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Penciled at top of page:] Foxcroft

Portland Jan.y 18. 1812

Hon: Wm. King Esqr.

Dear Sir, [underlined]

Do prevail upon Mr. Ripley to accept the appointment of Chief Justice of our D. Court. You realize the importance of its cast whether Repub. or Fedr. - You cannot be denied though sicophancy should prevail on a few weak republicans to lend their names in support of a federal candidate. -

The 2d. Parish in Portland has a petition before yr. house & they will take it kind in you to afford it your aid. Mr. Ripley has the care of it.

I am your friend, but frequent troubler

Joseph E. Foxcroft [all underlined]