Letter, 1807 May 19, Washington, [D.C] to [William] Short, n.p.

Abstract

Returns to Washington, D.C. later than expected which kept him from sending the draft for $500 to Short; the crop did not earn as much as expected; still hopes to be able to repay Short completely by July; sees no problem with his manager at Monticello to also oversee Short's "tenants" but explains that the present manager is not experienced or capable enough for the job; cannot think of anyone else in the area that would "suit" Short but will continue to try; decided to retire for various reasons including "a decline of physical faculties;" discusses Federalists' opinions of him as president; discusses the difficulty in finding a suitable successor for president; discusses appointing and removing Republicans and Federalists from office during his presidency; looks forward to the last day of his presidency.