To George Washington from William Heath, 15 June 1782

I took the liberty once and again the last year to represent to your excellency, that the officers of the Massachusetts line thought themselves neglected in one of the brigades of the line of that state remaining so long without a brigadier, which not only deprived the officer of promotion whose right it is by the resolutions of the honorable the Congress, in that case passed and published; but also leaves a respectable brigade of troops unrepresented in councils of general officers, and of those advantages which might result to the brigade by having at all times the patronage and care of its brigadier. Having lately learnt that there are intentions of promoting some colonels in the army to the rank of brigadier, I am again constrained, in duty to the line of that state with whom I am particularly connected and have the honor of being its senior officer, to entreat your excellency to use your influence with the honorable the secretary at war, that a brigadier may be appointed to command the 3d Massachusetts brigade, and that colonel Greaton, whose right it is, may have the appointment. I have the honor to be, With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant