My Friend Mr. Tayloe of the City will do me the favor to present a letter I have this day addressed to him on the subject of a Friend of mine also, Thomas Strode, who (I learn from Gentlemen in this place) is extremely solicitous of becoming a Member of the Army of the United States. I feel so well persuaded of this Gentleman’s particular disposition to become an Officer, and of his possessing the necessary talents & Letters to recommend himself, that I have no douts from his Rank & situation in life, he will perhaps receive that Consideration from the War ⟨Department⟩ that will enable him to obtain the distinction he so much wishes for. He has been for a long ⟨time⟩ a near Neighbor of mine, and I feel well Convinc’d that he is possess’d of those particular ideas, necessary to ⟨   ⟩ himself a good Military Character. Pardon if you please the liberty I have taken. I am Sir Very Respectfully Yr. Mo. Ob. Hble Servt.