To George Washington from David Lenox, 5 December 1793
From David Lenox
Philadelphia 5th Decemr 1793
Sir
I feel myself in a very delicate situation respecting the subject on which I am about to address you.
The Death of Mr Thomas Smith has made a vacancy in an Office to which I conceive my abilities equal & for which I beg leave to apply.1
I declare to you Sir that I think the Appointment with which you have favored me equally honorable,2 but there are circumstances which to me would make a change very agreeable. Should I be so fortunate as to succeed to my wishes, my best endeavours shall not be wanting to execute the Duties of the Office with justice to the Public & reputation to myself. I have the honor to be With every sentiment of Respect Sir Your Most Obedt Servt
D. Lenox
ALS, DLC:GW.
1. Thomas Smith, commissioner of loans for Pennsylvania, died on 3 December. Other applicants for his position included Matthew Clarkson, who wrote GW on 4 Dec. (DLC:GW), Jonathan Smith, for whom Richard Peters wrote on 5 Dec., and William Nichols, who wrote on 6 Dec. (DLC:GW), but GW nominated Stephen Moylan for the post on 5 December.
2. Lenox had been appointed U.S. marshal for Pennsylvania in early October. His nomination was sent to the Senate on 27 Dec. and confirmed on 30 Dec. (, 142–44).