[I 84] War Department 25 June 1799 Sir. I have the honour to annex a list of names of candidates for officers in the army, and to request, if approved, your sanction to inform the gentlemen of their respective appointments. As the record of candidates from Virginia affords but one mate, and three are required four, for the 8^th and 9^th Regiments, I have been obliged to select gentlemen whose pretentions being for a higher grade it is probable will not accept. Perhaps in such a case you may deem it proper to authorise me to make provisional appointments. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect, Sir, your most Ob^t & Hble S^t James McHenry John Adams President of the United States.