From Thomas Jefferson to Benjamin Bankson, [5 April 1792]
To Benjamin Bankson
Philadelp[hia 5 Apr. 1792]
Sir
The vacancy in my office, [which is the subje]ct of your letter of this morning, was given three [days] ago to a Doctr. Pfeiffer, who is now at work in the office; and the business not requiring any additional aid it is not in my power to avail myself of the offer of service you have been pleased to make.-I am Sir your very humble servt,
Th: Jefferson
PrC (DLC); mutilated.
This letter was in response to one written the same day by Bankson applying for the vacancy created by the appointment of Taylor to succeed Remsen as chief clerk and enclosing a copy of an affidavit from Charles Thomson, 22 July 1789, certifying that Bankson was employed in his office from Aug. 1781 to 8 May 1789, and giving his “warmest Commendation” (RC in DLC: Washington Papers; endorsed by TJ as received 5 Apr. 1792 and so recorded in SJL). Also enclosed in Bankson’s letter was one from James Monroe, 4 Apr. 1792, recommending Bankson and recorded in SJL as received 5 Apr. 1792, but it has not been found.