Thomas Jefferson to Robert Rives, 20 July 1811
To Robert Rives
Monticello July 20. 11.
Dear Sir
The failure of the postmaster of Charlottesville to forward your favor of the 3d to Milton, to which place I send every post day for my letters, has delayed my reciept of it till this moment. I hasten therefore to inclose you by tomorrow’s post an order on Gibson & Jefferson for the amount of the disbursements1 which I make 91. D 34 c; altho’ it is probable that my ignorance may have omitted articles of charge, which, not being stated in the papers, are unknown to me. I shall cheerfully supply any deficiency on it’s being intimated to me. I return you many thanks for the trouble this commission has given you. I had asked it of your son only in the event of your writing for books for him, in which case, making a part of the order for him, it would have scarcely increased the trouble.
As a separate business it has enlarged my trespass on your convenience as well as my obligations for your kindness I pray you, with the assurances of my thankfulness, to accept those of my perfect esteem & respect
Th: Jefferson
PoC (MHi); at foot of text: “Mr Rives”; endorsed by TJ. Enclosure not found.
The postmaster of charlottesville was John Winn.
1. Preceding three words interlined.