I recieved yesterday your favor of the 4th informing me of the arrival of the Merinos, and at the same time one from the President undertaking to recieve & forward mine with his own. any charges which may have attended their passage, he will be so good as to pay jointly with his own to be reimbursed by me. I thank you very sincerely for your kind offers to take care of these valuable animals, and should with equal pleasure render you any service for which occasion should offer. I shall consider the acquisition of this race of sheep as for the public benefit, not my own personal one, & fulfill that end in the best way I can. Accept the assurances of my esteem & respect.

Th: Jefferson