Title: General Orders, 17 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Before York Wednesday October 17. 1781
                     Parole Philadelphia
                     Countersigns Chester  Wilmington

                  For the Trenches tomorrow
                  Major General LincolnBrigadier General ClintonMajor General Lincoln’s division will mount in the trenches tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to John Blair, 17 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Blair, John

                     Sir
                     Camp before York 17th Octo. 1781

                  Your Letter of the 15th has been received.  You may be assured Sir that nothing but absolute Necessity could induce me to occupy the College with its adjoing Buildings for Military Purposes—I am very sorry to say that the Number of our Sick & Wounded are increasing so fast that Room cannot be found for their Cover & Convenience—In these Circumstances I am persuaded that Mr Bellini will be ready to give up the house you mention—especially as I observed many of the Articles are easily removeable—& some of the most Lumbersome may be secured abroad.  I flatter myself also that the good People of this Part of the Country will the more readily submit to a partial & temporary Inconvenience, when they have Reason to hope, that the Close of our present Operations will place them in a State of Quiet & Security—which I trust will be lasting.  I am &c.

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Charles Cornwallis, 17 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Cornwallis, Charles

                     My Lord
                     Camp before York 17th Octo. 1781.

                  I have had the Honor of receiving Your Lordships Letter of this Date.
                  An ardent Desire to spare the further Effusion of Blood, will readily incline me to listen to such Terms for the Surrender of your Post & Garrisons at York & Gloucester, as are admissible.
                  I wish, previous to the Meeting of Commissioners, that Your Lordships Proposals in Writing, may be sent to the American Lines: for which Purpose, a Suspension of Hostilities during two Hours from the Delivery of this Letter will be granted—I have the Honor to be My Lord Your Lordship’s Most Obedient and most humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Charles Cornwallis, 17 October 1781
From: Cornwallis, Charles
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     York in Virginia 17th October 1781 1/2 past 4 P.M.

                  I have this moment been honoured with your Excellency’s letter dated this day.
                  The time limited for sending my answer will not admit of entering into the detail of Articles, but the basis of my proposals will be that the Garrisons of York and Gloucester shall be prisoner’s of War with the Customary honours, And for the convenience of the individuals which I have the honour to Command, that the British shall be sent to Britain, and the Germans to Germany, under the engagement not to serve against France, America or their Allies untill released or regularly exchanged.  That all Arms and publick Stores shall be delivered up to you, but that the usual indulgence of side Arms to officers and of retaining private property shall be granted to Officers & Soldiers, and that the interests of several individuals in Civil Capacities & connected with us, shall be attended to.  If Your Excellency thinks that a continuance of the suspension of hostilities will be necessary to transmit your Answer I shall have no objections to the hour that you propose.  I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedient & most humble Servant

                     Cornwallis


Title: To George Washington from Mordecai Gist, 17 October 1781
From: Gist, Mordecai
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Camp 17 Octr 1781

                  The bearer Ensign Menikin waits on Your Excellency for permission to resign.  he is the Gentleman whose case I represented to you Yesterday.  and his Services in the Army can be disposed with without prejudice to the Regiment.  I have the Honor to be Yr Excellency’s Mo. obdt Servt

                     M. Gist


Title: To George Washington from François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 17 October 1781
From: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de
To: Washington, George

                  Monsieur
                      le 17. 8bre 1781. à 11. heures du soir. à 11 heures du soir

                  je reçois à l’instant la lettre dont Votre Excellence m’a honoré, et qui m’a fait d’autant plus de plaisir que je n’esperois pas que les choses fussent aussi avancées.  J’ai êté surpris d’une maniere bien agréable, et si quelque chose a contrarié ma joie, c’est de ne pouvoir aller moy même vous embrasser et vous faire mon compliment sur vos succes et votre promptitude; Une indisposition assés forte m’en empêche, mais je supplie Votre Excellence de le recevoir avec bonté.  il est aussi sincere que le respecteux attachement avec lequel j’ai l’honneur d’etre De Votre Excellence Le três humble et três obeissant serviteur

                     Le Comte de Grasse


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 17 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                     SirHead Quarters Before York 17th October 1781.

                  I had yesterday Evening the honor of receiving your Excellency’s favor of the same date—sixteen Flat Boats will be ready to meet the ships whenever the Wind shall admit their ascending the River.  I cannot conceive the Reason why no more Pilots have gone down to you—The Governor sent immediately to those who were recommended by Capt. Lilly.
                  I do myself the honor to transmit your Excellency the Copy of a letter which I have just received from Lord Cornwallis.  I have informed him in answer thereto, that I wish him previous to the meeting of Commisss. to send his proposals in writing to the American lines—for which purpose a cessation of Hostilities for two Hours will be allowed.
                  I should be anxious to have the honor of your Excellencys passionateparticipation in the treaty which will according to present appearances shortly take place—I need not add how happy it will make me to welcome Your Exce.  the name of America on this shore, and embrace you upon an occasion so advantageous to the interests of the common cause—and on which it is so much indebted to you.
                  Should naval reasons deprive me of the happiness, by requiring Yr Excellys presence on board I entreat that you will be pleased to appoint an officer to represent you—and take charge of the Capitulation to be signed by Yr Excellency.  I have


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 17 October 1781
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Office of Finance Octr 17th 1781.

                  I have had the Honor to receive your Excellency’s two several Letters, of the twenty seventh of September, and first, Instant.  The latter did not come to Hand untill nine oClock last Evening.  I have this Morning directed the Purchase of a quantity of Rum, and lament that I cannot possibly arrive as soon as you will stand in Need of it.  This must be attributed to the Delay of your Letter, which was truly unaccountable.  I shall direct it to be forwarded with all possible Expedition.
                  The Bill in your Favor, on Richards & Co. of New London, was inclosed in your Letter of the first Instant.  I am much obliged by your Promise to take Care of my Letter to Genl Greene, and pray you will accept my Thanks.
                  On the thirteenth of September, I had the Honor to remit your Excellency a Bill on David Ross Esqr. for the amount of one thousand & sixty six Dollars and two thirds.  I shall be glad to be informed by your Excellency if this Bill has been duly honored, and also whether you have received thirty Dollars mentioned in my Letter of the thirteenth of September, to be paid to you by Mr John May of Virginia.
                  I shall at all Times be very happy to hear from your Excellency and it will give me the greatest Pleasure to render you every possible Aid.  I sincerely wish that my abilities were equal to my Inclinations and as sincerely regret that I have little else besides Wishes to dispose of.  I do not perceive in the State, a Desire to furnish Revenue, on the contrary there is a Degree of Torpor and Lukewarmness which nothing can justify.  The very little Money which I can command is called for in a thousand different Ways, and must soon be exhausted.  However your Excellency has Cares enough, and I will not trouble you with my Perplexities.  With the greatest Esteem and Respect I am Your Excellency’s most obedient and humble Servant

                     Robt Morris


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to George Weedon, 17 October 1781
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Weedon, George

                     Dear SirHead Quarters before York 17th Octo. 1781.

                  His Excellency directs me to inform you; that he has just received Intelligence from a Deserter—who says that Lord Cornwallis with good Part of his Troops were last Night crossed over to Gloucester—the Soldiers takg with them on their Backs two or three Shirts each—& two or three ⅌ overhalls &ca—This Intelligence is extraordinary but as it comes from a Drunken fellow we dont know what Credit it requires—However We have thout  Well to inform you & desire you to have a particular Caution in your Observations—If any thing of the kind has fallen within your Notice—the General wishes to have Immediate Notice.
                  If the above Intelligence is entirely groundless, it may however be of use—the General this Day received a Letter by Flag from Ld Cornwallis, proposing a Cessation of Hostilities for 24 Hours & that 2 Officers from each Side might be appointed to meet at Moors House to consider on proposals for his Surrendry of the Ports of York & Glouster—An Answer is gone in—& we will soon know whether the whole is a farce—or if his Lordship is in earnest.  Your most Obedt

                     J. Trumbull Jr

               P.S. You will please to communicate this Intelligence to Genl .


Title: General Orders, 18 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Before York Thursday October 18th 1781
                     Parole France
                     Countersigns Versailles Paris

                  For the trenches tomorrow
                  Major General the Marqs de la FayetteBrigadiers Muhlenberg & HazenMajor General the Marqs de la Fayette’s division will mount in the trenches tomorrow.
                  After Orders.
                  This days relief of the Trenches is countermanded untill further Orders.


Title: From George Washington to Charles Cornwallis, 18 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Cornwallis, Charles

                     My Lord
                     Camp before York 18th October 1781

                  To avoid unnecessary discussions and delays, I shall, at once, in answer to your Lordships letters of yesterday, declare the general Basis upon which a definitive Treaty and Capitulation may take place.
                  The Garrisons of York & Gloucester, including the Seaman, as you propose, will be received prisoners of War.  The condition annexed, of sending the British and German Troops, to the parts of Europe to which they respectively belong is inadmissible.  Instead of this, they will be marched to such parts of the Country as can most conveniently provide for their subsistence, and the benevolent treatment of Prisoners, which is invaribly observed by the Americans, will be extended to them.  The same honours will be granted to the surrendering Army as were granted to the Garrison of Charlestown.
                  The Shipping and Boats in the two Harbours with all their Guns, Stores Tackling, Furniture and Apparel, shall be delivered in their present State, to an Officer of the Navy, appointed to take possession of them.
                  The Artillery Arms, Accoutrements Military Chest, and public Stores of every denomination, shall be delivered, unimpaired to the Heads of departments to which they respectively belong.
                  The Officers will be indulged in retaining their side Arms of the Officers & Soldiers may preserve their Baggage and Effects with this reserve, that property taken in the Country, will be reclaimed.
                  With regard to the Individuals in civil Capacities whose interest your Lordship wishes may be attended to; untill they are more particularly described, nothing definitive can be settled.
                  I have to add that I expect the sick and wounded will be supplied with their own Hospital Stores, and be tended by British Surgeons, particularly charged with the care of them.
                  Your Lordship will be pleased to signify your determination either to accept or reject the proposals now offered, in the course of two Hours from the delivery of this letter, that Commissioners may be appointed to digest the Articles of Capitulation, or a renewal of Hostilities may take place.  I have the honor to be My Lord Your Lordships Most obedient and humble servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Charles Cornwallis, 18 October 1781
From: Cornwallis, Charles
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     York in Virginia 18th Octo. 1781

                  I agree to open a Treaty of Capitulation upon the Basis of the Garrisons of York & Gloucester, including Seamen, being Prisoners of War, without annexing the Condition of their being sent to Europe, but I expect to receive a Compensation, in Arranging the Articles of Capitulation for the Surrender of York-Town in its present State of Defence.  I shall in particular desire that the Bonetta Sloop of War may be left entirely at my Disposal from the hour that the Capitulation is signed, to receive an Aide de Camp to carry my Dispaches to Sir Hry Clinton, and such Soldiers as I may think proper to send as passengers in her, to be manned with fifty Men of her own Crew, & to be permitted to sail without Examination, when my Dispaches are ready, Engaging on my Part, that the Ship shall be brought back & delivered to you, if she escapes the Dangers of the Sea, that the Crew & Soldiers sent as Passengers shall be accounted for in future Exchanges as prisoners, that she shall carry off no Officer without your Consent, nor public property of any kind; And I shall likewise Desire that the Traders and Inhabitants may preserve their Property, & that no person may be punished for having joined the British Troops.
                  If you chuse to proceed to Negociation on these Grounds, I shall appoint two field Officers of my Army, to meet two Officers from you at any Time & Place that you think proper, to digest the Articles of Capitulation. I have the Honor to be sir Your most Obedient and most humble Servant

                            Cornwallis


Title: To George Washington from Silvanus Seely, 18 October 1781
From: Seely, Silvanus
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Camp Connecticut Farms 18th October 1781

                  The Fleet I mentioned in mine of the l4th Consisting of 24 Ships of the line two 40 & a number of Frigates, sailed from the Hook yesterday about Ten in the Morning whether they have taken all the Troops I mentioned with them is uncertain but I believe they have, & they have undoubtedly taken between two & three thousand of their best Troops on board their Ships of War—I am Your Most obedt &c.

                     Silvs Seely Coll.


Title: To George Washington from William Smallwood, 18 October 1781
From: Smallwood, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir,
                     Annapolis October 18th 1781.

                  I was honored with your Favor dated the 6th Instant, and regret much that the Commands are so filled—and that Circumstances will not admit of my having the Pleasure of joining you in the Enterprize below—especially as I see no possibility of pushing the recruiting Service shortly, with any prospect of Success—for want of Specie, or some other Medium that would circulate, to engage the Men, if this and proper Supplies could be obtained, I think great advances might be made towards compleating our Quota; for  daily apply to enlist, and seem very desirous of engaging if the Money could be paid down; but the Circulation of our  Emission is entirely stopped, and there is not a Copper of Specie in the Treasury, by which means the recruiting Service is totally at a stand.
                  Our Legislative and Executive branches seem disposed to make every Effort, and have promised to obviate this Evil as soon as possible, and you may rest assured as soon as this can be effected, that no Exertions of mine shall abate in promoting this—Service to the utmost of my powers.
                  On the 13th a Detachment of upwards of one Hundred and sixty Men inclusive of those of the fifth Regiment—those of the third and fourth left in the Hospital and such Straglers as have been picked up, marched to join the Maryland Troops before York, there are one hundred and fifty nine Months Men, who shall be held ready to move agreeable to your Orders, they are fully armed and accounted, but want every sort of Cloathing Suitable tothe approaching Season and Operations below, which the State  any proposal of furnishing; however some of the Men have Cloathing at Home, to all such who can be depended on, and who can return  in the course of eight or ten Days, I propose furloughing to get their Cloathing,that they may be equipped in the best manner possible should their Service be required.  I have the honor to remain with very sincere Regard Your most Obedt Hble Servt

                     W. Smallwood


Title: General Orders, 19 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Before York Friday October 19th 1781
                     Parole Independence
                     Countersigns Rochambeau DeGrasse

                  For the Day tomorrow
                  Major General LincolnColonel ButlerMajor WoodsonInspector BleekerGeneral Muhlenberg’s Brigade will hold itself in readiness for duty tomorrow.


Title: Articles of Capitulation between Washington and Cornwallis, 19 October 1781
From: Washington, George,Cornwallis, Charles
To:

                      19 October 1781

                  Articles of Capitulation settled between His Excellency General Washington Commander in Chief of the combined Forces of America and France—His Excellency the Count de Rochambeau Lieutenant General of the Armies of the King of France—Great Cross of the Royal and Military Order of St Louis commanding the Auxiliary Troops of his Most Christian Majesty in America and His Excellency the Count de Grasse Lieutenant General of the Naval Armies of His Most Christian Majesty, Commander of the order of St Louis, Commanding in Chief the Naval Army of France in the Chesapeak—on the one part And His Excellency the Right Honble Earl Cornwallis Lt General of His Britannick Majesty’s forces, Commanding the Garrisons of York & Gloucester & Thomas Symonds Esqr. Commanding His Britannick Majesty’s Naval forces in York River in Virginia, on the other part.
                  Article 1st    The Garrisons of York and Gloucester including the Officers and Seamen of his Britannic Majesty’s Ships as well as other Mariners to surrender themselves prisoners of War to the combined forces of America and France.  The Land Troops to remain prisoners to the United States.  The Navy to the Naval Army of His Most Christian Majesty.

                     Article 1st answer  Granted.
                  Article 2d    The Artillery, Arms, Accouterments, Military Chest, and public Stores of every denomination shall be delivered unimpaired to the Heads of Departments appointed to receive them.

                     Article 2d answer  Granted.
                  Article 3d    At 12 O’Clock this day  the two Redoubts on the left Flank of York to be delivered—the one to a detachment of American Infantry—the other to a detachment of French Grenadiers—The Garrison of York will march out to a place to be appointed in front of the posts at 2 OClock precisely with shouldered Arms—Colours cased and Drums beating a British or German march.  They are then to ground their Arms, and return to their encampment where they will remain untill they are dispatched to the places of their destination.  Two Works on the Gloucester side will be delivered at one OClock to detachments of French and American Troops appointed to possess them.  The Garrison will march out at three OClock in the Afternoon—The Cavalry with their swords drawn—Trumpets sounding—And the Infantry in the manner prescribed for the Garrison of York.  They are likewise to return to their encampment untill they can be finally marched off.

                     Article 3d answer  Granted.
                  Article 4th    Officers are to retain their Side Arms Both Officers and Soldiers to keep their private property of every kind, and no part of their Baggage or papers to be at any time subject to search or inspection.  The Baggage and papers of Officers and Soldiers taken during the Seige to be likewise preserved for them.
                  It is understood that any property obviously belonging to the inhabitants of these States, in the possession of the Garrison, shall be subject to be reclaimed.

                     Article 4th answer  Granted.
                  Article 5th    The Soldiers to be kept in Virginia, Maryland or Pennsylvania, and as much by Regiments as possible, and supplied with the same Rations of provision as are allowed to Soldiers in the service of America; A Field Officer from each Nation, to wit British—Anspach and Hessian, and other Officers on parole, in the proportion of one to fifty Men, to be allowed to reside near their respective Regiments, to visit them frequently and be witnesses of their treatment—And that these Officers may receive and deliver Cloathing and other necessaries for them, for which Passports are to be granted when applied for.
                  Article 5th
                     answer  Granted.
                  Article 6th    The General–Staff and other Officers not employed as mentioned in the above Articles, and who chuse it, to be permitted to go on parole to Europe, to New York, or to any other American maritime posts at present in the possession of the British Forces at their own option, and proper Vessels to be granted by the Count de Grasse to carry them under Flags of Truce to New York within ten days from this date, if possible, and they to reside in a district to be agreed upon hereafter until they embark.  The Officers of the civil departments of the Army and Navy to be included in this Article.  Passports to go by land to be granted to them to whom Vessels cannot be furnished.
                  Article 6th
                     answer  Granted.
                  Article 7th    Officers to be allowed to keep Soldiers as servants according to the common practice of the service.  Servants not Soldiers are not to be considered as prisoners, and are to be allowed to attend their Masters.
                  Article 7th
                     answer  Granted.
                  Article 8th    The Bonetta Sloop of War to be equipped and navigated by its present Captain and Crew, and left intirely at the disposal of Ld Cornwallis from the hour that the capitulation is signed, to receive an Aide de Camp to carry dispatches to Sir Henry Clinton—and such Soldiers as he may think proper to send to New York to be permitted to sail without examination when his dispatches are ready.  His Lordship engaging on his part that the Ship shall be delivered to the order of the Count de Grasse, if she escapes the dangers of the Seas—That she shall not carry off any public Stores—Any part of the Crew that may be deficient on her return, and the soldiers passengers to be accounted for on her delivery.
                  Article 8th
                     answer  Granted.
                  Article 9th    The traders are to preserve their property and to be allowed three Months to dispose of or remove them—and those traders are not to be considered as prisoners of War.

                     Article 9th answer  The Traders will be allowed to dispose of their effects, The Allied Army having the right of pre–emption.  The Traders to be considered as prisoners of War upon parole.
                  Article 10th    Natives or Inhabitants of different parts of this Country at present in York or Gloucester are not to be punished on account of having joined the British Army.

                     Article 10th answer  This Article cannot be assented to, being altogether of civil Resort.
                  Article 11th    proper Hospitals to be furnished for the sick and wounded.  They are to be attended by their own Surgeons on parole, and they are to be furnished with Medicines and Stores from the American Hospitals.

                     Article 11th answer  The Hospital Stores now in York and Gloucester shall be delivered for the use of the British sick & wounded. passports will be granted for procuring them further supplies from New York as occasion may require: And proper Hospitals will be furnished for the reception of the sick and wounded of the two Garrisons.
                  Article 12th    Waggons to be furnished to carry the Baggage of the Officers attending the Soldiers and to Surgeons when travelling on account of the sick—attending the Hospitals at public expence.

                     Article 12th answer  They will be furnished if possible.
                  Article 13th    The Shipping and Boats in the two Harbors with all their Stores—Guns—Tackling and Apparel shall be delivered up in their present State to an Officer of the Navy appointed to take possession of them—previously unloading the private property, part of which had been on Board for security during the Seige.

                     Article 13th answer  Granted.
                  Article 14th    No Article of the Capitulation to be infringed on pretext of reprisal, and if there be any doubtful expressions in it, they are to be interpreted according to the common meaning and acceptation of the Words.

                     Article 14th answer  Granted.
                  Done in the Trenches before York October 19th 1781.

                            Go: Washington

                        Cornwallis
                  le cte de rochambeauThos Symonds:le cte de barras en mon nom et celui du cte de grasse


Title: To George Washington from Claude Gabriel, marquis de Choisy, 19 October 1781
From: Choisy, Claude Gabriel, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                      19th Octob. 1781 at two O Clock

                  Your Excellency’s both letters by duplicata I received in this moment, I shall conform in all points to your orders.  The Colonel Tarleton who was hier just now told me that he expected the articles of the Capitulation before he surrendered.  I hope like wise your excellency will acquaint me with them.  I have the honnor to be with the greatest respect Your Excellencys most obedient servant

                     Choisy


Title: From George Washington to Claude Gabriel, marquis de Choisy, 19 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Choisy, Claude Gabriel, marquis de

                  Sir,

                     Camp before York 19th Oct. 1781

                  Late this Evening I was honored with your favr of this date—without delay, & in much haste I inclose you a copy of such articles of the Capitulation as are immediately & essentially necessary for your Government. With much esteem and Respect I am Sir Yr Most Obt Ser.

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 19 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                     SirHead Quarters before York 19th October 1781.

                  Your Excellencys letter of the 17th redoubles my affliction at being deprived of the happiness of embracing you on Shore, by informing me that a violent indisposition is the cause—I entreat Yr Excelly to accept the sincere and ardent vows which I make for your recovery and the preservation of a Health so dear to our two Nations—I would not delay a moment to wait upon Yr Excellency, and assure you in person of all my regret on this occssion, if the definitive signature of the Capitulation which I expect will take place to day—did not deprive me of the power.
                  I have read with attention the intelligence which has been transmitted to Yr Excelly thro the Channels of Genl Heath & Govr Lee—at the same time that I approve the precaution of those Gentlemen in communicating every intelligence that relates to the Enemys movements—I beg leave to assure Yr Excelly—that I have not the least disquiet on the subject knowing by experience how doubtful such relations generally are.  It appears to me above all improbable that an expedition in the Jerseys shd be undertaken concomitantly with the pretended one against Yr Excellencys fleet.
                  Mr de Grandchain assisted yesterday in digesting the Articles of Capitulation; as soon as this business is terminated I propose to do myself the honor of waiting upon Yr Excelly on board.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 19 October 1781
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                      9 OClock evening of the 19th October 1781

                  I have just received my dear General an inaccurate report of the Cannon & Mortars which are in York, and which amount to 170 sixty five of which are brass—The extreme confusion in that place has prevented my officers being more particular at present, but I hope tomorrow to render a more certain account to your Excellency.  Knowing Colonel Tilghmans destination I thought even this important sketch might be of use.  No account has been received of Note at Gloucester.  I am with such respect & affection Your Excellencys Obedient Servant

                     H. Knox


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 19 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters near York 19th Octo. 1781.

                  I have the Honor to inform Congress, that a Reduction of the British Army under the Command of Lord Cornwallis, is most happily effected—The unremitting Ardor which actuated every Officer & Soldier in the combined Army on this Occasion, has principally led to this Important Event, at an earlier period than my most sanguine Hopes had induced me to expect.
                  The singular Spirit of Emulation, which animated the whole Army from the first Commencement of our Operations, has filled my Mind with the highest pleasure & Satisfaction—and had given me the happiest presages of Success.
                  On the 17th instant, a Letter was received from Lord Cornwallis, proposing a Meeting of Commissioners, to consult on Terms for the Surrender of the Posts of York & Gloucester—This Letter (the first which had passed between us) opened a correspondence, a copy of which I do myself the Honor to inclose that Correspondence was followed by the Definitive Capitulation, which was agreed to, & Signed on the 19th Copy of which is also herewith transmitted—and which, I hope, will meet the Approbation of Congress.
                  I should be wanting in the feelings of Gratitude, did I not mention on this Occasion, with the warmest Sense of Acknowlegments, the very chearfull & able Assistance, which I have received in the Course of our Operations, from his Excellency the Count de Rochambeau, and all his Officers of every Rank, in their respective Capacities.  Nothing could equal this Zeal of our Allies, but the emulating Spirit of the American Officers, whose ardor would not suffer their Exertions to be exceeded.
                  The very uncommon Degree of Duty & Fatigue which the Nature of the Service required from the officers of Engineers & Artillery of both Armies, obliges me particularly to mention the Obligations I am under to the Commanding & other Officers of those Corps.
                  I wish it was in my Power to express to Congress, how much I feel myself indebted to The Count de Grasse and the Officers of the Fleet under his Command, for the distinguished Aid and Support which has been afforded by them; between whom, & the Army, the most happy Concurrence of Sentiments & Views have subsisted, and from whom, every possible Co-operation has been experienced, which the most harmonious Intercourse could afford.
                  Returns of the Prisoners, Military Stores, Ordnance, Shipping & other Matters, I shall do myself the Honor to transmit to Congress, as soon as they can be collected by the Heads of Departments, to which they belong.
                  Colo. Laurens & the Viscount de Noailles, on the Part of the combined Army, were the Gentlemen who acted as Commissioners for formg & settg the Terms of Capitulation & Surrender herewith transmitted—to whom I am particularly obliged for their Readiness & Attention exhibited on the Occasion.
                  Colo. Tilghman, one of my Aids de Camp, will have the Honor to deliver these dispatches to your Excellency—He will be able to inform you of every minute Circumstance which is not particularly mentioned in my Letter.  His Merits, which are too well known to need any observations at this Time, have gained my particular Attention——& I could wish that they may be honored by the Notice of your Excellency & Congress.
                  Your Excellency & Congress will be pleased to accept my Congratulations on this happy Event, & believe me to be with the highest Respect & Esteem Sir Your Excellencys Most Obedient and most humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 19 October 1781
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Philada Octr 19th 1781

                  Should an opportunity offer Mr Ridley will present before you my two Sons who have the ambition to pay their Compts. to you, before their departure for Europe, where they are now destined under the care and protection of that gentleman untill he can place them with their Tutors.  I consider the step I have taken as advantageous to them, and also of some Public consequence, because if the example is followed and it becomes the practice to Educate American Youths in France, Habitual attachments will strengthen those ties of affection which in gratitude is due from this to that Country.
                  I have written to His Excy Count de Grasse excusing myself for depending on a passage on one of His Majesties Ships.  Shou’d you have an opportunity of adding a Word on the Subject, it will procure to Mr Ridley & the Boys the favourable attention of the Commander they go with.  I flatter myself with the fond hopes that these Boys may hereafter become usefull to their Country and that they will add to the Number of those who shall Publicly make repeated gratefull acknowledgments for the blessings of Liberty & Peace transmitted to them by means of those Noble, those Glorious Exertions of which your whole Conduct in this War affords one continued & unparalled Example.  Your present operations must have become serious before this time and we begin here to feel, the full Force of that impatient expectation which is Natural on such an occasion.With Sincere attachments of the most ardent wishes for Your Success I ever am D Sir, Your devoted hble servt

               RM


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 19 October 1781
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     War Office Octr 19. 1781

                  By a Channell of Intelligence I have opened I can procure Access to Rivington’s Printing Office where there is a Person ready to furnish any important Papers as Intelligence! But the Person to bring it is the one I have employed & he in N. York will trust no other.  I mention this to your Excellency that if you can think of any material Use to be made of this you will please to take Advantage of it thro’ me as it is confined to my Knowledge only which is the Reason of my personal Address to you.  I some Time ago procured a Copy of the British Signals for their Fleet & gave them to the Minister of France to transmit to Compte de Grasse.  I had again sent in the Person employed on the former occasion & he has brought out some additional Signals & among them those for the Troops now embarked on Board the Fleet on their present Enterprize to the Chesapeak to proceed in which they had fallen down to the Hook yesterday Morning with Sr H. Clinton’s Baggage on Board.  My Informant makes their Number of the Line to be 28.  The Torbay of 64 & another of a superior Rute having arrived last Week.  The latter from the W. Indies but from whence the former came he does not know nor did he care to make much Enquiry as I had instructed him not to be inquisitive lest Suspicion should arise & to confine himself merely to the tr pointed out to him.  I have thought the Knowledge of these Signals to be so important that I have prevailed on Capt. McLean to carry them to Compte de Grasse with a Letter from the Minister to the Compte in which he is requested to transmit them if necessary by Capt. McLean to your Excellency.  The Signals have been reprinted with no Alterations but the Change of the Name of Arbuthnot for Graves.  The written Part was copied from the original given to be reprinted.
                  Should your Excellency have thought proper to interfere in Capt. McLean’s personal Affairs about which I some time ago troubled you he will bear anything you may be pleased to write on the Subject.  I have the Honour to be with the most respectful Esteem Your very obedt Servt

                     Richard Peters

                     P.S.  Your Letter to the Board on the Subject of Blanketts for the Hospitals did not arrive ‘till 20 Days after it was written & came opened.  Everything is doing to procure a Supply but the Article is extremely scarce—Some more  safe & expeditious Mode of Communication should be fallen upon.  The Eastern Shore Road is the shortest but it passes thro’ very dissaffected Parts of the Country.


Title: From George Washington to George Weedon, 19 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Weedon, George

                  Dear Sir

                     Head Quarters 19th October 1781.

                  I am extremely apprehensive that if great care is not taken, the Arms and Accoutrements which the British are to lay down this day at Gloucester will be embezzeled or exchanged.  I shall therefore expect that the strictest Guard may be placed over them from a Corps on which you can depend, the Officer commanding it to be answerable for the number surrendered, untill a Commissary of Stores shall take regular possession of them—In the mean time, let them be put in as secure a place as possible—I am Yr most obt and hble servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Claude Gabriel, marquis de Choisy, 20 October 1781
From: Choisy, Claude Gabriel, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                      20th Octob: 1781.

                  Your excellency’s orders have been put in execution as much as it has been in my power, the Colonel Tarleton has delivered all arms ammunitions &ca in good Stande, and all this has been committed to the care of the general Weedon. I expect new orders of your excellency. I have the honnor to be with the greatest respect your excellency’s Most humble and obedient servant

                     Choisy


Title: From George Washington to Claude Gabriel, marquis de Choisy, 20 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Choisy, Claude Gabriel, marquis de

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 20th Octr 1781

                  I have received the Letter which you did me the Honor to write this Morng & am much indebted to you for the Arrangements which you were so good as to make relative to the surrendering Troops.
                  I have ordered a Continental Officer to go & take charge of the Arms &c. and the persons of the several Departments will receive the Effects that Regard them.  I have the Honor to be &c.

                     G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Charles-René-Dominique Sochet Destouches, 20 October 1781
From: Destouches, Charles-René-Dominique Sochet
To: Washington, George

                     Monsieur
                     Le Neptune le 20e 8bre 1781

                  Pendant le peú de temps que jay éu l’honneur de Commander LèsCadre du roy, jay fait tous mes efforts, pour prouver aux Etats únis, mon zèle, et le desir èxtréme que j’ai eu de leurs ètre ùtile.  les sentiments de respects, et d’admiration que votre excellence a m’inspirer, étoient pour moy un nouvel Éguillon.  la prise D’yorc, et Du Lord Cornwallis mait le Comble à ma satisfaction.  Je prie votre Éxcellence dèn recevoir les tres sincères témoignages, et les assurances du profond respect, avec lequel jay l’honneur d’etre. De Votre Excellence, Le-tres humble et tres obéissant serviteur

                     Destouches


Title: To George Washington from Heinrich Gerlach, 20 October 1781
From: Gerlach, Heinrich
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     York Town Octbr 20th 1781

                  Your Excellency will be pleased to excuse the liberty I take in Stating my Case how I came here with a Ship loadet with Stors and Cloting belonging to the Convention Troops.  Upon Your Excellency’s Passport Litt. A I went to Hampton Road to wait for Orders from His Excellence the Gouvernor Jeffersen Esqr. and hade the Honor to receive his answer No. 1 but waiting 4 weeks for the paper he mentioned.  I was obliged to send an Express to him and received his answer No. 2—But a Dispute having happened betwean him and Maj: Genl Phillips.  Several weeks elapsed again, when at last a New Passport shall have arrived but Genl Phillips beeing deat, the same Passport has been Sent amongst his Papers to New York, wherefor I was obliged to apply for a New Passport again and hade the Honor to received one at the Marquis Lafayette No. 3 by which I was obliged to go to Alexandria.  when I arrived there the convention Troops were under marching oders, and I received orders from our comanding officer to deliver only the Cash, and leave all the Stores and Clotings on board of the Flag Ship order carry it round to New-York, we proceeded but hade only Sailed a few Days when our Ships grew so leaky, as to find it absolutely necessery to run for Portsmouth to be repaired as the attest of the Carpenters will show in No. 4.  After the Time of reparation was over Lord Cornwallis thought proper to detain me till a safe Convoy should be found.  After a Short Time the grand Franch Fleat blocket intirely up the Bay, and the following horry of the Siege put it quite out of his Lordship’s power to See me in Safety.  When His Lordship made his capitulation, he gave me orders to state my Cas to Your Excellency—not douting you would be pleased to grant me the same Liberty which Your Excellency gaf me under Litt: A as the same Goods for all our Convention officers and Men are the Object for which I hade the Honor to receive all these Pasports and only by different mentioned accidences and delays have kept me here.  I therefore Humbly pray Your Excellency will be pleased, to order me a frech Safe Passport to procead to New York and to deliver the Stors and clothing for our Soldiers who must very soon be partly distress by being deprived of them in the approaching Season.  The sooner I can go the greater obligation Your Excellency will confer on all our Convention Troops and on him who has the Honor to bee with the profoundest Respect Your Excellencys most obedient and most humbel servant

                     H. Gerlach
                     Capt. & Depy Qr Mr Genl
                     of Brunswick Troops


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 20 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 20th Octo. 1781

                  The surrender of York from which so much glory and advantage are derived to the Allies, and the honor of which belongs to Yr Excellency—has greatly anticipated our most sanguine expectations.  Certain of this event under your auspices tho unable to determine the time, I  solicited Your Excellys attention in the first conference with which you honored me, to ulterior objects, of decisive importance to the common cause.
                  Altho your Excellencys answer on that occasion was unfavorable to my wishes—the unexpected promptness with which our operations here have been conducted to their final success, havg gained us time, the defect of which was one of Your Excelly’s principal objections—a perspective of the most extensive and happy consequences, engage me to renew my representations—Charles Town the principal Maritime Port of the british, in the southern parts of the Continent, the Grand Deposit and point of Support for the present Theatre of the War—is open to a combined attack, and might be carried with as much certainty—as the place which has just surrendered—This capture wd destroy the last hope which induces the Enemy to continue the war—for they havg experienced the impracticability of recovering the populous northern States, has determined to confine himself to the defensive in that quarter—and prosecute a most vigorous offensive southward—with a View of reconquering States whose sparse population and natural disadvantages render them infinitely less susceptible of defence—altho their productions render them the most valuable in a commercial view—this general naval Superiority previous to Yr Excellys arrival gave him decisive advantages, in the rapid transport of his troops & Supplies—while the immense land marches of our succours too tardive & expensive in every point of view—subjected us to be beat in detail.
                  It will depend upon Yr Excelly therefore to terminate the War, and enable the Allies to dictate the Laws in a Treaty—A Campaign so glorious, and so fertile in consequences, cd be reserved only for the Count de Grasse.
                  It rarely happens that such a combination of means, as are in our hands at present, can be seasonably obtained by the most strenuous of human exertions.
                  A decisively superior fleet the Fortune and talents of whose Commander overawe all the naval force that the most incredible efforts of the enemy have been able to collect—An Army flushed with success and demanding only to be conducted to new attacks—and the very season which is proper for operating against the points in question—If upon entering into the detail of this Expedition Your Excelly should still determine it impracticable—there is an Object, which tho’ subordinate to that above mentioned—is of capital importance to our southern operations and may be effected at infinitely less expence, I mean the Enemys post of Wilmington in North Carolina—Circumstances require that I shd at this period reinforce the southern Army under General Greene.  This reinforcement transported by Sea under Your Excelly’s convoy wd enable us to carry the post in question with very little difficulty—and wd wrest from the british a point of Support, in No. Carolina, which is attended with the most dangerous consequences to us—and liberate another State—This object wd require nothg more than the convoy of Yr Excelly to the point of operation—and the protection of the debarkation.
                  I entreat Your Excellencys attention to the points which I have the honor of laying before You—and to be pleased at the same time to inform me what are your dispositions for a Maritime force to be left on the American Station.


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 20 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                     Sir
                      20 October 1781

                  I lose not an instant to transmit your Excellency— two intercepted letters from Sr Henry Clinton to Lord Cornwallis—they were inclosed to me by the President of Congress, whose letter dated the 14th inst. assures me the british fleet had not then sailed from New York—Count de Barras is so good as to take charge of this,  I shd have had the honor of accompanying him, but some indispensable arrangements detain me till this afternoon, when I shall embark with Count Rochambeau— and hasten to renew the most grateful acknowledgements, in the Name of America, for the glorious event for which she is indebted to you—& the assurances of those sentiments of respect and attachment—with which, I have the honour to be


Title: To George Washington from Jethro Sumner, 20 October 1781
From: Sumner, Jethro
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Halifax, N. Carolina, October 20th 1781

                  I am ordered by Genl Greene into this State, to collect and forward on the remaing troops, raised for the Southern Army, and to give him the earliest intelligence from the Army in Virginia, their Opperations and Success’s &c. with the fate of Lord Cornwallis, or of any manoeuvre made by him South wards, (to head the force of this State, and impede his march as much as possible,) and constantly advise him of the movements for which purpose I have fixed, and station’d expresses for the immediate conveyance of any extraordinary matter; which you will be pleased, to give such further Order for this communication of intelligence between the two Camps, as you may find necessary.  I have the honor to be with respect and Esteem, Yr Very Obedt Servant

                     Jethro Sumner


Title: From George Washington to George Weedon, 20 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Weedon, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters 20th Octob. 1781

                  The Arms Accoutrements &ca which were surrendered yesterday, and which General de Choisy informs me are in your possession, are to be delivered to a Continental Officer charged by General Knox with their reception—Other Articles of public Stores will be received by persons sent from the several departments—and I request that you will be so good as to give them every assistance in your power in the execution of this business.  I am with great regard and esteem Dr Sir Your most obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 21 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters near York Sunday October 21st 1781.Parole York
                     Countersigns Washington Rochambeau

                  For the day tomorrow Major General Baron de Steuben.
                  Lieutenant Colonel AntillMajor FishBrigade Major AorsonGeneral Wayne’s Brigade for duty tomorrow to parade at ten ô clock on their own parade.
                  Major General the Marquis de la Fayette’s division to furnish a corporal and four privates daily as a guard for the Hospital.
                  Major Graham is appointed a Member of the Court martial of which Colonel Cortlandt is President vice Major Rice.
                  The Troops are to be in readiness to move at the shortest notice.  The regiment under the command of Colonel Craig is to join Wayne’s Brigade and Gaskins is to join that of Gist.  As it has been represented that there are a number of Deserters from the American Army among the Prisoners taken at the surrender of York and Gloucester it is directed that an Officer from every Corps or State line with a number of noncommissioned officers who know their deserters may attend when the Prisoners are assembled to march· then to point out and apprehend those of their respective corps.


Title: To George Washington from Charles, marquis de La Rouërie Armand Tuffin, 21 October 1781
From: Armand Tuffin, Charles, marquis de La Rouërie
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                      this 21st octo. 1781

                  I enclose here a copy of my recruiting instructions from the board of war which I recieved yesterday—Capt. Shaffner wraot to me that he shall recieve immediately the first advance of money.  I expect him here every moment.
                  I was by no means anxious to recruit but as no other way could procure me an honourable command I must do it—my hopes of succés on all occasions but more particularly on this lay with the assistance of your excellency will have agreable to give to me.
                  I take the liberty to enclose also two resolve of congress which passed on the occasion of my going to france—the first mantion a draught of six men from every regiment—maybe your exellency would be of opinion to leat me have a smaller proportion like fourty or fivety men out of the new england troops which are now here—the purpose of that number would be to lay immediately the foundation of the legion—to exercise the recruits—which would be the only means to avoid having a corps entaerly new raised—the other resolved passed the 23d of January 1781—say that the quarter master be directed to furnish me with horses—I believe that no better opportunity for the legion nor sheapest one for the united states may be offered to supply me with horses than to take what number is wanted out of those taken with Cornwallis provided your exellency will not dispose of them in an other way—the number wanted is 120—& as congress mean to have them purchassed they will be delivered to me by smals quantity & of course I shall not be able to get the men learned how to rid nor the horses broken to manoeuvre—beside this, men will reither enlist when they see their horses—I beg your exellency would consider all the difficulty that will otherwise attend my getting horses—& that those I have had were got on my own money or out of the continental stables, those last were taken amongs waggons horses & never were fitt for cavallery.
                  I want, as I wrote in my first lettre to your exellency, the whole set of arms cartridge boxes & shoes for the infantry the mquis de la fayete having taken out of the smals magazins of the legion a quantity of sadles bridles pistols swords & other articles belonging to the horses & men & on which I depended  I wishes your exellency would have them reamplaced by a proportion taken out of those of the enemy—& also the articles which I have mentioned for the infantery.
                  I have six officers of the legion now prisoners of war—they are lnt Cnl ternan, capit. le brun, capt. best & three lieutenants—I had made an application to the Count de grass to know if with your permission he could exange them or the three first—the lnt Cnl & the two captains—he answered that he was willing to do it, but that he will deliver the prisoners he has to your exellency & the count de rochambeau & from thence has expectations that my officers will be exanged—the three former are much wanted at this time—the two Captains were taken at Camden—it will be difficult for me to recruit & break to soldiery duties & life the new men of those two Captains as well, fast & regularly as they would do it themselves—Cnl ternan by his industry & talents could help, & forward my succes & no jealousy may arise from their being exanged the prisoners taken by the french—as for the three lieutenants they will not be immediately wanted untill the corps is half compleated.
                  I beg your exellency would appoint me the place of rendesvous for the recruits & the troop somewhere in virginia or near of in maryland—my reason for this are that hard money has not yet got in large quantity in those states & that of course the men will enlist for a lower prise—the other is that the people after the taking of Cornwallis will be more spirited in those states where the succés has taken place and more anxious to intreat in the service—in the northern states I could find no others than foreigners & in deed they can never make up a respectable corps.
                  will your exellency give me leave to enlist the men who are enlisted only for eighteen months.  I have the honor to be with the gretiest respect & on all occasions, Your most hble odet & devoted servante

                     Armand

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                         1 October 1781

                     You are hereby fully authorised & impowered to inlist in any or either of the united states a suficient number of able bodied men to Compleat your Corps to its full establishment within the descriptions & upon the condition hereafter pointed out.
                     you are to enlist none but free men between the age of sixteen & forty free from lameness or any other bodily infirmity & able of body to perform all the duty incident to a soldier—you shall inlist them to serve you the full term of three years or during the war which term of service shall be fully & clearly expressed in the inlistment & witnessed by the magistrat before whom they shall be sworn.
                     you shall inlist no deserter from the british army or navy or prisoners of war on any pretence whatsoever—you shall inlist no soldiers or sailors in the service of our allies or in the service of the united states or in the service of any particular state unless you shall obtain permission from the Commander in chief in particular instances for that purpose—you will cause every recruit inlisted as aforesaid to be immediatly sworn before a civil magistrate who shall certify the same on the inlistement & then to be mustered before a general officers in the service of the united states—at the same time a certificat shall be produced from a hospital or regimental surgeon signifying that he has examin’d the recruit that is to be mustered & find his condition to be within these instructions.
                     you will apply to the Commander in chief to point out your place of general rendezvous where you will take particular care to order all recruits immediatly to repair as soon as mustered and see that good order & discipline is constantly keapt upevery recruit inlisted by you as aforesaid shall be entitled to & receive annually so long ass he shall continue in service, one compleat suit of cloath—eight dollars & one third per month & Assistance as established fore the army of the united statesyou shall be intitled to receive from the paymaster general of the army of the united states for every man you shall enlist within the description aforementioned and be mustered as aforesaid full proof of the same to be produced at the time of payment the Sum of thirty two dollars in wch sum there is to be included the bounty given & all expences of every kind for recruiting & Subsisting such soldier untill he shall be mustered as aforesaid—Given at the war office this first day of october 1781.

                        signed Ezeck Cornell


Title: To George Washington from Robert Hanson Harrison, 21 October 1781
From: Harrison, Robert Hanson
To: Washington, George

                     Annapolis Octr 21. 1781

                  Be pleased to accept my sincere congratulations My Dear Sir, upon the surrender of Lord Cornwallis—They are the Offerings of a Heart very warmly attached to Your Excellency, & most zealously so to the interest & happiness of the States.  This Event, for the wisdom & vigor of the measures leading to it, it is the Voice of all here, is as honourable to You & the Allied Army as it is advancive of, & interesting to the Common Cause.  It cannot but have, with the other Important Occurrences of the Campaign, a most powerful operation in the British Councils; and I ardently hope it will give Your Excellency & Your Country, before it is long, Peace, Liberty & Independence.  It must also, if they are not destitute of gratitude & a sense of favors, attach the affection of the States inviolably to the French Nation.
                  I flatter Myself that circumstances will permit me the pleasure of seeing You in the course of the Fall or Winter.  I hoped for it when you were on your way to Virginia & made, after I heard You were coming, the only effort then in my power to do it.  I have had but a Minute or two allowed me to write, & as the Express is waiting I have only to request that You will do me the favor to present me to the Gentlemen of the family & to be assured that I remain with sentiments of great respect & regard Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt & Afft. Hbl. Servant

                     Rob: H: Harrison

                     The Account of the surrender was received by Govr Lee in a short line of the 18th from Count deGrasse by the Return of Express Boat—he had sent with dispatches.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 21 October 1781
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     My dear General,
                      21st Octr 81

                  I find from the Report of Colo. Barber, who is on Duty in York, that there are many Irregularities—the Enemy are yet issuing Stores, and a great Number of the Men are seen with two new Hats each—From the Appearance of the Baggage of the Officers he thinks all is not right.  There are so many people crouding into Town that it is impossible to preserve it from Confusion.  This cannot be prevented while the guards are kept at the Distance they now are—I think they should be carried up to the Enemy’s Lines, & All from the American Corps, as the French do not understand the Language—No person should be permitted to pass without Leave in Writing from Head Quarters.  Every Person, excepting the Guards, should be ordered out of Town until every Matter is properly arranged, and our stores secured—Some Mode should be adopted by your Excellency with Respect to the Goods in the Hands of private Merchants.  Unless something is immediately done neither the publick nor the Army will have any Benefit from the Purchase of them.  I have the honor to be My dear general Your Excellencys most obedient servant

                     B. Lincoln

                     I will have the honor of waiting on your Excellency as soon as I am relieved.

                     B.L.


Title: General Orders, 22 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters near York Monday October 22d 1781
                     Parole Bourbon
                     Countersigns Franklin Jay.

                  For the Day tomorrow
                  Brigadier General ClintonLieutenant Colonel BarberMajor GibbsBrigade Major FullertonGists Brigade for duty tomorrow to parade at ten ô clock on their own Parade.


Title: From George Washington to John Adams, 22 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Adams, John

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters near York in Virginia 22d Octo. 1781

                  As the Transmission of the inclosed paper through the usual Channel of the Department of foreign Affairs would, on the present Occasion, probably be attended with great Delay—and recent Intelligence of Military Transactions must be important to our Ministers in Europe at the present period of Affairs—I have thought it would be agreeable both to Congress & your Excellency, that the Matter should be communicated immediately by a french Frigate dispatched by Admiral de Grasse.
                  Annexed to the Capitulation is a summary Return of the Prisoners and Cannon taken in the two places of York and Gloucester.
                  I have added, upon the Principles abovementioned, a Copy of Genl Greene’s Report of his last Action in South Carolina.  I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and Most humble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Archibald Cary, 22 October 1781
From: Cary, Archibald
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear Sir
                     Willisses Creek, October 22d 1781

                  That I have not been down to pay my Respects to you, Since your return to Virginia, has been Solely Owing to my being laid up with the Ague and Fever, which I have but very lately got Clear of, and at present Mrs Carys returning from the Warm Springs in Agusta in so Ill a State that I am under great uneasiness least She should not recover puts it Still out of my Power to Injoy that Pleasure.
                  On Sunday Morning I had the high Satisfaction of hearing of the Enemys Surrender, an Event which I made Sure of as Sone as I heard of your Arrival.  My heart is to Full for my hand to tell you what Your Country ow’s you for this Happy Event, which I Flatter my Self will pave the way for an Honourable peace, as well as Saving this Country from the Horrid Raviges of a Cruel Enemy.  to this place I was Compelld to Fly with my Famaly and Effects, And Was happy in removeing Every thing the day before the Enemy reach’d Ampthill, so that Except the Burning my Mills with 450 Barrls of Flouer & the loss of 4 Slaves I sufferd little by them.  my Slaves I hope to recover as I Know they were in York.
                  I Shall as Sone as Mrs Carys health will permit me Come down.  the assembly will Call me the 5th of next Month, but I am Clear that no business Can be done  A most Unhappy Curcumstance, Occasioned by there not being Members Sufft to make an Adjournment, when last, they were to Assemble. this Misfortune I am confident brought on a dissolution; nor Can the Evil be removed as to the Senate but by a Convention deligated by the People who may order the Election of Sanetors for Such districts as were not to hold Elections by the Constitution next April, and this Can only be done by a recommendation of the Former Assembly to the People Siting forth the Cause which has brought the State to this Unhappy dilemma.  this Curcumstance Sir, has made your Success still of more Importance to us, for many reasons.
                  That God may proling your life and by that means Inable you to be Gathering Fresh Lawrels prays Your Friend.
                  I Am requested by Col: Morris Charged by you with dispatches to General Green, to let you Know he has not been Able to proceed on his journey; it was with the Greatest difficulty and at the riske of his Life he reach’d my House which is on his road. I realy thought for Several days he would have died, but Contrary to my Expectation he has Got over his illness which was a Violant Billious Fever, he Intends Seting off on Wednesday Morn, but I think he will run a Riske by going so Sone as he is Yet very Week and Low.  Mrs Cary and my Daughters, beg there most respectfull Complyments to You, And I hope you will believe Me With the Highest Esteem Your Afft. Friend and Hble Servt

                     Archibald Cary


Title: From George Washington to Claude Gabriel, marquis de Choisy, 22 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Choisy, Claude Gabriel, marquis de

                     Sir.
                      22d Octob. 1781.

                  The Quarter Master General is authorized by me to take charge of all the horses captured at Gloucester, as part of the public property which falls under his department—I request that you will be pleased to give positive orders to prevent the exchange or release of any of them—and in case any horses have been inadvertently removed by either means, that you will be so good as to direct how they may be most easily recovered—I ask your pardon for this trouble and am with great esteem and regard Sir

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Charles Cornwallis, 22 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Cornwallis, Charles

                     My Lord
                     Camp before York 22d Octo. 1781

                  The Pay Master General of my Army not being at present with me—I have to desire that your Lordship will cause the Military Chest of your Army to be delivered into the Care of my Q. Master General, who has my Orders to take charge of it. I am My Lord Your &c.


Title: To George Washington from Peter Stephen Duponceau, 22 October 1781
From: Duponceau, Peter Stephen
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Philadelphia, October 22d 1781

                  I think it my duty with every good American to congratulate Your Excellency on the late glorious Success of the allied Armies under your Command.  Be pleased to accept of my most Sincere felicitations.
                  I have much lamented, Sir, that the ill state of my health has prevented me from sharing with the rest of my fellow-soldiers the fatigues and dangers of this Campaign.  Finding it at last impossible for me to continue any longer in a Military Line, & I being Still willing to Serve my adoptive Country, the United States, Baron Steuben was pleased to write to Congress in my favor, & to express to them the desire he had of seeing me employed in a Civil Department.  At the recommendation of his Excellency the President and several Members of that Honorable House I was this day appointed Secretary to the Honble Mr Livingston, Minister of foreign affairs.
                  If the real & good will by which I have never ceased to be actuated, all the time during which I have had the honor to serve under your Commands, have been so successful as to meet with Your Excellency’s approbation I shall have no wish unsatisfied, if you will be pleased to testify it in a recommendatory Letter to the secretary for foreign Affairs, under whom I am now employed.  I hope you will shew me the indulgence I may want on this Occasion, & approve at least of my Endeavour.  My only aim ever was to deserve your approbation, & I shall thankfully receive the Testimony of it as a sufficient reward for my Services.  I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Sir Your Excellency’s Most obedient & very humble servant

                     P.S. Du Ponceau


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 22 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                     sir
                     Head Quarters near York 22d Octo. 1781

                  I take the Chance of sendg by the Frigate which carries the Duke de Lauzun to France the three Dispatches which Colo. Humphry, one of My Aides De Camp, will have the Honor to deliver, with this Letter, to your Excellency—And beg the Favor that you will cause them to be convey’ed to the Care of the Duke—Should the Frigate be sailed before the Dispaches arrive to your Hand—I beg that your Excellency will have the Goodness to see them forwarded by the next Opportunity. I have the Honor to be Sir

                     G.W.


Title: From David Cobb to Timothy Pickering, 22 October 1781
From: Cobb, David
To: Pickering, Timothy

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters Octr 22d 1781

                  The Commander in Chief requests you to provide Hospitals for the British Sick & wounded agreeable to the Articles of Capitulation; the Houses of York & Gloucester must be taken up for that purpose, those of them at least, that can be best spared.  Doctr Craik or some of the Surgeons to consult with you on the subject.  I am Your Most Humble Servant

                     David Cobb Lt Coll
                     Aid de Camp


Title: From John Laurens to Timothy Pickering, 22 October 1781
From: Laurens, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

                     Hd Qrs 22d Octob. 1781

                  The General desires that you would forthwith order the flat bottomed boats in your possession to be transported to the most convenient launching place near York—to be delivered to the order of Monsieur de Martelli Commandg the Experiment.

                     John Laurens
                     Aide


Title: General Orders, 23 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters near York Tuesday October 23d 1781.Parole America
                     Countersigns Paris Madrid

                  For the Day tomorrow
                  Brigadier General WayneLieutenant Colonel OlneyMajor WyllysBrigade Major WilliamsColonel Dayton’s Brigade for duty tomorrow to parade at ten ôClock in the morning on their own Parade.
                  Two Pioneers from each regiment and Corps to be sent immediately to Colonel Pickerings Quarters to be continued on duty from day to day untill dismissed by the Quarter Master General.
                  After Orders
                  The Biscuit taken from the Enemy is not to be issued without a General Order.
                  At the General Court martial of the Line whereof Colonel Cortlandt is President, Lieutenant Arthur of the 3d Maryland regiment was tried.
                  1st For disobedience of Orders of the 13th Inst.
                  2dly Conduct prejudicial to the Service and unbecoming an Officer in returning himself unfit for Duty for sometime past when during that period he made frequent and distant excursions on parties of pleasure &ca where his Conduct and Behavior indicated no real indisposition.
                  The Court on Consideration are of opinion that Lieutenant Arthur is Guilty of the first Charge against him in breach of Article 5th Section 18th of the Rules and Articles of War.
                  They acquit him of the second Charge against him.
                  The Court in consequence of Lieutenant Arthur’s being Guilty of the first charge sentence him to be Reprimanded in Brigade Orders.
                  The Commander in Chief Approves the opinion of the Court, Two Captains four subalterns six serjeants and two hundred rank and file from the Marquis de la Fayette’s division to parade tomorrow morning at eight ô clock on their division parade, They are to assist in Collecting and removing the Military stores at York and Gloucester—Major Doughty will attend at the above time and place to conduct them.


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 23 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                      23d October 1781.

                  Lord Cornwallis claims with great earnestness the accomplishment of the article of the Capitulation which engages to provide Transports for conveying the General and Staff Officers to New York.
                  Mr de Grandchain was of opinion that Yr Excelly would probably destine to this service two of the Vessels surrendered to the Marine—but that there would be a difficulty in manning them.
                  In these circumstances I take the liberty of proposing to Yr Excellency that the Crews might be furnished from the british marine prisoners— an equal number of french sailors to be returned for them— or in case there are no french sailors  in the possession of the enemy— that you will be pleased to suffer the exchange to be made for an equal number of American seamen—  This unhappy Class of men are now languishing under every species of inhumanity in the prison Ships of the british, who pursue this conduct with a view of forcing the men to enter their service— in which purpose by a perseverance in cruelty they too frequently succeed— and make an acquisition of seamen which otherwise wd not happen—  The Vessels in this case wd be returned at the port and to the person that Your Excelly shall direct.
                  This arrangement, if it does not interfere with any made by Yr Excelly— wd prevent the necessity of sendg Ld Cornwallis and the other officers by land, which wd be attended with political inconveniences— and relieve some of the suffering individuals above mentioned—for which an equal number of Seamen— or other prisoners wd be returned— upon the first occasion.
                  I am sorry to trouble Yr Excelly with this detail—but am happy in the opportunity of renewing the sincerest assurances of respectful attachment with which I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s most obedient Servant.


Title: To George Washington from François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 23 October 1781
From: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de
To: Washington, George

                     Monsieurà bord de la ville de Paris le 23. 8bre 1781.

                  Je viens de recevoir les six paquets que Votre Excellence m’a fait l’honneur de m’addresser pour être envoyés par la frégatte la Surveillante.  je suis desesperé que cette frégatte soit deja partie puisque cela m’émpeche de remplir vos vuës a ce sujet, mais je puis assurer Votre Excellence que ses depêches seront particulierement recommandées au Capitaine de la seconde frégatte que je compte expédier sous peu de jours.
                  Je profite de cette occasion pour vous remercier d’avoir bien voulû m’envoyer l’Etât des prisonniers et de l’artillerie trouvés dans les villes d’York et de Gloucester et pour vous renouveller les assurances de tous les sentiments de consideration, d’attachement et de respect avec lesquels j’ai l’honneur d’être De Votre Excellence Le três humble et três obeissant serviteur

                     Le Comte de Grasse

               j’ai ordonné que l’on conduisit á Votre Excellence tous les prisonniers douteux qui sont a bord des vaisseaux de l’armée. S’ils sont americains, vous leur donnerés la liberté, s’ils ne sont pas, ils toucheront dans la classe des matelots prisonniers. Il y en a quelques uns qui sont mal notés, dont vous pourés, mieux que moy, eclaircir la conduitte.


Title: From Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette to Alexandre-François-Auguste de Grasse-Rouville, comte de, marquis de Tilly Grasse, 23 October 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Grasse, Alexandre-François-Auguste de Grasse-Rouville, comte de, marquis de Tilly

                         23 October 1781

                     Monsieur le Comte de Grasse seroit heureux de pouvoir faire l’expedition de Charlestown dont il sent tous les Avantages; mais les ordres de La Cour, les projets ulterieurs, et les engagements avec les espagnols Rendent impossible de passer ici le tems necessaire à cette operation; son desir de servir les etats unis est tel qu’il desire entrer dans des arrangements pour une Cooperation pendant la Campagne prochaine autant que les projets de la Cour ne s’y opposeront pas.
                     L’expedition de Wilmington etant moins longue, Monsieur le Comte de Grasse se chargeroit d’y conduire le detachement de deux mille Americains; quant à la maniere d’operer elle se decidera d’apres les Renseignements particuliers que nous allons prendre.
                     il faudroit avoir sur le champs des pilotes et des personnes connaissant bien le païs avec qui Monsieur le Comte de Grasse desire Causer le plutot possible pour donner sa parole definitivement.  Les troupes americaines seront fournies de provisions; l’armée Navale ne pouvant pas donner les siennes.
                     Monsieur le Comte de Grasse nous promet de nous tenir des Bâtiments de la Riviere d’york—le loyalist, la queen Charlotte, le Cormoran ont été rendus a l’etat de Virginie- mais Monsieur le Comte de Grasse ne croit pas pouvoir embarquer les troupes Americaines à Bord de la Vaillante.  alors comment nous y prendrons nous pour avoir des Matelots qui puissent les Manoeuver.  Mr le cte de Grasse a 15 matelots Americains; il y a quelques petits Bâtiments armés; si apres avoir vu les personnes qui Connoissent la Côte Monsieur le Comte de Grasse croit pouvoir nous embarquer à Bord des Vaisseaux de l’armée et nous debarquer sans danger alors il vous deviendra inutile de prendre des Bâtiments de transport; si les fregattes peuvent entrer quelquepart a portée, alors on mettra nos troupes dans les fregattes.
                     Le jour de partance le premier Novembre et s’il est possible plûtot.

                  Translation

                     The Count de Grasse would be happy to be able to make the expedition of Charles Town, all the advantages of which he feels; but the orders of his court, ulterior projects, and his engagements with the Spaniards render it impossible to remain here the necessary time for this operation.  His desire to serve the United States is such that he desires to enter into engagements for a cooperation during the next Campaign, as far as the plans of the Court will permit.
                     The expedition of Wilmington requiring less time, the Count de Grasse would undertake to conduct to that place, the detachment of two thousand Americans.  as to the manner of operating, it must be determined according to the particular information that we are going to collect.
                     It wd be necessary immediately to have pilots and persons well acquainted with the Country— with whom the Count de Grasse would desire to converse as soon as possible, in order to give his word definitively.
                     The American Troops must be furnished with their own provisions—the Naval Army having none to spare.
                     The Count de Grasse gives us leave to make use of the Vessels in York River; The Loyalist, the Queen Charlotte, the Cormorant have been sold to the State of Virginia—but the Count de Grasse does not think he will be able to embark the American troops on board of his Ships of the line; How then shall we provide Sailors to man the other Vessel?  The Count has 15 American sailors—There are some small armed vessels.
                     if after having seen the persons acquainted with the Coast, the Comte de Grasse thinks he will be able to take the troops on board of his Line of battle Ships, and debark them without danger, then it will be useless to take the transports—If frigates can run in to a convenient place then the troops will be embarked on board of frigates.
                     The day of departure the first of November, and if possible sooner.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Sim Lee, 23 October 1781
From: Lee, Thomas Sim
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     In Council Annapolis 23d October 1781.

                  We received by a Letter from the Count De Grasse and verbally by Colo. Tilghman the important and most agreeable Intelligence of Lord Cornwallis’s Surrender.
                  Permit us to offer our most sincere and affectionate Congratulations to your Excellency on this great and memorable Event.
                  At present we are not informed of all the Particulars of the Capitulation; but understand the Refugees are to be subject to the Civil Powers of the States from whence they fled.  Many within that description have absconded from this State and three of the names of Hayman, Haywood and French, whose Conduct since joining the Enemy have rendered them peculiarly obnoxious.  We think it incumbent on Us to desire that all such Persons may be sent to this State and flatter ourselves that the Negroes and the kind of property which were Captured or plundered from the Citizens of this State, may be recovered.
                  Our State Boat the Dolphin then Commanded by Captain William Middleton with a French Officer on board, going Express from the Marquis de la Fayette to the French Fleet last Spring, was by order of the French Officer ran by mistake along side the British Ship Royal Oak, and Captured; the Captain and his Crew remain in Captivity.
                  Unwilling as We are to trouble Your Excellency on any Occasion, yet we cannot consistant with our Duty forbear to solicit the release of this Boat, Captain Middleton and his Crew, and we hope the Count De Grasse will favor the State with the return of the Boat, and take measures for Exchanging her Crew for some of the British Seamen lately Captured.  We have the Honor to be with the most respectful Attachment Your Excellency’s Mo. Obedt Hble Servts

                     Tho: S: Lee


Title: To George Washington from Peter Muhlenberg, 23 October 1781
From: Muhlenberg, Peter
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Williamsburg Octobr 23d 1781

                  A few days ago, I receivd permission from Major General The Marquis de la Fayette to retire to this place for the recovery of my health; a Constant & violent fever I have had for Ten days past, has not only reduced me very much, but I am afraid if it continues much longer will put it out of my power to remove for some time, I would therefore request Your Excellencys permission to go over the Mountains, as I have at present an Opportunity to make use of a Carriage going that way—Your Excellency will please to remember that I had obtaind permission to visit my Family in the Spring of 79. but was prevented by General Woodfords remaining longer in Virga then was expected—in Novr 79. I obtained Your Excellencys permission again but was Stopd in Philada By the Board of War, when the Virga Line was ordered to Charlestown—Since that I obtained permission From Baron Steuben to go home for a time, but had been there only three days, when I was recalld by Express at the time when Arnold invaded the State.  I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt & hble Servt

                     P. Muhlenberg


Title: From John Laurens to Timothy Pickering, 23 October 1781
From: Laurens, John
To: Pickering, Timothy

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 23d Octob: 1781.

                  The General requests that you would commission a quarter master to join the escort of General Lawson without loss of time and take his orders—on the road to Winchester.

                     John Laurens


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 23 October 1781
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Camp Octr 23. 1781.

                  Agreeably to your Excellency’s orders on the 19th inst. to me, to take possession of the enemy’s public stores, pertaining to my department, I went to York myself with my storekeeper; and at the same time desired Colo. Dearborn to go to Glocester with an Assistant of the storekeeper for the purpose of receiving the stores.
                  At Glocester the dragoon horses with their accoutrements, and the waggon horses & waggons were delivered up that day, and the whole committed by Colo. Dearborn to militia guards.  The same evening the dragoon horses were driven out of Glocester & delivered to the care of the Duke de Lauzun’s legion; & by the inclosed certificate, & oath of Major Baytop, it appears that no exchanges were made between the receipt of those horses from the British & the delivery of them to the duke’s legion.
                  On the 20th I sent over the superintendant of the horse yard with a party of men, & a written order, to take charge of the cavalry horses.  But Coll Sheldon told my assistant (Mr Mix) that they should retain the horses till there was an order from your Excellency to deliver them up.  So the superintendant remained at Glocester.
                  During the 20th & 21st I had persons waiting at Glocester to receive every species of property pertaining to my department, with a party of men for fatigue & guards.  As soon as the prisoners left their tents on the 21st Mr Mix, applied to the officer of the French guard, & told him his orders & business but he refused to let him take a tent, unless he could produce an order from your Excellency, Count Rochambeau, or Genl Choisi.  The time would not admit of an application to either.  Night came on; & the tents were chiefly stolen.  In two hours the persons I had assigned for that service would have had them in store.  Early that morning I sent Mr Mix with a note to Head Quarters, mentioning the embarrassments given me by the French and militia guards; but your Excellency was gone to the Fleet.  Tho’ Mr Trumbull said you had previously written to Genl Choisi on the subject.
                  Colo. Dearborn informs me that a large proportion of the public stores thus lost (tents particularly) were taken away by the soldiers and women in the British hospitals; so that of 110 new tents returned in the 80th regiment, only four or five were left.  This information he recd from the quarter master to that regiment.  Some French soldiers were yesterday found there loading two boats with tents.  Colo. Dearborn coming probably prevented their completing their design: but in defiance of him they carried off what they had got.
                  The French have placed safeguards over the houses at Glocester where the British officers are quartered: so that no American officer on duty there can obtain any shelter, unless in the vilest hovels: I conceive it to be absolutely necessary that these, and the French guards over the stores, be removed, as well as the guards of militia; their places to be supplied, as far as shall be found necessary, by Continental troops.
                  I request to be favoured with your Excellency’s directions respecting the public stores & tents carried off by the people in the British Hospital.
                  Colo. Dearborn will present this & explain more circumstantially the proceedings at Glouster.  I have the honour to be with the greatest respect, Yr Excellencys most obedt servt

                     Tim. Pickering
                     Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to David Ross, Jr., 23 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Ross, David, Jr.

                     sir,
                     Near York 23d Octo. 1781

                  If you have not already engaged in the Purchase of the Salted Provisions which I mentioned to you the other Day—or if you have not proceeded so far therein as not to be able to recall your Doings—It will be very agreable to me that you desist entirely from the Attempt—I find I shall not have occasion for that Quantity I expected when I last saw you.


Title: From George Washington to Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von] Steuben, 23 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von]

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters before York Octr 23d 1781

                  I have been honored with your Letter of this date see 22 Oct. inclosing one from Colo. Febiger to you—The representation you have given me of the state of the officers makes me Feel very sensibly for them, and I could wish the means in my power, for their relief, were equal to my inclinations, but as I am divested of them, I can do no more than recommend them, with others, to Congress & their own State in particular.  All the Troops of the Virginia Line when time of service expires before the 1st of Jany next, are to be selected & properly officered; they will remain in the State for the purpose of Guards & Escorts as occasion may require; the remaining effectives are to be marched to Cumberland Old Court House, there to be cloathed, together with those now at that place, & formed into one or more Battallions according to their numbers; from thence they will march Southward, agreeable to the Orders they may hereafter receive; And as there is a large portion of their Troops returned sick, it will be necessary to appoint a sufficient number of Officers to receive & march them to the Southward as they recover; taking care that those who have only two or three months to serve are not to be marched, but are to join that part of the Troops which are destined to remain in the State for the purpose of Guards &c.


Title: To George Washington from St. George Tucker, 23 October 1781
From: Tucker, St. George
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Camp near York Octr 23d 1781

                  I have the Honour of addressing your Excellency on a subject which appears to me as important to the United States of America, as it is interesting to myself, as an Individual attach’d to the spot which gave me Birth, and anxious for the Happiness of those Friends who still reside there.
                  It is well known that at the commencement of the present war, the Congress were so well persuaded of the Attachment of the Inhabitants of Bermuda to America and the Cause she had engaged in, that their Vessels were exempted from Capture, and permitted to trade freely in every port in America.
                  The same Exemption and privileges had continued to this Hour, but for the practises of certain Refugees from America, to whom a small part of the Island under the immediate Eye and controul of the British Government afforded an Assylum, in spite of the prejudices and Animosity of the native Inhabitants; by these they have been held in such Detestation as to give rise to a general Association not to deal with them on any Account whatsoever.  Yet the practises of these Men induced America to regard those as her Enemies whose hearts, still unchanged, glow with the warmest Sentiments of Friendship to her; which under every unfavourable circumstance they have dared to avow, and uniformly confirmed by their conduct.  To America they have ever turn’d their Eyes, and cherished the hope that she would one Day extricate them from that Tyranny which she disdained to submit to, and which has been augmented in Bermuda, in proportion as a less extensive scope is afforded for the Exertion of it in other places.
                  An opportunity favourable to that Hope, and not less so to the Interests of the united states seems to offer at the present conjuncture.  The Reduction of that Island would again open those resources for supplies of Salt to the continent, the Obstruction of which has been severely felt by the Inhabitants of this state in particular, who, being not well furnished with Vessels of their own have been obliged to depend on the fortuitous Arrival of Bermudians, driven hither by necessity or allowed by the advantages of Commerce to brave even the Horrors of a prison ship, which many of them have fatally experienced—A Capitulation nearly similar to that of Grenada would answer this End.  The natives would joyfully embrace such a neutrality as that Capitulation sanctioned to the Inhabitants of that Island.  The Result would be that every port in America would be filled with their Vessels laden with that useful commodity, and the Inhabitants no longer subject to the extortions of Harpies who prey on the vitals of this Countrymen in Distress.I should presume that a fifty Gun ship and three or four Frigates with a few Land Forces would accomplish this End in less than three Days, there being no Garrison in the place except three or four hundred Invalids, and the Inhabitants too well disposed to shake off the Tyranny of Britain to make any Opposition to the Allies of America.
                  If what I have said has any weight with your Excellency I would beg leave to suggest some few matters which might be necessary for forming the plan—There is at this time in Williamsburg a Gentleman of Character who is a native, and able and experienced navigator, perfectly acquainted with the Coast, who would embrace the Opportunity of going thither as a pilot, with Alacrity.
                  Enclosed is a paper communicated to me about three months ago by a Gentleman in the American service then just returned from Captivity in Charlestown.  I beg leave to submit it to your perusal; and if it should appear to you to contain anything worthy your attention, I am perswaded the writer will think his Time happily employed.  I have the honor to be with the most exalted Esteem and Respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedt & most hble servt

                     S.G. Tucker


Title: General Orders, 24 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters near York Wednesday October 24th 1781
                     Parole Holland
                     Countersigns Adams Dana

                  For the day tomorrow
                  Brigadier General GistLieutenant Colonel CochranMajor CummingsBrigade Major HobbyBrigadier General Clinton’s brigade for duty tomorrow.Untill further Orders it is expected that one of the Field officers of the day will stay constantly in York during his Tour to whom the heads of the Staff departments are to apply for assistance in Collecting and securing the Stores in their several departments.
                  The Officer who remains in York is himself to Visit the several Guards and Fatigue Parties on duty there as often as convenient and order the Inspector of the day who will attend him to do it at other times.
                  After Orders
                  Two hundred men from General Muhlenberg’s Brigade will parade tomorrow morning at seven ô clock on the right of the first Parrallel to Level the works—They will be commanded by two Field Officers and a proportion of Captains and Subalterns.
                  Application must be made to the Quarter Master General this evening for tools.


Title: From George Washington to Ephraim Blaine, 24 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Blaine, Ephraim

                     Sir
                      24 October 1781

                  You will imediately consult with His Excellency Governor Nelson—upon the best mode to be adopted for the Supply of Provision to the British & German Troops, Prisoners, now marching to the Places of their Destination—And you will pursue such mode for the above Purpuse as shall be agreed upon between the Governor & yourself—taking the best Care you can, that the mode adopted shall be effectual and that no Complaints of Want shall be given.
                  On the Arrival of the Prisoners to the places of their Destination, they will as soon as possibly it can be effected, be supplied under the Direction of the Financier Genl of the United States—In the Mean Time, and untill that Event takes place, if any Defect should be experienced in the Supplies to be furnished by the States—you will take Care to purchase for them, in your own Name, or that of your Deputy Attendg them, such Quantities of Provisions as may be actually wanting for their full Supply.  Given at Head Quarters this 24th Octr 1781.