Head Quarters, August 28, 1782.

    Sir: I have been favored with your private Letter of the 26th. In forming my Arrangement of Commands for the Army's taking the field, not knowg how long the Proceedgs of Congress on your Trial might be delayed, and not findg any other Command so proper for M Genl Knox, under present Circumstances, as that of West point, where the Corps of Artillery, [ordnance and Mility Stores] are to remain, and where his Attention in the particular Line of his Duty may be usefull, I concluded to assign that post to him.

    The Resolution of Congress on your Trial, being now come to Hand, and to be published in this Days Orders, I have assigned to you the Command of One Division of the Army composed of [the 2 Connt Brigades] which I hope will be agreeable to you.

    I am very sorry for the disagreeable Situation in which you find your private Affairs; but as the Army will take their first position on Verplanks point, where they will probably remain for some Time; and as the Operations of the Campaign will probably be rather inactive, you may have the Opportunity for some Time at least, of drawg from your Farm at Robinsons, all the Advantages for your Support at Verplanks, that you would receive at West point.

    If your Health is on such a footg as not to admit your takg the Field, I should not expect, nor do I wish you to move with the Army; in which Case you will be at Liberty to remain in such place as you shall think most beneficial and convenient. [I am &c.] ¹²

[Note:The draft is in the writing of Jonathan Trumbull, jr. The words in brackets are in the writing of Washington. ]