To George Washington from George Taylor, Jr., 17 March 1792
From George Taylor, Jr.
Philadelphia March 17th 1792.
Sir,
Being much flattered by the confidence reposed in me by you, while I was employed in your recording Secretary’s Office, and the notice you have honored me with since that period, permit me to enclose the copy of a letter I have just now written to Mr Jefferson, and as far as may be consistent, to solicit the favor of your Influence and Support, in obtaining the object of it.1 I have the honor to be with the most profound respect, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble servant
Geo. Taylor Jr
ALS, DNA: RG 59, Miscellaneous Letters.
1. In the enclosed copy of the letter of application for the chief clerkship of the State Department that Taylor wrote to Thomas Jefferson on this date, he states:
“1st That in the years 1779, –80, and part of –81, I served as an Assist. Quarter master in the State of New York.
“2. That in 1781 and part of –82 I served as principal Assistant to the Agent of that State.
“3. That in 1782—and –83 I served as a Clerk to the recording Secy to His Excellency General Washington, and had the honor to be made choice of by the General in a letter to him, which he shewed me, as the person, out of the 3 then for some time employed, who alone should record his own private letters; letters the matter of which at this day I conceive to be secrets of high importance.
“4th That I have had the honor to be appointed a Clerk in the office of your predecessor, Mr [John] Jay, upwards of 7 years ago—and that of being continued by you, on his recommendation.
“To the above I would beg leave to add that I have studiously endeavored to qualify myself for executing the duties of the Office with accuracy & dispatch, and that I have found my salary an inadequate support for my family” (DNA: RG 59, Miscellaneous Letters). Taylor received the desired appointment on 1 April.