Since the lamented death of the venerable Mr Jefferson, with whom I anticipated, once more to have an interview, I have been engaged, by direction of the Faculty of the University, in opening the Books, imported by me, for the Library. They were found to be in good order, & with few exceptions, agreeing with the Invoices, copies of which are in possession of Mr J’s Executors, or heirs. I presume you will be in possession of the original Catalogue of the Books, the contract, & all the correspondence relating to this business. The amount furnished for the purchase of Books, was altogether inadequate to the accomplishment of the Catalogue made out; therefore many Books are omitted, & especially those, the most expensive, and many more, which could not be procured. I had positive instructions from Mr. J not to exceed the Sum of 18,000 dollars, & have been studious not to exceed my instructions. The Books already received, & those on the way, together with the commission, will amount nearly to the sum appropriated. In some cases, there will probably be found duplicates, which may be handed over to my agent Mr Jones—otherwise, I shall expect that none will be returned, as a discretionary power was given, in regard to editions. I have endeavored to answer the just expectations of my employers, & am confident, that upon a candid examination of the Invoices & prices, it will be found that the Books furnished, are upon the most advantageous terms. The commission which I finally accepted was too small to indemnify me; but it was agreed to, in consideration of an establishment at Charlottesville in the sale of Books, and the future supplies of the Library—any future orders for this object, shall receive prompt attention from your obedt. Servant,