Thomas Jefferson Papers

To Thomas Jefferson from Benjamin H. Latrobe, 4 April 1803

From Benjamin H. Latrobe

[4 Apr. 1803]

Dear Sir,

I arrived here about a fortnight ago, and have been so unwell since then, as not to be quite so forward in my report upon the state of the Capitol, and the necessary drawings as I could have wished. On this account, and because I believed that on your first arrival your time would be taking up by more important objects,—I have not yet waited upon you. Late this evening however, I will, with your permission, transmit to you my report, & some drawings, and if convenient, I will attend you at as early an hour as you may appoint tomorrow morning. Perhaps you may then have had time to read and consider my report.

When I left Philadelphia, Mrs. Latrobe was exceedingly unwell, and as she is in a situation to expect daily an increase of her family,—I am naturally anxious to return home as soon as possible,—& you would add to the obligations I owe to you,—if you could pay an early attention to the objects you have pleased to submit to me, so as to decide on what shall be done. I have already so prepared every thing, that the prelimary work may commence immediately & go on vigorously during my absence.—

I am with true respect Yrs. faithfully

B H Latrobe

RC (DLC); undated; endorsed by TJ as received 4 Apr. and so recorded in SJL.

increase of her family: the Latrobes’ son, John Hazlehurst Boneval Latrobe, was born on 4 May (Latrobe, Correspondence description begins John C. Van Horne and Lee W. Formwalt, eds., The Correspondence and Miscellaneous Papers of Benjamin Henry Latrobe, New Haven, 1984–88, 3 vols. description ends , 1:289n).

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