To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 19 November 1802
From Robert Smith
Nav Dep
19 Nov 1802
Sir!
I have the Navy Estimates for the ensuing year, prepared in detail, but can not state the aggregate, until it shall be determined how many vessels are to be kept in actual service—on this point therefore I beg leave to request instructions from you.
With the highest respect & esteem I have the Honor to be Sir, your mo ob St.
Rt Smith
RC (DLC); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 19 Nov. and “force in Mediterranean. estimate” and so recorded in SJL. FC (Lb in DNA: RG 45, LSP).