The Madisonian. [volume] (Washington City [i.e. Washington, D.C.]) 1837-1845, 1837-08-16

and Interesting as that OF Jefferson and Ma
Olson. Intimately associated for fifty years
in the service Of their country, their cordali-
~ never knew the slighes, abatement or in
terruption. Their friendship was ennobled
by a common love Of country, and cemented
by pervading congeniality Of principle.
Idsm sentre de Republica, was recognized by
the ancients as one Of the justest and most
legitimate foundations of mutual esteem and
attachment. 1t was truly so with jefferson
and Madison. Their friendship, founded on
common views Of the good Of their country.
and Of the great principles Of human liberty,
partook more of the character of patriotism
and philanthropy, than OF personal attach
ment. How touching is Mr. Jefierson's allu-
sion to it in the last letter he ever addressed
to Mr.. Madison.
'sThe friendship which has subsistcd be-
tween us" he says" now half century, and
the harmony of our political principles and
pursuits, have been sources Of constant hap
piness TO me through that long period. 1t
has been great solace to me to believe that
you are engaged in .vindicating to posterily
the course we have pursued for preserving TO
them, in all their purity, the blessings of self
government, which we had assisted too, in
acquiring for them. If ever the earth has
beheld system of administration conducted
with single and steadfast eye to the general
interest and happiness Of those committed to
it, one which, protected by truth, can never
know reproach, it is that to which our lives
have been devoted" We cannot forbear to
add the beautiful tribute, which Mr. jefferson,
in the memoirs of his own life, pays to the
merits Of his friend and co-patriot. After
tracing MIR. Madison's public life through the
Legislature Of Virginia, the Congress of tho
| confederation, the Federal convention, &C,
and speaking of the distinction he,won in all
these fields of his lahors, he says" With
these ,consummate powers, were united pure
and spotless virtue, which no calumny has
ever dared to sully. OF the powers and po-
lish Of his pen, and of the wisdom of his ad-
ministration in the highest office Of the nation.
need say nothing. They have spoken, and
will forever speak for themselves"
| Such is 'thc Statesman, rich in his own
merits, rich in the praises of his illustrious
! friend. and yet richer in the love and admira-
ton of his country, whose name we have as
sumed for our banner. As the founder and
vindicator of our glorious constitutions as the
chief magistrate who presided over the desii-
MES of his country in peace and in war, as
the Statesman whose private virtues rivaled
and set off his public usefulness and wisdom,
his principles and his character will exert
an enduring influence on the happiness of his
country, as his name shall pass with incrcas-
ing lus,re, from generation to generation of
his countrymen. 1t is under the t1telary au-
spices of this great name, and by the steady
light of the principles and virtues which con-
secraie and endear it, that we shall endeavor
to steer our course over the stormy ocean up-
on which we. have ventured, in the humble.
hope of rendering some service to our coun-
try, at period of difficulty and danger, which
demands the best exerlions of all her sons.