Although perhaps unknown to you, I, nevertheless, dare to send you this letter, with the hope that a renowned and educated man such as yourself will approve of my undertaking. I am currently obliged to write a life of the most illustrious leader and president George Washington for the use of classical scholars in our American federation. A work of this sort (unless I am much mistaken) is very necessary, because reading about the lives of famous men inspires virtue and the performance of outstanding deeds. Besides, current events, or those of the recent past, often capture the imagination of young people more than those obscured by antiquity. Such a history written in Latin (provided it is treated skillfully) will contribute greatly to our nation’s reputation for learning and literature. I prefer to leave to the judgment of others how well the life of this hero has been written in the past rather than insert such comments here. It will not now be inappropriate to say a few things about myself: I am Irish. Because of the injustice of its rulers, my father did not hesitate to flee his native land and immigrate to this country. He died in Philadelphia. I taught the Greek, Latin, and French languages for fifteen years in Pennsylvania before coming to this state. Soon after my arrival, I was stricken with tertian fever and reduced to extreme want. I have six children, whom I have struggled mightily to support. Although the necessities of life are inexpensive here, learning is completely neglected. I long to return to Philadelphia but, on account of my financial distress, I am compelled to remain in this place. Throughout my life I have done nothing but educate young people. In consequence, I cannot easily apply either my mind or body to rustic work. If some Maecenas could be found to serve as my patron for completing the life of the illustrious Washington and offer me sufficient help to sustain my family, I will have received an answer to my greatest prayer. Terrible poverty prevents me from finishing this work. Three months will suffice to complete it. I desire nothing more than what will support my family during that period. If you wish to see a copy of this biography, it will be my very great pleasure to send you the portion I have already written. If necessary, I can also furnish many proofs of my learning and character. I humbly beg you to pardon the presumptuousness of this letter. I am compelled to seek your indulgence, too, for the carelessness with which it has been written. I have not yet fully recovered from my long illness. Please forgive, therefore, my many errors and show me your favor.