You were so kind as to write a preface to the Memoir of my grandfather when it was contemplated to publish it alone, the autumn after his death. If it is not asking too much from your kindness, I would fain hope that it would not be disagreeable to you to give it some slight touches so that it might be accomodated to the work now about to be published as its preface, with that view I enclose it to you. If the task it imposes on you be unpleasant I beg that you will return it and consider the request as not having been made.

The irremediable insolvency of my grandfathers estate imposes upon me the necessity of requesting that his library left as a legacy to the University and deposited there for safe keeping be delivered to me as assets for the payment of his debts, will you be pleased to give the necessary order for it when I shall demand them. With the most affectionate respect for yourself and Mrs Madison yours &c