[From Thomas Jefferson to John Strode, 9 July 1803, Founders Online, National Archives, accessed December 10, 2019, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Jefferson/01-40-02-0532:]
DEAR SIR [John Strode]
Washington July 9. 1803.
Three days ago I answered your friendly letter of the 26th. June and mentioned that I should probably leave this place on the 25th. I now think I shall leave it on the 24th. & be with you [Strode’s home in Culpeper County] on the 25th. if nothing unforeseen happens. I last night recieved from my daughter [Mary] Eppes a letter informing me she should then be at the Louisa [Green] springs, which will induce me to go by them, and the rather as it may give me an opportunity of exploring the road from the Raccoon ford towards Boswell’s old place, & so on to the old well on the 3. notched road, James river &c. I think you once told me you had a friend residing perhaps at Porter’s mill or near there, who would know of the ways leading towards Boswell’s & the springs, or could easily acquire the knolege. if you could by letter obtain information from him whether there be a road leading from the Raccoon ford towards Boswell’s old place or the Louisa springs, and some account of it, before I have the pleasure of seeing you, I could on recieving it when I meet you, decide whether I would attempt to go along it. the state of the road, stages, or farmer’s houses distances, whether hilley or level, open or embarrassed with trees &c are the material circumstances. Accept my salutations & respects.
TH: JEFFERSON
