Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste-Joseph, comte de Laumoy, 14 October 1783
From: Laumoy, Jean-Baptiste-Joseph, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia Octr the 14th 1783.

                        According to your Excellency’s Desire I have the Honor to Send you a Summary Account of my Services in
                            America.
                        I first joined the Army under your Excellency’s Command on the 6th of Octr 1777 with the Rank of Lt Col. of
                            Engineers. I attended a Short time after the Marquis de la fayette when he attaked the british Post at Glocester &
                            when after this I was determined by a Council of War to abandon & blow up fort Redbank, I, with
                            Col. Du Plessis and a Sergeant of Artillery undertook & compleated the Busyness.
                        On the 17th of Novr I was promoted to the Rank of full Colonel. In the beginning of Decr was detached to
                            Willmington with Genal Smallwood’s Division, where, being the only Engineer I erected Several Works for the Security of
                            the garrison. In April 1778 I repaired at Valley-forge and followed your Excellency to Monmouth; then to the White plains,
                            where I, with Col. La Radiere and Col. Villefranche reconnoitred all the Ground between the Camp and King’s Bridge, with
                            Several Detachements under the Command of Generals Scott and Michlemberg.
                        In Septr following I was Sent, by your Excellency, to Philadelphia with Col. Villefranche to take a Survey of
                            the River Delaware, in order to form a Plan of Deffence. Having been ordered in february 1779 to the Southern, this
                            Busyness was compleated by Col. Villefranche.
                        I Staid in Sth Carolina, as Commanding Officer of the Engineers, under the Command of Genal Lincoln, till the
                            taking of Charlestown. I was at the attack of the River of Stone-ferry and at the Sieges of Savannah &
                            Charlestown, whose attack and Dffence I had the Direction of as Chief Engineer, and all of which I had the Honor of giving
                                plans and journals to your Excellency last fall.
                        Having had the Misfortune to be taken prisoner at this last Siege, I could not be exchanged till the Month of
                            August 1782, when I repaired immediately to New-Windsor.
                        Conscious that in all these Services my only Aim was to promote, as far as laid in my Power the Good of the
                            Cause I had espoused, and that I Spared none of my faculties for it, I wish that your Excellency may be Satisfyed with the
                            Same, and beg that you would give me a Certificate, for which I will for ever have the greatest Gratitude. I have the Honor
                            to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient and most humble Servant

                            Laumoy


Title: To George Washington from Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle Duportail, 15 October 1783
From: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle
To: Washington, George

                            dear General
                            philadelphia 15th oct. 1783

                        gnl laumoy & Colonel gouvion have informed me of the Regret your Excellency has been pleased to
                            express for our leaving this Country. I am exceedingly flattered with it and beg you to Receive my sincere thanks—I will
                            ask only the permission of telling a word in defense of my last measure—you know, dear general, that there are in this
                            Country great many men even among those who are at the head of gouvrnement, who have so narrow ideas as not to be able to
                            discern who may be Really usefull to america hereafter, who is not—even some go farther and look upon a military man as an
                            inutile burthen to the people and if that military man is a foreigner besides it is a great deal worse with them. I think
                            that in such a Country a foreigner who has some delicacy ought not to stay unless Requested of it and in such a manner as
                            not to leave any doubt to any body that his services are generally acknowleged absolutely necessary even since we are in
                            america we always followed those principles, your Excellency Remembers it probably and I hope will think it was yet more
                            proper to follow them in those present Circumstances. I took the liberty of descending into those particulars, because I
                            shall be very sorry to do anything not approved by your Excellency. if Congress had thought that our future services
                            should be necessary they would have probably taken the same measures as they have done the other times during the war so
                            we cannot be blamed for leaving them now of the most interesting moment. I have the honour to be with the greatest Respect
                            your Excellency the most obedient and humble servant

                            duportail


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 15 October 1783
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Boston October 15th 1783

                        My feelings as a private Friend, & the very great personal regard for Your Excellency with which I
                            have been penetrated ever since I had the Honor of an Acquaintance with you, would by no means allow me to see you
                            retiring from your important Employments without paying you my particular Attentions. But when as a Public Man, warmly
                            attach’d to the Interest of my Country, I consider the nature of those Services which you have rendered to that Country;
                            when I recollect the Cares you have sustained, the Fatigues you have endured, & the Dangers you have confronted
                            for the Public Safety; when I call to mind the many instances in which your Abilities, your Prudence, your Fortitude,
                            & Patience have been superior to the severest Trials; & when I now see the great Object of all so
                            completely obtained in the Establishment of the Independence & Peace of the United States; my Heart is too full to
                            forbear to Congratulate Your Excellency in the most Respectful & Affectionate manner, upon an Issue so happy to
                            them & so glorious to yourself.
                        To all your Services as Commander in Chief of an Army that has in a manner Astonishing to the whole World
                            efficaciously supported the Freedom of America, you have constantly added, & particularly in your late Circular
                            Letter to the States, the result of your uncommon Wisdom & Experience as a Statesman to Assist us in improving to
                            the happiest purposes the Advantages gained by our Arms.
                        After such Services, which consecrate your Name to all Posterity, with what homefelt Satisfaction must your
                            future Days be Blest? Heaven Crown them with every Favor! May you long Live, my dear General & long have the Joy
                            to see the increasing Splendor & Prosperity of a rising Nation aided by your Councils & Defended by your
                            Sworde.
                        Indulge me the Pleasure to believe that I have a place in your Recollections, & still Honor &
                            make me happy in your Friendship. I have the honor to be, With the most perfect Sentiments of Regard & Esteem, Dear
                            General, Your most Obedt & very faithful hble Servt

                            John Hancock


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 15 October 1783
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            West point 15th October 1783.

                        Yesterday I had the honor to receive your Excellency’s favor of the 8th instant. In consequence of which, and
                            one of the same date, to the Quarter Master General, we shall set to work to procure firewood for the Garrison who will
                            probably be retained here during the winter. This I propose shall be performed by the men whose times of service will
                            expire in December and January, to receive their discharges as soon as the task assigned them shall be finished. The
                            number of this description upon the returns are more than five hundred, but there are so many detached duties, sick
                            &c., I do not imagine that we shall get more than three hundred workingmen. If those should not be sufficient, we
                            might add the men whose enlistments terminate in February.
                        We have determined, upon the side of the mountain, on the road from this to murderers creek just beyond the
                            block house, as the place from which the wood may be most easily obtained, all things considered—The men will bring it to
                            the foot of the mountain, and from thence it will be transported by teams, if they can be procured. As this necessary
                            business is very arduous, I think no other stimulation to its performance, in our power to offer, will be equal to an
                            anticipated discharge. And this I hope will be conformable to your Excellencys opinion.
                        We shall place one of the Massats regiment in the Huts built last winter by Colonel Swift’s regiment. The
                            others, we hope to be able, after the wood party shall be discharged, to put in the barracks and out posts.
                        I have permitted Colonel Crane, and Lieut. Colonel Huntington to retire upon the same principles as those
                            Officers who retired last June. It was so evident, from the state of the Corps these Gentlemen were in that the service
                            could not be injured, that I did not hesitate to gratify them. It is probable that other officers, similarly
                            circumstanced, may wish to retire, particularly in the Connecticut regiment, the most of whom will be discharged soon in
                            which case, I shall consider it, conforming to your views and those of Congress to suffer them to go.
                        I enclose the weekly return of the troops. And I also enclose a return of Clothing wanted, according to the
                            returns made to me. The men are now in a wretched situation for want of warm under clothes, having only the remnants of the
                            thin overalls and waistcoats purchased by themselves last Spring.
                        The rapid advance of the winter season, will not only extremely injure their healths, but render them entirely
                            unfit for duty, except they shall be better clad.
                        Your Excellency must be so impressed with the necessity of this matter, that I need only mention it, to be
                            certain of an immediate operation of your influence to obtain a supply. I have the honor to be with great respect your
                            Excellency’s most obedient servant

                            H. Knox.


Title: From George Washington to Armand-Louis de Gontaut Biron, duc de Lauzun, 15 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lauzun, Armand-Louis de Gontaut Biron, duc de

                            My Dr Duke

                            Princeton 15th October 1783

                        With grateful affection I received the honor of your Letter of the 11th of June from Brest; &
                            rejoiced as much at the ease & quickness of your passage, as at the favorable reception you have met with from
                            your Prince.
                        Be pleased, on these occasions, to accept my warmest congratulations & best wishes.
                        It gave me pleasure to find, that you held in remembrance the promise you made of visiting me in Virginia—I
                            will put a Seal to the ratification of it, & place it among my choicest deposits, ’till you come to redeem it.
                        New York is not yet evacuated, nor is the Definitive Treaty arrived. Upon the happening of either of these
                            events, I shall bid a final adieu to a military life, & in the shade of retiremant ruminate on the marvellous
                            scenes that are passed; & in contemplating the wonderful workings of that Providence, which has raised up so many
                            instruments, & such powerful Engines (among which your nation stands first) to over throw the British pride & power,
                            by so great a revolution.
                        Congress are sitting at this place, the cause of which you have doubtless heard—The Falls of Delaware (at or
                            near Trenton) is made choice of for their permanent residence. At their desire, I have been with them, near two months
                            & shall remain with them, ’till one of the events before mentioned shall give me a dismission. In the course of
                            last summer I visited lakes George & Champlain (as far as Crown point)—the Mohawk river to Fort Stanwix—thence
                            over to Wood Creek; & on my return traversed the country to the Susquehanna, & viewed the Otsego Lake, which is
                            at the head of it. I shall not be satisfyed ’till I do the same by the exterior boundary of the United States, but when,
                            if ever I shall be able to accomplish these wishes, is a matter of too much uncertainty for me to decide upon, at this
                            moment. With great consideration &ca I am,

                            G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 15 October 1783
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                        Dear General,
                            War Office, October 15 1783.

                        There are in Philadelphia six or eight officers and about one company of the invalid regiment. They are in a
                            situation disagreeable to themselves and expensive to the public. Some of the Officers, by the loss of limbs and other
                            inabilities, are rendered totally incapable of acquiring by their own exertions a support in life—others are in a degree
                            debilitated, while some seem to have recovered from their wounds, and now enjoy a pretty good state of health, and would
                            go into business with advantage. Anxious that there should be a discrimination made between such officers and those in the
                            former classes, I wish, while the former are provided for by Congress, according to the inabilities, services and
                            sufferings of such Officers, the latter may be permitted to return to their homes, on the same footing as other officers of
                            the lines of the army have been. I some months since laid the state of the disabled Officers before Congress, but nothing
                            has yet been done in it, and the multiplicity of business now before Congress precludes a hope that it will soon be
                            decided upon.
                        I beg leave therefore, to suggest to your Excellency the propriety of having those troops now at Philadelphia
                            immediately mustered, and those who are fit objects and wish to avail themselves of the benefits of the acts of Congress,
                            which permits soldiers to retire with the pay of five dollars per month during life, should be suffered to go to their
                            several homes—those who are not so entitled to be discharged—and the others, who are strangers in the country and are
                            rendered incapable of supporting themselves, should be immediately sent to the hospital at West Point which is an healthy
                            spot and where they can be supported with much less expence than will support them in Philadelphia. Besides, the Continent
                            have sufficient buildings for this purpose at West Point unoccupied, while they are at great expense for the hire of
                            hospitals wherein the sick and invalids now are, all of whom may be removed by water to West Point.
                        The officers under the first discriptions may also be removed, much to their own ease and happiness.
                        Should your Excellency be in sentiment with me, the post at Philadelphia may be soon broken up—and when the
                            source is dried, those streams of expence will cease flowing. I have the honor to be, dear General, with the highest
                            regard Your Excellency’s most obedient servant,

                            B. Lincoln


Title: From George Washington to Alexander McDougall, 15 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

                            Dear Sir
                            Rocky hill 15 Octob. 1783

                        By the last Post I was favord with your Letter of the 5 Instantand I take the earliest opportunity to
                            acquaint you of my compliance with your request.
                        Tho’ I have ever been averse to Officers going to New York on every slight pretext, I was always ready to
                            grant my permission when real business required their presence. With great regard am Dr Sir Your Most Obedient Servant

                    Go Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lachlan McIntosh, 15 October 1783
From: McIntosh, Lachlan
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General1
                            Savannah in Georgia 15th October 1783

                        I take the liberty of Introducing to your Excellencys notice the bearer, a young Gentleman of the French
                            Nation of great merit, under the Name of Capt. John DuCoins, of the American Army, whose story I beg Leave to trouble you
                            with.
                        He is the youngest & favorite Son of Luke De Costia an eminent Sugar Planter in Hispaniola near Cape
                                Toanesis, who has a large Family Settled out, all in affluent Circumstances in that Island—this
                            young Gentleman when he was only fifteen or Sixteen years of age, had some words with one Lewis Tropa,
                            an elderly Batchelor of mixed blood, but immensely rich, on Accot of his aged Father, whom Tropa had used ill, which
                            unavoidably brought on a Duel with the young man, in which Tropa fell; and the Laws of France being so exceedingly Severe
                            in those Cases, and the friends of the  rich, and determined to prosecute, oblig’d the young
                            Gentleman to change the appelation of John Frs Borigere De Costia, his real Name, to that of de Coins,
                            and fly for protection to the Spanish Governer at Saint Domingo, with whom he Lived for several Months.
                            He afterwards came to Philadelphia, where he engaged with Colo. John White as a Lieutenant in the fourth Georgia Regiment
                            in April 1777, and served in our Army with much reputation during the war, and as he has been
                            part of that time, under my own imediate observation, I assure your Excellency that he possesses as much tru  and Bravery as any Officer of his Rank whatever. this Misfortune gives him great Concern
                            & trouble and makes him exceeding unhappy, as it deprieves him forever of seeing
                                his old Father, & other friends, without he can obtain his King’s
                            pardon, which he Says is often got on these Occasions, and which he conceives is in your Excellencys
                            power alone,  applying to the Minister of France, the French Court or in any
                            other way you think proper in his favor which I hope your Excellency’s goodness and Humanity will induce you to do, to
                            make this deserving Young Gentleman and a whole Family happy—and it will be  an additional favor
                            upon, Your Excellency’s obliged and most obt Humble Servt

                            Lachn McIntosh


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 15 October 1783
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Philada October 15th 1783

                        I am sorry to find that the delay of my long intended visit to Prince Town has been attended with
                            inconvenience to you. but those delays were unavoidable being generally occasioned by want of money which could only be
                            raised whilst I was present here, each Week I proposed to Set out the ensuing one, but still fresh demands arose, to keep
                            me fixed to this Spot I have now some expectation of Seeing you here as intimations have reached us, of the probability
                            of Congress removing to this City, I wait the Certainty of this event & then shall determine whether to send
                            forward Your Wine, it is a parcell that was Sent in by Mr Boudfield of Bourdeaux & paid for by the United States.
                        I have caused the Depy Pay Master to be supplied with four Thousand Dollrs for Your use of which 1500 have
                            been paid to Mrs Washington & the rest I suppose sent forward to Yourself & your own Warrants will Cover
                            the payment. I most sincerely wish to See you here but if Congress do not adjourn to this place Mrs Morris &
                            myself will still pay you a visit if possible being most truely Dr Sir Your Affectionate humble servt

                            Robt Morris


Title: From George Washington to Philippe de Noailles, Duc de Mouchy, 15 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Mouchy, Philippe de Noailles, Duc de

                            Dear Sir,
                            Princeton Octr 15th 1783

                        Within these few days, I have had the honor to receive your favor of the 25th of April from Paris. My heart
                            will do me greater justice than my Pen, when I attempt the expression of my sensibility for your polite congratulation on
                            the happy termination of the War; and for the favorable sentiments you have expressed of my instrumentality in effecting
                            the Revolution.
                        It is to the magnanimous Sentiments of your Prince—the generous aids of your Nation—& to the gallantry of yourself, and the rest of her Sons, that we are to ascribe, in a very great degree, the happy Revolution which is
                            to fill an important page in history. As you have acted a conspicuous part on the American theatre, let it be an
                            inducement to you, to visit the rising Empire which your own endeavors have assisted to bring into existance—And let me in
                            that case, express to you how happy I should be to see you at my Cottage in Virginia—there to repeat to you the assurances
                            which I now give, of the sincere esteem, regard & consideration with which I have the honor to be Dr Count Yr Most
                            Obt & most Hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 15 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                            Princeton Octr 15th 1783

                        With what words, My dear Count, shall I express to you the sensibility of a heart which you have warmed by
                            the flattering sentiments that are conveyed in your Letters of the 14 of April, and 13th of July.
                        Your Sovereign has a claim to my highest admiration, respect & veneration. Your Nation is entitled to
                            all my gratitude—and those individuals of it who have been my Companions in War to my friendship and love. Can it be
                            wondered at then, that I should possess an ardent desire to visit your Country? But, as I observed to you in my letter of
                            the 10th of May it is not yet clear to me that I shall ever have it in my power to accomplish my wishes. My private
                            concerns have been very much deranged by an absence of more than Eight years, and require particular attention to put them
                            in order.
                        Congress, from causes which you have doubtless been informed of, and more than probably have seen published;
                            are now sitting at this place. they have fixed upon the Falls of Delaware (at or near Trenton) for their permanent
                            Residence; and will, I suppose, as soon as possible, prepare to establish themselves at it.
                        I have at their request been with them near two months, and shall remain with them till the Definitive Treaty
                            arrives, or till New York is evacuated by the British Forces; when I shall bid a final adieu to Public life; and in the
                            shade of retirement, look back on our past toils with grateful admiration of that benevolent Providence which has raised
                            up so many Instruments, to accomplish so great a Revolution, as the one you have had a share in bringing about.
                        When either of these events will certainly happen, it is difficult for me to determine; the first we have
                            been in anxious expectation of for four or five months, and of the latter not less than two. The other day, Genl Carleton
                            sent me word, that in all November he shd evacuate the Post and, that it might
                            happen by the 20th of the month; but we have already experienced so many disappointments, that I shall scarcely believe
                            they are going, ‘till they are without Sandy hook.
                        In the course of the last summer, I made a tour through Lakes George and Champlain as far as Crown
                            point—thence I went up the Mohawk River to Fort Stanwix, and crossed over to the Wood Creek—And on my return, viewed the
                            Otsego Lake, which is the head of the Eastern Branch of the Susquehanna. We have nothing new in this quarter, except the
                            arrival of Mr Van Berkel the Dutch Minister and a number of Foreigners from different parts of the Globe—some to Trade—some for Amusement—and some, I presume, to spy the Land. It is unnecessary, I am sure, to repeat to you the assurances
                            of esteem, respect & friendship, with which I have the honor to be My dear Count Yr Very Hble & Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 16 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                            Dear Sir
                            Rocky hill Octr 16th 1783

                        Since I had the pleasure to write to you on the 8th Instant, I have received your Letter of that date.
                        I am clearly of opinion that the services of those Men whose times expire so early in the spring, are not
                            adequate to their Clothing and Maintenance during the Winter, but, as I said in my last letter, such seems the disposition
                            of the members of Congress with whom I have conversed on the subject, that they are not willing to part with any of the
                            Troops whilst the British remain in New York—all therefore that can be done at present is what you propose, of getting
                            what service we can from some of those whose times first expire and then discharging them; whilst this is doing Congress
                            may possibly come to some determination on the matter.
                        I now inclose you sundry Resolves of Congress, which you will please to have published to the Army, tho some
                            of these have been passed some time, it was but within a very few days that I was officially acquainted with them. I am Dr
                            Sir Your most Obed. Servt

                                Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 16 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                            Dear Sir
                            Rocky-hill 16th Octobr 1783

                        Major Shaw not returning so soon as I immagined, and the subject of your Letter of the 28 September not
                            admitting much delay I take the opportunity of the Post to reply to it.
                        On referring to the Institution of the Society of the Cincinnati I find that the Chevr de la Luzerne, the
                            Sieur Gerard, the Counts D’Estaign, de Barras & De Grasse, the Chevalier des Touches, and the Count de Rochambeau,
                            with the Generals and Colonels of his Army, are to be presented with the Order of the society.
                        As it is however proper that these Gentlemen should be made acquainted with the nature of the Society, I
                            propose to write to each of those above named (except the Chevalier de la luzerne who was written to in the first
                            instance) and inclose them a Copy of the Institution, at the same time informing them, that Major L’Enfant is charged with
                            the execution of the Order, and has directions to furnish them from the first that are finished.
                        I propose also to inclose a Copy to the Marquis de la Fayette, and request him to take the signature of such
                            of the French Officers in our service, who are intitled and wish to become members, to receive their Months pay and
                            deliver them the Orders on their paying for them.
                        These Letters Major L’Enfant will carry with him, and deliver to each of those Gentlemen, and must be
                            directed to deliver them the Orders so soon as they are compleat, delivering to Count Rochambeau for the Officers of his
                            Command, who will receive them of him, and to the Marquis de la Fayette sufficient for the French Officers in our service,
                            who become Members.
                        I inclose to you the permission for Major L’Enfant to go to France, and a Certificate of his being a Member
                            of the Society; however before he setts off, I think it should be well explained, and understood by him, that the Voyage
                            is not undertaken for the Society, but that their business is committed to him, only in consequence of his going there on
                            his own affairs & consequently he is not to be paid any Expence of the Voyage on his Stay, but only such Extra
                            Expences as might be incurred by any person residing in France, who transacted the same business for the Society—these are
                            my sentiments—if they accord with yours and the rest of the Gentlemen, and he accepts these conditions—I think the sooner
                            he sets out, the better. I will be obliged to you to make out his instructions comprehending the objects I have mentioned
                            above, and such other as you may think necessary and to make the necessary arrangements with him respecting the funds to
                            be furnished—I am told subscriptions have been paid in by those who wish to have Orders—I propose taking seven, for which
                            the Money is ready at any time—and it may not be amiss in this place to inform you, that it has always been my intention
                            to present the society with 500 Dollars—if any part of this is necessary, and can with propriety be applied in this
                            business I have no objection—Majr LEnfant might also be directed to receive from the Marquis the Months pay of the French
                            Officers in our service who became members.
                        I must request you to procure Six or Seven Copies of the Institution to be made out neatly to transmit to the
                            Gentlemen above mentioned, Major L’Enfant can bring them on with him.
                        I intend immediately to write to the Commanding Officer of each of the State Lines who have not yet made
                            known their intentions respecting the formation of their State Societies pressing them to a determination—for as I wish to
                            adapt the place of the general Meeting to the convenience of all until I know which of the States form the Society I
                            cannot fix it. With great regard—I am Dr Sir Your most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 16 October 1783
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            My dear General,
                            West point 16th October 1783

                        Major L’Enfant will have the honor to wait upon your Excellency to solicit leave of absence and to obtain the
                            certificate, I requested, of his being a member.
                        His zeal to serve the Cincinnati has been conspicuously displayed in the emblems of the bald eagle, designs
                            of the medals, seal, and of that noble effort of genius, the diploma. He proposes to attend the execution of these several
                            objects in France, where they will be performed by the first artists. The seal, however, is excepted from this
                            arrangement, as not having been proposed to the convention, who framed the institution. It will therefore be left to delay
                            its execution, untill the general meeting should have decided upon it.
                        He will detail to your Excellency his intentions, and the arrangements he has made with the treasurer.
                        Colonel Gouvion has requested a certificate of his being a member of the Cincinnati, which will probably be
                            the case with most of the foreign Gentlemen in our service. And this appears but reasonable, as they have not received the
                            diploma.
                        Their numbers are not great, and the labor will not be much. I have taken the liberty to enclose an attested
                            certificate which if your Excellency should approve and sign, might serve as a form untill the diplomas could be obtained. I
                            am my dear General with the greatest respect and attachment Your obedient Servnt

                            H. Knox


Title: From George Washington to Robert Lewis, 16 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lewis, Robert

                            Gentn
                            Rocky Hill 16th Octor 1783

                        Since I was favored with your letter of Septr  I have
                            received the enclosed from Mr Lund Washington (who has charge of my business in Virginia) to Colo. Biddle; it was
                            accompanied with the following paragraph to me: "William Roberts would not enter into such articles as I wanted him to
                            sign, altho’ he has for several years (since he lived here) signed much the same; he says he is convinced from what is
                            past, he never shall quit drinking, notwithstanding his endeavours to do it; and the restrictions he is laid under in
                            these articles are such that it is not in his nature to keep them; & he has no Right (he acknowledges) to be endulged
                            any longer in the manner he has been; therefore he will rent a Mill, & work for himself; being determined never to hire
                            himself again.
                        I wrote the enclosed to go by this post to Colo. Biddle, who has frequently desired me, if I had anything in
                            which he could do for you, or myself, that I would freely command him. But I have thought, that you probably might have
                            some other acquaintance on whom you might choose to rely for the transaction of such a piece of business, in preference to
                            him, therefore I send the letter under cover to you, that you may act as you shall think best in the matter."
                        As I think you are much better judges of the qualifications necessary to constitute a good Miller, & have
                            it more in your power to procure one, than Colo. Biddle, I send the Letter which Mr Washington had written to him, to you,
                            and pray your assistance in this business.
                        The time being short, no delay can be admitted; I submit to you therefore, the propriety of advertising for a
                            man, which will answer my purposes— the wages I will leave entirely to yourself; or, in other words, I would give that highest that are given, for such a Mill as mine is described to be; or I would even
                            give more, to get a good & skillful man
                            who understands, and will do his duty, without giving me any plague or trouble. There is no Miller in America I would
                            exchange Roberts for, if he could be broke of his abominable drunken & quarrelsome frolicks—the opinion I entertain of
                            his skill, and an unwillingness to part with him, have been the inducements to my keeping him fourteen years, when I ought
                            not to have borne with him for the last seven of them.
                        Having now committed this business absolutely to your management, I shall confide in your endeavours to serve
                            me, unless you forbid me to do so— and as letters sometimes indeed too often, miscarry, I shall thank you for a single
                            line, informing me that this is got safe to your hands—I will make no apology for this trouble, but I will give you
                            strong assurances of my disposition to make any return in the power of Gentn Your most obt hble Servt

                            G: Washington

                            P.S. Any expence which may be incurr’d in this business, I will chearfully pay.


Title: From George Washington to Marinus Willett, 16 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Willett, Marinus

                            Sir
                            Rocky hill 16. Oct. 1783

                        The last post brought me your Letter of the 3d of this Month.
                        Whether the whole, or what part of the five Companies of State Troops, are to be retained in service during
                            the Winter, being a matter wholly dependant on the determination of Congress in their arrangemts for Peace—it is impossible
                            to give any directions Respecting them.
                        I would wish you to inform me immediatly what steps have been taken in consequence of the Orders I gave when
                            I last saw you—by the time I receive this information, ’tis probable that Congress will have come to some determination
                            which will enable me to give the necessary directions on the Subject.


Title: To George Washington from George Martin, 17 October 1783
From: Martin, George
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Dublin Octr 17th 1783

                        It is with singular satisfaction that I have the honour to inform You I recd your very polite and elegant
                            Letter of the 10th Augst in answer to Mine of the first March last, which naturally leads me to embrace this favorable
                            Opportunity of gratifying my feelings, by returning you my sincerest acknowledgements for the high Honour you have
                            confirm’d upon me in approving any feeble attempt I cou’d make to promote that felicity our Country may now happily enjoy
                            from the complete Atchievement of Civil and Religious Liberty, principally obtain’d (under Providence) by the amazing
                            perseverance, unshaken Fortitude, and comprehensive capacity of your enlarg’d and truly Patriotic Mind, which have so
                            distinguis’dedly, and disinterestedly engagd you in, the most arduous Scenes of, complicited difficulties, variously
                            combin’d to frustrate the glorious struggles of a virtuous, valiant and wise People. May the Almighty pour down his
                            choicest Blessings on the invincible Supporters of so righteous a Cause! And May that Wisdom, toleration, and Benevolence
                            of Spirit, which has so strongly mark’d and directed the measures of their admired General, influence the national
                            Councils in all their proceedings, in such a manner, that latest Generations may in Security & Ease, look back to
                            the great Founders of their happiness with veneration & incessant Praise. fondly do I hope, that the articles of
                                Confedaration finally ratified on the 1st March 1781 in Philedelphia, will be religiously
                            observed, and adhered to, being framd with the truest Wisdom, and Soundest Policy, and which cannot fail to hand down to
                            Posterity all the Benefits of so glorious a Conquest—Your Resolution of retirement at the final execution of the
                            Definitive Treaty, is consonant with that wise Conduct, that has so happily distinguis’d your Life, and which will enable
                            you to review with infinite delight in peaceful tranquillity, those happy consequences deriv’d to your Country by the
                            unexampled Dedication of all your powers to her Interest—In that Pleasing Solitude permit me to suggest
                            a hint, that a Second Cemmenting may be compos’d; similar Materials are in
                            your possession, and the Public will recieve with the greatest Avidity so valuable a donation, But go where you will, and
                            do what you will, you can only be Mius et idem, for your Country will ever command your Political Abilities altho
                            you have turn’d Your Sword into a Plougshare.
                        The Poverty you speak of can be but momentary, for America has numberless Resources
                            at hand, which Union and Oeconomy can speedily produce, and if her Confidential Servants are properly
                            protected in their Persons, and supported adequately to Circumstances and Exigencies, She can fear nothing externally;
                            internally nothing is wanting, but Harmony and Concord—vis unita fortior.
                        Shou’d it ever be my Lott to be employ’d in her Service I will receive her Commands with
                            gratitude, execute them with Zeal and Integrity, as far as Capacity will permit, and with deferance and alacrity, return to
                            her Bosom if needful, to await her just and supreme Decision respecting Official Duty.
                        Under the Influence of those Principles I wou’d willingly flatter myself, that your kind
                            assistance will not be wanting, joind to that of other Friends who have interested themselves in my favour in promoting
                                me to the Honor in the close of Life, of being distinguished by the Confidence
                            of my Country.
                        At the same time that I make this request, give me leave to go one step further, and
                            introduce the Bearer Mr George Martin, My Nephew, a Young English Barrister, to your Acquaintance Countenance &
                            Protection, who is the Heir & representative of our Family. His merits I hope will be the most effectual Advocate
                            in his favour, and his Parents & Relations entertain fond Expectations, that he will acquit himself thro’ Life to
                            the Satisfaction of all virtuous and valuable Men, and I in particular, indulge myself in hoping, that He will never
                            diminish that Lustre which Your Countenance must confer on him—The Objects of his present pursuit & future
                            Operations, I must beg leave to refer to his own Information, but as my love and Esteem for him are great in extent, and
                            high in Degree, I cou’d not evince their magnitude more, than by commanding him to your Countenance and Protection, for
                            undoubtedly I venerate your Character as peculiary eminent among the illustrious Ornaments of Human Nature. I have the
                            Honor to be Sir Your most Obedient and devoted Hb. Servt

                            Geo: Martin


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 18 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

                            Dr Sir,
                            Rocky Hill 18th Oct. 1783

                        I am favored with your two Letters of the 30 September.
                        The Debate on Indian affairs which I believe is got through, and that on the Residence of Congress which is
                            yet in agitation has entirely thrown aside for some time the consideration of the Peace Establishment—when it is Resumed I
                            will take care that your application comes into View and shall be happy if any thing in my power may contribute to its
                            succes. I am &c.

                            G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 18 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

                            Sir
                            Rocky Hill 18th Octr 1783

                        I had the honor to recieve your Excellys Letter of the 7th Octr which was handed to me by the Count
                            Wengerski—I was in hopes this Gentleman would have passed two or three days with us but his hurry to visit the North Ward
                            induced him to leave us immediately.
                        It always gives me great pleasure to have an oppertunity of assuring you of the sincere regard and attachment
                            with which I have the honor to be Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt & Most Hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste-Joseph, comte de Laumoy, 18 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Laumoy, Jean-Baptiste-Joseph, comte de

                            Sir,
                            Rocky hill 18 Oct. 83

                        I have recid your Letter of the 14 of this month and now inclose you the Certificate you request—With my best wishes I am Sir Yours &c.

                            G: Washington

                            Certificate
                            Brigadier General LaumoyEntered the Service of the United States in October 1777 with the rank of Lieut.
                                Colonel of Engineers, in November following he was promoted to the rank of Colonel in the same Corps and in
                                September last had the Brevet Commission of Brigr Genl in the Armies of the United States.
                            During the period above mentioned General Laumoy was employed on many important services—particularly at
                                the Seiges of Savannah & Charles Town—where he acted as Chief Engineer—and in these as well as in every
                                other instance throughout the course of his Services he has shewn great knowledge of his profession and has
                                acquitted himself with that  Zeal—activity & bravery which entitle him to the character of a Good officer
                                & able Engineer. Given &c.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 18 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                            Dr Sir
                            Rocky hill 18 Octr 1783

                        Being perfectly of the same sentiment with you respecting the Invalids now at Philadelphia I have given
                            directions to Baron Steuben to have them Inspected immediately in order that no time may be lost in carrying into
                            execution the measures you Recommend I am &c.


Title: From Lewis Nicola to Jonathan Trumbull, Jr., 18 October 1783
From: Nicola, Lewis
To: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.

                            Sr
                            Philada 18 October 1783

                        The Officers of the Invalid regt Stationed here being informed of the inspection held on those at the Point,
                            request of his Excellency the same indulgence, by the inclosed Memorial, which, with my respects, I beg you will hand to
                            him & you’ll oblige Sr Your most obedt Servt

                            Lewis Nicola Col. Inv.


Title: To George Washington from John David Woelpper, 18 October 1783
From: Woelpper, John David
To: Washington, George

                             18 October 1783

                        To His Excellency George Washington Esquire Commander in Chief of the Forces of the United States of
                            America. The Memorial of Sundry Officers of the Invalids Regiment Humbly Sheweth,
                        That we the Subscribers Officers in said Corps stationed at Philadelphia being disabled & infirm by
                            reason of wounds & otherwise, Request that your Excellency will please to instruct the Commanding Officer at this
                            post to Order an Inspection of a Board of Officers & Surgeons for the purpose of reporting our different
                            situations through you to the Honble the United States in Congress, that we may thereby be on a footing with our brother
                            Officers of the Corps who were lately with the main Army under your immediate Commands. Which is humbly submited to your
                            Excellencys consideration by your most Obedient & very humble Servants

                            D. Woelpper  Captain
                            Mathew McConnell Captain
                            Wm Williams Captain
                            W. Honeyman Lt
                            James McLean Lt


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 20 October 1783
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philada October 20th 1783

                        This letter will be delivered to you by Arthur Noble Esqr. a Gentleman Strongly recommended to me by Doctor
                            Franklin as deserving of the utmost attention & respect permit me therefore to introduce him to Your Notice
                            & Civilities, you will be pleased with his conversation & manners He intends bringing from Ireland a
                            Number of Families to Settle in the United States and I immagine you can give him good advice as to the best place for
                            such settlement. I am Dr Sir Your Obedient Servt

                            Robt Morris


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Parker, 20 October 1783
From: Parker, Daniel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            New York Octr 20th 1783

                        This Day I have dine’d with Sir Guy Carleton, and he has repeated to me his Intentions of leaving this City in
                            all next month. the Transports that are Necessary for this Purpose will (he Supposes) be here before the 10th proxo, and
                            as every Preparation is made that can be, previous to the Arrival of the Ships, but little Time will be Necessary to
                            Embark the Troops. from his Conversation I have no doubt. but they will be all on Ship board by the 25th Novemr—from
                            Several Circumstances, I have some reason to Suppose that Sir Guy Expects Information by the next Packet of his being
                            appointed Embassader from Great Britain to the United States, and that Mr Morgan will return as Secretary to the Embassy.
                        Some of the Principal Characters here, who Intend leaving the place, are very Tardy in their Preparations,
                            which in the Course of Conversation I Observ’d to Sir Guy. who Answer’d that he had given them Ample Time for that Purpose;
                            and, no delay could take place on that Account.
                        Mr Francis has not yet been able to procure a Cook, the Man that had promised him; and of whom I spake to
                            your Excellency is not permitted to leave the Officer, with whom he was engaged, neither does he discover that Inclination
                            at present, that he did; when he was first Applied to—Mr Francis promises to use every means to procure
                            a proper Person—but it is uncertain when it will be in his Power—Colo. Cobb has been informed by Mr
                            Francis of the Difficulty in Procur’g one.
                        Enclosed your Excellency will find Mr Searle Receipt for £72 Sterlg—by the next Opportunity I shall forward
                            the accounts. I have the honor to be, with the most perfect Respect your Excellencys Faithful & Obt Servt

                            Danl Parker

                     Enclosure

                                New York 18th October 1783

                            Received of Daniel Parker Esqr. the Sum of Seventy Two Pounds Sterling, being the Amount of Two Pipes of
                                Wine shiped for His Excellency General Washington by Messrs John Searle & Co. of Madeira.

                                John Searle Junr

                                £72 Str.


Title: To George Washington from Lucretia Wilhelmina van Mercken Van Winter, 20 October 1783
From: Van Winter, Lucretia Wilhelmina van Mercken
To: Washington, George

                        His Excellency, General Washington. Commander in chief of their high Mightinesses, the thirteen United States
                            of North America.
                            Leyden 20 October 1783.

                        Illustrious Defender of the rights of thy Country! Thou, who wert the support of the thirteen long, long
                            oppressed States! Whose generous spirit subdued the progress of fell tyranny, and confirmed in her seat, Liberty!
                            Illustrious Washington! the Universe, through all its wide domain, resounds with the fame of thy Virtues: the world beholds revived in you all the Worthies of Grace, and the noble family of the Curii. Like them, quitting your grounds, & the employments of Husbandry, you flew to the succour of
                            your fellow citizens, who were near becoming a prey to the hard law of unjust Masters, enriched with their merciless
                            spoil. But for you and your generous exertions, the fertile fields would now, even now, be no more, than one hideous,
                            frightful waste, while the inhabitants of the Cities, would have been sunk under the weight of numerous imposts; &
                            the honest hard working Peasant, loaded with the weight of galling irons. The haughty spirit of
                            Despotism wished to make them believe, that the object of her laws, was the happiness of the Human race. But they will
                            remain to the latest Posterity, lasting monuments of her atrocious designs. Witness the walls filled with flames &
                            carnage, witness the desolate fields, still reeking with slaughter, the melancholly objects of her savage rage, at wc.
                            Humanity revolts. Oh! let us cast a veil over these sad scenes, the sources of so many widowed, so many
                            orphan tears: cruel despotism is banished forever: and Liberty with smiling peace is again restored, to make the day as
                            happy as tis long. ’Tis to your valour, Magnanimous Heroe! to you, she owes her existence—without you, & your
                            virtuous struggles, aided by the Warriors of France, She would already have expired in those Climates.
                        America saved from her distress, acknowledges your services, exalts your valor, & celebrates
                            everywhere, in her songs of joy, the name of her noble Defender; whose great mind unseduced by the brilliant allurements
                            of Grandeur, feels itself content with being the object of the Love,
                            & Esteem, of a people, rescued from the multiplied distress of Slavery, by your arm.
                        This virtuous Mortal, modest after his victories, offers up all his laurels to the Author of his glory,
                            & prostrates himself before him; owning himself indebted for his support, to him only.
                        Great Citizen! whom the Universe admires! Let purple & gold continue to be the gaudy ornaments of
                            ambition—Let virtue suffice for you, it is right, it ought—it is the fittest ornament for Washington.
                        They who are shamefully seduced, may sing the praises of an Alexander or a Caesar the ravagers of the world;
                            but modest virtue, the worthy attribute of Angels, will ever deserve the first altars.
                        You too, amiable companion! united to his destiny, who following the example of your illustrious consort
                            while he lavishes his blood for his country, support it by your Munificence! Every way worthy of his fondness, recieve
                            thou too! with him, the expressions of Love, that a grateful people owe you. The favors recieved by your Country, from
                            you, have secured her rights, and discover your virtues—America pleased, has also her Porcia, the Companion of her beloved
                            Brutus. O! happy pair! greater far in your humble retreat, than the proud Conqueror on his usurped throne! Enjoy for ever
                            a mind well satisfyed with its well earned renown.
                        May virtue, glory, and peacfull repose accompany you in your retirement to the Country. There, taste the
                            sweets that are unknown to Kings: whilst America, eternising your glory, consecrates in letters of gold, in the sacred
                            deposits of History, that, She was saved by Washington—May your Statue established by Council,
                            be honored by Congress, with these honourable words—Lo! Washington! the Father of his Country, the Protector of Liberty.

                            Lucretia Wilhelmina Van Winter.
                            Neé, Van Merken


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 21 October 1783
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Philadelphia 21st Octr 1783

                        Having been reduced to a situation very disagreeable to me indeed by having an action brought against me for
                            a debt which ought long since to have been paid by the publick, & which was only suspended being carried into
                            Court by my pledging my honour to settle it before I went out of Town, I have been and am unable to leave this place or I
                            had long since paid my Respects your Excellency. I however momentarily Expect to be relieved by a sum of money I have a prospect of ?, but it is
                            with anxiety & concern I find my self compell’d to divest my self of my private resources for Debts not my own,
                            & With thousands due to me from my  to be almost in a state of absolute want. I
                                compassionate however rather than Blame the Publick I should not trouble your Excellency with my
                            perplexities.Who I know in the common cause have so many of your own, but to Explain to you why I am here, to whom my
                            inclination would lead me were duty out of the Question to Account for my Actions. This will be delivered you Sir by Major
                            Haskill who will give you particulars relative Either to
                                illegible or send on to me I am Dear Sir with Respect & affection your
                            Excellency’s most Obt hum. servt

                            Robt Howe


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 22 October 1783
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            West point 22d October 1783

                        I have the honor to enclose the weekly returns, and a slate of the periods at which the enlistments of the
                            Rhode Island Companies will expire. If those Companies should be necessary at their present station, they must be replaced
                            either in the winter or very early in the Spring. I have the honor to be with the highest respect your Excellencys most
                            obedient servt

                            H. Knox


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 23 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                            Dr Sir,
                            Rocky hill 23 Oct. 83

                        I was extremely glad to hear by a Letter from Colonel Varick that tho’ not yet restored to your usual State
                            of health you was recovering it daily.
                        From many circumstances I think it now pretty evident that the British will leave New York in all next Month
                            Sir Guy Carleton has informed me verbally, through Mr Parker, that he expects to evacuate the City by the 20th and that
                            when the Transports which were gone to Nova Scotia returned he should be able to fix the day of his departure. in
                            consequence of this Intelligence and fearfull least I should not have timely notice I have this day written to General
                            Knox—desiring him to confer with your Excellency and make every necessary Arrangement for taking possession of the City
                            the moment the British quit it—an Extract of this Letter I do my self the honor to inclose—with great esteem &
                            respect I have the honor to be.
                        P.S. I was just on the point of closing this when I reced your Excellencys Letter of the 14 Instant and I am sorry
                            to learn from it that you are still in such a low State of health.
                        The propriety of putting the Troops who may move towards the City under your Excellencys direction strikes me
                            very forcibly and I have mentioned it in a Post script to Genl Knoxs Letter—it will accordingly form part of the
                            arrangement between you.I shall with pleasure comply with your wishes in sending you by express the first
                            notice I get of the day intended for the evacuation.G.Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 23 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                            Dear Sir
                            Rocky hill 23 Octr 1783

                        The arrival of the Definitive Treaty, and the evacuation of New York have been so long delayed as to
                            interfere very materially with our arrangements for the Celebration of Peace; at this Season no use can be made of the
                            Bower, the only possible means of accomodation, besides, the dissolution of the Army at so short a period totally defeats
                            the object in view, for if we were even determined not to wait the events on which the Celebration has hitherto depended,
                            it would now be impossible either to make the necessary preparations or to give timely notice to the Officers, before the
                            Army would be dissolved: I think therefore that it will be best to defer it until the British leave the City, and then to
                            have it at that place where all who chuse to attend can find accomodation.
                        Sir Guy Carleton some time since informed me, thro’ Mr Parker, that he should leave New York in all next
                            Month, probably by the 20th, and that when the Transports which were gone to Nova Scotia returned, he should be able to fix
                            the day; this notice may be short, and as it is best to be prepared, I wish you to confer upon the subject with Governor
                            Clinton, and have every necessary Arrangement made for taking possession of the City immediately on their leaving it; you
                            will please to report to me the arrangements you may agree on.
                        Inclosed I transmit you Copy of a Proclamation of Congress for the dissolution of the Army, you will please
                            to publish it to the Troops under your Orders.
                        I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter of the 15th of this Month, If the Men whose terms of
                            service expire in December and January, are not sufficient for the purpose of procuring Wood for the Garrison, I have no
                            objection to your including those whose inlistments expire in February, this may be done now with greater propriety than
                            heretofore as the British Force at New York has been very considerable reduced within this Fortnight.
                        In permitting the Officers to retire nothing more need be attended to, than to keep a sufficient number for
                            the Troops who remain in service. It is now three Weeks since I directed the Clothier General to make the necessary
                            provision of Cloathing for the Winter, I am not yet informed how far he has proceeded in compliance with these directions,
                            but I will do all in my power to have you supplied. By a return made this month I observe there is a quantity of Cloathing
                            in Store at Newburg; this will go far in supplying the immediate wants of the Troops; observing in the distribution of it
                            to favor those Men who having longest to serve are most intitled to it—There is some refuse Cloathing returned which
                            might relieve the Wants of those who are to be discharged. With very great regard I am Dear Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. Since I wrote the foregoing I have reced a Letter from Governor Clinton in which he mentions his
                                wish that the Troops who move down may be put under his direction which I think very proper so long as they remain in
                                or near the City .Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Richard Varick, 23 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Varick, Richard

                            Dr Sir
                             23d Octr 1783

                        Inclosed are private Letters since I wrote you last. Yrs very sincerely

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to George Weedon, 24 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Weedon, George

                            Sir
                            Rocky hill 24th Octr 1783

                        At the original institution of the Society of the Cincinnati, Majr General Heath, who then presided, was
                            desired to transmit a Copy of the Institution, with the proceedings thereon, to the senior Officer in each of the Southern
                            States, to request them to communicate the same to the Officers under their command, and take such measures as might
                            appear necessary for expediting the establishment of the society in their respective States.
                        To the Letter sent on this occasion to the Senior Officer in your State no answer has been received.
                        At a subsequent meeting of the Society, it was deemed expedient to appoint a President General pro-tem; and
                            the honor of the choice falling on me, it becomes a part of my duty to name the place for the general meeting in May next,
                            and in order to make it as Central as possible, for the general convenience, it is necessary I should know in which of the
                            States the Society is establish’d.
                        I must therefore request, that you would be pleased to inform me, as soon as possible, whether the
                            establishment has taken place in your State, and what measures have been taken to effect it. I am Sir Your Most Obedient
                            humble Servant

                            G: Washington

                                Sent also to senior officers of the Society of the Cincinnati in Md., N.C., S.C. and Ga.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Humpton, 24 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Humpton, Richard

                            Sir
                            Rocky hill 24th Octr 1783

                        The Honorable the Congress having by their Proclamation of the 18th Inst. thought proper to discharge their
                            Army I am to desire that immediately on the receipt of this you proceed to discharge the Troops under your Command at
                            Philada.
                        You will please to call at the War Office for Blank discharges—and Report to me your proceedings in this
                            business. I am Sir Your most Obedient Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lewis Nicola, 24 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Nicola, Lewis

                            Sir,
                            Rocky hill 24 Octo. 1783

                        You will be pleased to inform the Officers of your Corps whose Memorial you lately transmitted to me, that
                            previous to the Receipt of your Letter I had given directions to Maj. Genl Baron Steuben to make the Inspection they
                            Request—I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Bezaleel Howe, 25 October 1783
From: Howe, Bezaleel
To: Washington, George

                            Head Qrs 25th Octr 1783

                        Receiv’d of Willm Slone Waggoner Six Boxes of Clarit Wine one Jar—and one Small key for the Use of the
                            Commander in Chief.

                            Bezl Howe Capt.
                            Comdt His Excellencys Guard.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 26 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                            Sir
                             26 Octr 83

                        This will be delivered you by Mr Arthur Noble a Gentleman from Ireland who visits this Country in behalf of a
                            considerable number of his Countrymen to provide a settlement for them.
                        He is Recommended to me by the President of Congress & by Mr Morris and as he is going to the
                            Northward and wishes to take west point in his way—I take the liberty to Request your attention and liberties to him
                            during his stay there.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Cogswell, 27 October 1783
From: Cogswell, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Newburgh October 27th 1783

                        In a few days I expect to retire to the State of Massachusetts for to enjoy a Domestic life.
                        I have always considered myself injured in point of Rank particular in the promotion of Captain Sherman from Connecticut in 1776 to the Rank of Majr in the Line of
                            Massts and  Regt that I belonged to and had Commanded him part of two Campaigns and the promotion
                            of Majr Hull from the State of Connecticut to the Rank of Lt Colo. in the Line of Masstt when in 1775 I was a Capt. and he
                            a Lieut.
                        as there has been much said on the Subject I shall only troble you with a Copy of a Letter of mine to Genll
                            Glover marked N. 1 and his Answer N. 2 to shew that my Retireing from the Line of the Army at the Close of the year 1780
                            was through Necessity and at my Request and a Copy of another paper N. 3 presented to me by Several Gentleman who knew my
                            Services and agreed in sentiment that I had been injured N. 4 will shew that I was Mustered and took Command as Lt
                            Colo.—Under these Circumstances I think myself justly entitled to the Rank and Commission of a Lt Colo. to bare Date
                            September 6th 1779 agreeable to the Vacancy I was So to Expect and appointed I by the Government of Massachusett — it is now in the power of Congress to  illegible the Commission and no injury to any one
                        (it will have a tendancy to illegible the  illegible & Request you to take it under your protection and adopt such mode to Compleat it agreeable to my wish as you shall think proper .

                            I am sir with sentiments of Esteem and Regard your Hume Servt
                        Thos Cogswell

                            P.S. I marched at the head of one Hundred Volunteers on the 17th of Aprill
                                    1775
                                for Lexington have been in Service of the United States ever since.


Title: To George Washington from Lewis Garanger, 28 October 1783
From: Garanger, Lewis
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            New Jail of Philadelphia 28 october 1783.

                        I have the honor to request Your Excellency’s Protection in the Crisis where I am now, and in which I have
                            been brought by the reiterated losses I have suffered from the Ennemy, and by being Induced by some very strong reasons,
                            to lengthen my stay in this Continent.
                        I am Conscious that you find a great satisfaction in favoring with your recommendation the officers who have
                            proved themselves worthy of your Esteem, and your Excellency has been so Kind as to honor me with a Glorious testimony of
                            his satisfaction of my zeal and services.
                        I think myself as much Entittled to obtain the Assistance which I claim of the honorable Congress, as during
                            seven years I have been always, and am now very sollictous of finding some means of becoming servicable to the United
                            States.
                        I hoped to Give some new proofs of it to Your Excellency, by submitting to your Examination different
                            projects of Establishments that I have formed, and should wish to be Impowered to Execute: my confinement has deprived me
                            of that advantage; I hope I shall find afterwards, some opportunities of improving these projects by your Excellent
                            advices. I have the honor to be with the Greatest respect and attachment Your Excellency’s most obedient and humble
                            servant

                            Lewis Garanger


Title: From George Washington to Conrad Alexandre Gérard de Rayneval, 29 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Rayneval, Conrad Alexandre Gérard de

                            Sir,
                            Rocky hill in New Jersey 29th October 1783

                        The Officers of the American Army, to perpetuate those friendships which have been formed during a time of
                            common danger and distress, and for other purposes mentioned in the Institution, did before their seperation associate
                            themselves into a society of Friends under the name of the Cincinnati; and having done me the honor to elect me their
                            President General, it becomes a pleasing part of my duty to acquaint you, that the society have done themselves the honor
                            to enroll your name among their Members.
                        Major L’Enfant, who will have the honor to deliver you this Letter, is charged by the Society with the
                            execution of their Order in France, and has directions to furnish you with one of the first that are compleated, and so
                            soon as the Diploma can be made out, I shall do myself the honor to transmit it to you. With the greatest consideration,
                            respect and esteem—I have the honor to be Sir Your most Obedient and most humble Servant

                            Go: Washington

                                Sent also to Comte de Grasse, Comte d’Estaign, Comte de Barras, Chevalier Destouches and Comte de
                                    Rochambeau.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 29 October 1783
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            West-point 29th October 1783

                        I had the honor to receive your Excellency’s favor of the 16th instant.
                        We shall endeavor to put the troops into their Winter quarters as soon as possible—The 4th Massachusetts
                            regiment has already gone to occupy the huts built by Colonel Swift’s regiment which are in pretty good repair—The New
                            Hampshire Corps will go to morrow to Constitution Island—The remainder of the Connecticut regiment will be stationed in
                            some of the redoubts, and the 1st, 2d & 3d Massachusetts will be in barracks in the garrison except some
                            detachments at the outposts—I suppose the same reasons which induced sending the light Companies to West Chester, will
                            operate to keep them there during the Winter if the British should continue in New York.
                        The Wood party which I have mentioned to your Excellency have almost compleated the task assigned them, which
                            was two cords per man, and most of them have received their discharges—We shall be able to ascertain their precise numbers
                            before next post.
                        Sheldon’s Legion were furloughed by your Excellency to the first of August, and afterward I lengthened them
                            to the first of November—As they will not be wanted until spring if ever, perhaps it will be best to renew their furloughs
                            until the first of April next provided no general measures could be immediately taken with them.
                        The late resolve of Congress respecting a part of the engineers, have induced an anxiety in the rest to go to
                            France—Lt Colonel Villefranche & Major Rochefontaine are so urgent to go to Princetown to obtain your Excellency’s
                            permission, that I cannot refuse them especially as they represent that a detention would essentially injure them.
                        The demonstrations of the enemy to evacuate the city seem to be clearer than they were—but I know not wether
                            they are so unequivocal to decide with certainty that they will go next month as they say they shall—If this should be the
                            case, I suppose a reduction would be certain—I will thank your Excellency for the earliest information upon the subject of
                            Clothing.
                        If the enemy should go from New York in the course of next month, or if the service would admit of it—I
                            should be happy to receive your Excellency’s permission to go to Boston in the beginning of January—I mention it thus
                            early, as I understand Congress will soon move to Annapolis, in which case it is probable that your Excellency will also go
                            southward.
                        Brigadier General Greaton being totally unfit for duty by reason of sickness I have permitted him to go home,
                            General Huntington having no command has received like permission. And as most of the Connecticut officers will be in the
                            same predicament they will also receive furloughs upon the same principles as those who retired last June. I have the honor
                            to be with great respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedient servant

                            H. Knox

                    Enclosed are the Monthly returns


Title: From David Cobb to Henry Knox, 30 October 1783
From: Cobb, David
To: Knox, Henry

                            Sir
                            Rocky Hill Octr 30th 1783

                        I am directed by the Commander in Chief to inclose you his Farewell Orders, which he desires you to publish
                            on the 2d day of next month; As the General will take measures for publishing them in the Philadelphia Papers, perhaps it
                            will be better, that they come to the Public thro’ that Channel only, as thereby all incorrect Copies will be prevented
                            from appearing. I am Sir with greatest esteem Your Most Obedt Servant

                            David Cobb


Title: To George Washington from William Jackson, 30 October 1783
From: Jackson, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Prince Town October 30th 1783

                        I beg leave to inform your Excellency that I purpose embarking for Europe on board the Packet, which will
                            sail in the beginning of next week. Should my presence in France or England capacitate a service for your Excellency, I
                            shall hope the honor of being charged with your commands.
                        My best attention to whatever you may be pleased to request will mark, I hope, in some degree, the warm
                            attachment and profound respect with which I am, Dear General, Your Affectionate and devoted Servant

                            W. Jackson


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 30 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                            Sir
                            Rocky hill 20 Octr 83

                        I do myself the honor to transmit you herewith a Copy of the Institution of the Cincinnati a Society formed
                            by the American Officers before they Seperated and retired to private life.
                        the principles of the society the purposes for which it was formed and the qualifications necessary to become
                            Members will fully appear by the Institution—Should any of the Foreign Officers who are qualified by serving three years
                            in our Army wish to become Members—I must take the liberty to request you to let them Sign the Institution and pay the
                            necessary Sum into your hands.
                        Major L’Enfant who will have the honor to deliver you this—has undertaken to get the Order of the society
                            executed in France. he has directions to deliver you one of the first that are compleated, and you will please also to call
                            on him for as many more as you may want. Maj. L’Enfant will inform you the price of them—the diplomas shall be forwarded
                            as soon as they can be made out. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 30 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                            My Dr Marqs
                            Princeton 30th Octor 1783

                        As I persuade myself it would rather give you pain than pleasure, were I to apologize for any liberty I might
                            take with you, which does not exceed the rules of propriety & friendship—I shall proceed without further
                            hesitation or ceremony to beg the favour of you to send me of the plated wares (or what formerly used to be called French
                            plate) the articles contained in the enclosed memorandm to which, as I am not much of a connoisseur in, & trouble
                            my head very little about these matters, you may add any thing else of the like kind which may be thought useful &
                            ornamental, except Dishes, plates & Spoons—of the two first I am not inclined to possess any, & of the
                            latter I have a sufficiency of every kind.
                        I shall esteem it a very particular favor if you would let me have these things as soon as possible, by the
                            first Vessel which may sail after they are ready either to Alexandria, Baltimore, Philadelphia or New York—the last, on
                            account of the packets which are to sail twice in every month, might be the readiest conveyance to this Country, tho’ it
                            would not be so convenient for me afterwards. Nevertheless, (as I am desirous of getting the Plate, as soon as may be) I
                            would rather have them sent to that place than wait for a conveyance to either of the others.
                        If you shou’d send these things to New York, be so good as to address them to Jacob Morris Esqr. (who now
                            lives there) with a request that they may be forwarded to me by the stage, or any other ready and quick conveyance to
                            Alexandria—or if this cannot be, then to hand them on to Colo. Biddle at Phila. who will, I am persuaded convey them from
                            thence to me; as he would also do, if they should be sent to that place in the first instance directed to his care, by a
                            Vessel bound to that Port. If they should be sent to Baltimore be pleased to direct them to the care of Colo. Tilghman, if
                            there, or Saml Purviance Esqr., if he is not.
                        I have not My Dr Marqs sent by this conveyance, money for the purchase of these articles: the reason is, I am
                            altogether unacquainted with the prices of them; but a bill shall be remitted to you the moment I am informed of the cost;
                            in the mean while I am sure you will have no hesitation in becoming responsible to the workman for the payment.
                        Altho’ I promise not to apologise for giving you trouble in these matters, yet I cannot forbear assigning my
                            reasons for doing it in this particular instance.
                        1st then, because I do not incline to send to England (from whence formerly I had all my Goods) for any thing
                            I can get upon tolerable terms elsewhere.
                        2d Because I have no correspondence with an Merchants or artisans in France.
                        3d If I had, I might not be able to explain so well to them, as to you, my wants, who know our customs, taste
                            & manner of living in America. and, 4th Because I should rely much more upon your judgment and endeavours to prevent
                            impositions upon me, both in the price & workmanship, than on those of a stranger.
                        I have only to wish, in the last place, that they may be packed in a proper (permanent) case, that will bear
                            transportation in the first instance, & will be a proper repository afterwards when not in use, if it shou’d be
                            found more convenient to keep them there. With best respects to Madame La Fayette, I am &ca &c.

                            G: W——n


Title: From George Washington to Pierre Charles L’Enfant, 30 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: L’Enfant, Pierre Charles

                            Sir,
                             30th Octor 1783.

                        Herewith you will receive 250 Dollars in Bank notes, with which you will please to procure for me Eight of
                            the Bald Eagles—one of which, if there shall appear (upon conversing with gentlemen, better acquainted in those matters
                            than I am) no impropriety in it, or any deviation from the intention of the order, may not only be finished in a masterly
                            manner; but ornamented in an elegant, tho’ not in a costly stile—If, on the contrary, it shall be thought best to have no
                            difference between any of them in the decorations, (for I do not mean to depart in the smallest degree from the form, of
                            the order)—then seven will be sufficient for me; as the ornamented one would only have been used on extraordinary occasions.
                        I have, in the Letter you are charged with, to the Marqs de la Fayette, requested him to send me, by the
                            earliest opportunity, a sett of silver plated ware, but as there is not only a possibility, but a probability that he may
                            have left Paris for this country, before you get there, or may be absent on some other occasion; I beg, in that case, that
                            you would open my letter to him, & comply with the contents of it, if you can do it conveniently—Wishing you a
                            pleasant passage, & a prosperous voyage I remain, Sir, with very great esteem Your most Obt Servt

                            G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Matthias Ogden, 30 October 1783
From: Ogden, Matthias
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Elizth Town 30th Octr 83

                        I have the honor to inform you that on the 3rd of Septr the definitive treaty of peace was signed at Paris,
                            which place I left the 10th following—Mr Franklin, Jay & Adams signed on the part of the United States—Your
                            Excellency will please to excuse my not being more particular—I this moment arrived, & am now called on for the
                            letter—please to except the enclosed Papers. I have the honor to be Your Excellencys very humble servt

                            M. Ogden


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Parker, 30 October 1783
From: Parker, Daniel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            New york Octr 30th 1783

                        I have the Pleasure to Inform your Excellency that Mr John Broome arrived in this City last Eve’g from
                            Newhaven in Connecticut which place he left the same Day. he has brought a Boston News paper of the 23rd
                            Inst. which Informs us the Robin hood had Arrived at Boston in Thirty-Six Days from London, and that the Letters &
                            Accounts by this Vessell say the Definitive Treaty was Positively Sign’d on the 3rd of September.
                        The Inclosed Paper of this Day, contains the Account given in the Boston Paper of that Date.
                        Major Upham acquainted me last Eve’g that Sir Guy Carleton Continues to mention the middle of the next Month,
                            for the evacuation of this City and that every Preparation is made to effect it at that Time, provided the Transports
                            arrive from Nova Scotia, that are Expected next week.
                        Yesterday Two large Transports, that was not expected, arrived from the West Indies—I have no doubt but a
                            sufficient number will be here to effect that Purpose by the Time Mention’d. I have the honor to be with the greatest
                            Respect, your Excellencys Faithfull & Obedt Servt

                            Danl Parker


Title: From George Washington to Countess of Tankerville, 30 October 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Countess of Tankerville

                        My Lady,
                            Princeton in the State of New Jersey Octr 30th 83

                        About ten days ago I had the honor to receive your Ladyships favor of the 21st of June from London.
                        It is painful to me to be under the necessity of declining the trust which the Earl of Tankerville &
                            your other Son the Honble Mr Bennett have invested me with—To discharge the duties of which, your Ladyships state of
                            matters & request, would be strong excitements, if My situation was not such as would render it an act of
                            injustice in me to undertake what I am sure I could not execute.
                        I am not yet returned to Virginia after an absence of almost nine years from My family & home—I have
                            every reason to believe that my private concerns there are in a very deranged State but this does not give me so much pain
                            as to know that those of others wch had been committed to my care, are suffering equally—To
                            recover all these from the disorder into which they have run will be attended with more difficulty & require a
                            much longer time than comports with that ease, & freedom from care, of which I stand very much in need.
                        Being altogether unacquainted with such a Gentleman as Colo. Robert I. Howe of Alexandria (the second person
                            named in the Power of Attorney) unless thereby is meant Major Genl Robert Howe, who neither is, or ever was of that place.
                            I have sent it to Edmd Randolph Esqr. the Attorney General.who, no doubt will advice you of his intention, &what
                            further ought to be done. I have the honor to be &c.

                            Go: Washington