Wythe to Thomas Jefferson, 9 March 1770
George Wythe sent Thomas Jefferson grafts of fruit which is likely because Shadwell, Jefferson's plantation, burned down in February of 1770 [1]. Along with the grafts, Wythe sent two catalogues and his wife sent peas. Wythe told Jefferson that he sent Jefferson's messenger to Major Taliaferro so that more grafts could be sent. Wythe expressed his belief that Jefferson would overcome his loss and be able to find advantages in it because he was so composed after the misfortune occurred.
Letter text
9. Mar. 1770.
I send you some nectarine and apricot graffs and grapevines, the best I had; and have directed your messenger to call upon Major Taliaferro for some of his. You will also receive two of Foulis’s catalogues. Mrs. Wythe will send you some garden peas.
You bear your misfortune so becomingly, that, as I am convinced you will surmount the difficulties it has plunged you into, so I foresee you will hereafter reap advantages from it several ways. Durate, et vosmet rebus servate secundis.[2]
