To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 14 November 1804
From Robert Smith
Nov. 14. 1804.
Sir,
I have this morning received a letter from Balt stating that Mr. Pinkney is determined to remain at Balt and to prosecute the practice of the Law. He is poor with a large family and he must make some provision for them. He means, it is said, to devote himself to his profession and to keep aloof from politicks. & from Publick employment—
Respectfully Y. H. S.
Rt Smith
RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 14 Nov. and “Pinckney” and so recorded in SJL.
In a letter of 3 Aug., TJ asked Smith to determine if William Pinkney would accept a judicial appointment in Orleans Territory.