To Thomas Jefferson from Frederick Winslow Hatch, 12 March 1825

Dear Sir—

March 11h. Saty Eveng

In consequence of some intimations from your Grand Son Benjn respecting yr wishes as to his future course of study, I have concluded to place him on Monday in a French Class, to continue his Latin, carry him forward in his arithmetic & dispense with his Greek.—In this way, he may be qualified to enter the University by the middle of June.—

He informs me that such is your wish, & in order to accomplish it with credit to himself & in the fair prospect of future usefulness, all that is necessary on his part, is, a moderate industry in his studies.—During the present Session, I have had cause to complain of his inattention & idleness—but from appearances now, there seems to be reason to expect a change of habit.—Benjn has little taste for Greek, is much more fond of Latin & manifests a considerable Mathematical talent.—

Tho’ I am not a proficient in French, yet I believe my pronunciation is not barbarous, & Benjn may probably learn enough of this Language thro’ my aid as will be requir’d.—I propose to introduce Lewis into the same class—(French)—he wishes to continue his Greek; but, Sir, if it is design’d to place him at yr University next spring, he must become more industrious or he will not enter with credit, either to himself or his Instructor. What I can do to effect this you may be assur’d of—wherein I fail will be regretted by no one more than myself.—I had intended visiting you today but circumstances prevented—Very respecty

F. W. Hatch

MHi.

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