11Thomas Ritchie to Thomas Jefferson, 27 March 1816 (Jefferson Papers)
I have been apprehensive that I could not undertake the work you propose. The Curtailments of Bank, and the general severity of the times, almost forbid the idea of vesting money in any fund, the returns from which are not instantaneous. I am disposed, however, to believe that M. Tracy ’s Treatise will sell —and I have very little doubt of it if you will give it the Sanction of your name, and...
12To Thomas Jefferson from Thomas Ritchie, 29 October 1823 (Jefferson Papers)
The last Legislature passed a law, directing certain officers of the Government to lay upon their table on the first day of their Session the Annual Reports of such offices. Among these, were the Reports of the University. The declared object of the Law, as expressed in its Preamble, was to expedite the Proceedings of the Legislature.—As it would contribute very little to the dispatch of the...
13Thomas Ritchie to Thomas Jefferson, 9 August 1814 (Jefferson Papers)
In ransacking some Papers, which I had laid by, I lit upon the enclosed Paper, which you were so kind as to transmit to me, some time last year. I am sorry I have detained it so long. However I flatter myself that this Sin of Omission is not so great as to cut me off from the Grace of similar favours. Most Respectfully, RC ( MHi ); dateline at foot of text; endorsed by TJ as received 16 Aug....
14To James Madison from Thomas Ritchie, 16 December 1808 (Madison Papers)
An Artist in this City has invented a little Machine, which he denominates "the Ladies’ Portable Spinning Machine", for which he wishes to obtain a Patent. I have turned to the Act of Congress of 1793, on this Subject, but as some material changes may have subsequently taken place, I must solicit your assistance & information. The 1st. Sect. of the Act of ’93 requires a petition to be...
15To James Madison from Thomas Ritchie, 8 September 1821 (Madison Papers)
I know not whether I can take the liberty of writing you on the subject of this letter; but I have had so many proofs of your goodness towards me, that I am tempted to address you. Whatever be your reply, I pledge myself not to abuse your confidence. If you wish me not to speak of it, I pledge myself not to do so. I have long understood—and within the last 12 months from a mutual friend—that...
16To James Madison from Thomas Ritchie, 10 December 1825 (Madison Papers)
Do not be surprised at receiving this Letter. I have been frequently tempted to appeal to your judgment, and ask your Advice. Not a dark Cloud has come over the public horizon, but I have turned towards you as a ⟨sort?⟩ of last resource. My profound reverence for you as a Politician, and my unfeigned regard for you as a man, have impelled my thoughts in that direction: but to this moment I...
17To James Madison from Thomas Ritchie, 7 August 1822 (Madison Papers)
My own indisposition, and the melancholy succession of calamities which has befallen the family of Dr. Foushee, have prevented my earlier acknowledgment of your respected favor. My wish too to oblige an interesting stranger would have prompted me to attend sooner to his application, if these circumstances had not intervened. It is my candid opinion, that Mr. Spafford’s Gazetteer for Virginia...