Thomas Jefferson Papers

To Thomas Jefferson from James Wood, 4 February 1799

From James Wood

Richmond 4th. February 1799.

Sir.

I have had the honor of your Letter of the 24th. Ultimo with the inclosure, [no]tifying [the] death [of] Mr. Tazewell. I delayed answering your letter until this time, in expectation that a temporary Appointment wou’d be made by the Executive—I am now inclined to think that none will take place, before a permanent One is made by the Legislature; the Board were equally divided as to two Gentlemen who were Nominated, and my Own Opinion being that I had no power to give a Credential to either, under the Law prescribing the form to be Observed where a temporary Appointment shou’d be made by the Executive. I have the honor to be with due Consideration.

Sir Yr. Mo. Obt. Servt.

James Wood.

RC (DNA: RG 46, Senate Records, 5th Cong., 3d sess.); damaged along fold; addressed: “The Honble. Thomas Jefferson Esqr. Vice President of the United States Philadelphia”; franked; postmarked 5 Feb. 1799; endorsed by Senate clerk.

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