1Gabriel Penn to Thomas Jefferson, 3 October 1814 (Jefferson Papers)
Although not having the pleasure of your personal acquaintance I presume you will pass over the liberty I have taken to of writing to you when you know the object. It has long been my desire to enter the service of my country and for that end went to sea in the merchant service since the war I have been in an armed Vessel. The object of this letter is to solicit your Friendship in procuring...