TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
Monticello, October 27, 1790.
Sir,—I had intended to set out about this time for Philadelphia, but the desire of having Mr. Madison's company, who cannot return for some days yet, and believing that nothing important requires my presence at Philadelphia as yet, induce me to postpone my departure to the 8th of the ensuing month, so that it will be about the 12th before I can have the honor of waiting on you at Mount Vernon, to take your commands. In the meantime, the papers enclosed will communicate to you everything which has occurred to me since I saw you, and worthy notice. Our affair with Algiers seems to call for some new decision; and something will be to be done with the new Emperor of Morocco. Mr. Madison and myself have endeavored to press on some members of the assembly the expediency of their undertaking to build two good private dwelling houses a year, for ten years in the new city, to be rented or sold for the benefit of the State. Should they do this, and Maryland as much, it will be one means of ensuring the removal of government thither. Candidates for the Senate are said to be the Speaker, Colonel Harrison, Colonel H. Lee, and Mr. Walker; but it is the opinion of many that Colonel Monroe will be impressed into the service. He has agreed, it seems, with a good deal of reluctance, to say he will serve if chosen. I have the honor to be, with sentiments of the most perfect respect and attachment, Sir, your most obedient, and most humble servant.