[Private] New York Dec^r 25. 1798 Dear Sir, I have been reflecting on the subject of an arrangement for the command of the 2 Regiment of Artillery. I believe on the whole you can do nothing better, than appoint Toussard who I understand is next in rank after Burbeck, to the command of the Regiment and major Hoops to the Inspectorship, conjidence, by halves is seldom wise. Toussard is in the service — delicate service has been and must be entrusted to him — his fidelity will be best secured by giving him a fair and equal chance, and shewing him that he is not suspected. I shall be much mistaken, if he does not prove to merit confidence. Hoops is very intelligent industrious and persevering — he also has a good deal of information. Perhaps he may have displeased by being sometimes importu-nate; but that ingredient in the character which may have led to this, as an indication of zeal and perseverance ought to be no objection to him Y^rs truly A Hamilton J. McHenry Esq^r.