Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 9 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                            Sir
                            Orange Town April 9th 1783

                        I have the honor to enclose to you a Copy of the propositions made by Messrs Duer & Parker for
                            advancing 3 Months pay to the Army previous to the dissolution of it—and I do it with the more satisfaction because I
                            cannot but hope from their Letter as well as the conversations I have held with those Gentlemen that the Measure will now
                            become practicable, and because I know that the most disagreeable consequences may be apprehended unless the proposed
                            expedient shall be adopted, or some other resource opened which will enable you to furnish at least to the amount of three
                            months Pay before the Troops shall be disbanded.
                        Acquainted as you are, with the state of Public Affairs, the present temper of the Troops, & my
                            sentiments of the importance of this subject, it is unnecessary for me to add any thing farther on it—especially as Mr
                            Parker (who will be the bearer of this Letter) will be able personally to explain his & my ideas more fully than can be
                            done in writing. I have the honor to be


Title: From George Washington to John Rutledge, 9 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Rutledge, John

                            Gentlemen
                            Head Quarters 9th April 1783

                        Your Letter for Sir Guy Carleton came in season to take a very good Opportunity for its Conveyance, and is by
                            this Time in N.York. I have the Honor to be &c.


Title: General Orders, 10 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Thursday April 10th 1783
                            Parole Kingsclear
                            Countersigns Lancaster Maryland

                        For the day tomorrow Major Lansdale
                        B. Qr M. 2d Massa. Brigade
                        For duty the 2d York Regiment.


Title: To George Washington from Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 10 April 1783
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                                Monsieur.
                                A Philadelphie le l0. Avril 1783.

                            Je dois informer Votre Excellence que je viens de recevoir des instructions du Ministre qui en
                                consequence de la paix portent que les detachemens du corps François actuellement ici seront renvoyés en France sans
                                delai. Je vais prendre des mesures pour cette evacuation en cas que Vous ne trouviés aucune cause de la differer.
                                J’attend incessament M. le Duc de Lauzun qui donnera les ordres nécéssaires à cet egard et sans la presence de qui il
                                ne peut être pris d’arrangemens definitifs. J’ai l’honneur d’être avec un respectueux et inviolable attachement, Monsieur, de Votre Excellence le
                                très humble et très obeissant serviteur

                                le che. de la luzerne

                        Translation
                            Sir,Philada 10th Apl 83I have to inform your Excellency that I have just reced instructions from the Minister—that in consequence
                                of the Peace the French Troops actually here are to be sent to France without delay. If you see no cause to defer it I
                                shall accordingly take immediate measures for their departure—I impatiently wait the arrival of the Duke de Lauzun to
                                give the necessary orders—as no definitive arrangements can be made in his absence. I have the honor to be &c.

                                 Chev. de la luzerne


Title: To George Washington from Le Grand, 10 April 1783
From: Le Grand
To: Washington, George

                            May it please your Excellency
                            Portsmouth New-Hampshire’s State April the 10th 1783.

                        That I take the liberty of tendering to you herein an Homage which my heart owns to your private qualities as
                            well as to your public character, and is agreeably compelled to express to your Excellency the high Sense of Joy and
                            pleasure afforded by an happy Peace to the United States of America, through the means of your eminent talents, during the
                            time of your Generalship, and particularly felt by your addresser.
                        The Honor which you have been pleased to confer upon me, when I was in Morristown, a few years ago, and your
                            innate propensity to do good offices, induce me to take the liberty of asking a favor to Your Excellency.
                        I am now making an application to Monsieur Le Cher de La Luzerne for an Employment in one of the Consulships
                            that, by the event of Peace are to be established in New-York and Charlestown, for the obtaining of which Permit me, Sir, to
                            intreat your Recommendation to that Minister. Some time ago I had possessed a like office in the Consulship General of
                            france in Boston, But I was obliged to leave it, in order to go and Settle Some Interrests in france, and the Same has
                            been occupied during my absence. Although I have the honor to be known to the french Minister, yet I am Confident that
                            Your Excellency’s Recommendation will certainly engage him to prefer me to my Competitors.
                        By Such a favor I shall be led to acknowledge with great a Sensibility the important Service—bestowed upon me
                            by your Excellency, for which my Gratitude shall never cease. I have the honor to be with the most distinguished
                            Sentiments, of your Excellency, The most humble and most obd. Servant

                             Le Grand


Title: General Orders, 11 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Friday April 11th 1783
                            Parole Nova Scotia
                            Countersigns Oxford, Parnassus

                        For the day tomorrow Major Pope
                        B.Q.M. Jersey Brigade
                        For duty 1st Massachusetts regiment.


Title: From George Washington to John Baker, 11 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Baker, John

                            Sir,
                            Newburgh April 11th 1783

                        I shall be obliged to you for some of the Plaister of Paris, or that white powder with which you take (in
                            wax) the Model of the Mouth for your false teeth—and directions how to mix, & make use of it—When you have done
                            this, I can then give you such a Model as will enable you to furnish me with what I want.
                        Mr Pierce, Pay master Genl who is the bearer of this, & will return immediately back to Camp, will
                            take particular care of what you give him. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt Sert

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Digby, 11 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Digby, Robert

                            Sir
                            H. Qrs Apl 11. 1783

                        Captain Hurlbutt—an Officer of this Army who was dangerously wounded about two Years Since, wishing to Return
                            to his home and being Still unable to bear the fatigue of a conveyance by Land—I have to Request the favor of your
                            Excellencys Passport fir a small Vessell to convey him by Water to New London—Captain Hurlbutt will be accompanied only by
                            another Gentleman & the small number of Persons necessary to navigate the Vessell. I have the honor to be.


Title: General Orders, 12 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Saturday April 12th 1783
                            Parole Queenborough.
                            Countersigns Radnor Shaftsbury

                        For the day tomorrow Colonel Vanscaick
                        B. Q. M. York Brigade
                        For duty the Hampshire Battalion.
                        Application is to be made to the Assistant Clother Genl for another distribution of Shirts—also Returns to be
                            given in to him of the men who have not received Hatts for the last year.


Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 12 April 1783
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Washington, George

                            My dear Sir,
                            Philadelphia 12th April 1783

                        You can only judge from your own feelings on this occasion, with what peculiar joy I congratulate your
                            Excellency and the Army on a constitutional cessation of hostilities by the public Act of Congress, I have the honor to
                            enclose. Thus far we may truly say, that we have passed thro’ the wilderness by a series of Miracles, which nothing short
                            of the own ruling Providence of God could ever have wrought.
                        I most heartily reciprocate your Excellency’s good wishes on this occasion, and am much obliged by your very
                            polite letter of the 30th Ultimo.
                        By a vessel that arrived yesterday from France we received the official copies of our accession to the
                            cessation of hostilities; but altho’ this vessel sailed on the 4th of March our latest advices were of the 23d of January.
                            We are just informed that there is a Packet in the River with public dispatches in 36 days from France—If any thing should
                            turn up worthy of notice I will add it to this letter.
                        Mrs Boudinot and Miss Susan unite with me in the most affectionate compliments to Mrs Washington and your
                            Excellency, and are contemplating with great pleasure the prospect of a joyous interview on your return to your long
                            wished for retreat. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect & Esteem Your Excellencys Most Obedt
                            & most Hble Servt

                            Elias Boudinot


Title: From George Washington to Ebenezer Huntington, 12 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Ebenezer

                             12 April 1783

                        In Consequence of a Recommendation from the Governor & Council of the State of Connecticut—Permission
                            is hereby granted to Miss Marian Moore to proceed by the port of Dobbs Ferry to N. York, to visit her parents in that
                            City. Lieut. Colo. Huntington is permitted to attend Miss Moore, and to return immediately. Given at Head Quarters in
                            Newburgh 12th April 1783.


Title: To George Washington from Robert R. Livingston, 12 April 1783
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Philadelphia 12th Apl 1783

                        I congratulate your Excellency most sincerely upon the cessation of hostilities which you will learn from the
                            enclosed proclamation—You have doubtless heard directly from Genl Carleton on this subject, so that it will not be
                            necessary to trouble you with the substance of his letter to me—Congress will this day on my report take into
                            consideration the propriety of discharging the prisoners & the manner in which it is to be
                            done. Carleton presses hard in his letter to me for the execution of the 5 of the preliminary articles,
                            I have replied that it can not be executed till the treaty is ratifid, & indeavoured to convince him that the
                            recommendation of Congress will be recd with much more respect when the persons who compose our Legislatures shall have
                            returned to their respective homes & the asperities occasioned by the war shall be a little worn down by the
                            enjoyment of peace—It is unfortunate that no time has been fixed by our treaty for the evacuation of New York—It were to
                            be wished that Carletons intention on this head could be sounded by yr Excellency. I have the honor to be Dr Sir with
                            great esteem & respect Your Most obt Hum: Servt

                            R.R. Livingston


Title: From George Washington to Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von] Steuben, 12 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von],Knox, Henry

                            Gentlemen
                            Head Quarters April 12th 1783

                        Taking it for granted the principle is generally understood, that an Officer holding a Commission in the Line
                            of the Army of a superior grade, to that he possesses in a particular Corps, is to roll on all general duties agreeably to
                            his Commission in the Army, and to be considered in the Line of the State to which he belongs, according to the rank he
                            holds in Corps of that State; the following questions will then arise in the case of Majr Sumner, who is also a Captain in
                            the 3d Masstts Regt—supposing him to be put on the Roster with the Majors of the Line, and take his tour as such in all
                            general details for Detachment, Courts Martial, Officer of the Day &c., what specific Duties shall he perform, at
                            the same time, as Captain in the Massachusetts Line? for example, ought he to be detailed as Captain of Police in the
                            Brigade to which he belongs, in the present mode of doing Duty, when the Officer of Police reports to the Field Officer of
                            the Day, or not? How are the different Duties, to which an Officer in that predicament is subjected, to be reconciled? or
                            when those Duties shall interfere, which is to supercede the other?
                        I desire your opinions collectively in writing on these points of Service, as soon as conveniently may be, and
                            am Gentlemen Your Most Obedient Servant

                            Go: Washington

                            Answer to 1st questn
                            Major Sumner as Captain in the Massachusetts Line must perform all duties in the line incident to his
                                rank.
                            Major Sumner must report to the field Officer of the day, even if he is Junior to himself—The Adjutant
                                Generals Roster is to be obeyed before any Other.

                            Steuben Maj: Genl
                            H. Knox M. General
                            J. Huntington B.G.


Title: To George Washington from Robert H. Kirkwood, Jr., 13 April 1783
From: Kirkwood, Robert H., Jr.
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            New Castle April 13th 1783

                        agreable to a resolve of the Honourable the Congress dated the twenty second of march last the Officers of
                            the Delaware Battalion have unanimously agreed to recieve the Commutation in Lieu of the half pay for life. and take this
                            oppertunity of signifying the same to your Excellency. I am with Due respect your Excellencys Humble Servt

                            Robert Kirkwood
                            Capt. Commanding D.B.


Title: From George Washington to The States, 14 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: The States

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters April 14th 1783

                        Previous to the disbanding the Army, an event, which it is to be wished, may take place with as much ease and
                            satisfaction as circumstances will admit, Congress have directed that a compleat settlement & liquidation of all
                            their Accounts shall be made, To effect this the Pay Master Genl is arrived, with full Instructions to enter immediately
                            upon the settlement, and to compleat it as soon as possible, In performing this duty, he informs me that recourse must be
                            had to the several States, for their Accounts (if they have any) against their respective Lines, This requisition probably
                            may have been, or will be, made by Mr Morris, but as I consider it of the utmost Importance both for the ease &
                            quiet of the Army, as well as in point Oconomy to the Public, that this business should be effected with all the dispatch
                            that it is possible to give it, I have procured from the Pay Master Genl, the inclosed minutes of what he judges necessary
                            to obtain from the States, as part of the ground of his settlement; which I take the liberty to transmit to your
                            Excellency, with my most earnest request, that you will be pleased to give directions that the earliest attention may be
                            given to forward, without the least delay, to Mr Pierce, the Pay Master Genl, whatever Information, Accounts or papers,
                            shall on examination of his Minutes, be found necessary, together with any other papers or documents which may be thought
                            proper from your State to effect the settlement purposed.
                        I have taken this liberty the rather, as it is judged, that, on supposition of the utmost dispatch in the
                            States, the greatest delay compleating this very important settlement, will most probably arise from the time necessary to
                            obtain their accounts. I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 14 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters 14th April 1783

                        Impressed with the same Ideas as are mentioned in your Excellency’s Letter of Yesterday, I have this day
                            previous to the receipt of yours transmitted to Brigr Genl McLean, commandg in the District of Niagara, Copies of several
                            late Communications from Sir Guy Carleton—One of the Proclamations of the King of G. Britain for Cessation of Hostilities,
                            and a New York Newspaper, containg the Articles of general Pacification between all the Belligerent powers.
                        These Dispatches are put under Cover to Colo. Willet, with my Desire to him, that they should be sent, with
                            an Indian Runner, by the nearest Route, to Niagara—These papers, I hope, will answer the purposes mentioned by your
                            Excellency, without the Delay of sendg to Sir Guy Carleton.
                        The Disasters which are said to have happened to the Wyoming Settlement are mentioned to me by Report only—I
                            hope it is without foundation. I have the Honor to be With the highest Regard Dear Sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and
                            humble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 14 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                            Dr Sir
                            Head Quarters 14th April 1783

                        The inclosed is Copy of a Letter which I have received by Yesterdays post.
                        I have to request the favor of your Sentiments on the Subject mentioned—and that you will give them to
                            me as soon & as full as possible.
                        You will please also to communicate the Letter to Genl Huntington, & obtain his Thoughts, which you
                            will be so good as to forward with your own. I am Dr Sir Your most Obedient humble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Allen Maclean, 14 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Maclean, Allen

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Newburgh 14th April 1783

                        I have the Honor to inform you that on the 3d of April I received from Sir Guy Carleton the enclosed Extract
                            of a Letter from General Haldimand—No. 1—On the 8th a proclamation from the King of Great Britain was sent me by Sir
                            Guy—No. 2—And on the 10th a Letter, of which No. 3 is a Copy, was received, requesting Passports for Two Gentlemen bearing
                            Dispatches from the British Commander in Chief to General Haldimand, announcing the satisfaction of the preliminary
                            Articles of a general Peace, & a Cessasion of Hostilities. A Passport was immediately granted—and the Gentlemen
                            are on their Way to Canada.
                        The Distance to General Haldimand being great, & his Situation so wide from your Post, that great
                            Time must elapse before you can receive his Dispatches; I have taken the Liberty to make this Communication to you by the
                            directest Route in my power—in confident hope, that, altho you may not deem this Information Official, yet that your Benevolence will cause it to be regarded with such Attention, that, if it does not
                            produce a total Cessation of Hostilities within your Command—yet, it may at least, prevent any unnecessary &
                            wanton Acts of Cruelty which may have been meditated by the Indians on the Frontiers; and which, in their Consequences,
                            may prove as disagreeable to them as distressing to the Inhabitants of the United States. I have the Honor to be Sir Your
                            most Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Matthias Ogden, 14 April 1783
From: Ogden, Matthias
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Elizth Town 14th April 1783

                        I have had the honor to recieve your Excellencys permission, to go to France; I have written to the President
                            of Congress, & flatter myself that I shall not find difficulty in obtaining their approbation.
                        Altho my buisness will be mercantile yet I shall travel in Regimentals; an honorable certificate from your
                            Excellency, will therefore be a far greater benefit to me, than any other letter recommendatory which can possibly be
                            obtained.
                        If from my military character, your Excellency judges I merit this honor, I am certain I shall recieve it,
                            and consider my time well spent to have deserved it. Should your Excellency honor me with any commands, I shall execute
                            them with the greatest care & punctuality. I am with the greatest respect Your Excellencys most obedt humble
                            servant

                            M. Ogden


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to Timothy Pickering, 14 April 1783
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters. 14th Apl 1783

                        The Commandr in Chief desires that you will procure immediately two hundred & fifty Boards—agreeable
                            to an Estimate handed to you by Colo. Govion. I am Sir Your most Obed.

                            J. Trumbull Junr Secty


Title: From George Washington to Marinus Willett, 14 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Willett, Marinus

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Newburg April 14. 1783

                        Official accounts of the happy conclusion of a Peace, have been transmitted by Sir Guy Carleton to General
                            Haldimand at Quebec by two Officers who passed thro’ this place a few days since: but as a very considerable time must
                            elapse before these Gentlemen can arrive at Quebec, and the news be communicated from thence to the British Posts in the
                            upper Country, and as humanity dictates that not a moment should be lost in endeavouring to prevent any further incursions
                            of the Indians (who, it is said, have already struck at Wyoming) I have thought it proper to write to General McLean
                            commanding the British Force in that Quarter, and to inclose to him the King of Great Britains Proclamation for the
                            Cessation of Hostilities; and this Letter I must desire you to forward to him at Niagara by some trusty Indian runner with
                            all possible expedition—the expence attending this business shall be repaid on your informing me of it.
                        You will at the same time give orders to the Troops & Indians under your Command, to forbear all Acts
                            of Hostility against the Troops of his Brittannic Majesty—other than for their own immediate defence. I am Sir Your very
                            humble and Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. The Dispatch is left under a flying Seal, that you may see the News paper which is inclosed—after
                                reading you will please to return the paper, Seal & send forward. Your

                            J. Trumbull Jr


Title: General Orders, 15 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Tuesday April 15th 1783
                            Parole Amsterdam.
                            Countersigns Boston-- Charlestown

                        For the day tomorrow Major Trescot
                        B.Q. Mr 3d Massa. Brigade
                        For duty tomorrow 3d Massachusetts regiment.
                        Ensign Herring of the 1st Newyork regiment was tried by the General Courtmartial of which Colonel H. Jackson
                            is president, "for Embezling or misapplying part of the sum or the value thereof due Captn Bleekers Company for the month
                            of January last, and acquitted.
                        The General approves Ensign Herrings acquittal—He is released from his Arrest.
                        Jeremiah Allen a Drummer of the 8th Massachusetts regiment was tried by the same General Courtmartial for
                            stealing a number of shirts & blanketts out of the public store at Newburgh on the night of the 24th of march last,
                            convicted and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his naked breech, to be inflicted at four different
                            periods—Twenty five at each period—Fifty in front of the 2d, twenty five in front of the 1st and the remaining twenty five
                            in front of the 3d Massachusetts Brigades.
                        The General approves the sentence and directs it to be carried into execution.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Digby, 15 April 1783
From: Digby, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Lion off New York 15th April 1783

                        As Captain Hurlbert has not called on me for the Pass for New London your Excellency requested, or any Body
                            in his Behalf, I enclose it to your excellency and should Captain Hurlbert call in the mean time I will give him another.
                            I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most obedient humble Servant

                            Robt Digby


Title: To George Washington from Jean Halbach, 15 April 1783
From: Halbach, Jean
To: Washington, George

                                Monseigneur!
                                Remscheid; pres de Cologne le 15e. avril 1783

                            Nous prennons la Liberté de Communiquer par celle-ci à vôtre Excellence, que par rapport à la Paix
                                conclut heureusement entre les treize Provinces Unies et L’Angleterre, qu’il a un de nos Compagnons entierement
                                intentionné de faire le Voyage en quelques Semaines/: avec recommandation de deux Ambassadeurs de treize Provinces
                                combinnés:/: par Amsterdam pour Philadelphie, puisque notre maison tient depuis Septante ans les plus grandes et
                                meilleure Fabriques de toute sorte des Armes ici contre specifiez dont nous fournissons les Armées Prussienne et
                                Autrichienne Comme également plusieurs autres Armeés & Flottes Royales et en tems de Guerre même L’Angleterre.
                                quoiqu’il a de pareilles Fabriques en ce dit Royaume, mais a l’egarde de la qualité et du plus bas ou moindre prix nos
                                Armes ont veritablement la préference partout a quel sujet nous avons aussi de tems en tems des fournissements
                                    pour toutes les Départements des Guerres presque en Europe; Ce pourquoi nous prennons la
                                Liberté de Supplier vôtre Excellence d’avoir la Graçe de nous faire reserver les Ordres du Congrés
                                jusqu’à L’arrivement de notre Compagnon, que aurra L’honneur de vous presenter alors les
                                échantillons de toute Sorte des Armes de nos Fabriques ne doutant pas que les Treize Provinçes unies en aurront besoin
                                pour leurs Armees & Flottes, que nous ne manquerons de fournir toujours de toutes les Armes de la plus belle
                                qualité et au prix le plus équitables. Ainsi nous nous recommandons uniquement dans la Graçe de vôtre Excellence étant
                                assurés que nôtre maison obtiendra par la principalement les ordres des Etats combinnés, en attendant nous avons
                                L’honneur d’etre toujours avec la plus grande devotion. Monseigneur, Vos trés humbles & trés Obeissantes
                                Serviteurs
                            Jean & Gaspar Halbach & Fils
                        P.S. si la Ville de Philadelphie plaise à nôtre Campagnon, il se pourra bien que nous ÿ allons établer un maison.
                        Translation
                            We take the liberty to inform your Excellency that since a Peace is happily Established between the
                                thirteen United Provinces of England, one of our Company has determined to make a Voyage to America by way of
                                Amsterdam, having recommendations from your two Ambassadors.
                            Our house has for these seventy years had the largest and best manufactory of Arms (as specified herein)
                                we furnish the Russian and Austrian Armys & many other Royal Armys and fleets—and in time of War we furnish
                                even England altho’ she has manufactorys of her own—but with respect to the quality of the Arms & the
                                price—our Manufactory has the preference of all which causes us to have business from time to time from almost all the
                                War Departments of Europe—We therefore take the liberty to request your Excellencys Interest in procuring for us the
                                orders of Congress until our Partner arrives in America when he will present them with samples of the several sorts of
                                Arms made at our manufactory not doubting but the thirteen United Provinces will have occasion for some of them for
                                their Armies & Fleets—which we will always furnish of the best quality and at the lowest price.
                            We again solicit your Excellencys influence in our favor—assured that it will be sufficient to procure
                                for us the orders of the thirteen United Provinces—In the mean time we have the honor to be—with the greatest
                                devotion—My lord Your very humble and Obedient Servant

                                Dean & Gaspar Halbach and Son

                                P.S. If the City of Philada pleases our Partner we may perhaps establish House there.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 15 April 1783
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia April 15. 1783

                        There are two resolutions passed relative to the restoration of the British Prisoners and to making
                            arrangements for the surrender of the posts in the possession of the British troops, the first of which is to be
                            transacted by you in conjunction with the secretary of War—the latter by yourself alone. I will explain to you some doubts
                            which have arisen in Congress with regard to the true construction of the provisional treaty—which may be of use to you in
                            transacting the business abovementioned.
                        The sixth article declares that there shall be no future confiscations &c. after the ratification of the treaty in America; and the seventh article makes the surrender of
                            prisoners, evacuation of posts, cessation of hostilities &c. to depend on that event to wit—the ratification of the treaty in America. Now the doubt is whether the treaty means
                            the provisional treaty already concluded or the definitive treaty
                                to be concluded. The last construction is most agreeable to the letter of the provisional
                            articles—the former most agreeable to the usual practice of nations; for hostilities commonly cease on the ratification of
                            the preliminary treaty—There is a great diversity of Opinion in Congress—It will be in my opinion adviseable, at the same
                            time that we do not communicate our doubts to the British, to extract their sense of the matter from them.
                        This may be done by asking them at what periods they are willing to stipulate the surrender of posts, at the
                            same time that they are asked in what manner it will be most convenient to them to receive the prisoners.
                        If they postpone the evacuation of the different posts to the definitive treaty we shall then be justified in
                            doing the same with respect to prisoners. The question will then arise whether on principles of humanity œconomy and
                            liberality we ought not to restore the prisoners at all events without delay—Much may be said on both sides—I doubt the
                            expedience of a total restoration of prisoners ’till they are willing to fix the epochs at which they will take leave of
                            us—It will add considerably to their strength, and accidents though improbable may happen. I confess however I am not
                            clear in my opinion. I have the honor to be Yr Excellency’s Most Obed. Serv.

                            A. Hamilton

                            The provisional or preliminary treaty is ratified by us—for the greater caution.


Title: To George Washington from Robert R. Livingston, 15 April 1783
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Philadelphia, 15th April 1783.

                        Congress have been, & still are extremely divided about the propriety of ratifying the present
                            provisional Articles, & releasing their prisoners—The Articles are so drawn as to render them in many instances
                            equivocal, & they doubt whether they shall consider them as preliminary or definitive—For my own part, I think
                            them preliminary Articles, & that they should be ratified as such—As to the restitution of prisoners, tho’ I
                            should apprehend no danger from it, yet I could wish that previous to it, Carleton was sounded as to the time &
                            manner of the evacuation—I am not without hopes but that this course will be taken, & that the Communications will
                            pass thro’ Your Excellency—Perhaps some kind of composition may be made for the delivery of the prisoners, to which I
                            doubt whether they are in strictness entitled.
                        I enclose for your perusal, Digby’s & Carleton’s Letters with my answers, which you will find have some
                            allusion to the indelicacy of their first Letters which were printed, & were designed to draw
                            from them their sense of the Treaty on two doubtful points. I have the honor to be, Dear Sir With the sincerest respect
                            & esteem Your Excellency’s Most obedient humble servant

                            R.R. Livingston

                            P.S. Since writing the above Congress have agd to ratify the Articles & to concoct
                                measures for the release of prisoners. This business will pass thro’ yr Excellency tho’ I doubt
                                whether Majr Pierce will be able to carry the resolutions with him as he goes early tomorrow—I shd
                                wish to know any intelligence that you may have recd relative to the time of the proposed evacuation. R.R.L.

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                New York, April 6th 1783

                            A Packet from England arrived in this port last night, by which I have dispatches from Mr Townshend, one
                                of His Majesty’s principal Secretaries of State, communicating official intelligence that preliminary Articles of
                                peace with France & Spain were signed at Paris on the 20th January last, & that the ratifications have
                                been since exchanged at the same place.
                            The King, Sir, has been pleased, in consequence of these events, to order a Proclamation to be published,
                                declaring a cessation of Arms as well by Sea as by Land, and his Majesty’s pleasure signified, that I should cause the
                                same to be published in all places under my command, in order that his Majesty’s Subjects may pay immediate &
                                due obedience thereto and such proclamation I shall accordingly cause to be made on Tuesday next, the eighth
                                instant—In consequence thereof, and in conformity to the Articles of peace, all our Prisoners of War are to be set at
                                Liberty, and restored, with all convenient dispatch entertaining no doubt but that similar measures will be taken on
                                the part of the United States of America; In like manner, no doubt can be entertained but that Congress in conformity
                                to the 5th Article of the Provisional Treaty, will lose no time in earnestly recommending to the Legislatures of the
                                respective States, to provide for the restitution of confiscated Estates, & to reconsider & revise all
                                Laws of confiscation that they may be rendered perfectly consistent, not only with Justice & equity, but with
                                that spirit of conciliation, which on the return of the blessings of peace should universally prevail.
                            And I am farther to inform you, Sir, that an instrument of accession to the suspension of hostilities by
                                the states General of the United Provinces having been received in England, a cessation of arms with those states has
                                been there upon included in the proclamation.
                            Upon this great occasion, Sir, I am to offer my strongest assurances that during the short period of my
                                command here, I shall be ready & earnest to cultivate that spirit of perfect good will, which between the
                                United States of America & the King of Great Britain, and the Subjects & the Citizens of both
                                Countries, will, I trust, always remain. I am, with much consideration Sir, Your most obedient & most humble
                                servant

                                (Signed) Guy Carleton

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Lion, Off New York April 6th 1783

                            I have this moment received the inclosed Proclamation from His Majesty’s secretary of State, and shall
                                immediately dispatch one of the sloops of War to withdraw all my Cruisers upon this coast, & shall also
                                release all the Prisoners as quickly as I can dispose of them in the most convenient way to themselves. I am, Sir Your
                                very obedient humble servant

                                Robt Digby

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Philadelphia, 11th April 1783.

                            I received your letter of the 6th instant informing me of the Arrival of a Packet, by which You have
                                Official intelligence that the preliminary Articles of peace with France & Spain were signed at Paris on the
                                20th of January last, that the Ratifications have been since exchanged, and that his Britannic Majesty has Ordered a
                                cessation of Arms to be proclaimed as well by Sea as by land, & that you propose Agreeable to his Orders to
                                issue a similar Proclamation and to set at liberty your prisoners of War.
                            This interesting intelligence was Communicated to the United States in Congress, who tho’ they had yet
                                received no Official accounts Would immediately have made it the basis of Pacific measures, without entertaining
                                doubts of its Authenticity, or Yielding to suspicions which would tend to prolong the Calamities of war—But while
                                these measures were under Consideration, they Received from their Ministers Official advices of the Agreement between
                                them & the Court of Great Britain relative to a cessation of hostilities On which they have founded the
                                enclosed Proclamation—They have likewise Under Consideration measures for the discharge of their Prisoners, these
                                measures will be Carried into effect as soon as possible after they shall have been determined on.
                            It cannot be doubted, Sir, as you justly observe, that Congress will embrace the earliest opportunity to
                                perform the stipulations contained in the 5th as well as every other of the Provisional Articles immediately after the
                                same shall have been Ratified, in the mean while it must be obvious to your Excellency, that a recommendation to
                                restore to the Loyalists the Estates they have forfeited, will come with less weight before Legislatures composed of
                                men whose property is still withheld from them by the Continuance of his Britannic Majesty’s fleets & Armies
                                in this Country, than it will do, when peace & the full enjoyment of their Rights shall have worn down those
                                Asperities which have grown out of Eight years War. This reflection will I doubt not induce you to give every facility
                                in your power to the execution of the 7th Article of the Provisional Treaty, and to fix as early a day for the
                                evacuation of New York and its dependencies as may consist with your Orders.
                            I give the fullest Credit, Sir, to your Assurances that you are ready to cultivate the spirit of harmony
                                & good will between those subjects & Citizens of his Britannic majesty & these States, since I
                                find them warranted by the humanity which has Uniformly distinguished Your Command in America. But, Sir, time only,
                                with liberality in those that Govern in both Countries can entirely efface the Remembrance of what has passed
                                & produce that perfect good will which I sincerely concur with you in wishing to cultivate. I am, Sir, with
                                much Consideration Your Excellency’s Most obedient & most humble servant

                                Robt R. Livingston

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Philadelphia 12th April. 1783

                            I received your Letter enclosing a Proclamation for the suspension of hostilities, and informing me of
                                your design to recal your Cruizers, and release your Prisoners—In return, Sir, I have the pleasure to enclose a
                                Proclamation by the United Sates of America for a suspension of hostilities—Congress have the measures necessary—for
                                the return of their Prisoners under Consideration, I shall acquaint you with those they adopt—The Resolution
                                transmitted in my last has already informed you, that the humanity of Congress induced them on the first intimation of
                                the Cessation of Hostilities to recal their Cruizers. It is to be hoped Sir, that no difficulties will arise on either
                                side as to the restitution of such Vessels as may have been taken after the Epoch’s mentioned in the Proclamations of
                                His Britannic Majesty and the United States. For tho’ this may be of no great moment when considered in a National
                                Light, yet it becomes important from the number of Captures made upon this Coast within the Latitude of the Canaries,
                                since the third of March last; as well, as from the Presages, which the first steps may furnish of the respect that
                                will in future be paid to the stipulations in the Treaty.
                            The Gentleman who delivered Your Letter—will inform you that it came open to my hands from a mistake in
                                the direction; I am so fully persuaded Sir, that I do not deceive myself, when I impute this rather to mistake, than
                                to the principle which governed in some instances in an early period of the late War, that I should not have noticed
                                it now, but to prevent in future the inconveniencies with which it has been in this instance attended. I am Your
                                Excellency’s most obet servt
                            (Signed) Robt R. Livingston

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                New York, 14th April 1783

                            As I observe in the 7th Article of the Provisional Treaty it is agreed, after stipulating that "all
                                prisoners on both sides shall be set at liberty," that "His Britannic Majesty shall, with all convenient speed, and
                                without causing any destruction, or carrying away any Negroes on other property of the American Inhabitants, withdraw
                                all his Armies, Garrisons, and Fleets from the United States, and from every Port, Place and Harbour within the same,
                                &c., and as Embarkations of persons and property are on the point of being made, I am to request that Congress
                                would be pleased to empower any person or persons, on behalf of the United States, to be present at New York, and to
                                assist such persons as shall be appointed by me, to inspect and Superintend all Embarkations which the Evacuation of
                                this place may require; and that they will be pleased to represent to me every infraction of the Letter or spirit of
                                the treaty, that redress may be immediately ordered." I am Sir Your most Obedient Hum. servt

                                Guy Carleton


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 15 April 1783
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

                            My dear General.
                            Philadelphia April the 15th 1783

                        Because I have no reason to believe myself forgotten, notwithstanding you have not written to me for a long
                            time. I would not leave Philadelphia without congratulating with you upon an event the most fortunate for America, and the
                            most glorious for my general. You have carried us through a long war; you have not sunk under the severest tryals; and you
                            live to see a country enjoy the blessings of peace, and the result of your struggles. I know that you will not have it in
                            your power to return to your seat for some time, but when you do return, I have a favor to ask in the name of my fellow
                            citizens, whom I can assure you are among the foremost in gratitude for your long series of services. They all anxiously
                            wish to possess you for one day at Baltimore, and I beg you will make it convenient to oblige
                            them in what they have so much at heart. I have ventured to give them hopes, and I have now to beg leave to confirm them.
                            I have only to add my prayers that you and Mrs Washington may soon experience at Mount Vernon that peace and those
                            tranquil pleasures which are superior to all others.
                        Before I close this short letter permit me to suggest something which I wish you to do for me when you come
                            to this place or in any other manner you may think best. I am desirous as well on account of my health as from curiosity,
                            to change my climate. There will be a number of appointments made to Europe by Congress. I would have no objection to go
                            as official secretary to our resident or minister at Paris or London, and this I imagine may be easily obtained through
                            your interest. A letter to Mr Livingston might be of use. Mr Maddison from your State has weight in Congress, and could
                            promote such an appointment. Hamilton thinks the post almost certain but he is too sanguine. But you
                            will judge what ought to be done and will no doubt take those steps best calculated to give success. It
                            is said the appointments are soon to come on.
                        I return to Maryland to our Assembly which is called to meet the 21 inst. Most affectionately &
                            sincerely I have the honor to be my dear General your ob. st

                            James McHenry

                            A propos. Has any thing been effected for Mrs Dulany?


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Aston Coffin, 15 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Coffin, Thomas Aston

                            By His Excy
                             15 April 1783

                         It having been represented to me that Mr  Tho: Aston Coffin has obtained the Permission of the Executive of
                            the Commonwealth of Massa. to go from N. York to Boston to Visit his Friends—If this is Bona
                            fide the Case—Permission is hereby granted to the sd Mr Ths Austin Coffin to proceed by Land from the City of N. York
                            to Boston, for the Purposes mentioned above and to return again. Given at Hd Qrs &c. the 15th Apr 1783.


Title: To George Washington from Theodorick Bland, 16 April 1783
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

                            Sr
                            Philadelphia April 16th 1783

                        I have been honord with your Excellencys two favors of the 31st Ultimo and the 4th Inst—the latter
                            accompanied with your full and explicit answer on the Subject on which I addressed your Excellency in my last at the
                            request of the Committe—it has been according to your desire communicated to Col: Hamilton and the other Members who
                            compose the Committe confidentially and is now under consideration—We have conferred with the
                            Superintendant of Finance, and be assured our utmost endeavrs shall not be wanting to bring to a Speedy (and I hope happy
                            conclusion) the objects Your Excellency has pointed to with so much clearness, candor & Energy.
                        Confident I am that there is every disposition in Congress to Appreciate the Services and sufferings of the
                            Army—Unquestionably the most meritorious Class of Citizens in this long & at length, Successfull Contest. I am not
                            less persuaded in my own mind, that what depends on the States respectively to put the finishing hand to a complete
                            compensation of their long and meritorious Services and Sufferings will be cheerfully complied with; But these Sr are the
                            Expectations or opinions, of an Individual Strongly impressed and ardently (perhaps too Sanguinely) hoping for that
                            desireable event, in which Expectation of I am disappointed—I shall, with you Sr, have to lament, the most fatal
                            Infatuation, and the grossest ingratitude that ever Seized the heads or corrupted the hearts of a Nation and its Councils
                            towards a Body of men to whom they owe their Political existence and all those blessings which every good Man wishes to
                            see flow from our Union and Independance.
                        We hope to have the Answer tomorrow from the Superintendant of Finance, on the Practicability of the
                            Measure—which shd it be even in the negative (which I do not expect) I think I can assure Your Excellency—Such is the
                            Interest the Committe takes in the Welfare of the Army, that they will not stop in their Endeavors, to devise such
                            measures as may in the end, prove as beneficial and Satisfactory as those which Yr excellency have thought of—if in their
                            Power.
                        Yr Excelly’s observations on the necessity of Establishing a National Character Stampd with the indelible
                            traits of Justice, Gratitude and Faith, carry with them the irresistable force of conviction and meet with my most cordial
                            concurrence nor have I a doubt, that, when the Tumult of War has subsided, but this Enlightend Country altho at present
                            young in Politics—will soon discover the Importance and truth of your observation, and adopt it as the surest Basis on
                            which, must be founded the future greatness and Prosperity of these rising and important States. It is with Infinite
                            pleasure that I think I have observed, such Ideas, succeeding rapidly, to those of Chicane, which so strongly marked, the Councils
                            as well as Manners of the People at large in the days of Paper and Depreciation—from these considerations—I am led to form
                            the most pleasing Augury of our future greatness and respectability among Nations, which has in a great measure dispelld
                            those fears and Bodings of the evils, which a Joining of Interests among so many Sovereignties, United in one federal
                            chain seemed to threaten. I am happy to think, that local Interests and prejudices will give way to
                                a great and general good when clearly seen and well understood—and prudently and constitutionally persued. These
                            Sr are in my Apprehension the grand objects of our general Council; a steady persuit of which without turning to the right
                            or to the left, from local considerations, party animosity, partial views, or Corrupt Influence, will certainly guide the
                            Vessel of the State to a Safe Anchorage, and reward the Pilots with the Estimation and applause of their fellow Citizens
                            and the Admiration and respect of foreign Powers.
                        I am happy to Inform Yr Excellency that a requisition to the States, on such principles as the federal
                            constitution will Authorize if adopted and on such liberal principles as I hope will facilitate if not insure the
                            adoption, is now so far advanced as to be on the point of its passage through Congress, which will afford the means of
                            Providing ample and permanent funds for the payment of the Interest not only of our army but of foreign and domestic
                            creditors of every description, as well as for sinking the Principal—I cannot, here, omit suggesting to Yr Excelly that
                            your personal Interest with some of the leading Members of our Legislature, and perhaps with some of the other states,
                            might give a happy turn to those requisitions, when they are laid before the assemblies, especially if grounded on the
                            feelings and true Situation of the Army with which you Sr are universally acknowledged to be better acquainted, and more
                            conversant than any other person can possibly be. Embarked in the Same cause, and I flatter myself on the same principle
                            as Yr Excellency—I hope I need not apologize for the length of my letter, as its contents will fully demonstate the
                            Interests I have in the Successful Issue of our common Endeavors that peace shall not arrive without its Blessings—content
                            and happiness to those by whose exertions it has been principally procured—nor need I give an
                            additional proof, I hope, of that entire confidence and esteem with which I am Yr Excellencys most obedt and very Humb.
                            Sert

                            Theok Bland

                            P.S. I have not yet received any answer from Sr Guy Carleton to my letter which you were so obliging to
                                Send in—shd I receive it I shall certainly communicate its contents to Yr Excelly or shd any letter come from him
                                through Yr Hands directed to me Yr Excelly will be pleased to open & peruse it for Yr Satisfaction on the
                                subject you mention.

                            T.B.


Title: To George Washington from Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle Duportail, 16 April 1783
From: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle
To: Washington, George

                            dear general
                            philadelphie 16 april 1783

                        I take the liberty of sending to your Excellency a letter from Cap. bushnell to general lincoln Concerning Mr
                            Reckless. you will see what is the subject of the application of this gentleman. gel lincoln believes that the only thing
                            necessary in that affair is to ascertain the facts mentionned in the letter and to Know if the intention of your
                            exellency was to appoint Mr Reckless in the Corps of sapers and miners and if you have been prevented from doing it only
                            by the doubt of your wright. we beg your Excellency to be pleased to let us Know his intention.
                        I am expecting every day the orders of the Court of france. as they will probably Recall us home and will
                            give us perhaps very little time, I wish if your Excellency thinck that we Can be of some farther service to this Country
                            in this moment to Communicate to me his orders and wishes. my attachment to america and in particular to your Excellency
                            will not finish with the war but only with my life, and I will thinck myself very happy and much honored if I Can be of
                            some utility to a Country that is in my heart next to the Country to which I owe my birth. I have the honour to be with
                            the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s the most obedient and humble servant

                            duportail

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                West Point April 6th 1783

                            Mr Anthony Reckless, who delivers this, has served as a Volunteer, in the Corps of Sappers &
                                Miners about thirteen Months; he has had encouragement from his first joining the Corps, of an appointment in it, and
                                I understand, the only reason why he has not been appointed, was, the doubt his Excellency General Washington
                                entertained, of his right to appoint him. This was the purport of his Excellency’s Conversation (as I have been
                                informed) with Major Villefranche last Summer, then the Chief Engineer, when he solicided the General in behalf of Mr
                                Reckless—Afterwards I mentioned the Matter to Colonel Humphrys his Excellency’s Aid, who immediately laid it before
                                the General—Colo. Humphrys informed me, the General was willing to have Mr Reckless appointed, but could not determine
                                whether he had the right of appointing him before his papers were examined; if upon examination, the right was found
                                in him, he would appoint Mr Reckless; if not, he would use his influence as far as was consistent—The General’s papers
                                were examined, and as nothing appeared that determined the Matter, as I was informed, it was concluded he consult your
                                Honour upon the Subject, you being then expected at Head Quarters. A few days ago, I was informed, by Colonel
                                Humphrys, that the matter had been referred to you, that a memorandum was given you, and that the whole depended upon
                                you, and advised me to write to your Honour respecting it.
                            I trust the Memorandum contains every necessary information. An Objection may arise, against appointing
                                Mr Reckless, as the War is at a Close, and he, by an appointment may be intitled to  half pay or the commutation
                                agreeable to Resolves of Congress. It is of consequence to Mr Reckless to have an appointment, if he receives no
                                emolument from the publick—He would freely give up every Idea of half pay, commutation, or compensation for what is
                                past, if he can but be gratified in this his earnest request. Though I believe many have been appointed since he joined the Corps, and will enjoy every emolument of
                                Officers who have been long in service I cannot plead, that it should be done for him; your Honour will judge the
                                propriety of it. If he should meet with your approbation, and receive a Commission I could wish, if
                                he has no other advantage, that his Commission so much for the sake of the pay as that it
                                might appear  been neglected by the Publick, while in her Service, though he does not request
                                it for himself. I have the Honour to be With the greatest Respect Your Honour’s most obedt Servant

                                D. Bushnell Capt. Comdg
                                Sappers & Miners


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste de Gouvion, 16 April 1783
From: Gouvion, Jean-Baptiste de
To: Washington, George

                            Newburg april the 16th 1783

                        How large must be the continental Army to be Kept after this War is not an easy matter to determine in the
                            present moment, it depends from two different and distinct objects Which comprehend a very extensive plan, the first is
                            the number of forts absolutely wanting Garrison for the protection of the frontiers, and opposing the indians in case they
                            Would keep up their hostile invasions or renew it at any time. The Second is the garrison of the harbours for the
                            continental navy, which being destined to contain Stores of great value and importance are not to lay open to an invasion
                            in case the united States Should happen to be at War With any power. I shall not enter into any discussion about these two
                            great objects, but lay here only few remarks concerning alterations which I think are necessary in the Continental army
                            for its future establishment.
                        Each regiment to be Kept or to be raised ought not to belong to any particular State, but to the continent at
                            large, the officers and men to be taken indifferently from any part, it is to be feared that if the contrary did exist the
                            officers would alwais use all their influence to be alwais Stationed in the State they Should belong to, and in a Short
                            time be like inhabitants to the great detriment of discipline and military Spirit.
                        0. a regiment or part of it ought never to Keep garrison more than eighteen months in the Same place, in a
                            longer length of time they get too many acquaintainces injurious to the Service, and being in a manner Settled neglect
                            their duty to employ themselves about their own conveniences.
                        1. promotion by Seniority is the destruction of emulation, because every officer is Sure to be promoted
                            according to his rank, also many Worthy officers are fit to be captains but not to be field officers, So that Sistem ought
                            to be left aside, merit, activity and attention constantly pay’d to instruction, duty and discipline must be the only
                            recommendation for promotion above the rank of captain, a board of Superior officers be the Judge of it, and the necessary
                            precautions to be taken to hinder private interest from prevailing.
                        as the number of troops Keept on foot during the time of peace Shall be inadequate to that necessary in time
                            of war, they must be alwais in the best and most regular order, so that being destributed among the regiments raised for a
                            War they Should bring with them discipline, instruction and enable the others men to perform in a Short Space of time
                            every part of a Soldier’s duty with propriety.
                        the young officers who Should be willing to acquire Some military Knowledge ought to be permitted to follow
                            the after mentioned military academy and proper encouragement given to them, those to be admitted in the quarter master’s
                            departement ought to be obliged to it, because it is not easy to perform their duty in all its different parts chiefly
                            when an army of Some extent has to move in a difficult country.
                        2. It is not very difficult to form an officer of foot, or of horse, it does not require a long space of time,
                            but an officer of Artillery and an Engineer Want a great application to be perfectly instructed in all the different
                            branches of their Service. being more acquainted with the duty of these two corps than of any other I will particularise
                            as much as in my power the different methods to be follow’d for the instruction of their officers, and the regulations to
                            be established to attain it. their Service is of So important a nature, and of Such a consequence in the field that no
                            pains ought to be Spared to have them fully acquainted with the theorical and practical parts of it.
                        the military operations of these two corps have Such a connection that it is not possible to be a good
                            officer of Artillery without having a pretty extensive Knowledge of the Service of an Engineer, and this one to Serve With
                            Some reputation must be acquainted With the principal parts of the artillery Service, then I think that it Should be
                            advantageous to the good of the Service to have these two corps united, to form one only, and that each officer Should
                            acquire the necessary Knowledge to be able to perform With propriety what belong to one or the other of these two duties,
                            according to what circumstances Should require from him.
                        A well established military academy and Kept up With great care, is the basis which is to Serve to raise that
                            corps to the pitch of instruction necessary to it. officers of Knowledge, carefull, and attentive must be put at the head
                            of it, they must consider that the pains they shall take are to form officers who are to have charge afterwards of
                            important operations, which require Sometimes great military talents. there must be attached to it a good professor of
                            mathematicks and another of drawing. every young gentleman to be admitted in the Said academy must have had a liberal
                            education, and be previously instructed in arithmetick, geometry including trigonometry, at his coming in, his Knowledge
                            of mathematicks must be carry’d to perfection, he Shall recieve instruction about the different machines
                            employ’d by the artillery or the engineers, their construction, the forces to be employ’d to put them in
                            motion, and their effect. he Shall be taught to Survey by every method, and to draw exactly the ground Survey’d by him, to
                            make plans and profils of works and buildings in the greatest detail, the abovementioned parts belong entirely to the
                            professors, what follows must be thaught by the commanding officers.
                        3. the young gentlemen Shall be instructed how to chuse positions for an army in consequence of the part of the
                            country to be covered and the communications to be Kept open, they will learn to fortify them by field works depending
                            from the nature of the ground, the number of troops Supposed to be employ’d to deffend them, and the
                            Strength of the ennemy. they Shall be taught to determine the most advantageous batteries on a field of battle, and their
                                constrution in the most expeditious manner; they are to be instructed in the greatest detail of all
                            what relates to the fortify’d towns including the maritime places, their tracing, construction, and the estimate of the
                                quantity of work and expences, those parts can not be attended to with too much
                            care, because the least blunder is often attended with infinite bad consequences. they Shall recieve instruction concerning
                            the Subterraneous fortification, the attack and deffense of Works by the means of mines. they Shall be taught how to
                            reconnoitre an ennemy’s fortification, lay it on the paper, and determine exactly the different distances from it. every
                            year the commanding officers of the Academy Should make choice of a piece of ground fit to lay out a front
                            of fortification, the direction and the heigth of the works Should be mark’d with poles, he Should
                            explain to the young gentlemen the use of each part of it, and the reasons which have determined the direction of it; that
                            part being finished they will proceed to the attack of it, all the batteries and Works necessary from the opening of the
                            trenchees to the reduction of the place are to be lay’d out, and Some parts of it to be done to give them an idea of the
                            different construction made use of in those occasions, they Will pay a particular attention to the advantages afforded by
                            the nature of the ground, also to the means the besieged could employ to oppose the approaches with Success. that being
                            performed every young gentleman is to Survey that front and its attack and make a copy of it, also a memorial on its
                            construction its attack and deffense, adding to it an estimate of the artillery Stores, and ammunitions necessary for the
                            besieged and besiegers in consequence of the strength of the fortification, and of the Supposition of the time the Siege
                            could last. when perfectly instructed in all the different parts here above mentioned, of which the general commanding the
                            corps, and the officers at the head of the academy are to be the Judges he is to be admitted into one of the regiments of
                            artillery, the continent cannot Keep less than two, and are to be composed as follows, Light companies of gunners, two
                            companies of bombadiers, one of Sappers and miners and one of Artificers.
                        the regiments are to be exercised twice a Week to the firing of canon, Mortars, &ca a field officer to
                            be alwais present and report to the commanding officer of the regiment when absent from the field of exercise.
                        the Subalterns ought to recieve twice a Week a lesson about the theorical parts of the artillery and a
                            captain to be present to it, to maintain the good order and preside to the instructions and from time to time they Should
                            be exercised again about what they have learned in the Academy.
                        the Captains and field officers ought to have two times a Week a conference where they should treat of all
                            the parts concerning artillery, fortifications, manufactures of arms, powder mills, castings of canons, Shells, balls, the
                            best dimensions to be given to the pieces and carriages, in Short their object Should be to carry the instruction and
                            Service of that corps to the greatest perfection, the commanding officer Should ask a memorial from every officer on the
                            interesting points he would have proposed for discussion.
                        besides the officers on duty with the regiments there should be a certain number to perform the duty on
                            Engineers where necessary, but none Should be Sent for that purpose unless he had been employ’d Successively in the four
                            distinct sorts of companies forming a regiment, and should be perfectly acquainted with their Service. he could not be on
                            that command for more than three years, after which time he Should Join a regiment and be relieved by another officer Sent
                            to the Same effect.
                        A company ought not to be detached from the regiment for more than two years, because it is to be feared that
                            (in a longer Space of time) the men would loose the greatest part of the instruction acquired with the regiment, if too
                            a long time absent from it.
                        the companies of Sappers and miners Should have a particular exercise relative to their duty in the field,
                            but their officers Should also partake of the general instruction of the corps of artillery.
                        it is absolutely necessary that the officers of the companies of artificers should be intelligent,
                            attentive, and industrious, they ought not only take rank with those of the others companies, but their places Should be
                            considered as places of trust and confidence.
                        there ought to be some officers (extra of the number of those with the regiments) detached in the different
                            manufactories of arms, places for casting canons, and powder mills, to Superintend the Works, they should be relieved from
                            time to time by others coming from the regiments, those Stations are to be looked upon as of great importance.
                        a field officer Should be in every district at the head of the fortifications, and judge of everything to be
                            proposed, he could not remain there when promoted but join a regiment.
                        it is of the utmost consequence that an officer of artillery attached to a brigade with some field pieces
                            Should be perfectly acquainted with the different manoeuvres of the troops, so it is a part which is not to be neglected.
                        the plan I propose here to form but one corps of those of artillery and Engineers was put in execution in
                            france, but as it was in time of war Some Engineers were Sent to the Army to do the duty of the Artillery, and Some
                            officers of artillery to Serve as Engineers, but having not had time to be perfectly acquainted with the details of a
                            Service of which they had but a general Knowledge it was found proper after a little while to let every of those officers
                            Serve in the line they did formerly belong to, and the two corps were desunited, but I am confident that if the reunion
                            had taken place in another circumstance, so that the officer of each corps Should have had time to acquire What Knowledge
                            Was Wanting to them of the service they did not at first belong to; that plan Would have Succeded, and found afterwards
                            very advantageous.

                            J. Gouvion


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 16 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

                            Dear Sir,
                            Newburgh April 16th 1783

                        My last letter to you was written in a hurry, when I was fatigued by the more public—yet confidential letter
                            which (with several others) accompanied it; possibly, I did not on that occasion express myself (in what I intended as a
                            hint) with so much perspicuity as I ought—possibly too, what I then dropped might have conveyed more than I intended; for
                            I do not, at this time, recollect the force of my expressions.
                        My meaning however, was only to inform, that there were different sentiments in the Army as well as in
                            Congress, respecting Continental & State Funds; some wishing to be thrown upon their respective States rather than
                            the Continent at large, for payment—& that, if an idea should prevail generally that Congress, or part of its
                            Members—or Ministers, bent upon the latter, should delay doing them justice, or hazard it in pursuit of their favourite object; it might create such divisions in the Army as
                            would weaken, rather than strengthen the hands of those who were disposed to support Continental measures—and might tend to defeat the end they themselves had in view by endeavouring to involve the Army.
                        For these reasons I said, or meant to say, the Army was a dangerous Engine to work with, as it might be made
                            to cut both ways—and, considering the sufferings of it, would, more than probably, throw its weight into that Scale which
                            seemed most likely to preponderate towards its immediate relief, without looking forward (under the pressure of present
                            wants) to future consequences with the eyes of Politicians. In this light also I meant to apply my observations to Mr
                            Morris, to whom, or rather to Mr G. M———is ascribed, in a great degree, the ground work of the superstructure which was
                            intended to be raised in the Army by the Anonymous addresses.
                        That no Man can be more opposed to state funds & local prejudices than myself, the whole tenor of my
                            conduct has been one continual evidence of—No Man perhaps has had better opportunities to see
                            & to feel the pernicious tendency of the latter than I have. and I endeavor (I hope not
                            altogether ineffectually) to inculcate them upon the officers of the Army upon all proper occasions; but their feelings
                            are to be attended to & soothed; and they assured that if Continental funds cannot be established, they will be
                            recommended to their respective states for payment. Justice must be done them.
                        I should do injustice to Report & what I believe to be the opinion of the Army were I not to inform
                            you, that they consider you as a friend, zealous to serve them, and one who has espoused their interests in Congress upon
                            every proper occasion—It is to be wished, as I observed in my letter to Colo. Bland, that Congress would send a Comee to
                            the Army with Plenipo: powers; The matters requested of me in your letter of the  as Chair Man of a Comee and many other things might then be brought to a close with more dispatch and
                            in a happier manner than it is likely they will be by an intercourse of letters at the distance of 150 Miles; which takes
                                our Expresses, a week at least to go & come. At this
                            moment, being without any instructions from Congress, I am under great embarrassment with respect to the Soldiers for the
                            War & shall be obliged more than probably, from the necessity of the case, to exercise my own judgment without
                            waiting for orders, as to the discharge of them—If I should adopt measures which events may approve; all will be well—If
                            otherwise, why & by what authority did you do so.
                        How far a strong recommendation from Congress to observe All the Articles of Peace as well as the  may imply a
                            suspicion of good faith in the people of this Country, I pretend not to judge; but I am much mistaken if something of the
                            kind will not be found wanting as I already perceive a disposition to Carp at, & to elude such parts of the treaty
                            as affect their different interests altho’ you do not find a Man who—when pushed—will not acknowledge that upon the whole it is a more advantageous Peace than we could possibly have expected. I am Dear Sir with
                            great esteem & regard Yr Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 16 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 16th April 1783

                        I have received your Letter of the 9th instant in behalf of a Committee of Congress—requestg my Sentiments
                            upon the military Department of a Peace Establishment.
                        As this Discussion will involve a variety of Considerations, & those of very great Importance—The
                            Committee will indulge me in a little Time to collect & concenter my Ideas on this Subject & they may
                            depend on my communicating them in the best manner I am able—& at the earliest period in my power. I am
                        &c.


Title: To George Washington from Jedediah Huntington, 16 April 1783
From: Huntington, Jedediah
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir,
                            West Point 16 April 1783

                        I began to be anxious about the Situation and Temper of the Soldiers engaged for the War—although many of them
                            are willing to stay a little longer—some are very desirous of going immediately, and all of them considering their
                            Engagements fulfil’d, a few may excite the whole to Disturbances—the non commissioned Officers of the 1st & 3d
                            Connect. Regiments have lately had a Meeting on the Subject of addressing Your Excellency respecting half Pay—what Claim
                            the soldeiry may think of it is impossible to divine.
                        I wish Discharges might be given to the War Men who choose to take them—grounded
                            on a Supposition that their Affairs require them at Home—they being directed in Orders to leave their Orders for such
                            Monies as may be had before the disbanding the Army—in some such way as this they might be let off by Degrees—I am very
                            doubtful whether Officers who may Undertake to conduct Parties to the rispective States; will be able to keep them under
                            Restraint—if they cannot Parties will be a Terror to the Country, if no worse. I am with the highest Respect &
                            Esteem your Excelly most obedient Servant

                            J. Huntington B.G.


Title: To George Washington from William Irvine, 16 April 1783
From: Irvine, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Carlisle April 16th 1783

                        I have received a letter this day from Lt Colonel Byard at Fort Pitt informing that the Savages have killed
                            and taken a number of families nearly at the same time in several in different quarters of the Country, both on the
                            frontier of Virginia & Pennsylvania, seventeen persons are said to be killed and scalped in one small settlement
                            on Wheeling Creek—This stroke has been very unexpected numbers of people were returning to their places in confidence that
                            these wretches would not dare to continue the war unsupported.
                        I presume this conduct will give force to a temper already pretty prevalent among the back settlers, never to
                            make peace with the Indians, and indeed I am almost persuaded it will be next to impossible to insure peace with them
                            untill the whole of the western tribes are driven over the Missisippy and the Lakes entirely beyond the American lines
                            which will not now be very difficult, but would take at least two summers, & be attended with great expence, yet I
                            am certain not so great as holding treaties, and have much better effects as all the sums heretofore expended in treating
                            and presents have been worse than thrown away—I have not yet been honored with your Excellencys acknowledgement of the
                            receipt of my letters of the 6th and 28th March. I have the honor to be with perfect respect Sir your Excellencys Most
                            Obedient & Most Humble Servant

                            Wm Irvine


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 16 April 1783
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            My dear General
                            West point 16 April 1783

                        I think it necessary to inform your Excellency that there is a general uneasiness among the New-Commissioned
                            officers of the Connecticut Line grounded principally upon the inequality of the rewards to the officers and Soldiers.
                            They say the rewards ought to be in a strict proportion, and if the officers receive five years pay as a reward for
                            services the same rule ought to extend to them, instead of which they have only the promise of one years pay. The matter
                            will issue I beleive in a petition to your Excellency upon the subject.
                        Whether the idea has originated with themselves, or whether it is the suggestion of some designing person I
                            cannot learn. Certain it is the claim is new and not connected with any promise of Congress. It is not improbable but
                            other claims may spring up; therefore I think the sooner we can begin to discharge the War  the
                            better. Reasons may be given that many men must want to attend to their farms in the present season, and that every
                            attention ought to be paid to men deserving so much of their Country, twenty or thirty from each
                            regiment should be discharged upon such a day, provided they left orders to receive the certificates of the pay due, and
                                then such pay as may be furnished previous to the dissolution of the Army—Or three days afterwards
                            an equal number and so on. I am my Dear General with the utmost respect your Humble servt

                            H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 16 April 1783
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            War Office April 16. 1783

                        By the enclosed Resolves of Congress, your Excellency will learn, that we are in conjunction to make proper
                            Arrangements for setting at liberty all land Prisoners.
                        It seems to be the wish of Congress that this business should be effected as soon as possible, therefor to
                            avoid the delays which may arise by adjusting the matter between us by Letter, I have to propose that your Excellency
                            would meet me at Ring wood on saturday Noon, this will not only shorten my distance, but as I shall ride in a Chair, it
                            will save me the worst part of the Road—My route from Morris Town will be through Pompton. I have the Honor to be with
                            sincere esteem Your Excellencys Most Obed. Hble sert

                            B. Lincoln

                            N.B. I wish the Qr Mr General would attend your Excellency to Ring wood.


Title: To George Washington from John Paterson, 16 April 1783
From: Paterson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Hutts, Massachusetts Line April 16th 1783

                        In consequence of your Excellency’s suggesting to me yesterday, a wish that I would give my opinion in what
                            parts of the United States posts should be established for its security and defence, I have naturely reflected on the
                            subject, and conceive that they ought to be established at the following places, viz. Oswego, Niagara, Detroit, and
                            Mishellemackanai, which I am persuaded will compleatly awe the savages, cut off the communication between those
                            inhabitating the east side of the lakes, and those on the west; it will also be a protection to the good citizens in those
                            parts, give the requisite confidence to people who may wish to become settlers there, and will, in due time, be productive
                            of salutary advantages to the public.
                        I am firmly of opinion that a force should always be maintained for the defence of West Point, and the
                            protection of the military stores, supposing that it will be made the grand arsenal of stores for the northern States. I
                            am clear that a garrison should be made at Penobscutt, as a protection to the inhabitants of the eastern parts of
                            Massachusetts, from the inroads of the indians; and conceive it will greatly facilitate the settlement of that country.
                        As to the number of Troops necessary for the purposes aforementioned, I think it must depend on the
                            importance of the different places, of which your Excellency is a competent Judge.
                        The being unacquainted with the southern states, precludes me from giving my opinion relative to the forces
                            necessary to be kept there, &c. I am with veneration and esteem, your excellency’s obedt servant

                            John Paterson