To James Madison from Henry Hiort, 17 November 1807

Having presented myself to the President of The United States, as a Candidate for The Office of Marshall of This District (Mr. Brent having notified his intended resignation) I presume likewise to intrude on your goodness, for influence and interest in my f[avor], if you should not think the request too great a presumption on my part. Dr. Willis is unfortunately at a distance from this, or, were he here, a fifteen years knowledge of me as his Brother in Law, would induce him to spare me the liberty I am now taking, which relying on your politeness to Pardon, I beg leave to subscribe myself with great respect Sir Your most obdt. & very hble Servt.