The letter states:

Washington Nov. 11th 1817

"A friend of yours has informed me, that you are desirous to have testimonial from me, as it regards your publick services & conduct whilst under my command, & I only do justus to you, I feel a great pleasure in being able to state, that your conduct as an officer & gentleman, during the period we served together was such as to meet my fullest approbation, in action it was cool & gallant".

Yours truly Stephen Decatur

Lieut. James L. Edwards