[10 Dec^r 1798 Major [undecipherable] his rela[tion?] [in?] of promotion] General Hamilton [Military 11] [application for continuance as a [undecipherable] [undecipherable] — [undecipherable] [undecipherable] Commander.] Philadelphia 10 Dec^r 1798 Sir The knowledge that my case is not un[undecipherable] perhaps may not be before the board of General Officers occasions me an uneasiness I cannot suppress and this will I am fearful make me appear importunate tho' it be so. I must beg an indulgence from the nature of my Situation — As I expressed my desire to the Secretary in writing that if the way to the regiment of Artillery was not given me to be considered as a Candidate for one of the twelve Regiments and as he has not presented me as a Candidate for one of the twelve I cannot help but think flattering myself with the Conclusion that he means [therefor?] me from the Command of the Regiment of Artillery according to my original application. The general ground of that [was?] clearly understood tho' not be affected by my acceptance of the majority. I beg permission to enclose the letter [undecipherable] [undecipherable] [undecipherable] for General Washington att the Statement of Circumstances, to be handed in as you may Judge most proper — [whatever?] may be the event [--] [my?] Services shall be rendered with care to the [utmost?] of my abilities with best Respects I Remain Sir Your Most ob^t & hum^ble Serv^t [undecipherable signature] General Hamilton