Martha Jefferson Randolph to Septimia A. Randolph [Meikleham]
| Dear Septimia | Cary’s brooke Jan. 29. 1829 |
I am very sorry that there should have been any difficulty about your Mammy’s going to live with James. I had promised Priscilla that she might go with her husband when I broke up house keeping, before I knew what James arrangments would be; and having once pledged my word I do not feel at liberty to retract. of course when I mentioned the plan to him it was understood on my part, and I thought also by him, that it was conditional, provided she a consented. but if she is unwilling I do not wish to force her. and as nurse to my children she has claims upon me that I must always acknowledge. I hope James will be able to make some other arrangement. in a letter which Virginia received from Nicholas a few days ago he begs Jefferson to enclose the catalogue to Mr Madison to be forwarded to him for immediate publication, and that the books had better be packed and sent off as soon as possible—the beginning, or the end, of the session makes a great difference in the capability of purchasing with the members, who lay out their money much more freely early in the session than late—you must not be surprised if we over stay our time a week or so Your aunt Cary and the girls are very urgent that we should and as Hannah may not have arrived it is of little importance except that good weather & dry roads will very much determine us. adieu dear daughter the next letter will be to your sisters I believe you love me if you do show it by gentleness of deportment and industry remember me most affectionately to your, Sisters Jane included, your brothers, and the children and believe me your most affectionate mother