Nelson Nicholas to his uncle, Wilson Cary Nicholas, requests Wilson's approval with his plan to accompany William Rives to Williamsburg to attend college and study mathematics for as Nelson puts it, a man without knowledge of mathematics is ignorant in all things. The letter continues to explain that Nelson will still plan on studying law but will do so after finishing his college work. And indicates that he believes that he can counteract any negative impulses that he is exposed to in college., 1811 September 29

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