To John Adams from John Baptista Ashe, 9 November 1798
Halifax No C: Novr. 9th. 1798
Sir
I have just now been inform’d of the death of Mr. Rowan, late Commissioner of Loans for this District, and of a desire of Captain Bassett Stith, to succeed him in that office—I therefore Sir, am induc’d, to take the liberty of <of> offering Captain Stith to your notice—and do with great confidence assure you Sir of the competency of Captain Stith as an accountant and whose respectability of Character, as a merchant and Gentleman, will do honor and give dignity to the office—hoping Sir, a favorable reception of this application in favor of Captain Stith, and your pardon for the freedom I take—and that you will accept my Sincere and best wishes for your health and happyness—I rest / Sir / Your Very Obedt / And Very Hble Servant
J. B. Ashe
MHi: Adams Papers.