Percieving that Col. Smith you have been pleased to appoint Col. Smith a Supervisor for this District,1 I conclude that on his acceptance of that place, another the office of Marshall will be conferred on some other person. It is probable that Several Candidates, will offer, and [illegible] I take the Liberty of availing myself of your [Permission?] to communicating my Sentiments respecting a Gentleman who Backwardness too delicate to display his own merit, possesses more than falls to the Share of many— I mean General Matthew Clarkson. I think him one of the most pure & virtuous Men I know— When at Boston General Lincoln (whose aid he was) spoke to me of him in Terms not only of approbation but affection— During the war he was a firm & active Whig, and since the Peace a ^constant^ Friend to National and good Government. Few men ^here^ of his Standing enjoy more ^or deserve^ a greater Degree of the Regard ^Esteem & good will^ of the Citizens here than he does, and in my opinion and is he would discharge the Duties of that or any office ^for wh. he may be qualified^ with Propriety and Honor— Be pleased to present my Respectful Compt. to Mrs. Washington, & permit me to assure you of the perfect Respect Esteem & Attachmt. with which I am Dr Sr. your obliged & obt. Servt.2