[Address panel, center:] [undecipherable] Samuel Hodgdon Esq^r. Philadelphia [Docket endorsement, upper right, written diagonally:] [undecipherable] Williams Springfield May 22^d [undecipherable] [Stamp: Received from State Dep't. Nov. 24, 1894. R.P.O. 401310.] Sir Springfield May 22^d 1800 M^r. [undecipherable: Pourcherpe] with his Family are leaving this place for Philadelphia, in expectation of finding some employ, that may afford them the necessaries of life — Their truly destitute and distressing situation [undecipherable] pathy of every feeling Heart. I believe him an honest Man & well attached to the Government of this Country — and may be usefully employed in a Public Store — If it is in your power Sir, to give him any employ this way — it will render him & his Family a singular kindness — & be acknowledged with Heartfelt gratitude. Your well known Philanthropy, is my apology for the liberty I take in thus bringing him to your notice. I am Sir with the utmost respect Your Obedient Servant Joseph Williams Samuel Hodgdon Esq^r.