I beg Pardon as an entire Stranger for the Liberty of this Address; But the subsequent Explanation I hope will in some measure excuse me.

Having Commanded a Company of Europeans in the East India Companys Service, and my Circumstances requiring that I should again seek an Active Situation, I set out last July recommended to Sir William Howe with the expectation of obtaining a quick succession to Rank in the Provintial Corps: which Rank it was my Intention to have established in the East in Case of a future opportunity; a Design however that has been frustrated by the Malice displayed in the inclosed Pamphlet, and a Report propagated after my arrival at Philadelphia That I wanted to get to General Washingtons Army.

On the last ground I was confined in the Provost Guard among many other suspected Gentlemen, Inhabitants of Philadelphia; and without being permitted to confront my Accuser, have been sent back to England.

Thus circumstanced, Sir, my Friends and the East India Company’s Service being alike inaccessible, Necessity and Resentment at once prompt me to offer my Services to the united States of America, hopefull that you will inable me to return thither with the first opportunity.

I well know, Sir, that in this occasion my personal Attendence would have been much more respectfull and proper: but being very short of Money it was not in my power to accomplish the Journey, wherefore, I have adopted this Mode of Application, intending to wait here for the favour of your Reply ’till Thursday or Friday next, when, if I am so happy as to meet with your Protection and Assistance I shall do myself the Honour to obey Your Commands with the utmost dispatch.

I have the Honour to be Sir, Your most obedient and most devoted Humble Servant,