Thomas Macdonough letter dated
June 21st, 1824

Navy Yard, New York
June 21st 1824
Sir,
The bearer Mr. Moses M. Wilson is
desirous of attaining the appointment of
midshipman and has testimonials from many
respectable patrons in relation to his charac-
ter etc. which he will have the honour
to lay before you. I myself have no
personal knowledge of Mr. Wilsons ability
for the appointment he is desirous of, but
presume he would become a valuable
officer.
I have the honour to be
very respectfully
sir, your ob[edient] servant
T Macdonough

Hon[ora]ble Samuel L Southard
Secretary of the Navy
Washington