James Babcock to George Washington

August 22, 1775

Rhode Island Camp on Prospect Hill

To His Excellency General Washington,

 Letter to George Washington from James Babcock

May it please your Excellency,

          The Subscriber is under the disagreeable necessity of applying to your honor for a discharge from the service by reason of the indisposition that attends his bodily health.

          The cause we are embarked in is the Cause of Mankind, and which was ever great in my Esteem, but must of necessity ask a discharge for the Reason above inserted.

                   I am with due respect your Excellency’s most obedient and humble Servant.

                                      James Babcock, Lieut.

                                      Col. Varnum’s Reg.