To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 17 February 1808
Navy Department 17 Feby. 1808
Sir,
By the XLIst art. of the “Act for the better government of the Navy of the U. States” it appears that all sentences of courts martial going to the dismission of a Commissioned or Warrant officer, must, before they can be carried into execution, be approved by the President of the United States.
I have the honor to be with great respect Sir Yr ob svt.
Rt Smith
DLC: Papers of Thomas Jefferson.