Gentn
As I understand some of the Gondolas are nearly ready for which your Honorable Board has the Appointment of Officers — I would therefore beg leave to remind you of two Gentn who have been recommended to you by sundry Persons who are well acquainted with them — Their Names are Captn Bennett Mathews and John Stevenson of Harford County — Captn Mathews is well acquainted with the Sea & is a Gentn of Integrity & Attachment to the American Cause he applies for a Captn's Commission — John Stevenson is a worthy, deserving young Man as well acquainted with Military Discipline as most young Men in our Country— he applies for a first Lieutenancy & should your Honors think proper to appoint him he would be desirous of serving under Captn Mathews — They are both natives of this Province I am Gentn with great Respect [&c.]
John Archer
Harford County Novr 26th 1776
1. Red Book, XVI, Md. Arch.