Washington, George (1732-1799) to Henry Knox
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02857 Author/Creator: Washington, George (1732-1799) Place Written: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 22 July 1791 Pagination: 1 p. + docket 25 x 21 cm Order a Copy
Seeks an evaluation of Joseph Habersham, in order to find an appropriate federal appointment for him. Washington also asks advice on the law abilities of John Houstoun, for a possible appointment to Associate Judge for the Supreme Court. Marked confidential. Written as President to Secretary of War Knox.
Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
Philadelphia July 22d 1791
Dear Sir, (Confidential)
If, without disclosing the object in the smallest degree, you can come at (from Mr. William Houston or through any other channel [inserted: by the time you return]) the rate of abilities possessed by Colo. (Joseph) Habersham - to what they would most usefully apply - whether he is a man of arrangement - of Industry, &ca. you would oblige me in making the enquiry. I wish also to be informed, if the means of accomplishing it should be within your reach [inserted: of] the law abilities and knowledge generally of Mr. John Houston, in case circumstances might envite me to look to that quarter for an Associate Judge for the Supreme Court of the United States.
Yours sincerely
Go: Washington
Genl Knox
[address leaf:]
Private
Majr. Genl. Knox.
[Docket]
July 1791
Confidential
The President of the
U.S.
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