1To George Washington from Ezekiel L. Bascom, 22 February 1799 (Washington Papers)
Permit one of the sons of Columbia to state his situation, and if consistent to ask your patronage. I have a desire to enter some business under Government, either of a civil or military nature, where, by assiduity and attention, I may obtain a handsome support. To the flowers of language and politeness I do not pretend. I shall write that simplicity of style, in which my Father has instructed...