office, so perhaps there is no man amongst us who is more unpopular or less respected.

For various reasons which will be obvious to you I wish to avoid a public meeting. It would be a measure from which many unpleasant reflections might result. It would place in the hands of those who are opposed to the Government, a formidable weapon. I shall do every thing in my power to prevent it. But such is the warmth manifested by our friends, and excited by Mr. Gelston's opposition to what they deem a matter of right and not of favour, that I much doubt my ability to prevent it. I feel more delicacy as it regards you than myself. If our friends were of opinion that the press could be better managed, or with more economy, by any other person, I would relinquish it without a struggle. But they are pleased to express an opinion that events of moment may occur in which I may be of Service to the Country. They will not permit me to dispose of the establishment.

With all possible deference and the most sincere and affectionate attachment I submit this matter to your decision, with a full assurance that, whatever it may be, it will meet with the entire approbation of your Excellency's Most obedient and devoted servant,

JAMES CHEETHAM.

HIS EXCELLENCY THOMAS JEFFERSON

To the Proprietor of the Am. Citizen Dr.

NEW YORK, October 18, 1806.

SIR, Marc Antonie Alexis Giraud, Commissary of the Emperor of France for the Eastern States, residing at Boston, has many years been one of my subscribers. Mr. Giraud called at my office on the 16th. Inst. to direct the discontinuance of his Paper to Boston and to order it to be sent to him at Lexington, Kentucky, where he informed me he was going to reside all winter. As this change of residence may be political, I have deemed it my duty to inform you of it.

I am your obt. Servt

JAMES CHEETHAM.

WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 07.

SIR,

Your account amounting to 30: D. tho' received some time ago had escaped my attention. having occasion to make a remittance to Mr. Gelston I have included that sum with his, and must therefore ask the favor of you to call on him for it. the time of my retirement being now not very distant, I am beginning to retire from paper reading. I cannot begin better than with the New York Evening post, of which in truth I have scarcely opened one for two years past. I will therefore pray you to discontinue forwarding them to me. Accept my salutations and respects.

TH: JEFFERSON.