To James Madison from William S. Radcliff, 27 July 1816
From William S. Radcliff
Washington July 27th. 1816.
Sir,
The disagreeable cause of my late resignation is now removed, and I hope that it has not been acted upon finally and conclusively.1 If however it has been accepted may I ask the favor to be indulged with a reappointment as soon as may be convenient. I have the honor to be with the highest respect Your Obt. Servt.
William S. Radcliff.
RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR, 1809–17, filed under “Radcliff”).
1. On 22 July 1816 Radcliff wrote to James Monroe resigning the position of justice of the peace for Washington County, D.C., which JM had appointed him to on 29 Apr. 1816 ( 10:434). He explained that he did so reluctantly but asked that his resignation be accepted immediately “to be consistent with my oath of office.” He also hinted that he might soon be able to request reappointment to the position (DNA: RG 59, LRD). Filed on a separate sheet is an undated note in JM’s hand: “The singularity in this case may merit attention: but it seems proper if not already done, that the acceptance shd. take place.”