Being to leave this for Monticello tomorrow I have to express to you my earnest request that so many workmen may be employed on both wings of the Capitol as to have them ready for the Upholsterers to go into by the last day of September, and the whole in readiness for Congress before their meeting. I shall be here the 5th. of October if nothing calls me sooner.

I must further request that the smoothing & compleatly finishing the grounds round the President’s house, the manuring sowing & planting that ground, & the finishing the offices at each end, may have a preference on the fund appropriated for these purposes, & that all it’s deficiency may be thrown on the wall; it being of little consequence as it cannot be finished, whether a little more or less of it be done. I salute you with esteem & respect