To Thomas Jefferson from William Armistead Burwell, 20 February 1807
F’ruary 20th 1807—
with some difficulty last night, & some additional exertions this morning, I have succeeded in quieting Mr. R.s mind, be assured on your account, & that of your family, I will not for a moment, loose sight of this Subject, & with your cooperation (in the manner, I last night stated,) will effectually avert that calamity; I am certain from a promise I have exacted & receiv’d no step will be taken with out my previous knowledge; & under that condition I do not fear consequences—Mr. R. is much happier to day than yesterday. I shall endeavor to confirm that state of mind.—
I wish you all possible happiness Sincerely
W. A Burwell
ViU.