To Thomas Jefferson from Henry Lee, 16 May 1793
From Henry Lee
Richmond May 16th. 93
Dear sir
The enclosed resolution of the G. assembly I very much wish to see fitly and ingeniously executed and feel a thorough sterility of genius on the subject.
Nor have I been able to obtain aid here.
Thus circumstanced I resort to your goodness and pray you will be pleased to favor me with a plan. The execution can be effected in this city. I have the honor to be Sr with every sentiment of the highest respect Your ob: st.
henry lee
RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 23 May 1793 and so recorded in SJL.
The text TJ received of the Virginia General Assembly’s Resolution of 17 Dec. 1792 instructing the governor to have new ceremonial maces made for the Senate and the House of Delegates has not been found, but the original motion had declared that it was “inconsistent with the principles of a republican government, that any badge or appendage of kingly pomp should remain therein” ( Oct.-Dec. 1792, p. 178, 184, 194).