January 31, 1790

Talbot, Silas, 1751-1813

Autograph letter

Title: to George Washington

A copy of Talbot's letter to Washington, which Talbot is now forwarding to Henry Knox (see GLC02437.04490). Applies to Washington to his "being again employed in some public service in case any should offer, in which I might be thought adequate to the performance of," and hopes in particular to obtain the position of Harbor Master of New York City, as "new arrangements will probably take place in some or all of the principal Harbours in the United States ... " Notes he can forward letters from General's [John] Sullivan and [Horatio] Gates attesting to his abilities and character. Noted as a…

GLC02437.04491

3 July 1799

Talbot, Silas, 1751-1813

Autograph letter signed

Title: to John Adams

Talbot thanks President Adams for receiving the commission of Captain of the Navy and "also another to Cotton Thayer as Second Lt. of Marines." Talbot has difficulty accepting this commission because he fears he will be a junior officer to someone who does not deserve to be ranked ahead of him, citing [John] Barry, [Samuel] Nicolson, and [Thomas] Truxton. "I consider a commission only as a certificate or evidence of an appointment, why then have I not untill this day been furnished with the Evidence of my first appointment under the present Government as well, or instead of the Letter."…

GLC02437.07279

January 31, 1790

Talbot, Silas, 1751-1813

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Forwards (not included) copies of papers and a letter (see GLC02437.04491) he sent to the President, George Washington, for Knox to look at. Also asks Knox for his support in his application for a position. Writes, "...being convinced that a word from you to him [the President] in due season will have a powerful effect on his mind and in my favor..."

GLC02437.04490

20 December 1787

Talbot, Silas, 1751-1813

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Thanks him for the information from Monsieur La Forest about his sons, who were in France for their education (see GLC02437.03714 for a related letter). Laments that he did not meet up with La Forest when he was in New York and discusses paying the bills for his sons board and education in France. Asks Knox to help him get the money to the Intendant of Normandy, who has advanced the sums needed to accommodate Talbot's sons.

GLC02437.03731

6 July 1799

Talbot, Silas, 1751-1813

Autograph letter signed

Title: to Henry Knox

Talbot tells Knox that he has written President Adams to say he has returned his commission and expects to leave the Frigate Constitution. He has therefore antedated the certificate (probably Henry Jackson Knox Jr's appointment) which he evidently encloses. See GLC02437.07278 and GLC02437.07279 for related items.

GLC02437.07282