The reverend Wm. Dawson of this Place, is desirous to obtain from the Government, the office of Chaplain to one of the regiments; & wishes me to write you a Letter in his favour. Knowing how much you are engaged in the most arduous Duties, I have taken the liberty, as it relates to you, with reluctance: you can, however, at once turn over the letter to the proper Department.

I have known Mr. Dawson many years, & beleive him to be a man of unimpeachable moral character: He is of the Baptist persuasion, & strongly partakes of that love of liberty which characterises the society of which he is a member: He has long been a staunch friend of republicanism, & the principles of the present administration: He has also grown in years, has a family to support, & is rather needy; so that the office he solicits wd. be useful to him; and I do suppose him to be competent to discharge the duties thereof. With sentiments of the utmost Consideration & respect, I have the Honour to be, Sir, yr. mo: obt. Servt.