From Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 23 January 1825

I inclose you a letter from mr Cabell and a copy of the bill I prepared and sent him as he requested.

I send you also a letter from mr Gilmer, by which he seems determd not to undertake our professorship. what are we to do? I abhor the idea of a mere Gothic lawyer who has no idea beyond his Coke Littleton, who could not associate in conversation with his Colleagues, nor utter a single Academical idea to an enquiring stranger. the only substitute for Gilmer I can think of is Wm C. Preston who wrote the answer to Shelby on the charge against his gr. father Colo Wm Campbell of King’s mountain. he is a fine young man, has travelled to great advantage, and left behind him the most respectable recollections. I wrote to Genl Breckenridge to enquire concerning him but have no answer. I hear nothing further from Tucker, nor of our three Professors from London. Gilmer seems to have made a considerable purchase of books. they are at the University, but cannot be opened for want of the Catalogue, for which I have written to him. I desired him to give expectations to Dr Emmet. affectly yours

Th: Jefferson