I have been much paind that any connection of mine Shd have come under the denomination of Office hunter. I make to no doubt the dft. offices are properly & wisely disposed of, & I assure You I shd have had my doubts if the Gentn. I now alude to had succeeded. If my dear Sir You in the least consider my application for the Commd. of Fort Norfolk, or if You think those who know me less wd. consider it as a matter of lucrative favr. pray do not hint it. I am at this day possesst of more Estate than I want & had as leave serve my Country without pay as with it, but I well know that I could without loss of time render most important Services to my Father & his losses thru the last & the present Year require exertion. As far as respects my Single Self I assure You on my honor I do not care where & how I serve. I am now forced to set out to Richmd. to enter Special Bail in some Suits I unfortunately entered into as appearance Bail. Is not this a most dreadfull hardship. Its effects are many ways deeply prejudicial. My little wife begs to be ⟨hond⟩ by Your tendering her Respects to Mrs. Madison. Warmly and sincerely & Gratefully I am Sir Your Mo. Ob