I have received the Letter you was pleased to address to me on the 28th of Janry.

I beg you will be persuaded, Sir, that I have not accustomed myself to form opinions upon partial representations, or reports of any kind whatever, until the characters concerned have had an opportunity of contradicting & refuting them—it was not because I gave implicit credence to that part of Capt. Macomber’s report which affected your reputation, that I enclosed it without alteration to the President of Congress; but because it came into my hands from the Officer Commandg in the Northern Departm. officially, and I thought your own reputation & my duty required, that I should Act on the matter, as I have done.

You may be assured, Sir, that No apology was necessary for your application, and that I am with due regard Your Most Obed. Hble Servt.