To George Washington from Rufus Putnam, 26 May 1782

Sir,	West Point May 26th 1782

Ensign Bancroft of the 5th Massachusetts Regiment, under my command since the reform of the Army Jany 1st 1781, having requested me to apply to your Excellency for his discharge. I take the Liberty to send his Commission by Major Ashley, & request that his desire may be granted.

I beg leave to observe that Mr Bancroft has served with much reputation, & I am fully convinced, that nothing but his very ill state of health would induce him to quit the service of his Country, especially at the opening of a Campaign.

He has been absent near a Year for the recovery of his health without any favorable Effect at present, or prospect of ever being able to perform Military duty. I have the honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble Servant

Rufus Putnam Col.

DNA: RG 93—Manuscript File.

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