Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) to James Madison
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01198 Author/Creator: Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) Place Written: Monticello, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 23 July 1817 Pagination: 1 p. 24 x 21 cm with autograph address leaf + addr + docket Order a Copy
Regarding the establishment of the University of Virginia, Jefferson writes to set a meeting for handling donations to "our subscription paper" and discusses the details of arranging a meeting. Among those also contacted for the meeting were Joseph C. Cabell, General John H. Cocke, and a Mr. Watson.
Monticello July 23.17.
Dear Sir
The promptitude & success of our subscription paper, now amounting to upwards of 20, 000 D. with a prospect much beyond that renders the decision immediately necessary of some important questions which I had thought might have laid over to our periodical meeting the last of September. Having an opportunity of writing to Genl. Cocke I invited him to join me in a visit to you on Friday the 25th. I recd his answer last night, that he would do so and would try to bring Mr. Cabell with him. Last night also [struck: I] an opportunity was offered me of sending a letter to Mr. Watson. I do so; and he probably will be with you also. Thus the [strike out] visit I had promised for myself singly to you on my return, is suddenly manufactured into a meeting of our visitors at Montpelier, te inconsulto. I do not know whether [strike out] Mr. Cabell & Mr. Watson will certainly come, but Genl. Cocke & myself will be certainly with you on Friday, to dinner if we can get there by half after two; if not, we will dine at Gordon's & be with you afterwards, therefore do not wait a moment for us. The illness of our principal driver will disappoint Mrs. Randolph in the participation in the visit which she had much at heart. Affectionate esteem & respect to Mrs. Madison & yourself.
Th: Jefferson
Mr. Madison
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