To James Madison from Benjamin Waterhouse, 1 May 1813
From Benjamin Waterhouse
Boston 1st. of May 1813
Sir,
By the advice of some of my most revered friends, coinciding with my own inclination, I am induced to petition the President of the United-States for the place of Treasurer of the Mint, made vacant by the death of Dr. Benjamin Rush.
The attention which I have paid to Mineralogy, and to the Docimastic Art,1 may be considered as a desirable qualification for such an office; and the wish which I have to change my residence from Boston to Philadelphia, may be considered as offering a situation more convenient for serving my country, in any additional office, to which I may be called. With the highest degree of respect I am &c2
Benjamin Waterhouse
RC and enclosure (DLC). RC docketed by JM. For enclosure, see n. 2.
1. Docimasy: “the art or practice of assaying metallic ores” (, 2d ed.).
2. The enclosure (1 p.) is a petition dated 28 Apr. 1813 with sixteen signatures, including those of Benjamin Austin, John Brazer, Perez Morton, and Henry A. S. Dearborn, stating the signers’ “high opinion of the abilities, learning, professional knowledge & integrity of Dr. Benjamin Waterhouse” and “recommending him … for any office, in which the before-mentioned qualities are requisite, & which may comport with his years & rank in Society.”