Monroe, James (1758-1831) to Landon Carter
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00124 Author/Creator: Monroe, James (1758-1831) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 17 June 1811 Pagination: 2 p. : address : free frank ; 24.7 x 20.2 cm. Order a Copy
Monroe, Secretary of State, replies to a letter and carriage model he recently received from Carter. Informs Carter that he delivered these items to the patent office immediately. Monroe had become Secretary of State just; two months earlier.
Washington June. 17. 1811.
Dear Sir
As soon as I recd your letter with yr. model of a carriage constructed on a new plan to avoid overtilting, I deposited it in the patent office. It is not usual for me to do more. The clerk in that office does everything else. I intended when I obtained a moment of leisure, to write you as a friend & to acknowledge your very kind communication which gave me much pleasure, as I knew it breathed sentiments which came from your heart. You have since written me a rather scolding letter- but I forgive you, as I am satisfied you will me on reflection. The truth is I have much to do here, in business the most urgent, so that I hardly ever have a moment for my friends. Many I know I neglect, but I rely on their indulgence, and their knowledge of me. On your plan I can say nothing at this time, having not examined it with sufficient attention to judge of it. Indeed the patent office is a mile or nearly it from me and placing it there made it difficult for me to have access to it but I will look into it and inform you hereafter.
I shall be happy to see you here [2] and always to give you proof that I have the feelings towards which I had 30 years ago.
Sincerely I am your friend & sevt
Jas Monroe
[address leaf:]Department of State Jas Monroe/Landon Carter Esquire/Cleve- near K. George/ court house -/Virginia
[address leaf side:]Correspondence bundle
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