14 

 THOMAS JEFFERSON October 4, 1795. 



We have in the following letter an interesting discussion of 

 lucerne, clover, chiccory, buckwheat, peas, potatoes, and the 

 winter vetch, all from the standpoint of manures. 



It is pleasant to reflect upon the fact that two such promi 

 nent statesmen as Washington and Jefferson, though differ 

 ing radically on many political and social questions, had the 

 same hobby while at home, that of agriculture. Certainly 

 if they found it an inspiring and restful occupation, it ought 

 not to be beneath the dignity of the American citizen today 

 to engage in such an avocation. We are also tempted to re 

 mark that the farmers of today are following more nearly in 

 the foot-steps of Washington and Jefferson than are some of 

 the politicians of today. 



TO THOMAS JEFFERSON 



Mount Vernon, 4 October, 1795. 

 Dear Sir, 



Your letter of the 12th ultimo, after travelling to Phila 

 delphia and back again, was received by me at this place the 

 1st instant. The letter from Madame de Chastellux to me is 

 short, referring to the one she has written to you for par 

 ticulars respecting herself and infant son. Her application 

 to me is unquestionably misplaced, and to Congress it would 

 certainly be unavailing ; as the Chevalier de Chastellux s pre 

 tensions (on which hers must be founded) to any allowance 

 from this country were no greater than that of any and 

 every other officer of the French army, who served in America 



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