Documents

A friend and fellow Phi Beta Kappa member writes to William Short, describing his travels in Europe and discussing sexual encounters.

A friend of William Short relays news from home and asks Short to compare France to Virginia.

A friend and fellow Phi Beta Kappa member discusses his relationship with a married woman and news about acquaintances in common.

A mentor of William Short relays news from Virginia and America.

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.

A physician friend informs Short of Dr. James Lyons' return to the United States, discusses the medical profession and events in Virginia.

The secretary to the American legation in London writes to William Short, discussing political conditions, offering advice, and describing his concerns and hopes for America's future.

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