[Philadelphia Jan^y 10. 1799. M^r George W.B. Custis Mount Vernon Virginia] [dated Jan^y 10^th 99] War Department, January 10^th 1799. Sir, I Have the honor to inform you that the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, has appointed you a Cornet in the army of the United States. You are requested to inform me, as soon as convenient, whether you accept or not the appointment, that I may notify the same to the President. To obviate misconception, it is proper to mention that a want of materials having prevented a complete nomination and appointment of the whole number of officers for the troops to be raised, the President has thought it adviseable to reserve the subject of their relative rank for future arrangement. I am, Sir, with respect, Your obedient servant, James McHenry M^r George W.B. Custis