Colo. Harrison who has acted as my Secretary since the beginning of 1776 has accepted an honorable & profitable Civil appointment in the State of Maryland and is gone to enjoy it. The circle of my acquaintanc[e] does not furnish a character that would be more pleasing to me as a successor to him than yours; I make you the first offer therefore of the vacant Office & should be happy on your acceptance of it.

The pay is one hundred dollars pr Month—the Rations that of a Lieutt Colonel in the Army—(which, in fact, is additional; as the value thereof is received in money)—No perquisites appertain to the Office—The Secretary lives as I do—is at little expence while he is in my family, or when absent on my business—and is in the highest confidence & estimation from the nature of his Office.

I mention these things for your information and shall be happy in a speedy & favourable answer. being with great esteem & Regard Dr Sir Yr.