Der Erbprinz von Hessen an den Earl v. Suffolk.
(S. P. O. German States, Vol. 104.)
Hanau, 1. May 1776.
My Lord!
The luck I have had to be able to show in some manner my utmost
respect and gratitude to the best of Kings by offering my troops to
His Majesty's service gives me a very agreeable opportunity of
thanking you, Mylord, for all your kindness and friendship to me
upon that occasion and begging your pardon for all the trouble I
may have provided you in this regard.
My only wishes are that all the officers and soldiers of my
regiment, now to His Majesty's ordres, may be animated of the same
respectful attachment and utmost zeal I shall ever bear for the
king, my generous protector and magnanimous support. May the end
they shall fight for answer to the kings upper contentment, and
your laudable endeavors, My Lord, be granted by the most happiest
issue. The continuation of your friendship to me, Sir, which I
desire very much assures your goodnes and protection to my troops.
I ask in their names this favor from you and hope they will deserve
it.
Excuse me, Sir, if I am not strong enough in the English language
for to explain as I should the utmost consideration and sincere
esteem with which I am for ever, Mylord, your most humble and very
obedient servant
_William H. P. of Hesse._