Springs Set in Motion

Abstract This chapter describes the nature of Short’s employment as Jefferson’s secretary in France. It describes collaborations in the field of cultural diplomacy. It analyzes the consequences for his relationship with Jefferson and his daughters of Short’s desire to be his own man by living away from the official American residence. It introduces Jefferson’s ambivalent feelings toward the man he had brought with him to France. It argues that, while in France, Short acquired a knowledge of the private Jefferson, through his observation of Jefferson’s affair with Maria Cosway and his growing interest in Sally Hemings, unique among Jefferson’s circle of male acquaintances. It discusses the implications of Jefferson’s knowledge of Short’s interest in Patsy Jefferson and Lilite Royer, the daughter of the family with whom he lodged.