Richard Henry Lee to Patrick Henry

I find Mr. Ellis desirous of superintending the estate of Mr. Paridise and this at the same time, and I am very willing to second his views in this matter, because I am satisfied it will redound to the benefit of both estates. Heretofore (until lately) they have always been under the same management, and from their situation, and other circumstances, capable of co-operating and assisting each other. Mr. Ellis’s fitness to manage both, is I believe equal to any mans. The act of assembly lately passed for sequestering British property, evidently designs nothing at present unfriendly to the Owners of such property, and therefore I should suppose, that in appointing a Commissioner for the estate of Mr. Paradise, regard may properly be had to the choice of a person who is at once friendly to the public and to the Proprietor of the estate. Such a person, in this instance is Col’o Henry Lee. He is willing to undertake it, and he is uncle by marriage to the Lady of Mr. Paradise. Should these things appear to you in the light they do to me, I shall be obliged to you, sir, for having the business so managed as that Mr. Ellis may succeed in his desire. I have the honor to be with great esteem and respect, dear Sir,

your most affectionate and obedient.

Richard Henry Lee