ALS signed “Th: Jefferson,” one page, 8 x 9.75, August 15, 1816. Handwritten letter from Monticello to David Gelston, continuing a correspondence concerning the disposition of various articles—specifically large shipments of wine—arriving from Europe, wherein Jefferson has provided specific destinations for the incoming goods. He reiterates the contents of earlier communications and thanks Gelston for accommodating any trouble his requests might have caused.
In full: "Your favors of July 31 and Aug. 6 are both at hand. I considered that of July 31 as answered by mine of Aug. 3, altho' not then received: and indeed the general request I made you in that, anticipated the subject of your last letter also; by requesting all articles received for me to be consigned to Mess'rs Gibson & Jefferson of Richmond, drawing on them for whatever articles of expence may be referred to them, and notifying me of any others. If the bank paper of Richmond is receivable with you I could always myself make prompt returns to you by mail. If not receivable I should always be obliged to remit thro' my correspondents at Richmond. I shall often be needing apologies for these trouble to you, which I hope you will excuse and be assured of my great esteem and respect." In fine condition, with light toning from prior display. Accompanied by an engraved portrait of Jefferson featuring a facsimile signature.
Here referenced, David Gelston's letters of July 31st and August 6th concerned 'a case said to contain 25 bottles sautern wine' and a separate shipment of '57 bottles wine,' while Jefferson's letter of August 3rd pertained to an incoming 'case of Barsac wine from Bordeaux.' Having traveled the winemaking regions of France in the 1780s, Jefferson was one of early America's leading wine connoisseurs, preferring to drink and serve the fine lighter wines of France and Italy.
A New York merchant and politician who signed the articles of association in 1774, Gelston served as a member of the New York State Senate on two separate occasions. He was appointed by President Jefferson as Collector of the Port of New York in 1801, and held that post until his retirement in 1821.
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