Application has been made to you for a Midshipman warrant for Wm P. Livingston of Newyork. I am not personally acquainted with the young gentleman but from my knowledge of the character of his family I cannot doubt as to his. Will you have the goodness to inform me whether he can be appointed as I wish to write his brother on the subject & spare him the trouble of presenting an <illegible> application if the State of the <Service> should render this such