John Dortic to Thomas Jefferson, 7 November 1812
From John Dortic
Norfolk November 7th 1812
Sir
Travelling for Sometime, I Expected I Should pass through your place, now, being compelled to go back to New York, I must explain you the reason Why you did not receive the Fontainebleau’s Chasselas I had announced to you.
I received two bundles of that vine by the brig Catharine Ray Whose Sailing was retarded till the 2d of may and besides She had 86 days passage. So that, when those vines came to my hand they were as dry as bones. I asked my friends for others & I hope to get them in good Season: I Sincerely wish it.
| John Dortic |
| New York |
RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr”; endorsed by TJ as received 17 Dec. 1812 and so recorded in SJL.
The brig catharine ray sailed from La Rochelle, France, on 3 May 1812 and arrived in New York on 22 July (Boston Repertory & General Advertiser, 28 July 1812).