Thomas Jefferson Papers

To Thomas Jefferson from John Reich, 22 May 1805

From John Reich

Philada: May 22nd 1805

Sir

Observing, some time since a Resolution of Congress for preserving an evidence of National Respect and of perpetuating the Services of Commodore Preble, I trust that you will pardon the Liberty I have taken of addressing you on the subject.

Your being an admirer of the fine Arts, can justly appreciate and pardon the anxiety with which I Solicit the honor of executing the Medal, and did I not feel the most perfect confidence in my ability to give Satisfaction in executing the performance, I would not intrude myself on your notice. Well aware that an undertaking which shall at once express eminent services, national esteem, and the perfection of Art, is singularly arduous, and notwithstanding the high responsibility attached to the undertaking, and acutely feeling every insinuation that can be made or sentiment advanced by persons of various descriptions, when an artist Speaks of his Art or his execution, I cannot resist the inclination I have to be employed in these services.

I am fully sensible that this is not the Language generally used by applicants, but the very limited opportunities that this city affords for the exercise of my profession renders it improper for me to rely on particular recommendation or general celebrity.

I wish Sir, most sincerely that it was possible to convey to you my feeling on this subject and to convince you that in making the request, emolument is but a Secondary consideration—your attention will, believe me, confer a lasting obligation on

Sir Your very humble Servt.

Jn. Reich

RC (DNA: RG 45, MLR); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr Washington City”; below signature: “No 17h South Fourth St”; endorsed by TJ as received 24 May and so recorded in SJL with notation “N.”

The Resolution of 3 Mch. requested that the president “cause a gold medal to be struck, emblematical of the attacks on the town, batteries and naval force of Tripoli, by the squadron under Commodore Preble’s command, and to present it to Commodore Preble” (U.S. Statutes at Large description begins Richard Peters, ed., The Public Statutes at Large of the United States … 1789 to March 3, 1845, Boston, 1855-56, 8 vols. description ends , 2:346-7).

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