1
13, Reynolds Road,
Old Trafford,
Manchester. 15 May 1916. Sir, I beg most respectfully to offer myself as a
Candidate for an Accountancy Appointment under your
jurisdiction. I am 31 years of age, and married; and was
rejected in November last for Military Service after reference
to an Eyesight Specialist. My defect, however, does not, in the
slightest, impair my efficiency as an Accountant. I respectfully submit an Epitome
of my Qualifications,
Appointments, and Experience, and shall be pleased to furnish
any further information you may desire. I am able to provide excellent credentials
from the
President of the Society of Incorporated Accountants & Auditors, the
City Treasurer of Manchester, and other prominent gentlemen in
the Profession. I would express the hope that my candidature is
commendable to you. I am, Sir,
Your Obedient Servant, Alex. Sharples The Secretary of State
for Ireland.
This letter was written by Alex Sharples (b. 1885), a English accountant. the letter
is addressed to the secretary of state for Ireland. At this time there is no official
chief secretary for Ireland following the resignation of Augustine Birrell (1850-1933)
on 3 May 1916. Birrell's resignation was a consequence of the 1916 Rising for which
he accepted responsibility. His successor, Henry Edward Duke (1855-1939), was not
officially appointed until 31 July 1916.
In the letter Sharples is putting himself forward as a candidate for an accountancy
appointment under the secretary's jurisdiction. Sharples mentioned that he volunteered
for wartime service last November but was rejected following an eyesight examination.
Sharples adds that he will be able to supply excellent credentials from the Society
of Incorporated Accountants & Auditors, the city treasurer of Manchester and other
prominent gentlemen in the profession.