Understanding that Major Swan has resigned the Office of Pay Master General to the Army, to take place at the end of the present quarter, I have presumed to address you as a Candidate for that appointment—Having acted as Pay Master to the Marine Corps for eight years, and discharged the duties of that Office to the satisfaction of all above me, I trust I shall be found competent to that of the Pay Master General—Authorized to refer, to the Honorable the Secretary of the Navy, the Comptroller & Accountant of the Navy, for my general Character and capability, I have not troubled you with Letters recommendatory, supposing the appointment will not be made before your return to Washington

I have the honor to be Most respectfully Sir your Obd Servt