Title: To George Washington from James Duane, 12 October 1782
From: Duane, James
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,
                     Philadelphia 12th October 1782.

                  It was not till the 10th that I had the Honour of your Excellency’s favour of the 1st Instant; Mr Arnold the bearer having been several days in Town before he delivered it.  Sincerely attached to your Excellency by every Motive which can command Affection and Esteem, the Reflections which introduce your Enquiry on Huddy’s Case give me great Concern.  Whatever may have been the Indecision of the Sovereign Power of these States on Points in which their Commander in Chief hath at any time asked for Direction; a delay never has been tincturd with Indifference or Disrespect towards him, and much less with a Desire to with hold any necessary Support.  The unreserved Confidence reposed in his military Talents and personal Virtues, can want no Proof while the Journals of Congress, or a Transcript of the Powers which he possesses, remain in Existence.
                  I think in a former Correspondence I had occasion to observe on the Dilatoriness incident to a popular Government, like ours, composed of thirty or forty Members from various parts of an extensive Continent.  In Cases of Intricacy and more especially where the Passions are engaged Tardiness is unavoidable; and without questioning a Rectitude of Intention, or the Want of Attachment to the Person interested in Dispatch, the Cause may be found in human nature.  This I most sincerely believe to be a Key to the Case under Consideration.
                  Shortly after the Receipt of the Proceedings of a british Court martial on the murder of Capt. Huddy they were referred to a Committee.  To encrease their Embarrasment the same Committee were also charged with the Complaints respecting the Execution of Col. Haynes, and the Infringement of the Cartell made by Authority of General Greene and Lord Cornwallis for the Southern Department.
                  I know not whether your Excellency is fully apprized of the Subject of the last Referrence.  General Greene describes it as “a Dispute leading to Consequences which might affect other Departments, and which involves questions respecting Allegiance, the Obligation of Subjects, and the Rights of Punishment; and which had—it might be added—enkindled an uncommon Degree of Resentment and even Rage, in every Man acquainted with the amiable Character which Col. Haines had sustained.
                  The Murder of Capt. Huddy with the subsequent Circumstances your Excellency Justly ranks among the difficult intricate and perplexing Cases which have arisen in the Course of your illustrious Command.
                  It seemd necessary to premise these particulars to make way for a precise and candid Answer to your Excellency’s Enquiry.
                  It is, Sir, from the Difficulty and Perplexity of these two Cases; from the Influence they may have on our national Character; from the Impressions they have made on the Minds of the publick and of Individuals; from the Peremptoriness of our past Menaces: from the Change of the British Cabinet and of the Temper of the Brith Nation: from the pacific Assurances of their General; from their evident Despair of Advantage from Coertion or Cruelty: from their withdrawing the Savages, from the Appearances of Evacuation; and from the Prospect of Peace; It is from these Considerations combined that a difference of Sentiment which arose in Congress on the first Communication of the two Cases continues; and which has prevailed in this Committee not only after frequent and deliberate Discussions: but after an Addition of Members to give Room for greater Unanimity.  To this Moment the Fate of the Questions rests with the Chairman who if not undetermined seems to be unwilling that Subjects of such Magnitude shoud receive the Impression of a Report from his single Voice.
                  I beg your Excellency to believe that no opinion has been given by Congress or their Committee that "Policy forbids a Decision on Huddy’s Case."  Had such a Sentiment prevailed, it coud not, it ought not, to have been concealed from you a Moment.  Indeed it has been observed, that by the studied Delays of the Enemy, while they so long trifled with your Excellency’s humanity, and the Feelings not to say the Life of the devoted Victim, this great national affair receiv’d it’s principal Embarrasment; and that it might therefore be justifiable to regulate our Conduct by maxims of Caution: and by waiting for the Effects of an impending Retaliation; of the address of the british Commons for altering the Conduct of the War, and of the pacific assurances of Sir Guy Carleton; And with respect to Col. Haines, by the Event of the Preparations for relinquishing Charles Town; But whatever Force there may be in these Remarks they were never maturd into a Resolution; nor do I know that they made any considerable Impression.
                  My own Opinion is decided and I wish it neither to be concealed nor suspended.
                  By the modern Practice of War, which is become a part of the Law of Nations, qualified and mitigated Hostilities are only allowed to be fair and honorable—All Commonwealths are considered as the natural Avengers of this Law, because human nature is honord by it’s Institution and interested in it’s Observation.  Hence when the hand of Ferocity and Barbarism is employed to scourge Mankind, it is lawful to repress these Extremes and Desolations of War by Acts of Retaliation.
                  There is however a manifest distinction between Retaliation and Vengeance.  Vengeance can only fall upon the Guilty: but Retaliation which must always flow from a rational Hope to stop the wanton Effusion of human blood, or repress the Extremes of War, may reach even the Life of the innocent; because Justified by the Motive it assumes the Office of Humanity.  On these Principles I have formed my Judgement, in a firm Perswasion of the Truth of the following facts that if the british Monarch is not seriously inclined to peace he at least despairs of Success by Coertion or Cruelty, that a mitigated War is the Enemy’s true policy, that they have restraind the Incursions of their Savages: that their Generals have given the strongest Assurances that if the War is continued it shall be conducted on their part with Humanity; that the Character of the united States becomes every day more respectable in the Eyes of Europe and of consequence more formidable to our Enemies: that the british House of Commons the nation at large and part of it’s ministry are tired of a ruinous War and eager, on any Terms, to regain the Commerce and Friendship of America.  These Sir, are the Grounds from which I infer the utter Improbability that the Enemy in the furthest Progress of the War will ever recur again to the Barbarism and Extremes of which they have found the Impotency, and feel the Disgrace.  It follows that it is not necessary and therefore not Justifiable to take away the Life of Capt. Asgil.  I know there are some who yielding to the Impulse of Just Indignation at the enormous Cruelties of the Enemy, wish for Victims to the Manes of our Murderd Friends.  There are others who think that our national Glory will be Tarnished by a Clemency inconsistent with former Menaces of Retaliation.  Altho’ the Change of Circumstances obviously requires a Change of Measures correspondt to the Nature of Retaliation, I censure Neither.  Whatever may be the Desire of others, it is mine that this war may be concluded, as it has hitherto been conducted by us, with the Humanity which a benevolent Religion, civilized manner, and true military Honour inspire.  This is a Conduct worthy of the Patrons of Liberty.  It is a Conduct which will give this Infant Republic a distinguished Rank among refined and civilized Nations; and recommend her to the Favour and Protection of Heaven.
                  To me it is highly pleasing so perfectly to agree with your Excellency on the manner of issuing this business.  Be assured that I will give it all the dispatch of which it is capable; and that it will be one of the greatest Pleasures of my Life to convince you of the perfect Esteem and affectionate Attachment with which I have the Honour to be—Dear Sir,your Excellencys most Obedient most humble Servant

                     Jas Duane

                     I refer your Excellency for news and Politics to the Secretary at War who does me the Honour to charge himself with this Letter.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 13 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                     Dear SirHead Quarters 13th October 1782

                  My being obliged to go down the River early yesterday morning, prevented my answering yours of the 11th yesterday.
                  I can say nothing decisive respecting the Invalid Regiment, untill the arrangements for the Winter are made: But I cannot concieve any duty more proper for them than that of Constitution Island will be, or where it will be more light.  They will have occasion for very few Centries, and those may be under cover—They will have comfortable Barracks and Fuel at hand—And the greater part of the Men, who were turned over to the Corps by the last Inspection, are as fit for stationary duty as any Men in the Army—Were there accommodations for the number you mention at Newburg—Their duty would be dispersed—hard and exposed.
                  You may keep Van Schaicks Artificers, and the further number requisite shall be drawn from the line—perhaps there may be some Carpenters and Masons among the Levies allotted to the Wood service.  If there are, you may draw them from thence and replace them with Men who are not Artificers.
                  I should have thought the Quarter Master could have furnished the Teams necessary for the transportation of the materials from Fishkill, especially as he had been informed that there would be no call for them for the purpose of removing the Army.
                  I had always understood that the old Barracks on the Point had held 1300 Men—They might perhaps have been too much crouded with that number—You now say that the Barracks on the point, exclusive of that in Fort Clinton, will not hold 900 Men.  I would wish you to explain this.
                  I should have no objection to sending the prisoners of War taken to the Northward, to Albany, were there any means of keeping them there—There are no troops there except, perhaps, a small Guard to Lord Stirling—I cannot consent to send them to New York, as with an old Balance and those who have gone in with paroled Officers, the enemy already owe us 900 Men—They ought however to be removed from West Point to Philada by the first opportunity—The Germans, notwithstanding what they may say, are prisoners of War.  I am with great Esteem Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

                        Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from David Smith, 13 October 1782
From: Smith, David
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Dobbs-ferry October 13th 1782

                  On examining the person Mentioned Yesterday to your Excellency, late from N. York, and suppos’d to be a british officer—I find by his acct of himself, that his name is Hamlinton Chalmers, That he formerly deserted from General Burgoyne’s Army—serv’d in the Spring  1778 at West Point as Assistant Engineer, afterwards, deserted the American service—Went to N. York—serv’d as Adjutant to the Corps of N. Jersey Volunteers, ‘till some of the officers of that Corps were derangd—and plac’d upon the half pay list, Among which he was one, as may appear by the inclosed papers.
                  That he has now deserted from the british a second time—landed about five Miles above Powles-Hook.  He assigns as a reason for his last desertion, want of support—I have plac’d a small guard over him at Captain Lawrence’s where he will be kept ‘till you Excellency’s pleasure may be known respecting him.  I have the honor to be, Your Excellency’s most Obdt humble Servt

                     David Smith Major


Title: General Orders, 14 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Verplanks Point Monday October 14th 1782
                     Parole
                     Countersigns

                  For duty tomorrow Major Genl HoweMajor PettingillMajor SpurrBrigade Major HicksQuarter Master 2d Connt BrigdeFor duty tomorrow1st Jersey & 7th Massa. regiments.
                  Major Generals Gates, Heath, and St Clair and Colonels Greaton, and Ogden are requested to meet at General Gates’s Marque tommorrow morning at 10 o’clock in order to settle a dispute of rank between Lieutenant Colonels Huntington & Gray.  The Parties are desired to attend and the necessary Papers laid before the Board—They will make their report to the Commander in chief.
                  For a Manoevre to be performed on Thursday next, the disposition for which will be hereafter communicated.
                  The Jersey Line will give one, the York line two, the Connecticutt line including the Rhode island regiment two, and the Massachusetts line three battallionseach battallion to consist of two Field & twelve Platoon officers twenty five Noncommissd officers, & eight Platoons of fifteen Files each.
                  Four field Pieces to be attached to this Corps.
                  The Jersey battallion to be furnished with 12 the two Connecticutt and that battalion of Massachusetts which forms immediately on the left of the Connecticut with four rounds of blank cartridges per man.  The Field pieces with ten rounds each the battalions to be provided with colours.
                  At the General courtmartial of which Colonel Cortlandt is president Ensign Covel of the 4th Massachusetts regiment charged with "absenting himself from his regiment beyond the time limited in his furlough, and when notified agreable to a resolve of congress of December 6th 1779 to join his regiment neglecting so to do or to give satisfactory reasons for his continuance of absence" was tried agreable to the resolve of congress of Decr 6th 1779 respecting absent officers.
                  The Court on consideration are of opinion that Ensign Covel has exceeded the limits of his furlough that he has been notified to join his regiment agreable to the resolve of congress of Decr 6th 1779 respecting absent officers and that he has neglected to join the regiment accordingly or to give satisfactory reasons for his continuance of absence and they sentence that he be cashiered.
                  The Commander in chief approves the sentence of the court.
                  At the same Court Samuel G. Dyer of the Rhode Island regiment "charged with Desertion from the regiment in April 1781. and joining the enemy," was found guilty in breach of article 1st section 6th of the rules and articles of war and sentenced to suffer Death (more than two thirds of the court agreeing thereto).

                  The Commander in chief approves the sentence of the court.


Title: From George Washington to Louis-Antoine-Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de Cambray-Digny, 14 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Cambray-Digny, Louis-Antoine-Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de

                     SirHead Quarters 14th October 1782

                  You have my permission, so far is it depends upon me, to go to France—Your application for liberty to go beyond sea must be to Congress—I can only recommend that indulgence, but have no authority to grant it—You may make use of this letter to shew my approbation of your request.
                  I inclose you a Certificate of your service.  I should have been happy had I been able to have spoken of them from my own immediate knowledge: But the other testimenials of which you are possessed are so ample and honorable that I think they cannot fail of procuring you as favorable a reception at your own Court, as you, in my opinion, deserve.  I am Sir Yr most obt and hble servt

                Certificate on the other sideMonsr du Cambray was appointed Leut. Colonel in the Corps of Engineers in the service of the United States of America in June 1778—He never served under my immediate command.  But from the ample and honorable testimonials which have been granted to him by the Generals under whom he did serve, and from the observations which I have had an opportunity of making since my acquaintance with him—I have every reason to believe that he is an officer of ability in the line of his profession and of great Zeal and Activity in whatever may be committed to his direction.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 14 October 1782
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     War office Octr 14—1782

                  I was yesterday honored with your Excellency, favor of the 7th.
                  The matter, of partial exchanges, is now before Congress I have given them an extract of your letter to me on the subject—I think it will not pass.
                  I have solicited the attention of Congress to the case of Captain Asgill, and have requested them to pass on the doings of the British court martial on the trial of Captain Lippencut.
                  I need not be particular as I expect the honor of seeing you in Camp by saturday next.  I have the honor to be my dear General with the highest esteem your Excellencys most Obedient servant

                     B. Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 14 October 1782
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                        Private

                  Philadelphia Octr 14 1782
                  I was yesterday morning my dear General honored with your private letter of the 2d instant.
                  The picture your Excellency gives of the distresses of the army is horrible it is nevertheless, I doubt not, strictly true their sufferings require the immediate attention of Congress I shall without the least delay faithfully lay the matter open to them and shall not fail to represent in strong terms the probable ill consequences unless some speedy relief is granted.
                  You mention as a ground of complaint that the compensation to the Army for their services is left in a loose equivocal state &c.  Of this I am fully convinced and from the knowledge I have of the temper of Congress I have little expectations that the matter of half pay, to which I suppose you allude, will be in a better situation than it now is untill it shall be recommended by Congress to the several States to provide for their own officers which I am apprehensive will not be done unless Congress know, in some way or other, that it is the wish of the officers that they would do it.
                  You know sir that no monies can be appropriated but by the voice of nine States there were not that number in favor of half pay when the vote to grant it passed in Congress which was a vote before the consideration was signed and practiced upon but is not now—I see little probability that a sum equal to the half pay will be appropriated to that purpose and apportioned on the several States—Massachusetts is one of those States who have always been opposed to the measure indeed there is but one State east of this which agreed to it in the first place there is too great a part of the Union opposed to the half pay to think of carrying it through, the States in the oposition cannot be coerced—They say that they are willing to make a handsome compensation by compromise that they will give a sum which shall be just and honorable from this it will be difficult if not impossible to persuade them to depart—I am my self fully in opinion that it will be much best for the army to be referred to their several States and that their expectations will end in Chagrin and disappointment if they look for half pay from Congress—Let us for a moment reflect how Congress will avail themselves of money to discharge this debt they cannot appropriate any part of the sum, to this use, which shall be annually apportioned on the several States for the reasons I mentioned before there are not nine States in favor of it—Should it be said that it may be paid out of the revenue of some general Tax, it will not remove the objection the money arising from these general taxes must be appropriated also if such taxes were passed no one of those proposed has yet passed and I see little probability that any of them will soon if ever—see, after a years labor the present state of the proposed five ⅌Cent duty and if we attend to its progress we have, I think, little hope from general taxes it can hardly be supposed that thirteen States so differently situated should agree in a general tax which will in their opinion do equal justice to all of them.
                  Two other general taxes are proposed one on all the polls in the United States a difficulty is started at once it is said that the black men must not be fully included, if they are the southern States will probably object to it if they are not the other States will have their objections—A third tax proposed is to be laid upon every hundred acres of land, in the United States there is a great difference in the value of the lands and I suppose when it is considered the tax will be thought too unequal to be adopted.
                  I have been thus particular that I might fully impress on your Excellencys mind my ideas respecting the propriety and necessity of the officers applying to Congress requesting that they would recommend to the several States the discharge of the half pay in such way and manner as shall be mutually agreed on between them and their officers and I think the old soldiers who have served from the commencement of the war should not be forgotten.
                  Besides the greater probability there is that officers will be more fully compensated by being referred to their several States I think the opportunity of making a settlement which shall be consonant to the genius of the people among whom they must live should alone be a sufficient inducement for them to wish it.
                  Congress have lately ordered a farther sum of money to be borrowed in Europe that is appropriated solely to the support of the army and is not subject to the payment of any interest or old debt whatever though it was strongly urged that it might be the people are to be taxed for the payment of old debts and interest so many are interested in a Tax of this kind that I suppose it will be with more ease collected.
                  One milion of Gelders have lately been borrowed in Holland, perhaps more since our last accounts, if Congress would fund a loan here on that sum I should be in hopes that we might borrow enough to make the army some payment But these are matters you know my dear sir are out of my provence to direct I can only lend my personal enterest that such a measure may take place.
                  Your Excellency has known Congress much longer and much more intimately than I have—In all such public popular bodies delays will be created by the different views and interests of the different States although the justice and necessity of appointing Brigadiers to the Massachusetts & Connecticut Brigades is so apparent yet every attempt Which has been made to fill up the vacancy has hitherto proved abortive—I hope however that it will not be much longer delayed—I have frequently applied for leave to issue commissions to officers who long since have been appointed by their States and who have long served in the army without commissions but without success.  I hope to obtain it in a day or two.
                  The moment I can obtain leave from Congress I will commence my journey for Camp—The commissions for the captains in the Massachusetts line are made out.
                  I have written My dear Sir with great freedom because I thought it would be agreeable to you & because I could do it with perfect safety—with unlimited confidence and esteem I have the honor to be My dr General your affectionate humble servant

                     B. Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from David Smith, 14 October 1782
From: Smith, David
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Light Infantry Camp Octr 14th 1782

                  Agreeable to your Excellency’s order The following mode of communicating by signals to your Excellency, is agree’d upon by Major Ashley, Capt. Pray, and myself.  Viz.
                  That upon one Vessel of Force passing by Dobbs-ferry, the beacon at that place, shall be set on fire—should there be more than one, a piece of cannon is to be immediately discharged—this is design’d to communicate to the upper beacons—on the signals being made at Dobbs-ferry for one Arm’d Vessel passing, one of the upper beacons is to be fired, & upon the discharge of a cannon at the works the other is likewise to be immediately set on fire.As accidents may happen to the guard boat, The Command’g officer at Dobbs’s, will immediately on the approach of one, or more arm’d Vessels, dispatch an express to Capt. Pray, that he may send a boat with intelligence to H. Quarters.  I am, Your Excellency’s most Obdt humble Servt

                     David Smith Major


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 14 October 1782
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Crompond Octo. 14th 1782

                  I have this moment recd Your Excellency’s Letter of this Date.  The four Prisoners refered to in the Letter shall be disposed of agreeable to Your Excellency’s orders.
                  I have enclosed the purport of intelligence which I yesterday recd from a Man who left N.Y. on friday last.  This morning I was informed that the packet arrived on the Day he left N. York.
                  If Col. Thompson should proceed to the East End of Long Island with his Corps, there would be a favorable Opportunity to strike him on his return.  If Your Excellency judges proper, I should be happy to undertake an Enterprise of that kind.
                  I expect this Evening to hear from S.C.  I have the Honor to be With great Respect, Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

                     Benja. Tallmadge

                Enclosure

                            Intelligence given by W
                     c.13 October 1782

                     After you pass Kings bridge on the road to N.Y. there are no Encampments of Consequence between the Bridge & the Line of Pickets, which is about one mile & a half from the Bridge.  This Line of Pickets or rather Stockade begins on Haerlem river a little above No. 8 & runs directly across over to the north River.
                     Between this Stockade & Haerlem heights are some Huts, a few barracks built directly upon the sides of the road, & a few Tents, Containing the Guard & Reserve for Fort Washington, supposed about 800 men.
                     From Haerlem hights down to the Dove Tavern at the five mile Stone, lie encamped the main body of the British & German Troops, extending from the East to the North River.  Directly at the Dove Tavern in rear of the Infantry are the 17th Dragoons on the right & Col. Worms Corps of Yagers on the left.  On Friday the 17th L.D. had 175 Horses on the parade & the Yagers 115—From the five mile Stone down to the City are a few small Encampments and in the rear of the City are some new Barracks On the Jews burying Ground lies encamped, to appearance about one Regt—By the best Observations I could make, & information I could procure, the number of the Enemy at N.Y. & its Environs is about 11.000 men, & suppose they may amount to 12.500.  In this number are included a considerable number of sick & Invalids, as well as their new raised Corps.
                     Col. Thompsons Regt of Horse have gone down L. Island about 250 in number, supposed with a View to Sweep off the Cattle & forage from that Country.  They live upon the Inhabitants as they Please, & commit the greatest acts of Violence—This would be a good opportunity to destroy that Corps.
                     The Kings wood Yard at N.Y. is very well filled, tho’ the fleet & Army are constantly getting large supplies from it.  Their forage magazine near the College on the North river is very large, but does not appear sufficient to support such a body of horse as they have thro’ the season.
                     The whole City seems to be full of Sailors the fleet having hauled in nearer to the city & grand battery to take in their necessary Stores.  All the Pumps in the City are going to supply the Men of War, & it is daily expected that there will be a severe press in N.Y. as it cannot be long before the Fleet will sail.
                     The fleet of small Transports which had the Refugee Families on board, have returned from the hook, & it is said some have landed on Staten Island.  The Refugees are more dissatisfied than ever.  They say that their Convoy is not so large as was promised them, & that they shall most probably be all taken—& some surmise that the Admiral is about taking them to man his fleet.
                     There appears to be no preparations making for the imbarkation of Troops.  The Transports are all ready, but nothing said about an immediate imbarkation.  However the measures of the Genl are kept so secret that it is hard to find out his intentions—The arrival of the next packet will most probably determine the Arrangement of their Army for the Winter.  From what could be collected, I cannot beleive That the Enemy will totally leave N. Y. before the spring.


Title: General Orders, 15 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Verplanks Point Tuesday October 15th 1782
                     Parole Williamsburgh
                     Countersigns Richmond, Hampton.

                  For the day tomorrow Brigadier Genl PattersonMajor PorterMajor OlneyBrigade Major WalkerQuarter Master Williams
                  The Jersey & 2d Massachusetts Brigades, will give the Guards &ca for the day tomorrow.
                  The days being much decreased in length and mornings grown colder, the troop untill further orders is not to beat ’till 9 o’clock.
                  The Commander in chief directs the army to be informed that in consequence of instructions from the superintendent of Finance, the honorable Mr Cornell hath entered into a Contract with Messrs Wadsworth & Carter to supply the Main army, the Garrison of West Point and its dependences with rations of provisions from the 16th instant untill the last day of December next inclusive.
                  All applications for provisions are therefore to be made to them or their agents; and no receipts, or vouchers for the Delivery of Provisions are to be given except to them or persons issuing under their authority.  The aforesaid Contractors Wadsworth & Carter are to have the use of all Commissarys store houses, Scales & weights belonging to the public in this department, they taking care that the property of the former Contractors be as little injured thereby as possible.


Title: To George Washington from Moses Ashley, 15 October 1782
From: Ashley, Moses
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Dobbs-ferry Octr 15th 1782

                  I have the honor to send by the bearer several letters recieved from New-York by a flagg this day.
                  I have also recieved permissions from Sir Guy Carleton, for a Mr Redfield from the State of Connecticut, and Lieut. Wheaton of the Rhode Island Regiment to be recieved on board the enemys guard ships to perform their business.  and as they had your Excellencys leave for a flagg for that purpose, & were waiting at this post to obtain permission to be recieved on board, I have given them the above mentioned permission.
                  I must request your Excellencys directions respecting, a Mr Chalmers who has lately come from the enemy, & says he was an Officer in their service; he was delivered to me a prisoner, by Major Smith whom I relieved, & expect  has reported concerning him.  I am your Excellencys most Obedt & very humle Servt

                     M. Ashley. Majr


Title: To George Washington from Ezekiel Cornell, 15 October 1782
From: Cornell, Ezekiel
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Camp Verplanks Point Octr 15th 1782

                  I take the liberty to inform your Excellency that agreable to my instructions from the Honle Robert Morris Esqr. Superintendent of Finance I have Contracted with Mesrs Wadsworth and Carter to supply the Moving or main Army and Garrision at West Point and its dependencys with rations of provisions from the 16th Inst. untill the last day of Decemr next both day included Mesrs Sands & Livingston by their letter of the 1st Inst. to me having Signified their inability to Supply under their Contract longer then the 15th Inst.  Of this I wish the Army to be made Acquainted And that in future they will receive their Supplies of Mesrs Wadsworth and Carter or such persons as they shall appoint. I have the honor to be your Excellencys most obedt Hume Servant

                     Ezekl Cornell

                     P.S.  Mesrs Wadsworth and Carter by their Contract are to have the use and Occupancy of all the Commissary Stores and Scales and weights that belong to the public I wish an order may Issue for that purpose doing as little injury as possible to the property of the former Contractors.

                     E. Cornell


Title: To George Washington from Jacob Samuel Howell, 15 October 1782
From: Howell, Jacob Samuel
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia October 15th 1782

                  The Clothier General being confined to his Bed and unable to write, has requested me to inform your Excellency that he has recieved your letters of 25th September and 7th Instant, and that the Linen for Shirts is now giving out to be made up, and to assure you that every exertion shall be used to have this business forwarded—the completion of which from the train it is put in, we have the strongest hope will be by the latter end of next or early the ensuing month.
                  There is at Newburgh and this post, Meterials to make about 5000 pairs of Woolen Overalls, and about 12000 pairs of Hose—Blankets we are here entirely destitute of nor can they be purchased in this Quarter in any quantity—It is likely that a supply of this article may be procured at the eastern Ports, which has been duely represented—Watch Coats we have none here, and but few in the Store at Newburgh—Mittens we are also entirely destitute of—A report of these deficiencies has been made to the Minister at War.
                  And as the Shoes Mr Moylan has contracted for will be all shortly delivered in, he has urged the necessity of entering into timely engagements for the supply of that necessary article for the ensuing year.
                  The Clothing arrived at Boston consists of about 2300 suits of uniforms and some Black Stocks, and will be shortly ordered forward to Newburgh—No Blankets have arrived here nor at any other port that we are informed of.
                  Mr Moylan desires me to inform your Excellency that as soon as he is able he will write you more fully on these subjects.  I have the honor to be with great respect Your Excellencys most Obedient and most humble servant

                     Jacob S. Howell
                     D. Clo. Genl


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 15 October 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                  Sir

                     Office of Finance 15th-16 October 1782.

                  I have received your Letters of the second, third and seventh Instant.  There is no Man in America more heartily disposed than I am to remove from the Army and from all others who have Claims on the Public every just Ground of Complaint.  But with the Means in my Power, how is it possible?  I have been obliged to submit to Cancelling one Contract and forming another at one third advance on the former Price, for the Want of a meer Trifle compared with what we had a Right to expect.  I am in advance on Credit to an Amount which you can scarcely form an Idea of altho I have declined every Expenditure not indispensible.  That Part of the late arrival of Cloathing which is unfit for Soldiers Use is now Selling to pay off Debts contracted by the Cloathing Department during my Administration.  Among these Debts are twelve thousand Dollars for needle Work done by People in extreme Indigence.  The Cloathing which arrived fit for Officers wear was inadequate to the Purpose of Cloathing them all.  The Division must have created Confusion and raised Disputes.  If this had not been the Case still it would have been liable to the Inconveniences attending partial Payments and we should have been justly Reproached for having broken repeated Promises that no such Payments should take Place.  Congress have done all in their Power to procure Money for the Army.  My own Efforts I shall not dwell upon.  If Money is obtained that will produce Satisfaction.  I am sure that nothing else will.  My Credit has already been on the Brink of Ruin.  If that goes all is gone, but if it can be preserved there will in the last necessity be some Chance of making advances on Credit to the Army as well as to others.  Thus Sir you will see that I look forwards as far as my distressed Situation will admit; but after all if the States cannot be prevailed on to make greater Exertions it is difficult to foresee where the Thing is to terminate.
                  I have this Day commissioned Major Turner as a Marine Commissary of Prisoners, and I trust he will soon be in Capacity to prevent your Excellency from any farther Trouble on that Subject.  I am Sir with sincere Respect & Esteem Your most obedient & humble Servant

                     Robt Morris

                     16 October
                     I have received yours of the fourteenth for which be pleased to accept my Acknowledgements.  R. M.


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to Thaddeus Betts, 15 October 1782
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Betts, Thaddeus

                  Gentlemen

                     Head Quarters 15th Octo. 1782

                  I have to reply, in his Excellency’s Name, to your Letter of the 10th instant by M. Smith.
                  The two Men mentioned therein Raymond & Silleck were supposed to have been sent in agreeable to my former Letter—but being still found in the provost, Orders have been given to the Comy of Prisoners, for those two Men by Name, to be sent to N.York as soon as Convenient—no further Mistake I hope will take place. I am &ca

                     J. Tr——ll


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 15 October 1782
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                  Sir,

                     Camp Verplank’s Point Octr 15. 1782.

                  Agreeably to your Excellency’s directions, being accompanied by Colo. Swift, Colo. H. Jackson and Colo. Cobb, I have viewed divers parts of the Highlands, and the wood lands in the vicinity of New-Windsor and Newburgh, to find places adapted to the hutting of troops.
                  About a mile on this side of the huts late of the 3d Massachusetts brigade, on the right of the road leading to them, after passing a small house on our left, just at the bend of the road, we found ground well-wooded, & sufficient for a brigade, tho’ best adapted to a small one.  Here the huts would have a western aspect, with a brook just in front.
                  From the ground above described we proceeded upwards, and crossing the mountain, entered the valley opposite to Butler Hill.  About a mile and a half from the river is a wood convenient for hutting a brigade, with a southern aspect, and a brook close in front.  Then passing a pond, we continued our course eastward about two miles; the ground being every where covered with wood, but affording indifferent positions for hutting, tho’ as practicable as some heretofore occupied for that purpose.  But the labour and difficulty of the communications with troops hutted in this valley, seem to forbid the placing any there.  From the river to the spot first mentioned there is an uninterrupted (& in some parts steep) ascent of more than a mile; and after passing it, the ground, where a road must be cut, for upwards of two miles, is rough, & in many parts covered with rocks.  From the river to the Fishkill road is upwards of four miles.
                  After crossing the river, we went from Newburgh towards the Great Pond; and passing Gedney’s sawmill (about two miles and a half from Newburgh) we came to his woodland, which would admit the hutting of a brigade: but the wood is not convenient, being generally either large timber or a young growth.  About two miles farther on, after passing the brook which runs from Richard Wards saw-mill, we found on the left of the road a convenient piece of ground tolerably wellset with handy wood, tho’ hardly sufficient for hutting a brigade & its fuel thro’ the winter.  The huts would have a southeastern aspect.
                  Being informed that there was a fine wood on the northern bank of Murderers Creek, and not exceeding three miles from its mouth, we went & examined the place described; which was an agreeable flat, sufficiently elevated; but the wood was totally inadequate to the purpose of hutting.  Proceeding upwards on the south side of the creek, about a mile farther, we found a very convenient wood where a brigade might hut with a southern aspect; having Murderer’s creek about five hundred yards in the rear, and a brook in Southerland’s meadow a little farther in front.
                  Near a mile farther on we came to ground on the left of the road, extending from thence to the mountain, where a brigade might be covered, fronting eastward; but the timber was rather thin, and would require labour to collect it.
                  Passing a little farther up the road, we thence descended towards Murderer’s Creek, and fell into a grove of convenient timber, but not extensive; tho’ there & from the grounds adjacent wood sufficient for a brigade might be collected.  The huts would have a northern aspect, with Murderer’s creek in front.  We were now full five miles from New Windsor.
                  Not satisfied with any of the grounds we had seen, we came down to the artillery huts, to view the Ellison’s lands.  Passing from the huts thro’ the woods westward, we met with an excellent grove sufficient for hutting two brigades, which might take either a western or southwestern aspect.  On examination we found this grove to be about five hundred yards southward from Deacon Brewster’s, & perhaps a mile from the artillery huts; and laying on a road leading from John Ellison’s across to the Little Britain road.  We were satisfied, from our observations and enquiries, that water might be obtained in plenty within reasonable distances from the hutting ground.
                  In the rear of the artillery huts is a wood of William Ellison’s, sufficient for a brigade.  It would be convenient to throw the brigade back to the higher parts of it, the front of the wood growing where, in the Spring, the ground is very wet.  This wood joins lands of the Joneses, where any addition of timber might be procured.  I have the honour to be with great respect your Excellency’s most obedt servant

                     Tim: Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to Nathaniel Sackett, 15 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Sackett, Nathaniel

                     Head Quarters 15th Octo. 1782

                  Genl Washington’s Compliments to Mr Sacket—and begs he will accept his thanks for the Cheese which he was kind enough to send him.


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to William Stephens Smith, 15 October 1782
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Smith, William Stephens

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters 15th Octo. 1782

                  Mr Smith has been to West point—and on Enquiry, finds that the two Men, Isaac Raymond & Thomas Lilleck, who he was seekg are now at the Provost.
                  His Excellency therefore directs that you will be pleased to have them sent into N. York as soon as convenient—that they be accounted in Exchange for Henry Chiecester & Joel Smith, who are already sent out from the Enemy in that Expectation.  I am &c.

                     J. Trumbull


Title: To George Washington from Louis-Philippe de Rigaud, marquis de Vaudreuil, 15 October 1782
From: Vaudreuil, Louis-Philippe de Rigaud, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                        Monsieur
                         15 October 1782

                     je prends La liberté de vous d’adresser a votre excelence un paquet pour Mr Le Duc de Lauzun que j’engage à revendre à Newyork pour traiter avec Les amiraux anglois de L’Echange de Mr de La touche et afin quil puisse visiter Les prisonniers francois qui y sont et leurs procurer quelques soulagements.
                     il est arrivé un batiment venant de cadiz et parti Le 24 aout on a appris par Lui que L’assaut devoit redonner à gibraltar Le Landemain et que Les assiegeants ne doutoient point de la réussitte.  je suis avec Les Sentiments de La plus haute consideration et de respect de votre Excellence Le tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur

                        Le Mis de Vaudreuil

                  Translation
                     I take the liberty to inclose your Excellency a Packet for Mr le Duc de Lauzun who I engage to go to New York to treat with the English Admirals for the Exchange of Mr de la Touche and to visit the other French Prisoners & procure them some necessaries.
                     A Vessell is arrived here from Cadiz which place she left the 24 August by her we learn that the 25th was fixed as far as assault on Gibralter and that the besieging had no doubt of success.  I am &c.


Title: General Orders, 16 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Verplanks Point Wednesday October 16th 1782
                     Parole Paris.
                     Countersigns Passy, Villers.

                  For the day tomorrow Major Genl GatesMajors Reading & WrightBrigade Major ConverseQuarter Master Ripley
                  The New York and 2d Massachusetts Brigades will furnish the Guards &ca tomorrow.
                  Thirty Masons and twenty Carpinters to be sent from the several brigades to Westpoint tomorrow morning.
                  The boards to whom were referred the settlement of the dispute of rank between Lieutenant Colonels Huntington and Gray, report, that,
                  Having examined all the papers referred them by the Commander in chief and having heard every thing that Lt Col. Gray and Lieutenant Colonel Huntington had to urge in support of their respective claims are unanimously of opinion, as the Commander in chief ordered Colonel Livingstons resignation to be fixed to the 10th of October 1778 in consequence of his improper conduct in neglecting to procure the proper vouchers of the settlement of his accounts that Lieutenant Colonel Livingstons Commission became vacant that day and of course Lieutenant Colonel Huntingtons Commission is regularly dated, and ought to give rank from the date thereof.
                  As the manouvring battalion will occupy the Grand Parade tomorrow morning, the Guards will be formed on the rising ground between Head quarters and Engineers Marque.


Title: To George Washington from Ebenezer Hazard, 16 October 1782
From: Hazard, Ebenezer
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Philadelphia October 16th 1782.

                  By Letters from Col. Pickering, Mr Loudon, and Mr Alvey, I find that various Difficulties are of late started respecting the Dragoons who carry, and escort the Mail between Morris Town and Fishkill: Col. Pickering wishes me to furnish them with Forage on the Road; and your Excellency will observe from the enclosed, that it is now proposed that they shall not carry, but merely escort the Mail.  As the Incomes of my Department will but barely defray present Expences, although the Post goes no farther Southward than to Petersburg, I could not comply with Colonel Pickering’s Desires, were there no Impropriety or Irregularity in it; much less can I employ a stated Postrider, and, at the same Time, furnish the Dragoons with Money to defray travelling Expences, which, for the last Quarter, have been at the Rate of One hundred and sixty Pounds per Annum.  I am therefore reduced to the Necessity of troubling your Excellency upon this Subject, and requesting your Opinion whether Dispatches to and from Head Quarters will be safe, between Morris Town and the Army, if carried by an unguarded Postrider: should your Excellency think they will, I shall be happy in saving the Money we are now obliged to advance for the Dragoons Expences; but if otherwise, I must request your Excellency will order that the Escort shall be continued, and that one of the Dragoons shall carry the Mail, whereby the Expence of a stated Post Rider will be saved.  I cannot conceive why the Weight of the Mail should have been mentioned, as it is not greater when carried by a Dragoon’s Horse than when carried by any other; and as the Escort consists of five Persons, their Horses may bear the Weight alternately, by which Means each of them will carry it but once in five Weeks, and receive no Injury from it were it as great as is alledged in Mr Alvey’s Letter; but the Fact is, it is very trifling.  I have the Honor to be, very respectfully, You Excellency’s most obedient, and very humble Servant

                     Ebenr Hazard

                Enclosure

                        Dr sir
                        Camp 10th Octb. 1782

                     I Just this moment receiv’d a relief of five horsemen, to go in the place of those who have went with the Mail, for this sometime past, They have Orders from the Commanding Officer of the Regmt & Baren Stuben not to carry the Mail on Their horses, as hitherto, but only to escort it as these Orders are such, & they refuse to carry it, I would therefore be glad that You wd inform either Me, or Mr Louden (or both) by the return of Post, in what manner the Mail is to be Conducted.  the reesen for the above Orders are, they say the Mail is heavy; & has killed half the horses in ther Regmt if You have the Resolution of Congress, or Order of the Board of War, respecting the horsemen going with or carrying the Mail will thank You to send it to me.  As it may serve to convince some One or other that there is an Order for the purpose.  With Complements to Mr Brysen I am sir in haste With much esteem Your very hum. Serv.

                        Jno. D. Alvey

                        What I mean by conducting the Mail is, wether there must be a Post Rider got to go with them & to carry it—As the Mail is much expos’d for the want of locks will thank You to send Me a Couple—We have nothing new.


Title: From George Washington to James Lovell, 16 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Lovell, James

                     SirHead Quarters 16th October 1782

                  I am extremely obliged by the information contained in yours of the 10th —I immediately forwarded your letters and the papers to Mr Morris by Express.
                  I am convinced we have nothing to expect from Great Britain but what her necessities shall oblige her to give up—She is somewhat like a person in desperate circumstances—She can scarcely be in a worse condition and by persevering, something fortunate may turn up—Upon this plan, I belive, she prosecutes the War.  I am with great Regard Sir Yr most obt servt


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 16 October 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Office of finance 16 Octr 1782.

                  I have, for some time past, anticipated the reflection which you have made, on the situation of the Army.  I know that some Money is necessary, and my efforts to obtain it, both at home and abroad, have been unceasing.  I am now about to purchase a vessel, and send a person on board of her to the Havanah, for the purpose of vending Bills of Exchange to the amount of half a million dollars.  I have issued orders to the Alliance Frigate, to go thither inquest of it and take the proper measures for payment of the Bills in Europe.  This plan was adopted, from a conviction that a considerable sum would be wanted about the close of the Year, and my experience that Bills could not be sold to the amount.  Your letters confirm me in my ideas of its propriety.  If I succeed, a part of the Money shall be applied as pay.  If the plan should fail, the Army will not be the only persons who will have reason to lament the failure.  This matter I mention to you sir, in confidence, as well because I will not raise hopes which may prove abortive, as because it is necessary the profoundest secrecy should be observed lest the Enemy should prevent the execution of it.  You observe in your letter, that a peace is necessary; But if I were to hazard an opinion on the subject, it would be, that War is more likely than peace to produce funds for the public debts, increase of authority to Congress, and vigor to the administration as well of the union as of its component parts.  These things all appear necessary to our future prosperity—safety and happiness.  Beleive me I pray you with sincere Esteem your most obedient and humble Servant

                     Robt Morris

                     Translation, DLC:GW.  The


Title: From George Washington to Elisha Sheldon, 16 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters 16th Octo. 1782

                  I inclose to you the Paroles & Countersigns from this Day—to .
                  You will keep them sacredly to yourself untill they are delivered to your Corps—and when they are expired you will send to Head Quarters—& they will be continued for a further Time. I am &ca

                     G.W.


Title: From William Stephens Smith to Jonathan Trumbull, Jr., 16 October 1782
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.

                     Sir.
                     Verplanks Point 16th Octr 1782

                  Agreable to his Excellency’s request, I have inform’d myself as fully as possible respecting the Character of Chelmer & find that in 78. he was attached to Colo. Laridier the Enginier at West Point, that according to his own account, he was a deserter from the Convention Troops, a Scotchman by birth Educated at Paris, he appear’d a man of address, and his manners superior to his station.
                  From some Circumstances that mark’d his Character, during his service at the post, he appear’d to be a finish’d Villian; which opinion the account he gives of himself seems fully to justify & places him in such a suspicious point of view, that he may be consider’d as a spy, or a Deserter, his general Conduct and abilities justifying the former, & the latter can be fully supported, by proving, that he received pay in our service, & deserted to the Enemy. I am Sir Your most Obedt Humble Servt

                     W.S. Smith Lt Colo. &c.


Title: General Orders, 17 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Verplanks Point Thursday October 17th 1782
                     Parole Edenton.
                     Countersigns Hallifax, Newburgh.

                  For the day tomorrow Major General HeathColonel Van SchaickMajor WarnerBrigade Major SmithQuarter Master Tuckerman
                  The Guards &ca for tomorrow will be furnished from the Line of the Army.


Title: Disposition for a Manoever, 17 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Disposition for the Manoeuvre, October 17th 1782

                  At 10 o’clock A.M. the Troops will assemble in front of the Left wing of the Army & be formed in the following manner.
                  One Battalion of Jersey
                  First Battalion of York—with Two field pieces
                   Second Battalion of York
                  First Battalion of Connecticutt wth Two field pieces
                  Forming One brigade, commanded by B. Genl Hand
                  Second battalion of Connecticutt
                  First—2d—& 3d battalions of Massachusetts
                  			Forming the 2d brigade Commanded by B. Genl Paterson.
                  The troops being formed in close Column will march to the ground designed & will display from the center; the battalion of Jersey forming a flank to the right.
                  The Line will form close column to the right and take up their line of march towards the supposed right wing of the Enemy.  The battalion of Jersey will be detached in front making a false attack to cover the manoeuvre.
                  The Column will march towards the point of attack on the Enemys Left.  The battalions of the Second brigade taking the distance necessary for displaying: When the Column in front arrives opposite the Point of Attack each Column turns and forms in the Points of view which will be given; The Artillery begins immediately to fire; the Eleventh Cannon shot will be a signal for the fourth battalion of the first brigade & the battalions of the Second Brigade to display to the Left; The Jersey battalion instantly retires by divisions through the intervals, gains the right of the Column formed for attack, & forms in close Column.
                  The Artillery ceases firing and the Two Battalions of York attack in Column.
                  The Column halts.  The Line advances, Drums Beating, ’till in a line with the head of the Column, & halts.  The Battalion of Jersey immediately gains the right of the attacking column turns the 8th post of a circle to the left, displays to the right and fires by division.  In the same moment the first and Second Battalions of Connecticutt and first battalion of Massachusetts fire by Battalion.  The fire of the Infantry is followed by a Cannonade.


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 17 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                     My dear Sir
                     Ver Planks Point Octr 17, 1782

                  I have had the pleasure to receive a few days ago, your private Letter, by the same conveyance which brought your public Dispatches of the 26th & 29th of August—I seized the first safe conveyance to forward the family Letters to the care of Governor Greene.
                  In answer to your request, that I would give you my sentiments on the future Plans of the Enemy, I need scarcely premise, that in the present fluctuating state of British Councils & measures, it is extremely difficult to form a decisive opinion of what their real & ultimate objects are; but the enclosed Extract of a Letter from Mr John Adams will give you the most recent & satisfactory account of European affairs that we are possessed of; and for my own part, I must say, I am not in the least disappointed, that the Negociations have not as yet been brought to any favourable issue, for notwithstanding all the pacific declarations of the British, it has constantly been my prevailing sentiment, the principal Design was, to gain time by lulling us into security & wasting the Campaign without making any efforts on the land, & in the interim to augment their Naval Force & wait the chance of some fortunate Event to decide their future line of conduct—Nor can I now see any good reasons for changing my sentiment of their intention—Perhaps the British Administration may be compelled, by the perplexity & embarrassment of their affairs to wish seriously for a Peace in the course of the Winter & to act accordingly; but we may be assured that Necessity alone will produce that desirable Event, if it should take place at all.
                  Your observations on the situation of our Finances & public Matters, accord exactly with my own.  And it is a melancholly truth, that there is but too much justice, in the picture you give of the temper & disposition of the People at large & the Defects of the Confederation.
                  Upon a general view, therefore, of our own circumstances, & those of our Enemy, I am sorry I cannot give you my advice respecting the arrangement of your private concerns in a more definite and satisfactory manner.  Before this day, I presume the southern States, are abandoned by the Enemy, if they mean to evacuate them this season; and I cannot help remarking, if the British are once forced to relinquish all their possessions in that quarter, I do not apprehend they will ever attempt again to occupy them & overun that Country except some very new & unforseen accidents should turn up, which will entirely change the whole face of affairs.  And however vulnerable they might once have considered the southern States, I can by no means think, after their repeated losses & disgraces, they will resume the idea of conquering them, unless they should revive again the mad Plan of total conquest—From these considerations I should imagine your property will be as safe there as in any other part of the Continent; but as I observed before, I can scarcely form a conjecture of what they will or will not finally resolve upon—It is our business to be prepared for all Events.
                  Should I hear any thing respecting your friends, or any thing in which your happiness is concerned, I shall not fail to communicate it; I pressed Mrs Green to leave my namesake behind her—& I afterwards pressed Pettitt to send him to Princeton where he now is, and was very well eight days ago—he is in the family of Doctr Weatherspoon, but more particularly—I am told, under the care of a Mr Montgomery, he is a fine boy, and I dare say with proper attention, if he lives, will be an ornament to his Country; as his infant genius promises much from mature age.  Mrs Washington had not, I am perswaded, received a letter from Mrs Greene before she left my Qrs at Newburgh in the first week of July; what she may have done since I know not.  despairing of seeing my home this Winter, I am now writing to her to make her annual visit—I am very sorry to find Mrs Greene has occasion for the sea air, I hope it has perfectly recovered her—My best respects & most affectionate Compliments attend her.  I am &c. with the greatest sincerity My Dear Sir, Your affectionate & most Obedt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 17 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

                     My dear Sir,
                     Verplanks point Octr 17th 1782.

                  In a visit to the Post of Dobb’s Ferry last Saturday, I accidentally met with Majr Lynch at that place, & received from him your letter of the 30th Ulto.
                  In a time like this, of general uncertainty with respect to the designs of the British Court, it is not at all wonderful to find men enquiring at every Corner for News—The North sends to the South, and the South to the North, to obtain it.  But at present, all I believe are equally ignorant.  My opinion of the matter is, that you could learn nothing decisive from the Cabinet itself.  I have long thought, and still think, they are trying the Chapter of Accidents; and the good or ill success alone of this Campaign, will fix their Councils.  If they can obtain any advantages at Sea, or in the Indies—East or West, no matter where—I am of opinion they will continue the War—If their Affairs on the other hand stand still, or continue to retrograde, their Stomachs will come to, & Peace, will be seriously thought of.
                  From a letter I had from the Marqs De la Fayette of the 29th of June, nothing more could be collected than that doubts & darkness prevailed—that the business of Mr Greenville, seemed to be that of procrastination—In a word, that nothing was fixed; and that the cause of this stay was to see matters in such a train as to find the way clear, before he left France.  In New Yk they are as impatient as us for News—expecting the August Packet will remove all doubts; but herein they will be mistaken—later accts than the Packet can bring, leave the Negotiations at Paris in as doubtful a State as ever—A Letter which I have just received from Boston gives me the inclosed as an extract of a Letter from Mr Adams of the 20 of Augt from the Hague.  The Boston Gazette says, that the Combined Fleets had left the Channel, and that the Jamaica Fleet got in four days afterwards—It also gives an Acct of an Action in the East Indies between the French & British Fleets, in which, after a hard fought action, they say victory inclined to the latter, but that the Ships of Admiral Hughes were so much damaged he could not pursue. this is such an acknowledgment (for a British acct) as to leave little to be apprehended from it.
                  You will recollect the opinion I gave you upon the receipt of Carletons letter of the 2d of August to me—subsequent events, as far as they have come to my knowledge prove it was well founded, & I wish future ones may not evince that to gain time, was all that the British Ministry had in view—The impolicy therefore of suffering ourselves to be lulled by expectations of Peace, because we wish it, & because it is the Interest of G. Britain to hold up the ideas of it, will, more than probably, prove the ruin of our cause, & the disbanding of the Army; for it should seem from the conduct the States are pursuing—that they do not conceive it necessary for the Army to receive any thing but hard knocks—to give them pay, is a matter which has long been out of the question; and we were upon the point of trying how we could live without Subsistence (as the Superintendant was no longer able to fulfil his Contract with the Victualers of the Army, & they relinquish it) when fortunately for us we met with Gentlemen, who, for an advanced price ⅌ Ration, has saved us from Starvation, or disbandment by giving a credit—Our horses, have long been without every thing which their own thriftiness could not procure.
                  Let any Man who will allow reason fair play, ask himself what must be the inevitable consequence of such policy.  Have not Military Men the same feelings of those in the Civil line?  Why then should one set receive the constant wages of Service, and the other be continually without them? do the former deserve less for their watchings and toil—for enduring heat & cold—for standing in Sunshine & in rain—for the dangers they are continually exposed to for the sake of their Country; by which means the Man in Civil life sits quiet under his own Vine & Fig tree—solacing himself in all the comforts—pleasures—& enjoyments of life, free & unrestrained? let impartiality answr the questn.
                  These are matters worthy of serious consideration.  The patience, the fortitude, the long, & great sufferings of this Army is unexampled in history; but there is an end to all things, & I fear we are very near one to this.  Which, more than probably, will oblige me to stick very close to my flock this Winter, & try like a careful physicion, to prevent, if possible, the disorder’s getting to an incurable height.  I am Yr very Obedt & Affecte Servt

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  I have this moment received a Letter from the Marqs De Vaudruil informg me, that a Vessel just arrived from Cadiz, wch place she left the 24th of Augt brings advice that the day following was fixed upon for a genl assault of the Works at Gibralter, by the combined force of F. & Spn.

   as this is a private letter, Mr. Adams’s name had better be withheld.


Title: General Orders, 18 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Verplanks Point Friday October 18th 1782
                     Parole Versailles.
                     Countersigns Ushant, St Malo.

                  For the day tomorrow Major Genl St ClairColonel ShepardLt Col. C. SmithB. Major WilliamsQr Master Morrill
                  The Guards &ca for tomorrow to be furnished as this day.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Asgill, 18 October 1782
From: Asgill, Charles
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Chatham Octr 18th 1782

                  I have been honored with your Excellys Letter & am exceedingly Obliged by the attention which mine received.  I will not intrude on your time by repetitions of my Distress, which has lately been increased by accounts that my Father is on his Death Bed.  I have only to intreat as it may be a long while ere Congress finaly determine, that your Excellency will be pleased to allow me to go to New York on Parole & to return in case my reappearance should hereafter be deemed necessary—if this request cannot be granted I hope your Excellency will give orders that my Parole may be withdrawn, as that Indulgence without a prospect of further Enlargment affords me not the least satisfaction, I had rather indure the most severe confinement, than suffer my Friends to remain as at present deceived, fancying ever since my first admission on Parole, that I was entirely liberated & no longer the Object of retaliation-- if your Excelly could form an Idea of my sufferings I am convinced the trouble I give would be excused I have the Honor to be your Excellencys Most Obedt Hbe Servt

                     Charles Asgill Lt & Capt. 1st Guards


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 18 October 1782
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Pokeepsie 18th October 1782.

                  The Bearer Mr Renselaer is very desierous of having an Interview with his Mother who is at New York at Dobb’s Ferry—The Merit of the Familly & particularly the Respect due to the Old Gentleman who is sollicitous that he may have this Indulgence induces me to consent to it and I shall be happy if your Excellency shall deem it expedient to permit it.  I have the Honor to be with the highest Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

                     Geo: Clinton


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Franklin, 18 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Franklin, Benjamin

                  Sir,

                     Head Quarters 18th Octr 1782.

                  I have been honored with two favors of your Excellency—One presented by the Count de Segur of the 2d of April—the other delivered by the Prince de Broglio, of the 8th—both wch were rendered doubly agreeable, by the pleasure I had in receiving them from the hands of two such amiable young Gentlemen.
                  Independent of my esteem for your Excellency—be assured Sir! that my respect & regard for the French Nation at large, to whom this Country is under so great obligations—as well as the very favourable Impressions I have conceived for these particular characters, will secure my warmest attention to the persons of these distinguished young Noblemen.
                  I am much obliged by the political information, which you have taken the trouble to convey to me—but feel my self much embarrassed in my wish to make you a return in kind—At the first of the season the expectations of America were much raised, in consequence of the change of the British Ministry and the Measures of Parliament—but events have shewn, that these hopes have risen too high—The death of the Marquis of Rockingham, the advancement of the Earl of Shelburn, & the delays of Negociation, have given us very different Impressions from those we at first conceived—We now begin again to reflect upon the persevering obstinacy of the King, the wickedness of his Ministry, and the haughty pride of the Nation, which ideas recall to our Minds very disagreeable prospects—and a probable continuance of our present troubles.
                  The Military operations of the Campaign, are drawing to a close, without any very important events on this side of the Water unless the evacuation of Charles Town, which is generally expected, but not yet known to me, should take place, and form a Paragraph in the page of this years History.
                  The British Fleet from the West Indies still continues in New York.  I have not been able yet to decide on the enemy’s Intentions there—It is generally thought that a detachment of their Troops will sail with them when the Fleet returns to the West Indies—where it is conjectured their efforts for the winter, will be prosecuted with vigor.  I have the honor to be with great respt & Estm Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 18 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                  Dear Sir

                     Head Quarters Verplanks 18th Octr 1782

                  Since writing to you, I have received yours of the 26th of August, covering a duplicate of one of the 12th.  At the same Time, came to hand your favor of the 29th informg the Excursions of the Enemy for Rice, and inclosing a copy of General Gists Letter to you of the 27th.
                  In my last, which was the 23d of Septemr, and which was forwarded under the Care of the Secretary at War, I gave a compleat Answer to that of the 12th and wish it may come safe to your Hands, and find you in safe & full possession of Charlestown.
                  The Death of Colo. Laurens I consider as a very heavy misfortune—not only as it affects the public at large—but particularly so to his family, and all his private friends & Connections, to whom his Amiable and usefull Character, had rendered him peculiarly dear.
                  The Campaign in this Quarter, is coming to a Close, without any Events of great Importance.  The Intentions of the Enemy at N. York, still remain undecided—their fleet continues in the Harbour, making every preparation for sailing—which I fancy is delayed, in expectation of the Arrival of the packet, which is hourly looked for from England.
                  It is not yet known but strongly conjectured that a Detachment of Troops will go from N. York to the West Indies with the fleet.
                  Sir Guy Carleton has collected most of his outposts—contracted his Lines near the City—and is making his Garrison of York as compact as possible.
                  Many have flattered themselves that an Evacuation of York would take place before Winter, but I have no such Idea.  With very great Regard & Esteem I have the Honor to be My Dear Sir Your most obedt & Most humle Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 18 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters 18 Octr 1782

                  I have the honor to inclose to your Excellency a Copy of an Estimate of Expences incurred by the conveyance of Information which I have had the honor at your request to transmit to the Marquis de Vaudreuil.
                  It has been communiated to me from the Quarter Master General who was intrusted by me to institute the Chain of Expresses—and at the same time it is intimated to me that he shall be obliged in a short time to call on me for Money to defray the Expence.  with the greatest respect and esteem I have the honor to be Sir Your Excellencys Most Obedient humble Servant

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  The Acct of Expences in procuring Intelligence has not yet been handed to me—I expect some mention of it every Day.

                Enclosure

                           c.18 October 1782

                     12 Dragoon Expresses posted at the different States between Hudson’s River and Hartford, At 2 2/3 Dollars each pr Week, is pr Day4.4/7Dollars.13 Hired Expresses from Hartford to Boston At One Dollar pr Day each, is pr Day1317. 4/7Which is pr Month of 30 Days527. 1/7Contingent Expenses for Shoeing the Dragoon Horses, Ferriage &c. pr Month10    537. 1/7

                  N.B.  The Chain was established about the middle of August.


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to Benjamin Lincoln, 18 October 1782
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters. 18th Octo. 1782

                  By Command of His Excellency I transmit to you a Monthly Return of the Army—for September.  With great Respect I am Sir &c.

                     J.T.


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to New York Officer Commanding at Dobbs’s Ferry, 18 October 1782
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Officer Commanding at Dobbs’s Ferry, New York

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters 18th Octo. 1782

                  His Excellency the Commr in Chief directs me to inform you, that havg considered the Case of Adjutant Chalmers, who was put in Confinement At your post, by Major Smith, & made some further Enquiry concerng him, he is pleased to Order him to be released—you will therefore be so good as to enlarge him, & order him to depart immediately into the Country, taking his parole in Writing that he will not again come within Twenty Miles of the American or french Armies, or their Military ports, upon Pain of being apprehended and treated as a Spy.  His parole you will be pleased to send to Head Quarters.  I am Sir &c.

                     J. Trumbull, Jr


Title: General Orders, 20 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Verplanks Point Sunday October 20th 1782
                     Parole
                     Countersigns Ostende, Dieppe.

                  For duty tomorrow Brigadier Genl PattersonColonel OgdenLt Colonel OlneyBrigade Major CoxQr Master from 2d Connectt. brigadeFor duty tomrrow5th Connecticut & 9th Massa. regiments.
                  The 1st York regiment to relieve the men on duty at Stoney point and Kakiat from the 2d Massa. regiment tomorrow.
                  All Warrants or Certificates for Commissions from their respective States, of which officers are at present possessed are immediately to be lodged with the Adjutant General_and a return of all those Warrants or Certificates which have been forwarded to the War Office and upon which Commissions have not been issued is to be made to the Adjutant General immediately also.
                  The Secretary at war has been kind enough to undertake to carry down with him these warrants & returns, and send the Commissions due upon them to the Army.


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 20 October 1782
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Poughkeepsie Octr 20th 1782

                  I was this Morning honored with your Excellency’s Letter of the 19th Inst.  When I transmitted the Affidavits &c. inclosed in my last, I was sensible of the Delacacy entertained by your Excellency respecting your interference with the internal Police of the french Army: but as the Persons concerned in the Dispute were Americans I should have had great reluctance in making the Application to Count Rochambeau.  I was in hopes too that the bear knowledge of your Excellency’s being applied to on the Subject, would have induced the Parties to have compromized the Matter; which I still hope will be the Case.
                  I very candidly confess I am of Opinion with your Excellency that nothing extraordinary is to be apprehended from the late Accounts we have had of the collection of the Enemy’s Forces at the Ile au Noix & Oswego; and this Sentiment I expressed to Lord Stirling in the first Communication I made to him on the Intelligence I had received—Tho’ I thought it my duty, as I mentioned to your Excellency, to order a part of the Militia to be held in readiness.  I learn however that the frontier Inhabitants are much alarmed at those hostile Appearances, and I am therefore very apprehensive that if any Part of the Troops on the Northern & Western Frontiers were to be removed before the Season is somewhat further advanced and thereby even the possibility of the Enemy’s visiting them with large Parties be removed, it might create great uneasiness among them & perhaps induce the more exposed to abandon their Settlements & remove into the interior Parts of the State; which would be exceedingly distressing to themselves & injurious to the public.  Indeed, if it might be consistent with your Excellency’s Views, I should conceive that the continuing of a small regular Force to the Northward during the Winter might be attended with good Consequences especially as they may be comfortably accomodated.  I have the Honor to be with the highest Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servant


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 20 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                     My dear Marqs
                     Verplanks point 20th Oct. 1782

                  Whilst I thought there was a probability of my letters finding you in France I continued to write to you at Paris—after that, I ceased to do so, expecting the more agreeable pleasure of embracing you in America—Your favor of the 29th of June, placing the time of your departure from thence on a contingency, and our latest advices from Europe, reporting that the Negociations for Peace were nearly in the same State as at the commencement of it, I shall renew my corrispondence.
                  I approve, very highly, the motives which induced you to remain at your Court and I am convinced Congress will do the same—The Campaign, as you supposed has been very inactive—We formed the junction with the French Corps (whch is now Encamped on our left ten miles distant) the Middle of September; and have remained in perfect unison with them ever since their arrival—It may I believe with much truth be said, that a greater harmony between two armies never subsisted than that which has prevailed between the French & American since the first junction of them last yearI had prepared a beautiful Corps for you to command, that would not, I am convinced, either in their appearance or action, have discredited any Officer, or Army whatever—It consisted of all the light Infantry of the Northern Army,—to which Sheldon’s Legion would have been added—But we have done nothing more that to keep a watch upon the enemy this Campaign except restraining them from detaching; which I believe has been the consequence of our junction, & lying here.  A few German Troops, & Refugees have been sent to Hallifax, from thence it was supposed they were to proceed to Canada, this took place before I came into the Field, which was on the last day of August—The Cold weather puts us in mind of warm fire sides; & the two armies will seperate for this or some other purpose, in the course of a few Days—The French Army will go Easterly—we Northerly, & shall fix our Cantonments in the Vicinity of West point.
                  The Enemy in New York make no scruple of declaring their intention of evacuating Charles town—Many Transports went from the former about a Month ago; with design, it is long said, to take off the Garrison; but whether it is to be brought to the last mentioned place or carried to the West Indies is mere matter of conjecture—very probably the British Troops may go to the latter, & the foreigners to the former—time only will shew this, as indeed it may another thing—viz.—that the late changes in the British Council may prevent the evacuation of it at all—With respect to New York, værious opinions have prevailed—some thought the speedy evacuation of it inevitable—others, that it would be delayed till the spring, while a third set, less sanquine than either of the other two, believed that nothing short of Military force would ever free the City of them—their whole design being to amuse the Belligerent Powers, & deceive America till they could put their Marine & other matters in a more prosperous train for prosecuting the War—the first, it is certain were in an error, because the Troops are still at New York, but wch of the other two may be right your knowledge from what is transacting on the European theatre enables you to judge better of than I—certain it is, the loyalists & Refugees in New York are very much alarmed, & know not what to expect—as certain it is Sir Guy Carleton holds himself in readiness to evacuate, or perform any other movement with his Army, while he endeavors assiduously in the mean while to propogate the favourable disposition of Great Britain to grant every thing America can require—Their Transports have Wooded & Watered, & lay ready for any service—so have the Ships of War, under Admiral Pigot; but I believe they are designed for the West Indies, with part of the Troops at New York, more than for any other purpose—You will have heard before this Letter can reach you, of the loss of the L’Eagle—it will be unpleasant therefore to repeat it—every body laments the misfortune, & pities poor De Touche—Duke Lauzen has been very sick but is now recovering fast—tho’ very thin, & pale.
                  Poor Laurens is no more—He fell in a trifling skirmish in South Carolina, attempting to prevent the Enemy from plundering the Country of Rice—Genl Lee is also dead, he breathed his last at Philadelphia about a fortnight ago—Your Aid G.W. has had an intermittant fever ever since April & by last Accts of him from Mount Vernon where he is, he was very low & weak.  As I despair of seeing my home this Winter I have just sent for Mrs Washington who will think herself honoured by yours & Madm La Fayettes notice—Make a tender of my best respects to her, & offer a blessing in my name to your Son, & my Godson—present me also to Count Charlux & others with whom I have the honor of an acquaintance—the Count de Noailles will have the trouble of reading, a letter from me.  Adieu My dear Marqs—believe me to be, what I really am your sincere friend & most Affectionate Humble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Moses Ashley, 21 October 1782
From: Ashley, Moses
To: Washington, George

                     Sir.
                     Light Infantry Camp Octr 21st 1782

                  In compliance of the Brigade orders of the 12th inst. I proceeded on the 13th to Dobbs ferry with two companies of my Battallion, and relieved Majr Smith: on my arrival found a flag was going to the enemy’s guard ship, to carry Majr Lynch of the Maryland line, & Lieut. Wheaton of the R.I. Regt but they not having had previous permission to be received, returned the same day.  Monsieur Brentino Aid de camp to Genl Bn Viominel, & a Mr Redfield from Connecticut were also waiting at the post, for an oppurtunity to transact their business—the 15th a flag came from the enemys guard ship & brought some letters, which I forwarded to your Excellency.  Mr Redfield & Lieut. Wheaton having permissions brought by the beforementioned flag from Sir Guy Carlton to be received at the guard ship to perform their business.  I sent a flag to carry them, which left them & returned immediately.  I receiv’d a letter from Head Quarters on the 17th having two enclosed, which I forwarded by a flag that arrived on the 19th & brought Mr Redfield.  a flag came on the 18th & returned Lt Wheaton, bringing a letter to Mr Brentino, who is still waiting for the arrival of some French prisoners taken in the Aigle.  on the 20th I was honor’d with your orders respecting the prisoner Chalmers, which were immediately executed; his parole is enclosed: at the same time I receiv’d a letter from Head- Quarters, having one enclosed to Admiral Pigot, and another to Mr Isaac Ogden at N. York with directions to forward them the first oppurtunity, which letters I delivered to Majr Dexter who reliev’d me that evening, receipting me for the Stores at the post, which receipt is herewith transmitted.  I have the Honor to be your Excellencys most Obedt & very humle Servt

                     M. Ashley Majr


Title: General Orders, 22 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Verplankspoint Tuesday October 22d 1782
                     Parole Viominel.
                     Countersigns Chattellux, Laval.

                  For the day tomorrow Major Genl HeathMajors Trescot & GibbsBrigade Major ConverseQuarter Master RiplyFor Duty tomorrowthe 2d Connecticut. & Rhode Island regiments.
                  The Army is to Manouvre on Thursday next the dispotition for it will be previously given out and the troops are to be served with an extra gill of rum Pr man on that day.
                  The Army is to be in readiness to march at the shortest notice_As the baggage will be transported by water no Waggons or horses are to be brought to camp for the purpose.
                  In future the serjeants guards for the bridge at the right is to be detached from the Captains Guard on the right of the Chain.


Title: To George Washington from Adam-Philippe, comte de Custine, 22 October 1782
From: Custine, Adam-Philippe, comte de
To: Washington, George

                     GénéralAu Camp de Crampond Le 22. 8bre 1782

                     Quand j’ai l’honneur de parler à vôtre Excellence de mes regrets de me separer d’elle J’espere la trouver Convaincu de leur sincérité.  Ils sont encore Augmentés par le regrét d’avoir été Si Occupé dans les Derniers Tems de mon sejour ici qu’il m’a été impossible d’aller les lui Temoigner moi même.  M Le Duc de Lauzun et tous ce qui l’entoure a bien voulu se charger de lui en parler.
                     C’est avec un plaisir infini que je saisirai toujours toutes Les Occasions de me Rappeller à Son Souvenir et de l’assurer du Respecteux Attachment avec lequel j’ai l’honneur d’etre de Son Excellence Le très humble & très Obeissant Serviteur

                        Custine

                  Translation
                     Sir,Crompond 22 Octbr 1782I hope your Excellency will be convinced of my sincerity when I mention my regret at being seperated from you  this regret has been considerably augmented by the impossibility, in which I have been of assuring you in person what the Duc de la Lauzun is so kind as to undertake for me—that it will afford me infinite pleasure to recall myself to your remembrance and to convince you of the respectfull attachment with which I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedt hum. Servt

                        Custine


Title: To George Washington from William Greene, 22 October 1782
From: Greene, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Warwick 22d Octr 1782

                  It gives me the severest Pain to address your Excellency upon a Subject that may bear the Complexion of adverting to the internal Police of your Army.  The Feelings however of Humanity, excited by the Solicitations of many valuable Citizens, will form my Apology.  Samuel Dyer, a Soldier in the Battalion of this State, has lately been tried by a General Court martial for Desertion, and probably is condemned to die.  He is of a very ancient and reputable Family here, and his present Relations and Friends are numerous and respectable.  They have pressed me with every Motive that can excite Compassion, and I am certain your Excellency’s Breast is never callous to the Cries of Distress.  If therefore the unhappy Youth can be respited from the Jaws of Death, a Monument of Gratitude will be erected in the Hearts of hundreds, who now esteem you their common Father and Friend.  By the best Information I can obtain, Dyer is not vitious in Nature; he is extremely imprudent, and commits Treason without Consideration.  ’Tis possible he may be reclaimed, and yet become an useful Member of Society.  He is easily seduced & this has probably been the Cause of his unhappy Fate.  If your Excellency should be inclined to Clemency, the Prayers of an afflicted Mother, of Brothers, Sisters and Connections will ascend to Heaven in grateful Fervor, while a contrary Decision can only assuage their Grief, as resulting from the Orders of General Washington.  I have the Honor of being Sir, with every degree Esteem & Regard, your Excellency’s most obedt & very humble Servt

                            W. Greene


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Lansdale, 22 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Lansdale, Thomas

                     SirHead Quarters Verplanks Point 22d Octr 1782

                  You will halt the Detachment under your Command at Pompton, as near what is called the Yellow House (Curtis’s) as possible.  If you have not Tents, you must get your Men under cover in as compact a manner as the nature of the neighbouring Farm Houses will admit.  You will detach a Captain two Subalterns and 50 Men to the Block house in the Clove, a little beyond Sufferans, and give him orders to relieve the party now there, belonging to the New York Line, who are to join their Regiment; The Relieving Officer will take the directions for his duty from the Officer relieved.  Be pleased to make me a Return, by the Bearer, of the Strength of your Detachment.  I am Sir Your Most Obedient Humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 23 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Verplanks Point Wednesday October 23d 1782
                     Parole
                     C.signs

                  For the day tomorrow Major General St ClairLieutt Colonel NewhallMajor DarbyB.M. SmithQuarter Master TuckermanFor duty tomorrow4th Connecticut & 1st Massa. regiments.


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 23 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

                     My dear Sir,
                     Verplanks point 23d Oct. 1782

                  I am pained because I cannot answer the expectation & request of your letter of the 10th Instt—which only came to my hands on Sunday by the Post—to your satisfaction.
                  To make such an application as you require to the Financier, would, I know, be unavailing—first, because he has most decidedly, refused to adjust, & discharge the claim of any Officer who is a resident in, & the subject of the United States, and secondly, every other consideration apart, what would alone be a sufficient bar—because he has not the means of doing it—The States are so tardy in collecting the Taxes, that the most trivial sum cannot be obtained for the most pressing purposes—and in one sense it may be said, that the Officers of the Army are actually starving for want of a small portion of their pay—the Horses of it, for want of money to procure forage, are actually in this condition—In a word Sir, for want of a little money to pay the transportation of some very essential articles, the Troops have suffered, & continue to suffer amazingly; and for want of this said money, we have been obliged to relinguish a Contract for subsisting the Army at 10d. a Ration & give 13d. for the sake of three Months credit—There have been instances I know, where some foreign Officers, who had no state to resort to—& who were reduced to the last extremity—having received a small part of their pay, but trifling in comparison of their demands, or dues—Judge ye therefore under these circumstances, how fruitless would be any application to the Financier for money.
                  The only mode I am told, by which you can be relieved, is for me to apply to Congress to recommend your case to the State of Maryland; that you may be included in the Officers belonging to it—This I have accordingly done (as you may see by the Inclosed) through its proper channel—the Secretary at War—who is now here, and on whom I shall enforce the measure in terms which I perswade myself will give facility to an official act.
                  We have been at this place—Verplanks point—ever since the last day of August, and are upon the point of retiring into Winter Quarters—The French Army (except the Legion of Lauzen) have Marched Eastward for theirs—We go Northward, to the Vicinity of Westpoint—We have long expected to hear of the evacuation of Charles Town, as the Enemy in New York do not scruple to say it is a measure determined on—but how far a change of Men may produce a change of measures, you can judge as well of as I—No Man on this side of the Water I believe (not even Sir Guy Carleton himself) knows the result of the British Councels—My opinion of the matter is that they are not dependant upon the events of the Campaign—You will readily infer from hence that I have no idea of a speedy evacuation of New York—Mr Greenville has certainly left Paris, but he is succeeded by a Mr Fitzherbert; and the negociations are yet going on—but limpingly.  I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affecte Hble Servt

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  Since writing this letter I have conversed with the Secretary at War on the Subject of it who assures me there will be no difficulty at all in the way.

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to John Stark, 23 October 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Stark, John

                     SirHead Quarters 23d Octo. 1782

                  A few Days ago I received your favor dated the 23d of Septemr last, giving the Reasons of your Detention from Camp.
                  As the Season is now so far advanced, without a prospect of immediate Service—and your Health is not yet fully established, I do not wish or expect that you should join the Army this Fall.
                  I am much obliged by your kind Wishes for my personal Happiness—and sincerely hope for a full Resoration of your Health & Usefulness.  I am Sir.