Title: To George Washington from Ranald Stephen McDougall, 25 April 1783
From: McDougall, Ranald Stephen,McDougall, Alexander,Van Schaick, Goose
To: Washington, George

                        Sir

                                Hutts N. York Line 25 April 1783

                        The Sentiments of the Officers of the New York Line have been taken Persuant to the General orders of the 16
                            Instant. In Obediance thereto I Report that the Officers of the Brigade and those of Colonels Lambs or Second Regiment of
                            Artillery are Unanimous for the Commutation of five Years full pay in Lieu of half pay: Heretofore Ordered by Congress. I
                            have the honor to be your Excellencys Most Obed. Humbe Servant

                            G. V. Schaick

                            Philadelphia 7th May 1783 The underwritten being Subjects of the State of Newyork, and of that line, do each for himself accept
                                of the Commutation of Five years whole pay, offered by Congress in their act of the 22d of March last, in Lieu of the
                                half pay promised by Congress for life.

                            Alexr McDougall M. General
                            Ranald Stephen McDougall Major A.D. Camp


Title: From George Washington to Marinus Willett, 25 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Willett, Marinus

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 25th April 1783

                        Your Letter of the 18th was received Yesterday—informg of your sending on the Dispatches to Gen. McLean—and
                            the Sum of Expence.
                        Agreeable to your Desires I have engaged the twenty seven pounds N. York Currency to be deposited in the Hands
                            of Mr Glen at Schenectady—Colo. Duer has promised me to have this done by the Time you mention.
                        The Information forwarded by you to the port of Oswego—is perfectly approved by me—& hope it will
                            have a salutary Effect. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von] Steuben, 26 April 1783
From: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von]
To: Washington, George

                            Sir!
                             26 April 1783

                        As Your Excellency has ordered discharges for those soldiers whose time is near expiring to be printed
                            & the form is probably already furnished, I have not attempted giving any sentiments on the matter; they will
                            doubtless by signed by the Commander in Chief which will add a dignity to them, pleasing to soldiers who have served with
                            fidelity; if they could be authorised by those discharges to apprehend & deliver to justice those who have left
                            the service without being regularly dismissed it would I think have a good effect.
                        The Certificates to retiring Officers ought if possible, to be given on parchment the value of their services will be
                            certainly expressed in the most honorable manner & the Certificate signed by the General, & sealed with
                            his arms.
                        For Conducting the dismission of the troops with the greatest dignity & decorum I beg leave to
                            propose that a Brigadier General, & Colonel, Lt Colonel & Major from each line should
                            be assembled at the Temple, the Inspector General could preside; their business would be to sign the Certificates for the
                            Officers, examine the preillegibletions of each soldier & on finding
                            them good, his name will be entered with the date &c., In a Book will be entered the name of each Officer &
                            Soldier so discharged, which will be kept in the Archives of Congress in memory of those brave Citizens who have fought
                            for the Independence of this Country.
                        The troops to be discharged by lines begining by New Hampshire. The field & Staff of each Regt
                            & the Officers of each Company to attend the board when the men of their Regiment or Company are examined, that
                                every information necessary may be given.
                        The troops to be marched by Battalion to the Temple formed as per Inspection, when those
                            intitled are discharged, the Inspector General or Inspecter will divid them into Companies apportioning the Officers who
                            are to Command them, this formation to exist on the March & untill they arrive where they will be finally
                            disolved.
                        Those of the Battalion or Regt or Line who remain will take a tempore formation untill the
                            new Battls are Composed.
                        The Senior Officer at the Line will conduct those of who are discharged to the
                            rendezvous of the State assigned for thier final dismission.
                        If the Soldiers could be made sensible that this mode of dismissing them was adopted so
                            that they might return to their states with that dignity & Honor to which they are intitled by their merit, that
                            the least disorder, excess or want of discipline would be more disgracefull on this than any other occasion, & that
                            it would efface the merit of their past services; it would in all probability have the happiest consequences. With the
                            greatest respect I have the honor to be Your Excellencies Obedient Servant

                            Steuben
                            Maj: Genl


Title: To George Washington from Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von] Steuben, 26 April 1783
From: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von]
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             April 26th 1783

                        I have the honor to enclose Your Excellency a representation of the Case of Samuel Ransom by Gen. Hazen;
                            & beg leave to remark that it appears that this Ransom was a soldier in Genl Hazens Reg, that he procured a
                            furlough from Your Excellency & repair’d to Wyoming, that Genl Hazen renewed this furlough, but for how long is not
                            said, that the Above soldier formed a Company (whether of Militia or what troops is not mentioned, Commanded by a Capt.
                                Spaulden that while in this Company absent from his Regt, & doing duty at Wyoming perhaps
                            without permission, he was twice wounded.
                        I beg Your Excellency will please to inform me whether from the inclosed representation You think him
                            intitled to the Pension as ordered by Congress to wounded soldiers. with the greatest respect I have the honor to be Sir
                            Your Excellencies Most Obedient Servant

                            Steuben
                            Maj: Genl


Title: General Orders, 27 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Sunday April 27th 1783
                            Parole Cumberland
                            C. Signs Bedford Westmoreland

                        For the day tomorrow Brigr Genl Stark
                         B. Qr Mr from the 3d Massa. Brigade
                        The Hampshire regt gives the Guards and the 1st Massachusetts regt the fatigues tomorrow.
                        The Maryland Detachment & Hampshire battalion will march on Tuesday next to the relief of the 6th
                            Massachusetts regt on the Lines.
                        The Board appointed to take into consideration the claims of the Candidates for the Badge of merit. Report
                        That Serjeant Churchill of the 2d regt of Light Dragoons and Serjeant Brown of the late 5th Connecticut regt
                            are in their opinion severally entitled to the badges of Military merit and do therefore recommend them to His Excellency
                            the Commander in chief, as suitable characters for that honorary distinction.
                        The Commander in chief is pleased to order the before named Serjt Elijah Churchill of the 2d regt of Light
                            Dragoons and Serjt Brown of the late 5th Connecticut regiment to be each of them invested with the badge of merit—They
                            will call at Head Quarters on the third of May, when the necessary Certificates & Badges will be ready for
                        them.


Title: General Orders, 28 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Monday April 28th 1783
                            Parole
                            C. signs

                        For the day tomorrow Brigr Genl Greaton
                        B. Qr M. 2d Massa. Brigade
                        The 7th Massachusetts regt gives the Guards and the 4th the fatigues tomorrow.
                        Major Sumner is appointed a member of the board whereof General Greaton is president—vice Major Fish on Court
                            martial.
                        At the Genl courtmartial of which Col. H. Jackson is president—Lieutenant Abraham Kinney of Sheldons Light
                            Dragoons was tried.
                        1st For going below our Lines on the 4th of February last without proper authority or liberty for so doing.
                        2dly For aiding assisting, conniving at and being concerned in an illicit intercourse of Traffic with the
                            Enemy on the said 4th of February in contempt and disobedience of the orders of His Excellency the Commander in cheif of
                            December 12th 1779.
                        3dly For opposing and resisting Lieutt Stewart in the exercise of his duty, exerting himself to detect and
                            prevent such illicit intercourse agreably to the above mentioned orders on the same 4th of February.
                        4thly For leaving the Cantonment of Genl Hazens regt at Pompton in contempt and disobedience of the orders of
                            Brigadier Genl Hazen of the 5th of February last.
                        The Court on consideration are of opinion that the 1st and 3d charges against Lt Kinney are supported, yet
                            they do not find his opposition to Lt Stewart was attended with an intention of encourageing the illicit Traffick. They
                            are also of opinion that the 2d & 4th Charges are not supported.
                        The Court adjudges the conduct of Lt Kinney as found supported on the 1st & 3d charges to be in
                            breach of article 5th section 18th of the Rules and Articles of war and sentence him to ask pardon of Lieutt Stewart and
                            to be repremanded in Genl orders. They acquit him of the 2d & 4th charges.
                        The Commander in cheif approves the opinion of the court.
                        Tho, it does not appear from the Trial that Mr Kinney was concerned in any illicit Traffic, yet his going
                            below the Lines and being there in company with persons of suspicious characters was highly improper—His conduct in
                            opposing Lt Stewart in the execution of his duty, and the language it appears he made use of on that occasion were
                            derogatory to the character an officer should support.
                        When Lieutenant Kinney has complied with the sentence he is to be released, from his arrest.


Title: To George Washington from Jacob Morris, 28 April 1783
From: Morris, Jacob
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia 28th April 1783

                        Your Excellency’s favor of the 22 instant was this day handed me from the Post office.
                        I had the honor to write the sister of my deceased friend the late Major Genl Lee, as early as December last,
                            and inclosed therein Copy of her Brothers last will & testament.
                        As I have certain accts of that letter as well as a duplicate thereof having reached Europe, I make no doubt
                            but that she recd it.
                        Mr White one of the Generals Executors in a letter of the 8th instant at Berkley informs me, that he had not
                            then been able to get the will proved, but he had written to the Executors in the most urgent manner to attend at the next
                            Court for that purpose—Whenever that is done, I will obtain an authenticated Copy of the Gens. Will, & forward it
                            to your Exellency—I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Your Excellencys most ob. hum. sert

                            Jacob Morris


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Blachley Webb, 28 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Webb, Samuel Blachley

                             Monday—28th April 1783

                        General Washington Presents his Compliments to Ten Officers of Colo. Webb’s Regt and requests the favor of
                            their Company at Dinner tomorrow at 3o’clock.


Title: To George Washington from William Stephens Smith, 28 April 1783
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Dobbs’s Ferry 28th April 1783

                        Agreable to your Excellency’s order’s of the 21st inst. I have permitted the Inhabitants to pass &
                            repass this post, upon their reporting themselves to me—In consequence of which, vast Numbers have crowded to the City.
                        The enclosed No. 1 is a Copy of a Letter received last evening from Brigadier General Musgrave—No. 2 is my
                            Answer dispatch’d this morning—If your Excellency thinks proper that none but the Persons discribed in General Musgraves
                            Letter are to be permitted to pass this Post, it shall be Strictly attended to, and the Inhabitants informed of it that
                            they may govern themselves accordingly—I am Your Excellency’s Most Obliged Humble Servant

                            W. S. Smith Lt Colo.

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Morriss House April 27 1783.

                            I am desired by His Excellency Sir Guy Carleton to inform You, in order to prevent the Inconveniencies
                                that may arise from the great number of Persons resorting to the Town of New York, (which is already so full as to
                                render it difficult to prevent Irregularities) that although he is very desirous to give every facility &
                                licence to Trade; and to admit of a free Communication for the Market people, and others bringing supplies by way of
                                the North River, yet he cannot think it advisable to permit Vessels full of Men coming down, without some
                                Restrictions.
                            I am therefore desired to inform You that all Vessels coming down the River will be brought too and
                                examined; Such persons as belong to the Vessel and are necessary to navigate her, as well as those who have passes
                                from hence, or sign’d by General Washington, and such market people as bring Supplies will be permitted to proceed.
                            But it is to be observed, that Vessels will not be suffered to pass this post after Dark. I am Sir Your
                                most obedient & most humble Servant

                                Thos Musgrave
                                Brigr General

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Dobbs’s Ferry 28 April 1783

                            I have received yours of yesterday’s date and can readily form an idea of the inconvenencies which may
                                arise from the Circumstances mention’d. I shall pay every attention to check the passing of persons
                                not included under your description (and who are only led by an idle curiosity) that my orders will admit of.
                            It cannot be expected that General Washington will attend to and sign Passes for every person who wishes
                                to visit the City of New York—His Excellency has thought proper to rest that matter with me and you may assure Sir Guy
                                Carleton that passes will not be granted excepting to those whose business may render their personal attendance
                                necessary and upon whose prudence and propriety of Conduct I can safely rely. I am Sir Your most obedient and most
                                humble Servant

                                W.S. Smith Lt Colo. &ca


Title: To George Washington from Goose Van Schaick, 28 April 1783
From: Van Schaick, Goose
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Camp 28th April 1783

                        In January 1780 in Conformity to your Excellencys Order, I Imployed the Onida Indians to make and deliver at
                            Fort Schuyler two hundred & fifty pair of Snow Shoes, for the payment whereof I Referred them with my order to the
                            Quarter Master, who for the want of Cash has Left the Affair Unsettled, in Consequence of Which the Indians have made
                            frequent Applications to me and Still do presist in my paying for the Same. as I have Imployed them and they not having
                            any other Idea but of Obtaining Recompence through me, it is probable that I may be much perplexed by
                            them. and as I Shall hereafter have Occasion to Travel through their Contery. I am Apprehensive that they will prove
                            Troublesome to me Unless they are Sattisfied for their woork.
                        I Could therefore wish that your Excellency would be pleased to Order Some mode by Which they may be
                            Recompenced for their demands. I am Your Excellency most Obedient Humbe servt

                            G.V. Schaick


Title: From George Washington to John Tayloe Wormeley, 28 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Wormeley, John Tayloe

                            sir.
                            Head Quarters 28th April 1783

                        In reply to your Letter of the 17th Instant I can only say—That having forwarded your Letter to Governor
                            Harrison, by a good Conveyance, & having good reason to suppose it has not failed; it will be very improper for
                            me, in my situation, to interest myself any further—nor can I presume to give you any further Directions in your Care
                            until you have an Answer to your Application to the State of Virginia.I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from John Cochran, 29 April 1783
From: Cochran, John
To: Washington, George

                            April 29th 1783

                        In Conformity to a Genl Order of the 16th Inst. I do hereby certify that the Gentlemen of the Medl Department
                            acting under the immediate Command of his Excellency the Commander in Chief, have agreed to accept of the Commutation of
                            the five years full Pay, in Lieu of the half Pay granted by a Resolution of Congress of the 17th of Jany 1781.

                            John Cochran
                            Direct. Mily Hospitals


Title: To George Washington from James Madison, 29 April 1783
From: Madison, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philada Apl 29. 1783

                        I have been honored with your Excellency’s favor of the 22d inst: bearing testimony to the merits &
                            talents of Mr McHenry. The character which I had preconceived of this gentleman was precisely that which your
                            representation has confirmed. As Congress have not yet fixed the peace establishment for their foreign affairs and will
                            not probably fill up vacancies unless there be some critical urgency until such an Establishment be made, it is uncertain
                            when an opportunity will present itself, of taking into consideration the wishes & merits of Mr McHenry. Should my
                            stay here be protracted till that happens, which I do not at present expect, I shall feel an additional pleasure in
                            promoting the public interest from my knowledge that I at the same time fulfill both your Excellency’s public judgment
                            & private inclination. I have the honor to be with perfect respect & sincere regard yr Excelly’s Obt
                            & hble servt

                            J. Madison Jr


Title: From George Washington to Elias Boudinot, 30 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Boudinot, Elias

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Newburg 30 April 1783

                        I have the honor to transmit to your Excellency for the observation of Congress a Copy of a Letter which I
                            have written to Sir Guy Carleton in consequence of their Resolutions of the 15th instant—Also a Copy of Sir Guy’s Reply
                            agreable to which I expect to meet him at Tappan, on the 5th of May.
                        the Proceedings & Result of this Interview so far as shall be necessary I shall have the honor to
                            transmit to Congress on my Return. I have the honor to be Sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and humble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Carlile, 30 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Carlile, John,Bleecker, Leonard

                            Gentlemen
                            Head Quarters. 30th April 1783

                        It having been suggested to me that such a Measure would be agreeable to many Officers. I had, Some Time
                            before I received your Letter & Memorial of the 26th instant, written to the Secty at War, making the same
                            proposition as is mentioned by you, exclusive of the Idea of Emoluments (which Idea was particularly hinted); and grounded
                            the propriety of the Measure upon the principle of its involving no additional Expence in the Execution; at the same Time
                            that it would prove an agreeable Reward to Merit, and be a gratifull Satisfaction to many deserving Officers.
                        This proposition is probably now under Consideration—to extend it therefore at this Time, so as to embrace
                            the Emoluments of Compensation, would I confess, be going beyond my own Ideas, & would perhaps be a means of
                            preventing the Attainment of the Rank I have solicited—I would advise therefore to a suspension
                            at least, for the present if not a suppression of the Memorial, which has been handed me. I am &c.

                            G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Harrison, Sr., 30 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Harrison, Benjamin, Sr.

                            My dear Sir,
                            Newburgh Apl 30th 1783

                        I thank you very sincerely for your kind congratulations on the close of the War, & the glorious
                            Peace which is held out to us, but not yet made definitive; I return them with great cordiallity & heartfelt
                            pleasure; & only wish that the business was so far wound up as that I might return to the walks of private life
                            & in retirement enjoy that relaxation & repose which is absolutely necessary for me.
                        My first wish now is that the States may be wise—that they may improve the advantages which they have
                            obtained—that they may consider themselves individually, as parts of the great whole; & not by unreasonable
                            jealousies, & in founded prejudices, destroy the goodly fabrick we have been Eight years labouring to erect—But
                            without more liberallity of Sentiment & action—I expect but little.
                        Immediately upon the reciept of your Letter of the 31st Ulto, I transmitted the list of your Slaves to a
                            Gentleman—a worthy active man—of my acquaintance in N.York & requested him to use his endeavors to obtain
                            & forward them to you. All that can be done, I am sure he will do, but I have but little expectation that many
                            will be recovered—several of my own are with the Enemy but I scarce ever bestowed a thought on them—they have so many
                            doors through which they can escape from New York, that scarce any thing but an inclination to return, or a voluntarily
                            surrender themselves will restore many to their former masters, even supposing every disposition on the part of the Enemy
                            to deliver them. With great truth & sincerity I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obt & Affe Ser.

                            Go: W——n


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 30 April 1783
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Paris 30th April 1783.

                        This will have the honor of being delivered to your Excellency by Il Comte di Vermé Cousin to Prince
                            Caromanico the Neapolitan Ambassador at the Court of London, who in pursuit of his travels intends very shortly a Visit to
                            the United States of America. Permit me to introduce this Nobleman to Your Excellency’s acquaintance and Protection; I
                            have not the honor of personal Knowledge of the Count, but am informed he is a Gentleman of Rank and Distinction and am
                            particularly requested by Mr O’Beirne private Secretary to the Duke of Portland to give him letters of Introduction, which
                            besides the Regard due to Mr O’Beirne I esteem as immediately coming from His Grace, whose good Will and earnest Endeavors
                            for the Repose of our Country merit the Respect and Consideration of all its Citizens.
                        We are now in a train of Negotiation with David Hartley Esquire Minister Plenepotentiary from Great Britain
                            which I hope will be speedily and happily concluded, so many things however have lately fallen out between the Cup and the
                            Lip as tend to keep my Expectations in a State of due Moderation—The great aim on the other side is to open Trade and
                            Intercourse, Mine the Removal of all the British Forces and to put the Citizens of New York in immediate possession of
                            their City, Port and Harbour, these must go hand in hand, when both are accomplished, I shall begin to think We are at
                            Peace; Trade will find its Way even blindfold. I beg sir you will do me the honor to present my Compliments to Mrs
                            Washington, and to be assured I continue With the highest Respect & Esteem, Dear Sir Your Excellency’s Obedient
                            & most humble servant

                            Henry Laurens


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 30 April 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 30th April 1783

                        I enclose to you the Reports, which I have received from the several Lines & Corps of the Army under
                            my Command, accepting the Commutation proposed by the Resolution of Congress of the 22d of March. Colo. Olneys Regiment
                            being at Saratoga, I have not yet been made acquainted with this Election—but will forward it as soon as received.
                        You will also find inclosed a Copy of a Letter from Brigr Genl Irvine, which I send to you, to be
                            communicated to Congress—that they may be acquainted with the Disposition of the Indians, & decide on some
                            measures for the Security of the back Inhabitants, against the Designs of the Savages—I would only suggest whether a
                            movement of some part, or all the Pennsylvania Troops with those of Virginia at Winchester at the moment, towards the back
                            Settlements, might not have a happy Influence towards checking these Mischiefs & stoppg the progress of the
                            Indians—At the same Time, those Troops—at least such of them whose Times of Service do not expire with the War, may be
                            advancing towards the Western posts, which Congress may think proper to establish, rendezvousing first at Pittsburg.
                        I have received your two favors of the 22d & 24th instant with their several Enclosures.I have the
                            Honor to be &c.


Title: To George Washington from Elisha Boudinot, April 1783
From: Boudinot, Elisha
To: Washington, George

                            New Ark  April 1783

                        Amidst that general Joy which is diffused thro The States on the establishment of our independance, and a
                            restoration of the blessings of peace; will your Excellency permit an individual, deeply interested in your happiness, to
                            give vent if possible, to his feelings on this occasion; and most sincerely to congratulate you on the final
                            accomplishment of our most sanguine hopes.
                        The thought, that your Excellency has survived the contest, adds a pleasure to the enjoyment that no other
                            event could possibly give—It has been my earnest prayr that Heaven would preserve your life to compleat the liberation of
                            your country from tyranny, and see her safely secured in peace, independance and happiness, and to receive the gratefull
                            acknowledgments of a whole people—Nothing can afford a great Mind more real pleasure than the Idea, of being the happy
                            instrument of giving birth to an empire, the future nursery of every principle that can ennoble man, an asylum for the
                            persecuted of all Nations, and in fact rendering happiness to one quarter of the globe—It is a satisfaction that an Angel
                            might aspire after, and which you Sir, are justly entitled to enjoy—I am confident that the Idea of this has supported your
                            Excellency in the many distressing Scenes you have passed thro to the final completion of our wishes.
                        You have finished your part, it only remains that your country should equal in gratitude the toils, the
                            dangers and solicitude you have endured for them—that they will do this collectively there is no doubt; but some thing
                            still remains to perfect the reward; to convince you that every individual feels that real affection & gratitude
                            for you, that they ought, to the Father and Deliverer of their country—this only can be done by the representation of
                            private persons, which will I hope apologize for this entrusion—My publick business calls me into every county of this
                            State, and a very general acquaintance with the inhabitants: and I am certain: I should do to them the greatest injustice,
                            did I not assure your Excellency, that there is scarsely a Man or Woman among them but what entertains these sentiments,
                            and who have a Monument erected to you in their breasts, that can only be effaced with their lives—Was it possible for
                            your Excellency to have a view of the whole country at once, and see the honest farmers around their fires, blessing your
                            Name, and teaching their children to lisp your praises; you would forget your toils & labours, and thank Heaven
                            that you was born to bless a grateful land.
                        When your Excellency is retiring from the field, will you indulge the Inhabitants of this State to spend a
                            short time, as you are passing thro; free from care, where you have spent so much in distress and anxiety of Mind; that
                            they may have an opportunity of personally convincing you of their attachment!
                        I take the liberty to inclose, and beg your acceptance of an Ode written by my father in law Mr Smith on the
                            present occasion.
                        Mrs Boudinot joins me in entreating that you will be kind enough to make our sincere congratulations
                            acceptable to Mrs Washington and to assure her that we participate in the joy that she above all others must  at this
                            time.
                        That you may both long, long enjoy that cup of happiness which Providence has so compleatly filled, is the
                            fervent desire of him who is with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most hble & obt Srvt

                            Elisha Boudinot

                     Enclosure

                            1. At length war’s sanguine scenes are o’er,
                            Her dire alarms are heard no more
                            Thro’ all Columbia’s plain:
                            Sweet peace descends with balmy wings,
                            And heaven–born independance brings
                            With freedom in her train.

                            Chorus
                            Hail! heaven descended guests, all hail!
                            Peace, independance, freedom, hail!

                            2. Ruler of Kings! thy mandate shook
                            The fated monarch’s throne, and struck
                            The Jewel from his crown:
                            Thy wisdom the rude states–man taught—
                            With aid divine the soldier fought—
                            The weak an empire won.

                            Chorus.
                            Hail! Sov’reign wisdom, goodness hail!
                            Peace, independance, freedom hail!

                            3. Oh! shed thy heav’nly influence down!
                            Form the new States to high renown,
                            Far as the Orients’ shore.
                            Let Justice lift aloft her hand!
                            Virtues, pure rob’d, patrole the land,
                            Till suns revolve no more.

                            Chorus
                            Hail! train of heaven, bright–mantles hail!
                            Peace, independance, freedom hail!

                            4. Publick devotion!—glorious flame!
                            That gave to Rome immortal fame,
                            Thy sacred ardors bring:
                            Religion chief, angelic maid!
                            In ev’ry breast thy empire spread,
                            To purge corruptions spring.

                            Chorus
                            Hail! pure atherial Graces hail!
                            Peace, independance, freedom, hail!

                            5. Her darling son, Columbia’s boast!
                            Envy and dread of Albion’s host!
                            His patriotfaulchion sheath.
                            Celestial meeds in ample flow
                            Crown the Deliver! bind his brow
                            With honors endless wreaths!

                            Chorus
                            Hail! Washington! Deliverer hail!
                            Peace, independance, freedom hail!

                            6. Prince of illustrious christian name!
                            Historic pens shall mark thy fame
                            Till times long annals close:
                            Rous’d at oppression’s general grief,
                            Thy godlike arms extend relief;
                            Then—give a world repose.

                            Chorus
                            Hail! christian King! reliever hail!
                            Peace, independance, freedom hail!

                            7. Now let the loud shrill clarions play,
                            Triumphant peals proclaim the day,
                            Th’united States are free!
                            While round all chearing music floats
                            And echoing hills rebound the notes,
                            God’s firm and just decree!

                            Chorus
                            Hallelujah! hallelujah!
                            Hallelujah! Hallelujah!


Title: To George Washington from Edward Hand, April 1783
From: Hand, Edward
To: Washington, George

                             April 1783

                        As the Militia of the United States if well regulated & under good government will at all times be
                            able to repel, or at least check the progress of any sudden invasion it will be altogether unnecessary to keep up a
                            standing Army in time of peace for that purpose, but there are other purposes for which I think it will be absolutely
                            necessary to retain a few regular troops in constant service. I mean for the protection of Public Magazines &
                            garrisoning frontier posts.
                        A Grand Magazine of Warlike stores, should always be kept at Westpoint, and another high up on Chesapeak Bay,
                            from which supplies might be speedily furnished to the extreme parts of the United States—perhaps subordinate Magazines at
                            convenient distances might also be necessary.
                        For the protection of Trade, and encouragement of Setlers when the Country shall be open’d to them—As well as
                            to ballance the force which the neighbouring powers will probably keep on foot on their frontiers—A post should be
                            established at the mouth of the St Croix river or Penobscot, one at the head of Connecticut river
                        one on Lake Champlain one at Swegatchi, or Oswego one at Niagara one at Detroit one at
                            Mitchillimakinac, or St Marys
                        one above Fort Charters on the Missisipi river to detach into the Country eastward one at the mouth of the
                            Ohio. one between the old Arkansas & Maget River opposite Lake Mitchigamias one on the Kazoo river near the
                            Spanish boundary one at the head of St Marys river and one at the mouth of the same—To Garrison the whole of these posts
                            presuming that the Indians will be our friends I demand no more than 1200 Infantry rank & file—201 Artillerists
                            including Noncommissioned and 86 Artificers in the whole 1487 Vizt.

                                Infantry

                                Artillerist

                                Artificers

                                For Westpoint

                                150

                                50

                                12

                                Chesapeak

                                50

                                25

                                8

                                St Croix or Penobscot

                                100

                                12

                                5

                                Head of Connectt river

                                50

                                6

                                5

                                Lake Champlain

                                50

                                12

                                5

                                Swegatchi or Oswego

                                50

                                6

                                5

                                Niagara

                                100

                                15

                                5

                                Detroit

                                100

                                15

                                5

                                Michillimakinac

                                50

                                6

                                5

                                Upper post on the

                                Missisipi with its

                                Detachment

                                150

                                18

                                6

                                Mouth of the Ohio

                                50

                                6

                                5

                                Arkansas

                                50

                                6

                                5

                                Kazoo

                                100

                                6

                                5

                                Head of St Marys

                                50

                                6

                                5

                                Mouth of—do

                                    100

                                    12

                                    5

                                1200

                                201.

                                26

                        The Infantry I would form into two regiments of 500 rank & file each, and one battalion of 200 the
                            battalion to garrison the two Grand Magazines, one regiment the posts from St Croix to Michillimakinac inclusive, the
                            other from the upper post on the Missisipi to the mouth of St Mary inclusive—The whole to receive their
                            orders from a Genl officer.
                        Victualing the frontier posts will be the greatest expence and often attended with difficulty & sometimes
                            disappointment if the flour be transported from the interior Country—to lessen the expence &
                            remove every other difficulty—I would recomend the laying off a tract of land adjacent to each proportioned to the
                            strength of the Garrison, which the soldiers should be obliged to cultivate, the produce to be delivered to the Contractor
                            or Public Magazine and its value, at a moderate estimate, paid to the soldiers in necessaries—or money where necessaries
                            are not wanted—of which the Commanding officer should judge—by this means Bread for the Garrison and every kind of usefull
                            Vegitable would after the first year be furnished on the spot, on easy terms, the soldiers kept in constant repair by
                            their own industry & those who had families enabled to support them without putting the United States to the
                            expence of rations. The officer’s proportion of the farm would furnish them with vegitables, poultry, butter &
                            milk for their tables, and forage for their Cattle & horses.
                        The Cattle and tools of Husbandry necessary for working the Garrison farm once furnished by the United States
                            might be kept up at the expence of the Garrison—the same may be said of Seed grain.
                        It appears to me that after the men now engaged are discharged a very considerable reform may be made in the
                            soldiers pay & Cloathing—4 Dollars per month to the soldiers, 6 to the Drumers, fifers & Corporals and 8
                            to the serjeant would be ample pay—the pay of the Noncommissioned officers may be thought extravegant
                            but their number will be small—and is necessary to make them feel the importance of their station—If the soldier received
                            yearly a good ful coat, vest & breeches of good cloath, & shirts, one black Stock, 2 pr stockings, 2 pr of
                            shoes & an hat, all good in their kind—his pay would put it in his power to buy all other necessaries especially on
                            the plan I formerly proposed of paying the Army.
                        Blankets are not made an Article of the soldiers Clothing, as in time of peace the Barracks are supposed to be
                            supplied with Bedding.
                        In time of peace forage for riding horses or baggage Teams should be allowed on a march only. Tho the number
                            of troops kept on foot will be small, for regularity sake it will be necessary to keep up the principal staff Departments
                            As the persons holding those offices will not be wholly taken up by them—I presume their pensions need not be extravigant.
                        Baron Steuben having treated very fully on military schools I shall be silent on that head.
                        The Militia to make them really formidable should be governed by the same rules, and be on the same
                            establishment throughout the United States—they should be compleatly armed and Accoutred as directed by the regulations
                            for the order and Dicipline of the Army—the Arms & Accoutrements should be of the same size & quality—and
                            those of every regiment numbered & Branded to prevent impositions, the whole of a regiment should appear with
                            their Arms, Accoutriments, Amunition, Knapsacks, Havresacks, and Canteens for Inspection on the same day—or send them to
                            the parade if unable to attend themselves—once in six months the Governor of each state should have an exact state of the
                            Militia of the state, a Duplicate which should be sent to the War office for the information of Congress. It would be of
                            singular advantage if the officers & Noncommissioned officers who have acquired a competent knowledge of the
                            regular service were introduced into the Militia when it could be done without giving jealousy.
                        The Militia should be instructed generally in the cerimony of mounting Guards, the duties of officers and
                            soldiers on Guard, the manner of incamping—priming, loading, & firing by
                            word of command—indeed as far as practicable they should be made acquainted with the Manoeuvres and Evolutions usually
                            practiced by Armies in the field.
                        When assembled under Arms, strict subordination should be observed & every species of irregularity
                            made punishable on the spot—each state should always have in readiness a proportion of Camp equipage, intrenching tools,
                            Baggage & Amunition waggons—unless these articles were always to be had with convenience from the Continental
                            Magazines.
                        The Inlistment of soldiers for Magazine Guards & frontier posts should be for three years or longer,
                            but not all from the same period, that a magazine or post of consequence might not at any time be entrusted to an entire
                            set of recruits unacquainted with duty. Once in every year the discipline and oeconomy of each Garrison, the state of the
                            stores, Buildings and fortifications should be inspected by a person of experience & judgement & report
                            made to Congress Duplicates of which should be transmitted to the officer having the Genl
                            command.
                        The quantity of Fuel & Candles to be allowed to officers & soldiers should be regulated by
                            the season and Climate—the value of the proportion of fuel allowed might be paid to such persons as
                            supplied themselves.
                        Rum should not be considered as constituting part of the ration of provision—the ration might consist of
                            seven pounds of good flour or Nine pounds of Bread eight lbs. fresh Beef or Mutton, or six lbs. of fresh pork per man for
                            Seven days—when salt Beef or pork was issued Seven lbs. of the former or five and one fourth lbs. of the latter—Vinegar in
                            a considerable proportion should be allowed particularly in summer—each British soldier is allowed a Gill of salt for
                            every seven rations of fresh meat a Quart of small, malt, molasses, or spruce Beer should be daily allowed each soldier
                            when to be procured—If pulse or vegetables of any kind could be furnished the quantities of Bread
                            & Meat above proposed might be proportionately diminished—and when small Beer was not to be procured some other
                            usefull Article should be substituted—As at most of the frontier post it will be very practicable to procure large
                            quantities of Fish, A Compleat fishing apperatus should be provided at such places, as it may be servisable—Magazines of
                            fish laid in & issued to the troops in certain proportions in lieu of flesh.


Title: General Orders, 1 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Thursday May 1st 1783
                     Parole Hallifax.
                     C. signs SommersetWakefield

                  For duty tomorrowBrigr Genl PattersonB. Qr Mr Hampshire BrigdeThe Jersey regt gives the Guards, and the Jersey battalion the Fatigues tomorrow.
                  The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolve.
                  By the United States in Congress assembled the 23d April 1783.  Resolved That in the opinion of Congress the time of the men engaged to serve during the war does not expire untill the ratification of the definitive treaty of Peace.
                  That such of the Noncommissioned officers and privates soldiers of the above description as continue in service to that period, shall be allowed the fire arms and accoutrements as an extra reward for their long and faithful services.
                  At a General courtmartial held in Philadelphia the 23d of april by order of the Secretary at War—Major McPherson president—William Forsythe soldier in the Delaware regt was tried, for mutiny and disobedience of Captain Jacquets personal orders—The court find him guilty in breach of the 3d & 5th articles of section 2d of the rules and articles of war—and sentence him to receive one hundred Lashes.
John Willar Soldier in the pennsylvania Line was tried For Mutiny and speaking disrespectfully of HisExcellency Genl Washington & Congress—also drinking a health to King George—The Court find him guilty in breach of the 2d art. of the 2d Sect. of the Articles of war and sentence him to receive one hundred lashes & be drumned out of the Army with a halter around his Neck.John Witeskay and Charles Bier soldiers in the pennsylvania Line were tried and convicted of Desertion, and sentenced each of them to receive one hundred Lashes, But from their former good character, and being young soldiers, the Court beg leave to recommend them for Mercy.
                  The Commander in chief approves the foregoing sentences, but is pleased to pardon Witeskay and Bier, and to remit so much of Willars sentence as relates to the halter.
                  After Orders.
                  The Light companies of the Jersey the 2d York, 5th & 8th Massachusetts regt will take post on the Lines—They are to be on the Grand parade at 9 o’clock tomorrow morning and put themselves under the orders of Major Fish.


Title: From George Washington to Elijah Churchill, 1 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Churchill, Elijah

                      1 May 1783

                  George Washington Esquire General and Commander in Chief of the Forces of the United States of America &c.  &c. &c. To All to whom these presents shall come, sendeth Greeting.
                  Whereas it hath ever been an established maxim in the American Service, that the Road to Glory was open to All, that Honorary Rewards and Distinctions were the greatest Stimuli to virtuous Actions, and that distinguished Merit should not pass unnoticed or unrewarded; and Whereas a Board of Officers whereof Brigadier General Greaton is President, hath been constituted and appointed for the purpose of investigating the several pretensions of the Candidates for the Badge of Military Merit; and said Board having Reported in the Words following, viz.
                  "That Serjeant Elijah Churchill of the 2d Regiment of Light Dragoons, in the several Enterprises against Fort St George and Fort Slongo on Long Island, in their opinion acted a very conspicuous and singularly meritorious past; that at the Head of each Body of Attack, he not only acquitted himself with great gallantry, firmness and address; but that the Surprize in one instance, and the success of the attack in the other, proceeded in a considerable degree from his Conduct and management."
                  Now therefore Know Ye, that the aforesaid Serjeant Elijah Churchill, hath fully and truely deserved, and hath been properly invested with the Honorary Badge of Military Merit, and is authourized & intitled to pass and repass all Guards & Military Posts as fully and amply as any Commissioned Officer whatever; And is Hereby further Recommended to that favorable Notice which a Brave and Faithfull Soldier deserves from his Countrymen.  Given under my hand & Seal at the Head Quarters of the American Army, this first day of May 1783.


Title: From George Washington to Armand-Louis de Gontaut Biron, duc de Lauzun, 1 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lauzun, Armand-Louis de Gontaut Biron, duc de

                     My Dear Duke
                     Newburgh May the 1st 1783

                  It was with pain I received information from the Chevr De la Luzerne that the French Corps under your orders was recalled—This event, I fear will take you from this Country contrary to my wishes, and what you were polite enough to say—your own inclination before you had visited the southern states.
                  No circumstance would contribute more to my satisfaction than to have the pleasure of your company at mount vernon and to shew you every attention and respect in your proposed Tour—I will still hope for this pleasure—but if circumstances direct otherwise you will carry my warmest wishes with you and though I cannot at this moment assure myself of the Practicability of a visit to France—the pleasure of meeting you there would be one of my greatest inducements—and if I come I shall claim your promise of accompaneying me on the tour you marked out.
                  I depart from this place to morrow for the purpose of having an intervew with Sir Guy Carlton on munday next at Dobbss Ferry to settle matters respecting the evacuation of the Posts and security of american property agreably to the 7th article of the provisional treaty and a resolve of congress of the 15th of last month.
                  I shall not in this letter bid you more than a temporary adieu because I do not relenquish the hope of your remaining some time on this Continent after the French Troops shall have embarked. I have the honour to be with the greatest consideration and respect Sir your most obedt and most Hble servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Armand-Louis de Gontaut Biron, duc de Lauzun, 1 May 1783
From: Lauzun, Armand-Louis de Gontaut Biron, duc de
To: Washington, George

                        Mon Général
                        a Philadelphie Le Premier Mai 1783

                     J’ai L’honeur de vous rendre compte qu’en conséquence des Instructions qui m’ont eté envoiées de France, les trouppes que je comande pourront être embarquées le neuf de ce mois, si Votre Excellence le juge convenable.  Le Roi mon maitre m’ordonne particulierement de soumettre entierement le départ de Ses trouppes a la decision de Votre Excellence.
                     Je vous suplie, Mon Général, de permettre que je saisisse cette occasion de presenter à Votre Excellence les respectueux sentiments d’attachement, d’admiration, et de reconnaissance dont le Corps Français dont je Suis resté le Chef, est pénétré pour votre personne; Nous serons a jamais glorieux d’avoir combattu sous les ordres et sous les yeux du Général Washington.
                     J’avais espéré rester en Amerique jusques a l’automne, les ordres que j’ai reçu m’obligent a repasser en Europe avec les trouppes; mais je ne renonce pas a l’espoir de venir bientôt en Amerique rappeller a votre Excellence, combien nous serions heureux de la recevoir en France.  Je suis avec le plus profond respect, Mon Général Votre trés humble et trés obeissant Serviteur
                  Le Duc de Lauzun
                  Translation
                     SirPhilada May 1st 1783I have the honor to inform you that in consequence of Instructions I have received from France—the Troops which I command—may be Embarked the 9th of this Month if your Excellency thinks proper—The King my Master has particularly directed me to submit the departure of his troops entirely to your Excellencys decision.
                     Permit me Sir, to seize this occasion to present to your Excellency—the respectfull Sentiments of attachment admiration & acknowledgement—with which the french Corps (of which I remain the cheif) is penetrated—it will be ever our glory to have fought under the orders & under the Eyes of Genl Washington.
                     I had hoped to have remained in America till the Autumn but the orders I have reced oblige me to go with the Troops to Europe—but I do not renounce the hope of returning soon to assure your Excellency how happy we shall be to receive you in France.  I am &c.