Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 4 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear sir
                            Philadelphia March 4th 82

                        Upon an intimation that the Enemy’s Vessels had been caught in the Ice at Lake Champlain in returning to St
                            Johns last Fall General Schuyler sent a scout of Indians to ascertain the fact, and I had determined, had they returned in
                            time with a favorable report, to have attempted the distruction of the Vessels—Not having yet heard anything more of the
                            matter, I have little doubt but it will be too late to make the attempt, supposing the situation to have been as
                            represented—But as I would wish not to have missed an opportunity of striking a stroke so very detrimental to the Enemy, I
                            have desired General Schuyler to communicate his information to you and if the thing should be deemed yet practicable to
                            make you acquainted with the strength of the party necessary for such an operation and with the manner it ought to be
                            equiped—You will give the Officer such instructions as shall be concerted between General Schuyler and your self.I am Dear
                            sir Your Most Obt Humle Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 4 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Philadelphia March 4 1782

                        Your favor of the 20th Inst. with the several inclosures has been duly receivd.
                        I cannot but hope your decision respecting the soldiers under sentence for desertion will be attended with
                            beneficial consequences.
                        It is a fortunate circumstance that the Troops will be recoverd from the small Pox at so early a period as
                            will afford time for establishing discipline and making preparations for the Field before the opening of the Campaign—not
                            a moment should be lost in having the Recruits drilled & instructed in their duty as soon as they arrive &
                            in having the Corps as much collected and as perfectly disciplined as the state of the Service will admit. The former
                            discouragements and difficulties arising from the want of Cloathing I flatter myself will be removed and a new Stimulus
                            will therefore be given to the ambition of both officers & men—I wish it may also be impressed on them that the
                            Regiments being now on an equallity with respect to the Articles receivd of the public; whatever difference of appearance
                            there shall be discoverd in different Corps, must be owing to the superior attention of the Officers & Emulation
                            of the Men, in those Regts which shall be found to make the most Soldiers like appearances; and cannot fail to attract the
                            notice & applause of their Generals, as well as gain that just preference in the eyes of their Allies which must
                            be extremely flattering to them as Military Men.
                        To determine on the objections which Major General McDougall has made to the President & three of the
                            Members of the Court Martial appointed for his trial, recourse must be had to the precedent
                            established on a Similar occasion in the trial of General Arnold in which the validity of Challenges is ascertained. You
                            will be pleased therefore to apply to my recording Secretary Colo. Varick, in whose possession I believe the original
                            Paper is for a Copy of it that the present dispute may be decided upon the principles there laid down.
                        I inclose a line to Colo. Varick for that purpose. I am Dear Sir Your very humble Servant

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. I wish you to furnish Genl McDougall with Copies of such Returns & Official papers as may
                                be necessary in the Course of his trial—Your letter of the 24th is just come to hand.


Title: From George Washington to Pierre Charles L’Enfant, 4 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: L’Enfant, Pierre Charles

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia 4th March 1782

                        I have been favord with a Letter from you of the 18th feby—I am sensible how disagreable it is to have an
                            inferior Officer promoted over your head, and am sorry it is not in my power to remedy it—The promotion of Major
                            Rochefontaine was a matter in which I had not the least interference, it took place solely on the recommendation of
                            General Duportail, who I believe represented to Congress, that it was the practise of all Nations after a successfull
                            Seige, to promote the Engineers who had contributed to the Success.
                        Your Zeal and active Services are such as reflect the highest honor on yourself and are extremely pleasing to
                            me and I have no doubt they will have their due weight with Congress in any future promotion in your Corps. I am sir Your
                            Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 4 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                            Sir
                            Philada 4th March 1782

                        Well knowing the difficulties in which you are involved it ever gives me pain to make application to you on the
                            score of Money. But as I cannot give the Baron Steuben an answer without knowing whether it will be in your power to
                            comply with the terms he asks, I am under the necessity of inclosing his letter to me on the subject of the arrearages of
                            his Pay.I am with great Respect Sir Yr most obt and hbl servt.


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 4 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Sir,
                            Head Quars: Philada, March 4th 1782

                        In reply to your letter of yesterday I have to observe. although I am not so particularly acquainted with the
                            different uses & conveniences of different kinds of water craft, as to be able to judge with accuracy of their
                            respective utility from my own knowledge, yet from the reasons you have given, I am induced to believe that the advantage
                            of Pettiangers over Batteaux & flat bottomed boats, in certain services, will more than counterbalance the
                            difference of expense, & that it would be expedient for them to be made use of in the manner you propose at West
                            Point & Kings ferry.
                        I am also of opinion that all things considered, it will be a saving to the public in the end, to raise a
                            company of watersmen for the purpose you suggest to be employed under the care of an active, faithful & skillful
                            Superintendant. who shall be immediately responsible for the preservation & repair of the boats in ordinary use as
                            well as others. That measure therefore will meet the approbation of Sir Your most Obdt Servant

                            G. Washington.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Louis-Ambroise, chevalier de Villefranche de Genton, 4 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Villefranche de Genton, Jean-Louis-Ambroise, chevalier de

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia March 4. 1782

                        I am favord with your Letter of the 24 feby inclosing the several plans therein mentiond and I beg you to
                            accept my thanks for your Services in constructing the Several Works on the Mohawk River.
                        Your Representation respecting your Rank and claim of promotion is also come to hand—I am very sensible of
                            the Zeal, professional knowledge and Activity you have Shewn during your Services in this Country and should be happy in
                            contributing to your advancement—but it is a matter in which I have not in the least interfered. those
                            Gentlemen of your Corps who have obtained promotions owe it intirely to their good fortune in having assisted at a
                            successfull Operation and to the Representations which were made to Congress by General Du Portail in consequence thereof.
                        That you had not the good fortune to share in that success was not your fault—nor can the Minister of France
                            or any other person on that account take up any Idea injurious to your Reputation as an Officer—Your Character in the Army
                            will always command such Testimonials as will not only remove every such Idea but will in France give that just Value to
                            your Services which they Merit. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Charles, marquis de La Rouërie Armand Tuffin, 5 March 1782
From: Armand Tuffin, Charles, marquis de La Rouërie
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             5 March 1782

                        I have been honored with your letter of the 13 febry—the exchanges of Col–ternant Capts le Brun &
                            bert which have been effected trough your usual Goodness for the legion are of a real advantage to that Corps—I lament
                            Sincerely that we are deprived of the benefit which we would reap from the talents of the first of thoses Gentlemen if his
                            Exertions were sollely confined to his duty in the legion—but as soon your Exellency Call upon him for others purposes, I
                            know too well that his & the public advantages are meant by it not to partake the Satisfaction he must feel when
                            he receive such distinguished marks of your Esteem—hoever, permit me, Sir, to Consider him as belonging to the legion
                            & the properest person to Command that Corps if the Circumstances I had the honor to mantion in wraiting to your
                            Exellency while at york did force me to quit this service where indeed I have continued thoses two years, only through my
                            unalterable respect and attachment to the Commandier in chief while I had all reasons to be disgusted by the weakness
                            & kind of my Command & injurious promotions of foreigners—when I had the honor to wrait you last—I
                            expected, no full Colonel of the horse should have joigned at the suthern & therefore had put off to the time
                            where by their presence at the same army we Should interfere with each other for the Command which I Should be unwilling
                            to give up & that for reasons too obvious to your Exellency to need any further mention—Since I wrote to you about
                            that matter at york the promotions which have taken place this winter altogether with the Circumstances above mentioned
                            have intirely fined my determination—& Should your exellency not be disposed to patronize my right, it would be
                            indeed with the utmost concern, that I Should see that what I owe to my reputation & friends would render it
                            necessary to me to quit a respectable army.
                        the Condition we are in does not permit any parts of the legion to move at present without disordering the
                            whole.
                        Reasons for remaining at this post or his neighbourhood untill some time in the latter end of this month or
                            the beginning of the next.
                        1. seven taillors employed by the state of virginia are fixed at the barraks 6 miles from here  work
                            Continually for the making up of the Cloathing of the legion.
                        2. nine taillors taken out of the legion are fixed and established at this place for the same purpose.
                        3. contracts are made here with a sadler for mainding the equipement & stoffing the new sadles of the
                            legion—he is to be payed in leather which we may furnish to him at this post—nor the Same man nor the leather are to be got
                            immediatly at an other post.
                        4. if any part of the legion was to move, waggons must be send along with it—for there is not such a thing as
                            to be provided regularly on the road with provisions & forrage.
                        5. far from having any waggons to Spare, the distance of twenty & fiveteen mile which is the Shortest
                            we get the forrage & provisions from is too great to permit us the regular Supply of half allowance with the number
                            of waggons we have.
                        6. one half of thoses waggons are hiered to the legion by the inhabitants while we are here but can not follow
                            us.
                        7th the Condition of the horses & indeed the kind of many are too low & weak in general to
                            form one troop out of the whole able to take the field without weakening & destroying the two others troops
                            & in a few months the whole of the legion would be reduced to nothing—which will not be the Case when the horses I
                            expect from philadelphia will arrive here—by dividing & distributing them agreable to the Condition of thoses allready in the Corps, I will render the Companys of an equal Strenght which with an equal distribution in their duty will by
                            no means reduce any particular troop nor the whole—but even in giving opportunity to not make a hard use of the poors
                            & weaks horses will Contribut much to bring them in a proper order for service.
                        the necessity of sending officers recruiting in front of the legion while on his march to the Suthern,
                            & thoses allready recruiting Could not permit to send a Sufficiant number with a troop that Should Set off by
                            it self.
                        to thoses reasons I beg leave to add that under the present Circumstances of the laws passed in the States
                            & the reluctancy of the people to furnish Continental troops unless Contracts are made or proper Stepts (which are
                            not in my power) taken for their approvisionements, it would be with difficulty & in giving much disgust to the
                            people & a bad name to the legion (which instance is the unavoidable Consequence of the two formest) that I Should
                            proceed on—at all events, it was impossible to me in making all dispatchs to march before twenty days, at which time I may
                            receive an answer from your Exellency which shall dictate my Conduct in all respects.
                        I beg you would order & insist that the horses wanted & for which mr robert morriss has a return
                            & passed a Contract Should be send immediatly or the money to puchasse them—as soon their arrival & we
                            have received the four waggons which Colo. ternant tels me are to come here from philadelphia—the legion will set off for
                            the suthern army & arrive there a respectable & useful body.
                        Cnl ternant who has mustered the legion will have the honor to transmit a return of it to your Exellency. I
                            have the honor to be with the highest respect your Exellency’s the most obdt hl. Svt

                             C. armand


Title: From George Washington to Allan McLane, 5 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: McLane, Allan

                            Philadelphia the 5th of March 1782

                        Captain McLane having informed me that he and some of the Officers who acted under him have had suits brought
                            against them for the seizure of Horses and sundry Articles of provisions near the lines of the Enemy while they had
                            possession of this City.
                        I think it but Justice as well as my duty to declare that from the Month of November 1777 untill the
                            evacuation of this City in June following Capt. McLane commanded a Body of Light Troops upon the Lines and that his Orders
                            particularly were to stop all improper intercourse between the City and County and to seize supplies of every kind going
                            from the Country to the City, in doing which, I was not only authorised by the usage and custom of War but by virtue of
                            Resolves of Congress passed specially for that purpose—And I do further certify that to the best of my knowledge Capt.
                            McLane made no improper use of the powers with which he was vested but confined his seizures intirely to the objects of
                            his Commission. Given under my Hand at Philadelphia the 5th of March 1782.

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Meshech Weare, 5 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Weare, Meshech

(Circular)

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters, Philadelphia, March 5th 1782

                        The operations of next Campaign being contingent, depending in a great degree upon measures which are not
                            within my controul, and very much upon the plans of the Enemy & their efforts to carry them into execution—it is
                            impossible for me, at this time, to say whether any, or how many Militia the States in this part of the Continent may be
                            called upon to furnish, for the purposes of the ensuing Campaign; but as I persuade myself it is the wish of every one of
                            them to see a vigorous offensive plan of Campaign prosecuted, with a view of terminating the War honorably and speedily—it becomes my
                            duty to inform, that, the Continental Force (admitting the Battalions should be compleated); aided by any Auxiliary
                            Troops that I have any expectations of, is totally inadequate to the first and great object, which presents itself to our
                            view; and therefore it may be essential to my future plans that the Executive Powers of the States should be (if they are
                            not so already) vested with sufficient authority to call forth, properly equipped, such a Body of Militia, as the
                            exigencies of Service may require—the demand will not be made but in case of necessity, and will be postponed as long as
                            possible; the consequence therefore of a want of such Powers, or of the delay occasioned by calling an Assembly on such
                            an emergency, might prove fatal to our operations, and injurious to our cause.
                        I need not add how much it is my wish and desire, and how much the public interest will be promoted by it,
                            that the Continental Regiments should be compleated—every man, of which these are deficient, will add to the draught of
                            Militia, and doubly to the public Expences; while the Troops will not be so competent to the purposes, for which they are
                            wanted; to say nothing of the disadvantages which Agriculture & Manufactures will sustain, by having the Labourers &
                            Artisans called off from their Works. I would beg leave to suggest, that the longer term Militia can be drawn out for, the
                            more benificial & less expensive their services will be; and that, in case of a Seige, they ought to be engaged, during the
                            continuance of it, or untill relieved by an equal number, so that the operating strength may not be diminished, at a
                            critical Moment, when it may be most wanted. I have the honor to be
                            With great & esteem Your Most Obdt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Robert Digby, 5 March 1782
From: Digby, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            New York 5th March 1782

                        I have just received Your Excellency’s Letter of 26th February, and will agreeable to your Proposal authorize
                            Major General OHara and Brigadier General Abercrombie to treat concerning the exchange of American Sea Prisoners for the
                            British Prisoners in your Possession, which is the only Point I know of, that wants regulation with respect to the Naval
                            Prisoners.I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Very Obedient Servant

                            Robt Digby


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 5 March 1782
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Freehold 5th March 1782

                        Your Exclys favr of the 25th of Febry was handed me the Next day—in it your Excly Refers me to the Executive
                            of New Jersey to Obtain a permission for Mrs Provost to go into New York as being a Citizen of New Jersey—had I Considered
                            it a mear matter of civel resort I should not have Interested my self so Considerably in Obtaining
                            permission—Neither should I have given Your Excly any Trouble on the Occasion had I Not the fullest assurance of being
                            able to obtain very good Accts of the Enemies situation and Intentions from The Genl I had engaged to attend Mrs Provost,
                            on his Return from these lines, as allso to Establish a line of inteligence.
                        Mrs Provosts Interests in New York and her desire of geting it out afforded a very good pretence &
                            Cover as sutch I principally ment to make use of her going in.
                        I did however on Rect of your Exlys letter Make application to Govr Livingston although I knew him to be
                            obstinately averse to giving permissions—in order to Remove which, I did by letter very minutely give him an Accts of my
                            Views in obtaining the permission—The Govr in his answer says it is a Matter of Milatary resorts and
                            Refers me to your Excly—I had not mentioned in my Request any prior applications—if There is an Impropriety in granting
                            permissions of this kind your Excly will Excuse my Second application, and attribute it to my Information of there formerly
                            haveing been granted with Blanks for Names to be filled in and my not having been Informed of there being disallowed of
                            all this Time.
                        Yesterday three of Lord Cornwallaces Men were taken up on there way to New York—I have this day sent them
                            forward to the Officer Commanding at Trentown.
                        I am Informed from N. York and I believe may be depended on—That an order has passed from the Commander in
                            Chief for disarming the Militia—I am allso Informed that every thing there wares the face of an Expected  Early in the Season—That they are providing a very great Quantity of intrenching Tools—And that
                            no appearance of Evacuating that post remains. I have the Honr to be your Excly Most Obdt Servt

                            David Forman


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 5 March 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                        Dear General,
                            Head quarters, Highlands March 5th 1782.

                        A person from Morrissania acquainted me yesterday morning, that he was informed by an officer, about ten or
                            twelve days since, that a council of war was then sitting—that the question under consideration was, whether to evacuate
                            New York or Charlestown.
                        Captain Pray, who is continued in the guard-boats, to observe the motions of the enemy and collect
                            intelligence, has just written me, that he was yesterday on the east side of the river towards Philips’s, where he was
                            credibly informed, that the enemy begun last Saturday to cut a canal from the North to the East river—that the canal is to
                            be sixty feet deep and five rods wide—It is about two miles out of the city—Two thousand men were at work, three hundred
                            of which were inhabitants of the city—the same number they were to furnish daily: That a fleet of light transports sailed
                            from New York some days since, said for Charlestown to bring the troops from that place. Perhaps your Excellency may have
                            received the same, or more particular intelligence; but I thought it my duty to communicate this by the first conveyance.
                            I have the honor to be With the highest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                            W. Heath

                            P.S. I have lately reported no occurrences to Congress presuming your Excellency will communicate to
                                them such of those I report to you, as you think proper.

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de Ternant, 5 March 1782
From: Ternant, Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Charlotteville march the 5th 1782

                        I have the honor to transmit to your Excellency, the Inspection return of Col: Armand’s legion. Every detail
                            that relates to its present Situation is So fully entered into, in that return, as to make it needless for me to say
                            any thing further on that head.
                        I have endeavoured to express your Excellency’s wishes to Col. Armand as forcibly as I could, with regard to
                            his marching as speedily as possible to the southward, & I am sorry to find that many substantial reasons have
                            determined him not to march the legion from this post, before he receives an answer from your Excellency. It would be
                            presumption in me to say any thing about those reasons after what Col. Armand wrote to your Excellency on that subject. I
                            shall only express my earnest wishes that such steps may be speedily taken as to adjust matters to his
                            satisfaction & forward such necessary supplies, in waggons & horses &c., as to enable him to march
                            so valuable a reinforcement as quickly as possible, to the southern army.
                        however least your Excellency should be induced from some parts of my letter, to attribute the detention of
                            the corps to the dissatisfaction of Col: Armand, with regard to injurious promotions, I take pleasure in assuring your
                            Excellency, that the detention is entirely owing to other reasons, about indispensable supplies, which
                            the Col: has undoutedly fully explained in his letter to your Excellency. I am with great respect your Excellency’s most
                            obedient & very humble servant
                        John Ternant


Title: To George Washington from Victor-François, 2d duc de Broglie, 6 March 1782
From: Broglie, Victor-François, 2d duc de
To: Washington, George

                                Monsieur
                                A Paris ce 6 mars 1782

                            Le temoinage avantageux que vous voulez bien rendre de la maniere dont S’est conduit Le Cher de Lamèth mon
                                neveu a L’attaque des ouvrages avancés des Ennemis pendant le Siege d’yyorck en Virginie, Sera toujours pour lui un Titre
                                infiniment  glorieux. Je vous prie d’etre persuadé que je sens tout le prix de L’attention qui Vous a Engagé a me
                                faire connoitre l’approbation qu’il vous a plu d’accorder a Sa Valeur, et a Sa bonne Conduite. Agrées en mes
                                remerciemens les plus Sinceres, et le assurances de la reconnoissance que J’en conserveray toute ma Vie.
                            Je regarde comme le présage le plus heureuse pour mon neveu d’avoir fait Ses premieres armes Sous un General qui fixe L’attention de l’amerique, et de L’europe, et dont les Talents, et
                                les Succés Sont prest d’operer un Si grand Changement dans ces deux parties du monde.
                            Le Prince de Broglie L’ainé de mes fils desire depuis longtems de se trouver a Vos ordres, il en a depuis
                                peu obtenu la permission du Roy, et Il part incessamment pour S’y rendre. Trouver bon que je vous demande pour lui les
                                mêmes Bontés que vous avez bien Voulu marquer au Chevalier de Lameth, Il s’assura de S’en rendre
                                digne par sa bonne Volonté, et par son zele heureux S’il peut contribuer en quelque chose au Succés d’une Cause Si
                                Juste, et a augmenter Votre Gloire. Jay lhonneur d’etre avec la Consideration la plus distinguée Monsieur Votre trés
                                humble et trés obeissant serviteur

                                Le  de Broglie

                        TranslationSirParis 6 March 1782
                            The advantagious testimony that you was so kind as to give of the conduct of my Nephew the Chevalier de
                                Lameth at the Attack of the Enemies advanced Works during the Siege of York in Virginia will always be a glorious
                                circumstance for him—I beg you to be persuaded how sensible I am of your attention in communicating to me your
                                approbation of his Valour and good conduct—Accept my most sincere thanks Sir and be assured that I shall ever retain
                                the most gratefull sense of it.
                            I regard it as the most happy presage that my nephew has made his first Campaign under a General who
                                the attention of America & Europe and whose Talents and Success is likely to cause so great a change in both
                                parts of the World.
                            The Prince de Broglie the oldest of my Sons has long desired to put himself under your Orders—he has lately
                                obtained the Kings permission and will set out immediately—Permit me to recommend him to the Same favor that Chev. de
                                la Meth experienced—he will by his Zeal and good will try to deserve it—and happy will he be if in any Way he can
                                contribute to your Glory or to the Success of so just a Cause. I have the honor &c.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 6 March 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                        Dear General,

                            Head quarters, Highlands, March 6th 1782.

                        I had the honor, on the 28th ultimo, to acquaint your Excellency of the success of a small party of volunteer
                            horse in making prisoners six of colonel Delancy’s men on the 26th. Apprehending from the disposition of the enemy,
                            discovered at that time, that they might be drawn into ambuscade, it was determined to make the attempt. Major Woodbridge
                            who commands on the lines, having settled a plan with captain Honeywell who was to command the volunteer horse, which plan
                            was approved, proceeded on the evening of the 2d instant to put it in execution. I have the honor inclosed to present your
                            Excellency his report of the enterprise. The zeal, judgment, and good conduct exhibited by major Woodbridge on this
                            occasion, and the ardor shewn by captain Honeywell to promote the service with the aid of the volunteer horse, have
                            merited my warm acknowledgements, and, I flatter myself, will meet your Excellency’s approbation. I have the honor to be
                            With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                            W. Heath

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Crompond March 5th 1782

                            On the evening of the 2d Inst. I moved about 11 miles below Pines Bridge, (having little more than one
                                hundred Rank & File) in order to prevent the fatigue which would of course be sustained by the Troops, in
                                performing the march without any halt which was necessary to prosecute the plan concerted between Capt. Honeywel and
                                myself—At three o’clock in the afternoon of the 3d Capt. Honeywel passed us with eighty Volunteer horse, taking the
                                route on the sprain road; and halted near Williams’ bridge, at 11 in the evening.The Infantry with me marched down in
                                the Turkeyhoe road—crossed at Wards-bridge, & took a position at 12 o’clock, four miles
                                from Williams bridge, on the road leaving from the White Plains.
                            A small party of horse were sent amongst the enemys hutts to endeavour to draw them out towards our
                                Infantry; but after two ineffectual attempts wherein no inclination was shewn on the part of the enemy to follow
                                them—Captn Honeywel retired over the bridge, & lay till morning—A little after sunrise he fell in with their
                                hutts below No. 8 Redoubt with the whole of his horse—which proved a compleate surprise—& brought off 1 Lieut.
                                & 20 men prisoners with 12 of their horses—A number of their horse followed in his rear, on the road where our
                                Infantry were concealed. but some unfortunate accident, whether from information given by the Inhabitants—I cannot
                                determine, prevented their falling into the ambuscade—they came so near, that partisan Troops gave them a fire—We then began our retreat & amp were followed by the enemy four miles, with 30 or 40 horse, & nearly that number of foot. At turns they attempted to press upon our rear, the fire of which soon checked them—whilst I made it a point not to have our march retarded lest they should collect in force.The behaviour of the horse under Captn Honeywell, in taking the prisoners, and conveying them from their cantonments, would have done honor to discipline Troops.I am not a little obligated to the peculiar conduct of each individual of the continental Troops, both Officers & men, for the regularity of our retrogade march under the fire of the enemy, as well as to Capt. Honeywel & some of the horse—I have to regret the loss of two men killed & Mr Abraham Lykeman, Volunteer badly wounded.It appears that several of the enemy were killed near their cantonments—& that in our retreat a number were killed or wounded—being soonto fall from their horses.In settling the movement & position with Capn Honeywel it was judged requisite for the Infantry to go farther down than was mentioned in my letter—it was my intention to have the men press— & begin the retreat before daylight—After the attempt to lead the enemy out, had failed—Capn Honeywel judged they could be surprised by day light & more prisoners secured than in the dark—engaged to take share in the retreat—untill the whole were out of danger—finding no purpose could be brought to effect without such an attempt—I consented to
                                tarry—a strict observation was kept—that if any body of troops from another quarter, should move toward us, we might
                                immediately have left the ground.
                            Your order not being fully restricted to any particular position—I concluded it your wish that expediency
                                should point it out—The one to be chosen required such as would admit of Capn Honywel’s falling into the rear of the
                                enemy with the main body of his horse—in case they could be drawn from their quarters.
                            It seems by the prisoners accountsthe enemy had not the least notice of the movement of our Infantry—or
                                of any considerable body of horse—untill the morning of the 4th.
                            The alarm guns were fired at Odgen’s house, denoting a party, as our horse passed it—It is considerd as
                                unjustifiable in him to suffer it at his house—as he is a prisoner on parole. I am Sir with the most respect  your obdt hble servt

                                J. Woodbridge, Major,
                                commanding on the lines


Title: To George Washington from Philip John Schuyler, 6 March 1782
From: Schuyler, Philip John
To: Washington, George

                            My Dear Sir
                            Poughkeepsie March 6th 1782

                        The bearer of your Excellencys favor of the 6th Ult., covering copy of a letter of mine to Major Stark, had
                            conveyed it to Albany hence I only received it on the first Instant, and have thus been deprived some days of that
                            pleasure which your friendly approbation in this, as on all other occassions most affectingly affords me.
                        When the present session of the legislature opened, I found both houses pervaded, with the same spirit, which
                            dictated the violent resolutions of last fall, against Congress, for their Act of the 20th August in favor of Vermont, and
                            the house of assembly on the last ult., had actually proceeded so far, as to send up for concurrance a resolution,
                            declaring in very explicit, and very pointed terms, that the strength & supplies of the State, should be withheld,
                            until Congress revises said act, and should decide agreable to Equity, and carry their decission
                            with Effect; A determination so violent and so replete with variety of evil to this, and the other states, alarmed me so
                            exceedingly tho altho then still confined, with a severe fit of the Gout, I considered It incumbent on me, rather to risk
                            a relapse, than not be present at the deliberations of the senate, on so interesting a subject. It was
                            agetated on the 3d Instant and I have reason to be pleased that I attended. for altho the senate are
                            determined so far to acquiese with the assembly, as to animadvert on the precipitancy with which congress
                            decided and perhaps to transmit a protest on the occassion, they will nevertheless reject the resolutions of the other
                            house, and afford what they can to the common cause. In point of Money, this will be little, but the senate have adopted,
                            and a large committee of the assembly have approved, of a report which I offered for perfectly compleating the three
                            Regiments of this state in the following manner.
                        In the Autumn session an Act was passed to raise 1500 men for the defense of the frontiers to serve to the7:
                            January next to Obtain these men, all the taxables in the state are classed, and Each class must furnish a man, to
                            encourage the Classes to engage the men to Serve for three years or during the war, in the continental regiments Each
                            class is to have 500 acres of land and should there still be a deficiency, that is to be made up by the Governor by
                            detatchment out of the remainder of the 1500, to some with the regiments until the 1st day of January next.
                        On the fourth Instant I was advised, and from the best authority, that Your Excellency’s letter to Governor
                            Chittenden had been read, that those who were for adhering to their late Extended claims were instantly silenced and that
                            those claims were relinquished and delegates appointed. hence I see a period to the malignant prospect which this business
                            held to our view, and feel the satisfaction that you have also rendered your country this Essential
                            Service.
                        Please to make my best respects acceptable to your Lady, and be assured that I am with the most affectionate
                            regard & esteem Dr Sir Your Ex: most Obedt Servt

                            Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from Henry Clinton, 7 March 1782
From: Clinton, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            New York March 7th 1782

                        Agreeable to Your Desire I send You herewith the Description of the Vessels which I propose sending into the
                            Delaware and Chesapeake with Clothing and other Necessaries for the Prisoners of War; and I request that the Passports may
                            be made out & transmitted to me as soon as may be convenient.
                        In Consequence of the Meeting of our respective Commissioners having been so long delayed, many Circumstances
                            have arisen in the Interim, which have not only obliged me to change the Persons whom I at first intended to nominate for
                            that Business, but induce me to wish that it may be deferred a little longer. Therefore, as it will necessarily take some
                            Time for the Gentlemen I shall now nominate to possess themselves of the requisite Knowledge for transacting the Business
                            they will be charged with. I have to request your Consent to the Meeting of our Commissioners being put off to the 10th
                            day of April next. I am, Sir, Your most obedient Most humble Servant

                            H. Clinton

                            Description of the Vessels for which Passports are Requested to carry Clothing, Necessaries,
                                Refreshments &c. for the British & German Prisoners.
                            For the Delaware.
                            The Brig Dolphin, about 147 Tons Burthen, Chas Cook Master, & Eight Seamen.
                            The Brig Duncan, about 125 Tons Burthen, Jeremiah Pecker Master, & Six Seamen.
                            Mr John Tailyour to go in One of the above Vessels, having Charge of the Refreshments &
                                Necessaries for the Officers and Men at Lancaster &c.
                            For the Chesapeak.
                            The Sloop Leith, about 79 Tons Burthen, Edward Ross Master & five Seamen.The Sloop Mary, abt 122 Tons Burthen, Thomas Smith Master & Seven Men.
                            One Subaltern, or Quarter Master, and Two Non-Commissioned Officers to go in each of the above
                            Vessels.


Title: From George Washington to David Forman, 7 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

                            Dear Sir
                            Philadelphia March 7th 1782

                        Your favor of the 5th Inst. has just come to hand.
                        Exclusive of the objection I have, to the establishment of a precedent, for granting Passports to Citizens,
                            without the interference of the Civil Authority of the States to which they belong, I think, the circumstance of my
                            deviating from a fixed Rule, might in the present instance, be an occasion of suspicion to the Enemy & frustrate
                            the ends you have in view—I cannot therefore consider it adviseable or consistent with the line of conduct I have adopted,
                            to grant the Passport in question, but I have written to Governor Livingston on the subject, and doubt not, if there are
                            no particular reasons of policy operating against it, that the business will now be put in an easy & proper train
                            of execution. I am Dear Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to Antoine Félix Wuibert de Mézières, 7 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Wuibert de Mézières, Antoine Félix

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Philadelphia March 7th 1782

                        You will be pleased to proceed to Fort Pitt, and take your further instructions from Brigadier General
                            Irvine, the Commandt at that Post. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servant.


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 8 March 1782
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Trenton 8 March 1782

                        I have received your Excellency’s Favour of yesterday, and in consequence of it I forwarded to General Forman
                            by the same Express the passports requested.
                        My reason for not granting them on General Forman’s application, was the great abuse which I am informed is
                            made of sending people into the Enemy’s lines under pretense of obtaining intelligence, especially at Newark &
                            Elizabeth Town, where the Whigs are made exceedingly unhappy upon the account; & very generally suspect that trade
                            is carried on with the Enemy under that pretext. Not that I would be understood to mean that I have the least suspicion
                            that a Gentleman of General Forman’s character is capable of abusing the confidence your Excellency reposes in him. I am
                            well satisfied of the contrary. But in public transactions I always chuse to have the highest evidence that the nature of
                            the thing is capable of: and as the reason assigned for desiring the paper was of a military nature, I referred him to your
                            Excellency at least as to one of the parties, promising him to give none to the others if you should chuse it in
                            preference to your own. From your Excellencys observation that the ostensible reason for their going is of a civil nature,
                            I see the propriety of my granting them both, to which I did not before advert.
                        I have it to lament that the recruiting business, by all that I can learn, goes on very slowly with us but it
                            is not in my power to accelerate it. With the greatest respect I have the honour to be Your Excellencys most obedient
                            & very humble Servant

                            Wil: Livingston


Title: To George Washington from Elias Dayton, 9 March 1782
From: Dayton, Elias
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Chatham March 9th 1782

                        Last night I received the enclosed and as it contains intelligence that may be of consequence to the states,
                            I have taken the liberty of forwarding it to your Excellency by the first opportunity.
                        I am informed that the British are actually at work in erecting lines from North to East River, particulars
                            of which I shall have soon, a number of ships are said to have just arrived at Sandy Hook. I hope very soon to learn where
                            they are from. I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Hbl. Servant

                            Elias Dayton


Title: General Orders, 10 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Philadelphia Sunday. March. 10. 82.

                        The Baron de Steuben will inspect the Guards at Nine oClock on Wednesday next, and the Rhode Island Regiment
                            at eleven o Clock on the same day.NB. No General orders were issued from the above date untill the 4th of April. 1782.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Dearborn, 10 March 1782
From: Dearborn, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Exeter March 10th 1782

                        I had the honor of receiving your Excellencies dispatches of the 31st of Janury to this State respecting the
                            recruiting service inclosed in a letter from the Secretery of War addressed to me. The packet addressed to the Honbe
                            President Weare I immediately sent to him. unfortunate for this State, at the last session of the Legislator no measures
                            ware taken for compleating this States quota of men, nor any measures taken to encourage the recruiting service, and as
                            nothing can be done respecting the matter until the next session of the Legislative body (which will be the 15th Inst.) I
                            fear it will be too late (even altho the State should make greater exertions then I fear they will) to git the men into
                            the field in season to answer such purposes as your Excellency may expect; but what I consider as a much greater
                            misfortune is, that two many of our men in power appear to dispair of being able to rais either men or money to any
                            considerable amount; and therefore will not (I fear) take the matter up with such spirit as I could wish.
                        I shall make use of what little influence I have, and shall spare no time or pains in urging a compliance
                            with the requisition of Congress and the desire of your Excellency and shall do my self the honor to inform your
                            Excellency as early as possible of my success.
                        what ever may be done by this State in the recruiting way, I am fully convinced that Mr Morris can receive
                            but very little assistence from it in supplies this year unless he can take specifick articles. There is not money in the State nor any means for procuring it soon; but the men I am sure can be procured
                            (altho late) if preparations are made. I have the honor to be with the most sincere respect Your Excellencies most Obedt
                            Hume Servt

                            Henry Dearborn
                            Lt Colo.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Harrison, Sr., 10 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Harrison, Benjamin, Sr.

                            Dear Sir
                            Philadelphia 10th March 1782

                        I sincerely sympathize with you in the arduos task imposed upon you as first Magistrate of the State of
                            Virginia, in consequence of the present distressed and embarrassed situation of affairs; which you so pathetically
                            describe in your Letter of the 15th of Feby. For it is well known from experience, that in times of War & public
                            Calamity, whoever is engaged in the management of public affairs must share largely in the perplexities and troubles of
                            them, but at the same time it must be rememberd, besides the gratification which results from a consciousness of having
                            done our duty faithfully, that to struggle nobly with misfortunes, to combat difficulties with intrepedity, &
                            finally to surmount the obstacles which opposed us, are stronger proofs of merit, and give a fairer title to reputation,
                            than the brightest scenes of tranquility, or the sunshine of prosperity could ever have afforded.
                        By my Letter of the 28th Feby you will see that measures were in agitation for supplying the Staff
                            Departments at the Southward. The Clothier General (out of our little Stock) will send on three or four hundred Suits of
                            Cloathing to the care of the Officers superintending the Recruiting Service, for the Recruits that may be raised. Such
                            other provision as our circumstances will admit, and the Service may require, will I have no doubt be made in such manner,
                            as to prove that no designed system of partiallity could have influenced Congress or the Ministers of the great
                            Departments in any of their Arrangements.
                        I have the honor to inclose to your Excellency the Copy of a Letter of this date from General Knox—if the
                            State will agree to let the Public have the Cannon or the loan of them as suggested in Genl Knoxs Letter. I shall be glad
                            to be advised of it by the earliest conveyance that measures may be taken without loss of time for putting them in a
                            condition for service before the opening of the Campaign. It is unnecessary, I am persuaded, to observe as an inducement
                            for granting the use of them to the public, that similar applications to some of the Eastern States for Iron Ordnance
                            Powder &c. last Campaign were attended with success. with the highest Sentiments of esteem and respect I am Dear
                            Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 10 March 1782
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             Philadelphia 10th March 1782.

                        By a letter from Colonel DAboville commanding the french Artillery in Virginia it appears there have been
                            lately discovered in that State 14 heavy battering brass cannon, which are indisputably the property of that State. These
                            cannon have no carriages and I presume little or no proper ammunition & few or no implements.
                        In their present, or indeed in a perfect state, it would be difficult to conceive, of what use they could be
                            to the State of Virginia, as it would require great exertion to equip & a raft appartus to move them.
                        But although these cannon are in a manner useless to an individual State they would be highly serviceable to
                            the United States which are in greater want of a battering train especially with the prospects in view for the operations
                            of next summer. I would therefore request, your Excellency to take such steps, as you may think will most probably obtain
                            them. In my opinion we could spare some small arms, or field pieces, in exchange for them which would be much more
                            convenient for the State of Virginia. But as a negociation of the particulars of the exchange would take up much time,
                            which would render the Cannon of no service in the ensuing campaign as they want to be new mounted, I take the liberty to
                            suggest the borrowing them of the State, or purchasing them, and the price and species of payment to be hereafter settled
                            by the secretary at War. But the Cannon to be immediately transported to the head of Elk, in order to be forwarded to this
                            city, or Burlington to have carriages prepared for them. The season is so advanced, that a moments time cannot be afforded
                            to be lost, if we can get them in possession. I have the honor to be sir With great Respect Your Humble Servant

                            H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Martin, 10 March 1782
From: Martin, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Greenway Court March 10th 1782

                        Having no certain Channel of conveying the news of his Lordships death to England, but by the assistance of
                            your Excellency, I have taken the liberty of sending the enclos’d, your friendly aid will be gratefully acknowledg’d by
                            Sir Your Excellencys most Obt and most Humle Servt

                            B. Martin


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 10 March 1782
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Williamsburgh March the 10th 1782.

                        The Chevalier DuBouchet is returned from New york with 48 men of the West indies Brigade taken on the
                            Bonnetta. they are in a most miserable Situation both as to cloathing and to their health, Six are dead of the Scurvy, six
                            more were too ill to be transported, that compleats the number of 60, who were taken. as We had sent 104. invalids from
                            Glocester, the English commissary of prisoners has acknowledged himself our debtor for 54, who are not exchanged and who
                            are on parole. I send to your Excellency the nominative Lists of the British Soldiers exchanged against those of the
                            Bonnetta, and of those who remain on parole. Mr Clinton writes me that he would readily have agreed to the exchange
                            proposed by your Excellency of Brigadier General Moultrie against Lord Rawdon, if the exchange of the first had not been
                            already effectuated, but he has yet Brigadier general Scot whom he offers for Lord Rawdon. It will be as your Excellency
                            chuses, either to exchange him or to keep Lord Rawdon’s parole for another occasion.
                        I send to your Excellency two packetts forwarded me by Lieutenant Governor Jamieson and which I believe are
                            from Mr Jefferson. I wait for news from France and St Kitt’s with the greatest impatience. I am with Respect and personal
                            attachment Sir Your Excellency’s Most obedient & humble Servant

                            le cCte de Rochambeau


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 11 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry,Morris, Gouverneur

                             11 March 1782

                        Whereas a proposition was made by me on the 6th day of December last to General Sir Henry Clinton to the
                            following effect "That Commissioners mutually appointed should meet at such time and place as might thereafter be agreed
                            upon for the purposes of obviating all difficulties in exchanges—for liquidating the expenses of maintaining prisoners
                            and for making solid arrangements for providing for them in future" which proposition was acceded to as will appear by
                            letters from him the said General Sir Henry Clinton bearing date the 2d and 23rd of January last.
                        In Order to carry the said proposition into effect and to make the most liberal, permanent and extensive
                            provision for the exchange release and accommodation not only of prisoners of War but of Citizens who by the fortune of
                            War may fall into the Hands of either party.
                        You Brigadier General Henry Knox and Governeur Morris Esqr. are hereby appointed and authorized to meet
                            such Commissioners as shall come duly authorized on the part of His Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton at Elizabeth Town
                            in the State of New Jersey on Friday the 15th day of this Month or at any other time and place afterwards to which it may
                            be thought proper to adjourn—with them to treat—confer—determine and conclude upon a Cartel or Cartels either general
                            or special Stipulating for the subsistence—safe keeping—exchanging—liberating and better treating of all land
                            prisoners of War in such manner and on such terms as you may judge expedient and beneficial to the United States: to take
                            such measures for the liberation of Citizens who have not been captured in Arms as may seem
                            expedient, or to negotiate any separate treaty concerning such Citizens for the mutual prevention of any future Captures—Provided such Cartel—Cartels and agreement establish Rules for the similar treatment of Prisoners of War and Citizens
                            captured by either power in all cases whatever—You are likewise authorised and empowered to liquidate and settle all past
                            accounts respecting the maintainance and support of Prisoners of War or of the Prisoners under the Convention of Saratogaand whereas numberless inconveniencies and distresses have mutually arisen and happened for want of some permanent
                            establishment for subsisting—safe keeping and exchanging Marine Prisoners, I have by letter of the 26th of February last
                            proposed to His Excellency Robert Digby Esqr., at present commanding His Britannic Majesty’s ships of War upon the
                            American Station, to send Commissioners at the time and to the place before mentioned properly authorised and empowered to
                            treat, confer, determine and conclude upon a Cartel for the exchange and accommodation of all persons in the Naval line—Should therefore Commissioners come properly authorized and empowered by him the said Robert Digby Esqr. or other senior
                            Officer commanding His Britannic Majestys ships of War upon the American Station, you are authorized and empowered to
                            treat, confer, determine and conclude upon, with them, a Cartel or Agreement either general or special for the subsisting—safe keeping—and exchanging all Marine Prisoners of War—provided such Cartels or Agreements establish Rules for the
                            similar treatment of marine Prisoners captured by either power in all cases whatever.
                        For all which this shall be your Warrant and your engagements being mutually interchanged shall be ratified
                            and confirmed by me. Given under my hand and seal at Philada this 11th day of March 1782.

                            G. W.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 11 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry,Morris, Gouverneur

                            Gentlemen
                            Philadelphia, March 11, 1782

                        The powers of equal date herewith authorise you to proceed to Elizabeth Town in the State of New Jersey in
                            order to meet Commissioners on the part of the enemy on Friday the 15th inst. for the purposes in the powers fully
                            recited.
                        You will consider the settlement of accounts, for the subsistence of Prisoners of all descriptions from the
                            commencement of the War, to —obtaining payment or security for the
                            payment of the large Balance which it is presumed was due to the United States at that period, and establishing some
                            certain arrangements or the regular payment of the subsistence of Prisoners from that time forward as the principal
                            objects of your Commission.
                        From the want of an appointment of a Commissary of Prisoners, untill some time after the commencement of the
                            War from the variety of hands to which the charge of prisoners was committed, and from the little attention which was for
                            a long time paid to the Sums expended for their support, I fear, it will be difficult for you to collect the materials
                            necessary to form an account, sufficiently accurate to satisfy yourselves, or to gain credit with the Commissioners on the
                            part of the enemy—And it is also probable, that the accounts, which will be produced by them, will be alike subject to
                            many objections for want of proper Vouchers and other causes—You are therefore at liberty, if you find no probability of
                            being able to make a regular settlement, to compound the matter, by fixing upon such a sum as shall appear to you
                            reasonable, which sum shall, upon payment, be looked upon as a full and final discharge of all demands on the part of the
                            U.S. from the commencement of the War to the time which you shall specify. You are then, in order to prevent all future
                            disputes, to determine, of what a Ration for the support of a Prisoner of War shall mutually consist—the value of that
                            Ration not only in whole but in its component parts—what Vouchers shall be esteemed mutually valid, and obtain and give
                            proper assurances for the regular monthly, quarter &c. payment of the balances as they may respectively become
                            due.
                        Before you proceed to the negociation of exchanges, you will pay due regard to the Resolve of Congress of the
                            23d of February last (with Copy of which you are furnished) which authorizes the exchange of Lieut. General Earl
                            Cornwallis only, upon certain conditions therein specified. By the word liberated, in the
                            Resolve referred to, it is not to be understood, that Mr Laurens is to be given up without any equivalent; At what the
                            enemy will rate him is uncertain. Congress once offered a Lieutenant General for him, and if the same should be demanded
                            now and insisted upon, you are at liberty to comply—If circumstances should render the exchange of Lord Cornwallis
                            impracticable, the respective Commissaries of prisoners may proceed to the exchange of other Officers; and if the enemy
                            should persist in thier resolution of detaining a certain number of our Officers of Rank as a counter security to our
                            detention of Lord Cornwallis, it may be submitted to, upon the following principle, that it will be better for four or
                            five Gentlemen (the number who will be involved) to remain in Captivity, than the whole; amounting to considerably above
                            one hundred.
                        In compliance with a Resolve of Congress of the 20th of Decemr last (Copy of which and some papers relating
                            to it you have herewith) you will enter into a discussion with the British Commissioners upon the Powers and conduct of
                            the Board of Directors to the associated Loyalists in New York, and you will endeavour to devise some means for the
                            prevention of that kind of depredation which is complained of. On this subject you will do nothing conclusive, but report
                            to me the substance of the measures which may have seemed to the British Commissioners and yourselves most likely to
                            answer the end.
                        I recommend to your particular attention the case of one Summers a native of Pennsylvania taken in 1778 and
                            yet detained upon Long Island notwithstanding every reasonable offer has been made to procure his exchange; the Commy of
                            Prisoners can inform you fully of his situation and circumstances.
                        Should you enter into either a general or special Cartel you will endeavour to stipulate that, in future,
                            Citizens not in Arms shall not be considered as subjects of Capture, but in particular cases; such as for instance, for
                            Guides; for intelligence, and such like purposes; that they shall be well treated and discharged after the ends for which
                            they were captured are answered.
                        Should the Admiral accede to my proposition of sending Commissioners to meet you on the subject of the
                            treatment and exchange of Marine prisoners—you will endeavour in the first place to obtain a change in the mode of
                            keeping our seamen confined. The daily complaints of the miseries incident to confinement on board prison ships will
                            authorise you to remonstrate warmly on that Head and to insist upon an alteration of conduct. In respect to the support
                            and mode of payment for the subsistence of seamen you will be guided by the instruction relating to the Rations of
                            Soldiers.
                        You are acquainted with the difficulties under which labor as to the means of procuring the exchange of the
                            American seamen who fall into the hands of the enemy—It but rarely happens that those captured by private Vessels of War
                            are given up to the Continental Commissaries—some are taken into our service, many escape thro’ negligence, and therefore
                            it is that the Balance of Marine prisoners has been generally greatly against us. The mode proposed by Admiral Digby, of
                            giving up Land prisoners for seamen, is altogether inadmissible—It would prove a constant source of reinforcement to the
                            enemy—Under present circumstances, I do not see that you can come to any final determination upon the mode of exchanging
                            or liberating seamen—should Commissioners meet you on that subject, you will, in conjunction with them, form a plan which
                            may be deemed mutually equitable and convenient and report upon it.
                        You have herewith the Copies of the letters which have passed between the British Genl and Admiral and myself
                            upon the subject of your Commission. The superintendant of Finance will furnish you with materials for stating our Claims
                            for subsistence of prisoners so far as he has been able to obtain them—and the Commissary of Prisoners will furnish you
                            with any Official papers which may be in his possession and which may be found necessary to the accomplishment of a
                            general or special Cartel.
                        Since the above I have been furnished by Congress with a number of representations respecting the treatment
                            of our Marine prisoners. I have thought it proper to put them into your hands, that you may make the necessary use of
                            them.


Title: To George Washington from James Lovell, 11 March 1782
From: Lovell, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Boston March 11 1782

                        A very high Degree of Jealousy possesses the Breast of my Correspondent concerning the Insincerity of some of
                            the Cabinet Council of Vermont in their present Conduct towards Congress: This Jealousy, manifest in every Conversation
                            which I have had with him here should not however make me neglect to convey to your Excellency such Information as the
                            inclosed, which, if corroborated by other Circumstances within  knowledge, will doubtless affect
                            some of your Arrangements for the ensuing Campaign in which and through Life I wish Prosperity and Honour may attend your
                            Excellencys and am, Sir, your most humble Servant

                            James Lovell

                     Enclosure

                                Sr
                                Newbury March 7th 1782

                            You may remember that I mentioned the Case of Capt. Thomas Johnson to you, the necessity of his being
                                Exchanged in order to Prove the Treasonable Conduct of a number in Vermont, &c. I told you Johnson had the
                                confidence of the Enemy in Canada and knew what had been transacted between them and Vermont. I am still further
                                convinced, as Capt. Johnson has lately recived a letter from Canada and an answer Demanded which he complied with
                                other ways he Supposed his Intent to make Discovery to us would be susspected by the Enemy, he Shew to a friend of the
                                United States what he recived from and Sent to Canada, which was from the Enemy an enquiry whether an Expedition to
                                Canada was Intended by us or any preparation therefor, how the people Stood as to a Union with them in Canada,
                                Informing they Intended an Expedition early to Albany &c. Capt. Johnsons return was that he heard nothing of
                                an Expedition by us to Canada, and that Affairs went on well in Vermont, in about a month doubtless other letters from
                                Genll Haldeman will be Sent to Capt. Johnson, all letters and Copies will be kept, Capt. Johnson wishes his Exchange
                                may Soon take place, his situation is really criticall, for without Genll Washingtons particular Directions he is
                                Expossed to the Severest punnishment if he dos not Corrisspond the Enemy will Susspect him and he be Exposed to be
                                sailed to Canada, by which we Shall loose his Evidence in Matters of the greatest Importance, I Send you this as no
                                Private Corrispondance with the Enemy is admissable it is come to my knowledge and I wish to convey the same to the
                                Commander in Chief, which I Dare not attempt by Publick part I wish any way left it may be Transmited to his Excelency
                                Genll Washington the above anr arrived to me yesterday, & must leave the matter to your Direction, and am Sr
                                your most obedient Humble Servant

                                Jacob Bayley


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 12 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Philada 12th March 1782

                        I have recd your several letters of the 23d 27th and 28th ulto and 5th and 6th instants.
                        I approve of your having sent a detachment of possess the Huts of the Connecticut State Troops, untill a Body
                            of Militia could be again assembled for that purpose.
                        I am glad to hear that the greater part of the Stores have been removed from Claverack, and I will see that
                            means are provided to employ with General Schuylers promise of pay to the Militia who guarded them.
                        Supposing that all possible care have been taken to make an equitable arrangement of the Subalterns of the
                            Massachusetts line, I approve of it, and desire it may be published accordingly.
                        General Pattersons information restricting the Indian Chief, is yet so vague, that there is no coming to any
                            determination upon it. He may desire his Friend to prosecute the enquiry, and if he finds there are good grounds to
                            believe the Indian sincere, measures may be taken to bring him over.
                        I perceive you had not, upon the 27th ult., received Mr Morris’s letter explaining the reason of the
                            Contractor’s charging a seeming advanced price upon the officers extra Ration of Rum. But as you must have gotten it
                            since, I shall say no more upon that subject. I cannot conceive how any difficulty should arise upon the prices of the
                            other Articles, which are expressly specified in the Contract. Lord Stirling appears not to have had a Copy before him, as
                            the prices, at which he says the Articles were to have been furnished, do not agree with those stipulated in the Contract,
                            extracts from which I inclose. The Officer is upon the safe side—He draws his Rations, and if the Contractor charges more
                            than he is intitled to do by his agreement, the appeal will go to the Superintendant of Finance, who will oblige him to do
                            justice.
                        Those Artificers who, by the terms of their engagements, are to have an addition to the common Ration, must
                            undoubtedly draw it; and it will lay with the commanding General to order an addition to Fatigue Men or to those upon
                            extra duty when he sees occasion.
                        I am pleased to hear of the several partizan strokes upon the enemy’s light Corps. It is a spirit which I
                            would wish to see encouraged. You will be good enough to present my thanks to the Officers concerned. I have had
                            information similar to Capt. Prays tho’ other channels, and have communicated that and the several matters contained in
                            your last letters to Congress. I am with great Esteem Dear Sir Yr most obt and hble servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 12 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

                            Sir
                            Philada 12th March 1782.

                        Major Barber, who now holds a Commission in the Line of the Army at large, informs me that if the State of
                            New Jersey, to which he belongs, will grant him the Commission of Captain in one of their Regiments, he can prevail upon
                            Captain Anderson to resign in his favor, and that he can obtain the consent of all the Captain’s junior to Capt. Anderson
                            to his being admitted into his place—If Major Barber can affect the latter, I would take the liberty of warmly
                            recommending the measure, because permanent provision will be made for a very meritorious Officer for whom it will be
                            difficult otherwise to find employ—Should your Excellency’s influence with the Legislature be necessary to forward this
                            matter, you will oblige me by using it upon the occasion. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 12 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

                            My dear Sir,
                            Phila March 12th 82

                        The fair hand to whom your letter of the 20th of Jany was committed presented it safe, & as you
                            rightly observd—the value of it was enhanced by it.
                        Good Laws—ample means—& sufficient powers—may render the birth of your Intendant a public benefit;
                            and from the spirit of your people I hope these are provided—without them the appointment must
                            be nugatory—Never, since the commencement of the present Revolution, has there been, in my judgment, a period when
                            vigorous measures were more consonant with sound policy than the present. The speech of the British King, & the
                            addresses of the Lords & Commons are evincive proofs to my mind of two things, namely their wishes to prosecute
                            the American War—and their fears of the consequences—My opinion therefore of the matter is that the Minister will obtain
                            supplies for the current year—prepare vigorously for another Campaign, & then prosecute the War or treat of Peace
                            as circumstances and fortuitous events may justify—& that nothing will contribute more to the first than a relaxation
                            or apparent supiness, on the part of these states. The debates upon the address evidently prove what I have here advanced
                            to be true. For these addresses, as explained, are meant to answer any purpose the Ministers may have in view—What madness
                            then can be greater, or policy and oeconomy worse, than to let the enemy again rise upon our folly & want of
                            exertion? Shall we not be justly chargeable for all the blood & treasure which shall be wasted in a lingering War
                            procrastinated by the false expectation of Peace, or timid measures for the prosecution of it? surely we shall, &
                            much is it to be lamented that our endeavors do not at all times accord with our wishes—each State is anxious to see the
                            end of our Warfare accomplished, but shrinks when it is called upon for the means! and either withholds them altogether or
                            grants them in such away as to defeat the end. such, It is to be feared, will be the case in many instances respecting
                            the requisitions of Men & Money. I have the pleasure however to inform you that the Assembly of this State—now
                            sitting, have passed their supply Bill without a dissenting voice— and this a laudable spirit seems to pervade all the
                            Members of that body but I fear notwithstanding, they will be deficient of their quota of Men. It is idle at this late
                            period of the War, when enthusiasm is cooled if not done away. When the minds of that class of Men who are proper subjects
                            for soldiers are poisoned by the high bounties which have been given—& the knowledge of the distresses of the
                            Army so generally diffused through every State to suppose that our Battalions can be compleated by voluntary enlistment—The attempt is vain and we are only deceiving ourselves & injuring the Cause by making the experiment. There is no
                            other effectual method to get Men suddenly, but that of classing the People & polling
                            each class to furnish a Regt—here every Man is interested—every Man becomes a recruiting Officer. If our necessity for
                            Men did not press—I should prefer the mode of voluntary enlistment to all others to obtain them—as it does, I am sure it
                            will not answer. & that the Season for enterprise will be upon us long e’re we are ready for the Field.
                        The anxious state of suspence in which we have been for some time & still remn—respectg the Naval
                            engagement in the West Indies and attempt upon Brimstone hill in the Isld of St Kitts, is disagreeable beyond description—the Issue of these must be very interestg and may give a very unfavourable turn to affairs in this Quarter & to
                            America in its consequences. With much sincerity & Affiction I am Yrs

                            Go. Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Noble Cumming, 13 March 1782
From: Cumming, John Noble
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Jersey Camp 13th March 1782

                        We have just received Information that an agreement has been made between Major Barber, a retired officer,
                            and Captn Anderson of the first Jersey Regiment, to Exchange the latters Commisn for the former at half
                            pay Which Agreement has been reported to your Excellency, as having met with the Consent and Approbation of all the
                            Officers of the Jersey Line concerned, We beg leave to inform your Excellency that we, the Officers of the Second
                            Regiment, feel ourselves Injured by the above mentioned Exchange as we have neither agreed to it or ever been Consulted
                            upon it, and we doubt not but that Justice which ever has dignified your Charracter, will induce your Excellency to
                            prevent an Exchange, which will greatly injure your very Obedt Servants

                            J.N. Cumming Lt Colo.
                            Nath. Bowman Capt.
                            W. Helms Capt.
                            Abm Appleton Lieut.
                            Saml Shute Lt
                            Cyrus DHart Capt.
                            Jno. Peck, Lt
                            A. Weyman Capt.
                            Benjn Osmun Lieut.
                            William Shute Ensn
                            James D. Camp Ensign
                            Peter Faulkner Ensn
                        Alamarin Brooks Enzn Francis Luse EnsignJos. Busk LiutJacob Hyord EnsnJere. Ballard CaptnDireck Land Lieut Lt.Sam. Reading Capt.Eamand D: Thomas Lieut.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Burke, 14 March 1782
From: Burke, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            State of North Carolina Mch 14th 1782

                        Your Letter of 22d of January last has reached me. it shall be laid before the Legislature as soon as they
                            meet, and I doubt not they will give it all the weight which your distinguished Character, and unremitting Zeal for the
                            public Welfare merit. I have the honor to be your Excellency’s very obdt St

                            Tho. Burke


Title: From George Washington to Richard Butler, 14 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Butler, Richard

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters. Philadelphia March 14th 1782

                        I have duly received your favor of the 4th, and also, (in the absence of General Irwin) the Letter of the same
                            date addressed to him.
                        I am sorry to hear the success of the recruiting service is not so great, as could be wished or reasonably
                            expected—I have reiterated the direction before given to Col. Humpton, to have the recruits,   as soon as may be assembled at
                            Carlisle, and I am informed there will be two Hundred Suits of Cloaths, with an equal number of Arms & accoutrements,
                            ready to be forwarded to the same place in a few days; Instructions are also given to the Quarter Mastr Genl to have
                            Carriages & Camp Equipage provided for the Detachment as soon as may be necessary for the movement; he will likewise
                            make Arrangements with Col. Carrington the Depy Quarter Mastr for the Southern Army (now in this Town) for the
                            accommodation of the Troops in the march.
                        I wish every exertion may be made to augment the detachment to the greatest possible number, & to put it
                            upon the most respectable footing. But from a consideration of the present circumstances, I would not have the Troops move
                            untill you receive further Orders, in the mean time, nothing should retard the preparations, & or prevent their being held
                            in the most perfect state of readiness for a Movement. I am with great regard Sir &c.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Cole, 14 March 1782
From: Cole, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Barracks March 14th 1782

                        It would be doing violence to my feelings in any other circumstances that those I am in at present, at this
                            period of the War, but more particularly at this season of the Year to solicit a discharge: but a combination of
                            difficulties has rendered it not only necessary but indispensable.
                        In the last Arrangement of the Army I requested leave to retire & had assurances of permission from
                            Colonel Greene, & for that reason principally I did not march with the Regiment in December 1780—but continued in
                            the State—The Arrangement was begun at Rhode Island, but not completed untill the 10th of February following, which was a
                            considerable time after Colonel Greene’s arrival in the Highlands—In this Interval I rested perfectly assured of my
                            derangement & had prepared my mind & habit for a return to civil life.
                        After the Colonel’s departure from the State for some reason unknown to me, he deranged another Captain, and
                            continued me—When I gained information of this matter I immediately by Letter requested Colonel Greene to obtain my
                            Discharge or resignation—which he endeavoured in every Letter to dissuade me from, but notwithstanding continued to
                            flatter me with the hopes of a discharge, until his death.
                        When the command of the Regiment devolved on Colonel Olney I made the same requisition to him but was
                            informed the settlement of my Accounts (which palpably stood fair & exonerated me; I having been Pay Master to
                            Colonel Greene’s Regiment) was necessary previous to the acceptance of resignation and in August received your Orders;
                            thro’ him to join the Regiment immediately, which I did in the same Month & while on the March for Virginia.
                        At that season I could not repeat my request—And have continued constantly with the Regiment since, and
                            hitherto on the particular request of Major Olney on account of the scarcity of Officers to do duty.
                        Superadded to these considerations the late loss of my Father in law at Sea—His Affairs in an unsettled
                            situation—His leaving very considerable effects in the French West Indies & my Wife his only Child &
                            Heiress render all other reasons for a resignation unnecessary.
                        I will just intimate that no Auditor in behalf of the Public will take on him the Settlement of my Accounts
                            at this time & that there is a particular Mode pointed out by a resolution of Congress, but no person as yet
                            appointed in pursuance of it for the purpose.
                        I therefore earnestly request your Excellency to accept this my resignation & grant my discharge from
                            Service. I am Your Excellency’s Humble & most Obedient Servant

                            Thos. Cole Capt.
                            R.I. Regt