Gouverneur Morris and Switzerland: Political Commentary from his Diary, 1794 & 1798.
Gouverneur Morris , Switzerland, Oct-Nov 1794. 20: Our Route consumd three Hours and we were detained twenty Minutes at the Swiss Post. As we leave les Rousses we ascend a little and soon pass the dividing Line between the Territories of the Two Nations. It is marked by a Stone Wall which a Pig can jump over any where. Indeed the Land is not worth an Enclosure and yet should the french Republic establish itself this Mountain Top may be dyed with human Blood to determine who shall possess it. As soon as we get into Switzerland I observe Enclosures of dry Wall such as we have in WestChester County. No stronger Proof could I think be exhibited of the Value which Land acquires from being under a free Government. 21 : This Morning I write and at twelve set off to see the Baron de Coppet alias M r . Necker . He is abroad and I am so pressed to remain untill his Return that I cannot avoid it altho I had ordered Dinner at Home and wished for many Reasons to return. He arrives a little whi