I am compell’d from the distressed Sittuation of my family to solicit of Your Excellency a discharge from the Service; It is with reluctance I quit a Service in which I have been deeply engagd in at the risque of life from the Commencment Of hostilities; It has been the heigth of my ambition at all times to discharge the trust reposed in me with fidelity. & nothing but the tender calls of a Helpless family could have inducd me at this time to make the request I have done. I am Yr Excellencys most humble & devoted Servant