1William Barraclough to Thomas Jefferson, 1 May 1820 (Jefferson Papers)
As I am an obscure stranger and without a friend to recommend or introduce me to your Excellency’s notice, I must commence by begging pardon for intruding myself; a freedom to which I was encouraged by that liberality of sentiment which has appeared so conspicuous in your public Administration & in your justly esteemed writings. Enclosed is a small work in poetry which I have lately...