William Matthews to John H. Cocke
| Sir | Charlottesville July 15th |
I addressed a letter to you on 10th inst which I expect you did not receive I therefore take the liberty of doing it again. A short time previous to Mr Jeffersons death I addressed him enquiring what arrangements had been made with respect to substitutes for arms for the students at the University—he stated in his answer that no definitive order had as yet been given because of the doubtfullness of the funds, however, he said as 55 or 60 would at present be sufficient—he would consult with the procter whether they might not order that number to be made—unfortunately his sickness a day or two afterwards prevented him from making the necessary enquries. I suggested the idea of getting arms from the state but Mr J— was opposed to it. I think if they were spiked no danger could be apprehended and it would save much expence which will be created by having substitutes made. I wish you would consult with the Procter on this subject as I wish to know the result.
The time I am engaged at the University will expire 1st Sept and I wish the class attending me to be instructed in the manuel exercise.