Memorandum:
Appointment of Robert J. Sperry1Jump to section
At this date, I am under obligation to give the first appointment to the Naval School in my power, to John T. Grimsley, of Illinois, and no other commital must supersede this obligation. After saying this much, I add that I would be glad for the boy within named, to have another chance, if at all consistent with the service.
Aug. 10. 1863. A. LINCOLN
Annotation
[1] AES, ICHi.Lincoln's endorsement is written on the back of a letter from Gideon Welles to Robert J. Sperry,January 8, 1863, dismissing Sperry from the Naval Academy ``for insubordination, neglect of studies and having in your possession a most obscene book.'' John T. Grimsley was appointed (see Lincoln's telegram to Mrs. Grimsley, August 24, infra), but there is no record of his entrance. Robert J. Sperry is listed as mate in the Navy, May 13, 1864.