To James Madison from Jared Mansfield, 26 November 1816
From Jared Mansfield
West. Point Novemr. 26th. 1816
Sir,
Understanding, that Daniel Symmes Esq. Register of the Land Office in Cincinnati is about to resign that place, & that his brother Mr Peyton S. Symmes is a Candidate for succeeding him, I beg leave to offer my testimony in favour of the appointment of this Gentleman.1
While acting as Surveyor General, I had the means of knowing his youthful character; It was promissing in the highest degree; distinguished by extraordinary natural endowments, a fine education, & correct moral conduct. By my Friends, I have since learned, that his subsequent, & more mature character has exhibitted the finest assemblage of talents, & virtues. That he is well qualified to perform the duties of the Office, there can be no doubt, since he has acted in it, & I believe done all its business, for more than 3 years. I beg leave to recommend to Your Excellency, for that place, Mr Symmes, as one who is not only competent to fill, but to adorn it, or even a much higher situation. I am with the most profound respect Your Obt. Humle. Sert
Jared Mansfield
Profr. of M. Phil. M.A.
RC (DLC). Docketed by JM.
1. JM nominated Peyton Symmes to the vacancy on 2 Jan. 1817 ( , 3:68).