Theodore Roosevelt

TLS, two pages, 7.5 x 9.5, Navy Department letterhead, June 14, 1897. As Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Roosevelt writes to Governor William Yates Atkinson of Georgia, in part: "Referring to your letter of the 11th instant presented by Lieutenants Frank D. Aiken and James S. Wright, officers of Georgia's Naval Militia, I have to inform you that the torpedo boats turned in by the U.S.S. Maine and Texas are now in Government use as follows: The two turned in by the Maine are at the Torpedo Station, Newport, where they are being used for the instruction of the officers forming the torpedo class. Those turned in from the Texas have had the torpedo gear removed and are now being used as ordinary launches, one at the Naval Ordnance Proving Ground, Indian Head, and the other at the Washington Navy Yard. If you will put in a request for the loan of a 1-pdr. Hotchkiss gun, complete, one will be furnished you from the New York Navy Yard. It is understood, however, that the cost of transportation will have to be borne by the State of Georgia. Please furnish the Department with shipping directions, in case you desire the loan of this gun. Referring to that part of your letter asking that a vessel of the Navy be ordered to Brunswick during July next for the purpose of affording instruction to the Naval Militia of Georgia, you are informed that the U.S.S. Wilmington will probably be available for such detail beginning July 15th. Please inform the Department as soon as possible whether this date will be satisfactory." He adds a handwritten postscript: "It is in accord with the request of Lieutenants Aiken & Wright." Nicely double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 31 x 18. In fine condition.

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