[a. May 14^th 1798 Charles Simms recommending M^r M^cMe
[undecipherable: rea?] to a Lieutenancy
in the Navy] [Rec^d. May 17^th] Alexandria May 14^th 1798 Sir Mr John M^cCrea a young Gentleman of this Town, desirous of entering into the [service] of his country, wishes to be appointed Lieutenant in the Navy of the United States — M^r M^cCrea is a young man of liberal education [and] talents, and reſpectable character — He is theoretically and practically acquainted with navigation, and I believe every way deserving the appointment which he solicits — I am Sir with great reſpect Y^r Ob^t. Serv^t Ch^s Simms