Thomas Jefferson Papers

William Canby to Thomas Jefferson, [ca. 13] May 1816

From William Canby

[ca. 13] 5mo 1816—

Esteemed friend Thomas Jefferson.—

it was with concern I heard (think in the 2nd Year after I Recd thy answer & Remarks on my Note) that they were published in a Wilmington News paper, for tho’ it was far from my intention, yet I think my weaknes might make Room for som to do it—as I have not for som Years kept a key, or done much busines, Yet using som handicraft industry—yet often feel the Want of Natural Ability or Supernatural perfection

farewel—

Wm Canby

RC (MHi); partial dateline at foot of text; addressed: “Thomas Jefferson (Monticello) Esqr late President of the States of North America”; franked; postmarked Wilmington, Del., 13 May; endorsed by TJ as a letter of “May 1816” received 16 May 1816 and so recorded in SJL.

TJ’s answer & remarks to Canby of 18 Sept. 1813 and Canby’s note to TJ of 27 Aug. 1813 were both published in the Wilmington Delaware Gazette, 1 Nov. 1814.

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  • Canby, William; letters from search
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  • Delaware; newspapers search
  • Delaware Gazette (Wilmington, Del., newspaper) search
  • Jefferson, Thomas; Correspondence; publication of papers search
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