Thomas Jefferson to Wythe, 14 March 1791

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"Thomas Jefferson to Wythe, 14 March 1791, pg 1." Image from the Library of Congress, The Thomas Jefferson Papers.

Dear Sir         Philadelphia Mar. 14 1791.
    I am really ashamed to be so late in acknowledging the receipt of your favor of Jan. 10 which came to hand the 2d. of February. But during the session of Congress the thing of business was such as to oblige me to suspend all my private correspondence. Their recess now enables me to resume them.
    I think the allusion to the story of [Sisamnes?] in Mr. West’s design is a happy one: and, were it not presumption for me to judge him, I should suppose that parties pleading before a judge must animate the same greatly. Usage seems to justify the naming the state on the […], tho the emblems are, as they should be, so peculiar as to explain the country to which the design belongs, to those acquainted with it. But your seal may go to those who know nothing but the name of the country. The term ‘Commonwealth’ distinguishing the state of the those great members of our union (Massachusets, Pennsylvania, & Virginia) from that of the smaller ones, which will themselves “states,” it may not be amiss to change the word “state” with “Commonwealth” in the […?] I have inquired into the shape of mathematics instruments here: they are but two, very illy furnished, & very dear. They ask a dear profit of so [poreant?] on their articles merchandised in London, and as you may get them there within two months as from home, I presume you will prefer it. Should you think otherwise I offer my services to [emante?] your commission which

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"Thomas Jefferson to Wythe, 14 March 1791, pg 2." Image from the Library of Congress, The Thomas Jefferson Papers.

which it will give me pleasure to do.
    Supposing that a glance of the eye over some of the tables of the inclosed [asport?] may give you a moments assignment, I inclose you one, together with a corrected that of that on weights & measures. I am with the most cordial esteem & respect Dear Sir
              Your friend & Servt.
              Th Jefferson