Letter, 1789 December 14, Eppington, [Chesterfield County, Virginia] to [William Short], n.p.

Abstract

Shares that he spent his time since his letter of 21 November travelling and socializing with friends; passes along news of weddings and deaths as well as local events, including the departure of George Wythe from William & Mary because he was "disgusted with some of the conduct of the professors"; comments that Hampden-Sydney "is going to nothing" as well because of the "religious phrenzy" there; comments on anti-federalism and opposition to the Constitution in Virginia, led by Patrick Henry; describes improvements being made to Richmond, Virginia, including the capitol, "an edifice of first rate dignity"; lists neighbors near Monticello; notes judicial appointments to the Supreme Court and district and circuit courts; lists cabinet-level salaries; mentions that he was offered the position of secretary of state, which he is ambivalent about but will accept if George Washington thinks it will benefit the country.