authority in our own harbors. I shall write to Mr. Wagner directly
(that a post may not be lost by passing through you) to send us blank
commissions for Orleans and Louisiana, ready sealed, to be filled up,
signed, and forwarded by us. Affectionate salutations and constant
esteem.

Th: Jefferson.




LETTER XVII.--TO GOVERNOR CLAIBORNE, August 30, 1804


TO GOVERNOR CLAIBORNE.

Monticello, August 30, 1804.

Dear Sir,

Various circumstances of delay have prevented my forwarding till now
the general arrangements of the government of the territory of Orleans.
Enclosed herewith you will receive the commissions. Among these is one
for yourself as Governor. With respect to this I will enter into frank
explanations. This office was originally destined for a person * whose
great services and established fame would have rendered him peculiarly
acceptable to the nation at large. Circumstances, however, exist,
which do not now permit his nomination, and perhaps may not at any time
hereafter. That, therefore, being suspended, and entirely contingent,
your services have been so much approved, as to leave no desire to