From Thomas Jefferson to Albert Gallatin, 7 June 1803
To Albert Gallatin
June 7. 1803.
Th:J. to mr Gallatin
The bearer hereof is mr Mansfield, to be appointed Surveyor vice Putnam. he is come to get whatever information you think necessary to have communicated to him for the proper discharge of his duties. he is informed that when the other duties of his office will admit, he is to make a survey of the Missisipi, & to fix certain geographical points such as the South end of Lake Michigan, the West end of Lake Superior &c he will remain here to read & examine whatever you think proper for him. affectionate salutations.
RC (NHi: Gallatin Papers); endorsed. Not recorded in SJL.
On 14 July, Jared mansfield wrote Gallatin that he had spent considerable time since his return to West Point considering “the subjects you were pleased to lay before me, & of the means of prosecuting the business with honor to myself, & advantage to the public.” He enclosed a list of instruments he needed to carry out his duties, including “A Description of Astronomical Instruments to be purchased in Europe.” He requested Gallatin’s advice on procuring them (, 8:536–9). For another account of the meeting, see Mansfield to TJ, 7 July.