17 December 1816
Monroe, James (1758-1831)
Autograph endorsement signed
Title: [Endorsement securing naval commission]
Initial letter was written by Francis Taliaferro Brooke, a judge on the Virginia Supreme Court to Monroe as Secretary of State requesting a recommendation for a naval position for Dr. Benjamin D. Russel. Brooke said Russel's health was damaged during his work as a surgeon of militia in the War of 1812 and that he was ordered to breathe sea air to recover it. Asks Monroe to oblige this experiment. On verso over address, Monroe endorses the request to the Secretary of the Navy. Initialed "JM" after his endorsement.
GLC00496.195