It gives me peculiar joy, as it does the American public totally, to behold you, with your political companion, James Monroe, assisting the collected distinguished Statesmen and patriots of Virginia, in the construction of a constitution for the future direction of your legislators, and for the security and permanency of the rights and liberties of the people.

Having long been convinced that the free and universal diffusion of education and useful knowledge is indispensable for the accomplishment of these latter objects, I have published some reflections and suggestions on the subject, in a small tract; a copy of which I take the liberty of enclosing, (in a separate sheet) for the consideration of yourselves and the gentlemen of the convention in general, if you think proper to introduce it to them.

Recollecting your sentiments on the importance of the general diffusion of knowledge, as expressed in your public messages to Congress, as well as in your personal conversations with me at your own houses, I am fully aware that you need no arguments from any quarter, to induce you to avail yourselves of the last public opportunity that you will probably ever again possess, of volunteering the weight of your paternal influence in favor of securing to the present and all the future generations of Virginia, the greatest blessings that man ever yet received from man, free education, free knowledge, freedom of mind and person, virtue and happiness.

If the convention now in session at Richmond, should adopt a system of equal, free and universal education, I cherish the hope that the people of Virginia will confirm it, and that her eminent example will be followed without delay, by every other state in the republic, and by the general government in concert with them.

Wishing that you may both live to enjoy the happiness of seeing the magnificent political fabric* which you have jointly labored to erect, invincibly fortified, I remain your very affectionate friend,