Thomas Jefferson Papers

To Thomas Jefferson from William Tatham, 15 June 1805

From William Tatham

15th. June 1805.

W. Tatham’s compts. to the President—He has written to Messrs. Learmonth’s & Berry, (the House he is concerned for) Merchts. in London, for a Camera Obscura for the President’s use, to be made as elegantly Plain as possible, by the best Workmen, with spare Glasses of several focuses, Diagonal Head, &c, compleat.—It will be paid for out of W.Ts, own private Monies in the Companies hands; but he can not say what the Price will be. He will, however, look for the Bill of the One he has, by which any importer will be able to settle an approximate Price; & the Acct. can be ultimately adjusted when it arrives.

W.T. will thank the President to spare the One he has, a day or two, as Mrs. Merry has expressed a desire to see it before she leaves Town for the Hot Season. It shall be sent back again immediately, after he has gratified the Curiosity of his Amiable friend.—

RC (DLC); addressed: “The President of the U. States,” with notation “Private Note”; endorsed by TJ as received 15 June and so recorded in SJL.

Tatham dined at the President’s House on 5 June (Appendix II). TJ previously purchased a Camera Obscura in 1794 (Vol. 27:47n).

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