Thomas Jefferson to Wythe, 12 July 1792
Thomas Jefferson responds to Wythe's letter from June 15 saying that when he asked the workmen about the seal, the best offer he found was from James Poupard. Poupard offered to do the seal for 64 dollars if made in brass or for twice that at 128 dollars if made in steel. Jefferson asks which metal is preferred and what size the Court wants the seal. He tells Wythe to send the answer to either Mr. Taylor at the Secretary of State's office in Philadelphia or to his home at Monticello. Jefferson says that sending it to the Secretary of State's office will likely mean he will get a response about a week sooner.
"Thomas Jefferson to Wythe, 12 July 1792." Image from the Library of Congress, The Thomas Jefferson Papers.
Letter text
Philadelphia July 12. 1792
Dear Sir
On receipt of your favor inclosing the devise for a seal, I had enquiry made of different workmen here, and have found one of them alone, who is within the bounds of reason. this is a mr Poupard who will do the seal for 32. dollars for each side, say 64. for the two sides, in brass, and for twice that sum in steel. I have thought it best to ask your pleasure in which metal you will have it executed, & of what size; and if you will be so good as to address an answer to mr Taylor at the Secretary of state’s office Philada, or to me at Monticello your will shall be done. the former address will save a week or ten days. being all hurry on the approach of my departure I can only add assurances of eternal esteem & respect from
your affectionate
Th: Jefferson
