[J Howell esq^r —] Richmond Dec^r 19. 1798 157 Dear Howell You will find from the within papers that I now by have to intercede for a faithful and brave foldier, whose claims remains unadjusted. The same little favor — to the papers I refer you, and will only add, that the claim was presented me as mentioned, that had it been lodged from July to August would have been allowed to send it forward, the failure not being seen in time prevented its being again presented and sent — upon the whole from the merits of the claim — the real intention of limitation, & your disposition to do justice particularly to a faithful foldier, I trust you can very readily dispense with the rule of Office, and consider this claim entitled to notice; and issue your certificates accordingly so to the passing a receipt, by the papers Col^t Gamble is vested with a power, and which he has turned over to me. I would therefore beg the favor of any Gentlemen in your Office to sign the receipt and this letter may be filed as authority for so doing & if you to send the same to me that I may forward them to the foldier — If this will not do please to inform me the requisites and I will write for them to be furnished — I am with real regard your friend A. Dunscomb