[To Major General [undecipherable] Secretary at War Philadelphia] Newton 3^d June 1794. Sir, Mr John Patton of Watertown is desirous of an Appointment in the Army of the United States — He is a young Gentleman of good information, easy manners, and I should suppose, possesses talents necessary to make a good officer — He has been in the commercial line, and has been unfortunate — His misfortunes have depressed his spirits, and produced some irr[eg]. [undecipherable] of conduct — These irregularities have not become habitual, and I have not a doubt, but he would conduct with temperance and sobriety. I have the honor to be with the highest respect, your most obed^t Servt, William Hill Secretary at War.