Title: To George Washington from Major Jacob Morris, 26 March 1778
From: Morris, Jacob
To: Washington, George

Sir
Bristol [Pa.] 26th March 1778.

It makes me very happy to have it in my power to transmit a piece of information which I am sure will be highly pleasing to your Excellency.
I parted with Genl Lee Yesterday at the Enemy’s Lines near Philada in good health & spirits—he acquainted me by a note, before I Left the picket that as soon as Coll Campbell & the Hessian officers arrive Sir Wm Howe had informed Mr Loring that he shou’d be permited to come out.
Inclosed is a Letter for Mr Boudinot. I am with great respect Your Excelly’s most ob: humble Sert

Jacob Morris


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. William Smallwood, 26 March 1778 [letter not found]
From: Smallwood, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. William Smallwood, c.26 Mar. 1778. GW wrote Smallwood on 28 Mar., “I was yesterday favd with yours without a date, inclosing the proceedings of a Court Martial held upon Colo. Hall of Maryland.” The usual time of passage for letters from Smallwood was one day, and Josias Carvil Hall wrote GW on the subject in a letter of 26 March.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Ternant, 26 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Ternant, Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de

Sir
Head quarters [Valley Forge] 26 March 1778.

I was favoured with your letter (without date) yesterday.
As you seem to have take it for granted that your Services are rejected,

and intimate an inconsistency in my not discouraging from the beginning; the application made in your behalf—it is incumbent upon me to assure you, that I have not given up the idea of your becoming one of the subinspectors, on the terms expressed in my last letter and acceded to by you—and consequently that the want of consistency depends upon your interpretation of some parts of my conduct towards you.
I will not however conceal from you, that foreseeing some difficulties in the way—I declined announcing your appointment precipitately and before the other Subinspectors were chosen—that the whole might be declared at the same time—Having now in my own mind fixed upon these Gentlemen, tho all of them are not in Camp—I have not the smallest objection to your entering upon the duties of the Office as I am persuaded it will afford much relief to Baron Steuben, and benefit the Service. I am Sir Your most obedt Servt.


Title: General Orders, 27 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Friday March 27th 1778.
Ghent—Goshen Gardner.

The numerous Inconveniencies of a large train of baggage must be apparent to every officer of the least observation; an Army by means of it is rendered unwieldy and incapable of acting with that ease and Celerity which are essential either to it’s own Security and defence or to Vigor and Enterprize in its offensive Operations; The sollicitude which those who have a large quantity at stake will feel for its safety even in the most critical Circumstances is sometimes attended with very alarming Consequences and Individuals frequently and unavoidably sustain no inconsiderable losses from the Imprudence of incumbering themselves with superfluous baggage; the Public is burdened with a fruitless Expence, in an additional number of Horses & Waggons and the strength of the Army is diminished by the extraordinary number of Guards required for their protection; These disadvantages and many more that will suggest themselves on reflection notwithstanding the Pains taken to remedy them have been heretofore severely felt by this Army, many instances will be recollected in the course of last Campaign, and among others the great loss which attended the sending the superfluous baggage, during the more active part of it to a distance

from the Army. The Commander in Chief hopes these considerations will influence officers in the ensuing Campaign to provide themselves with those necessaries only which cannot be dispensed with, and with the means of carrying them in the most easy and convenient manner; In order to which he strongly recommends the dis-use of Chests and Boxes & that Portmanteaus or Valises made of Duck may be substituted instead of them, this will be the more requisite as it is in Contemplation to employ as few Waggons as possible and to make use of Pack-Horses as far as may be practicable: It is expected the General & Field Officers will set the Example and see that it is strictly followed by all those under their respective Commands.
Officers at Out-Posts receiving Letters by Flag addressed to the Commander in Chief, by General Howe, whose Name is always indorsed on them are desired to give receipts for the same.
As the Commander in Chief is desirous of geting the interior line of defence completed, He desires that the Brigadiers and officers commanding Brigades will meet at General Varnum’s quarters tomorrow at eleven ôClock and there, or at the Line assign each Brigade it’s proportion which they will cause to be executed under the inspection of the Engineer with as much dispatch as possible.


Title: To George Washington from Col. Theodorick Bland, 27 March 1778 [letter not found]
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Col. Theodorick Bland, 27 Mar. 1778. On 10 April, Bland wrote GW, “This day fortnight I wrote to Your Excellency in obedience to the Orders Recd by Col: Baylor.”


Title: From George Washington to Patrick Henry, 27 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Henry, Patrick

Dr Sir
Valley Forge March 27th 1778

About eight days ago I was honored with your favor of the 20th Ulto.
Your friendship, Sir, in transmitting me the anonymous Letter you had received, lays me under the most grateful obligations, and if my acknowledgements can be due for any thing more, it is for the very polite and delicate terms, in which you have been pleased to communicate the matter.
I have ever been happy in supposing that I had a place in your esteem, and the proof you have afforded upon this occasion makes me peculiarly so. The favourable light in which you hold me, is truly flattering, but I should feel much regret, if I thought the happiness of America so intimately connected—with my personal welfare, as you so obligingly seem to consider it. All I can say is, that she has ever had, and I trust she ever will have, my honest exertions to promote her interest.

I cannot hope that my services have been the best—But my Heart tells me—they have been the best that I could render.
That I may have erred in using all the means in my power for accomplishing the objects of the arduous exalted station with which I am honored, I cannot doubt; nor do I wish my conduct to be exempted from reprehension farther than it may deserve. Error is the portion of humanity, and to censure it, whether committed by this or that public character, is the prerogative of freemen. However, being intimately acquainted with the man, I conceive the Author of the Letter transmitted; and having always received from him the strongest professions of attachment and regard, I am constrained to consider him, as not possessing, at least, a great degree of candor and honest sincerity, though his views in addressing you, should have been the result of conviction and founded in motives of public good. This is not the only secret, insidious attempt, that has been made to wound my reputation. There have been others equally base, cruel and ungenerous, because conducted with as little frankness, and proceeding from views perhaps as personally interesting. I am Dr Sir with great esteem & regard Yr Much obliged friend & Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 27 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 27th March 1778

I opened the inclosed to take out the letter for the commanding Officer at Albany, having an opportunity of sending it immediately there by Colo. Armand.
I forgot to desire you to give orders to the drivers of all Cattle and to the conductors of all cloathing and Stores coming from the Eastward to cross the Delaware at Easton and not come down as low as Sherrards or Correyels ferry as usual. When at Easton to send an express to Camp that they may have their Rout pointed out and a party sent to escort them; if it should be necessary. If there should be no opportunity direct to Boston when you receive this, be pleased to send Genl Heaths letter by Express. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 28 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Saturday March 28th 1778.
Halifax—Harvard. Holliston

At a board of the Brigadiers and officers commanding Brigades the prices of sundry liquors were fixed as follows and now ratified by the Commander in Chief (viz.) West-India rum or Spirit at 15/ Continental rum 10/ Gen 9/ French brandy 19/ & Cyder royal 2/ pr quart and in larger or smaller quantities at the same rates.
On monday next the Troop will beat at half past seven ôClock in the morning the Guards to be on the Grand Parade at 8 ôClock precisely, in order to exercise previous to guard-mounting, Major Wallace Brigade Inspector in Genl Woodford’s Brigade will command and is to have two Adjutants from that Brigade to assist him.
On sunday at ten ôClock in the forenoon all the Brigade Inspectors with the officers and non Commissioned officers who are to mount guard on Monday will attend at Head-Quarters where the Inspector General will instruct them in what is to be done the next day.
Baron Steuben a Lieutenant General in Foreign Service and a Gentleman of great military Experience having obligingly undertaken

to exercise the office of Inspector General in this Army, The Commander in Chief ’till the pleasure of Congress shall be known desires he may be respected and obeyed as such and hopes and expects that all officers of whatsoever rank in it will afford him every Aid in their Power in the execution of his office.
Lieutt Coll Davis, Brooks and Barber & Mr Ternent are appointed to act as Sub-Inspectors, the three former retaining their rank & station in the Line. The importance of establishing a Uniform System of useful Manœuvres and regularity of discipline must be obvious, the Deficiency of our Army in these Respects must be equally so; the time we shall probably have to introduce the necessary Reformation is short, without the most active Exertions therefore of Officers of every Class it will be impossible to derive the Advantages proposed from this Institution which are of the greatest moment to the ensuing Campaign; Arguments surely need not be multiplied to kindle the Zeal of Officers in a matter of such essential consequence to their own honor, the Advancement of the service and the Prosperity of our Arms.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Caswell, 28 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Caswell, Richard

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 28th March 1778

I have been this day honoured with yours of the 15th Feby and am pleased to hear that you have found an opportunity of purchasing a quantity of Cloathing for the Troops of your State, which I beg may be forwarded as quick as possible, not to the Cloathier General but to Brig: Genl [Mc]Intosh who commands the North Carolina Troops. My reason for desiring this is, that the Troops of your State will by these means be sure of having the whole appropriated to their particular use, but if it goes into the hands of the Cloathier General it will get mixt with the general mass of continental Cloathing, and may be delivered out to the troops of other States. I would not have you wait to have the Cloathing made up in Carolina. If it comes on in piece as far as Lancaster it may be made up there in such Garments as are most wanted. I am also exceedingly glad to hear that you have made a purchase of Salt provision, very little of which, to what ought to have been, has been put up to the Northward, owing to neglect or mismanagement in

the Commissary’s department. I beg you will not discontinue your purchases of Salt Meat, if it is in your power to extend them, for I am certain we shall have occasion for it.
I hope some means have been fallen upon before this time for the completion of the Battalions of your State. Whether it be by drafting or recruiting, I desire that the Men may be sent forward as fast as they are raised, always under the charge of a commissioned Officer. They need not wait for innoculation as they can conveniently go through the disorder in or near Camp, and the men will not have a long march to perform after their recovery which has always proved more destructive than the small pox itself.
There is every appearance of General Howes drawing Reinforcements from New York and Rhode Island, and I very much fear he will be in a condition to take the field before we are prepared for him. I have wrote pressingly to every State to forward on their levies without loss of time, and I am certain that the same Zeal which has ever actuated you when your Country wanted your assistance will be exerted upon this occasion. I am with Respect and Regard Sir Yr most obt Servt.

P.S. I have desired the Cloth to be sent forward upon a supposition that it will be difficult to get it made up in Carolina. But if it can be done speedily it will be as well or better. If made will you be pleased to order the Cloaths to be made large.


Title: Grant of Authority to the Commissioners for Prisoner Exchange, 28 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Commissioners for Prisoner Exchange

[Valley Forge, 28 March 1778]

By His Excellency, George Washington Esquire, General and Commander in Chief of all the Forces of the United States of America. To Colonel William Grayson, Lieutenant Colonels Robert Hanson Harrison and Alexander Hamilton and Elias Boudinot Esquire Commissary General of Prisoners.
Whereas a proposition was made, by me, on the 30th day of July 1776, to His Excellency General Sir William Howe, and acceded to, by him, on the first day of August following, Stipulating an exchange of Prisoners “officer for officer of equal rank, soldier for soldier and citizen for citizen”: And Wheereas differences have arisen in the construction and execution of this agreement; and it has been found by Experience to be inadequate to all the desireable purposes for which it was intended, not being sufficiently extensive and definite to comprehend the diversity of circumstances incident to the State of Captivity, or to ascertain the various modes of relief applicable to all:
In order to adjust all such differences, to prevent others in future, so far as may be practicable, and to fix the exchange and accommodation of Prisoners of War, upon a more certain, liberal and ample foundation; You are in virtue of full powers to me delegated, to meet such Commissioners of suitable rank as are, or shall be appointed on the part of General Sir William Howe at German Town on the last day of this month, and who shall come duly authorised to treat on the subject:
With them to confer, determine and agree upon a Treaty and Convention for the Exchange of Prisoners of war and for all matters whatsoever, which may be properly contained therein on principles of justice humanity and mutual advantage and agreeable to the customary rules and practice of war among civilized nations: For all which, this shall be your sufficient warrant, and your engagements being mutually interchanged, shall be ratified and confirmed by me. Given under my had and seal at Head Quarters, Valley Forge, this 28th day of March 1778.

⟨B⟩y His Excellency’s Command
John Laurens Aide de Camp


Title: From George Washington to John Ettwein, 28 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Ettwein, John

Sir.
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 28th march 1778.

I have received your Letter of the 25th instant by Mr Hasse; setting forth the injury that will be done to the Inhabitants of Letiz by establishing a General Hospital there—it is needless to explain how essential an establishment of this kind is to the welfare of the Army, and you must be sensible that it cannot be made any where, without occasioning inconvenience to some set of people or other—at the same time it is ever my wish and aim that the public good be effected with as little sacrifice as possible of individual interests—and I would by no means sanction the imposing any burthens on the people in whose favor you remonstrate, which the public Service does not require—The Arrangement and distribution of Hospitals depends intirely on Doctor Shippen, and I am persuaded that he will not exert the authority vested in him unnecessarily to your prejudice—It would be proper however to represent to him the circumstances of the inhabitants of Letiz; and you may if you choose it, communicate the contents of this Letter to him. I am Sir Your most obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 28 March 1778
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

Sir
Camp Valley Forge 28 March 1778

The Above named Gent. have at all times executed every command to which the[y] have been ordered while I had the Honr to command them, with great exactness.
I therefore beg leave to recommend them as officers, that will endevour to deserve any Notice Yr Excelly may honour them with. I am Yr Excelly’s Most obdt Humble Servant

David Forman Late Colo.


Title: From George Washington to Patrick Henry, 28 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Henry, Patrick

Dr Sir
Camp [Valley Forge] March 28: 1778

Just as I was about to close my Letter of Yesterday, your favor of the 5 Instant came to hand.
I can only thank you again, in the language of the most undissembled gratitude, for your friendship; and assure you, the indulgent disposition, which Virginia in particular and the States in general entertain towards me, gives me the most sensible pleasure. The approbation of my Country is what I wish, and as far as my abilities and opportunity will permit, I hope I shall endeavour to deserve it. It is the highest reward to a feeling mind, and happy are they, who so conduct themselves, as to merit it.
The Anonymous Letter, with which you were pleased to favor me, was written by Doctor Rush, so far as I can judge from a similitude of hands. This Man has been elaborate & studied in his professions of regard for me; and long since the Letter to you.
My caution to avoid anything that could injure the service, prevented me from communicating, but to very few of my friends, the intrigues of a faction, which I know was formed against me, since it might serve to publish our internal dissentions; but their own restless zeal to advance their views, has too clearly betrayed them, and made concealment on my part fruitless. I cannot precisely mark the extent of their views, but it appeared in general, that General Gates was to be exalted, on the ruin of my reputation and influence. This I am authorised to say

from undeniable facts, in my own possession, from publications, the evident scope of which, could not be mistaken, and from private detractions industriously circulated. Genl Mifflin it is commonly supposed, bore the second part in the Cabal; and General Conway, I know, was a very active, and malignant partizan but I have good reasons to believe that their machinations have recoiled most sensibly upon themselves.
I am happy to hear, the Assembly have authorized the Executive power to provide their Troops with cloathing & other necessaries. If the several States attend to this important business, I am persuaded, we shall not experience the same wants—not to say miseries that we heretofore have. The Commissary’s department too, I trust, will be under better regulations, than what it has been. Our difficulties & distresses, in this instance, have not arisen from a scarcity of provision, but from improper persons, or rather none at all, being employed.
The arrival of the French ship is an agreable circumstance, as, I presume, she brought goods; and as it is a proof of the friendly disposition of the Nation. If she was in commission of the King, it would be still better. With sentiments of great esteem & regard I am Dr Sir Yr Affect. Hbl. servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Peter Scull, 28 March 1778
From: Scull, Peter
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Reading [Pa.] 28th Mar. 1778.

Permit me to address your Excellency once more on the subject of my resignation; & to decline accepting the Post you were lately pleased to offer me. I assure you, Sir, I am most firmly attach’d to the cause of my Country, & am fond of the military life; but my peculiar situation impels me to enter into another Line.
I feel the most fervent sentiments of Gratitude for the several instances of favor that your Excellency has condescended to bestow on me, & am too poor in thanks to express my acknowledgements of them in that warm manner I could wish. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most obliged, & most devoted hl. Servt

P. Scull


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Smallwood, 28 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Smallwood, William

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 28th March 1778

I was yesterday favd with yours without a date, inclosing the proceedings of a Court Martial held upon Colo. Hall of Maryland. Inclosed you have Copy of my opinion which is published in the General Orders of this day.
I am informed that there still remains a considerable quantity of Hay between Chester and Wilmington upon the River side, particularly at one John Smiths near Marcus Hook. I would have you send an Officer immediately along the Shore to let the owners of the Hay know, that it must be removed some distance back from the Water without loss of time, otherwise we shall be obliged to burn it to prevent its falling into

the Hands of the Enemy. You must allow a few days for the removal, and at the expiration of that time, what cannot be got off must be burned and Certificates, of the Quantity destroyed, given to the owners.
I have recd advice that four Regiments had embarked at New York, and that the Transports had fallen down to the Hook. It also appears by accounts from Rhode Island as if they were about to evacuate that place. I therefore desire you to keep a good look out for these Vessels, for I am fully of opinion that they are bound for Philada. If any Vessels come in, endeavour to discover whether they have any troops on Board.
I thought you had eight peices of Cannon at Wilmington. I would nevertheless have you send two peices with the Waggons belonging to them to Camp. Keep the best Horses with those that remain, that you may move rapidly upon occasion. If General Howe draws his force together, we must unite ours. I would therefore have you hold every thing in readiness to move at a moments warning, and I would recommend it to you and your Officers to remove any useless and heavy Baggage immediately. I would not have you hold up an Idea, that we have thoughts of leaving Wilmington, I would rather hint the contrary, and that I only disincumbered myself of my useless Baggage and Stores to act with more vigor.
As our Commissioners meet those from General Howe on Tuesday next, I hope the depositions wrote for will not be delayed beyond that time. I shall be glad to have Major Stewarts deposition, relative to his treatment while a prisoner, taken, and sent up as soon as possible. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. The opinion shall be in my next.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Temple, 28 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Temple, Benjamin

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 28th March 1778

I am favd with yours of the 20th ulto and am glad to find that you have been able to procure most of the Articles necessary for the Cloathing of the 1st Regt of Light Dragoons. Colo. Bland and Colo. Baylor have full powers to purchase a number of Horses, to accomplish which they are supplied with Cash and I doubt not but they will be successful. The reinlisted Men and those upon furlough may be sent to Camp upon some of those Horses. Major Jameson, who was called to Virginia upon his private Business, was directed to assist Colo. Bland and Baylor in the purchase of Horses. You will therefore be pleased to return and take the command of the Regiment as soon as you have secured a proper quantity of Cloathing. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel James Wilkinson, 28 March 1778
From: Wilkinson, James
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Reading [Pa.] 28th March 1778

I beg you to receive the grateful Homage of a sensible Mind, for your condescension in exposing to me M[ajo]r Genl Gates’s Letters which Unmask his Artifice & efforts to ruin me. The Authenticity of the Information recd thro Lord Stirling I cannot confirm; As I solemnly assure Your Excellency I do not remember the Conversation which passed on that occasion, nor can I recollect particular passages of that Letter as I had but a cursory view of it, at a late Hour; however I so well remember its general Tenor that (altho Major General Gates has pledged his Word it is a wicked & Malicious Forgery) I will stake my Reputation if the Genuine Letter is produced, that Words to the effect will appear; else how could Conway acknowledge to Col. Stewart that he had wrote such a Letter, or how could Doctr Hutchison have heard this identical passage mentioned in Philadelphia before he left that

City. I am with the most profound respect and the firmest Attachment, Your Excellencys, Obliged & ready Servant

James Wilkinson


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Woodford, 28 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Woodford, William

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 28th March 1778.

You are immediately upon your arrival in Virginia ⟨to⟩ take the most speedy and effectual means for forwarding ⟨a⟩ll the Drafts, Recruits and reinlisted Men to Camp. It being determined to innoculate them here, they are ⟨n⟩ot to be detained upon that account. The officers are to be ⟨o⟩rdered to march them moderately and not by any means to halt in any Villages or at any Houses in which there any person in the small pox. You are also to order all officers to join their Corps whose furloughs have expired, or who were ⟨n⟩ot limited to any particular time, except those who are employ⟨e⟩d by the State in collecting and forwarding the Drafts, or upon ⟨a⟩ny necessary duty. You are so well acquainted with the situation ⟨of o⟩ur Affairs that I need not repeat to you the many Reasons ⟨that⟩ might be assigned for drawing our Reinforcements together ⟨as ex⟩peditiously as possible; the most striking one is that the ⟨Enem⟩y are drawing in theirs. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: General Orders, 29 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Sabbath March 29th 1778.
Islington—Ireland. Ixworth.

As the stormy weather prevents the Brigade Inspectors &c. meeting this day agreeable to yesterdays orders, the Sub and Brigade Inspectors with the Officers and non commission’d Officers who were to have assembled at Head-Quarters this day ten ôClock will attend the first fair day at said time and place. The following Officers are appointed Brigade Inspectors and are to be obeyed & respected as such in the respective Brigades.

Coll Tupper in General Patterson’s Brigade
Lieutt Coll Sprout in Glovers.
Major Wallace in Woodford’s—
Major Cabbel in Weedon’s—
Major Hull in Larned’s—
Major Fish in Poor’s.
Major Bloomfield in Maxwell’s
Major Ryan in 1st Pennsylvania
Major Huling in Late Conway’s—
Captn Smith in Varnum’s.
Captain Converse in Huntington’s
Captain Ingles in McIntosh’s—&
Captain McGowin in 2nd Pennsylvania—

Captain Walker of Coll Livingston’s Regiment is appointed Brigade Major pro temp. in General Poor’s Brigade & is to be obeyed & respected as such.


Title: To George Washington from Bryan Fairfax, 29 March 1778
From: Fairfax, Bryan
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Alexandria [Va.] March the 29. 1778.

I had the Pleasure of writing to Your Excellency some time in the last Winter, and tho’ I then did not expect to hear from You, yet upon this Occasion I hope to be favoured with a Line—Mr Custis is willing to receive what I owe him at the rate of 33⅓ Exchange, which appears to me so much to his disadvantage considering the price of everyn Thing at present, that while I was getting the money which I expect every month, I thought it proper to have Your opinion on it—I am very sensible that it was thro’ your Kindness that I received & had the Use of the Money and do not choose that Mr Custis should be a Loser by it. I should think it more equitable to make up in some measure the difference without mentioning the Exchange which I was thinking of proposing had I received the money I lately expected.
I have just received (since I began this) Yr kind Favour of the 1st March, but must postpone writing more fuller till another Opportunity, for it hath pleased God to take from us our daughter Sally—She died here this morning—As you observe what must I have felt had I been in another Country—far distant from my Family! but I thought I was making a great Sacrifice—that for ought I knew I was quitting all for the Kingdom of Heaven’s Sake (Short sighted Mortals) For I feared my own Weakness—that I might be tempted to wound my own Mind. What a Cross it was to me to oppose Your Sentiments at first. but I lost nothing by it, neither I believe will any man lose in the End by acting uprightly.
When you mention their forging Letters at first I thought you might be mistaken but when you mention your own, in that you cannot be mistaken unless it be with regard to the Party doing it. I believe they have in general a good opinion of Yr Excellency—If any should suppose what is published, it may arise from that false conclusion that some make; that if a man acts so and so he must have a bad Heart, and on the contrary if he is believed to have a good Heart that then he cannot act so or think thus without being misled. Providence can more easily cause Wars by suffering or causing opposite Parties to see Things

in a different Light. As to my own Part I gave no one any Reason to judge of Yr Excellency in any manner different from the Truth—what I said was in general Terms rather abstracted from Politicks, and the Substance of what I said at S.I. was that you rather esteemed a man that acted from principle than otherwise, tho’ there should be a difference in Sentiments. No one saw Yr Letters neither had I Any Thoughts of shewing them except it might be to Friends on occasion; but that they never occurred to my mind was a proof among others of a superior Power over ruling.
I was Yesterday at Mt Vernon, where I hope it will please God to return You in Time, & like the House because it is uncommon for there has always appeared too great a Sameness in our Buildings. Mrs Fairfax joins with me in Respects to Yr Excellency & Mrs Washington and I remain with great Regard Yr Excellency’s most obliged & affect: hble Servt

Bryan Fairfax.

I hope to be excused for not sending one more fair considering our Situation.


Title: From George Washington to General William Howe, 29 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, William

Sir
Head Qrs [Valley Forge] 29th March 1778

I have been favoured with your Letter of the 27th Instant.
I agree with you, that German Town shall be considered a neutral place during the meeting of the Commissioners, and that no Troops shall be permitted to enter it, while they are there, except the guards mutually sent to attend them. With due respect I am Sir Yr Most Obed. servant.

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 29 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 29th March 1778

I have been honored with yours of the 25th inclosing duplicates of two former Resolves of Congress, and a Resolve of the 23d instant accepting the Resignation of Colonel Charles Webb.
Since mine of the 24th Mr Boudinot has communicated the following intelligence being part of a letter to him “I have lately recd some intelligence from New York that we may make ourselves easy in Jersey as all the force that can be spared is to be sent to join Genl Howe—2500 are actually on board transports and lying at the watering place.”
I have this day recd a letter from Genl Smallwood dated yesterday at Wilmington, in which he says “The Enemy about four days ago had a Fleet of near 50 Sail standing up the River which I fancy was from New York and yesterday their foraging Fleet went up without touching upon this side the Delaware except three or four small parties about port penn who have been constantly drove off by a party of about 100 of our Men who have been guarding and aiding the removal of the forage which is at length happily effected.”
A Philada paper of the 27th also mentions “that a Fleet of upwards of 40 sail had left the Hook on sunday and that they were said to be in the River.”
From all the above circumstances I have no doubt but the Troops have arrived from New York. I have heard nothing further from Rhode Island since I wrote to you last. I have the Honor to be Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 29 March 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
29th March 1778

Since my last of the 25th by Colonel Armand I have had the honour of presenting to Congress your Excellency’s favours of the 24th & 24th Inst. the former Committed to the Board of War & not reported—the latter came under Cover from Colo. Lewis of Virginia accompanied by his Commission which Congress have received & accepted that Gentleman’s resignation—Congress by an Act of the 24th Inst. accepted also the Resignation of Brigadier General Learned.
Inclosed herein Your Excellency will receive two Acts of Congress. Vizt.

1. 19th March. Recommending to the several States to take the most speedy & effectual measures for raising their respective quota of Men for procuring complete Sets of Accountrements &ca.
2. 28th March. for authorizing Count Paulaski to raise an Independent Corps &ca retaining his Rank of Brigadier General in the Army.

Colonel Armand is now or will probably be in Camp in a few days, I therefore judge it proper to return the Inclosed Letter directed by your Excellency to that Gentleman. I have the honour to be with the utmost Esteem & Respect.


Title: From George Washington to James Lovell, 29 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Lovell, James

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 29th March 1778

I have been favd with yours of the 24th and 26th instants. The latter by Mr de Francy, who delivered me the several things mentioned in Mr Penets letter. You have my thanks for you care in forwarding them. Several accounts corroborate the probability of the evacuation of Rhode Island, and a number of Men are embarked at New York. I have not the least doubt but they are meant to reinforce Genl Howe, and have therefore wrote pressingly to all the States to forward their Recruits.
You may depend upon my paying Gray his Wages upon application. If he ever applied before, I refused to settle with him then, because he wanted the proper testimonials.
I think the admission of our Vessels to an entry in the Custom House of Martinique and receiving the duty upon our goods on account of the Government, is a clear proof of the intention of France to encourage and protect our trade. The warlike manner in which they now fit out their merchantmen also indicates a jealousy between the Courts of Versailles and London. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 29 March 1778
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Fish Kill [N.Y.] 29th march 1778.

At Morris Town on the 21st instant, I was honored with the receipt of your Excellency’s favor of the 16th, containing your orders to take charge of these Posts, and inclosing the Commission to hold the Court of enquiry. The confidence you are pleased to place in me in this

command, is very flattering to me, and calls for my utmost exertion to discharge it; and if posible agreeable to your wishes. But I fear I shall not be able to accomplish them, to my own satisfaction, much less to yours. The objects to be attended to in this department, are so many in ordinary circumstances, when we had Forts on the river, and a Tolerable Force in its neighbourhood, that it was extreamly difficult, for an officer who had the command, to Maintain his Reputation. But the backwardness of the new works, considering the advanced season, and the Total derangment of almost every department at this Post, occationed by various Causes, have so greatly multiplied the difficulties of the command, that I have but Litle Hopes of maintaining my Reputation, if the Enemy should in Force, pay us an Early Vissit. The attention and dispatch necessary to be given to the court of enquiry, considering the pressing circumstances of the members, and those who will be obliged to attend the Court, will prevent my giving that assistance to the Post, which my reputation demands. For these reasons the command is far from being a desireable one to me. But tis a soldiers duty to obey, and I chearfully take my Lott, of the difficulties of the Times. General Putnam did not arrive here till late yesterday. The Court opens to morrow. Congress have ordered General Conway to this Post. Time will only permit me to add, that I am with great truth and regard, Your Excellency’s very Humble Servant

Alexr McDougall


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 29 March 1778
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Fishkill [N.Y.] 29th March 78

General Huntington deliver’d me your Letter of the 16th Inst. I am at this place; and will Attend the Court of Enquiry which is to meet to Morrow—As soon as it is finish’d, I shall return to Connecticut, and endeavour to forward on the New Levies, with the utmost Expedition, in Conformity to your Orders, tho’ I fear, my success will not Answer your Expectation. I am with the utmost Respect Your Excellency’s most Hume Servt—

Israel Putnam


Title: From George Washington to Lund Washington, 29 March 1778 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Lund

Letter not found: to Lund Washington, 29 Mar. 1778. On 8 April, Lund Washington wrote GW, “Yours of March 29th by Genrl Woodford was deliverd me on monday.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General George Weedon, 29 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Weedon, George

Dear Sir
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 29th March 1778.

Inclosed you will receive a copy of a Resolution of Congress, respecting the Rank of the Brigadiers in the Virginia Line—by this you will perceive they have given General Woodford the precedence he claimed.
In my letter of the 15th, I mentioned my sentiments upon this subject and that it was my Opinion the parties interested should acquiesce in whatever decision might be given concerning it—this I still wish, and the pressing necessity there is for General Officers in Camp induces me again to request your most expeditious return. At the same time if you are determined not to serve in inferior rank to Generals Woodford & Scott—you will be pleased to inform, as the State of the Virginia Troops in such case, will demand another immediate appointment in your room. I am Dear Sir Your most obedient Servt

G.W.


Title: General Orders, 30 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Monday March 30th 1778.
Kingsbridge—Kendal. Kittery.

The General Court-Martial whereof Coll Ogden is President is dissolved and another ordered to sit tomorrow ten oClock at the usual Place whereof Coll Vose is appointed President to try all Persons who shall be brought before them—Each Brigade gives a Captain for the Court. A Sub Serjeant & two privates from General McIntosh’s Brigade furnished with three days provision to attend at the Clothier’s Store tomorrow A.M. to receive the Commissary of Prisoners directions.
As the operations of the ensuing Campaign whether offensive or defensive renders it indispensibly necessary that the Spare baggage of the Army should be at a distance from this Camp, and it may be inconvenient,

perhaps impracticable (for want of teams) to remove it at the instant it may be become absolutely necessary, The General desires that the officers will loose no time in disengaging themselves from every thing they can possibly part with: On the means for removing it they will consult the Quarter Master General who may have empty Waggons returning from Camp.
At a General Court Martial whereof Coll Swift was President March 23rd 1778. Lieutt Coll P. Regnier tried for disobedience of Orders and refusal to do duty when required by his superior Officer in a stile unbecoming an inferior officer and acquitted of the charge exhibited against him with honor.
His Excellency the Commander in Chief approves the sentence and orders Lieutt Coll Regnier to be immediately discharged from his arrest.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 30 March 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir.
30th March 1778

I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency Yesterday by Genl duportail.
At reading the Journal this Morning Congress reconsidered the Act of the 28th for authorizing Count Pulaski to raise a seperate Corps & expunged the words “Prisoners &” which stood in the last Sentence & your Excellency will receive within the present Inclosure a Copy of the Act as now amended.
I likewise inclose an Act of Congress of this date for securing the Exchange & inlargement of Major General Lee & for other purposes relative to the intended Cartel for the Exchange of Prisoners to which I beg leave to refer. I have the honour to be with great Regard & Esteem &ca.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General George Weedon, 30 March 1778
From: Weedon, George
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Fredericksburg [Va.] March 30th 1778

On my ariving in Virginia found that the resolution of our assembly respecting the draught had been carried into effect, but imprudently the men alloted for the Service ware allowed to disperse on furlough instead of being immediately sent on. From this unguarded measure I much dread a very considerable Dimunition of their Numbers, as most of the Counties that have already sent forward their men, have been more or less Deficient. I was apprehensive this would be the case and wrote the Govenor requesting his special Order to the County Lieutenants to have them assembly’d immediately and sent on under the Command of Continental Officers, And previous to your Excellencies orders of the 20th Inst. (which was only yesterday Communicated to me) Several had passed this place who ware Directed to be Innoculated at the first Convenient Post, And am advised that at Alexandria there are Sixty, and at George Town between 3 & 400 including the North Carolina Regiment that are under Innoculation and will in a short time be able to proceed. The 2d State Regiment with Draughts from the lower Counties (a return of which I inclose you) Arrived in Town last Night, and shall March to day, Colonal Smith who Commands them brought Orders from the Govenor to Innoculate at Alexandria, I have however sent them by the Routs of Leesburg, Nolands Ferry, and Frederick Town in Maryland as free’st from the Smallpox, and much the best and Nearest way. Colo. Smith is furnished with your Excellencies Directions, which shall also be punctually observed by the parties that follow. The reason of the state Regiments being so weak, 300 it seems of them, ware under Innoculation at York, and will march as soon as able. I shall set of[f] for Head Quarters immediately after the sale of Genl Mercers estate which will be on the 16th of next Month, and shall in the meantime use every exertion to forward reinforcements, Am sorry however to inform your Excellency that a Continuence of my Service is uncertain, as by a late report of a board of officers, sent to Congress, I am informed they have deranged the Virginia line, of General officers and after my serving so long as second in Command, have given boath Woodford & Scott precedence of me. The instan⟨ce⟩ of General Woodfords relitive pretentions is without Example, your Excellency knew my determination if that took place long before I left Camp, and I hope you will not look on my adopting the Measure so near the Approach of a Campaign as incompatable with the Gentleman, and officer, I ask but justice in the known tract of all Armies and defye the world to produce such another instance as Woodfords, unless to get rid of a worthless Officer, who Stood in the

way of a favorite. I can conster his being put over me at this day, (after what has passed) in no other language and am sure you know too much of the feelings of an officer who knows he has done his duty, while in office, than to blame me for resenting it.
Colo. Lewis is just returned from the Country where he has been under Innoculation, has had a very favourable time during the Disorder and is perfectly recovered. Mrs Lewis was unfortunate enough to take it in the natural way during his absence, She however has it but slightly and will soon be about again, Mrs Washington underg⟨oes⟩ great uneasiness for fear she should take it, She cannot be persuaded to Innoculate, tho’ it has been, and is now in almost every House in Town & Country—Our Bay swarms with Men of war and Tenders, several arrivals however have eluded their Vigilence and got in, w⟨ith⟩ Valuable Cargoes, Nine sail of Frenchmen, and a danish ship, it is said are taken of Ocracoke by one of the Guntredges. I have the honor to be with all due Regd and Esteem Your Excellencies Most Obt Sert

G. Weedon


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Isaac Beall, 31 March 1778 [letter not found]
From: Beall, Isaac
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Isaac Beall, 31 Mar. 1778. GW wrote Beall on 31 Mar., “I have received your Letter of this date.”


Title: From George Washington to Major Isaac Beall, 31 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Beall, Isaac

Sir
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 31st March 1778.

I have received your Letter of this date inclosing your Commission. The frequency of Resignations throughout the army is truly alarming, in the Virginia Line this Spirit unhappily seems to rage like an epidemical disease—I am at a loss to account how Gentlemen can reconcile such an abandonment of the Public Interest, at this crisis of our Affairs, either with the principles of honor or their duty to themselves and their Country—if however you think yourself warranted, and are determined to quit the Army, I must at least insist upon your retaining your Commission till the Arrival of more Officers in Camp. I am Sir Your most obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Bowdoin, 31 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Bowdoin, James

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 31st March ⟨1778⟩

The evil which I apprehended from the enlistm⟨ent⟩ of Deserters, as pointed out in my letter of the 17th instant, has already made its appearance. One of the Colonels informs me that every British Deserter sent to his Regt, except one, has already gone off. One of these people, a few Nights ago, took off a light Horse with his accoutrements from an advanced picket. I hope upon this proof of the infidelity of the above described Class that a total Stop will be put to the hiring them. It is n⟨ow⟩ prohibited by an express Resolve of Congress passe⟨d⟩ a few weeks ago.
I hope before this reaches you that ⟨part of your⟩ Levies are upon their march to join the Regiment⟨s⟩ to which they are allotted. Genl Howe is beginning to draw his Reinforcements together, and I can with truth assure you that if he begins his operations before there is an addition made to our present force that we shall not be able to make that stand which is expected from us. I hope this short but true state of facts will induce you to exert yourselves to the utmost to forward the Recruits. Such as are not innoculated, need not be detained for that purpose, as it may be done conveniently in and near Camp, and these two great advantages will result from it, that we shall have the service of the patients upon an emergency, and they will not have a long march to perform after their recovery, which often debilitates them the remainder of the Campaign and is more fatal than the disorder itself.
I have no doubt but proper care will be taken to procure Cloathing for the Men before they march, or have it sent forward that it may be ready for them upon their arrival. I hope a due attention will also be paid to keeping up a sufficient quantity ⟨of⟩ cloathing, that the Soldier may never be reduced ⟨to⟩ want and nakedness. Not only a loss from sickness follows the want of covering, but desertion to a very great degree.

I am astonished, considering the sufferings the Men have undergone, that more of them have not left us. I have the Honor to be with great Respect Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Continental Navy Board, 31 March 1778
From: Continental Navy Board
To: Washington, George

Continental Navy Board Borden Town [N.J.] 31 Mar: 1778
Sir.

Mr Morton having engaged a Brigade of Waggons to convey some Indian Meal to Camp and not having Employ for all the Waggons we take the Opportunity of forwarding 13 Hogsheads of salt Fish, being part of the Supplies we mentioned to your Excellency in our last, intended for the Use of the Army. The Remainder, consisting of Rice, Oil, Beef, Pork, Salt, Vinegar &c. &c. shall be forwarded as soon as this Brigade returns or another can be procured.
We wish to know to whom we shall address these Supplies, in Order that proper Receipts may be obtained for our Vindication. We have the Honour to be your Excellency’s most obedient humble servts

Fras Hopkinson
John Wharton

P:S: It would give us great Satisfaction to hear there was any Probability of Capt. Robinson’s Release, so unjustly imprisoned at Philada.


Title: To George Washington from Nicholas Cooke, 31 March 1778
From: Cooke, Nicholas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Providence March 31st 1778.

Your Excellency wrote me on the 14th of March, 1777. that General Howe had applied to you for the Discharge of Mr Hutchinson who was One of the Council and Secretary of Dominica and of Govr Shirley’s Son who were then Prisoners here; and requested me to discharge them accordingly. you were pleased to tell me at the same Time that you did not doubt but General Howe would on Application release any of our Friends in his Hands who were not in the military Line. I immediately dismiss’d the young Gentlemen of which I inform’d you, and also related the Circumstances of their Capture and being brought into this State. As it is probable they have escaped your Memory I beg Leave to repeat them. In April 1776. John Chace, Master of a small trading Vessel belonging to this Place was taken by the Mercury, was kept in Irons 13 Weeks, and afterwards entered upon the Ships Books as a press’d Man, and carried to Great-Britain. Capt. William Chace his Father, Commander of a private Vessel of War from this Port in the Summer following made Prize of a Vessel in which the two abovenamed young Gentlemen were Passengers. With an Intention that they should be made Use of to redeem his Son, He took them onboard his own Vessel, and brought them in; and with that View they were detained until you requested their Dismission. After acquainting your Excellency with these Circumstances, I begged the Favour of you to apply for Capt. John Chace’s Discharge. Your Answer was that you thought it reasonable, would certainly make the Application, and had no Doubt of its being successful. Here the Affair hath rested until very lately when Capt. Chace hearing of his Son’s being on board the Venus in this River renewed his application to me. Not having Recourse to your Letter, I thought that the Application had been made to your Excellency by Lord Howe, and wrote to his Lordship upon that Supposition and begged the Releasement of Capt. John Chace. His Lordship returned me this Answer, that not being conscious of having solicited in Behalf of Mr Hutchinson and Mr Shirley he chose to make a further Inquiry before he gave a final Answer. I would further inform you that Capt. John Chace being very ill in Consequence of the cruel Treatment he received on board the Mercury was thrown into Chelsea Hospital where after some Time he partly recover’d and by the Advice of a Doctor Linn who proved his Friend entered on board the Venus which was then ready to Sail upon the American Station, in the capacity of a Mate

as the only Means of avoiding being sent to the East-Indies, or at least being put on board One of the Guard-Ships, from whence his Prospect of getting Home would have been very small. I will trouble your Excellency no further than just to add, that the Sufferings of Capt. Chace hath made him liable to Fits, which renders him unfit for the Sea; and that a reputable Family are now very unhappy upon his Account. I beg the Favor of your Excellency to apply to General Howe to interest himself with his Lordship to release Capt. Chace, and am with great Respect, Sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Hble Servt

Nichs Cooke

P.S. Capt. Chace hath written to Lord Howe upon the Subject I inclose his Letter open, and request it may be forwarded. I have made an Apology to his Lordship for the Mistake, which I also desire may be forwarded.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 31 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Valley Forge March 31st 1778.

200,000 Bushels of Grain and as much Hay as can be drawn in from both sides of Delaware, to be lodged on the banks of Delaware from Trenton upwards.
200,000 Bushels of Grain and as much Hay as can be procured, at different posts on Schuylkill.
200,000 Bushels of Grain and as much Hay as can be procured within 40 Miles of the Camp, to be fixed at different posts from the Head of Elk to Camp.
100,000 Bushels of Grain and a proportionate quantity of Hay on the Line from Reading to Wright’s ferry on Susquehannah at different posts.
100,000 Bushels of Grain and a proportionate quantity of Hay on the Line of Communication between Delaware and Hudson’s River.
All the Hay to be screwed in Bundles—40,000 Bushels of Grain &

Hay in proportion, at Trenton, Allentown, and other lower parts of Jersey.

Sir, I approve of the above places for Magazines, with this proviso, that the one at Trenton shall not (in it’s full extent) be immediately formed, and that the others upon that River shall be tolerably high up, for security. The Quantity is, I presume, the result of estimation—for obvious reasons, I should prefer a number of small magazines to a few large ones—and think, if they were laid in quarterly—or for a term not exceeding four, or six months, it would be adviseable and proper; as the theatre of War may change—and taxation must reduce the price of every commodity.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General John Lacey, Jr., 31 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Lacey, John Jr.

Sir
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 31st March 1778

I have received your Letter of the 29th and in answer to your Plan of removing all the Inhabitants in the vicinity of the Enemys Lines, with a view of stopping the communication between the city and the Country—have to observe that the measure is rather desirable than practicable—if it could be carried into execution, it would undoubtedly put an end to the pernicious illicit Commerce which at present subsists—but the difficulties attending the removal of so many inhabitants with their effects may be regarded as insurmountable—& at the same time, the horror of depopulating a whole district, however little consideration the Majority of the parties concerned may deserve from us, would forbid the measure.
With respect to the Culprits, whom you have in confinement, if any of them are notorious Characters, and have capitally offended, you will have them tried by a Court Martial, and transmit me their Sentences for confirmation. I am Sir &c.


Title: To George Washington from Captain Henry Lee, Jr., 31 March 1778
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Camp [Valley Forge] March 31st 78.

I should do violence to my own feelings, was I to depart from Camp, without testifying the high sense of gratitude I feel for your Excellency’s

approbation of my conduct. I assure you Sir, to deserve a continuance of your Excellency’s patronage, will be a stimulus to glory, second to none in power, of the many, that operate on my soul. “It is not in mortals to command success,” to deserve it, shall be the object of my unwearied attention.
I must here take the liberty of laying before your Excellency, the reasons which have influence on my judgement, respecting the proposal you was pleased to make me thro’ Col. Hamilton.
Permit me to premise that I am wedded to my sword, and that my secondary object in the present war, is military reputation.
To have possessed a post about your Excellency’s person is certainly the first recommendation I can bear to posterity, affords a field for military instruction, would lead me into an intimate acquaintance with the politics of the States, and might present more immediate opportunitys of manifesting my high respect and warm attachment for your Excellencys character and person. I know, it would also afford true and unexpected joy to my parents and friends.
On the contrary, I possess a most affectionate friendship for my soldiers, a fraternal love for the two officers who have served with me, a zeal for the honor of the Cavalry, and ⟨an⟩ opinion, that I should render m⟨ore⟩ real service to your Excellency’s arms.
Having thus shortly stated the reasons which operate on my mind, I will only say, that I most chearfully will act in any character your Excellency may call me to, and that the second satisfaction I can possibly enjoy, is my knowledge that my behavior has met with your Excellency’s approbation. I have the honor to be with the most profound respect and perfect esteem your very obet Servt

Heny Lee jr


Title: To George Washington from Officers of the 1st Connecticut Regiment, 31 March 1778
From: Officers of the 1st Connecticut Regiment,Darrow, Christopher
To: Washington, George

Camp, Valley Forge 31st March, 1778

To His Excellency Geo. Washington Esq.; General and Commander in Chief of the Armies of the United States of America: The Petition of the commissioned Officers of the first Connecticut Regiment, Humbly Sheweth, That Your Petitioners, since they took the field the last Campaign to the present time, have been destitute of a chief Colonel to the Regimt—Our Lieut: Colonel, daily expecting some other gentleman would be put over him to command the Regiment, did not exert himself for the honor & benefit of the same, as he probably would have done had his situation been otherwise. The necessary inconveniences then, we have laboured under on this account, are too obvious to be particularis’d to Your Excellency: To avoid which, in future, and that the regiment may make that respectable & martial appearance which was intended by the first worthy Colonel of it; Your Petitioners humbly beg leave to request of your Excellency that a Colonel be appointed to the said regiment before the opening of the approaching campaign. And Your Petitioners further beg leave to petition your Excellency, that we may be indulged in having Lieut. Colonel Sherman; (whose accomplishments as an Officer, & a Gentleman, we highly vallue,) appointed to the command of said regiment, which we humbly concieve would greatly add to the peace & honour of the Same; and Your Petitioners, as in duty bound shall ever pray. Signed in behalf of the comission’d Officers of the afforsd Regiment.

Christor Darrow Capt: Com’dt


Title: From George Washington to Major General Riedesel, 31 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Riedesel, Friedrich Adolph (Adolf) von

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 31st March 1778

It is some time since I have been honored with yours of the 11th January, to which I should have replied sooner, had I not been obliged to wait for an answer from General Gates upon the subject of your letter. He says you never applied directly to him for the exchange of Yourself, or any German Officers either of your own family or the Corps; but that he was told at Albany that you and Major General Phillips had separately applied to Sir William Howe to be exchanged for General Lee, and had been answered that as General prescot had been first taken he must be first exchanged. I imagine from the foregoing that General Gates must have misunderstood you, as he says he should have had no objection to exchanging the Foreign as well as the British Officers.
Commissioners from me are now negotiating a general Exchange of prisoners with Commissioners from Sir William Howe. If they agree upon terms I shall not have the least objection to exchanging a proportion of Foreign as well as British Officers. But you will please to observe that this is a matter which depends solely upon Sir William Howe’s pleasure, as he has a right to demand such officers as he thinks proper for an equal number of equal Rank: But I should suppose that justice to his Allies would point out the equity of an impartial Exchange. I have the Honor to be with Respect Sir Your most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 1 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Wednesday April 1st 1778.
Morristown—Marblehead. Munster.

Some Brigades were late in sending their men on the Parade this morning; The General is willing to attribute this to the difference in Watches, and to the end that greater punctuality may be observed in future with respect to time, the Adjutant General is to regulate his Watch by the Clock at Head-Quarters, the Brigade Majors by his and the Adjutants by their Brigade Major.
The Guard at the Bridge is in future to consist of a Captain, two Subs, three Serjeants and thirty six Rank and File whereof one Sub, one Serjeant and sixteen rank & file are to be posted on the other side; ’Tis expected that the guard will be very attentive to their duty and suffer no soldier to pass without written leave from the Commanding officer of the Regiment he belongs to.


Title: To George Washington from Patrick Henry, 1 April 1778 [letter not found]
From: Henry, Patrick
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Patrick Henry, 1 April. GW wrote Henry on 19 April, “I have the honor of yours of the 1st inst.” Also, on 1 April, Henry “laid before the Board a Letter which he had prepared to General Washington” (Va. State Council JournalsH. R. McIlwaine et al., eds. Journals of the Council of the State of Virginia. 5 vols. Richmond, 1931–82., 2:114).


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 1 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 1st April 1778

Since I had the honor of addressing you upon the 29th ulto I have not been able to learn, with any precision, whether the transports that arrived brought any considerable number of Troops. A Hessian Deserter says there were only a few German convalescents on board. If so, the Fleet, with 2500 mentioned in my last, is not arrived; supposing they were bound to Philada.
General Sinclair arrived yesterday from Boston, and as he seems very anxious to have his matter determined one way or the other, I beg leave to recall the attention of Congress to my letter of the 27th Feby upon that subject. Having recd no information since that time which serves to direct my judgment as to the charges which it will be proper to exhibit against Genl Sinclair, I have only again to request that Congress or the Committee will be pleased to point out the particular charges upon which the Court shall proceed.
I could wish this matter might not be delayed, on several accounts.

General Sinclair is in a very delicate Situation, and feels it sensibly. He was kept inactive great part of last Campaign, and probably will be the whole of this, except his trial can be shortly brought on, as it will be almost impossible to find time to hold a Court after the scene of Action opens. If he should be acquitted, he would render very essential Service, especially at this time, when we have so few General Officers—If condemned, his place may be immediately filled. It will besides take him some little time to prepare for his defence after he knows the particular Charges alledged against him. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect Sir Your most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Captain Henry Lee, Jr., 1 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry Jr.

Dr Sir
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 1st April 1778.

By your favor of yesterday I am made acquainted with the feelings of your mind on the subject of my proposal communicated to you by Col. Hamilton; the undisguised manner in which you express yourself cannot but strengthen my good opinion of you—as the offer on my part was purely the result of a high Sense of your merit, and as I would by no means divert you from a Career in which you promise yourself greater happiness from it’s affording more frequent opportunities of acquiring military fame, I entreat you to pursue your own Inclinations

as if nothing had passed on this subject, and to be assured of the good wishes of Dear Sir—Yours &c.


Title: General Orders, 2 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Thursday April 2nd 1778.
Norwich—New-Market Newtown.

A soldier from each Brigade acquainted with driving a Waggon to be paraded tomorrow morning at Guard mounting and to be employ’d in the Waggon Master General’s department ’till the Waggoners inlisted for that Purpose come into Camp.
The Inspector of 1st Pennsylvania Brigade will command the Parade tomorrow; he will bring with him two Adjutants of his Brigade and when the Parade is over remit the Command for next day to the Inspector of 2nd Pennsylvania Brigade and his two Adjutants who are desir’d to attend the Parade tomorrow for that purpose.
The same method to be observed in regular rotation; The Inspector

General purposes exercising the officers of 2nd Pennsylvania Brigade at ten oClock tomorrow and at 11 ôClock those of General Poor’s Brigade.
As the Stumps and brush in front of the New Lines afford an excellent obstacle to the approaches of an Enemy, it is expressly forbid that any part of it should be burnt by the fatigue parties or any others for the distance of extreme Musquet range in front of the Lines, of which all officers commanding Regiments are to take particular notice—There is a sufficiency of wood within the lines to furnish Stakes for the works.
Coll Josias Carvel Hall tried by a General Court Martial held at Wilmington the 20th ultimo by order of Brigadier General Smallwood whereof Coll Richardson was President on the Charge of refusing to comply with a General order issued on an Emergency and calculated to aid the service which at that juncture could not be otherwise remedied, and for unofficerlike behavior in threatning to blow out the brains of any officer who should head the party to execute the same was acquitted in the following terms; “The Court with respect to the first Charge exhibited against Coll Hall are of opinion that the order issued in that instance was not military, nor conveyed thro’ a military Channel—That the General by conveying it thro’ the hands of the Quarter-Master in the nature of an Impressment, not even addressed to Coll Hall, was an actual confession that he had not a right to expect or exact a compliance with the order by virtue of his superior Command; and with respect to the second charge, altho’ the Court does by no means approve of Coll Hall’s intentions or threats of resisting by force the officer sent to execute the order, yet as they can easily account for it from the keen and sensible feeling of a person in his situation, and as a few moments of cool reflection determined him to act otherwise, we acquit him of unofficerlike behavior, and upon the whole are unanimously of opinion that he is not guilty of the charges exhibited against him and therefore acquit him with honor.[”]
It is with much concern the Commander in Chief thinks himself obliged in propriety to disapprove of the determination; He is clearly of opinion that the order issued thro’ Coll Sherriff Division Quarter-Master was regular & obligatory; regular because General Smallwood as commanding Officer of a detach’d Post must be supposed to be officially vested with every power necessary for the good of it and consequently that of impressing horses on an Emergency & because the Division Quarter Master was the proper Channel thro’ which it should operate agreeable to the practice of Armies and to the true spirit and design of General orders; Obligatory, because it was the orders of a superior and Commanding officer and from the face of the evidence appears

to have been founded in the necessity of the Case & calculated to promote the service.
Coll Hall’s refusal to comply with the order was a blameable opposition to the Command of his superior Officer acting in the line of his duty, and the violent threats thrown out against any person who should have a party to execute it were at least highly indelicate and improper—Coll Hall is released from his arrest.
At a General Court Martial whereof Coll Swift was President (March 23rd)—Major Thomas Forrest tried for sending Colonel Crane Commanding Officer of Artillery an insolent and unwarrantable Letter; It appeared to the Court that Major Forest was President of a Court Martial when he wrote the Letter he was arrested for and that it was done by order of the Court, they are of opinion that he is not personally liable for writing the letter, at the same time are of opinion, having considered the Circumstances, that the letter is not insolent or unwarrantable. The Commander in Chief confirms the opinion and orders Major Forrest to be discharged from his arrest.


Title: General Orders, 3 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Friday April 3rd 1778.
Oakham.Otis Oxford.

The works of the New-Line being very carelessly executed in many Parts, and the Representations of the Engineer to the Officers commanding fatigue Parties hitherto been of no Avail, the General calls upon the several Brigadiers to inspect the Parts which have been alotted to their several Brigades and order their defects to be remedied, which appears to be principally owing to the Stakes and those of the exterior face being placed too perpendicularly.
At a General Court Martial whereof Coll Ogden was President March 24th 78, William Morgan an Inhabitant of the State of Pennsylvania tried for coming out of Philadelphia stealing a horse and attempting to carry him back to the City, found guilty of a breach of a resolution of Congress dated October 8th 77—and extended by another and sentenced two thirds agreeing to be kept at hard labor during the Contest with Great-Britain not less than thirty miles from the Enemy’s Camp and if he is caught making his Escape to suffer Death.
At a General Court Martial whereof Coll Vose was President March 31st 1778—Lieutent Anderson of 11th Pennsylvania Regiment

tried for behaving in a manner unbecoming the Character of an officer and Gentleman, found guilty of the Charge exhibited against him, being a breach of 21st Article, 14th Section of the Articles of War and sentenced to be discharg’d from the service.
His Excellency the Commander in Chief approves the aforegoing sentences and orders them to take place.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Josias Carvil Hall, 3 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Hall, Josias Carvil

Sir.
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 3d April 1778

However painful it is to me to signify my public disapprobation of a Sentence solemnly pronounced by a Court Martial—it is a disagreeable sensation from which my Duty forbids me to exempt myself in particular instances—such a one is that which makes the subject of your favour of the 26th Ulto—A Refusal to obey the Commands of a superior officer, especially where the duty required was evidently calculated for the good of the service—cannot be justified without involving consequences subversive of all Military Discipline—a Precedent manifestly too dangerous, would be established, of dispensing with orders, and subordination would be at an end—if mens ideas were not rectified in a case of this kind, and such notice taken, as has been on my part.
As far as the matter personally regards you I feel additional concern; but I can by no means discover that necessity of retiring from the Service in support of a mistaken opinion, which you remotely hint at—

On the contrary from the Crisis at which our affairs have arrived and the frequent defection of Officers seduced by views of private interest and emolument to abandon the cause of their Country—I think every man who does not merely make profession of Patriotism is bound by indissoluble ties to remain in the Army—My advice in which I flatter myself you will coincide, after a dispassionate review of this matter—is therefore, that differences may be mutually forgot, and that the whole may subside—to which your Love of the Service will I hope in no small degree contribute—and I remain &c.


Title: To George Washington from General William Howe, 3 April 1778
From: Howe, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia 3d April 1778.

I am concerned to find your Commissioners entertained an idea that German Town was to be a place of constant residence during their negociation, which was by no means my design, as it could not fail to give rise to disputes and jealousies by the occasional intervention of patrols so near to this City, an inconvenience only to be avoided by the Commissioners on both sides retiring after their meetings within or near to their own lines, as was the case when Lieutenant Colonels Harrison and Walcot were engaged on a similar business in Jersey—If I had conceived it would have been otherwise understood I should have been more explicit in accepting your proposal of German Town being the place of treaty.
As it is considered expedient that the Commissioners should remain together for the dispatch of business, I have no objection to your naming any place where the inconveniences I have mentioned cannot arise to either party, such as Burlington, Bristol, Chester, or any other Town. The place of meeting to be changed at any time as may be requisite by the consent of the Commissioners.
To remove any distrust that may arise by my detaining of General Lee, which I still think I should be justified in doing, until Lieut. Colo. Campbell and the Hessian Field Officers who have been so long in confinement were first restored, I have ordered that he be at liberty to pass my lines to morrow morning, under a parole similar to the one given to Major General Prescott, and to take any route he may think proper—I trust, Sir, therefore to your ordering the gentlemen aforementioned to be sent in here without delay, and Officers of equal Rank, who have been longest on my list of prisoners, will be immediately announced

at liberty, or sent out on the earliest intimation of their approach—Orders are already given respecting the release of Lieut. Colo. Ethan Allen. I am with due respect Sir Your most obedient Servant

W. Howe


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 3 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

Sir.
Head Quarters Valley Forge 3d April 1778

Captain Lee of the light Dragoons and the Officers under his command having uniformly distinguished themselves by a conduct of exemplary zeal, prudence and bravery, I took occasion on a late signal instance of it to express the high sense I entertained of their merit, and to assure him that it should not fail of being properly noticed. I was induced to give this assurance, from a conviction, that it is the wish of Congress to give every encouragement to merit, and that they would chearfully embrace so favorable an opportunity of manifesting this disposition. I had it in contemplation at the time, in case no other method, more eligible, could be adopted to make him an offer of a place in my

family. I have consulted the Committee of Congress upon the Subject, and we were mutually of opinion, that the giving Capt. Lee the command of two troops of Horse on the proposed establishment, with the Rank of Major, to act as an independant partisan Corps, would be a mode of rewarding him very advantageous to the Service. Capt. Lees genius peculiarly adapts him to a command of this nature—and it will be most agreeable to him, of any station, in which he could be placed.
I beg leave to recommend this measure to Congress and shall be obliged by their decision as speedily as may be convenient. The Campaign is fast approaching, and there will probably be very little time to raise and prepare the Corps for it. It is a part of the plan to give Mr Lindsay the command of the second Troop, and to make Mr Peyton Capt. Lieutenant of the first. I am with the highest Esteem and Respect Sir Your most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 3 April 1778
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Fish Kill [N.Y.] 3d April 1778.

I had the Honor to address you a few days since by General Knox; in which I informed your Excellency of the deranged State of this department. Since that I have received your favors of the 25th and 27th ultimo. The necessary orders are given at the Ferries, to the drivers of Catle and Stores for the Grand Army, to Cross the Deleware at East Town. And your orders respecting the recruits of the Corps from the Eastern States, in your Army, will be Strickly attended to. A spy that left Newyork the 26th ultimo, Sent in by Governor Clinton informed me, that the reinforcement Sent to General Howe from New-york Consisted of two Brittish and Two Tory regiments. That before the orders for this reinforcement, the Enemy in Newyork were preparing for an

Expedition up the North river; and had Framed & embarked Ten Block Houses to Secure their camp, or to take post on the river. But that the call for Succors from New-york, had delayed the opperation for a Fortnight, when He was to join them. what credit is to be given to his relation depends on the Governor’s knowledge of him; which I expect to be advised of to day. If they are in Force, this is the most eligible Season for the enemy to keep open the Navigation of the river. your orders to get the works in a Condition to resist a Sudden insult of the Enemy, is carrying into execution with our utmost exertion. But the Stores at Fish Kill greatly embarass me; Some of them will always be wanted. And such is the State of the Public Catle and Forage, that I shall meet with the utmost difficulty in removing those Stores to a place of Safety; or to bring such as may be wanted from it. The constant passing & repassing of Teams with Stores for the Army, and private purposes on the roads in this neighbour hood, and the great number of Horses brought in last Atumn by the Connecticut Militia have consumed so much of the Forage that its extreamly difficult to procure forage on any Terms. This is greatly increased by the want of money, in the Quarter master and Forage department In Short Sir, there are So many Debts due from the Public of So long standing in almost every department, Especially those I have mentiond that the Continent is in bad Credit, which great embarass the Public Service. The Strength of General Parsons Brigade by the last return fit for duty, is but 402, the rest are unfit and 336 on Forlough, the reason assigned for this extraordinary number being out, is their Having been lately out of the small Pox. Col. Putnam’s regiment arrived here the 31st Ultimo, it is about 300 Strong. The regiment of Col. Nixon is below at Harrisons purchase; but it must be ordered up; Col. Dubois’s is much mutilated by the Storm of the Forts; and the most of them in the small Pox. This is the True State of my stength; which is painful to relate, to your Excellency, already too much burdened with momentary concerns; but Necessisty obliges me to do it, in my own Justification, should any misfortune Happen to the Post. To add to the Catalogue of embarassments, the Small Pox is general in this Quarter that I fear the Militia of Connecticut will come to my assistance, with great reluctance if they come at all. But it is my duty & inclination to make the best of those difficulties. As I write this in extreme haste, I beg your Excellency to View it with a Candid Eye. I have the Honor to be, Your Humble Servant.


Title: From George Washington to James Mease, 3 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Mease, James

Sir
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 3d April 1778

The officer who will deliver you this is sent by Colo. Grayson for the purpose of getting cloaths for his Regiment—by him you will recieve a Copy of a Genl order, in which my desire of furnishing all those Corps not appertaining to any particular State is expressed. you will readily conceive the justice of this, when you consider that the Troops from particular States are, or shortly will be provided with every necessary by them—when, the Sixteen Regts & others in the same situation, must rely solely on the Continental stock. I have therefore to request that you will pay particular attention to supplying these, and for your government in the matter refer you to the Genl order—on the subject. Yrs &c.

G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Col. Israel Shreve, 3 April 1778 [letter not found]
From: Shreve, Israel
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Col. Israel Shreve, 3 April 1778. On 6 April, GW wrote Shreve, “I am favd with yours of the 3d instant.”


Title: General Orders, 4 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge saturday April 4th 1778.
Plymouth—Plympton Pembroke.

The Brigade Commissaries are to make an exact return of the horns delivered into the Quarter Master General agreeable to the orders of 8th of January last.
The Brigadier General of the day is to visit the Prisoners in the Provost during his tour of duty and to inquire into the manner of their treatment which he is to report with the number and kind of them and length of confinement when he gives in the General report of the Guards & occurrences.
This is to be considered as a standing order and to be punctually executed.


Title: From George Washington to Cambray-Digny, 4 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Cambray-Digny, Louis-Antoine-Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de

Sir.
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 4th April 1778.

I have received your letter of the 27th Feby informing me of your having letters from Doctor Franklin, and that you are desirous of serving in the Continental Army—it will save you unnecessary traveling and expences to apprise you that Congress alone can place you there, and consequently that your personal application to them, is the first step to be taken by you in prosecuting this business—if they should determine in your favor, it will give me pleasure to render your Situation in the Army as agreeable as possible. I am Sir Your most obedient and most humble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for Prisoner Exchange, 4 April 1778
From: Commissioners for Prisoner Exchange
To: Washington, George

Camp Valley forge April 4th 1778

We, the Commissioners appointed by Your Excellency, “to confer, determine and agree upon a Treaty and Convention, for the exchange of Prisoners of War, and for all matters whatsoever, which may be properly contained therein” beg leave to report.
That in pursuance of Your Excellency’s orders, on the 31st day of March, we met at German Town, the Comissioners appointed by General Sir William Howe, for the purposes as expressed in their commission, “of taking into consideration all past transactions, relative to the exchange of prisoners, to adjust the differences, that have so long subsisted in regard to them, to remove all difficulties that may arise, in carrying into execution a general exchange of prisoners, with both parties at this time, and finally to establish a regular and explicit cartel, for the future.”
We produced our respective powers and interchanged copies for further examination; after which a proposition was made to us, to take up the business of our meeting, in the form of a general Cartel, and to make the discussion of past transactions a secondary object; in doing which, it was to be understood, that nothing was to be final or obligatory, till the whole Treaty should be concluded. To this we readily agreed, as the mode appeared eligible in itself, and consonant with the intention of our commission. These preliminaries being adjusted, a paper was submitted to our consideration, containing a number of articles, relative to the subject of our negociation, which we promised to peruse and deliver our sentiments concerning.
General Howe’s commissioners proposed to adjourn ’till the next day, and expressed a desire of returning that evening to Philadelphia, to which we did not then think proper to object.
Having met the next morning, we, in a cursory manner, pointed out some imperfections in General Howe’s commission: An essential one was, that it contained no recital of the authority, by which he acted; whereas your Excellency’s commission expressly specifies, that it is “in virtue of full powers to you delegated.” His commissioners promised to communicate our objections, and receive his further instructions.
We proceeded, in the mean time, to a comparison of ideas on the paper abovementioned, and made rough minutes of the result; agreeing, that whatever might be adopted should only be considered, as a

concurrence in some general principles, which were to be modified, explained, enlarged and applied, as should be afterwards determined.
It was then proposed to digest what had been done into a more regular and explicit form, and to prepare any new propositions which might occur; but as this would necessarily require time, it was agreed to defer our next interview, to Friday the 3d of April.
The Commissioners, from General Howe, then informed us, that it was expected by him, the Commissioners on both sides were always to retire, after the business of the day, within their respective lines, and that the neutrality of German Town was only to continue, during the time of actual negotiation; as on account of the proximity of that place to Philadelphia many inconveniences might attend our constant residence there. This proposal was equally unexpected and surprising: We conceived it to be contrary to the tenor of the correspondence communicated to us, which had passed between your Excellency and General Howe for the appointment of a place of Treaty. It could not but produce much unnecessary delay in the negociation the distance between your camp and German Town being more than seventeen Miles and tended to impose a new and burthensome condition on us by obliging us to perform a journey of twice that distance every day. In point of propriety and for the dispatch of business, we thought it necessary, the commissioners should remain constantly together. These motives and an apprehension, that something might be implied in the objection, unfavourable to our personal honor, determined us to suspend the negociation ’till we had reported to Your Excellency the terms required and received your directions in consequence. We declared our resolution and reasons to General Howe’s commissioners and have returned to camp accordingly.

Willm Grayson
Rob: H: Harrison
Alex. Hamilton
Elias Boudinot


Title: From George Washington to Denis-Nicolas Cottineau de Kerloguen, 4 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Cottineau de Kerloguen, Denis-Nicolas

Sir.
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 4th April 1778.

I have received your obliging Letter of the 26th Feby with the Inventory of yr Cargo and congratulate you upon your safe Arrival in America—the delay of Your Sales incident to the compliment which you were so polite as to pay me, has probably been much greater than you were aware of, and I should not be surprised if in the mean time from an idea of your letters having miscarried, you should have been induced to break bulk, and Dispose of your Cargo—however in case your good intentions shd have led you to persevere in your first resolution

’till now, and that you may not be a loser by them, I have transmitted to Congress a Copy of your Invoice, the Committee of foreign Affairs will probably give orders for the purchase of the principal part of your Cargo.
I shall be very happy to have it in my power to render you any Services during your Stay in America, and to prove to you how sensible I am of the consideration which you have been pleased to shew me—that your Success may equal your expectation is the wish of Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General John Lacey, Jr., 4 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Lacey, John Jr.

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 4th April 1778

Commissioners from me are to meet others from General Howe on Monday next at Newtown to settle a Cartel for a general Exchange of prisoners. During the sitting of the Commissioners none of our parties are to enter the Town, and you are therefore to give immediate notice to all the Officers under your command to pay strict obedience to this order. The British Commissioners will probably come part of the way on sunday, they will be attended by an escort of horse and care must be taken not to offer the least insult to their Flag. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. If you fall in with any of the continental parties communicate the above to them.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 4 April 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 4th April 1778

I have now the honor to acknowledge your several letters of the 21st 29th and 30th ulto with their inclosures, which have been duly received.
It gives me pain to observe, they appear to contain several implications by which my sensibility is not a little wounded.
I find myself extremely embarrassed by the steps I had taken towards an Exchange of prisoners and the formation of a general Cartel, making more ample provision for their future accommodation, and relief. The views of Congress seem to be very different from what I supposed them, when I entered into my late engagements with General Howe—Their Resolution of the 30th ulto pointedly requiring a strict adherence to all former ones upon the subject will, in all probability render them impracticable—I considered some of their Resolutions as dictated on the principle of retaliation, and did not imagine the terms they contained would be insisted upon in negociating an agreement calculated to remedy the evils which occasioned them. In most respects they might be substantially complied with, but there are some points to which an exact conformity must of necessity destroy the Idea of a Cartel.

One is, the obliging the Enemy to pay Gold and Silver on equal terms for continental Currency, estimating the Articles supplied them at their actual prices with us—as seems to be the design of the Resolve of the 19th December.
Another is, that subjecting the inhabitants of these States, taken in Arms against them to trial & punishment agreeable to the Resolve of the 30th of the same month.
I am well aware that appearances ought to be upheld; and that we should avoid as much as possible recognizing by any public Act, the depreciation of our currency; but I conceive this end would be answered as far as might be necessary, by stipulating that all money payments should be made in Gold and Silver, being the common Medium of Commerce among Nations, at the Rate of 4/6 for a spanish milled dollar &ca by fixing the price of Rations on an equitable Scale, relatively to our respective circumstances, and providing for the payment of what we may owe, by sending in provision and selling it at their market. The Rates of Money and the prices of provisions and other Commodities differ every where; and in treaties of a similar nature between any two States, it is requisite for mutual convenience, to ascertain some common Ratio for both the value of Money in payments and for the Rates of those Articles on which they may arise.
It was determined on mature consideration not to conclude any thing expressly that should contradict the Resolution of the 30th Decemr but at the same time, if it is designed to be the rule of practice, it is easy to perceive it would at once overturn any Cartel that could be formed. Genl Howe would never consent to observe it on his part, if such a practice were to exist on ours. Though the law ought not to be contravened by an express article admitting the exchangeability of such persons, yet if it is not suffered to sleep, it is in vain to expect the operations of it will be acquiesced in by the Enemy.
The measures I have taken must evince that it is my determination to pay the fullest attention to the interests of Citizens and to the rights of General Lee in the treaty; and I think it but justice to the Gentlemen appointed to negociate it, to declare that I know them to be so fully impressed with the importance of both those objects as to make them chearfully observant of the injunctions of Congress—so far as not to conclude any agreement, of which, the exchange of General Lee and the alternative respecting Citizens are not essential parts. These points had been early determined on.
It is with no small concern that I have been obliged to trouble Congress upon the subjects of this letter, and should they appear to them in the same light they do to me, and they should think proper to remove the obstacles which now oppose the Business in hand. I must request

they will be pleased to communicate their determination as expeditiously as possible, that the Commissioners may govern themselves accordingly and either proceed to forming a Cartel or put an end to the negociation. Before the Resolves of the 30th came to hand they had met and been in treaty two days with a prospect of a favorable accommodation.
I am happy to inform Congress, that General Lee will be out on parole tomorrow, in place of General Prescot; and I have every reason to expect, if the negociation can be continued upon admissible terms, that his Exchange will immediately follow the releasement of Colo. Campbell and the Hessian Feild Officers. It is agreed that Lt Colo. Allen shall be exchanged for Lt Colo. Campbell.
The importunate applications of Colo. Lee and Majr Swazey to leave the Service oblige me to lay the matter before Congress. Colo. Lees letter upon the subject was transmitted me the 25th of January, but hoping he might change his mind I deferred writing to Congress upon his request. He has renewed it again in urgent terms thro’ General Heath, and I have only to observe that it is a painful circumstance to see Officers of their merit leaving the Service. It is the case every day—I shall be obliged by Congress informing me of the dates of the Resignations of the Colonels in the Virginia line. I have only received the date of Colo. Lewis’s.
Inclosed is a letter from Capt. Cottineau of the Ship Ferdinand with an Invoice of her Cargo. The letter only came to hand yesterday, and as it is of an old date it is highly probable that the Goods are sold. If they are not, from the Captains desire to give the public a preference in the Sale, Congress will have an opportunity of directing them to be purchased. Most of them would be proper for the Army. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 4 April 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
York Town [Pa.] 4th April 1778

Since my last of the 30th Ulto ⅌ Barry I had the honour of receiving & presenting to Congress Your Excellency’s favour of the 29th of that Month which having been taken under consideration the Inclosed Act was this day Resolved—for empowring Your Excellency when you shall judge it necessary to call on the States of Maryland Pennsylvania & New Jersey for Five Thousand Militia Men, Armed & accoutred. I have the honour to be With great Esteem & Respect Sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient & Most humble servant

Henry Laurens, President of Congress.

P.S. Evening 9 oClock Monsr de Francy this moment delivered me Your Excellency’s favour of the 1st Inst. which shall be presented to Congress on Monday—mean time permit me Sir to intimate, that I had backed the Report of Your Excellency’s Letter of the 27th ffebruary with an information to Congress that, one Gentleman of the late Committee on the Ticonderoga Enquiry had retired, & that it was impracticable for me to give that attention which was due to an affair of such importance—a new Committee was immediately appointed, these Gentlemen some 8 or 10 days ago offered a Report; when Mister Duer interposed arguments which induced the House to postpone the Consideration, for two days—I have taken the liberty to name that Gentleman because his declared motives for delay were coupled with assurances of particular considerations respecting General Schuyler—this very Morning I called on Mister Duer & reminded him of his engagements, urging the painful situation in which his friend & the other General Officers remained—he replied “I will soon bring on that business” Your Excellency’s present Letter will prove a further incitement. I have very long felt, for the Gentlemen who are subjects of the Enquiry & although it was with extreme reluctance I obeyed the order of Congress, to be of the original Committee, after having urged such reasons for exemption as appeared to me very forcible—yet I cannot charge my self with delinquincy at any stage in the course of our proceedings. to account for the uncouth & entangled state of this Enquiry, would not be half so difficult as it might be impertinent to the proper

line of my correspondence, from this consideration I shall only add, that I trust Your Excellency’s present application will have that weight which is justly due.

H.L.