Note 80 — LAFAYETTE, THE FAITHFUL ONE.

Mémoires, Tom. II. p. 8. Madison, writing to Jefferson, under date of October 17, 1784, says: “The time I have lately passed with the Marquis has given me a pretty thorough insight into his character. With great natural frankness of temper he unites much address and very considerable talents. In his politics, he says his three hobby-horses are the alliance between France and the United States, the union of the latter, and the manumission of the slaves.” (Madison’s Letters and other Writings, Vol. I. p. 106.) Call these hobby-horses! They were three practical policies, having their foundation in everlasting principles. How many of our own statesmen saw as wisely?