We the Subscribing Authority; & other Inhabitants of the Town of Fairfield; tho’ sensible of the Hienious Crime of which Thomas Banks, a Soldier in Colo. Sheldons Regiment, has been Guilty, by deserting his Corps, yet confiding in your Excellency’s goodness, & from an Acquaintance with his Fathers Family, & Conneckions, as will as from a knowledge of his own Character heretofore, beg leave to implore your Excellency on his behalf: His Youth & Inexperience, added to the Compunction which he now shows for his past misconduct gives us reason to hope that his penitence is sincere, & to request that Your Excellency would extend a Pardon to him, if consistent with the good of the Public & the Discipline of the army—His Father will Procure a good Soldier to serve in his stead to the Acceptation of his Commanding Officer if your Excellency should consent to the measure.

The bearer, Mr Nathan Bradley, Can give your Excellency any further Information on this Head. We have the Honor to be with great respect & Esteem your Excellencys Most Obedt Servts