Title: To George Washington from Bartholomew Dandridge, 20 March 1782
From: Dandridge, Bartholomew
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            New Kent March 20th 1782

                        I wrote you from Mount Vernon informg you of my having taken the Administration of Mr Custis’s Estate. I had
                            the Estate in Fairfax appraised and endeavored to inform myself as well as I could of the situation of Mr Custis’s
                            Affairs, but of these I could get but a very imperfect account either from his Papers or any other means, he seems to have
                            kept no regular account of his Transactions, from what I am able to judge Mr Posey knows more of them than any other
                            Person, and since I came down Mr Posey has been so engaged that he has not had leisure to render me any Account of the
                            Estate or to assist me in having it appraised. I wrote you an account of the Conversation I had with Mr Robt Alexander
                            respecting the Debt due to him since which I have heard nothing from him, I propose to consult Mr Randolph in that Matter
                            as soon as he returns and to take such Method as shall be found best for bringing it to a Conclusion You have no doubt
                            heard that the Assembly of this State have put a total stop to the Circulation of Paper Currency and that it is to be
                            redeemed at a thousand for one, according to the Scale of Depreciation fixed by them Mr Alexander will receive in Specie
                            one fifth part of the nominal sum his Debt amounts to. I find there are several Debts to a considerable amount besides
                            this due from the Estate, and altho Mr Custis has received many large Debts in Paper Money in a very depreciated State,
                            yet there are Bonds that still appear to be due to a considerable amount and these with the Loan Office Certificates seem
                            to be more than sufficient to discharge all Mr Custis’s Debts. yet in the present situation of our Country it seems as if
                            they could not be made to answer that end. I believe the Persons indebted would find it very difficult to raise the sums
                            they owe in Specie, and our Assembly neither pay their own Debts or furnish the means of compelling others to pay theirs.
                            In this situation I am really at a loss to know what is best to be done, Mr Custis’s Creditors must either wait til these
                            Debts can be collected or his Estate must be sold to pay them. The Profits of the Estate I am afraid are very small for Mr
                            Posey has informed me that he has no Money in his hands, nor a prospect of geting any but from the Sale of some Corn which
                            is a very dull Article, The Furniture Mrs Custis could not live without. and the Stocks are absolutely necessary on the
                            Plantation, I propose to sell the Horses & mares that can be spared to satisfie the most pressing Demands on the
                            Estate, and have made one attempt in which I was disappointed, and am afraid the Price of them are falling, even on Credit
                            50 lb. of James River Tobacco has not been offered for Leonidas, and I was in hopes he would have sold nearly for double
                            that sum.
                        As it was not immediately necessary the Children should have Guardians none were appointed. I am still in
                            hopes the situation of our Affairs at the end of the ensuing Campaign will admit of your taking that trust upon you and
                            that will be in full time, in the mean time I am satisfied they are under the Care of a very affectionate and prudent
                            Mother.
                        I observe you kept Col. Custis’s Books for his Son and should be glad to know whether you or my Sister chuse
                            that Mr Custis’s Books should be kept.
                        I do not find amongst Mr Custis’s Papers any Settlement or Account between him & yourself, or any
                            Contract for the Estate you gave up to him, nor can I learn what the Contract is, or that any Settlement was
                                made. I shall always esteem as a favor any Advice or directions you may think proper to give me
                            respecting the management of Mr Custis’s Estate.
                        I have the pleasure to acquaint you that I found my Family in good health on my return from Fairfax and that
                            they continue so, I think the Ride was of Service to me, yet I cannot yet say I am perfectly restored to that health that
                            I have usually enjoyed. My Mother & all the Family join me in a tender of their sincere Respect Esteem &
                            Affection to you & my Sister. I am Dear Sir Your very affectionate & obedient Servant

                            B Dandridge


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 20 March 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,Head quarters, Highlands, March 20th 1782.

                        I have obtained from colonel Varick copy of a paper respecting challenges of members of courts-martial, but
                            it is not conclusive—and colonel Varick informs me, that after searching and researching, he cannot yet find any other. By
                            the paper he has sent me, it appears a council of general officers were convened at Middle Brook the first of June 1779,
                            when your Excellency was present and stated to the council, that general Arnold had made preremptory challenges to several
                            members appointed on the court martial for his trial, and requested the opinion of the council thereon—that at the
                            instant, intelligence was received of the advance of the enemy to Kingsbridge and White-plains, and a fleet up the river
                            as far as Teller’s point, on which the matter was defered without decision at that time; so that no light can be derived
                            from the papers yet obtained.
                        On the night of the 14th instant, lieutenant Harris of captain Vermillie’s company of militia having obtained
                            intelligence, that a party of Delancys corps were out at a house near Mile-Square. He had the address
                            to surprise the whole party consisting of twelve, to kill one, take and bring off four, prisoners.
                        All accounts agree, that the enemy are strengthening some of their works at New York, cutting a canal,
                            &c. A deserter yesterday from Staten Island, informs me, the troops there are employed in
                            making a number of fascines of nine feet length, about ten inches thick, bound in eight places. I have the honor to be,
                            With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 20 March 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Office of Finance March 20th 1782

                        In consequence of Colo. Tilghman’s letter of the 18th I granted a warrant on the Treasury for one thousand
                            dollars for the purposes therein mentioned, and as he intimates that your Excellency would wish to know how you are to be
                            supplied with money in future, whether from me or from the military chest. I should certainly refer you to the latter were
                            I sure of a regular supply to it—I think however that the best mode for supplying your household expence will be by means
                            of my orders on Mr Swanwick of this place. They are drawn payable to the bearer at sight, and as I shall cause them to be
                            received for the continental taxes in all the states they will procure money wherever your excellency may happen to be. If
                            you approve this I will send four Thousand dollars or more if you think necessary; and as you will only part with them
                            when the course of expenditure requires, it prevents an advance of money from the Treasury until they come round for
                            payment. I have the honour to be—your Excellency’s Most Obt Hble St

                            R. Morris


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 20 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                            Sir
                            Philada 20th March 1782

                        I have been honored with your favor of this Morning. I will make an experiment with your drafts upon Mr
                            Swanwick which I doubt not may be disposed of among the trading people in New York and New Jersey. The smaller the Bills
                            are the more easily will they be negociated—The sum of 4000 dollars will be sufficient—at one time. I have the honor to be
                            &c.


Title: To George Washington from Bryan Fairfax, 21 March 1782
From: Fairfax, Bryan
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Towlston March the 21st 1782

                        I am told that a Letter passing under Your Excellency’s Inspection will be suffered to go to New York, and
                            therefore I take the Liberty to inclose one for Your Perusal and wish to have it take that Passage as it is a Letter of
                            Consequence and beg the Favor of You to have it sealed if not thought improper.
                        The good old Baron in Frederick having died this Winter, the Paper that was left at Mt Vernon has come to my
                            Hands. It contains a Power of Attorney from the present Lord Fairfax (executed before he left the Country) to my Brother
                            to act in his Behalf, with a like Authority from him to me, which not having a Witness to it tho’ in his Hand-writing, I
                            am advised not to act under without further Advice. Yet it is proper that I should give as early Intelligence of it as I
                            can.
                        A fourth part of the Request is left to me, and the reversion of three Annuities of £100 Stg each to three of
                            my younger Children. I remain with great Regard Yr Excellency’s Most obliged & Obedt St

                            Bryan Fairfax


Title: To George Washington from John Hanson, 21 March 1782
From: Hanson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             21 March 1782

                        Congress have been informed by your Letter of the 18th that you judge it necessary to Set out for the Army on
                            the North River. They have nothing in particular to give you in Charge, And have appointed this Audience only to assure
                            you of their Esteem and Confidence, to recommend you to the protection of Divine providence, and wish you happiness and
                            Success.


Title: To George Washington from John Hanson, 21 March 1782
From: Hanson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Circular
                            Sir
                             21 March 1782

                        I have the honor to enclose your Excellency a Proclamation of Congress, dated the 19th Instant; and am, with
                            great respect Your &c.

                            J.H. Presidt

                    Memorandum. The like, verbatim, was sent to General Washington, dated the 1st March 1782.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 21 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                            Sir
                            Philada 21st March, 1782

                        In conformity to a Resolve of Congress of the 19th of December last I am to make known to you the number of
                            General Officers which I shall judge necessary to be in the Field in the Main and separate Armies and in different parts
                            of the United States.
                        This at the present moment considering the uncertainty of the operation of the Campaign which will depend not
                            only upon the dispositions of the enemy but upon the advices which we may expect from our Ally in Europe is a matter of no
                            small difficulty. I shall however proceed upon a supposition that we shall continue to keep two Armies in the Field—That
                            under my own immediate command and that under Major Genl Greene to the Southward; And in making my present arrangement I
                            shall confine myself to the Army under my immediate command, because I am not fully enough acquainted with the nature of
                            the southern service to determine what General Officers are requisite and because some of these States, which now have few
                            or no Men in the Field, may, by calling out temporary Bodies of Men in recruiting their continental lines, make up
                            commands for the General Officers belonging to them.
                        The Infantry under my immediate command consists of the Battalions of the States from New Jersey to New
                            Hampshire both included which, with Hazens Regt, compose Eight Brigades; and which, under the
                            mode in which the Army has been heretofore formed would require Eight Brigadiers and Six Majors General. Four for the Divisions and two for the Wings: But as the Resolve referred to
                            seems to have been founded upon a desire to oeconomize as much as possible and as the Wings of the Army will be so
                            contracted as not absolutely to require more than one Major General to each—I will call for only Three Majors General for the Main Body of the Army Two for the Wings and one for the Reserve or second Line.
                        We are already deficient in Brigadiers and therefore the Duties which I shall now point out must be performed
                            by Majors General and if any reform takes place it must be among the Officers of that Grade.
                        The Light Corps will require a General Officer.West point from its importance can never be left without a General Officer, and one in whose Ability the utmost confidence may be placed.
                        And from the difficulties which we have good reason to expect upon the Northern Frontier a General Officer
                            should be reserved for that contingency.
                        Upon the preceding arrangement we shall want

                                Majs. Genl
                                Brigs. General

                                For the Brigades
                                 0
                                8

                                For the Wings
                                2
                                 0

                                For the second Line
                                 1
                                 0

                                For the Light Corps
                                 1
                                 0

                                For West point
                                 1
                                 0

                                For Northern Frontier

                                     1

                                     0

                                6
                                 8

                        Should we carry on an offensive operation a very considerable Body of Militia must be called in upon the
                            occasion, and as it would be necessary, to make them useful, to put them under the command of General Officers of
                            experience, we ought to endeavour to reserve one or two for such an event. I know it may be said, in answer to this, that
                            the General Officers, who may be deranged at present, may, under the Resolve, be called again into service, if wanted: But
                            upon considering that matter properly we shall find that no great dependance can be put upon the services of an Officer
                            for the remainder of the Campaign who has been deranged at the commencement of it—He will have retired home— He may have made dispositions for remaining at home, and he might
                            think it hard to be called off suddenly from plans which he may have entered upon upon a supposition that his services
                            would not be again required, at least for the Campaign.
                        Let us now, upon a comparative View of the number of General Officers not assigned already to particular
                            duties, with the number required upon the lowest calculation, see whether any reform can be admitted and whether, if any,
                            it will not be so small as not to merit the public attention.

                                Majors General

                                Putnam
                                Incapable of service on acct of

                                Health.

                                Gates

                                Heath

                                Lincoln
                                Secretary at War

                                Stirling

                                McDougall

                                Parsons

                                Steuben
                                Inspector General

                                LaFayette

                                Howe

                                Du Portail
                                Command of Engineers

                                St Clair
                                Included here because it is

                                probable that he will come to the

                                Northward.

                                Brigadiers General.

                                Knox
                                Commanding Artillery

                                Hand
                                Adjt General

                                James Clinton

                                Glover

                                Patterson

                                Huntington

                                Starke

                                Hazen

                        From the foregoing it appears that for the Army under my command Six Majors General and Eight Brigadiers are
                            wanting upon the lowest Calculation and that we have Eight Majors General and six Brigadiers not already attached to
                            particular duties—Whether therefore, all circumstances considered, the two supernumerary Majors General may be dispensed
                            with is left with you to determine. I have the honor to be &c.

                            P.S. Brigadier Genl Irwine commands at Fort Pitt by order of Congress.


Title: To George Washington from James De Camp, 22 March 1782
From: Camp, James De
To: Washington, George

                        May it Please Your Excellency

                            Philadelphia March 22d 1782

                        It is with the utmost pain I make this request to your Excellency, as I suppose it must be disagreeable
                            dismissing Officers from the service at this present time, I feel my self anxious to pertake of the service of the field,
                            the Insuing Campaign, but my situation is such that it will not admit, without doing my private Intrest a very Capital
                            Injury, therefore I Humbly request that your Excellency will be pleased to accept of my resignation, and be assur’d that
                            nothing but my pirticular circumstances induces me to request it, as it is intirely out of my power, to support myself in
                            the army. I have the Honour to be your Excellencys Most Obedt & Very Huml servt

                            James DeCamp Ensign
                            2nd Jersey Regt


Title: To George Washington from Isaac Franks, 22 March 1782
From: Franks, Isaac
To: Washington, George

                        May it Please your Excellency,

                            Philadelphia March 22d 1782

                        It gives me the utmost pain, that I am under the necessity of most humbly requesting, that your Excellency
                            will be pleas’d to accept of the resignation of my Commission, My private affairs call for my immediate and personal
                            attendance, without which, my little Intrest will suffer irreparable injury, some part of it is in the State of New York,
                            of which I am a Native, and were all my connections are, tho I hold my Commission under the state of Massachusetts, were I
                            have not the least connection, when first I enter’d into the service, I had the Command of a little Cash, and my Father
                            gave me hopes that I should not want for a further supply, but Unforeseen losses has put it out of his power, to afford me
                            any Assistance, which has put me to very greate difficultys, and especially at this present time, tis with the utmost
                            reluctance I make this Application to your Excellency, happy should I have been, to have continued in the service, if my
                            circumstances would admit of it, I would fain hope that the above reason will induce your Excellency to indulge me in my
                            request. I have the Honour to be, your Excellency’s Most Obedient and Very Humble servent,

                            Isaac Franks Ensn
                            7th Masschetts


Title: From George Washington to William Irvine, 22 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Irvine, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Philada 22d March 1782

                        You will be pleased to make yourself acquainted as accurately but with as much secrecy as possible with the
                            nearest and best Route from Fort Pitt to Niagara—Whether up the Allegany River and from thence thro’ the Woods—or by the
                            River la Beuf and along the side of the Lake.You will, in both cases, mention the different distances of land and Water
                            transportation. The Indians and Traders who have been used to traverse the Country above mentioned, must be well acquainted
                            with it. In order to deceive those of whom you inquire—appear to be very solicitous to gain information respecting the
                            distances &ca to Detroit. The other matter you may converse upon as if curiosity was your only inducement.
                        I shall leave town this day to go to the Army upon the North River.Your letters to me may be put under cover
                            to the Secy at War—I am Dr sir Yr most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 22 March 1782
From: Knox, Henry,Morris, Gouverneur
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Morris-County 22d March 1782.

                        We did ourselves the honor to write to your Excellency from Elizabeth-Town on the 16th instant, after which,
                            we concluded it necessary to retire from thence, as some people might have been induced, from a suppos’d neutrality, to
                            have had improper communications with the Enemy. Mr Skinner proceeded to New-York on that day, but from bad weather was
                            not able to return untill the 20th. We have enclos’d a letter from General Clinton to your Excellency, a copy of his
                            answer to ours of the 16th, and our reply to him of the 21st. We shall be punctual on our parts as to the time, and shall
                            be happy to receive any further instructions you may think proper to give us. We have the honor to be with the greatest
                            respect Your Excellencys most Obedient and Humble Servants

                            H. Knox
                            Gouvr Morris

                     Enclosure

                                Gentlemen,
                                New-York 18 March 1782

                            I am favored with your Letter dated the 16th instant, and am extremely concerned that mine to General
                                Washington of the 7th did not arrive at Philadelphia time enough to prevent your Journey. It must however have been
                                retarded in its passage by some delay on your side the Water, as Capt. Daytons receipt of it is
                                signed on the 9th.
                            Altho my reasons for wishing to defer the meeting of the commissioners, to the 10th of next month still
                                    subsists. Yet as I am unwilling to expose you to an inconvenience by so long a delay, I am
                                desirous of accomodating you by naming a nearer day and have accordingly appointed Thursday the 28th instant for my
                                commissioners to proceed from hence to Elizabeth-Town, which being the earliest my occasions can admit, will I hope be
                                agreeable to you. I am Gentlemen Your most obedient and Most humble

                                H. Clinton

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Morris County March 21 1782

                            We had the honor to receive your Excellencys letter of the 18th this morning. We lament the delay of your
                                letter to General Washington, principally as it may have tended to your Excellencys inconvenience. We pray you to
                                believe sir, that we are perfectly sensible of your polite attention, to the circumstances of our situation.
                            We shall do ourselves the honor to meet your Excellencys commissaries at Elizabeth Town on the 28th
                                instant. With great respect We are sir Your most obedient and Humble Servants

                                H. Knox
                                Gouvr Morris


Title: From George Washington to John Laurens, 22 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, John

                            My dear Laurens,
                            Phila. 22d March 1782

                        Your order in favor of Genl Lincoln is paid—and I shall, with great pleasure, pay the further Sum which may be
                            due for the articles you brought from France for me, when called upon.
                        I am sorry that the raising of the black Corps, hung in suspense when you last wrote; but hope if Your
                            Assembly then about to sit adopted the measure, it is now in a degree of forwardness and may be useful to the public
                            cause.
                        We have had such frequent reports of the evacuation of Charles Town, corroborated by Circumstances—&
                            latterly by ideas in the Parliamentary debates even from the Ministers, that little doubt seems to be entertained by
                            people in this quarter of the Measures taking place. the Capture of St Kitts & the enemy’s fears for Jamaica,
                            would, certainly, have facilitated this event if the disaster of De Gachin Guichen fleet, &
                            consequent delay & disappointment does not give them fresh spirits, & produce some change in their system.
                        I am within half an hour of setting off for the Army at the No. River, & surrounded with visiters; I
                            can only add therefore & I do it with much truth, that I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affect & Hble
                            Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Wilson, 22 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Wilson, James

                            Dear Sir,
                            Phila. March 22d 1782

                        Necessity obliges me to give you my promissary Note instead of the deposit of a hundred Guineas—I will take
                            it up as soon as I can.
                        Permit me to recommend my Nephew to you—not only as a student requiring your instruction—but to your
                            attentions as a friend. His youth and inexperience may require it, and I persuade myself his sensibility &
                            gratitude will make you every return which may be in his power.
                        If the funds, which his Father has provided for him, should fail, & he stand in need of money, I will
                            see any sum which can be borrowed for his use repaid with Interest. With much truth—I am—Dr Sir Yr Most Obed.

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Harrison, Sr., 23 March 1782
From: Harrison, Benjamin, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir,
                            Virginia in Council March 23d 1782.

                        It gives me great pleasure to find that measures are taking to put the Continental Staff Departments in this
                            State on a proper footing as they really are so distressed that very little Service can be expected from any of them and
                            the State is at this time too poor to give them the least assistance—I am much obliged to you for the cloathing you
                            propose sending on, and think they will be a means of forwarding the recruiting service much.
                        The Executive agree to your proposal of exchanging the heavy brass Cannon in this State, for an equal number
                            of pounds of field artillery. The french officer who gave General Knox an account of their number is certainly mistaken,
                            we know of but seven, one of which is saved by the british into the caliber and one other is at the bottom of Pamonkey
                            river in five or Six fathoms water. a more particular account of them than we have at present shall be taken and the whole
                            delivered to your order whenever you shall please to send for them. The State is so destitute of money that it is not in
                            our power to comply with Genl Knox’s request to send them to the head of Elk. Whenever they are removed the french Ships
                            must convoy them, or they will probably fall into the hands of the enemy who infest our bay in great numbers—I gave the
                            board of war notice about three months ago of Colo. Connelly’s breaking his parole and going to Philadelphia and requested
                            of them to have him secured, since which I have heard nothing of him till to Day when I received a Letter from General
                            Clark informing me that he was at Detroit preparing to invade this country. I hope you will demand him, or he really will
                            be a mischevious enemy to us.I am Dr Sir, with the greatest respect and sincerity Your most obedt and most humble Servant

                            Benj. Harrison

                    P.S. All the cannon are on york river.


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 23 March 1782
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia March 23. 1782.

                        Your Excellency being vested with authority, by the resolve of Congress of the 11th of March 1780, to make
                            the necessary regulations relative to the servants of officers of the army; and the general orders of the 18th of January
                            last not comprehending any officers in my department, I request you will be pleased to extend your consideration of the
                            subject, and fix the number of servants to be allowed them respectively. The only characters requiring servants that I
                            expect will be employed, are comprehended in the following list, against which I have marked the number of servants which
                            Colo. Carrington & I have respectively judged necessary to be allowed in the main & the southern army; and
                            which I beg leave to submit to your Excellency’s correction.

                                No. of servants

                                The quarter master general
                                 4

                                The principal deputy quarter

                                master for the southern service
                                 3

                                A deputy quarter master
                                 2

                                An assistant quarter master
                                 1

                                The Commissary of forage
                                2

                                The deputy commissary of forage

                                with the southern army
                                 2

                                Any other deputy commissary of forage
                                 1

                                The Assistant commissary of forage

                                with the southern army
                                 1

                                The waggon master
                                 2

                                A deputy waggon master
                                 1

                                An Assistant waggon master
                                1.

                        The assistant commissary of forage and assistant waggon master are, in the southern army tantamount, to
                            deputies in the main army.
                        I have omitted brigade quarter masters, as I expect the officers doing their duty will hence forward be
                            called assistant quarter masters, who when assigned to brigades will perform the same duties
                            which are now incumbent on brigade quarter masters; and that they will (agreeably to Genl Knox’s idea) take charge of the
                            spare arms & amunition of their brigades, which their business as quarter masters will admit of their doing with
                            great care and propriety. The conductors of military stores with the brigades to be discontinued. Colo. Carrington
                            perfectly agrees with me in the utility of this alteration; to which also the secretary at war has assented.
                        I trouble your Excellency with the matter at this time because Colo. Carrington is desirous of carrying the
                            arrangement to the southward with him. It will also be necessary for the secretary at War, that he may
                            direct the contractors to issue provisions to the servants which shall be allowed. And it will be convenient to him when
                            the means of enabling the officers concerned to procure their servants are concerted.
                        Whatever number of servants your Excellency shall think proper to allow, no emolument is expected to be
                            derived to the officer to whom they are allowed, except for the number actually employed. I have the honour to be with the
                            greatest respect Your Excellency’s most obedient servant

                            Tim: Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 24 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry,Morris, Gouverneur

                            Gentlemen
                            Trenton March 24th 1782

                        I received last Evening at this place, your favor of the 22d with the several Enclosures—it gives me
                            satisfaction to find that you are so soon to proceed upon the business of your commission; in the mean time, I propose
                            being at Morris Town on the 26 Inst. where I shall probably have the pleasure of seeing you—I am Gentlemen.


Title: To George Washington from John Lewis, 24 March 1782
From: Lewis, John
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Fredericksbg 24 March 1782

                        I make no doubt ere this you have heard of the death of my Father, his loss to his Family is truly great and
                            Sincerely lamented. He has directed by his Will his share of the Dismal Swamp Lands to be sold. Also his part of the land
                            purchas’d in Partnership with you bot of Naughflet & that bought between you Doctr Walker and himself of Docts.
                            Wright & Jones. As the Estate is very considerably in debt I was thinking it would be best (If agreable to you) to
                            sell the lands at Twelve months Credit As they will sell Considerably higher on Credit than for ready Money I should be
                            greatly obliged to you for your advice with respect to selling the lands and If your opinion they should be sold to give
                            me a description of them and the prices you think they ought to sell at: My Mother & Family are well as is the old
                            Lady whom my Mother heard from two days ago. I am Dr Sir Your most Obedt Servt

                            John Lewis

                            I Met with a letter from Havana for you which I have forwarded by post.


Title: From George Washington to Elias Dayton, 28 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

                            Sir
                            Morris Town March 28th 1782

                        It is long since I have been extremely solicitous to cut off all communication with the Enemy as much as is
                            practicable, and to regulate the affair of sending & receiving Flags so as to prevent all improper intercourse
                            thro that channel—but not having yet been able fully to digest a plan for the purpose (the Matter being now before the
                            Commissioners) I can only repeat, that it is my earnest wish, that the number of Flags which pass & repass may be
                            as small as possible; and that every attention may be paid to prevent their being abused to illicit purposes.
                        And in the mean time, you will consider it as a positive standing Order, that no Person coming from the Enemy’s
                            Lines in a flag of Truce shall be permitted to land & remain on shore or to go from us into their Lines, without
                            liberty is first obtained from the Executive of the State, the Secry at War, or myself—And indeed I have made it an
                            invariable rule, that liberty should be obtained from the Civil Authority, previous to my granting passports for any
                            Citizens or Civil Characters to come within our Lines or go into the Enemy’s. I am Sir.


Title: From George Washington to John Dickinson, 28 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Dickinson, John

                            Sir
                             Morris Town March 28th 1782

                        I lately gave permission for two Vessells to proceed as Flags of Truce from New York to Wilmington with
                            Cloathing & necessaries for the British and Hessian Prisoners confined in Philadelphia and Lancaster. I thought it
                            proper to give your Excellency this information that such measures as you may think proper may be taken to prevent any
                            improper intercourse between the Flags & the Inhabitants.
                        The persons who have charge of the Cloathing (who are mentioned in their passports) will I suppose want
                            Waggons to transport it to the places of delivery they will pay the expence and I could wish that they might not be
                            imposed on in that respect. I have the honor to be Sir Your Excellencys Most Obedt hum. Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Hanson, 28 March 1782
From: Hanson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            St Croix 28th March 1782

                        It is with the greatest Pleasure and Satisfaction that I congratulate you on the happy Events that have
                            happened in America by the Reduction and Captivity of Lord Cornwallis & his Army; it was reasonable to suppose
                            that such an Event would have proved a cautious Lesson to Men who were not lost to all Sense of feeling and humanity and
                            that America would have been left to feel the rising Joys of Peace and Tranquility, and be no more savaged by a sett of
                            Banditti; but my good friend, it is my Duty from a sincere Love and Attachment to my Country and for Affection and
                            friendship for you and all my fellow Citizens, to give you my Opinion upon the Matter from the best Information I can
                            receive from England, Copenhagen and the windward Islands that you may be prepared.
                        The Resolution of the british Cabinet was no longer to carry on an internal War in America nor to suffer
                            their Armies to march into the Country but to fortify New York and place a strong Garrison there, Charles Town the same,
                            and to occupy again Rhode Island and fortify that, to keep a sufficient number of Cruizers to distress the American Trade,
                            all their Troops extra were to be sent to the West Indies with the heavy Ships; this System which would have been attended
                            with the best Success to us, has been since the arrival of Lord Cornwallis & the Traitor Arnold totally changed,
                            they have jointly impeached Sir Harry Clinton who is recalled, it is said Lord Cornwallis will have the sole Command when
                            exchanged, Arnold is knighted and to have a very large Command, some say of six or seven thousand regular Troops to be
                            employed on purpose for devastation and ruining the Country where he
                            Connecticut and Virginia are said to be the two States where this cruel Scene is to be acted. An abandoned administration
                            have at last found a Tool in the Parricide Arnold to execute their hellish Plots; but that Almighty
                            Providence which guards Innocence I hope will deliver him into the hands of his much injured Country, and by your being
                            timely cautioned, every one will be prepared to put a stop to his Incursions—You will please to communicate this to our
                            worthy Commander in Chief. If this Information proves of any Utility it will give great Satisfaction to your Sincere
                            friend & humble Servt

                            John Hanson


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 28 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry,Morris, Gouverneur

                            Gentlemen
                            Morris Town March 28th 1782

                        I have had intimations, that under the idea of the cessation of Hostilities within certain limits, a number
                            of People intend to come over from New York to our Lines—to prevent all intercourse of this kind is the principal design
                            of this Letter—Sir Wm Howe on a former occasion proposed that a neutrality should take place to a certain distance from
                            the spot where our Commissioners were to assemble, in order that they might not meet with any interruption in the
                            transaction of their business, from the hostilities & alarms which might otherwise have happened in the Neighbourhood of
                            them—It was upon this principle & for this reason, the present proposal was made on my part; nor was it intended or could
                            be construed to extend any farther.
                        It is therefore my particular desire that no Persons coming from the Enemy may be permitted to land, except the
                            Commissioners & those immediately connected with them. And as I think it expedient not only to prevent new Channels of
                            communication with the Enemy from being opened; but as far as practicable to shut the former; I could wish you would take
                            the trouble to inform yourselves of the practice of sending & receiving Flags on the Lines & point out such
                            alterations & regulations as you shall deem proper to prevent the evils which have been complained of, as resulting from
                            too frequent an intercourse with the Enemy. I have been informed by the Commissy of Prisoners, that the Enemy are
                            preparing to send out a considerable quantity of goods under the sanction of passports granted by me for bringing out
                            Cloathing & necessaries for the use of their Prisoners—This is so contrary to my intention, & may be productive of
                            such ill consequence, that I have sent Col. Smith to explain the matter to you & to request you will examine the List
                            & signify what Articles should be considered as necessaries & what quantity ought to be permitted to be sent out—Mr
                            Skinner is directed to give you the necessary information; he will also explain to you the mode which has prevailed of
                            making partial exchanges, this subject I need not recommend particularly, as it is comprehended within the limits of your
                            Commission. I have the honor to be.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 28 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                            Dear Sir
                            Morris Town March 28th 1782

                        Upon my arrival at this place, I found complaints that the Jersey Brigade had not been regularly supplied;
                            and was informed by the Commanding Officer that the Person to whom the contract is formed out attributed this irregularity
                            to the want of Money—I accordingly called upon Mr Logan the Sub. contractor (& only ostensible character here) to
                            give me his reasons in writing why the troops were not more regularly furnished with provisions—Altho his Answer does not
                            appear to be very accurate, or to inform from whence the want of Money originates; I thought it my duty to enclose it to
                            you; especially as I am informed the New York Brigade, has not been so regularly supplied as the Jersey Troops; as I
                            know your fixed determination to make good the terms of the contract on your part, and to compel the contractors to
                            comply with it punctually on theirs, in such a manner as that there shall not be the least ground for complaint in the
                            Army. I have the honor to be Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 28 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Sir
                            Morris Town March 28 1782

                        Upon the application of the Magistrates of Morris County in 1780, soliciting that repairs should be made to
                            the Court House, which had been made use of as a Guard House, and considerably injured by the public service, I gave them
                            encouragement that the damages would be examined into, and such compensation should be made as justice required, and the
                            state of the public Finance would admit of—I have now to request that you will cause the damages done by the Public to
                            that Building, to be estimated as equitably as may be; that measures may be taken, whenever the Finances of the Continent
                            will allow of it, to repair the injuries, or make compensation in some other way. I am Sir With great regard Your Most
                            Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Gouverneur Morris, 29 March 1782
From: Morris, Gouverneur,Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Elizabeth town 29 March 1782

                        Colo. Smith delivered your Excellency’s Letter of the twenty eighth, between four and five Yesterday
                            Afternoon. You mention having had Intimations, that under the Idea of the Cessation of Hostilities a Number of People
                            intend to come over from New York to our Lines, and express your particular Desire that no Persons coming from the Enemy
                            may be permitted to Land, except the Commissioners and those immediately connected with them. The bad Weather of Yesterday
                            prevented those Gentlemen from coming hither, & we expect them to Day. We have desired Captain Dayton to suffer no
                            Persons to land except those who come in the Vessel with the Commissioners; presuming that this is the best Line of
                            Distinction which can at present be drawn.
                        We are much inclined to doubt the Truth of the Information your Excellency has received. The Situation of the
                            Enemy is such as would naturally induce Caution in permitting Persons to come hither whose discretion as well as
                            fidelity, they are not perfectly assured of. And when our relative circumstances are considered, it must be evident that a
                            reciprocal Communication would probably preponderate in our favor. facts, as far as they have come to our Knowledge,
                            justify this Reasoning; and there is an additional force derived to it from the Consideration that they have had, and
                            (untill Regulations are made which neither Congress nor their Servants are entirely competent to) will have a constant
                            Intercourse with this Country while we cannot derive that Benefit from it which we now may by having here Characters in
                            whom we can confide such as Colo. Ogden.
                        There are several Persons whom we may perhaps see here, and whom it is of infinite Importance to see; but
                            who would be suspected on Admittance after a strong Line of Discrimination had been drawn. We have, for Instance, a strong
                            Probability of gaining some of the Enemy’s Pilots. one of the best of them whose name is Morris was unfortunately taken
                            prisoner the Day before Yesterday and will come from Brunswick this Day. On the whole we beg Leave to submit it to your
                            Excellency, whether it might not be better to wink at an Intercourse from which we may now derive Benefit, and which will
                            at other times subsist to our Prejudice. If however your Excellency should be of a different Opinion, we will rigidly
                            comply with your Wishes, as far as possibly We can. We shall write to your Excellency upon the other Subjects of your
                            Letter by Colo. Smith who will wait here for the Purpose. We have the Honor to be with great Respect your Excellency’s most obedient &, humble Servant

                            H. Knox
                            Gouvr Morris


Title: To George Washington from Jedediah Huntington, 30 March 1782
From: Huntington, Jedediah
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir,
                            Norwich 30 March 1782

                        I did myself the Honor of writing your Excellency the 8th inst. since which I am requested to have a greater
                            Number of Officers to muster the Recruits. the Council of Safety wish to have one in each Militia Brigade, which are six.
                            whenever the Recruits are ready to march to Camp, some Officers and Sergeants will be wanted to conduct them; that Period
                            will not be before the 1st of May as the County Committees appointed to apportion the Quotas to the Towns, have not
                            finished that Business—I shall desire Col. Swift to send the proper Officers after obtaining your Excellency’s Permission.
                            Col. Trumbull will be able to give your Excellency full Information of every Thing from this State. I am, with the
                            greatest Esteem & Respect, your Excellency’s most obedient Servant

                            J. Huntington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 30 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                            My dear Sir,
                            York Hutts 30th Mar. 1782

                        You are too well acquainted with my opinion of certain characters in this State—especially one whom I am told
                            is now an attendant on you at Elizabeth Town—to need a repetition of it at this time; but I wish it were possible for you
                            to guard your Colleague against the arts, & the disadvantages which certainly will result from a free intercourse of
                            Sentiments with the person I allude to, on points, the knowledge of which, can avail the B. Commissioners.
                        I have every reason short of positive proof, to believe the person here meant, is a traitor to this
                            Country—that he is in  pay of the enemy—and that every piece of information which he can extract from Mr  will be communicated to the Comrs on the other side—Judge then how far
                            you will be able to carry points that depend upon secrecy, address, & good management. You will be, I have no
                            doubt, attended by other persons of similar characters—but none, for obvious reasons, so dangerous.
                        You will readily perceive that this is a confidential letter, written for the best of purposes—I need not add
                            how much I am. Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affecte Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 31 March 1782
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                            Antony March the 31st 1782

                        We have Certain Intelligence, My dear General, that Lord North is out of place. He Has Himself Announced that
                            event in Parliament, and Said a New Minister Whould Be Named in the Course of two or three days. It is Generally Believed
                            Marquis de Rockingam will Replace Him—Charles Fox is likely to get into Administration, and there will not be Better
                            principles to be found in the New Ministry than in the former—Can those people think that By Covering the trap with new
                            Leaves they May Better take in the people of America?
                        Having felt the pulse of france, they will do the same with America—I am glad of it, Because it will give
                            Congress an opportunity to Appear to Advantage.
                        Adieu, My dear General, let me once more tell you that with the Highest Respect, with all the tenderness and
                            warmth of a Heart devoted to you I Have the Honor to be Your most obedient servant and for ever affectionate friend

                            Lafayette


Title: Matthias Ogden’s Plan for Capturing British Officers in New York, March 1782
From: Ogden, Matthias
To:

                             March 1782

                        Plan &ca.It will be necessary to have four Whale Boats well man’d by good Oars Men; of their different crews, including Guides: beside these, a Captain, Sub, 3 Sergts & 36 chosen Men;
                            with whom the boats can row with ease.
                        N.B. It is known where the Boats are, & that they can be collected without suspicion, with the Oarsmen,
                            & it is taken, or granted the owners will not object to the Boats going, tho for fear of giving cause of
                            suspecting the design nothing has as yet been said to them.
                        The time of embarkation must be the first wet night after we are in readiness; the
                            place is not yet agreed on, as it will be necessary to consult, those who have a perfect knowledge of what, boats can do, the
                            passage, tides &c. least they might draw inferences from such enquireys; this matter must be put off as long as
                            possible. We must however embark at such part of the Jersey shore as will give time to land in the City by half past nine.
                        The Men must be embarked in the order of their debarkation.
                        The Prince quarters in Hannover Square, in the large house of Batemans, & has two Centinals from the
                            40th British Rgt quartered in Lord Stirlings House in Broad Street, 200 Yards from the scene of
                            action—The Main Guard consisting of a Capt. & 40 Men is posted in the City Hall.
                        A sergt & 12 at the head of the old ship.
                        A sergt & 12 faceing the Coffee House—these are the nearest Men in arms—& must be guarded
                            against.
                        The place of landing at Cointres Market which is between the two sergts Guards.
                        The order of debarkation to agree with the mode of attack as follows.
                        First—Two Men with a guide seconded by two others for the purpose of seizing the Centinels, these men to be
                            armed with Bayonets, & Clad in sailors habit—they are to proceed immediately on their landing and execute their
                            orders.
                        Second, Eight Men; preceded by four with two Axes & two Crow bars, for the purpose of forcing the
                            Doors should they be fast, these men likewise in sailors dress, followed by four Men with Guns & Bayonets who are
                            to secure the entry & cut off all communication of servants—the eight men are to be armed with Pistols &
                            Cutlasses, whose duty it will be to seize on the Persons of the Young Prince, the Young Nobleman, the Admiral &
                            with their papers if to be seized & bring them off as soon as possible.
                        Third—A Captain & 18 Men, to follow briskly, form at the House; & defend it
                            untill the business is finished.
                        Fourth The subaltern with the remainder of the soldiers, & one half of the remainder of the Oars–Men,
                            to form on the right & left of the Boats, & defend them untill our return. The
                            remainder of the Oars–men to keep the Boats for the best position for embarking.
                        The manner of return as follows. Six men from the Captains, with those unemployed in carrying off the
                            Prisoners; to precede those engaged in that business—followed by the Capt. & his party, joined by the four men
                            from the entry; at half Gun shot distance, covering the embarkation in the following order
                        first the Prisoners, & attendants.
                        Second. the Boatmen.
                        Third. the Subalterns—Then himself & party.
                        Two or three dark Lanthorns, will be wanting; with the Sailors cloathing & 2
                            doz. pair of pistols.


Title: To George Washington from David Brooks, 1 April 1782
From: Brooks, David
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Newburgh April the 1st 1782

                        I am sorry to trouble your Excellency immediately upon your Arrival; but some matters of considerable Import
                            to the Army and ourselves, that we have not been able to get determined hitherto, induces me to lay them thus early before
                            your Excellency, that they may be decided upon as soon as possible.
                        The first & most considerable object is the Clothing furnished by the State of Massachusetts—which we
                            have not yet been able to get into our possession. This has added considerably to the Embarrassments we laboured under in
                            Clothing the Army in this Quarter; As it remained uncertain whether the general Court of Massachusetts would comply with
                            the Resolution of Congress; so we were at a loss to determine whether to reckon the whole of
                            that clothing in their Quota or none of it. We preceeded however, to
                            make an equal distribution of the Clothing in store, except the blue Cloth for Coats; of this
                            we had not a sufficiency to compleat the Massachusetts and Connecticut Lines: Therefore we conceived it consistent with
                            the strictest principles of Justice to compleat the Connecticut Line who had no References in their Hands, and let the
                            Deficiency fall upon the Massachusetts Line whose State Clothier had 2000 suits of Uniforms, besides a Considerable
                            quantity of other Clothing in his possession.
                        The N. Hampshire, N. York & N. Jersey Lines & the 10th Massachussetts & Invalid
                            Regiments are compleatly clothed with the British dyed coats, which we have the pleasure of informing your Excellency are
                            of very good quality & have not received the least injury in colouring. As some of the troops refused taking the
                            British Coats on account of their Colour & others (though without Reason as time will demonstrate) raised a Report
                            that they were rotted in dying, all agreed, previous to the delivery that the British Hats & Breeches should go
                            with the coats, as compensation for the real & imaginary defect in Colour and quality.
                            These Hats will about suffice those Lines, & for what the Breeches fell short we have delivered Cloth &
                            materials to compleat them to a pair per man: so that the Lines & Regts above mentioned are supplied with a Coat,
                            Vest, Overalls, Breeches, two pair of Hose, hat, One Shirt and as many shoes as their Necessities from time to time
                            Required; the Connecticut Line have received equal with the above, except the Hats, Breeches & one pair of
                            hose—and the Massachusetts Line have received equal with the Connecticut except in the article of Coats, of which they
                            have received about 260 per Regiment. What they are lacking must be Supplied out of the 2000 Coats at present in the hands
                            of their State Clothier at Fishkill Landing.
                        The Materials delivered to the Regiments being almost all made up, we are ready to deliver the Cloth for
                            Breeches to the Massachusetts & Connecticut Lines, but as we shall Not have a sufficiency without including the
                            2000 pairs in the State Clothier’s hands, & as I understand those Breeches are Buff-coloured It is Necessary to know what Troops or Regiments shall have them, before we can
                            deliver the Cloth we have in store: This we would wish to be done immediately, least the Workmen be out of Business.
                        Sometime ago the State Clothier for Massachussetts undertook to distribute the Clothing in his hands
                            & three of the Regiments received their Quotos; but the secretary at War arriving the same day at General Heath’s
                            put a Stop to his proceeding, & I believe the Regts have distributed but a few of the Articles.
                        A second grievance we would wish redressed relates to myself & the other Persons in our Department
                            here.
                        Congress not having determined the Pay Rations, &ca of the Clothier General’s Department & it
                            being omitted in the Instructions given by the Secretary at War
                            & Financier to the Contractors, We have drawn No Revisions for these two Months past;
                            this is peculiarly hard as we are unfurnished with Many, and have been very busily engaged (under a good many
                            Embarrassments) in Clothing the Army here. I stated the Facts and applied repeatedly to Major General
                            Heath on this Subject; He acknowledged the propriety of the Request & professed he would willingly grant it; but
                            unless we could produce a Resolve of Congress to found his order upon he could not without running the Risque of Censure;
                            He referred me to your Excellency on the subject, but I was unwilling to trouble you at such a Distance—and I hoped before
                            this time Congress would have found Lieusure to have fixed the Pay & other Emoluments of our Department; but as
                            they have not & as the Inconvenience presses rather too hard upon us, I am compelled against my feelings to
                            trouble your Excellency upon the occasion. All I desire is to obtain an Order on the Contractors for
                            such a Number of Rations for Myself and the several persons in our office & store as may enable us to subsist
                            & perform the Business of the public, until our Department shall be finally established by Congress. I have the
                            honour to be, with the greatest Respect & Esteem your Excellency’s Most obedient & very humble Servant

                            D. Brooks
                            Ast Clo. Gen.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 1 April 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                        Dear General,

                            Head quarters, Highlands April 1. 1782

                        This will be presented by colonel Putnam of the 5th Massachusetts regiment, who will solicit your permission
                            to be absent from the army for a short time. He was some time since appointed one of the arbitrators to ascertain the
                            quantity of forage consumed by the allied army in West Chester county the last campaign, which has detained him, and will
                            again require his attention on the 20th of May next. As your Excellency’s orders enjoin all officers to be with their
                            corps by the 10th instant, I dare not presume to grant leave of absence to any beyond that period; but as colonel Putnam
                            early mentioned to me the necessity of visiting his family and attending to some private business before the campaign
                            opens, I am led to request your indulgence to him.
                        As soon as I hear of your Excellency’s arrival at Newburgh, I shall repair there, and have the honor of paying
                            my respects. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Alexander McDougall, 1 April 1782
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            West point April 1st 1782

                        I have been extremely reluctant to trouble your Excellency while you were at Philadelphia, least I might draw
                            your attention from public Objects of more moment, than the Case of an Individual. The same Consideration still influences me, till you are settled in your Quarters; But as I am apprehensive,
                            Major General Heath may immediately apply for leave of Absence from the Army, I am constrained thus early to inform your
                            Excellency, that I have demanded of him, a more particular Specification of the Charges of my Arrest, in order that I
                            might with propriety plead to them, or admit them and justify; but I have not been able to obtain this however reasonable
                            and just in itself—And I have a number of important Charges to prefer against him, which highly concern the Army and the
                            service. Whether it is proper in my present Condition to exhibit these against him now, must be left to the Commander in
                            Chief—I shall take the Liberty of transmitting them tomorrow, with my Reasons for insisting on a more explicit
                            Specification of the Charges. If this is not complied with, before he leaves the Army, it will delay the Trial; to many of
                            them I cannot plead in their present form:it would be an Insult to my understanding as a freeman and an Officer.
                        I therefore beg he may not have Leave of Absence, till the Charges are as particular as they ought to be.
                        Hearing that your Excellency has arrived to day, I have taken the Liberty to trouble you with this address; And
                            have the Honor to be with great Truth Your most Obedient & most humble Servant

                            Alex: McDougall


Title: From George Washington to Alexander McDougall, 1 April 1782
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Newburg April 1st 1782

                        Major General Heath has made no application for leave of absence. The other parts of your Letter, of this
                            date I shall be better able to decide upon when the reasons and charges, which are proposed as the subject of another
                            letter, are exhibited. I am Sir Your very hum. servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 1 April 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Newburgh April 1st 1782

                        I received on my way from Philadelphia your favor of the 23d of March respecting the allowance of Servants to
                            Officers in Your Department; I have taken the earliest opportunity of communicating to the Secretary at War my sentiments
                            on the subject, and am with great regard Sir Your Most Obedt Servant
                        Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Ezra Stiles, 1 April 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Stiles, Ezra

                            Sir,
                            Newburgh April 1st 1782

                        On my way from Philadelphia to this place, I had the pleasure to receive your favor of the 20th of March,
                            covering an Oration delivered by Mr Tutor Meigs on the Surrender of Lord Cornwallis—I entreat, you will make that Gentleman
                            sensible of the high gratification I have received from his ingenious performance; and that you Will be convinced of the
                            ardent passion I have for the promotion of the cause of Literature in general, and especially of the pleasure I feel in
                            the encreasing reputation & utility of the Seat of Learning under your immediate
                            direction—with every Sentiment of personal regard I have the honor to be Sir Yr Most Obedt Se

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Franklin, 2 April 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Passy, April 2. 1782

                        I received duly the Honour of your Letter accompanying the Capitulation of Gen. Cornwallis. All the World
                            agree that no Expedition was ever better plann’d or better executed. It has made a great Addition to the military—Reputation you had already acquired, and brightens the Glory that surrounds your Name and that must accompany it to our
                            latest Posterity. No News could possibly make me more happy. The Infant Hercules has now strangled the two Serpents that
                            attack’d him in his Cradle, and I trust his future History will be answerable.
                        This will be presented to you by the Count de Segur. He is Son of the Marquis de Segur—Minister of War, and
                            our very good Friend. But I need not claim your Regards to the young Gentleman on that Score; his amiable personal
                            Qualities, his very sensible Conversation and his Zeal for the Cause of Liberty will obtain & secure your Esteem,
                            and be better Recommendation than any I can give him.
                        The English seem not to know either how to continue the War, or to make Peace with us. Instead of entring
                            into a regular Treaty, for putting an End to a Contest they are tired of, they have voted in Parliament that the Recovery
                            of America by Force is impracticable, that an offensive War against us ought not to be continued, and that whoever advises
                            it shall be deemed an Enemy to his Country.
                        Thus the Garrisons of New York and Charlestown, if continued there, must sit still, being only allowed to
                            defend themselves. The Ministry not understanding or approving this making of Peaces by halves, have quitted their Places,
                            but we have no certain Account here who is to succeed them, so that the Measures likely to be taken are yet uncertain:
                            probably we shall know—something of them before the Marquis de la Fayette takes his Departure. There are Grounds for good
                            Hopes however, but I think we should not therefore relax in our Preparations for a vigorous Campaign, as that Nation is
                            subject to Sudden Fluctuations; and tho’ somewhat humiliated at present, a little Success in the West Indies may dissipate
                            their present Fears, recal their natural Insolence, and occasion the Interruption of Negociation & a Continuance
                            of the War. We have great Stores purchased here for the use of your Army, which will be sent as soon as Transport can be
                            procured for them to go under good Convoy. My best Wishes always have and always will attend you, being with the greatest
                            and most Sincere Esteem & Respect, Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant

                            B. Franklin