It is a considerable time since I received the Letter in which you informed me, it would be impossible for you to return to the Army at the period appointed, on account of your pecuniary & domestic affairs.

Sympathizing deeply in your private distresses, I have delayed to recall your attention and presence to your Command as long as the circumstances of Service, my own personal feelings, and the duty I owe to the public would suffer me to do it.

Before the receipt of this Letter, you will have learnt my sentiments respecting the duties that are expected of the General Officers of this Army, from a late Order transmitted to you Officially by the Adjutt General. in addition to that information, I now take the liberty in this private & friendly manner to acquaint you, that in case you wish to retain a Command in this Army it will be essential for you to come on immediately, prepared to remain with it; As I must make it a point for every Officer who will have the honor of Commanding any Corps of Troops in it, to take upon himself the charge & trouble of manoeuvring, disciplining and forming that Corps for the Field.

I do not here enter fully into the detail of the reasons which now make it particularly necessary for the General Officers who have been long absent to join without loss of time; it will surely be sufficient to mention, that out of Nine Generals assigned to the command of the Troops in this Cantonment Eight are either actually gone, or have made applications to be absent at the same time, so that by gratifying their wishes (besides incurring reprehension from the Public) the whole weight of the business, the cares, and the troubles of the Army, would devolve upon me, until a Sunshine occasion, or a prospect of some brilliant operation should induce them to return & share the pleasures and honors of Service.

I request you will be so kind as to give me an answer to this by the very next Post, and that you will believe I am—with Sentimts of esteem & regard Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt