To Thomas Jefferson from Bate Dyke, 12 May 1801
From Bate Dyke
New York May 12 1801
Sir
Pardon the Intrusion of an Emigrant from England in Ship Mary from Bristol (first time of my being at Sea) I Was Sitting Across the Helm the Ship Labouring With A Contrary Wind An Idea Imediately Struk mee With A Plan to Steer A Ship Against the Winds Eye (O that I may Steer my Course through Life in thoughts Words & Actions his the Ardent Desire of A Sinfull Mortal in the Midst of Strangers) Sir if this his Deserving of Your Notice I Am Personaly Y[ours to] Command
Bate Dyke
At Allexander Kemptons No. 105: Maiden Lane
PS Landed here on Lords Day Last
RC (DLC); torn; endorsed by TJ as received [16 May] and so recorded in SJL.