I lamented extremely that my time, did not allow me to stay longer with the best of friends, on my late visit to Monticello. I had intended to leave home the last of June, instead of July, but was unfortunately prevented by an attack of Lumbago, which confined me to my house for a month nearly. This delay, made the period of my departure approach near the commencement of our Court of Chancery which began on the 19th of august, and compelled me, most reluctantly to leave so soon1 your hospitable mansion. For as I am dependent on my profession for my daily bread I am necessarily obliged to devote my attention to it. If health permits I hope next summer to repeat my visit and indeed if it were in my power, I would make an annual pilgrimage to Monticello, to visit my second father.

I have spoken to Mr Alrich about your wool-carding machine & he says he will take great pleasure in putting it in complete order, whenever you may send it on. He is a very ingenious man, & has been a decided friend in gloomy times[.] He is among the most intelligent of our numerous Republican Quakers, in this place.

The Maldonado Pumpkin seed shall be selected from some of the best melons & shall be sent as soon as they are fit; and indeed any thing of the kind in my power. Did you ever see any of the Paraguay Tea of S. America? Shall I send you a sample, by mail, as your frank will allow me to do it?

Let me recommend to you for employment, as a carpenter at your University, Mr Samuel Askew, of this place. He is a most excellent workman & has long been a master carpenter here. He has always done my work & all the public buildings at this place. In these dull times he is willing to go to Virginia & to work as low as one dollar & fifty cents per day, in hopes that he will soon recommend himself to something better. In addition to this, he has been politically faithful in the worst of times. I am sure you would be pleased with him, & I should be much gratified if he could be usefully employed.

Remember me particularly to Mr & Ms Randolph & all your family.

With every sentiment of respect gratitude & affection I remain Dr Sir