I thank you very much for your attention to my request respecting a Secretary.1 The testimony of Mr Stockdon2 & yourself would be decisive as to Mr Howe had not information from other quarters prepossessed me extremely in his favour. The enclosed letter3 offers him the place; have the goodness to forward it without delay.

How would the idea suit you and him of an appointment to a second Lieutenancy in your Regiment? It would increase his advantages among the rest & put him in a course of military promotion. I am aware it is not within the system & would so far mutilate your regiment. But perhaps I may surmount the obstacle from the first consideration & I thought that your friendship for Mr. Howe might dispose you to some sacrifice for his benefit.

Yrs. truly