Horatio G. Spafford to Thomas Jefferson, 22 March 1814
From Horatio G. Spafford
Albany, 3 Mo. 22, 1814.
Esteemed Friend—
Highly as I appreciate the favor of thy friendly regards, I can but feel mortified at the length of time that has elapsed Since my last, & often admire at the cause. Sometimes I fear that the latitude allowed to my remarks, has given displeasure; then that, possibly, I asked too much, & I know that it is painful to deny some gratification. If, in any case, I have offended, pray have the goodness to excuse it. I often regret the warmth of my feelings, or rather the want of prudence. But—I never was formed for any policy of design; & at best can never be more than a zealous drudge. It appears, too, that I had formed too high an estimate of my own merits & talents, & I acquiesce in the wisdom of official neglect.
I hope my Gazetteer has duly reached thee, & that it affords thee some information of this section of the Union, which must be a pleasure. I hope, too, that it meets, in some degree, thy approbation. Most devoutly do I wish thee a long continuance of life, health, & happiness in time & eternity. With much esteem & respect, thy friend,
Horatio Gates Spafford.
RC (MHi); at foot of text: “T. Jefferson, Esq.”; endorsed by TJ as received 2 Apr. 1814 and so recorded in SJL.
Index Entries
- A Gazetteer of the State of New-York (H. G. Spafford) search
- books; on New York search
- Jefferson, Thomas; Books & Library; works sent to search
- New York (state); works on search
- Spafford, Horatio Gates; A Gazetteer of the State of New-York search
- Spafford, Horatio Gates; apologizes to TJ search
- Spafford, Horatio Gates; letters from search