an ardent desire so far as is within the compass of my abilities, to Conduce to the prosperity of the United States, as administered, by the present Executive, I hope will excuse the freedom, taken in addressing you on the present occasion. as the death of Genl Peter Mughlenburg, has left this port without a collector, & understanding that Genl John Steel is an applicant, with great deferance I beg leave to Recommend him to fill that vacancy, living upon the spot. I have had an opportunity of having several persons proposed as Genl Mughlenburgs Successor & am happy to assert that none would give more general Satisfaction than G. J Steel, a man of the most unimpeachable Character of extensive information & Active abilities. he may be properly called a Revolutionary Character having entered the army in 1776 & Continued in it till the termination of the war in 83 these are facts I am bold to [. . .] his political enemies can not contradict, Mr Steels labours under a great disadvantage in not being honored with a personal acquaintance with your Excellency this much I have taken the liberty of Saying in Commendation of a meritorious Character, Resting perfectly Satisfied as the Result, with Sentiment of High Respect I am

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