[Received & answered July 12^th 1799] War Department June 26 1799 Sir I have the honor to inform you that the President has appointed you a Major in the fifth Regiment of Infantry, in the army of the United States and should the Senate approve thereof at their next session, that you will be commissioned accordingly. Your pay and emoluments will commence from the date of your letter of acceptance. Major General Hamilton being charged with the recruiting Service, you will hold yourself in readiness, should you accept, to obey such orders or instructions as may be transmitted to you directly from him, or through your commanding officer. I am Sir, with respects, Your obedient servant James McHenry Henry Middleton Rutledge Esq^r