Chapter 11 The Case of the Ingenious A: Tayloe’s House
Table of Contents Chapter 11: The Case of the Ingenious A - Lovering Designs the Octagon 117. The Octagon in the 20th century, and below its floor plan In a January 23, 1799, letter, t he General notified John Tayloe that the Senate confirmed his nomination to be one of two majors in the dragoons in the Provisional Army that President Adams asked the General to raise to deter French aggression. He also recalled that in late 1797, Tayloe had expressed interest in buying "Jack Asses when I shd be disposed to part with any." The General offered him "three for $800, and one for $300." He added that "Ready money would be very convenient to me, as my buildings in the City call for it...." In his reply sent on February 10, Tayloe worried that becoming an officer would force him to vacate his seat in the Virginia senate. He added that "respecting the Jack," his father-in-law gave him "a very fine one—consequently my wants on tha...