To James Madison from Thomas Jefferson, 8 March 1819
From Thomas Jefferson
Monticello Mar. 8. 19.
Dear Sir
I now return you the letter from mr. Watson1 whom I met with on the road as mentioned in mine of the 3d. In consequence of the doubts discovered on the subject of Cooper, I wrote to mr. Cabell, to Correa, and to Cooper himself, and inclose you copies of my letters for perusal that you may see on what ground I place the matter with each.2 To Cooper I barely hold up the possibility of new views from a new majority, altho’ I do not apprehend any change. I have no doubt that Cabell will acquiesce. I must pray you to return me his letter, and the copies of mine now inclosed & salute you affectionately & respectfully
Th: Jefferson
RC (DLC); FC (DLC: Jefferson Papers). RC docketed by JM.
2. For Jefferson to Joseph C. Cabell, 1 Mar. 1819, see Jefferson to JM, 3 Mar. 1819, and n. 2. To José Corrèa de Serra, Jefferson wrote on 2 Mar. 1819, that he was “mortified to find” amongst the board of visitors opposition to hiring Thomas Cooper because of his reputation for intemperance. Jefferson “unhesitatingly repelled the imputation,” “Mr. Madison was equally urgent as” Jefferson, but they “found it prudent to let the matter lie” until the next meeting of the board (DLC: Jefferson Papers).