I have been honored with your two Letters of the 21st & 23d of this Month.

Your Excellency’s reply to Dean’s Letter I read with great Satisfaction—and the pleasure was hightened by findg that it contained not only your own Sentiments, but also conveys the Sense of the Legislative Body of your State—From a variety of circumstances I view the present, as the most critical Moment, that we have almost ever experienced throughout the present contest.

I am very sorry not to have it in my power to comply with your Excellency’s Request for a small Invalid Guard for New Gate prison. I assure you Sir! that, in present circumstances and with present prospects, I must estimate every Invalid (capable of any Service) as a good Man, and keep them on constant Duty. With great Regard & Esteem I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servant