Since my letter of the 10th I have learnt1 that a new regulation has been adopted in the Navy department, by which no person can recieve a Midshipman’s warrant unless they have been on some actual service at sea 6. months at least. it was further observed that a considerable proportion of the applicants, within that period become so disgusted with sea-service as to relinquish their intentions altogether. mr Wistar will therefore have to go thro’ this noviciate before his application will be recieved.

I write under the pain of a recently fractured arm, which happened the 2d day after I had written to you. it is the Radius of the left arm a little2 above the small bones of the wrist, and is doing well. I salute you3 with constant friendship and respect.