Thomas Jefferson Papers

Thomas Jefferson to Paul Hamilton, 21 December 1812

To Paul Hamilton

Monticello Dec. 21. 12.

Dear Sir

With mr Thompson the bearer hereof I am entirely unacquainted personally, but am very intimately so with mr Fry, the writer of the inclosed letter, a man of extreme worth & too conscientious to recommend any person whose merit is not unquestionable. in asking faith to his testimony I do all which I can do justifiably to myself, and which my respect for you will permit. and indeed I owe many apologies to you for the frequency of these applications which it is often impossible for me to decline. I must throw myself on your indulgence & your knolege of the difficulty of avoiding these compliances, & pray you to accept the assurance of my perfect esteem & consideration.

Th: Jefferson

RC (PWacD: Sol Feinstone Collection, on deposit PPAmP); at foot of text: “The Secretary of the Navy.” PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ. Enclosure not found.

Index Entries

  • Fry, Mr.; recommends Thompson search
  • Hamilton, Paul (1762–1816); and patronage recommendations search
  • Hamilton, Paul (1762–1816); letters to search
  • Jefferson, Thomas; Correspondence; letters of application and recommendation from search
  • patronage; letters of application and recommendation from TJ search
  • Thompson, Mr.; and naval appointment search