To Thomas Jefferson from John Page, 12 September 1803
From John Page
Richmond Sepr. 12th. 1803
My dear Sir
Having this Moment heard that Mr. Harvey intends to set out tomorrow morning to Monticello,1 I sent to request he would call on me & take charge of a Letter to you. I thought he would be a proper Conveyance of the Letter which you had permitted me to copy. I now inclose it with thanks for this fresh proof of your friendship, & for your Confidence in me. Mrs. Page joins in presenting our Compliments & best Wishes to you & your charming Family
I am with the highest respect & Esteem your most obedient Servt.
John Page
P.S.
As Mr. Harvey did not call for this Letter I have taken out yours to Dr. Rush & will keep it for a safer Conveyance than a Post. I have been so engaged ever since my return here that I can only add that I am
sincerely yours.
J.P.
RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 16 Sep. and so recorded in SJL.
mr. harvey: possibly TJ’s secretary Lewis Harvie.
Likely during Page’s recent visit to Monticello, TJ shared his letter of 21 Apr. to Benjamin rush and probably his comparative view of the doctrines of Jesus that the letter enclosed (see TJ to James Madison, 29 Aug.).
1. MS: “Montiello.”