In this private transaction, Jefferson doesn’t deny that the hotelier has the right to refuse service to a farmer; Jefferson simply rejects the establishment’s class bias. (The hotel didn’t ask if a supposed, ordinary farmer could pay, but instead rejected a prospective guest for reasons other than an ability to pay.)
Now consider a similar response from a public institution, one that rests on public funds, for limited and specific purposes, under public law.
What does it say if a public institution treats the farmer differently from the supposed town notable?
Via Jefferson’s Hotel Stay & Public Policy @ FREE WHITEWATER.