[Letter to J^o McHenry Esq^r Sec^y at War 25^th July 1798 Informing Gen^t Hand of his Appointment as Major Gen^l in the Provisional Army] War Department 25^th July 1798 Sir, I am directed to inform you that the President of the United States, by, and with the advice and consent of the Senate has appointed you a Major General of the provisional army, and to transmit your your commission made out accordingly. It may be proper to mention that the nominations to the Senate for the general officers of the established and provisional army were presented on the same day, and in the order in which they appear in the annexed list, and that, in registering them in this department, the same order will be observed. Permit me to flatter myself that all considerations of a private nature will yield to the cause, and afford me the pleasure of communicating your acceptance to the President. I am, sir, with great respect your most Ob^t & Ser^t James McHenry Gen^l E. gHand