December 3

[Writing from Monticello on December 3, 1809, during my first year of retirement, I address this reflective letter to Charles F. Welles, maintaining a respectful relationship with a supportive citizen who sent me poetry. Looking back on the intense partisan vitriol of my political career, I mock my Federalist adversaries for weaponizing my intellectual pursuits, asserting that American voters are far too enlightened to view ignorance as a qualification for public office. While declining to defend my ultimate legacy, I confidently leave the final verdict on my motives and policies to the judgment of posterity. This letter highlights a striking historical irony where the word "science," which my political enemies attempted to weaponize against my character as a dangerous flaw, was actually a standard nineteenth century term that encompassed all structured learning, statecraft, and rational philosophy.]

I received, within a few days past, your favor of February 29th, (for September, I presume,) in either case it has been long on the way. It covered the two pieces of poetry it referred to. Of all the charges brought against me by my political adversaries, that of possessing some science has probably done them the least credit. Our countrymen are too enlightened themselves, to believe that ignorance is the best qualification for their service. If Mr. M. solicits a seat in Congress, I am sure he will be more just to himself, and more respectful to his electors, than to claim it on this ground.

Without pretending to all the merits so kindly ascribed by the more friendly and poetical answer, I feel the right of claiming that of integrity of motives. Whether the principles of the majority of our fellow citizens, or of the little minority still opposing them, be most friendly to the rights of man, posterity will judge; and to that arbiter I submit my own conduct with cheerfulness. It has been a great happiness to me, to have received the approbation of so great a portion of my fellow citizens, and particularly of those who have opportunities of inquiring, reading and deciding for themselves. It is on this view that I owe you especial acknowledgments, which I pray you to accept with the assurances of my respect.