It is very distressing to me that it is not within the Line of Your Excellency’s Power to issue a Warrant in my Case; for, I am confident you feel Pleasure, when you can relieve.

I am sensible that I have not the Advantage of being personally known to you; but if you would honour me with a Letter to Congress, grounded on General Gates Recommendation of me to Your Excellency, it is not unreasonable in me to believe my Promotion would be obtained without Difficulty. This Favour I entreat Your Excellency to grant me. It is the first I ever solicited from the Public. With the greatest Respect I have the Honour to be, Sir, Your excellency’s Most humble and most obedient Servant