The bearer of this is Doctr Watkins, an esteemed1 neighbor of mine, and our family physician. proposing to make a visit to Washington, he is desirous of being presented to you, and altho he has heretofore had that honor, he is apprehensive that in the croud of those who necessarily wait on you,2 he may not be recollected, and therefore asks this letter. I give it with the more3 satisfaction as eminence in his profession4 the respectability of his standing, the correctness of his character & conduct, political & Moral, and his zeal for the republican principles of our constitution,5 justify the liberty I take of presenting him to your notice. I avail myself too of the occasion of saying that having understood that you contemplate a tour to this section of our country shortly,6 should you honour Monticello with a call, no visit will be more welcome or recieved with more distinguished7 pleasure than that of yourself & family of which I pray you to accept the assurance with that of my great esteem & respect