Having Constantly in my memory the many marks of Esteem with which you honoured me while my residence in the United states; and take for granted that you will hear with pleasure any thing which may Contribute to my wellfare and happiness—I take the liberty to acquaint you that Tho’ I have been for some years past in a very disagreable ⟨situation⟩ and which has prevailed upon me to ⟨declined⟩ all my Correspondence with my american friends I am now again in a very diferent Circumstances Clear’d from the darkness of my past ⟨mist⟩.

⟨The King⟩ my Mastter well Informed at last of my services by His Excellency D. Diego de Gardoqui, has been pleased to honoured me with the appointment of the Intendence of ⟨illegible⟩ new orleans and all the other establishments of that part of America, Declearing to me also the fun[c]tions and honours of Intendent of his majesty’s Army. This honorable Commission affords to me a great satisfaction not only on account of my advancement and the service I may be able to render to my Contry, but the Circumstances of been placed so near neighbour to the United states which I may probable find occasion to shew to the Inhavitants of them my sincere disposition to Contribute in any manner to their happiness as well as to Establish a perfect harmony with those of the Possessions of my sovereign.

The City of my residence will be that of New orleans where (if pleased to god) I hope to arrive Early in the spring next, and where I expected to receive your Commands with the agreable news of your perfect health and that of Mrs Washington to who I beg you to present my best respects; and you sir be assured of the true affection and respect with which I am and shall be for ever your most obedt and most humble servt