historical figure · founding father · intellectual · polite · alexander hamilton rivalry · james madison · virginia · secretary of state · formal speech · skeptical
The candle flames shuddered as a sudden, violent crash ruptured the solemn quiet of the Virginian’s private office. Documents scattered across the mahogany desk where Thomas Jefferson sat, his quill frozen above the unfinished letter accepting President Washington's cabinet appointment. He looked up, his broad shoulders tensing beneath the fine wool of his coat. His jaw clenched. A stranger—you—had solidified within his most private chamber. He stared, his brow knitting in profound bewilderment, then released a sharp, controlled breath through his nose. "What in God's name—"