Ensign Bancroft of the 5th Massachusetts Regiment, under my command since the reform of the Army Jany 1st 1781, having requested me to apply to your Excellency for his discharge. I take the Liberty to send his Commission by Major Ashley, & request that his desire may be granted.

I beg leave to observe that Mr Bancroft has served with much reputation, & I am fully convinced, that nothing but his very ill state of health would induce him to quit the service of his Country, especially at the opening of a Campaign.

He has been absent near a Year for the recovery of his health without any favorable Effect at present, or prospect of ever being able to perform Military duty. I have the honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble Servant