To Thomas Jefferson from Thomas Worthington, 12 April 1805
From Thomas Worthington
Chilicothe April 12th 1805
Dear Sir
Soon after I returned I was informed the marshal of this state Major David Zeigler had resigned his office. I am requested by two Gentlemen of this place (Mr Michael Baldwin & Mr Joseph Kerr) to name them to you as candidates for this vacancy. With Mr Baldwin you are acquainted Of Mr Kerr I have only to observe that he is a man of property reputable character and qualified to discharge the duties of the office He is at present a Senator in the State Legislature from the county in which I live Give me leave to refer you to Mr Gallatin who is acquainted with1 this gentleman for further information
I beg Sir you will accept my most sincere wishes that your present term of office may end with accumulated honour to yourself & satisfaction to your country. and that you may live long in the enjoyment of health happiness & the confidence of a grateful country I have nothing important to communicate we are all peace here & as happy as new setlers can be
I am with the most sincere esteem & respect your obt st
T Worthington
RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 26 Apr. and “Baldwin Michael. Kerr Joseph to be Marshal” and so recorded in SJL.
An additional recommendation in favor of Michael Baldwin came from U.S. district judge Charles Willing Byrd. Writing to Madison on 15 Mch., Byrd lauded Baldwin’s merits as a government officer and attorney, and his “demeanour as a man” (RC in DNA: RG 59, LAR; endorsed by TJ: “Baldwin, Michl. Marshal v. Zeigler”).
1. MS: “with with.”