Thomas Jefferson Papers

From Thomas Jefferson to George Washington, 11 December 1791

To George Washington

Philadelphia Dec. 11. 1791.

Dear Sir

I have given you the trouble of more reading on the subject of Major Lenfant’s letter, than you perhaps intended. I have done it from an apprehension that your mind might not be thoroughly satisfied whether he was not equally justifiable in the demolition of Mr. Carrol’s house, as in the demolition of trees and other obstacles, which he urges in his own justification. The truth is that without orders he was justifiable in neither: and he certainly never had orders to pull down houses.—I am with the most perfect respect & attachment Sir Your most obedt. & most humble servt,

Th: Jefferson

PrC (DLC); at foot of text: “The President of the U.S.”; entry in SJPL under 11 Dec. 1791 reads: “[Th:J. to G.W.] Letter on [L’Enfant’s letter].” See note to enclosure.

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