In Consequence of an Application from Major Barber in your behalf, & a Communication from him of the Benefits & advantage you have in prospect from a Tour to france—considering also that the present Stage of the War, may probably admit of your Absence from your military Duty, without Detriment; I have tho’t proper to signify to you my Approbation of your intended Voyage, and to consent to your leaving this Continent for the purposes mentioned to me—provided you first obtain the Liberty of Congress to sanctify your Absence—a measure which is indispensible. I am sir Your most Obedient humble Servant