Towards effecting the intended Operations of the ensuing Campaign, I had made a Requisition to the State of Pensylvania for a Number of Militia to join the Army under my immediate Comand—but that State having been called upon at the same Time by Congress for a Number of their Militia for the southern service, his Excellency the President has informed me that it will not be in their Power to fulfill both Requisitions—I have therefore withdrawn my Request.

In the Course of our intended Operations, I shall have Occasion for a Body of about three Hundred expert Rifle Men, for most necessary & essential Services, and as all those of our Troops, composing the Line of the Army, from whence I could hope to draw such a Corps, are gone southward, so that it is become impracticable to supply them here—I have written to his Excellency President Reed, begging that he will furnish me with such Body of Troops from that State to serve with this Army during this Campaign.

If Congress should approve this Measure I have to request, that they will be pleased to signify their Approbation to Mr President Reed, & enforce this Requisition; accompanying it with a Promise of Repayment to the State of whatever Bounty they shall engage, with Pay, Rations & compleat Continental Establishment equal to the other Troops in the Field, during the Time they are in Service—this measure I deem necessary because I suppose they cannot be raised as Militia.

A Corps of Men composed of such expert Marksmen, being in my Opinion, of so very great Importance on the Execution of our Intentions, I have the most sanquine Hope, that this Requisition will meet with the most speedy Success. I have the Honor to be with perfect Esteem & Consideration Sir Your Excellencys most Obedient & very humble Servant