W[ar] O[ffice] 5th March 1777.

Sir

I have taken into Consideration your Memorial requesting that a Warrant may be laid before the King for the Sum of One thousand, Six hundred & Sixty three pounds, fourteen shillings, & three pence, for reimbursing the extra expenses of the Augm[entation] in 1776, incurred by the 17th Reg[imen]t of light Dragoons. In Answer thereto, I have the honor to acquaint you, that I do not think myself authorized to grant Money in Aid of the Stock purse Fund, at the Same time to give you every Assistance in my power, I will, with your Approbation, take the King’s P[leasure] upon laying your Memorial before the reviewing Generals, and submit their determination to the Lord Com[mande]rs of the Treasury, for their direction thereupon.

I have the honor to be

Sir &c

Barrington

Major Gen[era]l Preston

[Source: David Library of the American Revolution, Microfilm Collection, P.R.O. W.O. 4/99, 106/212. As transcribed by Gilbert Riddle.]