Letter from Davies to Thayer, June 22, 1827 about Edward Courtenay teaching at the University of Virginia.

Military Academy
West Point June 22d 1827

Sir

In answer to your inquiries with regard to the capabilities and qualifications of Mr. Edward Courtenay, to fill the Mathematical Chair of the University of Virginia, I have the honor to state, that while a student in the Mathematical Department here, his talents were considered of the highest order, and that he held the first place in his class, almost without competition --- His success as an instructer [sic], after he was graduated, in the Department of Philosophy and Engineering, are too well known to you, to require to be mentioned by me, and yet I would add, that my intimacy with him, made me particularly acquainted with the extent of his researches and acquirements --- Mr. Courtenay is thoroughly versed in the exact sciences, and has the clear and amiable manner of communicating his knowledge to others, which renders an instructer [sic] both useful, and acceptable to his pupils.

I know of no one, among the graduates of this Institution better, if as well, qualified to be useful to the University of Virginia, and should he be selected, I am confident he will hive entire satisfaction, and do credit to his alma mater. I am with respect & esteem your obt. servant.

Charles Davies

To Lt. Col. S. Thayer  S. M. A.

There is a transcript of this letter in The West Point Thayer Papers 1808-1872, edited by Cindy Adams, 1965.

Page created November 2000.