The Bearer of this William Fletcher (Son to William Fletcher an honest & industrious Man and member of the associate Church in this City) has been regularly bred to the Sea and I am well informed is sober and well behaved: He is desirous to enter into the Service of the Navy as a Midshipman, if your Excellency would be pleased to give him a Commission.

For this purpose I now address you whom I highly honour and for whom desire to pray to the great Ruler of Nations to continue you in the exalted Station in which he has plac’d you as a blessing to the united States.

I am <M> may it please your Excellency / your most obedt.