ALS as president signed “Th: Jefferson,” one page, 7.5 x 9.25, Washington, February 23, 1804, to his cousin David Meade Randolph. In full: “As it appeared from your letter of Jan. 10 that you thought there was a denial of justice to you in the Treasury department, it became my duty to ask the explanations which have taken place. These now shew that the way is open to a settlement with the department directly without any further intervention of mine. I may add of a certainty that you will find a perfect disposition there to decide on your case with impartiality according to the rules of evidence which have been established in the Treasury of long standing, which were necessary for the public security, and which are of universal application.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered light areas of irregular toning, tape reinforcement along vertical edges on reverse, and a couple of minor edge tears. Accompanied by its original folder from The Rosenbach Company, this piece was once the property of the legendary autograph dealer A. S. W. Rosenbach, who was active from the 1920s to 1951.
Although a member of Jefferson's extended family, Revolutionary War-veteran David Meade Randolph was among his most bitter political critics. After recommending him for the post of United States Marshal for Virginia during Washington's presidency, Jefferson became convinced that Randolph was packing juries with Federalists; when he became president in 1801, he immediately dismissed Randolph. Despite their strong opposition, the pair remained in contact due to their close family ties—Randolph’s wife was Jefferson’s son-in-law’s sister. An interesting letter showing Jefferson’s commitment to his kinsman, fulfilling a family obligation despite his well-known dislike of Randolph. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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