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To James Monroe Washington, Nov. 14, 1801
DEAR SIR, -- The bearer hereof is Mr. Whitney at Connecticut a
mechanic of the first order of ingenuity, who invented the
 cotton gin
now so much used in the South; he is at the head of a considerable
gun manufactory in Connecticut, and furnishes the U.S. with muskets
undoubtedly the best they receive. He has invented molds and
machines for making all the pieces of his locks so exactly equal,
that take 100 locks to pieces and mingle their parts and the hundred
locks may be put together as well by taking the first pieces which
come to hand. This is of importance in repairing, because out of 10
locks e.g. disabled for the want of different pieces, 9 good locks
may be put together without employing a smith. Leblanc in France had
invented a similar process in 1788 and had extended it to the barrel,
mounting & stock. I endeavored to get the U.S. to bring him over,
which he was ready for on moderate terms. I failed and I do not know
what became of him. Mr. Whitney has not yet extended his
improvements beyond the lock. I think it possible he might be
engaged in our manufactory of Richmd. tho' I have not asked him the
question. I know nothing of his moral character. He is now on his
way to S. Carola. on the subject of his gin. Health & happiness cum
caeteris votis.
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