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Monroe, James (1758-1831) to Charles Everett

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04374 Author/Creator: Monroe, James (1758-1831) Place Written: Highland, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 31 October 1824 Pagination: 1 p. : address : docket ; 24.7 x 19.9 cm. Order a Copy

Written by Monroe at the end of his presidency to Everett, his family physician and neighbor in Virginia. References Everett's previous letter and says he remained behind an extra day in the hope of seeing him. Relates that his duties are forcing him to go back to Washington "immediately & reluctantly." Laments not being able to see Lafayette before his sudden departure to the capital. Lafayette was on his farewell tour through America in 1824-1825. He was previously entertained by Monroe in September 1824, but Monroe expresses disappointment to Everett at not being able to attend an informal dinner in Virginia with him. Monroe later saw Lafayette in the Capital in December 1824, and was able to entertain him and President John Quincy Adams at Oak Hill in August 1825. Says if he stays now he will lose a week of work, which would be injurious to the public and him. Hopes to see Everett soon. Back of the letter is damaged and torn.

Highland, Octr. 31. 1824.
Dear Sir

I have recd. your letter, & remained here yesterday in the hope of seeing you. My duties at Washington call us back immediately & reluctantly. I was very anxious to see Genl. La Fayette here, but find that he can not be expected here till thursday, & that the dinner will not be given him till the next, or some days after. If I staid I should lose a week, which at this time, might be very injurious to the public, as well as to myself. I beg you to suggest this to him. It will afford me great pleasure to see you whenever you can join us, being very sincerely Dear Sir Yours-
James Monroe

[address leaf]
Dr. Charles Everett
Everettesville -

[docket]
James Monroe
Letter

Monroe, James, 1758-1831
Everett, Charles, -1848
Adams, John Quincy, 1767-1848

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