The President of the United States

Letter of Gen Knox President Washington [undecipherable] of the War Department Philadelphia 28th December 1794 Sir In pursuance of the verbal communications heretofore submitted, it is with the utmost respect, that I beg leave officially To request, you will please to confides that after the last day of the present month and year my services as Secretary for the department of War will cease. I have endevored to place the business of the department in such a train that my successor may without much difficulty commence the duties of his Station. Any expectations, or assistance which he may require than be cordially afforded by me. After serving proud my Country nearly twenty years, the g[undecipherable] of which under your immediate auspices auspices [entire line undecipherable–page cut off] myself constained to withdraw from so honorable a situation But the indispensbile claims of a wise and a young and numbers family of children whose sole hopes of comfortable competence rest upon my life and exertions, with no longer permit me to neglect duties so sacred. But in whatever situation I have so, I shall recollect your confidence and kindness with all the fever and purity of affection of which a grateful sevt can be susceptible I have the honor Sir to be with the highest respect Your most obedient Servant HoKnox The President of the United States.