paid Brig Gen Henry Jackson Boston [blotch / illegible]1771 John [illegible] XXVII-102 Newbury [?] Jan 14 1791 5616 Sir John Tracey Since you was in town, I have maturely considered the Subject of our Conversation respecting my applying for the place of Inspector for the District of Massachusetts and I find I am the oldest inspecting Officer of the Militia in the State, which if my Abilities & Character are sufficient give me Pretensions, that in Addition to the loss of my property in Consequence of the late Revolution, I think will have Weight – Organizing, inspecting and reviewing the Militia has been my Duty and study the last four years of my life & I flatter myself I have [?] with Twenty and [illegible], and upon Enquiry of the Officers of this Division you will find it so – I do not pretend to vie with those who have been on a continental Establishment, but I put myself equal to any of my Brothers in the line that I am in – I am writing W Dalton and have to request of you Dear Sir, to write as soon as Convenience will admit to your friend the Secretary of war upon the Subject and if you please request him to recommend me to the President of the United States. Relying on your friendship & assistance am Sir with respect & esteem Your most obedient & Humble Servant John Tracey