Sir:

This is the third time (within fifteen months) that my regiment has been drafted, or rather taken from me to make commands for other officers, To supply the place of which I have been forced to take new levies. At present I have no hopes of making a command for myself, nor is it material. I shall expect to obtain leave of absence til a regiment is raised for me, or til some favourable opportunity to Join the service again. It is not probable I can, in my present Sircumstance, render any service to my Country, or would not wish to retire. My misfortunes have placed me in a horrid point of view, nor can I expect otherwise, when I am kept to collect and train men for others to command in the active part of the Campaign.

I beg your permition to return to Virginia for a few months unless I can be active.