Washington March 4. 1822

Dear Sir

		I have not interferd in the appointment of any of the clerks, in the several departments, nor do I know that any clerk was ever appointed at my suggestion. I have felt I expressed anxiety only that the appointment should be confined to native citizens, so far as it might be done with advantage, well knowing how general the complaint was of a departure from that rule, & of its ill effect.
	I hear that a law will probably pass authorizing the appointment of several additional clerks in the land office. Should that be the case, it would be very gratifying to me, if two persons, the author of the enclosed letter, Mr Randolph, & a Mr Alexander, could be provided for, provided on strict inquiry, they should be found to possess the requisite qualifications for the offices to be filled. Mr Randolph, writes as this letter will shew, [word struck out] a fair hand, and I have reason to believe ^that he is a young man of correct deportment. He is the ^nephew son of the Governor of Virga. Mr Alexander is also an estimable youth, well connected, & educated, with a mother in advanced years depending on him. I leave it to you to mention my name to Mr Meigs or not as you may think it most advisable.
				I am dear sir very sincerely yours
						James Monroe