To Thomas Jefferson from Edward Smith, 12 March 1806

Understanding that there is a petition, before Congress, the present Session to have this Port, together with Mystic, which is contiguous, and Pawcatuck in the State of Rhode Island made into a District and this to be the Port of Entry Should the Petition be granted the Appointment of a Collector will next follow, It is with real diffidence I write on a Subject wherein myself is concern’d but being a Citizen remote, it is not probable my character is known to you, therefore Pray it may be thought a Sufficient apology for my soliciting to be appointed Collector—as to the propriety, of my solicitation, Generally, humbly beg leave to refer you to Gideon Granger Esq. I have some Acquaintance with Gurdon, S, Mumford member from New York, and the members from Connecticut generally, Bonds requir’d for my faithful performance can be procur’d, should this meet with your approbation and the honour of the Appointment fall on me, I should be greatly gratified. I remain with due respect and Esteem Your Humble Servt.