Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 2 March 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                     My dear General
                     Philadelphia March the Second 1781

                  Your letters of the 25th and 26th are Both Come Yesterday to Hand, which shows that the Expresses Have Not Made Great dispatch.  I would Have done Myself the Honor of writing to Your Excellency, Had I not Every Minute waited for Intelligences from the South ward.
                  Your Excellency Remembers that our shortest Calculation on the Arrival of the troops at Head of Elk was for the 6th of March.  I am Happy to Inform You that they will Be there this day, or to morrow Early, And Notwistanding the depth of the Mud, and the Extreme Badness of the Roads, this March which I Can Call Rapid (as for Example they Came in two days from Morristown to prince town) Has Been performed with such An order and Alacrity that, Agreable to the Report, two Men only Have Been Left Behind, And Yet these two men Have Embarked at Trenton with Some Remains of Baggage.  At Every place where the setachement Have Halted they Have found Covering, and wood, &c. Ready for them And there Has Not Been the Least Complaint Made to Me from Any inhabitant.  Every third day they Have drawn their provisions.  The Cloathing Has Been also distributed, and Having Embarked Yesterday at Trenton they past the City about two o’clock By a wind which was Extremely favorable.
                  Congress Have Given to Our troops the Advance of one Month pay which will Be distributed at the Head of Elk in New Emission.
                  The Artillery Consisting of one 24 six 18 two Brass 12 one 8 inch Howitz, two 8 inch Mortars, in all twelve Heavy pieces, four 6 pounders and two Small Howitzes, with a sufficient proportion of Ammunition will Be at the Head of Elk this day and to morrow, So that By the 4th I Hope we Shall Be Ready to Sail.
                  A Quantity of Medicines and instruments, and fifteen Hundred pairs of Shoes will Be at the Head of Elk Before We Embark.
                  Vessels will Be in Readiness to Receive us with thirty days provisions on Board.  I am Also Assured that we’ll Have a Sufficient Quantity of Boats to Land the detachement, and two Heavy Scows will Be added for the Artillery.  The public and Some of the private Armed Vessels in the Bay Have Been ordered to Head of Elk.  two dispatch Boats are there and four more Have Been Asked for.  As a farther Security for our Subsistence, I Have Got the Minister’s permission to dispose of the french flour and Salt Meat along the Bay in a Case of Necessity.
                  On My Arrival at this place, I Heard that Mr de Tilly the french Commander Had Conferred with the Virginians, But Upon Seeing that Nothing Could Be done immediately He was Undetermined wether to Stay or Return to Rhode island.  Fearing that our letters Might Miscarry, and wishing to Hurry the preparations of the Militia, I Complied with the Earnest Sollicitations of the Minister of France to Send on Clel Gouvion, And directed Him to Go Either By land or water (as the State of the Bay would permit) on Board the french Squadron, and afterwards to Baron de Stubens’s Camp where He May Apprise these Gentlemen of our force, our intentions, and the time of our Arrival.
                  this Minuted Account I Give to Your Excellency to Show You that Nothing on our part Has Been wanting for the Succes of the Expedition.  our preparations Have in Every Article fulfilled and in the Most important one, time, Have Exceeded what Had Been Expected.
                  Your Letter was sent By Express to Gnl St Clair who Immediately Came to town.  But Nothing Having Been done for the settling of the Accounts, None of the promises Having Been Complied with, and the Men Being Much scattered, it Has (after Much Consideration) Been thought Impossible to Embark Any Number with us, And Gnl St Clair promises to Make Every Exertion for the Sending of two or three Hundred in a few days whom However I am Not to depend upon.
                  I am Myself Going to the Head of Elk, and Shall Arrive there this Evening.  It Has Not Been possible for me to Leave Sooner the City, as the three days I Have Remained Here Have Been fully Emploid in Making and forwarding preparations.
                  Before I Go I will wait on the Board of the Navy and propose the Sending of the frigats.  But the Trumbull Having not Her Complement of Men, and those of the Ariel Having Mutined at Sea I am affraid we will find difficulties.
                  the preparations Made at Newyork, the Return of the America, the Remasting of the Bedfort, the Impossibility Mons. destouches is Under to Give us Any farther Assistance, the Uncertainty of what Mons. de Tilly May Have determined Before He Had Received Your Letter, Such are, My dear General, the Many Reasons which from A pretty Certain Expedition Have Lately Made a Very precarious one.  Under these Circumstances, indeed, there Must alwais Be More or Less danger in Going down the Bay and Venturing upon the low Country about portmouth.
                  Being Unacquainted with the Answer You Have Received from Count de Rochambeau and Mons. destouche, I am not able to judge How far I may depend upon the Same Ship Being ordered again to Chesapeak in Case (Before the Reception of Your letter) She Had thought proper to Sail.  Her Coming was Not in Consequence of Your proposition, Her Going was Relative to the difficulties of an Expedition very different from ours, And I wish I Might know if (tho Mons. destouches Can’t give farther Assistance) this Assistance at Least May Be depended upon so as to Hope for the Return of the Ship Should Mons. de Tilly Have Left the Bay.
                  the Bottom of the Bedfort is Said to Be damaged.  The America Was Said to Have Been dismasted.  Suppose those Circumstances were true they would Be in our favor.
                  If a detachement was to go from Newyork to Portsmouth, Westpoint would Be less in danger.  If Cornwallis Continues Advancing, perhaps our Being in the Neighboorod of Arnold May Be of Service.
                  I will However Confine myself litterally to My Instructions, and If Clel Gouvion writes me with Certainty that Mons. de Tilly is gone, if I am not led to suppose He will Return, I will march Back to the detachement.  For the present I am Going on Because upon the increasing of the Enemy’s force at Gardner’s Bay, You Recommend dispatch to me.
                  I Hope, However, that I will Hear from Your Excellency Now that the Chain is Established.  Clel Pikering Says that in six days I may Receive your Answer at the Head of Elk.  the Hope of seeing the french ship again or some other Reason May detain me.  But Your Answer will determine My Motions, and I Can Receive it By the 8th which is about the time when it was thought we would Arrive at the Head of Elk.
                  My Expectations are not Great, and I think we Have But few chances for us.  I Shall make all possible dispatch, and listen particularly to the Voice of prudence.  However some Hazard must Be Ran, if we Undertake in this Circumstances.
                  Gnl du portail Having not left this place, I am led to Hope that if we don’t go I may Return in time for the journey to Rhode island.
                  I most instantly Beg, My dear General, You Will favor me With an immediate Answer.  With the Highest Respect and Most tender Affection I Have the Honor to be Your Most obedient Humble Servant

                     Lafayette

                     P.S. One of our transports from trenton Had Got a Ground But the troops on Board of Her will still Be in time at the Head of Elk.  Some New difficulties Have Been made for the Collecting of shoes, But I will try to Get over them.  From the Extraordinary Motions of Lord Cornwallis whom we Have not Heard off those Many days, and from the Movements in Newyork I am led to Hope that I will Hear from you Respecting my future Conduct, and that I may Be at Head quarters Before you think it prudent to leave New Windsor.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 2 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                     Sir
                     Colo. Morehouses March 2nd 1781

                  The third day after he left you, the Baron de Closen did me the pleasure of delivering me your Excellency’s letter of the 25th.  His diligence and zeal perfectly equalled your expectations.  The important and agreeable intelligence, the dispatches by him contained, determined me to lose no time in setting out, to enjoy the satisfaction which I have been so long promising myself.  I hope to arrive at Newport early on Tuesday, in time to have a conversation with your Excellency and the Chevalier des Touches, previous to the departure of his Fleet.
                  I had early given all the directions to the Commanding Officer in Virginia intimated in your letter; but I have sent fresh orders which will be conveyed to him by Colo. Gouvion.
                  On my way to this place, I met your dispatch of the 27th.  I congratulate you on the arrival of the Astree.  I hope it will satisfactorily enlighten our future projects.
                  The Baron Closens politeness makes him insist on taking the trouble to precede me to announce my coming to your Excellency.  With all the Sentiments of the sincerest Esteem and attachment I have the honor to be Yr Excellency’s most obt and hble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Arthur St. Clair, 2 March 1781
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia March 2d 1781

                  Your Excellencys Letters of the 3d and 13th of February came duly to hand, but I delayed answering them from an Expectation that you was absent from the Army, and because I had nothing explicit to inform you of with regard to the Recruiting, that Business not having come before the Assembly untill yesterday, although General Wayne, General Irvine and myself have constantly attended to press them upon it.  A Committee have reported a plan recommended by us, which is in general, to call forth the Number of Men required by assessing them upon the Classes of the Inhabitants under a very heavy Penalty, and at the same time to carry on the recruiting by voluntary  inlistment—It is yet uncertain whether the House will come into it, but it is a favourable Circumstance that it has met with the approbation of the Council.
                  It is certain that a great Many of the Soldiers obtained their Discharges in a most flagitious manner, but nothing better was to be expected from the alternative allowed them.  I am however of Opinion that no good Consequences would flow from the Attempt to punish them.  It was threatened by some Officers and has driven a great many out of the State—They are too numerous—and it would carry with it something like a Breach of Faith, which the Government does not like to incur; and though the Measure was certainly entered into hastily it appeared to the Gentlemen who transacted it to be necessary.
                  Your Excellency’s favour of the 22d came by Express to Potts Grove the night before last and I returned to this Place immediately to confer with the Marquis.  You may imagine my Chagrine at not being able to comply with so small a Request upon such an Occasion; but after mature consideration it was thought imprudent to attempt it, as none of the Men have yet been settled with, (nor till this Moment are the auditors appointed for that Purpose) nor any of the Promises that were made them at Trenton complied with, and a very few only of the furloughed Men returned: our Numbers at the different Places of Rendevouz does not exceed five hundred in the whole and those very discontented.  I shall again press the Assembly to an immediate Settlement of the Accounts, and order the men on furlough to join their Regiments that your Excellencys orders of the 26th which I have just received may be carried into Execution as soon as possible, but I fear few or none can be got ready in time to second the Marquis, as it is indispensable that they be cloathed and Accounts settled previous to their marching;  I have only to add that nothing on my Part shall be wanting to expedite it and am with the greatest Respect Sir Your most obedient and very humble Servant

                     Ar. St Clair


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 3 March 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Elk March the 3d 1781

                  Having Been Impowered By Congress, the Board of War and the Virginia delegates to oppen Any Letter directed to them, I also took the liberty of Reading that of Baron de Stubens to Your Excellency wherein I found Useful intelligences.
                  My presence had been necessary to forward every Article from philadelphia—as soon as it Could Be spared I came here with all possible Speed—But notwithstanding promises the vessels were not Ready.  My exertions shall be such that I hope we May be embarked Before we Hear of the Arrival of our friends.  Most Respectfully and Affectionately I Have the Honor to Be Your Excellencys Most obedient Humble Servant

                     Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from Jeremiah Olney, 4 March 1781
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Providence 4th March 1781

                  I had the Honor to Receive your Excellency’s favr of 21st Ulto & Shall punctually Execute your orders in Collecting & forwarding the Scater’d Recruits—Those that have from time to time Joyn’d the Rendezvous assigned, I have lost no time in preparing & sending forward in Several Detachments amounting to 132 the greater part of which must have arriv’d before this.  your Excellency is pleas’d to call for a Return of the Number of men that may be Shortly expected from this State.  I have no doubt of Collecting and Sending on as many as Fifty in the Course of this month, which is Nearly the whole that is at present Muster’d (Except a few Deserters) & is as large a Number as I Can with Safety promise your Excellency from this State in the time mention’d, as the Imbodying 1,200 Militia to do duty in this State for one month will very much Retard the Recruiting Service:  as to Cloathing the Recruits before they march, I have not been able to Do, Except in the articles of Shirts, Shoes, Stockings & Blanketts.  Tho’ the State have at present 380 coats—200 Vests & 200 pair Breeches Nearly Compleated which is all the Wollens that is procur’d,—&As the recruits which have March’d are Comfortably Clad, & the Season far advanc’d, his Excellency the Govr & some of the Counsell advise the Detention of the Woollens & Recommend having the Frocks & overalls made up Immediately & Sent on to the Troops (These may be had here of the Best Quality.)  I wish to know your Excellencys pleasure Respecting this matter & it Shall be punctually observ’d.  I have the Honor to be your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

                     Jereh Olney


Title: From George Washington to Ralph Pomeroy, 4 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Pomeroy, Ralph

                     Sir
                     Hartford 4th March 1781

                  From the representation made by you of this date I am clearly of opinion that it will be of the greatest public advantage to have as much of the salt provision of your State as possible brought immediately forward to the North River, without touching at the places of deposit pointed out by me, and I think further, that as it will tend to lessen the public expence very considerably in the end, you will be fully justified in appointing the necessary number of persons to go thro’ the several town ships and engage the Inhabitants to bring forward the provision in the manner you propose.  I am, Sir, Yr most obt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Shepard, 4 March 1781
From: Shepard, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Springfield March 4th 1781

                  Your Excellencies favor of the 22d Uuto came safe to Hand, Rd on the 1st Instant; duly observed the contence, immediately sent off an express to Majr Ashley, who has charge of the Recruits at Great Barrington, to get them in redyness to March, and with orders to him to take command of the whole those Rendezvousing at Great Barrington with those I shall send from this Post under the Comd of an officer who will join him at G. Barrington and for Majr Ashley to March them to West Point without loss of Time with a descriptive List with them.
                  I shall enclose to your Excellency a Return of the Number of Men sent on, but am much concernd that the Returns are so small, can account for it only in this way, that the Towns who are exerting themselves to compleat their Quota of Men retain those engaged to influance those wanting and send them on together—am assured many Towns have got the most of their Men in the prospect in future are more promising.
                  But am exceeding sorry to inform your Excellency that I have been much mortifyed to see so many  to impeed the Recruiting; and many of the recruits at present sent on are by no meens adequate to the Service.  out of Forty I have Received, Seven have Deserted, and Two others found to be old soldiers who had inlisted for the War, and had deserted those I shall send on confind with their crimes.
                  no Clothing have been provided by the State as yet, part of the Recruits I have sent on to Camp are badly cloth’d; have Armd the few sent from here.
                  I shall write to the Several superintendance to forward the Recruits immediately as I am informd many of the Towns have compleeted their Quota—and shall send them on to Camp with all possible dispatch unless I shall receive counter orders.
                  It is impossible to ascertain the Number that may soon be expected.  I am with every sentiment of esteem your Excellencies obediante Humbe Servt

                     Wm Shepard

                     The Number of Recruits Sent on to West Point With a Descreptive List
                      from Springfield 23from G. Barrington40Deserters under Confinementwith their crimes   568

                     Wm Shepard Colo.
                     Commanding at Springfield


Title: To George Washington from John Berrien, 5 March 1781
From: Berrien, John
To: Washington, George

                  Respectfull Sir

                  Danbury March 5th 1781
                  I have had the Honour of Receiving your Excellencys Favour of the 25th Ult. by Lt Torrey Respecting the Detention of some Hospl Stores, & the reasons said to be Alledged by me for such Detention.  I must Observe in Justice to my Character, that your Excellency has formed a true Judgment that there was Some Misapprehension on the part of those who have Reported to you, which are that the Reasons Alledged by me for their Detention, was not that they were Purchased on Private Cr; (though if I have been Rightly informed that was the Case of some of them) but that I had Receiv’d from my Principal Repeated positive and peremtory Orders, not to Deliver Certain Articles I had Rec’d from him, to any other than his own Order, Which Order I had Acknowledged the Rect of6 & promis’d to make the rules of my Conduct, after which I could not think myself Safe in the Delivery of the Above stores to any other Order, nor Part with them in any other mode than the ones Adopted by your Excellency, (for which you have my thanks) Having seen Repeated Instances of Subbordinate Staff Officers, being Harrassed in Civel Courts to their great Damage, without any Relief or Suport from the great Public or their Superiors in the Department.  I have Taken the Liberty to Lay before your Excellency the true Reasons & those Alledged by me; for the Detention of those Stores; & I flatter myself you will do me the Justice to believe I had no Mercanary Trafficking motives, in the Agency I have had in this Business; a Conduct I have Studiously avoided since the Commencement of the War—I will not take up more of your Excellencys time on a Subject (though of some Consiquences to me of Little to the Public;) & shall only Add that I am with Every Sentiment of Esteem & Respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient & Very Humble Servt

                     John Berrien


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 5 March 1781
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Philadelphia March 5. 1781

                  I do myself the Honor to forward the enclosed Despatches from General Greene, also the enclosed Copy of a Letter from Governor Jefferson which contains the latest Intelligence received from the Southward.
                  Perhaps the enclosed Letter addressed to your Excellency, (supposed to be) from Governor Jefferson, may contain similar Intelligence.
                  By the enclosed Copy of an Act of Congress of the first Instant your Excellency will be informed that the Confederation is finally ratified by all the States.  I have the Honor to be with the highest respect your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant

                     Sam. Huntington

                     P.S. Your Excellency’s Favour of the 24th Ulto was this Day received.


Title: To George Washington from Abraham Whipple, 5 March 1781
From: Whipple, Abraham
To: Washington, George

                     Sir:
                     Providence March 5th 1781

                  Having been in the war ever since June 1775 invested with a Command by Sea which held in service of the United States onboard their Ships Columbus & Providence where Continued till the surrender of Charlstown So. Carolina by Capitulation to the British Arms when became a Prisoner to Vice Admiral Arbuthnot who admitted me to Parole as Commanding Officer of the Ships of the United states on that Station—and allowed me the liberty of Returning home to wait an Exchange as should be effected, which Exchange I would beg leave to Acquaint your Excellency have not been able as yet to procure although have made every Application.  No prospect presenting of facilitating an Exchange the United States having no Sea Officers of my Rank in their possession.  I finally addressed myself to his Excellency the French Admiral at Newport desiring the favour of being exchanged for Captain Geo. Gayton of the Romulus forty four Gun Ship late taken by a part of his Most Christian Majisties Fleet from Rhode Island, to which was pleased to Return for Answer by the Major of the Fleet, that he could not effect it without your Excellencys permission as he concieved your concurrence necessary for his justification. My situation being such as mentioned and having been a prisoner so long I cannot but flatter myself with the hopes that your Excellency will grant me the favour of your kind interposition with the French Admiral and Restore me again to all the immunities of a free Citizen by procuring my liberty in Exchange for Commod. George Gayton—inclosed I transmit a Copy of my Parole—and have the honour to Remain with every Sentiment of the Deepest Respect Your Excellencys most Obedient very humble servt

                     Abraham Whipple


Title: To George Washington from John Mathews, 6 March 1781
From: Mathews, John
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear Sir
                     Philadelphia March 6th 1781

                  I received your favor of the 26th Ulto the 1st inst.  In answer thereto, I beg leave to observe, That all the gentlemen now prisoners at St Augustine, were either acting as officers in the militia; or as private soldiers, at the time they were made prisoners.  And I cannot conceive they can be looked upon, in any other light, than that in which they acted at the time of their captivity.  Indeed by the capitulation of Charles Town, this is a point clearly decided.  I conceive when the people of a country, lay aside the characters of citizens, and assume that of soldiers, through the whole course of the accidents of war, they are to be considered according to their military rank only, that of the citizen being absorb’d in that of the soldier.
                  For instance, all the British officers taken in America, who have been members of their parliament, or House of Lords, have not been considered as such, at the time of exchange, but simply in the ranks they have held in their army.  Genl Burgoyne was a Governor, he was never considered in all the cartels that have been propos’d in any other light than as a Genl officer.  Several other officers, I believe, have held civil commissions, independent of their seats in parliament.  From these considerations, I cannot think Sr Henry Clinton can have an Idea of holding those gentlemen at St Augustine, by any other characters than those they respectively held in the military line at the time of their capture.  Should your Excellency find this objection started by Sr H. Clinton, in the course of your negociations, I think Congress should be immediately acquainted with it, that they might be enabled to take their measures accordingly.
                  If they can bring any criminal charge against those gentlemen, let them exhibit them.  And if the charge is proved, they must suffer, if not, its high time, that justice should be done them.  Congress cannot with honor, longer delay it.  A speedy exchange, has hitherto been the only cause of its being suspended.  I am, Dear Sir with the highest respect & every sentiment of the most sincere Esteem & regard Yr Excys most Obedt Servt

                     Jno. Matthews


Title: To George Washington from William Fitzhugh, 7 March 1781
From: Fitzhugh, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Lowr Marlbro’ March 7th 1781

                  I had the Honor to Address you on the 20th of January last, in Answer to Your Acceptable favor of the 8th of Novr & gave you an Acct of the Proceedings of Our Assembly to that time—We Afterwards Pass’d Several Bills, Viz. to Accede to the Confederation—to Confiscate Brittish Property, & to raise recruits for the Army, By Classing Property, Every £16.000 to find a Man & on Failure, a Draught to take Place in Each Dilinquent Class—The Draughts to Serve only to the 15th of December next—we Endeavord to Carry it for three years, but found it Impossible.  The Confederacy being now Compleat, I hope the Powers of Congress will be Ascertain’d, & made Equal to the Important Business they have to Direct, & this I suppose may be Done by a Convention of Delegates, or a Delegate from every State, to fix & Ratify, a Necessary Jurisdiction.  No other mode has Occur’d to me by which it can be Done Effectually.  However, I presume Congress will not Delay to recommend what to them may Appear Expedient.
                  My son Perry is now with me & presents His respectful Compliments—He is waiting to know His Distination in the Approaching Campaign.  General Thompson has Honor’d Him with the Promise of an Appointment to be One of His Aids, so soon as that Generals Rank is Settl’d & He call’d to the Service.  But as that Event is Uncertain, & my Son by Waiting for it, may Incur the Censure of Neglecting His Duty, And as your Excellency may be probably able to form a Judgment of General Thompsons Prospects. He would be much Oblig’d to you for your Sentiments theron which will be a Direction to Him, Either to wait or Proceed to the Southward & there Join His Regiment.;  He has never yet recd His Commission As Cornet, nor does he know How he may Stand in the Regiment to which He Belongs, Considering the Vacancys which have Happen’d Since His Captivity.  But this I suppose will in Due time be Communicated.  Mrs Fitzhugh & My Son Perry Join with Me In respectful Complts & best Wishes to you & Your Lady I have the Honor to be with the Highest Esteem & Regard Your Excellencys Affectionate & Oblig’d Hbe Sert

                     Willm Fitzhugh


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 7 March 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear General
                     Head of Elk March the 7th 1781

                  Contrary Winds, Heavy Rains, Disappointments of vessels And Every Inconvenience to which we Had No Remedy Have Been from the day of My Arrival Combined Against our Embarkation.  I Hope However we will Be on Board to Morrow Morning, and As Nothing Certain Has Been Heard from the french Ships, No time will be Lost on our part for the Celerity of the Expedition.
                  The troops will embark five Miles Below this place and three Miles Higher up than the point where General Howe land’d.  There will Be More Room for the Arrangement of our Vessels, and the Shallowness of Water Insures us Against the Enterprises of Any vessel of force.  In this Situation we May wait for Intelligences from our friends.
                  The State of Maryland Have Made to me Every offer in their Power.  I will Improve this Opportunity of Making up some deficiencies in the Quarter Master And Engeneer Departements, of Insuring to us A Good Stock of Provisions And Upon the intelligence Received that Baron de Stubens was gone with a large detachement to the Southward I Had Hinted the possibility of Getting Some Militia from the lower Counties and Repairing Some Cannon at Baltimore—But Having Read the Inclosed letter from the Baron, I Will write Again to Governor Lee (as my letter Has Been gone But two days) and Save the state from Any Expense of that kind.
                  to the obtaining of the Vessels Has Been joined the difficulty of getting them up the River, as they were taking every opportunity to slip off.  All the vessels, three Excepted, are Only Bay Crafts and our Admiral ship Mounts twelve guns.  I Have prepared Some kind of orders for that fleet But Hope to Be Relieved from My Naval Command By the Arrival of a french frigat, and Have at all events sent for Commodor Nicholson of Baltimore.  Mr McHenry Has Been Very active in accelerating the Measures of His State.
                  By a letter from Clel Gouvion dated Wihecomoco River I find that after Many Adventures He Had landed there on the 4th and Was Proceding By land to His Destination.  The wind is fair Enough to Come up the Bay and I Hope soon to Hear from our friends.
                  The Inclosed letter from the Baron Having first Come into My Hand, and Being on public service as it was writen upon to Be forwarded with Dispatch I took the liberty to oppen it.  But was very sorry to Have done it after a letter of the same date Had Come also to Hand.  Both Say the same thing (at least in every Material point) and I Am Happy to find that the Baron’s preparations are Going on Rapidly.
                  Whatever May Be the Baron’s opinion upon the facility of taking Sword in Hand the fortifications at Portmouth I will not Hazard Any thing Before I Have Considered the Matter with My own Eyes.  Arnold Had so much time to prepare, and plays so deep a game— Nature Has made the Position so Respectable, and some of the troops under His orders Have Been in so Many actions, that I don’t flatter Myself to Succed So Easily as it May Be thought.  The prospect of preserving Naval Superiority Must, I think, decide if we are to Save Blood shed By Regular Approaches, or to Risk our men into the dangers of an Assault.  But I would like to destroy the works in Some Measure Before we Attempt to Storm them—A Conversation with the Baron, with Clel Gouvion, and some other officers, joined to what I Can see Myself will Better fix My Mind on the Matter than it Can Be at present.
                  When I left Philadelphia General Waine was Not far from Hoping He Could soon Collect thousand men But I am not so Sanguine in My Expectations.  I am However trying to prepare Matters for this Number of Men,  But I think that a Sufficiency of Vessels (unless ours are sent Back) will Not be Obtained within a few days—let Gnl Waine Arrive in time or Not, where He Comes Under My direction, I will know if in Case we Succeed He Must Be Sent on to General Greene.
                  Supposing He is to go there, would Your Excellency think of Selecting Some Riflemen for the Grand Army?  It seems to me that I Heard You once Mentionning this Matter.
                  The State of Virginia, I am told, finds difficulties to the keeping of prisoners.  Suppose some thing of the kind was Started to Me, Am I to Alter Any thing in What You said to Me on the Subject?
                  I am in a Great Hurry to Go, My Dear General, But let us Succeed or fall in the object we Have in View, I Sha’nt Be less Hurried to Return with the Detachement to Head Quarters, where I Hope to Be again as soon as You May possibly Expect.  With the Highest Respect and Most tender Affection I Have the Honor to Be, My dear general Your Most obedient Servant and Affectionate friend

                     Lafayette

                     I Beg you will present My Respects to Mrs Washington and Mrs Hamilton and my Compliments to the family.  I Have Receiv’d Mr Washington’s answer.  He is waiting for me at the Baron’s quarters.


Title: To George Washington from William Shepard, 7 March 1781
From: Shepard, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Springfield March 7th 1781

                  The Genl Court Mertial orderd to Set by your Excellency for the Tryal of Mr John Collins being over I transmit to your Excellency the proceedings of sd Court.
                  As it was out of my power to procure a Field officer in the Vicenity of this Post to Set as President as Cols.  Shelden and Tupper were absent—on agreement of Mr Cheever and Collins I presided myself informing the Parties that the proceedings of sd Court would be transmitted to your Excellency to be approved or disaprov‘d.
                  The Court were very unanimous in their opinions that Mr Ely Persons who your Excellency will percieve was admitted as an evedence in the tryal was Equally concernd with Collins in disposeing of the Salt Petre—he not belonging to the Army I thought it not best to concern myself with him without perticuler orders.
                  I fear there is others in the department not much less guilty then Collins could the Truth be known.
                  I am very sorry to inform your Excellency that there is by appearence-- Sixteen or Seventeen Thousand Stands of Arms that want repairing and are ruin‘d soon if great care is not taken to prevent it—and must say (tho’ with regret) that every department at this Post is entirely Stagnated except the Labetary—tho’ the want of Money is the principle excuse—good eoconamy is as much wanting—here are many Idle men wanting coal, but no one coaling—many others wanting Timber but no one prepareing it-- and much Public Provisions Issued to Idle Public Servants.
                  I am unhappy to give your Excellency Pain by such representations but as a Public Servant I think myself in duty bound.  I am with ever expression of esteem your Excellencys most obedient and very Humble Servt

                     Wm Shepard


Title: To George Washington from John Armstrong, 8 March 1781
From: Armstrong, John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Carlisle 8th March 1781

                  Five Sabel months have passed over Since I last had the pleasure of writing yr Excellency & then unable to finish a letter of moderate length, of which indispossion I am fully recovered, but having passed the Sixty third of my age, find little capacity for active life except in the dreams of an intoxicated immagination, which ought to be corrected & the thoughts turned upward; permit me Sir to wish your present years may be protracted not to any specified period, but as long as you can be serviceable to your country or comfortable to your Self.
                  This remote part of the country admiting but little news and being now out of the publick line of politicks, you will readily see the designe of the present to be only a memento of ancient & invariable friendship which ought not easily to be extinguished.  At the same time we may a little lament our present embarrasments without enveying against our rulers; but with greater pleasure observe the various dawnings of hope & assistance resulting from the divine government alone.  As to the former your Excellency has but too many proofs of the complicated evils prevalent amongst us & a greater share of their consequent burthens than any but an enemy could wish—ignorance in the novel and subtile business of finance, together with the want of an earlier Reformation in the whole line of expenditure have been at the bottom of all our distresses; the latter however desireable cannot to any great purpose be accomplished until our money is reduced to some settled Standard, nor even then whilst the argument of Scarcity can possibly be introduced.  we have also to regret that spurious kind of knowledge lately improven amongst us, known by the name of Speculation, but of worst kind the genuine offspring of Averice & pride.  With respect to finance, it has been to us like the doubleings of an Eele, having brought Congress to their wits-end—that body in my opinion having long been involved in thick darkness unable to make any certain estimate of Success from natural resources or any arrangements they can make, must only draw a bow at adventure, or grope for the wall in the dark, supporting their laudible hopes on the divine government in the justice of their cause; and here must we wish the mind of every virtuous American may humbly Center without any relaxation of the natural means.  On the other hand We have lately had several favourable appearances from the South a Country not well Stored with military Supplys, and previously visited by a Series of misfortune or rather necessary chastisement—amongst these flattering prognosticks, the affair of Genl Morgan has been of the kind not only compleat, but attended with some circumstances clearly providential & manifestative of the divine favour on our part.  Such was the ease & Suddenty of the victory, the essential part of the conflict as some say not lasting above ten minutes—the Safety of his retreat with the prisoners & interveneing rains in his favour; to these may we not venture to add the precipitate March of Genl Cornwallis of near two hundred miles, Genl Green retreating to better resources & the other leaving his behind, who if not supported by Genl Philips in his rear (as Some now say he is) can not easily expect to return; hopeing as we do that the good people of N. Carolina & Virginia will observe the happy Opportunity presented to them.  Fears are expressed for Genl Green, or that Cornwallis will form a junction with the Arch-traitor, but in either case are these fears groundless & the efforts rather to be desired—the ground of apprehension if any there be is that a Retreat may be attempted similar to the pursuit, on what effect those new operations, loss of strength and detachment of troops may have upon West Point.  The Neutral Confederation in Europe has also a Salutary aspect & the approach and Success of our warm friend the Count De Estaigne if true, must greatly enliven our hopes—Our Embarrasments are many, but the Lord Reigns, would to God our Sentiments were more pure and our lives more conformable to his Government.
                  Recruiting in this part of the Country but begining requires more time to know the effect, and so mortifying is the affair of the Pennsylvania line & so crude the censures of some that I can only be silent upon it.  The complicated affliction of poor Genl Gates, is really moving—we hear that on his return he found his house inhabited only by Servants, Mrs Gates having absented her Self from the View of it after the death of her son—and that they are very disconsolate—He has Sent for Major Armstrong who but just recovering from a dangerous fever which was followed with a Cough & pain in his breast, has gone up to him—the General will probably soon repair to Congress—from all I have heard of  the  and order of tryal appears to have been  By a late report from the South its said that Genl Greene has Arrested Coll Armong upon the representation or depossition of One or more officers of Rank now prisoners at Charlestown, impeaching him of bad conduct on the 16th of August.  I am dear General—with every Sentiment of gratitude & regard your Excellencys most Obedt humble Servt

                     John Armstrong


Title: To George Washington from Charles-René-Dominique Sochet Destouches, 8 March 1781
From: Destouches, Charles-René-Dominique Sochet
To: Washington, George

                     Monsieur
                     a bord du Duc de Bourgogne le 8 mars 1781

                  je m’empresse de rassurer votre excellence sur l’evenement arrivé a la flûte Le Fantasque.  L’officier que j’ai envoyé a bord de ce vaisseau me rend compte qu’il n’a essuié aucun dommage en s’echouant, et il se flatte qu’avec L’aide de la marée et le secours des chaloupes de L’escadre qui vont s’y rendre, ce vaisseau sera relevé en tres peu de temps.
                  jespere que cet accident ne retardera mon depart que de quelques heures, et qu’il n’apportera aucun obstacle au succes de L’expedition projettée je suis avec respect Mosieur de votre excellence Le tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur

                     Destouches


Title: From George Washington to Christopher Ellery, 8 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Ellery, Christopher

                     To— Christr Ellery, William Channing Wm Taggart & Soln Southwick Esqr.
                     Gentn
                     New Port 8th March 1781

                  Among the distinguished honors which have a claim to my gratitude since my arrival I have seen with peculiar satisfaction those effusions of esteem and attachment which have manifested themselves in the Citizens of this antient Town.  My happiness is complete in a moment that unites the expressions of their sentiments for me with their suffrages in favor of our Allies.
                  The conduct of the French Army and Fleet, of which the Inhabitants testify so grateful and so affectionate a sense, at the same time that it evinces the Wisdom of the Commanders and the discipline of the Troops, is a new proof of the magnanimity of the Nation.  It is a further demonstration of that generous zeal & concern for the happiness of America which brought them to our assistance—a happy presage of future harmony— a pleasing evidence that an entercourse between the two Nations will more & more cement the union by the solid and lasting ties of mutual affection.
                  I sincerely sympathize with you Gentlemen in lamenting the depredations suffered by this Town while in possession of the Enemy and heartily join you in those liberal wishes the accomplishment of which would soon more than restore it to its former flourishing condition.
                  Accept my acknoledgements for the polite and obliging manner in which you have been pleased to communicate to me the sentiments of your fellow citizens and the assurances of my warmest esteem for them and for you personally.

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Christopher Ellery, 8 March 1781
From: Ellery, Christopher
To: Washington, George

                     Sir

                        8 March 1781

                  We Inhabitants of the antient Town of Newport, warmed with the purest sentiments of Esteem and respect, beg leave thro’ their Committe to Congratulate your Excellency upon your arrival at this Town the Capitol of the State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations.  Permit us to assure your Excellency, that Words are inadequate to express the Joy, which your presence has infused into the hearts of our Fellow Citizens.  Happily, guided by the Supreme Director of the American Councils, your Excellency was placed at the head of their Armies;  Our Gratitude is greatly excited to Heaven for the Protection of your Excellency’s Person, thro’ all those scenes of danger and enterprize, incident to War, and which your Excellency has sustained with a patriotism and fortitude, unparall’d in the Page of History—We will not Cloud the festivity of this day, by enumerating the scenes of lawless rapine and devastation, which has so peculiarly mark’d the steps of a Tyrannical & rapacious Enemy in this Town.  The thought merely occurs, and deprives us of affording your Excellency some further manifestations of our sincere regard.  Suffer us, here Sir, because We know it must give your Excellency a most sensible pleasure, to express the happiness this Town has enjoy’d with the army and fleet of our Illustrious Ally, who have, by the wisdom and prudence of their Commanders, as well as their own most zealous Inclinations, allied themselves to us, not as soldiers only, but as Friends & Citizens.  Armed in a most Righteous Cause, engaged for all that Men hold most dear, what blessings may not America, under the auspices of a kind & overuling Providence, be led to expect from the future exertions of your Excellency, the military Ardour of our American Troops, and an Army & Fleet of a most Generous & Magnanimous ally—thirsting for glory and eager to bleed in the cause of liberty & Mankind.
                  We congratulate your Excellency upon the late signal successes of the American Arms by land, and those of our Allies by Sea.  May the succeeding Campaign be productive of the End of all our Efforts, Liberty Peace & Independance to the United States of America and Happiness to all Mankind.

                     Christr Ellery
                     William Channing
                     William Taggart
                     Soln Southwick


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 8 March 1781
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Richmond march 8 1781

                  I had the pleasure of receiving a Letter from General Greene dated High Rockford february 29 (probably march 1) who informs me that on the night of the 24th Colo. McCall surprized a subaltern’s guard at Hart’s mill, killed 8 and wounded and took 9 prisoners, and that on the 25th Genl Pickens and Lieutenant Colo. Lee routed a body of near 300 Tories on the Haw river, who were in arms to join the British army, killed upwards of 100 and wounded most of the rest, which had had a very happy effect on the disaffected in that country.
                  By a Letter from major Magill an officer of this state whom I had sent to Genl Green’s head quarters for the purpose of giving us regular intelligence dated Gilford county march 2d I am informed that Ld Cornwallis on his retreat erected the british standard at Hillsborough that a number of disaffected under the command of a colo. Piles were resorting to it when they were intercepted by Genl Pickens and Lt Colo. Lee as mentioned by General Greene and that their commanding officer was among the slain, that Lord Cornwallis after destroying every thing he could at Hillsborough moved down the Haw river that Genl Greene was within six miles of him, that our superiority in the goodness tho not the number of cavalry prevented the enemy from moving with rapidity or foraging.  Having desired major Magill to be particular in informing me what corps of militia from this state joined General Greene he accordingly mentions that 700 under General Stevens and 400 from Botetourt had actually joined General Greene, that Colo. Campbell was to join him that day with 600 and Colo. Lynch with 300 from Bedford were shortly expected; the last three numbers being riflemen, besides these mentioned by major McGill Genl Lawson must before that time have crossed Roanoke with a body of militia the number of which has not been stated to me.  Report makes them 1000 but I suppose the number to be exaggerated.  400 of our new levies left Chesterfield court house on the 25th of february and probably woud cross the Roanoke about the first or second of march.
                  I was honoured with your Excellency’s letter of Feb. 21 with in seven days after its date.  We have accordingly been making every preparation on our part which we were able to make.  the Militia proposed to operate will be upwards of 4000 from this state and 1000 or 1200 from Carolina said to be under Genl Gregory.  The enemy are at this time in great measure blockaded by land, there being a force on the east side of Elizabeth river.  Tho they have free exit from Elizabeth river, They suffer for provisions, as they are afraid to venture far enough to marode in any great degree, lest the french Squadron shoud be in their neighbourhood and come on them.  Were it possible to block up the river, a little time woud suffice to reduce them, by want & desertions and woud be more sure in its event than an attempt by storm.  I shall be very happy to have it in my power to hand you a favorable account of these two armies in the south.  I have the honour to be with the greatest esteem & respect Your Excellency’s most obedient & most hble servant

                     Th: Jefferson


Title: From George Washington to Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 8 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

                     Sir
                     New port 8 March 1781 10 oClock P.M.

                  I do myself the honor to inform Your Excellency that the Fleet set sail this Evening about Sun Set, with a fair Wind—We have not yet heard of any movement of the British in Gardiners Bay—A few days must determine whether they intend to give us any interruption.  I have the honor to be with the highest Respect Yr Excellency’s Most obt and hble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Elias Dayton, 9 March 1781
From: Dayton, Elias
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Chatham March 9th 1781

                  Three persons upon whom I very considerably depended for for the discovery of every important movement or transaction of the enemy are apprehended and closely confined in New York, and I am just informed are sentenced to die.  As it has become more dangerous, from the late great jealousy and circumspection shewn by the enemy, so it has become more difficult to find such as will undertake to procure intelligence.
                  On Monday about two thousand British troops went on board transports prepared for them, which immediately cast off from the shore and anchored in the Stream.  four of them were filled with horses, several companies of artillery were embarked & a number of carriages and wheels for cannon seen on board They fell down toward the hook on tuesday and were to have sailed the day before yesterday but were prevented by the weather that day and yesterday.  Two frigates of 32 guns & a ship of twenty were to convoy them.  I am convinced they have sailed this morning, as guns have been heard supposed to be meant as signals.  It is said by some that they are intended to cause a diversion in favor of the southern army by landing in Pensylvania, by others that they are meant to cooperate with Cornwallis or Arnold as occasion may require.
                  The reception and treatment of the British flags at Elizabeth town is exceedingly irregular and improper and I think operates exceedingly against us, as I am confident it has proved the best and most direct channel of intelligence for them for some time.  I would wish to know whether it is your excellency’s pleasure that I should communicate the same instructions on that head, to the officer commanding there with those sent me by your Excellency when I commanded at that post.  I am your Excellencys most Obedient humble Servant

                     Elias Dayton


Title: From George Washington to William Gordon, 9 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Gordon, William

                     Dear Sir,
                     Newport March 9th 1781

                  Your letter begun on the 28th Ulto ended the first instant came to my hds at this place–  I am conscious of being indebted to you for several other unacknowledged favors.  I thank you for ascribing my omission to a multiplicity of other matters.  I can with much truth assure you that my business has encreased with our difficulties, & kept equal pace with them.  To what length these have arisen no man of observation need be informed.  Excepting to Mrs Washington when she is absent from me & now and then a letter to a friend (more on business than other matters for the purpose of communication) — rarely put pen to paper for private corrispondence—  Your complaint therefore is a common accusation against me. and wch I fear remain in too much force till our affairs are a little more systamized the powers of Congress enlarged, & military matters are in a less fluctuating state than they have been.  These changes would enable me to conduct the affairs of my department with ease & satisfaction to myself & allow me some time for private indulgences to which I have long been a stranger.
                  I came here the 6th on business & as soon as that business is finished I shall return to my Head quarters at New Windsor.  We have, as you veryJustly observe, abundant reason to thank providence for its many favourable interpositions in our behalf.  It has at times been my only dependence, for all other resources seem to have fail’d us.  My respects to Mrs Gordon.  I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 9 March 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                     My dear General
                     On Board the dolphin March the 9th 1781

                  Here I am at the Mouth of Elk River and the fleet under My Command will proceed to Annapolis where I am Assured they Can go without danger.  They are protected By the Nesbitt of Twelve guns, Some Field pieces on Board the Vessel that carries Clel Stevens, and we are going to Meet one eight guns, and one six guns Vessel from Baltimore——With this Escort We May go as far As Annapolis—No Vessel of the Ennemy Ever Ventured so far up, and if By chance they should, our Force is Superior to any cruizer they Have in the Bay—at Annapolis we will Meet Commodore Nicholson whom I Have Requested By a letter to take the General Command of our fleet, and if there was the least danger to proceed farther down—they are to Remain at Annapolis Untill I send them New orders.
                  As to Myself, my dear general, I Have taken a Small Boat armed with Swivels and on Board of Whom I have put Thirty Soldiers—I Will precede the fleet to Annapolis where I am to Be met By Intelligences, and Agreable to the State of things Below Will determine my personal Motions and those of the fleet.
                  With a full Conviction that (Unless you arrived in time at Rhodeisland) no Frigat will Be Sent to us, I think it My duty to the troops I command and the Country I Serve, to overlook some little personal danger that I may ask for a frigat Myself, and in order to add might to My application I Have Clapp’d on Board My Boat the only son of the Minister of the French Navy, whom I’ll take out to speak if Circumstances Require it.
                  our Men were much Crouded at First, But I unload the Vessels as we go along and take possession of every Boat that Comes in My way.
                  These are, My dear general, the Measures I thought proper to take—the detachment is, I Hope, free from Danger, and My Caution on this point Has Been so far as to Be called timidity By every Seaman I Have Consulted—Captain Martin of the Nesbitt who Has Been Recommended By General Gist Make Himself Answerable for the Safe Arrival of the fleet at Annapolis Before to morrow Evening.
                  With the Highest Respect and Most tender Affection I Have the Honor to Be, My dear general Your most obedient Humble Servant and Friend

                     Lafayette

                     Will you Be pleased, My dear general, to present My Respects to Mrs Washington, Mrs Hamilton and the family.


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 9 March 1781
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Philadelphia March 9th 1781

                  Having Experienced so much Ingratitude myself, I cannot help feeling for those in Similar Circumstances.  I Therefore take the Liberty of mentioning to your Excellency Colo. Derrick who I think has Sacrificed much in our Cause and has Experienced only Ingratitude in return.  he first Entered in the Pensylvania Line as Captain, was afterward Transfered to the Artillery & perswaded by General Mifflin to Enter the Quarter Masters Department as a place which would be most Serviceable to the Interest of these States.  he afterward received a Lieut. Colonel Brevet & was then Sent to Holland to promote our Interest in that Quarter & after having used Every Effort in his power & Spent Large Sums of money to answer the End in view he now Experiences the Loss of Rank the Dimunition of Fortune & the Threatnings of poverty and Distress as his reward.
                  As your Excellency has the appointment of Officers in Hazens & Some other Corps and as by the Report herewith Transmitted your Excellency has the power of Calling Reduced officers to Act in the Inspectors Department perhaps you may find it in your power to do him that Justice which Congress have neglected to do his zealous Endeavors to Serve the Common Cause in the Expedition against Rhode Island in 1778 where he Acted as a volunteer & Served on his own Expence induce me to wish that Something might be Done for him.  I have the Honor to be with much respect yr Excellencys most obedt Servt

                     Jno. Sullivan


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 9 March 1781
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Philadelphia March 9th 1781

                  Your Excellencys Letter of the 20th of December, was refered to a Committee of which I have the Honor to be one.  We yesterday gave in a Report which being read appeared satisfactory to Congress as no objection was made to it.  I moved That previous to its being Considered it might be refered to your Excellency for your opinion upon which it was recommitted; and The Committee Instructed to Consult your Excellency upon it.  I Therefore take the Liberty of Inclosing your Excellency a Copy of the Report and of requesting (in behalf of the Committee) your opinion upon it.
                  The first Paragraph is agreeable to the Line of promotion which your Excellency was pleased to point out: But as it could not be Extended to Hazens Regiment & others in similar Circumstances, the 2d resolution became necessary.
                  The Third & fourth respecting the Artillery and Cavalry are Liable to Some objections but much Less so than any other which suggested themselves to the Committee.
                  The Promotion of Brigadiers & Major Generals comes nearer to that of rising in the Line of the Army than any which has yet been adopted, or Suggested and any other would be attended with Insuperable Difficulties.  That of Suffering the States to have officers according to the number of Troops furnished would prove injurious to officers of the Smaller States & Even if they were to Stand Intituled to promotions when they became the Senior Officers In the Line of the Army:  Their promotion would be uncertain as they would constantly have to Combat with the Interest of States & the Caprice of Individuals to obtain it.
                  The Committee will Thank your Excellency for your Sentiments upon Every Paragraph of the Report and beg you to give the Date of Colo. Tilghmans & Doctor McHenry’s Entering the Service.  In behalf of the Committee I have the honor to be with the most lively Sentiments of Affection and Esteem Dr Genl your Excellencys most obedt Servant

                     Jno: Sullivan Chairman

                     P.S. The Clause respecting volunteers will prevent the army from being Commanded by illiterate Serjeants which must inevitably be the case in a few years if some such mode is not adopted.  J. Sn

                Enclosure

                           c.9 March 1781

                     The Committee to whom General Washington’s letter of the 20th of December was referred beg leave to report the following Resolutions.
                     Resolved, That battallion promotions in the infantry to the rank of commanding officer inclusive when such battallion is annexed to any State shall be in the line of such State.
                     That in Regiments of infantry not annexed to particular States promotions to the rank of commanding officer inclusive be regimental.
                     That regimental promotions in the artillery to the rank of commanding officer inclusive shall be in the line of Artillery at large.
                     That regimental promotions in the Cavalry to the rank of commanding Officer inclusive shall be in the line of cavalry at large.
                     With respect to promoting battallion officers to the rank of brigadiers your committee beg leave to report as their opinion that such promotions if confined to States that furnish one or more brigades will exclude the smaller States and of course destroy all pretentions to promotions by Officers of such States whatever may be their pretentions arising from seniority.
                     That permitting them to take place among the States in rotation will be no less injurious.  And that promotion from the eldest battallions Officers in the army will not only be injurious to Officers belonging to the larger States but will have a tendency to place troops coming from one extreme of the continent under the Command of a brigadier coming from another who cannot be so well acquainted with the temper and disposition of the troops as an Officer taken from among themselves.
                     To prevent these inconveniences your Committee have thought proper to confine the promotion of Brigadiers to certain districts in each of which Brigadiers when wanting shall be made from the senior battallion officer of that district without regard to any particular State—And they beg leave to submit the following resolutions viz.
                     Resolved, That so far as respects the promotion of battalion officers to the rank of brigadiers, the States of Newhampshire and Massachusetts be considered as making four brigades.  Rhode Island and Connecticut two brigades New York New Jersey and Hazens Regiment two brigades.  Pensylvania two brigades.  Delaware and Maryland two brigades.  Virginia and North Carolina four brigades.
                     Resolved, That whenever a Brigadier shall be wanting for the troops of either of those districts he shall be made from the senior battalion Officer without regarding the State to which he belongs.
                     Resolved, That in the cavalry and artillery Brigadiers shall be made from the eldest regimental Officers in those corps respectively.
                     Resolved, That Major Generals shall be made from the eldest brigadiers in the Army whether belonging to the Infantry, cavalry or artillery.
                     Resolved, That all Brigadiers hereafter made shall take relative rank agreeable to the date of their last battalion commission.
                     Resolved, That Tench Tilghman Esqr. receive the commission of Lieut. Col. to take rank from the Day of

                        .
                     Resolved, That Doctr McHenry receive the commission of Major to take rank from the day of

                        .
                     Resolved, That officers in commission not annexed to any line serving in the family of the Commander in chief and those serving as Aids de Camp with other general officers retain the same rank they now hold and shall be intitled to promotion when they become the eldest officers of that Rank in the line of the Army.
                     Resolved, That Officers reduced by the late arrangement may at any time previous to the first day of Janry next exchange commission with officers of the same State and of the same rank in the army under the direction and with the approbation of the commander in chief.
                     Resolved, That Volunteers serving one campaign may with the approbation of the Commander in chief receive brevet commissions in the lowest grades of subalterns not to receive pay till placed in command and shall not be intitled to half pay for life till annexed to some line.
                     All officers not connected with corps and now entitled to rank in the army by this arrangment shall be considered as reduced and receive half pay so long as they reside within the United States or owe allegiance to the same.
                     Resolved, That the Commander in Chief may employ such reduced Officers as he shall think proper in the Military Staff or in the inspectors department who are constantly to attend their duty in the Army.
                     Resolved, That all officers who are hostages and are liable to be called for by the enemy and are not continued in the line of any state shall be entitled to their full pay untill redeemed and to half pay for life afterward in the same manner as officers of equal rank reduced by the late arrangement and that it be recommended to the respective States in the line of which they were at the time of their becoming hostages to make good to them their depreciation and also to pay them such sums as are or may become due to them and charge the same to the United States.
                     Resolved, That Col. Dayton of the Jersey line be promoted to the Rank of Brigadier in the Army of the United States.


Title: To George Washington from Ezekiel Cheever, 10 March 1781
From: Cheever, Ezekiel
To: Washington, George

                     Hond Sir
                     Springfield, March 10th 1781

                  In obedience to your Excellencys orders Signify’d to me by Colo. William Sheppard to prosecute Mr John Collins alias John Collins late depy Comry milty Stores, before the Court Marshall held at this post for his Trial.
                  I have attended that duty & hope treated the Cause with Justice and the Court with honour.
                  When I caused Collins to be arrested, I determined notwithstanding his late Insolent & insidious practices to treat him as an Officer, and with all the Generosity Justice & duty would permit me.
                  After he deserted some Contentious dispositions diligent Observers of others business altho’ Scandalously negligent of their own, by detraction & ill natured interpretations, of my Innocent & kindly meant intentions, laboured to prejudice the minds of others with an Idea that I did not Cause a guard to be Sett over him purposely that he might Run off.  Otherwise he would bring me out for Peculation.
                  When I directed Commissary Barber at Boston to Send Collins to me at this Post, pursuant to your Excellencys Commands— I directed him to apply for a proper guard to Escort him to this place.  He and his Confedrates then Complained that I was his Cruel and malicious enemy for advertizing & ordering Collins to be brought from Boston to Springfield under Guard.  innocence is no defence against Envy & malice, Consious of my honest & well meant designs I despise their malevolent & insidious practices.
                  I take the liberty Sir, to enclose Copy of my letter to Mr Chester, relating the account he was pleased Voluntarily to give me of his oppinion, concerning Collins after he deserted.  I notify’d Mr Chester a Court Marshall was ordered for Collins Trial, and pray’d he would attend, otherwise Send me his Written Affirmation which the messanger sayes He told him he would do, and desired him to Call at the appointed Time for his Letter, which he Sayes he did and was informed Mr Chester was rode out of Town.
                  May it please your Excellency, I presume the Slightest examination will Shew the Falsities Contrdictions & absurdities Collins offer’d in Vindication of his Villainous Conduct.  This Department Sir, Is in a deplorable Situation for want of Money & other necessary Supplys which I have Repeatedly Represented to the hon. board War & Ordnance and Comry Genl.  My last advise from Mr Hodgson dated Feby 5th gives flattering hopes we shall have some Relief—We have neither Leather to Work or Coals to Burn at present.  However expect in a few days shall have a Couple Loads Coal; to be paid for in the Old Way as Country People Term it That is to pay in Work out of the Smiths Shop Vizt an Ax plough Share &c. which must do otherways Can’t obtain a single bushal (I have apply’d to Q. Mr Tuckerman he has transmitted my Request to Dep. Q.M.G. Hatch at Boston.  I have Sent to the Q. Mr at Hartford, but not any can be had)  Frequent demands are made for Articles which its not in my power to Comply with for want of necessary Supplies—  Colo. Shelldings Corps want their Pistols repaired, which occasioned me to Engage a Trifle of Coal at any rate to Serve the purpose and if furnished with Leather would have had their Saddles Repaired &c.  The neglect Shewn this department has Stagnated business Rendered it Contemptable and Discouraged all concerned.  I am informed the best workmen are determined to quit the Services, as soon as the Time they are Engaged for expires, which in a general way will be in Six weeks or two months and apprehend it will be Difficult in Case they are needed to Supply their places.  I hope when Collins affair is determined Jealousies & prejudices will Vanish, and Justice be had to this Injured & destitute Department.  Ever Solicitous to make my Services acceptable to your Excellency I have the honour to be with the most Respectful Zeal, your Excellencys, Most humble, most Obedient and most devoted Servant.

                     Ezekl Cheever D.C.G.M.S.

                Enclosure

                        Dear Sir
                        Springfd 17th Feby 1781

                     You may remember when I was favoured last with Dining with you at your house, we Conversed Concerning Collins Mal Conduct, you asked me if I did not know Collins was a Convict: you said he Certainly was.  I Reply’d I am Ignorant of the matter and untill Latley esteemed him not only Capable, but believed him an honest clever youngman, and was prejudiced in his favour by Learning he had kept your Store, and have aimed to serve him, but was now Convinced he was my Ungratful adversary—  You Sir, then was pleased to relate an Extraordinary Instance of his Conduct while in Your Service.
                     That one evening settling with Your Workmen According to Your Usual Custom, you treated them and supposed Collins did Make too free with the Liquor Circulating.  But that he was so haughty and Insulting, You was Constrained to call for a Couple of Your Negro Servants to put him out of Your Storehouse, that he screamed and Hallowed, in Such a manner you thot he would raise the town.  That Mr Riley Came to You. and you Intreated him to take Collins to his house and do as well as he Could with him, that after this You did not Care to employ him any further— and that soon after he Inlisted in the Continental Service in the Army— You added as you did not hear anything to his Disadvantage, you thot best to let the matter dye but Believed he was a Tory, for when General Washington was on his way to take the Command of the Army at Cambridge, stoped at Weatherfield or Hartford, in Conversaton You Observed that You Supposed that Military rules or laws, would soon take place, upon which Collins Expressed himself with great Vehemence, and Damned General Washington and said if he should order any such thing he would be the first man to take him off, or Quiet him, and you knew Collins was an Intimate with  Who sufferd at N. York for Conspiring to take the Life of General Washington.  You may Sir, Remember my Suprize, and your Observation that Collins knew your Eagle Eye, which made him worry when in your Service— I am Informed he has Rec’d a Letter from You and Others in his favour.  I dont want or aim to Depericate his reale merrit, only prove facts, and am perswaded you Would not Willingly Represent any thing to Anothers Injury, Unless You were fully Satisfy’d in the matter.  When Collins is brought to Tryal, shall give you notice and Expect and Depend You’l Confirm the Above Narration.  I am with due Respects Your H.S.

                        E.C.


Title: From George Washington to Massachusetts Continental Agent in Newburyport, 10 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Continental Agent in Newburyport, Massachusetts

                     Dear Sir,
                     New Port March 10th 1781

                  Your letter of the 19th Ulto from Newbury port came safe to hand as did one of an earlier date (I think) for when I requested you to purchase a pair of Epaulets for me at this place—it was on the presumption that there were French sutlers-- or shopkeepers who abounded in them—as this is not the case, It was not my meaning that you should and I am sorry you did give yourself any further trouble about them, especially as I have, since your departure, supplied myself.
                  Although the news of Count D’Estaings success was well held, & corroborated by concurring accts, I fear it wants a foundation—it would have been a most fortunate event if it had proved true.
                  Business brought me to this place on the 6th, and I expect to leave it again (in the course of a day or two) for New Windsor.  I am-- Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 10 March 1781
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters, Iron Works, North Carolina March 10th 1781.

                  Since I had the honor of addressing your Excellency last, there have been some changes in our circumstances.  On the 2d Lieutt Colo. Lee with a detachment of Rifle-Men attacked the advanced of the British Army under Colo. Tarlton near Alamance, and killed and wounded, by report, about thirty of them.  On the 6th the British moved down towards high Rock, either with a view to intercept our Stores, or cut off the Light Infantry from the main Body of the Army then advanced near seven Miles but they were handsomely opposed and suffered considerably without affecting any thing.
                  This Manoeuvre occasioned me to retire over the Haw River, and move down the North side of it with a view to secure our Stores coming to the Army, and to form a junction with several considerable reinforcements of Carolina and Virginia Militia, and one Regiment of Virginia 18 Months Men on the march from Hillsborough to high Rock.  I effected this business, and the Enemy retired towards Gilford Court House.
                  Our Militia had been upon such a loose and uncertain footing ever since we crossed the Dan, that I could attempt nothing with confidence, tho we kept within ten or twelve miles of the Enemy for several Days.  The Enemy kept close, seeming determined that we should gain no advantage of them without risquing something of consequence.  I have the honor to be with great respect and esteem, Your Excellencys mo. obt hble servt

                            Nath. Greene


Title: To George Washington from Abraham Skinner, 10 March 1781
From: Skinner, Abraham
To: Washington, George

                     sir
                     New Windsor March 10th 1781

                  In Obedience to your Commands of the 17th Ulto I have Exchanged a number of the Convention Officers who were Ordered to Elizabeth Town for the purpose of going into New York, against and for Officers of similar Ranks in possession of the Enemy as ⅌ the inclosed return No. (1).
                  I have also Exchanged Lt Colonel Hamilton and others Claimed by the State of Virginia as their Prisoners for Colo. George Mathews now out on Parole and a number of our Lieutenants as ⅌ the inclosed List No. (2).  There still remains in possession of the Enemy One Brigadier, Seven Colonels Two Lieutenant Colonels, One Captain and thirteen Lieutenants, for whose Release I proposed the Exchange of General Burgoyne and a Ballance of Privates due to me amounting to 271 Men, as ⅌ the inclosed No. (3). The Enemy refuse to accede to this Proposition unless the Proposal Contained in No. 4 is carried into execution, and We Consent to the Exchange of the Prisoners taken at the Cedars.
                  I shall thank your Excellency for your further Commands on this Subject and to be informed whether I am Strenuously to insist on the Exchange of General Burgoyne previous to any other Negociation.  I am sir with great respect Your Excellency’s Mo. Obt Hume Servt

                     Abm Skinnr Comr Genl Pris

                Enclosure

                        New York 1st March 1781

                     Proposal of the Exchange of British Officers Claimed by the State of Virginia as Prisoners of War for a number of American Officers Prisoners of War to the British.

                      Lieut. Govr Hamilton 72 For Colo. Geo. Mathews 100Major Hay28Lt Nathl Lawrance6Capt. L. Mott16Richard Andrews6Surgns Mate McBeath4William Andrews6Interpreter W. Bellefuil  4 James Keeler   6124124Settled & Agreed toJosa Loring     Abm. SkinnerCom. Gen. Prisrs  C.G. Prisrs(Copy)

                Enclosure

                        sir
                        New York March 2d 1781

                     Having ratified with you the Exchange of the Convention Officers now on their way to Elizabeth Town, and having also adjusted our account of Privates-- I am now to propose to you, the Exchange of Lt General Burgoyne in conjunction with the Balance of 271 Privates acknowledged to be due to me; against and for the Officers now Prisoners with you, and unexchanged, and that if a balance should be due to me on this exchange, the same to be applied towards the relief of American Officers Prisoners to the southwards.  I shall thank you for your Answer to this proposal & am sir Your mo. Obed. & very hum. servt

                     (Copy)
                        Abm SkinnerCom. Gen. Prisrs


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 11 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                     Sir
                     Newport 11th March 1781

                  I do myself the honor to inform your Excellency that I arrived here on the 6th.  In consequence of previous arrangements between the Count de Rochambeau and myself I found between eleven and twelve hundred of the French Grenadiers and Infantry already embarked and the Fleet nearly ready to sail.  They however did not put to sea until the evening of the 8th.  By advices from New London the British, which were in Gardener’s Bay, did the same yesterday morning with their whole force.  They gave out that they were bound for Chesapeak.
                  A meeting of the two fleets seems unavoidable, and perhaps the issue of a contest between them was never more interesting.  I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect Yr Excellency’s Most obt and hble Servt

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S. I have recd several of yr Excellency’s late favors, which I shall more particularly acknowledge on my return to New Windsor.


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 11 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                     Dear Marquis
                     Newport 11th March 1781

                  I informed you on the 8th in the Eveng that the French Fleet had put to sea.  By advices from New London the British did the same yesterday morning with their whole force.  They gave out publicly that they were bound for Chesapeak—I think the French had so much the start that they will first reach that Bay, but as there is no accounting for the delays and accidents of the sea I have given you this notice; lest you, upon hearing that a Fleet had arrived below, might take it for granted that it was a friendly one and fall down—You will now see that precaution on that head is more than ever necessary—That success may attend you is the sincere wish of Dr Marquis

                     Yr &c.


Title: From George Washington to Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 11 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

                     Sir
                     Newport 11th March 1781

                  I did myself the honor to inform your Excellency that the French Fleet put to sea on the evening of the 8th.  By advices from New London, the British in Gardener’s Bay did the same yesterday morning.  They took their sick on board and departed with their whole force—  They gave out that they were destined for Chesapeak.
                  From appearances a meeting of the two Fleets seems unavoidable—  Their force is nearly equal—and the issue of a naval combat was perhaps never more interesting.  I will, however, hope that the good fortune, which has hitherto attended our Allies, will not desert them on the present occasion.  I have the honor to be with perfect Respect Yr Excellency’s Most obt and Hble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Olney to Tench Tilghman, 11 March 1781
From: Olney, George
To: Tilghman, Tench

                     Dear Sir
                     Providence 11th March 1781

                  My not seeing you after the Ball at Newport obliges me to take this method of requesting a favour of you, which I flatter myself your good nature will induce you to comply with, and which I shall ever most gratefully acknowledge as an obligation: It is to ask His Excellency, and acquaint me with his answer, whether, at Colo. Biddle’s Quarters in Morris Town, or elsewhere, "Mrs Olney, in a violent rage, told him, if he did not let go her hands she would tear out his eyes, or the hair from his head; and that tho’ he was a General, he was but a Man"; or whether she ever said a word to him that border’d upon disrespect.  You will doubtless be surpris’d at this extraordinary request, unless you have heard that such a report has been industriously spread thro’ the Country by some ilnatur’d, malicious person, which has greatly injured Mrs Olney’s reputation; but as I know it to be absolutely false, I cannot but hope you will kindly grant me a speedy compliance, to enable me to justify her by producing an indubitable written proof of its untruth.  With great esteem, I am Sir, Your Most Obt Hume Servt

                     Geo. Olney

                     P.S. If this should not reach you before you set out for Head Quarters, I shall send it after you, and beg you will write me by the first private or public conveyance, directing for me at Providence.


Title: From George Washington to Jacob Bayley, 12 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Bayley, Jacob

                     Sir
                     Newport 12th March 1781

                  I recd your favr of the 25th ulto at this place.  It is not in my power to comply with the request of the Men of Major Whitcombs Corps or with that of the Inhabitants of Coos to leave those Men upon the Frontier.  Congress finding the great expence incurred and little advantages derived from a number of detached Corps, small in respect to Men but full of Officers, have been pleased to direct all such to be reformed and the Men to join the Regiments of the States to which they respectively belong.
                  It would, as I have upon several former occasions mentioned, give me great pleasure to afford effectual cover to every part of the Country, but while I am scarcely furnished with the means of securing the most essential posts, I am every day under the painful necessity of refusing requests similar to the one now made by you in behalf of the Inhabitants of your neighbourhood.  I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to William Greene, 12 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, William

                     Sir,
                     Newport 12th Mar. 1781

                  I have been honored with your Excellency’s polite favr of the 8th—It would have given me singular pleasure had circumstances admitted of my making a visit to Providence upon my return to the Army, but the very interesting intelligence which we may now daily expect from the Southward make it necessary for me to return by the Route in which the chain of Expresses are Stationed; lest I should miss the dispatches which they may bring.
                  His Excellency the Count De Rochambeau informs me that there are some heavy Cannon at Providence which do not appear to be of any great use there, but would be of particular service to him, in the defence of this Post, he being obliged to strip a Frigate of her Guns and to mount some of his heavy field artillery for want of the number required for the works—When it is considered that this place effectually covers Providence, I flatter myself your Excellency will find no difficulty with the Legislature in granting the Counts request, should you not have the power yourself to lend the Guns in question.
                  The detachment which I a little time ago made from the Troops in the vicinity of West-point obliged me to call upon the neighbouring States to send in the Recruits which were raised.  I directed my order to Lt Colo. Olney for Men of Rhode Island, and I have not the least doubt of that Gentlemns punctuality in the execution of it so far as respects the men who have been delivered to him; but I must entreat your Excellency’s exertions to procure the deficiency of your quota, if any yet remain, that they may arrive at the Army time enough to the receive the necessary discipline before they are carried into Service.  I have the honor to be With great respt & Estm Yr Excellys most Obt Servt

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  Since writing the foregoing letter, I have, for particular reasons determined to return by the way of Providence; and shall set out in the morning for that place.

                     G. W—n


Title: From George Washington to Meshech Weare, 12 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Weare, Meshech

                     Sir
                     Newport 12th March 1781

                  Having lately been obliged to make a very considerable detachment from the troops in the vicinity of West point, I have been under the necessity of calling upon the neighbouring States to send forward the new Levies which have been raised, and of urging them to compleat their Quotas as expeditiously as possible.  The same reasons urge me to make the same requests of your State, and to desire that the Recruits may, if possible, be sent forward cloathed; for such have been our repeated disappointments in the Cloathing expected from Europe, that our Magazines are nearly exhausted.  If the proper Uniform for the troops of the State could be procured, it would be a very desirable circumstance, for we are more deficient in Coats than any other Article.
                  I shall be glad to hear from you on the subject of the foregoing—Your letter will find me at New Windsor, for which I set out tomorrow.  I have the Honor to be Sir Yr most obt and hble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Whitcomb, 12 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Whitcomb, Benjamin

                     Sir
                     Newport 12th March 1781.

                  After the positive order given to you to send the Men of your Corps to the Regiments of the States to which they respectively belong, I little expected to have heard that they were still at Coos, and to have received a petition from the Men themselves desiring the indulgence of remaining there—You very well know the order was given in conformity to a Resolve of Congress for reforming the Corps and I shall therefore expect a strict compliance with it the moment this reaches you.  I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Philemon Dickinson, 14 March 1781
From: Dickinson, Philemon
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Hermitage 14th March 1781

                  On receipt of your Excellency’s favor of the 1st inst: I immediately returned to Jersey and have given the necessary direction, agreable to your Orders—I shall remain here some Days longer, when I shall return to my Family in Town, for a short time; should anything happen during my absence, I shall instantly be informed by Express, & your Excellency may be assured, of my immediate attendance.  I have the honor to be, Your Excellency’s Most Obt Servt

                     Philemon Dickinson


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Mitchell, 14 March 1781
From: Mitchell, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                  May it pleas your ExelencyWyoming March 14th 1781
                  Agreeable to Orders I Arrived at this place the 18th of Jany last.  Since Which time I have been Makeing the Necessary Preparations for the defince of this Post against the opening Campaign.
                  I have Arrected a New Magazine & a New Store both Within the Works; & have provided Timber for Raising the fort all Round as it Wass Much Impaired,  I have Made and stored a quantity of Cartredges; so that I am in no apprihention of Danger if an Attact should hapen.
                  On the Night of the Ninth Instant the enemy Made an Attect on the Inhabitince of Shawane about three miles on my left; the brave handfull defended thimselves against every Attempt Without the loss of a Man, Young Ransome Wass Wounded but not Mortal, one of the savages Were left Dead On the Ground on Reciveing Intiligience I Sent off a party Who fallowed them some Miles but could not over take them.  I Am your Exeley Most obediant and humble servent

                     Alexr Mitchell Capt. Comdt


Title: From George Washington to Jabez Bowen, 14 March 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Bowen, Jabez

                     Gentn

                        14 March 1781

                  I am happy in the oppertunity which your address affords me of testifying to you how deeply I am penetrated with those demonstrations of attachment which I have experienced from the Inhabitants of this Town.  The confidence and affection of his fellow Citizens is the most valuable & agreeable reward a Citizen can receive—Next to the happiness of my Country, this is the most powerful inducement I can have to exert my self in its Service—  Conscious of a sincere desire to promote that great object however short of my wishes the success of my endeavours may fall.  I console myself with a perswasion that the goodness of my intentions in some measure justifies your approbation.
                  The determination you are pleased to express of making every effort for giving vigor to our military operations is consonant with the Spirit that has uniformly actuated this state; It is by this disposition alone we can hope, under the protection of Heaven to secure the important blessings for which we contend.
                  With sincere gratitude for your sentiments and wishes towards me, I beg you to accept the assurance of that perfect esteem and regard with which I have the honor to be Gentn Yr most obedt & Hble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Elias Dayton, 15 March 1781
From: Dayton, Elias
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Chatham March 15th 1781

                  The fleet of which I gave your Excellency advice in my last, set sail & left the hook the day before yesterday about ten oClock.  The account which I transmitted of the number of sail, of troops and the horses embarked was, I believe strictly true.  Two frigates only sailed out with them, but I could not learn with certainty whether any part of Arbuthnot’s fleet were to join them on their way.  Their detention thus long has I am sensible been occasioned by the advices they had received of the sailing of the French fleet at the moment of their embarkation.
                  I am still of opinion that they are intended to land at Wilmington or by running up James river to form a junction with Arnold and either strengthen his position or assist in securing his retreat.
                  From the weakness of the enemy in the city and on the Islands, I conclude that they cannot undertake any important excursions, but will be contented to hold the posts they now occupy.  I have the honor to be your Excellencys most Obedient Hbl. Servant

                     Elias Dayton


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 15 March 1781
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Newport March the 15th 1781

                  I have received your Excellency’s Letter of the 11th instant.  The report mentioning the number of ships in the British fleet, seems to me to be accurate and confirmed by the correspondance of M—— T—— and by the prisoners arrived on board a flag: they have 7. ships of the line 2. 50 gun ships and 4. 44 gun ships with some frigates.  The Troops for the embarkation according to M—— T—— is only of 2000 men, and he mentioned the regiments employed in it.  I believe that their destination is for Willmington, tho’ they say it themselves; my reason for it, is that there are Dragoons and horses embarked, and it seems difficult to render them useful in Virginia, unless for the expedition on the Delaware that had been talked of: But Your Excellency can judge better than I, if their projects be possible or not.
                  In my instructions, mention is made of six millions of French Livres, which your Excellency may draw on France; to supply to the needs and cloathing of the American Army; But there is no doubt that the Chevalier de La Luzerne has commission to announce to your Excellency that pecuniary succour, in an official letter.
                  I wait with impatience for your Excellency’s answer to my Letter of the 8th, about the rendevous for the conference that Mr le Cte de Barras and I desire to have with your Excellency.  Mr le Cte de Barras has wrote Likewise to your Excellency to inform you of his arrival. I am with respect and personal attachment Sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient humble servent

                     le Cte de Rochambeau


Title: To George Washington from John Parke Custis, 16 March 1781
From: Custis, John Parke
To: Washington, George

                     Dear & Hond. Sir:
                     Richmond March 16th 1781.

                  It would render me happy could I inform you that the assembly which was called on the first instant, for the purpose of recruiting the Army and Treasury, were likely to adopt plans which would prove efficacious for either purpose but; alas! the reverse, I fear, will happen.  Patrick Henry, who possesses the most unbounded influence upon this House, is, in my opinion, the most absurd politician in the world.  He moved, the other day, that the draft, which has taken place in many counties, and would have taken place in the whole, in the course of this month, should be reduced from eighteen to twelve months.  Absurd as this motion must appear to every reasonable man, it did not want espousers though, fortunately, the number was too  and the motion was lost.  He declared that, from the behavior of the Militia, in the actions of Kings Mountain and the Cowpens he was convinced, that the independence of America could be established by them, and he could wish to see a Draft for twelve months take place; by which means, in time, we should have our Militia equal to Regulars.  I am happy to inform you that I have not heard of any opposition to the draft being made in any County.  I am sorry that there will be a necessity of drafting in most of the counties; more from the neglect of the officers than any disinclination in the men to enlist; as it is apparent that, when the law has been well executed, more or less men have enlisted for the war, or three years.
                  He (Patrick Henry) is also desirous that half of the tax which was laid, to furnish bounties for the recreuits, should be remitted; although half of the State, or two thirds, have paid it, or are prepared to do it.  This matter is not yet determined, and I am afraid he will succeed.  If he does, we may never expect to have a law, which will bear to and on the people, executed.  The people will readily conceive that, if the Assembly, of their own accord,  half their tax, they will certainly do it on their petitions; and, will not obey a law—expecting that the next assembly will repeal it.  By this means, all authority will be lost, and the State thrown into the greatest confusion.  A law was passed yesterday, making all the money that hath been emitted, or shall be emitted, by Congress or this state, a legal tender, in discharge of all debts and Contracts whatsoever; except specific contracts, expressing the contrary.  It is also proposed to emit ten millions of pounds more.  This tender act, iniquitous as it is, was carried by a majority of two to one, and will forever cast a reflection on the justice of the State.  The only acts that can be productive of advantage to the State are for subjecting the militia, while in actual service, to the Continental rules of war, and for raising two Legions, of six hundred infantry and a hundred horse each, on a plan resembling the minute plan.  The whole will be under the command of a Brigadier.  Spotswood, who laid the plan before the assembly, will be appointed to the Command of them.
                  I fear I have taxed your patience, by this tedious and disagreeable detail of matters; and, as I have nothing pleasing to communicate, presuming that you receive regular intelligence from the army in the South, I must conclude with assuring you that I am with the greatest sincerity, your most affectionate

                     J.P. Custis