TO CAPTAIN JOHN PAUL JONES.
Paris, August 13, 1785.
Sir,
Supposing you may be anxious to hear from hence, though there should be nothing interesting to communicate, I write by Mr. Cairnes merely to inform you, that I have, as yet, received no answer from the Marechal de Castries. I am in daily expectation of one. Should it not be received soon, I shall urge it again, which I wish to avoid however, if possible; because I think it better to await with patience a favorable decision, than by becoming importunate, to produce unfavorable dispositions, and, perhaps, a final determination of the same complexion. Should my occupations prevent my writing awhile, be assured that it will only be as long as I have nothing to communicate, and that as soon as I receive any answer, it shall be forwarded to you.
I am, with much esteem, Sir,
your most obedient, humble servant,
Th: Jefferson.
Memoir, Correspondence, and Miscellanies, From the Papers of Thomas Jefferson, Volume 1 · The Wunder Library — complete classics, free to read, with narration.