[Private] Baltimore, 6^th May 1792 / private / Dear Sir. I am honored by your private letter of the 3^d Instant, by the post, and think myself very highly complimented by the favorable opinion which you presume the President is pleased to entertain of my abilities — But, my dear Sir, I cou'd not, at this time, accept a command in the army, even if the President were to think me worthy of commanding in chief. My health, for more than two years, has been extremely precarious and still requires the most attentive care; the happiness of my family, which is most dear to me, must in case of my acceptance, be for a time suspended, if not sacrifised: and a charge, in which my integrity and affections are engaged, a charge of a member of Orphan Children and their estates, must be neglected. Under present circumstances I request to be excused for declining the honor, proposed to be conferred on me; and persuade myself that you will do me the justice to believe that when it is in my power to render any efficient Service to my Country I shall be most happy in the opportunity. With very great respect and Esteem I am Dear Sir Your humble Servant O. H. Williams [Addressed: Gen^l O. H. Williams / private / cannot accept of an appointment in y^e army.] [To: General Knox]