| To Dr. Edward Jenner |
Monticello, May 14, 1806 |
SIR, -- I have received a copy of the evidence
at large respecting the discovery of the vaccine inoculation
which you have been pleased to send me, and for which I return
you my thanks. Having been among the early converts, in this
part of the globe, to its efficiency, I took an early part in
recommending it to my countrymen. I avail myself of this occasion
of rendering you a portion of the tribute of gratitude due to
you from the whole human family. Medicine has never before produced
any single improvement of such utility. Harvey's discovery of
the circulation of the blood was a beautiful addition to our
knowledge of the animal economy, but on a review of the practice
of medicine before and since that epoch, I do not see any great
amelioration which has been derived from that discovery. You
have erased from the calendar of human afflictions one of its
greatest. Yours is the comfortable reflection that mankind can
never forget that you have lived. Future nations will know by
history only that the loathsome small-pox has existed and by
you has been extirpated.
Accept my fervent wishes for your health and
happiness and assurances of the greatest respect and consideration.
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