To Thomas Jefferson from Richard Dinmore, 19 May 1807
Alexandria 19 May 1807
Sir
The partiality of my friends, induces me to submit the enclosed for your Consideration. Should their good opinion, lead you to think so favorably of my Qualifications, as to nominate me to the vacancy occasioned by the death of Mr Beckley, I trust I should conduct the business of the office, to your Satisfaction
Understanding sir, that no time is to be lost, that it is necessary my pretensions should be laid before you this day, I have had but very few hours to procure signatures. The respectability of the Names annexed, will I trust render numbers unnecessary. Had Judge Fitzhugh been in Town, I flatter myself I should have procured his signature, & Mr Jones proposes writing to you this day on the Subject. On your Side of the district, I have many friends. The absence from the City of one Gentleman, now in Ohio & the want of time, however compell me to rest my hopes on the enclosed.
Accept Sir the assurance of the highest esteem and respect of
Your obedt. Servt.
R Dinmore—
DNA: RG 59—LAR—Letters of Application and Recommendation.
Enclosure
18 May 1807
Sir
The office of Librarian to the United States having become vacant by the Death of Mr. Beckley, and it being reported that it is your intention to seperate it from the Clerkship of the House of Representatives;—we take the liberty of soliciting that situation for our friend and Neighbour, Richard Dinmore.—Mr. Dinmore has for some years conducted the republican paper in Alexandria, and of course had to contend with federal persecution,—we believe dureing that period,—party calumny has never attacked his personal Character, and should you Sir deem it expedient to seperate the two offices and accede to our solicitations—we have no doubt, that Mr. Dinmore would to your satisfaction fulfill the duties of Librarian.—We feel regret at our inability to support a republican Paper in Alexandria, but the weight of Property & of Numbers, is so much against him in that Town, that he has been sinking his small Capital for some time & now feels it necessary for the support of his Wife & a large family of Children, to look out for other & more certain means of maintenance,—than can be afforded him by his Newspaper.—
With every sentiment of Respect and Esteem We are Your Obedient Servants.—
Thomson Mason
James H. Blake
Geo. Summers—
Jno Thos Ricketts
A: Faw
Richd Libby