To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Patterson, 6 June 1807
Philada. June 6th. 1807
Sir
Permit me to solicit your acceptance of another morsel of nut-shell philosophy, in the form of a “collegiate examination”.
I have aimed at nothing more than a systematic view of the subject, in as small a compass as was consistent with any degree of perspecuity; believing that something of this kind might not be a useless accompaniment to the larger treatises which are commonly put into the hands of students; and might even aid the teacher himself in conducting the very necessary business of frequent examinations.
I have the honour to be with sentiments of the highest esteem your obedient Servant
R. Patterson
DLC: Papers of Thomas Jefferson.