Extract from Thomas Jefferson to Elizabeth Trist

I left all well at Monticello, except Benjamin whose health is very precarious. Lewis is become the favorite of all. his vivacity, his intelligence, & his beauty (for the mark in his forehead is disappearing) make him a perfect pet. you will perceive from these senile details of the nursery that I am becoming old. I wish I had no other proofs. but I am weakening very sensibly. I can walk no further than my garden. I ride however, and in a carriage can come here without fatigue. I fear however this will not long be the case.

PoC (MoSHi: TJC); at foot of text: “Mrs Trist”; endorsed by TJ. Published in PTJRS, 6:610.
Date Range
Date
May 10, 1813
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