251To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 31 August 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
On making out Capt. Barron’s orders I find that we are without your signature to any of the printed instructions to the commanders of our armed vessels, I have therefore the honor to enclose twelve copies, & to ask that you will be pleased to Sign & return them by the next Mail— Capt. Barron is hauling out of the Eastern Branch, & will have dropped down to Hampton Road before these...
252To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 31 August 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
In addition to the Instructions to Commodore Morris copy of which had been transmitted to you by the last Mail , I have found it necessary to send to him further powers of which the enclosed is a Copy. From the best information I have been able to obtain through various channels these Gun Boats will be indispensibly necessary. Accept the assurances of my high respect— RC ( DLC ); endorsed by...
253To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 27 August 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
Agreeably to your letter of instructions of the 23d I have put in Commission the additional frigate. I have selected the John Adams because she is the smallest and of course the Cheapest and she will, besides, answer all the purposes of the largest frigate. Dispatch is of the Utmost importance. Notwithstanding the oppressively hot weather we have been progressing with the New York with an...
254To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 27 August 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
Being apprehensive that the blank Commissions & Warrants mentioned in my Letter to you of the 17th instant, to have been transmitted to receive your signature, and which appear to have been Mis-sent, may not be recovered in time to accomodate Capt. Barron &. some other officers attached to the New York, I now do myself the honor to enclose twelve blanks of each, additional, & have to request...
255To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 20 August 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
From the dispatches herewith sent you will perceive the state of our affairs in the Mediterranean. I am seriously apprehensive that Commodore Morris may not have considered himself authorised to retain the Boston and that, if he has retained her, he will not, with the addition of the New York, be able to protect our Citizens. The Enemys Coast is so extended that the dangers are great. And the...
256To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 17 August 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
Captain James Barron and some other Officers of the Navy who have been heretofore commissioned but whose Commissions for the want of proper blanks being then ready were filled up on such as were originally intended for Warrants, are solicitous for the sake of appearance, to have them exchanged; I have therefore the honor to request your signature to the 15 blank Commissions transmitted...
257To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 16 August 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
Your favor of the 9h. I had the pleasure of receiving yesterday. The disposition manifested by the Emperor of Morocco is evidently hostile and evinces a determination to go to War with us unless we abanden the expedition against Tripoli. And the unhappy affair of Capt McNeill with the squadron of Tunis cannot but have involved us with that power. This state of things demanding immediate...
258To James Madison from Robert Smith, 3 August 1802 (Abstract) (Madison Papers)
3 August 1802, Navy Department. Acknowledges JM’s letter of 29 July and informs him that Lieutenant Chauncey will be instructed to deliver $30,000 to Algiers. “In the event of the money not being applied as intended, Commodore Morris will be instructed with respect to receiving it back.… Mr. Chauncey will also be instructed to receive and deliver the Gun carriages as you request.” RC ( DLC );...
259To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 24 July 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
I have the honor to request your Signature to the Commission herewith enclosed for Lieut Philomon C: Wederstrandt : This Gentleman has been heretofore Commissioned, but as his Commission was filled up on a blank, originally intended for a Warrant, he is desirous to have it exchanged. With the utmost respect I have the honor to be Sir Your mo. obt. Servt. RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed...
260To James Madison from Robert Smith, 23 July 1802 (Madison Papers)
I have received from a friend intimations which induce me to think that the son of G. Christie is not qualified for the appointment of Consul. This may be a subject of some delicacy. But to such unpleasant situations we are frequently exposed. With great Esteem I am sir, Y st. RC ( DNA : RG 59, LAR , 1801–9, filed under “Christie”). Docketed by Jefferson. For Gabriel Christie’s efforts to...
261Robert Smith’s Observations on the Charges Against Arthur St. Clair, 15 June 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
Observations upon the charges against Governor St. Clair— 1st. Charge is not established. It was not an usurpation, but an exercise of a legitimate power. The Ordinance of Congress has expressly given to the Governor the power of laying out the Territory into Counties and Townships subject only to this qualification—that the Legislature may thereafter make any alterations therein. The division...
262To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 12 June 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
I have the honor to enclose herewith a Warrant of Midshipman for William Sim . He is the son of a very meritorious officer in our revolutionary War.— With much respect, I have the honor to be, Sir, Yr mo: ob: servt.— RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 12 June and “Midshipman” and so recorded in...
263To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 22 May 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
I do myself the honor to enclose you Warrants for Mr J Downes & Mr. L. Alexis , which will require your signature should you approve their appointment—also a Commission for Doct Smith — The two first mentioned of these gentlemen have been serving in the capacity of acting Midshipmen for several years—They are mentioned in very handsome terms by their Commanding officers. Doct. Smith was out in...
264To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 8 May 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
I do myself the honor to enclose Warrants for Jno. N. Canon—Boatswain & David Loring—Gunner— Should you approve their appointment these Warrants will require your signature— These gentlemen have been in the frigate President, her last cruise—& are highly recommended by Commdre. Dale & Capt. Barron. I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect Sir, your most obt servt. RC ( DLC ); in a...
265To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 4 May 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
Mr. John R Leaycraft of New York, & Mr. Drury M. Allen of Buckingham County, Virginia, have been strongly recommended for Midshipmen in the Navy— I therefore do myself the honor to enclose Warrants for them, wc. require your signature, should you concur in their appointment— I have the honor to be, most respectfully, Sir, Your ob servt. RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot...
266To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 26 April 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
Mr Jas Roach , the young gentleman for whom the enclosed Warrant is intended—has been mentioned to me in terms of approbation— Should you approve his appointment, the enclosed will require your signature— I have the honor to be with the greatest respect, Sir, your mo ob: st. RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “President U: States”; endorsed by TJ as received from...
267To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 21 April 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
Mr Neilson the writer of the enclosed Letter is a Gentleman of respectability in the State of Maryland. And no person Contributed more than he did to the triumph of Republicanism in that State. Yours Respectfully RC ( DNA : RG 59 , LAR ); endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 22 Apr. and “Doctr. Raphl. Smith to be Superintt. hospitl. N. Orleans” and so recorded in SJL ....
268To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 16 April 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
Mr Charles Ludlow for whom the accompanying nomination is intended, has been mentioned to me in terms of very high Approbation, by many respectable Nautical gentlemen—He is intended for the Adams. I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, Sir, your mo: ob: st: RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “President United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from...
269To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, [1 April 1802] (Jefferson Papers)
The enclosed I have received this morning . There are some incorrect statements in it with respect to me as well as yourself. His suggestions, in his opinion, ought to be regarded as Laws. I have prepared the dispatches for Capt Morris and have herewith sent them for your approbation— RC ( DLC ); undated; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 1 Apr. 1802 and “Truxton’s...
270To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 30 March 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
The young gentleman for whom the enclosed is intended, has been recommended by Colo New for reinstatement in the Navy. With your approbation the enclosed letter shall be forwarded. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Sir, your mo obt RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “Prest. UStates”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 30 Mch. and...
271To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 29 March 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
The enclosed Warrant is for a young Gentleman recommended by Col Burr. If you approve his Appointment be pleased to give the enclosed Warrant your Signature I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect Sir, your mo obt St. RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “President U:States.”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 29 Mch. and so recorded...
272To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 25 March 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
The young Gentleman to whom the enclosed letter is addressed, has been recommended by Mr. Page , for reinstatement in the navy. If you have no objection the enclosed letter shall be forwarded. FC ( Lb in DNA : RG 45 , LSP ); at head of text: “The President.” Enclosure: Smith to Hugh Wallace Wormeley, 25 Mch. 1802, informing Wormeley that he has been reinstated as a midshipman in the navy and...
273To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 13 March 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
I have the honor to request your Signature to the Warrant herewith enclosed for Samuel Johnson as a Gunner in the Navy, he is now acting on board the Adams, & is well recommended by Capn. Preble. With great respect, I have the honor to be Sir Your mo. obt Sert. RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department...
274To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 9 March 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
I have the honor to request your signature to the enclosed warrants for— Daniel Eldridge Sailing Master. James Watson Boatswain. Robert Myers Carpenter. With much respect yr mo: ob: servt. RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “the President”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 10 Mch. and “Nominations” and so recorded in SJL . FC ( Lb in DNA :
275To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 1 March 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
For some weeks I have been much importuned by Mr Brown respecting the Marine Barracks . I have invariably referred him to the propositions prescribed by you, which were some months since sent to him as your ultimate determination. I have, however, in consequence of his pressing solicitation this day taken the liberty of sending the enclosed to you. It is proper, Sir, to inform you, that under...
276To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 20 February 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
I do myself the honor to enclose Warrants for Charles Benson —of Fredericksburg William Holmes . of Columbia To be Midshipmen in the Navy. Mr Benson is the Gentleman recommended to you by Mr. Mercer—Mr Page & others—Mr. Holmes is a smart young man of this place—There are Vacancies enough to admit their appt.—& if you concur, the enclosed warrants will require your Signature. I have the honor...
277To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 17 February 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
Mr. Wm. S Butler , the son of Genl Butler, is desirous of entering the Navy as Midpn.—There are now vacancies, & I think his appointment would be a good one. If you concur, your Signature will be necessary to the enclosed warrant. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Sir, your most obt. Servt. RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “Prest. U States”;...
278To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 8 February 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
I have the honor to request your signature to the enclosed Commissions & Warrants—they are wanted for the Surgeon’s mate recently appointed—& for other Commd & Warrant long since appointed, who have lost their Commissions & Warrants— I have the honor to be, with great respect, Sir, Your mo. ob. st. RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “President United States”;...
279To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 2 February 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
Doct S. Robinson has been highly recommended to me for a Surgs. Mate in the Navy—& I think he would make a good appointment—His services are wanted— I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Sir your Mo: ob: sr: RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “Prest. United States”; endorsed by TJ as received from the Navy Department on 2 Feb. and so recorded in SJL...
280To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 19 January 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
I do myself the honor to enclose a List of gentlemen, recommended for Surgeon’s Mates in the Navy. The Chesapeak & Constellation are both in want of officers of this grade— Mr. Rogers —of this city—has been recommended by judge Kilty—Mr. John A Smith —of Georgetown, by Doct. Worthington & others—Mr. Jos W New , by his father Colo New—& Mr Alexr. Mc.Williams has been appointed for a...
281To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 15 January 1802 (Jefferson Papers)
I have the honor to request your signature to the enclosed Warrants— The persons for whom they are intended have been recommended by Capt. Murray —those stations being vacant on board the Constellation. I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, Sir, Your mo ob hb sr. RC ( DLC ); in a clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “Honble Th Jefferson Prest U States”; endorsed by TJ...
282To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 29 December 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
Under the impression that the President will be obliged to send to the Medn. Squadron new orders in consequence of measures, which, there is reason to believe, will be adopted by Congress and that such orders will be conveyed in the Enterprize, it is believed that the proper Officers ought to be ordered immediately to that vessel. For this purpose it is proposed to send the accompanying...
283XII. Robert Smith’s Remarks on the Draft Message, [on or before 21 November 1801] (Jefferson Papers)
page 1st . I sent a small squadron of frigates into the Mediterranean with overtures of conciliation and with instructions to assure the Bey of Tripoli of my cordial disposition to preserve with him a State of peace; but with orders at the same time, in case of a declaration of war by that Regency, to protect our Commerce against depradation and our Citizens against Captivity. The Measure was...
284To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Smith, 20 November 1801 (Hamilton Papers)
Your application to me in favor of Capt Du Buisson was highly acceptable and required no kind of apology. His case has had all the attention which under existing Circumstances could consistently be given to it. I have given him a sum of Money which will accomodate him for the present. Be persuaded, sir, I shall at all times be happy in receiving from you any Communications with which you may...
285To James Madison from Robert Smith, 13 November 1801 (Madison Papers)
I have the Honor to request that you will be pleased to send me an order on the Director of the Mint, permitting Mr Harrison, or an artist under his direction, to use the Machine for striking Coins, for the Medal intended for Capt Truxtun. I have the Honor to be sir, very respectfully Your Mo ob servt. RC ( DNA : RG 59, ML ); letterbook copy ( DNA : RG 45, Letters to Secretary of State)....
286To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 13 November 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
As it is probable that the frigate Boston may remain on the Mediterranean Station, and as Capt McNeill would in such case be improperly continued in service contrary to the determination of the Executive , I have conceived that some arrangement ought to be made to prevent such an impropriety. The enclosed letters have been prepared with that view and are submitted to your Consideration. Be...
287To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 26 October 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
Before I make the proposed communication to Brown & Pearson I consider it proper to submit to your examination the enclosed Note. You will be pleased to make such alterations as to you may appear necessary. Very respectfully Your Obed Sevt RC ( DLC ); at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received 26 Oct. and “Marine barracks” and so recorded in SJL . Enclosure not found, but see...
288To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 26 October 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
The Enclosed has some relation to the Case of the Officer of the Marine Corps some days since submitted to your Consideration. His proposed bargain is an additional evidence of his meanness. With great respect Your Mo. Obed Servt RC ( DLC ); at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ as received 26 Oct. and “Lt. Church” and so recorded in SJL . Enclosures: (1) Jonathan Church to William...
289To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 8 October 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
I have Seen Col Burrows and I have arranged with him to be at the Barracks at half after 9 OClock tomorrow morning. I have taken the liberty of fixing this time as I shall thus have more time for the business of my department, and it will not, I trust, be an inconvenient time to you Be pleased to accept the assurance of my Respect RC ( DLC ); endorsed by TJ as received 8 Oct. from the Navy...
290To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 30 September 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
The case of Doctor Barraud brought to your attention by Judge Tucker was acted upon before I came into Office. To enable you to give to Judge Tucker a view of the proceedings that lead to the removal of this Gentleman, I herewith send to you enclosed copies of the Letters upon the subject. The high pretensions of Doctor Barraud were probably not known to either Mr Gallatin or Genl Dearborne—...
291To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 11 September 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
I have great satisfaction in informing you that the Elections in the State of Maryland for Electors of the State Senate have terminated in favor of the Republicans. I hasten to give you this information from the knowledge that you are sensible of its great importance in the national Councils. We have retained our ground in all the Counties in which we had succeeded in the last Election and we...
292To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 4 September 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
I cannot find that any of the 20,000 Dol fund can be spared for the purpose mentioned in your Letter of the 29h. Ult. The Report made to me by Col Burrows which was inclosed in my Letter to you of the 31st. Ult has no doubt satisfied you that this fund, instead of lending, would willingly borrow money for the purpose of completing the Barracks. This letter was put into the post-Office the day...
293To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 31 August 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
From the dispatches received by Captain Rodgers , which will be transmitted by this post from the department of State to you and to mr Madison, we have the unhappiness to perceive that the French Government have not appeared disposed to accede to the terms of ratification proposed by us. Apprehensive that at some future day claims respecting indemnities might be revived, they, it seems, have...
294To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 17 August 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
I have the honor to transmit herewith Abstracts of the Warrants on the Treasury issued by me for the use of the Departments of War and Navy, and the balances remaining on hand, for the Week ending the 15th Inst. I have the honor to be Sir with the highest Consideration & respect your most obt. Servt. RC ( DLC ); in clerk’s hand, signed by Smith; at foot of text: “The President”; endorsed by TJ...
295To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 7 August 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
The chief Clerk of the department of State having this morning shewn to me a Letter from mr Thorton requesting the Executive to order the departure of the English Ship that has been brought into the port of Boston by certain French Citizens, I consider it proper to communicate to you my Opinion thereon. My numerous and pressing engagements will not allow me to go into an extensive discussion...
296To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 20 July 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
Instead of proceeding to Washington immediately and of returning, as suggested by you, in the Course of a few days for the purpose of adjusting my private affairs, I have determined to postpone my removal until Saturday next. The state of the health of one of my sons irresistiby demands my immediate attention. Under the advice of the Physicians I will tomorrow take him and Mrs. Smith to a...
297To Thomas Jefferson from Robert Smith, 13 July 1801 (Jefferson Papers)
I have the honor of acknowleging the receipt of your favor of the 9th in which you were pleased to propose to me the department of the Navy. Sincerely do I lament that you have been constrained to turn your attention to a person whose education and habits have not sufficiently prepared him for the various duties of this Office. Unqualified, however, as I may be at the beginning, I am disposed...