To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 14 July 1803
From Robert Smith
navy Department
July 14—1803
Sir,
I enclose a blank warrant for your signature to be filled with the name of Joseph Nicholson as midshipman should you approve it—He is son of Capn. S. Nicholson of Boston, and is recommended by Commodore Preble—
I have the honor to be with much respect Sir yr. obt. Serv.
Rt Smith
RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 15 July and “Nicholson. midshipman.” FC (Lb in DNA: RG 45, LSP).
Upon receiving his warrant, joseph nicholson was assigned to duty on the frigate Constitution (, Register, 40).