By the appointment of General Duportail to the office of Major General, I see that General Knox is greatly hurt—Congress now make a difficulty in giving him the same rank—I have reason to believe that one line from your Excellency would remove every objection—and be a means of retaining in service an officer, who if not now promoted, will be lost to us—I have the honor to be with every sentiment of esteem your Excelly most obedient & humbl servant