I have taken the Commander in Chief’s Orders on the subject of your Letter, & have to inform you, that where men indulged with furloughs have not returned, but are struck of the Rolls as deserters, others who would have received leave of absence upon their return, may be furloughed Notwithstanding—this is upon a presumption the Commandg Officers of Regts in which such Desertions have happened will be careful to recommend none hereafter, for whose fidelity they cannot absolutely be responsible—should the instances of Desertion in cases of furlough multiply I am apprehensive the General will put a total stop to the indulgence itself. I am Sir &c.