My dictation:

 

Accepting the command in the army

You may believe me, when I assure you in the most solemn manner, that so far from seeking this employment, I have used every effort in my power to avoid it, not only from my unwillingness to part with you and the family, but from the consciousness of its being a trust too great for my capacity, and I should enjoy more real happiness in one month with you at home than I have the most distant prospect of finding abroad, if my stay would be seven times seven years. But as has been kind of destiny that has thrown me upon the service, I shall hope that my undertaking it is designed to answer some good purpose.

I shall rely confidently on that Providence which has herefore preserved and been bountiful for me. No doubting but I shall return safely to you in the fall. I shall feel no pain from the toil or the danger in the champagne. My unhappiness would flow from uneasiness I know you will feel for being left alone. I therefore beg you will summon your whole fortitude and pass your time as agreeably as possible. Nothing will give me so much sincere satisfaction as to hear this and to hear it from you own pen.