The Visitors of the University not having come to any definitive resolutions on the subject of a Military School at that Institution, I on account of the Facultys permitting me to act in the capacity of Military Instr: make the following proposition to the Rector, soliciting his recommendation of the scheme, in such a manner as to find the probability of its success.

The Military School which I had at the University last summer labour’d under many difficulties, the want of arms was the principal one, and without this want is supplied a school of that kind can not be expected to prosper among young men. In order to remedy this deficiency I now petition to the Rector to apply to the proper authorities of the state for the loan of about one hundred & fifty Muskets or Carbines, and let them if got be placed under the care of the proctor of the University, who I wish to be authorized to let me use them as long as I can maintain that subordination which is necessary for the good end of the school and order of the university. I will be responsible for all damages the Arms may sustain while in possession of the students, who shall have them no longer than in actual service. I will moreover be at the expence of having the arms clean’d when necessary & spare no pains to keep them in perfect order. Any other reasonable responsibility that may be suggested I will submit to. This proposition which I have made to you as Rector, does not I believe require the sanction of the Visitors, as Mr. Jefferson a few days before being taken sick and confin’d to bed inform’d me that I should have substitutes for arms before my school expir’d, but he did not live to see the proctor. In consideration of the duties which I take upon myself, I have no doubt, but the arms will be granted on your application, I can, if req’d, give security to ensure my compliance with such regulation as I have here suggested.

I am of opinion that a M. School at the University, would be productive of many advantages, it would entice the students to remain more about the Institution than have done heretofore and afford an exercise to them amusing, usefull & manly all of which tend to stimulate the young men in their studies. I don’t doubt but you’ill grant this scheme to be the most expeditious one that can be taken (without expence to the state) to testify the usefulness of a M.S. at the university. If you will be so good as to make the application which I have requested I will endeavour to testify the utility of a M. S at the university next year provided I am patronized by the students as I was last summer. I will make out a scheme of the M. S. I propose & lay it before the Faculty for their approbation you will much oblige me by letting me h⟨ear⟩ from you on the subject. I avail myself of this opportunity to express to you my high esteem & consideration with assurrances of sincere respect