To Thomas Jefferson from John Harvie, 28 September 1802
From John Harvie
Belvedere Sptr 28th 1802
D Sir
My Old friend Mr William Mitchell one of the most Respectable Merchants in Richmond has Introduced to me this Morning his Nephew Francis Mitchell, for whom he is very desirous of Obtaining the Appointment of a Midshipman on Board the Navy, this is the Young mans Choice for his pursuit in life, I am told he is of Regular Conduct & of an Active Enterprizing Spirit
I Write this under a Raw lingering fever which has prevented me this Fall from paying you my Annual Visit at Monticello, believe me to be Ever with the most Respectful Regard
My Dr Sir yr Ob Servt
Jn Harvie
RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); endorsed by TJ as received 5 Oct. and so recorded in SJL; also endorsed by TJ: “direct to mr Francis Mitchell at Richmd.”
Harvie’s most recent letter to TJ, dated 9 Feb. 1802, was recorded in SJL as received 13 Feb. but has not been found.
For another recommendation of FRANCIS MITCHELL, see George Divers to TJ, 20 Sep.