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THE PAPERS OF THOMAS JEFFERSON JAMES P. Mc CLURE
general editor
T H E PA P E R S O F
Thomas Jefferson Volume 44 1 July to 10 November 1804 JAMES P. Mc CLURE , EDITOR
martha j. king, senior editor tom downey and w. bland whitley, associate editors andrew j. b. fagal and merry ellen scofield, assistant editors linny schenck, editorial associate alison e. dolbier, research associate
princeton and oxford princeton university press 2019
Copyright © 2019 by Princeton University Press Published by Princeton University Press, 41 William Street, Princeton, New Jersey 08540 In The United Kingdom: Princeton University Press, 6 Oxford Street, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1TR All Rights Reserved ISBN 9780691194370 Library of Congress Number: 50-7486 This book has been composed in Monticello Princeton University Press books are printed on acid-free paper and meet the guidelines for permanence and durability of the Committee on Production Guidelines for Book Longevity of the Council on Library Resources
Printed in the United States of America
dedicated to the memory of ADOLPH S. OCHS publisher of the new york times 1896-1935
who by the example of a responsible press enlarged and fortified the jeffersonian concept of a free press
ADVISORY COMMITTEE DAVID A. BELL
JAN ELLEN LEWIS
LESLIE GREENE BOWMAN
J. JEFFERSON LOONEY
ANDREW BURSTEIN
JAMES M. McPHERSON
JAMES A. DUN
ROBERT C. RITCHIE
CHRISTOPHER L. EISGRUBER
SARAH RIVETT
ANNETTE GORDON-REED
DANIEL T. RODGERS
HENDRIK HARTOG
JACK ROSENTHAL
CHRISTIE HENRY
HERBERT E. SLOAN
RONALD HOFFMAN
ALAN TAYLOR
ANNE E. JARVIS
KEITH A. WAILOO
WILLIAM C. JORDAN
SEAN WILENTZ
STANLEY N. KATZ
GORDON S. WOOD
THOMAS H. KEAN
CONSULTANTS FRANÇOIS P. RIGOLOT and CAROL RIGOLOT, Consultants in French SIMONE MARCHESI, Consultant in Italian VALERIA LÓPEZ FADUL, Consultant in Spanish
SUPPORTERS This edition was made possible by an initial grant of $200,000 from the New York Times Company to Princeton University. Contributions from many foundations and individuals have sustained the endeavor since then. For their unprecedented generous support, we are also indebted to the Princeton University History Department and Christopher L. Eisgruber, president of the university. The Packard Humanities Institute (through Founding Fathers Papers, Inc.), the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the National Historical Publications and Records Commission have been crucial to progress on the edition. Support has come from the Florence Gould Foundation, the National Trust for the Humanities and the Cinco Hermanos Fund, the New York Times Company Foundation, the Dyson Foundation, the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, and the Pew Charitable Trusts. Other contributors have been the Ford Foundation, the Lyn and Norman Lear Foundation, the Lucius N. Littauer Foundation, the Charlotte Palmer Phillips Foundation, the L. J. Skaggs and Mary C. Skaggs Foundation, the John Ben Snow Memorial Trust, Time, Inc., Robert C. Baron, B. Batmanghelidj, David K. E. Bruce, and James Russell Wiggins. Benefactions from a greatly expanded roster of dedicated individuals have underwritten the volumes: Sara and James Adler, Helen and Peter Bing, Diane and John Cooke, Judy and Carl Ferenbach III, Mary-Love and William Harman, Frederick P. and Mary Buford Hitz, Governor Thomas H. Kean, Ruth and Sidney Lapidus, Lisa and Willem Mesdag, Tim and Lisa Robertson, Ann and Andrew C. Rose, Sara Lee and Axel Schupf, the Sulzberger family through the Hillandale Foundation, Richard W. Thaler, Tad and Sue Thompson, the Wendt Family Charitable Foundation, and Susan and John O. Wynne. For their vision and extraordinary efforts to provide for this edition, we owe special thanks to John S. Dyson, Governor Kean, the late H. F. Lenfest and the Lenfest Foundation, Rebecca Rimel, and Jack Rosenthal.
FOREWORD
B
ellechasse? Poydras? Sauvé? Derbigny, Destréhan, Pollock? Dow, Prevost, Caisergues? Would Boré be loyal? Would Jones? Could Williams learn French? On the first day of July 1804, Jefferson received annotated lists from General James Wilkinson that contained information from two sources about more than 50 prominent men of Louisiana. Several of those names, and others, would be on the president’s mind through the period covered by this volume. He needed to make appointments to offices in Orleans Territory, which was to take form on 1 October. This would require choosing a governor, a secretary, three justices for a superior court, one judge for a district court, a district attorney, and a marshal. Naming a governor presented no difficulty, as Jefferson intended to appoint William Claiborne, the governor of Mississippi Territory who had interim charge over Louisiana. And although he did not know initially if they would all agree to serve, Jefferson had lawyers and judges in mind for the judicial and district attorney’s places. In addition to those positions, however, the act of Congress to establish Orleans Territory called for the appointment of a legislative council of “thirteen of the most fit and discreet persons of the territory.” Each must be a property owner and must have resided in Louisiana for at least a year (U.S. Statutes at Large, 2:284). Jefferson wanted to make the council approximately half “French” and half “American,” appointing six members from the francophone Creole population and seven who were originally from the United States. He considered it “an object of considerable attention to chuse French who speak the American language, & Americans who speak the French” (see his letter to Claiborne at 30 August). A prospective officer’s inability to communicate in both would not in itself be “an absolute exclusion” from consideration. Jefferson wished, however, for the French language and what he chose to call “the American language” to have equal footing “as the language of the territory.” Adding even more variables to his selection process, he wanted the legislative council to represent different parts of the territory and to include merchants as well as planters. The marshal’s job he thought should go to a Creole. He knew practically nothing about individuals in Louisiana who might meet the requirements. He must depend on information from others. Meanwhile, the calendar advanced. By mid-August, Jefferson thought that he had most of the judicial seats and the district attorney’s position lined up, and most names for the council. Then he saw vii
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dispatches sent by Claiborne from New Orleans early in July reporting that a delegation was on its way to Washington with a memorial to Congress from Louisianians dissatisfied with the terms of the act creating Orleans Territory. He hesitated, for one of the people associated with the protest was Jean Étienne Boré, whom Jefferson had identified as a possible choice for a seat on the legislative council. He made his decision—but not, as might have been expected, to scratch Boré from the list. Instead, he made Boré a definite, rather than a tentative, choice. As he wrote to Claiborne on 30 August, “mr Boré’s protest against an act of the legislature, is such a proceeding as our law would deem more than disrespectful. yet knowing that it is not so viewed by a Frenchman, considering his integrity, his agricultural merits, the interests he has at stake, & his zeal for liberty, I consider it proper to name him absolutely as a member.” He needed more information to complete the appointments, but if it was to take four to six weeks for letters to go either way by post between New Orleans and Washington, time was running out. Having waited “almost to the 12th. hour,” he had to leave some final decisions to Claiborne. Naming Julien Poydras and Joseph Deville de Goutin Bellechasse in addition to Boré for the French part of the council, Jefferson identified five others as prospects for the remaining three seats for that group. For the “American” side, he named six individuals as certain, plus two others from whom Claiborne was to pick one for the seventh seat. Jefferson sent Claiborne blank commissions bearing his signature, Secretary of State Madison’s countersignature, and the seal of the United States, leaving the names to be filled in. On 6 November, when he received a letter written by Claiborne on 5 October, Jefferson learned the results. Claiborne informed the president that he had declined to fill in the names of three of the Creoles from Jefferson’s list of five because they were associated with the memorial to Congress. One of Jefferson’s picks for the American group was, Claiborne reported, actually a French speaker with no knowledge of English, so Claiborne made his own substitution. He did the same for the marshal’s office, believing that none of the possibilities named by the president “would fill that office with propriety.” Orleans Territory had come into existence the beginning of October, and Claiborne’s alterations to Jefferson’s plans would have to stand. Disease contributed yet another variable to the challenge of filling offices in the lower Mississippi Valley. Hore Browse Trist, the collector of customs at New Orleans and the son of Jefferson’s good friend Elizabeth House Trist, died of yellow fever near the end of August. He viii
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had been there less than a year, and his death raised concerns about how his family would be supported. Claiborne’s private secretary, Joseph Briggs, died in mid-September. When Claiborne wrote to Jefferson on 5 October, it was only days since yellow fever had claimed the lives of his young daughter and, after a prolonged illness, his wife. Claiborne himself had the fever earlier in the season. “I am represented as the only American who has yet recovered,” he wrote to Jefferson on 30 August. Relations with the neighboring nation, Spain, were marked by tension over the establishment of a Mobile customs collection district, part of a larger issue involving access to and from the Gulf of Mexico; over the bounds of Louisiana and interactions in those zones; over claims to West Florida; and over U.S. claims stemming from captures of merchant ships. The administration was hobbled by an apparent breakdown of talks between the U.S. minister to Spain, Charles Pinckney, and the Spanish government, compounded by a lack of information from Pinckney. Amid that uncertainty, Spanish envoy Carlos Martínez de Irujo declared a wish to visit Virginia and asked to call on the president at Monticello. Admitting that protocol called for a foreign envoy to deal with the secretary of state, Irujo indicated that “an extreme susceptibility” on Madison’s part—to which the diplomat quickly confessed himself subject as well—would impair communication between them. Jefferson knew from William Jackson of Philadelphia that Irujo was endeavoring to influence public opinion through American newspapers (and threatening that his king could send formidable naval flotillas simultaneously to the mouth of the Mississippi, Chesapeake Bay, and the coast off New York City). Nonetheless, the president received Irujo at Monticello, where the diplomat gave him copies of a long exchange of notes between Pinckney and Spain’s foreign minister, Pedro Cevallos, documenting the failure of the discussions. By fall, Jefferson considered asking Congress for a limitedterm authorization to raise a volunteer military force if it should be needed to protect U.S. interests against Spain. Relationships with the other European powers were hardly smoother. After the infant son of French minister Louis André Pichon and his wife, Émilie Brongniart Pichon, died in July, they were “inconsoleable,” as Jefferson wrote to his daughter, and stayed away from Washington for an extended period. Neither that absence nor Pichon’s resolve to return to France within a year kept the diplomat from lodging strong complaints about the impunity with which the British fleet seemed in effect to be blockading the American coast. Indeed, while home at Monticello, Jefferson used James Cheetham’s newspaper, the ix
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American Citizen, to monitor the Royal Navy’s actions in and near New York harbor. On 16 September he sent clippings to the attorney general, asking him to consult official sources and prepare “a succinct statement” of cases of British “aggressions.” He believed that the nation must act with “sincere friendship & impartiality” toward both Britain and France to show them that “unjust conduct” by one country could result in an alliance of the United States with the other (to Madison, 15 August). He lamented to the secretary of the navy that the new gunboats were still under construction, for if they had been available he would have sent them to drive all foreign warships away from New York. Incidents in which officers of a French privateer and a British warship refused to allow civil authorities to serve writs or court orders spurred him, in October as the time for Congress to convene drew nearer, to take the step of drafting an “Act for the more effectual preservation of the peace in the harbors and waters of the US. & on board vessels” (in this volume at 22 October). The bill, which in modified form became law in March 1805, authorized a federal judge or the governor of a state to call on U.S. military or naval assistance to carry out court orders and enabled the president to detain or evict foreign armed ships. Around the same time in October, in response to protests from France and with a strong desire to protect the nation’s status as a neutral country, Jefferson drafted another bill, this one to prevent armed merchant vessels from leaving U.S. ports for the West Indies, where trade with Haiti would be their object (Bill to Regulate the Clearance of Armed Vessels, at 23 October). That bill also became law, with modifications, near the end of the congressional session. In both cases the president circulated the draft bills among the cabinet secretaries and paid heed to their comments. With international tensions close at hand on the country’s very perimeters, the United States also continued in armed conflict with Tripoli on the other side of the Atlantic. Earlier in the year Jefferson feared that intervention by Russia or France would effect the release of the crew of the Philadelphia and give the appearance of sealing the dependence of the United States on the powers of Europe. That did not happen, and in August Commodore Edward Preble brought the forces of a temporarily strengthened U.S. Mediterranean squadron to bear against Tripoli. Naval attacks on the city, its harbor fortifications, and the Tripolitan fleet over several weeks failed to bring the pasha, Yusuf Qaramanli, to terms, however, and the Philadelphia’s sailors and officers remained in captivity. With Tunis, also, Jefferson took a bellicose stance. Responding to information that Tunis was preparing to x
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go to war against American commercial ships, he noted in his annual message to Congress on 8 November that “the mutual advantages of peace make that the best interest of both” nations. Yet he queried whether “those who expect us to calculate whether a compliance with unjust demands will not cost us less than a war” would apply the same “calculation” to the other side by asking Tunis “whether to retire from unjust demands will not cost them less than a war.” On 16 July, the president told a delegation of Osage leaders that “we are all now of one family, born in the same land, & bound to live as brothers.” The Osages, from the far side of the Mississippi River, had been encouraged to travel to Washington by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and were escorted by Pierre Chouteau, member of an influential St. Louis trading family. Jefferson was diplomatically affirming good relations with a powerful nation from upper Louisiana. For native peoples still residing on the eastern side of the Mississippi, he privately took a different tone. In a memorandum for Secretary of War Henry Dearborn on 20 October, he wrote of the Choctaws that “we should lose no time, but strike while they are in their present humour & get what we can.” He identified areas west of the Mississippi that in his view had “no Indian title,” where the Choctaws, the Chickasaws, the Creeks, and the Cherokees could be relocated. He calculated that by assuming the Choctaws’ debts to traders and giving an annuity of $6,000, the United States could acquire title to 10 million acres of land for 1½ cents an acre. On 9 November, he instructed Dearborn that the U.S. government could not become involved in a dispute within the Creeks’ polity, having no right “to controul them, or intermeddle with their interior government.” He went on to state, however, that “the right we have acquired of preventing the Indians on this side the Missisipi from crossing that river, is a lever which we may use against them with immense effect. we should risk a war if necessary to maintain that right.” In politics, Jefferson considered the division between the two primary parties to be firmly established and clear. He wrote to Thomas McKean on 19 August that “after the approbation of the whigs, the disapprobation of the Tories is the rock of my greatest confidence.” If his diehard opponents should ever approve “any measure of mine (which has never yet happened) I should take it under severe reconsideration, on a strong presumption of it’s being wrong.” When he began his systematic record of President’s House dinners in the fall of 1804, he started by listing the members of the House of Representatives and placing each name in one of two columns—one for his party, the other for Federalists. He maintained that division in the list in xi
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which he recorded the dates of dinners attended by individual House and Senate members. There he placed Federalists in the lower part of the last column, which reflects the fact that overall, they were guests at his table during the congressional session fewer times than most Republicans were (see Appendix ii, Lists 1 and 2). In contrast to what he might write to an ally such as McKean, in letters to Abigail Adams and former Maryland governor John F. Mercer the line between the parties was not so bright, the division not so deep and unbridgeable. To them he asserted that if political differences had ever caused a breach in one of his friendships, the separation was on the other person’s initiative and not of his own doing. He could maintain cordial relations with someone of opposing political views, he said, by “avoiding to speak on politics, as with a quaker or catholic I would avoid speaking on religion” (to Mercer, 9 October). Adams and Mercer would have none of that. Each felt that Jefferson had severed a friendly relationship over politics. One’s “Heart is long, very long in receiving the conviction that is forced upon it by reason,” Adams observed as she broke off correspondence with him on 25 October. “Affection still lingers in the Bosom, even after esteem has taken its flight.” Perhaps because Jefferson’s party was so firmly ascendant, Alexander Hamilton’s death in July makes surprisingly little appearance in the documents in this volume. The only comment by Jefferson was a spare and dry postscript to a letter to his daughter Martha on 17 July. Hamilton had ceased to be much of a political threat to Jefferson well before the duel with Aaron Burr. Nor does Burr make much of an appearance in these pages. His presence is seen the most in the dinner guest records, where Jefferson listed the vice president as a member of the Senate and recorded him coming to dinner five times during the session of Congress. From the latter part of July to the end of September, the president was at Monticello. As was his practice, he used the mails to stay in communication with the heads of the executive departments while he looked after his farming operations and the never-ceasing improvements and alterations to the main house, for which he needed iron and glass to his specifications from Philadelphia and Boston. When Ferdinando Fairfax, strapped for money, wrote him in September, he answered that “no man is less in condition to aid his friends pecuniarily than myself. I have always endeavored so to live as just to make both ends meet; but imperfect calculations disappoint that endeavor, and occasion deficiencies which accumulating, keep me always under difficulties” (13 September). xii
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In Washington in November, at the close of his annual message Jefferson urged Congress to “take a broader view of the field of Legislation,” to consider what might be needed to assist “the great interests of agriculture, manufactures, commerce, or navigation” or to improve the laws or government, and “whether any thing can be done to advance the general good.” On a more mundane level, he reported that “the necessary Officers for the territory of Orleans were appointed in due time to commence the exercise of their functions on the 1st day of October.” The next day, he sent to the Senate for confirmation several names of appointments made during the recess. Among them was one for John Armstrong of New York to succeed Robert R. Livingston as U.S. minister to France. Armstrong had sailed for Europe in September. The letter of credence and commission that he carried had blanks for the names of the nation of his destination and its ruler. Amid other uncertainties in the international realm, the U.S. government had not received official notice of the proper titles by which Napoleon and his empire should be addressed.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS any individuals have given the Editors the benefit of their aid M in the preparation of this volume, and we offer them our thanks. At Princeton, we are grateful to Keith A. Wailoo, Judith Hanson,
and Debora Macy in the Department of History; in the libraries, Anne E. Jarvis, Colleen M. Burlingham, and Deborah T. Paparone, and for easing our way into new office space, Maria DiFalco-Orofino, Tracy Mincher Hall, Peggy Kehrer, and Elaine Russian, with handson assistance from Stacy Snyder and Chris Dugan and his crew; in the Office of the Dean of the Faculty, Associate Dean Karen B. Haskin; Tim Aultom, Steven Semenuk, and Angela Ward in the Office of the Vice President for Finance and Treasurer; Mona Hall, Maureen Thompson-Siegel, and Barbara Zlotnik (now retired) in the Office of Research and Project Administration; and Helen Hardy in University Advancement. Jason Bush and Paul Hayslett of IDM skillfully provide technical support. Our collaborative partners at Princeton University Press have our deepest admiration and appreciation, including Christie Henry, Eric Crahan, and Lauren Lepow; we rely on the remarkable contributions of Carmina Alvarez-Gaffin, Leslie Flis, Meghan Kanabay, Dimitri Karetnikov, Neil Litt, and Erin Suydam. At the University of Virginia Press, we are indebted to Mark Saunders and David Sewell. For assistance with language translations, we thank William C. Jordan, Helmut Reimitz, and Anthony Grafton. Graduate student Nathan Ashe and undergraduates Brillian Bao, Gabriel Lipkowitz, and Abbie Minard have performed a variety of tasks. We owe much to the skill of Gretchen Oberfranc in reading each volume. We are indebted to Lucia C. Stanton for sharing her wisdom and knowledge and to Alfred L. Bush for assistance, particularly with our illustrations. Lisa Ferrante Perrone of Bucknell University pointed us to Philip Mazzei manuscripts in Italy. For special assistance on this volume, we appreciate the help of Mary Lou Eichhorn at the Historic New Orleans Collection and, for illustrations, Tabitha Corradi and John McKee of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, Kay Peterson of the Smithsonian Institution, Charina Castillo and Robert Delap of the New-York Historical Society, Terese Austin of the William L. Clements Library, and Sabina Beauchard of the Massachusetts Historical Society. We wish to thank Darrell Meadows and Christopher Eck of the National Historical Publications and Records Commission; Jason Boffetti and Lydia Medici of the National Endowment for the Humanities; Julie Miller, Jeffrey Flannery, xv
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and their colleagues in the Manuscript Division of the Library of Congress; Peter Drummey, Anna Clutterbuck-Cook, Elaine Heavey, and Nancy Heywood of the Massachusetts Historical Society; Anna Berkes and Endrina Tay in the library of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation at Monticello; Molly Kodner of the Missouri History Museum Library and Research Center; Nicole Bouché, Christina Deane, and Regina Rush at the University of Virginia Library; Jay Gaidmore of Swem Library at the College of William and Mary; John Deal and Brent Tarter of the Library of Virginia; Paige Newman of the Virginia Historical Society; Charles M. Harris of the Papers of William Thornton; the staffs of the American Philosophical Society, the Huntington Library, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, the NewYork Historical Society, and the American Antiquarian Society; and our friends and fellow editors at the Thomas Jefferson Retirement Series at Monticello, the Adams Papers at the Massachusetts Historical Society, the Papers of James Madison and the Papers of George Washington at the University of Virginia, the Papers of Benjamin Franklin at Yale University, and the James Monroe Papers at the University of Mary Washington. The Advisory Committee bids farewell to Peter Dougherty and welcomes Christie Henry as his successor at Princeton University Press. We welcome Keith Wailoo, chair of the Department of History, and Anne Jarvis, Robert H. Taylor 1930 University Librarian at Princeton, to the committee. The Advisory Committee has lost three valued members and friends: Jan Ellen Lewis, Ronald Hoffman, and Jack Rosenthal. The publication in 1983 of Jan’s The Pursuit of Happiness: Family and Values in Jefferson’s Virginia altered the landscape of Jefferson studies, and she continued to play a critical role in the field. Ron’s contributions to the profession included a distinguished tenure as director of the Omohundro Institute of Early American History and Culture and scholarly works on Maryland, the American Revolution, and the Carroll family. Jack, a Pulitzer Prize-winning editorial writer and former public official, joined the Advisory Committee during his time as president of the New York Times Company Foundation, continuing a connection that dates to the origins of this edition. We remember Jan, Ron, and Jack with fondness and gratitude.
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EDITORIAL METHOD A N D A P PA R AT U S 1. RENDERING THE TEXT
Julian P. Boyd eloquently set forth a comprehensive editorial policy in Volume 1 of The Papers of Thomas Jefferson. Adopting what he described as a “middle course” for rendering eighteenth-century handwritten materials into print, Boyd set the standards for modern historical editing. His successors, Charles T. Cullen and John Catanzariti, reaffirmed Boyd’s high standards. At the same time, they made changes in textual policy and editorial apparatus as they deemed appropriate. For Boyd’s policy and subsequent modifications to it, readers are encouraged to consult Vol. 1:xxix-xxxviii; Vol. 22:vii-xi; and Vol. 24:vii-viii. The revised, more literal textual method, which appeared for the first time in Volume 30, adheres to the following guidelines: Abbreviations will be retained as written. Where the meaning is sufficiently unclear to require editorial intervention, the expansion will be given in the explanatory annotation. Capitalization will follow the usage of the writer. Because the line between uppercase and lowercase letters can be a very fine and fluctuating one, when it is impossible to make an absolute determination of the author’s intention, we will adopt modern usage. Jefferson rarely began his sentences with an uppercase letter, and we conform to his usage. Punctuation will be retained as written and double marks of punctuation, such as a period followed by a dash, will be allowed to stand. Misspellings or so-called slips of the pen will be allowed to stand or will be recorded in a subjoined textual note. English translations or translation summaries will be supplied for foreign-language documents. In some instances, when documents are lengthy and not especially pertinent to Jefferson’s concerns or if our edition’s typography cannot adequately represent the script of a language, we will provide only a summary in English. In most cases we will print in full the text in its original language and also provide a full English translation. If a contemporary translation that Jefferson made or would have used is extant, we may print it in lieu of a modern translation. Our own translations are designed to provide a basic readable English text for the modern user rather than to preserve all aspects of the original diction and language. xvii
E D I T O R I A L M E T H O D A N D A P PA R AT U S 2. TEXTUAL DEVICES
The following devices are employed throughout the work to clarify the presentation of the text. [. . .] [ ] [roman] [italic]
Text missing and not conjecturable. Number or part of a number missing or illegible. Conjectural reading for missing or illegible matter. A question mark follows when the reading is doubtful. Editorial comment inserted in the text. Matter deleted in the MS but restored in our text. 3. DESCRIPTIVE SYMBOLS
The following symbols are employed throughout the work to describe the various kinds of manuscript originals. When a series of versions is recorded, the first to be recorded is the version used for the printed text. Dft Dupl MS N PoC PrC RC SC Tripl
draft (usually a composition or rough draft; later drafts, when identifiable as such, are designated “2d Dft,” &c.) duplicate manuscript (arbitrarily applied to most documents other than letters) note, notes (memoranda, fragments, &c.) polygraph copy press copy recipient’s copy stylograph copy triplicate
All manuscripts of the above types are assumed to be in the hand of the author of the document to which the descriptive symbol pertains. If not, that fact is stated. On the other hand, the following types of manuscripts are assumed not to be in the hand of the author, and exceptions will be noted: FC Lb Tr
file copy (applied to all contemporary copies retained by the author or his agents) letterbook (ordinarily used with FC and Tr to denote texts copied into bound volumes) transcript (applied to all contemporary and later copies except file copies; period of transcription, unless clear by implication, will be given when known) xviii
E D I T O R I A L M E T H O D A N D A P PA R AT U S 4. LOCATION SYMBOLS
The locations of documents printed in this edition from originals in private hands and from printed sources are recorded in self-explanatory form in the descriptive note following each document. The locations of documents printed from originals held by public and private institutions in the United States are recorded by means of the symbols used in the National Union Catalog in the Library of Congress; an explanation of how these symbols are formed is given in Vol. 1:xl. The symbols DLC and MHi by themselves stand for the collections of Jefferson Papers proper in these repositories; when texts are drawn from other collections held by these two institutions, the names of those collections will be added. Location symbols for documents held by institutions outside the United States are given in a subjoined list. CSmH CtNlCG CtWMHi CtY DLC DeGH L-M MBBS MH MHi MdHi MoSHi Ms-Ar NHi NN NNC NNPM NcU NjMoHP NjP PEL PHi PPAmP
The Huntington Library, San Marino, California United States Coast Guard Academy, New London, Connecticut Mattatuck Museum of the Mattatuck Historical Society, Waterbury, Connecticut Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut Library of Congress Hagley Museum, Greenville, Delaware Louisiana State Museum, New Orleans Bostonian Society (Jeremiah Colburn Autograph Collection on deposit MHi) Harvard University Library, Cambridge, Massachusetts Massachusetts Historical Society, Boston Maryland Historical Society, Baltimore Missouri History Museum Library and Research Center, St. Louis Mississippi Department of Archives and History, Jackson New-York Historical Society, New York City New York Public Library Columbia University Library, New York City Pierpont Morgan Library, New York City University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Morristown National Historical Park, New Jersey Princeton University Lafayette College, Easton, Pennsylvania Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia xix
E D I T O R I A L M E T H O D A N D A P PA R AT U S
PPL PWacD TxU Vi ViHi ViU ViW ViWC
Library Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania David Library of the American Revolution, Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania University of Texas, Austin Library of Virginia, Richmond Virginia Historical Society, Richmond University of Virginia, Charlottesville College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
The following symbol represents a repository located outside of the United States: RuAVPR
Arkhiv Vneshnei Politiki Rossii, Moscow, Russia
5. NATIONAL ARCHIVES DESIGNATIONS
Documents in the National Archives have the location symbol DNA, with identifications of record groups and series as follows: RG 11 RG 29 RG 42
RG 45
RG 46
RG 56 RG 59
General Records of the United States Government Records of the Bureau of Census Records of the Public Buildings and Public Parks of the National Capital LRDLS Letters Received and Drafts of Letters Sent Naval Records Collection of the Office of Naval Records and Library LSO Letters Sent to Officers LSP Letters Sent to the President MLR Misc. Letters Received MLS Misc. Letters Sent Records of the United States Senate EPFR Executive Proceedings, Foreign Relations EPIR Executive Proceedings, Indian Relations LPPM Legislative Proceedings, President’s Messages General Records of the Department of the Treasury PFLP Papers Relating to the Financing of the Louisiana Purchase General Records of the Department of State xx
E D I T O R I A L M E T H O D A N D A P PA R AT U S
CD GPR LAR
RG 75 RG 76 RG 84 RG 94 RG 107
RG 217
RG 233
RG 351
Consular Dispatches General Pardon Records Letters of Application and Recommendation MLR Misc. Letters Received NL Notes from Legations RD Resignations and Declinations TP Territorial Papers Records of the Bureau of Indian Affairs LSIA Letters Sent by the Secretary of War Relating to Indian Affairs Records of Boundary and Claims Commissions and Arbitrations Records of the Foreign Service Posts of the Department of State CR Consular Records Records of the Adjutant General’s Office Records of the Office of the Secretary of War LSMA Letters Sent by the Secretary of War Relating to Military Affairs LSP Letters Sent to the President MLS Misc. Letters Sent RLRMS Register of Letters Received, Main Series Records of the Accounting Officers of the Department of the Treasury ROFCMLS Records of the Office of the First Comptroller, Misc. Letters Sent Records of the United States House of Representatives PM President’s Messages PMRDT Petitions, Memorials, and Related Documents That Were Tabled Records of the Government of the District of Columbia
6. OTHER SYMBOLS AND ABBREVIATIONS
The following symbols and abbreviations are commonly employed in the annotation throughout the work. Second Series The topical series to be published as part of this edition, comprising those materials which are best suited to a topical rather than a chronological arrangement (see Vol. 1:xv-xvi) TJ Thomas Jefferson xxi
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TJ Editorial Files Photoduplicates and other editorial materials in the office of The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Princeton University Library TJ Papers Jefferson Papers (applied to a collection of manuscripts when the precise location of an undated, misdated, or otherwise problematic document must be furnished, and always preceded by the symbol for the institutional repository; thus “DLC: TJ Papers, 4:628-9” represents a document in the Library of Congress, Jefferson Papers, volume 4, pages 628 and 629. Citations to volumes and folio numbers of the Jefferson Papers at the Library of Congress refer to the collection as it was arranged at the time the first microfilm edition was made in 1944-45. Access to the microfilm edition of the collection as it was rearranged under the Library’s Presidential Papers Program is provided by the Index to the Thomas Jefferson Papers [Washington, D.C., 1976]) RG Record Group (used in designating the location of documents in the National Archives) SJL Jefferson’s “Summary Journal of Letters” written and received for the period 11 Nov. 1783 to 25 June 1826 (in DLC: TJ Papers). This register, kept in Jefferson’s hand, has been checked against the TJ Editorial Files. It is to be assumed that all outgoing letters are recorded in SJL unless there is a note to the contrary. When the date of receipt of an incoming letter is recorded in SJL, it is incorporated in the notes. Information and discrepancies revealed in SJL but not found in the letter itself are also noted. Missing letters recorded in SJL are, where possible, accounted for in the notes to documents mentioning them or in related documents. A more detailed discussion of this register and its use in this edition appears in Vol. 6:vii-x SJPL “Summary Journal of Public Letters,” an incomplete list of letters and documents written by TJ from 16 Apr. 1784 to 31 Dec. 1793, with brief summaries, in an amanuensis’s hand. This is supplemented by six pages in TJ’s hand, compiled at a later date, listing private and confidential memorandums and notes as well as official reports and communications by and to him as Secretary of State, 11 Oct. 1789 to 31 Dec. 1793 (in DLC: TJ Papers, Epistolary Record, 514-59 and 209-11, respectively; see Vol. 22:ix-x). Since nearly all documents in the amanuensis’s list are registered in SJL, while few in TJ’s list are so recorded, it is to be assumed that all references to SJPL are to the list in TJ’s hand unless there is a statement to the contrary V Ecu xxii
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ƒ £ s d ₶
Florin Pound sterling or livre, depending upon context (in doubtful cases, a clarifying note will be given) Shilling or sou (also expressed as /) Penny or denier Livre Tournois Per (occasionally used for pro, pre) 7. SHORT TITLES
The following list includes short titles of works cited frequently in this edition. Since it is impossible to anticipate all the works to be cited in abbreviated form, the list is revised from volume to volume. anb John A. Garraty and Mark C. Carnes, eds., American National Biography, New York and Oxford, 1999, 24 vols. Annals Annals of the Congress of the United States: The Debates and Proceedings in the Congress of the United States . . . Compiled from Authentic Materials, Washington, D.C., Gales & Seaton, 1834-56, 42 vols. All editions are undependable and pagination varies from one printing to another. The first two volumes of the set cited here have “Compiled . . . by Joseph Gales, Senior” on the title page and bear the caption “Gales & Seatons History” on verso and “of Debates in Congress” on recto pages. The remaining volumes bear the caption “History of Congress” on both recto and verso pages. Those using the first two volumes with the latter caption will need to employ the date of the debate or the indexes of debates and speakers. aps American Philosophical Society asp American State Papers: Documents, Legislative and Executive, of the Congress of the United States, Washington, D.C., 1832-61, 38 vols. Bear, Family Letters Edwin M. Betts and James A. Bear, Jr., eds., Family Letters of Thomas Jefferson, Columbia, Mo., 1966 Betts, Farm Book Edwin M. Betts, ed., Thomas Jefferson’s Farm Book, Princeton, 1953 Betts, Garden Book Edwin M. Betts, ed., Thomas Jefferson’s Garden Book, 1766-1824, Philadelphia, 1944 Biog. Dir. Cong. Biographical Directory of the United States Congress, 1774-1989, Washington, D.C., 1989 Bradley, Interim Appointment Jared William Bradley, ed., Interim Appointment: W. C. C. Claiborne Letter Book, 1804-1805 (Baton Rouge, 2002) xxiii
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Brigham, American Newspapers Clarence S. Brigham, History and Bibliography of American Newspapers, 1690-1820, Worcester, Mass., 1947, 2 vols. Bush, Life Portraits Alfred L. Bush, The Life Portraits of Thomas Jefferson, rev. ed., Charlottesville, 1987 dab Allen Johnson and Dumas Malone, eds., Dictionary of American Biography, New York, 1928-36, 20 vols. dhsc Maeva Marcus and others, eds., The Documentary History of the Supreme Court of the United States, 1789-1800, New York, 1985-2007, 8 vols. Dictionnaire Dictionnaire de biographie française, Paris, 1933- , 19 vols. dnb H. C. G. Matthew and Brian Harrison, eds., Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, In Association with The British Academy, From the Earliest Times to the Year 2000, Oxford, 2004, 60 vols. dsb Charles C. Gillispie, ed., Dictionary of Scientific Biography, New York, 1970-80, 16 vols. dvb John T. Kneebone and others, eds., Dictionary of Virginia Biography, Richmond, 1998- , 3 vols. eg Dickinson W. Adams and Ruth W. Lester, eds., Jefferson’s Extracts from the Gospels, Princeton, 1983, The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Second Series Evans Charles Evans, Clifford K. Shipton, and Roger P. Bristol, comps., American Bibliography: A Chronological Dictionary of All Books, Pamphlets and Periodical Publications Printed in the United States of America from . . . 1639 . . . to . . . 1820, Chicago and Worcester, Mass., 1903-59, 14 vols. Ford Paul Leicester Ford, ed., The Writings of Thomas Jefferson, Letterpress Edition, New York, 1892-99, 10 vols. Gallatin, Papers Carl E. Prince and Helene E. Fineman, eds., The Papers of Albert Gallatin, microfilm edition in 46 reels, Philadelphia, 1969, and Supplement, Barbara B. Oberg, ed., reels 47-51, Wilmington, Del., 1985 haw Henry A. Washington, ed., The Writings of Thomas Jefferson, New York, 1853-54, 9 vols. Heitman, Dictionary Francis B. Heitman, comp., Historical Register and Dictionary of the United States Army, Washington, D.C., 1903, 2 vols. Heitman, Register Francis B. Heitman, Historical Register of Officers of the Continental Army during the War of the Revolution, April, 1775, to December, 1793, new ed., Washington, D.C., 1914 xxiv
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Jackson, Lewis and Clark Donald Jackson, ed., The Letters of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, with Related Documents, 1783-1854, 2d ed., Urbana, Ill., 1978 jcc Worthington C. Ford and others, eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789, Washington, D.C., 1904-37, 34 vols. jep Journal of the Executive Proceedings of the Senate of the United States . . . to the Termination of the Nineteenth Congress, Washington, D.C., 1828, 3 vols. jhr Journal of the House of Representatives of the United States, Washington, D.C., 1826, 9 vols. js Journal of the Senate of the United States, Washington, D.C., 1820-21, 5 vols. Kline, Burr Mary-Jo Kline, ed., Political Correspondence and Public Papers of Aaron Burr, Princeton, 1983, 2 vols. l & b Andrew A. Lipscomb and Albert E. Bergh, eds., The Writings of Thomas Jefferson, Washington, D.C., 1903-04, 20 vols. Latrobe, Correspondence John C. Van Horne and Lee W. Formwalt, eds., The Correspondence and Miscellaneous Papers of Benjamin Henry Latrobe, New Haven, 1984-88, 3 vols. lcb Douglas L. Wilson, ed., Jefferson’s Literary Commonplace Book, Princeton, 1989, The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Second Series List of Patents A List of Patents Granted by the United States from April 10, 1790, to December 31, 1836, Washington, D.C., 1872 Madison, Papers William T. Hutchinson, Robert A. Rutland, J. C. A. Stagg, and others, eds., The Papers of James Madison, Chicago and Charlottesville, 1962- , 41 vols. Sec. of State Ser., 1986- , 11 vols. Pres. Ser., 1984- , 10 vols. Ret. Ser., 2009- , 3 vols. Malone, Jefferson Dumas Malone, Jefferson and His Time, Boston, 1948-81, 6 vols. mb James A. Bear, Jr., and Lucia C. Stanton, eds., Jefferson’s Memorandum Books: Accounts, with Legal Records and Miscellany, 1767-1826, Princeton, 1997, The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Second Series Miller, Treaties Hunter Miller, ed., Treaties and Other International Acts of the United States of America, Washington, D.C., 1931-48, 8 vols. Monroe, Papers Daniel Preston, ed., The Papers of James Monroe, Westport, Conn., 2003- , 6 vols. xxv
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Moulton, Journals of the Lewis & Clark Expedition Gary E. Moulton, ed., Journals of the Lewis & Clark Expedition, Lincoln, Neb., 1983-2001, 13 vols. ndbw Dudley W. Knox, ed., Naval Documents Related to the United States Wars with the Barbary Powers, Washington, D.C., 1939-44, 6 vols. and Register of Officer Personnel and Ships’ Data, 1801-1807, Washington, D.C., 1945 ndqw Dudley W. Knox, ed., Naval Documents Related to the Quasi-War between the United States and France, Naval Operations, Washington, D.C., 1935-38, 7 vols. (cited by years) Nichols, Architectural Drawings Frederick Doveton Nichols, Thomas Jefferson’s Architectural Drawings, Compiled and with Commentary and a Check List, Charlottesville, 1978 Notes, ed. Peden Thomas Jefferson, Notes on the State of Virginia, ed. William Peden, Chapel Hill, 1955 oed J. A. Simpson and E. S. C. Weiner, eds., The Oxford English Dictionary, Oxford, 1989, 20 vols. Parry, Consolidated Treaty Series Clive Parry, ed., The Consolidated Treaty Series, Dobbs Ferry, N.Y., 1969-81, 231 vols. Peale, Papers Lillian B. Miller and others, eds., The Selected Papers of Charles Willson Peale and His Family, New Haven, 19832000, 5 vols. in 6 pmhb Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, 1877pw Wilbur S. Howell, ed., Jefferson’s Parliamentary Writings, Princeton, 1988, The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Second Series rchs Records of the Columbia Historical Society, 1895-1989 Rollings, The Osage Willard H. Rollings, The Osage: An Ethnohistorical Study of Hegemony on the Prairie Plains, Columbia, Mo., 1992 Rowland, Claiborne Letter Books Dunbar Rowland, ed., The Official Letter Books of W. C. C. Claiborne, 1801-1816, Jackson, Miss., 1917, 6 vols. rs J. Jefferson Looney and others, eds., The Papers of Thomas Jefferson: Retirement Series, Princeton, 2004- , 15 vols. S.C. Biographical Directory, House of Representatives J. S. R. Faunt, Walter B. Edgar, N. Louise Bailey, and others, eds., Biographical Directory of the South Carolina House of Representatives, Columbia, S.C., 1974-92, 5 vols. Shaw-Shoemaker Ralph R. Shaw and Richard H. Shoemaker, comps., American Bibliography: A Preliminary Checklist for 18011819, New York, 1958-63, 22 vols. xxvi
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Sowerby E. Millicent Sowerby, comp., Catalogue of the Library of Thomas Jefferson, Washington, D.C., 1952-59, 5 vols. Stanton, Free Some Day Lucia Stanton, Free Some Day: The AfricanAmerican Families of Monticello, Charlottesville, 2000 Stein, Worlds Susan R. Stein, The Worlds of Thomas Jefferson at Monticello, New York, 1993 Stets, Postmasters Robert J. Stets, Postmasters & Postoffices of the United States 1782-1811, Lake Oswego, Ore., 1994 Sturtevant, Handbook William C. Sturtevant, Handbook of North American Indians, Washington, D.C., 1978- , 15 vols. Terr. Papers Clarence E. Carter and John Porter Bloom, eds., The Territorial Papers of the United States, Washington, D.C., 1934-75, 28 vols. tjr Thomas Jefferson Randolph, ed., Memoir, Correspondence, and Miscellanies, from the Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Charlottesville, 1829, 4 vols. Tulard, Dictionnaire Napoléon Jean Tulard, Dictionnaire Napoléon, Paris, 1987 U.S. Statutes at Large Richard Peters, ed., The Public Statutes at Large of the United States . . . 1789 to March 3, 1845, Boston, 1855-56, 8 vols. vmhb Virginia Magazine of History and Biography, 1893Washington, Papers W. W. Abbot, Dorothy Twohig, Philander D. Chase, Theodore J. Crackel, Edward C. Lengel, and others, eds., The Papers of George Washington, Charlottesville, 1983- , 65 vols. Confed. Ser., 1992-97, 6 vols. Pres. Ser., 1987- , 19 vols. Ret. Ser., 1998-99, 4 vols. Rev. War Ser., 1985- , 26 vols. wmq William and Mary Quarterly, 1892Woods, Albemarle Edgar Woods, Albemarle County in Virginia, Charlottesville, 1901
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CONTENTS Fo r ew o r d Ack no w led g m e n t s E d ito r ia l Me t ho d a n d A p pa rat u s I llu st ratio n s Jef f e r so n C h r o n o l o gy
l 1804 l
l l
k
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From Abigail Adams, 1 July From Samuel H. Baker, 1 July From William C. C. Claiborne, 1 July From Pierre Samuel Du Pont de Nemours, 1 July From Ephraim Kirby, 1 July From Lafayette, 1 July From John Taylor, 1 July From James Wilkinson, with Jefferson’s Note, enclosing Character Sketches of Orleans Residents, with Jefferson’s Notes, and Comments on Orleans Residents, with Jefferson’s Notes, 1 July From William O. Callis, 2 July From Albert Gallatin, 2 July From Albert Gallatin, 2 July From J. P. G. Muhlenberg, 2 July To Thomas Munroe, 2 July Notes on Washington Highways, [ca. 2 July] From Edmund Searcy, 2 July From George Twyman, [before 3 July] To Albert Gallatin, 3 July From Bishop James Madison, 3 July From Thomas Munroe, 3 July From Robert Smith, 3 July From Peter Freneau, 4 July Notes on Dispatches from William C. C. Claiborne, 4 July To Robert Smith, 4 July From Theodorus Bailey, 5 July From William Cocke, 5 July From Daniel French, 5 July To James Madison, 5 July
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vii xv xvii xlvii 2
3 6 7 9 12 13 13
14 24 25 27 28 28 29 30 31 31 32 33 33 34 35 36 37 37 39 46
CONTENTS To James Madison, 5 July From Craven Peyton, 5 July From James Wilkinson, 5 July To James Madison, 6 July From Thomas Munroe, 6 July To Robert Smith, 6 July From Robert Smith, 6 July To William C. C. Claiborne, 7 July From Thomas Munroe, 7 July From Anonymous, 8 July To Thomas Munroe, 8 July From Jacques Tanesse, 8 July From Albert Gallatin, 9 July From Louis André Pichon, 9 July To William Short, 9 July Petition of James Snow, with Jefferson’s Order, 9 July To Thomas Whitney, 9 July To Victor Marie du Pont, 10 July Invoice from Henry Ingle, 10 [July] To Jones & Howell, 10 July From John Page, 10 July From Samuel Smith, 10 July From Thomas Truxtun, 10 July To John Armstrong of New York, 11 July To Stephen Cathalan, Jr., 11 July To Fulwar Skipwith, 11 July To Albert Gallatin, 12 July From Thomas Munroe, 12 July To White Hair and Others, 12 July Notes on Speeches of White Hair and Dog Soldier, [12 July] From Abraham Bishop, enclosing Memorial of Merchants of New Haven, with Jefferson’s Query, 13 July From Joseph Donath, 13 July From Jones & Howell, 13 July From Thomas Munroe, 13 July Notes on Appointments, [on or before 13 July] To Robert Smith, 13 July To the Ursuline Nuns of New Orleans, [13 July] From Joseph Yznardi, Sr., 13 July Notes on Upper Louisiana, [before 14 July] From Richard Claiborne, 14 July
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47 49 49 50 50 51 51 52 55 55 56 56 57 57 58 59 60 61 61 62 62 62 63 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 75 76 76 76 77 77 78 79 80 83
CONTENTS From Jacob Crowninshield, 14 July, enclosing Memorandum on a Shipment of Halibut and Cod, 13 July From Henry Dearborn, 14 July From Susannah Bolton Finch, 14 July To William Henry Harrison, 14 July To James Madison, 14 July To Thomas Munroe, 14 July To Thomas Munroe, 14 July From Thomas Munroe, 14 July From Thomas Munroe, 14 July To Thomas Munroe, 15 July From Robert Smith, 15 July From Richard Cutts, 16 July To Dog Soldier, 16 July From Victor Marie du Pont & Co., 16 July From John Wayles Eppes, 16 July To White Hair and Others, 16 July Notes on Reply of White Hair, 16 July To William C. C. Claiborne, 17 July From Alexander J. Dallas, 17 July To William Dunbar, 17 July To Martha Jefferson Randolph, 17 July To Cato West, 17 July From Albert Gallatin, 18 July From Ebenezer Hoppe, 18 July From Benjamin Lincoln, 18 July From John Marrast, 18 July To Philip Mazzei, 18 July From William Roberts, [18 July] To Thomas Appleton, 19 July To William O. Callis, 19 July To William Jarvis, 19 July From Philip Mazzei, 19 July From William Short, 19 July From Robert Smith, 19 July To Samuel Harrison Smith, [19 July] To Joseph Yznardi, Sr., 19 July To John Armstrong of New York, 20 July To James Brown, 20 July To Stephen Cathalan, Jr., 20 July To Dominick A. Hall, 20 July
xxxi
84 87 88 89 90 91 92 92 93 94 94 95 95 96 97 98 101 101 102 103 105 105 106 107 109 109 110 113 114 115 115 116 117 117 118 119 120 120 120 121
CONTENTS To Wade Hampton, 20 July To William Jarvis, 20 July To Richard Kennon, 20 July To James Maury, 20 July To John B. Prevost, 20 July From Robert Smith, 20 July From Samuel Harrison Smith, 20 July To Thomas Sumter, Sr., 20 July To Joseph Yznardi, Sr., 20 July To Jacob Crowninshield, 21 July To Alexander J. Dallas, 21 July From Alexander J. Dallas, 21 July From Brockholst Livingston, 21 July From Robert Smith, 21 July To Abigail Adams, 22 July To Daniel Carroll Brent, 22 July To George Jefferson, 22 July From Charles Willson Peale, 22 July From Antonio Porcile, 22 July To William Short, 22 July Notes on Shipment, [before 23 July] Petition of Thomas Duffy (Thomas Rustic), 23 July Contract for Purchase of John Freeman, 23 July From Albert Gallatin, 23 July From Albert Gallatin, 23 July From Constantine S. Rafinesque, 23 July From Robert Smith, 23 July From Pierre Auguste Adet, 24 July From Charles Willson Peale, 24 July From John Boanson, 25 July From James Cheetham, 25 July From Ellen Wayles Randolph, [before 26] July From Gabriel Duvall, 26 July From Albert Gallatin, 26 July From John B. Prevost, 26 July From Stephen Cathalan, Jr., 27 July To William Kilty, 27 July To James Madison, 27 July From Thomas Law, 28 July From Charles M. Poor, 28 July To William Frederick Ast, 29 July To Alexander J. Dallas, 29 July
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122 122 123 123 124 125 125 126 126 127 127 128 128 129 129 131 131 132 133 136 136 137 139 141 142 143 144 145 147 148 149 152 153 153 155 156 157 157 158 158 159 160
CONTENTS From John Wayles Eppes, 29 July To Albert Gallatin, 29 July To George Jefferson, 29 July To Étienne Lemaire, 29 July From Samuel Lewis, Sr., 29 July To Constantine S. Rafinesque, 29 July From Thomas Munroe, 31 July To Samuel Harrison Smith, 31 July Notes on Appointments, [ca. July] From William Kilty, 1 August From Elkanah Watson, 1 August From William Kilty, 2 August From Peter Kuhn, Sr., 2 August From John Ewing Porter, 2 August From John Armstrong of New York, 3 August To Elias Boudinot, 3 August From Stephen Cathalan, Jr., 3 August To Henry Dearborn, 3 August From Michael Fortune, 3 August To Albert Gallatin, 3 August To Peter Lenox, 3 August To James Madison, 3 August From Jonathan Morgan, Jr., 3 August To Robert Smith, 3 August To William Thornton, 3 August To Benjamin Hawkins, 4 August From James Madison, 4 August To Thomas Munroe, 4 August Notes on Information from Isaac Briggs, [on or before 4 August] From Richard Kennon, 5 August From John Thomson Mason, 5 August From Richard Richardson, 5 August From Isaac Neufville, 6 August From Thomas Newton, 6 August From Vicomte de Pastey, [6 August] From Daniel Brent, 7 August From John C. Delacoste, 7 August To John Wayles Eppes, 7 August To Albert Gallatin, 7 August From Levett Harris, 7 August To James Madison, 7 August From James Madison, 7 August
xxxiii
160 161 162 162 163 163 164 166 168 171 171 172 173 173 174 175 175 178 179 179 181 181 181 183 184 184 184 187 188 188 189 190 192 192 193 193 194 195 196 196 198 200
CONTENTS To Henry Dearborn, 8 August To Albert Gallatin, 8 August From James T. Leonard, 8 August From John Mason, 8 August To Wilson Cary Nicholas, 8 August To Benjamin Rush, 8 August From Samuel Harrison Smith, 8 August From Gideon Granger, 9 August From Dominick A. Hall, 9 August From Philip Turpin, 9 August From John Brown, 10 August From William Cranch and Nicholas Fitzhugh, with Jefferson’s Order, enclosing Petition of Charles Brown, 10 August From William Branch Giles, 11 August From Étienne Lemaire, 11 August From Cato West, 11 August To Henry Dearborn, 12 August To Victor Marie du Pont, 12 August To Walter Jones, Jr., 12 August To John Thomson Mason, 12 August To Samuel Harrison Smith, 12 August To George Jefferson, 13 August From James Madison, 13 August From James Madison, 14 August From Thomas McKean, 14 August From John Page, 14 August To John C. Delacoste, 15 August From Charles W. Goldsborough, 15 August To Richard Kennon, 15 August To James T. Leonard, 15 August To James Madison, 15 August Petition of George McFarlane, 15 August To Richard Richardson, 15 August From Joseph Briggs, 16 August From William Cranch and Nicholas Fitzhugh, with Jefferson’s Order, 16 August From Albert Gallatin, 16 August From Thomas Leiper, 16 August To James Madison, 16 August From James Madison, 16 August To John Page, 16 August To John Smith of the War Department, 16 August
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200 201 202 203 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 209 211 211 212 212 213 213 214 214 215 215 219 220 221 221 222 222 223 223 224 225 226 227 227 229 233 234 235 236
CONTENTS To Jacob Wagner, 16 August From Joseph Briggs, enclosing Legislative Council Recommendations, 17 August From Gabriel Duvall, 17 August From Madame de Tessé, 17 August From Abigail Adams, 18 August To John Barnes, 18 August From Daniel Carroll Brent, 18 August From John Coles of Boston, 18 August To William Curtis, 18 August From William Dunbar, 18 August From William M. Finlay, 18 August To George Jefferson, 18 August To James Madison, 18 August From James Madison, 18 August From John Thomson Mason, 18 August To Henry Dearborn, 19 August To James Madison, 19 August To Thomas McKean, 19 August To Charles Willson Peale, 19 August From Charles Willson Peale, 19 August To William Pelham, 19 August From Robert Williams, 19 August From Joel Barlow, 20 August From Jean André Chrestien, 20 August From Albert Gallatin, 20 August From Thomas Truxtun, 20 August From Christophe Winckelblech, 20 August From John Barnes, 21 August From James Madison, 21 August From Hezekiah Rogers, 21 August From John Marrast, 22 August From Henry Dearborn, 23 August From Henry Dearborn, 23 August To Albert Gallatin, 23 August From Abraham Husted, Jr., 23 August To James Madison, 23 August From Charles Pougens, 23 August Petition of Puckshunubbee and Homastubbee, 23 August To Jacob Wagner, 23 August From Thomas W. Waters, 23 August From Jean Decout, 24 August
xxxv
236 237 239 240 243 245 245 246 248 250 251 252 252 253 255 256 256 257 258 259 260 260 261 262 263 268 270 272 274 275 277 278 279 279 280 281 282 283 284 284 286
CONTENTS To Napoleon, Emperor of the French, 24 August From Richard Richardson, 24 August From John Smith of the War Department, 24 August From James Brown, 25 August From James Madison, 25 August From Garrett Elliott Pendergrast, 25 August From John Reed, 25 August From Alpheus Rouse, 26 August From Robert Ware Peacock, 27 August From Charles Willson Peale, 27 August From William Curtis, 28 August From Simeon De Witt, 28 August From James Madison, 28 August To Robert Smith, 28 August From Jacob Wagner, 28 August From William C. C. Claiborne, 29 August From Benjamin Rush, 29 August Notes on Appointments, [before 30 August] To William C. C. Claiborne, 30 August From William C. C. Claiborne, 30 August To Henry Dearborn, 30 August From Albert Gallatin, 30 August From Philip Mazzei, 30 August From Sylvanus Bourne, 31 August From Elizabeth House Trist, 31 August From William C. C. Claiborne, 1 September To Albert Gallatin, 1 September From John M. Gelston, enclosing Memorial from New Orleans Merchants, 1 September From Isaac Jefferson of Boston, 1 September From Thomas Appleton, 2 September To John Barnes, 2 September From Isaac Briggs, 2 September From Gideon Granger, 2 September From Nathaniel Macon, 2 September From “Timothy Scrape,” 2 September From John Sibley, 2 September From Gabriel Duvall, 3 September From Robert Smith, 3 September Notes on Roofing, [before 4 September] From Albert Gallatin, 4 September To Jones & Howell, 4 September
xxxvi
289 290 291 291 292 293 294 295 297 297 299 300 300 302 303 303 304 305 306 308 314 315 316 325 325 326 327 329 330 331 332 334 335 336 337 338 340 341 342 345 346
CONTENTS From John M. O’Harnett, 4 September From Richard Kennon, 5 September To Henry Dearborn, 6 September From Gideon Granger, 6 September From Justus Le Beau, 6 September To James Madison, 6 September To Robert Smith, 6 September From Carlos Martínez de Irujo, 7 September From William Jackson, enclosing Statement Regarding a Conversation with Carlos Martínez de Irujo, 7 September From William C. C. Claiborne, 8 September From George Doherty, 8 September To Albert Gallatin, 8 September From James Madison, 8 September Notes for Consultation with James Madison, [on or after 8 September] From Samuel Smith, 8 September To Robert Bailey, 9 September To Jean Decout, 9 September From Ferdinando Fairfax, 9 September From William Jackson, 9 September From “An Observer,” 9 September From Robert Smith, 9 September From Henry Terrell, 9 September From Elizabeth House Trist, 9 September From Gabriel Duvall, 10 September To Abraham Husted, Jr., 10 September To William Jones, 10 September From Allan B. Magruder, 10 September To Abigail Adams, 11 September From Anonymous, [on or before 11 September] From William Lee, enclosing Invoice for Wines and Food, 12 September From Abraham Bradley, Jr., enclosing Map of Mail Routes in Pennsylvania, 13 September From William C. C. Claiborne, 13 September From Henry Dearborn, 13 September To Ferdinando Fairfax, 13 September Petition of John McFarlane, with Jefferson’s Order, 13 September From William Alexander, 14 September From John Cockle, 14 September From John Monroe, 14 September
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347 349 349 350 351 354 355 356 357 359 360 361 362 364 365 366 367 367 369 370 371 372 374 375 376 376 377 379 382 382 384 387 388 390 390 392 393 394
CONTENTS From Robert Smith, 14 September From Joseph Yznardi, Sr., 14 September To Carlos Martínez de Irujo, 15 September To William Jackson, 15 September From Jones & Howell, 15 September To Charles Willson Peale, 15 September From John Wayles Eppes, 16 September From Thomas Leiper, 16 September To Levi Lincoln, 16 September From John Page, 16 September From Edmund Randolph, 16 September From Francis Abraham, 17 September From Ebenezer Blachly, Jr., 17 September To Gideon Fitz, 17 September From Étienne Lemaire, 17 [September] From Thomas M. Potter, 17 September From Thomas Sumter, Sr., 17 September From William C. C. Claiborne, 18 September From John Coles, 18 September From Albert Gallatin, 18 September From Thomas Worthington, 18 September From David Gelston, 20 September From Edward Pole, 20 September To William Short, 20 September From Jacob Wagner, 20 September From Stephen Cathalan, Jr., 22 September From James Madison, 22 September To John B. Magruder, 23 September From Charles Willson Peale, 23 September From Archibald Stuart, 23 September Memorandum of Tasks for James Dinsmore, 24 September Memorandum of Tasks for John Hemings, [24 September] Memorandum of Tasks for John Perry, 24 September From George Newbold, 24 September From Gideon Granger, 25 September To Étienne Lemaire, 25 September List of Letters Received from Carlos Martínez de Irujo, 25 September To James Madison, 25 September From James Monroe, 25 September From James Old, 25 September From Thomas Truxtun, 25 September
xxxviii
395 396 397 398 399 399 400 400 402 403 405 406 406 407 408 409 410 411 412 412 414 414 414 415 417 417 423 424 425 426 427 428 428 429 429 430 430 431 432 436 436
CONTENTS From Matthew C. Groves, 26 September From James Maury, 26 September From William C. C. Claiborne, 27 September From Nicolas Gouin Dufief, 27 September To John Harvie, 27 September From Benjamin Harwood, 28 September From John F. Mercer, 28 September From William Kilty, 29 September From Charles François d’Anmours, 30 September From Thomas T. Davis, 30 September From Allen Bowie Duckett, 30 [September] To Archibald Stuart, [September?] From Jean Étienne Boré and Others, 1 October From Philip B. Bradley, 1 October From David Campbell, 1 October From Giovanni Fabbroni, 1 October From Albert Gallatin, 1 October From William Jones, 1 October From William Kilty, 1 October From John Randall, 1 October From Isaac Briggs, 2 October From Pierre Samuel Du Pont de Nemours, 2 October From Albert Gallatin, enclosing List of Candidates for Minister to Spain, [2 October] From Chauncy Hall, 2 October From William Kilty, 2 October From James Madison, 2 October Memorandum from Thomas Munroe, 2 October From Pierce Butler, 3 October From Joseph Cabrera, 3 October From William Eustis, 3 October From Samuel Hanson, 3 October To Albert Gallatin, 4 October From George Jefferson, 4 October From Robert K. Lowry, 4 October To the State Department, 4 October To Thomas Truxtun, 4 October From William C. C. Claiborne, 5 October From Albert Gallatin, 5 October From George Ingels, 5 October To George Jefferson, 5 October To Jones & Howell, 5 October
xxxix
437 441 442 443 444 444 445 446 446 447 448 449 449 452 453 455 455 456 457 458 459 462 463 464 465 466 467 468 468 473 474 474 475 475 476 477 477 480 481 482 482
CONTENTS To Benjamin H. Latrobe, 5 October To Allan B. Magruder, 5 October Notes on Appointments, [on or before 5 October] Petition of Charles Smallwood, with Jefferson’s Order, [on or before 5 October] From Jacob Wagner, with Notes for a Reply, [5 October] To Jacob Wagner, 5 October From David Austin, 6 October To DeWitt Clinton, 6 October From “A Friend to Merit,” 6 October From William Jarvis, 6 October To Charles Willson Peale, 6 October From James Oldham, 7 October To Martha Jefferson Randolph, 7 October From Daniel Baldwin, 8 October From Joseph Barnes, 8 October From Jonathan Cumings, 8 October Petition of Henny Day, with Jefferson’s Order, [on or before 8 October] From William Fleischer, 8 October To George Jefferson, 8 October From Lafayette, 8 October Notes on a Cabinet Meeting, 8 October From Charles Willson Peale, 8 October From William Poole, Cyrus Newlin, and Robert Newlin, 8 October From Henry Dearborn, 9 October To John F. Mercer, 9 October To Thomas Mann Randolph, 9 October From Joseph Yznardi, Sr., 9 October From Justus Erich Bollmann, 10 October From William Lee, 10 October From George Jefferson, 11 October From Benjamin H. Latrobe, 11 October To James Oldham, 11 October From Thomas Mann Randolph, 11 October To Carlos IV, King of Spain, 12 October From Pierre Chouteau, 12 October From Albert Gallatin, 12 October From George Jefferson, 12 October To James Madison, 12 October To William Fleischer, 13 October To Albert Gallatin, 13 October
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483 484 485 485 487 487 488 488 489 492 493 494 495 496 497 500 501 501 502 503 507 508 509 510 510 511 511 514 515 518 519 519 520 522 522 524 525 525 525 526
CONTENTS To John Marrast, 13 October To Charles Willson Peale, 13 October To Carlos IV, King of Spain, 14 October From Peter Freneau, 14 October From Levi Lincoln, 14 October To Robert Smith, 14 October From Robert Butler, 15 October From William Dunbar, 15 October From Albert Gallatin, 15 October To John M. Gelston, 15 October To George Jefferson, 15 October From Meriwether Jones, 15 October From Nicholas King, 15 October From James Madison, [on or before 15 October] From Caesar A. Rodney, 15 October From John Rush, [on or before 15 October] From Matthew Wing, 15 October From Thomas Worthington, 15 October From Albert Gallatin, with Jefferson’s Note, [after 15 October?] From James Gamble, 16 October To Justus Erich Bollmann, 17 October From Uriah Smith, 17 October From Christopher Greenup, 18 October From Abiel Holmes, 18 October From Benjamin H. Latrobe, 18 October From Meyer, enclosing List of Seeds, 18 October From Gideon Fitz, 19 October From Albert Gallatin, [19 October] From Horatio Gates, 19 October To Meriwether Jones, 19 October From John F. Mercer, 19 October From John Rowan, 19 October From Thomas Hart and Others, 20 October From Jones & Howell, 20 October Memorandum for Henry Dearborn on Indian Policy, 20 October Notes on Choctaw Indian Lands, [on or before 20 October] From Charles Smith, 20 October From “A True Republican,” [before 21 October] From Phebe Baldwin, 21 October From Edmund Custis, 21 October From George Fowler, with Jefferson’s Note, 21 October From James Oldham, 21 October
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526 527 527 528 529 533 533 534 536 537 538 539 539 542 542 544 545 546 546 547 549 550 551 551 552 552 554 555 556 557 558 568 569 570 570 572 573 573 574 575 576 576
CONTENTS From Edward Tiffin and Others, [before 22 October] Bill for Preservation of Peace in Harbors and Waters I. Bill for the Preservation of Peace in Harbors and Waters of the United States, [on or before 22 October] II. From Henry Dearborn, [22 October] III. From Robert Smith, [25 October] From John Bird, 22 October From John Breckinridge, 22 October From William C. C. Claiborne, 22 October From Henry Dearborn, 22 October From James McPherson and Isaac Zane, 22 October From John Beckley, 23 October Bill to Regulate the Clearance of Armed Vessels I. James Madison’s Remarks on a Draft, [23 October] II. Draft Bill, [on or after 23 October] III. Robert Smith’s Remarks on the Draft, [27 October] IV. Henry Dearborn’s Remarks on the Draft, 28 October From Caldcleugh & Thomas, 23 October From Henry Dearborn, 23 October From Henry Dearborn, 24 October From Albert Gallatin, [24 October] From Richard Harrison, 24 October From Benjamin H. Latrobe, 24 October From Abigail Adams, 25 October From Samuel A. Otis, 25 October From Robert Smith, [25 October] From Robert Smith, [25 October] From Albert Gallatin, [on or after 26 October] From William Kilty and Nicholas Fitzhugh, with Jefferson’s Order, 26 October From Nicholas Meriwether Lewis, 26 October To John Rush, 26 October From Joseph Chambers, 27 October From William C. C. Claiborne, 27 October From John Parrish, 27 October From N. D. F. de Saint-Paul, 27 October From Justus Erich Bollmann, 28 October To Caldcleugh & Thomas, 28 October To William C. C. Claiborne, 28 October From Antoine Gouan, 28 October To Thomas Mann Randolph, 28 October From William Stephens, 28 October
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577 578 579 583 584 585 586 586 587 588 589 591 592 593 594 594 595 596 598 598 598 599 600 602 602 603 603 604 605 605 606 606 609 611 612 613 613 614 616 617
CONTENTS From Eben French, 29 October From Albert Gallatin, 29 October From John Haskell, 29 October From Elizabeth C. Leiper, 29 October From John Page, 29 October From Amos Stoddard, 29 October From Charles Willson Peale, 30 October From Robert Simons, 30 October From Nicolai Henrich Weinwich, 30 October From Cornelius C. Blachly, 31 October From Albert Gallatin, 31 October Notes on Tensions with Spain and Great Britain, [October] From William C. C. Claiborne, 1 November To Henry Dearborn, 1 November To Albert Gallatin, 1 November From Albert Gallatin, [1 November] From Enoch Hazard, 3 November From William Herries, 3 November To Benjamin H. Latrobe, 3 November From John Page, 3 November From John Page, 3 November From John Page, 3 November From William C. C. Claiborne, 4 November From Emilia Jervis, 4 November From Henry Dearborn, 5 November Memorandum from Albert Gallatin, [5 November] From James Lyle, 5 November From Louis André Pichon, 5 November From Philippe Reibelt, enclosing List of Books Sent to Jefferson, 5 November From William Short, 5 November From William Henry Harrison, 6 November To Reuben Lewis, 6 November From William McFarland, 6 November Memorandum on Commissions for the Legislative Council of Orleans Territory, [on or after 6 November] Notes on Candidates for the Legislative Council of Orleans Territory, [on or after 6 November] To Martha Jefferson Randolph, 6 November From Alexander I, Emperor of Russia, 7 November From James Brobson, 7 November From Pierre Chouteau, 7 November
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618 619 619 622 623 625 625 627 627 628 629 629 630 631 632 632 633 634 636 637 638 638 639 640 641 642 643 643 644 646 648 650 650 652 653 654 654 656 656
CONTENTS From Henry Dearborn, 7 November Memorandum from Albert Gallatin, [7 November] To Charles Willson Peale, 7 November From Robert Smith, enclosing Naval Appointments, 7 November Annual Message to Congress I. Draft of the Annual Message, [on or before 25 October] II. James Madison’s Remarks on the Draft, [25 October] III. Henry Dearborn’s Remarks on the Draft, [29 October] IV. Albert Gallatin’s Remarks on the Draft, 29 October V. Gallatin’s Remarks on the Draft, [29 October] VI. Robert Smith’s Remarks on the Draft, [31 October] VII. Gallatin’s Memorandum on Finances, [ca. 1 November] VIII. Gallatin’s Draft of the Financial Section, [1 November] IX. Gallatin’s Revised Draft of the Financial Section, [on or after 1 November] X. Draft of the Financial Section and Conclusion, [on or before 8 November] XI. Annual Message to Congress, 8 November From Caldcleugh & Thomas, 8 November From Albert Gallatin, [8 November] From Rodominick H. Gilmer, enclosing Memorial from Washington County, Mississippi Territory, 8 November List of Interim Appointments, [8 November] From James Yard, 8 November To Henry Dearborn, 9 November From Henry Dearborn, enclosing Army Appointments, 9 November From William Dunbar, 9 November From Albert Gallatin, [9 November] From William Keteltas, 9 November From Benjamin H. Latrobe, 9 November From Joseph Marie Lequinio de Kerblay, [9 November] From Samuel A. Otis, 9 November From Louis André Pichon, 9 November From Edward Roche, 9 November To the Senate, 9 November To the Senate, 9 November From S. Smith & Buchanan, 9 November From William C. C. Claiborne, 10 November To Albert Gallatin, 10 November To George Jefferson, 10 November To John Page, 10 November
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658 659 659 660 662 663 669 670 670 671 676 676 677 678 679 680 685 686 686 688 691 691 692 693 694 695 695 697 697 698 698 702 703 704 704 705 706 706
CONTENTS To William Short, 10 November From Larkin Smith, 10 November From James Wilkinson, 10 November
707 708 709
APPENDICES Appendix I: List of Appointments, [3 July-13 October] Appendix II: Dinner Guest Records 1. List of Members of Eighth Congress, Second Session, November 2. Dinner Attendance by Members of Congress, [5 November 1804-27 February 1805] 3. Dinners by Date, [5-9 November] Appendix III: Letters Not Printed in Full Appendix IV: Letters Not Found Appendix V: Financial Documents
711 714
I nd e x
735
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715 720 726 728 729 734
ILLUSTRATIONS Following page 354 NATURAL BRIDGE
Jefferson had a lifelong admiration of the Natural Bridge, a geological formation in Rockbridge County, Virginia, which he described as “the most sublime of Nature’s works” in his Notes on the State of Virginia. He purchased the 157-acre tract in 1774, and it remained part of his estate until 1833, although he occasionally leased it as a saltpeter mine and shot tower. Considering stewardship of the local attraction “in some degree as a public trust,” Jefferson encouraged tourism there and visited it at least four times in his life, highlighted by a trip in 1817 with his granddaughters Ellen and Cornelia. The site drew the attention of many visitors, including the Comte de Volney, the Marquis de Chastellux, Angelica Schuyler Church, William Strickland, and William Carmichael. Carmichael, who had described the site in 1772, tried to persuade Charles Willson Peale to paint it. Jefferson also encouraged artists Maria Cosway and John Trumbull to depict the Natural Bridge, urging Trumbull, in 1791, to paint “this singular landscape, which otherwise some bungling European will misrepresent.” Uninspired by engravings based on drawings of it by a French military engineer, the Baron de Turpin, Jefferson continued to promote the Natural Bridge as an opportunity for depiction by American artists. William Roberts, a Virginia artist about whom little is known, likely received an introduction to Jefferson from St. John de Crèvecoeur in London in the spring of 1786. After Roberts visited the Natural Bridge in July 1803, he rendered it in oil on canvas and presented the painting to the president as a gift a year later (see Roberts to TJ, 18 July, in this volume). In 1808, Roberts sent Jefferson a colored aquatint by Joseph Constantine Stadler based on his painting. In Roberts’s rendering, with the arch of the Natural Bridge exaggerated to the right, a ground-level view rather than a distant perspective is evident. Birds are visible in the upper left flying under the arch, and four people clustered in two groups on the ground provide a sense of proportion and human scale in contrast to the 200-foot height of the arch. Although neither Roberts’s painting nor the engraving he gave to the president has been found, a copy of the aquatint, measuring approximately 27¼ × 20½ inches, is reproduced in this volume from the one that hangs in the Monticello dining room today (Barbara C. Batson, “Virginia Landscapes by William Roberts,” Journal of Early Southern Decorative Arts, 10 [1984], 35-48; Stein, Worlds, 190; Notes, ed. Peden, 24; rs, 11:xlvii-xlviii, 621-34; Vol. 6:190-1; Vol. 10:429, 447, 627, 633; Vol. 12:601; Vol. 13:639; Vol. 14:45; Vol. 16:129; Vol. 19:298-301; Vol. 28:349; Vol. 29:482; Vol. 34:673; Vol. 41:111-12; Roberts to TJ, 26 Feb. 1808). Courtesy of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation at Monticello.
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I L LU S T R AT I O N S PEACE MEDAL
As secretary of state in 1793, responding to Spanish accusations of influence peddling in the disputed territories of West Florida and Louisiana, Jefferson defended the “antient custom” of giving peace medals to Native American dignitaries as merely bestowing “marks of friendship to those who come to see us, or who do us good offices, conciliatory of their good will towards us.” “They confer no power,” he wrote, “and seem to have taken their origin in the European practice of giving medals or other marks of friendship to the negotiators of treaties, and other diplomatic Characters, or visitors of distinction.” In practice, however, the medals were highly symbolic, a public declaration of allegiance and power. Osage leaders White Hair and Dog Soldier, visiting Washington in July 1804, received medals that Jefferson said would “testify to your people and to all others the esteem we bear you, and the confidence we repose in you.” Several hundred peace medals were struck in two-, three-, and four-inch sizes and sent to Pierre Chouteau, William Henry Harrison, and other U.S. agents to be distributed to Native American leaders as needed. Those perceived as being influential and powerful received the largest medals, while the two- and three-inch versions were given to leaders with lesser status. Meriwether Lewis and William Clark carried a variety of Jefferson and George Washington peace medals, including three of the four-inch size pictured here. Two of that size were given out, but the third, designated for “some great Cheif on the Yellow rock river,” was not, and presumably returned to St. Louis with the explorers. In 1806, a delegation of Osage, Missouri, and other nations arrived in Washington dressed in American uniforms and wearing “silver medals of Mr. Jefferson.” The first peace medals minted in the United States, Jefferson medals are made of German silver and struck from dies engraved by John Reich, the designer of the Jefferson inaugural medal in 1801. Too large for machinery available at the time in the United States to produce as solid coins, Jefferson peace medals are hollow, the obverse and reverse struck on separate silver plates held together with a silver band. Inscribed on the reverse are a crossed hatchet and pipe with the words “Peace and Friendship” over two clasped hands, their cuffs identifying them as an American official on the left and a Native American on the right. The image of Jefferson on the obverse, based on the bust by Jean Antoine Houdon, represents a return to the style of peace medal produced by the British, French, and Spanish, one perhaps favored by Native Americans for its more definitive association with the country’s leader. Earlier American peace medals, individually engraved in England, depicted allegorical figures, a discreet George Washington with his hand outstretched to a Native American, or scenes of agriculture and domestic industry. This new style became the standard for presidential peace medals in the nineteenth century (Moulton, Journals of the Lewis & Clark Expedition, 7:242; Francis Paul Prucha, Indian Peace Medals in American History [Madison, Wis., 1971], 90-5; R. W. Julian, Medals of the United States Mint: The First Century, 1792-1892 [El Cajon, Calif., 1977], 33; Vol. 26:239-40, 410; Vol. 38:169-70; TJ to Dog Soldier, 16 July 1804; Chouteau to TJ, 2 Mch. 1805; Aurora, 28 Jan. 1806). Courtesy of Numismatics Collection, Division of Work & Industry, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution.
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I L LU S T R AT I O N S PAWHUSKA (WHITE HAIR)
This profile of Pawhuska, or White Hair, chief of the Big Osages, was done by Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin, probably during the visit to the East Coast by a delegation of Osages in the summer of 1804. The delegation reached Washington on 11 July, spent several days there meeting with Jefferson and other political dignitaries, and later traveled to Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York before departing for St. Louis late in August. Pawhuska (d. 1809) impressed observers with the stern, regal bearing that Saint-Mémin captured in his profile. As was typical for him, Saint-Mémin made the picture from life with a device called a physiognotrace, which allowed him to record accurately the features of his subjects’ profiles. The artist then filled in details by hand, in this case using white and black chalk. The picture shows the Osage leader wearing a military-style coat, probably a gift from his hosts, as well as loosely sketched images of the peace medal with Jefferson’s image and the silver arm band with an American eagle that were presented to Pawhuska and other leaders of the delegation. An unusual element is the Osage leader’s long hair. Most Osage warriors shaved much of their hair, as illustrated in several other Saint-Mémin profiles executed from 1804 to 1807. It is possible that Pawhuska was wearing a wig—one theory on the chief ’s name of White Hair is that he took a wig from a white soldier in battle during the 1790s. Perhaps he had adopted a wig as a reminder of that event or to distinguish himself from other Osage leaders. About two years later, in a notation written on a letter Pawhuska sent to Jefferson, Secretary of War Henry Dearborn indicated that the United States would erect a mill for the use of the Big Osages (the principal subject of the letter) and added “a wig to be procured,” presumably as a sign of friendship. The administration placed a high value on fostering good relations with Pawhuska and his nation. As Jefferson wrote in a letter of 13 July to Robert Smith, it was critical that the United States stand well with the Osages and Sioux, “because in their quarter we are miserably weak.” Saint-Mémin’s portrait of Pawhuska is on pink-tinted paper and measures approximately 23 inches by 17 inches in size (Ellen G. Miles, “Saint-Mémin’s Portraits of American Indians, 1804-1807,” American Art Journal, 20 [1988], 3-6, 9-14; anb, s.v., “Pawhuska”; White Hair to TJ, 20 Sep. 1806). Courtesy of the New-York Historical Society. ABIGAIL SMITH ADAMS
This volume includes a lively exchange of five letters in the brief renewed correspondence, after a lengthy hiatus, between Abigail Adams and Jefferson. Adams initiated what became a five-month-long correspondence in May 1804 upon news reaching Quincy of the death of Jefferson’s daughter Mary. Jefferson used the occasion, which began as an expression of “Mutual sympathy” from one “Subscribing Herself your Friend,” as an open door to explore some unsettled political grievances from her husband’s presidency. The exchange quickly evolved into a political debate regarding interpretations of the Constitution over seditious libel, namely Jefferson’s remission of James T. Callender’s fine, and policies of executive appointments and removals, namely Jefferson’s removal of John Quincy Adams from a judiciary post. Jefferson
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I L LU S T R AT I O N S professed to tolerate differences of opinion, concluding that “both of our political parties, at least the honest portion of them, agree conscientiously in the same object, the public good: but they differ essentially in what they deem the means of promoting that good.” After airing her views and receiving some “Elucidations” and “explanations,” Adams terminated the correspondence on 25 Oct. and later informed her husband of the exchange of letters. Artist Gilbert Stuart, who had executed a portrait of Martha Washington, also received a commission to paint the second first lady before the end of her husband’s term. In 1800, a 56-year-old Adams paid $100 for the portrait by Stuart, but he did not deliver it until 1815. He updated it to depict Adams around that time, based on the style of her embroidered lace neck shawl. The painting drew many admirers and spectators to Stuart’s studio, which may explain his reluctance to release the portrait. John Quincy Adams considered it “so excellent a likeness” that the portrait, along with the companion piece of John Adams done by Stuart, stayed in the family for generations. The oil on canvas painting measures 28⅞ by 23½ inches (Ellen G. Miles, American Paintings of the Eighteenth Century [Washington, D.C., 1995], 160-2, 21416; Andrew Oliver, Portraits of John and Abigail Adams [Cambridge, Mass., 1967], 132-40, 251; Vol. 43:458-9; Adams to TJ, 1 July; TJ to Adams, 22 July; Adams to TJ, 18 Aug.; TJ to Adams, 11 Sep.; Adams to TJ, 25 Oct.). Courtesy of the National Gallery of Art, Washington. HAMILTON MONUMENT AT WEEHAWKEN
Alexander Hamilton died 12 July 1804, the fatal result of his duel with Aaron Burr the day before in Weehawken, New Jersey. Shaken by the death of his old friend, Lafayette wrote Jefferson on 8 Oct. that he was “Sure that Whatever Have Been the differences of parties, You Have Ever Been Sensible of His Merits, and Now feel for His Loss.” The president had no response for the general. In fact, little is known of Jefferson’s personal or political reaction either to the duel or to Hamilton’s death. Only a few of his letters mention the incident. To his daughter on 17 July, Jefferson included a postscript: “P.S. I presume mr Randolph’s newspapers will inform him of the death of Colo. Hamilton, which took place on the 12th.” To Philip Mazzei on 18 July he named Hamilton among recent and “remarkeable deaths,” but without further comment. Letters from cabinet members indicated that Jefferson disapproved of Federalists who mixed “sincere regret” with political motive, but his only epistolary comment was to repeat a few lines from a correspondent on the hoisting of “the black cockade” by Federalists in Philadelphia (Lafayette to TJ, 8 Oct.; TJ to Martha Jefferson Randolph, 17 July; TJ to Philip Mazzei, 18 July; Gallatin to TJ, 18 July; Thomas Leiper to TJ, 16 Aug.; TJ to Robert Smith, 28 Aug.). The St. Andrew’s Society erected a monument to Hamilton at the site of the duel in late 1806, illustrated here in a sketch by Joshua Rowley Watson, an English sea captain and amateur artist. A marble obelisk almost three feet high sat on a square pedestal and bore the inscription: “On this spot Fell, July 11th, 1804, Major-General Alexander Hamilton. As an expression of their affectionate regard to his memory and of their deep regret for his loss, The St. Andrew’s Society of the State of New York have erected this Monument.” Unfortunately, the monument not only served as a commemorative to a fallen
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I L LU S T R AT I O N S founder but also stimulated interest in the location as a dueling site. In response, the property’s owner demolished the memorial in 1820, and by 1901 the laying of a railroad over the grounds had obliterated any remaining markings of the famous duel. This image illustrates the right half of a watercolor-over-graphite sketch drawn by Watson in one of two sketchbooks he filled on a tour of the middle Atlantic seaboard, 1816-17. The left half of the sketch, not shown, sweeps down the Hudson River to include a view of New York City in the distance. With the sketchbook laid open, Watson’s full landscape cuts across two pages, each page 4½ inches by 8½ inches. Pages are off-white paper with an 1813 watermark. In the lower right-hand corner of the image, the artist wrote, “New York from Whehauken. 19th August 1816 J. R. Watson Delt.” (Kathleen A. Foster, Captain Watson’s Travels in America: The Sketchbooks and Diary of Joshua Rowley Watson, 1772-1818 [Philadelphia, 1997], 67, 212, 327; George Austin Morrison, Jr., History of Saint Andrew’s Society of the State of New York, 1756-1906 [New York, 1906], 13, 15; St. Albans Messenger, 11 Mch. 1901). Courtesy of the New-York Historical Society. DETAIL OF A PLAN OF THE TOWN AND HARBOR OF TRIPOLI
After the loss of the frigate Philadelphia in late 1803, Jefferson asked Congress to appropriate extra funds to increase the navy’s presence in the Mediterranean. Prior to the arrival of these reinforcements, Commodore Edward Preble launched a series of attacks against Tripoli in August and early September 1804. The fleet included his flagship, the frigate Constitution, and several brigs, schooners, gunboats, and bomb vessels. After the conclusion of the attacks, Frederick Cornelius de Krafft made a technical drawing, the “Plan of the Town and Harbor of Tripoli,” which shows a view from above of the city, its harbor, and its fortifications. Also included are various nautical hazards, such as the shoal where the Philadelphia ran aground, and depth soundings for the harbor and littoral zone in fathoms and feet. The drawing depicts the situations of the two navies during the 3 Aug. attack, including the line ahead course by U.S. ships, the frontal attack by the gunboats, the position of the two bomb vessels, and the strategic withdrawal of the Tripolitan navy. F. C. de Krafft (ca. 1784-1837), the creator of the “Plan of the Town and Harbor of Tripoli,” was likely a relative of Charles de Krafft, a surveyor and draftsman in the District of Columbia. De Krafft entered the navy as a midshipman in 1803 and served on board the Siren and the Scourge in the Mediterranean. Between 1805 and 1806, de Krafft served on the Hornet in U.S. home waters, and in 1807 commanded the Spitfire, stationed at Norfolk, before he resigned his commission in 1808. The watercolor and ink-on-paper drawing is 18½ inches tall and 38½ inches wide. In addition to the plan of the city and harbor, it includes a perspective “View of Tripoli in Barbary” in scale miles. At the bottom of the image is the signature: “F. C. de Krafft Septr. 28th. 1804. On Board the United States Brig Syren.” The drawing also contains 12 reference points: “A. Castle & House of the Bey”; “B. Grand Bazzar, or Market”; “C. Arsenal”; “D. Sea or Harbour gate”; “E. Land Port”; “F. Maltese Cast’le”; “G. French
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I L LU S T R AT I O N S Cast’le”; “H. Mandrack”; “I. Fort English”; “K. New Battery”; “L. Marabout, or burying place’s”; and “M. Position of the Frigte. Philadelphia on the Night of February 16th 1804. when burnt.” The detail of de Krafft’s drawing presented in this volume is roughly 15 inches tall by 12½ inches wide. It shows the street plan of the city of Tripoli, its defenses, and the location of the Philadelphia when it was burned by Stephen Decatur’s raid. The detail also depicts the positions of the two navies during the action on 3 Aug. At the bottom of the detail is part of de Krafft’s “perspective view,” which shows the city and the flags of the various European consulates (ndbw, Register, 15; Robert Smith to de Krafft, 14 May 1808, RG 45, LSO; Georgetown Centinel of Liberty, 26 Sep. 1800; Daily National Intelligencer, 22 Feb. 1837; Vol. 43:63-4, 231n; To the Senate and the House of Representatives, 20 Feb. 1805). Courtesy of the Library of Congress. PREBLE’S SQUADRON AT TRIPOLI
A View of Commodore Preble’s Squadron is the second in a series of two engravings by Charles Denoon detailing events from the First Barbary War. In the fall of 1805, Denoon, a seaman who was among the prisoners from the Philadelphia, offered by subscription two engraved and colored plates. The first of these illustrations, A Perspective View of the Loss of the U.S. Frigate Philadelphia (illustrated in Vol. 42), depicted the 31 Oct. 1803 capture of the vessel and its crew. The second image, printed in this volume, portrays Commodore Edward Preble’s first naval action and bombardment of Tripoli. In his newspaper advertisement, Denoon pledged “that the Views are correct, as is known by the Officers of the frigate Philadelphia who are now in Richmond, and by all those who returned from Tripoli in the ship President.” It is possible that Denoon was able to observe, and sketch, the navy’s maneuvering outside of the city, as in the advertisement he went on to state that the images “were taken at the risk of his life.” The image is 20 inches wide and 14 inches high, with a caption reading “A View of Commodore Preble’s Squadron whilst engaging the Gun-boats and Forts of Tripoli on the 3rd. of August 1804. when they captured three of the Tripolitan Gun-boats & greatly damag’d the Bashaw’s Fortifications.” Below the caption is a key describing several points of interest in the engraving: “1, Frigate Constitution, Commodore Preble. 2, Brig Syren, Capt Stewart. 3, Brig Argus, Capt Hall. 4, Schooner Vixen, Capt Smith. 5, Schr. Enterprise, Capt Decature. 6, Schr. Nautilus, Capt Somers. 7, Two Bombs. o, Six Gun-boats. 8, A Tripolitan Brig. 9, Schooner. 10, Row-galley. v, Gun-boats. 11, A French Privateer. a, The Bashaw’s Castle. b, Fort Buchamcene. c, Consular Flags. d, Fort Spanish. e, Fort Turk. f, Fort Jewish. g, Fort Redondo or the Admirals Fort. h, Mosques” (Richmond Enquirer, 5 Nov. 1805; Richmond Virginia Gazette and General Advertiser, 22 Feb. 1806; Vol. 42:xlviii-xlix). Courtesy of the William L. Clements Library, University of Michigan. DINNER GUEST RECORDS
In the autumn of 1804, Jefferson folded in half a single sheet of paper to create a four-page booklet, each leaf of which was approximately 8 inches
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I L LU S T R AT I O N S wide by 10 inches tall. On the cover leaf, he drew a series of columns, wrote “Nov. 1804.” in the upper left-hand corner, and began transcribing a list of the members of the second session of the Eighth Congress. With that began Jefferson’s dinner guest records, an almost four-and-a-half-year chronicle in his own hand that tracked not only his dinner invitations to members of Congress each congressional season but also recorded by date the names of almost every guest who dined with him at the President’s House. This volume introduces the dinner guest records to the Papers of Thomas Jefferson. Illustrated here is the first page of what would become an eightpage record in two four-page leaflets. In the first two columns on the left of the manuscript is the list of congressional members (Appendix ii, List 1). That is followed by three columns of the members invited to dinner and the dates of their attendance (List 2). The three columns on the right list dinners by date from 5 Nov. through 26 Dec. 1804. The first three dinners are in List 3. Subsequent installments of the chronological list will appear in future volumes. A large notation in pencil by someone other than Jefferson reads: “Supposed list of persons Entertained during T.J.’s 2d. term.” At the foot of the third column are calculations by Jefferson to help him arrange the second list and to determine the number of seatings at his large dinners over a 16-week period (see List 2). This was the first of only two times when Jefferson interrupted his guest lists with the mathematics of dining at the President’s House. Courtesy of the Massachusetts Historical Society.
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Volume 44 1 July to 10 November 1804
JEFFERSON CHRONOLOGY 1743 • 1826 1743 1760 1762 1762-1767 1769-1774 1772 1775-1776 1776 1776-1779 1779 1779-1781 1782 1783-1784 1784-1789 1790-1793 1797-1801 1801-1809 1814-1826 1826
Born at Shadwell, 13 April (New Style). Entered the College of William and Mary. “quitted college.” Self-education and preparation for law. Albemarle delegate to House of Burgesses. Married Martha Wayles Skelton, 1 Jan. In Continental Congress. Drafted Declaration of Independence. In Virginia House of Delegates. Submitted Bill for Establishing Religious Freedom. Governor of Virginia. His wife died, 6 Sep. In Continental Congress. In France as Minister Plenipotentiary to negotiate commercial treaties and as Minister Plenipotentiary resident at Versailles. Secretary of State of the United States. Vice President of the United States. President of the United States. Established the University of Virginia. Died at Monticello, 4 July.
VOLUME 44 1 July to 10 November 1804 2 July 11 July 12 July 23 July 3 Aug. 19 Aug. 29-31 Aug. 4 Sep. 16 Sep. 25 Sep. 27 Sep. 8 Oct. 16 Oct. 25 Oct. 5 Nov. 6 Nov. 8 Nov.
Work stoppage by cartmen and public works laborers in Washington. Aaron Burr mortally wounds Alexander Hamilton in a duel at Weehawken, New Jersey. Addresses Osage delegation in Washington. Leaves Washington for Monticello, arriving 26 July. U.S. squadron under Edward Preble begins a series of attacks on Tripoli that continues to 4 Sep. Declares polygraph copying machine “a most precious invention.” Visits Madison at Montpelier. John Armstrong, new U.S. minister to France, sets sail from New York. Asks attorney general for statement on “aggressions” by British warships in U.S. waters. Discusses U.S.-Spanish relations with Carlos Martínez de Irujo at Monticello. Leaves Monticello for Washington, arriving 30 Sep. Cabinet meeting to discuss relations with Spain. William Dunbar and George Hunter set out on their Ouachita River expedition. Abigail Adams ends her renewed correspondence. First President’s House dinner recorded on list that will run until March 1809. Assures Meriwether Lewis’s brother that the expedition is “as safe as at home.” Sends fourth annual message to Congress.
T H E PA P E R S O F
THOMAS JEFFERSON k
'
From Abigail Adams Sir Quincy July 1st 1804 Your Letter of June 13th came duly to hand; if it had contained no other sentiments and opinions than those which my Letter of condo lence could have excited, and which are expressed in the first page of your reply, our correspondence would have terminated here: but you have been pleased to enter upon some Subjects which call for a reply: and as you observe that you have wished for an opportunity to express your Sentiments, I have given to them every weight they claim. “one act of mr Adams’s Life, and one only, you repeat, ever gave me a moments personal displeasure. I did think his last appointments to office personally unkind. they were from among my most ardent po litical Enemies” As this act I am certain was not intended to give any personal pain or offence, I think it a duty to explain it so far as I then knew his views and designs. The constitution empowers the president to fill up offices as they become vacant, it was in the excercise of this power that appointments were made, and Characters Selected whom mr Adams considerd, as Men faithfull to the constitution and where he personally knew them, such as were capable of fullfilling their duty to their country. This was done by president washington equally, in the last days of his administration so that not an office remaind vacant for his successor to fill upon his comeing into the office. no offence was given by it, and no personal unkindness thought of. but the different political opinions which have so unhappily divided our Country, must have given rise to the Idea, that personal unkindness was intended. you will please to recollect Sir, that at the time these appointments were made, there was not any certainty that the presidency would devolve upon you, which is an other circumstance to prove that per sonal unkindness was not meant, no person was ever selected by him 3
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from such a motive—and so far was mr Adams from indulging such a sentiment, that he had no Idea of the intollerence of party spirit at that time. and I know it was his opinion that if the presidency de volved upon you, except in the appointment of secretaries, no mate rial Changes would be made. I perfectly agre with you in opinion that these should be Gentlemen in whom the president can repose confi dence, possessing opinions, and sentiments corresponding with his own, or if differing from him, that they ought rather to resign their office, than cabal against measures which he may think essential, to the honour safety and peace of the country. much less should they unite, with any bold, and daringly ambitious character, to overrule the Cabinet, or betray the Secrets of it to Friends or foes. the two Gentle men who held the offices of Secretaries, when you became president were not of this Character. they were appointed by your predecessor nearly two years previous to his retirement. they were gentlemen who had cordially coopperated with him, and enjoyed the public confi dence, possessing however different political sentiments from those which you were known to have embraced, it was expected that they would, as they did, resign. I have never felt any enmity towards you Sir for being Elected president of the united States. but the instruments made use of, and the means which were practised1 to effect a change, have my utter abhorrence and detestation, for they were the blackest calumny, and foulest falshoods. I had witnessed enough of the anxiety, and solici tude, the envy jealousy and reproach, attendant upon the office, as well as the high responsibility of the Station, to be perfectly willing to see a transfer of it. and I can truly say, that at the time of Election, I considerd your pretentions much superior to his, to whom an equal vote was given. your experience I venture to affirm has convinced you that it is not a station to be envy’d. If you feel yourself a freeman, and can act in all cases, according to your own sentiments, opinions and judgment, you can do more than either of your predecessors could, and are awfully responsible to God and your Country for the mea sures of your Administration. I rely upon the Friendship you still pro fess for me. and (I am conscious I have done nothing to forfeit it). to excuse the freedom of this discussion to which you have led with an unreserve, which has taken off the shackles I should otherways have found myself embarrassed with—and now Sir I will freely disclose to you what has severed the bonds of former Friendship, and placed you in a light very different from what I once viewed you in— one of the first acts of your administration was to liberate a wretch who was suffering the just punishment of the Law due to his crimes 4
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for writing and publishing the basest libel, the lowest and vilest slan der, which malice could invent, or calumny exhibit against the Char acter and reputation of your predecessor. of him for whom you profest the highest esteem and Friendship, and whom you certainly knew incapable of such complicated baseness. the remission of Callenders fine was a public approbation of his conduct. is not the last restraint of vice, a sense of shame, rendered abortive, if abandoned Characters do not excite abhorrence? If the chief Majestrate of a Nation, whose elevated station places him in a conspicuous light, and renders his every action a concern of general importance, permits his public con duct to be influenced by private resentment, and so far forgets what is due to his Character as to give countanance to a base Calumniater, is he not answerable for the influence which his example has upon the manners and morals of the community? untill I read Callenders seventh Letter containing your compliment to him as a writer, and your reward of 50 dollars, I could not be made to believe, that such measures could have been resorted to: to stab the fair fame, and upright intentions of one, who to use your own Lan guage, “was acting from an honest conviction in his own mind that he was right.” this Sir I considerd as a personal injury—this was the sword that cut assunder the Gordian knot, which could not be untied by all the efforts of party Spirit, by rivalship by Jealousy or any other malignant fiend. The serpent you cherished and warmed, bit the hand that nour ished him, and gave you sufficient specimens of his talents, his grati tude his justice, and his truth. When such vipers are let lose upon Society: all distinction between virtue and vice are levelled all respect for Character is lost in the overwhelming deluge of calumny, that re spect which is a necessary bond in the social union, which gives effi cacy to laws, and teaches the subject to obey the Majestrate, and the child to submit to the parent. There is one other act of your administration which I considerd as personally unkind, and which your own mind will readily suggest to you, but as it neither affected character or Reputation I forbear to state it. This Letter is written in confidence—No Eye but my own has seen what has passed. faithfull are the wounds of a Friend. often have I wished to have seen a different course pursued by you. I bear no mal ice I cherish no enmity. I would not retaliate if I could—nay more in the true spirit of christian Charity, I would forgive, as I hope to be forgiven. and with that disposition of mind and heart— I subscribe the Name of Abigail Adams 5
1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 10 July and so recorded in SJL. Dft (Lb in MHi: Adams Papers). appointed by your predecessor: TJ accepted the offers of Secretary of the Navy Benjamin Stoddert and Secretary of the Treasury Samuel Dexter to remain in office until replacements could be ap pointed, at which point they both resigned (Vol. 33:18, 505, 670). For TJ’s pardon of James T. Callender and the debate over the remission of his $200 sedition fine, see Vol. 33:157, 30910, 5735, and Vol. 34:1856, 190. Callender’s seventh letter, dated 7 July 1802 and addressed “To the Public,” appeared in the Richmond Recorder and
was widely reprinted. According to this letter, TJ had told Thomas Leiper in 1798 that Callender was “the best writer of Newspaper Paragraphs that he had ever seen either in America or Europe.” Cal lender also asserted that when TJ saw the unpublished specimen sheets of his Prospect Before Us, the president directed George Jefferson to pay the author a re ward of 50 dollars. He added that when the first part of the second volume went to press, TJ sent “unsolicited and unexpected, a second remittance to the same amount” (Springfield, Mass., Federal Spy, 3 Aug. 1802). 1
MS: “pratised.”
From Samuel H. Baker Sir Bath Steuben County July 1st. 1804— Having had it in contemplation to address your Excellency for some time past on the subject of the Agency of Indian affairs in this Quarter of America as fresh reports in this country say, that the office will be vacant if not already so I have taken the liberty of writing, and I flatter myself with the hope, that the subject may be taken into con sideration in behalf of my solicitations for that Post—my residence in this Country may be of some weight in your Choice— The Quallifications requisite I must leave to your better Judge ment but any information necessary on the subject may be readily had from some of your own relations near Montacello also in & near the City of washington— I can only say this much that I ever was, and still remain a warm advocate for the present sistem of government, and for more than three years meeting with but little might the difficulties of a New Country, and Beautys of the New England immagination my own con ceince under ordinary circumstances in life prompts me to think that I may merit in your opinion, with the rest of my fellow Citizens some share of the emoluments arising under the present government, and as I can truly say no man wants it more than I do I leave it to your own Consideration— and remain Yor. ob Humb servt Saml. H. Baker RC (PHi: Daniel Parker Papers); en dorsed by TJ as received 12 July and so
recorded in SJL with notations “to be Indian agent” and “W”; also endorsed by
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1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 TJ: “refd. to Secretary at war. I know nothing of the writer. Th:J.”; endorsed by Dearborn: “enquire who Saml. Baker is.” Samuel Hanson Baker (17731815) of Charles County, Maryland, was the son of Dr. William Baker and the nephew of Samuel Hanson of Samuel. By 1800, he was living in Washington. That year he claimed insolvency “by reason of many misfortunes.” By 1804, he had moved to Bath, New York, bringing with him a number of slaves. Sometime after the 1810 census he returned to Washington (Harry
Wright Newman, Charles County Gentry [Baltimore, 1971], 242; Laws of Maryland Made and Passed at a Session of Assembly, Begun and Held at the City of Annapolis on Monday the Fourth of November, in the Year of Our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Ninety-Nine [Annapolis, 1800], ch. 88; Millard F. Roberts, comp. and ed., Historical Gazetteer of Steuben County, New York [Syracuse, N.Y., 1891], 150; Washington Federalist, 26 Nov. 1800; Georgetown Federal Republican, 28 Feb. 1815; Vol. 34:208n).
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, NewOrleans July 1st. 1804. My official Letters to the Secretary of State, have advised you, of Mr. Livingston’s exertions to promote a Memorial to Congress, the object of which is to obtain the immediate recognition of Louisiana as a Member State of the Union. Mr. Livingston is supported by Messrs. Evan Jones and Daniel Clark, and there is no doubt but they will be joined by many french Inhabitants.—I have not seen the Memorial, but it is said to have been drafted by Mr. Livingston, and is represented as an ingenious piece of composition, & well calculated to please the people, when signatures are requested. The Right of Admission into the Union (the Memorial contends) grows out of the Treaty, and the faith of the U. States has been vio lated by the Acts of Congress in relation to Louisiana.—Many Griev ances are stated, & among others, “the introduction of the English Language in the Courts of Justice, the division of Louisiana: and the prohibition of the Slave Trade are particularly mentioned:—The Me morialists declare themselves to have been grossly misrepresented by Members of Congress and others; that they are not an uninformed People, and feel themselves perfectly competent to SelfGovernment.— Such is the imperfect sketch of a lengthy Memorial, which no doubt will be signed by many Persons and forwarded to Congress at the next Session by two or more Agents selected by the Memorialists for the occasion. What are the secret springs to this warmpth of patriotism or En thusiasm in Messrs. Livingston, Clark and Jones you may probably hazard a conjecture; But whatever may have been the Motives, they 7
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have Caused a flame in the District, which will not (I fear) shortly subside. My opinion is now and ever has been that the Louisianians are not yet prepared for an entire Representative System, and that they would not make a proper use of such weight as they might prema turely acquire in the National Scale;—I would also hazard a conjec ture, that if the Letters of Mr. Clark (while Consul) to the Govern ment were known, that he likewise had delivered like sentiments;—I am certain that General Wilkinson once accorded with me in senti ment, & I was impressed with an opinion that Mr. Livingston did not dissent;—But it seems, that these Gentlemen are now the advocates for an entire Representative Government in Louisiana;—General Wilkinson had joined the popular party previous to his departure from hence; but what part he may take at the Seat of Government I know not;— Altho’ I do not believe, Louisiana ought to be made a State, yet I do think it would be wise & just1 policy to introduce the Representative System with all safe Dispatch, & in pursuance of this plan, I should like to see the second Legislative Council elected by the People.—I can appeal with confidence to my Heart, and assert, that no Man is more attached to Republican, Representative Government than my self; But I cannot in my Conscience believe that a people just free’d from Despotism, and among whom the progress of Science, (what ever may be said to the contrary) is extremely limited, would manage with discretion, and direct with Judg’ment the important duties which devolve upon a free and independent State. Should however the construction of the Treaty contended for, be deemed correct, the question of the Admission of Louisiana into the Union, is no longer a question of policy, & I shall then console myself with the pleasing hope, that a few Years experience under our happy Constitution, will make the Louisianians zealous Members of our Re public, and firm Advocates of Civil and religious freedom.— For a Week past, I have laboured under a slight Indisposition; But unwilling to yield to disease, I continued in the discharge of my offi cial Duties, and I now feel myself nearly restored to health.— The early arrival of the Judges of the Orleans Territory is much wished for by the People; there are many important Law Cases that are postponed, and for the future, I am determined to take Cognizance of no suits that I can possibly avoid.—But I fear the Compensation allowed to the Judges will not permit their remaining in Office, but a short time.—It seems to me impossible for a Judge to support him self & family in this City, for 2000 Dolls pr annum. I give you my 8
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honor Sir, that for the last two Months, my Table Expenses alone amounted to 13 hundred Dollars, and that this amount was expended notwithstanding the exercise of a prudent œconomy.— So confident am I, that every Months residence here, is making great Inroads on my little Competency, that for this (as well as other reasons) I anxiously await the arrival of the first of October, and un less the permanent Governor should be a Man of large private Re sources, I fear (with a Salary of five thousand Dollars) he will find himself much embarrassed in two or three years.— With sentiments of Gratitude & Respect! I have the honor to sub scribe myself Your faithful friend William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); at foot of text: “To Thomas Jefferson President of the U. States”; en dorsed by TJ as received 18 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. my official letters to the secre tary of state: Claiborne to Madison, 3 June and 1 July 1804 (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:2801, 4056). On 26 July, Claiborne sent him a copy of the memorial to congress, printed in the
24 July edition of the Louisiana Gazette (same, 5246). The memorialists based their demands on the third article of the Louisiana treaty, which promised Louisi ana’s admission into the United States and full citizenship for its inhabitants “as soon as possible” (Vol. 40:6845). 1 Preceding word and ampersand inter lined.
From Pierre Samuel Du Pont de Nemours Paris 12 Messidor 12
Monsieur le Président, 1er. Juillet 1804. Il me parait inutile de vous dire combien je souffre de ne pouvoir encore me rendre auprès de vous, dans la République gouvernée par vos principes et Votre Sagesse. Vous Voyez l’Europe, mon Pays, et ce qui leur arrive. Vous con naissez mon esprit, mon cœur, les études, les travaux, les espérances philosophiques qui ont occupé ma Vie. Je désire en donner les derniers momens au développement des Institutions dont Vous avez bien voulu me demander le Plan pour l’éducation de la jeunesse américaine. Et peutêtre, si cela vous paraissait utile, je m’efforcerais de con courir à la consolidation des rapports entre vos anciennes Républiques conféderées et la nouvelle Nation que vous venez d’admettre parmi elles. 9
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C’est la Seule partie des Etats Unis dont je sache bien la langue; et non Seulement celle que l’on parle, qu’on écrit, qu’on apprend dans les grammaires, mais celle que l’on pense et que l’on sent, qui part de l’âme, et influe Sur l’âme, qui tient aux habitudes, aux mœurs, aux passions nationales. S’il n’y a pas beaucoup d’Américains qui puissent de même se faire entendre des Louisianais, il y a encore moins de Français en Amé rique qui connaissent et aiment comme moi les constitutions libres, les mœurs tranquilles, les manieres graves de votre Peuple mêlé d’Anglais, d’Ecossais, de Hollandais et d’Allemands. Je conclus de là que par la même raison que votre Nation m’est bonne et agréable, je puis aussi plus qu’un autre Français être agré able et utile à votre Nation, quand un Peuple Français vient à en faire partie. C’est une de mes honnêtes ambitions. Mais, dans mon Zêle pour mon ancienne Patrie, je me trouve avoir fait, il y a plus d’un an, au Gouvernement Français des avances qu’il ne m’a point encore remboursées, et, quel que soit mon empressement de retourner en Amérique, la raison m’oblige comme Négociant et comme Pere de Famille de ne partir qu’après que ce compte sera réglé. Dès qu’il le sera, que ce soit à perte ou à gain, je ne tarderai pas à voir les clochers de NewYork, les cascades du BrandyWine, et le Capitole de WashingtonCity. Vous m’avez promis votre appui et votre Protection pour ma belle Manufacture de Gun-Powder.—Lui avez vous donné votre Salpêtre à raffiner, et vos Poudres à rebattre? Je prie Votre Excellence de ne point oublier que c’est un Etablisse ment utile, que le Zêle de mes Enfans a créé, qui est conduit par mon second Fils, le meilleur Eleve du plus grand Chimiste de l’Europe, et qui appartient à votre Ami. Agréez avec votre bonté ordinaire mon respectueux attachement. Du Pont (de Nemours) Madame DuPont vous rend graces de votre Souvenir. e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Paris, 12 Messidor Year 12 Mister President, 1 July 1804 It seems pointless to tell you how much I suffer from not yet being able to be near you, in the republic governed by your wisdom and principles. You see what is happening to Europe and to my country. You know my thoughts and sentiments, the study, efforts, and philosophical ideals to which I have devoted my life.
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1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 I seek to contribute my last days to developing the educational institutions for young Americans that you were kind enough to ask me to plan. Perhaps, if it seems helpful to you, I could also work toward strengthening the relations between your previously federated states and the new nation you have just admitted to the union. This is the only part of the United States whose language I know well, not merely as it is spoken, written, and learned in grammar classes, but as it is thought and felt, the language that emerges from and shapes the soul, that is linked to habits, customs, and national passions. There are not many Americans who can communicate with Louisianians as well as I can. There are even fewer French people in America who know and love, as I do, the freedom, peacefulness, and serious demeanor of your citizenry, made up of English, Scots, Dutch, and Germans. This leads me to conclude that, just as your nation is pleasant and attrac tive to me, I can be more effective and useful to you than other Frenchmen when a French population joins your country. This is one of my sincere goals. In my zeal for my old country, I lent money to the French government more than a year ago that has not yet been reimbursed. However eager I may be to return to America, I am impelled, as a businessman and head of family, not to leave until this debt is settled. As soon as it is, whether at a profit or a loss, I will hasten to contemplate New York’s steeples, Brandywine’s waterfalls, and Washington’s Capitol. You promised support and protection for my superb gunpowder factory. Did you give it your saltpeter to be refined and your powder to be processed? I beg your Excellency not to forget that it is an estimable company, created by the hard work of my children, managed by my second son. He was the best student of Europe’s greatest chemist and he is the kin of your friend. Accept, with your characteristic kindness, my respectful attachment. Du Pont (de Nemours) Madame Du Pont thanks you for your wishes. RC (DLC); at head of text: “A Son Ex cellence Thomas Jefferson, Président des Etats Unis”; endorsed by TJ as received 12 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Dupl (same); at head of text: “Duplicata”; lacks postscript. des avances: the commercial firms headed by Du Pont and his son, Victor du Pont, loaned money to Louis André Pichon to buy American flour for French
forces during the attempted reconquest of SaintDomingue in 1802 and 1803. The French Treasury believed that Du Pont had charged usurious interest rates and declined to reimburse him (Ambrose Sar icks, Pierre Samuel Du Pont de Nemours [Lawrence, Kans., 1965], 3089. grand chimiste de l’europe: An toine Lavoisier. votre souvenir: see TJ to Du Pont, 19 Jan. 1804.
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From Ephraim Kirby Sir Fort Stoddert July 1st. 1804 A few days since, I was honored with your letter of April 10th. from Monticello, together with the Commission therein mentioned. No exertions shall be wanting to render myself useful to the public, and to justify the confidence reposed in me. The Board of Commissioners have for sometime past delayed to close the business before it, from an apprehension that the law had undergone material amendments during the last session of Congress; but having no advice from the seat of government on this subject, nor any certain information, the business will probably be concluded in a few days, and the Board dissolved.— On the 7th. of April, 20th. of April and 1st. of May, I wrote par ticularly concerning this country; I hope those letters have been re ceived. No interesting occurence has happened since, except that a small detachment of a Serjeant and fifteen men on their way from New Orleans to this Post with Contractors stores for the use of the Garrison, was detained a length of time at Mobile by the Spanish Comdt. of that place. a duty of 12 per Cent. upon the Stores, was demanded and paid; the men were still detained until the Govr. of West Florida, at Pensacola was consulted, who permitted them to pass.— Every thing at the mouth of this River appears menacing to the peace of the country.—The american inhabitants on the Tombigbee are impatient of their situation I have endeavoured to render them as contented as possible, by assuring them, that the Government of the United States, would not forget this section of its territories, and that every thing practicable would be effected for its relief.— I am Sir, with the highest respect Your Obedt. Servt Ephm Kirby July 2nd. Should a Treaty be held with the Indians in this part of the United States for the further extinguishment of their claims to lands, permit me to say, that I think the public will do well to avail itself of the services of Joseph Chambers Esqr.—This Gentn. is respected by the Indians, and is not only generally well informed, but particularly so in whatever relates to this subject.—If my own services are required on such an occasion, they will be yeilded without reluctance. Ephm Kirby RC (DLC); addressed: “His Excellency The President of the U. States Washing
ton”; endorsed by TJ as received 6 Sep. and so recorded in SJL.
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1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 a duty: in addition to the taxes placed upon U.S. public property, William Clai borne reported to Dearborn that the Span
ish were taxing all American exports pass ing through Mobile (Rowland, Claiborne Letter Books, 2:108; Kirby to TJ, 20 Apr.).
From Lafayette My dear friend draveïl 1st July I Have Received Your kind Letter dated March the 30th, and While I Most deeply feel My New Obligations to Your friendship I Wish I Could Conveniently Express the Respectful Sense I Have of the Additional favor Congress Have Been pleased to Confer Upon me—But I Have only a few Moments to improve the Opportunity that Offers—permit me therefore Merely to Aknowledge the Receipt of Your Letter, and to differ Answering it to the time of My Arrival at Mont d’or Where I Am Now Going to try to Recover the Use of My Broken limb—I Already Can Walk a little, But Am in Great Want of the Benefit Which is promised me there—My Wife Whose Health is far from Being Good Accompanies me to the Mineral Waters—I Wish she May Get Better—I Wish it the More as your Letter Made the proper, and of Course a deep impression Upon Myself and family— But I Shall write More fully in a few days, and Content Myself With the Exposition of the lively Gratitude and High Respect of Your Af fectionate friend Lafayette You Will Soon Hear that General Moreau is Going to America—I know too Well the Citizens of the United States and their Govern ment not to be Assured this Great and Good Man Will Meet there With the Reception due to His public and private Character. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 24 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
For the exile of Jean Victor moreau for participating in an assassination plot against Napoleon, see Vol. 42:549, 550n, and Vol. 43:333, 334.
From John Taylor Dear Sir Virga. Caroline July 1. 1804 I herewith send you the Swedish turnip seed promised. This spe cies of turnip seems to me to require earlier sowing than the common kind, to be drilled and cultivated. Accept the highest esteem and re spect, of, Sir, Yr: mo: obt: St. John Taylor 13
1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 RC (ViU); endorsed by TJ as received 5 July, but recorded in SJL as received 6 July.
TJ had introduced the swedish tur nip, or rutabaga, to Taylor in 1795, and tried to cultivate it at Monticello through out his life (Betts, Garden Book, 390, 443, 565, 594; rs, 2:4812; Vol. 28:3834).
From James Wilkinson, with Jefferson’s Note July 1st. 1804.
General Wilkinson has the Honor to submit, to the private Inspec tion of the President, Portraits of several prominent Characters in Louisiana, (the Territory of Orleans) from the Pens of two Gentlemen, strangers to each other, of different Nations & opposite prejudices— The one a French Man, the other an Atlantic American—But both of them, decidedly opposed to the French Government, & as favourably inclined to that of the United States.—It may be proper to remark, that Genl. W.s opinion is adverse, in several instances, to those which have been communicated to Him—The Genl. believes that Mr. Bore’s resignation may be made a salutary Event, and He takes the Liberty to inclose, to the president—a Letter from Mr Villar formerly resident of Louis the 16th. at New Orleans, respecting the Verbena Aubletia of Louisiana.— [Note by TJ:] Verbena Aubletia, or Verveine rose l’herbe à glacer l’eau. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 1 July and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure from Villar not found. bore’s resignation: discontented with U.S. governance, Jean Étienne Boré resigned as mayor of New Orleans on 26 May. William C. C. Claiborne appointed James Pitot to the office on 2 June. Boré continued to protest aspects of the terri torial plan, and on 27 June the New Or leans Telegraphe published his response to a letter from a local proU.S. group, which had argued that Article 4, Section 3 of the Constitution authorized Congress to organize the territory in any manner it
saw fit. Boré countered that the Constitu tion’s provisions on territorial government applied to unoccupied lands (“non ha bités”) and that the purchase treaty with France had guaranteed the rights of Lou isiana’s citizens. The territorial plan, ac cording to Boré, established a system of governance that violated residents’ natu ral rights, and he asserted that he would continue to voice his disagreement as a republican was entitled to do. A copy of the Telegraphe issue is in TJ’s papers (DLC: TJ Papers, 138:239412, endorsed by TJ: “Boré”; Bradley, Interim Appointment, 256; Vol. 42:441n).
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e n c l o s u r e s
I Character Sketches of Orleans Residents, with Jefferson’s Notes 1.
2.
3.
4. 5.
6
7.
8.
No. 1st Mr Boree, A man of mean extraction, without abilities either natural or acquir’d, of some fortune, well connected, consequently of some weight in society, in which he lives, Though of none in the prov ince at large—He is principally distinguishd by his vanity & a blind attatchment to the French Nation— No. 2d Mr Merieux; Resembles Mr Boree as to his birth and edu cation, he is industrious enterprising & indefatigable in business, of which he has done a great deal, though he is not a Merchant, he is supposed to be Rich & wishes to be thought so, his character is far from being thought amiable, he is vain ostentatious & overbearing; & in his dealings said to entertain vague Ideas of meum & Tuum—For the weight he possesses in Society he is entirely indebted to a very large Capital of which he has the disposal As to country he will always give the preference to that in which he can make most money & Ap pear the greatest man—with this difference, that being born a French man, like every other of that nation he would prefer the Interests of France on equal terms to those of any other people— No. 3d Mezange—This character may be drawn in a few words, He has much understanding and competent knowledge of the Laws & Customs by which this Country has been governd for these thirty years past; apparently attatchd to the Spanish Government, but in reality a Frenchman—he is plausible, cunning, designing & equal to Judas himself in point of perfidy; Such a man can never be esteem’d, but his talents especially for doing Mischief give him a certain degree of con sequence in the country— No 4 & 5th. Lanusse & Petit—Are men of tolerable understanding, plain moderate, & of good Reputation, having been long in business & being pretty well connected, they have acquir’d a certain degree of Respectability in Society— No 6th Mr Faurie—Having done a great deal of commission busi ness is naturally ranked amongst the first Merchants in N.O. Tho a Young Man, he is not deficient in point of understanding; he good Natur’d Sociable1 and fond of amusements—the most remarkable trait in his Character is furious devotion to France & her Interests— No 7th Mr Detrehan, is a sensible man Rich and of extensive connec tions; his Reputation is extremely fair, & his weight in the country considerable, in short he is one of the most Respectable men in the Province— No 8. Mr Dorsiere is a man of very little standing in the Society—his talents appear by no means Shining & he has neither Fortune or con nections to give him weight, he has always passed for a very decent honest man which character he probably deserves,—
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1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 9.
10.
11.
12. 13. 14. 15 16. 17 18. 19 20 21 22 23. 24 25 26 27.
No 9. Mr Paysarey or Payfare; is a man of some consequence in2 the country which he seems to have acquird as Antiques do their value; he is honest & well disposed, but Ardent volatile & vain, he is possess’d of some knowledge but his extreme vivacity renders it of no value, If Ten thousand words & phrases cut out of as many Books should be all jumbled together without any Order or connection they would give so idea of Mr Ps mind— No 10 Mr. Fortier—This man is pretty Rich which added to a pretty extensive family connection gives him a consideration which neither his talents nor mode of life would have done. His understanding is much below mediocrity, but he may be honest, & is certainly hospitable— Eating & Drinking are his Fort— No 11 Mr Clouet, This Gentleman is of a respectable family of which he may be look’d upon as the head, tho he is a younger Brother, he is supposed by some to be Rich & is at least in possession of a good deal of property, his Education was bad but his Natural Understanding strong, Fond of amusements, but little delicate in his choice of them better fitted to a Military than Civil Walk in life—an extreme violence of disposition is the most prominent trait in his character, Attatchd to the Spanish government— No 12 Mr Pitot; is said to be a man of some information, but his van ity, his pedantry & arrogance render him disagreable to most people, He thinks the French the first of nations & himself the first French men—his consequence in Society is but small—No 13 Mr Lanthis—is Simply a Cutter of Capers—No 14 Mr Labattus—a plain quiet of good Reputation, but Slender abilities—No 15 Mr Duplessis A man of good natural understanding though of little education, Sober, indus trious & thriving in business—No 16 Mr Cuitergue—does not want a tolerable degree of information, his circumstances are easy, his reputa tion good, & leads a quiet3 & private life, apparently free from the am bition of making a figure in public—No 17. Mr Chiappella—A beast in grain; without the smallest education talents or Respectability tho one of the Richest men in the Country— No 18 Mr Porée; a man of property but no way distinguishd—No 19 Mr Allard—a4 of quiet well meaning man of slender abilities but fair Reputation & well esteem’d—No 20th Mr Livandois junr. a Young man of some education & talents but extremely vain and Dogmatick, strongly attatchd to the Great5 Republic, His Father a mere Cypher—21 a quiet inoffensive old man, wealthy, respected & well connected but weak; 22d A man of considerable fortune & very good connections with a very tolerable understanding; principally distinguishd by his attatchment to France & mammon—23 Mr Breton Orgenois; A Rich planter well connected, of long standing & of some weight he passes for an Oracle where Apollo has few Temples, he is however a Respect able man—24 Cavelier; a young man of good Reputation out of whose abilities I am quite ignorant;—25 Gullote—A Stranger quite unknown to me & the Province in general. 26th Debuys—A merchant who has done some commission business of somewhat doubtful circumstances & very moderate Talents, his weight in the Society not great—27 Argoti— A man of good deal of information particularly in matters respecting
16
1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 the Spanish Laws & Government of doubtful morals. & much addicted to Gaming—28 Derbigny—A man (young) of talents but without for tune or connections Genteel, Sober & industrious, but not very gener ally esteemd—his principles not free from Suspicion, & much attatchd to his native Country—29 De La Hogue—Lately arrived in the coun 29 try, of no sort of consequence, & not apparently enjoying the confidence of those who know him I do not—30 Soutier—A decent quiet man of 30 good Reputation, & common understanding but of no weight in the Society—31 Girandeau—a person of very suspicious character & no 31 Respectability—32d Mather—A very well disposed hospitable planter, 32. of good understanding but unfortunate in his circumstances, his pro bity was never questiond but of late, his former partner accuses him of applying the joint Capital to his own use, but such charges are a frequently ill founded—33 & 34 Young men not particularly 33. 34. distinguish’d—35 Emery—Not in New Orleans—36 Ducouneaux— 35. 36 37. 38 39. An insignificant babbling Creature—37 38 & 39. C. & H. the two worthies next to her execrable Rascals—40 Morgan A merchant 40. of Reputation Not deficient in point of understanding— 28
41.
42. 43.
44 45.
46.
47. 48.
Mr Boreé, (Planter). he is rich & enterprising fond of agricultural improvements, however he is ignorant & destitute of any knowledge or talents relative to political or Civil government; of an high & as suming temper pluming himself upon a certain influence which he claims from his wealth; but upon the whole he is rather unpopular & is gerally hated by his Country men Creole Morals— Jean Meriere, Merchant—Man of a much neglected Education good luck & success in Trade have render’d him Self Sufficient, and rather haughty imperious & unpopular, Morals doubtful—Mr Marange Senr. Planter a man Tolerably well acquainted with French & Spanish Laws, he has been successively Clerk of the Court, Attorney & Coun sellor under the French & Spanish Gov’ts. Phlegmatick, patient & conciliating, but possessed of a small share of influence over his Coun try men, Good Morals— Paul Lanusse Merchant; well acquainted with commercial business, but unfit for Political or Civil appointments; of a mild temper without Energy, rather inclined to dissimulation; Indifferent Morals Mr Petit, Merchant; Englishman born well informed, the friend of Order & public good, perfectly acquainted with all the Resources & Interests of the Province, friendly to the american Government active & ener getick, in short a man of very influential character; Good Morals— Mr Faurie (Merchant) a man of Refin’d education, of mild & insinuat ing manners, having travelld through all the European countries he has acquired a great knowledge of mankind, & from the General es teem he enjoys may hereafter acquire a certain share of Influence; but he is not to be trusted immediately with important Offices by the amer ican Government—pretty good morals Mr Detrihan (Planter) a well informed man, of mild & amiable Tem per, possessed of the greatest share of influence among his Country men, more energetick & pleasing that of Mr Boree; Rich without osten tation, upright & virtuous—Mr Dorsiere, Merchant, a well informed
17
1 J U LY 1 8 0 4
49. 50. 51.
52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57.
58. 59. 60 61. 62. 63.
64 65.
mild & energetick, possess’d with sound & deliberate mind full of in tegrity, he is more friendly to the american Government being born in the mountains Swisserland, where in his cradle he imbibed principles of Liberty, he is the friend of Order & much attatchd to the welfare of this province, Upright & virtuous Morals— Mr Paysarly (a retired merchant)—pretty well informed, but rather conceited and obstinate, talkative & fond of controversy, boasting of his small share of political abilities—dubious morals— Michael Fortier, Merchant—Rich. ignorant, Creole, rather hasty presumptuous, obstinate & intemperate, warm Friend of the Prefect Laussat, but without influence—no morals,—Mr Brugny de Clouet, Rich ignorant Creole, more fit for military appointment than a Civil post—a declar’d foe to Laussat, a friend to the A. Government,—NB. a man of great influence, Generally beloved & esteem’d by his Coun try men—Creole morals—Mr Pitot, Merchant tolerably well informed, but of low flattering disposition, a bosom friend of Boree possessed of no influence—pretty good morals— Mr Lanthois partner of Mr Pitot, an ordinary man, cunning & active but without any influence, tolerably disposed towards the american Government—indifferent morals—Mr Labattus Merchant, a man of very narrow abilities, uniting a great degree of Levity to a mild temper, & more fit to be govern’d than to govern others, indifferent morals. Mr Francis Duplessis, (Mt) not destitute of information but an in trigueing man who will not hesitate about the means, whenever they can accomplish his designs. sober & good morals— Mr Cuisergue Retired Merchant)—well informed attatchd to good Order & Justice, rather Cosmopolite, than attatchd to any particular sort of Government—Good morals inclined to satire—Jerome Chia pella Merchant—Born in Genoa rich but deeply ignorant much de voted to the Spanish Govt, from which he Receivd many favours; however incapable of holding any Office—dubious morals Thomas Poree, Planter. an ordinary man, mild & peaceable. true friend of Order & the public welfare—good morals— Mr Allard Senr, Planter—& formerly an Officer in the French service an ordinary character, a friend to order & well wisher of the province Tho. very little acquainted with political or civil affairs, Good morals Mr Livandais senr planter—Very ordinary man but without any influence—a great friend of the prefect Laussat indifferent morals— Livandais Junr. like his Father—Mr Prevost planter, formerly em ployd by the Spanish government but a man destitute of any sort of Talents—tolerable morals—Mr D’hebecont—School Master, formerly an officer in French Service, well informed, of mild & pleasing dispo sition, a great Friend of the american Government, well acquainted with the English language he is fit to fill any Civil or Military post he seems best fitted for the first—Upright & good morals—M De Breton Orgenois planter—a well informed man mild & peaceable, Rich & with good reputation—virtuous morals Mr Cavelier junr, a man of common abilities, but mild & Phlegmatick, he enjoys the general esteem of his country men & may in time fill up some civil Office—
18
1 J U LY 1 8 0 4
66.
67.
68. 69.
70.
71.
72. 73. 74. 75. 76. 77.
N Bene, It would be needless to delineate here such merchant as have come from the US, the A Got. doubtless is well acquainted with them all—such as Messr Clark Jones &ca &ca—from further invistigation it seems Mr Clarke is rather an English man at heart, that he is unpopu lar 6 & too assuming here. therefore it might be unwise to countenance at present his cunning & overbearing pretensions— Pierre a Guillot, formerly a Gentleman in the French Service a brave young officer, great diciplinarian, naturalized & american Citizen—he is active of an amiable & mild temper, well informed in military tactics but more particularly fit to command any corps of Cavalry, such as the intended Marechausséé for the Security of the City & plantations along the River. upright & virtuous morals— Gaspard Debuis. merchant—a well informed man of correct Judge ment—active Magistrate; The friend of good order & the American Govt—upright & virtuous morals—Antonio Argoti, now president of the Municipality, tolerably well acquainted with the Spanish Laws, he was formerly a clerk & Attorney, & tho he is employ’d by the pres ent Municipality he remains as prejudiced as ever in favor of the Spaniards; he cannot speak a word of English, he is rather stubborn & Self conceited, & finally unfit to hold any office under the american Government—Great Gambler & of very loose Morals— Pre Derbigny, formerly Tutor now a clerk of the Court a man of some information, but a crouching cunning & artful Camelopard, ungrate ful to the Spanish Govt by which he was employ’d, because a devoted Friend of Laussat & Boreé; in short dangerous & not to be trusted with any office, decent Morals— M. B. De La Hogue—late adventurer from St Domingo a crouching cunning Hypocrite, & a dangerous intriguer; the Friend & protegée of Boree, the crony of the abovementiond Derbigny—they go hand in hand & may be calld a complete pair, sober & temperate— List of all the most virtuous & eminent characters & the best qualified to Compose a Supreme Court of Justice, or to hold any civil Office in New Orleans under the American Govt. Mr Petits—drawn among the first portraits, Mr Eugene Dorsierere, one of the judges of common pleas Mr Gaspard Debuis also one of the Judges of Ditto— Mr Faurie—also drawn in first portraits Mr L Soulier, an honest Merchant & will informed man Mr Giraudeau, a well informed Planter &ca &ca—
List of the most Recommedable persons for military offices— 78 79 Pre A Guillot already drawn—33. years old—Domenique Bouligny, 80 81. young Officer of merit & the son of a respectable planter—Mr Desi 82 83 84. lets, Mr Emery—Mr Marigny the eldest—Mr Ducourneaux a Planter [Notes by TJ:] Borée. 1. 41. 84. Merieux. 2. 42. Eng. Mezange. 3. 43. Lanusse. 4. 44.
19
1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 * Petit. 5. 45. 72. Eng. 98. Faurie. 6. 46. 75. Eng. 99. 112. * Detrehan. 7. 47. 85. 116 + Dorsiere. 8. 48. 73. Eng. 94. Paysarey 9. 49. Fortier. 10. 50. Eng. + Clouet. 11. 51. 109 Pitot. 12. 52. Eng. 100. Lanthois. 13. 53. Lavattus. 14. 54. Duplessis. 15. 55. Eng. + Cuisergue. 16. 56. 106. Chiapella. 17. 57. Porée. 18. 58 + Allard. 19. 59. Livandois. junr. 20. 61. Livandois. senr. 21. 60. + Breton Orgenois. 23. 64. 105. Cavalier. 24. 65. Eng. Zenon & Anthony. + Gullote. 25. Guillot. 67. 78. 104. + Debuys. 26. 68. 74. Eng. Argoti. 27. 69. Derbigny. 28. 70. Eng. 115 De la Hogue 29. 71. Soutier. 30 Soulier. 76. Girardeau. 31. 77. Mather. 32. Emery. 35. 82. Ducouneaux. 36. 84. Morgan. 40. Prevost. 62. D’hebevent, or D’hebecourt. 63. Clarke Danl. 66. Bouligny 79. Desilets. 81. Marigny 83. Poydras. 86. 113. Duplantier. 87. 114. Cantarelle. 88. Lavandois. senr. 89. Prevost. 90. Evan Jones 91. 118. Danl. Clarke 92. Dr. Mountague 93. Bellechasse. 95. 111. Dr. Dow. 96. Thos. Urquhart. 97. 110. Sauvé. 117. De la bigarre. 119. B. Morgan. 101.
20
1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 George Pollock. 102. Beverley Chew. 103. Roman. 107. Wikoff. 108. These characters were drawn by Evan Jones who has resided 35. years at N. Orleans, and (*the 2d set perhaps) by Labigarre, who only visited the country for 6. or 9 months, but being of an inquisitive intriguing turn could learn much in that time; a Frenchman by birth but an American in all his partialities. he is a man of understanding, but of so so reputation, he married a Livingston, sells Antiseptic gas &c *see 66. which being of the 2d. set, & speakg. of Jones, makes it probable he did not write it. MS (DNA: RG 59, LAR, 1:9318); un dated; in an unidentified hand; numbers added by TJ in margin shown in italics; endorsed by TJ: “Orleans. characters.” merieux: Jean François Merieult. meum & tuum: what is mine and what is yours (oed). Attorney and planter Leonardo Mazange (mezange) held a number of offices under the cabildo, or Spanish municipal government, of New Orleans, including síndico procurador general (public advo cate) and escribano (Gilbert C. Din and John E. Harkins, The New Orleans Cabildo: Colonial Louisiana’s First City Government, 1769-1803 [Baton Rouge, 1996], 68, 72, 77, 116; Gilbert C. Din, Spaniards, Planters, and Slaves: The Spanish Regulation of Slavery in Louisiana, 1763-1803 [College Station, Texas, 1999], 93, 97, 11112). paysarey or payfare: Jean Baptiste Poeyfarré, another former síndico procurador general at New Orleans (Din and Harkins, New Orleans Cabildo, 72, 177). cuitergue: probably Francis (Fran cisco) Caisergues, another former official under the New Orleans cabildo (Din and Harkins, New Orleans Cabildo, 69, 72, 175, 247; Documents in Support of the Right of the Inhabitants of the City of New Orleans, to the Alluvion in Front of the Suburb St. Mary, Contested by Jean Gravier [Washington, D.C., 1809], 48). soutier: probably Jean Soulié, who was elected a director of the Louisiana Bank in early 1805 (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:472).
prevost: probably Salomon Prevost, the last síndico procurador general of the cabildo (Din and Harkins, New Orleans Cabildo, 72). d’hebecont: a New Orleans directory for 1807 listed a schoolteacher named D’hébécour (Barthélémy Lafon, Calendrier de Commerce de la Nouvelle-Orleans, pour l’Année 1807 [New Orleans, 1806?], 78). marechausséé: a marshalcy, meaning a protective armed force (see Vol. 41:33, 648). Beginning with Julien poydras, the names listed by TJ are from Enclosure ii. the 2d set perhaps: although there is no break in the document printed above, TJ understood the list to be a compilation from two sources, as James Wilkinson indicated in the cover letter. What TJ called the second set began with the second entry for Jean Étienne Boré (TJ’s number 41). It is not known when TJ received information that al lowed him to associate Evan Jones and Peter Delabigarre with the responses, but it was by 20 Aug. (see Gallatin’s let ter of that date). TJ evidently drew on the lists from Wilkinson as he considered Orleans Territory appointments in July (see Notes on Appointments, [ca. July 1804] and [before 30 Aug. 1804]).
21
1 MS:
“Soiable.” “in in.” 3 MS: “quet.” 4 The writer here canceled “man.” 5 MS: “Geat.” 6 MS: “upopular.” 2 MS:
II Comments on Orleans Residents, with Jefferson’s Notes 84.
85. 86.
87.
88. 89.
90. 91. 92. 93. 94. 95
96.
Borés—Character is not fully drawn,—for it might be said, that he is Industrious; Honorable in all his transactions, the ablest agriculturist in the Province and the author of the culture of Sugar, but He does not speak a word of English. Detrihan—is well described, but does not understand English. Poydras—of Pointe Coupeé, the Patron Friend & Representative of that very opulent Settlement—In conduct and sentiment a Republican,— of immense fortune—of education and travel—He speaks the three lan guages of the Province and is fond of politics. Duplantier—of Batton Rouge—Aid de Camp to the Marquis de la Fayette towards the close of our Revolution, holds with the principles of those times,—His fortune and influence very extensive—of good understanding, and speaks the three languages of the Province. Cantarelle—Commandant of the German or Acadien Coast time im memorial, a man universally revered but understands the French and Spanish languages only. Lavandois Senr.—is one of the oldest Creoles of the Province and altho illiterate and ignorant, His fair character, gentlemany deport ment, immense fortune (near the City) and host of connexions, render Him acceptable and respectable. Mr. Prevost.—may in almost every respect be compared to Mr. La vandois, Evan Jones married His sister and will govern his politics. Evan Jones—a man of education, an American by birth and by at tachment, He is talented, proud high spirited, rich, ardent and decisive, at sixty five years of age. one of the 6. nomd for deputn to Congr. Mr. D. Clark—possesses capicities to do more good or harm than any other individual in the province—He pants for power, and is morti fied by disappointment Doctor Montague—a gentleman advanced in years who has grown with the City of New Orleans, and is held in much respect in point of Character, Conduct Family and Fortune. Dorsieres character is greatly overated, he was formerly a dancing master in Philadelphia, but He is doubtless a man of good disposition and fair character, tho destitute of influence. Colonel Bellechasse—Commandant of the City Militia; formerly a Spanish Officer of considerable repute, a Creole of the Country, unlet tered but of sound understanding, feared by some and loved by many from the Canaille to the first Notable—He is, on sober reflection, a de cided American, having seen a great deal of our conduct and manners, at several points of Command, between St. Louis and Natchez Doctor Dow—a Scotch Man, of about thirty years residence in the Province, at the head of his profession and universally beloved because of his amiable disposition, his humanity, and his urbanity—speaks the three languages of the Province.
22
1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 97.
Thomas Urquhart,—a Creole of the Country and a respectable Mer chant, educated in England thirty years of age, of which I have known Him Sixteen, a man highly popular with those of his age; and much respected by all, for his good sense discretion and integrity—He is independant, decisive, full of action; and a mortal foe to every disor derly and irregular proposition. speaks & writes the three Languages 98. Mr. Petit—possesses neither energy nor influence, but is a good man. one of the 6. nomd for deputn to Congress. 47. votes1 99 Faurie,—a warm headed warm hearted man, of polished education and manners, who understands too well the value of reputation, to dis honor himself by taking an office, which he does not mean to execute with zeal and fidelity—He is master of our language, and is every where acceptable in society 100. Pitot—is equal to Fourie in manners, with much more dignity of deportment and a more solid understanding, but either a conscious ness of his superiority, or a contempt for the society in which He finds Himself, has given an offensive cast of supercilious reserve to his character. 101. B. Morgan—is well known 102. George Pollock—an Irishman, but long in New York—a merchant respectably connected, has been active in the support of Governor Claiborne and commands an Independent Company—Mr. Pollock is beyound doubt one of the best educated, best informed and most polished Citizens of New Orleans, where his family and fortune are rooted. 103. Beverly Chew—of Virginia connected with M. D. Clark, is a man of very respectable standing and most deservedly so—He loves his Country and is a Zealot in its support—He has served Gover. Clai borne essentially 104. Pierre a Guillote—is an adventurer of the day and a perfect stranger. 105. Le Breton d’orgenois—is well described. 106. Ceysergues or Caisergues—character is well drawn 107. Mr. Roman of the Attakapas is a man of considerable fortune and influence in that settlement, and is reputed a man of sound character without ambition. 108. Wikoff of the Appalousa an American, is reputed the man of first fortune and influence there (for in Louisiana they are inseparable) and it is certain he was among the most early setlers, but He is ignorant 109. B. Declouits character has been well drawn 110. I beg to suggest the idea, that Mr. Urquhart would make the more efficient and safest Marchall to be found in the Territory, at the same time Bellechasse would be more popular, and Faurie in point of capac 111 ity would be equal to either of them.—should a Secretary be made in 112 113. the Province, I think Poydras or Duplantier would fill the place with 114. accommodation and effect. [Notes by TJ:] 115 Derbigny. a native of France, of good information & strict integrity, pleased with the principles of our govm’t but much attached to his native country. speaks English. C. 111. votes
23
1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 116 117
118. 119.
Detrehan a native Frenchman in politics & affections, was one of the tools of M. Laussat & greatly mortified at the cession of Louisiana to the US wealthy does not speak English. C. 103. votes Sauvé a French native. an amiable good man a wealthy planter uni versally esteemed by his neighbors & will be a good citizen under our government, but probably will take little part in the agency. Speaks English. C. 67. votes Evan Jones. his manners stiff, but his integrity irreprochable, has de cent talents & a better knolege of the province than any other American G. 55. votes. Labigarre who wrote one of the lists of characters for W. is & always was totally unprincipled & no confidence ought to be placed in what he says. Gl. A.
MS (DNA: RG 59, LAR, 1:93943); undated; in an unidentified hand (not the same hand as Enclosure i); numbers added by TJ in margin and two notations by him shown in italics; endorsed by TJ: “Orleans Characters. confidential”; en dorsed by a clerk: “Orleans Characters.” one of the 6. nomd for deputn to congr.: for the Louisiana memorial to Congress, see William C. C. Claiborne to TJ, 1 July. Although the document printed above is not in James Wilkinson’s hand, the ref erence to a 16year acquaintance with thomas urquhart points to Wilkin son. During his first visit to New Orleans in 1787, Wilkinson stayed with Dr. Rob ert Dow (number 96 above) and his wife, Angélica Monsanto. Urquhart was An gélica Dow’s son from a previous marriage (James Wilkinson, Memoirs of My Own Times, 3 vols. [Philadelphia, 1816; reprint New York, 1973], 2:1089; Bertram Wal
lace Korn, The Early Jews of New Orleans [Waltham, Mass., 1969], 504). A meeting in New Orleans on 8 July elected Pierre derbigny, Jean Noël Des tréhan (detrehan), and Pierre sauvé as deputies to take the memorial to Washington (Relfs Philadelphia Gazette, 17 Aug.; National Intelligencer, 24 Aug.). TJ used a “C” in his notes to indicate that he took his information about Der bigny, Destréhan, and Sauvé from a pri vate letter that Claiborne wrote to Madi son on 13 July (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:4489; see Madison to TJ, 18 Aug.). TJ put a “G” in his notes on Evan Jones and Peter Delabigarre (la bigarre) as a citation to Gallatin to TJ, 20 Aug. For Delabigarre, Gallatin’s source was John Armstrong of New York, whom TJ often identified as General Armstrong (gl. a.). 1 At the beginning of his notation, TJ canceled “chosen of the commee.”
From William O. Callis Sir, Louisa 2d July 1804 I have a son upwards of Eighteen years old, stout, healthy and strong; he is well calculated for, and wishes to embrace a Maratime life, provided he could be placed in a proper situation on board some Ship belonging to the United States.—This is intended to request of your Excellency some such appointment for him.— 24
2 J U LY 1 8 0 4
Unhackneied in the ways of solicitation (this being my first effort) your Excellency will excuse the manner of this address, and whatever other defects it may have, will do me the justice to believe, that want of respect for your public and private character, is not amongst the number.— With high consideration and respect I am Sir, Yr. Hum. Sert. W. O. Callis RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 12 July and “his son to be Midshipman” and so recorded in SJL.
a son: Cleon M. Callis (ndbw, Register, 9).
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir July 2d 1804 I have read with great attention Mr Lincoln’s opinion: it is inge nious and may be solid; but I am very confident that we will be de feated if we attempt to bring the subject before a court; that, however, may not be a reason sufficient to prevent your doing what is thought right. The act itself is scandalous and dangerous to the peace of the nation: if not legally criminal, it certainly ought to be made so. Receiving no answer from Mr Muhlenberg on the subject of bind ing masters of armed vessels to their good behaviour &c., I gave him a private hint; to which, in a private letter he answers “I shall pay strict attention to the way you have pointed out to bring the business before the district judge, in case any vessel should by her arming give cause of suspicion that she might be employed in acts of hostility, con trary to the laws of the U. States. The district attorney has furnished me with the forms necessary to conduct the business.” It appears therefore that no case has, since my letter, occurred on which to try the question: and the question now arises whether, without waiting for a decision there, similar instructions shall be made circular to the several collectors. The Spanish minister has made an application on the subject of the vessel at Norfolk. As we will have hundred vessels which will put in distress in Spanish ports for one Spanish here, it is certainly our in terest to give to the treaty the most liberal construction which in your opinion is the only correct one. I have drawn the sketch of an answer which is enclosed and submitted. I do not know how far it may be proper for me1 to use your name or to speak of Congress to a foreign minister. 25
2 J U LY 1 8 0 4
Gen. Wilkinson informed me that Cap. Schuyler having resided three years at Fort Stoddart had, on account of the unhealthiness of the situation asked and obtained a removal to another place. I, there fore, detained the commission which was yet in the Comptroller’s office. The question recurs whom to appoint? G. Wilkinson recom mends a Lieut. Edmund Penddleton Gaines now in the city & who is ordered to repair to that Fort, not, however, as the commanding officer. Two recommendations for New Bedford and Marietta are enclosed: in respect to the last, it will be best to wait until we hear from the other republicans there; the death of G. Greene has not been officially announced to the department. Of the propriety of removing Mr Pope I am no judge; but consider the Massachussets & other N.E. federal ists as such enragés and so incorrigible & hostile to Government and to the Union that so far as my own opinion may have been against removals, it has, in respect to that part of the Union, undergone a compleat revolution; and I consider it as a mere question of policy— Respectfully Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Presi dent of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury De partment on 2 July and “Presidt. insurce. N.Y.—armd vessels—Span. vessel Gaines Collectr. Fort Stoddert—Greene—Chad dock” and so recorded in SJL. Enclo sures: (1) Probably a draft of Gallatin to Carlos Martínez de Irujo, 30 June, in forming the Spanish minister that the owners of the Nuestra Señora de la Merced, alias Nancy, will have to post bond on the cargo, but that he will instruct the collector at Norfolk “not to press their payment,” in expectation that Congress will consider the matter at its next ses sion (Tr in ViHi: Papers of the Spanish Consulate in Norfolk, 17951846). (2) Eli Haskell to Gallatin, 20 June, recommend ing the removal of the current collector at New Bedford and appointing the Rev erend Calvin Chaddock in his place; Haskell encloses a petition to Gallatin, dated 3 June and signed by Nathan Wil lis, Albert Smith, John Tinkham, Caleb Briggs, John D. Dunbar, and James War ren, Jr., stating that the New Bedford col lectorship has been used to support the Federalists and the current collector is a “high party man”; they recommend Chad dock for the office; with memorandum by
Gallatin on Haskell’s letter: “I presume that Gen. Dearborne & Mr Lincoln may give information respecting the character of the petitioners &c. I know but one vizt. A. Smith son of the republican member of Congress who died of the small pox two years ago. The son is a man of sense, who furnished us with proofs of the mis conduct of Watson the collector of Plym outh. He was last spring candidate for the State Senate, and is now, I am told, the republican candidate for Congress—AG. Pope is married to speculator Greenleaf’s sister; and Greenleaf last winter asked several times whether his brother in law was not in danger” (RCs in DNA: RG 59, LAR; petition of Willis and others endorsed by TJ: “Chaddock Calvin to be Collector for New Bedford v. Pope”). (3) Samuel Sprague to Gallatin, New Bed ford, 22 June, recommending Chaddock as a minister, the founder of an academy at Rochester, Massachusetts, a supporter of TJ’s administration, and a “universal friend to mankind”; Sprague identifies himself as the only surviving brother of John Sprague and refers Gallatin to Levi Lincoln for information on his family (RC in same; endorsed by TJ: “Chad dock Calvin to be Collector N. Bedford”). (4) Jared Mansfield to Gallatin, Marietta,
26
2 J U LY 1 8 0 4 11 June, reporting the death of Griffin Greene, the collector at Marietta, and recommending his son, Philip Greene, as his successor; the “principal men of the republicans” are absent, otherwise Mans field would not have written, but he knows that they wish the appointment of Philip Greene due to his character and his at tachment to the present administration
(RC in same; endorsed by TJ: “Greene Philip to be Collector Marietta. v. Griffin Greene decd.”). mr lincoln’s opinion: see Lincoln to TJ, 25 June. 1 Two
words interlined.
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir 2 July 1804 So far as relates to the business of the office, I might complete & arrange every thing within a week so as to be able to leave the city: if I could otherways be spared, your permission to go would be agree able, on account of the situation of my family, and because Mrs. Gal latin’s situation will compel me to return pretty early in September. As I will have to encounter that month here, I wish to collect as few early feverish seeds as possible. At the same time I mean not to press in the least, if I am wanted; but if there is any particular thing con nected with this department to be done before your departure, I will be much obliged to you if you will have the goodness to communicate it as early as may be convenient. Respectfully Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); addressed: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 2 July and “absence” and so recorded in SJL. Gallatin planned his annual summer vacation to New York to join his family already assembled at the home of his in laws in Greenwich. In a letter of 24 June, his wife expressed concerns that their chil dren were making noise that “irritates and disturbs their sick Grandpapa.” Her ailing father, Commodore James Nichol son, who remained in precarious health over the summer, died on 2 Sep. (Galla tin, Papers, 9:772, 861, 943, 965; New York American Citizen, 3 Sep.). mrs. gallatin’s situation: Hannah Nicholson Gallatin was expecting another child in October (Gallatin, Papers, 9:943; 10:13).
connected with this department: TJ received a “List of Warrants issued by the Secretary of the Treasury” for the period 2 to 7 July inclusive. The list de scribed 42 warrants totaling $91,554.74. Four warrants listed in a miscellaneous category totaled $11,056.12, of which $10,000 was a payment to Thomas Mun roe for expenses relative to public build ings at the capital. Thirtyseven warrants, totaling $59,898.63, were collected under “Civil Depmt.” These were chiefly dis bursements for the payment of govern ment salaries for the second quarter of 1804, to include No. 6, for Gallatin and his clerks and messengers ($4,040); No. 8, for Treasurer of the Mint Benjamin Rush and his officers ($2,650); No. 14, for Reg ister of the Treasury Joseph Nourse and his clerks and messengers ($4,319.69); No. 22, for Levi Lincoln ($750); No. 25, for Madison and his clerks and messengers
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2 J U LY 1 8 0 4 ($2,652); No. 26, for Dearborn and his clerks and messengers ($2,602.50); No. 33, for the justices of the Supreme Court ($4,500); and No. 34, for district court judges ($4,775). Warrant No. 37 was for TJ’s salary of $2,333.33, paid “on ac count.” The final warrant was listed under
the heading “Diplomatic Depmt.” and was a payment of $20,599.99 to Jonathan Burrall for bills of exchange as part of the expenses of the treaty with Algiers (MS in DLC: TJ Papers, 141:24581; in a clerk’s hand).
From J. P. G. Muhlenberg Sir Philadelphia July 2d. 1804. I am Honor’d with Your favor of the 27th. Ulto. enclosing a Letter for Baron Humboldt—The Baron Saild on Friday Morning in the Ship Favorite, for Bordeaux—I therefore, agreeably to direction re inclose the Letter—The day before the Barons departure, he receivd a Number of Packages, addressd to him by the Secretary of State, &. the Secretary of the Treasury. I have the Honor to be with great Respect Sir Your Obedt. Servt. P Muhlenberg RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Presi dent of the UStates”; endorsed by TJ as received 4 July and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: perhaps TJ to Lafayette, 27 June.
TJ’s favor to Muhlenberg is not re corded in SJL and has not been found. Alexander von humboldt departed Phil adelphia on 29 June (Philadelphia Gazette, 29 June).
To Thomas Munroe July 2. 1804.
It being perfectly understood that the appropriation of Mar. 3. 1803. for ‘keeping in repair the highway between the capitol & other public buildings’ had in view only ordinary & light repairs in the stile which then existed, it would be contrary to that view to make it the foun dation of expending on them such a sum as 5. or 6000. D. altho’ it is very possible that this would be cheapest in the end. adopting there fore mr Latrobe’s views as to the number & size of the discharges for the water, but instead of brick making them of drystone faced behind with plaister, arching with brick the 4. & 6. f. culverts, but covering those of 3. f. with flat long stone, and instead of a culvert of 120. f. length at each, having one of 30. f. (which will go from guttur to gut tur) & 4. of 5. f. each at each of the footways, making 50. f. length for each culvert, the following according to his calculations would be the expence 28
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4. Culverts of 3. f. @ 62.50 250. 1. do. 4. f. 83. 2. do. 6. f. with brick arches @ 150. 300. gravelling will probably be worth about 667. The making a new bridge at 1st. street seems ineligible be cause the direction of that street being due South would carry the water into the projected canal which would furnish no discharge but at a great expence of work. it is therefore best I think to add a 10. f. arch at each end of the present bridge, executing them with all the attention to the foun dation which mr Latrobe proposes. but as they will be but about 25. f. long, instead of 50. f I suppose they will cost but the half of his estimate, to wit
1300.
650. 1950. no credit is taken in this estimate for the existing culverts & their ma terials, which will therefore cover articles omitted. this work should proceed without delay. Th: Jefferson
PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Mr. Mun roe”; endorsed by TJ. such a sum: see Memorandum from Thomas Munroe, 30 June. TJ had ear lier proposed applying unused funds from
the 1803 appropriation toward the roads (TJ to Benjamin H. Latrobe, 31 Mch. 1804). For latrobe’s views, see Notes on Washington Highways, [ca. 2 July].
Notes on Washington Highways [ca. 2 July 1804]
Washington. Highways.
2. arches of 10. f. each adjg Tyber bridge bed of creek enlarged & B street canalled1 1. 1. 3. f. Culvert. 30. f. + 2. of 5. f. each. 50 f. betw. Tyber & Duane’s 2. 1. do. at Duane’s 3. 1. do. opposite Market bridge 4. 1. 4. f. do. opposite the hotel 5. the culvert at the brew house to be arched with brick 6. 1. 6. f. culvert opposite the theatre 7. a 3. f. do. near to Rhodes’s. The sides of the above to be drystone well the back faced with mortar 29
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the top covered with long stones except Nos. 5. & 6. to be arched with brick gravel repaired. mr Latrobe estimates a 3. f. culvert of brick. 120. f. = 300 D but of stone it would be 120. f. for 150. D. and of course 50 f for 62.50 4. 3. f. culverts then will cost 250. D 1. 4. f. do. 83. D 2. 6. f. do. with brick arches 150. 300. D 2. arches over Tyber ½ of 1300. 650. D gravelling 667. D 1950. D . D . D existing materials & work will cover omissions & contingencies. MS (DLC: Madison Papers, Miscella neous Manuscripts); entirely in TJ’s hand, with alterations to several figures; undated, but see TJ to Thomas Munroe, 2 July; on same sheet as Notes on Ship ment, [before 23 July 1804], and Para
graph on Disaffected Citizens, [1804?], interleaved in a bound volume of Madi son’s notes (see Madison, Papers, 14:168n). 1 Line
interlined.
From Edmund Searcy Sir Kentucky, Woodford County July 2nd. 1804, When I wrote you on the subject of exploring a part of Louisianie, the Red and Arkensas Rivers, being doubtful whether an appoint ment of that Kind would be made, my letter was not accompanied with any papers shewing my standing as a man of business; I now make free to trouble you with the inclosed Certificate. Should you in cline to favour my request, I can if necessary forward to you other and further recommendation; It would give me much satisfaction to re ceive some information on the Subject. I am Sir Your Most Obedient Huml Sert. Edmund Searcy RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 19 July and “to explore Louisiana” and so recorded in SJL. En closure: Christopher Greenup, Charles Scott, and Peyton Short to TJ, undated, recommending Captain Edmund Searcy as a proper person to explore the Red and
Arkansas Rivers; an “early adventurer” to Kentucky and experienced in Indian affairs, Searcy is a “bold enterprising & intrepid Citizen” (RC in same). wrote you: see Searcy to TJ, 22 May 1804.
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From George Twyman Sir [before 3 July 1804] I remember that I heard you say, your attention was now on your garden; you also shew’d me your place for seeds. Those I have inclos’d are very good summer turnipseed. I think from long experience the best time for sowing is about the 20th. or betwean the 20 & last of July. However it Depend very much on the Season. therefore my way is to sow at Different times, in the space of 10. or 12 Days. Please to accept my respects To yourself and famely.— George Twyman PS. I was told by some person a year or two Ago, that you wisht to have a Cat of a tawtershel Colour. if you Do, I think I Can Come very near to it, and should be glad to gratify your [. . .] known.— RC (DLC); torn; undated; endorsed by TJ as received 3 July 1804.
To Albert Gallatin Th: Jefferson to mr Gallatin. July 3. 04. I know of nothing which ought to detain you in the city longer than the time you mention. I propose today to take an ultimate view of our instructions to our negociators in Spain, and chiefly to decide whether any later views, and particularly those from Baron Humboldt should occasion alterations of opinion in any point. within the course of the week we can agree as to the filling all vacancies in office. The answer to the Spanish minister is perfectly proper. I have no doubt the 10th. article of the treaty meant to include the case of the vessel in question, but the law has not gone so far as the treaty, and it is the safest doctrine to suppose that a treaty requires a law in cases submitted by the constitution to the three branches of the legislature. Lieutt. Gaines will be an excellent appointment as Collector at Fort Stoddert. as to Pope of New Bedford I have no particular information. affectionate salutations. RC (NHi: Gallatin Papers). PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “affairs with Spain. Gaines.” our instructions: see Madison to James Monroe and Charles Pinckney, 8 July (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:43032).
For the answer to the spanish min ister, see Gallatin to TJ, 2 July (first letter). requires a law: on 14 Feb. 1805, Con gress passed an act that exempted the own ers of Spanish vessels from having to pay duties on cargo unladed from distressed or wrecked ships and later reexported. The
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3 J U LY 1 8 0 4 law also authorized the Norfolk collector to refund the duties paid by the owners
of the Nuestra Señora de la Merced (U.S. Statutes at Large, 2:314).
From Bishop James Madison Dear Sir Williamsburg July 3d. 1804— I have often regreted, that I parted with the Instrument, which you mention; & which would have been so convenient in the very useful work you have in View. Cap. Hutchins prevailed upon me to let him have it in the year 84. I intended to have procured one more perfect in it’s Construction; & this Summer have given Directions for that Purpose. I have been anxious to obtain one as a travelling Companion this Fall, in order to ascertain the Latitude of some particular Places in Virginia; & supposed such an Instrument might be procured in N. York, or Philadelphia. In Case of a Disappointment, I had some Thoughts of seperating the common Hadley’s Quadrant into conve nient Pieces, which might be united by Slides, or other Means, when it was required for Use.—I am satisfied an ingenious Mechanic would render one very portable in this Way, whilst the Accuracy of the In strument would be but little impaired.— Had the Instrument remained in my Possession, I should certainly have taken great Pleasure in forwarding it, without Delay. I am Dr Sir, with sincere Respect & Esteem Yr. Friend & Servt J Madison RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thos. Jef ferson Esqre.”; endorsed by TJ as received 7 July and so recorded in SJL.
you mention: see TJ to Bishop Mad ison, 29 June.
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From Thomas Munroe Matthias Kyan Charles Dent Mark Fahey Patrick Donnohoo Timothy King John King Thomas Bean Martin King James King Thomas Crowley Martin Downs Mark Crowley Timothy Garrity James Lamer John Towns James Flaherty Timothy Bean
3 July [1804]
⎫ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪
⎬ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪
⎭
The Overseers say the 17 persons here mentioned are all those employed at the Presidents House, who behaved improperly on the 2d. July (yesterday) by riotously parading about the streets; the three first named were the leaders it is said, and the seven following were next in fault—the rest joined in the mob & walked about the City—but Matthias Kyan was the principal exciter, and was most reprehensible in his behavior—Several were induced by this gang to leave the Capitol it seems; John Hazle & Joseph Thomas were the only two who behaved very culpably there—they returned to work to day, but have been dismissed—several Americans & some free blacks & slaves both at the Capitol & Presidents Ho refused to join the malecontents.— T. Munroe
RC (DLC); partially dated; addressed: “President”; endorsed by TJ: “Washington. buildings. Mutineers. T. Munroe’s statement July 1804.”
From Robert Smith Sir, July 3. 1804— I have unfortunately been suffering since Saturday under the effects of the “Ague and fever”. This day I feel as if I was not again to be troubled with it. I shall however not be able to attend the proposed meeting of the Heads of Departments, nor to accept your polite invitation to Dinner. A recruiting Officer is now at Baltimore for the purpose of Obtaining men for the Gun-Boat No. 1. And I have reason to believe that she will be completely ready for service in the Course of a few days. Will you be pleased to inform me what is to be her cruising station and what are to be the heads of the instructions to the Commanding Officer. The boat building at Hampton is also nearly completed and will soon be ready for Service. It is proper to inform you that neither of these boats was intended by me for the Missisippi. But if you should think that one of them ought to be sent thither, the one building at Hampton is the best calculated for that Service. Those that we 33
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are now preparing to build are, it is believed, well adapted to the Missisippi and also to the Atlantic ports. And I am perfectly satisfied they will answer all the purposes contemplated by you. I have given orders to Mr Fox to build two of the gun boats at this place. I am persuaded they will be built here better than at any other place. Mr Fox, as a Scientific as well as a practical man, stands high among the first in his profession. With the advantages he will possess here he will necessarily build Boats that will answer our purposes better than those that may be undertaken at a distance from us. From these and other Considerations it has appeared to me proper that one of the brigs authorised by the Law of the last session ought to be built at this place and upon my suggesting this idea to Mr Fox he has ex pressed a strong desire to receive from me such an order. Will you therefore be pleased to express to me your pleasure upon this subject. Respectfully, Sir, I am Your Ob. Sert Rt Smith RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 3 July and “gunboats. brigs” and so recorded in SJL. law of the last session: on 26 Mch. 1804, Congress authorized the pur chase or construction of two ships of no
more than 16 guns apiece. Josiah Fox de signed both the brig Hornet, which was constructed in Baltimore, and the sloop Wasp, built at the Washington Navy Yard (ndbw, Register, 73, 80; U.S. Statutes at Large, 2:292).
From Peter Freneau Dear Sir, Charleston, July 4th 1804. I should feel great reluctance in addressing you on the subject mentioned below had I any other view in doing it than a desire to serve a very respectable family in this City. The Loan Officer for this State, John Neufville Esqr, now lies ex tremely ill, from his weak state and great age, (he is now in his sev enty eighth year) it is highly probable that he will not recover; in this case it is to be presumed that some applications will be made from hence for his office. As it cannot be supposed that you can have a particular knowledge of individuals here, I beg leave to mention that Mr. Isaac Neufville, the son of the present Loan Officer, has been employed by his father in the office from its establishment to this time, that he is an able accountant, well acquainted with its duties, a man of strict integrity and of unblemished reputation.— Should the event alluded to take place, the conferring the Office on him would not only place an uniform republican and an honest man in a respectable situation but would be the means of enabling him to 34
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assist an aged Mother and a Maiden sister who, in a degree, will have to claim his aid.—I shall trespass no farther on your time than to say that I am, with every Sentiment of the highest regard and respect. Dear Sir, Your very obedient Servant. Peter Freneau. RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 13 July and “Neufville Isaac. to be loan officer” and so recorded in SJL.
Notes on Dispatches from William C. C. Claiborne July 4. Govr. Claiborne’s lre May 24. 04. St. Julien’s case the local judge should decide if crimes commd under Span. govmt are cognisable under ours & proceed accdly do. May 29. dispute between 2. priests. let their chief decide French privateer with American prize. do. May 30. his expences. do. June 2. his answer to the impertinencies of Govr. Folch perfect MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 140:24332); entirely in TJ’s hand; follows, on same sheet, Topics for Consultation with the Secretary of War, 16 May 1804. st. julien’s case: Claiborne’s dis patch to Madison of 24 May discussed the case of Pierre Louis St. Julien, whom Spanish authorities charged with mur dering his wife. Pierre Clément Laussat subsequently released him, however, be lieving St. Julien to have been framed for the crime due to his proFrench proclivi ties. Following the cession of Louisiana, public “agitation” demanded St. Julien’s return to prison, but Claiborne doubted his authority to punish offences commit ted in Louisiana “previous to the late change of dominion” and sought instruc tion from the administration before pro ceeding (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:2501). In a letter of 29 May, Claiborne in formed Madison of a dispute in the At
takapas region involving two Catholic priests, Miguel Bernardo Barriere and Étienne Bernard Alexandre Viel. Laussat had replaced Barriere with Viel, but the head of the church in Louisiana, Patrick Walsh, reinstated Barriere and declared Viel’s authority null. The rival priests and their respective supporters, “very much inflamed,” appeared at the church simul taneously, which forced the civil com mandant of the district, Henry Hopkins, to shut the church until he reported the matter to Claiborne for instructions. Clai borne referred the affair to Walsh. The same letter reported that a french pri vateer had anchored two prizes, one American and one British, in the Missis sippi River and might attempt to sell their cargoes at New Orleans. Claiborne gave additional information in dispatches of 24 May (same, 250, 251, 265). expences: Claiborne’s lengthy dis patch of 30 May included a detailed dis cussion of the heavy expenses he incurred
35
4 J U LY 1 8 0 4 as a commissioner to accept the transfer of Louisiana (same, 2668). Writing to Claiborne from Pensacola on 1 May, Governor Vicente folch y Juan of West Florida vehemently protested the recent congressional act authorizing the establishment of a collection district at Mobile and the administration’s assertion that the Perdido River constituted the eastern boundary of Louisiana. Replying
on 2 June, Claiborne stated that such mat ters more properly belonged to their re spective governments to settle. He added that Folch’s “tone of Menace” was neither justified nor consistent with the harmony existing between the United States and Spain. Claiborne enclosed Folch’s letter and his reply in his dispatch to Madison of 2 June (same, 2723; Rowland, Claiborne Letter Books, 2:1826).
To Robert Smith Dear Sir July 4. 04. I have no doubt that we ought to do here every thing which time will permit us to do; and consequently approve of building a brig and two gunboats here. There are weighty reasons requiring a gun boat in Lake Pontchar train immediately. it is thought too that No. 1. tho not suited to the current of the Missisipi, may be well adapted to the lake, and being a stouter seaboat than any we may build hereafter she will be the prop erer for that station which may call for occasional attentions and voiages to Mobille. I believe she should be placed under the discre tion of the governor, with observations that her principal objects will be to prevent smuggling and to keep in check the armed schooner which the Spaniards have sent into that lake. except for this service it is hard to say what ports are most in want of gunboats. every one into which an armed belligerent vessel can enter ought to be furnished with boats to preserve order. have not you the little scrip of paper on which was written down the distribution of these vessels at the consultation we had on that subject? if you have I will thank you for a copy of it. affectionate salutations and wishes for better health. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Mr. Smith.” Notation in SJL: “gunboats. brig.” weighty reasons: probably the re ports of a French privateer having seized an American vessel (see Notes on Dis patches from William C. C. Claiborne, 4 July).
Following the retrocession of New Or leans, Spanish authorities repositioned the armed vessels of the Mississippi River squadron to police West Florida (Abra ham P. Nasatir, Spanish War Vessels on the Mississippi, 1792-1796 [New Haven, 1968], 1445; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:3158).
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From Theodorus Bailey Dear Sir, New york 5th. July 1804. I now transmit under cover Mr. DeVille’s bill and receipt for the 400 bottles of Champaigne wine.—On tuesday last an opportunity offered by the sloop Little Jim, to send it directly to Washington City: I have availed myself of it, and transmit to you under cover a bill of lading. The Wine is carefully packed up in seven boxes; five of which contain 60 and two 50 bottles each. The vessel is commanded by a Capt. Butler, and owned by a Mr. Robinson of Richmond Va.—her principal freight consists of GunCarriages for the frigates;—and the owner (who appears to be a very decent man) is on board.—He prom isses to use his best endeavours to have the wine delivered safely and in good condition. With assurances of sincere respect & consideration, I am your Obedt. huml. Servt. Theodorus Bailey. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 7 July and so recorded in SJL. Enclo sure: receipt of Charles DeVille, 27 June, for $400 received in payment for 400 bottles of champagne (MS in same; en dorsed by Bailey).
delivered safely: in his record of wine obtained for Washington, TJ in dicated that in this shipment 23 bottles “broke” (mb, 2:1116).
From William Cocke Dear Sir, Chiccasaw Nation 5th July 1804 I am now on my return from the natchez after Visiting that place and a Small part of Louisiana the advanced Season induced my friends to advise me not to Venture Returning by way of Orleans Yesterday the 4th of July was Celebrated at this place by a large Concorse of the natives among whom was General Colbert Major Colbert Levy & James Colbert Turnbull and a number of the cheifts of the nations their wives & families to geather with a Respectable Collection of white people who inhabit this Country the Toast was appropriate to the day, and a dinner in plain and Jenteel Stile was provided the General Joy and harmony Shown on this Occasion and the atteach ment exprest for Our Government and its administration would do honor to any portion of the Union after diner they had a ball, in American Stile as they Calld this the American day, at this exebition I could Scarsely credit my own eyes, many of the natives danced with a most gracefull air and kept good time they danced Reales Curtilions & Jigs in the Old Virginia mode I only do Justice to the wife of Mr 37
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James Colbert when I Say She is one of the most accomplished women of my Acquaintance that has not the aid of a Liberal Education She Speaks English equally as plain as any person in her manners She is plain unassuming and uneffected the women of that nation Seem to Vye with each other who Shall Spend the most & the neatest the agent Mr Mitchel deserves great credit for his exertions to improve this people they are making great improvements in farming Vast numbers of them have lately left their Towns and are makeing farms & Raiseing Stock I have been Very Sick a few days past with the fe vour so prevalant in this Country but have got about again not one of my Company escaped and more than one third of the boat men that Return that belong to the States of Kentuckey Tennessee & Ohio are taken with that plague the agent hear Shew them every kindness in his power so that his house is little better than a hospitle for the Sick travellers I know by th[. . .] you will be tired Reading my Scrawl & I am too Sick to write more accept assurances of the high esteem of your m obt h servt Wm Cocke My fevour is Riseing & I expect will Shortly be up to 190— W.C RC (DLC); torn at seal; addressed: “The President of The United States Washington City”; endorsed by TJ as re ceived 26 July and so recorded in SJL. General William colbert and his brothers George (known as Major Col bert), Levi, and James were sons of Scotsman James Logan Colbert, who had married into the Chickasaw nation. The brothers grew wealthy from commercial opportunities afforded by the 1801 Chick asaw treaty, which established a rightof way through tribal land, later the Natchez Trace. As key members of the bicultural elite that dominated Chickasaw leader ship, they served as negotiators and in terpreters for the Chickasaws and steered the economic and political management of tribal affairs (anb; Guy B. Braden, “The Colberts and the Chickasaw Nation,” Tennessee Historical Quarterly, 17 [1958], 22234; James R. Atkinson, Splendid Land, Splendid People: The Chickasaw In-
dians to Removal [Tuscaloosa, Ala., 2004], 183, 296n). turnbull: perhaps William Turnbull, born to a Chickasaw mother and trader John Turnbull. William Turnbull, who was married to a Choctaw woman, and William Colbert were both signers of an 1805 U.S. treaty with the Choctaws (Christina Snyder, Slavery in Indian Country: The Changing Face of Captivity in Early America [Cambridge, Mass., 2010], 2045; Charles J. Kappler, comp. and ed., Indian Affairs: Laws and Treaties, 5 vols. [Washington, D.C., 1975], 2:88). wife of mr james colbert: Susan or Susannah James, the daughter of a Choctaw woman and fur trader Benjamin James, who worked as an intermediary between U.S. officials and the Choctaws (asp, Indian Affairs, 1:442; Rickey Butch Walker, Chickasaw Chief George Colbert: His Family and His Country [Killen, Ala., 2012], 77; Vol. 26:413n).
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From Daniel French Honour’d Sir. New York July 5—1804 in Some of the moments when your mind is relaxt from the weighty matters of your situation, I crave your patience and favour So far as to Read a few lines from an American Mechanick who has some share in Invetion of usefull Machines and improvements but from a num ber of misfortunes in diferent ways is unable from his pinching si cumstances to do that good to mankind which otherwise he would gladly do, wishing only to have a comfortable support for him self and family, and to be able to execute those usefull inventions; as the inventing and puting in operation those Ingines and improvements constitutes his pride and ambition. vewing the matter in the light that the mechanick who by some usefull invention, or improvement can save one Dollar to each family pr year, does more god to his Country than millions of money, and that the only thing which dis tinguishes the civillized from the savage state is the cultivation of the arts, and syences which have all sprang from the inventitive mind in different ages times and countrys, but to the shame of our Country, the inventitive mechanick is mostly look’d on with contempt ridecule’d, and abused by the multitude, at which however he ought not to be in the passion of anger, as they are ignorant of what they despise, they ought rather to have our pity and forgiveness, for my self I have sufferd much from such people, and expect to more, Sir if you can have patience I will give you a short account of what my situation in life as a mechanick has been, and what it is now and what was the situation of my Fathers Family but on this suffise it to say that my Father was left without any property when young by Nature of a slender Constitution, serv’d an apprentice ship to the Coopers Busi ness, which he set up soon after married my Mother about one year after one of the neighbouring houses being on fire, in his indeavours to extinguish the flames, he over heated him self and never after was in health, but only for short intervals, his family increaseing, the trou ble and difficulty of supporting his family became at last insirmount able, and he was under the necessity of asking aid of the town, thus wreched were we and despised by People in better circumstances, our deplorable situation deprived me of a common chance for scool ing, as I was oblig’d to work with my Father as soon as I could do anything to earn one penny per day. when I was thirteen years of age my Father died and my Mother was left a widow with five yong chil dren I being the oldest soon after my Fathers death I was bound an apprentice to a Cooper in the town with whom I serv’d untill I was 39
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twenty years of age; at which time he told me, my service to him was satisfactory, and gave me one year of my time, but during my appren ticeship I did not have one day to scool, but being all ways inclind to learn allthough deprived of the common advantagees I learnd to write a tolerable hand and to Read as well as People in common, part of my one and twentyth year I workd with my Master as a journyman, and that year as much as possible applyd my self to studdy the next year I set up my trade workd at it one year at this time my mind was so strongly bent on new inventions that it was impossible for me to be reconsild to work at my trade, and finding my hands were made to work in any other trade without serveing one day, which I could do to the astonishment of all who knew me, the operations of such things on my mind was irresistable and must break forth into action, but this as much as possible I indeavourd to restrain and keep under untill I had gaind one thing I thought absolutely necessery, this was to gain a knowledge of Natural Philosophy, and the science of Me chanicks for which I spared no pains night or day untill I had gaind, as I saw it was so nessecerely and intimately gaind or connected with mechineacall operations, that one would be lyable to mistake a thou sand times in the construction of new Machinery without its aid, and this point I gaind from Sir Isaac Newtons Principia, B, Martins Phi losophy &c, but the study of those things as it intruded on my time to work, subjected me to great trouble as my relations were all against me, saying it would never do me any good, the eyes of the town were fixt on me immediately, with disgusting frowns, which soon arose to such hight that there was talk of puting an over seer over me, about this time I had Invented a steam Boat and found a rich man of the town who was much pleased with the plan, with whom I made a bargain to be at the expence of building one, which was when done to be equally ownd betwen us booth this giting to the ears of the au thority of the town, they appointed a meeting to put a master over me, to make me go to work at my old trade again, of this I heard and went to the meeting to plead my own cause, but to no purpose they were set against the thing, and put a stop to it, the agetation of my mind was so great and produced such debility that it had like to have been fatal; dejected and all most broken hearted (as I had not learnd to support my self under such trouble) I went with anxious sorrow to work in the field at days work, and with the swet of my Brow to earn my Bread and almost gave up the hopes of ever being in better cir cumstances; after this went to work at one Dunhams the tinman by trade, with whom I workd at that Business for some time, at this time the manufactorying of buttons of a composition of copper and tin was 40
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caried on with great spirit in Connecticut, where I livd in the town of Berlin; from working at tin I turnd my attention to makeing all the tools for making Buttons, such as laiths to turn Butons in, and make ing Brass moulds to cast the Buttons in, of all figures, while to work at this I invented a peice of machinery to turn eight Buttons at the same time, this was so contrivd that one wheal in constant motion caused the mechine to do all the work with out one hand about it, The Buttons were thrown promiscously into a hopper like a parcel of grain, and from this in regular manner, and without failure, put in and taken out of the spindles on which they were turn’d, and flowered; but just as this works were finishing the Buttons got out of repute, and the Merchants would not buy them, this to me provd bad as I had spent a great deal of time in makeing this Machinery, which at once became use less, I then invented some Machinery for makeing wraught and Cut Nails, the Moddles of which are now in the Office of the Secretary of States, one forth of this invention I sold to Asher Miller esqr. Mayor of the City of Middletown for two thousand pounds Con necticut Courancy to be paid in one year, this raisd my expectations, as Miller was thought to be a good man, of this sum he paid me one thousand Dollars on which I bargaind for a house and land to the amount of seven hundred pounds, two hundred and fifty pounds I paid, but Miller being largely concernd in the land speculation of georgia, faild with the failure of that business, on this everyone came on me for what I ow’d them, this reduced me to a State worse than nothing, as it left me some in debt. after this I bargaind with a com pany of men in middletown to set up a manyfactory of cut Nails one quarter of which works built at their expenc was to be mine and one fourth of the neet proceeds, in this work was expend five thousand Dollars, and from the operation of said machines it appeard that it would be very profitable to the owners wee had built four machines each of which would cut and head sixty nails per minute, and those nails were very nice and would bring a better price in marke than others but a bout this time I haveing the charge of the Business, I was abused by the other owners in a most unheard of manner which ran to that hight that a could stay in the longer chuseing to live in peace without property rather than have it and live in discord from offers from one of my workmen to my partners they thought to git the work done in more advantageous terms then what I could acceed to affter my leaveing the works this man would not ingage with them to take charge of said works which for thre years have lain still and use less after quitting said works I came down to New york and set up a Machine for Dressing Shingles this shaves booth sides at one stroke 41
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and joints booth edgees at one time this has been in operation almost thre years and is a very profitable machine and does the work with the greaitest niceness, this is work’d by a Horse and will shave and joint five hundred pr hour, one of those machines I Built last summer for which I was to have had the money in august last past to the amount of one thousand Dollars the want of which has got me into great trouble and fear worse to come. this last spring I invented and built a new contrived machine for braiding or weaveing the catgut on to the stocks of gentlemens silver mounted Whips, this will weave one Whip in one minute of time, of money for this I am also disappointed, Many new and useful things I have Invented but find no incourage ment at present to build them, but one thing of them is worth millions of money and which knowing it to be so vastly valueable and trying for several years to find incouragement, I have at almost give the mater up, and it fills my mind with such anxciety and restess sensations that it seems if it would have ben better for me had I never had the thing come into my mind this of which I speak and of inventions of mine seems most valueable is an Invention for a steam Boat1 this is amaze ing simple in its construction haveing no wheals paddles swepes or oars or any other thing to project eighther from the sides bottom or stern in any way or form what ever and the power applyed acts with the same force when going against a stream as it does when moveing with it which is impossible in any other way this principle I demon strated in the presence of many witnesses and all the powr applyd is spent in this way to the best advantage possible being in a direct line and wholely free from oblique pressure and allthough I have demon strated those truths by actual experiment before many witnesses yet strange to tell none comes forward to assist to put the thing in opera tion and practice and now in hopes that so valueable a thing may not be lost to our Country and especially for the new acquired teritory I trust after examineing the plan if you have a good opinion of the thing you will not fail to incourage the accomplishment of it. I now procede to describe the principle which I shall do by giveing you the outlines of the form in which I tryed the experiment as in the figger below which is a section of the Boat with a large but short lifting pump A B C D is the Boat at C is the Baril or chamber of a common lifting Pump with its diaphram and valve, the lower valve shutts on the bottum of the Boat, as pr figger, At B is a vessel to receive the water frorm the pump at C which is discharge’d by a pipe or tube going from the bot tum of the vessel B, to the stern or hindes part of the Boat at A; it will now be easy to understand the effect the water must have from this position, as it is founded on the natural pressure of fluids, which at an 42
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equal depth below the surface of the fluid presses every way equally, and so presses an equal quantity of the surface of the vessel at equal depth, with equal force, in every direction independently, and now if the passage from B to A was closed at B and the water standing to the hight C then there would be no power to move the Boat because of equal pressure on every side let the form be as it may, but by take ing away part of the surface of the vessel on one side the eqalibrium
or equal pressure is distroyd, and the difference of pressure is less on the side of the opening in exact proportion to the size of the aperture, and hight of the fluid above it; or in other words the force is exactly expressd by the weight of a colum of water whose base is the size of the apperture and hight that of the fluid above it, and what ever this column weighs is the exact force by which the Boat is pressed for ward, the power to be apply’d is to work the pump to supply the ves sel B, and keep up a suiteable hight of the fluid, there is one thing peculiar to this applycation of the power applyd in this way, and that is the Boat with respect to the plying the power may be consedered as quiescent or at rest, the pressure being the same wheather the Boat moves fast or not,2 or wheather it move with or against the courant which is a great advantage and can not be gaind in any other way, as with oars in a quick courant and rowing against it, we spend the power in giveing motion to the oar to no affect as the water moves quickly away in the direction of the oars motion, and so the hold on the water is lost and not any power to move the boat, in this way all things may be under deck and out of the way and make no uncomon aperaeance, and the roughness of the water in this way will do no harm but with oars or wheals it would be a great objection and would be likely soon to break the machinery or sweeps and oars the Boat as above Described was sixteen feet long thre feet ½ in width strait and flat bottum and sides the pump made use of suppli’d a colum of water 2 inches thick by 5 in breadth under a head or hight of 2½ feet of water which workd by one man would move the boat very briskly with four or five men in it at a time, this was done at Leamberton on the Dillaware River summer before last, the thing made at the time 43
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much noise and was taken up for investgation at the clledge in Phila delphia and at the College in prince town and after examination was pronounce’d strictly Philosopycal; I would observe that for a boat in practice I would not make the pump as abov describ’d but some what like the figger below haveing one or more double force pumps made of mettle in two parts the uper part forms an air vessel the piston is a solid block and gives water to the air vessel equally movd eighther
way, this pump is to be fast scred down to the bottum of the Boat; the spring of the air will keep a steady flow of the water and by compress ing the air in the air vessel we can increase the velocity of the spout ing water, and in this is an advantage, for if we have a double velocity we dip double the water in the same time from the same orifice, but the power to move the Boat is in a four fould proportion, in the same time, for if from an opening of the same size we would draw double the quantity of water in the same time, we mist draw at four times the first depth below the surface, the air wessel will to all intents answer to a great hight of the water in giveing velocity to the spouting fluid and the power to move the Boat will be calculated in the same way and will be according to the velocity and quantity of the fluid dis charged in a given time and this form is more convenient and requires less weight of water in the Boat at the same time, will take up but little room, and is so simple it needs not to be discribed a bare vew of the figger will shew the operation of this pump the water is taken in at the bottum or sides of the Boat as we please, the steam Ingine I have greatly improved made it very simple in its structure not re quireing more than one seperate peice to fifty in the old ways, (for the boat) the Ingine is on the principle of Wats and Boltons double headed Ingine though very different in its form takeing up but little room, an ingine whose pwer is equal to the weight of two tons built in this way will not take up more than four feet in hight and will all be underdeck a small Ingine of this form, I have made which is now complete and goes to admiration, Several other forms for other uses, I have constructed, thre of which move with out any friction of the pis ton, and not requreing the cylinder to be bore’d for the piston to play 44
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in. the power of the steam Ingine requires no elustration as it must be well known to you; and the only reason why the Steam Boat has faild, is not from want of power in the ingine, but from a want of a proper applycation of that power, but in the way I have contriv’d I think every advantage is combind, which I submit to your examination, which I have no doubt you will find to be strictly Philosophycal and true, and I look forward from the midst of adversity to the time when this will double the value of our western acquisition by fre navigation of those waters which Nature has denyd in the common way, and convey to the interior of our Country the commoditys of all the earth, Shall I be instrumental of procureing so great a blessing to my Coun try, Nature and experiment join in the affirmative; O how inlivening the thought while on my mind, excites the nervous powr threnghens the muscular fibers the blood circulates vigerously and every function of the body seem to acquire new strench and life, my greatest intrest is to do good to mankind for in indeavours to increase the hapyness of others I derive the greatest hapyness to my self and virtue gos hand in hand with hapyness. and now sir if it would be pleaseing to you I would come to Washington and prove by experiment before your eyes that what I have said in relation to the steam boat is true and correct; the Boat should be rig’d with sails that when the wind is favourable we may make use of it with or without the ingenes operation the form of the Boiler to make steam as I have constructed it is very cheap and simple, I have an Ingine of the power of 500 pounds weight partly done for a Boat, but am not able to finish it for want of money, which if I had I could soon finish, and put in operation if it be your mind, this shall be set to work in washington which will fully determine the mater but for convenience I had rather do it in New york or at least to finish the ingine, which I could send round to Elexandria by water, if I had a few hundred dollars say four I could accomplish what I had intend by an experiment with this ingine to move a Boat, this Ingine would allways be usefull and pay the expence, so that no money would be lost in the experiment or but very little, and if you sir or you with any other gentelemen will be so kind as to help such a mechanick who cannot help himself, you will do me a great kindness for which I shall ever remain your servant and Friend and this I do not ask with out an intention of satisfaction for if you please one half of the right shall be yours with all the advantagees ariseing therefrom, by your being at the expenc of building, the principle of this Boat I have describd to which I have made oath in order to obtain a Pattent under the seal of the united states, if I was able to come to you I could give every satisfaction required, but for the want of money, I am fast bound, and 45
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cannot come; I have many usefull things and of great value which I want to put in operation but cannot do it for want of money, and am at present in a miserable situation on the same account. the last sum mer I took out a Patent signd by your hand for a Machine for spliting shaveing and jointing shingles which is a valueable thing one of which is in operation in New york and operates to great advantage to the owner and does the work much better than it can be done by hand, Sir if you think my indeavours in this way to do good in my day and generation, aught to be incouraged pray sir do not forgit one of your country men, but be so kind as to answer your petitioner as soon as your business will permit, in so doing you will much oblige your— Servant and Friend Daniel French NB forgive any ting a miss as it is not from intention, Direct your Let ter to Daniel French of New york corner of Montgomery and Bedlow streets RC (DLC); with several repetitions of words silently corrected; endorsed by TJ as received 10 July and so recorded in SJL. Daniel French (1770ca. 1860), a self described “mechanist and engineer,” worked in Berlin and Middletown, Con necticut, before pursuits took him to New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and ultimately Jeffersonville, Indiana. Claiming to have conceived the idea in 1791 of a steam propelled boat, he was a rival of Robert Fulton and Oliver Evans. He did not re ceive a patent for his own “improvements in the steam engine for boats, mills, etc.” until 12 Oct. 1809. He became known for his oscillating horizontal cylinder engines, including the Enterprize, the first steam boat to ascend the Mississippi and Ohio rivers. In June 1804, French advertised ten of his ideas for agricultural and me
chanical inventions and his willingness to demonstrate their operation. His patents included improvements in machines for manufacturing cut and wrought nails, turning buttons, making bricks, and split ting and shaving shingles (Alfred R. Maass, “Daniel French and the Western Steamboat Engine,” American Neptune: Maritime History & Arts [1996], 56:29 44; New York American Citizen, 21 June 1804; New-York Evening Post, 29 Jan. 1810; Hartford Connecticut Courant, 11 July 1810; Relfs Philadelphia Gazette, 26 Jan. 1811; List of Patents, 12, 36, 55, 76, 85, 165). patent signd by your hand: French’s patent for his shingle machine was granted 25 July 1803 (same, 36). 1 French wrote the preceding two words in large letters. 2 MS: “fast or or not.”
To James Madison Th:J. to J.M. July 5. 04. We did not collect the sense of our brethren the other day by regu lar questions, but as far as I could understand from what was said it appeared to be 1. that an acknolegement of our right to the Perdido is a sine quo non, and no price to be given for it. 2. no absolute & 46
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perpetual relinquishment of right is to be made of the country East of the Rio bravo del Norte, even in exchange for Florida. [I am not quite sure that this was the opinion of all]1 it would be better to lengthen the term of years to any definite degree than to cede in perpetuity. 3. that a country may be laid off within which no further settlement shall be made by either party for a given time, say 20 years. this coun try to be from the North river Eastwardly towards the Rio Colorado, or even to, but not beyond the Mexican or Sabine river. to whatever river it be extended, it might from it’s source run N.W. as the most eligible direction; but a due North line would produce no restraint that we should feel in 20. years. this relinquishment & 2. millions of dollars to be the price of all the Floridas East of the Perdido, or to be apportioned to whatever part they will cede. But on entering into conferences both parties should agree that, during their continuance, neither should strengthen their situation between the Iberville, Missipi & Perdido, nor interrupt the naviga tion of the rivers therein. if they will not give such an order instantly, they should be told that we have for peace sake only, forborne till they could have time to give such an order, but that as soon as we recieve notice of their refusal to give the order we shall enter into the exercise of our right of navigating the Mobille & protect it, and increase our force their 2 pari passu with them. RC (DLC: Madison Papers); addressed: “The Secretary of State.” PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “treaty with Spain.” pari passu: on equal footing.
1 TJ’s brackets. He interlined the sen tence that follows, making the change separately on RC and PoC. 2 Word altered in PoC to “there.”
To James Madison Th:J. to J.M. July 5. 04. The case of St. Julien ought certainly to be put on trial. the local judge must decide 1. whether crimes committed against the nation of Louisiana under it’s former organisation, can be punished under it’s present one? and 2. whether St. Julien is guilty? the 1st. question will be forced on them by other cases & may therefore as well be met at once. but we should leave the party at liberty but under security, as we found him.1 I think it was an error in our officer to shut the doors of the church, & in the Governor to refer it to the Roman catholic head. the priests must settle their differences in their own way, provided they commit 47
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no breach of the peace. if they break the peace they should be ar rested. on our principles all churchdiscipline is voluntary; and never to be enforced by the public authority; but on the contrary to be punished when it extends to acts of force. the Govr. should restore the keys of the church to the priest who was in possession. When a belligerent privateer brings one of our own vessels within our jurisdiction, it is primâ facie a trespass, and the territorial judge should arrest the trespasser and take possession of the vessel until he has enquired into the regularity of the transaction. the original act of taking could not be punished by him, unless it was piratical; but the continuance of the detention within our territory is cognisable and punishable by the laws of the country. Claiborne’s letter to Folch is perfectly proper. I think he should be liberally treated as to his expences as a Com missioner which no previous definition could fix.—on this head, con sidering how deficient the diplomatic salaries are become, should we not extend all reasonable indulgences to them as to expences not merely personal? would it not be as well, on the occasion of mr King’s ac counts, to revise the regulation of 1790. and extend allowance to other cases? affectionate salutations. RC (DLC: Madison Papers); addressed: “The Secretary of State.” PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “St. Julian. shutting church. privateer at N.O. Govr. Folch. Claiborne’s expences.” For the case of Pierre Louis st. julien and other topics discussed in this letter, see Notes on Dispatches from William C. C. Claiborne at 4 July. Madison wrote to Claiborne on 10 July, conveying “the ideas of the President,” as well as his own sen timents, on the subjects (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:4356). For TJ’s earlier consideration of Rufus King’s accounts as minister to Great Britain, see Vol. 43:58990, 595. Writing to King on 13 July, Madison informed
him that the president had approved pay ment of contingent charges relating to his presentation at the British court, Christ mas presents for court officers and ser vants, and stationery. Replying to Madi son on the 24th, King acknowledged “the Presidents liberality” regarding the set tlement of his accounts (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:2934, 447, 51112). regulation of 1790: “An Act pro viding the means of intercourse between the United States and foreign nations,” passed 1 July 1790, which specified limits on compensation for U.S. ministers and chargés d’affaires (U.S. Statutes at Large, 1:1289).
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1 Sentence
interlined.
From Craven Peyton Dear Sir Stump Island July 5th. 1804 I returned on the 22d of June, the difficulties which I had to en counter was very great by persueing the Mode you namd. I accom plished every thing. all the Deeds was on Monday last committed to record together with Isham Hendersons confirmed since he has come of age & recorded, inclosed is James L. Hendesons certificate sworn to, which testimony leaves nothing in the doubtfull, agreeable to my Idea. if the business has been accomplished fully up to your expecta tions, I shall feal the highest sensations of pleasure & considar my self rewarded in the highest degree, you will please let me no if it is nec essary to take any dipositions, Majr. Randolph namd. to me a prob ability of Mr Robert Peyton receaveing a commission in the Army, if it woud not be two great an intrusion, I shoud. be much pleased to hear if there is still a probability, with Real esteem yr. mst. Obt C Peyton RC (ViU); endorsed by TJ as received 10 July and so recorded in SJL. Enclo sure: see below. accomplished every thing: Peyton followed TJ’s instructions on gathering certified deeds in Shelby County, Ken tucky, related to the younger Henderson siblings. At the Albemarle County July court, Peyton had the deeds, including
James L. Henderson’s certificate of sale to Peyton of 18 Sep. 1802, attested and com mitted to record (see Vol. 38:57880; Vol. 43:3701). In March, TJ had nominated Craven’s younger brother robert peyton of Vir ginia to be an ensign in the Second Regi ment of Infantry (rs, 2:117; TJ to the Senate, 24 Mch.).
From James Wilkinson Sir Washington July 5th. 1804 I regret that Indisposition should have prevented the earlier ac knowledgment of your obliging Note of the 3rd. Inst., and I hope it may not be unseasonable at this time, to submit to you the following brief remarks, in reply to that Note.— Mr. Borés intemperate conduct may be imputed to national preju dice, to a false estimate of his own importance, & a delusive reliance on the maternal sympathies of France: to profit by the excess into which he has gone, & at the same time to baffle every Sinister attempt, which may be made on the credulity of the People of the Territory, to excite their fears & distrusts, of the good intentions of the United States towards them; it is my humble opinion, that Mr. Boré should be consigned to utter neglect, that his more opulent, influential & 49
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Intelligent neighbours should be recognized, with marked attention & confidence, and, in general, in the organization of the Government, as many of the Natives of the Country should be brought forward, as may accord with an unequivocal preponderance of sound american principle & attachment.— This procedure may, in my feeble Judgment, diminish Borés weight & destroy his influence, as it will naturally remove the Jealousies of the credulous, & operate as a bounty on Americanism.—With perfect respect & attachment I have the Honor to be Sir Your Obliged & Obedient Humble Servant Ja: Wilkinson RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thos: Jef ferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 5 July and so recorded in SJL.
TJ’s obliging note of 3 July has not been found, nor is it recorded in SJL.
To James Madison Th:J. to J.M. July 6. 04. In conversation with mr Gallatin yesterday as to what might be deemed the result of our Tuesday’s conferences, he seemed to have understood the former opinion as not changed, to wit that for the Floridas East of Perdido might be given not only the 2. millions of dollars and a margin to remain unsettled, but an absolute relinquish ment from the North river to the bay of St. Bernard and Colorado river. this however I think should be the last part of the price yielded, and only for an entire cession of the Floridas not for a part only. RC (DLC: Madison Papers); addressed: “The Secretary of State.” PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “treaty with Spain.”
From Thomas Munroe Sir, 6. July 1804 I recollect that you desired me some time ago to give you some in formation concerning part of the Ground on which your Coachmans house stands & as well as I remember I gave you a sketch of it, but have not since been informed of your wishes on the subject— The Coachman having today applied to me to buy the ground, and not knowing whether it was with your knowledge & consent I have supposed it might not be amiss to apprize you of it, as I think I have 50
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been told by yourself or somebody else that you had the house built for him—. I dont mean to intimate a suspicion of any thing improper being contemplated by him in the business—. I have the Honor to be with the most respecful considn. T Munroe RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from Washington on 7 July and so re corded in SJL.
coachman: Joseph Dougherty.
To Robert Smith Th:J. to mr Smith. July 6. 04. I have made some slight alterations with a view to perspicuity in order to confine Article Ist. to those breaches of the peace & of the law of nations which are subjected to the discretion of the Governors acting under standing instructions from this government. IId. to cases of piracy which are left to the discretion of the officer himself who commands the boat. IIId. to those offences against the revenue laws & health laws which are under the care of the Collector of the customs. it is probable you will be able by a little attention, to make it more explicit, and enable each of these three officers to find all his duties ex actly in the particular article respecting him. affectionate salutations. PrC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “instrns for gunboats.”
From Robert Smith Navy dept. 6 July 1804.
I have the honor to request your Signature to the enclosed War rants for Lucas, Boatswain, and Taylor, Gunner. These officers are intended for the GunBoat No. 1 now equipping at this place. Rt Smith FC (DNA: RG 45, LSP); in a clerk’s hand; at head of text: “The President of the United States.”
James lucas and William taylor served on board Gunboat No. 1 (ndbw, Register, 32, 54).
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To William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir Washington July 7. 04. In a letter of the 17th. of April which I wrote you from Monticello, I observed to you that as the legislative council for the territory of Orleans was to be appointed by me, and our distance was great an early communication on the subject was necessary: that it ought to be composed of men of integrity, of understanding, of clear property & influence among the people, well acquainted with the laws, customs & habits of the country and drawn from the different parts of the ter ritory whose population was considerable: and I asked the favor of you to inform me of proper characters, with short sketches of the ma terial outlines for estimating them; and I observed that a majority should be of sound American characters long established & esteemed there, & the rest of French or Spaniards. the most estimable & well affected. when in daily expectation of an answer from you, I recieve your favor of May 29. whereby I percieve that my letter to you has never got to hand. I must therefore at this late day repeat my request to you, & ask an early answer, because after recieving it, I may per haps have occasion to consult you again before a final determination. a letter written any time in August will find me at Monticello, near Milton, & had better be so directed. a blank commission for a Sur veyor and Inspector for the port of Bayou St. John will be forwarded to you to be filled up with any name you approve. I would prefer a native Frenchman, if you can find one proper and disposed to cooper ate with us in extirpating that corruption which has prevailed in those offices under the former government and had so familiarised itself as that men, otherwise honest, could look on that without horror. I pray you to be alive to the suppression of this odious practice, and that you bring to punishment & brand with eternal disgrace every man guilty of it, whatever be his station. With respect to the establishment of the Orleans bank I never doubted the circumstances which extorted it from you: nor had I the doubts which some entertained of the competence of your power, except so far as Congress themselves, and consequently all the au thorities derived from them, were restrained by their charter to the bank of the US. and this restraint is only temporary, & will be at an end the 1st. day of October next when the new legislature comes into being: at least it is one opinion that it will. I know from my own situ ation how you are beset by those who wish to derive advantages to themselves without regard to deceptions on you. some too from a care lessness of temper lead us into error. I learn that mr Gurney was en 52
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abled to get such letters here from members of Congress & others as could not fail to give you confidence in him. I inclose you from a news paper what is a very moderate statement of the truth. however it will not be worth while to say or do any thing about it. I will take on myself the passing him over on the 1st. of October. not that I would wish any thing like a persecution of that political sect to take place at New Orleans. on the contrary I wish it were possible to lose the dis tinction every where. but while the party throughout the US. retain and ever increase their bitterness they must not be nourished by office, or enabled to turn the patronage of the government against it’s own existence. The position of N. Orleans certainly destines it to be the greatest city the world has ever seen. there is no spot on the globe to which the produce of so great an extent of fertile country must necessarily come. it is three times the greater than that on the Eastern side of the Allegany which is to be divided among all the seaport towns of the Atlantic states. there is also no spot where yellow fever is so much to be apprehended. in the middle and Northern parts of Europe, where the sun rarely shines, they can safely build cities in solid blocks with out generating disease. but under the cloudless skies of America where there is so constant an accumulation of heat, men cannot be piled on one another with inpunity. accordingly we find this disease confined to the solid built parts of our towns and the parts on the water side where there is most matter for putrefaction, rarely extending into the thinbuilt parts of the town, and never into the country. in these latter places it cannot be communicated. in order to catch it you must go into the local atmosphere where it prevails. is not this then a strong indication that we ought not to contend with the laws of nature, but should decide at once that all our cities shall be thinbuilt? you will perhaps remember that in 1793. yourself, the present governor Har rison and some other young gentlemen, dining with me in Philadel phia, the then late yellow fever being the subject of conversation, and it’s incommunicability in the country I observed that in building cit ies in the US. we should take the chequer board for our plan, leaving the white squares open & unbuilt for ever, and planted with trees. Harrison treasured this idea in his mind, & having to lay off a city 2. or 3. years ago on the banks of Ohio, opposite to Louisville, he laid it off on this plan. as it is probable that N. Orleans must be very soon enlarged, I inclose you the same plan for consideration. I have great confidence that howsoever the yellow fever may prevail in the old part of the town, it would not be communicable in that part which should be built on this plan: because this would be all like the thin built parts 53
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of our towns, where experience has taught us that a person may carry it, after catching it in it’s local region, but can never communicate it out of that. having very sincerely at heart that the prosperity of N. Orleans should be unchecked, and great faith, founded as I think in experience, of the effect of this mode of building against a disease which is such a scourge to our close built cities, I could not deny myself the communication of the plan, leaving to you to bring it into real existence if those more interested should think as favorably of it as I do. for beauty, pleasure & convenience it will certainly be emi nent. We are in hourly expectation of the arrival of some Osage chiefs, with whom we expect to make arrangements not only favor able to our peace and commerce on the West side of the Misipi, but also preparatory to the plan of inducing the Indians on this, to remove to the other side of that river. In one of your letters you mention that doubts are entertained of our right to go to the Perdido. France asserts the right, Spain opposes to it quibbles on words only, and we forbear the exercise of our right as yet, merely to give time for a peacable acquiescence in Spain. the speculations in that quarter will turn out as groundless as they were greedy. I am thankful for your attentions to la Fayette’s location. I pray you to continue so, and as soon as you shall have made up your mind as to the places and quantities, I will take measures for the sur vey & grant. I should suppose that lands on the Canal of Carondelet must be valuable, altho’ they may require a little banking, & espe cially if they should not require a concert with other proprietors for embankment. Accept my friendly salutations, and assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of first page: “Gov ernr. Claiborne.” Notation in SJL: “leg isl. council. Inspectr. Bayou St. J, bank &c. plan of Cheqr. board.” Enclosures not found, but see below. orleans bank: see Claiborne to TJ, 3 June. mr gurney: that is, John W. Gurley, the acting U.S. attorney at New Orleans. Commenting on the appointment in its 14 June edition, the Independent Chronicle
reported that while residing in Boston, Gurley had been a violent and conspicuous Federalist and “chairman to the cockade young men, who addressed Mr. Adams; and who celebrated the nonintercourse with the French Republic.” Gurley had apparently recognized his past errors and “converted to Republicanism.” For TJ’s checkerboard town plan, which William Henry Harrison imple mented at Jeffersonville, Indiana Territory, see Vol. 38:1657 and Vol. 39:58990.
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From Thomas Munroe 7 July 1804
Mr. Soderstom assignee of Mr L’Enfant wishing to take Lots for his claim, or considerable part thereof, has written, to T Munroe on the subject desiring a Statement of the Amt. T Munroe respectfully begs the President to have the goodness to look at the enclosed pa pers, and to say whether it is perfectly clear that Interest ought to be allowed—The late board of Coms. it is true say they will pay Intt. but as the money was always ready for Mr. L & his not having recd it was his own fault TM1 thought when the Coms wrote the letter of 5th. December 1801 the offer of Interest was more than Justice & the circumstances of the case required of them—T.M. is also in doubt as to which of the enclosed letters the Committee had before them, and is refer’d to in the Act of Congress— RC (DLC); addressed: “President”; endorsed by TJ as received 7 July and “L’Enfant’s right” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures not identified, but see below. Pierre Charles l’enfant had rejected the offer of the District of Columbia’s Board of Commissioners to pay him 500 guineas plus interest for his services in devising a plan for the City of Washing ton and appealed directly to TJ and to Congress for a more substantial award. The House Claims committee made three reports on L’Enfant’s appeal, and
in an 1804 supplementary act related to Washington, Congress authorized Mun roe to pay L’Enfant “in the manner, and on the terms heretofore proposed by the said commissioners” (Letter from the Secretary of State, Transmitting Sundry Documents Relative to the Claim of Peter Charles L’Enfant, for Planning and Laying out the City of Washington, in Pursuance of a Resolution of This House of the 24th Ultimo [Washington, D.C., 1803], 911; jhr, 4:486; U.S. Statutes at Large, 2:2978; Vol. 35:5628; Vol. 36:88). 1 Initials
interlined in place of “I.”
From Anonymous Sir New York 8th July 1804 Doctor Buchan says in the Introduction to his Domestic Medicine that “Very few of the valuable discoveries in Medicine have been made by physicians” It has for a long time run strongly in the mind of an old woman that freezing rooms might be constructed where persons might be introduced with good effect in the Malignant or Yellow fever—It is a known fact that nothing but frosty weather stops the raging of the disorder. It is also known that by the means of ice frosty air to any degree may be obtained during the hottest weather 55
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You Sir have it in your power to cause the experiment to be tried from having observed your humanity in the preservation of human lives is the reason of this being addressed to you RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from “Anon.” on 12 July and “Yellow fevr. by freezing houses” and so recorded in SJL.
an old woman: this same correspon dent wrote TJ with similar information, April 1803, at that time signing her letter “An Observer” (Vol. 40:162).
To Thomas Munroe July 8. 04.
Th: Jefferson presents his salutations to mr Munroe, and is of opin ion there can be no doubt of Majr. L’enfant’s title to interest. it was validly engaged by the commissioners, and their offer has been ap proved by the legislature. PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “L’enfant.”
From Jacques Tanesse Sir Philadelphia the 8 of July 1804 The protection, which you deign to Bestow on the Arts, emboldens me to address the Present Letter to you, and to solicit from you the favor mentionned therein. I was born at Louisianna, and for a Number of years; I have re sided in the West indies; after Labours as long as they were assidu ous, the french Government Granted me the Commission of surveyor General of the Western part of St. Domingo; Now become an Ameri can Citizen, I desire to return to my Country; where I would have every favorable prospect of following the Duties of My station. Under this pleasing hope, Sir, I solicit You, with some Degree of Confidence, to Grant me the Commission of surveyor General for NewOrleans. This favor, Sir, by increasing my zeal for the Service of my new Country and for the Government (as free as it is generous) under which I act, will penetrate me, Sir, with lasting gratitude towards you. Please, Sir, to accept my assurance thereof, as Also that of the pro found respect, with which I have the honor, to be—. Sir Your most obedient & humble Servant. Tanesse No. 215 in south fifth street Philadelphia. I have the honor to enclose a copy of my commission 56
9 J U LY 1 8 0 4 RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at head of text: “To his excellency Thomas Jeffer son”; endorsed by TJ as received 14 July and “to be Surveyor Genl. N.O.” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found. Jacques Tanesse (ca. 17701824), a na tive of Bordeaux, France, moved to New Orleans in 1804 and as of 1808 was city surveyor, in which role he gave deposi tions and certified measurements relating
to the Batture case. His detailed Plan of the City and Suburbs of New Orleans from an Actual Survey Made in 1815 was pub lished in 1817 in New York and New Or leans (Earl C. Woods and Charles E. Nolan, eds., Sacramental Records of the Roman Catholic Church of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, 19 vols. [New Orleans, 19872004], 16:376; rs, 2:4456n; 3:496; 5:86n).
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Monday 9 July 1804 John Gibson’s commission as Secretary of the Indiana territory expired on the 14th of May last & has not been renewed. If this was an omission, the sooner an appointment takes place the better; but a difficulty still arises. Is he to be paid & if so from what funds for the time he had no commission? Respectfully Your obedt. Sert. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); addressed: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department and “Gibson”; recorded in SJL under 12
July with notation: “it was recd July 9. commn signed. July 12.” gibson’s commission: see Vol. 42: 4512; Vol. 43:247.
From Louis André Pichon Washington le 9 juillet 1804.
Mr. Pichon a l’honneur de présenter ses respects à Monsieur le Pré sident des Etats Unis et de le prier de vouloir bien agréer ses regrets et ses excuses de ce qu’il quitte Washington pour aller faire un excur sion jusques aux environs de Philadelphie sans prendre congé de Monsieur le Président. Mais dabord le depart, fixé à aujourd hui, nétait que pour aller jusques chez Ross passer quelques jours. Me Pichon desire decidement aller plus loin pour faire une diversion plus efficace à Son chagrin & Mr. Pichon l’emmene en consèquence jusques à Phile. Mr. & Me Pichon se flattent d’avoir cette anneè le plaisir daller saluer Monsieur le Président à Monticello & prendre congé de lui pour retourner en Europe: après la perte quils viennent d’eprouver, quelles que soient les résolutions de son Gouvernement Mr. Pichon ne restera pas aux Etats Unis une autre anneè. 57
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t r a n s l a t i o n
Washington, 9 July 1804 Mr. Pichon has the honor of sending his regards to the president of the United States and asking him to accept his regret and apologies for leaving Washington for the Philadelphia area without saying goodbye. Originally the departure, scheduled for today, was merely for a few days at Ross’s. But since Madame Pichon very much wished to take a longer journey to provide a greater consolation in her grief, Mr. Pichon is taking her to Philadelphia. Both Mr. and Mrs. Pichon hope to have the pleasure of seeing the president at Monticello this year to bid him farewell before returning to Europe. After the loss they have suffered, Mr. Pichon will not remain in the United States another year, whatever his government decides. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 9 July and so recorded in SJL. chez ross: probably Patrick Daugh erty’s Bladensburg, Maryland, inn, com monly called Ross’s Tavern for its earlier proprietor. Bladensburg had the draw of a mineral spring and was a popular desti nation for capital families seeking what Louisa Catherine Adams called a “way of changing the air” (Laura H. Hughes and others, “Historical Research Report for the Market Master’s House, Ma gruder House, and the George Washing
ton House” [Washington, D.C., 2009], 634; Margaret Law Callcott, ed., Mistress of Riversdale: The Plantation Letters of Rosalie Stier Calvert, 1795-1821 [Balti more, 1991], 57; Louisa Catherine Adams to John Quincy Adams, 4 July, in MHi: Adams Papers). son chagrin: sometime between 4 July and the writing of this letter, Louis André and Émilie Brongniart Pichon lost their infant son to illness (Louisa Cathe rine Adams to John Quincy Adams, 4 July, in same; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:499).
To William Short Dear Sir Washington July 9. 04. Mr. Barnes & myself have been long sensible that the passing my pecuniary affairs through his hands gave him a great deal of trouble, and at the same time increased mine. it sometimes too occasioned delays, he being very far from the US. bank here, and I close by it. we have at length therefore ceased that circuity and I have opened a direct intercourse with the bank. I consequently this day inclose to George Taylor for you a bank post note for 500. D. I percieve by mr Barnes’s accounts that a month’s remittance has been lately intermit ted, nor is it in my power now to make it good, and I apprehend it will now & then happen in spight of my stedfast desire to prevent it. a prospectus taken for the ensuing three months enables me to judge that it will not happen again in that period. I thank you for hav ing taken measures for procuring me the Cayusac sec. I hope you have also provided that the price shall at the same time be made known, 58
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the wish not having been merely for a single supply, but to be enabled to judge how far it would be desirable to obtain an annual supply, taking into consideration, price quality, and the difficulty of negocia tion in that canton. Will you not come and pass the months of August & September with us at Monticello? we shall all be happy to possess you there, and I believe you cannot find a healthier or cooler position for those two months. I was enabled to get for Fayette, at the last session of Congress, a change of location of his 11,000. acres of land, from the miserable remains North of Ohio, to the Orleans territory. we shall get him some of the prime lands in the island of New Orleans, near the city, and others on the opposite shore. it has increased the value of the donation from 5. to 10. times it’s original value: and I hope he will quit the empire of France for a residence at New Orleans. accept my affectionate salutations, & assurances of constant esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (DLC: Short Papers); at foot of text: “Mr. Short”; endorsed by Short as received at New York on 17 July. Nota tion in SJL: “500. D.” TJ opened an account with the Wash ington branch of the bank of the United States on 6 June with a deposit of $2,000.
In his financial memoranda, he recorded withdrawing $700 from the bank on this day and enclosing a bank note of $500 to Short’s Philadelphia broker, George Tay lor. A letter of this day from TJ to Taylor was recorded in SJL but has not been found (mb, 2:1128, 1131).
Petition of James Snow, with Jefferson’s Order The Humble petition of James Snow Humbley sheweth, That Your unfortunate petitioner is a prisoner confined in the Gaol of Alexandria on a fine of One hundred Dollars. Your unfortunate petitioner is truely Sensible of his errors, which he has been led into from his Youth & indiscretion, by designing Men, Your petitioner has been confined Twenty Months without the Smallest prospect of relif but from the Clemency of Your Excellencey, and being confined in a Gaol in the prime of Youth, having no powers to Serve my Country or myself as a Good Citizen aught to do, Humbley pray that Your Ex cellencey, will pitty my condition, and forgive my offence, And Your Petitioner in Duty bound will ever pray, James Snow 59
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July 9th. 1804 The Undersigned Judges of the Circuit Court of the District of Co lumbia have been applied to by the above petitioner James Snow to recommend the remission of his fine.— We Know of nothing in his Character or Conduct to entitle him In point of Justice to such remission; on the Contrary we consider that his crime, which was, perjury, was properly punishable by imprison ment, putting in the pillory and fine. the Term of the imprisonment by the first part of the sentence is expired, and he is now confined on account of the fine. We are satisfied that he has no means of paying the fine, and in consideration of that circumstance, of the length of his imprisonment, of the expence incurred thereby to the United States, and of the possibility of his reformation, we are induced to rec ommend and do respectfully recommend to the president the remis sion of his fine as prayed by him in order that he may be discharged from further imprisonment— W Kilty N. Fitzhugh [Order by TJ:] Let a pardon issue
Th: Jefferson July 17. 04.
RC (DNA: RG 59, GPR); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Snow; at head of text: “To His Excellencey Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; recom mendation of the judges in a clerk’s hand, signed by William Kilty and Nicholas Fitzhugh. unfortunate petitioner: during its June 1803 session at Alexandria, the U.S. Circuit Court for the District of Co
lumbia found Snow, a “yeoman,” guilty of committing perjury at the November 1802 trial of William Galloway. The court sentenced Snow to six months’ imprison ment and one hour in the pillory and fined him $100 (Tr of circuit court proceedings against Snow in DNA: RG 59, GPR, at tested by George Deneale, 12 July). TJ issued a pardon of Snow’s fine on 19 July (FC in Lb in same).
To Thomas Whitney Sir Washington July 9. 04. I inclose you a postnote on the bank of the US. at Philadelphia drawn by the branch bank here, in discharge of a bill for instruments to that amount furnished to Isaac Briggs partly for him & partly for myself. Accept my salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (MoSHi: Jefferson Papers); at foot of text: “Mr. Thomas Whitney”; en dorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “50.”
The $50 that TJ sent to Whitney in cluded a remittance of $27 for isaac briggs and $23 for “mathematical instru
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1 0 J U LY 1 8 0 4 ments” for TJ, probably the brass rule and scale that he asked Briggs to obtain
for him in June (mb, 2:1130, 1131; Vol. 43:568).
To Victor Marie du Pont Dear Sir Washington July 10. 04. Having occasion to remit a sum of 250. Dollars to Stephen Catha lan of Marseilles, I take the liberty of asking a renewal of your former indulgence by giving me a bill of that value on your house in Paris, for which purpose I inclose you a post note for that sum drawn on the bank of the US. at New York by the branch bank here. it will be best that the bill should be payable to mr Cathalan himself, & not to me. Accept my friendly salutations & assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “M. Victor Dupont”; endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “250.”
Invoice from Henry Ingle Washington 10th 1804
Mr Thomas Jefferson Bot of Henry Ingle 1 doble Iron fore Plaine 2.00 1 do — do Jack do 1.25 1 do do Something do 1.12½ 8 Commode Handles @ 22 1.76 4 Rose do @ 12½ 0.50 $ 6.63½ Recd Payment in full $6.63½ Henry Ingle RC (MHi); partially dated; in Ingle’s hand; endorsed by TJ.
payment in full: in his financial memoranda at 11 July, TJ recorded pay ing Ingle $6.625 “for tools & ironmon gery” (mb, 2:1132).
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To Jones & Howell Messrs. Jones and Howell Washington July 10. 04. If I recieved from you a bill for the two tons of nail rod shipped (I believe) in the latter part of April, it has got mislaid, so that I cannot find it. I therefore inclose you 250. D. which must be about the sum, in a post note on the bank of the US. drawn by the branch bank here. Accept my friendly salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Messrs. Jones & Howell”; endorsed by TJ. Nota tion in SJL: “250. D.”
recieved from you a bill: see Jones & Howell to TJ, [13 Apr. 1804]; TJ to Jones & Howell, 16 May; and mb, 2:1131.
From John Page Richmond July 10th. 1804
Your Favour my dear Friend of the 25th. ulto. has been too long be fore me, not to require an Apology. for although I might have been much longer at a loss how to express myself on the melancholy sub ject of your letter; I ought before this, to have heartily thanked you, for myself Mrs. Page & family, for your friendly & kind invitation to Monticello. But whilst I thanked you, I wished to be able to promise our acceptance of your Invitation; & had hoped that certain circum stances would, by this day, have enabled me with all human certainty to assure you that in August or September Mrs. Page & myself with a part of our Family would wait on you with pleasure. As yet, I can only say, that we earnestly hope that we may be enabled to enjoy that happiness. Indisposed & much engaged in business, I must beg to be excused for not taking notice of the other parts of your letter, & for only adding at present, our best Thanks & wishes for your happiness, and my assurances of my respect & Esteem being my dear Sir your sincerely affectionate Friend John Page RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 18 July and so recorded in SJL.
From Samuel Smith Sir/ Balt. 10. July 1804 Permit me to have the honor of presenting to you Mr. Peter Hoff man, a Merchant of this City, of the first respectability, Independence & political Rectitude—he Visits you in Company with Mr. J. G. Rapp— 62
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who has emigrated at the head of a large number of persons lately Subjects of the Duke of Wirtemberg, in whose behalf he will present a Memorial & State their Wishes—I have on looking at the Law passed in favor of Dufour & Associates, in 1802, been led to hope that Congress would pass a similar Law in Behalf of those people—Their making a Settlement so far in land would unquestionably Induce other persons to establish in their Neighbourhood & thus Enhance the Value of the public Land—I Need not offer Observation to you on a subject so well understood by you—but take farther this liberty to pray you to give some Attention to the Views of those people & the Observations of my good friend Mr. Hoffman & have the honor to be Your Obedt servt. S. Smith RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 12 July and so recorded in SJL. similar law: in order to encourage the production of domestic wines, Con gress had allowed Swiss vinedresser John James Dufour and his associates to pur chase up to four sections of land “be tween the Great Miami river and the In dian boundary line” for the standard two
dollars an acre, payable without interest within 11 years (U.S. Statutes at Large, 6:478; Vol. 36:376n). Under the gen eral acts in force for sale of public lands, purchasers could buy land at no interest, but would need to repay the government within four years and in annual install ments, with a six percent penalty applied to late payments (U.S. Statutes at Large, 2:281; Vol. 33:197).
From Thomas Truxtun Sir Perth Amboy 10th July 1804. on leaving New York for my present residence here a friend on whom I called to take leave put into my hand a newspaper published by Major Jackson in Philadelphia. In this paper some person either from ignorance or Jealousy which I deem worse—has undertaken to make a Comparative statement between the Cost of materials and expence of labour in building the frigates United States and Constella tion, the former at Philadelphia, the latter at Baltimore. The Statement is not a fair one and tho’ it appears to be made from documents in the Registers Office which in the aggregate may be correct, Yet there are circumstances that ought to be known to elucidate the facts stated. I am willing as an individual that each state throughout the union should boast its advantages in every respect, and claim its rights fairly on honorable ground, but publick statements made more particulary under the colour of a State register should be understood before they are exhibited to the animadversions of an extensive community. Truth and every noble sentiment of the Soul induces me regardless of political tenet’s to give some explanation of what would otherwise 63
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appear a phenomenon. In the Year 1794 when six frigates was or dered to be built in virtue of an act of congress for that purpose—The Administration considered it good policy to distribute the publick work in this Department as much as possible and being often con sulted at that time on marine Subjects, I mentioned to general Knox Secy of war—that six navy Yard Establishments—six master builders & other artificers with their appendages for the purpose of building six frigates appeared to me to be going great lengths for the gratifica tion of a few individuals, and that the expence of building and equip ing the ships on such a system would exceed his greatest calculations— whereas the building of two ships together in one Yard and having but three Yard establishments, would, besides lessening the expence 33⅓ Cent facilitate the progress of the work and give many and vari ous advantages which I stated—but which would exceed the bounds of a common letter to state here. Pecuniary considerations however in this particular were probably a secondary motive only for at once mak ing six Yard Establishments—that of policy by reconcilling the thing generally was no doubt the first—It may have been right, tho’ at this time, it is unnecessary for me to give any opinion on that ground. In the month of July of the Year Just mentioned or thereabouts, the places of building being conclusively determined on, to viz. Portsmouth— Boston—New York—Philadel—Baltimore and Norfolk—the minis ter of war politely offered me to make choice of the ship to be built at Portsmouth, or that to be built at Baltimore. I determined to take the latter and proceeded to meet the appointed master builder and agent at Baltimore and fix the site most proper for a navy Yard which being done I returned to Philadelphia for a few days to report to the secy of war what we had concluded on and to make further arrangements and it was then I urged the purchase for publick use of the grounds laid out, stating with precision the situation, as a good one; that it was bounded on one side by a Creek which nature had more than half made a bason or wet dock for the deposit of ship timber and other useful purposes, and that in the unimproved state of that eligible spot for marine building, it could be bought for a Sum not exceeding what the rent would amount to in a few Years—and that if it was not pur chased by the US it would probably be difficult hereafter to get it on any terms that would warrant a purchase for naval purposes, as it would become highly valuable to the proprieter by the improvements made at the expence of the US, and from the Numbers who would be induced to build and settle near the Yard for the purpose of accom modating the work people and others who would wish to participate in the publick favour as artificers—all these things and more I stated 64
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to General Knox and he said he saw the force of my observations but the purchase could not be made for the law authorised no purchase of that sort—I then stated or repeated that the running out a long wharf was indispensable on account of the shoalness of the water—and that the expence once gone into for this and other purposes—more than one hundred ships might alternately be built with the same conve nience as one ship, and with but little additional expence for repairs. In Philadelphia but little preparatory expence was necessary for com mencing the building of a frigate—no extensive wharf was necessary to run out—on the contrary the expence of the wharf at Baltimore was monstrous in driving a great number of piles—filling up by carting a great space with earth—laying a solid and secure foundation over new made ground (on which so heavy a Ship was to be immediately built) to prevent such an accident as happened to the frigate consti tution at Boston, which was very near being fatal to that ship in the Opperation of launching, when only a small part of the ground under her was newly made which settled. there can be no one so ignorant as not to know the immence quantity of timber Iron and other materials consumed in such a wharf as that built at Baltimore or to form a pretty accurate estimate of them, I mentioned this previous to its commence ment and also the expence of the labour add to which there was a suitable rigging loft—stone houses and other necessary places built for the carrying on the various branches of business and this was all unavoidable in a place of that sort, so different from Philadelphia— the boats oars water casks &c were built and made in the yard, the timber and materials of which were of course as well as the labour placed against the frigate for it was not an easy matter in this sort of establishment just commenced to keep an accurate and Seperate Ac count tho’ attempted—besides the master builder over whom there was by Instructions little controul except that of compelling a strict adherence to building agreeable to the model determined on by the Government, which I did not altogether approve but which I would not suffer the smallest deviation from, was inclined as was evident, and as I saw it so I often told him, he wished it to appear that as much of the labour and materials expended on the wharf, out houses and such other indispensable preparations as were made should stand as expended on the frigate in the account of expenditures—for he did not like to be told of the great improvements made on his property at the expense of the US—I do not mean by this to charge the builder with fraud, far from it. his opinion was founded under an Idea that it made no difference in the aggregate to the US whether the money appeared expended on the wharf &c or on the ship, so that no unnecessary sums 65
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were expended, but I early saw that it would make a very consider able difference in the publick mind when the most eligible places for building were discussed. Under this view of the subject which is as accurately stated as truth and Justice demands that it should be—I am under a beleif that if the building of the frigates United States & Constellation had commenced under equal advantages—that the latter frigate would not have cost more per ton than the former—tho’ they had at that time advantages in Philadelphia which Baltimore could not enjoy—It was the Seat of Government—Mr Francis the purveyor and general agent had local prejudices to indulge—Articles made for the US and rejected by Barry: Francis would send off to Baltimore where they were received by order however objectionable. Contracts were made there too for many articles for the US whereas at Baltimore similar articles were made in the Yard by daily labour for the constellation or procured under Mr Francis’s contracts and sent thither at a heavy expence of freight.—Mr Francis is dead but there are living those who know that I repeatedly told him I saw how matters were managed—Mr McHenry must remember all I assert—I had many long conversations with him on the Subject and he was the last secy of war who had controul over the affairs of the Navy previ ous to the Office of Secy of the navy being created—he may Remem ber too that in Contradistinction to Mr Francis’s constant declarations that Philadelphia was the best calculated for a Naval port—I had on every occasion when present to convince those he endeavoured to impress with such beleif—that it was the very worst—particulary on account of the dangers of that Bay & River for large ships navigating at all seasons especially in the winter season where there was no se curity (notwithstanding the rapidity of the tides) against the Ice and to make it secure against that danger piers at great expence must be Sunk of a particular construction. Innumerable other disadvantages I constantly pointed out—to show the folly of ever thinking of Phila delphia as a navy port and had to combat two or three others besides Francis who were strenuous advocates for it. My sentiments here given I do not wish concealed—I pronounce them every where—but I have an objection to newspaper Editors in troducing any extracts from my letters and I trust the motives that have induced me to write You this will be a security against my being plunged into a paper controversy, for such would be the case when men (perhaps interested mechanicks) cannot feel as members of a great nation, but confine their attachments to a less space than the mere extension of their view from their own doors.—Altho’ I have an 66
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objection to the publication of my communication to you made in good faith—I must repeat that I have not the smallest objection to what I have said being mentioned as my declarations, in consequence of the erroneous impressions intended to give the publick by the compara tive statement in Major Jacksons paper of the building the two ships quoated.—I have the honor to be very respectfully Your obedient humble servant. Thomas Truxtun PS. Neither Pennsylvania or any state Northward & Eastward of it produces such excellent oaks for ship building as the margin of Chese peake bay—the Neighbourhood of Norfolk produces only pine calcu lated for masts & spars for large ships built North of that place—the expence of transporting by inland navigation oak timber & spars is very inconsiderable and the risk trifling when compared to the ex pence & risk of this sort of transportation by sea—hence Baltimore on these accounts is a much more Eligible place for building frigates and smaller vessels than Philadelphia, but there are other consider ations equally weighty. In the Navy Yard at Baltimore one frigate & several small vessels may be built at the same time. this is put under cover to Mr Nourse without his knowing the contents. TT RC (DLC); above postscript: “His Ex cellency Thomas Jefferson Esqr President of the US.”; endorsed by TJ as received 13 July and so recorded in SJL. An article written by “A Mechanic” in the 3 July issue of the Political and Com-
mercial Register, a Federalist newspaper published by William Jackson in phila delphia, criticized TJ and Robert Smith for concentrating naval construction in southern ports.
To John Armstrong of New York Dear Sir Washington July 11. 04. I inclose you according to promise a letter for mr Skipwith whom you will find a good humoured and rigorously honest man. I also trouble you with one for La Fayette which is extremely important to him as it contains interesting information on the subject of his Loui siana grant of lands which will apprise him of their immense value, and prevent any inconsiderate disposal of them. the school which I mentioned to you was on the rue neuve de Berri opposite the hotel de Langeac in which I lived, on the grande route through the Champs Elysees to St. Germains. it is kept by a Monsr. Le Moine, a most ex cellent man, and profoundly learned, to whom be so good as to remem ber me. indeed I recommend that hotel to you as in the pleasantest 67
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situation in Paris. I gave 6000. livres a year, rent. I shall shortly take the liberty of troubling you with some other letters to Paris. accept my friendly salutations & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Genl. Armstrong”; endorsed by TJ. Enclosures: (1) TJ to Fulwar Skipwith, 11 July. (2) TJ to Lafayette, 27 June. the school commonly known in Paris as the Institution Polytechnique was founded for the education of the young nobility by Edme Marie Joseph Lemoine
d’Essoies, a mathematics and physics teacher who was also the author of sev eral books on geography, geometry, and arithmetic (Howard C. Rice, Jr., Thomas Jefferson’s Paris [Princeton, 1976], 53; J. C. F. Hoefer, Nouvelle biographie générale depuis les temps les plus reculés jusqu’a nos jours, 46 vols. [Paris, 1855 66], 30:619; Sowerby, No. 3839).
To Stephen Cathalan, Jr. Dear Sir Washington July 11. 04. Your favor of July 12. came to hand the 14th. of Octob. and some time after that the fruits and wine arrived safe according to invoice. you mentioned that you reserved a part of the commission, to wit for the dried fruits till the season advanced & should give those that would be fresh. I put off answering you therefore in the expectation that I might make one remittance for the whole, till in fact other mat ters prevented my attention to it. I mention this, not that the non arrival of these articles has been of any inconvenience, but to give the true cause of my being so late in answering you. the fruits &c. which came were very good; one of the kinds of Hermitage wine, stated in the invoice under this description ‘3. bottles White Hermitage Virgin 1795. Jourdan’ was most excellent: I have never seen a wine please more. the other quality, called de Loche, of which there were 47. bot tles was not liked. it was hard, somewhat like the Grave & the Rhen ish wines. the amount of the invoice was 885. F. which if I calculate your new money rightly is about 170. D. to which adding 400. F. for 100. bottles of the Hermitage Virgin of Jourdan, now asked, comes to about 250. D. for which sum I now send you a bill on the house of Dupont at Paris. I will ask the favor of you to give very particular orders that the quality be the same, & that it be shipped to any port between New York and Norfolk, but especially not South of Norfolk, addressed to the Collector of the customs of the port; and that it be sent without delay, that I may recieve it for the ensuing session of Congress which begins early in November. I should trouble you more for the produce of your canton if it were convenient for you to draw on me for the price at the time of shipment payable here. but I pre 68
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sume you do not want money here. present me respectfully to all your good family, and accept yourself my friendly salutations & assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson P.S. July 20. 04. When I wrote the preceding, I had not recieved the bill of Mr. Dupont. it is now at hand and the 1st. is inclosed for 1312½ Francs. the duplicate & triplicate will be simply inclosed to you with out letters. the present goes by Genl. Armstrong our Minister Plen. to Paris, successor to mr Livingston. I take the liberty of inclosing to you a letter for mr Appleton our Consul at Leghorn, which covers a bill of exchange & which therefore I will pray you to send by a safe conveyance and as speedily as may be. Th:J. RC (Archives municipales, Marseilles, France); at foot of first page: “M. Catha lan” and “turn over” (postscript on verso). PoC (MHi); postscript added; endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “& P.S. July 20. with Exche. 1312½ fr.” Enclosures: (1) TJ
to Thomas Appleton, 19 July. (2) Bill of exchange on Paris for 1,312½ francs; see Victor Marie du Pont & Co. to TJ, 16 July; mb, 2:1133. Enclosed in TJ to John Armstrong, 20 July.
To Fulwar Skipwith Dear Sir Washington July 11. 04. This will be handed you by Genl. Armstrong appointed the succes sor of Chancellor Livingston at Paris. being the brother in law of the Chancellor, between whom & yourself he learns there has been some misunderstanding, he expressed to me apprehensions lest you should imagine he succeeded to the animosities of the Chancellor as well as to his office. I undertook therefore to remove that fear by writing a line to you. no man thinks more for himself than Genl. Armstrong, and no man less influenced by family partialities than him. you may therefore rest assured that you will commence your acquaintance with him without the least tincture of prejudice from what has passed with his predecessor. it would be well if you could convey the same assur ances to the board of Commissioners, as it would tend to the public service to have all it’s functionaries moving in harmony. The Champagne you were so kind as to send me the last year proved to be very good. that wine is so much the taste here that we cannot do without it hereafter: and I should have troubled you this year for a similar provision to the last, but that a very good batch was fortunately offered me here, on reasonable terms, which I thought it best to secure & avoid the delay & risks of importation. the risk of breakage alone is 69
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very great, as of the 400. bottles recieved through you, though well packed, 153. had burst, or forced out the cork & the wine lost. accept my friendly salutations & assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (NjMoHP); addressed: “Fulwar Skipwith esq. Paris” and “favored by Genl. Armstrong.” PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ. Enclosed in TJ to John Arm strong, 11 July. An undated inventory of champagne by Étienne Lemaire with additional cal culations by TJ recorded that of the 400
bottles, 247 were usable and 153 were lost, a calculation that TJ repeated in his financial memoranda (MS in MoSHi: Jef ferson Papers; in Lemaire’s hand, with additional calculations by TJ; at head of text: “Conte due Vin Chanpâgne”; en dorsed by TJ: “Skipwith Fulwar. break age in the Champagne he sent me in 1803”; mb, 2:1116, 1122).
To Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Washington July 12. 04. I have this moment been called on by mr Hoffman & mr Rapp on the subject which will be explained to you in the memorial now in closed. they became sensible that the matter rested with Congress only; but 200. of the people being arrived at Baltimore and two ships hourly expected with as many more each, they cannot remain here till the meeting of Congress for want of funds. they will therefore pro ceed to the place which mr Rapp (who has been exploring the coun try) has pitched on, on Sandy creek of Muskingham river, where they wish to have 40,000. as. at the usual price, but with longer indul gence as to the time of paiment. I told them I would immediately write to you to consider what we could do for them. I supposed we could forbid our officers to disturb them if they sat down on our lands; but that you could best judge whether we could prevent Speculators from locating & purchasing the lands the moment they should sit down on them, with a view to screw money from them, and could best advise them how to proceed to secure themselves till Congress should meet and determine whether they may have an indulgence of any sort. will you be so good as to consider of it, and to address a letter to mr Hoff man their friend at Baltimore giving them the best advice you can? I told them I would write to them on recieving your answer; but it is much better it should come from you to them direct, as I shall be gone hence in ten days. the Osages arrived yesterday, have been re cieved today & will enter on business tomorrow. they are twelve men & two boys, and certainly the most gigantic men we have ever seen. Affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson 70
1 2 J U LY 1 8 0 4 RC (NHi: Gallatin Papers); at foot of text: “Mr. Gallatin.” PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “Hoffman & Rapp.” Enclosure not found.
From Thomas Munroe Sir, 12th. July 1804 Three or four Irishmen, whose names were returned on the list of those who misbehaved on the 2d. Instant, have been with me several times, begging that they may be permitted to go to work again, and promising that their best endeavors shall be used in future to make amends for the misconduct in which they are implicated—There mis erable appearance, penitence and humility, the accounts of their nu merous, helpless and almost starving families, their repeated declara tions that ignarance, and the fear of ill treatment by Kyan, Dent, Fahey and others, their misleaders, had caused them reluctantly to leave off work, but not ’till after all the Cartmen had quit, which rendered their work as Shovelmen of but little use—and their further declaration that this indiscretion, and its consequences will be an useful lesson to them, induced me to make enquiry concerning them, and I find their statements are corroborated by the Overseer and several of the Amer ican, & other hands now at work, who, as well as some Gentlemen of the City (who written and conversed with me on the subject) speak favorably of the industry and general conduct of the petitioners— As there is good reason to believe that the behavior of these men was not so reprehensible as was supposed, and that 8 or 10 only out of about 201 were very much to blame, the others being unduly influenced, and almost incapable of discriminating between right & wrong; my duty, and a sense of justice to the public as well as to them seems to require that I should make the circumstances known to you, Sir, as I am told they were the most dexterous & useful Shovelmen we had, and that there being reinstated is desirable, it being probable they will behave well here after—they appear to be so ignorant and sorry for what has happened, and are said to be so poor and distressed as (I think)2 to deserve pity & forgiveness, and to afford good grounds to expect they will behave well in future—. I have the Honor to be with the most respectful Consideration Sir, Yr mo Obt Servt Thomas Munroe RC (DLC); at foot of text: “President of the US.”; endorsed by TJ as received 13 July and “mutineers” and so recorded in SJL.
on the list: see Munroe to TJ, 3 July. Another gentleman of the city, Mayor Robert Brent, wrote Munroe on 13 July. Brent requested that the superintendent
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1 2 J U LY 1 8 0 4 reconsider the firings of those workmen who “may not have been particularly for ward in this business.” Many had come to him “expressing their sorrow & regret at their late misconduct.” Brent named in particular Mark Crowley, “an honest in dustrious & peaceable labourer” who sup
ported his family entirely from his sum mer earnings in hopes of sustaining them through the winter (DLC). 1 Figure and preceding three words in terlined. 2 Words in parentheses interlined.
To White Hair and Others My Children White hairs, Chiefs & Warriors of the Osage nation July 12. 1804. I recieve you with great pleasure at the seat of the govmt of the 17. United nations, and tender you a sincere welcome. I thank the Great Spirit who has inspired you with a desire to visit your new friends, & who has conducted you in safety to take us this day by the hand. the journey you have come is long, the weather has been warm & wet, & I fear you have suffered on the road, not withstanding our endeavors for your accomodation. but you have come through a land of friends, all of whom I hope have looked on you kindly, & been ready to give you every aid and comfort by the way. You are as yet fatigued with your journey. but you are under the roof of your fathers and best friends, who will spare nothing for your refreshment and comfort. repose yourselves therefore, and recruit your health and strength, and when you are rested we will open the bottoms of our hearts more fully to one another. in the mean time we will be considering how we may best secure everlasting peace, friend ship & commerce between the Osage nation, and the 17. United na tions in whose name I speak to you, and take you by the hand. Th: Jefferson MS (DLC); “My Children” in salu tation inserted in margin in place of “Brother.” White Hair (d. 1809), or Pawhuska, was head chief of the Big Osage band. Little is known of his early life, but chieftain ships among the Osages were generally hereditary, and evidence suggests that he was closely related to (though not the son of) Clermont, the most significant Osage leader during the late eighteenth century. During the 1790s, White Hair developed a mutually beneficial relationship with the Chouteaus, who had been granted a monopoly of the Spanish trade with the
Osages. With the help of Pierre Chou teau, he assumed leadership of the Big Osages and, unlike his predecessors, re jected the sharing of political power with another leader. White Hair’s innovation resulted in dissensions within the nation, but the Big Osages retained the concept of singular leadership, with subsequent hereditary leaders taking the name Paw huska. In 1808, White Hair signed the first treaty between the United States and the Osages (anb; Rollings, The Osage, 45, 478, 15961, 1768, 209). sincere welcome: the Osage dele gation arrived in Washington on 11 July; see TJ to Gallatin, 12 July.
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Notes on Speeches of White Hair and Dog Soldier he has come on the recomedn of Capt Lewis * has come on his recommedn. quite ignorant
[12 July 1804]
* has come thro’ midst of enemies but is now satisfied & glad he has come that Choteau has brot up all these young men has taught them our ways, & therefore he has chosen them to come with him. * he has seen truly that the murders were on people not coming by order of the govmt ☞ come crying 5. killed 2. burnt. has seen without our ackng has come with pain as all the rests hopes to get back better comes with head down, hopes to go back with it up my brother had well advised me therefor I have found less difficulty long since I desired to see greatest chief. I now see him I come with a man who [. . .]. see all those people who come ☞ desires nobody may go to his village till he returns ☞ his nation is large—never been well supplied with merchandise— hopes we will do it ☞ since 2. years village divided in 2. this has occasioned difficulties they commit depredns. he wishes to reunite them. this depends on us. it is a chief separated through anger. prays us to reunite them. he hopes we will grant him this favor. altho’ he will be far from us he will always recieve our words with pleasure & remember what we say to him here. ☞ I am young. come to hear your counsels. my father has come &c. given me a medal. ☞ hopes have consdn for him. hopes that tho’ he is under the other chief, we will give him things separately for his village
his father dead: he is young. Choteau raised him, made him chief with Spain. hopes we will continue him the favor of Spain. distant1 nations have driven him from the Missouri, because he was weak. he has put himself under the other chief for protection
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tho young will not forget our counsels when he gets back will always remember with pleasure having seen us.
hopes we will have quelques egards pour lui. MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 142:245967); entirely in TJ’s hand, written rapidly, one word faint; endorsed by TJ: “Speech of Whitehairs Great chief of the Osages. 1804: July. 12. 04.” The name Dog Soldier was a transla tion for Soldat du Chien, which may have been a corruption of Soldat du Chêne, or Oak Soldier. The Little Osage leader who journeyed to Washington may have been the son of an Osage called Soldat du Chêne, who traveled to New Orleans in 1794 as part of a delegation meeting with the Spanish governor and who was killed by some Chickasaws on his return up river. Auguste Chouteau, who had accom panied the delegation, presented the medal the Spanish gave to Soldat du Chêne to his son, thereby encouraging a hereditary conferral of rank. In a statistical abstract on Indians he encountered, Zebulon Pike identified Watchkinsingow, or Soldat du Chien, as second chief of the Little Osages. His lieutenant James B. Wilkinson, how ever, reported meeting with an impor tant leader named Soldier of the Oak at a Little Osage village. The same leader may have been identified as Voithe Chinga, second chief of the Little Osages, in the treaty signed between the Osages and the United States in 1808 (Rollings, The Osage, 1737; Donald Jackson, ed., The Journals of Zebulon Montgomery Pike: With Letters and Related Documents, 2 vols. [Norman, Okla., 1966], 2:45, 401; U.S. Statutes at Large, 7:110). For the murders of a party of Osages, see TJ to Dearborn, 29 June. village divided: possibly a reference to the Arkansas band of Osages, who had
been a distinct group for several decades but had recently been drawing off war riors alienated by the leadership of White Hair. It could also be a reference to fol lowers of Black Dog, an Osage leader who, similarly discontented, established a new village about 1803 (Rollings, The Osage, 15962; Kathleen DuVal, The Native Ground: Indians and Colonists in the Heart of the Continent [Philadelphia, 2006], 1704, 204; Sturtevant, Handbook, 13, pt. 1:484; TJ to White Hair and Others, 16 July). i am young: despite TJ’s endorsement, the content of these notes suggests that more than one Osage leader delivered an address when meeting the president. Youth is likely not a descriptor that White Hair would have applied to himself. Fur thermore, the references to the receipt of a medal, to having been driven from the Missouri River, which indicates a leader of the Little Osage band, and to one of the Chouteans acting as a father figure imply that the final section of TJ’s notes records the address of Dog Soldier. The Little Osages had occupied villages along the Missouri River while the Big Osage villages were traditionally on the Osage River (TJ to Dog Soldier, 16 July; Roll ings, The Osage, 559). quelques egards pour lui: that is, some considerations for him. It seems likely that TJ heard the addresses in French from Pierre Chouteau as each chief spoke in Osage. TJ prepared French ver sions of his replies to White Hair and Dog Soldier (see below, 16 July).
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1 Word
interlined in place of “foreign.”
From Abraham Bishop Sir Collectors Office New Haven July 13th. 1804. I have the honor to inclose an address from the Merchants in this district in behalf of Mr Peter Totten & am, Sir with perfect respect Yr Obdt Servt Abm Bishop Collr. RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at head of text: “To the President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 16 July and “Totten Peter to be Consul” and so recorded in SJL.
e n c l o s u r e
Memorial of Merchants of New Haven, with Jefferson’s Query Sir. New Haven 13th July 1804 We are informed that Mr. Henry Cooper, lately American Consul at St. Croix has resigned his functions. As the principal commerce of this State, & especially of this District is at St. Croix, we shall esteem ourselves highly favor’d by the appointment of a Consul, of whose integrity & ability we have had experience. Mr. Peter Totten, who has acted as Vice Consul, since the first of April 1801, and who has done the principal business is personally known to us, and we beleive him highly worthy of the appointment as Consul for that Island. [Query by TJ:] What does mr Granger know of Totten, & what are the politics of the Petitioners? Th:J. RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Shipman & Denison, Alling, Hotchkiss & Co., Bradley & Mul ford, James Henry, Solomon Collis, Gillet & Townsend, Atwater & Daggett, Justus Hotchkiss, Anthony Perit, Frederick Hunt, John & Jesse Hunt, Smith, Woodward & Co., Hotchkiss, Townsend & Co., Ebene zer Huggins, John Nicoll, Eneas Monson, Jr., Joseph Drake, Isaac Beers, Abraham Bradley, Jr., Thaddeus Beecher, Elijah Thompson, William Lyon, Elnathan Att water, Samuel Huggins, Jr., H. Belden & Co., Edmund Finch, Jr., Samuel Hughes, William McCrackan & Son, L. & W. Hub bard, Jeremiah Townsend, Elias Beers, I. & K. Townsend, Eben Townsend, Jr., and Abel Burritt; TJ’s note in pencil at foot; at head of text: “To the President of the United States.”
Citing ill health, henry cooper re quested to resign as U.S. consul for the Danish West Indies in December 1802 and again in July 1803 (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 5:139; 8:570). In a let ter of 21 Jan. 1804, Richard H. Wilcocks applied to Madison for the post (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “to be consul St. Croix a red hot Federalist, young & wild”). Samuel Smith recom mended Wilcocks in a letter of 7 Feb., indicating that “the politicks of his family have not been Such as we respect, but never Violent” (same; endorsed by TJ: “to be consul St. Croix”). Writing the secretary of state from St. Croix on 17 Apr., Edward Dewhurst applied for the post, citing the support he had from friends in Philadelphia. TJ nominated Dewhurst (same; endorsed by TJ: “to be
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1 3 J U LY 1 8 0 4 Consul St. Croix, St. Thomas St. John v. Cooper”; TJ to the Senate, 11 Dec. 1804). politics of the petitioners: about half of the individuals and firms who signed the memorial had also signed the
June 1801 remonstrance of New Haven merchants against the appointment of Samuel Bishop as collector at that port (Vol. 34:3814).
From Joseph Donath Your Excellency Philadelphia 13 July 1804 Agreeably to your orders of the 24 Ulto I have shipped on board the Schooner Caroline one box of glass 12 by 15. contg. 77 lights. ad dressed to Messs. Gibson & Jefferson in Richmond, requesting them to hold the same at your disposal. The cost is $19.45. inclusive of porterage on board. No other opportunity offering to forward it sooner, I am sorry for the unavoidable delay, and remain respectfully Your Excellencys Most Hble. servt Jos. Donath RC (MHi); calculations relating to cost by TJ on verso; endorsed by TJ as re ceived 16 July and “77. panes = 19.45 @ .20 cents pr. foot” and so recorded in SJL.
For TJ’s orders for glass for skylights, see TJ to Donath, 24 June.
From Jones & Howell Respected Friend Philadela. 13th July 1804 Your esteemed favor of 10th is at hand Covering Two Hundred and fifty Dollars, which is to your Credit, and is 67 Cents more than the amt of the Iron Shippd you in april last. with much respect we remain Your Friends Jones & Howell RC (MHi); endorsed by TJ as received 16 July and so recorded in SJL.
From Thomas Munroe Sir, 13 July 1804 The writer of the enclosed Letter delivered it to me in person, and requested it might be laid before you; and as the style is not indecent or disrespectful I do not percieve any sufficient objection to com plying with the request and therefore do myself the honor of enclos ing it—. 76
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I Have the Honor to be with the utmost respect Sir Yr mo Ob Hum Servt. Thomas Munroe RC (DLC); at foot of text: “President”; endorsed by TJ as received 13 July and “Davidson’s petn” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found.
writer of the enclosed: Samuel Davidson; see TJ to Munroe, 14 July (first letter).
Notes on Appointments ✓
[on or before 13 July 1804]
Minister to Paris. Commrs. to Spain.
Genl. John Armstrong. Jonathan Russell Pierpoint Edwards Bowdoin Young. Peleg Morton Irving.
Tunis. ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Mass. Skinner R.I. Foster? N.Y. Few. Distr. Atty N.H. Daniel Humphreys Marshl. Maryld. Thos. Rutter Marblehead. Surveyor & Inspector. Joshua Prentis. Charleston S.C. Commr. of loans Isaac Neufville if his father dies Commrs. loans.
MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25351); undated; entirely in TJ’s hand, on reverse of another set of Notes on Appointments, printed at 30 Aug. TJ likely began this list of candidates sometime in May, when he offered sev eral of them recess appointments (TJ to
John Armstrong of New York, 26 May; Memorandum on Appointments, 29 May). TJ subsequently added information about the potential nomination of Isaac Neuf ville, whose father’s illness was reported in a letter of 4 July from Peter Freneau, which TJ received on 13 July.
To Robert Smith Dear Sir Washington July 13. 04. I should be much better pleased to see a due proportion of candi dates for the place of midshipmen from the North. they ought not to expect to reap that whereon they have bestowed no labour, nor where 77
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others have laboured that they should reap the fruits. I am sorry they are not disposed to make the sacrifice of time & money necessary by which our young midshipmen qualify themselves for service, and that this disposition seems confined to the middle & South. I wonder to see so much of it in Virginia which is so much more agricultural than Nautical. I do not know the young man for whom the inclosed letter asks a midshipman’s place; but I know well his parents & family generally. from these he ought to be a good man. his father is an ex cellent one and well educated. if his request for his son is admissible you must be so good as to drop me a line saying so, that I may en quire his name which you observe the father has omitted to give. The Osages arrived day before yesterday; had their first audience yesterday, & will have another today. they are the finest men we have ever seen. they have not yet learnt the use of spirituous liquors. we shall endeavor to impress them strongly not only with our justice & liberality, but with our power and therefore shall send them on to see our populous cities, Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York & Boston. the truth is they are the great nation South of the Missouri, their pos sessions extending from thence to the Red river, as the Sioux are great North of that river. with these two powerful nations we must stand well, because in their quarter we are miserably weak. I see nothing to prevent my departure on the 23d. Accept affectionate salutations and prayers for the health of your family. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Sec retary of the Navy.” Notation in SJL: “midshipman. Callis. Osages.” Enclosure: William O. Callis to TJ, 2 July. a due proportion: between 1800 and 1814, the states from New York to
Virginia accounted for nearly twothirds of all new commissions for midshipmen (Christopher McKee, A Gentlemanly and Honorable Profession: The Creation of the U.S. Naval Officer Corps, 1794-1815 [An napolis, 1991], 5963).
To the Ursuline Nuns of New Orleans [13 July 1804]
To the Soeur Therese de St. Xavier farjon Superior, and the Nuns of the order of St. Ursula at New Orleans I have recieved, holy sisters, the letter you have written me wherein you express anxiety for the property vested in your institution by the former governments of Louisiana. the principles of the constitution and government of the United states are a sure guarantee to you that it will be preserved to you sacred and inviolate, and that your institu tion will be permitted to govern itself according to it’s own voluntary 78
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rules, without interference from the civil authority. whatever diver sity of shade may appear in the religious opinions of our fellow citi zens, the charitable objects of your institution cannot be indifferent to any; and it’s furtherance of the wholesome purposes of society, by training up it’s younger members in the way they should go, cannot fail to ensure it the patronage of the government it is under. be as sured it will meet all the protection which my office can give it. I salute you, holy sisters, with friendship & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (Ursuline Academy, New Orleans); undated. PoC (DLC); with note by TJ at foot: “date omitted. it was 1804. July 13. or 14.” PrC (DNA: RG 59, MLR). Re
corded in SJL under 13 July. Enclosed in TJ to William C. C. Claiborne, 17 July. the letter: see Ursuline Nuns of New Orleans to TJ, 23 Apr.
From Joseph Yznardi, Sr. Exmo Señor Cadiz 13. Julio de 1804. My mas venerado Señor: Despues del contenido de mi ultima hé estado esperando favorables resueltas de mis asuntos dirigidos por la bondad de V.E. al examen del Secretario de estado. Las novedades politicas que ocurren en esta Corte son las de no haberse confirmado el convenio respecto á las Presas, á pezar de las activas solicitudes y Justas reclamas de Mr. Pinckney, cuya desagra dable situacion debe serme dolorosa considerando los perjuicios que pueden resultar á Ambas naciones, esta por las dilatadas empresas qe. há causado su neutralidad como las que deben esperarse del vasto Comercio tan general de esos Estados unidos. Aunque aqui se há divulgado que dho. Mr. Pinckney se retirará de la Corte, aun yo espero que tenga algun remedio evitandose el entre dicho que nos amaga; y de todos modos yo deseo á V.E. la mas completa Salud como el qe. Dios ntro Señor Gue su importante vida ms. as. Exmo. Señor BLM a V.E su mas obte. Servor. Josef Yznardy e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Most Excellent Sir, Cadiz, 13 July 1804 My most venerated sir. After the content of my last letter, I have been ex pecting favorable resolutions to my affairs directed by the kindness of your excellency to the consideration of the secretary of state.
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1 3 J U LY 1 8 0 4 The political news from the royal court is that they have not confirmed the convention regarding prizes, regardless of the active and just requests of Mr. Pinckney, whose unpleasant situation is painful to me considering the dam ages that might result to both nations. This is because of the lack of an agree ment has delayed ventures that should be expected from the vast and extensive commerce of those United States. Even though it has been said here that Mr. Pinckney will be leaving the court, I still expect that he has some remedy to avoid this situation that threat ens us. In any case, I wish for your excellency the most complete health and that God our Lord preserve your important life many years. Most excellent sir, your most obedient servant kisses your excellency’s hand. Josef Yznardy RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, closing and signature by Yznardi; at foot of text: “Exmo Sor. Dn. Tomas Jefferson”; en dorsed by TJ as received 4 Sep. and so recorded in SJL.
el convenio respecto á las pre sas: see TJ to the Senate, 21 Dec. 1803.
Notes on Upper Louisiana [before 14 July 1804]
Louisiana
probable numbers from latest accounts1
St. Andrews. St. Charles
361 840
1201.
1559
Marais des liards St. Ferdinand St. Louis Carondelet Marameg
337. 259 601. 181. 115
1493
1939
37–52 37–36
636 445 1081.2
37°–5′
Cape Girardeau
416
36–34
New Madrid Petite Prairie Lance la grace Arkansa
711 46.
38°–30′
38–15
35–40 34–15
80
1402
1173
2100
4948 4948
7000 7000
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There shall be a district to be called the district of St. Charles which shall comprehend the town of St. Charles as it’s chief post and all the part of Louisiana North of the river Missouri.
there shall be one other district to be called the district of St. Louis which shall comprehend the town of St. Louis as it’s chief post, and all that part of Louisiana South of the Missouri which is nearer to the town of St. Louis than to any other chief post.
there shall be one other district to be called the district of Ste. Gene vieve which shall comprehend the town of Ste. Genevieve as it’s chief post and all that part of Louisiana North of Table river which is nearer the town of Ste. Genevieve than to any other chief post.
there shall be one other district to be called the district of New Mad rid which shall comprehend the town of New Madrid as it’s chief post and all that part of Louisiana from Table river and a parallel of Latitude passing Westwardly from3 it’s Western source to the4 South ern boundary of the sd territory of Louisiana. Stoddert. June 3. whites blacks. N. of Missouri & West of Misipi 1219. 107. between Missouri & Platiné creek dividg. St. Louis & Genevieve 2519. 560. Ste. Genevieve. from Platiné cr. to Apple creek 1978. 520. Cape Girardeau & New Madrid. from Apple cr. to Little Prairie 2000. 300. Arkansas & 45. miles up it. 160. 12. 7876. 1497. 9373. 1. the District of St. Louis extends from the Missouri to Platiné creek 2. that of Ste. Genevieve from Platiné cr. to Apple creek 3. that of Cape Girardeau from Apple creek to the great bend of Mispi next5 abve. Madrid 4. that of New Madrid from to Little Prairie all of these are bounded Westwardly by the river St. Francis which at Ste. Genevieve is 50. miles distant at Cape Girardeau 30. at New Madrid 24. from Platine creek to the mouth of St. Francis is 370. miles 1. All that portion of Louisiana lying North of the river Missouri, shall constitute one district by the name of the District of St. Charles 81
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portion6
2. all that which heretofore constituted the district of St. Louis7 shall be one district by the name of the dist. of St. Louis 3. all that portion which heretofore constd. the distr of Ste. Genevieve8 shall be one district by the name of the distr. of Ste. Genevieve 4. all that portion which heretofore constd. the dist. of Cape Girardeau9 shall be one distr. by the name of the distr. of Cape Girardeau 5. all that portion which heretofore constd. the distr. of New Madrid and that lying Westward, & Southward thereof to 33.° of latitude shall be one district by the name of the distr. of New Madrid. & all the residue of sd country shall be divided by lines running due West from the Western termination of the present lines dividing the sd districts and each division thereof so formed shall be an nexed to & make part of the district to which it is adjacent MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 137:23686); entirely in TJ’s hand on a clipped address leaf with remnant text in an unidentified hand. TJ compiled these notes on both sides of a single sheet of paper. The work was clearly done in several different sittings as information became available to him. Statistics for st. andrews and other communities in upper Louisiana match census data from 1799, which Daniel Clark sent to Madison in August 1803. TJ chose to replicate only the figures Clark supplied for the white population of each locality, although Clark’s data also in cluded population totals for free blacks, slaves, and “free mulattoes” (DNA: RG 59, TP, Orleans; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 5:31718; Vol. 41:258n). The source for updated population figures along the right margin of that section of the notes is less certain. The population total of 7,000, however, matches the total for upper Louisiana that appeared in an issue of the New Orleans Moniteur de la Louisiane. Although the issue in question is no longer extant, a transcription of an article entitled “Population de la Loui siane” ended up in TJ’s papers. The arti cle listed population totals for all the major territorial divisions, as defined by the Spanish, for lower Louisiana. The Moniteur did not specify totals for most indi vidual localities in upper Louisiana, but did add New Madrid’s 1802 population of 1,500 to an 1803 estimate of 5,500 per
sons living in the communities north of New Madrid (MS in DLC: TJ Papers, 146:253656; in a clerk’s hand; endorsed by TJ: “Moniteur de la Louisiane. 1804. Apr. 7.” and “Louisiana. population”). Those figures, as well as TJ’s first effort to delineate district boundaries for upper Louisiana, all of which he entered on the recto of the sheet, clearly predate the in formation that Amos Stoddard (stod dert) sent Dearborn in a letter of 3 June 1804. Stoddard’s population totals and geographic divisions match the informa tion that TJ entered on the verso and appear to have encouraged the president to revise the districts he had previously worked out. On 14 July, he informed William Henry Harrison of his determi nation to divide Louisiana District into five districts, which roughly conformed to those established under Spanish gov ernance. Stoddard had separately advised Harrison on a different districting plan, which would have combined the St. Louis and St. Charles districts and created a new district for Arkansas. Harrison ad vised the president to adopt this plan in his letter of 24 June, but TJ did not re ceive that letter until 28 July and did not change his instructions (Glimpses of the Past, 2 [1935], 10410; William E. Foley, The Genesis of Missouri: From Wilderness Outpost to Statehood [Columbia, Mo., 1989], 84; Vol. 43:6402). 1 Written perpendicular to “1559” at top right margin.
82
1 4 J U LY 1 8 0 4 2 TJ
overwrote this figure in recalculat ing the total, and rewrote the numbers for clarity. 3 TJ first wrote “the parallel of Latitude of” before altering the phrase to read as above. 4 TJ here canceled “33d degr.” 5 Word interlined. 6 Here and at this place in the descrip tions of the other districts below, TJ can celed “of Louisiana.”
7 TJ here interlined and then canceled “and that which lies Westward from that district thereof & Northward to the Missipi.” 8 TJ here interlined and canceled “and that which lies Westward thereof.” 9 TJ here interlined and canceled “and that which lies Westward thereof.”
From Richard Claiborne Sir Washington M T 14th. July 1804. Generous motives, and impulses of sentiment in one person to wards another who is susceptible of like virtues, renders apology for intrusions unnecessary. Since I have been here,—when intervals from public business would permit me—and they have been few indeed—I have employed those intervals in the execution of two objects—towit: a short biographical & geographical account of this part of our Country—founded in the best information I could obtain from others more experienced than myself,—and in prosecuting my invention, you saw, for navigating our rivers. Of the former it is impossible for me to say too much—nay not enough—for nature is bountiful in her blessings—and Man is prodigal, if I may use the expression, of his exertions to enjoy them. Every thing thrives. It is a fact, that, in taking the testimonies to land claims in the Mississippi Territory, the common phrase is—“6 or 7 children” in a family—and so for multiplication throughout all the animal degrees. The republican principle, from all that I can hear, prevails in the territory, and the ensuing Election for this legislature, is expected, without doubt to be republican. Federalism has very little to say, indeed! and what it does say, seems to go for nothing! The improvements and the rising prospects of this country, since it has been exempt of despotic & fluctuating government—and espe cially since the acquisition of Louisiana, are astonishing beyond ex pression! Every man can now “do things in his own way”—and in security: and I have no doubt the board of Commissioners will leave the territory with scarcely a dispute behind them,—to which may be added the happy effect of their conciliatory manners. 83
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In digressing to my invention—instead of producing that puerile smile too common to silly ignorance and prejudice—I have, lately, additional reason to believe that Mr. Jefferson will not have cause to be ashamed to own that he once thought favorably of it. Good principles in Mechanics are capable of endless ramifications until we come at perfection—and a late instance of improvement, proves the fact. A Mr. Gideon Fitz, a young man in the Surveyor General’s office here,—and much to his credit said to be under the favor of Mr. Jefferson—and indeed Sir he is deserving it—has hit upon a Mean of working the horizontal motion of my paddles, that seems to do away the best idea which had occurred to me; and has the additional merit of being altogether new for anything I know of, and may be applied to other useful purposes. Mr. Fitz has also the advantage of calcu lations and of judgment sufficient to direct the works through to an experiment in the Mississippi—and for his applications to the busi ness, I shall take a pleasure in rewarding him fully. The Model we tried in the water, went with great facility—and encourages me to go on to a useful scale as fast as my duties of office will permit—but my public business, I must not, I will not neglect! Colonel Rodney has expressed an opinion that the board may be able to get through the business of the Commission by the month of April next. It may seem a long time—but indeed it is a laborious task. But the task is great! Justice is to be done to thousands—and the Citizens are to be left happy in their property. I am Sir—With every consideration—publicly, & privately—your most obedient, and faithful humble Servant R Claiborne RC (DLC); addressed: “Thos. Jefferson Esquire Washington”; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Aug. and so recorded in SJL.
From Jacob Crowninshield Sir. Salem 14th. July 1804.— Agreeably to my promise just before I left Washington, I lately sent you the articles mentioned in the enclosed memorandum, which I procured about six weeks past immediately on the return of our fishing vessels from the Banks. It was some time before any good opportunity offered to forward them, and the vessel by which I was finally obliged to send them will proceed no further than Baltimore, the Captain however had my directions to transmit the packages to the nearest port leading to your seat in Virginia; where if I did not 84
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misunderstand you, it was your wish they might come in preference to Washington Permit me to embrace this occasion of assuring you that the repub lican principles are gaining ground in the Eastern States. The friends of your excellent Administration encrease daily. The general mea sures which have been pursued are considered wise and proper, and if calumny has spread her vile insinuations we may be certain that Federalism gains no new converts but on the contrary experience demonstrates her cause to be in a rapid decline. The success in New Hampshire was highly pleasing. I had anticipated a considerable change but I am free to confess our friends in that quarter have ex ceeded my expectations, indeed I think they have done wonders. In this State too I trust an advance has been made which holds out the prospect of sure victory. In our Legislature the opposing party hardly outvoted the republicans and on the question of a general ticket par ties stood almost equally balanced, and had not two or three members been necessarily absent the vote to District the State for the choice of Electors must have been carried, but even as it now stands I am not without great hopes of the Republican ticket prevailing in the State at large, at any rate I feel very confident our opponents will have nothing to boast of at the close of the Election in Massachusetts.— The conduct of the English Frigate Cambrian in impressing men within our own jurisdiction (thereby adding to her force while on neutral ground) is considered here as a very daring infringement of our rights, and all parties seem to hope that it will be properly noticed. It is bad enough to impress our seamen at sea, (and I hope we shall both live to see the time when free ships shall make free men as well as free goods,) but surely if the British public ships can thus go on, they might soon be hardy enough (as in Portugal) to send press gangs into our streets, and seize the Citizen as he passed to his daily occupa tion, at all events submission invites to new & aggravating insults, and rather than abandon rights we all deem sacred, I would sooner risk all consequences, however, I can not for a moment suppose that the Governmt of Great Britain will justify such an outrage, comitted too in the port of a friendly power and under circumstances which cer tainly reflect no credit on her Commanders. Great Britain has often allowed her armed vessels on the high seas to commit aggressions on the innocent commerce of neutrals, and even during the present war our vessels have not been exempt from unjust captures. Both the belligerant nations have violated our neutral, and just rights to a free trade. the English as it respects vessels bound to and from Martineco, and other places pretended to be blockaded, and 85
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the French in relation to those carrying on commerce with Hispan iola, and other Islands in that neighbourhood, and the latter in numer ous instances have been aided by the Spaniards, who have shamefully engaged in the plunder. their agents at St Jago de Cuba in particular have allowed more than forty sail of American prizes to be carried into a small port 5 or 6 miles from that city, where the officers and men have been turned adrift without a cent in their pockets their cargoes taken out and reshipped in other bottoms (without condemnation) their vessels taken from them, & left as food for worms, or disposed of in a clandestine and illegal manner, and all these unjustifiable transac tions have been fully known to the Governor of the Havana, an officer of the Spanh Crown, who could readily have arrested the progress of the evil at any moment he pleased. In many instances the privateers have no commissions, or carry those out of date, or others which have been forged. Sure I am, we should be responsible to Spain, if we suf fered her mercht vessels to be thus bro’t into our ports, by the priva teers of a nation not at war with her, especially if we afterwards per mitted the property to be wasted or sold in violation of all forms of law.—If the United States once commanded in East Florida (and I fondly anticipate the time when that territory will be ours) the Span iards in Cuba would be extremely cautious in giving us the least cause of uneasiness, and I presume we should hear little complaint of captures in that quarter.— I sincerely beg your pardon for these deviations from the real ob jects I had in view in sending this letter, which were simply to give you information of my having transmitted the articles referred to, and to assure you, as I now do, that I am with my ardent wishes for your health and happiness, your very Obliged and devoted servant Jacob Crowninshield PS. I take the liberty of transmitting to you, accompanying this com munication, an Oration pronounced here on the 4th inst by Joseph Story Esqe which I think you will consider as the work of a master, and you will oblige me by shewing it to my friends Mr. Randolph and Mr. Eppes to whom I beg my best respects may be presented.— RC (DLC); above postscript: “Honble. Thoms Jefferson President U States”; endorsed by TJ as received 20 July and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Joseph Story, An Oration, Pronounced at Salem, on the Fourth Day of July, 1804, in Commemoration of Our National Independence (Salem, Mass., 1804; Sowerby, No. 4685).
success in new hampshire: for the Republican success in the 1804 New Hampshire legislative election, see Vol. 43:1845n.
86
e n c l o s u r e
Memorandum on a Shipment of Halibut and Cod Memorandum 2 boxes. containing the dried parts of Halibut 2 Kegs. of Cod sounds & tongues, each seperate, and in pickle, only one has a few fins of the Halibut packed in it, no more of the last could be procured as the fishermen are not in the habit of curing it. It will be necessary to let the sounds & tongues remain in water at least a day before eating to take off the salt, but those not intended for immediate use should be kept in the pickle. If the dried halibut should contract mould on the outside, it may be rubed off, and if necessary the halibut may be smoked again. in this manner we keep it for a year together perfectly in good order, but in a warmer climate great attention should be paid to its’ preservation.— These articles were sent about a fortnight since by the Schooner Minerva Capt. Foster via Baltimore Salem 13th July 1804 MS (DLC).
From Henry Dearborn Sir War Department July 14th. 1804 I have the honor of proposing for your approbation the following persons for appointments in the Army of the United States viz Au gustus Chouteau, Charles Gratiot, and Louis Loramee to be Cadets in Artillery also Pascall Vincent Accept Sir the Assurances of my high respect and consideration H. D. FC (Lb in DNA: RG 107, LSP); in a clerk’s hand. For the appointments of Auguste Pierre Chouteau, Charles Gratiot, Jr., and Louis Lorimier, Jr., see Vol. 43:440, 442n. Like the other three appointees, Pascal Vincent Bouis was a scion of a
prominent upper Louisiana family. All four young men received commissions in the U.S. Army in 1806 (Donald Chaput, “The Early Missouri Graduates of West Point: Officers or Merchants?” Missouri Historical Review, 72 [1978], 26270; Heitman, Dictionary, 232, 300, 470, 641).
87
From Susannah Bolton Finch Honoured sir Washington July 14 1804 I hope my destress will plead an a apology for the liberty I have taken the person who house genl. Mason lived in four years Col Cabell five Col Tregg six genl Tregg six years in philedelphia and this place I have livd in a house of Mr Law this three years and a half he has taken and sold at vandue a valuable property for nothing and my daughter and my self to lay on the hard boards it would not have hap pend had I not1 engaged to find the gentlemen wood and the winter being so hard if you would be so kind as oblige me with a trifel till the Gent return it will ever be remembered with gratitude and respect as I am in real want nothing else could have induce me to taken such a liberty I am honrd sir with respect your most obdient humble serv Susannah B Finch RC (MHi); endorsed by TJ as received 15 July and so recorded in SJL. Susannah Bolton Finch arrived in Phil adelphia from England in 1793. She came in the company of actor William Finch, at least one son, and a number of perform ers who, like William Finch, had been re cruited for the city’s new theater. Her husband died in early 1796, but by then Finch had already opened up her home to “Genteel Boarding & Lodging.” Between October 1799 and January 1800, she mar ried and divorced a Richard Guy of Phil adelphia and by 1801 had moved her boardinghouse business to Washington near Capitol Hill. That year she oversaw a dozen congressional lodgers, including Samuel Cabell and brothers John and Abram Trigg, her former lodgers from Philadelphia. After Thomas Law sold the property she was leasing, her boarding house business appears to have ended, and her whereabouts after writing TJ are unknown. Her son, William Bolton Finch, rose from what the newspapers called a “humble station” to become master com mandant of the sloop of war Vincennes on a historic tour around the globe, 182630 (Perry M. Goldman and James S. Young,
The United States Congressional Directories 1789-1840 [New York, 1973], 34, 37, 389, 41; Park M’Farland, Jr., Marriage Records of Gloria Dei Church, “Old Swedes’,” Philadelphia; Compiled from the Original Records [Philadelphia, 1879], 233; Philadelphia General Advertiser, 13 Feb. 1792, 17 Feb. 1794; Philadelphia National Gazette, 2 Oct. 1793; Claypoole’s American Daily Advertiser, 16 Jan. 1796, 22 Jan. 1800; Philadelphia Gazette, 17 Nov. 1797; Amherst Farmers’ Cabinet, 15 May 1830; James L. Mooney, Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships [Wash ington, D.C., 1959], 3:525). genl. mason: Senator Stevens Thom son Mason, although congressional di rectories do not list him as lodging at the Finch boardinghouse. sold at vandue: Law auctioned off the Finch boardinghouse on 2 May 1804. In the public notice, he described it as a twostory brick home on B Street, “34 feet deep by 24 front, more or less” (Washington Federalist, 23 Apr.). till the gent return: that is, until her lodgers returned to Washington for the next session of Congress.
88
1 Preceding
three words repeated in MS.
To William Henry Harrison Dear Sir Washington July 14. 1804 I recieved in due time your letter on the division of the Louisiana territory into districts, and since that I have been able to collect very satisfactory information on the same subject as well from persons from that country as from good maps. on the whole [I find] [. . .] than to adopt the existing divisions, which are five in number and will require 5. Commandants of different grade. I would therefore recommend that in the Proclamation which you will issue in due time for establishing the divisions, you use the following definitions. ‘All that portion of Louisiana lying North of the river Missouri, shall constitute one district by the name of the district of St. Charles. All that portion which heretofore constituted the district of St. Louis shall be one district by the name of the district of St. Louis. All that portion which heretofore constituted the district of St. Genevieve shall be one district by the name of the district of St. Genevieve. All that portion which heretofore constituted the district of Cape Girardeau shall be one district by the name of the district of Cape Girardeau. All that portion which heretofore constituted the district of New Madrid, and that lying Westward & Southward thereof to 33.° of lati tude shall be one district by the name of the district of New Madrid. And all the residue of the said country shall be divided by lines running from due West from the Western termination of the present lines dividing the said districts, & each division thereof so formed shall be annexed to and make part of the district to which it is adjacent.’ We learn that the Southern boundary of St. Louis is Platine creek: of Ste Genevieve Apple creek of Cape Girardeau the bend above N. Madrid of New Madrid it was les pe tites prairies according to the latest information the districts contain inhabitants as follow whites blacks St. Charles 1219. 107 St. Louis 2519. 560 Ste. Genevieve 1978. 520. 89
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Cape Girardeau 416. ⎬⎫ 312 New Madrid 1173. ⎭ I am very sorry to have found lately that mr Gibson’s commission was omitted to be made out & forwarded. there never existed a doubt one moment about renewing it. it was kept back merely that it’s three years might have the longer to run. on the last day of March (being to leave town the next day) I sent a memorandum to the office to have the commission filled up. it was by some means overlooked, and I never knew till a few days ago that it was so. I immediately signed one, giv ing the date formerly directed, and there is no doubt of his being considered de jure as well as de facto, the Secretary for the intermedi ate space. Accept my friendly salutations & assurances of great respect and esteem. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); faint; at foot of first page: “Governr Harrison.” Notation in SJL: “Louisa. districts.”
your letter: Harrison to TJ, 12 May. found lately: Gallatin to TJ, 9 July.
To James Madison Th:J. to mr Madison. July 14. 04. The inclosed reclamations of Girod & Chote against the claims of Bapstropp to a monopoly of the Indian commerce supposed to be under the protection of the 3d article of the Louisiana convention, as well as some other claims to abusive grants, will probably force us to meet that question. the article has been worded with remarkeable caution on the part of our negociators. it is that the inhabitants shall be admitted as soon as possible, according to the principles of our constn, to the enjoyment of all the rights of citizens, and, in the mean time, en attendant, shall be maintained in their liberty, property & religion. that is that they shall continue under the protection of the treaty, until the principles of our constitution can be extended to them, when the protection of the treaty is to cease, and that of our own principles to take it’s place. but as this could not be done at once, it has been provided to be as soon as our rules will admit. accordingly Congress has begun by extending about 20. particular laws by their titles, to Louisiana. among these is the act concerning intercourse with the Indians, which establishes a system of commerce with them, ad mitting no monopoly. that class of rights therefore are now taken from under the treaty & placed under the principles of our laws. I imagine 90
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it will be necessary to express an opinion to Govr Claiborne on this subject, after you shall have made up one. affectte. salutations Th: Jefferson RC (DNA: RG 59, MLR); endorsed by Jacob Wagner with notation “Bastrop’s monopoly.” PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “monopolies Orleans.” Enclosure: J. F. Girod & Chol to TJ, 10 June 1804.
Section 7 of the 26 Mch. act for divid ing Louisiana and providing for its tem porary government extended 21 laws of the United States to Orleans Territory (U.S. Statutes at Large, 2:285).
To Thomas Munroe Sir Washington July 14. 04 In answer to your letter covering mr Davidson’s on the subject of the claim he sets up to certain grounds near the President’s house, I did recieve an early application from him on the subject as he states, but it was very long before I got all the materials which were neces sary to enable me to make up a satisfactory judgment on that & the many other questions respecting the city which had accumulated. in Oct. 1803. I took up the cases, and gave to them all the time and consideration which their difficulty required, and communicated the result to you. I do not recollect however whether I gave you a copy or only the reading of it. With respect to mr Davidson’s case, I found that Genl. Washing ton had decided it in his letter of Feb. 20. 97. wherein as to the matter of right he is clear & decisive against the claim and as to the question of indulgence he leaves it to the commissioners who would not agree to give it. on a full view of all the circumstances & documents respect ing the case I thought Genl. Washington’s decision perfectly just. and I think mr Davidson’s error proceeds entirely from his consider ing L’Enfant’s draught as the final plan, whereas it was only the first proposition prepared for; & subject to, future modifications. the Plan & declaration of 1797. were final so far as they went: but even they left many parts unfinished, some of which remain still to be declared. the sale in Oct. 91. of a few lots would certainly fix so much of the plan as respected those lots, but no farther. none of these touched the President’s square and consequently could not fix that. mr Davidson’s own agreement with the Commissioners provides that if any building squares, other than 167. & 221., should afterwards be established on his part of the President’s square (the limits of which are there dis tinctly specified, as declared in 1797) he should have his dividend of 91
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them. this is a solemn admission under his own hand in Oct. 92. that none were then established. I state these only as my reasons for con curring with Genl. Washington in his decision of Feb. 97. a copy of which I will pray you to send to mr Davidson. accept my best respects. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Mr. Mun roe”; endorsed by TJ with notation “Da vison’s case” and so recorded in SJL. your letter: Munroe to TJ, 13 July.
early application: Vol. 34:6478; Vol. 35:478. For TJ’s analysis of the questions respecting the city, in cluding Samuel Davidson’s claim, see Vol. 41:51423.
To Thomas Munroe Dear Sir Washington July 14. 04. If you will be so good as to make particular & diligent enquiry as to the riotous workmen, and to designate those who were active and insolent on the late occasion, & therefore most proper to be excluded from the public yards, I shall be willing that the residue be recieved again. it will be necessary that you report the list to me that I may communicate it to the other public works. friendly salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Mr. Mun roe”; endorsed by TJ with notation “riot ers” and so recorded in SJL.
i shall be willing: see Munroe to TJ, 12 July.
From Thomas Munroe 14. July 1804
T Munroe presents his most respectful Compliments to the Presi dent, and thinks it necessary to apologize or assign as an excuse for troubling him about Mr Davidsons letter of yesterday to state that, altho’ he, TM, well recollects having recd. for perusal a writing con taining the Result of the Presidents consideration of sundry cases relative to the plan of the City, which embraced Mr. D.s. case, yet he did not consider himself at liberty to say any thing on the subject to Mr. D, or any other person; as TM had been directed by the Presi dent1 to return that writing after perusal and not to communicate its contents till it had received the further consideration of the President; when TM was to receive any further directions that might be deemed necessary—. T.M. had no copy, and returned the original as directed, 92
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but recollects the decision in Mr. Ds. case was precisely as repeated in the Presidents letter of to day— 1 Preceding
RC (DLC); addressed: “President”; endorsed by TJ as received 14 July and “Davidson” and so recorded in SJL.
three words interlined.
From Thomas Munroe Sir, 14. July 1804 I find on a diligent and particular enquiry of the Overseer & others who saw the riotous workmen parading the streets, and heard a good deal of what was said amongst them that Matthias Kyne (or Kyan) Charles Dent, mark Fahey, Thomas Bean John King, & Thomas Crowley, then in the public works, and Brian Larner & one or two others, whose names are not known, and who were not employed by the public, were the persons who excited the late disorderly behavior, and were most active and insolent on the occasion; and several of those who have been dismissed in consequence of the riot declare that had it not been for Kyan they believe it would not have taken place, but that Dent & Fahey pretty readily joined him, and, with Brian Larner, threatened & abused those who refused, or were backward until they agreed to “turn out” as they term it.— I Have the Honor to be with the greatest respect Sir Yr mo Ob Servt. Thomas Munroe Timothy King the man mentioned in Mr Gallatins note was said, at first, to be a principal, but I suspect it was a mistake—I have known him 5 or 6 years and always thought him a well disposed poor igno rant inoffensive creature.— RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 14 July and “rioters” and so recorded in SJL. enquiry: see TJ to Munroe, 14 July (second letter). mr gallatins note: Timothy King’s wife furnished butter for the Gallatins. After the firings, King, an Irishman who did not speak English, sent his child to Gallatin “with a long story” and a request
for help in getting King reinstated. Ac cording to the child, King was at labor on the avenue when “other workmen com pelled him to leave work threatening to break his cart” if he did not comply. Gal latin professed to Munroe in this 10 July note: “Of the facts I know nothing, but relate the story so far as I could, from the child’s relation, understand it” (DLC: TJ Papers, District of Columbia Miscellany).
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To Thomas Munroe Th: Jefferson to mr Munroe. July 15. 04. I have this day made a tolerably exact estimate of the digging al ready done at the President’s house, & that which remains to be done, for the head1 drains from each end of the house, and the main sewer.
C D C D [D] there is done 1000. cub. yards. carrying digging at [18] = 180. away @ [39]½ = 3[. . .] = 4[. . .] yet to be done 900. [162]. 2[. . .] = 4[. . .] 1900. [342]. 5[. . .] = 8[. . .]
you will judge whether it will be best to go on with the digging & loading 2 in the present way or to hire it by the Cubic yard. the haul ing I presume can only be done by day work. PrC (DLC); blurred; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso with notation “digging &c.” and so recorded in SJL.
1 Word
interlined. word and ampersand inter
2 Preceding
lined.
From Robert Smith Sir, Balt. July 15. 1804 The appointment solicited in the enclosed can with propriety be made. His first employment will be in one of the gun Boats. To me as to you it appears really surprising that so many applications for ap pointments in the Navy are received from Virginia and Maryland. But the Eastern States have no cause of complaint. All applications from that quarter have been duly respected by us. And if they have not been as numerous as from some of the other States no blame can on that score attach to us. The fact is that I have frequently expressed my surprise to the Eastern Members of Congress that the young men of their Country had not at this time more zeal for the Service. I am happy that the Osages have arrived, and I am greatly pleased with the idea of giving them a view of the strength and resources of our Country. Most sincerely do I hope that you will be able to leave Washington soon. Your health is in danger every day you remain there. And Sir, allow me to say to you, that you owe it to your political friends as well as to yourself to take especial care of your Constitu tion. With the warmest affection and the highest Esteem I am Sir, Obedt. Servt Rt Smith 94
1 6 J U LY 1 8 0 4 RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Presi dent”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 16 July and so recorded in SJL; also endorsed by TJ:
“mr Callis. midshipman.” Enclosure: Wil liam O. Callis to TJ, 2 July 1804. as to you: see TJ to Smith, 13 July.
From Richard Cutts Dear Sir Pepperrellboro. July 16th. 1804 Your favr. of the 20th Inst. did not come to hand whilst I was in Boston, I regret the circumstance as it would have given me great satisfaction to have personally attended to the business, & prevented so much delay—Immediately after receiving your Letter—I wrote to my Agents in Boston, who informed me it was against the rules of the Institution to suffer sheet Glass with the Bull’s eye to be delivered from the Manufactory, but that it could be done from the Glass House in the Country—I have this day received for answer, “that they can make a sheet from 4 to 4½ feet diameter, that the price will be about 5 Dollars sheet—I have ordered tow sheets (if possible of a larger size) to be packed & shipped agreeable to your directions. It will be quite as convenient to receive the pay on my return to the City—I hope the delay attending the exicution of this little commission, will not prevent your calling again, whenever occasion requires— Mrs. Cutts joins me in presenting our best regards for your health & happiness— I am Sir, with respect & esteem your Humbl Sert. Richd Cutts RC (MHi); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the US.”; endorsed by TJ as received 22 July and so recorded in SJL.
To Dog Soldier My son the Dogsouldier 2d chief of the Little Osages July 16. 1804. You have heard the words which I have this day spoken1 to your great chief White hairs. they are meant for you and your people also. I consider his towns and your towns as forming one nation, and shall bear equal friendship to both. but in whatever concerns your towns separately we shall always treat them separately according to your desire. 95
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yourself 2
As to personally we shall always consider you as our friend, and entitled to be distinguished by us, as your own people dis tinguish you. the medal which we have given you will testify to your people and to all others the esteem we bear you, and the confidence we repose in you. Th: Jefferson RC (CSmH). PoC (DLC); salutation, signature, and date added separately to RC and PoC. Tr (DLC); in French, en tirely in TJ’s hand. FC (Lb in DNA: RG 75, LSIA); in a clerk’s hand; undated, but follows Dearborn to the Osages, 18 July.
have this day spoken: see TJ to White Hair and Others, 16 July. In each case, TJ’s French text of his address was probably for reading aloud at his meeting with the Osage leaders. 1 2
Tr: “que je viens de parler.” Tr: “Quant a vous, mon fils.”
From Victor Marie du Pont & Co. Most Respected Sir New York 16 July 1804 We were on the 14th Inst. favored with yours of the 10th. covering a remittance of two hundred & fifty Dollars in a post Note on the Branch Bank of this City—Agreablie to your wishes we have now the honor to enclose you our draft at 60 days sight on Mess du Pont de Nemours Pere fils & Co of Paris for Thirteen hundred & twelve − ₁⁵− ₀⁰₀ − Francs, being the full amount of your remittance at the Exchange of 5− ₁²− ₀⁵₀ − Dollar— Permit us to return you our acknowledgements for the favor you confer on us by giving us an opportunity of being servisable to you— and accept the assurance of the high respect with which we have the honor to be Your Most obt. Servants— V. du Pont de Nemours & Coy. RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by du Pont; at foot of text: “His Excel lency Thomas Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 19 July and so recorded in SJL with notation “1312½ Francs.” Enclosure: bill of exchange, 14 July, for
1312½ francs to Stephen Cathalan, Jr., at 60 days’ sight (Quadruplicate in MHi; printed form with blanks filled, signed for the firm by du Pont; see TJ to Cathalan, 11, 20 July).
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From John Wayles Eppes Dear Sir, Eppington July 16. 1804. Since my last in looking over my papers, I have met with your let ter in answer to the proposition made by me on a former occasion of exchanging the Bedford Land for Land adjoining PantOps. If I had perfectly recollected that letter I should certainly not have renewed the application as the same reasons continue probably to operate on your mind—It is unnecessary to assure you I hope that no selfish motive caused a renewal of the proposition and that its rejection can excite in my bosom no sentiments not perfectly in unison with the feelings of an affectionate friend— My little girl has recovered entirely is very fat and becoming an interesting little plaything—Francis’s health (since the attack I men tioned to you immediately after our arrival here) has been rather delicate—His bowels have at intervals been considerably disordered and he is labouring at present under a slight complaint of that kind—As soon as I hear of your being at Monticello I shall bring him up—My mother has not as yet determined on the time of carrying up the little girl it will probably however not be until the latter end of August— I have lately met with a Horse that I think will suit you very well— He is a fine Bay four years old very gentle in a Gig and a tolerable riding Horse—He is not quite as fine a formed horse as mine but except being much stouter would answer well with him in Harness, being of the same colour and having the same marks—He would make a noble Horse to drive in your single Phaeton—The Gentleman asks for him 250 dollars & if you chose it you may have mine for 300 dollars more—I have often refused this price for mine and would not on any account part with him but that Francis will in future in all my journies be my companion and I propose keeping a pair only of coarse strong Horses and a light Coachee or Waggon— I have this day sent off Martin with your Jenny—I am sorry she has not been sent up sooner but Martins trip with Patsy put it out of my power to send her until this late period— Before leaving Monticello your Servant John applied to me for Me linda for a wife. In consequence I suppose of this expected connection she became discontented here and I sent her up with Mrs. Randolph. As it was neither for her interest or mine that she should be in idle ness I have directed her to be hired in Charlottesville or Milton with a stipulation that she is only to be employed as a House Servant—If 97
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you are disposed to indulge John with having his wife near him you can take Melinda in exchange for any thing else of the same value. accept for your health my warm wishes—affectionately Yours Jno: W: Eppes RC (ViU: EdgehillRandolph Papers); endorsed by TJ. Recorded in SJL as re ceived 2 Aug. my last: Eppes to TJ, 14 June. For the proposition concerning land, see Vol. 37:448. martin: one of TJ’s slaves who had been transferred to John Wayles Eppes and Mary Jefferson Eppes on their mar riage (Vol. 33:6412n). Through Francis Eppes, TJ purchased a female donkey, or jenny, “of the Malta breed” from Mary Jefferson Bolling in late 1791. Maltese donkeys were valued sources of breeding, and TJ encouraged Eppes to locate a male (“jack”) of pure stock for that purpose. In December 1792,
Eppes proposed to breed the jenny with a jack descended from Royal Gift, a prized Spanish donkey given to George Wash ington by Charles III of Spain in 1785, and a jenny owned by Philip Mazzei. Such breeding patterns eventually led to the development of the American Standard Donkey, as well as producing the mules that powered agricultural work across the American South (Washington, Papers, Confed. Ser., 3:2969; Watson C. Arnold, “The Mule: The Worker That ‘Can’t Get No Respect,’ ” Southwestern Historical Quarterly, 112 [2008], 378; mb, 2:839; Vol. 7:566; Vol. 22:226, 293; Vol. 24:706, 757). john applied to me: see John Free man to TJ, [18 Apr. 1804].
To White Hair and Others My children. Whitehairs, Chiefs & Warriors of the Osage nation. July 16. 04 I repeat to you assurances of the satisfaction it has given me to re cieve you here. besides the labour of such a journey, the confidence you have shewn in the honor & friendship of my countrymen is pecu liarly gratifying and I hope you have seen that your confidence was justly placed, that you have found yourselves, since you crossed the Missisipi,1 among brothers & friends, with whom you were as safe as at home. My children. I sincerely weep with you over the graves of your chiefs & friends, who fell by the hands of their enemies lately descend ing the Osage river. had they been prisoners, & living, we would have recovered them: but no voice can awake the dead; no power undo what is done. on this side the Missisipi where our government has been long established, and our authority organised our friends visit ing us are safe. we hope it will not be long before our voice will be heard and our arm respected, by those who meditate to injure our friends, on the other side of that river. in the mean time Governor Harrison will be directed to take proper measures to enquire into the 98
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circumstances of the transaction,2 to report them to us for consider ation, and for the further measures they may require. My children. By late arrangements with France & Spain, we now take their place as your neighbors, friends and fathers: and we hope you will have no cause to regret the change. it is so long since our forefathers came from beyond the great water, that we have lost the memory of it, and seem to have grown out of this land, as you have done. never more will you have occasion to change your fathers. we are all now of one family, born in the same land, & bound to live as brothers; & the strangers from beyond the great water are gone from among us. the great Spirit has given you strength, and has given us strength; not that we might hurt one another, but to do each other all the good in our power. our dwellings indeed are very far apart; but not too far to carry on commerce & useful intercourse. you have furs and peltries which we want, and we have clothes and other useful things which you want. let us employ ourselves then in mutually ac comodating each other. to begin this on our part it was necessary to know what nations inhabited the great country called Louisiana, which embraces all the water of the Missisipi and Missouri, what number of peltries they could furnish, what quantities & kinds of merchandize they would require, where would be the deposits most convenient for them, and to make an exact map of all those waters. for this purpose I sent a beloved man, Capt Lewis, one of my own houshold3 to learn something of the people with whom we are now united, to let you know we were your friends, to invite you to come and see us, and to tell us how we can be useful to you. I thank you for the readiness with which you have listened to his voice, and for the favor you shewed him in his passage up the Missouri. I hope your countrymen will favor and protect him as far as they extend. on his return we shall hear what he has seen & learnt, & proceed to establish trading houses where our red brethren shall think best, & to exchange commodities with them on terms with which they will be satisfied. With the same views I had prepared another party to go up the Red river to it’s source, thence to the source of the Arkansa, & down it to it’s mouth. but I will now give orders that they shall only go a small distance up the red river this season, and return to tell us what they have seen, and that they shall not set out for the head of that river till the ensuing spring, when you will be at home, and will I hope guide and guard them in their journey. I also propose the next year to send another small party up the river of the Kansas to it’s source, thence to the head of the river of the Panis, and down to it’s mouth; and others up the rivers on the North side of the Missouri. for guides 99
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along these rivers we must make arrangements with the nations in habiting them. My children. I was sorry to learn that a schism had taken place in your nation,4 and that a part of your people had withdrawn with the Greattrack, to the Arkansa river. we will send an Agent to them and will use our best offices to prevail on them to return, and to live in union with you. we wish to make them also our friends, and to make that friendship, and the weight it may give us with them, useful to you and them. We propose, my children, immediately to establish an Agent to reside with you, who will speak to you our words, and convey yours to us: who will be the guardian of our peace and friendship, convey truths from the one to the other, dissipate all falsehoods which might tend to alienate and divide us, and maintain a good understanding & friendship between us. as the distance is too great for you to come often and tell us your wants, you will tell them to him on the spot, and he will convey them to us in writing, so that we shall be sure that they come from you. through the intervention of such an Agent we shall hope that our friendship will forever be preserved. no wrong will ever be done you by our nation, and we trust that yours will do none to us: and should ungovernable individuals commit unauthorised out rage on either side, let them be duly punished; or if they escape, let us make to each other the best satisfaction the case admits, and not let our peace be broken by bad men. for all people have some bad men among them whom no laws can restrain. As you have taken so long a journey to see your fathers, we wish you not to return till you shall have visited our country & towns to wards the sea coast. this will be new and satisfactory to you, and it will give you the same knowledge of the country on this side the Mis sisipi, which we are endeavoring to acquire of that on the other side, by sending trusty persons to explore them. we propose to do in your country only what we are desirous you should do in ours. we will pro vide accomodations for your journey, for your comfort while engaged in it, and for your return in safety to your own country, carrying with you those proofs of esteem with which we distinguish our friends, and shall particularly distinguish you. on your return tell your people that I take them all by the hand, that I become their father hereafter, that they shall know our nation only as friends and benefactors; that we have no views upon them but to carry on a commerce useful to them and us; to keep them in peace with their neighbors, that their children may multiply, may grow up & live to a good old age, and their women no longer fear the tomahawk5 of any enemy. 100
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My children. These are my words. carry them to your nation.6 keep them in your memories, and our friendship in your hearts. and may the Great Spirit look down upon us, & cover us with the mantle of his love. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC). Tr (DLC); in French, en tirely in TJ’s hand (see note to TJ to Dog Soldier, 16 July). FC (Lb in DNA: RG 75, LSIA); in a clerk’s hand; undated but follows Dearborn to the Osages, 18 July. Cashesegra, or greattrack (in French, Grand Piste), was a leader of the Arkan sas band of Osages (Rollings, The Osage, 1989).
1 Tr:
“dans la route.” “est chargé de faire des perquisi tions des sauvages qui ont commis ce forfait.” 3 Tr: “un de ma propre famille.” 4 Preceding clause lacking in Tr. 5 Tr: “le cassetete.” 6 Sentence lacking in Tr. 2 Tr:
Notes on Reply of White Hair July 16. 04. Whitehairs replies. very content with speech will do every thing to satisfy long since he wished to have a great chief he is glad to see him he will go home as soon as we are ready. wishes some goods could go this year. I have long since1 be sold as negroes are sold. I hope that is done, and that we shall not have at all times petty Frenchmen coming to our villages to give bad counsel. MS (DLC); entirely in TJ’s hand.
1
MS: “sine.”
To William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir Washington July 17. 04. After sending off my letter of the 7th. inst. I found I had omitted to give you some explanations which it is proper you should recieve on the subject of the letter of your’s communicated by me to Congress, which got into the newspapers in a falsified shape. the two houses had under deliberation some subject, at the time I recieved that letter, on which I knew the contents of that letter would set them to rights, & prevent an improper decision. there was not time to copy. I there fore carefully sealed papers over every passage the publication of which could do you injury. in that form my Secretary delivered the original to the President of the Senate, stood at the bar till he read it to the house, stepped to him & recieved it instantly from his hand, carried it 101
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to the Representatives, stood till the Speaker had read it to the house, then recieved it from him & brought it back to me. so that even the Speaker & President did not see the passages which I had covered, nor did any other mortal cast an eye on any part of it. some member, by memory only, must have put into the papers the forgery which appeared in them: I say some member, because the letter was read with closed doors. it is possible that more than one may have clubbed memories & malice to make what they did of it. this for your tranquil ity, & my justification. A friend of mine desired me to recommend a Dr. Scott to you; as I do not furnish letters of recommendation, I promised to name him in some letter to you. I do not know him personally; but my friend would not recommend an unworthy character to me. How would it answer to locate the ground you mention on the Canal of Carondelet for Fayette, to lay it off into town lots on the plan of the chequer board communicated in my former letter, and to sell out the building lots to raise him a present supply of money? could it be added to the town & what would the lots sell for? I enclose you a letter for the Nuns of St. Ursula, which be pleased to read, seal & deliver. Affec tionate salutations Th: Jefferson Tr in Jefferson Papers editorial office from RC (Frederick M. Dearborn, New York, 1949); at foot of text: “Govr. Clai borne.” Notation in SJL: “his lre. Scott.” Enclosure: TJ to the Ursuline Nuns of New Orleans, [13 July]. letter of your’s communicated by me to congress: see TJ to the Sen ate and the House of Representatives, 24 Jan. 1804, enclosing Claiborne’s letter to Madison of 2 Jan. asserting that the in habitants of Louisiana were not yet ready for selfgovernment. Summaries appeared
in several Federalist newspapers in late February, including the New-York Evening Post on 20 Feb. and Boston Columbian Centinel on 25 Feb., and were sub sequently forwarded to New Orleans in “great numbers.” Writing to Madison on 14 Apr., Claiborne admitted the letter occasioned “much talk” for a day or two, but he assured the secretary of state that it had “not in the least affected my popu larity in Louisiana” (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:478). a friend of mine: John Strode (see James Scott to TJ, 26 Apr. 1804).
From Alexander J. Dallas Sir, Philadelphia 17 July 1804. A suit is depending in one of our Courts, between the Executors of George Croghan, and the Executors of Benjamin Hammet, in which it will, probably, be necessary, on the part of the Plaintiffs, to pro duce, or account for the loss of, certain Bills of Lading, for a quantity of silver, which Col. Croghan sent from America, to Mr. Hammet in 102
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England, in the year 1767. Samuel Wharton (formerly a Judge in Pennsylvania) states in a Deposition, of the 15h. of October 1785, that “when he embarked from France for Philadelphia (during the Revo lutionary war) he deposited a Chest; in which those Bills were packed, with Benjamin Franklin Esqr., who has since arrived in Philadelphia, and who, as the Deponent was informed, had left the Chest under the care of Mr. Jefferson.” As this Deposition suggests the only chance of my Clients being able to trace the Bills of Lading, permit me to take the liberty of ask ing, whether you have any reccollection of the fact, mentioned by Mr. Wharton? I have the honor to be, with the highest respect and the sincerest attachment, Sir, Yr. mo. Hble Servt A. J. Dallas RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 20 July and so recorded in SJL. a suit: following George Croghan’s 1782 death, his estate became the subject
of numerous lawsuits, which lasted into the nineteenth century (Nicholas B. Wain wright, George Croghan: Wilderness Diplomat [Chapel Hill, 1959], 3102).
To William Dunbar Dear Sir Washington July 17. 04. Your letter of June 1. to myself as well as that to the Secretary at War was recieved here the 12th. inst. in addition1 to the information contained in this last2 on the subject of our mission for exploring the Red & Arkansa rivers, is some of importance collected here. Capt. Choteau and 12 chiefs of the Osage nation are here at this time. among these is the Great chief of the whole nation. Capt Lewis’s conferences with them, their visit, and what has passed here, have I believe fixt their friendship permanently. they will go from hence to Baltimore, Philadelphia & New York, and will then return home, where they will probably be in the course of November. I mentioned to the Chief this mission. it seems there is a schism in their nation; about 400. warriors of it and their families under the direction [of] a chief called the Great track, having drawn off about two years ago to the Arkansa river. these will undoubtedly oppose the passage of our party and per haps do worse. White hairs (the great chief) therefore earnestly de sires this mission to be suspended. he has sollicited our mediation to heal this schism. we accordingly shall engage Capt. Choteau (who is to be our agent with the Osages) to go to the seceders in the winter or spring, to establish a good understanding with them on our part, 103
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and prevail on them to rejoin their nation. he will engage their con sent to our mission and to furnish guides for the whole course of it. in the mean while we shall be able to remove Spanish impediments. on the whole therefore we conclude to suspend this expedition till the spring. but as you had proposed to go yourself some distance up the Red river, it is very desireable that you should make use of any part of the men or matters provided for the expedition, and go to what distance, and in what direction you please, return when you please, but in time to report to us the result of your researches, which report will probably induce Congress to enlarge the appropriation, and in the spring the party may start under better prospects. this delay gives us an opportunity too of appointing a person fully qualified to head the expedition. should this find you at home, & the party departed, you will be so good as to send after them any orders you think best, either to return, immediately, or from such point in their course as will en able them to get back to winter at Natchez, and report their progress in time for the consideration of Congress. should you be gone from Natchez with the party, I shall desire mr West to send this after you by express. Accept my friendly salutations and assurances of great esteem & respect Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of first page: “Wil liam Dunbar esq.”; one word faint. Dupl (same); in a clerk’s hand, signed by TJ and with his notation at head of text: “Du plicate.” Enclosed in TJ to Cato West, 17 July. The war department recorded receiv ing on 12 July a letter of 9 June from Dunbar related to the proposed expedition “to explore upper Louisiana.” Dunbar saved a letter of that day among his drafts, although he recorded it as intended for TJ. In his draft, Dunbar discussed how Spanish policies and the potential hos tility of Indians, particularly the Osages, might impact an expedition along the Red and Arkansas Rivers (DNA: RG 107, RLRMS; Lb in MsAr: William Dunbar Papers). what has passed here: in addition to their audiences with the president, the Osage delegation visited the Washing ton Navy Yard, where they viewed sev eral frigates. A discharge of guns saluted them, as flags and signals “were hoisted in a moment, but without exciting in them the least emotion, except an expression of
satisfaction at this mark of distinction.” On the evening of the 17th, several Osages performed what was described as a war dance before a large crowd that included TJ and members of the cabinet. An ac count in the Washington Federalist de scribed the “exhibition of naked Savages” and indicated that the president, “his red brother” White Hair, “and the Court La dies occupied an elevated situation pre pared for them, so as to ‘command a bet ter view of the whole ground.’ ” The Federalist reporter added that the “Mam moth Toad,” that is, the horned lizard sent by Lewis and Clark and brought to TJ by the delegation, “with his seven horns & buffalo head, was not present” (Norwich Courier, 1 Aug.; Washington Federalist, 23 July; Vol. 43:451, 453n). For the 17 July appointment of Pierre Chouteau as U.S. agent for Indian affairs in upper Louisiana and Dearborn’s instruc tions to him, see Terr. Papers, 13:313. 1 Preceding
two words interlined. two words interlined in place of “that.” 2 Preceding
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To Martha Jefferson Randolph Washington July 17. 04.
It is a considerrible time, my very dear Martha, since I have writ ten because I have been in expectation you were all at Eppington: and tho’ I have not heard of your return to Edgehill, I presume it has taken place. I have some hope of being able to leave this on the 23d. & to be with you on the 26th. but it is possible I may not be able to get thro’ my business. mr Gallatin & Smith are gone. General Dear borne & mr Madison will go in three or four days. M. & Made. Pi chon, who have lately lost their child, are inconsoleable; and will pass the remainder of the season in travelling about. they will pass some time with mr Madison & us. I have written to my sister Marks to press a visit from her and that I would send for her on my arrival. I hope the little ones are all well, and that you have left the family at Eppington, & particularly our dear portion of it well, and in the in tention of visiting us. the necessaries for our comfort at Monticello have been sent off long ago at two or three different times. kiss the dear children for me, and present me affectionately to mr Randolph. my impatience to be with you all increases more as I approach the moment of that happiness. God bless you my ever dear child, and permit me to find you in good health. a tender Adieu till I see you. Th: Jefferson P.S. I presume mr Randolph’s newspapers will inform him of the death of Colo. Hamilton, which took place on the 12th. RC (NNPM); at foot of text: “Mrs. Randolph.” PoC (MHi); endorsed by TJ. have written: a letter of 13 July from TJ to his sister Anna Scott Jefferson Marks is recorded in SJL, but has not
been found. A letter to Marks recorded under 3 Aug. has also not been found. Alexander hamilton died the day fol lowing his duel with Aaron Burr (NewYork Evening Post, 13 July 1804).
To Cato West Sir Washington July 17. 04. Should mr Dunbar be at Natchez I will ask the favor of you to de liver him the inclosed: but the possibility that he may be departed for and up the Red river induces me to inclose it to you with a request that in that case you will be so good as to send it after him express, until he be overtaken: the expence of which will be properly defrayed 105
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out of the fund under mr Dunbar’s direction. Accept my salutations and assurances of great respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (MoSHi: Jefferson Papers); at foot of text: “Cato West esq.”; endorsed by TJ. Enclosure: TJ to William Dunbar, 17 July.
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir New York 18th July 1804 I received yesterday your letter of the 12th instt., and have written an answer to Mr Hoffman. It is unnecessary to write to our officers not to disturb them as they have nothing to do with intruders: what advice to give was rather embarrassing; you will receive from the Treasury office a copy of what I wrote. I have no answer from Dickerson, but will receive one in a couple of days. In examining the act I find that the attorney for the United States is only attorney for the district & not for the territory; his busi ness as well as the Marshal’s will be only with the district court; and the Governor will appoint a Sheriff or officer of similar nature as well as an attorney general for the supreme territorial court. That consid eration diminishes considerably the importance of the two offices; but I presume that it was not intended, and it may easily be rectified by Congress at their next session. The superior court of the territory must commence their session on the first monday in October and the session of the district court com mences on the third monday of the same month. Reserving one place for Pinkney, which on his probable refusal may be given to the other person you have in view (Williams I believe) would it not be well to commission before you go Kirby & Prevost for the territorial & Hall for the district court, in order that they may make the necessary ar rangements & be on the spot on the day; for they must be there within little more than two months from this date, & the passage will take one month. They should at some time be advised that their salary commences only on 1st. October. There will be an advantage in keeping Williams to fill Pinkney’s place, which is that if he was appointed immediately, we must have another commissioner on the Natchez landclaims. Will there be no incompatibility between that last mentioned office and that of Gover nor of the Mississippi territory as it respects Mr Rodney? perhaps no more than arises from his present situation as judge. And if Pinkney should accept the N. Orleans judgeship, Williams might be provided for in a temporary way by being made Mr Rodney’s successor as judge. 106
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Excuse all these crude ideas which I submit only from a knowlege of the embarrassment caused by the appointments in that place. With great respect & attachment Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin I say nothing of the event which has taken place in this city. You will have perceived that to the natural sympathy & sincere regret excited by Mr Hamilton’s death, much artificial feeling or semblance of feel ing has been added by the combined federal and anti Burrite party spirits. RC (DLC); above postscript: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury De partment on 20 July and “Dickerson. Hoffman. commissions for Orleans” and so recorded in SJL. In his 18 July answer to Peter Hoff man and the memorial of Johann Georg Rapp, Gallatin explained that alterations to the terms fixed by law for purchasing public lands could only be obtained from Congress. To increase the likelihood of re ceiving such an indulgence, Gallatin sug gested that Rapp and his associates apply for “a large contiguous body of land,” which would be considerably cheaper per acre than an individual quarter section. Gallatin stated that he found it difficult to advise Rapp and his followers without further knowledge of their abilities and resources, nor did he wish to encourage
hopes that might be disappointed. If, how ever, they wished to settle immediately on public lands in Ohio, Gallatin suggested that they purchase and settle on the most valuable sections of the tract they meant to acquire, but warned that adjacent sec tions could have already been taken up by others (Tr in DLC). Writing from London on 5 May, Wil liam pinkney informed Madison that his work to settle the Maryland bank stock claim was nearing completion and that he intended to return to the United States during the “present Season” if he could secure a suitable conveyance for himself and his family (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:1604; Vol. 40:3779; Vol. 41:1523). Hamilton’s violent demise prompted much sympathy, even among the city’s Republican newspapers (New York American Citizen, 14 July).
From Ebenezer Hoppe Sir, London, 18th. July, 1804. Being confidently persuaded that you will not treat with indifference any thing which tends to the improvement of that branch of science on which depends the safety of Mariners and the facilities of Naviga tion, I have taken the liberty, although a stranger, and on the Eastern side of the Atlantic, of transmitting to you a few copies of the inclosed little pamphlet, descriptive of some material alterations in the con struction of the nautical Sextant and of the Mariners Compass. By means of the new alterations of, or rather additions to, the Sex tant, it is presumed that this valuable Instrument will be found more particularly adapted than heretofore to the purposes both of Land and 107
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of Maritime Surveying, as well as to the practice of making celestial observations at Sea, in which it particularly facilitates, in a great de gree, the true determination of the longitude; and it will, I presume, be found especially useful in such ships as may happen to have but one or two persons on board capable of making the requisite observations.— You will perceive, also, that the pamphlet contains an Explanation of several improvements in the construction of the Azimuth Compass, which render that Instrument considerably more accurate than any other heretofore constructed, and of which, it is trusted, that your Excellency will approve. I trust, Sir, that you will excuse the liberty which I have taken in transmitting these pamphlets to you.—But, from the local circum stances of the extensive Country over which you so happily preside,— from its increasing commerce and prosperity under your auspices,—I cannot but suppose that these Instruments would be equally accept able in the United States as in Europe.—I beg leave to state that they have already been honoured with the approbation of the Naval Boards here, and of the Corporation of Trinity House, together with the flattering testimony in their favour of some of our most distinguished Naval Characters, as Sir Sidney Smith, Sir Home Popham, Mendoza de Rios Esqr. F.R.S. of the Royal Navy of Spain, and many other gentlemen particularly eminent for their nautical and Scientific knowl edge; and should I, Sir, in addition to these, have the high honour of the approbation and sanction of your Excellency, I shall deem myself amply compensated for the attention and expense which has been bestowed on the subject. With the highest respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your Excel lency’s most obedt. Servt. Eb Hoppe RC (DLC); addressed: “His Excellency Thos. Jefferson, President of the United States, &c. &c.” and “Pr favour Capn. Collett”; endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Ebenezer Hoppe, An Explanation of E. Hoppe’s Improved Sextant (London, 1804). Optician Ebenezer Hoppe advertised as a mathematical instrument maker at 51
Church Street, Minories, London. He also sent his pamphlet to Thomas Truxtun (see Truxtun to TJ, 25 Sep.). In 1811 and 1812, Hoppe suffered financial difficulties and was imprisoned at Newgate for bank ruptcy (Times of London, 5 June 1811; London Gazette, 1620 July 1811, 1822 Feb., 2630 May, 1115 Aug. 1812).
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From Benjamin Lincoln Sir/ Boston July 18th 1804 It is with pleasure that I announce to you the safe arrival of Nine Packages for the President of the United States Shipped by Stephen Cuetralun Junr—Comercial Agent of said States at Marseilles in the Brig Albion John Dagget Master to my care and a request that I would forward them to you by the very first opportunity prompted by duty and inclination every attention will be paid to the business I am Sir with the highest consideration & esteem Your obedient servant B: Lincoln PS When the packages are shipped I will give you early notice on what vessel & will also forward the Papers— RC (MHi); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqe President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 26 July and so recorded in SJL.
For the shipment from Stephen Catha lan (cuetralun), see his letter of 25 Apr. to TJ.
From John Marrast Monsieur Norfolk ce 18 Juillet 1804. J’ay l’honneur de vous avizér que J’ay chargé sur la Goellete Maria, Capne O’mares, à votre adresse, une Caisse Contenant quarante deux livres bougie Blanche; Il m’est de toute inposibilité pour le momant de Completér vos or dres. Par le defaut de pouvoir me procurér de la Cireverte soudin que je pourrois en trouvér. Je m’en priseray à vous l’Expédier; Jay l’honneur d’Etre trés Respécteusemt Monsieur Votre trés humble & trés obt. serviteur. John Marrast e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Sir, Norfolk, 18 July 1804 I have the honor of informing you that I have sent you a case containing 42 pounds of white candles in the schooner Maria, Captain Meara. I cannot fulfill the rest of your order at this time, because I am not able to find green wax, but as soon as I do, I will send it promptly. With respect, Sir, I have the honor of being your humble and very obedi ent servant. John Marrast RC (MHi); endorsed by TJ as received 26 July and so recorded in SJL.
John Marrast was a Norfolk merchant until at least 1820, and before moving to
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1 8 J U LY 1 8 0 4 Alabama. By 1829, he was among the Americans who had joined the Tombeck bee Association, originally a group of French refugees who, in 1817, had re ceived special considerations from Con gress to purchase lands in Alabama Ter ritory for “the cultivation of the vine and olive.” During this same period, Marrast sought help from Congress in retrieving nearly 600,000 francs in property losses caused by French spoliations prior to 1800
(Norfolk American Beacon, 19 Aug. 1820; asp, Public Lands, 3:343; 6:21; js, 16:56; 41:38; James F. Hopkins and Mary W. M. Hargreaves, eds., The Papers of Henry Clay, 11 vols. [Lexington, Ky., 195992], 5:166; John Marrast, Memorial of John Marrast: of Greensborough, Alabama, Praying Indemnity for Spoliations by France, Prior to 1800, &c. [Washington, D.C., 1832], 12).
To Philip Mazzei My dear Sir Washington July 18. 1804. It is very long I know since I wrote you. the following letters of yours I believe are all unacknoleged. 1801. Feb. 5. July 2. Nov. 15. 1802. Apr. 10. 17. Sep. 28. 1803. Apr. 15. May 20. Oct. 25 to Dec. 28. 1804. Jan. 27. Mar. 8. so constant is the pressure of business that there is never a moment scarcely that something of public importance is not waiting [for me]. I have therefore on a principle of conscience thought it my [duty to withdraw almost] entirely from all private cor respondence, and chiefly the transatlantick: I scarcely write a letter a year to any friend beyond sea. another consideration has led to this, which is the liability of my letters to miscarry, be opened & made ill use of. altho’ the great body of our country are perfectly returned to their antient principles, yet there remains a phalanx of old tories and monarchists more envenomed as all their hopes become more desper ate. every word of mine which they can get hold of, however innocent, however orthodox even is twisted, tormented, perverted, and, like the words of holy writ, are made to mean every thing but what they were intended to mean. I trust little therefore unnecessarily in their way, and especially on political subjects. I shall not therefore be free to answer all the several articles of your letters. you express some sur prise at the circumstance of our consuls not being our navyagents in the ports where they reside. the consuls are appointed by the Secre tary of state, & subject to him: the Navy agents by the Secretary of the Navy, and only in ports where he expects our armed vessels may have occasion to resort. these are at present a few ports in the Mediterra nean only. these agents have great sums passing thro’ their hands, and a great responsability rests on the Secy. of the Navy for the fidelity, & skill of the agents he selects. it would not be reasonable that he should answer for persons appointed by the Secretary of State, nor yet that 110
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the secretary of state should remove a Consul because he happens not to be exactly the man whom the Secretary of the Navy chuses to trust, and that trust for a very short time perhaps, and never to be renewed. it is certainly better that they should be free to name separate agents.— on the subject of treaties our system is to have none with any nation as far as can be avoided. the treaty with England has therefore not been renewed, and all overtures for treaty with other nations have been declined. we believe that with nations as with individuals deal ings may be carried on as advantageously, perhaps more so, where their continuance depends on a voluntary good treatment, as if fixed by a contract which, when it becomes injurious to either is made by forced constructions to mean what suits you & becomes a cause of war instead of a bond of peace. we wish to be on the closest terms of friendship with Naples, and we will prove it by giving to her citizens vessels & goods all the privileges of the most favored nation; and while we do this voluntarily, we cannot doubt she will voluntarily do the same for us. our interests against the Barbaresques being also the same, we have little doubt she will give us every facility to injure them which our situation may ask & hers admit. it is not then from a want of friendship we do not propose a treaty with Naples, but because it is against our system to embarrass ourselves with treaties, or to en tangle ourselves at all with the affairs of Europe. the kind offices we recieve from that government are more sensibly felt as such than they would be if rendered only as due to us by treaty. five fine frigates left the Chesapeake the 1st. instant for Tripoli, which in addition to the force now there will I trust recover the credit which Commodore Morris’s two years sleep lost us, & for which he has been broke. I think they will make Tripoli sensible that they mistake their interest in chusing war with us: & Tunis also should she have declared war as we expect and almost wish.—notwithstanding this little diversion, we pay 7. or 8. millions of dollars annually of our public debt, and shall compleatly discharge it in 12. years more. that done our annual rev enue now 13. millions of Dollars, which by that time will be 25. will pay the expences of any war we may be forced into without new taxes or loans. the spirit of republicanism is now in almost all it’s antient vigor, five sixths of the people being with us. 14. of the 17. states are compleatly with us, & 2. of the other 3. will be in one year. we are now got back to the ground on which you left us. I should have re tired at the end of the first 4. years but that the immense load of tory calumnies which have been manufactured respecting me & filled the European market have obliged me to appeal once more to my country for a justification. I have no fear but that I shall recieve honorable 111
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testimony by their verdict on those calumnies. at the end of the next 4. years I shall certainly retire. age, inclination and principle all dic tate this. my health, which at one time threatened an unfavorable turn, is now firm. the acquisition of Louisiana, besides doubling our extent, and trebling our quantity of fertile country is of incalculable value as relieving us from the danger of war. it has enabled us to do a handsome thing for Fayette. he had recieved a grant of between 11. & 12.000. acres of land North of the Ohio, worth perhaps a dollar an acre. we have obtained permission of Congress to locate it in Louisi ana. locations can be found adjacent to the city of N. Orleans, in the island of N. Orleans and in it’s vicinity, the value of which cannot be calculated. I hope it will induce him to come over & settle there with his family. mr Livingston having asked leave to return, Genl. Arm strong, his brother in law goes in his place; he is of the first order of talents. I must now give you my sincere thanks for the trees vines &c. which you sent me, and which are now growing here. they came in the most perfect order, so that I doubt if one will be lost. they will be removed to Monticello next spring. the stones are planted, but will not sprout till next spring. the Alpine strawberry alone failed. they had compleatly rotted. mr Appleton was so kind as to send me a fine collection of vines, selected from the Botanical garden of Florence by the Director Lastri, which arrived soon after your’s in fine order also and are now growing. I had asked from him some samples of the best wines of Italy. he sent me samples of Chianti, Pomino, Verdea, Alleatico, and a good supply of Montepulciano. being put into strong bottles well corked & cemented, & without oil, they have come in perfect order. the last pleases immensely, insomuch that I have sent to him for a new supply, and believe I shall import it habitually every winter, in which season it will come safe. he has not yet informed me of the price, nor who makes the best crops.—the books you were so kind as to send me came safe and claim my thanks. could you get me Molina’s account of Peru, & deliver it for me to mr Appleton who will pay the price for me.—remarkeable deaths lately are Samuel Adams, Edmund Pen dleton, Alexander Hamilton, Stevens Thomson Mason, Mann Page, Bellini. & Parson Andrews. to these I have the inexpressible grief of adding the name of my youngest daughter who had married a son of mr Eppes, and has left two children. my eldest daughter alone re mains to me, and has 6. children. this loss has increased my anxiety to retire, while it has dreadfully lessened the comfort of doing it. Wythe, Dickinson & Charles Thomson are all living and are firm republi cans. you informed me formerly of your marriage, & your having a 112
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daughter, but have said nothing in your late letters on that subject. yet whatever concerns your happiness is sincerely interesting to me, and is a subject of anxiety, retaining as I do cordial sentiments of es teem & affection for you. Accept I pray you my sincere assurances of this with my most friendly salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); faint; at foot of first page: “P. Mazzei.” Probably enclosed in TJ to Thomas Appleton, 19 July. Mazzei’s letter of 28 sep. was written in 1801 (see Vol. 35:3534). For his let ters of 2 July 1801 and 20 May 1803, see Vol. 34:692n and Vol. 40:723. five fine frigates: see TJ to John Condit, 14 Apr. molina’s account: for some time TJ had been seeking a copy of a work by Juan Ignacio Molina, the Compendio della storia geografica, naturale, e civile del regno del Chile. Molina, a native of Chile, was a professor of natural sciences in Bo logna, where his book was published in 1776. Chile was originally part of the viceroyalty of peru, and some maps and
sources from the colonial period labeled all of western South America as Peru (dsb; Waldemar Espinoza Soriano, Virreinato Peruano: Vida Cotidiana, Instituciones y Cultura [Lima, 1997], 3950; Vol. 16:3889). remarkeable deaths: Samuel Adams on 2 Oct. 1803, Edmund Pendleton on 26 Oct. 1803, Alexander Hamilton on 12 July 1804, Stevens Thomson Mason on 9 May 1803, Mann Page of Mannsfield on 22 Mch. 1803, Carlo Bellini in June 1804, and Robert Andrews on 28 Jan. 1804 (Hagerstown Maryland Herald and Elizabeth-Town Weekly Advertiser, 6 Apr. 1803; Philadelphia Gazette of the United States, 13 Feb. 1804; Vol. 38:214n; Vol. 40:5223n; Vol. 42:251n, 3667; TJ to Martha Jefferson Randolph, 17 July).
From William Roberts Wednesday Morng. [18 July 1804]
Mr Roberts of Norfolk after conferring on himself the Satisfaction of paying his respects in Company with his Sister Mrs. Taylor to Mr. Jefferson last Summer, at Monticello, amused himself with taking various drawings of the Scenery through which he passed. Two of these Views being, he believes, favourites of Mr. Jefferson, he has had them copied in Oil Colours, and will be gratified by the President’s acceptance of them. He will take the Liberty of renewing his respect this morning— RC (MHi); partially dated; endorsed by TJ as received 18 July and so recorded in SJL. paying his respects: William Rob erts and his sister visited Monticello in late July 1803 (Vol. 41:11112). two of these views: TJ described the Natural Bridge and Harpers Ferry in
his Notes on the State of Virginia and en couraged artists to paint them. TJ hung Roberts’s landscapes in the dining room at Monticello. While the oil paintings have not been found, engravings based on these works were later made by J. C. Stadler and Joseph Jeakes (Stein, Worlds, 190).
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To Thomas Appleton Sir Washington July 19. 04 Your favors of Jan. 20. and Mar. 15. have been duly recieved, as also the books, vines, and wines announced in them, for which I pray you to accept my thanks, and to communicate the same to M. Lastri for his book and the vines. these last came in fine order and are now growing here. the wines came also in perfect order, & there is no doubt but the method you adopted for their safe keeping was the best, to wit the putting them into strong bottles, well corked and cimented, and without oil on the top, which is an awkward and troublesome thing with us to be removed. the Aleatico is a fine wine, but certainly not in proportion to the difference of price you intimate. the Chianti, Pomino & Verdea are good wines, the last least so, but best of all is the Montepulciano. I have seen no wine please more, insomuch that I must not be without it hereafter. I have therefore inclosed you a bill of exchange on London for 250. Dollars, to cover the cost of the par cel before sent, and of as much more as it will cover to be sent im mediately on reciept of this. not having recieved your account of the cost, I have been unable to provide for any definite quantity. we are here in a place not at all commercial, and where bills of exchange are hardly to be got; and being myself entirely unacquainted with that kind of business it is somewhat embarrassing. if you had any mercan tile or other connection here to whom a paiment would answer your purpose, your bills on me to the amount of any future supplies at 30. days sight should be punctually honored. in that case in addition to the 2d. supply to be sent immediately & for which a remittance is now made, I would ask a third of about a gross, to be sent off in the winter, so as to arrive here by the first of March, before any warm weather, and to draw on me for the amount: or should you have drawn on me for the first supply, I will honor your draught, and it will go towards credit for the third. it may come addressed to the collector of any port from Boston or New York to Norfolk inclusive. I shall be glad if you succeed in getting the bust of Genl. Washing ton from the Sculptor for the 20. guineas he paid for it. but there would be danger of a copy being put off for the original. if the origi nal cannot be got with certainty, I would be glad he would furnish a copy in plaister at his ordinary price, with the necessary additions for an extraordinary care in packing. Accept my salutations and assur ances of respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of first page: “Mr. Thos. Appleton”; endorsed by TJ. Nota
tion in SJL: “Exche. 250. D.” Enclosures: (1) Bill of exchange for 250 dollars drawn
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1 9 J U LY 1 8 0 4 on James Maury of Liverpool, not found, but see TJ’s financial memoranda for 19 July (mb, 2:11323). (2) Probably TJ to Philip Mazzei, 18 July (see Appleton to TJ, 24 Dec. 1804).
For TJ’s attempt to secure Giuseppe Ceracchi’s plaster bust of George Wash ington, see TJ to Appleton, 5 July 1803.
To William O. Callis Dear Sir Washington July 19. 04. On reciept of your letter asking employment in the navy for your son, I inclosed it to the Secretary of the Navy who is at present at Baltimore. his answer is that your son can take his station with the midshipmen, and that his first emploiment will be in one of the gun boats. you omitted to mention his name, or the warrant would now have been sent. as I set out for Monticello in 4. days it will be shorter for you to address the information of the name directly to ‘Robert Smith Secretary of the navy at Baltimore’ who will forward the War rant and instructions to whatever place you shall direct. Accept my friendly salutations & assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “William Callis esq.”; endorsed by TJ.
your letter: see Callis to TJ, 2 July.
To William Jarvis Dear Sir Washington July 19. 04. Your favor of Oct. 26. as also the 2. pipes of Termo came safely to hand in the course of the winter. we are here at a place of no com merce at all, of no resources for remittances, and I am so unskilled in that kind of operation, that it has laid over longer than it ought to have done. I have at length got a bill from mr Madison drawn on a Mr. Maury merchant of Liverpool having tobaccoes of his in his hands, endorsed by myself, for 300. D. at 60. Days sight, which may be relied on solidly on every consideration. this, if I calculate the 170. Milreas rightly, is sufficient to cover the 2. pipes of Termo, and probably the two half pipes of Oeyras. for you must be so kind as to permit me to decline the offer of acceptance of the two last, on an assurance that it is contrary to a law I have laid down for the government of my own conduct never to accept a present of any value while in public office: at the same time that your kind intentions are equally acknoleged as 115
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if they could have been accepted. as I should be glad to recieve one pipe a year of the best Termo, if you could make it convenient to draw on me at 30. days sight for the amount, it would relieve me from the embarrasment of making a remittance, and prevent such a delay as has occurred in the present instance. the wine should always be in a double case, or it is sure to be adulterated before it gets to it’s ulti mate destination. should my present remittance be below the proper sum, be so good as to add the deficiency to your draught on me for the pipe to be forwarded for this year’s supply. Accept my thanks for your attentions, my friendly salutations and assurances of esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “William Jarvis esq.”; endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “Exche. 300.D.” Enclosure: bill of exchange for 300 dollars drawn on James Maury of Liverpool, not found (mb, 2:11323).
From Philip Mazzei 19 Luglio, 1804.
Nelle mie 2 precedenti dei 15 e 25 del mese passato, preoccupato com’ero da interessantissimi soggetti, trascurai di ragguagliarla degli effetti dell’intempestivo caldo in gennaio, febbraio, e quasi ⅔ di Marzo, e del freddo che successe. Il freddo continovò fino agli 8 di Maggio. Tutti i frutti avevano allegato senza eccettuarne i più tardivi, quando principiò. Seccarono coi frutti le cime delle piante, alcune delle quali morirono, e tutte patirono. Le raccolte sono state generalmente scarse. La stravaganza delle stagioni è stata presso a poco uguale (per quanto sento) in tutta l’Europa, e gradirò di sapere se l’istesso à successo nell’America settentrionale. A Varsavia, dove la Vistula si traversa ogni anno 5 mesi da Carri che portano pesi enormi, principiò a gelare verso il fine di Marzo, ma non gelò a segno da poter sostenere un’uomo. Mi confermo al solito, qual fui, sono, e sarò, usque ad mortem, non ultra, Suo &c. e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
19 July 1804 In my two preceding letters of the 15th and 25th of last month, concerned as I was with most relevant subjects, I did not report to you anything about the unseasonably warm weather that characterized January, February, and almost two thirds of March, or about the cold that ensued. Such cold weather lasted until 8 May. All fruit had already set, including lateseason ones, when
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1 9 J U LY 1 8 0 4 it started. The treetops withered together with the fruit. Some trees died; all suffered. The harvests have been generally scarce. The weather has been (from what I hear) almost as extravagant throughout Europe, and I would be grateful to know whether the same is true for North America. In Warsaw, where the Vistula can be crossed every year for a good five months by car riages carrying huge loads, the river began to freeze toward the end of March, but never enough to hold a man’s weight. I confirm that I have been, am, and will be—usque ad mortem, non ultra— yours etc. Dft (Archivio Fillipo Mazzei, Pisa, Italy); part of a conjoined series of Maz zei’s drafts of letters to TJ (see Margherita Marchione and Barbara B. Oberg, eds., Philip Mazzei: The Comprehensive Microform Edition of His Papers, 9 reels [Mill
wood, N.Y., 1982]). Recorded in SJL as received 2 Nov. usque ad mortem, non ultra: that is, until death, not beyond.
From William Short July 19 [1804]
Jeffn. Pr.—ansr. his of 9th—Change as to Barnes—pity no place cd. be found for him &c.—the payments made by B. were March & May—As to the Cahusac, an acct shall be sent &c—as to Laf. & the location, & the idea of his negotiation with an Amer. in business at Paris—plan of Ballston springs & Boston & province of Maine—in winter perhaps to Charleston—the longer I stay here the greater my aversion to leaving it—the advantage of the [invaribility] of Govt. &c. &c.—as to my letter in Jan or Feb. last relative to Price &c—letters here or at Philad. will be sent after me FC (DLC: Short Papers); partially dated; entirely in Short’s hand, consist ing of an entry in his epistolary record. Recorded in SJL as a letter of 22 July received that day from New York.
TJ had helped John barnes seek em ployment in Philadelphia (Vol. 40:6367).
From Robert Smith Sir, Balt. July 19. 1804. The publication in Major Jackson’s paper to which the enclosed alludes I have not seen. I know not its Object nor the quarter whence the information proceeded. But the Statement of Com. Truxtun in its material parts is correct to my knowledge and to the knowledge of many of the inhabitants of Balt. My commentary upon his text is that he is anxious to be appointed at the Head of the Navy Yard at Washn. 117
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I have had intimations from some of his friends that such an appoint ment is the height of his ambition. The Affair of Gen Hamilton and Col Burr has excited much sensi bility. It is greatly to be lamented that a gentleman, holding so high a station as the Second Office in the Government of his Country, should feel the necessity of descending to such an expedient!! Alas! poor Human Nature—. Respectfully, Y.H.S. Rt Smith RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Presi dent”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 20 July and “Truxton” and so recorded in SJL. En closure: probably Truxtun to TJ, 10 July.
the publication: see note at Trux tun to TJ, 10 July.
To Samuel Harrison Smith Th:J. to mr Smith. [19 July 1804] Is it worth while to contradict the barefaced falsehoods of Coleman in the 2d. page 5th. column of the inclosed paper. It is false that I ever drew such a paper as is there ascribed to me. It is false that I ever signed such a paper drawn by another. the appeal to the records of any state for a paper so signed is with out foundation. I believe that such a paper was drawn by a very timid, honest man, long since dead, (the father of the present Nicholases) and passed the H. of Delegates of Virginia; but I do not recollect it with certainty, nor what part I took in it: but probably I opposed it with Patrick Henry, the Lees & the Masons as we all moved in con cert; tho’ it is possible we may have merely let the thing pass to gratify the drawer and secure him with us. I leave this to your own judgment. RC (DLC: J. Henley Smith Papers); undated; addressed: “Mr. Samuel H. Smith”; note by Smith at foot of text: “Received above July 19. 1804. which re lates to charge of his having drawn or Signed ‘the Address to the King of Great Britain’—Noticed in Nat. Intel. of July 23. 1804”; endorsed by Smith. Enclosure: New-York Evening Post, 6 July. barefaced falsehoods: the 6 July issue of William Coleman’s New-York Evening Post asserted that TJ probably
authored, and certainly signed, the 1775 appeal to George III that is often called the second “olive branch” petition. Cole man stated that the document, with TJ’s original signature, was “preserved on the public records of the country.” TJ, confused about which document Coleman referred to, was mistaken when he claimed not to have signed the peti tion (Vol. 1:21923). the father: Robert Carter Nicholas, who in 1775 strove to moderate the Vir ginia assembly’s response to the royal gov
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1 9 J U LY 1 8 0 4 ernment. He was not in Congress or in volved with the olive branch petition (Ford, 1:1518). your own judgment: in the 23 July issue of the National Intelligencer under the title “New Series of Federal Misrep resentations. No. XV,” Smith reprinted and refuted the item from the Evening Post. Citing “the authority of a friend of Mr. Jefferson, who has long enjoyed his confidence, & acted with him in many of the important scenes of the revolution,” the Intelligencer pronounced the 6 July piece a “libel” and categorically denied that TJ had written or signed the paper ad
dressed to the British monarch. “We will not forego this opportunity of remark ing,” the rebuttal stated, “that there is a kind of infuriated malice, with which, on all occasions, the character of Mr. Jeffer son is attacked by this Print”—the Evening Post—“that looks more like personal hatred than party violence.” Detecting an attempt by the Post to question TJ’s role in the composition of the Declaration of Independence, Smith in his anonymous commentary stated that he had seen “the original draft of this eloquent instrument” and “perceived that it was, in the first in stance, drawn by Mr. Jefferson.”
To Joseph Yznardi, Sr. Dear Sir Washington July 19. 04. The butt of dry Sherry mentioned in your letter of the 3d. of April came safe to hand. I had already taken measures to make you the re mittance for it in consequence of former advice, when I recieved your letter informing me you had drawn on me for the amount. I therefore stopped the remittance. unfortunately my letter mentioning that I should remit, got to you in time to prevent your draught coming and it was not till sometime last month I recieved your favor of Apr. 3. informing me you had stopped the draught. I therefore now inclose you a bill for 200. D. drawn by mr Madison on a merchant in Liver pool having his tobaccoes in hand, and endorsed by myself. the drawee is moreover my old schoolfellow and friend so that the bill is most certain of being honored. continuing the favor of sending me once a year a pipe of the same quality, I will hereafter depend on your drawing on me at 30. days sight, which shall be always honored, and will prevent these crossexpectations which disappoint us both. it would be more agreeable if the next pipe you send should be of dry Pacharetti of first quality. I have regularly put into the hands of the Secretary of state such communications as you have favored me with, of an official nature. I pray you to accept my salutations and assurances of constant esteem and respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Joseph Yznardi esq.”; endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “Exche. 200. D.” Enclosure: bill of exchange for 200 dollars drawn on James Maury of Liverpool, not found (mb, 2:11323).
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To John Armstrong of New York Dear Sir Washington July 20. 04. I inclose you a letter for mr Cathalan our Commercial agent at Marseilles, a great wealthy and cautious merchant, whose father first and himself since has been our Consul at that place near thirty years, and is a most zealous servant. the letter covers a bill of exchange and I will pray you to put it into the post office on your arrival at Paris. wishing for yourself and family a prosperous & pleasant passage, which the season promises I pray you to accept my salutations and assurances of great esteem and respect. Th: Jefferson P.S. I recommend to your attentions my longtried friend M. Dupont de Nemours, who will certainly call on you. he is one of the ablest men in France as you will see by his writings, an extremely amiable and warm hearted one and has ever been one of the most zealous friends of the US. I reposed great confidence in him in the affair of Louisiana. PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Genl. Armstrong”; endorsed by TJ. Enclosure: TJ to Stephen Cathalan, Jr., 11 July.
To James Brown Sir Washington July 20. 04. In the arrangements proposed for the new government of the ter ritory of Orleans to commence on the 1st. of Oct. next, I am desirous of availing the public of your services as Secretary of the territory. on turning to the law for that establishment you will see what are it’s duties and emoluments. you will oblige me by giving me as early in telligence as you can whether I may count on your acceptance, as it is important to compleat the arrangements in time. Accept my saluta tions and assurances of esteem and respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “James Brown esq.”; endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “to be Secy.”
To Stephen Cathalan, Jr. Dear Sir Washington July 20. 04. I wrote you on the 11th. instant with a P.S. of this day coverg. the 1st of a set1 of exchange of which the 2d.2 is now inclosed, drawn by Victor Dupont on the house of Dupont de Nemours pere et fils et co. 120
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at Paris for 1312½ francs to pay you the balance of 885. francs due you, and for the further purpose stated in that letter; which as it went by Genl. Armstrong our Min. Plenipo. to Paris, will reach you with certainty tho perhaps not as soon as the present. referring therefore to that I shall add only my friendly salutations and assurances of great esteem & respect for yourself & family Th: Jefferson RC (Archives municipales, Marseilles, France); at foot of text: “M. Cathalan.” PrC (MHi); endorsed by TJ in ink on verso. Notation in SJL: “2.plicates & 3.plicates of the bills of Exche.,” con nected by a brace with letters of this date to Thomas Appleton, William Jarvis, and Joseph Yznardi, Sr. Enclosure: Dupl
of bill of exchange (see Victor Marie du Pont & Co. to TJ, 16 July). 1
Word interlined in place of “bill.” TJ originally left a blank here. He in serted the number on the RC but not the PrC. 2
To Dominick A. Hall Sir Washington July 20. 04. In the arrangements proposed for the new government of the ter ritory of Orleans, to commence on the 1st. of October next, I am de sirous of availing the public of your services as District judge of the territory. on turning to the law for that establishment you will see what are it’s duties and emoluments. you will oblige me by giving me as early information as you can whether I may count on your accep tance, as it is important to have that knolege as early as possible. ac cept my salutations & assurances of great respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Dominic A. Hall esq.”; endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “to be judge Distr.” Dominick Augustin Hall (ca. 1765 1820) was a Charleston, South Carolina, attorney and former state legislator. TJ appointed him chief judge of the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court in 1801, but the posi tion was eliminated the following year with the repeal of the Judiciary Act of 1801. Hall declined TJ’s offer of a bank
ruptcy commission in 1802, but accepted the U.S. district judgeship for Orleans Territory in 1804. Except for a brief ten ure on the Louisiana state supreme court in 1813, Hall remained on the federal dis trict bench for Orleans, and later Louisi ana, until his death (Biographical Directory of the Federal Judiciary, 1789-2000 [Lanham, Md., 2001], 532; dab; S.C. Biographical Directory, House of Representatives, 4:256; Vol. 33:332n, 676; Vol. 37:513n; Vol. 43:683, 688n).
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To Wade Hampton Dear Sir Washington July 20. 04. You recommended to me formerly a Major Thos. Fitzpatrick for some office in the Western country to which he proposed to remove. I shall be glad to avail the public of his services in the Commission for settling the claims to lands in the Missisipi territory. it may be neces sary for him to be at Natchez by the 1st. of Oct. but certainly before the 1st. of Dec. having heard nothing of his going or being in that country, I know not how he is to be found, and therefore take the liberty of asking the favor of you to write to him to know whether I may count on his acceptance. it is very important I should have the earliest answer possible, as in the present uncertainty there would be a certain period beyond which I could not delay filling the appoint ment with somebody. Accept my friendly salutations and assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PrC (DLC); at foot of text: “Colo. Hampton”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso. Notation in SJL: “for Thos. Fitz patrick,” connected by a brace with the letter to Thomas Sumter, Sr., of the same date.
For Hampton’s recommendation of Thomas fitzpatrick, see Vol. 40:250n, 723.
To William Jarvis Sir Washington July 20. 04. I wrote you a letter of detail yesterday covering the 1st. of a set of Exchange drawn by James Madison (the Secretary of State) on James Maury merchant of Liverpool, and endorsed by myself. referring to that letter, the object of the present is only to inclose the of the same set and to repeat my salutations, and assurances of esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PrC (MHi); at foot of text: “William Jarvis”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso. Notation in SJL: “2.plicates & 3.plicates of the bills of Exche.,” connected by a brace with letters of this date to Thomas
Appleton, Stephen Cathalan, Jr., and Jo seph Yznardi, Sr. Enclosure not found, but see TJ’s financial memoranda for 19 July (mb, 2:11323).
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To Richard Kennon Sir Washington July 20. 04. The act of Congress establishing the government of Louisiana has placed that of it’s several districts chiefly in a Commandant subject only to the superintendance of the Governor of Indiana at Vincennes. it is of great importance that these officers, 5. in number, of whom 3. will be Colos. and 2. Majors, should be filled with persons who may blend with great prudence the duties civil & military annexed to the office. I am desirous of availing the public of your services with the rank and emoluments of a Colo. in the regular service; and ask the favor of you to give me as early notice as you can whether I may count on your acceptance. the government commences the 1st. of Oct. next, and your residence would probably be either at St. Charles, St. Louis, Ste Genevieve or New Madrid. Accept my salutations and assurances of esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (MoSHi: Jefferson Papers); at foot of text: “Colo. Richard Kennon”; en dorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “to be Commandt. Col.” Richard Kennon (17591805) of Meck lenburg County, Virginia, served during the Revolutionary War and later received a commission as general in the state mili tia. He represented Mecklenburg County
in the House of Delegates from 1788 to 1792 and became speaker of the state sen ate in 1800 (vmhb, 31 [1923], 186; wmq, 2d ser., 14 [1905], 1345; Cynthia Miller Leonard, comp., The General Assembly of Virginia, July 30, 1619-January 11, 1978: A Bicentennial Register of Members [Rich mond, 1978], xvii, 169, 176, 180, 188, 213, 217, 222, 225; TJ to Dearborn, 30 Aug.).
To James Maury Dear Sir Washington July 20. 1804. Having occasion to make some remittances to Europe, I have pro cured from my friend mr Madison three sets of Exchange on you, to wit for 200. Dollars in favor of Joseph Yznardi at Cadiz 250. Dollars in favor of Thomas Appleton of Leghorn 300. D. in favor of William Jarvis at Lisbon 750. Dollars all at 60. days sight. these bills leave this now for their several destinations, will come round to you in due time and will we trust be duly honored. I have at several times recieved packets of newspapers which I percieved came from you, and which, altho’ my occupations have long obliged me to abandon the reading all European newspapers, yet they conveyed to me proofs of your kind attentions, and nourished 123
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the cordial recollections of our antient intimacies. I have found, in my progress through life that the friendships of our earliest years are those which are the deepest seated and inspire the most perfect con fidence. I assure you that mine for you has never abated, altho’ my incessant occupations have prevented the repeating expressions of it. your worthy brother, the parson, was well the last time I heard from him. his health was for some time unpromising but is got bet ter. We are filled with anxiety for the crisis internal as well as external thro’ which your adopted country is going. our business is a rigorous and faithful neutrality, to which we will certainly adhere. but it is impossible for us to look on the present state of things be tween France and England without the most lively solicitude. Accept I pray you my affectionate salutations, and assurances of my constant friendship and respect. Th: Jefferson RC (ViU); addressed: “Mr. James Maury Merchant Liverpool”; endorsed by Maury as received 8 and 25 Sep. PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ. procured from my friend mr mad ison: TJ reimbursed Madison for the bills of exchange with a check for $750,
dated 16 July, drawn on his account with the Office of Discount and Deposit in Washington (MS in ViU; printed form, with blanks for date, payee, and amount filled by TJ; signed and endorsed by TJ. See also mb, 2:1132). worthy brother: Matthew Maury (Vol. 37:2467).
To John B. Prevost Sir Washington July 20. 04. In the arrangements proposed for the new government of the Or leans territory to commence on the 1st. of October next, I am desirous of availing the public of your services as one of the judges of the Su perior court. by turning to the law for that establishment you will see what are it’s duties and emoluments. as the time is now arrived when the appointments should be fixed you will do me a favor by informing me as soon as you can whether we may count on your acceptance. I tender you my salutations & assurances of great respect Th: Jefferson RC (L. Dennis Shapiro, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, 1990); at foot of text: “Mr. Prevost.” PrC (ViW: TuckerColeman Collection). Notation in SJL: “to be judge Superr.” John Bartow Prevost (17661825) was born in New Jersey, the son of a Swiss born British officer who died in 1779 and
Theodosia Bartow Prevost, who in 1782 married Aaron Burr. When James Mon roe was appointed minister to France in 1794, Burr recommended his stepson as secretary to the legation. Monroe gave Prevost the position a year later. Prevost proved himself an “honorable, estimable man,” and following the acquisition of Louisiana Monroe encouraged Madison
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2 0 J U LY 1 8 0 4 and TJ to consider his former secretary for an appointment in the new territory. Prevost retired from the Orleans superior court in 1806. In 1807, he publicly dis tanced himself from his stepfather’s in trigues, and after an unsuccessful run for Congress in New Orleans, returned to New York. In 1817, President Monroe asked him to serve as a political agent in South America, a position he held until his death in Peru (Kline, Burr, 1:lxiv, lxvi; Mon
roe, Papers, 3:34, 415; 4:161; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 5:563; Terr. Papers, 9:608; Claude Halstead Van Tyne and Waldo Gifford Leland, Guide to the Archives of the Government of the United States in Washington [Washington, D.C., 1904], 14:27; New-York Evening Post, 23 Mch. 1807, 2 May 1815, 13 Jan., 23 Aug. 1825; Boston Columbian Centinel, 10 Aug. 1814; Monroe to TJ, 15 Mch. 1804).
From Robert Smith Sir, Navy Dept. 20 July 1804. The death of Mr. Enoch S. Lane First Lieutenant of Marines has occasioned a vacancy in that corps. I beg leave to suggest the propri ety of filling up the vacancy and at the same time to present for your consideration Mr. Love who has been recommended in such a manner as to induce a belief that he will do credit to the Appointment.— With high respect I am Sir yr. ob Servt. Rt Smith RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 28 July and “Love to be Lt.” and so re
corded in SJL. FC (Lb in DNA: RG 45, LSP). John C. love received a commission as second lieutenant of the Marine Corps (ndbw, Register, 65).
From Samuel Harrison Smith July 20. 1804.—
Recived from the President of the U.S. ten dollars and fifty1 cents on an account rendered—for the Nat. Intel. Univl. Gaz. and some pamphlets— Sam. H. Smith. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 20 July. In his financial memoranda, TJ recorded a payment of ten dollars to Smith for newspapers (mb, 2:1133).
univl. gaz.: the Universal Gazette was a weekly compilation from the National Intelligencer (Vol. 37:312n). 1 Preceding
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three words interlined.
To Thomas Sumter, Sr. Dear Sir Washington July 20. 04. You recommended to me formerly a Major Thos Fitzpatrick for some office in the Western country to which he proposed to remove. I shall be glad to avail the public of his services in the Commission for settling the claims to lands in the Missisipi territory. it may be neces sary for him to be at Natchez by the 1st. of Oct. but certainly before the 1st. of Dec. having heard nothing of his going or being in that country, I know not how he is to be found, and therefore take the liberty of asking the favor of you to write to him to know whether I may count on his acceptance. it is very important I should have the earliest answer possible, as in the present uncertainty there would be a certain period beyond which I could not delay filling the appoint ment with somebody. Accept my friendly salutations and assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PrC (MoSHi: Jefferson Papers); at foot of text: “Genl. Sumpter”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso. Notation in SJL: “for Thos. Fitzpatrick,” connected by a brace with the letter to Wade Hampton of the same date.
For Sumter’s recommendation of Thomas fitzpatrick, see Vol. 40:250n, 722.
To Joseph Yznardi, Sr. Sir Washington July 20. 04. I wrote you a letter of detail yesterday, covering the 1st. of a set of Exchange drawn by James Madison (Secretary of state) on James Maury resident of Liverpool and endorsed by myself. referring to that letter, the object of the present is only to inclose the of the same sd. and to repeat my salutations and assurances of esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PrC (DLC); in ink at foot of text: “Jo seph Yznardi”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso. Notation in SJL: “2.plicates & 3.plicates of the bills of Exche.,” con
nected by a brace with letters of this date to Thomas Appleton, Stephen Cathalan, Jr., and William Jarvis. Enclosure not found.
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To Jacob Crowninshield Dear Sir Washington July 21. 04. I recieved last night your favor of the 14th. and have to thank you for the Halibut and tongues & sounds. having opened one of the boxes only and finding no fins in it I had concluded they were not to be had. I shall find them in the other box at Monticello to which place they go. whenever you will be so good as to let me know the cost it shall be remitted. the conduct of the Cambrian has opened a very serious discussion. it is of such a character, and is so urged on Great Britain by us, that it is impossible she should not disavow it and pun ish the Captain to our satisfaction. at the next session we must be authorised to refuse our ports to belligerents but under such regula tions as we shall find sufficient to ensure obedience to the laws, and we must have a force of gunboats sufficient to compel obedience in every seaport. this subject is so serious that it will be laid before you, and I think the course we have taken will give satisfaction.—the gun boat here far exceeds expectation, in her sailing and is really a fine seaboat. we expect hourly one from Norfolk, much lighter and said to be a model of beauty. both will go off immediately for Charleston, Savannah & that quarter to keep the West India pirates in order. about a dozen others are ordered, which are as much as the appro priation will cover. the two small vessels intended for the same pur pose we are obliged to build. I sincerely rejoice at the union of senti ment growing so fast with you in opposition to the lessons of disunion vended by the federal Maniacs. I believe that by the ensuing Year the New England states will all be with us. it would have been balm to me could it have come about one year sooner. however it will be balm, happen when it will, to have gathered all the states again into one sen timent, and so to deliver them over to my successor. accept my friendly salutations and assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Mr. Crowninshield.”
will be laid before you: that is, brought before Congress.
To Alexander J. Dallas Dear Sir Washington July 21. 04. I recieved last night your favor of July 17. Doctr. Franklin left nothing with me when he left Paris, not even a scrip of a paper; be cause we concurred in opinion that as he left nothing unfinished, the 127
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office of foreign affairs here was the proper deposit for his papers. I heard nothing of his having any other deposits. certainly he left none of any kind with me. had a deposit of silver been made with him, I am sure he would not have kept it in his house, but would have lodged it with mr Grand the banker of the US. his banker & intimate friend. and if lodged with mr Grand, then Grand the son, still living, W. T. Franklin who did all his business, and his other Secretary (whose name I forget) can probably give an account of it. your letter is the first intimation I have recieved of the existence of such a circumstance. Accept my salutations and assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (FitzEugene Dixon, Jr., Winter Harbor, Maine, 1948). PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Mr. Dallas”; endorsed by TJ.
From Alexander J. Dallas Sir. 21 July 1804. From the tenor of your obliging answer to my letter of the 17h. instant, I fear I have expressed myself inaccurately. Mr. Wharton does not state, in his deposition, that the silver was deposited with Dr. Franklin but the Bills of Lading for the silver. Pardon the trouble of this explanation; and be assured of the sincere respect and attach ment, with which I am, Sir, Yr. mo. Hble Serv. A. J. Dallas RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from Philadelphia 28 July and so recorded in SJL.
From Brockholst Livingston Sir, NewYork 21st. July 1804— Mr. Robert Macomb, who is the bearer hereof, being on a visit to Washington, is desirous of having the honor of waiting on you—I therefore take the liberty of giving him this letter, and can add, with great truth, that he is a very worthy & promising young man, and bids fair to become an ornament to his country & a useful member of society— I have the honor to be Sir, your very obt. Servt— Brockholst Livingston RC (MHi); at foot of text: “Thos. Jefferson Esqr:”; endorsed by TJ as received 27 Dec. and so recorded in SJL with notation “by Mc.Comb.”
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From Robert Smith Sir, Navy Dept.—21 July 1804. A Purser is required for Gunboat No 1, under Command of Lieut. Lovell. Mr. Carr for whom the enclosed warrant is intended has here tofore acted in the station of Purser with credit to himself and advan tage to the public and is one of that grade of officers who retired under the peace establishment act. If you approve of this nomination I have the honor to request your signature to the enclosed Warrant.— With respect, I am Sir; yr. ob Servt. Rt Smith RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “The President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as re ceived from the Navy Department on 28 July and “Carr purser” and so recorded in SJL. FC (Lb in DNA: RG 45, LSP); misdated as 31 July.
John H. carr was the purser for the frigate Constellation from 1800 to 1801. After his reinstatement in 1804, Carr served on board Gunboat No. 1 and the frigate John Adams (ndbw, Register, 9).
To Abigail Adams Dear Madam Washington July 22. 04. Your favor of the 1st. inst. was duly recieved, and I would not again have intruded on you but to rectify certain facts which seem not to have been presented to you under their true aspect. my charities to Callendar are considered as rewards for his calumnies. as early, I think, as 1796. I was told in Philadelphia that Callendar, the author of the Political progress of Britain, was in that city, a fugitive from prosecution for having written that book, and in distress. I had read and approved the book: I considered him as a man of genius, unjustly persecuted. I knew nothing of his private character, and immediately expressed my readiness to contribute to his relief, & to serve him. it was a considerable time after, that, on application from a person who thought of him as I did, I contributed to his relief, and afterwards re peated the contribution. himself I did not see till long after, nor ever more than two or three times. when he first began to write he told some useful truths in his coarse way; but no body sooner disapproved of his writings than I did, or wished more that he would be silent. my charities to him were no more meant as encouragements to his scur rilities than those I give to the beggar at my door are meant as re wards for the vices of his life, & to make them chargeable to myself. in truth they would have been greater to him had he never written a word after the work for which he fled from Britain. with respect to the 129
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calumnies and falsehoods which writers and printers at large pub lished against mr Adams, I was as far from stooping to any concern or approbation of them as mr Adams was respecting those of Porcu pine, Fenno, or Russell, who published volumes against me for every sentence vended by their opponents against mr Adams. but I never supposed mr Adams had any participation in the atrocities of these editors or their writers. I knew myself incapable of that base warfare, & believed him to be so. on the contrary, whatever I may have thought of the acts of the administration of that day, I have ever borne testi mony to mr Adams’s personal worth, nor was it ever impeached in my presence without a just vindication of it on my part. I never sup posed that any person who knew either of us could believe that either meddled in that dirty work. but another fact is that I ‘liber ated a wretch who was suffering for a libel against mr Adams.’ I do not know who was the particular wretch alluded to: but I discharged every person under punishment or prosecution under the Sedition law, because I considered & now consider that law to be a nullity as absolute and as palpable as if Congress had ordered us to fall down and worship a golden image; and that it was as much my duty to ar rest it’s execution in every stage, as it would have been to have res cued from the fiery furnace those who should have been cast into it for refusing to worship their image. it was accordingly done in every instance, without asking what the offenders had done, or against whom they had offended, but whether the pains they were suffering were inflicted under the pretended Sedition law. it was certainly possible that my motives for contributing to the relief of Callender and liberat ing sufferers under the Sedition law, might have been to protect, en courage and reward slander: but they may also have been those which inspire ordinary charities to objects of distress, meritorious or not, or the obligations of an oath to protect the constitution, violated by an unauthorised act of Congress. which of these were my motives must be decided by a regard to the general tenor of my life. on this I am not afraid to appeal to the nation at large, to posterity, and still less to that being who sees himself our motives, who will judge us from his own knolege of them, and not on the testimony of a Porcupine or Fenno. You observe there has been one other act of my administration per sonally unkind, and suppose it will readily suggest itself to me. I de clare on my honor, Madam, I have not the least conception what act is alluded to. I never did a single one with an unkind intention. My sole object in this letter being to place before your attention that the acts imputed to me are either such as are falsely imputed, or as might flow from good as well as bad motives, I shall make no other addition 130
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than the assurances of my continued wishes for the health & happi ness of yourself & mr Adams. Th: Jefferson RC (MHi: Adams Papers); at foot of first page: “Mrs. Adams.” PoC (DLC). my charities to callendar: for TJ’s detailed recounting of his support of James Thomson Callender, see Vol. 38:724.
porcupine, fenno, or russell: the editors William Cobbett of Porcupine’s Gazette, John Fenno of the Gazette of the United States, and Benjamin Russell of the Columbian Centinel (Brigham, American Newspapers, 1:277; 2:912, 946).
To Daniel Carroll Brent Washington July 22. 04.
I have at different times recieved the inclosed papers on the sub ject of appointing some justices of peace for this city, which I have delayed to get better information. being on the eve of my departure for Monticello, I pray you to consider them, and to give in the names of any persons you think it would be advantageous to appoint to the chief clerk of the Secretary of state’s office who will forward me the commissions to be signed. Accept my friendly salutations and assur ances of great esteem & respect Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Colo. D. C. Brent”; endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “justices for Washn.” Enclosures: (1) Probably “Frazer & others” to TJ, undated, not found but recorded in SJL as received 9 Feb. 1804 with notation
“petn for justice Navy yard.” (2) “Parry & others” to TJ, also undated and not found; recorded in SJL as received 11 Feb. with notation “petn to appt. Levi White just. peace.” Other enclosures not identified.
To George Jefferson Dear Sir Washington July 22. 04. I leave this place for Monticello tomorrow. I have desired mr Barnes to remit you 700. D. which he will recieve about the 4th. or 6th of Aug. and will send you in bills of the bank US. here by the 8th. or 9th. I have consequently drawn on you in favor of Christopher Smith for 433⅓ D. payable Aug. 10. and shall further draw in favor of Joseph Brand for 250. D. Accept my affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr George Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ.
leave this place: TJ left Washing ton on 23 July and arrived at Monticello on the 27th. His travel expenses totaled $21.725 (mb, 2:11334).
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From Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Museum July 22d. 1804. Your Polygraph is in the Schooner Charming Mary, Captn. Potter, now on his passage to Richmond—It is in a tight packing case agre able to your directions. I have fortunately found an ingenious invention of Mr. Stansbury Junr. of New York for making several pens of a single quil, which will apply well to the Polygraph, I send enclosed a specimen of his Pens—and as soon as I can have made a pr. of brass Pentubes with the inner tube of thin brass in the same form, I shall send them in closed in a Letter to Washington, or in case of your departure, to be forwarded to Monticella. In my letter of 18th. Ult. I mentioned the advantages of using the Steel and quill pens togather, since which my Son Rembrandt has been constantly using them, writing daily two full sheets of paper, and, being just arrived from Baltimore he informs me the advantages became daily more evident. The Instrument which he used was very untrue in its movements and before the conjoint use of the quill pen could not be depended on, he has never found the necessity of look ing but at the first letter; the quill pen in this situation will write as much as a dozen pens in the common manner, so effectually is it pro tected by the Steel Pen in the hand; he informs me that at most it requires mending but once a day, and certainly has the advantage of writing a neater hand if one chuses. My workmen have made some of the folding Polygraphs of a smaller size than that you formerly had a tryal off, and the Machinery which we have lately constructed, ren ders them perfectly correct in the writing, as I have experienced in my use of one which I carried to new York, and exhibited several days at the TontinecoffeeHouse and, it is now my wish to get the few Poly graphs that I had parted with, sent back to me in order that I may not have one abroad that is not perfect. Therefore the time is now ar rived, in which we are safe, to give a good character of it, and, when perfectly convenient and agreable to you, such a letter as you was so obliging as to offer for publication, will be very acceptable, since you have nothing more to fear nor I to wish, in the defects or improve ments of the Instrument. One after your design is nearly completed for Mr. Armstrong, and will be sent to him in the course of this week. Mr. Latrobe has made an improvement of the Cover for such as are to be used in Public offices. Thus, The front Cover is a box; both front and back cover descending in a strait line, from the top of the Gal lows to the north & south sides of the Desk; the front cover hinged to 132
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the back cover at the top, and then writing unfinished may be locked up in an instant. This front cover when it is turned up, has two legs of brass which support it in a horizontal position, giving a convenient place to put such papers as are wanted while writing. with sentiments of high regard and esteem your friend C W Peale RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Hon ble Thos Jefferson Esquire”; endorsed by TJ as received 26 July and so recorded in SJL. PoC (Lb in PPAmP: PealeSellers Papers). The ingenious invention of Abra ham Ogier Stansbury was never patented but may have inspired English inventor Joseph Bramah’s 1809 patent for mak
ing “compound pens” by cutting a quill lengthways, then transversely, and then fashioning nibs at each end (“Patent of Mr. Joseph Bramah, of Pimlico, Middle sex, Engineer, for a Method of Making Pens,” Belfast Monthly Magazine, 6 [1811], 548; Robert D. Thomson, Records of General Science, 4 vols. [London, 1835 36], 1:398; Peale, Papers, v. 2, pt. 2:741n; List of Patents, 58).
From Antonio Porcile Excellence Calliari ce 22. juillet 1804. La grace que je viens de recevoir de votre Gouvernement, ainsi que de Vous Excellence qui en avezèté le cooperateur pour l’affranchisse ment de Madamoiselle ma fille Marie Anne Porcile, des chaînes de l’esclavage oû elle gemissoit a Tunis depuis six ans, m’offre les plus justes motifs de vous en temoigner les sentimens de mon entiere gra titude, et de ma plus vive reconnoissance, dont toute ma famille aussi a èté intimement penetrée. La générosité que des coeurs si bienfaisans ont bien voulu employer pour une fille malheureuse a plainement consolé une famille desolée, qui depuis plusieur années vivoit accablée de tristesse. Elle a ramené das le sein d’un Epoux gemissant, et du plus tendre pere son epouse fidelle avec cette fille cherie, que des barbares lui avoient ravis, et dont il n’y avoit aucun espoir de liberté sans les bienfaits de cette nation illustre du nouveau monde, qui fait l’ammiration de toute l’Europe: bienfaits disje, que je rappellerai toute ma vie, et que je ne me laisse rai jamais de repetter avec attendrissement est encore celui qui essuya les larmes d’un’autre fille compagne infortunée des premiers malheurs de ses péres, et de sa soeur, et qu’elle ne cessoit de verser depuis son depart de Tunis par une trop dure separation. C’est enfin ce bienfait qui sauva l’honneur d’une demoiselle qui etoit toujours en risque de perdre parmi des gens feroces qui ne connoissant d’autres sentimens que la violence, et la brutalité. 133
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Or que ma fille, apres avoir brisées les chaines de l’esclavage jouit d’une parfaite liberté au sein de sa patrie, et de sa famille, ne nous reste plus qu’a remercier infinement les EtatsUnis d’Amerique, ainsi que Vous, Excellence, des faveurs aussi grandes qu’innesperées sans les avoir méritées; et de nous prosterner en même tems devant l’Etre Supreme en lui adressant des voeux les plus ardens, afin qu’il daigne verser abondamment toutes sortes de benedictions, et de prosperites sur Vous, Excellence, et sur cette grande et genereuse Nation qui le merite par ses vertus. Cette genérosité même me fait oser vous demander encore une grace, qui metteroit le comble au bonheur de cette fille, que vous et votre Gouvernement a voulu par bonté proteger. Et c’est qu’ayant elle par dus das son esclavage des equipages, et des bijoux pour la somme à peu pres de deux mille piastres d’Espagne, vouliezvous vous inte resser pour lui faire rendre cette equivalent du Bey de Tunis, qui en profita du moins en partie. L’état malheureux de fortune oû m’a plongé, le pillage de ma maison et de presque tous mes biens, me font chercher ce petit dèdommagement. Du reste toujours reconnoissant, j’ose vous offrir tresheumblemt, ainsi qu’aux EtatsUnis mes foibles services, souhaitant de tout mon coeur trouver des ocasions pour vous temoigner ma gratitude et mon obéis sance; Vous supliant de vouloirbien m’accepter au service de la Repub lique de la meilleure façon que Vous jugerez à propos, et je vous prie, Excellence, de compter sur ma persone pour tout ce qui regarde mon exatitude a vous obeir, en vous assurant, ainsi qu’à toute la Nation, que vous trouverez en moi le serviteur le plus zelé et le plus fidelle, et un des amirateur de cette puissante, et sage Republique: je ne m’epargnerai en rien, et je ferai tous mes efforts pour rendre a tout sujet soumis à votre Gouvernement qui parviendrá en ce port, un petit retour des attentions, que vous avez bien voulu user pour la liberté de ma fille. Et en attendant vos ordres j’ai l’honneur d’être avec le plus profond respect, Excellence Votre tres humble et tresObbt. Servr. Chevr. Antoine Porcile e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Excellency, Cagliari, 22 July 1804 The blessing I have received from your government and from your excel lency in helping free the young lady my daughter, Maria Anna Porcile, from the chains of slavery in Tunis where she suffered for six years, is the best reason to express my great appreciation and deepest gratitude and that of my whole family.
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2 2 J U LY 1 8 0 4 The good will that such generous hearts showed an unfortunate girl brought great consolation to a despairing family that had been overwhelmed by sadness for several years. It reunited a faithful wife with her suffering husband and a most tender father with the beloved daughter whom barbar ians had seized from him. He had no hope for her freedom without the good will of this illustrious New World nation, which is admired by all of Europe. Kindness, I repeat, that I shall remember all my life, and will never tire of poignantly relating. This same generosity also dried the tears of another de spairing young woman, who lived through the anguish of her parents and sister. From the time her sister left for Tunis, she never stopped crying over the harsh separation. This same generosity preserved the honor of a young woman who was always in danger of losing it among cruel people who know no other sentiments than violence and brutality. Now that my daughter has broken the chains of slavery and enjoys full liberty in the bosom of her country and family, we have only to offer infinite thanks to the United States of America and to you, Excellency, for kind deeds that are as magnanimous as they are unexpected and totally undeserved. At the same time we bow down before the Supreme Being, offering him our most ardent vows, that he may deign to grant many blessings and favors on you, Excellency, and on the great and generous nation whose virtue warrants them. This same goodness prompts me to ask for one more favor, to complete the happiness of this young woman whom you and your government were kind enough to save. While she was a slave she lost belongings and jewels worth approximately 2,000 Spanish piasters. Could you try to have this sum re turned to her by the Bey of Tunis, who benefited at least in part from it? The sad state in which I have been plunged by the looting of my house and almost all my goods prompts me to ask for this small reparation. Grateful for all the rest, I dare in all humility offer you and the United States my modest services, hoping with all my heart to find opportunities to show you my gratitude and devotion. I beg you to accept me into the service of the republic in whatever capacity you judge appropriate, and I ask you, Excellency, to count on my total obedience. I assure you, and your country, that you will find in me the most zealous and faithful servant, an admirer of this powerful and wise republic. I will spare nothing and devote all my efforts to providing all subjects of your government who might enter this port a modest image of the attention you devoted to my daughter’s freedom. While awaiting your orders, in deepest respect, I have the honor, your excellency, of being your very humble and very obedient servant. Chevr. Antoine Porcile RC (ViW: TuckerColeman Collec tion); endorsed by TJ as received 5 Jan. 1805 and so recorded in SJL. Antonio Porcile was a son of Giovanni Porcile, the Conte di Sant’Antioco, and a brother of Carlo Vittorio Porcile, a Sar dinian naval and military commander, and of Andrea Porcile, an abbot. The family’s titles were from a religious and military order, the Ordine dei Santi Maurizio e
Lazzaro. When a Tunisian flotilla attacked the island of San Pietro in 1798, Antonio Porcile and members of his family were among hundreds of people who were taken prisoner and transported to Tunis as hostages. The Conte di Sant’Antioco successfully negotiated his son’s release the following year (Cronache inedite o poco note di alcuni fatti avvenuti in seguito all’invasione Tunisina sull’Isola di San Pietro: 1798-1803 [Cagliari, Italy, 2003],
135
2 2 J U LY 1 8 0 4 8, 1416, 30; Gin Racheli, L’Arcipelago del Sulcis e la sua storia [Calasetta, Italy, 1981], 1378, 146, 150; Pasquale Tola, Dizionario biografico degli uomini illustri di Sardegna, 3 vols. [Nuoro, Italy, 2001], 3:18991; Giorgio Pinna, Sant’Antioco: Ricerca e storia dell’identità [Sestu, Italy, 2007], 132). pour l’affranchissement de ma damoiselle ma fille: for the nego tiations and financial arrangements that secured the return of Antonio Porcile’s daughter Anna in June 1804, see Fran çois Navoni to TJ, 12 May and 15 June 1804. The young woman’s release sur prised the former U.S. consul at Tunis, William Eaton, who had stood as surety for the considerable sum that Porcile bor
rowed to ransom his daughter. Upon his return to the Mediterranean in Septem ber 1804, Eaton obtained a copy of Por cile’s letter to TJ and was astonished to learn that Porcile considered himself exon erated from the debt. Eaton quickly wrote to Madison to learn on what grounds Porcile based his claim. Madison replied that “no Act of this Government” released Porcile from Eaton’s demand against him. Eaton added the loss he suffered as Por cile’s surety to his financial claims against the United States (ndbw, 5:33; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:667, 461; 10:5989; asp, Claims, 1:3289; transla tion by Eaton of Porcile’s letter to TJ, in CSmH; Vol. 40:650).
To William Short Dear Sir Washington July 22. [1804] I am just winding up for my departure and therefore have only time to inform you that I have left with mr Barnes the means and the instructions to make you the usual remittances in the forepart of the months of August & September, during which I shall be absent, and that we shall not be altogether without the hope of seeing you at Monticello. Accept my affectionate salutations and assurances of con stant esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (MBBS: Jeremiah Colburn Autograph Collection, on deposit MHi); partially dated; endorsed by Short: “Ballstn Springs—Aug. 5.”
Notes on Shipment Gigg. Jones & Kean. Andrews. Composition
Venitian blinds No. 4 cheese. Lemaire
sausages tongues. small money.
Agenda.
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[before 23 July 1804]
2 3 J U LY 1 8 0 4 ⎧ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪
5 ⎨⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎩
box.
⎧ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪
6
⎪ ⎨ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎩
prunes paccans [. . .] maccaroni Liberty glass. planes. mounting for polygraph. box of Orleans sugar. box of print frames. sealing wax. books. crucibles locks. Lenox
MS (DLC: Madison Papers, Miscella neous Manuscripts); entirely in TJ’s hand, one word illegible; undated, but see below; follows Paragraph on Disaffected Citi zens, [1804?], on verso of same sheet as Notes on Washington Highways, [ca. 2 July 1804], interleaved in a bound volume of Madison’s notes (see Madison, Papers, 14:168n); with unrelated numerical cal culations by TJ along right margin. The items on TJ’s agenda indicate that this list related to a shipment or ship ments to Monticello in the summer of 1804. In June, he wrote James Dinsmore that he would be sending venetian blinds to his home. TJ forwarded to Monticello cod tongues received from Jacob Crown
inshield and had recently received from his European contacts such foodstuffs as prunes and macaroni. Pecans and a box of sugar arrived from New Orleans, and he had recently ordered carpentry planes and a second polygraph, intended for Monticello. It seems likely that he would have the items shipped sometime prior to his own departure for Monticello on 23 July (Hore Browse Trist to TJ, 6 Mch.; J. P. G. Muhlenberg to TJ, 23 Mch.; Thomas Storm to TJ, 28 Mch.; Peter Lenox to TJ, 26 May; TJ to James Dins more, 13 June; TJ to Charles Willson Peale, 14 June; Invoice from Henry Ingle, 10 July; TJ to Jacob Crowninshield, 21 July).
Petition of Thomas Duffy (Thomas Rustic) Alexandria July 23d. 1804.
The Petition of Thomas Rustic of the County of Fairfax, Humbly Sheweth, That your Petitioner is confined in the Jail in Alexandria in the District of Columbia, for a fine of seventy Dollars which he is unable to pay, and has a Distressed family who have nothing to subsist on; wishing to be released from Prison in order that he may be enabled to do something to Keep them from starving; there fore hopes that your Honor will take it into your Consideration, it is upwards of Four months since they and myself have been in this lamentable situation, and as I have a fathers feelings wish to do every thing for the support 137
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of my family, and therefore humbly prays that, in tender Consideration of the Premises, that your Petitioner may be released from Prison, by order of your Honor, And your Petitioner shall ever pray &c. Thomas Rustic We the Subscribers of the Town of Alexandria, respectfully certify to the President of the U. States, that Thomas Rustic who was in dicted & convicted by the name of Thomas Rustic alias Duffy, is in very poor & destitute circumstances, and altogether unable to pay the fine & fees, adjudged against him on his conviction;—that he has a wife & children entirely destitute of support;—so that his commit ment, upon the Terms of being discharged on paying his fine & fees, is likely to prolong his imprisonment to an indefinite period;—that part of his sentence, inflicting the punishment of fifteen stripes has been already executed; it is therefore submitted to the President of the United States that it cannot further conduce to the advancement of public Justice, to Enforce the demand of the United States for the fine & fees against a pauper who has neither the means nor the prospect of procuring the requisite funds for the satisfaction of the Demand.— Alexandria 23 July 1804. W: Jones Jr. Chs. Alexander Francis Peyton John Hooff Edm: J: Lee L Summers Tho. Swann Alexr Smith John Dixon William Reed James Dunn Alexr Latimer August 1st. 1804 We the Undersigned Judges of the Circuit Court of the district of Columbia are Satisfied of the Truth of the facts Certified respecting the Petition of Thomas Rustic—They Consider that, on account of his inability to Pay the fines and Costs Standing against him his Peti tion is reasonable, And that there is not any necessity for his further Confinement—They therefore respectfully recommend to the Presi dent of the United States to remit the said fines and discharge the Petitioner from imprisonment. W Kilty W. Cranch. N Fitzhugh 138
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[Order by TJ:] Aug. 5. 1804. Let a pardon issue
Th: Jefferson
RC (DNA: RG 59, GPR); at head of text: “To the Honorable Thomas Jefferson Esquire, President of the United States of America”; petition in Duffy’s (Rustic’s) hand; testimonial in Jones’s hand, signed by all; judges’ recommendation in Wil liam Kilty’s hand, signed by Kilty, William Cranch, and Nicholas Fitzhugh (see Kilty to TJ, 1 Aug.); endorsed by TJ as re ceived 26 July with notation “petn” and so recorded in SJL, where TJ recorded it as received from “Fairfx jail.” Enclosed in TJ to Kilty, 27 July. Court records identified Thomas Duffy, who also used the name Thomas Rustic, as an Alexandria laborer. The court had
found him guilty of stealing, in Novem ber 1802, in company with another man and with “force and Arms,” a rope cable valued at $15. For that offense he was fined $1 and received 15 lashes in a public whipping (in DNA: RG 59, GPR). For other offenses that increased the fines and costs of prosecution for which Duffy was being held, see Kilty and Fitzhugh to TJ, 26 Oct. On 4 Sep., TJ granted a pardon to Duffy, “or by whatsoever other name he may be known or detained,” with remis sion of the fine and costs of the conviction for larceny (FC in Lb in DNA: RG 59, GPR).
Contract for Purchase of John Freeman William Baker to Thomas Jefferson Recorded March 8th. 1809 at the request of Negro John In pursuance of the annexed power of attorney Know all men by these presents that I Philip Thomas Baker of the district of Columbia and County of Washington for and in consideration of the sum of four hundred dollars, money of the United States to me in hand paid by Thomas Jefferson at or before the sealing and delivery of these pres ents the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, have granted bar gained and sold, and by these presents do grant bargain and sell unto the said Thomas Jefferson his executors Administrators and assigns a negroe man by the name of John, at this time in the service of the aforesaid Thomas Jefferson, and is the person alluded to in the sub joined power of attorney, To have and to hold the said negroe John, to the aforesaid Thomas Jefferson, his executors administrators & assigns for and during the term of eleven years from the date hereof and no longer, at the end and expiration of the aforesaid Term of eleven years—I Philip Thomas Baker in pursuance of the authority vested in me by the annexed power of attorney by these presents do liberate manumit and set free, the aforesaid negroe John, to be effected according to the true intent and meaning of the power of attorney 139
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hereunto subjoined, and not otherwise, that is to say—The meaning of these presents are that the aforesaid Negroe John shall belong to, and be the property of the aforesaid Thomas Jefferson his executors administrators and assigns, for and during the term of eleven years, and that after the expiration of the aforesaid term of eleven years, the said negro John shall cease to be the property of the said Thomas Jefferson, and of all other persons, and shall be free and that the said Thomas Jefferson purchases, the said negroe John upon this condi tion, and upon no other and the said Philip Thomas Baker as attor ney for William Baker, for myself my heirs, executors administrators and assigns, the said negroe man John to the aforesaid Thomas Jefferson, his executors administrators and assigns against every per son or persons whatsoever, will warrant & forever defend by these presents—In witness whereof I have hereunto set hand, and affixed my seal, this twenty third day of July in the year of our lord, one thousand eight hundred & four P T Baker seal Witness John Oakley District of Columbia County of Washington sct. Be it remembered that, on this twenty third day of July, in the year Eighteen hundred and four, before me, the subscriber a justice of the peace aforesaid personally appears P T Baker named in the annexed power of attor ney, and acknowledges the aforegoing instrument of writing to be his act and deed and that the negroe therein mentioned is the right title and property, of the aforesaid Thomas Jefferson during the term of eleven years, according to the true intent & meaning thereof & of the power of attorney thereto, annexed acknowledged before,— John Oakley To all whom these presents shall come, Know ye, that I have em powered and by these presents constitute ordain & appoint my son Philip Thomas Baker, my lawful attorney in fact to sell convey and lawfully make over to any person my negroe man John, now in the service of the president of the United States, for and during the term of eleven years, from the day he shall be sold and no longer, and my said attorney is authorised and required, to enter into such covenant with the purchaser, as shall secure the said negroe John his emanci pation, at the expiration of eleven years aforementioned, and my said attorney is hereby empowered, to do all things in the premises that I might or could do was I personally present. Given under my hand this 10th. day of July 1804. Wm Baker Witness Mary Hoxon True Copy from the original
Wm A Burwell 140
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This is to certify and declare, that this paper contains, true copies of two deeds, the Originals of which are in my possession which deeds are hereby assented to ratified and confirmed, and the said negro man John therein named, is hereby declared to be entitled to his freedom, on the 22nd day of July, which shall be in the year, one thousand eight hundred & fifteen given under my hand, this 6th day of October 1804 Th: Jefferson Witness William A Burwell Tr (DNA: RG 351, District of Colum bia Deed Book, 9:302; entirely in a clerk’s hand). john: that is, John Freeman, owned by Dr. William Baker, but hired out to TJ since 1801. For Freeman’s request that TJ purchase him, see Freeman to TJ, [18 Apr. 1804]. On 28 June, Baker wrote a brief letter to John Barnes: “Please let John have the Eight dollars due the 4th July next for his hire. If the president wishes to purchase him I will take 500 Dollars for him but He must be free at the end of Eleven years.” On 2 July, Free man acknowledged receipt of the eight dollars (RC in MHi; receipt written at foot of text by Barnes, signed by Freeman; endorsed by Barnes; endorsed by TJ: “Baker Wm. receipt for wages of John Freeman to July 4. 04.”). When TJ retired from the presidency in 1809, he sold Freeman to James Madi son under the condition that Freeman was to be set free in 1815 (Freeman to TJ, 2 Mch 1809; rs, 1:156). Freeman reconfirmed his emancipa tion on 22 Oct. 1827, after the city of Washington passed an act requiring that resident free blacks register “satisfactory evidence of their title to freedom.” Free
man’s record entry, signed by district court clerk William Brent, certified that “the written abstract of a Bill of sale from Wm. Baker to Thomas Jefferson is cor rectly taken from the Land Record within mentioned, and that the certificate signed Thomas Jefferson is correctly taken from the said Record—and I further certify that the Bearer hereof John a black man about forty six years of age five feet seven inches high, straight and well made, with two small scars on his forehead, no other perceivable marks or scars, very pleasing countenance, has been proved to me by John H. Baker to be the same man men tioned in the within extract and certifi cate” (MS in DLC: Carter G. Woodson Collection; Andrew Rothwell, Laws of the Corporation of the City of Washington, to the End of the Thirtieth Council—June, 1833 [Washington, D.C., 1833], 1969). mary hoxon: actually Mary M. Hox ton, a Prince George County neighbor whose husband was an acquaintance of William Baker (Trenton Federalist, 6 June 1803; National Intelligencer, 18 Feb., 27 Dec. 1823; Vol. 34:208n). A signed original of William Baker’s power of at torney with her signature is in DLC: Carter G. Woodson Collection.
From Albert Gallatin Sir Treasury Department 23 July 1804 I have the honour to enclose the copy of a letter from Isaac Neuf ville, by which it appears that his father, the Commissioner of loans for South Carolina, is so indisposed as to be unable to transact the business of his office. It would seem, from the want of any provision on that subject, that in case of a sickness which does not permit the 141
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Commr. of loans to sign his name, the business of his office remains suspended. In this instance the advanced age of Mr Neufville does not leave great hopes of his recovering so far as to be able to resume his official functions. I have the honour to be Sir with the highest respect Your most obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Presi dent of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Depart ment on 28 July and “Neufville” and so recorded in SJL with notation “Commr Loans.” Enclosure: Isaac Neufville to Gal latin, 3 July, explaining that his father, John Neufville, is confined by fever and
unable to perform the duties of his office; seeking advice as to the propriety of con tinuing official operations under his own signature until his father recovers; and giving assurances that he has been an as sistant in the office since its inception and is versed in its routine (Tr in same).
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir New York 23 July 1804 I have this day written to you an official letter communicating the incapacity of ——— Neufville Commr. of loans for South Carolina. As he is past eighty years of age there can be no hope of his recovery, and the business of his office ought not to remain long suspended. Per haps some applications have already been made to you. From that State I have but three names on my file as applicants for office vizt D’Oyley, ——— Mulligan, & Edward Croft. With the two first you are sufficiently acquainted; to the second, however, (Mulligan) there is a strong objection, a suit being now pending against him as collec tor of the excise for duties on spirits which, he says, he has not col lected, but which he certainly ought to have collected; the amount 7 or 8 thd. dollars. E. Croft is the gentleman who at last undertook & with much difficulty has completed the assessment of the first divi sion of South Carolina; a business of great labour and no profit and which, for so long a time, no one would undertake. He has, therefore a kind of claim on Government. Neither of those three Gentlemen had applied for this particular office, but had made general applica tions. I have requested Mr Duval, to whom, in order to avoid delays, I have referred Mr Neufville’s letter, to write to you his decision and whether the business of the office remained necessarily suspended. If the son may be legally authorised to act you will have time to make further enquiries. With great respect & attachment Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin 142
2 3 J U LY 1 8 0 4 RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; en dorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 28 July and so recorded in SJL with notation “D’Oyley, Mulligan, Croft”; also endorsed by TJ: “De Neufville.”
From Constantine S. Rafinesque Sir. Washington 23rd July 1804 An excursion of a few days, I took into Virginia the day after hav ing had the honor of being presented to you, prevented me from call ing again upon you before this day; when I heard you had departed for Monticello I therefore take the liberty of adressing you this Letter for the purpose of conveying you, at least, a small parcell of the seeds of the Jeffersonia binata, I intended to have presented you with, at my second interview, together with one dry capsul of the plant for a spec imen of its fruit. Wishing they may grow with you, I remain with the sincerest esteem—Sir Your most obedt Servt. C. S. Rafinesque The Jeffersonia binata was called formerly Podophyllum diphyllum by Linneus and was quite lately named J. bartoni by Michaux (in his flora borealiAmericana) but Dr Barton’s name being the best suited is to be retained— I am collecting materials and informations for a compleat flora of the middle atlantic States, my interview with you having been so short, I have been prevented from asking you if it was in your power to add any of either to my already extensive stock of them; any thing new in that way and in whatever relates in the least to native plants would be gratefully received and acknowledged by Yr anew Obt. St. RC (ViW: TuckerColeman Collection); at foot of first page, below signature: “T.I.Y.P.” (for “turn over if you please,” a translation of T.S.V.P., “tournez s’il vous plait”); postscript on verso; at foot of text: “C. S. Rafinesque—Care, Mr. L. Tar ascon Philadelphia”; endorsed by TJ as received 28 July and so recorded in SJL. Constantine Samuel Rafinesque (1783 1840) was a Turkishborn naturalist of GermanFrench descent. He grew up mostly in Italy and France and emigrated to the United States in 1802, becoming a clerk in a Philadelphia mercantile firm. Beginning in the summer of 1803, he made an extended botanical tour of Vir ginia, Maryland, and the District of Co
lumbia and visited Senator Robert Wright of Maryland, who wrote a letter of intro duction for him to the president. Rafi nesque moved to Italy in 1805, residing in Sicily for ten years and actively classifying plants and animals. In November 1806, he was appointed an agent for Abraham Gibbs, the American consul in Palermo. Upon his return to the United States in 1815, he further developed his own classi fication system, published extensively, and continued to travel to collect specimens. He became a professor of botany and natural history at Transylvania Univer sity in Kentucky in 1819 and thereafter frequently inquired of TJ about similar employment at the University of Virginia (anb; Rafinesque, A Life of Travels and
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2 3 J U LY 1 8 0 4 Researches in North America and the South of Europe [Philadelphia, 1836], 21; Gibbs to Madison, 10 Nov. 1806, in DNA: RG 59, CD, Palermo; Edwin M. Betts, “The Correspondence Between Constantine Samuel Rafinesque and Thomas Jeffer son,” APS, Proceedings, 87, pt. 5 [1944], 36880; Charles Boewe, The Life of C. S. Rafinesque: A Man of Uncommon Zeal [Philadelphia, 2011], 2439, 46; Wright to TJ, 31 May 1804).
jeffersonia binata: Benjamin Smith Barton, in a paper read to the American Philosophical Society in May 1792, de scribed an American wildflower whose distinct genus seemed to merit a new name. Barton named the flower for TJ in recognition of his knowledge of natural history (Betts, Garden Book, 1723; rs 1:578n).
From Robert Smith Sir, Balt. July 23 1804 From the enclosed letter you will perceive that the Conduct of young Cooper has been as was apprehended before his appointment. His attrocious Conduct has not been concealed from me, and I have had it in contemplation for some time to submit to you the propriety of revoking his Warrant. It has however taken a better Course, as it will now be less painful to the father. But by the bye I have been ex pecting such a letter from Mr Cooper; and this expectation has re strained me from laying before you the misconduct of the son. In the posthumous papers and in the apotheosis of Genl Hamilton will not every person see the solicitude to produce a dramatic effect? Will not every person of delicacy be shocked at perceiving such pal pable stageTrick practiced on an Occasion which in itself is really mournful?—But these jugglers deceive none but themselves. No other effect will be produced than the placing of a certain gentleman some what lower in the estimation of mankind than he had previously been. My letters from Massachussetts assure me that our friends are at this time making the greatest possible exertions to obtain in that state a majority at the approaching election of Electors and that they are in high expectations of success. Among the confident is Doctor Eustis— And he, you know, is rather of a desponding cast. With the greatest respect Your Obed Servt. Rt Smith RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 26 July and “Cooper” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Thomas Cooper to Smith, Philadelphia, 16 July, requesting that Smith revoke the midshipman’s commis sion of Thomas Cooper, Jr., due to his “habits of Intemperance” (RC in same).
Prior to the son’s appointment, TJ instructed Thomas Cooper to caution him about the necessity of sobriety among the country’s naval officers (Vol. 40:1545). a certain gentleman: Aaron Burr.
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From Pierre Auguste Adet Nevers le 5 Thermidor An 12 de la République [i.e. 24 July 1804]
Monsieur Le Président permettés moi de vous Remercier de La lettre pleine d’obligeance et d’amitié que vous avez daigné m’ecrire par M. Monroe. je ne saurois vous exprimer avec quel plaisir je l’ai lu avec quel plaisir je la relis encore, avec quel soin je la conserve. c’est pour moi un Thrésor dont je ne pourrois me séparer. vous devez être convaincu combien je re grette que les destins n’aient pas reglé ma Residence aux Etats unis sur Le temps de votre suprème magistrature, j’aurois été trop heu reux, et il n’est pas permis à L’homme de Jouir de tant de Bonheur sur La terre. La vie n’est qu’une Longue école de patience et de Ré signation, et je commence à croire que L’homme le plus heureux est celui qui sait souffrir avec le plus de courage; quoiqu’il en soit il faut achever notre Carriere ici bas suivant La volonte du sort. vous serez etonnés de m’entendre tenir ce Language, mais vous me comprendrés parfaitement quand vous saurez que depuis mon départ des Etats unis j’ai perdu des amis qui m’etoient chers, et qu’une grande partie de ma fortune m’a été enlevée par une banqueroute, et qu’avec elle j’ai perdu L’espoir de pouvoir executer le projet que j’avois formé de me retirer des affaires dans quelques années pour me Livrer entierement à La Culture des sciences. c’est sans doute La plus grande contrariété que je pusse éprouver, mais je tache de La supporter sans murmure; c’est Le moyen de La Rendre moins penible. quoiqu’entierement Livré aux affaires je ne neglige pas cependant tout à fait les sciences, je viens de Rediger par ordre du gouvernement des Elements de chimie à L’usage des Lycées. vous savez que ce sont des maisons d’education oú 6,000 jeunes gens sont Elevés aux frais de l’etat. j’ai cherché à suivre un plan plus méthodique que celui que L’on a constamment adopté jusqu’a ce jour, j’espere y avoir reussi. au reste vous en jugerés. j’aurai sous peu L’honneur de vous en adresser un exemplaire. cette Lettre vous sera remise, Monsieur Le Président, par M. Roux Bordier de genêve qui se Rend aux Etats unis dans le dessein de s’y Etablir. permettés moi de solliciter vos bontés pour Lui. il appartient à une famille très recommandable, il est le beàu frere d’un membre de l’ancien gouvernement de genêve que j’aime beaucoup. il a Les quali tés qui rendent un homme estimable. à ces differents titres j’ose espe rer que vous L’accueillerés avec bienveillance. j’espere aussi que vous daignerés vous rappeler quelquefois un homme qui fait profession de 145
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vous aimer, et de Vous Respecter, autant que vous le merités. pouvoir occuper quelques instants votre pensée, n’est pas un sort commun à tous Les hommes et on doit être fier quand on L’a en partage. veuillez Monseiur Le President agréer l’hommage de l’inviolable at tachement et du profond Respect avec Le quel je suis Monsieur Le Président Votre très humble Et très obéissant Serviteur P. A. Adet e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Nevers, 5 Thermidor Year 12 of Mister President, the Republic [i.e. 24 July 1804] Allow me to thank you for the kind, friendly letter you had the goodness to send with Mr. Monroe. I cannot express the pleasure I took in reading and now rereading it, and the care with which I keep it. It is a treasure I could not part with. You must understand how much I regret that destiny has not allowed me to live in the United States during your presidency. I would have been so happy, but human beings are not allowed to enjoy this much happi ness on earth. Life is but a long schooling in patience and resignation, and I am beginning to believe that the happiest person is the one who knows how to smile most courageously. In any case, we must fulfill our mission on earth in accord with the will of destiny. You will be surprised to hear me speak this way, but you will understand perfectly when you learn that since leaving the United States I have lost dear friends and a large part of my fortune to bank ruptcy. I thus lost hope of being able to fulfill my plan to retire from business in a few years and devote myself entirely to science. This is undoubtedly the greatest hardship that can befall me but I try to endure it in silence, which is the best way to make it less painful. Although I am fully involved in business, I am not totally neglecting sci ence. At the request of the government, I have just written a book for second ary schools. As you know, these are the establishments where 6,000 young people are educated at government expense. My goal was to introduce a more rigorous format than the one that is currently in use. I hope to have succeeded. You will be able to judge for yourself, since I will soon have the honor of send ing you a copy. Mister President, this letter will be delivered to you by M. Roux Bordier of Geneva, who is traveling to the United States with the intention of set tling there. Allow me to ask your kindness toward him. He comes from a worthy family. His brotherinlaw, whom I like very much, was a member of the former government of Geneva. He has the qualities that make a man admirable. For all these reasons I dare hope that you will welcome him gen erously. I also hope you will deign to remember a man who never fails to esteem and respect you, as you deserve. It is not given to most men to be able to occupy a few moments of your thoughts and one should take pride in doing so. Please accept, Mister President, the homage of my unwavering attachment and the deep respect with which I am your very humble and obedient servant. P. A. Adet
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2 4 J U LY 1 8 0 4 RC (DLC); on Adet’s printed letterhead stationery as prefect of the department of Nièvre, with blanks for date filled by Adet; at head of text: “À Monsieur Jeffer son président des Etats unis d’amérique”; endorsed by TJ as received 25 July 1805 and so recorded in SJL. la lettre pleine d’obligeance et d’amitié: Vol. 39:4512. à l’usage des lycées: Adet’s chem istry textbook, Leçons élémentaires de chimie, à l’usage des lycées, was published in Paris in 1804 (Sowerby, No. 834). By a
law of May 1802, France instituted a na tionwide system of upperlevel secondary schools and provided for the education of 6,400 boys (Tulard, Dictionnaire Napoléon, 11013; Histoire de l’education, 89 [2001], 1223). Jacques Rouxbordier did not move to the United States (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 9:3). beàu frere: prob ably Jean Lazare De la Planche (Recueil généalogique Suisse, 1st ser., 2 [1907], 4212; Marc Peter, Genève et la révolution, 2 vols. [192150], 2:8, 13, 30, 378).
From Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Museum July 24th. 1804. The enclosed pencases I flatter myself will be found very conve nient, the slits are made longer for the staypin to moove a greater distance, & therefore will require less attention to the length of the quill. on reconsidering the last paragraph of my letter of the 22d, I have thought that a sketch in addition would have better il lustrated Mr. Latrobes improvement of the cover of the Polygraph, & a few lines, such as the following will suffice. The Cover capable of being removed wholly, and when placed, secured to the back part with hooks &c, and when the front part is down, locked at the bottom. Shut up.
The front opened has this, not unsightly appearance, for a Public office, and that boxed top, conve nient to keep papers from being blown away. We are much pleased with the profiles done by my Son Raphaelle. I wish he had also taken some of Mr. Madison and of Mr. Gallitine— but he had no other object then, for 147
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his journey to Washington. I am greatly obliged to you for the curious Lizard of Louisiana, which it certainly is, and not a Toad. It shall not be exhibited untill the osage Indians are on their return. I have not yet had time to examine Authors to know if it has ever been discribed, if not, I mean to give a drawing of it to the Philosophical Society for their next Volume, A few lines of your Pen of such infor mation on it as may be in your power, will I know, be highly accept able to the Society. I vallue the few specimens of Minerals which you presented to the Museum when I was at Washington, and if you can conveniently find and send me, a memorandom where found, it will enable us to note it in the Catalogue. accept assurance of my regard, and believe me your friend C Wn: Peale RC (DLC); at foot of text: “His Excel lency Thomas Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 28 July and so re corded in SJL. PoC (Lb in PPAmP: PealeSellers Papers). For the horned toad that accompanied the Osage delegation to Washington, see
William Clark and Meriwether Lewis to TJ, 18 May. Peale did contribute a drawing of the lizard to the American Philosophical Society, but possibly from a specimen obtained the following year (Peale, Papers, v. 2, pt. 2:743).
From John Boanson Manchester 25th July
Thos Jefferson 7th. Month. 1804. Old England I have had a struggle on the propriety of addressing thee but a reflection of thy very Amiable & Virtuous Character which is admired by all persons even Here has remov’d my Doubts—Thou wilt find by the enclos’d, that I am a near Relation of Colo. Pickering, whom I expect thou may personally know, at least have heard of, for his ser vices I expect were not kept a Secret to the Cause of Freedom as it is important to me that this letter shou’d find a way to the hand of my Relation Col Pickering I have taken this liberty to request of thee to forward the same to him after reading it & Sealing it up which favor shall not be forgot by thy unknown friend and sincere admirer John Boanson RC (MHi); endorsed by TJ as received 23 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found.
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From James Cheetham Sir. New York July 25. 1804 It is unpleasant to be under the necessity of appealing to you on a subject involving the duration of my establishment, and, to a degree, the unity of the Republican party in this state; but since the necessity exists I take the liberty of troubling you with a few remarks. When I became the Editor of the Citizen, my late partner, Mr. Denniston, was extremely embarrassed in his pecuniary affairs. Like all other Republican Editors, he was discouraged, to use a mild term, during the awful period which preceded your election to the Presi dency, by our opponents; and the patronage of our friends was alto gether inadequate to the maintenance of the press. Our memorable victory in this City in the year 1800, however, turned the political Scale in our favour and gave us a right to expect, what under your auspicies we have realised, much public good. At this Joyous period the importunities of our political friends, corresponding with my own inclination, induced me to purchase one half of the establishment and to assume the exclusive direction of the press. Mr. Burr, Mr. Swart wout (the Marshal) and Mr. Gelston (the Collector) were amongst the foremost of those who urged me to the undertaking. I was prom ised by all every encouragement. I assumed the direction of the paper on the 1st. of May 1801. I ought here to remark that, previous to our election in 1800; and until the period which I shall presently name, I had been on the most friendly terms of intercourse with Mr. Burr. In June 1801. Mr. Gelston was appointed Collector. The printing business of his office netts a considerable annual sum, say $700. I flattered myself with a hope that the considerations which had in duced his appointment would have prevailed with him to give to the only Republican press in this City that support appertaining to his office and which had theretofore been carefully and uniformly imparted (by his predecessor) to those who had been warmly and invariably opposed to us as politicians. I had a double right to expect it. It was his duty, as a public officer, to give to the Republican press, devoted to the support of that very administration by which he had been dis tinguishedly promoted, all that support which was consonant to its dignity and honor. I expected it from his voluntary promises of aid previous to his appointment. When his appointment was here ascertained, I waited in person upon Mr. Gelston and represented to him the pecuniary embarrassment of the press—the cloud under which it had laboured—our expectation, 149
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and the indispensibility, of the printing business of the offices of the Government; and concluded with Soliciting that under his direction. I was promised it. Daily intercourse, however, with Mr. Burr, from my Editorial Com mencement, convinced me, in the short space of ten weeks, that he had been unfaithful and was then unsound. At the latter end of July 1801 I found that I must either abandon Mr. Burr and his associates or oppose your administration. I had no hesitation in choosing the former. It is unnecessary, here, to enter into a detail of my reasons for the choice; I have elsewhere said sufficient. Mr. Gelston had hardly time to extend the patronage of his office to my press before this seperation took place, and he was unwilling to do so after. When I relinquished Mr. Burr, Mr. Gelston and the rest of his associates abandoned me. These facts are well known here. After Communicating to two friends, and to two only, the grounds of my Conviction of Mr. Burr’s past infidelity and then disaffection, I prepared myself for that attack which has since been so successfully made. During the long and laborious controversy which succeeded, private considerations were merged in public disputation. I cared lit tle, and had less time to enquire, about my private concerns. But my inclination, the welfare of a wife and five children, and my creditors now compel me to enquire, and I find my affairs in a deplorable Situ ation. In proportion as I have laboured for the public, I have experi enced a diminution even of wonted encouragement. This, however, by me, was Anticipated; for the necessary asperity of the attack unavoid ably hazarded my establishment. From the period of my seperation from Mr. Burr to the present time, Mr. Gelston has invariably given the printing business of his office to two of our most inveterate political opponents! He has done this in the very face and defiance of repeated remonstrances. Seeing that I stood in need of his printing business (blanks &c) and that my reiterated personal applications, resumed about six months ago, were unavailing, I made, early in May last, a correct representa tion of the situation of my press and of the conduct of Mr. Gelston, to Colonel Rutgers, Mr. Broome, our Lieutenant Governor, and the Mayor of this city. These gentlemen agreed with me that his conduct was altogether without apology, and with a warmth of expression suited, as I thought, to the occasion, expressed their surprise and in dignation. In the Course of that month they had an interview with him on the subject at Col. Rutgers’s by appointment, and Mr. Gelston, in delicate terms, promised, as I understand, that; in future I should have the entire of the printing business of his office. 150
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This promise, has not, however, been fulfilled either in whole or in part. He Still continues to give his business, partly to Mr. James Oram, a British Soldier during the whole of the Revolutionary war, and now a malignant Federalist, and partly to Mr. William A. Davis, a Burrite, a character more odious among us, if possible, than that of a tory. Finding that private applications, however respectable, were un availing—that my press was on the brink of ruin, and that immediate relief was all essential to its continuance; by way of exciting public enquiry into the Cause, I advertised my establishment for Sale. This advertisement induced a private meeting of distinguished Re publicans from every ward of this city who, by committee, requested me to wait upon them in person. I did so, and in answer to their en quiries gave them at large a statement of the situation of my press and of Mr. Gelston’s hostile Conduct towards it. They unanimously agreed to appoint a Committee to wait upon and remonstrate with him on the subject. The committee waited upon Mr. Gelston, and at a subsequent meet ing reported that he had promised to give me in future the whole of his printing business. This was about three weeks ago. But as Mr Gelston’s word was doubted by all present, the meeting appointed a superintending committee to enquire whether he would perform his promise, and if not to call forthwith a public meeting of the Repub licans in order to petition, respectfully, the executive of the United States for his removal. The Mayor was present at the meeting. Mr. Gelston has not fulfilled the promise which he solemnly made to the Committee, and it has therefore become a Question, one indeed which excites much sensibility, and in which there is but one opinion among our friends, whether my press is to be destroyed by his con tinuance in, or preserved by his removal from, office, and the appoint ment in his place of a Citizen more friendly to the Republican party? As Mr. Gelston is universally Known to have acted uniformly against the best and ablest friends of your administration ever Since he came into office, so perhaps there is no man amongst us who is more un popular or less respected. For various reasons which will be obvious to you I wish to avoid a public meeting. It would be a measure from which many unpleasant reflections might result. It would place in the hands of those who are opposed to the Government a formidable weapon. I Shall do every thing in my power to prevent it. But such is the warmth manifested by our friends, and excited by Mr. Gelston’s opposition to what they deem a matter of right and not of favour, that I much doubt my ability to prevent it. I feel more delicacy as it regards you than myself. If our 151
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friends were of opinion that the press Could be better managed, or with more œconomy, by any other person, I would relinquish it with out a struggle. But they are pleased to express an opinion that events of moment may occur in which I may be of service to the country. They will not permit me to dispose of the establishment. With all possible deference and the most sincere and affectionate attachment I submit this matter to your decision, with a full assur ance that, whatever it may be, it will meet with the entire approbation of your Excellency’s Most obedient And devoted Servant James Cheetham RC (DLC); at foot of text: “His Excel lency Thomas Jefferson Esq President of the United States of America”; endorsed by TJ as received 2 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. TJ asked Gallatin to meet privately with David Gelston to address his official printing contracts with two of the ad ministration’s most inveterate polit ical opponents, James Oram’s NewYork Price-Current and William A. Davis’s Morning Chronicle (TJ to Gallatin, 3 Aug.). the mayor: DeWitt Clinton.
On 26 June 1804, Cheetham included in his paper a lengthy advertisement for the sale of the American Citizen. He sarcastically noted: “A stern, inflexible Republican of industry, zeal, and ability who would support the government of the union and of the state, against the machi nations of any man or violence of any faction, is advised not to purchase. Such a man would lose his property and starve!!” A week later, on 2 July, Cheetham an nounced that he would be able to support himself financially and continue the news paper if he received exclusive printing contracts from the federal custom house and the State of New York.
From Ellen Wayles Randolph My Dear Grand Papa [before 26] July 1804 I have long wished to write to you. but would not untill I could do it myself. all the children are well except little Virginia she has been sick but is now much better adieu My Dear Grand Papa you must excuse the faults of this letter for it is the first I ever attempted to write and believe me to be your most affetionate Grand Daughter E. W Randolph RC (ViU: Coolidge Deposit); partially dated; addressed in Martha Jefferson Ran dolph’s hand: “Thomas Jefferson Presi dent of the U.S. Washington”; endorsed by TJ; recorded in SJL as received 26 July. Unrelated note on address sheet also in Martha Jefferson Randolph’s hand: “Voi amante qui vedete quanto amor mi sia d’affanno,” a loose rendering of a line from Antonio Salieri’s opera Il Talismano,
act 2, scene 12, roughly translated as “You all who love can see how love tor ments me.” do it myself: Ellen, seven years old when she wrote the letter printed above, had previously written to TJ with the help of her mother; see Vol. 35:589 and Vol. 36:656 (Bear, Family Letters, 9).
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From Gabriel Duvall Treasury Department, Comptroller’s Office,
Sir, July 26. 1804. The Secretary of the Treasury has referred to me a letter of the 3. instant from Isaac Neufville of Charleston, Son of John Neufville Commissioner of Loans in South Carolina, a copy of which it appears has been forwarded to you. The letter states that Mr. Neufville the Commissioner, is incapable, through sickness, to transact the business of the Office, and that the duties are performed by the Son, who requests to be informed if this is proper.— In compliance with the request of the Secretary, I submit to you my opinion.— The Commissioner of Loans derives his authority from the United States and is their Agent. His commission authorises him to perform certain duties, and those duties must be executed by himself and not by deputy.—A trust and confidence is reposed in him, which cannot be transferred to another. I do not mean that no part of his duty can be performed by deputy; but all official signatures and certificates must be made by himself.— I have no information of the nature of his indisposition, nor how long it is probable his inability may continue.— With sentiments of the highest respect, I am Sir, Your Obedt. Servt. G. Duvall. RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Duvall; at foot of text: “Thomas Jef ferson Esquire”; endorsed by TJ as re ceived 28 July and “De Neufville” and so
recorded in SJL. FC (Lb in DNA: RG 217, ROFCMLS); in a clerk’s hand. from isaac neufville: see Gallatin’s first letter to TJ of 23 July.
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir New York 26 July 1804 I enclose Mahlon Dickerson’s answer by which it appears that he will accept the office of dist. attorney at New Orleans, but that a few weeks will be necessary to close his professional business in Philadel phia. I answer him that it would be eligible that he should be in N. Orleans the first week in October but at all events to arrange his busi ness so as to be there in the course of that month. It will be necessary to issue a commission in his favour before you return to Washington. 153
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The enclosed letter of Mr Meigs confirms the account of the death of Griffin Greene collector of the customs at Marietta, and the propri ety of appointing his son Philip who had already been recommended. Two commissions should issue vizt as collector of the district of Marietta and as Inspector of the revenue for the port of Marietta. The enclosed recommendations in favour of Benjamin Rue as keeper of the light house at Cape Henlopen are very strong. But the rever end Abraham Hargis is the present keeper who once wrote you re questing an encrease of salary, has not yet resigned. He was warmly supported in that application for encrease of salary by Govr. Hall & by Mr Rodney, both of whom were still very lately his friends. The fact is that a child was lately sworn to him by a neighbour’s daughter which, on account of his clerical character, has rendered him so ob noxious that it has been expected that either a general application would be made for his removal or that he would resign. In case of either, Cap. Rue’s application, unless discountenanced by the Dela ware republicans will deserve consideration. In those appointments there is no commission, but only a letter from the Secretary of the Treasury communicating that the President has appointed. I also enclose a letter from J. Mansfield respecting Benjamin Tup per, and I will thank you when you return it to give me the christian name & direction of Mr Russel of Rhode Island, whose letter on that subject I have left in Washington. I wish when Mr Mansfield makes recommendations that he would mention the politics of those he rec ommends. Those of Mr Tupper were unknown till the receipt of this letter; and he ought when he recommended him to have stated that he was a clerk in the Surveyor General’s office in order that the ex ecutive might judge of the compatibility of the two employments. It must be recollected that the Surveyor General has, by the appoint ment of district surveyors & of assistant surveyors a very extensive & influential patronage. Collector Armistead’s letter is enclosed only for information. We have no arrival nor local news in this city. With sincere respect and attachment Your obedient Servt. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); addressed: “Thomas Jef ferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Trea sury Department on 2 Aug. and “Dick inson. Greene. Rue. Tupper” and so re corded in SJL. Enclosures: (1) Mahlon Dickerson to Gallatin, Philadelphia, 24 July; acknowledging Gallatin’s of 18 July,
Dickerson mentions his recent confine ment to bed because of a “severe bilious fever”; he is willing to accept his appoint ment as U.S. attorney at New Orleans, but notes that he requires “several weeks” to wrap up his affairs in Philadelphia; he is grateful for the president’s confidence in him and likewise thanks Gallatin (RC
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2 6 J U LY 1 8 0 4 in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Dickerson Mahlon. Atty N.O.”). (2) Jared Mansfield to Gallatin, Marietta, 9 July; in answer to Gallatin’s of 13 June, Mans field indicates that Benjamin Tupper, the recently appointed land office receiver at Marietta, Ohio, is not the person Gallatin believed to have been in France, but someone who has lived in the area since adolescence; Tupper has been employed as a clerk to the late surveyor, his father inlaw Rufus Putnam; although recog nized as “a faithful, industrious, & deserv ing man,” he is a Federalist, and “some republicans have supposed that he ought not on that Account to be employed”; Mansfield has regarded only the “neces sary qualifications” in making his recom mendation and adds that neither Tupper nor anyone else in the area would know anything about the “transactions of the Mr Tupper to whom you allude” (RC in NHi: Gallatin Papers; endorsed by TJ:
“Tupper Benjamin. Reciever of Marietta. Mansfield to A. Gallatin”). Other enclo sures not found. For the request by abraham hargis for higher pay, see Vol. 40:1045. On 18 June, Caesar A. rodney wrote to Gal latin, enclosing a communication from David Hall concerning Hargis. Alluding to the “unfortunate affair,” Hall wrote that Hargis’s “enemies” were “persecut ing” him in a manner “unbecoming the Character of Christians,” and that he hoped Rodney would advise Gallatin that “no step be effectual to his removal . . . without his consent.” Rodney in turn hoped that Gallatin would heed Hall’s advice (NHi: Gallatin Papers, 9:7601). letter on that subject: Jonathan Russell apparently provided information on a “swindler” named Benjamin Tupper (Gallatin to TJ, 11 June).
From John B. Prevost Sir N York July 26h. 1804 I received last evening the note you did me the honor to write com municating your intentions to confer upon me the appointment of Judge of the Superior Court of the Orleans territory—It has for some time past been my wish to remove thither provided I could take with me that approbation of the Executive of the U states which this mark of its confidence indicates—You will therefore be pleased Sir to accept the assurance of my sincere acknowledgments and of every exertion to render myself useful to my Country in the discharge of its impor tant duties—I have the honor to be with great respect Your Most obedt & Huml sert J B Prevost RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “The President of the U states”; en dorsed by TJ as received 2 Aug. and so recorded in SJL.
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note: TJ to Prevost, 20 July.
From Stephen Cathalan, Jr. Sir Marseilles the 27th. July 1804— I had the honor of acknowledging you receipt of your Kind re spected favor of the 20th. Novr. last—This is to inclose you a Copy of a Letter from Mr. Jourdan & fils of Tain, in answer to mine about the wines of hermitage, to which I beg your reference—I am Send ing a Copy of the Same to Senator P. Butler for his Government, as I cannot procure him white virgin wine, before next winter & in the interim I may receive your and his further orders. As soon as I will be favoured with your Commands, I will execute them with punctuality and attention— I have not received any other Letters from you, Sir, Since the afore mentioned Copy.— I Join with all my Family in our best wishes, for your good health, and your reelection in the Presidency—I beg the almighty to preserve you happy days and long life, which are wholy Consecrated for the wellfare and the prosperity of the united States, under your Fatherly Government I have the honor to be with the respect Sir, Your most obedt. Servant Stephen Cathalan Junr Dupl (MHi); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Cathalan; at head of text: “Copy”; at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqre. President of the United States at Wash ington”; endorsed by TJ as received 20 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. RC (same); endorsed by TJ as received 25 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Jourdan & fils to Cathalan, Tain, 1 July, regretting that only the three bottles of virgin white wine met TJ’s approval; the firm is led to think that the president does not like older vintages but prefers them “a little Liquor,” that is, sweeter; they can supply Pierce Butler with virgin white wine next winter and could also provide him with “Straw colour hermitage wine much bet ter than that,” their father being the only
grower capable of producing such wine in that country; they will pack the wine in earthen bottles that weigh less and are less liable to break than glass, and can also send Butler “Some other precious Wines of our Cellars that could fit very well in america”; they mention an upcoming ship ment of very fine red Hermitage wines; they will take “every Caution in our power to fulfill the orders which you will Con fide to us in order that you be thanked for it and we thereby honored,” but add that currently there are not more than 80 to 100 casks of firstclass white wine, be cause of its popularity in England and Ireland and the great care their father “takes in the Vintage time” (Tr in same; in English; in a clerk’s hand).
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To William Kilty Sir Monticello July 27. 04. Will you be so good as to certify to me, and to ask your associates to certify the op[inion] of the members of the court who met on the trial of Thom[as Rustic], on whose behalf the inclosed petition is presented, as to the reasonableness of his petition, and the term of imprisonment beyond [which, in] their judgment, he ought not to be restrained for the fine and fees due to the US. and to inclose the same to me at this place? Accept my salutations & respects. Th: Jefferson PrC (DNA: RG 59, LAR, 6:367); faint; at foot of text: “The honble Judge Kelty”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso. Enclosure: Petition of Thomas Duffy (Thomas Rus tic), 23 July.
To James Madison Th:J. to J.M. July 27. 04. I inclose you Story’s oration that you may be enabled to take his measure. be so good as to return it. I retain the letter of E. Livingston urging the validity of Baron Bastrop’s monopoly of the Indian com merce for 10. years, because I presume it may be proper to lay it be fore Congress. the postmaster at Washington writes me that during our recess the post will come 3. times a week, the 3d. being extra for this particular term, to wit, extra. permanent permanent leave Washington Sunday. Tuesday. Thursday at 7. P.M. arrive at Milton Tuesday Thursday Saturday 6. P.M. leave Milton Wednesday Friday Sunday 4. A.M. arrive at Washington Thursday Saturday Monday 8. P.M. Affectionate salutations. RC (DLC: Madison Papers, Rives Col lection). PrC (DLC). Recorded in SJL with notation “Baron Bastrop.” Enclo sure: Joseph Story, An Oration, Pronounced at Salem (see Jacob Crownin shield to TJ, 14 July). letter of e. livingston: probably a missing letter from Edward Livingston
to Madison, 16 June, regarding Baron Bastrop’s claim (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:329, 526). A letter from the postmaster at washington, dated 24 July, is recorded in SJL as received 26 July, but has not been found. Thomas Munroe served in the position since 1799 (Vol. 37:603n).
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From Thomas Law Sir. Washington July 28. 1804. As the enclosed replies of Mr. Snodgrass to questions on naval architecture confirm your sentiments of the propriety of covering the frigates from Sun & rain, I take the liberty of enclosing them for your perusal. I remain With respect Your most Obedt. Humble Servant. Thomas Law. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 2 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. Enclo sure not found, but see below. Gabriel snodgrass, the late Surveyor of the British East India Company, rec ommended in 1795 that the British gov
ernment construct ships under cover, “by which means the ships would last from eighteen to twenty years, instead of only eleven years and three quarters, which is said by the Navy Board to be the average duration of ships of the present Navy” (Naval Chronicle, 5 [1801], 130).
From Charles M. Poor Honored Sir, No. 81 Market St. Bal[. . .] July 28th. 1804 Please excuse the liberty of a person who is so little Known as my self, in presuming to address the President of the United States, on a subject, which will perhaps, meet the disapprobation, and deserved neglect, which no doubt you will think my forwardness deserves— but relying upon the liberality of Sentiment, and the friendly disposi tion to forgive the errings of human nature, which have been informed is the Characteristic of our Chief Magistrate, hope he will forgive the intrusion—being a young Man, and not having Capital Sufficient to engage in Merchantile business, request your patronage, to a small an unimportant Situation in the Service of the United States, in a civil capacity—Should such an one be at the disposal of the President, and he not deem me entirely unworthy his Notice—the pleasure of receiv ing a trifling trust under the Government of the United State, the Government under which am proud of being a subject can be as easily anticipated by yourself, as if expressed— I presume to claim no favour, or Merit to your patronage—my fam ily is not wealthy, neither is it accustomed to the circles of the great, but honored Sir, believe it to be Respectable—Should the request be disregarded (which have not much Reason to expect otherwise,) beg the favour of its never [be]ing Known to any but the President—and shall continue with the highest Respect to yourself, and a firm Sup porter of the Administration of this favoured land— 158
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I am honored Sir with the highest esteem and due Respect Your obet. hml. Sert. Chals. M Poor PS. Should occasion Require, could calculate upon the Interest, of John Lambert Esqr. Lieu. Gov. of N. Jersey.—Isaac Vanhorn Esqr. Member of the H. of R. from Bucks Co. Pensa. Gen. John Barker of Philadelphia— Obt. Svt. CMP. RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); torn; at head of text: “To the President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 2 Aug. from Baltimore and “Emploimt” and so recorded in SJL. Charles M. Poor (d. 1832) served in the Maryland militia and was a solicitor of benevolent donations for the poor in Baltimore’s Eighth Ward. Sometime in 1812, he moved to York County, Pennsyl vania, where he served as postmaster for
York Haven and managed the hotel and company store for a flour milling com pany (George R. Prowell, History of York County, Pennsylvania, 2 vols. [Chicago, 1907], 1:9345; pmhb, 116 [1992], 303n; Table of Post Offices in the United States, with the Names of the Post-Masters [Wash ington, D.C., 1822], 89; American and Commercial Daily Advertiser, 27 Apr. 1808, 23 Jan. 1812, 14 Apr. 1812, 20 Apr. 1812; Baltimore Gazette and Daily Advertiser, 6 Nov. 1832).
To William Frederick Ast Sir Monticello July 29. 04. I recieved last night your letter of May 14. which was the first inti mation I had recieved of any demand for the fire insurance company, altho’ I am now told it has been published lately in some of the Rich mond papers. the date of the reciept renders a literal compliance with the requisition of 89. D 80 c to be paid in Richmond on the 1st. of August impracticable nor [can] I do it earlier than about the 10th. or 12th. by that time the orders I am now transmitting to Washington will produce a remittance as to messrs. Gibson & Jefferson to whom I now write to make the paiment you require as soon as they recieve the remittance. Accept my salutations and best wishes. Th: Jefferson PrC (MHi); torn and faint; at foot of text: “F. W. Ast”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso; with notations by TJ in ink on verso recording details of his 1801 pay ment to the Mutual Assurance Society, which included interest of $26.49 for late
payment and two dollars for “Stamp &c” (see also mb, 2:1048; Vol. 34:567; Vol. 35:1034). your letter: that is, William West to TJ, 14 May.
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To Alexander J. Dallas Dear Sir Monticello July 29. 04. Your favor of the 21. was recieved here the last night. I have not with me a copy of my letter of the 21st. which you quote as of the 17th. but the object of that was to inform you that1 Doctr. Franklin when he left Paris, did not leave with me a single scrip of paper, or of the pen, of any nature whatever, or any article of any kind whatsoever; and this on an explanation between ourselves, concluding he had bet ter bring every thing with him to America. William T. Franklin is certainly the person most likely to be able to give information on the subject. but all Dr. Franklin’s papers are, I suppose, in this country, either in the Secy. of state’s office or in the hands of his exrs, & if such bills of lading existed in his hands, they are probably still among his papers. Accept my friendly & respectful salutations. Th: Jefferson RC (PHi); addressed: “Alexander J. Dallas esq. Philadelphia”; franked; en dorsed by Dallas. PrC (DLC); endorsed by TJ in ink on verso.
1 TJ
here canceled “I did not.”
From John Wayles Eppes Dear Sir, Eppington July 29. 1804. I am happy to inform you that my little ones are in fine health again. Francis has recovered entirely from the complaint in his bowels and the little girl is the picture of health— I should have had the pleasure of meeting you at Monticello but Betsys youngest child has been and still continues so ill that it would be cruel to seperate her from it—She is every thing to Francis and he has become so strongly attatched to her that he could not possibly travel without her— Present me affectionately to Patsy and all around you and accept for your health the best wishes of affection Yours sincerely Jno: W: Eppes RC (ViU); endorsed by TJ as received 2 Aug. and so recorded in SJL.
she is every thing to francis: Betsy Hemings (Vol. 35:579, 580n).
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To Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Monticello July 29. 04 My last to you was of the 12th. since that I have recieved yours of the 9th. 18th. & two of the 23d. and one from mr Duval of the 26th. I had before the last dates recieved a letter from Peter Freneau in forming me that mr Neufville the father was dangerously ill, and solliciting the succession to his office1 for Isaac Neufville his son, who has in fact long done all the business of the office. that the law should not have provided for the transaction of it’s ordinary business when the incumbent is too ill to write his name, or necessarily absent, is a defect which the legislature should amend: but it would not justify the removing a man because he was too sick to do the business. I presume therefore we must wait for certain information of his death, or of his irrecoverable incapacity. of the three persons named in your letter (D’Oyley, Mulligan, & Crofts) I should prefer the former, be cause of the evidences of the confidence of the state in him, which are evidences of his being worthy: but would he accept it? the objection you mention to Mulligan is solid. Crofts, by undertaking the office of Commr. of the land tax, has acquired some title to our consideration. it might produce a hesitation balancing so respectable a recommen dation as that of Peter Freneau, but not I think the established char acter of Doyley. when you recieve & forward information of the death or irrecoverable incapacity of the present officer, be so good as to say what you think of the claims of Doyley, Crofts & Isaac Neufville. our postestablishment is as follows. leaves Washington Sundays Tuesdays & Thursday’s at 7. P.M. arrives at Milton Tuesdays Thursdays & Saturdays at 6½ P.M. leaves Milton Wednesdays Fridays & Sundays at 4. A.M. arrives at Washington Thursdays Saturdays & Mondays at 8. P.M. Accept affectionate salutations Th: Jefferson RC (NHi: Gallatin Papers); addressed: “Albert Gallatin Secretary of the Treasury New York”; franked; endorsed. Notation in SJL: “Neufville. D’Oyley, Milligan. Crofts.”
letter: Peter Freneau to TJ, 4 July. three persons named: Gallatin to TJ, 23 July (second letter). 1 Preceding
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three words interlined.
To George Jefferson Dear Sir Monticello July 29. 04. Before leaving Washington I desired mr Barnes to remit to you before Aug. 10. 700. D. to answer an order in favr. of the Smiths for 433.33 and to pay to the order of Joseph Brand with or without an order from me 250. D. having last night recieved a requisition for 89. D 80 c from the fire insurance company, I have this day desired mr Barnes to add another hundred dollars to his remittance, making it 800. D. instead of 700. out of which when recieved be pleased to pay the 89.80 to mr Ast, without a further order from me. I advise him by letter this day that you will do it. Mr. Burwell took on by the stage a bundle for me containing linen &c. which he was to ask the favor of you to forward to mr Higgin botham by the stage. if not done, be so good as to do it. the other things arrived & arriving at Richmond for me, be so good as to for ward by water, & the lowness of the river rendering that conveyance precarious, we must not wait for any particular boats, but send them by any of those from Milton which shall occur. Accept my affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson PrC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. George Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso.
A letter of this day to John Barnes was recorded in SJL but has not been found.
To Étienne Lemaire Dear Sir Monticello July 29. 1804. I find we are in immediate want of Sherry here. I will therefore thank you to pack up 240. bottles of the London Sherry you have and forward it by the first vessel from Georgetown or Alexandria to Rich mond to the Address of Gibson & Jefferson merchants of that place, marking the packages T.I. Monticello. I arrived here in good health & found my family well. I hope you will keep yourself still for the benefit of your leg. nothing but rest & time will restore it. Accept my kind salutations & good wishes Th: Jefferson PrC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. Lemaire”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso.
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From Samuel Lewis, Sr. Sir, No. 316, Race Street, Philadelphia July 29. 1804. With the greatest respect I am induced to solicit your recommen dation of me, to the Secretary of the Treasury, (to whom I have made application to supply the vacancy of Draughtsman to that Depart ment, occasioned by the death of Mr. De Krafft,) as capable of per forming the duties attached to that situation. I flatter myself, your favorable opinion of my abilities might conduce to obtain me the abovementioned Employment. During my continuance in Phila delphia, the various Employers, with whom I have been transiently engaged, are fully satisfied with my integrity, correctness and punc tuality: amongst whom I can mention Mr. Mathew Carey, a firm and steady friend and patron, for ten years past. Should I be so fortunate as to succeed in my application, so, as that my Abilities may be of service to this, my native Country, I can only say, that punctuality, fidelity, and attention to my duty, should invari ably mark my conduct—and the evening of my days pass on in peace and happiness, in the satisfaction of being enabled to support my nu merous family. I have the honor to be, Sir, with great respect, Your obedient Servant, Samuel Lewis RC (NHi); at foot of text: “The Presi dent of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 7 Aug. and “to be draughts man v. Kraft”; so recorded in SJL, with notation “T.” Enclosed in TJ to Gallatin, 8 Aug.
i have made application: on 27 July, Lewis wrote to Gallatin requesting the draftsman’s position made available by the recent death of Charles De Krafft (Dupl in DNA: RG 59, LAR, endorsed by TJ: “Lewis Saml. to be draftsman v. Kraft”; Washington Federalist, 28 July).
To Constantine S. Rafinesque Monticello July 29. 04.
Th: Jefferson presents his [salutations] to Mr. Rafinesque and his thanks for the seeds [forwarded to] him by post. he is sorry it is not in his power to give him any [information] that might [be useful to?] his purpose of botanizing [in] [. . .] he has been so long [engaged] by pursuits of a different nature that his familiarity with [subjects] of botany is lost, and the [. . .] of that [science] very much weakened in his memory. should mr Rafinesques pursuits lead him to this part of the country, Th:J. would be happy [. . .] at Monticello, and to rec ommend him to better botanical counsellors than himself. 163
2 9 J U LY 1 8 0 4 PrC (MHi); faint; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso and recorded in SJL as a letter of 27 July.
thanks for the seeds: see Rafi nesque to TJ, 23 July.
From Thomas Munroe Sir, Washington 31t July 1804 I beg leave respectfully to submit for your consideration a sketch of our funds and a few remarks relative to the public works now pro gressing in the City, which I am apprehensive we shall be obliged to discontinue in part or the funds will be exhausted long before the end of the building Season.— There is now in the Treasury of the $50,000 appropriated last ⎪⎫ session, including the $10,000 for which a requisition has, I ⎬⎪ Dollars. presume, been signed at Monticello within a few days past, ⎪⎪ 20,000 ⎭ but not yet recd. by me In T Munroes hands of public monies. $6,709 Of which, arose out of City funds $145 ⎫ Do. remaining of the Appropriation of ⎪ 1803 transferred to the Acct. of High ⎬⎪ 5093 ⎭ ways 5,238 1,471 Unexpended balance of appropriation of 1804 Ds. 21,471 which sum of $21,471 is incumbered with the following demands & necessary reservations to wit $21,471 Due G Blagdin for Stone Cutting carving & setting $2000. Due to workmen & Labourers at the Capital & Presidents House, that is, at the latter Lenox’s roll of Carpenters & the men on the roof; for this month –1,700. Reserve for fitting up Library for Ho. of represts. 1000. Do. to pay for rough stone, Lime, sand, scaffold poles & other articles delivered & not paid for; or contracted to be delivered—and also for contingent demands now outstanding. 1,500. Do. for Freestone contracted for, say 1700 Tons 164
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at the average of $9 Ton paid on Acct. say
$15,300 7000
Due about 8,300.
14,500 leaving about 7000 Ds. only, on the 1t. of August (tomorrow) to pay workmen, & to defray other expenses not enumerated.— Blagdins roll of Cutters Carvers & setters it is said will require that sum to keep them at work 2 months & a half on the present establishment—. It occurr’d to me on Saturday last that our funds could not long stand the Expense of the works on the present scale, and I yesterday sent for Messrs Lenthall & Blagdin—. we conversed a good deal on the subject, and the enclosed letter written by Lenthall at my request, for your consideration, contains his ideas. Blagdin & myself supposed it might be best & that you would direct that the utmost should be done towards carrying up the external walls as high as possible this fall, and that as there is a great quantity of stone ready for setting it would be well to cease cutting & carving and all internal work and to set all the cut stone as fast as possible—he thinks it probable (and I believe Lenthall also thinks so) that if you Sir deem it eligible the external walls may be very nearly carried up by the end of the season—the works generally, however, are going on as when you left the City, and will continue, till your pleasure is made known on the subject. Lenthall desires me to ask you, Sir, whether the west side of the cellar wall now digging at the Prests. Ho might not be carried up with thick plank instead of Stone as you contemplate its being taken down whenever the Colonnade between the Offices & Prests House is made—He is not at this time with me, nor shall I see him before the mail closes or I would ask him whether his memdm. by which I make the enquiry be correct, for I did not suppose that if the Colon nade mentioned should be erected it would necessarily require the taking down of that wall—he, however, best knows your ideas con cerning it but it is not a matter of much consequence I suppose1—I have the Honor to be with the most respectful considn Sir Yr Ob Hum Servt Thomas Munroe RC (DLC); at foot of text: “President of US”; endorsed by TJ as received 2 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: John Lenthall to Munroe, 31 July, relat ing the state of construction at the Capi tol Building; noting that the ground story exterior is finished all around to the top of the imposts and that the principal story exterior is finished to varying heights, de pending on the side of the building, but
nowhere “better than 8 feet from the top of the impost,” and in some cases only to the window seats; Lenthall further relates that, regarding the interior of the Capitol, after the labor and expense of “pulling down, carting & wheeling away” lumber, stone, brick, earth, and rubbish, work has commenced on digging out the founda tion and building piers, six of which have now been carried to the surface; Lenthall
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3 1 J U LY 1 8 0 4 states that “As you require my Opinion whether it is best to carry on the Outside walls to the greatest height” or to “push on the inside with force the remainder of the season,” he must write candidly that although work on the exterior walls is “most agreeable in making a shew,” it would be best to push forward on the in terior, allowing time for the exterior stone and mortar to set properly; Lenthall, who signs the letter as “for BH Latrobe,” de fers to the president as best judge (RC in DLC). At some time, TJ added notes to a letter of 14 June from George Blagden
(blagdin) to Lenthall containing Blag den’s estimate of the cost of a Tuscan col umn, which was $17.50 for the stone and $25 for workmanship. Comparing the cost to that of the Doric design he pre ferred, the president wrote, “such a col umn, including it’s base and capital mea sures about 34. square feet superficially. which is 73½ cents a square foot. one of my Doric columns measures 99.5 sq. f. it’s workmanship at that rate is 73. D” (RC in DLC; endorsed by TJ (smudged): “[. . .]iding Price of plain Stone columns at Washington”). 1
Preceding 11 words interlined.
To Samuel Harrison Smith Dear Sir Monticello July 31. 04. Your paper of the 23d. came to my hands the day before yesterday. observing in it what is said on the subject of the paper charged on me by Coleman, I turned to the Journals of the Virginia convention of that time, to wit, ten months before the declaration of Independance, and found in them & about that date, a paper drawn by me in answer to Lord North’s conciliatory propositions, which sufficiently shews my sentiments at that time. but there was no paper in these journals which bore any resemblance to the one quoted by Coleman as ‘penned by mr Jefferson, or at any rate signed by him in his own hand writing, & preserved in the public records of the country.’ not observing the insidious wording here, imputing, to the understanding of 99. read ers out of an 100. as it did to mine1 what was false, yet literally sus ceptible of being reconciled to truth; and conscious there existed no such paper in my hand writing nor among the records of Virginia, the only state in whose councils I had been. I set it down as a falsehood. still believing he referred to some2 paper in my own state, signed by me, & preserved among it’s records, and knowing that according to our forms no paper was ever signed but by the President of the Con vention, & consequently that I, an individual member, could not have been called on to sign any paper drawn by another, I believed it false in toto. but at length observing that ‘the records of the country’ might apply to those of Congress, and that a paper ‘signed by me, in my own hand writing,’ might mean that the signature only was mine, and not the whole hand writing of the paper, I was led to look into the jour 166
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nals of Congress & there Vol. 1st. page 150. found the very passage quoted, in the famous 2d. petition of mr Dickinson to the king. this paper was passed by Congress after great opposition, & against the wish of nine tenths of the members, on the earnest solicitations of mr Dickinson who drew it, and a few others, and on their declaration that if it was not satisfactorily answered, they would join us heartily. for the sake of union therefore we suffered it to pass. I remember well that after the vote had passed mr Dickinson rose, expressed his tran scendent pleasure, and added ‘that there was but one word in the address which he disliked, which was the word ‘Congress,’ for that word might be offensive.’ on which Governor Harrison rose and said ‘and, mr President, there is but one word in the address which I like, and that is the word ‘Congress.’ and his was the sentiment of the whole body. however the paper was permitted to pass, and we all signed it individually, that having been the usage of the Congress as to important papers till Independance was declared. the committee for drawing this petition was appointed June 3. consisting of Dickin son, Johnson, Rutledge, Jay & Franklin, at which time I was in the Virginia convention, and was in the act of drawing their answer to Ld. North’s proposition. the journals of Congress pa. 124. shew that the petition was reported to Congress June 19. and that I took my seat there June 21. it was battled till the 8th. of July, and signed on that day for peace sake by it’s bitterest opponents. and how different it’s train of sentiment from mine at that day will be seen by the an swer to Ld. North. so far was my stile or sentiments at that time from being inconsistent with what was expressed in the declaration of in dependance 10. months after, that in the last paragraph you will find exactly the same phrases in some instances as were afterwards used in the declaration. on the whole however, the expression in the Natl. Intelligencer ‘that it is likewise false that he ever signed such a paper drawn by another’ is an incorrectness into which I have been inveigled by the crafty diction of Coleman’s paragraph, putting me on the wrong scent of searching the state transactions, instead of those of Congress, and understanding him to mean a paper in my own handwriting, not merely a signature in my own handwriting, in which sense the latter words are tautologous. I presume it better to correct this, before it is noticed by the enemy, and as shortly as the light nature of the ques tion seems to require. I inclose you the journal of Convention, & pray you to keep it safely & return it to me on my arrival at Washington, as I believe my collection of those journals is the only one in existence. the original paper was not entered in the journals of Congress, be cause they did not enter there the communications they recieved from 167
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others.3
but it is certainly on the files of Congress in the Secretary of state’s office. Accept my friendly salutations. Th: Jefferson
RC (DLC: J. Henley Smith Papers); at foot of first page: “S. H. Smith”; en dorsed by Smith. PrC (DLC). Enclosure: see below. subject: see TJ to Samuel Harrison Smith, 19 July. In June 1775, TJ wrote the House of Burgesses’ response to lord north’s conciliatory propositions (Vol. 1: 1704). correct this: Smith included TJ’s corrections in the 10 Aug. 1804 issue of the National Intelligencer, stating that TJ had signed the petition “as a matter of form.”
journal of convention: TJ en closed a pamphlet that detailed the House of Burgesses’ conflict with Lord Dunmore over the removal of gunpowder from the Williamsburg arsenal and included TJ’s response to Lord North (Proceedings of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, Convened in General Assembly, on Thursday the first day of June, 1775 [Williamsburg, 1775], 58; Smith to TJ, 8 Aug.; TJ to Smith, 12 Aug.). 1
Preceding five words interlined. TJ first wrote “something” before al tering the word to read as above. 3 Preceding two words interlined. 2
Notes on Appointments Orleans
Govr. Secretary Judges • • • •
Atty Marshall.
[ca. July 1804]
Claiborne James Brown.
Pinkney Kirby Prevost Hall Distr. Rodney Thos. Govr. Misipi. [he is judge of Misipi] Hull Williams Rob.
Dickerson Clouet (11. 51.) or Guillot (25. 67. 78.) Thos Urqhart. 97. 110. Fr. E. S
Legislative council French. Americans Detrihan. 7. 47. 85. 1161 Benjamin Morgan. C.
John Watkins. C. 168
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Cuisergue. 16. 56. 106.
Gaspard Dubuys. * 26. 68. 74. Poydrass. C. of Point Coupée 86. 113. Fr. Eng. Sp. Bellchasse. 95 C. W. of German coast. q Boré 1. 41. 84. speaks Fr. only • Derbigny. Eng. Sauvé. Eng. * speak English + reside in country Commandants.
Col. Col. Col Majr.
Meigs. Judge Gibs. Majr. Mass. Hunt Seth. N.H. Claiborne Fred. Capt. Hunter John S. Kentucky Peyroux Henry Scott John M. Kentucky Richard Kennon. July 20. wrote to. offered to be Colo.
1804. July 5. on consultation with mr Gallatin. he accepts if Hoffman Register of Detroit declines, appoint Lewis Bond. Turner Register of Natchez to remain till Dec. 1. the commn however to go off Nov. 1. enquire as to Thos. Fitzpatrick of S.C. from Briggs. & Claiborne. if do not find him appoint Wm. Bayard Shields.2 July 20. wrote to Sumpter & Hampton if now Fitzpatric would accept, not ascertaing. whether I should appoint him Commr. or Register. 169
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Vincennes. Nathaniel Ewen ⎫ ⎪ of Pensva3 ⎪ lie till I × Kaskaskias. Elijah Backus. ⎬ return ⎪ × Detroit Bates. ⎪ ⎭ Register. Fitzpatrick Natchez. Toulman to be Reciever at Mobile
✓ Marietta. Collector. Griffin Greene said to be dead. appoint Philip Greene. his son ✓ Nanjemoy. John Brent collector. Reciever of public monies.
×
Orleans. ✓ Govr. Claiborne ✓ Secretary. James Brown. July 20. wrote to know if wd accept Judges of Superior court. Pinckney ✓ Kirby ✓ Prevost. July. 20. wrote to him to know if wd accept Rob. Williams Judge of the District court. ✓ Dominic A. Hall. July 20. wrote to him to know if would accept Attorney of District. ✓ Dickerson. Robert Williams. Joseph Story. Mass. Crownenshd. P. Edward Denna. Lancast. Mas. Marshall. Clouet. 11. 51. Guillot. 25. 67. 78. ✓Urquhart 110. Govr. Misipi. Thos. Rodney. Hull. Baldwin MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 141:25350); undated but see below; entirely in TJ’s hand, including brackets in text. TJ’s notes relate to candidates for ap pointments he considered during July. It is not always clear when or from whom TJ derived his information. He based his list of candidates for the legislative council of Orleans Territory on the characterizations enclosed in James Wil kinson’s letter of 1 July, with additional information from recommendations in cluded in William C. C. Claiborne’s letter of 29 May, which TJ received on 4 July. The numbers that TJ wrote next to some of the Orleans candidates he took from his numbering system for the characteriza tions. TJ summarized his 5 July consul tation with Gallatin regarding sundry domestic appointments, several of which
he opted to let “lie till I return” from Monticello. At different points TJ added information, such as his notations of let ters written to several candidates on 20 July offering appointments in Orleans Territory and Louisiana District. Check marks he inserted to the left of several names apparently indicated those who were offered appointments, although TJ did not use this marking consistently throughout his notes (see also Vol. 43: Appendix ii). Other markings may have indicated some of his early preferences for appointments. 1 Entry
interlined. of paragraph interlined. 3 TJ interlined Nathaniel Ewing’s name and state after he made the “July 20” in terlineation above. 2 Remainder
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From William Kilty Sir City of Washington August 1st 1804 I had this morning, the Honour of receiving your letter of the 27th July enclosing the Petition of Thomas Rustic, or Duffy On Considering his Case We have thought it proper to make a recommendation in his favour, which you will find returned with his Petition I am Sir With Great respect Yr obt Servt W Kilty RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Th: Jefferson Esqr”; endorsed by TJ as received 4 Aug. and “Rustic’s case” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Peti
tion of Thomas Duffy (Thomas Rustic), 23 July, with recommendation of the court added at foot of testimonial.
From Elkanah Watson Sir Albany. 1st. Augt. 1804 I had the honor & the pleasure Sometime Since to Recieve a line from your Own hand, acknowledging the Rect. of my Short Tour in Holland. Having travelled extensively in the U.S. America—France— England—Belgieum & part of Germany—mostly in the time of Our Revolution, & partly Since—I have it in contemplation (Not from any pecuniary Motive but to gratify my friends) to Submit my Jour nals to the press. The direct object of this Letter Sir, is to tender to you my Sincere & warmest thanks, for the attention paid to the recommendation of the late Lieut. Govr. of this State—the Comptroler—& the Secy. of our State—& myself in the appointment of Our worthy friend Simon Lynch Esqr. to the Station of American Consul at the Port of Nantes in France—& I am the more gratified by letters recently Rec’d by the last arrivals to hear how well & how Satisfactory to the public, he fills an office of Such importance in a Port of that Consequence. Genl. Armstrong Wrote me Yesterday that he was on the Point of Sailing for that Port, & I trust & hope Mr Lynche’s Conduct will be Such as to Confirm Your good opinion of him—& I am gratified that Genl. A intends Calling on him personally. I am with profound Respect & Veneration. Your Obliged Elkanah Watson RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “President Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Aug. and so recorded in
SJL; also endorsed by TJ: “S. Lynch. Consul Nantes.”
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1 AUGUST 1804 line from your own hand: TJ to Watson, 24 Mch. For the recommendations by Watson, Lieutenant Governor Jeremiah Van Rensselaer, and New York comptroller Elisha Jenkins for simon lynch, see Vol. 37:5267, 53840. At that time New York’s secretary of state was Thomas Til lotson, but a recommendation from him was not recorded and has not been found. Lynch drew some criticism from a group of masters of U.S. merchant vessels who,
in an undated petition to Robert R. Liv ingston, described his affairs as “somewhat deranged.” They instead recommended Thomas Dobrée, who was also recom mended to Madison in a letter of 8 Dec. 1804 from James Sheafe. Lynch ended up serving as deputy to the American consul in Nantes, William Patterson (DNA: RG 59, LAR, 3:28993, letter from Sheafe endorsed by TJ: “Dobree Thos. to be Commercl. Agt. Nantes v. Lynch”; Wash ington, Papers, Rev. War Ser., 16:179).
From William Kilty Sir Washn. August 2d 1804 Mr John Bowie Ducket of Maryland has informed me of his wish ing to obtain the appointment of attorney for the district of Columbia, when resigned by Mr Mason and has requested me to make Know to you his pretensions to it I Should not have been so early in Complying with this request, but for information from Mr Mason himself that He meant to resign immediately after the Present Term Mr Ducket read Law with me in the Years 1795. & 1796 and part of the Year 1797—He has since been in Practice in Charles County in Maryland and also in the General Court and has occasionally acted as Prosecutor or Attorney in Charles and Prince Georges Counties, which has given him some Knowledge of that part of the Profession He is a young Gentleman of Good Talents and respectable Con nections and Deportment He is at present Clerk of the Senate of Maryland, having been appointed by the Republican Senate in Eigh teen hundred and one but I presume He would remove here in Case of his being appointed I feel disposed from regard for Mr Ducket and in Justice to him to State in addition to the above observations that I Consider him Qual ified to perform the Duties of the office in Question, but I wish it to be understood that I do not wish to derogate from the Pretensions of others who may have their Claims nor to express any particular de sire as a Member of the Court, which perhaps might be improper I avail myself of this occasion to State that Mr Tucker the Treasurer informed me after You left the City that He was to have Denon’s Voy ages when I had read them, and I Shall accordingly leave them with him I have the Honour to be With Great respect Yr Obt Servt W Kilty 172
2 AUGUST 1804 RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Th Jefferson Esqr”; endorsed by TJ as received 4 Aug. and “J. B. Ducket” and so recorded in SJL. Madison received a recommendation for John Bowie Duckett from another member of the judiciary. On 23 May 1804, Maryland judge Richard Sprigg,
Jr., wrote Madison that Duckett was a Republican of good character who, in his duties as acting deputy attorney general, had shown a rare combination of “dili gence legal knowledge and Ability” (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Ducket John Bowie to be Distr. Atty Columbia”). denon’s voyages: see Vol. 34:454n.
From Peter Kuhn, Sr. Sir Philadelphia 2 Augt 1804 Permit me again to take the liberty in troubling your Excellency to inclose a Letter just received from my Son at Genoa—He informs me that from the increased business of his House at Gibraltar, his permanent residence will be necessary at that place, and that his con cerns at Genoa will be hereafter conducted Solely by his Partner Mr Storm—He flatters himself that your Excellency will have the good ness, in the event of a vacancy of the Consulate at Gibraltar, to take his former application into view, relative to which he now has the honor of addressing your Excellency Feeling as I do, for the advancement of a Son, whose merits & standing in life entitle him to my best wishes & interest, I trust your Excellency will pardon this further intrusion from me— With the highest esteem & respect Your very ob. hl St. Peter Kuhn RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at head of text: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 12 Aug. and “Kuhn Peter junr. to be Consul Gi braltar” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Peter Kuhn, Jr., to TJ, 12 May.
From John Ewing Porter Sir, Philadelphia August 2. 1804 Herewith you will receive a copy of an oration, which was pro nounced by me on the 4th. Ultimo. In forwarding to you this my first publication, I have no Motive but the offer of a small testimony of that respect & esteem, which I have uniformly professed for your conduct as a Statesman; and your character as a man. Considering the pro duction, as coming from a youth of twenty years of age—composed at a very short notice, under the pressure of professional business— your candour will doubtless afford some apology for its numerous 173
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defects. In reliance upon this hope I have presumed to submit it to your inspection. I have the honour to be Sir, Your most obedient and Most humble Servant J. E. Porter. RC (MHi); at head of text: “To his Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esquire, President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 7 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: John Ewing Porter, An Oration, in Commemoration of the American Independence. Delivered Agreeably to an Appointment of the Lysian Society, on Wednesday July the Fourth, 1804 (Phila delphia, 1804; Sowerby, No. 4684). John Ewing Porter (17841819) studied law with his older brother Robert Porter in Philadelphia and was admitted to the Pennsylvania bar in 1805. The following year, Porter was elected to the Republi can committee of conference and corre
spondence for the state’s first congres sional district. After a falling out with his father, Revolutionary War officer Andrew Porter, John Ewing Porter moved to North Carolina in 1809, taught English and mathematics at the Vine Hill Acad emy, and eventually studied medicine. Porter successfully petitioned the Penn sylvania legislature to change his last name to Parker in 1818 (Philadelphia Aurora, 21 Jan. 1805, 26 May 1806; NewYork Spectator, 3 Dec. 1819; Acts of the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania [Harrisburg, 1818], 240; pmhb, 4 [1880], 295; biographical in formation in PEL: Porter Family Papers, 18001918; Vol. 38:100).
From John Armstrong of New York Sir, New York 3d. August 1804. I returned to this City with my family on the 1st. when I had the honor of receiving your letters of the 11th. & 20th. of July with their enclosures. Your directions with regard to these, shall be punctually obeyed. I have now reason to believe that my sailing will be somewhat de layed. The ship is partially loading on freight and some additional cargo is wanted. I have however received the assurances of the own ers that even this cause, should it continue to exist, shall not be per mitted to detain her beyond the 12th. There are letters in town from Mr. Livingston which mention the beginning of August as the time at which he meant to leave Paris. Should he adhere to this arrangement, the difference between his de parture & my arrival will after all, be much less than we had counted upon. You will be pleased to accept my most grateful thanks for your good wishes, and assurances of the very high respect & consideration With which, I have the honor to be, Sir, Your Most Obedient & Very humble Servant John Armstrong. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the U.S.”; endorsed by TJ as received 12 Aug. and so recorded in SJL.
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To Elias Boudinot Sir Monticello Aug. 3. 04. Your favor of the 30th. ult. came to hand last night. as the question how far we can place the Indian funds under private direction & co operation lies within the department of War, I have this day written to Genl. Dearborne on it. if he be still at Washington I may expect an early answer: if gone on to Maine, it will be some time first. in either case as soon as his answer is recieved you shall hear from me. Accept my salutations & assurances of respect. Th: Jefferson PrC (DLC); at foot of text: “Elias Boudenot esq.”
Boudinot’s favor of 30 July has not been found, but see TJ to Dearborn, 3 Aug., and Dearborn to TJ, 23 Aug. (first letter).
From Stephen Cathalan, Jr. Marseilles the 3d.
Dear Sir & most respected Friend! August 1804. I had the honor of paying you my respects on the 27th. July ulto. under Cover of Js. Madison Esqre. Secy. of State, to whom I for warded a dispatch from Tunis & transmitted the intelligences I had just collected from Tripoly. The Brother of Mr. Beaussier at Tripoly having yesterday waited on me, left me the originals of the herein inclosed Copies for my pe rusal, according to his directions, & I have taken upon myself to Cause said Copies to be drawn up; without his knowledge, being aware their Contents, may be useful, & even acceptable to you, for your own private Governmt. in the affairs respecting Tripoly.— I beg you, only, to be so kind as to Consider that this letter, & these Copies of originals transmitted to a brother, & to me under the Con fidence of Friendship, more so, the Copy of a dispatch from him in his Official Capacity, to his own Minister, are Confided direct by me to you, Sir, not as to the honble. President of the U.S. but as to the best, and the most respectable & Worthy Friend, I am so fortunate, as to have in this world, tho’ at a too far distance! who being at the head of the Government of the U.S., wishes to be informed by disinterested people, of all what may Come to their Knowledge, and may be useful to the prosperity of the Nation, to which you have devoted yourself entirely;—From the above motives I have taken the liberty to address you direct this letter & inclosures, & not to the Secy. of State with 175
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whom, alone, I am to Correspond in my Official Capacity, as it would be found indiscreet, & dangerous for Mr. Bier. & me, if such a dis patch to his own Minister, Should be known, or published abroad.— It is not to me to take a prejudice in favor or against the parties or individuals Concerned in this Affair;—nor to hazard with you my pri vate opinion on a Continuation of a war with Tripoly, a redemption of our unfortunate Captives there, or a peace with that Regency— even on a Continuation of a peace with Tunis & Algiers, or a general war with those Barbarian Powers.—I have not forgotten your opin ion while Minister Pleny. near the French Court at Versailles;—that a Coalition between the European Powers at war with them, was pref erable to Shameful annual tributes, to be at peace with them. The United States having fitted out a Navy to protect their Neu trality, to Exerce it & Keep it employed with advantage the War with Tripoly is an useful object; as it forces the Tunisians & Algerins to Keep faithfully their treaties with the U.S.—and in the present Cir cumstances, a war with these two last Barbarian Powers, Should they declare it, would not be a great addition of Expences, to your Navy; in these Seas. Compensating what it Costs to be at peace with them; the U.S. would give a great Example to the European Powers tribu tary of the Barbarians, in forcing these Pirates to Peace, without Pur chasing it.— But unfortunately the Crew of the Frigate Philada. is in Captivity at Tripoly! it is impossible to get them free without paying an adequate ransom, treating for a Peace at the Same Time;—It is that unfortu nate Chance of Captivity, we Experience, now, which has hitherto risen the pretentions of these powers of Barbary, to which the Euro pean Powers have Submited themselves, to be at Peace with them;— the Consuls of the Powers of the 2nd. Order, having Purchased at very heavy rates their Peace & Ransoms (the Swd. for Example) would see, I apprehend, with some Jealousy, that the U. States Should ob tain an honble. Peace, & the release of their People in Captivity, at low Terms;—they may then take indirect Means to prevent the Powers at war, to Succeed—add to this the Jealousy of the Britsh. Consul against the French Intervention, there is no wounder, the Dey, Bashaw, & Bey of these Regencies, takes the advantage of the intrigues & Servil ity of the Christians, who ought to Join together de Bonne foy & fol low your example to distroy these Pirates for Ever; Please to excuse my freedom in having entered with you & ventured in these details, but I am fully Confident you will receive them as a proof of my Zeal & Activity for the Service of the U. States, & my readiness to execute your Commands in whatever you may find proper to employ me. 176
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I have the honor to be with the greatest respect, Sir Your most Obedient & Devoted Servant. Stephen Cathalan Junr. P.S. What follows is a Copy of a letter from Consul Thoms Appleton dated leghorn 24th July, “I Just received a letter from Commodore Preble, in which he says. under date of Messina 29 of June, I am now in possession of Six Gun and two Mortar boats, Six long battering Cannons—with Powder, Shot & Shells, and all the necessary Naval and Military Stores for an attack on Tripoly which I hope will bring the Bashaw to such terms of Peace as we shall not blush to accept of.” His harbour & Coast is at present Closely Blockaded, I left sight of it the 14 inst. Since which I have visited Tunis, His Tunisian Majesty threatens but I do not believe he will declare War against us, while we have a respectable force in these Seas.” S. Cn. J: I ought have wrote my Self this Letter, but I have Such a Bad hand, that I have caused my chancor. Jus. Oliver, to copy, it on the original. RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, with sig natures and second postscript by Catha lan; at head of text: “Private”; addressed: “Most Honble. Thomas Jefferson—Pres ident of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 20 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures: (1) Bonaventure Beaus sier to Edward Preble, 7 Germinal Year 12 [28 Mch. 1804], from Tripoli, report ing his audience with Yusuf Qaramanli, to whom he communicated the interest of the first consul in the release of the Philadelphia prisoners and in fostering peace between the United States and Tripoli; Beaussier informs Preble that the pasha was pleased to hear about Bonaparte’s interest but surprised that Beaussier had returned from his conference aboard Pre ble’s ship without a Tripolitan prisoner previously discussed; Beaussier advises Preble that release of the prisoner would facilitate his goal of delivering provisions to the American prisoners; in response to Preble’s question of what the pasha might expect for a ransom, Beaussier answers that given Qaramanli’s desire to combine ransom and peace negotiations and the amounts paid by some European powers, he expects that Tripoli will seek at least 500,000 piastres; Beaussier adds that he did inform the pasha that the United States will not pay for peace and has plans to foment civil war between Qaramanli and his brother, and that he would be wise,
given the first consul’s interest, to lower his expectations; but Qaramanli argued that Bonaparte would not expect him to divest himself of the advantages of war and that he had little to fear from his brother; Beaussier advises Preble that sustained aggression will only raise the costs of freeing the American prisoners, and that during negotiations the block ade ought to be lifted; he asks if Preble has full power to negotiate with Tripoli, or if the commodore must wait for the sanction of his government, which could not have foreseen the capture of 300 Amer icans by Tripoli (Tr in DLC: TJ Papers, 139:240956; in French; at head of text: “Copy”; translation printed in ndbw, 3:5424). (2) Beaussier to his brother in Marseilles, 28 Prairial Year 12 [17 June 1804], from Tripoli; briefing his brother on the report he has submitted to the first consul, Beaussier believes that, in accor dance with his government’s wishes, he had convinced Yusuf Qaramanli to restore peace between Tripoli and the United States; the actions of Commodore Preble, however, have put an end to negotiations, and Preble has accused Beaussier of com promising the dignity of the French gov ernment; upon his return to the blockade on 12 June, Preble responded to Beaus sier’s letters of 28 Mch. and 24 May; Beaussier now transcribes the commo dore’s letter of the 12th, in which Preble
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3 AUGUST 1804 opines that the first consul must have been a bit mortified that Beaussier has been unable to deliver food and clothes to the American prisoners from the Philadelphia, and that Bonaparte must have expected his intervention to carry more weight with Qaramanli; Preble adds that he could cer tainly send ashore the Tripolitan prisoner the Americans took, but only in exchange for one of the American prisoners; fur thermore, Preble declares the pasha’s de mand as futile and that he can never ex pect more than a tenth of the expected ransom; Preble insists that he has been authorized to redeem the Philadelphia pris oners and make peace if this can be ac complished in terms that are compatible with the honor and dignity of the United States; Richard O’Brien carries Preble’s letter and is to present a ransom offer to Qaramanli; Preble hopes that Beaussier will aid O’Brien in the negotiations and that he will also obtain permission to un load provisions for the prisoners; Beaus sier next transcribes his 13 June response to Preble, in which he insists he has done nothing to compromise the name of the first consul or his government’s dignity but that the truly paltry and injurious offer of ransom (“l’offre vraiment mes quine et injurieuse”) after such a long break in discussions has disrupted nego tiations; Beaussier decries O’Brien’s fail ure to confer with him before making the ransom offer to Qaramanli and argues that Preble has been wrong in soliciting Bonaparte’s help while intending an offer of only 40,000 piastres, a lower sum than was offered before U.S. sailors were im prisoned; in a postscript of 14 July, Beaus sier assumes that Preble has decided to sail for Malta instead of unloading provi sions for the prisoners even though the pasha has agreed to allow it; Beaussier
next transcribes for his brother his report to the French government on the events of 13 June, describing O’Brien’s impoli tic offer to Qaramanli, who nevertheless remained calm and informed O’Brien that Preble could unload the clothing and food for the prisoners and that afterward there would be no further communication be tween them; Beaussier’s understanding is that Preble must have believed that French intervention would ensure that a meager ransom would be sufficient to free the Philadelphia prisoners, a belief that suggests that Preble has received no in structions from his president, who, in formed of the first consul’s interest, would have been more attuned to reason and fair ness; Beaussier repeats that Preble seems to have given up on conveying the provi sions, despite the urgent need for these essential goods; in a postscript to the re port, Beaussier states his belief that while in Malta, Preble consulted with Bryan McDonogh, the British consul, who is a close friend of O’Brien; Beaussier warns that McDonogh is a mean, vindictive man, an enemy of peace who is suspicious above all of France’s intervention and who has sought revenge on Tripoli, France, and the United States through his per fidious counsel and insinuations; Beaus sier requests that his brother share this communication with Cathalan (Tr in DLC: TJ Papers, 141:213734; in French; Beaussier’s June exchange with Preble, in English, is in ndbw, 4:1801, 1845). brother of mr. beaussier: likely André Beaussier, who remained in Mar seilles, birthplace of the French com missary general at Tripoli, Bonaventure Beaussier (Anne Mézin, Les consuls de France au siècle des lumières [1715-1792] [Paris, 1997], 1323).
To Henry Dearborn Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 3. 04. I inclose you a letter from mr Boudinot to whom an answer is promised as soon as I shall hear from you on the subject. I think this mr Blackburn called on us, and recieved such assurances as then gave him satisfaction. as we have in other instances encouraged the coop 178
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eration of the Quakers in Indian civilization,1 it is to be considered whether we may with advantage do the same with other sects. the spirit of that which now applies is materially different from that of the Quakers, and in all cases we must keep in our own hands the es sential direction of the application of our funds. not knowing whether you have left Washington, I direct this to that place, presuming, if you have, it will be forwarded to you. I hope your health is perfectly reestablished, as well as mrs Dearborne’s. Accept affectionate saluta tions & assurances of respect. Th: Jefferson PrC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Sec retary at War.” Notation in SJL: “Boudi not. Blackburn.” Enclosure: Elias Boudi not to TJ, 30 July, not found (see TJ to Boudinot, 3 Aug.). Gideon blackburn called on TJ on 1 July 1803 to ask for government assis tance in establishing a Cherokee mission school in Tennessee; see Vol. 40:4945.
other sects: Blackburn’s mission was under the auspices of the Standing Committee of Missions of the Presbyte rian General Assembly, on which Elias Boudinot served (The General Assembly’s Missionary Magazine; or Evangelical Intelligencer: for 1805, 1 [1806], viii). 1
Preceding three words interlined.
From Michael Fortune Sir Philadelphia, Walnut Street, No. 39. August 3d. 1804— Some time, in last May, I had the honor of inclosing you, the first Copy of my Song entitled “The Acquisition of Louisiana,” which was intended to express the Sentiment of a Nation respecting their Chief Magistrate, on the great event of acquiring Louisiana.—As I am anx ious to know whether you have received it, permit me, Sir, to request the favor of a Line on the occasion.— with the most respectful Consideration I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedient Servant Michael Fortune RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States of America”; endorsed by TJ as received 7 Aug. and so recorded in SJL.
inclosing you: see Fortune to TJ, received 14 May (Vol. 43:4256).
To Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 3. 04. I recieved last night your favor of July 26. and have this morning directed Commissions to issue to Philip Greene as Collector and In spector of Marietta. the appointment of Rue I presume must await 179
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Hargrove’s resignation, as the cause suggested for his removal is al together unfit to be scrutinised by us. Tupper’s politics being federal, if his appointment gives uneasiness, would not his holding another office furnish ground for superceding him? but this is for consider ation only in the case of uneasiness existing. mr Armistead’s letter is returned. mr Prevost accepts the place of Judge of the Orleans dis trict. I this day write to mr Smith to offer a like commission to mr Pinckney immediately on his arrival. you know that mr L. proposes to withdraw the ensuing winter or autumn, & that J.T.M. had been thought of as his successor. this he declines. in this case nobody oc curs to me fitter than M.D. whom it might be more important to place there than in N.O. will you think of this & give me your opin ion on it, as soon as you can that a decision may be formed between the two places. nothing however must be said to D. until our deci sion. the inclosed letter to me from Cheetham is very embar rassing. were competition for the public printing to lie between a Burrite & Clintonian, certainly a decision on our part might be de clined. but between a Clintonian and a federalist there cannot be a moment’s hesitation; and mr Gelston ought certainly to have no hesi tation. yet I ought not to write either to him or to Cheetham on the subject. as you are on the spot, & in communication with mr Gelston cannot you find means of setting him to rights in this matter, & that he should use no further delay? I have no objections to his under standing that I consider Cheetham as the most unquestionably repub lican printer in NewYork & therefore having better title than any other. be so good as to return the letter. Affectionate salutations & respect. Th: Jefferson P.S. mr Granger promised to write me from R. Island whether Fos ter’s appointment as Commr. of loans was desired by the republicans; but he has not done it. can you obtain information? RC (NHi); at foot of text: “Secretary of the Treasury”; endorsed by Gallatin. PrC (DLC). Enclosure: James Cheetham to TJ, 25 July. Other enclosure not found.
mr l.: Levi Lincoln. j.t.m.: John Thomson Mason. m.d.: Mahlon Dickerson.
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To Peter Lenox Sir Monticello Aug. 3. 04. Finding my work here not as far advanced as I expected I think it best not to send on a painter till I return to Washington. I mention this to you to prevent engaging one if not already done. accept my salutations & best wishes Th: Jefferson PrC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. Lenox”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso.
To James Madison Th:J. to J.M. Monticello Aug. 3. 04. I inclose you the S. Carolina ratification of the amendment to the constitution, & presume it possible that in a week more you may re cieve that of Tennisee, after which I suppose no time should be lost in publishing officially the final ratification. Prevost accepts the office of judge of the Orleans territory, & Dickerson that of Attorney. but as J.T.M.1 declines the place of A.G. US. can we find a fitter person than Dickerson for this last? can you think of any body better? I write to mr Gallatin also on this subject, as he made the application to Dick erson; and it is necessary the decision should be made before we meet again. will you be so good as to order a commission for Philip Greene as Collector of the district of Marietta, & another as Inspector of the revenue for the port of Marietta, in the room of Griffin Greene his father decd. Affectionate salutations. RC (DLC: Madison Papers). PrC (DLC). Enclosure: see James B. Rich ardson to TJ, 1 June.
1 Interlined here on RC, probably by Madison: “John Thomson Mason” (Mad ison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:555).
From Jonathan Morgan, Jr. Sir, Brimfield (Mass.) August 3, 1804 Your Excellency will, I hope excuse me for intruding, in so unwar rantable a manner upon your leisure. I have hitherto devoted, and still design to, all possible parts of my time to the pleasing pursuit of the sciences, in which as you may easily imagine I have not always returned empty of happiness. Being so well informed of your Excel lency’s love of Literature, and the honor you have been to the Lore of this land and the fecility of your pecuniary circumstances, I have had 181
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the boldness to hope that, I might, in some small degree, frind a Pa tron in yourself. The last year of my Collegiate life, I concieved the rude plan of a machine, which should give and perpetuate motion to itself. The manner of perfecting this plan has occupied all my leisure, for two years past, untill about two months past, when, as I am fully con vinced as far as as theory can advance, I hit upon the true principle of motion, which has been overlooked by those, who are and have been far my superiors in Philosophy, only on account of its simplicity. I am dependant, at present, upon what little my industry can afford, the sufference of an Uncle with whom I am reading Law and such trifles as the low circumstances of my Father can afford. I have not the means wherewith to go into the experiment my self, tho’ simple and cheap. It will cost one two or three weeks time, as I shall be under the neces sity of removing to Cambridge or Boston, for materials, as they can not be had in the Country. I have been trying to make the whole, at home, with my own hand, but cannot. I have applied to such of my friends as I have judged worth my at tention in the matter, for patronage, but have found none but frowns and contempt. I have at length after much debate with myself upon the propriety and impropriety of of making so free with your person and dignity, whom I know and estime as a Philosopher and a Magis trate, determined to hazard the consequences, which may ensue from this epistle. If my theory is just (and if I did not feel strong in its belief, I should not presume so much) I wish for the surpassing hap piness of demonstrating it to the world. You know, Sir, and I ac knowledge, that we may be deceived by theory; but when we see its fundamental principles resting upon anything solid, perminent & eternal, it will, inspite of all the sneers and cabals of those, who do not see clearly, raise and inspire in our minds a confidence to be shaken only by experiment. I have rested my power of motion or primum Mobile upon that eternal 1 Law, by which the God of nature has built, moved and preserves the system. The experiment may be fully tried for the sum of thirty Dollars. If your Excellency should feel disposed to hazard so small a sum upon the experiment, if it should succede I will not be backward in acknowledging you Sir, as a benefactor, or in remunerating, & shall hope, with an anxiety almost unknown to the human mind, that your Patronage and my long and werisome labor will be both amply rewarded. If it succedes, it will have, I ex pect, a power of motion to impart, so as to make it useful in many things. I have communicated as much of the real principles to you, Sir, as I have or ever shall to any person, and if I should still be so 182
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unfortunate as to find no friendly abettor, I am determined, if I should never be able to prosecute the design myself to carry it, with me in silence to the Dust. I am, Sir, with every sentiment of real & sincere estime your friend and humble servent, Jonathan Morgan Jr. P.S. If it should please your Excellency to comport with my wishes, you will please to direct yours to to Brookfield Post Office. I wish as a particular favor that you would so knind to me as not to let this be seen as its publication might cost me some sneers and torts, in case I should not succede— RC (DLC); addressed: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esqr. President of the United States Washington City”; franked; endorsed by TJ as received 18 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosed in Gideon Granger to TJ, 9 Aug. Jonathan Morgan, Jr. (17781871), graduated from Union College in 1803 with a dissertation on the “progress of refinement.” After studying law, Morgan was admitted to the bar in Massachu setts. Over the course of his life Morgan produced treatises on a variety of sub jects. He also created several inventions, including an improved chimney and a circular saw (New England Historical and Genealogical Register, 26 [1872], 223; The Massachusetts Register and United States Calendar; for the Year of our Lord 1812 [Boston, 1812], 101; Jonathan Mor
gan, Jr., Elements of English Grammar, with a Postscript, Analysis and an Appendix [Hallowell, Maine, 1814]; U.S. Con gress, House, Explosion of Steam Boilers. Memorial of Jonathan Morgan, Esq., 25th Cong., 2d sess., 1838, H. Doc. 100; Jona than Morgan, trans. and ed., The New Testament of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ: Translated from the Greek, into pure English [Portland, Maine, 1848]; Jonathan Morgan, A Synopsis of Diseases: Their Philosophical Causes, Progress and Termination, with a Short Dissertation on the Pulmonia, or Cattle Disease [Portland, Maine, 1860]; Albany Gazette, 12 May 1803; Hallowell Gazette, 27 Nov. 1816; List of Patents for Inventions and Designs, Issued by the United States, from 1790 to 1847 [Washington, D.C., 1847], 273). 1
Morgan here canceled “principle.”
To Robert Smith Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 3 04. As mr Pinckney may be arrived in the country some time before I hear of it, will you be so good as to take the first decent occasion, after his arrival, of offering him the office of a judge of the Supreme court of the territory of Orleans, and of asking an answer? we can only await a certain time for that: but when that time is out, I will give you notice to avoid a proposition to him after necessity shall have obliged me to fill the vacancy with another name. Affectionate salutations & respect. Th: Jefferson PrC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Secretary of the Navy.” Notation in SJL: “Pinckney.”
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To William Thornton Monticello Aug 3. 04.
Th: Jefferson returns the patents signed, to Doctr. Thornton with his respectful compliments and salutations. RC (CtWMHi).
To Benjamin Hawkins Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 4. 1804 This will be handed you by Isaac Briggs, Surveyor general of the territories of the US. South of Tennessee, now on his return to Natchez [the] place of his residence. being anxious to get the most direct road from Washington to N. Orleans, without crossing the mountains, mr Briggs has consented to go what we deem the most direct & practicable road to ascertain & plat all it’s remarkeable points so that we may have their positions & distances as accurately as celes tial observations will give them, to make all material enquiries respect ing better ways, when better are to be had than the one he pursues, & thus enable us to decide on the best, combining distance, and all other material circumstances. his rout will probably lead him near your residence in which case he will visit you. I pray you to be useful to him for all the purposes of his journey wherein you can and particu larly in giving to the Indians such an understanding of his object as may prevent their jealousy & procure him safety. your advice too, as to his best rout to the confluence of Alibama & Tombigbee (one of the points he is to ascertain) will be useful to him. his candor, truth and good sense will of themselves recommend him to your personal atten tions; my personal acquaintance with him having given me the most perfect confidence in these. Accept my friendly salutations and assur ances of great & constant esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PrC (DLC); faint; at foot of text: “Benjamin Hawkins esq.” Notation in SJL: “by Briggs.”
From James Madison Dear Sir Aug. 4. 1804 I inclose such of the communications from the office of State recd. since my arrival at home, as are worth your perusal. The letters from Mr. Livingston with the documents attached to them, being in the 184
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press copies are scarcely legible in many passages, and in some not to be made out at all. His secretary is not only lazy but disrespectful in not revising the copies and filling up the deficiencies. His long letter of May contains towards the end something on the subject of W. Florida &c. which you may wish to read, though you may be un willing to wade to it thro’ the tedious pages which precede on the debts & Commissioners. His disputes with those seem to have reached their ne plus ultra. I do not like the final ground they have taken more than the general tone of his conduct. Considered as a sort of Judiciary board, and holding their offices under the Treaty they may be theo retically right in making that & that alone the rule of their proceed ing; but they do not manifest a spirit of accomodation required by the difficulties of their business, the ambiguity of the Treaty, and the in terest of the U. States. In order to decide however precisely on their conduct it is necessary to examine critically the nature of their trust as defined in the Treaty you will find that Mr. L. is again a volunteer in diplomatic projects. The answer from the Russian Chargé involves an admonition which wd. be useful to him, if he had modesty eno’ to understand it. The letter from the St. Domingo planter at Charleston, must be answered I suppose by information that Congs. alone can decide on his application. It produces a conflict between agricultural advantages & political considerations. I left Washington on the wednesday succeeding your departure. Unaccustomed fatigue with the bad management of my driver, foun dered my horses in getting to Dumfries. I was obliged in consequence, to leave my carriage there, and proceed in a Hack brought with my baggage, to Capt. Winston’s; & to send for my Carriage, the horses which met me there. owing to these delays I did not finish my jour ney till Sunday evening. Yrs. respectfully & affely James Madison RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department on 7 Aug. and “Livingston—Commrs.—Russia— Villandry” and so recorded in SJL. En closures: (1) Robert R. Livingston to Madison, Paris, 14 Apr., regarding the death of Jean Charles Pichegru, French relations with Sweden and Russia, and de lays in the delivery of payments to France for Louisiana; Livingston has taken it upon himself to write Russian chargé Pierre d’Oubril at Paris, suggesting a treaty with Russia “for opening the Black Sea to our commerce”; that letter and D’Oubril’s response, stating that he is not
empowered to conduct such affairs, are enclosed; Edward Preble received his instructions for opening negotiations in Tripoli (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:457). (2) Livingston to Madison, Paris, 3 May, in response to Madison’s instructions of 31 Jan., advising Madison that France will not interfere with U.S. claims to West Florida despite arguments from Spain; the Louisiana stock has ar rived; Livingston disputes instructions to withhold the funds from the French gov ernment until the claims commission has completed its duties, citing its inability to negotiate without prejudice; he argues
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4 AUGUST 1804 that all the commissioners should be ter minated and substituted with men of liberal principles who might lead the commission to “ample justice instead of Splitting hairs like caviling attornies”; he describes Madison’s advice as “repugnant to the liberal spirit which has hitherto governed our Negociations” (same, 131 8). (3) Probably Livingston to Madison, Paris, 4 May, continuing his complaints of 3 May against the claims commission ers and stating that the first consul is questioning their delays (same, 14850). (4) Probably Livingston to Madison, Paris, 5 May, private, denying any jealousies between himself and James Monroe, re lating that the minister of the marine had sent Jerome Bonaparte express orders to return to France “& to return alone,” and reiterating his suggestion of 8 Feb. that Madison replace him as minister to France (same, 1558). (5) Sylvanus Bourne to Madison, Amsterdam, 27 May, enclosing newspapers that depict “the theatre of F.” (France), where they have now estab lished “a throne more splendid & costly than the one they were so anxious to abol ish”; Bourne questions if the roots of French liberty were too corrupt to thrive and the degree of Napoleon’s ambition (same, 25960). (6) Bourne to Madison, Amsterdam, 27 May, regarding the num ber of Germans and Swiss who are anx ious to settle in the United States and asking if the government would consider adopting a plan for facilitating their pas sage to America and for placing them “on the lands in the Interior of our Country” (same, 260). (7) Probably William Lee to Madison, Bordeaux, 16 May, informing him that misfortunes attached to Lee’s mercantile business will not affect his po sition as consul; also describing problems caused in his consulate by the increasing friction between Great Britain and France, including the demand of Bordeaux police that Lee deliver to them two English shipmates working aboard an American vessel (same, 2223). (8) Probably Simon Lynch to Madison, Nantes, 1 May, acting
as deputy commercial agent in the absence of consul William Patterson; relating his compliance with directions contained in circular letters sent to the port by Madi son and Gabriel Duvall (same, 1267). (9) Le Breton de Villandry to Madison, Charleston, 15 July, representing fellow refugees of SaintDomingue and request ing U.S. government aid in transport ing them to Louisiana and in granting them land and supplies (same, 4578). (10) Rufus King to Madison, Waltham, Massachusetts, 24 July, responding to Madison’s letter of 13 July that denied him reimbursement of an advance paid to distressed traveler Philip Wilson while King was minister to Great Britain; he admits his ignorance as to the lack of pre cedence in such matters, but hopes that TJ might reconsider (same, 51112). (11) John Stewart to Madison, York, Penn sylvania, 23 July, questioning the right of the postmaster general to change the postal route from Lancaster to Carlisle so that it now passes through Harrisburg instead of York, calling it a “death blow” to York businesses and a source of dis content among local Republicans; Stew art wishes to have the attorney general’s opinion on the matter (same, 5079). The communications forwarded to TJ at this time may also have included a letter to Madison from John Murray Forbes, the U.S. consul at Hamburg, written 26 May from London. Citing the harsh German winters and the lack of remuneration due to the British blockade of Hamburg, Murray sought to exchange his post for a “warm climate with good commercial prospects.” He suggested that he might replace Joseph Yznardi as con sul at Cadiz, or, should the United States enter into commercial arrangements with “the present Rulers of St Domingo,” a consular appointment at CapFrançais (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by Jacob Wagner as received 25 July; en dorsed by TJ: “to be Consul at Cadiz or Haiti”).
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To Thomas Munroe Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 4. 04. Your’s of July 31st. is recieved, and I am sorry to learn that our funds call for a contraction of our works. in this case every thing un essential in other parts must be given up to finish the Capitol, which is the main object. I will give you my thoughts on the several parts of the works, and leave to yourself on consultation with mr Lenthall & mr Blagden to modify them according to existing circumstances which can be sensible only to those on the spot. President’s house. the finishing the main sewer may be given up, as the small old one, if left open, can be kept open & will suffice for another year. the icehouse (or cellar) may be stopped the passage above stairs need not be done. the only things therefore to be persevered in there, is the bedroom and it’s appendages1 in the S.E. angle of the house above stairs, and the flooring of the East end above & below: & this last is per severed in merely because it is believed to be much advanced. The Highways. drop the additional arch to the Tyber, if not begun: repair temporarily the vents across the avenue, where they are not begun on a better scale, and repair the gravelling to the original height only. the work at the Waroffice will be too much for our funds. in this way we may produce a recruit from the fund of 1803. to that of 1804. Capitol. I think with mr Lenthall that the interior walls should be raised to the height of the basement story to support the external walls: at least that [all those] parts should be raised which form abutments for the exterior [walls.] if any of the central parts are not immediately necessary for [security], & they can be finished the next year, they might be omitted for the present. After doing as much of the interior as is essential, I should be for stopping all further cutting & purchasing of stone beyond what can be laid this year, & raising the external walls to the last dollar: and even on credit, where the contractors can lie out of their money till February. but these ideas are submitted to your modifications, on a view of the whole. Salutations & respect Th: Jefferson PrC (DLC); faint; at foot of text: “Mr. Munroe”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso.
1 Preceding
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three words interlined.
Notes on Information from Isaac Briggs [on or before 4 Aug. 1804]
Briggs Isaac considers the following persons in the Misipi territory as the Jacobins, enragés, of the place Cato West Thomas M. Green, brother in law of Cato West. judge Kerr Doctr. Shaw, postmaster, suspected of opening and detaining letters. Turner, the register. son in law of Cato West. MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 149:26086); undated, but see below; entirely in TJ’s hand; endorsed by TJ. TJ’s information was probably obtained from Isaac Briggs during the latter’s visit to Washington and the eastern states with Robert Williams during the spring and early summer of 1804. TJ was at Monticello when they arrived in Wash ington in midApril, but could have met with Briggs after his return to the capital on 13 May. Briggs was still in the vicinity in June and July, during which time he
traveled to Philadelphia and made pur chases for the president. TJ’s financial memoranda record payments to Briggs on 30 June for “mathematical instruments” and on 18 July for a refrigerator made by Briggs’s brotherinlaw Thomas Moore. Briggs also apparently visited Monticello sometime after TJ arrived there on 26 July, at which place he took charge of TJ’s letter to Benjamin Hawkins of 4 Aug. (Vol. 43:232, 51920, 53940, 671; mb, 2:1130, 1132, 11334; TJ to Thomas Whitney, 9 July).
From Richard Kennon Sir/ FinnieWood, Mecklenbg. Cty. Aug 5th. 1804 Your’s of the 20th. of last month, came to hand the 1st. inst (our last post day) too late, of course for me to return an answer by the same conveyance, I shall therefore avail my self of the mail from Hali fax CourtHouse, which passes Wyllie’s b.gh tomorrow— I should without hesitation declare to you, my willingness to accept the appointment which you have called on me to fill, was it not, for the shortness of the notice which I have received—I know it would be impossible to equip myself, and make certain necessary domestick arrangements, so as to be at the Station which may be appointed for my residence, as early as the first of Octr.—Could an extent of time be granted, it would give me pleasure, to declare my readiness to accept the Commission—But should the necessity of the occasion prevent this, I have only to regret, that I would be ready, at a short warning— So soon as I was informed of the cession of that Country, an Event, so important to the United States, I had determined to remove there, 188
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or to somewhere on the NavigableWaters, which flow into the Mis sissippi—for the carrying which design into effect, I had offered my Lands in the Country for sale—and whether I do or do not receive the Commission, which you have offered me, in terms so flattering to my feelings, it is a plan, which I am seriously determined to carry into effect I shall be anxious to receive your answer to this. You’l please direct to the PostOffice ChristiansVille in this County—Accept my assur ances of esteem and respect, and am Your’s— Richd. Kennon RC (MoSHi: Jefferson Papers); endorsed by TJ as received 14 Aug. and so re corded in SJL.
From John Thomson Mason Dear Sir Geo. Town 5th Augt 1804 As I have changed my residence and now consider the County of Washington in the State of Maryland my domicile, it is in my Judg ment improper that I should any longer hold the Office of Attorney of the United States for the District of Columbia which you have heretofore honored me with. In resigning this appointment permit me to offer you my thanks for the Confidence manifested in confering it upon me. It is proper that I should inform you that Williams and Ray com mitted upon suspicion of counterfieting Bank notes, or of passing them knowing them to be counterfiet, have obtained a postponement of their trial until the third monday in next month, upon the allega tion of wanting witnesses, from Georgia. The Court will then meet to try them, and at that time I shall probably be absent from the City Permit me Sir to mention to you as a candidate for the Office I now fill my friend Mr William Osborn Sprigg. He read law with me four years and afterwards spent a Season at William & Mary. He is a young man of great worth and merit. Independent of my personal attachment for him I feel a pleasure in recommending him to your notice, as a Young Man entirely worthy of it Accept if you please my best wishes and beleive me to be with sin cere regard and great respect Your Obedt Servt John T. Mason RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 11 Aug. and “Sprigg. Wm. Osborne. to be atty distr. v. J.T.M.” and
so recorded in SJL, where it is connected by a brace with the letter from John Mason of 8 Aug.
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5 AUGUST 1804 Philip Williams and Jacob Ray were committed for trial after first fleeing the district (Levi Lincoln to TJ, 20 June). On 9 Aug., James Davidson, cashier of the Washington branch of the Bank of the United States, informed David B. Mitch ell, the U.S. attorney for georgia, that the bank would pay for any costs associ ated with the transportation of witnesses to Washington. In orders of 31 Aug., Mitchell dispatched a deputy marshal to transport a witness, who was out on bail for receiving and passing a counterfeit bank note, from Greensboro, Georgia, to Washington. Mitchell’s orders and an ex tract of Davidson’s statement are in TJ’s papers (DLC: TJ Papers, 143:248212).
At some point TJ also received an indica tion that Williams and Ray remained flight risks. A jailer informed Mason on or be fore 9 Aug. that he had overheard a con versation between the prisoners in which Ray offered to “get Williams clear & suffer the punishment himself.” It would not be a problem, Ray reportedly said, “for he never saw a door locked three times which he could not open” (in same, 142:24712). It is uncertain when TJ re ceived these documents. He began re viewing a pardon request for Ray in 1806 (Petition of Jacob Ray, 16 May 1806; William Cranch and Nicholas Fitzhugh to TJ, 7 June 1806).
From Richard Richardson Dr Sir New york 5th August 1804 Inbolden By the Maney protestations of friendship from you towards Me Makes Me feel an obligation which I never shall forget! I Must Beg you to pardon Me for omiting writing to you till now from the Maney Difculties of My Situation In the westingees I never Could write to My Satisfaction to any of My friends—I Arrivd hear on the 15th of July from Jamaica on a British Bottom which I freightd with shugar and ginger My shugar I have sold to one of the Refiners for a leaven Dolars and a half pr Hundred weight My ginger I still have on hand I have Been Much Involved In Debt from Entering Into percession of the property left Me In that Contrey which I have got Clear At preasant after paying four thousand pounds to a house In London who had a Morgage on It for yearly supplys for It My wish is to sell It as soon as I Can get a purcheser But not knowing who to trust from so Many failures Makes Me vearey Cautious I never saw the Ilant of Jamaica In such want of Every article as when I left It our provisions we get from Cork But not one third of the Estates has Been suplide this year none to Be had at Cork and from the failure of the Murchents In the westingees and the planters Making short Crops for two years past Every thing Is vearey scarce and Dear pork @ alevin pound a Barrel Beef @ twelve Hearings such as we feed our negroes with five pound pr Barrel Butter six Shillings pr. pound none to Be sold I am Extreamly anctious to see you and the family which I hope are all well I have Been vearey Healthy since My stay In the westingees But vearey Much Dissatisfide from Circumstances which 190
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Did occur to Me two often for a person of My sentiments But always avoiding Every thing that was towards politicks It laboured In My own Breast Before I left Jamaica I advertised My property for sail My wish Is to goe on from hear to neworleans to see that Contrey Should I like I will purchase a shugar farm their as I have Been In the Manufacture of shugar Ever since I left you Any Advice from you on the situation of that Contrey will Be grately acknowledg I Have seen some Shugar Brought from their hear which Is vearey good and I Think It May Be Brought to surpass the Jamaica shugar In Some littel time And as I have spared no pains to Inform Myself on the Manufacture of Shugars I flatter Myself In Being useful to a new Contry A vearey searious Circumstance took place some littel time Before I left Jamaica among the Blacks In kingston A number of them found In percession of arms and a great quantitey of powder It seemed as If It Had Been Contemplated By person of Colour to Induce the Blacks to Rise Against the white peopel and Destroye them all these peopel are veary vearey numerous and the laws of the Contrey Compell them to Baere arms In Defence of the Contrey and they Consider It a hard ship not to Be Intitled to hold only a Certain quantity of land and negroes these peopel have the grater part of them Been sent to Scot land for their Eaducation By their fathurs and when they Return they are so Corupted they I fear will Soon Make a saint Dimingoe Busi ness of It Being In number three for one whiteman thy ariseing from the Black tribe they Retain More of their familey on that side than from their fathers I fear the Consequence will Be fatal And the se varetey Made use of By the white peopel In that Contrey will Make those poor wraches Reask their lives with the perswation of Being freed By these peopel I Shall Be glad to hear how far advancd you have got your house and what has Become of James Dinsmore wishing you a long life and A Continueation of health and happiness I Remain Dr Sir your veary Humble Servt Richard Richardson Ps please let Me hear from you By Return of post And the family I leave this on the 19th for n. orleans RC (MHi); at foot of first page: “please turn over”; endorsed by TJ as received 14 Aug. and so recorded in SJL.
pardon me: Richardson’s last letter to TJ was 21 May 1802.
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From Isaac Neufville Sir, Charleston South Carolina Augt. 6th. 1804. Death having put a period to the Sufferings of my revered and aged Parent, on the Evening of the 29th. ult.; it is with the utmost respect and diffidence, I offer myself to the Consideration of your Excellency, a Candidate to succeed him as Commissioner of the Loan Office for this state; embolden’d, in some degree, by assisting in the incipient Transactions, to the present Time, and humbly conceiving myself acquainted with the routine of the various duties of it.— In aid of this application, I beg leave to refer to the Treasurer of the United states, to whom I have the pleasure of being made known.— With the most respectful sentiments, I have the honor to be sir, Your Obedient Servant Isaac Neufville RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “To the President of the United states”; endorsed by TJ as received 21 Aug. and so recorded in SJL with nota tion: “to be Commr. loans.” Isaac Neufville (d. 1817) was a lifelong resident of Charleston whose father, John Neufville, had served as commissioner of loans for South Carolina since 1790. TJ with some reluctance appointed the younger Neufville to the position in Sep tember. In 1808, Neufville became part of a group of citizens who worked to es tablish a cotton factory in Charleston, the result of TJ’s call for an increase in the domestic production of cloth. In early 1809, Gallatin, frustrated by Neufville’s repeated neglects of duty as commissioner
of loans, removed him from that position. The South Carolina Homespun Company failed three years later. By the time of Neufville’s death, he had retired from community life, remembered in an obitu ary only as an amiable father of six (Rich ard W. Griffin, “An Origin of the New South: The South Carolina Homespun Company, 18081815,” Business History Review, 35 [1961], 4059, 413; Charleston Carolina Gazette, 21 Oct. 1808; Charleston Courier, 2 Dec. 1808; Charleston Times, 17 Apr. 1817; Vol. 18:99; TJ to Gallatin, 1 Sep. 1804; Gallatin to TJ, 15 Feb. 1809). For treasurer Thomas Tudor Tucker’s endorsement, see Gallatin to TJ, 20 Aug.
From Thomas Newton Dr Sir Norfolk 6th Augst. 1804— This will be handed you by my youngest Son George, who is trav eling for his health, being a stranger in your part of the Country, I beg leave to introduce him to you & shall be happy in making returns to any of your freinds traveling this way, with my best wishes I am respectfully Yr. Obt Set. Thos Newton— RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 23 Sep. and “by George Newton” and so recorded in SJL.
george Newton was 18 years old (vmhb, 30 [1922], 307).
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From Vicomte de Pastey Sir, [6 Aug. 1804] I have for three years past been a witness of the infinite good the American People have happily enjoyed. Fortunate, and unoidable re sult of a wise and impartial Administration! I most humbly beg leave to dedicate to your Excellency the triffling production of an hour’s leisure: it is a feeble, but sincere hommage I pay, with the most profound respect, to those distinguished vertues, which an admiring World venerates in silence. Deign to accept of the assurances of the highest Esteem of your most humbe. & obt Servant Le vicomte de Pastey L. D. RC (ViW: TuckerColeman Collec tion); undated; written at head of printed poem, “Chanson d’un Emigrè Francais rèléguè aux Etats Unis d’Amérique,” with dateline Wilmington, 6 Aug.; at head of text: “To his Excellency Thomas Jeffer son President of the United States of América”; endorsed by TJ as received 14 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. Pastey’s production was a three stanza poem in French, the translated title
of which was “Song of a French Emi grant Transported to the United States.” The work, signed by “L.D.D.” and also printed in the Baltimore Telegraphe and Daily Advertiser on 23 Aug., blasted Pastey’s native country as the empire of tyrants and praised the new hemisphere, where “L’age d’or est de retour,” the golden age has returned. The “sagesse profonde,” or profound wisdom, of the American republic would make it a birth place of the arts and of peace.
From Daniel Brent Sir, Dept of State, Augt 7. 1804. The Marshal of this District left in my hands a few days ago, in the absence of Mr Wagner, the enclosed list of persons, as suitable Char acters for Justices of the peace in Washington County; and he in formed me at the same time that it was your wish, a Commission should be made out, & forwarded to you, for the persons recom mended by him. I take the liberty therefore, the Chief Clerk being still absent, to forward a Blank Commission to you herewith, as well as the Marshal’s memorandum. I have the Honor to be, with the highest Respect, Sir, Your Mo: Obedt & very Hble servt. Danl Brent. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Presi dent of the U States”; endorsed by TJ as received 12 Aug. and “Justices for Wash ington” and so recorded in SJL. Enclo sure: undated list of persons in Daniel Carroll Brent’s hand, naming Samuel
Hamilton, Samuel N. Smallwood, and Robert Alexander, Jr. (MS in same). Other enclosure not found. it was your wish: see TJ to Daniel Carroll Brent, 22 July.
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From John C. Delacoste Sir. New york 7th August 1804. Confident that all what relates to arts and Sciences, and tends to diffuse the knowledge thereof meets with Your Excellency’s approba tion, and persuaded that his paternal sollicitude for the prosperity and happiness of the extensive empire, of which he is the illustrious head, extends to every part thereof, I make bold to present him with a plan which I have proposed to the citizens of Newyork for securing to them the institution which I have begun, under the denomination of Cabinet of Natural history, and to Sollicit his own powerful and commanding influence for its Success. My infant institution, although supported by the approbation and patronage of number of gentlemen of the first respectability, and not withstanding some of the most emminent characters of the scientific Line, have publickly acknowledged its merit and utility, and have highly commended and approved the methodical and Classical ar rangement I have made of the collections, it is composed of, is so little supported by the Citizens at large, that unable to keep it any longer by my own means, I have taken the resolution to give it over, at a loss of one half of what it cost me, to any number of gentlemen, who may form a Society for that purpose. This last subscription, although1 headed by emminent characters of this city, meets with the same fate, as the one opened for the annual support of the institution, so that I have no prospect of obtaining the number of subscribers required, soon enough to save it from destruc tion, unless the notice of the wealthy inhabitants of the city should be attracted by some extraordinary inducement, which would excite their emulation. None would prove more efficacious than to see the name of the August Chief Magistrate of the Union, at the head of a sub scription opened for their private benefit. This favour I make bold to sollicit for the preservation of the insti tution to the Lovers of arts and sciences, and to the community at large. I have the honour to be with the most profound respect. Sir Your Excellencys. Most humble and most obedt Servant Delacoste RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 14 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. Enclo sure: prospectus for a subscription for a natural history society in New York City, 5 July 1804; the plan is to raise $5,000 in capital by shares of $50 each and to use
up to $1,500 of the money to buy for the city “the useful and interresting estab lishment begun by Delacoste & Curling”; with subjoined list of 31 “Gentlemen who have Subscribed” (MS in same; in Dela coste’s hand).
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7 AUGUST 1804 John C. Delacoste (ca. 1754ca. 1808), originally from France, was in the Bata vian Republic colony of Demerara in South America by 1793. His property was lost to confiscation after the British occupied the colony in 1796. He wrote a book critical of the Dutch governor and petitioned the Batavian Republic to introduce a gradual end to slavery. By 1804, Delacoste, with Robert B. Curling, had amassed a sig nificant collection of animal, mineral, and vegetable specimens, which he put on display in New York City. After visiting Delacoste’s museum, Charles Willson Peale remarked that “it was a pleasing one on account of the neatness of all its arrangement” and mentioned that the col lection contained several quadrupeds and birds that he had never seen before. Dela coste’s museum proved unprofitable and he sold it in 1805 to the college at Prince ton, where his specimens formed the basis of the school’s natural history collection. Following Delacoste’s departure from New York, he attempted to form another natural history muesum at the College of William and Mary, but died before the plan could be completed (Gert Oostindie, “‘British Capital, Industry and Perse verance’ versus Dutch ‘Old School’? The
Dutch Atlantic and the Takeover of Ber bice, Demerara and Essequibo, 17501815,” Low Countries Historical Review, 127 [2012], 478; Angelie Sens, “La Révolu tion Batave et l’esclavage: les [im]possi bilités de l’abolition de la traite des noirs et de l’esclavage [17801814],” Annales historiques de la Révolution française, 326 [2001], 6970; Peale, Papers, v. 2, pt. 2:731; Sally Gregory Kohlstedt, “Cu riosities and Cabinets: Natural History Museums and Education on the Antebel lum Campus,” Isis, 79 [1988], 411; Spen cer F. Baird, ed., Annual Record of Science and Industry for 1873 [New York, 1874], 2645; New York Diary, 9 Mch. 1793; New York Daily Advertiser, 3 May 1804; New York American Citizen, 13 June 1805; account of sales of the estate of John C. Delacoste, 14 Mch. 1808 [MS in ViWC: Robert Anderson Papers]; Delacoste to TJ, 27 May 1805; Delacoste to TJ, 10 Apr. 1807). The gentlemen of the first re spectability who subscribed for shares of Delacoste’s “Cabinet of Natural his tory” included Morgan Lewis, Aaron Burr, Rufus King, and DeWitt Clinton. 1
MS: “althoug.”
To John Wayles Eppes Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 7. 04. Your letters of July 16. & 29. both came to me on the 2d [instant.] I recieve with great delight the information of the perfect health [of our] dear infants, and hope to see yourself, the family, and them, [as soon as] circumstances admit. with respect to Melinda I have too [many] already to leave here in idleness when I go away; and at Washington I prefer white servants, who when they misbehave can be exchanged. John knew he was not to expect her society but when he should [be] at Monticello, & then subject to the casualty of her being here or not. you mention a horse to be had of a fine bay, & again that he is of the colour of your horse. I do not well recollect the shade of yours, but if you think this one would do with Castor or Fitzpartner, I would take him at the price you mention, but should be glad to have as much breath for the paiment as the seller could admit, & at any rate not less than 90. days. I know no finer horse than yours, 195
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but he is much too fiery to be trusted in a carriage, the only use I should [have] for him, while Arcturus remains. he is also too small. I write this letter in the hope you will be here before you can recieve it, but on the possibility that the cause which detained you at the date of yours, may continue. my affectionate salutations and esteem attend the family at Eppington & yourself. Th: Jefferson P.S. by your mentioning that Francis will be your constant compan ion, I am in hopes I shall have him with you during the session of Congress. RC (LM); torn; words in brackets supplied from PrC; addressed: “John W. Eppes at Eppington near Coleville to be forwarded by Fredericksburg [. . .] Richmond to Coleville”; franked. PrC (CSmH); endorsed by TJ in ink on verso.
To Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 7. 04. I inclose you the letters of Bishp. Madison recommending Samuel Travis as mate of a revenue cutter vice Parish resigned, and mr Nich olas’s in concurrence. the young man called on me, seems to be about 24. or 25. is personally unknown to me, but his family well known. his father was a man of property, near Williamsburg, long a repre sentative in the legislature, and a superzealous republican during the war; much entrusted by the state in whatever concerned it’s then naval affairs. as to himself I have a perfect reliance in the candor of all Bishop Madison’s recommendations, and am therefore disposed in his favor if you know no one better entitled. in this I will do whatever you think best. Affectionate salutations & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (NHi); at foot of text: “The Secretary of the Treasury”; endorsed by Gallatin. PrC (DLC). Enclosures: (1) Bishop James Madison to TJ, 26 July, not found (see Appendix iv). (2) Wilson Cary Nicholas to TJ, 5 Aug., not found (see Appendix iv).
From Levett Harris Sir! St. Petersburg, 7. August, 1804. The liberty which I have thus taken to address your Excellency, whilst it is dictated by the profoundest deference, is at the same time attended with a delicacy its subject in a degree excites; but which I trust, will not be considered to require the preface of an Apology. 196
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On viewing the situation of Europe the present War, and the vari ous and extraordinary circumstances which have marked the conduct of the different contending powers, the attention of your Excellency cannot fail to be arrested by the position Which has been taken by the Emperor of Russia, whose views and measures influence most on the politicks of Europe. A Prince educated, as he may be said to have been, under the great disadvantages of luxury and effeminacy, although with many dignified and wise examples from his immediate decendants, which however by being accompanied with many precedents of unfortunate and fatal policy, were rather calculated injuriously to effect the passions and prejudices of their august heir. It was thus hardly to be supposed at the early period of life at which he acceeded to the Imperial dignity, that the commencement of his career would have been distinguished by the many traits of prudence which have so eminently adorned it. A Prince, whose principal study and attention are manifestly en gaged in providing the prosperity and happiness of his subjects, and by the sapience of whose measures, in the great political sphere in which he moves, has not only preserved his Empire from the horrors of war, by which it has recently been frequently menaced, but has given to Europe an example of a knowledge to appreciate the bless ings of peace tending to establish auspicious presages; and in the meri torious Character of mediation, in which he is unceasing in his efforts, essays to reconcile the animosities of the belligerant Nations. Amid the jarring opinions which are said to have often disturbed his Cabinet, and with the Spirit of resentment which has at times ani mated his Counsel against the ambitious designs of a principal conti nental power, the pacifick temper of the monarch has never changed, and a steady attachment to the true interests of his Empire has been invariably preserved, with a dignity of forbearance calculated to rec oncile the most discordant passions. In leaving it to your Excellency to pronounce the admiration which the magnanimous conduct of the Emperor of Russia has every where excited, my gratification cannot be considered less in having the honor of being placed in a situation to behold an union of this greatness of character with the most amiable and gracious deportment, and of being the medium of conveying to my Government the most signal proofs of his regard for the United States. The flattering attention with which I have been honored at his Court, as the Agent of a Nation for whose Government his Majesty has personally expressed to me his high esteem, and the wisdom and prudence of whose measures, his Ministers have assured me, were a 197
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subject on which he frequently dwelt with interest, are a communica tion not less agreeable to me to make personally to your Excellency. I have been induced to avail myself of this occasion to present to your Exclly. a bust of the Prince whose Character I have attempted to eulogize, and in its correct resemblance, you will be led to assimilate these characteristicks of greatness and goodness which he so remark ably unites. I pray your Exelly. will accept the same, with the Assurances of the perfect respect and Consideration, with which I have the honor to Subscribe myself, Your most Obedient, & most faithful servant, Levett Harris RC (DLC); above dateline: “July 26,” the date by the Julian calendar; at foot of text: “To his Excellency Thomas Jeffer son Esquire. President of the United States of America. Washington”; endorsed by TJ as received 8 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. In 1803, TJ appointed Philadelphia merchant Levett Harris (ca. 17791839) to the consulate in St. Petersburg, Rus sia. As consul, Harris sought the help of Emperor Alexander I in securing the re lease of the Philadelphia sailors held in Tripoli, a diplomatic interposition that TJ and Madison were critical of. In 1813, Harris became secretary to the peace com mission to end the War of 1812 and, in 1814, the chargé d’affaires to Russia. Ac cusations of misconduct prevented his appointment as minister to Russia, but he was later made chargé d’affaires to France in 1833. After returning to the United States, Harris enjoyed a position of prom inence in Philadelphia, and in 1821 was elected to the American Philosophical Soci ety. Harris corresponded with TJ through
out his presidency and retirement, ex changed books with him, and visited him at Monticello. In 1826, prior to TJ’s death, Harris served as a member of a Philadel phia committee coming to the former presi dent’s financial relief and personally sub scribed for $100 (James Berton Rhoads, “Harris, Lewis, and the Hollow Tree,” American Archivist, 25 [1962], 295314; Nina N. Bashkina and others, eds., The United States and Russia: the Beginning of Relations, 1765-1815 [Washington, D.C., 1980], 3912; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 4:466, 524; 6:4534; 7:303, 3745; 8:3941; Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser, 17 May 1826; Daily National Intelligencer, 4 July 1826; aps, Proceedings, 1 [1839], 149; 22, pt. 3 [1885], 499; jep, 1:447, 453, 456; 2:353, 3901; 4:314, 321; rs, 1:37980; 2:4668; 4:99; 7:4334; 11:562, 5856; 13:1189; Vol. 39:214, 473; Vol. 43:2668, 5902; Har ris to TJ, 15 June 1820). The bust of Emperor Alexander I was a copy of the original made by Russian sculptor Fedot Shubin, circa 1803 (Stein, Worlds, 2323).
To James Madison Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 7. 04. Your’s of the 4th. came to hand last night & I now return you the letters of Livingston, Bourne, Lee, Lynch, Villandry & mr King. Stewart’s is retained for communication with the P.M. Genl. I send also for your perusal the letter of a mr Farquhar of Malta. mr Living 198
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ston’s letters (two short ones excepted) being all presscopies & very bad ones, I can make nothing distinct of them. when manuscript cop ies are recieved I shall be glad to read them. the conduct of the com missioners at Paris merits examination. but what mr Livingston means by delays on our part in the execution of the Convention is perfectly incomprehensible. I do not know that a single day was unnecessarily lost on our part. in order however to lessen1 the causes of appeal to the Convention, I sincerely wish that Congress at the next session may give to the Orleans territory a legislature to be chosen by the people, as this will be advancing them quite as fast as the rules of our government will admit; and the evils which may arise from the irregu larities which such a legislature may run into, will not be so serious as leaving them the pretext of calling in a foreign Umpire between them & us. the answer to mr Villandry should certainly be what you mention, that the objects of his application are only within the com petence of Congress, to whom they must apply by petition, if they chuse it. perhaps it would be but kind & candid to add that as there has been no example of such measures taken by Congress as they ask, they should consider whether it would not be wise in them to act for themselves as they would do were no such measures expected. I ex pect daily to recieve answers from the principal officers for the Or leans government. these recieved, I will proceed to make out the whole arrangement, and inclose it to you, asking your counsel on it without delay. it will not be practicable to submit it to the other mem bers, but I have so often conversed with them on the subject as to possess their sentiments. as we count on the favor of a family visit could you accomodate that in point of time so as that we might be together at making out the final list? Affectionate salutations & assur ances of friendship Th: Jefferson RC (DLC: Madison Papers); at foot of text: “The Secretary of State.” PrC (DLC); faint, date illegible. Recorded in SJL at 8 Aug. with notation: “Livingston’s lres. Orleans. Villandry.” Enclosure: Richard Farquhar to TJ, 18 Mch.
what you mention: Madison to TJ, 4 Aug. 1 TJ
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here canceled “remove.”
From James Madison Dear Sir Tuesday morning Aug. 7. 1804 I know not what to make of the inclosed letter. The purport of it clashes with every calculation founded in probability; and yet it is impossible to disregard altogether the reliance which Col. Monroe seems to place on what he writes. We shall be better able to judge on seeing the details and the authority for them which he promises. 5 inches of rain have fallen since sunday morning. Two of the showers, one of them yesterday abt. 2 OC. have been very injurious to the soil in our Corn fields. The rain however had become essential to them. We are now promised good crops in all high situations. The crops of wheat in good land of a dry soil, & Southern exposure, will turn out at least half—and the quality pretty good. Yrs always, with respectful attachment. James Madison RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as a letter dated “Aug. 7. (for 14.) 04.” received from the State Department on 14 Aug. and so recorded in SJL, with notation “Monroe’s lre.”; also endorsed by TJ: “Monroe’s lre on coalition Fr. & Engl.” Enclosure: James Monroe to Madison, London, 5 May, summarizing an “interesting com munication” lately received from a re spectable source regarding an alleged agreement, made at the “commenc’ment
of the late war,” between Great Britain and the Bourbon royal family; in ex change for the former uniting with the latter to restore the Bourbons to power, France would assist Britain in recovering its former American colonies; Monroe’s source “mentioned some facts & circum stances wh. strongly support the com munication,” which Monroe will send in cipher (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:15860).
To Henry Dearborn Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 8. 04. I last night recieved the account of Genl. Irvine’s death, and at the same time the inclosed applications for the continuance of the office in his family, which are certainly very strong. the single one in behalf of Capt Jones must be merely idle, as it is most improbable that he would accept of it. I inclose the whole however for your information. Irvine is a real loss to us. Not having heard from you since I left Washington I conclude you recovered your health sufficiently to proceed on your journey. I shall be anxious to hear that you continue well and arrive safely at home. be so good as to present me in friendly terms to your neighbor mr Vaughan whom I envy you; and to accept for mrs Dearborne & your self my respectful & affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson 200
8 AUGUST 1804 PrC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Sec retary at War.” Notation in SJL: “Irvine. Jones.” Enclosures: (1) Thomas Leiper to TJ, 30 July. (2) Elizabeth C. Leiper to TJ, 31 July. (3) Bangor & Waterman to TJ, 1 Aug. (4) William Jones to TJ, 2 Aug. (5) John Beckley to TJ, 3 Aug. (6) Thomas Lloyd to TJ, 30 July. All en closures received 7 Aug. but not found; see Appendix iv.
genl. irvine’s death: on 29 July, William Irvine, the superintendent of mil itary stores at Philadelphia, died of cholera (Philadelphia Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser, 1 Aug.). In 1801, William jones declined an appointment as secretary of the navy (Vol. 33:416).
To Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 8. 04. I inclose you the application of Saml. Lewis to be the successor of De Kraft, which he has erroneously addressed to me. I believe you know him & his talents. they are certainly considerable as a draughts man. I remember that on a former enquiry, I found there had been some allegations against him, which lessened his estimation. but prob ably you know more of this than I do. I expect your opinion as to M.D. for A.G. US. and yet, in the event of Pinckney’s acceptance of the place of judge of the Orleans district (in which case W. must be ap pointed) I shall be much at a loss for an Atty. for that district on transferring D. to the office here. but this is so important as to be entitled to be first served. I still delay the succession to Bowen for information. Chisman, Collector of Hampton is dead, and a mr Arm stead is recommended for the place. I have this day written to W. C. Nicholas to enquire who would be the best successor. perhaps indeed his personal acquaintance there may enable him to recommend. I shall hold back the commission however till I hear from you. Affec tionate salutations & great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (NHi); addressed: “Albert Galla tin Secretary of the Treasury New York”; franked; endorsed by Gallatin. PrC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “Lewis—Pinckney. Dickerson. Armistead.” Enclosure: Sam uel Lewis, Sr., to TJ, 29 July.
allegations: see Vol. 32:4624. m.d.: Mahlon Dickerson. w.: Robert Williams. Mount Edward chisman died on 30 July (Baltimore Telegraphe and Daily Advertiser, 15 Aug.).
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From James T. Leonard Sir New York Aug 8th. 1804 I have the honor to inform your excellency that being returned with public dispatches & letters from the Honble: Robt. R. Living ston Minister of the United States at Paris, address,d to your excel lency, and to the Honble. the Secretary of state which letters of your Excellency was accompanied by the Tables of the celebrated “Vol ney” on the Soil & climate of the United states, written in French & bound in calf and gilt, and which could not be safely conveyed by the Public Post, has been by the command of the Honble. Mr. Gallatin, (who is at present in this city) deposited with David Gelston Esq. collector of this Port to be forwarded by Water carriage to your excel lency as the safest and least liable to damage which would occur in a stage conveyance. I have further to inform, that your excellencies letters which I had the honor to be entrusted with, address,d to sundry persons in Paris, have been safely delivered except the one directed to General La Valette, which has been deposited with the Minister Plenipotentiary at Paris at his instance, with the intention of being delivered when the Minister, should become acquainted with the General’s residence. I have the honor to be with very Great respect your Excellencies most Obedient & most devoted servant James T Leonard RC (MoSHi: Jefferson Papers); at head of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 14 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. James T. Leonard (ca. 17781832), of New York, received a midshipman’s com mission in 1799 and served on a number of frigates during the QuasiWar and in the Mediterranean before getting a series of postings in home waters. An acting lieutenant by 1804, when he was chosen to safeguard the stock certificates for the purchase of Louisiana from France, he was formally promoted to that rank in 1807. During the War of 1812, Leonard served as master of the Madison, a ship then based at Sackets Harbor, New York. He was courtmartialed in 1813 for not properly attending the ship and for “dis solute and immoral practices,” namely, liv ing openly with a mistress and attempt ing to pass her off as his wife. Suspended for a year, Leonard soon obtained the
rank of captain but was assigned to a non prestigious post on Lake Champlain, where he remained for the better part of his career (New-York Advertiser, 14 Apr. 1821; New York Evening Post, 9 Nov. 1832; jep, 2:47, 607, 615; asp, Naval Affairs, 1:1080; 2:444; ndbw, Register, 31; William S. Dudley and Michael J. Crawford, eds., The Naval War of 1812: A Documentary History, 3 vols. [Washing ton, D.C., 19852002], 2:4414; Christo pher McKee, A Gentlemanly and Honorable Profession: The Creation of the U.S. Naval Officer Corps, 1794-1815 [Annapo lis, 1991], 4412; Vol. 42:315n). address,d to your excellency: Leonard likely forwarded letters to TJ from Pierre Samuel Du Pont de Nemours (of 5 May), Louis Pio (of 6 May), and Volney (of 7 May). The three letters were recorded in SJL as received 11 Aug. For the letters that TJ entrusted to Leonard, see Vol. 42:31517, 3738, 3801.
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From John Mason Sir George Town 8 August, 1804 My Neighbour Mr. W. O. Sprigg having intimated to me his Wish to fill the office of Attorney for the District of Columbia, lately, as I understand, resigned by Mr. Mason I beg your Permission to state to you my Knowledge of his general character and habits. Of his legal capacity, I am not qualified to give an opinion, this, I can only say, I have heard very respectably spoken of, by professional Men. I have known Mr Sprigg, since he has been a resident of this Town (six or seven years) a Student and practitioner of Law. I can with the greatest confidence state that he has uniformly stood high in the Esteem of his acquaintances as a Man of the greatest candour, and strictest Integrity, he has been an unshaken Republican from his ear liest youth, and his general Deportment, regular habits, & attention to Business have been such as have very justly inspired the confidence of all parties.— A double motive has induced me Sir to trouble you with this Letter, Friendship for Mr Sprigg, and a Desire, lest he should not be known to you, to possess you, with the strictest truth so far as deposed on me, of the Character which an Applicant for office bears in the com munity in which he lives— I pray that they may be received as my apology for the Intrusion— With very great Respect & Esteem I have the honor to be Sir Your mo ob Hbl Sert J: Mason RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Aug. and “Sprigg. W.O. to be Distr. Att. Col. v. J.T.M” and
so recorded in SJL, where it is connected by a brace with the letter from John Thom son Mason of 5 Aug.
To Wilson Cary Nicholas Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 8. 04. By the inclosed which I recieved last night, you will percieve that mr Chisman, Collector of Hampton is dead. the writer, mr Booker, who is unknown to me, recommends Robt. Armistead, also unknown. he says nothing of the politics of the candidate which generally au thorises a presumption that they are not with the government. can you, from your present knolege, recommend a successor, and if not, will you be so good as to take measures for such information as will enable you to recommend a successor? we were in hopes to have 203
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seen you this court, and lament the indisposition which prevents it, & which I hope is removed. the death of Genl. Irvine is the only news I get by the mail. in the present distracted politics of that city he is a sensible loss to us, & a much greater to a wife & 9. children. Accept affectionate salutations & assurances of great esteem & respect Th: Jefferson RC (ViU); at foot of text: “W. C. Nicholas.” Enclosure: George Booker to TJ, 31 July, not found (see Appendix iv).
To Benjamin Rush Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 8. 04. Your favor of the 1st. inst. came to hand last night. the embarras ment of answering propositions for office negatively, and the incon veniencies which have sometimes arisen from answering affirmatively, even when the affirmative is intended, has led to the general rule of leaving the answer to be read in the act of appointment or non appointment whenever either is manifested. I depart from the rule however in the present case, that no injury may arise from that sus pension of opinion which would be removed at once by a communica tion of the fact that there is no probability that Colo. Monroe will quit his present station at any time now under contemplation. the depar ture of a person as his secretary, not long since, at his particular re quest, proves he has no such intention,1 and certainly we do not wish it, as his services give the most perfect satisfaction. we had begun by appointing secretaries of legation, for the purpose of giving young men opportunities of qualifying themselves for public service: but desireable & useful as this would have been, it’s aptness to produce discord has obliged us to abandon it, & to leave the ministers to ap point their own private secretaries, whose dependance on their prin cipal secures a compatibility of temper. I shall be happy to recieve your pamphlet, as I am whatever comes from you. I have also a little volume, a mere & faithful compilation which I shall some of these days ask you to read as containing the exemplification of what I ad vanced in a former letter as to the excellence of ‘the Philosophy of Jesus of Nazareth.’ Accept affectionate salutations & assurances of esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (Mrs. John S. Ames, Jr., North Easton, Massachusetts, 1950); at foot of text: “Dr. Rush.” PrC (DLC).
your favor of the 1st.: Rush’s let ter to TJ of 1 Aug., which has not been found, contained a request that his son
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8 AUGUST 1804 Richard be made a secretary of legation (Appendix iv; Rush to TJ, 29 Aug.). John H. Purviance, the secretary of legation at London, had decided to return to the United States. His departure was subsequently delayed (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:467, 49n; 9:87n). your pamphlet: possibly the fourth edition of Rush’s An Inquiry into the Effects of Ardent Spirits Upon the Human Body and Mind, published in Philadel phia in August (Relfs Philadelphia Gazette, 9 Aug.; Sowerby, No. 980).
In March 1804, TJ had bound in leather and gilt his octavo volume of “The Philosophy of Jesus of Nazareth” (Statement of Account with John March, 12 Mch.). a former letter: TJ to Rush, 21 Apr. 1803. 1 TJ first wrote “no such intention,” al tered it to “no intention to quit his pres ent calling,” and then changed it back to the original wording.
From Samuel Harrison Smith Dear Sir Washington Aug. 8. 1804 I have the pleasure of acknowledging, with thanks, your favor of the 31st ult. which has enabled me to frame a paragraph in such a manner as to rescue the statement heretofore made from the imputa tion of intentional misrepresentation. I have only to regret your hav ing, thro mistake, sent the proceedings of the House of Burgesses on their controversy with lord Dunmore, instead of those of the Con vention. I have purposely terminated the paragraph, so as to admit fit extracts from the Answer to lord Norths proposition, and will there fore be much obliged to you for the proceedings of the Convention in relation to this point. Permit me to ask as an additional favor any in teresting documents you may possess bearing upon the great events of the revolution. These, together with the principles with wch. they are connected, ought, in my mind, to be at all times thrown into prom inent view. Time and success has covered them with a sacred worth. They may, if I may be allowed the expression, be called the religion of a republican’s politics—prejudice, equally with reason, has conse crated them in the hearts of our countrymen. As it is principally during the summer that I find time for conduct ing political discussion—the debates occupying actively the winter— I should be happy in any papers of the nature referred to— With sentiments of unfeigned personal as well as political respect I am yr. ob. servt. Saml. H. Smith RC (DLC); addressed: “President of United States Monticello (Virga.)”; franked; postmarked 9 Aug.; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Aug. and so recorded in SJL.
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From Gideon Granger Dear Sir. Suffield Connecticut Augt: 9th. 1804. I take the liberty to inclose a Letter which I have recd from Mr: Bates: also 1 One from a Mr: Morgan addressed to you through my care, the object of which I know not; also one from Mr: Bishop. I have conversed fully with Mr: Bishop in relation to the Suspicion of his being the Author of Aristides, and for myself am fully persuaded that the suspicion is unfounded and that he was not, directly or indi rectly, concerned in that production. I have just recd. a Letter from Govr: Claiborne Dated “New Or leans 17th. June 1804” in which he says “The blanks necessary for making the appointments (of postmasters) have miscarried. My im pression is that for the present four post Offices between Fort Adams & New Orleans will be sufficient One of which ought to be at Baton Rouge: but I fear an exception will be taken to an establishment at that place by the Spanish Authorities. I have been formally notified by Governor Folch of Pensacola that the exercise of any Authority on the part of the United States in West Florida will be considered by him as an Outrage against the King his Master &c.” Again. “As soon as the blank commissions are received, I shall se lect the postmasters &c.” Under these circumstances and bearing in mind a late conversation which passed between us in relation to those Offices I have felt it my duty to wait your orders before I sent forward new papers for the Appointments. I feel myself delicately situated in this business. The Law of Congress directs me to run the mail. to do this I must pass over the contested Territory. If I have a right to run the mail through the Territory—then it appears to me my duty to extend to the Citi zens residing on the post roads the Common convenience experi enced by the rest of the Citizens from the establishmt. of suitable post Offices. I have accordingly written to Govr: Claiborne and informed him, that under the circumstances I should not feel myself authorized in sending forward new appointments without the Special order of the President. The Republicans in Massachusetts & Connecticut are in the high est Spirit and will make a mighty effort this fall. The Opposition are in dispair—There is no falshood too base and no Calumny too con temptible for them to utter. I pray you to reckon me among your most Sincere friends Gidn Granger 206
9 AUGUST 1804 RC (DLC); addressed: “Thomas Jef ferson Esq:—Monticello Virginia”; en dorsed by TJ as received 18 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures: (1) Tarle ton Bates to [Granger], Pittsburgh, 17 July; having learned that Matthew Er nest is to be removed from his position as collector at Detroit and that his replace ment will likely be someone from that area, Bates hopes that Granger might mention the name of Frederick Bates; recognizing that Granger does not know Bates, he does not request a recommen dation and notes that Bates is unaware of this entreaty; he mentions also turmoil over the choice of postmaster in Pitts burgh (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; en dorsed by TJ: “Bates Frederick to be Collectr. Detroit v. Matthew Ernest”). (2) Jonathan Morgan, Jr., to TJ, 3 Aug. (3) Abraham Bishop to Granger, New Haven, 6 Aug., noting that “it has been stated at Washington” that while Bishop was in New York City he wrote the pam
phlet signed by “Aristides,” or at least part of it; he hopes Granger will be able to “repel” the rumor and insists that he was in New York for less than a day in December 1803, never entered a printing shop, and had no knowledge of the pam phlet until Granger showed it to him; he considers the pamphlet’s contents to be against the interests of any “friend of the present administration” (RC in DLC). recd from mr: bates: for an earlier recommendation of Frederick Bates, see Samuel Tupper to TJ, 15 Mch. The proBurr pamphlet signed aris tides and entitled Examination of the Various Charges Exhibited against Aaron Burr, Esq. was the work of William P. Van Ness (Vol. 42:1501n). 1 MS: “alose,” Granger perhaps being distracted by “inclose” just above this word on his page.
From Dominick A. Hall Sir Columbia So. Carolina Aug. 9. ’04 I have had the honor to receive your letter expressing a desire to appoint me District Judge of the territory of Orleans. Should you be pleased to make the appointment I will accept it and immediately prepare to proceed to the territory. Permit me Sir, to avail my self of the occasion to offer you my warmest thanks for the confidence with which you have honored me, and to assure you that I am with Senti ments of the greatest Respect and Consideration Your very obt. hmble Servt. Dom: A: Hall RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 21 Aug. and “accepts as Distr. judge Orleans” and so recorded in SJL. your letter: TJ to Hall, 20 July.
Writing to Madison on 18 Sep., Hall stated that he had yet to receive his com mission and worried that his letter of ac ceptance to TJ had miscarried. He reiter ated his intention to accept the office (RC in DNA, RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “accepts office of judge”).
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From Philip Turpin Dear Sir Salisbury, August 9th 1804— Mr. John H. Smith, a Grandson of my sister Harris (whom per haps you may remember) has earnestly requested me to employ the Interest which he supposes me to possess with you, in his behalf. Mr. Smith is a respectable young Man; has had a tolerably good educa tion, and is, I have reason to think, capable of due application to busi ness. Sometime since, he wrote a Twelvemonth under Mr. Price reg ester of the LandOffice in this State, whose testimony in Mr. Smith’s favour is herewith enclos’d. Mr. Smith is at present in the state of Kentucky, but wishes to try his fortune in the Indiana Territory, and humbly solicits an appointment to the regestership of one of those LandOffices which he understands, are to be open’d in that State. Should not this be attainable, he will be satisfied with a surveyor’s Place, or any other office you may be pleas’d to confer. Thus, dear Sir, I have taken the liberty of making known to you Mr. Smith’s request. I consider him as a young Gentleman of mod esty and merit; and doubt not his endeavouring to act with zeal & fidelity in any business which might be committed to his care. I must apologise, Dr. Sir, for giving you this trouble, which I hope you will have the goodness to excuse. Accept, dear Sir, my sincerest wishes for your health and happi ness, and beleive me to be, with the greatest respect, your most obt. hble. Servt. Philip Turpin RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); addressed: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Presidt. of the U. States” and “now at Monticello near Milton” interlined in place of “City of Washington”; franked; postmarked Richmond, 14 Aug.; en dorsed by TJ as received 16 Aug. and “Smith John to be Surveyor” and so re corded in SJL. Enclosure: statement of William Price, dated at Richmond, 7 Aug., describing John Smith as an enterprising young man who had applied industry and
attention to his unpaid post at the land office and who is “deserving of Public Pa tronage” (same). you may remember: Philip Turpin and his sister, Obedience Turpin Harris, were TJ’s first cousins through his aunt, Mary Jefferson Turpin (William Clayton Torrence, “Thomas and William Branch of Henrico and Some of their Descen dants,” wmq, 1st ser., 25 [1916], 111; Vol. 6:330n).
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From John Brown Sir Frankfort 10th. August 1804 A letter from you addressed to my Brother James Brown reached the post Office in Lexington a few days ago & was forwarded by the next Mail to Natchez where he has halted for the Summer having set out with his family for New Orleans in May last. I have thought it expedient to give this information in order to account to you for the delay which will necessarily attend his answer. The General Election for this State took place on Monday last. Colo. Greenup was chosen Governor for the next four years by an unanimous vote. I have not as yet heard from all the Congressional Districts but expect the present Members have all been reelected. I have the honor to be very respectfully your most obt. Sert. J: Brown RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr President U.S.”; endorsed by TJ as received 3 Sep. but recorded in SJL under 4 Sep. letter from you: TJ to James Brown, 20 July.
Except in the contest for lieutenant gov ernor, won by independent John Caldwell, Kentucky Republicans swept the 6 Aug. election, including, as Brown had pre dicted, the return of all six congres sional incumbents (Nashville Tennessee Gazette, and Mero District Advertiser, 22 Aug. 1804).
From William Cranch and Nicholas Fitzhugh, with Jefferson’s Order Washington August 10th. 1804.
In the absence of the Chief Judge, the undersigned assistant Judges of the Circuit Court of the District of Columbia, who were present at the trial of the within named petitioner, respectfully represent to the President of the United States, that at December term 1803 the peti tioner was convicted of stealing two geese, and sentenced to be whip’d fifteen stripes, to pay a fine of one dollar, and to stand committed untill the fine and fees should be paid; that they believe he is unable to pay them; that having suffered the corporal punishment, and re mained in prison a long time, they are of opinion that his punishment has been fully adequate to his offence, and therefore respectfully rec ommend that the residue of the judgment be remitted. W. Cranch. N; Fitzhugh 209
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[Order by TJ:] Aug. 15. 1804. Let a pardon issue
Th: Jefferson
RC (DNA: RG 59, GPR); in Cranch’s hand, signed by Cranch and Fitzhugh; written on verso of enclosure. Cranch and Fitzhugh’s recommenda tion, as well as an abstract of the trial and sentence, were enclosed in a brief letter to TJ from Uriah Forrest, clerk of the cir cuit court, dated Washington, 11 Aug.: “In obedience to the Orders of the Court
I have the honor to inclose you the within Abstract of the trial of Charles Brown & the sentence pronounced; with the recom mendation of the Judges, that you remit, that part which remains unsatisfied” (RC in DLC; endorsed by TJ as received 14 Aug. and so recorded in SJL with nota tion “Brown’s petn”; also endorsed by TJ: “Charles Brown’s case”).
e n c l o s u r e
Petition of Charles Brown To The Honble. the Judges of the Circuit Court of the District of Colombia The humble Petition of Charles Brown an unfortunate BlackMan most respectfully Sheweth—That He has been in confinement in Washington County Goal ever since last November & that He has sufferd the Law but is totally unable to extricate Him self from prison not having it his Power to pay the fine & Fees— He is upwards of fifty five Years of Age & has a Wife living in George who has been BedRidden a number of Years & rests entirely upon Your Peti tioner’s Labor for her Support— He most humble solicits the Humanity of the Honorable Court to take his unfortunate Situation into consideration & in Duty bound He will ever pray— Charles Brown Washington Goal 10h. Aug. 1804 MS (DNA: RG 59, GPR); endorsed by William Cranch; with Cranch and Nicholas Fitzhugh to TJ, 10 Aug., and TJ’s order added on verso. TJ signed a pardon that remitted Brown’s fine and costs of prosecution on 24 Aug. (FC in Lb in same).
living in george: a Charles Brown appeared in the 1800 federal census for Georgetown as the head of a household composed of three free blacks and one enslaved person (United States Census Schedules, DNA: RG 29).
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From William Branch Giles Dear Sir Amelia August 11th. 1804 This letter will probably be presented to you by Mr. William New sum, who proposes to make an excursion amongst the mountains in quest, both of health and pleasure. Mr. Newsum is the son of an old Friend of mine, who has been at all times uniform and zealous in his exertions in favor of republican principles during all the political trials through which we have passed; He is desirous of making his respects to you at Monticello, as he passes through your neighbourhood: and I take great pleasure in introducing him to your acquaintance; not only from the friendship and confidence which has at all times sub sisted between his father and myself; but also from a conviction, that you will find an ample recompence in the amiableness of Mr. New sum’s manners, for any civilities you may be pleased to show him.— Be pleased to accept my best wishes for your health and happiness &c &c Wm. B. Giles RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the U.S—”; en dorsed by TJ as received 13 Aug. Re corded in SJL as a letter of 13 Aug. re
ceived that day with notation “by mr Newsum.” old friend: William Newsum, Sr. (Vol. 35:568n).
From Étienne Lemaire Monsieur— Washington Sity 11 august 1804 je eut lhonneur, de resevoir votre lettre le 8 du Courent, qu’il m’aprend, que monsieur, a faite un Bon voÿage Et qu’il jouie, d’une Bonne Sentez de même que votre respectable famille—ce qu’il m’a fait un Sencible plaisire, Monsieur, ausitot Que je Resue vôtre de mande, je me Sui mi a deballer le vin De Chanpagne, pr. En avoir, les Caise. Et aûsitot je me Sui My apret le Shery; Et fait partir le 10. avecque le reste exeptez les jalousie qu’il netoit pas prête, Jespair que tout arivera a Bon por, monsieur je vous prie de me fair Savoir qu’el Son vos intantion, pr. le Charbon de ter; Car je Croit qe Sai le Bon Moment nÿ a eut que 23. Boutteille de deChet tent que de Casez Et de m’anque, rienautres chôsse a vous comuniquer, que vous Souaiter une parfaite Sentez je fini avec un Sincer atachement je vous prie de recevoir mes SiviLitez aûprai de vôtre Respectable famille; je Sui votre tres afectionné, Serviteur, Et Lemaire toute la famille Se porte Bien; pour moy ma j’anbe est tougour tres feble 211
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t r a n s l a t i o n
Sir, Washington City, 11 August 1804 I had the honor of receiving your letter on the 8th informing me that you had a safe trip and that you and your honorable family are in good health. I was very pleased. As soon as I received your request, I unpacked the champagne to keep the cases. I immediately packed the sherry and sent it on the 10th with the rest, except the venetian blinds, which were not ready. I hope everything arrives safely. Please let me know, Sir, what you wish me to do about the coal, since I think this is the right time. Only 23 bottles were broken or missing. There is no other news except to wish you perfect health. I conclude with my sincere attachment and ask you to give my regards to your honorable family. I am your very devoted servant. Et Lemaire My family is well, but my leg is still very weak. RC (MHi); endorsed by TJ as received 14 Aug. and so recorded in SJL.
votre lettre: TJ to Lemaire, 29 July.
From Cato West Dear Sir Mississippi Territory August 11th. 1804 I had the Honor to receive your note of the 17th. ultimo, with the enclos’d letter to Mr. Dunbar, which letter has been deliver’d to him agreeable to your request, he not yet having departed the Territory.— I am Dr. Sr. with great respect, and much esteem yours &c Cato West RC (MoSHi: Jefferson Papers); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Pr of the U,S,”; endorsed by TJ as received 6 Sep. and so recorded in SJL.
To Henry Dearborn Monticello Aug. 12. 04.
Th: Jefferson incloses to Genl. Dearborne more candidates for the succession to Genl. Irvine. he has just recieved a letter from mr Du pont the father in which is the following paragraph. ‘continue your friendship to me. extend it to my children. I hope you have your powder made and your saltpeter refined at their manufactory 1. be cause it is without comparison the best in the US. and one of the best in the world. 2. because your old powder probably needs renewing. 3. because it belongs to your faithful friend.’ perhaps the departure of Doctr. Hunter may furnish an occasion of yielding this kind of grati fication to a man, who, I have no doubt, has been useful lately, & I 212
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know to have been so formerly on all occasions. Th:J. presents his affectionate salutations to Genl. & mrs Dearborne. PrC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “Irvine’s successor. Du pont.” Enclosures (not found, but recorded in SJL; see Appen dix iv): (1) Joseph Clay to TJ, 6 Aug. (2) Probably William Linnard to TJ, 7 Aug. (3) Andrew Ellicott to TJ, 3 Aug. (4) Joseph Wheaton to TJ, 6 Aug. letter from mr dupont: Pierre Samuel Du Pont de Nemours to TJ, 5 May. departure of doctr. hunter: Phil adelphia chemist George Hunter had pre
viously refined saltpeter for the War De partment before he left Philadelphia to join William Dunbar’s exploration of the lower Louisiana Purchase (Trey Berry, Pam Beasley, and Jeanne Clements, eds., The Forgotten Expedition, 1804-1805: The Louisiana Purchase Journals of Dunbar and Hunter [Baton Rouge, 2006], xii; Dearborn to Hunter, 31 Dec. 1803, Lb in DNA: RG 107, MLS; Éleuthère Irénée du Pont de Nemours to TJ, 22 Feb. 1804).
To Victor Marie du Pont Monticello Aug. 12. 04.
Th: Jefferson presents his compliments to mr Dupont and incloses him a letter just recieved under cover from his father. RC (DeGH); addressed: “Mr. Victor Dupont New York”; franked; endorsed by du Pont. Enclosure: probably Pierre Samuel Du Pont de Nemours to his sons, Victor and Éleuthère Irénée, 4 Apr. (see Vol. 43:394n).
To Walter Jones, Jr. Dear Sir Monticello Aug 12. 04. I have this day recieved the resignation of J. T. Mason as Attorney for the district of Columbia. I wish on this occasion to avail the public of your talents, and therefore propose the appointment to you, asking the favor of as early an answer as you can give me, as I learn that at some court early in next month, the presence of an Atty for the dis trict at the trial of 2. criminals will be necessary. Accept my friendly salutations & assurances of respect. Th: Jefferson PrC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Walter Jones junr. esq.”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso. Walter Jones, Jr. (17761861), was the son of TJ’s old friend, Virginian physi cian and congressman Walter Jones. Tu tored in classical literature by Scotsman James Ogilvie, Jones went on to study
law under Bushrod Washington. After a few years of legal practice in Fairfax and Loudoun counties, he relocated to Wash ington. In late 1801, TJ appointed Jones the U.S. attorney for the district of Po tomac, followed in 1804 by his appoint ment as attorney for the District of Co lumbia, a post he held until 1821. Jones was a local civic leader, a commissioner of
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12 AUGUST 1804 bankruptcy, a founding member of the American Colonization Society, and for many years a commander of the local mi litia. Above all was his long and influential legal career. With “unsurpassed, if not unequalled” litigating skills and an “en cyclopedic knowledge of the law,” Jones sat as counsel on a number of prominent
court cases (anb; Roger K. Newman, The Yale Biographical Dictionary of American Law [New Haven, 2009], 302; Alexan dria Times; and District of Columbia Daily Advertiser, 25 June 1802; Edward Lillie Pierce, Memoir and Letters of Charles Sumner, 4 vols. [Boston, 1877], 1:135; Vol. 33:678).
To John Thomson Mason Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 12. 04. I have this day recieved your letter of resignation, with regret altho’ not unexpectedly; and have in consequence written to propose the office to mr Jones. as his acceptance is uncertain, and we have no time to lose in making the appointment, will you be so good in the mean time as to give me your opinion between mr Sprigg recommended by you, and John Bowie Ducket who has been recommended by others? if I can get this as soon as I recieve mr Jones’s answer, I shall be ready to appoint one of them if he answers negatively. Accept affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson P.S. I mentioned to you that I would write to mr Ringold on one of the subjects of our last conversation. on further reflection I thought it better not to do it on considerations respecting both you & myself, not in the least however abating my strong desire that the measure should take place. PrC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “J. T. Mason esq.”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso.
resignation: John Thomson Mason to TJ, 5 Aug. written to propose the office: TJ to Walter Jones, Jr., 12 Aug.
To Samuel Harrison Smith Sir Monticello Aug. 12. 04. I recieved yesterday your favor of the 8th. there was no mistake in sending you the proceedings of the H. of Burgesses instead of the Con vention. the General assembly (consisting of a Council & H. of B.) met on the call of Ld. Dunmore at Williamsburg June 1. 1775. they consumed the whole of a short session in the controversy with Ld. Dunmore, & had the controversial papers printed separately to be distributed among their constituents. this collection is what I sent 214
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you. having left them myself in session, & gone on to Philadelphia, I never got a copy of their journals, and suppose they do not now exist. from Williamsburg they went to Richmond where they met in con vention July 17. but I was not there, & believe nothing remarkeable past.—as to interesting facts, they exist only in the memory, & are called up by particular circumstances only & by recollection. it would be difficult to recall them to the mind in any other way. I have some times thought I would write them down as they occurred, but have never had the courage to begin. accept my friendly salutations & as surances of esteem. Th: Jefferson RC (CtY); addressed: “Mr. Samuel H. Smith Washington Col.”; franked; endorsed by Smith. PrC (DLC).
To George Jefferson Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 13. 04. Your account came to hand before I left Washington but it was in the hurry of preparation for departure which prevented my attending to it’s contents. observing now that there is a balance against me, I this day desire mr Barnes to remit you 250. D. to cover it. if you can send me a cheese or cheeses to the amount1 of 20. or 30. 1b. I will thank you. the poorest quality will suit best, as it is for cooking only that it is wanting, and rich cheese will not cook at all. shall we not have the pleasure of seeing you here this season? affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson PrC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. George Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso.
desire mr barnes to remit you: see John Barnes to TJ, 21 Aug. 1 Preceding
three words interlined.
From James Madison Dear Sir Aug. 13. 1804 I have now to acknowledge your two letters of the 3 & 7th. instant. with their inclosures; & to forward the communications from the office of State recd. since my last. Before I left Washington a circular letter was prepared & the req uisite provisional steps taken for giving effect to the proposed amend ment as soon as the ratification of Tennessee should be notified. As 215
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that has come to me thro’ the office I take for granted that no time was lost in issuing the documents lying ready for the event. I shall attend to your request of the Manuscript communications from Mr. Livingston as soon they come to hand. I am at a loss to know by what authority, he undertook to give a part of Skipwith’s salary to an additional Secretary for a purpose not included in the business allotted to Skipwith. Not possessing here the arrangements transmitted him, I can not decide positively but I suspect that he has consulted in the measure, his feelings rather than his instructions. I fear he has listened also more to his curiosity than to prudence in the trips to England confirmed in Monroe’s letter herewith inclosed, and so severely criticised in English newspapers. I have signed the Blank Commission & Credence for Genl. Arm strong,1 sent from the office, in consequence of the suggestion recd there from him. The lapse of time makes it improbable that they will reach N. York before he sails, and the want of official notice of the new Stile of the French Govt. and even of a precise knowledge of it, justifies if it does not require the form of the documents he has now with him. If you think it not improper however, the Blank forms may be forwarded with your signature to Mr. Wagner, who will either fill them up if he knows the precise Stile, or forward them to Genl. Arm strong to be filled up by him, as you may direct. Being an entire stranger to Mr Dickerson I can only judge of him thro’ others particularly Mr Gallatin whose opinion you possess more fully than I do. No fit person likely to accept occurs as preferable. Whether Judge Livingston of N. York would accept I know not. His talents are unquestionable; but local & other considerations are also to have their weight. I shall be happy to make our intended visit to Monticello coincide with the purpose you intimate, but the time of it depends on circumstances not altogether within our own regulation With respectful attachment Yrs. James Madison RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Presi dent”; endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department on 16 Aug. and so recorded in SJL as received from Orange with Madison’s letters of 14 and 16 Aug., notation: “lres of Armstrong, Merry Monroe, Claiborne, Sevier, Rhea, Clin ton, Jones, Vail, Airth, Skipwith, Paris Commrs. Livingston, Gavino, Wickel housen, Swan, Bp. Madison”; see also endorsement of Madison to TJ, 16 Aug. Enclosures: (1) John Armstrong to Mad ison, New York, 6 Aug.; Armstrong as
sumes recent dispatches from Robert R. Livingston will contain information re garding “the change in the Style of the French Government”; Armstrong wrote Jacob Wagner at the State Department on 4 Aug. suggesting that a second letter of credence be prepared accommodating the change; he also mentions the seizure of the American merchant ship Eugenia, recently returned from Bordeaux, by a British warship off New York harbor (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:5645). (2) James Monroe to Madison,
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13 AUGUST 1804 London, 22 May, reporting “material changes” in the British ministry, includ ing William Pitt replacing Henry Add ington as prime minister and Lord Har rowby replacing Hawkesbury as foreign secretary; Monroe met briefly with Har rowby and hopes to confer again soon; Livingston is in London “on a trip of amusemt,” which some in Britain believe has a “political motive”; Monroe doubts this, but the visit nevertheless places him “in rather an unpleasant dilemma”; the “business at Paris” is in an embarrassed situation; Monroe hopes it will be settled without delay and has confidence in Ful war Skipwith as agent and the integrity, if not the ability, of the American com missioners; he encloses a declaration by the emperor of Russia regarding French infractions against the Electorate of Baden (same, 2413). (3) Probably William C. C. Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 27 June, regarding a recent “riot” in the vi cinity of Baton Rouge (same, 37980; see also Claiborne to TJ, 26 June). (4) Prob ably Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 28 June, stating that summer heat has forced him to curtail his office hours and hire additional clerks; his secretary, Jo seph Briggs, is sick with fever and John Watkins is unwell, so he is without an assistant; he is now “engaged in complet ing a temporary organization of the mi litia” in New Orleans (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:393). (5) Probably Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 29 June, stating that the memorial to Con gress regarding the government of Loui siana is being prepared by Edward Liv ingston; it will be translated into French and presented for approval at a town meeting next Sunday evening; Claiborne understands the memorial is “quite volu minous” and may be considered a “severe Philippic” against Congress; he had hoped Livingston would be a welcome acquisi tion to Louisiana, but now fears he will become “a troublesome member of our political society”; Claiborne still considers Louisiana unprepared for representative government (same, 3956). (6) Probably Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 1 July; this day, a meeting of New Orleans residents and some nearby farmers has considered the memorial to Congress,
which demands immediate statehood for Louisiana; the language of the memorial is respectful, but its tenor “commanding and inflammatory”; the abolition of the slave trade and division of Louisiana are particular grievances; after the reading, the memorial was signed by about 140 persons; Claiborne will forward a copy to Madison; another meeting will take place to elect persons to carry it to Washing ton; Edward Livingston, Daniel Clark, and Evan Jones are the only Americans taking part in the business (same, 4056). (7) Probably Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 3 July, reporting that the “Free People of Colour” have manifested dissat isfaction at not being invited to the recent meeting to approve the memorial to Con gress; an “influential character” among them prepared an address calling for a separate meeting, but a printer “very pru dently” declined publishing it; Claiborne believes that the free people of color are well attached to the new government and any “disquietude” can be avoided with “advice,” although Claiborne is willing to use other means if necessary; governing Louisiana, especially New Orleans, will require prudence to avoid “tumult and confusion”; the population is so diverse that Claiborne fears no government will give general satisfaction; he regrets that public meetings were called, believing them influenced by “mischievous” per sons without permanent interest in the territory (same, 417). (8) Probably Clai borne to Madison, New Orleans, 5 July, describing an elaborate and wellattended Fourth of July celebration at New Or leans, which included orations (in French and English) and militia parades; Clai borne presented the militia with a stan dard and authorized its benediction in a Catholic church; several influential free persons of color have been dissuaded from holding a public meeting; a meeting of whites will be held on Sunday next, but Claiborne places confidence in the ability of Mayor James Pitot to maintain the peace; Claiborne describes Louisianians as “a zealous people,” but generally peace ful and well disposed; had the African slave trade been continued for a few years, Claiborne believes that no complaints against Congress would have been heard,
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13 AUGUST 1804 as there is “almost an universal sentiment in favour of this inhuman traffic”; those who “think and talk on political subjects” understand that Louisiana is not ready for statehood, and electing a second legis lative council will meet their expectations (same, 4213). (9) Probably Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 7 July; the recent discontent among the “people of Colour” has caused alarm among some of the white citizens, who have determined to hold no more meetings after the one that is planned for tomorrow, which Claiborne believes will be sparsely attended; Loui sianians are “extremely credulous” and vulnerable to manipulation; they are also jealous of Americans and view them selves “as a distant and acquired branch of our family”; yet Claiborne is confident that “a little experience under the Ameri can Government” will transform Louisi anians into good citizens (same, 4289). (10) John Sevier to Madison, Knoxville, 27 July, stating that an act adopting the Twelfth Amendment has undergone two readings in the Tennessee legislature; Se vier believes it will be unanimously ratified “this day” (same, 527). (11) John Rhea to Madison, Knoxville, 27 July, announc ing that the Tennessee legislature has “this day” unanimously ratified the Twelfth Amendment (same, 527n). (12) DeWitt Clinton to Madison, New York, 30 July, enclosing a newspaper report regarding the seizure of an American brig from Bor deaux by the British frigate Cambrian on Thursday last off Sandy Hook; the same warship recently impressed six passen gers from another vessel (same, 536). (13) Aaron Vail to Madison, L’Orient, 12 May, recommending his nephew, James Vail, for appointment as commercial agent at Nantes (same, 214; see also Vail to TJ, 12 May). (14) David Airth to Madison, Gothenburg, 2 Jan. 1804; as vice consul, Airth has observed the increase in Ameri can trade at Gothenburg and suggests a renewal of the 1783 commercial treaty between the United States and Sweden, which has expired; the previous consul had secured a 30 percent reduction in duties on goods imported and exported by American vessels, which Airth proposes should be confirmed; Gothenburg’s loca tion is ideal for establishing a deposit for
Russian goods, which would allow Ameri can vessels to avoid the Baltic; Airth also submits the advantage of appointing one U.S. minister for Sweden, Denmark, and Russia (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 6:2789). (15) Fulwar Skipwith to Madison, Paris, 9 May, complaining that Robert R. Livingston has unjustly ap propriated half of his salary “to the emol ument of an Agent, who he has thought proper to appoint to perform Certain of ficial duties”; to reduce the amount of correspondence, Skipwith suggested to Livingston that they should only con sider representations that have been for warded through American consuls in Eu rope; Skipwith’s responsibilities as agent have become oppressive and caused him “real expence”; he has furnished the U.S. commissioners with a statement of claims not included in the original plan for set tlement, which have been presented to the French council of liquidation and amount to slightly less than 10 million livres in principal; these claims are better supported by vouchers and pertain chiefly to supplies rendered in the West Indies (same, 7:2012; see also Madison to TJ, 15 Apr.). (16) John Mercer, Isaac Cox Barnet, and William Maclure to Madi son, Paris, 17 Apr., enclosing copies of their correspondence with Livingston (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:76). (17) Mercer, Barnet, and Maclure to Madison, Paris, 24 Apr., reporting that they have recommended the liquidation of 147 claims and rejected 57; the French have resuscitated 13 of the rejected claims; the U.S. commissioners have not been informed if any of the recommended claims have been liquidated and are therefore unable to ascertain whether claims in the projected settlement will ex ceed or fall short of 20 million livres; they fear their commission will expire before the remainder of the claims have been settled (same, 1056). (18) Mercer, Bar net, and Maclure to Madison, Paris, 5 May, enclosing copies of additional cor respondence between them and Living ston (same, 165). (19) John Gavino to Madison, Gibraltar, 10 May, forwarding a report that Tunis has declared war on the United States and recommending that a U.S. frigate be stationed in the Strait of
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14 AUGUST 1804 Gibraltar to prevent the passage of Tuni sian or Tripolitan cruisers (same, 2034). (20) Frederick Jacob Wichelhausen to Madison, Bremen, 17 Mch., referring to his previous report on “the conduct of the Bremen Senate toward foreign consuls” and forwarding a copy of the Prussian court’s instructions to its consul as a guide for crafting a possible American response; he also suggests that Ameri can vessels be informed of navigational changes at the entrance to Jade Bay (same, 6:597). (21) James Swan to Mad ison, Paris, 5 May, regarding the settle ment of his claim on the French govern ment; Swan complains that the American claims commissioners apparently consider him ineligible for compensation under the convention of 1803 because he was in volved in a commission business in Paris during the 1790s; if this is the case, Swan
argues, then every American who did business with France in Europe should likewise be deemed ineligible (same, 7:1657). Other enclosures not identified. John Armstrong’s original commis sion, dated 30 June, had appointed him the U.S. minister to the “Republic of France.” His initial letter of credence, dated 2 July, was addressed “To the First Consul of the French Republic and Presi dent of the Italian Republic” (FCs in Lb in DNA: RG 59, Credences). For the re cent changes in the French government, see William Lee to TJ, 26 May. For Arm strong’s revised letter of credence, see TJ to Napoleon, Emperor of the French, 24 Aug. 1
Preceding three words interlined.
From James Madison Dear Sir Aug. 14. 1804 I submit to your perusal the inclosed letter as the most ready mode of explaining the wish of Bishop Madison with respect to Mr. Mans field. If you can furnish me with any information proper for an an swer, you will oblige me by so doing. It is not improbable that the Bishop may take Monticello in his way as he proceeds Westward. In this case you will be saved the trouble otherwise imposed. Yrs always with respectful affectn James Madison RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department at Orange on 16 Aug. and so recorded in SJL with Madison’s letters of 13 and 16 Aug. (see those letters for notations); also endorsed by TJ: “Mansfield.” Enclosure: Bishop James Madison to Madison, Williams burg, 2 Aug., discussing his interest in employing Jared Mansfield as professor
of mathematics at the College of William and Mary and asking for information on whether Mansfield is inclined to accept the position; Bishop Madison is setting out on a “Western Journey” and hopes to visit Montpelier on his return (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:5512; see also Vol. 42:3667, 539).
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From Thomas McKean Sir, Philadelphia. August 14th 1804. A vacancy has happened in the office of Superintendant of military stores of the U.S. by the death of General Irvine. The Secretary at War, in his tour to Boston, called on Doctor Logan here, about the time of Genl. Irvine’s death, and desired him to think of some mili tary character, whom he could recommend to fill this office; a few days ago Doctor Logan made me a visit, when he named Colo. Sam uel Miles as the best qualified of any one known to him, and asked me if I thought he would accept the appointment, to which I could not give him an answer: the Doctor has since visited Colo. Miles, and re ceived for answer, that, if it was the pleasure of the President, he would cheerfully accept of it, tho’ he had long declined civil employments. Colo. Miles has filled several Posts of considerable trust, both in the civil & military line; he was chosen in this county a member of the legislature, both before & since the American revolution, has been a member of the supreme executive council of this State, a Judge of the High court of errors and appeals and an Elector of President of the United States. In the military character, he was a captain in the pro vincial army under General Braddock, Colonel of a regiment, consist ing of a thousand men, in the revolutionary war, and QuarterMaster General for Pennsylvania the two last years of that war. Indeed, Sir, it gives me pleasure to name to you so worthy a Gentleman, as a candidate for the vacant office, and one sincerely attached to your Administration. In the beginning of June last I received an overture from a Gentle man in Prince George’s county in Maryland to permit my name to be used as a candidate at the ensuing Election, for the office of President of the U.S; to which I wrote an immediate answer, absolutely declin ing the honor: this I thought most proper, as the Gentleman was altogether a stranger to me, and I had doubts whether the proposal was not a part of some intrigue; besides my silence might have been construed into consent. I would have inclosed the letter & answer for your perusal, but I questioned whether they would afford you any amusement; however they are at any time at your service. The Fed eralists have yet the will, tho’ not the power of doing mischief; and the party of course ought to be watched: at present they are at a Fault. You will have two or three new Members of Congress from this State, if not four; they will all be Republicans, tho’ in other respects no great advancement. Envy & ambition are passions, that cannot be easily eradicated from the human breast; but I am happy in being 220
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able to say, there will be no change in our President, for I do not be lieve a single Whig can be so vain or so lost, as to be duped by the Federalists into a measure that would cause a division even of the smallest number. Accept the best wishes for your health & prosperity from Sir, Your most obedient servant Dft (PHi); unsigned, in McKean’s hand. Recorded in SJL as received 18 Aug. with notation “Saml. Miles. v. Irvine.” Enclosed in TJ to Dearborn, 19 Aug.
new members of congress: on 9 Oct. 1804, Pennsylvanians elected Re publicans John Pugh, Christian Lower, and John Hamilton and Federalist James Kelly to Congress (Biog. Dir. Cong.; Washington Universal Gazette, 8 Nov.).
From John Page Dear Sir Augt. 14th. 1804 I take the Liberty of introducing to you Mr. George Newton a Son of my old Friend Col. Newton of Norfolk on his way to Staunton. I am sorry it is not in my power as yet to say when I shall have the pleasure of visiting you, as I am under the necessity of going down to York & Rosewell first. Mrs. Page unites with me in presenting our Compliments & best Wishes to yourself Mr. & Mrs. Randolph. Be pleased to inform him, that our Friend Mr. Carr was nominated, but that the Council seemed to have determined on Mr. Giles & Mr. Moore to supply the places of Mr. Nicholas & Mr. Venable in the Senate. I am with great respect & Esteem Your obedt. Servant John Page RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 23 Sep. and “by mr Newton” and so re corded in SJL.
To John C. Delacoste Sir Monticello Aug. 15. 04. The universal application made to me from all parts of the Union for a concurrence in the institution of schools, establishment of chari ties, erecting churches & public buildings, and other objects of local interest, & into which I gave for some time, not foreseeing their ex tent, obliged me at length to adopt it as a general rule to decline every thing of that kind, except in the places of my temporary or permanent 221
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residence. in truth, I found that these calls alone would absorb more than my whole resources public & private. on this ground I found myself obliged to decline the aid which was proposed for the museum of sculpture, painting &c at New York, as I had done in other cases, and as consistency, and indeed necessity requires me to do in that of the establishment for promoting the science of Natural history in New York. sincerely a friend to the progress of science in all it’s use ful branches, among which that of Natural history is eminent, I obey with reluctance those laws of conduct which are imperiously imposed on me by resources more limited than my desire to be useful. Accept my salutations & assurances of respect. Th: Jefferson RC (ViU); addressed: “M. Delacoste New York”; franked; endorsed by Dela coste. PrC (DLC).
promoting the science of natu ral history: see Delacoste to TJ, 7 Aug.
From Charles W. Goldsborough Sir, 15 Aug. [1804] The letters addressed to Mr Jarvis Mr Yznardi Mr Appleton & Mr Cathalain, which you did me the honor to entrust to my care, I have this day sent to Dl. Bedinger esq Norfolk Virga with a request that he will deliver them to the Capt of the Alfred—a Provision ship (destined for the Mediterranean)—which will sail about the 25 ins fm. Norfolk. I have the honor to be with great respect Sir yr mo ob St. Ch: W: Goldsborough RC (DLC); partially dated; endorsed by TJ as received 18 Aug. and so re corded in SJL.
letters: TJ to William Jarvis, 19, 20 July; Joseph Yznardi, Sr., 20 July; Thomas Appleton, 19 July; and Stephen Cathalan, Jr., 20 July.
To Richard Kennon Sir Monticello Aug. 15. 04. I recieved, last night only, your favor of the 5th. and regret that you cannot be in Louisiana by the 1st. of Oct. because it would certainly be highly proper that on the change of government to take place on 222
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that day, the officers who are to conduct the new government should be in their places. however necessity will oblige us probably in some cases not to make it an indispensable condition, and therefore I will rely on your delay not being such as to produce public injury. I will ask the favor of you to inform me by what time you calculate on being there, and in the mean time I shall have your commission made out with the others. Accept my salutations & assurances of respect. Th: Jefferson PrC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Richard Kennon esq.”; endorsed by TJ in ink on verso.
To James T. Leonard Monticello Aug. 15. 04.
Th: Jefferson presents his compliments to Lieutt. Leonard, and his thanks for the care he took in the delivery of his letters at Paris, to several of which he has recieved answers, as well as that of the pack ages he brought for him. that from mr Volney will come well as he has proposed. he salutes him respectfully. PrC (MoSHi: Jefferson Papers); en dorsed by TJ in ink on verso.
care he took: see Leonard to TJ, 8 Aug.
To James Madison Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 15. 04. Your letter dated the 7th. should probably have been of the 14th. as I recieved it only by that day’s post. I return you Monroe’s letter, which is of an awful complexion; and I do not wonder the communi cation it contains made some impression on him. to a person placed in Europe, surrounded by the immense resources of the nations there, and the greater wickedness of their courts, even the limits which na ture imposes on their enterprises are scarcely sensible. it is impossible that France and England should combine for any purpose; their mu tual distrust and deadly hatred of each other admits no cooperation. it is impossible that England should be willing to see France repossess Louisiana or get footing on our continent; and that France should willingly see the US. reannexed to the British dominions. that the Bourbons should be replaced on their throne, and agree to any terms of restitution is possible: but that they and England joined could re cover us to British dominion is impossible. if these things are not so, 223
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then human reason is of no aid in conjecturing the conduct of nations. still however it is our unquestionable interest & duty to conduct our selves with such sincere friendship & impartiality towards both na tions as that each may see unequivocally, what is unquestionably true, that we may be very possibly driven into her scale by unjust conduct in the other. I am so much impressed with the expediency of putting a termination to the right of France to patronize the rights of Louisi ana, which will cease with their compleat adoption as citizens of the US. that I wish to see that take place on the meeting of Congress. I inclose you a paragraph from a newspaper respecting Saint Domingo which gives me uneasiness. still I consider the British insults in our harbour as more threatening. we cannot be respected by France as a neutral nation, nor by the world or ourselves as an independant one, if we do not take effectual measures to support at every risk, our authority within our own harbours.—I shall write to mr Wagner directly (that a post may not be lost by passing thro’ you) to send us blank commissions for Orleans & Louisiana, ready sealed, to be filled up signed & forwarded by us. Affectionate salutations and constant esteem. Th: Jefferson RC (DLC: Madison Papers, Rives Col lection); at foot of text: “The Secretary of State.” PrC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “Monroe. English. French.” Enclosure:
James Monroe to Madison, 5 May (see Madison to TJ, 7 Aug.). Other enclosure not identified.
Petition of George McFarlane To the President of the United States of America— The Petition of George Mc.Farlane of the County of Alexandria in the District of Columbia hereby Sheweth, That your Petitioner was at the last Court for the County of Alex andria convicted of a riot, in consequence of being in company with other persons against whom that offence was established—The Igno rance of your Petitioner as to the laws he is informed is no excuse, But he confidently hopes clemency will be extended to a man whose only crime was that Ignorance and remaining present while the said riotous conduct was practised by others. Your Petitioner begs leave further to state that he has a Wife and Children whose only means of sustenance is derived from his labour; and that as he is utterly unable to pay the fine and Costs assessed against him (Amounting in the whole to sixty two Dollars eighty Cents) his only hopes of relief from the Gloomy horrors of a Jail rest 224
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on the clemency of the President who alone can avert the cruel hand of want and misery from his helpless family. George Mc.Farlane Alexandria 15th August 1804 Alexandria County St. George Mc.Farlane came before me the subscriber one of the United States Justices for the County aforesaid, and made oath that the facts stated in the foregoing Petition are true and correct.— Given under my hand this. 17th. day of August 1804 A Faw We the Subscribers, Justices of Peace for said County, being satis fied of the truth of the within Statement, Do recommend the Peti tioner to the Clemency of the President A Faw John Dundas Alexr Smith We have no Knowledge of several of the facts stated in this within petition but are induced to join in the recommendation out of com passion to his Wife & Children Who we believe would be greatly distress’d if McFarling was Sent to jail— George Gilpin George Slacum Peter Wise Jr MS (DNA: RG 59, GPR); petition and Abraham Faw’s attestation in Faw’s hand; justices’ recommendation in Faw’s hand, signed by Faw, Dundas, and Smith; additional statement in Gilpin’s hand, signed by Gilpin, Slacum, and Wise. At its June 1804 term at Alexandria, the U.S. Circuit Court for the District of Columbia upheld a guilty verdict against George McFarlane (McFarlin), a brick layer; John McFarlane (McFarlin), a la
borer; John Higdon, a bricklayer; and John Orpwood (Hopwood), a plasterer, for riot and assault against the persons and property of Frederick and Mary Churchman in October 1802. The court fined each defendant $10 and costs (Tr of trial in same). TJ issued a pardon for George McFarlane on 8 Oct. (FC in Lb in same; see also Petition of John Mc Farlane, 13 Sep., and TJ to the State De partment, 4 Oct.).
To Richard Richardson Sir Monticello Aug. 15. 04. I recieved last night your favor of Aug. 5. and am glad to find you have got safely back, & have been succesful in your expedition to Jamaica. from your long silence we had begun to conclude you were dead. your resolution to sell out in that island is undoubtedly wise, 225
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and your choice of the Orleans territory for your destination is equally so. you will find the purchase however of Sugar lands there high. but at the next session of Congress a landoffice will probably be opened there; and if you go before hand and select a spot of sugarlands, a great deal of which is now vacant, & be on the alert to get a grant of it, you may probably get the lands cheap, & reserve your capital for stocking it. mr Dinsmore, after whom you enquire, is still with me & well. the progress in my buildings, after which you enquire also, has been steady. you had finished all the bricklayer’s work be fore you left it. the housejoiner’s & plaisterer’s work within are nearly concluded. the latter will finish in 3. weeks; the former will occupy the present year, & the next will probably finish the outside work. wishing you success in your pursuits I tender you my friendly saluta tions and respects. Th: Jefferson RC (PPL: Arthur Loeb Collection); addressed: “Mr. Richard Richardson lately from Jamaica now at New York to lie in the P.O. till called for”; franked; endorsed by Richardson. PrC (MHi); endorsed by TJ in ink on verso.
From Joseph Briggs Sir, NewOrleans 16 August 1804 His Excellency Governor Claiborne, in consequence of a severe attack of fever, common at this season and in this climate, which dis ables him from writing even his name, has directed me to state to you Sir, that, your letters of the 12th. and 17th. July to himself and the Superior of the Nuns of St. Ursula have been received.—The first will be attended to, the moment health permits, and the latter has been conveyed to the Superior. I have the honor to be, Sir, with the highest respect Your most obdt. servt. Jos: Briggs RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 20 Sep. from “Claiborne Govr. (Briggs)” and so re corded in SJL. Joseph Briggs (d. 1804) traveled to Mis sissippi Territory in 1803 with his elder brother, Isaac Briggs, who planned to employ him as a clerk. By June 1804, he had commenced work as William C. C. Claiborne’s private secretary, but his ten ure was tragically brief. He died of “the prevailing fever” at New Orleans on 16
Sep. (Rowland, Claiborne Letter Books, 2:195; Isaac Briggs to TJ, 17 May 1803; William C. C. Claiborne to TJ, 18 Sep. 1804). of the 12th: no letter from TJ dated 12 July 1804 to either Briggs or Wil liam C. C. Claiborne has been found, nor was one recorded in SJL. Briggs appar ently referred to TJ’s undated letter to the Ursuline Nuns of New Orleans, printed at 13 July, which was enclosed in his let ter to Claiborne of 17 July, or to an un located cover letter.
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From William Cranch and Nicholas Fitzhugh, with Jefferson’s Order In the absence of the Chief Judge, we the undersigned Judges of the Circuit Court of the District of Columbia respectfully represent to the president of the United States that at December term 1803 Scipio Brown was convicted of stealing a Gun & sentenced to receive fifteen Stripes; to pay a fine of fifty dollars & to be committed until the fine & fees should be paid—The corporal punishment has been inflicted— but as he is extremely poor & has remained a long time in confinement during which time we understand he has behaved himself in an or derly decent manner, we respectfully recommend that the residue of the Judgment be remitted. We presume the Circumstance of the pris oner not sending forward a petition accompanying this representa tion, will not be deemed essential, as we are informed he is an ignorant Negro & probably without Friends. W. Cranch. Augt. 16th. 1804. N Fitzhugh [Order by TJ:] Let a pardon issue
Th: Jefferson
is not this the same which was directed last week? RC (DNA: RG 59, GPR); in Fitzhugh’s hand, dated by Cranch, signed by both; endorsed by TJ: “Brown Scipio. his case.” is not this the same: see Cranch and Fitzhugh to TJ, 10 Aug., which rec ommended clemency for Charles Brown. Cranch and Fitzhugh’s recommenda tion was enclosed in a brief letter to TJ from Uriah Forrest, clerk of the circuit
court, dated Washington, 17 Aug.: “I have the honor to forward the inclosed by the direction of the Judges of the Circuit Court” (RC in DLC; endorsed by TJ as received 21 Aug. and so recorded in SJL with notation “Scipio Brown’s case”). TJ issued a pardon of Brown for his fine and costs on 10 Sep. (FC in DNA: RG 59, GPR).
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir New York 16th Augt. 1804 Your three letters of 29th ulto., and of 3d & 7th. instt. reached me all together and only day before yesterday: what detained the first so long I cannot understand. M. Dickerson has had a relapse of the bilious fever, and, though with great reluctance, is obliged, in obedience to his Physicians, to aban don the idea of going this autumn to New Orleans. I am altogether at 227
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a loss to select another proper character in Pennsylvania. Young Ser geant is the only one I have heard of,1 of sufficient abilities, and his establishment and prospects being very good I doubt whether he would accept. Shall I, however, write to him? Shall we wait for Dick erson till winter? or can you not select another person. I will wait for your orders. Old Mr Neufville is dead & his son is as yet the only applicant to me: I am compelled to withdraw my recommendation in favour of Crofts, as there is a formal complaint by his colleagues of non atten dance, neglect of his duties, and not accounting for the application of the monies he had received. It is probable, that the complaint is well founded; and until he shall clear himself an appointmt. would be im proper. There is no time to be lost, as the commission must be trans mitted &a. in time for the calculations & payment of interest, which falls due 1st October. You must I presume,2 chose between Neufville & D’Oyley: if by the laws of the State there is incompatibility of offices, D’Oyley is probably better provided as he is, than by the office of Commr. of loans; and the application of Freneau who is, as I under stand, a friend of D’Oyley renders it probable. Of Neufville’s politics I know nothing. The papers respecting Samuel Travis are returned: it seems that there can be no doubt of the propriety of appointing him. The Collector of Hampton is dead. There are two applicants— Jones and Armistead. Mr Newton recommends a third Broadie who probably should be preferred. The papers are enclosed. I will leave this for Washington on the 3d Septer. With great respect & attachment Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Trea sury Department on 21 Aug. and “Dick inson. Sarjeant. Neufville. Armistead. Jones. Broadie Doyley” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures not found. young sergeant: probably Philadel phia attorney John Sergeant, whom TJ appointed a commissioner of bankruptcy in 1802. William Duane considered the talented young man more Federalist than Republican (Biog. Dir. Cong.; Vol. 37:709; Vol. 38:104n, 51213). the only applicant: Isaac Neufville wrote Gallatin on 31 July reporting the death of his father and reiterating his de
sire to succeed him as commissioner of loans for South Carolina (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Neufville Isaac to be Commr. loans Charleston lre to mr Gallatin”). recommendation in favour of crofts: see Gallatin to TJ, 23 July (sec ond letter). Daniel d’oyley held a state appoint ment as treasurer for the lower division of South Carolina (Vol. 38:121n). Peter freneau recommended Neufville in his 4 July letter to TJ. Thomas Newton had recommended David Brodie (broadie) for the Hamp ton collectorship in 1801 (Vol. 35:1267).
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16 AUGUST 1804 1 Preceding
interlined.
four words and comma
2 Preceding two words and comma interlined.
From Thomas Leiper Dear Sir Philada. August 16th. 1804 It is with infinite pain I am obliged to give you the History of this district and how it will wind up next October’s Election will show— The first thing that appeared like a division amoungst republicans (perhaps I am mistaken in the name for altho’ they call themselves republicans their subsequent conduct convinces me they have no Title to it) was a Meeting at the Harp and Eagle how many were invited to the Caucus I know not but from the information I received about Twenty of them appeared and proceeded to business and ap pointed Tench Coxe President and William Bache secretary Dallas was not invited to this meetting of Coxe’s and a number of our best republicans had no invitation This very thing at the time convinced me they had some thing in view not correct and every day since I am convinced more and more of their double dealing—The first thing that was agreed to at this meetting was to call the wards together with a view of getting men appointed that Coxe could manage for Bache at that time I believe had got no further into the business than the Tub throughen out to the Whale thats Leib & Penrose’s certifi cates but what Mr. Dallas said lately before the General Ward Com mittees he most give up that point I desired Dr. Bache to let me look at their proceeding of which Coxe was at the Head and he at the tail the answer was to attend at the H & Eagle next tuesday which was their next meeting and I should know all about it I told him I would but Mr Dallas who was present advised me not—I was at this time very free and amoungst other things advised him to take Care of Mr Coxe—Mr. Bache has been with me since to inform me a certain ad vertizement which was handed into each door which Duane said he was the author of He hoped I would not believe him capable of any such thing—I was pleased beyond measure that he could declare off— Mr. Bache also at the same time informed me which by the bye I did not like that if I would not interest myself at the next election he would not—I give him to understand I would make no such agreement but proceed in the line agreeable to myself and that I should not be neu tral at any Election—But to return the meettings of the wards were called upon to give their attendence Mr Dallas being next door to me I asked him what the republican in our Ward were called together for 229
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he had not heard a syllable of it—I proceeded on to find it out and met a Mr Martin a saddler of our ward who acknowledged he was the man that had sent the notice to the press—I asked him how he came to do this thing without consulting Mr Dallas and others in the ward he said he had as good a right to do this thing as any man agreed but I give him to understand their was some thing improper of him doing this of himself and beged to know how advised him to the measure he told me Doctr Jackson—Jackson is not of our ward and he has no business with us—I marched on and came to the Aroura office and their I was informed of the Caucus with some of the names in the number was Jackson’s and at the same time given to understand that the plan was that the little band was to attend the ward meetting and to get as they termed it their friends appointed as committee men— Before the thing was known they succeed in Two Wards and Coxe himself was appointed— The first step taken by the General Ward Committees was to appoint a Chairman General Barker mentioned my name Coxe mentioned Alderman Douglass—Altho’ this appeared to be a party Question not withstanding I had Mr Coxes Vote this I believe proceeded from their being a large Majority in my favor—I had not been long in the Chair before I discovered it was impossible to keep order the play began between Bache & Duane—in a speech of Bache’s he called Duane a Bully to order was called Bache offended he could not speak in his own way and Duane equally offended he could not answer in his own way—the Question was put to ajourn and carried—before next meet ting the parties had Caucuses and One of them I was at where we agreed on our members of Congress Assembly & Councils Dallas not being at either made a speech at some length and with great propri ety shewing the bad consequences of republicans caucusing against republicans—The second caucus men acknowledge the thing was im proper and give a History of their proceedings and the reasons why viz if the other party meaning Coxe & company did this thing we could not be upon a footing with them unless we did the same Coxe at great length made a studied speech (but did not mention a word of what past at their caucuses) wherein he said he would not for any con sideration on earth divid the republicans and said some hard things against Federalists and whatever was agreed on by the majority he would submit to for the truth of all this I refer you to his own protest and Mr Warners letter to me inclosed— The Conferees of the City and County Met yesterday Delaware county by the adress of Coxe & Compy who Attended their meetting pre vented the County sending conferees to met us—You will observe 230
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from the proceeding of our meetting which will be in the Aurora of tomorrow that we have not proceeded to the nomination of a State Senator but still expect they will agree with us who shall be the man— Pearson whom they have sellected as Senator is with Logan He is with the rising sun party he is with the third party he is with any party that will advance him his view was to be put in place of Rich ards as member of Congress but as he could not carry that point he had friends to get him at the meeting put in nomination as senator— but I hope he will be disappointed in both or any man who Doubles— If we lose our Election charge it to Logan for he is at the Bottom of it—Logan and Leib has been at out’s these Ten years—Logan wants to be Governor and he thinks Leib stands in his way but they may give themselves no trouble on this subject for neither the one or the other will be Governor of Pennsylvania—Believe me Sir the Ques tion is not Leib it has now become a party question if we cannot vote in Leib as a member of Congress I shall say the republicans have lost their election and if the federal party fall in with them which I am affraid they will altho’ they say they will not. I am affraid to think on this subject but I will do what I think right that is my rule and not think of consequences—But I must give you the otherside of the Pic ture the Conferees from the county and our Ward Committees and the conferees numbering them old whigs whom I have seen these thirty years—and their sons and I should suppose their neighbours are of the same opinions or they would not sent them forward and out of the Thirty Eight who were appointed Thirty Four attended who agreed to a man to support Leibs Election the Four who were absent have it in their power to sign the proceeding if they please—I wrote you some time ago respecting Callender Irvine I hope you will take the case of his family into your Religious consideration and appoint him to the offices of his father—As a soldier and a citizen we highly es teemed General Irvine and we cannot help transfering our affections to his family and a more proper & popular appointment you could not make—When I look at the Widow and see her Grief it is more than I can bear she looks back and remembers the attention and affection of her Husband but I can see her looks at Four Daughers and Three small sons and the Language of her eyes is what is to become of you—You are to be their staff and their stay in giving a Ralling Point in Callender if you do not as true as God’s in Heaven they will be on the Forlorn Hope—Israel Israel is applying for G. Irvine’s office I am informed the republicans made him Sheriff by which he made Forty Thousand Dollars—(during the time he was Sheriff I never saw him at any meeting of the republicans)—I do not doubt of Israel making 231
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Forty thousand Dollars in Three Years—for years ago John Leib told me he took the bed under a Woman for his fees—Mr. Dallas informs me he charged a Client of his for fees One Thousand Dollars and he was only intitled to Sixty—William Levis for looking on at Duane’s battle was fined by the Court Sixpence but the Cost came to Thirty Four dollars as this bill of Cost was taken up by Judge Wilcocks and reduced to Twelve and as these fees was to come part of them to Mr. Beckley I applied to him to know how this thing happen he informed me the Bill of Costs was manufactured in Israels office—Israel wants to be a member of Congress he has some hand in our present division at least his son has for he is too knowing himself to appear—He was once a Jew he is now a Christian—I understand George Harrison has applied for that place in the Navy that General Irvine held he has got too much already or any federalist who has rendered his country no personal service in the field—This man is married to Thomas Will ing Niece—Willing is President of the Bank of the United States— You may also have observed he was Chairman at a Meeting when they agreed to Hoist the Black Cockade on the left arm in Honour of Sandy Hamilton—They also resolved and expected the Clergy men would preach in his favor but they had not forgotten they had been taken in by the funeral service of General Washington. You no doubt have seen Alexander Hamilton’s dying Speech observe that part of it where he mentions he expected to be called into the field to fieght with whom—certainly the republicans Hamilton was the Head of a Party he is gone but the party is still in Being and from that circum stance I know you will Pause before you will appoint who shall sup perintend the Continental Arms—I have to the best of my knowledge and belief given You the History of our Jumble and subdivisions and should any more of it come to my knowledge you shall have it in the mean time believe me with respect & esteem Dear Sir Your most Obedient St. Thomas Leiper RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 25 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. Enclo sures: (1) Possibly Tench Coxe’s account of a 14 May meeting at the Harp and Eagle tavern, printed in the 18 and 19 June issues of the Freeman’s Journal and Philadelphia Daily Advertiser, in which he denied responsibility for orchestrat ing the gathering and explained that the group resolved to support candidates “of good moral and republican standing,” which pointedly excluded Michael Leib. (2) John Warner to Leiper, Wilmington,
Delaware, 10 Aug., describing a “pre meditated” meeting between Tench Coxe and “the chiefs of our little band,” Dr. John Vaughan and Thomas Mendenhall; during his visit Coxe met only with Fed eralists “or the little band gentry” and no bona fide Republicans; Warner describes the “little band” as a small faction opposed to Caesar A. Rodney that has no broad based support but has scored a victory in a recent sheriff’s race by attracting a leader of the local “Sweedish interest” (RC in DLC). (3) Samuel Harswell to Leiper,
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16 AUGUST 1804 Philadelphia, 13 Aug., attesting to War ner’s Republican credentials (RC in same). history of this district: Pennsyl vania’s first congressional district, com prising the city of Philadelphia and Phil adelphia and Delaware counties, elected three representatives to Congress. Dur ing the summer of 1804, a faction of the Republican party, organized by Tench Coxe and dubbed Quids by their oppo nents, attempted to oust Michael Leib as one of the representatives. After learning of the meeting at the harp and eagle, the Republicans headed by William Duane succeeded in getting the city to approve Leib on the ticket. Coxe’s sup porters were able to get the county of Philadelphia to nominate merchant Wil liam Penrose on the Republican ticket instead of Leib (Sanford W. Higginbo tham, The Keystone in the Democratic Arch: Pennsylvania Politics 1800-1816 [Harris burg, 1952], 701; Jacob E. Cooke, Tench Coxe and the Early Republic [Chapel Hill, 1978], 43846; Andrew Shankman, Crucible of American Democracy: The Struggle to Fuse Egalitarianism Capitalism in Jeffersonian Pennsylvania [Lawrence, Kans., 2004], 1224). Coxe revived charges that Leib had sto len Joseph penrose’s certificates on the Continental debt, amounting to over
$6,000, and defrauded his heirs (Freeman’s Journal and Philadelphia Daily Advertiser, 13 June). aurora of tomorrow: on 17 Aug., the Aurora reported that Republicans at a meeting held in Philadelphia and chaired by Leiper rejected Leib’s offer not to stand for reelection and postponed the nomination for the state senator rep resenting Delaware County. For Leiper’s account of the rising sun party during the initial break in the Republican coalition in Philadelphia in 1802, see Vol. 38:4078, 4212. i wrote you: see TJ to Dearborn, 8 Aug. duane’s battle: on 15 May 1799, William Levis was a spectator during an assault on William Duane by members of the Philadelphia city cavalry. At the trial of the ringleaders on 7 May 1801, the court fined him one cent even though he had not taken part in the beating (Philadelphia Gazette, 13 May 1801; Vol. 31:1523n). After the death of Alexander Hamilton, thomas willing chaired a meeting in Philadelphia that recommended that citi zens “wear black crape round their left arm for 30 days” and that the clergy preach against dueling (New York Republican Watch-Tower, 21 July).
To James Madison Th: Jefferson to J. Madison. Monticello Aug. 16. 04. I have this day written to mr Wagner to send me the commissions for the Orleans territory with blanks for names & dates. the following is the arrangement, which I sketch for your consideration. Governor. Claiborne Secretary. James Brown. written to. Judges of Superr court. Pinkney. Kirby. written to Prevost. accepts District judge. Hall. written to. Attorney. Dickerson. if Pinkney should refuse, or Dickerson be otherwise disposed of, Robert Williams. 233
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Marshall. Thos. Urqhart. a Creole native. Legislative French. American. Council. Detrahan Morgan Cuisergues D. Clarke Dubuys Watkins Poydrasse. of Point Coupée Evan Jones Bellechasse of Acadian coast Roman of Attacapas Fauré or Boré Wykoff of Appelousa Dow. or Geo. Pollock Judge of Washington District, of Misipi Territory. Toulman. Govr. of Misipi Territory. Hull, or Thos. Rodney (the latter is now a judge, & Commissioner) will you be so good as to meditate on this against we recieve the com missions, which I presume will reach me on this day sennight? Affectionate salutations. RC (DLC: Madison Papers, Rives Collection). Notation in SJL: “Orleans com mns.” PrC (DLC).
From James Madison Dear Sir Aug. 16. 1804 Inclosed is a letter of late date from Mr Monroe and the originals of those heretofore recd. from Mr Livingston in press copies. Mr. L. now admits that the debts will exceed 20,000,000 livrs. How he calculates 2 Millions of interest as the effect of the delay which is less in every view than a year, or how he can charge the delay on the U.S. when he admits that the French Govt forbears to take the steps de pending on them, or how he makes out an obligation on the U.S: to enlarge the payments from the Treasy. in favor of those not embraced by the last Convention, more than of those abandoned by the preced ing one, I am unable to divine. The fraud practised in the name of Preeble makes a hard case. In a legal view the loss I suppose falls on the Bankers. It seems equitable at the same time, considering the circumstances & the dilemma in which they stood, that they shoud not suffer. Congrs. alone can decide in their favor, if the law be agst. them, & equity be thought for them. The subject however lies rather with the Navy than the State Dept. Yrs. with respectful attachment James Madison. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Presi dent”; endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department at Orange on 16
Aug. and “letters of Armstrong, Merry, Monroe, Claiborne, Sevier, Rhea, Clin ton, Jones, Vail, Airth, Skipwith, Paris
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16 AUGUST 1804 Commrs. Livingston, Gavino, Wichel housen, Swan, Bp. Madison” and so re corded in SJL with Madison’s letters of 13 and 14 Aug. Enclosure: James Mon roe to Madison, London, 18 June, enclos ing papers received from the London house of Mackenzie & Glennie detailing a fraud committed against the United States
in the name of Commodore Edward Pre ble amounting to £4,000; British affairs remain in flux; the king is indisposed, and advocates for a regency are gaining strength (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:330). For the other enclosures, see Madison to TJ, 4 Aug.
To John Page Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 16. 04. I inclose for your perusal a letter from Dr. Rush, asking the favor of you to return it. on the question Whether the Yellow fever is in fectious, or endemic, the Medical faculty is divided into parties, and it certainly is not the office of the public functionaries to denounce either party as the Doctr. proposes. yet, so far as they are called on to act, they must form for themselves an opinion to act on. in the early history of this disease, I did suppose it to be infectious. not reading any of the party papers on either side, I continued in this supposition, until the fever at Alexandria brought facts under my own eye, as it were, proving it could not be communicated but in a local atmosphere, pretty exactly circumscribed. with the composition of this atmosphere we are unacquainted: we know only that it is generated near the water side, in close built cities, under warm climates. according to the rules of philosophising, where one sufficient cause for an effect is known, it is not within the economy of nature to employ two. if local atmo sphere suffices to produce the fever, miasmata from a human subject are not necessary, and probably do not enter into the cause. still it is not within my province to decide the question: but as it may be within yours to require the performance of Quarentine or not, I execute a private duty in submitting Doctr. Rush’s letter to your consideration. but on this subject ‘nil mihi rescribas, attamen ipse veni.’ Accept for yourself & mrs Page affectionate & respectful salutations. Th: Jefferson RC (NN); at head of text: “private”; addressed: “John Page Governor of Vir ginia Richmond”; franked. PrC (DLC). Enclosure: probably Benjamin Rush to TJ, 6 Aug., not found (Appendix iv).
nil mihi rescribas, attamen ipse veni: “writing back is pointless, come yourself!” (Ovid, Heroides, 1.2; Vol. 28:408).
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To John Smith of the War Department Sir Monticello Aug. 16. 04. Commissions are now wanting for three Colonels, and two Majors Commandants of Louisiana. the commission is to express that the party ‘is appointed a Colonel [or Major] Commandant of the regular officers and troops of the army of the US. and of the militia in a dis trict of Louisiana,’ and is to be in the nature of a Brevet. be pleased to make out and send such commissions, leaving blanks for the names & dates, and inclose them immediately to me for signature. that I may be enabled to inclose them direct to the Secretary at war, will you be so good as to inform me at the same time to what post office I must address them? I have hitherto addressed to him at Hallowell. Accept my salutations & respects. Th: Jefferson PrC (DLC); brackets in original; at foot of text: “The Chief clerk of the Depart ment of War.” Recorded in SJL under 15 Aug. with notation “Departmt war (John Smith) brevet commns. Louisa.” John Smith (ca. 17741811) was edu cated at the College of Rhode Island, fol lowed by studies in medicine and law. In 1800, he established a legal practice in
Somerset, Pennsylvania. Two years later, Smith accepted a position with the War Department, rising to chief clerk in 1804, an office he held until his death. For seven weeks in 1809 he was ad interim secre tary of war, fulfilling that role after Dear born’s early resignation on 17 Feb. until the new secretary, William Eustis, began his duties (Biog. Dir. Cong.; National Intelligencer, 30 Apr. 1811).
To Jacob Wagner Sir Monticello Aug. 16. 1804. I must ask the favor of you to send me immediately the following commissions, ready sealed & filled up, except as to the names and dates. to wit a commission appointing [blank] Governor of the territory of Orleans, to hold the said office during the term of 3. years from the 1st. day of Oct. next unless sooner removed by the President of the U.S. 1 do. appointg. [blank] Secretary of the territory of Orleans, to hold the said office during the term of 4. years from the 1st. day of Oct next unless sooner removed by the President of the US. 3 do. appointing [blank] a judge of the Superior court of the territory of Orleans to hold the sd office for the term of 4. years from the 1st. day of Oct. next. 1. do. appointing [blank] District judge of the territory of Orleans. 1 do. appointing [blank] Attorney for the US. in the territory of New Orleans. [during pleasure as usual] 236
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1 do. appointing [blank] Marshall for the district of Orleans [+during pleasure also] 1 do. appointing [blank] Judge of the District of Washington in the Missisipi territory. 13. do. appointing [blank] a member of the legislative council of the territory of Orleans, to hold the sd office during the term of one year from the 1st. day of Oct. next. a Dedimus potestatem to [blank] to administer to the Governor of Orleans an oath or affirmation to support the constitution of the US. & for the faithful discharge of the duties of his office. The arrangement of these officers is not yet finally concluded; & as the time is getting short, to reserve to ourselves as much as possible, I shall desire the Secretary of State to forward them directly to the parties, keeping a note of names & dates to be entered of record in his office. I have, on view & consideration of the act of Congress, given above what I concieve to be the proper description to be inserted in each commission. Accept my salutations & respects. Th: Jefferson +for 4 years as usual instead of pleasure RC (MH); brackets in original; at foot of text: “Mr. Wagner”; added note at foot, keyed to text, lacking in PrC. PrC (DLC). Recorded in SJL under 15 Aug. with notation “commns Orleans.”
dedimus potestatem: a writ giving power to an individual to act in a judge’s stead (oed). The act of congress of 26 Mch. 1804 that organized Orleans Territory specified the offices and terms (U.S. Stat utes at Large, 2:2834).
From Joseph Briggs Sir, NewOrleans 17 August 1804 I have the honor to enclose to you, by order of His Excellency Gov ernor Claiborne, a list of persons recommended for the Legislative Council of the Orleans Territory. He finds it difficult to state with certainty more of these Gentlemen than the country which gave them birth, and education, and their Situation in Society:—Their political bias is believed to be in favor of republicanism and their affections attached to the United States. The Governor’s illness was for a short time alarming; its sever ity has much abated and left him extremely debilitated; but I am happy to inform you Sir, that he is pronounced to be in a State of Convalescence. 237
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I am Sorry to add that Mrs. Claiborne has also been so much re duced by sickness that her life was at times despaired of, but the criti cal moment is passed and she is declared by her Physicians to be out of danger ’tho’ she yet appears but a few Steps from the brink of the grave. The Governor is impressed with an opinion that unless you permit him to retire for a short period from the fatigues of business and to enjoy a change of air that the time will be long indeed before his health will be perfectly reestablished. I am Sir with the highest respect Your most obdt. servt. Jos: Briggs RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR, file of Benja min Morgan); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as a letter from William C. C. Claiborne by Briggs received 18
Sep. and so recorded in SJL with nota tion “Orleans officers”; endorsed by a clerk. Dupl (DLC); at head of text: “Du plicate”; endorsed by TJ as a letter from Claiborne by Briggs received on 20 Sep.
e n c l o s u r e
Legislative Council Recommendations Persons recommended by Governor Claiborne for members of the Legisla tive Council of the Orleans Territory. In the City of NewOrleans Benjamin Morgan, Colonel Bellechasse and Doctor John Watkins.—For particulars respecting these gentlemen I refer you to my letter of the 29th. May last. Doctor Robert Dow, a native of Scotland; many years established in this country a practicing physician highly respected—Speaks French well. William Kenner, an American merchant possessing considerable property in the city; a man of good understanding.—Speaks French. William Donaldson by birth an Englishman Several years a merchant, of respectability and property—Speaks French fluently. James Pitot; a wealthy French merchant long established in the City said to possess general information, and popular among his countrymen: He has received from me the appointment of Mayor on the recommendation of the Municipality—Speaks English pretty well Le Breton D’Orgenoi, a French Creole of respectability; planter,—Speaks English. Peter Petit a long established and respectable merchant—Speaks the three languages. On the coast between Manshac and the City James Mather a native of England who has resided in this country a num ber of years on a valuable plantation; a sensible well informed man highly respectable—Speaks French.
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17 AUGUST 1804 Nachitoches Doctor John Sibley a native American in the practice of medicine, of hand some talents and information, much esteemed; a man of firmness and in good circumstances. Opelousas William Wykoff, and Theophilus Collins, both Americans of wealth, sense and respectability, long resident in the country, and it is presumed conversant with its language. Point Coupé Julian Poydrass;—for the character of this gentleman, I again refer you to my letter of the 29th May. Samuel Young, an American, a rich planter Speaks French; but not a fa vorite, at least in NewOrleans. Opposite Baton Rouge William Wykoff Junior, an American, a long time a merchant in the City, and now retired to a valuable plantation is much esteemed and Commandant of the district.—Speaks French well. Atakapas Messrs Loviell, Dubuche and Foutenet french planters of long and good Standing in the country, said to be opulent but do not understand English Also Mr. Durall who Speaks English; a man of high respectability. Omitted among the NewOrleans delegates Francis Duplessis, a French merchant of long and high Standing Speaks english MS (DNA: RG 59, LAR, file of Benja min Morgan); in Joseph Briggs’s hand. Dupl (DLC); in Briggs’s hand. durall: Claiborne and Briggs may have had in mind Martin Duralde, for merly the commandant of the Opelousas
Post and recipient of a Spanish land grant in Attakapas (Glenn R. Conrad, ed., A Dictionary of Louisiana Biography, 2 vols. [New Orleans, 1988], 1:273; Glenn R. Conrad, comp., Land Records of the Attakapas District, 2 vols. [Lafayette, La., 1990], 1:8, 11, 55).
From Gabriel Duvall Dear Sir, Washington, August 17. 1804. This morning I received a letter from Isaac Neufville of Charles ton, informing me of the death of his Father on the 29th ulto.—He was Commissioner of Loans for the State of South Carolina. I have written to the Secretary of the Treasury to inform him of the event. With great respect & esteem, I am, dear sir, your obedt. servant G. Duvall. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson, Esq.”; endorsed by TJ as received 21 Aug. and so recorded in SJL.
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From Madame de Tessé a Aulnay 17 aoust 1804
J’aprends, Monsieur, que mr. Livingston est au moment de partir pour L’amerique, sans avoir eté prevenue de son dessein de nous quitter. mr. de La fayette est en auvergne; ma famille eparpilleé, je vis tres solitaire, et quoique tres pres de Paris les nouvelles m’arrivent tard, et m’echapent assés souvent. je serois bien affligée de manquer une occasion si favorable de vous exprimer mes sentimens et j’ecris a la hâte avec la crainte de ne pas parvenir a temps. je vous ai adressé les plus vifs Remerciemens de la bonté toute particuliere avec Laquelle vous avés daigné m’adresser un present precieux, mais on ma fait craindre que mes lettres ne vous fussent pas parvenues faute davoir eté assés multipliees pour les circonstances de la Guerre. je ne crains pas le soupçon d’ingratitude. vous savés trop helas! que nous ne manquons Gueres de Reconnoissance pour les bienfaits qui nous honnorent. l’amour propre de Me. de Tessé Repond donc a Monsieur jefferson de toutes les apparences d’un bon coeur mais cela ne me suffit pas. jai besoin, Monsieur, de vous persuader que mon coeur est penetré de Gratitude pour vos constantes Bontés et de vous Rendre compte du produit de votre caisse. Les plans de Magnolia sont arrivés hors detat dêtre Ranimés. ceux de sassafras et de cornus florida quoique malades ont Repris pour la plus part assés de vigueur pour esperer de les conserver. Les Glands ont Levés si Rapidement que jai dejá de quoi fournir un vaste jardin en beaux chênes. Les noix ont eu le méme succès avec cette difference que j’en attends un nombre au moins egal L’anneé prochaine. La Germination de cette semence n’aiant Lieu le plus souvent que la seconde année. il en est de méme des Rosiers ou Eglantiers. Les Graines de Tulipiers etoient raides pour la plus part. Le jardinier ne les avoit pas Recoltées avec soin. j avois lieu de craindre quelles ne produisent Rien mais elles ont donné à peu prés La centieme partie de ce quelles auroient produit si elles eussent ete bonnes. et cest encore assés pour me donner beaucoup de satisfaction. nos Tulipiers portent maintenant en france assés de Graine pour quon ne manqua pas de plans si elle Rendoit La millieme partie de celle d’amerique. mais il s’en faut bien. je prefererai toujours trois poignées de Graine de Tulipier prise sur un arbre d amerique, a un boisseau Recolté sur un Tulipier de france. 240
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je souhaiterois Monsieur connoitre un de vos americains qui eut vu un terrain que jai defriché il y a deux ans. il pourroit vous Reporter La confiance de planter dans 10 ans a Monticello. jai choisi un terrain humide et Leger. je L’ai pris peu etendu parceque ma fortune ne me permettoit pas d en cultiver bien un grand. jai planté des arbres verts à 15 et 20 pieds de distance dans mes massifs pour la posterité et je les ai entourés pour moi des especes les plus agréables et dont la crue est La plus Rapide. jai soin de tenir toujours La terre très meuble. des plantes vivaces tres vigoureuses entremeleés avec mes arbustes quelles ombragent, entourent tres agreablement mes massifs chargés de fleurs. et mon jardin qui a dit on l’air dêtre preparé pour une fete me donnera encor dans deux ans le plaisir de me promener à L’ombre des arbres que jaurai planté. J’eprouve un peu moins de peine qu on n’en a commencement a choisir entre les inconveniens. mes amis ont Reculé dabord a l’aspect du lieu que Mr. de Tessé m’a permis de choisir. ils ne savoient pas ce quil falloit sacrifier à mes plus Grands obstacles L âge et la fortune. Ils louent aujourd’huy comme le produit du Talent, ce qui napartient qua l’experience. vous croiés bien, Monsieur, que jai Ressenti bien vivement et bien profondement tout ce que vous avés fait pour Mr. de La fayette, que j’aurois toujours applaudi s’il fut né americain, que je nai pas cessé un moment destimer comme compatriote, et daimer comme un fils. ma santé se traine passablement pour mon âge. L’experience demontre que vos semblables sont Rarement doués de la force musculaire et de cet equilibre qui ne se perd jamais sans douleurs. vous ajouteriés a vos autres bontés si vous voulies bien me Rassurer sur une santé si chere a vos enfans, a vos amis et a vos compatriotes, qu on dit assés eclairés pour vous conserver dans votre place eminente. Mr. de Tessé vous prie, Monsieur, d agreer son Respectueux attachement et tout celui de votre tres humble servante. Noailles de Tessé e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Aulnay, 17 Aug. 1804 I learned, Sir, that Mr. Livingston is about to leave for America without my having been informed of his plan to leave us. Mr. de Lafayette is in Auvergne; my family is scattered, I live alone, and although I am close to Paris, news reaches me late and often escapes me entirely. Since I would be dismayed to miss such a welcome opportunity to send you greetings, I am writing in haste, for fear of not finishing in time.
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17 AUGUST 1804 I thanked you most warmly for your exceptional kindness in sending your precious gift, but I am told that my letters may not have reached you, since I did not take the wartime precaution of sending multiple copies. I have no fear that you could suspect me of ingratitude. You know only too well, alas, that we hardly lack gratitude for the kindnesses that bring honor to us. Madame de Tessé’s pride replies to Mr. Jefferson with the semblance of kindheartedness, but that is not enough. I must persuade you, Sir, that my heart is imbued with gratitude for your continual goodness, and let you know the results of your package. The magnolia plants arrived too sickly to be revived. The sassafras and flowering dogwood, although sickly, did revive vigorously enough, for the most part, to give us hope of saving them. The acorns grew so quickly that I have enough to plant a large garden with beautiful oak trees. The walnuts were equally successful, and I expect at least as many next year, since germination does not typically occur until the second year. The same is true of the hedge roses. Most of the tulip tree seeds were dry (the gardener had not harvested them carefully). I feared they would give nothing. Indeed, they produced about a hundredth of what they would have if they had been healthy, but that was enough to make me happy. Our tulip trees now produce enough seeds so that even if they give a thousandth of what they do in America, we will still have more than enough. I would always prefer three handfuls of seeds from an American tulip tree to a bushel from a French tree. I would like to meet an American who had seen the plot of land I cleared two years ago. He would be able to inspire you to plant in Monticello, ten years from now. I chose a moist, sunny plot, quite small because my resources did not allow me to cultivate a large one. I planted young trees, for posterity, 15 to 20 feet from my hedges, and surrounded them, for myself, with the loveliest species which grow more quickly. I am careful to keep the soil tilled. My flower beds are surrounded by shrubs, mixed with healthy, vigorous plants which provide shade for them. People say my garden looks as if it were decked out for a party. In two years I will have the pleasure of strolling in the shade of the trees I planted. I suffer less than in the beginning from having to choose among various less-than-ideal options. Initially my friends were hesitant about this place, which Mr. de Tessé allowed me to choose. They did not know what I had to sacrifice to my larger handicaps: age and resources. Today they praise the place as the fruit of talent where it is simply a matter of experience. You can well understand, Sir, how keenly and deeply I appreciate all you have done for Mr. de Lafayette. Had he been born American, I would have praised him. Never for a moment have I stopped admiring him as a compatriot and loving him like a son. My health limps along pretty well for my age. Experience shows that one’s contemporaries are rarely endowed with the muscular strength and balance that are always painful to see diminishing. Please add to your other acts of kindness by reassuring me about your health. It is so precious to your children, friends, and fellow citizens, who are said to be sufficiently enlightened to keep you in your distinguished position.
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18 AUGUST 1804 Mr. de Tessé asks you to accept his respectful attachment along with that of your very humble servant. Noailles de Tessé RC (MoSHi: Jefferson Papers); endorsed by TJ as received 1 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. je vous ai adressé: Madame de Tessé’s acknowledgment has not been found,
but for the box of plants and seeds TJ had sent her, see Vol. 41:666, 674. For previous difficulties with her letters reaching TJ, see Vol. 37:481n.
From Abigail Adams Sir Quincy August 18th 1804 your Letter of July 22d was by some mistake in the post office at Boston sent back as far as Newyork, so that it did not reach me untill the Eleventh of this Month. Candour requires of me a reply. your statement reuspecting Callender, (who was the wretch referd to) and your motives for liberating him, wear a different aspect as explaind by you, from the impression which they had made, not only upon my mind, but upon the minds of all those, whom I ever heard speak upon the subject. with regard to the act under which he was punished, different persons entertain different opinions respecting it. it lies not with me to decide upon its validity. that I presume devolved upon the suprem Judges of the Nation. but I have understood that the power which makes a Law, is alone competent to the repeal, If a ChiefMajestrate can by his will annul a Law. where is the difference between a Republican, and a Despotic Government? That some restraint should be laid upon the asassin, who stabs reputation, all civilized Nations have assented to. in no Country has calumny falshood, and revileing stalked abroad more licentiously, than in this—no political Character has been secure from its attacks. no reputation so fair, as not to be wounded by it, untill truth and falshood lie in one undistinguished heap. if there are no checks to be resorted to in the Laws of the Land, and no reperation to be made to the injured, will not Man become the judge and avenger of his own wrongs, and as in a late instance, the sword and pistol decide the contest? all the Christian and social virtues will be banished the Land, all that makes Life desirable, and softens the ferocious passions of Man will assume a savage deportment, and like Cain of old, every Mans hand will be against his Neighbour. party Spirit is blind Malevolent uncandid, ungenerous, unjust and unforgiving. it is equally so under federal as under Democratic Banners, yet upon both sides are Characters, who possess honest 243
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views, and act from honorable motives, who disdain to be led blindfold. and who tho entertaining different opinions, have for their object the public welfare and happiness. these are the Characters, who abhor calumny and evil speaking. and who will never descend to News paper revileing. and you have done mr Adams justice in believing him, incapable of such conduct. he has never written a line in any News paper to which his Name has not been affixed, since he was Elected president of the united States. the writers in the public papers, and their employers are alltogether unknown to him I have seen and known that much of the conduct of a public Ruler, is liable to be misunderstood, and misrepresented. party hatred by its deadly poison blinds the Eyes and envenoms the heart. it is fatal to the integrity of the moral Character. it sees not that wisdom dwells with moderation, and that firmness of conduct is seldom united with outrageous voilence of sentiment. thus blame is too often liberally bestowed upon actions, which if fully understood and candidly judged would merit praise instead of censure, it is only by the general issue of measures producing banefull or benificial effects that they ought to be tested. you exculpate yourself from any intentional act of unkindness. towards any one, I will freely state that which I referd to in my former Letter, and which I could not avoid considering as personal resentment. Soon after my Eldest Son’s return from Europe, he was appointed by the District Judge to an office into which no political concerns enterd, personally known to you, and possessing all the qualifications. you yourself being Judge. which you had designated for office—as soon as congress gave the appointments to the president you removed him, this looked so particularly pointed, that some of your best Friends in Boston, at that time exprest their regret that you had done so. I must do him the Justice to say, that I never heard an expression from him of censure or disrespect towards you in concequence of it—with pleasure I say that he is not a blind follower of any party. I have written to you with the freedom and unreserve of former Friendship to which I would gladly return could all causes but mere difference of opinion be removed—I wish to lead a tranquil and retired Life under the administration of the Government, disposed to heal the wounds of contention, to cool the rageing fury of party animosity: to soften the Rugged Spirit of resentment, and desirious of seeing my Children and Grand Children, Heirs to that freedom and independence which you and your predecessor, united your efforts to obtain, with these sentiments I reciprocate my sincere wishes for your Health and happiness Abigail Adams 244
18 AUGUST 1804 RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 29 Aug., recorded in SJL as received 28 Aug. Dft (Lb in MHi: Adams Papers). my eldest son’s return: after John Quincy Adams’s recall from Berlin to the United States in 1801, Judge John Davis appointed him a bankruptcy commissioner in Boston. In April 1802, when the Judiciary Act was amended, bankruptcy commissioners were no longer named by
the district judges but by the president. Adams, who had just started receiving income from the commissions, was not appointed under the new system and made an unsuccessful run for Congress in the fall of 1802 (Morris Weisman, “Of Jefferson and Adams and a Commissioner in Bankruptcy,” Commercial Law Journal, 48 [1943], 248-51; Vol. 37:701; Vol. 38:612-13).
To John Barnes Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 18. 1804 I owe Martin Wanscher 35. D. of which he now asks 15. or 20. will you be so good as to make him such a remittance? he lives at the corner of Prince’s & Fairfax streets Alexandria. Accept affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Mr. Barnes”; endorsed by TJ. owe: for plastering done at Monticello beginning 8 May. Wanscher most likely
requested partial payment in a letter of 13 Aug. that has not been found. The account was settled in full on 6 Oct. (mb, 2:1126, 1137; Appendix iv).
From Daniel Carroll Brent Dear Sir/ Washington 18th. Augt 1804 In consequence of your letter previous to your departure from hence, I, some days since, left at the Secretary of State’s office the names of three persons proper to be appointed justices; to witt Samuel Hamilton, Robert Alexander and Samuel N. Smallwood all of them east of the Tibur—The resignation of Carrell, and More renders it necessary that, two shou’d be convenient to the navy yard, the two latter are the most so of any fitted for the office—the former lives immediately on Capitol hill where a justice is often wanted, & one wished for by the citizens—the multiplicity of the business before the justices makes this number necessary to do the business of the City, east of the Tibur; the navy yard alone being an abundant scource—In makeing this selection I took into veiw, the politics, the capacity, the respectability, and standing in society of such persons as occur’d, as most proper to be named; and upon mature consideration (tho’ I have named one federalist) do not think that a better selection, from such 245
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persons as will act, can be named—on the subject of the selection I consulted the Mayor. he thinks with me, that under existing circumstances better can’t be done; & the number necessary—Hamilton & Alexander are republicans Mr. Alexander tho’ a young man, is of genteel connections, possesses real property in the City, & is a member of the Council—Hamilton is respected and possesses good property in Charles County Maryland—Smallwood, tho’ a federalist, is not violent or bitter in his politics, on the contrary, I believe, satisfied with the present state of things—is one of our best & most active militia Captains, has real property here, & is also a member of the present Council—More justices are wanted, one between the Presidents house & the Capitol, one or two in the east side of the Branch, & two or three at least in Geo: Town; I have not named any persons for these situations; first because I know no person so proper,1 between the Presidents house & the Capitol, as Majr. Van Ness, & I did not think it prudent, either to name him, or consult him on the subject untill I knew whether it woud be agreeable to you, & because also your letter confined me to the City—as to Levi White in whose favor there is a petition, I can hear nothing to justify me in nameing him. accept my best wishes for your health & assurances of sincere esteem & respect— Daniel C. Brent RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received on 21 Aug. and so recorded in SJL; also endorsed by TJ: “Justices of the peace.” your letter: TJ to Brent, 22 July. left at the secretary of state’s office: see enclosure listed at Daniel Brent to TJ, 7 Aug.
carrell, and more: Daniel Carroll and Benjamin More, whom TJ appointed justices of the peace for Washington County in 1801 (Vol. 33:674-5). 1
MS: “poper.”
From John Coles of Boston May it please the President of the United States, Sir, Boston Augt. 18th. 1804. For a Citizen in the low walks of life to attempt to address the first Magistrate of the Nation, must be considered, as the undersigned conceives, great presumption, did not a paliating motive plead in some degree as his excuse,—Namely, the Union of his, and our common Country. Enclosed Sir, is the description of an “Emblem of the United States,” which has receiv’d general patronage in Boston, by the first characters on all sides, and is now in progression, under the hands of a 246
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Masterly Engraver, and is expected to be presented to the public in about two months from this.—shou’d the undersigned and a great part of the inhabitants of Boston, be so happy as to see the Signature of the President to one of the papers enclosed, it will be esteemed a most obliging public, and private favor. the President’s most Obedt. & most humble servant Jno. Coles. Senr. P.S. Should the President think proper to cause one of those pieces to be enclos’d, and directed to John Coles Sr., (Painter, forwarded by the Mail to Mr. Hastings’ Post Office in Boston, it will be gratefully receiv’d by the Presidents devoted servant. Jno. Coles. Senr. Author and Proprietor of the work RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States of America”; at foot of first page: “(Please to turn over)”; endorsed by TJ as received 28 Aug. and so recorded in SJL; also endorsed by TJ: “subscribed for 1. copy.” Enclosure: see below. John Coles, Sr. (d. 1809), was living in Boston by 1782, when he formed a partnership with the engraver John Norman. Coles published Norman’s engravings of portraits of George and Martha Washington as well as a map of New England. Starting in 1796, Coles began listing himself in Boston directories as a heraldry painter, a trade he appears to have continued until his death (Walter Kendall Watkins, “John Coles, Heraldry Painter,” Old-Time New England, 21 [1931], 12942; New-England Palladium, 19 Sep. 1809; The Boston Directory, Containing the Names of the Inhabitants, Their Occupations, Places of Business, and DwellingHouses [Boston, 1796], 30; The Boston Directory; Containing the Names of the Inhabitants, Their Occupations, Places of Business, and Dwelling-Houses [Boston, 1809], 40; David Bosse, “‘To Promote Useful Knowledge’: An Accurate Map of the Four New England States by John Norman and John Coles,” Imago Mundi, 52 [2000], 144-6; Henry Wilder Foote, “Benjamin Blyth, of Salem: EighteenthCentury Artist,” Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 3d ser., 71 [1953-57], 75).
In July, an unattributed description announced the impending publication of an “Emblem of the United States of America.” An oval chain with 17 links would surround an image of Peace sitting on a globe, “a pleasing anticipation of our future glory.” Peace, “displayed on a white field, as discriptive of innocence, and surrounded with an azure or blue border, as a clear and unruffled horizon,” would bear the “stripes of our standard” and would present an olive branch in her right hand. A shield and images for commerce, agriculture, and the arts would complete the emblem. The author, presumably Coles, exhorted Americans to “cherish and keep alive the vital spark of Union” so that it might “glow into a blaze, that will illuminate the terestrial globe!” Engraved by Samuel Harris and published by Coles in Boston in September as Emblem of the United States of America. Peace with All Nations; Partiality to None, the image showed Peace—essentially a standard representation of Columbia—holding an American flag in her left hand with a shield emblazoned with the American seal leaning against her. Ships sailed on the horizon, a testament to the nation’s commercial prowess, and plants signifying agriculture grew next to the shield. Below the globe were an easel, lute, and books (Boston Gazette, 30 July; E. McSherry Fowble, Two Centuries of Prints in America, 1680-1880: A Selective Catalogue of the Winterthur Museum Collection [Charlottesville, Va., 1987], 463).
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To William Curtis Sir Monticello Aug. 18. 04 Your favor of July 24. came to my hands the 7th. inst. and I shall with pleasure give you the substance of my transactions on behalf of the late mrs Ariana Randolph. in the year 97. she wrote to me stating the depth of her distresses, the arrearages due to her on her marriagecontract, and solliciting my aid to procure what was due to her. Peter Randolph, Peyton Randolph and Philip Grymes had been securities for John Randolph, her husband, that on allowing him to recieve her marriage portion from her trustees, she should after his death recieve a certain annuity for life. the representatives of these gentlemen therefore were now liable, and large arrearages were due. it was understood that Peter Randolph’s estate was no further solvent, & of course that the whole obligation survived to mr E. Randolph the representative of Peyton, & P. Grymes son of P. Grymes. I informed her of the difficulties under which her son laboured, that she might indeed recover the whole from mr Grymes, but that he could instantly on motion recover a moiety from her son, & perhaps by confinement deprive his family of his support; & therefore proposed that on mr Grymes’s paying promptly one half of the arrearages, for the immediate relief of her distresses, she should relinquish his responsability for the other half, and recieve that from her son when he should be able to pay it. she wrote me an express approbation of this proposition, & sent a joint & several power of attorney to mr Boardly & myself to release and discharge mr Grymes from the paiment of one half, on his actual paiment of the other. altho empowered to act separately, & instructed by her as to the special act, yet I asked the advice of mr Boardly on the subject, who wrote me his full concurrence in the release. in the mean time mr Grymes had confessed judgment for the whole arrearages. I thereupon informed him that if he would make prompt paiment of a moiety, he should be released from his responsability for the other, which should be looked for from his co-security. he did so, and I gave him a release. this respected the arrearages only. as the matter now stands therefore the representatives of mrs Randolph are entitled to demand the other moiety from mr E. Randolph & the representatives of Peter Randolph, and the subsequent annuities from mr Grymes, E. Randolph & Peter R’s representatives or either of them: as to any demands against mrs Randolph which might be set in opposition to her claims and induce her to accept one half as a compromise for the whole, I can affirm that no such pretention entered into the transaction, and that the letters of herself, mr E. Randolph & mr Grymes in 248
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my possession, will prove neither of these persons had any such idea. you ask for a copy of her power of attorney to me, but it is a very long instrument, and goes to the single act of the release only, and I have no secretary here to copy it. I will however exhibit it to any person who shall call on me here on your behalf, and be very ready to give you any supplementary information you shall desire while I am here. the papers being voluminous and deposited here, I should not be able to answer from Washington, to which place I do not go however till the latter end of September. I have acted in this business as a volunteer only. habits of intimate friendship in the family of the late John Randolph disposed me cordially to befriend the widow & residue of the family. I considered myself as an umpire among all the parties, anxious to serve all with justice: it was the means of procuring great relief to her before her death, without having brought distress on any of those who were dear to her. the same affections to the family would have induced me to accept the guardianship as sollicited by the amiable young gentleman we so unhappily lost; but that my public vocations would not have left me the time which a just attention to the discharge of the duties would have required. I tender you the salutations of friendship & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of first page: “William Curtis esq.”; endorsed by TJ. William Curtis (ca. 1757-1806) represented Middlesex County in the Virginia General Assembly in the mid-1780s, and married Ariana Grymes, a granddaughter of Ariana Jenings Randolph, in 1802 (wmq, 1st ser., 2 [1894], 226; vmhb, 28 [1920], 187; Cynthia Miller Leonard, comp., The General Assembly of Virginia, July 30, 1619-January 11, 1978: A Bicentennial Register of Members [Richmond, 1978], 150, 154, 161; Vol. 34:11). Curtis’s favor of 24 July has not been found, but is recorded in SJL as received on 7 Aug. in the year 97. she wrote to me: none of the letters exchanged between Ariana Randolph and TJ in 1797 have been found; see Vol. 32:64n. TJ asked the advice of John Beale Bordley, a half brother of Ariana Randolph, in August 1800. His response the following month has not been found (Vol. 31:388n; Vol. 32:64n, 117).
i thereupon informed him: TJ to Philip Ludwell Grymes, 30 Aug. 1800 (Vol. 32:118-19). i gave him a release: TJ to Philip Ludwell Grymes, 24 Mch. 1801 (Vol. 33:428-9). Bordley and TJ jointly held Ariana Randolph’s power of attorney. Although TJ received a copy of the legal instrument from the estate’s executor, Robert Gourlay, in 1801, it has not been found (Vol. 32:63; Vol. 33:39-40). In May 1801, Ariana Randolph’s grandson Charles Wyndham Grymes requested that TJ accept the guardianship for himself and his two sisters, but TJ declined and Philip Ludwell Grymes was named instead (Vol. 34:11-12, 53-4, 97-8; Vol. 37:146). gentleman we so unhappily lost: Wyndham Grymes died in a duel in Richmond in 1803 (Alexandria Advertiser and Commercial Intelligencer, 19 Apr. 1803).
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From William Dunbar Dear Sir Natchez 18th. Augt. 1804 I have received the honor of your letter of the 17th. Ulto. which suffered a small delay by being enclosed to Mr. West & prevented my reply by last post. Fortunately the Expedition had not taken its departure, nor had I possitively engaged any one as Geographer to the party, so that no person can feel disappointment by the suspension, unless it should prove so to Dor. Hunter: In consequence of the permission you are pleased to grant me, I have determined to make an Excursion up the Washita river and to the hot springs; this interesting part of Louisiana cannot be seen by the party in the Spring, I therefore give it the preference; the Springs are supposed to be (by the sinuosities of the rivers) upwards of 500 miles from the Missisippi; they are Situated near a smaller branch1 of the Washita not always navigable, so that there may be 40 or more miles to travel by land. Immediately on the receipt of your letter, I wrote to Colo. Freeman to suspend preparations for the principal expedition, and in lieu of the larger boat to provide only a good strong, flat-bottomed, broad & safe Canoe or piraugue, fitted up in the plainest manner, and such as may be impelled rapidly against the stream by six oars, which I have requested him to dispatch with all convenient speed manned by a discreet non-commissd. officer and six privates with 3 months rations. By my letter of the 4th. inst: to the Secretary at war, you will have seen that Dor. Hunter was gone down to New Orleans to expedite the preparations & bring up the Escort: since that time I have further intelligence that if the Expedition had gone up the river, there is no doubt it would have terminated a little beyond the American post of Nakitosh by Spanish opposition. I have now written to Dor. Hunter to put on board the small boat a proportional part of the matters provided, not doubting that he will himself accompany me on this excursion; it will fill up his time agreeably, and will present objects to exercize his talents in his favorite line: at the Washita Settlement we shall meet with old hunters and others capable of giving interesting details of the Countries high up the western rivers, which added to our own researches, will form a mass of information, which I have no doubt will induce Congress to make a more Liberal provision for the more important Expedition of the ensuing season. With the highest respect, I have the honor to be Your most Obedient Servant William Dunbar 250
18 AUGUST 1804 RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 14 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. Dft (Lb in Ms-Ar: William Dunbar Papers). Dearborn had instructed Lieutenant Colonel Constant freeman, the U.S. army commander at New Orleans, to provide Dunbar with men, equipment, and provisions for his expedition (Dearborn to Dunbar, 31 Mch., in DNA: RG 107, MLS; Bradley, Interim Appointment, 564-6).
letter of the 4th. inst: the War Department received Dunbar’s letter of 4 Aug. “Relative to the proposed expedition on the Red River & Arkansaw” on 4 Sep. (recorded in DNA: RG 107, RLRMS). 1 Dunbar first wrote “an inferior branch” before altering the text to read as above.
From William M. Finlay President and Gentlemen Beaufort S.C. of the Philosophical Society 18th Augt 1804 This Accompanies a Communication on the Precession of the Equinoxes Signed Julius I remain Gentlemen with the Most Sincere Respect.—Your Obdt. Servant— Wm. M. Finlay RC (PPAmP); addressed: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr President of the Philosophical Society ”; franked and postmarked; endorsed for the American Philosophical Society. Recorded in SJL as received 6 Sep. with notation “with a paper signed Julius. A.P.S.” Enclosure: “Extract, from an Essay on Matter and Motion, being an attempt to Explain the Reason of the Precession of the Equinoxes,” accompanied by a statement to the “President, and Gentlemen of the Philosophical Society,” both signed “Julius,” who has “been for Some time past Occupied in compiling And Adjusting a system of practical Astronomy and Geography for the Use of Schools”; a page of diagrams is included; the author submits these papers in application for the Magellanic Premium (MS in same; in Finlay’s hand; addressed to the president of the APS; endorsed for the society). William M. Finlay (d. 1805) was a schoolmaster who taught bookkeeping and
authored a textbook on practical mathematics for merchants. His obituary referred to him as a “promoter of virtue, the patron of science, and friend of mankind” (William M. Finlay, The Arithmetical Magazine, or, Mercantile Accountant, Adapted to the Commerce of the United States of America [New York, 1803]; New-York Evening Post, 2 Dec. 1801, 1, 23 Apr. 1802; Newark, N.J., Centinel of Freedom, 29 Oct. 1805). accompanies a communication: a gift of 200 guineas to the APS in the 1780s endowed the Magellanic Premium, a gold medal awarded “to the author of the best Discovery, or most useful Improvements relating to Navigation or Natural Philosophy.” Authors of entries for the award in 1804 used pseudonyms to mask their identities during the selection process. The submission by “Julius,” read at a meeting of the APS on 21 Sep., did not win the prize (aps, Proceedings, 22, pt. 3 [1884], 135, 361-2, 369).
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To George Jefferson Dear Sir Monticello Aug 18. 1804. I yesterday recieved the 7. boxes and cask sent up by Sneed’s boat. there is still a box of glass sent by Donath of Philadelphia about 6. weeks ago, which I presume reached you some time ago, and also a bale containing counterpanes and a piece of sheeting brought by mr Burwell in the stage to Richmond, which he promised to deliver to you, to be forwarded to me by the stage or any other trusty and immediate conveyance. perhaps he may have left it in the stage office; in which case I must get the favor of you to have it enquired for and forwarded. 9 boxes and 2. barrels were sent from Washington on the 10th. inst. which when recieved I will pray you to forward by the first boat, as also a box of about 30 ℔ of moulded tallow candles. myrtle wax would be preferred but I presume they are not to be had. Affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. George Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ.
Captain Griffin sneed’s boat was the sloop Favorite (Relfs Philadelphia Gazette, 14 June 1804, 14 Mch. 1805).
To James Madison Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 18. 1804. Yours of the 13th. 14th. and 16th. were recieved in the evening of the 16th. I now return you the papers which accompanied them, to wit, the letters of Armstrong, Merry, Monroe, Claiborne, Sevier, Rhea, Clinton, Jones, Vail, Airth Skipwith, the Paris Commissioners, Livingston, Gavino, Wickelhousen, Swan, and Bp. Madison. A more disgusting correspondence between men of sense, than that of Livingston & the Commissioners, I have never read. the errors of opinion into which both have run, cannot be subjects of blame, and were of a nature to do no harm, (except the non-procedure of the Commrs. till ratification) because the Convention had provided a corrective. but all of them deserved to be immediately superseded for having mingled their old-womanish quarrels with their official communications, & suffered them to influence their public duties. the quarrelsome disposition of Livingston is a trait in his character unknown before to me. he has quarreled with every public agent with whom he had any thing to do. thus he quarreled with his collegue Monroe, his Secretary of legation Sumpter, our Consul at Paris, Skipwith, with the Commissioners, and his letters to the department of state have been 252
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rising in the arrogance of their style, till that of May 3. is such as, had he not been coming away, would have justified our informing him that we should make no further use of his services. I have signed the blanks for the new titles of Bonaparte. the letter of Credence must of course be under a flying seal, and, I think Armstrong should carry them open as he recieves them, to Talleyrand, fill the blanks under his direction, and deliver them. it will be a proof of our respect to the right of every nation to adopt what form, or firm of government it pleases. Accept my affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson RC (DLC: Madison Papers, Rives Collection); at foot of text: “The Secretary of State.” Notation in SJL: “Livingston. Credence Armstrong.” PoC (DLC); en-
dorsed by TJ. Enclosures: see Madison’s letters of 13, 14, and 16 Aug. that of may 3.: see Madison to TJ, 4 Aug., Enclosure No. 2.
From James Madison Dear Sir Aug. 18. 84. [i.e. 1804] I recd. yesterday your two favors of the 15 & 16th. Among those now inclosed is a renewal of Pichon’s complaints which strengthens your observations in the close of yours of the last date. He is well founded in the view he takes of the abuse made by the British ships of their connection with the Harbour of N.Y. He exacts too much however in requiring our effective “surveillance” over the jurisdictional limit of the U.S. which in the extent from St. Croix to St. Mary wd. be impossible, & if possible call for a force & expence inconsistent with our whole system of policy. Such a surveillance even over the limit connected with all our numerous harbors would exceed our reasonable obligation, and render an exclusion of Belligerent ships altogether the more eligible horn of the dilemma. Nor would even this course avoid all difficulty; for questions might still arise whether certain acts were committed within or within the distance of a league from the shore, and without a force every where, the prohibition of our ports &c. might be insulted as is now that of the general law of Nations. These observations are not meant to invalidate the policy of that degree of force which is contemplated for the defence of our ports & coasts. Such a provision as a reasonable effort to maintain our neutral character will be a satisfactory answer to such of the Belligerent nations as are not unreasonable in their complaints & expectations. Barney’s letter with its enclosure from Paris form another comment on the squabble between Mr. L. & the Comissonrs. If Barney’s 253
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claim has been rejected on the ground stated, it seems to be erroneous unless the claim arose from Transactions in which he was quoad such, a foreigner, tho’ in general a Citizen of the U.S. The Convention however having provided for its own exposition & execution, the Executive can only act on it diplomatically, or thro the means of more information. This course has been taken in the case of both Barney & Swan. Documents shewing that Barney had been paid, were obtained thro’ Genl. Smith before I left Washington, and forwarded to Paris, with an intimation that it was an act of justice to fair claimants not to let in unfair ones for a share in the 20 Miln. which were likely to be insufficient for the former. Truly & respectfully yours James Madison RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department on 21 Aug. and so recorded in SJL, with a brace connecting it to Madison’s letter of 21 Aug. and notation “Pichon. Barney. Meditn. ratfn Georgia”; also endorsed by TJ: “Pichon.— Barney.” Enclosures: (1) Louis André Pichon to Madison, Philadelphia, 11 Aug., criticizing the United States for not taking proper measures to enforce international rules regarding the presence of belligerent warships in neutral ports, in particular the lack of surveillance of its jurisdictional limits; Pichon cites a recent case in which British cruisers anchored off Sandy Hook to blockade French frigates, receive supplies from New York, and impress sailors and passengers from British and American vessels; in this state of affairs, Pichon argues, American neutrality has been rendered illusory (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:589-91). (2) Joshua Barney to Madison, Baltimore, 6 Aug., complaining that the commissioners at Paris have rejected his claim because he was serving in the French navy at the time his claim originated; Barney encloses an extract of a letter from Paris describing the “infernal discord” between Robert R. Livingston and the commissioners, and opinions by Maryland attorney general Luther Martin supporting Barney’s assertion of his claim (same, 565-6). (3) Probably Thomas FitzSimons to Madison, Philadelphia, 10 Aug., expressing the concerns of Philadelphia’s merchants over delays in settling their claims on France; FitzSimons also com-
plains that vessels trading with “the ports of St Domingo in Possession of the Blacks” have been forced to arm themselves for protection against “french Cruizers”; most of the cruisers sailing under French colors lack commissions and are plundering American vessels indiscriminately; FitzSimons suggests negotiating an arrangement with the French government to permit U.S. trade with the island (same, 580-1). (4) Probably William C. C. Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 12 July, stating that the call for “a meeting of the free people of Colour for the purpose of Memorializing Congress” created “inquietude” among whites in the city that is only now subsiding; prompted by city officials, Claiborne expressed his disapprobation to nine of the “influential free men of Colour,” who gave assurances of their peaceful intentions and attachment to the present government; Claiborne will continue his efforts to maintain peace between “White and mulatto inhabitants” and reiterates his belief that there is nothing to fear from either the free black or the enslaved population, although he worries that Louisiana may experience some of the “misfortunes of St. Domingo” if Congress permits a continuation of the African slave trade; support for the trade is almost universal in Louisiana, but Claiborne looks forward to 1 Oct., when the ban on slave imports will go into effect (same, 444-5). (5) Probably a private letter from Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 13 July; Claiborne believes that the memorial to Congress, which has gathered many signatures, was written by Ed-
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18 AUGUST 1804 ward Livingston with the assistance of Daniel Clark and Evan Jones; the “highly inflammatory” document could generate discontent among Louisianians; Pierre Derbigny, Jean Noël Destréhan, and Pierre Sauvé will carry the memorial to Washington; all are natives of France and “warm advocates” of the slave trade; Claiborne has a good opinion of Derbigny and Sauvé, but warns that Destréhan is attached to France and greatly mortified by the cession of Louisiana (same, 448-9). (6) Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 14 July, enclosing an account of the proceedings of the memorialists to Congress and an address signed by many prominent inhabitants expressing their gratitude for the benevolent acts of the king of Spain; Claiborne has long been uncomfortable with the continued presence of the Marqués de Casa Calvo and Juan Ventura Morales and hopes that all the agents of France and Spain will soon be withdrawn from Louisiana (same, 451). (7) Probably S. B. Wigginton to Madison, Bordeaux, 31 May, reporting that U.S. passports are frequently abused in Europe and recommending that a physical description of the holder be added to deter future misuse; Wigginton also complains that many Loyalists who left the United States at the end of the American Revolution have obtained “protections, very often to the injury of the nation,” from foreign officials (same, 269-70). (8) Probably Wigginton to Madison, 9 June, forwarding a copy of his 31 May letter (same, 303). (9) Probably Archibald Wilson, Jr., to Madison, Greenock, Scotland, 13 Apr., suggesting that it would be more
convenient for American vessels to locate the U.S. consul for the River Clyde at Greenock instead of Glasgow (same, 44). (10) Probably Wilson to Madison, Greenock, 18 Apr., repeating the recommendations made in his 13 Apr. letter; his familiarity with the subject comes from his father, who has been in the commission business at Greenock for a number of years (same, 79). (11) Probably John Lamson to Madison, Trieste, 2 May, seeking reimbursement for expenses incurred as a result of his accepting a commission as consul (same, 129-30). (12) Probably Jacob Ridgway to Madison, Antwerp, 15 June, enclosing a copy of his 9 May letter; he has sent his commission as commercial agent at Antwerp to Livingston, but has yet to receive his exequatur (same, 321-2). (13) Probably George Joy to Madison, London, 16 Apr., reporting on recent diplomatic efforts to secure the release of, and restitution for, American vessels seized at Buenos Aires in 1802; he also comments on the French execution of the Duc d’Enghien for his alleged involvement in the recent assassination plot against Napoleon, as well as the publication of letters by Francis Drake, the British minister at Munich, that allegedly demonstrate Britain’s involvement in conspiracies against the emperor (same, 70-3). yours of the last date: actually TJ to Madison, 15 Aug. quoad such: that is, quoad hoc, meaning “with respect to this” (Bryan A. Garner, ed., Black’s Law Dictionary, 8th ed. [St. Paul, Minn., 2004], 1283; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:616n).
From John Thomson Mason Dear Sir George Town 18th Augt. 1804 Your obliging favour of the 12th. has this moment reached me. You mentioned to me your intention to appoint Mr Jones, with which I was much pleased but having once heard from himself that he would not accept, I mentioned Mr Sprigg to you. Mr Jones may however have changed his mind, I hope he has, for if he will attend to the business, he is unquestionably better quallified than any Man in the District. 255
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Between Mr Duckett & Mr Sprigg I feel a difficulty in deciding, they are both respectable clever young men, Mr Duckett has the most experience, and upon that ground, is probably to be preferred But I doubt whether he will now accept, since his application to you thro’ Mr Duvall, the death of the Clerk of the House of Representatives in the State of Maryland has happened, and Mr Duckett if he chooses may with certainty supply his place. With great respect and real regard I am D Sir your Obedt Servt. John. T. Mason RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 21 Aug. and “Ducket. Sprigg. Jones” and so recorded in SJL. death of the clerk: William Harwood. He was succeeded by John Bowie
Duckett (Easton, Md., Herald and Eastern Shore Intelligencer, 17 July; Frederick, Md., Republican Advocate, 19 Apr. 1805).
To Henry Dearborn Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 19. 04. A candidate for the office of Genl. Irvine is now presented of a higher order than we have before had. I do not know how far Colo Miles may possess that mercantile fitness which the duties of the office call for, but on all other points he stands on so high ground as to overrule the charitable inclinations we might have felt for other candidates. the respectability of his character, and his standing in the eyes of his state cannot but attract consideration. Accept salutations of affection and respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Secretary at War.” Enclosure: Thomas McKean to TJ, 14 Aug. (see TJ to McKean, 19 Aug.).
To James Madison Dear Sir Monticello Aug 19. 04. In a conversation with mr Granger not long before we left Washington he mentioned that he was about to establish a post line from Natchez to New Orleans, and must place an office at Baton rouge. I told him that that should have good previous consideration in the present jealous state of the Spanish officers; that perhaps they might even stop our mail carrier. I heard no more of it till last night I recieved the inclosed letter from mr Granger, informing me he should 256
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not proceed in it till further directions. I should suppose it best that he should forward the blank commissions to Govr. Claiborne, but that Claiborne should be immediately instructed to enter into explanations with the Marquis Casa Calvo for making this establishment for mutual convenience, with an express declaration, if desired, that it is by mutual consent, and is not to be construed as either strengthening or weakening the right of either nation to the country. if, on consideration, you approve of this and will either so write yourself to mr Granger, or inform me that I may write, your letter to Claiborne will get sufficiently the start to have the matter arranged by the time Granger’s commissions reach New Orleans, and the delay of executing the law will thus be shortened. I inclose a letter from a mr Damen whom I knew at Amsterdam. he was quite a republican, and I was under the impression of his being a very good man. some personal feelings may perhaps enter into his letter. as he desires it to be secret, be so good as to return it, only retaining the papers it inclosed as they are not secret and are proper to be filed away in the office. Affectionate salutations with hopes of seeing you shortly. Th: Jefferson RC (DLC: Madison Papers); at foot of text: “The Secretary of State.” Notation in SJL: “post at Baton Rouge. Damen.” PoC (DLC). Enclosures: (1) Gideon Granger to TJ, 9 Aug. (2) Herman Hendrik Damen to TJ, 11 Apr.
To Thomas McKean Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 19. 04. I recieved last night your favor of the 14th. and have this morning sent it on to Genl. Dearborne as I had before done several applications for the same office, leaving to him to chuse among them. the office calls for a good deal of mercantile qualification: if Colo. Miles possesses this also it will add to the advantages of his competition. Neither the subject of the application which you mention to have come to you from Prince George’s, nor the place, present any thing unexpected. from a friendly hand the object would have been perfectly correct: but from that quarter it cannot be misunderstood. despairing of success by their own strength, the only hope of the federalists is in dividing their opponents. this was to be expected, and we must count on it’s not being always unsuccesful. so eager are men to carry their points that we shall often see minorities of republicans giving law to majorities by accepting the aid of the little band of federalists. the evil however will be the less as it will take place, not between 257
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questions of republicanism or federalism, but only of more or less republicanism. with respect to myself, after the approbation of the whigs, the disapprobation of the Tories is the rock of my greatest confidence. were they to express an approbation of any measure of mine (which has never yet happened) I should take it under severe reconsideration, on a strong presumption of it’s being wrong. Accept my friendly salutations & sincere wishes for your health & happiness. Th: Jefferson RC (PHi); addressed: “Governor Mc.Kean Philadelphia”; franked; endorsed by McKean. PoC (DLC).
as i had before: see TJ to Dearborn, 8 Aug.
To Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 19. 04. I recieved two days ago the polygraph lately sent me. it arrived in good order, except that the forked spiral spring which suspends the bar with the friction cylinder was broke. in attempting to connect it again by links it broke repeatedly, and tho’ I succeeded at last so as to use it, yet it is become so short as to perform it’s functions poorly. perhaps you could send me a new spring (for that portion only) by post, protecting it between two slips of wood or pasteboard. the post is but 4. days from Philadelphia here. On 5. months full trial of the Polygraph with two pens, I can now conscientiously declare it a most precious invention. it’s superiority over the copying press is so decided that I have entirely laid aside that. I only lament it had not been invented 30. years sooner. I lament nothing more than the not having been able to preserve copies of my letters during the war, which to me would now have been a consoling possession. the alterations in the two polygraphs made for me are solid improvements; and liking as I do to write with a quill pen rather than a steel one, I value the last pen cases you sent me because they admit by their screws so delicate an adjustment. as the quill-pen requires to be kept in the ink, I add a latch behind the left standard, 3½ I. long, which turns down in front of the top of the pen, & holds it perpendicular in the ink socket. without this the pen hangs by it’s point which crooks too much to be used. instead too of the two large pannels of the cover being of mahogany, I substitute wire netting, which equally protects the machinery, & at the same time admits air and light. It is not in my power to inform you of the places from which the minerals came which I sent you, because I have forgotten 258
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the name of the gentleman who sent them, & therefore cannot turn to his letter. if ever I should recollect it, or otherwise accidentally find his letter I will send it to you. Accept my friendly salutations & assurances of great esteem. Th: Jefferson RC (TxU); at foot of text: “Mr. Peale.” PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ.
polygraph lately sent me: see Peale to TJ, 22 July. minerals: see Peale’s query at 24 July.
From Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Museum Aug. 19. 1804. This morning my son Rembrandt shewed me his invention of Pens to hold a greater quantity of Ink than Pens made in the common fashion—with the hope that you will be as pleased with it as myself, I hasten to send you the enclosed Pens, and as every trifle which tends to the economizing of time must be valuable to those of industrous habits, I beleive I am in my line of duty in not delaying this communication although I should have nothing more to add to it. I have some anxiety to know if your Polygraph performs to your liking. It was my intention to have examined it on my return from New york—but my Son Rubens says it was so exact in the touch at every moovement that he prefered sending it off.—Mr. Barnes has remited me payment. I am once more resuming my Pensil—with the hope and belief that I can produce something better, than those Portraits which I painted formerly. My work is only for the Museum. Will you be so obliging as to use your interest with Mr. Galatine to prevail on him to sitt for me? I ought to make what additions I can of Portraits of distinguished Charactors, as this collection will in a future day be a valuable part of my Museum. I have in view the execution of one large historical picture, which perhaps may be my last work in that line. I am with much respect your friend C W Peale RC (DLC); at foot of text: “His Excellency Thos Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 25 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. PoC (Lb in PPAmP: Peale-Sellers Papers). TJ listed a payment of $50 to Peale on 10 Aug.; see TJ to John Barnes, 2 Sep. your interest with mr. galatine: Peale’s son Rembrandt executed a portrait
of Albert Gallatin in 1805 (Doris Devine Fanelli and Karie Diethorn, History of the Portrait Collection, Independence National Historical Park and Catalog of the Collection [Philadelphia, 2001], 142). one large historical picture: Peale began painting The Exhumation of the Mastodon in 1806; see Peale, Papers, v. 2, pt. 2:748; Vol. 35:xlviii.
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To William Pelham Monticello Aug. 19. 04.
Th: Jefferson presents his compliments to mr Pelham and his thanks for mr Austin’s book, which he shall with pleasure employ his first leisure moments in reading. RC (Mary Pelham McNamara, Houston, Texas, 1960); addressed: “Mr. William Pelham Boston”; franked; endorsed. Born in Williamsburg, Virginia, William Pelham (1759-1827) served as a surgeon during the Revolutionary War. After traveling through Europe in the early 1790s, Pelham returned to the United States, purchased a bookshop in Boston in 1796, and eventually opened a lending library. In the early 1800s, Pelham also entered the publishing business. He sold his Boston firm in 1811. After a series of moves through New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, Pelham eventually joined Robert Owen’s utopian community in New Harmony, Indiana, in 1825, where
he edited the New-Harmony Gazette until his death (Caroline Creese Pelham, “William Pelham,” wmq, 2d ser., 8 [1928], 42-5; Boston Columbian Centinel, 18 June 1796; William Pelham, William Pelham Respectfully Solicits the Attention of the Public to the Following Conditions of His Circulating Library [Boston, 1796]; William Pelham, Catalogue of Pelham’s Circulating Library [Charlestown, Mass., 1801]; New-Harmony Gazette, 7 Feb. 1827). mr austin’s book: with a letter dated Boston, 10 Aug., but not found, Pelham likely sent TJ a copy of William Austin’s travel letters (William Austin, Letters from London: Written during the Years 1802 1803 [Boston, 1804]; Sowerby, No. 3877).
From Robert Williams Sir; No Carolina augt. 19th. 1804 In perusing my papers which I brought with me from the Mississippi Territory—I find the enclosed letter which I suppose to have been deliver’d to Mr. Briggs or myself before we left that quarter, but by the length of our Journey and Various modes of traveling, got misplaced I have therefore thought proper to forward it by mail, and hope no material inconvenience has or will Occur in Consequence of its delay— Mr. Briggs tarried with me 3 or 4 days—left here on thursday. had I have known a few weeks of his intention to return so soon, would have been ready to have gone on with him—I Shall endeavour to start early in next month and expect to be in the Territory (Natchez Settlemt) as soon as he, as he will travel very slow, and go by Orleans— Mr. Briggs is much pleased with the Country this way for the road— I am with great resp. yr. Huml st Robert Williams RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Williams; at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esq.”; endorsed by TJ as received
11 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: probably Richard Claiborne to TJ, 16 Feb. 1804.
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20 AUGUST 1804 Robert Williams (1773-1836) was a North Carolina lawyer who served in the House of Representatives from 1797 until 1803, when TJ appointed him a commissioner of land claims in the Mississippi Territory. Two years later TJ appointed Williams Mississippi territorial governor. His term in office was marked by dissension. He and territorial secretary Cowles Mead openly accused each other of Burrism and disloyalty to TJ. Williams fought with the military over his rights as the civil authority, twice dissolved the general assembly, and revoked at least three presidential commissions. In November 1808, Williams wrote TJ relinquishing the
governorship as of 3 Mch. 1809. When he attempted to rescind the resignation a month later, TJ informed him that the administration had already selected a “most worthy & capable” successor. Williams returned to North Carolina, where he served as adjutant general of the state militia before retiring to a plantation in Louisiana (Biog. Dir. Cong.; Dunbar Rowland, Encyclopedia of Mississippi History, 2 vols. [Madison, Wis., 1907], 2:950, 972-8; John L. Cheney, ed., North Carolina Government, 1685-1979: A Narrative and Statistical History [Raleigh, 1981], 183; Williams to TJ, 10, 16 Nov., 7 Dec. 1808; TJ to Williams, 17 Jan. 1809).
From Joel Barlow Dear Sir Paris 20 Aug. 1804— Mr. Emmet the Bearer of this was an eminent Counceller in Dublin where he has been grievously persecuted by the English government for his political opinions & his attachment to those principles of liberty which ought to govern all societies. he is now moving to America in search of a second country, a movement which, if our fathers had not made it for us, you & I might have been making at this moment. May I beg you my dear Sir to favor him with your good advice, as well as other acts of friendship & protection which may be useful to him. I know not what fortune he may carry with him, except that of a fair & honorable reputation, great acquirements & talents. I am, Dear Sir, with great attachment & respect—yr. obt. Sert. Joel Barlow RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Mr. Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ as received 15 Dec. “by mr Emmet” and so recorded in SJL. Thomas Addis emmet, in Paris to obtain French support for an Irish rebellion,
emigrated to the United States after the Dublin execution of his brother, Robert Emmet (Thomas Addis Emmet, Memoir of Thomas Addis and Robert Emmet: With Their Ancestors and Immediate Family, 2 vols. [New York, 1915], 1:367-8, 556).
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From Jean André Chrestien Monsieur Le président, montpellier Le 20. août 1804. La place éminente que vous tenés de la confiance de vos concitoyens annonce vos grandes qualités. ce que m’a dit de vous un de vos compatriotes, mr pantin, me donne la certitude qu’au nombre de vos vertus, on compte l’amour de l’humanité. j’ai cru d’aprés cela, faire à votre excellence, une offrande digne d’elle, en lui adressant un ouvrage de médecine qui me parait présenter de l’utilité dans le traitement de la fièvre jaune, par le nouveau mode d’administrer des remèdes qui, employés à l’intérieur peuvent dans bien des cas être insuffisans, et quelquefois aggraver la maladie. Si je suis assés heureux pour ne pas me tromper dans mes conjectures, et être utile à votre patrie, je demande à votre excellence qu’Elle daigne m’en faire instruire. je suis avec le plus profond respect, De votre excellence, Le trés humble et trés obéissant serviteur. Chrestien méd. p.s. j’ai fait remettre des exemplaires de l’ouvrage que je vous offre, à Messrs Samuel Latham Mitchill, David hossack, médecins à newyork, et à la société philosophique de philadelphie. e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Mister President, Montpellier, 20 Aug. 1804 The great esteem of your compatriots attests to your exceptional qualities. Based on what one of your fellow citizens, Mr. Pantin, told me, I am certain that humanitarianism is among your virtues. That prompts me to make a proposal, worthy of your excellency, by sending you a medical text I believe to be helpful for treating yellow fever. It presents a new way of administering treatments. Currently, treatments, taken internally, are often insufficient and sometimes even exacerbate the illness. If I am correct in judging that I can be useful to your country, I ask your excellency to give me instructions on how to proceed. With the deepest respect, I am your excellency’s very humble and obedient servant. Chrestien, doctor P.S. I entrusted copies of my text to Samuel Latham Mitchill and David Hossack, doctors in New York, and to the Philosophical Society of Philadelphia. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 1 July 1805 and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: probably Chrestien, De la méthode iatroliptice, ou observations pratiques sur l’administration des remèdes a l’extérieur, dans le traitement de maladies
internes (Montpellier, 1803; Sowerby, No. 906). Enclosed in William Jarvis to TJ, 15 May 1805. Jean André (also André Jean) Chrestien (1758-1840) trained as a doctor in
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20 AUGUST 1804 Montpellier and Paris and practiced medicine in the former city. Best known for his advocacy of the use of gold chloride in the treatment of syphilis, about which he wrote in a handful of medical works, he also emphasized topical uses of camphor and opium. In addition, he wrote a pamphlet on smallpox inoculation. A medical professor at the university in Montpellier and a member of the French academy of medicine, Chrestien also served on Montpellier’s municipal council during the French Revolution (A. T. Chrestien, Biographie du docteur A.-J. Chrestien [Montpellier, 1856]; Charles d’Aigrefeuille, His-
toire de la ville Monpellier, depuis son origine jusqu’à notre temps, 4 vols. [Montpellier, 1882; repr. Nimes, 1995], 4:352, 424, 453, 460; J. G. Niel, Recherches et observations sur les effets des préparations d’or du Docteur Chrestien, dans le traitement de plusieurs maladies, et notamment dans celui des maladies syphilitiques [Paris, 1821], i-iii, 359-73). ouvrage de médecine: Chrestien’s treatise included a number of case studies related to treating fevers, some described as bilious. He sent the work to TJ again in 1807 (Chrestien to TJ, 8 Mch. 1807; TJ to Chrestien, 29 Apr. 1808).
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir New York 20th August 1804 I received last Saturday your letter of the 8th inst.—S. Lewis is well qualified as a draughtsman; I have written in order to ascertain the nature of the charges against him whilst in the War department: there are, at all events two other applicants, either of which will do, D. Griffith the author of the Map of Maryland, and one of King’s brothers. On the subject of the Hampton vacancy I wrote what I knew. As to the place of attorney general I fear that it is above M.D.’s rate of legal knowledge & talents. I wonder at J.T.M.’s refusal, and still wait for your further instructions respecting the office of dist. atty. at N. Orleans. That he should speak French appears to me indispensable: if the people of Louisiana shall not be indulged as far as practicable in what relates to language, the difficulty of governing them will be much encreased: they seem to be but one degree above the French West Indians, than whom a more ignorant & depraved race of civilised men did not exist: give them slaves & let them speak French, (for they cannot write it) & they would be satisfied; the first is inadmissible; how far their language should, as they wish, be legally recognised is questionable; but their officers ought at least to understand them, and I fear Williams would never learn. Whilst speaking of Louisiana, let me not forget to inform you that Mr Armstrong told me that Labigarre, who gave one of the list of characters handed by Gen. Wilkinson, is and always was totally unprincipled & that no confidence ought to be placed in what he says. I have made some further enquiries concerning Evan Jones who gave the other 263
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list: it is generally agreed that his manners are stiff, but his integrity irreproachable, and that he has decent talents and a better knowledge of the Province than any other American. At the request of Gen. Dearborn, I had two conversations with Chotteau. He seems well disposed, but what he wants is power and money. He proposed that he should have a negative on all the Indian trading licenses, and the direction & all the profits of the trade carried on by Government with all the Indians of Louisiana1 replacing only the capital. I told him this was inadmissible, and his last demand was the exclusive trade with the Osages, to be effected by granting licenses only to his agents, but that he should not be concerned in the trade with any other nation. The annual consumption of the Osages he states at 40 thd. dollars in goods estimated at their value at the Illinois. The annual consumption of all the Missouri Indians including the Sioux of the Mississipi, he estimates at 300,000 dollars. On account of the slowness of the returns, a capital double of the annual consumption is necessary for carrying the trade. As he may be either useful or dangerous I gave no flat denial to his last request, but told him to modify it in the least objectionable shape and to write to Gen. Dearborn from St. Louis which he said he would do. As to the Government of Upper Louisiana, he is decidedly in favour of a military one & appears much afraid of civil law & lawyers: in some respects he may be right; but as regular laws & courts protect the poor & the ignorant, we may mistrust the predilection, of him who is comparatively rich & intelligent, in favour of the other system. Gen. Dearborn informed me that he had made such arrangements respecting the military stores, as would supercede the necessity of an immediate appointment to fill the vacancy caused by Gen. Irvine’s death. Considering the situation of Pennsylvania, this will be pretty delicate, and I am glad that you may wait till after Gen. Dearborn’s return. Judge Peters has decided that the act giving the power to bind to good behaviour & security of the peace was not intended to ex-territorial cases, and was inapplicable to the case of a vessel arming for Hispaniola; but that if an affidavit was made that the arming was with intention to commit hostilities, either defensive or offensive, against either of the belligerent powers or of a vessel commissioned by either, he should issue writs against the owners & captain under, I believe, the 5th Section of the act of 5th June 1794. I enclose a letter from the collector of Charleston on the same subject, which I will thank you to return after perusal. 264
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I also enclose a letter respecting I. Neufville’s application. The commission should issue before 15th September. The British ships continue the blockade of this port. Amongst other vessels sent to Halifax for adjudication was the Eugenia Cap. Mansfield which has been retaken by a party of armed men in a fishing smack from New London and brought here. Mr Barclay the British Consul wrote immediately on the arrival here of the prize master who had been landed at New London to Mr Merry, and applied to the custom house officers to detain the cargo till further orders from Washington. Having no person here to transcribe I enclose his original letter with the enclosed affidavit. The officers after consulting me answered that the papers &a. of the ship Eugenia which arrived here in possession of Cap. Mansfield were perfectly regular, that she had accordingly been entered, and that the custom house officers had no power by law,2 after the duties were secured, to refuse to the consignees permits for the landing of the cargo, or in any way to detain it. This is exactly true; the collector has no judiciary power; and why, if Capn. Mansfield’s possession was considered as illegal, Mr Barclay did not apply to the district judge who would have immediately ordered the vessel & cargo to be seized & kept in custody of the marshall till after hearing & decision, I cannot tell: unless knowing that there was not the least ground for the capture, which is the fact, he has chosen to make this transaction the ground of a governmental complaint & to use it as an offset against the outrages of the British frigates. I have written to New London to obtain affidavits which I will send to Mr Madison, and have examined Capn. Mansfield. The facts are nearly these— The prize master from ignorance & stupidity was persuaded, first to take a pilot off the east end of Long Island & next to run not only within the Sound but within the harbour of New London where he came at an anchor half a mile above the light house. In his affidavit he says he was under the lee of Fisher’s Island & four miles from the light house; but he has betrayed the truth in his statement of the bearing in which he acknowledges himself West North West3 of the light house. In that situation he was boarded by the revenue cutter and an inspector of customs put on board; he also suffered the former american master & mate to go on shore; but apprehending detention he put the inspector on board of a boat,4 cut his cables & sailed out of the harbour; but the wind being due East he could not go out of the sound through the race & sailed before the wind towards New York. He was retaken two or three hours after without resistance5 by the 265
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fishing sloop on board of which was another officer of the customs. Mansfield reassumed the command of the vessel &, the wind continuing East, proceeded with the officer of customs to New York instead of returning to New London, having previously, as he says, advised the prize master & english crew to go on shore in the sloop, which they did. There were but two muskets on board the recapturing sloop.—There is no doubt that the prize master was guilty of a gross infraction of our revenue laws in discharging the first custom house officer, and in leaving the harbour. Every vessel, even when coming in distress whilst bound to another port, must be reported to the custom house—See 29th, 30th & 60th Sect. of collection law. 4th Volume pages 326, 327 & 377—And by the sd. 29th Sect., it is lawful for the revenue officers to arrest & bring back to such port of the U.S. as is most convenient any vessel departing or attempting to depart before report. Goddard the Officer of the customs, whom I missed seeing & for whose affidavit I have sent, was verbally authorised by the Surveyor to arrest & bring back the vessel: so that the recapture itself was strictly legal. But what was irregular was to order the prize master & crew from the vessel depriving him of the possession he had. If we can make out that he abandoned the vessel every thing will have been regular; but if we cannot, we must rest our defence of that part of the transaction on the omission of the British Consul to have the vessel & cargo judicially arrested in New York. I have written at large in order that Mr Madison may have early knowledge of the facts; for I understand that the captain of the Leander is insolent, and that every subsequent outrage is intended to be justified by this act. Another captured ship has also been recaptured but by the crew, to which it seems there is no objection. With respectful attachment Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin Please to have the goodness to return Mr Barclay’s letter & enclosure. A sketch of the entrance of the Sound is enclosed. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; with interlined notations by TJ (see note 3 below); endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 25 Aug. and “Lewis. Dickerson. Labigarre. Evan Jones. Choteau. vessels arming. Neufville. Eugenia” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures: (1) Thomas Tudor Tucker to Gallatin, Washington, 13 Aug., explaining that he knows Isaac Neufville “but
slightly” and is unfamiliar with his politics, but understands that he is a young man of good character; he encloses a letter from John Woddrop, Charleston, 3 Aug., recommending Neufville to succeed his late father as commissioner of loans (RCs in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Neufville Isaac to be Commr. loans”). (2) Thomas Barclay, British consul general at New York, to the collector of customs and the naval officer of New
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20 AUGUST 1804 York, 10 Aug., informing them that he has transmitted to Anthony Merry an affidavit respecting the conduct of John Mansfield, Robert Parry, and other U.S. citizens who have “illegally and forcibly boarded and taken” the American ship Eugenia when in lawful custody of a British naval officer and bound for the vice admiralty court at Halifax on suspicion that it carried enemy property; the affidavit demonstrates “how improperly and illegally” Mansfield and the others acted; Barclay requests that the collector and naval officer take possession of the ship and prevent the removal of its cargo until they receive orders from the secretary of state or another U.S. official; he states that the actions taken by the commander of the British ship Leander regarding the Eugenia were proper under the law of nations, while those of the American recaptors were “Violently Outrageous and in defiance of all Laws” (Tr in DNA: RG 59, MLR). (3) Affidavit of Alexander Yeats, master’s mate of the Leander, sworn before DeWitt Clinton, 10 Aug.; he states that on 4 Aug., the commander of the Leander, Alexander Skene, ordered Yeats to take possession of the Eugenia and proceed to Halifax with a prize crew; due to the ship’s poor condition and inclement weather, Yeats anchored the Eugenia “under the lee of Fishers Island,” with the New London lighthouse “bearing West South West from the said ship distant four miles”; on the morning of 7 Aug., an officer from the revenue cutter Argus came on board and requested to see the Eugenia’s papers, which Yeats showed to him; while Yeats was returning the papers, Mansfield, the Eugenia’s master, and Parry, the mate, left the ship in the cutter’s boat and rowed to the Argus; they then left the cutter and went to New London; Parry returned to the Eugenia and told Yeats the ship was to be detained and that the collector at New London wished to see the ship’s papers; about midafternoon, Yeats set sail in the Eugenia, but was shortly thereafter approached by a sloop, which fired muskets at the ship; the sloop came alongside about four leagues from shore and about 25 armed men, in-
cluding Mansfield and Parry, boarded and took possession of the Eugenia, then ordered Yeats to give up the ship’s papers to Ebenezer Goddard, a customs inspector from New London; the Eugenia sailed for New York, and Yeats and the prize crew were taken to New London, where a “mob” verbally and physically abused them and persuaded several British seamen to desert; Yeats returned to New York on 9 Aug. (Tr in DNA: RG 59, NL). (4) An undated sketch, in Gallatin’s hand, of the entrance to Long Island Sound at New London, showing the route of the Eugenia and the locations of its anchorage and recapture (MS in DLC: Madison Papers). Other enclosure not found. one of king’s brothers: probably Robert King, Jr., a brother of Washington surveyor Nicholas King (Vol. 37:545-6, 666n; Vol. 41:421n). list of characters: see TJ’s notes on the lists of names sent by James Wilkinson, at 1 July. act of 5th june 1794: “An Act in addition to the act for the punishment of certain crimes against the United States,” section 5 of which covered punishments for preparing military expeditions against countries “with whom the United States are at peace” (U.S. Statutes at Large, 1:381-4). The 1799 collection law was “An Act to regulate the collection of duties on imports and tonnage” (U.S. Statutes at Large, 1:627-704). another captured ship: the ship Little Cornelia, captured by the Leander off Sandy Hook on 6 Aug., was retaken on 8 Aug. by its captain, mate, and cook, who reportedly were the only members of the crew remaining on board (New-York Evening Post, 8 Aug.; New York Daily Advertiser, 18, 21 Aug.). 1 Preceding
six words interlined. two words interlined. interlined “East” above both instances of “West.” 4 Preceding eight words and comma interlined. 5 Preceding two words interlined. 2 Preceding 3 TJ
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From Thomas Truxtun Sir, Perth Amboy 20th August 1804. Amidst the pain I have experienced since the present administration of the Government of the United States by an unprecedented course being pursued towards me—I cannot but beleive that some insidious foes or little minded Myrmidons have excited in your breast an encreased enmity towards me, which seemed at first to have taken root from my labours and toils in faithfully executing my duty agreeable to the orders of the past administration in the very baby hood of our Navy, without the aid of one solitary officer of any sort of experience in marine Naval affairs, or that ever saw a gun fired previously in Anger—: I am certainly Justified in this beleif from the very circumstance of opposition made, and not in the most tender manner, to reward Me for my exertions in embracing every Oppertunity and putting to hazard and risk, Character—life and all that is dear to man under the most unfavourable circumstances—in order to establish thus early a fair national reputation on the ocean—Such a reputation as those powers denied us, who previously were, and have again resumed their insults at our very doors. When you came to the exalted Station which You now fill in the Government of my beloved country—I took the earliest Oppertunity, all You may have heard to the contrary notwithstanding, in determining to act on similar principles and of being as faithful to you as I had been to Washington and Adams and this I now declare in the face of open day and before the world, for the very same instructions I had given in publick orders (Agreeable to the printed copy enclosed) in the moment of our Navy floating below the Yards where the vessels were built—I issued on the first occasion that presented itself in prepareing for an expedition to be conducted under my orders and your Authority—at the same time I transmitted to Mr Secy Smith a Similar Copy to the enclosed—that no enemy who might be excited by envy Jealousy or any other cause or whoes impurity of heart might attempt to falsify me, (as I understood I was discribed as a violent federalist) should have any effect or influence the Government in their confidence of me—Yet I soon discovered a conduct very mysterious— which manifested itself previously and made it appear that I was doomed to exile from the Navy. The sacrifices I made to go into the Navy in the Year 1794 at its commencement cannot be necessary to enumerate, they are well known every where in this country as well as in the principal cities of Europe & Asia, where I am known and even in Africa at the cape of Good 268
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Hope—at all of which places my credit was without limitation—but of what avail can it be for me to add—surely of none when I see others exalted on the most trifling occasions as if to compensate them for the most cruel injuries done to me. It is lately, indeed since my vindication (or introduction rather to my vindication and review of our Naval affairs) was printed, been said—that the Secy of the Navy himself is my friend and has ever been my friend—that he has so declared himself to many Gentlemen and that he was but one of the Cabinet— Now if this Gentlemans declarations are founded in sincerity, as it is to be hoped they are—who is it, that is my enemy. The question is natural and the answer would be gratifying to me. If Mr Smith is not my enemy but my friend I must suppose he has laid before you my original letter to General Smith under date of the 25th December last which the General put in his possession—paragraphs of which he has read to Gentlemen not of the administration—as also my letters to him as Secy of the Navy under date of the 30th April 2d and 22d of may past—all of which I requested him to lay before you, but the two latter I have not been honored with any reply to and the former he was pleased to consider as a private letter (tho’ officially addressed) and of course waved the wished for information I desired. It cannot then be indiscreet in me under these circumstances and considering the importunities of many of our fellow Citizens as well in Virginia as elsewhere in the United States, and considering the wrongs I have felt, to exhibit the enclosed letter to the publick after giving a reasonable time to the Government to show me why I should not exhibit it, if such be its Opinion. From this delicacy under my feelings & Sufferings I trust you will appreciate my intentions, and beleive my declarations, that however plain my language, it is dictated by a pure heart and that nothing like disrespect is intended to You individually or to the Government, for that I am above offering under any circumstances whatever—tho’ a cry of hard usuage is in every direction heard and with it is combined other matters of publick concern that I cannot mention here. I have the honor to be Sir very Respectfully Your Most Obedient and very humble Servant. Thomas Truxtun P.S. I enclose two copies of the printed letter because I did not choose to send one even to Mr Smith untill I took the chance of hearing from Yourself. Nor in any event shall I forward one to that Gentleman. TT RC (DLC); at foot of text: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esquire Pres-
ident of the United States. &c &c &c”; endorsed by TJ as received 25 Aug. and
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20 AUGUST 1804 so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: probably a five-page printed letter by Truxtun addressed to his fellow citizens, Commodore Thomas Truxtun’s Vindication. Published by Desire of His Friends. 1804, in which he explains his reasons for resigning the command of the second squadron destined for the Mediterranean in 1802, his disagreement with Robert Smith (see below), and his assertion that TJ is ignorant of the country’s naval affairs (same).
Truxtun’s pain resulted from a dispute with Smith as to whether or not Truxtun had resigned his commission in the navy (Eugene S. Ferguson, Truxtun of the Constellation: The Life of Commodore Thomas Truxtun, U.S. Navy, 1755-1822 [Baltimore, 1956], 226-32; Vol. 37:160-1). general smith: Samuel Smith.
From Christophe Winckelblech Monsieur! Basle en suisse le 20e. Aoust 1804 Deux a trois Cent de mes malheureux compatriottes désirent de mettre a l’abry des révolutions futures le restant de leur avoir; & se proposent de passer au Printems prochain, dans les Etats Unis de L’Amérique, ou sous Vôtre protection ils puissent jouir Monsieur! des avantages d’un gouvernement doux, libre, juste, & fort— Ils désirent d’acheter de Vos terres, dans la Louisiane aux environs du Missisippi, ou de l’Ohio, & voudroient avoir le choix, d’un emplacement sain, fertile, & d’un débouché favorable— En s’adressant Monsieur! par ma voie au Gouvernement Americain directement, ils espérent de trouver a la source; les avantages que les particuliers revendeurs ne peuvent leur accorder— Comme ils sont tous Amis & les soutiens de la liberté, de bons agriculteurs des Artisans entendus, & de bonnes moeurs, nous tacherons Monsieur! de ne pas manquer de titres pour étre récomandables sous tous les rapports.— Un objet Monsieur! qui nous est de la plus grande importance, cest le passage de la mer, qui nous paroit trop couteux, sur tout pour les péres d’une famille nombreuse & honête, vû que les Capitaines de Navires Américain demandent pour le passage des Amsterdam à Philadelphie de 13 à 14 guinées par tête, tandis que l’on pouroit obtenir ce passage pour une société nombreuse, & protégée par Vôtre Gouvernement a beaucoup moins; les navires a Bordeaux come l’on m’assure prennent des passagers a 4 Louis. mais le voyage sur le Rhin jusq’ua Amsterdam est plus favorable, & moins couteux, que la traverse de l’Empire des francais. Au nom de mes Compatriottes qui ont des parents dispersés en Amérique, ma demande se borneroit Monsieur! a Vous prier de me faire la grace de me faire donner réponse aux articles suivants. 270
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1o. A quel prix Vôtre auguste Gouvernement nous vendrat il l’acre des bonnes terres a nôtre choix en traittant pr. environ 50,000. Acres, plus ou moins celon nos besoins? 2o. Vousdriés Vous bien condécendre, a nous faire embarquer a Amsterdam, ou quelqu’autre place ou nous pourons nous rend par le Rhin, a vos fraix, ou a bas prix sur un de vos Navires, la prémiére faveur, pouroit faciliter l’achat & le prompt payement de Centmille Acres, elle Vous procureroit des individus, forts; entendus, & laborieux, des hommes probes & industrieux, de bons enfants & des moeurs les plus simples, de vrais Suisses, qui j’ose le dire, dans tous les états font plaisir. 3o. Si nôtre Colonie en se fixant sur une même place pour former une ville, aura le droit des foires? 4o. Quels avantages particuliers Vous vousdrés bien nous accorder en qualité de nouveaux colons, bergers, laboureurs, artisans, & gens de génie? La promptitude Monsieur! avec la quelle le tems s’ecoule, & l’eloignement de vos heureuses contrées, me fait espérer Monsieur! que Vous voudrés bien faire accélerer la réponse que Vous daignerés de me faire donner. Jai l’honneur d’etre au nom de mes compatriottes, avec le Respect le plus profond, & dû a Vôtre rang Monsieur! Vôtre trés humble & trés Obeissant Serviteur Christophe Winckelblech agriculteur. e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Sir! Basel, Switzerland, 20 Aug. 1804 Two to three hundred of my unfortunate compatriots seek to preserve the remains of their fortunes from future revolutions. They wish to go to the United States of America next spring to enjoy the advantages of a benevolent, free, just, strong government under your protection. They seek to buy land in Louisiana, near the Mississippi or Ohio rivers, and would like to have a choice of healthy, fertile sites with convenient access. By addressing the American government directly, Sir, through me, they hope to obtain advantages that intermediaries could not offer them. Since they are all friends and defenders of liberty, good farmers, skilled craftsmen with respectable habits, we will try, Sir, to be commendable in all ways. One factor, Sir, that is very important to us is the ocean crossing, which seems too expensive, especially for hard-working heads of large and respected families. Captains of American ships charge 13 to 14 guineas per person for passage from Amsterdam to Philadelphia, while, with your government’s sponsorship, we could obtain the same passage at a group rate, much less expensively. Ships in Bordeaux, I am told, take passengers for 4 louis, but the
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20 AUGUST 1804 trip to Amsterdam via the Rhine is easier and less costly than crossing the French empire. In the name of my fellow citizens who have relatives scattered around America, Sir, I am summarizing my request in the following points, which I hope you will do me the favor to address: 1. For what price would your august government sell us land of our choice in parcels of approximately 50,000 acres, based on our needs? 2. Would you agree to provide transportation, at your expense or at low cost, on one of your ships, leaving from Amsterdam or some other place we could reach on the Rhine? The first option could facilitate the purchase and prompt payment of 100,000 acres. It would give you strong, skilled, hardworking people; honest, industrious men; good children; and simple habits. True Swiss are an asset everywhere, if I may say so. 3. If our colony settled in one place to found a city, would it be allowed to hold fairs? 4. What special advantages would you be willing to give us as new settlers, shepherds, workers, craftsmen, and engineers? The speed with which time passes, Sir, and our distance from your blessed country, makes me hope, Sir, that you will respond promptly. On behalf of my compatriots and with the profound respect your rank deserves, I have the honor, Sir, of being your very humble and obedient servant. Christophe Winckelblech farmer RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 2 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosed in Sylvanus Bourne to TJ, 31 Aug. Christophe Winckelblech (b. 1753) of Basel, Switzerland, was first secretary of the city’s general post office for 18 years and a member of the region’s arts and sciences society. In the summer of 1805, he and over a hundred other Swiss emigrants boarded the ship Liberty for Philadelphia. Winckelblech paid the fare of some passengers and worked as their agent, contracting out their services in Philadelphia. He listed himself as an optician in the city directory of 1806 and that year produced a ghost show, four nights a week, for the
public’s amusement. By 1807, Winckelblech had set up shop in Baltimore, offering art restoration services to “Connoissieurs Of Pictures, Engravings and Mechanic Art.” By 1819 he was back in Pennsylvania (Friedrich Rassman, Pantheon Deutscher Jetzt Lebender Dichter Und in Die Belletristik Eingreifender Schriftsteller; Begleitet Mit Kurzen Biographischen Notizen Und Der Wichtigsten Literatur [Duesseldorf, Ger., 1823], 366; Aurora, 29 Nov. 1805; The Philadelphia Directory for 1806 [Philadelphia, 1806]; Relfs Philadelphia Gazette, 29 Mch. 1806; Federal Gazette & Baltimore Daily Advertiser, 4 May 1807; rs, 14:325-6).
From John Barnes Sir George Town 21 Augst. 1804 I was Yesterday honored with your favr. 13th. and duly Notice the particulars: instead of something less than $406.63. (the presumed surplus, for this Mo. on statemt. 22d July.)—the annexed a/c will 272
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shew the present state of your Bank, including the $250. transmitted by this Evenings Mail to Messrs. G & J. at Richmond—Viz— for amo: of surplus the Presidts List 22d July 406.63. By JB’s paymt. to the 19 Inst. there remained in Bank. 253.67. differ. 152.96. Accounted for. from the following items. viz. 22d July. The President’s Bank. overdrawn 1.73 7 Augt. To G & J. 800. for 700. 100. LeMaire 300. for 250. 50. Hart. 30. for 25. 5. Dr. Baker. 406. for 400. 6. for Error in deducting from 3072.83 viz 406.63 say 2676.70 shd be 396.13 10.50 Aug 14th To Presidt. Order 2d. favr M Wanscher 14.50 15th To T. Carpenter for a Moiety of his a/c 150.46 Dyer & Smith & J Cox a/c $44.66 75.23. already charged the Prest: in July a/c 152.96. from this statemt. there remained in Bank 19th Inst. 253.67. 21 Augt. deduct Amt. transmitted Messrs. G & J 250. . leaves $3.67. Aug 21 for Amot. of Bank balance. brot. forwd. 3.67. Sepr. 4. for Compensation. Augt. a/c 2083.33. 6 for yr Note of the 4th to be disctd: 1000 989.50. 3072.83 from which deduct for Your Note payble: 2/5 Sepr. @ B US. 1000 do. do. 8/11 do. B of C. 1000 2000 . 1072.83. 1076.50. " wherewith to pay Mr Lenox 110. ⎧ Mr Short 500. ⎨ Sepr. a/c ⎩ Mr LeMaire 300. . 910. would leave $166. If than, in the interim, the President shd. be induced to protract either of the last three items for $910. in preference to any Other more Urgent demand (as I am inclined to think they are not immediately in real want) or if either of the two—for $110 & 300—should call on 273
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me, they shall be Accomodated. at all events, they will be comply’d wth. early in Oct—of this the President will be pleased to advise me— when the Bank a/c disctd. Notes & paymt. are perfectly adjusted, I purpose doing myself the Honor, Accepting your kind invitation—by way of Frederickg. via Orange Springs to Charloteville—is the rout I intended to prefer—(or rather to Milton) and to return by Richmond— as to leave Fredericksg either on Wednesday 12th—or Friday 14 Sepr. at farthest are the Days I count upon. with greatest Respect, I am Sir, your most & very Obedt. John Barnes. RC (ViU: Edgehill-Randolph Papers); addressed: “Th: Jefferson, President U States, at Monticello, Virginia”; endorsed by TJ as received 25 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. favr.: TJ’s letter of 13 Aug. has not been found (Appendix iv). See his letter of that day to George Jefferson. For a previous payment to Gibson & Jefferson (g & j), see TJ to Jefferson, 29 July. On 2 Aug., TJ issued an order on Barnes for payment of $14.50 to Martin wanscher (MS in CSmH; in TJ’s hand and signed by him; signed by Thomas Preston, acknowledging payment; endorsed by Barnes as paid 14 Aug.).
dyer & smith was the name of a Georgetown mercantile firm, and John Cox was also a Georgetown merchant (Washington Federalist, 10 June 1803; mb, 2:1159). note of the 4th to be disctd: in June, TJ had opened an account with the Washington branch of the Bank of the United States. Barnes’s accounting reflects TJ’s intensifying strategy of taking out loans from this bank and from the Bank of Columbia (b of c) to supplement his salary. In this case, TJ received $989.50 from each bank and was to repay $1,000, the difference being the discount, which was about a six percent annual interest rate (mb, 2:1128, 1138; Vol. 43:695-6).
From James Madison Dear Sir Aug. 21. 84. [i.e. 1804] I have duly recd. yours of the 18th. with the papers to which it refers. It was neither sealed, nor inclosed in the larger packet. The accounts from the Mediterranean, as you will find are on the whole favorable. The explanations of Lear, & the reinforcement under Baron, will probably overcome the repugnance of the Bey of Tunis to transact business with the Consul General, on account of his Consulship at Algiers. For I take it to be that circumstance and not any personal preference for Davis that made the difficulty. I am glad to find nothing repeated as to the present of a frigate, or the exaction of a tribute similar to that stipulated to Algiers. An exemplification of the ratifying Act of Tennessee had arrived at the Office of State. But unfortunately none has yet been forwarded by Georgia; unless it should be among your papers which is not proba 274
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ble. I have written to Govr Milledge reminding him of the Omission; and lest he should not be at or near Savanna, have sent a duplicate to be forwarded from Washington, where his residence may probably be ascertained. respectfully and truly yours James Madison RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department at Orange on 21 Aug. and “Mediterrn.—ratifn Georgia” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures were probably: (1) George Davis to Madison, Tunis, 8 Apr.; Davis met with Edward Preble on board the Constitution on the evening of 4 Apr. to discuss the state of U.S. relations with Tunis; two days later, Davis met with Hammuda, the bey, who wants restitution for “Tunisian property, captured and sold, by Commodore Morris” (see TJ to Madison, 23 Aug.); Davis explained that Preble has no authority to resolve that issue, but the “proper character,” Consul General Tobias Lear, will arrive soon and settle matters to the bey’s satisfaction; although angry with “so unjust a procrastination,” Hammuda nevertheless allowed a delay of six weeks; he refuses, however, to rec-
ognize the authority of Lear, the “Consul at Algiers,” to transact public affairs with him (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:20-2). (2) Stephen Cathalan, Jr., to Madison, Marseilles, 24 May, enclosing recent communications received from Bonaventure Beaussier, William Bainbridge, Robert R. Livingston, and James Leander Cathcart regarding the Philadelphia prisoners and the war against Tripoli; Cathcart has obtained the loan of four “Bombardes” and four gunboats from Naples to assist Preble against Tripoli; the French government will intervene with the bey of Tripoli, Yusuf Qaramanli, on behalf of the United States; a gale has delayed Preble’s commencement of negotiations; Yusuf has reduced his demanded ransom for the American prisoners to $500,000 (same, 248-50).
From Hezekiah Rogers Sir, Philadelphia 21. August 1804. I have the honor to inform you that this day Capt. Chouteau with the Chiefs of the Osage nation of Indians took their departure from this city for Pittsburgh, on their way to their own country. We proceeded on our tour as far North as the city of New York, where we continued eight days. During our journey the party enjoyed perfect health, and no untoward circumstance occurred to mar the pleasure of the natives, or to frustrate the object contemplated by government. The principal villages and cities through which we passed, and individual citizens vied with each other in acts of hospitality and kindness and I am persuaded the impressions which have been made on the minds of the Indians are most favorable to the views and wishes of the Executive. In executing the trust committed to me I have assiduously endeavored to effect the object intended, with as much frugality in my 275
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expenditures, as circumstances and the nature of that object would permit; and if, Sir, my well-intentioned exertions shall meet your approbation it will amply compensate me for the trouble and fatigue which I have experienced. Tomorrow I purpose leaving this city for Washington. I am, Sir, with very sincere Respect, Yr: obt: Servant Hez: Rogers. RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Collection); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 28 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. Hezekiah Rogers (1753-1810) of Norwalk, Connecticut, was an aide-de-camp during the Revolutionary War and a delegate to the 1788 Connecticut ratifying convention. From 1789 until his resignation in 1793, he served as surveyor of the port of New Haven. Sometime before the federal government’s removal to Washington, Rogers took a post in the comptroller’s office of the Treasury Department. In 1801, he transferred to the War Department. He also served as the city’s military storekeeper throughout his time in Washington and was a member of the United States Military Philosophical Society (Linda Grant De Pauw and others, eds., Documentary History of the First Federal Congress, 22 vols. [Baltimore, 1972-2017], 2:487; jep, 1:10, 129; Merrill Jensen, John P. Kaminski, Gaspare J. Saladino, and others, eds., Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, 28 vols. to date [Madison, Wis., 1976-], 3:437, 561; rchs, 9 [1906], 2289; Heitman, Register, 349; rs, 3:63; Vol. 35:703, 706n; Rogers to TJ, 21 Nov. 1808). During their visit to new york, the Osage delegation attended some demonstrations of the local militia, met with representatives of a missionary society who
presented them with a Bible, and became star attractions at a pleasure garden in the city, where on the evening of 13 Aug. the Osages performed a war dance for “an immense concourse of people” and witnessed a fireworks display. One account of the event noted the “king’s deportment” as “majestic and easy” and described how White Hair “manifested a mark of civilization which we scarcely expected” in doffing his cap and bowing to the spectators. The reporter emphasized, however, “it was the singular and savage appearance of the other Indians naked and painted patria more, that excited principal attention.” Starting slow to the beat of a drum, the Osage dance culminated in what the reporter termed a “frantic” scene replete with “wild and frightful gestures.” The event fostered a “general impression” of “pity for our fellow creatures,” who seemed “strangers to those principles and sentiments which ennoble our nature and elevate us to a near relation with the Supreme Being” (New York Daily Advertiser, 10 and 15 Aug.; NewYork Commercial Advertiser, 15 Aug.). Rogers reported expenditures of about $5,200 for hosting the Osage delegation (Letter from the Treasurer of the United States, Accompanying His General Accounts of Receipts and Expenditures; As Also, His Accounts for the War and Navy Departments, from the 1st October, 1803, to the 30th September, 1804, Inclusive [Washington, D.C., 1805], 167-8).
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From John Marrast Monsieur Norfolk Ce 22d aoust 1804. Jay l’honneur de vous avizer que Jay chargé sur le Battau Maria, capne. Françis o’mara, deux caisses contenant bougie verte, cy Joingt connoissement, et facteure de l’autre Part, Je me flatte davançe que vous serais satisfait de sa qualité, Jay l’honneur detre avec le plus Profond Réspect Monsieur Votre trés humble & trés ôbst. serviteur John Marrast Facteure de trois caisses bougie, dont une de cire blanche, & les deux autres de la verte. 1. caisse bougie blanche ps net 42d á 75 cts $31.50 2. idem verte 110d à 42 cts 46.20. Pour 3 caisses. port au batteau & Ct 1.50. $79.20 Je sertifie le presant sincere sauf herreur, norfolk ce 22d aoust 1804 John Marrast e d i t o r s’
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Sir, Norfolk, 22 Aug. 1804 I have the honor of informing you that I loaded two cases of green candles on the ship Maria, captained by Francis O. Meara. Attached is the invoice with the bill for the other part of the order. I am confident you will find the quality satisfactory. With profound respect, Sir, I have the honor of being your very humble and obedient servant. John Marrast Invoice for three cases of candles: one white and two green. 1. One case of white candles net weight 42d @ 75 cts $31.50 2. Green candles 110d @ 42 cts 46.20. Loading three cases port to ship etc. 1.50. $79.20 I certify that this is accurate, barring error. Norfolk, 22 Aug. 1804. John Marrast RC (MHi); in MS first signature is “Jhon Marrast”; at foot of first page: “Ths. Jefferson Esqre. Washington City”; endorsed by TJ as received 28 Aug. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: probably bill of lading dated 18 Aug. for two boxes
of “Mertal Wax Candles” by the sloop Maria, Francis O. Meara, master, on behalf of Marrast, bound for “Thomas Jefferson Esqr” in Washington (MS in same; printed form, with blanks filled, signed by Meara).
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From Henry Dearborn Sir Gardiner District of Maine August 23d. 1804 I was this morning honoured with your letter of the 3d. Inst. enclosing a letter from Mr. Boudinot &c,—without having recourse to the files in the office I cannot state the amount of the aid we agreed to afford Mr. Blackburn in the establishment of a School in the Cherokee Nation, or the annual advances which were then contemplated, but I well remember that he appeared to be satisfied at the time. I am however of opinion, that if his school shall appear to be judiciously mannaged, it would be adviseable to afford it such additional aid as the state of the funds & the claims of other Nations will admit of, but I should presume that whatever sums may be advanced for that, or simmilar objects ought to pass through the hands of our respective Agents—and be applied under their directives from time to time as may be found usefull.—no arrangement on the subject can with propriety be undertaken relative to such objects but at the Seat of Government, where the state of the funds and other necessary information can be obtained. I should suppose that no great inconvenience would result from a delay of two months. I am Sir with the most respectfull considerations, Yours, H. Dearborn Sir P.S. since writing the foregoing letter, I have been honoured with your letter of the 8th. inst. enclosing letters on the subject of an appointment of a successor to Genl. Irvine;—after the death of Genl Irvine many applications were made to me for the appointment, I consulted Mr. Gallatin on the subject, and we concluded it would be adviseable to postpone the appointment until we should meet you at Washington, and he agreed to write to you on the subject.—should you be of opinnion that an earlier appointment will be expedient, Mr. Gallatin will probably be able to give the most satisfactory information relative to the respective applicants.— Yours, H. Dearborn RC (DLC); above postscript: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the War Department on 8 Sep. and “Blackburn’s Indn. school. Irvine” and so recorded in SJL, but as a letter of 27 Aug.
The earlier aid given to Gideon Blackburn passed through the hands of Return Jonathan Meigs, agent for the Cherokee nation (Vol. 40:495n).
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From Henry Dearborn Sir, Gardiner August 23d, 1804 Please to accept my thanks for the profile you were good enough to enclose, it strikes me as the only good likeness, (except Stuarts,) I have ever seen of the original, which very much enhances its value. Mrs. Dearborn & myself are in good health. It appears to be the prevailing opinnion among the republicans in this quarter, as well as in old Massachusetts & New Hampshire, that there is at least an eaqual chance in favour of the republican ticket, for Electors, great exactions will be made on both sides, but the opposition are undoubtedly loosing ground, and their ultimate fall is certain & inevitable. I had this morning the pleasure of receiving a letter from Tennessee, in which is stated the adoption of the amendment of the Constitution relative to the Election of President & Vice P.—by the unanimous voice of the Legislature of that State. with the highest esteem I am Sir Yours, H. Dearborn RC (DLC); at head of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Sep. and “news of the place.” profile: probably one of the likenesses TJ purchased recently from New Haven
artist Amos B. Doolittle (Vol. 42:xlv-xlvi, 629, 630). stuarts: for Gilbert Stuart’s 1800 life portrait of TJ, which he never received and which survives only through engravings, see Vol. 31:xliv-xlv, 587n.
To Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Monticello. Aug. 23. 04. Your’s of the 16th. was recieved on the 21st. Dickerson’s delay of proceeding to N. Orleans will give us time. if Pinkney accepts the office of judge Robert Williams might be the Attorney; if Pinkney does not accept, or does not arrive in time (and a few days only must now decide the latter point) Williams must be the judge. Hall accepts as district judge. with respect to Neufville I am not satisfied with Freneau’s recommendation, & especially as he sais nothing of his politics. his situation would naturally bias a man of feeling to speak favorably of him. I have therefore written to mr Wagner for a blank commission which I will inclose blank to Freneau, desiring him to fill it up for Doyley if he will accept of it; if not, then with whatever name he thinks best, having regard to moral & political character, and standing in society. I have no fear to trust to his fidelity & 279
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secrecy. I shall immediately direct a commission for mr Travis: and shall forward to mr Nicholas the new recommendations for Hampton, for his advice. Accept affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson RC (NHi: Gallatin Papers); addressed: “Albert Gallatin Secretary of the Treasury New York”; franked; endorsed. Notation in SJL: “Dickerson. Pinckney. Williams. Hall. Neufville Travis. Doyley.” PoC (DLC).
shall forward to mr nicholas: TJ wrote to Wilson Cary Nicholas on 23 Aug., but the letter has not been found (see Appendix iv).
From Abraham Husted, Jr. Sir Richmond 23th August 1804 I wish to inform you that there is a plan in my oppinion will answer America a good purpus & save them the trouble of building a fleet manning &c. by preparing a moshine to go under water & blow thim up that dare cum near our coast I gave a french gentleman a hint of the out lines of the plan from wich he told me he wood insure me a free passage to france and back to amirica a gain should I wish to cum & give me one hundred thousand crowns to reveal the plan to the presadent of france & provided I would consint to stay in france & the plan should answer they would give me one million Sterling worth of propirty, but I have my Cuntrys good to much at hart to reveal sutch a thing to any other Nation or to any induvidual by which means they might obtain it—now I wish to know when and where we can bee to gether a Sufficient time for you to recieve the information & examin the plan to your Satisfaction. Should it answer it must be a Saving to the States of an unknown Sum—if it should be your wish to examin into my plan please to rite me a line to inform me when and where it would be most agreable to you & I will endeaver to wait upon you for that purpose at the time & place appointed. I am with Respects your Sinceer friend to Serve Abraham Husted Junr. RC (DLC); addressed: “To the Presadent of the U. Stats Thomas Jefferson at his Seat” with “near Milton” added in another hand; franked; postmarked 28 Aug.; endorsed by TJ as received 1 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. In 1804, Abraham Husted, Jr., offered his services in Richmond as a dentist and
as a source of information on how to remove the Hessian fly. In addition to his letter to TJ on underwater mines, Husted petitioned Congress in 1807 to provide support for his experiments (Richmond Virginia Argus, 4 Jan.; Hudson, N.Y., Balance, and Columbian Repository, 7 Aug.; Husted to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, 24 Feb. 1807, in DNA: RG 233, PMRDT, 9th Cong., 2d sess.).
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To James Madison Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 23. 04. Yours of the 18th. & 21st. are recieved, and I now return the papers of Davis, Cathalan, Mansfield, Fitzsimmons, Claiborne, Pichon, Rufini, Wiggenton, Wilson, Lamson, Ridgway, Irving, Barney, & Joy. the situation of the indemnification for the Tunisian property taken by Morris has escaped my present recollection. I take for granted we have been guilty of no unnecessary delay; as were we to go to war with the Bey1 tomorrow, I would previously do every act of justice due to him. I think the offence he presumes to take at our Commodore not going ashore should be the subject of information to him from Davis that after his injurious detention of Morris he must expect that mark of respect from no officer of the US. until he shall give proper assurance that he will be safe from restraint & injury.—Should we not give peremptory orders for the winding up the affairs of Spain at N. Orleans, & the departure of Casa-Calvo & Morales, or at least the latter? they should be gone before the 1st. of October. Wigginton’s observations as to the description of the person of the holder of a certificate of citizenship are just; & it merits reformation. a particular clerk might be charged with making out the description. the appeal made by Barney to the executive is improper, the Convention having established a different course.—I never recieved the ratification of Georgia.—some other matters in the inclosed papers will be properly subjects for conversation, & the moment I have every thing ready for the arrangements of the government of Orleans (which this day’s or Saturday’s posts will determine) you shall see me at your house: for when I proposed the accomodating your visit to this object, I had forgotten that it was a part of mrs Madison’s plan that her visit and mrs Pichon’s should be made together. with this arrangement I did not intend nor now wish to interfere. I salute you both with affection & respect. Th: Jefferson P.S. I desire mr Wagner to send you a blank commission for a Commr. of loans in S.C. ready sealed. will you on reciept of it be so good as to sign & forward it to me? as I must send it on blank, & the case is urgent. RC (DLC: Madison Papers); at foot of text: “The Secretary of State.” PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “Tunis. Casa Calvo. passports. Barney. Georgia.” Enclosures: see Madison to TJ, 14, 18, 21
Aug.; Ruffini and George W. Erving enclosures not identified. tunisian property taken by mor ris: for the controversial capture of the
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23 AUGUST 1804 polacre Paolina by the U.S. schooner Enterprize in January 1803, see Vol. 40:576; Vol. 42:389, 392n. Hammuda had briefly detained Richard Valentine Morris at Tunis in March 1803 for payment of debts owed by William Eaton (ndbw, 2:368, 369-70, 383-4, 393; Vol. 42:389).
you shall see me: TJ traveled to Montpelier on 29 Aug., returning to Monticello on the 31st (mb, 2:1135). 1 Preceding
three words interlined.
From Charles Pougens Paris, Quai Voltaire, No. 10.
Monsieur ce 5 fructidor an 12 23 aoust 1804 (V. style.) Mon Catalogue Vient d’etre imprimé Ce jour Meme. Je saisis la plus prochaine occasion pour Vous en expedier un Exemplaire. Je serois bien faché de l’envoyer a qui que ce soit en Amerique, avant de l’avoir mis sous Vos yeux. J’ai l’honneur, Monsieur, de Vous saluer avec le Respect qui vous est du par Tous Ceux qui cherissent la gloire & la Vertu. Pougens e d i t o r s’
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Paris, 10 Quai Voltaire Sir, 5 Fructidor, Year 12, 23 Aug. 1804 (old style) My catalogue was just printed today. I will take the first opportunity to send you a copy. I would be upset to send it to anyone else in America before having placed it in front of your eyes. I have the honor of greeting you, Sir, with the respect you deserve from all who cherish honor and virtue. Pougens RC (DLC); on printed letterhead, with blanks filled by Pougens; at head of text: “Charles Pougens, Membre de l’Institut National de France, Correspondant de L’Académie Impériale des Sciences de S. Pétersbourg, de la Société royale de Gottingue, etc., etc., à Mr. Jefferson”; en-
dorsed by TJ as received 1 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. mon catalogue: Pougens published his Extrait du catalogue des livres de fonds et d’assortiment de Ch. Pougens in Paris in 1804.
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Petition of Puckshunubbee and Homastubbee To the President of the United States. The Petition of the Chactaws by the undersigned Mingoes in behalf of the whole Nation Humbly Sheweth.— That Whereas our whole Nation is embarrassed by heavy debts to the House of Panton Leslie & Co, and we finding ourselves unable to discharge the same without disposing of Land for that purpose and knowing that we cannot make any Sale to private Individuals. We Humbly pray Our Father to accept of Land bounded on the Mississippi West, and between the Yazoo & the Chickesaw Country, extending Eastward so as to include the Lands between the Yazoo & Big Black, or so much of the same as Our Father the President by his Commissioners may deem sufficient to pay the same. And to prevent any mistake hereafter or remove any doubt respecting the amount of our debt, we only request to have paid for us, the amount thereof exhibited by the said House (of Panton, Leslie & Co) to Silas Dinsmoor, our Father’s beloved man in our Nation, the last To fa, or Summer, as every other claim against Our Nation, by other Merchants & Traders has been cancelled, and we further pray Our Father, that our Petition may be taken into his immediate consideration and the prayer thereof Granted, and your Petitioners will ever pray Given under our hands this twenty third day of August 1804 at Hobukintoopa Puckshunnubbee X His mark Mingo Hoomastubbee X His mark Test Silas Dinsmoor Agent to the Chactaws Ephm Kirby Judge of the Mississippi Territory Tr (DNA: RG 11, Ratified Indian Treaties). Tr (DNA: RG 75, Ratified Treaties). The War Department received this petition in October, along with some other materials from Silas Dinsmoor, U.S. agent to the Choctaws. Dearborn subsequently shared the petition, or at least conveyed its contents, to the president. The proposal was essentially identical to the one Dearborn outlined in a letter to Dinsmoor following the visit of Puckshunubbee and Homastubbee to Washington in
December 1803 (DNA: RG 107, RLRMS; Vol. 42:130n; Memorandum for Henry Dearborn on Indian Policy, 20 Oct.). amount of our debt: the administration later reported that the Choctaws owed $46,091.02 to Panton, Leslie & Co. (asp, Indian Affairs, 1:700). last to fa: toffa is the Choctaw word for summer (Cyrus Byington, A Dictionary of the Choctaw Language, Smithsonian Institution Bureau of American Ethnology Bulletin 46, John R. Swanton and Henry S. Halbert, eds. [Washington, D.C., 1915], 353).
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To Jacob Wagner Monticello Aug. 23. 04.
Th: Jefferson asks the favor of mr Wagner to send ready sealed to the Secretary of State A commission for Samuel Travis to be first mate of a revenue cutter in Virginia, (I know not whether the place is usually specified in the commission) And a blank commission, ready sealed, for a Commissioner of loans in S. Carolina vice Neufville deceased. PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “Travis & Neufville’s commns.”
From Thomas W. Waters Sir/ Upper Louisiania. Cape Girardeau Aug 23: 1804 I take the liberty of Giving You information Concerning upper Louisiana not supposing it necessary to make any preface I shall begin By Informing you of the proceedings of this Country since the Americans have taken possession of this Country—Soon after Congress— passed a Law for the temporary Government of this Country the people about St. Louis formed themselves into Committees Chosen by the people in order to Correspond with the other parts of Louisiania they have accordingly wrote Circular Letters to the Whole of the other districts who have adopted their measures—which was to send a proper representation of Each district Consisting of one or more deputies in order to meet the Governor and to request certain things of him & also to Confer together on a proper representation concerning the law for Governing them pass’d last session— This Country is by no means satisfy’d with some parts of that Law. they have drawn up a Petition of it wherein they state that the great distance between St. Vincenns & any part of this country & that too thro a Prirara country almost impassable in the winter & in a manner uninhabited, will make a Communication almost impracticable and wish they could have a Governor and proper officers to reside amongst them—they consider that part of the Law of Congress that makes provisions for a treaty to be held, with the Indians on the East side of the Massisippia for an Exchange of Lands on the West to be dangerous to them in their present Weak State their Scattered situation up & down the Massippia & the great distance between their in & out settlements makes it hard to embody & join in their common defence— they did hope that Congress would have passed a Law for the strenth 284
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ing this country by setlement Sales or otherwise & put them in a situation to have defended themselves agst. those Indians already on their frontiers who have been robing & plundering them with impunity this many Years—instead of which they see a law pass’d to set other tribes of Savages on their frontiers—the people here that were not Concerned in the Speculation of lands are much pleased that congress has overthrown all those Large Grants they however regret that Congress have made no provision for those that would have been entitled to lands under the Spanish Government for the Comandants in many & very many instances have refused permission for to settle to some who they did not chuze to oblige, & these relying on a Change of officers, have got no lands altho entitled there to. Will lose their head right unless Congress pass some law for their releif—I will observe one thing to You Sir that many people here do not like the Change & every Law that is pass’d that puts them on a Worse Situation than they would have been under the Spaniards is Criticise’d & the Worst Construction put on & those that are fond of the Change feel much Diappointd at the Law that Congress have pass’d for the Government of this Country. Any thing like a Representative Government would please them much for the privilege of Chosing a Comittee has animated them Greatly as it is a privilege they never could have had under the Spanish Government—I am Certain If Congress pass a law Granting the request of this people If it, should not, be altogether According to the plan first—laid down for disposing of this Country & Governing thereof It would be an anvantage to America. Generally for in My Opinion to gain over the people to be fond of the American Laws & Customs Will be gaining a Great point & I know of only One Means & that is by Suffering Emigration to this Country & these Emigrants would Come With this favourable disposition in them—& those few that have come here lately have already began to work that Effect for I have not been here but Six Months & my neighbours do already begin to be Americans—In Appointing a Commandant here, You will be much for or agt. Yr. Plan If you appoint the old ones If you can find an honest Among them you will appoint them that If they do not, oppose you will never serve you as they to a man deprecate the American Government I should Suppose that Governor Harris could Easier find out those that would do Justice to their Appointment—I am Sir one of those that offer—My Situation in life makes an office for my support by no means Necessary I offer only because no One here is fit to fill the office. & I have fill’d a higher Milatary office than Any Man here Except One Man Who is upwards of Sixty Years old—& I also hope that My Character as an American 285
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& as a Gentleman will give me a preferance to Any that May offer agt. me. I am Sir With the highest Esteem Yr. Humble Servt— Thos. W Waters RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and “to be a Commandt. of Louisiana” and so recorded in SJL. Thomas W. Waters emigrated to the Cape Girardeau area from South Carolina, where he had likely served as an officer in the state militia during the American Revolution and may have been the individual of that name tapped to supervise elections in Newberry County in 1802. With a partner, he established a trading post and operated a ferry across the Mississippi River (Charleston City-Gazette and Daily Advertiser, 9 July 1802; Louis Houck, A History of Missouri from the Earliest Explorations and Settlements until
the Admission of the State into the Union, 3 vols. [Chicago, 1908], 2:386-7n; 3:84n; Robert Sidney Douglass, History of Southeast Missouri: A Narrative Account of Its Historical Progress, Its People and Its Principal Interests, 2 vols. [Chicago and New York, 1912], 1:179). The circular letters, drafted by leading citizens of St. Louis on 28 July and sent to other districts in upper Louisiana, advised that 17 representatives, freely chosen by “the greatest number of the citizens of the different districts” and allocated according to recent census data, should meet in St. Louis before the expected arrival of William Henry Harrison in October (Terr. Papers, 13:33-8).
From Jean Decout Monsieur De Beaufort n.c le 24 août 1804 la renommée qui a si bien sù faire connaître ches toutes les nations civilisée, vos vertus civiles et morales; m’autorise aujourd’huy a mettre sous vos yeux le récit particulier de mes malheurs, persuadé que le fil qui les a conduit ne peut étre indiferent a un homme d’etat, qui comme vous, développe tant de Sagesse et de Sagacité, dans l’art difficile de gouverner. ce seroit pour moi, sans doutte, une grande consolation, si mes malheurs particuliers, dont il y a peu d’exémples dans les fastes des miséres humaines, pouvoient encore dévenir utile a mes semblabes. il n’y a pas encore deux mois, qu’entourré de ma famille, je jouïssois du bonheur et de la fortune; j’etois útile aux malheureux, et je goûtois souvent le doux plaisir de faire du bien: il en est autrement aujourd’huy; échapé comme par miracle au massacre général des blancs a st. domingue, je m’embarque sur le brix l’oxfort de baltimore avec les débris de ma fortune; ce bâtiment est venu se briser sur une des isle turques nommée long-isle; avec luy ce sont en sevelis mes moyens et mes ésperences. j’eté ensuite, sur une côte isolée (beaufort c.n.) sans amis, sans connoissences, séparé de ma femme et mes enfans, et sans moyens pour sortir d’un lieu qui n’offre nulle ressource, accablé par mes chagrins et le poids de mes années; votre nom s’est 286
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présenté a mon imagination égarée, et avec luy un certain éspoir de pouvoir un jour me reünir a ma famille et étre encore útile aux hommes par ma grande pratique dans la médecine, et je puis dire, mes succés, sur tout dans les fiévres jaunes. Premier médecin de l’armée française dans le departement du sud de st. domingue, je me suis vû sur les bras 300 soldats atteints de ces fiévres; j’en perdit 20 et les 280 autres furent sauvés, en suivant une nouvelle méthode indiquée par le docteur Brown (écossois) ce médecin vien de rendre un grand service a l’humanité en simplifiant l’art de guérir; il a pôsé des bâses, et développé des principes que l’experience confirme chaque jour, Et que de vains sistêmes scolastiques ne détruirons jamais: si ces malheureuses fiévres jaunes, affligent encore quelques endroits des états únis, et que vous daignés mettre mon éxpérience en úsage; il me seroit bien agréable d’etre utile a un païs si interessant et surtout a un peuple, qui par la sagesse de son gouvernement doit nécessairement devenir l’exemple des autres états. ne pouvant détailler dans une lettre les súites de mes malheurs, j’ai crû devoir mettre sous vos yeux, une légére ésquise sur les derniers événemens qui viénnent d’accabler les trop malheureux habitans de st. domingue; ce n’est qu’un apperçu succinct qui ne peut que vous donner le fil de tant de malheurs sans en développer les effets ni les circonstances: ce travail seroit long, mais si vous le désiriés, je vous en fais l’offre. il me reste, monsieur, a vous prier de ne pas faire insérer ce petit écrit dans les papier publics; il contient des vérités qui ne plairoient pas a tout le monde, et dans l’etat ou je suis je n’ai pas besoin de me faire d’ennemis. je vous prie de m’excuser sur le mauvais papier dont je fais úsage pour vous écrire je sens combien il est peu digne de vous, mais il ma été impossible de m’en procurer d’autre icy. permettés que je finisse cette longue lettre par vous assurer du respect et de la profonde vénération, avec laqu’elle j’ai l’honneur de me dire, Monsieur Votre tres humble Et obeïssant serviteur Decout D.M. e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Sir, Beaufort, N.C., 24 Aug. 1804 The acclaim of your civic and moral virtues in all civilized nations prompts me to place before you today this account of my misfortunes. I am convinced that the way they occurred cannot be a matter of indifference to a statesman like you who has acquired so much wisdom and judgment in the difficult art of governing. It would certainly be a great consolation to me if my individual
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24 AUGUST 1804 misfortunes, of which there are few examples in the abundance of human misery, could be useful to my fellow men. Less than two months ago, I was happy and prosperous, surrounded by my family. I was helpful to patients who were suffering and I often tasted the sweet pleasure of doing good. Everything is different now. I escaped, miraculously, from the general massacre of whites on Saint-Domingue. I set off on the brig Oxford of Baltimore with the remains of my fortune. The ship went aground on the one of the Turks Islands called Long Island. My hopes and resources are buried with the ship. Then cast away on an isolated coast (Beaufort, North Carolina) with no friends or acquaintances, separated from my wife and children, and without the means of leaving a place that has no resources of its own, I am overwhelmed by grief and the weight of age. Your name came to my wandering mind, and with it, some hope of being reunited with my family one day and being useful again to others through my long practice of medicine and especially my success, if I may say, in treating yellow fever. As the head doctor of the French army in the southern department of SaintDomingue, I found myself with 300 soldiers suffering from yellow fever. I lost 20. The other 280 were saved by implementing a new treatment, taught by Dr. Brown (a Scot). This doctor has just rendered a great service to humanity by simplifying the art of healing. He has laid the foundation and developed the principles that are being confirmed in practice every day and that useless scholastic systems will never destroy. If yellow fever still afflicts some areas of the United States and you wish to take advantage of my experience, I would be pleased to be useful to such a fascinating country and, especially, to a people who, by the wisdom of their government, must necessarily become an example to others. Unable to describe fully in a letter the consequences of my misfortunes, I felt impelled to send you a brief summary of the recent events that have overwhelmed the unfortunate inhabitants of Saint-Domingue. This short overview gives only the outline of so many misfortunes, without detailing either the circumstances or effects. Such an account would be long, but I would be willing to provide it if you wish. In closing, Sir, I ask you not to include this short text among your public papers. It contains truths that will not please everyone, and in my current state, I do not need to make enemies. I beg you to excuse the poor quality paper on which I am writing. I realize it is unworthy of you, but am unable to procure any other here. Allow me to end this long letter by assuring you, Sir, of the respect and deep admiration with which I have the honor of calling myself your humble and obedient servant. Decout M.D. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 8 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: “Mémoire sur les principaux évenemens arrivés dans le departement du sud de lisle de st. domingue depuis l’arrivée de l’armée française en 1801 jusqu’au mois de juin 1804,” which details the recent history of the Haitian Revolution in the southern province, including Jean
Jacques Dessalines’s reign of terror while serving under Toussaint-Louverture, divisions among the island’s white settlers on whether to reimpose slavery through violence or to adopt a more cautious approach, the thriving of agriculture during Toussaint’s government, the attempt by French forces to reestablish slavery in 1802 and 1803, General Charles François
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24 AUGUST 1804 Desbureux’s philanthropic policies in the southern department, Dessalines’s decision to order the execution of all the island’s whites, and the culpability of the British Royal Navy in allowing the massacres to proceed (MS in DLC: TJ Papers, 141:24539-44; in French; in Decout’s hand). Jean Decout was a surgeon, an associate of the Academy of Arts and Sciences of Cap-Français, and the chief of the hospital department in the southern department of Saint-Domingue. He was forced to flee the island after Dessalines ordered the massacre of the island’s white inhabitants. During the early phases of the revolution, Decout was politically active on behalf of the faction led by André Rigaud in Cayes, and with his permission published a general survey of the diseases that affected Saint-Domingue. After arriving in the United States, Decout was
able to rejoin his family in Baltimore. Decout would later write to TJ from Fells Point, Maryland, on the causes of yellow fever in that district (Jean Decout, Apperçu sur les maladies de Saint-Domingue, avec les remedes qu’il faut y appliquer [Aux Cayes, 1797]; Quelques éclaircissemens sur les troubles survenus dans le Département du Sud de Saint Domingue [Hamburg, 1797], 3, 18, 33, 51; Jacques de Cauna, L’Eldorado des Aquitains: Gascons, Basques et Béarnais aux Iles d’Amérique (XVIIXVIII siècles) [La Rochelle, 1998], 332; New York American Citizen, 20 July; Decout to TJ, 1 Feb. 1805). séparé de ma femme et mes en fans: Decout’s family were among a group of refugees from Cayes who arrived in Baltimore in July (New York American Citizen, 20 July). For the Scottish physician John brown, see Vol. 31:129n.
To Napoleon, Emperor of the French I have made choice of John Armstrong, one of our distinguished Citizens to reside near your 1 in the quality of Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America. He is well apprized of the Friendship which we bear to 2 and of our desire to cultivate the harmony & good correspondence so happily subsisting between us. From a knowledge of his fidelity, probity and good conduct, I have entire confidence that he will render himself acceptable to you, and give effect to our desire of preserving and advancing on all occasions the interest and happiness of the two Nations. I beseech 3 to give full credence to whatever he shall say on the part of the United States, and most of all when he shall assure you of their friendship and wishes for the prosperity of 4 And I pray God to have5 Written at the City of Washington, the twenty fourth day of August in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and four. Th: Jefferson FC (Lb in DNA: RG 59, Credences); in a clerk’s hand; at head of text: “Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States of America”; below signature: “By the President” and “James Madison Secretary of State.” FC (Lb in Rokeby Collection,
Barrytown, Dutchess County, New York, courtesy of John Winthrop Aldrich); at head of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States of America to His Imperial Majesty Napoleon Emperor of the French.” Not recorded in SJL.
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24 AUGUST 1804 A new commission for john arm strong, also dated 24 Aug., left a blank for the name of the country in which he would represent the United States as minister plenipotentiary (FC in Lb in DNA: RG 59, Credences). Madison explained to Armstrong in a letter of 21 Aug.: “No regular notification has yet been received of the change which it seems certain has taken place in the French Government, nor are the new stile and title precisely known, by which it is to be addressed. All that can be done therefore in accommodation to the change, and with a view to obviate delays in your reception and your public functions at Paris, is to furnish you with a blank letter of credence and Commission, to be filled up there. On this the President has decided; and the documents in that state are accordingly herewith in-
closed. He thinks it most proper that they should be communicated as you receive them to the Minister of foreign relations and filled up as he may state to be necessary or proper. This will not only guard against the possibility of error, but will be the strongest proof of the respect intertained here for the right of every nation to establish for itself what form of Government it pleases” (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:624-5). 1
FC in Rokeby Collection: “Majesty.” FC in Rokeby Collection: “your Majesty.” 3 FC in Rokeby Collection: “your Majesty.” 4 FC in Rokeby Collection: “your Imperial Majesty.” 5 Both FCs end the paragraph here. 2
From Richard Richardson Dr sir New york august 24th 1804 I Receved yours of August the 15 which gave Me some Information Respecting new orleans for which I am grately oblige to you for and More so for your good opinion Respecting It I Shall leave this for philadelphia on the 27th of the prasant Instant with Colonal Tharp who Is from Jamaica a neighbour of Mine In that Contrey this gentalman Shiped twentey five hundred hogsheads of Shugar this year he percessing the same oppinion as Myself Respecting Jamaica wishes to purchase near new orleans 25 thousand acers of good Shugar lands our Rout will Be from philadelphia to fort pit By land and their to goe Down the River the Information we have acquired Is from a Book wrote By volaney his Travils published In philadelphia By Mr, Dobson the Information Respecting your house and Its progress are highly pleasing to Me I wish you had Some of the Mehogganey that lays waisting with us for the Inside of your house I am Extreamly Sorry to hear of the death of Mistress Epps which I were not Informed of when I wrote I hope Mr and Mistress Randal and their familey are all well you will Be good Enough To Mention Me to them likewise Mr. Dinsmore And Remaining with Everey Sentiments of a Steem Your Most obedint Servent Richard Richardson Post, please let Me hear from you when at new orleans 290
25 AUGUST 1804 RC (MHi); at foot of text: “Th Jefferson Esqr”; endorsed by TJ as received 1 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. colonal tharp: William Blake Tharp, a son of the prominent Jamaican planter John Tharp, was the lieutenant colonel of the St. James’s regiment of militia (The Scots Magazine, and Edinburgh Literary Miscellany: Being a General Repository of Literature, History, and Politics, for 1809 [Edinburgh, 1809], 639; Sarah M. S. Pearsall, “‘The Late Flagrant Instance of Depravity in My Family’: The Story of an Anglo-Jamaican Cuckold,” wmq, 3d ser., 60 [2003], 556).
wrote by volaney: two editions of Volney’s book about the United States were sold in the summer of 1804. The London edition was sold by Philadelphia bookseller Thomas dobson, while the American edition was published by John Conrad. Volney included detailed information on how to navigate the various “western waters” in the interior of North America (Relfs Philadelphia Gazette, 31 Aug.; Constantin François Chasseboeuf Volney, A View of the Soil and Climate of the United States of America [Philadelphia, 1804], 14-18; Vol. 40:353n).
From John Smith of the War Department Sir War Department Augt. 24th 1804 I have the Honor of transmitting herewith as early as possible, the five blank brevet Commissions required by your letter of the 16th inst.—and of informing you that the Secretary of War before leaving Washington, ordered that any communication from the Office to him, should be directed to the Post Office at Gardiner in the District of Maine. With the highest consideration and respect I am Sir Your Obedt. Humble Servant, Jno Smith RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the War Department on 29 Aug. and “Brevet commns.” and so recorded in SJL, but as received on 28 Aug. Enclosures not found.
From James Brown Sir, Natchez August 25th. 1804 Your letter of the 20th. of July was transmitted under cover of one from my brother at Frankfort, but was not received until last evening. I avail myself of the returning Mail to express my grateful sense of the confidence in me evidenced by your proposal to appoint me Secretary of the New Orleans territory, and to assure you that I will not only cheerfully accept the appointment, but will also endeavor to justify it, by a prompt and faithful discharge of the duties annexed to the office. With sentiments of real respect and Esteem I am Sir Your Most Obt Servt. James Brown 291
25 AUGUST 1804 RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 20 Sep. and so recorded in SJL.
under cover of one from my brother: see John Brown to TJ, 10 Aug.
From James Madison Dear Sir Aug. 25. 1804 I recd. yesterday afternoon your two favors of the 19th. & 23. I will write to Claibourne & Granger on the subject of the post estabt. thro the territory held by Spain and claimed by us. I previously however submit it to your determination whether it may not be best, besides the proposed negociation1 with Casa Calvo which he may reject, to provide for a simple passage of the mail witht. a post office, which will probably meet with no difficulty. This alternative seems to be the more necessary, considering the temper & threats of the Govr. at Pensacola. Mr. Granger feels an obligation to establish a post office in order to put the people of the contested district on the same footing with Citizens elsewhere. As the law gives no positive orders to that effect, his discretion may I think be fairly influenced by the peculiarity of the case. If no regard is to be had to the Spanish possession, every law in force in Louisiana ought to be extended into that district. The instructions given to Lear provided for the case of the Tunisian property. The refusal of the Bey to have any thing to do with him, may prolong the difficulty. But it will be better to wait for further information than to humour the Bey. I shall certainly be very happy to see you at my house. But I am sensible that I ought on this as on all occasions to spare you the trouble of the ride whenever you may wish an interview; and will accordingly hold myself ready to obey your intimations. We have heard nothing from Mr. & Mrs. Pichon since we left Washington. They have never withdrawn their promise of a visit, and therefore we may daily expect them. Other expectations of company will detain Mrs. M. at home for some little time. Yours with respect & attachment James Madison RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department at Orange on 25 Aug. and “Post Baton rouge. Tunisian property” and so recorded in SJL.
In a letter of 28 Aug. to William C. C. Claiborne (claibourne), Madison advised the governor of TJ’s desire to get affirmative consent for an American post office in the disputed area of Baton Rouge,
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25 AUGUST 1804 adding that “a mere passage” through the area would presumably meet no objections from the Spanish (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:643). govr. at pensacola: Vicente Folch y Juan (see Notes on Dispatches from Wil-
liam C. C. Claiborne, 4 July; Gideon Granger to TJ, 9 Aug.). 1 Word interlined in place of “arrangements.”
From Garrett Elliott Pendergrast Sir, Natchez August 25th: 1804 Confident that your attention would alone attach to the object, regardless of the manner of an address, I have without hesitation, although not honoured with the personal acquaintance of your Excellency, taken the liberty of pressing my own solicitation for an appointment in the contemplated mission for accertaining the boundary of Louisiana; flattering myself that should the several departments be not yet filled, Your Excellency would give consederation to my tender of servises. As my views in offering myself on this occasion, are to procure a situation that would enable me to investigate the natural history of the country, procure drawings of the most curious plants, analyze minerals collect vacabularies of the several indian tongues situated on or near the rout &c &c Your Excellency will be the most propper judge of the plans best calculated for such purposes. For any particulars relative to who I am give me leave to refer you to Dr. Casper Wister & Benjn. S. Barton of Phila. or to W. C C. Claiborne of New Orleans from whom I had the1 of senior physian to the troops that took possission of that City; and at the same time had the honour of being a super numary aid to his Excellency on that occasion. To the latter of the two former gentlemen I have written requesting him to mention me to you; but fearing the extensive literary persuits with which his is engaged might possibly prevent his immediate attention I have thought it would be most prudent to mention the thing to you myself at as early an hour as possible; especially as I feared that perhaps the present time was even too late With great respect I Your Excellencys devoted Servent Garrett Elliott Pendergrast. RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at head of text: “His Excellency The President of the US”; endorsed by TJ as received 20 Sep. and “to explore Louisiana” and so recorded in SJL.
Garrett Elliott Pendergrast (1776-1850) received a medical degree in 1803 from the University of Pennsylvania, where Caspar Wistar and Benjamin Smith Barton had been professors. His dissertation, a description of the lower Mississippi
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25 AUGUST 1804 Valley, included a medical report. Pendergrast was a member of medical and scientific societies and participated in a subscription campaign to establish a hospital in Natchez in 1804. He attempted, to no avail, to be named physician to the hospital at New Orleans in 1805. He temporarily abandoned his profession in 1808 to follow other interests, including a meeting with TJ in Washington that February. In 1812 Madison appointed him an army hospital surgeon (Natchez Mississippi
Messenger, 30 Nov.; Terr. Papers, 9:718; Bradley, Interim Appointment, 213-14; Journal of Southern History, 10 [1944], 396; Pendergrast, A Defence of Character; or, a Narrative of Facts [Baltimore, 1809]; Pendergrast, A Physical and Topographical Sketch of the Mississippi Territory, Lower Louisiana, and a Part of West Florida [Philadelphia, 1803]; jep, 2:255, 257). 1 Pendergrast likely dropped a word here at a page turn in MS.
From John Reed Honourable and Union College Schenectady (S.N.Y.) Much respected Sir, Augt. 25th. 1804. In beginning my letter to you I hesitate—Not because I know not what to say—but by reason of the delicacy of the subject on which I am about to write—As a citizen of the U.S.A. having become acquainted, by history and private information, with your character, as a patron and friend, I give myself leave to hope I shall give no offence by humbly addressing you on a subject highly interesting to myself only.—I will then inform you I am a young man who has been striving against the oppressions of poverty and using every honest mean in my power to obtain an education.—I came from the neighbourhood of Newport (R.I.) two years since with a Mr. Benjamin Allen, who is now a proffessor in this Institution and by whose assistance I have surmounted many difficulties. I have now finished my education, save six months—But, Alas! respected Sir, my circumstances are such, (the property which I obtained by industry before I came to College being expended) that I do not know how I can hope to support myself during that time except by the benefaction of some kind patron. Though the small sum of 30 or 40 pounds would be sufficient with my usial industry and economy to answer my wants til I could get into business, yet I have to lament the want of a much smaller sum, even the postage of my letter. I feel deeply sensible of the novelty, of the delicacy and almost impropriety of addressing your worth and greatness on a subject of so little general importance; and more especially so, when I consider my distant situation from you and my entire unacquaintance with you. But in turning my thoughts on the world I can see no one in whom I have better leave to hope. I look up to you Sir, as one of the Fathers of my 294
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Country and as one on whom its interest, this moment, materially depends—being thus impresed I hope Sir, you will pardon this my presumption.— The possibility of a deception on my part will naturly arise in your mind.—As a testimony of my character therefore, I inclose to you a letter from Mr. Bourse of N.P. mentioning a call to the ministry provided I would accept it. A call to the Ministry I cannot accept agreeable to my feelings, at least til I have compleated a regular course of study—At a proper time perhaps it would be agreeable; but [. . .] not think of leaving College til I have finished my education, except on account of pecuniary wants.—I at first resolved to forward you some testimonials of my character and situation from friends in this City, but have thought best to let no one, not even my most intimate friends, become acquainted with my writing—Stil should you desire further testimony of any kind I will immediately forward it— And worthy Sir, should this petition be deemed assuming, or should you deem my conduct in this particular illjudged, I must beg you to let my communication to be buried in oblivion—But on the contrary, should it be regarded by your Goodness, proper acknowledgements and expressions of gratitude shall be rendered by your devoted and Most humble Servant John Reed RC (MHi); torn at seal; addressed: “Thomas Jefferson Prest. of U.S.A. Washington City” and “r Mail”; franked; postmarked Albany, 1 Sep.; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: John Bours to Reed, Newport, Rhode Island, 23 Mch. 1804; as clerk of the vestry, Bours offers Reed a position as assistant minister and schoolmaster at Trinity Church in Newport (same). John Reed (1777-1845) of Wickford, Rhode Island, was born into an Episcopal
family of moderate financial means. He earned two degrees from Union College before accepting the rectorship at Christ Church in Poughkeepsie, New York, where he remained for 35 years (Helen Wilkinson Reynolds, ed., Records of Christ Church, Poughkeepsie, New York [Poughkeepsie, 1911], 283-6; Wilkins Updike, History of the Episcopal Church, in Narragansett, Rhode-Island [New York, 1847], 285-8; Troy Gazette, 9 Aug. 1808).
From Alpheus Rouse Honoured Sir, Lebanon Springs Canaan Aug. 26th 1804 Pleas to pardon the presumptions of a Stranger; who confesses he has assumed a Degree derogatory to his wishes and laments that the narrowness of his circumstances are such, which compels him, though reluctantly, to a revealance. In Witness of his Sincerity, he calls upon the God that made him: who has inspired him with a Mind, which 295
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has yielded to an existing unconquerable desire, of continuing the persuit of obtaining the necessary, and refined Standard of an useful Education. In order to effect which, it has not only become useful but absolutely necessary, that assistance from some quarter should be procured; and in procureance of which he implores the aid of your benevolence; and in this aid centers all his hopes—those hopes of futer usefulness. Though many are the times and frequent the occurrence, of being guided by mistakened notions such may unfortunately be the fate of the addresser; who now premeditatedly pursues an unpresedented practice, to accomplish the design, and to expatiate which notions it may require the remains of his existence, which if so rather than to prove in any manner whatsoever scurrilous, he would voluntaryly yield with assiduity; but his hopes are, that the eternal heavens witness the award And will prevent the execution, of any one thing, which may prove injurious. It is on thee—Oh thee! The sovering and guid of this youth. On thee humanity loudly calls for you to protect him being not over Twenty nor under Nineteen, and being deprived of that health which is requisite for the pursuance of Manuel Labour with the depriveance of those means, to accomplish this his favourite design. He therefore doubly envokes thy benevolent hand to rais him from such complicated ruin, as base Ignorence or point out the means by which it might be effected. As uncommon as this invocation may seem, he was aided by the good opinion of your unexampled character, being thus led on and directed by those intentions, may you not deem it an entrusion, if he asks of you the condescendsion, of answering this letter, either in the affirmative or Negative; if it should be so fortunate as to meet your approbation, point out the time when, the place whrere and manner how and with joyful speed he will obay the mandate. But on the contrary, if it meets with your disapprobation with equal ardour he waits for an answer, by which he may learn of his desteny, and thus being accompanied, by the sons of distress, which are hurled from the hight of expectation, down—down, to the deploreable abys of stern disapointment; and there pour fourth those sorrows, which are only known by them, and seek at forced asylum in the grave which niglect has dug. Most honoured Sir, now your patience is drawn to a conclusion, not otherwis than agreeable to his necessaties, has he addrest you: but further prays you to write as soon as covienunce will permit, to releive a mind greatly agetated by its cruel impatience. Adieu! This is from one, who is agreeable to the true principles of honour, yours ever to command and serve. Alpheus Rouse. 296
27 AUGUST 1804 RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Collection); addressed: “Mr. Thomas Jefferson Presedent of the United States City of Washington”; endorsed by TJ as received 6 Sep. and so recorded in SJL.
From Robert Ware Peacock Dear Sir Washn. 27 Augt 1804 I hope I shall be pardoned the Liberty I take in announcing to you the death of Richard Jordan Esquire, Surveyor, at Llewellinsburg, Saint Mary’s County, Md—by which event the Office has become vacant—and beg leave further to state that Reuben Craig Esquire, also of that neighbourhood, is an applicant for the Office— If a faithful adherence to the American Cause, a firm integrity, and attachment to republican principles, and a zealous and steady supporter of the present administration (and he was among the first in the County to avow those principles, and to the hazard of the Loss of private friendship, adhered thereto) added to his local situation can entitle One to preference, I beleive these circumstances are united in the Character proposed. In his Letter to me on the Subject he referred me to J. T. Mason Esqr. who had left the County—Should Certificates of his Character be deemed requisite, they shall be procured and forwarded by Yr. ob. Ser Rob: W: Peacock RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 1 Sep. and “Craig Reuben to be Surveyor Llewellyn’sburg Maryld. vice Richd Jordan decd.” and so recorded in SJL.
llewellinsburg: later Bushwood, where Richard Jordan had been surveyor of the customs since his father’s resignation in 1795 (Washington, Papers, Pres. Ser., 17:476-8).
From Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Museum Augt. 27th. 1804. Inclosed are the spiral springs you desire in yours of the 19th. instant The loop is easily made—thus, cut off the spring to the length desired with cutting-nippers—with a knife open two rings, and then with Plyers twist them to a right angle. I am much pleased by your approbation of this invention, and hope that others will also find the utility of it. The wire netting is certainly an important improvement of the cover, especially for a Public office. We are still making improvements in the manufacture of the Machinery— my Workmen are more expert in their work—my drilling machine is 297
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still more perfect, which is of vast importance. I wish Mr. Hawkins may not labour so long as I have done to overcome the difficulties of the first construction of the Machinery. I have wrote him long letters to acquaint him of my discoveries—and I have now several improvements to send him. I have lately seen in the Repertory of the Arts, his Patent right with a Plate of the several parts of the Polygraph and Physiognotrace; I wish I had the work before me that I might note several parts—one Idea which he has, I suppose lately conceived, is, the placing a pen to an irregular part of the Paralells for secrect writing, which he says, can only be decyphered by having a Polygraph with a simular fixture. This hint may set you to thinking of his mode, it is not defined by his figures that I remember, having only had a cursory view of the Book. The 2d. paragraph of your letter, i.e. Six lines would be a great recommendation of the Polygraph, but I do not chuse to give them to the Printer without your approbation—however there is no occasion to hurry, especially as I have at present some demands not yet complyed with, and with hopes of still making the machine more perfect—in which point of view I shall be very thankfull for the aid of your corrective modifications, as we accord in sentiment that it is “a precious invention.” And if it produces the habit of preserving copies of Letters; will be a blessing to mankind, especially in preventing litigious law suits. Accept my best wishes for your health. yours affectionately C W Peale RC (DLC); at foot of text: “His Excellency Thomas Jeferson Esqre President of U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 3 Sep., but recorded in SJL as received 4 Sep. PoC (Lb in PPAmP: Peale-Sellers Papers). seen in the repertory: “Specification of the Patent granted to John Isaac Hawkins, of Bordenton, in the United States of America; now residing in Lislestreet, in the County of Middlesex; for
new Machinery and Methods for Writing, Painting, Drawing, Ruling Lines and other Things, and for applying Parts of the aforesaid Machinery to other Purposes,” Repertory of Arts, Manufactures, and Agriculture, 2d ser., 4 [1804], 327-40). The six lines of TJ’s endorsement of the polygraph begin “On 5. months full trial” and end “a consoling possession” (TJ to Peale, 19 Aug.).
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From William Curtis Sir Gloucester, Highgate 28th. August 1804 I request you to accept my particular Thanks for your ready, and polite Attention to the Subject I had taken the liberty to trouble you with, I mean your Agency for the late Mrs. Ariana Randolph; your letter is a full and satisfactory answer to my Enquiries: I wish you had mentioned the Sum which Mrs. Randolph was to receive annually, and to what time that Sum was calculated, to make the Amount which Mr. Grymes confessed Judgement for, tho that, I suppose, may be seen at the federal Court Office, where the Judgement was confessed: your friendly Offer to give any Supplementary Information, I may want, is particularly acceptable, as I am very little informed on the Subject, which must be visible to you, from my letters; I do not, at present, know of anything necessary to ask, except the letters of Mrs. Ariana Randolph, Mr. Edmund Randolph, and Mr. Philip Grymes, which you say are in your Possission, and which shew that neither of those Persons expected there was any Obstacle in the way of collecting the Annuity; in this, I hope I do not ask amiss, if I do, I wish you would not comply, but as your Agency is at an end, I suppose the letters can be of no further Use to you, to me, they may be of much Service. Mr. Thomas Nelson, of York, will be at Colo. John Walker’s, and in that neighbourhood, about the Middle of September, and will continue there a Week, or two, he has promised to take Charge of anything you may favor me with: he has partly engaged to wait on you. I am, with Sentements of very great Respect, and Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obt. Servt. Wm. Curtis. RC (DLC); addressed: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson equire Monticello”; franked; endorsed by TJ as received 6 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. Curtis wrote from highgate in Gloucester County, Virginia, a home associated with the Whiting family, to which Curtis was connected through a previous
marriage (Dr. and Mrs. William Carter Stubbs, Descendants of Mordecai Cooke, of “Mordecai’s Mount” Gloucester Co. Va. 1650, and Thomas Booth, of Ware Neck Gloucester Co. Va. 1685 [New Orleans, 1923], 223; wmq, 1st ser., 18 [1910], 184). your letter: TJ to Curtis, 18 Aug.
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From Simeon De Witt Albany 28 Augt. 1804—
The President of the United States is respectfully requested to accept of the inclosed Map of the State of New York from The Author RC (MHi); endorsed by TJ as received from Simeon DeWitt on 7 Sep. and so recorded in SJL, but as received 6 Sep. Enclosure: Simeon De Witt, Map of the State of New York (Albany, 1804); Sowerby, No. 3851. Simeon De Witt (1756-1834) was one of the foremost cartographers of the early national period. Born in New York to a family of Dutch extraction, De Witt was educated at Queen’s College in New Jersey, where he received a B.A. in 1776 and an M.A. in 1788. During the American Revolution De Witt served as a private at the battle of Saratoga and as a geographer for the Continental Army. After receiving
a discharge from the army, De Witt became the surveyor general for the State of New York, a position that he held until his death (anb; T. Romeyn Beck, Eulogium of the Life and Services of Simeon De Witt, Surveyor-General of the State of New-York, Chancellor of the University, &c. &c. &c. [Albany, 1835]; Walter W. Ristow, American Maps and Mapmakers: Commercial Cartography in the Nineteenth Century [Detroit, 1985], 73-83). TJ acknowledged the receipt of the map in a brief note dated 7 Sep.: “Th: Jefferson presents his compliments to mr DeWitt and his thanks for his very useful & acceptible present of the map of New York” (PoC in DLC; endorsed by TJ).
From James Madison Dear Sir Aug. 28. 1804 The inclosed communications from Pinkney threaten some unexpected difficulties at Madrid. In the conduct of the Spanish Govt. we see pretty clearly the passions of Yrujo and the policy of reserving matter for negociating restrictions of Louisiana. It may be presumed that the posture of things there will hasten the departure of Monroe from London. Pinkney had not recd. the explanation of the Act of Congress. Mr. Livingston’s letter tho’ of old date is new; as are some of the accompaniments. Mr Merry’s answer to my several letters, coincides with, tho’ it cannot be the offspring of the spirit of Pitts administration as indicated to Monroe. He considers a simple denial of the offenders as disproof of the most regular testimony, and maintains the right not only to impress from American vessels on the high seas, but from British vessels in our own Harbours. And by making the detention of the Enemy ships a reason for blockading our harbours & harrassing our trade, leaves the continuance of the evil at the pleasure of the British Commanders. 300
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Altho’ the remarks on the conduct of the French frigate at Baltimore, seem to have been meant less as a formal complaint than as a controversial artifice, I think it will be proper to cause the facts to be enquired into. Should they ever turn out as they are stated no blame can result from the delay; no earlier notice of them having been given. The readiness of the belligerent Ministers & consuls to do this, justified the presumption that nothing seriously remiss had taken place. This specimen of Merry shews him to be a mere diplomatic pettifogger. Yrs. with respectful attachment James Madison RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as a letter from the State Department received 29 Aug. and “Spanish treaty—Merry’s ltr.—French impressmt.” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures: (1) Charles Pinckney to Madison, Madrid, 4 June, with a postscript dated 12 June, detailing Spain’s delays in executing the claims convention of 1802; Pinckney encloses a letter of 31 May to him from Pedro Cevallos, protesting the 24 Feb. act of Congress that authorized the establishment of a revenue district on the waters of the Mobile River and Mobile Bay, a territory that Cevallos insists is indisputably part of Spanish West Florida; Pinckney presumes this charge, “respecting the limits, to be an excuse for his either refusing or delaying the exchange, or proposing alterations to the Convention”; such is Spain’s “pride & resentment on the subject of the Cession of Louisiana, & the new Act they complain of” that Pinckney is unable to form an opinion as to when Spain will ratify the convention (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:281-5). (2) Anthony Merry to Madison, Philadelphia, 15 Aug., responding to Madison’s letters of 3, 7, and 23 July regarding accusations of malconduct against the British warships Cambrian, Driver, and Boston in New York harbor; in response to Madison’s allegations, Merry encloses extracts from correspondence between the British consul general at New York, Thomas Barclay, and Mayor DeWitt Clinton, and from letters to Merry from Captain William Bradley of the Cam-
brian and Captain John Erskine Douglas of the Boston; Bradley defends the conduct of his officers and denies Madison’s accusation that British vessels are conducting a blockade of New York; Douglas states that he has no knowledge of ships being boarded within U.S. jurisdiction by British officers or crews; in response to Madison’s complaints regarding the impressment of British subjects while within U.S. jurisdiction, Merry states that “it has always been the Practice for His Majestys Officers to impress British subjects from British Ships in all foreign Ports, and to demand them out of foreign Ships, without any Complaint ever having been made by the foreign Government”; the same practice, Merry believes, is followed by France, Denmark, and Sweden; Madison has argued that, as a neutral nation, the United States cannot permit these impressments because they augment the force of a belligerent vessel while in a neutral port; Merry counters that the United States made no such complaint when the French frigate Poursuivante impressed French seamen while refitting at Baltimore the previous winter; Merry asserts that British warships continue cruising in the vicinity of New York in order to protect British trade and packet vessels from the French (same, 601-8). Other enclosures not identified. passions of yrujo: for Carlos Martínez de Irujo’s heated objections to the establishment of the Mobile collection district, see Gallatin to TJ, 15 Mch.
301
To Robert Smith Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 28. 04 I inclose you a letter and other papers which I recieved from Captain Truxton by the last post. the malice and falsehood so habitual in Federal zealots had prepared me against surprize at the insinuations of this officer against you and myself. but what was his view in inclosing the letter to me? was it to give greater point to his disrespect? or did he imagine I should make him overtures to prevent his publication? I would rather he would publish than not; for while his writings will let the public see what he is, & what are the motives of his discontent, a few sentences of plain fact will set every thing in them to rights as to our conduct. be so good as to return me the written letter. The following paragraph which comes to me from a friend in Philadelphia I quote for your notice. ‘it is said here that George Harrison has applied for the place in the Navy that Genl. Irvine had. he has got too much already for any federalist who has rendered his country no personal service in the field. this man is married to Thos. Willing’s niece. Willing is Presidt. of the bank of the US. you may also observe he was Chairman at a meeting when they agreed to hoist the black cockade on the left arm in honour of Hamilton. they also resolved and expected the clergymen would preach in his favor.’ the writer is a most solid republican, & who generally expresses the feelings of the Republicans in Philadelphia pretty faithfully. I know not what functions Irvine executed for the Navy; but if any, the above sentiments are worthy attention, as the emploiment of Harrison has given them heart burnings. I know nothing of him, whether moderate or violent; but until the party learn a little more moderation & decency, no new favors should be conferred on them. Pensylvania seems to have in it’s bowels a good deal of Volcanic matter, & some explosion may be expected. we must be neutral between the discordant republicans but not between them & their common enemies. I salute you with sincere affection & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Secretary of the Navy.” Enclosure: Thomas Truxtun to TJ, 20 Aug., and enclosure.
the following paragraph: see Thomas Leiper to TJ, 16 Aug.
302
From Jacob Wagner Sir Department of State 28 August 1804. I have the honor to enclose, according to your directions, two sealed commons, one for Samuel Travis as mate of a Revenue Cutter and the other for a commor. of Loans for South Carolina. The blank pardon enclosed is for a different person and crime from those about which you gave the former direction. Last week I had the honor to forward the blank commons for the officers of Orleans territory, which I hope you may have safely and seasonably received. With the highest respect, I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obed. Servt. Jacob Wagner RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department on 1 Sep. and “commns. for Travis, Neufville, pardon Scipio Brown” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures not found.
according to your directions: TJ to Wagner, 23 Aug. received: on 28 Aug. TJ received from the State Department a communication containing blank commissions for Orleans Territory (see Appendix iv).
From William C. C. Claiborne My dear Sir, New-Orleans 29 August 1804 It is with real concern I announce to you, the death of my esteemed friend H. B. Trist. He died this morning of a malignant yellow fever, after an illness of five days. The loss of this citizen is a public misfortune, and will occasion much private distress:—He was faithful to the trust with which you honored him, and had he lived a few years longer, would have made ample provision for the amiable family dependant upon him. But the two Mr. Browns will be enabled I hope to provide for all their wants;— they are benevolent, good young men and of promising talents. Mr. Henry Brown has been appointed by me a Notary Public, and his encouragement has been considerable: Mr. William Brown acted as Deputy Collector, and performed with judgment, industry and discretion the principal duties of the Office:—Permit me my dear Sir, to recommend him as Mr. Trist’s Successor; of his capacity I have no doubt, and for his industry and integrity I will pledge myself. It has been the will of Almighty God to carry me through a severe fever; but I am not yet completely releived of its effects: it has left me in a weak State of body and mind, and the illness of Mrs. Claiborne has considerably retarded my recovery;—She has been at the point of 303
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death for ten days; the disease however took a favorable turn on yesterday and her Physicians now entertain hopes of her recovery. A fever which the Doctors pronounce to be the Yellow fever is beginning to prevail in this city, and has proved particularly fatal to the Americans. Pray Sir excuse this letter, I write with a feeble hand, and in great distress of mind. Your friend! William C. C. Claiborne RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); in Joseph Briggs’s hand, signed by Claiborne; at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Oct. and so recorded in SJL with notation “death of Trist”; also en-
dorsed by TJ: “Brown Wm. v. Trist. collector.” The two mr. browns were in-laws of the Trist family (Elizabeth House Trist to TJ, 11 Apr.).
From Benjamin Rush Dear Sir/ Philadelphia August 29. 1804 Your letter from Monticello of the 8th of August, was perfectly satisfactory to me. I applied for the private Secretaryship to a supposed English Embassy for my Son, only to gratify his repeated Solicitations to me for that purpose. He is daily acquiring business, and his prospects in his profession (which a Voyage to Europe would have interrupted) are very flattering. He possesses talents and a wish for public life. To the latter, I am constantly opposing my experience and advice. The time I fear is past in our country in which happiness, or even usefulness is to be expected from public Stations. How different were our feelings in the years 1774, 1775 & 1776, and how much did the Words country and liberty import in those memorable years!— I shall receive with pleasure the publication you have promised me upon the Character of the Messiah, but unless it advances it to divinity, and renders his death as well as his life, necessary for the restoration of mankind, I shall not accord with its Author. There is writer of the name of Abbadie whose opinions are mine upon this subject. He is learned, ingenious, and logical, and perfectly free from enthusiasm. You will probably find it in the library of your Parish minister, or of some of the Clergy in your Neighbourhood.— I am now devoting all my leisure hours to preparing a new edition of my medical Works for the press. They will contain some corrections, particularly a retraction of my former belief in the contagion of the yellow fever; and many Additions, suggested by the experience 304
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and observations of the last years of my life. They will be comprized in four large octavo Volumes. Our city is more healthy than usual, at this season of the year, owing to the frequent rains which have washed the miasmata from our atmosphere, and conveyed a large portion of the filth of our Streets which exhale from them, into the Delaware.— With sincere Wishes for your health and happiness, I am Dr Sir very respectfully Benjn: Rush RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 8 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. Jacques abbadie, a Protestant theologian, first published Traité de la divinité de nôtre seigneur Jésus-Christ in 1689. English-language editions with varying
titles were published into the nineteenth century (dnb; L. H. Butterfield, ed., Letters of Benjamin Rush, 2 vols. [Princeton, 1951], 2:887n). The second edition of Rush’s Medical Inquiries and Observations was published in 1805.
Notes on Appointments Legislative council Certain
French Boré
Poydrass. Pt Coupee speaks 3. languages Bellechasse. Acadn coast 95. 111
Uncertain
Derbigny. 28. 70. 115. Eng.
Detrahan. 7. 47. 85. 116. q
Dubuys 26. 68. 74. Eng. 305
[before 30 Aug. 1804]
American Morgan Clarke Watkins Evan Jones Roman. Attacapas Wikoff. Appelousa
Dow 3. languages Geo. Pollock
30 AUGUST 1804
Sauvé. 117. Eng. Cantarelle. Acadn. coast. Fr. Sp. 88. Judge Toulman ✓ Collector Gaines.
Tombigbee
MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25351); undated; entirely in TJ’s hand, on reverse of Notes on Appointments printed at 13 July. TJ probably began compiling this list of candidates for appointments in July, when he worked on a similar list for the legislative council of Orleans Territory and when he named Edmund P. gaines the collector at Fort Stoddert. The many cancellations and changes to the council candidates, however, reflect
decisions that he likely made during the latter half of August with input from Madison, to whom he sent a suggested list of appointees on 16 Aug. and with whom he consulted in person at Montpelier at the end of the month. TJ’s instructions to William C. C. Claiborne on whom to name to the council were based on the choices indicated in the list printed above (TJ to Gallatin, 3 July; Notes on Appointments, [ca. July]; TJ to Madison, 23 Aug.; TJ to Claiborne, 30 Aug.).
To William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir August 30. 1804. Various circumstances of delay have prevented my forwarding till now the general arrangements for the government of the territory of Orleans. inclosed herewith you will recieve the commissions. among these is one for yourself as Governor. with respect to this I will enter into frank explanations. this office was originally destined for a person1 whose great services and established fame would have rendered him peculiarly acceptable to the nation at large. circumstances however exist which do not now permit his nomination, & perhaps may not at any time hereafter. that therefore being suspended, and entirely contingent, your services have been so much approved as to leave no desire to look elsewhere to fill the office. should the doubts which you have sometimes expressed, whether it would be eligible for you to continue, still exist in your mind, the acceptance of the commission gives you time to satisfy yourself by further experience, and to make the time and manner of withdrawing, should you ultimately determine on that, agreeable to yourself. be assured that whether you continue or retire, it will be with every disposition on my part to be just & friendly to you. James Brown of Kentucky is appointed Secretary for the territory. his distinguished understanding, his legal knowledge, & his possession of the languages, will, I trust, render him an useful aid. Domi 306
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nic A. Hall, late a district judge of S. Carolina, accepts the office of judge of the district of Orleans: as does Mahlone Dickerson of Pensylva, that of Attorney of the district. Commissions for Colo. Kirby of Connecticut & mr Prevost of New York as judges of the Superior court are also sent. the other commission for that bench cannot go at this time, because it’s acceptance is not known. the office of Marshal being one which could probably be discharged by a native Creole, I should like to avail ourselves of it to shew my desire that they should have a fair participation of office in all cases where their education & line of life qualifies them. the character given me of a mr Clouet & a mr Guillot, had suggested one of them to my mind for the office: a mr Urquhart is represented as still more fit. whether his long standing in the place would be equivalent to his being a native in the view of the inhabitants may be doubted. I leave to you therefore to select which of the three you think best. In the legislative council I think it necessary to place a majority of Americans, say 7. Americans and 6. French, or persons of such long standing as to be considered as French; that there should be some mixture of the mercantile with the planting interest; and a representation of the different settlements in the country, justly proportioned, as far as they can furnish proper materials to that of the city. on this account I was particularly anxious to get your information & recommendation, & wrote to you for it at a very early period. as soon as I had reason to fear that that letter had miscarried, I wrote a second, in time, I hoped, still to obtain your information. but it is not arrived, & I am obliged to proceed without it. mr Boré’s protest against an act of the legislature, is such a proceeding as our law would deem more than disrespectful. yet knowing that it is not so viewed by a Frenchman, considering his integrity, his agricultural merits, the interests he has at stake, & his zeal for liberty, I consider it proper to name him absolutely as a member, as I also do mr Poydras of Point Coupée, & mr Bellechasse, whom you recommended. I wish you also to select three others out of the 5. following names, to wit, Derbigné, Detrahan, Dubuys, Cantarelle of the Acadian coast, & Sauvé. proceeding then to the Americans, I name Messrs. Benjamin Morgan, Daniel Clarke, Dr. Watkins, Evan Jones, Roman (said to be of the Attacapas) and Wikoff (said to be of the Appelousas) absolutely, and propose George Pollock & Dr. Dow, out of whom you will select one to make the 7th. and with the 6. preceding, to make up 13. in chusing these characters it has been an object of considerable attention to chuse French who speak the American language, & Americans who speak the French. yet I have not made the want of the two languages an absolute exclusion. but it should be 307
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earnestly recommended to all persons concerned in the business of the government, to acquire the other language, & generally to inculcate the advantage of every person’s possessing both, and of regarding both equally as the language of the territory. another object still more important is that every officer of the government make it his peculiar object to root out that abominable venality, which is said to have been practised so generally there heretofore. every connivance at it should be branded with indelible infamy, and would be regarded by the General government with distinguished severity. I have not filled up the blanks for the names in the commissions, because the Christian names are for the most part unknown to me, and the orthography of the French names not ascertained. I pray you to fill them as herein before indicated, & to deliver them to the parties. the Dedimus for administering the oath to yourself is also left blank to be filled up by yourself. it might be gratifying to have it done by a French native speaking English, unless one of the judges be on the spot.—on the subject of the Marshal, I will add that if you know any person whom it would be more advantageous to appoint than either of the three whom I have named, you are free to make the substitution. be pleased immediately after filling up the blanks to return to the Secretary of state’s office a correct list of all the names, as the commissions are recorded in his office, where the blanks must be filled; and in order that I may be able correctly to renew the nominations to the Senate. I salute you with friendship & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); recorded in SJL as a letter to Claiborne. boré’s protest: see Jean Étienne Boré to TJ, 10 Feb.
1 On the PoC, but probably not the RC, TJ marked this word with an asterisk and wrote in the margin (portion lost): “[. . .]a Fayette.”
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, New-Orleans August 30th. 1804 During my late Illness, I had the pleasure to receive your esteemed favours of the 7h., 12h and 17h. of July;—But being then unable to write, I requested my private Secretary Mr. Briggs to inform you of their receipt, and to forward to you, the Names of several Gentlemen as suitable Characters for the Legislative Council.—I regret exceedingly the miscarriage of your Letter to me of the 17th. of April;—Had I received that Communication, I should have had more time to investigate Characters, & might have made a more general & perhaps bet 308
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ter recommendation.—On the List however forwarded by Mr. Briggs (by my direction) will be found the names of our most respectable Citizens.— Mr. Julien Poidrass of Point Coupee, is among the most influential Men in the Province; he possesses a large Estate, & is a Man of good Information. There was another Gentlemen (Mr. Samuel Young) mentioned as residing at Point Coupee; he also is a man of fortune; But I do not think his appointment would be pleasing; Mr. Young is much disliked in this City, & I have lately learned, that he considers himself a Citizen of the Mississippi Territory, where he has a large Estate, & in which he, now does, or will shortly reside. Messrs. Morgan, Watkins, Kenner & Donelson of New Orleans are Men of sense and property;—The first & second are decidedly attached to Republican principles;—of the sentiments of the latter, I am not so well advised;—But they are moderate, prudent Men:— The three last are said to be in a small degree interested in the Florida purchases, and indeed unless it be Mr Benjamin Morgan, there are few Americans of fortune who resided in N. Orleans previous to the Treaty, but were more or less engaged in that speculation. Messrs. Pitot, Petit, and Duplessis are all wealthy Merchants & held in high estimation; Doctor Dow is also highly esteemed, and I believe deservedly so.— Messrs. Bellchasse, Le Briton D’Orgenoi & Mather are all Farmers, residing on the Coast between the City and Manshac’;—The two first are Creoles of the Province, and amiable Men; the third is a Native of Scotland, & a Man of great Information & Integrity of Character: His Affairs are said to be embarrassed; But he has in possession a handsome estate. Mr. Mather next to the British, is most partial to the American Government, and I believe he would execute with fidelity any Trust Committed to him. William Wikoff Junior opposite Batton Rouge, William Wykoff Senior and Theophilus Collins of Opelousas are Native Americans, Men of clear property, sense and Integrity;—of their political sentiments I have no knowledge. M. Loviell, Dubuche, Foutenet, and Durall of Attackapas, I have no personal acquaintance with; But fame represents them all, as Men of sense, fortune and probity.— Doctor Sibley of Nachetoches, is a Man of Science and a true Republican; I have understood that previous to his leaving the United States his Affairs were much embarrassed;—But during his residence at Nachetoches, he is said to have acquired some valuable landed property.— 309
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I have heard Mr. Benjamin Morgan express his disapprobation of the Slave Trade; But the sentiment here is so general in favor of that Inhuman Traffic; that I am enclined to think most of the other Gentlemen above named are advocates for it; at least for a few years.— The confidence with which you honor me by the Blank Commissions you transmit for a Revenue Officer at the Bayou St. John, I feel is a flattering compliment; and shall endeavour as soon as possible to name such Person for those offices as your Letter contemplates, and the situation of Revenue affairs in that quarter requires. It gives me sincere satisfaction to find you so sensible of the circumstances which extorted from me, the establishment of the Louisiana Bank, and so willing to attribute my Conduct to the true motives.— The Bank continues to sleep; the doubts suggested as to the legality of its existence having interposed just at the time when the public Interest in the speculation began of itself to flag, the blow has I believe proved fatal to it; at least for the present.— With respect to the young Gentleman Mr. Gurley who has enjoyed a portion of my patronage, I have only to say, that he was a Stranger to me, but came well recommended from the Seat of Government and other places. His Letters were for the most part from Republican Characters of high Standing;—one in particular from Mr. Granger the Post Master General.—Of his private Character, or of his previous political Conduct or opinions I had no personal knowledge whatever;— But his Letters prevented every suspicion that either was exceptionable; And the conversations which I have had with him, as well as the uniform correctness of his Conduct confirmed me in the Belief, that his present political Bias was decidedly in favour of the present Administration.—It has been my misfortune, ever since I have had the honor to represent the General Government in the Western Country, to have found the weight of at least professional Talents on the federal side.—When I arrived in the Mississippi Territory, it was impossible for me to fill the Offices under the Government, with Justice to the Country, without borrowing assistance from a Sect whom I had no satisfaction in employing; and who conscious of the necessity that gave them Consequence, affected to despise the favours they enjoyed; My situation in that respect, was afterwards somewhat bettered.—But now again at the Commencement of this Government, I look around in vain for Men Capable of holding offices with Credit to themselves and the State, and in the purity of whose political sentiments I can place entire reliance. Among the Lawyers (amounting to near thirty) there are but three whom I knew to be Republicans.—One was Mr. Lewis Kerr (from the State of Ohio, & lately of Natchez) and I ap 310
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pointed him Sheriff of the City; conceiving that in the incipiency of the operation of American Law, that important office should be filled by one who personally enjoyed my Confidence, & was himself possessed of legal Information;—the second was Mr. Edd. Nichols (late of Maryland) whom I appointed Clerk of my Court, and with this appointment, I am not as satisfied as I could wish;—And the third was Mr. Henry Brown (late of the City of Washington) and him I have made a Notary Public, which in this City is a lucrative office.— As federal Influence declines in the States, the remote Territories will naturally become Assylums for that Party; and particularly for those young Men whose politicks expose them to embarrassment at Home; they will either calculate on strengthening their Party in a more promising quarter, or indulge a prudent hope of political oblivion.— There can be no doubt, but this City is much exposed to the yellow Fever;—this Disease is now raging, and altho’ the Physicians pronounce it not contagious, yet seven or eight die of a Day, and new cases are hourly occuring.—My late Indisposition, was a violent attack of the yellow Fever, and I am represented as the only American who has yet recovered.—I should most certainly remove my family in the Country, if Mrs. Claiborne’s situation would permit; but she continues dangerously ill; her Fever has been constant for three Weeks, & her consequent debility is very great, but the Physians still entertain hopes of her recovery, which I pray God may be realised.—I recall to mind, the Conversation to which you refer on the subject of a new plan for Towns. It is impossible to dwell for one Moment on the plan you propose, without receiving an Impression of the preference to which it is entitled, as well on the score of elegance and comfort, as of health.—I should esteem it a great happiness should I be enabled to introduce such a plan into the parts of this City, that yet remain to be built. As this City promises to have a rapid encrease (& the havoc of Disease is at present so evident) I must confess, I entertain sanguine hopes of introducing this favorite Scheme, and with that view shall spare no pains to impress its excellencies on the minds of those Citizens, whose influence will be serviceable.— From every thing I can learn, the Indians on the West side of the River are well disposed to the U. States;—A Chief and some Warriors of the Caddoe’ nation, lately visited our Commandant at Nachitoches; and were at first displeased to find that they received no presents, as was usual under the Spanish Government;—But upon the Commandants informing them that the U. States would probably establish a Trading House for the purpose of supplying their Wants on moderate 311
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Terms, and protecting them against the impositions of private Traders, it is reported to me, they expressed much satisfaction; and after having received their Rations retired from the Post well pleased.— I am happy to learn from the Department of State, that my answer to Governor Folch’s Letter has met the approbation of the Government— For my own part, I entertain no doubt of our right as far as the Perdido; But I conceived it improper to discuss with Mr. Folch the merits of a question which was not for us to decide.— The Number of those who are connected with the Land Speculation in Florida, I fear is considerable; Mr. Daniel Clark was the first Adventurer, & many others followed his example; But whatever may be their numbers or their standing, the probable fate of their rapacious schemes is very just, and will be a matter of Triumph to many worthy Citizens. Under the former Government, of this Province, Smuggling was carried on to a great extent, and the facility with which the Revenue Officers could be bribed was no less disgraceful than notorious. That like fraudulent attempts will often be made under our Government, I consider as highly probable;—But I persuade myself that the vigilance and inflexible Integrity of our Officers will in a year or two put down this species of Corruption.—There is however, one great evil existing in this Province, a remedy for which I fear cannot easily be devised. It is the little regard which is paid to Oaths, particularly among the lower Class of Citizens;—The moral obligation seems to have but little Influence, which may perhaps in some degree be attributed to their Religion, for I believe it is understood among the ignorant, that a confession to the Priest wipes away all Sin.— The explanation which your Goodness induced you to give me, relative to the Letter communicated to Congress, is an honor I did not expect, nor was it at all necessary for my tranquility. I was always convinced that the submitting to the perusal of Congress my Communication of the 2d. of January was proper, nor did I for a moment doubt but that all due precautions had been observed to prevent its Contents from being made public.—The spurious and illeberal representation of the substance of my Letter, which was prepared by some one or more of my Enemies placed me for a Day or two in an unpleasant situation, and subjected me temporalely to the resentment of a portion of the Society here;—The effect however was soon effaced.—But latterly Mr. Edd. Livingston (urged by Mr. Daniel Clarke who has acquired a great Influence over him) in his Memorial to Congress, has made some Remarks which evidently have an allusion to the Forgery which appeared in the Papers;—I am enclined to think however, that 312
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Mr. Livingston now regrets the part he acted in this Business, but his pride will not permit him to acknowledge it:—He finds himself neglected by the French Mal-Contents, and not ever thanked for his services. I have recently read my letter of the 2d. of January, and my residence here, has tended to confirm me in the sentiments there delivered.— The fact is, that the people of Louisiana, are not prepared for a Representative Government, and the experiment would be hazardous; But perhaps policy might justify the Introduction of the second Grade of Territorial Government.—In New-Orleans and its vicinity, the Society may be considered as tolerably well informed; But in the other parts of the Province, the great Bulk of the Inhabitants are in a State of wretched Ignorance, and very much under the Influence of their Priests.— As soon as my state of health will permit, I will examine the Land adjoining the Canal of Carondulet, and will give you an accurate account of its situation, relative value &c.—I should feel happy in promoting the Interest of General La Fayette, and I do really think his residence in Louisiana would be a great public Benefit. The family of my departed friend Mr. Trist, have not yet recovered of their distress, and the Indisposition of Mr. Henry Brown, who is now confined to his Bed, encreases their uneasiness; His Physians however, I learn, do not consider him dangerous.— I pray you to excuse this incorrect Scrawl;—My late Disease has left me in a state of great feebleness both of Mind & Body—So much so, that I fear my Health will not be entirely restored for some time. Will you accept my best wishes for a Continuance of your health & happiness, and believe me to be— With the greatest respect. Your faithful friend. William C. C. Claiborne. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Oct. and so recorded in SJL with notation “miscellaneous.” esteemed favours: see Joseph Briggs to TJ, 16 Aug., regarding Claiborne’s reference to a letter from TJ of 12 July. briggs to inform you: Briggs to TJ, 16 and 17 Aug. On 30 Aug., Claiborne prepared a list of men “recommended to compose the Legislative Council,” consisting of only the names and places of residence of the
candidates. It duplicated the names on the list forwarded by Joseph Briggs to TJ on 17 Aug., except that it no longer included samuel young (MS in DNA: RG 59, LAR, file of Benjamin Morgan, in Briggs’s hand, signed and dated by Claiborne). florida purchases: the transfer of Louisiana to the United States sparked extensive speculation in West Florida lands by many leading New Orleans residents. “Almost the whole of the Americans, English & Irish here, with many Frenchmen & Spaniards are engaged on this speculation,” James Wilkinson reported from the city in January. Writing to TJ on 13
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30 AUGUST 1804 May, William Dunbar claimed that “extensive sales” by the Spanish government were made in the expectation that West Florida would soon be transferred to the United States. Many of these sales were made by the former intendant of Louisiana, Juan Ventura Morales, now paymaster general and intendant pro tempore of
West Florida, who subsequently claimed to be acting under a “Royal Decree” that sanctioned his transactions (Terr. Papers, 9:151; Andrew McMichael, Atlantic Loyalties: Americans in Spanish West Florida, 1785-1810 [Athens, Ga., 2008], 63-7; Claiborne to TJ, 10 Nov. 1804).
To Henry Dearborn Dear Sir Monticello Aug. 30. 04 I think we had agreed on the following lists of Commandants for Louisiana ⎫ George Hammond of Georgia ⎪ ⎪ Return J. Meigs of Ohio ⎬ to be Colonels Gibs of Massachusets ⎪⎪ ⎭ Richard Kennon of Virginia ⎫ John M. Scott of Kentucky ⎬ to be Majors ⎭ Seth Hunt of N. Hampshire I now inclose you the commissions which I recieved for signature from your office yesterday evening. when you shall have filled them up & signed them, would it not be best to forward the 1st. 2d. 4th. & 5th. to Governor Harrison, informing the parties of it that they may proceed immediately & on sure ground? this will lessen the risk of miscarriage of the commissions. perhaps it might be better that Harrison should forward them on to St. Louis. their particular district may be assigned by letter. if Hammond accepts I presume he had better be at St. Louis, if he does not either Meigs or Gibs should go there. I presume the relative rank of the Colonels will be according to their former commissions. Meigs has accepted by letter to me: and Kennon may be so considered also. I formerly mentioned to you my apprehensions of danger for Hunt in the Senate. whether this be serious enough to render it imprudent to nominate him, decide as you think best for him. to me he is perfectly agreeable, and I believe very proper for the place. it would be well they should all endeavor to acquire the French as soon as possible. I salute you with affection & Respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Secretary at War.” Recorded in SJL as a letter of 28 Aug. Enclosures: see TJ to John Smith of the War Department, 16 Aug. It was Georgia congressman Samuel, not George, hammond, for whom the
appointment was intended (Terr. Papers, 13:28-9; TJ to the House of Representatives, 31 Jan. 1805). gibs of massachusets: probably Caleb Gibbs, a Revolutionary War veteran and frequent applicant for federal office (Vol. 34:394n).
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30 AUGUST 1804 meigs has accepted: Return Jonathan Meigs, Jr., to TJ, 13 Aug., not found (see Appendix iv). For the apprehen
sions connected to Seth Hunt’s appointment, see Gallatin to TJ, 11 May, and Dearborn to TJ, 1 June.
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir New York 30th August 1804 Your letter of the 23d reached me on the 28th. An inconvenience arises from the mode adopted for making the appointment of commr. of loans in South Carolina: we will not know, at the treasury, the person appointed in time to make the remittances, send the bond instructions &a. In order to obviate this & prevent any disappointment, I have directed the remittance necessary to pay the next quarter dividends, to be made to the cashier of the Branch Bank with instructions how to act in case an officer should not be qualified by the 1st of Octer.—But as that would be an awkward circumstance; I have also written to Mr. Duvall to enclose to you a letter signed but unsealed covering the blank bond &a. and directed (leaving the name blank) to the commissioner of loans of South Carolina. It will be necessary that you should also transmit that letter to Mr. Peter Freneau with directions, after having filled the blank, to deliver it together with the commission to the person appointed; as he cannot certify the dividend books or otherwise act, until after he has taken the oath and given bond and security. I have preferred that mode rather than to inform Mr Duvall of the agency given to Mr Freneau and to request him to send the letter himself to Freneau: I have only told him that as you would probably send the commission from Monticello directly to Charleston, it was proper, in order to avoid delay that he should send to your care the letter & bond destined for the officer appointed. I enclose two letters from the collector of Charleston to be returned, another recommendation for the collectorship of Hampton, and a recommendation, which seems unexceptionable for the office of surveyor at Llewensburgh a small port of delivery in Maryland, annexed to the district of Nanjemoy. The style of the commissions are “Surveyor of the port of Lewellensburgh in the district of Nanjemoy” and “Inspector of the revenue for the port of Lewellensburgh.” 1 I still intend to leave this on Monday 3d Septr. on my way to Washington, to which place letters may be hereafter directed. I will travel very slowly and do not expect to reach Washington before the 14th. With great respect and sincere attachment Your obedt. Servant Albert Gallatin Mr Armstrong has not yet sailed 315
30 AUGUST 1804 RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States Monticello”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 8 Sep. and “Comr. loans S.C.—Collectr. Hampton.—Survr. Llewellyn’sburg” and so recorded in SJL with additional notation “Brough. Key.” Enclosure: Jeremiah Jordan to Gallatin, Leonard Town, 19 Aug., reporting the death of his son Richard Jordan, surveyor at Llewellensburg, on 13 Aug., and recommending Edmund Key to fill the position (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Key Edmund.
Survr. Llewellyn’sbg v. Jordan. decd.” and [opening quotation mark supplied] “ ‘Surveyor of the port of Lewellensburg in the district of Nanjemoy’ & ‘Inspector of the revenue for the port of Lewellenburg.’ ”). Other enclosures not found. After many delays, John armstrong sailed from New York on 4 Sep., arriving at Nantes 38 days later (New-York Commercial Advertiser, 5 Sep.; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:168). 1
Closing quotation mark supplied.
From Philip Mazzei Pisa, 30 Agosto, 1804.
Il Latore della presente sarà il Cittadino Giuseppe Timpanari Viganó, benemerito e vittima della causa Repubblicana nei tempi trascorsi. Melzi, il Ministro incaricato del portafoglio degli Affari esteri, e il Cittadino Tassoni Ministro della Repubblica Italiana in Etruria, s’interessano caldamente per Lui; né potrebbero fare altrimenti, dicendo e scrivendo essi medesimi, che “i servigi da Lui prestati al Governo Cisalpino gli causarono una sentenza di morte, commutata poi in una prigionia in un carcere della Sicilia, che sarebbe stata perpetua senza il trattato di Firenze.” Da tutto quel che ne so, arguisco, che l’abominevol fine d’una Rivoluzione che à costato fiumi di preziosissimo sangue, e la poca speranza, che si mantengano i languidi residui di governo repubblicano, che tuttavia esistono in alcune parti d’Europa, l’abbiano determinato a refugiarsi nell’unico Paese, dove si può non temere le catene del Dispotismo. Questa è congettura; ma fondata su dati che lo dimostrano quasi geometricamente, e che mi ànno costato immensa fatica per raccapezzarli. Ò scritto più che S. Paolo ai Corinti per disotterrarli, poichè poco si può estrarre dalla sua bocca. La sua riserva eguaglia quasi la sua modesta. Melzi lo stima lo ama, e gli à somministrato mezzi d’ogni genere, onde pervenire al suo intento. Egli à intenzione di prender moglie in America, d’iniziarsi nel commercio per il quale à cognizioni e fondi e anche d’applicarsi a qualche intrapresa letteraria, essendo molto colto e versato nelle scienze. Porta seco molte commendatizie; ma io non lo raccomando, persuaso che quel che ne ò detto, e dirò, avrà presso di Lei molto maggior peso d’una commendatizia. 316
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Questo sorprendente giovane nacque in Silicia nel 1771 di parenti nobili e ricchi. L’ottimo Padre non risparmiò nulla per farlo educare nella propria casa, e instruire in tutto ciò che tende a nobilitare la mente dell’uomo. All’età di 18 anni fù incaricato dal Principe di Caramanico, Vicerè di Sicilia, dell’erezione di un Collegio nel centro dell’Isola per l’istruzione della gioventù in tutte le scienze, e della scelta dei Professori. Per dissipar le nebbie colle quali viene offuscata la nostra mente nell’età più tenera, e diriger la gioventù verso i veri, prese per se la cattedra del dritto di natura e delle genti, e la spiegazion del Vangelo. La massima circospezione, colla quale procedeva, non bastò per impedire al Pretismo di sospettarne le vedute. Fù accusato; si difese vittoriosamente; e la calunnia contribuì ad inalzarlo sempre più nella stima pubblica e del Governo. Ma la sempre inquieta Teocrazia, che sa piegare a tempo, senza mai cedere definitivamente, tornò tante volte all’attacco, e tanto l’inquietò, che dopo un’anno si dimesse, e volle sortirir del paese, non ostante la instanza del primo Ministro Acton per ritenerlo. Siccome il Padre gli aveva fatto studiare anche la Diplomazia, volle andare in varie parti d’Europa per vederla in faccia. È facile a comprendere, che lo stato delle cose a quell’epoca dovè introdurlo da per tutto presso le persone che nutrivano i medesimi sentimenti dei nostri. Si trovò in Venezia nel tempo della Rivoluzione. Adorato dai Patrioti, e stimato dai Nobili prudenti e savi (nel numero dei quali erano vari Aristocratici di buona fede, com’Ella si ricorderà che n’erano anche in Francia) ei fù molto utile; e probabilmente vi sarebbe restato, se non seguiva l’infame trattato di Formio, (sul qual soggetto, il di Lei amico scrivente, che à sempre stimato Attico assai più di Cicerone, e coltivava l’orto, si espresse come segue:) “La pace di Formio e un nuovo monumento della pertinacia delle vecchie massime della volgar politica, proscritta dalle declamazioni dei repubblicani francesi, e religiosamente seguita dal Direttorio Esecutivo. Malgrado la Dichiarazione dei Diritti, l’Areopago di Parigi à trafficato della Libertà veneta, come da altri si fece di quella della Pollonia. “Cadit persona, manet res.” E che rimane! Pochi furbi, che comandano a molti gonzi, che obbediscono.” Il nostro Timpanari, dopo d’essere stato in molti luoghi della Germania e dell’Italia, dovunque stimato, e sovente impiegato in cose degne di Lui, fù chiamato a Milano dal Presidente del Direttorio del Repubblica Cisalpina, dove gli furono date commissioni importanti anche dalla Cispadana, e poi fù mandato dalla Cisalpina Incaricato d’Affari a Napoli. Fù ricevuto come tale; ma circa 8 mesi dopo, subito che seppesi la sconfitta della Flotta francese in Egitto, il che diede coraggio a quel Governo d’incarcerare il Ministro di Francia, fù anch’esso 317
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arrestato, e messo in un carcere sotterraneo in Sicilia, ove la sua situazione era tale da fargli desiderar la morte, alla quale fù poi sentenziato, quando il total roverscio delle armi francesi in Italia face credere a quel Governo di poter calpestare impunemente ogni diritto. Qualche giorno prima della sentenza era stato a trovarlo il Teologo del Rè, il quale colla scusa d’andar per confessarlo, doveva persuaderlo ad abbandonar la strada che aveva preso, a scrivere in favor del governo monarchico, e promettergli emolumenti ed onori a sua richiesta. La costanza e la calma ch’ei dimostrò col ben ragionato rifiuto risvegliano dei sentimenti, che le parole non possono esprimere. Il Teologo, non potendo ottener nulla da una costanza, che poche possono eguagliare e niuna superare, l’attaccò per la parte del cuore; gli disse che, uniformandosi ai benevoli sentimenti del Rè, avrebbe liberato dalle carceri il Padre, la Madre, i fratelli, e le sorelle, e ottenuta la restituzione di tutti i loro beni, oltre la benevolenza del Rè, che lo stimava infinitamente, e prometteva di dargliene delle prove sorprendenti. Udita la disgrazia di tutta la sua famiglia, che ignorava intieramente, si sentì indebolire; ma presto rivenne da quel languido stupore, e confermò tranquillamente il suo rifiuto. Letta che gli fù la sentenza di morte, chiese di potere scrivere ai suoi Costituenti a Milano, e alla Madre. Gli fù concesso di scrivere alla madre. Ei si espresse in modo da far comprendere, che considerava i suoi mali come ben compensati da una tanto gloriosa morte, a confortava i suoi a consolarsene sull’istesso principio. Si sa, che la povera madre non ebbe la consolazione di leggerla, poichè la Regina, dopo che l’ebbe letta, la strappò fremendo come una tigre ferita e difrendo “c’insulta anche morendo.” La sentenza non fù eseguita, perchè il Marchese del Gallo, del quale o quell’epoca i Governo di Napoli credè di poter’aver bisogno, fece comprendere, che (seguendo un cambiamento di cose) la morte di uno protetto dal diritto della genti metterebbe in pericolo la vita di tutti quei che vi avessero cooperato. Egli aveva lasciato in vita quando fù incarcerato i Vecchi genitori, 4 sorelle nubili, la maggiore delle quali di 18 anni, e 3 fratelli uno dei quali maggiore di Lui. Il povero afflitto Padre, sentendo che l’affare del suo amato figlio prendeva cattiva piega, e che il sacrifizio, dei propi beni non potevo salvarto, scrisse al Direttorio di Parigi e di Milano, e al Governo di Spagna, pregando che impegnassero altre Potenze a interessarsi per lui. Confidò le lettere al suo primogenito, il quale, imbarcatosi per andare al suo destino, fù arrestato, incarcerato come il suo fratello, e dopo 4, o 5 mesi fatto morire, non ò potuto sapere di 318
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qual morte. Lo sconsolato Padre, messo in un carcere simile a quello dei figli, all’età di 80 anni, morì, non si sa quando, nè come. Agli altri 2 fratelli riescì di scappare. La madre, e le 4 sorelle furono incarcerate, non in sotterranei, ma separatamente in 5 diversi paesi. Erano già passati 2 anni che non vedeva la luce. Una sol volta il giorno vedeva il barbaro carceriere, poichè, per vederci egli stesso, portava necessariamente una lanterna accesa quando scendeva per gettargli un tozzo di pane, e riempirgli d’acqua una boccia. Questo fù il suo vitto per 4 anni, e i mobili un cantero e uno stramazzo pieno di paglia, in un luogo umido sotto, sopra, e nelle pareti, basso a segno da non potervi star ritto, lungo appunto quanto la sua persona e la meta largo, dove non potè mai ottenere assistenza di medico nella infermità, e neppure un cencio per levarsi d’addosso la marcia, che usciva dalle glandule delle fascie e di sotto l’ascelle, e da un tumore sul petto, che la grande umidità aveva fatto gonfiare e putrefare, e che la natura fece poi scoppiare, e finalmente guarire. Escito di carcere (mediante il trattato di pace di Firenze) 2 anni dopo la sospensione della sentenza, gli fù dato un Passaporto concepito in maniera, da metterlo in pericolo di essere assassinato dovunque doveva passare per escire dello Stato Napoletano. Eccone il principio: “Si conceda il Passaporto al reo di Stato Sigr. Don Giuseppe Timpanari, di età di 30 anni, condannato sua vita durante in un carcere nel Castello di S. Caterina” &c. Ella si ricorderà, che nella mia dei 6 xbre 1800, ragguagliandola della condotta dei Governi d’Italia, dissi: “Quel di Napoli ne à dato il primo esempio, ed è stato il più feroce.” Il fatto del Timpanari, benchè molto imperfettamente narrato, ne da sufficiente prova. In consequenza del detto insidioso passaporto ricevè frequenti insulti fino ai confini del Regno; ma ebbe la consolazione di vedere, che i cari e numerosi Amici non l’avevano mai perduto di vista. Da per tutto gli vennero vestimenti, denaro, e soccorsi d’ogni genere, senza aver mai potuto sapere d’onde procedevano, la ragione di che può arguirsi da quel che segue. Nel tempo della sua prigionia era seguito l’istesso. Nulla poteva pervenirgli, se non per mezzo del Carceriere, che riceveva sempre un buono sbrufo di denaro per il piccolo incomodo di portargliene, e per conservare il segreto. Questo scellerato non gli diede mai nulla, e accusò i donatori che tutti sparivano senza che il povero Timpanari abbia mai potuto sapere cosa ne sia stato. Ma non è da maravigliarsene; poichè non ostante tutti i possibili mezzi impiegati per aver notizie della madre e delle sorelle, non à potuto saper’altro, se non che fù resa loro la libertà mediante il trattato di Firenze. 319
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Ci vorrebbero dei volumi per narrare le accoglienze che ricevè, subito che messe i piedi sul territorio che porta il nome di Repubblica Italiana, e soprattutto in Milano, dove dai coniugi Viganò, il marito di 50 anni e le moglie di 47, persone molto rispettabili e facoltose, che non avevano avuto prole, nè potevano averne, fù adottato per figlio, ed erede. E siccome la Legge non permetteva l’adozione prima d’aver compiti i 60 anni, fù derogato in questo caso per decreto del Governo. Viveva il nostro futuro Concittadino tralle braccia e nel cuore del nuovo Padre e della nuova Madre, da Lui ben corrisposti per genio come per gratitudine, amato e stimato universalmente, sovente occupato in affari interessanti, destinato ad occupare uno dei megliori posti diplomatici, e a sposare un’amabilissima giovanetta, degna di Lui, quando un fatto inaspetatto gli fece sentire la necessità di procurarsi un’asilo negli Stati Uniti. La prima persona a cui lo comunicò, fù quella che doveva sposare. Il dolore inesprimibile non impedì a quella degna creatura, dopo molte lagnanze, di riconoscere nei di Lui sentimenti la ragionevolezza della sua risoluzione. Andò poi ad aprire il suo cuore al sopradto. Ministro del Portafoglio, di Lei fratello, amicissimo suo, giovane di sommo merito. Gli confidò, che un comune Amico loro amava la sua sorella, ed ambidue si adoprarono per disporla ad accettarlo per consorte. Molte furono le repulse; dettate da quella passione che troppo si sente e non si definisce punto; ma finalmente riescirono a persuaderla. La condotta di Melzi, riguardo a Timpanari, è stata tale in tutti i tempi, che basterebbe sola per farne ammirar la mente e adorare il cuore. Quella dei Coniugi Viganò coll’adottato figlio, al punto della separazione, non permette di tener gli occhi asciutti. Ecco la troppo succinta, e male abbozzata istoria, di questo interessantissimo soggetto, che viene a vivere e morire in Patria Libera! Le mie circostanze non mi permettono (almen per ora) d’accompagnarvelo! Tutto Suo, &c. P.S. La prego di far leggere questa lettera lugubre anche a Mr. Madison, affinchè sia informato del carattere del Latore prima di trattar con Lui. e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Pisa, 30 Aug. 1804 The bearer of the present letter is Citizen Giuseppe Timpanari Viganò, a real martyr of the republican cause in the recent past. Melzi, the minister of the portfolio of foreign affairs, as well as Citizen Tassoni, minister of the Italian Republic in Etruria, have taken a deep interest in him. It is only natural, since, as they write, “the services he performed for the Cisalpine government
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30 AUGUST 1804 caused him to receive a death sentence, which was then converted to one of incarceration in a jail in Sicily, a sentence that would have been for life, had not the Florence treaty been signed.” From what I know of him, I argue that the dreary end of a revolution, for which rivers of the most precious blood have been spilled, together with the scant hope that the weak residues of republican government that still exist in some parts of Europe will actually last, have convinced him to take refuge in the only country where one may live free from fear of the chains of despotism. This is a conjecture, but one based on elements that prove, almost geometrically, that this is the case. I have spent immense energy to gather these elements: I have written more than Paul to the Corinthians to unearth them, since very little can be extracted from his mouth. He is almost as reserved as he is modest. Melzi appreciates him, loves him, and has provided all kinds of means so that he may reach his goal. He is planning to get married in America and start working in commerce, for which he has both knowledge and funds. He is also considering to embark in some literary enterprise, since he is very learned and well-versed in the sciences. He is the carrier of various recommendation letters. I will not add one myself, since I am confident that what I have said and will say of him will bear more weight than a letter of that sort. This brilliant young man was born in Sicily of noble and wealthy parents. The good father did not mind any expense to have him educated at home and instructed in all that contributes to ennoble the human mind. At the age of 18, he received from the Prince of Caraminico, Viceroy of Sicily, a charge to establish a college in the island’s center in which the youth could be instructed in all sciences; he was also tasked with the selection of the teachers. He chose for himself the chair of natural law and law of nations, as well as the explication of the Gospels, so that he might dissolve the fogs with which our mind is obfuscated at the earliest age and lead the youth toward the truth. Though he proceeded with the highest circumspection, his views raised the suspicion of clericalism. He was accused and defended himself valiantly. The slander he suffered actually contributed to raise him even higher in the estimation of the public and the government, but ever-restless theocracy, which knows how to bend for a while without ever yielding definitively, attacked him so many more times and molested him so much that after a year he resigned and decided to leave the country. Minister Acton’s requests for him to stay were to no avail. Since his father had also had him study diplomacy, he decided to travel through various parts of Europe to see it in action. It is easy to understand how the state of things at that time must have led him first of all toward the people who held our same sentiments. He found himself in Venice during the Revolution. Worshipped by the patriots, held in esteem by the judicious and wise noblemen (among which there were several aristocrats of good faith, as you may remember was the case also in France), he made himself really useful. He probably would have stayed there, had the heinous treaty of Campoformio not ensued (on which subject, your friend here writing, who has always esteemed Atticus over Cicero, and cultivated his garden, spoke as follows): “The peace at Formio is a renewed document of the pertinacious nature of the principles ruling the vile politics of old,
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30 AUGUST 1804 the one that the French Republicans had banished in their declamations, but the Executive Directory religiously followed. In spite of the Declaration of Rights, the Aeropagus in Paris has bargained with the freedom of Venice, in the same way in which others had done with the freedom of Poland. Cadit persona, manet res. And what it is that remains! A few cunning men, leading; a crowd of simpletons, following orders.” Our Timpanari, after having visited various places in Germany and Italy, esteemed everywhere and often charged with suitable tasks, was invited to Milan by the president of the Directory in the Cisalpine Republic. Finally, he was sent as chargé d’affaires to Naples. He was received as such, but after about eight months, as soon as the news of the French fleet being defeated in Egypt became public (an occasion which emboldened that government to arrest the French minister), he was also arrested. He was detained in an underground prison in Sicily, where his situation was such as to make him desire death. To death he was eventually sentenced, when the total defeat of the French army in Italy convinced that government that they could trample all rights with impunity. A few days before he was sentenced, the king’s theologian had visited him. Under pretense of going there to hear his confession, his task was to convince him to abandon the path he had taken and write in favor of monarchic rule. He was authorized to promise any kind of compensation and privilege he may request. The calm and steadfastness he displayed in offering a well-reasoned refusal awaken in me feelings that words cannot express. Since the theologian could obtain nothing from such a rarely-equaled and neversurpassed resolution, he attacked him from the side of the heart. He told him that, should he align himself with the king’s goodwill, he would free from jail his father, mother, brothers, and sisters. In addition, he would obtain the restitution of all their property, and secure the king’s benevolence, who held him in the highest esteem and vouched to give him extraordinary attestations of that. Upon hearing about the tragedy befalling his whole family, of which he had been completely unaware, he felt weakened. He soon recovered, however, from that momentary shock and calmly reiterated his refusal. When his death sentence was read to him, he asked to be allowed to write to his constituents in Milan and to his mother. He was allowed to write to the mother. He expressed his feelings to make clear that he considered his ills well compensated by such a glorious death, and invited his relatives to reconcile themselves with the notion on the same basis. It is known that his poor mother did not have the consolation of reading the letter, since the queen, upon reading it, tore it apart, trembling like a wounded tiger, and said “he insults us even while dying.” The sentence was not carried out because the Marquise Del Gallo, whom at that time the government in Naples thought might be needed, made it understood that the death of a person protected by the law of nations would have endangered—upon a reversal of the situation—the life of all who had contributed to bring it about. When Timpanaro was jailed, his old parents, four unmarried sisters, the eldest of whom was eighteen, and three brothers, one of whom was older than himself, were still living. The poor heartbroken father, upon understanding that the matters of his beloved son were taking a bad turn and that
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30 AUGUST 1804 not even the sacrifice of his own belongings would have saved him, wrote to the Directories of Paris and Milan and to the government of Spain, entreating them to encourage other powers to take an interest in him. He entrusted the letters to his firstborn, but he, having embarked to go to his destiny, was arrested, jailed like his brother, and eventually, after four or five months, killed. I have not been able to learn how he died. The inconsolable father, locked in a similar prison as his son’s, died at the age of 80; when exactly, or where, is unknown. The other two brothers managed to escape. His mother and four sisters were also jailed, though not in dungeons, but separately in five different places. Two years had already passed since he last saw the light. Only once every day he could see the barbarous jailer, since this man, in order to see, was forced to bring a lantern when he would go down to throw him a scrap of bread and fill his bottle with water. These were his victuals for four years; the furnishings were only a chamberpot and a straw mattress, in a space with dampness everywhere—beneath, above and on the walls—so low that one could not stand in it, deep just as much as he was tall and half as wide. There he could never obtain medical assistance in sickness, not even a rag with which he could wipe off the secretions that came out of the glands in his mouth and under the armpits, as well as from a tumor on his chest that the excessive moisture had caused to swell and rot, and that nature eventually caused to burst and finally heal. Having left the prison (through the effects of the Florence peace treaty), two years after his sentence was halted, he was given a passport so conceived as to leave him vulnerable to assassination wherever he would have had to cross to leave the state of Naples. Here is the opening of it: “Passport to be given to Signore Don Giuseppe Timpanari, aged 30, a state criminal who has been condemned to life in prison in the Castle of S. Caterina,” etc. You may recall that, in my letter of 6 Dec. 1800, my account of the behavior of the governments in Italy, I wrote, “that of Naples has given the first example; and it has been the most savage one.” Albeit imperfectly narrated here, the vicissitudes of Timpanari provide sufficient proof of it. As a consequence of that insidious passport, he was frequently abused until he reached the borders of the kingdom. On the other hand, he had the consolation of seeing that his dear and many friends had never lost sight of him. He received clothing, money, and assistance of all kinds, though he was never able to know where they came from, and the reason for that may be deduced from what follows. In the time of his jailing, the same had happened. Nothing could reach him, unless it was through the jailer, who was always receiving a sizable bribe for the small inconvenience of bringing him money and keep the secret. That scum never delivered anything, and he accused the donors of it; all the money disappeared, and the poor Timpanari was never able to know what has come of it. One should not, however, really marvel at that; notwithstanding all the means he enlisted to have news of his mother and sisters, he has never been able to learn anything, beyond the fact that they had been given back their freedom through the Florence treaty. Volumes would be filled by the account of the welcoming he received as soon as he set foot on the territory that bears the name of the Italian Republic, and most of all in Milan. Here he was adopted as son and heir by the Viganòs, a very respectable and wealthy couple, the husband aged 50 and the
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30 AUGUST 1804 wife 47, who did not have children, nor could they. Since the law did not allow adoption before one had reached the age of 60, a government decree made an exception for his case. Our future fellow-citizen was living in the embrace and heart of his new father and mother, an affection he reciprocated, both on account of his nature and his gratitude. He was universally loved and esteemed, often occupied in interesting business, destined to take one of the best diplomatic posts, and to marry a most lovely young woman, worthy of him. At once, however, a new circumstance brought him to feel the need to secure asylum in the United States. The first person with whom he shared this was the one he was about to marry. Her inexpressible pain did not prevent that worthy creature, after much lament, to acknowledge in his feelings the rationality of a determination. He then moved to open his heart to the aforementioned minister of the portfolio, her brother and his dearest friend, a young man of highest merit. He confided in him that one of their common friends was in love with his sister, and both exerted themselves to make her inclined to accept him as husband. Her rebuttals were many, caused by the passion that is often too strongly felt and never defined, but they finally were successful in convincing her. Melzi’s behavior with respect to Timpanari has constantly been such that it would alone suffice to make his mind admired and his heart revered; that of the Viganòs with their adopted son, at the time of separation, was such as to not allow anyone to keep their eyes dry. Here, in sum, you have the all-too-succinct and poorly sketched history of this most interesting person, who is coming to live and die in a free country! My current situation does not allow me to accompany him there, at least not at this time! Entirely yours, etc. P.S. I beg you to have this somber letter be read also by Mr. Madison, so that he may be informed of the personality of its bearer before he deals with him. Lb (Archivio Filippo Mazzei, Pisa, Italy); see Margherita Marchione and Barbara B. Oberg, eds., Philip Mazzei: The Comprehensive Microform Edition of his Papers, 9 reels [Millwood, N.Y., 1981], 5:593-6; note added by Mazzei at head of text: “N.B. L’inclusa lettera della Madre adottiva del Timpanari mi pervenne dopo la di Lui partenza da Livorno” (Editors’ translation: “N.B. The letter contained within from Mr. Timpanari’s adoptive mother reached me after he had left from Livorno”; see note below). Dft (Archivio Filippo Mazzei, Pisa, Italy); canceled. Recorded in SJL as received 2 Nov. 1805. At the foot of the text of the letter, separated from it by a dashed line, Mazzei made the notation: “Il Timpanari stiede in casa mia fino al giorno dell’imbarco. La sua madre adottiva (che era bravissima
Pittrice in miniatura) gli mandò il ritratto di Melzi e il suo proprio in uno scatolino alla Dogana di Firenze, che per isbaglio fù portato a quella di Livorno. Lo condussi meco a Livorno, e mentre faceva ricerca dello scatolino andai ad abbracciare il Direttor Mugnai mio carmo. Amico. Al ritorno Lo trovai cogli occhi lagrimosi baciando il ritratto di sua madre. Segui l’istesso a me, che ne sapevo già l’angelico carattere. Pochi giorni dopo la di Lui partenza ricevei da Lei l’inclusa lettera di ringraziamento” (Editors’ translation: “Timpanari remained a guest in my house until the day on which he embarked. His adoptive mother, who was an extremely skilled miniaturist, sent him Melzi’s portrait along with her own, in a little box at the custom house of Florence, which was by mistake brought to that of Leghorn. I took him with me to Leghorn, and while
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31 AUGUST 1804 he was searching for the little box, I went to embrace Director Mugnai, a dearest friend of mine. Upon my return, I found him kissing with teary eyes the portrait of his mother. The same happened to me, who already knew his angelic nature. A few days after his departure, I received from her the thank-you letter contained within.” The letter was likely Giuseppa Viganò to Mazzei, 11 Sep., from Milan, thanking Mazzei for the kindness he and his wife showed to her adopted son (Margherita Marchione and Barbara B. Oberg,
eds., Philip Mazzei: Selected Writings and Correspondence, 3 vols. [Prato, Italy, 1983], 3:352). cadit persona, manet res: Mazzei quoted a version of Lucretius, De natura rerum, 3.58, which translates as “the mask falls, the thing itself remains.” France and the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies agreed to a treaty of peace at Florence (il trattato di pace di firenze) in March 1801 (Parry, Consolidated Treaty Series, 56:53-6).
From Sylvanus Bourne Sir— Amn Consulate Amsterdam Augt 31 1804 I have the honor to send you inclosed a letter just recd from Mr Christopher Winckelbech of Basle—I presume it refers to the desire which many of his Countrymen possess of emigrating to the U States & on which subject I have lately made several communications to the Secretary of State—Should our Govt be disposed to make any arrangements for facilitating said emigrations I think that I might be able to send on in course of next years some thousands of a race of people who from their habits of industry & purity of manners would become a valuable acquisition towards populating the still unsettled regions of our extensive country— I have the honor to with the highest respect Yr Ob Sevt S. Bourne RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the U States Washington”; endorsed by TJ as received 2 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Christophe Winckelblech to TJ, 20 Aug.
From Elizabeth House Trist My Hond and Dear Friend Orleans 31st august 1804 A more wretched being never address’d you two days since My Son, my support, my protector, my all in life, was wrested from me as unexpected as sudden five days Illness and as we supposed as did also the Physisian with only a bilious fever common to the country two hours before his death had we any apprehensions of his being in danger tho the Docters for a day or two before prunounced his disease a 325
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yellow fever of the worst kind but not to us)—God only knows if the Malady will cease with him as no precautions were used and we were all in his embraces in his last moments, the agitation of my mind is too great to write but the necessity of the case requires it, Inscrutable are the ways of providence a few days since every thing wore a bright aspect my Son in a situation that flatterd us with hope of his making a provison for his children beside supporting his family in Comfort, all is gone his Office as yet has afforded him no more than has brought us here and established us in House keeping we know not what he has in England on the score of his affairs he was never communicative but here there is nothing—I believe he left a will in Mr Randolphs hands before he left Virginia His family have only now to look up to Wm Brown I never thought I shou’d ever have to solicit You in our behalf I intreat for Wm Brown to supply the vacancy that my beloved son has occasion’d. his capability and integrity is equal to any Seven Years he has been in that line owing to his knowledge has my son ben enabled to arange the business of the Office. helpless and miserable as we are I shou’d feel a consolation in knowing his Wife and children wou’d experience no Ills from poverty I can say no more than God bless you E, Trist Henry Brown is just taken down with a violent fever Oh God when will it end RC (NcU: Nicholas Philip Trist Papers); endorsed by TJ as received 9 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Possibly enclosed in John M. Gelston to TJ, 1 Sep.
henry brown had previously been ill with fever in the spring, delaying the Trist family’s depature for New Orleans; see Trist to TJ, 11 Apr.
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, New-Orleans 1st. September 1804 Having been informed that Doctor John Watkins had declined the appointment of Surgeon to the garrison of New Orleans, permit me to name to you Doctor Oliver H. Spencer as qualified in the opinion of those who know him to fill that Station. Doctor Spencer is a young man of promising talents: his skill, industry and attention in the practise of medecine and his amiable deportment in private life have procured him a high place in the esteem of the Society of New-Orleans.—He has for some time past acted as Surgeon pro-tempore to the garrison, and I learn has acquired the affections and confidence of the troops. 326
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yellow fever of the worst kind but not to us)—God only knows if the Malady will cease with him as no precautions were used and we were all in his embraces in his last moments, the agitation of my mind is too great to write but the necessity of the case requires it, Inscrutable are the ways of providence a few days since every thing wore a bright aspect my Son in a situation that flatterd us with hope of his making a provison for his children beside supporting his family in Comfort, all is gone his Office as yet has afforded him no more than has brought us here and established us in House keeping we know not what he has in England on the score of his affairs he was never communicative but here there is nothing—I believe he left a will in Mr Randolphs hands before he left Virginia His family have only now to look up to Wm Brown I never thought I shou’d ever have to solicit You in our behalf I intreat for Wm Brown to supply the vacancy that my beloved son has occasion’d. his capability and integrity is equal to any Seven Years he has been in that line owing to his knowledge has my son ben enabled to arange the business of the Office. helpless and miserable as we are I shou’d feel a consolation in knowing his Wife and children wou’d experience no Ills from poverty I can say no more than God bless you E, Trist Henry Brown is just taken down with a violent fever Oh God when will it end RC (NcU: Nicholas Philip Trist Papers); endorsed by TJ as received 9 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Possibly enclosed in John M. Gelston to TJ, 1 Sep.
henry brown had previously been ill with fever in the spring, delaying the Trist family’s depature for New Orleans; see Trist to TJ, 11 Apr.
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, New-Orleans 1st. September 1804 Having been informed that Doctor John Watkins had declined the appointment of Surgeon to the garrison of New Orleans, permit me to name to you Doctor Oliver H. Spencer as qualified in the opinion of those who know him to fill that Station. Doctor Spencer is a young man of promising talents: his skill, industry and attention in the practise of medecine and his amiable deportment in private life have procured him a high place in the esteem of the Society of New-Orleans.—He has for some time past acted as Surgeon pro-tempore to the garrison, and I learn has acquired the affections and confidence of the troops. 326
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I have the honor to be, with Sentiments of the highest esteem and respect! Your most obdt. Servt. William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); in Joseph Briggs’s hand, signed by Claiborne; at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Oct. and “Spencer to be Surgeon at N.O.” and so recorded in SJL.
For Claiborne’s earlier recommendation of oliver h. spencer, see Hore Browse Trist to TJ, 2 June.
To Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Monticello. Sep. 1. 04. I am just returned from a visit to mr Madison whom I went to consult on certain matters. I communicated to him the papers from Simpson & Gelston inclosed to me in yours of Aug. 20. and which I now reinclose to you. we are both satisfied with Simpson’s refusal to enter the guns of a vessel as part of her description in her clearance, and if you are of our opinion we think it would be well to instruct all the Collectors to discontinue it. I know of no law requiring it, and it seems to give the countenance of the government to the practice instead of shewing it’s disapprobation which is our true sentiment. with respect to the Eugenia, if the retaking her be considered as the act of the revenue officer it was lawful as an arrest, & the irregularity of setting the officers ashore is too small to need an apology; if it be considered as a rescue by the master we have nothing to do with it. the capturing neutral vessels on suspicion of enemy property on board is an act of force, and it behoves the Captors to employ a sufficient force, as the neutral is not bound to lend a hand; but on the contrary is restrained by his neutrality from all supplementary aid to either party.—on the opinion you give as to Dickerson I abandon that idea but still wishing the aid of a good lawyer, & rather that he should be from Pensylvania, I ask the favor of you to enquire fully into the legal knolege, judgment & moral & social character of Levy. we must have none but a good humoured man.—I have further recommendations of Isaac Neufville so that I believe I shall fill up the commission with his name, tho’ it is a bad example, & leads to family property in an office. after waiting to the 12th. hour to get all the information I could respecting the government of Orleans, I have, on consultation with mr Madison, sent on the commissions by the mail which left Charlottesville yesterday morning for the Westward. it is very much what had been approved by the heads of 327
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departments separately & provisionally, with a few alterations shewn to be proper by subsequent information. it is as follows. Governor. Claiborne. Secretary. James Brown. Judges. of Supr. Ct. Kirby, Prevost & Pinckney or Williams. Judges. of District. Hall. Attorney. Dickerson Marshal. Urquhart, or Clouet, or Guillot or any native Frenchman Claiborne prefers. Legislative council. Morgan, Watkins, Clarke, Jones, Roman & Wikoff certain. Dow, or George Pollock as Claiborne chuses. Boré, Poydrass & Bellechasse certain & any three which Claiborne may chuse of these five towit Derbigné, Detrehan, Dubuys, Cantarelle, Sauvé. It will be necessary for us to consider of a gradation of peaceable measures which may coerce the belligerent powers1 into an obedience to the laws within our waters, so as to avoid using the gunboats if possible. a non-intercourse law may be necessary. but would not the power to forbid the admitting to entry any vessel of a belligerent2 so long as there should be an armed vessel of the nation in our waters in a state of disobedience to the laws or lawful orders of the Executive3 be effectual? making it lawful for us at the same time to give admittance to the armed vessels of a belligerent on such terms only as we should prescribe. these things should be considered and agreed on among ourselves and suggested to our friends. I salute you with affection & respect. Th: Jefferson P.S. I shall be in Washington by the last day of the month. RC (NHi: Gallatin Papers); at foot of first page: “The Secretary of the Treasury.” PoC (DLC); emendations made separately on RC and PoC (see notes 1-3). Notation in SJL: “Simpson. Gelston. Eugenia. Dickerson. Levy. Neufville. N.O. arrangemts.” simpson: that is, James Simons, the collector at Charleston, South Carolina (Vol. 40:553n). His letter to Gallatin, enclosed in Gallatin to TJ, 20 Aug., has not been found. The papers from David gelston probably refer to Enclosures No. 2 and No. 3 listed at the same letter (see also TJ to Gallatin, 20 Dec. 1805).
Philadelphia attorney Samson levy had been recommended to TJ in 1802 for an appointment as bankruptcy commissioner (Vol. 37:353; Vol. 38:120n). recommendations of isaac neuf ville: a letter from Adam Gilchrist to Wade Hampton, dated Charleston, 1 Aug., recommended Isaac Neufville to succeed his deceased father as commissioner of loans for South Carolina, noting that his “Talents and integrity” had procured him a situation at Gilchrist’s bank. Gilchrist hoped that Hampton would recommend Neufville’s appointment to the president, which would gratify the public “in finding the Revolutionary merits of this
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1 SEPTEMBER 1804 family still remembered.” In a notation of 11 Aug. added to Gilchrist’s letter, Hampton wrote: “Mr. Gilchrist is President of the Branch Bank of the US. in Charleston. He is a federalist, of the first grade. It is however due to him, to state, that in Private life he is liberal in his Sentiments, and extremely friendly in his habits. And it is Evident that party has been perfectly out of the question when he wrote this letter. I have had little communication with the Neufville Family, but have Ever understood them to be, without exception, republican. No man in the state was Ever more respected than the Deceased. The son could not have been more than twenty years of age, when his Father was
first appointed to the Office in question. Since that time, it has been, as I have always understood, Principly conducted by the Son. I have never heard his talents, or Character called in question. W.H.” (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Neufville Isaac to be Commr. loans Charleston”). A letter from Hampton dated Charleston, 1 Aug., is recorded in SJL as received on 28 Aug. 1 Preceding three words interlined in place of “Gr. Britain.” 2 TJ first wrote “any British vessel” before altering the text to read as above. 3 Remainder of sentence interlined.
From John M. Gelston Sir, New Orleans 1st. September 1804 The enclosed letter will inform you of the death of my affectionate friend H B. Trist, and the petition accompanying this I have taken the liberty to send to you, in the hope that the motive which prompts me to this step, will be considered by you as a sufficient apology for the impropriety of my addressing you. As I had myself an opportunity of judging the real sentiments of the signers of the representation, I am enabled to say that it expresses no more than their ardent wishes; and it would not become me to say more to you. I have the honor to be, with the most perfect respect your very obedient servant Jno. M Gelston RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Ths. Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Oct. and “Brown Wm. to be Collector v. Trist” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: possibly Elizabeth House Trist to TJ, 31 Aug. Other enclosure printed below. John M. Gelston, who died from fever a couple of weeks after sending this mes-
sage, had recently moved from New York City to New Orleans, where he established a commission business. The son of David Gelston, he was friends with Meriwether Lewis and performed secretarial duties for James Monroe when Monroe was minister to France (New York American Citizen, 26 Oct.; Monroe, Papers, 3:60; Jackson, Lewis and Clark, 2:738; William C. C. Claiborne to TJ, 18 Sep.).
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Memorial from New Orleans Merchants To Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States, [on or before 1 Sep. 1804] The subscribers, merchants, traders, and others, of the City of New Orleans, respectfully represent, That the United States, having lately by the death of Hore Browse Trist Esquire, late collector of this district, lost an active, upright, and capable officer, they beg leave to recommend William Brown as his successor in the said office. Mr. Brown having since the establishment of a Custom House for the United States at this place, officiated as Deputy Collector, the subscribers have had an opportunity of witnessing his capability and diligence in performing the duties of the office; and in offering this testimonial in favor of a near connection of the deceased, persuade themselves that they may unite the gratification of their private feelings, with considerations of public good. RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR, 1:1190-3); undated; in John M. Gelston’s hand, signed by Benjamin Morgan, Joseph Faurie, Francis Duplessis, Paul Lanusse, George Pollock, James Pitot, Jean Fran-
çois Merieult, Eugene Dorsière, Geromo La Chiapella, Benjamin Tupper, John Watkins, Edward Livingston, and 59 others; endorsed by TJ: “Brown William to be Collector N.O.”).
From Isaac Jefferson of Boston Saturday Morng.
Most respected Sir September 1. 1804 Boston The liberty I take I hope your goodness will overloock I have been a subject, formerly to his Britanick Majesty & became a freeman of the city of London—when I found your honor elected over the States of America I had always an anxious desire of coming to this Country on account of your name I have remained in this town somewhat better than two years & am partial to the mild Government you are at the head of As I am determined to pass the remainder of my days in these parts—I am not destitute I have a decent competence with care as I occupy a store in preparing seamens apparel—I would be happy to solicit a favor as you are always fitting out Vessels for sea—for a contract for Seamens Clothing—As for a good recommendation I can procure from the Old Country or from the merchants of this town since I have remained here—It is my sincere wish for your long life to hold the reigns of Government 330
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If this should meet with the smallest share of your approbation a line from your honor to N 26 Middle street would unspeakably oblidge— Your sincere Humble Servant Isaack Jefferson RC (DLC); at head of text: “Mr T Jefferson President of the united States”; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. Dupl (same); dated 6 Oct.; at head of text: “To his Excellency Thomas Jefferson”; signed “Isaac Jefferson”; at foot of text: “A duplicate”; endorsed by TJ as received 14 Oct., but recorded in SJL under 13 Oct. Isaac Jefferson was born in northern Ireland and resided in London before emigrating to the United States. After his re-
quest to TJ for a contract went unanswered, he tried again in 1805 with no better success. Jefferson advertised himself as a retailer in an 1806 Boston directory and later as running a slop shop (The Boston Directory; Containing the Names of the Inhabitants, Their Occupations, Places of Business, and Dwelling-Houses [Boston, 1806], 73; Boston Directory [Boston, 1818], 129; Boston Directory [Boston, 1826], 162; New-York Evening Post, 27 Apr. 1825; Jefferson to TJ, 28 Feb. 1805).
From Thomas Appleton Sir Leghorn 2nd. September 1804. If I were solicited by a person of less respectability than Mr. Melzi Vice: President of the italian republic, through the medium of his minister Mr. Tassoni near the court of florence, be assured Sir I should not have taken on myself the liberty of presenting to you the bearer Mr. Giuseppe Timpanari Vigano, however highly I may esteem the qualities with which he seems so eminently endowed.—The inclos’d copy of a letter to me from Mr. Tassoni will I hope appear to you a sufficient reason for my thus complying with his request.—The views of Mr. Vigano in going to america seem to be in some measure commercial, but I am likewise inclin’d to believe, that he may be charg’d to intimate to you, the satisfaction Mr. Melzi would receive if there were some accredited Agent from the U: states near the italian republic.—at least Sir, this appears to me to be the object contemplated by his government, I have therefore thought it my duty to express my opinion of the motive of Mr. Melzi, at the same time that I make known to you the desire he has testifyed that this gentleman may be presented to your favor.—some time since I requested a friend in Malta to send me a small quantity of the yellow Cotton: seed of that island, which having very lately received, I have desir’d Mr. Vigano to deliver into your hands.—The cloth that is made from this cotton is in high estimation, inasmuch as it preserves its colour how often soever it may be wash’d, an evident advantage it has over the 331
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nankeens of China. from a person of much intelligence of the island, I am inform’d that the seeds are there planted in the beginning of August, and the cotton is at its maturity in the month of December.— It is usual to put two or three grains in a hole of as many inches deep, and when four leaves appear above the surface of the earth, it is necessary they should be rooted out, and transplanted seperately, a foot and a half asunder; while care must be taken that they are water’d morning and evening.—It is most probable Sir, that this little detail may be superfluous, but as I am totally uninform’d if this species of shrub: cotton: tree is produc’d in the U: States, I have ventur’d to mention the mode of cultivation, observ’d by the natives of Malta, the only spot where it grows in this part of the world.—As Madame Cerrachi yet remains in Germany, I have not been able to communicate to her that part of your letter relative to her husband.—I have the honor to be with the highest respect your most devoted Servant.— Th: Appleton Dupl (DLC); at head of text: “Copy”; at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson esq. President of the U: States of America Washington”; endorsed by TJ as received 28 Oct. 1805 and so recorded in SJL. FC (Lb in DNA: RG 84, CR, Leghorn); notation: “sent by Mr. Vigano who Sailed in the Schooner John Adams. Capt. Ramsdell. the 6th. of Septr. 1804.” Enclosure
not found (see below). Enclosed in Appleton to TJ, 6 July 1805. deliver into your hands: Giuseppe Timpanari Viganò was lost at sea, so TJ did not receive the cotton sample (Appleton to TJ, 6 July 1805). your letter: Vol. 40:657-9.
To John Barnes Dear Sir Monticello. Sep. 2. 04. Your favors of Aug. 7. & 21. came to hand in due time. from them I collect the following estimate of my funds, since my departure
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1804 July 21. paid Williams of Phila 23. Baker Gant Andrews Hand Butler Coxe Dyer Burford Aug. 7. Gibson & Jeff. Lemaire Th:J. 10. Short 10. Jones & Howell Peale Donath Hart Jones & Kain 14. Wanscher 15. Carpenter 21. Gibson & Jeff
71.87 Aug. 4. Salary for July 2083.33 406. Note discounted 989.50 43.75 Sep. 4. Salary for Aug 2083.33 36.80 Note discounted 989.50 2.37 6145.67 7.58 3225.54 17.66 in bank 2920.13 27. 46. Paiments to be made 800. to bank US 1000. 300. Columbia 1000. 250. Wanscher ord. Aug. 20. 500. Lemaire 300. 249.33 to be now remitted to me 250. 2570. 50. will remain 350.13 19.45 30. 28 14.50 75.23 250. 3225.54
2 SEPTEMBER 1804
On this view of the subject I must pray you after paying Wanscher & Lemaire’s sums to remit me immediately 250. D. in bills of the bank US. and as there will not remain enough for mr Short’s remittance, and I have further indispensable calls here towards the end of the month, we must retain it, & remit to him the next month. Lenox’s must also wait till then & the rather as I have no notice yet that his work is done. We shall be happy to see you here and to have your visit lengthened as much as you can. drop me a line the post before your setting out, and my servant who goes always for my mail to Milton, shall carry a horse for you. It will save you 2½ miles in 5. and of the very worst road of the whole. I salute you with affection & best wishes. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); TJ arranged the financial statement in two columns, one for the payments already made and the other for credits and payments not yet made; at foot of text: “Mr. Barnes.”
John Barnes’s favor of 7 aug. has not been found (see Appendix iv).
From Isaac Briggs Clarks borough in Georgia
My Dear Friend, 2d of the 9th. mo. 1804. Attending to the necessary observations under the frequent interruption of clouds—keeping a regular series of notes—& the rest absolutely requisite to repair the fatigues of travelling in weather so extremely hot as we have had it—have prevented us from making a more rapid progress on our journey, & have compelled me to be a much less attentive Correspondent than I expected or intended to have been. By our reckoning, Franklin C. H. is five hundred & sixty seven miles from the City of Washington, & the arch of a great circle from thence to New Orleans about 475 miles. In order to obtain some important information from General Meriwether respecting our rout, we are here about 20 miles to the left of our course. In consequence of the labour of making astronomical observations & of the hot weather. I have found this I think, both to body & mind, the most fatiguing journey I ever undertook.—However if I shall be so fortunate as to give satisfaction to my friend, the President, it will be a rich reward. Accep Assurances &c &c. Isaac Briggs 334
2 SEPTEMBER 1804 Tr (DNA: RG 233, PM, 8th Cong., 2d sess.); in Isaac A. Coles’s hand, except “The President of the US.” at foot of text and Briggs’s signature are in TJ’s hand; enclosed in TJ to the House of Representatives, 1 Feb. 1805. FC (MdHi); in
Thomas Robertson’s hand (see Briggs to TJ, 2 Oct.). Recorded in SJL as received 1 Oct. less attentive correspondent: Briggs’s last letter to TJ was on 28 May.
From Gideon Granger Dear Sir. Suffield Sept: 2d. 1804. I had the honor to receive yours of the 7th. Ulto. inclosing Mr. Stewards Letter to the Secretary of State. I feel myself unable to go into a detailed Statemt of the business as I cannot resort to the files and documents of the Genl. Post Office. I have therefore directed the Assistant Postmaster Genl. to State the business at large so that you, Sir, will be enabled to judge whether my conduct merits censure or praise and I content myself with simply stating that I beleive it in truth is not a question respecting the mails, but the new line of Stages which the Gentlemen are very desirous should run through Little York; which arangemt would have been equally pleasing to me had it been practicable. I have just returned from a Journey in which I designed to have visited Providence but was obliged to return on account of the feeble state of my wife. This explains the delay of this Answer. I am now on the point of taking my Seat in the Stage for Providence with refference to the object in your Letter. In a few days I trust I shall be able to write to you Satisfactorily on that Subject. A few words as to Politics. The Election for members of Congress in New Hampshire is past—The issue unknown. I lately conversed with Nicholas Gilman who is perfectly confident of Our success both in members of Congress and Electors. But I must observe the returns which I have seen appear to me a little alarming. The exertions of the federalists throughout New England are really astonishing. Our friends in Massachusetts are in the highest Spirits, for once well united and organized, they move in a solid Phalanx. There are at least some hopes of Success in our electoral Ticket— In Connecticut the Republicans are more severely treated than any where else, and on their part strike bolder Strokes. The Inclosed will inform you of the measure by them resorted to with a view to prostrate the faction. My former friend Mr: Ellsworth has taken open and active ground. He must abide by the Consequences; a part of which I presume will 335
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be unpleasant. He has even descended to be the Instrumt. of party to circulate the Courant under feigned pretences— Your Sincere friend Gidn Granger RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 11 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: probably a printed copy of an “Address to the People of the State of Connecticut,” read and accepted at a 29 Aug. meeting at New Haven of delegates from 97 towns in the state, chaired by William Judd, calling for the creation of a state constitution; Connecticut still recognizes the charter issued by Charles II as the basis of its government, and the address condemns Federalist leaders for denying the “people” the opportunity of forming a constitution, the creation of which, “without any influence of party,” is regarded as “essential to political safety”; the meeting ordered 10,000 copies of the address printed and distributed (Shaw-Shoemaker, No. 6151; “Timothy Scrape” to TJ, 2 Sep.).
yours of the 7th. ulto.: TJ’s letter to Granger of 7 Aug. is recorded in SJL, but has not been found. For John Stewart’s 23 July letter to Madison, see Madison to TJ, 4 Aug., Enclosure No. 11. directed the assistant postmas ter genl.: see Abraham Bradley, Jr., to TJ, 13 Sep. An article signed “Detector,” printed in the 23 Aug. edition of the American Mercury, condemned Oliver ellsworth for circulating copies of the Connecticut Courant, an ardently Federalist newspaper, “under the specious, the false pretence of communicating to his neighbors useful agricultural information.”
From Nathaniel Macon Sir Buck Spring 2 Septr. 1804 Our Elections are over, and at the next Congress N.C. will be unanimous on the Republican side; McFarland who last winter contested the seat of Purviance is elected; in the district where they live, was the only federal candidate in the State The claim of the heirs of Lord Granville has made a good deal of noise, but that now begins to abate, people seem to care very little about it at present, In this neighborhood crops are very sorry, in June too much rain, in July & August too little, Though the county will make enough for its own consumption I expect, In some neighborhoods they have tolerable crops. American politics scarcely ever mentioned, nearly all seem to be satisfied; The conduct of the belligerent nations on sea to our vessels is not quite so satisfactory; But neutrals will always in some degree be damaged by the powers at War—and the U.S will I hope for ever be neutral, The triffling injury is not to be compared, with the advantage of the neutral situation, and of peace; It is to be expected some 336
2 SEPTEMBER 1804
of our merchants will venture in illicit trade, and these will make the most noise if they do not succeed I know full well that the executive is held responsible for appointments, and this may be a reason, for appointing members of Congress, but it is a truth, that people do not like to see so many appointments made from that body, I mention this, because it may be possible your other friends may not have done so, and because I believe you ought to be informed of it, You will I know place it to its true motive; I am Sir, with sincere esteem, yr. most obt sert Nathl Macon RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 11 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. For the unsuccessful attempt by North Carolina Republican Duncan mcfar land to contest the congressional seat won in 1803 by Federalist Samuel D. purviance, see Vol. 41:600n. Purviance did not stand for reelection in 1804 and McFarland won the seat against the only
Federalist candidate for Congress in the state, William Martin (Delbert Harold Gilpatrick, Jeffersonian Democracy in North Carolina, 1789-1816 [New York, 1931], 169-71, 241-4; Richmond Virginia Argus, 1 Sep.). claim of the heirs of lord gran ville: see Rolfe Eldridge to TJ, 14 Feb. 1803 (Vol. 39:513-14).
From “Timothy Scrape” New Haven,
Most high, and mighty Sir 2nd: September 1804 Convinced that you have the Interests of the Republican Party always near your Heart; and that you to the utmost of your abillities strive to promote their power, I have taken the Liberty of sending to you a copy of the Constitution, which the Delegates of ninety seven towns in Connecticut (all true, genuine Republicans) have formed, for this State. Our Intentions are, to revolutionise this State, in order that our party may have more influence, for I am Sorry to say, that at present they have little, or none of any Consiquence. you cannot help knowing, that the People in general in this State are much opposed to our proceedings, this Constitution will entirely do away all this, and if it does not, the People will have to submit, whether they wish to, or n[ot.] beleive me Sir that we will at last overturn this State that She is fast falling into our hands; and that very soon we will have her at our own disposal. May that Being whome you adore, give you a reward worthy your merrits, I am Most mighty Sir your humble, & most obedient adorer, Timothy Scrape 337
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be so good as to excuse my bad writing, being only a justice of the Peace, to which office, I was raised from the humble occupation of a Chimney Sweeper, for saying in a dram shop that you never in your life told a lie. RC (DLC); torn; endorsed by TJ as an anonymous letter received on 6 Sep. and “Stuff” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found, but see below. No state constitution was produced at the 29 Aug. meeting of Republican del egates (Gideon Granger to TJ, 2 Sep). much opposed: the Republican gathering, and its printed attack on state government, caused a backlash of criticism among Federalists. The town of Southington declared that it had not sent a delegate to the convention and called the proceedings “hostile to the rights and privileges of the people of this state.” The Connecticut Gazette claimed that the convention address had been written beforehand by Pierpont Edwards, who then ordered Republicans around the state to call on him at New Haven, agree without question that the address “was very charming,” and depart “joyfully home, to tell the wonders they had seen and heard, and to spread Mr. Edwards’ address among their neighbors.” The governor sent a message to the legislature admonishing the address, in particular its repudiation of the current state constitution, and asked that justices of the peace William Judd, Jabez H. Tom-
linson, Agur Judson, Hezekiah Goodrich, and Nathaniel Manning be removed from office for their involvement. The legislature tried the justices on 30 Oct. and revoked their commissions (Hartford Connecticut Courant, 3 Oct.; New London Connecticut Gazette, 12 Sep. and 31 Oct; Windham Herald, 8 Nov.). The author’s pseudonym and his hum ble occupation most likely stemmed from comments made by Abraham Bishop during his 11 May oration berating Connecticut’s Federalist government. In his speech, Bishop spoke of the biased opinions of state judges whose livelihoods were dependent on the influence of certain key Federalists. The fear of job loss was appreciable for superior judges and those “humble beings” in the county and probate courts, Bishop argued, but worse for the “dependant dust and ashes, which in the form of justices are exercising a seven dollar jurisdiction throughout the state” (Abraham Bishop, Oration, in Honor of the Election of President Jefferson [New Haven, 1804; Shaw-Shoemaker, No. 5881], 11). See also the New-England Palladium, 21 Sep., for a fictional “New Constitution for Connecticut,” which mocked both Bishop’s speech and the 29 Aug. address.
From John Sibley Sir, Natchitoches Septr. 2nd. 1804.— I could not excuse myselfe from any other Consideration than a desire to honestly communicate some Truths, for intruding this letter upon you, that might not through Any other Channell reach you It is true (with few exceptions only) that The United States Officers in Louissiana who have been invested with Civil & Military Jurisdictions, acting as Commedants in the Several districts are not well Attached to the Present executive of the United States And that in the Capacities they have severally occupied their own politicks have been diffused Amongst the Inhabitants of Louissiana, who now begin to think, to abuse the President and Executive of the United States is 338
2 SEPTEMBER 1804
the way to get into Office and the Road to honour, and that those who are friends of the executive are in Danger of being Neglected.— It is true that a deranged Officer at this Post said to be a favourite of the Commanding Officer Enjoys the Exclusive priviledge of Supplying the Garreson with all Necessaries at an extravagant rate, And Likewise the exclusive Priviledge of Trading with the Indians of the Vicinity Including the Caddoques at the Same time this Officer is in the Constant habit of abusing the President of the United States, and the Present Executive in the most Vulgar & approbious Epithets, and that Such Language & expressions Cannot fail to have great & evil impressions not Only amongst the Inhabitants but amongst the Savages, and that early and first impressions are not easily eradicated. It is Likewise true that a Company of Indian Traders who have all been Citizens of the United States & Some of them now, are Carrying on A Very extensive Indian trade, through this place Under the Auspices of a Spanish Officer, who Commands at Nacgadoches the Next Spanish Post, with Not less than Thirty or Forty Thousand Indians who live On the Waters of Red River and should be Supplied from a Post on this River, under the Protection of the United States and that this Company and the Spanish Officer at their head through the medium of this trade do all in their Power to Excite in the minds of the Indians Ill will & hatred towards the United States, and that was this trade Carried on through its Proper Channel all these Indians might be our friends wheras now we are in great Danger through evil machinations of having them all Our enemies, this remark Applies Particularly to the Panis and Hietan’s, the former lives on the Banks of Red River about four hundred Miles from this place by Land, & double that distance by Water, the Hietans have no fixed place of abode, but live Generally on the Waters of Red River and are very Numerous.— Considerable discontent prevails throughout Louissiana On Account of the Law for the Government & division of the province— Our Neighbours the Spaniards treat us as though we were in Actual War with them they have Published a Royal decree, declaring that all Negroes Obsconding from Any Part of the United States on their Arrival in the dominion of his Catholic Majesty Shall have Protection & freedome; No American Citizen Can be permitted to Settle Amongst them, If Any go there on Business, their Private Baggage is overhauld and letters broke Open and Examined, & they Permit no Property to be brought out, or people who live in the United States or in Louissiana to go there & Collect debts. I am Sir with the greatest respect & Esteem Your Most devoted Hble Servt. John Sibley 339
2 SEPTEMBER 1804 RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson esqr. President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 31 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. A deranged officer was one who had been displaced from his position (oed). The American commanding officer at Natchitoches was Captain Edward D. Turner (Terr. Papers, 9:238-9). company of indian traders: the business partnership of Edward Murphy, Luther Smith, William Barr, and Samuel Davenport. Murphy was based in Natchitoches, while the latter two were based in Nacogdoches. Spanish authorities in Texas granted the firm exclusive trading privileges with Indians in the area. At this time, the commandant at Nacogdoches was José Joachín Ugarte (David La Vere, “Edward Murphy: Irish Entrepreneur in
Spanish Natchitoches,” Louisiana History, 32 [1991], 382-7; Ron Tyler, ed., The New Handbook of Texas, 6 vols. [Austin, 1996], 6:617). hietans: that is, the Comanches (Sturtevant, Handbook, 13, pt. 2:903). Sibley received from Samuel Davenport an account of the royal decree, apparently the selectively enforced order of 1789 concerning runaway slaves. Davenport indicated that Ugarte had showed him the act and expressed “his intentions of executing it.” Davenport’s letter made its way to William C. C. Claiborne, who forwarded it to Madison (Davenport to Sibley, 3 Aug., in DNA: RG 59, TP, Orleans; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:9-10; Isaac Joslin Cox, “The LouisianaTexas Frontier, II,” Southwestern Historical Quarterly, 17 [1913], 37-41; Madison to TJ, 8 Sep.).
From Gabriel Duvall Treasury Department, Comptroller’s Office,
Dear Sir, September 3d. 1804. The Secretary of the Treasury having acquainted me that it is your intention to send a commission from Monticello to the person whom You shall appoint Commissioner of Loans for the State of South Carolina, I have, at the request of the Secretary, to prevent delay, sent under cover a letter, with the usual instructions to the Commissioner to be appointed; & also an official bond, in blank, to be executed by him; accompanied by a letter, as usual, to the representatives of the deceased officer to deliver over all the public property in their possession to the Officer appointed to receive them. Will You be obliging enough to fill up the blanks, before you forward the letters? I have the honour to be, with very great respect & esteem your obedt. Sevt. G. Duvall. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The president of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 6 Sep and “Neufville” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures not found.
For Gallatin’s request to Duvall and his concerns about a delay in the appointment, see Gallatin to TJ, 20 and 30 Aug.
340
From Robert Smith Sir, Balt. Sep. 3. 1804 You will herewith receive Capt Truxton’s letter.—Of all the improprieties which folly & insolence have lately exhibited this letter is surely to be classed among the most exceptionable. But what must this man’s ideas of decorum be, when in this grossly disrespectful letter he can assert “that nothing like disrespect is intended” and what must be his ideas of the dignity of government in expecting that we would make to him any persuasive explanations to induce him to suppress the publication of his vindication. Let him put forth his whining Complaints and a plain tale will set him down. With respect to George Harrison’s case, it is proper to inform you that as Navy Agent he had until lately the charge of the Navy Stores at Philada without any additional pay. About the close of the last session of Congress an application was made to me by Mr. Gregg and other members of Congress to make Genl Irwin the Store keeper of the Navy Stores. This application was enforced by Mr. Gallatin & Genl Dearborn upon the ground that his Salary was too low. After much consideration this new appointment was given to Genl Irwin with a Salary of Six Hundred Dollars Year. Upon his death George Harrison was directed by me to resume the charge of the stores as heretofore until otherwise ordered—that is without pay of any kind. It was my opinion I ought to reserve the case for consideration after we again assembled. If it shall be deemed expedient to continue this new appointment, it will be a matter of some delicacy in fixing upon the proper reason for it. I have not the most distant idea of giving it to G. Harrison. But the difficulty will be which of the conflicting parties of our Republican friends is to be preferred. T. Coxe has already recommended a person, who on that account may possibly be as Obnoxious to Leib &c. as a federalist. It would perhaps be adviseable to postpone acting in this Case until we have an Opportunity of Communicating with each other and with some friends. Mr Wm. Pinkney has not yet returned to the U. States and, I am informed, he is not expected until late in the Fall. I have been making enquiry about the chickens and I believe I will be able to obtain some for you. I am, Sir, with the most affectionate regard & the Highest Esteem Your Ob. Sert. Rt Smith RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 6 Sep. and “Truxton. G. Harrison. Pinck-
ney” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Thomas Truxtun to TJ, 20 Aug., and enclosure.
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3 SEPTEMBER 1804 In January 1804, Smith appointed William Irvine (irwin) to superintend the
navy’s stores in Philadelphia (Lb in DNA: RG 45, MLS).
Notes on Roofing [before 4 Sep. 1804]
to cover with sheet iron in ridges & gutturs. let the ridges be 6. I. high & 5. times that in span = 30 I. then the slope will be 16.15 and adding 1.85 I. for the lap the sheets of iron must be 18. I. wide consequently 18 I. of sheet clears only 15. I. horizontal, and if the sheets cost 18. D. the square,1 the cost of a horizontal square will be as 15 I. : 18 I. :: 18 D. : 21.6 D [note the thickest tin is 18. D a box of 100. sheets 16¾ by 12¼ = 142. sq. feet the thin tin is 18 D a box of 225 sheets 14 I. by 10 I. = 220. sq. feet] method of doing it. place your joists 30. I. apart from center to center. let them be 12. I. wide, and slope them from the middle towards each end to 6. I. width, leaving the bolts in strait.2 laths are then to be nailed across them, but not plain ones as for shingling but serrated thus each tooth being of 30. I. long & 6. I. high, the thin point laid over the joist & nailed thro’ to the joist with a spike or large nail. to make the serrated laths without waste, have oak plank 2. I. thick and 10. I. wide & split it with a saw thus in this way each plank makes 2 serrated laths without waste. nail them on the joists, the serrated edge up. then nail inch sheeting 3 plank across them on the upper edges. this coat will consequently be parallel with the joists. the angle of the4 tooth being 136.° 22′ have all your sheets bent longitudinally through the middle to that angle. lay down a sheet in the guttur, and nail it’s edges to the sheeting. they will reach 9 I. up the slope each way. lay another sheet on the adjoining ridge. it’s edge will overlap the guttur sheet 1.85 I. nail it on it’s ridge pole to the sheeting. note the sheeting is not to be mitred at the ridge pole, but the side of one plank laid over the edge of the other, that the nails may enter the solid, instead of entering the mitre. 342
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then across the ridges, (after all is covered with sheet iron) lay plain laths one foot 5 apart. these will consequently be parallel with the serrated laths and across these again nail flooring planks, square jointed, which of course will be parallel with the joists & sheeting plank. the whole looks thus
a plinth to cover the eve holes. a nail thro’ the flooring plank into the edge of the plinth another thro’ the plinth into the edge of the lath6 estimate for every 10. f. square horizontal measure. sheet iron. 120. sq. feet = 21.60 D flooring plank. laths sheeting
100. f. 50. 120. 270. sq. f. I. plank = 3.60 2. I. serrated laths. oak 21 sq. f. .40 25.60 besides nails & laying down. The Terras on the top of the house is 12. squares. will cost 307.20 D The Terras on the N.W. offices. 30. squares ⎬⎫ 38. sq. 972. ⎭ on the passage 8. do. on S.E. side 972. 2251.20
for the Terras of the house, of sheets 18. I. by 10. f. 48 × 2 = for the 8. gutturs of the porticos & piazzas for the gutturs formed by junction of the roof with walls of Dome
96. 20. 3. 119.
but if plate iron be used only for the gutturs, it may be only 16. I. wide and 11 f. 6. I. long7 the ridges to be covered either with plank or shingles 12. I. then the cost of the sheet iron will be only 8. D. per square horizontl. measure qu. 9. D 60 one terras & passage will then cost 304. D. for it’s gutturs of sheet iron. 343
4 SEPTEMBER 1804
the terras, without the passage, 30. squares @ 9.6 will be 288. D for the sheet iron = 16 squares @ 18. D8 the ridges will still be 30. I. span & 6. I. high, & the slope 16.15
order 1500. f. plank pine 8. I wide in cuts of 10. f. for slopes of terras.
a plainer calculation there being 4. gutturs in every 10. f. requiring only a sheet of 16. I. each & the full square of sheet iron costing 18. D. we have this proportion As 10. f. : 4 × 16 I = 5 f–4 I :: 18 D : 9.6 D which ×d. by 30. squares 30 gives 288. D. for the N.W. offices & 288. D. for the S.E. do. 576. D. for the whole to wit 16. squares for N.W. 16. do.iares for S.E. 32 do. for the whole × 18 = 576. 1804. Sep. 4. the N.W. offices will require 2 × 48 = 96 sheets 16. I. wide 11 f–6 I long wrote to Jones & Howell for 100. sheets 16. I. wide 11 f–8. I long these will make 15.56 squares which @ 18. D. will be 280. D.9 MS (MHi); entirely in TJ’s hand, including brackets except in dateline supplied by Editors; with two subjoined notes related to orders of sheet iron of 5 Sep. 1806 from Samuel Mifflin and 25 May 1807 from Jones & Howell; part of “Monticello: Notebook of Improvements, 18041807”; Nichols, Architectural Drawings, No. 171. TJ had been using sheet iron for his Monticello roofing since sending detailed instructions on how to cover Monticello’s low-hipped roof, or terras, to James Dinsmore in a letter of 3 Jan. 1803. He may have started compiling these notes, which fill the recto and verso of one sheet of paper, around that time. The detailed plans, including illustrations, on the recto seem to have been worked out in a single
sitting and indicate TJ’s innovative system of ridges and gutters, or “rooflets,” which was intended to draw off water from a lightly sloping roof. The series of estimates on the verso are more clearly the work of several different sittings. These estimates appear to reflect TJ’s efforts to refine calculations as he shifted from planning and design to actual implementation of his roofing schemes, first for the main part of the house and next for Monticello’s dependency wings. One potential alteration was to use sheet iron only for the gutters, leaving the ridges clad in plank or wooden shingles. TJ was almost certainly trying to economize, but he may also have been responding to shortages of sheet iron that had delayed some projects. By 4 Sep., when he added a note on his order of that day to Jones & Howell,
344
4 SEPTEMBER 1804 cladding the northwest dependency had become a priority, something he made clear to his skilled workmen (William L. Beiswanger, “Jefferson and the Art of Roofing,” Chronicle of the Early American Industries Association, 58 [2005], 20-3; Vol. 39:256-7; Vol. 40:446-7; Vol. 42:50, 254; Memorandum of Tasks for John Perry, 24 Sep.). 1 TJ
here canceled “deducting.” Here, TJ added a note running vertically down the left margin: “in covering 2
the terras, the serrated laths may be nailed on the present sheeting.” 3 Word interlined. 4 TJ here canceled “ridges & gutturs.” 5 Preceding four words interlined in place of “inch-planks, [. . .] f.” 6 TJ here canceled “and the lower edge of the plinth resting on the cornice.” 7 From “and” to this point interlined. 8 Sentence interlined. 9 TJ canceled below this line, “but they cost actually but 178.25 which is 11.62 D per square [. . .].”
From Albert Gallatin Sir Treasury Department 4th Septer. 1804 I have the honour to enclose copies of a letter written to the Collector of New London and of his answer on the subject of the re-capture of the Ship Eugenia, together with the affidavits of the revenue officers who were successively on board of the ship. Some irregularity seems to have taken place in dispossessing the British prize master of the vessel; but as he had sailed from the harbour and district of New London without making report according to law, the revenue officers were authorized by the 29th section of the collection law “to cause to be arrested and brought back the said vessel to such port of the United States to which it might be most conveniently done”: and that is the course which should have been pursued by the collector of New London. I have the honour to be with the highest respect Sir Your most obedient Servant Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States now at Monticello Milton mail”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 11 Sep. and “Eugenia” and so recorded in SJL. Tr (same); dated 4 Sep. 1805. Enclosures: (1) Gallatin to Jedediah Huntington, New York, 23 Aug., requesting information on the circumstances regarding the recapture of the Eugenia; in order to establish that the British prize master violated U.S. revenue laws, Gallatin asks for affidavits that describe “with precision” the places where the Eugenia anchored and was recaptured, and also “every subsequent act” of the prize master, the
customs inspectors, and the revenue cutter officers to the time that the ship was overtaken and arrested; Gallatin admits the recapture was “irregular” and worries this may be used by the British to justify the recent outrages committed in U.S. waters by their warships; if it could be proven that the prize master “abandoned ” the Eugenia, rather than leaving it under compulsion, “it would nearly amount to a justification of every part of the transaction” (Tr in DNA: RG 59, MLR; see also Gallatin to TJ, 20 Aug.). (2) Huntington to Gallatin, New London, 29 Aug., enclosing the requested affidavits; on 7 Aug., Captain John Mansfield
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4 SEPTEMBER 1804 sought advice and Huntington referred him to “an able lawyer,” who suggested that the governor of Connecticut could detain the Eugenia since it was within the state’s jurisdiction; after being informed that the governor had ordered the vessel detained, the British prize master cut his cable and made sail; observing this from shore, Mansfield boarded a fishing smack “with 30 or 40 bystanders” and soon overtook and recaptured the Eugenia (Tr in DNA: RG 59, MLR). (3) Affidavit of George House and Nathaniel Saltonstall, master and third mate, respectively, of the revenue cutter Argus, sworn before U.S. district judge Richard Law, 28 Aug.; the Argus followed the Eugenia into New London harbor on the morning of 7 Aug.; House declined to participate in the Eugenia’s recapture, not wishing to implicate himself or the United States; the ship was retaken “about ten miles from the North shore of the sound” and about 14 miles southwest by west from the lighthouse (same). (4) Affidavit of Nathaniel Saltonstall, mate of the revenue cutter Argus, sworn before Law, 28 Aug.; Saltonstall boarded the Eugenia within onehalf mile of the lighthouse and received a paper from the prize master, which he found to be instructions from the captain of the British warship Leander to proceed with the Eugenia to Halifax; “this was the first Idea entertain’d by me,” Saltonstall stated, “of this Vessel being a prize captur’d by the british” (same). (5) Affidavit of Ebenezer Goddard, New London customs inspector, sworn before Law, 29 Aug.; on the morning of 7 Aug., Goddard and another inspector, Samuel Whittemore, boarded the Eugenia, which was anchored in New London harbor; Whitte-
more demanded the manifests from the prize master, who stated that they had already been certified and copied by a revenue cutter officer; Goddard returned to town to report, leaving Whittemore on board the Eugenia; Goddard did not board the Eugenia again until after it had been retaken, after which Goddard never heard the British prize crew express a wish to remain on board, nor any command or intimation by Mansfield, his mate, or any other person that they should leave the ship; the Eugenia anchored approximately northeast of the entrance to New London harbor and east northeast from the lighthouse; it was retaken about 10 miles from the north shore of the sound and about 14 miles southwest from the lighthouse (same). (6) Affidavit of Samuel Whittemore, New London customs inspector, sworn before Law, 29 Aug.; Whittemore repeats much of the same information provided by Goddard’s testimony; he remained on the Eugenia until about four o’clock, when, finding the prize crew preparing to sail, he jumped into a passing boat and returned to New London; while on the Eugenia, the prize master declared that the U.S. government had no right to interfere and he refused to leave the vessel, which would be contrary to his instructions (same). (7) Affidavit of Walter Grace of New London, sworn before Law, 29 Aug.; Grace was among those on board the fishing smack that recaptured the Eugenia; the British captors offered no resistance and complied with Mansfield’s order to go on shore “with seeming chearfulness”; inspector Goddard remained on the smack for some time after Mansfield resumed command of the Eugenia (same).
To Jones & Howell Gentlemen Monticello Sep. 4. 04. I some time ago made enquiry of you whether iron sheets of the dimensions therein stated could be obtained, and you informed me there would be no difficulty. I have now to desire you to send me an hundred sheets 11. f. 8 I. long & 16. I. broad. they must be clear of cracks, as they are for the gutturs of a roof. forward them as usual to 346
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Gibson & Jefferson of Richmond. I salute you with friendship & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Messrs. Jones & Howell”; endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “sheet iron for gutturs. 100. sheets.”
For TJ’s inquiry about iron sheets, see Vol. 42:151-2, 179-80.
From John M. O’Harnett Mentcher Kill Delaware State Sept. 4th. 1804
To your honr. and only you I Send my complaint, and Make my grieviance known—Be it known to you, O Man placed by Heaven to Rule a Gallant free People, that I am a fugitive from my Wife and five helpless Children, in the State of Delaware Owing to my attachment to the cause of freedom, and my being an avoud Enemy to Slavery and Tyranny. In the years 1799 and 1800, I left my employment, went from place to place in the State of Maryland, Shewing the Citizens and proving to them, the faulty ill contrived Government then in existance. The avoud attempt to Introduce Monarchy and tyranny into this Country by Adams and party, (but the Eye of the Ruler of Heaven and Earth frustrated that Infamous design), the Consequence of my atteachment was, Often a brused Cut head, I Remember, when the Alien Bill and gag law was all but ready to pass, on Reading a Speech Made by Mr. Livingston backd. by Mr. Gallatan, against the attempt Made on a Body of free Men by Such a law,s being attempted to be passd. On my Remarking the two Gentlemen Spoke like free Men who had freedom in there hearts for all the human families existing, my head recd. a Stroke of a whip, that left me Speechless walthering in my Blood, I have often left my family for days and weeks together, to go and appose the Federal party, as the are pleasd. to call themselves. I Spent my Sallary, on the Occasion which has left me but a Scanty means to Releve my poor distressd family, I am now in the heart of the Federal Organs; I have heard them Repeat Scandellous things against the Patriot my heart loves, I could not Say a word, in a Strange place Moneyless and friendless. I am heated by that Party, as if I was a Snake or a toad. I believe work, O what a thing Money is, I now know the want of it, after Spending my all. But to Return to the cause of my leaving Maryland. I do hereby Make Known, to my Protector, On a Tuesday in September, there was a trial given by the federalists, in favour of Adams, there was one Cummichael a Lawer, a federal Trumpetter, and I had some words, before his own party, 347
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Relative to a Speech he made, seting forth the goodness of Mr. Adams adminin, and the good and wholesome Laws of Great Brittain. it So happend that I silensed him in his clack, on which he declared publickly he wd. if ever it came in his way Injure me. it So happend that the inclosd. will causd. me to come in his way, he made his words true. he Overthrew the Will, and had me Indicted, which causd me to travel, In Novembr. 1802. I Sent a petition to the Governor of Maryland, Francis J. Mercer a Copy here is inclosd., the Lawer Cummichael, employd. friends, at Annapolis which Prevented my Prayer being heard. I am still forlorn and dejected, I spent my all, as already mentiond. had not money to employ Councel, and if I had, I was as a Sheep between Wolves, the Sheriff was a federalist, the Jury of Consequence were federalist, the Judge Mr. Tilghman was and is Still a federalist. my cause wd have no chance. as I Verely believe the wd put me in a Gibet if the laws of my Country wd. Support them in it the Dawn of freedom began in your honorable brest, the Star duely enlarges and will untill it becomes a full Sun Shine of freedom and happiness to all true hearted Republicans. May the God that Rules in Heaven and on Earth, be your guide guard and protector, while here and everlasting hereafter—Your honr. has made Millions free, let me not be one that cannot teast of the freedom my Country Men feall. if my cause was Murder theft or any Notorious Crime, I wd. Summit my self to the laws of my Country. my cause is honest, and Innoscent at my Seal[. . .]. I beleive the Testator acted so as to have me exposed, a Stance federalist. I trust to your honr. under God, to have me Set free from the Indictmted. before the close of this month. I shall not hesitate to suffer more than I have already done in the cause of freedom. If I had money to support my family, and myself for about One Month, I could turn the heads of five hundred federalists to the cause of freedom and Republicanism. Your honrs. Interest, and the welfare of my Country is next to my heart. overlook this freedom, from a Man that his heart is overflowing with love to [you] And in Duty shall ever Pray J. M. O Harnett RC (DLC); some text obscured by tape; at head of text: “To his Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esqr. President of the United States of America—Honord Esteemd. and respected Guardian of free Americans”; endorsed by TJ as received 7 Oct. but recorded in SJL as received 8 Oct. Enclosure: Petition of O’Harnett to Governor John F. Mercer of Maryland, dated 28 June 1802, stating that in 1798, at the request of George Williams, a sub-
scriber of a school run by O’Harnett, and under his dictation, O’Harnett wrote out his will; that Williams’s signature was by a cross and there were no witnesses; that the will was then successfully challenged in court by the children of Williams’s second wife, and that O’Harnett is now in danger of being arrested for falsifying the will; he asks the governor to release him from the indictment; with, on verso of petition, an affidavit by Thomas Mason and
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6 SEPTEMBER 1804 17 others, dated 30 July 1802, testifying to O’Harnett’s good public and private character (Tr in same, entirely in O’Harnett’s hand).
During the congressional debate over the alien bill and gag law, newspapers widely reprinted speeches by Edward Livingston and Gallatin (Philadelphia Carey’s United States’ Recorder, 28 June 1798; Alexandria Advertiser, 7 Aug. 1798).
From Richard Kennon Sir/ Finnie-Wood 5th Sept. 1804 Your’s of the 15th. of Augt. I received by last post. I was conscious that it would be highly proper, that on the change of Government in Louisiana, the Officers who were to conduct the new one, should be in their places on the first of Octr. the time fixed on for that event—and under that impression was apprehensive that an extent of time could not be granted me, neither do I ask it, if the smallest injury to the publick or an individual was to be the consequence—The beginning of December, is as early a time as I could possibly leave home for that country—nay, that even, would be sooner than, my domestick affairs, could well justify—With every sentiment of the highest esteem and regard am Sir Yours Richd. Kennon RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 15 Sep. and so recorded in SJL.
To Henry Dearborn Dear Sir Monticello Sep. 6. 04. The Spanish government has adopted all the angry passions of Yrujo respecting the act of Congress for the collection district at Mobile, and has written a letter to Pinckney in a stile which renders more serious measures possible. in this situation it behoves us to have every man at N. Orleans who can be spared from other places. not recollecting the force we have there actually, can you by memory remind me of it? for you cannot of course have the particulars with you. After waiting almost to the 12th. hour to get all the information I could respecting characters at N. Orleans, I have, on consultation with mr Madison, sent on commissions. the arrangement is very much what had been approved by the heads of departments separately & provisionally, with a few alterations shewn to be proper by subsequent information, to wit; 349
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Governor. Claiborne. Secretary. James Brown. Judges of the Superior court. Kirby & Prevost. Pinckney or Williams to be the other. District judge. Hall. Attorney Mahlone Dickerson. Marshal. Urquhart, or Clouet, or Guillot, or some other native Frenchman. Legislative council. Morgan, Clarke, Watkins, Jones, Roman, & Wikoff certain Dow or George Pollock at the discretion of Claiborne Boré, Poydrasse & Bellechasse certain: & 3. of these 5. at Claiborne’s discretion, to wit, Derbigny, Detrahan, Dubuys, Cantarelle, Sauvé. In this composition, the several interests American & French, city & country, mercantile & agricultural, have been consulted as much as possible. Claiborne as you know was not the person originally intended. but that person cannot now be appointed: and Claiborne’s conduct has on the whole been so prudent & conciliatory that no secondary character could have a better right. I was able too by a frank private explanation to let him consider his appointment perhaps as ad interim only. I propose to be at Washington by the last day of the month. I expect mr Gallatin left N. York for that place on the 3d. inst. affectionate & respectful salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Secretary at War.” Notation in SJL: “temper of Spain. N.O. arrangemts.”
letter to pinckney: see Madison to TJ, 28 Aug. private explanation: TJ to Claiborne, 30 Aug.
From Gideon Granger Dear Sir. Boston. Sept: 6. 1804 I recd. the inclosed by the last mail. The writer is Atto for Mr Claiborne’s Goverment and one of the Officers of the City of New Orleans. I have deemed it my duty to transmit it for your perusal. It is with real and high regret that I inform you the federalists have (in all probability) succeeded in New Hampshire in the Congress election. For my part I am also inclined to believe they have the best Chance for Electors. Our friends in Massachusetts are in high Spirits. Their hopes of success increase— 350
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I pray God that no evils may arise from the Temper of the Louisanians, or rather a few designing Unprincipled Americans, nor from the Ill temper of Spain— I Am, Sir, in Sincerity Your friend Gidn Granger RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Th: Jefferson Esq:”; endorsed by TJ as received 18 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: John W. Gurley to Granger, 14 July, summarizing the grievances made by Louisiana inhabitants in their memorial to Congress (same). succeeded in new hampshire: the election on 27 Aug. of representatives
Caleb Ellis and Thomas Weston Thompson to the Ninth Congress retained New Hampshire’s Federalist hold in the House of Representatives. Nicholas Gilman in the Senate was the sole Republican from his state in Congress (Granger to TJ, 2 Sep.; Biog. Dir. Cong.; Hanover Dartmouth Gazette, 3 Aug.; Keene New Hampshire Sentinel, 29 Sep.).
From Justus Le Beau Savannah [. . .]
Monsieur le Président, 6th. of September 1804. il y a peu de jours que je Suis arrivé à Savannah—j’habitais L’isle de St. Domingue ou j’ai exercé la Médecine pendant Sept années Consécutives—je me Suis Sauvé dernièrement de Ce pays D’iniquités, à la faveur de la nuit, et dans un Canot qui m’a porté à L’isle de Cube—à St. Domingue, mon travail et mon [. . .] avaient rendus ma Situation fort agréable—maintenant je Suis dénué de tout; je n’ai pû emporter qu’une [. . .] de mes papiers et quelques bijous qui m’ont [fait] exister jusqu’à présent; il me reste une montre et [. . .] petite boite d’or que je Serai [obligé] de vendre pour [me procurer] les premiers bésoins [de] la vie; mais Ce [qui] [. . .] le Comble à mes [. . .] Situation [actuelle] [. . .] demoiselle bien [. . .] votre [. . .]. Elle [. . .] [père] et une mère Respectables par leur fortune, et la Considération bien méritée dont ils jouissaient—ils ont été assassinés de la manière la plus horrible—j’avais obtenu leur agrément pour Épouser Cette Demoiselle que j’aime audelà de toute expression, et dont je Crois être bien aimé—Ses malheurs me la feront Chérir davantage—un Capitaine Américain lui a Sauvé la vie ainsi qu’à Sa Soeur Aimée dont le Mari a été aussi massacré [. . .] elles ont été à la nouvelle orléans pays natal de leur mère—elles Sont attirées par le malheur, et plongées, comme moi, dans la plus affreuse misère—Je désire aller les joindre pour me marier et me fixer pour toujours dans ce pays qui Sera désormais ma patrie—J’ai le projet d’y exercer mon état: pour cet effet j’ai bésoin de livres, de médicaments, je Serai obligé de louer une petite maison et de me procurer un domestique et 351
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un Cheval—tous Ces objets qui Sont d’une nécessi[té] indispensable pour faire mon état d’une manière [. . .] Se monteront à deux mille Gourdes, et je s[uis à?] Ce moment dépourvu de tous moyens pécuniaires[—V]ous Seul, Monsieur Le Président, pouvez A[méliore]r mon Sort: il depend [de] vous de faire deux [. . .]eux, et à Coup Sur, [. . .] ferez pas des ing[. . .] vous prier de m’a[ider?] [. . .] Somme; [je] [. . .] [. . .]adé que mon [. . .] [. . .] je vous offre pour Sécurité ma bonne foi et ma reconnaissance qui Sont, Selon moi, les plus belles qualités du Cœur de l’homme. S’il vous plaisait joindre à Ce Service important, Celui de m’honorer d’une lettre d’introduction pour Monsieur Le Gouverneur de la Louisiane, je me rendrais Sur le Champ [. . .] Charleston pour acheter des livres, médicaments &[ca.] et profiter de la prémière occasion pour la nouvelle Orléans. j’ai L’honneur de vous informer Monsieur Le Président, “que je possede un peu la langue Anglaise—que j’ai fait mes études en Europe; j’ai dabord étudié la Chirurgie, ensuite la Médecine—en Angleterre, j’ai été nommé premier docteur d’un hopital considérable, après avoir Subi un examen en régle; j’ai été ensuite admis aux Conférences de Médecine à Londres: j’en ai ici Les Certificats authent[iques—]” ah Monsieur, Si j’avais Le bonheur d’être Connu [de vous], ma Situation vous intéresserait!—vous [. . .]ez pas importuné, je L’espère, de L’instance de ma prière, et je me plais à Compter Sur votre [. . .] et que je mérite p[ar la] vérité de mon S[. . .] et respectueux attache[ment] [. . .] je me pr[. . .] je Serai [. . .] La Nature [du climat] et des maladies qui y Sont affectées; Deinde Gratias agam Deo quatenus Ego aliquid facerem; quo tibi et Republicæ usui possit. Deus tuam o[. . .] Simul et Excellentiam, diutissime augeat et C[onser]vet incolumem. Excellentiæ tuæ, Omni officio divinitissimus, J: Le Beau M.D. e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Mister President, Savannah, 6 Sep. 1804 I arrived in Savannah a few days ago after practicing medicine on the island of Saint-Domingue for seven years. I recently escaped from this land of iniquity, under cover of darkness, in a small boat to Cuba. In Saint-Domingue, my work and my [. . .] made my life very pleasant. Now I am stripped of everything. I could bring only a [. . .] of my papers and a few pieces of jewelry which have allowed me to subsist. All I have left is a watch and a small box of gold that I will be [forced] to sell to [provide] the necessities of life.
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6 SEPTEMBER 1804 But the worst of my [. . .] [current] situation [concerns] a fine young woman [. . .]. She [lost her father] and mother who lived comfortably and enjoyed a well-deserved esteem. They were assassinated in the most horrible manner. I had obtained their blessing to marry this young woman whom I love beyond all words and who, I believe, loves me. I cherish her all the more for her misfortunes. An American captain saved her life and her beloved sister, whose husband was also massacred. They went to New Orleans, their mother’s native land. They are pursued by misfortune and, like me, plunged into the most atrocious misery. I seek to join them, marry, and settle forever in this country, making it my own. My plan is to practice medicine, but to do this, I need books and medicine. I need to rent a small house and find a servant and horse. All these things are indispensable for practicing my calling in a [. . .] manner. [The cost] would be 2,000 dollars, but I am destitute. Only you, Mister President, can reverse the course of my life. It befalls you to make two people happy and, surely [you] will not [object if I] beg you to [help] me. In short I am convinced that my [. . .]. [. . .] I offer you as security my good faith and gratitude which I believe to be the best qualities of the human heart. In addition to this important service, if you could honor me with a letter of introduction to the governor of Louisiana, I would go to Charleston immediately, buy the books, medicine, etc., and take advantage of the first boat to New Orleans. I have the honor of informing you, Mister President, “that I know some English and that I studied in Europe, first surgery, then medicine. In England, on the basis of an examination, I was named head doctor of an important hospital and admitted to the medical conferences in London. I have the original certificates with me.” Oh, Sir, if I were fortunate enough for you to know me, you would be interested in my plight! I hope you [will not] take my request amiss. I flatter myself in counting on your help and in deserving it [due to] the truth of my [sincere] and respectful attachment. [. . .] I will be at [. . .] The nature of the climate and the illnesses it affects; I would thank God that I might do something of use for you and the republic. May God exalt your [. . .] and excellency for the longest time and preserve you unharmed. To your excellency, your most devoted in every obligation, J: Le Beau M.D. RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Collection); mutilated; at head of text: “His Excellency [Thomas Jefferson] President of the United States” and “Bene est ei, Cui Deus dedit parcâ manu, et tamen dedit quantum Sufficit ad vitam degendam,” that is, “Well is it with him to whom God has given few things into his hand, and nevertheless enough to live his life”; endorsed by TJ, but mutilated. Recorded in SJL as received 22 Sep.
Justus Le Beau advertised his services as a surgeon and physician in New York City and Savannah in 1804. In the early 1830s, having long since moved to New Orleans, Le Beau authored a medical case study on premature puberty and forwarded skulls belonging to members of the Chitimachas tribe to Samuel George Morton (New York Mercantile Advertiser, 2 July; Columbian Museum and Savannah Advertiser, 8 Sep.; American Journal
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6 SEPTEMBER 1804 of the Medical Sciences, 11 [Philadelphia, 1832], 42-3; Samuel George Morton, Crania Americana; or, a Comparative View of the Skulls of Various Aboriginal Nations of North and South America [Philadelphia, 1839], 162-4). agrément pour épouser: Le Beau married Modeste Charbonnet in New
Orleans on 17 June 1805. His marriage record identified him as a native of Brittany (Earl C. Woods and Charles E. Nolan, eds., Sacramental Records of the Roman Catholic Church of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, 19 vols. [New Orleans, 1987-2004], 8:204).
To James Madison Th:J to mr Madison. Monticello Sep. 6. 04. Should we not write to the Governors of S. Carolina & Georgia to 1 furnish us without delay with authentic statements of the illegalities said to have been committed in their harbours by one or more French privateers? as the proceedings of the British vessels at N. York must be laid before Congress to found measures of coercion, peaceable & of force, by giving in the facts relative to the French privateer, we 2 may make our measures less pointed, & less offensive. I have been obliged to defer my visit to Bedford, and probably shall not go at all. we shall hope to see you next week. I salute you with affection. RC (DLC: Madison Papers). PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “French depredns.” Enclosures (see Madison to TJ, 8 Sep.): (1) Probably Thomas Appleton to Madison, Leghorn, 26 May, reporting on Mediterranean affairs; Edward Preble arrived at Naples from Tunis on 15 May and was preparing to sail for Malta with a stop at Messina to take in gunboats, mortars, and ammunition loaned by Sicily through an arrangement brokered by Joseph Barnes; Appleton repeats the details of the misuse of U.S. passports, in particular the case of Henry Benson, about which he wrote to TJ on 25 May; Appleton urges the United States to obtain permission to trade in the Black Sea; no American consul will be recognized by the Ottomans without a treaty of commerce, which Appleton suggests may be negotiated through the mediation of a foreign power, France in particular; since Britain has instructed its minister at Constantinople to protect American citizens and property, Americans have enjoyed
the same privileges as British subjects by paying only consular charges (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:256-7). (2) Probably William Savage to Madison, Kingston, 5 July, requesting payment of his account with the United States and summarizing the quantity of American shipping at Kingston since 15 June 1803; Savage also encloses a copy of his 25 May dispatch to Madison providing information on American seamen impressed by the British navy and the difficulties he has faced in his attempts to secure their release (same, 255-6, 425). For the recent activities of french privateers off the southern coast of the United States, see TJ to Robert Smith, 15 June, and TJ to Levi Lincoln, 24 June. 1 Word written over partially blotted “without.” 2 MS: “me.”
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Natural Bridge
Peace Medal
Pahuska (White Hair)
Abigail Smith Adams
Hamilton Monument at Weehawken
Detail of a Plan of the Town and Harbor of Tripoli
Preble’s Squadron at Tripoli
Dinner Guest Records
To Robert Smith Dear Sir Monticello Sep. 6. 04. Can you inform me of the progress made in the gunboats, where they are building, and when they may probably be ready. were they now ready I should certainly make a proposition to send the whole to New York & to clear out that harbour. should they be ready by the meeting of Congress, and the armed vessels still lying in that port, we might consult Congress on the measure. After waiting almost to the 12th. hour to get all the information I could respecting characters at N. Orleans, I have, on consultation with mr Madison, sent on commissions. the arrangement is very much what had been approved by the heads of departments separately & provisionally, with a few alterations shewn to be proper by subsequent information: to wit: Governor. Claiborne. Secretary James Brown. Judges of the Superior court. Kirby & Prevost. a commission is still reserved for Pinckney Attorney. Mahlone Dickerson. District judge. Hall of S.C. Marshal, Urquhart, or Clouet, or Guillot, or some other native Frenchman. Legislative council. Morgan, Clarke, Watkins, Jones, Roman & Wikoff certain. Dow or George Pollock at the discretion of Claiborne. Boré, Poydrasse & Bellechasse certain & three out of the following 5. at the discretion of Claiborne, to wit Derbigny, Detrahan, Dubuys, Cantarelle, Sauvé. In this composition the several interests American & French, city & country, mercantile & agricultural, have been respected as much as possible. Claiborne, as you know, was not the person originally intended. but that person cannot now be appointed: and Claiborne’s conduct has on the whole been so prudent & conciliatory, that no secondary character could have a better right. I have been able too by a frank private explanation to let him consider his appointment perhaps as ad interim only. I propose to be at Washington the last day of this month. mr Gallatin was to leave N.Y. 3. days ago. affectionate salutns. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Secretary of the Navy”; with check marks
added by TJ above the names of Benjamin Morgan, John Watkins, William Wykoff,
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6 SEPTEMBER 1804 Robert Dow, Julien Poydras, and Joseph Deville de Goutin Bellechasse. Notation in SJL: “gunboats. N.O. arrangemts.”
private explanation: TJ to Claiborne, 30 Aug.
From Carlos Martínez de Irujo Dear Sir Banks of the Delaware 7 of Septre. 1804 The conduct of Mr. Pickney at Madrid, the particulars of which must be by this time perfectly Known to yoù, requires between the Governemet of the United States & myself certain explanations, & elucidations, highly necessary to the preservatiòn of the peace & harmony, so important to oùr common Nations. With this view it is my intentìon to leave Philadelphia for Monticello about thursday next. I am well aware that the Secretary of State is the proper chanel for communicatìons of this Kind; but after ã mature consideration I think that an interview with yoù could perhaps prove more effectual towards the attainement of the saìd important objects. No body more than myself renders to Mr. Madison’s head & heart the justice is due to him; but he has in my opinion an extreme susceptibility: unluckily for myself nature has given me ã pretty good share of it also. this qualificatìon usefùl sometimes I apprehend may not prove advantageoùs in the present occasion; & under this impressìon I [take] the liberty to request yoù for a direct & personal interview with yoù. If yoù have not objectìon to this idea, yoù wìll be so goòd as to direct yoùr answer for me to Mr. Wagner in the Secretary of State’s office a[s] I’ll call for it in my way through Washington; but at all events I expect you will have the goodness to communicate to me yoùr intentions thro that medium. As I have in contemplation to prevaìl of this excursion to take ã peèp at the natural bridge, & the Season is favorable for travelling Mme. d’Irujo wìll be of the party. Whatever have been the causes, or may be the results1 of oùr political differences yoù may be persuaded of my personal regard & affection for you. I am sure you doubt not of these sentiments of mine with which I repeat myself Dear Sir yoùr most obt. Servt. El Marques de Casa Irujo RC (DLC); text obscured by tape; at head of text: “Private”; at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqre. & & &”; en-
dorsed by TJ as received 14 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. 1 Word
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interlined in place of “effects.”
From William Jackson Sir, Philadelphia; September 7th. 1804. Considerations paramount to all others, the love of my country, and a sense of personal honour, which no change of fortune or circumstance can ever efface or diminish, have decided me, on the present occasion, to address you. The accompanying document refers to the most interesting objects that can engage my attention—and, for the moment, these objects banish every other remembrance. Mr. Yrujo’s official character precludes the only reparation I would consent to receive for this attempt against my honour. It is for you, Sir, to determine what satisfaction is due to our Country and its government— I shall wait the time necessary to learn your decision before I give further publicity to this transaction. I am Sir, Your most obedient Servant W Jackson P.S. I regret the necessity of stating that the original of this letter— and the document were dropped this afternoon in the street—That copy of the document was sworn to before Chief Justice Shippen—But as he is gone to his Country seat, and will not return until tomorrow— and as I am unwilling to lose a post, especially as the packet has not yet been recovered, I have sworn to the statement before Mr. Inskeep, one of the aldermen of the City W Jackson RC (DLC); at foot of text above postscript: “Thomas Jefferson Esquire President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Sep. and so recorded in SJL.
e n c l o s u r e
Statement Regarding a Conversation with Carlos Martínez de Irujo On thursday September 6th. 1804 about noon, a note of which the following is a transcript was left at my office, as my Clerk informed me by a person who lives with Mr. Francis Breuil, Merchant in Philadelphia. “The Marquis de Casa Yrujo presents his compts. to Major Jackson, and would be very happy to know from him1 and where he could have the pleasure to see him in the course of this day. Thursday 6.” Never having before received any communication from Mr. Yrujo—never having even exchanged one word of conversation with him in my life—I was
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7 SEPTEMBER 1804 not a little surprized at receiving this message, which I answered by a note to the following purport. “Major Jackson presents his compliments to the Marquis de Casa Yrujo— in reply to his note of this morning, just now received, Major Jackson will be at his office, until 2 o’clock—and at his house in Chesnut street, next to Genl. Dickinsons until four o’clock, at either of which places he will see the Marquis de Casa Yrujo—or, if more convenient, he will wait on him. Thursday Septr. 6th.” This note was sent by Mr. Johnson, my Clerk, and left at Governor McKeans—Mr. Breuil called on me soon after and said that the Marquis de Casa Yrujo would be glad to see me at the Marquis’s House at 5 o’clock. I asked Mr. Breuil if he knew on what business Mr. Yrujo wanted to see me— he said he did not know. I went at 5 o’clock to Mr. Yrujo’s house, and on entering the room was accosted by him in nearly the following words. “You will be surprized Major Jackson at the liberty I have taken in sending for you—but I trust an explanation of the motive will excuse me. I consider you, Sir, as a Gentleman, a man of letters, and a man of honor—By a political intolerance you have been forced to adopt a different profession from what you have heretofore pursued—but it is one in which, you are qualified to be very useful. “I observe by certain opinions expressed in your paper that you consider the present administration (for I will not call them government—) as disinclined to go to war with Spain—in this, however, you are mistaken—The reverse is the case or fact—and they only wish the federal papers to utter those opinions that they may have an argument of that sort for indulging their wish to go to war with my country; which would certainly be very injurious to yours—For if the King, my Master, was to order three ships of the line and six frigates to the Mississippi—and three ships of the line and six frigates to Chesapeak and three ships of the line and six frigates to Sandy Hook—what could you do? But you have it in your power to do much good by espousing the part of peace, which is so necessary to both nations—and if you will consent to take elucidations from me on the subject, I will furnish them—and I will make you any acknowledgment.”—Perceiving at this moment his infamous purpose, I with difficulty stifled the emotions, which it excited and restrained my indignation. He went on to examine in detail the several points in dispute between Spain and the United States—and, as I wished to learn his opinions respecting them I suffered him to proceed. Among other observations he said “that if Mr. Pinckney had acted by instructions from the administration—or if his conduct should be approved by them war was inevitable—but he had no doubt war was the wish of our administration—for he had received a letter from New Orleans dated on the 25th of April last, which stated that there was a letter at that place in Mr. Jefferson’s hand writing dated in March last, which declared that if the settlers between the Mississippi and the Rio Perdido would raise the American colours they should be supported.” He continued his observations, and pressed me to give him an answer, assuring me “that this was no diplomatic management—but an epanchement (unbosoming) of himself to me as a man of honor—and he trusted I would so consider it.” I then quitted the room—he went with me to the street door, and again asked me when I would give him an answer—With difficulty I suppressed the indignation of my feelings, and left the house.
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8 SEPTEMBER 1804 City of Phild. ss— Majr. William Jackson on his Solemn Oath Saith that the within Statements of facts are Just & true— W Jackson Sworn & Subscribd, before me this 7th. Sepr. 1804 Jno. Inskeep one of the aldermen of the City afd. Tr (DLC); in William Jackson’s hand, attestation in John Inskeep’s hand signed by Jackson. certain opinions: Jackson published several editorials in late August and early September expressing his belief that TJ’s administration was more interested in
distributing lucrative patronage appointments to political allies than in preparing for war with Spain (Philadelphia Political and Commercial Register, 27 and 28 Aug., 4 Sep.). 1 Here someone, likely TJ, interlined “+” to mark the omission of a word.
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, New-Orleans 8 September 1804 Since my last letter to you, I have greatly recovered my health, and I have the pleasure to add, that Mrs. Claiborne is now pronounced by her Physicians to be out of danger.—The fever continues to prevail here; but within a few days it has assumed a milder shape, and in several instances has yielded to medicine. The mortality during the last month was principally confined to Strangers;—but on yesterday (I learn) nine persons died, four or five of whom, are Stated to have been habituated to the climate. The disease is called the Yellow fever, but declared by the Physicians not to be contagious.—I find however that the disorder spreads, and I have advised all who can conveniently leave the city to withdraw. The troops are removed into the country, leaving in charge of the public property and buildings, a guard of sixty men. The Patroles at night are composed of the city Militia and Volunteers, who have hitherto performed this duty with fidelity and promptitude. I had thoughts myself of retiring a few miles from the city; but finding that my public duties can better be discharged by remaining at the Government House, I believe I shall abandon the idea. I have formed an acquaintance with Doctor Scott (the gentleman you mentioned in one of your letters) and hold him in high estimation. The Doctor was fortunate enough to introduce into this city the Vaccine Disease, at a period when the Small Pox was prevailing, and attracted thereby a considerable share of the public notice and respect. He is now I believe journeying on the coast, for the purpose of 359
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disseminating that valuable discovery in Medical Science, for which humanity and the world are so much indebted to the immortal Jenner! I have forwarded to you, by this mail in a separate packet, Notes of a survey of the Tombigbee River, under an impression that a perusal of the same will afford you some satisfaction.—This survey was made by Mr. Silas Dinsmore, Agent for the Choctaws, a man of Science, and a worthy and useful member of Society. Accept my best wishes for your health and happiness, and believe me to be— With Sentiments of the highest respect! Your faithful friend! William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); in Joseph Briggs’s hand, signed by Claiborne; at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 31 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. doctor scott: see TJ to Claiborne, 17 July. Silas Dinsmoor’s notes of a survey of the tombigbee river have not been
found, but apparently consisted of a description of the waterway between the Noxubee River and Santa Bogue Creek. He may have enclosed a copy in a 17 Apr. letter to the War Department (DNA: RG 107, RLRMS). Captain Edmund P. Gaines apparently used them in the preparation of his 1808 report to the War Department on his own survey of the Tombigbee (Terr. Papers, 5:558, 601, 624).
From George Doherty Sir Dandrige State of Tenesee September 8th. 1804 I Wase Apointed by the Governor of this state to take the Command of a regement of Volunteers that marched to the Nachez last Winter from this state, I am Very sorry to trouble Your honour With statements of this kind Respecting the maner in which the Regement has been paid; I find by the statements on they pay Roles that their hase been a Reduction on the pay of the sum of twelve thousand Dollars When I Returned from that fetagueing Journey Which lasted fore Months And seventeen Days traviling Eight hundred Miles from Where I live to Natchez and back-Again And the grater part of it through A Wilderness I on My start made no doubt but that the United states would have paid my Expence; but the have Reducted one hundred and thirty Dollars off the pay the Allow’d. me, and paid me the pityful sum of three hundred and thirty Dollars A sum Not Equal to my Expance as it Wase Oblidg’t to be grate by reason that no way wase provided by goverment for the suport of the Regement And Coul’d Not see them suffer on the Road I Wase Oblidg’t to take with me A servant & three horses to Carry my baggage and provisions 360
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for My suport travilling through the Wilderness And I purchased All for my own horses And paid for it and I have not been allow’d One Cent for all this Expence; I would beg leave to Refer you to a statement I have made to the secritary of Ware of the same Date Which will show to Your Honner more fully the statement of the hole business pray sir Advise With the secretary And if You cannot give No further Compensation to the Regement I beg Your honour to ley the Matter before Congress at their Next Meeting Sir I am Your Most. Obediant Humble Servant &c George Doherty RC (DLC); addressed: “To Thos. Jefferson President of the Uniteded states City of Washington”; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Oct. and so recorded in SJL with notation “W”; also endorsed by TJ: “referrd to Secy. at War Th:J.” Virginia native George Doherty (17491833) moved to North Carolina during the American Revolution, where he served in the battle of Kings Mountain. In 1785, he relocated to Jefferson County. Originally a leader in the State of Franklin movement, Doherty went on to be a member of the Tennessee territorial assembly, served at its first constitutional convention, and represented his district in the state legislature for several terms. Doherty commanded the Jefferson County militia and was chosen by Governor John Sevier to lead the 1803 military expedition to New Orleans, which was recalled
before reaching its destination. At the time of his death, Doherty owned farmland, livestock, and slaves in Jefferson County (Zella Armstrong, Some Tennessee Heroes of the Revolution [Baltimore, 1975], 101; Samuel C. Williams, “Tennessee’s First Military Expedition [1803],” Tennessee Historical Magazine, 8 [1924], 184; Works Progress Administration Historical Records Project, Tennessee: Records of Jefferson County, Sales and Will Book Vol. 3, 1836-1840 [typescript, 1938; Tennessee State Library and Archives], 180-1). statement i have made: Doherty wrote to Dearborn, 5 Sep., enclosing copies of letters from James Wilkinson and Cato West (recorded in DNA: RG 107, RLRMS). Tennessee senator William Cocke had asked congress in March to compensate Doherty’s regiment, but the bill failed (js, 3:368, 387).
To Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Monticello Sep. 8. 04. As we shall have to lay before Congress the proceedings of the British vessels at N. York it will be necessary for us to say to them with certainty which specific aggressions were committed within the common law, which within the Admiralty jurisdiction, & which on the high seas. the rule of the common law is that wherever you can see from land to land all the water within the line of sight is in the body of the adjacent county & within common law jurisdiction. thus if in this curvature you can see from a. to b. all the water within the line of sight is within common law jurisdiction, & a murder committed at c. is to be tried as at Common 361
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law. our coast is generally visible I believe by the time you get within about 25. miles. I suppose that at N.Y. you must be some miles out of the hook, before the opposite shores recede 25. miles from each other. the 3. miles of maritime jurisdiction is always to be counted from this line of sight. it will be necessary we should be furnished with the most accurate chart to be had of the shores & waters in the neighborhood of the hook; & that we may be able to ascertain on it the spot of every aggression. I presume it would be within the province of mr Gelston to procure us such a chart & to ascertain the positions of the offending vessels. if I am right in this, will you be so good as to instruct him so to do? I think the officers of the federal government are meddling too much with the public elections. will it be best to admonish them privately or by proclamation? this for consideration till we meet. I shall be at Washington by the last day of the month. I salute you with affection & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (NHi: Gallatin Papers); addressed: “Albert Gallatin Secretary of the treasury Washington”; franked; postmarked Milton. PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “chart of N.Y.—officers meddling wth. elections.”
From James Madison Dear Sir Sepr. 8. 1804 I recd yesterday yours of the 6th. with a return of the letters from Appleton and Savage. Under the same cover with this are sundry communications, some of them very interesting. They need not be returned till I can receive them at Monticello, which I expect will happen early in the ensuing week. Should the inclosed letter to Mr. Pichon be such as you entirely approve, I beg the favor that it be put under cover to Mr. Wagner, to be forwarded by him, after taking an office copy. Should alterations or additions be thought proper, they can be made on my arrival at Monticello under your personal directions. I have thought it best to decline any expressions which might enter in the smallest degree into the character of the Revolution in the French Govt. or even be personal to the Emperor; altho’ something of the latter kind may probably be looked for. If any such civility, consistent with our principles and our neutrality, should occur as eligible, it may find a place in the communications on the subject thro’ our Minister at Paris, from whom we shall soon receive the original notification by Talleyrand. 362
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Some of the French irregularities in S. Carolina & Georgia are I believe already in the Office of State. The collectors are under standing instructions to transmit them. It may be proper to remind them of their duty, if not to call on the Govrs. also. I will take your orders, when I have the pleasure of seeing you. Pichon signifies that the French frigates, and the aversion of Mrs. P. to approach yet the scene of her misfortune, render their visit more than improbable. He does not however absolutely relinquish it. Yours with respectful attachment James Madison RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department on 8 Sep. and “lre to Pichon on change of govmt in France. Fr. depredns” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures: (1) Madison to Louis André Pichon, 3 Sep., acknowledging the receipt of Pichon’s letter of 25 Aug. and other documents relative to the change in form of the French government, which Madison has laid before the president; Madison explains that a blank letter of credence had been sent to John Armstrong before receiving formal notification of the change in order to prevent delays in the succession of the new U.S. minister to France; this precaution reflects “the readiness of the U. States to respect the right of every nation to give to its Government the form deemed most correspondent with its situation & its happiness, and the desire of the President to maintain” good relations between the two nations; the president is also pleased to learn that there can be a continuation of communication “in the accustomed form” until formal notice is received (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:16). (2) Probably William C. C. Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 25 July; reports on proSpanish views of inhabitants west of the Mississippi River; the Marqués de Casa Calvo continues to “style himself Commissioner of his Catholic Majesty” and Claiborne again requests instructions as to what to do about it (same, 7:520-1). (3) Probably Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 25 July, enclosing a 13 July letter to him from Edward D. Turner, the military commander at Natchitoches, forwarding a deposition by John B. T. Palliet stating that Spain has issued a royal
decree authorizing its officials “to use every means to reduce, weaken and ruin the adjoining Country belonging to the Americans,” including the encouragement of slave desertions; Turner has received information that Spanish forces are planning an assault on Natchitoches; Claiborne discounts these reports, but will instruct Turner to prepare the militia in his district and will send ammunition; if a rupture with Spain takes place, Claiborne believes that Spanish troops from Pensacola may threaten New Orleans (same, 521-2). (4) Probably Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 30 July, responding to Madison’s letters of 19 and 26 June regarding petitions of Peter Pedesclaux, Louis de Clouet, and John Devereux DeLacy (same, 331, 373-4, 542-3; see also Claiborne to TJ, 27 Apr., and DeLacy to TJ, 23 May). (5) Probably Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 1 Aug., providing additional information on the French privateer Eugene and its prizes, the American brig Mary and the British brig Active, about which Claiborne had written more than two months earlier; the prizes were taken after leaving Jamaica and then disguised as merchant vessels flying French and Spanish colors; the cargo of the Mary was landed and the vessel burned; the Active arrived at New Orleans as the Hector from SaintDomingue; Evan Jones took consignment of the cargo and offered it for sale before the fraud was discovered; Claiborne has seized the Active and will hold it awaiting orders; he encloses 16 depositions regarding the affair (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:547-9; see also Notes on Dispatches from William C. C. Claiborne, 4 July). (6) Probably Claiborne
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8 SEPTEMBER 1804 to Madison, New Orleans, 4 Aug., providing additional details and papers regarding the French privateer and its prizes; Claiborne has ordered the cargo of the Active placed in storage and detained the Eugene, its owner, Joseph Dumas, and its captain, L’Oiseau, until the case of the Mary is fully explained; the Spanish are said to possess the cargo of the Mary, and Claiborne will request that the proceeds not be appropriated until the brig’s owners can submit their claim (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:548n, 558-60). (7) Probably Claiborne to Madison, New Orleans, 4 Aug., enclosing dispatches from Turner at Natchitoches regarding the recent visit by a delegation of Caddo Indi-
ans and their displeasure at not receiving gifts; Turner also sent reports that the Spanish are strengthening their post at Los Adaes; Claiborne adds that the Caddos are a small tribe located “about 80 or 100 leagues” from Natchitoches and that they have about 300 to 400 warriors; he will invite a delegation to visit New Orleans; Claiborne estimates that the post at Los Adaes is no more than “10 or 15 leagues” from Natchitoches (same, 560-1; see also Claiborne to TJ, 30 Aug.). sundry communications: see the following document. her misfortune: see Pichon to TJ, 9 July.
Notes for Consultation with James Madison consult mr M. James Ross’s lre. agent to W. Indies Navoni’s lre Claiborne. lre July 25. Aug. 4.
[on or after 8 Sep. 1804]
⎫
Span. at Adais & Natchitoches. refusl. to pay ⎪ private debts, decree to ⎬ reduce weakn. & ruin ⎪ ⎪ adjact. country of US.— ⎪ ⎭ the Cados—Panis. ✓ Mason’s lre. inclose to Wagner. July 25. Casa Calvo. ✓ Navoni’s do. 30. Delacey Aug. 1. French privateer. ✓ inclose Pichon’s lre to Wagner. consult Duponceau & Atty Gen. ✓ Duval. Isaac Neufv. do. as to Eugenia ⎪ ⎪
shall we instruct Claiborne to intimate to Casa Calvo, & the govrs. of Florida & Mexico, to make no change in the position of things? Lincoln to prepare N.Y. aggressions for Congress. Jackson’s lre. order Monroe immedly. L’Oiseau master & Demas owner of the Privateer 1. are they not pyrates? i.e. have they a commn. perjury? 364
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2. the Mary of Norfolk. American. taken. brot into Misipi. stranded 4. times designedly, & then burnt. cargo should be reclaimed of Govr. Folch. qu. if no criminal prosecn lies, the offender being withn our jurdn private action. for sale of part of cargo without entry, forfieture. this will repel reclamation under the French right to take for contrabd. 3. the Active. British. taken. not condemned. brot into jurdn. regular remedy to order away. but breakg bulk, qu. if done? if done, is it not forfieture? can we attach her for indemnity for Mary? MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 234:41896); undated; entirely in TJ’s hand, including added check marks; written on verso of address sheet for Archibald Stuart’s letter to TJ of 5 June. james ross’s lre.: a letter from Ross, dated 31 Aug. and received 8 Sep., has not been found (Appendix iv). navoni’s lre: François Navoni to TJ, 15 June, received 8 Sep. (Vol. 43:600). For the letters from claiborne, see Madison to TJ, 8 Sep.
mason’s lre.: probably John Mason to TJ, 20 June, received 8 Sep. but not found (Vol. 43:694). pichon’s lre: see Madison to TJ, 8 Sep. duval: see Gabriel Duvall to TJ, 3 Sep. jackson’s lre. order monroe immedly.: in a dispatch of 26 Oct., Madison sent to James Monroe, with other documents, copies of William Jackson’s letter to TJ of 7 Sep. and its enclosure (Trs in DLC: Monroe Papers; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:223, 225n).
From Samuel Smith Dr. sir/ Balt. 8. Septr. 1804 The Writer of the inclosed letters Mr. Hatch Dent (a Native of Maryland) imigrated last Winter to N. Orleans.—he lived for seven years in this City & is highly estimated by those Citizens to whom he was known—He was highly recommended by Mr James Mc.Culloh (one of our Senators) for the place of Naval Officer or Surveyor—to either of which I knew him (myself) well qualified—But the application came to me, after the period when I Concieved the Officers were Selected—I therefore declined Naming him—Mr. Dent’s Connections are very respectable, his Education Classical, his Conduct thro: life honorable to himself—If a Vacancy should offer at N. Orleans,— permit me to say that the Public will be well served by him.—his politicks are right— 365
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I send the inclosed, as well on Acct. of this Information, as that Such letters will Sometimes Convey information that Cannot be obtained from public Officers—The arrival of Mr. Monroe at N.O— would be highly important—I am Sir/ In truth your friend & servt. S Smith RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 11 Sep. and “Dent Hatch. office Orleans” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures: (1) Hatch Dent to James H. McCulloch, 24 June, on indulging the merchants of the “Western Country” with the privilege of remitting in New Orleans (same). (2) Dent to McCulloch, 14 July, describing a 1 July meeting of Louisiana inhabitants who prepared a memorial to Congress (same). hatch dent became a clerk, justice of the peace, and sheriff in the Rapides District, Orleans Territory (Terr. Papers, 9:598, 662, 751, 836). James H. McCulloch (mc.culloh) served in the Mary-
land state senate from 1801 to 1805 (rs, 10:407-8n). Rumors continued to circulate in print throughout August and early September that TJ had appointed James monroe governor of Louisiana although he had already declined the offer. According to Dent in Enclosure No. 1 noted above, Thomas Harman of the New Orleans firm Winter & Harman reported a conversation in which Monroe expected to come to their city (Albany Centinel, 10 Aug.; Maryland Herald, and Hager’s-Town Weekly Advertiser, 15 Aug.; Monroe to TJ, 15 Mch.; TJ to Benjamin Rush, 8 Aug.).
To Robert Bailey Dear Sir Monticello Sep. 9. 04. I think I informed you that I should want such a box of plants & seeds put up every year as I first desired from you, for the same friend at Paris. I have only therefore to refer you to my former list, and call your attention to it at this time when the season for getting the seeds is commencing. when you come to pack the plants in autumn, they must have a great quantity of moss distributed among them. in this condition I recieved two boxes of plants from Italy this spring in such perfect vigor that not a single one I think was lost. I shall be at Washington myself by the last of the month. Your acquaintances here are well; particularly mr & mrs Terril, Doctr. Meriwether who is in the neighborhood on a visit, Colo. & mrs Lewis & my own family, which joins me in saluting you with our best wishes. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. Robert Bailey”; endorsed by TJ.
For the plants from italy, see Philip Mazzei to TJ, 28 Dec. 1803.
same friend at paris: Madame de Tessé (Vol. 39:125-6; Vol. 41:486-7).
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To Jean Decout Sir Monticello Sep. 9. 04. I recieved last night your letter of Aug. 24. and have read with sensibility the details of sufferings which it presents. in truth those of the inhabitants of St. Domingo have exceeded every thing which the civilized nations have known in modern times. strangers arriving in the US. are apt to suppose the general government to be that which they are to look to for hospitable services, but that government is confined in it’s functions chiefly to our relations which are foreign & public. the state governments have under their care the ordinary concerns of individuals, & the care of their persons & properties. the state governments have accordingly in several instances aided the suffering fugitives from St. Domingo arriving among them; and the individuals of the place have befriended them in all cases. the inhabitants of the state in which you are landed are remarkable for their hospitality, and friendly attentions to strangers; and I am persuaded (without having any acquaintance myself at Beaufort) that philanthropic individuals exist there, who, informed of your situation, would put you in the way of being useful to yourself & others & thereby rendered comfortable. had you been landed in the next port of Wilmington, I would have asked the attention for you of mr Timothy Bloodworth of that place, with whom my acquaintance would have authorised it: but I am persuaded that you will find some immediate resource in the humanity of those among whom you happen to be. I salute you with respect & good wishes. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “M. Decout M.D. Beaufort N.C.”
From Ferdinando Fairfax Sir, Charlestown 9th. Sept: 1804. I now apply to you as a friend. When I addressed to you some months ago a proposition for renting the Iron Property of the U.S. in this county, I hoped long since to have recd, thro’ the proper department, an answer accepting or refusing that proposition. From the very considerable advantages of my woodland and other conveniences, I could have procured a responsible Man (with whom I have already communicated) to carry the said proposal into speedy & complete execution; so that I might with propriety have been allowed the present use of the sum of money required in advance for the Improvements. 367
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But, concluding that considerations of public expediency have prevented the acceptance of my proposal—or that possibly my letter hath been forgotten or over looked in the war-office; I have, for some time, relinquished any expectation from that Quarter. In placing myself in my present situation, I retained the full power over my property, to dispose thereof (or at least such part as might be necessary) to meet and discharge without destructive sacrifice, engagements & assumpsits, too hastily made on the expectation of being able to sell much earlier than I found it practicable to do, considerable bodies of Land, instead of those which, by those engagements I had acquired and wished rather to keep. And I have so far succeeded as now to apprehend but two crises in my affairs.—One of these is all important, and hath engaged my attention & resources for several months past—viz: the compromise made at the last Session of the Supreme Fedl: Court, by wch, if I pay into the Bank of Alexa. $20,600.00. by the 20th day of next month, I secure a most valuable Estate from the consequences of a lien existing upon it prior to my purchase of it, and, besides paying with a part of that Estate the largest debt I owe, prevent an actual loss of at least Six thousand Pounds. The other crisis is distant, and I fully expect, that by passing the first with success, I shall not only meet that and all smaller engagemts. duely prepared—but finally get thro’ every monied difficulty, not only without impairing my estate, but with honor and credit—leaving in my possession property much more eligible than that with which I shall have parted. For hitherto I have sold nothing but what I chose to sell—and have not (in the numerous executions which I have paid off) sacrificed a Negroe, a Horse, or even a Farming Utensil; notwithstanding the machinations of Enemies (for every man zealous to detect and determined to expose villainy, or even wilful error, will have a few of these) and the exaggerations of friends real or pretended; which at one time had alike tended, by magnifying, really to increase my difficulties, and to obstruct my means of obviating them. I might truly add, that in “the days of Terror” I had experienced, when my affairs by their own intrinsic trouble pressed with sufficient weight, the pressure of Federal persecution in private life, from a few persons who were aware of the influence of Democratic principles (openly avowed and conscientiously maintained “in the worst of times” by one of my standing in society, on whose character they cou’d fasten no hold) but who wanted candour or courage enough to act other wise than by touching secret springs in the dark. Considerations then, to me at least, interesting & important, make it worthy my utmost exertions to prepare for the 20th, October, and 368
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I view with anxious hope the prospect of being accompanied in the triumph of principle by renewed prosperity in Affairs—when my time may be spent in a way more congenial to my inclination, and very different from the occupations of the few last years. I have accordingly sold Land for money and good Bonds to a large amount, and expect to have ready a good part of the sum required.—At all events the means are ample; but I fear they may not produce the Cash required by the day, thro’ they certainly may within a few months there after. I have deemed the above candid & true exposition of my situation, and of my views, proper as an introduction to my present application, which is to beg your aid, if practicable, by a loan for a short time of about ten thousand Dollars; which I can secure to you, either by a Bill of Sale on one hundred Negroes, as likely as any in Virginia, or by the personal security of a responsible gentleman of Honor & easy circumstances; and worth a fortune of at least seventy thousand Dollars. I will only add that whatever aid you can afford will be forever remembered by me and mine; and that your answer here will be gladly received By, Sir, Your hble. Servt. Ferdno. Fairfax P.S. In case of accidents I have advertised for sale 60 or 70 Negroes; but this is a measure I anxiously wish to avoid; and I do not think there is time to sell them without loss—and also great distress to them by too general a separation both of which by taking time enough may be avoided. RC (DLC); addressed: “Thos Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 12 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. some months ago: Fairfax’s 19 Apr. letter to TJ has not been found (Vol. 43:692).
supreme fedl: court: during its June term, the U.S. Circuit Court for the District of Columbia decided two cases in favor of the Bank of Alexandria (William Cranch, Reports of Cases Civil and Criminal in the United States Circuit Court of the District of Columbia, from 1801 to 1841, 6 vols. [Boston, 1852], 1:167-70).
From William Jackson Sir, Philadelphia September 9th. 1804 The enclosed papers, which I stated to you in my letter of the 7th instant had been dropped in the street, having been restored to me by Mr. Deane, by whom they were found—I have believed it proper, to guard against any failure in the transmission of my first packet to 369
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forward these papers also—and, as they are attested before the Chief Justice, I request that they may be considered as the papers to be used in any proceeding that may be had on the subject, to which they relate. I am Sir, Your most obedient servant W Jackson RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esquire, President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 14 Sep. and so recorded in SJL.
From “An Observer” Respected Sir. Phil’da. 9th. Sepr. The public interest and a regard for the credit of your administration has induced me to address you on the subject of the Office of Superintendent of Military Stores. I am not a friend to annonymous communications nor should I address you in such way, if the facts I state are not, or would not be found evident upon reflection and enquiry. It is not necessary to point out the responsibilities and duties (if properly executed) of this office. But I contend that no regard has hitherto been paid to either. for there has never been a settlement or investigation as to the issue and final application of the public Stores, I understand that returns are made to the Secty of War of the issues in the first instance to accountable officers but there the thing ends. The Storekeepers as one has succeed to an other have taken up the balance of Stores on hand without any inventory being actually taken, the Superintendent charging them with what ought to have been on hand on the presumption that all has been right, but it is his duty to know if all is right— A wrong idea is entertain’d by the Secretary, he thinks it must be a military character to fill the office. If the Secretary stood in need of advice in the execution of his duties then indeed such a chara’ter would be of use to him. But in the superintency of the safekeeping & distribution of the Stores, common abilities, integrity & knowledge of accounts are preferable to military knowledge without the other requisites. From the late appointment and from many of the present applicants the Public are obliged to consider this office as a mere sinicure as such it has been, but this is known to a few only and them your friends. But a republic should have no such places, nor as this one if faithfully executed. I trust therefore that you will as you always have when well advised of the merits of candidates appoint such as can give our enimies no cause of censure or triumph. 370
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As I write annonymously my candor cannot be doubted and ’though I have not the pleasure of a personal acqaintince, I cannot take leave of you without expressing the Heartfelt satisfaction I have experienced in consequence of your election to the Presidency; the epoch of the predominancy of republican principles.—Long may you preside; and in the course of events as all things must change from natural causes, may you retire with (as you now possess) the affections of a grateful people. Which is the wish of a Sincere friend— An Observer. RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as an anonymous letter postmarked at Philadelphia 10 Sep. and received 14 Sep., and so recorded in SJL with notation “Irvine’s office.”
From Robert Smith Sir, Balt. Sep. 9. 1804. Not being able to decipher the name of the writer of the enclosed letter I have to ask the favor of you to fill up the Blank with the name of his son in the Warrant herewith sent and then to return it to me You will herewith receive dispatches from Preble. From them we may conclude that peace will not be with Tripoli, before the arrival of Barron’s squadron. But it is a problem not easily solved what the Conduct of Tunis will be. Is there not some cause to fear that OBrien will have made to Tunis some large promises? and that he may induce Preble to accede to Overtures of Tripoli which in our judgement may be improper. With great Respect Your Ob. Sert Rt Smith RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 11 Sep. and “Preble—Callis” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures not identified, but see below. The writer of the enclosed let ter was evidently William O. Callis on behalf of his son Cleon Callis, to whom Smith addressed a midshipman’s appointment and oath of allegiance on 21 Sep. (Cleon Callis to Smith, 5 Oct., in DNA: RG 45, MLR). Smith may have enclosed dispatches from Edward Preble of 30 May and of 14 June to 5 July. In the former, written at Syracuse, Preble reported the progress of
repairs to the U.S. schooner Nautilus, the acquisition of six gunboats and two bomb ketches, and the loan by Ferdinand IV, the King of Naples, of six cannons to be mounted on a vessel “as a floating battery.” He expected some of the vessels to be ready to sail in about two weeks, and although hoping for reinforcements, he would attack Tripoli regardless, for the “season for Action will soon pass away.” He also reported intelligence of a squadron of cruisers sailing from Tunis and that he would sail immediately for that port to investigate. In the second set of dispatches, written in several sittings at different places, Preble reported first his failed attempt to ransom the American
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9 SEPTEMBER 1804 prisoners in Tripoli, news of which TJ also received in a letter of 3 Aug. from Stephen Cathalan. Preble expected that without a U.S. bombardment of Tripoli, his standing offer of $50,000 would almost certainly be rejected, and he added that an offer proposed by Tobias Lear through Richard O’Brien of allocating $600 ransom for each prisoner “would stimulate the avarice of the other Barbary Powers.” Writing from Tunis Bay on 20 June, Preble reported the discontent of Hammuda and the need to “shew a force” there, but he doubted that the bey would initiate hostilities “if we succeed in punishing Tripoly, or if more force arrives.” In several subsequent sittings, Preble reported completion of repairs to the Nau-
tilus and the readiness for action of the gunboats and bomb vessels. Writing from Messina on 5 July, he expected to sail for Tripoli the following morning and hoped that his “next letter will announce to you our success” and the “restoration of our unfortunate countrymen to the Sweets of Liberty” (ndbw, 4:130, 185-90). Preble may have also enclosed in his dispatches a letter of 11 May from George Davis to Madison, in which Davis recounted an audience between Hammuda and O’Brien. Davis enclosed correspondence between himself and O’Brien, who advised Davis to offer up to $10,000 a year to ensure peace with Tunis (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:207-9).
From Henry Terrell 1804—Sep. 9—before day
Dear Sir Kky—Clark C. Boons Creek— the greatest and the Smallest of men are equally under my kind notice—when you was first chosen President for all the Sister States I then purposed to send you a letter—but did not—it was not thro want of continuation of diseres—many near things concured to put off my intention as saying to myself I will do it some time hence—I had waded thro the grose mistakes of John Addams and pittied the declining weaknesses of George Washington almost up to madness against Usurpation—for the four years of Addams his presedentship it was not government—in my writings and common conversation with my neighbors represented the miss rule over us as the great brazen bridge some of the old ancient writers mentioned under that similitude—and the tyrant king had it built over his City—rode in his Chariot over the peoples heads and as he pleased hurled firebrands on his Subjects—the rumbling of his Chariot wheels mimickd thunder and the fire brands were the bolts—dear Sir what more was the Alien law and Sedition bill—long tyrants great Cart nails such as are to fasten the Shod of the Spoilation waggon loaden with money to bestow on lackies—the Slaves of tyranny—my constand bitter reproaches after I had vended my resentments—I would as constantly Shew the beauties of Republicanism—and as clearly Shew the Practicability of our Seling of the old bridge and firmly establishing of the best of rules—by Clean Elections—Shorten all the post down to freequent 372
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Elexions—made a Strong pointing finger at any one gentlemans Serving a double term—Yet if in case that a free vote of the people did agree in Such a term—why then Shew the danger of the easy Elbow Chair—Dear Sir such was my earnessness by pen and tongue—and now you have acted nearly the first term—Suppose that a free Election will fix you a Second time—I have no personal acquaintanes with you—by the means of Dabny Carr I became a freend to you by inclenation—a few years I lived in Albermerl there I saw you at Court—observed you—a few years the oldest—my keen attention then in very deed made me Set in mind and free conversation the worthy mortals I got acquainted with—and the knaves I astoitly frownd on— marked them as enemies to mankind— I lived above the frowns of wicked men nor would be concerned in the deceptive ways of this world—for I thought that the more Candid any one was the more happy they would—and a good Consience was a peacable Kingdom—I married at 30—I had parted with all my Albermerl lands & leased others near where I was raesed—poor land— Scuffled on it as long as I could so come to Kentuck with a number of Children—not one Negro—live on given land during my life and my wifes life—it is an easy Scufling on this rich land—and one of my greatest ambitions is to see republican flourish—I often point out the remains of old rule whether of the Monarchial or Aristocratical—it is nothing better than parts of the old brazen bridge—with sorrow of heart I look back and find some great men in their decline fall into a mud hole—I often inquire what is become of some of our former good friends on the other side of the Atlantick—that stood so firm in the time of the war of Brittain with America—as the bold republican Berk—and Jno Wilks—one made a pensineer & the other a gentle man of the King Chamber—O sir—rather let me perish by the hands of my enemies and Secretly cramd into a ditch—have no burial—O Dear Thos Jefferson it is the very mainest part to nicely observe and as much as in worthy mortals Can—Strive to finish our days with out falling into the mud—Dear sir I may add a few tickets and inclose them—I am— Henry Terrell 1804—Sep 17—before day— Dear Sir a few days past I promised you that may be I might add a few tickets to my letter to you—I find free to write this one only—the motiv is mere love—I say mere—nothing else—fully Satisfied that whether you go a Second term as president—or not—You will Still be a Friend to Mankind—You will be so kind to write to me— Come—the good intimacy I had with Dabny Carr may plead with you 373
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to Condesend to favour me—my way of writing letters is almost Universal—& to my near and distant friends and to others—freely—I wrote a piece of thirty pages to James Garred our late Governor for Kentucky—as a looking glass for the good old Whigs to See themselvs in—and as many of the tories as frequented the governors board to see themselves too—beged of him to send me some sort of answer— he would not—So I sot him down as an Unworthy mortal—not worth notice—he is an Excluded baptist—I am with best love Yours— H Terrell RC (DLC); addressed: “His Excellency Thos. Jefferson President of the United States Federal City”; franked; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Henry Terrell (1735-1812) was the son of a Virginia Quaker lawyer, Henry Terrell of Caroline. He was a cousin of TJ’s Monticello neighbor Chiles Terrell (William Wade Hinshaw and Thomas Worth Marshall, Encyclopedia of American Quaker Genealogy, 7 vols. [Ann Arbor, Mich., 1936-1950], 6:273-4; Scott Woodson Bigbie, The Descendants of George Bigbie of Virginia, Volume Two: Families that Married into George Bigbie’s Virginia Line [Bellevue, Wash., 1994], 61-3; Annie Walker Burns, Abstract of Wills in Clark County, Kentucky, County Seat Winchester, Kentucky, for the Period of Years 1792 to 1851 [Seat Pleasant, Md., 1933], 21; Vol. 38:137n).
tyrant king: Virgil’s King Salmoneus, who imitated thunder and lightning by driving his chariot over a brass bridge while casting torches down upon his subjects (Aeneid, 6.585). Dabney carr and Terrell may have known each other through Carr’s aunt, who had married a Terrell (Nan Overton West, The Overtons: 700 Years with Allied Families from England to Virginia, Kentucky, and Texas [Madison, Wis., 1997], 500-1). excluded baptist: James Garrard attended Cooper’s Run Church, which had been dropped by the area’s Baptist association for preaching Unitarianism (Lewis Collins, Collins’ Historical Sketches of Kentucky: History of Kentucky, rev. and enlarged by Richard H. Collins, 2 vols. [Covington, Ky., 1878], 1:418-19).
From Elizabeth House Trist My Dear and Hond. friend Orleans 9th Sept 1804 I addressd a few lines to you by the last mail informing you of the affliction that God has visited us with, to you who know how Severe the pang that deprives a parent of a beloved Child I need not repeat the sensations which occur to all who have experienced the Sad tho natural misfortune but these operations of nature bear not equally hard, when the support of a family is taken how truly deplorable. My lot is among the hardest an only child on whom my dependence for comfort and support in my decline of life rested, his wife and Infant children what a change in their Situation, a very short period since prosperity and happiness expanded to their view but now all is gloom, 374
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small I fear is the means left them for future support, what there is left is in England but whether we can command it, I know not, the Expences of this year with every attention to economy has equalled1 the income of his Office the expence of living is great in this place, All now look up to Wm Brown I shou’d not have written so soon again but the fear of my last letter miscarrying, and the importance of an early Solicitation for his succeeding my dear Son his knowlede in that line2 is unquestionable as also his industry and integerity, it is with much pleasure I hear that the most respectable Merchants of the place have recommended him for the Office. The consciousness of your friendship on this occasion is some alleviation of the anxiety that the situation of our circumstances create Henry Brown was yesterday pronounced out of danger by the Physican but is yet very weak, this has been a fatal season indeed to the Americans and Europeans. May God preserve You and may you never experience the Misery of your unfortunate Friend E. Trist RC (NcU: Nicholas Philip Trist Papers); endorsed by TJ as received 31 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
1 Word interlined in place of “exceeded.” 2 Trist here canceled “enabled.”
a few lines: Trist to TJ, 31 Aug.
From Gabriel Duvall Dear Sir, Comptroller’s Office, Sept. 10. 1804. The inclosed commission has been sent here, it is presumed, by mistake. It is returned for the purpose of being forwarded to Mr. Neufville, with my letter & the accompanying papers, which were sent from this office on the third instant, under cover to You at the request of the Secretary of the Treasury. It’s date does not correspond with that of my letter. I take the liberty of suggesting the propriety of altering the date of one or the other to make them correspond. I have the honour to be with very great respect & esteem, your obedt. Sert. G. Duvall RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “The president of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 14 Sep. and “Neufville” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found.
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To Abraham Husted, Jr. Sir Monticello Sep. 10. 04 Being unwilling to become the depository of secrets valuable to their author I will not give you the trouble of a meeting proposed in your letter of Aug. 23. nevertheless as I should not be justifiable in shutting the door to any benefit which your patriotism might intend for your country, I will observe to you that the Secretary of the Navy, mr Robert Smith is the person to whom such a communication as you propose would belong officially. as the members of the Executive will reassemble at Washington about the last of this month, mr Smith may be conferred with on the subject there at any time after that date. your intentions on behalf of the public being meretorious, I express an acknolegement of it with satisfaction, & accompany the same with my salutations & good wishes. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Mr. Abraham Husted junr.”; endorsed by TJ.
To William Jones Sir Monticello Sep. 10. 04. Madame de Tessé, sister of the Viscount Noailles lately killed, writes me that the Viscount never gave his family any information as to his affairs, and asks of me to procure for them a general information what they were, good, bad, or indifferent. I have no correspondence with any body in Philadelphia who knows any thing about them. I suppose Majr. Jackson may have some knolege of them: perhaps some of the brokers, as he was in that line: or some of those intimate with him. but who his intimates were I know not since the death of mr & mrs Bingham. could you do me the favor to endeavor to find out that I might give to his sister the best information to be had. it would be desireable for them to know in whose hands he left his affairs; for I presume he left some one to wind them up for him. your aid herein will enable me to pay a debt of gratitude to a lady to whom I owe it for great attentions in Paris, which I hope will be an apology for my giving you this trouble. Accept my friendly & respectful salutations. Th: Jefferson RC (Paul C. Richards, Catalogue No. 99, Templeton, Massachusetts, 1978). PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Capt Jones”; endorsed by TJ.
writes me: Madame de Tessé to TJ, 10 Apr. William bingham died in England in February 1804. Anne Willing Bingham died in 1801 (anb; Vol. 34:270n).
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From Allan B. Magruder Sir, Lexington, 10h. Sepr. 1804 I am now engaged in collecting Materials for a History of the Indian Wars, in the Western Country of North America, from the middle of the last Century, to the Treaty of Greenville. To this Subject will be connected a preliminary Veiw of the most Celebrated Theories, concerning the origin of the Indians, their Civil and political Institutions, Religious opinions, Moral Code and Military System. You will perceive, Sir, from the nature and extent of the plan which I have adopted, that it will embrace a very great Variety of important matter, much of which has been but slightly touched on, by Historians and speculative writers.—The military operations of the French & Indians against the Colonies, prior to the establishment of our independance, have been so imperfectly detailed, that we still perceive an immense chasm in the History of America. Those of the Indians, either individually, or connected with the Influence of Great Britain, against the United States, have never been reduced to any regular, or consistent form. They have been detailed in news papers & pamphlets, destitute of that spirit which shou’d be infused into a narrative of important events; & almost in every instance, are without that connection between Cause and effect, so necessary, in all Valuable Historical relations.—I am of opinion, that much interesting knowledge is to be derived from a well written History of the Military affairs of the Western Country. Perhaps, some of the Causes which accellerated our Independance, may be traced to those bloody contests from the years 1774 & 1783, between the Indians and first Settlers of Kentucky and the states of Ohio & Tennesse. They had a tendancy to concentrate the Indian tribes, in defence of their most favorite hunting grounds on this side of the mountains; and by that means, to seperate them, in some measure, from the Influence of the British. Besides, as the defence of the Country, was in a great measure carried on by the Setlers themselves, an opportunity was given to the sturdy mountaneers from Pennsylvania to Georgia, to coalise with the Inhabitants of the Sea Coast & Inland country, in defence of the General Cause. These are points, which few people know any think about. They certainly merit a place in the general History of a Country, whose destiny is to communicate a lesson of Wisdom, to the human race.— The origin of the Indian tribes, upon this great Continent, and the rules and Maxims of Life, which regulate this singular People, have been subjects for much learned and ingenious speculation.—Whilst 377
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the former will probably remain forever involved in uncertainty, and the latter is but little known by the Civilized part of this country, it becomes important, however, even to detail opinions that may be deemed fanciful, and to exhibit in one connected veiw, whatever has been reducted to demonstration. It may give vigour to enquiry; and like all other investigations, ultimately open the avenues to Truth.— Indeed, I know of no period more Suitable than the present, to exhibit in one veiw, all that history and philosophy can say on the Subject.— Under the influence of an administration, which has but few parrellels for its wise and happy tendancy, our Indian Relations are every day becoming more widely expanded. The acquisition of Louisiana, will render it necessary, to form closer Connections with the Indian tribes that may be interspersed throughout that extensive Country. A correct knowledge of their Genius, disposition and Civil Condition, will facilitate the means of rendering our acquisition duly advantageous. This knowledge can only be acquired, by bringing experience to our aid, through the medium of history, the only safte standard by which we can contemplate mankind, either in their rude or polished state, or in the various changes in their Condition, which may be brought about by Time. It will be found by the history of past events, that much bloodshed might have been prevented, and much expense saved to the country, had our government adopted the plan of conducting Indian Embassies, from the various hostile tribes, through the whole extent of our dominions, to shew them the force of the Enemy, with which, they were contending. In fixing our Relations with the Indians of Louisiana, this wise Measure, appears to have been adopted. It will, doubtless, have a most advantageous effect; and render the settlement of that Country much more easy, than what we have formerly experienced, in the Settlement of the Countries, on the Ohio. The one may be done by pacific Measures; the other was attended by a dreadful alternative to arms, so repugnant to the mild spirit of our people, and incompatible with the principles of our Religion and Government. I have taken the liberty, Sir, to Suggest to you my plan and my opinions, on this Subject. I hope that the importance of a work, which will embrace the whole chain of Military occurrences, together with seasonable and appropriate details in Civil History, In that extent of Western Country, from the Latitude of New York to the Borders of West Florida, between the periods I mention, will be considered by you as worthy of encouragement.— As I have reason to believe that you have turned your attention to Indian affairs, in the Earlier part of your Life, I must beg the favour 378
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of you, Sir, to point out to me Such relative documents and sources of information, as may best enable me to accomplish the undertaking. I have collected already, much important matter; but much remains to be collected; and I shall require the aid of such Persons whose knowledge & whose situation, have enabled them to assertain the most Authentic facts.— With sincere Wishes for your happiness, I am, Sir, with great respect, Yr. Mo: Obt. Sert Allan B. Magruder RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Collection); addressed: “Thomas Jefferson, Esquire, President of the United States, Washington”; franked; postmarked 11 Sep.; endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. history of the indian wars: Magruder widely advertised his book plan and solicited materials for the compilation. Appointed an agent for settling land claims in Louisiana, Magruder suspended his historical research in August 1805. In 1806, the Kentucky Gazette printed Magruder’s observations on Native American battles, ceremonial customs, religion, and practices (New York American Citizen, 9 Feb.; Relfs Philadelphia
Gazette, 11 Feb.; Boston Gazette, 23 Feb.; Lexington Kentucky Gazette and General Advertiser, 11 Oct. 1803, 20 Aug. 1805, 21 and 28 June 1806, 5 July 1806; Vol. 42:414n). slightly touched on: Magruder expressed concern that John Marshall’s history of the United States, published in Philadelphia in 1804 as a preface to his Life of George Washington, did not contain details of Indian operations and terminated at the start of the American Revolution. Magruder promoted his own undertaking, drawn on “oral testimony of living witnesses,” as a geographically and chronologically distinct history (Nashville Tennessee Gazette, and Mero District Advertiser, 26 Dec. 1804).
To Abigail Adams Monticello. Sep. 11. 04.
Your letter, Madam, of the 18th. of Aug. has been some days recieved, but a press of business has prevented the acknolegement of it: perhaps indeed I may have already trespassed too far on your attention. with those who wish to think amiss of me, I have learnt to be perfectly indifferent: but where I know a mind to be ingenuous, & to need only truth to set it to rights, I cannot be as passive. the act of personal unkindness alluded to in your former letter is said in your last to have been the removal of your eldest son from some office to which the judges had appointed him. I conclude then he must have been a Commissioner of bankruptcy. but I declare to you on my honor that this is the first knolege I have ever had that he was so. it may be thought perhaps that I ought to have enquired who were such, before I appointed others. but it is to be observed that the former law permitted the judges to name Commissioners occasionally only for every case as it arose, & not to make them permanent officers. nobody 379
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therefore being in office there could be no removal. the judges you well know have been considered as highly federal; and it was noted that they confined their nominations exclusively to federalists. the legislature, dissatisfied with this, transferred the nomination to the President, and made the offices permanent. the very object in passing the law was that he should correct, not confirm, what was deemed the partiality of the judges. I thought it therefore proper to enquire, not whom they had employed, but whom I ought to appoint to fulfil the intentions of the law. in making these appointments I put in a proportion of federalists equal I believe to the proportion they bear in numbers through the union generally. had I known that your son had acted, it would have been a real pleasure to me to have preferred him to some who were named in Boston in what were deemed the same line of politics. to this I should have been led by my knolege of his integrity as well as my sincere dispositions towards yourself & mr Adams. You seem to think it devolved on the judges to decide on the validity of the sedition law. but nothing in the constitution has given them a right to decide for the executive, more than to the Executive to decide for them. both magistracies are equally independant in the sphere of action assigned to them. the judges, believing the law constitutional, had a right to pass a sentence of fine and imprisonment; because that power was placed in their hands by the constitution. but the Executive, believing the law to be unconstitutional, was bound to remit the execution of it; because that power has been confided to him by the constitution. that instrument meant that it’s co-ordinate branches should be checks on each other. but the opinion which gives to the judges the right to decide what laws are constitutional, and what not, not only for themselves in their own sphere of action, but for the legislature & executive also in their spheres, would make the judiciary a despotic branch. Nor does the opinion of the unconstitutionality & consequent nullity of that law remove all restraint from the overwhelming torrent of slander which is confounding all vice and virtue, all truth & falsehood in the US. the power to do that is fully possessed by the several state-legislatures. it was reserved to them, & was denied to the general government, by the constitution according to our construction of it. while we deny that Congress have a right to controul the freedom of the press, we have ever asserted the right of the states, and their exclusive right, to do so. they have accordingly, all of them, made provisions for punishing slander, which those who have time and inclination resort to for the vindication of their characters. in general the state laws appear to have made the 380
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presses responsible for slander as far as is consistent with their usual freedom. in those states where they do not admit even the truth of allegations to protect the printer, they have gone too far. The candour manifested in your letter, & which I ever believed you to possess, has alone inspired the desire of calling your attention once more to those circumstances of fact and motive by which I claim to be judged. I hope you will see these intrusions on your time to be, what they really are, proofs of my great respect for you. I tolerate with the utmost latitude the right of others to differ from me in opinion without imputing to them criminality. I know too well the weakness & uncertainty of human reason to wonder at it’s different results. both of our political parties, at least the honest portion of them, agree conscientiously in the same object, the public good: but they differ essentially in what they deem the means of promoting that good. one side believes it best done by one composition of the governing powers. the other by a different one. one fears most the ignorance of the people: the other the selfishness of rulers independant of them. which is right, time & experience will prove. we think that one side of this experiment has been long enough tried, and proved not to promote the good of the many: & that the other has not been fairly and sufficiently tried. our opponents think the reverse. with whichever opinion the body of the nation concurs, that must prevail. my anxieties on the subject will never carry me beyond the use of fair & honorable means, of truth and reason: nor have they ever lessened my esteem for moral worth, nor alienated my affections from a single friend, who did not first withdraw himself. wherever this has happened I confess I have not been insensible to it: yet have ever kept myself open to a return of their justice. I conclude with sincere prayers for your health & happiness that yourself & mr Adams may long enjoy the tranquility you desire and merit, and see, in the prosperity of your family, what is the consummation of the last and warmest of human wishes. Th: Jefferson RC (MHi: Adams Papers); at foot of first page: “Mrs. Adams.” PoC (DLC). your former letter: Adams to TJ, 1 July.
former law: see section 2 of the Bankruptcy Act of 4 Apr. 1800 (U.S. Statutes at Large, 2:21-2). passing the law: “An Act to amend the Judicial System of the United States,” 29 Apr. 1802 (same, 164).
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From Anonymous [on or before 11 Sep. 1804]
The Louisiana memorial abridged. Power despotic is infernal Freedom is a right eternal. Unchangeable in every time For every people, & for every clime. This truth your ancestors profess’d. And bled to make their Country bless’d. Why unto us the boon denied? Oh spread lov’d Freedom far & wide. Receive us to your arms as Brothers And grant us to make slaves of others. RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 235:42210); undated; endorsed by TJ as an anonymous item received 11 Sep. and “(Washn. postmark) verse. Louisiana memorial” and so recorded in SJL. The anonymous author was indeed responding directly to the louisiana me morial, or remonstrance, against the legislation that created Orleans Territory. Appearing in the National Intelligencer on 5 Sep., the memorial declared the ideals of the American Revolution “fundamen-
tal, indefeasible, self-evident, and eternal” and blasted the misrepresentations that had denied residents of the territory the “boon of freedom.” After requesting the right “to legislate for ourselves as a member of the Union,” the memorialists singled out the traffic in slaves as a concern that should only be determined locally and asserted the “necessity of employing African laborers” for agriculture and levee construction (Annals, 14:1597-1608; William C. C. Claiborne to TJ, 1 July).
From William Lee Sir United States Consulate Bordeaux Sep 12. 1804 Having good reason to believe that the Wine which Mr Perrot sent you during my illness though very good was not of the growth you demanded & thinking it possible you may have exhausted that stock, I have taken the liberty to send you pr. the Ship Fabius Capt. Hughes of Alexandria bound to New York, three dozen of Chateaux Margaux, Six dozen of Rozan, and six dozen of Sauterne all of the growth of the year 1798 and which I believe will be found equal if not superior to any wines ever drank in the United States.—I have also shipped on board the same Vessel three Boxes containing Fruits in Brandy, Dried Fruits, and Comfitures as pr. Bill of Loading enclosed which I hope Sir you will do me the honor to accept of. These articles I should have sent much earlier by some Vessel bound to Norfolk Baltimore Phila. or N York had not the Captain of the Fabius told me some weeks since 382
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that he was bound direct to Alexandria: Having changed his Voyage I have addressed them to the Collector of the port of New York who no doubt will take the necessary precautions to forward them to the seat of Government. With great respect I am Sir yr obliged & obdt. St. Wm Lee RC (DLC); at head of text: “Triplicate”; at foot of text: “Mr Jefferson President of the U States”; endorsed by TJ as received 29 Dec. and so recorded in SJL.
Dupl (MHi); endorsed by TJ as received 30 Jan. 1805. Tripl (same). to the collector: see David Gelston to TJ, 24 Jan. 1805.
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Invoice for Wines and Food Invoice of Five Cases of Wine shipped on board the Ship Fabius Capt. Hughes bound to Newyork & consigned to the Collector of the Custom there on acct. of the President of the United States of America. TJ No 1 One Case contg. 36 bottles of Chauteaux Margaux of the year L 1798 at 1−31 D = 7 fs 252 — N 2 Two Cases contg. 72 bottles of Rozan of 1798 at .72 Cents = 4/10 324 — " 3 Two Cases contg. 72 bottles of Salus Sauterne at .36 cents = 45. s 10 162 — 738 — Charges 5 Cases 3/10 fs. 17.50 Porters & Boatmen 3. Permit & outward duty 20. 40 50 148.28 D = fs. 778 50 Memorandum of Preserved fruits put on board the said Vessel for the President of the United States— 1 Case contg. 10 flacons of Prunes damas blancs 10 Reine claude 10 Peaches 10 Chinois 10 Abricots 50 1 Case contg. 20 Pots of Gelées assorted 20 do. Fruits au Sucre 40 1 Case contg. 10 Cases Comfitures seches American Consulate Bordeaux 12 Sepr. 1804 Wm. Lee
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12 SEPTEMBER 1804 MS (MHi); amounts in dollars and cents added by TJ shown in italics. Dupl (same). In his account of wine purchased during his presidency, TJ designated this shipment for consumption at Monticello (mb, 2:1116).
flacons: that is, large bottles or decanters. Lee was using some French terms, such as reine claude, for small fruits like plums, which had been preserved in several ways: in brandy, as jellies, or coated in sugar (sucre).
From Abraham Bradley, Jr. Sir General Post Office Septemr. 13. 1804 Agreeable to the postmaster generals directions I have the honor to inclose the honble. John Stewarts letter of July 23rd to the Secretary of state complaining that the western mail is sent by a new route &c.—also a copy of the PM General’s letter of July 13th to Mr. Stewart and of my letter to him of August 9th. being the whole that we have written him on the subject. Mr. Stewarts complaint is 1st that the main Western mail is sent by a route other than the one by York, which he supposes unauthorised by law, & 2ndly that the carriage of the mail on part of a post road from York to Carlisle was discontinued. 1st. The act to establish the post office and postroads passed May 8. 1794 enacts “That the following be established as post roads namely”— “From Philadelphia, by Lancaster, Yorktown, Carlisle, Shippensburg, Chambersburg, Bedford and, Greensburg to Pittsburg”—“From Philadelphia by Norristown, Pottsgrove, Reading, Lebanon & Harrisburg to Carlisle”—And by an additional act passed April 23. 1800 the following was established “From Lancaster, by Elizabethtown and Middletown to Harrisburg, Sunbury & Northumberland”—By the sketch annexed it will be seen how these roads connect with each other, & that the mail from Philadelphia for Pittsburg & the western country may be sent by various routes with little difference in point of distance, & that mail carriers are employed on each. The words of the act go merely to designate various post roads, they no where require the postmaster general to include specific parts in one contract or require the mail for any portion to be carried by the same hand. Neither does it require that the particular mails from Philadelphia for Pittsburg shall be sent by any specific route. The 1st sect. of the act to establish the post office, among other things designates the duties of the postmaster general—“He shall provide for the carriage of the mail on all postroads that are or may be es 384
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tablished by law & as often as he having regard to the productiveness thereof and other circumstances shall think proper.” These are the only clauses or acts that relate to the subject. We consider that from Philadelphia by Lancaster Elizabethtown, Middletown & Harrisburg to Carlisle is as much a post road as from Philadelphia by Lancaster, & Yorktown to Carlisle & it has always been a practice to include such portions of post road in a particular contract without reference to the original act, as appears eligible. This is in a measure necessary to the due conveyance of the mail, for in the first establishment, many routes for want of direct roads or for the accomodation of particular places were made quite circuitous, & subsequent acts without discontinuing the bends have made near or cross routes from one bend to the other; whenever this has been the case the contracts have been made for the strait route, & seperate ones to accomodate the places on the bends. In this view it is considered that the postmaster general had a clear right to send the great western mail by Harrisburg in the manner that he has done. Mr. Stewart states that application was made to the last Congress for an act to direct the Western mail to be sent by Harrisburg & that it was not acted upon hence he infers that Congress considered that it ought to be continued by York. But if we consider that no act of congress ever required it to be conveyed by York, or ever was passed requiring any particular mail or mails to be conveyed by a specific road the inference if any must be that it was not considered a proper subject for congress to act upon, & that it was properly confided to the discretion of the postmaster general. When proposals for carrying the mail in stages between Lancaster & Pittsburg were first made, the proposers insisted upon running by Harrisburg and not by York. The postmaster general was aware that the citizens of York would be dissatisfied if the stages to the western country were not made to pass through that town, & therefore endeavoured to prevail on those who made the proposals to run that way but was unsuccessful. The two routes branch at Lancaster and meet at Carlisle; by our account the distance from Lancaster by Harrisburg to Carlisle, the route which is taken by the stages, is fifty three miles, and from Lancaster by York to Carlisle fifty nine miles, making a difference of six miles in favour of the former, & the proposers represented the quality of the road equally in its favour. But this was not the motive which governed the postmaster general, as he had only the alternative of contracting to carry in stages by the Harrisburg route or continuing it by the York route on horseback. The establishment of stages on great public roads is so important to the convenience 385
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of the public and to the security of the mail that he could not hesitate about acceding to the offer. A contract has accordingly been made for carrying the mail in stages from Lancaster by Harrisburg to Pittsburg for the term of four years commencing on the first day of July last. And I have good grounds for saying that it is very pleasing to a large portion of the citizens of Pennsylvania. 2nd. That the carriage of the mail on the part of a post road, from York to Carlisle was discontinued? In the 1st. section of the act to establish the post office, the postmaster general is authorised to “direct the route or road where there are more than one between places designated by law for a post road, which route shall be considered the post road.” From York to Carlisle there are several routes or roads, the mail has usually been carried on the nearest route through Dover, but this was never designated as the postroad by the postmaster general but it was left to the carriers to take which route they pleased, on this road there is no post office & I have not heard that there is any place where one would be useful. But by another road from York by Abbotstown, Berlin, the Sulphur Springs to Carlisle, there are two post offices, and the mail is already carried there; the distance by the nearest route being 37 miles & by this only 41 miles (according to our account); on this account the postmaster-general concluded to direct that this should be considered the postroad between York & Carlisle & that the mail should be sent upon it. The P.M.G. was the more induced to do this, because it was found there was very little correspondence carried on between York & Carlisle and that the whole value of postages in one quarter did not amount to seven dollars or to the rate of 28 dollars in a year. The reason for resuming the nearest road is assigned by the postmaster general in his letter to Mr. Stewart & the mail has been carried upon it once a week since the 15 August last. From the whole I think it will appear that the postmaster general has not exceeded his authority & while he has been attentive to the public interest he has been desirous to serve the citizens of York. An attack of the prevailing fever has prevented my forwarding the inclosed as soon as I ought to have done. I have the honor to be with much respect Abraham Bradley junr Assist. Postm. Genl RC (DNA: RG 59, MLR); at head of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 15 Sep. and
so recorded in SJL with notation “Post off.” Enclosures: (1) John Stewart to Madison, 23 July (same; see Enclosure
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13 SEPTEMBER 1804 No. 11 described at Madison to TJ, 4 Aug.). (2) Gideon Granger to Stewart, 13 July, responding to Stewart’s letter of 5 July regarding the change in mail routes; Granger states that the new route provides more convenience to Stewart’s fellow citizens and greater security to the public mail, and he assures Stewart that he has made arrangements for a mail stage to run between Lancaster and York three times weekly in summer and twice a week in winter; Granger further states that contrary to Stewart’s understanding, the postmaster general has a legal right to determine postal routes (Tr in DNA: RG 59, MLR). (3) Bradley to Stewart, 9
Aug., writing on behalf of Granger; Bradley reiterates Granger’s reasons for changing the postal route and defends in detail the postmaster general’s legal right to determine postal routes; Bradley repeatedly argues that the small amount of postage revenue generated from mail traveling between York and Carlisle does not warrant even a weekly mail route, but adds that in order to gratify the people of York, Granger is working toward contracting such a route, if it can be done under reasonable terms (Tr in same). directions: see Granger to TJ, 2 Sep.
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Map of Mail Routes in Pennsylvania
MS (DNA: RG 59, MLR); in Bradley’s hand; endorsed by Jacob Wagner: “Alteration of the route of the Main Western Mail from being carried through York to Harrisburg.”
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, New-Orleans September 13h, 1804. I have filled up the blank Commissions, which you committed to my Care, with the name of John Thibaut of New-Orleans, & I now enclose the Bond he has given, and the Oaths he has taken & subscribed, in manner as the Law directs.— Mr. John Thibaut is a Native Frenchman, and was highly recommended to me as a Man of Integrity and Information; He resided 387
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four years in the U. States, & for the last three years in this City; he is a married man; his Connections here are respectable, and his knowledge of the American Language, Laws & Customs served also to recommend him. The Fever in this City seems to encrease, but is certainly less malignant, than it was two Weeks ago; I find however, that it still proves fatal to many, and from the best information I can obtain the deaths average from 5 to 8 of a Day. The Troops removed into the Country are becoming healthy; But of those left in the City, (amounting to about Ninety including the sick in the Hospital) eleven have died in the course of the last 3 Days. Heretofore the Mortality has principally been confined to Strangers; But on yesterday, I was informed by a Physician that the old Inhabitants were becoming sickly, & that among them, he had met with several cases of the prevailing Fever. Since the warmpth of Summer commenced, I have employed in my office three Clerks, and on this morning, I find myself without an Assistant; all my young Men are sick and confined to their Beds. Mrs. Claiborne continues ill; her disease is now a violent Affection of the Liver, and in her enfebled State, no Medecine can prudently be administered, which would reach this Disorder;—Hopes however of her ultimate recovery, are yet entertained.— My own health is far from being restored; But I persuade myself from great care of my person, and a regular mode of Living, I shall avoid a Relapse.— Accept my best Wishes, & believe me to be— With great respect, Your faithful friend! William C. C. Claiborne RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 24 Oct. and so recorded in SJL; also endorsed by TJ: “Thibaut John. Collector.” Enclosures not found.
For the blank commissions for the customs appointment at Bayou St. John, see TJ to Claiborne, 7 July.
From Henry Dearborn Sir Gardiner, Distt. of Maine Septr. 13th. 1804. I have this morning been honourd with your letter of the 30th. ulto. enclosing five blank commissions for Commandants for uper Louisiana. It not having been usual heretofore to make out commissions to Officers of the Army until their appointments had been sanctioned by 388
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the Senate, it may be doubtfull whether a similar practice would not be adviseable in the present case. I presume that no inconvenience would result from pursuing the same line of conduct in this case, as has been observed in the appointments of Officers of the Army, that is, to notify each one officially from the Department of war of their respective appointments, with directions respecting the places of their destination & duties, requesting an answer whether they accept the appointment or not, which becomes a matter of record, and subsequent arrangements made accordingly. I do not so particularly recollect the provisions of the law in relation to these appointments as to be able to judge whether it will be strictly proper or not to execute commissions to these officers prior to the 1t. of October, but taking it for granted that you have fully concidered the subject, I must presume that the appointments may with propriety be made at present. if however on further reflection you should entertain any doubts on the subject it may be well to postpone the completion of the appointments until the 1t. of Octobr. at all events it will be desireable that the Gentlemen who will accept the appointments be requested to repair to their respective stations in season to meet their appointments as early as possible. I have received no answer from Col Hammond, nor shall I be able to deside on the acceptance of Gibs until I arrive in Boston, for which place I shall set out within two or three days. I have been induced to entertain some doubts of the propriety of appointing Gibs, from insinuations of intemperence. I shall endeavr. to satisfy myself fully, as soon as I arrive in Boston.—I understand that Mr. Hunt has so far depended on the appointment as mentioned to him last spring, as to have made the necessary arrangements for meeting it, and of course would be disappointed & mortified at not receiving it.—having heretofore understood you that these officers would not be actually appointed until the 1t. of octobr. I have been less attentive to the subject than I should otherwise have been. I concieve that no conciderable inconvenience will be experienced from a delay of a few days, or even weeks, but I may not have correctly concidered the subject.—as I shall necessarily be detained two or three days in Boston and a few days in Philadelphia, any communications you may make, on this or any other subject, directed to Genl. Muhlingburg at Philadelphia will probably meet me there. with respectfull consideration I am Sir Your Obedt. Servt. H. Dearborn RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the War Department on 1 Oct. and “Commandts. Louisa.” and so recorded in SJL.
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To Ferdinando Fairfax Dear Sir Monticello Sep. 13. 04. Your former letter proposing to sell to the public some accomodations for iron works having been referred to the department to which it belonged, I had taken for granted it had been answered in time. some accident probably prevented it. but our principle on that subject is that it is better for the public to procure at the common market whatever the market can supply: because there it is by competition kept up in it’s quality, and reduced to it’s minimum price. the public can buy there silver guns cheaper than they can make iron ones. as therefore private individuals can furnish cannon, shot &c. we shall never attempt to make them, nor consequently meddle with mines, forges, or any thing of that kind, to the superintendance of which the public functionaries are incompetent, even if they had leisure from more important affairs. certainly it would have been a great pleasure to me to have seen the public interest combined with your accomodation. With respect to the more immediate object of your letter of the 9th. inst. no man is less in condition to aid his friends pecuniarily than myself. I have always endeavored so to live as just to make both ends meet; but imperfect calculations disappoint that endeavor, and occasion deficiencies which accumulating, keep me always under difficulties. my resources of every kind have for some time been on the stretch so that I can with truth assure you that at this time they could not be made to place one thousand dollars at my command. under these circumstances I can only express unavailing regrets that it is not in my power to be useful to you: and with these tender you my assurances of great esteem and respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Ferdinando Fairfax esq.”; endorsed by TJ. former letter: see note at Fairfax to TJ, 9 Sep.
TJ had previously stated to Congress that it was his administration’s princi ple to rely upon the private market for military supplies (Vol. 36:499).
Petition of John McFarlane, with Jefferson’s Order To The President of the United States The petition of John McFarlane of the County of Alexandria, Humbly Sheweth. That your petitioner was at the last court for this County, convicted on an Indictment preferred against him and others 390
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for a riot; & fined Ten dollars and the Costs of prosecution, the whole of which amounts to upwards of Sixty dollars.—and That your petitioner is and has been for some time since confined in the Jail of this County—whear he labours under a complicated disease, in addition to the Miseries incidental to his situation—without the possible means of releving him self, as he is intirely unable to pay the sum for which he is confined.—Under Those circumstances he alone relies on the Clemincy of The President for an elioration of his distressfull situation, confidently believing That it is only necesary to convince the President of the truth of this statement to obtain the remission of his fine and the restoration of his Liberty Alexandria Jail 13th Sept. 1804. John Mcfarling At the request of the petitioner McFarlane I do hereby Certify I am well acquainted with him and am fully satisfied of his intire inability to pay the fine & Costs for which he is confined Alexandria 15th Sept. 1804. L Summers D Marshal District of Columbia September 17th 1804 We the Undersigned Judges of the Circuit Court of the district of Columbia, do, (on account of the inability of the Petitioner) respectfully recommend to the President of the United States to remit the fine as prayed W. Kilty W. Cranch. N; Fitzhugh [Order by TJ:] October 4th. 1804. Let a pardon issue
Th: Jefferson
The President is respectfully refered to the record sent up with the applycation of Geo. McFarland J. M. RC (DNA: RG 59, GPR); petition, certification, and postscript in Lewis Summers’s hand; petition signed by McFarlane; recommendation in William Kilty’s hand, signed by him, William Cranch, and Nicholas Fitzhugh; endorsed by TJ as received 20 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. The trial record identified John McFarlane as a laborer (Tr in same; see also petitions of George McFarlane, John Higdon, and John Orpwood at 15 Aug., 24
Nov., and 19 Dec., respectively). Although the signature on a second petition (see 10 Dec. below) is “Jno. McFarlane” rather than “John Mcfarling” and the handwriting of the signatures appears to differ, only one person of the name was among those tried in the case. let a pardon issue: TJ probably wrote this order here by mistake, intending it to refer to George McFarlane (see Petition of George McFarlane, 15 Aug., and TJ to the State Department, 4 Oct.).
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13 SEPTEMBER 1804 He did not issue a pardon for John McFarlane until December (see Petition of John McFarlane, 10 Dec.).
applycation of geo. mcfarland: Petition of George McFarlane, 15 Aug.
From William Alexander Respected Sir Charleston So Caro 14th September 1804 This (my Again Intrusion) I hope you will Excuse & pardon, A Letter I Addressed you some time since stating My Father being the Friend of Bishop White & My Uncle Jas Anderson American Consul up the Medetiraneean, appointed by your self, occasions me once again to Solicitate your patronage, Should my Former Letter not have been Received I pray your Excuse for this, Would you Sir Confer upon me Any Employement in this plase; Gratitude will ever be Acknowledged; In Respect to Character I would wish to Mention the following Gentlemen John Drayton, late Govener of this place the Late General Vander horst, the Venerable Genl Moultrie, (our Late Senator) Genl Reid and his Brother in Law Major Simons, would you Sir Give An Employment; In every Respect it Shall be most faithfully fullfilled; being brought up to Public business, but the Losses I have Sustained Occasions me now to Solicitate your patronage, with Respect to the Family of my Deceased Parents you can Learn by my Uncle, (James Anderson)1 my Father was Born at Pennsylvania My Brother Alexander Alexander (who has lost his life in defence of the United States) was One of the First Midship Men Appointed by our Late President John Adams, by the Carracter given of him by Major Thomas Pinckney, Allow me Respected Sir to mention the Venerable Genl Christoper Gadsden, will Give you an Account of my Birth with that of Conduct and Family, The following Entreaty I pray may be Excused, but I most Humbly Request that Mr Jefferson will grant this my most Humble petition, being A Person of Family, occasions me to solicitate some Situation in the State of South Carolina, of any Little Emolument With Every Esteem Respected Sir I Remain with due Since of your Philanty William Alexander Could Mr. Jefferson find A Vacancy at any of the ports of the United States, the wishes of this his Humble petitioner Requests to be Rememberd; I pray for Pardon to Intrude upon Your Indulgence, The Honble Judge, William Johnson Junr, one of the Judges of the Supreme Court, can give every necessary Information Respecting me, 392
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he being A fellow Scholar under the Tuition of my father 2 and at the Moment Guardian for my sisters, who are Orphans RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and “for emploiment” and so recorded in SJL.
1 Opening parenthesis supplied by the Editors. 2 Preceding six words interlined.
letter i addressed you: Alexander to TJ, 8 Feb.
From John Cockle Respected Sir New York Septemr. 14 1804 Particular Circumstances & those of a most delicate nature. the Support of an Amiable Wife with two Children will I presume Serve as a Sufficient appology for the liberty I take in asking of you Such information as you may chuse to bestow on the Subject of that part of the late Treaty with France touching the Claims recognised & for which provision was made by Congress at the last Session— I have one that the Treaty in the first article Embraces & I Wish to know of you Sir whether any & what orders were given to Genl Armstrong to immediately put an End to this tedious & ruinous business— I have been waiting in anxious Expectation to receive my bills agreeable thereto, this long time. I have been informed that Mr Livingston had resolved not to proceed untill he had the Opinion & direction of the President of the U.S. how to act—If I have deviated from the proper line of requiring information of the President he will I presume ascribe it not to improper motives of respect— With Sentiments of the most perfect Consideration. I have the Honor to be Sir your very Hble Servant Jno Cockle RC (DNA: RG 76, French Spoliations); at foot of text: “His Excellency T. Jefferson Esqe. P.US.”; endorsed by TJ as received 18 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. John Cockle (d. 1827) was a New York City merchant who did business in Charleston, South Carolina, during the 1790s. During the Quasi-War, Cockle had a cargo of coffee seized from a ship, as well as property held at Bordeaux (New
York American, 4 Oct. 1827; Greg H. Williams, The French Assault on American Shipping, 1793-1813 [Jefferson, N.C., 2009], 97; Cockle to TJ, 17 Dec. 1807, RC in DLC). On 8 Oct., Madison wrote to Cockle to inform him that the administration had instructed John armstrong to follow up on American claims against France (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:139).
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From John Monroe Sir. Staunton Septr. 14th. 1804. The subject of this letter will be different from any I have had the honor of addressing to you; and it is one, I never would have writtin on, to any Gentleman, but from the most imperious necessaty. I do request you will no longer consider me a solicitor for any office. My poverty & my misery, combined with my Democratical principles, (were I to receive from you an appointment) will afford additional cause to the hireling agents of your enemies, to calumniate and abuse you; the Odium of which, will more or less injure my fealings, & perhaps affect any interest. I never was very ambitious in my prosperity; and I am now so oppressed & depressed, as not to harbour a wish to do more, than, to maintain myself and family in a plain & honest station. My prospect for procuring the necessaries of life in this country, is desperate and dreary. I am now cast adrift on the ocian of society without the means of making an harbour: Nor have I one shilling to enable me to fill an hungry stomach. The limits of a Jail have cut me off from the power of labouring: and the frowns of the world never have failed to pursue the miserable. Here I can stay no longer. I have therefore turned my humble views towards the Mississippi. There, thro the benevolence of a virtuous & humane stranger (Capt. Sparks) I have some hope. This Gentleman possesses a farm, (which is well stocked) about fifty miles above the Natches; his military profession prevents his residence thereon: He has offered me the use & occupation of it, provided I can remove to that country. I am now placed in a painfull dilema. I must either remain here, & encounter poverty misery & scorn; or I must assume the humble posture of beging assistance from the benevolence of Man. Want, the cruel want of bread, with all its horrors, will not suffer me to hesitate. I will, then, address the humanity of society. I will (in the humility of my distress) say to you Sir, I am a man, a human being, who is wreatched, I am one of Gods creatures, whose wants are real & pressing, I have been imprisoned and oppressed, I have combated adversity with courage, and I want three or four hundred Dollars to remove me & my children to a place where our honest labour will supply us with food & raiment. You are able to lend me that sum, I claim it from your benevolence. Can I doubt your morallity? no! I will not. The future comfort of my smiling children, and the peacefull & humble content of my gray hairs, will be so many Orisons of gratitude offered to the throne of a benign heaven, for a 394
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continuance of its blessings on you! And I shall have the exquisite and gratefull pleasure of returning again to you, the heaven inspired benevolent loan. But, Sir, should pecuniary assistance be out of your power, (and you do not deem it improper) you may so arrange matters, as to enable Capt. Richd. Sparks to remove my family when he marches his troops from this country. This he can do at a small, very small expence, and I have no doubt he will do it, if he shall be so authorised If I shall fail, (which heaven avert, & I cannot believe) and I find friendship hath become the handmaid to interest, & that benevolence, in disgust, has quitted the Earth, and sought his native heaven, I have nothing left, but to plunge my Soul into eternity, & rely on the mercies of a benign God. I am Sir, with due respect yr. Obdt. Servt. Jno. Monroe RC (DLC); addressed: “The President of the United States”; franked; endorsed by TJ as received 22 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. solicitor for any office: Monroe had most recently requested appointment to office in New Orleans (Monroe to TJ, 11 Sep. 1803, 16 Jan. 1804).
Richard sparks was an officer with the Third Regiment of Infantry (Heitman, Dictionary, 1:909; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 5:572-3). lend me that sum: in 1809, Monroe wrote to TJ of his regret over this request for financial aid (rs, 1:405-6).
From Robert Smith Sir, Balt. Sep. 14. 1804— In answer to your favor of the 6th. I have to inform you that the Gun Boats are building at Boston, New-York, Philada, Balt. Washington Norfolk, Charleston & Savannah. I have found it would have been hazarding too much to attempt the building of them at any places excepting those where there were Navy agents, skilful superintendants & experienced Naval Constructors. After we shall have well satisfied ourselves as to the best model, we may have some built upon the Western Waters. And in that case an experienced person must be sent thither to superintend their construction. A circular letter some time since was sent to the several building places urging in strong terms the necessity of the utmost despatch. At Balt the Boat, it is expected, will be finished early in November. At the other places they ought to be ready sooner. I am, however, now preparing another circular to the several agents stating when the Boat will be built at Balt and expressing my expectation that all will be completed about the same time. 395
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As to the state of things at New-York I am, Sir, inclined to hope that some strong equinoctial rain will in the Course of this month force for a time the Brittish frigetes from our Shores and thus open a way for the departure of the French. And in this way we may and probably will be relieved from our present embarrassment. It is strange that so enlightened a government as that of Great Brittain should at such a crisis of her affairs continue these vexatious practices. I am pleased with the list of the Officers for our new Country. It is respectable and will, I think, have a Conciliating tendency. It is my intention to be at Washington about the first day of next Month;—but should it be necessary, I will with pleasure attend at an earlier day. Respectfully, Sir, I am Your Obt. Servt. Rt Smith RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 18 Sep. and “gunboats. N.O. officers” and so recorded in SJL. the boat: Gunboat No. 5 was launched at Baltimore in November (Spencer C. Tucker, The Jeffersonian Gunboat Navy [Columbia, S.C., 1993], 182-3). departure of the french: in early June, the French frigates Didon and Cybele arrived in New York City with the intention of escorting Jerome Bonaparte back to France. The British warships Cam-
brian, Driver, and Leander quickly blockaded the city, preventing their escape. Over the course of the summer, the French made several failed attempts to leave the harbor and elude the Royal Navy, including one in late August, until they were eventually successful in getting to sea in November without the Bonapartes (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:332-3, 641-2; W. T. R. Saffell, The BonapartePatterson Marriage in 1803 [Philadelphia, 1873], 89-93; Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser, 31 Aug.; New-York Commercial Advertiser, 8 Nov.).
From Joseph Yznardi, Sr. Respected Sir. Cadiz 14th. September 1804. With your Excellencys most valued and esteemed favour of the 19th. July, I have received the Bill your Excelly. was so obliging to remit me for $200 drawn by James Madison Esqre. my order on Mr. James Maury of Liverpool which I have negociated with Messrs. Gordon & Co. at the Exchange of 36¼ d. $ makg. £stg 39. 16.s 10½d not doubting of it being punctualy paid. Knowing by positive reports that Mr. Pinckney is daily expected here to take passage for America, and that at Madrid no Person whatsoever remains to act in his absence; I thought it my duty and very proper to offer him my Services (as I intend going to Madrid next month) to act in his absence, and untill another reemplaces him, which I shall do in case he admits of my offer to the utmost of my 396
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TJ
power to give content and compleat Satisfaction; leaving my Vice Consul Mr. Anthony Terry at the head of this Consulship, which I hope will be to the entire Satisfaction of all our Citizens as heretofore. Agreable to your Excellencys orders I have shipped as the inclosed Bill Lading for 1 Butt of dry Pacharetti Wine of first Quality the American Ship Hindostan Capt. John Mc.Farlane bound to Philadelphia, and Consigned to Mr. Chandler Price of said Port, subject to your Excellencys orders—I also inclose the Original Invoice from the House of Sherrys amounting to $200 which agreable to your Excellencys orders I have drawn this day for a favour of Mr. Anty. Terry at 30 days Sight. Spanish Dolls. $194.₁−⁸− ₀⁵₀ −. The Sickness at Malaga continues augmenting in a terrible manner, 400. Inhabitants were swept off on the 10 inst. With Sentiments of the highest esteem and veneration I am most Sincerely Respected Sir Your most obt. hble Servt. Josef Yznardy RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Yznardi; at foot of text: “To His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esqre President of the U.S. of America Washington”; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: bill of lading, Jerez, 14 Sep., for one butt of “supr. dry Paxarette wine” from Gordon & Co., shipped by the ship Hindostan, Captain McFarlane, for New York (MS in same, TJ Papers, 143:24878). Enclosed invoice not found. drawn this day: although not enclosed here, Yznardi’s draft on TJ for
$194.85 ended up in TJ’s hands. On 13 Nov., Anthony Terry endorsed the bill of exchange over to “Capt. Jno. Dickey.” Dickey endorsed the bill over to Mead & Jenkins, a Savannah firm that in turn endorsed it over to James Jackson. TJ paid Jackson on 2 Mch. 1805 (MS in same, 143:24882, signed by Yznardi and endorsed by Terry, Dickey, Mead & Jenkins, and Jackson as “Reced in full”; Columbian Museum & Savannah Advertiser, 7 Nov.; mb, 2:1146; James Jackson to TJ, 1 Mch. 1805).
To Carlos Martínez de Irujo Sir Monticello Sep. 15. 04. Your letter of the 7th. inst. came to hand on the 14th. only, by which it seems to have lost a post by the way. this therefore cannot be in Washington but on the evening of the 17th. no information has been recieved from mr Pinckney of the character which your letter supposes. the latest we have from him inclosed a letter to him from M. de Cevallos in a tone not as friendly as heretofore used by that minister towards us, more suited, as we thought, to the close of an unsuccesful discussion, than the beginning of a friendly one, and not 397
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calculated to impress a nation whose intentions are just but firm and unyielding to any other motive than justice. what followed the reception of that letter is entirely unknown to us; & what we have seen in the public papers was so little like what would flow from any thing done on our part, or expected from yours, that we have given no credit to it. the state of things between us seems indeed to require unreserved explanations, cool & calm discussion, to avoid those evils which neither party probably intends, yet unfounded jealousies and suspicions may beget. these discussions should regularly be between yourself & the Secretary of state: but, a friend to the substance of business, & disregarding all forms which obstruct the way to it, I agree with readiness to the direct & personal interview you propose; and shall recieve you here with pleasure at your earliest convenience, as I am to leave this place for Washington on the 26th. or 27th. instant. being totally uninformed of what has past, I must rely on you to bring any documents or other papers which may be necessary to present a full view of the subject of communication. Mrs. Randolph will be happy in the opportunity of paying her respects to the Marchioness Yrujo at Monticello, & of contributing her attentions to render the time we may possess her here as agreeable as she can. she joins me in respects to the Marchioness, and I add my friendly salutations to yourself, & assurances of great consideration & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Marquis de Casa-Yrujo.”
latest we have from him: see Madison to TJ, 28 Aug.
To William Jackson Sir Monticello Sep. 15. 04. I have recieved your letters of the 7th. and 9th. instant, and shall use their contents in due time & place for the benefit of our country. as you seem sufficiently apprised that the person of the Marquis Yrujo is under the safeguard of the nation, & secured by it’s honor against all violation, I need add nothing on that head. on another however I may be permitted to add that if the information respecting a letter said to have been written by me was meant as a sample of the communications proposed to be given to you, their loss will not be great. no such letter was ever written by me, by my authority, or with my privity. with my acknoledgements for the communication I tender you my salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Majr. William Jackson.”
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From Jones & Howell Respected Friend Phila. 15th Sept. 1804 We recvd Yours of the 4th and in reply we admit we inform’d You that there would be no difficulty in procuring Sheets of Iron of the dimensions You descrb’d we did so on the Authority of one of the manufacturers of the Article, but he now retracts his assertion, and we have tryd all the others to no purpose. One of them who has furnish’d the principal part of all the Iron for roofs of houses informs us that he never pretended to roll it to any particular breadth or length but as near A thickness as possible as A workman Could put it together, of any Size. the Sheets of Iron we sent you before were English. there are none of the same kind here at present but if Common Size Sheet Iron will answer we can send it direct if not we must try to procure Such as You want by some means or other or as near as we Can obtain it We are Respectfully Yours Jones & Howell RC (MHi); at head of text: “Thomas Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ as received 20 Sep. and so recorded in SJL.
To Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Monticello Sep. 15. 04. Your letter containing the Spiral spring was recieved in due time. a mode of constructing your polygraph which might render it more portable occurred to me and as it took me less time to give verbal directions to my workmen for a model, than to make a drawing for you, I have had a model made which I send you by this post. it is of half size in all it’s dimensions, whence you will see that in full size it will not be larger than a very moderate portfolio. whether any or all it’s parts may be of any use, you will judge. I was not satisfied whether the admitting the North side to have a sideling motion, preserving it’s parallelism, & also a North & South motion, might not be found useful, & therefore the interior hole in the brace is made. it will require inkpots with effective stoppers for travelling, which are easily made. If the publication of the 6. lines of my letter of Aug. 19. will be of service to you, certainly they are at your service. but as they were hastily & carelessly written be so good as to strike out ‘I only lament &c. to ‘possession,’ and insert instead of it ‘I only regret it had not been invented 30. years sooner, as it would have enabled me to 399
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preserve copies of my letters during the war, which to me would now have been a consoling possession.’ let me know whether the idea of the model answers and accept my friendly salutations. Th: Jefferson RC (TxU); at foot of text: “Mr. Peale.” PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ.
your letter: Peale to TJ, 27 Aug.
From John Wayles Eppes Dear Sir, Eppington Sep. 16th. 1804. Our trip has been delayed so far beyond my expectations that I am induced again to write fearing you may feel some uneasiness—We have at length fixed on Friday next for setting out, but as my mother has determined to call on Mr. Baker who has been very much injured by a fall from his chair & is still confined, it will probably be tuesday before we reach Monticello— My children continue in perfect health—Accept for yourself and all at Monticello the best wishes of affection— Yours Sincerely Jno: W: Eppes PS. I forward this by the way of Petersburg to which place an opportunity offers today— JWE. RC (ViU: Edgehill-Randolph Papers); endorsed by TJ as received 20 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. mr. baker: possibly Jerman Baker of Cumberland County, whose wife, Martha
Bolling Eppes Baker, was the niece of TJ’s wife. Their son, John Wayles Baker, became a close friend of TJ’s grandson Francis Wayles Eppes (rs, 6:65n; 9:278n).
From Thomas Leiper Dear Sir Philada. Septr. 16th. 1804 I have just seen a letter where in was mentioned that Callender Irwin would not be appointed to the office held by his father but Colonel Samuel Miles would—I think you had better pause before you put the seal to this commission for the following reasons—Colonel Miles is too old he was an officer in the war of 55 & 62 and more over Colonel Ferguson who saw him some time ago (as for my part I have not seen him Ten times these Ten Years) says he is quite emaciated if Colonel Miles is appointed it most be a perfect senecure for clear I am he is not able to perform the duties of it—Inglis who is the store 400
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keepper in that department and is appointed by General Dearborn for the time being to supperintend General Irwin’s place. He has behaved very much a miss to Mrs. Irwin—He sent a Common Drayman without a single tine for the Books and papers I believe the very next day after the General was put in the Ground1 and could not be convinced of the impropriety of this measure till Mr. Dallas wrote him a letter—and then it was some time before he would pay any attention to his opinion—I understand that Irwin & Englis office are a Check on each other—Englis may hoble along as a second in his senecure of twelve Hundred Dollars pr Annum—I call it a senecure because I know that Englis follows his old business as measurer of Carpenters work and believe me it is very proffitable one for to my certain knowledge the two Houses the Corner of Eleventh Street came to Two Hundred Dollars:—The business was done by Two men in a Week or Two—you have past your word I suppose that Colonel Miles shall succeed General Irwin if that should be so you had better reconsider it for I am certain Miles can only want this thing for his son who has married Englis daughter the History I have had of this man is that he takes too much brandy—Colonel Miles cannot accept of the office and do the duties without a sacrifice He has in Centreville County an Iron Furnace on a large scale he has a Slitting & Rolling Mill about Ten Miles from this city where he now lives—He is concerned in the Glass House here what the proffits of that Business may be I know not but this I know I purchase of them every year snuff Bottles to the Amount of Three Thousand Dollars and to add to thier imployment this company has lately errected a steel furnace and I am of the opinion the Principal part of the funds must be Colonel Mile’s—After this and what I have stated in my former letters I hope you will put it in my power to retain the same opinion of you I have always had which was to provide for men of most Merit and most in want—The letter I have just seen has brought to my remembrance what past between the Old Fox our Governor and myself—I applied to him for a letter to you in favor of Callender Irwin for the place his father held the answer was older men should be appointed and that Callender was too young and that he had given him a place as good as the one his father held by the bye this is about as near the truth as 2700 Dollars is to One Hundred & Fifty pr Annum—I informed him he was Twenty Nine and fit for any thing—I went further I told we wanted young men and men of spirit and put him in remembrance of Hamilton’s Dying Speech when he expected to be called into the Field—Hamilton is dead but the Party still lives—Suppose you appoint Colonel Miles he when wanted is Ten Miles from Town and sick and not able to move— 401
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Englis Hipshot and in his best days I think his command should never exceed a sergeant’s Guard—I hope you will consider what you are about as a Citizen I protest against it suppose Hamiltons party comes on and Dayton some years ago told Mr. Dallas it would come to the Bayonet—their first object would be the arms—Then figure to yourself the other party in Possession of the Arms—I do think the Governors family is very well provided for in this State—His son Joseph is attorney General of the State—that was a Reward for offering the services of his troop to John Adams—His Nephew who nobody ever saw till the Governor brought him into being He is secretary of the state—Three other nephews have appointments some where and his son in Law Alderman and Vendue Master all is now provided for but his son Thomas but I never imagined he could be so barefaced as to travel into your department to procure an office for his son Joseph’s father in Law—The Governors Popularity is traveling fast from him his injudicious appointments to office lately is the Principle cause and his procuring this office of you for Colonel Miles will help him along I am most respectfully Your most Obedient St. Thomas Leiper RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 22 Sep. and “Miles. Irwin” and so recorded in SJL. inglis: George Ingels (see Ingels to TJ, 5 Oct.). his nephew: Thomas McKean appointed his nephew, Thomas McKean Thompson, secretary of the commonwealth
in 1801 (G. S. Rowe, Thomas McKean, The Shaping of an American Republicanism [Boulder, Colo., 1978], 321). his son joseph’s father in law: Joseph B. McKean was married to Samuel Miles’s daughter Sarah (Rowe, McKean, 266). 1
Preceding 14 words interlined.
To Levi Lincoln Dear Sir Monticello Sep. 16. 04. It will be necessary to lay before Congress the aggressions of the British vessels before the harbour of New York. for this purpose it will be necessary in the first place to examine all the cases, and to class them according to the principle of the aggression, and secondly to prepare a succinct statement of them, for I believe that would be more proper than to furnish them the documents. they are not called on to legislate on each case, for then they should enquire into it specifically, but are told by the Executive that such things have happened, in order that they may pass laws to prevent such in future. As the American Citizen of N.Y. has kept a steady eye on them and stated 402
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the cases I have cut them out of the paper, and now inclose them to you; as they will give you more time to consider the cases, and an opportunity perhaps of consulting your own library on questionable points. authentic documents & fuller information on every case will be ready for you at Washington; for which place I set out on the 27th. inst. The Spanish minister here seems to have found means of exciting his court considerably on the act for establishing a port of entry on the Mobile: and something serious has past between Pinckney & them of which we are not informed. I take for granted that such circumstances as these will be easily allayed by good humor and reason, between reasonable men. the new administration in England is entirely cordial. there has never been a time when our flag was so little molested by them in the European seas, or irregulatities there so readily & respectfully corrected. as the officers here began their insults before the change, it is a proof it did not proceed from that change. we must expect however unequivocal measures from them to prevent such things in future, while Congress should enable us to arrest them by our own means, and not expose us to pass such another year of insulted jurisdiction. Accept my affectionate salutations & assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (MHi: Lincoln Collection); at foot of text: “Levi Lincoln esq.” PoC (DLC). Enclosures not found, but see below. James Cheetham’s Republican newspaper, american citizen, published a
series of reports on the British detention of American ships “within the Hook,” including eyewitness accounts of several attacks and reprints of letters defending British actions (New York American Citizen, 7, 17, 22, 29 Aug.).
From John Page Dear Sir Williamsburg Sepr. 16th. 1804 Nothing but my wish & expectation of presenting myself to you at Monticello, instead of an Answer to your Favor of the 16th. Ulto. (which did not come to hand, as I had left Richmond, ’till after I had arrived at York) could have induced me to delay the acknowledgment of its receipt a single day. I now sincerely lament my disappointment! The extreme heat of the weather, & my little Son’s bad state of health from day to day deterred me from setting out on our return to Richmond ’till yesterday. I am now with my Family at Mr. Bracken’s where the same obstacles to our Journeying are again thrown in our way, & will probably detain us two or three days. I therefore now can no longer refrain from apologizing for my long seeming inattention to your very friendly letter. 403
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We intend to halt but a few days in Richmond before we set out to Monticello. Should any untoward Circumstances occur to deprive us of this pleasure before the too near approach of the time of your intended return to Washington, we promise that in the next Year, if possible, we will make ourselves amends for this deprivation. I thank you for the perusal of Dr. Rush’s Letter, & now return it, as I cannot be certain when I can deliver it. I was several Years past convinced by reading Ingram on the Plague & Yellow Fever, that Lazarettos & Quarantine might produce malignant Fevers, but that they had not, & never could prevent the introduction of them. And I have always understood that the Yellow Fever of the W. Indies is not contagious: and I agree with several Physicians amongst my Friends who concur in Opinion with Dr. Rush respecting the Origin & nature of the Philada. Yellow Fever. But is not the Dr. mistaken in supposing that it will be more injurious to the Population & Commerce of our Country to propagate a belief amongst foreigners that the Yellow Fever in the united States owes its appearance therein uniformly to a foreign importation of its Contagion, than to impress on them an Opinion that it is “an Endemic Pestilence”? If Foreigners can be induced to believe that the Yellow Fever has its Origin here, & can not be prevented but by an Attention to Cleanliness, & certain precautions, to which the disposition of our People is not adapted; I should suppose they would be less willing to venture here, than when they believed that it never originates here, but is always imported, & that by the Vigilance & Power of Government the Importation of it may be prohibited. But although I believe with Ingram that the Plague cannot be brought here from Algiers, & doubt whether the Yellow Fever can be brought from the Wt. Indies & may think that therefore a Quarantine established with a View to prevent the introduction of either of those diseases may be unnecessary, it does appear to me prudent to establish a kind of tempory (I mean for a short time) Quarantine in the hot & sickly Season for the purpose of examining into the State of the Crews & Vessels coming in from the West Indies or from any other Place, because a most malignant Fever has been produced from the Filth & confined Air of Vessels, as well as from that of the old Bailey—You remember the Allusion. You know a deadly Feaver was propagated by the Prisoners—The Crew of a Ship, like the Prisoners may enjoy a partial Health, but may spread death & Pestilence around them, without the precautions to which I have just alluded; & which happily the improvements of modern Chemistry have abundantly furnished. 404
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Excuse my very dear Friend, this hasty Scrawl, written in the midst of my Children, & whilst the Family are waiting for me below. Mrs. Page has requested me to present with mine her best respects to yourself, Mr. Mrs. Randolph & Family. Believe me most sincerely Yours John Page RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 22 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: see TJ to Page, 16 Aug. Dale ingram was discussing plagues when he wrote that they were ineffectively contained by lazarettos and quarantine, but he implied that the same was true of yellow fever, which he contended had similar characteristics (Dale Ingram, An Historical Account of the Several Plagues That Have Appeared in the World since the Year 1346 [London, 1755], 85, 97, 120). origin & nature: both Ingram and Benjamin Rush held that yellow fever had domestic origins and was not imported by ships. Ingram argued that the disease flourished in Barbados because of its hot, moist climate and the “gross matter” car-
ried in by winds. Rush contended that it was spread through a combination of filth, heat, and moisture (Ingram, Historical Account of the Several Plagues, 114; Benjamin Rush, Observations upon the Origin of the Malignant Bilious, or Yellow Fever in Philadelphia, and upon the Means of Preventing It: Addressed to the Citizens of Philadelphia [Philadelphia, 1799], 9). In London in 1750, the old bailey courtroom fell victim to disease brought in by prisoners from the overcrowded Newgate jail. Approximately 50 people died, including lawyers, four judges, and the Lord Mayor, from what was later determined to be endemic typhus (Jerry White, A Great and Monstrous Thing: London in the Eighteenth Century [Cambridge, Mass., 2013], 452).
From Edmund Randolph Richmond Sepr. 16. 1804.
E. Randolph, with best respects, to Mr. Jefferson. Yesterday your suit with Johnson was tried; when the judge declared it to be perfectly clear in your favor, and dismissed the bill. Johnson’s counsel said, that she1 should make no remarks in opposition to the decree. I presume, therefore, that an appeal is not meditated. If it be so, the present result can never be varied. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 20 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. For details on the land dispute between TJ and Richard johnson, see Statement
on the Legal Action against Richard Johnson, 21 May. 1 Thus
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in MS.
From Francis Abraham Honourd; Sir Orange Springs 17th: Septr 1804 At this time I am in very Great Distress and Now Sir Beg your assistance if you please I am oweing abought one hundred and Forty Dollars and have no way of Raising it without Borrowing it. and I thinke you to be the moste proper Gentleman of my acquaintances to aske a Favour of that Kinde of if you will be so Good as to Lende me one hundred and Fifty Dollars untill march next you Shall Surely have the money on the First Day of March; there is not as much money Due me in the General post office or I would not aske it of you, and I do not Like to aske them for money when they Do not owe me, your compliance will much oblige your Moste obdt Servant Francis Abraham P.S. Sir you will please to answer me at the orange Springs F. Abm. RC (MHi); endorsed by TJ as received 18 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. Francis Abraham was postmaster of Orange Springs, Virginia. Gideon Granger
later hired him to carry the mail from Coweta in the Lower Creek country to New Orleans (Stets, Postmasters, 18, 90; Terr. Papers, 5:395; 9:418; Vol. 36:154-5n).
From Ebenezer Blachly, Jr. Much Estimed Freind the 17 of the 9 month 1804 Thy freind though unknown to the, takes a liberty of troubling the with a few lines, for the sake of injured humanity—It is true I do not approve of War, or the idea of any man being a soldier—But if it is right for any Goverment to go to war; I presume it is right that an invaled should be decently supported for his serveses in the last—this is not the case with my neighbour Capt Daniel Baldwin—It is true he has half pay (as the saying is) but that is not the truth for he wants the half rations—He has an amiable family a wife and six children; and wants one of his legs: I need not ask the how he is enabled by the Goverment to support them—Judge for thyself—The humanity of thy nature I trust is such If war is right the last one was as niarly so as any and thou wilt be induced to put that man in some garrison, if in thy power, whare he may be of use to his contry and inable him to support his family in a dcent manner, which is now impossible for him to do—I shall only add, I have reason to believe, that he once has had the confidence of General Washington; and been trusted with many 406
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important things on the Lines as well as important Last;—Should thou think will of doing some thing that will benifit him, and his family in this or any other way, thou thinkest best; thou wilt confer a favour on thy freind; and do much good to those who I think have a clame on thy Humanity—or at least on his country— From thy freind Ebenr. Blachly Junr RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 14 Oct., but recorded in SJL as received 13 Oct. with notation “W” altered to “N.” The son of a physician, Ebenezer Blachly, Jr. (1760-1812), entered his father’s profession at an early age, serving
as a surgeon’s mate and assistant surgeon during the American Revolution. After the war, he settled in Paterson, New Jersey, where he established a successful practice (Stephen Wickes, History of Medicine in New Jersey, and of Its Medical Men, From the Settlement of the Province to A.D. 1800 [Newark, N.J., 1879], 152-5).
To Gideon Fitz Dear Sir Monticello Sep. 17. 04. Mr. Dinsmore shewed me part of a letter from you in which you mention that a part of the Mammoth bones which Capt Lewis had lodged for me at Natchez were still recoverable, and that you would be so good as to undertake it if desired. you will render me a very acceptable service if you will be so good as to do it, and send them to the care of mr Trist at N. Orleans to be forwarded to me to the care of Jefferson & Gibson in Richmond as they are intended to be brought to this place. I think they should be packed in a strong box, the expence of which I will remit you as soon as made known, and any others which may be incurred. having hardly been from home since I came here, I am not able to inform you of your friends in this neighborhood, but the fact is that there is no sickness in the neighborhood. we have never known a more healthy season. about the time of your recieving this mr Richardson will be calling on you on his way down to N. Orleans, having lately arrived from Jamaica. Accept my friendly salutations & best wishes. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Mr. Gideon Fitz.” Meriwether lewis informed TJ of his intent to send fossil samples collected at Big Bone Lick, Kentucky, to Natchez in a letter of 3 Oct. 1803. Thomas Rodney reported in a long letter, which TJ likely never received, that many of the bones
“were broken and taken off or otherwise lost for want of Care” and subsequently informed Charles Willson Peale that the only box saved from the sinking of the boat that carried the fossils was “broken open, by the Tennessee Militia, then in Natchez” (Jackson, Lewis and Clark, 1:132n; Vol. 41:464, 468n; Rodney to TJ, 23 Apr. and 24 May; Fitz to TJ, 19 Oct.).
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From Étienne Lemaire Monsieur, Washington Sity du 17 [Sep.] 1804 ausitot recue la lettre que vous mavez adressé. Je la Énvoyé a Sa destination par J’oseffe, le pauvre J’ardiniez est mort, miserablement y lia quatre Semainne De la fievre Billeuse, Son Épouse est Bien malade de Même, que toute Sai Énfeant, Joseffe Sai apersûe que Cette M’aleureuse famille Étoiet d’ant l’a plus grande Detresse poin de Secour de personne, ainsi mr. Connoisant Vottre Semsibetez pour les pauvre J’eance qui N’on poin De Sucxitance, J’ai prie la libertez de leur Énvoÿé qu’el Que dous Ceur qui leur sera Je Sui Sur de grand Service— Jespair monsieur, que vous Jouisez d’une Bonne Sentez, Et Vottre Respectable famille; tous votre monde Se porte bien ide a Et eut la fiever 3. oux 4. Semainnes; presentement elle Va mieux. y lia Beaucoupe de maladit d’ant la Sity—de même que partoute les Campagne; Je Sui inquiette pr. le Charbon tere; monsieur Je Bien lhonneur de vous Salué Je fini avecque un Sincer atachement, votre tres hunble obeisant Serviteur, Etienne Lemaire e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Sir, Washington City, 17 [Sep.] 1804 I just received the letter you sent me and forwarded it with Joseph to its destination. The poor gardener died miserably of bilious fever four weeks ago. His wife is very ill as well as all his children. Joseph saw that this unfortunate family is in the greatest distress with no help from anyone. Knowing your compassion for poor people without sustenance, Sir, I took the liberty of sending them some sweets which I am sure will help them greatly. I hope, Sir, that you are in good health and that everyone in your estimable family is well. Edy had the fever for three or four weeks but she is better now. There is much illness in the city and everywhere in the countryside. I am worried about the coal. Sir, I have the honor of greeting you. I conclude with my sincere attachment, your very humble and obedient servant, Etienne Lemaire RC (MHi); partially dated; endorsed by TJ as a letter of 17 Sep. received 20 Sep. and so recorded in SJL. la lettre: most likely TJ’s letter to gardener Robert Bailey of 9 Sep. If TJ wrote a covering note to Lemaire, it has not been found and is not recorded in SJL.
j’oseffe: that is, coachman Joseph Dougherty. ide: Edith (Edy) Fossett, one of TJ’s enslaved workers, was a cook on the President’s House staff at this time (mb, 2:1137; Vol. 39:405n).
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From Thomas M. Potter Esteemed Friend Trenton 17th of 9 mo. (Sept.) 1804 The great desire, I have that we should keep as clear of War as posiable, will be my excuse, for troubling thee with this scrawl, relative to the existing differences, between the United States & Spain, I have always been antious that the waters necessary for the navigation of the Citizens of the U, States should be free, and watched with care the measures of Government respecting the Missipi. On mature reflection, am clearly convinced, that it will be best for us to have no more Territory beyound the Missipi than what is necessary to secure the Navigation; now to ascertain, extend, establish, & maintain the Frontiers of as expicted for Luisiania, would be expencive, troublesom, dangerous and consequently impolitic in the highest degree;— But to obtain east and west Floridas, would be the reverse: And from existing circumstances, I have no doubt but that the Spaniards would give, the Floridas, the Iland of Neworleans, and the necessary cites to secure the navigation, with a considerable part of the purchase of Luisiania, for the remainder of that Province—much more might, and to a person less informed should be said, on this subject, but intending not to be unnecessary troublesom, conclude— Respectfully Thy Freind Thos. M Potter P,S, I have always been, and often said at the time the navigation was obstructed, that if the Island, and Floridas could be obtained for ten Milions of Dollars, it would be a good purchase, and have no doubt but that this may be effected with enough to pay for the Depredations commited by the Spaniards and French in their Ports, on our citizens no one knows the contents of this, and I hope never will but thee and the wrighter RC (DLC); above postscript: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States Washington”; endorsed by TJ as a letter of 19 Sep. received 1 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Thomas M. Potter (d. 1808) had moved from Gloucester County, New Jersey, to Trenton, where he worked as an apothecary and merchant. He served on the township committee in Trenton and was ac-
tive in a number of civic and philanthropic endeavors, including the local abolition society. His “zealous activity in suppressing vice,” stated an obituary, “rendered him a terror to evil doers” (Philadelphia Pennsylvania Gazette, 28 Sep. 1791; Trenton True American, 16 June and 3 Nov. 1801; Trenton Federalist, 22 Oct. 1804, 2 Sep. 1805, 21 Apr. and 11 Aug. 1806, 7 Nov. 1808).
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From Thomas Sumter, Sr. Dear Sir Stateburgh. 17th. Sepr. 1804. it is a considerable time Since, I reced. yours respecting Mr. Fitzpatrick, knowing Col. Hampton Would immediately Give, all the informn, that could be collected, in this Quarter—in regard, to the Situation, & Veiws of this Gentleman, & as an oppertunity then offered, by a Gentn. Just going to the Missisip. teritory I thought proper, through him, to endeavour to obtain a declaration from Mr. Fk. on this Subject, in Which however, I have been Disapointed, the Gentn. has returned—Without having Seen, or heard, directly, from him— consequently Sir, I cannot give any Satisfactory information on the business—My opinion is, that he Will, Without hesitation—accept the place offered— The Season has been the Most Ireguler, & disastrous, ever experienced in the Southeren States, insomuch as to produce Serious, & indeed, aflicting Consequences, among the Greater part of the Inhabitance— Probably you have heard, the V. Pt. is at St. Simons Island—So. part, of Geoa.—it is expected, he Will Shortly, be, on, his way, to Washn., that is, if he survived, the Storm, the Voilence, of Which, was exceedingly Great, on that part of the Cost— the admirers, of War & Carnage, among us here, are delighted With, the aledged Prospect of a rupture With the Court of Madrid, &C— I am Dear Sir—With the highest respect, your obt Servt— Thos. Sumter RC (CSmH); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 5 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. yours respecting mr. fitzpatrick: TJ to Sumter, 20 July. v. pt. is at st. simons: fleeing indictments issued against him by the states of New York and New Jersey in the aftermath of his fatal duel with Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr traveled to St. Simons Island, Georgia, where he stayed at the plantation of Pierce Butler. On the 7th and 8th of September a major hurricane struck the coasts of South Carolina
and Georgia, inflicting severe property damage and loss of life. Although caught in the storm while visiting a neighboring plantation, Burr weathered the event without injury. He would return to Washington on 4 Nov. and preside over the opening session of the Senate the following day (Nancy Isenberg, Fallen Founder: The Life of Aaron Burr [New York, 2007], 267-9; Kline, Burr, 2:893-6; Matthew L. Davis, Memoirs of Aaron Burr, 2 vols. [New York, 1836-37], 2:333-41; js, 3:[411]; Walter J. Fraser, Jr., Lowcountry Hurricanes: Three Centuries of Storms at Sea and Ashore [Athens, Ga., and London, 2006], 38-54).
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From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, New-Orleans Septr. 18th. 1804 This City continues the Seat of Disease:—On the 16th. Instant died of the prevailing fever, my private Secretary Joseph Briggs; on yesterday Mr. John Gelston late of New-York, and on this Morning Mr. Benjamin West late of Philadelphia.— My own family is heavily afflicted; Mrs. Claiborne continues ill, and her Brother (Mr. Lewis) is expected to die in the course of the Day.—The distress of the City is considerably hightened by an alarm of Insurrection among the Negro’s;—I do not know how far there may be just cause for this alarm; But from some menacing expressions which recently fell from two Slaves; a general Spirit of Insubordination which of late has been manifested, & the circumstance of several Negro’s having been found traveling by Night with Arms in their hands, the impression is general among the Inhabitants of the City, that they are in eminant Danger. In this state of things, I have taken all the measures of precaution in my power; the patroles at Night are strengthened, and orders given to the Volunteers & City Militia to hold themselves in readiness for action at a moments warning. I shall draw from the public Magazine Powder & Ball for the Volunteers, & if the Danger should encrease, I shall put a public Musket in the hands of every Whiteman in the City.— Colo: Freeman has issued orders to the Troops to hold themselves in readiness to march, & if the occasion shall demand, their return to the City will be directed.— I do not think myself that there are good grounds for the Alarm— But it is incumbent on me to take measures to avert mischief, and in any event I pledge myself for the security of the Lives & property of the Inhabitants! Your faithful friend William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 24 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Benjamin F. west of Philadelphia had commenced a successful commercial business in New Orleans in February (James F. Hopkins and others, eds., The Papers of Henry Clay, 11 vols. [Lexington, Ky., 195992], 1:144; Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser, 24 Oct.).
alarm of insurrection: a petition to Claiborne dated New Orleans, 17 Sep., and signed by James Pitot, Jean Étienne Boré, and 27 other prominent inhabitants of Louisiana reported that an occurrence the previous day at the house of merchant and municipal officeholder Michel Fortier had led them to fear that a slave conspiracy existed in the city. The petitioners urged Claiborne to use all possible means to uncover the plot and to create a commission with authority to try
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18 SEPTEMBER 1804 the conspirators and their accomplices. Claiborne forwarded the petition to Madison on 21 Sep. and explained the measures taken to meet the perceived threat,
repeating that “I do not myself think there is good cause for alarm” (Terr. Papers, 9:295-7; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:76).
From John Coles Dear Sir/ Enniscorthy Septr 18th 1804 I have sent you as measured by Mr. Maddox 88 feet of cherry plank & 53 Ditto of Scantling but for fear he may not be correct you had better have it measured If it does not rain I will be with you this evening I am with respect & Esteem Yrs. John: Coles. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 18 Sep. and so recorded in SJL.
cherry plank: see John Coles to TJ, 7 May.
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Washington Sept. 18th 1804 I arrived here on Sunday last with my family, and found your letters of 1st & 8th instt., on which, on account of some arrears of current business, I have not yet acted. The only difficult commission is how to obtain by correspondence information respecting not only the abilities but moral and social disposition of Levy. As a lawyer he is superior to Dickerson and would I presume do tolerably: still he is but a second rate; and as a statesman and in some degree member of your cabinet I do not think that he would do. Nor, if his practice be, as it is presumable, worth six or seven thousand dollars, is it probable that he would give it up for the place of attorney general, and exchange Philada. for Washington. For that reason it will be difficult to obtain officers from the gentlemen of the bar of those cities where the profession is so lucrative. In Pennsylvania out of the city the only republican lawyers of reputation known to me are Hamilton of Carlisle and, but as yet much lower, Baldwin of Pittsburg. In New York there is no Republican equal to the place unless Brokholst Livingston who is a State judge would accept it. With his political & general character you are acquainted. That appointment, however, does not press; but unless there shall be a district attorney at New Orleans not a single prosecution can take place in the name of the United States and Dickerson has positively said that he could not go this fall. Would it not 412
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be better to send to Govr. Claiborne a blank commission by next mail, informing him that in filling it he must tell the gentleman whose name he will put in it that it is only a temporary appointment? I have uniformly been of opinion that as it related to the principles of our Governmt., and to the reputation & popularity of the administration, it was of importance that the officers of the federal Govt. should abstain from any interference with the public elections; and I had, as you may recollect, prepared a paragraph to that effect in my first circular to the collectors, which you as well as Mr Madison thought premature; and the subject has not been attended to since that time. Although several have ostensibly interfered, Mr Osgood and Mr Coxe are the only ones who, within my recollection, have signed & published their names; and the last is the only one who has done it in such manner as to merit or meet with animadversion. But under present circumstances it will be very delicate to admonish or to proclaim. With great respect and attachment, Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin The city is not more unhealthy than usual, and much less so than the whole extent of country, on both sides the ridge, from the Susquehannah to the Potowmack.— RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 20 Sep. and “Levy. Dickinson. elections” and so recorded in SJL. hamilton of carlisle: James Hamilton, the U.S. attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania (Vol. 33:79, 674; Vol. 36:333). baldwin of pittsburg: Henry Baldwin, a former law student of Alexander J. Dallas and future U.S. Supreme Court justice (anb). prepared a paragraph to that ef fect: for Gallatin’s draft paragraph re-
garding electioneering by customs collectors, prepared during the first months of TJ’s administration, see Vol. 34:635-6, 644-5. During the recent New York gubernatorial campaign, Samuel osgood, the naval officer at New York, chaired a meeting and signed a public address in support of Republican candidate Morgan Lewis (Albany Register, 13 Mch.; New York Republican Watch-Tower, 24 Mch.). For the recent activities of Tench coxe, the purveyor of public supplies, in Republican politics in Pennsylvania, see Thomas Leiper to TJ, 16 Aug.
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From Thomas Worthington Sir Chilicothe Sepr 18th 1804 Some time since I informed you that I expected Mr Baldwin district attorney for Ohio would resign that office & took the liberty of naming Mr William Creighton as his successor It is now certain Mr Baldwin will make his resignation as he is a candidate for our Assembly and must resign before the day of election If Sir you have no other character in view for that office besides Mr Creighton may I ask the favour of you to suspend the appointment untill I have the pleasure to write you again—Mr Creighton is now in Virga this with some other circumstances compels me to make this request I have the honour to be with sincere wishes for your health & happiness Your Obt St T Worthington RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “The President of the U.S”; endorsed by TJ as received 4 Oct. and “Creighton Wm. to be Atty US. Ohio v. Baldwin” and so recorded in SJL.
From David Gelston Sir, New York Septr. 20th. 1804— I have sent to the care of the Collector at Alexandria, by Capt. Wm. Sutherland in the Scho. two friends, two books, addressed to you, which I received from Lieut Leonard on his return from France— This is the first opportunity I have had to send them by water—I was apprehensive they would be injured, if sent by land— I have the honor to be, very respectfully—Sir, your obedient servant David Gelston RC (MHi); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President U.S.”; endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
two books: copies of Volney’s Tableau du climat et du sol des États-Unis d’Amérique (Sowerby, No. 4032; see James T. Leonard to TJ, 8 Aug.).
From Edward Pole Philadelphia
May it please the President September 20. 1804 In the Course of my business as an Auctioneer of Books &ca. I have obtained Fifteen Volumes of the Journals of the British House of Commons, a description of which I have hereunto annexed, I thought 414
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it was possible they might be an acquisition to the National Library at the Seat of Government; it may perhaps be a long time before such an Opportunity may offer again, I believe they were originally a part of the Library of the late Celebrated and venerable Doctor Franklin. The Books are in full Folio about the Size of Chambers’s Dictionary, they are in half binding not Cut, the binding [is] somewhat wore, but in tolerable good order, The Print [. . .]k is in very good preservation, which is executed with the Letter according to the Type Founders term is English and the whole of them may be had for Fifty dollars. I would not have trouble the President upon this occasion, but I did not Know who was the Librarian or where else to apply I am with the highest Respect & Esteem The Presidents Sincere Friend and Fellow Citizen Edward Pole RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Collection); torn; at head of text: “To Thomas Jefferson Esquire President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: description of 15 nonconsecutive volumes of the journals of the House of Commons ranging from 1642 to 1764, with dates of each session and number of pages (MS in same; in Pole’s hand). Edward Pole (d. 1815) was a prominent Philadelphia auctioneer, notary public, and mercantile broker who conducted business from multiple locations in the city, including Dock Street in 1804. He sold books, horses, carriages, livestock, real estate, dry goods, and groceries as well as his own manufactured fishing tackle and other merchandise (Philadelphia Independent Gazetteer, 6 Feb. 1788, 22 May 1790; Philadelphia Dunlap and Claypoole’s American Daily Advertiser, 9 Dec.
1793; Gazette of the United States, 26 Jan. 1799; Aurora, 17 Sep. 1804; Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser, 9 Oct. 1815; James Robinson, The Philadelphia Directory for 1804 [Philadelphia, 1804], 184). Nicolas Gouin Dufief, in his letter to TJ of 22 Oct. 1801, indicated that he had acquired the residue of Benjamin Franklin’s library from William Temple Franklin. This included 15 folio volumes of the journals of the british house of commons available for purchase for $40. Dufief offered the books for sale to the Library of Congress in 1803, but did not meet with a favorable response (Vol. 35:482-4; Vol. 36:607-8; Vol. 39:419-21). chambers’s dictionary: Ephraim Chambers’s Cyclopædia, or An Universal Dictionary of Arts and Sciences, first published in London in 1728 in two folio volumes, went through several editions and was also translated into French (Sowerby, No. 4892).
To William Short Dear Sir Monticello Sep. 20. 04. According to the desire in your letter of July 19. & that to mr Price, I have settled the rents of Indian Camp to the end of 1783.1 either from a defect of my instructions to mr Lilly or his understanding them, he had proceeded in the collection of the rents for that year and made considerable progress before I knew & stopped him. I some 415
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time last autumn sent you a supplement to our accounts coming down to Oct. 6. 03. and accounting for all the rents to the end of 1802. as I believed: but mr Lilly had placed Burras a tenant there in the beginning of 1802. & not knowing that or the amount of his rent, it was not entered in the account. I now subjoin a statement of that, of all the rents of 1803, and of certain arrears from Giannini & Tyler; the former recently got from him by Lilly by taking from him fodder, beehives & whatever he could get, and the latter not yet paid. this 2d. supplement adds £38–13–9 = 128.95 D to the Dr. side of my account: the additions to the Cr. side I cannot state, because I must recur for them to mr Barnes’s account which I have not here. but you are in possession of them. I have turned over to mr Price for collection £31– 12–6 which comprehends all rents due to the end of 1803. I also inclose you at his request a plat of the land, noting (with a pencil) the tenement & rent of every tenant as he has settled them. considering the fencing done by Durrett, & the lands he relinquished I thought the terms agreed between him & Price not unreasonable. I shall set out this day sennight for Washington. not knowing where you are, or what are to be your future movements I add only my affectionate salutations, & assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson paid to turned over G. Lilly to Price £–19–9 £–16–3 Durrett 1803 23–19–9 7–16–3 Price 1803 13–16–0 Burras 1802 5–5–0 1803 7–3–3 Lively 1803 11–2–0 Giannini Sundry years 6–0–0 Tyler 1795.6.7. 2–17–0 46–6–9 31–12–6 Lilly’s commn on £152–19–9 pd. by Th:J. 7–13–0 to be debited to Th:J. 38–13–9 RC (DLC: Short Papers); at foot of text: “Mr. Short”; endorsed by Short as received 8 Oct. at New York. Enclosure: survey by William Tompkins of Short’s Indian Camp property, dated July 1804; subdivided into eight plots farmed by Short’s lessees; plots are labeled by Tompkins according to their acreage, and three
Total £–16–0 31–16–0 13–16–0 5–5–0 7–3–3 11–2–0 6–0–0 2–17–0 77–19–3
are identified by him according to lessee; with TJ’s added notations in pencil labeling other plots according to lessees and all plots according to rent collected; in the left top corner are TJ’s calculations in ink listing the eight plots totaling 860 acres, for which £26 and 5,600 pounds of tobacco have been paid in rent; endorsed
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22 SEPTEMBER 1804 by Tompkins: “Plat of W. Shorts Land” (MS in same). In his epistolary record, Short noted a letter of 23 July to his Indian Camp manager Joseph price, in which he discussed arrangements for forwarding rents to George Jefferson and leases with John Durrett and Anthony Giannini (FC in same; Vol. 42:480). some time last autumn: TJ probably meant his letter of 12 Jan. 1804 (Vol. 42:167-9).
George Jefferson provided Short with an update on tenant arrears in a 24 Nov. letter to Short, forwarded by TJ “to the care of mr George Taylor broker Philadelphia” and postmarked at Washington, 30 Nov. (RC in DLC: Short Papers; endorsed by Short as received 4 Dec. at Philadelphia). 1 Thus
in MS.
From Jacob Wagner Sir Department of State 20 Septr. 1804. To the Marquis Yrujo I have had the honor to deliver the letter enclosed in your note of the 15th. He proceeds this afternoon or to morrow morning on his journey to Monticello, and having stated to me that he will have occasion, when there, to make use of a copy of the Spanish Convention, I undertook to transmit one to you, Sir, which you will find enclosed. Nothing new has occurred since my package to Mr. Madison by the last mail. With the most perfect respect, I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obed. Servt. Jacob Wagner RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department on 22 Sep. and “Yrujo” as so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: A Convention between His Catholic Majesty and the United States of America, for the Indemnification of Losses, of Individuals of Either Nation, during the Late War (Washington, D.C., 1803).
TJ’s note of the 15th to Wagner has not been found, nor is it recorded in SJL. It probably covered TJ’s letter to Carlos Martínez de Irujo of the same date. For terms of the claims convention of 1802 between Spain and the United States, see TJ to the Senate, 11 Jan. 1803 (Vol. 39:316-17).
From Stephen Cathalan, Jr. Dear Sir Marseilles 22 September 1804 I Beg you to excuse me for my interrupting you of the important affairs, which employs your whole time for the happiness, & welfare of your Country, in your high Station as President, to deposit in your Bosom, what I have experienced lately from one Wm. Baker of Boston, who is so much concerned in the forged Sea papers of the Ship 417
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Pomona, Captn. Ths. Lewis was Supplied, with at Barcelona in the year 1802.—I have sent Wm. Baker’s Calumnious letter to me, in original with my vindication against it & proper vouchers in Support of the Same; begging to present you a report of the whole, and if my Conduct, as I dare say, & hope, is without Blemish, to ask from your Justice a Satisfactory, and public reparation against him, in Behalf of my public & private Character, so much injured. It is not now, as to the Honble. President, but as to my Constant & Respectable Friend, Since I had the honor of being acquainted with you, Sir, in 1787, that I address this letter, and that I will enter with you into further details, on what I suffered Since July 1801; before there was not any Jealousy existing here, I enjoyed as Consul, and as Merchant the Confidence of the few Americans Merchts. & Captns. who came here, weither Consigned to me, or to other Houses. I made my Study to defend the American property taken by the French Privateers, and on 22 prizes carried into the ports of the Mediterranean, I succeeded to wain three (one of them against Lucien Bonaparte) and two others besides from New York, which I had orders to Compromise for frs. 25000. each, I concluded for f 15000. deducting on it what would be missing on their vessels & Cargoes, the others were Condemned in pursuance of the, then existing laws of France, being impossible for me to prevent it after a vigorous defense from my Side; for want of Roll of Equipage &c &c— Samadet & Cushing arrived in 1801. to establish themselves in this Place, Mr. Isaac Cushing of Boston bearer of letters of introduction to me, they met with a Kind reception from me.— I told them that there was to be done enough in this Place, both for them & myself in the American line, without injuring one another by Jealousy, that a Sincere friendship ought to exist between us, and I shewed so well the example that Mr. Cushing was daily at my house, Speaking English with my Daughter, who gave him lessons of the French; the Ship Rebecca belonging to Messrs. Smith & Buckanan of Baltimore arrived here with a very rich Cargo on the 8th July 1801. Mr. Bronough Super Cargo had letters from his owners, and from Mr. Robt. Gilmor for me, and I had previously received large Packets from Messrs. MacKenzie & A Glennie of London for him, both recommending very Strongly Mr. Bronough his Ship, & Cargo to me, we exchanged these respective Letters, & Mr. Bronough employed me to transact his whole affairs. Mr. Samadet who had been established at Leghorn, where the Merchts are Jealous one of the others, used with Mr Cushing, all the Cunning means to obtain that Consignmt from Mr Bronough, under Pretence of a letter* ordering 418
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all the Super Cargoes of Messrs. Smith & Buckanan to Consign themselves to that new house in Marseilles.—*they had from Messrs. Debutts & Purviance of Leghorn. Bronough was of a very haughty temper & said, he had no orders to receive from any body, and that I was transacting his affairs here. he was ordered to quarantine to begin for 15 days after his Cargo was all landed in the Lazarett, except the Tobacco; which I stored and obtained from the Health Office a report of their resolve, by which such a Ship of 600 Tons with 64 men, saved one month quarantine, wages, provisions & Charges of Carrying in & out of the Lazarett, such heavy Cargo, which may be Calculated to $6000. at least, but this was not all, as at that Epoqua all the imports were to pay the duties ready Cash, when not reexported by the same Ship and landed here; on my official Demand I obtained from the minister of Finances that Cargo to be put into entrepot of the Custom house (which has been established here only one year after) to be reexported by other vessels to Genoa or Leghorn & the Duties to be paid only on what Should be consumed in France, as Since the 1st. day, I told Mr. Bronough his Cargo should answer better in dividing it thus.— But in the mean time I was working for the good of the Concerned, Samadet & Cushing, who had nothing to do, were visiting & writing to Bronough, who was in the Lazarett, and they made him such advantageous offers, perhaps to allow him their whole Common.1 on that Consignment, that on the 20th. July, he wrote me to deliver the 247 Hhds Tobacco to St & Cushing to whom he had Consigned his Ship & Cargo, which I did already but I had with Cushing, after, a warm explanation & since that moment a rupture was the Consequence; they took in their Services one of my Clerks, from that moment mounted their House in the greatest Style with 26 Clerks &ca.; for my part, I remained as I was in my modest way of living, with a resolution of remaining ready to render all the Services, and protection to the Americans here, as Consul & not interfere in their business or managemt. of other houses to whom they might be Consigned to, and I began by Mr Bronough the 1st. then Consigned to S. & Cg., leaving to time & patience to render me Justice & in order matters might not be interpretted by Messrs. Smith & Buckanan as by Jealousy on my Side, I did not advise them of this alteration, but wrote fully on it to Messrs. McKenzie & A Glennie, & Robt. Gilmor—the result was that Samadet & Cushing kept here the whole Cargo, sold the Sugars only after the peace for ½ the amount it was offered to them 4 months before, & after Bronough with the Rebecca’s departure, that it was said they took a Concern in that Sale, which left to 419
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the purchasers 16 Thousand Dollars benefit, that they obtained from hand to hand allowances on the outward Cargo, which has been Confirmed by their Clerks after their failure, not only on that one, but on many others they received since when in prosperity, and that had this Cargo remained in my hands 50 Thds. Dollars would have been Saved;—they had so much written over all America to procure Consignments that I foreseeing that too many would glut the market, that I took an opposite measure. I did not write at all or discouraged my particular friends to venture this way—Then arrived at Marseilles Messrs. Ogden Schwartz & Co. from Leghorn, in February 1802. in the Washington Fregate, to establish themselves here, Schwartz had failed at Leghorn, before they followed at a little difference the Style of Samadet & Cg.; both their emissaries Saying to the American arriving I had left off all Business, and was to be superceeded in the Consulate & Confining myself to my duties, and assistance to them in that Capacity;—a Short while after Cushing & Ogden departed for America to obtain my Office, it is to you, my Dr. Sir, I am owing that I have been Continued in it; and at Mr Cushing’s return in this Place in May 1803—he came to my house, bearer of your Kind Compliments & wishes to me & whole family & of the preference you Kindly gave me over my Competitors. I forgot all the wrong his house had done me and returned Sincerely his good friend, so much that he Confided me the dreadfull Circumstances of his establishment & would be soon obliged to Stop their payments—which took place on the 6th. July following—I gave him all the disinterested advices in my power & to Console him in his Situation he was daily admitted in my family & often at Dinner— when they had given up their Debts to their Creditors, to be recovered, Mr. Cushing intending to reestablish himself in trade, proposed me last winter to take him in partnership, that he & me would have all the Americans’ affairs (that the house of Schwartz would not stand long &c.) I answered him that I did not like partnerships begining in the name of God & ending too often by the name of the Devil, that Sun Shinning for every body, I prefer to do less business, alone, & growing old, after having lost 4 years time I was Satisfied with one or two Consigments at time to which I might attend to myself, than to a larger number. Little while after he proposed to my daughter to marry with her, declaring that since his arrival in 1801. he was in love &c &c; my Daughter Shewed him her Surprise; & that before addressing her abruptly, he ought to have spoken first to her father or mother, but if he should mention any more on the subject, she would beg him, or 420
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desire her parents, to discontinue his visits, and Addresses. She informed us of it, but as I was advised Mr Cushing had mentioned since to several persons his projects on her, & Continued to Come in my house, I desired him of not thinking any more, nor to partnership nor to such a Marriage, I positively declaring him that the difference in Religion, & of Nation, for my only Daughter were two unremoveable obstacles, which would dispence me to mention him any others, that my office was always opened to him, but my family could not receive him any more; then he took his leave, he is entered since in partnership with Mr. Gabriac who was appointed before the liquidation of the failure of Samt. & Cushing who have not yet given 5 pr Ct. dividend & will not give 10 pr Ct. to their Creditors, & Since very Serious disputes have arisen between this new house, & that of Schwartz which may be by this time the subjects of Paragraphs in the New York & Boston Gazettes; for my Part I have Confined myself to write as here enclosed to my American Friends—Provided I may Continue to deserve your approbation & of Satisfying the Americans who will Confide me their Interest this way. My ambition will be fullfilled & I will not be apprehensive of any Calumnious repports on my Account,— But I have too long detained your Patience, & with Joining all my Family’s Respects & best wishes for you I have the honor to be. Dear Sir Your most Obedient & Devoted Servant. Stephen Cathalan Junr. P.S. I will take the oath Required by Law, as it will be directed to me, if I can be acknowledged a Citizen of the United states; I would wish it would be in my Power to have the honor of paying you my Respectfull visit, in the U. states, but I hope at Least before next Spring I may Dispatch you my chancor. Julius Oliver as my aide de Camp— I beg your Refference to my Privte. Letter to J. Madison esqr. about the hermitage wine. S. C. J I am to the 26th. Sepber. & Beg your Refference to the Inclosed abstract from Tripoly, which is what I can procure hitherto, as official as possible— RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed and with postscripts by Cathalan; at foot of text: “The Most Honorable Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States Washington”; endorsed by TJ as received 21 Mch. 1805 and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures: (1) Circular to American
merchants, Marseilles, 30 May, offering Cathalan’s commercial services to American merchants and listing several American, French, and English mercantile houses as references (MS in same; in a clerk’s hand, signed and with references by Cathalan). (2) Abstract of Bonaventure
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22 SEPTEMBER 1804 Beaussier to his brother in Marseilles, 3 Aug., from Tripoli, indicating his belief that the city is on the eve of American attack; Beaussier has informed Yusuf Qaramanli that the pasha will regret not taking his advice, namely that an American loss will only extend the war, while in the event of Tripolitan defeat, Edward Preble will demand the release of American prisoners without ransom; Beaussier has also advised Qaramanli that a longer war would be of little concern to the United States, as it would help develop the nation’s sailors and officers; Qaramanli has responded that he would rather be buried in the ruins of his country than submit to the will of his enemy (Tr in same, TJ Papers, 140:24380; in French; in a clerk’s hand; endorsed by Cathalan: “A true Copy Viâ Tunis Just Communicated to me.— Marseilles the 26 September 1804”). In April and June 1803, Cathalan took affidavits from William baker, supercargo for the Pomona, a merchant ship commissioned in Barcelona in 1801, and Thomas lewis, the ship’s captain. Both were accused in connection with the forging of papers for the Pomona and of defrauding the ship’s owners. Having fled Barcelona, Baker and Lewis implicated William Willis, the U.S. consul there, in the forgery. Partly because Baker appended a declaration to his affidavit barring its use in a court of law or equity, Cathalan never accorded Baker’s version much credibility and refused to associate with him socially. Tensions between the two continued to mount until, according to Cathalan, Baker was arrested in Marseilles for assaulting a woman. Paroled on security, Baker eventually made his way to Leghorn, where he came into contact with U.S. consul Thomas Appleton. Cathalan wrote to Appleton, informing his colleague that he was free to tell Baker that Cathalan considered him a “Rascall, unworthy to bear the Character of an american Citizen.” Baker evidently learned of the letter and on 28 July responded with his calumnious letter. Baker referred to Cathalan’s “trifling character”; indicated that the illegitimacy of Cathalan’s position had prevented him “from properly remonstrating to obtain redress”
for John Burchmore, an American ship captain whose cargo had been seized by French privateers; accused Cathalan of mishandling another case involving the supercargo of an American ship; charged him with issuing a passport to an Englishman after the declaration of war between France and Great Britain; and pointed out that Willis had once been imprisoned in Leghorn. Baker continued by blasting Cathalan for taking “peculiar satisfaction in backbiting slandering and by the most insidious means robbing” the reputation of others, because of which “my blood has boiled to see such prostitution of the American Cockade!” Baker indicated that he had shown the letter to several Americans in Leghorn and to “all the houses in the American trade here.” In a letter of 22 Sep. to Madison, Cathalan enclosed Baker’s letter, to which he appended a statement dated 10 Aug. indicating that he had authorized Appleton to have Baker arrested “in reparation of the atrocious Calumnies” contained in Baker’s letter. Cathalan also enclosed a 14-page defense of his conduct; a letter of 14 Nov. 1803 to Captain John Burchmore, pointing out his many efforts on behalf of Burchmore; a letter of 15 Apr. 1803 from Joseph Barnes to Cathalan, intended to explain the granting of the passport discussed in Baker’s letter; and a 22-page collection of documents related to the outfitting of the Pomona, the sale of its cargo, and the charges and countercharges between Marc Antoine Faurrat, Willis’s agent in Marseilles, and the firm ogden schwartz & co., which had, according to Cathalan, supported Baker and Lewis during their time in Marseilles (RC and MSS in DNA: RG 59, CD, Marseilles; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 3:582-3, 593; 4:9-10, 21, 133-5; 5:85-6, 568-9; 8:79-81; Madison to TJ, 17 and 27 Mch. 1805). cushing & ogden departed for america to obtain my office: for recommendations of Isaac Cushing or Abraham Ogden to replace Cathalan as commercial agent in Marseilles, see Vol. 37:306-8; Vol. 38:42. In another letter of this day to Madison, Cathalan enclosed copies of letters between Cathalan and Jourdan & Fils of Tain, France, regarding orders by Madi-
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22 SEPTEMBER 1804 son, TJ, and Pierce Butler for white her mitage wine. Cathalan asked for clarification of how the firm had previously characterized a sample sent to TJ and informed the firm that he was waiting for letters from Butler and TJ before completing an order for the wine. In response, the firm identified the sample as an 1800
vintage, not 1795 as earlier reported, and informed Cathalan that they could bottle a similar wine during the winter (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:78; Cathalan to TJ, 27 July). 1 That
is, “Commission,” abbreviated.
From James Madison Dear Sir Sep. 22. 1804 I inclose the letter alluded to in my last from Mr. Merry to Mr. Wagner; also a letter from Barney & one from L. Harris. I have authorized Mr. W. to forward any more information relating to Barney’s claims, to Mr Skipwith, reminding him that no further interposition could be made, unless you should so decide. A patronage of individual claims, besides its interference with the functions of the Board of Comrs, is the more delicate as a favorable decision in one case, might be rendered, by the limitation of the sum to be dispensed, injurious in others. As to the Citizenship of Barney, it is probably sound, and can therefore be shewn by himself. How far it may have been suspended quoad certain purposes by his temporary relations or special transactions, is a question more proper for judicial than Executive enquiry, and therefore falls naturally within that of the Board. When it appeared that the Board was leaning to an opinion that a foreign partnership in one business, disqualified a claimant on the score of another altogether distinct, the subject was with others committed to Mr. Livingston, for arrangement with the French Govt. The letter from Harris is a further proof of the kindness of the Emperor Alexander. I wish however that with this obliging temper, there may not be blended some little view of drawing the U.S. into the politics of Russia. Considering the jealousy of other powers of Russia, and the possibility that Russia may get into the war, any formal connection of the U.S. with the Porte, under the auspices too of Russia, is a step suggesting much caution. The letter written last to our Consul will I hope put an end to his enterprizing patriotism. I inclose Pinkney’s last communications which you have already seen, that they may be at hand, if wanted during your talk with Yrujo. The diameter of the Boxes for my pipes is three inches & a half: the breadth of the ring 3 inches, admitting an entrance of 1½ inches into the ends of the logs, where they make a good joint. I omitted to 423
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mention before I left you, that Dr. Winston on learning that you wd. want laborers promised to decide as soon as he reached Hanover whither he was bound, whether he could spare any & how many, and write to me immediately on the subject. Yrs. always with respectful attachmt James Madison RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department on 25 Sep. and so recorded in SJL with notation “Russia. Barney. *boxes of waterpipes.” Enclosure: Levett Harris to Madison, St. Petersburg, 29 June, detailing recent intercessions by Russia with the Ottoman Porte on behalf of the United States to ameliorate the condition of the American prisoners at Tripoli and to open the Black Sea to American ships (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:396-7). For other enclosures, see below. my last: if Madison had called to TJ’s attention correspondence between Anthony Merry and Jacob Wagner, he apparently did so in person, during the visit to Monticello mentioned in his letter of 8 Sep. Writing to Madison on 28 Aug., Merry had requested clarification as to whether Wagner was authorized to correspond directly with the British minister during the secretary of state’s absence from Washington. Merry later wrote a private letter to Wagner, explaining that he did not intend his letter to Madison to convey a lack of respect for Wagner nor to question his authority. Merry’s object, according to Wagner, was instead “to notice the omission to mention me to him,
as a part of the system which he supposes to have been adopted by the administration of withholding from Foreign Ministers the attentions due to them, and in which he has not yet been instructed by his Court to acquiesce.” Wagner forwarded the letter, which has not been found, to Madison on 18 Sep. (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:649-50; 8:54, 65, 78n). The recent letter from Joshua barney has not been found (same, 8:78n). letter written last to our con sul: Madison wrote to Levett Harris on 26 June regarding Harris’s having asked the Russian government to intervene in the matter of the Philadelphia’s crew. While acknowledging Harris’s “laudable intentions” and “zeal,” Madison noted that “the means of conducting our affairs with Tripoli, are amply sufficient,” and therefore precluded “the necessity of a resort to the interposition of foreign Nations.” Harris should confine his activities to those of “the Consular Office” (same, 7:374-5). pinkney’s last communications: see Madison to TJ, 28 Aug. Dr. Isaac winston of Hanover County, Virginia, was a cousin of Dolley Madison (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:78n).
To John B. Magruder Sir Monticello Sep. 23. 04. It is with extreme regret I am obliged to say that the account lately sent me from your saw mill for plank so far transcends in it’s prices all the bounds of moderation that I can not by paying it set such a precedent for myself or for others. I think I may say with truth that such prices were never paid, not only in Virginia, or in any part of the US. but not even in Europe. under these circumstances, wishing to give as little trouble as possible, I propose to you to refer it to arbitrators, whom you may name yourself, only letting them be men of re 424
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gard for their characters & acquainted with prices. mr Lilly is authorised to agree on this matter with you, and I would that he & John Perry should attend the arbitrators. they know nearly all the plank I have ever bought for my house, & the prices of it; that I never have given more than £6. the thousand for the finest flooring plank of the greatest lengths, nor more than from £3. to £4. the for all other, adding only to these prices the cost of the timber. I hope you will consider this proposition as fair & acceptable and agree to it accordingly. Accept my best wishes Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. John B. Magruder”; endorsed by TJ.
From Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Museum Sepr. 23d. 1804. Your letter of the 15th. also the Model I have received—and I doubt not by clamping the boards with pieces 3 Inches wide, to prevent the warping, which boards will ever do if pieces are put one on the other with the grain in opposite directions—and provided the joints are made without the least shake, That such a Machine may be made very useful to travelers—several of whom visiting the Museum and on seeing my Polygraphs made objections to the size of them. I will as soon as the present work is done, have a Polygraph made after your Model, and let you know the result. I have just received a letter from Mr. Hawkins, who informs me that he is now in a fair way of doing well with the Manufactury of Polygraphs. He has sent me one No. 50. which he says will scarcely admit of improvement—In a few days I shall get a sight of it, and after examining it, very probably I shall find something in it worthy to communicate to you. He has sent some Inkholders, and will supply me with more by other Vessels. I am much obliged to you for the permission of Publication of the Paragraph of your Letter approving the invention of the Polygraph, & will avail myself with the aid of it, when I can do it delicately, and when I have seen what further improvements can be made in the Manufactory of them. We have lately made some Pen-bars much lighter than that to your Polygraph—the Pen casses are also smaller— I would rather irr on the side of strength, where it is necessary to truth—but all superfluous weight ought to be avoided— Mr. Hawkins writes me that his Machines are without Drawers, and what is very satisfactory, Mr. Brunel having called on him & after 425
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examining the Polygraph, declared that the one he invented is no longer of any use, & has said the same to the Artist who had given him £1200 for the invention Which Cabinet Maker is now manufactoring those of Mr. Hawkin’s Invention, and wholy laid aside the manufactory of Mr. Brunels. Mr. Hawkins says “that he has now began at the right end, with respect to the sale of them, having sold 4 to a Lord, one to a Secretary of State, one to the Swedish Embasidor & one to the American Embasidor, one to the board of Agriculture, two to go to Rusia, one to go to the West Indea’s, one to Govr. Penn so called &c &c” He has also sent me drawings of sundry Tools and his manner of using them—and as we promise a continued correspondence, I expect to be a gainer by his fruitful invention. Dr Sir Accept my respects and believe me your friend C W Peale RC (DLC); at foot of text: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. PoC (Lb in PPAmP: Peale-Sellers Papers). letter from mr. hawkins: in a letter to his son Raphaelle, Peale reported that he had received a letter from John Isaac Hawkins in which Hawkins announced finishing his 50th polygraph and beginning the sale of them to “several important customers.” Peale later reported to Raphaelle that some of Hawkins’s im-
provements “are very important,” including his pens with lateral motion made from a “contrivance better than what I make to my Steel machinery” (Peale to Raphaelle Peale, 20 and 29 Sep., in PPAmP: Peale-Sellers Papers). For the portable polygraph patented by Marc Isambard brunel, see Peale to TJ, 13 Mch., and TJ to Peale, 30 Mch. cabinet maker: John H. Farthing of London (Peale, Papers, v. 2, pt. 2:756n; Silvio A. Bedini, Thomas Jefferson and His Copying Machines [Charlottesville, 1984], 38, 91).
From Archibald Stuart Dear Sir Charlottesville 23d. Septr. 1804 This will be handed to you by Mr. Geo: Goosely a young gent of the bar who resides at Suffolk—He is an amiable young Man, yr political friend, & very desirous of paying you his respects— I am yrs. very respectfully Archd: Stuart RC (MHi); at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received 23 Sep. and “by Goosely” and so recorded in SJL. geo: goosely: a lawyer from Virginia, George Goosley had lost his wife earlier
in 1804 and would himself perish in the wreck of the schooner Comfort while traveling to Charleston, South Carolina, in 1806 (Richmond Virginia Argus, 14 Mch.; Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser, 4 Sep. 1806).
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Memorandum of Tasks for James Dinsmore work to be done by mr Dinsmore. ✓ ✓ ✓ h ✓ a. ✓ ✓ a. h ✓ a. ✓ b. ✓ e. d ✓ c. ✓ f. g.
finish the Dome room. double the door of the cellar under the tea-room. do the gutturs of the house with sheet iron.1 hang the sashes of all the windows. finish Hall & parlour 2 put up the Venetian blinds from Washington remodel the 2. pr sash doors of the parlour.3 the outer new folding doors to be made of pine, the partition do. of mahogany put up the outerfold of all the window shutters that they may be ready for the painter. put up the ballustrade of the gallery in the hall. do the stairs & staircases. base & Cape of the Dome external Ballustrade on the roof of the house4 build the S.W. Portico. Parlour 5 & Hall floors6 entablature of N.W. piazza N.W. Pavilion.7 externl & internl Chinese railing on terras of house green house. Th:J. Sep. 24. 04.
MS (MHi); entirely in TJ’s hand; Nichols, Architectural Drawings, No. 147n. MS (same); on verso of Memorandum of Tasks for John Hemings, [24 Sep.]; entirely in TJ’s hand, including signature by initials and date of 24 Sep. 1804; probably an earlier state of the list (see notes below); Nichols, Architectural Drawings, No. 147l. MS (same); entirely in TJ’s hand, unsigned and undated; at head of text: “Dinsmore”; on same sheet and written alongside a version of the list of tasks for Hemings; with brief entries, perhaps constituting the earliest extant state of the memorandum; includes an entry for “gutters of the offices”; Nichols, Architectural Drawings, No. 147m.
1 In Nichols No. 147l MS, this line appears below “finish the Dome room,” suggesting that TJ intended “do” (for “ditto”) to stand in for “finish.” 2 TJ added a check mark above this word. Nichols No. 147l MS: “finish base, cap, architraves & floors of the Hall & Parlour.” 3 Nichols No. 147l MS continues, following a comma, “so that either the sash or panelled door may be shut.” 4 Remainder of list not in Nichols No. 147l MS. 5 TJ added a check mark above this word. 6 Remainder of list not in Nichols No. 147m MS. 7 Word interlined in place of “Outchamber.”
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Memorandum of Tasks for John Hemings [24 Sep. 1804]
reserved for J. Hemings. All the Chinese railing. Venetian blinds for the Porticos. the 3. remaing. Angular Portals. the Aviary. facings &c of windows of covered ways folds of window shutters. closet of my bed chamber store rooms in the loft. MS (MHi); undated; entirely in TJ’s hand; on other side of sheet containing “Work to be done by mr Dinsmore,” dated 24 Sep. (see Memorandum of Tasks for James Dinsmore, 24 Sep.); Nichols, Architectural Drawings, No. 147l. MS (same); undated; in TJ’s hand; at head of text: “John Hem.”; written alongside a version of the list of tasks for Dinsmore (Nichols, Architectural Drawings, No. 147m); consisting of five entries: “Venetian porches,” “Chinese railing,” “Cellar
sashes,” “Inner leaves of window shutters,” and “Venetian blinds of Porticos.” Among several undated plans and sketches in TJ’s hand related to vene tian blinds was a drawing labeled “manner of fixing Venetian blinds in the Porticos.” It showed a blind folded all the way to the ceiling and also folded “half up held together by hooks at the sides” (MS in MHi; Nichols, Architectural Drawings, No. 147s).
Memorandum of Tasks for John Perry Mr. Perry. to floor & shelve the loft ✓ lath the Wood-room & put a good door. ✓ pale in the nursery, enlarging it to what it used to be. pales 4. f. high, to be rived, & made close enough to keep out hares. ✓ make the chicken coop. do the roof of the N.W. offices. mr Stewart will put on the sheet iron when it comes. the North passage is to be covered next; then the South passage, taking off the shingles & sheeting carefully that they may be used again Sep. 24. 04. MS (MHi); entirely in TJ’s hand.
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From George Newbold Thomas Jefferson New York Septr. 24h. 1804 Beleiving the enclos’d pamphlet will not be unacceptable to the President of the U. States,—I have taken the liberty of transmitting it for his perusal With due respect Geo. Newbold RC (MHi); endorsed by TJ as received 7 Oct. and “with a pamphlet” and so recorded in SJL, but as received 8 Oct. Enclosure not found. George Newbold (1780-1858) was a New York merchant who, in 1812, was elected a director of the New York Bank of America. During the Jackson administration, Newbold supported the withdrawal of federal funds from the Second Bank of the United States, ensuring his own bank’s profitability as a leading “pet” institution. In 1832, he became bank president, a position he held until his death.
Newbold was also a Quaker and, from at least 1804 through 1838, a member of the New-York Manumission Society (Shrewsbury, N.J., Monthly Meeting Records, Haverford College Library Quaker Collection, Swarthmore College; Frank Otto Gatell, “Spoils of the Bank War: Political Bias in the Selection of Pet Banks,” American Historical Review, 70 [1964], 43-5; J. Smith Homans, ed., “Bank Items,” Bankers’ Magazine, and Statistical Register, 13 [1858], 311; New-York Evening Post, 12 Jan. 1804; New-York Commercial Advertiser, 18 Jan. 1838).
From Gideon Granger Dear Sir. Suffield Septr. 25th. 1804. I have visited Our friends at Providence and had a full conversation with the Govr: Messrs. Russell, Wheaton & Others, on the subject of the Office at Providence. The Governor was impatient for an appointment, all the other Gentlemen were solicitous that the business might be postponed for the present. There are some very serious difficulties among Our friends in that State and there is some reason to fear there will be a contest among our friends which may hazard the Cause in that State. I have engaged to Mr. Russell to communicate every thing verbally. On the first of October I shall sitt off for Washington. Our elections are passed in Connecticut; The federalists have completely triumphed in their Elections for Members of the Genl Assembly. Our number will be reduced 18 or 20. Yet the Republican vote through the State has increased. I Am Sir. Your Sincere friend Gideon Granger RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
office at providence: commissioner of loans, currently held by Jabez Bowen (see TJ to Gallatin, 3, 8 Aug.).
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To Étienne Lemaire Dear Sir Monticello. Sep. 25. 04 I intended to have set out tomorrow for Washington; but it is now raining and likely to continue so; it is not probable therefore that I shall leave this till the day after tomorrow, in which case I shall be in Washington about Sunday noon. you did right in sending relief to the poor gardener’s family. I have ordered 1,200. bushels of the best coal from Richmond, which may be expected at Washington about the 3d. week of October. I salute you with affection & esteem. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. Lemaire”; endorsed by TJ.
you did right: see Lemaire to TJ, 17 Sep.
List of Letters Received from Carlos Martínez de Irujo Sep. 25. 1804. letters communicated to me by the Marquis de Casa Yrujo No. 1. 1804. May 31. Cevallos to Pinckney concerning the act only 2. 1803. Oct. 5. do. to do. respecting the claims for damages by French vessels
3. 1804. June 20. Pinckney to Cevallos. on the ratificn of the Convention 4. July 2. Cevallos to P. convention. modificns of it. 3 condns.1 1. time. 2 suppress article. 3. repeal Mobile act. 5. July 5. Pinckney to C. advising that he was writing circulars to vessels & Consuls & Medn. squad. on the probability of a rupture. 6. July 8. Cevallos to P. expressg. astonmt at his proceedings, & that he should send a vessel express to inform us. 7. July 10. Pinckney to C. that he was preparing to quit Madrid & would call for passports & askg. return of original ratifn. not signed 8. sa. da. Cevallos to P. asking him to say under his signature whether the note was his or not, or to call & give him a verbal answer the next day 430
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9.
July 11. at 11. aclock he had not written an answer nor called, & the dispatches to Yrujo were then sent off. Sep. 4. Yrujo recd them.
PoC (MoSHi: Jefferson Papers); entirely in TJ’s hand. Apparently neither TJ nor Madison had seen most of the letters before Irujo presented them to the president at Monticello. Charles Pinckney included copies of several of the letters in his dispatches to Madison of 20 Nov. 1803, 4 June 1804, and 20 July, but only the former two had arrived by this time and they contained only Pedro Cevallos’s replies to Pinckney of 5 Oct. 1803 and 31 May 1804 (see Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 6:77-8; 7:281-5, 486-97; and Madison to TJ, 28 Aug.). In his 20 July letter to Madison, Pinckney stated that reliable “secret intelligence” informed him that Cevallos planned to delay ratification of the 1802 convention to “get entirely rid” of all American claims. Writing to Cevallos on 22 June (probably the 20 June letter on the list printed above), Pinckney made a final appeal and demanded to know whether the king would “ratify the convention as it was made or not? considering any alteration at this time as amounting to a refusal.” Responding on 2 July, Cevallos stated that Spain was ready to ratify, but only under certain limitations and conditions. These included extending the time for presenting claims, suppressing the article of the convention regarding American claims for French
spoliations carried into Spanish ports, and repealing the law authorizing the Mobile collection district. Pinckney replied on 5 July that if Spain insisted on the second and third conditions, which he deemed “humiliating” to the United States, then he would send circulars to U.S. consuls in Spain and to the commander of the U.S. squadron in the Mediterranean warning of the prospect of a breach in relations between the two nations. He also asked Cevallos to return the original ratification and related papers. Cevallos responded three days later, insisting that the proposed conditions were just and criticizing Pinckney for unilaterally terminating negotiations without transmitting Spain’s terms to his government. The Spanish government had resolved to dispatch a special envoy to acquaint the United States with the state of affairs. The 10 July exchange of letters between Pinckney and Cevallos has not been found, but in a lengthy letter to Cevallos written on 14 July, Pinckney confirmed that he was preparing to return to the United States and asked Cevallos for passports (Trs in DNA: RG 59, NL; printed in asp, Foreign Relations, 2:618-24). 1 TJ originally ended the entry here, then returned to it to insert the three conditions.
To James Madison Th:J to mr Madison Monticello Sep. 25. 04. I intended to have been with you tomorrow evening, but it is rendered now improbable, partly by the weather, but more by the arrival of M. & Made. Yrujo last night. they are now here, and go back from hence to Washington. if they leave us tomorrow I shall be with you the next day. he has opened his budget which we have smoothed off. it must be the subject of verbal communication to you. affectionate salutations. 431
25 SEPTEMBER 1804 RC (DLC: Madison Papers). PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “Yrujo.” i shall be with you: TJ left Monticello for Washington on 27 Sep., spending his first night of travel at Montpelier.
He reached the capital on 30 Sep. Travel expenses for the journey totaled $24.56 (mb, 2:1136-7). To open one’s budget was to speak one’s mind (oed).
From James Monroe Dear Sir London Sepr. 25. 1804. My letters to Mr. Madison are so full on what concerns us, as to leave me little to add to you. I never experienc’d more difficulty in any case, than in deciding whether to hasten the negotiation with this govt. to a conclusion, & set out immediately in pursuit of the other object, or to let it take its natural course and consume a couple of months more, and pursue that object afterwards. The considerations which create the embarrassment are adverted to in my private letter to Mr. Madison. My judgment inclines rather in favor of the delay as well in respect to what is due to this power, as on the idea that little will be done in France, which pressing emergencies do not impose, till after the 9th. of Novr. Still if I can get off in a few days, wh. depends altogether on this govt., I shall not fail to do so. If I could forsee the probability of any change in affrs. likely to prove injurious to us, in the interim, I shod. be decided to proceed. But there does not appear to be any likelihood of such a change. Nor am I aware that any change could take place wh. would put us on a disadvantageous footing in the negotiation with Spain. I think she is much more interested than we in pressing an amicable arrangment of boundaries. The territory we now hold, puts her possessions pretty much at our mercy thro the whole extent of the Southern continent. She knows this and is alarmed at it. Her apprehensions are seen by every thing we hear from Madrid, tho’ the effect is not precisely what might be expected from it. It is said, as I hear, by Mr. Frere, that Mr. Pinckney has left Madrid without taking leave. The cause of this I know not, since it is long since I heard from him. To obtain a favorable result, I am not sorry that this incident has occurr’d, because I think the more a crisis is created the better the effect will be. This govt. can never unite with Spain against us, that is, such an event is among those which are so improbable, that it ought scarcely to be taken among data on which our calculations are to be formed. Nor will France be apt to join Spain against us, for the very reasons wh. induc’d her (so far as they were of a general political nature) to cede to us Louisiana. 432
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I think our attitude is not likely to be less imposing a few months hence with Spain than it now is. If she has assumed a high tone in the communications with Mr. Pinckney, I do suspect it is more the effect of transient causes, produc’d by what has occurr’d at Madrid, or by the communications of her minister at Washington, than any settled opinion of the policy she ought to observe towards us. She will probably get the better of her passions on some short reflection. But I hasard remarks on facts which are presumed, & therefore may err. If the business fails here in respect to the seamen, for in every other point it has substantially succeeded, in practice tho’ not by treaty with this govt, it remains to be decided in what light it is to be viewed in America. So far as I can form any opinion on the subject, it is that it shod. produce no irritation in our proceedings. The thing will come right here at no remote period of time & in my opinion sooner by a firm manly stile of conciliation, which shews it is not prompted by unworthy motives, than by an irritating, defying, one. The people have considerable influence over this govt; such a tone wod. impose a great restraint on it in respect to us; in fact I think it wod. produce here in many respects a good effect. And in our interior, the effect would be equally salutary. A certain description of people with us have no hope but in foreign wars. Their power attained great height in the controversy with France. Their present last resource is in one with England: they care but little with whom it is, so that it harrasses our country, expends money, & is likely to create discontent. This remark I apply only to certain leaders, not to the body, as I presume the latter has already seen enough to be satisfied. It was obvious to a distant spectator, and of course more so to those on the ground, that the discussions respecting seamen last winter, in the Congress, gave them pleasure; in their toasts they took the side (that is certain individuals did) of the British; intimated that the seamen taken were British not American (as is probably often the case), & thus encouraged the practice heretofore pursued by this power, & lessened the disposition to arrange it by treaty. I do not mention these things as criminal in these persons: such mode of discussion is incident to free government and ought to be protected not persecuted. But it shews that the publick mind is not altogether ripe for a rupture on that ground, since the quarter of the union most injured by these acts, not only does not complain but vindicates them. It seems to me as if an exhibition to the world, that our footing in all great points was perfectly friendly with the European powers; that important questions had been amicably arranged with them; that others which remained to be adjusted were in train, & it was not doubted would be concluded 433
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to the satisfaction of the parties, would deprive these gentry of the last resource, at the same time that it would be likely to produce the desired effect here, with every power. Permit me to ask will it not be better to shut up the country westward of the Mississippi for many years yet to come? Or if any exception is made to the doctrine, that it be in permitting the settlement, at a suitable time, of the right bank of the river only? If the territory is opened for sale westward of it, I think it will depopulate the old States, and endanger a seperation. To secure the union for ever I think the progress shod. be slow in that quarter, that is westward of the river; that we shod. make sure the steps we take, and see by the habitual exercise of government for some time over that region, that is the eastern side, what the effect of any other measure is likely to be. By such a course the present lands will be sold to advantage; American population will be planted on the Eastern side the river, who will cross & carry with them their principles of govt., of union, of local attachment, &c. This subject will I well know be sufficiently weighed. Feeling much anxiety on it I have taken the liberty to intimate concisely what I think on the subject. I have this moment read what is stated in the gazettes of the day, of the probability of an approaching rupture between this govt. and Spain, as suggested by Lord Harrowby to some merchants of the city, convened to receive it. It is possible his Lordship may be induc’d to delay his communication with me, on that acct., tho’ I confess I do not clearly see the motive of it, unless this shod. be a maneuvre, intended to produce an adjustment with Spain before I get there. Shod. that even happen I do not think it wod. be likely to prevent our success, because Spn. is more interested in the adjustment on fair terms than we; and because if the war lasts I do not think that any arrangment between G.B. & Spn. can be considered as final, since it must depend on other circumstances, not within the controul of either party, certainly not of Spain. However I sincerely wish I may be able to get off soon. To push the affr. on the moment of this publication would appear to be connected with it, and a measure produc’d by it. Still as his Lordship has not been open in his communications to me, he ought not to be surprised if I did so; they must feel mortified to see us profit of their follies, or likely to do so; yet it is surprising that they have not sufficient elevation of mind to act in such manner as to make the aids we derive from their measures, gain them some credit or acknowledgment on our part. Should any thing occur before the ship sails I will not fail to communicate it. 434
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I have heard nothing from Mr. Livingston since the 15th. of July, nor do I know in what state our affrs. are there; I hope the little affair of the distribution of the sum intended for our citizens, will not prove a cause of any serious trouble to us. My family enjoy good health at present & desire to be affecy. remembered to you and yours. I have heard but little of our neighbours in Albemarle, no change has I presume taken place among them. Peter Carr was much afflicted with a complaint when I left home. Is he recovered? I am Dear Sir with great respect & esteem yr. friend & servant Jas. Monroe PS. Just as I had resolv’d to write Lord Harrowby for an answer to my note, with a view to push my departure, I recd. from him the enclosed to which I gave the answer annex’d. My present determination is to write him on monday, in case he does not mention the subject to me on friday & there is cause to conclude that he is amusing me, to press such an answer; in that case it remains to be decided, whether I will notify to him my intention to depart for Spain immediately & regret that we could not conclude before I went, & make that the ground of the note, or leave it open by an ordinary complaint of delay, to further negotiation &c. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 9 Dec. and so recorded in SJL. FC (DLC: Monroe Papers); in a clerk’s hand; lacks signature. Enclosure: Lord Harrowby to Monroe, 26 Sep., with Monroe’s reply of the same date; Harrowby regrets that he has not had time to receive Monroe in his office and cannot yet “fix a time for that purpose”; but, interested in having Lady Harrowby make Mrs. Monroe’s acquaintance, he extends an invitation to the Monroes for dinner on 28 Sep.; in his reply, Monroe accepts the invitation (Tr in DLC; entirely in Monroe’s hand). Throughout the summer, Monroe sent private and public letters to Madison describing his attempts, before he departed for Spain, to conclude negotiations with the new British government and its foreign minister, Lord Harrowby. At issue were a treaty concerning impressments, claims related to the repayment of the Maryland bank stock, and approval of
the convention on boundaries between the United States and Canada, the fifth article of which, concerning the surveying of a line in the northwest, had been rejected by Congress (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:275-9, 402-5, 569-73; 8:2531, 45-50, 60-2; Vol. 42:250-1). John Hookham frere served for about two years as British minister to Spain. He was recalled in August 1804 (dnb). approaching rupture: on this day, Harrowby met with a committee of merchants specializing in trade with Spain and explained to them that negotiations between the two countries remained “uncertain.” British representatives had expressed particular concern about the fitting out of armed ships in Spanish ports, but according to Harrowby “no explanation whatever had been received” from the Spanish and no “satisfactory explanation could be given” (London Morning Chronicle, 29 Sep.; Jackson’s Oxford Journal, 29 Sep.).
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From James Old D, Sir Septr. 25. 1804 I have in my hands a CaSa Brown Rives & Co agt. William Stewart, I presume your assistance would be asked for in this buisiniss, should you feel inclined to assist Stewart please leave instructions with Mr Lilly the amount does not exceede 20$ Your ob Set James Olds. RC (DLC); addressed: “Thomas Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ as received 25 Sep. and so recorded in SJL with notation “20. D. for Stewart.” James Old (or Olds; ca. 1754-1821) moved from Pennsylvania to Albemarle County, where he operated a mill. He was the county sheriff in 1804 and in other years served as a justice of the peace (Papers of the Albemarle County Historical Society, 10 [1949-50], 36; William W. Reynolds, “A Pennsylvania Ironmaster Moves South: John Old of Berks and Albemarle Counties,” Virginia Genealogist,
34 [1990], 287-93; Woods, Albemarle, 292, 377; mb, 2:1136; rs, 6:576). casa: that is, capias ad satisfaciendum, a writ demanding a sheriff take into custody an adjudged debtor (Bryan A. Garner, ed., Black’s Law Dictionary, 8th ed. [St. Paul, Minn., 2004], 221). In his financial memoranda, TJ recorded at 23 Mch. 1805 paying Gabriel lilly “for James Old on W. Stewart’s acct. the 20.D. ante Sep. 27. Note, the money sent for this purpose ante Dec. 10. had been paid to other persons for W. Stewart” (mb, 2:1136, 1142, 1149).
From Thomas Truxtun Sir Perth amboy Sep. 25th. 1804. The enclosed* may not be unworthy the serious attention of Government, inasmuch as a cultivation of marine science is much wanted on this side of the atlantick, from the Yet to be expected deficiency of our sea Officers, I have therefore done myself the honor to Transmit you the several documents herewith Not only as the Cheif majistrate of the Union, but as a Gentleman of science who will see the benifits to be derived from the admirable improvements of Hoppe in both the instruments alluded to in his communication to me. I should not have troubled you at this time on such an affair when I know you must be occupied by others of greater moment—but the ardent solicitude I bear towards the encouragement of genius and the cultivation of the young minds employed in our sea service will I trust plead my apology, and especially as I view them under all the disadvantages they labour, and particulary that of our having No Marine Seminary in which they should be taught the Rudiments of naval tacticks, navigation and all the branches of Mathematicks &c having an essential connection with their profession. 436
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I have the honor to be Sir respectfully Your very obt Servant. Thomas Truxtun. * No. 1. 2. 3. 4 contents of packet. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esqr President of the US.”; endorsed by TJ; recorded in SJL as received 1 Oct. Enclosures: (1) Truxtun to Ebenezer Hoppe, dated Perth Amboy, 25 Sep., on the scientific principles of ocean navigation (Tr in same). (2) Statement by Truxtun, undated, on the naval force and armaments needed for the
reduction of Tripoli (Tr in same). Other enclosures not found, but see below. several documents: Truxtun also forwarded to TJ a letter sent to him by Ebenezer Hoppe, dated 18 July, not found, but referenced in Truxtun’s 25 Sep. response to Hoppe, and a copy of An Explanation of E. Hoppe’s Improved Sextant (see TJ to Truxtun, 4 Oct.).
From Matthew C. Groves Dr. Sir— Boston 26th. Septr. 1804. The extreme politeness, and Condescention, which your excellency manifested, in enclosing my papers to robert Paterson Esqe of Philadelphia, for his Opinion of a System, which I had the honor of presenting to your excellency, for the discovery of the Longitude at Sea, by Observing the eclipses of the Satallites of Jupiter, and your goodness, in forwarding that opinion to me, to Boston, under Cover of your letter and Signature, Justifies my feelings, at the moment I write for the freedom I have taken. Independant of the raptures I embrace for the freedom I enjoy, when I dare presume to adress the first magistrate of a free people. And one of the greatest and best of men. Without being under Necessity, of useing the means of bribery and Corruption. The errors which I have Commited, (if they deserve to be termed Such) in engageing in this Study, originated from the firm belief, that the almighty Creator of the universe, wou’d not make so great a portion of this globe a deep Sea, without leaveing some Signs, and tokens, in the firmament by whose Means we his Creatures may be enabled to find our way. And what led me yet more to the Strong assurance of that belief, was, that as he had fixed the Sun as one positive sign, by whose means the mariner is enabled to measure the distance run by a ship, either North, or South, by lattitude, That the Same almighty power, had fixed some other positive sign in Nature (yet undiscovered) to direct him to Measure the distance run either east or west by Longitude. Your excellency will Notice by the paper enclosed1 ([the origin]als of which I have in writing) the pains I have taken, and the Opinions I have had, to Support [me, all] which are 437
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inserted that of Robert Patersons excepted. That gentlemans opinion being the only [one opposed] to So many, I thought prudent not to include it— The Merchants in This place, observing the pains I had taken to promote the publick wellfare, Opened [a gener]ous Subscription with the usual Spirit of Bostonians, in my favour, by which means I was enabled to reach London. On my arrival I was disposed to bring the business to a speedy Conclusion, And made application, to have an interview with some of the Commissions of the board of Longitude. In this my innocent heart has betray’d me, As I was soon made to understand, that I must first bribe the Scrivener body Servants and all the tribe in Livery about house, before I Coud gain access to the master. Struck with the detested Idea, with horror, I waited Six weeks to the first of december last, and presented my papers to the board of Longitude. The Board Consists of twenty members. Lord St. Vincents president.2 Two of which are acting members only, N. Maskaline, and Sir Joseph Banks. to these two persons every Nautical project is left as a Commitee, to report to the board their opinion of the practibillity, or impractabillity of the System proposed. Unfortunately Sir Joseph Banks was so extremely ill with the gout, which rendered him unable to attend either the board or the Philosophic Society of which he is president. On takeing this unfortunate disappointment into Consideration, And by the advice of friends, I gave a power of atorney to a friend in London, with directions to take out a Cavett, a paper that is given at the patent office, which Costs one pound Sterling, and which Secures any invention to the individual for one year, during which time he makes improvements upon his invention, and if it proves useless and impractable, he looses the pound. if practicable, and he takes out the patent it Costs one hundred Guineas. I do not hesitate when I inform your excellency, that this Study, was too powerfull for my intellect to support. the exertions which I made to gain it by the revolution of the earth, was the rock upon which I Split. And which was the Cause of my misery. Being perswaded too much, from the testimony which my feelings pronounced to support within me, that one of my Cast of mind, Could not move upon the Surface of this globe, and be so Stupid, as to be unable to measure the distance. Sometimes, want of Sleep, would bring the most powerfull enemies upon me. Millions if Possible of regular, and Confused Ideas, accompanied I am perswaded with traces of mental derangement. Could I but limit the Number of Ideas, or banish them at pleasure, I should 438
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have enjoyed some intervals of rest. The reverse was the Case. If I went down my Cellar, or on the house top, I Could not escape. Under these terrible impressions, the reins given to imagination, where the Senses Could not find any object to rest upon, Occationd the mind at times to wander to far from the Camp, amonst enemies. I now have the pleasure to inform your excellency, that this mind is now Sprung by the elastic force of its Natural powers, within the barriers of its own limits, beyond the power of insult. If the mind may be Considered a member of the body, and subject to ill Conveniencies like the leg or arm, Consequently whenever it is overwhelmed, with oppression, either the mind, or body, or both must give way, But if the mind possesses an ambitious, energic, Virtue, No Sooner is the Oppression removed, than it begins insensibly to recoil and Collect itself, to feed again deliciously upon the fair Construction of its original happiness—The man is happy who Can Support this impression with magnanimity. it is he who Can taste with delight, the perfect knowledge of that enchanting Image when beautifully impressed which enables, the elevation of a great mind, to mount up and to embrace the Sensations of that delicate Stroke, elegantly figured upon the imagination, which detatches one thing from the other distinctly. For the Above reasons your excellency will observe that I do not pretend to include the time I was engaged in this Study. to wear the Same Complexion, either for health, happiness, or Steadiness of habits, with the time previous to it, nor with the present. your excellency would be assured of the foregoing remark, had I not declared it—As respects the satallites of Jupiter, I did not possess a nautical almanac, twenty minutes, before I Conciev’d of the Idea, of reduceing the Satallites, with the plannet, to the horizon for Observation. I have left nothing unfinished respecting this last point, having lodged it for decision at the highest point of human perfection— I have the pleasure to inform your excellency that I enjoy a great State of health. was I in any way of business now, I should be happy. had money been my favourite pursuit, it is probable that my Circumstances would not be so extremely limited. I have a wife and eight fine Children, which are dear to me. And this is all, which I have to boast of at the end of this arduous and afflicting pursuit. Your excellency will Observe by the foregoing, that I Cannot be happy. And that I am perswaded, from the Severe experience which I have had. That there exists none, but Gentlemen of fine feelings. The Philosopher, and Such as are truly great, that are Capable of drawing neat inferences, and Just Conclusions of a person of my discription, 439
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so unpleasantly Situated—Your excellency may believe me when I assure you, That the politeness, and attention, with which Your excellency, has treated the project, and projector, far exceeds anything I have experienced on both Sides of the atlantick—Therefore I have not been so happy, as to meet with any Gentleman, who Corresponds with the above discription, Your excellency excepted— Should your excellency Veiw my exertions in the Same favourable point of Veiw, as when I had the honor of an interveiw with you at the federal City, I think it my duty, while I feel the most painfull diffidence hovering about me. And again feel the most passing Sensations, in behalf of my family, To Call up the feelings of the first gaurdian of Science in our Country, and to inform you, under uncomfortable existing Circumstances, That if your excellency should be perswaded, That the individual who entered the list so Spiritedly, Covered with enthusiasm, and a perseverance that Never was exceeded, into the Service of the publick, deserves to be rewarded. And Your goodness should be disposed, to protect, to patronize, and raise up again, upon the Common level with his fellow Citizens. One who3 is now dependant upon an ungratefull, and an unfeeling world, and who appears to be Now Sinking in Obscurity, having No Capital to Set up any business. And one whose honesty, and varacity, will Support the most rigid Scrutiny. And on whom misfortunes are falling rapidly, from the highest point of philantrophy. Should your excellency be disposed to appoint this individual, to fill up any office in the government to Which your excellency may be pleased to bestow, which may enable him to move on with his family in Credit and decency. I shall forget all past misfortunes. And be the happiest man Liveing—The miseries which I have Seen the people of england endure, under an arbitrary, and a Tyranical monarchy.4 And the Oppression which I have disengaged from a mind worn down with Care, afflictions, and anxiety, Cannot fail to Contribute to Support that happiness. No more Dr Sir but do myself the pleasure to Subscribe myself, your excellency’s friend assuredly Matthew C. Groves PS Dr. Sir. The enclosed political Ideas, are the first I ever attempted for the press. I forward them to your excellency to prove that he, who attempted the longitude at Sea, Can form Ideas upon other objects. Gratitude will forever prompt me to Support your excellency. The Honble. Nicholas Gilman Esqe. and others, have told me they wou’d use their influence with General Dearborn, now in this quarter, to use his influence with your excellency in my behalf. In the foregoing letter I have related every particular. Neither want of Confidence, 440
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nor Vanity nor want of honesty, was ever in any instance attributed to me. I have had the Care of many thousand Dollars, for twenty three years I saild from this port in the Service of one gentleman, the Honble. Thomas Russell Esqe. I shall not trouble your excellency with any more remarks, excepting that I believe there are a number of Still drones, under the patronage of your excellency, between Philadelphia, and Portland, who neither possess abillities nor inclination to Serve yr. Excellency, I remn. as before yr. Excellency’s friend assuredly Matthew C. Groves RC (DLC); torn, text in brackets supplied from Dupl; at head of text: “To his excellency Thomas Jefferson Esqe President of the united States of America”; endorsed by TJ as received 10 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Dupl (same); undated; at head of text: “To His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esqr. President of the united States of America”; lacks postscript; most significant variations noted below; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Nov. and “employment” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures: (1) “Groves’s Patent Astronomical Quadrant,” a printed broadside; with recommendations from Bishop John Carroll, Theophilus Parsons, and others, as well as an address by Groves at Boston on 16 Aug. 1803 comparing single and double reflection in telescopes and quadrants and promoting a plan to discover longitude at sea with his astronomical quadrant, for which he is seeking subscription support (in Papers of the Board of Longitude, Royal Greenwich Observatory, Cambridge University Library). (2) “Hear me for I will Speak,” an undated essay denouncing the use of
titles of nobility and partisan efforts to raise a standing army and extolling TJ’s role in the acquisition of Louisiana, signed “A Bostonian” (MS in DLC; entirely in Groves’s hand). honor of presenting: for TJ’s forwarding to Robert Patterson of Groves’s method of observing the moons of Jupiter in October 1802 and Patterson’s assessment, see Vol. 38:153-4, 617-18, 643. Groves had talked with TJ at the fed eral city. In recounting his visit with TJ, Groves later wrote to Joseph Banks that TJ had made suggestions for some modifications to Groves’s quadrant (Groves to Banks, 28 Nov. 1803, in Papers of the Board of Longitude, Royal Greenwich Observatory, Cambridge University Library). 1
Dupl: “observe by the printed paper.” Dupl: “The first lord of the admiralty is President.” 3 Dupl: “one who has seen better days, and.” 4 Dupl: “Government.” 2
From James Maury Dear Sir, Liverpool 26th Septr 1804 I have recieved the letter of 20th July with which you have had the goodness to honor me. The bills shall be accepted whenever they appear. The perusal of this letter affected me exceedingly; and indeed, how could it be otherwise, since it is so flattering a testimony of that friendship you have invariably shewn for me from so early a period & brings to my mind the most pleasing recollections. I pray you, Sir, to accept 441
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my best thanks for these kind attentions: as I do for the good account you give me of my worthy brother, for whom I had long been alarmed. Many in this country also are deeply anxious for it’s crisis, which appears awful beyond precedent. Nevertheless Trade seems to go on as if no such thing existed. The exports to the United States from this place the late summer appear to have been immense, & our vessells have had the exclusive advantage of carrying them. I have the honor to be with every sentiment of esteem & respect Your much obliged friend & Servant James Maury RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States of America”; endorsed by TJ as received 17 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. FC (Lb in NN).
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, New-Orleans Septr. 27th. 1804. I have recently experienced the heaviest of Afflictions.—It has pleased Allmighty God to call to the abodes of Rest my whole family.—On the evening of the 25th. Instant my only Child, a sweet little Daughter near three years of Age, breathed her last, and on the morning ensuing Mrs. Claiborne closed a Life, with the continuance of which my happiness was intimately connected.—Every medical exertion was made to avert the fatal issue;—But the Decree of Providence was irrevocable, and I shall endeavour to submit to it with fortitude and resignation. On last evening, I received my Dear Sir, your Communication of the 30th. Ultimo, together with its several enclosures.—This additional proof of your Confidence, awakens every feeling of Gratitude, and will make me more emulous of deserving your good opinion. I shall do myself the honor to write you again in a few Days, and will by next Post answer the official Letter from the Secretary of State;—At present, my mind dwells too incessantly on my recent misfortunes to admit of my attending to Business. I pray God to preserve you in health and happiness. Your faithful friend! William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 6 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. my only child: Cornelia Tennessee Claiborne (Vol. 35:733n).
official letter from the secre tary of state: Madison to Claiborne, 30 Aug., which enclosed Claiborne’s commission as governor of Orleans Territory (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:655-6).
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From Nicolas Gouin Dufief Monsieur, Philadelphia. 27 de Septembre 1804 J’aurais bien désiré envoyer à Monticello vos exemplaires de mon ouvrage, le jour même qu’il a paru; mais comme le paquet était un peu gros & qu’il ne s’est point offert d’occasions particulières je me suis vu forcé d’attendre, pour cet effet, le départ d’un bâtiment pour Georgetown & j’ai chargé Mr John March de vous les faire tenir par l’entremise de Mr Barnes Mon ouvrage étant publié, je ne dois plus en parler; d’ailleurs à quoi cela me servirait-il surtout avec vous, puisque l’habitude que vous avez de vous occuper de matières abstraites (sans parler de votre pénétration) vous fera bientôt juger des défauts ou des Avantages de la nouvelle méthode que je propose. Je me suis appuyé à la page xxxviii de votre opinion, car j’ai cru que des idées justes & qui seront certainement utiles ne devaient pas être conservées oisivement dans le portefeuille d’un Amateur des lettres, Publicum bonum sit suprema lex—cette considération me fait esperer que je trouverai plusque Grâce, auprès de vous pour cette liberté là. Agréez, je vous prie, l’assurance de mon profond respect, & les souhaits que je forme pour votre prospérité. Votre tres dévoué serviteur N. G. Dufief e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Sir, Philadelphia, 27 Sep. 1804 I would have liked to send copies of my work to Monticello on the very day it was published, but since the package was rather large and no opportunities presented themselves, I had to wait until the departure of a ship for Georgetown. I have asked Mr. John March to give them to you through the intermediary of Mr. Barnes. Now that my book has been published, I no longer need to talk about it. Besides, what good would that do me with you, since your practice of abstract thinking (not to mention your penetrating intellect) will soon lead you to judge the advantages or defects of the new method I am proposing. On page xxxviii, I relied on your thought, in the belief that ideas that are clearly true and useful should not be kept hidden in a book lover’s folders. Publicum bonum sit suprema lex. This conviction prompts me to hope that you will accord me more than grace for taking this liberty. I beg you to accept my deep respect and wishes for your well-being. Your very devoted servant, N. G. Dufief RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Ths Jefferson, President of the United States”;
endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
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27 SEPTEMBER 1804 mon ouvrage: Nature Displayed, in Her Mode of Teaching Language to Man, published in 1804 in Philadelphia. votre opinion: Dufief quoted from TJ’s letter of 15 Nov. 1802, in which TJ positively
appraised the method outlined in a manuscript version of the work (Vol. 39:9-10). publicum bonum sit suprema lex: may the common good be the supreme law.
To John Harvie Dear Sir Monticello Sep. 27.04. The bearer hereof, James Oldham, has lived with me several years, is an able workman in housejoinery, skilled in the orders of architecture, honest, sober and industrious. he wishes to get into business on a larger scale than that of merely monthly wages and I have recommended Richmond to him as a place where he will find no superior, and as I suppose no equal; and where, when once he can make himself known, he cannot fail of employ. taking an interest in his success, and knowing that a first introduction is the most difficult step, I have taken the liberty of making his character known to you, and of asking your advice and influence on his behalf towards getting himself under way. I have presumed you could be useful to him in this way, as you probably know those concerned in building or having building to do. any services you can render him in his line will oblige me, and you may rely on his acquitting himself of his undertakings so as to do justice to your recommendation. I salute you with friendship & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Colo. Harvie”; endorsed by TJ.
From Benjamin Harwood Sir Annapolis September 28h: 1804. I have the honor to inform you, that I have received an Appointment from the Executive of this State, which precludes me from holding an Office under the Government of the United States. You will therefore be pleased to consider this communication as my resignation of the Office as Commissioner of Loans for the United States in the State of Maryland from and after the 30th. instant. Permit me Sir to mention Mr. Henry Hall Harwood as a person well qualified to conduct and execute the duties of that Office, He is a Gentleman conversant in that business having acted in my Office for a number of Years, and who I can, with confidence recommend as a Man of probity and attention to business. 444
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I have the honor to be With perfect respect Sir, Your Obt Servant B. Harwood RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and “resigns as Commr. loans Maryld.— Harwood Henry H. to be appd” and so recorded in SJL. Annapolis merchant Benjamin Harwood (1751-1826) became Maryland’s receiver of Continental taxes in 1780 and in 1792 received the appointment of commissioner of loans following the resignation of older brother Thomas Harwood. In 1804 he succeeded his brother again, this time as
treasurer of the western shore of Maryland, a position he held until his death. Harwood was for many years a treasurer of St. John’s College (Eugenia Calvert Holland and Louisa Macgill Gary, “Miniatures in the Collection of the Maryland Historical Society,” Maryland Historical Magazine, 51 [1956], 348; Washington, Papers, Pres. Ser., 4:455-6; jep, 1:126; Annapolis Maryland Gazette, 27 Sep., 4 Oct., 2 Feb. 1826; St. John’s College, Register of the Graduates and Alumni of St. John’s College at Annapolis, Maryland [Baltimore, 1908], 22).
From John F. Mercer Dear Sir Annapolis Septr. 28th. 1804. The Bearer Mr. Henry H. Harwood has sollicited from me a letter, recommending him to you, to fill the office of Commissioner of Loans of this State, become vacant by the resignation of Mr. Benjamin Harwood lately appointed our Treasurer— peculiar circumstances attending this application in a great degree repress, the reluctance I naturally feel in putting to the test, the small claim, I may suppose I possess to your friendship or partiality—these circumstances are that Mr Harwood has acted in this office for near ten years, & is really master of its duties—that by the appointment of the Legislature he acted as Agent of this state untill that office became unnecessary,—that since, he has been occasionally 1 selected by the Executive to discharge duties which discoverd confidence on the one part, & required ability & integrity on the other—that he has this life I beleive, so conducted himself as an Officer & a Gentleman, as to conciliate the universal good opinion & good wishes here, & in fine that no appointment coud I beleive give more general satisfaction.— In writing to you I am forcibly led to say something on another subject, which is very near my heart but as it is foreign to the present purpose I shall await a more favorable opportunity asuring you of the high respect & esteem with which I am Dr Sir Yr. sincere friend & Servant John F: Mercer RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and so recorded in SJL; also endorsed by TJ: “Harwood Henry H. to be Commr. loans Maryld.”
1 Word interlined in place of “frequently.”
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From William Kilty Sir Washn Septr 29th 1804 The Office of Commissioner of Loans, in the State of Maryland, has become Vacant, by the resignation of Mr B: Harwood who is appointed Treasurer of the State Among the Candidates for this office, is Mr John Brewer of the City of Annapolis whom I take the liberty of recommending to You This Gentleman is at present a Clerk with the Register of the Land Office of Maryland and, in addition to my own knowledge, I have the Strongest reasons from the Testimony of that officer, (who is my Brother) to be Satisfied of the Justness of my recommendation I have Known Mr Brewer for some Years in Annapolis where I beleive He was born and where He is Settled with a Small family I have always Considered him as a Young Man of uncommon Talents for his Sphere of life, and from that Circumstance and his Assiduity and Attention to business I have no doubt of his being fully Qualified to fill the office which he Sollicits. I think it proper to Add that Mr Brewer is, and Was in the Worst of times, a firm and decided Republican, and that his Character in every other respect is perfectly fair I have the Honour to be With Great Respect Your Obt Servt Wm Kilty RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Th: Jefferson Esqe.”; not recorded in SJL.
my brother: John Kilty (Vol. 38: 521-3).
From Charles François d’Anmours Sir, New Orleans, Sepbre. 30th 1804. If the Hurricanes that have so much agitated the Ocean of the Political world, since I had the Pleasure of seeing you last, on the Borders of the Atlantic, have not entirely erazed from your Memory the features of a man you always treated with a distinguished Kindness; you will perhaps hear, with a smile of satisfaction, that that man is still alive, and still full of the same sentiments of attachment and Respect with which you inspired him from the first instant of his acquaintance with you. Retired from Publick affairs ever since the death of the last, and most unfortunate, of the Kings of France, I have also, at the same time, withdrawn from the active part of society; and from my Retreat, in the bosom of the immense forests of Louisiana, have Re 446
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mained a Passive, and almost an indifferent Spectator, of the scenes that have been acted on the theatre of the world, and a Judge of the performances of the actors. yet, amongst them, one has afforded me a real pleasure; and it is that of your Being raised to the first rank of the new World; not so much indeed on your own account, as on that of mankind at large: it is so very seldom it sees a true Philosopher ascend a station from which he may strengthen his precepts by his own Example. This letter, Sir, will be deliver’d to you by M. Derbigny, a most intimate friend of mine. of him I will Say but little; Because you will soon discover his own merit and value. In the present circumstances one point, however may render him more particularly interesting to you. He has Long resided in upper, as well as in lower Louisianna. for Several years he has been Employ’d in the Spanish Service in these Parts; and a Genius for observation, cultivated by a classical, and Polite Education, have Render’d him, in every Respect, a proper source of information concerning this country, its Population, and other relatives; and I believe from him may be derived more solid, and impartial, information upon those subjects than (I have Reasons to believe it) was ever transmitted from this to the atlantic side of the alleghany’s. with the Sincerest Sentiments of attachment for your Person, and the highest respectfull ones for your Rank I have the honour to be Sir, your most obedient and Most humble Servt Ch. d’Anemours; formerly consul General of France in virginia &c. &c. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 11 Dec. and so recorded in SJL. my retreat: d’Anmours had been living up the Ouachita River some 300 miles from the mouth of the Red River in
what one observer described as a kind of edenic splendor. During the following year, he was nominated for a seat on the territorial council and appointed a judge for Ouachita (Terr. Papers, 9:524, 598; Vol. 35:558-9).
From Thomas T. Davis Sir. St Vincennes Septr. 30th 1804. The Judges of this Territory are divided in Opinion on Two very important points. Towit. Judge Griffin is of Opinion that if one Citizen of the United States commits Murder on the body of another Citizen of the United States: or commits any other felony or out-rage on the person or property of another Citizen of the United States on 447
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Indian Lands, within the Limits of this Territory that the Courts here have no Jurisdiction over the Offender. At this moment a Prisoner is in Jail for a Gross Murder on the Indian Lands both the Murderer & the Murdred were Citizens of the U.S by Birth. Griffin has gone to Kaskaska—Tomorrow Judge Vanderburgh goes to Detroit—I stay here to try the Prisoner. Another case is before us Towit. Goods were Libeled in the Court of Common pleas in Detroit & Judgment obtained in favor of the U.S. an appeal was taken to the General Court Judge Vanderburgh is of opinion that the Courts of this Territory have no Jurisdiction in cases that relate to Revenue. I differ from the other Judges on both those points.—Perhaps Legislative provisions may be necessary. I am respectfully yr obt Sevt. Tho. T Davis RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 1 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. prisoner: Robert Slaughter, indicted for murder in 1798, had recently been extradited from Tennessee to the Indiana Territory to stand trial. At a 15 Sep. session of the territory’s General Court, Slaughter claimed the court lacked cog-
nizance because his crime took place on lands not yet ceded to the United States. Davis rejected the argument, however, and a jury subsequently found Slaughter guilty on 3 Oct. Davis sentenced him to death the following day (Terr. Papers, 7:219-20; Lexington Kentucky Gazette, 13 Nov.).
From Allen Bowie Duckett Sir, Annapolis 30th. Oct. [i.e. Sep.] 1804. Mr. Edward Hall has been induced by the advice of his Friends, to apply for the Office of Commissioner of Loans, lately become vacant, by the appointment of Mr. Benjamin Harwood one of the Treasurers of Maryland. Mr. Hall was seven years a respectable Member of the General Assembly of this State, and has served for the last five years, as one of the Council.—These facts, it is presumed, furnish unequivocal evidence of the respectability of his character and of his standing in Maryland;— and altho’ other Gentlemen may also be qualified to discharge the duties of the Office; yet I believe it may be safely asserted, that the appointment could be conferred on very few (if any) in the State, where it would be more generally approved.—It would be an object of great importance to Mr. Hall himself, and would doubtless be satisfactory to the State at large.—With every sentiment of respect, I have the Honor to subscribe myself your very Obt & h’ble Servt. Allen B Duckett 448
1 OCTOBER 1804 RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 2 Oct. and “Hall Edward to be Commr. loans Maryld.” and so recorded in SJL. Allen Bowie Duckett (d. 1809), a son of Maryland planter Thomas Duckett, graduated from the College of New Jersey at Princeton in 1794. Combining a legal career with an active political life, Duckett represented Prince George’s County in the Maryland legislature from 1796 to 1800 and then served on the governor’s executive council until 1806, when TJ
appointed him an associate justice of the circuit court of the District of Columbia. In 1807, Duckett and fellow Republican justice Nicholas Fitzhugh overruled Federalist chief justice William Cranch in deciding that Justus Erich Bollmann and Samuel Swartwout be held without bail for alleged participation in the Aaron Burr conspiracy (J. Jefferson Looney and Ruth L. Woodward, Princetonians, 17911794: A Biographical Dictionary [Princeton, 1991], 47-8; Albert J. Beveridge, The Life of John Marshall, 4 vols. [1916-19], 3:346; Vol. 33:202-3n).
To Archibald Stuart Dear Sir [September 1804?] No special invitation can be necessary to satisfy you that you are a welcome guest here at all times & all hours. whenever your court rises by 3 aclock you can get here to our dinner; but at that or at any other day or hour convenient to yourself we shall always be glad to see you. ever & affectionately yours Th: Jefferson RC (ViHi); undated (see below); addressed: “The honble Judge Stewart Charlottesville.” Not recorded in SJL. whenever your court rises: as part of his responsibilities as a judge on Virginia’s General Court, to which he had been appointed in 1800, Stuart presided over district court sessions on a rotating basis. He and another judge were assigned to the districts based in Staunton,
Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, and Haymarket for the summer terms of 1804, the earliest Charlottesville assignment for Stuart that the Editors have been able to confirm. Stuart wrote to TJ from Charlottesville on 23 Sep., several days after the district court had convened (Richmond Virginia Argus, 4 July; Albemarle County District Court Deed Book, 1:212; anb; Vol. 43:465-9).
From Jean Étienne Boré and Others Monsieur le Nelle. Orléans le 1er. Octobre 1804, Président. et la 29e de l’Indépendance des Etats Unis. Nous avons l’honneur de vous recommander au nom des habitans de la Louisiane, dont nous sommes en ce moment les organes, M.M. Derbigny, Destréhan et Sauvé, porteurs d’un Mémoire qui renferme les remontrances respectueuses de cette Colonie, au Congrès des Etats unis de l’Amérique. 449
1 OCTOBER 1804 RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 2 Oct. and “Hall Edward to be Commr. loans Maryld.” and so recorded in SJL. Allen Bowie Duckett (d. 1809), a son of Maryland planter Thomas Duckett, graduated from the College of New Jersey at Princeton in 1794. Combining a legal career with an active political life, Duckett represented Prince George’s County in the Maryland legislature from 1796 to 1800 and then served on the governor’s executive council until 1806, when TJ
appointed him an associate justice of the circuit court of the District of Columbia. In 1807, Duckett and fellow Republican justice Nicholas Fitzhugh overruled Federalist chief justice William Cranch in deciding that Justus Erich Bollmann and Samuel Swartwout be held without bail for alleged participation in the Aaron Burr conspiracy (J. Jefferson Looney and Ruth L. Woodward, Princetonians, 17911794: A Biographical Dictionary [Princeton, 1991], 47-8; Albert J. Beveridge, The Life of John Marshall, 4 vols. [1916-19], 3:346; Vol. 33:202-3n).
To Archibald Stuart Dear Sir [September 1804?] No special invitation can be necessary to satisfy you that you are a welcome guest here at all times & all hours. whenever your court rises by 3 aclock you can get here to our dinner; but at that or at any other day or hour convenient to yourself we shall always be glad to see you. ever & affectionately yours Th: Jefferson RC (ViHi); undated (see below); addressed: “The honble Judge Stewart Charlottesville.” Not recorded in SJL. whenever your court rises: as part of his responsibilities as a judge on Virginia’s General Court, to which he had been appointed in 1800, Stuart presided over district court sessions on a rotating basis. He and another judge were assigned to the districts based in Staunton,
Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, and Haymarket for the summer terms of 1804, the earliest Charlottesville assignment for Stuart that the Editors have been able to confirm. Stuart wrote to TJ from Charlottesville on 23 Sep., several days after the district court had convened (Richmond Virginia Argus, 4 July; Albemarle County District Court Deed Book, 1:212; anb; Vol. 43:465-9).
From Jean Étienne Boré and Others Monsieur le Nelle. Orléans le 1er. Octobre 1804, Président. et la 29e de l’Indépendance des Etats Unis. Nous avons l’honneur de vous recommander au nom des habitans de la Louisiane, dont nous sommes en ce moment les organes, M.M. Derbigny, Destréhan et Sauvé, porteurs d’un Mémoire qui renferme les remontrances respectueuses de cette Colonie, au Congrès des Etats unis de l’Amérique. 449
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Nous ôsons nous flatter que Vous aurez la bonté de les accueillir favorablement, et qu’en applaudissant au motif de la mission dont ils ont été honorés par leurs Concitoyens, vous daignerez les appuyer dans leurs justes demandes. Telle est; au moins, l’opinion que nous avons conçue, dans la ferme persuasion où nous sommes que si vos intentions paternelles eussent été suivies, nous jouirions aujourd’hui des mêmes droits, des mêmes privilèges que les Citoyens des Etats-Unis. Les Colons de la Louisiane durent en effet supposer, lorsqu’ils virent l’ami de l’humanité, le premier Magistrat de l’Amérique, annexer leur pays aux Etats unis, qu’il ne le faisait que pour étendre jusqu’à eux le bienfait de la liberté, et les faire participer aux mêmes immunités. Mais des préjugés, de fausses préventions, des rapports peu fidèles, sur le caractère des Louisianais, et sur leur civilisation, devaient les priver de ces biens inapréciables, pour lesquels ils donneraient mille Vies; et ils ont la douleur de se Voir aujourd’hui, une espèce avilie, au milieu du Peuple le plus libre de l’Univers. Le sentiment profond de l’état de dégradation sous lequel on les a dépeints, ne cesserait d’être pour eux, un sujet de deuil et d’affliction, s’il ne leur restait l’espoir que le Congrès sera détrompé, et qu’il aura égard à la justice de leurs réclamations. Nous avons l’honneur, Monsieur le Président, de Vous présenter les assurances de notre profond respect, et Vous prions de croire que nos Concitoyens et nous, ne cessons de faire des Vœux, pour la conservation de Vos jours, et la prospérité des Etats unis de l’Amérique. Les Membres du Comité de la Louisiane; Boré président Jacq Fortier Salomon Prevost Evan Jones J. Livaudais J. Carrick Dorville Paul Lanusse Jn. Soulié Robelot
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New Orleans, 1 Oct. 1804 Mister President, 29th year of Independence of the United States On behalf of the inhabitants of Louisiana, whom we represent, we have the honor of introducing Messrs. Derbigny, Destréhan, and Sauvé, the bearers of a memoir containing this colony’s respectful remonstrances to the Congress of the United States of America. We dare flatter ourselves into thinking that you will welcome these emissaries warmly and support their just requests because of the mission their compatriots have entrusted to them. That, at least, is our conviction, based on the firm belief that if your paternal intentions had been followed, we would already enjoy the same rights and privileges as citizens of the United States. Indeed, when the colonists of Louisiana saw humanity’s friend, the first magistrate of America, annex their country to the United States, they necessarily assumed he did so only to grant them the gift of freedom and allow them to share the same benefits as citizens. Yet prejudice, unfair obstacles, and unreliable reports about the character and culture of Louisianians have deprived them of these inestimable gifts for which they would sacrifice a thousand lives. Now they have the sorrow of seeing themselves treated as a reviled race among the freest people in the universe. Profoundly aware that they have been depicted as a degraded people, the Louisianians would be endlessly afflicted and sorrowful if they were not hopeful that Congress would recognize this injustice and appreciate their just demands. We have the honor, Mister President, of assuring you of our deep respect, and we beg you to believe that we and our fellow citizens wish a long life to you and prosperity to the United States of America. The members of the Louisiana Committee, Boré, president Jacq Fortier Salomon Prevost Evan Jones J. Livaudais J. Carrick Dorville Paul Lanusse Jn. Soulié Robelot RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Boré and others; at head of text: “À Monsieur Thomas Jefferson, Président des Etats-Unis de l’Amérique.” Recorded in SJL as received 11 Dec. with notation “by Sauvé &c.” les remontrances respectueuses: see William C. C. Claiborne to TJ, 1 July. pour étendre jusqu’à eux le bi enfait de la liberté: although the
remonstrances carried to Washington asserted a universal belief among residents of lower Louisiana that they should be immediately welcomed into statehood and equal citizenship, at least one dissent made its way into TJ’s papers. In a lengthy analysis of the memorial, the author, who wrote in French and identified himself as a “Louisianais,” argued that the appeal to Congress had not met general approval in New Orleans. Differences in language,
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1 OCTOBER 1804 religion, cultural traditions, and legal systems made political incorporation imprudent before a more gradual harmonization was allowed to take place. An opponent of slavery and harsh critic of free blacks, the author stressed that political union should wait for the question of slavery to
be resolved (MS in DLC: TJ Papers, 236:42240-1; at head of text: “Remarques d’un Louisianais sur les représentations de quelques particuliers du territoire d’orléans au Congrés des Etats unis, en 1804”; see also Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:524-6).
From Philip B. Bradley Sir, Ridgefield in Connecticut 1st. October 1804 The Directors of the Company incorporated by the State of Ohio by the name of “The Proprietors of the half Million Acres of Land lying South of Lake Erie, called Sufferers’ land” by their vote have requested me to make application of the President, reqesting that a Commissioner be appointed to hold a Treaty with the Indians for the purpose of enabling the Directors to extinguish the Indian title to said lands— From the information which the Directors have been able to obtain relative to the Indian title, they have reason to believe, that it may now be obtained. Such is the situation of the proprietors, that it has become extremely interesting to them, that the same should now be effected. It will be unnecessary for me to detail the considerations which now influence them to this measure, relying with confidence that the goodness of the President, and his knowledge of the unfortunate circumstances which led to the original grant of these lands, will be a sufficient inducement with him, to take all proper measures to make the property valuable to the sufferers. Therefore permit me in their behalf, to request the President that a Commissioner may be appointed for this purpose. If this measure should meet the approbation of the President, we hope to be able to effect the Treaty early in the coming spring I am, Sir, Your most obedient & humble Servant, (Signed) Philip B. Bradley, Chairman of sd. Directors. Tr (DNA: RG 46, EPIR, 9th Cong., 1st sess.); at head of text: “To the President of the United States” and “Copy.” Recorded in SJL as received 27 Oct. with notation “W.” sufferers’ land: in 1792, the state of Connecticut set aside 500,000 acres of land on the western boundary of the West-
ern Reserve to compensate residents of nine towns burned by the British during the American Revolution. In April 1803, the Ohio legislature incorporated the proprietors of the “sufferers’ land,” or “Firelands,” to enable them to purchase and extinguish title once it had been obtained by the United States. Native American title was ceded by the treaty of Fort In-
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1 OCTOBER 1804 dustry, signed 4 July 1805 (Salmon P. Chase, ed., The Statutes of Ohio and of the Northwestern Territory, Adopted or Enacted from 1788 to 1833 Inclusive, 3 vols. [Cincinnati, 1833-35], 1:372-4; David
Curtis Skaggs and Larry L. Nelson, eds., The Sixty Years’ War for the Great Lakes, 1754-1814 [East Lansing, Mich., 2001], 304-5; asp, Indian Affairs, 1:695-6; Dearborn to TJ, 29 July 1805).
From David Campbell Dear Sir, Campbella. State of Tennessee Octr. 1st. 1804 I feel great delicacy in troubling you about things, which at first view, would appear only of private concern: but as the componant parts of mountains are particles, so national evils often originate from the imprudent acts of individuals. I shall lay before you, and explain concisely the evil I alude to, and the remedy. Two acts, or rather transactions of Major William M’Rea’s who commands at So. Wt. Point appear to me, both impolitic and unjust. When Doctor Thomas J. Vandyke was appointed Surgeons mate at the Garrison above named, it was understood by him and his friends, that he would be permitted to continue his private practice in the vicinity of the Garrison, using his own medicine, and in no instance neglecting his public duty. The local situation of the place, bordering immediately on the Indian Country, so as not to admit a country practitioner to settle in the vicinity of the Garrison the great confidence the people have in the Doctor’s medical skill, his activity of body and mind, would enable him to do justice to the public, and also render essential service to those sick citizens in the neighbourhood of the place. Mr. Anderson Senator to Congress from this State informs, that he understood from the Secretary of War, that Doctor Vandyke would be permitted those priviledges; priviledges which could injure no one, and be peculiarly benificial and grateful to the Citizens. This reasonable permission, could in my opinion, with propriety, have been continued by the Major; but unfortunately, he does not possess an accommodating disposition, nor a liberal and enlightened understanding, talents necessary for an officer who commands a detached post. The second act of Major M’Reas respects Captain John Campbell, an amiable young Officer, who together with all his friends have been greatly wounded in their feelings, by the unjust and ill-supported charges exhibited against him by the Major. The Specifications, I believe, have been forwarded to the War Department. To me they appeared generally very ludicrous, weakly supported; the Witnesses against the Captain being either not creditible or greatly prejudiced. 453
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I have no hesitation to say the Major circulated unfavourable reports and encouraged the calumny. Was this wise? Was this just? Instead of being a father to his young Officers, who is immediately under his command, he acts as an imperious dictator. What death can be worse than the assatination of character? Where shall the Captain seek for redress for the wrongs done him, for his wounded sensibilities? If from his own arm, he violates the laws of his Country; if he tamely submits, he violates the feelings of a man of honour. A sacred law, particularly in the Army. A law but too much resorted to in America. Is it necessary to say more to call your attention to the matters I have stated? I know it is not: but I will add that Captain Campbells father is a man of high respectibility, Colonel of a County in which he has great influence from his prudent conduct; a patron of virtue, he in a high degree feels the insult offered to his son. Indeed if the evil, or the injury had attached itself to one person only, I should have been silent, I could not have reconciled it to myself to have troubled the first Majistrate of a great nation about the injuries done to an individual: but the consequences of such imprudent acts affect society, and some times involves families in dreadful distress. I have now stated the evils, it remains to point out the remedy. Let Major M’Rea be transfered to some other post, where he will have a superior Officer, he really has not prudence & skill to command. Public good has been my object in this communication, if you wish it, you can have farther information from Mr. Rhea & the other Members of Congress from this State. I am, Dear Sir, with high Consideration, and pure friendship Yours David Campbell RC (DLC); addressed: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson President of the United States of America”; endorsed by TJ as received 5 Nov. and so recorded in SJL with notation “W”; also endorsed by TJ: “refd. to Secy. at War. Th:J.” forwarded to the war depart ment: it is unknown what charges Wil-
liam MacRea made against John Campbell, but Campbell exhibited his own charges against MacRea in a letter of 2 Aug., received at the War Department on 15 Aug. Likewise, Thomas J. Vandyke issued a complaint of 8 Aug. against MacRea, which reached the War Department on the 22d (DNA: RG 107, RLRMS; Dearborn to TJ, 7 Nov.).
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From Giovanni Fabbroni Veneratissimo Presidente Firenze 1. 8bre 1804 Mi serva di pretesto richiamare alla vostra memoria il nome oscuro di un Uomo che vi venera, e ammira, La presentazione del Tributo ch’io vi offro nel quì annesso Libro. Troverete in questo mio patriottico lavoro che sono occorsi, sventuratamente, non pochi errori Tipografici; ma vi troverete anco non poche notizie statistiche della mia Patria, dalle quali chi tanto degnamente presiede alla più interessante tralle Nazioni può forse raccogliere qualche diletto. Supplico La Vostra Somma Benignità a conservarmi il prezioso titolo sotto il quale vi degnaste accogliermi altre volte, essendomi a cuore L’onore di soscrivermi Veneratmo Presidente Umilissmo: Devotissmo: Obbligatm: Servitore Giovanni Fabbroni e d i t o r s’
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Most Revered President, Florence, 1 Oct. 1804 In presenting as a tribute the enclosed book, I take the opportunity to recall to your memory the obscure name of a man who venerates and admires you. Unfortunately, as you will see, several typographical errors have occurred in the making of this work of my patriotism. In it you will also find, however, much statistical information regarding my homeland, from which the person who so worthily presides over the most interesting among nations may derive some pleasure. I entreat your highest goodwill to preserve for me the precious title under which you deigned to welcome me in the past. I hold dear the honor of signing myself, most revered president, as your most humble, devout, and obliged servant, Giovanni Fabbroni RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 23 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. richiamare alla vostra memoria: Fabbroni, the Florentine scholar and friend of Philip Mazzei, last corresponded with TJ in 1789. He sent his recent work on political economy, Dei provvedimenti
annonarj, published in Florence in 1804, which advocated a free rather than a regulated market for grain in Tuscany. He sent another copy of the work in 1805 (Sowerby, No. 3558; Vol. 1:519n; Vol. 14:701; Fabbroni to TJ, 15 Mch. 1805; TJ to Fabbroni, 30 Apr. 1806).
From Albert Gallatin Sir Treasury Department 1st Octer. 1804 I have the honour to enclose two letters recommending Jonathan Delano as keeper of the light house on Seguin island, in the place of Polerizky resigned—also a letter from Sam. Tredwell stating that 455
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James Taylor surveyor of Beacon Island will undertake to keep the light at Shell castle island, which Mr Wallace the former keeper and who is the owner and sole inhabitant of Shell castle had with great impropriety suffered to remain extinguished for some time. The propriety of both appointments, as there are no other applications, is respectfully submitted. I have the honour to be with the highest respect Sir Your most obedient Servant Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 1 Oct. and “Lt. H. Seguin isld.” and “do. Shell castle isld.” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures: (1) Possibly Mark L. Hill to Benjamin Lincoln, Georgetown, Maine, 12 Apr. 1803; he has learned that John Polereczky is planning to retire as keeper of the Seguin Island lighthouse and recommends Jonathan Delano, a pilot residing on Stage Island, as his successor (DNA: RG 59, LAR). (2) Dudley B. Hobart to William Miller, Bath, Maine, 7 Sep., reporting several complaints against Polereczky as keeper of the lighthouse and recommending Delano as an honest man and someone who would
be more attentive to the keeper’s duties (same; endorsed by TJ: “Delano Jonathan to be keepr. Lt. H. Seguin isld”; endorsed by Gallatin). (3) Samuel Tredwell to Gallatin, Edenton, North Carolina, 29 Aug., reporting that John Wallace has ceased lighting the beacon on Shell Castle Island and has left it in a state of disrepair; James Taylor has put the light back in operation and has been authorized to commence repairs on the beacon; Tredwell suggests Taylor would assume the duties of keeper at Shell Castle Island permanently for an annual salary of $300, or perhaps even $250 (same; endorsed by TJ: “Taylor James to be Lt. House keeper Shellcastle isld.”).
From William Jones Sir Philada. 1st. Octr. 1804 In compliance with your request I have investigated every probable source of information relative to the affairs of the late Viscount Noailles and the result is that he left this place very much embarrassed and largely indebted to many persons whose claims remain unsatisfied. This was communicated to me by a Mr Carpentier a french gentleman residing here who was one of the particular intimates of the Viscount, and corroborated by the Brokers and by Mr J Ingersoll one of the Executors named in his Will who as well as the other Executor Mr Le Grange declined acting or proving the Will, as they knew of no property belonging to the Viscount The Will was proved at the special request of a young gentleman said to be related to the Viscount. I have examined the record; it briefly bequeaths his estate in general terms to his children but does not specify any property—It refers also to papers left in his Bureau the purport of which is unknown to Mr Ingersoll—The other Execu 456
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tor Mr Legrange is gone to france There is a Mr Cotteneau who is said to have been more immediately conversant with the pecuniary affairs of the Viscount, but I have not yet had an opportunity of seeing him. Should his information be more favorable I will communicate it without delay My services are at all times perfectly at your disposal and I beg of you to command them freely. I am Sir with the highest respect and regard Yours faithfully WJ FC (PHi); in Jones’s hand; at foot of text: “Mr Jefferson.” Recorded in SJL as received 4 Oct. Enclosed in TJ to Madame de Tessé, 10 Mch. 1805.
your request: TJ to William Jones, 10 Sep.
From William Kilty October 1t 1804
Mr John Randall of the City of Annapolis, has Stated to me that He is a Candidate for the office of Commissioner of Loans in Maryland, and Wishes me to express my opinion of his Qualifications for that office I have already written in behalf of Mr John Brewer and Would Wish (without Counting too much on my influence) to avoid the Seeming impropriety of recommending two different Persons In Justice however to Mr Randall I have no Hesitation in Saying that I have Known him as a Staff officer in the Army and ever Since the War, and for Some years lived in the Same Town with him, and that his Character Stands high for Probity, integrity, and general good Conduct He has been a Notary Public in Annapolis and a Justice of the Peace, and has since been a Collector in that Port and I have no doubt of his Capacity and ability to discharge the duties of the office which He now Sollicits W Kilty RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 2 Oct. and “Randall John to be Commr. loans Maryld.” and so recorded in SJL, where it is connected by a brace with Kilty’s letter of 2 Oct.
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From John Randall Sir, Washington October 1st. 1804 The office of Commissioner of Loans for the State of Maryland having become vacant by the resignation of Mr Harwood I respectfully make application to be appointed to fill the Vacancy. Few of my fellow Citizens of Annapolis have the Honor of being personally Known to the Executive, and time would not admit of my applying to any of the Maryland Representatives in Congress to the Secretary of the Navy, or to General Smith, to whom I am Known; I came hither therefore without letters of recommendation, in the Hope that I am sufficiently Known by Gentlemen in the City to obtain such testimonials as will induce the Executive to think me worthy of the confidence which I solicit—yet as I am unknown to your Excellency I think it proper to State That I removed to Annapolis in the year 1771 from Westmoreland County in Virginia where I was born in the year 1752. I received an appointment from the State of Maryland in the Staff Department of the Army in the year 1778 and served untill the end of the Revolutionary War, I then engaged in Mercantile pursuits and in the year 1794 was appointed Collector for the Port of Annapolis the Emoluments of which is trifling indeed and having a Wife and ten Children, the office I now solicit will be the more acceptable on their account With regard to my qualifications for business, and my Character Moral and political no person is better acquainted than the Comptroller of the Treasury Mr Duvall who has Known me intimately more than 20 years last past, and altho that Gentleman’s Interest has been solicited by other applicants previous to my apprizing him of my wishes I flatter myself he will mention me in favorable terms to the Secretary of the Treasury, and perhaps to your Excellency likewise, if a communication of his Knowledge of me should be desired. I have the honor to be with great respect Sir Your most Obedient servant John Randall RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 1 Oct. and “to be Commr. loans Maryld.” and so recorded in SJL. John Randall (1752-1826) arrived in Annapolis as the former ward and chief assistant of architect William Buckland, under whom he helped build some of the area’s most distinguished homes. After Buckland’s death and a term of service in the military, Randall married and estab-
lished his mercantile business. He was mayor of Annapolis for three terms and remained the port collector until his death. He was the father of a large family that produced a member of Congress, two high-ranking military officers, a federal judge, and a governor of Liberia (Rosamond Randall Beirne and John Henry Scarff, William Buckland, 1734-1774: Architect of Virginia and Maryland [Baltimore, 1958], 44, 85, 113; Elihu S. Riley,
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2 OCTOBER 1804 “The Ancient City”: A History of Annapolis, in Maryland [Annapolis, 1887], 13; Washington United States’ Telegraph, 16 June 1826; National Intelligencer, 1 Dec. 1852). In an almost identical letter, Randall wrote to Gallatin on this same day to ex-
press his desire for the commission vacated by Benjamin harwood, adding only that the trifling amount he received as collector was “not worth three Hundred Dollars per Annum” (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “to be Commr. loans for Maryld.”).
From Isaac Briggs Colonel Hawkins’s Establishment, About 2 miles south of Tallapoosa River, and about 5 miles S.W. of the Southeastermost bend of the River, 2nd. of the 10th. Mo. 1804.
My dear Friend, No doubt it is matter of surprise that we proceed so slowly. Indeed when I undertook this journey and the astronomical survey, I had no adequate anticipation of the difficulties, fatigues and even dangers through which we have so far struggled. They principally arise from the inauspicious season of the year in which we have made the attempt. Had I been gifted with foreknowledge, I think it would have put to the proof all my patriotism, to have undertaken so arduous a task. Health, however, has been mercifully afforded to us, and I am induced to think we can encounter difficulties with tolerable courage. We are disposed, with true french vivacity, to cry vive la Republique and press forward. I find, in making astronomical observations, on a journey, an assistant indispensably necessary; without one, of some intelligence, the requisite degree of accuracy would be impracticable—I am therefore glad that I brought Thomas Robertson with me—his faithfulness, I hope, will be remembered and rewarded. On the 2nd. Ultimo I wrote to thee from Clarksborough in Georgia— from whence we proceeded to General Meriwether’s, for information, whose kindness merits our warmest acknowledgments, in furnishing us with much useful information, a pack-horse and provisions for our journey as far as Colonel Hawkins’s on Flint River. These preparations necessarily delayed us four days. On the 6th., we departed from General Meriwether’s; and, after wandering many miles astray in the wilderness, we arrived on the 8th. at the store of an Indian trader about 31 miles from General Meriwether’s. Here we were delayed two days by severe stormy weather. Sometimes the ear could scarcely distinguish an interval between the sound of one falling tree and that 459
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of another. Having made many fruitless efforts to procure a guide to Colonel Hawkins’s, on the 10th. we proceeded without one. From thence to Colonel Hawkins’s (a distance of about 60 miles) we travelled, or rather wandered, at least 112 miles; frequently climbing over precipices, wading through swamps, and crossing deep and difficult water-courses, many miles without a path, our horses greatly incommoded and fatigued by sensitive briers and other vines. Our provisions were soon wet and spoiled and we were in danger of starving, not having seen a human face, except each others, for more than four days. On the 15th. we arrived at Colonel Hawkins’s on Flint River. From Colonel Hawkins we received the most polite and friendly treatment, and every assistance in his power. He informed us that had we made the attempt sooner in the season, it would have been impossible for us to have passed through, for the scarcity of provisions has been such, that the nation has been almost in a state of famine—and that the large horse-flies would have destroyed our horses, having actually killed many. The Colonel having furnished us with a pack-horse, provisions and a guide, on the 20th. we proceeded, and on the 27th. we arrived here (120 miles) after a journey the most laborious both to our horses and ourselves, there having fallen a very heavy rain after we left Flint River, we found the rivers, creeks and low grounds so full of water, so rapid, and so entangled with vines, as to threaten almost a certainty of drowning our horses, if not ourselves, should we attempt to cross, before the waters had subsided so that we could see by the bushes, the course of the path. Our horses swam the Chatahoochee River, from shore to shore, and six creeks between that and this place. In short we arrived here much fatigued. I had an idea that I could pass through this country without a path or a guide, but when I mentioned it on the frontiers of Georgia it was scouted and laughed at, and I am now firmly of opinion that in this way it would be at least a four months passage from Georgia to New Orleans. I have, at this place, seen two of the principal chiefs of the Nation Oche Hajo and Efau Hajo, they appear to be very friendly and well disposed towards the United States. They have taken me by the hand and offered me full protection and every accommodation in their power. To Oche Hajo, whom I believe to be a man of intelligence and integrity, I mentioned the subject of the road through their nation, and he expressed a full concurrence with me in the opinion that the facility of intercourse which such a road would occasion would be highly beneficial to the red people as well as to the white. 460
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I have made some very satisfactory astronomical observations at this place and at Flint River. For the longitude of this place I have a mean of eight sets, and for that of Flint River of four sets, of lunar observations carefully made, in favorable circumstances; for that of Franklin C.H. a mean of three sets, snatched in the intervals between flying clouds, but pretty good. The latitudes of all those places, and many others, well ascertained. Finding from unexpected, and insurmountable, delays, that my report will be unavoidably much later in coming to thy hands than I contemplated I am anxious to employ every moment of my time, when I am not on horse-back, taking refreshment, or with the instrument in my hands, in calculating the observations, that I may have the less to do after I shall have arrived at New Orleans;1 this, and the want of paper more than is necessary for this letter, prevent me writing to my wife, who will probably hear reports of people being robbed and murdered in the wilderness, and suffer much anxiety and solicitude about me; I think I may so far presume upon thy humanity, as to entreat thee to write to her such information concerning me as may dissipate her fears—I shall feel deeply thankful for the favor. Her name is Hannah—she resides at Brookeville, where a Post office is kept. Accept assurances of my continued and affectionate esteem. Isaac Briggs. P.S. 3rd. in the morning. We are just about to mount our horses, and expect to be at Fort Stoddert in 6 or 7 days. I.B FC (MdHi); in Thomas Robertson’s hand, signature and postscript in Briggs’s hand; at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President U.S. Washington.” FC (same); in Robertson’s hand. Tr (DNA: RG 233, PM, 8th Cong., 2d. sess.); in Isaac A. Coles’s hand except Briggs’s signature and “The President of the U.S.” at foot of text, which are in TJ’s hand; lacks a portion of the final paragraph (see note 1); enclosed in TJ to the Senate and the House of Representatives, 1 Feb. 1805. Recorded in SJL as received 4 Dec. oche hajo and efau hajo: the son of a Scotsman and a friend of Benjamin Hawkins, Alexander Cornells, also known as Oche Haujo, was the Creek headman at Tuckabatchee. A devotee of Creek acculturation, he operated a large farm, owned slaves, and allowed Hawkins to establish a blacksmith shop near his prop-
erty. In 1805, Cornells was among the Creek delegation to Washington that signed a treaty ceding land and permitting the United States to establish a route through Creek territory to Mobile. His father-in-law, Efau Haujo, or Mad Dog, was the principal Upper Creek chief at the Fort Wilkinson negotiations in 1802 (Robbie Ethridge, Creek Country: The Creek Indians and Their World [Chapel Hill, 2003], 16, 79; Henry deLeon Southerland, Jr., and Jerry Elijah Brown, The Federal Road Through Georgia, the Creek Nation, and Alabama, 1806-1836 [Tuscaloosa, Ala., 1989], 15, 20; Claudio Saunt, A New Order of Things: Property, Power, and the Transformation of the Creek Indians, 1733-1816 [Cambridge, Eng., 1999], 1, 99, 146, 155; asp, Indian Affairs, 1:668-81, 698-9; Vol. 32:50, 51n). 1 Paragraph
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ends here in Tr.
From Pierre Samuel Du Pont de Nemours Paris 10 Vendemiaire 13.
Monsieur le Président, 2. 8bre. 1804. Je ne dois ajouter que peu de chose à la Lettre que je vous écrivais il y a trois mois, et dont je joins ici le duplicata. Les raisons qui me rappellent auprès de vous deviennent chaque jour plus puissantes. L’Europe ne convient plus du tout à la Philosophie. Pour un tems plus ou moins long, mais qui vraisemblablement durera plus que je ne puis faire, elle est en proie aux Princes, aux Prêtres, aux Généraux, aux Jésuites, au Luxe insensé, aux mœurs corrompues, à la friponnerie déhontée, aux contributions vexatoires, iniques, ruineuses, à toutes les erreurs possibles en politique, en commerce, en finance, en administration. Si vous n’êtiez pas un homme de bien à qui les malheurs de l’humanité, quelque part qu’ils aient lieu, ne peuvent devenir étrangers, cela vous affligerait peu, vous principal Régulateur du nouveau monde qui recueille les Citoyens et les richesses que nous bannissons.—Mais moi, Européen, Français, qui n’ai des autres sciences qu’une teinture générale, qui ne m’étais fortement appliqué qu’à celle du Gouvernement, qui pendant trente années l’avais cultivée, appliquée avec assez de succès pour que mon travail et celui de nos amis eussent augmenté la Population de mon Pays de quatre millions d’âmes, plus heureuses de beaucoup qu’on ne l’êtait il y a un demi siecle, je dois avoir et j’ai le coeur percé. Je ne saurai jamais bien la Langue anglaise; on sait encore moins ici la mienne. Et si je confère mal sur vos oeuvres, cela ne m’empêchera pas de les voir avec consolation. Salut et respectueux attachement. du Pont (de Nemours) Il m’est doux de penser qu’à ce moment même, on vous réélit Président. Cela est plus flatteur qu’une succession héréditaire. e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Mister President, Paris, 10 Vendémiaire Year 13, 2 Oct. 1804 There are only a few additions to the letter I wrote you three months ago, of which a duplicate is enclosed. The reasons that bring me back to you become more urgent every day. Europe is not at all suitable to the values of reason.
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2 OCTOBER 1804 In the short or long term, but which is not likely to be longer than my lifetime, Europe will continue to be prey to princes, priests, generals, Jesuits, unrestrained luxury, corrupt morals, shameless deceit, abhorrent, iniquitous, ruinous taxes, and all possible wrongdoing in politics, commerce, finance, and government. This would not afflict you if you were not a virtuous man for whom none of humanity’s misfortunes can be alien, no matter where they occur. You are the principal leader of the new world which welcomes the citizens and resources we banish. I, as a European and a Frenchman, with only a veneer of learning in other fields, have applied myself entirely to political science, cultivating that for thirty years with enough success that my work and that of our friends has increased my country’s population by four million souls. They are much happier than those who lived half a century ago, but I am necessarily heartbroken. I will never speak English well enough, but people here know even less French. Although I am an imperfect reader of your works, I nevertheless find consolation in them. Greetings and respectful attachment. du Pont (de Nemours) I take heart in knowing that at this very moment you are being reelected President. That is more flattering than a hereditary succession. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ; recorded in SJL as received 12 Mch. 1805. Enclosure: Dupl of Du Pont to TJ, 1 July.
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir [2 Oct. 1804] I enclose a list of names, being all those I can think of, leaving New York, Virginia & S. Carolina out of question, which may be thought of for the Spanish embassy. I have put several rather to give names to every state than for any good reason. Taking every thing into consideration, Bowdoin & Pinkney appear to me the most fitted on the list. First rate talents I am afraid cannot be commanded, and good sense & respectability may be sufficient on every ordinary occasion: the assistance of Mr Munroe is already engaged for the Louisiana business; and on future important occasions that of our minister at Paris may always be obtained. With respectful attachment Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin The date of Mr Harwood’s resignation as Commnr. of loans is wanted at the Treasury and may, I presume, be found in his letter to you— RC (DLC; TJ Papers, 146:25380); undated; addressed: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 2 Oct. and “M.P. to Spain” and so recorded in SJL.
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e n c l o s u r e
List of Candidates for Minister to Spain Names to be enquired into for Minister to Spain N. Hampshire — Sherburne Dist. Atty. or judge Massachussets — Bowdoin Eustis Rhode Island — Russel Connecticut — Kirby Pennsylvania — Jones Captn. Delaware — Hall Govr. Read Dist. Atty. Rodney N. Jersey — Bloomfield Maryland — S. Smith Joseph Nicholson Pinkney N. Carolina — David Stone Steele Georgia — A. Baldwin Tenessee — Smith formerly Senator MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25381); undated; in Gallatin’s hand, with an “x” in an unidentified hand inserted next to Russell, Jones, and Rodney.
From Chauncy Hall Wallingford in New Haven in Connecticut
Sir October 2d AD1804 Haveing wrot to You on the following Subject and not receiveing an Answer I hope that my Integrity may Plead an Excuse for troubling You with this in the first Letter I enclosed a Plan on which I beleive a Perpetual Motion may be made which will be regular and the source Sufficient to Carry a time Piece and on that I believe the Calculation of Longitude may be made as Easy and Accurate as that of Lattitude It appears to me to be Certain that there is but two Powers Active and that all Motion is made by them and that they are Equil and may be Brought to act in one direction round a Circle as may appear by the Plan in the first Letter The Experiment will Decide the Qestion but I am not a Mechanik and not being Personally acquainted with any one that Can do the Work therefore I am not able to Decide the Experriment without Some Assistance If my first Letter has bin Receiv’d by You I wish if 464
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it [. . .] Your Pleasure that You would write the [. . .]ctions whitch may be Made against it and if the Letter has not bin Rec’d and it is Your Mind to inform me of it I will Draw another and Send to you though I am not able to Communicate my Ideas with my Pen Yet I wish to have the Satisfaction of its being tryed for I Cannot find any thing that will Prevent it from answering the Design So I Remain Your Humble Servant Chauncy Hall of Merriden RC (MHi); torn; at head of text: “Mr. Jefferson”; addressed: “To Thomas Jefferson President of the United States” and “With Care and Speed”; franked; postmarked Berlin, 3 Oct.; endorsed by
TJ as received 7 Oct. and “perpetual motion” and so recorded in SJL. wrot to you: 24 May 1803.
From William Kilty Sir Washn October 2d 1804 I have to Pray your excuse for Troubling You again respecting the office of Commissioner of Loans in Maryland, but I have been requested to forward the enclosed letter on the Subject, which I understand is on behalf of Mr Edward Hall The Gentleman who Sent it to me was probably not apprised of my having recommended Mr Brewer for the office, However, I see no impropriety in Complying with his request so far as to forward his letter, and also to State my Knowledge of Mr Hall from which I have no doubt of his being Qualified for the office—He is at present a Member of the Council of Maryland, and has been for some years in that Station, and, (before his appointment to it) was a Member and Speaker of the House of delegates I am Sir With Great Respect Your Obt Servt Wm Kilty RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Th: Jefferson Esqr”; endorsed by TJ as received 2 Oct. and “Hall Edward to be Commr. loans” and so recorded in SJL, where it is connected by a brace with Kilty’s letter of 1 Oct. Enclosure: probably
Allen Bowie Duckett to TJ, printed at 30 Sep. recommended mr brewer: William Kilty to TJ, 29 Sep.
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From James Madison Dear Sir Oct. 2. 1804 I return to the Dept. of State the enclosed papers (excepting the private letter from Mr. L) thro’ your hands that you may peruse such of them as may deserve that attention. According to my recollection, the explanation of the Act of Congs. so offensive to Spain, was communicated to Yrujo. As it is possible that I may be mistaken, it may be worth while to enquire into the fact; and if the communication should have been transmitted to Pinkney only, and consequently not known to the Spanish Govt. or even to its Minister here, a communication of this document to the latter may perhaps be satisfactory on that point and render any thing more on it unnecessary. Mr. Wagner can give any information you may please to call for. Jackson I find has lost no time in giving publicity to the affair between him & Yrujo. What course the latter will take remains to be seen. Should circumstances of any kind be thought to urge a close of the business with him or any other arrangement with respect to it, why might not one of the other Secretaries, or even Mr. Wagner, be made a channel of your sentiments and determinations? I find it will be impossible for me to be in Washington before Saturday night, and that only with all the incidents to a journey favorable. Should the door be shut agst. further communication with Yrujo, and Pinkney’s situation at Madrid not be contradicted, a direct communication with Cevallos appears to be the next resource. With respectful attachment Yrs. James Madison RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department at Orange on 7 Oct. and “Yrujo. & Span. affairs” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Robert R. Livingston to Madison, Paris, 20 June, written almost entirely in cipher; at head of text: “Private & confidential to be decyphered only by the Secretary of State himself”; Livingston reiterates his belief that the United States should take possession of West Florida, that France would force Spain to acquiesce to the act, and that nothing would be gained by further negotiations on the subject (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:343-4). Other enclosures not identified. explanation of the act: writing to Carlos Martínez de Irujo on 19 Mch., Madison explained that section 11 of the
24 Feb. act of Congress was not intended to establish a collection district on the waters of Mobile Bay beyond the acknowledged limits of the United States, that is, south of the boundary established by the Pinckney Treaty of 1795. Nevertheless, Madison repeated the administration’s claim that the eastern boundary of Louisiana, as acquired by the United States, extended to the Perdido River (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 6:604-5). William jackson published his recent correspondence with TJ, including his sworn statement regarding his recent conversation with Irujo, in the 20 Sep. edition of the Political and Commercial Register (see Jackson to TJ, 7 Sep.; TJ to Jackson, 15 Sep.). Irujo responded with a lengthy letter to Madison dated 3 Oct., in which he defended himself against Jackson’s allegations. Before it reached Madi-
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2 OCTOBER 1804 son, however, Irujo had the letter published in the 5 Oct. edition of the National Intelligencer, which dated it 2 Oct. Irujo did not forward the letter to Madison until 7 Oct., stating that a “sudden fit of illness” and Madison’s absence prevented
him from sending it sooner. According to Irujo, he had “communicated” the letter to the president “previous to its publication” (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:114-19, 134).
Memorandum from Thomas Munroe Unexpended Balance of Appropriation 1803 commonly, since the Appropriation of 1804, called the fund Applicable to High ways Unexpended Balance of the Appropriation 1804
⎬
Ds.
⎫ ⎪
⎪
$2,387.77 ⎭
7006.83 9,394.60
estimated value of foundation stone taken from the footway on north side of Pennsylvania Avenue and used in the Capitol, about $1200.
Memdm. of monies which from the best information the Superintendant has been able to obtain must be paid during the fall to carry on the Capitol, and necessary work at the Presidents House till Jany or February next— Representatives chamber—about 300 George Blagdin, in part Stone Cutting & setting—about $2,000 Peter Lenox, Balance for work in 1803 300 Wm. L Gantt o/a of his claim for bricks 200 Hugh Boyd, bricklayers work on Drain at P Ho 100 Wm hewitt, Contractor for foundation stone, in part, 300 Robt & Wm Steuart Contractors for freestone (in part of about $2500 or 3000$ which will be due to them 1000 Cooke & Brent—Do. part of between 4 & 5 thousand 1000 Carpenters & Plaisterers work Prests. House (say) 300 Masons & Labourers at the Capitol 2 months from the 1 Octo.—say 2000 J. M. Robertson for 12 particular bill stones 300 Contingencies—say 500 Saml. Mifflin (phila) materials for roof of P. Ho. which probably he can wait for 500 $8,800 2d. Octo 1804. Thomas Munroe Supt. MS (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 3 Oct. and “funds & destination.”
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From Pierce Butler Dear Sir Philada. October 3—1804 I am solicited by Mrs. Mead, a realy amiable, good Lady, to bring to Your view, the only Son She has left, Mr Richard Meade, whose character is unexceptionably good—I will in as few words as possible state to You his Situation—By prudence and industry he acquired a considerable property in the West Indies, with which he returnd to his own Country to alleviate the sufferings of his Parents—Under the faith and assurance of the Governmt. of Buenos-Ayres he sent the most of his property there—they violated their promise, by detaining it— He went to Spain for redress, but to no effect. He has settled in Cadiz in trade—His Mother solicits You to appoint him Consul. I believe him to be a better Man than the present Consul, who has retired eighteen Miles from Cadiz—I contributed to make Mr Yznardy Consul; and I afterwards regreted having done so, because I do not believe he is a Moral Man—Mr Meade is a Native American—The facts are stated to You, the rest is left with Your better Judgement— I have the honor to be with great Consideration Yr Most Obedient P. Butler RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 6 Oct. and “Meade Richard. to be Consul Cadiz” and so recorded in SJL. richard meade directly solicited the consulship in a letter of 22 Sep. to Madison. He stressed the “necessity of appointing an American Citizen” to the post, particularly given the “arbitrary” nature of the Spanish government. In calling for Joseph Yznardi’s removal, Meade directed
Madison’s attention to Yznardi’s absence from Cadiz and the “general disaprobation of every Citizen” and “general opinion of every Respectable man” regarding Yznardi (DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Meade R.W. to be Consul at Cadiz. his lre to mr Madison”). eighteen miles from cadiz: a reference to Yznardi’s country estate across the Bay of Cadiz in Rota (Yznardi to TJ, 9 Oct. 1804 and 16 July 1806).
From Joseph Cabrera Muy sor. mio, Philadelphia 3. de Octubre de 1804. Si la voz publica no ha informado á V. de las circunstancias del desgraciado accidente que me tiene detenido en prision hace un mes, la adjunta nota que me tomo la libertad de incluir á esta, dará á V. una idea exacta de su por menor. Permitame V.E. ante todo, implorar su indulgencia si lo distraigo de los importantes negocios que tiene á su cuidado, para ocuparlo con uno que no es menos digno de su atencion, pues que realmente tiene 468
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una tendencia á los derechos y prerrogatibas de mi amo el Rey de España. Enviado por él á este Continente en el fin de ínstruirme en sus costumbres y Govierno; nombrado por él en calidad de agregado á la secretaria de la Legacion Española; y constituido asi mismo por él, miembro del Cuerpo Diplomatico, debo estár en posesion del goze del derecho de gentes, y bajo la proteccion de las Leyes de las Naciones. El adjunto certificado del Ministro Plenipotenciario del Rey mi amo, confirma la certeza de estas verdades, y comprueba de una manera nada equiboca, la inmunidad que en razon de de su caracter debe gozar mi persona: pero sin embargo, me hallo abandonado (nó sin escandalo de quantos lo saben) á las Leyes de este Pais, por el mismo que debia protejer mis derechos, y ser el defensor de los privilegios Diplomaticos, que tan injuriosamente se violan en mi persona. Es muy extraordinario por cierto, que el representante del Rey mi amo, que debia protejer mis derechos, se haya por el contrario convertido en una especie de acusador mio: Es tambien muy extraño, que el mismo que en el mes de Mayo ultimo dio un Certificado declarando, que mi persona era y debia estar, bajo la proteccion de la Leyes de las Naciones, haya librado á esta misma persona, tres meses despues, á las de un Pais extrangero, por solo sospechas que tengo en mi mano el poder de hacer desaparecer, con la misma facilidad y prontitud, con que yo mismo las hice concevir. Pero nada de esto es extraordinario, si se atiende a los motibos de particular encono que el Ministro Plenipotenciario del Rey de España tiene contra mi. Personales enemistades, y reyertas sobre materias de mucha importancia, exitan una venganza, que maquinando á la sombra de un Suegro Governador del Estado, y un Cuñado Attorney General del mismo, quizas se consumaria si no existieren en mi poder medios de rechazarla y confundirla. Constituido pues, en la cruel alternatiba, de sufrir una larga prision, ó de consentir en ser juzgado por unas Leyes y Gobierno que no son competentes he ocurrido al Ministro Plenipotenciario del Rey de España para que, aprovechando la proporcion que franquea la oportunidad de hallarse en este Puerto un Bergantin de la Esquadra de S.M.C., me remita á mi Govierno y á mi Rey, para que ambos decidan de mi inocencia, ó me condenen; pero no haviendo sido admitida esta justa demanda, me veo en la necesidad de ocurri a V.E. como Gefe de esta Nacion; como encargado por ella del poder ejecutibo de sus Leyes; como el unico que puede impedir una violencia y en el nombre de mi nacion y de mi Rey, á fin de que respetando en mi el derecho de gentes, y la Leyes de la Naciones, se sirba disponer, que las de este 469
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Pais no tengan intervencion en mi persona, respecto á pertenecer al Cuerpo Diplomatico Español, cuya circumstancia me constituye inviolable en este Govierno. La entrega que el Ministro Plenipotenciario ha hecho de mi persona á estas Leyes es y debe sér de toda nulidad. No gozando yo mi empleo ni el fuero Diplomatico por la autoridad del Ministro Español, si no por la suprema voluntad de mi Soberano, es evidente que solo él puede despojar de unos derechos que miran como sagrados todas las Naciones, y cuya violacion podria atraer á esta justas recombenciones de la mia, si no obstante mis protextas, y sin embargo de las reclamaciones que hice á este Govierno, se consuma la violencia de atropellar mis privilegios, accediendo a una venganza tan mala como injusta. En este caso, es de esperar, que poco satisfecho el Govierno de quien dependo, de la usurpacion de facultades que se apropia el Americano, forme de él una justa y fundada queja. Si el Ministro Español toma sobre si, (en contradiccion á su Certificado de Mayo ultimo), el despojarme de unos privilegios reservados al Soberano; el Govierno de los Estados Unidos debe ser bastante prudente y cauto para no admitir una entrega y abandono que lleba con sigo las nulidades mas visibles; mayormente quando la Corte Americana no tiene ningun interes en juzgarme ó no juzgarme. Repito pues á V.E. mi respetuosa suplica, dirigida a estos dos puntos. 1o. Que se sirba interponer su influjo con el Ministro Español, pidiendole que me haga conducir á España, para que el Soberano disponga a lo que tenga por conbeniente de mi persona. 2o. Que en caso de negarse el dicho Ministro a esta justa pretencion, le declare, que el Govierno Americano respetando el derecho de gentes y las Leyes de las Naciones, no puede tomar sobre sí la intervencion y decision de una causa de un reconocido miembro del Cuerpo Diplomatico; y que en consecuencia, sus Tribunales no se apropiaran una autoridad que no les corresponde. Qualquiera de estos dos pasos confirmará la prudencia y rectitud que tan justamente distinguen á este Govierno, y acreditará la circunspeccion con que se dirije su cabeza, en obsequio de la justicia y de la humanidad oprimida. He principiado esta instancia implorando la indulgencia del Presidente de los Estados Unidos, y no la concluiré sin renobar la suplica, de que se sirba dispensarme toda la de un philosopho, la de un corazon sensible, y la de un alma grande, y generosa, como es la del Presidente Jefferson. Joseph Cabrera Cavalier d’Ambassade
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My Very Dear Sir, Phladelphia, 3 Oct. 1804 If the public voice has not informed you of the circumstances of the wretched accident that has had me detained in prison for a month, the attached note, which I have taken the liberty to include in this one, will give you an exact idea of its details. Your excellency will allow me, before all, to beg your indulgence if I distract you from the important business that you have at your care, to occupy you with a matter that is not less worthy of your attention, since it refers to the rights and prerogatives of my lord, the king of Spain. I was sent by him to this continent with the end of instructing myself in its customs and government. I was named by him attaché of the secretariat of the Spanish legation; and given that I in this way became a member of the diplomatic corps, I should be in possession and enjoyment of natural rights and under the protection of the laws of nations. The enclosed certificate of the minister plenipotentiary of the king, my lord, confirms the certainties of these truths and unequivocally proves the immunity to which my position entitles me. In spite of this, however, I find myself abandoned (not without scandal from those who know about it) to the laws of this country by the same entity that should protect my rights and defend my diplomatic privileges, which are so harmfully violated. It is surely quite extraordinary that the representative of the king, my lord, who should protect my rights, has transformed himself, on the contrary, into my accuser. It is also very strange that he, who last May gave a certificate declaring that I was and should be protected by the laws of nations, should three months later release me to those of a foreign country on account of mere suspicions that I could make disappear with the same ease and promptness with which he conceived them. But none of this is extraordinary if one is attentive to the particular hostility that the minister plenipotentiary of the king of Spain has against me. Personal enmities and fights over matters of great importance stir up a vengeance that he plots in the shadow of a father-in-law who is governor of the state and a brother-in-law who is attorney general; perhaps it would be consummated if I did not have in my power the means to reject and confound it. Given then the cruel alternative of suffering a long prison sentence or consenting to be tried by laws and a government that do not have standing, I asked the minister plenipotentiary of the king of Spain to take advantage of an opportunity for moderation. Using a brigantine in this port that belongs to the fleet of His Catholic Majesty, he could turn me over to my government and my king so that they can decide my innocence or condemn me. But this just demand being denied, I see myself in the need to turn to you as the leader of this nation, in charge of the executive power of its laws, as the only one who can prevent this violation. In the name of my nation and my king and in respect to my natural rights and the laws of nations, I request that you declare that the laws of this country do not apply to my person, given that I am part of the Spanish diplomatic corps and this circumstance makes me inviolable to this government. The handing over of my person to these laws by the minister plenipotentiary is and should be invalid. Having my employment and diplomatic privilege not by the authority of the Spanish minister but
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3 OCTOBER 1804 by the supreme will of my sovereign, it is evident that only he can dispossess me of rights that are sacred in all nations and that the violation of these rights could induce justified demands from my nation. Notwithstanding my protests, however, or the complaints that I have made to this government, the violence of trampling over my privileges is carried out, acceding to an evil and unjust vengeance. In this case, it is to be expected that my government will not be satisfied with the usurpation of the authority that the American government appropriates, and will issue a fair complaint. If the Spanish minister takes it upon himself (in contradiction to his certificate of last May) to disposess me of my privileges, an act that is reserved for the sovereign, the government of the United States should be prudent and cautious so as not to accept the turning me over and abandonment that brings with it the most visible nullities, especially when the American court has no standing to judge me or not to judge me. I repeat to your excellency, then, my respectful request directed toward these two points. First, that you intervene against the Spanish minister, asking him to have me brought to Spain so that the sovereign may determine what he believes to be appropriate for me. Second, that in case the said minister rejects this just request, you declare to him that the American government, respecting natural rights and the laws of nations, cannot intervene and decide the case of a known member of the diplomatic corps, and that in consequence its courts will not appropriate an authority that does not belong to them. Either of these steps will confirm the prudence and rectitude that so justly distinguish this government and the care with which its head directs it, with deference to justice and the oppressed of humankind. I began this application begging for the indulgence of the president of the United States, and will not conclude it without restating my plea, in which I hope he will grant me all the leniency of a philosopher, of as feeling a heart and as great and generous a soul as that of President Jefferson. Joseph Cabrera Cavalier d’Ambassade RC (DNA: RG 59, NL). Recorded in SJL as received 4 Oct. with notation “S.” Enclosure: Cabrera’s explanation, dated 2 Oct., of the circumstances leading to his arrest; on the morning of 23 Aug. a Frenchman named Bergerac presented himself and informed Cabrera that he was in possession of a $300 check signed by Carlos Martínez de Irujo; the check was not addressed to Bergerac (“qu’il n’etoit pas le vrai Maitre de ce check”) but he had obtained it under the condition that he would place it in the hands of an honest person; knowing of Cabrera’s character, Bergerac asked him to advance 100 gourdes (dollars) in exchange for the check; Cabrera explains that he initially refused but subsequently accepted after Bergerac said he would remit him the check and return with the check’s real
owner (“le vrai propriétaire”); the stewardess of Cabrera’s house was present when the check was presented and observed him leave it on the table when he accompanied Bergerac to the door; Cabrera then sent his servant Alfonse L’Allemand to Governor McKean’s house in search of Irujo; informed that Irujo was not at the governor’s house, Cabrera sent his black servant and interpreter Charley Lange to present the check at the bank; after Lange was arrested, Cabrera explained to Irujo that he had given Lange the check and that his servant was innocent; Irujo then allegedly observed to Cabrera that he could have denied any involvement, as no one witnessed his giving the check to Lange; Cabrera next relates his arrest on 27 Aug. by order of the governor and his claim of diplomatic immunity; his protests
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3 OCTOBER 1804 have been in vain, however, and he remains in prison; Cabrera has since learned that Bergerac has been arrested in Wilmington, Delaware, and imprisoned in New Castle (MS in same; in French). Other enclosure not found. Joseph Cabrera (b. 1771 as José de Cabrera y Ramírez), a native of VélezMálaga, served in the Spanish military for about 10 years. He married María Rosa de Gálvez, who became an accomplished poet and playwright. Financial difficulties, possibly resulting from Cabrera’s gambling, appear to have caused a rift in the marriage, and by the time the couple moved from Cadiz to Madrid, they were estranged. Cabrera solicited and received a royal appointment as an attaché with an honorary rank of captain to the Spanish legation to the United States, where he took up his post early in 1804. Initially enjoying warm relations with Irujo, Cabrera soon alienated the minister, with tensions culminating in Cabrera’s arrest for forging Irujo’s checks. At Irujo’s behest, Thomas McKean had the Philadelphia sheriff jail Cabrera in a debtor’s apartment until the Spanish government decided if he should be tried in an American court or in Spain. Cabrera lost a habeas corpus motion in the federal district court in April 1805, and in July he was tried in the Mayor’s Court of Philadelphia for forging three checks worth a combined $1,900. Found guilty, he was sentenced to two years in prison at hard labor and fined $2,000. McKean rescinded the labor portion of the sentence and, after Cabrera made restitution, issued a full pardon in November 1805. Cabrera returned to Spain, where he showed up
in records dating from as late as 1816 (José Luis Cabrera Ortiz, “Los Excesos de Don José Cabrera,” Isla de Arriarán, 27 [2006], 93-107; Joseph R. Jones, “María Rosa de Gálvez: Notes for a Biography,” Dieciocho, 18 [1995], 173-86; G. S. Rowe, “Prologue to Impeachment: The Case of Don Joseph Cabrera,” pmhb, 102 [1978], 224-42; Philadelphia Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser, 23 Apr. 1805; Philadelphia Aurora, 24 Apr., 20 July, and 5 Nov. 1805). certificado del ministro pleni potenciario: after consulting with TJ, Madison informed Cabrera in a letter of 17 Oct. that the certificate he had enclosed vested his diplomatic character solely in Irujo’s authority. If, however, Cabrera presented documents authenticating his appointment by the king or king’s minister, the administration might intercede. After Cabrera sent the requested documentation, Madison wrote to U.S. attorney Alexander J. Dallas and indicated his belief that Cabrera should “be released from prosecution” but “detained until arrangements can be concerted for returning him to Spain for trial” (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:183, 207-9, 236). Joseph B. McKean, Irujo’s brother-inlaw, was attorney general of Pennsylvania by his father’s appointment in 1800 (Philadelphia Gazette, 13 May 1800; Pennsylvania Pocket Almanack, for the Year 1806 [Philadelphia, 1805], n.p.). Cabrera’s use of the title cavalier d’ambassade (cavalier of the embassy) rather than gentilhomme d’ambassade (gentleman of the embassy) was one of the points of contention between him and Irujo (Ortiz, “Los Excesos de Don José Cabrera,” 101).
From William Eustis Sir, Portsmouth N. Hampshire October 3rd. 1804. The enclosed letter which has been forwarded to me at this place where I happened to be on a visit, I have the honor to transmit by the first mail. I hope the circumstance of my being absent from Boston (which has occasioned a delay of two or three posts) may be productive 473
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of no inconvenience, and have the honor to add an assurance of the high respect & esteem with which I am always your obedt. servt. William Eustis. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not identified.
From Samuel Hanson Sir, Navy-Yard, 3d. Octr. 1804 The Secretary of the Navy informs me that you had the goodness to offer me the place of Commissioner of Loans for the State of Maryland. Having reason, from the small Experiment I have made, to hope that my present Employment will be more profitable than the other, I beg leave to decline it, with due acknowledgements for the offer. with great respect, I am Sir Your most obedt. S Hanson of Saml. RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 3 Oct. and so recorded in SJL with notation “declines Comr. loans Maryld.”
Hanson’s present employment included that of Georgetown postmaster, a position he found unprofitable, and as of 12 Apr., purser at the Washington Navy Yard (FC in Lb in DNA: RG 45, LSO; Hanson to TJ, 10 Mch.).
To Albert Gallatin Oct. 4. 1804.
The appointment of Jonathan Delano to be keeper of the light house at Seguin island; and of James Taylor to be keeper of the light house in Shell castle island is approved. Th: Jefferson commissions are directed for David Broadie Hampton Edmund Key. Llewellensbg RC (CtNlCG); at foot of text: “The Secretary of the Treasury.” PoC (DLC); lacks postscript. Notation in SJL: “Delano. Taylor.”
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From George Jefferson Dear Sir Richmond 4th. Octr. 1804 I forward your account inclosed—from which there appears to be a balance due us of £203.11.8. The Coal which you desired me to send you, I have ordered.—I apprehend however there may be some delay, as there probably may be some difficulty in procuring a vessel, and Coal is likewise very scarce. The blinds I find are not yet forwarded, which now I suppose we need not hurry ourselves about. I am Dear Sir Yr. greatly obliged & Mt. humble Servt. Geo. Jefferson RC (MHi); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 7 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found.
i have ordered: see TJ to Étienne Lemaire, 25 Sep. For TJ’s order for Venetian blinds, see Vol. 43:492-3 and mb, 2:1139.
From Robert K. Lowry Sir Siena 4th. October 1804 Having had, during a short residence in this country, an opportunity to obtain some information respecting the treatment of the Silk worm, and the manner of procuring the Silk after it is made by the insect; I have put my remarks on paper in as full and at the same time as concise a form, as I have been capable of, & take the liberty of sending to your Excellency, with these observations, a portion of the Seed of the Silk-worm, being satisfied that you alone can, or would have the curiosity to attempt, the introduction of this useful insect into the United States. I am at the same time persuaded that it would by no means be difficult to do so.— I am sensible that there are Essays on the subject of the Silk worm in every Encyclopedia published; as also in the Dictionary of Rosier; and that of course the remarks I inclose can scarcely be new, & may therefore be unnecessary. It may still be observed, that it is more than probable that these works repose too much on a very simple operation and that plain directions taken from those whose occupation it is to raise the Silk, are preferable to lengthy theories.— I am on the point of setting out for Marseilles, where I propose passing the Winter. Should I obtain any information there, or on my Route, which should alter materially any of the observations in the papers herewith, I shall take the liberty of communicating it.— 475
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I know not in what terms, to apologize to your Excellency, for an intrusion which has as equal a chance of being troublesome, as of being acceptable. I pray you to attribute to me no motive of officious zeal, or ostentation of utility. With sentiments of profound respect, I remain Your Excellency’s obedient Servt. Robert K Lowry RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Collection); endorsed by TJ as received 28 Jan. 1805 and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Robert K. Lowry, “A Memoir on the Treatment of the Silk-Worm” (later printed in Philadelphia Medical and Physical Journal, 2, pt. 2 [1806], 90-9). Robert K. Lowry (d. 1826) was an American merchant based out of Balti-
more. In 1810, his fellow merchants petitioned Madison to appoint him to a consular position in Caracas, where he served until his death (Madison, Papers, Pres. Ser., 2:388; Baltimore Patriot & Mercantile Advertiser, 20 Feb. 1826). William Short had previously recommended François Rozier’s agricultural dictionary to TJ (Vol. 32:147-60).
To the State Department A pardon to be issued to George Mc.Farland according to the papers inclosed Commissions to David Broadie of Virginia to be Collector of Hampton vice Mount Edward Chisman decd. Edmund Key of Maryland to be Surveyor of the port of Llewellensburg in the district of Nanjemoy and Inspector of the revenue for the same vice Richard Jordan decd. Edward Hall of Maryland to be Commissioner of loans for Maryland vice B. Harwood resigned. Th: Jefferson Oct. 4. 1804 The following commissions also to be issued Elijah Backus of Ohio, Reciever of public monies at Kaskaskias Frederick Bates of Indiana Reciever &c at Detroit Harry Toulman of Kentucky Reciever &c at Fort Stoddart Thomas Fitzpatrick of S. Carolina to be Register at Natchez v. Turner the descriptions of the offices to be made agreeable to the law Th: Jefferson Oct. 5. 04. RC (DNA: RG 59, MLR); at foot of text: “The Secretary of State”; addressed: “Mr. Wagner.” PoC (DLC). Recorded in SJL under 4 Oct. with notation “McFar-
land. Broadie. Key. Hall” and under 5 Oct. with notation “Backus. Bates. Toulman. Fitzpatrick.” Enclosure: Petition of George McFarlane, 15 Aug.
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To Thomas Truxtun Washington Oct. 4. 04.
Th: Jefferson presents his compliments to Capt Truxton and his thanks for the pamphlet of mr Hoppe on the improved Sextant, which his late return to the seat of government and immersion into other business waiting for him, has not permitted him yet to look into. having recieved half a dozen copies from the author, and supposing from mr Hoppe’s letter to Capt Truxton that a single copy only came to him, which he might be willing to recieve again, Th:J. incloses it to him together with mr Hoppe’s letter. PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ. Enclosures: see note at Truxtun to TJ, 25 Sep.
from the author: see Ebenezer Hoppe to TJ, 18 July.
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, Nw. Orleans October 5th. 1804 By the last Mail, I could only acknowledge the receipt of your esteemed favour of the 30th. August;—But I shall now do myself the pleasure to reply to it more particularly. On receiving the Appointment of Governor of this Territory, I feel sensibly the honor confered, and shall be the more solicitous to deserve a Continuance of your Confidence;—I am however firmly persuaded that the office would have been better filled by some Citizen of more established fame and experience in public Life. A great Statesman and Patriot (Mr. Monroe) was lately generally spoken of as the Governor, & had he been selected the Choice would have been peculiarly acceptable to the Nation at large, and particularly pleasing to the Louisianians. I had really Sir, felicitated myself on the honor of surrendering the Government of this part of Louisiana, to that distinguished Patriot, and I declare with sincerity, that no one would have more approbated his appointment than myself:—But since Sir, you have been pleased to confide to me the important Trust, I shall accept with Gratitude, and will deserve it, if I can.—A few Weeks ago, a sacred duty to my family, urged the propriety of my speedily retiring from public employment—But my late misfortunes have left for me no Charms in private Life, and having now no one to provide for, I care very little for those Inroads on my small1 Estate, which I have heretofore been compelled to make: I fear however, that my health will not long permit me, to discharge my duties with fidelity;—Of late years, I find my Constitution much impaired, and I have for some 477
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time thought that a Journey to the Northward, and a few months relaxation from Business would tend to prolong my Life.—If therefore after the new Government for the Territory is organised; the Council have completed their first Session, and no circumstance should render my presence in the District necessary, I should indeed be happy to obtain leave of Absence for four or five Months;—I wish it, as well on account of my health, as to settle my public Accounts, and to arrange my private affairs in Tennessee.—I am aware that by the present Act for the Government of this Territory, no provision is made for the Governor’s absence; But I indulge a hope, that in this particular the Act may be amended, during the ensuing Session of Congress. The worthy Characters selected for our Judges, cannot fail to give general satisfaction, and I am myself particularly gratified by the Appointment of Mr. Brown as Secretary; His distinguished Talents; Knowledge of the Law & of the Languages will render him a valuable acquisition to this new Government. You no doubt have before this, received my answer to your second Letter relative to the Legislative Council; Your first communication upon that subject never reached me, or I beg you to be assured it would have been immediately attended to;—The selection however, which you have made of Councillors, will I believe be generally pleasing to the people, and I have no doubt, but they will faithfully discharge the Trust committed to them. I find your Intention was, to appoint seven Americans and six French Inhabitants; among the Americans, you named a Mr. Romane of Attackapas; this Gentleman is a native of Louisiana, and cannot speak a word of English;—To comply therefore with what seemed to be your primary Object to give to the Americans a preponderance in the Council, I have taken upon myself to fill up one of the Commissions with the name of William Kenner, a Native of the U. States, an honest Man and a respectable Merchant of this City. Nither the Names of M. Derbigny, M. Sauve, or M. Detrahan have been inserted on the List of Councillors; they were omitted on account of the intended visit of those Gentlemen to Washington as Bearers of a Memorial to Congress, & the certainty that neither could give attendance in Council during the ensuing Winter.—With the exception of Mr. Kenner all the other Councillors are taken from the List you have forwarded, & I feel that in his case, I have taken a great liberty; But I really supposed, I have acted in conformity to your desire to place seven Americans in the Council, & therefore hope, that if I have done wrong, you will pardon me.— With respect, to the Marshall, my impression is, that neither of the Gentlemen you have mentioned, would fill that office with propriety. 478
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M. De Clouet is a Captain in the Spanish service, devoted to the Marquis of Casa Calvo, & cannot speak a word of English; of Mr. Guillot I cannot acquire any certain Information; I am enclined to think there is a mistake in the name, and with respect to Mr. Urqueheart, there are two Brothers of that name in this City; they are very honest young Men, but want Talents, and have not yet acquired that standing in Society, which the Marshall of the District should maintain.—In pursuance therefore of that Discretion, which you have authorised me to exercise on this occasion, I have been reflecting on the Name of some honest, capable and popular Creole, to insert in the Commission for Marshall, & have not yet been enabled to make a selection;—I however will do so, in two or three Days, and will give you particular information as to the Character &c. of the person selected. You may be assured of my exertions to encourage harmony & good order; to advance the Welfare of the Territory, & the Interests of the United States, & to check & punish those peculations which were heretofore customary in Louisiana;—I fear that in a late transaction, the particulars of which, I have communicated to the Secretary of State, the Conduct of Mr. Evan Jones (one of the Counsellors) will not appear in a favorable Light, but the papers & Documents are all with the Secretary of State, and from them a correct opinion may be formed. Nether of the Judges having arrived, I filled up the Commission for administering the Oaths of Office to the Governor, with the name of James Pitot Mayor of New-Orleans, and on the 2nd. Inst. I took & subscribed the oaths required; a Copy of a short Address, which I made on the occasion to the Citizens, I have enclosed to the Secretary of State. I have recently turned my attention to the study of the french, & hope to acquire a tolerable knowledge of that Language, in a few months.—The Fever in this City has much abated, but is not yet extinguished. The number of Deaths have been very great;—I verily believe, more than a third of the Americans who emigrated thither in the course of the last 12 Months have perished, and nearly every Person from Europe who arrived in the City during the Summer Months. Lower Louisiana is a beautiful Country, and rewards abundantly the Labour of man;—But the Climate is a wretched one, and destructive to human Life. I pray God to preserve you in health and happiness. I am Dear Sir, With great respect Your faithful friend William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”;
endorsed by TJ as received 6 Nov. and so recorded in SJL.
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5 OCTOBER 1804 my answer to your second let ter: Claiborne to TJ, 30 Aug., written in reply to TJ to Claiborne, 7 July. two brothers: Thomas and David Urquhart (Bradley, Interim Appointment, 581-3; James Wilkinson to TJ, 1 July, Enclosure No. 2). conduct of mr. evan jones: see Madison to TJ, 8 Sep., Enclosure No. 5. Claiborne’s short address, delivered at his inauguration as governor of Orleans Territory on 2 Oct., proclaimed his
desire to merit the approbation of the president and the territory’s citizens, and to contribute to the happiness “of those over whom I am called upon to preside.” He enclosed a copy in a letter to Madison written the same day (Terr. Papers, 9:303-4; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:108-9). 1 Claiborne here canceled “private fortune.”
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Washington 5 Oct. 1804— I enclose a petition directed to you which was given to me this morning by an old man, now at my house, who has walked from the vicinity of Pittsburg to the seat of Government in order to try to obtain the discharge of a son who whilst from home enlisted in the army and is very desirous to return and assist in supporting his father and family. The petition is signed by the most respectable of our friends at Pittsburgh (Irish, Ewalt, Baldwin &c.) and even by some of the federalists: I have no doubt, therefore, of his story, services &c being true. The difficulty is, supposing the discharge should be granted, whether it can be done during Gen. Dearborn’s absence; and it is hard that he who is poor should be obliged to wait an indefinite time. I beg, at all events, that you will have the goodness to communicate your decision to me. With greatest respect Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin The son is at Carlisle in Capn. McClellan’s company— RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 5 Oct. and “petn to discharge a souldier” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found, but see below. In a letter of 9 Oct., Dearborn informed John McClallen of David H. Bryon’s application for the discharge of his son, John Bryon, and explained that the age,
former services, and decrepitude of the father had induced Dearborn to allow the request. Dearborn instructed McClallen to write to the commanding officer at Carlisle for Bryon’s immediate release from duty, with additional instructions to retrieve “the public clothing which he has received” and any expenses related to his enlistment, including the paid bounty (FC in Lb in DNA: RG 107, LSMA).
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From George Ingels United States Arsenal,
Sir, near Philadelphia October 5th. 1804. The object of this letter is most respectfully to solicit the appointment of me, to the Office of Superintendant of Military Stores: in making my solicitation, I pray you to accept my apology for not accompanying it with recommendations: I did not conceive it an indispensible measure: as in 1802 you were pleased to signify your pleasure in the appointment of me to my present Office, and the recommendations on my behalf, I presume can readily be refered to. On the 31st. July last, immediately after the decease of the late Superintendant, the honorable the Secretary of War requested me by Letter to Act as Superintendant and Agent for the Indian Factories until you should be pleased to appoint a Superintendant; in compliance with the Secretary’s request I am now executing the duties of those Offices, & I cherish a belief my attention and care will meet with approbation. My application you will readily perceive Sir, is for preferment, and your selection of me will ever be remembered with the deepest and most affectionate gratitude. With high Respect, I am Sir, Your most Obedient Servant. Geo Ingels Military Store Keeper. RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esquire President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 7 Oct. and “to be vice Irwin” and so recorded in SJL. George Ingels (1746-1827) was a carpenter, a deacon in the Baptist Church, and a public figure in the city of Philadelphia. During the American Revolution, Ingels fought at the battles of Trenton and Princeton and afterward served as a commissary in the Continental Army’s military stores department at Lancaster, Pennsylvania. After the war, he returned to Philadelphia and in 1787 was appointed the state’s inspector and measurer of lumber. At Philadelphia’s 4 July 1788 celebration of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, Ingels bore the standard of the city’s house carpenters in the grand procession. During the 1790s, he became a member of Pennsyl-
vania’s Republican Party and served as a state legislator representing Philadelphia County. In 1801, several Philadelphia Republicans recommended him to replace Federalist Samuel Hodgdon as the superintendent of military stores in Philadelphia. TJ apparently met Ingels in March 1802, when he delivered a letter from Robert Patterson recommending him for the position of military storekeeper at the Schuylkill Arsenal. After receiving his appointment in April 1802, Ingels served in this position through the War of 1812 (American Baptist Magazine, 8 [Boston, 1828], 93-5; Samuel Hazard and others, eds., Pennsylvania Archives, 119 vols. [Harrisburg, 1852-1935], 3d ser., 10:682; New-Haven Gazette, 17 July 1788; Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser, 1 Nov. 1800; Vol. 34:69-70; Vol. 37:107-9). requested me: on 27 July, Henry Dearborn arrived in Philadelphia on his way to Massachusetts and issued orders
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5 OCTOBER 1804 for the temporary execution of the duties of the late William Irvine (American, and
Baltimore Gazette, 3 Aug.; Dearborn to TJ, 23 Aug.).
To George Jefferson Dear Sir
Washington Oct. 5. 04.
According to our arrangement at Monticello I presume that my draughts in favor of Old for 298.12 Garrett 274.03 572.15 have been presented and honored; I now inclose you six hundred Dollars in bills of the B. bank US. of Washington recieved directly from that bank & consequently sure. Accept affectionate salutations Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. George Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “600. D.” On 22 Sep. in his financial memoranda, TJ recorded that he was to answer to James old, “sheriff & collector for St. Anne’s,” for the sum of $298.12, which included cash as well as $24.10 for “taxes. 5. whites. 47. blacks. tytheables, 2 do. not so. 14. Horses. 1 chaise,” as well as land tax in St. Anne’s Parish for $9.72, “county & parish levy on 52. tithes” for $48.88, and “clerks tickets” for $4.60 (mb, 2:1136). According to his financial memoranda of 10 Sep., TJ recorded obligations to Albemarle County deputy sheriff Alexander garrett, including taxes for 2,112 acres of land in Fredericksville Parish and 160 acres of Shadwell “tenanted by Turner,”
84 cents for subpoenaing a witness, payment of $150 for Craven Peyton relating to Elizabeth Henderson’s warehouse, and an order on John Perry for $12.25. TJ drew an order on Gibson & Jefferson on 24 Sep. in favor of Garrett for $263.78, which covered orders of 23 Aug. and 10 and 20 Sep. (same, 1135, 1136; Woods, Albemarle, 201). six hundred dollars: on 5 Oct., TJ recorded receipt from the Bank of the United States of this amount, which he remitted to Gibson & Jefferson. George Jefferson acknowledged the letter and payment, writing to TJ from Richmond on the 8th that he was “duly favor’d with yours of the 5th. inclosing $:600” (mb, 2:1137; George Jefferson to TJ, 8 Oct., RC in MHi, endorsed by TJ as received 11 Oct. and so recorded in SJL with notation “600. D.”).
To Jones & Howell Messrs. Jones & Howell Washington Oct. 5. 04. Be pleased to send immediately, to the address of Messrs. Gibson & Jefferson of Richmond to be forwarded to Monticello two tons of nailrod assorted as usual for me heretofore, advising me when it leaves Philadelphia. 482
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On the subject of the sheet iron on which you wrote me on the 15th. of Sep. I must take further time for enquiry. Accept my friendly salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “2 tons rod.”
nailrod assorted as usual: see TJ to Jones & Howell, 29 Mch. 1804.
To Benjamin H. Latrobe Dear Sir Washington Oct. 5. 04. I returned here on the 30th. Ult. and confess myself much disappointed in the progress of the Capitol. mr Lenthall urges the general sickness among his hands as the cause, and from my entire confidence in his diligence I have no doubt as much has been done as could be by the hands he had. the error has been in not engaging others so as to keep up a sufficient number constantly at work. I am particularly mortified that scarcely any thing has been done of the interior walls. the only ground on which I consented to pull down the chamber of the H. of R. was the strong representation that the work could not be depended on unless both the external & internal walls were carried up together so as to make good bond and to settle all together. this representation by persons of the art I relied on as my apology to the members of the legislature to whom I had given reason to believe their chamber needed not to be taken down this year. on this it was taken down, yet the work has not been carried up together, and I know not what I shall have to say. mr Lenthall says mr Munroe understood from a letter of mine that every thing was to stop that the external walls might be pushed. but there is some mistake in this, as my letter used these very words ‘I think with mr Lenthall that the interior walls should be raised to the height of the basement story to support the external walls.’ However the important object now is to avail ourselves to the utmost of the remainder of the season. to do this we are to consider 1. what force our funds will employ thro’ the season. 2. whether that force can be procured. 3. whether the materials can be procured. I am afraid the utmost which can be done is to raise the interior as high as the cellar walls. even this will make some shew, and, as so far a support to the exterior walls will so far exhibit a reason for the demolition of the house. but to accomplish this there is not one day to lose, nor can any step be taken toward accomplishing it till you come. I hope therefore you will come immediately [to] aid us in deciding what may be attempted, and put it under 483
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way. mr Lenthall will exert faithfully whatever means are put into his hands, but he is too diffident to undertake the first decision. nothing but the greatest exertion can render possible the completion of the work the next year, and the cramming the Representatives into the library a second and long session. The gutturs of this house also await you, and in the mean time are constantly pouring floods of water into it. the covering of the house is unfinished for want of some strips for the joints. every thing relative to this house & the highways which was not considerably advanced, was stopped early in August on the alarm I recieved from mr Munroe on the state of our funds, that the Capitol might be pushed to the utmost. A word now on my own affairs. my works at home will shortly call for 100. sheets of rolled iron 16. I. wide and 11. f. 8 I. long. can you furnish them in the course of 3. or 4. months? the amalgamating 2. sheets together at their ends in the manner of the inclosed paper, is an operation certainly well understood at the iron works. but if they cannot be obtained of the length desired in this way or in a single roll I must be content to tuck them together in the common way. Accept my salutations & assurances of esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of first page: “Mr. Latrobe”; endorsed by TJ. Enclosure not found.
my letter: TJ to Thomas Munroe, 4 Aug. Munroe reported his alarm at a lack of funds in a letter of 31 July.
To Allan B. Magruder Sir Washington Oct. 5. 04 Your favor of Sep. 10. has been duly recieved, and I learn with pleasure that you propose to rescue the actions of the Aborigines of our country from the oblivion which is covering them. I am sorry it is not in my power to assist you with any materials towards it. in an early part of my life my researches were carrying me into the antiquities of America, but called into a totally distinct line of action and constantly employed in it, I abandoned my first pursuits almost as soon as they had been entered on. of Manuscripts I possess nothing of any value; nor have I of printed books on the subject anything but what is in everyone’s hands such as Colden, and Adair. their wars with the Whites I presume are preserved no where but in the public histories of the latter. wishing you much success and repeating my 484
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regrets that I can contribute nothing to it I salute you with consideration & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Mr. Allan B. Magruder.” what is in everyone’s hands: Cadwallader Colden, The History of the Five Indian Nations of Canada, Which Are Dependent on the Province of New-York in
America, and James Adair, The History of the American Indians; Particularly Those Nations Adjoining to the Mississippi, East and West Florida, Georgia, South and North Carolina, and Virginia, were published in London in 1747 and 1775, respectively (Sowerby, No. 445 and No. 3997).
Notes on Appointments [on or before 5 Oct. 1804]
Vincennes. Nathanl Ewen of Pensva Reciever ✓ Kaskaskias. Elijah Backus of Ohio Reciever ✓ Detroit. Frederick Bates of Indiana. Reciever ✓ Mi. tery. East of Pearl river Harry Toulman of Kentucky Reciever 1 ✓ Mispi. tery. West of Pearl river Thos. Fitzpatrick Registar v. Turner MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 234:41897); undated (see below); entirely in TJ’s hand; precedes, on same sheet, Notes on Tensions with Spain and Great Britain, printed at end of October. TJ had been considering these candidates since July, when he consulted with Gallatin about them. Although it is uncertain when the president compiled the list printed above, he likely did so in conjunction with issuing temporary commis-
sions. On 5 Oct. he added the last four names on this list to a request for commissions from the State Department, perhaps later inserting check marks after signing the completed commissions. On the 12th, TJ requested a commission for Nathaniel Ewing (ewen), the first candidate on the list (Terr. Papers, 7:222-3, 226; Notes on Appointments, printed at 30 Aug.; TJ to the State Department, 4 Oct.). 1
Below this line TJ canceled “Natchez.”
Petition of Charles Smallwood, with Jefferson’s Order To the President of the United States, [on or before 5 Oct. 1804] The Humble Petition of Charles Smallwood now confined in the Jail of Washington County in the District of Columbia, Sheweth that your Petitioner is confined for his Fine and Fees, under two different Prossecutions for an Assault which your Petitioner was guilty of from 485
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uncommon provocation, that in each case upon Submission to the Court they only fined him one dollar; But! from the Length of time confined previous and Subsequent to his Submission, and the Cost attending the aforesaid two prosecutions the Amount has swell’d to a sum greatly above what he is able to pay, that his labours for a long time passed has been applied principaly to the support and Maintenance of an Aged Mother entirely dependant on his Industry, that since his confinement she has lived entirely on the bounty of persons to whose Alms she has gone and still goes begging charity and must soon be drove to the Alms-house unless your Petitioner shou’d be liberated, that the expence is every day accumulating and your Petitioner render’d more and more incompetent to pay. Wherefore your Petitioner prays that you will be pleased to grant him A Pardon Remitting him his Fines and Fees, he is the more emboldened to make this application as the Honorable the Court have Shewn by the smallness of the fines their sence of the Offence, Your Petitioner will ever pray Charles Smallwood The undersigned Judges of the Circuit Court of the District of Columbia, respectfully represent to the President of the United States, that they are induced to believe that Charles Smallwood the within petitioner is not able to pay his fines and fees, and are of opinion that his imprisonment has operated as a punishment fully adequate to his offences, they therefore respectfully recommend a compliance with the prayer of his petition. W Kilty W. Cranch. N; Fitzhugh [Order by TJ:] Let a pardon issue
Th: Jefferson Oct. 6. 04.
RC (DNA: RG 59, GPR); undated; petition in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smallwood; recommendation in William Cranch’s hand, signed by all. Enclosed in Daniel Carroll Brent to TJ, 5 Oct.: “I am directed by the Judges to forward you the enclosed with due respect” (RC in
DLC; endorsed by TJ as received 5 Oct. and “Smallwood’s petn” and so recorded in SJL). TJ issued a pardon of Smallwood for his fine and fees on 8 Oct. (FC in Lb in DNA: RG 59, GPR).
486
From Jacob Wagner, with Notes for a Reply [5 Oct. 1804]
A blank temporary common for this office was sent to the Southward before the last session of Congress, which was returned with Mr. Chambers’ name after the adjournment. As therefore this will be the second temporary common for the same person and office, qu. how far constitutional? J.W. [In TJ’s hand:] Kirby’s lre of Feb. 5. gives reason to suppose that Chambers’s commn was dated & delivered soon after the 26th. of Jan. 1804. that was not known here till Apr. 9. and Congress was then risen. they rose Mar. 27.1 the first commission was vicious because granted during the session of Senate without their approbn. but this was unavoidable. the best remedy is to revoke that commn by dating 2 a 2d. commn the day after the rising of Congress the act having expressly authorised the appointmt by the President during the recess of Senate. the defect of authority will thus be thrown on the interval between Jan. 26. & Mar. 28. within which little or nothing was done RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 143:24951); undated; endorsed by TJ as a letter of 5 Oct. from the State Department and “Chambers’s commission.”
1 Preceding
sentence interlined. first wrote “the best remedy is to date,” before altering the text to read as above. 2 TJ
To Jacob Wagner Th: Jefferson to mr Wagner. Oct. 5. 04. The case of Chambers’s commission is so entirely singular that it is proper to make a statement of it to be retained in the office. the district East of Pearl river that is to say, the Tombigbee settlement, was so distant & had been so little in communication with the government that not a single person there was known to the Executive as fit for the office of register. a commission therefore was signed July 12 1803. but left blank both as to name & date, and confided to Colo. Kirby to be filled up by him after his arrival there & due enquiry for a fit character. he arrived there Jan. 26. 1804. and filled up the commission with the name of Joseph Chambers. but this was irregular because the Senate was then in session. this was not known here till Apr. 9. the Senate having risen Mar. 27. As the act expressly authorises 487
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the President to issue the commission in the recess of Senate, the most effective remedy is believed to be the issuing another commission dated Mar. 28. (& signed nunc pro tunc) which places beyond question all acts of the register after that date; and it is believed little or nothing but merely preparatory business had been done by the board, between Jan. 26. & Mar. 28. RC (DNA: RG 59, MLR); undated, date supplied from PoC. PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “Chambers.” act expressly authorises: section 14 of “An Act regulating the grants of land, and providing for the disposal of the
lands of the United States, south of the state of Tennessee” (U.S. Statutes at Large, 2:229, 234). nunc pro tunc: now for then, that is, having retroactive legal effect (Bryan A. Garner, Black’s Law Dictionary, 8th ed. [St. Paul, Minn., 2004], 1100; Vol. 33:119n).
From David Austin Respected Sir— Elizabeth Town, Octor. 6th. 1804. I used to address you on the subject of the European War, & of the probability of the reacting fire, & of the returning blaze.— It may be that this anticipated view may be drawing nigh. Should there be any place near your dwelling that might afford me employment & support, I should be happy to lend my aid in the discharge of such duties as might be assigned me. I am at present at, & near Eliza. Town and shall not be inattentive to such duties as may appear becoming whether, in this place, or elsewhere. With all due esteem, & with all good Wishes for the Wellfare of the Nation, subscribe your obliged friend David Austin. RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Th: Jefferson Prest: U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Oct. and “office” and so recorded in SJL.
To DeWitt Clinton Dear Sir Washington Oct. 6. 04. Your favor of Sep. 21. was recieved on my return to this place. certainly the distribution of so atrocious a libel as the pamphlet Aristides, and still more the affirming it’s contents to be true as holy writ presents a shade in the morality of mr Swartwout of which his character had not before been understood to be susceptible. such a rejection of all regard to truth, would have been sufficient cause against recieving him into the corps of Executive officers at first; but whether 488
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it is expedient, after a person is appointed, to be as nice on a question of removal, requires great consideration. I proposed soon after coming into office to enjoin the executive officers from intermedling with elections as inconsistent with the true principles of our constitution. it was laid over for consideration: but late occurrences prove the propriety of it, and it is now under consideration. In the absence of the Secretary of state I desired his Chief clerk to inclose you an extract of a letter respecting General Moreau. that as private individuals we should recieve him with cordiality is just. but any public display would be injurious to him, and to our harmony with his former government. I salute you with friendship & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (NNC); addressed: “DeWitt Clinton esq. New York”; franked and postmarked; endorsed by Clinton. PoC (DLC). Clinton’s favor, recorded in SJL as received 1 Oct., has not been found. Clinton evidently discussed John swartwout, the U.S. marshal for the district of New York. A friend and political ally of Aaron Burr, Swartwout had fought Clinton in a duel in 1802 (Kline, Burr, 2:734-6, 830, 880; Vol. 33:675; Vol. 39:314).
now under consideration: see TJ to Gallatin, 8 Sep.; Gallatin to TJ, 18 Sep. extract of a letter: probably Robert R. Livingston to Madison, 22 June, in which Livingston apprised the secretary of state of Jean Victor Moreau’s decision to start his exile in New York and advised that the mayor of New York “prevent any offensive steps from being taken” (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:350).
From “A Friend to Merit” Sir. Annapolis 6h. October 1804— The purport of this communication is to delineate to you (for fear it has not already been done) the Characters and pretensions of the candidates lately before you for the office of Commissioner of loans of this State. These candidates, as I have been informed and verily believe, are as follow: Henry H. Harwood, John Brewer, John Randall, Lewis Duvall & Edward Hall, The first named Candidate (though a Federalist) is realy a Gentleman of considerable worth & merit, and well deserving of confidence— He was brought up in the Treasury of Maryland, under the best officers of the State, and intrusted repeatedly with the Keys of the Treasury 489
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conduct1
and the of the business of that office & the office of Commissioner of loans for twelve or fourteen years last passed—and was appointed by the Legislature of Maryland in the year 1800. agent for the State. In which capacity he conducted himself with strict propriety, & received the thanks of the Legislature for the faithfull discharge of the duties of the office. In the exercise of this office, he was constantly in the receipt of large sums of money from the different Collectors of the State, Sheriffs & other officers.—Indeed, the whole revenue of the State passed through his hands for that year. This Gentleman, I have heard, appeared before you very highly recommended by Gentlemen of considerable respectability, some of whom, are of that sect denominated Republicans;—I mean Mr. Nicholson of the House of Representatives Mr. Mason, President of the Columbia Bank, Mr. Johnson of the Senate and Colo. Mercer & Mr. Muir of the House of Delegates of Maryland—He was, as I have also been informed, very warmly recommended by the late Commissioner of Loans:—which alone, with persons acquainted with that gentleman, would have been amply sufficient— The second named Candidate (Mr. Brewer) is an assistant Clerk in the land office of this State. Has been in that office six or eight years— Is, as far as I have been able to Judge, a decent young man—and is considered tolerably cleaver in the line of business in which he is engaged.—He can issue Warrants, grant Patents & make searches with facility— The third Candidate (Mr. Randall) is a Virginian by birth, and settled & married in this State about 20 years since.—During which he has been engaged in the mercantile business & for ten years passed has been Naval Officer of this Port. He is a Gentleman of a very amiable Character of mild and easy manners. It is said he has not been successful in his business as merchant, by means of his great indulgence to his debtors; and has for several years been sinking his Capital—nor does the profits of his office yield him more than from 50 to 100$ an.—He has a very large family of children perhaps, a dozen.—In fact it is conjectured he is very considerably involved in debt.—and if such an office as Commissioner of Loans ought to be intrusted to a person involved in Debt, it would have been a very Charitable act if the one for this State had been given to Mr. Randall—It was very strongly immagined here among the Democrats that he would have been the successful Candidate, especially when it came to be known that he had been brought into view by your tale bearer and news carrier Thomas Munroe Esquire, Postmaster for & Superintendant of the City of Washington &C. &C. 490
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The fourth Candidate (Mr. Duvall) is a Shop keeper in this City of about four or five years Standing—Has lately been appointed a Captain to a Volunteer Company of Militia and a Justice of the peace for the County of Anne Arundel. He is not remarkable for the soundness of his understanding, or the solidity of his Judgment. He is however of correct deportment—and it is believed he is not much in debt— The fifth Candidate (Mr. Hall) is one of the Council of Maryland;— was for three or four years in the House of Delegates, and part of that time speaker to the House—He was patronised by & first elected into the Legislature under the influence of a Country Tailor—He is considered by all who are acquainted with him as possessing a very moderate share of the gifts of nature—Tho’ I have been informed that Mr. Gallatin has been heard to say “He was a young Gentleman of the first talents in Maryland” It shews how well he is acquainted with Maryland talents.—Mr. Hall is indeed remarkable for his sullen pertinacity and the crookedness of his understanding— I have been told (for I do not know that I ever saw him write or have seen any of his writing) that he scarcely writes a legible hand— nor is he often correct in spelling what he does write—and as for accounts he knows nothing of them more than such as may have been handed to him by his Tailor, Barber, &Ca. By the Constitution of this State a member of the Council should be possessed of a real Estate of the value of £1000—and it has been well known that Mr. Hall does not possess real & personal Estate to that amount—Indeed it has been said, & with much truth too I believe, that if his debts were paid he would have neither real or personal Estate—It is a well known fact that he is constantly under Execution— and very often in the custody of the Constables— A Tailor was heard to say the morning the news of his appointment reached here that “he intended to warrant him for his Tailor’s Bill the first time he came to town—But hearing he was to have public money in his hands he expected payment without”— This is the man you in your wisdom have thought proper to appoint Commissioner of Loans for this State, & in whose hands, of course, large sums of money are to be deposited— Have you been imposed upon, or do you really think this appointment will promote republicanism in this County? If the latter, believe Sir, you will find yourself most egregiously mistaken—The Republicans of this County are as much disgusted with the appointment, & I believe more too, than the federals are—some of them have long been 491
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displeased with certain acts of yours & the State administration & they begin now to speak out. Most of them believe that the within affidavits had a powerful influence with you to give Mr. Hall the appointment supposing thereby that you would mortify Col. Mercer or injure his influence here.—But in that particular believe me Sir you are equally mistaken—or perhaps a man’s being charged with perjury is a very Strong recommendation to your favor—for you must either believe Mr. Hall guilty of perjury or that Mr. Mason has told an untruth— I am, with due respect, yrs. &Ca. A Friend to Merit. RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esquire President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as an anonymous letter received 9 Oct. and “Candidates for Commr. loans. no post mark” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: probably John F. Mercer’s handbill addressed “To the Public” and printed prior to 5 Aug. 1803, defending his charge of perjury against Edward Hall; Mercer provides a transcript of his affidavit, signed 23 July 1803, affirming a conversation with John Thomson Mason in which Mason informed Mercer that Hall had committed perjury by lying to
the court about having paid a debt that he in fact had not paid; Mercer includes transcripts of depositions given by his sister-in-law and his son, also on 23 July, swearing that they heard the conversation between Mercer and Mason as Mercer recalled it; Mercer states that this handbill is in response to one issued by Hall in which Mason denied Mercer’s interpretation of the conversation in question (handbill in same; text printed in Baltimore Republican; or, Anti-Democrat, 5 Aug. 1803). 1
MS: “condut.”
From William Jarvis Sir Lisbon 6th. Octr. 1804. I was duly honored with your favours of the 19th. & 20 July, inclosing the first & second of a bill of Exchange drawn by James Madison Esquire on James Maury Esqr. of Liverpool for three hundred dollars, which I endorsed payable at four shillings & six pence each, to prevent Mr Madison losing by the Exchange, dollars being worth 4/9 in England. Although, Sir, I was much disappointed at the non-acceptance of the pipe of Oeyras Wines, yet I cannot, but approve of the principle, notwithstanding I am the sufferer by it: and it would add vastly to the happiness of the human species if it was universally adopted by Men in power; but unfortunately for mankind few first Magistrates of a Nation have been Philosophers. Upon the strength of the observation of some celebrated Man that a present ought to be something of little value, at the same time to be desirable from its rarity or scarcity, I have taken the liberty to send by the Sloop Unity, Captn Deakins, for Alexandria, a Box of Oranges, 492
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four half pails of figs, two pails of soft shelled Almonds, four small boxes of preserves, secured to-gether & seventeen baskets, also tied to-gether, which I must beg that you will do me the honor to accept— It is so early in the Season that I am afraid the oranges will not be so sweet as I could wish, but they are the best the Country affords at this time. I should have been happy to have been informed whether the two pipes of Termo Wine were to your satisfaction & which Sir you preferred. From what two of my friends to the Northward, to whom I sent some of the same, have written me, I should hope that it did, as they were much pleased with it. By the first Vessel for New York, I shall send a Pipe of the same, unless I can find some other that is better. there is a kind of wine called Bucellos, that if I mistake1 not you did not name among those kinds you enumerated, it is very dry & remarkably well flavoured, but is extremely dear, costing at this time Rs 120$000 (ie $150 pipe). The vintage has not been abundant this year owing to the drought, but the quality of the Wine is uncommonly fine.— Allow me Sir to assure you [again] of my sense of the obligation [for] the appointment you conferred [on] my father, which as a mark of your regard for his character would at any time have been highly agreeable, but at present was peculiarly grateful— Assuring you of the satisfaction it will at all times give me to execute your commands, I have the honor to be With the most profound Veneration & Respect Sir Yr. Mo. Obdt. & devotd Sert. William Jarvis N.B. The articles above mentioned I included in the Bill of Lading of some trifles sent to Genl Dearborn RC (DLC); torn; addressed: “Thomas Jefferson Esquire President of the United States Washington” and “ Sloop Unity Captn Deakins via Alexandria”; franked; postmarked Alexandria; endorsed by TJ as received 1 Dec. and so recorded in SJL.
my father: TJ had appointed Charles Jarvis, a Boston physician, as surgeon of the marine hospital in Charlestown, Massachusetts (Vol. 32:347-9). 1 MS:
“mistatake.”
To Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Washington Oct. 6. 04. Your favor of Sep. 23. was recieved on my arrival here, and I have no doubt that between yourself and mr Hawkins the Polygraph will be rendered perfect. for the one I have at Monticello you were so kind 493
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as to send me a pair of brass pen-cases with the screw top and for recieving the small bit of a quill pen, which I found so much better suited to my handwriting and so easily susceptible of nice adjustment, that I preferred them to all others and find myself obliged to ask you for a pair for the polygraph I have here. altho’ I presume the fixed tube for recieving the pen-case is exactly alike in all the instruments, yet I inclose a wooden pin exactly fitting mine for greater security. it is better the pencase should be too large than too small for the tube because in the former case it is easily rubbed down. I salute you with friendship & respect Th: Jefferson RC (TxU); at foot of text: “Mr. Peale.” PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ.
From James Oldham Dear Sir— Milton October 7th. 1804. Have bin down to Richmond to se if I could ingage a job of work before I movd. my tools, but have bin unsucsesful in the trip; Conl. Harvy, did not now of any opening that I would. be likey. to fall into Business at the present, but thot probebell something might offer in the spring. I should. be very glad to work for Conl. Matison for reasons my pay would. be sertain and when done should. have a small capital to begin on, and at the same time should. attend to any opening that might offer at Richmond. I moast seriously regret being out of imployment, for it is my wish never to spend time in indelence whilst am able to earn a shilling in an honest way, whatever is now disadvantageous to my self, I pray to Heaven to bless my enemeys with, and grant to them injoyment of contience. With respect I have the Honour to be, Sir, Your Obt. Servt. James Oldham RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thoms. Jefferson Esqre.”; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
For TJ’s recommendation of Oldham to John Harvie (harvy), see TJ to Harvie, 27 Sep.
494
To Martha Jefferson Randolph My dear Martha Washington Oct. 7. 04. I arrived here this day week, having travelled through the rain of that day rather than stay in disagreeable quarters. I experienced no inconvenience from it. the Marquis Yrujo arrived two days after me, and mr Madison & Genl. Dearborne got here the last night. the latter has left his family in Maine for the winter. Yrujo is said to be very ill, taken two days ago. I inclose a magazine for Jefferson, merely for the sake of the plate which may add to the collection for his room. you will see in the magazine an account of a new work by mrs Robinson, mrs Cosway & mrs Watson which must be curious. a great deal of sickness has been & still exists in this place: I trust however that the hard frosts we had a week ago have destroyed the germ of new cases. the sickliness of the summer has been so general that we may consider the exemption of our canton from it as very remarkeable. four weeks tomorrow our winter campaign opens. I dread it on account of the fatigues of the table in such a round of company, which I consider as the most serious trials I undergo. I wish much to turn it over to younger hands and to be myself but a guest at the table, & free to leave it as others are; but whether this would be tolerated is uncertain. I hope mr Randolph, yourself, & the dear children continue well. I miss you all at all times, but especially at breakfast, dinner & the evening when I have been used to unbend from the labours of the day. present me affectionately to mr Randolph, & my kisses to the young ones. my tender and unchangeable love to yourself. Adieu my ever dear daughter Th: Jefferson RC (NNPM); final sentence, closing, and signature clipped, supplied from PoC. PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mrs. Randolph”; endorsed by TJ. Enclosure: see below. for the sake of the plate: the September issue of the Literary Magazine included an engraved portrait of the president by Cornelius Tiebout. The same
issue gave an account of The Winter’s Day, a book-length poem written by Mary Robinson with illustrations painted by Maria Cosway and engraved for print by Caroline Watson. The reviewer called it “a very curious work” in which “the genius of three ladies, in different departments, are happily and splendidly combined” (Literary Magazine, and American Register, 2 [1804], [412], 416-7).
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From Daniel Baldwin Much esteemed President Paterson New jersey of the united States Oct. 8. 1804 It is not for me as an individual to point out to your duty, or to direct you in any part of it. But from the probable events that I think is likely to take place Europe, and the connection of this country with certain powers in it I am induced to beleive that this country will sooner or later find the propriety of establishing a navy yard at Some place in the middle States for its defence having once1 been imployed in that business at the Wallabough and being fully convinced of the impropriety of its situation in regard to the Security of the Ships and stores, as long as it not thought necessary to fortify the narrows. Perhaps the improbability of doing it will prevent it ever being done— Should you be of opinion that a navy yard is necessary, the eligibility of the north river I presume deserves your attention both from its local situation, and the Security that can be given to it by act, as well as what nature has already done for Such a situation I trust I need not add that it will be on the main land and have the Security of the eastern and middle states always to defend it. whereas the other 2 is on an Island easy to come at at all times and no possability of its being defended without the valuable city of New york being exposed to both fires in time action. It is true the States have laid out much money at the Wallabough, but it appears to me to be one of the many Speculations of your Predesessor, and the States will not I trust loose much by it. The merchants of the city I am of opinion were the cause of it, and will feel them selfs bound to take it of the hands of the Government and I have many reasons to beleive they will do it when offered to them at nearly its value. The vast quantity of naval stores I left there, and immense value I think demands a little of your attention the exact number of cannon &c &c I cannot now give you but a list of those things you know were to find with out my troubling you here with them. I Shall only say I have seen them going often to distruction and beleive they are now going fast for want of some person to pay that attention that is necessary for their preservation. The late removal of Daniel Ludlow is enough for me to know his conduct was not pleasing to you, as to the cause and effects of many things done there. the Vice Presedent is acquainted with them all, and Should you be disposed to know my character as well as things done there, he can fully explain. Dr Mitchel and Dr Condit are well acquanted with as well as most the members from Jersey 496
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I Some time ago wrote to Governor Bloomfield who promised me to represent things to you, but fearing the hurry of business has prevented him I now trouble you with this beleiveing that my country may be benefited by it, and to do good to it has been my pride, my boast and for which I have freely Shed my blood. Should my plan of removeing the Navy yard meet your approbation it is enough. From your friend and Humble Servent Daniel Baldwin RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States of America &c. &c. &c.”; endorsed by TJ as received 14 Oct. and “for emploiment”; recorded in SJL as received 13 Oct. and with notation “N.” Enclosed in TJ to Robert Smith, 14 Oct. Daniel Baldwin (1753-1815) received a commission as a lieutenant in a New Jersey regiment in 1775 and eventually rose to the rank of captain. During the battle of Germantown, he received a wound that necessitated the amputation of a leg. In 1786, Congress awarded Baldwin $1,000 for his intelligence-gathering services conducted in Newark, New Jersey, late in the war. In addition to their letters to TJ, Baldwin and his wife, Phebe, also sought
financial assistance from Presidents Washington and Madison (jcc, 30:28n, 118-19, 207-8, 387n, 419-20; 31:777; Washington, Papers, Pres. Ser., 2:486; 6:373; Madison, Papers, Pres. Ser., 1:209, 384; New York Columbian, 9 Sep. 1815; Robert Smith to TJ, 25 Oct., second letter; Vol. 39:410-11). wallabough: in early 1801, the Navy Department purchased land adjoining Wallabout Bay on the Long Island side of the East River (ndqw, 7:39-40, 81). vice presedent: Aaron Burr had an interest in Baldwin’s situation and took two of Baldwin’s sons into his law office (Kline, Burr, 2:705n). 1 2
MS: “one.” MS: “othe.”
From Joseph Barnes Naples Octr. 8th 1804
Having on my arrival here reced. a Letter from my Agent at Palermo, dated Sepr. 24th 1804 relative to a third attack on Tripoli, I embrace the earliest opportunity of communicating the Same to Mr Jefferson—Viz—it purports, that Commodore Baron had joined Preble off Tripoli with four Frigates; that another attack had been made in which we had beaten the Turks; that the Bashaw was disposed for peace; & that favorable news was daily expected from thence; tho’ unfortunately we have Lost Six brave officers & forty men— For the Satisfaction of the President I hereto Subjoin an extract of Said Letter verbatum.— Should the United States, So young as a Nation, with So Small a Population, (compared with the Nations of Europe) and at Such a great distance, be the first to Liberate themselves from the impositions of those Barbarians, who have hitherto made the great powers of Europe tributary, it would be Glorious to them, and full demonstration 497
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to the world that Republics do not want energy—which is the necessary effect of a Laudable & just pride which those free of Slavish fear alone can possess truly.— Tho’ ’tis the fate of War, yet the reflection of the Loss of our brave fellow Citizens Lessons much the gratification which we Should otherwise feel on the Occasion.— I have had Several interviews with the new Minister relative to the Quarantine and other impedements & expences to which our Flag is Subject, &c &c consequent on our not having as yet any Commercial arrangement with His Sicilian Majesty—find however that nothing effectual can be done ’till proper powers are Sent out from the United States.— Having Suggested So fully in my former Letters, the great advantages which would result to the United States & to our fellow Citizens from a well regulated Treaty of Commercial relations with His Sicilian Majesty, especially as our Commerce increases So rapidly with these States; and also from the Appointment of a person of competent Abilities, & knowledge of the Country as Agent of the United States, with competent powers to Superintend & Audit the Accounts of all the Consuls of the U.S. in Italy & Sicily, and of the Squadron of the U.S.; the advantages I possess from having visited all the principal places & my knowledge of the chief officers of the Govts. of those Countries; ’tis unnecessary to recapitulate or intrude further on the time of Mr Jefferson, but only Suggest Should Mr Jefferson consider me competent & confide to me the requisite powers, having means Sufficient, no circumstance could afford me greater pleasure than to be instrumental in promoting the interest & consequence of my Country & countrymen, in forming the Treaty wished with His Sicilian Majesty, or Superintending & Auditing the Accts. of the different Consuls, & Squadron as Suggested, & united with Mr Lear, the consul general for the Barbary States, in any measure for the Public good; without any pecuniary consideration other than my travelling expences &c reimbursed and, any Security even Fifty Thousand Dollars could be given & placed in the fund if required.— As to a Continental War. tho’ it will certainly be the result, as yet nothing certain is known as to the intended plan of Operation—Russia, & Sweden are making great preparations, & ’tis Supposed the Emperor of Germany is Silent from political Motives, ’till wel back’d by a Strong force; otherwise, were he to declare against France previous[ly] the French would March directly to his Capital.— However from the feelings of humanity I may dread the Calamaties of War, yet, Since the fates decree, it will add much to the wealth & 498
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population of the U.S. from the immense Emigrations from Europe, & the great advantage which will necessarily result to our Commerce, as almost all other Flags will be involved or doubted.— I Shall proceed in a few days for Sicily & make another tour of the Island and take care as far as depends on me, that all is in order & Report— Expecting Soon to have the gratification of hearing of the Re-Election of Mr Jefferson to the Presidency, knowing the superior good which will flow from his Administration to the United States, and Sincerely wishing him every possible health & happiness I have the honor to remain with the highest consideration & respect his obedt. Sert. J: Barnes Extract of Said Letter—dated Palermo Sepr. 24th 1804 “the Scene begins to be very interesting, & I have the pleasure to say, that all the Gun Boats & Bombards were Safely return’d with two prizes at Syracuse on the 15th Inst. with the John Adams, Laden with Stores &a The Constitution is Still off Tripoli with Commodore Baron & three more Frigates—; They have completely beaten the Turks, but unfortunately have Lost 6 brave officers & abot. 40 men— & I regret very much that Cap. Summers, Lieuts. Decatur, Wadsworth, Dursey & are amongst the Slain; The Neapolitans behaved well, & not one Lost—The Bashaw has offered to make Peace almost on any terms—& I am in expectation of good news from that quarter every day” No further particulars have Since arrived; [. . .][official] Acct. Mr Jefferson will of course recieve [. . .] have forwarded to Mr Mazzei & Mr Appleton, copies of the above extract. In the Letter I had the honor of transmitting by Sigr. Timponaro Vigano, I Suggested that I Should be better informed as to the real Character of that Gentln. Since, I have reced. a Letter from a friend [in] Milan on whom I can rely, who considers him of a Violent and imperious disposition, better Suited to a despotic, than a free Republican Clime; possessing only the wild Theory without the practice of real Republicanism—Like many of the Exotics of the New School of the Last War; that his Talents are rather Superficial—Our friend Mazzei however I found was highly pleased with him; in a great degree I believe from his being an Italian, nothwithstanding his great professions in favor of America—but our said friend Mazzei having been very poorly, seems lately to have injured his Mental faculties, at Least for the present, and his age is against him.—I must confess the truth of the observations of the celebrated English Poet Goldsmith, 499
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that Public faith & private confidence are Little known in Italy—To Mr Jefferson’s Superior knowledge of Marking & judgement I Leave the rest—This Letter goes Via Leghorn [by care] of a Friend who will forward it [. . .] [first] Vessel & who goes [. . .] courier. RC (DLC); torn, faint, and text obscured by tape; addressed: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr. President of the United States &c &c &c Washington”; postmarked Naples, 8 Oct., and Portsmouth, N.H., January [. . .]; franked; endorsed by TJ as received 28 Jan. 1805 and so recorded in SJL. my agent at palermo: Abraham Gibbs (ndbw, 5:47; Vol. 43:39). attack on tripoli: on 3 Aug., a U.S. Navy squadron under the command of Edward Preble commenced a series of attacks against Tripoli. The campaign continued for several weeks and culminated with a failed assault on 4 Sep. in which the ketch Intrepid exploded, killing its crew of 13, including its commander, Richard Somers, and Lieutenant Henry Wadsworth. Other casualties of the campaign included Lieutenant James Decatur, killed
on 3 Aug. while in command of a Sicilian gunboat, and Midshipman John Sword Dorsey and the majority of the crew of a captured Tripolitan gunboat that exploded during an attack on 7 Aug. Relieved from command by the arrival of Samuel Barron and the frigates President and Constellation on 10 Sep., Preble and the Constitution sailed for Malta on 13 Sep. Most of his squadron had left Tripoli for Syracuse on 7 Sep. Despite the vigor of the American campaign, it failed to bring Yusuf Qaramanli to terms (Christopher McKee, Edward Preble: A Naval Biography, 1761-1807 [Annapolis, Md., 1972], 251-308; asp, Naval Affairs, 1:133-8; ndbw, 4:293-310, 341-3; 5:23; Register, 15, 16, 51, 57-8). Barnes’s letter carried by Giuseppe Timpanari Viganò (vigano) never reached TJ. See Thomas Appleton to TJ, 2 Sep.
From Jonathan Cumings Sir [Balti]more Octr. 8th. 1804 [. . .] rich Silver Mine [. . .] the United States of America I wish your Hon[or to] write me the conditions of the priva[lege] you will give me in said mine [. . .] provided I purchase the land wh[ere]on sd. mine is, and make a discovery of it to you. I wish for an answer as soon as possible. as I am in Balte. on business and live some hundred miles out of said City if your proposals should answer my purpos I shall be at Lancaster in Pennsylvania before winter and will fetch you a sample of sd. mine. from Your (not Knowing whome I am) most Obt. Hume. Sert. Jonathan Cumings N.B. please to Direct your letter to Balte. to be left at P. office RC (DLC); torn; at foot of text: “Mr. Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ as received 10 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
500
Petition of Henny Day, with Jefferson’s Order To The President of the United States [on or before 8 Oct. 1804] The Petition of Henny Day humbly Shewith That your Petitioner was Convicted at July Term 1804 of keeping a disorderly House and fined five dollars and directed to be imprisoned thirty days and until the fine & fees should be paid. Your Petitioner represents that she has been kept constantly in prison from the date of the Sentence, & still is in prison being utterly unable to pay the fine & fees, and that she has no way of paying them. She therefore respectfully prays that you will be pleased to remit the same and direct her to be discharged and as in duty bound will pray October 8th 1804 The undersigned Judges of the Circuit Court of the district of Columbia, believing that the Petitioner is unable to Pay her fine and that the imprisonment she has undergone has been of sufficient duration for the punishment of her offence, do respectfully recommend a Compliance with her Petition W Kilty W. Cranch. [Order by TJ:] Oct. 14. 04. Let a pardon issue
Th: Jefferson
RC (DNA: RG 59, GPR); petition undated, in an unidentified hand; recommendation in William Kilty’s hand, signed by him and William Cranch. Recorded in SJL as received 13 Oct. 1804 with notation “petn for pardon. granted.”
TJ issued a pardon of Day’s fine and costs on 16 Oct. (FC in Lb in DNA: RG 59, GPR).
From William Fleischer Monsieur le Président Baltimore, 8 Octobre, 1804. Ne pouvant pas avoir l’avantage de remettre à Votre Excellence la lettre ci-jointe moi-même, à cause de mes occupations, je prends la liberté de l’envoyer en attendant, en me flattant que sous peu de temps je pourroi Vous témoigner mes respects en personne à féderal City. La lettre de Mr. faujas est bien ancienne; la raison en est, que mon voyage fut retardé, par des circonstances particulières, près d’un an. 501
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Mr. faujas m’a confié un de ses ouvrages dont je suppose qu’il n’est pas encore connu de Votre Excellence. S’il peut Vous convenir, il est à Votre disposition, le prix en est 18 Dollars. J’ai l’honneur d’être avec le plus profond respéct Votre Excellence très-humble & très-obéissant serviteur William Fleischer e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Mister President, Baltimore, 8 Oct. 1804 Because of my work, I do not have the pleasure of delivering the enclosed letter to your excellency, but I take the liberty of sending it, hoping and flattering myself that I will soon be able to pay my respects to you in person in the Federal City. Mr. Faujas’s letter is quite old. That is because my trip was delayed by almost a year because of special circumstances. Mr. Faujas entrusted me with one of his books, which I assume you have not yet seen. If it suits you, it is at your disposal. The price is 18 dollars. With deepest respect, your excellency, I have the honor of being your very humble and obedient servant. William Fleischer RC (DLC); below signature: “Bookseller, Saint-Patrick’s Row, No. 61”; endorsed by TJ as received 10 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Barthélemy Faujas de Saint-Fond to TJ, 20 Sep. 1803. William Fleischer (1767-1820) was a German-born bookseller, author, and proponent of the Enlightenment in Frankfurt am Main in the 1790s when he opened a lending library and reading room. His bookstore catalog, Annuaire de la librairie, was published in Paris in 1802 by Levrault Frères, for whom he worked in
France before moving to Baltimore. He continued to import scientific and other books for sale in the firm’s American store (Pamela E. Selwyn, Everyday Life in the German Book Trade: Friedrich Nicolai as Bookseller and Publisher in the Age of Enlightenment 1750-1810 [University Park, Pa., 2000], 161; Baltimore Telegraphe and Daily Advertiser, 24 Nov. 1804; Sowerby, No 4730; Vol. 41:397-8). un de ses ouvrages: the first volume of Faujas’s Essai de géologie, ou Mémoires pour servir a l’histoire naturelle du globe (Vol. 41:189n).
To George Jefferson Dear Sir Washington Oct. 8. 04 I recieved last night your favor of Oct. 4. covering my account. in that I find either an error of account or of paiment which perhaps may require to be looked after immediately. in the close of 1802. & beginning of 1803. I gave several draughts on you in favor of Joseph Moran and on the 8th. Feb. of that year a closing one for 98 D = £29–8 then supposed to be the balance. I soon after discovered that it was £16–8–9 too much & wrote to you immediately to stop the order: but it was too late as you informed me you had paid the order a day 502
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or two before the reciept of my letter: & accordingly you will find it charged in your accounts at the date of 1803. Mar. 23. ‘To cash paid his order to Joseph Moran pr. Wm. Irvine £29–8.’ I have never seen or heard of Moran since nor been able to get back any part of the £16–8–9 overpaid before. but in your account recieved last night I find the following article ‘1804. Sep. 17. to cash paid his order to Joseph Moran. £29–8’ perhaps the order was not taken in on the former occasion, has been presented a 2d time & paid after the former was forgotten. if so, the sooner we endeavor to get the money back the better. he is entirely bankrupt. if it is a mere error of account, our account will stand thus. 1804. Sep. 29. balance in favr. G. & J. pr. account rendd 203.11.8 remittance of Oct. 5. 600. D. £180.0.0. error of account Sep. 17. 29.8.0. 209.8.0 Balance in favor of Th:J. £5.16.4 early in the ensuing month I will make a remittance to cover the purchase of 1200. bushels of coal. I salute you with affectionate attachment. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. George Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ.
wrote to you immediately: see TJ to George Jefferson, 26 Mch. 1803. you informed me: see George Jefferson to TJ, 18 Apr. 1803.
From Lafayette La Grange
My dear friend 16th Vendemiaire 8th October 1804 My Letter of the 1st July Has Made You Expect a More particular Answer to Your important Communications—Yet, However impelled I was By friendship Gratitude, and American patriotism, it Has Become impossible for me to find a proper Opportunity—I Have Been detained at the Hot Springs of Mont d’or from Which I derived Much Benefit and the probability, in a Second pilgrimage, to Compleat My Cure—I afterwards went on to Chavaniac Where My Venerated Aunt, 83 Years old, is Blessedly living—But While in our Annual Visits She finds the Comfort, I Might Say the preservation, of Her Advanced Age, Her Sensibility is Such that our partings Must Be Very Cautiously Managed—My Wife Had insisted Upon Coming with me—Her Health Was Never Recovered from Her Sufferings, and particularly from the Malignancy of the Olmutz prison—I Have Been 503
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Obliged, for my journey Home to Attend Her Infirmities. She Had to Consult Her phisician at Mde de Tessé’s Country Seat, and I, to See Mr Livingston at Paris—Now, I Can Sit down to Give You a Confidential Answer—and I perceive I Have Already Mentionned the three private difficulties Which, Amidst So Many incitements to go over, Could Be Waved, at least as Motives of delay, were it Not More Congenial to Your feelings and Mine to put the Question at Once on its true Ground of public Utility. I Cannot However proceed farther Before I Have Expressed the Lively, Grateful Sense I Have of the Munificence of Congress and My Obligations to You—I feel a düe pride in Being the object of Such a Gift, from Such Hands—and While I Love to Aknowledge its double importance in itself and With Respect to My Situation, I Am Happy to think that to You, My Excellent friend, I owe a distinction So flattering, a Relief So Seasonable, a Source of pecuniary independance to Myself and future Wealth to My family the More Welcome, as Every Circumstance in it is particularly Honorable and pleasing— But While to Conceive and Convey a proper idea of My Sentiments I Affectionately trust Your Own Heart, While the Article of Business will be found, with My powers of Attorney, in My Letter to our friend Madisson, Let me Come to a point in Which, on Every Account, I Wish I Might Be More positive. Whatever Share in the promotion of public Good we May Have as Louisiana planters Shall of Course and in all Cases Be the Object of our Constant Endeavours and those of My family—Every One of us, from a Sense of duty and a Sympathy of feelings is Zealous to improve our property in the Manner You Will think the Most Appropriated to the prosperity of the Country, the General interest of the Union, and Your Own Liberal Views—But it Appears to you that My immediate presence Might Be of Service—I Even presume to Guess, from Your partiality in My Behalf, that Were I on the Spot, You Would Honor me With Special Marks of Your Confidence. I do not deny that Altho’ One Object of Jealousy, M. Laussat, Has Been Lately Removed, there May Be Uneasinesses of a Similar Nature, and those from Spain are Unquestionable, in Which I Might do Some Good. Nor will I Compare these Means to Serve the purpose With the More Speedy and Extensive Ones that Might be derived from an influence in Europe Which Now I Have Not—Much Less Suppose the Happily improbable Chance of a War with france where I Could No more take a Military part on One Side than I Would Have done on the other, Had the Unfortunate Occasion Offered—But I 504
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Readily Aknowledge that in our Going immediately to Louisiana, Settling ourselves on our Lands, and Attending your Commands, there is for me, and there alone perhaps Can Be Expected the Reunion of dignity, Wealth, and Safety—Nor Am I Less Animated than thirty years Ago By the idea to Walk Along With American Liberty in Her progress throughout the Continent, where to be Employed in Her Service, either as a Magistrate, a Missionary, or a Soldier, Would Render the End of My Life as Happy as the Beggining Has Been. Yet, My dear friend, You Have Also Been a Witness and a partaker in My Expectation of french and of Course of European Liberty—in America the Cause of Mankind is Won and insured—Nothing Can Stop, Change, or Sully its Course—Here it is Reckoned to Be Lost and Unretrievable—But to pronounce its doom to Myself, to Proclaim it, as it Were, By a final Expatriation is a Concession So Repugnant to My Sanguine Nature, that unless I am quite forced to it, I don’t know How the Ground, However disavantageous, much Less How the Hope, However faint it is Can Be totally Abandonned. This May Be Mere Weakness of Heart, But Amidst the Usurpations of Uncontroled power, and in Case of a fall, The probable dangers from Enraged Jacobinism, and the Now Still Greater ones from a Royal Aristocracy, More Absurd and No Less Sanguinary, I Will not despair of Modifications Less Unfavorable to the dignity and freedom of My Country Men—and While I Consider the prodigious influence of french doctrines on the future destinies of the World, I persuade Myself that I, a promoter of this Revolution, Must Not Aknowledge the impossibility to See it, in our days, Restored on its true Basis of Generous, Upright, And in one Word, of American Liberty. Now that My Heart Has Been Oppened to You, Will it Appear Either Unreasonable or Ungrateful to postpone My determination for a formal Leave of Europe, a total Establishment in America? Could not in the Mean While My Family difficulties, as I Stated them in the Beggining of this Letter Apologize for the delay, and My Louisiana Arrangements, directed By You and Mr Madisson, fulfill Some Good purpose—Such is the object of the Answer which as an old Citizen and Veteran of the United States as a New inhabitant of Louisiana, as a friend to Your principles and Your person, I Beg Leave to Sollicit— I Need Not Adding that Altho’ the primary Marks of your Confidence are disposed of When I Happen to Get there, Any Rank Whatsoever of Active Usefulness Would Be to me Highly Honorable—But as it is possible Several of the Members in Both Houses Have Connected the Gift With an idea of immediate Embarkation, I Would Not Send 505
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the powers, and of Course promote a Location so much depending on Choice, Before I Had an Opportunity to Lay Before You My Circumstances and to Submit them to Your friendly, Enlightened Consideration. Hitherto I Have kept Clear of public Employments, and Altho’ it Has Been one of the Motives of Gnl Moreau’s impeachment I am Loath to Meddle with an Administration So Contrary to my Constant, professed doctrine—the inclosed Short Speech Which My Country Men of Haute Loire thought proper to take down and publish will Show You that in departmental Cases I Availed Myself of polite pretences, While in offers of a More important Nature, I Answered the friends of Government and Bonaparte Himself that a Life of Retirement was My determined Choice—the Consulate for Life, where I declared that I Waited, to Give Him My Vote, Untill public Liberty Was Sufficiently garanteed Has put an End to My Communications With Him—How My Refusal Was Explained to the first Consul you Will See in the inclosed Copy Which, Altho’ You May Show it to Madisson and Some other Confidential friends, I Beg You not to Let out of Your Hands—in the imperial Business I Refrained from Voting— You See, as I once told Him, that I am Willing to be prudent, But not to Be an Apostate. The Last News I Had of Him, and probably from Him, Was that My Retirement He Wholly imputed to Enmmity towards Him and His Government—I Answered that as to Him I Was Sensible of Conferd and Offered obligations, But that to An Absolute Governement I Could not Be a friend—My Most Respected friends And At the Head of them M. Livingston Had Rather See Me in Some Shadow of public Life than in My Actual predicament—I know they are Right—But I feel an Almost insurmontable disgust, and as I Have not palliated the part I then should Act, I Hope I May Still Quietly Remain in My Rural Independance Gnl Moreau’s Mother in Law Whom I Saw the day Before Yesterday told me that Her daughter was Lately Brought to Bed of a little Girl at Cadiz, and that they intended to Embark, in the Spring, for the United States—I Repeated the Assurance that Moreau and His family Would Be Received By Every American, and particularly By the president, With the Affectionate Regard due to the Great and Good Man Whose deportation Wants Nothing to be Called an Ostracism, But to Have Been a popular Measure. The Deplorable fate of My friend Hamilton Has deeply Afflicted me—I am Sure that Whatever Have Been the differences of parties, You Have Ever Been Sensible of His Merits, and Now feel for His Loss. 506
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Adieu, my dear respected excellent friend, I am with every sentiment of affection, Gratitude & regard Your obliged loving friend Lafayette P.S. You already know the Obligations I am under to Mm parker an Behring for a Generous pecuniary Advance to Give me time to Ajust My Affairs—But of this and Other Matters of the kind I shall Say more in my Letter to Mr Madisson. RC (PHi); close and signature clipped, supplied from Dupl; endorsed by TJ as received 18 May 1805 and so recorded in SJL. Dupl (same); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Lafayette; at head of text: “Copy.” Tripl (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Lafayette. Enclosures: (1) Lafayette to the council of the département of Haute-Loire, 19 July 1800, explaining that his personal situation prevents his acceptance of a civil position; Lafayette retains heartfelt connections to the place of his birth and returns the esteem of his fellow citizens there; he recounts his efforts on behalf of the American republic, his commitment to the universal principles and constitutional monarchy established in the early phase of the French Revolution, and his subsequent exile and imprisonment; 23 years of turmoil in his personal fortunes necessitate his pursuit of private peace (excerpt printed in Mémoires, correspondance et manuscrits du Général Lafayette, publiés par sa famille, 6 vols. [Paris, 1837-38], 5:175-7). (2) Probably Lafayette to Napoleon Bonaparte, 20 May 1802, explaining his decision not to affirm the general’s lifetime consulship; Lafayette expresses his gratitude and admiration for
the first consul and adds that the coup of 18 brumaire saved the country; only a restoration of liberty would secure Bonaparte and France more glory; Lafayette doubts that the first consul would want the outcome of the revolution and all of the nation’s sufferings to be arbitrary government; although lifetime tenure for Bonaparte would comport with Lafayette’s sense of patriotism, longstanding moral and political principles prevent him from giving Bonaparte his suffrage, unless it rests on a foundation worthy of the nation and of the first consul (same, 199-200). my letter to our friend: Lafayette to Madison, 10 Oct., in which Lafayette enclosed a power of attorney authorizing Madison to select lands for him in Orleans Territory and suggested potential agents in New Orleans. Lafayette also mentioned that he had secured a loan of 150,000 livres on a mortgage to the lands from Daniel parker, a Paris-based associate of Baring Brothers. The loan was for two and a half years at five percent interest (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:144-8; Monroe, Papers, 3:509n).
Notes on a Cabinet Meeting 1804. Oct. 8. Present the 4. Secretaries. Yrujo’s and C. Pinckney’s communicns submitted. Cevallos’s 1st. condn as to giving time for commencement of Commissn. all agree we may fix a day with Yrujo not exceeding 6. months hence. say nothing which shall weaken our claims under the 6th. article, and repeat the explanation of the 4th. & 11th. article of the act of Congress already given him, and communicate the act of the President defining the district. 507
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a letter to be written to Yrujo on the impropriety of his publishing his letter to the Secy. of state. MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 131:22677); entirely in TJ’s hand; follows, on same sheet, Notes on a Cabinet Meeting of 26 May. yrujo’s and c. pinckney’s communicns: see Madison to TJ, 28 Aug., and List of Letters Received from Carlos Martínez de Irujo, 25 Sep.
act of the president: see Proclamation Establishing the District of Mobile, 30 May. No letter from either TJ or the State Department to Irujo regarding the impropriety of his publishing his 3 Oct. letter to Madison has been found. See Madison to TJ, 2 Oct.
From Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Museum Octr 8th. 1804. Several days I have been meditating to write and give you a description of Mr. Hawkins’s improvements on the Polygraph, but as you have returned to Washington, where I will send one as soon as it can be completed for the Secretary of States office, as one has been ordered some time past—I am not sorry for the delay I made—for while I was making some additional improvements to it, that from Mr. Hawkins arrived, which pleases me much—it is perfectly easy and correct, withall portable—being only two boards hinged to a Gallows, no Drawer to hold paper. Considerable pains must be taken to prevent the boards from casting in our Climate. We shall make each into two Pannels, and fineer them on both sides. Enclosed are the Pen-cases you desire, & I hope you will have no trouble to fit them. I must change the Machinery of your Polygraphs as soon as I can possibly do it. very probably I shall contrive some other business to induce to another journey into Maryland—I wish it—although I have an abundnace of important additions to make in the Museum, that ought not to be long posponed. Accept my Salutations and believe me your friend. C W Peale RC (DLC); at foot of text: “His Excellency Thos. Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. PoC (Lb in PPAmP: Peale-Sellers Papers). John Isaac hawkins’s improvements on the polygraph included a lighter
construction and no drawers. Peale described the Hawkins polygraph as “certainly a very perfect one,” praised some features such as his pen tubes, ink holders, and light supporting springs, and offered two other small improvements. Peale found the inclined plane of the older polygraphs to be cumbersome and made
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8 OCTOBER 1804 modifications so that the horizontal machinery would have a horizontal plane to move in. He further modified Hawkins’s model, using solid wood panels, brass pen bars, and brass or steel joints instead of wooden ones (Peale, Papers, v. 2, pt. 2:768-77; Silvio A. Bedini, Thomas Jefferson and His Copying Machines [Charlottesville, 1984], 91-3).
On 22 July, Peale promised Jacob Wagner that he would fulfill an order from the secretary of state’s office for a polygraph after he completed one for John Armstrong. If Madison preferred one with three pens or one “more like the Presidents,” Peale would make the exchange for “a small advance of price” (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:505).
From William Poole, Cyrus Newlin, and Robert Newlin Respected Friend, B Wine Mills 10 Mo. 8. 1804. James Brobson, a native and respectable citizen of this Town, desirous of obtaining the Office of Collector of the Port of Wilmington, should a removal of the present officer take place—We (at his request) express our opinion, that his mercantile habits—steady attention to business, and reputable connections, would prove a guaranty for his performance of the duties thereof with fidelity.— With much respect &ce Wm Poole Cyrus Newlin Robert Newlin RC (DLC); at head of text: “To Thomas Jefferson President of the United States.” Probably enclosed in James Brobson to TJ, 7 Nov. William Poole (ca. 1764-1829) and Cyrus Newlin (1747-1824) were millers and early members of the Abolition Society of Wilmington, Delaware. Poole’s mill was one of those along Brandywine Creek. Newlin owned a mill in Fishkill, New York, that his son, Robert Newlin (1770-1840), operated (J. M. Runk & Co., Biographical and Genealogical History of the State of Delaware, 2 vols. [Chambers-
burg, Pa., 1899], 1:434; Anna T. Lincoln, Wilmington, Delaware: Three Centuries under Four Flags 1609-1937 [Rutland, Vt., 1937], 131, 148; Frank Hasbrouck, ed., The History of Dutchess County, New York [Poughkeepsie, 1909], 319-20; Tunis Garrett Bergen, ed., Genealogies of the State of New York: A Record of the Achievements of Her People in the Making of a Commonwealth and the Founding of a Nation, 3 vols. [New York, 1915], 2:749; Wilmington Delaware Register, 30 May 1829). On earlier calls for the removal of Allen McLane as collector at Wilmington, see Vol. 37:542-4.
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From Henry Dearborn Sir War Department Octr. 9th. 1804 I have the honor to propose Doctor Oliver H Spencer for your approbation as Surgeon in the Army of the United States Accept Sir the Assurances of my high respect and Consideration FC (Lb in DNA, RG 107, LSP). After receiving his commission, Oliver Hatfield spencer served as an army sur-
geon until 20 June 1814 (Heitman, Dictionary, 911).
To John F. Mercer Dear Sir Washington Oct. 9. 04. Your favor of Sep. 28. in behalf of mr Harwood was duly recieved. the grounds on which one of the competitors stood, set aside of necessity all hesitation. mr Hall’s having been a member of the legislature, a Speaker of the Representatives, a member of the Executive council were evidences of the respect of the state towards him which our respect for the state could not neglect. you say you are forcibly led to say something on another subject, very near your heart, which you defer to another opportunity. I presume it to be on your political situation, and perhaps the degree in which it may bear on our friendship. in the first place I declare to you that I have never suffered political opinion to enter into the estimate of my private friendships; nor did I ever abdicate the society of a friend on that account till he had first withdrawn from mine. many have left me on that account. but with many I still preserve affectionate intercourse, only avoiding to speak on politics, as with a quaker or catholic I would avoid speaking on religion. but I do not apply this to you: for however confidently it has been affirmed I have not supposed that you have changed principles. what in fact is the difference of principle between the two parties here? the one desires to preserve an entire independance of the Executive & Legislative branches on each other, and the dependance of both on the same source, the free election of the people. the other party wishes to lessen the dependance of the Executive & of one branch of the legislature on the people, some by making them hold for life, some hereditary, and some even for giving the Executive an influence by patronage or corruption over the remaining popular branch, so as to reduce the elective franchise to it’s minimum. I shall not believe you gone over to the latter opinions till better evidence than I have had. 510
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yet were it the case I repeat my declaration that exclusive of political coincidence of opinion, I have found a sufficiency of other qualities in you, to value and cherish your friendship, unless you have seen nothing in me to esteem but my political opinions. I should be unhappy indeed were I not supported by a consciousness of other claims to regard than merely political opinion. the federal papers1 would deny me2 other claims; but they lie so wilfully on all other subjects that I consider them as lying wilfully on this also, and therefore have long ceased to feel the least uneasiness at any thing they say, except for the loss of the influence of the press which they have destroyed by prostituting it to falsehood. I have gone into this frank declaration that there may be no uncertainty or reserve between you and myself, and I salute you with affection & respect Th: Jefferson RC (CtY); at foot of first page: “J. F. Mercer esq.” PoC (DLC).
1 2
TJ here canceled “indeed.” TJ here canceled “all.”
To Thomas Mann Randolph Th:J. to TMR. Washington Oct. 9. 04. I have but a single moment to announce to you the death of Trist at N. Orleans. one letter brought us news of his extreme illness, and another, by the same post, of his death. the situation of his family is to be deplored indeed; and I am afraid they will expect what the public mind will not admit. God bless you all. RC (DLC); endorsed by Randolph. PoC (MHi); endorsed by TJ.
From Joseph Yznardi, Sr. Exmo. Señor Rota y Octubre 9. de 1804. My mas venerado Señor: habiendo, quando avisé á V.E. la llegada de la Fragata Essex, parado á Cadiz á asistir á su Capitan en lo que necesitare el mismo dia caý malo por resultad del Aire corrompido que por desgracia corre en dha Ciudad; habiendo dado á la Vela sin haber visto al capitan, aunque el Vice consul le proveyó de quanto fué necesario; y despues vine á esta casa de campo mia a restablecerme en ocasion que se há cortado toda correspondencia entre dicha Ciudad y los Pueblos inmediatos sin recurso de comunicacion mas que la del correo, por cuyo medio despacho todas los negocios de oficio sin Demora con la misma actividad de Siempre, asegurando á V.E. con la 511
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ingenuidad propia de mi verdad que ningun consulado de los Estados Unidos está mejor desempeñado ni tiene mejor Vice Consul ni agente que yo. A pezar de ello hé llegado á entender se murmura la conducta de este y solicita se nombre á un Vice Consul por V.E. bajo el pretexto de que yo podré desempeñarlo poco tiempo tanto por la delicadeza de mi Salud como por lo poco que me produce, respecto el desinterez e intregridad con que le manejo. Siendo ciertas las solicitudes que nuestro Ministro en Madrid se empeña á favor de un tal Mr. Made de Philadelphia que se halla en Cadiz hace dias, debo en desempeño de mi deber representar á V.E. que ninguno podrá igualar á Antonio Terry mi actual Vice Consul tanto porque lo es desde que yo sirvo, como porque de crear un Vice Consul privando al Consul propietario de la prerogrativa de su Exequator seria fomentar una discordia entre el uno y el otro sin que el oficio estubiere bien servido, y como que pienso con el permiso y Gracia de V.E. continuar como lo tengo asy dicho antes, todo el tiempo de su feliz administracion en la qual creo y espero con Justicia una digna réeleccion, espero no habrá novedad respecto á mi ni á mi Vice Consul; pero si en V.E. hubiese alguna inclinacion para que recaiga en qualesquiera persona de su Agrado, tendrá la bondad de prevenirmelo, pues en este caso yo le admitiré gustoso y nombrané. Despues de mi ultima venida á esta el Epidemia en Cadiz há seguido en Aumento habiendo dia que los muertos pasaren de 100. y de 2. mil los ya Sepultados entre ellos muchas personas conocidas y de caracter y en Malaga cerca de 6. mil, siguiendo la Enfermedad haciendo sus extragos; pues se le agrega á la Epidemia que son calenturas biliosas con disolucion de la Sangre, el no haber llovido desde Mayo y ultimo; y reynar vientos Ferrales y Estes con inmensas calores agregandosele Suma escasez de Viveres y mortandad de Ganados, de manera que es una plaga general que aflige mucho á los nacionales, y toda la Andalucia se vá picando; en la que los principales Pueblos empiezan á ser infestados, pero sobre todo Gibraltar padece principios bajo los mismos sintomas muriendo 100. diarios con tanta malignidad que duran pocas horas despues de atacados motivo porque se sospecha sea pestilente el contagio sin atribuirse los origenes á causas ciertas conocidas. Como dixe á V.E. en mi ultima de haber Escrito á Mr. Pinckney ofreciendole mis Servicios con motivo de su despedida de la Corte, me respondió no ser necesarios mediante esperan una persona nombrada de oficio con las autoridades de V.E. que yo celebraré sea capaz de calmar la fermentacion de los disgustos, con aquella Sinceridad y 512
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afecto que Siempre tube á ese Gobierno y particularmente á V.E. por quien pido á Dios Guarde su importante vida Muchos años. Exmo. Señor BLM de V.E su Obedte Ser Josef Yznardy e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Most Excellent Sir, Rota, 9 Oct. 1804 My most venerated sir: Having stopped in Cadiz, when I informed your excellency of the arrival of the frigate Essex, to assist its captain in whatever he needed, that same day I fell ill on account of the corrupted air that by misfortune runs in that city. Having set sail without seeing the captain, though the vice consul provided him with what he needed, I came afterward to this country house of mine to recuperate. Given that all communications have ceased between that city and the nearby towns, without recourse to any form of communication more than the mail, through this means I dispatch all the business without delay at the same rate as always, assuring your excellency with the candor that characterizes my truthfulness that no consulate of the United States is better attended, nor does any consulate have a better vice consul or agent than I have. Regardless of this, it has come to my understanding that there are rumors about my conduct, and that your excellency solicits the appointing of another vice consul under the pretext that I will not be able to carry out my duties, given the delicate state of my health and how little the position earns me, due to the disinterest and integrity with which I administer it. If the concerns are true that our minister in Madrid insists in favor of a Mr. Meade of Philadelphia who has been in Cadiz for days, I must in fulfillment of my duty to represent your excellency say that no one could equal Anthony Terry, my current vice consul, as much because he has been vice consul since I began serving; also because appointing a vice consul deprives the consul of the prerogative of his exequatur, and would foment discord between one and the other without properly attending to the job; and since I intend with the permission and grace of your excellency to continue as I have done, as I have said before, throughout the entire course of your happy administration, in which I believe and hope for a deserved reelection, I hope there will be no novelties regarding me or my vice consul. Yet if in your excellency there is any inclination for this post to fall to any person of your liking, you will have the kindness of warning me, and in that case I will happily admit and appoint him. Since my last letter, the epidemic is coming here. In Cadiz it has continued to rise, there being days that the dead exceed 100, and the 2,000 of them already buried include many well-known people of character. In Malaga, with close to 6,000 afflicted, the disease continues to wreak havoc; because in addition to the epidemic, which consists of bilious sores with dissolution of blood, it has not rained since May, and lastly, fierce eastern winds with great heat add to the great scarcity of supplies and the death of livestock; so it is a general plague that greatly afflicts the people. All of Andalucía is becoming infected, in that the main towns are starting to be infested. Most of all Gibraltar suffers the beginning of it under the same symptoms, almost 100 a day dying with so much malignity that they last but a few hours after being
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9 OCTOBER 1804 attacked. For this reason it is suspected that the contagion is pestilent without attributing the origins to certain known causes. As I said to your excellency in my last letter, having written to Mr. Pinckney offering my services with regard to his farewell in the court, he answered me that this was not necessary, as they expected a person appointed to his charge with the authority of your excellency, which I hope will be able to calm the fermentation of quarreling. With the sincerity and affection that I always have had toward that government and particularly to your excellency, for whom I pray to God to safeguard your important life for many years, most excellent sir, your obedient servant kisses the hand of your excellency. Josef Yznardy RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, closing and signature by Yznardi; at foot of text: “Exmo. Sor. Dn. Thomas Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ as a letter of 3 Oct. received 30 Nov. and so recorded in SJL with notation “S.” Dupl (same); endorsed by TJ as received 1 Feb. 1805 and “Duplic.”
quando avisé á v.e.: no such communication has been found, nor was one recorded in SJL. The U.S. frigate Essex was at Cadiz on 19 and 20 Sep. (ndbw, 5:11, 56).
From Justus Erich Bollmann Sir, Newyork October 10th. 1804 My Friend near the Frontier of Hungary knowing that severe Cold is sometimes injurious to the Wines of that Country did not like to forward the Parcell ordered by Your Excellency untill last Spring, and the Difficulties attending at present the Intercourse with Hamburg have still further delayed its arrival in this Country. The Wines have however now safely come to Hand in 24 Boxes, containing as follows 20 Boxes of One Dozen Bottles each, is 240 Bottles of the Wine of Your Choice. 3 Boxes of One Dozen each, is 36 Bottles Tokay. 1 Box with 12 Bottles of various Sorts of Hungary Wines of superior Quality, such as come under the Description of Vins de liqueur. The whole Invoice, charging for myself only the usual Commission of 5 pr. Ct, amounts to $578.08 as will appear from the Calculation which I inclose for Your Information. A Bottle of the Wine contained in the first 20 Boxes will cost $1.70; of the Tokay $3.31; and of the other Wines $4.36 The Wines though purchased on the lowest Terms, having been paid for before they were shipped, are somewhat dearer than I could have wished, which arises partly from the heavy Expences attending 514
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the Transport of Goods by land from Hamburg to Toenningen, and partly from the very unfavourable Exchange on Hamburg which is at present 6 pr. Ct above par. You will please to observe however that the Bottles contain 1⅔ Quarts each, and that the Wine which costs $1.70 pr. Bottle is therefore cheaper than Claret at $1 pr. Bottle, and, being entirely without Sediment, has moreover the Advantage of giving no Waste whilst at the same Time it will probably be more agreable to Your Excellency’s Taste. The 4 Boxes which are higher priced, being a Curiosity in this Country and excellent of their kind I should be glad and feel myself much obliged to You if You would be pleased to take them with the Rest. If it should however be inconvenient I must be satisfied that You take from the Invoice only what is agreable to Your Order. The House which supplies me with these Wines—Johan Carl Ludwig & Son in Mittelwalde in the County of Glatz—have been neglectful in not replying to some of Your particular Questions relative to the precise Place of the Growth of these Wines and the Name they are designated by in Hungary, but I shall repeat my Inquiries on those Points. The 24 Boxes now received are at Philadelphia, and I can occasion them either to be handed over to Your Agent there or to be shipped to Washington as may be most agreable to You. I have myself with my Children lived for some Time past at a little Retreat on long Island near Newyork and shall receive Your Excellency’s Reply if directed to me to the latter Place. I remain with great Respect Your Excellency’s most obt. St. J. Erich Bollmann RC (MHi); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 14 Oct.; recorded in SJL as received 13 Oct. Enclosure not found.
parcell ordered by your excellency: Vol. 39:462, 593; Vol. 40:4, 124-5.
From William Lee Sir/ American Consulate Bordeaux October 10th. 1804 I take the liberty to enclose you the declarations of two Gentlemen of veracity, which I hope will tend to expose a part of that system of intrigue which, has been carried on against me from the first moment you honoured me with the appointment to this Consulate. The object of these machinations is I understand, to effect a change in this office, in favor of a Mr Cook, or a Mr Morton, who are established 515
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in business in this City: The former is the son of a lawyer of Baltimore and the other brother to a merchant of the same place. That these young men should wish the appointment is very natural, and that their friends, should use every means in their power to forward their views, is not surprising to me who have long been persecuted by their Sect, but that such men as Genl. Smith, and Colo. Stricker, should unite their efforts with the enemies of the Government to injure an honest officer, and his family, is what I cannot prevail on myself to believe, though the information comes to me through an unquestionable channel.— You may be assured Sir, that in the discharge of the duties of my office, I have been guided by the strict principles of Justice, and the Laws of the United States; personal considerations have never influenced me, and my highest ambition has been to merit the confidence of my Government, and the esteem of its supporters.— Respecting the unfortunate failure of my house of Perrot & Lee, of which so much has been said in the United States by Mr Cook, and other travelling agents, of mercantile establishments in this City, permit me to say, that my conduct therein has merited, and received, the approbation of all good men, and that in my arrangements with the creditors, of that concern, they appeared to strive who should render me the greatest service. They knew how dreadfully I had been deceived by my partner during an illness of seventeen months, & therefore one and all espoused my cause.— Enclosed I have the honor to transmit you a statement of the affairs of that unfortunate concern, and a copy of the discharge from the creditors which has been signed by three quarters of them in number and amount, the proportion the Bankrupt Laws of this Country require. This Instrument only wants the confirmation of the Tribunal of Commerce which will be had as soon as the Vintage vacance is over. I shall then abandon to the creditors, all my claim to the property of the house, now in the hands of a third person, and make them such further, and immediate compensation, as they shall judge equal to the full amount of the sums I owe them, as my pride will not suffer it to be said that the Consul, of the United States, for this port paid but 40 pCt of his debts; which amounted originally to upwards of a million of francs, and by my exertions have been reduced to only fs. 198,167.13.c— Thus you will see Sir, that notwithstanding any representations which may have reached you to the contrary, I am unembarrassed in my private affairs. In my public ones the Government owe me a few 516
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hundred livres, and I have in the hands of my Banker 7,000 francs the amount of a wreck sold on account of Messrs. Porter & King of Kennebeck which, will be paid the instant their agents are properly impowered to receive it, or can agree among themselves, as it appears they have transferred the same debt, to two different houses.— Mr. Hawkins the bearer of this having acted for some time as Secretary of Legation at Paris is well acquainted with all the difficulties I have laboured under here, and particularly with my conduct in the case of the Joseph & Phoebe which has been the subject of great animadversion in Bordeaux, Paris, & London. Should you think proper to question him on this business, I am convinced he will be able to give much useful information.— Nothing Sir, but an unjust attack on my public character, and my duty to an interesting growing family, and several dependant near relations whom better times led me to succor, could have induced me thus to intrude on your important moments. I repose on your justice feeling persuaded Sir, that you will not condemn me without a hearing, & that if the complaints said to be lodged against me in the Secretary of States office, appear of so serious a nature as to demand attention that, you will do me the honor to order the Minister at Paris to investigate my conduct.— With the most profound Veneration, I have Sir the honor to remain, Your obliged and obedient Wm Lee RC (DLC); at head of text: “dupta.” and “To the President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 29 Dec. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: affidavit of William S. Brooks, Bordeaux, 9 Oct., on his conversation with Captain William Darnell of the brig Henrietta of Baltimore regarding information that Colonel John Stricker and other influential men of Baltimore were acting to replace William Lee as commercial agent at Bordeaux with one of their friends (RC in MHi). Other enclosures not found. In a letter of 20 May to Madison, Abraham Venable recommended John A. morton as commercial agent at Bordeaux, Le Havre, or Antwerp, singling out the first in particular because of the failure of Lee’s commission house (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Morton John A. to be Consul Bordeaux. Havre. Antwerp. Venables lre to mr Mad.”).
Morton solicited the Bordeaux post in a letter of 10 May to Samuel Smith, who recommended him to TJ in a letter of 6 Sep., received 11 Sep., but not found (same, 8:464-6; Appendix iv). In 1803, Lee sold off the salvaged items from a wrecked ship belonging to porter & king, merchants of Bath, Massachusetts. Having complied with a request by the firm to reserve the funds for Hannay & Logan of Liverpool, Lee subsequently lodged the proceeds with his banker, when Porter & King demanded he pay an associate from Boston and denied having requested that he answer a call on the funds from the Liverpool firm (Trs in DNA: RG 59, CD, Bordeaux, enclosed in Lee to Madison, 12 May; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:211-13). case of the joseph & phoebe: Lee was under fire from American merchants for not protecting sufficiently an American ship that had sailed with a cargo of
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10 OCTOBER 1804 tobacco from Petersburg to Bordeaux via Cowes, England. French customs officials near Bordeaux seized the ship after receiving information that the original cargo had been sold in England. Rumors circu-
lated that Lee had actually connived with French officials in exchange for a percentage of the prize (same, 7:33-4, 451; 8:41113, 458-9).
From George Jefferson Dear Sir Richmond 11th. Octr. 1804 I am duly favor’d with yours of the 8th. I find that we paid as you state, to W. Irvine, on the 23d. of March 1803, for your order in favor of Joseph Moran, $:98—. Upon referring to your letter of the 8th. of February preceding, I find, that after advising us of several drafts you had made on us (among the number one in favor of Jos. Moran for $:98—) you say “as the persons to whom the above monies are payable, have been before notified they would be lodged with you for them, it is possible they may apply before my orders inclosed to them to day shall reach them. in that case I wish them to receive the money, on their promising to send you in the order when they shall receive it.”—In consequence of this the amount was paid to Irvine without his producing the order.—and that circumstance being forgotten, it was paid again Sir the 17th. ultimo, to a person of the name of John Miller—of this person we know nothing, and probably shall never hear of him again. or indeed if we were, we suppose it would be of no avail. The amount therefore I conclude, we must certainly lose. I mean G. & J., who undoubtedly ought to lose it. the circumstances are merely mentioned by way of explanation for your being twice charged with the same sum. Moran I think should have been satisfied with getting the £16.8.9 too much—without again receiving the whole sum. his succeeding however in the first instance, was probably the cause of the second attempt. I am Dear Sir Yr. Very humble servt. Geo. Jefferson RC (MHi); at foot of text: “Thos. Jefferson esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 14 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
you say: TJ’s retained copy of his letter of 8 Feb. does not contain the passage quoted by George Jefferson (see Vol. 39:480-1).
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From Benjamin H. Latrobe Sir, Octr. 11h. 1804. I am just now arrived in the city, and will wait upon you as soon as I can make myself acquainted with the exact state of the public Works. I left Washington on the 30th. of June last. On the 12th. of July, Mrs. Latrobe’s mother died suddenly. On the 17th she was brought to bed of a daughter and continued so unwell for a month that it was improper to communicate to her the loss she had suffered.—After visiting her father, I left Philadelphia to come hither the latter end of August, but during my absence from the Canal of the Chesapeake & Delaware, circumstances had arisen which detained me at Newcastle till the 16th. Septr when I again set off in the Mail taking with me my son Henry, who is a scholar at the French Academy at Baltimore. Before we reached the Susquehannah he was so ill that I was obliged to take him to the house of a friend where in a few days his life was despaired of. I have remained with him till his mother who was at her father’s could come down to him & he was declared out of danger.— Altho’ I have by correspondence & drawings endeavored to do my duty,—the peculiar and distressing occurences that have kept me from Washington, appear sufficient from the possibility of similar detentions to deprive me of your confidence in my being a fit person to be entrusted with the duties assigned to me.—With these impressions upon my mind, I hope you will forgive my having detailed to you personal inconveniences that ought not perhaps to weigh against any public injury that has been sustained. With the sincerest desire rather to lose every thing than your good opinion I am most respectfully Your hble servant B H Latrobe RC (DLC); addressed: “The President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
french academy at baltimore: Saint Mary’s Academy, to which Latrobe sent all of his sons (Latrobe, Correspondence, 1:462n).
To James Oldham Sir Washington Oct. 11. 04. I have duly recieved your’s of the 7th. and am sorry for your disappointment at Richmond. at this place what little private building is going on is engaged, and the public (wooden part) will wait for funds till next spring. the work which I could put into your hands at once, is 519
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a pair folding doors, mahogany, for partition between the Hall & Parlour, ⎧ 2. pair Mahogany sashes (lights 12. by 18) for windows of 2. square ⎪ ⎪ rooms looking into N.E. portico 7. ⎨ ⎪ 1. sash do. for North Octagon bedroom to supply the one ⎪ ⎩ demolished. 18. 4. semicircular sashes, pine, for the 4. pediments outside ⎫ 22. 5. semicircular do. for the South Piazza as a Greenhouse ⎬ ⎭ 21. 5. pr square do. pine 150. about 30. panneled doors of pine. the pannels flat on both sides. 230. D. supposing Richmond still the best place to set up, would not this job they wd. give you an opportunity of shewing there your stile of working, and cost by give you time to get into employment? I have no objection to the havEvans’s ing my doors made there, for I question if they would weigh much book of above 100. to 150 each. I had no intention that you should have been prices. out of business on such short notice; and therefore shall consider your wages going on till you have a reasonable time to get into employ. Mr. Madison would have been very glad to have employed you: but he is not at all in readiness yet. he has a very wealthy brother in law, mr Macon, who is building a very large house near him. whether he wants workmen or not he does not know. but I think it very possible. he is not skilled in the style of work, yet he is a man who I am sure would wish for good work, if he understood directing it. my best wishes for your health & success. Th: Jefferson 12.
PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. Oldham”; endorsed by TJ. TJ’s calculations came from John evans’s The Builder’s Universal Price Book (Washington, D.C., 1804), 15-39.
large house: Somerset, the home of Thomas Macon and Sarah Catlett Madison Macon, was near Montpelier (Madison, Papers, Pres. Ser., 1:252n).
From Thomas Mann Randolph Dear Sir, Edgehill October 11. 1804. I am requested by Mr. Peachy Gilmer to communicate to you the melancholy news of the death of H. B. Trist of the yellow fever on the 29th. Augt. at New Orleans. I do what he desires though I make no doubt you have before this time heard it from the government there. He learned it by a letter from Jno M. Gelston who observes that he writes because Willm. Brown is so closely & constantly employed in executing the duties of the Collector that he could not bestow one minute for giving the dismal intelligence. Mr. G. says that his unhappy 520
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wife acted like a heroine on the occasion. It is what all who know her would have counted on. No doubt her reliance on her brother William to keep herself and her two infants above misery contributed to support her under the shock. The prospect of a good maturity in her boys was the only source of comfort left open to her and that would have been choked completely by the bad pecuniary circumstances in which her husband died had not her brother Wm. been alive, been near her, and been what he is. His good understanding, his industrious habits, his virtues, his sound political principles will I hope insure him employment honorable and sufficiently lucrative to give him the power of gratifying what he has shewn allways to be the first wish of his heart, his desire of providing well for his mother and sisters. I have been assured that his amiable temper and manners quickly acquired for him the affections of all at New Orleans who became acquainted with him. His tenderness for his female connexions gave him the love while the mind he displayed procured him the esteem of all who fell in his company while in Albemarle. The family here is well except Mary who has been really sick & is still somewhat indisposed with that Diarrhea often accompanying dentition. The arrival of a Servant this moment from Eppington enables me to inform you all was well there yesterday morning. Craven & Lillie at last have come to an open rupture: a desperate battle took place between them 4 days since: it terminated without serious injury to either but a bruising and languor to both which will keep them apart a long time I think. Both claim the victory and both look like defeat. The cause I could not give now, perhaps, without injuring one or the other as I have heard nothing yet but from themselves. It is certain however that some injury done or supposed to be done to some of your 4 footed1 property which had strayed into Cravens farm was the immediate reason for the quarrel. Lillie has the fidelity of a Spaniel with the courage of a Bull dog. Craven surely does often forget not only the maxims of prudence & the lowest duties of society but even common justice in his zeal for his own interests. With most sincere attachment yr. &c. Th: M. Randolph RC (MHi: Coolidge Collection); addressed: “Thomas Jefferson Pres: U.S. Washington City”; franked and postmarked; endorsed by TJ as received 14 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
craven & lillie: tenant farmer John H. Craven and TJ’s Monticello overseer, Gabriel Lilly (Vol. 31:497; Vol. 32:110). 1 Preceding
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word and digit interlined.
To Carlos IV, King of Spain Great and Good Friend, Charles Pinckney who for some time past has resided with you as the Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States, having desired to return to America, we have yielded to his request. He will accordingly take his leave of you, embracing that occasion to assure you of our friendship and sincere desire to preserve and strengthen the harmony and good understanding so happily subsisting between the two nations, and which will be further manifested by his Successor. We are persuaded that he will do this in the manner most expressive of these sentiments and of the respect and sincerity with which they are offered. We pray God to keep you Great and Good Friend under his holy protection. Written at the City of Washington the Twelfth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and four. Th: Jefferson FC (DNA: RG 59, Credences); in a clerk’s hand; at foot of text: “To our Great and Good Friend His Catholic Majesty”; below signature: “By the President” and “James Madison Secretary of State.” desired to return: Madison acceded to Pinckney’s request in a letter of
26 Oct., in which he likely enclosed this letter of recall. The communication, however, arrived after Pinckney had begun working with James Monroe on negotiations with Spain, and Pinckney did not officially take his leave until October 1805 (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:225-7; 9:428-9; 10:360-1).
From Pierre Chouteau Monsieur St. Louis le 12. 8bre. 1804 J’ay seulement l’honneur de vous donner avis de mon arrivée a St. Louis qui a été le 3, de ce mois, avec les Ozages—Jouissant Tous d’une parfaitte santé. Il ne nous est rien arrivé d’extraordinaire pendant le cours de notre voyage qui a été, sous tous les rapports, des plus heureux. Je me dispose dans ce moment de rendre les Ozages a leur village, je suis persuadé que le souvenir des bienfaits sans nombre qu’ils ont reçu du gouvernement et géneralement dans les états Unis, ne seffacera jamais de leurs memoires et qu’ils en transmetteront la rélation jusqu’à leur posterité la plus reculée, ainsi que de l’importance pour eux a être ponctuels a remplir le traitté passé entre les Etats Unis et la nation Ozages. 522
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Des troubles survenus dernierement entre ce district et la nation Sakes, m’empechent pour le moment de vous rendre un compte général de mon Voyage J’aurai l’honneur de vous l’envoyer par le premier Courier Soyez persuadé, monsieur, que mon plus grand desir est de remplir avec exactitude les devoirs de ma mission etant assuré que c’est le plus sur moyen de me conserver votre estime J’ay l’honneur dêtre avec le profond respect Monsieur Votre tres heumble et trés obeissant serviteur Pre. Chouteau e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Sir, St. Louis, 12 Oct. 1804 This is simply to inform you of my arrival in St. Louis on the 3d of this month, with all the Osages in perfect health. Nothing exceptional happened during our trip, which was favorable in all ways. I am about to return the Osages to their village. I am sure they will never forget the memory of the innumerable benefits they received from the government and, generally, from the United States. They will transmit the account to their furthest posterity, along with the importance of being scrupulous in respecting the agreement between the United States and the Osage nation. Troubles which have arisen recently between this region and the Sac nation prevent me from giving you a general account of my trip right now, but I shall have the honor of sending it with the first courier. Be assured, Sir, that my primary goal is to fulfill all the responsibilities of my mission, knowing that this is the surest way to preserve your esteem. With deepest respect, Sir, I have the honor of being your very humble and obedient servant. Pre. Chouteau RC (DLC); at head of text: “M. Ts. Jefferson President des Etats Unis”; endorsed by TJ as received 16 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Born in New Orleans, Jean Pierre Chouteau (1758-1849) moved as a young child to St. Louis, which his father, Pierre Laclède, had just founded. From his adolescence, Chouteau spent much time living among the Osages, and along with his half-brother Auguste, he emerged as one of the leaders of the area fur trade. Strong relations with Spanish authorities helped the Chouteaus acquire a monopoly on trade with the Osages, which they lost to a competitor in 1802. Quickly ingratiating themselves with American representatives after the Louisiana Purchase, the brothers regained trading privileges with the Osages, and TJ named Pierre the U.S. Indian agent for upper Louisiana during
Chouteau’s visit to Washington in July 1804. His agency was limited to the Osages in 1807. Despite attempts to dissolve his commission, Chouteau continued to aid U.S. negotiations with various Indian nations. In 1809, he helped form the Missouri Fur Company, which sought unsuccessfully to assume control of trade as far as the Pacific Northwest. He continued to trade more locally before retiring to St. Louis in 1820 (anb; Terr. Papers, 14:107-8, 290-3, 343-8; William E. Foley and C. David Rice, The First Chouteaus: River Barons of Early St. Louis [Urbana, Ill., 1983], 3, 5-7, 20-1, 60-2, 127-8; William Clark and Meriwether Lewis to TJ, 18 May; TJ to White Hair and Others, 12 July). troubles: Chouteau likely referred to the killing by Sac warriors of three white settlers on the Cuivre River in September. The following month, a Sac delegation,
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12 OCTOBER 1804 worried about the American response, traveled to St. Louis and surrendered one of the purported killers to American authorities. They subsequently signed a peace treaty, dated 3 Nov., in which they ceded much of the land occupied by the
Sac and Fox nations (Terr. Papers, 13: 62-4, 76-7; asp, Indian Affairs, 1:693-5; Robert M. Owens, Mr. Jefferson’s Hammer: William Henry Harrison and the Origins of American Indian Policy [Norman, Okla., 2007], 87-90).
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir 12th Octer. 1804 The enclosed, which you will have the goodness to return, show the enormous balance still due by Kentucky especially for the indirect taxes and the almost impossibility of recovering any thing even from delinquent and criminal collectors. I would not have been astonished if in the attempt to recover those old accumulated arrears of an unpopular and expired tax, popular feeling had operated in favour of the distillers who had not yet paid: but that such an effect should have been produced in the case of unprincipled officers who had collected the money is incomprehensible; and Judge Innis must be either incapable or something worse; for in the manner in which the statutes are framed, the fate of suits against collectors depends almost exclusively on the court. Whatever can be done shall be done, and we will try the appeal in Arthur’s case at the next session of the Supreme Court. But the point on which at present I wish to obtain your opinion is the continuance of Arthur in office by the Supervisor. His reasons you will see by his letter: to me they appear inconclusive; and after such glaring proofs of his villainy it seems to me that, let the effect of the removal or the suit be what it will, the Supervisor should be directed in your name to have him removed immediately. This direction is however an unusual step and is submitted to your better judgment. With great respect Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); addressed: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 12 Oct. and “Kentucky taxes.” Enclosures not found. arthur’s case: in June 1803, federal revenue collector John Arthur was found to be more than $16,000 in arrears to the United States. Suits against Arthur and his sureties dragged on in federal courts for years and continued even after his death (Mary K. Bonsteel Tachau, Federal
Courts in the Early Republic: Kentucky 1789-1816 [Princeton, 1978], 123; William Cranch, Reports of Cases Argued and Adjudged in the Supreme Court of the United States, 1801-1815, 9 vols. [Washington, D.C., 1804-17], 5:257-61; 7:5725; William P. Mason, Reports of Cases Argued and Determined in the Circuit Court of the United States, for the First Circuit, 5 vols. [Boston, 1819-31], 5:87-94). supervisor: James Morrison (Vol. 40:654).
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From George Jefferson Dear Sir Richmond 12th. Octr. 1804. I inclose you Capt. Wingets receipt for 1100 bushels of Coal, being so near the quantity you want, that we thought it best not to wait for a Vessel that would carry exactly what you require. Heth & N. inform me it is taken away from the yard as fast as they can get it down—which causes that now sent to be not so large as usual; as they have but very little out of which to choose. I am Dear Sir Your Very humble servt. Geo. Jefferson RC (MHi); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 16 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found.
heth & n.: Henry Heth and Andrew Nicolson, who operated a coal business in Manchester, Virginia (Richmond Enquirer, 28 Sep. 1810; Vol. 35:233n).
To James Madison Oct. 12. 04.
Nathaniel Ewing of Pensylvania to be Reciever of public monies at Vincennes. Th:J. RC (ViU); addressed: “The Secretary of State”; written on verso of an address sheet in John Barnes’s hand: “The President, of the United States.” PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “Ewing.”
Nathaniel ewing had been recommended to Gallatin by John Badollet, the recently appointed register of the land office at Vincennes (Gayle Thornbrough, ed., The Correspondence of John Badollet and Albert Gallatin: 1804-1836 [Indianapolis, 1963], 27, 30, 32-3; Vol. 43:680).
To William Fleischer Sir Washington Oct. 13. 04 I duly recieved your favor of the 8th. and in that the letter of Monsr. Faujas de St. Fond, from whom whatever comes is acceptable. I recieved safely also the work of his which you were so kind as to send, & for which I send you by mr Carpenter 1 the price 18. dollars; of which 15. are inclosed, & three metallic he will deliver, there being no paper of so small a denomination. Should you have any other works, new and good, among your collection, I would thank you to take the trouble of noting to me their title and price, my own collection furnishing most things old, and my time not permitting me to read but 525
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what is good. The title will enable me to judge whether the subject interests me. Accept my salutations & respects. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Monsr. Fleischer.” Notation in SJL: “18. D.”; endorsed by TJ. send you by mr carpenter: in his financial memoranda at 13 Oct., TJ recorded sending $18 “by Mr. Carpenter” to
Philippe Reibelt for books (mb, 2:1138). On 15 Oct. in Baltimore, Fleischer signed a receipt for payment “for the account of the President Jefferson” (MS in DLC; endorsed by TJ). 1
Preceding three words interlined.
To Albert Gallatin Th:J. to mr Gallatin Oct. 13. 04. The case of the Kentucky collection would be intolerable were we not bound to tolerate not only the law but the defects of the law, & the partialities of jurors in it’s execution. whether the law is defective will be seen on the appeal. what are the subtleties by which the lawyers contrive delays is not sufficiently stated to judge the judge; but he is an honest man, and of reading & understanding in his profession. the impudence of Arthur excites just indignation, but where it is desireable that a principle should be brought to decision, would it not be better to let it come on purely & unembarrassed by new objections which his removal would furnish and especially as it is affirmed we could not get another collector, and consequently should lose what is uncollected as much in this way as by it’s paiment to Arthur. I should have supposed that mr Morrison might have found means of weaning good individuals without lessening Arthur’s responsibility but as to these individuals. still I say all this for your consideration, being too much unacquainted with the case to assist your judgment in deciding on it. health & respect PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “Kentucky collection.”
case of the kentucky collection: Gallatin to TJ, 12 Oct. judge: Harry Innes.
To John Marrast Sir Washington Oct. 13. 04. On my return here I recieved your bill of the white & green wax candles you had been so kind as to send me, amounting to seventy nine dollars twenty cents for which sum I now send you a note of the 526
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US. bank here on that at Norfolk. I pray you to accept my acknolegements for your attention to this commission & my salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. John Marrast. Norfolk”; endorsed by TJ.
your bill: see Marrast to TJ, 22 Aug.
To Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Washington Oct. 13. 04. I have duly recieved your favor of the 8th. which excites a great curiosity in me to see mr Hawkins’s polygraph: and as you say you are sending one to the Secretary of state, which I know to be for his office, for it was on my recommendation, I will ask the favor of you to address it to me, that I may have an opportunity of seeing & trying it. it shall then be delivered to it’s address, and in the mean time will put me in possession of an estimate of Hawkins’s improvements. I salute you with friendship & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (TxU); at foot of text: “Mr. Peale.” PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ.
To Carlos IV, King of Spain Great and Good Friend, Desirous of improving and perpetuating by every arrangement, calculated for mutual advantage, the good correspondence which so happily prevails between the United States and Spain, I have for this purpose given full powers to James Monroe, lately Governor of the State of Virginia, who repairs to Madrid in the character of Minister Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary. The special objects with which he is charged are regarded as intimately connected with the welfare of the two nations, and will evince the disposition of the United States to consolidate their amicable relations with Spain. From the knowledge I have of the fidelity, probity and just views of this distinguished citizen, I have entire confidence that he will render himself acceptable to you in this charge. I beseech you therefore to give full credence to whatever he shall say to you on the part of the United States, and most of all when he shall assure you of our friendship and wishes for the prosperity of Spain. And I pray God to Have you, Great and Good Friend, in his safe and holy keeping. 527
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Written at the City of Washington the Fourteenth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and four. Th: Jefferson RC (NjP); in a clerk’s hand, signed by TJ; below signature: “By the President,” signed by Madison as secretary of state; at head of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States of America, To His Majesty Don Carlos by the Grace of God King of Castile, of Leon, of Arragon, of the two Sicilies, of Jerusalem, of Navarre, of Granada, of Toledo, of Valencia, of Galicia, of Mallorca, of Seville, of Sardinia, of Cordova, of Corcega, of Murcia, of Jaen, of the Algarves, of Algecira, of Gibraltar, of the Canary Islands, of the East and West Indies, of the Islands and main Land, of the ocean,—Arch Duke of Austria, Duke of Burgoña, of Brabant and of Milan, Count of Apsburg, of Flanders, of Tirol, and of Barcelona, Lord of Biscay and Molina &c”; addressed: “To Our Great and Good Friend, His Catholic Majesty”; with seal of the United States. RC (ViW); in a clerk’s hand, signed by TJ and Madison, with seal of the United States. FC (DNA: RG 59, Credences). Not recorded in SJL. special objects: the administration had previously instructed Monroe to negotiate a convention that would establish the Perdido River as the eastern boundary of Louisiana, acquire the Floridas for a sum up to two million dollars, establish a neutral zone in Texas, and settle claims not covered under the convention of 1802.
In a letter of 26 Oct. to Monroe, Madison enclosed the letter of credence printed above, Monroe’s commission, and Charles Pinckney’s letter of recall of 12 Oct. Madison advised Monroe to adopt a less aggressive posture regarding the western boundary of Louisiana and instructed him to reject the conditions Spain demanded for ratifying the 1802 convention. In pursuing American claims against spoliations, particularly those conducted by French ships sailing into Spanish ports, Monroe was to feel free to set the convention aside and work out a new agreement. Monroe, however, did not receive Madison’s letter until after presenting himself on 13 Jan. 1805 to Carlos IV, to whom he gave an earlier letter of credence requesting acceptance of a joint mission with Pinckney. The two diplomats acted in concert throughout Monroe’s stay in Spain (FC of Monroe’s commission in DNA: RG 59, Credences; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:51-61, 430-2; 8:218-25; Monroe, Papers, 5:215-21, 265-9, 296; Vol. 39:498-9; Vol. 42:504-5; List of Letters Received from Carlos Martínez de Irujo, printed at 25 Sep.). After the Senate approved Monroe’s nomination, the administration issued a new commission, dated 22 Nov. (FC in NNPM; in a clerk’s hand, signed by Jefferson and Madison).
From Peter Freneau Dear Sir, Charleston, October 14th. 1804. The bearer hereof Doctor Philip1 Moser of this City having occasion to visit Virginia intends also to pass a day or two at Washington. He expresses a great desire to be made known to the Chief Magistrate of the Union, for this purpose I have taken the liberty to deliver him this and beg leave to state to you that he is a gentleman who is much respected here. He will have the satisfaction of informing you, Sir, that this year, for the first time, the Republicans in this City have been able to oppose with success the Federalists; Mr Robert Marion 528
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the republican Candidate for Congress has nearly double the number of Votes that his opponent Mr Smith has, and in the other Districts, tho’ there is some opposition in some of them, it is confined amongst republicans, so that the next representation from this state will be entirely republican. In our state Legislature the federalists that are elected are few indeed, and most of those that will be there owe their seats to republican Votes. It was thought adviseable not to drop them entirely, for there are some honest men tho’ attached to the party who do not go all lengths with the disappointed Characters who countenance the virulent attacks that are made on the administration, which in this state have most evidently hurried on the ruin of their cause and covered their authors with opprobrium. To me, Sir, it appears evident that a favorable change has taken place in the minds of the people here, and, without intending the least adulation, I give it as my opinion that this change is intirely owing to the wise measures of your administration.— I now Sir beg your forgiveness for this intrusion on your Valuable time and subscribe myself with Sentiments of the highest respect and esteem. Your most obedient & Very Humble Servant Peter Freneau We have no information here that any opposition is to be made at the next presidential election to the names agreed on at Washington last Winter.—Doctor Moser is one of the republicans who has never swerved from the good cause, the greatest confidence may be placed in him— RC (DLC); at foot of text: “To the President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 30 Oct. and so recorded in SJL with notation “by Dr. Moser.”
names agreed on at washington: see Report on Meeting of Republican Caucus, [25 Feb. 1804]. 1 Name
interlined in place of “Peter.”
From Levi Lincoln Sir Worcester Octr 14—1804— I have the honor to acknowledge the reception of your favor of the 16th ult. Absence from Worcester prevented a more seasonable acknowledgement. I will pay every attention in my power to the subject matter of the enclosures, in pursuence of your suggestions. Of the insult and injury involved in the outrages complained of, there can be 529
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but one opinion, on the mode of remidying, or securing against, them in future, probably many. The federalists in this quarter of the Union, seem generally prepared to suffer any thing from the British with patience. The feelings of the republicans are different. The former also appear to exult at their fancied, but, I trust, delusive prospect of a rupture or embarrassments with Spain, their calculating hopes for restoration to consequence & influence, on the Genl. Govt. are founded in some wished for calamity to the U.S. any thing rather than the present happy & increasing prosperous state of the Country, under your Administration. At no time have I known this party indulge more determined bitterness and meanness against Republicans & their measures than at the present moment. Every day’s experience confirms my former opinion that neither time, or events of any kind, will ever produce friendly affections towards the existing administration, or even ecquiescence, I mean quiet ecquiescence, in its measures— I have no doubt some of these leaders are seriously employing themselves in preparing their follower’s minds for a dissolution of the Union; while others, in heart opposed to the traiterous project, apparently yield to it, with a view of intimidating the friends to the Govt. Pamphlets letters, conversation, & even news paper paragraphs and essays, looking to this depricated event, are frequent. The exertions to prejudice the northern citizens against their southern brethren are as incessant & various, as infamous—Fresh alarms, on account of Louissiana, religion, and Virginia influence, with their usual weapons, falshood & calumnies repeated, or new modified, are the means by which the opposition maintain their standing, & hope for final success—The dangers of the church is a topic still harped upon, with great effect. Its ministers, tho’ more guarded & controled than heretofore, are not less influential, in many places—The friends to the Govt. altho they act more in concert, and with more spirit & better means of counteracting the efforts of its enemies, are still, in my opinion, very deficient, & much behind their opponents in their endeavours to obtain their object—The spirit, independence, and freedom in respect to the treatment of their opponents to which the republicans have recently raised themselves, in the town & County of Worcester have had a very salutary effect; this has rendered outrageous individuals more cautious, almost silent, unless to express their regret that the public papers should be used to expose and arraign the disgraceful conduct of their own partizans. A spirit similar, and in the style of which you may have noticed specimens, in some of our late papers, if universally exercised towards the calumniatious faction, would soon destroy its propensity to slander, & reduce it to decency, if not prostrate the opposition. 530
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On my return to N England I found reports had been spread, & with too much effect, at which I was surprised, and for the pretence, of most of which, I was wholly at a loss to account. I had been made acquainted with divisions of opinions, among republicans, in reference to the questions of the Georgia claims, the modifications of the amendment of the Constitution, the mode of designating a candidate for the vice Presidency, and in reference to the still more uninteresting questions concerning a certain letter, with the impressions that the private & public discussion of these topics had unhappily and unreasonably produced on the minds of some good men. I had considered these impressions as the infelicities of a few persons, and not as effecting the grand division of parties in the Govt. But federal ingenuity had formed changed & improved these circumstances to the wicked purposes of prejudicing one part of the Union against the other, with a view to its dissolution—that every thing which federalists had said of Southern characters had been experienced to be true in the last session of Congress,—That such characters had combinied to, and actually did exclusively administer the Govt. in subserviency to their own local views and interest;—that they, especially, the Virginians hold in the utmost contempt the northern states, and northern characters;— that such were their principles, measures, & mode of conducting themselves the republicans from these states could not, in conscience, any longer act with them, that there was a great misunderstanding between the members of the administration;—that Eustis, Varnum, Skinner and others, with Dearborn, Granger, & myself had been ill-treated, had proposed a coalition with federalists, were disgusted & determined to resign and abandon their party;—that I myself had quarrelled with Randolph and was the object of your neglect were statements among the reports current at this place on my arrival. finding these electioneering fabrications had made some mortifying impressions on our friends, and beleiving none of them to be true as circulated, and knowing most of them to be false, especially those in reference to myself, I did not hesitate, with a concealment of my own intentions to resign on your reelection to the Presidency, to repel them as infamous falshoods, with all that indignation which they were calculated to inspire—The persons who had been principally instrumental in spreading these reports, on a subsequent application, not daring to confirm them, removed in a great degree the impressions, which had been made. A Pamphlet written with art; addressing the prejudices of the people on some of the above topicks, and on many others, armed with falshoods and for the above ojects are circulating in thousands through 531
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this and the neighbouring states, & I fear with some effect, They are1 sent to ministers & other selected characters as usual— Our Supreme Court have nearly compleated their Autumn Circuit through this state. In all the counties in which it has set, the Chief Justice Dana, has made a lengthy address to the people on the recent unconstitutional violations of the independence of the judiciary, with pointed allusions to the measures of the Genl. Government, on this subject. Some free strictures have already been made on this address, in the Ægis; some more moderate ones addressed to his honor in reference to the conduct of our State Govt, will appear in the next Ægis. The friends to the Genl. Govt thus assailed, and its measures thus reproached, thus denounced, they need all the aid that Govt can afford them, for their support. I neither know the situtation of our affairs at Tripoli, or the state of our finances, for the present year, but would they admit of a repeal of the duty on salt, at the present conjuncture, such an event would have a very happy effect, still happier should the measure result from your recommendation. This duty is felt as a very serious burden in a grazing country, and such are the eastern States. It injures husbandry; besides the great quantities which are used in preserving our beef, pork, butter, & cheese, much is given to our cattle, & profitably mixed with our hay, & more, much more, would be, was it not so dear. A release from no burden would be more generally & immediately felt; no act more universally acceptable among the farmers of every State—Where, reasoning against the political lectures of priests, subject to the imputations of impiety & irreligion, if not, of sacrilege; and against those of a judge, to a commitment for a contempt, or an imprisonment for a libel, some popular conciliating acts are necessary to aid the oppressed reasoner. I shall leave Worcester in few days for Washington. I read with sorrow of the deaths of Govr. Claiborne & Mr Trist. Genl. Lyman has been with me, a few days, on his way from Boston—He is importunate to be provided for, by the Genl. Govt.—mentions Louissiana, a foreign employment, or a revenue employment, at Boston.—says necessity will oblige him to leave Northampton, & he has requested me to state his case to yourself—He says the friends to the Government in Boston are confident of success in the choice of Electors; I fear their disappoinment, tho I think they will progress. Exertions are great— Accept Sir assurance of my most respectful esteem and affectionate attachment to your person & administration Levi Lincoln RC (NHi: Gallatin Papers); at head of text: “President of the United States”;
endorsed by TJ as received 26 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
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15 OCTOBER 1804 divisions of opinions: the shareholders of the New England Mississippi Land Company included prominent Federalists and Republicans. Because of the bipartisan nature of the company, the spring 1804 congressional debate over the Georgia land claims pitted Republicans from northern states against their southern allies (C. Peter Magrath, Yazoo: Law and Politics in the New Republic [Providence, 1966], 37-46). pamphlet written with art: likely A Defence of the Legislature of Massachusetts, a widely reprinted Federalist tract that argued against the Twelfth Amendment and in favor of an amendment that
would apportion “representatives among the States according to the number of free inhabitants” (A Defence of the Legislature of Massachusetts, or the Rights of Newengland Vindicated [Boston, 1804], 3). On 26 Sep., the Worcester National Aegis published free strictures alleging that Francis Dana’s recent grand jury instructions were a usurpation of executive and legislative power. One month later, on 24 Oct., the newspaper addressed Dana on the powers of the judiciary under the state constitution. 1
MS: “a.”
To Robert Smith Th:J. to mr Smith Oct. 14. 04 I inclose you a letter from one Baldwin respecting things at the Wallabough. the proper use of such information is to put one on enquiry as it comes often from good men with patriotic views. with respect to himself, I presume from Blackley’s letter he has been heretofore in employ, & is now out. you will judge whether his situation does not merit such notice, useful to him, as circumstances may admit. affectionate salutations. PoC (DLC). Enclosure: Daniel Baldwin to TJ, 8 Oct.
blackley’s letter: see Blachly to TJ, 17 Sep.
From Robert Butler Thos. Jefferson Esqr. Charleston Octr. 15th. 1804 I take the liberty to inform you that I wrote under date of the 23d. of August last Jointly with capt. Joseph Hudson to Albert Gallatin Esqr. Secretary of the Treasury on the subject of the condemnation of the Schooner Eliza capt. Johnson for a breach of the laws of the United states, and having received no answer as yet, I am apprehensive the subject might appear too trifeling to claim his attention. The condemnation of the before mentioned vessel was from information given by myself and capt. Hudson, and Jams Simons Esqr. collecter of this port has treated us with such contempt as to merit detestation, in endeavouring to cheat us out of the half which the law 533
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contemplated should be for the use of the informers, I beg leave to refer you to the letter which I wrote Mr. Gallatin on the subject where you will se the motives which induced us to become informers and claimers of one half of the proceeds of the vessel—you will pardon me for thus troubleing you, but when I reflect that it is equally the duty of a cheif Magistrate to se Justice done to the obscure citizen as well as the conspicuous I need make no further apology, and remain with due respect Sir yours &c Robt. Butler P.S. I had forgot to say I do not wish to impeach Mr. Gallatin with neglect of his duty and am willing to think his absence from the seat of government and the multiplicity of business before him upon his arrival, is the cause of his not answering our letter. RC (DLC); at foot of text above postscript: “Thos. Jefferson Esqr. President of the United States of America”; endorsed by TJ as received 26 Oct. and so recorded in SJL with notation “T.” A former mariner, Charleston merchant Robert Butler later became inspector for the South Carolina Insurance Company (Nelson’s Charleston Directory, and Strangers Guide, for the Year of Our Lord, 1801 [Charleston, S.C., 1801], 64; Eleazer Elizer, A Directory, for 1803; Containing; the Names of all the House-Keepers and Traders in the City of Charleston [Charleston, S.C., 1803], 8; Richard Hrabowski,
Directory for the District of Charleston [Charleston, S.C., 1809], 13, 119). condemnation of the schooner eliza: in July, customs officers in Charleston seized the schooner Eliza (alias the Divina Pastora) after receiving information that the vessel was intended to be converted into a French privateer. Bernard Johnson was the schooner’s captain. A U.S. district court condemned the Eliza and ordered it sold (Charleston City Gazette, 26 July). Butler’s letter to Gallatin regarding the case has not been found, but see Gallatin to TJ, [on or after 26 Oct.].
From William Dunbar Dear Sir Natchez 15th. October 1804 Colo. Freeman was unable to find a small boat and dispatched Lieut. Wilson with a serjeant and twelve in the large boat with four months provisions from the lst. of September: Extreme bad weather with rain and contrary winds rendered the passage up tedious, and to add to our retardment I was extremely unwell at the time of the boats arriving: a few days were necessary for recovery & a few more were given to the writing of letters and transacting of business preparative to our expedition. I did not find myself authorised to deprive the Service of a Commissioned officer upon this little expedition, Mr. Wilson therefore 534
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returns to New Orleans, but as there was now no remedy respecting the boat & dispatch being our object, we have kept the Serjeant and twelve, and placed 12 oars upon the boat so that all the men may row.—I shall carry several instruments in addition to those provided for the party.—the season being advanced, it is not my intention to loose any time by making astronomical observations on the way up, excepting only where this can be done without any retardment of the boat; we shall take the courses & distances of the river, so as to be able to form a sketch of it: we shall make all the haste we can to the hot springs, which we look to as our principal object; we shall endeavour to get all the information we can procure at the settlement on the River Washita; a rumor at present prevails that the Indians on that side begin to threaten the Americans & that they are set on by the Spaniards at Nakadoches; this seems not probable while the Marquis of Casa Calva is at New Orleans: it appears to be well authenticated that three Americans have been Killed on the other side, some say by indians, others say by Spaniards, it is believed they were in search of mines considerably beyond the line of limits acknowledged by the Spaniards. Tomorrow we set off. The three deputies from New Orleans with their remonstrance to Congress are setting out about this time: it is believed that this Opposition has been promoted chiefly by Americans who are in search of popularity: Possessing an acquaintance with the french planters below almost general, I think it not improper to inform you that two of the Deputies are personally known to me; M. Sauvé a frenchman by birth was formerly a merchant in New Orleans, highly esteemed for his probity in business, and remarkable for his indulgence to his Customers and debtors; he became a planter, and is in easy or rather afluent circumstances; for a frenchman his manners are plain, with much candor and frankness of behavior, he speaks english tollerably well. M. Detraihant a Creole of Louisiana is a planter of the first rank, he is greatly respected and even looked up to by his Neighbours, he is a gentleman of polite maners & honorable principles, he does not speak english,—plays chess a little. The third is not known to me, having of late years come into Louisiana, he is a frenchman by birth & has acted as government interpreter and speaks english. The real french inhabitants of Louisiana with whom I have conversed, seem well affected to the Govt. of the U.S. & wish to have it, understood, that they mean nothing more by their memorial than to solicit respectfully what will be conducive to their own happiness and cement their attachment to their new Government. 535
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Doctor Hunter is well & is much pleased with this little excursion, he proposes to visit his family immediately on our return, as he will still have time to return here for the grand expedition. I have the honor to be respectfully Your most Obedient Servant William Dunbar RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 13 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Dft (Lb in Ms-Ar: William Dunbar Papers). three americans have been killed: William C. C. Claiborne also received information on the killing of three Americans near the Sabine River. Throughout this period, reports circu-
lated that the Spanish at Nacogdoches were attempting to alienate nearby Indians from American influence and that some Indians were advocating warfare against the United States (Rowland, Claiborne Letter Books, 2:341, 348, 373-4, 385; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:87-8, 122, 201-2). the third: Pierre Derbigny.
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Oct. 15 1804 The receipt for Louisiana Stock which we have in the Treasury and is enclosed is only that of Mr Livingston, which, in conformity with the contract of Baring with the French Govt. and Messrs. Pichon’s & Baring’s letters filed in the office, operated as a full discharge to the United States of their engagement to deliver Stock. Mr Livingston had, besides this, become voluntary depositor of the Stock and of the bills given by Baring in payment. It appears by his enclosed letter that he had delivered both to the parties and has sent a receipt to the Secretary of State on that subject. But this was a personal responsibility of his with which Govt. had nothing to do. It further appears by Baring’s letter (which is a private one to me) that the purchasers of the stock, Hope and Baring had anticipated their payments, which by the contract were to be made within two years, and had paid the French Govt. in full. With this we have nothing to do. Mr Livingston’s letter is that which I had mentioned to you, and I enclose the copy of my answer which went by Mr Armstrong & was communicated to him, and which I had forgotten to send you before. With great respect Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); addressed: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 15 Oct. and so recorded in SJL with notation “French acquital for stock”; also endorsed by TJ: “Reciept from France of
stock.” Enclosures: (1) Gallatin to Robert R. Livingston, 25 Aug., responding to Livingston’s letter of 3 May and expressing his pleasure that Livingston has been “relieved from the inconvenient trust” of the Louisiana stock; Gallatin addresses
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15 OCTOBER 1804 Livingston’s concerns about the congressional act settling American debt claims against the French government, assuring Livingston that, despite wording in the act seemingly to the contrary, the minister had never been personally liable for the certificates since he was acting solely as a courier; Gallatin states that he will follow Livingston’s suggestion that the stock’s debit and credit amounts be entered in the Treasury books on the same date so as “never to leave a charge against the Minister in account of the draft”; Gallatin suggests that in the future, and as “a caution against frauds,” the minister accompany receipts with a letter of advice; he further suggests that the minister advise Gallatin monthly on the drafts he is executing; Gallatin reminds Livingston that monies advanced to the commercial agents
are charged on Livingston’s account and that receipts will be needed in order to obtain credit (Gallatin, Papers, 9:971-3). (2) Receipt of Livingston, Paris, 25 Apr., for delivery from Lieutenant James T. Leonard of certificates of Louisiana six percent stock “to the amount of seven millions five hundred thousand dollars” (MS in DNA: RG 56, PFLP; in Leonard’s hand, signed by Livingston). (3) Livingston to Gallatin, 3 May, mentioned in Enclosure No. 1, has not been found. baring’s letter: Sir Alexander Baring to Gallatin, 25 July, explaining that Francis Baring & Co. received only partial payment for interest they considered due in full on 30 June (Gallatin, Papers, 9:882).
To John M. Gelston Dear Sir Washington Oct. 15. 04. Your letter of Sep. 1. did not reach this place till the 9th. inst. I recieved by the same post other information of the unfortunate loss of mr Trist. I regret it sincerely; having known him from an infant and esteemed him greatly for his good qualities. my friendship too for his connections increased the interest I took in his welfare. their situation is deplorable. I am glad that mr William Brown has been able to recommend himself so much to the merchants and others of N. Orleans as to obtain so respectable a sollicitation for his succeeding to his principal in the office in which he has acted as deputy. mr Brown’s integrity and capacity for the office are known here; but it is among the most valuable offices in the gift of the US. and very many 1 others can enter into competition with him on grounds of equal honesty & capacity. there is in his favor indeed a presumption that he would not let the wife & mother of his brother in law suffer. such would undoubtedly be his early sentiments. but he may marry, his situation change & his sentiments with that. liberal and exact explanations of the solidity of their dependance on him, at least until any change in their situation should occur to render it unnecessary, would be a title of weight in addition to those he has in common with other competitors. your friendship for mr Trist and his family would justify your asking these explanations from mr Brown, or if a further ground of 537
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interference be necessary, you might say the suggestion comes from a source which he would respect: but the precise source I would not chuse to have declared to him, nor that it should be made known to him or any person whatever that I have written to you on the subject. for this I can rely on your honor. my sole motive in doing it is the same with yours in writing to me on the subject. the successor will be decided on in about a fortnight. his mr Brown’s 2 sentiments should therefore be ascertained immediately. & fixed. Accept my friendly & respectful salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “J. M. Gelston esq.”; endorsed by TJ.
1 Preceding two words interlined in place of “hundreds of.” 2 Preceding two words interlined.
To George Jefferson Dear Sir Washington Oct. 15. 04. I recieved last night your favor on the subject of the double paiment of my order to Moran. that it should be your loss, I can never consent. it was paid for my honor, and must be my loss. tho’ paid by mistake yet as you were not to gain by the paiment so you must not lose. I have written to mr Lilly, my manager, to go immediately in pursuit of Moran & Miller, to see if both, or which has been guilty of the cheat, and if the money is not instantly returned, to prosecute criminally for it. this I think a duty to society. can you inform me who William Irvine is, and whether he bore an order from Moran, as he perhaps can throw some light on the transaction. We begin to be in want of our coal, as none is to be had here. I expect a box has been sent to you from Monticello addressed to me at this place, which I will pray you to forward with the coal if they should be on hand together. I salute you with sincere affection & respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr. George Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “Moran.”
TJ wrote several letters to Gabriel lilly in October that have not been found (see Appendix iv). The box contained books (TJ to George Jefferson, 5 Dec.).
538
From Meriwether Jones Sir Richmond Octr. 15th. 1804 Some time in the month of June last, I defended you in the Enquirer against a charge, that shortly before the declaration of Independence, you had drafted & signed an humble and adulatory address to the king of England. In the defence alluded to, I mentioned, that at that crisis of American affairs, you were always considered foremost of your cotemporaries; and in support of my assertion, I instanced a string of Resolutions of which you were the author, and which were forwarded to the Moderator of the convention at Williamsburg in 1774—These Resolutions, Mr. Edmd. Randolph informed me, were considered a day or two in advance of the spirit of the times; but that himself, & some other young patriots were so captivated with their point and elegance, that they procured their publication by subscription: he told me too, that he had a copy of the Resolutions which were at my command. Upon this information, I promised the readers of the Enquirer, to prove, by showing them the resolutions in question, that you foresaw very early in the progress of our revolution, that independence & liberty were inseparable. After my promise to the Public, Mr. Edmd. Randolph & myself made several unsuccessful searches for these resolutions: and as I feel some solicitude to redeem my word which still stands pledged, I have taken the liberty to ask of you a copy of them.—I am of opinion that their publication at this epoch will be of service, by proving a political consistency of character, and by calling the public feeling to a period which should be brought to their recollection as frequently as possible.— Accept, Sir, my sincere respect & esteem Merir. Jones RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 18 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Jones defended TJ against the charge leveled by the New-York Evening Post
that the president was a lukewarm friend to independence (Richmond Enquirer, 22 Aug.; TJ to Samuel Harrison Smith, [19 July]).
From Nicholas King Sir. Surveyors Office, 15th. Octr 1804 Being requested by Mr Briggs to assist him in running a true Meridian line, which should pass through the center of the Presidents house; and to perpetuate the same, as also the point of intersection by a due West line drawn from the center of the Capitol, by fixing 539
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permanent marks thereon; and as the pressure of other Official engagements prevented his attention to more than ascertaining the Meridian line and marking it temporarily, it devolves on me to describe the mode pursued in ascertaining the line and the required intersections, that others may know what dependence is to be placed on their accuracy. In running the Meridian line, I acted only in the capacity of assistant, conforming entirely to the instructions of Mr. Briggs; and executing with all the care in my power the marking of his temporary line, agreeably to his signals and instructions, in giving which I believe he used all the accuracy of which the instrument was capable. With a new Transit instrument, executed by Voigt of Philadelphia, he ascertained the place of the Star in the tail of the constellation Ursa Minor, on its greatest eastern elongation, and continuing the Vertical circle to the surface of the ground by the instrument, he determined the bearing; in the line of which, on a very low stand was placed one of Argands lamps covered by a tin cylinder in which a small slit was made, for a sight; and the line from the light towards the instrument was drawn upon the stand. Knowing the radius of the circle described by the Star, or half the angle formed by its greatest elongations, east and west, and the altitude of the pole; he by calculation deduced the horizontal angle made by two Vertical circles, one of which is the Meridian, passing through the pole, the other through the Stars place when farthest east. This horizontal angle being found, and the base line measured from the place of the instrument (the north door of the presidents house) to where it is intersected by an east and west line from the place of the light or sight used (the north side of north I Street) afforded the necessary data, for calculating the distance to be measured west, from the place of the sight to the true meridian line: which offset was very carefully made and the line marked on the head of a post firmly driven into the ground. The meridian being thus fixed and a point found due north from the place of observation the line was continued by the instrument at one sight, and tested by reversing the telescope at an intermediate Station in the line, to the top of a hill near two miles north of the presidents house, on the lands of Mr Robert Peter; where temporary posts were fixed, and the line marked upon them, according to the instructions by signal from Mr Briggs at the instrument. From the presidents house the line was reversed, by the instrument, and continued South across the Tyber creek, and marked in the same manner on the head of posts driven in the Public appropriation called the mall. 540
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Having obtained the permission of Mr Peter, early in September I planted a small obelisk of free Stone, prepared by Mr Blagden, in the Meridian line north of the presidents house on the hight where the Stakes had been fixed under the direction of Mr Briggs. The apex is in the true meridian from the center of the north door. In perpetuating the south line it was deemed best to place the stone where the meridian line should be intersected by a west line from the Capitol: the surface of the ground however being unfavorable,—the capitol not being visible at the point of intersection,—it suggested the planting an obelisk similar to that on the north line, at a point on the meridian; west from the South end of the capitol, and where the building was distinctly seen, and from thence find the intersection of the center line, by measuring northwards half the length of the Capitol. Although the body of the building was in full view, yet intervening trees prevented my seeing with the necessary distinctness the south end of the capitol; and I had to find the required point on the meridian by setting off the angle included between the northwest corner of the building and the center of the presidents house. This angle I had previously calculated, from the distance 7696₁−⁸− ₀ feet, and the length of the Capitol 351 feet 5 Inches, to be 87.° 23.′ 06,8″:—For the greater accuracy I measured this angle from different parts of the circle of a Theodolite, made by Adams; going several times round the instrument, and taking the mean as the correct angle. In one instance however I found a variation of nearly two minutes in the angular distance of the buildings, in others they would coincide for several observations. I thus ascertained my possition, and the point on the meridian line, from which a line drawn at right angles, due East, would touch the south end of the capitol, with all the precision the instrument is capable of. Here I planted the obelisk, and measured from the center of it, north 175 feet 8½ inches, half the length of the building for the point of intersection on the meridian drawn through the center of the Presidents house, by a West line from the center of the Capitol. It is on the South bank of tyber creek, and marked by the erection of a small pier, covered by a flat free stone,1 on which the lines are drawn.— I am Sir, respectfully yours. Nichs King S.C.W RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 15 Oct. and so recorded in SJL with notation “meridian. S.”; also endorsed by TJ: “to be filed in the office of state, as a record of the demarcation of the 1st. Meridian of the US.”
Isaac briggs used the true meridian line established at Washington to calculate locations and distances as he surveyed his proposed postal route to New Orleans (Briggs to TJ, 22 Dec.). An invoice prepared by John Lenthall, dated 18 Dec., calculated the expense of
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15 OCTOBER 1804 erecting the meridian obelisks and pier to be $171.21½ (MS in DNA: RG 42, LRDLS; Silvio A. Bedini, The Jefferson Stone: Demarcation of the First Meridian of the United States [Frederick, Md., 1999], 37).
made by adams: the Adams family of London, makers of scientific instruments since the 1730s, included patriarch George Adams and his sons George, Jr., and Dudley (dnb, s.v. “Adams family”). 1 MS:
“sone.”
From James Madison [on or before 15 Oct. 1804]
Perhaps the language may be a little more effectually guarded agst. the idea of making a sort of Stipulation the title to the appointment. All that can be effected is to strengthen his good dispositions, by his knowing that they were calculated on as a proof of his general merit, & by his committing himself for a perseverance in those dispositions, by conversations and declarations on the subject with friends whom he esteems RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25003); undated; entirely in Madison’s hand; endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department on 15 Oct. and “my lre of Oct. 15. to Gelston” and so recorded in SJL.
Madison was evidently recommending language for TJ’s letter of this day to John M. Gelston, which concerned the possible appointment of William Brown as the collector at New Orleans.
From Caesar A. Rodney Honored & Dear Sir, Wilmington Octob. 15. 1804. After a very arduous struggle our election has terminated against us apparently. I say apparently because I beleive had they voted in Sussex no more than they have actually qualified votes we must have succeeded. In that County I had One thousand & fifty three votes & my friend Hasllet who resides there One thousand & Forty one. I presume they polled none for either of us but what were good; as a large majority of the judges are Federalists. There cannot be above 2.600 good votes polled in that County. Indeed they never reached that number but once before this year when they took in 3,200.!!! Sussex contains but 19,000 black & white inhabitants. a great proportion black, & New Castle contains 26.000 & very few blacks. This County polled 2,800 about 400. more than at my last election when it gave me a majority of 959. This year it gave me a majority of 1,073. & Haslet of 1.071. In each county particularly in Kent & Sussex we 542
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were far ahead of our tickets whilst the Federal candidates lagged behind theirs. But they seem previously to have determined on making up for all those things. Such is uniformly their conduct whilst in power. They have now got two men up to the hub for their respective stations. A few contemptible wretches who assumed the mask of Republicanism for office, united in support of J. A. Bayard & N. Mitchill, as friends to the present administration but they did us no harm, & some good. From what I observe here & elsewhere, of the deep game the Feds are playing; it will be necessary to take some decisive steps against the “Union of honest men.” completely shewed his cloven foot this election & I do trust he will not much longer be suffered to bask in the sunshine of office whilst by every little low dirty fraud & artifice congenial with his corrupt groveling soul he is attempting to stab in the dark the friends of administration. You once my Dear Sir wished me to point out a successor, delicacy alone prevented, but then times call for every exertion & if you desire it I will in confidence recommend the person whom I think capable & who I beleive will give satisfaction. There have several meritorious characters applied, very discerning & very capable. has hinted here that he expects to go out, & one plan to keep himself in will be to get as many more as possible to apply. This he is now at I am informed, but out he should go. I should have written to you before, but have had my regular attack of the bilious & have been confined for near two weeks. With every wish for your personal happiness & the welfare of your administration I remain Dr Sir Yours Very Sincerely C. A. Rodney RC (DLC); one name heavily canceled in two places; endorsed by TJ as received 19 Oct.; recorded in SJL as received 18 Oct. election has terminated against us: the Washington Universal Gazette, 18 Oct., announced that Rodney lost to James A. Bayard by 360 votes, winning in New Castle County, but losing in Kent and Sussex. In the governor’s race, Joseph Haslet lost to Nathaniel Mitchell by 341 votes, also winning only in New Castle. In both cases, the county statistics reported by the newspaper and those quoted by Rodney to TJ were almost identical.
mask of republicanism: see Enclosure No. 2 described at Thomas Leiper to TJ, 16 Aug. his cloven foot: referring to Allen McLane, the collector at the port of Wilmington and a continual source of disgruntlement among Delaware Republicans. On 13 Oct., McLane wrote to an unidentified recipient that “the Junto” was again calling for his dismissal, this time with expectation of Rodney’s aid in Congress. McLane, though, had no doubt that the violence against him hurt their cause, especially in Kent County, where he was “particularly honored by the people.” McLane vowed to ignore the
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15 OCTOBER 1804 slander and to execute his office with “fidelity, & integrity” as long as it pleased the president (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsement by TJ partially clipped). McLane enclosed extracts of newspaper articles and public letters that both at-
tacked him as an enemy of the Republican Party and criticized TJ for keeping him in office. Also enclosed were extracts from two private letters informing McLane of ongoing gossip about his war record (MS in DLC: TJ Papers, 163:28696-7).
From John Rush Sir [on or before 15 Oct. 1804] In presenting you with the Elements of life I have given you merely the Alphabet of this science. Mankind are not yet prepared for the consequences which would flow from principles, deduced from Nature and reason. Physical morality can never perfect human nature, while the physical world and its enjoyments, are abandoned for that of the moral—I have therefore touched lightly on solid ground. But perhaps I have unfolded the true germ, from which has sprung a great portion of error, by unfolding the difference, between the truth of ideas and the truth of facts;—a difference, that though known to many Philosophes, has not by them been applied, to establish first principles. To you Sir my allusions will be familiar; and your mind can much better supply what I have omitted to conclude. I wrote only for men of science, but with this reserve, that if attacked by pretenders, I should explain some things in a manner somewhat subversive1 of their logical reasonings—I might have shown them, that it requires a stronger effort of the mind, to comprehend the truth of a simple proposition, than it does to understand, the most abstract proposition in metaphysics. I have been asked, why I did not consider the doctrine of “Epigennesis” or preexisting germs? but I have provided for this,—for if every known form of matter consists in the particular union of Chemical Elements, the germ is nothing else but chemical matter, resulting from affinity; and its vegatation, or expansion, the consequence of other matters agreeably to Affinity—We talk of Embios in the semen masculinum; I have seen them, and lo! they were tadpoles, which upon mixture with the fluid in the female organs, undergoes a total decomposition—at any rate a chemical change is proved to take place, for if every germ were a man in minature, we should have a thousand at a birth—but all these are decomposed and go to form the heart and 544
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arteries, which perhaps first appear—These certainly do not appear until the germs have undergone a Change. With Sentiments of high respect I am Sir your Obt J Rush RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25011-12); undated; addressed: “Thos. Jefferson. President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 15 Oct. and so recorded in SJL with notation “with a pamphlet.” Enclosure: John Rush, Elements of Life, or, The Laws of Vital Matter (Philadelphia, 1804); Sowerby, No. 981. John Rush (1777-1837) was the eldest son of Philadelphia physician Benjamin Rush and his wife, Julia Stockton Rush. In 1790, he enrolled at his father’s alma mater, the College of New Jersey, but after two years of disciplinary offenses and lackluster scholarship, he was brought home. After a short apprenticeship under his father, Rush went to sea, first as a commercial sailor and then as a naval surgeon. In 1804, he completed his medical degree at the University of Pennsylvania.
Although the degree opened up professional opportunities in Philadelphia, Rush chose to travel to South Carolina and Cuba before reentering the navy as a sailing master. In 1808, he was relieved of duty and ordered to Washington, perhaps for hospitalization, after a series of quarrels and “gunplay” aboard ship. Rush attempted suicide in 1809 and by the next year was confined to Pennsylvania Hospital’s psychiatric ward, where he remained until his death. Ironically, the paper that Rush sent TJ was on the topic of insanity, supporting his father’s theory that the condition was caused by a malfunction of cerebral blood vessels (J. Jefferson Looney and Ruth L. Woodward, Princetonians, 17911794: A Biographical Dictionary [Princeton, 1991], 429-39; rs, 3:279n). 1
MS: “subvesive.”
From Matthew Wing 15th Oct 1804
Singular and odd as your Excellency may think of an application made by a man of my appearance for appointment in the armey Yet from a true knowledg of the duty and a contiousness of my Integrety and intentions and an honest ambition of serveing my native country. With confidental assureance of being well supported in the application By some gentlemen of the Nothern country whose characters and Political influance is well Known throughout the united states I calld. at the war office was informed that there was no vacancy— I have a communication to make which may afford your Excellency some satisfaction—which I feel delicate to commit to paper— Prey accept of the above as an appology for intruding on your Excellency— And as in duty Bound Matthew Wing RC (DLC). Recorded in SJL as received 15 Oct. with notation “insane.”
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From Thomas Worthington Sir Chilicothe October 15th 1804 Since I last had the pleasure to write you Mr Baldwin has resigned the office of District attorney for this state—and Mr Creighton has returned home give me leave to name this last Gentleman as a person well qualified to fill the office—Mr Creighton was raised in the same county in Virginia from which I came, (Berkeley) and has lived at this place for more than six years, I have therefore had a full oppertunity to become acquainted with his character and general deportment, It is due Mr Creighton to assure you that so far as I have been able to decide I consider him a steady industrious young man of strict integrity and who will attentively dischage the duties of district attorney I am Sir with the most sincere esteem & respect Your obt St T Worthington RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “The president of the U.S”; endorsed by TJ as received 27 Oct. and “Creighton to be District Atty v. Baldwin” and so recorded in SJL. Worthington last wrote to TJ on 18 Sep. In his letter of resignation to Madison, dated 9 Oct., Michael baldwin also
recommended William creighton, Jr., to be his successor as U.S. attorney, calling Creighton “a young Gentleman of talents & integrity & eminent in his profession” (DNA: RG 59, RD; endorsed by TJ: “Baldwin Michael resigns office of Dist. Atty”). TJ sent Creighton’s nomination to the Senate on 11 Dec.
From Albert Gallatin, with Jefferson’s Note [after 15 Oct. 1804?]
To be returned This man must necessarily be removed. Information will be obtained respecting a successor, when the members of Congress shall be here [Note by TJ:] he ought to be removed
Th:J.
RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR, file of James Frazier); undated, in Gallatin’s hand; TJ’s note written in a space above the body of the text. must necessarily be removed: Gallatin’s brief communication likely covered papers relating to James Frazier, the collector at Vienna, Maryland, who had
been behind in his accounts for at least three years (Vol. 34:280-1n). In a letter of 15 Oct., Frazier stated the many reasons why he was delinquent in settling his accounts, including his failure to secure repayment of a $600 loan, the loss of his dwelling, being forced to pay $700 as a security on another man’s bond, and the failure of his wheat crop. He asked if he
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16 OCTOBER 1804 could be indulged “till sometime the ensuing year,” when he would “be able to satisfy the whole” (DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Vienna Collector. Frazier James”). In addition, Alexander Smith, who had previously served as a deputy to former collector John Muir, advanced himself as a replacement for Frazier in a letter to Gallatin of 7 Oct., on the address sheet of which Gallatin made the notation “To be returned,” similar to the heading of the note printed above (same). Smith was recommended by Governor David Hall of Delaware on 30 Aug. and Vienna postmaster John Riddell on 27 Sep. (both in same, Hall’s letter endorsed by TJ: “Vienna Collector. Smith Alexr”; Stets, Postmasters, 142). Frazier strongly opposed Smith, calling him a “scotch taylor” and “sneaking sycophant,” and accused him of speaking out against Gallatin and TJ “in most contemptible terms” (Frazier to Gallatin, 22 Nov., in DNA: RG 59, LAR). Also vying to be Frazier’s successor was Algernon S. Stanford, the brother of Congressman Richard Stanford of North Carolina, who on 3 Dec. forwarded a recommendation of 26 Nov. from Dr. John Cropper of Cambridge, Maryland (both in same; Stanford’s letter endorsed by TJ, torn: “Vienna Collector. Stanford Algernon Si[dney]”). A letter by Senator Robert Wright of 13 Dec. enclosed addi-
tional recommendations of Algernon S. Stanford from Judge William Polk of 3 Nov. and Henry Waggaman of 30 Nov. (all in same; Wright’s letter endorsed by TJ: “Stanford A. S. to be Collector Vienna”). A 29 Nov. letter from Joseph Douglass to Wright and Congressman Joseph H. Nicholson likewise recommended Stanford, believing him to be “as firm a Democrat as his Brother Richard in Congress” (same). Commenting on Stanford’s recommendations in an undated note, Gallatin wrote “Douglass is a republican member of the Legislature—Doctr. Cropper is Register of the County. In 1796, he was the only republican voter in it— A.G.” In a second note regarding the two candidates, Gallatin stated “Full confidence may be placed in Judge Polk’s and Cropper’s recommendations; they are, especially the first, the most respectable republicans of that Tory County; both agree in recommending Stanford— Smith is not a Republican—A.G.” (both in same, Stanford file). Frazier resigned in early 1805, claiming that the emoluments of the office were “by no means adaquate to the support of my family” (Frazier to Madison, 3 Jan. 1805, in same, Frazier file; endorsed by TJ: “Frazier James. Collector of Vienna resigns”). TJ nominated Stanford to succeed Frazier as the Vienna collector (TJ to the Senate, 28 Jan. 1805).
From James Gamble Sir Phila: 16th. Octr. 1804 It is a privilege which your constituents will I trust always prudently exercise, and which you will on the present Occasion attribute to a pure motive of addressing you on Matters involving the Standing of a political Character or immediatly relating to the State of political concerns. It may perhaps be still in your recollection that some time ago, I took the liberty of applying to you either for the Office of Surveyor of the Port of Phila: in case the Gentleman who then held it was removed, or that of the Naval Officer in the Custom-house here. Without being sanguine in my expectations of Success I rested contented, that you would exercise your Judgment in giving the preference to a man who in your Opinion had the greatest claims on your 547
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attention. In such a case whatever would be your decision, I could experience no disappointment particularly too since I can well Suppose it to be a delicate task; the exercise of the power of appointment to offices under the General Government. There is no man, I may venture to Say among the great body of your constituents, who acquiesces more cheerfully in all the measures of your Administration than I. If I might venture an opinion, I would Say that the present Surveyor Dr. Bache is a good officer. These Observations have been drawn from me by Several paragraphs which appeared in the Aurora which you will have read. The Editor appears to have been induced to them from a knowledge of my opposition to Dr. Leib. What connection however my opposition to the Dr. has with the application for the office of Surveyor of the Port of Philadelphia I confess I am at a loss to determine. had I Solicited the interest of the Dr. with effect, I would not be surprised that at this distant day the Malevolance of a political resentment should have Singled me out as its object. No sir my opposition to him proceeds from reasons with which I shall not attempt to trouble you, They have been publicly given since the commencement of the Division among the Republicans of the City and County of Phila. My Votes in the Senate of Pennsylvania in respect to the Amendment of the Constitution of the United States, proposed by Congress at its last Session and the Electoral Ticket for President and Vice President of the U. States may perhaps carry with them a proof, that Principle may be Supported when Dr. Leib is not. I fear I have trespassed too much on your patience but I cannot close this confidential communication without returning you my warmest thanks for the prompt and polite answer which you returned to a letter from Messrs. Biddle Douglas & Myself in behalf of our Sons Who are prisoners in Tripoli; Assuring you Sincerely that no times can efface the gratitude I feel for your Services. With Sentiments of the highest Esteem I am your obt. Humble Servt James Gamble RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 18 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. some time ago: Gamble had applied for the positions of surveyor and naval officer the previous year (Vol. 41:605-7).
On 1 Oct., the aurora published an attack on Gamble as a frustrated office seeker and potential ally of the Federalists. For TJ’s polite answer concerning the author’s son, see TJ to Charles Biddle, 30 May, answering Biddle, Gamble, and John Douglass of 25 May.
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To Justus Erich Bollmann Dear Sir Washington Oct. 17. 04. Your favor of the 4th. is at hand, and I am glad to hear of the arrival of the wine. the price per bottle is higher indeed than you had expected; but taking size and quality into consideration, it comes welcome. the other kinds of wine, being sweet, are not to the taste of this country, and being so high priced are less desirable: but I have no hesitation at relieving you from them. on any subsequent demand we must caution them not to send what is not ordered. if you will be so good as to send the wines by the first vessel bound to Alexandria, Georgetown or Washington I shall be obliged to you. if to Alexandria, to the address of mr Deblois merchant of that place. in the commencement of the ensuing month I will remit you the amount. if you could advise me how my friend in Hamburg should address himself to obtain the Wine of the quality I had chosen, I should deem it a favor merely as it would enable me to get it through another channel in the event of any accident to you, or of it’s being out of your line of business. You once wished to be our Commercial agent in St. Domingo. in the part possessed by the insurgents we are forbidden intercourse. but in the other part, tho’ held by the Spaniards it is for the use of the French & under the controul of their General Ferrand, who wishes us to send an agent to the city of Santo Domingo. we mean to ask mr Pichon’s permission to do so, and if it will suit your views to go there you shall be nominated. be so good as to write me your determination as soon as you can make up your mind, only keeping in view that it all depends on mr Pichon’s permission or connivance. Accept my friendly salutations and respects. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Doctr. Bollman”; endorsed by TJ. Bollmann sought an appointment as commercial agent at Santo Domingo in his letter to TJ of 22 Nov. 1803. Another candidate, William Walton, Jr., more recently sent several letters to the State Department expressing his interest in the post. Writing to Madison from Baltimore on 18 Aug., Walton claimed the French commander at Santo Domingo, General Jean Louis Ferrand, expressed to him a desire to protect American trade and pointed out the need for a U.S. representative to “diminish the confusion of
capture” and aid “the poor seamen that are thrown deserted on those coasts.” Walton assured Madison that Ferrand would “receive me in that character & afford me his protection” (DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Walton Wm. to be Consul at Sto. Domingo”). Writing to Madison again several days later, Walton stated his plan to return to Santo Domingo and repeated his interest in an appointment as commercial agent (DNA: RG 59, LAR, 12:69-70, endorsed by TJ: “Walton, Wm. to be Consul at Sto. Domingo”; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:629). On 28 Sep., on the verge of his departure for Santo Domingo, Walton
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17 OCTOBER 1804 wrote to State Department clerk Daniel Brent and again expressed his willingness to render service to Americans there (DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ:
“Walton Wm. to be Consul of Santo Domingo. he is an Englishman. rejd. by Senate”).
From Uriah Smith Sir, Grafton. State N.H. & County of Grafton. Octr. 17. 1804— The auther of these republican Catechise, wishes to make a present of them to his Excellency, whilest he makes this appology for imposeing them on him; (viz) When he wrote them he had not the least thought of sending of them to the greatest Charracter in America: but after they were read to some of his friends, they propos’d the thing, allowing they were printed—which I now (tho’ diffidently) have consented to do, chiefly because I have made so much use of his name, in the sequel— Am happy in haveing this advantage in sending of them to his Excellency; (viz) I am sertain he will know what to do with them— Also can assure myself that he knows how to make allowance for every thing which respects weakness, or ignorance—knowing they are the production of the federal zone, from which nothing interesting can be expected— The cause of so strange composition as this, was owing to the Federal opposition we met with in these parts, for two years past— That his Excellency would not take any exceptions for this intrusion— nor think aney mor slighty of the auther—or the state—or town to which he belongs—But if he is displeas’d, to impute it wholy to weakness— is the desin of his Excellency’s obedient, humble servent— Uriah Smith RC (DLC); addressed: “His Excellency the President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 31 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures not found. Uriah Smith was likely the individual who served as pastor of a Baptist church in Grafton during the 1780s and 1790s. Having affiliated with the nascent Christian Connection organization, he relocated to Woodstock, Vermont, where he continued his pastoral work (Isaac Backus, A History of New-England, with Particular Reference to the Denomination of Christians Called Baptists, 3 vols. [1777-96],
3:103; John Asplund, The Universal Annual Register, of the Baptist Denomination, in North America; for the Years 1794 and 1795 [Hanover, N.H., 1796], 9; Lewis Cass Aldrich and Frank R. Holmes, eds., History of Windsor County, Vermont, with Illustrations and Biographical Sketches of Some of Its Prominent Men and Pioneers [Syracuse, N.Y., 1891], 259-60; The Christian’s Magazine, Reviewer, and Religious Intelligencer, 1 [1805], 250-7; Concord Courier of New Hampshire, 24 Feb. 1803; Portsmouth, N.H., Herald of Gospel Liberty, 8 Dec. 1808).
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From Christopher Greenup Sir Frankfort K. October 18th. 1804 I am informed that the Offices of Collector and Surveyor at the Port of New-Orleans is now Vacant, and that Mr. John Clay formerly of this State but for several years has resided at New Orleans will probably apply for one of those Offices. I therefore beg leave to inform you that from many years acquaintance with Mr. Clay I can recommend him as a Gentleman of great Honour and integretary; he is well acquainted with the police and trade of that Country and of many of the West India Islands,—And I do firmly believe that in case he should meet with your approbation, in an appointment, that he will discharge the duties thereof with ability and punctuality. Be pleased to accept a tender of my sincere Respects Christr. Greenup RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “President of the U.S.”; endorsed by TJ as received 3 Dec. and so recorded in SJL with a brace connecting it to letters received on the same date from John
Breckinridge of 22 Oct., Thomas Hart and others of 20 Oct., and John Rowan of 19 Oct., and the notation “John Clay to be Collector or Surveyor N.O.”
From Abiel Holmes Sir, Cambridge (N. Eng.) Oct. 18, 1804. Knowing your taste for history, I take the liberty to offer you one or two historical tracts, composed for the Historical Society, and published in their Collections. I have, for several years, been collecting and arranging materials for a Chronological History of America, and have, at length, ventured to offer Proposals for publishing a work, under the title of American Annals. It will be comprized in two octavo volumes, and is intended to embrace the primary articles of American history, from the first discovery of the country to the present time. On the subject of American Treaties I have not pleasing authorities. If you Sir, could either forward me any publication on this subject, or refer me to it, or if, through your influence, I may obtain a mere list of American Treaties from the time of the late Revolution; with their exact dates, through the medium of the Secretary of the United States, you would greatly honour and oblige, Sir, Your obedt. humble Servant Abiel Holmes. 551
18 OCTOBER 1804 RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 5 Nov. and so recorded in SJL with notation “with pamphlets.” Enclosures: (1) Abiel Holmes, A Memoir of the Moheagan Indians (Boston, 1804); Sowerby, No. 527. (2) Holmes, The History of Cambridge (Boston, 1801); Sowerby, No. 528. Abiel Holmes (1763-1837), a Connecticut native, graduated from Yale University in 1783 and became a Congregational minister, serving as pastor of the First Church in Cambridge, Massachusetts, from 1792 to 1831. The grandfather of Supreme Court justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., he was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and was a longstanding member of the Massachusetts Historical Society, for whom he served as corresponding secretary. In addition to writing many sermons and the two enclosed tracts, he published a biography of Ezra Stiles, his first father-in-law,
in 1798 and American Annals in 1805 (Franklin Bowditch Dexter, Biographical Sketches of the Graduates of Yale College with Annals of the College History, 6 vols. [New York, 1885-1912], 4:277-85; anb, s.v. “Oliver Wendell Holmes”; Greenfield, Mass., Greenfield Gazette, 3 June 1805). published in their collections: Holmes’s tract on the history of Cambridge was published in the Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society for 1800, 1st ser. (1801), 7:1-67. His tract on the Mohegans first appeared in the Collections, 1st ser. (1804), 9:75-99. According to Holmes’s proposals, the chronological historical work would begin with the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492 and be offered by subscription for $1.75 per volume in boards or $2 for a bound volume (Newburyport Herald, 31 Aug.; Boston Democrat, 19 Sep.; Greenfield Gazette, 3 June 1805).
From Benjamin H. Latrobe Dear Sir, Capitol Octr. 18th. 1804 I accept with pleasure the favor of Your invitation to dinner tomorrow, and will come to the house at such an hour, with the workmen, as to put the work you propose into immediate execution. After waiting upon you yesterday, I examined the whole of the lower part of the building with a view to a supply of water to the Washhouse by means of the proposed forcing pump, and by this means have become well assured of the utility & easy practicability of the proposed mode of cleansing the drain. I am with true respect Your faithfully B H Latrobe RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 18 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
From Meyer Monsieur le Président Paris ce 18e 8be. 1804. Les bontes dont vous m’avez honnoré me font ésperer que vous acceuillerez favorablement la grace que je prends la liberté de vous demander. 552
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Un de mes neveux haut forestier du Canton de Berne désireroit faire jouir sa patrie des végéteaux de l’amerique Septentrionale qui peuvent lui etre utile; trompé par differentes graines qui lui ont été fournies j’ose vous prier de me faire parvenir celles dont je joins la note pour qu’il puisse etre Certain de remplir son intention. Convaincu par mon éxpérience du plaisir que vous avez d’obliger elle me sert d’excuse au pres de vous si je derobe quelque moment, d’un temps que vous employez si utilement pour le bonheur des vos semblables. Oserois je aussi Monsieur le Président vous prier de me donner des nouvelles de Monsieur Mazei, si vous en avez, depuis le désastre de la Pologne je suis dans une entiere ignorance sur son sort. Permettez moi de vous assurer des sentiments respectueux avec les quels jai lhonneur detre Monsieur le Président Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur Meyer Cadet e d i t o r s’
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Mister President, Paris, 18 Oct. 1804 The kindness with which you have honored me gives me hope that you will look favorably upon the request I take the liberty of addressing to you. One of my nephews, a woodsman from the Canton of Bern, would like to cultivate North American plants that can be useful to him. Since he has received many incorrect seeds, I dare ask you to send me those on the attached list so he can be sure of fulfilling his goal. Knowing from my own experience that you take pleasure in being of service justifies my stealing a few moments of the time you so productively devote to the happiness of your fellow men. Do I dare ask you, too, Mister President, for news of Mr. Mazzei, if you have any? I have received absolutely no news since the Polish disaster. Allow me to assure you, Mister President, of the respectful feelings with which I have the honor of being your very humble and obedient servant. Meyer the Younger RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Collection); below dateline: “quai et place de la monoie cy devant Conti No: 8” (“Quai and Place de la Monnaie, in front of Conti No. 8”); endorsed by TJ as received 17 Feb. 1805 and so recorded in SJL. TJ probably became acquainted with Meyer in the 1780s while serving as minister to France. Writing to TJ in October 1785 from Paris, Philip Mazzei men-
tioned visiting the house of a Mr. Meyer, who accompanied Mazzei on a visit to see Charles Williamos. Meyer may have been Paris watchmaker François Meyer, from whom TJ purchased watches in 1786 and 1789 (Tardy, Dictionnaire des horlogers français, 2 vols. [Paris, 1971-72], 2:460; G. H. Baillie, Watchmakers and Clockmakers of the World, 2d ed. (London, 1947), 218; mb, 1:628, 727; Vol. 8:675-9; Vol. 20:664).
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List of Seeds Acer negondo Betula lenta Cupressus Thyoides Cupressus distecha Fagus Castanea Fagus pumila Juglans nigra Juglans oblonga sencinerea Juglans alba Juglans glabra Liriodendron Tulipifera Juniperus Virginiona Pinus Strobus Pinus laricina Pinus balsamea Pinus americana Pinus canadensis Pinus mariana Platanus occidentalis Prunus podus Virginiona Quercus rubra Quercus alba Quercus nigra Quercus prinus Si Monsieur Jeferson pouvoit indiquer une Maison Soit a Philadelphie soit a Newyork a la qu’elle on put s’adresser avec Confiance—par la Suite il obligeroit beaucoup. e d i t o r s’
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If Mr. Jefferson could suggest a reliable purveyor, in Philadelphia or New York, to whom we might address future orders of plants, we would be very grateful. MS (same); undated; in Meyer’s hand.
From Gideon Fitz Sir, Washington Missisipi Territory Oct. 19th. 1804 I have receiv’d your letter of the 17th. Sept., and will immediately proceed to make the best enquires for the “mammoth bones”—but it is doubtful whether as many of them can be procured now, as was 554
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recoverable in the early part of the summer:—it is said that some of them have been worked-up, and were very beautiful ivory. Mr. Brown (from Kentucky,) who will leave here in a few days, has been so good as to promis his attention to the box when it arrives in Orleans, and will see it forwarded on as soon as convenient I will write you the expences &c; as soon as made known. I am happy to learn that health has prevailed in the neighbourhood of Monticello;—tho it has been my unfortunate and unhappy lot to loose a benevolent and dearly beloved parent. The latter part of the summer here has proved extremely unhealthy & fatal to a good many; but the cool season seems to be approaching, which, it is hoped will be more favourable. This morning we had a slight frost. Mr. Richardson has not yet arrived here. We have not had the satisfaction of hearing any account of Mr. Briggs since he left Monticello. I have the Honor to be with the highest respect & esteem your most Humbl. & Ob. Servant Gideon Fitz P.S. I conjecture you have before this heard of the Death of Mr. Trist as well as of many others in Orleans. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Th: Jefferson P.U.S.”; endorsed by TJ as received 13 Nov. and so recorded in SJL.
From Albert Gallatin [19 Oct. 1804]
Is not the enclosed in the same hand writing with the anonymous letter from N. Orleans charging a certain officer (presumed to be Gen. Wilk.) with corruption by Sp. Govt.? A. G. RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25388); undated; addressed: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 19 Oct. 1804 and “on the N.O. Anon.” and so recorded in SJL, but as received 18 Oct. Enclosure not found.
anonymous letter from n. orleans: “An American Citizen” to TJ, [23 June 1804], which TJ believed was written by Pierre Derbigny.
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From Horatio Gates Dear Sir Rose Hill 19th: October, 1804: I am charm’d with your instituting Gunn Boats; for I believe them to be the properest Defence for large Harbours that has hitherto been imagin’d; these, Cooperating with small Batteries of Heavy Guns, upon the projecting Heights near the Water, are much better, & infinitely less expensive than Fix’d, and large Fortifications; the French, who are the best Judges, of Artillery and Engineering of any Nation in Europe, adopt this plan of Defending their Harbours; The Effects of it are too well known in England;—I know not, if you have seen a publication which appeared in Paris in May 1802, Entitled Lettres d’un Observateur sur la Marine, it is well worth your perusal, much usefull information may be derived from it, for the defence of our Harbours, and Our Astonishingly increasing Commerce; a paltry Frigate dare not then Insult us, as has been, & now is done in the Harbour of New York:—I am convinced you are too good a Statesman not to wellcome usefull Information even when it comes from the pen of an Enemy; Mr. William Cobbet has publish’d ever since January 1802, a New Annual Register; a large Octavo, is publish’d every Six Months; that is, from June, to January; & from January, to June; You will find in it, the best brief abstract of The Times, Great Events, Characters of leading Men, & Opinions of New Publications, that has hitherto appeared in England; You can direct Monroe to send it as it comes Out, it will be a proper Book for The Public Library at Washington;— The Author, is now in Gaol, & Furious against Pit, & the present Ministry.—Esteeming Mr. Dawson a Confidential Friend of Yours, I have charg’d him with this Letter, He Dines with me alone to day; we shall enjoy much conversation upon You, & your Administration, which I am Gratefull in Declaring is the best that can be imagin’d for the Land we live in; nay, do not think I Flatter, for I want not Advancement, or Office; I speak what I verily believe; go on good Sir as long as you Govern, in the same Excellent Trust; and Your encreasing Constituents will wish you to live as long as you have Abillities to Rule; by that time, I trust you will Fix Republican principles upon so Firm a Foundation as not to be Intrigued away.—I have heard that Your Commissary of Military Stores is Dead; This is an Office that requires a person of Experience, & Talents, to Execute it properly; and will one day be of high Importance in the United States; I know but one Man that is Equal to it; That Man Commanded my Artillery at Saratoga, was afterwards at The taking of Cornwallis, and received the thanks of The Governour & Council of Maryland for Driving off 556
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the English Frigates, that previously Blockaded Their port which Liberated the Artillery, & Stores, that were wanted for the Seige of York: He is now become Rich, and Independent, by Industry & increasing Trade; under His Superintendance The Ordnance Stores both Great and Small would at all Times be ready for Service: but I answer not for what Men may be, I only represent to you what I think they are; General Stevens is a Massachusetts Man, and intimate with the Secretary at War; who is well acquainted with His Merits, at any rate, you have this power in your own Hands, & can at any moment displace the unworthy Officer—but I would not have wrote so much in Favour of Him, if I had the least Suspicion He would not fullfill in the best Manner all the Duties of an Office committed to His charge: Fate has done much for the Civil Liberty of this Country; and so long as we can avoid the Wars, the Crimes, & Follies, of the Nations of the Old World, I trust we shall continue to be Favoured.—I leave the rest to be said by Our Mutual Friend Mr. Dawson, having already intruded perhaps to much upon that Time, which is so precious to you, & to the Public Service;—I only desire to be permitted to add my earnest wish for your Health, & Long, Long continuance to Govern The United States.—I beseech You to beleive me your Faithfull Friend, and most Obedient Servant Horatio Gates. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esq”; endorsed by TJ as received 28 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. lettres d’un observateur sur la marine: the book Gates referenced contained the recommendations of the French minister of the marine and of the colonies on the subjects of naval construction and harbor defense (Tulard, Dictionnaire Na-
poléon, 745; Pierre Alexandre Forfait, Lettres d’un observateur sur la marine, sur son organisation actuelle, et sur la guerre continentale et maritime en général [Paris, 1802]). For the actions of the British frigate Cambrian, see TJ to Dearborn, 23 June. Gates had previously recommended Ebenezer stevens in 1802 (Vol. 36:573).
To Meriwether Jones Dear Sir Washington Oct. 19. 04. I recieved last night your favor of the 15th. I have but a single copy of the pamphlet you ask for, and that is bound up in a volume of pamphlets of the same year and making one of a long suite of volumes of the same nature I mention this to impress you with the value I set on the volume as part of the history of the times, and to justify a request of attention in the use and return of it. it happens that mr Duval sets out this afternoon for Richmond & furnishes an opportunity of conveying it to you. it should be noted in the republication that the title, 557
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the motto and the preface were of the editors, and, with the piece itself, were printed without my knolege. I had drawn the paper at home, sat out for the convention; was taken ill on the road, & sent on the paper to Peyton Randolph moderator of the convention. it was laid by him on the table of the convention for the perusal of the members, and by them justly deemed ahead of the sentiments of the times: but some of them deemed it useful to publish it, & they affixed the title, epigraph & preface. I was informed by parson Hurt who was in England when it arrived there, that it ran through several editions there. as to the humble petition to the king in 1775. which I have been charged with drawing & signing, every body knows it was drawn by mr Dickinson, & the journals shew it was reported to congress some days before I took my seat there. the opposition to it was almost universal, and we let it pass at last merely because those who advocated it declared that if the king should not answer it satisfactorily they would then go all lengths with us. to produce this unanimity we let it pass, and we all signed it, because the king would not recieve a paper from the President of Congress. Accept my friendly salutations & assurances of great esteem. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Meriwether Jones esq.” pamphlet: A Summary View of the Rights of British America. Set Forth in Some Resolutions Intended for the Inspection of the Present Delegates of the People of Virginia. Now in Convention (Williamsburg, 1774); Sowerby, No. 3085; Vol. 1:669-76. TJ had assembled 11 titles printed in 1774 into one bound octavo volume of pamphlets (see Sowerby, 3:253).
Ascribed to “A Native, and Member of the House of Burgesses,” the pamphlet, printed by Clementina Rind in Williamsburg, opened with an epigraph in Latin by Cicero with its English translation. A brief preface stated that the author’s “personal attendance was prevented by an accidental illness” and that publication of the pamphlet was “without the knowledge of the author” (Evans, No. 13350). humble petition to the king: see TJ to Samuel Harrison Smith, [19 July].
From John F. Mercer Dear Sir West River Oct. 19th. 1804. In acknowledging your favr. of the 9th. I cannot perhaps more forceably express the value I place on the frank & friendly sentiments it contains, than by offering as frank & as friendly a reply.—My giving a recommendation to Mr. Harwood was not as I observ’d a volunteer act, it was sollicited by him & I felt my compliance warranted by a conviction of his worth, by the friendly sentiments you had so frequently express’d towards me & by correspondent feelings of my own 558
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bosom. I felt no other sensation therefore on his failure than a sincere regreet, that unsullied probity added to punctuality & ability in the discharge of those official duties had faild in that promotion, which whilst it rewards, encourages merit. But you must pardon me when I add that the appointment of Mr. Hall excited very different feelings; I confess I felt petrified—& sure I am that you have not a respectable friend in the World that knew him, but must have felt surprize & mortification.—be assurd that it gave rise to but one sentiment here among all parties & all classes.— That this Gentleman cannot spell a letter of five lines must be known to all who have seen his letters uncorrected by others:—this possibly may be no disqualification for the highest offices; but that he cannot add up five lines of figures, which I can readily beleive from what I have observ’d myself & from the information of others & that he has been regularly under execution at each successive term of the General & County Courts for some years past, for taylors bills, tavern expences &c &c (facts of public notoriety here) are matters I suppose that materially interest the United States whose Monies he is exclusively intrusted to distribute, as far as the Citizens of Maryland are concernd.—There is however one consolation that the appointment will probably produce a sale or transfer to some other office of the public funds held here, unless he engages Mr. Harwood to do the business by giving him the entire direction of the Office—To myself individually this appointment certainly bears a relation on which I cannot forbear to remark more fully. After insufferable provocations I had publickly accus’d mr. Hall of perjury on the information of Mr. John T. Mason;—perhaps I sufferd myself to be hurried into this step as far as it involv’d Mr. Mason: that Gentleman thought proper to deny & to equivocate, but as the information he gave me was in the presence of others, whose veracity woud admit of no impeachment where they were known, the public opinion never hesitated here—but entirely to waive all information deriv’d from that source.—Mr. Hall admitted a transaction, which I contended did amount to a subornation of perjury—the procuring another to swear what woud have been perjury in him if he had sworn it himself. for the Law in the case I relied on Blackstone, & if the authorities cited by him do not support his opinion it is perhaps the single case of material error in his valuable work: On examination I did beleive that his authorities did not support his opinion & that alone prevented a criminal prosecution.— Let the transaction therefore be taken agreably to his own statements by which it appeard “That he obtained an Injunction in a cause in 559
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which he was a real party, by administring as a Magistrate an Oath to his own brother” That he was informd & verily beleivd that a Sum of money was paid &c &c” That he acknowledgd that he was his brothers sole informant, & that he had never receivd such information himself, that the money really was not paid at that time & that it still continued unpaid to the person to whom it was thus sworn to be paid, & that in the mean time he had receivd it himself” & you have then before you a case that will speak for itself without any comment of mine. Justice & delicacy woud have prevented my stating one word of this to you in this manner, if I had not long since publishd the whole & much more in the public papers & in Hand-bills.—My motive for repeating it now, you will presently perceive.—But Mr. Hall has been elected a member of the House of Representatives— Speaker—& a Member of the Executive Council.—He was certainly elected young & unknown into the Legislature from local causes.— on the change of the majority he was made Speaker, but had you been better acquainted with this State you woud have known that this office is at any time no great indication of respect here.—that Mr. Hall was elected into the Council I might perhaps take chiefly on myself—a tolerable exterior, & the interest he appeard to take in my affairs recommended him to me, tho otherwise unknown— That he has been re-elected into the Council notwithstanding the charges I made is true & I might add by the same party spirit which makes a saint of Hamilton, a Member of Congress of McFarland & woud elect the Devil tomorrow in preference to the true God.—But still there were other circumstances that led to this. My difference with the Council became public by my refusing to appoint as Commissioners the two democratic Leaders of each house of the Legislature, these men carried with them a party that had been accustomd to their direction & at the next Session aided by means which I shall explain had rais’d a spirit so hostile to me, that I was deserted by almost all the democratic Members: the Party as it was call’d was summond to caucus at the commencement of the Session; persuaded that I had very dangerous views & that to suppress me, it was absolutely necessary to support the old Council against me—a Ticket was thus agreed to & carried. before the close of the Session, the aspect was chang’d, my democratic friends became sensible of the injustice of the aspersions & the folly of their conduct; warm advances were made by several of the most respectable of them & assurances given me that the conduct from several of the Counties woud change. Indeed I have seen agreably to that promise that the Bell-Weather Mr. Montgomery (who nominated Mr. Hall) has nearly lost his Election & is probably 560
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elected for the last time: under these appearances, the people have been sounded, to know whether Mr. Hall coud be appointed a member of Congress for this District, & I understand that they hooted at the idea in both Counties.—As the last resource you have been applied to & your appointment of this man, to one of the most confidential offices of Government, whilst it fully sanctions his conduct with your approbation, carries with it the strongest condemnation of mine to the same extent & confirms the idea which these people have constantly inculcated here, of the very little estimation in which I was held by you—Indeed as Mr. Hall was known here to be totally unfit for the office & had no other prominence than from his conduct to me, a general impression exists (I beleive) with both parties, that the appointment was expressly intended to injure me as far as possible in the public estimation & to ruin my interest with the people as far as your influence woud extend, & in this view that it woud necessarily encourage every volunteer unprincipled raggamuffin, to treat me with atrocity, as a recommendation to the favors of Government.—That such was the object I coud not beleive but whatever may have been the object, such will not be the effect, both myself and Mr. Hall are too well known to admit of any material change in the public opinion here with respect to either of us.—You had been kind to me in my youth & in return a personal attachment to you, had grown up & operated with me uniformly thro’ life. As to any part I may have taken in your elections & the consequences that may have resulted either as they respected me or yourself, they are a subject on which you have never heard one word from me & never will.—Those exertions were unsought by you—they were voluntary on my part, & as they flow’d from principle I claimd no merit with any one for doing what I considerd as my duty. However as they coud not be unknown in this part of the World, I felt confounded when I was informd soon after your election that Mr. R. Smith in a mixd company in Baltimore, had made use of the following language or words to that effect “That he had sufficient authority for saying, that Mr. Jefferson knew me too well, ever to trust me with any appointment of consequence”—As this information came thro’ ladies, it was impossible to pursue it to an ecclaircissement.—I felt that independant of friendship or delicacy, you must do me the justice to say that in five & twenty years acquaintance you had known nothing of me inconsistent with the most rigid probity & strictest honor, & therefore to authorize such language of a Gentleman who had kept aloof from all the avenues to office—who had not even wrote you a letter of congratulation on your election & who had even openly declard it as a principle with him to accept of 561
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no office, that any Individual on Earth, coud either give or take away, was an insult as unnecessary as ungenerous—thus impress’d I really did not & coud not beleive it—but I acknowledge that the report, & the exultation of my late opponents had too much influence in inducing me to accept of the Office of Governor, which when propos’d to me 12 Years before I had declin’d rather with contempt. Altho I was elected by a Party Governor of the State, yet I felt the full force of the obligations I had assumd. I had really never been a party man at any period of my life.—those who have acted with me in public must know it—I had always detested party & had ever expressd my abhorrence of it in public & private as the grave of public virtue & the canker-worm of every free Government.—I was determin’d therefore to act as the Governor of the whole State & not a part of it, or cease to act as Governor at all.—I had prepard myself for difficulties but I confess they surpass’d my expectation.—The first violent ebullitions of party-Spirit were firmly repressd;—but I soon found that men unus’d to power & rank in Society when suddenly elevated to office, are generally disappointed.—the charms of novelty vanish with the possession & they are disgusted to find that Society has not undergone a similar revolution with the State & that as Individuals they are not remov’d from their former niches.—their imagind object appears still a head & they look for in farther & more violent changes, the ultimate gratification of their vanity & resentment.—It was this that destind to destruction every Institution in this State on which the safety of person & property depended:—And in Government the evil intended by party-violence, is always the least that society sustains— the precedent is always improv’d upon by their opponents when they have the power. Some of the proscribd Institutions here were inseperably connected with the local interests of that part of the state to which I am attachd by property & residence. The repeal of the County Court Law I had submitted to with apprehension & had contrivd by the manner of executing it, to render it a popular measure—this however encouragd the evil & brought on a change not only involving all the Tribunals of justice, even that erected by themselves the year before, but introductive of principles incompatible with any sound or safe Government.—Under these circumstances I coud not hesitate as to the part my duty prescribd—Nor coud I bear the idea, that my neighbours, my friends, & a County that had so long confided in me, shoud be injurd in their property & deprivd of their most valuable Institutions by a political change, which I had been so instrumental in persuading them to adopt:—it became absolutely necessary to oppose the torrent & I beleiv’d that if I coud not do it, no other man in 562
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the State coud or woud. But this was by no means an hasty determination. No previous entreaty, argument or remonstrance was omitted by me with the Leaders of the party: finally I avowd that I should quit the Government & offer myself to the People to oppose their measures: but my arguments & menaces were equally disregarded. Those who know the then situation of the State must know, that no other solid support of the Courts, coud be depended upon but from fœderalists, we coud only count on eight or nine Democrats & even some of them faild us; no other practicable plan then coud be devis’d for saving them but the union of a certain portion of the more moderate fœderalists with the moderate Democrats, forming an independant interest that might restrain each party within the limits prescribd by the true public interest.—It was this I labourd to effect, not by a sacrifice of principle myself or requiring it of others, it coud not be understood that any such sacrifice was necessary where the co-operation intended, was on points on which we had never disagreed.—No man coud possibly be more averse to the restoration of the Fœderalists as a party to their former power—but I wish’d them & still do wish them so much power as when united with moderate men of opposite principles may restrain the thoughtless & violent—I was aware indeed of the hazard of trying experiments with public bodies of men whose sympathies & passions may carry them beyond any calculated event.—but no time was to be lost, I seriously consulted Mr. Madison as to the effect it might have on the General Government, assuring him that if he thought it might jeopardize your administration I woud desist, but he declind giving any opinion.—Left to myself I knew my own powers & I knew the extent beyond which the intellects of my opponents woud never suffer them to range, but the turn the opposition took I coud never have foreseen nor that I was to be borne down by the name of the general Government. During the contest in the County, Mr John Johnston in my presence told an assemblage of 500 Persons “that he was authorizd to say, that if the opinion of the heads of the Department coud prevail, I woud get very few Votes in Ann Arundel, & Mr. Hall & Doctor Ghiselin, two members of the Council applied directly to two of my most influential democratic friends & askd them “If they shoud produce to them unquestionable proof, that you were decidedly hostile to me, Whether they woud then give me up? It was this borrow’d aid that gave to these pigmies for a moment a Giant-like force.—Master however of the principles I had undertaken to defend, I felt the same confidence when I stood alone as if the State had been at my back—My opponents I knew wou’d do their own business—Since the Session I have never mov’d one step out of my 563
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way—I have mixd in no public meetings & heard of all their caucuses with contempt: they felt the progress of public opinion against them & unable to retard it, you may judge of the poverty of their resources, by One of the Council announcing to one of my friends, that my respectable friend Doctor Dorsey had got an appointment from the general Government which woud remove him from the County adding with a significant sneer, “What think you of your Colonels Election now? This prov’d at once the association in his mind,—a similar impression I beleiv’d generally prevaild with others, When to crown the whole Mr. Hall under all the circumstances before dilated on receives one of the most confidential & lucrative appointments in the gift of the President of the United States.—On this Event I have no hesitation in avowing my mortification:—In this however be assurd Mr. Hall bears no part whatever—my resentments against him lasted little longer than the moments of irritation—our walks in life are so entirely distinct, that his idea can hardly cross my mind twice in a twelve-month, & had Buonaparte made him Arch Chancellor of his Empire, I confess I shoud have been well pleasd.—But it was an act of yours that seem’d to have disseverd me from your friendship under circumstances no less imperative than painful. Nor am I sensible that this procedure has arisen from any demerit of mine: I am indeed no Stranger to the absurd reports which have been propagated & to which you allude.—But what is it that party will not assert in these times? Was there or could there be any proof? If my own disavowal at all times was not satisfactory, did not its very absurdity disprove it?— Was it possible for me, for whom the People have ever discoverd a fond attachment wherever I have gone—An Attachment not to be shaken or seducd by the frowns or favors of Power & who have sought to honor me by every appointment in their gift; was it possible (I repeat) for me to abandon their rights & interests or lessen their power & influence to increase that of their Rulers? I who have experienc’d little else, but injustice & injury from men in power all my life? & who have been barkd at by every dirty Puppy in office since I came into public life? Some there are indeed who owe to me their offices & their bread too who have turnd to bite me before, they had well turnd themselves in their Kennells. My Politics now and always have been very simple—they have been fundamentally the same thro’ life & ever openly declard.—I was decidedly oppos’d to the adoption of the fœderal Government & was term’d an Antifœderal with about as much justice as one generally experiences from party—all the objections I then urg’d against the Constitution have been since confirm’d by experience.—they chiefly 564
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were that they changd the principle of our Government from Republican to Monarchical. I had ever beleivd & still do beleive that the People themselves are the best Elector’s of their own Officers & where they cannot well be brought into action, I woud prefer those large Assemblages of functionaries who partake most of the qualities of the people—Where the source of the appointment remains with the people themselves or even a numerous body of Representatives, the route to office must be by open generous, disinterested & independant efforts to serve them—public virtue & patriotism will constitute the best claims to office & that species of virtue which alone can support republican Institutions becomes gradually the basis of private character & the only means by which even Ambition can mount to power:— but when One man or a few men appoint—the access to office is too generally by intrigue cunning flattery & servility—How seldom have we read in history of a single magistrate or a secret Council employing the disinterested or independant? they are rejected because too unaccommodating—it appears to be more flattering to self-love to seek out some servile cringing dependant & to say—this man owes his greatness all to me—the more weak or even the more wicked, the more dependant he must be on me—As he has risen, so he must fall with me; I may therefore safely rely on his attachment—Such has been generally & I fear too often will be the sentiment & language of power in all ages & all climes.—Such is the genius of monarchy & I lamented that altho’ it was not the basis, it was made the dome that connected & crownd the Pillars of our Constitution.— I lamented also that the great & indeed only security of a Confederation of Republics was destroyd by so far consolidating the general Government as to sink the distinctive spirit of seperate States—a diversity of State-interests, prejudices & parties (for parties will exist in some degree where there is freedom) acting without uniformity, & frequently counteracting each other leave the great majority of the component members sound & cool to repress the agitations of a part.— Parties in politics like sects in Religion can only be divested of their danger by multiplying their number & diversifying their objects. Now one universal sympathy pervades the whole Continent on every public question—the individuality of states is solv’d into two great parties, which as they alternately command the majority will inflict increasing injuries on each other, untill violence & rancour with their concomitants anarchy & bloodshed can admit of no other remedy than the bayonet of a military Despot.— General Washington might have ended the drama before it well began, but a Royal or hereditary Government cannot be established here 565
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now without some military force, & it will not, I apprehend, require a large one, but from the contempt of the Military for the Civil character, I suppose it must be by a military leader.—Unless therefore effectual measures are taken to calm the anemosity & rancour of party, I do apprehend that the first war we are engaged in will verify my predictions that the Fœderal Government must soon terminate in a military despotism—An unambitious, unenterprizing man may be selected to command the Army, but he can never hold the station—An Army presupposes something more than mortal in him who commands & little more than passive mechanism in those who obey.—As the stronger spirits must ascend when mixd with a weaker medium, so genius & enterprize will find their way to the head of the Army, or there will soon be no Army.—An able enterprizing military Leader at the head of but a few troops between two contending hostile factions, who woud prefer any thing to the success of their adversaries will not require the talents of a Bonaparte, to play the same game that has been repeated over & over from the beginning of the world.—As to the changes which you consider as contemplated by one of our parties or a British form of Government which justly has it admirers among the best of all parties, I cannot but consider them as idle dreams; they can never be carried by suffrage, & they never will be carried by the bayonet—the man who has power to place himself at the head of an Empire, will never in reality limit his own authority—for Helvetius has very truly said that every man woud rather be1 Grand Seignier than King of England.—Such was my language respecting the new Constitution 16 years ago my disapprobation was founded on what I thought fundamental errors & altho I had many minor objections, they were but as boils & blotches on the Body of a criminal already sentencd to die.—From the progress however which I had observ’d in public opinion I had no doubt that any change that coud be made would be from bad to worse, And when the Constitution was establishd as I coud see no other resting place I determind to abide by it, beleiving that it might last longer than I shoud & tired of revolutions I trusted that a good administration might palliate its defects, if it coud not rectify its vices, the most destructive of which has been, that it has carried discord & unhappiness into the bosom of almost every private family, united as brethren before: In fact the attempt to unite the States, has disunited all the People.—From a mild temper, philosophic turn of mind & benevolent heart, I do expect (& I so expressd myself) that you would do much to heal the wounds already inflicted by party spirit, & which I really thought had been designedly exacerbated to pave the way for a revolution; if the event has not answerd 566
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my expectation, I am willing to attribute it in some measure to the conduct of the Fœderal Presses,—but the great cause must be sought elsewhere, & I beleive in an irremediable vice of the Constitution.— Still I woud be one of the last men in America who woud attempt to change or mend it.—the only change I now look to with any hopes is the strengthening the State Governments, by rendring their offices more eligible in order to divert the current which now sweeps everything into the vortex of the General Government.—In fact I have seen too much of Constitution making & mending, & was I a Citizen of any moderate Government of Europe with the experience I have had, I shoud be opposd to a change—Any Constitution, I beleive, may be renderd tolerable, if executed with wisdom & virtue & I am certain, unless these preside in our Councils, paper Constitutions are no better than Continental paper money.—You have now a full exposition of the whole of my late Conduct & the Sum of all my Politics; I leave them to speak for themselves, but I look forward with some anxiety to a period which fast approaches, after which, I shall be no more seen nor heard as a Politician.—I did fondly hope that however retired I might be from the political World I shoud still hold a respectable place in the remembrance of some of those I was to leave behind—their friendship & their Society often constituted the foreground in some of those pleasing visions, which I cannot yet abandon altho’ they have so often deluded me, That you have ever been prominent in this small but respectable group I am still free to say & as I am conscious of nothing that ought to have forfeited any place I ever held in your esteem You will still permit me subscribe myself with the highest respect & sincerest wishes for your personal welfare Your affectionate friend & servant John F: Mercer Annapolis Oct. 27. PS. This Letter was began at West River as dated but a severe autumnal fever intervening prevented my finishing it till to day, & has protracted it to an immoderate length, RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 30 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Mercer’s accusation during the previous year that Edward Hall had suborned perjury played out in an exchange of handbills, most of which were reprinted in newspapers (Baltimore Republican; or, Anti-Democrat, 5, 31 Aug., 7 Sep. 1803; Washington Federalist, 8, 29 Aug. 1803; enclosure to “A Friend to Merit” to TJ, 6 Oct.).
difference with the council: an 1802 resolution of the Maryland General Assembly authorized Mercer, in consultation with the executive council, to name three commissioners to meet with representatives from Pennsylvania and the Susquehanna Canal Company and negotiate a plan for improving navigation of the Susquehanna River. Mercer had supported the project while many DemocraticRepublican members of the legislature opposed it. After failing to reach agreement
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19 OCTOBER 1804 with Mercer on the commissioners, the council nominated the state chancellor, Alexander Contee Hanson, state senator James Houston, and John montgomery, a member of the House of Delegates. Mercer in turn nominated Hanson, Gabriel Duvall, and John Thomson Mason, and requested that the assembly determine who properly had authority over the nominations. In the 1804 elections, Montgomery placed third among the four elected from Harford County (Publications Relative to the Difference of Opinion between the Governor and the Council on Their Respective Powers [Annapolis, 1803], 1-4; Baltimore Republican; or, Anti-Democrat, 28 Jan. 1803; Baltimore Telegraphe and Daily Advertiser, 5 Oct.; Vol. 42:235). repeal of the county court law: Mercer had reluctantly signed an 1801 act that superseded several acts concerning
Maryland’s court system and that critics considered an unconstitutional effort to deprive sitting judges of their commissions. When he resolved to run for the state legislature in opposition to DemocraticRepublican candidates, Mercer apparently informed madison that he hoped, in Madison’s words, “to set the State to rights . . . by a skilful management of parties” (Laws of Maryland, Made and Passed at a Session of Assembly, Begun and Held at the City of Annapolis on Monday the Second of November, in the Year of Our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and One [Annapolis, 1802], ch. 74; Federal Gazette & Baltimore Daily Advertiser, 3 Dec. 1801; Baltimore Republican; or, Anti-Democrat, 26 Jan. 1802; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 5:249-50; Vol. 42:248, 251n). 1
MS: “woud be rather be.”
From John Rowan Sir Frankfort Octr 19th 1804 Having been informed that Mr. John Clay is a Candidate for the office of Collector at the port of Orleans and having been for a long time intimately acquainted with Mr. Clay I feel no hesitation in certifying that Mr. Clay is in My opinion well qualified for the office of Collector He is a prompt & accurate accomptant—a man of good information and General acquaintance with Men and things—of Gentlemanly Deportment and Strict integrity—I do not know that the office coud be better filled— I have the Honor to be Sir yr. Obt. Hble Srvt John Rowan RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 3 Dec. and so recorded in SJL with a brace connecting it to letters received on the same date from John Breckinridge of 22 Oct., Thomas Hart and others of 20 Oct., and Christopher Greenup of 18 Oct., and the notation “John Clay to be Collector or Surveyor N.O.”
John Rowan (1773-1843) was a lawyer and politician, born in Pennsylvania but raised in Bardstown, Kentucky. He served as a member of the state constitutional convention of 1799 and was Kentucky’s secretary of state from 1804 through 1806. In 1807, he won a seat in the House of Representatives. Although often identified with the Republicans, Rowan did not always follow party line. He voted
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20 OCTOBER 1804 against the Embargo Act and in early 1808 called on the House to investigate James Wilkinson for corruption. After his congressional term ended, Rowan continued intermittently to represent his district in the Kentucky legislature, for a short
time was an appellate judge, and returned to Congress for one term as a senator in 1825 (Biog. Dir. Cong.; anb; jhr, 6:127; Charleston Carolina Messenger, 8 Mch. 1808).
From Thomas Hart and Others Lexington 20h. October 1804.
Understanding that the Offices of Collector & Surveyor of the Port of New Orleans are vacant, and that Mr John Clay of that City is desirous of filling one of them, we beg leave to recommend him as a person properly qualified to discharge the duties attached to them. Previous to the year 1800 Mr Clay resided in this place, where he was engaged in the Mercantile business. In that year he removed to New Orleans and has lived chiefly there since. From Mr Clay’s capacity, integrity and acquaintance with the people of the place (whose general esteem we have learnt he possesses) we presume his pretensions in this application are well founded. Should he meet with success it will afford us much pleasure. Thomas Hart John Jordan jr George Trotter Alexr. Parker John Bradford Thos. Bodley W. Macbean Will. Morton John W. Hunt J. Postlethwait B. Thruston Saml Trotter RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); in a clerk’s hand, signed by all; endorsed by TJ (torn) as received 3 Dec. and “Clay John to be [Collector] or Surveyor of N.O.” and so recorded in SJL with a brace connecting it to letters received on the same date from John Breckinridge of 22 Oct., Christopher Greenup of 18 Oct., and John Rowan of 19 Oct. Thomas Hart (1730-1808) was a Revolutionary War officer and North Carolina
businessman who moved his family to Maryland during the war. He was an investor in Richard Henderson’s Transylvania Company and moved to Kentucky by 1794. He owned Olympian Springs, a health retreat and hotel east of Lexington. His daughter, Lucretia, married Henry Clay (Durward T. Stokes, “Thomas Hart in North Carolina,” North Carolina Historical Review, 41 [1964], 324-37; John E. Kleber, ed., The Kentucky Encyclopedia [Lexington, Ky., 1992], 203, 695-6, 894).
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From Jones & Howell Respected Friend Philadela. 20th October 1804 Agreeable to Your orders we have Sent to the Care of Gibson & Jefferson Eighty Bundles Rod Iron at 2.0.0.0. at $124— $248.00 porterage— 1.33 $249.33 And Remain very respectfully Your Friends Jones & Howell RC (MHi); at head of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 23 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. your orders: see TJ to Jones & Howell, 5 Oct. TJ did not remit payment
for the nailrod, drawing on the Bank of the United States in the amount of $249.33, until February (mb, 2:1146; TJ to Jones & Howell, 12 Feb. 1805).
Memorandum for Henry Dearborn on Indian Policy Notes on the papers communicated by Genl. Dearborne Choctaws. ⎬⎫ with these two nations I think our object should be to get all Chickasaws ⎭ the country on the waters of the Missipi, leaving them those of the Mobille. with the Choctaws it would seem this could be nearly accomplished at present, as they consent to the boundary of the Big black. perhaps they could by a sufficient annuity be induced to let the line run from the head of that river to the ridge dividing the waters of the Tombigbee from those of the Yazoo, and keep that to the Chickasaw boundary. this would be about ten millions of acres.*1 however we should lose no time, but strike while they are in their present humour & get what we can. with respect to the 3. establishments for white men we should abandon it. they would count it a great favor, when it is really of little consequence to us. perhaps it is quite as well to let them keep all the taverns. The Chickasaws are the most difficult as to lands. they have never sold any. with them we shall do nothing by public treaty. individually they are miserably poor. personal advantages privately stipulated to influential men seem the only means left us. if we could at first get a margin of 50. miles on the Missisipi, it would do as a beginning. having no confidence in our agent, could we not have a commercial fac* to pay their debts & give them an annuity of 6000. D. would be 1½ cent per acre.
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tor, who by credits in his store might work on their chiefs? this seems the most safe & effectual means of gaining their influence Dinsmore proposes to forbid the hunting of the Choctaws & Chickesaws over the Missisipi. it will be well to begin to make them understand our right to do it; but I think it is too soon to do it actually. let us get our margin on the river first, & we shall have a stronger right then to keep them from the Missisipi. I think we may look to the country between the St. Francis and Arkansa, to which there is no Indian title, as that which we should destine for the ultimate residence of the Choctaws & Chickasaws, and that South of the Arcansa for the Cherokees and Creeks. ⎫ we ought to remove the encroachment they complain of, Sacs ⎬ Renards ⎭ if it be true. it is said they have 2100. warriors West of the Misipi, & only 250. on the East side. would it not be well to treat with the 250. for a removal to their brethren, giving them, or such individuals as will remove, a certain annual allowance for their personal interest in the soil of the country they leave on this side. Osages. I suppose it is too early for us to undertake to keep peace between the nations of Indians West of the Misipi: but we may give notice to the nations on this side that that country is now ours, and the Indians in it under our protection; and that henceforward we will permit no Indians on this side to cross the river to make war on the other, nor any on the other to come over to make war on those on this side. the Osages will feel this as a very friendly act to them. I think it would be well to avail ourselves of our ransom of the brother of the Chief of the Little Osages, to make a merit of it in letters from the Secretary at War to both the Great & Little chief: informing them at the same time that we will take measures to prevent the Eastern Indians from making war on them. after these measures shall have had time with what has already past, to make their impression, perhaps we may venture through Choteau to propose the cession of land he talked of, candidly however telling them our view is to2 remove some of the Eastern Indians to it, for whose peaceable demeanor we would always continue responsible. As to what lands may be vacant between the Missouri and Missipi, and the removal of Indians thither we can decide on nothing till we shall have seen the Sious & Sacs. Th: Jefferson Oct. 20. 04 RC (PHi); endorsed by Dearborn with notation “relating to Choctaw & other Indian concernes.” PoC (DLC). Notation in SJL: “Indn. affairs.”
papers communicated by Dearborn may have included an offer by Choctaw leaders to cede land to the United States and letters of 6 Aug. and 3 Sep. from
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20 OCTOBER 1804 Samuel Mitchell, U.S. agent to the Chickasaws. In the former letter, Mitchell indicated a desire to escort some Chickasaw chiefs to Washington (DNA: RG 107, RLRMS; Petition of Puckshunubbee and Homastubbee, 23 Aug.). In a letter of 22 June, Amos Stoddard reported to Dearborn a conference he held with some sacs and Renards, or Foxes. The delegation protested non-Indian settlements on lands claimed by the tribes (Glimpses of the Past, 2 [1935], 114-15).
TJ and Dearborn may have discussed a ransom for Osage prisoners captured during an attack by Sac and Fox warriors the previous spring. Osage delegates stressed the event during their visit to Washington in July (TJ to Dearborn, 29 June; Notes on the Speeches of White Hair and Dog Soldier, 12 July; TJ to White Hair and Others, 16 July). 1 Preceding sentence and asterisk interlined. 2 TJ here canceled “settle.”
Notes on Choctaw Indian Lands [on or before 20 Oct. 1804]
0140 3½ 06400 000250 05600 69 000640 84000 31 0100 89600 207 150000 34½ 16/1,00 241 13[. . .] The Choctaws hold 140 miles on the Missipi every 11. miles E. & W. there, give 1. Milln. as.
from mouth of Yazoo to line of 31.° is 100. miles 15. mi. E. & W. on 100. mi. length give 1. milln. as. from 31.° to 34°–30 little prairie 240. miles 7. mi. E. & W. thro’ that length, give 1. milln. as. all the Choctaw lands on the waters of the Mispi. are abt 10. millions as. an annuity of 6000. D. would be a principal of 100,000. suppose their debts 50,000. makes 150,000 equal to 1½ cents per acre MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25462); torn; undated, but see previous document; entirely in TJ’s hand on a partial address sheet with remnant text “ington City” in unidentified hand.
572
From Charles Smith Sir, New-york October 20th. 1804 It is not to the President of these happy States I beg leave to address myself—it is to Mr. Jefferson, the Man of erudition, the Philosopher and the friend of mankind whom I respectfully beg to accept the enclosed translation of a work, which, in my opinion does credit to Dr. Burkhard. If you, highly respected Sir, should find it worthy a place in your library, I should think myself gratified in a high degree. I am with profound respect Sir Your most obedient humble St Charles Smith. RC (MoSHi: Jefferson Papers); endorsed by TJ as received 5 Dec. and so recorded in SJL with notation “with a book.” Enclosure: Johann Gottlieb Burkhard, Elementary or Fundamental Principles of the Philosophy of Natural History, trans. Charles Smith (New York, 1804); Sowerby, No. 1009. Charles Smith (1768-1808) was a New York City author, publisher, bookseller, and stationer with a store at 51 Maiden Lane. Among his publications were Universal Geography Made Easy; or, A New Geographical Pocket Companion (1795); Monthly Military Repository, a two-volume
octavo published from 1796 to 1797; The American War, from 1775 to 1783, with Plans (1797); and a short-lived weekly Youth’s News Paper in 1797. Smith was charged with insolvency in 1799. He later translated several German works, including Burkhard’s book on natural philosophy, which the Society of Associated Teachers of New York recommended for adoption in city schools (New York Argus, or Greenleaf’s New Daily Advertiser, 5 Jan. 1796; New-York Gazette, 5 June 1799, 12 July 1804, 13 Feb. 1808; Brigham, American Newspapers, 1:706-7).
From “A True Republican” Respectfull Sir, [before 21 Oct. 1804] I Write you not in the language of a petigogue but of plain honest Republicanisam—Many freinds of the same principle would have wrote, but from Various circumstance Th’y have been prevented—I Who hope not for [re]ward or fear punishment from the bitterest Enemies, of Republican government dare to denounce a person, Who with all the pride of Impudence dare to profess himself a Republican when it is well known on the Commencement of your government he profest himself a federalist—nay so much so that, he wrote against Repubcanism & did all he could to Retain Adams Party in. I take liberty to write you this because you Aught to know your freinds and the Enemies of our free and Republican government James Simons is the Man and, Whatever his freinds Choose to say in his favour it Certainly arises from interest in his line or as Relatives, for beleive me 573
21 OCTOBER 1804
he is the most arogant—assuming & sel[f] sufficient man Stoc[. . .] with Ignorance & presumption & Inimical to free and republican government of any man in this Stat—I see your appointment of D A Hall, altho’ deprived of honesty yet he may probably do as a Judge, but that you can Retain James Simons in office is astonishing to me & all those who know his principles. Would you appoint our late Embasador T Pinckny or his Cousin Danl. D’Oily in his office—you would do Justice to Republican principles as well as act Justly to deserving men and put out a man Who Employs only agents in the Custom House, & minds Speculating with the Money in poor unfortunate negroes Remember I warn you With republican ardour that a Fed ought to Remain a Fed and republicans ought to prop the government—I do not hope or Expect office but write from a True principle—, hoping Js. Simons may be made a private Citizen & if any of the names his Brother Robert be promoted in his I am With Right Respect a true Republican Enquire among your freinds for what I say—and also If he Jas. Simons bear any weght Except What his arrogance & office give him— for he is despised in the private Walks of Life for letting Mrs. McDonald a widow with five orphans support his aged sister and has not helped her to a shilling many years, for truth Enquire if you please of Solomon Legare Charles Lining, Micah Jenkins, or any of the pinckneys Rutledges, altho most of them are Feds they will speak truth—or of Dl Doly &C RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25031-2); torn; undated; at head of text: “To Thomas Jerfferson Esqe. President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as an
anonymous letter received from Charleston on 21 Oct. 1804 and “Simmonds. Pinckney. Doyley” and so recorded in SJL.
From Phebe Baldwin Sir— Paterson October the 21t 1804 I will Speak to you as the Father of this Country—and the Man of feeling—being oppressd with many distresses, I am totally Ignorant of the Pleasing dignified Method of address— I cannot think it improper for me, as the Wife of Capt. Baldwin— to plead with you in his behalf—Surely his Sufferings are many, too many not to be rememberd—his being war-worn is no honourable distinction Now—but as long as there is a door of Mercy, there is hope— 574
21 OCTOBER 1804
Not many weeks ago I wrote to you Sir, respecting his half-pay— for alas it is all his dependance at present—I hoped it might be Possible for to receive it, as in time of war, Monthly—or at lest quarterly either of those Statements would be of great benefit to him—Some years ago, I made the Same request to General Washington, he heard, and granted my Pepetion—but much greater the favour would be at this time—as I am Surrounded by a Family of Children looking Up for Support—if you Great Sir, are a Parent, reflect1 on the wretched Situation of an old Soldier Unable to procure his bread by labour and threatened by Extream Poverty to die in Obscurity— Let me again repeat my anxious wishes for him to be Considered— Surely you will receive a double blessing for releiving Misery—and though the distance is great, yet your Name Shall lose no merit by the Action— With every Mark of Respect Phebe Baldwin RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); addressed: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States at the City of Washington”; franked; postmarked Newark, N.J., 23 Oct.; endorsed by TJ as received 25 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Phebe Baldwin (d. 1816) was the wife of Daniel Baldwin, and in 1790 had peti-
tioned George Washington to authorize the quarterly payments of pension benefits to wounded veterans (New York Columbian, 21 Feb. 1816; Washington, Papers, Pres. Ser., 6:373; Daniel Baldwin to TJ, 8 Oct.). 1
MS: “refect.”
From Edmund Custis Sir/ Baltimore 21st October 1804 It is With diffidence that I again resume the liberty of Soliciting a favor that Will Necessaryly be confered on some One. It is the Collector Ship of the Port of N. Orleans, Which shd. I be fortunate enough to Obtain, Will Never be disgraced through my Conduct, & shd. my application meet your friendly approbation, Will immediately Wait on you With such Credentials as I have no doubt Will be Satisfactory, I sincerly Regret the death of Mr. Triest, Well Knowing the distress that his Mother & Family must experience & With Whom I had the pleasure of some acquaintance When here, On their way to Orleans & shd. it be their Wish to return, Shall be Welcome to a passage, gratis in a Vessell that I am about to send to that Port— I am With due Respect, Sir Your Mo. Obt. Servt— Edmund Custis RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 22 Oct. and “to be Collector N.O. vice Trist” and so recorded in SJL.
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From George Fowler, with Jefferson’s Note Sir City Washington Oct. 21st. 1804 I about six weeks ago took the liberty to write you a letter and sent it by post. Having never recd. an answer I presume you have long since formed your intention and I would thank you to be so obliging as to return my letter by the bearer, Your obt. Geo. Fowler [Note by TJ:] the letter was returned to him. RC (DLC); addressed: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 21 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
TJ received Fowler’s letter of 6 Sep. on 14 Sep. (see Appendix iv).
From James Oldham Dear Sir— Sharlotsville October 21st. 1804. For these Ten days past, have been confind at this place with a violent pain in my Head. mr. Jhn. Payton was so good as to forward to me your favor of the 11th., which This moment have receiv,d, The worke which you have pleas,d to mention that coul,d immediatly put into my hands, permit me, Sir, to return you my most graitful thanks, this will give me a grait opertunity of Looking out for Business in the corse of the winter. I Shall not be able to leave heare until after Novembr. Court. Shall then immediatly go down to Richmond and precoure Lumber for to begin your worke, and I Suppose you will furnish me with money to pay for the Lumber as my Surcumstances will not admit of a beginning. on my own footing; When I have purchas,d the Lumber will furnish you with the amount of Cost, which will be time Sufficient for any Remittance of money to be maid me. The manner which you woul’d wish the Sashes to be maid for the greenhouse, you will please to inform me some time hence; the length of the arches, that is, from the Sill to the Spring of the arch is 8.1⅜ I.—width 5.5½ I. When makeing your calculation you will please to make an alowance for the fraim. which the Sash is to act in. With Respect I have The Honour To be Sir Your Obt Servt. James Oldham 576
22 OCTOBER 1804
P.S. Shall go down to milton tomorrough and remain there until I Setought for Richmond. RC (MHi); at foot of text: “Thoms, Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 24 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
From Edward Tiffin and Others [before 22 Oct. 1804]
The Subscribers beg leave to represent to your excellency that the Situation of the Indians on the western waters might be considerably ameliorated by the propagation of christianity among their various nations. The measures hitherto pursued for the accomplishment of this desirable object have in our opinion failed of success from the manner in which missionaries have received their appointments. The Indians, as you will percieve from the perusal of the certificates annexed, regard those missionaries with jealousy and they attribute to them motives very different from the real objects of their Mission; and it is common for their cheifs to observe that if the introduction of Religion among them would prove so highly beneficial, Surely the Great Council of the American Nation would not neglect such an opportunity of serving them. Impressed with the vast importance of the subject we beg leave to submit it to your excellency’s consideration, and should you be inclined to adopt from these feeble observations any plan by which the blessings of Christianity might be propagated among the heathen we would recommend as a person well qualified for this purpose the Revd. William Wood who has successfully preached the Gospel in this and the neighbouring State for a number of years, and who has had considerable opportunities of being acquainted with the manners and customs of the Indians. Edward Tiffin RC (CSmH); undated, but see James McPherson and Isaac Zane to TJ, 22 Oct.; in a clerk’s hand, signed by Tiffin and 43 others; at head of text: “To Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States.” Enclosure: statements by McPherson and Zane on the ineffectiveness of missionaries among the western Indians; in 20 years spent living among Indians, McPherson has “always discoverd in them a Jealosy over transient Missionarys” and advises that any subsequent mission should foster connections with
Native American leaders; in his statement, Zane confirms McPherson’s assessment (MS in same; in a clerk’s hand, signed by McPherson, and by Zane with his mark). Many of the subscribers were prominent early citizens of Cincinnati, including David Zeigler, Charles Killgore, William Ruffin, Griffin Yeatman, John S. Gano, Daniel Drake, William Stanley, Joseph Prince, and Charlotte Chambers Ludlow, widow of the former register
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22 OCTOBER 1804 of the Cincinnati land office (Cincinnati Western Spy, and Hamilton Gazette, 20 Feb. 1802, 4 Sep. and 6 Nov. 1805; Cin-
cinnati Liberty Hall, 28 Mch. 1810; Vol. 42:443).
Bill for Preservation of Peace in Harbors and Waters I. BILL FOR THE PRESERVATION OF PEACE IN HARBORS AND WATERS OF THE UNITED STATES, [ON OR BEFORE 22 OCT. 1804] II. FROM HENRY DEARBORN, [22 OCT. 1804] III. FROM ROBERT SMITH, [25 OCT. 1804]
E D I T O R I A L
N O T E
In the late spring and early summer of 1804, two incidents demonstrated the relative weakness of civil authorities to compel foreign vessels to comply with state and federal law in U.S. territory. The first, in May, involved a French privateer refusing a court order to release a prize that it had illegally seized in American waters. The second, in June, occurred when the British frigate Cambrian prevented state and federal agents from carrying out their duties in New York City’s harbor. Following a summer of heightened international tensions surrounding these events, Jefferson informed Congress in his annual message that the current European war had begun to spill into American waters. This state of affairs called for “serious attention” to the “infringements on the authority of the Laws” (TJ to Smith, 15 June; TJ to Dearborn, 23 June; Annual Message to Congress, 8 Nov.). To address this problem, in late October and early November, Jefferson consulted with members of his cabinet on a draft bill “for the more effectual preservation of the peace in the harbors and waters of the US. & on board vessels.” Responses from Henry Dearborn and Robert Smith are printed below (Documents ii-iii). The draft bill in Jefferson’s papers also contains his notes on Levi Lincoln’s recommendations, which were most likely added after Dearborn and Smith had seen the text (Document i). Dearborn’s comment on the interlined word “armed” indicates that the majority of Jefferson’s interlineations and other corrections on the draft bill occurred before it was distributed to the cabinet. On 12 Nov., the House of Representatives referred the sections of the annual message “as relates to the defence and security of our ports and harbors, and supporting within our waters the authority of our laws” to a select committee headed by Joseph H. Nicholson. At some point prior to 19 Nov., William A. Burwell made a fair copy of the draft bill and delivered it to Nicholson, who later added an endorsement stating that he had “foolishly reported” the bill in the form in which he received it from Jefferson “and had to recommit it twice” (see note to Document i). On that day, Jefferson wrote to John Randolph to explain why “it was thought necessary” to bypass him and communicate the measure directly to Nicholson. On 19 and 20 Nov.,
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22 OCTOBER 1804 Jefferson and Nicholson discussed the reasons why the president wanted to keep legislation regarding gunboats “as far apart” as possible from the bill on enforcing laws in harbors and coastal waters. Following this discussion, on 22 Nov., the House committee reported a bill that was substantially the same as the one drafted by Jefferson, but with two additional sections empowering the president to enforce the law (jhr, 5:11, 21; js, 3:447, 448, 460, 467, 470; Annals, 14:683-4, 695, 700-5, 764-76, 1008, 1178-80, 1222, 1224; Gerald W. Gawalt, “ ‘Strict Truth’: The Narrative of William Armistead Burwell,” vmhb, 101 [1993], 103-32; TJ to Randolph, 19 Nov.; Nicholson to TJ, 19 Nov.; TJ to Nicholson, 20 Nov.). As passed by the House and Senate and signed into law by Jefferson on 3 Mch. 1805, the “Act for the more effectual preservation of peace in the ports and harbors of the United States, and in the waters under their jurisdiction” retained the substance of the four sections of Jefferson’s draft and included additional provisions. The first section of the act enabled a federal judge to call on militia, regular troops, or U.S. armed vessels to assist a marshal serving a warrant aboard a foreign armed vessel in U.S. waters. The second section enabled the governor of a state also to requisition federal military or naval assistance in enforcement of legal process. According to the third section, a commanding officer of militia, of army troops, or of a U.S. armed vessel who refused a lawful call for assistance under the act was subject to a fine of up to $5,000. The second and third sections of Jefferson’s draft, to empower the president to block foreign armed vessels or force their departure, became the fourth and fifth sections of the act as passed. The act’s sixth section, based on the final paragraph of Jefferson’s draft, authorized the president to take action against an officer of a foreign armed vessel who committed “any trespass or tort, or any spoliation on board any vessel of the United States” on the high seas or made “any unlawful interruption or vexation of trading vessels” bound to or from the United States. Final sections of the law called for instructions to be sent to collectors of customs and protected individuals from lawsuits for actions performed under the provisions of the act. The act was to be in effect for two years, and then to the end of the next session of Congress (U.S. Statutes at Large, 2:339-42).
I. Bill for the Preservation of Peace in Harbors and Waters of the United States [on or before 22 Oct. 1804]
An Act for the more effectual1 preservation of the peace in the harbors and waters of the US. & on board vessels. Foreign armed vessels within the harbours. committing breaches of law. A.G. l. 4. after ‘felony’ insert ‘infraction of
Be it enacted &c. that whensoever any treason, felony, misprision2 misdemeanor breach of the peace or of the revenue laws3 shall have been committed within the jurisdiction of 579
B I L L F O R P R E S E R VAT I O N O F P E A C E revenue-law or other the US. and in a case cognisable by statute.’ the authority thereof 4 and the perI had rather extend the son committing the same shall be on provision to cases cogniboard of any foreign armed vessel in sable by the authority of any harbour 5 of the US or in the individual states. but if this be objectionable, the cases waters within their jurisdiction, and cognisable by the authority the ordinary posse comitatus shall be of the US. should be dedeemed insufficient to enable the offifined. was the impressment cer of the US. charged with the proin N.Y. harbour a case cess of law to serve the same,6 it shall cognisable by the authority of the US.? and why, be lawful for him to apply to any supposing it was, should officer having command of militia, of outrages against the public regular troops, or of armed vessels of peace & affecting the the US in the vicinity to aid him in the persons or property of execution of the process with which citizens, but exclusively punishable by state he is so charged: which officer, conauthority, remain unproforming himself in all things to the vided against? see for instructions he shall recieve, or shall similar powers Act. 5. June have recieved from the President of 94. § 7. 8. pa. 91-93. vol. 3. the US. or other person duly autho& Act. 28. Feb. 95. §. 2. 9. pa. 189. 191. Vol. 3. rised by him, shall first demand a surthe objects of 94. June 5. render of the person charged in the are 1. takg or issuing said process, and if delivery be not commns in foreign service made, or if he be obstructed from 2. enlisting in do. within making the demand, he shall use all US. 3. arm ships to serve foreign power. 4. set on the means in his power by force and foot, within US. expedn arms to arrest & sieze the said peragt foreign power 5. son, and all those who are with him capture of a vessel within giving him aid or countenance; and waters of US. 6. resistance the same to convey and deliver under of process by armed vessel. in these cases the President safe custody to the civil authority 7 to may use force. the 6th. case be dealt with according to law. and if vaguely looks towards the death ensues on either side, it shall be objects of this 1st. section. Exclusion of foreign armed vessels from our harbors; and regulation of their conduct while in them.
justifiable or punishable as in cases of homicide in resisting a civil officer. And in order to prevent insults to the authority of the laws within the said harbors and waters, and thereby endangering our peace with foreign nations, be it further enacted that it shall be lawful for the President of the US. to interdict the entrance of
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after ‘they’ insert ‘are entitled to such privilege by virtue of any treaty, or when they’ A.G.
& ‘customs at the place’ and insert ‘district.’ A.G. Qu. are not armed vessels of some nations exempted from making report & entry by virtue of treaties? A.G.
Foreign armed vessels refusing to depart
the harbors & waters under the jurisdiction of the US. to all armed vessels belonging to any foreign nation and by force to repel & remove them from the same,8 except where they shall be forced in by distress, by the dangers of the sea, or by pursuit of an enemy, or where they shall be charged with dispatches or business from the government to which they belong to that of the US. in which cases, as also in all others where they shall be voluntarily permitted to enter, the officer commanding such vessel shall immediately report his vessel to the Collector of the district,9 stating the causes & object of his entering the harbour or waters, shall take such position in the harbour or waters as shall be assigned to him by such collector, & shall conform himself, his vessel and people to such regulations respecting health, repairs, supplies, stay, intercourse & departure as shall be signified to him by the said Collector, under the authority and instructions of the President of the US. and not conforming thereto shall be compelled to depart the US. And be it further enacted that whensoever any armed vessel of a foreign nation, entering the harbors or waters within the jurisdiction of the US. and required to depart therefrom, shall fail so to do, it shall be lawful for the President of the US.,10 in order to avoid unnecessary recurrence to force, to forbid all intercourse with such vessel and with every armed vessel of the same nation11 & the people thereto belonging; to prohibit all supplies & aids from being furnished 581
B I L L F O R P R E S E R VAT I O N O F P E A C E
Interdiction of foreign officer from the limits of the US.
‘vexation’ seems too loose an expression. A.G.
them, and also to instruct the Collector of the district where such armed vessel shall be, & of any or every other district of the US.12 to refuse permission to any vessel belonging to the same nation or it’s people, to make entry or unlade13 so long as the said armed vessel shall, in defiance of the public authority remain within the harbours or waters of the US. and all persons offending herein shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by fine & imprisonment14 and shall moreover be liable to be bound to the good behavior according to law. And be it further enacted that whensoever any officer of an armed vessel commissioned by 15 any foreign power shall, within the harbours or waters under the jurisdiction of the US. have offended against this act, or when any officer of a foreign armed vessel shall on the high seas or elsewhere have committed trespass on any citizen or vessel of the US. spoliation on their property, or vexation of trading vessels16 coming to or going from the US it shall be lawful for the President of the US. on due proof of the facts, by proclamation, to inderdict for ever the entrance of that officer within the limits or jurisdiction of the US. and if he enter thereafter, he shall be liable to be taken by Capias in the first instance, and to be punished by fine, imprisonment, and transportation to any parts beyond the seas, & so as often as he shall commit the same offense.
PoC of Dft (DLC: TJ Papers, 134:25069-70); at foot of first page:
“Oct. 1804”; probably composed by 22 Oct. (see Document ii); entirely in
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22 OCTOBER 1804 TJ’s hand, with space following each paragraph and a wide margin for headings and revisions; in margin, TJ added notations of comments by the attorney general and his responses. Tr (DLC: Joseph H. Nicholson Papers); in William A. Burwell’s hand; endorsed by Nicholson: “Mr. Jefferson’s Dft. of a Bill, which I foolishly reported in his form, and had to recommit it twice.” 1
Preceding two words interlined. Word interlined. 3 Preceding five words interlined. 4 Preceding nine words interlined. 5 TJ first wrote “any vessel in the the harbours,” then altered the text to read as above. 6 TJ first wrote “to enable the sheriff, marshal or other peace officer to serve the process of law with which he may be charged,” then altered the text to read as above. 2
7 TJ here canceled “of the place.” 8 Preceding 11 words interlined. 9 Word interlined in place of “customs at the place.” 10 Abbreviation and preceding five words interlined. 11 Preceding nine words interlined. 12 Text from “also to instruct” to this point interlined. 13 Preceding four words interlined in place of “enter at the custom house of the place or at any custom house of the US.” 14 Preceding five words interlined. 15 Preceding two words interlined in place of “of.” 16 TJ first wrote “shall on the high seas or elsewhere have maltreated any citizen or vessel of the US. committed spoliation on their property, or unjust vexation of trading vessels” then altered the text to read as above.
II. From Henry Dearborn Sir [22 Oct. 1804] Not having been very conversant with the detailed forms of Bills, it will be with diffidence that I shall sugjest any alterations in the draught of the proposed Bill you have been pleased to submit to my perusal,—as people on board of unarmed vessels may be guilty of offences and may resist the execution of the laws, I will take the liberty of sugjesting the propriety of leaving out the word, Armed, in the fourth line of the 1t. section.—I can concieve of no well founded objection to the proposed Law, the last section may be objected to by some persons as bearing a distant resemblence to the late Alien law, unless provision is made for a trial by Jury in cases of offences committed on the high Seas. I think however there is a mark’d destinction between the characters of the persons on whoom the respective laws was or is to opperate. Yours, H. Dearborn RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25033); undated; at foot of text: “To the President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the War Department on 22 Oct. 1804 and “Act more effectually to preserve peace in the harbours & waters of US.”
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III. From Robert Smith [25 Oct. 1804]
1st. Section The Offences enumerated in the first Section of the proposed Law are Treason, felony, misdemeanor, breach of the peace and breach of the Revenue Laws. Treason cannot be committed but by a person owing allegiance to the U. States and therefore the Commanding Officer of a foreign armed vessel cannot be guilty of it.1 A felony cognizable in the Courts of the U. States cannot be committed but upon the high Seas or in a fort or other place under the sole and exclusive jurisdiction of the U. States. And therefore it cannot be committed on board of a foreign Ship within any of our Harbours.2 Misdemeanors and breaches of the peace committed within any of our harbours are cognizable only in the State Courts.3 Breaches of the Revenue Laws are offences which Congress are competent to restrain & punish.
Does not the proposed first Section commit too much power to the discretion of the Officer charged with the process of law? Ought not the President of the U. States in each and every case maturely and deliberately to consider and determine whether it would be expedient to resort to such strong coercive measures? No armed publick Ship would allow her Commanding Officer to be seized and taken by force from on board his Ship. Resistance would be made. And the foreign Ship would not submit but to superior force and that she would not do but by striking her Colours in the accustomed form of a vanquished Vessel. In case of the death of any of our people the Officers and all the men of the foreign Ship would by the provision of this first Section be guilty of murder and be punishable accordingly. 2nd. Section— We should be relieved from great embarressments if the President of the U.S. possessed in substance the powers contemplated in the Second Section. We should however keep it in view that if the ports of the Mediterranean were shut against our publick armed vessels, we would be utterly unable to prosecute our Warfare against Tripoli or any other Barbary power. 3d. Section It would be impossible to restrain our own people from all intercourse with such foreign Ships or from furnishing them with such supplies and aids as they might want. 584
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The refusing of the right of entry would be no doubt a serious injury to the foreign merchants; but at the same time it might be as great an injury to our own Citizens inasmuch as they may and probably would be the owners of the Cargo on board. Besides, would not the resorting to such expedients be somewhat humiliating as it would be permitting a foreigner to remain in our own Country and in the view of our own people openly and insultingly putting at defiance the authority of our Laws and the orders of our government. Would it not be more grateful to the American people and more honorable to their government to enforce the order to depart by means of our fortifications and our marine force. The employment of such means is not an uncommon thing and could easily be justified 4th. Section— The Offences stated in this Section under the general terms— Trespass—Spoliation—Vexation—ought to be described with more precision. RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25066-8); undated; in Smith’s hand; notations by TJ (see notes below); endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 25 Oct. 1804 and “Bill perservg. peace in harbors” and so recorded in SJL. 1 TJ here wrote in pencil: “a criminal may take refuge on shipboard, and even a foreign officer owes allegiance while here”
and then inserted in ink: “piracy, murder, or other felony committed on the high sea is ‘committed within the jurtn of the US.’ and the offender may be on board a vessel in a harbor of the US. see Laws of Congr. 1. 101 &c.” 2 TJ here wrote in pencil: “but a felon may take refuge.” 3 TJ here wrote in pencil: “the 3d. section creates misdemeanors.”
From John Bird Sir, NewCastle; Del: 22nd. October 1804 Since our Election, a report is in circulation in this State, and in Pennsylvania, that Allen McLane, is to be removed from Office—and, that I am to be appointed his successor. What authority there is for this report, I cannot discover—altho it is in the mouths of all parties! Will you, therefore, permit me to hope, that you will be pleased to inform me if this proceeding will take place,—and at what period?— so that my arrangements may be made accordingly. Pray excuse this liberty; and believe that I am with the highest consideration, your Obt. Hbe. Servant John Bird RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqe. Prest: of the U.S.”; endorsed by TJ as received 23 Oct. and “to be Collector v. Mc.lane” and so recorded in SJL.
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From John Breckinridge Dear Sir Lexington (Kentucky) 22. Octr. 1804. I have been lately informed, that Robt. Nicholas does not accept the Office of Surveyor of the port of Orleans. Applications for that office will be made to you from this quarter, in behalf of John Clay, a gentn. formerly resident here, but who many years ago removed to, and settled in, the city of Orleans. He was bred to the mercantile business; is of very respectable connections here; is a man of activity, well qualified for Business; and a good Republican; & would, I think, discharge the duties of that office with reputation to himself & advantage to the govert.—I would have Deferred this application on behalf of Mr. Clay, untill I had the pleasure of seeing you (which I hope will be in about 4 weeks); but understanding that other applications were on foot here, I have availed myself of the oppo. furnished by the present mail. Accept assurances of the sincere regard & respect of Dear Sir Your friend & Sert. John Breckinridge RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Mr. Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ as received 3 Dec. and so recorded in SJL with a brace connecting it to letters received on the same date from Thomas Hart and others of 20 Oct., Christopher Greenup of 18 Oct., and John Rowan of 19 Oct., and the notation “John Clay to be Collector or Surveyor N.O.” Robert Carter nicholas wrote to Gabriel Duvall on 10 Oct. from Lexington that unfortunately he had not received the comptroller’s letter of appointment until after leaving the Mississippi Territory and that distance and circumstances now
prevented his accepting the post (RC in DNA: RG 59, RD; endorsed by TJ: “declines office of Surveyor & Inspector at N.O.”). News that Nicholas had declined the appointment prompted George Russell to write Samuel Smith from Lexington, 28 Oct., asking that his former employer recommend him for the office. In Smith’s cover letter, written from Washington on 15 Dec. and unaddressed, the senator wrote that Russell had been one of the best young men at his counting house and was from a family of first respectability (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “to be Surveyor N.O. lre to Genl. S. Smith”).
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, New-Orleans October 22d. 1804. Since my last Letter, I have filled the Blank in the Marshalls commission, with the Name of Francis Joseph Le’Breton Dorgonoy, and administered to him the Oaths of Office.—This Gentleman is a Native of Louisiana; an independent Farmer, and possessing (as is stated to me) inflexible Integrity. Mr. Dorgonoy is also an American in sentiment and feeling; he has of late given umbrage to some Inhab 586
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itants here, by giving his opinions very freely relative to the Spanish Government—But I understand, he is generally respected as a man of sense and Integrity—Mr. Dorgonoy speaks the English Language. Neither of the Judges have arrived, nor do I know when I may expect them. Colo: Kirbey was a few weeks ago at Fort Stoddart; and said to be very unwell;—I have written to him; but no answer is yet returned. The presence of the Judges, would be of great public Utility; But their absence at this time is to themselves of great Importance; their approach to the city, might be attended with sudden Death. The Fever has greatly abated; But I learn from the Physicians, that Strangers who venture into the City, very generally take the Fever, & rarely escape:—It is expected however, that in a very few Days we shall have Cold Nights accompanied with frost, and then the health of the City, & the purity of its Air, will be restored;— Captain Gregg a valuable officer died a few Days ago at the encampment near this City; Some imprudent Person in announcing his Death in the Papers closed the Account by stating “and some of the barbarous Inhabitants rejoice in their fate”; meaning the death of an American Soldier. This Calumny against the Louisianians excited a great share of their Resentment.—The Printer however, has made a full apology for his Imprudence; and the unfortunate Death of Lieutent Powell of the Army, who died on this morning in the City, has furnished some of the Louisianians an opportunity to prove, how ungenerous was the publication alluded to: I have ordered the Militia Officers to attend Lieutenant Powell’s funeral, and some of the Militia Lieutenants will be the pall Bearers. I pray Almighty God to preserve you in health and happiness.— I am Dear Sir, With great respect Your faithful friend! William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 21 Nov. and so recorded in SJL.
my last letter: Claiborne to TJ, 5 Oct.
From Henry Dearborn Sir War Department Octr. 22d. 1804 I have the honor to propose George Bumford for approbation as a Cadet in the Corps of Engineers. Accept Sir the assurances of my high respect & Consideration 587
22 OCTOBER 1804 FC (Lb in DNA: RG 107, LSP). At age 24, George Bomford was among the oldest cadets at West Point when he received his commission in the corps of engineers (Nancy Simons Peterson,
“Guarded Pasts: The Lives and Offspring of Colonel George and Clara [Baldwin] Bomford,” National Genealogical Society Quarterly, 86 [1998], 284; Heitman, Dictionary, 1:228-9).
From James McPherson and Isaac Zane Worthy Sir Mad River October 22d 1804 As an Additional Information to Your Exelency act1 of the Revd. Mr. Woods Address: Assure you that a more Favorable time has never Appeared for the Civilization of the Indian Tribes than the present. in this Quarter of the World, from Some Cause they are Universally Alarmed, and fear that the Great Spirit is going to Destroy them from the face of the Earth for their wickedness. & have had a General meeting to offer a kind of Sacrifice in Order to Appease Gods Displeasure. & are apparently in great distress. But poor Creatures, they want Instruction, and Some one to Guide them, for their Superstitions are Strong, and great Ignorance is their Guide. Your Excellency may Rest Assured, the Motives from which we Write are pure & the Information we give True. As we have been a long time Acquainted with the poor Savages, And have our present Information from their own mouths, And we discover a great alteration in their Conduct. we hope therefore that Divine Wisdom may so order that Something may be done for their Benefit and the General good of our Country. Excuse our freedom & accept the best wishes of Your Excellencys Most Obedient Hume Servants James Mcpherson Isaac RC (CSmH); in McPherson’s hand. Recorded in SJL as received 29 Nov. James McPherson was a native of Pennsylvania and was captured while on a frontier expedition with militia in 1781. Eventually adopted by the Shawnees, he lived among them into the 1790s and later worked as a trader on the Great Miami River. As part of an 1817 treaty, McPherson was granted a parcel of land in the Shawnee reservation around Lewistown,
Zane
where he acted for a number of years as an intermediary between Indians and state and national officials (John Sugden, Blue Jacket: Warrior of the Shawnees [Lincoln, Neb., 2000], 310-11; Henry Howe, Historical Collections of Ohio [Cincinnati, 1847], 304-5; asp, Indian Affairs, 2:132; Lexington Kentucky Gazette, 21 June 1803; Cincinnati National Republican, 9 July 1831). Isaac Zane (c. 1744-1816), who was related to a friend of TJ’s with the same
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23 OCTOBER 1804 name, was captured as a youth from his home on the Virginia frontier and adopted by the Wyandots. He remained with the nation for the rest of his life but often aided white settlers and combatants. He served as an interpreter during negotiations for the treaty of Greenville in 1795. Five years later, Congress granted him a tract of land on Mad River, which previously had been reserved for him by the Wyandots (John Gerald Patterson, “Eb-
enezer Zane, Frontiersman,” West Virginia History, 12 [1950], 6-7; Howe, Historical Collections of Ohio, 304-5; asp, Public Lands, 1:83, 110-11; asp, Indian Affairs, 1:582; Lexington Kentucky Gazette, 21 June 1803; Vol. 40:619-20). the revd. mr. woods address: see Edward Tiffin and Others to TJ, [before 22 Oct. 1804]. 1 That
is, “account.”
From John Beckley Dear Sir, Washington City, 23d: October 1804. I shall be pardoned by your goodness, for again intruding on your time and patience, in the case of appointing a Successor to the late General Irvine, since, until a decision be had, your mind will be disposed to admit any proper reflection thereon. It being known that several respectable applications have been withheld in deference to that which has been advanced by the friends of the late General, in behalf of his son Captain Callender Irvine, and that the probable competition will remain only between General Porter and Captain Irvine, the ground of enquiry is consequently narrowed into the fitness and propriety of the pretensions of these two candidates. In respect to General Porter, it is admitted that his revolutionary Merits and seniority entitle him to high respect, and that Captain Irvine can bear no competition on either of those grounds; nor is to be denied, that in the event of the appointment of the latter, an invidious objection might be grounded on the tortured idea of an hereditary transmission of the Office from the acknowledged merits of the father, to the supposed and doubtful merits of the son, altho’ in two instances which have occurred under the present administration no such public objection ever was surmised. But Sir, in the confident assurance that Captain Irvine yeilds in no essential qualification to General Porter, as to all other particulars, and is infinitely his superior in mind, talents and education I know, from my personal knowledge of both, that I hazard no unfounded or unauthorized declaration. In the former is a maturity and energy of mind, grounded on a classical and scientific education, directed by a correctness of principle and integrity of conduct, accompanied by a diffidence and modesty of action, which adorns, dignifies and consummates a youthful Character, equalled by few, surpassed by none. In the latter a qualified and limited knowledge of 589
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Mathematics, a smattering of theoretic with some practical experience in Military tactics, an abundant self sufficiency, a hasty, violent and overbearing temper, a total want of public confidence, a fixed unpopularity of Character, and more than a suspicion of his leaning to fœderal and third party views in politics, deducible from his opposition to the reelection of Governor McKean, altho’ in the first instance friendly to his appointment. If however, Sir, I am mistaken or misinformed in any of these suggestions, and should consequently do injustice to the merits and pretensions of General Porter, there is a Criterion which might possibly decide their truth or fallacy without prejudice, and that is in the public sense of pennsylvania, thro’ the medium of its delegation in Congress, the meeting of which being near at hand, would probably incur no public inconvenience in a delay of the appointment until then. It remains only for me to add, that personally and as it respects yourself, if I know my own mind, there is no consideration of feeling for the interests of my deceased friend, or of his son, that should betray me into an improper urgency, derogatory to that fixed regard to your character and sincere wish for the honorable success of your administration which animates all my conduct, being, with undeviating attachment, dear Sir, Your obedt. & respectful friend, John Beckley RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 23 Oct. and “Irvine Callender v. Genl. Irvine agt. Porter” and so recorded in SJL. two instances: Beckley likely referred to Abraham Bishop succeeding his
father, Samuel Bishop, to the New Haven collectorship in 1803, and, more recently, Isaac Neufville taking over from his father, John Neufville, as the commissioner of loans for South Carolina (Vol. 37:1223; Isaac Neufville to TJ, 6 Aug.).
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Bill to Regulate the Clearance of Armed Vessels I. JAMES MADISON’S REMARKS ON A DRAFT, [23 OCT. 1804] II. DRAFT BILL, [ON OR AFTER 23 OCT. 1804] III. ROBERT SMITH’S REMARKS ON THE DRAFT, [27 OCT. 1804] IV. HENRY DEARBORN’S REMARKS ON THE DRAFT, 28 OCT. 1804
E D I T O R I A L
N O T E
In the spring of 1804, Jefferson began receiving reports that owners of U.S. merchant vessels trading in the West Indies were arming their ships. Owners and masters argued these actions were necessary to protect vessels from pirates and French privateers. French minister Louis André Pichon complained that such actions violated neutrality laws and were a thinly disguised attempt to enable trade with Haiti in defiance of French law. Customs collectors sought guidance as to whether they could require bonds or security that vessels would not commit hostile acts against nations in amity with the United States. The administration’s concern over the arming of merchant vessels subsequently found its way into Jefferson’s annual message, in which he expressed confidence that Congress would “adopt measures for restraining it effectually in future” (Vol. 43:440-2, 494, 544-6, 569-70, 606, 658-9; Gallatin to TJ, 2 July [first letter]). In late October, before Congress convened, the president circulated drafts of a bill regulating the clearance of armed vessels among members of his cabinet. Comments by James Madison, Robert Smith, and Henry Dearborn are printed below (Documents i, iii, iv). Jefferson’s papers also contain an undated draft of an act to address this issue (Document ii). It is unclear whether this surviving text, which consists of a single paragraph in William A. Burwell’s hand, is a full or partial draft of the proposed bill Jefferson shared with his cabinet. Madison’s reference to the “first enacting clause” suggests that he remarked on a different draft, one that contained multiple sections. The language of Madison’s remarks, however, probably formed the basis for Document ii, upon which Smith and Dearborn apparently commented. Smith’s remarks correspond to lines in the manuscript of Document ii (counting the title as the first line), and Dearborn’s line count also matches the manuscript (but omitting the title line from the count). On 12 Nov., the House of Representatives referred that part of Jefferson’s annual message that related to arming merchant vessels to a select committee, which reported a bill on the subject on 23 Nov. Similar in phrasing and content to Document ii, the committee’s bill required armed merchant vessels to provide security to an amount equal to twice the value of the vessel on condition that there be no “unlawful use” of arms “against the vessels, citizens, subjects, or territory of any nation in amity with the United States.” The regulation did not apply to vessels bound for the Mediterranean or beyond the Cape of Good Hope. An armed ship going to sea without the proper clearance was subject to forfeiture. Vessels deemed likely to violate the terms
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CLEARANCE OF ARMED VESSELS of the bill could be detained by collectors for review by the president, who could order the ships disarmed or grant clearance. The bill subsequently underwent considerable debate and revision in both the House and the Senate, with additional information provided by Jefferson, before being enacted into law on 3 Mch. 1805 as “An Act to regulate the clearance of armed merchant vessels.” Under its provisions, no armed merchant vessel would be cleared for the West Indies or the coast between Cayenne and Louisiana without providing a bond for twice the value of the vessel and its arms and equipment. All arms and ammunition carried by such vessels were to be returned to the United States or otherwise accounted for. Bonds were also required of armed merchant vessels bound for other ports, along with an oath stating that such vessels would not sail to the West Indies or other prohibited places. Vessels violating the act were subject to seizure and condemnation, with proceeds “forfeited to the use of the United States.” The act was to remain in force “until the end of the next session of Congress” (jhr, 5:11, 22; js, 3:426, 433, 442-3, 446, 457-8; Annals, 14:722-4, 811-36, 861-2; U.S. Statutes at Large, 2:342-3; TJ to William Branch Giles, 18 Jan. 1805; Madison to TJ, 31 Jan. 1805; TJ to the Senate, 31 Jan. 1805).
I. James Madison’s Remarks on a Draft [23 Oct. 1804]
The first enacting clause will be ineffectual because vessels will clear for one place, when really bound to another. A principle therefore will be conceded of which advantage may hereafter be taken, without any security that will be satisfactory to complaining nations. The only adequation provision would be to take bond for delivery of the Cargo elsewhere that1 at the forbidden ports. But this ought to be perhaps by Treaty, and the price of some equivalent stipulation. It may be added that our Collectors would often be at a loss to know how far at particular times & ports, the local regulations prohibit or permit the entry of our vessels, or particular articles in their Cargoes. These considerations seem to have weight, agst. extending the Act beyond the case of armed vessels. “That no vessel armed or with the means of being armed at sea, in which or the cargo Whereof, a Citizen or domiciliated Alien shall be interested or embarked,2 shall receive at any Custom House of the U.S. any clearance, or be suffered to leave the port where she is found so armed or prepared; but on security given to the U.S. in a sum3 equal to one third of the value of her Cargo, and double the value of the vessels, that no assault or Trespass, during the voyage & return shall be committed by such vessel or persons on board her, against any vessels, or territory of a nation in amity with U.S. nor agst. any 592
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of the Citizens or subjects of such nation, and that no resistance shall be made to any lawful search, nor any other unlawful use be made of the arms on board such vessel. MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25038); undated; endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department on 23 Oct. 1804 and “on Bill for clearance of armed vessels.”
1 Thus
in MS. two words interlined. 3 Madison here canceled “not less.” 2 Preceding
II. Draft Bill [on or after 23 Oct. 1804]
An act Regulating the clearance of Armed vessels— Be it enacted &ca that no vessel armed or provided with the means of being armed at Sea, in which, or the Cargo whereof, a Citizen or inhabitant of the US. shall be interested or embarked shall Receive at any Custom house of the US. any clearance, or be suffered to leave the port where she is found so armed or providd. but on Security given to the use of 1 the US. in a Sum double the value of the vessel & one third her Cargo, with condition that2 no assault or trespass during the voyage & return shall be committed, by any such vessel or persons on board her, against any Vessel or Territory of a nation in amity with the US. nor against any of the Citizens or Subjects of such nation & That no resistance shall be made to any lawful search, nor any other unlawful use be made of the arms on board such vessel. And notwithstanding such Security given, if the circumstances of the case shall be such as to excite violent presumption, that such unlawful use of the s’d arms is meditated, such vessel shall be restrain’d from leaving the sd port; but on leaving her arms, or under such3 further provisions for Securing peaceable demeanor as the President shall prescribe, And all persons concerned in such assault Trespass or other unlawful use of such arms, shall be guilty of murder, felony or misdemeanor as the case shall be, & shall be punish’d according as they are principals or accessories, as in other cases of Murder, Felony, or Misdemeanor by the Laws of the US, and before any Court of the US, having cognisance of the like offences, within the limits of whose jurisdiction they shall be found. and if any vessel shall depart in contravention of the Orders & provisions for restraining her any clearance which she may have obtain’d shall thereby be render’d Null and Void— Dft (DLC: TJ Papers, 235:42178); undated, but probably written after TJ’s
receipt of Madison’s remarks (Document i); in William A. Burwell’s hand.
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CLEARANCE OF ARMED VESSELS 1 Preceding
three words interlined. first wrote “the Cargo, that” before altering the text to read as above. 2 Burwell
3 Burwell first wrote “or such other” before altering the text to read as above.
III. Robert Smith’s Remarks on the Draft [27 Oct. 1804]
3d. line—thereof—whereof— 6h. line &c—until a Bond with sufficient sureties shall be given to the use of the U. States in a sum double &c &c with Condition that no assault &c—&c— 12h. & 13h. lines—As the Captains of these vessels may not distinctly know the distinction between a lawful & an unlawful search and between the lawful and unlawful use of the arms on board, would it not be proper that the condition of the Bond should state with precision the kind of searches which ought not to be resisted and in what cases it would be unlawful to use the arms. Besides in point of pleading such precision is necessary; for in a special Replication to a plea of genl performance it would be impossible (as the Bill now is) to assign breaches upon which issues in fact could be joined. RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25098); undated; entirely in Smith’s hand; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 27 Oct. 1804 and “Bill agt. armg vessels” and so recorded in SJL.
IV. Henry Dearborn’s Remarks on the Draft Sir Octobr. 28th. 1804— I have carefully concidered the enclosed Bill, and take the liberty of sugjesting for concideration two very unimportant alterations, and the addition of a section or two, to be placed at the head of the bill or reather to form the first or first & second sections; I am not confident as to the propriety of anexing to the Bill the principle contained in the section I have proposed, but I am well perswaded that a law to that effect will ultimately be found necessary. in the sixth line, I would propose, ‘eaqual to the full value of the vessel & cargo’—in the place of double the value of the vessel and one third of her cargo. in the 13th line I would propose adding, the words ‘or offered to be given’— 594
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The proposed additional section— No vessel shall be armed within the limits of the U.S. unless duly Commissioned by the President, or by his express permission, except such as shall actually be bound beyond the Cape of Good hope or to the Pacific or Mediterranian Seas, and the owners of all such vessels as may be permitted to arm, including such as shall be bound to ports beyond the Cape of Good-hope or to the Pacific or Mediterranian Seas, shall previous to receiving a clearence from the Collector of the port enter into bonds with good and sufficient surities in a sum eaqual to the full value of the vessel & cargo with conditions that no assault or trespass during her voige shall be committed by such vessel or persons on board her against any vessel, territory, citizan or subject of a Nation in Amity with the U.S.— And no Merchant vessel in time of peace, not bound beyond the Cape of Good-hope or to the Pacific or Mediterranian Seas shall be permitted to arm unless for the express purpose of defence against pirates or uncommissioned Sea rovers. I can concieve of no good reason why armed Merchant vessels bound to distant countries should not give security for their good behavier; they will feel less restraint when at a great distance than when near home. with respectfull concideration, I am Sir Your Hume Servt. H. Dearborn RC (DLC); at foot of text: “the President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the War Department on 29 Oct. and “Bill concerning vessels arming” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: probably Document ii.
From Caldcleugh & Thomas Sir Philadelphia Oct. 23. 1804 When Mr. Claxton was in this City some time ago, he requested us to order from London for your use, six patent Lamps of a particular form & color; he also requested us to inform you of their arrival, in order that you might direct their destination—the Ship Active arrived yesterday & the Lamps conformable to order are in her, they will be landed in the course of a few days & if you will be pleased to give us the necessary directions they shall be forwarded immediately after they are opened—we take the liberty of mentioning that by the same Vessel we have received a number of mantle piece fountain Lamps, of which Kind Mr Claxton informed us you would probably be in 595
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want;—should this be the case we will forward with the other Lamps the nearest your directions as to form or pattern that we may have, which if not approved of can be returned— We are Sir With respect Yr. obdt. Servts. Caldcleugh & Thomas RC (MHi); at foot of text: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esquire”; endorsed by TJ as received 25 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Caldcleugh & Thomas were stationers and paper hanging factors with stores on Baltimore Street in Baltimore and Chestnut Street in Philadelphia. They regularly advertised for sale a wide variety of imported merchandise, including blank books, globes, maps, portable desks, cutlery, patent lamps, ornamental candlesticks, and chandeliers. They also “made and sold” Abraham Bradley’s 1804 postal map of the United States (Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser, 12 Nov.; James
Robinson, The Baltimore Directory, for 1804 [Baltimore, 1804], 4; Robinson, The Philadelphia Directory, for 1807 [Philadelphia, 1807], n.p.; Federal Gazette & Baltimore Daily Advertiser, 25 May 1801; Relfs Philadelphia Gazette, 5 May, 2 Oct. 1804; Vol. 41:267-8). In 1801, Thomas claxton tried to obtain four brass patent lamps for the president’s drawing room, as well as “green semi vase lamps” (Vol. 34:135, 194). The firm advertised “Elegant new Patent Lamps” and other items of “very elegant and entire new patterns” newly arrived on the ship active from London (Relfs Philadelphia Gazette, 22 Oct.).
From Henry Dearborn Sir Octobr. 23d. 1804 Having attentively perused the remarks you honourd me with on the subject of Indian lands, I take the liberty of submitting the following observations. We ought undoubtedly to imbrace the earliest opportunity for meeting the present overtures of the Chocktaws, and of securing an additional session as contemplated in your remarks, if practicable on reasonable terms.— The establishment of houses of entertainment on the road between the Tennessee river & the Chickasaw Towns would very much diminish the difficulties in traveling through that extensive wilderness, but if the Cherokees are disposed to set a great value on a grant for that purpose, it may be advisable to wave it for the present. It would be a very desireable thing to obtain a cession from the Cherokees of a strip of land bordering on the Mississippi, and for the obtainment of this object, strong and impressive arguments may be used with certain Chiefs with a probability of success.— how far we may venture to extend credit with our present funds, is a question of some delicacy, as our respective stores can only be replen 596
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ished with goods by remittances from them, and of course would soon become empty if credit to any conciderable amount should be given for a length of time.— When the Chocktaws can with safety be prohibited from crossing the Mississippi for the purpose of hunting, they will be laid under strong inducements to exchange their present residence for lands on the other side the river, but I doubt whether we can with propriety calculate on the removal of the Creeks or Chocktaws to the west side of the Mississippi within the course of the next twenty years.— I presume we must wait for more particular information in relation to the Sacs Renards & Sious before any ultimate arrangements can be made relative to either of those Nations.— Alth’o we may not have the power to prevent wars between the Indians on the different sides of the Mississippi, we may through our Agents prevail on them to settle their disputes by other means than that of the tomehawk, and I trust that no means in our power will be neglected which will tend to a general peace & harmony with those unhappy people. It will undoubtedly be proper to avail ourselves of every favourable circumstance for securing the confidence and friendship of the Osages, but I suspect it will require conciderable time to reconsile their minds to any arrangement which shall have for its object the placing of any such Nation or Nations within their immediate neighborhood as are now concidered as enimies, and espesally such as they are in a state of actual war with. with the highest respect I am Sir Your Obedt. Servt. H. Dearborn RC (DLC); at head of text: “To the President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the War Department on 23 Oct. and “Indian affairs” and so recorded in SJL. remarks: Memorandum for Henry Dearborn on Indian Policy, 20 Oct. earliest opportunity: in a letter of 25 Oct. to Silas Dinsmoor, the U.S. agent to the Choctaws, Dearborn advised that given the Choctaw leaders’ request to exchange land for debt relief, Dinsmoor was to prepare the way for treaty negotiations
during the following spring. He urged Dinsmoor to press the chiefs to cede enough territory “so as to contain all the Choctaw Lands between the Mississippi and the Big Black and a line extended” north or north by east to the boundary of the Chickasaws’ land, a boundary that Dinsmoor was to ascertain. In calculating the sum the United States might pay for the lands, Dinsmoor was to estimate the annual proceeds the Choctaws earned from trading furs (DNA: RG 75, LSIA; Terr. Papers, 5:342-4).
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From Henry Dearborn Sir War Department Octr. 24th. 1804 I have the honor to request, that you will be pleased to appoint Capt Callender Irvine, Superintendent of the military Stores of the United States in the room of Genl William Irvine deceased. Accept Sir the assurances of high respect & consideration FC (Lb in DNA: RG 107, LSP). From 1804 to 1812, Callender Irvine served as the superintendent of military
stores at the Schuylkill Arsenal (Heitman, Dictionary, 1:564).
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir Wednesday [24 Oct. 1804] In what manner should the records applied for be transmitted. May Govr. Claiborne be directed by the Secy. of State to deliver them to Mr Shields as agent of the United States, or to the board of Commissioners? With great respect Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); partially dated; at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as a letter of 24 Oct. received that day from the Treasury Department with notation “land records of N.O.” and so recorded in SJL. William B. shields, the Mississippibased U.S. agent in charge of investigating land claims in areas south of Tennessee, wrote to Gallatin on 29 Sep. and
apparently requested copies of Spanish records in New Orleans. In a letter of 5 Nov., Gallatin informed Shields that the administration had requested Claiborne’s cooperation and limited Shields to $200 for transcriptions of the records. Claiborne enclosed extracts of the requested records in a letter of 10 May 1805 to Shields (Terr. Papers, 5:327-8, 341, 345; Rowland, Claiborne Letter Books, 3:52).
From Richard Harrison Dear Sir Auditors Office Oct. 24. 1804 I have at length the pleasure to inform you that your Accounts as Minister to France have been adjusted, closed, and reported by me to the Comptroller This pleasure has been delayed to a much later period than I had anticipated or wished; but the truth is that, although I was early satisfied of the accuracy of these Accounts, they could never, untill since the return of Mr. Short, be arranged and stated so as to reconcile them in a proper manner with those of the Bankers 598
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or with the records of the Treasury.—The chief difficulty, as you will recollect, originated with the Bankers themselves. Every thing, however, is now cleared up, and stands, I believe, on its true ground. The Bill drawn and credited by you under date of the 21. Oct. 1789 for Bco. ƒ 2800, having never yet appeared in any Account of the Dutch Bankers, stands at your debit only as a provisional charge. If it should hereafter turn out, as I incline to think it will, that this bill has never been negotiated or used by Mr. Grand, you will have a just claim on the public for its value. I have the honor to be, as I have always been, with sentiments of the highest respect, Dr. Sir Your obed. & very humble Servt. R. Harrison RC (DLC); at head of text: “private”; at foot of text: “Mr. Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ as received 25 Oct. and so recorded in SJL.
this pleasure has been delayed: that is, since 28 Sep. 1795, when Harrison wrote TJ that he had received the accounts from Grand & Cie. in Paris and saw but three obstacles to a final settlement (Vol. 28:485-6).
From Benjamin H. Latrobe Dear Sir Wilmington October 24h. 1804 I arrived here on the 18th. and had the honor to receive Your letter of the 5th. Octr.—I immediately wrote to the works respecting your Iron, & have received for answer that it would be ready to go to Richmond in one Month. In my letter, I ordered our Roller to go to Jones & Howell, late Howell & Roberts to enquire as to the mode of welding the ends of the sheets together. On this point I have received no answer,—but shall again urge it by todays post.— The board of directors of the Ches. & Del. Canal Company did not make a quorum & have adjourned to the 20th. Nov. before which time, I intend to be in Washington, and am now exerting myself to arrange for this visit.—I am with the sincerest respect & gratitude Yrs. faithfully B H Latrobe RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 13 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosed in Latrobe to TJ, 9 Nov.
599
From Abigail Adams Sir Quincy october 25 1804 Sickness for three weeks past, has prevented my acknowledging the receipt of your Letter of Septr. the 11th. when I first addrest you, I little thought of entering into a correspondence with you upon political topicks. I will not however regret it, since it has led to some Elucidations and brought on some explanations, which place in a more favourable light occurrences which had wounded me. Having once entertained for you a respect and esteem, founded upon the Character of an affectionate Parent, a kind Master, a candid and benevolent Friend, I could not suffer different political opinions to obliterate them from my mind, and I felt the truth of the observation, that the Heart is long, very long in receiving the conviction that is forced upon it by reason. Affection still lingers in the Bosom, even after esteem has taken its flight. It was not untill circumstances concured to place you in the light of a Rewarder and encourager of a Libeller whom you could not but detest and despise, that I withdrew the esteem I had long entertaind for you. Nor can you wonder Sir that I should consider as personal unkindnesses the instances I have mentiond. I am pleased to find that, which respected my son, alltogether unfounded. he was as you conjecture appointed a commissoner of Bankrupcy together with Judge Daws, and continued to serve in it, with perfect Satisfaction to all parties, at least I never heard the contrary, untill superseded by a new appointment. The Idea sugested, that no one was in office, merely because it was not perminant, and concequently no removal could1 take place, I cannot consider in any other light, than what the Gentlemen of the Law would term a quible— as such I pass it—Judge Daws was continued; or reappointed which placed mr Adams, in a more conspicuous light, as the object of personal resentment. nor could I upon this occasion refrain calling to mind the last visit you made me at Washington, when in the course of conversation you assured me, that if it should lay in your power to serve me or my family, nothing would give you more pleasure. I will do you the justice to say at this hour: that I believe what you then said, you then meant. with respect to the office it was a small object, but the disposition of the Remover was considered by me as the barbed arrow. this however by your declaration, is withdrawn from my mind, with the public it will remain. and here Sir may I be permitted to pause, and ask you whether in your ardent zeal, and desire to rectify the mistakes, and abuses as you may consider them, of the former administrations, you are not led into measures still more fatal 600
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to the constitution, and more derogatory to your honour, and independence of Character? pardon me Sir if I say, that I fear you are. I know from the observations which I have made that there is not a more difficult part devolves upon a chief Majestrate, nor one which subjects him to more reproach, and censure than the appointments to office. and all the patronage which this enviable power gives him, is but a poor compensation for the responsibility to which it subjects him. it would be well however to weigh and consider Characters as it respects their Moral worth and integrity. he who is not true to himself, nor just to others, seeks an office for the benifit of himself, unmindfull of that of his Country. I cannot agree, in opinion that the constitution ever meant to withhold from the National Government the power of self defence, or that it could be considerd, an infringment of the Liberty of the press, to punish the licentiousness of it— Time Sir must determine, and posterity will judge with more candour, and impartiality, I hope than the conflicting parties of our day, what measures have best promoted the happiness of the people; what raised them from a state of depression and degradation to wealth, honor, and reputation; what has made them affluent at home, and respected abroad, and to whom ever the tribute is due to them may it be given— I will not Sir any further intrude upon your time, but close this correspondence, by my sincere wishes, that you may be directed to that path which may terminate in the prosperity and happiness of the people over whom you are placed, by administring the Government with a just and impartial hand. Be assured Sir that no one will more rejoice in your success than Abigail Adams RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 11 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. FC (MHi: Adams Papers); entirely in Abigail Adams’s hand except for postscript by John Adams: “Quincy Nov. 19. 1804 The whole of this Correspondence was begun and conducted without my Knowledge or Suspicion. Last Evening and this Morning at the desire of Mrs Adams I read the whole. I have no remarks to make upon it at this time and in this place. J. Adams.” i first addrest you: Abigail Adams to TJ, 20 May. judge daws: Thomas Dawes, Jr., served on the Massachusetts Supreme
Judicial Court from 1792 to 1803. After federal district judge John Davis discharged him for liability for his own debts on 23 Jan. 1802, he remained on the bench but continued as a probate judge and as a Boston municipal judge. He oversaw 120 subsequent bankruptcy cases (Bruce H. Mann, Republic of Debtors: Bankruptcy in the Age of American Independence [Cambridge, Mass., 2002], 222, 329; Aïda DiPace Donald and David Donald, eds., Diary of Charles Francis Adams, 8 vols. [Cambridge, Mass., 196486], 1:1). 1 MS:
601
“could could.”
From Samuel A. Otis Sir Office of the Secretary of Senate U States 25th Octr 1804 Agreeably to the order of Senate I lay before you a transcript of their record when acting in their executive capacity, inclusive of the last Session.1 I have the honor to be With the highest respect Your most obedient humble Servant Sam A Otis RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 27 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. order of senate: on 27 Jan. 1792, the Senate ordered that the president “be
furnished with an authenticated transcript of the Executive records of the Senate, from time to time” (jep, 1:99). 1 MS:
“Sesssion.”
From Robert Smith Sir, [25 Oct. 1804] Mr Phipps is well known here. He is an inoffensive, well disposed man; but he is incapable of discharging the duties of a Lieutenant or of a Sailing Master on board a Man of War. From a principle of Charity in consideration of his age he has been retained in service. He may have claims for a pension but he certainly has no pretensions to promotion. And the letters produced by him only form another instance of the facility with which gentlemen interest themselves in behalf of an individual and in a Case wherein they confessedly are not competent to form an Opinion. Mr Phipps has always appeared to me, very grateful for the Office he now holds and I believe I am safe in asserting that here, where he is known, he has never said that he ought to be promoted. If he had been fit for service as his Connecticut-friends seem to consider him, I certainly would have attached him to one of the frigates of the squadron lately sent out. With sentiments of high Esteem & Respect I am sir, Your Ob. Ser. Rt Smith RC (DLC); undated; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 25 Oct. 1804 and “Phipps” and so recorded in SJL.
David phipps wrote to TJ on 15 Oct. from New Haven (see Appendix iv).
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From Robert Smith Sir, [25 Oct. 1804] When Mr Ludlow was Navy Agent I received a letter from the wife of Danl Baldwin exhibiting him to our view as an Object of Charity, and soliciting some employment for him at the Navy Yard of NewYork. Not knowing his pretensions or qualifications I referred him to the Navy Agent and at the same time authorised mr Ludlow in his discretion to assign him some suitable station. Mr Ludlow in his answer stated “Capt Baldwin I took on my first appointment from Charity & employed him. He was discharged from having no further call for his services” It hence appeared that he had been employed and had been discharged. The present Navy Agent was appointed from the strong recommendations of Clinton & others our best friends. In their estimation he stands very high and therefore I would willingly persuade myself there is no foundation for the vague insinuations of this Man Baldwin. It is however proper that our attentions to this as to every other publick establishment should without intermission be given—With the highest respect. Your Hmble Servt. Rt Smith RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 153:26778); undated; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 25 Oct. and “Baldwin”; recorded in SJL as received 25 Oct. 1804 with notation “Baldwin’s applicn.” i referred him: on 27 Jan. 1803, Smith forwarded Phebe Baldwin’s letter
to Daniel Ludlow and requested that the navy agent give her husband “any employment for which he may be able and fit” (FC in Lb in DNA: RG 45, MLS). For the appointment of Samuel Osgood as the present navy agent, see TJ to DeWitt clinton, 22 Apr. 1803. vague insinuations: see Baldwin to TJ, 8 Oct.
From Albert Gallatin [on or after 26 Oct. 1804]
To be returned after perusal The course adopted in this is the same as1 in all other similar cases. The law vests a right to certain shares either in the informers or custom house officers. If any dispute arises as to the persons in whom that right is vested, it must be decided by the judiciary under the law. We cannot here, not to speak of want of time to spend in such details, have the evidence which will prove the contested facts; and if we attempted to do it, though our officers might abide by our decisions, other individuals would not.— 603
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Note. I found their letter here on my arrival on 17th Septer., & answered it the 21st. They would have received it long before 15th Octer. had they called at the post office Simons’s copy which went by same mail had been received on 13th. RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25367); undated, but see note below; entirely in Gallatin’s hand.
their letter: see Robert Butler to TJ, 15 Oct., which TJ received on 26 Oct. 1 MS:
“as as.”
From William Kilty and Nicholas Fitzhugh, with Jefferson’s Order October 26: 1804
We the undersigned Judges beg leave humbly to represent to the president of the United States that when the Case of the within-named Thomas Duffy alias Thomas Rustick was stated for the purpose of obtaining a pardon, we were under an impression from Memory that he had been convicted of petit Larceny only.—Had it occurred to us that he was confined on any other Charge, we would have recommended a general pardon—We presume that his further imprisonment will be very injurious to his large & helpless Fam[ily] who depend on his Labours for their Support W Kilty N Fitzhugh [Order by TJ:] Nov. 20. 1804. Let a pardon issue
Th: Jefferson
RC (DNA: RG 59, GPR); torn; in a clerk’s hand, signed by Kilty and Fitzhugh; written at foot of enclosure No. 1. Enclosures: (1) Transcript of the proceedings against Thomas Duffy, alias Rustick, and others at the April 1804 session of the U.S. Circuit Court for the District of Columbia, at which Duffy was found guilty of riotous behavior and assault, and fined $12 and costs (Tr in same). (2) Probably transcript of the proceedings against Thomas Duffy, alias Rustick, and Charles Grymes at the June 1803 session of the U.S. Circuit Court for the District of Columbia, at which the defendants were found guilty of assault and battery and fined $20 and $10, respectively, and costs (same).
For TJ’s earlier pardon of thomas duffy, see Petition of Thomas Duffy (Thomas Rustic), 23 July. Although pardoned for only one of his three convictions, Duffy had been released from jail by District of Columbia marshal Daniel Carroll Brent. Realizing his error, and knowing that the district judges intended a general pardon, Brent consulted them and was told not to take Duffy back into custody until an application was made to pardon his remaining convictions. In an 18 Nov. letter to an unidentified recipient, Brent enclosed records of the two cases and the judges’ recommendation in Duffy’s favor and asked the recipient “to lay the subject before the President, & inform me, as soon as convenient, of his
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26 OCTOBER 1804 determination” (MS in DNA: RG 59, GPR). On 26 Nov., TJ signed a pardon for “Thomas Duffey, otherwise called Thomas
Rustic,” remitting the fines and costs from his riot and assault convictions (FC in Lb in same).
From Nicholas Meriwether Lewis Dear Sir, Jefferson County Octor 26th 1804 I have for two years past lived between two and three Miles below Louisville, and about the same distance from a late purchase made of the Indeans, lying from the Warbash River, up the Ohio. If no surveyor is yet appointed to that purchase, I take the liberty to offer myself for that post. From the long acquaintance I have had the honor of having with you, I conceive recommendations unnecessary. As to my ability to fill that post, I have for many years been no farther interested in mathematics, than common surveying which I have had considerable practice in since I have been in Kentucky. While a student with parson Waddle, I studied Euclid, trigonometry, Surveying, Navigation, and several other things connected with Mathematics, so much as would be necessary, I should carefully revise, if I succeed in the appointment, and devote my whole attention to the business if requesit. My family have enjoyed good health since we left Albemarle Your Most Obedt. Servt. Nicholas M. Lewis RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 15 Nov. and “to be Surveyor in the Delaware purchase” and so recorded in SJL. late purchase: see TJ to the Senate, 15 Nov.
parson waddle: that is, James Waddell, the Irish minister and educator who ran a respected “classical school” near Charlottesville (J. Lewis Peyton, History of Augusta County, Virginia [Staunton, Va., 1882], 355; Madison, Papers, 11:51n).
To John Rush Washington Oct. 26. 04.
Th: Jefferson presents his salutations to Dr. John Rush and his thanks for the tract sent him on the elements of life which he shall read in the first leisure moment with attention & pleasure. the subject is one of the most curious & interesting which can occupy the mind, and he percieves it is treated with that freedom which alone can promise sound result. PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ.
sent him: see John Rush to TJ, at 15 Oct.
605
From Joseph Chambers Sir, Hobuckintoopa October 27th. 1804. I have to announce to you the sad & melancholy intelligence that Colonel Ephraim Kirby is no more, he expired about 4. OClock before noon of the 20th. Current, and his Corpse, was interred with Military honors, at 3. O:Clock of the 28th:—It may not be unsatisfactory for you to be informed, that the Military at Fort Stoddert gave very great respect and attention to his funeral: Capt. P. P. Schuyler commanding. An Inventory of the Colonels, books, papers and other effects have been taken, and (the papers carefully) sealed up:—they will be forwarded by David Parmelee, Clerk to the late board of Commissioners & a resident of Litchfield Connecticut, & the particular friend of the Colonel, to be delivered to Mrs. Kirby or such other person as may be legally authorised to receive them. From a knowledge of the respectful and confidential regard which you had for Colonel Kirby, I have been induced to make this communication directly to you I have the honor to be, Sir, With respectful attachment Your mot. obedt. Servt. Joseph Chambers RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr. President of the U. States.”; endorsed by TJ as received 4 Dec. and so recorded in SJL. In 1802, Joseph Chambers of North Carolina became the first U.S. factor for the Choctaw trading house at Fort St. Stephens in Mississippi Territory, and later, the area’s first postmaster. In 1804, on the recommendation of Ephraim Kirby, TJ appointed Chambers the register of
the Washington County land office, an additional responsibility that he accepted reluctantly. In late 1807, Chambers left the territory to return to his home state of North Carolina (James P. Pate, ed., The Reminiscences of George Strother Gaines: Pioneer and Statesman of Early Alabama and Mississippi, 1805-1843 [Tuscaloosa, Ala., 1998], 40, 48; Terr. Papers, 5:176, 342, 421; Dearborn to Chambers, 1 Aug. 1807, in DNA: RG 75, LSIA; TJ to Jacob Wagner, 5 Oct. 1804).
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, New-Orleans October 27th. 1804 There is not in this Territory, all that political Union, which I could wish; But I verily believe that the Discontents are not extensive, nor do I think them of a serious nature.—The Memorial no doubt, was signed by many Citizens; But I nevertheless do not view that Instrument as a fair expression of the public will.—Twenty persons composed the first meeting; three or four Sketches of a petition 606
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to Congress were presented; (of which only one hinted at a state Government)—A select Committee however, (of which Mr. Livingston was a Member) was appointed to draft a final Memorial, and to that Committee, the rough sketches were refered.—How far Mr. Livingston was aided by these sketches I know not; But the memorial reported by the Committee was read to about 150 persons, who were assembled in the City, and without discussion immediately adopted and signed; It was afterwards carried thro’ the Territory, in every direction; Many signed without reading; numbers without understanding its Contents, and Report says, that the Names of others were affixed without having seen it.— The Louisianians never before were called upon to sign a political Paper;—some no doubt, thought they had real grievances, and many were made to think so;—But the Impression among the latter, I am certain was not durable; and I am persuaded the great Body of the Signers care but little as to the success of their Congressional Agents; unless indeed, in relation to the African Trade; and on this subject, the people in general (greatly to my mortification) feel a lively Interest:— I am persuaded also, that a majority of the better informed Citizens would be pleased with the election of the Legislative Council—But if Louisiana was made a State of immediately, I firmly believe that the Inhabitants would become a very, very dissatisfied People. In New-Orleans, there are many Native frenchmen who encourage discontents, and who derive assistance from the Spanish Agents.— The Louisianians are an amiable People;—But I fear they are credulous, and too apt to give credit to the tales of designing Men;—But whatever may be the issue of the Memorial to Congress, I am persuaded, that the public tranquility here will be preserved—The Louisianians generally, are attached to good order, manifest a respect for Government, and an obedience to the Law.—Among the Louisianians I know but few violent Men; M. Bore is perhaps the most so;— He is a frenchman in his affections and principles; but his Talents are below mediocrity;—As a man however he is respected, for he is honest & industrious; a good Farmer, a friendly neighbour, and an Affectionate Husband & Parent:—Madam Bore is a great Politician, and is said to shape the political Crede of her Husband; It is Mr Bore’s opinion, that if the Memorial is not entirely granted, an appeal should immediately be made to Bonaparte; But I have not heard a similar sentiment attributed to a Louisianian.— I am sorry to find, that our negociations with Spain are not likely to be brought to a speedy conclusion; I sincerely hope, that an honorable accommodation may be effected;—But if a Rupture should unfortunately 607
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ensue, I believe our Government will find her Citizens united, and she may confidently rely upon the prompt and persevering efforts of the western People to support the Claims and maintain the Glory of our Country.—I speak of the western people more particularly, because in the event of a War with Spain, they would probably be first called upon to act.— I find Kemper’s Riot, for it cannot fairly be called an Insurrection, is viewed to the northward, as an important affair, and that it has been used by the Spanish Minister among others, as a pretext for calumniating our administration:—Had the Marquis of Cassa Calvo; advised the Minister of my Letters upon that affair, he would have given less credit to his New-Orleans Correspondent: The Marquis was assured by me, that Kemper was not encouraged by any officer of the United States, and that my Government would hear with regret of the disturbances at Batton-Rouge.— I again repeat, that I earnestly desire to see the United States at Peace with all the World;—But if a War, should arise, I shall esteem myself particularly fortunate to be placed in a situation to render some service to my Country.— I pray God to preserve you in health and happiness.— I am, Dear Sir, With great respect! Your faithful friend! William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thos: Jefferson President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 4 Dec. and so recorded in SJL. kemper’s riot: on 7 Aug., brothers Nathan and Samuel Kemper, along with about 30 followers, crossed from Mississippi Territory into West Florida in an attempt to seize Baton Rouge and arouse local inhabitants into rebellion against the Spanish government. In broadsides the Kempers declared their group “a free and independent people” and called on their “fellow sufferers throughout the province” to join them and effect their “common emancipation.” The incursion failed and the Kempers withdrew back to Mississippi Territory. Writing to Claiborne on 11 Aug., the Marqués de Casa Calvo demanded the arrest of the Kempers and other participants, as did Carlos Martínez
de Irujo in a strongly worded 22 Oct. letter to Madison. Claiborne replied to Casa Calvo on 27 Aug., assuring him that “the Insurgents in West Florida have never received any encouragement or countenance in any Shape from the American Government or its Officers.” Writing to Claiborne and acting governor Cato West of Mississippi Territory on 12 Nov., Madison gave instructions regarding the arrest of the participants, adding that it was “the Presidents express direction” that they use every means in their power, including the militia, to prevent such expeditions from U.S. territory against Spanish possessions (Andrew McMichael, Atlantic Loyalties: Americans in Spanish West Florida, 1785-1810 [Athens, Ga., 2008], 1, 91; Rowland, Claiborne Letter Books, 2:308-10; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:637-8; 8:83-4, 203-4, 237, 263, 281, 285).
608
From John Parrish Honoured friend Thomas Jefferson Philada 10th Mo. 27th: 1804— My mind for many years have been engaiged in religious concern on account of the sufferings which are inflicted on the African Race more especially in the United States some of which I laid before thee when at the Federal City on my return from our Yerley Meeting in Virginia as they continue unredressed I remain deeply impressed with a weighty consideration thereof and beleive it right to offer to thy serious attention a few observations on the subject. The common reason or excuse for the delay of Justice in their case is that the Constitution does not allow the subject to come before the General Legislature previous to the Year 1808.—The 9th section relating merely to migration and importation cannot I apprehend be extended to an exclusion of that people already in the Country from the benifits of Goverment for if it ment that they should receive no countenance nor be protected in the enjoyment of those privilidges which are declared to be the unalienable rights of every man is it not absurd to make use of them in apportioning the number of representatives to Congress If threefifths of them are admited in constituting members of that body surely a member from one of these States must be in a very awkward situation when after taking his seat he is restrained from appearing on behalf of those he represents in this respect he must be considered as a mere cypher.—The Constitution is silent as to colour nor does it characterise any with the name of slave as this would have been obviously repugnant to the bill of rights ambiguous expressions are resorted to and the supreme Law of the Land which should be in the most clear intelligible unequivocal language is left for constructions which interested men may make extremely injurious to a helpless unoffending people. Whatever distinctions we may attempt they are men they are of one blood with us have the same feelings and are the workmanship of the same Almighty God objects of the same gracious redemtion which Christ our Blessed Lord has purchased for his rational creation and as they act uprightly according to the gift bestowed will be entitled to his heavenly acceptance.—Is it not then beneath the dignity of the statesmen the Christian and the Gentleman to accept a seat in Goverment through their means and at the same time abandon their cause as tho they wore no part of his constituants excuse my freedom. the exercise of my mind is deep and the subject of such importance that necessarily constrains to plainness. Thou hast 609
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with pertinance exclaimed in thy notes on Virginia—“With what execration shall the Statesman be loaded that suffers one half of the Citizens to trample on the rights of the other.” As Congress is the grand In Quest of the whole United States over whom thou in the permission of Divine Wisdom doest preside I earnestly beseech that this unhappy oppressed part of our fellow beings may claim the tender regard of thee and all who are intrusted with the reins of Government that your power may be exerted to the utmost for their relief and redress with out delay.—Goverment being of Divine institution and put into the hands of men as we are accountable beings it becomes highly interesting to our eternal felicity that a faithfull execution of the trust be solemnly impressive up on us that mercy and equity may be conscientiously and impartially adhered to.— through an apprehension of duty required in my advanced time of life I have presented the foregoing for thy serious consideration sincerely desiring thou mayest have no cause to repent when too late that opportunities for contributing thy aid in the cause of righteousness have been neglected. from thy real friend John Parrish RC (ViW: Tucker-Coleman Collection); addressed: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States City of Washington”; franked; postmarked 29 Oct.; endorsed by TJ as received 31 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. John Parrish (1729-1807), originally from a prominent Quaker family in Maryland, moved to Pennsylvania, where he became a missionary and minister of the Society of Friends. He traveled to Barbados in 1784 and to New York and the Northwest Territory in the 1790s, serving in Quaker delegations as an observer during treaty negotiations between various Indian tribes and the U.S. government. He also traveled extensively in Pennsylvania and Michigan and kept journals on Native American relations and grievances. Parrish became an active advocate of the total abolition of slavery. He was one of the representatives of the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting who petitioned Congress unsuccessfully in 1797-98 on behalf of free blacks in North Carolina who had been captured and returned to bondage. In 1806, he published an abolitionist tract, Remarks on the Slavery of Black People (Susanna Parrish Wharton, The Parrish
Family [Philadelphia, 1925], 62-4, 225; Annals, 7:655-70, 1032-3; jhr, 3:94-5; Washington, Papers, Pres. Ser., 12:417; 13:411-12; Relfs Philadelphia Gazette, 26 Oct. 1807; New York Public Advertiser, 31 Oct. 1807; Parrish, Remarks on the Slavery of Black People; Addressed to the Citizens of the United States, Particularly to Those Who Are in Legislative or Executive Stations in the General or State Governments; and Also to Such Individuals as Hold Them in Bondage [Philadelphia, 1806], 22, 54-7). According to the ninth section of Article 1 of the Constitution, Congress would not prohibit migration or importation of slaves prior to 1808. exclaimed in thy notes on virginia: the line from Query 18 on “Manners” reads “And with what execration should the statesman be loaded, who permitting one half the citizens thus to trample on the rights of the other, transforms those into despots, and these into enemies” (Notes, ed. Peden, 162-3). Throughout his pamphlet, Parrish directly challenged TJ and referenced his comments on slavery and race from Notes on the State of Virginia; see Remarks, 9-10, 16, 22, 23, 41.
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From N. D. F. de Saint-Paul rue neuve des petits
Monsieur Le Président, peres No. 12. 27 8bre 1804. J’ai L’honneur de vous adresser un ouvrage dont le but Est De répandre la plus grande masse de bonheur Individuel dans Les Empires. J’ai suivi en partie Les traces que la Sagesse de votre administration m’avoit marquée, Etant Convaincu que le Sistême des richesses Fictives est le Seul qui puisse Convenir à une Grande Nation. J’ai prié Son Excellence M. De Levingston, de vouloir bien vous Faire remarquer que Je m’empresserois de me rendre aux Invitations qui pourroient M’être faites au nom des Etats unis, pour associer mes pensées aux travaux de L’administration que vous dirigez, dans le Cas ou vous viendriez, Monsieur Le Président, à reconnoître qu’il Seroit utile de Mettre En activité le mode D’Emprunt que J’ai Développé, soit pour Eteindre les dettes publiques, soit pour en arretter les progrés. Si Des Secours Extraordinaires devenoient Indispensables par des circonstances qui souvent affligent les pays au moment où ils Se Croient Le plus À L’abri D’en Supporter Le Fléau. Je Suis avec un profond respect Monsieur Le Président, Votre très humble et très Obeissant Serviteur. D. De St Paul e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Mister President, 12, rue Neuve des Petits Pères, 27 Oct. 1804 I have the honor of sending you a work whose goal is to spread as much personal happiness as possible across empires. In some ways I have followed the path you traced for me with the wisdom of your administration. I am convinced that a system of virtual wealth is the only one that befits a great nation. I have asked his Excellency Mr. Livingston to inform you that I would readily accept any invitation the United States might extend, to link my ideas to the work of your administration, should you come to believe, Mister President, that it would be useful to enact the kind of borrowing I have conceived, either to clear the public debt or to halt its progress, if exceptional help were needed because of conditions that often afflict countries just when they believe they are most immune to the scourge. With deep respect, Mister President, I am your very humble and obedient servant. D. De St Paul RC (MHi); at head of text: “N. D. F. De St. Paul, ancien capitaine D’artillerie. À Monsieur Le Président Des Etats unis.” Recorded in SJL as received from Paris 17 May 1805. Enclosure: D. de SaintPaul, De la possibilité d’éteindre les dettes publiques, ou moyen de fonder une caisse d’amortissement qui puisse sensiblement at-
teindre le but de son établissement (Paris, 1804). Saint-Paul likely also enclosed a related pamphlet, Essai sur l’avantage des richesses fictives, par l’auteur des moyens d’éteindre les dettes publiques, which bore no publication information but presumably
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27 OCTOBER 1804 was printed in Paris within a month of his letter to TJ. The author proposed the
use of sinking funds to manage national debts (Sowerby, Nos. 2866-7).
From Justus Erich Bollmann Sir, Newyork October 28th. 1804. I have duely received Your Excellency’s Letter of the 17th. Inst. and am sensible of Your Kindness in taking the whole Invoice of the Hungary Wines. They shall be forwarded this Week agreable to Your Directions. The safest Way for Your Friend at Hamburg to procure the Wine will be at first to address himself to the same House at Mittelwalde in the County of Glatz, with Reference to the Invoice just received the Original of which I therefore inclose. I add the Account of Charges at Hamburg, which are heavy, and some of which may perhaps be saved in future. In ascertaining the Cost of the Wine I had calculated the Duties myself, but I find that the Custom house charges only $23.85 instead of $54. How this happens I know not, but in Consequence of it the Amount of the Whole will only be $546.43. In the Offer of the Consulship at the City of St. Domingo I see a new and flattering Proof of Your Excellency’s friendly Disposition towards me and I should be tempted to accept of it if I had not engaged sometime ago in a little Operation for the immediate Support of my Family. It consists in the Purchase of Barley—which is raised in great Perfection in the County on Long Island where I now happen to reside—for the Supply of the Philadelphia Market, and it will require, I apprehend, my personal Attention to it during the greater Part of the ensuing Winter. As I consider this however merely as a temporary Occupation I hope Your Excellency will permit me to reckon on the Continuance of Your kind Intention to employ me if hereafter a suitable Opportunity should occur. I remain with great Respect Your Excellency’s most obt. St. J. Erich Bollmann RC (MHi); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 31 Oct. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: invoice, in German, from Johann Carl Ludwig & Son to Bollmann,
Mittelwalde, 5 Apr., for 24 boxes (288 bottles) of “Ungar Wein” (MS in same; at head of text: “Duplicat”; endorsed by Bollmann).
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To Caldcleugh & Thomas Gentlemen Washington Oct. 28. 04. Your favor of the 23d. is at hand, and I will thank you to send the lamps (half a dozen) bespoke by mr Claxton which you have imported, with the note of their cost. vessels are constantly coming from Philadelphia to this place, or to Alexandria, which will bring them safely. with respect to the Mantle piece fountain lamps, perhaps you could give me some idea of their forms by a sketch which would enable me to select or decide without the trouble of sending them. those which are gilt or plated would be preferred to glass. Accept my salutations & respects. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Messrs. Caldcleugh & Thomas”; endorsed by TJ.
To William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir Washington Oct. 28. 04. By the same post which brought your letter announcing the death of mr Trist, I recieved one from mr Gelston covering a petition from merchants & other respectable characters of New Orleans praying the appointment of Wm. Brown his deputy to the office. I was singularly pleased to find the inclination I should have felt for making this appointment justified by an application entitled to so much respect. but this inclination was produced very much by my anxiety for the care of the mother, wife, & children of the deceased, whose connection with mr Brown was such as I hoped would secure to them a liberal participation in the profits, leaving still for him as handsome an income as he could with justice have ever expected. under these views I wrote an answer to mr Gelston, of which the inclosed is a copy. but you say he is dead. I can only then inclose it to you, and trust to your friendship for the late mr Trist to do what it was expected mr Gelston would have done for his mother, wife & children, and preserving the same secrecy as to myself which I relied on in him. but that letter has I suppose been opened by some friend of his authorised to do so. I trust then I may rely on the honor of that friend for the same secrecy which mr Gelston would have observed, in a case which has come to his cognisance by accident, and that he will have the goodness to deliver you the letter to be burnt with the copy I now inclose. you will observe it is not my wish that the ladies themselves should know of my interference. as the meeting of Senate will now be within a week 613
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I shall defer mr Brown’s commission till I get their ratification, & I will inclose it for him under cover to you.—what are you doing for Lafayette? I am extremely anxious to be enabled to say to him that we can pay his debts by the sale of town lots, & leave the rest of his donation clear for himself & family. pray keep me informed on this subject, and recieve my friendly salutations and assurances of respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “Govr. Claiborne.” Enclosure: TJ to John M. Gelston, 15 Oct. your letter: Claiborne to TJ, 29 Aug.
one from mr gelston: John M. Gelston to TJ, 1 Sep. you say he is dead: Claiborne to TJ, 18 Sep.
From Antoine Gouan montpellier 6. brumaire
Monsieur le président an XIII [i.e. 28 Oct. 1804] les epoques de la vie qui flattent notre ambition s’oublient aisement; mais celles qui flattent notre ame ne s’effacent jamais de notre esprit. je me rappellerai sans cesse de lhonneur que vous me fites à votre passage; des heures que vous me sacrifiates, et des choses curieuses, scientifiques qui firent le sujet de notre conversation. j’ay cherchè souvent l’occasion de vous en temoigner ma sensibilité. je la trouve aujourdhui a la faveur de mr. magnan de marseille, jeune homme rempli de talens, neveu de mr magnan medecin qui exerce a paris la medecine avec succès. je remets a mr magnan quatre dissertations. vous y trouverès le discours public qu’on exigea de moi sur un des plu grands phénomenes; sur lequel je desire avoir votre suffrage, ou votre avis; car en matieres scientifiques chacun doit, et peut avoir son opinion, libre et sans risque— j’y ajoute un petit envoy de graines de quelques arbres, ou plantes, que j’ay cru pouvoir vous faire plaisir, et etre acclimatées chès vous. le depart précipité de mr magnan ne m’a pas permis de le grossir, n’y dy joindre un exemplaire d’un nouvel ouvrage que mon imprimeur n’a pas encore livré au public recevés Monsieur le president ce petit hommage des sentimens d’estime et de respect gouan professeur honoraire mr. magnan joint a ses talens celui de la peinture, et il apporte avec lui un tableau capable de le faire connaitre avantageusement, sous le 614
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rapport d’amateur. je me flatte que vous l’honorerés de votre protection, j’ose dire qu’il la meritera e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Montpellier, 6 Brumaire Mister President, Year 13 [i.e. 28 Oct. 1804] We easily forget periods that flatter our ambition, but the ones that flatter our souls remain engraved in our minds. I will always remember the honor of your visit, the hours you spent with me, the curious, scientific matters about which we conversed. I have often sought an occasion to express my sentiments. Today I have found one on behalf of Mr. Magnan from Marseilles, a very talented young man. He is the nephew of Dr. Magnan, who has a successful medical practice in Paris. I am entrusting four essays to Mr. Magnan. One is the public address I was invited to deliver on one of the greatest phenomena. I would welcome your accord, or opinion, since in scientific matters everyone may, and must, have his own opinion, freely and without risk. I am adding a small package of seeds from trees and plants I thought would please you and would adapt to your climate. Mr. Magnan’s hasty departure did not allow me to send more or to add a copy of my new work that is still in press. Accept, Mister President, this small token of my esteem and respect. gouan honorary professor Painting is one of Mr. Magnan’s talents, and he is bringing a painting that illustrates his work as an amateur artist. I flatter myself that you will honor him with your favor. I daresay he deserves it. RC (DLC); English date supplied at head of text: “gouan professeur honoraire de botanique et de matiere medicale, membre de l’institut national A Monsieur Jepherson president des etats unis”; endorsed by TJ; recorded in SJL as received 28 Mch. 1805. Enclosures not identified. Enclosed in Charles Philippe Magnan to TJ, 21 Mch. 1805. Antoine Gouan (1733-1821) was a French zoologist, botanist, and physician who graduated from the University of Montpellier in 1752 and later became a professor of botany and pharmacology. TJ met him in 1787 while touring southern France. A proponent of the classification system of Carl Linnaeus, Gouan wrote Explication du système botanique de Chevalier von Linné, which was published in Montpellier in 1787 and became a title in TJ’s library. Gouan was a member of the Linnaean societies of London
and Stockholm, the academies of Florence and Montpellier, the Institut de France, and the Légion d’honneur. He wrote important botanical guides about the flowers and royal gardens of Montpellier, of which he was the director. Among his other published works were a treatise on ichthyology and an 1802 speech on the movement of sap in plants (C. L. F. Panckoucke, ed., Dictionaire des sciences médicales: Biographie médicale [Paris, 1821], 4:492-7; Pascal Duris, Linné et la France [1750-1850] [Geneva, 1993], 41-3; Frans A. Stafleu, Linnaeus and the Linnaeans [Utrecht, 1971], 110, 269-71; Biographie universelle, ancienne et moderne, new ed., 45 vols. [Paris, 184365], 17:223-5; rs, 8:322n; Sowerby, No. 1079; Vol. 11:444). d’un nouvel ouvrage: Gouan’s Traité de botanique et de matière médicale was published in Montpellier in 1804.
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To Thomas Mann Randolph Dear Sir Washington Oct. 28. 04. I have learnt with extreme concern the rupture between Craven & Lilly, and percieve that it will become extremely embarassing & prejudicial to my affairs unless it can be made up. this can only be done by an oblivion of the past without going into any enquiry which was most in the wrong. I have pressed this in a conversation with Craven, & I think he may be brought to. I have written with equal strength to Lilly, to press a reconciliation on him. still they will want some one as a mediator: & I have mentioned to them that I will ask that favor of you. if you can possibly find time before your departure it would be a great satisfaction to me. I have prepared both so far that I am in hopes a single interview with each separately, and then a joint one to bring them together will be sufficient. it ought to be agreed between them that if either thinks that cause arises hereafter for complaint against the other, he shall come either to you or me, and we will obtain explanation from the other, and bring them to a proper understanding, without risking their attempting to settle it together. unless this can take place I percieve that I shall lose the one or the other, which would be a most embarrassing thing to me till I can be living at home myself. I think their mutual confidence in you would make them readier to come together under your mediation than any other. but should you be unable to spare the time I think Dr. Wardlaw’s good humour would make him a better instrument than any other, and he is intimate with both. I shall hope to see you on Sunday evening next. Wm. Brown will be appointed successor to Trist, as I find it is desired by the merchants of N. Orleans. J. M. Gelston is dead. deliver my tender affections to my dearest Martha, and kiss all the beloved children for me. Accept my affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson RC (DLC); at foot of text: “T M Randolph”; endorsed by Randolph as received 21 Nov. PoC (MHi); endorsed by TJ. learnt with extreme concern: Thomas Mann Randolph to TJ, 11 Oct. TJ’s letter to Gabriel Lilly pressing a reconciliation, likely one recorded in
SJL as written on 28 Oct., has not been found (see Appendix iv). favor of you: Randolph had experience mediating between Lilly and John Craven, whose relationship had been strained since Craven’s arrival to Tufton farm in late 1800 (Vol. 32:390-1; Vol. 34:327-8).
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From William Stephens Sir Savannah 28th Oct: 1804 General Mitchell having been elected a Senator, of our State Legislature, necessarily declines his appointment, as the Attorney for this District, the Constitution disqualifying any public Officer from a seat. It is with great satisfaction I mention, that Mr Mitchell, has, with fidelity discharged, the duties of the Office, to which you were pleased to appoint him, and stands high, in the General Opinion of the People of this State. I hope, it will not be considered an Intrusion, to name to you Mr. Wm. B. Bulloch, as well qualified to fill the vacant office of District Attorney;—This Gentleman has lately resigned the office of Attorney General of the State, the arduous duties, of which, he discharged, with great diligence and Integrity, and is now a Representative from our County and Metropolis to the ensuing Legislature; The session being an important one, it became very requisite, that proper Characters, should represent us, as well, from Local, as national Views. By Introducing Mr Bulloch, to your Notice, it is with truth, I assert, he is recommended, as a Gent. of sound Principles and Morals, and well deserving of any Confidence that may be placed in him—he is a Native of this City, and the Youngest Son, of Mr Archd. Bulloch, our first Governor, at the commencement of the Revolution, and amongst the first delegates for this State to Congress: Whilst mentioning Gen: Mitchell, and Mr Bulloch, I call to mind with pleasure, that they were both Students in my Office—I trust, Sir, on enquiry, that you will find my Introduction correct. As near Neighbors to the Spaniards, we feel an Anxiety, on the apparent differences between our Government, and the Crown of Spain, on the1 Subject of the Louisiana Boundary; As to myself, I rest very secure, in the wisdom of our Councils, they, forseeing that the Florida’s, being in Possession, of any power more enterprizing than the Spaniards would be injurious to the people of the United States, but a Serious evil to this State—hence the policy of a Good Understanding with Spain, or, the possession of the Florida’s ourselves—pardon this digression, and believe me, with the highest Esteem very Respectfully Sir Yr very obt Sert W. Stephens RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); addressed: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 13 Nov. and “Bullock Wm. B. to be distr. atty Georgia v. Mitchell” and so recorded in SJL.
A former state jurist and mayor of Savannah, William Stephens (1752-1819) received an appointment as U.S. district judge for Georgia from TJ in 1801. He served in the post until 1818 (Biographical
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28 OCTOBER 1804 Directory of the Federal Judiciary, 17892000 [Lanham, Md., 2001], 778; Vol. 34:3-4, 592; Vol. 36:331). David Brydie mitchell wrote to Madison on 29 Sep., tendering his resignation as U.S. attorney for Georgia. In a note on the same letter, Madison stated that U.S. Senator James Jackson had also recom-
mended William Bellinger bulloch as Mitchell’s successor (DNA: RG 59, RD; endorsed by TJ: “Bullock Wm. Bellinger to be Atty Distr. Georgia v. Mitchell D. B. who resigns”). 1 MS:
“the the.”
From Eben French Honored & Respected Sir, Boston, Oct. 29, 1804. You will forgive an illiterate youth, whose ambition, perhaps, may lead him beyond the steps of modesty;—in asking of you a favor which perhaps, may never be in his power to repay. I was the son of a poor, though respectable tradesman in this town, who has long since paid the debt of nature. As my mother had naught to depend on except that which she earned by her daily labor, two brothers of us, out of four, fell into the hands of an uncle, an honest upright, man, who has been a father to us, and did his means accord with his will, I should have no occasion, Sir, of addressing you, at this time. My mind was ever bent on a classical education, & since I have commenced my apprenticeship, which is now three years since I have had a more ardend wish than ever to obtain that education. Of all my friends not one possesses the power to assist me.—Could I find a benefactor, my eyes should never be closed in sleep until a prayer was addressed to God for his welfare & prosperity.—And gratitude towards my benefactor should ever be a predominent feature in my character. I have made bold Sir, to address you, hoping I shall give no offence;—and if you can find in your heart, a wish to assist a youth to obtain that, which fortune has denied him—He will ever conceive himself your debtor, even should it lay in his power at any future period to repay you to the utmost farthing. I am Sir, with Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant Eben French. P.S. Condescend to return an answer and confer a favor, which shall never be erased from my memory. RC (MHi); above postscript: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esq.”; endorsed by TJ as received 5 Nov. and so recorded in SJL.
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From Albert Gallatin Treasury Department 29 Octr. 1804
The departure of the Revenue Cutter intended for New Orleans being delayed only by the appointment of a second Mate, the propriety of directing a commission to issue in favour of George W. Perry in conformity with the Collector’s of Baltimore recommendation is respectfully submitted to the President of the United States by his most obedient Servant Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 29 Oct. and “Perry to be 2d. mate of Rev. cutter. N.O.” and so recorded in SJL.
Gallatin forwarded a letter from Robert Purviance of 26 Oct. that covered a petition with 10 signatures dated 25 Sep., all recommending Perry for the position (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ as received 30 Oct. and “Perry Geo. W. to be 2d. mate of a Rev. cutter”).
From John Haskell Portland
May it Please your Exelency. Sir 29th. Oct. 1804— your Illustreaus Name is Reverenced as A Savior of the Civil & Religious Liberties So Dearly Bought by the Ancestors of this Nation (& I might but Justly add Restorer of the Peoples Rights) Your Unbounded Inclinations To Serve the Nation for the Good and Happiness of Each & Every Individual has Gained you in them this fond Esteem in all our minds that had you withdrawn Yourself from the Fatiuges of Public Life it Would have Been A Loss So Severly Felt by the Nation at Large that it Never Could have Enjoyed that Happiness again that it has for 4 years Past and may thy Life be Continued for A Blessing to the people that wish to Enjoy Eaqual Rights without which no People can Enjoy Liberty. And the gratest Benifit that your Servant Who now Writes (or the People for I am One) can ask of you is that you would Still do that which may in the End Secure unto us the Long Continuance of them.—The People (I Beleive) are Convinced that you have Sir A Real Pleasur in finding out & following the Voice of the People & will through Life be Faithful to their Cause & Sincerely follow the Voice of the people, as being the Voice of God & When you Destinctly hear it Obey it as A Devine Call, with Spirit & Alacrity fearless of Every Consequence.—I Cant But Congratulate the people in general that we are Blessed with your 619
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Exelency for our Cheif Magestrate of this Nation.—Let their be A Comparison made of the Differance Between Mr. Jefferson’s Administration and that of Mr. Adams’s Administration the System of Pollicy Pursued by Mr. Adams was Narrow Selfish & Local, While that of Mr. Jefferson was Broad Liberal & National.— The former Flattered the People without Promoting their Intrest.— The Latter has Consulted Good & Happiness of the people.— The former Presided Over A Party & Devoted himself to their Views. The Latter Presides Over A Nation & Promotes the happiness of all The Former Commenced his Career with Hipocrisy & has Pursued it With Oppression.— the Latter’s Professions Were frank open & Sincere & allways Supported by his Actions.— The Former Employed Pens to Defame the Beloved & To Dishonor the Venerated.— The Latter Stood upon his Merit Sheilded by his honor The former Talked to the people of National Honor & Wasted their money Profusely & Unwarrantably & made War on A Nation which Under the Present Administration is Pacific & Amicable. the former did Establish A System of Monarchy & Corruption & Encourage a horde of Informers to the Destruction of that Confidence so Necessary to the Existence of Republican Government—He has through his Favorites Prospered & himself has Sanctioned A Law Vesting himself with Absolute & Uncontrolable power over all People which Sought this Country for the Sake of Liberty.—In fine his 4 years Administration have Exhibited A Disposition to Overthrow that fair Fabrick of Freedom which was Established by the United Voice of United America & nothing But Time was Wanting To Complete its Destruction.—But as Mr. Adams had had the Assistance of So many Pens & A Vast Number more Tongues & they all Expected their Reward According to the aid they had Given their was no Way To make Compensation But by Giving Offices With Large Salliries after all the Offices Was filled their was A Grait Number yet To Satisfy how was this To be Done here was A Remedy found at Once Create A Host of New Gudges1 & Other Subordinate Offices after this was Done their Remained yet Hundreds not yet Satisfied how Were these To be paid for their Barking Raise A Standing Army their is no need of this Army & no money To pay it Never mind their is so many that must have Offices & their must be ways Contrived To pay them an Army of Officers was Raised, But no Soldiers was Wanting.—how are they to be paid, Raise A Direct Tax & Stamp Act will make Roome for more Officers by this Time all the yelpers was Nearly put into 620
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Office with Good Salliries Except A few of minor Consideration was yet Standing Gaping for Somthing What To do with these was not yet found out at Last after finding their was no more Ways To make Room for them in Office it was Concluded to Debetize the whole of the Remainder at one Dash if their was no Employ Let them have A Name nothing more.—What have the Fedralists to Say in his Behalf they Say with Triumph, is not the Country in Prosperity—Certainly it is,—are not the people at Ease, True they are,—Is any Oppression felt, none at all,—Miserable Defenders to Boast that he has not Destroyed in 4 Short years the whole System of Public happiness,— Alarmed by this Procedure was it Possible to think that they would now Wait till Ruined Before they Attempted Redress by placing A man in the Chair of State Whome the People had more Confidence in & this man Whom the People knew by his Long tryed Services. Sir we Expected When you Came into Office that you Would Brighten the [. . .] Prosperity by Lessening Our Burdens by Dissipating the [. . .] of Oppression that Bore hard on our Shoulders We have not been Disappointed.—For you Never Gave Rest To Your Feet, nor Slumber to your Eyeleds Till you Repealed Stamp Act Sedition Law & Allien Law three acts of Oppression Likewise the Act Authorising Useless Gudges & their Subordinates & Disband the Standing Army of Officers by doing this you Saved the Credit of the Nation—Direct Tax & Other Useless & Expensive & Burdensom Taxes Repealed. & Those Burdens which Served To Agrandize the few & Oppress the Nation at Large are Taken of & the people freed of their Burdens— National Debt paid & National Expences Reduced National Credit Revived.—Now Truly may the People Say all with One Voice that the Country Prospers the People are at Ease & their is no Oppression in the Land & Strangers are Welcom To Come & Enjoy Freedom with us—At this Time I Shall add no more; But may God multiply his Blessings on your Person & Family, & Give Successes To Your Intentions for the Good of our Nation, & of his People in the World.— So Prays honorable Sir your most Sincere, & humble Servant— John Haskell PS Their is A Sett of Men that Oppress the Labouring & Poor Class of Citizens, as yet their is no Notice Taken To Restrain them these are the Lawyers of our County Courts, the Highest Fee Allowed them is Two Dollars fifty Cents, yet they Boldly Demand & Receive, Ten Times their Legal Fees.—This is Oppressing A Class of Citizens that are Generally Poor & are not able To pay their Small Contracts.—The Law made to Regulate their Fees are not Sufficiently 621
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Severe to Restrain Such Sampsons So Dangerously Combined.— they Acumelate Fortunes in A few years after they Begin to Practice in their Proffession & they do it by Taking Bread from the Children of the Poor Labouror.—I think this is Oppression & Ought To be Taken into Consideration—Can you in your Wisdom Devise A Way To Ease the People of this Oppression by Recommending To Congress A Law To be made To Restrain those Repatious Fedralists your Gratest Opposers they by their Wealth & Popularity have Gained To Grait an Assendency over the Common People if they were Brot A Little more To an Equal Standing with their fellow Citizens this part of the Country would not be So Scandelously Opposed To our happy Administration of Goverment.—Sir if you want A Collector of Revenue at any place Where [the] Incom would Support A Small Family I Should be Proud to Acknowledge your Patronage.—if it would not be intruding To much on your Time It would be A Grait addition [to] my happiness To Receive A Line From your Honnor.— I am Sir With Constant Atchment your most Sincere Freind & Servt. John Haskell RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); damaged; addressed: “To his Exelency Thomas Jefferson Esqr. President of the United States Washington City”; endorsed by TJ as received 8 Nov. and “to be a Collector” and so recorded in SJL.
John Haskell may have been the Maine resident of that name who was declared a bankrupt in 1803 and subsequently advertised as a merchant (Portland Eastern Argus, 6 Jan. 1804, 18 Oct. 1805). 1
That is, judges.
From Elizabeth C. Leiper Sir Philada. October 29th. 1804 Will it be doom’d too presumtous, my addressing a few lines to you—not in expectation of receiving an answer to the present—but from a deep sense of gratitude for the favor already confer’d—I return you thanks then in the name of a large Family and Freinds united— lately I saw the scene of woe—the Head as it were seperated—and every bond of mutual affection—and reliance broken up and torn a sunder—but under the divine controul—your goodness has caus’d a releif—the Flock is again gather’d under a sheepfold—they feel reviv’d—a Pasture is open’d to there veiw—and hope brightens there prospects—that after so severe a Storm—they are to find a Shelter— and in what does a good man resemble his Maker—but in those Acts of benificence and Mercy—he who delighteth in doing good—and 622
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whose tender mercies—are over all his works—you will please pardon the liberty I have taken with you—and make allowance for the interest I have felt in my freinds concerns—when I tell you I am the Mother of nine Children—and although it has pleas’d a kind providence to place in such a situation—That we are independent—yet suffering Merit shall ever find in our bosoms the freindly consolations—and aid we may have it in our power to share— Hoping that the choice of Calender Irvine—will insure to the United States—an excellent Officer—and to your feelings—that pleasure of releiving a worthy Family—may the Star shine brighter round your head—and the day Star arise in your heart—filling you with every divine grace—and consolation—and when your days here are ended—may crowns of immortal glory await you for ever more— with the Highest considerations of respect. yours— Elizabeth C: Leiper RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); addressed: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 2 Nov. and “Irvine Callender” and so recorded in SJL. Elizabeth C. Leiper (1762-1829), the daughter of Philadelphia revolutionary George Gray, married Thomas Leiper in 1778, and over the course of her life bore 15 children. The year before her death, Elizabeth Leiper witnessed the construction of the Leiper Canal, a waterway connecting the family’s quarry to the Delaware River. She had previously written to TJ on 31 July, in a letter not found, on the
subject of William Irvine’s successor as the superintendent of military stores (biographical information in Thomas Leiper and family business records, PPL; Genealogies of Pennsylvania Families: From the Pennsylvania Genealogical Magazine, 3 vols. [Baltimore, 1982], 3:831; Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser, 21 Aug. 1828; Philadelphia Inquirer, 14 Aug. 1829; Samuel Hazard, ed., The Register of Pennsylvania. Devoted to the Preservation of Facts and Documents, and Every Other Kind of Useful Information Respecting the State of Pennsylvania, 16 vols. [Philadelphia, 1828-1836], 4:254; TJ to Dearborn, 8 Aug.; Appendix iv).
From John Page Sir, Richmond October 29th. 1804 Being requested by the General Assembly to continue a correspondence which was begun with you by my predecessor, Governor Monroe, upon the subject of certain of their resolutions of the 31st. of December 1800, and of the 16th. of January, 1802, and which was renewed by me in a letter of the 16th. of November last, I have to request that you will be pleased to inform me whether you have received any further information respecting the Sierra Leone Company’s disposition to treat for a permission to make use of their lands as an asylum for the persons described in those resolutions. 623
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And, as the resolution which has made it my duty to trouble you on this interesting subject appears to me to refer principally to your valuable suggestions respecting Louisiana (as they were the subject of the extract of your letter which was communicated to the Assembly and occasioned this resolution) I must also request that you will be pleased to inform me whether the Legislature of the Union will consent to such a disposition of any part of that Country, as appears to be the wish of the Legislature of Virginia. Should you still think that Louisiana may afford the desired asylum for the free Negroes and Mulattoes and such as may be hereafter emancipated, you will be so good as to state that wish to Congress confidentially: but should you judge it prudent to delay the further prosecution of this delicate business ’til the practicability of carrying into effect the views of the Legislature of this State with respect to the removal of at least 19000 free negroes and mulattoes (the number according to the last Census) out of it and into a distant Country, has been maturely considered, you will only be so good as to communicate to me your further ideas at your leisure on this interesting subject. I sincerely wish to procure the asylum contemplated, and I believe that if a fund could be raised and applied annually to the purchase, removal and education of young slaves, as soon as of a sufficient age for those purposes, in a few years we might be disembarrassed of those many disagreeable Circumstances which gave rise to our present enquiry. And might not such a fund be raised by the contributions of the benevolent, (I would suppose throughout America and Europe) aided by a moderate tax on Slaves? I think that a better regulation of our police, and a proper Vigilance would be sufficient for present purposes, as to the free Negroes and Mulattoes; and that it would be dangerous to attempt a removal of any, but such as may be emancipated hereafter. But I should wish to send them to Sierra Leone, or to St. Domingo, should that Island be acknowledged by France free and Independant, an event however at present not to be expected; and that none but the uncorrupted youth who should be educated and trained up in principles and habits which might render them worthy of the freedom conferred on them, should be sent into Louisiana. I have thrown out these hints for your Consideration and Correction, and have delayed writing on this perplexing subject till I had lost all chance of being able to discuss it fully in a free conversation, which I had flattered myself I could have enjoyed with you. I am Sir, with sentiments of high respect & esteem, your obedient Servant John Page 624
30 OCTOBER 1804 RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 7 Nov. and so recorded in SJL with notation “negroes.” Enclosure: Resolution of the Virginia General Assembly, 3 Feb., “that the Governor be requested to continue a Correspondence with the President of the United States upon the subject contemplated by the said Extract, and from time to time as the Governor may deem it expedient, to lay before the General Assembly, the result of such Correspondence” (Tr in DLC: TJ Papers, 138:23858; in the hand of and signed by James Pleasants, Jr., clerk of the House
of Delegates, also signed by Theo. Hansford, clerk of the Senate). For the inquiry about sierra leone, see Vol. 38:54-7, 473-6. For the earlier resolutions, see Vol. 34:345-7 and Vol. 36:576-7. your letter: of 23 Dec. 1803, in which TJ suggested that Louisiana and Saint-Domingue might provide the Virginia legislature with “the recourse which their resolution contemplates” (Vol. 42: 164-5).
From Amos Stoddard Sir, St. Louis 29th. Octr. 1804.— Captain Lewis, before he left this, engaged a trader on the River Demoine to procure vocabularies of the Ayovais and Sioux languages. The trader has obtained that of the former, which I do myself the honor to enclose: That of the latter will be furnished sometime next spring, when it will be transmitted to you agreeably to the request of Capt. Lewis. I am, Sir, with sentiments of high respect, Your very huml. Servt. Amos Stoddard, Capt corps of artillerists. RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 29 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found. trader Lewis Crawford was the conduit for Meriwether Lewis’s communications to the Iowas (ayovais) and sioux residing along the Des Moines River
(Moulton, Journals of the Lewis & Clark Expedition, 2:192n; Jackson, Lewis and Clark, 1:190, 191n, 196; Stoddard to TJ, 24 Mch. 1805). The missing enclosure was presumably among TJ’s collected vocabularies that were stolen and destroyed in 1809 (Vol. 20:451-2; Vol. 30:81-2n; Vol. 31:434n; rs, 1:555-7).
From Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Museum Octr. 30th. 1804. By the Mail Stage I have sent you two Polygraphs in one Box. The ease with which writing may be done with either of them, I hope will determine you to send me your Polygraph by the same conveyance, 625
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in order that I may put new Machinery to it, which may be done in a few days and returned to you. I have made some improvements in the manufacture of the Machinery to render it more durable and less subject to be affected by wet or dry air than Mr. Hawkins had done in the Polygraph he sent me, other wise the moovements are the same. You will perhaps Object to the want of the Screws to regulate the Pens, but in the machines sent I made use of Brass-tubes which are too thin to put such Screws. Making that part of the Machinery which is to be supported by spiral Springs as light as possible is of some importance, and if the Machine is sufficiently complete without them, some expence of the Workmanship is saved. Yet my dear Sir I do not mean to intrude my opinion on what you may use, as I wish to follow your directions implicitly and shall not think it any trouble to do whatever you may wish to be done. The Secretary of State may choose one of these sent, or should he wish one in a different form I shall be happy to serve him. Mr. Beckley desired me to supply him with a Polygraph—you will oblige me by showing him these, and perhaps that which Mr. Maddison leaves, may meet his choise. In future this manufactory will be carried on with more spirit, as I have now made tools of curious and useful construction, that gives truth as well as expidition to every part of the work. The price of each Polygraph is 50 Dollars, I wish I could afford them cheaper, but I prefer making every part in the mode that cannot fail recommend them on tryal, and I am not afraid to have a number made ready for those who may hereafter desire to purchase. my delay of answering your last letter, was because I have prefered doing what you have requested, rather than promising to perform. except my salutations and believe me your friend C W Peale RC (DLC); at foot of text: “His Excellency Thos. Jefferson Esqr.”; endorsed by TJ as received 1 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. PoC (Lb in PPAmP: Peale-Sellers Papers).
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From Robert Simons Dear Sir/ South Carolina October 30th 1804 Since my late letter to you I have met with misfortunes that have brought me verry low in point of property. Could you with Justice to our Country Nominate me as Collector to the port of New Orleans I trust you would be satisfied in your Choice and the Country receive no Injury from the Appointment. There is one thing in My favor that of being accustomed to a Southern Climate but should you find an application that would be of Greater advantage to my Country; by no means embarrass yourself with my Application I am Dear Sir with Sentiments of Sincere Esteem Your Most Obt Hble Servt Robt. Simons RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 22 Nov. and “to be Collectr. N.O.” and so recorded in SJL.
my late letter: Simons to TJ, 5 Dec. 1803.
From Nicolai Henrich Weinwich Your Excellency! Copenhagen Octb. 30th. 1804— I am convinced that the 150 pieces of true Roman coins in bronze of different sizes, from the reign of Emperor Augustus’ until that of Theodosius’, during a space of time of 400 Years, which I hereby take the liberty of sending Your Excellency, not only will be thought worthy of Your acceptance but perhaps even prove wellcome to Your Excellency. As I believe that this collection, though small, is the first in scientific order, that ever was brought from Europe to America, I flatter myself that the value of it will be enhanced thereby. Every Historian is sensible of the value of ancient coins, as they are so necessary to the further illustration of History in general; there ought of course to be a collection of them at every Academy, where the young student may be shewn and rendered attentive to, every thing regarding the sciences and arts. I therefore take the liberty of transmitting the following to Your Excellency to be made use of as You may think most proper and advantageous to the Litterati of the happy united States of North America. As to me, I shall feel myself happy in the thought of having contributed as far as was in my power to the promotion of solid knowledge in a distant part of the world. 627
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I beg leave to assure Your Excellency of the very high esteem and due sense of Your merits; with which I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant Nicolai Henrich Weinwich RC (CSmH); at foot of text: “His Excellency Sir Thomas Jefferson President of the United States in North America”; below signature: “Secretary & member of the Royal Society of Heraldry & Genealogy in Denmark, Fellow of the Royal society of sciences in Drontheim, corresponding member of the Northern society for promoting sciences and arts in London. Copenhagen Amalia Street No. 71. Litt K1.” Enclosed in Joachim F. Eckard to TJ, 12 Apr. 1805. Recorded in SJL as received 18 Apr.
Nicolai, or Niels, Henrich Weinwich (1755-1829) was born in Norway. Having contributed to a Danish atlas, he moved to Copenhagen and became secretary of the genealogical and heraldry society based there. He worked as a librarian and published works on Scandinavian artists (Sv. Cedergreen Bech, ed., Dansk Biografisk Leksikon, 16 vols. [Copenhagen, 1979-84], 15:373).
From Cornelius C. Blachly Respected friend;— 31st. of the 10 mo. 1804 With diffidence I address this letter to thee, with a scheme for an american alphabet. The apology for my presumption, is my being perswaded that no scheme for an alphabet of this nature would be successful without the recommendations of some of the most illustrious literary characters in America.—besides I had no opportunity of showing thee the present scheme but by my neighbor Adam Boyd one of our representatives in congress. I am sorry to trouble thee during the session of congress,—and shall be very sorry, if I have presum’d too far on thy benevolence, delicacy, or condescention. With sentiments to thee of very great respect and esteem;—I am thy friend— Cornelius C. Blachly. County of Bergen—New Jersey. P.S. My friend Adam Boyd will obligingly call on thee for the return of the manuscript when thou art done with it. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 17 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found, but see below. Cornelius C. Blachly (ca. 1773-1831) was a Quaker physician, born in New Jersey and educated at Columbia College. His later years were devoted to social reform based on “Christian ethics, republican politics, and the labor theory of value.” He wrote several treatises on the
subject and was a founding member of the New York Society for Promoting Communities, which sought to erect commonwealth societies based “wholly on the social, impartial, and unselfish principle.” Blachly shared his utopian vision with TJ in 1822, at which time he signed his name “Blatchly,” a variant spelling he had adopted by at least 1815 (Sean Wilentz, Chants Democratic: New York City and the Rise of the American Working Class,
628
31 OCTOBER 1804 1788-1850 [New York, 1984], 158-61; New-York Spectator, 13 Dec. 1831; Cornelius C. Blatchly to James Madison, 6 May 1815, in DLC: Madison Papers; Blatchly to TJ, 6 Oct. 1822). The scheme that Blachly sent to TJ may have been a precursor to his “new
system of orthography,” published in approximately 1814 (Michael H. Barton, Something New, Comprising a New and Perfect Alphabet Containing 40 Distinct Characters, Calculated to Illustrate All the Various Sounds of the Human Voice [Harvard, Mass., 1833], 31).
From Albert Gallatin Sir Treasury Department 31 Octer. 1804 I have the honour to inform you that the light house on Clark’s point near New Bedford Massts. is completed, and beg leave to submit the propriety of appointing for keeper Joseph Howland, the person who built it, and lives within a few rods from it. He is recommended by the collector; and there is no other applicant. I have the honor to be with great respect Sir Your most obedient Servt. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 31 Oct. and so recorded in SJL
with notation “Howld. Keepr. L.H.”; also endorsed by TJ: “Howland Joseph to be Keepr L.H. Clarke’s Pt. near New Bedfd.”
Notes on Tensions with Spain and Great Britain [October 1804]
If S. strengthens shall we accept the insurrn of Bat. R. What measures on police of harbors power to Exve to forbid entrance of armed vessels altogether sub modo modificns to lay under our guns. to give up rudder to give security on disobedience. stop entry in that port in all ports cut off intercourse. gun boats moving artillery. shall they give us a force of Volunteers in case Spain is refractory 629
31 OCTOBER 1804 MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 234:41897); undated, but see notes below; entirely in TJ’s hand; follows, on same sheet, Notes on Appointments, [on or before 5 Oct.]. if s. strengthens: see Madison to TJ, 28 Aug., and TJ to Dearborn, 6 Sep. insurrn: a reference to the Kempers’ actions at Baton Rouge on 7 Aug. (see William C. C. Claiborne to TJ, 27 Oct.). Early accounts of the affair appeared in several eastern newspapers by midSeptember, including Relfs Philadelphia Gazette on 5 Sep., the New York Daily Advertiser on 7 Sep., and the National Intelligencer on 12 Sep. Claiborne sent his initial report on the affair to Madison
on 30 Aug., enclosing copies of his recent correspondence with the Marqués de Casa Calvo and others “relative to the insurrection at Baton Rouge.” The State Department received the dispatch on 8 Oct. (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:657-8). police of harbors: see Bill for Preservation of Peace in Harbors and Waters, at 22 Oct. sub modo: that is, under a qualification or restriction. moving artillery: see Horatio Gates to TJ, 19 Oct. force of volunteers: see Annual Message to Congress, at 8 Nov., Documents i and v.
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, Nw. Orleans November 1st. 1804 I have forwarded you by the Ship Fame bound to Baltimore, a small Box containing a few Fossils &c. collected by a Mr. “Richard King on his excursion to the Hot Springs, on the Ouachita River,” and of which I solicit your acceptance.— Mr. King in his Letter to me, speaking of the Hot Springs— observes—“These Springs form the most extraordinary Phenomenon in the World. The water is hot almost to boiling, & yet delicious to the Taste. I drank plentifully of it, and bathed in its vapour which rises in profusion, and derived great benefit to my health, as did several other persons whom I saw there; afflicted with various Complaints.” Mr. King is still exploring the Ouachita Country, and has promised me a Map of that Region and a further Collection of Cureosities;— when they are received, I shall take pleasure in presenting them to you. Mr. King in speaking of the Poison Spring remarks, “In case of proof being made of the Water of the Poison Spring, which I send you, care ought to be taken, lest it should do mischief. I give this caution at the request of those, who pretend to know the quality of the water”.— A Memorandum of the Fossils &c. (furnished by Mr. King) is enclosed, together with the necessary explanations.— I pray you to receive the best wishes of—Dear Sir, Your faithful friend William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the U.S.”; endorsed
by TJ as received 11 Dec. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found.
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31 OCTOBER 1804 MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 234:41897); undated, but see notes below; entirely in TJ’s hand; follows, on same sheet, Notes on Appointments, [on or before 5 Oct.]. if s. strengthens: see Madison to TJ, 28 Aug., and TJ to Dearborn, 6 Sep. insurrn: a reference to the Kempers’ actions at Baton Rouge on 7 Aug. (see William C. C. Claiborne to TJ, 27 Oct.). Early accounts of the affair appeared in several eastern newspapers by midSeptember, including Relfs Philadelphia Gazette on 5 Sep., the New York Daily Advertiser on 7 Sep., and the National Intelligencer on 12 Sep. Claiborne sent his initial report on the affair to Madison
on 30 Aug., enclosing copies of his recent correspondence with the Marqués de Casa Calvo and others “relative to the insurrection at Baton Rouge.” The State Department received the dispatch on 8 Oct. (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:657-8). police of harbors: see Bill for Preservation of Peace in Harbors and Waters, at 22 Oct. sub modo: that is, under a qualification or restriction. moving artillery: see Horatio Gates to TJ, 19 Oct. force of volunteers: see Annual Message to Congress, at 8 Nov., Documents i and v.
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, Nw. Orleans November 1st. 1804 I have forwarded you by the Ship Fame bound to Baltimore, a small Box containing a few Fossils &c. collected by a Mr. “Richard King on his excursion to the Hot Springs, on the Ouachita River,” and of which I solicit your acceptance.— Mr. King in his Letter to me, speaking of the Hot Springs— observes—“These Springs form the most extraordinary Phenomenon in the World. The water is hot almost to boiling, & yet delicious to the Taste. I drank plentifully of it, and bathed in its vapour which rises in profusion, and derived great benefit to my health, as did several other persons whom I saw there; afflicted with various Complaints.” Mr. King is still exploring the Ouachita Country, and has promised me a Map of that Region and a further Collection of Cureosities;— when they are received, I shall take pleasure in presenting them to you. Mr. King in speaking of the Poison Spring remarks, “In case of proof being made of the Water of the Poison Spring, which I send you, care ought to be taken, lest it should do mischief. I give this caution at the request of those, who pretend to know the quality of the water”.— A Memorandum of the Fossils &c. (furnished by Mr. King) is enclosed, together with the necessary explanations.— I pray you to receive the best wishes of—Dear Sir, Your faithful friend William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the U.S.”; endorsed
by TJ as received 11 Dec. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found.
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1 NOVEMBER 1804 In May 1804, Claiborne issued a license to richard king to trade with Indians at Ouachita Post and wished that a trip to the Ouachita springs would restore King’s
health. Claiborne also requested that King communicate information on the country to him (Rowland, Claiborne Letter Books, 2:128-9).
To Henry Dearborn Dear Sir Nov. 1. 04. I have been able to give the inclosed so little time that the suggestions of alteration which I make are merely for your consideration. in order to keep the subject clear I would propose to transpose the paragraphs so as to touch 1st. on their Civil powers generally. 2d. intrusions on land. 3. the military. 4. the militia. for this purpose I suggest something like the following. Section 1. to retain it’s place & form. then instead of sections 2d. & 7th. which relate to civil powers, substitute ‘By this you will percieve that the laws heretofore in force in that country are continued until altered by the new legislature. these it is believed gave considerable civil as well as military powers to the Commandants of districts which powers will of course devolve on you until altered by the legislature. wherever a case arises to which the civil authority is competent, let your interference be in your civil character, using the aids & forms of the civil authority, and never those of the military but in cases not otherwise to be effected: and wherever it is used, let it be marked in it’s proceedings by the utmost tenderness to the civil rights of individuals, & never aggravating by insult, harshness, or passion, the acts of force which the case requires to be used. in these matters the present act of Congress, the existing laws of Louisiana, & the ordinances of the Governor & judges will be your guide & warrant. here insert §. 3. to wit, ‘An important part of your duty will relate &c. to the words ‘has not been acquired.’ then strike out §. 6. and instead of it say ‘the settlements which are lawful are so exactly defined by the 14th. section of the inclosed act of Congress that no other direction is necessary from me than to exert your utmost vigilance in detecting unauthorised settlements the moment they are made or discovered, dealing with the persons as the law requires, & destroying any fixed improvements they may have made on the land. besides the necessity of constant enquiries as to this object, and having correspondents in all parts charged to give you necessary information, you may perhaps find it expedient at times to order patroles into those parts where intrusions are most to be suspected.1 631
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here insert §. 4. ‘your own good judgment &c to ‘troops as the militia.’ then add a paragraph as to the organisation & discipline of the militia, recommending great attention to it (which I think is wanting in the draught, and close it with §. 5. ‘I cannot at present &c to ‘enable you to procure.’ I repeat that this hasty view has been made under constant interruption, and therefore is entirely submitted to your revisal. accept affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of first page: “Secretary at War.” Notation in SJL: “instrns to Commandts. Louisa.” Enclosure not found, but see below.
uel Hammond, Return Jonathan Meigs, Jr., Richard Kennon, and Seth Hunt, which he sent on 2 Nov. (DNA: RG 107, LSMA; Terr. Papers, 13:54-5).
Dearborn incorporated TJ’s suggestions almost verbatim into his instructions to Louisiana District commandants Sam-
1 Preceding word replaced with “expected” in Dearborn’s instructions to the commandants.
To Albert Gallatin Nov. 1. 04.
Joseph Howland is approved as Keeper of the Light House at Clarke’s point near New Bedford Mas. Th: Jefferson RC (DNA: RG 26, Records of the United States Coast Guard, Records of the Lighthouse Service, Miscellaneous Unbound Correspondence, 1801-1808 [1952]); addressed: “The Secretary of
the Treasury”; endorsed by a clerk and by Gallatin. is approved: see Gallatin to TJ, 31 Oct.
From Albert Gallatin Dear Sir [1 Nov. 1804] In order to complete the estimates for 1805, it is necessary to know the number and rank of commanding officers in the District of Louisiana. I will thank you to enclose me such list; the calculation of the emoluments I can make out myself. The appropriation necessary for Louisiana will be stated as followeth Territory of Orleans Governor Secretary Three judges Legislative council 13 members 120 days @ 4 drs. 632
5,000 2,000 6,000 6,240
3 NOVEMBER 1804
Contingent expenses of Secretary’s office 1000 Do. of legislative council 1000
⎬ ⎭
⎫
2,000
21,240 Territory of Indiana— In the district of Louisiana Pay & emoluments of commanding officers of districts Colonel — — — Majors — — — Captains — — — The 2300 dollars for district judge, attorney and marshal will be placed with the other expences of district courts— With great respect Your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25378); undated; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 1 Nov. and “Louisa. establmt.” and so recorded in SJL. On 19 Nov., Speaker Nathaniel Macon presented to the House of Representatives Gallatin’s estimates for 1805, which were then referred to the Commit-
tee of Ways and Means. Although Gallatin did not include a list of officers in the final report, he calculated their combined salary at $5,971.77 (Annals, 14:691; Letter from the Secretary of the Treasury, Transmitting a Report and Estimates of the Appropriations Which Appear to Be Necessary for the Service of the Year 1805 [Washington, D.C., 1804], 36-8, 62).
From Enoch Hazard Sir Newport Nov: 3d 1804 As one of the representatives from this town in the General Assembly of this State, I take the liberty to address you on the subject of Mr Ellery, our present Senator, I was not at the last Session of the General Assembly owing to professional avocations, and I regret extremely that I was not, that at least, I might have given the Testimony of my vote, against the Injustice that has been done him. In my opinion Mr Ellery had every title a man could have to the support of every republican in the Assembly. I disapprove of the measures taken & objections made to his re’election; & join in the remonstrance of many of the representatives of the State in recommending him to the office of Collector in this District. I am respectfully Your Friend Enoch Hazard RC (DLC); at head of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 12 Dec. and
“Ellery Christ. to be Collectr. Newport” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosed in Christopher Ellery to TJ, 12 Dec.
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3 NOVEMBER 1804 Physician and state legislator Enoch Hazard (1773-1844) of Newport, a graduate of Rhode Island College, had been appointed director and purveyor general, as well as surgeon and physician general, of the state militia in 1802. He received an appointment as surgeon’s mate in the U.S. army in 1806 (Richard M. Bayles, History of Newport County, Rhode Island [New York, 1888], 90-1; Haverhill, Mass., Guardian of Freedom, 18 Sep. 1794; Newport Mercury, 18 May 1802, 11 May 1844;
jep, 2:25; Christopher Ellery to TJ, 12 Dec.). subject of mr ellery: in its election for U.S. senators held on 3 Nov., the Rhode Island General Assembly chose James Fenner to succeed Ellery, whose term would expire in March 1805. The legislators also chose Benjamin Howland to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Samuel J. Potter (Providence Gazette, 10 Nov.; Ellery to TJ, 19 Nov.; David Leonard Barnes to TJ, 27 Nov.).
From William Herries Sir St. Louis, Lousiana, 3d. Novr. 1804 I hope you will forgive the liberty I take in seizing this opportunity to beg you will accept my thanks & sincere assurances of gratitude for the very flattering reception with which you honour’d me in July last.—I was happy to perseive, at that time, that my intention to take a general view of some parts of the United States least known in Europe, previous to settling myself with my family in New Orleans, for the remainder of my life, seem’d to meet with your approbation—I was sensible how imperfect the accounts must be of new Countries so very extensive, & I am highly pleased with the long ride I have been taking in them. I no sooner arrived in Pittsburgh, than I found my curiosity would not be much gratified, with respect to the interior Country, if I embark’d on the Ohio, and I resolved to prosecute my Journey on Horseback—I crossed that fine River three times in the course of my tour, & saw, with admiration, so many large Ships building at so great a distance from the Sea.—I was most agreeably surprised to find such very rich lands & a soil I had, till then, no clear idea of, in the State of Ohio & in Kentucky, in which last & indeed in both, much greater progress is made than I could possibly have supposed for so short a time.— I was in general favour’d with good weather, & particularly so to traverse the Wilderness by Vincennes to Kaskaskia, so that sleeping five nights in the open air proved by no means disagreeable to me, while my fancy was pleased with the hopes that my children may see those amazing Prairies in a state of cultivation capable of furnishing the most important articles to all the World by the mouths of the Mississippi. 634
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I had not imagined that the lands I had seen could be equalled any where else, but in this I was mistaken, for the Banks of the Mississippi & the Missouri, in as much as I have seen of both thus far, seem to me to possess superior advantages,—extensive tracts of soil equally good, & in some places perhaps even better, than what I had met with, situated so near those noble Rivers, where ships of any burthen may be built, where the Country around offers the finest timber & is capable of producing every thing requisite.—where even now, & without further cultivation, the Prairies offer the means of feeding immense herds of Cattle, requiring only a little more industry & population to supply all the shipping of the world with Salted Provisions, nature having provided the salt in the neighbourhood—& now, under the Government of the United States, I may be allow’d to hope with confidence that the time is not distant when Cargoes of wheat—of flour—of Hemp, of Cordage & a variety of other useful productions will be moving down the River, in Vessels fit to carry them to any distant Port or Country, in lieu of the few Boats thus far sent down with Peltry, while even the greatest part & the best of this appears to have been sold to Canada, every thing being thus far, cramp’d by exclusive privileges.— When I add to all those considerations the variety of Minerals, discover’d & appearing daily, I cannot but think nature destined this part of the Country, with its temperate healthy climate, to be one of the most favour’d residences for civilised man. I find there is abundance of Pit Coal both on the Missouri & Mississippi, conveniently situated for shipping. Iron ore is equally plenty, and independent of the Lead works now in activity, a specimen has been given me of ore which seems very rich, found much higher up this River where I am told it is to be had in any quantity, with other ores of which I am promised specimens hereafter;—there is also on the Missouri, a Gypsum, which appears to me to be equal to the Plaster of Montmartre, with which I have compared it, & a variety of Clays which I have not seen.—all these things will add to the great national Store of unexplored riches for ages to come. I have now to beg your pardon for taking up so much of your time, & to mention that Mr. Chouteau the Elder by whom I take the liberty of sending this Letter, is not only one of the best informed men in this Country, but enjoys the esteem & respect of all the inhabitants.—He is capable of giving you every sort of information in regard to this very interesting part of America—He is about to set out for the seat of Government, & I am now on my departure for New Orleans where I hope to meet my family from Europe. 635
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I have the honour to be with the most sincere respect Sir Your most obt. hble. Sert. Wm. Herries. RC (DLC); at foot of first page: “Thomas Jefferson Esqe. President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 4 Jan. 1805 and so recorded in SJL. William Herries (1748-1811), born in Scotland, was the younger brother of Sir Robert Herries, founder of the London Exchange Banking Company (later Lloyds). He was a banker in Ostend, Brussels, and Paris before emigrating to America. In 1805, he settled in the Baton Rouge region of West Florida. With the financial backing of brother-in-law Fulwar Skipwith, Herries bought substantial property north of the city in the hopes of forming a new town, “Montesano.” He was syndic of his district, a confidant of the Spanish deputy governor, and a translator during the negotiations that preceded the 1810 West Florida revolution against Spain. After Herries’s death, his wife established a popular hotel in New Orleans (W. Bruce Bannerman, ed., Miscellanea Genealogica et Heraldica, 4th ser., 5 vols. [London, 1906-12], 4:301, 380, 382; 5:40;
Walter Prichard, “Selecting a Governor for the Territory of Orleans,” Louisiana Historical Quarterly, 31 [1948], 304-5; John S. Kendall, “Documents Concerning the West Florida Revolution, 1810, III, Conclusion,” same, 17 [1934], 477; James W. Milgram and Carol S. Milgram, “A Trip from Washington to New Orleans by William Herries in 1804,” Western Express: Research Journal of Early Western Mails, 61 [2011], 19, 37; Orleans Gazette and Commercial Advertiser, 19 July 1806). Herries reiterated his pleasure in the very flattering reception he received from TJ in a letter to Madison, 27 Sep., in which he recommended Skipwith to fill the “unexpected Vacancy” left by the death of Hore Browse Trist and offered to serve as substitute until Skipwith could reach New Orleans from France (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Skipwith Fulwar to be Collectr. N. Orleans). Herries had a letter of introduction to Madison from James Monroe; see Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 6:585-6.
To Benjamin H. Latrobe Dear Sir Washington Nov. 3. 04. In my letter of Oct. 5. I asked the favor of you to have me furnished with 100 sheets of rolled iron 16. I. wide and 11. f. 8. I. long, and pressed the welding the ends of the sheets together in the manner of a model of paper therein inclosed as greatly preferable to tucking them in the ordinary way, a process which I suppose known at all the works, as I have heretofore recieved such from the iron-dealers of Philadelphia. however if they cannot be obtained in that way, I must be content to recieve them tucked so as that 2. sheets shall make the 11. f. 8. I. I informed you when here that I should ask the favor of you to select for me in Philadelphia 3. of the handsomest stoves, of the kind called Open stoves, or Rittenhouse stoves, which are in fact nothing more than the Franklin stove, leaving out the double back and flues formed in that for supplying warm air. the Rittenhouse stove is the 636
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one commonly used in Philadelphia, and was the model & origin of the Rumford fireplace, which is a Rittenhouse stove in brick instead of iron. the only direction I have to give is that those selected for me be 2. f. 6. I. wide in the back, inside measure, this suiting the size of my rooms. the taste is left to yourself. when you shall have fixed on them, messrs Jones & Howell, my correspondents in the iron-way in Philadelphia, will on your application be so good as to procure & forward them to Richmond, and debit me with them in their account. as I am not in a hurry for these, the choice of them may await your first visit to Philadelphia on other business. Accept my friendly salutations & assurances of respect. Th: Jefferson PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “B. H. Latrobe. esq.”; endorsed by TJ.
From John Page Sir, Richmond November 3d. 1804. In compliance with the advice of council contained in the inclosed extract from their journals I have to recommend mr. Samuel Brooks to the attention and remuneration of the Federal Government, for his meritorious services rendered to the United States, by his labourious and hazardous enterprize in detecting and bringing to conviction Thomas Logwood, actually and successfully, to an alarming extent, engaged in counterfeiting and circulating the Bank notes of the United States, as also their Eagles, and the double Guineas of France; and for his circumstantial information, by which not only more than twenty thousand Dollars of the said Counterfieted Notes and a number of the said Eagles and double guineas were taken from Logwood, but the names of his accomplices and places of residence of several of those most dangerously active amongst them have been correctly ascertained, by means of which, til within a few days, hopes had been entertained of apprehending their Engraver, and his most useful and active accomplices in the state of North Carolina. How these hopes were frustrated the letter from Mr. Moore a copy of which is herein also inclosed will discover. I am Sir with high respect and Esteem your obedt. Servant John Page RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, closing and signature by Page; endorsed by TJ as received 7 Nov. and “Brookes” and so recorded in SJL. FC (Vi: Executive Letterbook). Enclosures: (1) Extract from
journal of Virginia Council of State, 16 June, advising that Samuel Brooks receive $500 “for the labour expence, and danger” he incurred in disrupting the counterfeiting scheme, and requesting that
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3 NOVEMBER 1804 Page recommend Brooks to the president for the “attention & Remuneration of the Federal Government” (Tr in DLC: TJ Papers, 141:24468). (2) Copy of Thomas Moore to Page, Columbia, S.C., 9 Oct., reporting on efforts against the counterfeiters implicated by Logwood; Moore states that instead of taking “active steps” to use the papers that Page sent as a means to imprison the counterfeiters, North Carolina governor James Turner sent them to other parties; before Moore obtained them, the papers fell into the hands of a suspect in the counterfeiting network, who carried off some of the copies; Moore
notes that the papers offered insufficient evidence to arrest anyone in North Carolina, as there were no affidavits; since the nature of the papers became clear to the counterfeiters, they have shown no fear of authorities; some have used fake bank bills to procure slaves and other property from Virginia; Moore mentions a plan to pursue the “next gang of them” into Virginia and seize them upon the first use of counterfeit bills (RC in Vi: Executive Papers). For samuel brooks, see Page to TJ, 12 Apr.
From John Page Sir Richmond November 3d. 1804. In compliance with the inclosed advice of the Council I have to request that the Sums paid by this State, Vouchers for which are also inclosed, on Account of the Apprehension and conviction of Thomas Logwood, charged with counterfeiting various Bank notes of the United States, may be refunded to the State. I am with high respect & esteem Sir, your obedt. Servant John Page RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Page; endorsed by TJ as received 7 Nov. and so recorded in SJL with notation “reimbursemt bank forgers”; also endorsed by TJ: “claims for exp. of Logwood’s conviction.” FC (Vi: Executive Letterbook). Enclosure: extract, dated 20 Oct., from the journal of the Executive Council of Virginia, directing the state au-
ditor to account for all expenses requested by the executive for the apprehension and conviction of Thomas Logwood; the governor is to transmit the account to the executive of the United States and request reimbursement from the federal government (Tr in DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25029). Other enclosures not found.
From John Page Sir, In Council November 3d. 1804. In consequence of the information given in a letter from Mr. Moore of which an extract was inclosed to you in my letter respecting Samuel Brooks of this date, I have been advised by the Council to trouble you again on the subject of the Accomplices of Logwood in North Carolina. You will find sir, by that Extract that it is supposed not improbable that if the inclosed affidavit were sent on by me, it might meet with 638
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the fate of the papers mentioned by Moore. David Greenlaw has lately escaped conviction of murder, and during his long imprisonment he formed a resolution if acquitted to abandon his former courses and companions, and to endeavour to make all the amends in his power for his past crimes, and therefore come forward and Voluntarily gave in the information on Oath which by the advice of Council is now transmitted to you, and has promised to remain at his father’s in Northumberland County, until the 3d. of December next and to be ready to assist in bringing to justice the persons named in his affidavit. I am Sir with great respect & esteem, Your obedient Servant. John Page RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Page; endorsed by TJ as received 8 Nov. and “coiners of money, counterfietrs. of bank bills” and so recorded in SJL. FC (Vi: Executive Letterbook). Enclosure not found, but see below. On this day, the council of State advised Page to forward duplicates of the affidavit of david greenlaw to the governors of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Kentucky, and New York, and to the president, who it was hoped would take “such steps thereon as he may deem proper for bringing the Said Counterfeiters to justice” (Vi: Journals of the Council of State). Greenlaw was arrested in June for the brutal murder of a French merchant in Norfolk. In a letter of 19 Oct. to Page, Thomas Newton enclosed Greenlaw’s ac-
count (not found), which implicated others in the murder and related details of the counterfeiting network active in Virginia, North Carolina, and elsewhere. Newton vouched for the “repentant” Greenlaw and advised that “much circumspection will be required in detecting the Counterfeiters in N Carolina.” They were “desperate & numerous” and “in the habit of murdering those they suspect of betraying them.” If the murderers could be captured and “a public example made,” Newton continued, “it might stop a while the excessive gaming, which is the Cause of the whole.” He also advised Page to bring Greenlaw to Richmond and offer him a reward for his testimony against the counterfeiters (Vi: Executive Papers; Relfs Philadelphia Gazette, 18 June; Richmond Enquirer, 27 June).
From William C. C. Claiborne Dear Sir, New-Orleans November 4th. 1804 Governor Folch is now in this City, and was received by me with respectful Attention. On this morning accompanied by my Militia Officers, I waited upon the Marquis of Casa Calvo; visited with him the Cathedral Church, and assisted at high Mass.—This day is the feast of St. Carlos, and with a view of testifying my respect for his Catholic Majesty so long as my Country shall be in Peace with him, I have on this occasion treated his Officers here, with singular marks of respect.—I dine with the Marquis to Day, and on Tuesday next, I shall in return, give to the Marquis and to Governor Folch as splendid a 639
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Dinner as my resources will permit. My Letters to the Secretary of State will acquaint you of my prospects for the formation of a Council, and also of the unpleasant State of things at Nachitoches. I think it would be advisable to hold a Conference with the Caddo Indians, and such other Tribes west of the Missisippi as could conveniently be assembled at Nachitoches; It is probable that the happiest results might attend such a Conference. If you should direct this Measure, (and should honor me with the Mission,) I would repair with pleasure to Nachitoches, & use every effort in my power to acquire & perpetuate the friendship of these Indians for the U. States. I believe the Fever has entirely abated in this City, and Industry & Commerce seem to have revived.— I still sincerely hope for an honorable & advantageous adjustment of our Differences with Spain; But whatever may be the result, I doubt not but our Government will find her Citizens united, & to them may safely be confided the support of our Country’s Claims. I pray God to preserve you in health & happiness! I have the honor to be Sir, Very respectfully Yo: Mo: Obt. Servt & faithful friend! William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 10 Dec. and so recorded in SJL. state of things at nachitoches: in his most recent dispatch to Madison, dated 3 Nov., Claiborne enclosed copies of several communications regarding tensions at Natchitoches, particularly allegations that Spanish authorities at Nacogdoches were promoting desertion and rebellion among American-held slaves and
that Spanish subjects were encouraging Indians in U.S. territory “to the commission of outrages.” Claiborne asked Casa Calvo to use his influence to prevent the Spanish commander at Nacogdoches, José Joachín Ugarte, from offering refuge to escaped slaves and to urge the governor of Texas to restrain his administration from “all acts of aggression or injury” toward American citizens (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:254-5; John Sibley to TJ, 2 Sep.).
From Emilia Jervis Sir Baltimore Novemb 4 1804 A Poor and distressed girl now addresses you, I give you no title fearing to expose my ignorance an least I should offend you by thinking it would be pleasing, I have a Father who by an unfortunate surcumstance is ruined, he was security for a man who was thaught of unblemished charector who has some time since fleed and now my Dear father has neather house nor home but what he is depending for, last night I plaid on the piano forte for the last time and the first 640
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place I came to was to your march, this Sir is the reason why I address myself to you my father had just before told me that he intended to leave this place for ever, I have yet one blessing while my daughter remains I smiled and told him that with him I should always be happy and I shall, next week I leave the spot where I was born never perhaps to see it more, I ask some little asistance to seporte My good and aged father on our journeny if you can spare a small triffle of money it will be the means of a poor girl seporting her father in his old age was we to stay hear I coud mintane myself by my wourk but my father will not at a place he once he was independant to berdinsom he thinks to them that now him Oh sir it is hear to think of they days that is past I was then carressed and fattered but since this misfortune I am looaked at and not recolected forgive me for blistiring the pappe with my tears for I can say with truth in the happist moment of my life I near felt so truly bleast as when I reconcile my feather to his fate he ast me to tell him candidly if my composure was not feained I told him that I always wish for a oppetunity to show him fortitude (and I ecnoledg this a severe Stroke) but what daugtter would I change with) I could not close my eys last night to think of our journey and the season of the year that I fear for Myself. I rouse with the daun and write to you least we should be gone before aney asistance comes to hand, May my blessings ever attend you is the prear of a most unfortinate girl Emilia Jervis this day I have entred my seventhen year and I must meet my father with a smile for he little nows how I have spent the Morning RC (MHi); at foot of text: “Derect to Me Batimore”; endorsed by TJ as received 6 Nov. and so recorded in SJL.
your march: for “Jefferson’s March,” see Vol. 33:98n; Vol. 34:418n.
From Henry Dearborn Sir War Department Novr. 5th. 1804 I have the honor to propose for your approbation Matthew Whyte and John J. Kelly as Cadets in the Corps of Artillerists With Sentiments of esteem & respect I am yours &c FC (Lb in DNA: RG 107, LSP). On 8 Nov., Dearborn wrote to matthew whyte and john j. kelly to in-
form them that the president had approved their appointments and that they should report to West Point “as early as practicable” (DNA: RG 107, LSMA).
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Memorandum from Albert Gallatin [5 Nov. 1804]
Memoranda The United States sell all their lands at the rate of two dollars per acre payable ¼th at the time of making the purchase, and the remainder in three equal instalments 2, 3, & 4 years after the date of the purchase. No interest is charged, and a discount, at the rate of 8 per cent a year is allowed in case of prompt payment; which reduces the price to one dollar & 64 cents per acre, if the purchaser pays the whole purchase money when he purchases. The public lands thus offered for sale extend on the north side of the river Ohio, almost without interruption, from the western boundary of Pennsylvania, (about 40 miles below Pittsburgh) to the Mississippi on a breadth (from the Ohio back) of about 100 miles. Fifteen or twenty millions of Acres remain unsold in that extent; and as the United States sell in quantities as small as 160 acres, & permit a man to purchase where he pleases, first rate lands may be selected in numerous places without difficulty. Through such an extent, a great variety of situation & climate must be expected. Generally speaking, the eastern part of the tract, and those most remote from large water courses are the most healthy. The whole country from the Wabash to the Mississippi, particularly what borders on those two rivers & on the Ohio is low and swampy, and altogether ineligible for Europeans. Besides that country, the United States have for sale on the same terms about one million of acres on or near the Mississippi, and near twice as much on Mobile river; both tracts in the Mississippi territory, rather (what is unsold) of an inferior quality to the land north of Ohio; but by reason of vicinity to market & cotton cultivation supposed to be more valuable: the situation on account of climate &c ineligible to Europeans. No expectation to be entertained that Congress shall give more favourable terms to emigrants than to citizens. No provision yet made for the sale of public lands in Louisiana; if made it will not be on more favoured terms than on the East of the Mississippi. One thirty sixth part of the public lands, on one mile square in each township six miles square, is every where reserved for the support of schools; and several townships for colleges at convenient distances. RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25384); undated; entirely in Gallatin’s hand; en-
dorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 5 Nov. and “lands”
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5 NOVEMBER 1804 and so recorded in SJL. Enclosed in TJ to Sylvanus Bourne, 17 Dec. Gallatin’s memorandum summarizing terms of sale and locations of public lands was an apparent response to queries the administration received from rep-
resentatives of prospective immigrants from Europe (Sylvanus Bourne to Madison, 27 May, listed as Enclosure No. 6 at Madison to TJ, 4 Aug.; Christophe Winckelblech to TJ, 20 Aug.; Bourne to TJ, 31 Aug.).
From James Lyle Dear Sir Manchester Novr. 5th. 1804 I was over the mountains (at Rock fish) last august & part of Septr., I had promised my self the honor & pleasure of paying you a visit at Montecello but on my return to Charlottsville I understood you were gone to Orrange County, this lessened the pleasure of my trip, not a little. When I think on, how much your mind must be engaged with the arduous affairs of Government I am afraid my letters may be troublesome to you, yet I would just beg leave to tell you, that our company were so pressing for remittances to relieve them from embarrassments in Britain, that I have hitherto sent them every shilling I could collect, without retaining my own salary, which leaves a considerable sum due to me. I am now in want of money & am collecting to pay my self. I will be much obliged to you for your assistance; the last I received was 500 dollars in October 1803. I will have the statement carried on from that sent you, ready to forward when I hear of your return to Montecello Most sincerely wishing you every kind of prosperity I am with the greatest Esteem & Regard Dear Sir Your Most hue Servt James Lyle RC (MHi); at head of text: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esquire”; endorsed by TJ as received 10 Nov. and so recorded in SJL.
last i received: in his financial memoranda for 15 Oct. 1803, TJ recorded sending an order on Gibson & Jefferson to Lyle for partial payment of the Henderson, McCaul & Co. debt (mb, 2:1110).
From Louis André Pichon Baltimore 5th 9ber 1804.
Mr. Pichon a l’honneur de presenter ses respects à monsieur Le President des Etats Unis & de le remercier de l’envoi qu’il a pris la peine de faire à Mr. Pichon d’une lettre à lui adressée de France. Mr. P. espere avoir l’honneur après demain de reiterer à Mr. Le President 643
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personellement ses hommages respectueux. Mr. Pichon a laissè madame á Phile. assez bien portante: mais elle ne pourra se mettre en route pour Washington que dans une dizaine de jours. e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Baltimore, 5 Nov. 1804 Mr. Pichon has the honor of presenting his respects to the president of the United States and thanking him for taking the trouble of forwarding a letter that had arrived for him from France. Mr. Pichon hopes to have the honor of repeating his respectful homage to the president in person on the day after tomorrow. Mr. Pichon has left Mrs. Pichon in Philadelphia. She is in relatively good health, but will not be able to leave for Washington for another ten days. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 6 Nov. and so recorded in SJL.
From Philippe Reibelt Baltimore St. Patrik’s Row No. 61,
Monsieur le President! Le 5 Nov. 1804. Par une lettre, que Vous avez adresseè a Mr. Fleischer, qui est reparti pour l’Europe, il y a quelques jours, Vous demandez les titres et les prix des Ouvrages nouveaux et bons, qui se trouvent dans notre Magazin. Pour Nous y conformer, Nous avons l’honneur, de Vous faire parvenir par le même Courier les Catalogues, que Nous avons fait paroitre jusqu’içi—Mais pour Vous mettre à même de juger du Merite de çes Ouvrages, Nous avons crû, qu’il etoit necessaire, de Vous adresser de tems en tems quelques uns des plus precieux parmi çeux qui sont le plus fait pour Vous interesser. Nous ferons pour Commencer, partir demain par le Stage une Caisse, du Contenu de laquelle Nous joignons içi une Note avec les prix, qui est celui de Paris, en y ajoutant seulement les fraix sans benefice ulteriure. Dans le Cas ou il y auroit dans les Ouvrages, que Nous aurons l’honneur, de Vous envoÿer, quelque Chose d’endomagè soit dans les Gravures, soit dans le texte, Nous le remplacerons incessament. Nous executerons Toujours avec empressement et exactitude les ordres que Vous Voudrez bien Nous adresser, que les Objets se trouvent dans Notre Magazin ou Non—et avons l honneur d’etre avec le plus profond respect Votre Excellence Tr. hble. et tr. Obst. str Reibelt 644
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t r a n s l a t i o n
Baltimore, 61 St. Patrick’s Row Mister President! 5 Nov. 1804 In your letter to Mr. Fleischer, who left for Europe a few days ago, you requested the titles and prices of good new works in our store. In response to your request, we have the honor of sending you, in this same mail, our catalogues to date. To permit you to judge the merit of these works, we thought it necessary to send you, periodically, some of the most valuable among those you might find of greatest interest. We will begin by sending a case tomorrow by coach. Attached you will find an invoice with the prices. It is the bill from Paris, to which we have added only expenses, with no additional profit. If there is damage to any of the works we have the honor of sending you, either prints or texts, we will replace them immediately. We will always fill your orders promptly and precisely, whether or not we have the items in stock. With deep respect, your excellency, we have the honor of being your very humble and obedient servants. Reibelt RC (DLC); above signature: “Le Magazin de Levrault, Schoell et Comp Libraires a Paris”; endorsed by TJ as received 5 Nov. and so recorded in SJL
with notation “a book seller.” Enclosed catalogs not found. une lettre: TJ to William Fleischer, 13 Oct.
e n c l o s u r e
List of Books Sent to Jefferson Note sur la 1re. Caisse des Livres envoyès à Mr. Le President Jefferson. Doll. Histoire nat. des Perroquets &c Tome ler. 120 Traitè des Arbres et Arbustes—16 Livraison 112 Plans des Maisons de Paris—20 40 Acerbi Travel’r In Sweden 12 Hist. nat. des Volcans 2 Harmonie Hydrovegetale 3½ Vüe de la Colonie espagnole du Missisippi &c 2 Histoire des Chênes &c p. Michaud 10 Annales du Museum d’histoire naturelle 2 tomes 20 Philosophie de Kant 2½ Gallerie Complette du Museum Central a Paris 12 Livraisons 30 Michaux flora Americana 24 Menagerie de Paris—8 Livraisons 24 Tableau de l’Amerique p. Volney 3¼ Atlas de Mentelle 54 ⎫ Virgilius 2 ⎬ stereotype ⎭ Horatius 2½ Vies et Oeuvres des Peintres &c 10 histoire Naturelle de 2 elephans a Paris 6
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5 NOVEMBER 1804 MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25398); addressed: “À Son Excellence Monsieur le President Jefferson à Federal City”; postmarked Baltimore, 5 Nov. gallerie complette: Cours historique et élémentaire de peinture, ou Galerie
complette du muséum central de France, par une société d’amateurs et d’artistes, published by Antoine Michel Filhol in Paris beginning in 1802. Edme mentelle was a French geographer who produced several atlases of variant titles.
From William Short Dear Sir Philadelphia Nov. 5. 1804 I had the pleasure of writing you from New York on the 19th. of July, which letter I observe you recieved—I have since then been so constantly under way that I have omitted until now, acknowleging the reciept of your two favors of July 22. & Sep. 20. & for which I beg you to accept my thanks—The last inclosed a plat of the land tenanted (for which I am particularly indebted as it is the only information received) & subjoined the articles of account between us—Mr Taylor informed me at the time of the payments made, viz. of 500 d. early in August by Mr Barnes—& of 500 d. early in Octob—from yourself, of which he will of course have given the proper reciepts— As I am now here myself I will ask the favor of you to address to me directly any future remittances which may be made—In the case of my leaving Philadelphia I will take care to give due notice thereof. Since my last I have recieved information from the friend to whom I wrote as to the Vin de Cahusac, that directions had been given for its being sent to Bordeaux—It will be delivered there to the American Consul as the best means of getting it safe & soon to you. I was much obliged to you for your friendly invitation to visit you at Monticello—The tour which I had projected rendered it impossible for me to avail myself of it—I have employed the latter part of the summer & a part of the autumn in visiting a part of our country entirely new to me—I have of course been much gratified by it on a variety of accounts—My intercourse has been for the most part with that class called Federalist, because it is that which is most in the habit of recieving & treating strangers—but I have invariably accepted & returned the civilities proffered me without any kind of regard to the political character—The line of distinction in society seems to be more deeply marked between political parties in Boston, than in any other place I have visited, & yet I met the opposed individuals at the same table in a few instances—I have more than once wished you could have been present & invisible where I was when 646
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there were only those of that country who are styled Federalists—I think you would have seen with pleasure that the more enlightened & better sort among them really disapprove the vile & abominable abuse contained in the newspapers—I have heard it spoken of repeatedly & condemned by them on every principle—& particularly on that of the dangerous policy of accustoming the people to consider those who administer the Government, in any other than the most respectable light, & of course of weakening their respect for Government— This consideration operates probably with many who are personally unfriendly or even hostile—I have since my arrival in America had frequent opportunities of observing several errors on both sides as to the conduct & probable motives of opponents, arising from the want of communication, & consequent impossibility of information—In the course of my journey I met with a federal character whose name had been long known to me, & who must be considered of weight & of high standing in his party, if we may judge from the frequent abuse of him in the opposite papers, I recollect well hearing this gentleman in particular state that he had given notice to the Editor of a Federal paper, that if he did not desist from personal abuse of the First Magistrate, he would withdraw his subscription; observing to him at the same time that he had no objection to his most severe animadversion on any of the acts of administration that he disapproved—The abuse continuing he withdrew his name from the paper & had not since allowed it to be sent to him—He observed to the Gentlemen of his party that it was what they all ought to do—& I heard no person dissent from it. How far they follow his example I cannot say. Our country would be too happy if party spirit could be kept within such bounds on all sides—It is perhaps however more than we can expect the baser passions of man will ever submit to. I find here most of the personages appurtaining to the Diplomatick corps—With one of them who was at Monticello lately, I have just had some conversation brought on by himself as to the state of affairs between the two countries—I told him, as was true, that I was uninformed as to the subject except so far as was known to the public. Monroe I suppose is now at Madrid or on his way—If he is not already aware of it, it would be well for him to know that by far the most influential character in that Country is the P. of Peace—He for some time has had no department & I believe holds none now—but notwithstanding that, he is the person to aim at, if success is desired— He has an hold on the K. & Q, that will always, until it shall be completely dissolved, give him an absolute ascendancy—& he, to those who know him well presents a lever by which he may be acted on as 647
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completely as on a child—He has once had the appearance of being in disgrace—but it was in fact only a pouting fit & all on his side.—& he was then so completely the master that he could have done whatever he should have thought worth his while, although there were some things done against his will by surprize. Whilst I was in that Country he held the Department of Foreign affairs, but I know that he has been as influential since; as then when he governed absolutely all the Departments—I had from peculiar circumstances which were related at the time, an opportunity of seeing him naked as it were— He has strong passions & easily acted on—Notwithstanding the Spanish reserve, he was brought to confide himself to me as much perhaps as any man could do in the delicate case of negotiating a peace with France without the participation of England, where all his fears of discovery were alive, but where his irritation against England was worked up still higher—I think Monroe may obtain a great deal of him by getting the right side of him—& he may be assured that whatever he consents to he will either persuade or force the Court to subscribe— I state this from a supposition that there has been no revolution in the real situation of the P. of P. whatever the apparent one may be—Of this Monroe will be able to judge on the spot. With assurances of the most perfect esteem & respect, I remain Dear Sir, your obedt. & hble. servt W: Short RC (DLC); at foot of first page: “Thomas Jefferson Pr: U.S.”; endorsed by TJ as received 8 Nov. and so recorded in SJL.
one of them who was at monticello lately: Carlos Martínez de Irujo. The Prince of peace was the title of Manuel Godoy, who regained Spanish royal favor in 1801 (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 1:43; Vol. 33:295n).
From William Henry Harrison Dear Sir St. Louis 6th. Novr. 1804. Mr Augustus Choteau will have the Honor to deliver you this. A gentleman who is justly considered not only from his large fortune & superior information but from the Amiableness of his character, as the first Citizen of Upper Louisiana—You will I am sure derive great pleasure from his Conversation as his Knowledge of this country is certainly superior to what is possessed by any other person & every thing that comes from him may be relied upon with the utmost Confidence It gives me great satisfaction to be able to inform you that nine tenths of the people of this Country are warmly attached to the Gov 648
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ernment of the United States—If in the Petition of which Mr Choteau is the bearer there are found expressions which appear to Contradict this opinion, they must be attributed to the irritation produced by the1 insulting misrepresentations of them which have been published through the United States & to the violent language of the speeches of some of the members of Congress (particularly Mr Lyons) on the subject of the Louisiana bill—It was immagined that they ought not to speak of their own grievances in Terms more moderate than those used by persons who did not feel them— The people of this District wish for nothing more than to have a Seperate Territorial Government of there own in the second or representative grade. If I had been so fortunate as to have arrived here before the meeting was dissolved which framed the petition it would have been clothed in very different language— I have divided the District of Louisiana into five Districts in the manner you directed & am now employed in organising the Courts & Militia— I have the Honor to be Dr Sir, with perfect esteem your Obliged Sert. Willm. H. Harrison RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 10 Jan. 1805 and “by Chouteau” and so recorded in SJL. petition: in September, delegates from upper Louisiana gathered at St. Louis to protest the 26 Mch. act dividing Louisiana and providing for its temporary government. Meeting president Charles Gratiot observed that Congress passed the act with little information regarding their country, and no inhabitant of the district was present to represent its interests. As a result, residents of upper Louisiana were “calumniated” in Congress and portrayed as “a set of covetous, rapacious land jobbers, who by false, antidated, counterfeited deeds, had monopolized the greatest quantity of the vacant lands of the district of Louisiana.” In a petition to Congress, signed on 29 Sep., the dele-
gates prayed for the repeal of the act and the establishment of a representative government for Louisiana District. The petitioners also opposed plans to resettle eastern Indians in the west and sought the protection of slavery in the district, the privilege of sending a delegate to Congress, and the recognition of land titles and legal judgments issued by Spanish authorities. The meeting deputized Auguste Chouteau and Eligius Fromentin to carry the petition to Washington, where it was presented in the House of Representatives on 4 Jan. 1805 (Terr. Papers, 13:43-6; Representation and Petition of the Representatives Elected by the Freemen of the Territory of Louisiana [Washington, D.C., 1805]; jhr, 5:78). manner you directed: TJ to Harrison, 14 July. 1 Preceding
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four words interlined.
To Reuben Lewis Dear Sir Washington Nov. 6. 04. I inclose you a letter directed to your brother which came to me under cover a few days ago. I have the pleasure also to inform you that we have lately recieved thro a channel meriting entire confidence, advice that on the 4th. of Aug. he was at the mouth of the river Plate, 600 miles up the Missouri, where he had met a great council of the Missouris, Panis & Ottos, at their invitation; and had also on their request appointed among them three grand chiefs. two of his men had deserted from him. he had with him 2. boats and about 48 men. he was then setting out up the river. one of his boats & half the men would return from his winter quarters. in the spring he would leave about a fourth where he wintered to make corn for his return, & would proceed with the other fourth. all accounts concur in the entire friendly dispositions of the Indians and that he will be through his whole course as safe as at home. believing that this information would be acceptable to your self, his mother & friends, I communicate it with pleasure and with it tender my salutations & best wishes. Th: Jefferson PoC (CSmH); at foot of text: “Mr. Lewis”; endorsed by TJ. Enclosure not found. Reuben Lewis (1777-1844) was the younger brother of Meriwether Lewis and exercised his power of attorney. Their mother was the widow Lucy Meriwether Lewis Marks, a Monticello neighbor. In 1808, Reuben Lewis traveled west with his brother to St. Louis. William Clark engaged him as Indian subagent at Fort Osage, where he also assisted George Sibley in the factory store. Over the next 12 years, Lewis worked concurrently as a trapper and partner with the Missouri Fur Company and as a government agent to the Mandans, Osages, and Cherokees.
Family concerns forced him in 1821 to return to Virginia, where he married first cousin Mildred Dabney and settled into life on his Albemarle farm, Valley Point (John C. Jackson, “Reuben Lewis: Fur Trader, Subagent, and Meriwether’s Younger Brother,” We Proceeded On, 38 [2012], 8-17; Reuben Gold Thwaites, ed., Travels in the Interior of America in the Years 1809, 1810, and 1811, by John Bradbury [Cleveland, 1904], 153; Vol. 40:498n). The channel of communication was likely Amos Stoddard, who in a letter of 29 Sep. to Dearborn reported news of Lewis’s audience with a gathering of Indians and departure from the mouth of the Platte River (DNA: RG 107, RLRMS).
From William McFarland Sir, Cincinnati Nov 6th. 1804 Having learned, that Dr. Wm. Goforth, has been named to you, as a person well qualified, for the discharge, of the duties of some respectable office, in the Louisiana country,—And having understood— 650
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unfavourable impressions, has been attempted to be made upon your mind relative to him (viz) that he indulged himself in frequent acts of intemperance—it is these circumstances alone divested of every species of interest, that influences me to communicate to you; for I sensibly feel for this honest man—And I beleive that no man can say, that his lips ever disguised the feelings of his heart; which honesty has subjected him to federal persecution; the consequences of which has reduced him to much difficulty—so much that he has at last resolved, to leave Cincinnati, and settle on the Missisippi; in one of the most populous Towns; and if any thing offered in that part of the country; I know it would be gratefully acknowledged, and I am equally assured, that the duties attached to any trust—reposed in him, would be faithfully discharged—And as to improper indulgencies, I am extremely sorry that any man should err so far as to make such a representation—for I have had the honor of an acquantance, with the Doctr, for years past, and I have never heard of, or known any act, that would warrant such a conclusion—But Sir I doubt not but that the imposition is attempted by some of the Aristacratic party, although perhaps in an indirect manner, and the person accomplishing their views, may do it innocently—for I am told by men whose integrity cannot be doubted, that some of our greatest Cincinnati feds,—when with you or in the Eastern States; pretend to be the greatest friends of the Government, And I think from corroborateing circumstances there is conclusive evidence, of their having effected their design,— but it may be as I am unknown to you, that it may be considered presumption, in me the attempt of writing in the present case; but if so, I hope it will be pardoned; when you reflect that the only object, is to lead to a farther inquiry, (if it may be thought proper—) which cannot fail of repairing the injury— Be pleased Sir to accept the highest assurances, of my sincere wishes for your prosperity—And of that Government over which preside— whilst with due deference, I am your Obt. Svt. William McFarland RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at head of text: “To his Excellency, Thomas Jefferson, Esquire, President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 22 Nov. and “Goforth Dr. Wm. for emploimt.” and so recorded in SJL. William McFarland of Cincinnati briefly held a number of local offices in quick succession during the early 1800s, including sheriff of Hamilton County, state
senator, and associate judge of the county court of common pleas. In 1807, he traveled to Richmond to give testimony in the federal indictment against Senator John Smith of Ohio for his alleged involvement in the Burr conspiracy. During this journey, McFarland apparently visited TJ at Monticello (History of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, Ohio, 2 vols. [Cincinnati, 1894], 1:158, 243, 245, 247; Evidence Reported to the Senate, by the Committee
651
6 NOVEMBER 1804 Appointed to Inquire into the Facts Relating to the Conduct of John Smith, a Senator from the State of Ohio, December 21,
1807 [Washington, D.C., 1807], 35-6; McFarland to TJ, 8 Oct. 1807).
Memorandum on Commissions for the Legislative Council of Orleans Territory [on or after 6 Nov. 1804]
inclose to heads of departments for their information of the principles on which the legislative council of Orleans1 was composed, and of the result. to be returned. The Commissions for the legislative council of Orleans were sent blank to Govr. Claiborne to be filled up as follows. Americans. Morgan. Clarke Watkins [Jones. declines acceptance. Romans of the Attacapas.2 instead of him Kenner is appointed Wikoff of Appelousas. George Pollock ⎬⎫ one only of these was to be appointed: but I ⎭ suspect both are. or Dr. Dow. Creoles. Boré. Poydrasse of Pt. Coupée Bellechasse Dubuys ⎪⎫ from these 5. Claiborne was to select Cantarelle. Acadn coast ⎪⎪ 3. but he has excluded the 3. last on ⎬ acct of their absence. & to make up Sauvé ⎪ ⎪ the number I suspect he has put in Detrahan ⎪ ⎭ both Pollock & Dow, because he says Derbigny in his letter that ‘excepting Kenner, all the other Counsellors are taken from my list’ MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 143:24823-4); undated, but see below; entirely in TJ’s hand on two leaves of a folded sheet. This list replicated TJ’s initial choices for the legislative council of Orleans Ter-
ritory but also reflected information that the administration received on or soon after 6 Nov. Evan jones declined his appointment on 8 Oct., a decision William C. C. Claiborne reported in a letter of that day to Madison. In his letter of 5 Oct. to TJ,
652
6 NOVEMBER 1804 received 6 Nov., Claiborne indicated substituting William kenner for Jacques Roman and excluding Pierre sauvé, Jean Noël Destréhan, and Pierre Derbigny because of their planned visit to Washing-
ton (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:139-40; TJ to Claiborne, 30 Aug.). 1 MS:
“Orleas.” three words interlined.
2 Preceding
Notes on Candidates for the Legislative Council of Orleans Territory [on or after 6 Nov. 1804]
1. of these
⎨
Morgan Clarke Watkins Jones. declines William Kenner1 Romans of Attacapas (Creole. no English.) mercht. N.O. Wikoff. Appalousas
Dr Dow ⎧ ⎩
⎧ ⎪ ⎪
3. out of these
⎪
⎨ ⎪ ⎪ ⎪
⎩
Boré Poydras of Pt. Coupé Bellechasse
Dubuys Cantarelle. Acadn. coast.
MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25347); undated; entirely in TJ’s hand. These notes may have served as TJ’s working draft for the preceding document. His emendations mostly reflect information the administration received on
or soon after 6 Nov. It is unclear why he canceled the entry for george pollock, who accepted an appointment in December (Claiborne to TJ, 2 Dec.). 1 Name
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interlined.
To Martha Jefferson Randolph My dearest Martha Washington Nov. 6. 04. I send you the inclosed magazine supposing it may furnish you a few moments amusement, as well as to the reading members of your family. Mr. Randolph arrived here Sunday evening in good health and brought me the welcome news, that you were all well. Congress has as yet formed but one of it’s houses; there being no Senate. my heart fails me at the opening such a campaign of bustle & fatigue: the unlimited calumnies of the federalists have obliged me to put myself on the trial of my country by standing another election. I have no fear as to their verdict; and that being secured for posterity, no considerations will induce me to continue beyond the term to which it will extend. my passion strengthens daily to quit political turmoil, and retire into the bosom of my family, the only scene of sincere & pure happiness. one hour with you & your dear children is to me worth an age past here. mr Eppes is here, with Francis in the highest health. he tells me he left our dear little Maria very well at Eppington, and all the family there. tell Anne it is time for her to take up her pen. she shall have letter for letter. for Ellen I have a beautiful pair of little Bantams; but how to get them to her is the difficulty. in the spring I shall be able to send them. kiss all the young ones for me, and be assured yourself of my tenderest unchangeable love. Th: Jefferson RC (NcU); at foot of text: “Mrs. Randolph.” Enclosure not found.
For TJ’s plan that his grandchildren raise bantams, see Vol. 42:254-5, 365-6.
From Alexander I, Emperor of Russia Monsieur. à St. Petersbourg ce 7 Novembre 1804. J’ai vû avec plaisir par Votre lettre du 15 Juin passé la justice que Vous rendez aux sentimens qui m’engagèrent à interposer mes bons offices pour la restitution de la frégatte américaine, échouée sur les côtes de Tripoli et il m’a été particulièrement agréable en donnant à une Nation respectable cette marque de ma considération, d’avoir pû contribuer à Votre satisfaction personnelle. Je désire que ce témoignage non équivoque de mes bonnes Dispositions, serve à augmenter les relations commerciales qui commencent à s’établir entre les deux Pays: il doit être pour Vos concitoyens un gage de l’hospitalité, de la protection & des prérogatives dont ils jouiront toujours dans mes Etats. Je partage Votre opinion sur un acte qui ne sauroit rien y ajouter & je compte d’autant plus sur la reci 654
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procité de la part du Gouvernement des Etats unis envers mes sujets, que sa sagesse ne me laisse aucun doute sur la sincérité des assurances que Vous me donnez à cet égard. De tout temps j’ai nourri une haute Estime pour Votre Nation qui a sû faire de son indépendance l’emploi le plus noble, en se donnant une constitution libre & sage qui assure le bonheur de tous & d’un chacun. Extrêmement sensible à l’intérêt que Vous me témoignez prendre au bien être & à la prospérité de la russie, je crois ne pouvoir mieux exprimer combien mes sentimens envers les Etats unis sont reciproques sous ce rapport, qu’en fesant des voeux pour qu’ils conservent longtemps à la tête de leur administration un Chef aussi vertueux qu’éclairé. C’est avec un vrai plaisir, Monsieur, que je me trouve avoir l’occasion de Vous assurer de ma considération toute particulière. Sur ce Je prie Dieu qu’il Vous ait en sa sainte & digne garde. Alexandre e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Sir, St. Petersburg, 7 Nov. 1804 I was pleased by the gratitude you expressed in your June 15 letter for the sentiments that inspired my help toward the restitution of the American frigate shipwrecked on the coast of Tripoli. Demonstrating my esteem for a respected nation, I was especially happy to be able to give you personal satisfaction. I hope this unequivocal sign of my good will increases the commercial relations that are beginning to develop between our two countries. May this gesture signal to your fellow citizens the hospitality, protection, and privileges they will always enjoy in my country. I share your opinion about an act that would not add anything, and count all the more on reciprocity for my subjects from the United States. The wisdom of your opinion does not leave me any doubt about the sincerity of the assurances you have given me in this regard. I have always admired your nation which was able to make the highest use of its independence by providing a free and wise constitution to ensure the happiness of each and all. I am very grateful for the interest you have shown in Russia’s well-being and prosperity, and can only say that it mirrors my feelings toward the United States. I hope your country will long retain a wise, just leader as head of state. It is a true pleasure, Sir, to have the opportunity to assure you of my very special consideration. I pray God to keep you under his holy, august protection. Alexandre RC (NNPM); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Alexander; at foot of first page: “à Mr. le Président des Etats-Unis d’Amérique”; endorsed by TJ as received 21 May 1805 and so recorded in SJL. FC (RuAVPR). Tr (DNA: RG 59, Ceremonial Letters). FC (DLC: Short Papers).
un acte: Alexander was responding to TJ’s assertion that a commercial treaty was not necessary for good relations between their nations (Vol. 43:591).
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From James Brobson Sir/ Wilmington November 7th. 1804 Inclosed you will receive a papers signed by Sixty-three1 of my republican fellow Citizens recommending my appointment to the Collectors Office, in the event of the removal of Allen McLane Esquire from that Office, and I beg leave Sir, to refer you for further information respecting my Character and qualification for the Office to John Dickinson and Ceaser A. Rodney Esquire and particularly to Mr. Rodney for the Character of those who have signed my recommendation. I am with sentiments of respect Sir Your Obedt servt. Jas. Brobson RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Prest. of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Nov. and “to be Collector v. Mc.lane” and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures: see below. a papers: Brobson may have enclosed two recommendations, one signed by 60
supporters, not found, and an added recommendation from William Poole, Cyrus Newlin, and Robert Newlin, printed at 8 Oct. 1 Brobson first wrote “a paper signed by Sixty” before altering the phrase to read as above.
From Pierre Chouteau Monsieur, St. Louis le 7me. novbre. 1804 Par la derniere que J’ai eu l’honneur de vous écrire le 12.—du mois dernier, Je vous ai marqué mon arrivée avec les ozages: depuis ce temp Je les ai fait partir il sont maintenant en chemin pour se rendre a leur village après un long et constamment heureux voyage, Je me disposois moi même a aller les accompagner, mais l’Arrivée de monsr. le Gouverneur harrison avec le quel Je me suis entendu pour reclamer les sakias qui se sont Rendus coupables de meurtre il y a quelques temps et dont nous avons un coupable, m’a retenu et m’a empeché de continuer mon dessein; maintenant la saison étant trop avancée pour remplir ma mission, Je fais partir l’interprete pour Rassembler la nation pour les premiers Jours du printems vu que dans ce moment elle est dispersée pour les Chasses d’automne. on ne sauroit être plus satisfait que ne le sont les Ozages du succès de leur voyages dans les Etats Unis; une seule Chose a peiné les Cheveux Blancs il a été on ne peut plus surpris d’apprendre a notre arrivée, qu’il étoit passé beaucoup de traiteurs par la Riviere des Arkansas pour aller au village de la Grand Piste, (qui est ce chef revolté), d’après la promesse que vous lui aviez faites il s’atendoit que ce village auroit été absolument privé 656
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de marchandise etant le moyen le plus sure de Ramener ce Chef Revolté a l’obeissance il ma particulierement Chargé de vous l’Ecrire. permettez moi Monsieur, d’avoir l’honneur de vous observer que Je crois que la privation de marchandises seroit le moyen le plus prompt et en même temp le plus sure de Reunir cette partie de la nation a la masse Totale, et que l’on Reussiroit bien plus vite a remplir ce but, de cette manniere, que par tout autre, Je suis trop bien convaincu d’ailleurs de vos hautes lumieres pour être persuadé que vous ne ferez que ce qui sera Juste et prudent a cet egard. Mon frere vous remettra cette lettre, il a été Choisi par les habitants de ce District pour faire pour eux quelques demandes au congrèss, oserai-je, Monsieur, vous demander votre protection pour lui; les bontés dont vous m’avez comblé; votre affabilité enfin toutes les qualités Reunies en vous, me sont garant que vous ne me Refuserez pas cette faveur. limpossibilité ou je suis par mes expression de vous Temoigner toute ma reconnoissance me fait me borner a vous assurer qu’elle est pour toujours Gravée dans mon Cœur, daignez me Conserver votre estime et votre Protection Je suis avec1 un profond Respect Monsieur Votre très heumble et très obeissant Serviteur Pre. Chouteau e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
Sir, St. Louis, 7 Nov. 1804 In the last letter I had the honor of sending you, on the 12th of last month, I informed you of my arrival here with the Osages. I have since sent them on their way. They are en route toward their village after a long and entirely happy journey. I was prepared to accompany them personally, but could not carry out my plan because I was retained by the arrival of Governor Harrison, with whom I reached an agreement to demand the Sacs who were recently guilty of murder. We have one guilty party. I am sending an interpreter to convene the nation in the first days of spring, since everyone is now dispersed for autumn hunting. The Osages could not be more pleased with the success of their travels in the United States. Just one thing pained White Hair: he was extremely surprised to learn, on our arrival, that many traders had crossed the Arkansas River to reach the village of Grand Piste, who is a rebel chief. Based on your promises, White Hair expected the village to be totally deprived of supplies, since that is the surest way to bring the rebel chief into line. He specifically asked me to write to you. Allow me, Sir, to have the honor of pointing out that I believe cutting off supplies would be the swiftest, surest way to reunite this part of the nation to the rest. It would accomplish the goal much more quickly that any other means. In any case, convinced of your wisdom, I am certain you would only do what is fair and prudent in this regard. My brother is bringing you this letter. He was chosen by the inhabitants of this district to make certain requests to Congress on their behalf. May I dare
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7 NOVEMBER 1804 ask you to give him your support, Sir? The goodness you have bestowed upon me, your friendship, and all the qualities you embody reassure me that you will not refuse this request. Unable to express all my gratitude, I can only assure you that it is forever engraved in my heart. Please continue to hold me in your favor and esteem. With profound respect, Sir, I am your very humble and obedient servant. Pre. Chouteau RC (DLC); at head of text: “Monsieur Ts. Gefferson Président des Etats unis à Washington”; endorsed by TJ as received 4 Jan. 1805 and so recorded in SJL.
1 MS:
“avec avec.”
From Henry Dearborn Sir Novr. 7th. 1804— On the complaints stated by David Campbell in his letter to you of the 1t. of Octobr. I take the liberty of submiting the following observations.—It has been conciderd expedient to restrict the medical Gentlemen of the Army from private practice as much as circumstancies will permit—expensive assortments of medicine, hospital stores, and Instruments are confided to them respectively, and for which they alone are responsible; At Southwest point there are from two to three Companies of Troops, and no other medical aid but Doctr. Vandike, he has by my direction been desired not to extend his private practice beyond cases of the highest necessaty within the immediate vicinity of the Garrison.— The conduct of Capt. Campbell has been represented as highly improper for a conciderable time past, respecting which I had expected a regular enquirey would have been instituted & presume it will take place—if Majr. Macrea has been guilty of improper conduct towards Capt. Campbell, application ought to be made to the Genl. for redress. with respectfull esteem I am Sir Your Humbl Servt. H. Dearborn RC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the War Department on 7 Nov. and “Vandyke—Campbell” and so recorded in SJL.
658
Memorandum from Albert Gallatin [7 Nov. 1804]
[in Jacob Wagner’s hand:]
Mr. Pinckney Mr. Gore made no application respecting the exemption of his furniture or baggage from duty. It is not even known at the Dep. State, that any returning American Minister Plenipotentiary has claimed such exemption. [in Gallatin’s hand:] I believe that, in the case of Mr Gore a different construction took place than on the arrival of Mr Trumbull MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25379); undated; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 7 Nov. and “W. Pinckny” and so recorded in SJL with notation “W Pinckney’s baggage.” William Pinkney, Christopher gore, and John Trumbull were members of a commission set up under the Jay Treaty to settle maritime claims with England. All three men returned to the United States in 1804, Gore and Trumbull in the spring and Pinkney in late October (Baltimore Telegraphe and Daily Advertiser, 5 Nov.; Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 6:539; 7:74; Vol. 37:57-60). Gallatin raised the question of exemption in an undated note in TJ’s papers: “Information of the construction given to the law on the arrival of Mr. Gore—Was any part of his baggage, besides what is
called personal baggage, exempted from duty? Did he not apply to the Department of State? What answer was given?” (MS in DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25375; in Gallatin’s hand). That note was most likely prompted by a 3 Nov. inquiry from Pinkney to Gallatin, not found, about his own baggage, to which Gallatin replied on 9 Nov. In his response, the Treasury secretary advised Pinkney that he did not think “your public character as American Commissioner exempts from duty those articles which are not by law declared to be duty free,” adding that “in such cases, the Collector will doubtless give a liberal construction to the descriptive words ‘personal baggage.’ ” Pinkney forwarded Gallatin’s letter to the Baltimore collector, Robert Purviance, for consideration (Gallatin, Papers, 10:240).
To Charles Willson Peale Dear Sir Washington Nov. 7. 04 The two polygraphs you sent by the stage arrived in perfect order. the improvement in the writing apparatus is indeed precious. I find the pen now as light as a free pen. I immediately delivered to mr Madison the largest, with which he is well pleased, and I retain the smaller and more portable one. it pleases me extremely, and I do not know that I could desire an addition to it, but your screw pens. I do not think their weight would be objectionable, and to a person who writes with 659
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a fine pointed pen, a frequent adjustment is indispensable, and inconvenient without the screw. I am very apprehensive that the two boards, with all the care you can employ, will warp and defeat the accuracy of the copying pen. I have now packed up the one you brought here for me; and I should have sent it by the stage, but that we hourly expect a Philadelphia vessel here which is to return immediately & would certainly carry it more safely. however as it is very securely packed, if she does not arrive immediately I will send it by the stage. in the mean time I will keep & use the portable one, and should it be proof against warping, I would prefer keeping it, as I am persuaded that on the return of mine mr Beckley will be glad to recieve it, that being the identical one he saw & was pleased with. I must now ask the favor of you to furnish me with one for a friend in Europe to whom I wish to present it. (mr Volney) to be made in your neatest stile, and in the portable form I am now using, to wit, Hawkins’s, I think it would be better to equip it with a pair of screw pencases, and a pair of those which take in the whole quill, that he may suit himself. when ready, be so good as to notify me, without sending it on, as I may perhaps find an opportunity at Philadelphia of shipping it for France. let me know at the same time what should be paid you for the exchange of the present polygraphs which I shall chearfully remit with the price of the one to be now made. Accept my affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson RC (TxU); at foot of text: “Mr. Peale.” PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ.
From Robert Smith Sir, Nav Dep 7 Novr 1804 The officers proposed on the accompanying paper for nomination to the Senate, have been provisionally appointed during the last recess of the Senate. I am, sir, with great respect yr. mo: ob: st Rt Smith RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 8 Nov. and “Naval nominns” and so recorded in SJL. FC (Lb in DNA: RG 45, LSP).
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Naval Appointments Gentlemen of the Senate, I nominate Stephen Decatur jr. of Pennsylvania Thomas Tingey of District of Columbia. To be Captains in the Navy. Franklin Wharton of Pennsylvania To be Lieutenant Colo. Commdt. of the Marine Corps. Charles Stewart of Pennsylvania Isaac Hull of Massachusetts Andrew Sterett of Maryland. John Shaw of Pennsylvania. Isaac Chauncey of New York John Smith of South Carolina. Richard Somers of New Jersey & George Cox of Maryland To be Masters Commandant in the Navy. John H. Dent of Maryland To be a Lieutenant Commandant in the Navy. Starling Archer of Virginia Nathaniel J. Weems of Virginia John Ridgely of Maryland William Rogers of Maryland James Dodge of Newyork Larkin Griffin of Maryland Thomas Babbitt of Massachusetts To be Surgeons in the Navy. MS (DLC). FC (Lb in DNA: RG 45, LSP).
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Annual Message to Congress I. DRAFT OF THE ANNUAL MESSAGE, [ON OR BEFORE 25 OCT. 1804] II. JAMES MADISON’S REMARKS ON THE DRAFT, [25 OCT. 1804] III. HENRY DEARBORN’S REMARKS ON THE DRAFT, [29 OCT. 1804] IV. ALBERT GALLATIN’S REMARKS ON THE DRAFT, 29 OCT. 1804 V. GALLATIN’S REMARKS ON THE DRAFT, [29 OCT. 1804] VI. ROBERT SMITH’S REMARKS ON THE DRAFT, [31 OCT. 1804] VII. GALLATIN’S MEMORANDUM ON FINANCES, [CA. 1 NOV. 1804] VIII. GALLATIN’S DRAFT OF THE FINANCIAL SECTION, [1 NOV. 1804] IX. GALLATIN’S REVISED DRAFT OF THE FINANCIAL SECTION, [ON OR AFTER 1 NOV. 1804] X. DRAFT OF THE FINANCIAL SECTION AND CONCLUSION, [ON OR BEFORE 8 NOV. 1804] XI. ANNUAL MESSAGE TO CONGRESS, 8 NOV. 1804
E D I T O R I A L
N O T E
By October 1804, composing the annual message to Congress was a part of Jefferson’s autumn routine. As in previous years, the president circulated a draft among the heads of the executive departments for comment before submitting his final version to Congress. In 1804, however, this review process did not include the attorney general, Levi Lincoln, whose departure from Worcester on 26 Oct. likely meant that he was not in Washington when Jefferson’s draft was making its rounds among the other cabinet members (Lincoln to TJ, 14 Oct.; Worcester National Aegis, 31 Oct.). A full draft of the message for 1804 survives in Jefferson’s papers (Document i). The manuscript has the appearance of a fair copy, written on the polygraph and probably based on earlier stages of drafts that are not now extant. When Jefferson began drafting the message is not known, but the text was ready for review by the department heads on or before 25 Oct., the date on which he received James Madison’s comments (Document ii). Remarks from Henry Dearborn, Albert Gallatin, and Robert Smith followed over the next few days (Documents iii-vi). After Jefferson received comments from the department heads, he made extensive alterations on the document. As far as possible, the Editors have reconstructed the text of Document i to the form in which Jefferson circulated the draft among the heads of departments. We have restored (and enclosed in brackets) text that Jefferson struck out in the revisions he made after the cabinet members’ review. We have omitted insertions or changes that we conjecture he introduced in the revision, including a paragraph on the problem of armed merchant vessels that he added in the margin (see note 2 at Document xi). The revised text became the final version of the message that Jefferson transmitted to Congress, and so his revisions can be traced by comparing Documents i and xi. A few variations between the copies sent to the House and the Senate may mean that the version received by the House was copied from a manuscript other than Document i (see notes 1, 3, and 4 at Document xi).
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8 NOVEMBER 1804 Comparing the earlier version with the finished message, it is clear that Jefferson acted on most of the changes suggested by his executive colleagues. Many were relatively minor alterations in words and phrasing, such as Smith’s suggestion to change “will be” to “will have been” in the final sentence of the opening section. Dearborn’s remarks corrected a mistaken reference to the Potawatomis and also inspired the insertion of a sentence emphasizing the mutual benefits of the Indian trade. Other alterations were more substantial. Acting on recommendations by Gallatin and Smith, Jefferson removed a section regarding appropriations for naval repairs. Following Gallatin’s advice again, Jefferson also deleted his suggestions relating to the use of military volunteers. Comments by Madison and Gallatin led to a substantial revision of the section on “Spanish differences.” Jefferson also toned down the opening sentence of the “Gun-boats” section after Smith suggested the language in the draft “is rather too strong.” The draft as Jefferson circulated it among his advisers did not include a section regarding finances. Jefferson added that part later in the revision process, after he received the relevant information from the secretary of the Treasury (Documents vii-ix). He used a draft by Gallatin as the foundation for the financial section of the finished message, to which he added a concluding paragraph (see Document x). Jefferson dated the completed text 8 Nov., the day the message went to the Senate and the House of Representatives, but he probably finished the message a few days prior to that. The second session of the Eighth Congress commenced on 5 Nov. and the House formed a quorum the same day, but the Senate was unable to do so until 7 Nov. Later that day, a joint committee consisting of John Randolph and Roger Griswold of the House and Samuel Smith and Abraham Baldwin of the Senate waited on the president and notified him that both chambers were formed and ready to receive his communications. Jefferson replied that he would send a written message to both houses at noon the following day (jhr, 5:5-7; js, 3:412).
I. Draft of the Annual Message To the Senate & House of Representatives of the US. [on or before 25 Oct. 1804] [Aggressions in the To a people, fellow citizens, who sincerely W. Indies & in our desire the happiness and prosperity of other harbours.] nations, to those who justly calculate that their own [prosperity] is advanced by that of the nations with which they have intercourse, it will be a satisfaction to observe that the war which was lighted up in Europe a little before our last meeting, has not yet extended it’s flames to other nations, nor been [attended] by the calamities which sometimes stain the 663
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[French aggressions at N.Y.]
Spanish differences
French convention
footsteps of war. [and although we have not been altogether exempt from] the irregularities on the ocean which generally harrass the commerce of Neutral nations, [yet] in [the] distant [seas at least, the interruptions we have experienced have been fewer than on former occasions. nearer home indeed they have been more considerable,] and even within our harbors & jurisdiction, infringements on the authority of the laws have been committed which have called for serious attention. the friendly conduct of the governments from whose officers these acts have proceeded, in other respects and in places more under their observation & control, gives us confidence that our representations on this subject will [be] properly regarded.1 Soon after the passage of the act of the last session authorising the establishment of a district & port of entry on the waters of the Mobile, [within the limits of the US] we learnt that it’s [terms &] object [were] misunderstood [by the government] of Spain. candid explanations were immediately [& frankly given of the intentions of the law conformably with which it would be carried into execution. in the mean time] that government had thought [it sufficient reason for] suspend[ing] the ratification of the convention of 1802. the explanations [however] which would reach them soon after, and still more the confirmation of them by the tenor of the instrument establishing the port & district [would remove the jealousy founded on verbal misconception, and the grounds derived from that for delaying the ratification.] I have the satisfaction to inform you that the objections which had been urged by that government against the validity of our title to the country of Louisiana have been withdrawn: and to this is to be added that having prepared & delivered the stock created in ex 664
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European nations
Barbary powers.
ecution of the Convention of Paris of Apr. 30. 1803. in consideration of the cession of [Louisiana], we have recieved from the government of France [a discharge of our obligations on that behalf.] With the nations of Europe in general our friendship and intercourse are undisturbed: and from the governments of the belligerent powers especially we continue to recieve those friendly [attentions] which are justly due to an honest neutrality, & to [the] good offices consistent with that [which] we have opportunities of rendering. The activity & success of the small force employed in the Mediterranean in the early part of the present year, the reinforcement [since] sent into that sea, and the [known] energy of the officers having command in the several vessels, will, I trust, by the sufferings of war, reduce the Barbarians of Tripoli to the desire of peace on [equal] terms. great injury however ensues to ourselves as well as to others interested from the distance to which prizes must be brought for adjudication, & from the impracticability of [sending] such as are not sea-worthy. The Bey of Tunis having made requisitions unauthorised by our treaty, their rejection has produced from him some expressions of discontent. but to those who expect us to calculate whether a compliance with unjust demands will not cost us less than a war, we must leave as a question of calculation for them also whether to retire from unjust demands will not cost them less than a war. we can do to each other very sensible injuries by war. but the mutual advantages of peace makes that the best interest of both. [From] the other powers on the same coast [we have every mark of the continuance of their friendship & good understanding with us.] 665
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Louisiana
Indians
In pursuance of the act providing for the temporary government of Louisiana, the necessary officers for the territory of Orleans were appointed in due time to commence the exercise of their functions on the 1st. day of October. the distance however of some of them, and indispensible previous arrangements may have retarded it’s commencement in some of it’s parts. the form of government thus provided having been considered but as temporary and open to such future improvements as further information of the circumstances of our brethren there might suggest, it will of course be subject to your consideration. In the [upper territory] it has been thought best to adopt the division into districts which had been established under it’s former government. [this has accordingly been done, & so soon as the appointment of Commandants can be made in the forms of the constitution, that government will be in it’s due state of organisation. I lay before you a statement of the lead mines in that country that such provisions may be made respecting them as you shall deem expedient.] With the Indian tribes established within our newly acquired2 limits, I have deemed it necessary to open conferences for the purpose of establishing a good understanding and neighborly relations between us. so far as we have yet learned we have reason to believe that their dispositions are favorable and friendly. and, with these dispositions on their part we have in our own hands means which cannot fail us for preserving their peace & friendship. by pursuing an uniform course of justice towards them, by aiding them in all the improvements which may better their condition, and especially by establishing a commerce on terms which shall be advantageous to them, & only not losing to us, and so regulated as no incendiaries of our own or any other 666
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Gun-boats
nation may be permitted to disturb the [regular] effects of our just & friendly offices, we may render ourselves so necessary to their comfort and prosperity that the protection of our citizens from their disorderly members will become their interest and their voluntary care. On this side the Missisipi an important relinquishment of native title has been recieved from the Delawares. that tribe, desiring to extinguish in their people the spirit of hunting, & to convert superfluous lands into the means of improving what they retain has ceded to us all the country between the Wabash & Ohio, South of, and including the road from the Rapids towards Vincennes; for which they are to recieve annuities in animals & implements for agriculture, and in other necessaries. this acquisition is important not only for it’s extent & fertility, but as, fronting 300. miles on the Ohio, & near half that on the Wabash, the produce of the settled country descending those rivers will no longer pass in review of the Indian frontier, but in [two minor segments], and, with the cession heretofore made by the Kaskaskias, nearly consolidates our possessions North of the Ohio, in a very respectable breadth from Lake Erie to the Missisipi. the [Poutawatamies] having some claim to the country ceded by the Delawares, it has been thought best to quiet that by fair purchase also.3 so soon as the treaties on this subject shall have recieved their constitutional sanctions, they shall be laid before both houses. [In pursuance of the views of Congress in their act of Feb. 28. 1803 a number of gunboats have been built, & are now nearly ready for service.] the [effectual defence against] naval enterprize which vessels of this construction offer for our seaport towns, their utility towards supporting within our waters the authority of the laws, the promptness with which they will be manned by the seamen 667
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and militia of the place in the moment they are wanting, the facility of their assembling from different parts of the coast, to any point where they are required in greater force than ordinary, [the competence of our finances to this kind of defensive provision without any new burthen, their economical] maintenance and preservation from decay when not in actual service are [conditions] which will have due weight with Congress in deciding on the expediency of adding to their number [annually] until all our important harbours, by these and auxiliary means, shall be secured against insult & opposition to the laws. [Considerable repairs to some of our vessels of war, now necessary for their preservation, will require an appropriation commensurate with the views of the legislature on that subject. a report from the Secretary of the navy on their present condition will 4 be laid before you in due time.] No circumstance has arisen since the last session which calls for any augmentation of our regular military force. should any improvement occur in the militia system, that will always be seasonable; [& perhaps it would be prudent to make permanent provision for the acceptance of volunteers for a limited time, instead of militia, whenever called into service out of their state,5 reserving always to the states respectively their constitutional right to appoint the officers.] Accounts of the reciepts & expenditures of the last year with estimates for the ensuing one will, as usual, be laid before you. PoC (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25106-8); undated, entirely in TJ’s hand; with canceled text restored in brackets to show the early state of the manuscript (see Editorial Note). 1 TJ here inserted, then subsequently canceled: “a more particular statement on
this subject shall be given you, so soon as the necessary documents shall be recieved: and.” 2 TJ here canceled “territory.” 3 Sentence interlined. 4 Word interlined in place of “shall.” 5 Remainder of sentence interlined.
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II. James Madison’s Remarks on the Draft [25 Oct. 1804]
(a) and which have been encreased1 by peculiar circumstances in the W. Indn Seas; yet in the more distant channels at least of our trade, b. The act authorizes &c provisionally at least—a port &c without the limits of the U.S. The words in [ ] may be left out. c— [on the part of Spain—] d. [proper to suspend] will according better with the case—as the 6th art. is also made a ground of suspension. e may reasonably be expected to replace2 the Spanish Govt. in the disposition which originally concurred in the Convention f [manifestations]— g [on proper]—quer if the last circumstance may not be omitted in so general a paragraph—and left either to be includd in some particular message—or taken up on informl. suggestion h— quer here as above i [effectual] is it not too strong RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25045); undated; in Madison’s hand, including brackets; in Madison’s hand on verso, with sheet rotated: “and to which peculiar causes have contributed,” probably a false start for the first item in the remarks; endorsed by TJ as received from the State Department on 25 Oct. and “Message.” (a): Madison keyed his comments to letters that he probably marked on the copy of the draft he saw, which has not been found. His “a” comment related to the opening section of the text. His items “b” through “e” related to the section on “Spanish differences,” “f” to “European nations,” “g” to “Barbary powers,” and
“i” to “Gun-boats.” The location of his “h” comment cannot be determined. 6th art.: according to the sixth article of the 1802 claims convention between the United States and Spain, each nation would reserve the right to pursue claims stemming from the actions of foreign vessels or agents in their respective territories at a later time (Miller, Treaties, 2:494-5; Vol. 39:317n). For Spain’s recent objection to the article, see List of Letters Received from Carlos Martínez de Irujo, 25 Sep. 1 Word interlined in place of “multiplied.” 2 Word interlined in place of “restore.”
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III. Henry Dearborn’s Remarks on the Draft [29 Oct. 1804]
1t. part. insted of war Treaty
⎬
⎫ ⎪
⎪ ⎭
of that scurge to the human race, which has so frequently laid waste many of the best parts of the world, Piankashaws, & Delawares, may it not be advisable to sugjest some improvement in the present sistem of Government in uper Louisiana. may it not be expedient to say something in relation to the advantages which results from our trading houses with the Indians.
RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25071); undated; in Dearborn’s hand; endorsed by TJ as received from the War Department on 29 Oct. 1804 and “Message.”
IV. Albert Gallatin’s Remarks on the Draft Dear Sir 29 Octer. 1804 I return your message with such remarks as occurred. It was not received till Saturday, which must be my apology for not returning it sooner. The Register being absent, I have been obliged to go myself through all the minutiæ of calculations, instead of only marking the outlines and revising the work. The complete materials for your financial paragraph will not for that reason be completed till to morrow. In the mean while the following sketch is correct, except for the amount of principal public debt redeemed which is not yet ascertained. Balance in Treasury 30th Septer. 1803 5,860,981.54 Receipts during the year vizt impost 10,729,708.54 ⎪⎫ ⎬ 11,574,211.04 Lands, repayments, arrears ⎪ taxes & excise do. 844,502.50 ⎭ 17,435,192.58 Expended during the year vizt 670
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Current expences civil, & military, foreign & domestic Instalment to Great Britain Q Payments for inter. & principal pub. debt Balance in Treasury 30th Septer. 1804
⎫ ⎪ ⎪
3,727,081.31 ⎬⎪ 12,552,967.47 888,000.— ⎪ ⎪
7,937,886.16
⎪ ⎭
4,882,225.11 17,435,192.58
Q of which payments, about 3,600,000 for principal With great respect your obedt. Servt. Albert Gallatin RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 29 Oct. and “Message” and so recorded in SJL. saturday: 27 Oct. instalment to great britain: for the terms of the 8 Jan. 1802 claims con-
vention between Great Britain and the United States and the appropriation of $2,664,000 by Congress for its settlement, see Vol. 37:137n, 350n. The Treasury paid the first of three installments in 1803 (Vol. 41:498, 499n, 536).
V. Gallatin’s Remarks on the Draft [29 Oct. 1804]
Remarks on the President’s message Irregularities in American seas & in our harbours. As it is wished that Congress would make provision on two points immediately connected with the captures near S. Domingo and with the aggressions at New York, by restraining the arming of our vessels and by enabling the Executive to enforce the jurisdiction of the U. States in our ports against foreign vessels; and as the Expression of that wish would evince the disposition of the Executive equally to restrain the irregularities of our own people and to repel the insulting aggressions of the belligerent powers on our coast; would there be any objection to introduce at the end of this paragraph a recommendation to that effect? Spanish objections to the ratification of the Convention. 1. The public mind is altogether unprepared for a declaration that the terms & object of the Mobile act had been misunderstood by Spain; for every writer, without single exception, who has written on the subject, seems to have understood the act as Spain did: it has been justified by our friends on that ground; and the declaration in the 671
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message, without some short explanation, may be distorted into an avowal of 1 some humiliating concession to Spain by the Executive. Might not, to obviate this, some words be introduced where speaking of the misconceptions of Spain, which would state that Spain had erroneously supposed, that it was intended to organise a custom house, within territories still in her possession & claimed by her, before possession had been obtained by ourselves? 2. This may lead to say something of the yet unascertained boundaries of Louisiana, a subject of sufficient importance to excite animadversion if it was altogether omitted in the message, especially as the ensuing paragraph announces, in an unqualified manner, the acquiescence of Spain in the validity of their title to Louisiana. Perhaps, the ensuing paragraph might be transposed so as to precede that entitled “Spanish differences,” qualifying it by adding, that Spain however does not yet acknowledge our title to the full extent of our rightful claim: and then the subject of the misconception of the Mobile act would follow of course, & the intention of the Executive, not to abandon the claim in any degree but to abstain from exercising jurisdiction or taking forcible possession till all other means were exhausted, be fully understood. 3. The total omission of the other impediment to the ratification of the convention vizt what relates to the 6th article appears perfectly proper as it relates to Spain itself, in as much as it avoids commitment on our part and leaves them free, without wounding their pride, to recede & ratify, whilst they may understand the Tunis paragraph as perfectly applicable to themselves. But that omission as it relates to Congress, may be animadverted, as a concealment from that body of an important2 part of the whole ground. Perhaps, without expressly mentioning the article, some general expressions might be introduced, at the same time alluding to other objections of Spain, and stating the expectation that the explanation on the Mobile act would also remove them. Delivery of stock. The words “discharge of our obligations” seem too strong & general, as they might be construed to imply a discharge of our obligation to pay. The obligation from which we are discharged is that of delivering the stock within three months after the ratification of the convention as had been provided by that instrument; a provision which embarrassed us at the time on account of the proposed “bien entendu” which Pichon wanted to insert in the exchange of ratifications & on account of the delays in taking possession of New Orleans which delayed the delivery of the Stock till the last week of the three months. The legal delivery of the Stock consisted in delivering it 672
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to Lieut. Leonard, whose receipt together with a letter from Mr Pichon acknowledging that act to be a full execution of the convention, are filed in the Register’s office as the evidence of the delivery; and that letter of Pichon is the only discharge which we have received, at the Treasury, from the Government of France. Mr Livingston says, however, that he has sent to the Department of State receipts for the delivery of the Stock in France: these I have not seen, and as we considered the transaction, so far as there was any obligation on our part, closed by the delivery here, I have never applied for them: indeed I believe that they are merely personal & so far as they come from the French Government, must be a receipt not for the Stock, but for the bills of Hope & Baring which had been deposited with him & which he delivered to the French Government. The whole transaction is so complex that I think the best way will be generally to say that the Stock was timely delivered in conformity to the provisions of the convention, without giving copies of the documents which are numerous, lengthy and uninteresting.3 Add to this that it is not convenient, unless necessary, to bring into view the contract of Baring & Hope with the French Govt., for the Louisiana stock, as they gave but 16/ in the pound for it: which may excite animadversions on the state of our credit & on the conduct of the negotiators of the treaty. Barbary powers Quere whether the late accounts from the Mediterranean fully justify the expectations arising from the energy of all the officers? Upper Louisiana. I do not understand what is meant by the appointment of Commandants in the forms of the constitution. The expressions in the 12th Sect. of the act of 26 March 1804, are “except the commanding officer who shall be appointed by the President.” The same words precisely are used in the 2d & 3d Sect. of the Act “to provide for the erecting and repairing of arsenals and magazines and for other purposes” passed April 2d 1794, in relation to the appointment of superintendent & master armourer of the armouries, & of superintendent of military stores: and in those cases the power to appoint has uniformly been considered & exercised as vested in the President alone. From which I infer that the authority to appoint commandants in upper Louisiana is also vested in the President alone. But if it was not, it is perhaps as well not to allude to the principle, because there have been some instances of newly created offices which the President has, from the necessity of the case, filled during the recess of the Senate, though no special authority had been given to that effect. I remember the first collectors of Bristol (R.I.) & Michillimakinac being appointed in that way in 1801. 673
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Gun-boats The object of those vessels, as a substitute to fortifications agt. naval enterprizes, and for Supporting the authority of the laws within harbours, is correctly defined. Nor, provided that the expenditure shall be kept within due bounds, is there any plausible objection except that, after providing such as are wanted for the last mentioned purpose, those which are wanted for the first, may in case of war be so speedily built, that it is not necessary to provide for them before hand; as the expence of keeping them in repair & of the men to watch them will cost more in two years than the mere building expence. This, however, may be provided for hereafter; and I would only wish to have a true estimate of the expence of building & keeping either in actual service or ordinary, and to know the number intended to be built & to be kept in service. But so far as relates to the message, I much fear that the effort made in federal papers to impress the idea that this establisht. is intended as a substitute to the navy have so far succeeded, that some distortion of the President’s recommendation will take place. Repairs to our frigates This must certainly be done; but it seems questionable whether it should make part of the message. It is true that it ought to be considered as an evidence of the attention paid by the President to the navy; but so much has been said on the subject of the ships rotting in the Eastern branch, as if the waters of that creek had a peculiarly corrosive quality, that not only the federalists but also the inhabts. of other sea-ports will eagerly seize the opportunity to disseminate the opinion that their predictions are fulfilled. If the message shall be silent on that head, nothing more will be necessary than for the Secy. of the navy to include the item for that object in the annual estimate; and it will probably be voted without any observations. Should it, however, provoke an enquiry, the Secy. of the navy may then make a special report which may be framed so as to meet or anticipate objections & cavils. Acceptance of volunteers Is this really wanted? and may it not always be timely provided for by Congress whenever an emergency shall require it? The application for a general provision is liable to objections of an intrinsic nature, and will be artfully confounded with the system of volunteer corps under Mr Adams’s administration in 1798. Additional remarks It does not seem that the French aggressions in N. York, if they exist, should be embraced in the same sentence with the British. Even if the reports be true, their conduct has been generally unexceptionable 674
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there; and a single departure cannot be compared with the unremitted insults & blockade by the British. With the nations of Europe in general our friendship is undisturbed Does not this embrace Spain & is it not therefore too general? From the other powers on the same coast (Barbary) we have every mark of the continuance of their friendship &c. Do not the last accounts from Morocco contradict this? Territory of Orleans Is it not to be apprehended that the persons appointed members of the council, or a majority will refuse to serve? Indians of Louisiana said to be friendly so far as we have yet learned— Have not some murders been committed at St. Louis? RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25057-9); undated; in Gallatin’s hand; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 29 Oct. 1804 and “Message” and so recorded in SJL. proposed “bien entendu”: see Vol. 41:554n. letter from mr pichon: see Gallatin to TJ, 18 Jan. (Vol. 42:311-13). volunteer corps: section 3 of the 1798 act to raise a provisional army empowered the president to accept volunteer companies into service, “if in his opinion the public interest shall require.” The president was also authorized to appoint their commissioned officers (U.S. Statutes at Large, 1:558). TJ, Gallatin, and other Republicans strongly opposed the measure (Vol. 30:300-1n, 323, 353, 386, 471-3, 665). french aggressions in n. york: in August, Anthony Merry forwarded a report to Madison that French frigates at New York were guilty of impressing seamen. After investigating the allegation, Nathan Sanford, the U.S. attorney for New York, found no evidence to support
the charge, nor “any fact or circumstance which can justify a suspicion that such has been the case” (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 7:604, 608n; 8:100). accounts from morocco: on 29 Oct., the National Intelligencer reported that the U.S. squadron under Samuel Barron arrived at Gibraltar on 12 Aug., where the commodore received dispatches from James Simpson warning him of “the hostile disposition of the emperor of Morocco” against U.S. commerce and advising that several Moroccan warships were preparing for a cruise. Complying with a request from Simpson, Barron left two frigates under John Rodgers to observe the Moroccan vessels and learn their intentions. Rodgers concluded that any grounds for former suspicions had been removed and that the Moroccan vessels had no orders to capture American vessels. murders been committed at st. louis: see Pierre Chouteau to TJ, 12 Oct. 1 Preceding
three words interlined. interlined. 3 Remainder of paragraph inserted in margin. 2 Word
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VI. Robert Smith’s Remarks on the Draft [31 Oct. 1804]
“will be properly regarded”— Would it not be better to presume that your representations have been acted upon and therefore use the words—have been properly regarded. The language respecting the gun Boats is rather too strong—The truth is—two of the gun Boats have been built and equipped for service—Eight more are building and most of these will be launched in the Course of next Month/Novr The clause recommending a special appropriation for repairs is, I conceive, not necessary. The Estimate of the Navy Dept., prepared in the usual form, provides fully for this Object. As our political enemies and the enemies of the Eastern Branch have for some time been in the habit of stating that our frigates were fast going to decay in the Virginia mud, they would be busily employed in perverting your recommendation into a confirmation of their statements—They are not too good for such doings— Rt Smith RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 144:25097); undated; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 31 Oct. 1804 and “Message.”
VII. Gallatin’s Memorandum on Finances [ca. 1 Nov. 1804]
Facts Receipts last year—11½ millions Revenue accrued same term larger than that of preceding year Receipts of next year will, therefore, be at least equal to last. Ordinary expences, including 3,600,000 drs. principal debt redeemed have been less than1 receipts. Ordinary expences of next year, and an equal redemption of debt will therefore be paid out of receipts of the year Extraordinary expences were British convention 2,664,000 676
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American claims French do.
2,000,000 4,664,000 Tripolitan expedition for last year 350,000 5,014,000
Extraordinary resources were Balance in treasury near Mediterran. fund not yet recd. We have paid— British convent. 888,000 Tripolitan expedition 350,000 We have still near Medit. fund accrued 6 m. Chargeable with— MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25370); undated, but see Documents iv and viii; in Gallatin’s hand.
6,000,000
⎬ ⎭
⎫
1,238,000 5,000,000 375,000
⎬
⎫ ⎭
5,375,000 3,776,000 1,599,000
1 Preceding two words interlined in place of “equal to.”
VIII. Gallatin’s Draft of the Financial Section [1 Nov. 1804]
The State of our finances continues to fulfill our expectations. The balance of near six millions of dollars which was in the Treasury on the 1st of Octer. 1804, has enabled us, after paying the first instalment of 880,000 dollars due under the British convention (of January 8th 1802,) to advance, in anticipation of the Mediterranean fund, 350,000 dollars for the expedition agt. Tripoli (or, for the purpose contemplated by the Act establishing that fund) without recurring to the authority given to borrow on the credit of that fund; and there remain in the Treasury near five millions of dollars which as had been expected are still sufficient1 to discharge the balance due under the British convention and two millions of dollars on account of the American claims assumed in part of the purchase money of Louisiana by the French convention of April 30th 1803 Eleven and an half millions of dollars have been paid in the Treasury 2 in the course of the year ending on the 30th of Septer. last; and it is already ascertained that the revenue accrued during the same term (exceeds3 that sum) or, exceeds that of the preceding year. 677
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The amount of debt paid during the same year is about 3,600,000 dollars exclusive of interest, which payment with those of the two preceding years have extinguished more than twelve millions of principal within that period and by an equivalent diminution of interest, render already sensible the effect of the growing sum yearly applicable to the discharge of principal. RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25391); undated; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 1 Nov. and “Message. finance” and so recorded in SJL.
1 Gallatin first wrote “which are sufficient” before altering the passage to read as above. 2 Above the preceding four words Gallatin interlined “received.” 3 Gallatin first wrote “considerably exceeds.”
IX. Gallatin’s Revised Draft of the Financial Section [on or after 1 Nov. 1804]
The state of our finances continues to fulfill our expectations. Eleven & an half millions of Dollars, received in the course of the year ending on the 30th of Septer. last, have enabled us, after meeting all the ordinary expences of the year, to discharge more than1 3,600,000 dollars of the public debt, exclusive of interest. This payment with those of the two preceding years has extinguished upwards of twelve millions of principal within that period; and, by an equivalent diminution of interest, renders already sensible the effect of the growing sum, yearly applicable to the discharge of the principal. It is also ascertained that the revenue accrued during the last year exceeds that of the preceding year;2 and the probable receipts of the ensuing year may safely be relied on as sufficient, with the sum already in the treasury, to meet all the current demands of the year, to discharge upwards of 3 three millions and an half of the engagements incurred under the British and French conventions, and to progress in the redemption4 of the funded debt as rapidly as had been contemplated. MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25390); undated, but after Document viii and before Document x; in Gallatin’s hand with alterations by TJ (see notes 2-4 below). 1 Gallatin interlined “nearly” above the preceding two words.
2 TJ altered the passage to read “during last year exceeds that of the preceding.” 3 Word interlined by TJ; Gallatin interlined “upwards” in place of canceled “more than,” which followed canceled “near.” 4 TJ altered the passage to read “to advance in the further redemption.”
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X. Draft of the Financial Section and Conclusion [on or before 8 Nov. 1804]
The state of our finances continues to fulfill our expectations. eleven millions & an half of Dollars recieved1 in the course of the year ending on the 30th. of Sep. last, have enabled us, after meeting all the ordinary expences of the year to pay 3,600,000. Dollars of the principal of the public debt.2 this paiment, with those of the two preceding years, has extinguished upwards of twelve millions of principal and a greater sum of interest3 within that period; and, by a proportionate diminution of interest, renders already sensible the effect of the growing sum yearly applicable to the discharge of principal. It is also ascertained that the revenue accrued during last year exceeds that of the preceding; and the probable reciepts of the ensuing year may safely be relied on as sufficient, with the sum already in the treasury, to meet all the current demands of the year, to discharge upwards of three millions & an half of the engagements incurred under the British & French conventions, and to advance in the further redemption of the funded debt as rapidly as had been contemplated. These, fellow citizens, are the principal matters which I have thought it necessary at this time to communicate for your consideration & attention. some others will be laid before you in the course of the session. but in the discharge of the great duties confided to you by our country, you will take a broader view of the field of legislation. Whether the great interests of agriculture, manufactures, commerce or navigation, can, within the pale of your constitutional powers4 be aided in any of their relations? whether laws are provided in all cases where they are wanting? whether those provided are exactly what they should5 be? whether any abuses take place in their administration or in that of the public revenues? whether the organisation of the public agents, or of the public force is perfect in all it’s parts? in fine, Whether any thing can be done to advance the general good? are questions within the limits of your functions, which will necessarily occupy your attention. in these & all other matters which you in your wisdom may propose for the good of our country, you may count with assurance on my hearty cooperation & faithful execution. Th: Jefferson Nov. 8. 1804. 679
ANN UAL MESSAGE TO CONGRESS PoC (DLC); on verso of final page of Document i. 1 TJ
here canceled “into.” first wrote “to pay nearly eight millions of the public debt, principal & interest” before altering the passage to read as above. 2 TJ
3 Preceding six words interlined. 4 TJ first wrote “within the pale of the constitution” before altering the passage to read as above. 5 Word interlined in place of “ought to.”
XI. Annual Message to Congress To The Senate and House of Representatives of the US. To a people Fellow Citizens, who sincerely desire the happiness & prosperity of other nations, To those who justly calculate that their own well-being is advanced by that of the nations with which they have intercourse, it will be a satisfaction to observe, that the war, which was lighted up in Europe a little before our last meeting, has not yet extended its flames to other nations, nor been marked by the calamities which sometimes stain the footsteps of war.1 The irregularities too on the Ocean, which generally harrass the commerce of neutral nations, have, in distant parts, disturbed ours less than on former Occasions. But, in the American seas, they have been greater from peculiar causes; & even within our harbors and Jurisdiction, infringements on the authority of the Laws have been committed which have called for serious attention. The friendly conduct of the governments, from whose Officers & Subjects these acts have proceeded, in other respects, and in places more under their Observation & control, gives us confidence, that our Representations on this subject will have been properly regarded. § While noticing the irregularities committed on the Ocean by others, those on our own part should not be omitted, nor left unprovided for. Complaints have been receiv’d that persons residing within the US, have taken on themselves to arm Merchant vessels & to force a commerce into certain ports & countries in defiance of the laws of those countries. that individuals should undertake to wage private war, independantly of the authority of their country, cannot be permitted in a well orderd society. its tendency to produce aggression on the laws and rights of other nations, & to endanger the peace of our own, is so obvious that I doubt not you will adopt measures for restraining it effectually in future.2 § Soon after the passage of the act of the last session, authorising the establishment of a district & port of entry on the waters of the Mobile, we 680
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learnt that its object was misunderstood on the part of Spain. candid explanations were immediately given, and assurances that, reserving our claims in that quarter as a subject of discussion and arrangement with Spain, no act was meditated in the meantime inconsistent with the peace and friendship existing between the two nations; and that conformably to these intentions would be the execution of the law. That government however had thought proper to suspend the ratification of the convention of 1802. but the explanations, which would reach them soon after, & still more the confirmation of them by the tenor of the instrument establishing the port & district, may reasonably be expected to replace them in the dispositions and views of the whole subject, which originally dictated the convention. § I have the satisfaction to inform you that the objections which had been urged by that government, against the validity of our title to the country of Louisiana, have been withdrawn; its exact limits however still remaining to be settled between us. and to this is to be added, that, having prepared and deliverd the stock created in execution of the convention of paris of April 30th 1803, in consideration of the cession of that country, we have receiv’d from the government of France an acknowledgement in due form of the fulfilment of that stipulation. § With the nations of Europe, in general, our friendship & intercourse are undisturbed; & from the governments of the Belligerent powers especially we continue to receive those friendly manifestations, which are justly due to an honest neutrality, & to such good offices consistent with that as we have opportunities of rendering; § The activity and success of the small force employ’d in the Mediteranean in the early part of the present year, the reinforcement sent into that sea, & the energy of the Officers having command in the several vessels, will I trust, by the sufferings of war, reduce the Barbarians of Tripoli to the desire of peace on proper terms. great injury however ensues, to ourselves as well as to others interested, from the distance to which prizes must be brought for adjudication, & from the impracticability of bringing hither such as are not sea-worthy— § The Bey of Tunis having made requisitions unauthorised by our Treaty, Their rejection has produced from him some expressions of discontent. but to those who expect us to calculate whether a compliance with unjust demands will not cost us less than a war, we must leave as a question of calculation for them also whether to retire from unjust demands will not cost them less than a war. we can do to each other very sensible injuries by war. But the mutual advantages of peace make that the best interest of both. § peace and intercourse with the other powers on the same coast continue on the footing on which 681
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they are establishd by Treaty.—§ In pursuance of the act providing for the temporary government of Louisiana, the necessary Officers for the territory of Orleans were appointed in due time to commence the exercise of their functions on the 1st day of October. The distance however of some of them & indispensible previous arrangements, may have retarded its commencement, in some of its parts. the form of government thus provided having been consider’d but as temporary, & open to such future improvements as further information of the circumstances of our Brethren there might suggest, it will of course be subject to your consideration. In the district of Louisiana it has been thought best to adopt the division into subordinate Districts which had been establish’d under its former government. these, being five in number, a commanding Officer has been appointed to each, according to the provisions of the law &, so soon as they can be at their stations, that district will also be in its due state of Organisation. in the mean time their places are supplied by the Officers before commanding there; & the functions of the governor & Judges of Indiana having commenced, the government, we presume, is proceeding in its new form. The lead mines in that territory 3 offer so rich a supply of that metal as to merit attention. The report now communicated, will inform you of their state & of the necessity of immediate enquiry into their occupation and Titles. § With the Indian tribes establishd within our newly acquired limits, I have deemed it necessary to open conferences, for the purpose of establishing a good understanding & neighbourly relations between us. so far as we have yet learn’d we have reason to beleive that their dispositions are generally favorable & friendly. and, with these dispositions on their part, we have in our own hands means which cannot fail us for preserving their peace & friendship. by pursuing an uniform course of justice towards them, by aiding them in all the improvements which may better their condition, & especially by establishing a commerce on terms which shall be advantageous to them, & only not losing to us, & so regulated, as that no incendiaries of our own, or any other nation, may be permitted to disturb the natural effects of our just and friendly Offices, we may render ourselves so necessary to their comfort & prosperity, that the protection of our Citizens from their disorderly members will become their interest & their voluntary care. Instead therefore of an augmentation of military force, proportion’d to our extension of frontier, I propose a moderate enlargement of the Capital employ’d in that commerce, as a more effectual, economical, and humane instrument for preserving peace and good neighbourhood with them. § On this side the Missisipi an important relinquishment of native title has been 682
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Receiv’d from the Delawares. That Tribe, desiring to extinguish in their people the spirit of hunting, and to convert superfluous lands into the means of improving what they retain, have ceded to us all the country between the Wabash and Ohio, south of, and including the Road from the Rapids towards Vincennes; for which they are to Receive, annuities in animals and implements for agriculture & in other necessaries. This acquisition is important, not only for its extent & fertility, but as, fronting 300 miles on the Ohio, & near half that on the Wabash, the produce of the settled country descending those Rivers, will not longer pass in review of the Indian frontier, but in a small portion; &, with the cession heretofore made by the Kaskaskias, nearly consolidates our possessions north of the Ohio, in a very respectable breadth from Lake Erie to the Missisipi. The Piankishaws, having some claim to the country ceded by the Delawares, it has been thought best to quiet that by fair purchase also. so soon as the Treaties on this subject shall have Receivd their Constitutional sanctions they shall be laid before both houses. § The act of congress of Feb. 28. 1803 for building and employing a number of gun boats is now in a course of execution, to the extent there provided for. The obstacle to Naval enterprise which vessels of this construction offer for our sea port Towns, their utility towards supporting, within our waters, the authority of the Laws, the promptness with which they will be manned by the seamen & militia of the place, in the moment they are wanting, the facility of their assembling from different parts of the coast, to any point where they are required in greater force than ordinary, the economy of their maintenance & preservation from decay, when not in actual service, & the competence of our finances to this defensive provision, without any new burthen, are considerations which will have due weight with Congress in deciding on the expediency of adding to their number, from year to year, as experience shall test their utility, until all our important harbors, by these and auxiliary means, shall be secured against insult and opposition to the Laws—. § No circumstance has arisen since your last session which calls for any augmentation of our regular Military force. should any improvement occur in the Militia system, that will be always seasonable. § Accounts of the Receipts & expenditures of the last year, with estimates for the ensuing one, will, as usual, be laid before you. § The state of our Finances continues to fulfil our expectations. Eleven Millions & an half, Receivd in the course of the last year ending on the 30th of September last, have enabled us, after meeting all the ordinary expences of the year, to pay 3,600,000 Dollars of the principal of the public debt.4 This paiment, with those of the two preceding years, has extinguished 683
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upwards of Twelve millions of principal, & a greater sum of Interest, within that period; &, by a proportionate diminution of Interest, renders already sensible the effect of the growing sum yearly applicable to the discharge of the principal. § It is also ascertain’d that the Revenue accrued during the last year exceeds that of the preceding; and the probable receipts of the ensuing year may safely be relied on as sufficient, with the sum already in the Treasury, to meet all the current demands of the year; to discharge upwards of Three millions and an half of the engagements incurred under the British & French conventions, & to advance, in the further redemption of the funded debt as rapidly as had been contemplated.5 These, Fellow Citizens, are the principal matters which I have thought it necessary, at this time, to communicate for your consideration & attention. Some others will be laid before you in the course of the session. but, in the discharge of the great duties confided to you by our country, you will take a broader view of the field of Legislation. whether the great interests of agriculture, manufactures, commerce, or navigation, can, within the pale of your constitutional powers, be aided in any of their relations? whether laws are provided in all cases where they are wanting? whether those provided are exactly what they should be? whether any abuses take place in their administration, or in that of the public Revenues? whether the Organisation of the public agents, or of the public force, is perfect in all its parts? In fine whether any thing can be done to advance the general good? are questions within the limits of your functions, which will necessarily occupy your attention. In these & all other matters, which you in your wisdom may propose for the good of our country, you may count with assurance on my hearty cooperation, and faithful execution— Th: Jefferson Nov. 8. 1804. §. these marks denote the divisions of paragraphs. MS (DNA: RG 46, LPPM, 8th Cong., 2d sess.); in William A. Burwell’s hand with emendations by TJ, not shown, to correct copying errors; paragraph marks (§) inserted by TJ; signed, dated, and postscript by TJ; endorsed by a Senate clerk. MS (DNA: RG 233, PM, 8th Cong., 2d sess.); in a clerk’s hand with one emendation by TJ, not shown, to correct a copying error; signed and dated by TJ; endorsed by House clerks. Recorded in SJL with notation “general message.” Enclosures: (1) Extract of a letter from Pedro Cevallos to Charles Pinckney, 10
Feb., in Spanish with translation, informing the U.S. minister that the king of Spain has ceased his opposition to the acquisition of Louisiana by the United States (Tr in DNA: RG 233, PM; Tr in DNA: RG 46, EPFR). (2) Carlos Martínez de Irujo to Madison, 15 May, extract in Spanish with translation, informing the secretary of state of this change of policy by the king (Tr in DNA: RG 233, PM). (3) Proclamation Establishing the District of Mobile, 30 May (Vol. 43:51314). (4) Amos Stoddard to TJ, 16 June, enclosing a description by Moses Austin
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8 NOVEMBER 1804 of lead mines in upper Louisiana (same, 609-10). William A. Burwell presented the signed copies of the message and its accompanying documents to the Senate and the House of Representatives on 8 Nov. The House referred them to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union, while the Senate ordered them to be printed (jhr, 5:7-10; js, 3:412-15). The message and enclosures were published by William Duane as Message From the President of the United States to Both Houses of Congress. 8th November, 1804 (Washington, D.C., 1804). 1 Canceled here in MS in RG 233: “and which so often desolates the finest portions of the earth.” 2 The preceding passage, beginning “While noticing,” is the revised version of a paragraph that TJ inserted in the margin of Document i. The orginal version, also in the margin of that manu-
script, reads: “While noticing the irregularities committed on the ocean by others, those by our own citizens are not to be omitted. private individuals, residing within the US. have taken on themselves to arm merchant vessels & to force a commerce into certain ports & countries in defiance of the laws of those countries. the right of waging private war thus assumed by individuals, independently of the authority of their country, is such a violation of the laws of social order, such an aggression on the rights of other nations, & so dangerous to the peace of our own, as to call for the repression of the law under severe and effectual forms: and with this view it is recommended to the early attention of the legislature.” 3 MS in RG 233: “district.” In the revision of Document i, TJ used “territory.” 4 MS in RG 233: “to pay upwards of 3.600,000 dollars of the public debt, exclusive of interest.” 5 MS in RG 233 has a paragraph break here.
From Caldcleugh & Thomas His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esquire, Philadelphia Novr. 6. 1804 Bot. of Caldcleugh & Thomas ⎫ 6 Patent Lamps Semi vase Transparent green ⎪ ⎬ Japanned & Gilt with brass glass holders ⎪ & 6 glasses & 3 dozen wicks @ 7.50 ⎭ 45.00 ½ doz. extra Glasses for ditto 2.50 1.25 3 doz. do. wicks 25 75 Box 25 $47.25 Sir Philaia. Novr. 8. 1804 The above were shipped the 6th. Inst. agreeably to Bill of Loading enclosed, we hope they will arrive safe & to your satisfaction, Lamps of a similar form to the above, of the usual workmanship; we sell at $6,00$ but on Account of the additional workmanship in the Japanning & gilding, those sent, cannot be afforded at less than they are charged— We enclose a Sheet containing a Sketch of 3 patterns of the pedestal fountain Lamps, with a reference to their prices & constructions, 685
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& to some others which are not sketched—should they meet your approbation, be pleased to drop us a line on the subject— We are Sir with respect Yr. obdt. Servts. Caldcleugh & Thomas RC (MHi); at foot of text: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esquire City of Washington”; endorsed by TJ as received on 10 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures not found.
From Albert Gallatin [8 Nov. 1804]
The account for a guard has been allowed: if the transportation of forging materials was necessary for conviction, the six dollars should be paid by the Marshal; but the three large items in favour of Underwood, Allen & Brookes are altogether inadmissible. They are gratuities for certain meritorious conduct; which, if at all partly payable by the United States, ought to have been voted in the first instance by them. The State of Virga. acted either on their own account, or in behalf of the United States; if the first, there is no claim—if the second, she had no authority to give money not strictly due—The President may nevertheless direct the money to be paid from the contingent fund; but it does not seem advisable. The mode usually adopted by St[. . .] claims which could not be settled at the Treasury has been to instruct their [. . .] them before Congress. RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25377); undated; in Gallatin’s hand; two words written partially off the edge of the paper; endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 8 Nov. and “Virginia applicns” and so recorded in SJL.
From Rodominick H. Gilmer Sir Fort St. Stevens November 8th, 1804 from the Solicitations & perswaisions of many Respectable Friends and activated by an [ear]nest Zeal fro the Wellfair of the United states of america, and Especially that part in which I live, And strickly adhearing to the advice of those whose concell I respect, I am [in]duced to write to you this letter. This morning a number of Gentlemen Waited on me with a Petition (The one to you enclosed) which was drawn up with out my Knoledge, They earnestley Requested that I should acquise in what they had done. Among those Gentlemen wear Coll. John Collir presiding Justice of our county court, and Chief Jus 686
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tice of the Orphans court, John McGrew Esqr, Ranson Harwell Esqr. James Calleir Esqr. &, Member to the house of Representatives, Thomas Bassetts Esqr, Jessee Womack Esqr.—Capt. William McGrew & John F McGrew a member of the Legislative Commee of the Mississipipi Territory—In order to Gratify the wishes of those people I have con[sen]ted to serve them as Requested in thire petition if it meets your approbation, from a stranger (as I am to you) some Explenations might be necesary, I perfectly Recollect you, though perhaps you do not recollect me, I was Introducd to you by a Mr Grant of Abamarle who maried a near Relation of mine, I saw you several times while I lived at Doctor Gilmers near the Town of Charlottesville, as to my political principles time will discover This much I can say, I anxeously Solicited that happy period, when you ascended the presidential Chair, and have warmly and Zealously supported your administration, (with my feeble efforts) ever since. But it is deferent indeed, in three days to please [. . .] kind which in part was the only Reason I nev[er soli]cited an appointment, and the sufferages of the [. . .] alone has inclined me to come forward in the [present] instance. I am with grate Esteem your servant freind and well wisher. R. H. Gilmer RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); torn; at foot of text: “T. Jefferson President of the United stats of America”; endorsed by TJ as received 10 Dec. and “to be judge at Tombigby” and so recorded in SJL. Rodominick H. Gilmer (d. 1821), originally from Virginia, was an attorney who moved to St. Stephens and practiced law in Washington County, Mississippi Territory. He never received the appointment
to succeed Ephraim Kirby as territorial judge. Arraigned on charges of perjury but not prosecuted, Gilmer had a checkered career that ended tragically when he shot federal district attorney William Crawford before dying by suicide (Transactions of the Alabama Historical Society, 3 [1899]: 213, 225-6; Madison, Papers, Pres. Ser., 4:220-2; Terr. Papers, 6:278; John Callier to TJ, 17 Dec.).
e n c l o s u r e
Memorial from Washington County, Mississippi Territory To the President of the United States of America, We Your Petitioners whose names are under writen respectfully represent, That being divided from the populous part of the united states of America, and in fact being but a recent acquisition, we are not surprised altho our Situation has not appeared an object of the highest magnitude to Government, Yet we trust that this our petition will not Escape the guardian attention of the president of the United States of america. And that the Inhabitants of Tombighee & Tensaw may once say that there petition was heard, for such
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8 NOVEMBER 1804 have been the operation of things, that the Inhabitants of Tombigbee & Tensaw have not enjoyed the Common priviledges Secured by the constitution of the United States of America to every free and republican Citizen, for since the Orgenzation of the courts of Justice in the Mississippi Territory, the Judges of the Superior Court (who alone had the power of Bailing Granting writs of Habias Corpus &) have resided at natchez, untill the Honourable the representitives of the United States of America in Congress assembled took up the Subject and an aditional Judge was appointed to reside in the County of Washington near the Tombigbee Settlement, In persuance of which Colo. E. Kirby was appointed Judge in and over our district and shortly afterwards died. Now as we are the people who are to be affected by the appointed of a Judge in our district, who in all matters of law desided almost with out controle, We beg leave to recommend to our much beloved president Rodominick, H. Gilmer a professional Law carracter that has for some time resided in our destrict and as we believe an up right and impartial man, and one firmly attached to the government of the United States, and to the present Administration, he is naturlized to the Climate of our country he is a man of a family and resides among us, and if this our petition should meet the approbation of the president of the united states, as we flatter our Selves it will, we pray that his Commission be sent on as soon as possable, as there are a number of person confined in Jail at the expence of our county and have been for upwards of a year and your petitioners in duty bound will ever pray & MS (DNA: RG 59, LAR); undated; in a clerk’s hand, signed by John Callier and 55 others. MS (same); undated; signed by Callier and 61 others; printed in Terr.
Papers, 5:353-5. For the transmittal of copies of this memorial, see also John Callier and Ranson Harwell to TJ, 27 Nov., and Callier to TJ, 17 Dec.
List of Interim Appointments [8 Nov. 1804]
List of appointments made by the President of the United States, subsequent to the rising of the Senate in March 1804 John Armstrong Esq. Minister Plenipotentiary to France. James Monroe Esq. Minister Extray. and Plenipotentiary Singly, to the Court of Spain, for the same purpose that Charles Pinckney Esqr. was heretofore united with him, and submitted to, and approved by the Senate. Ephraim Kirby, of Connecticut, an additional Judge for the Mississippi Territory. Commission dated 6th Apl last Michael Jones, of Ohio, Register of the Land office at Kaskaskias Commission dated 9th. April. John Badollet, of Pennsa. Register of Do at Vincennes—Same date. David Mereweather, of Georgia, Commissioner to treat with the Creek Nation of Indians—23 Apl. 688
8 NOVEMBER 1804 ⎫ Commissioners to treat with the Return Jonathan Meigs and ⎬ Daniel Smith both of Tennessee ⎭ Cherokee nation. 23 Apl.1 George Hoffman, of Ohio, Register of the Land office at Detroit. First of June— William Few, of New York, Commissioner of Loans for that State. 29 May— Thomas Rutter, of Maryland, Marshal for Maryland District. Same date. Daniel Humphreys, of New Hampshire, Attorney for that District. Tomson J. Skinner, of Massachusetts, Commissioner of Loans for Massachusetts—Same date John Gibson, of Indiana,2 Secretary for the Indiana Territory Dated 14 May— Samuel Hamilton, Samuel N ⎪⎫ Justices of the Peace for the ⎬ Smallwood and Robert County of Washingn & District ⎪ ⎭ Alexander Junr.— of Columbia. Wm. C. C. Claiborne of the Misipi terry. Governor of the Territory of Orleans—from 30th of Septr. James Brown of Kentucky Secretary of the Territory of Orleans— from 30 of Septr. Dominic A. Hall of S.C. Judge of the District Court in and for the Orleans District—from 30 Septr. Ephraim Kirby of Con. Three Judges of the Superior Court for John B. Prevost of N.Y. the Territory of Orleans—from the Same period. Marshal for the Orleans District. from Same period. Mahlone Dickerson of Pensva. Attorney for the Orleans District— from the Same period— Harry Toulman of Kentucky one of the Judges in and over the Mississippi Territory—the date is also blank. Isaac Neufville, of South Carolina, Commissioner of Loans for that State—dated 10th Septr Edward Hall, of Maryland, Commissioner of Loans for Maryland dated 4th Octr— Thomas Fitzpatrick of S. Carolina, Register of the Land office in the County of Adams in the Mississippi Territory for the Lands lying West of Pearl River. dated 5 Octr. Walter Jones Junr. Attorney for the District of Columbia dated 8th Octr. Joseph Chambers, of the Missisi. Terry. Register of the Land office in the County of Washington in the Mississippi Terry. for the Lands lying East of Pearl River. dated 28 March last.
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Frederick Bates, of the Indiana Terry. Receiver of public Monies for Lands of the United States at Detroit—dated 5 Octr. Elijah Backus, of Ohio, Receiver of public monies for Lands at Kaskaskia. dated 5th Octr. Harry Toulmin, of Kentucky, Receiver of public monies for Lands at Hobuhentoopa or St Stephens—dated 5 Octr. Nathaniel Ewing, of Pennsa Receiver of public monies for Lands of the US at Vincennes dated 12th of Octr. William Bache of Pennsa. Surveyor for the Port of Philada. and Inspector of the Revenue for Same—2d April Thomas C. Ferebee, of North Carolina, Surveyor and Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of Indian Town—Sixth April William Fisher, of Virginia, Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of South Quay. 7th April he was nominated to the Senate Mar. 22. & approved. Wilson Carey Nicholas, of Virginia Collector for the District of Norfolk and Portsmouth 2d May— Joshua Prentiss of Massacts Surveyor and Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of Marblehead 29 May— Robert Carter Nicholas of Kentucky, Surveyor & Inspector for the Port of Orleans—29 May— William G. Garland, of Louisiana, Naval Officer for the Port of New Orleans.—29 May— Edmund P. Gaines—Collector for the District of Mobille and Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of fort Stoddart—3 July— John Thibaut of Orleans Surveyor and Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of Bayou St John. 6th July— John Brent, of Maryland, Collector for the District of Nanjemoy, and Inspector of the Revenue for the same—6 July— Philip Green of Ohio, Collector for the District of Marietta and Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of Marietta 8 Augt David Broadie, of Virginia, Collector for the District of Hampton and Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of Hampton—4 Octr— Edmund Key, of Maryland, Surveyor and Inspector of the Revenue for the Port of Llewellensburg—dated 4th of Octr. MS (DNA: RG 59, LAR); undated; in a clerk’s hand; additions by TJ in ink shown in italics; notations by TJ in pencil in margin indicating the location of each appointment by territory or state, most of which were subsequently struck through in ink, and braces and brackets he used to mark names that were not in-
cluded in his message to the Senate on 9 Nov. are not shown; an additional notation by him in pencil is noted below; endorsed by TJ: “renominations Nov. 8. 04.” TJ sent many of these names to the senate on 9 Nov. (first message of that
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9 NOVEMBER 1804 date). He sent the Orleans Territory appointments to the Senate on 30 Nov. On 26 Sep., Joseph Barnes, a Connecticut lawyer residing in Philadelphia, wrote to Gallatin to offer his services as attorney for Orleans Territory, explaining that his employer, Alexander J. Dallas, would answer any questions as to his “character and qualifications” (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ:
“Barnes Joseph to mr Gallatin to be atty for Orleans”). 1 In the margin next to Meigs’s and Smith’s names TJ wrote in pencil: “need not given in unless it should not be [. . .] before end of session.” 2 Word interlined by TJ in place of “Pennsa.”
From James Yard Sir! Philadelphia 8 Novemr 1804 By desire of Mr J. E. Bollman of New York, I have the honor to inclose Bill of Lading for Twenty four Cases of Hungary Wine, shipped on board the Sloop Patty Captn Thomas Newton bound to the City of Washington—I hope they will arrive safe and in good order.— With great respect I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedt servt. James Yard RC (DLC); at foot of text: “His Excellency The President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure not found.
James Yard (1760-1835), a Philadelphia merchant, served as the U.S. consul at St. Croix from 1791 to 1792 (Washington, Papers, Rev. War Ser., 22:97-8n; Vol. 19:314, 316n; Vol. 24:545; Vol. 39:136-7).
To Henry Dearborn Th:J. to Genl. Dearborne Nov. 9. 04 I think Colo. Hawkins should be made to understand that we act between the Indians only as friends and mediators; but not as parties in their disputes. that certainly we should not go to war against either party in behalf of the other. the Creek nation is merely a collection of the remains of many others. it is probable the division among the parts of the nation have their foundation in a difference of origin, language, manners &c. if they chuse to break into two, they have a right to do so, & we none to controul them, or intermeddle with their interior government. Colo. Hawkins should therefore withdraw from his present commitment as well as he can. indeed it seems as if the lower towns would yield. the right we have acquired of preventing the Indians on this side the Missisipi from crossing that river, is a 691
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lever which we may use against them with immense effect. we should risk a war if necessary to maintain that right, but not to controul their internal government. PoC (DLC). The administration received information from Benjamin hawkins about conflicts among the Creeks. Angered by the refusal of Creeks from the lower towns to agree to the terms of a proposed treaty and to embrace Euro-American habits, Hawkins had apparently suggested that force might be necessary to resolve the
dispute. In a letter of 10 Nov. to Hawkins, Dearborn conveyed TJ’s views and welcomed a visit from more sympathetic members of the nation (DNA: RG 75, LSIA; Thomas Foster, ed., The Collected Works of Benjamin Hawkins, 1796-1810 [Tuscaloosa, Ala., 2003], 441-6; Florette Henri, The Southern Indians and Benjamin Hawkins, 1796-1816 [Norman, Okla., 1986], 245-8).
From Henry Dearborn Sir War Department Nov. 9th. 1804 I have the honor herewith to transmit you a list of Appointments in the Army of the United States, during the last recess of Congress Accept Sir, the assurances of my high respect and consideration H Dearborn RC (DLC); at foot of text: “President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the War Department on 9 Nov. and “Nomns” and so recorded in SJL. FC (Lb in DNA: RG 107, LSP).
e n c l o s u r e
Army Appointments List of Appointments in the Army of the United States during the last recess of Congress. Hannibal M Allen of Vermont 2d Lieut. of Artillery to take rank from the 27th June 1804. James S Smith of New Jersey 2d Lieut. of Artillery to take rank from the 27th June 1804. Joseph Kimball of New Hampshire 2d Lieut of Artillery to take rank from the 27th June 1804. John Brownson of Vermont Ensign 1st Regt. Infantry to take rank from the 27th June 1804. Johnson Magowers of Kentucky Ensign 1st Regt. Infantry to take rank from the 27th June 1804. Benjamin Marshall of Massachusetts Ensn 1 Regt. Infantry to take rank from the 27th June 1804 Oliver H. Spencer of New Orleans Surgeon to take rank from the 9th October 1804.
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9 NOVEMBER 1804 Abraham Edwards of New Jersey Surgeons Mate to take rank from the 8th June 1804. War Department Nov. 9th. 1804. MS (DLC). FC (Lb in DNA: RG 107, LSP).
TJ sent the list of interim army appointments to the Senate on 13 Nov.
From William Dunbar Dear Sir Post of Washita 9th. Novr. 1804 After a voyage of trouble and retardment we are at last arrived at this place: Doctor Hunter’s boat constructed after his chinese model has proved to be an unprofitable Vessel, being extremely heavy & making bad headway against the Current; her rate of going is not one half of what it ought to be for an expedition of the nature on which we are engaged; we have made a great sacrifize of time in getting to this post, & in order that we may retrieve as much as possible our past loss, we are now changing our boat for one which is handsomely formed for advancing against the Current, and is built flat & light, so as to draw as little water as possible, which probably will not exceed 12 inches, whereas our first bark exceeded double that depth; for the use of this boat we are obliged to pay 1¼ dol: pr. day, but the rapidity with which we expect to advance will prove an ample compensation; having reason to hope that exclusive of the frequent detentions upon shallows, rocks, gravel-bars &c we shall now advance with double our former velocity. The Common reckoning makes this post from the mouth of the red river about 80 leagues, some call it more, but by our measure by Log and time makes it only 196 miles & 256 perches. From hence to the hot springs is computed to be 150 leagues. we shall hope to find this distance as much shortened by our measurement as the first part of the Voyage; in which case we may possibly arrive near to our destination about the end of this month; we take a guide or Pilot here to whom we shall pay 1 dol: pr. day. Hitherto we have not seen any thing interesting which is worthy of being particularly communicated to you at this moment, altho’ I have got to the 36th. quarto page of my Journal exclusive of the Courses & distances of the river with astronomical observations; those I could have wished to have copied & forwarded, but am affraid time will not permit; it has been so constantly cloudy here since our arival, that I have not been able to make a lunar observation for the determination of the Longitude, but I had a good meridian Altitude of the Sun to 693
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fix the Latitude: the Longitude may for the present be estimated with very little error at 92° west of Greenwich—The Latitudes of the most remarkable points of this river are as follows. Mouth of Red river 31° 1′—Mouth of Black river 31° 15′ 48″—mouth of Washita river 31° 37′ 57″—Post of Washita 32° 29′ 57″—the situation of Fort Miro is about 350 yards higher on the river (north) & appears to be the private property of the former Civil Commandant under the Spanish Government. We shall I hope soon be able to make satisfactory lunar observations for the ascertainment of the Longitude, if not at this place, in its neighbourhood; I have a most excellent instrument for this purpose, being a Circle of reflection supported upon a pedestal, which last facilitates greatly correct observations on land; this is wanting to the Sextant brought by Doctor Hunter, we have been endeavouring to supply the want by a wooden Support—The Doctor has never been in the habit of using instruments of that nature, otherwise his assistance in the lunar observation would be of great advantage, by taking the moon’s altitude, at the same instant that the moon’s distance is taken from the Sun or Star; at present we must depend solely upon calculation of the altitude of the two bodies regulated by the time kept by the Watch; probably a little practize will render us all a little more perfect. With the highest consideration and attachment I have the honor to be Your most humble and obedient Servant William Dunbar RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 1 Jan. 1805 and so recorded in SJL.
From Albert Gallatin [9 Nov. 1804]
The counterfeiting of notes of the Bank of the United States, or of coins of the sd. States, are equally by the Statute offences against the United States; but I believe that base coining of foreign coins is an offence only against the State. At all events, the proper course seems to be to transmit the affidavit to the district attorney for North Carolina; which, if approved by the President, may be done by 1 the Secretary of the Treasury RC (DLC: TJ Papers, 146:25376); undated; in Gallatin’s hand; unrelated endorsement by Gallatin on verso: “Surveying departmt. Light house estabt.”;
endorsed by TJ as received from the Treasury Department on 9 Nov. and “Counterfiets & Coiners” and so recorded in SJL.
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9 NOVEMBER 1804 district attorney for north carolina: Benjamin Woods (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 2:42).
1 Gallatin here canceled “either.”
From William Keteltas Dr Sir New York Novr. 9h. 1804 By the Death of Mr. Goetihus, and the Resignation of Mr. Murray, the Consulate at Genoa, and at Glasgow Are become Vacant. An appointment to fill Either, would Confer a favour to be Remembered with Gratitude, and afford Relief to a family Who are great sufferers in the Cause of freedom and firmly attatched to Your administration. Should It be thought necessary to forward Recommendations from this State I flatter myself I Can procure the most Satisfactory. I Remain with the Highest Consideration Wm Keteltas RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr. President of the United States &c. &c. &c.”; endorsed by TJ as received 13 Nov. and “to be Consul at Genoa or Glasgow.” Recorded in SJL as received 12 Nov. On 26 Feb. 1804, John J. murray, the United States consul at Glasgow since 1801, wrote to Madison requesting permission to resign his post, citing the disagreeable climate of Scotland and the un-
familiar manners of its people (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 6:514-5; Vol. 33:331, 332n). In May 1803, TJ signed a commission for John M. Goetschius to the United States consulate at genoa. American newspapers in November 1804 reported Goetschius’s death in September from “the prevailing fever” in Cadiz (New York Mercantile Advertiser, 9 Nov.; Boston Repertory, 16 Nov.; Vol. 40:458n).
From Benjamin H. Latrobe Dear Sir Novr. 9h. 1804, Wilmington I arrived at this place from our works on the Canal yesterday, having daily attended at the postroad from the 3rd of Novr. to the 5th. in hopes that I should have been able to procure a passage to Washington. But the stages were so crouded with the Members going to Congress that I could not get a seat, and on the 5th. both lines were preengaged for three days to come. It was then too late to go to Washington previously to the next meeting of our board on the 20h.— On my return hither yesterday I was mortified to see the enclosed written on the 24h. of Octr. on my table where I had left it to be taken to the post office.—I have also a letter from our Roller of which the following is a Copy. 695
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“I have applied to Jones & Howell, and am informed that the Iron which they sent to the President U.S. was connected in the usual way thus. from your letter I understand that it must be welded in this manner and then bent down. As I am fearfull of some mistake, send me a pattern in paper. (I did send him the pattern, which he must have dropt since opening the letter). We are now rolling Iron for the purpose, and of course can finish it without delay.” One of the partners having been here yesterday, I made another pattern which I sent up by him, & he will omit nothing to procure proper information from Jones & Howell & to have the business done satisfactorily.—He says that all the Iron will be packed in three weeks, ready to be put on board.— I shall go to Philadelphia in the course of a day or two after the 20th. & leave Mrs L. with her father while I go to Washington. I will then select the stoves you wish to be sent you, with great pleasure. This is the section of the Rittenhouse Stove, if I mistake not. By a paragraph in the Aurora, I observe that the management of the public buildings at Washington has been made the subject of animadversion in the Federalist.—I have not seen the article, but from the paper in which it has appeared, it cannot but operate as praise.— This letter is the polygraphic copy with the short quill, by a machine made for me about three months ago. The quill is almost worn out—but the whole letter has been written without touch[ing] the adjusting screw a proof that the machine [can] be made to work very correctly.—along the left end of the sheet on this side there has been a remarkable sinking (boucle)—which has occasioned blanks. I am with the sincerest respect Yrs faithfully B Henry Latrobe RC (DLC); torn; text in italics was overwritten by Latrobe in gaps left by the polygraph; addressed: “The president of the United States Washington”; franked; postmarked 12 Nov.; endorsed by TJ as
received 13 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: Latrobe to TJ, 24 Oct. In its animadversion, the Washington Federalist criticized Latrobe’s replace-
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9 NOVEMBER 1804 ment of the roof of “the Prezzidoliad” with sheet iron from his own rolling mill at a cost that the paper estimated to be $16,000 to $20,000. The paper suggested that Latrobe’s employment was a reward for his political activities on behalf of TJ. In rebuttal, the Aurora pointed to the extravagance and “quackery” of Latrobe’s
predecessors and lauded his efforts to overcome the construction flaws of the President’s House and Capitol. It also implied that William Thornton had written the Federalist critique, a charge that paper subsequently denied (Washington Federalist, 24 Oct., 7 Nov.; Aurora, 2 Nov.).
From Joseph Marie Lequinio de Kerblay [9 Nov. 1804]
lequinio Kerblay french vice-Consul at Newport in Rhode-island desires to be admitted to present his respects to the most honorable President of the United States Mr: jefferson lequinio Kerblay is the same Who brought on his arrival from france letters from Mrs. lafayette and larochefoucaut liancourt to Mr jefferson. RC (MHi); endorsed by TJ as “presented” 9 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. mrs. lafayette: that is, the letter of her husband, the Marquis de Lafayette,
forwarded by Lequinio de Kerblay on 20 June 1802, along with a letter from La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt (Vol. 37: 632-4).
From Samuel A. Otis Sir Office of the Secy of the S US 9th Novr 1804 Soon after your message was read in Senate Mr Duane was applied to for 300 copies for use of the Senate. I put into his hands the copy you laid before the Senate to correct the press. This morning he sent me the printing but had mislaid the copy I put into his hands. He however sent me the copy you were pleased to communicate to the H of R. On collating the printing I found several variations from the copy laid before the House of R. So many indeed that I deemed it my duty to return the printed copies to Mr Duane for correction. Since that he hath found the first mentioned copy, with which I have again collated the printing & find they agree. Had Mr Duane returned me the copy put into his hands, with the printed copies, no delay would have occurred. As it is I flatter myself no blame is imputable to me. I have the honour to be Your most obedient humble Sevt Sam A Otis RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 9 Nov. and so recorded in SJL.
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From Louis André Pichon 9. 9bre. 1804.
Mr. Pichon présente ses respects à Monsieur Le President des Etats Unis, et le prie d’agreer son regret bien sincere de ce qu’un Rhume qu’il a gagné hier, et le defaut de voiture le priveront du plaisir de se rendre à l’invitation que Mr. Le President a eu la bonté de lui faire hier. Mr. Pichon a depuis l’an dernier deux ou trois caisses de vin blanc de champagne (de 60 blles. chaque) qu’il desire céder à Mr. Le President s’il n’en est pas pourvu. Si Mr. le President veut donner ses ordres à Mr Lemaire à cet egard celuici pourra venir voir le vin. Mr. Pichon avait fait venir dans le tems ce vin de N. York pour Mr. le Président & pr. Mr. Madison, ce qui il a omis d’en parler hier. Mr. Pichon a aussi une grande provision de vins blancs & rouges de bordeaux dont il cederait volontiers. ils sont excellens. e d i t o r s’
t r a n s l a t i o n
9 Nov. 1804 Mr. Pichon presents his respects to the president of the United States and begs him to accept his sincere regret that a cold he caught yesterday and the lack of a carriage prevent him for having the pleasure of accepting the invitation the president so kindly extended yesterday. For the past year, Mr. Pichon has had two or three cases of champagne (60 bottles each) that he would like to offer the president, if his stock is not already complete. If the president wishes to instruct Mr. Lemaire in this regard, he will be able to come and see the wine. Mr. Pichon forgot to mention yesterday that he has already had the wine brought down from New York for the president and for Mr. Madison. Mr. Pichon also has a large stock of red and white Bordeaux wines that he would willingly offer. They are excellent. RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 9 Nov. and so recorded in SJL.
From Edward Roche Sir Wilmington November 9. 1804. I have not the pleasure to boast of being a Native American; but I can with truth say, that all my principles, habits and interests are purely American; and setting wealth aside (of which I cannot value myself in the possession) few men have more reason to be or can be more zealously attached to the true interests of our Country than myself; or repose a more generous confidence in your administration. 698
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At the age of fourteen years with the consent of my Parents, who had given me a more liberal education than their circumstances could well afford, and who could give me little more, I emigrated from the Kingdom of Ireland, and after having visited France, & Portugal, proceeded to Philadelphia, where on application to the orphans court I was bound an apprentice to a reputable Merchant; with whom I continued to serve until I was twenty one years old. After which period in consequence of the character I had established during my apprenticeship I had obtained sufficient Credit to commence business on my own account at New Castle in this State,— and was tolerably successful therein until the War broke out between this country & Great Britain. My first political principles, were induced by the writings of the venerable Patriots, who engaged in the Political controversies which preceeded that event, from the commencement of the disputes. I had began to imbibe the opinions and advocate the measures recommended by the Patriots of that time, from a full conviction of their truth & propriety— And in the very crisis which tried Mens Souls, I was on my way as a volunteer in the militia to join the Army under General Washington. After having served during the Winter of 1776 in that way In the succeeding Spring I was honored with the appointment in the Delaware Regiment, and continued to serve in that Regiment as Lieut & paymaster; until the fatal defeat of General Gates’s Army near Cambden in South Carolina, at which I became I prisoner to the Enemy & continued so until the conclusion of the War. And tho I cannot felicitate myself upon having performed any very brulliant Actions in the course of the contest for the Liberty and Independence of our Country, yet, I am conscious of having deservedly obtained the reputation of a good officer useful in the Field and in the Camp— On the establishment of Peace by a Sale of the Certificates (obtained from the Public for my Pay) at 2/6. in the pound, and the Sale of my right in 200 acres of Western Lands at half a Dollar p: acre, together with the Credit of my former character as a merchant I again commenced business in the Town of New Castle and with tolerable success. I had strong hopes of making an Establishment for an increasing Family, which I had sometime before began to form, But the attention of my Fellow Citizens (unsought for by me) was directed to me as a person in whose integrity & political Talents they could confide to represent them in a Convention then about to be called, for forming a new Constitution for the State of Delaware. I 699
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was thereupon elected, and with honest zeal & fidelity endeavored to perform the high duties & trusts which the confidence of the People, had committed to my charge. I was afterwards elected & served successively as a member of the House of Representatives, and as a member of the Senate of the said State. And I believe I might have continued to this time in that way to have been honored & confided in by my Fellow Citizens, but I found that the political pursuits in which I had been engaged, were incompatible with the attention & habits of business necessary to support & maintain a Family, or to form a Fund for their support. In short Sir, in pursuit of the Public Interest, I lost sight of my own. The small fruits of my former Industry were wasted, (but neither by Luxury or dissipation,) my mercantile habits which had been much injured by the War were in a great measure destroyed, and my mercantile connexions dissolved.— I was thenceforth oblidge to have recourse to my Pen, to obtain an honest livelihood. and in the business of a Notary Public & Conveyancer I have since then supported my Family, sedulously avoiding all Political altercations & engagements. I am now Sir upwards of Fifty years of age, Thirty five of which I have resided in America. I have a Wife and Six children to maintain. The most active & vigorous part of my Life has been devoted to the public service. My character I can confidently say is unspotted. my abilities to serve the Public are yet unimpaired. My Zeal for the Public Good tho some what chilled is not abated; And I should be proud to serve under your happy administration in a situation wherein I would be likely to obtain a just Equivalent for my time and services; and some remuneration for the exertions of my Youth. Such a situation on the removal of Allen McLane Esqr. from the Office of Collector of the Port of Wilmington (which it is reported here is about to take place) will have to be filled and I respectfully offer myself to your Consideration as a Candidate to fill the vacancy which may be occasioned by such removals To support my claims to your attention & favor (should it be thought necessary) I beleive I could procure in the usual way a Croud of Certificates, with the Signatures of my Fellow Citizens affixed; but at present I shall confine myself, to a few references for a confirmation or refutation of whatever I have herein advanced.—To David Hall Esqr at present Governor of the State of Delaware & formerly Colonel of the Delaware Regiments—To Joseph Anderson Esqr Senator 700
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of the United States, & formerly an officer in the Revoluy Army.—To Major Peter Jacquett, to Capt Caleb P. Bennet, I beg leave to refer for my character & situation previous to the War, and for my character & conduct as an officer during its continuance—To John Dickinson Esqr. with whom I have served in the Convention, and who has ever since honored me with an Intimacy—To Caesar A Rodney Esqr. with whom I have served in the Legislature and with whom I have frequently transacted business—for my Character as well in a public as private cupacity, and of my capability to perform the duties of the office in question, I can confidently refer you. To Thomas Lea, the President of the Bank of Delaware. To Joseph Tatnal Esqr. the former President of the said Bank, for my Character & conduct, my capacity & integrity as a Notary & Conveyancer, I respectfully refer you To neither of the above named Gentlemen have I either directly or indirectly mentioned the present application, or my wishes, nor to any other of my Fellow Citizens. Confidently relying on your discernments and willing to stand or fall in your opinion by the unprepared & unbiassed opinions of my Fellow Citizens, who have had opportunities of knowing me, I shall wait the result of this address. Should I be so fortunate as to find, that you are inclined to favor the present application, I shall persue such measures as may be deemed necessary to prove that any confidence with which I may be honored will not be improperly placed. I am Sir with high respect Your Friend & Fellow Citizen— Edw: Roche RC (DLC); addressed: “Thomas Jefferson Esquire. President of the United States.”; franked; postmarked 10 Nov.; endorsed by TJ as received 11 Nov. and “to be Collector v. Mc.lane” and so recorded in SJL. Edward Roche (1754-1821) was born in County Cork, Ireland. During the American Revolution, he served as second lieutenant in a Delaware regiment and later as an officer in the state’s Society of the Cincinnati. Roche represented New Castle County in the convention that approved a new state consitution in 1792. He was a member of the Delaware House of Representatives that same year and a state senator in 1798. In 1800, Roche was ap-
pointed a notary public and justice of the peace for Wilmington, offices he held for life. He also helped organize Wilmington’s water department and was an officer in the Veteran Home Guard, organized to help defend the city against British invasion during the War of 1812 (Henry Hobart Bellas, “A History of the Delaware State Society of the Cincinnati,” Papers of the Historical Society of Delaware, 13 [1895], 69, 147; Claudia L. Bushman and others, eds., Proceedings of the House of Assembly of the Delaware State 17811792 and the Constitutional Convention of 1792 [Newark, Del., 1988], 835, 952; Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser, 12 Apr. 1821).
701
To the Senate To the Senate of the United States. During the last recess of the Senate I have granted commissions for the offices, and to the persons following: which commissions will expire at the end of the present session of the Senate. I therefore nominate the same persons to the same offices for reappointment, viz. John Armstrong of New York Minister Plenipotentiary to France. James Monroe, our present Minister Plenipotentiary at the court of London, to be Minister extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Spain for the purposes expressed in the commission heretofore granted to the sd James Monroe & Charles Pinckney jointly, and approved by the Senate, which commission becomes ineffectual by the intended return of Charles Pinckney. Daniel Humphreys of New Hampshire Attorney of the US. for the district of New Hampshire. Tomson J. Skinner of Massachusets Commissioner of loans for Massachusets Joshua Prentiss of Massachusets Surveyor & Inspector of the revenue for the port of Marblehead William Few of New York Commissioner of loans for New York. William Bache of Pensylvania Surveyor & Inspector for the port of Philadelphia. Thomas Rutter of Maryland Marshal for the district of Maryland. Edward Hall of Maryland Commissioner of loans for Maryland. John Brent of Maryland Collector & Inspector for Nanjemoy in Maryland Edmund Key of Maryland Surveyor & Inspector for Llewelinsburg in Maryland Wilson Cary Nicholas of Virginia Collector for Norfolk & Portsmouth in Virginia David Broadie of Virginia Collector & Inspector for Hampton in Virginia. Thomas C. Ferebee of North Carolina Surveyor & Inspector of Indiantown in N. Carola Isaac Neufville of S. Carolina Commissioner of loans for South Carolina. Philip Green of Ohio Collector and Inspector for Marietta in Ohio. Walter Jones junr. Attorney of the US. for the district of Columbia. ⎫ Samuel Hamilton ⎪ Justices of the peace for the county of ⎬ Samuel N. Smallwood ⎪ Washington in the district of Columbia. Robert Alexander junr ⎭ John Gibson of Indiana Secretary for the territory of Indiana. 702
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Michael Jones of Ohio Register of the land office at Kaskaskias. John Badollet of Pensylvania Register of the land office at Vincennes. George Hoffman of Ohio Register of the land office at Detroit. Frederick Bates of Indiana Reciever of public monies for lands at Detroit. Elijah Backus of Ohio, Reciever of public monies for lands at Kaskaskia. Nathaniel Ewing of Pensylvania Reciever of public monies for lands at Vincennes. Harry Toulman of Kentucky one of the judges of the Missisipi territory. Thomas Fitzpatrick of South Carolina, Register of the land office in the county of Adams in the Missisipi territory for the lands West of Pearl river Joseph Chambers of the Missisipi territory Register of the land office in the county of Washington in the Missisipi territory for the lands East of Pearl river. Edmund P. Gaines Collector for the district of Mobille and Inspector for the port of Fort Stoddart in the Missisipi territory. Th: Jefferson Nov. 9. 1804 RC (DNA: RG 46, LPPM, 8th Cong., 2d sess.); endorsed by Senate clerks, who also added notations in margin. PoC (DLC); TJ placed a check mark alongside each name.
William A. Burwell delivered this message on 12 Nov. After considering the appointments, the Senate approved all but 10 names on 20 Nov. and assented to the remaining candidates on 22 Nov. (jep, 1:471-4).
To the Senate To the Senate of the United States. During the last recess of the Senate the following commissions have issued in the naval service. as these will expire at the end of the present session, the same persons are now nominated for re-appointment; to wit. Stephen Decatur jr. of Pensylva. to be a Captain in the Navy. ⎫ Charles Stewart of Pensylva. ⎪ Isaac Hull of Massachusets ⎪ ⎪ Andrew Sterrett of Maryland ⎪ ⎪ to be Masters Commandant in John Shaw of Pensylvania ⎬ ⎪ the Navy. Isaac Chauncey of New York ⎪ John Smith of South Carolina ⎪ ⎪ Richard Somers of N. Jersey. ⎪ ⎭ George Cox of Maryland 703
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John H. Dent of Maryland to be a Lieutenant Commandant in the Navy ⎫ Starling Archer of Virginia ⎪ ⎪ Nathaniel T. Weems of Virginia. ⎪ ⎪ John Ridgely of Maryland. ⎪ ⎬ to be Surgeons in the Navy. William Rogers of Maryland ⎪ James Dodge of New York ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ Larkin Griffin of Maryland ⎪ ⎭ Thomas Babbit of Massachusets Th: Jefferson Nov. 9. 1804. RC (DNA: RG 46, LPPM, 8th Cong., 2d sess.); endorsed by Senate clerks, who also added notations in margin. PoC (DLC); TJ placed a check mark alongside each name.
On 12 Nov., William A. Burwell delivered TJ’s message to the Senate, where it was ordered to lie for consideration. The Senate approved the officers on 20 Nov. and the surgeons on 26 Nov. (jep, 1:472-5).
From S. Smith & Buchanan Sir Baltimore Novr. 9. 1804 We are requested by Mr L Harris of St Petersburg, to receive & forward to you, a Box containing a Bust of the Emperor of Russia, which has arrived here in the Ship Restitution from thence; be pleased to direct in what manner it shall be forwarded and believe us to be With due respect Sir Your Obedt Servts S Smith & Buchanan RC (CSmH); at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received 10 Nov. and so recorded in SJL.
From William C. C. Claiborne D Sir, Nw. Orleans November 10h. 1804 Governor Folch is yet in this City, arranging (as is understood) with the Marquis a plan for improving and strengthening the Garrison at Pensacola. These Gentlemen (I hear) are impressed with an opinion that the U. States will abandon their Claim to West Florida, and that East & West Florida will be given in exchange for the West Bank of the Missisippi;—But this I presume is in conformity to their 704
10 NOVEMBER 1804
wishes, & that they have no Official Information on which to ground the opinion.— A Royal Decree is said to have reached Mr. Moralis, sanctioning his sales of Lands in West Florida—This information has given great pleasure to our Land Speculators, and particularly to Mr. Daniel Clark.— I have enclosed you a paper containing a reply to certain charges exhibited against me by an anonimous Writer;—The Reply is also anonimous; but the statements are correct:—The charges against me were contained in a Pamphlet, a Copy of which I have sent to the Secy of State. Governor Folch & his Suit consisting of eight or ten officers; a Band of Music (12 Musicians) and about 15 or 20 Barge Men, will leave this City for Pensacola in a few Days.—I am desirous his visit should be short; but during his stay, I esteemed it a Duty to treat him with every Mark of respect; particularly since his passage by the way of New-Orleans was with my Consent.— I pray you Sir, to receive my best wishes for a Continuance of your health & happiness, & believe me to be— With every sentiment of Respect! Your faithful friend! William C. C. Claiborne RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 10 Dec. and so recorded in SJL. Enclosure: probably the 9 Nov. edition of the Louisiana Gazette, containing an essay by “Lælius” defending Claiborne’s administration against criticisms made in a recent anonymous publication referred to as “A Sketch of the political and civil situation of Louisiana” in the period from 30 Nov. 1803 to 1 Oct. 1804.
pamphlet: Esquisse de la situation politique et civile de la Louisiane, depuis le 30 Novembre 1803, jusqu’au 1er. Octobre 1804. par un Louisianais (New Orleans, 1804). Claiborne enclosed a copy of the pamphlet in his 16 Oct. letter to Madison (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser., 8:178-83, 199-201). An English-language version, entitled View of the Political and Civil Situation of Louisiana, was published in Philadelphia in 1804.
To Albert Gallatin Th: Jefferson to mr Gallatin. Nov. 10. 04. I inclose you David Greenlaw’s affidavit to be forwarded to the District Attorney of N. Carolina as you propose. you can add the fact mentioned in Govr. Page’s letter that Greenlaw is at his father’s in Northumberland county Virginia, where he will remain till the 3d. of December to be ready to assist in bringing to justice the persons named 705
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in his affidavit. I presume it will be well to forward also the inclosed extract of a letter from mr Moore to Governor Page. Should not a copy of Greenlaw’s affidavit be sent to the President of the Maryland bank to put them on their guard? they are at hand to take such measures at Ellicot’s mills as may be thought expedient. PoC (DLC). Recorded in SJL as a letter to the Treasury Department with notation “Virginia counterfieters.” Enclosures: see John Page to TJ, 3 Nov. (first and third letters).
To George Jefferson Dear Sir Washington Nov. 10. 04. The coal has been recieved. you did not mention the price, but presuming 200. D. will cover it, I inclose you that sum—a box was to be sent to you from Monticello, by the first boats, to be forwarded here. I shall be glad to recieve it by the first vessel from Richmond after it shall have reached you. Accept my affectionate salutations. Th: Jefferson PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr George Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ. Notation in SJL: “200. D. coal.”
To John Page Dear Sir Washington Nov. 10. 04. Your several favors of the 3d. inst. have been duly recieved. on the affidavit of Greenlaw which you were so kind as to inclose, the necessary measures will be taken. that which covered claims of reimbursement from the treasury of the US. on the prosecution of Logwood, has been considered by the Secretary of the treasury, within whose department it is. he states as follows, that the account for a guard has been allowed: that if the transportation of forging materials was necessary for conviction, the six dollars should be paid by the Marshal; but that the three large items in favor of Underwood, Allen, & Brookes, being gratuities for certain meritorious conduct, are not within the competence of the Executive of the US. to allow: that claims of this character must be made to Congress. I return you the papers therefore to be used as the foundation of such a claim should you think proper to have it brought forward by your Senators in Congress, the constitutional organ for that purpose. I will also have a consultation with your Senators, from whom, or from myself, you shall hear further 706
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on the subject. the separate application on behalf of Brookes is equally beyond our competence. it differs from the public claim only as it is proper he should come forward individually by petition to Congress, which he may have presented by a representative to the H. of Representatives or to the Senate as he pleases. Your favor of Oct. 29. recieved at the same time shall be the subject of a separate answer. Accept my salutations and assurances of great esteem & respect. Th: Jefferson RC (Vi); addressed: “Governor Page Richmond”; franked. PoC (DLC). Enclosures: see Page to TJ, 3 Nov. (second letter).
To William Short Dear Sir Washington Nov. 10. 04. Your favor of the 5th. has been duly recieved; & I am very thankful to you as well as to your good friend for the attention you have paid to the commission respecting the Cahusac: and if it’s quality is unchanged, it is a wine which will please here. it will come safely through our Consul at Bordeaux, & the more so as that harbour is not included in the English blockade. the party division in this country is certainly not among it’s pleasant features. to a certain degree it will always exist: and chiefly in mercantile places. in the country in those states where the republicans have a decided superiority, party hostility has ceased to infest society. but in those states where the parties are nearly equal the bitterness is in it’s paroxysm. this is especially the case in Connecticut Massachusets & N. Hampshire where the Federalists have still the majority but see that they must lose it in a trial or two more. I can readily suppose that the disapprobation expressed to you by one gentleman of the scurrilities of their papers must be sincere in those who have good sense & moderation of temper. but that it is not general is proved by the continuance of those scurrilities. the editors are but cooks who must consult the palates of their customers. the toasts given at the fête with which mr King was complimented shew the spirit of a high-figuring portion of the party, and have sealed the decree which places him for ever in private life. if the federalists would have been contented with my giving a very moderate participation in office to those who had been totally excluded, I had hoped to have been able to effect a reconciliation, & would sincerely have attempted it. but they spurned every overture of conciliation. I have therefore long since given up the idea, & proceed in all things without caring what they will think, say or do. to me 707
10 NOVEMBER 1804
will have fallen the drudgery of putting them out of condition to do mischief. my successor I hope will have smoother seas.—I inclose you a note for 500. D. it is not in my power to be as punctual in this as I wish & had expected. I do not believe I can remit any thing the next month; but be assured I will keep my shoulder steadily to it. I hope we shall see you here this winter. accept my affectionate salutations and assurances of constant esteem & attachment. Th: Jefferson RC (PWacD: Feinstone Collection, on deposit PPAmP); at foot of text: “Mr. Short.” Notation in SJL: “500. D.” The toasts given at a public dinner held in Boston on 17 Oct. to honor Rufus king were strongly critical of TJ’s admin-
istration, especially the purchase of Louisiana and the handling of military affairs. Other toasts condemned the impeachment of federal judges and the subordination of northern interests in national politics (Boston Repertory, 19 Oct.; Washington Federalist, 31 Oct.).
From Larkin Smith Dear Sir King & Queen Novr. 10th. 1804 I have heretofore taken the liberty of addressing two letters to you, and confess that I feel myself mortified that neither of them have received from you the smallest attention. I did think myself entitled at least to some notice. to this communication I neither expect, or wish an answer; my last letter which was founded in the strictest truth, wore some appearance of humiliation, this I did not feel, because it contained a statement of facts. since writing that letter I have married the Daughter of your acquaintance the late Mr. Henry Tazewell, her patrimony has in a great degree relieved me from my pecuniary embarrasments. I therefore Sir am no longer an applicant for office, nor should I ever have been, but for the forcible reasons offered heretofore. When I reflect on the toils attendant on a seven years war, with the ravages which have been made on my constitution; and that my best services throughout my life have been devoted to my country; added to which that I am one of the very few revolutionary characters who opposed their chief in politicks (believing that he had departed from sound principles) and when I view the circumstances which have produced this letter, there surely is some cause for the chagrine which I have expressed in the early part of it. Being placed on the republican electoral list, I shall probably be chosen an elector for this state; in which case I shall certainly vote for you as President of the U. States for two reasons, first because I disdain to suffer anything of a private nature to affect me in the discharge 708
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of my public duties. & seconly because I think your conduct as the Presiding member of our Government has been eminently calculated to give prosperity & happiness to your country. I am with great respect your Excellencies Obt. Servt. Larkin Smith RC (MoSHi); addressed: “His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esqe. President of the U.States”; franked; postmarked Williamsburg, [21] Nov.; endorsed by TJ as received 25 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Virginian Larkin Smith (1745-1813) was a Revolutionary War captain in the Fourth Continental Dragoons. For much of 1784-1803, he represented King and Queen County in the Virginia General Assembly. The rise of Smith, a staunch Republican, to speaker of the House of Delegates in 1799 was applauded as a major victory by those eager to purge the assembly of Federalists. In 1802, he initiated a successful assembly resolution condemning Federalist editors for the “extreme licentiousness” of their attacks on TJ. In May 1804, he married Sophia Ann Tazewell Taliaferro, the sister of Little-
ton Waller Tazewell. TJ appointed Smith customs collector for the district of Norfolk and Portsmouth in 1807, a position he held until his death (Bruce F. Jamerson, Speakers and Clerks of the Virginia House of Delegates, 1776-1996 [Richmond, 1996], 35; Heitman, Register, 505; Earl G. Swem and John W. Williams, A Register of the General Assembly of Virginia 1776-1918 and of the Constitutional Conventions [Richmond, 1918], 429; Baltimore Federal Gazette, 21 Dec. 1802; Norfolk Gazette and Publick Ledger, 2 Oct. 1813; rs, 1:88n; Vol. 31:250-1; Vol. 39:147; TJ to the Senate, 9 Nov. 1807). two letters to you: Smith wrote to TJ on 19 Aug. 1803 requesting a post as loan officer and on 16 Apr. 1804 applying for the collectorship at Norfolk. Neither letter has been found (Vol. 41:737; Vol. 43:692).
From James Wilkinson Sir Washington Nov. 10th. 1804 I regret that a variety of interruptions & engagements, should have so long prevented my attention, to the subject you did me the Honor to mention to me.— On turning it in my Mind, the Idea occurred to me that your proposition could not be better sustained, than by an examination of the System of defences, heretofore adopted for our Towns & Harbours, and a comparative view of its merits with those of the Plan which you recommend; I have yielded to this suggestion & shall be happy if the manner & matter of the enclosed reflections, should meet your approbation, as they are for you & at your disposal only.— You will also find under cover, an Extract from the reflections of the Marquis of Santa Cruz, an author of great respectability, who wrote early in the last Century, from which you will perceive, Gallies, (in other words Gun Boats) have been long held in high Estimation.— 709
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I have only to add Sir, that these observations were committed to paper on the Day of their Date, & that I have not been able to have them copied sooner, so inadequate are my means to my Duties. With great consideration & respect I have the honor to be Sir Your obliged & Faithful Servant James Wilkinson RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 10 Nov. and so recorded in SJL. Tr (DNA: RG 46, LPPM, 9th Cong., 2d sess.); enclosed in TJ to the Senate and the House of Representatives, 10 Feb. 1807; with note at foot of text in TJ’s hand: “Note. this letter was only the cover of Genl. Wilkinson’s opinion, and therefore shews only in general terms what that was. the opinion itself was on a former occasion communicated to a committee of the House of representatives, & was read to the house for it’s information. this paper cannot now be found; which is the more regretted as it went much at large into the reasoning on the subject.” Tr (DNA: RG 233, PM, 9th
Cong., 2d sess.); with identical note by TJ at foot of text. Enclosures not found, but see below. enclosed reflections: sometime prior to 28 Jan. 1805, TJ forwarded Wilkinson’s enclosures on gunboats to Joseph H. Nicholson, the chairman of a select committee on harbor defense (jhr, 5:11; Joseph H. Nicholson to TJ, 28 Jan. 1805). Among these enclosures was an unidentified extract from a 1732 book by the Marqués de Santa Cruz de Marcenado, relating to the usefulness of galleys for coastal defense (Alvaro Navia Osorio, Comercio suelto, y en compañias general y particular en Mexico, Peru, Philipinas, y Moscovia [Madrid, 1732], 189-205).
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Appendix I E D I T O R I A L
N O T E
Jefferson kept an ongoing list of appointments and removals through his two terms as president, with entries extending from 5 Mch. 1801 to 23 Feb. 1809. For the first installment of this list, ending at 14 May 1802, see Volume 33, Appendix i, List 4. Beginning with Volume 37, each volume’s span of the list appears as Appendix i. The segment for the current volume continues at 3 July 1804, with the president’s recording of Edmund P. Gaines’s appointment as collector and inspector at Fort Stoddert on the Mobile River. With the exception of those nominees not requiring Senate confirmation, the names entered were recess appointments. The president formally nominated them to the Senate when it reconvened in November (jep, 1:471-2, 475-6; TJ to the Senate, 9 and 30 Nov.). This was a working list, which Jefferson updated as he received information. Most evident in this regard are the many alterations the president made to the legislative council of Orleans Territory. He sent his preferred list to William C. C. Claiborne in a letter of 30 Aug. Cancellations and insertions reflect information that came to Jefferson after that date, such as Evan Jones’s decision to decline the appointment and the identification of Jacques Roman as a “Creole,” that is, a native French speaker (Claiborne to TJ, 5 Oct.). Jefferson usually added check marks beside the names of appointees who assumed their respective offices, but he was not always consistent in this practice.
List of Appointments July
1804. Aug.
[3 July-13 Oct. 1804]
3. Edmund Pendleton Gaines, a Lt. in the army of the US. Collector for the district & Inspector of revenue for the port of Fort Stoddert. new. ✓ 6. John Thibaut of Orleans Surveyor and Inspector of the revenue for the port of Bayou St. John. [Govr. Claiborne to fill up] 11. ✓ John Gibson of Indiana. Secretary for the Indiana territory. 20. John Brent of Maryld. Collector for the district and Inspector of the port of Nanjemoy. 30. George Hammond of Georgia Return J. Meigs of Ohio Return J. Gibs of Massachus. Richard Kennon of Virginia 711
⎫ ⎪
⎬
⎪ ⎪
⎪ ⎭
Colos. Commandants of a district of Louisiana.
APPENDIX I
Seth Hunt of N. Hampshire
declind declined
declined decld
declind.
Sep. Oct.
⎫
Majors Commandants of a district of ⎪ ⎭ Louisiana. ✓ Wm. C. C. Claiborne of Misipi T. Governor of the territory of Orleans. James Brown of Kentucky Secretary of the T. of O. ⎫ Ephraim Kirby of Connecticut ⎪ judges of the ⎬ ✓ John B. Prevost of N. York Superior ct. of ⎪ ⎭ the T. of O. ✓ Dominic A. Hall of S.C. judge of the District ct. of the T. of O. Mahlone Dickerson of Pensva. Atty of ✓ Francis Joseph le Breton D’Orgenoy. NO. Marshal of the district of Orleans ⎫ ⎫ ✓ Benjamin Morgan ⎪ of N.O. ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ Daniel Clarke ⎬ ⎪ ⎪ ✓ John Watkins ⎪ ⎪ ⎪ ⎭
⎪ James Roman of Attacapas ⎪ ⎪ Creole1 ⎪ ⎪ members of the William Wikoff of Appalousa ⎪ legislative ⎬ ⎪ Council of the ✓ William Kenner ⎪ T. of O.
⎪ ✓ Julien Poydrasse of Pt. Coupée ⎪⎪ Bellechasse Deville Degoutin2 of ⎪ ⎪ Acadn. coast ⎪ ⎪ Gaspard Dubuys ⎪ Michael Cantrell ⎪ ⎭
✓ Harry Toulman of Kentucky.3 one of the judges of the Misipi terry. 2. ✓ Isaac Neufville Commr. of loans in S. Carola. v. Neufville decd. Samuel Travis 1st. mate of a revenue cutter. 5. [pro Mar. 28.] ✓ Joseph Chambers of Misipi tery. Register of land office East of Pearl river 8. ✓ Walter Jones. Columbia. Atty US. for district Columbia v. J. T. Mason resigned. 13. James Monroe Min. Extray. & Plen. to his Cath. Maj. concerng. boundy. of Louisa. the cession &c. 712
⎬
⎪
APPENDIX I MS (DLC: TJ Papers, 186:33098); entirely in TJs hand, including brackets; being the continuation of a list that extends from 5 Mch. 1801 to 23 Feb. 1809; for the immediately preceding portion of this list, see Vol. 43: Appendix i.
1 Word inserted. 2 Preceding two names interlined. 3 Word interlined in place of “Ohio.”
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Appendix II Dinner Guest Records 1. LIST OF MEMBERS OF EIGHTH CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION, NOVEMBER 1804 2. DINNER ATTENDANCE BY MEMBERS OF CONGRESS, [5 NOV. 1804-27 FEB. 1805] 3. DINNERS BY DATE, [5-9 NOV. 1804]
E D I T O R I A L
N O T E
Between 5 Nov. 1804 and 6 Mch. 1809, Jefferson kept an account of the guests he invited to dine with him at the President’s House. In multiple columns on eight manuscript pages, he eventually logged nearly 400 dinners and well over 600 different invited guests before retiring to Monticello. The first page of the dinner guest records is illustrated in this volume. Except for Jefferson’s last year in office, the dinner guest records had three components: an annual list of the members of Congress, which Jefferson used to identify, by symbols, those members who had waited on him and each man’s attendance at a dinner; a second annual list to monitor the dates on which each congressman or senator attended dinner; and a calendar of dinners by dates, listing the surnames of the guests invited to dine on each occasion. That third list included both congressional and noncongressional guests and was interrupted only by those times when Jefferson was away from the capital. For the summers of 1805 and 1806 there was an additional component: a list of guests and the dates of the dinners they attended at the President’s House when Congress was not in session. For the list of members of Congress, Jefferson used two ruled columns to record the names of the current House members, sorted by state, and followed by a single-column list of the current senators without state designation (see List of Members of Eighth Congress, Second Session, List 1 below). For the first three years of the dinner guest records, he subdivided the House list by political party, using the left column for Republicans and the right column for Federalists. As each season progressed, Jefferson added backslashes in front of names to remind him of those members of Congress who had called on him after arriving in Washington. (For an earlier version of this list, see Vol. 41:545-50.) He turned the backslash into a check mark after the congressman attended dinner, although he did so only for first-round dinners in 1804-1805 (see note to List 2 below). Jefferson’s second congressional list tracked the dates on which each member attended dinner (Dinner Attendance by Members of Congress, List 2 below). For the congressional sessions running from November 1804 through March 1807, he included only those members who attended at least one dinner and subdivided the list by chamber, but not state. For the congressional session of 1807-1808, Jefferson changed to an alphabetical list of the members, most likely drawn up at the start of the season, subdivided by house and not exclusive to those who attended a dinner. In his last year in office, the president created one list to do the job of two by writing out the members of
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APPENDIX II Congress alphabetically and then adding the appropriate backslashes and the dates of dinners. By far the largest component of the records is the guest calendar—a running log by date of the men and women invited to dine at the President’s House. The first three dinners on the guest calendar are included in this volume (Dinners by Date, List 3 below). Each of those dinners was given for 12 invited guests, and all three were part of what Jefferson called his yearly “Congressional campaign” (Jefferson to Ellen Wayles Randolph, 19 Oct. 1807). Jefferson’s objective, though, was to record all the dinners he gave, from his frequent meals with his financial agent John Barnes to a dinner for 21 members of a Cherokee delegation (6 Jan. 1806), from working dinners with cabinet secretaries to summer meals with elite local families. He identified guests by surname. Initials after a surname were for clarification. For example, Jefferson added a “G.” after “Baldwin” at the 5 Nov. dinner date to distinguish his guest as Abraham Baldwin of Georgia and not Simeon Baldwin of Connecticut. The names of guests who declined were crossed off the list with a single stroke (see James Gillespie at the 9 Nov. dinner in List 3 below). Jefferson did not note the names of those at dinner who were house guests or residents of the President’s House. In the first years of the records, and occasionally in later years, he noted those people broadly as “fam.” (see List 3). Family included Jefferson’s secretary and his sons-in-law, John Wayles Eppes and Thomas Mann Randolph, who lived with Jefferson while attending Congress as representatives from Virginia. Jefferson was inconsistent in the rendering of names in these long-running lists. Among names of members of Congress, some of his variations in the lists printed below are “Chamberlin” for William Chamberlain, “Hasbroc” or “Hasbrok” for Josiah Hasbrouck, “Salmond” or “Salmon” for Thomas Sammons, “Rykart” for Samuel Riker, and “Verplank” for Daniel Verplanck. Richard Stanford’s name might be rendered “Standford” or “Sandford.” Other misspellings include “Lownes” for Thomas Lowndes, “Sumpter” for Thomas Sumter, and “Mc.Creary” or “Mc.reary” for William MacCreery of Maryland. Jefferson abbreviated “V” for Van (“V. Cortlandt,” “V. Horne”) and condensed longer names, as in “Crownenshld” or “Crowninshld” for Jacob Crowninshield, “Breckenr” for John Breckinridge, and “V. Rensler” or “V. Renslaer” for Killian Van Rensselaer. Jefferson frequently wrote “Lattimer” for Mississippi delegate William Lattimore and “Dixon” for William Dickson of Tennessee.
1. List of Members of Eighth Congress, Second Session Nov.
N.H.
1804. ✓ Betton ✓ Clagget ✓ Hough 715
APPENDIX II
✓ ✓ ✓ –✓ –✓ ✓ ✓
Bishop Crownenshd Cutts Eustis Learned Seaver Varnum
✓ Knight ✓ Stanton
✓ Elliot ✓ Olin. ✓ Hasbroc ✓ Mc.Cord ✓ Mitchel ✓ Palmer ✓ Patterson • Phelps ✓ Root ✓ Salmond ✓ Rykart ✓ Thomas ✓ V. Cortland ✓ Verplank
M
R.I. C
V N.Y.
✓ Hunt ✓ Tenney – Bruce – ✓ Cutler – ✓ Dwight ✓ Hastings – ✓ Mitchell ✓ Steadman – ✓ Thatcher ✓ Wadsworth – \ Williams ✓ Taggart
– ✓ Baldwin Dana ✓ Davenport Goddard Griswold ✓ Smith ✓ Talmage Chamberlin1 ✓ Chittenden Griswold ✓ Livingston Sands ✓ Tibbets \ V. Rensler
716
APPENDIX II
–✓ ✓ ✓ –✓ ✓ ✓
Boyd. Elmer Helms Motte Sloane Southard
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ –✓
Anderson Bard Brown Clay Conrad Findlay Gregg Hanna Heister
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ –✓ ✓ –✓
Leib. Lucas Rhea. Richards Smilie Stewart V. Horne Whitehill
– ✓ Rodney ✓ Archer – Bowie ✓ Nelson ✓ Mc.Creary ✓ Moore ✓ Nicholson ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Claiborne Clay Clopton Dawson Eppes
N.J
P
✓ Hoge2
D. M ✓ Campbell • – Dennis – Plater V
✓ Griffin ✓ Lewis ✓ Stephenson
717
APPENDIX II
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Goodwyn Gray Homes Jackson Jones New. Newton Randolph J. Rand. TM. Smith Thompson Wilson Trige Clarke
• Alexander ✓ Alston ✓ Blackledge ✓ Gillespie ✓ Holland ✓ Kennedy ✓ Macon ✓ Standford ✓ Williams ✓ Winston ✓ Wynne. ✓ Butler Casey ✓ Earle Hampton ✓ Moore ✓ Winn. ✓ Bryan ✓ Early ✓ Meriwethr. ✓ Morrow ✓ Bedinger ✓ Boyle
N.C.
Purviance
S.C. ✓ Huger ✓ Lownes
G
O K.
718
APPENDIX II
• Fowler ✓ Lyon •✓ Sandford ✓ Walton. ✓ Campbell ✓ Dickson ✓ Rhea ✓ Lattimore
T.
M.
Senate. – ✓ Ellery. ✓ Howland ✓ Bradley ✓ Smith. Ver. ✓ Smith N.Y. ✓ Condit. ✓ Logan \ Mclay. ✓ Smith ✓ Wright ✓ Giles ✓ Moore. ✓ Franklin ✓ Stone. • Gaillard3 ✓ Sumpter ✓ Baldwin ✓ Jackson ✓ Anderson – ✓ Cocke. ✓ Breckenr. – Brown ✓ Smith O ✓ Worthington – ✓ Burr Olcott ✓ Plumer ✓ Adams ✓ Pickering ✓ Hillhouse 719
APPENDIX II
Tracy. – ✓ Dayton – Wells ✓ White4 MS (MHi): entirely in TJ’s hand; on same sheet as Dinner Attendance by Members of Congress, 5 Nov. 1804-27 Feb. 1805 (List 2 below), and Dinners by Date beginning 5 Nov. (List 3 below). n.h.: in the list of members of the House of Representatives, TJ put Republicans in the left column and Federalists in the right column. He listed the members by state, from north to south through the seaboard states, then the western states and territories north to south: that is, the first “M” means Massachusetts, the second “M” means Maryland, and the third “M” is for Mississippi Territory; the first “V” is for Vermont, the second for Virginia. A backslash before a name meant that the member had called on TJ as Congress convened or early in the session. He
transformed a slash into a check mark when the member attended a dinner. Dots in front of names apparently indicate members who called on TJ after the middle of December, when he had completed what he called his “1st. round” of dinners for Congress (see note to List 2). TJ added a dash in front of the name to signify someone who would not, he thought, be returning for the Ninth Congress. rand. tm.: Thomas Mann Randolph. 1 TJ partially erased “C” in front of this name. 2 TJ first wrote, then partially erased, “Hoge” in the left column. 3 Written over an illegible name. 4 Burr’s name, preceded by a check mark, appears again as the final entry, but partially erased.
2. Dinner Attendance by Members of Congress [5 Nov. 1804-27 Feb. 1805]
Baldwin. G. N.5. D.15. J.9. F.23 + Cutts. N.21. D.7. J.7. F.4 Crowninshd. N.5. D.15. J.7. 31. Eustis. N.17. 27. D.31. J.28 Mitchell. N.Y. N.14. D.15. J.9. 31. F.23 Leib. N.7. D.17. J.9. 311 Clay. P. N.7. D.17. J.21. F.19. Rodney. N.17. 24. F.7. 23. Nicholson. N.17. 27. J.21. F.7. 23 Randolph. N.9. 27. D.21. J.21. F.23. Bryan. N.17. J.7. F.7. Macon. N.9. 27. D.31. F.7. Smith Mar. N.9. J.7. 11. 21. F.23 + Giles. N.9. 21. D.24. J.28. F.23 Jackson. G. D.11. J.3. 21. F.23 Breckenridge. D.11. 28. J.15. F.23 720
APPENDIX II
Dawson. N.9. D.31. Jones. N.17. D.15. J.15. F.19. Smith N.Y. N.29. D.26. J.28. F.25 Logan. N.14. D.19. J.15. F.25. Condit. N.9. D.17. J.15. Stone. N.29. J.19. Sumpter. N.17. D.19. J.28. F.11. Varnum. N.5. D.17. J.15. F.19. Smith. Verm. N.5 D.19. J.28. F.25. Brown K D.31. J.19. F.25. 272 Burr. N.9. 27. D.24. J.11. F.7. Thompson. N.9. D.19. J.19. F.19. [Second column:] Clinton. F.19.3 Seaver. N.5. D.15. J.19. Riker. N.15. D.15. J.28. Ellery. N.5. D.15. J.21. V. Cortlandt. N.13. D.15. J.21. Helms. N.17. D.17. J.19. Findley. N.7. D.17. J.28. Smilie. N.7. D.17. J.28. + Mc.reary. N.9. D.17. F.4.4 Homes. N.14. D.19. F.27. Alston. N.13. D.19. J.28. F.27. Holland. N.14. D.19. J.21. F.27. Gaillard F.7.5 Early. N.7. D.19. J.28. F.25. Anderson T. D.11. J.7. 28. Worthington N.5. D.19. J.31. F.25 Meriwether. N.15. D.21. J.19. Mc.Cord. N.13. D.21. J.31. Verplank. N.13. D.21. Sloane. N.17. D.26. J.31. Anderson P. N.13. D.26. J.19. Brown. P. N.19. D.31. J.31. Nelson. N.17. D.21. J.19. Moore Mar. N.9. J.5. F.2. Goodwin N.29. J.15. F.27. Gray. D.11. Kennedy. N.14. D.28. J.31. Standford. N.19. D.21. J.21. Cocke. N.19. D.28. F.2. 721
APPENDIX II
Smith O. D.5. J.7. F.25. Bradly. N.9. J.5. F.2. Root. D.5. J.5. F.2. Thomas. N.5. D.28. F.2. Southard. N.15. D.31. F.2. Mc.lay D.28. Wright. N.17. J.7. F.4. Richards. N.13. D.31. F.2. Moore V. N.19. D.31. F.2. Smith V. N.17. J.9. F.2 Franklin. N.15. J.3. F.2. Wynne N.C. N.29. J.3. F.2. Gregg N.29. J.3. F.2. Heister. N.19. J.3. Archer. N.13. D.28. Trigg. D.11. J.9. F.7. Clarke. N.19. J.3. F.7. Gillespie D.11. Campbell T. N.7. D.28. F.7. 25. Lucas. N.29. J.5. F.27. Clay V. D.5. 7. F.11. + Jackson V. N.21. J.7. F.4. + Newton. N.21. J.5. F.11. + Williams N.C D.7. J.19. F.11. 52.6 Wilson. D.11. J.9. F.15. Phelps. F.7. [Third column:] Bishop. D.5. J.7. – Learned. N.14. D.15. F.15. Howland D.11. J.9.7 Knight. N.7. J.5. F.19. Stanton. N.7. D.15. F.15. Olin. N.19. D.17. F.15. Palmer. N.19. J.5. Patterson. J.5. – Boyd. N.17. D.31. F.15. Stewart D.5. J.9. F.21. V. Horne D.5. J.9. F.21. Clopton. N.19. J.5. F.21. New. N.15. D.17. F.15. Winston. N.5. D.19. Blackledge D.11. F.15. 722
APPENDIX II
Butler. S.C. D.5. J.7. F.21. Winn. S.C. D.5. J.9. Bedinger. N.29. D.19. F.15. Boyle. N.7. D.19. F.25. Dickson N.7. D.19. F.15. Elliott. N.5. D.26. F.15. Hasbrok. N.5. D.21. F.15. Salmon. N.13. D.28. F.21. – Motte. N.19. J.5. Elmer. N.15. D.31. F.21. Conrad. N.7. D.28. F.21. Hanna N.29. J.9. Claiborne N.29. J.31. Alexander. D.26. J.31. F.21. Casey. J.5. F.19. Moore S.C. N.19. J.5. F.19. Sandford. N.15. D.31. Walton. D.15. J.21. F.19. Rhea T. N.7. D.28. F.21. Lattimer. N.19. J.15. F.21. Morrow N.15. J.3. F.27. – Whitehill D.5. J.15. Bard. N.14. J.3. F.27. Rea P. N.13. J.3. F.27. Earle. N.15. D.21. F.26. 27. Fowler. D.26. J.15. F.27. 41 Lyon D.11. J.15. F.27. Stevenson Dec.1. J.23. Betton Dec.1. – Mitchell M. Dec. 1. – + Lowndes Dec.1.7. F.4. Taggert D.1. Chittenden D.1. – Dayton. J.23. – Cutler D.1. Wadsworth D.1. J.23. Pickering D.1. J.23. Clagget D.3. – Dwight D.3. J. C. Smith D.1. Stedman D.1. J.23. 723
APPENDIX II
Tibbets D.3. Griffin D.3. J.23. Hillhouse D.3. J.23. Hunt. D.13 Plumer D.3. Campbell. D.13. J.23. Tenney D.3. Livingston D.3. J.23. – Williams M. V. Renslaer. D.3. J.23. Davenport D.3. Lewis D.3. Hough. D.13. White. D.13. – Baldwin C. D.13. – Thatcher D.13. Hastings. D.13. –9. Bruce + Adams. N.21. J.11. 34. Talmage. D.3. J.23. – Hoge D.13. – + Huger [At foot of first column:] days Nov. 5. to Feb. 22. 110 = 47. dinner 12. 564. persons 1st. round 153 26. × 4. 104 52. × 3. 156 75. × 2. 150 153. 563 MS (MHi); entirely in TJ’s hand; in three columns; on same sheet as List of Members of Eighth Congress, Second Session (List 1 above), and Dinners by Date beginning 5 Nov. 1804 (List 3 below). baldwin. g. n.5. d.15. j.9. f.23: that is, Abraham Baldwin of Georgia, 5 Nov. 1804 (see List 3), 15 Dec. 1804, 9 Jan. 1805, 23 Feb. 1805. A plus sign (+) in front of a person’s name, as at the entry
for Richard cutts, meant that he had family with him in Washington. The symbol next to the listing for James gillespie denoted his death on 11 Jan. 1805 (Biog. Dir. Cong.). TJ divided List 2 by political party. Federalists all appear in the lower part of the third column, from James Stephenson (stevenson) of Virginia through Benjamin Huger of South Carolina. A dash in front of a name indicated, as it did in List 1, that the member was not returning for the
724
APPENDIX II Ninth Congress, as with Phineas bruce. The “9” in front of Bruce’s name was TJ’s tally of outgoing Federalists, from Nahum Mitchell through Bruce. TJ was less consistent about repeating the dashes from List 1 onto List 2 among Republican names and made no tallies of them. nov. 5. to feb. 22.: in this calculation, TJ multiplied 47 dinners by 12 guests to get a total of 564 guest seatings. The figures may have been a projection made early in the period, which would explain why TJ chose to end the period on Friday, 22 Feb. As shown by List 2 above and by the continuation of the Dinners by Date list in the next volume, he gave a dinner on Thursday, 21 Feb., and then a few more after that date before the end of the congressional session. If he made the calculation at the end of the period, it is unclear why he would not have included the last dinners and why he chose 22 Feb. rather than 21 Feb. (or 23 Feb., a Saturday on which he gave a dinner) as the end date. His use of an average figure of 12 guests per dinner may also suggest a projection, for the number of guests did vary somewhat, and if he had made this calculation after 22 Feb., his records would have allowed him simply to tally the exact number of guest seatings during the period. The number of dinners, 47, is not obviously accounted for as a projection, for when small private dinners are excluded, TJ did host 47 dinners from 5 Nov. through 21 Feb., and the interval between them was not always the same. Yet excluding Sundays, the period had 95 days. If for purposes of calculation he had estimated one large dinner every two days, the result would be an estimated 47 dinners for the period. It is not evident, then, when TJ made this calculation. According to TJ’s records, there were 550 guest seatings at the 47 large dinners from 5 Nov. through 21 Feb., counting both congressional and noncongressional attendees. TJ completed the first round of his congressional dinners with the attendance of Matthew Walton of Kentucky on 15 Dec. At that point, TJ had invited to dinner each of the 153 members of Congress who had so far waited on him. Of those, 150 members had been guests at his table (List 1, check marks) and three had been
invited but declined (List 1, backslashes). With each member having received his initial dinner, TJ could plan the remainder of the season. He divided the 153 individuals into proportions dependent on the expected number of dinners, for example, “26. × 4.” meaning 26 members each attending 4 dinners. He then filled in the three columns, choosing names for each column in accordance with his prescribed proportions—that is, 75 members who would receive the fewest invitations from him during the remainder of the season, 52 who would be invited more times, and 26 who would receive the most invitations. He likely worked from a separate record, not found, that listed members who had waited on him and the dates of their first round dinners. He probably filled the columns from right to left, even moving Philip R. Thompson from the second column to the first column to maintain the proper numbers (see note 4 below). He did well until the first column, where he ended up with 27 names (at Aaron Burr) instead of the needed 26. The problem, which he appears not to have caught, came from adding Phineas Bruce’s name to the third column. Bruce, who has neither a backslash nor a check mark next to his name in List 1, would not have been part of TJ’s original count of 153 members, and threw the count off by one. Latearriving members of Congress who waited on TJ were added to List 2, and except for George Clinton, Jr., were also added to List 1, but without check marks or backslashes. TJ did not in the end fulfill the projections, for as is evident by the dates that he added after each name in the list printed above, some members received more invitations, and some received fewer, than what he had anticipated for each group as he filled the columns. 1 Entry
interlined. digit written over “6.” 3 Entry interlined. 4 Below this entry, TJ canceled “Thompson. N.9.” 5 Entry interlined. 6 TJ originally interlined “52” between Williams and Wilson before partially erasing and rewriting the tally. 7 Entry interlined. 2 Second
725
3. Dinners by Date [5-9 Nov. 1804]
Nov. 5. Mond. Ellery Smith. Ver. Baldwin G. Worthington Winston Varnum Thomas Crownenshd. Hasbrook Elliott. Seaver. Lincoln. fam. 4. 91 Friday. Burr Macon Bradly Condit Moore M. Mc.reary. S. Smith Dawson Giles J. Randolph Thompson
fam. 4. 7. Wednesd. Stanton Knight Conrad Clay P. Findley Smilie Leib. Early Campbell T. Ray T. 726
APPENDIX II
Dixon Boyle fam. 4. MS (MHi); entirely in TJ’s hand; being the first part of a list that extends from 5 Nov. 1804 to 6 Mch. 1809; TJ canceled James Gillespie’s name by a single stroke, indicating that he declined (see Editorial Note). Although Lists 1 and 2 were for TJ’s management of his invitations to mem-
bers of the House and Senate, the presence of Levi lincoln on 5 Nov., shows that there were often noncongressional guests at the table. fam.: that is, “family” (see Editorial Note). 1 Digit
727
written over “7.”
Appendix III Letters Not Printed in Full E D I T O R I A L
N O T E
In keeping with the editorial method established for this edition, the chronological series includes “in one form or another every available letter known to have been written by or to Thomas Jefferson” (Vol. 1:xv). Most letters are printed in full. In some cases a letter is not printed, but a detailed summary appears at the document’s date. Some other letters, such as brief letters of transmittal or acknowledgment, multiple applications or recommendations regarding a candidate for office, official correspondence that the president saw in only a cursory way, or documents that are nearly illegible, are described in annotation. Such items from the period covered by this volume are listed in this appendix. Using this list, the table of contents, and Appendix iv (Letters Not Found), readers may reconstruct Jefferson’s chronological epistolary record from 1 July to 10 Nov. 1804. From Uriah Forrest, 11 Aug. Noted at William Cranch and Nicholas Fitzhugh to TJ, 10 Aug. From Uriah Forrest, 17 Aug. Noted at William Cranch and Nicholas Fitzhugh to TJ, 16 Aug. To Simeon De Witt, 7 Sep. Noted at De Witt to TJ, 28 Aug. From Daniel Carroll Brent, 5 Oct. Noted at Petition of Charles Smallwood, [on or before 5 Oct.]. From George Jefferson, 8 Oct. Noted at TJ to Jefferson, 5 Oct.
728
Appendix IV Letters Not Found E D I T O R I A L
N O T E
This appendix lists letters written by and to Jefferson during the period covered by this volume for which no text is known to survive. Information about missing letters may be found in Jefferson’s Summary Journal of Letters. For incoming correspondence, he typically recorded the date that the letter was sent, the date on which he received it, the location from which it was dispatched, and an abbreviated notation summarizing the subject of the letter. In addition, his notations sometimes indicate the government department to which it pertained or to which he forwarded it: “N” for Navy, “S” for State, “T” for Treasury, and “W” for War. From James Oldham, 1 July; received 10 July from Monticello. From Theodore Foster, 2 July; received 7 July from Providence; notation: “to be Comr. loans.” From William H. Harper, 5 July; received 6 July from Alexandria. To Gabriel Lilly, 5 July; notation: “320. D. for Hope & Henderson.” From Thomas Martin, 6 July; received 20 July from Lexington, Kentucky; notation: “to be keeper Arsenal. W.” From Caesar A. Rodney, 6 July; received 10 July from Wilmington, Delaware; notation: “Shields, agent or Reciever.” From Christopher Ellery, 7 July; received 13 July from Newport; notation: “declines Commr. loans.” From Samuel Gardner, 7 July; received 20 July from West Greenwich, Rhode Island; notation: “Nichols Collectr. Newport.” From David Higginbotham, 8 July; received 17 July from Milton; notation: “the 320. to Lilly of July. 5.” To Martin Dawson, 9 July; notation: “100. D.” To Gabriel Lilly, 9 July; notation: “35. D. for Price &c.” To George Taylor, Jr., 9 July; notation: “500. D.” From David Bullock, 10 July; received 16 July from Louisa. From George Jefferson, 10 July; received 13 July from Richmond; notation: “balce. £69.4.4 = 230.70.” To Gabriel Lilly, 10 July; notation: “100. D. J. Peyton.” From Henry Sheaff, 10 July; received 13 July from Philadelphia; notation: “claret Washn. Sherry Monto. 82 + 50.25 = 132.25.” From George Taylor, Jr., 12 July; received 14 July from Philadelphia. From David Higginbotham, 13 July; received 19 July from Milton. To Anna Scott Jefferson Marks, 13 July. To George Hay, 14 July; notation: “with Henderson’s affidavit.” From Thomas Main, 14 July; received 16 July from “Little falls Potom.” To Thomas Appleton, 20 July; joined by a brace with letters written the same day to Stephen Cathalan, Jr., William Jarvis, and Joseph Yznardi, Sr., and notation: “2.plicates & 3.plicates of the bills of Exche.” To David Bullock, 22 July; notation: “ord. on G. & J. 433⅓.”
729
APPENDIX IV From William Curtis, 24 July; received 7 Aug. from Highgate, Gloucester County, Virginia. From “Postmaster,” 24 July; received 26 July from Washington. From Bishop James Madison, 26 July; received 6 Aug. from Williamsburg; joined by a brace with letter from Wilson Cary Nicholas, 5 Aug., and notation: “Saml. Travis to be mate of revenue cutter v. Parish resd.” To John Barnes, 29 July. To the Navy Department, 29 July; notation: “Love. Carr. Cooper.” From Elias Boudinot, 30 July; received 2 Aug. from Rosehill. From Thomas Leiper, 30 July; received 7 Aug. from Philadelphia; joined by a brace with letters from Elizabeth C. Leiper, 31 July, Bangor & Waterman, 1 Aug., William Jones, 2 Aug., and John Beckley, 3 Aug., and notation: “Callender Irvine vice Genl. Irvine. W.” From Thomas Lloyd, 30 July; received 7 Aug. from Philadelphia; notation: “Wm. Jones v. Irvine, & John Evans.” From George Booker, 31 July; received 7 Aug. from Hampton, Virginia; notation: “Armistead Rob. v. Chisman decd.” From Elizabeth C. Leiper, 31 July; received 7 Aug. from Philadelphia; joined by a brace with letters from Thomas Leiper, 30 July, Bangor & Waterman, 1 Aug., William Jones, 2 Aug., and John Beckley, 3 Aug., and notation: “Callender Irvine vice Genl. Irvine. W.” From Bangor & Waterman, 1 Aug.; received 7 Aug. from Philadelphia; joined by a brace with letters from Thomas Leiper, 30 July, Elizabeth C. Leiper, 31 July, William Jones, 2 Aug., and John Beckley, 3 Aug., and notation: “Callender Irvine vice Genl. Irvine. W.” From Wade Hampton, 1 Aug.; received 28 Aug. from Charleston, South Carolina. From Miles King, 1 Aug.; received 12 Aug. from Norfolk; notation: “Charles Jennings v. Chisman.” From Benjamin Rush, 1 Aug.; received 7 Aug. from Philadelphia; notation: “Richd Rush to be Secy. legn.” From John Barnes, 2 Aug.; received 7 Aug. from Georgetown. From William Jones, 2 Aug.; received 7 Aug. from Philadelphia; joined by a brace with letters from Thomas Leiper, 30 July, Elizabeth C. Leiper, 31 July, Bangor & Waterman, 1 Aug., and John Beckley, 3 Aug., and notation: “Callender Irvine vice Genl. Irvine. W.” From John Beckley, 3 Aug.; received 7 Aug. from Washington; joined by a brace with letters from Thomas Leiper, 30 July, Elizabeth C. Leiper, 31 July, Bangor & Waterman, 1 Aug., and William Jones, 2 Aug., and notation: “Callender Irvine vice Gen. Irvine. W.” From Andrew Ellicott, 3 Aug.; received 12 Aug. from Lancaster, Pennsylvania; notation: “Timy. Matlack v. Irvine. W.” To Anna Scott Jefferson Marks, 3 Aug. From John L. Boqueta, 4 Aug.; received 16 Aug. from Philadelphia. From Wilson Cary Nicholas, 5 Aug.; received 6 Aug. from Warren, Virginia; joined by a brace with letter from Bishop James Madison, 26 July, and notation: “Saml. Travis to be mate of revenue cutter v. Parish resd.” From Joseph Clay, 6 Aug.; received 11 Aug. from Philadelphia; notation: “Linnard to be v. Irvine. W.” From Benjamin Rush, 6 Aug.; received 14 Aug. from Philadelphia.
730
APPENDIX IV From Joseph Wheaton, 6 Aug.; received 12 Aug. from Washington; notation: “to be Superintt. v. Irvine. W.” From John Barnes, 7 Aug.; received 11 Aug. from Georgetown; notation: “250. D.” To Gideon Granger, 7 Aug. From William Linnard, 7 Aug.; received 11 Aug. from Philadelphia; notation: “to be Mily. Superintd & Indian Agent.” To John Ewing Porter, 7 Aug. From William B. Martin, 9 Aug.; received 21 Aug. from Providence; notation: “to be Commr. loans v. Bowen.” From William Pelham, 10 Aug.; received 18 Aug. from Boston. From Andrew Porter, 10 Aug.; received 16 Aug. from Philadelphia; notation: “Supt. v. Irvine.” From “Welch qu?,” 11 Aug.; received 14 Sep. from New Orleans. To Wilson Cary Nicholas, 12 Aug. To John Barnes, 13 Aug. From Return Jonathan Meigs, Jr., 13 Aug.; received 28 Aug. from Marietta. From Marten Wanscher, 13 Aug.; received 16 Aug. from Alexandria. To the War Department, 17 Aug.; notation: “Irvine. Orleans petn. Kennon.” To Horatio Turpin, 19 Aug. From Nicholas Daniel “et al.,” 20 Aug.; received 11 Sep. from Nassau, New Providence; notation: “S.” From Wilson Cary Nicholas, 21 Aug.; received 22 Sep. from Warren, Virginia; notation: “Collectr. Hampton.” To Wilson Cary Nicholas, 23 Aug.; notation: “Travis. Armistead. Brough. Broadie. Jones.” From John Wayles Eppes, 24 Aug.; received 1 Sep. from Eppington. From Thomas Butler, 27 Aug.; received 1 Oct. from Nashville; notation: “W.” From Walter Jones, Jr., 27 Aug.; received 22 Sep. from Alexandria. From the State Department; received 28 Aug.; notation: “Commns. blank for Orleans.” From Rachel Wirt, 28 Aug.; received 1 Sep.; notation: “N.” From Benjamin Lincoln, 29 Aug.; received 6 Sep. from Boston; notation: “21.58.” From John Smith of the War Department, 29 Aug.; received 4 Sep.; notation: “Ensign Peyton.” From James Ross, 31 Aug.; received 8 Sep. from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. From James Wilkinson, 3 Sep.; received 11 Sep. from Frederick, Maryland. From Martin Dawson, 6 Sep.; received 6 Sep. from Milton. From George Fowler, 6 Sep.; received 14 Sep. from Fairfax County; notation: “retd. to the writer at his request.” From Samuel Smith, 6 Sep.; received 11 Sep. from Baltimore; notation: “Jno A Morton to be Consul.” From Wilson Cary Nicholas, 13 Sep.; received 15 Sep. from Warren, Virginia. To Martin Dawson, 17 Sep. To Robert Kinnan, 17 Sep. From James Ross, 17 Sep.; received 22 Sep. from Lancaster, Pennsylvania; notation: “S.” From Martin Dawson, 20 Sep.; received 20 Sep. from Milton.
731
APPENDIX IV To Joseph Price, 20 Sep. From DeWitt Clinton, 21 Sep.; received 1 Oct. from New York. To Burgess Griffin, 21 Sep. From Anonymous; received 25 Sep.; notation: “G. Lilly.” From Cato West, 26 Sep.; received 24 Oct. from Mississippi Territory; notation: “S.” From John Harcum, 27 Sep.; received 3 Feb. 1805 from London; notation: “S.” From Bishop James Madison, September; received 7 Oct. from Williamsburg; notation: “Genl. Porter recommendd.” From John H. Craven, 1 Oct.; received 4 Oct. from Richmond. From David Higginbotham, 2 Oct.; received 7 Oct. from Milton; notation: “J. Perry’s ord. 100. D.” From John Page, 3 Oct.; received 6 Oct. from Richmond. From Marten Wanscher, 3 Oct.; received 4 Oct. from Alexandria. To Gabriel Lilly, 5 Oct. To George Taylor, Jr., 6 Oct. To James Dinsmore, 7 Oct. From George Taylor, Jr., “for W. Short,” 8 Oct.; received 11 Oct. from Philadelphia; notation: “500. D.” To John H. Craven, 11 Oct. To David Higginbotham, 11 Oct.; notation: “100. D. J. Perry.” To Gabriel Lilly, 11 Oct.; notation: “150. D. Hope. 50. D. Perry.” From James Dinsmore, 14 Oct.; received 16 Oct. from Georgetown. From David Higginbotham, 14 Oct.; received 16 Oct. from Milton. To Gabriel Lilly, 15 Oct. From David Phipps, 15 Oct.; received 22 Oct. from New Haven; notation: “to have commn. in navy.” From Joseph Anderson, 16 Oct.; received 31 Oct. from Jefferson County, Tennessee; notation: “Scott v. Gray.” To James Dinsmore, 17 Oct.; notation: “at Chas.T.” From William Duane, 17 Oct.; received 20 Oct. from Philadelphia; joined by a brace with letter from Thomas Leiper, 17 Oct., and notation: “agt Porter for Irvine” and “as successor to Genl. Irvine.” From George Jefferson, 17 Oct.; received 21 Oct. from Richmond. From Thomas Leiper, 17 Oct.; received 20 Oct. from Philadelphia; joined by a brace with letter from William Duane, 17 Oct., and notation: “agt Porter for Irvine” and “as successor to Genl. Irvine.” To Gabriel Lilly, 17 Oct. From Charles S. Shoenstein, 17 Oct.; received 17 Oct. from Georgetown; notation: “W.” From Gabriel Lilly, 18 Oct.; received 24 Oct. From Joseph T. Scott, 19 Oct.; received 21 Oct. from Philadelphia; notation: “Blair Mclanachan v. Irvine.” To Gabriel Lilly, 22 Oct.; notation: “Moran.” From Gabriel Lilly, 22, 23 Oct.; received 30 Oct. from Monticello. To Gabriel Lilly, 28 Oct. From Joseph Miller, 28 Oct.; received 22 Nov. from Yellow Springs, Ohio. From “Gaines Ren. I.,” 31 Oct.; received 27 Nov. from Augusta; notation: “for post in army W.”
732
APPENDIX IV From Hugh Chisholm, 1 Nov.; received 6 Nov. from Monticello. From Gabriel Lilly, 1 Nov.; received 6 Nov. From Richard Valentine Morris, 1 Nov.; received 9 Nov. from Morrisania, New York. From Benjamin Hawkins, 3 Nov.; received 4 Dec. from Flint River. From Joseph Pollard, 3 Nov.; received 6 Nov. from Thornsburg, Virginia. From Anonymous, 6 Nov.; received 14 Nov. from Providence, Rhode Island; notation: “against Ellery.” From David Higginbotham, 8 Nov.; received 13 Nov. from Milton. From David Higginbotham, 9 Nov.; received 13 Nov. from Milton. From the House of Representatives, 9 Nov.; received 9 Nov.; notation: “the enterprize on the Phili.” From the Treasury Department; received 10 Nov.; notation: “E. Burroughs Keeper Lt. H. at N. Pt. Comft.” To Gabriel Lilly, 10 Nov. From Gabriel Lilly, 10 Nov., received 13 Nov. from Monticello.
733
Appendix V Financial Documents E D I T O R I A L
N O T E
This appendix briefly describes, in chronological order, documents pertaining to Jefferson’s finances during the period covered by this volume that are not printed in full or accounted for elsewhere in the volumes. Many of the items included for this volume are checks drawn by TJ on his account with the Washington branch of the Bank of the United States, consisting of printed forms with blank spaces for the date, name of payee, and amount. The Memorandum Books are cited when they provide additional information about a transaction. Check on Office of Discount and Deposit, Washington, for $100 payable to the Reverend Andrew T. McCormick, 2 July (facsimile in Charles Hamilton Auction No. 53, 21 Oct. 1971, Lot 1; printed form, with blanks filled by TJ; signed by TJ). TJ recorded this transaction as payment for “my subscription to him for 1802 & 1803” (mb, 2:1130). Check on Office of Discount and Deposit, Washington, for $150 payable to William A. Burwell, 17 July (MS in CSmH; printed form, with blanks filled by TJ; signed by TJ). TJ recorded this transaction as payment for one quarter of Burwell’s salary (mb, 2:1132). Order on Jonathan Smith, cashier of the Bank of Pennsylvania, to pay John Barnes the half-year dividend on Tadeusz Kosciuszko’s 20 shares of the bank’s stock, Washington, 21 July (MS in PHi; in TJ’s hand and signed by him as attorney for Kosciuszko; note on verso by Barnes to pay to the order of Edward Penington; signed by Thomas Pope for Penington acknowledging receipt of $320 in payment). Check on Office of Discount and Deposit, Washington, for $100 payable to Étienne Lemaire, 22 July (facsimile in Sotheby Parke Bernet catalog, Sale No. 4387, 3 June 1980, Lot 943; printed form, with blanks filled by TJ; signed by TJ). TJ recorded this transaction as partial payment of Lemaire’s accounts from 15 to 20 July, totaling $181.75, for provisions, stores, President’s House furniture, “servts. John,” and “miscellanies” (mb, 2:1133). Invoice by Davenport & Tucker for $15.15 for two sheets of glass shipped on the brig Rover, Henry Luce master, by order of Richard Cutts on TJ’s account, Boston, August 1804 (MS in MHi; signed by Cutts acknowledging payment on 5 Dec. 1804; endorsed by TJ: “Cutts Richd. acct for glass”). Charges include $10 for two sheets of glass, $5.05 for box and porterage, and 10 cents for wharfage. TJ recorded his payment to Cutts at 7 Dec. (mb, 2:1142).
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INDEX Abbadie, Jacques: Traité de la divinité de nôtre seigneur Jesus-Christ (Jacques Abbadie), 304, 305n Abbottstown, Pa., 386 Abolition Society of Wilmington, Del., 509 Abraham, Francis: letter from, 406; asks TJ for a loan, 406; identified, 406n Acerbi, Giuseppe: Travels through Sweden, Finland, and Lapland, 645 “Acquisition of Louisiana” (Michael Fortune), 179 Active (brig), 363-5 Active (ship), 595, 596n Acton, Sir John Francis Edward, 317, 321 Adair, James: History of the American Indians, 484, 485n Adams, Abigail: letters to, 129-31, 379-81; letters from, 3-6, 243-5, 600-1; closes correspondence with TJ, xii, l, 601; sends condolences to TJ, xlix; criticizes TJ’s support of Callender, xlix-l, 4-6, 243-5, 600; portrait by Stuart, xlix-l, 354 (illus.); TJ defends his conduct to, xlix-l, 129-31, 379-81; and TJ’s removal of J. Q. Adams, xlix-l, 244-5, 379-80, 600-1; defends J. Adams’s late-term appointments, 3-4 Adams, Dudley, 542n Adams, Fort, 206 Adams, George, 542n Adams, George, Jr., 542n Adams, John: conduct as president defended by A. Adams, 3-4; late-term appointments, 3-4; TJ’s respect for, 129-30, 244, 380, 381; criticism of, 372; appointments by, 392; comments on A. Adams’s correspondence with TJ, 601n; administration compared with TJ’s, 619-21; and use of military volunteers, 674, 675n Adams, John Quincy: and Stuart’s portrait of A. Adams, l; removal as bankruptcy commissioner, 244-5, 379-80, 600-1; member of Eighth Congress, 719; dines with TJ, 724 Adams, Louisa Catherine Johnson, 58n Adams, Samuel, 112, 113n Adams family (London), 541, 542n Addington, Henry, 217n
Adet, Pierre Auguste: letter from, 145-7; Leçons élémentaires de chimie, 145-7; sends news, thanks TJ for his letter, 145-7 agriculture. See Jefferson, Thomas: Agriculture Airth, David, 218n Alabama, 110n Alabama River, 184 Albemarle Co., Va.: courts, 49; sheriff, 436n; Fredericksville Parish, 482n; St. Anne’s Parish, 482n Albion (brig), 109 alcoholism: among Indians, 78; in navy, 144; writings on, 204, 205n; among office seekers, 389, 401, 650-1 Alexander, Alexander, 392-3 Alexander, Alexander, Jr., 392 Alexander, Charles, 138 Alexander, Nathaniel, 718, 723 Alexander, Robert, Jr., 193n, 245-6, 689, 702 Alexander, William (S.C.): letter from, 392-3; seeks appointment, 392-3 Alexander I, Emperor of Russia: letter from, 654-5; intercedes on behalf of crew of the Philadelphia, x, 198n, 423, 424n, 654, 655; reputation as a reformer, 196-7; bust of, sent to TJ, 198, 704; protests French infractions in Baden, 217n; encourages trade, friendly relations with U.S., 654-5 Alexandria, Bank of, 368, 369n Alexandria, D.C.: jail, 137, 224-5; yellow fever in, 235. See also District of Columbia Alfred (ship), 222 Algiers: annuity payments to, 28n; relations with U.S., 176, 665; and plague, 404 Alien Enemies Act (1798), 621 Alien Friends Act (1798), 347, 349n, 372, 583, 621 aliens. See immigrants Allard, Mr. (Orleans Terr.): characterized, 16, 18, 20 Allen, Benjamin, 294 Allen, Hannibal M., 692 Allen, Mr., 686, 706 Alling, Hotchkiss & Co. (New Haven, Conn.), 75n alphabets, 628-9
735
INDEX Alston, Willis, 718, 721 American Academy of Arts and Sciences, 552n American Annals (Abiel Holmes), 551-2 “American Citizen” (pseudonym): reports Spanish payments to Wilkinson, 555; identified as Derbigny, 555n American Citizen and General Advertiser (New York): reports on British frigates at New York, ix-x, 402-3; offered for sale, 151, 152n. See also Cheetham, James American Colonization Society, 214n American Crisis (Thomas Paine), 699 American Mercury (Hartford), 336n American Philosophical Society: receives communications, specimens, 148, 251; elects members, 198n; TJ as president of, 251; Magellanic Fund, 251n American Revolution: veterans of, 220, 260n, 276n, 286n, 300n, 361n, 407n, 458, 481n, 497n, 569n, 699-701, 709n; Loyalists, 255n; and Indians, 377; bounty certificates, 699; and Del., 699-701 American War, from 1775 to 1783, with Plans (Charles Smith), 573n Amsterdam, 270, 271-2 Anacostia River, 674, 676 Andalucia, Spain, 512, 513 Anderson, Isaac, 717, 721 Anderson, James, 392 Anderson, Joseph: and T. Vandyke, 453; as reference, 700-1; member of Eighth Congress, 719; dines with TJ, 721; letter from cited, 732; recommends aspirants for office, 732 Andrews, George, 136, 333 Andrews, Robert, 112, 113n Anmours, Charles François, Chevalier d’: letter from, 446-7; retirement on the Ouachita River, 446-7; introduces Derbigny, 447 Annales du muséum national d’histoire naturelle, 645 Annapolis, Md., 457, 458 Annuaire de la librairie (William Fleischer), 502n Annual Message to Congress (1804): drafting of, 662-80; consideration of, by Congress, 663, 685n, 697; text of, 680-4; delivered in writing, 685n; publication of, 685n, 697 Annual Register (Great Britain), 556
anonymous letters: advise on preventing yellow fever, 55-6; in verse, responding to Louisiana memorial, 382; cited, 732, 733. See also Jefferson, Thomas: Correspondence Antwerp, 255n, 517n Apple Creek, 81, 89 Appleton, Thomas: letter to, 114-15; letter from, 331-2; payments to, 69, 114-15, 123, 222, 729; forwards vines, plants to TJ, 112, 114, 331-2; and wine for TJ, 112, 114-15.; sends news on Barbary affairs, 177, 354n, 362; and Timpanari Viganò, 331, 499; and Ceracchi claim, 332; promotes trade with Ottomans, 354n; reports misuse of U.S. passports, 354n; and Cathalan’s dispute with W. Baker, 422n; letter to cited, 729 apprenticeships, 699 Archer, John, 717, 722 Archer, Sterling, 661, 704 architecture: Doric order, 166n; Tuscan order, 166n; roofs, 342-5. See also Capitol, U.S.; Jefferson, Thomas: Architecture; Monticello; President’s House Arcturus (horse), 196 Argand, François Pierre Ami, 540 Argote, Antonio de: characterized, 16-17, 19, 20 Argus (revenue cutter), 267n, 346n Argus (U.S. brig), lii “Aristides” (pseudonym). See Van Ness, William P. Arkansas Post, 80, 81 Arkansas River: exploration of, 30, 99, 103-4; as boundary, 81, 571 Armistead, Francis, 154, 180 Armistead, Robert, 201, 203, 228, 730, 731 Armstrong, Gen. John: letters to, 67-8, 120; letter from, 174; appointed minister to France, xiii, 77, 112, 688, 702; commission, letter of credence for, xiii, 216, 219n, 253, 289-90, 363n; and Delabigarre, 24, 263; carries letters for TJ and others, 67-8, 69, 120, 121, 536; TJ recommends schools, lodgings in Paris to, 67-8; TJ’s opinion of, 112; TJ recommends P. S. Du Pont to, 120; polygraph for, 132, 509n; departure for France, 171, 174, 315, 316n; change in form of
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INDEX French government, 216, 219n, 290n, 363n; and American debt claims, 393 Army, U.S. See War, U.S. Department of art: physiognotrace, xlix, 298; busts, 114, 115n; engravers, 246-7; restoration of, 272n; miniaturists, 324n Arthur, John, 524, 526 Articles of Confederation, 565 Ast, William Frederick: letter to, 159; and TJ’s insurance premium, 159, 162 astronomy: astronomical instruments, 107-8, 437-8, 441n, 540, 541, 542n, 694; calculation of longitude, 108, 437-8, 441n, 693-4; equinoxes, 251; meridian line at Washington, D.C., 539-42 Atticus, 317, 321 attorneys: dominated by Federalists, 310-11, 622; accused of charging excessive fees, 621-2. See also Jefferson, Thomas: Law; law Attwater, Elnathan, 75n Atwater & Daggett (New Haven, Conn.), 75n Augustus, Emperor, 627 Aurora (Philadelphia), 230, 231, 233n, 548, 696, 697n. See also Duane, William Austin, David: letter from, 488; seeks appointment, 488 Austin, Moses, 684-5n Austin, William: Letters from London, 260 Auvergne, France, 240, 241 Babbit, Thomas, 661, 704 Bache, William, 229-30, 690, 702 Backus (Bacchus), Elijah, 170, 476, 485, 690, 703 Baden, Electorate of, 217n Badollet, John, 525n, 688, 703 Bailey, Robert: letter to, 366; TJ orders plants and seeds from, 366; death of, 408, 430 Bailey, Theodorus: letter from, 37; and champagne for TJ, 37 Bainbridge, William, 275n Baker, Dr. William (Md.), 7n, 139-41, 273, 333 Baker, Jerman (1776-1828), 400 Baker, John H., 141n
Baker, John Wayles, 400n Baker, Martha Bolling Eppes, 400n Baker, Philip Thomas, 140-1 Baker, Samuel H.: letter from, 6-7; seeks appointment, 6-7; identified, 7n Baker, William (Boston), 417-18, 422n Baldwin, Abraham: potential minister to Spain, 464; as committee member, 663; dines with TJ, 715, 720, 724n, 726; member of Eighth Congress, 719 Baldwin, Daniel: letter from, 496-7; seeks appointment, 406-7, 603; recommends removal of navy yard, 496-7, 533; identified, 497n; veteran’s pension of, 574-5 Baldwin, Henry, 412, 413n, 480 Baldwin, Michael, 414, 546 Baldwin, Mr., 170 Baldwin, Phebe: letter from, 574-5; seeks financial assistance, appointment for husband, 497n, 574-5, 603; identified, 575n Baldwin, Simeon, 715, 716, 724 Ballston Spa, N.Y., 117 Baltimore, Md.: Osage delegation visits, xlix, 78, 103; construction of gunboats at, 33, 395, 396n; navy yard at, 63-7, 117; poor relief in, 159n; art restorers, 272n; Fells Point, 289n; Saint-Domingue refugees at, 289n; yellow fever at, 289n; French frigate at, 301; booksellers, 502n; academies, schools, 519; paper hanging factors, 596n; stationers, 596n Bangor & Waterman (Philadelphia): letter from cited, 201n, 730 Bank of America (New York), 429n Bank of the United States: TJ’s account with, 58, 59n, 60-1, 62, 124n, 273, 274n, 333, 482n, 734; counterfeit notes of, 190n, 694, 706; Washington branch, 190n; Charleston branch, 329n; Baltimore branch, 706 bankruptcy, 7n, 108n, 516, 640-1 Bankruptcy Act (1800), 379-80, 381n bankruptcy commissioners, 121n, 245n, 379-80 Banks, Sir Joseph, 438, 441n Baptists, 374n, 481n, 550n Barbary states. See Algiers; Morocco; Tripoli; Tunis Barcelona, Spain, 422n Barclay, Thomas (British consul), 265-7, 301n
737
INDEX Bard, David, 717, 723 Baring, Alexander, 536, 537n Baring, Francis, & Company (London), 537n, 673 Baring Brothers & Company, 507 Barker, John, 159, 230 barley, 612 Barlow, Joel: letter from, 261; introduces T. A. Emmet, 261 Barnes, John: letters to, 245, 332-4; letter from, 272-4; will no longer make payments for TJ, 58, 117; handles financial transactions, 131, 136, 141n, 162, 245, 259, 273, 274n, 646; letters to cited, 162n, 274n, 730, 731; TJ’s account with, 272-4, 332-4; invited to Monticello, 274, 334; letters from cited, 334n, 730, 731; and W. Short’s affairs, 416, 646; handles shipments for TJ, 443; dines with TJ, 715; and Kosciuszko, 734 Barnes, Joseph: letter from, 497-500; and gunboats for Mediterranean squadron, 354n; sends news of European, Mediterranean affairs, 497-500; seeks appointment, 498 Barnes, Joseph (Pa.), 691n Barnet, Isaac Cox, 218n, 252, 253-4 Barney, Joshua, 253-4, 281, 423, 424n Barr, William, 340n Barriere, Miguel Bernardo, 35, 47-8 Barron, Samuel, 274, 497, 499, 500n, 675n Barry, John, 66 Barton, Benjamin Smith, 143, 144n, 293 Basel, Switzerland, 272n Bassett, Thomas, 687 Bastrop, Baron de (Philip Hendrik Nering Bögel), 90-1, 157 Batavian Republic, 195n Bates, Frederick, 170, 207n, 476, 485, 690, 703 Bates, Tarleton, 206, 207n Bath, Maine, 517 Baton Rouge: candidates for appointment residing near, 22, 239; establishment of post office at, 206, 256, 292-3; “riot” in vicinity of, 217n; and Kemper riot, 608, 629, 630n; immigrants to, 636n; Montesano, 636n Batture case, 57n Bayard, James A., 543 Bayou Manchac. See Iberville River Bean, Thomas, 33, 93
Bean, Timothy, 33 Beaufort, N.C., 286, 288, 367 Beaussier, André, 178n Beaussier, Bonaventure, 175-8, 275n, 421-2n Beckley, John: letter from, 589-90; letter from cited, 201n, 730; and court costs, 232; recommends aspirants for office, 589-90; and polygraphs, 626, 660 Bedford, Pa., 384 Bedford Co., Va. See Poplar Forest (TJ’s estate) Bedinger, Daniel, 222 Bedinger, George M., 718, 723 Beecher, Thaddeus, 75n beekeeping, 416 Beers, Elias, 75n Beers, Isaac, 75n Belden, H., & Co. (New Haven, Conn.), 75n Bellechasse, Joseph Deville de Goutin: candidate for appointment, vii-viii, 169, 234, 305, 307, 309, 328, 350, 355, 652-3, 712; characterized, 20, 22; recommended for appointment, 23, 238, 309 Bellini, Carlo, 112, 113n Bennett, Caleb Prew, 701 Benson, Henry, 354n Bergerac, Mr., 472-3n Berlin, Conn., 41 Berquin-Duvallon, Pierre Louis: Vue de la colonie Espagnole du Mississippi, 645 Betton, Silas, 715, 723 Biddle, Charles, 548 Big Black River, 570 Big Bone Lick, 407n Bingham, Anne Willing, 376 Bingham, William, 376 Bird, John: letter from, 585; rumored appointment as Wilmington collector, 585 Bishop, Abraham: letter from, 75; forwards memorial of New Haven merchants, 75; denies authorship of “Aristides” pamphlet, 206, 207n; Oration, in Honor of the Election of President Jefferson, 338n; appointed collector, 590n Bishop, Phanuel, 716, 722 Bishop, Samuel, 76n, 590n Blachly, Cornelius C.: letter from, 628-9; sends plan for American
738
INDEX alphabet to TJ, 628-9; identified, 628-9n Blachly, Ebenezer, Jr.: letter from, 406-7; recommends D. Baldwin, 406-7, 533; identified, 407n Blackburn, Gideon, 175, 178-9, 278 Black Dog (Osage leader), 74n Blackledge, William, 718, 722 blacks: free, 33, 141n, 209-10, 217n, 452n, 610n, 623-5; refuse to join labor riot, 33; seek pardons, 209-10; and Louisiana memorial, 217n, 254n; racial tensions with whites, 254n; criticism of free blacks, 452n; returned to bondage, 610n; possible removal of, to Louisiana or Haiti, 624; in Va., 624. See also slaves Black Sea, 185n, 354n, 424n Blackston, William, 559 Bladensburg, Md., 58n Blagden, George, 164-5, 166n, 187, 467, 541 Blatchly. See Blachly, Cornelius C. Bloodworth, Timothy, 367 Bloomfield, Joseph, 464, 497 Blount, Thomas, 169 Boanson, John: letter from, 148; asks TJ to forward a letter, 148 Bodley, Thomas: letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569 Bolling, Mary Jefferson (Mrs. John Bolling; TJ’s sister), 98n Bollmann, Justus Erich: letter to, 549-50; letters from, 514-15, 612; candidate for appointment, 77; and Burr conspiracy, 449n; and wine for TJ, 514-15, 549, 612, 691; offered, declines appointment as commercial agent at Santo Domingo, 549-00, 612 Bologna, 113n Bomford, George, 587-8 Bonaparte, Jerome, 186n, 396n Bonaparte, Lucien, 418 Bonaparte, Napoleon. See Napoleon, Emperor of the French Bond, Lewis, 169 Booker, George: recommends aspirants for office, 203, 730; letter from cited, 204n, 730 books: booksellers, 260n, 502n, 573n; price of, 645. See also Jefferson, Thomas: Library; Library of Congress Boqueta, John L.: letter from cited, 730 Bordeaux, France, 28, 57, 186n, 270, 271, 393n, 515-18, 707
Bordley, John Beale, 248, 249n Boré, Jean Étienne: letter from, 449-52; candidate for appointment, vii-viii, 169, 234, 305, 307, 328, 350, 355, 652-3, 712; and Louisiana memorial, viii, 449-52, 607; resigns as mayor of New Orleans, 14, 49; criticizes plan of territorial government, 14n; characterized, 15, 17, 19, 22, 607; supporters of, 18, 19; criticism of, 49-50; and threat of slave insurrection in New Orleans, 411n; declines appointment, 712 Boré, Jeanne Marguerite Marie Destréhan, 607 Borromeo, Carlo (Saint), 639 Boston: navy yard at, 64, 65, 493n; painters, engravers, 246-7; booksellers, 260n; libraries, 260n; publishers, 260n; slop shops, 331n; construction of gunboats at, 395; marine hospital, 493n; elections in, 532; Republicans in, 532, 646; Federalists in, 646 Boston (British frigate), 301n botany, 143-4, 163-4 Boudinot, Elias: letter to, 175; and support for G. Blackburn’s mission, 175, 178, 179n, 278; letter from cited, 175n, 730 Bouis, Pascal Vincent, 87 Bouligny, Dominique: characterized, 19, 20 Boulton, Matthew, 44 Bourbon family, 200, 223-4 Bourne, Sylvanus: letter from, 325; criticizes establishment of French empire, 186n; and German, Swiss immigration to U.S., 186n, 198; and Winckelblech, 325 Bours, John, 294 Bowdoin, James, 77, 463-4 Bowen, Jabez, 201, 429, 731 Bowie, Walter, 717 Boyd, Adam, 628, 717, 722 Boyd, Hugh, 467 Boyle, John, 718, 723, 727 Bracken, John, 403 Braddock, Gen. Edward, 220 Bradford, John: letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569 Bradley, Abraham, Jr.: letter from, 384-7; signs New Haven memorial, 75n; explains changes to mail routes, 335, 336n, 384-7; Map of the United States, 596n
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INDEX Bradley, Philip B.: letter from, 452-3; seeks extinguishment of Indian title to “Sufferers’ Land,” 452-3 Bradley, Stephen R., 719, 722, 726 Bradley, William (British naval officer), 301n Bradley & Mulford (New Haven, Conn.), 75n Bramah, Joseph, 133n Brand, Joseph, 131, 162 Brandywine Creek, 10, 11, 509n Breckinridge, John: letter from, 586; recommends aspirants for office, 586; dines with TJ, 715, 720; member of Eighth Congress, 719 Bremen, Germany, 219n Brent, Daniel (clerk): letter from, 193; forwards list of recommendations, 193; applications to, for appointments, 550n Brent, Daniel Carroll: letter to, 131; letter from, 245-6; and justices of the peace for Washington, 131, 193, 245-6; supplies stone for public buildings, 467; forwards pardon petitions and recommendations, 486n, 604n; letter from cited, 486n, 728 Brent, John, 170, 690, 702, 711 Brent, Robert, 71-2n, 246 Brent, William (1775-1848), 141n Breuil, Francis, 357-8 Brewer, John, 446, 457, 465, 489, 490 Briggs, Caleb, 26n Briggs, Hannah Brooke: informed of husband’s situation, 461 Briggs, Isaac: letters from, 334-5, 459-61; asked to purchase scientific, mathematical instruments, 60-1, 188n; advises on appointments, 169; surveys post road between Washington and New Orleans, 184, 260, 334-5, 459-61, 555; information on Miss. Terr. politics, 188; travels to Washington, 188n; visits Monticello, 188n, 555; and J. Briggs, 226n; asks TJ to write to his wife, 461; and meridian line at Washington, D.C., 539-41 Briggs, Joseph: letters from, 226, 237-8; death of, ix, 411; health of, 217n; acknowledges receipt of letters, 226; identified, 226n; forwards Claiborne’s recommendations, 237-8, 308-9, 313n Bristol, R.I.: collector at, 673
Brobson, James: letter from, 656; seeks appointment, 509, 656 Brodie, David, 228, 474, 476, 690, 702, 731 Bronough, Mr. (supercargo of the Rebecca), 418-19 Brooks, Samuel, 637-8, 686, 706-7 Brooks, William S., 517n Broome, John, 150 Brough, Mr., 731 Brown, Charles: petition for pardon, 209-10, 227n; pardoned by TJ, 210n, 303 Brown, Henry, 303, 304n, 311, 313, 326, 375 Brown, James (Ky.): letter to, 120; letter from, 291-2; offered, accepts appointment as secretary of Orleans Terr., 120, 209, 233, 291-2, 306, 328, 350, 355, 478, 689, 712; candidate for appointment, 168, 170; travels to New Orleans, 555 Brown, John (Ky.): letter from, 209; sends news of Ky. elections, 209; member of Eighth Congress, 719; dines with TJ, 721 Brown, John (Scottish physician), 287, 288, 289n Brown, Rives & Co., 436 Brown, Robert (Pa.), 717, 721 Brown, Scipio: seeks pardon, 227; pardoned by TJ, 227n, 303 Brown, William (collector of New Orleans): recommended as Trist’s successor, 303, 304n, 326, 330, 375, 520-1; considered for appointment, 537-8, 542, 613-14; appointed collector, 616 Brownson, John, 692 Bruce, Phineas, 716, 724, 725n Bryan, Joseph, 718, 720 Bryon, David H., 480 Bryon, John, 480 Buchan, William: Domestic Medicine, 55 Buckland, William, 458n Buenos Aires, 255n, 468 Builder’s Universal Price Book (John Evans), 520 Bulloch, Archibald, 617 Bulloch, William B., 617-18 Bullock, David: letter from cited, 729; letter to cited, 729 Burchmore, John, 422n Burford, Mr., 333 Burke, Edmund, 373
740
INDEX Burkhard, Johann Gottlieb: Elementary or Fundamental Principles of the Philosophy of Natural History, 573 Burr, Aaron: dines with TJ, xii, 721, 726; duel with Hamilton, xii, l-li, 105n, 118, 144; and J. B. Prevost, 124-5n; and Cheetham, 149-50; and Delacoste’s museum, 195n; and Van Ness’s pamphlet, 206, 207n; flees indictments, 410; western conspiracy of, 449n, 651n; and J. Swartwout, 489n; and D. Baldwin, 496, 497n; president of Senate, 719 Burr, Theodosia Bartow Prevost, 124n Burrall, Jonathan, 28n Burras, Mr. (Short tenant), 416 Burritt, Abel, 75n Burroughs, Elzy, 733 Burwell, William A.: as legal witness, 140-1; carries items for TJ, 162, 252; prepares drafts, fair copies, 578, 591, 593n; and delivery of annual message, 685n; delivers messages to Congress, 703n, 704n; salary, 734 Butler, Pierce: letter from, 468; orders wine, 156, 423n; and Burr, 410n; recommends aspirants for office, 468 Butler, Robert: letter from, 533-4; and claim regarding schooner Eliza, 533-4, 603; identified, 534n Butler, Thomas: letter from cited, 731 Butler, Thomas V., 37, 333 Butler, William, 718, 723 buttons: manufacture of, 40-1 Cabell, Samuel J., 88 Cabinet of Natural History (New York), 194-5, 221-2 Cabrera, Joseph: letter from, 468-73; claims diplomatic immunity, 468-73; identified, 473n Cadiz, Spain, 186n, 468, 511, 512, 513, 695n Caisergues, Francis: candidate for appointment, vii, 169, 234, 305, 653; characterized, 16, 18, 20, 21n, 23 Caldcleugh & Thomas (Philadelphia): letter to, 613; letters from, 595-6, 685-6; and lamps for TJ, 595-6, 613, 685-6; identified, 596n Caldwell, John (Ky.), 209n Callender, James Thomson: criticized by A. Adams, 4-6, 600; pardoned by TJ, 4-6; receives financial assistance from
TJ, 5-6; Prospect Before Us, 6n, 129; TJ defends his support for, 129-31, 243 Callier, James, 687 Callier, John, 686 Callis, Cleon M.: navy appointment for, 24-5, 77-8, 94-5, 115, 371n Callis, William O.: letter to, 115; letter from, 24-5; seeks navy appointment for son, 24-5, 77-8, 94-5, 115, 371n Cambrian (British frigate): impressments by, 85, 127, 218n, 301n, 556; blockades French frigates, 396n; defies state and federal laws, 578 Cambridge, Mass., 552n Camden, battle of, 699 Campbell, David: letter from, 453-4; criticizes conduct of W. MacRea, 453-4, 658 Campbell, George W., 719, 722, 726 Campbell, John (army officer), 453-4, 658 Campbell, John (Md.), 717, 724 Campoformio, Treaty of, 317, 321-2 Canada: boundaries, 435n; fur and peltry trade, 635 Cantrelle, Michel: characterized, 20, 22; candidate for appointment, 169, 306, 307, 328, 350, 355, 652-3, 712; declines appointment, 712 Cape Girardeau, 80, 81, 285-6, 286n Cape Girardeau District, 81, 82, 89-90 Cap-Français, Haiti, 186n, 289n Capitol, U.S.: praise for, 10, 11; riotous behavior by laborers, 33, 71-2; slave laborers at, 33; House chamber, 164, 467, 483-4; roof, 164; materials for, 164-5, 187, 467; statement of expenditures on, 164-5; workmen, 164-5, 467, 483; walls, 165-6, 187, 483-4; columns, 166n; bricks, 467; stonework, 467; schedule of work for, 483-4; and meridian line at Washington, D.C., 539, 541; criticism of Latrobe’s management of, 696-7 Caracas, 476n Caraminico, Prince of (Francesco d’Aquino), 317, 321 Carey, Mathew, 163 Carlisle, Pa.: postal service to, 186n, 384-7 Carlos (Charles) III, King of Spain, 98n Carlos (Charles) IV, King of Spain: letters to, 522, 527-8; letter of recall for C. Pinckney, 522; letter of credence for Monroe, 527-8
741
INDEX Carmichael, William, xlvii Caroline (schooner), 76n Carondelet, 80 Carpenter, Mr., 525, 526n Carpenter, Thomas: payments to, 273, 333 Carpentier, Lewis D., 456 Carr, Dabney (TJ’s nephew), 373-4 Carr, John H., 129, 730 Carr, Peter (TJ’s nephew), 221, 435 Carrick, James: letter from, 449-52; and Louisiana memorial, 449-52 Carroll, Daniel (of Duddington), 245, 246n Carroll, Bishop John, 441n cartographers, 300n Casa Calvo, Sebastián Calvo de la Puerta y O’Farill, Marqués de: continued presence in Orleans Terr., 255n, 281, 363n, 364, 479, 535; and post road through W. Fla., 257, 292; and reinforcement of Spanish posts, 364; and Kemper riot, 608, 630n; and Folch’s visit to New Orleans, 639-40, 704 Casey, Levi, 718, 723 Castor (TJ’s horse), 195 Cathalan, Eulalie (S. Cathalan, Jr.’s, daughter), 418, 420-1 Cathalan, Stephen, Jr.: letters to, 68-9, 120-1; letters from, 156, 175-8, 417-23; payments to, 61, 68-9, 96n, 120-1, 222; TJ orders groceries, wine from, 68-9, 109, 156, 421, 422-3n; forwards letters for TJ, 69; sends reports on negotiations with Tripoli, 175-8, 372n, 421-2; forwards Mediterranean news to Madison, 275n, 281; dispute with W. Baker, 417-18, 422n; defends his conduct as consul, 417-23 Cathalan, Stephen, Sr., 120 Cathcart, James Leander, 275n Catholic Church: divisions in, 35; in Orleans Terr., 35, 47-8, 312, 313. See also Ursuline Nuns of New Orleans cats, 31 Cavelier, Antoine, Jr.: characterized, 16, 18, 20 Cavelier, Zenon, 20 Cayenne, French Guiana, 592 Cayes, Haiti, 289n Ceracchi, Giuseppe, 114, 115n, 332 Ceracchi, Therese, 332 Cevallos (Ceballos) Guerra, Pedro: delays ratification of claims conven-
tion, ix, 301n, 397-8, 430-1, 466, 507; protests establishment of Mobile collection district, ix, 301n, 397-8, 430, 431n, 507; and Spanish acquiescence to Louisiana Purchase, 684n Chaddock, Calvin, 26n Chamberlain, William, 715, 716 Chambers, Ephraim: Cyclopædia, 415 Chambers, Joseph: letter from, 606; recommended as Indian negotiator, 12; irregularities in recess commission for, 487-8; and death of E. Kirby, 606; identified, 606n; appointed register of land office, 689, 703, 712 Chambersburg, Pa., 384 Champlain, Lake, 202n Charles II, King of England, 336n Charleston, S.C.: gunboats for, 127; Saint-Domingue refugees at, 185, 186n; cotton manufacturing in, 192n; banks, 329n; and French privateers, 354, 363, 533-4; construction of gunboats at, 395; Republicans in, 528-9; collector at, 574 Charles Town, Va., 367-8 Charlottesville, Va., 274, 449n, 605n Charming Mary (schooner), 132 Chastellux, François Jean de Beauvoir, Marquis de, xlvii Chattahoochee River, 460 Chauncey, Isaac, 661, 703 Chavaniac (Lafayette estate), 503 Chavaniac, Charlotte de Lafayette, baronne Guérin de, 503 Cheetham, James: letter from, 149-52; seeks printing contracts, 149-52, 180 Chesapeake and Delaware Canal Company, 519, 599, 695 Chesapeake Bay, 67 Chew, Beverly: characterized, 20, 23 childbirth. See women children: death of, 57, 58, 105; of immigrants, 93n; illnesses, 97, 160, 521; TJ’s correspondence with, 152, 654; illegitimate, 154, 155n; cared for by slave nannies, 160; slave, 160; education of, 519 Chile, 113n China: nankeen cloth of, 331-2 Chisholm, Hugh: letter from cited, 733 Chisman, Mount Edward, 201, 203, 228, 476, 730 Chittenden, Martin, 716, 723 Chouteau, Auguste: and White Hair, 72n; and Dog Soldier, 73, 74n;
742
INDEX partnership with brother, 523n; deputy to carry Louisiana District petition, 635, 648, 649n, 657-8 Chouteau, Auguste Pierre, 87 Chouteau, Pierre: letters from, 522-4, 656-8; and Osage delegation, xi, 73, 74n, 103, 275, 522, 523, 656-7; and peace medals, xlviii; and White Hair, 72n; appointed Indian agent, 103-4, 523n, 571; description of, 264; seeks exclusive trade with Osage, 264, 523n; reports troubles with Sacs, 523-4, 656, 657; identified, 523n Chrestien, Jean André: letter from, 262-3; De la méthode iatroliptice, 262-3; identified, 262-3n Christianity: missionaries to Indians, 175, 178-9, 278, 577-8, 588-9; restorationists, 550n; and slavery, 609-10. See also Jefferson, Thomas: Religion Christianville, Va., 189 Church, Angelica Schuyler, xlvii Churchman, Frederick, 225n Churchman, Mary, 225n Cicero, 317, 321, 558n Cincinnati, Ohio, 577-8n, 651 Cincinnati, Society of the, 701n Cisalpine Republic, 316, 317, 320-1, 322 Clagett, Clifton, 715, 723 Claiborne, Cornelia Tennessee, ix, 442, 477 Claiborne, Elizabeth W. Lewis: death of, ix, 442, 477; health of, 238, 303-4, 311, 359, 388, 411 Claiborne, Ferdinand L., 169 Claiborne, Richard: letter from, 83-4; invents boat propulsion system, 83-4; sends news of Miss. Terr. land office, politics, 83-4 Claiborne, Thomas, 717, 723 Claiborne, William C. C.: letters to, 52-4, 101-2, 306-8, 613-14; letters from, 7-9, 303-4, 308-14, 326-7, 359-60, 387-8, 411-12, 442, 477-80, 586-7, 606-8, 630-1, 639-40, 704-5; appointed governor of Orleans Terr., vii, 168, 170, 233, 306, 328, 350, 355, 442n, 477, 689, 712; advises on appointments, viii, 23-4, 52, 170n, 237-9, 303, 308-11, 313n, 326-7, 355, 387-8, 478-9, 652-3n, 711; reports on Louisiana memorial to Congress, viii, 7-9, 217n, 254-5n, 312-13, 606-7; health of, ix, 8, 226, 237-8, 303, 308, 311, 313, 359, 388, 477-8; correspon-
dence with secretary of state, 7, 9n, 35-6, 48n, 252, 281, 363-4, 442, 640; Louisianians not ready for selfgovernment, 7-8, 102n, 217-18n, 313, 607; salary and compensation for, 7-9; appointments by, 14n, 412-13, 586-7; supporters of, 23; and Catholic Church, 35, 47-8, 217n, 312, 313, 639; correspondence with Folch, 35, 36n, 48, 312; investigates French prizes at New Orleans, 35, 48, 363-4n; St. Julien case, 35, 47, 48n; expenses as Louisiana commissioner, 35-6, 48; authorizes charter of Louisiana Bank, 52, 310; communications with TJ miscarry, 52, 308-9, 478; supports TJ’s checkerboard city plan for New Orleans, 53-4, 311; advises on location of Lafayette’s land grant, 54, 102, 313, 614; observations on Louisiana boundaries, 54; correspondence read in Congress, 101-2, 312-13; forwards TJ’s letter to Ursuline Nuns, 102, 226; and postal service to New Orleans, 206, 257, 292-3; discontent among free blacks in New Orleans, 217-18n, 254n; supports ban on slave trade, 217-18n, 254-5n, 607; criticizes E. Livingston, 217n; complains of continued influence of France and Spain in Orleans Terr., 255n, 363n; as reference, 293; reports death of H. B. Trist, 303, 313, 613; arrangements for Orleans Terr. government, 306-8, 328, 652; sends news, observations on Orleans Terr., 308-14, 586-7, 606-8, 639-40; criticizes speculation by Louisianians in W. Fla. lands, 309, 312, 705; and Indian affairs, 311-12, 640; reports on yellow fever in New Orleans, 359-60, 388, 411, 640; threat of slave insurrection in New Orleans, 411-12; death of wife and child, 442; wishes to take leave of absence, 477-8; inaugural address by, 479, 480n; studies French language, 479; takes oath of office, 479; rumored death of, 532; requested to obtain Spanish land records, 598; tensions, threat of war with Spain, 607-8, 640, 704-5; downplays significance of Kemper riot, 608, 630n; and TJ’s letter to J. M. Gelston, 613-14; forwards specimens from Richard King, 630-1; criticized in Esquisse, 705
743
INDEX Clark, Christopher, 718, 722 Clark, Daniel: candidate for appointment, 3, 169, 234, 305, 307, 328, 350, 355, 652-3, 712; supports memorial to Congress, 7-8, 217n, 254-5n, 312; characterized, 19, 20, 22; provides information on population of Louisiana, 82n; speculates in W. Fla. lands, 312, 705; and tensions at Natchitoches, 640; declines appointment, 712 Clark, William, xi, 650n. See also Lewis and Clark expedition Claxton, Thomas, 595-6, 613 Clay, Henry, 569n Clay, John, 551, 568-9, 586 Clay, Joseph (Pa.): letter from cited, 213n, 730; member of Eighth Congress, 717; dines with TJ, 720, 726 Clay, Lucretia Hart, 569n Clay, Matthew, 717, 722 Clermont I (Osage leader), 72n Clinton, DeWitt: letter to, 488-9; and printing contracts for Cheetham, 150-1; and Delacoste’s museum, 195n; and British frigates at New York, 218n, 252, 301n; seeks removal of J. Swartwout, 488-9; and Moreau, 489; letter from cited, 489n, 732; advises on appointments, 603 Clinton, George, Jr., 721, 725n Clopton, John, 717, 722 cloth: linen, 162; sheeting, 252; cotton, 331-2; nankeen, 331-2; silk, 475-6 Clouet, Louis Brognier de: characterized, 16, 18, 20, 23, 479; candidate for appointment, 168, 169, 170, 307, 328, 350, 355, 479; letter from cited, 363n Clyde River, 255n coal, 635. See also household and personal articles Cobbett, William, 131n, 556 Cocke, William: letter from, 37-8; describes Independence Day among Chickasaws, 37-8; and compensation for Tenn. militia, 361n; member of Eighth Congress, 719; dines with TJ, 721 Cockle, John: letter from, 393; seeks settlement of claim on France, 393; identified, 393n coins: Roman, 627-8; counterfeit, 637; eagles, 637; French, 637 Colbert, George, 37, 38n
Colbert, James, 37, 38n Colbert, James Logan, 38n Colbert, Levi, 37, 38n Colbert, Melinda. See Freeman, Melinda Colbert Colbert, Susan (Susannah) James, 37-8 Colbert, William, 37, 38n Colden, Cadwallader: History of the Five Indian Nations of Canada, 484, 485n Coleman, William, 118, 166-7 Coles, John: letter from, 412; and timber for TJ, 412 Coles, John (Boston): letter from, 246-7; Emblem of the United States of America, 246-7; identified, 247n Collins, Theophilus, 239, 309 Collis, Solomon, 75n Colorado River, 47, 50 Columbia, Bank of (Georgetown): TJ’s account with, 273, 274n, 333 Columbia College, 628n Columbian Centinel (Boston), 102n, 131n Columbus, Christopher, 552n Comfort (schooner), 426n Commodore Thomas Truxtun’s Vindication (Thomas Truxtun), 268-70, 302 compasses, 107-8 Compendio della storia geografica, naturale, e civile del regno del Chili (Juan Ignacio Molina), 112, 113n Condit, John: as reference, 496; member of Eighth Congress, 719; dines with TJ, 721, 726 Congregationalists, 552n Congress, U.S. Continental and “Olive Branch Petition,” 166-8 House of Representatives and L’Enfant’s claim, 55; contested elections to, 336, 337n; appointment of members criticized, 337; preservation of peace in U.S. ports and harbors, 578-9; gunboats, 579; arming merchant vessels, 591-2; and Treasury estimates for 1805, 633n; forms quorum, 654, 663; members return to Washington, 695; and burning of the Philadelphia, 733; message from cited, 733. See also Annual Message to Congress (1804)
744
INDEX Congress, U.S. (cont.) Legislation arming merchant vessels, x, 592; preservation of peace in U.S. ports and harbors, x, 579; cargoes of distressed vessels, 31-2n; and navy appropriations, 34; compensation for diplomats, 48; and L’Enfant’s claim, 55; land grant for Lafayette, 59; and sale of public lands, 63, 70, 642-3; division, government of Louisiana, 123, 237n, 284-5, 649n; and settlement of American debt claims, 537n Senate messages to, 702-3, 703-4; and TJ’s nominations, xiii, 690-1n, 693n, 703n, 704n, 711n; arming merchant vessels, 592; transcripts of Senate records, 602; delays in forming quorum, 654, 663; members return to Washington, 695. See also Annual Message to Congress (1804) Connecticut: elections in, 206, 429; calls for new state constitution, 335, 336n, 337-8; “Sufferers’ Land,” 452-3. See also Federalists; New Haven, Conn.; Republicans Connecticut Courant (Hartford), 335-6 Connecticut Gazette (New London), 338n Conrad, Frederick, 717, 723, 726 Conrad, John, & Co. (Philadelphia), 291n Constellation (U.S. frigate), 63, 66, 129n, 500n Constitution (U.S. frigate), li, lii, 65, 275n, 499, 500n Constitution of the United States: and presidential appointments, 3; judicial review, 380; separation of powers, 380; freedom of the press, 380-1, 601; criticism of, 564-7; and apportionment of Congressional representatives, 609; Bill of Rights, 609; and slavery, 609-10; admired by Alexander I of Russia, 654, 655. See also Twelfth Amendment Cook (Cooke), Mr., 515-16 Cooke, John (Va.), 467 Cooper, Henry, 75-6
Cooper, Thomas, 144 Cooper, Thomas, Jr., 144, 730 Cooper’s Run Church, Ky., 374n Copenhagen, 628n Cork, Ireland, 190 corn, 200 Cornells, Alexander (Oche Haujo), 460, 461n Cornwallis, Charles, Lord, 556 Cosway, Maria Hadfield, xlvii, 495 Cottineau, Dennis, 457 cotton: yellow, 331-2; cultivation of, 332, 642 Cours historique et élémentaire de peinture ou Galerie complette du museum central de France (Antoine Michel Filhol), 645, 646n Courts, U.S. Circuit District of Columbia, 59-60, 137-9, 209-10, 224-5, 449n, 604-5; appointments to, 121, 449n District Orleans Terr., 106, 121, 207, 355; appointments to, 121 Public Opinion proper sphere of judicial branch, 380; threats to judicial independence, 532, 533n Supreme Court payments to, 28n; and Bank of Alexandria, 368, 369n courts-martial, 202n Cowes, England, 518n cowpox. See smallpox Cox, George, 661, 703 Cox, John, 273, 274n, 333 Coxe, Tench: and divisions among Pa. Republicans, 229-33, 341; electioneering by, 413 Craig, Reuben, 297 Cranch, William: letters from, 209-10, 227; and pardons, 138, 209-10, 227, 391, 486, 501; and Burr conspiracy, 449n Craven, John H.: dispute with Lilly, 521, 616; letter from cited, 732; letter to cited, 732 Crawford, Lewis, 625 Creighton, William, Jr., 414, 546 Crèvecoeur, Michel Guillaume St. John de, xlvii
745
INDEX crime: riot, 33, 71-2, 92, 93, 224-5, 391, 604-5n; perjury, 59-60, 492n, 559-60, 567n, 687n; stealing, theft, 139n, 209, 227; counterfeiting, 189-90, 637-9, 694-5, 705-6; fraud, 234-5; falsifying wills, 348; slander, 380-1; forgery, 417-18, 422n, 472-3n; assault, 422n, 485, 604-5n; larceny, 604. See also law; murder; pardons; smuggling Croft, Edward, 142-3, 161 Croghan, Col. George, 102-3, 127-8, 160 Cropper, John, 547n Crowley, Mark, 33, 72n Crowley, Thomas, 33, 93 Crowninshield, Jacob: letter to, 127; letter from, 84-6; sends fish to TJ, 84-7, 127, 137n; observations on politics, foreign affairs, 85-6, 127; candidate for appointment, 170; dines with TJ, 715, 720, 726; member of Eighth Congress, 716 Cuba, 86 Cuivre River, 523n Cumings, Jonathan: letter from, 500; seeks silver mine concession, 500 Cummichael, Mr. (Md.), 347-8 Curling, Robert B., 194-5n Curtis, William (Va.): letter to, 248-9; letter from, 299; and estate of Ariana Jenings Randolph, 248-9, 299; identified, 249n; letter from cited, 249n, 730 Cushing, Isaac, 418-21, 422n Custis, Edmund: letter from, 575; seeks appointment, 575 Cutler, Manasseh, 716, 723 Cutts, Anna Payne, 95 Cutts, Richard: letter from, 95; and glass for TJ, 95, 734; member of Eighth Congress, 716; dines with TJ, 720, 724n Cybele (French frigate), 396n Cyclopædia, or An Universal Dictionary of Arts and Sciences (Ephraim Chambers), 415 Daggett, John, 109 Dallas, Alexander J.: letters to, 127-8, 160; letters from, 102-3, 128; and Croghan’s case, 102-3, 127-8, 160; and Cabrera’s claim of diplomatic immunity, 229-30; and divisions among Pa. Republicans, 229-30; and sheriffs’
fees, 232; and eviction of Irvine’s widow, 401; law students of, 413n; as reference, 691n Damen, Herman Hendrik, 257 Dana, Francis, 532, 533n Dana, Samuel W., 716 Daniel, Nicholas: letter from cited, 731 Danish West Indies, 75-6n Darnell, William, 517n Daugherty, Patrick, 58n Davenport, John, 716, 724 Davenport, Samuel, 340n Davenport & Tucker (Boston), 734 Davidson, James, Jr., 190n Davidson, Samuel: claim regarding alterations to plan of Washington, 76-7, 91-3 Davis, George (surgeon), 274, 275n, 281, 372n Davis, John, 245n, 601n Davis, Thomas T.: letter from, 447-8; seeks information on jurisdiction of Indiana Terr. judges, 447-8 Davis, William A., 150-1, 152n Dawes, Thomas, Jr., 600, 601n Dawson, John: carries letter to TJ, 556, 557; member of Eighth Congress, 717; dines with TJ, 721, 726 Dawson, Martin: letters to cited, 729, 731; letters from cited, 731 Day, Henny: letter from, 501; petition for pardon, 501; pardoned by TJ, 501n Dayton, Jonathan, 402, 720, 723 Deakins, Capt., 492 Deane, Mr. (Philadelphia), 369 Dearborn, Dorcas Osgood Marble, 200, 279 Dearborn, Henry: letters to, 178-9, 200-1, 212-13, 256, 314-15, 349-50, 570-2, 631-2, 691-2; letters from, 87, 278, 279, 388-9, 510, 583, 587-8, 594-5, 596-7, 598, 641, 658, 670, 692 Indian Affairs and public funds for G. Blackburn’s mission, 175, 178-9, 278; and P. Chouteau, 264; and Choctaw debts, 283, 596-7; TJ’s Memorandum on Indian Policy, 570-2; and Indian land cessions, 596-7; settlement of eastern Indians in Louisiana, 597; and Indian trade, 670; and conflict among the Creeks, 691-2
746
INDEX Dearborn, Henry (cont.) Military Affairs recommends commissions, promotions, 87, 510, 587-8, 598, 641; and W. Irvine’s successor, 200-1, 212-13, 220, 256, 257, 278; and Du Ponts’ gunpowder works, 212-13; and Dunbar and Hunter expedition, 250, 251n; and Louisiana District commandants, 314-15, 388-9, 631-2, 670; redistribution of troops in the west, 349; and TJ’s arrangements for Orleans Terr. government, 349-50; compensation for Tenn. militia, 361n; and Groves, 440; and discharge of John Bryon, 480; attends cabinet meetings, 507; and bill for preservation of peace in harbors and waters, 578, 583; arming of U.S. merchant vessels, 591, 594-5; and bill to regulate the clearance of armed vessels, 594-5; and cases of Vandyke and J. Campbell, 658; advises on annual message to Congress, 662-3, 670; sends list of recess appointments, 692-3. See also War, U.S. Department of Personal Affairs health of, 200, 279; visits Maine, 200, 220, 279, 291; receives profile of TJ, 279; returns to Washington, 495 Politics as reference, 26n, 557; preparing to leave Washington, 105; and elections in eastern states, 279; rumored dissatisfaction with TJ’s administration, 531 Deblois, Lewis, 549 DeButts & Purviance (Leghorn), 419 Debuys, Gaspard: characterized, 16, 19, 20; candidate for appointment, 169, 234, 305, 307, 328, 350, 355, 652-3, 712 Decatur, James, 499, 500n Decatur, Stephen, Jr., lii, 661, 703 Declaration of Independence: TJ as author of, 119n; and answer to Lord North’s Conciliatory Proposal, 167 Decout, Jean: letter to, 367; letter from, 286-9; offers medical services to U.S., 286-9, 367; identified, 289n Defense of the Legislature of Massachusetts, 531-2, 533n
Dei provvedimenti annonarj (Giovanni Fabbroni), 455 De Krafft, Charles, li, 163, 201 De Krafft, Frederick Cornelius, li-lii Delabigarre, Peter: and character sketches of Orleans residents, 14, 21, 24, 263; characterized, 20, 21, 263 Delacoste, John C.: letter to, 221-2; letter from, 194-5; seeks support for natural history museum, 194-5, 221-2; identified, 195n DeLacy, John Devereux, 363n, 364 De la méthode iatroliptice, ou observations pratiques sur l’administration des remèdes a l’extérieur, dans le traitement de maladies internes (Jean André Chrestien), 262-3 Delano, Jonathan, 455-6, 474 De la Planche, Jean Lazare, 145, 146, 147n De la possibilité d’eteindre les dettes publiques (N. D. F. de Saint-Paul), 611 Delaware: Cape Henlopen lighthouse, 154, 155n, 179-80; elections in, 232n, 542-3, 585; Swedes in, 232n; abolition societies in, 509n; millers, 509n; black population of, 542; Kent Co., 542, 543n; New Castle Co., 542, 543n, 701n; Sussex Co., 542, 543n; merchants, 699-700; state constitution, 699-700, 701n; and American Revolution, 699-701; legislature, 700, 701n; notaries public, 700, 701n; militia, 701n; Society of the Cincinnati in, 701n. See also Federalists; Republicans; Wilmington, Del. Delaware, Bank of, 701 Delaware Bay, 66 Delaware River, 43, 66 Demerara, 195n De natura rerum (Titus Lucretius Carus), 317, 322, 325n Denmark, 218n, 301n, 628n Denna, Mr. (Lancaster, Mass.), 170 Dennis, John, 717 Denniston, David, 149 Denon, Vivant: Voyage dans la Basse et la Haute Égypte, 172 Denoon, Charles, lii Dent, Charles, 33, 71, 93 Dent, Hatch, 365-6 Dent, John H., 661, 704 Derbigny, Pierre (Peter) Augustin Bourguignon: candidate for appointment, vii, 169, 305, 307, 328, 350,
747
INDEX Derbigny, Pierre (Peter) Augustin Bourguignon (cont.) 355, 478, 652-3; characterized, 17, 19, 20, 23, 447, 535; deputy to carry Louisiana memorial, 23, 24n, 255n, 449, 451, 478, 535, 536n, 653n; presumed author of anonymous letter, 555n Desbureaux, Charles François, 288-9n Desilets, Mr. (Orleans Terr.): characterized, 19, 20 Des Moines River, 625 Dessalines, Jean Jacques, 288-9n Destréhan, Jean Noël: candidate for appointment, vii, 168, 234n, 305, 307, 328, 350, 355, 478, 652-3; characterized, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 535; deputy to carry Louisiana memorial, 24, 255n, 449, 451, 478, 535, 653n Detroit: land office at, 169, 170, 476, 485, 689, 690, 703; collector at, 207n DeVille, Charles, 37 Dewhurst, Edward, 75-6n De Witt, Simeon: letter from, 300; sends map to TJ, 300; identified, 300n; letter to cited, 300n, 728 Dexter, Samuel, 4, 6n D’hébécour, Mr. (Orleans Terr.): characterized, 18, 20, 21n Dickerson, Mahlon: offered appointment as U.S. attorney for Orleans Terr., 106, 153, 154-5n, 168, 170, 227-8, 233, 279, 307, 350, 355, 412, 689, 712; considered for U.S. attorney general, 180, 181, 201, 216, 263, 327, 412; health of, 227 Dickey, John, 397n Dickinson, John, 112, 167, 558, 656, 701 Dickinson, Philemon, 358 Dickson, William: dines with TJ, 715, 723, 727; member of Eighth Congress, 719 Dictionnaire universel d’agriculture (François Rozier), 475, 476n Didon (French frigate), 396n Dinsmoor, Silas, 283, 360, 571, 597n Dinsmore, James: TJ sends instructions to, 137n, 344n; and R. Richardson, 191, 226, 290; housejoiner at Monticello, 226, 427; and G. Fitz, 407; TJ’s memorandum of tasks for, 427; letter from cited, 732; letters to cited, 732 Direct Tax (1798), 142, 161, 621 disease. See illness and disease
District of Columbia: courts, 59-60, 137-9, 209-10, 224-5, 449n, 604-5; U.S. attorney, 172-3, 189-90, 203, 213-14, 689, 702, 712. See also Alexandria, D.C.; Georgetown, D.C.; Washington, D.C. Dixon, John (Alexandria), 138 Dobrée, Thomas, 172n Dobson, Thomas, 290, 291n Dodge, James, 661, 704 Dog Soldier (Soldat du Chien, Osage leader): letter to, 95-6; receives peace medal, xlviii, 73, 74n, 96; speech by, 73-4; identified, 74n; assured of TJ’s friendship, 95-6 Doherty, George: letter from, 360-1; seeks compensation for militia service, 360-1; identified, 361n Domestic Medicine (William Buchan), 55 Donaldson, William, 238, 309 Donath, Joseph: letter from, 76; TJ orders glass from, 76, 252; payments to, 333 donkeys, 97, 98n Donoughue (Donnahoo), Patrick, 33 Doolittle, Amos B., 279n Dorsey, Dr. (Md.), 564 Dorsey, John Sword, 499, 500n Dorsière, Eugene: characterized, 15, 17-18, 19, 20, 22; candidate for appointment, 169, 305; recommends aspirants for office, 330n Dorville, Francisco: letter from, 449-52; and Louisiana memorial, 449-52 D’Oubril, Pierre, 185 Dougherty, Joseph: house of, 50-1; and death of R. Bailey, 408 Douglas, John Erskine, 301n Douglass, John, 230, 548 Douglass, Joseph (Md.), 547n Dover, Pa., 386 Dow, Angélica Monsanto, 24n Dow, Robert: candidate for appointment, vii, 169, 234, 305, 307, 328, 350, 355, 652-3, 712; characterized, 20, 22, 309; and Wilkinson, 24n; recommended for appointment, 238, 309; declines appointment, 712 Downs, Martin, 33 D’Oyley, Daniel, 142-3, 161, 228, 279, 574 Drake, Daniel, 577n Drake, Francis (British diplomat), 255n
748
INDEX Drake, Joseph, 75n Drayton, John, 392 Driver (British sloop of war), 301n, 396n Duane, William: and J. Sergeant, 228n; and divisions among Pa. Republicans, 229-30, 233n; assault on in 1801, 232, 233n; publishes TJ’s annual message, 685n, 697; advises on appointments, 732; letter from cited, 732. See also Aurora (Philadelphia) Dublin, 261 Dubuche (Dubouclet?), Mr. (Orleans Terr.), 239, 309 Duckett, Allen Bowie: letter from, 448-9; recommends aspirant for office, 448-9, 465; identified, 449n Duckett, John Bowie, 172-3, 214, 256 Duckett, Thomas, 449n Ducourneau, Simon: characterized, 17, 19, 20 duels, 233n, 243, 249n. See also Burr, Aaron; Hamilton, Alexander Duffy, Thomas (Thomas Rustic): letter from, 137-9; petitions for pardon, 137-9, 157, 171, 604-5; identified, 139n; pardoned by TJ, 139n, 605n Dufief, Nicolas Gouin: letter from, 443-4; offers books from Franklin’s library, 415n; Nature Displayed, 443-4; sends his book to TJ, 443-4 Dufour, John James, 63 Duhamel du Monceau, Henri Louis: Traité des arbres et arbustes, 645 Dumas, Joseph, 364 Dumfries, Va., 185 Dunbar, John D., 26n Dunbar, William: letter to, 103-4; letters from, 250-1, 534-6, 693-4; instructions for western expedition, 103-4, 105-6, 212; proposes exploration of the Ouachita River, 250-1; and speculation in W. Fla. lands, 314n; reports preparations for expedition, 534-6; characterizes deputation carrying Louisiana memorial, 535; reports on progress of expedition, 693-4. See also Dunbar and Hunter expedition Dunbar and Hunter expedition: G. Hunter joins, 250, 536; boat for, 250-1, 534-5, 693; preparation and supplies for, 250-1; soldiers join expedition, 534-5; astronomical observations, 535, 693-4; journals of, 693 Dundas, John, 225
Dunham, Barnabas, 40 Dunmore, John Murray, fourth Earl of, 168n, 205, 214 Dunn, James (Alexandria), 138 Duplantier, Armand Gabriel Allard: characterized, 20, 22; recommended for appointment, 23 Duplessis, Francis: characterized, 16, 18, 20, 309; recommended for appointment, 239, 309; recommends aspirants for office, 330n Du Ponceau, Peter Stephen, 364 du Pont, Victor Marie: letters to, 61, 213; letter from, 96; loan to French government, 11n; makes payments for TJ, 61, 68, 69, 96, 120-1; TJ forwards letter to, 213 Du Pont (de Nemours), Père, Fils et Compagnie, 96, 120-1 du Pont de Nemours, Éleuthère Irénée, 10, 11 Du Pont de Nemours, Françoise Robin Poivre, 10, 11 Du Pont de Nemours, Pierre Samuel: letters from, 9-11, 462-3; considers emigrating to Louisiana, 9-11, 462-3; loan to French government, 10, 11; promotes family gunpowder business, 10, 11, 212-13; and J. Armstrong, 120; and Louisiana Purchase, 120; TJ’s opinion of, 120 Duralde, Martin Milony, 239, 309 Durrett, John, 416, 417n Duvall, Gabriel: letters from, 153, 239, 340, 375; advises on appointments, 142; and I. Neufville, 153, 161, 239, 364, 375; sends circular letters, 186n; and Duckett, 256; and commissioner of loans for S.C., 315, 340; as reference, 458; carries pamphlets for TJ, 557; and J. F. Mercer, 568n Duvall, Lewis, 489, 491 Dwight, Thomas, 716, 723 Dyer, Henry O., 333 Dyer & Smith (Georgetown), 273, 274n Earle, John Baylis, 718, 723 Early, Peter, 718, 721, 726 East Berlin, Pa., 386 Eastern Branch. See Anacostia River Easton, Rufus, 168 Eaton, William, 136n, 282n Edgehill (Randolph estate), 105
749
INDEX education: secondary schools, 145, 146, 147n; academies, schools, 174n, 519, 605n; mathematics, 605; supported by public lands, 642 Edwards, Abraham, 693 Edwards, Pierpont, 77, 170, 338n Efau Haujo (Creek Indian), 460, 461n election of 1800, 4-6, 149 election of 1804: in Mass., 85, 144, 279, 335, 532; TJ’s explanations for seeking reelection, 111-12, 654; in Pa., 220-1, 548; in N.H., 279, 335, 350; TJ’s reelection expected, 462, 463, 499; no Republican opposition expected, 529; in Va., 708-9 Elementary or Fundamental Principles of the Philosophy of Natural History (Johann Gottlieb Burkhard), 573 Elements of Life, or, The Laws of Vital Matter (John Rush), 544-5, 605 Eliza (schooner; alias Divina Pastora), 533-4 Elizabethtown, Pa., 384-5 Ellery, Christopher: seeks appointment, 633; not reelected to U.S. Senate, 633-4; dines with TJ, 719; member of Eighth Congress, 719, 721, 726; declines appointment as commissioner of loans, 729; letter from cited, 729; criticism of, 733 Ellicott, Andrew: letter from cited, 213n, 730 Ellicott’s Mills, Md., 706 Elliot, James, 716, 723, 726 Ellis, Caleb, 351n Ellsworth, Oliver, 335-6 Elmer, Ebenezer, 717, 723 Emblem of the United States of America (John Coles), 246-7 Emery (Emory), Mr. (Orleans Terr.): characterized, 17, 19, 20 Emmet, Robert, 261n Emmet, Thomas Addis, 261 Enghien, Louis Antoine Henri de Bourbon, Duc d’, 255n Enquirer (Richmond), 539 Enterprize (steamboat), 46n Enterprize (U.S. schooner), lii, 282n Episcopalians, 295n Eppes, Elizabeth Wayles (Mrs. Francis Eppes, TJ’s sister-in-law), 97 Eppes, Francis (TJ’s brother-in-law), 98n, 112 Eppes, Francis Wayles (TJ’s grandson): health of, 97, 160, 195, 400, 654; and
Betsy Hemings, 160; TJ hopes will accompany father to Washington, 196 Eppes, John Wayles (TJ’s son-in-law): letter to, 195-6; letters from, 97-8, 160, 400; and Crowninshield, 86; offers horse to TJ, 97, 195-6; proposes exchange of land, 97; and TJ’s donkey, 97, 98n; and Melinda Colbert, 97-8, 195; sends news of family, plantation affairs, 97-8, 160; trip to Monticello delayed, 400; arrival in Washington, 654; stays at President’s House, 715; member of Eighth Congress, 717; letter from cited, 731 Eppes, Maria Jefferson (TJ’s granddaughter): health of, 97, 160, 400, 654 Eppes, Mary Jefferson (Maria, Polly, Mrs. John Wayles Eppes, TJ’s daughter): death of, xlix, 290; effect of death on TJ, 112 Eppington (Eppes estate, Chesterfield Co., Va.), 105, 521 Ernest, Matthew, 207n Erving, George W., 77, 281 Esquisse de la situation politique et civile de la Louisiane, depuis le 30 Novembre 1803, jusqu’au 1er. Octobre 1804. par un Louisianais, 705 Essai de géologie, ou Mémoires pour servir a l’histoire naturelle du globe (Barthélemy Faujas de Saint-Fond), 501-2, 525 Essai sur l’avantage des richesses fictives (N. D. F. de Saint-Paul), 611-12n Essex (U.S. frigate), 511, 513, 514n Etruria, 316, 320, 331 Euclid, 605 Eugene (French privateer), 363-5 Eugenia (ship): capture, recapture of, 216n, 265-7, 327, 345-6, 364 Europe: extreme weather in, 116-17 Eustis, William: letter from, 473-4; and elections in Mass., 144; as Secretary of War, 236n; potential minister to Spain, 464; forwards letter to TJ, 473-4; rumored dissatisfaction with TJ’s administration, 531; member of Eighth Congress, 716; dines with TJ, 720 Evans, John (builder): Builder’s Universal Price Book, 520 Evans, John (Philadelphia), 730 Evans, Oliver, 46n Ewalt, Samuel, 480
750
INDEX Ewing, Nathaniel, 170, 485, 525, 690, 703 Examination of the Various Charges Exhibited against Aaron Burr, Esq. (William P. Van Ness), 206, 207n, 488 Explanation of E. Hoppe’s Improved Sextant (Ebenezer Hoppe), 107-8, 437n, 477 Explication du système botanique de Chevalier von Linné (Antoine Gouan), 615n Extrait du catalogue des livres de fonds et d’assortiment (Charles Pougens), 282 Fabbroni, Giovanni: letter from, 455; Dei provvedimenti annonarj, 455 Fabius (ship), 382-3 Fahey, Mark, 33, 71, 93 Fairfax, Ferdinando: letter to, 390; letter from, 367-9; asks TJ for a loan, xii, 367-9, 390; offers to sell iron works to the government, 367-8, 390; letter from cited, 369n Fame (ship), 630 Farjon, Thérèse: letter to, 78-9; Ursuline Nuns property rights confirmed by TJ, 78-9, 102, 226 Farquhar, Richard, 198 Farthing, John H., 426 Faujas de Saint-Fond, Barthélemy: Essai de géologie, 501-2, 525 Faurie, Joseph: characterized, 15, 17, 19, 20, 23; recommended for appointment, 23; candidate for appointment, 234, 305; recommends aspirants for office, 330n Faurrat, Marc Antoine, 422n Favorite (ship), 28 Favorite (sloop), 252 Faw, Abraham, 225 Federalists: Federalist opposition gives TJ confidence, xi, 258; and TJ’s dinner guest records, xi-xii, 724-5n; and death of Hamilton, l, 107, 232, 302; in Mass., 26, 85, 206, 350, 530-3, 707; removal of, expected, urged, 26, 232, 302, 509, 543-4, 574, 585, 656, 700; and navy, 63, 67, 674, 676; printers, newspapers, 63, 67, 101-2, 104n, 118-19, 129-30, 131n, 150-1, 152n, 166-8, 180, 335-6, 511, 567, 647, 674, 696-7, 707, 709n; receive printing contracts, 75, 149-52,
180; in Miss. Terr., 83; accused of lies, misrepresentations, 85, 110, 111-12, 167, 206, 257, 511, 654; decline, demise of, 85, 110, 111, 127, 707-8; in N.H., 85, 350, 351n, 550, 707; and Louisiana, 101-2; print Claiborne’s letters, 101-2; and Osage delegation, 104n; attack TJ’s private affairs, 110; leaders irreconcilable, 110, 530, 707-8; and election of 1804, 111-12; influence TJ’s decision to seek reelection, 111-12, 654; and TJ’s involvement with “Olive Branch Petition,” 118-19; plan to separate eastern states from union, 127; in Conn., 206, 335, 336n, 337-8, 429, 707; in Pa., 220-1, 231, 232, 257-8, 302; seek to divide Republicans, 220-1, 257-8; benefit from Republican divisions, 231; recommended for appointments, 245-6; attorneys dominated by, 310-11, 622; possess more professional talents than Republicans, 310-11; find asylum in western territories, 311; in New England, 335; in N.C., 336, 337n; in Md., 347-8, 511, 559-64, 566; judiciary dominated by, 380, 532; fear ignorance of the people, 381; hope for war to regain influence, 433, 530; in S.C., 528-9, 573-4; clergy allied with, 530, 531-2; and Great Britain, 530, 566; encourage sectional divisions, 530-1, 533n, 708n; and Twelfth Amendment, 531, 533n; in Del., 542-4; criticism of, during Adams’s administration, 619-22; social intercourse with Republicans, 646-7; disapprove of newspaper attacks on TJ, 647; in Ohio, 651; and gunboats, 674; criticize Latrobe’s management of public buildings, 696-7; criticize TJ at public dinners, 707, 708n; and impeachment of judges, 708n; and Louisiana Purchase, 708n; in Va., 709n Fenner, Arthur, 429 Fenner, James, 634n Fenno, John, 130, 131n Ferdinand IV, King of Naples (and King of Sicily), 498 Ferebee, Thomas C., 690, 702 Ferguson, Hugh, 400 Ferrand, Louis, 549 Few, William, 77, 689, 702 Filhol, Antoine Michel: Cours historique et élémentaire, 645, 646n
751
INDEX Finch, Edmund, Jr., 75n Finch, Susannah Bolton: letter from, 88; asks TJ for money, 88; identified, 88n Finch, William, 88n Finch, William Bolton, 88n Findley, William, 717, 721, 726 Finlay, William M.: letter from, 251; forwards essay on equinoxes to American Philosophical Society, 251; identified, 251n fish: preservation of, 87; as food for slaves, 190. See also food and drink Fisher, William, 690 Fishkill, N.Y., 509n Fitz, Gideon: letter to, 407; letter from, 554-5; assists R. Claiborne with invention, 84; and recovery of mammoth bones, 407, 554-5 Fitzhugh, Nicholas: letters from, 209-10, 227, 604-5; and pardons, 60, 138, 209-10, 227, 391, 486, 604-5; and Burr conspiracy, 449n Fitzpartner (horse), 195 Fitzpatrick, Thomas: location of, unknown, 122, 126, 169, 410; appointed register, 170, 476, 485, 689, 703 FitzSimons, Thomas, 254n, 281 Flaherty, James, 33 Fleischer, William: letter to, 525-6; letter from, 501-2; forwards letter, book to TJ, 501-2, 525; identified, 502n; payment to, 525; TJ asks for titles and prices from, 525-6, 644, 645 Flint River, 459-61 Flora Boreali-Americana (André Michaux), 143, 645 Florence, 112, 331 Florence, Treaty of (1801), 316, 319, 321, 323, 325n Florida: W. Fla. claimed as part of Louisiana, ix, 185, 301n, 312; Spanish armed vessels in W. Fla., 36; calls to exchange part of Louisiana for, 47, 50, 409, 704-5; U.S. urged to acquire, 86, 466, 528n, 617; post road through W.Fla., 206, 256-7, 292-3; unrest among Americans in W. Fla., 217n, 358; land sales in W. Fla. by Spain, 309, 312, 313-14n, 705; Spanish forces in, 363n, 704. See also Baton Rouge, La.; Mobile, W. Fla.; Perdido (Perdigo) River flour, 11n Folch y Juan, Vicente: and Mobile collection district, 12, 35, 36n, 48,
312; and postal service through W. Fla., 206, 292, 293n; and reinforcement of Spanish posts, 364; and cargo of the Mary, 365; visits New Orleans, 639-40, 704-5 food and drink: fruit, 68; cod sounds and tongues, 87, 127, 136, 137n; halibut, 87, 127; butter, 93n, 190; strawberries, 112; cheese, 136, 215; sausages, 136; macaroni, 137; pecans, 137; prunes, 137, 383; sugar, 137; beef, 190; herring, 190; pork, 190; poultry, 341; preserved fruits, 382-4, 493; apricots, 383; peaches, 383; oranges, 492; almonds, 493; figs, 493. See also wine Forbes, John Murray, 186n Forfait, Pierre Alexandre: Lettres d’un observateur sur la marine, 556, 557n Forrest, Uriah: letters from cited, 210n, 227n, 728 Fortier, Jacques: letter from, 449-52; and Louisiana memorial, 449-52 Fortier, Michel (1750-1819): characterized, 16, 18, 20; and threat of slave insurrection in New Orleans, 411n Fortune, Michael: letter from, 179; “Acquisition of Louisiana,” 179 Fossett, Edith Hern (1787-1854, TJ’s slave), 408 Foster, John (mariner), 87 Foster, Theodore: seeks appointment, 77, 180, 729; letter from cited, 729 Fourth of July. See Independence Day Foutenet (Fontenot, Fonteneau?), Mr. (Orleans Terr.), 239, 309 Fowler, George: letter from, 576; asks for return of letter, 576; letter from cited, 576n, 731 Fowler, John, 719, 723 Fox, Josiah, 34 France Foreign Relations with Russia, 185n, 498; with Sweden, 185n, 498; and Electorate of Baden, 217n; with Spain, 432-3; with Germany, 498 bankruptcy, 516
Law
Navy frigates at New York, 396, 674-5; and harbor defense, 556, 557n
752
INDEX France (cont.) Politics and Government imperial government established, 186n, 216, 219n, 290n. See also Napoleon, Emperor of the French (Napoleon Bonaparte) Science and Learning system of secondary schools, 145, 146, 147n U.S. Relations with and crew of the Philadelphia, x, 275n; French privateers in W. Indies, x, 85-6, 127, 254n, 354, 363, 533-4, 578, 591, 664-5, 680; change in form of French government, xiii, 216, 219n, 253, 290n, 362-3; emigrants to U.S., 23-4, 110n, 143n, 193n, 195n; French prizes brought to New Orleans, 35, 36n, 363-5; American debt claims, 110n, 185-6, 199, 217-19n, 234, 252-4, 393, 423, 435, 537n, 677-9, 684; and Louisiana boundary, 185n; declining influence in Louisiana, 224; and British violations of U.S. neutrality, 253-4; impressments by French frigates, 301, 674-5; French privateers in Mediterranean, 418, 422n. See also Haiti (Saint-Domingue); Louisiana Purchase; New Orleans War with Britain alleged alliance between Britain and Bourbons, 200, 223-4; blockade of French frigates in U.S. ports, 254n; execution of the Duc d’Enghien, 255n Francis, Tench, 66 Francis II, Holy Roman Emperor, 498 Frankfurt am Main, 502n Franklin, Benjamin: and G. Croghan’s silver, 103, 127-8, 160; and “Olive Branch Petition,” 167; library of, 415; Franklin stove, 636 Franklin, Jesse, 719, 722 Franklin, William Temple, 128, 160, 415n Frazer, Mr.: letter from cited, 131n Frazier, James, 546-7 Fredericksburg, Va., 274 Freeman, Constant, 250, 251n, 411, 534 Freeman, John: asks TJ to purchase himself and Melinda Colbert, 97, 195; contract for TJ’s purchase of, 139-41,
273; manumission of, 139-41; description of, 141n; payments to, 141n Freeman, Melinda Colbert: engagement to John Freeman, 97-8, 195; offered to TJ, 97-8, 195 Freeman’s Journal and Philadelphia Daily Advertiser, 232n French, Daniel: letter from, 39-46; seeks support for steamboat plan, 39-46; identified, 46n French, Eben: letter from, 618; asks TJ for money, 618 French and Indian War, 377 French language: knowledge of, desired in Louisiana appointees, vii-viii, 9-11, 168-9, 238-9, 263, 307-8 Freneau, Peter: letters from, 34-5, 528-9; recommends aspirants for office, 34-5, 77n, 161, 228, 279-80, 315; introduces Moser, 528-9; sends news of S.C. elections, 528-9 Frere, John Hookham, 432, 435n Friends, Society of: and Indians, 178-9, 610n; in Va., 374n; in N.Y., 429n; and slavery, 429n, 610n; in Pa., 610n; in N.J., 628n “A Friend to Merit” (pseudonym): letter from, 489-92; advises on commissioner of loans candidates, 489-92 Fromentin, Eligius, 649n Fulton, Robert, 46n fur and peltry trade, 523n, 635 Gabriac, Mr., 421 Gadsden, Christopher, 392 Gaillard, John, 719, 721 Gaines, Edmund P., 26, 31, 306, 360n, 690, 703, 711 Gaines, Ren. I.: letter from cited, 732 Gallatin, Albert: letters to, 31-2, 70-1, 161, 179-80, 196, 201, 279-80, 327-9, 361-2, 474, 526, 632, 705-6; letters from, 25-7, 27-8, 57, 106-7, 141-2, 142-3, 153-5, 227-9, 263-7, 315-16, 345-6, 412-13, 455-6, 463, 480, 524, 536-7, 546-7, 555, 598, 603-4, 619, 629, 632-3, 642-3, 659, 670-1, 671-5, 676-7, 677-8, 678, 686, 694-5 Personal Affairs visit to New York, 27-8, 31, 105, 202; asked for assistance by poor, unemployed, 93, 480; asked to sit
753
INDEX expectations regarding Mediterranean squadron, 673; supports TJ’s gunboat policy, 674; and impressments, 674-5; and counterfeiting, 686, 694-5, 705-7. See also Treasury, U.S. Department of the
Gallatin, Albert (cont.) for Peale, 259; portrait of, 259n; returns to Washington, 315, 350, 355, 412 Politics favors removal of Federalists in New England, 26; observations on death of Hamilton, 107; opposes Alien and Sedition acts, 347, 349n Secretary of the Treasury advises on appointments, 24, 26, 106-7, 141-3, 153-5, 161, 169, 170n, 179-80, 181, 196, 201, 216, 227-9, 263-4, 278, 279-80, 315-16, 327-8, 412-13, 455-6, 463-4, 474, 547n, 619, 629, 632; arming of U.S. merchant vessels, 25, 264, 327, 671; cargoes of distressed vessels, 25, 26n, 31; Mobile collection district, 26, 671-2; sends lists of Treasury warrants, 27-8n; Louisiana boundaries, 50, 672; renewal of Gibson’s commission, 57; sale of public lands, 70-1, 106, 107n, 642-3; applications to, for appointments, 163, 228n, 316n; trade with western Indians, 264; and the Eugenia, 265-7, 327, 345-6; commissioner of loans for S.C., 315; defense of U.S. coasts and harbors, 361-2, 671; electioneering by federal officeholders, 413; list of candidates for minister to Spain, 463-4; as reference, 491; attends cabinet meetings, 507; and delinquent accounts, 524, 526, 546-7; condemnation of schooner Eliza, 533-4, 603-4; delivery of Louisiana Purchase stock, 536-7, 672-3; recommends removals from office, 546-7; accusations against Wilkinson, 555; forwards anonymous letter, 555; request for Spanish land records, 598; Treasury estimates for 1805, 632-3; duties on personal baggage, 659; advises on annual message to Congress, 662-3, 670-5, 676-8; repair of navy vessels, 663, 674; state of public finances, 663, 670-1, 676-8; use of military volunteers, 663, 674, 675n; discharge of public debt, 670-1, 676-8; claims convention with Spain, 671-2; appointment of Louisiana District commandants, 673; questions
Gallatin, Hannah Nicholson, 27 galleys, 709, 710n Gallo, Marzio Mastrilli, Marchese di, 318, 322 Galloway, William, 60n Gálvez, María Rosa de, 473n Gamble, James: letter from, 547-8; explains opposition to M. Leib, 547-8; requests information on Philadelphia prisoners, 548 gambling, 473n Gano, John S., 577n Gantt, Edward, 333 Gantt, William S., 467 Garland, William G., 690 Garrard, James, 374 Garrett, Alexander, 482 Garrity, Timothy, 33 Gates, Horatio: letter from, 556-7; observations on harbor defense, 556; recommends aspirants for office, 556-7; and battle of Camden, 699 Gavino, John, 218-19n, 252 Gazette of the United States (Philadelphia), 131n Gelston, David: letter from, 414; gives printing contracts to opposition newspapers, 149-52, 180; forwards items for TJ, 202, 414; and the Eugenia, 266-7n, 327, 328n; family of, 329n; and charts of New York harbor, 362 Gelston, John M.: letter to, 537-8; letter from, 329; and death of H. B. Trist, 329, 520-1, 537, 613; forwards petition of New Orleans merchants, 329, 613; identified, 329n; death of, 411, 613, 616; and recommendation of W. Brown, 537-8, 542, 613 Geneva, 145, 146 Genoa, Italy, 18, 173, 419, 695 Georgetown, D.C.: free blacks in, 209-10; postmaster, 474n George Washington (U.S. ship), 420 Georgia: land speculation, 41; and Twelfth Amendment, 274-5, 281; Franklin Co., 334; and French privateers, 354, 363; hurricanes in, 410; St. Simons Island, 410;
754
INDEX Clarksborough, 459; Yazoo land grants, 531; and Spanish possession of the Floridas, 617; U.S. attorney for, 617-18; counterfeiting in, 639n. See also Savannah, Ga. Germantown, battle of, 497n Germany: immigrants from, 62-3, 70-1, 186n, 502n; threatened by France, 498. See also Hamburg, Germany; Prussia Ghiselin, Reverdy, 563 Giannini, Anthony, 416, 417n Gibbs, Abraham, 143n, 497, 500n Gibbs, Caleb, 169, 314, 389, 711 Gibraltar, 173, 218-19n, 512, 513-14 Gibson, John, 57, 90, 689, 702, 711 Gibson & Jefferson: handles shipments for TJ, 76, 162, 346-7, 407, 482, 570; handles TJ’s business affairs in Richmond, 159, 482, 729; payments to, 273, 333, 482n; TJ’s account with, 475, 502-3, 518. See also Jefferson, George Gilchrist, Adam, 328-9n Giles, William Branch: letter from, 211; introduces W. Newsum, Jr., 211; elected to U.S. Senate, 221; member of Eighth Congress, 719; dines with TJ, 720, 726 Gillespie, James: declines dinner invitation, 715, 726, 727n; member of Eighth Congress, 718; death of, 722, 724n; dines with TJ, 722 Gillet & Townsend (New Haven, Conn.), 75n Gilman, Nicholas, 335, 351n, 440 Gilmer, George, 687 Gilmer, Peachy Ridgeway, 520 Gilmer, Rodominick H.: letter from, 686-7; seeks appointment, 686-8; claims acquaintance with TJ, 687; identified, 687n Gilmor, Robert, 418-19 Gilpin, George, 225 ginger, 190 Gireaudeau, Mr. (Orleans Terr.): characterized, 17, 19, 20 Girod, J. F., & Chol, 90-1 Glasgow, 255n, 695 glass, 76, 95, 137, 252, 734 Glatz, Germany, 515, 612 Goddard, Calvin, 716 Goddard, Ebenezer, 266, 267n, 346n Godoy y Álavarez de Faria, Manuel de, 647-8
Goetschius, John M., 695 Goforth, William, Jr., 650-1 Goldsborough, Charles W.: letter from, 222; forwards letters for TJ, 222 Goldsmith, Oliver, 499-500 Good Hope, Cape of, 268-9, 591, 595 Goodrich, Hezekiah, 338n Goodwyn, Peterson, 718, 721 Goosely, George, 426 Gordon & Co. (Jerez), 396, 397n Gore, Christopher, 659 Gothenburg, Sweden, 218n Gouan, Antoine: letter from, 614-15; sends writings, seeds to TJ, 614-15; identified, 615n Gourlay, Robert, 249n Grace, Walter, 346n Grand, Ferdinand, 128 Grand, Ferdinand, Jr., 128 Grand & Cie., 599n Granger, Gideon: letters from, 206-7, 335-6, 350-1, 429; advises on appointments, 75, 180, 310; and post road through W. Fla., 206, 256-7, 292; sends election news to TJ, 206, 335, 350, 429; establishment of post road between Washington and New Orleans, 206-7; forwards letters to TJ, 206-7; and J. W. Gurley, 310, 350; and changes to mail routes in Pa., 335, 336n, 384-7; sends news of New England politics to TJ, 335-6; letter to cited, 336n, 731; and Louisiana memorial, 350-1; and R.I. loan office, 429 Grant, Mr. (Albemarle Co., Va.), 687 Granville, John Carteret, first Earl of, 336, 337n Gratiot, Charles, 649n Gratiot, Charles, Jr., 87 Graves, France, 68 Gray, Edwin, 718, 721 Gray, George, 623n Gray, Thomas (Tenn.), 732 Great Britain Foreign Relations threat of war with Spain, 432, 434, 435n Navy British frigates in U.S. harbors, ix-x, 85, 127, 300-1, 354, 355, 364, 396, 402-3, 529-30, 556, 578, 629, 664, 671, 674-5, 680; blockades ports in
755
INDEX Great Britain (cont.) W. Indies, 85; blockades ports in Europe, 186n, 514-15, 707; and Haitian Revolution, 289n Politics and Government change of ministry, 217n, 403; journal of House of Commons, 414-15; and Sierra Leone Company, 623, 625n Science and Learning Board of Longitude, 438; patents, 438 U.S. Relations with violations of U.S. sovereignty, ix-x, 85-6, 127, 224, 253-4, 300-1, 328, 364, 578, 629, 663-4, 671, 674-5, 680; blockades in W. Indies, 85; interference with U.S. shipping, 85-6, 127, 216n, 218n, 265-7, 300-1, 327-8, 345-6, 354, 355, 364, 396; emigrants to U.S., 88n, 238; and trade with Ottomans, 354n; and Indian affairs, 377; convention on U.S. boundaries, 435n; trade with U.S., 442; resolution of debt claims, 659n, 671, 676-9, 684. See also impressment; Jay Treaty War with France alleged alliance with Bourbons, 200, 223-4; blockade of French frigates in U.S. ports, 254n; execution of the Duc d’Enghien, 255n Great Miami River, 588n Great Track (Grand Piste, Cashesegra, Osage leader), 100, 101n, 103, 656, 657 Green, Thomas Marston, 188 Greene, Griffin, 26-7, 154, 170, 181 Greene, Philip: recommended, appointed collector at Marietta, 27n, 154, 170, 179, 181, 690, 702 Greenlaw, David, 639, 705-6, 707 Greenleaf, James, 26n Greenock, Scotland, 255n Greensburg, Pa., 384 Greenup, Christopher: letter from, 551; recommends aspirants for office, 30n, 551; elected governor of Ky., 209 Greenville, Treaty of, 589n Gregg, Aaron, 587 Gregg, Andrew, 341, 717, 722 Griffin, Burgess: letter to cited, 732 Griffin, John, 447-8 Griffin, Larkin, 661, 704
Griffin, Thomas, 717, 724 Griffith, Dennis, 263 Griswold, Gaylord, 716 Griswold, Roger, 663, 716 Groves, Matthew: letter from, 437-41; astronomical quadrant, 437-8, 441n; method of calculating longitude, 437-9, 441n; seeks appointment, 437-41 Grymes, Charles Wyndham, 249 Grymes, Philip, 248, 299 Grymes, Philip Ludwell, 248, 249n Guillot, Pierre: characterized, 16, 19, 20, 23, 479; candidate for appointment, 168, 170, 307, 328, 350, 355, 479 gunboats: and defense of U.S. harbors, x, 127, 328, 556, 667-8, 674, 683; and Preble’s attack on Tripoli, lii; Gunboat No. 1, 33, 36, 51, 127, 129; instructions for commanders of, 33, 51; recruitment of crews, 33; construction of, 33-4, 36, 355, 395, 663, 667, 676, 683; distribution of, 33-4, 36; officers, 51, 94, 115, 129; Gunboat No. 2, 127; sent to south Atlantic ports, 127; hire of, in the Mediterranean, 177, 275n, 354n, 499, 500n; Gunboat No. 5, 395, 396n; legislation concerning, 579; advantages of, 667-8, 683, 709-10; cost of building, maintaining, 674; criticized by Federalists, 674 gun carriages, 37 gunner’s rules, 60-1n gunpowder, 10, 11, 212-13 Gurley, John Ward, 52-3, 310, 350, 351n Guy, Richard, 88n gypsum, 635 Hadley, John, 32 Haiti (Saint-Domingue): arming of U.S. merchant vessels trading with, x, 25, 254n, 264, 327, 591-5, 671, 680; French expeditionary force to (1801), 11n, 288n; immigrants, refugees from, 19, 56, 185, 186n, 286-9, 351-4, 367; surveyors, 56; French privateers interfere with trade with, 86, 671; U.S. relations with, 186n; newspaper reports on, 224; massacre of white inhabitants, 286, 288-9, 367; yellow fever, 287, 288; restoration of slavery on, 288n; commercial agents for,
756
INDEX 549-50; U.S. trade with, 549-50, 591; French recognition of, not expected, 624; as possible asylum for free blacks, mulattoes, 624. See also Santo Domingo (city) Halifax, 267n Halifax Court House, Va., 188 Hall, Chauncy: letter from, 464-5; experiments with perpetual motion, 464-5 Hall, David, 154, 155n, 464, 547n, 700 Hall, Dominick A.: letter to, 121; letter from, 207; candidate for appointment, 106, 168, 170; offered, accepts appointment as district judge for Orleans Terr., 121, 207, 233, 279, 306-7, 328, 350, 355, 574, 689, 712; identified, 121n Hall, Edward: recommended for appointment, 448-9, 465; appointed commissioner of loans, 476, 510, 564, 689, 702; criticism of, 489, 491-2, 559-61, 563-4, 567n Hamburg, Germany, 186n, 514-15, 612 Hamilton, Alexander: killed in duel with Burr, xii, l-li, 105, 107, 112, 113n, 118, 144, 401, 410n, 506; public mourning of, l, 232, 233n, 302, 560; monument to, l-li, 354 (illus.) Hamilton, James, 412, 413n Hamilton, Samuel, 193n, 245-6, 689 Hammet, Benjamin, 102 Hammond, Samuel, 169, 314, 389, 632n, 702, 711 Hammuda Bey (of Tunis): threatens war with U.S., x-xi, 177, 218-19n, 371, 372n, 665, 681-2; and ransom of Maria Anna Porcile, 134, 135; refuses to recognize Lear as U.S. consul general, 274, 275n, 292; requests frigate from U.S., 274; and claims to cargo of Paolina, 275n, 281-2; detains R. V. Morris, 281, 282n Hampton, Va.: construction of gunboat at, 33; collector at, 201, 203, 228, 263, 280, 315, 474, 476, 690, 702, 731 Hampton, Wade: letter to, 122; and T. Fitzpatrick, 122, 169, 410; recommends aspirants for office, 328-9n; letter from cited, 329n, 730; member of Eighth Congress, 718 Hand, John, 333 Hanna, John A., 717, 723 Hannay & Logan (Liverpool), 517n
Hanson, Alexander Contee, 568n Hanson, Samuel: letter from, 474; family of, 7n; declines appointment, 474 Harcum, John: letter from cited, 732 hares, 428 Hargis, Abraham, 154, 155n, 180 Harman, Thomas, 366n Harmonie hydro-végétale et météorologique (Friedrich August Rauch), 645 Harp and Eagle tavern, 229, 232-3n Harper, William H.: letter from cited, 729 Harpers Ferry, Va., 113n Harris, Levett: letter from, 196-8; sends bust of Alexander I, 196-8, 704; and crew of the Philadelphia, 198n, 423, 424n; identified, 198n Harris, Obedience Turpin, 208 Harris, Samuel: engraver, 246-7 Harrisburg, Pa., 186n, 384-6 Harrison, Benjamin (1726-1791), 167 Harrison, George, 232, 302, 341 Harrison, Richard: letter from, 598-9; and TJ’s accounts as minister to France, 598-9 Harrison, William Henry: letter to, 89-90; letter from, 648-9; and Indian affairs, xlviii, 98-9; and plan for Jeffersonville, 53, 54n; and Louisiana District, 82n, 89-90, 123, 285, 314, 648-9, 656, 657 Harrowby, Dudley Ryder, Baron, 217n, 434-5 Harrowby, Susan Leveson-Gower, Lady, 435n Harswell, Samuel, 232-3n Hart, Mr., 273, 333 Hart, Thomas: letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569; identified, 569n Harvie, John: letter to, 444; TJ recommends J. Oldham to, 444, 494 Harwell, Ranson, 687 Harwood, Benjamin: letter from, 444-5; resigns as commissioner of loans, 444-6, 448, 458, 459n, 463, 476, 490; identified, 445n Harwood, Henry Hall, 444-5, 489-90, 510, 558-9 Harwood, Thomas, 445n Harwood, William, 256 Hasbrouck, Josiah, 715, 716, 723, 726 Haskell, Eli, 26n
757
INDEX Haskell, John: letter from, 619-22; compares Adams and TJ administrations, seeks appointment, 619-22; identified, 622n Haslet, Joseph, 542, 543n Hastings, Jonathan, 247 Hastings, Seth, 716, 724 Hawkesbury, Robert Banks Jenkinson, Baron, 217n Hawkins, Benjamin: letter to, 184; assists I. Briggs, 184, 188n, 459-60; reports conflict among the Creeks, 691-2; letter from cited, 733 Hawkins, John Isaac: polygraph, 298, 425-6, 493, 508-9, 527, 626, 660 Hawkins, Mr., 517 Hay, George: and bill in chancery against John Henderson, 729; letter to cited, 729 Hazard (French privateer), 578 Hazard, Enoch: letter from, 633-4; support for C. Ellery, 633-4; identified, 634n Hazle, John, 33 Hazlehurst, Isaac, 519, 696 Hazlehurst, Juliana Purviance, 519 Helms, William, 717, 721 Helvétius, Claude Adrien, 566 Hemings, Betsy (1783-1857, Eppes slave), 160 Hemings, John: TJ’s memorandum of tasks for, 428 Henderson, Elizabeth Lewis (Mrs. Bennett Henderson), 482n Henderson, Isham, 49 Henderson, James L., 49 Henderson, John, 729 Henderson, McCaul & Co., 643 Henderson, Richard, 569n Henderson lands: deeds for purchase of, 49 Henrietta (brig), 517n Henry, James (New Haven, Conn.), 75n Henry, Patrick, 118 heraldry, 247n Herries, Robert, 636n Herries, William: letter from, 634-6; sends descriptions of Ohio valley, Louisiana District, 634-6; identified, 636n Hessian fly, 280n Heth, Henry, 525 Hewitt, William, 467 Hiester, Joseph, 717, 722 Higdon, John, 225n
Higginbotham, David: items forwarded to, 162; letters from cited, 729, 732, 733; letter to cited, 732 Highgate plantation (Gloucester Co., Va.), 299n Hill, Mark L., 456n Hillhouse, James, 719, 724 Hindostan (ship), 397 Hispaniola. See Haiti (Saint-Domingue) Histoire des chênes de l’Amérique (André Michaux), 645 Histoire naturelle des deux éléphans, male et femelle, du Muséum de Paris (Jean Pierre Louis Laurent Houel), 645 Histoire naturelle des perroquets (François Levaillant), 645 Histoire naturelle des volcans, comprenant les volcans soumarins, ceux de boue, et autres phénomènes analogues (Claude Nicolas Ordinaire), 645 Historical Account of the Several Plagues That Have Appeared in the World since the Year 1346 (Dale Ingram), 404, 405n History of Cambridge (Abiel Holmes), 551, 552n History of the American Indians (James Adair), 484, 485n History of the Five Indian Nations of Canada (Cadwallader Colden), 484, 485n Hobart, Dudley B., 456n Hodgdon, Samuel, 481n Hoe Buckintoopa (Hobuckintoopa), 690 Hoffman, George, 169, 689, 703 Hoffman, Peter: and land for German immigrants, 62-3, 70-1, 106, 107n Hoge, John, 717, 724 Holland. See Netherlands Holland, James, 718, 721 Holmes, Abiel: letter from, 551-2; sends pamphlets, prepares work on U.S. history, 551-2; identified, 552n Holmes, David, 718, 721 Holmes, Oliver Wendell, Jr., 552n Homastubbee (Choctaw Indian): letter from, 283; offers to sell land, 283 Hooff, John, 138 Hope, Michael, 729 Hope & Company (Amsterdam), 536, 673 Hopkins, Henry, 35n Hoppe, Ebenezer: letter from, 107-8; Explanation of E. Hoppe’s Improved
758
INDEX Sextant, 107-8, 437n, 477; identified, 108n; recommended by Truxtun, 436-7 Horace, 645 Hornet (U.S. brig), li, 34n, 127 horses: carriage, 97, 195-6; price of, 97; fatigued, 185; horseflies, 460 Hosack, David, 262 Hotchkiss, Justus, 75n Hotchkiss, Townsend & Co. (New Haven, Conn.), 75n Houdon, Jean Antoine, xlviii Houel, Jean Pierre Louis Laurent: Histoire naturelle des deux éléphans, 645 Hough, David, 715, 724 House, George, 346n household and personal articles: handles, 61; planes, 61, 137; candles, 109, 252, 277, 526-7; pens, 132, 147, 258, 259; crucibles, 137; frames, 137; locks, 137; sealing wax, 137; coal, 211, 212, 408, 430, 475, 503, 525, 538, 706; lamps, 540, 595-6, 613, 685-6; watches, 553n; stoves, 636-7, 696. See also food and drink; polygraphs Houston, James (Md.), 568n Howland, Benjamin, 634n, 719, 722 Howland, Joseph, 629, 632 Hoxton, Mary M., 140, 141n Hubbard, L. & W. (New Haven, Conn.), 75n Hudson, Joseph, 533-4 Hudson River, 496 Huger, Benjamin, 718, 724 Huggins, Ebenezer, 75n Huggins, Samuel, Jr., 75n Hughes, Capt., 382-3 Hughes, Samuel, 75n Hull, Isaac, lii, 661, 703 Hull, William, 168, 170, 234 Humboldt, Friedrich Wilhelm Heinrich Alexander, Baron von, 28, 31 Humphreys, Daniel, 77, 689, 702 Hungary: wine from, 514-15, 549, 612, 691 Hunt, Frederick, 75n Hunt, Jesse, 75n Hunt, John (New Haven, Conn.), 75n Hunt, John W.: letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569 Hunt, Samuel, 716, 724 Hunt, Seth: appointed commandant for Louisiana District, 169, 314, 712; unpopularity of, 314, 315n, 389; instructions for, 632n
Hunter, George: departs for western expedition, 212, 213n; plans to visit family, 536; unfamiliarity with astronomical instruments, 694. See also Dunbar and Hunter expedition Hunter, John S., 169 Huntington, Jedediah, 345-6 Hurt, John, 558 Husted, Abraham, Jr.: letter to, 376; letter from, 280; plan for underwater mine, 280, 376; identified, 280n Hutchins, Thomas, 32 Iberville River, 47, 238, 309 ice, 66 illiteracy, 559 illness and disease: fractures, 13; ague, 33; fever, 33, 38, 142n, 154n, 226, 227, 263n, 303, 386, 408, 543, 695n; bowels, 97, 160; leg injuries, maladies, 162, 211, 212; cholera, 201n; syphilis, 263n; plague, 404, 405n; typhus, 405n; diarrhea, 521; insanity, mental illness, 545; suicide, 545n; headaches, 576. See also medicine; quarantine; smallpox; yellow fever immigrants: Genoese, 18; Swiss, 18, 186n, 270-2, 325; Saint-Domingue, 19, 56, 185, 186n, 286-9, 351-4, 367; Scots, 22, 238, 309, 636n; Irish, 23, 71-2, 93n, 261, 331n, 698-9, 701n; French, 23-4, 110n, 143n, 193n, 195n; German, 62-3, 70-1, 186n, 502n; English, 88n, 238; cost of transportation, 270-2; benefits of immigration, 285; to Louisiana, 285; Italian, 316, 320, 321, 324; potential for further European immigration, 325; impact of European war on, 498-9 impeachment, 708n impressment: by Britain, 85, 127, 218n, 224, 254n, 300-1, 354n, 580, 674-5; by Portugal, 85; by France, 301, 674-5; by Denmark, 301n; by Sweden, 301n; negotiations with Britain on, 433-4, 435n Independence Day: celebrated by Chickasaws, 37-8; speeches, orations on, 86, 157, 173-4; celebration at New Orleans, 217n Independent Chronicle (Boston), 54 Indiana Territory: Jeffersonville, 53, 54n; secretary of, 57, 689, 702, 711; Kaskaskia land office, 170, 476, 485,
759
INDEX Indiana Territory (cont.) 688, 689, 703; Vincennes land office, 170, 485, 525, 688, 690, 703; immigrants to, 208; Louisiana District placed under jurisdiction of, 284-5, 633, 670; courts, 447-8; Indian affairs in, 605, 667, 682-3; descriptions of, 634, 642; sale of public lands in, 642. See also Detroit; Harrison, William Henry Indian Camp. See Short, William Indians Caddos delegation visits Natchitoches, 311-12, 364; establishment of trade, friendship with, 311-12, 339, 640 Cherokees land cessions sought from, xi, 596; relocation, removal of, xi, 571; education of, 175, 178-9, 278; missionaries among, 175, 178-9, 278; road through lands of, 596; travel accommodations on lands of, 596; agents for, 650n; commissioners to treat with, 689; delegation dines at President’s House, 715 Chickasaws land cessions sought from, xi, 571-2; relocation, removal of, xi, 571; acculturation of, 37-8; celebrate Independence Day, 37-8; intermarriage with whites, 38n; and Osages, 74n; delegation to Washington, 572n Chitimachas skulls of, 353-4n Choctaws debts of, xi, 283, 596-7; land cessions sought from, xi, 570-2, 596-7; relocation, removal of, xi, 571, 597; intermarriage with whites, 38n; travel accommodations on lands of, 570, 596; TJ’s notes on lands of, 572; trading house, factory, 606n. See also Homastubbee (Choctaw Indian); Puckshunubbee (Choctaw Indian) Comanches hatred toward U.S. encouraged, 339 Creeks (Muskogees, Muscogees) conflict among, xi, 691-2; relocation, removal of, xi, 571, 597; Coweta
town, 406n; road through land of, 460, 461n; scarcity of provisions among, 460; slaves owned by, 461n; commissioners to treat with, 688 Culture hair styles, xlix; alcoholism, 78; collection of information about, 377-9, 484-5, 625; vocabularies, 625 Delawares land cessions by, 605, 667, 682-3 Economy fur and peltry trade, 597n Foxes (Renards) land cessions by, 524n; attack Osage delegation, 571, 572n; relocation, removal of, 571; white encroachment on lands of, 571, 572n; U.S. relations with, 597 Iowas vocabulary of, 625 Kaskaskias land cessions by, 667, 683 Mandans agents for, 650n Missouris and Lewis and Clark expedition, 650 Osages send delegation to Washington, xi, xlix, 54, 70, 72, 73-4, 78, 94, 100, 103-4, 148, 275-6, 522, 523, 572n, 656-7; and peace medals, xlviii, xlix; hair styles, xlix; promotion of good relations with, xlix, 78, 597; descriptions of, 70, 78; Big Osage band, 72n; divisions among, 73, 74n, 100, 103-4, 656-7; murders committed against, 73, 74n, 98-9, 571, 572n, 675; relations with other tribes, 73, 74n, 597; and Spain, 73, 74n; Arkansas band, 74n, 100, 101n, 103; Little Osage band, 74n; agents for, 100, 650n; enslavement of, 101; relations with the French, 101; trade with, 264, 523n, 656-7; and Chouteaus, 523n; conflict with eastern Indians, 571, 572n, 597; land cessions sought from, 571. See also Dog Soldier (Soldat du Chien, Osage leader); White Hair (Cheveux Blancs, Pawhuska, Osage leader)
760
INDEX Indians (cont.) Otoes and Lewis and Clark expedition, 650 Pawnees hatred toward U.S. encouraged, 339, 364; and Lewis and Clark expedition, 650 Piankashaws land cessions sought from, 667, 683 Potawatomis conflated with Piankashaws, 663, 667, 670 Relations with Non-Indians enslavement of Indians, 101; Christian missionaries to, 175, 178-9, 278, 577-8, 588-9; education, 175, 178-9, 278; encroachment on Indian lands, 284-5, 571, 572n; theft, robbery, 285; histories of Indian wars, 377-9, 484-5; Indian title to “Sufferers’ Land,” 452-3; slave ownership by Indians, 461n; murders, 523-4, 656, 657; whites captured by Indians, 588-9n Sacs (Sauks) murder of white settlers by, 523-4, 656, 657; land cessions by, 524n; treaty with U.S., 524n; attack Osage delegation, 571, 572n, 675; relocation, removal of, 571; white encroachment on lands of, 571, 572n; U.S. relations with, 597 Shawnees and white captives, 588n Sioux promotion of good relations with, 78, 597; trade with, 264; land cessions sought from, 571; vocabulary of, 625 U.S. Indian Affairs relocation of eastern Indians to upper Louisiana, xi, 54, 284-5, 571-2, 597, 649n; U.S. seeks land cessions, xi, 12, 524n, 570-2, 596-7, 667, 682-3; peace medals, xlviii, xlix, 73, 74n, 96, 354 (illus.); superintendents, agents, 6-7, 100, 650n; negotiations with southern tribes, 12; and western exploration, 99-100, 103-4; and public support for missionaries, 178-9, 278; roads through Indian territory, 184, 460, 461n,
596; trading houses, factories, 264, 311-12, 339, 570-1, 596-7, 650n, 663, 666-7, 670, 682; payment of Indian debts, 283; annuities, presents, 311, 364n; Spanish interference in, 339, 340n, 364, 535, 536n; jurisdiction of territorial courts on Indian lands, 447-8; Indian title to “Sufferers’ Land,” 452-3; travel accommodations on Indian lands, 570, 596; Indians encouraged to run up debts, 570-1, 596-7; promotion of friendly relations, 597, 666, 682; and Lewis and Clark expedition, 650 Wyandots and white captives, 589n Ingels, George: letter from, 481-2; acting superintendent of military stores, 400-2, 481-2; seeks appointment, 481-2; identified, 481n Ingersoll, Jared, 456 Ingle, Henry: account with TJ, 61 Ingram, Dale: Historical Account of the Several Plagues, 404, 405n Innes, Harry, 524, 526 Inquiry into the Effects of Ardent Spirits upon the Human Body and Mind (Benjamin Rush), 204, 205n Inskeep, John, 357, 359 Institution Polytechnique (Paris), 67-8 Intrepid (U.S. ketch), 500n Ireland: immigrants from, 23, 71-2, 93n, 261, 331n, 698-9, 701n Irish, Nathaniel, 480 Irish language, 93n iron: nailrod, 62, 482-3, 570; sheet, 342-5, 346-7, 399, 484, 599, 636, 695-7; price of, 343-4; manufacturing, 367-8, 390, 401; iron ore, 635 Irujo, Carlos Martínez de: letter to, 397-8; letter from, 356; consultation with TJ at Monticello, ix, 356, 397-8, 417, 423, 430-1, 647, 648n; dispute with W. Jackson, ix, 357-9, 369-70, 398, 466-7; and Madison, ix, 356; publishes letters in newspaper, ix, 466-7n, 508; and Nuestra Señora de la Merced, 25, 26n, 31-2; and Mobile collection district, 300, 301n, 349, 403, 507; criticizes conduct of C. Pinckney, 356; accuses TJ’s administration of desiring war with Spain, 358; TJ’s list of letters received from, 430-1;
761
INDEX Irujo, Carlos Martínez de (cont.) dispute with Cabrera, 468-73; health of, 495; returns to Washington, 495; and Kemper riot, 608; converses with W. Short, 647; and Spanish acquiescence to Louisiana Purchase, 684n Irujo, Sarah (Sally) McKean, 356, 398, 431 Irvine, Anne Callender, 401 Irvine, Callender, 231, 400-1, 589-90, 598, 622-3, 730, 732 Irvine, William (Va.), 503, 518, 538 Irvine (Irving, Irwin), Gen. William: death of, 200-1, 204, 212, 213n, 220, 231, 232, 256, 264, 278, 302, 401, 481, 482n, 556, 589, 598, 622, 623n, 732; as navy storekeeper in Philadelphia, 341, 342n Israel, Israel, 231-2 Italian Republic, 316, 320, 323, 331 Italy: wine from, 112; extreme weather in, 116-17; immigrants from, 316, 320, 321, 324. See also Leghorn (Livorno), Italy; Naples; Sicily Jackson, David, Jr., 230 Jackson, James, 397n, 618n, 719, 720 Jackson, John G., 718, 722 Jackson, William: letter to, 398; letters from, 357, 369-70; dispute with Irujo, ix, 357-9, 364, 369-70, 398, 466-7; criticizes TJ’s naval policies, 63, 67, 117; criticizes TJ’s patronage policies, 359n; and Noailles estate, 376 Jacquett, Peter, 701 Jade Bay, 219n Jamaica: sugar production on, 190-1, 225-6, 290; threat of slave insurrection on, 191; militia, 291n James, Benjamin, 38n James River, 162 Jarvis, Charles, 493 Jarvis, William: letters to, 115-16, 122; letter from, 492-3; payments to, 115-16, 122, 123, 222, 492; and wine for TJ, 115-16, 492-3; sends fruit and nuts to TJ, 492-3 Jay, John, 167 Jay Treaty: not renewed by TJ’s administration, 111; and debt claims, 659n Jeakes, Joseph, 113n Jefferson, George: letters to, 131, 162, 215, 252, 482, 502-3, 538, 706; letters
from, 475, 518, 525; and TJ’s payment to Callender, 6n; handles TJ’s business affairs in Richmond, 131, 162, 215, 475, 525, 706; handles shipments for TJ, 162, 252, 475, 706; payments to, 215, 482, 706; and W. Short’s affairs, 417n; forwards TJ’s account, 475; letters from cited, 482n, 728, 729, 732; double payment to Moran, 502-3, 518, 538; and TJ’s account with Gibson & Jefferson, 502-3, 518, 729. See also Gibson & Jefferson Jefferson, Isaac (Boston): letter from, 330-1; seeks contract for seamen’s clothing, 330-1; identified, 331n Jefferson, Martha (Patty) Wayles Skelton (Mrs. Thomas Jefferson), 400n Jefferson, Thomas Agriculture exchanges seeds, plants with friends, 13-14, 31, 112, 114, 143-4, 163-4, 240-3, 331-2, 366, 552-4, 614-15; donkeys, 97, 98n; dispute between Craven and Lilly, 616. See also Poplar Forest (TJ’s estate) Architecture and design of U.S. Capitol, 166n, 483-4; roofing, 342-5. See also Monticello Business and Financial Affairs pressed for funds, xii, 390; salary, 28n, 273, 333; opens account with Bank of the United States, 58, 59n, 274n; purchases tools, hardware, 61; newspaper subscriptions, 125; payment of insurance premium, 159, 162; orders coal, 430, 475, 503, 525, 538, 706; pays taxes, 482n; orders stoves, 636-7, 696; debt to Henderson, McCaul & Co., 643. See also Bank of the United States; Barnes, John; Columbia, Bank of (Georgetown); Gibson & Jefferson; Henderson lands; Jefferson, George; Monticello; Short, William Character and Image friend to arts and science, 181, 222, 262 Continental Congress subscribes to second petition to king, 118-19, 205, 539
762
INDEX Jefferson, Thomas (cont.) Correspondence receives anonymous letters, 55-6, 337-8, 370-1, 382, 489-92, 555n, 573-4, 732, 733; too busy to write often, 110; uses caution, disguise in writing, sending letters, 110; abandons reading European newspapers, 123; letters delayed, miscarried, 308-9, 478; receives letters from the insane, 545. See also polygraphs Law privateers trespassing in U.S. jurisdiction, 48; limits of maritime jurisdiction, 361-2; sphere of federal judiciary limited, 380. See also Johnson, Richard; Peyton, Craven Library sends books to Monticello, 137; books obtained for, 260, 501-2, 525-6, 551-2, 573, 611-12, 615n, 645-6; books borrowed from, 557 Minister to France Hôtel de Langeac, 67-8; and Meyer, 553n; settlement of accounts, 598-9; and Gouan, 615n Nailery nailrod and iron stock for, 62, 482-3, 570 Opinions Virginia “more agricultural than Nautical,” 78; strength of old friendships, 124 Patronage and Appointments consults character sketches of Orleans residents, vii, 19-21, 23-4, 168-9, 305-6; difficulties making Orleans Terr. appointments, vii-viii, 52, 168-9, 199, 307-8, 666, 682; sends nominations to the Senate, xiii, 690-1n, 693n, 702-4; and “midnight appointments,” 3-4; will not appoint Federalists, 52-3, 75, 180, 302; lists of appointments and removals, 77, 168-70, 305-6, 485, 652-3, 688-91, 711-13; avoids appointing Virginians, 77-8; does not appoint J. Q. Adams bankruptcy commissioner, 244, 245n; criticized for appointing members of Congress to office, 337; appointment of bankruptcy commissioners,
379-80; Republicans entitled to share of offices, 380; irregularities in Chambers’s recess commission, 487-8; removals for electioneering, 488-9; removals for delinquent accounts, 546-7 Personal Affairs sends dinner invitations, lii-liii, 354 (illus.), 552, 714-27; orders wine, 37, 68, 112, 114-15, 115-16, 119, 156, 397, 421, 422-3n, 492-3, 514-15, 549, 612, 707, 729; strangers ask for money, 39-46, 88, 181-3, 294-5, 295-7, 406, 618, 640-1; health of, 94, 112; plans retirement, 112, 654; and Ceracchi’s bust of Washington, 114, 115n; only supports local institutions, 221-2; trustee of Ariana Randolph, 248-9, 299; visits Madison at Montpelier, 281; dreads “fatigues” of hosting President’s House dinners, 495; and death of H. B. Trist, 537-8, 613-14. See also President’s House Political Theories consuls as navy agents, 110-11; voluntary regulation preferable to formal treaties, 111, 654, 655; limits on judiciary’s sphere, 380; states may limit freedom of the press, 380-1; private market preferred for public supplies, 390; private wars impermissible in well-ordered society, 680 Politics takes pride in disapprobation of the Federalists, xi, 258; and death of Hamilton, xii, l, 105; Federalists and Republicans agree on object, differ on means, l, 381; decline, demise of Federalists, 110, 111, 127, 511, 707-8; return of U.S. to republican principles, 111, 127; forced to seek reelection due to Federalist lies, calumnies, 111-12; Louisiana Purchase secures peace with France, 112; denies involvement with “Olive Branch Petition,” 118-19, 166-8, 205, 215, 558; neither TJ nor Adams involved in “dirty work” of editors, 130; fears divisions among Republicans, 180, 204, 257-8; remains neutral in disputes among Republicans, 302;
763
INDEX 48; L’Enfant’s claim, 56; issues pardons, 60n, 139n, 210n, 227n, 391-2n, 476, 486n, 501n, 605n; land for Hoffman and Rapp, 70-1; division of Louisiana District, 81-3, 89-90; and self-government in Louisiana, 90-1, 199, 224; western exploration, 99-100, 103-4; discharge of public debt, 111, 679, 683-4; and Jay Treaty, 111; British frigates at New York, 127, 224, 327-8, 354, 355, 361-2, 364, 402-3, 629, 664, 680; halts prosecutions under Sedition Act, 130; establishment of post road between Washington and New Orleans, 184; defense of U.S. coasts and harbors, 224, 328, 361-2, 629, 664, 680; policy toward Haiti, 224, 680; criticism of R. R. Livingston, 252-3; change in form of French government, 253; commission, letter of credence for John Armstrong, 253; post road through W. Fla., 256-7; abuse of U.S. passports, 281; and continued Spanish presence in Orleans Terr., 281; and the Eugenia, 327; federal officials meddling in elections, 362; and French privateer in Mississippi River, 364-5; public buildings in Washington, 483-4; reception of Moreau, 489; cabinet meetings, 507-8; collection of back taxes in Ky., 526; and Kemper riot, 608n, 629; instructions for Louisiana District commandants, 631-2; navy appropriations, 663, 668; and delivery of Louisiana stock, 664-5, 681; temporary government for Louisiana, 666, 682. See also election of 1804
Jefferson, Thomas (cont.) won’t allow political opinion to interfere with friendships, 381, 510; calls sessions of Congress a “campaign,” 495, 654; lost influence of Federalist newspapers, 511; administration compared with Adams’s, 619-22; will not seek a third term, 654; criticized at public dinners, 707, 708n; editors “cooks” consulting “palates” of their readers, 707; gives up efforts to reconcile with Federalists, 707-8 Portraits Houdon’s plaster bust of, xlviii; on peace medals, xlviii, 354 (illus.); asked by Peale to sit for profile, 147-8; by Stuart, 279; by Doolittle, 279n; by Tiebout, 495n President relations with Spain, ix, 31-2, 46-7, 50, 349, 358, 364, 397-8, 403, 430-1, 507-8, 522, 527-8, 629-30, 664, 680-1; use of military volunteers, ix, 629, 630n, 663, 668; relations with Britain, ix-x, 124, 127, 223-4, 327-8, 354, 355, 402-3, 629-30, 663-4, 679, 680; relations with France, ix-x, 199, 223-4, 252-3, 290n, 354, 364-5, 489, 663-4, 679, 680; arming of U.S. merchant vessels, x, 327, 591-5, 680; construction, deployment of gunboats, x, 36, 51, 127, 355, 579, 663, 667-8, 683, 710n; preservation of peace in U.S. ports and harbors, x, 578-85; war with Tripoli, x, li, 111, 665, 681; relations with Tunis, x-xi, 111, 281, 665, 681-2; Indian policy, xi, xlviii, 54, 72, 78, 95-6, 98-101, 103-4, 178-9, 570-2, 663, 666-7, 682-3, 691-2; and District of Columbia, 28-30, 91-2, 94, 187; cargoes of distressed vessels, 31-2; compensation for W. C. C. Claiborne, 35, 48; and legal system in Louisiana, 35; St. Julien case, 35, 47, 48n; Louisiana boundaries, 46-7, 50, 54, 681; ban on new settlements in Texas, 47; establishment of Mobile collection district, 47, 507-8, 664, 680-1; and Spanish duties on U.S. goods at Mobile, 47; settlement of diplomatic expenses,
Religion separation of church and state, 47-8; freedom of religion, 78-9; clergy misrepresent Bible’s meaning, 110; views on the doctrines of Jesus, 204, 205n, 304 Scientific Interests Natural Bridge, xlvii, 113n; urban planning, 53-4, 102, 311; yellow fever, 53-4, 235; purchases scientific, mathematical instruments, 60-1; western exploration, 99-100, 103-4; flower named after TJ,
764
INDEX Jefferson, Thomas (cont.) 143-4; too busy for scientific, literary studies, 163; botany, 163-4; mammoth, 407, 554-5; receives specimens, curiosities, 407, 630-1; Indian vocabularies, 625. See also American Philosophical Society; Lewis and Clark expedition; polygraphs
Dinsmore, 427; Memorandum of Tasks for John Hemings, 428; Memorandum of Tasks for John Perry, 428; List of Letters Received from Carlos Martínez de Irujo, 430-1; notes on cabinet meetings, 507-8; Summary View of the Rights of British America, 539, 557-8; Memorandum for Henry Dearborn on Indian Policy, 570-2; Notes on Choctaw Indian Lands, 572; Notes on Tensions with Spain and Great Britain, 629-30; Memorandum on Commissions for the Legislative Council of Orleans Territory, 652-3; Proclamation Establishing the District of Mobile, 684n; lists of appointments and removals, 711-13. See also Annual Message to Congress (1804); Notes on the State of Virginia
Slaveholder offered, declines purchasing Melinda Colbert Freeman, 97-8, 195; purchases slaves, 139-41; hires slave labor, 141n, 424; prefers white servants at President’s House, 195; pays taxes on slaves, 482n; and Notes on the State of Virginia, 609-10; views on slavery criticized, 609-10; and removal of condemned slaves from Va., 623-5. See also Freeman, John Travel between Monticello and Washington, 131n, 137n, 162, 431-2, 495; travel expenses, 131n Vice President opposes use of military volunteers, 675n Virginia Legislator resolutions on Lord North’s Conciliatory Proposal, 166-8, 205, 558; Summary View of the Rights of British America, 539, 557-8 Writings Bill for Preservation of Peace in Harbors and Waters, x, 578-85; Bill to Regulate the Clearance of Armed Vessels, x, 591-5; dinner guest records, lii-liii, 354 (illus.), 714-27; Notes on Washington Highways, 29-30; Notes on Dispatches from William C. C. Claiborne, 35-6; Notes on Speeches of White Hair and Dog Soldier, 73-4; notes on appointments, 77, 168-70, 305-6, 485, 652-3; Notes on Upper Louisiana, 80-3; Notes on Reply of White Hair, 101; Notes on Shipment, 136-7; Notes on Information from Isaac Briggs, 188; Philosophy of Jesus, 204, 205n, 304; Notes on Roofing, 342-5; Notes for Consultation with James Madison, 364-5; Memorandum of Tasks for James
Jeffersonia diphylla (twinleaf), 143-4 “Jefferson’s March” (Peter S. Du Ponceau), 640-1 Jenkins, Elisha, 171, 172n Jenkins, Micah, 574 Jenner, Edward, 360 Jennings, Charles, 730 Jervis, Emilia: letter from, 640-1; asks TJ for money, 640-1 Jesus. See Jefferson, Thomas: Religion Jews, 232 John Adams (schooner), 332n John Adams (U.S. frigate), 129n, 499 Johnson, Bernard, 533, 534n Johnson, John, 490, 563 Johnson, Mr. (clerk), 358 Johnson, Richard: TJ’s legal action against, 405 Johnson, Thomas, 167 Johnson, William, 392-3 Jones, Evan: letter from, 449-52; candidate for appointment, vii, 169, 234, 305, 307, 328, 350, 355, 712; and Louisiana memorial, 7, 24, 217n, 254-5n, 449-52; and character sketches of Orleans residents, 14, 19, 21, 263-4; characterized, 20, 21, 22, 24, 263-4; offers smuggled cargo for sale, 363n, 479; declines appointment, 652-3, 711, 712 Jones, Meriwether: letter to, 557-8; letter from, 539; asks TJ for copy of Summary View, 539, 557-8
765
INDEX Jones, Michael, 688, 703 Jones, Mr. (Madison correspondent), 252 Jones, Mr. (Va.), 228, 731 Jones, Walter, 213n, 718, 721 Jones, Walter, Jr.: letter to, 213-14; and T. Duffy’s pardon, 138; offered, appointed U.S. attorney, 213-14, 255, 689, 702, 712; identified, 213-14n; letter from cited, 731 Jones, William (Pa.): letter to, 376; letter from, 456-7; recommended for appointment, 200, 730; letter from cited, 201n, 730; and Noailles estate, 376, 456-7; potential minister to Spain, 464 Jones & Howell: letters to, 62, 346-7, 482-3; letters from, 76, 399, 570; payments to, 62, 76, 333, 570n; TJ orders sheet iron from, 344, 346-7, 399, 483, 599, 696; TJ orders nailrod from, 482-3, 570; and stoves for TJ, 637 Jones & Kain, 136, 333 Jordan, Jeremiah, 316n Jordan, John, Jr.: letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569 Jordan, Richard, 297, 316n, 476 Joseph & Phoebe (ship), 517-18 Jourdan et fils (Tain, France), 68, 156, 422-3n Joy, George, 255n, 281 Judd, William, 336n, 338n Judiciary Act (1801), 121n, 620 Judiciary Act (1802), 245n, 380, 381n, 621 Judson, Agur, 338n “Julius” (pseudonym). See Finlay, William M. Jupiter (planet), 437, 439, 441n Kansas River, 99 Kaskaskia, 634 Kelly, John J., 641 Kemper, Nathan, 608n Kemper, Samuel, 608n Kemper riot, 608, 629, 630n Kennebec River, 517 Kennedy, William, 718, 721 Kenner, William: recommended for appointment, 238, 309; appointed to legislative council, 478, 652-3, 712 Kennon, Richard: letters to, 123, 222-3; letters from, 188-9, 349; appointment
as Louisiana District commandant, 123, 169, 188-9, 222-3, 314, 349, 711; identified, 123n; instructions for, 632n Kentucky: Shelby Co., 49n; elections in, 209; Clark Co., 372-3; Baptists in, 374n; Unitarians in, 374n; collection of back taxes in, 524, 526; springs, 569n; descriptions of, 634; counterfeiting in, 639n Kentucky Gazette (Lexington, Ky.), 379n Ker, David, 188 Kerr, Lewis, 310-11 Keteltas, William: letter from, 695; seeks appointment, 695 Key, Edmund, 316n, 474, 476, 690, 702 Killgore (Kilgore), Charles, 577n Kilty, John, 446 Kilty, William: letter to, 157; letters from, 171, 172-3, 446, 457, 465, 604-5; and pardons, 60, 138, 157, 171, 391, 486, 501, 604-5; recommends aspirants for office, 172-3, 446, 457, 465 Kimball, Joseph, 692 King, James (laborer), 33 King, John (laborer), 33, 93 King, Martin, 33 King, Miles: letter from cited, 730 King, Nicholas: letter from, 539-42; family of, 263, 267n; and meridian line at Washington, D.C., 539-42 King, Richard, 630-1 King, Robert, Jr., 263, 267n King, Rufus: accounts as minister, 48, 186n, 198; and Delacoste’s museum, 195n; public dinner in honor of, 707, 708n King, Timothy, 33, 93 Kings Mountain, battle of, 361n Kingston, Jamaica, 354n Kinnan, Robert: letter to cited, 731 Kirby, Ephraim: letter from, 12-13; land commissioner in Miss. Terr., 12; describes plight of Tombigbee settlements, 12-13; candidate for appointment, 106, 168, 170, 233, 307, 328, 350, 355, 689, 712; potential minister to Spain, 464; and Chambers’s commission, 487; health of, 587; death of, 606, 687n, 688; appointed judge for Miss. Terr., 688 Kirby, Ruth Marvin, 606 Knight, Nehemiah, 716, 722, 726 Knox, Henry, 64-5 Kosciuszko, Tadeusz, 734
766
INDEX Krafft, Johann Karl: Plans, coupes et élévations, 645 Kuhn, Green & Co., 173 Kuhn, Peter, Jr., 173 Kuhn, Peter, Sr.: letter from, 173; recommends son for appointment, 173 Kyne (Kyan), Mathias, 33, 71, 93 Labatut, Jean Baptiste: characterized, 16, 20 Lacépède, Bernard Germain Étienne de La Ville-sur-Illon, Comte de: Ménagerie du muséum national d’histoire naturelle, 645 La Chiapella, Geromo: characterized, 16, 18, 20; recommends aspirants for office, 330n Laclède, Pierre, 523n “Laelius” (pseudonym), 705 Lafayette, Marie Adrienne Françoise de Noailles, Marquise de, 13, 503-4, 697 Lafayette, Marie Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de: letters from, 13, 503-7; and death of Hamilton, l, 506; health of, 13, 503-4; urged to settle in Louisiana, 13, 59, 112; and Duplantier, 22; land granted to, 54, 59, 67, 102, 112, 117, 313, 504, 507, 614; and Mme de Tessé, 240, 241, 242; offered governorship of Louisiana, 306, 308n, 350, 355; imprisonment of, 503; declines removing to Louisiana, 504-5; and Moreau, 506; opposes Bonaparte’s lifetime consulship, 506, 507n; retired from public life, 506, 507n; mortgages Orleans Terr. lands, 507; and Lequinio de Kerblay, 697n La Grange, Joseph E. G. M. de, 456-7 La Hogue, Jean Baptiste de: characterized, 17, 19, 20 L’Allemand, Alfonse, 472n Lamar, James, 33 Lambert, John, 159 Lamberton, N.J., 43 Lamson, John, 255n, 281 Lancaster, Pa.: postal service to, 186n, 384-7 Lance la grace, 80 Landon, Charles Paul: Vies et oeuvres des peintres, 645 land speculation: in Ga., 41; efforts to prevent, 70; in Ohio, 70; in W. Fla., 309, 312, 313-14n, 705
Lane, Enoch S., 125 Lange, Charley, 472n Langeac, Hôtel de (Paris), 67-8 Lanthois, John: characterized, 16, 18, 20 Lanusse, Paul: letter from, 449-52; characterized, 15, 17, 19; recommends aspirants for office, 330n; and Louisiana memorial, 449-52 Larned, Simon, 716, 722 Larner, Brian, 93 La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt, François Alexandre Frédéric, Duc de, 697 Lastri, Marco, 112, 114 Latimer, Alexander, 138 Latrobe, Benjamin Henry: letters to, 483-4, 636-7; letters from, 519, 552, 599, 695-7; streets and roads in Washington, 28-30; and polygraphs, 132-3, 147, 696; design, alteration of U.S. Capitol, 166n, 483-4, 696-7; and Lenthall, 166n; and President’s House, 484, 552; TJ buys sheet iron from, 484, 599, 636, 695-6; and Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, 519, 695; delayed return to Washington, 519, 599; invited to dine with TJ, 552; and stoves for TJ, 636-7, 696; criticized by Federalists, 696-7; dispute with W. Thornton, 696n Latrobe, Henry Sellon Boneval, 519 Latrobe, Juliana Elizabeth Boneval, 519 Latrobe, Mary Elizabeth Hazlehurst, 519, 696 Lattimore, William, 715, 719, 723 Laussat, Pierre Clément: supporters and opponents of, 18, 19, 24; and St. Julien’s case, 35n; and Lafayette, 504 La Valette, Charles François Chandéon, 202 Lavoisier, Antoine Laurent, 10, 11 law: corporal punishment, 60, 138, 139n, 209, 227; wills, 348-9; limits of maritime jurisdiction, 361-2; jurisdiction of territorial courts, 447-8; foreign armed vessels in U.S. waters, 578-85; legal fees, costs, 621-2. See also crime; Henderson lands; pardons Law, Richard, 346n Law, Thomas: letter from, 158; and Finch’s boardinghouse, 88; forwards Snodgrass replies, 158 Lea, Thomas, 701 lead: in Louisiana District, 635, 666, 682, 684-5n
767
INDEX Leander (British warship), 266-7, 346n, 396n Lear, Tobias: and negotiations with Tunis, 274, 275n, 292; negotiations with Tripoli, 372n; consul general at Algiers, 498 Lebanon, Pa., 384 Le Beau, Justus: letter from, 351-4; asks TJ for money, letter of introduction, 351-4; identified, 353-4n Le Beau, Modeste Charbonnet, 354n Le Breton d’Orgenoy, François Joseph: characterized, 16, 18, 20, 23, 309, 586-7; candidate for appointment, 169; recommended for appointment, 238, 309; appointed marshal, 586-7, 712 Leçons élémentaires de chimie, à l’usage des lycées (Pierre Auguste Adet), 145-7 Lee, Edmund Jennings, 138 Lee, Richard Henry, 118 Lee, William (1772-1840): letters from, 382-3, 515-18; business failure of, 186n, 516, 517n; sends news of British, French relations, 186n, 198; sends wine, preserved fruit to TJ, 382-4; defends his conduct as consul, 515-18; health of, 516 Legare, Solomon, 574 Leghorn (Livorno), Italy, 419 Le Havre, France, 517n Leib, John, 232 Leib, Michael: and divisions among Pa. Republicans, 229, 231, 232-3n, 341, 548; member of Eighth Congress, 717; dines with TJ, 720, 726 Leiper, Elizabeth Coultas Gray: letter from, 622-3; letter from cited, 201n, 623n, 730; and appointment of C. Irvine, 622-3; identified, 623n Leiper, Thomas: letters from, 229-33, 400-2; and Callender, 6n; letters from cited, 201n, 730, 732; and divisions among Pa. Republicans, 229-33; advises on appointments, 231, 400-2 Leiper Canal, 623n Lemaire, Étienne: letters to, 162, 430; letters from, 211-12, 408; inventory of champagne, 70n; orders groceries, 136; health of, 162, 211, 212; sends wine to Monticello, 162, 211-12; payments to, 273, 333, 334; and death of R. Bailey, 408, 430; preparations for TJ’s return to Washington, 430; and President’s House accounts, 734
Lemoine d’Essoies, Edme Marie Joseph, 67-8 L’Enfant, Pierre Charles, 55, 56, 91 Lenox, Peter: letter to, 181; locks for Monticello, 137; and work on Capitol, 164, 467; and painter for Monticello, 181; payments to, 273, 334 Lenthall, John, 165-6, 187, 483-4 Leonard, James T.: letter to, 223; letter from, 202; carries letters, book for TJ, 202, 414; returns from mission to France, 202; identified, 202n; thanked by TJ, 223; and receipt for delivery of Louisiana Purchase stock, 537n, 673 Lequinio de Kerblay, Joseph Marie: letter from, 697; presents respects to TJ, 697 Letters from London: Written during the Years 1802 & 1803 (William Austin), 260 Lettres d’un observateur sur la marine (Pierre Alexandre Forfait), 556, 557n Levaillant, François: Histoire naturelle des perroquets, 645 Levis, William, 232, 233n Levrault, Schoell & Comp., 645n Levrault Frères, 502n Levy, Samson, 327, 328n, 412 Lewis, Joseph, Jr., 717, 724 Lewis, Mary Walker, 366 Lewis, Meriwether: and Osage delegation, xi, 73, 99, 103; sends specimens, curiosities to TJ, 407, 554-5; collects Indian vocabularies, 625; and R. Lewis, 650. See also Lewis and Clark expedition Lewis, Micajah G., 411 Lewis, Mildred Dabney, 650n Lewis, Morgan, 195n, 413n Lewis, Nicholas, 366 Lewis, Nicholas Meriwether: letter from, 605; seeks appointment, 605 Lewis, Reuben: letter to, 650; TJ sends news of Lewis and Clark to, 650; identified, 650n Lewis, Samuel (Philadelphia): letter from, 163; seeks appointment, 163, 201, 263 Lewis, Thomas (captain of the Pomona), 417-18, 422n Lewis and Clark expedition: and Osage delegation, xi; and contact with Indians, xlviii, 650; distribute peace medals, xlviii; sends specimens to TJ,
768
INDEX 104n; boats, 650; desertions from, 650; at Platte River, 650 Liberia, 458n Liberty (ship), 272n Library of Congress: expenditures on room for, 164; books for, 414-15, 556 Life of George Washington (John Marshall), 379n lighthouses: appointment of keepers, superintendents, 154, 155n, 179-80, 455-6, 474, 629, 632, 733; Cape Henlopen, Del., 154, 155n, 179-80; Seguin Island, Me., 455-6, 474; Shell Castle Island, N.C., 455-6, 474; keepers’ salaries, 456n; Clark’s Point, Mass., 629, 632; New Point Comfort, Va., 733 Lilly, Gabriel: and Short’s Indian Camp property, 415-16; and arbitration with J. B. Magruder, 425; makes payments for TJ, 436, 732; characterized, 521; dispute with Craven, 521, 616; and double payment to Moran, 538; letters to cited, 538n, 616n, 729, 732, 733; payments to, 729; letters from cited, 732, 733; subject of anonymous letter, 732 Lincoln, Benjamin: letter from, 109; forwards packages to TJ, 109; and Seguin Island lighthouse, 456n; letter from cited, 731 Lincoln, Levi: letter to, 402-3; letter from, 529-33; and British frigates at New York, x, 364, 402-3, 529-30; arming of U.S. merchant vessels, 25, 27n; as reference, 26n; payments to, 27n; retirement as U.S. attorney general, 180, 531; sends observations on New England politics to TJ, 529-33; rumored dissatisfaction with TJ’s administration, 531; departure for Washington, 532, 662; and bill for preservation of peace in harbors and waters, 578, 579-82; absent during drafting of annual message, 662; dines with TJ, 726, 727n Lining, Charles, 574 Linnaeus, Carolus, 143, 615n Linnard, William: letter from cited, 213n, 731; recommended for appointment, 730 Literary Magazine, and American Register, 495n Little Cornelia (ship), 266, 267n Little Jim (sloop), 37
Little Prairie, 80, 81, 89 Livaudais, Jacques Enould, Jr.: characterized, 16, 18, 20 Livaudais, Jacques Enould, Sr.: letter from, 449-52; characterized, 16, 18, 20, 22; candidate for appointment, 305; and Louisiana memorial, 449-52 Lively, Charles, 416 Liverpool, 442 Livingston, Brockholst: letter from, 128; introduces R. Macomb, 128; considered for appointment as U.S. attorney general, 216, 412 Livingston, Edward: and Louisiana memorial to Congress, 7-8, 217n, 254-5n, 312-13, 607; and Bastrop’s claim, 157; recommends aspirants for office, 330n; and Alien and Sedition acts, 347, 349n Livingston, Henry W., 716, 724 Livingston, Robert R.: and F. Skipwith, 69, 216, 218n; seeks to resign as minister, 112, 186n; and S. Lynch, 172n; departure from France, 174, 240, 241; criticism of, 185, 198-9, 234, 252-3; dispute with American claims commissioners, 185-6, 199, 218n, 234, 252-4; delivery of Louisiana Purchase stock, 185n, 536-7, 673; relationship with Monroe, 186n, 216-17; sends dispatches with Leonard, 202; travels to England, 216, 217n; and French actions concerning the Philadelphia, 275n; correspondence with Madison, 300; and American debt claims, 393, 423, 435; urges U.S. to take possession of W. Fla., 466; and Moreau, 489n; and Lafayette, 506; and SaintPaul, 611 lizard, horned, 104n, 148 Llewellensburg, Md.: surveyor at, 297, 315, 316n, 474, 476, 690, 702 Lloyd, Thomas: letter from cited, 201n, 730 Loche, M. de: vineyard, 68 Logan, George, 220, 231, 719, 721 Logwood, Thomas (counterfeiter), 637-9, 686, 705-7 L’Oiseau, Captain, 364 London: mathematical instrument makers, 108n; Old Bailey, 404, 405n; Newgate prison, 405n; typhus in, 405n London Exchange Banking Company, 636n
769
INDEX Long Island, Bahamas, 286, 288 Long Island Sound, 265-7 longitude: calculation of, 108, 437-8, 441n, 461, 464, 693-4; meridian line at Washington, D.C., 539-42 Lorimier, Louis, Jr., 87 Los Adaes (Adais; Spanish presidio), 364 Louisiana: boundaries of, ix, 31-2, 36n, 46-7, 50, 293, 301n, 312, 432-3, 466n, 528n, 617, 672, 681, 712; W. Fla. claimed as part of, ix, 185, 301n, 312; division of, 7, 217n; immigration to, 18, 56, 185, 186n, 188-9, 190-1, 270-2; exploration of, 30, 99; Spanish administration of, 35, 82n, 255n, 312; French administration of, 35n; exchange portion of, for Florida, 47, 50, 409, 704-5; temporary ban on new settlements in, 47, 434; Indian trade in, 90, 339, 340n; Indians in, 99; demand for slaves in, 217-18n; inhabitants of, not ready for selfgovernment, 217-18n, 313, 434, 451-2n; declining French influence in, 224; opposition to TJ’s administration in, 338-9; as possible asylum for free blacks, mulattoes, 624. See also Louisiana District; New Orleans; Orleans Territory Louisiana Bank: directors of, 21n; chartering of, 52, 310 Louisiana District: settlement of eastern Indians in, 54, 284-5, 571, 649n; population of, 80-1, 82n, 89-90; descriptions of, 80-3, 635; blacks in, 81, 82n, 89-90; division of, into districts, 81-2, 89-90, 649, 666, 670, 682; commandants for, 123, 169, 188-9, 222-3, 236, 285-6, 314-15, 349, 388-9, 631-2, 632-3, 673, 682, 711-12; military government for, 264; Indians in, 284, 666-7, 682; calls for representative government, 284-5, 649; placed under jurisdiction of Indiana Terr., 284-5, 633, 670; petition to Congress from, 284-6, 635, 649, 657-8; immigration to, 285; land titles in, 285, 649n; Spanish administration of, 285; squatters in, 631; militia, 632; agricultural potential, 635; lead mines in, 635, 666, 682, 685-5n; mineral resources, 635; sale of public lands in, 642 Louisiana Gazette, 9n, 705n
“Louisianais” (pseudonym): opposes Louisiana memorial, 451-2n Louisiana Purchase: and right of selfgovernment for Louisianians, 7-8, 9n, 14n, 90-1; impact on Indians, 99; will ensure peace between U.S. and France, 112; delivery of stock for payment of, 185n, 202n, 536-7, 664-5, 672-3, 681; and settlement of American debt claims, 199; may cause divisions between eastern and western U.S., 434; praise for, 441n; Spain acquiesces to, 664, 672, 681, 684n; criticism of, 708n Louis XVI, King of France, 446 Love, John C., 125, 730 Lovell, John Pittman, 129 Loviell (Louviere?), Mr. (Orleans Terr.), 239, 309 Lowndes, Thomas, 715, 718, 723 Lowry, Robert K.: letter from, 475-6; forwards paper on silkworms, 475-6; identified, 476n Lucas, James, 51 Lucas, John B. C., 717, 722 Luce, Henry, 734 Lucretius Carus, Titus: De natura rerum, 317, 322, 325n Ludlow, Charlotte Chambers, 577-8n Ludlow, Daniel, 496, 603 Ludlow, Israel, 577-8n Ludwig, Johann Carl, & Son (Mittelwalde), 515, 612n Lur-Saluces (Salus), Comte de, 383 Lyle, James: letter from, 643; and TJ’s debt to Henderson, McCaul & Co., 643 Lyman, William, 77, 532 Lynch, Simon, 171-2, 186n, 198 Lyon, Matthew, 649, 719, 723 Lyon, William, 75n Macbean, William: letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569 MacCreery, William, 715, 717, 721, 726 Mackenzie & Glennie (London), 234, 235n, 418-19 Maclay, Samuel, 719, 722 Maclure, William, 218n, 252, 253-4 Macomb, Robert, 128 Macon, Nathaniel: letter from, 336-7; sends election news, observations on foreign affairs, 336-7; speaker of the House, 633n; member of Eighth
770
INDEX Congress, 718; dines with TJ, 720, 726 Macon, Sarah Catlett Madison, 520n Macon, Thomas, 520 MacRea (McRea), William, 453-4, 658 Madison (U.S. corvette), 202n Madison, Dolley Payne Todd, 281, 292, 424n
185, 256-7, 292-3; alleged alliance between Britain and Bourbons, 200, 223-4; commission, letter of credence for John Armstrong, 216; and fraud committed in name of Preble, 234-5; British violations of neutral rights, 253, 266; relations with Tunis, 274, 281-2, 292; change in form of French government, 290n, 362-3; negotiations with Spain, 300, 466, 528n, 669; British frigates at New York, 300-1, 354; impressment of American seamen, 300-1; and Timpanari Viganò, 320, 324; French privateers in W. Indies, 354, 363, 669; TJ’s notes for consultation with, 364-5; negotiations for crew of Philadelphia, 423-4; relations with Ottoman Empire, 423-4; relations with Russia, 423-4; dispute between W. Jackson and Irujo, 466-7; Cabrera’s claim of diplomatic immunity, 473n; attends cabinet meetings, 507; TJ sends appointments to, 525; obtains polygraphs for State Department, 527, 626, 659; arming of U.S. merchant vessels, 591, 592-3; bill to regulate the clearance of armed vessels, 592-3; instructions regarding Kemper riot, 608n; advises on annual message to Congress, 662, 669. See also State, U.S. Department of
Madison, James: letters to, 46-7, 47-8, 50, 90-1, 157, 181, 198-9, 223-4, 233-4, 252-3, 256-7, 281-2, 354, 431-2, 525; letters from, 184-6, 200, 215-19, 219, 234-5, 253-5, 274-5, 292-3, 300-1, 362-4, 423-4, 466-7, 542, 592-3, 669 Personal Affairs preparing to leave Washington, 105; provides TJ with bills of exchange, 115, 119, 122, 126, 396, 492; tobacco crop of, 115, 119; and John Freeman, 141n; invited to Monticello, 199; and Bishop Madison’s inquiry regarding Mansfield, 219; TJ visits, at Montpelier, 281, 292, 306n, 327, 431-2, 643; visits Monticello, 362, 424n; orders wine, 421, 422-3n, 698; and Oldham, 494, 520; returns to Washington, 495; as Lafayette’s power of attorney, 504, 505, 507n. See also Montpelier Secretary of State relationship with Irujo, ix, 356; Louisiana boundaries, 46-7, 50, 466n, 528n; establishment of Mobile collection district, 47, 466, 669; compensation for W. C. C. Claiborne, 48; R. King’s accounts, 48, 186n; applications to, for appointments, 75n, 173n, 468n, 549-50n; and Bastrop, 90-1, 157; extension of U.S. laws to Louisiana, 90-1; ransom, release of Maria Anna Porcile, 136n; advises on appointments, 181, 199, 216, 233-4, 306n, 327, 355, 542; ratification of the Twelfth Amendment, 181, 215-16, 274-5; forwards commissions, communications, 184-6, 198-9, 215-19, 234-5, 253-5, 274-5, 300-1, 362-4, 466; American debt claims against France, 185, 199, 234-5, 252, 253-4, 423; criticism of R. R. Livingston, 185, 216, 234, 252-3; and W. Fla.,
Madison, Bishop James: letter from, 32; TJ asks to borrow quadrant from, 32; recommends aspirants for office, 196, 732; letters from cited, 196n, 730, 732; seeks to hire Mansfield for William and Mary faculty, 219, 252 Mad River, 589n Magnan, Charles Philippe, 614, 615 Magnan, Dr., 614, 615 Magowen (Magown, Magowers), Johnson, 692 Magruder, Allan B.: letter to, 484-5; letter from, 377-9; prepares work on history of Indian wars, 377-9, 484-5 Magruder, John B.: letter to, 424-5; TJ orders flooring plank from, 424-5 Main, Thomas (nurseryman): letter from cited, 729 Maine: elections in, 279; Gardiner, 279, 291; Seguin Island lighthouse, 455-6,
771
INDEX Maine (cont.) 474; Stage Island, 456n. See also Republicans Malaga, Spain, 397, 512, 513 Malta, 178n, 331-2, 354, 500n mammoth, 407, 554-5 Manning, Nathaniel, 338n Mansfield, Jared: recommends aspirants for office, 26-7n; and B. Tupper, 154, 155n; considered for faculty at William and Mary, 219, 281 Mansfield, John, 265-7, 345-6n manufacturing: buttons, 40-1; nails, 41; shingles, 41-2, 46; riding whips, 42; textiles, 192n; iron, 367-8, 390, 401; glass, 401; steel, 401 Map of the State of New York (Simeon De Witt), 300 Map of the United States (Abraham Bradley, Jr.), 596n maps: New England, 247n; of N.Y., 300 Marais des Liards, 80 Maramea (Marameg), 80 Marblehead, Mass.: surveyorship, 77, 702 March, John, 443 Maria (sloop), 109, 277 Marietta, Ohio: collector at, 26-7, 154, 170, 179, 181, 690, 702; land office, 155n Marigny de Mandeville, Bernard Xavier Philippe de: description of, 19, 20 Marines, U.S., 125, 661 Marion, Robert, 528-9 Marks, Anna Scott Jefferson (Mrs. Hastings Marks, TJ’s sister): invited to Monticello, 105; letters to cited, 105n, 729, 730 Marks, Lucy Meriwether Lewis, 649 Marrast, John: letter to, 526-7; letters from, 109-10, 277; sends candles to TJ, 109-10, 277, 526; identified, 109-10n; payment to, 526-7 Marseilles, France, 418-20, 421n, 422n Marshall, Benjamin, 692 Marshall, John: Life of George Washington, 379n Martin (Eppes slave; formerly TJ’s slave), 97 Martin, Benjamin, 40 Martin, Luther, 254n Martin, Mr. (Philadelphia saddler), 230 Martin, Thomas (soldier): letter from cited, 729
Martin, William (N.C.), 336, 337n Martin, William B.: letter from cited, 731 Martinique, W.I., 85 Mary (brig), 363-5 Maryland: Charles Co., 7n, 172; marshal for, 77, 689, 702; navy appointments from, 94; and Bank of England stock, 107n, 435n; militia, 159n; attorneys, 172; Prince George’s Co., 172, 220, 257, 449n; treasurer of the western shore, 444-5; commissioner of loans, 444-6, 448-9, 457-9, 463, 465, 474, 476, 489-92, 558-61, 564, 689, 702; executive council, 559-60, 563-4, 567-8n; courts, 562-3, 568n; Anne Arundel Co., 563; Harford Co., 568n. See also Baltimore, Md.; Federalists; Llewellensburg, Md.; Republicans Maskelyne, Nevil, 438 Mason, George, 118 Mason, John (Georgetown merchant): letter from, 203; recommends aspirants for office, 203, 490; letter from cited, 365n Mason, John (Plymouth): letter from cited, 364, 365n Mason, John Thomson: letter to, 214; letters from, 189-90, 255-6; resigns as U.S. attorney, 172, 189-90, 203, 213, 214, 712; offered, declines appointment as U.S. attorney general, 180, 181, 263; recommends aspirants for office, 189; and cases of P. Williams and J. Ray, 189-90; advises on appointments, 214, 255-6; as reference, 297; and perjury charge against Edward Hall, 492, 559 Mason, Stevens Thomson, 88, 112, 113n Mason, Thomas (Md.), 348n Massachusetts: commissioner of loans, 77, 689, 702; elections in, 85, 144, 206, 279, 335, 350; courts, 532; Congregationalists in, 552n; Clark’s Point lighthouse, 629, 632; Marblehead surveyorship, 690. See also Boston; Federalists; Maine; Republicans Massachusetts Historical Society, 551, 552n Matagorda Bay, 50 mathematics: for merchants, 251n; education, 605. See also longitude Mather, James: characterized, 17, 20, 309; recommended for appointment, 238, 309
772
INDEX Matlack, Timothy, 730 Maury, James: letter to, 123-4; letter from, 441-2; bills drawn on, 115, 116n, 119, 122, 123, 126, 396, 441, 492; friendship with TJ, 123-4, 441-2 Maury, Matthew, 124, 442 Mazange, Leonardo: characterized, 15, 17, 19, 21n Mazzei, Philip: letter to, 110-13; letters from, 116-17, 316-25; and donkey breeding, 98n; correspondence with TJ, 110; TJ sends news of public, private affairs to, 110-13; exchanges seeds, plants with TJ, 112; family of, 112-13; reports on extreme weather in Europe, 116-17; introduces Timpanari Viganò, 316-25, 499; and Meyer, 553 McClallen, John, 480 McClenachan, Blair, 732 McCord, Andrew, 716, 721 McCormick, Andrew T., 734 McCrackan, William, & Son (New Haven, Conn.), 75n McCulloch, James Hugh, 365, 366n McDonald, Mrs. (S.C.), 574 McDonogh, Bryan, 176, 178n McFarland, Duncan, 336, 337n, 560 McFarland, William: letter from, 650-2; recommends aspirant for office, 650-2; identified, 651-2n McFarlane, John (ship’s captain), 397 McFarlane (McFarlin), George: letter from, 224-5; petition for pardon, 224-5; pardoned by TJ, 391-2n, 476 McFarlane (McFarlin), John: letter from, 390-2; petition for pardon, 225n, 390-2 McGrew, John, 687 McGrew, John F., 687 McGrew, William, 687 McHenry, James, 66 McKean, Joseph B., 402, 469, 471, 473n McKean, Sarah Miles, 402n McKean, Thomas: letter to, 257-8; letter from, 220-1; and divisions among Pa. Republicans, xi, 220-1, 257-8; recommends aspirants for office, 220, 256, 257; urged to run for president, 220, 257-8; sends election news to TJ, 220-1; as Irujo’s father-in-law, 358, 469, 471, 472n; accused of nepotism, 401-2; and arrest of Cabrera, 473n; reelection of, 590 McKean, Thomas, Jr., 402
McLane, Allen: removal of expected, urged by Republicans, 509, 543-4, 585, 656, 700 McPherson, James: letter from, 588-9; and missionaries among Indians, 577n, 588-9; identified, 588n Mead (Meade), Cowles, 261n Meade, Henrietta Worsam, 468 Meade, Richard W., 468, 512, 513 Mead & Jenkins (Savannah), 397n Meara, Francis O., 109, 277 medals: peace medals, xlviii, 73, 74n, 96, 354 (illus.) Medical Inquiries and Observations (Benjamin Rush), 304, 305n medicine: medicinal springs, 13, 569n; antiseptic gas, 21; medical devices, 21; camphor, 263n; medical schools, societies, 263n; opium, 263n; education, 293n; physicians, 453, 658; amputation, 497n. See also illness and disease; women Mediterranean Sea: arming of merchant vessels in, 591, 595. See also Navy, U.S.; Tripoli Meigs, Return Jonathan, 278n, 689 Meigs, Return Jonathan, Jr.: reports death of G. Greene, 154; candidate for appointment, 169; appointed Louisiana District commandant, 314, 632n, 711; letter from cited, 315n, 731 Melzi d’Eril, Francesco, 316, 320, 321, 324, 331 Memoir of the Moheagan Indians (Abiel Holmes), 551, 552n “Memoir on the Treatment of the SilkWorm” (Robert K. Lowry), 475-6 Ménagerie du muséum national d’histoire naturelle (Comte de Lacépède), 645 Mendenhall, Thomas, 232n Mendoza y Ríos, Joseph de, 108 Mentelle, Edme, 645, 646n Mercer, John (Va.), 218n, 252, 253-4 Mercer, John F.: letter to, 510-11; letters from, 445, 558-68; TJ affirms his respect and friendship for, xii, 510-11; and J. M. O’Harnett’s petition, 348; political conduct criticized, defended, 445, 510-11, 558-68; recommends aspirant for office, 445, 490, 510, 558-9; criticism of Edward Hall, 492; relationship with TJ, 561 Merieult, Jean François (John Francis): characterized, 15, 17, 19, 21n; recommends aspirants for office, 330n
773
INDEX Meriwether, David: assists I. Briggs, 334, 459; appointed Indian commissioner, 688; member of Eighth Congress, 718; dines with TJ, 721 Meriwether, Dr., 366 Merry, Anthony: correspondence with Madison, 252; and the Eugenia, 265, 267n; violations by British frigates, 300-1; protests diplomatic protocol of TJ’s administration, 423, 424n; accuses French frigates of impressment, 675n Messina, 354n Mexicano (Mexicana) River. See Sabine River Meyer, François, 553n Meyer, Mr.: letter from, 552-3; asks TJ for North American plant seeds, 552-3; list of seeds, 554 Michaux, André: Flora Boreali-Americana, 143, 645; Histoire des chênes de l’Amérique, 645 Michilimackinac: collection district, 673 Middletown, Conn., 41 Middletown, Pa., 384-5 Mifflin, Samuel, 344n, 467 Milan, Italy, 317, 320, 322, 323 Miles, Samuel, 220, 256, 257, 400-1 Milledge, John, 275 Miller, Asher, 41 Miller, John (Va.), 518, 538 Miller, Joseph (Yellow Springs): letter from cited, 732 Miller, William, 456n Milton, Va.: postal service, 157, 161, 334; boats to, from, 162 Minverva (schooner), 87 Miró, Fort, 694 Mississippi River: gunboats, 33-4, 36; French privateers in, 35, 36n, 363-5; free navigation of, 47, 409; great bend of, 81; descriptions of, 635; public lands along, 642 Mississippi Territory: land office east of Pearl River, 12, 170, 476, 485, 487-8, 606n, 689, 703, 712; descriptions of, 83; elections in, 83; fecundity of population, 83; land office west of Pearl River, 83-4, 106, 122, 126, 169-70, 261n, 476, 485, 689, 703; governor, 234, 261n; judges, 234, 237, 306, 687-8, 689, 703, 712; unhealthy climate of, 555; land claims in, 598n; cotton cultivation in, 642; sale of public lands in, 642; courts in, 688.
See also Federalists; Mobile, W. Fla.; Natchez; Republicans; Tombigbee River; Washington County, Miss. Terr. Missouri Fur Company, 523n, 649n Missouri River, 81, 89, 635. See also Lewis and Clark expedition Mitchell, David Brydie, 190n, 617-18 Mitchell, Nahum, 716, 723, 725n Mitchell, Nathaniel, 543 Mitchell, Samuel, 38, 570, 571-2n Mitchill, Samuel Latham, 262, 496, 716, 720 Mittelwalde, Germany, 515, 612 Mobile, W. Fla.: establishment of collection district at, ix, 26, 31, 35, 36n, 300, 301n, 306, 349, 403, 430, 431n, 466-7, 507-8, 664, 669, 671-2, 680-1, 690, 703; interference with U.S. shipping at, 12; Spanish duties charged on U.S. goods at, 12, 13n Mobile River, 12, 570, 642 Molierm Henry, 168 Molina, Juan Ignacio: Compendio, 112, 113n Moniteur de la Louisiane (New Orleans), 82n Monroe, Elizabeth Kortright, 435n Monroe, James: letter from, 432-5; and J. B. Prevost, 124-5n; carries letters for TJ, 145, 146; relationship with R. R. Livingston, 186n, 216-17, 252, 435; reports alleged alliance between Britain and Bourbons, 200, 223-4; rumored resignation of, 204; correspondence with Madison, 216-17n, 252, 432, 435n; sends news of European affairs, 216-17n, 432-5; reports fraud committed in name of Preble, 234, 235n; special envoy to Spain, 300, 364, 432, 435, 463, 522n, 527-8, 647-8, 688, 702, 712; and W. Jackson’s letters, 365n; rumored appointment as governor of Orleans Terr., 366n, 477; negotiations with Britain, 432-5; and Louisiana Purchase, 434; letter of credence, 527-8; instructions for negotiations with Spain, 527-8n; and W. Herries, 636n Monroe, John: letter from, 394-5; asks TJ for money, 394-5 Monson, Eneas, Jr., 75n Mont-Dore, France, 13, 503 Montegut, Joseph, Sr.: characterized, 20, 22
774
INDEX Montgomery, John (Md.), 560-1, 568n Monthly Military Repository (Charles Smith), 573n Monticello: biannual visits to, by TJ, xii, 105, 131, 136-7, 162; glass for, xii, 76, 95, 137, 252, 734; sheet iron for, xii, 342-5, 346-7, 399, 427, 428, 483, 484, 599, 636, 695-6; garden, 31, 112; TJ invites friends to, 59, 105, 136, 163, 199, 274, 334, 403-4, 449, 646; skylights, 76n; groceries and supplies for, 105, 127, 136-7, 162, 211-12, 252, 729; TJ invites family to, 105, 160; orchards, 112; various visitors to, 113, 188n, 356, 643, 651n; artwork at, 113n; ornaments for, 136; venetian blinds for, 136, 137n, 211, 212, 362, 427, 428, 475; locks, 137; polygraph for, 137, 493; postal service to, from, 157, 161, 258; painting, 181; renovation and expansion of, 191, 226, 290; bricklayers at, 226; housejoiners at, 226; plastering, 226, 245n; roads to, from, 274, 334; roofing, 342-5, 346-7, 399, 427, 428; dome, 343, 427; gutters, 343-4, 346, 427; Madison visits, 362, 424n; timber for, 412, 424-5; balusters, balustrade, 427; cellar, 427; Chinese railing, 427, 428; doors, 427, 520, 576-7; greenhouse, 427, 520, 579; parlors, 427, 520; piazzas, 427, 520; porticos, 427, 428; shutters, 427; stairs, 427; tea room, 427; windows, 427, 428, 520; aviary, 428; bedrooms, 428, 520; carpentry at, 428; chicken coop, 428; fences, 428; nursery, 428; offices, 428; plans and sketches, 428; storage areas, 428; halls, 520; sashes, 520, 576-7; stoves for, 636; fowl, poultry at, 654. See also Irujo, Carlos Martínez de; Jefferson, Thomas: Nailery Montpelier: Madisons visit, 185; crops at, 200; TJ visits, 281, 292, 306n, 327, 431-2, 643; water pipes at, 423-4 Montpellier, France, 262-3n, 615n Moore, Andrew, 221, 719, 722 Moore, Nicholas R., 717, 721, 726 Moore, Thomas, 718, 723 Moore, Thomas (Md.), 188n Moore, Thomas (Va.), 637-9, 706 Morales, Juan Ventura: continued presence in Orleans Terr., 255n, 281; and speculation in W. Fla. lands, 314n, 705
Moran, Joseph, 502-3, 518, 538, 732 More, Benjamin, 245, 246n Moreau, Jean Victor, 13, 489, 506 Morgan, Benjamin: characterized, 17, 20, 23, 309; candidate for appointment, 168, 234, 305, 307, 328, 350, 355, 652-3, 712; recommended for appointment, 238, 309; opposes slave trade, 310; recommends aspirants for office, 330n Morgan, Jonathan, Jr.: letter from, 181-3; seeks support for perpetual motion experiment, 181-3; identified, 183n; Granger forwards letter from, 206, 207n Morning Chronicle (New York), 152n Morocco: relations with U.S., 665, 675 Morris, Richard Valentine: criticized by TJ, 111; dismissed from navy, 111; and the Paolina, 275n, 281-2; detained by Hammuda, 281, 282n; letter from cited, 733 Morrison, James, 524, 526 Morrow, Jeremiah, 718, 723 Morton, John A., 515-16, 517n, 731 Morton, Mr., 77 Morton, Samuel George, 353-4n Morton, William (Ky.): letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569 Moser, Philip, 528-9 Mott, James, 717, 723 Moultrie, William, 392 Mugnai, Mr., 325n Muhlenberg, John Peter Gabriel: letter from, 28; and arming of merchant vessels, 25; returns letter to TJ, 28; forwards letters, 389 Muir, John, 490, 547n mules, 98n Mulligan, Francis, 142-3, 161 Munich, Germany, 255n Munroe, Thomas: letters to, 28-9, 56, 91-2, 92, 94, 187; letters from, 33, 50-1, 55, 71-2, 76-7, 92-3, 93, 164-6, 467; as superintendent of public buildings, 27n; culverts for roads in Washington, 28-9; and riotous behavior by Washington laborers, 33, 71-2, 92, 93; and Dougherty’s house, 50-1; and L’Enfant’s claim, 55, 56; and S. Davidson’s claim, 76-7, 91-2, 92-3; and digging at the President’s House, 94; letter from cited, 157n, 730; as postmaster for Washington, 157n; and state of public works in
775
INDEX Munroe, Thomas (cont.) Washington, 164-6, 187, 484; memorandum of expenditures on public buildings and roads, 467; and walls of U.S. Capitol, 483; recommends aspirants for office, 490 murder: case of St. Julien, 35; by, of Indians, 73, 74n, 98-9, 523-4, 656, 657, 675; on Indian lands, 447-8; of Americans in Spanish territories, 535, 536n; and counterfeiters, 639n Murphy, Edward, 340n Murray, John J., 695 Muskingum River, 70 Mutual Assurance Society, 159, 162 Nacogdoches, 339, 340n, 535, 536n, 640n nails: manufacture of, 41. See Jefferson, Thomas: Nailery Nancy. See Nuestra Señora de la Merced (Spanish brig) Nanjemoy, Md.: collector at, 170, 690, 702, 711 Nantes, France, 171-2, 186n, 218n Naples: U.S. relations with, 111, 498; loans gunboats to U.S., 275n, 354n; quarantine at, 498; trade of, 498 Napoleon, Emperor of the French (Napoleon Bonaparte): letter to, 289-90; and Armstrong’s letter of credence, xiii, 219n, 289-90; change in form of title, xiii, 362; plots against, 13n, 255n; and crew of the Philadelphia, 177-8n; and American claims commission, 186n; declared emperor, 186n; and Lafayette, 506, 507n Nassau, Bahamas, 731 Natchez, 256, 294n, 360, 394. See also Mississippi Territory Natchitoches: U.S. garrison at, 250, 339, 340n; Caddo delegation visits, 311-12, 364, 640; Spanish threat to, 339, 363n, 364, 640 National Aegis (Worcester), 532, 533n National Intelligencer (Washington), 119n, 125, 382n. See also Smith, Samuel Harrison Natural Bridge, Va., xlvii, 113n, 354 (illus.), 356 Nature Displayed, in Her Mode of Teaching Language to Man (Nicolas Gouin Dufief), 443-4 Nautilus (U.S. schooner), lii, 371-2n
Navoni, François, 364, 365n Navy, U.S.: recruits, enlistments in, 33; purchase, construction of new vessels, 33-4, 36; gun carriages, 37; navy yards, 63-7, 117-18, 496-7, 533; timber for, 67; geographic distribution of midshipmen, 77-8, 94; navy agents, 110-11, 341; reinforcement of Mediterranean squadron, 111, 177, 275n, 665, 681; pursers, 129; alcoholism in, 144; courts-martial, 202n; provision vessels, 222; fraud committed against, 234-5; clothing contracts, 330-1; navy storekeepers, 341; lists of appointments, promotions, 661, 703-4; surgeons, 661, 704; repairs to navy vessels, 663, 668, 674, 676; criticism of TJ’s naval policies, 674, 676; Mediterranean Fund, 677; letter to cited, 730. See also gunboats; Smith, Robert; Tripoli Nelson, Roger, 717, 721 Nelson, Thomas (York, Va.), 299 Netherlands: travel accounts, 171. See also Batavian Republic Neufville, Isaac: letter from, 192; recommended, seeks appointment, 34-5, 77, 161, 192, 228, 239, 265, 266n, 279, 328-9n; acts in place of ill father, 141-2, 153, 161; identified, 192n; appointed commissioner of loans, 327, 364, 375, 590n, 689, 702, 712 Neufville, John: illness, death of, 34-5, 77, 141-2, 153, 161, 192, 228, 239, 284, 590n, 712 neutral rights: British violations of, 224, 253-4, 300-1, 327-8, 336-7, 663-4, 671; French criticize U.S. neutrality as “illusory,” 254n; always damaged by nations at war, 336-7; French violations of, 336-7, 663-4, 671 New, Anthony, 718, 722 New Bedford, Mass.: collector at, 26, 31; Clark’s Point lighthouse, 629, 632 Newbold, George: letter from, 429; sends pamphlet to TJ, 429; identified, 429n New Bourbon, 80 New Castle, Del., 519, 699-700 New England: maps of, 247n New England Mississippi Land Company, 533n New-England Palladium (Boston), 338n New Hampshire: U.S. attorney, 77, 689, 702; elections in, 85, 279, 335, 350,
776
INDEX 351n; Baptists in, 550n; Grafton, 550n. See also Federalists; Republicans New Harmony, Ind., 260n New-Harmony Gazette, 260n New Haven, Conn.: memorial of merchants of, 75-6; and St. Croix consulship, 75-6; Remonstrance of the Merchants of, 76n; surveyor, 276n; collector, 590n New Jersey: Society of Friends in, 628n New Jersey, College of (Princeton), 44, 195n, 449n, 545n Newlin, Cyrus: letter from, 509; recommends aspirant for office, 509, 656n; identified, 509n Newlin, Robert: letter from, 509; recommends aspirant for office, 509, 656n; identified, 509n New London, Conn., 265-7, 345-6 New Madrid, 80, 81, 82n, 89-90, 123 New Madrid District, 81, 82 New Orleans: yellow fever in, viii-ix, 53-4, 303-4, 311, 325-6, 329, 359, 375, 388, 411, 479, 520, 587, 640; French, Spanish administration of, 21n; militia, 22, 23, 217n; Catholic Church in, 35, 217n, 639; and French privateers, 35, 36n, 363-5; Bayou St. John surveyorship, 52, 310, 387-8, 690, 711; economic potential of, 53; Carondelet Canal, 54, 102, 313; city surveyor, 57n; establishment of post road from Washington to, 184, 206, 334-5, 406n, 459-61; demand for slaves at, 217-18n; diversity of population, 217n; free blacks in, 217n, 254n; Independence Day celebration in, 217n; unhealthy climate of, 217n, 226; and slave trade, 254-5n, 310; racial tensions in, 254n; postal service, 256; French, Spanish influence in, 281, 363n, 607; hospitals, 294n; collector at, 303, 326, 330, 375, 537-8, 542, 551, 568-9, 575, 613-14, 616, 627, 636n; sheriff, 310-11; notaries public, 311; smuggling, 312; memorial from merchants of, 330; U.S. troops at, 349; Saint-Domingue refugees in, 351-2, 353; physicians, 353n; smallpox vaccination in, 359-60; Spanish threat to, 363n; naval officer at, 365, 690; surveyor at, 365, 551, 586, 690; threat of slave insurrection in, 411-12; Spanish records in, 598n; descriptions of, 607; revenue cutter for, 619; Folch
visits, 639-40, 704-5. See also Orleans Territory; Ursuline Nuns of New Orleans Newport, R.I.: collector at, 633, 729; physicians, 634n; French commissary of commercial relations at, 697 New Providence, Bahamas, 731 newspapers: Federalist, 63, 67, 101-2, 104n, 118-19, 129-30, 131n, 150-1, 166-8, 335-6, 511, 567, 647, 674, 696-7, 707, 709n; Republican, 118-19, 130, 149-52, 180, 336n, 696-7; TJ sends writings, information to, 118-19, 166-8; European, 123; TJ’s subscriptions to, 125; seek printing contracts, 149-52, 180; states may limit freedom of the press, 380-1; loss of influence by, 511; attacks by, weaken respect for government, 647 Newsum, William, 211 Newsum, William, Jr, 211 Newton, George, 192, 221 Newton, Sir Isaac: Principia, 40 Newton, Thomas: letter from, 192; introduces son George, 192, 221; recommends aspirants for office, 228; and Greenlaw’s testimony, 639n Newton, Thomas (mariner), 691 Newton, Thomas, Jr., 718, 722 New York: Bath, 7n; commissioner of loans, 77, 689, 702; Clintonians, 107, 180; and election of 1800, 149; Burrites, 151, 180; maps of, 300; surveyor general, 300n; elections in, 413n; counterfeiting in, 639n. See also Republicans New York City: British frigates at, ix-x, 85-6, 127, 224, 300-1, 327, 328, 355, 361-2, 364, 396, 402-3, 529-30, 556, 671, 674-5; Osage delegation visits, xlix, 78, 103, 275, 276n; steeples, 10, 11; manufacturing in, 41-2; navy yard at, 64, 496-7, 533; Tontine Coffee House, 132; newspapers, 149-52, 180; museums, 194-5, 221-2; physicians, 353n; merchants, 393n, 429n; construction of gunboats at, 395; French frigates at, 396, 674-5; banks, 429n; Society of Friends in, 429n; booksellers, 573n; schools, 573n New-York Evening Post, 102n, 118-19, 166-7, 539n New-York Manumission Society, 429n New-York Price-Current (New York), 152n
777
INDEX New York Society for Promoting Communities, 628n Nicholas, Robert Carter, 118-19, 586, 690 Nicholas, Wilson Cary: letter to, 203-4; and Nuestra Señora de la Merced, 26n; recommends aspirants for office, 196, 730; letters from cited, 196n, 730, 731; advises on appointments, 201, 203-4, 280; resigns U.S. Senate seat, 221; letters to cited, 280n, 731; appointment as collector at Norfolk, 690, 702 Nicholls, Edward C., 311 Nichols, Mr. (R.I.), 729 Nicholson, James, 27n Nicholson, Joseph H.: potential minister to Spain, 464; recommends aspirants for office, 490; candidates recommended to, 547n; and committee for defense of harbors, 578-9, 710n; member of Eighth Congress, 717; dines with TJ, 720 Nicoll, John, 75n Nicolson, Andrew, 525 Nile, Battle of the, 317, 322 Noailles, Louis Marie, Vicomte de: estate of, 376, 456-7 Norfolk, Va.: and Nuestra Señora de la Merced, 25, 26n; navy yard at, 64; merchants, 109n; construction of gunboats at, 127, 395; murders in, 639n; collector at, 690, 702, 709n Norman, John, 247n Norristown, Pa., 384 North, Frederick, second Earl of Guilford, Lord: Conciliatory Proposal, 166-8, 205 North Carolina: education in, 174n; militia, 261n; crops in, 336; elections in, 336, 337n; Granville District, 336, 337n; smuggling in, 337; Haitian refugees in, 367; Shell Castle Island lighthouse, 455-6, 474; Beacon Island, 456; free blacks in, 610n; counterfeiting in, 637-9, 694; Indiantown surveyorship, 690, 702 North River. See Hudson River Northumberland, Pa., 384 Norway, 628n Notes on the State of Virginia: and Natural Bridge, xlvii, 113n; and Harpers Ferry, 113n; and slavery, 609-10 Nourse, Joseph, 27n, 67 Noxubee River, 360n
Nuestra Señora de la Merced (Spanish brig), 25, 26n, 31-2 Oakley, John, 140 O’Brien, Richard, 178n, 371, 372n “An Observer” (pseudonym): letter from, 370-1; advises on office of superintendent of military stores, 370-1 Ogden, Abraham, 420, 422n Ogden, Schwartz & Co. (Marseilles), 420, 422n Ogilvie, James (ca. 1775-1820), 213n O’Harnett, John M.: letter from, 347-9; seeks release from indictment, 347-9 Ohio: land speculation in, 70; U.S. attorney, 414, 546; “Sufferers’ Land,” 452-3; descriptions of, 634; sale of public lands in, 642. See also Cincinnati, Ohio; Federalists; Marietta, Ohio; Republicans Ohio River, 605, 634, 642, 667, 683 Olcott, Simeon, 719 Old, James: letter from, 436; writ against W. Stewart, 436; identified, 436n; payment to, 482 Oldham, James: letter to, 519-20; letters from, 494, 576-7; recommended by TJ, 444; seeks employment, 494, 519-20; engaged to make doors and sashes for Monticello, 519-20, 576-7; wages, 520; letter from cited, 729 Olin, Gideon, 716, 722 “Olive Branch Petition” (1775): TJ denies involvement with, 118-19, 205, 539n, 558 Olivier, Julius, 177, 421 Olmütz (Olomouc), Moravia, 503 Olympian Springs, Ky., 569n Oram, James, 150-1, 152n Orange Court House, Va., 274 Orange Springs, Va., 406 Oration, in Honor of the Election of President Jefferson (Abraham Bishop), 338n Oration, Pronounced at Salem, on the Fourth Day of July, 1804, in Commemoration of Our National Independence (Joseph Story), 86, 157 Oration in Commemoration of American Independence (John Ewing Porter), 173-4 Ordinaire, Claude Nicolas: Histoire naturelle des volcans, 645
778
INDEX Ordine dei Santi Maurizio e Lazzaro, 135n Orleans Territory: character sketches of residents, vii, 14-24; governor of, vii, 168, 170, 233, 236, 237, 306, 328, 350, 355, 478, 632, 689, 712; judges, vii, 8-9, 106, 121, 124-5, 155, 168, 170, 180, 181, 183, 201, 207, 233, 236, 279, 306-7, 328, 350, 355, 447n, 478, 587, 632, 689, 712; secretary, vii, 120, 168, 170, 233, 236, 291, 306, 350, 355, 478, 632-3, 689, 712; U.S. attorney, vii, 106, 153, 154-5n, 168, 170, 181, 227-8, 233, 236, 263, 279, 307, 328, 350, 355, 412-13, 689, 691n, 712; legislative council, vii-viii, 8, 52, 168-9, 234, 237-9, 305-6, 307-8, 308-10, 313n, 328, 350, 355, 447, 478, 607, 632-3, 640, 652-3, 675, 711, 712; marshal, vii-viii, 106, 168, 170, 234, 237, 307, 328, 350, 355, 478-9, 586-7, 689, 712; need for bilingual government, vii-viii, 9-11, 168-9, 238-9, 263, 307-8; deputation to carry memorial to Washington, viii, 22, 23-4, 217n, 255n, 449, 451, 478, 535, 653n; demand for slaves in, 7, 217-18n; introduction of English language into courts, 7; and slave trade, 7, 217n, 254-5n, 310, 382n, 452n, 607; support for memorial to Congress, 7, 312-13, 535; criticism of memorial to Congress, 7-8, 217n, 255n, 351, 382, 451-2n, 606-7; memorial calls for self-government, statehood, 7-8, 9n, 217n, 382n, 449-51, 606-7; calls for statehood, self-government in, 7-9, 14n, 90-1, 199, 224, 339, 607; not ready for representative government, 8, 217-18n, 263, 313, 451-2n; insufficiency of salaries in, 8-9; memorial printed in newspapers, 9n, 382n; plant specimens from, 14; creation of government for, 14n, 666, 682; militia, 19, 21n; threat of slave insurrection, 19, 254n; German Coast, 22; Attakapas, 23, 35n, 239, 305, 307, 309, 652-3, 712; Opelousas, 23, 239, 305, 307, 309, 652-3, 712; Catholic Church in, 35, 47-8, 312, 313; gunboat for Lake Pontchartrain, 36; land grant for Lafayette in, 54, 59, 67, 102, 112, 504, 505, 507n, 614; extension of U.S. laws to, 90-1; attorney general, 106; courts, 106; sheriffs, 106; sugar production
in, 137, 191, 225-6, 290; diversity of population, 217n; free blacks excluded from participation in memorial to Congress, 217n, 254n; free blacks in, 217n; memorial opposes abolition of slave trade, 217n, 255n, 382n; continued Spanish presence in, 255n, 281, 363n; descriptions of, 293-4n, 607; Acadian Coast, 305, 306, 307, 652-3, 712; division of appointments among Creoles and Americans, 307-8; Indian affairs in, 311-12, 339, 340n, 535, 536n, 640, 666-7, 682; smuggling, 312; opposition to TJ’s administration in, 338-9; slavery in, 339, 340n, 363n, 640n; Spanish interference in, 339, 340n; unhealthy climate of, 479; salaries of public officials, 632-3; sale of public lands in, 642. See also Louisiana; New Orleans Orpwood (Hopwood), John, 225n Osage, Fort, 649n Osgood, Samuel, 413, 603 Otis, Samuel A.: letters from, 602, 697; forwards copies of Senate records, 602; and publication of TJ’s annual message, 697 Ottoman Empire: trade with U.S., 354n, 424n; won’t recognize U.S. consuls, 354n; and U.S. prisoners at Tripoli, 423, 424n Ouachita River: hot springs, 250, 535, 630-1; settlements on, 250, 535; Anmours’s residence on, 446-7; fossils, specimens from, 630-1; Ouachita Post, 630n, 693-4. See also Dunbar and Hunter expedition Owen, Robert, 260n Oxford (brig), 286, 288 Pacific Ocean, 595 Page, John: letters to, 235, 706-7; letters from, 62, 221, 403-5, 623-5, 637-8, 638, 638-9; invited to Monticello, 62, 221, 403-4; TJ laments lost friends to, 62; introduces G. Newton, 221; sends election news to TJ, 221; and transmission of yellow fever, 235, 404-5; and removal of condemned slaves from Va., 623-5; and Logwood’s case, 637-9, 705-7; letter from cited, 732 Page, Mann, 112, 113n Page, Margaret Lowther, 62, 221, 235, 405
779
INDEX Paine, Thomas: American Crisis, 699 Palmer, Beriah, 716, 722 Pani River. See Platte River Pantin (Pontin), Lewis, 262 Panton, Leslie & Co., 283 Pantops (Eppes estate, Albemarle Co., Va.), 97 Paolina (polacre), 275n, 281-2 pardons: petitions for, 59-60, 137-9, 157, 171, 209-10, 224-5, 227, 390-2, 485-6, 501, 604-5; granted by TJ, 60n, 139n, 210n, 227n, 303, 391-2n, 476, 486n, 501n, 605n Paris: Champs Élysées, 67; Rue Neuve de Berri, 67; hotels, 67-8; Langeac, Hôtel de, 67-8; schools, 67-8; cost of living at, 68; watchmakers, 553n; Montmartre, 635 Parish, William, 196, 730 Parker, Alexander: letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569 Parker, Daniel, 507 Parmelee, David, 606 Parrish, John: letter from, 609-10; sends observations on slavery and the U.S. Constitution, 609-10; identified, 610n Parry, Mr.: letter from cited, 131n Parry, Robert, 267n Parsons, Theophilus, 441n passports: fraudulent use of, 255n, 281, 354n; Neapolitan, 319, 323 Pastey, Vicomte de: letter from, 193; asks to dedicate poem to TJ, 193 patents: brick manufacturing, 46n; button manufacturing, 46n; nail manufacturing, 46n; shingle manufacturing, 46n; steamboats, 46n; circular saws, 183n; signing of, 184; astronomical instruments, 438; British, 438; cost of, 438 Paterson, John, 716, 722 Paterson, N.J., 407n Patterson, Robert, 437-8, 441n, 481n Patterson, William (N.Y.), 172n, 186m Patty (sloop), 691 Paul, St., 316, 321 Peacock, Robert Ware: letter from, 297; recommends aspirant for office, 297 Peale, Charles Willson: letters to, 258-9, 399-400, 493-4, 527, 659-60; letters from, 132-3, 147-8, 259, 297-8, 425-6, 508-9, 625-6; and polygraph, 132-3, 147, 258-9, 297-8, 399-400, 425-6, 493-4, 508-9, 527, 625-6, 659-60; asks TJ to sit for profile, 147-8; re-
ceives mineral specimens from TJ, 148, 259; TJ sends horned lizard to, 148; and Delacoste’s museum, 195n; museum, 259, 425, 508; payments to, 259, 333; resumes work as portrait artist, 259; painting of mastodon exhumation, 259n Peale, Raphaelle, 147-8, 426n Peale, Rembrandt, 132, 259 Peale, Rubens, 259 Pearson, William, 231 Pedesclaux, Peter, 363n Peleg, Mr., 77 Pelham, William: letter to, 260; sends book to TJ, 260; identified, 260n; letter from cited, 260n, 731 Pendergrast, Garrett Elliott: letter from, 293-4; seeks appointment, 293-4; identified, 293-4n Pendleton, Edmund, 112, 113n Penington, Edward, 734 Penn, Richard, 426 Pennsylvania: York Co., 159n; postal service in, 186n, 335, 336n, 384-7; elections in, 220-1, 229-33; Delaware Co., 230-1, 233n; Quids, 233n; Centre Co., 401; iron manufacturing, 401; and Twelfth Amendment, 548. See also Federalists; Philadelphia; Pittsburgh; Republicans Pennsylvania, Bank of, 734 Pennsylvania, University of, 44, 293n, 545n Penrose, Joseph, 229, 233n Penrose, William, 233n Pensacola, W. Fla.: Spanish garrison at, 363n, 704 Perdido (Perdigo) River: claimed as Louisiana boundary, 36n, 46-7, 50, 54, 312, 466n, 528n; free navigation of, 47 Perit, Anthony, 75n perpetual motion, 181-3, 464-5 Perrot, Frédéric, 382 Perrot & Lee (Bordeaux), 516 Perry, George W., 619 Perry, John: and arbitration with J. B. Magruder, 425; TJ’s memorandum of tasks for, 428; payment to, 482n; TJ makes payment for, 732 Perspective View of the Loss of the U.S. Frigate Philadelphia, lii Peru, 112, 113n Peter, Robert, 540-1 Peters, Richard (judge), 264
780
INDEX Petersburg, Va., 518n Petit, Pierre: characterized, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 309; candidate for appointment, 168, 169; recommended for appointment, 238, 309 Peyroux de la Coudrèniere, Henri, 169 Peyton, Craven: letter from, 49; and deeds for Henderson lands, 49; and Henderson warehouse, 482 Peyton, Francis, 138 Peyton, John, 576, 729 Peyton, Robert, 49, 731 Phelps, Oliver, 716, 722 Philadelphia: Osage delegation visits, xlix, 78, 103, 148, 275; navy yard at, 63-7; attorneys, 174n, 412; Republicans in, 204, 229-33, 302, 481n, 547-8; Harp and Eagle tavern, 229, 233n; Rising Sun tavern, 231, 233n; sheriff, 231-2; Jews in, 232; merchants, 254n, 415n, 699; trade with Haiti, 254n; ghost shows, 272n; immigrants to, 272n; opticians, 272n; health of, 305; navy storekeeper at, 341, 342n; postal service, 384-5; construction of gunboats at, 395; yellow fever in, 404; Baptists in, 481n; carpenters, 481n; naval officer at, 547, 548n; surveyor at, 547-8, 690, 702; paper hanging factors, 596n; stationers, 596n; Society of Friends in, 610n; apprentices, 699 Philadelphia (U.S. frigate): negotiations for release of crew, x, 175-8, 185n, 198n, 275n, 371-2n, 423, 424n, 654, 655; captured by Tripoli, li, lii; burned by U.S., lii, 733 Philosophie de Kant (Charles François Dominique de Villers), 645 Phipps, David: deemed unfit for navy promotion, 602; letter from cited, 602n, 732 physiognotrace, xlix, 298 Pichegru, Jean Charles, 185n Pichon, Alexandrine Émilie Brongniart: death of son, ix, 57, 58, 105; invited to visit Montpelier, 281, 292, 363; health of, 644 Pichon, Louis André: letters from, 57-8, 643-4, 698; death of son, ix, 57, 58, 105; protests British warships in U.S. ports, ix, 253-4, 281; and loan from Du Pont, 11n; leaves Washington for Philadelphia, 57, 58; invited to visit Montpelier, 292, 363; and change in
form of French government, 362-3; and delivery of Louisiana Purchase stock, 536, 672-3; protests armed U.S. merchant vessels trading with Haiti, 591; TJ forwards letter to, 643-4; and wine for TJ, 698 Pickering, Timothy: and Boanson, 148; member of Eighth Congress, 719; dines with TJ, 723 Pike, Zebulon Montgomery, 74n Pinckney, Charles: and negotiations over claims convention, ix, 79-80, 300, 349, 397-8, 403, 423, 430-1, 433, 466, 507; rumored departure from Madrid, 79-80, 396, 431n, 432, 512, 514, 702; and Mobile collection district, 300, 301n, 349, 350n, 466, 507; criticized by Irujo, 356; correspondence with Madison, 423, 431n, 507; requests passports, 431n; and Yznardi, 512, 513, 514; letter of recall, 522, 528n; remains at Madrid, 522n; joint mission with Monroe, 528n, 688, 702 Pinckney, Thomas, 392, 574 Pinckney family, 574 Pinkney, William: offered appointment as judge in Orleans Terr., 106, 168, 170, 180, 183, 201, 233, 279, 328, 341, 350; and Md. Bank of England stock, 107n; potential minister to Spain, 463-4; duties on personal baggage of, 659; returns to U.S., 659n Pitot, James: mayor of New Orleans, 14n, 217n; characterized, 16, 18, 20, 23, 309; recommended for appointment, 238, 309; recommends aspirants for office, 330n; and threat of slave insurrection in New Orleans, 411n; administers oath of office to Claiborne, 479 Pitt, William, 217n, 300, 403, 556 Pittsburgh, 290, 384, 386, 634 Plan of the City and Suburbs of New Orleans (Jacques Tanesse), 57n Plans, coupes et élévations (Johann Karl Krafft and Pierre Nicolas Ransonnette), 645 plaster, 635 Plater, Thomas, 717 Platte River, 99, 650 Plattin Creek, 81, 89 Plumer, William, 719, 724 Plymouth, Mass.: collector at, 26n Podophyllum diphyllum. See Jeffersonia diphylla (twinleaf)
781
INDEX Poeyfarré, Jean Baptiste: characterized, 16, 18, 20, 21n Pointe Coupee, 22, 239, 305, 307, 309, 652-3, 712 Poland, 317, 322 Pole, Edward: letter from, 414-15; offers books to Library of Congress, 414-15; identified, 415n Polereczky, John, 455-6 Political and Commercial Register (Philadelphia), 63, 67, 117. See also Jackson, William Polk, William (Md.), 547n Pollard, Joseph: letter from cited, 733 Pollock, George: candidate for appointment, vii, 169, 234, 305, 307, 328, 350, 355, 652-3; characterized, 20, 23; recommends aspirants for office, 330n polygraphs: folding, 132; covers for, 132-3, 147, 297; Latrobe’s improvements, 132-3, 147, 696; pens for, 132-3, 147, 258, 493-4, 508, 626, 659-60; for Monticello, 137, 493; mounting for, 137; praised by TJ, 258, 298, 399-400, 425; springs, 258, 297, 399, 626; Hawkins’s improvements, 298, 425-6, 493, 508-9, 527, 626, 660; portable, 399, 425, 426n, 660; drawers, 425; inkpots for, 425; penbars for, 425; Brunel’s, 425-6; growing popularity of, 425-6; for the State Department, 508, 509n, 527, 626, 659; modifications to, 625-6; manufacture of, 626; prices, 626; use of quills in, 696 Pomona (ship), 417-18, 422n Pontchartrain, Lake, 36 Poole, William: letter from, 509; recommends aspirant for office, 509, 656n; identified, 509n Poor, Charles M.: letter from, 158-9; seeks appointment, 158-9; identified, 159n Pope, Edward, 26, 31 Pope, Thomas, 734 Popham, Sir Home Riggs, 108 Poplar Forest (TJ’s estate), 97, 354 Porcile, Andrea, 135n Porcile, Antonio: letter from, 133-6; ransom, release of his daughter, 133-6; identified, 135-6n Porcile, Carlo Vittorio, 135n Porcile, Giovanni, Conte di Sant’Antioco, 135n
Porcile, Maria Anna: ransom, release of, 133-6 Porcupine’s Gazette (Philadelphia), 130, 131n Porée, Thomas: characterized, 16, 18, 20 Porter, Andrew: family of, 174n; seeks appointment, 589-90, 731, 732; letter from cited, 731 Porter, John Ewing: letter from, 173-4; sends Oration to TJ, 173-4; identified, 174n; letter to cited, 731 Porter, Robert, 174n Porter & King (Bath, Me.), 517 Portsmouth, N.H., 64 Portsmouth, Va., 702 postal service: distrusted, 110, 188; between Monticello and Washington, 157, 161; establishment of post road between Washington and New Orleans, 184, 206, 334-5, 406n, 459-61; establishment, alterations to post roads, 186n, 335, 336n, 384-7; appointments and removals in, 206; postal service through W. Fla., 206; duties of postmaster general, 384-5; postal contracts, 385-6; maps of postal routes, 596n. See also Granger, Gideon Postlethwait, John: letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569 Potomac District, 213n Potter, Charles, 132 Potter, Samuel J., 634n Potter, Thomas M.: letter from, 409; recommends exchanging part of Louisiana for Florida, 409; identified, 409n Pottsgrove, Pa., 384 Pougens, Charles: letter from, 282; publishes catalog, 282 Poughkeepsie, N.Y., 295n poultry: chickens, 341; bantams, 654 Poursuivante (French frigate), 301 Powell, John F., 587 Poydras, Julien: candidate for appointment, vii-viii, 169, 234, 305, 307, 328, 350, 355, 652-3, 712; characterized, 20, 22, 309; recommended for appointment, 23, 239, 309 prairies, 634 Preble, Edward: attack on Tripoli, x, li-lii, 354 (illus.), 371, 497-8, 499, 500n; acquires gunboats from Naples, 177, 275n, 371n; and negotiations for Philadelphia prisoners, 177-8n, 185n,
782
INDEX 371-2, 422n; fraud committed in name of, 234-5; negotiations with Tunis, 275n, 372n; commander of Mediterranean squadron, 354n pregnancy. See women Prentis, Joseph, 690, 702 Prentiss, Joshua, 77 Presbyterians, 179n President (U.S. frigate), 500n President’s House: dinners hosted by TJ at, lii-liii, 354 (illus.), 495, 552, 714-27; free blacks at, 33; riotous behavior by laborers, 33, 71-2; slave laborers at, 33; digging at, 94; drains, sewers, 94, 467, 552; statement of expenditures on, 164-5; cellars, 165, 187; colonnade, 165; bedrooms, 187; floors, 187; ice house, 187; servants, slaves at, 195, 408, 734; coal for, 211, 212, 408, 430, 475, 503, 525, 538, 706; cooks at, 408n; carpenters for, 467; plasterers, 467; roof, 467, 484; gutters, 484; and meridian line at Washington, D.C., 539-41; washhouse, 552; lamps, 595-6, 613, 685-6; criticism of Latrobe’s management of, 696-7; groceries, supplies for, 729, 734; furniture, 734; stable and household accounts, 734. See also Dougherty, Joseph; Jefferson, Thomas: Personal Affairs; Lemaire, Étienne press, freedom of: state laws may limit, 380-1; and the U.S. Constitution, 601 Prevost, John B.: letter to, 124-5; letter from, 155; candidate for appointment, vii, 106, 168, 170; offered, accepts appointment as judge for Orleans Terr., 124-5, 155, 180, 181, 233, 307, 328, 350, 355, 689, 712; identified, 124-5n Prevost, Salomon: letter from, 449-52; characterized, 18, 20, 21n, 22; and Louisiana memorial, 449-52 Price, Chandler, 397 Price, Joseph: manager of Indian Camp, 117, 415-17; letter to cited, 732 Price, Richard (Milton, Va.), 729 Price, William, 208 Prince, Joseph, 577n Princeton, battle of, 481n Principia (Sir Isaac Newton), 40 privateers: French, x, 35, 36n, 48, 354, 363-4, 418, 422n, 578, 591, 671; trespass within U.S. jurisdiction, x, 48, 578; illegally outfitted in U.S.,
533-4; arming of merchant vessels to protect against, 591-5 Prospect Before Us (James Thomson Callender), 6n, 129 Providence, R.I., 335 Prussia, 219n Publius Virgilius Maro. Bucolica, Georgica, et Aeneis (Virgil), 645 Puckshunubbee (Choctaw Indian): letter from, 283; offers to sell land, 283 Purviance, John H., 204, 205n Purviance, Robert, 619, 659n Purviance, Samuel D., 336, 337n, 718 Putnam, Rufus, 155n Qaramanli, Yusuf, Pasha of Tripoli: and Preble’s attack on Tripoli, x, 499, 500n; and French mediation for peace with U.S., 177-8n, 275n; peace negotiations with, 177-8n, 422n; and Philadelphia prisoners, 177-8n, 275n quadrants, 32, 437-8, 441n Quakers. See Friends, Society of quarantine: at Naples, 498 Queen’s College, N.J., 300n Rafinesque, Constantine S.: letter to, 163-4; letter from, 143-4; sends seeds to TJ, 143-4; identified, 143-4n; thanked by TJ, 163-4 Ramsdell, Capt., 332n Randall, John: letter from, 458-9; seeks appointment, 457, 489, 490; identified, 458-9n Randolph, Anne Cary (TJ’s granddaughter): TJ’s affection for, 495, 616, 654; encouraged to write to TJ, 654 Randolph, Ariana Jenings: estate of, 248-9, 299 Randolph, Cornelia Jefferson (TJ’s granddaughter): visits Natural Bridge with TJ, xlvii; TJ’s affection for, 495, 616, 654 Randolph, Edmund: letter from, 405; and estate of Ariana Randolph, 248, 299; and TJ’s legal action against Richard Johnson, 405; and TJ’s Summary View, 539 Randolph, Ellen Wayles, II (TJ’s granddaughter): letter from, 152; visits Natural Bridge with TJ, xlvii; writes first letter to TJ, 152; TJ’s
783
INDEX Randolph, Ellen Wayles, II (cont.) affection for, 495, 616, 654; tends fowl, poultry at Monticello, 654 Randolph, John (1727-1784), 248 Randolph, John (of Roanoke): and bill for defense of harbors, 578; and annual message to Congress, 663; member of Eighth Congress, 718; dines with TJ, 720, 726 Randolph, Martha Jefferson (Patsy, Mrs. Thomas Mann Randolph, TJ’s daughter): letters to, 105, 495, 654; and Melinda Colbert Freeman, 97; and TJ’s visit to Monticello, 105; importance to TJ following sister’s death, 112; writes letters for her children, 152n; J. W. Eppes’s affection for, 160; and R. Richardson, 290; offers to host Sarah McKean Irujo, 398; TJ’s affection for, 495, 616, 654; and TJ’s return to Washington, 495; TJ sends magazines, news from Washington to, 654 Randolph, Mary Jefferson (TJ’s granddaughter): TJ’s affection for, 495, 616, 654; health of, 521 Randolph, Peter (d. 1767), 248 Randolph, Peyton, 248, 558 Randolph, Thomas Jefferson (TJ’s grandson): TJ’s affection for, 495, 616, 654; TJ sends magazine to, 495 Randolph, Thomas Mann (TJ’s sonin-law): letters to, 511, 616; letter from, 520-1; and R. Peyton, 49; and Crowninshield, 86; TJ’s affection for, 105, 495; and R. Richardson, 290; and death of H. B. Trist, 326, 511, 520-1; and dispute between Craven and Lilly, 521, 616; recommends aspirants for office, 521; sends news of family, plantation affairs, 521; arrival in Washington, 654; stays at President’s House, 715; member of Eighth Congress, 718 Randolph, Virginia Jefferson (TJ’s granddaughter): health of, 152; TJ’s affection for, 495, 616, 654 Ransonnette, Pierre Nicolas: Plans, coupes et élévations, 645 Rapp, Johann Georg: and land for German immigrants, 62-3, 70-1, 106, 107n Rauch, Friedrich August: Harmonie hydro-végétale et météorologique, 645
Ray, Jacob, 189-90 Rea, John, 717, 723 Read, George, Jr., 464 Read, Jacob, 392 Reading, Pa., 384 Rebecca (ship), 418-20 Recorder (Richmond), 6n Red River: exploration of, 30, 99, 103-4; dividing line between Indian nations, 78; Indians residing on, 339 Reed, John (N.Y.): letter from, 294-5; asks TJ for money, 294-5; identified, 295n Reed, William (Alexandria), 138 refrigerators, 188n Reibelt, Philippe: letter from, 644-5; payments to, 526n; sends catalog to TJ, 644-5; list of books sent to TJ, 645-6 Reich, John, xlviii religion: freedom of, 78-9. See also Christianity; Jefferson, Thomas: Religion; Ursuline Nuns of New Orleans Remarks on the Slavery of Black People (John Parrish), 610n Repertory of Arts, Manufactures, and Agriculture, 298 Republicans: seek removal of Federalists, 26n, 232, 302, 429, 574; in Ohio, 27n; in Miss. Terr., 83, 188, 310; make gains in New England, 85, 111, 127; in Mass., 85, 144, 206, 279, 335, 350, 530-3; in N.H., 85, 279, 335, 350, 351n, 550; and death of Hamilton, 107, 232; printers, newspapers, 118-19, 149-52, 180, 336n; demand printing contracts, 149-52, 180; in New York City, 149-52; in Del., 154, 232-3n, 542-4, 656; in Pa., 174n, 186n, 204, 220-1, 229-33, 264, 302, 341, 481n, 547-8, 590; divisions among, 180, 188, 204, 229-33, 264, 302, 341, 429, 530-1, 533n, 547-8, 590; in N.Y., 180; in R.I., 180, 429; in Conn., 206, 335, 337-8, 429; in Ky., 209; Quids, 233n; and election of 1804, 279; in Maine, 279; in Orleans Terr., 310-11; shortage of talents among, 310-11, 530; in N.C., 336, 337n; fear selfishness of rulers, 381; electioneering by Republican officeholders, 413; in S.C., 528-9, 574; and Twelfth Amendment, 531; and Yazoo claims, 531, 533n; in Md., 559-64;
784
INDEX social intercourse with Federalists, 646-7; in Va., 709n Restitution (ship), 704 revenue cutters: appointments to, 196, 284, 303, 619, 712, 730 Rhea, John: and ratification of Twelfth Amendment, 218n, 252; and W. MacRea, 454; member of Eighth Congress, 719; dines with TJ, 723, 726 Rhine River, 270, 272 Rhode Island: commissioner of loans, 77, 180, 201, 429, 729, 731; elections in, 633-4; militia, 634n. See also Newport, R.I.; Providence, R.I.; Republicans Rhode Island, College of (Brown University), 236n, 634n Richards, Jacob, 717, 722 Richardson, Richard: letter to, 225-6; letters from, 190-1, 290-1; plans to leave Jamaica for Louisiana, 190-1, 225-6, 290-1, 407, 555 Richmond, Va.: dentists, 280n; coal from, 430, 525 Riddell, John, 547n Ridgley, John, 661, 704 Ridgway, Jacob, 255n, 281 Rigaud, André, 289n Riker, Samuel, 715, 716, 721 Rind, Clementina, 558n Ringgold, Mr., 214 Rio Grande (Rio Bravo), 47, 50 Rising Sun tavern: meeting of Pa. Republicans at, 231, 233n Rittenhouse, David: Rittenhouse stove, 636-7, 696 Rivanna River, 162 roads: culverts, 28-30; through Indian territory, 184, 460, 461n. See also postal service Robelot, Nicolas: letter from, 449-52; and Louisiana memorial, 449-52 Roberts, William (artist): letter from, 113; gives paintings of Natural Bridge and Harpers Ferry to TJ, xlvii, 113 Robertson, J. M., 467 Robertson, Thomas, 459 Robinson, Mary: Winter’s Day, 495 Robinson, Mr. (Richmond, Va.), 37 Roche, Edward: letter from, 698-701; seeks appointment, 698-701; identified, 701n Rochester, Mass., 26n Rockfish Gap, Va., 643 Rodgers, John, 675n
Rodney, Caesar A.: letter from, 542-4; and Hargis, 154, 155n; potential minister to Spain, 464; reports on Delaware elections, politics, 542-4; health of, 543; as reference, 656, 701; member of Eighth Congress, 717; dines with TJ, 720; letter from cited, 729; recommends aspirants for office, 729 Rodney, Thomas: reports on proceedings of land commissioners, 84; considered for appointment as governor of Miss. Terr., 106, 168, 170, 234; descriptions of fossils, 407n Rogers, Hezekiah: letter from, 275-6; reports on Osage delegation, 275-6; identified, 276n Rogers, William (navy surgeon), 661, 704 Roman, Jacques Étienne: characterized, 20, 23, 478, 711; candidate for appointment, 169, 234, 305, 307, 328, 350, 355, 478, 652-3, 712 Root, Erastus, 716, 722 roses, 240, 242 Rosewell (John Page’s estate), 221 Ross, James (Lancaster): letters from cited, 364, 365n, 731 Ross’s Tavern (Bladensburg, Md.), 57, 58 Rota, Spain, 468n, 511, 513 Rouse, Alpheus: letter from, 295-7; asks TJ for money, patronage, 295-7 Roux-Bordier, Jacques, 145, 146, 147n Rover (brig), 734 Rowan, John (Ky.): letter from, 568-9; recommends aspirant for office, 568-9; identified, 568-9n Royal Gift (donkey), 98n Rozier, François: Dictionnaire universel d’agriculture, 475, 476n Rue, Benjamin, 154, 179-80 Ruffin, William, 577n Rufini, Mr., 281 Rumford, Count. See Thompson, Benjamin (Count Rumford) Rush, Benjamin: letter to, 204-5; letter from, 304-5; treasurer of the Mint, 27n; Inquiry into the Effects of Ardent Spirits, 204, 205n; TJ sends his views on the doctrines of Jesus to, 204, 304; seeks appointment for his son, 204-5, 304; letters from cited, 204-5n, 235n, 730; and transmission of yellow fever, 235, 304-5, 404, 405n; Medical Inquiries and Observations, 304-5; family of, 545n
785
INDEX Rush, John (son of Benjamin Rush): letter to, 605; letter from, 544-5; sends Elements of Life to TJ, 544-5; identified, 545n; thanked by TJ, 605 Rush, Julia Stockton, 545n Rush, Richard, 204-5n, 304, 730 Russell, Benjamin, 130 Russell, George, 586n Russell, Jonathan: considered for commissioner’s appointment, 77; and B. Tupper, 154, 155n; and relocation of R.I. loan office, 429; potential minister to Spain, 464 Russell, Thomas, 441 Russia: relations with France, 185n, 498; relations with U.S., 185n, 218n, 423, 654-5; trade with, 218n, 654-5; influence on Ottoman Empire, 423. See also Alexander I, Emperor of Russia Rustic, Thomas. See Duffy, Thomas (Thomas Rustic) rutabaga (Swedish turnip), 13-14 Rutgers, Henry, 150 Rutledge, Edward, 167 Rutledge family, 574 Rutter, Thomas, 77, 689, 702 Sabine River, 47, 536n Saint Croix River, 253 Saint-Domingue, W.I. See Haiti (Saint-Domingue) Saint Mary’s Academy (Baltimore), 519 Saint Marys River, 253 Saint-Mémin, Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de, xlix Saint-Paul, N. D. F. de: letter from, 611-12; sends writings on public finance to TJ, 611-12 Salieri, Antonio, 152n Salmoneus, King of Elis, 374n salt: calls to repeal of tax on, 532 Saltonstall, Nathaniel, 346n saltpeter, 10, 11, 212-13 Samadet & Cushing (Marseilles), 418-21 Sammons, Thomas, 715, 716, 723 Sandford, Thomas, 719, 723 Sands, Joshua, 716 Sandy Hook, N.J., 218n, 254n Sanford, Nathan, 675n Santa Bogue Creek, 360n Santa Cruz, Alvaro Navia Osorio, Marqués de, 709, 710n
Sant’Antioco, Conte di. See Porcile, Giovanni, Conte di Sant’Antioco Santo Domingo (city): commercial agent at, 549-50, 612 Saratoga, battle of, 300n, 556 Sardinia: Tunisian raids on, 133-6; San Pietro, 135n Sauvé, Pierre: candidate for appointment, vii, 169, 306, 307, 328, 350, 355, 478, 652-3; characterized, 20, 24, 535; deputy to carry Louisiana memorial, 24, 255n, 449, 451, 478, 535, 653n Savage, William, 354n, 362 Savannah, Ga.: gunboats for, 127; Saint-Domingue refugees at, 351, 352; physicians, 353n; and French privateers, 363, 578; construction of gunboats at, 395 Schuyler, Peter Philip, 26, 606 Schuylkill Arsenal, 481n, 598n science: perpetual motion, 181-3, 464-5; learned societies, 615n, 628n. See also astronomy; botany; Jefferson, Thomas: Scientific Interests Scotland: immigrants from, 22, 238, 309, 636n; descriptions of, 695n Scott, Charles, 30n Scott, Edward, 732 Scott, James (physician), 102, 359-60 Scott, John M., 169, 314n, 712 Scott, Joseph T.: letter from cited, 732 Scourge (U.S. brig), li seamen. See impressment Searcy, Edmund: letter from, 30; seeks appointment, 30 Seaver, Ebenezer, 716, 721, 726 Sedition Act (1798): TJ halts, pardons prosecutions under, 130, 243, 621; criticism of, 347, 349n, 372 Sergeant, John, 228 servants. See President’s House Sevier, John, 218n, 252, 361n sextants, 107-8, 694 Shadwell (TJ’s estate), 482n Shaw, John (Miss. Terr.), 188 Shaw, John (navy officer), 661, 703 Sheafe, James, 172n Sheaff, Henry: letter from cited, 729; TJ orders wine from, 729 Sherburne, John Samuel, 464 sheriffs: accused of collecting exorbitant fees, 231-2 Shields, William B., 169, 598, 729 shingles: manufacture of, 41-2, 46
786
INDEX shipbuilding, 63-7 Shipman & Denison (New Haven, Conn.), 75n Shippen, Edward, 357, 370 Shippensburg, Pa., 384 Shoenstein, Charles S.: letter from cited, 732 Short, Peyton, 30n Short, William: letters to, 58-9, 136, 415-17, 707-8; letters from, 117, 646-8; TJ’s debt to, 58, 117, 136, 273, 333, 334, 646, 708, 732; and wine for TJ, 58-9, 117, 646, 707; invited to Monticello, 59, 136, 646; travels of, 117, 646; tenants, 415-17; TJ sends account of Indian Camp rents to, 415-17, 646; and TJ’s accounts as minister to France, 598; sends observations on politics, foreign relations, 646-8; TJ sends political observations to, 707-8 Shubin, Fedot, 198n Sibley, George C., 649n Sibley, John: letter from, 338-40; recommended for appointment, 239, 309; characterized, 309; sends observations on Indian trade, relations with Spain, 338-40 Sicily, 317, 321, 325n, 354n, 498 Sierra Leone, 623, 625n silkworms, 475-6 silver, 102, 128, 500 Simons, James: correspondence with secretary of the Treasury, 264, 315, 327, 328n; and condemnation of schooner Eliza, 533-4, 604; calls for removal of, 573-4 Simons, Robert: letter from, 627; seeks appointment, 574, 627 Simons, Thomas, 392 Simpson, James, 675n Siren (U.S. brig), li, lii Skene, Alexander, 266-7, 346n Skinner, Tompson J.: appointed commissioner of loans, 77, 689, 702; rumored dissatisfaction with TJ’s administration, 531 Skipwith, Fulwar: letter to, 69-70; TJ introduces Armstrong to, 67, 69; dispute with Robert R. Livingston, 69, 216, 218n, 252; and wine for TJ, 69-70; and American debt claims, 217n, 218n, 252, 423; recommended for New Orleans collectorship, 636n; and W. Herries, 636n Slacum, George, 225
Slaughter, Robert, 448 slavery: Spanish interference with, 339, 340n, 363n; abolition, manumission societies, 429n, 509n, 610n; criticism of, 609-10; and the U.S. Constitution, 609-10; writings on, 610n slaves: ongoing threat of insurrection by, 19, 191, 254n, 411-12; refuse to join labor riot, 33; hiring of, 97, 141n, 424; marriage of, 97-8; Indians as, 101; manumission of, 139-41, 624; purchase of, 139-41; children of, 160; relationship with white children, 160; food for, 190; education of, 191; runaway, 339, 340n, 363n, 640n; as collateral, security, 369; sale of, 369; as cooks, 408n; owned by Indians, 461n; taxes on, 482n, 624; free blacks returned to bondage, 610n; removal of condemned, from Va., 623-5; only some deemed “worthy” of freedom, 624. See also blacks; Jefferson, Thomas: Slaveholder slave trade: prohibition, suppression of, 7, 217-18n, 254n; support for continuation of, 254-5n, 310, 382n; and the U.S. Constitution, 609-10 Sloan, James, 717, 721 smallpox, 263n, 359-60 Smallwood, Charles (pardon seeker): letter from, 485-6; petition for pardon, 485-6; pardoned by TJ, 486n Smallwood, Samuel N., 193n, 245-6, 689, 702 Smilie, John, 717, 721, 726 Smith, Albert, 26n Smith, Alexander, 138, 225 Smith, Alexander (Md.), 547n Smith, Charles (New York): letter from, 573; sends book to TJ, 573; identified, 573n Smith, Charles (Va.), 162 Smith, Christopher, 131, 162 Smith, Daniel, 464, 689 Smith, Israel, 719, 721, 726 Smith, James S., 692 Smith, John (N.Y.), 719, 721 Smith, John (navy officer), lii, 661, 703 Smith, John (Ohio), 651n, 719, 722 Smith, John (Va. congressman), 718, 722 Smith, John (War Department): letter to, 236; letter from, 291; prepares commissions, 236, 291; identified, 236n; letter from cited, 731
787
INDEX Smith, John Cotton, 716, 723 Smith, John H., 208 Smith, Jonathan, 734 Smith, Josiah (Mass.), 26n Smith, Larkin: letter from, 708-9; no longer seeks appointment, 708-9; identified, 709n; letters from cited, 709n Smith, Luther, 340n Smith, Robert: letters to, 36, 51, 77-8, 183, 302, 355-6, 533; letters from, 33-4, 51, 94-5, 117-18, 125, 129, 144, 341-2, 371-2, 395-6, 584-5, 594, 602, 603, 660, 676; declines dinner invitation, 33; health of, 33; construction, deployment of gunboats, 33-4, 36, 51, 355, 395, 663, 676; construction of additional brigs, 34, 36; forwards commissions, warrants, 51, 125, 129, 371; and Callis appointment, 77-8, 94-5, 115; TJ sends recommendation, news of Indian delegation to, 77-8; geographic distribution of midshipmen, 94; absence from Washington, 105; consuls as navy agents, 110-11; dispute with Truxtun, 117-18, 268-70, 302, 341; observations on BurrHamilton duel, 118, 144; Marine Corps, 125; conduct of T. Cooper, Jr., 144; appointment offer for W. Pinkney, 180, 183, 341; and divisions among Republicans in Pa., 341; navy storekeeper at Philadelphia, 341, 342n; TJ sends Orleans Terr. arrangements to, 355-6; Mediterranean squadron, 371-2; British frigates at New York, 396; returns to Washington, 396; as reference, 458; attends cabinet meetings, 507; advises on appointments, 533, 602, 603; alleged criticism of J. F. Mercer, 561; advises on bill for preservation of peace in harbors and waters, 578, 584-5; arming of U.S. merchant vessels, 591, 594; advises on bill to regulate the clearance of armed vessels, 595; sends list of naval appointments, 660-1; advises on annual message to Congress, 662-3, 676; repairs to navy vessels, 676. See also Navy, U.S. Smith, S., & Buchanan: letter from, 704; and the Rebecca, 418-19; forwards bust of Alexander I, 704 Smith, Samuel (Md.): letters from, 62-3, 365-6; introduces Hoffman and Rapp,
62-3; recommends aspirants for office, 75n, 365-6, 516, 517n, 586n; and J. Barney’s claim, 254; and Truxtun, 269, 270n; as reference, 458; potential minister to Spain, 464; letter from cited, 517n, 731; and annual message to Congress, 663; member of Eighth Congress, 719; dines with TJ, 720, 726 Smith, Samuel Harrison: letters to, 118-19, 166-8, 214-15; letters from, 125, 205; and TJ’s involvement with “Olive Branch Petition,” 118-19, 166-8, 205, 214-15; payments to, 125. See also National Intelligencer (Washington) Smith, Sir Sidney, 108 Smith, Sophia Ann Tazewell Taliaferro, 708, 709n Smith, Thomas Rhett, 529 Smith, Uriah: letter from, 550; sends writings to TJ, 550; identified, 550n Smith, Woodward & Co. (New Haven, Conn.), 75n smuggling, 36, 312, 337 Smyth, Thomas, Jr., 170 Snake Creek. See Santa Bogue Creek Sneed, Griffin, 252 Snow, James: letter from, 59-60; petition for pardon, 59-60; pardoned by TJ, 60n Society of Associated Teachers of New York, 573n Söderström, Richard, 55 Somers, Richard, lii, 499, 500n, 661, 703 Somerset (Macon home), 520n Soulié, John (Jean): letter from, 449-52; characterized, 17, 19, 20, 21n; and Louisiana memorial to Congress, 449-52 Southard, Henry, 717, 722 South Carolina: commissioner of loans, 34-5, 77, 141-2, 153, 161, 192, 228, 239, 265, 279-80, 281, 284, 303, 315, 327, 340, 364, 375, 590n, 689, 702, 712; loan officer, 34-5; commissioners of Direct Tax, 142, 161; and Twelfth Amendment, 181; cotton manufacturing in, 192n; treasurers, 228n; Newberry Co., 286n; and French privateers, 354, 363; elections in, 528-9; counterfeiting in, 638n, 639n. See also Charleston, S.C.; Federalists; Republicans
788
INDEX South Carolina Homespun Company, 192n Southington, Conn., 338n Southwest Point, Tenn., 453, 658
Spain acquiesces to Louisiana Purchase, 664, 672, 681. See also Florida; Louisiana; Mobile, W. Fla.; New Orleans; Pinckney, Charles
Spain Colonies and Osages, 73, 74n; French privateers operate from, 86; American settlers barred from, 339; and runaway slaves, 339, 340n, 363n. See also Louisiana; Texas Economy and Indian trade, 339, 340n Foreign Relations threat of war with Britain, 432, 434, 435n Society yellow fever in, 512, 513-14 U.S. Relations with convention on claims, ix, 77, 79-80, 300, 301n, 356, 397-8, 403, 417, 430-1, 466, 507, 528n, 669, 671-2, 681; and establishment of Mobile collection district, ix, 300, 301n, 349, 356, 397-8, 403, 430, 431n, 466-7, 507-8, 664, 669, 671-2, 680-1, 684n; and Louisiana boundary, ix, 31, 46-7, 54, 185n, 301n, 432-3, 466n, 528n, 535, 536n, 617, 672, 681, 712; threat of war with U.S., ix, 410, 430, 607-8, 617, 629, 640; interference with U.S. shipping, commerce, 12-13, 86, 409; cargoes of distressed vessels, 25, 26n, 31-2; Spanish armed vessel in Lake Pontchartrain, 36; and western Indians, 74n, 339, 340n; and western exploration, 104, 250, 535; continued Spanish presence in Orleans Terr., 255n, 281, 363n, 535, 704-5; and land sales in W. Fla., 313-14n, 705; interferes in Indian relations, 339, 340n, 364, 535, 536n, 640n; and runaway slaves, 339, 340n, 640n; and Irujo’s conduct, 357-9; Spanish threat to U.S. settlements, 363-4; reinforcement of Spanish posts, 364; and navigation of Mississippi River, 409; U.S. minister to, 463-4, 522; and Wilkinson, 555; and Kemper riot, 608, 629; and Godoy, 647-8;
Sparks, Richard, 394-5 Spencer, Oliver H., 326-7, 692 Spitfire (U.S. bomb ketch), li Sprague, John, 26n Sprague, Samuel, 26n Sprigg, Richard, Jr., 173n Sprigg, William O., 189, 203, 214, 255-6 springs: medicinal springs, 13, 58n; Mont-Dore, 13 St. Andrews (Louisiana District), 80, 82n St. Andrew’s Society (N.Y.), l-li St. Bernard, Bay of. See Matagorda Bay St. Charles, 80, 81, 123 St. Charles District, 81, 89 St. Croix, W.I., 75-6 St. Ferdinand, 80 St. Francis River, 81, 571 St. Germain, France, 67 St. John’s College (Annapolis), 445n St. Julien, Pierre Louis, 35, 47, 48n St. Louis: descriptions of, 80; as district seat, 81, 123; meeting of delegates at, 284, 286n, 649n; founding of, 523n St. Louis District, 81, 82, 89, 314 St. Petersburg, Russia, 198n St. Stephens, Fort, 606n, 687n, 690 St. Vincent, John Jervis, earl of, 438 Stadler, Joseph Constantine, xlvii, 113n Stanford, Algernon S., 547n Stanford, Richard, 547n, 715, 718, 721 Stanley, William, 577n Stansbury, Abraham Ogier, 132, 133n Stanton, Joseph, Jr., 716, 722, 726 State, U.S. Department of: letter to, 476; clerks, 27-8n; messengers, 27-8n; and R. King’s accounts, 48; consuls as navy agents, 110-11; consular appointments, 171-2, 173, 550n; letter from cited, 303n, 731; consuls should be U.S. citizens, 468; TJ requests pardon, commissions from, 476; polygraphs for, 508, 509n, 527, 626, 659. See also Madison, James; Wagner, Jacob Ste. Genevieve, 80, 81, 123 Ste. Genevieve District, 81, 82, 89 steamboats, 40, 42-6 Stedman, William, 716, 723
789
INDEX steel, 401 Steele, John (comptroller of the Treasury), 464 Stephens, William: letter from, 617-18; recommends aspirant for office, 617-18; identified, 617-18n Stephenson, James, 717, 723, 724n Sterett, Andrew, 661, 703 Steuart (Stewart), Robert, 467 Steuart (Stewart), William, 467 Stevens, Ebenezer, 556-7 Stewart, Charles, lii, 661, 703 Stewart, John (Pa.): opposes changes to mail route, 186n, 335, 336n, 384-7; member of Eighth Congress, 717; dines with TJ, 722 Stewart, William (blacksmith), 428, 438 Stiles, Ezra, 552n Stoddard, Amos: letter from, 625; sends information on population, divisions of Louisiana, 81, 82n; conference with Sacs and Foxes, 572n; forwards Indian vocabularies, 625; forwards news from Lewis and Clark, 650; forwards description of lead mines, 684-5n Stoddert, Benjamin, 4, 6n Stoddert, Fort: Spanish duties on supplies for, 12; as port of entry, 26, 31, 306n, 690, 703, 711; postal route through, 461; land office at, 476; and death of E. Kirby, 606 Stone, David, 464, 719, 721 Storm, Thomas H., 173 Story, Joseph: Oration, 86, 157; candidate for appointment, 170 strawberries, 112 Stricker, John, 516, 517n Strickland, William, xlvii Strode, John, 102 Stuart (Stewart), Archibald: letter to, 449; letter from, 426; introduces G. Goosley, 426; invited to Monticello, 449 Stuart, Gilbert: portrait of Abigail Adams, l, 354 (illus.); portrait of TJ, 279 sugar: price of, 190; in Jamaica, 190-1, 290; in Louisiana, 191, 290; cargoes of, 419 suicide, 687n Sulayman, Mawlay, Sultan of Morocco, 675n Sulphur Springs, Pa., 386
Summary View of the Rights of British America, 539, 557-8 Summers, Lewis, 138, 391 Sumter, Thomas, Jr., 168, 252 Sumter, Thomas, Sr.: letter to, 126; letter from, 410; and T. Fitzpatrick, 126, 169, 410; reports on Burr’s movements, 410; dines with TJ, 715, 721; member of Eighth Congress, 719 Sunbury, Pa., 384 Susquehanna Canal Company, 567-8n Susquehanna River, 519, 567n Sutherland, William, 414 Swan, James, 219n, 252, 254 Swann, Thomas, 138 Swartwout, John, 149, 488-9 Swartwout, Samuel, 449n Sweden, 176, 185n, 218n, 301n, 498 Switzerland: immigrants from, 18, 186n, 270-2, 325; Bern canton, 553 Syracuse, 499, 500n Tableau du climat et du sol des ÉtatsUnis d’Amérique (Constantin François Chasseboeuf Volney), 202, 290, 291n, 414, 645 Table River, 81 Taggart, Samuel, 716, 723 Talismano (Antonio Salieri), 152n Tallapoosa River, 459 Talleyrand-Périgord, Charles Maurice de, 362 Tallmadge, Benjamin, 716, 724 Tanesse, Jacques: letter from, 56-7; seeks appointment, 56-7; identified, 57n; Plan of the City and Suburbs of New Orleans, 57n Tarascon, Louis Anastase, 143n Tassoni Estense, Giulio Cesare, 320, 331 Tatnall, Joseph, 701 taxes: on slaves, 482n, 624; calls to repeal tax on salt, 532; repealed during TJ’s administration, 621 Taylor, George, Jr.: as W. Short’s agent, 58, 59n, 417n, 646, 729, 732; letters to cited, 59n, 729, 732; letters from cited, 729, 732 Taylor, John: letter from, 13-14; sends rutabaga seeds to TJ, 13-14 Taylor, John (N.C.), 456, 474 Taylor, Mrs., 113 Taylor, William (gunner), 51
790
INDEX Tazewell, Henry, 708 Tazewell, Littleton W., 709n Telegraphe (New Orleans), 14n Telegraphe and Daily Advertiser (Baltimore), 193n telescopes, 441n Tennessee: and Twelfth Amendment, 181, 215-16, 218n, 274, 279; militia, 360-1, 407n; Jefferson Co., 361n Tenney, Samuel, 716, 724 Tensaw River, 687-8 Terrell, Chiles, 366, 374n Terrell, Henry: letter from, 372-4; expresses support, friendship for TJ, 372-4; identified, 374n Terrell, Henry (of Caroline), 374n Terrell, Margaret Douglas Meriwether, 366 Terry, Anthony, 397, 512, 513 Tessé, Adrienne Catherine de Noailles, Comtesse de (Madame de): letter from, 240-3; and Lafayette, 240, 241, 242, 504; TJ sends plants and seeds to, 240-3, 366; garden of, 241, 242; health of, 241, 242; and Noailles estate, 376 Tessé, René Mans, Comte de, 241, 242-3 Texas, 47, 339, 340n, 528n, 640n Tharp, John, 291n Tharp, William Blake, 290, 291n Thatcher, Samuel, 716, 724 theodolites, 541 Theodosius I, Emperor, 627 Thibaut, John, 387-8, 690, 711 Thomas, David, 716, 722, 726 Thomas, Joseph (laborer), 33 Thompson, Benjamin (Count Rumford), 637 Thompson, Elijah, 75n Thompson, Philip R., 718, 721, 725n, 726 Thompson, Thomas McKean, 402 Thompson, Thomas Weston, 351n Thomson, Charles, 112 Thornton, William: letter to, 184; TJ returns signed patents to, 184; dispute with Latrobe, 697n Thruston, Buckner: letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569 Tibbits, George, 716, 724 Tiebout, Cornelius, 495n Tiffin, Edward: letter from, 577-8; recommends sending missionaries among western Indians, 577-8
Tilghman, James, 348 Tillotson, Thomas, 172n timber: oak, 67; pine, 67, 520; mahogany, 290, 520; cherry, 412; flooring plank, 424-5; prices, 424-5 “Timothy Scrape” (pseudonym): letter from, 337-8; and calls for new state constitution in Conn., 337-8 Timpanari Viganò, Giuseppe: background of, 316-25, 499; introduced by Mazzei, 316-25; introduced by Appleton, 331; lost at sea, 332n, 500n tin: sheet, 342 Tingey, Thomas, 661 Tinkham, John, 26n tobacco: Madison’s, 115, 119; cargoes of, 419, 517-18n Tombeckbee Association, 110n Tombigbee River: settlements on, 12, 306, 487, 687-8; post road to, 184; descriptions of, 360 Tomlinson, Jabez H., 338n Tompkins, William, 416-17n Tönning, Germany, 515 torpedoes, 280, 376 Totten, Peter, 75 Toulmin, Harry, 170, 234, 306, 476, 485, 689, 690, 703, 712 Tour in Holland, in MDCCLXXXIV (Elkanah Watson), 171 Toussaint-Louverture, 288n Towns, John, 33 Townsend, Eben, Jr., 75n Townsend, I. & K. (New Haven, Conn.), 75n Townsend, Jeremiah, 75n Tracy, Uriah, 720 Traité de botanique et de matière médicale (Antoine Gouan), 614, 615 Traité de la divinité de nôtre seigneur Jesus-Christ (Jacques Abbadie), 304, 305n Traité des arbres et arbustes que l’on cultive en France en pleine terre (Henri Louis Duhamel du Monceau), 645 Transylvania Company, 569n Transylvania University, 143n Travels through Sweden, Finland, and Lapland, to the North Cape, in the Years 1798 and 1799 (Giuseppe Acerbi), 645 Travis, Champion, 196 Travis, Samuel: recommended, appointed mate of revenue cutter, 196, 228, 280, 284, 303, 712, 730, 731
791
INDEX Treasury, U.S. Department of the: appointment of customs collectors, 26-7, 154, 170, 179-80, 181, 201, 228; warrants drawn on, 27-8n; clerks in, 27n; messengers, 27n; surveyor general, 154; commissioners of loans, 161; draftsmen, 163, 201, 263; land office registers, receivers, 169-70; delinquent, irregular accounts with, 228, 524, 526, 546-7; comptroller’s office, 276n; duties on personal baggage, 659; annual reports on receipts and expenditures, 670-1; contingent fund, 686; letter from cited, 733. See also Gallatin, Albert; lighthouses; revenue cutters Tredwell, Samuel, 455-6 trees: dogwood, 240, 242; magnolia, 240, 242; oak, 240, 242; sassafras, 240, 242; tulip poplars, 240, 242; walnut, 240, 242 Trenton, battle of, 481n Trenton, N.J., 409n Trieste, 255n Trigg, Abram, 88, 718, 722 Trigg, John, 88 Tripoli: attacked by Preble’s squadron, x, li-lii, 354 (illus.), 497-8, 499, 500n; negotiations for release of U.S. prisoners, x, 175-8, 185n, 275n, 371-2, 422n, 423, 424n, 548; plan of town and harbor, li-lii, 354 (illus.); TJ wishes to chastise, 111; U.S. squadron against, 111, 177, 371, 421-2, 437n, 665, 673, 681; peace negotiations with, 175-8, 665, 681; relations with Sweden, 176; blockade of, 177; adjudication of prizes, 665; expense of war against, 677. See also Qaramanli, Yusuf, Pasha of Tripoli Trist, Elizabeth House: letters from, 325-6, 374-5; and death of H. B. Trist, viii-ix, 325-6, 374-5, 537, 613; recommends W. Brown, 326, 375; asked to forward items to TJ, 407 Trist, Hore Browse: death of, viii-ix, 303, 313, 325-6, 329, 330, 374-5, 511, 520-1, 532, 537, 555, 575, 613, 636n; TJ’s affection for, 537 Trist, Mary Brown, 520-1, 537, 613 Trondheim (Drontheim), Norway, 628n Trotter, George: letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569 Trotter, Samuel: letter from, 569; recommends aspirant for office, 569
“A True Republican” (pseudonym): letter from, 573-4; urges removal of James Simons, 573-4 Trumbull, John, xlvii, 659 Truxtun, Thomas: letter to, 477; letters from, 63-7, 268-70, 436-7; compares navy yards at Philadelphia and Baltimore, 63-7, 117; recommends E. Hoppe, 108n, 436-7; seeks appointment, 117-18; Commodore Thomas Truxtun’s Vindication, 268-70, 302, 341; defends conduct to TJ, 268-70, 302, 341; advises on war against Tripoli, 437n; thanked by TJ, 477 Tuckabatchee, 461n Tucker, Thomas Tudor, 172, 192, 266n Tufton (TJ’s estate), 616n Tunis: relations with U.S., x-xi, 111, 176-7; consul at, 77; ransom, release of Maria Anna Porcile, 133-6; cruisers from, 371n. See also Hammuda Bey (of Tunis) Tupper, Benjamin (New Orleans), 154, 155n, 330n Tupper, Benjamin, Jr. (Ohio), 154, 155n, 180 Turnbull, John (Miss. Terr.), 38n Turnbull, William, 37, 38n Turner, Edward, 169, 188, 476 Turner, Edward D., 339, 340n, 363-4n Turner, Mr., 482n turnips, 31 Turpin, Baron de, xlvii Turpin, Horatio: letter to cited, 731 Turpin, Mary Jefferson (Mrs. Thomas Turpin, TJ’s aunt), 208n Turpin, Philip (TJ’s cousin): letter from, 208; seeks appointment for nephew, 208 Twelfth Amendment: ratification of, 181, 215-16, 218n, 274-5, 279, 281; opposition to, 530-1, 533n; and divisions among Republicans in Pa., 548 Two Friends (schooner), 414 Twyman, George: letter from, 31; sends seeds, offers cat to TJ, 31 Tyler, Mr. (Short tenant), 416 Ugarte, José Joaquín, 339, 340n, 640n Underwood, Thomas, Jr., 686, 706 Union College (Schenectady, N.Y.), 183n, 294-5 Unitarians, 374n United Irishmen, Society of, 261
792
INDEX United States Foreign Relations with Naples, 111, 498; with Russia, 185n, 218n, 423-4, 654-5; with Haiti, 186n; with Sweden, 218n; with Ottoman Empire, 423-4. See also France: U.S. Relations with; Great Britain: U.S. Relations with; Spain: U.S. Relations with; Tripoli; Tunis Public Finance discharge of funded debt, 111, 670-1, 676-9, 683-4; sale of public lands, 642-3. See also Gallatin, Albert; Treasury, U.S. Department of the Society multiethnic population of, 10, 11; effects of European war on, 498-9; party spirit dividing America, 647 United States (U.S. frigate), 63, 66 United States Military Philosophical Society, 276n Unity (sloop), 492 Universal Gazette (Washington, D.C.), 125 Universal Geography Made Easy; or, A New Geographical Pocket Companion (Charles Smith), 573n Urquhart, David, 479, 480n Urquhart, Thomas: characterized, 20, 23, 479; recommended for appointment, 23; and Wilkinson, 23, 24n; candidate for appointment, 168, 170, 234, 307, 328, 350, 355, 479, 480n Ursuline Nuns of New Orleans: letter to, 78-9; property rights confirmed by TJ, 78-9, 102, 226 Vail, Aaron, 218n, 252 Vail, James, 218n Van Cortlandt, Philip, 715, 716, 721 Vander Burgh, Henry, 448 Vanderhorst, Arnoldus, 392 Vandyke, Thomas, 453-4, 658 Van Horne, Isaac: as reference, 159; dines with TJ, 715, 722; member of Eighth Congress, 717 Van Ness, John P., 246 Van Ness, William P.: Examination of the Various Charges, 206, 207n, 488 Van Rensselaer, Jeremiah, 171, 172n Van Rensselaer, Killian K., 715, 716, 724
Varnum, Joseph Bradley: rumored dissatisfaction with TJ’s administration, 531; member of Eighth Congress, 716; dines with TJ, 721, 726 Vaughan, Benjamin, 200 Vaughan, Dr. John, 232n Vélez-Málaga, Spain, 473n Venable, Abraham B., 221, 517n Venice, 317, 321, 322 Verbena aubletia, 14 Vermont: Woodstock, 550n Verplanck, Daniel C., 715, 716, 721 Viel, Étienne Bernard Alexandre, 35, 47-8 Vienna, Md.: collector at, 546-7 Vies et oeuvres des peintres les plus célèbres de toutes les écoles (Charles Paul Landon), 645 View of Commodore Preble’s Squadron, lii, 354 (illus.) View of the Political and Civil Situation of Louisiana, 705n Viganò, Giuseppa, 325n Villandry, Le Breton de, 186n, 198-9 Villar, Mr., 14 Villers, Charles François Dominique de: Philosophie de Kant, 645 Vincennes, 634, 667, 683 Vincennes (U.S. sloop), 88n Vine Hill Academy (N.C.), 174n Virgil, 374n, 645 Virginia: TJ avoids appointing Virginians to office, 77-8; navy appointments from, 78, 94; TJ describes as “more agricultural than Nautical,” 78; Mecklenburg Co., 123n; roads, 185; elections in, 221; Middlesex Co., 249n; Gloucester Co., 299n; courts, 449n; removal of condemned slaves, 623-5; free blacks in, 624; counterfeiting in, 637-9, 686, 705-6; South Quay collectorship, 690; and election of 1804, 708-9; King and Queen Co., 709n; New Point Comfort lighthouse, 733. See also Albemarle Co., Va.; Federalists; Hampton, Va.; Milton, Va.; Norfolk, Va.; Republicans; Richmond, Va. Virginia, University of, 143n Vistula River, 116, 117 Vixen (U.S. schooner), lii Voigt, Henry, 540 Volney, Constantin François Chasseboeuf: and Natural Bridge, xlvii; Tableau du climat, 202, 290, 291n, 414, 645; polygraph for, 660
793
INDEX Voyage dans la Basse et la Haute Égypte (Vivant Denon), 172 Vue de la colonie Espagnole du Mississippi, ou des provinces de Louisiane et Floride occidentale, en l’année 1802, par un observateur résident sur les lieux (Pierre Louis Berquin-Duvallon), 645 Wabash River, 605, 642, 667, 683 Waddell, James, 605 Wadsworth, Henry, 499, 500n Wadsworth, Peleg, 716, 723 Waggaman, Henry, 547n Wagner, Jacob: letters to, 236-7, 284, 487-8; letters from, 303, 417, 487; and commission, letter of credence for John Armstrong, 216; prepares commissions, 224, 233, 236-7, 279, 281, 284, 303, 476n; communications forwarded to, by, 356, 362, 364, 466; forwards letters for TJ, 417; dispute with Merry, 423, 424n; and irregularities in Chambers’s recess commission, 487-8; and duties on W. Pinkney’s personal baggage, 659 Walker, John, 299 Wallabout Bay, 496, 497n, 533 Wallace, John, 456 Walsh, Patrick, 35n Walton, Matthew, 719, 723, 725n Walton, William, Jr., 549-50n Wanscher, Marten (Martin): payments to, 245, 273, 274n, 333, 334; letters from cited, 245n, 731, 732 War, U.S. Department of: use of military volunteers, ix, 629, 630n, 663, 668, 674, 675n; clerks, 28n, 236n; messengers, 28n; superintendent of military stores, 200-1, 370-1, 481-2, 589-90, 598, 622-3; private market preferred for supplies, 390; and army surgeons engaging in private practice, 453, 658; discharge of soldiers, 480; arsenals, armories, 481n, 729; engineers, 587-8; regiments of artillery, 692; regiments of infantry, 692; medical department, 692-3; letter to cited, 731. See also Dearborn, Henry: Military Affairs; Indians: U.S. Indian Affairs; West Point, N.Y. Wardlaw, William, 616 Warner, John, 230, 232-3n
Warren, James, Jr., 26n Warsaw, 116, 117 Washington, Bushrod, 213n Washington, D.C.: Osage delegation visits, xlix, 104n; public buildings, 27n, 164-6, 483-4, 696-7; streets and roads in, 28-30, 187, 467, 484; hotels, boardinghouses, 29, 88; theaters, 29; Tiber Creek, 29-30, 187, 245, 540, 541; free blacks in, 33, 141n; labor riot in, 33, 71-2, 92, 93; Washington Navy Yard, 34, 36, 104n, 117-18, 127, 245-6, 474n, 674, 676; Irish in, 71-2; President’s Square, 91; alterations to plan of, 91-3; reputation as unhealthy, 94, 408, 495; justices of the peace, 131, 193, 245-6, 689, 702; postal service, 157, 161; establishment of post road to New Orleans from, 184, 334-5, 406n, 459-61; militia, 246; military storekeeper, 276n; construction of gunboats at, 395; Pennsylvania Ave., 467; meridian line at, 539-42; mall, 540; stage lines to, 695. See also Capitol, U.S.; District of Columbia; President’s House Washington, George: image on peace medals, xlviii; late-term appointments by, 3; and S. Davidson’s claim, 91-2; receives donkey from king of Spain, 98n; Ceracchi’s bust of, 114, 115n; funeral, 232; portraits of, 247n; and D. Baldwin, 406-7; thwarts hereditary government, 565 Washington, Martha Dandridge Custis, l, 247n Washington, Miss. Terr., 555 Washington County, Miss. Terr.: memorial from, 687-8; recommends R. H. Gilmer for appointment, 687-8 Washington Federalist, 104n, 696-7 Wasp (U.S. sloop), 34n, 127 watchmakers, 553n Waters, Thomas W.: letter from, 284-6; sends observations on upper Louisiana, seeks appointment, 284-6; identified, 286n Watkins, John (Orleans Terr.): candidate for appointment, 168, 234, 238, 305, 309; health of, 217n; appointed to legislative council, 307, 328, 350, 355, 652-3, 712; declines surgeon’s appointment, 326; recommends aspirants for office, 330n
794
INDEX Watson, Caroline, 495 Watson, Elkanah: letter from, 171-2; Tour in Holland, 171; travels in U.S., Europe, 171; and S. Lynch, 171-2 Watson, Joshua Rowley, l-li Watson, William (Mass.), 26n Watt, James, 44 weather: ice, 66; heat, 72, 217n, 403; rain, 72, 200, 336, 430; impact on crops, 116-17; warm winter, cold spring in Europe, 116-17; gales, 275n; hurricanes, 410; storms, 459-60; frost, 495 Weehawken, N.J., l-li Weems, Nathaniel T., 661, 704 Weinwich, Nicolai (Niels) Henrich: letter from, 627-8; sends Roman coins to TJ, 627-8; identified, 628n “Welch” (Walsh?; New Orleans): letter from cited, 731 Wells, William H., 720 West, Benjamin F., 411 West, Cato: letter to, 105-6; letter from, 212; forwards letter for TJ, 105-6, 212, 250; and Green-West faction, 188; and Kemper riot, 608n; letter from cited, 732 West Indies: arming of merchant vessels trading in, x, 25, 591-5; Danish West Indies, 75-6n; French privateers in, 85-6, 127, 354, 663-4, 669, 671; scarcity, expense of provisions in, 190-1; agents to, 364; and yellow fever, 404. See also Cuba; Haiti (Saint-Domingue); Jamaica West Point, N.Y.: military academy at, 87, 587n, 641 Wharton, Franklin, 661 Wharton, Samuel, 102, 128 wharves, 65 wheat, 200 Wheaton, Joseph: letter from cited, 213n, 731 Wheaton, Seth, 429 whips, riding: manufacture of, 42 White, Levi, 131n, 246 White, Samuel, 720, 724 White, Bishop William, 392 White Hair (Cheveux Blancs, Pawhuska, Osage leader): letters to, 72, 98-101; receives peace medal, xlviii, xlix; description of, xlix; portrait of, xlix, 354 (illus.); leads Osage delegation to Washington, 72, 103, 104n,
276n; and Chouteaus, 72n; identified, 72n; speeches by, 73-4, 95, 101; TJ encourages friendly relations, trade with, 98-101; satisfied with TJ’s address, 101; and divisions among the Osages, 656-7 Whitehill, John, 717, 723 Whitney, Thomas: letter to, 60-1; payment to, 60-1 Whittemore, Samuel (Conn.), 346n Whyte, Matthew, 641 Wichelhausen, Frederick Jacob, 219n, 252 Wigginton, S. B., 255n, 281 wigs, xlix Wilcocks, Judge, 232 Wilcocks, Richard H., 75n Wilkes, John, 373 Wilkinson, Fort, 461n Wilkinson, James: letters from, 14, 49-50, 709-10; sends character sketches of Orleans residents, vii, 14-24, 170n, 263; accused of supporting self-government for Louisiana, 8; and T. Urquhart, 23, 24n; and R. Dow, 24n; recommends aspirants for office, 26; criticizes Boré, 49-50; and speculation in W. Fla. lands, 313n; Spanish payments to, 555; forwards writings on gunboats, 709-10; letter from cited, 731 Wilkinson, James B., 74n William and Mary, College of, 195n, 219 Williamos (Williasmos, Willyamoz), Charles, 553n Williams, George, 348n Williams, Lemuel, 716, 724 Williams, Marmaduke, 718, 722 Williams, Mr. (Philadelphia), 333 Williams, Philip, 189-90 Williams, Robert: letter from, 260-1; candidate for appointment, vii, 106, 168, 170, 233, 263, 279, 328, 350; travels to Washington, 188n; returns to Miss. Terr., 260; forwards letter to TJ, 260-1; identified, 261n Willing, Thomas, 232, 233n, 302 Willis, Nathan, 26n Willis, William, 422n Wilmington, Del.: collector at, 509, 543-4, 585, 656, 700; conveyancers, 700; notaries public, 700, 701n; water department, 701n
795
INDEX Wilmington, N.C., 367 Wilson, Alexander (Va. congressman), 718, 722 Wilson, Archibald, Jr., 255n, 281 Wilson, Philip, 186n Wilson, William (army officer), 534-5 Winckelblech, Christophe: letter from, 270-2; seeks land in Louisiana for Swiss immigrants, 270-2, 325; identified, 272n wine: champagne, 37, 69-70, 211, 212, 698; ordered by TJ, 37, 68, 112, 114-15, 115-16, 119, 156, 397, 421, 422-3n, 514-15, 549, 612, 707, 729; transportation of, 37, 68; breakage, 37n, 69-70, 211, 212; prices, 37n, 68, 383, 397, 514-15, 549, 612; Cahuzac, 58-9, 117, 646, 707; Dufour’s vineyards, 63; Bordeaux, 68, 698; Hermitage (white), 68, 156, 421, 422-3n; Rhine, 68; Aleatico, 112, 114; bottling of, 112, 114, 156; Chianti, 112, 114; Montepulciano, 112, 114; Pomino, 112, 114; Verdea, 112, 114; Oeiras, 115, 492; Termo, 115-16, 493; pajarete, 119, 397; sherry, 119, 162, 211, 212, 729; Hermitage (red), 156n; Château Margaux, 382, 383; RausanMargaux (Rozan-Margau), 382, 383; sauterne, 382, 383; duties on, 383, 612; packing, shipping costs, 383; Bucelas, 493; Hungarian, 514-15, 549, 612, 691; Tokay, 514-15; claret, 729 Wing, Matthew: letter from, 545; seeks army appointment, 545 Winget, Captain, 525 Winn, Richard, 718, 723 Winston, Isaac, 185, 424 Winston, Joseph, 718, 722, 726 Winter & Harman (New Orleans), 366n Winter’s Day (Mary Robinson), 495 Wirt, Rachel: letter from cited, 731 Wise, Peter, Jr., 225 Wistar, Caspar, 293 Woddrop, John, 266n Womack, Jesse, 687 women: pregnancy, childbirth, 27, 519, 623n; widows, widowhood, 39, 88n, 231, 248-9, 401, 574, 577-8n, 618; keep boardinghouses, 88; divorce, 88n; and illegitimate children, 154, 155n; mistresses, 202n
Wood, William (minister), 577 Woods, Benjamin, 695n Worcester, Mass., 530 Worthington, Thomas: letters from, 414, 546; recommends aspirants for office, 414, 546; member of Eighth Congress, 719; dines with TJ, 721, 726 Wright, Robert: introduces Rafinesque, 143n; recommends aspirants for office, 547n; member of Eighth Congress, 719; dines with TJ, 722 Württemberg, Electorate of, 63 Wykoff, William, Jr.: recommended for appointment, 239, 309; characterized, 309 Wykoff, William, Sr.: characterized, 20, 23, 309; candidate for appointment, 169, 234, 305, 307, 328, 350, 355, 652-3, 712; recommended for appointment, 239, 309 Wylliesburg, Va., 188 Wynns, Thomas, 718, 722 Wythe, George, 112 Yale University, 552n Yard, James: letter from, 691; forwards bill of lading, 691; identified, 691n Yazoo Companies, 531, 533n Yazoo River, 570 Yeatman, Griffin, 577n Yeats, Alexander, 265-7 yellow fever: in New Orleans, viii-ix, 53-4, 303-4, 311, 325-6, 329, 359, 375, 388, 411, 479, 520, 587, 640; prevention of, 53, 311, 404; treatment of, 55-6, 262-3, 287, 288; in Alexandria, Va., 235; publications on, 235, 262-3; transmission of, 235, 304, 359, 404-5; on Haiti, 287, 288; in Baltimore, 289n; in Spain, 397, 511, 512, 513; in Philadelphia, 404; in W. Indies, 404; in Cadiz, 511, 512, 513; at Gibraltar, 512, 513-14; impact of cold weather on, 587; susceptibility of new arrivals to, 587 York, Pa.: postal service to, 186n, 335, 384-7 York Haven, Pa., 159n Yorktown, battle of, 557 Young, Moses, 77 Young, Samuel, 239, 309, 313n
796
INDEX Youth’s News Paper (New York), 573n Yznardi, Joseph, Sr.: letters to, 119, 126; letters from, 79-80, 396-7, 511-14; sends news of negotiations with Spain, 79-80; payments to, 119, 123, 126, 222, 396; and wine for TJ, 119, 397; as consul at Cadiz, 186n; offers diplomatic services, 396-7, 512, 514; calls for removal of, 468; health of, 511,
513; defends conduct as consul, 511-14; reports on yellow fever outbreak, 512, 513-14 Zane, Isaac (Ohio): letter from, 588-9; and missionaries among Indians, 577n, 588-9; identified, 588-9n Zeigler, David, 577n
797
A comprehensive index of Volumes 1-20 of the First Series has been issued as Volume 21. Each subsequent volume has its own index, as does each volume or set of volumes in the Second Series.
The Papers of Thomas Jefferson are composed in Monticello, a font based on the “Pica No. 1” created in the early 1800s by Binny & Ronaldson, the first successful typefounding company in America. The face is considered historically appropriate for The Papers of Thomas Jefferson because it was used extensively in American printing during the last quartercentury of Jefferson’s life, and because Jefferson himself expressed cordial approval of Binny & Ronaldson types. It was revived and rechristened Monticello in the late 1940s by the Mergenthaler Linotype Company, under the direction of C. H. Griffith and in close consultation with P. J. Conkwright, specifically for the publication of the Jefferson Papers. The font suffered some losses in its first translation to digital format in the 1980s to accommodate computerized typesetting. Matthew Carter’s reinterpretation in 2002 restores the spirit and style of Binny & Ronaldson’s original design of two centuries earlier. ✧