Sidney Smith Lee to J. C. Howell

It gives me great pleasure to state that your conduct whilst on board of this ship merited & received the approbation of all the officers (myself in particular) attached to her in your talents and strict attention to duty gave promise of future usefulness and high standing in your profession such as I hope to see realized in you.

Wishing you better health and every success I am Sir.

Very Respectfully,

Yr. Obt. Ser

S. S. Lee

1st Lieut

I have never known an officer to perform his duty with more cheerfulness, zeal or ability, and I can conscientiously say that as an officer, and as a gentleman his character is not only above reproach but his merits entitle him to the highest considerations that can be given to an officer of his rank.

To Midn. J. C. Howell