Department of War, Pension Office
25 April 1821.
Sir
The documents in support of Joseph Williams’ claim to a pension have been examined, and as there is no positive proof of his having served full nine months or more in the War of the Revolution on Continental establishment they are returned to you. If Williams served as stated in his declaration on board the ship Providence there can be no difficulty in procuring ample proof of the fact in the state of Rhode Island, which, when done and the papers returned to this office a final decision will take place and you will be advised of the issue.
Respectfully
Your obed. Servant
J.L. Edwards
Charles Lathrop Esq.
New London Conn.
Joseph Williams is listed as a ship owner, ship master and bonder from Norwich, Connecticut. Charles Lathrop was clerk of the courts in New London County, Connecticut.