Documents

William Short writes to a friend and former classmate, congratulating him on his marriage and discussing the institution.

William Short writes to an unknown person and describes events in Europe and Virginia, including his hopes for the abolition of slavery. This incomplete letter is perhaps the first instance of Short expressing his hopes for an end to slavery.

William Short informs the Prussian emissary of the instructions he has received from the American government to conclude the ratification of the 1785 Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the United States and Prussia. 

A document of William Short's calculations, accounts, and payments in livres tournois of his salary from 24 September 1785 to 24 April 1788. 

William Short writes to a French land speculator in the United States about his travel across the Atlantic, his arrival in France, and first impressions and experiences of French life and language.

William Short offers condolences to a friend upon the death of a loved one, approves of his travel plans to help him deal with the grief, and invites him to Europe if he can manage.

William Short writes to his cousin discussing exchange rates in Paris and London and asking for news from Virginia.

William Short writes to the secretary to the American legation in London, discussing personal matters, domestic changes in Thomas Jefferson's household, friendships, and his feelings regarding America.

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