As the storm is now subsiding and the horizon becoming serene, it is pleasant to consider the phenomenon with attention.  We can no longer say there is nothing new under the sun.  For this whole chapter in the history of man is new.  The great extent of our republic is new.  Its sparse habitation is new.  The mighty wave of public opinion which has rolled over it is new.  But the most pleasing novelty is, its so quietly subsiding over such an extent of surface to its true level again.  The order and good sense displayed in this recovery from delusion, and in the momentous crisis which lately arose, really bespeak a strength of character in our nation which augurs well for the duration of our republic:  and I am much better satisfied now of its stability, than I was before it was tried, I have been above all things solaced by the prospect which opened on us, in the event of a non-election of a President; in which case, the federal government would have been in the situation of a clock or watch run down.  There was no idea of force, nor of any occasion for it.  A convention, invited by the republican members of Congress with the virtual President and Vice-President, would have been on the ground in eight weeks, would have repaired the constitution where it was defective, and wound it up again.  This peaceable and legitimate resource, to which we are in the habit of implicit obedience, superseding all appeal to force, and being always within our reach, shows a precious principle of self-preservation in our composition, till a change of circumstances shall take place, which is not within prospect at any definite period.

But I have got into a long disquisition on politics when I only meant to express my sympathy in the state of your health, and to tender you all the affections of public and private hospitality.  I should be very happy indeed to see you here.  I leave this about the 30th instant, to return about the 25th of April.  If you do not leave Philadelphia before that, a little excursion hither would help your health.  I should be much gratified with the possession of a guest I so much esteem, and should claim a right to lodge you, should you make such an excursion.

Accept the homage of my high consideration and respect, and assurances of affectionate attachment.

Th:  Jefferson.

LETTER CCLXXX.—­TO MOSES ROBINSON, March 23,1801

TO MOSES ROBINSON.

Washington, March 23,1801.

Dear Sir,

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of the 3rd instant, and to thank you for the friendly expressions it contains.  I entertain real hope that the whole body of your fellow-citizens (many of whom had been carried away by the X. Y. Z. business) will shortly be consolidated in the same sentiments.  When they examine the real principles of both parties, I think they will find little to differ about.  I know, indeed, that there are some of their leaders