To Thomas Jefferson from Hore Browse Trist, 2 June 1804
From Hore Browse Trist
New Orleans 2 June 1804—
Sir,
I with great pleasure add my opinion to those already transmitted in relation to the very respectable rank which Doctor Oliver H Spencer holds in this City. With acknowledged skill, an extensive & encreasing practice in his profession for three years has doubtless given him a general knowledge of the diseases incidental to this Climate, & his Moral Character has secured to him the confidence & esteem of the community with which he is acquainted—Should it be thought proper to confer on him the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Dr Carmichael, I entertain a belief that he will execute the Trust with honor to himself & satisfaction to the Troops, & that he will add support to the Republican cause among our new brethren—
With perfect respect I am your mo: Obedt. Servt
Hore Browse Trist
RC (DNA: RG 59, LAR); at foot of text: “The President U.S.”; endorsed by TJ as received 4 July and “Doctr. Spence.”
For earlier recommendations of Oliver H. spencer, see Vol. 37:69-70. Writing to Dearborn on 20 May, William C. C. Claiborne enclosed a recommendation of Spencer from the U.S. Army officers at New Orleans and praised his experience and “Excellent character” (, 2:153).
John F. carmichael resigned his commission as army surgeon in a 31 May letter to Dearborn (Dearborn to Carmichael, 5 July, DNA: RG 107, LSMA).