[George Washington Esq^r. President of the United States of America A. D. [undecipherable] [undecipherable] 10 P[undecipherable]] Baltimore 17 April 1789. Dear Sir, Knowing that your short stay in this place would be chiefly [strikethrough: [undecipherable]] on matter of ceremony, I have ventured to commit to writing some requests in favor of my friends, rather than trouble you with a conversation on the subject. M^r. Robert Purviance is a worthy citizen, and held in universal esteem. He has met with some misfortunes, as you will see by the letter I have taken the liberty to annex. In a few months he and his family, from being one of the most opulent in this town, will be one of the poorest and most distress'd unless your goodness will interpose. He is well qualified for any trust in the customs which it is likely [strikethrough: [undecipherable]] be cast into departments. His nephew whom he mentions has had a liberal education, has travelled, speaks French, and draws a small salary [strikethrough: he] receives as writer to a merchant with two [undecipherable] letters. He is well qualified for an assistant in any of the great [undecipherable] offices of State. Captain Barney is well known. He has a genius for the sea to which he has been regularly bred, is old in commission, and has courage and conduct agreeable to any undertaking. Perhaps markets will be established, or some cruisers to prevent smuggling. If he can be engaged in the revenue [undecipherable] of which he is most desirous, the United States will not probably a better or more faithful or more meritorious officer. Col. Ballard tells me that he has already applied and stated his case. If the request he has made can be granted I am persuaded by two things — that he is [undecipherable] to the honour of the office he solicits, and that he will execute it faithfully. I would these persons be found acceptable I can offer [undecipherable] that it will give great joy to the federalists of this town. We [undecipherable] in this place owe much to them and their friends. I have one other recommendation which I hope [to] deposit with you. When the inferior federal courts are organized, I shall return it as a favor done to myself, if you will consider [undecipherable] John Caldwell, of [undecipherable], and my brother in law, as a candidate for the United States attorney to the inferior federal court of this State. I mean this office as more honorable than pecuniary, and pledge myself for his talents, prudence and integrity. [strikethrough: May all [undecipherable] blessings [undecipherable] upon you, and [undecipherable] the people] happily and [undecipherable] of human [undecipherable] stability. If I have any wish for myself, it is that you will sometimes condescend to remember one who is most affectionately and sincerely devoted. [undecipherable] July 3^th your ob[undecipherable] [undecipherable: probable reading: James McHenry]