From Thomas Jefferson to John Coalter, 8 May 1807

Having a considerable debt to pay to mr Higginbotham of Milton, it becomes necessary for me to call in all my resources. mr Clarke cannot I think consider a requisition of what he owes me as unreasonable after the delay with which he has been indulged. I must therefore pray you to close that matter by collecting this judgment with as little delay as practicable, & remitting it to mr Higginbotham, from whom any directions which may be given will be as from myself.   I must ask the favor of you also to settle another old affair for me with mr McDowell. the inclosed paper will fully apprise you of it’s nature and situation. it is impossible that mr McDowell should not have sold the whole of the nails by this time, which is the more to be believed as he has not returned them according to his undertaking. indeed, independant of the nails unsold at the date of his letter inclosed (which were a part of the 8. pennies only) there would be a balance of near £50. besides interest. altho’ it would be extremely convenient to me to have this money also paid to mr Higginbotham, yet I will not incommode mr McDowell with a sudden call. if therefore he will give his note for the balance paiable in a twelve month that time may be given. your assistance in bringing this matter to a footing of certainty will much oblige me. I salute you with great esteem & respect.