Thomas Jefferson to William Thornton, 17 June 1812
To William Thornton
Monticello June 17. 12.
Dear Sir
From my letter of May 24. you had reason to expect that a cart would be upon you immediately for Barrett’s machine. while I was preparing to send one off I was assured a waggon would set out from this neighborhood within a few days for Washington, which should bring my machine on it’s return, and it was not till last night that I learned that I could not avail myself of that conveyance. I now therefore resume my intentions of dispatching a cart, express, which I hope will be done within a day or two. I thought this notice necessary, as well to apologize for the former suspense,1 as to inform you of the present purpose. I have already lost 4. months in my endeavors to get this machine, which retarding my spinning establishment from getting into action, makes me begin to shiver already for the people I have to clothe before cold weather. Accept the assurance of my constant esteem & respect
Th: Jefferson
RC (DLC: Thornton Papers); addressed: “Doctr William Thornton Washington Col.”; franked; postmarked Milton, 18 June 1812. PoC (MHi); endorsed by TJ.
1. Word interlined in place of “failure.”