Philadelphia July 8th. 1776
Dr Sir
For news I refer you to your brother who writes on that head. I enclose you a copy of the declaration of independence as agreed to by the House, and also, as originally framed. You will judge whether it is the better or worse for the Critics. I shall return to Virginia after the 11th of August.1 I wish my successor may be certain to Come before that time, in that case, I shall hope to see you and Mr. Wythe in Convention, that the business of Government, which is of everlasting Concern, may receive your aid.2
Adieu, and beleive me to be Your friend & Servant,
Thomas Jefferson
Transcription, Virginia Historical Society. Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 1:455 - 56.
1 See Jefferson to the President of the Virginia Convention, June 30, 1776, note 3.
2 In his response of July 21 Lee informed Jefferson that he planned to meet Gorge Wythe "at Hooes ferry the 3d of September unless some pressing call takes me to Congress sooner." Jefferson, Papers (Boyd), 1:471.