an oration never reached those who did not hear it.  This gave a great advantage to the writer.  The pamphlets of Otis and Thomas Paine were read by multitudes who never heard a word of the eloquence of Henry and Adams.  A high standard of taste had been created, and success in political dissertation was difficult, but, when obtained, it was of proportionate value, and the source of wide and permanent influence.  Jefferson found a function requiring much the same talents with that of the pamphleteer, but possessing some advantages over it.  The only means which the Continental Congress and the colonial legislatures had of communicating with their constituents and the mother country was by formal addresses.  These documents were arguments upon public questions, possessing the force which an argument always has when it is the expression of great numbers of minds.  An audience was certain.  At home they were sure to be read, and in England they attracted the attention of every one connected with affairs.  Jefferson’s literary talents were soon discovered.  One successful performance in the Virginia House of Delegates established a reputation which the Declaration of Independence has made immortal.

In every point of view, Jefferson is entitled to a high place in American literature.  As a mere rhetorician, he has few equals; as a political writer, not more than two or three.  An adherence to logical forms and the use of mathematical illustrations are his most noticeable faults.  But they are not found in his more elaborate performances.  He has the supreme merit of perfect clearness, naturalness, and grace of expression.  Though never eloquent, he sometimes rises to an earnest and dignified declamation.  Not infrequently he has achieved the highest success, and clothed valuable thought in language so appropriate, that the phrases have passed into the national vocabulary and become popular catchwords.  His first inaugural address contains more of those expressions which are daily heard in our political discussions than any other American composition.  There has been some speculation as to how it was possible for a gentleman, with no other discipline than that afforded by a colonial establishment, to obtain a mastery over so difficult an art.  There is little reason for surprise.  Jefferson’s training had been good; he was familiar with the best models; above all, Nature had given him the qualities which, with the requisite knowledge, insure literary success,—­good sense, good taste, and an ear sensitive to the melody of prose.

We do not propose to follow Jefferson throughout his political career.  As to his Revolutionary services there is little difference of opinion.  His course during the administrations of Washington and Adams has given occasion to most of the criticism which he has encountered.  We will direct our attention chiefly to that period of his life.  He appeared then as the leader of a party which was intent upon carrying certain principles into operation, and for a comprehension of his conduct an examination of those principles is necessary.