1To George Washington from John Marshall, 14 October 1789 (Washington Papers)
Not having been in Richmond when your Excellencys letter arriv’d, enclosing me a commission as Attorney for the United States in the Virginia district, I coud not, sooner, acknowlege the receit of it. I thank you sir very sincerely for the honor which I feel is done me by an appointment flowing from your choice, & I beg leave to declare that it is with real regret I decline accepting an office...