William Matthews to John H. Cocke
| Sir | Charlottesville July 10th 1826 |
I addressed Mr Jefferson a short time previous to his death to know what arrangements had been made with respect to substitutes for arms for the students at the University—he stated in his letter to me that no definitive order had as yet been given, because of the doutfullness 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. On account of Mr Jeffersons indisposition a few days afterwards nothing was said on the subject.
You would now do me a great favour by communicating with the Procter on the subject. I wish to have the arms as [. . .] soon as possible: for the time I am engaged at the University will soon expire shortly, and it is my wish to instruct the class attending me in the manuel exercise
As yet I am not employed as Military Instructer in the University and can only ask the use of the arms, which Mr J.— promised when I commenced the school.
I suggested the idea of procureing arms from the state but I believe Mr J— was opposed to it, I think if they were got and spiked no danger could be apprehended, and it would save much expense which will be created by having substitutes made.
The number of students attending the military School is between 55 and sixty.
The Military Instructer has, according to the present enactments, to be appointed by the Faculty, will you be so good as to inform me at what time this appointment will be made, as I am desirous of it—by so doing you will greatly