Thomas Jefferson Papers

To Thomas Jefferson from Oliver Evans, 5 May 1805

From Oliver Evans

Phila May 5th 1805

Sir

By yours of 28th ult I find I have not wrote so explicitly as to be clearly understood Mr Clymer did not mean to impose any conditions on which his communications should be made he only means to keep his project a profound Secret untill it may be put in operation if adopted because a knowledge of the mode or means of attack would give an enemy an opportunity of preparing for defense ever Since the receit of your Answer Mr Clymer has been out of the City and I do not know where to direct a letter to him as soon as he returns which I expect will be in a few days you may expect to hear from him—

Your most Obdt Huml Servt

Oliver Evans

RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thos Jefferson”; endorsed by TJ as received 8 May and so recorded in SJL.

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