The third of June last I wrote your Excellency requesting leave to retire with the benefits allowed by the Honble the Congress to the reduced Officers. and mentioned some of my pretentions as colonel of Engineers I am informed, that, that matter has not been fully taken up by Congress, only so far as to refer it to the minister of war. I can not from any dislike to the cause, or to the service of the war wish to retire, but at the same time I am diffident of my ability not having an education (equal or) necessary for a Colo. of Engineers, which alone is the inducement for me to renew my application to retire with the benefits of half pay, &c. and request your Excellency to permit me to go to Philadelphia to Settle my Publick accounts. I am your Excellencys most Obedient Humble Servant