A person of the name of Brooks—an artist, who is exercising his Profession at Charlottesville and has permission to teach the Students the art of painting in the University, is very desirous of being permitted to take a copy of the portrait of Mr Jefferson by Stuart which, he has heard, you possess. He has requested of me to learn from you whether it would be agreeable to you for him to take such Copy & to get rid of his Importunity I have consented to write. I beg of you to understand that it is on his account not, in any way, on mine that the subject is proposed to you. Consequently, I hope you will have no hesitation in saying should his Proposition be inconvenient; and I will place the matter on its right footing with him.

I trust this Weather does not add to your Rheumatism. We are suffering much here from Colds.

Mrs Dunglison unites with me in kindest regards to Mrs Madison. Have the goodness to believe me, dear Sir, with the most sincere respect. &c &c Yours