Documents

A friend of William Short updates him on political, legal, and cultural events in Virginia and the backcounty, relays information about relations between Virginia and Maryland, and discusses British debt.

A friend of William Short relays news from home, including health issues, Virginia politics, and foreign relations, and he compares the culture of America with Europe.

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