Apologizes for disturbing Knox with this letter, refers to Knox as his benefactor, and insists that he writes out of necessity. Describes his impromptu joining of the campaign on the recent march from Massachusetts to New York, his lack of money, and his awkward position as neither an officer nor a soldier. Explains the dignity and honor of being well dressed and requests relief (meaning money). Assures Knox that he will not be one of the Continent's bad Bargains, explaining a common reference to those who have joined the service to amuse and gratify instead of for Howard's noble reasons: A thrift of Honor, the Defense of my Property, & the common Rights of Mankind. The property refers to six hundred acres described as valueless if the Americans lose. Howard also explains that a bout of consumption prevented his earlier enlistment.

Volume 8 of the Army University Large Scale Combat Operations series. The Competitive Advantage: Special Operations Forces in Large Scale Combat Operations presents twelve historical case studies of special operations forces from World War I through Operation Iraqi Freedom. This volume sheds light upon the emerging roles, missions, and unique capabilities that have forged a path for Army Special Operations Forces today. These case studies set Large Scale Combat Operations in the center and place ARSOF's role in the forefront. If a reader were to take one piece from this volume, it would be the clear understanding of the close synergy that occurs between the Conventional Force and SOF in Large Scale Combat Operations for major wars in the 20th and early 21st century. That synergy should provide a broad azimuth for military planners and practitioners to follow as the Army, SOF, and the Joint Force combine to preserve the peace, defend the Nation, and defeat any adversary.