Thomas Jefferson actually said...

"The instrument is now submitted to the Senate, with a request of their advice and consent as to its ratification."

"This having been lately claimed by a private individual, the city opposed the claim on a supposed legal title in itself."

"Until this question can be decided under legislative authority, measures have been taken according to law to prevent any change in the state of things and to keep the grounds clear of intruders."

"It has been adjudged that the legal title was not in the city."