[Endorsed: Hon^ble James McHenry Secretary of War — Samuel Asmin — April 1800] April 1^st 1800 Sir In expectation that the time has arrived when some arrangement will take place relative to the wages of Clerks in the Office, I have taken the liberty to mention a few particulars with respect to myself— Perhaps it is not unknown to you that I have been unfortunate— true it is, Sir that I have experienced an adverse providence— but as true that I hold fast my integrity— I have only to lament that it is not with me as in times past; not so much on my own account as on theirs and in an especial manner for our Children of which I am the only surviving Parent, it is for the sake of them, & to fulfil some their engagements that I now address you Sir, requesting that you will be pleased to consider me and grant whatever you consistently can for the services I shall render; since I came to the Office I have not in any one particular; knowingly neglected my duty, but have conscientiously endeavoured to discharge them, if at any time I have come short, I hope it will be imputed to my unacquaintedness with the business, I trust that in a little time more unremitted attention I shall be able to discharge them to satisfaction— for your perusal Sir I have enclosed two letters which will shew the Character I have hitherto sustained, & still bear among my acquaintances, after reading please to let me have them to answer the purpose for which they were intended. I hope Sir you will pardon me for the liberty I have taken in thus addressing you. I rely on your goodness. With perfect respect I am Sir your most Obt. humble Serv^t Samuel Asmin Hon^ble James McHenry Esquire