Thomas Jefferson Papers
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https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Jefferson/01-43-02-0357

To Thomas Jefferson from Wilson Cary Nicholas, 22 May 1804

From Wilson Cary Nicholas

Norfolk May 22d. 1804

My Dear Sir

I arrived here on friday last, after all the information I have been able to collect I have determined to accept the place of collector of this port. I have had very great doubts whether I ought to do it, or not, there are strong reasons why I shou’d not, but it seems to be thought, by the republicans that I shou’d be able to do some service to the cause and I am sure if I do not, you wou’d be subjected to the solicitations of a great number of people who want the office. these considerations have determined me against my own judgement, as to what my personal interest wou’d dictate. I shall immediately enter upon the discharge of the duties of the office, and by the next mail make the necessary communications to the treasury department. I have only time to assure of the high sense that I entertain of the obligations that I am under to you and that I am your devoted

W. C. Nicholas

RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 26 May and so recorded in SJL.

people who want the office: on 7 May, Littleton W. Tazewell wrote to Nicholas asking “for any assistance” he could provide in bringing Tazewell’s name before the president regarding the collectorship. Tazewell urged that measures “must be taken quickly—The number of applicants will probably be numerous” (RC in MHi). In December 1803, Tazewell had written to Madison soliciting the appointment. Francis S. Taylor of Norfolk also sought the collectorship, noting that he “could get the recommendation of every Merchant in the Borough” (Madison, Papers, Sec. of State Ser. description begins William T. Hutchinson, Robert A. Rutland, J. C. A. Stagg, and others, eds., The Papers of James Madison, Chicago and Charlottesville, 1962- , 39 vols.; Sec. of State Ser., 1986- , 11 vols.; Pres. Ser., 1984- , 8 vols.; Ret. Ser., 2009- , 3 vols. description ends , 6:220-1, 314; 7:243).

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