February

Feby.
I had the pleasure to receive letters from Bengal, in answer to those I wrote some time ago to my Friends Major Skelly and Capt. Madan; both of whom inform me, that they had spoke strongly in my favor to Earl Cornwallis respecting my claim to Promotion, and were favourably heard by him, so much so, that they are pleased to flatter me with a great likelihood of succeeding in my application; -- I cannot sufficiently acknowledge my obligation to both these Friends, who have exerted their interest so warmly in my favor; particularly Major Skelly, who has spared neither pains or trouble to forward my interest and Promotion; and the other (who from his connection to the Governor General had great interest with him - being Nephew to Lord Cornwallis) Capt. Madan, tho' not quite so old an acquaintance as Major Skelly; also exerted his influence and interest with His Lordship, in my favor in a very handsome manner. —

Source
Macquarie, Lachlan. Journal No. 1: 15 December 1787 – 24 March 1792.
Original held in the Mitchell Library, Sydney.
ML Ref: A768 pp.150–151. [Microfilm Reel CY299 Frame #81].