RC (DLC); endorsed by TJ as received 5 Sept. 1811 and so recorded in SJL. Enclosures: (1) Thomas Turpin to [John Wayles Eppes and William B. Giles], Powhatan, 9 July 1811, recommending Harris, a distant relation he has known from birth as “a young Gentleman of good character and respectable connexions”; mentioning Harris’s father’s Revolutionary War service; and asking for help in getting the younger Harris a naval appointment. (2) Philip Turpin to [Eppes and Giles], Salisbury, 13 July 1811, recommending Harris, whom he has known from infancy and regards as “a young gentleman of merit and respectability.” (3) James Pleasants to John Wayles Eppes, Goochland County, 22 July 1811, recommending Harris, whom he has known from infancy, and commenting on “his general good character” and the respectability of his parents and relations. (4) Eppes to Paul Hamilton, Buckingham, 7 Aug. 1811, enclosing nos. 1–2, also mentioning a supportive letter by Pleasants and indicating that he does not know Harris, but describing his relations favorably and advising his appointment as a midshipman. (5) Giles to Hamilton, Wigwam, 7 Aug. 1811, enclosing nos. 1–3 and indicating that he does not know Harris but emphasizing the good character of his father, relatives, and those recommending him (two RCs of nos. 1–2 and one of nos. 3–5 in DNA: RG 45, MLRSN).