In reply to your application for leave of absence, I must Observe, that Genl Hazen when last in Town signified to me his intentions of applying for permission to go to the Eastward about the middle of January, upon business that required his personal attendance, and that Lt. Colo. Antill would also wish to be indulged in Visiting his family in the course of the Winter. Considering these Circumstances should I fully comply with your request the post of Lancaster might be too destitute of field officers to have the necessary duty properly discharged, I can therefore only grant you leave of absence untill the Gentlemen abovementioned leave the Post when upon your being inform’d of it I should wish you to join & do duty with the Regt. If these Circumstances should not take place & there will be a sufficient No. of officers with the troops I have no Objection to your Visiting your friends for the Terms mentioned. I am Sir with esteem Your most Obedt Humble Servt