HENRY LAURENS, "The Hon. Brigadier-General Cadwalader. "President of Congress," But not wishing to have it suggested, that I entered into the service at so late a period of the war for the sake of rank, as the French treaty had taken place, and I had conceived all offensive operations at an end, I declined the appointment in these terms. _Maryland, 19th September, 1778._ SIR,--I have the highest sense of the honour conferred upon me by Congress, in appointing me a Brigadier in the Continental service, with the command of the cavalry, more particularly as the voice of Congress was unanimous. I cannot consent to enter into the service at this time, as the war appears to me to be near the close. But should any misfortune give an unhappy turn to our affairs, I shall immediately apply to Congress for a command in the army. I have the honour to be, with the greatest regard and esteem, your excellency's most obedient humble servant, JOHN CADWALADER. His Excellency Henry Laurens, Esq., President of Congress. End of Project Gutenberg's Nuts for Future Historians to Crack, by Various