Gentlemen,—It has been represented to me on behalf of the inhabitants of the town of Washington in Pennsylvania, that by a survey made at their expense, it is found that the western road, if carried through their town, to Wheeling, would be but a mile longer, would pass through better ground, and be made at less expense; and if carried to Short Creek, instead of Wheeling, the difference of distance would still be less. The principal object of this road is a communication directly westwardly. If, however, inconsiderable deflections from this course will benefit particular places, and better accommodate travellers, these are circumstances to be taken into consideration. I have therefore to desire that, having a regard to the funds which remain, you make as good an examination as they will admit, of the best route through Washington to Wheeling, and also to Short Creek or any other point on the river, offering a more advantageous route towards Chillicothe and Cincinatti, and that you report to me the material facts, with your opinions for consideration. I salute you with respect.
TO THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY.
Monticello, August 6, 1808.
Dear Sir,—On the subject of the western road, our first error was the admitting a deviation to Brownsville, and thus suffering a first encroachment on its principle. This is made a point d'appui to force a second, and I am told a third holds itself in reserve, so that a few towns in that quarter seem to consider all this expense as undertaken merely for their benefit. I should have listened to these solicitations with more patience, had it not been for the unworthy motives presented to influence me by some of those interested. Sometimes an opposition by force was held up, sometimes electioneering effects, as if I were to barter away, on such motives, a public trust committed to me for a different object. It seems, however, that our first error having made Brownsville, and no longer Cumberland, the point of departure, we must now go no further back in examining the claim of Washington. I have therefore written to the commissioners, the letter of which I enclose you a copy. The time saved by sending it to them direct, may be important, as they may be near their return. I am doubtful whether they have money enough left for a thorough examination. If they have, their report will enable us to decide on this second deflection. But what will Wheeling say if we take the road from it, to give it to Washington? I do not know its size or importance, nor whether some obstacles to navigation may not oppose our crossing at a higher place. I salute you with constant affection.
TO THE SECRETARY AT WAR.
Monticello, August 9, 1808.
Dear Sir,—Yours of July 27th is received. It confirms the accounts we receive from others that the infractions of the embargo in Maine and Massachusetts are open. I have removed Pope, of New Bedford, for worse than negligence. The collector of Sullivan is on the totter. The tories of Boston openly threaten insurrection if their importation of flour is stopped. The next post will stop it. I fear your Governor is not up to the tone of these parricides, and I hope, on the first symptom of an open opposition of the law by force, you will fly to the scene and aid in suppressing any commotion.
I enclose you the letter of Captain Dillard, recommending Walter Bourke for appointment. I know nothing of the writers of any of the letters except Thore, Jones, and Thweat, who are good men. I like Meigs' scheme with the Cherokees, and would wish it success. But will Congress give such a sum of money. The message of the Creek Chief is so far satisfactory, that I think we should give them time. Could we engage them to assist us in destroying the guilty banditti? The letter enclosed from Cuthbert to Mr. Madison, on the means of taking Quebec, is worthy notice, and I wish you could, before your return, have an interview with him. Your office, and receipt of the letter from me, will give confidence to his communications. We have letters from Mr. Pinckney to May 30, but not one word interesting. Present me respectfully to Mrs. Dearborne, and accept my affectionate salutations.
TO THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY.
Monticello, August 9, 1808.