When Merry made a complaint about protocol to James Madison, Madison increased the offence by referring to it as "a matter of very little moment". Jefferson's hostility extended to Mrs. Merry, whom he called a "virago", though Aaron Burr greatly admired her.
Merry complained about protocol to James Madison, and Madison responded by downplaying it as insignificant. Jefferson was hostile towards Mrs. Merry, calling her a "fierce woman", while Aaron Burr found her admirable.