Lieut. Thomas Brounell, of the United States Navy, has been with any approbation detached from duty at Sackett's Harbor, & by order of the Secy. of the Navy required to report to the Post Master Genl. for duty in inspecting the Steam Ships, which Edward Mills contracted to furnish for transportation of the mail and I do hereby appoint the said Lieut. Thomas Brounell with authority to make the inspections authorized by said contract, subject to the orders and instructions of the Post Master General.

September 5th 1846

James K. Polk

Note on reverse:

Let this letter be modified as suggested & signed by the action P. M. G. with the necessary instructions to Lt. B-J. K. P.