1To George Washington from William North, 20 May 1789 (Washington Papers)
Fearful of intruding on Your Excellencys time, more valuable at present, if possible, than ever: I should have waited in silence until my merits had been sufficient to bring me forward, were I not informed that Your Excellency would not be displeased with applications from those who wished to serve the Public. For this Purpose, I offer myself to your Excellencys Notice—If I have abilities,...