I take the liberty of applying to you in behalf of a man, who from his advanced age is without resourse—His youthful days were spent in the defence of American liberty & his mature days have been devoted to the same cause—He came here in the John Adams Frigate, and after being paid off, went to Philadelphia to see his Wife and family—but was most grievously disappointed on going there to find himself without a relation—his Wife & children having died in the yellow fever—

Captain Shaw Knowing his situation advised to come here & by his recommendation he was admitted into the Navy Yard in which he had, hopes (being a sailor) to secure himself from indigence—

Within these few days, however, he has been discharged, and after all his services is turned adrift—he therefore appeals to your feelings to replace him in ordinary where he was for some time contented & satisfied and as in duty bound he will forever thank you