James Monroe Autograph Letter Signed

Boldly penned ALS, one page, 8 x 9.75, February 1, 1828. Written from Oak Hill in Aldie, Virginia, the former president writes to Thomas W. Griffith, in full: "I should have answer'd your letter of last month before, had I not wished to examine the papers of the epoch to which you refer, & been much engaged in very interesting private concerns, which put it out of my power. As yet I have found no paper, which throws any light on the subject, nor have I any recollection of your appointment as Consul at Havre, during my mission to France of 1794. I well recollect seeing you there during that mission, and altho the period is distant, and heavy duties have pressed on me since, yet such was the favorable impression which I form'd of your conduct and character, that I am satisfied your appointment would have been very agreeable to me. Should I find any paper relating to this subject, or acquire, otherwise, any information on it, hereafter, I will communicate it to you. With best wishes for your welfare, I am, with esteem yr. ob't serv't." In very good to fine condition, with edge chips, splitting to ends of the vertical fold, irregular toning, and a light upside-down offset of an engraving on Monroe.