The Writings of Thomas Jefferson, Vol. 5 (of 9) / Being His Autobiography, Correspondence, Reports, Messages, Addresses, and Other Writings, Official and Private

by Thomas Jefferson

TO GEORGE BLAKE, ESQ.

Washington, October 17, 1808.

Sir,—However favorably the enclosed papers represent the case of Alexander Frost, yet it would be against every rule of prudence for me to undertake to revise the verdict of a jury on ex parte affidavits and recommendations. If the judges and yourself who were present at the trial think the defendant a proper object of pardon, I shall be ready, on such a recommendation, to issue it. I ask the favor of your information on this subject, and salute you with esteem and respect.