I have received your favor of the 23d of August & have the pleasure to inform you that I have this morning signed a commission for Capt. Cross.

Your brother Mr. States Rutledge shall have my vote for a midshipman on board any Frigate he chooses, in which there is a vacancy & I believe there is one or more vacancies in all of them. And I pray you to write to Mr. Stoddert, the Secy of the navy & request him to make out a warrant accordingly you may inclose this letter to him if you please.

I am Sir with great regard / your most obedient Servant