University of Virginia Library

2882. FARMERS, As citizens.—

Cultivators
of the earth are the most valuable
citizens. They are the most vigorous, the
most independent, the most virtuous, and they
are tied to their country, and wedded to its
liberty and interests, by the most lasting
bonds. As long, therefore, as they can find
employment in this line. I would not convert
them into mariners, artisans, or anything else.—
To John Jay. Washington ed. i, 403. Ford ed., iv, 88.
(P. 1785)