III. Jefferson’s Memorandum, 19 November 1801
III. Jefferson’s Memorandum
As trustee for the Seneca Indians it appears to me just that the charge of mr Meredith be allowed & be deducted from the dividends. at the same time, considering their want of familiarity with these subjects, and the natural jealousy of ignorance, it seems desireable that the US. should in future have their business transacted for them clear of expence, so that they may recieve their dividends without defalcation.
Th: Jefferson
Nov. 19. 1801.
MS (DLC); entirely in TJ’s hand; written on verso of Document I alongside Gallatin’s note.
On 2 Mch. 1802, Dearborn wrote to Meredith: “Not being able to procure that knowledge which is considered necessary relative to the Stock in the Bank of the United States, belonging to the Seneca Tribe of Indians, I request that you would give me all the information, your knowledge of the Subject will enable you to do.” Meredith replied from Philadelphia on 5 Mch., but that letter has not been found (Dearborn to Meredith, 2 Mch. 1802, Lb in DNA: RG 107, MLS; Meredith to Dearborn, 5 Mch. 1802 received 9 Mch., recorded in DNA: RG 107, RLRMS).