Title: To George Washington from Lewis Nicola, 24 May 1782
From: Nicola, Lewis
To: Washington, George

                            Sr
                            Fishkill 24 May 1782

                        Greatly oppressed in mind & distressed at having been the means of giving your Excellency one moments
                            uneasiness, I find myself under the necessity of relying on your goodness to pardon my further troubling you by
                            endeavouring, if possible, to remove every unfavourable impression that lies in your breast to my prejudice. Alway anxious
                            to stand fair in the opinion of good men the idea of your thinking me capable of acting or abetting any villainy must make
                            me very unhappy.
                        I solemnly assure your Excellency I have neither been the broacher, or in any shape the encourager of the
                            design not to separate at the peace ’till all grievances are redressed, but have often heard it mentioned either directly
                            or by hints.
                        From sundry resolves of Congress favourable to the army, but which that Honbe Body has not been able to
                            execute, persons who only see what swims on the surface have laid the blame at their door & therefore lost all
                            confidence in promises, how far this bad impression may affect the larger part of the army I cannot say, but should it
                            operate considerably at the conclusion of the war, it may be expected that all obligations shall be immediately
                            discharged, the possibility of which I much doubt, therefore I took the liberty of mentioning what I thought would be a
                            compromise, bidding fair to be satisfactory to one side and not disadvantageous to the other.
                        Deprived by misfortunes of that patrimony I was born to, and, with a numerous family, depending entirely on
                            my military appointments, when these have failed the tender feelings of a husband and father, seeing his family often
                            destitute of the common necessaries of life, have pierced my soul, these feelings often repeated & fraught with
                            anxiety for the future may have sowered my mind & warped my judgment, but in the most sacred manner I protest that
                            had I influence & abilities equal to the task, the idea of occasioning any commotions in a country I lived in
                            would be daggers in my breast, and I should think myself accountable at the grand tribunal for all the mischiefs that
                            might ensue. Was it my fate to live under a government I thought unsupportable I would look on retiring to some other as
                            the only justifiable means I could pursue.
                        As to my opinion on different forms of government, if it be erroneous, I assure you the fault is owing to a
                            defect in judgment not a willful shutting my eyes to the light of reason.
                        However wrong the sentiments I have disclosed to your Excellency may be, they cannot have done any mischief,
                            as they have always remained locked up in my breast.
                        My mind was so disturbed at the perusal of your Excellencies letter that I do not well know what answer I
                            returned, if there was anything improper in it I must trust to your humanity for pardon, & request you will
                            believe me with unfeigned respect. Sr Your Excellencies Most obedt Servant

                            Lewis Nicola Col. Inv.


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 24 May 1782
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Hartford 24th May 1782

                        This will be delivered by Mr Aaron Olmstead—who came to sollicite for Prisoners on board the Prison ship at
                            New York—he is anxious for a Brother who is among them—they are treated with great Cruelty—We have a Number of
                            Prisoners—the Enemy refuse to exchange—I wish some Mode for the relief of the poor sufferers—and do recomend Mr Olmstead
                            to your kind notice and direction. I am with great Esteem and regard Your Excellency’s most Obedient & hble Servant

                            Jonth; Trumbull


Title: General Orders, 25 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Saturday May. 25. 82.
                            Parole C. Signs

                        The first Brigade of Massachusetts is to Encamp on the ground formerly occupied by the Pennsylvanians near
                            Moores House—The Deputy Quarter Master will furnish straw for the Troops when they go into Tents.


Title: To George Washington from Archibald Cary, 25 May 1782
From: Cary, Archibald
To: Washington, George

                            My Dear Sir,
                            May 25th, 1782. Richmond.

                        Nothing but the Situation your old Acquaintance Mrs Cary was in, whilst you were in Virginia could have
                            justified me in not paying my respects in Person to you. She lingerd on to the last of November, when I had the Misfortune
                            of Loseing her.
                        An immediate opportunany Offers to Philadelphia, and I do my Self the Honor of incloseing you Sundery
                            resolutions this day Enterd in to by both Houses of Assembly—The Letter you wrote the Governor respecting the Measures
                            taken by Great Britain gave rise to them, And they point out to You that the Assembly Entertain the same opinion which you
                            have given as yours.
                        I Am Happy to give it as my opinion that we have a better Assembly than we have had for Several Years, and of
                            Consequence we may Hope they will Exert Every Power of the State for Support of the Common Cause, with so Much Propriaty
                            Urged in Your Letter. Pray God I may live to see you (when haveing Conquerd our Enemies) Enjoy the Blessings of Peace in
                            this Your Native Country. I have the Honor to Subscribe my Self Your Affte Friend & Hble Servt

                            Archd Cary


Title: From George Washington to Elias Dayton, 25 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

                            Sir,
                            Hd Qr. 25 May 1782

                        After maturely considering the Circumstances that attend the communication with Mr  & the little advantages that have originated from it I am Induced to belive that
                            he is acting a double Part for private & self interestd Purposes, if nothing more in View by it and that he is
                            conducting it in such a manner as to render it almost impossible for you to detect him, this with other particular Reasons
                            induces me to think it most advisable to bring his affairs to a Crisis by availing myself of his offers and the advantages
                            that present themselves for the purpose.
                        Colo. Ogden has forwarded to me a Plan to accomplish the matter referr’d to which has met with my approbation
                            & he has recd my order to carry it into execution—you will therefore please to permit him to march his Regt from
                            your Camp at such Time & in such Manner as may appear to him most proper & that you will afford him every other assistance that may be in
                            your power & consistant with the good of the service. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 25 May 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Highlands, May 25. 1782.

                        The enclosed packet from Sir Guy Carlton came to hand the last evening.
                        I also take the liberty to enclose a letter from captain Pray and some papers sent up by him. The British
                            officers, their servants and baggage are now waiting at Dobbs ferry. Conceiving the granting of flags to be the sole right
                            of the commander in chief, I dare not give one until your pleasure is known, which I request by the return of the bearer.
                            As the officers have come much further than they expected, they will be very impatient to have an answer. I request their
                            papers may be returned by the bearer. As Dobbs ferry is now made the only channel of communication for flags, I wish your
                            direction for future conduct with respect to officers who come under similar circumstances, as it is probable there will
                            be many.
                        Colonel Putnam wishes to send a serjeant to Massachusetts on business for the regiment, if your Excellency
                            has no objections. I have the honor to be, With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from William Moore, 25 May 1782
From: Moore, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            In Council Philadelphia May 25th 1782

                        Your Excellency’s letter of the fourth instant, with the Postscript of the eighth, has been read in Council,
                            and considered with that attention, which is due to the observations of a General, whose measures have on all occasions
                            been dictated by the purest patriotism, and therefore stand in need of no apology.
                        After using every means in our power, we have fallen greatly short of the number of Recruits we hoped to have
                            obtained. This has greatly distressed us, as we are fully sensible of the immense importance of a powerful army, during
                            the ensuing Campaign, and we should be happy in embracing any opportunity that could afford a reasonable hope of adding to
                            the number of our soldiers in the field, which we however have very little prospect of, altho’ we have made it a point to
                            appropriate the monies of the state, to this, as a first, and great object. In this line, it only remains in our power to
                            give your Excellency every aid which the Militia of the state will afford, and we have therefore issued an order to the
                            Militia, to hold themselves in readiness to march at the shortest notice, which we expect will produce one hundred and
                            fifty Horse, two hundred and fifty artillery, and between three and four thousand infantry.
                        With respect to money matters, we are happy to assure your Excellency that this Council are unanimous, in a
                            determination to use their utmost endeavours, to inforce the laws passed by the state, for the purpose of raising our
                            Quota, for the present year, and vigorous measures will be accordingly adopted and pursued. We have some reason to think
                            the Superintendant of finance will do us the justice to say, we have chearfully and readily given him every aid in our
                            power, and your Excellency may be assured that this disposition continues in its full force.
                        We shall at all times thank your Excellency for a free communication of your sentiments, on every occasion. I
                            have the honor to be with the greatest esteem and regard Your Excellencys Most obedient and very humble servant

                            Wm Moore President


Title: To George Washington from Peter Muhlenberg, 25 May 1782
From: Muhlenberg, Peter
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Richmond May 25th 1782

                        I did myself the Honor to inclose Your Excellency a return by the last post of the troops at Cumberland;
                            since that time a detachment from the Eastern Shore has got in, The return I do myself the Honor to inclose—I flatter
                            myself as soon as the promis’d Clothing arrives that I shall be able to equip & send in 200 Men.
                        The House of Assembly are now sitting, but have done nothing of consequence yet, but
                                entering into some Spirited resolves against any private negotiations with the Enemy, or
                            negotiations of any kind contrary to our alliances & foederal union—They likewise resolve to exert the whole
                            power of the State against the Enemy this Campaign—There are letters in Town from General Greene dated the 6th of this
                            Month, but contain nothing new. I have the Honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt humble
                            servant

                            P. Muhlenberg


Title: From George Washington to Matthias Ogden, 25 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Ogden, Matthias

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters May 25th 1782

                        The plan as proposed to me by you thro’ Capt. Ogden appears eligible, you have therefore my permission to
                            carry it into execution.
                        Colo. Dayton has my order to permit you to march your Regiment from Camp at such time & in such
                            manner as may appear to you most eligible.
                        Capt. Ogden will deliver to you my sentiments upon the affair more fully than it would be proper for me to
                            commit to paper. I can only request you to be particularly guarded against deception, and hope the plan will succeed to
                            your wishes.

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Comfort Sands, 25 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Sands, Comfort

                            Sir,
                            Newburgh 25th May 82

                         I have this moment received a Letter from General Heath of which the inclosed is a Copy. Why Sir are the
                            Troops without Provisions? Why are the deposits which have so often, and so long ago been required by General Heath, and
                            pressed by myself, neglected? Why do you so pertinatiously adhere to all those parts of the Contracts as are promotive of
                            your own Interest & convenience (several of which from the plain import, and natural meaning of the words—and were
                            these out of the question—from usage & custom in like cases) you cannot be justifiedly, and at the same time
                            disregard the most essential claims of the public; there by hazarding the dissolution of the Army—& risking the
                            loss of the most important Post in America? Is it because it is a little more expensive to keep a stock of Cattle on hand
                            at Pasture than to slaughter them one by one as they arrive? Is it because it suited your interest & convenience
                            better to delay making the deposits of Salt Provision &ca at West point to a more convenient season that that
                            important Post has stood, and now stands in jeopardy? and is it to these causes I am to attribute the want of Vinegar (so
                            essential to the health of the Army) and other breaches of your Contract?
                        I am very sorry to find myself under the necessity of informing you, that there are two parts to these
                            contracts and that while you seem so well disposed to exact, with great rigidness, the fulfilment of the one, it becomes
                            my duty to look to the performance of the other. I am further to observe to you, that the Contract for the, moving Army
                            does not exonerate, the contractor for West point & its dependencies from the performance of any, & every
                            clause which was designed for the benefit of the Garrisons of them. I mention this, because I am informed your Issuers are
                            disposed to apply all the advantageous parts (for the Contracter) of the Contract for the moving Army, to the injury
                            & inconvenience of those who are to be supplied under the latter; which can be attempted under the rule of reason
                            or Justice that I am acquainted with & must be the effort of an improper spirit. I am Sir Yr Most Obt Ser.

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 26 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters, Newburgh May 26th 1782

                        I have received your Letter of the 25th containing the Dispatches from Sir Guy Carleton; and the other Papers
                            mentioned therein. I return those belonging to the British Officers on Parole at Dobbs Ferry, who may be permitted to go
                            into the Enemy’s Lines—In future you will be pleased in the first instance to grant Flags to all such Persons as shall
                            have Passports for the purpose from Congress, the Secretary at War, or the Executive of any of the States; all other
                            applications are to be referred to me.
                        Colonel Putnam may send a Sergt to Massachusetts as requested, but his expence is not be defrayed by the
                            Public.
                        Mr Aaron Olmsted (who goes down the River by this conveyance) has permission to proceed with a Flag to the
                            Enemys Lines to enquire for & obtain the release of his brother, who is on board a prison ship at New York—it
                            rests with the Enemy to suffer him to go in, or not.
                        Yours of this day, with the German Deserter have just arrived. I am Dear Sir With great regard Your Most
                            Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Rufus Putnam, 26 May 1782
From: Putnam, Rufus
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            West Point May 26th 1782

                        Ensign Bancroft of the 5th Massachusetts Regiment, under my command since the reform of the Army Jany 1st
                            1781, having requested me to apply to your Excellency for his discharge. I take the Liberty to send his Commission by
                            Major Ashley, & request that his desire may be granted.
                        I beg leave to observe that Mr Bancroft has served with much reputation, & I am fully convinced, that
                            nothing but his very ill state of health would induce him to quit the service of his Country, especially at the opening of
                            a Campaign.
                        He has been absent near a Year for the recovery of his health without any favorable Effect at present, or
                            prospect of ever being able to perform Military duty. I have the honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellency’s
                            most obedient and very humble Servant

                            Rufus Putnam Col.


Title: To George Washington from James Gordon, 27 May 1782
From: Gordon, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Lancaster 27th May 1782

                        It is with astonishment I read a Letter from your Excellency, dated 18th May, directed to Brigadier General
                            Hazen, Commanding at this Post, ordering him to send a British Captain, taken at York–town by Capitulation, with My Lord
                            Cornwallis, Prisoner to Philadelphia, where ’tis said he is to suffer an ignominious Death, in the room of Captn Huddy an
                            American Officer, who was murder’d by a Lawless Banditti, calling themselves Refugees.
                        As this is, in Direct Violation of the Articles of Capitulation of the Garrison’s of York and Glocester, which
                            your Excellency signs first, as Commander in Chief of the Combin’d Forces of America and France, the 14th Article of which,
                            expressly says "That no Articles of the Capitulation are to be infring’d on Pretext of Reprisals,
                            and if there be any doubtfull Expressions in it, they are to be interpreted according to the common meaning and
                            acceptation of the Words.” I therefore, in the Name of my Royal Master George the Third, King of Great Britain, Demand of
                            Your Excellency, that you will order Captian Asgill of the Brigade of Guards to be discharged from his Confinement, and
                            admitted to the same Parole, as the Other Officers of my Lord Cornwallis’s Army. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s
                            Most Obedt & most Humle Servt

                            James Gordon
                            Major 80 Regt & Field Officer
                            with the British Prison.


Title: From William Stephens Smith to Ebenezer Hazard, 27 May 1782
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Hazard, Ebenezer

                            Sir.
                            Head Quarters 27th May 1782

                        The General has rece’d yours of 22d Instant requesting his opinion of Kakiat as a Place of Safety for the
                            Mails to remain at one night.
                        He desires me to inform you that it will by no means answer, the risk being evidently too great as it is
                            considerably advanced of any post that we occupy in that Part of the Country. I am Sir Your most obedt Humble Servt

                            W.S.S.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 27 May 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Highlands May 27. 1782.

                        I was the last evening honored with yours of the 26th. Your Excellency’s directions respecting flags shall be
                            strictly observed.
                        Major Campbell, assistant deputy-quartermaster, has applied to me this morning to know whether the
                            contractors are to have the possession and use of the public issuing store, slaughter-house, and bake-house at the
                            Continental village, with the scales, weights, kettle, and other implements of the stores, and who is to be accountable
                            for the ground-rent on which the stores stand. I am not able to determine the matter, not having seen the contract, and
                            must request your Excellency’s determination on the matter.
                        I cannot but again express the uneasiness which I feel on account of the empty state of the magazines of
                            provisions. The old provisions have been taken out and issued, and others are not deposited to replace them.
                        In obedience to your Excellency’s order of the 16th I convened the brigadiers and officers commanding
                            brigades, and consulted them on the quantity of liquor in kind necessary to be issued to the troops; they were of opinion
                            that it wil be best to issue four jills per week, and retain three jills, which they wished to have commuted with the
                            contractors for peas and bread, to operate till the 20th of July next, which was two months from the day of their meeting
                            the 20th instant. The officers were of opinion that in the course of two months some circumstances might render another
                            alteration eligible. Immediately after the meeting of the officers, I wrote Mr Sands and requested him to call at my
                            quarters in order to have the matter fully settled. He wrote me he would call in a day or two—he has not as yet. The
                            present shortness of provisions, and preparations for the celebration of the birth of the Dauphin of France, I suppose
                            occupy his whole time. When I can see him the business of the commutation shall be concluded if possible; but I
                            apprehended he will estimate the peas too high—and the contract does not, I think mention that species of vegetable or fix
                            the price of them. I have the honor to be With the highest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Robert R. Livingston, 27 May 1782
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Philadelphia 27th May 1782

                        I was yesterday honoured with your favours of the 22d instant, I have not seen the express that brought them,
                            & know not whether he is yet returned, I shall commit this to the care of Genl Lincoln to see it safely forwarded.
                            The British are at length sufficiently humbled to sue for peace tho not in the line we wish they seem to part with every
                            thing more readily than with America. They have proposed to France to permit the reestablishment of the port of Dunkerque,
                            to meet upon the footing of a statu quo in the West Indies, & to grant them some advantages in the East Indies.
                        To these proposals made directly to the Cte De Vergennes he replied that France would easily be satisfied if
                            the points which her allies might insist upon were one discussed & determined, but that she would in no event
                            treat without them. While they were making these proffers  to France, they opened a correspondence with Docr Franklin on
                            the subject of a peace with America; & they sent an agent about the 20th of March, to learn from Mr Adams whether
                            he had any commission enabling him to treat of a truce with G:B: declaring that if they had not feared to be exposed, or
                            ill treated, Genl Conway or some other person of high rank would have been sent—Both of these ministers wisely objected
                            to any communications that did not lead to a general peace. I have not received any Letter from the Marquis de Lafayette
                            for your Excellency, But inclose an extract from one that I have received dated the 30th March. I believe he wishes me to
                            be in some sort the channel of information to you as he hints to me that he has no good cypher settled with you, I have
                            translated it for your greater convenience. You will find from it that our pecuniary aids are much smaller than we
                            expected, perhaps it may be necessary to explain the words additional livres by informing you,
                            that they have made a grant for this year of 6000000 of Livres beyond what we borrowed last year, but this as well as the
                            remainder of the last years loan, is nearly absorbed by old debts & the purchase of necessaries for the army, so that
                            very little of it will be brought to this country. None of our Letters mention the plan of the ensuing campaign, which
                            indeed does not appear to be absolutely settled. perhaps you may have some letter from the Marquis which is more explicit.
                            all I know of it is several declarations made by the Count De Vergennes in different Letters, that tho the plan of the
                            campaign was not absolutely decided yet they had it in view to afford us assistance in expeling the enemy from New York
                            & Charles town. I fear with you that this is a secondary object & that it will in some measure depend upon
                            the operations in the West Indies. But I do not give much credit to the New York account of the action between the fleets.
                            I believe upon comparing all circumstances there is reason to conclude that a very severe engagement has taken place
                            & that both sides claim the victory, both must have gone to leeward, from our being able to get no distinct
                            information, tho’ so many vessels have arrived from the windward islands since the action. Nothing can be more just than
                            your observations on the danger which may attend a fond belief that peace is at hand. This delusion should be combated by
                            every means in our power, least it cause us to neglect  those that are now in our power of expelling the enemy &
                            commanding that peace which we wish for: Congress have, upon this principle, directed two delegates to go to each of the
                            States, in order to urge them to timely & vigorous exertions, if any can be called timely, which are delayed even
                            to this day. I should have informed you, that Mr Adams had, on the last of march, the highest expectations of being
                            acknowledged in a few weeks by the United provinces. The prince of Orange finding it impossible longer to stem the torrent
                            had determined to yield to it. Spain still lingers on at her old rate. If she ever does us a favor it will loose its grace
                            by the manner in which it is done. I have the honor to be Dear Sir with the greatest respect & Esteem Your
                            Excellencys Most Obt hum: Servt

                            Robt R. Livingston

                     Enclosure

                                    30th March 1782

                            With regard to Spain, I have a letter from Mr Jay whose negotiations do not advance, and it is thefault of the Spainiards— After having conferred on the subject with Dr Franklin, I delivereda memorial to theFrench ministry, wherein  I
                                represented the conduct of the Court of Madrid from the point of view which appeared to me best calculatedto shew their wrongs, I concluded by saying that it would be unjust  to accuse the Americans with delays which must be
                                attributed only to Spanish slowness—This government appears to me convinced of our difficulties we lay under in treating with the Count of Madrid
                                ; Dr Franklin accepted  some bills of exchange drawn on Spain—You will learn of the  Chevalier
                                de la Luzerne that a Mr Forthhas come  from England to Paris, he has spoken to the Count de Vergennes, has hinted that
                                advantages could be made to France, &c.—The answer of theCount de Vergennes has been conformable to what  he had already declared: that France
                                would never treat without her allies—Mr Forth is returned to London—This proves that independence is still with them the only
                                obstacle to a peace, they will probably endeavour to make insidious proposals  to America, & I wish it for my part,
                                 that  Congress may have a new opportunity of speaking to them with firmness & generosity. I was very satisfied
                                with Cte de Vergennes’s answer— Let all this be a secret until the Chevr de La Luzerne shall tell  you of it—I beg you will tell Mr Morris that I have not yet been able to procure  an addition to the millions of livres for
                                this year, but I look for a proper opportunity, which I shall not suffer  escape. I have written to Mr Morris
                                that I do not believe that the desired sum will be entirely fulfilled. I shall embrace with that patriotic Zeal which attaches me to the United States al the opportunities of direction the operations towards the Continent,
                                & of getting a little more money, as well as all those of  serving our Cause in case the English should be willing to treat in earnest — I believe I must still  remain here some time, & I think  Congress will approve of my conduct.
                            The dispositions of the King & ministery of France as well as of the French nation are such as we
                                can wish for, I speak without prejudice,France is the only true friend on whom America should rely in Europe—The
                                state of affairs is so uncertain, that we must now make greater exertions than ever , a good army in America will
                                bring on peace sooner than  can be imagined—The minority is not more our friend than the majority. The king of England is more
                                irritated than humiliated, he must then be well convinced  of the impossibility of conquering us; If this
                                campaign is carried on vigorously, it will certainly be the last.

                                    Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from John Montour, 27 May 1782
From: Montour, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            May 27th 1782

                        Having the Mortification to hold the Commission of a Captain in the Army of the United States, without the
                            Power of Rendering any Services to my Country where I am now posted; I have obtained Brigadier General Irvines Permission
                            to wait on your Excellency to solicit your Commands to Serve where you think I may be Useful. Your Excellencys Knowledge
                            of me and Inclination to promote my Interest, induces me to request the Honor of serving under your Eye, where I may have
                            the Opportunity to recommend my self to your Confidence & Esteem—Being destitute of Money and Cloaths, I pray
                            your Excellencys Warrant for the Pay and Cloathing due to me. I have the Honor to be with most perfect Devotion to your
                            Commands, Your Excellencys most Obt Humle Servant

                            John Montour
                            Capt. A.U.S.


Title: From George Washington to Matthias Ogden, 27 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Ogden, Matthias

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 27th May 1782.

                        I requested Colo. Smith to reply to yours of yesterday’s date by the return of Lieut. Rhea.
                         I cannot see into the necessity for the removal of the Party under Major Hay, for the purposes mentioned,
                            for if you have been able to keep up the communication without his knowledge, it surely can be carried thro’ with the same
                            Address, untill brought to the last stages when I think he may be of service.
                        The very act of removing them will give suspicion. Should Mr  be apprehended, I would recommend that you treat him with every civility in your Power consistant with
                            his security, and that you remove him immediately to the Jersey Hutts, forward a particular state of the Circumstances,
                            with Copies of the original Papers to His Excellency Govr Livingston, and as  is a Citizen, and a Subject of the State over which he presides, take his further order respecting
                            him. If it should be, to subject him to a tryal by Law-Martial let him be sent to Majr General Heath, with all the papers,
                            and proofs necessary to it.
                        With respect to the other matter, should it turn out agreable to your Expectations—the sooner you retire to
                            your Hutts the better—Lodge the Prisoners in a place of safety, and forward to me the earliest intelligence of your
                            success, and the number of Prisoners—the Circumstances attending them, and the Enterprise—when the necessary steps will
                            taken for their further security.
                        The sooner you bring this matter to a close the more agreable it will be to me, and I have great reason to
                            believe the more Advantageous to the public at large. I am Sir Your most Obedt Humble servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Matthias Ogden, 27 May 1782
From: Ogden, Matthias
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Newark 27th May 1782

                        I recd your Excellency’s letter of the 25th by Capt. Ogden, & doubt not that every thing will suceed
                            agreeably to expectations.
                        I dispatch Lieut. Rhea with matters of consequence that he will communicate to your Excellency; for which I
                            am particularly indebted to Capt. Baldwin.
                        Mr Rhea will observe, by whom these particulars, were given; the Person who recd them I expect this evening
                            with matters of equal consequence.
                        I mentioned to General Knox my expectations in this affair, perhaps his knowledge of characters, may lead to
                            detection as no names are figured.
                        I shall suspend operations untill Mr Rheas return, by whom I expect your Excellencys particular directions;
                            if any assistance from the Civil should be necessary Judge Burnet will be ready to give it.
                        There is at this place a subaltern & fifteen, twelve month men, that gives a Major Hays a pretence to
                            command; his ignorance will not admit of his being trusted, & his interference may possibly marr my plans; I wish
                            his command may be for the present removed to Rhaway—I will replace them with a few Continentals.
                        Mr Rhea will present the latest York papers, The fleet has not yet sailed. A number of Artificers have lately
                            been discharged, tho’ I suppose not for want of employ, but on account of Sir Guy’s haveing detected Hampton their head;
                            of fraud. I am with the greatest esteem your Excellencys humble servant

                             M: Ogden


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tupper, 27 May 1782
From: Tupper, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Albany May the 27th A.D. 1782

                        I was Honoured with Your Excellencys favour of the 20 Instant inclosing General Orders &c. and every
                            attention will be paid to the contents.
                        I have directed that as fast as the Levies git arainged that they be sent on to releive the Garrisons of the
                            outposts on the Mohawk station, meaning to collect the whole of the 2nd New Hampshire Regt at Fort plain in order to act
                            offensively if accation require and by being in the field to give them an oppertunity to revive their Dissapline, as it
                            must have relaxed by their having been detached in so many small bodys.
                        There is an unfinished Blockhouse at Fort plain which if compleated would be a strong barrior in that Country;
                            I think if some money could be sent on for the Meterials we can procure workmen among the levies to compleat it.
                        I am lately informed that about four weeks past Colo. Reeds horse fell with the him
                            & broke two of his ribs and it is not likely he will be able to releive me this long time. wish to know if I am
                            soon to be releived as it will determine me with respect to my Baggage. If I am likely to be continued here any time wish
                            I could obtain the favour of drawing some provisions over and above my six rations and let the value be stoped out of my
                            pay, Officers passing & repassing here on buisness are for the want of money oblidged to make my house their home,
                            and being destitute of cash myself am not able on six rations to furnish any thing like a decent table either for my self
                            or the Gentlemen who do me the honour to call on me. I am unhappy in troubling your Excellency on the Subject, as I know
                            your Excellency would wish to Anticipate all our reasonable desires & necessesaties. I have the Honour to remain
                            your Excellencys most obedent & humble Servant

                            Benj. Tupper Colo. Comt


Title: General Orders, 28 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Tuesday. May 28. 82.
                            Parole
                            C. Signs

                        The Commander in Chief, happy in the Opportunity of announcing to the Army the birth of a Dauphin of France
                            and desirous of giving as General Occasion of testifying the satisfaction which he is convinced will pervade the breast of
                            every American Officer and soldier on the communication of of an event so highly interesting to a Monarch and Nation who have
                            given us such distinguishing proofs of their attachment—is pleased to order a fue de joys on thursday next and requests
                            the Company of all the General, Regimental and staff Officers of the Army (who are not Necessarily detained by duty) at
                            West Point on that day at four OClock—Commanding Officers of Brigades and Corps will receive particular instructions for
                            their Government.


Title: From George Washington to John Hanson, 28 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Hanson, John

                            sir
                            Head Quarters 28th May 1782.

                        That Congress may be possessed of such Information as I have been able to obtain from New York at this
                            critical Moment, I do myself the Honor to transmit to your Excellency, the inclosed Extracts from sundry Letters of
                            Intelligence which have been lately handed to me from different Quarters. With great Respect and Regard I have the Honor
                            to be sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedt and most hume Servt

                            Go: Washington

                     Enclosure

                                    23 May 1782

                            Extract of a Letter from a Gentleman of Intelligence—23d May 1782.
                            "The many innovations made by his Excellency since his Arrival shews him to be not only a great General,
                                but an excellent Economist.
                            Eighty Sail of Transports are preparing and ordered to be ready to sail on the shortest Notice—7000
                                Troops are to hold themselves in readiness to embark at a minutes warning, however it is not conjectured in N. York
                                that there is an Expedition on foot at present—but I fear it.
                            It is impossible to form any Opinion, from his Excellency’s Manoeuvres at present, of his Intentions, but
                                a few Days will give us an Opportunity to discover, whether he is for peace or War.
                            It is said & credited that it is not in his power to give Independence, till he writes Home
                                & is properly authorised."


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 28 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir,
                            Head Quarters, Newburgh 28th May 1782

                        In Addition to the Instructions I gave in my Letter of the 26th respecting Flags, I think
                            it necessary to observe, that no Persons ought to be permitted to pass or repass under Cover of
                            Flags, except those whose Names are properly inserted: As it is reported, that some People having availed themselves of
                            such Opportunities, have formerly come into Jersey without any legal Permission.
                        By the Contract for the moving Army, all Stores & other Apparatus made Use of by our Issuing
                            Commissaries were to be furnished to the Contractors, they being responsible that the public Property shall not be wasted
                            or destroyed.
                        I am taking every possible Measure for replenishing our Magazines.
                        Mr Sands, I know, is very much occupied, at present, in making Preparations for the Celebration of the Birth
                            of the Dauphin. I hope as soon as that is over, he will settle with you the Commutation of Articles to your Satisfaction—If he will not do it agreeably to the Principles of the Contract, I beg you to inform me of it, and believe that I am,
                            Dear Sir, Your most obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. Your Letter of the 23d respecting Forage consumed in the County of West Chester shall be attended
                                to, as soon as I can get Leisure for the Purpose.
                            As a further regulation of Flags, I wish the following may be adhered to, and considered as a standing
                                Order. No Person coming from the Enemys Lines with a flag, is to be permitted to come within our Lines, or proceed
                                into the Country, without having first obtained permission in writing for the purpose, from the Executive of the State
                                to which he or she wishes to go—No Persons coming from the Enemy on business of a Military Nature are to be suffered
                                to advance within the out Posts, unless liberty shall be first obtained from the General Commandg the Army at the
                                time.


Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew von Heer, 28 May 1782
From: Heer, Bartholomew von
To: Washington, George

                            Reading May 28th 1782.

                        I have the Honour to present to His Excellency The Commander in Chief, That I have been very Successfull in
                            recruiting my Corps, which is at present compleat with Men & Horses.
                        But have not yet been supplied with pistols, Cloaks, Boots & Spurs.
                        Lieutt Mytinger coming up to relieve Lieutt Strubing will inform your Excellency in what Order the Troops
                            Stands at present—I would have sent on a Detachment to reinforce that what is there, But as I had not received any
                            particular Orders for the same; Have therefore thought proper to wait for His Excellency’s Orders. I have the Honour to be
                            Your Excellency Most Humble & most Obedt Servt

                            Barthw von Heer Capt. of L. Dn


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 28 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters 28th May 1782

                        I mentioned to you my Intention to submit the Complaints of the Officers against the Contract for the movg
                            Army—to the Superintendt of Finance they now go to him by this Conveyance—I refer you to his Letter for a Disclosure of
                            their Subjects, of the very serious & alarming Circumstances which we are now brot to from that Quarter—serious
                            indeed they are, & of such Importance as to demand your most earnest & instant Attention—I beg you to
                            consult with Mr Morris & give every Aid in your Power to the Means of obtaing that Relief which is expected by the
                            Army; The Officers placing the Matter of their Subsistence on the footg of a Contract with Government, of equal Solemnity
                            with that of their pay, seeing no prospect of the latter, & findg the former, which is now almost the only means
                            of their Support, not only placed upon very disadvantageous grounds, but the mode of obtaing it subject to continual
                            Changes without their Knowlege or Consent—are exceedingly hurt & alarmed at their Situation—This Consideration
                            Sir! with a persuasion (which some how, has taken deep Root in their Minds) that they are the most neglected &
                            injured part of Community, which affects them the more, while they are conscious of havg & been obliged not only
                            to fight the common Battles of their Country, but often to place themselves between it & the soldiery to suppress
                            Mutiny & Discontents from their Want of Pay & Provisions; makes it necessary
                            that such Measures should be adopted as will give them no Occasion to conjecture that they are curtailed in any part of
                            their day; I am exceedgly impressed with the Necessity of Economising the public Monies—but we must not spin this Thread
                            so fine as to break it—nor should this Economy seem to bear hardest upon those who have already experienced a double
                            share of all the Distresses which have been felt.
                        You will notice particularly the Anxiety I must be in from a Want of the necessary Deposits for the Garrisons
                            of Westpoint—This is an alarmg Circumstance— articularly at this Time, when we know not the Intentions of the Enemy—but
                            from too many Circumstances, & the Appearance of Intelligence, we have reason to fear the worst from them—Were
                            they to know our Situation, & make a sudden Attempt—what is there to save this important post.
                        Inclosed is Sir Guy Carletons Reply to my Request respectg the So. Carolina Inhabitants—The facility and
                            Ease with which (passing over every other part of my Letter to him) he has made a full Compliance to that Requisition,
                            strikes me in a very disagreeable point of Light—I transmit it to you, to be presented to Congress, that such Measures may
                            be taken thereon as they shall think proper to direct for my own part, I confess, I am not disposed to seek favors of, or
                            Submit to an Idea of being under Obligation to, Sir Guy, at this Moment of conciliatory War.
                        To your Question respectg the Hospital in Virginia, conveyed in your Letter of the 16th, I reply—that I had
                            no Idea of an Establishment there upon any extensive plan—The Recruits collecting in that State, with those from
                            Maryland, Delaware & Pennsylvania, which are destined for the Southern Army, I considered to be the Subjects of
                            that Establishment—the Numbers of these Troops you are as good a Judge of as I am, from whence you will form your
                            Estimates of the Quantity of Stores & Medicine that will be wanted—I fear Doctr Tiltons Ideas are naturally
                            formed upon too extravagant a Scale.
                        Capt. Montour, when he arrives, will be attended to—I care not how long he is kept off my Hands—I expect he
                            will be very troublesome.


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Holden Parsons, 28 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Parsons, Samuel Holden

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Newburgh May 28th 1782

                        In the conversation I had with you, when I saw you last at Head Quarters; you appeared to be so unalterably
                            fixed in the determination of leaving the Army at all events, that I had in my own mind made the arrangements
                            accordingly—and to prove that I was not precipitate in my judgment; the whole Army had formed the same opinion of your
                            intentions from your repeated & unequivocal declarations on the subject.
                        Since which I have received your favor of the 17th of May, in which you solicit leave of absence until called
                            for—happy in your further services, I should with pleasure grant you any indulgence, I judge consistent with my duty,
                            which I cannot suppose will permit me to give leave of absence for an unlimited time—if you persist in that idea,
                            your application must be to the Supreme Authority of the Continent, who I believe are alone competent to the gratification
                            of your wishes.
                        If your request had been for permission to continue absent a month or Six Weeks for the establishment of your
                            health; I should have consented to it, but, as I observed before, I do not think myself warrented in doing it, on the
                            footing you have placed the matter. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 28 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 28th May 1782

                        I have the Honor of your Letter of the 13th of this Mo.
                        Since the Information I conveyed to your Excellency, by the Baron Closen, the Amusement of peace held out by
                            our Enemies has been much augmented by the Arrival of Sir Guy Carleton in N. York, who enounces himself as Commander in
                            Chief in America—with powers of Conciliation to these States—pleasg as their first prospect might have been, are now I
                            believe, beginning to be generally viewed in their proper Colours—as merely delusory & vain, & I hope will
                            not be attended with such Consequences as the Enemy seem to flatter themselves with.
                        The Alliance Frigate you will hear is safe arrived in N. London—a Cutter Also from france, in 25 Days
                            passage, is in at Salem—her Dispaches are gone to Congress—you will probably know their Contents as early as I shall.
                        Our Accounts of the Action in the W. Indies between the two fleets remain very uncertain & vague—from
                            repeated publications in N. York, compared with those I collected from other parts—I confess I form too many Reasons to
                            fear, that the Matter has not passed so favorably to our friend the Count De Grasse as you seem to imagine—a little Time
                            will disclose the whole to us—& I sincerely hope it may dispell my Apprehensions. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 29 May 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Highlands, May 29. 1782.

                        I was this morning honored with yours of the 28th.
                        I have written to captain Pray to observe a conduct conformably to your Excellency’s instructions in all
                            cases respecting flags and persons going to, or coming from the enemy’s lines, without the least deviation.
                        I have not been able to obtain any intelligence or papers since those I sent last—have been expecting some
                            for several days—am as yet disappointed. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient
                            servant,

                            W. Heath

                            P.S. The enclosed from lieutenant colonel Fernald, is this moment handed to me. I beg leave to submit
                                the subject to your Excellency’s consideration. I believe the ground where the 10. Massachusetts regiment are hutted,
                                is by no means healthy, except in the winter season. The situation is remote from the issuing stores, and very
                                inconvenient on account of obtaining provisions. There is good encamping ground near the Continental–village, and also
                                between the red–church and Nelson’s-ferry; at either of those places they would be nearer to the issuing stores.
                            Captain Pray has just written me that the officers who came on under parole, brought with them four
                                horses, which they expected to take in with them to New York—They have not been taken in on account of a doubt with
                                captain Pray, whether they were to take in their horses, and partly on account of their being no means of conveying
                                them. The officers have left a servant with them. What shall be done with the horses.

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 29 May 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Highlands, May 29. 1782.

                        Captain Pray has just written me that he lately sent a serjeant and two men as a patrole down below the block-house at Dobbs’ ferry as far as the ship, to observe if there was not a communication kept up with the main. The ship’s
                            boat with the lieutenant on board came over to the Jersey shore after two deserters who had crossed—the serjeant and two
                            men fired on the boat and drove her off—it is supposed the lieutenant was wounded. The serjeant afterwards, contrary to his orders, went down below fort Lee in the night, was attacked
                            by the refugees, himself wounded, and with the two men taken prisoners and carried to New York, where the serjeant
                            remains; but the two men have just arrived here, each under parole. Enclosed is a copy of one of the paroles. I have
                            ordered them to their regiments—not to be put on duty, or to be absent until I know your pleasure respecting them. I
                            think the paroling soldiers in this way, is a finished piece of craftiness; it was practiced by sir Guy Carleton when he
                            commanded in Canada—and may be productive of most pernicious consequences if allowed at this time. The lads, when I told
                            them they were not to regard such a parole, and that they must join their regiments, at once discovered that they expected
                            to have had leave to go home. What mode of conduct they ought to observe, and whether the commissary of prisoners should
                            give credit as for two men received, or that no regard should be paid to the paroles, your excellency’s superior wisdom can
                            best determine.
                        A soldier by the name of Peter Cumings Gilbert belonging to the 2d Massachusetts regiment, has just given me
                            the enclosed letter from the honorable mr Prescott, covering a certificate from captain Stratton of Gilbert’s surrendering
                            himself to him—He deserted in the month of April last. I can only observe that mr Prescott is a gentleman of
                            distinguished character in Massachusetts, and that from the appearance of the lad, he is fully sensible of his error and
                            folly, and that he will behave better in future. I therefore beg leave to submit his case and attendant circumstances to
                            your consideration.
                        In consequence of the resignation of the judge advocate general, and one of his deputies, the general courts-martial cannot transact the necessary business which lays before them. Endeavours have been used to prevail on some gentleman
                            to act pro tempore, but it is declined—as no compensation it is said, can be allowed for it. In such case, what shall be
                            done? I have the honor to be With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath

                     Enclosure

                                Littelton 6the May 1782

                            This Sertyfy that Corpll Gilbart in the 2 Mastts Regt in Capt. Adm Baileys Company frely & with
                                out Controle Deliverd him Self to me as A Deserter from Sd Regt & Company this Day at four O’Clock A:M.

                                Aron Straton Capt.

                     Enclosure

                                Dear General
                                Groton 15th May 1782

                            I do myself the honor to address you in behalf of Peters Cumings Gilbert who lately deserted the Army;
                                the young man was sensible of his Error & immediately resign’d himself to an Officer as will appear by
                                Certificate, he Sustains a good Character & assures me he will return to his Duty & let the World know he
                                is an honest man & good Soldier—I should be happy to have him receive his pardon, for which purpose I have
                                wrote to Colo. Sprout, and am sure it will give you great pleasure to forgive the Offence when it is consistent with
                                honor. I am,dear sir, with sentiments of great Esteem & respect, your very Huml. Servt

                                Oliver Prescott

                     Enclosure

                                 26 May 1782

                            I Augustus Peck of New haven in the province of Connecticut do hereby pledge my faith and word of honor
                                to his excellency Sir Guy Carlton, that I shall not do or say any thing contrary to the interest of his majesty or his
                                government, and that whenever required so to do, I shall repair to whatever place his excellency, or any other his
                                majesty’s commander in chief in America shall judge expedient to order me. Given under my hand at New York, this 26.
                                day of May 1782.

                                Witness John Hullart
                                Augustus Peck, private
                                4th Connecticut regt


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 29 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Newburgh May 29th 1782

                        I have the honor to enclose the resignation of John Lawrence Esqr, Judge Advocate Genl. for the determination
                            of Congress thereon, & to solicit, upon its being accepted a successor may be appointed to him—I have further to
                            inform you that Mr Edwards a Liutt. in the 9th Mass. Regt is now the only Depy Judge Advocate with the Army, of whose
                            capacity to fill the Office as a Principal, I am not competent to determine; being very little acquainted with him but I
                            beg, when the matter is submitted to Congress, the dignity & importance of the Office may be duly explained. I
                            have the honor to be Dr Sr


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 29 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 29th May 1782

                        Colo. Varick being in great Distress for his Money, & fearg, from an Expression in yours of 23d ulto,
                            that its Delay is owing to his not havg sent forward a Receipt, has left one with me for the Sum of 800 Dollars which I
                            now transmit & beg that he may receive the Money ⅌ the first safe Conveyance. I am &ca

                            G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 29 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.

                            sir.
                            Head Quarters 29th May 1782

                        I have been honored with your two Letters of the 21st & 23d of this Month.
                        Your Excellency’s reply to Dean’s Letter I read with great Satisfaction—and the pleasure was hightened by
                            findg that it contained not only your own Sentiments, but also conveys the Sense of the Legislative Body of your State—From a variety of circumstances I view the present, as the most critical Moment, that we have almost ever experienced
                            throughout the present contest.
                        I am very sorry not to have it in my power to comply with your Excellency’s Request for a small Invalid Guard
                            for New Gate prison. I assure you Sir! that, in present circumstances and with present prospects, I must estimate every
                            Invalid (capable of any Service) as a good Man, and keep them on constant Duty. With great Regard & Esteem I have
                            the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Tupper, 29 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Tupper, Benjamin

                            sir
                            Head Quarters 29th May 1782

                        I think it best, under present Circumstances, that you should remain in your present Command untill the
                            Arrival of Colo. Reed, or the removal of the Troops from Albany.
                        I wish it was in my power to comply with your Request for an additional Allowance of Rations, so long as you
                            remain—I think it very reasonable, but a positive Resolve of Congress forbids it.
                        It is equally out of my Ability to furnish you with any Money for the Completion of the Block House at Fort
                            plain.
                        I approve your Conduct in forwardg the N.York State Levies to the out posts as fast as possible & collectg
                            the Continental Troops together as much as Circumstances will admit—that they may be reinstated in their Discipline,
                            & be ready for any compact Service. I am sir your Most humle Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Walker, 29 May 1782
From: Walker, Joseph
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Stratford May 29th 1782

                        Daniel Evis a Deserter from the Old 2d Connecticut Regiment, resigned himself up, & took the
                            advantage of your Excellencys Proclamation. He came from Long Island, where he served as a Soldier in the Refugee Corps.
                        Since he has been here, he informs me that one Vaun was set over at this Place some weeks passd by one Marks,
                            who Commands a Boat on that side; Vaun had Dispatches from General Clinton; & was going to Vermount. Since Evis
                            has come over, he received further information, that Vaun passed here, & went on to Major
                            Ross’s at Dover; from thence he proceeded on to the Northward, He saith he goes no farther than
                            Vermount: where he receives a Packet, & returns. When Vaun will be on his return, he cannot yet determine, but is
                            certain he will return this way.
                        He also had known Vaun, to pass on the same business once before, & return; that he saw the Packet
                            when he was going on, that it was very large, one Letter he saw directed to Ethan Allen in the State of Vermount.
                        He further adds that one Peet a Corporal in Col. Ludlows Corps is over here; and now at Major Rosses of
                            Dover, if he has not gone on with Vaun. His business is Recruiting. Peets Instructions Evis saw before he left the Island—He passes by the Name of Rheuben Peet a Deserter from the British.
                        Thought proper to give your Excellency the earliest Intelligence. Wish Evis to make some further discovery
                            which will be done in a few Days, shall then send him on to your Excellency for further examenation. Expect that Evis’s
                            Brother will be able to see Vaun on his return; he lives at this Place and is so connected to them that
                            he will undoubtedly know of his return and I believe may be trusted. I am with respect Your Excellencys most Obednt Humble
                            Servant

                            Joseph Walker


Title: To George Washington from Jacob Bayley, 30 May 1782
From: Bayley, Jacob
To: Washington, George

                            Sr
                            Newbury 30th May 1782

                        I sent your Excelency an account of the Corrisspondence which might be carried on between Capt. Thomas
                            Johnson and the Enemy by Genll Lincoln and also other matters relating the Transactions of the leading men in Vermont with
                            the Enemy &c. as those matters Seem to be ripening fast and Exspect they will be Soon put them Into Execution I
                            Send Capt. Bayley with the Letters and accounts from Sd Johnson who will give you other Inteligence and as I am afraid we
                            Shall not be able to Efectually oppose the Enemy, wish your Excelencys Directions respecting those matters I Shall not
                            trouble your Excelency with any more than Saying the Enemy are Doubtless Fortifying at Crown point, Majr James Rogers has
                            been in here and is gone back Satisfied that Most of the leading men in Vermont will not oppose Brittish Goverment I
                            believe he will not find it true tho, many are gone back this Town and Some ajacent Stand fast we Exspect Trouble—from
                            Vermont and Britton Connected I wish for Some Directions and assistance if possiable. I am your Excelencys most Humble
                            Servant

                            Jacob Bayley


Title: To George Washington from John Dickinson, 30 May 1782
From: Dickinson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia May 30th 1782

                        My Affection for your person and my Veneration for your Character, prompt Me to take that Liberty I now do.
                            Those Motives, and my Want of Information respecting Circumstances, will, I hope, procure Me your Forgiveness.
                        It is asserted here, that a British Officer taken at Yorktown, is to be executed in Retaliation for Mr Huddy,
                            as General Carleton has not delivered up the person principally concerned in that horrid Murder.
                        A Doubt has arisen in my Mind, whether this procedure will be thought regular. My Doubt turns on these
                            points. 1st—How far Mr Huddy could be regarded as under your Excellency’s Command—2ly—How far his Execution may be
                            considered as done by public Authority, or as a private Murder—3ly—How far a Refusal by a Commander in Chief to deliver up
                            a Criminal guilty of an Offence unauthorized and disapproved by him and for which the Criminal is amenable to him will
                            support a Retaliation—4ly—How far a Refusal by General Carleton to deliver up a Criminal for an Offence committed during
                            the Command of General Clinton will support a Retaliation—5ly—How far Instances of Execution by Orders of celebrated
                            Commanders will in Likeness of Circumstances support such a Retaliation—6ly—How far such a Retaliation may be proper,
                            viewing the Capitulation of Yorktown in all its Light.
                        I rely on your Excellency’s Judgment to determine, what Regard is due to these Reflections. If they deserve
                            any, yet it is possible, some of them may have escaped your Attention, engaged as it constantly is in important Cases and
                            Labors for the Welfare of your Country—For, how many Inclinations of your Heart are sacrificed to her Service. Permit the
                            possibility I have mentioned, to plead in my Excuse.
                        I have not intimated to any person that I should write on this affair, nor have exprest my Doubt in
                            Conversation. I beg You, Sir, to be assured that I am with all possible Esteem, your Excellencys most obedt & hble
                            servt

                            John Dickinson


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Johnson, Jr., 30 May 1782
From: Johnson, Thomas, Jr.
To: Washington, George

                        May it please your Excellency

                            Newbury Co’os 30 May 1782

                        To suffer me to lay before you a brief, yet imperfect, narrative of my observations while a prisoner in
                            Canada & how matters have since been conducted.
                        Some time in the month of March 1781 I was surprized in the middle of the Night, at a house about twenty
                            miles from home, by a party of Enemy from Canada consisting of ten men under the Command of one Capt. Azariah
                            Prichard, formerly an Inhabitant of Connecticutt—who since the Commencement of the present war viz. in the year 1777 made
                            his Escape into Canada—I was immediately made prisoner as I was getting from my Bed—And as I was going to said Prichard
                            who was about four or five miles distant I concluded that no topic would prove more agreeable than that of a union of
                            Vermont with Great Britain and being previously persuaded that for a considerable time there had been an intercourse
                            maitained between them I determined to make myself as intimate with on the Subject as possible.
                        Accordingly soon after I got into conversation with my Capt. he told me that I was just such a man as he
                            wanted, and before we got into Canada he gave me particular instructions concerning my behavior when I should come upon
                            Examn and I approved myself accordingly—and soon contracted an intimate acquaintance & conversation withe the
                            leading men in that quarter—and obtained a particular State of the affairs of Vermont—And found that Ira Allen &
                            others had twice been into Canada—And that two flags had been Sent from Canada into Vermont—And that the outlines of a
                            treaty were then actually formed between them—viz.—that Vermont should be a Charter Goverment simular in most respects to
                            Connecticutt—Yet more Liberty on the side of the State—That they should be protected by government whenever necessary—That
                            Ira Allen was then daily expected in again to compleat the matter.
                        I found likewise that this plan was agreed upon with Ethan Allen before he left the Brittish.

                                April

                                About this time several parties from New York City came in by whom we had information that Genl
                                    Clark with a considerable reinforcement was coming into Canada. The particular Accounts from the
                                    Southward—Cornwallace’s Success—The taking of St Eustatia—the situation of the American & British Armies
                                    &c. &c.

                                These accounts gave a new Spring to the British Blood and seemed to Shaise them Superior to a negotiation with
                                    Vermont as a neutral

                                State—nothing but a Submission without farther delay—would answer on pain of displeasure—Every thing was then
                                    pursued to carry on two Expeditions—One against Schenactada & the other against
                                        Albany—Handbarrows—Wheelbarrows—a new Construction of Batteaux very light &
                                    portable as Artilery Carriages—and light trucks or hand waggons fashioned so that six men would
                                    set on a batteaux large enough to carry fifteen men & baggage—and run with it three
                                    or four milesinan hour—And every other thing necessary to force a rapid March—or retreat with the greatest
                                    Expedition.

                                Nothing now prevented their intended Expeditions but the want of provisions—But before that arrived information
                                    came that Genl Stark with a Body of Troops was marching towards Saratoga—this put them into great Consternation.

                                July

                                At this time provisions were so scarce, that they were obliged to distribute what little they
                                    had in very small quantities, by the Barrel &c. to every quarter.

                                Wheat was now four dollars or upward per Bushel—Beef twenty Coppers per pound— Butter—Veal &c. double that
                                    sum—The

                                officers often said that all the prisoners must be sent out of the Province—One third part of their Cattle died in
                                    the Spring for want of forrage—The worms devoured almost every green thing—so that there was no prospect of
                                    wintering more than one third part of what Cattle the winter had Spared.

                                During the carrying on the aforesaid Expeditions it was agreed by the Allens &c. on the part of Vermont
                                    that they would lay still and give them no trouble—as the officers had often told me Thus Ethan Allen did at
                                    Casselton in the fall of the Year 1780—when the British destroyed—Fort George—Fort Anne, & many of the
                                    inhabitants in that quart. & came round within one days march of the place where Allen lay with near a
                                    thousand men, & suffered them all to pass on unmolested—when at the same time I heard many of the officers
                                    often say that Allen might easily have Cut them all off if he would, but he had agreed to the Conterary.

                                The rehearsal of these Actions of the infernal Villians is enough to make my blood run cold in every vein!

                                Now I was reduced to strait quarters, & offered a Commission of Major, on swearing allegiance to the King
                                    & taking part with them—Otherwise, they told me, that I must be sent away with other prisoners, &
                                    take my fate with them.

                                    Now I was obliged to deal on prenstilio’s. I told them I would rather lay in Gaol five years than lift my finger to shed the blood of my Countrymen—But that everything in my power, for peace I would unreserviedly pursue.

                                Notwithstanding all the plausible pretentions of the Vermonteers the Spirit of Jealousy was high—They constantly kept Spies amongst them to watch their motions—Some of whom came in & said that some of the Inhabitants of the Grants were for fighting, but generally they were for Neutrality or Submission.
                            In May one Majr Lurmene Adjutant Genl & a principle Confidant of the General came up—who with Majr Dumdar & Capt. Sherwood were appointed Commissioners to treat with Ira Allen, sole Commissioner plenipotentiary from Vermont. And upon examining Commission found it only from Govr. Chittendim & not from the Authority of  the State—& therefore it was tho’t improper to proceed—But it was proposed between the parties that Vermont should raise Six hundred men as standing troops, & remand a party sufficient to man a twenty Gun Ship, and all be commanded by officers of their own Commissioned by state Trying and not in Conjunction with the British—and Should raise two thousand on an Emergency. I was often asked if I tho’t Vermont were able to perform so much on their part—& many other question of the like nature. In June one George Smyth who had been taken up as a Spy from the British Army, & put into Goal in Albany, and  it was tho’t would have been hanged—but by the assistance of the Vermonteers made his Escape from Goal & came into Canada and was immediately appointed a Commissioner to treat with the Vermonteers.Likewise one Sargeant Smyth in Character Dress & in Company with a party of Indians went to Philadelphia or near thereabouts under the notion of treating for peace, & there continued in such disguise untill he
                                    had gotten all the intelligence of the situations of the Armies, proceedings of Congress &c. &c. and then
                                    returned into Canada, & gave so good an Account of matters that the General gave him an Adjutants
                                    Commission & other presents—This I had from his own mouth in Septemr.

                                Seeing they had been disappointed in their Champaigns for want of provisions—and that a plenty had afterwards
                                    arrived they determined to pursue the same as early in the Spring as possible—with about three thousand affective
                                    men, which I think as many as they could any way send out.

                                About the time I was coming out of Canada Capt. Prichard told me that he kept a Correspondance with one Davenport
                                    Phelps, a Gent. educated at Dartmouth College on this River, and

                                Grand Son of Doctr Wheelock the late president that he was going over to see how matters were conducted—And when I
                                    got to Connecticut River I heard that Phelps was a member of Vermont Genl Court from Orford a town on the east of
                                    the River—who immediately left the Court after they had transacted such matters as more immediately related to
                                    Prichard business—& went seventy miles up the River to Mooretown where Prichard was waiting to see him
                                    before he could return to Canada again.

                                It may not be amiss to observe, that as at first I determined in every Shape to pursue such measures as would be
                                    most likely to gain an Acquaintance with their Secret movements & operations so that on my return home, I
                                    might be able to render Service to my Country—Hence it will not appear Strange that I should easily consent to
                                    continue a Correspondence, for a further benefit to the public. Upon the Conclusion of this matter Genl Halderman
                                    sent me a Seal to affix to all my letters of Correspondence, that I need not sign my name, & so be in
                                    danger of discovery.

                                In the month of October last one Levi Sylvester, being in the wood hunting was taken prisoner, carried into Canada
                                    & there entered into an agreement with Prichard as a Carrier to meet him at Certain times & places
                                    in the woods & deliver & receive letters of intelligence—by him I received a letter from Prichard
                                    in Jany last the first time that he came in & said that he made his escape—but he is looked upon as an
                                    honest man in General—he likewise bro’t letters to several other persons viz. to John Patterson & to Isaac
                                    Patterson, from Benja. Patterson a Refugee & another from Prichard to Thomas Chamberlin—And agreed to meet
                                    Prichard again at onion River the last of February. At which time I sent a letter to Genl Halderman &
                                    another to Prichard, Copies of which & my first letter are inclosed—also the news papers containing the
                                    Acct of the Surrender of Cornwallace—Sylvester likewise told me that he delivered to sd Prichard

                                1782

                                a letter from sd John Patterson for his Son

                                April

                                Benja. in Canada & he brot me a letter from Geo. Smyth—a Copy inclosed, & he
                                    delivered three other letters to me with orders for me to deliver them, viz. one to Col. Bedel which was directed

                                to J. Mountene—one to John Patterson & one to Isaac Patterson which three last letters were opened,
                                    Copied, Sealed up & delivered to the wife of John Patterson (he not being at home) but said John told me
                                    afterward that he had received them & delivered one to Bedel & the other to Isaac.

                                May

                                a few days afterwards I received a verbal message from said Bedel by William Wallace, that I
                                    must be more cautious & not deliver letters to women, lest I should be found out.

                                13

                                Col. Bedel went to my house to see me but as I was not at home he waited till evening, and as he was returning I
                                    met him in Company with said Wallace—and Bedel told me that he had some business of importance to tell me viz.
                                    that Majr Rogers with a Strong guard was then in Mooretown & wanted very much to see me—that I must go
                                    down that night & see him and gave me directions how to find him, but meeting with some disappointments,
                                    I could not go that night, Said Bedel further told me that Six hundred of the Enemy had come over the Lake with
                                    force &c. & were fortifying there—that Rogers had had an Express from New York within three weeks
                                    & the British were going to evacuate New York & Charlestown & to go with all their force
                                    to Canada the ensuing Champaign wich they would maintain at all events.

                                14

                                The next morning I went to see Bedel & told him that I had not been to see Rogers,
                                    but would go the ensuing evening—Beedel said he was not certain that I could find him as he might be moved—But
                                    John Patterson being there Bedel Said he would send Rogers word if possible to meet me at the place appointed for
                                    last evening—I went but Could not find him—Bedel likewise told me that there was another party at another place—He
                                    said Rogers principle business was to enquire into the temper of the people in general
                                    & see many as he could & get the opinion of as many of the leading men as he could in this part of
                                    the Country, & see if they are well disposed to Government & to continue to act up to former
                                    engagements—So that if he could make a favourable return to the General it Would not be likely that we should be
                                    troubled any further at present.

                                Bedel did not say directly that he had seen Rogers, but said that I might depend upon what he
                                    had told me—that he had his information direct &

                                not from any Second hands that if I should see Rogers he would have me give a good Character, and in as high and
                                    as favourable a light as he tho’t it would bear.

                                May 21

                                Levi Sylvester came to my house & told me that Joseph White & another man by
                                    the name of Miller, were or had been at or about Thos Chamberlins & had sent for him to come & see
                                    him but as he sent him no tokens he did not go to see him, for his orders were not to have any thing to do with
                                    any persons without they had certain tokens—But Sylvester told me that Chamberlin told him, that he had Seen White
                                    & white told him that Rogers was come in & upon the same

                                business as Bedel had said—And that he the said White was sent as a Spy to see how Rogers Bedel & others
                                    conducted, & to find out whether there were any signs of treachery to be observed.

                         Thus I have given your Excellency a broken & imperfect account, Yet I think I have hinted at the
                            most material facts—& Submit them to your Candid perusal—And beg leave to Subscribe myself your Excellencies most
                                devoted & most humble Servant

                            Thos Johnson


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Johnson, Jr., 30 May 1782
From: Johnson, Thomas, Jr.
To: Washington, George

                            May it please your Excellency
                            Newbury 30 May 1782

                         To indulge me while I say
                        That in the month of March 1781 I was taken a prisoner as set forth in my narrative, continued in Canada
                            untill Sept. when I obtained liberty to return home on Parole which I could effect only by engaging to carry on a
                            Correspondance with them. This was my view to get what intelligence I was able respecting their plans and movements—And in
                            hopes to be exchanged I might be able in a regular way to have given some importance intelligence. Have taken such
                            measures as appeared most likely to effect the same—but as these have hitherto failed, I find the season so far advanced
                            as not to Admit of farther delay, without acquainting your Excellency.
                        The proposed plans of the Enemy the last Champaign frustrated for want of provisions, They determined to
                            pursue this Spring as early as possible—To that End have used their most unwearied Endeavors with Vermont to prepare the
                            way—which they have in a very great & incredible Degree brot to pass, and is daily increasing—and unless some
                            speedy stop can be put to it I dread the Consequences.
                        Entreat your Excellency—That if possible by a regular Exchange, I may be enabled to give all the intelligence
                            in my power without hazzarding my Character which Otherwise I am determined to do at the risque of my Honor—My All—and
                            perhaps to the great Injury of hundreds of poor prisoners now in their hands—Having had Experience—Am grieved—To think of
                            their Situation.
                        This infernal plan of Treachery with Vermont (as I often heard in Canada) was contrived before Ethane Allen
                            left the Brittish, and he was engaged on their Side. It ran thro the Country like a Torrent from New York to Canada and
                            the present temper of Vermont is piece of the Same.
                        Were the people in general, upon the Grants, this Side the mountains to Declare for New Hampshire (or New
                            York) it would be Contrary to the Agreement of their leading men—and unless protected by your Excellency, the Innocent
                            with the Guilty, would Share a miserable Fate.
                        This part of the Country being sold by a few designing men—of which a large number are very jealous—Yet but a
                            Small number have by me their informer or otherwise got the Certainty puts the Inhabitants in a most disagreeable
                            Situation—They are desirous of declaring for New Hampshire, many of their leaders earnestly dissuading them against
                            it—keeps us in a tumult, untill I fear the Enemy will get so great advantage as to raise their Standard to the destruction
                            of this part of the Country—They keep their Spies constantly in this quarter without molestation, and know every movement
                            & transmit the same directly to Canada and when matters take a turn Contrary to their minds, we are miserably
                            exposed to their Severest Resentment.
                        I am entirely devoted to your Excellency’s pleasure—Should my past Conduct meet your Excellency’s
                            approbation, my highest ambition will be satisfied—if not deal with me as your wisdom shall dictate—I most earnestly
                            entreat your Excellency to meditate a moment on my critical and perplexing Situation as well as that of this part of the
                            Country, and that I may receive by Capt. Bayley the Bearer who will be able to give further information—Your Excellencys
                            pleasure in this affair. And beg leave to Subscribe myself your Excellencys most Sincere & most devoted Servant

                            Thos Johnson


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 30 May 1782
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            War Office May 30 1782

                        The night before last Captain Ludlow of the guards, came to this City with letters for General Carleton
                            soliciting his attention to Captain Asgill of the guards—the person to whose lot it falls to suffer for the crimes of
                            others.
                        Major Gordon is here with Capt. Asgill and wishes to attend him into the Jersies as his friend—they will
                            leave this City this evening or in the morning—The Officers of Cornwallis’s Army are very angry with Sr Hy Clinton that
                            he did not settle this matter before he departed for Europe—I wish he had given up the murderer—though the present
                            measures will set an inveterate hatred between the Tories, or Refugees, and the British Officers.I have the honor to be
                            Dear General with perfect esteam—your Excelcys most Obedt Servt

                            B. Lincoln