I am peinfully sensibel of the manifest impropriety of a Soldiers applying for leave of absence at this season of the year: especially one who has but lately Joined the army; and nothing but an Idea of the most presing necessity on my part Could have induced me to trobil you on that Subject at this time.

It is with the deepest Anxiety and confusion I must inform you that before I joined the army my Connections in a famely; which, of all others I should wish not to injure any respect, have, in an unlucky and Unguarded hour foolishly proceeded to Such a length as to plunge the person I hold most dear in a labrinth of Difficulty and distriss—To a gentleman of Col. Jacksons sensibility it is unnecessary to mention how tenaicous Parents in general are with respect to the Characters of their Children in Such cases and that Marriag is the only reparation wich can be made; on my part for an ingury of this kind wich unless it is performed in a limited time will leave a Stigma that can never hereafter be wiped off—If Sir after taking my Case into Consideration you Should condesend to solicit the General in my behalf for leave of absence for thirty days or Such a time as Should be thought necessary for my purpose by a punctual Return and Constant endeavar to discharge the duties of a Soldier I Shall make it my particular care to testify my gratitude for the faver conferred on me. I am Sir with [   ] Your most devoted and humble Servant

The inclosed representation was handed me last evening by the bearer, a soldier in my regiment. He is a man of a good character, the person he wishes to marry is of a good reputable family, as I am inform’d by Capt. Haywood of the sixth regiment who is well acquainted with his & her connections. I am dear Sir, with great respect & regard, your very humble Servt