Lancaster Decem. 29th 1788

J. Howell, esq. Dear Friend If you remember when I had the pleasure of being with you last in the settling of my accounts you advised me not to settle for one year’s services as a compensation to the officers of the American army. I have been since informed that a number of the Officers who were in my then situation as a prisoner, were allowed the same pay as the then supernumerary officers of the army. I therfore flatter myself and rest assured that you will do every thing in your power, in order that some compensation may be made to me, which I think in justice I am entitled to. After my captivity I recruited a number of soldiers for the United States, at my own expense, for which I not as yet been allowed a farthing–also my losses in being a prisoner were very great viz. about sixty pounds in cash all my clothing cont. Camp equippage etc. which is also very well known to you. I wrote you some time ago, but have not as yet had the pleasure of receiving an answer. I therefore should esteem it a particular favor if you would be pleased to write to me by the first opportunity and direct to [undecipherable] Ashton & Wistar merchants in Philadelphia - should have done myself the pleasure of paying you a visit long before this time but being very much troubled with reumatic pain prevented me, and in complyingwith the within request you will much oblige.

                              Your friend
                              Abraham Dehuff