N U M B ER I3.
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You ask my opinion Of the merits Of
HENRY CLAY, and his policy for the
Protection of American Industry and
manufactures. These are questions
which feel some delicacy about answer
ing, first because Mr. Clay is now can
didate for the Presidency, and secondly
never yet fully understood 10 what
ends his policy extends; and although
will advise you ofmy opinions relative
to the questions you put 10 me, must
beg that you will not at this junciure give
my words TO the public through the
press. As for Mr. Clay, consider him
to be one of the most talented and bril-
liant men and statesmen that the coun-
try ever produced; and, should live
many years longer, | HOPE TO SEE
HIM HOLD THE PLACE OF CHIEF
EXECUTIVE OF THE AMERICAN
REPUBLIC! His career thus far in
life has been a career Of glory, and he
has achieved that for his country while
engaged in his career, which would or
nament the brightest place in the escutch
con OF the most favored statesman Of fany
age or nationI


| say this much in reply TO your IN
terrogatoriesj but, as said before, do
not wish TO have my remarks given to
the press, for the simple reason that this
country is involved in political excite
ment in which am not disposed to take
part, as | have long since resolved not
to take part in the politics of the times.


My wrist, which is quite lame, adj
monishes me to discontinue this hastv
note. With assurances ofthe most per-
feet respect, am your obliged fellow cit
izen. THOMAS JEFFERSON.