When You appointed me your Private Secretary You honored me very unexpectedly, & altho’ it was a flattering distinction, I sincerely confess it was not without some reluctance, for the reason hereafter mentioned, that I accepted the Appointment. Shortly before, the Directors of the Bank of the United States committed to my Charge their Law and Notarial Business, the duties of which combined with those of my profession, I apprehended would not well accord with those of the Secretaryship; but Young & sanguine I undertook the important task of performing the Duties of each Appointment, hoping by industry & perseverance to accomplish, what on mature reflection & after the greatest exertion I find to be impracticable.— By reason of a considerable Access of Law and Notarial Business, notwithstanding an economist of time, I found my duties too weighty, & concluded to resign my Secretaryship Immediately on the rising of the Legislature, a measure at that time I was induced to relinquish, tho’ with great reluctance, through the persuasion of my Friends.—

On retiring from the Office duty and still more strongly inclination commands me to express my most grateful Acknowledgments for the Appointment—for that indulgence & Aid You have so chearfully afforded me, & attention with which You have honored me—and also for that testimonial you have been pleased to grant me of your approbation of my Character & Conduct, which, coming from Your Excellency, I esteem truly valuable.—

The good opinion, Sir, you entertain of me I shall make it my study to cherish, & to evince my Gratitude whenever Occasions shall present.—1 I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Obliged & Most Obt. Servt.