1To Thomas Jefferson from John Wayles Eppes, 22 May 1786 (Jefferson Papers)
The difficulty which I allways feel in begining a correspondence has hitherto debared me from the satisfaction of writing to you but I am determined to remain silent no longer, as I am certain that you will pardon all deficiencies which I may be guilty of. It would indeed be almost useless to write unless I had something to mention [in p]articular besides enquireing after your health, of which...