From Thomas Jefferson to James Sansom, 18 November 1807

Washington Nov. 18. 07.

Th: Jefferson presents his compliments to mr Sansom, & his thanks for the fine medal of Doctr. Franklin he has been so kind as to send him, in which he recognises the masterly hand of mr Reich. it is a worthy companion of the one before made, of Genl. Washington.

No one is more sensible than himself of the merits of mr Reich, nor would be more desirous to serve him. but in the public employments there are certain rules which must be regularly pursued, in order to keep out of our institutions a spirit of favoritism & partiality equally injurious to the public and dangerous to real merit. there is too a regular course of taking up any particular case, which does not permit it to begin with the chief magistrate. he salutes mr Sansom with great esteem & respect.

DLC: Papers of Thomas Jefferson.

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