It has not been in my power sooner to acknolege the reciept of your favor of Jan. 15. with every disposition to gratify the desires of so distinguished a revolutionary character, it is out of my power at present to offer any appointment to your son which he would probably accept: there being no vacancies now open to new competitors, above the rank of ensign or 2d. Lieutenant. a bill for raising a large body of volunteers is now before Congress. should that pass there will be room for his services, & as they will be called out only in case of actual war, & for a scene perhaps, familiar to you, it may offer an occasion agreeable to yourself of again drawing your sword in your country’s cause. this however will be for consideration between yourself & my successor to whom I shall; within not many days, resign the public cares with more chearfulness than I accepted them. I pray you to accept my friendly salutations & assurances of respect.