John Pittman to Thomas Jefferson, 1 May 1805
From John Pittman
Alexandria May 1st: 1805
Sir,
The communication which your Excellency was pleased to address to me under date of the 27th. I had the honor to receive two days afterwards. While it cannot fail to be a cause of regret to those who petitioned for the removal of Colonel Peyton from his command, that their undertaking has proved ineffectual; I indulge a hope, that, with me, they will yield a prompt acquiescence to your decision.
I pray you to accept assurances of the consideration & Respect with which, I am your Excellency’s very Obedient
John Pittman
RC (DLC); at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson Esqr. President of the U. States”; endorsed by TJ as received 2 May and so recorded in SJL.
Francis Peyton resigned as commandant of the second legion of the D.C. militia, leading to the appointment of John McKinney, whom Pittman and others had recommended when seeking Peyton’s removal (Dearborn to TJ, 7 Dec. 1804 and 19 June 1805).