XXV. XXV
LEWIS TO JEFFERSON
XXV. [From original MS. in Bureau of Rolls—Jefferson Papers, series 2, vol. 51, doc. 100.]
Pittsburgh, July 22d. 1803.
Dear Sir: Yours of the 11th. & 15th. Inst. were duly recieved, the
former on the 18th. inst. the latter on this day. For my pocketbook I
thank you: the dirk could not well come by post, nor is it of any
moment to me, the knives that were made at Harper's ferry will answer
my purpose equally as well and perhaps better; it can therefore be
taken care of untill my return: the bridle is of no consequence at all.
After the reciept of this letter I think it will be best to direct me at
Louisville Kentuckey.
The person who contracted to build my boat engaged to have it in
readiness by the 20th. inst.; in this however he has failed; he pleads his
having been disappointed in procuring timber, but says he has now
supplyed himself with the necessary materials, and that she shall be
completed by the last of this month; however in this I am by no
means sanguine, nor do I believe from the progress he makes that she
will be ready before the 5th. of August; I visit him every day, and
endeavour by every means in my power to hasten the completion of
the work: I have prevailed on him to engage more hands, and he tells
me two others will join him in the morning, if so, he may probably
finish the boat by the time he mentioned: I shall embark immediately
the boat is in readiness, there being no other consideration which at this
moment detains me.
The Waggon from Harper's ferry arrived today, bringing everything
with which she was charged in good order.
The party of recruits that were ordered from Carlisle to this place
with a view to descend the river with me, have arrived with the exception
of one, who deserted on the march, his place however can
be readily supplyed from the recruits at this place enlisted by Lieut.
Hook.
The current of the Ohio is extreemly low and continues to decline,
this may impede my progress but shall not prevent my proceeding, being
determined to get forward though I should not be able to make a greater
distance than a mile pr day.—
I am with the most sincere regard Your Obt. Servt.
Meriwether Lewis.
Thomas Jefferson President U. S.
