In our Republic great men become so identified with the nation that they are too much regarded as public property which subjects them to many intrusions which must prove truly disagreable—& from these circumstances I have felt extremely diffident & unwilling to trespass on your valuable & important time—

Being totally unacquainted in your vicinity & having always looked to you as the head & soul of our University which is about to rear its majestic head under your benign auspices I have taken the liberty to enquire if its operations will be commenced with the month of February & if the necessary text books are adopted & the qualifications necessary fixed on to enter the several classes & if any other rules & regulations are adopted & if so to request a copy of the same or some information on the subject—The lower counties of Va have long looked forward to the opening of this institution as constituting a new epoch in our history & of course a most auspicious one—Many of neighbours & friends are now ready to partake of the benefits expected to be conferred & on their account as well as of a Brother whom I wish to enter at its commencement has caused me to make the above enquiry—Be pleased to accept the assurances of the highest respect & consideration from Sir