Documents

A cousin informs William Short of his travel plans and requests recommendations for his company to potential clients by Short and Thomas Jefferson.

William Short writes to his cousin discussing the best manners of correspondence, and he asks for news from home, both public and regarding Short's personal finances, once his cousin arrives back in Virginia.

William Short's cousin assures him he will tend to some financial matters on his behalf once he arrives in Virginia, and he recommends a banking house in London.

William Short's cousin explains that he has still not left England for Virginia, assures Short he will update him on news from Virginia as soon as he can, and asks for another copy of Jefferson's Notes on the State of Virginia, as he lost his first copy.

The secretary of the American legation in London writes to William Short regarding an American stranded in London, and he states he has come to terms with personal domestic issues.

The secretary of the American legation in London writes to William Short,  discussing letters he has written, book purchases, and Thomas Jefferson's recently injured wrist.

The American agent in The Hague reiterates that he remains at William Short's disposal for anything he might need and also expresses his hope of seeing Thomas Jefferson in Holland next summer.

Ed. notes: The transcription of the beginning of this letter can be found in the notes of “Thomas Jefferson to Rayneval, with Enclosure, 30 September 1786,” published by Founders Online.      

Dumas mentions this letter when he writes to Jefferson a few days before, “C. W. F. Dumas to Thomas Jefferson, 17 October 1786,” published by Founders Online.

William Short writes a friend and discusses his experiences in Europe, his anticipated return to America, and various agricultural topics.

The secretary of the American legation in London writes to William Short regarding the purchase of shoes and shipping of books.  

Upon Fulwar Skipwith's instructions, W. Ogilvy encloses a letter to William Short and promises will forward any other items, such as newspapers, that will come to him from Virginia.