Monticello June 23. 19. Sir Your favor of May 21. was received in due time. the Visitors [strikeout] of the University of Virginia had determined at their meeting in March, that it was not expedient to divert any of its funds from building, during the present year; but that propositions should be made, and an engagement entered with Dr. Cooper to undertake the professorship of Natural Philosophy, Chemistry, Mineralogy, as also that of law, and to open these schools in April next. The probable impracticability of proving buildings this season for the other professorship induced them to expect that another year would be necessary for that object, and that a general opening of the University would be to be postponed till 1821. It is visible that the slow progress of building will produce the delay they apprehended. I am sorry therefore that this state of things, and the anticipation of the appointment of a professor to the school you desired leave no room for availing the University of the offer of services you have been pleased to tender. Accept I pray the assurance of my great respect Th: Jefferson Dr. Patrick [inserted: K.] Rogers