To Thomas Jefferson from William C. C. Claiborne, 1 September 1804
From William C. C. Claiborne
New-Orleans 1st. September 1804
Dear Sir,
Having been informed that Doctor John Watkins had declined the appointment of Surgeon to the garrison of New Orleans, permit me to name to you Doctor Oliver H. Spencer as qualified in the opinion of those who know him to fill that Station.
Doctor Spencer is a young man of promising talents: his skill, industry and attention in the practise of medecine and his amiable deportment in private life have procured him a high place in the esteem of the Society of New-Orleans.—He has for some time past acted as Surgeon pro-tempore to the garrison, and I learn has acquired the affections and confidence of the troops.
I have the honor to be, with Sentiments of the highest esteem and respect! Your most obdt. Servt.
William C. C. Claiborne
RC (DLC); in Joseph Briggs’s hand, signed by Claiborne; at foot of text: “Thomas Jefferson President of the United States”; endorsed by TJ as received 9 Oct. and “Spencer to be Surgeon at N.O.” and so recorded in SJL.
For Claiborne’s earlier recommendation of Oliver H. Spencer, see Hore Browse Trist to TJ, 2 June.