[undecipherable] [31] Sir [undecipherable] o Aug^t 1793 I have received your [undecipherable] of the 25^th of April and have communicated the matters of [undecipherable] as much attention as will be necessary to give an answer to your [undecipherable]. I shall however consider as the only true mode of examination in the [undecipherable] Sources [undecipherable] made in the last [undecipherable] many [undecipherable] [and?] are to be taken into consideration as [hereafter?] evidence of merit [undecipherable] may at any time be set aside by coming from Sources [undecipherable] [undecipherable] for [the?] [time?] of peace. I think ought not to be forgotten or neglected for they are [undecipherable] of more [absolute?] Consequence to the public than military services. The [undecipherable] I think ought not to be [taken?] with any [positive?] [undecipherable] of [undecipherable]. The right, authority [undecipherable] [undecipherable] to depart from the line of reception in clear cases of unusual merit of extraordinary services or uncommon talents; ought always to be [undecipherable] & maintained. It [undecipherable] to be held up to the men of the army. Inclosed is a Letter from Joseph [undecipherable] recommending [undecipherable] to be Lieutenant. [Another?] from [undecipherable] soliciting some appointment. [Another?] from [undecipherable] [asking?] a captaincy of infantry. [Another?] from Gen [undecipherable] recommending [undecipherable]. [Another?] from [undecipherable]. I [would?] am not able to read such letters without strong emotions. As [the?] however [undecipherable] be deemed to be [confidential?] with me. I pray you to return it to me. I have the honor to be Sir your most humble [undecipherable] [undecipherable] at [undecipherable]