John Armistead to Thomas Mann Randolph
| Dear Colo, | Fort powhatan Jany 21st 1815 |
The legislature having past a Law for raising troops It becomes necessary that applycations for Commissions should be immediately made and as Its my wish to continue in the Service, and having Served under you am induced to make the following request. If in your opinion I deserve the Same, (ie a letter of introduction or rather a recommendation to the executive,)1 I aspire to the Command of Major of Artillery or Cavalry But if you should not think I merit a Commission of that grade will be obliged to you for any you may think I merit (If merit is due) If this Should meet your complyance, you will Confur a favour on me by directing the Same to Major Tompkins of Richmond who I have requested to lay before the Counci[l]