Nicolas, Lewis, 1717-1807 to Henry Knox

Written by Colonel Nicola of the Invalid Regiment to Major General Knox. Was disappointed he could not meet up with Knox at West Point last Monday. Expresses his consternation about the reduction of his Invalid regiment by Congress and the Secretary of War. Claims that the authorities say "the men & officers were a great expence to the States, & from whose services there was little benefit derived." The men and officers are to be examined to discover their situations -- when it will be decided if they are to be discharged with a pension or without one and if they are return to the field or the hospital. Says the officers will either get half-pay starting 1 January or something more, depending on their merits and service. Is disappointed he will not be able to spend the winter under Knox's command. Is disappointed in the reason for discharging the regiment saying "Invalids are maintained by the publick not for services to be performed but for those that have been rendered." Hopes that those that can return to garrison duty will be given that opportunity. Claims that saying the public has not benefited from the Invalids is a comment based on misinformation. Goes into some of the hardships they endured in the war. Encloses a Philadelphia newspaper that talks of "a new scheme for the post office" (not included here).