To Thomas Jefferson from Benjamin Henry Latrobe, 2 May 1808
Capitol, May 2d. 1808
Sir
Since I dispatched my letter of this morning, I have gone over with Mr Lenthall the papers in the office, & the following is the result.
Our large stone has cost $1.75 ⅌ perch such as we have always used at the Capitol; but small stone fit for the Wall, if mixed with larger, may be had at $1.12½, say with Waste, and laying up close, | $1.30 |
One man will lay a perch of Wall & point it on both sides ⅌ day & no more he must be a good hand to do that Wages ⅌ day | 1.66⅔ | |
Our Mortar i.e sand & lime hauling included cost us from 70 cts. to 75 ⅌ perch | .70 | |
Hauling the Stone | .37½ | |
4.04 |
There are a thousand inconveniences & losses attending this long stretch of Work to which no other is liable.
We already begin to suffer so much by the carrying off Lumber in the night, that I cannot help thinking that a Marine Guard, day & night, will be absolutely necessary. Last winter even, altho’ all our Lumber was inclosed we were very much robbed.
With the highest respect I am Yrs. faithfully
BH Latrobe
DLC: Papers of Thomas Jefferson.