I have held since a few years a Military Employ in Calais in capacity of Lieutenant of Marshals of France. My family who enjoys in this country some fortune and consideration has always had the honour to serve her King and Country and I actually have two uncles Captains in the Infanterie and a Brother second lieutenant in the horse.

Family affairs of a particular nature rendering my stay at Calais in some manner impossible, I have taken a thorough resolution, and the more so, from the American war, to leave it for some time and seek service nigh the Congress, and to postpone my return in my family to some more happy time. I am aged 23, I understand military life, and I am instructed in mathematiks and drawing. I am perfect master of the English language as you may judge from this letter and I have acquired it by an exchange that general Douglas made in 1768 with my father of one of his sons with me. I think I may render myself usefull, and as the misfortunes I have met with are of such nature, as to require my absence for a few years and that I have resolved to pass over to America; I hope, honourable sir, that you will not refuse me the favour of a letter of Recommendation to the Congress, that may set me in a proper light and procure me some employ at my arrival there. I am not ambitious, and to serve is all I ask.

I beg honourable sir, you would take upon me and family all informations that you’ll judge neccessary to ascertain my honour, morals and conduct, they cannot be but extreamly favorable, as the resolution I have taken proceeds only from private and disagreable circumstances that concern no one but myself and to send me as soon as convenient proper recommendation for the congress, in which I would be happy and gratefull if you would mention my employ and that of my uncles and Brother. ~y2

As preparations necessary for my positive departure will require some absence from Calais I beg the favour to direct your letter and Reccommendation for me under cover to Mde. Madame Ducroq au coin de la place royale près le Caffé bourgeois a Calais, as that person does my business in absence.

I Remain with the most profound Respect Honorable Sir Your most humble and most obedient devoted servant