11

ble it is to provide by the contribution of the State, (which will fall
lightly upon individuals), for the support of the more important
Institutions of learning, because otherwise, the number of persons
who can afford the expense of liberal education being smaller
than usual, {both for the} existence of the insti-
tutions, would be jeoparded, and learning would fatally decline.
{and for that learning may not}

Summary of the Views and Considerations already Stated.

The views and considerations already Stated, may
then be summed up:

1. The scheme of public Education proposed by Mr Jeffer-
son in 1779, kept steadily in view by him thenceforward
throughout his eventful life, and often developed to his friends,
contemplated always, primary instruction, and an Universi-
ty as inseparable elements. Even amidst the throes incident
to the birth of the University, he was not unmindful of that "train
of learning" which had been so anxiously commended by him to
the cherishing nurture of his countrymen. 'Jeff. & Cabell' Corresp. 102,
185, 434. Let it not be said therefore, that the University was con-
ceived, or brought forth in a spirit of hostility to the education of
the poor!

2. The plan of the University was desired with reference to the
impartment of the highest attainments in every branch of use-
ful knowledge, anticipated by many years, the demand for
schools of applied science amongst us, & was organized did-
tinctly and expressly, with a view to {the} gradual expansion &
development by the introduction, indefinitely such schools
as occasion, and the exigencies of society might justify & require
thus proving the extraordinary foresight of its founder, and thereby
inviting an unwavering confidence in the adaptation of the
Seminary to meet all demands upon it.