War Office 23 Dec. 1796. Sir, I have received your letter of the 12^th instant. — I take the liberty to mention to you, to prevent any misunderstanding, in future, from the indulgence you have experienced on a late occasion; that, Col. Rochefontaine had a right to order you to Oswego, and altho' you had a right to present your resignation for acceptance, you subjected yourself nevertheless to the consequences of a court martial, for disobedience of orders. Were it proper for an officer to discharge himself from his obligations, by the simple act of enclosing his commission, and resignation to the Secretary of War, it would be in the power of individuals, to mar the best concerted measures, and dissolve, at any time, the army. I am however persuaded that your conduct in the instance which has occasioned these reflexions, resulted from a hasty view of the subject, and from no intention to disobey a legal command. With respect, I am Sir, Your ob^t. Serv^t. James McHenry Doctr. Samuel Osborn. [undecipherable]