Rembrandt Peale to Thomas Jefferson
Philadelphia, July 13, 1813
Dear Sir
In a Box of Books which general Armstrong presented to the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine-Arts there were packed up several articles belonging to himself which he requested me to take charge of, It was a long time after I had them before I remarked a small package for you, containing 3 Stones which you were desirous of possessing, accompanied with a letter from the gentleman who purchased them for you. The small piece which he mentions having cemented, I found again loose—but no other damage. Dr marks & afterwards a near neighbour of yours promised to take charge of them but they failed giving me notice of their departure, and I now remit them by Mr Correa for whom they have been long waiting.
Having purchased the museum in Baltimore, I mean to form a handsome establishment in that City, the general plan of which will differ from my fathers museum, it being my intention to render it more properly a museum of Arts & Sciences, and, without neglecting any branch of Natural History to bestow my chief attention to the formation of a Picture Gallery & Depository of the course and products of Manufactures.
I still hope some fortunate leisure will enable me to pay a Visit to Monticello. In the meanwhile believe me Sir
respectfully,
Rembrandt Peale
Thomas Jefferson to Rembrandt Peale
Monticello, VA, August 11, 1813
Dear Sir
I duly recieved by mr Correa your favor of July 13 and with it the peices of agate & Madrepore sent me thro’ Genl Armstrong & to your care. the transaction stated in the letter accompanying them had so entirely escaped my memory, that the name being subscribed in illegible characters, I am not able to ascertain from whom it comes. I am not however the less obliged to one who recollects to do a kind office when I had forgotten the having requested it. I sincerely wish you success in the establishment of your museum. these things kindle a thirst for knolege, and often draw to useful objects those who would otherwise employ themselves frivolously. should any circumstance ever lead you within striking distance of Monticello I should be very happy to recieve you. Accept the assurance of my great esteem & respect.
Th: Jefferson