From Thomas Jefferson to Robert Smith, 23 May 1805
To Robert Smith
Washington May 23. 05
Dear Sir
I have spoken with Genl. Dearborne on the subject of the Marines at N. Orleans, and he sais there is nothing in his department opposed to their discharge. it occurred however in conversation that as some of the gun-boats building on the Ohio are destined for N. Orleans, and two of them at least for immediate service, you might think it better to retain these marines to man them, as better subjects, and saving the expence of bringing them back & raising & sending others. instead therefore of sending the letter to Capt Carmick, I return it to you to forward it, or not as you shall think best. the moment we can have a gun-boat at N. Orleans we must order her to visit the bay of St. Bernard & Mattagordo. Accept affectionate & respectful salutations
Th: Jefferson
PoC (DLC); at foot of text: “The Secretary of the Navy.” Notation in SJL: “marines.” Enclosure not found, but see below.
letter to Capt Carmick: on 4 May, Smith wrote orders to Daniel Carmick, the commander of the marine detachment at New Orleans, to return with his officers and men on the first available vessel (FC in Lb in DNA: RG 45, MLS; , Register, 63).
bay of St. Bernard & Mattagordo: according to TJ’s Notes on John Sibley’s Account of Native American Tribes, [after 21 May 1805], the Spanish were considering the establishment of a settlement at Matagorda Bay.