I am not familiar with the book *The Mormon Question* and would be interested in further information on the author's basis for her conclusion that Jefferson was *liberal* on divorce. As Ms. Heckscher points out, there was no Virginia precedent for divorce. So naturally, the committee's task (most of the work was done by Jefferson and Wythe) to cull from the precedents the laws that would survive for the new Commonwealth would reflect that divorce was not an option. But the author must be referring to the Blair marriage and the notorious legal wrangling in Williamsburg. The details are outlined by Dewey in *Thomas Jefferson Lawyer.* Jefferson was retained by Dr. Blair (along with Edmund Pendleton) in November 1772. Kitty Blair was represented by Patrick Henry. Jefferson did his research (probably at Monticello) on the possible grounds that could be presented to the General Assembly for divorce. His notes are reproduced in full by Dewey. But Dr. Blair died in December and the battle then shifted to a claim by Kitty for dower which she received in a defeat for Pendleton who argued the case. Jefferson's notes can also be accessed at http://www.jstor.org/pss/1923425. Richard E. Dixon Editor, Jefferson Notes Thomas Jefferson Heritage Society 4122 Leonard Drive Fairfax, Va 22030 703-691-0770 fax 703-691-0978 ______________________________________ To subscribe, change options, or unsubscribe please see the instructions at http://listlva.lib.va.us/archives/va-hist.html