Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 27 November 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                     Dear SirHead Quarters 27th Novemr 1782.

                  I have been honored with your favor of the 20th covering a Resolve making provision for the Geographers of the Army and another explanatory of the Resolve of the 7th of Augt—A Question has been made whether The liberty for senior Officers intitled to remain in service, to retire upon half pay, is confined to those Lines which are now to be reformed or whether the allowance is general—Be pleased to answer this as soon as possible, as I expect applications.
                  I have yet heard nothing from New Hamshire—New Jersey is taking measures to fill her Battalions to 500 Rank and File.
                  Hazens Regt is so respectable at present that I should not think a reform expedient at this time—He probably may have more Officers than the establishment requires—if so, the supernumeraries may be put upon the footing of those in other Corps.
                  I pray your attention to the Shirts for the Army—They are indeed extremely wanted, and I wish an answer to my letter of the 6th Inst. respecting the general supply of Cloathing for the next year.
                  I have granted a permit for the Ship Amazon to proceed from New York to Wilmington with Cloathing &c. for the Prisoners of War in Pennsylvania—Maryland and Virginia—I inclose you a Copy of it—I have informed Sir Guy Carleton of the consequences of putting other Goods than those really intended for the prisoners, on board the Flag, and have desired him to direct Capt. Armstrong to make you a Return upon his arrival at Wilmington of the number of Packages under his Care and their Contents.  You will then be pleased to furnish him with the necessary passports to the interior Country. I have the honor to be &c.

                     P.S.  We have such a great number of Arms become useless for the want of small repairs, that I am very anxious some measures should be fallen upon this winter to make our stock good—I submit to you, whether a Company of German Artificers, a Contract for repairing Arms, or some other immediate and effectual expedients, are not essential to the success of our future prospects.
                     The Inspector has represented the necessity of having Company Books sent on before the close of the year; as it will be impossible to have the accounts kept regularly without them; it is for that reason, I wish it might be done.


Title: To George Washington from Nathaniel Peabody, 27 November 1782
From: Peabody, Nathaniel
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Atkinson State of New Hampr. Novr 27th 1782.

                  I take the liberty to address your Excelly respecting the unhappy Situation of Lt Colo. Thomas Johnson of Newburg Co-os—who will take Charge of this letter, & do himself the honr to wait on your Excelly in person.
                  Colo. Johnson is desirous of giving to your Excelly every information in his power, relative to the Situation,  Strength, & designs of the Enemy, at the Northward, the embarrassed State of affairs in the country where he lives,  and more particularly the inelligable  Circumstances in which his own person, family, & domestic Concerns, are unhappily involved.
                  I have no doubt he hath been ungenerously deceived, injured, & betrayed, by some persons with whom he found it necessary to intrust Certain Secrets, to him of Great importance, and from whom he had a Just Claim to better Treatment.
                  The latter end of last month I received a letter from Colo. Johnson, Contents of which he will make known to your Excelly—And I should then have done myself the honr of Transmiting the same, with some other information, to your Excelly but on a Conferance I had with the Presedt of this State it was concluded, that intrusting affairs of that Nature by common post riders, would be unsafe for the public, & dangerous for Colo. Johnson, and that it was inexpedient to dispatch an express on purpose, as it was adjudged probable your Excelly had such a variety of other chanels for information, that there was little prospect of giving New & important intelligence.
                  From the best information I have been able to obtain, my own observation, and the personal knowledge I have had, often some years past, of Colo. Johnson am lead, without hesitating, to conclude that he is a faithful, & Sincere friend to, the independence of, these United States that he would contribute every thing in his power to promote the political Salvation of this his Native Country—And that he is a Gentleman on whose declaration your Excelly may place full dependence.  With the most entire Consideration of personal Esteem, I have the honr to be, Your Excellys most obliged obedt and very Huml. Servt

                     Nathl Peabody


Title: To George Washington from William Stephens Smith, 27 November 1782
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Washington, George

                     Sir.
                     Dobbs’s ferry 27th Novr 1782

                  Agreable to your Excellency’s Orders, I have visited the posts below, from whence I have this instant return’d, the wheather, since I arrived here, being remarkably dull, put it out of my power to report, before, with that accuracy that you wish—I lay last night with 12 men between fort Lee & Bulls ferry, the Troops on the Island were remarkably quiet, & but two small fires to be seen, one kept by a Water Guard encamp’d in 9 tents & one marque upon the point obliquely in front of fort Washington, where in 76 we erected a half-moon Battery, & the other, in rear of Cartrights House inclining towards the entrance (by water) of McGowen’s Pass.
                  As soon as it was light this morning, I tooke post above fort Lee, & remain’d there untill I had satisfy’d myself with respect to every thing exposed to view—within the work at fort Washington is a large Barrack, with 3 Stack of Chimnies, & a House in its rear, which I suppose  is occupied by the Officers Station’d in the fort—the construction of the fort, I presume your Excellency is acquainted with, it is defended by a ditch, & strong pointed Pallisadoes thickly planted in the face of the work nearly horizontal, part of the right Curtain of the salient Angle towards the City appears to be considerably defaced & neglected, it is defended by three Embrazures & the five of the opposite Curtain, only viewing it obliquely, I cannot assent whether they are furnish’d with Cannon or not—the Gorge of the work fronts the City, & is upon the right of the rentrant Angle, it is large, & the ditch appears filled at its entrance, the Barracks fronts Kings bridge, in which front appears their parade for roll-call &c.—the Esplanade must be small when we consider the proportion the Barracks bear to the work—If an attack should be made upon an unexpected Quarter I think confusion must ensue, in consequence of the Houses occupying the Centre, & the troops pressing to the point of attack thro’ a contracted space.
                  The fort in front that supports the left of the Barrier appears in good order—Near the blue Bell are Hutts in line, & two marques—as they kindled their fires I traced the smoak, & discovered Hutts on the left of the fort, from the Idea I have of the ground, I immagine these Hutts run parallel to the road between fort Washington & Laurel Hill, the Chimnies are to be seen the whole distance, except where the sumit of the Hill & the work intercepts the view—there is also a Barack near the Barrier, standing some distance from & at right angles with the last of the Hutts mentioned, this has 5 stack of Chimnies and appears new.  I could discover but very little of any of the works on laurel Hill, I observed two Centinels on works over & some distance from fort washington, with a small number of Hutts, irregularly built—the Centinels appear to be Hessian.
                  From the Blue Bell to Cortrights or the Brick House, there are no troops, not even a pickett or a Centinel, that I could discover—there appear to be officers quarter’d at this House, & 5 very small Hovels in different parts of the open field in rear, but do not appear as a guard or to have any particular business, or connection with the House—on the west of the road about 200 yards upon the right in front of the house are barracks, that are partly screen’d from the view by a Hill.  In The House where General Greene quarterd in 76 appears to be occupied by officers, & from the south side of the Hill facing it, where we fortify’d after the action of the 16th of Septr 76 regular Smoaks arose in the morning & continued, from this I conclude there are Baracks there also.  The Hollow way across the Island is entirely open & free from troops—The western face of the Island is free from troops excepting the two small guards mentioned—The guard on the shore in rear of Cortrights, appears to furnish but one Centinel & the water guard I belive, rely upon the vigilence of their boats & ships for their security—From the smoaks that arose I am of opinion, there is another Cantoonment somewhere near the 7 mile stone.
                  Under these Circumstances the most favourable place for landing in case of an attack, is upon a small flatt, about midway between Morris’s House and Cortrights, where by all the troops, excepting those, immediately in the vicinity of the forts, will be thrown a considerable way in rear, & no apparent difficulty with respect to picketts or Centinels, in short, the passage from this flatt to the defaced angle of fort washington is open, & perhaps sufficiently in rear of the troops at the Blue bell, to pass unobserved, should not the alarm take, previous to our arrival at that point—The advance upon laurel Hill may be less difficult, as there is more ground between the front of the troops & the margin of Harlem Creeck, than there is from their rear, to the No. River, but the nature of the ground is such, that I was not able to fix an opinion only on conjecture.
                  The two ships lay opposite Spiten-Devil, & a Brig. under fort Washington, whose Station is unsettled—The ships seem equally to divide the distance from Shore to Shore, and in their present position, I think it scarcely possible for a single boat to pass unobserv’d, this however I shall attempt, & land upon the Island, & reconnoitre towards fort Washington, as far as prudence will Justify; provided it meets with your Excellency’s approbation.
                  There are four ships lay at the mouth of the river & several heavy guns fir’d at the Hooke; between 10 & 11 A.M. one of the ships fired 10 Guns destinctly, this I observ’d but cannot account for.
                  I am under the necessity of observing that keeping my Horses without a forage master is very expensive & I am out of Cash—I am with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s most devoted & obliged Servt

                     W.S. Smith Lt Colo.

                Enclosure

                         c.27 November 1782

                     If the Plan for the surrender of the advanced Post of the Refugees, with the Guardship should take place, I would beg leave to state to your Excellency my Ideas of the advantage that may be taken of the consequent situation of the Enemy & hope the Liberty will be excused—The surrender of the Post will give us the fullest command of the shore opposite fort Washington,  the surrender of the ship, the command of the navigation—allowing these Circumstances to take Place, will it not be in our Power to possess ourselves of the forts Washington & George on laurel Hill—(the real Garrisons of which do not at present consist of more than one hundred men each) provided the strength of the Army should justify a movement to the heights of Kings bridge to cover the enterprize—The Plan that strikes me at present is that on the day previous to the surrender of the Post & ship—a well chosen Detachment of about one thousand men should embark at west Point in flat bottom’d Boats to proceed on that day to stoney Point & from thence in the Evening under the Jersey shore untill within sight of the ship—there to wait a signal that may be agreed upon from the ship for their advance—when they will proceed with all possible dispatch as far as fort lee & strik immediately across to the landing in front of Roger Morris’s House distant from fort Washington about 800 yards—the party will on their landing (which I will suppose effected before the dawning of the Day) divide themselves into two parties of 500 each & by a rapid movement possess themselves of the forts above mentioned—the lower post would of consequence fall & we remain in full possession of that Part of york Island—Which either for the purpose of taking the Garrisons & Stores and destroying the works, or making an important lodgement on the Island—may perhaps appear of sufficient consequence to justify the attempt—For if the siege of New York cannot be carried on this season nor no important movement call our attention to another Quarter—the stroke if compleated will give a very pretty Lustre to our Arms—If the Seige should be determined upon the Situation of the army by the time this can take effect will I should immagine be sufficient to secure the possession of the Post untill, other matters present themselves to justify a further movement—I have omitted mentioning the movements of the main army as that must naturally take Place in such a Manner as to appear on the heights of Kings bridge by day Light in the morning that the plan is executed—The objections that arise, are that the surrender of the refugee Post may be a decoy on the part of the enemy, if so, I think they may be made to suffer for it—it will consist according to the best information I can obtain, of about 350 Men, after fixing with the officer commanding the night it is to be surrenderd inform him that possession will be taken with 150 men under the command of Colo. Dayton—the reason why I would fix upon so small a number is, that if they mean to capture the Party, their being so small may possibly induce them, to permit their enterence at least into their abatis, immagining thereby more effectually to secure the whole—not having anything material to dread from so small a number—this Party should advance for that Purpose, supported at the distance of about two hundred yards by the Jersey and York Brigades commanded by Colos. Ogden and Cortlandt—that in case resistance should be made these troops should advance and carry it by assault punishing the Villians with the utmost severity.
                     A question now arrises what will become of the thousand Men who wait the signal from the ship, I will Observe that their advance will not be further than the Point that projects from the Block House at Dobbs’s ferry excepting two Boats advanced of each other for the Purpose of observing more accurately the signal from the ship and conveying it to the troops—this signal may be from the ship by a lanthorn suspended at the fore-yard Arm & convey’d by dark lanthorns from the Stern of the advanced boats, upon which the Troops will advance & proceed upon the Enterprize as above stated—another Objection may be here stated, that the Enemy may probably have address enough previous to the advance upon the Block House to throw out the signal mentioned and the troops by the consequent advance be inevitably lost—to Obviate this I will observe that they must not be acquainted with the signal nor the Plan’s extending further than the Refugee Post—that a trusty observing Officer, should dress himself in soldier Cloathing & desert from the post at the Block House at Dobbs’s ferry to the Refugees about ten Day’s or a fortnight before the Plan is to be executed—Ward must take this Person as a servant, which if his designs are what he expresses He will not hesitate in doing—as Ward proposes to board the ship in Person this officer will attend him & after they are in full Possession inform him that this signal is to be made for two boats crews to come on board for the purpose of defending and navigating the ship up the River—Should the Whole of the Plan from Some unforeseen event fail there can be no hazard with respect to the troops for the Jersey & York Brigades will be sufficient to secure their marching to Tapan or the Block House  where the troops from the boats may land and in conjunction march to Kings ferry or move by Water as Circumstances may at the Period seem most adviseable.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Tallmadge, 27 November 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters Novr 27th 1782

                  Yours of the 25th with its enclosures came safe by the Dragoons yesterday; but I had occasion to delay writing until this Morning, which will account for their not returning so soon as you expected.
                  I very much approve the plan you suggest, but cannot agree with you respecting the time—I should think it ought to be, at the instant when the Troops on the Lines are relieved; you may make your Calculations accordingly; and two Companies of Lt Infantry will in that case be sent to Bedford—But as I am not certain when the relief will be ordered, you will do nothing final untill you hear farther from me.
                  Do not fail to accomplish what I desired. I am, with great regard Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  The Relief will not be postponed beyond the 8th or 9th of Decr.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Tupper, 27 November 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Tupper, Benjamin

                     Sir
                     Head Qurs Novr 27th 1782

                  You are to proceed according to the General Order of the day with your Regiment to Verplanks Point, in order to assist in repairg the Work at that place—You will take your Tents with you, and in the first place attend to the comfort and conveniency of your Men by building Chimneys to the Tents—You will take your directions, as to the repair of the Works, from Major Rochefontaine the Acting Engineer—When you are releived, which will be in one Week, you will leave your Tents standing for the releiving Regt—The Huts will be ready for the Men when they return—The Qr Mr General will furnish the necessary Tools.  I am Sir Yr most obt and hble servt.


Title: To George Washington from Abel Weyman, 27 November 1782
From: Weyman, Abel
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Wyoming 27th Novr 1782

                  I am under the Necessity of sending an Express, To inform Your Excellency of the distressed Situation of the Troops, at this Garrison, being in a Manner destitute of all kind of Cloathing, for the Approaching Season: and have for these Three Months past, been much Neglected for the want of Provision, Thro’ the negligence of Col. Cooke, who was Authorized for that purpose.  as his Time expired the 1st of Novr and no Supplies since and it will be impossible for the Inhabitants to Supply us thru the Winter and in a very short Time none can be brot up the River; And must inevitably Suffer: If some Person is not Appointed to furnish us soon.  The Soldiery begin to grow sickly we have neither Medicine not a Surgeon to releave them; After repeated Application to the different Boards have receivd no Supplies; and pray your Excellency would consider our Situation.  I am with Esteem Your Excellencies most Obedt Humbe Servt

                     Abel Weyman Capt. Comd.


Title: General Orders, 28 November 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Newburgh Thursday Novr 28th 1782
                     Parole Kellington
                     Countersigns Litchfield,
                  Marblehead
                  For the day tomorrow Lt Colo. CochranMajor WaitFor duty tomorrow1st Massachusetts regiment


Title: To George Washington from William Shepard, 28 November 1782
From: Shepard, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                      Novr 28th 1782

                  I percieve by the late resolve of Congress, and by your Excellency’s orders of yesterday, that the senior Officers although arranged to continue in service, have leave to retire, if the reasons offered by them are approved by your Excellency.
                  It has ever been my intention to continue in service till the close of the war.  The only reason I have to alter this intention is the hard treatment I have received from the Honorable Congress, in depriving me of that right of promotion to which I think myself justly intitled.  Your Excellency well knows that several Officers in the southern States who were junior to me, have been promoted; some of whom were only Majors & Captains when I commanded a Regiment.  This I patiently put up with, as I supposed that Congress would do me equal justice whenever a vacancy should happen for me in the Massachusetts line. but I find myself disappointed.
                  I flatter myself that this reason will appear sufficient to your Excellency to grant me leave to retire from service on the principles which Congress have established.
                  I am persuaded your Excellency would entertain a despicaple opinion of any Officer who should wish to continue in service when placed in a situation similar to mine.  I have the honor to be your Excellencys most obedt & most hume Servt

                     Wm Shepard Colo.
                     4th Massts Regt.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 28 November 1782
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Stanwich Novr 28th 1782

                  I have this Evening had the Honor to receive Your Excellency’s favor of Yesterday.  I am happy that any suggestions contained in my former Letter have met Your Excellency’s Approbation.
                  Since I was at Head Qrs I have paid very particular attention to Your Excellency’s Instructions, & have enclosed two Papers for Purusal.  I cannot but flatter myself that the Information is accurate, as several agree in the same account; & tho’ the Map may be imperfect, it may serve to give a sketch of the Enemie’s Position & Cantonments.
                  I have sent my Principal Agent into N.Y. again, whom I shall not see before Wednesday next, unless something important should intervene—If there is any thing omited in the enclosed Communications which Your Excellency would wish to have ascertained, I will most chearfully attend to it at or before the next Interview.
                  Tomorrow I propose to ride Eastward, to arrange some necessary matters, but shall return in a day or two.  Whenever the Relief may be ordered, I hope Your Excellency will not forget the small Party of Dragoons mentioned in my last letter, & as I shall have some public matters to adjust before I leave the Lines, I should be glad to be indulged with a little Previous notice, that I may attend to them accordingly.  I have the Honor to be, With the greatest Regard, & Esteem, Sir, Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

                     Benja. Tallmadge

                     P.S.  This will be forwarded by two Dragoons, tomorrow morning.

                Enclosure

                        Novr 27 1782

                     B.S. left N.Y. on the 25th inst. & reports that the British Fleet passed the Baron the 22d inst.  He supposes, from the best Accounts he could Collect that they consisted of 13 or 14 Sail of the line under Admiral Hood—No Troops were embarked or sailed with the fleet.  Major Bekwith told my Informant that the French Fleet had sail’d from Boston, & that the B. Fleet had gone out to intercept them.  Four Sail of the Line remained at N.Y. with Admiral Digby, & it is expected that one of them would sail for England soon with Genl Carleton.  About 40 Sail of Transports (with 2 from Cork) lately arrived at N.Y. from Quebeck.  They are now repairing for service.  The whole number of Transports now at N.Y. amot to about 100 Sail.
                     A Packet with very important Dispatches is hourly expected at N. York.
                     Gibralter is most undoubtedly taken.
                     The Cantonments of the Enemy on York & Staten Islands is as follows viz.
                     The 40th & 42d British, & the Jersey Battalions are on Staten Island.
                     At & about the City ly the 37th British Regt Robinson’s Corps & five Hessian Regiments viz. The Regt Donop—Hesse Hannau—Prince Carle Light Regt & Young Losburgh—Those Corps do duty in Town, & the Hessian Grenadiers keep Guard on the North & East Rivers as high up as the 5 Mile Store.
                     The 54th Regt is quartered in the Barracks on each side the Road at McGowen’s Pass.  five Companies of the 57th Regt by in the West Barracks (so Called) between McGowen’s Pass & the North River, & the other four Companies of the 57th Regt lie in a Barrack in rear of the Brick House, below the White House.
                     One Troop of Dragoons by at Haerlem & do duty on the Advanced Posts.
                     The Advanced Troops Composing the Garrisons at Fort Kniphausen, Laurel Hill, the Redoubts in the Parallel of the Grand Barrier, & all the small forts & Redoubts advanced, are Composed of the 38th Regt, about 400 strong, & nine Companies of Grenadiers of near 90 Men apiece—The whole making about 1200 Men.  My Informant observes that one of those Companies belongs to the 33d one to the 64th & one to the 70th Regt.  These Troops lie in Barracks at & about Fort Kniphausen, & in the Huts in the Rear of Laurel hill fort, as in the Map.  In all the advanced Works are Barracks or huts, & the Guards assigned to them ly in the Works.
                     The Communication between Haerlem & Morrisiana is kept up by a large flat boat—That with No. 8 is a proper rope ferry where a large flat boat plies constantly.  At Kingsbridge the boards or Planks, are pulled up every night, but at low Water, Troops can ford it a few Yards west of the Bridge—No Patrolls are advanced over Kingsbridge.
                     My Informant visited all the Posts on York Island, & observes that No. 8 is nearly a Circular Piece of Work, with a Common Wall, a Ditch & a Picket fastened in the Wall about two feet below the Top, & the Points a little Elevated.  The Guard is 1. Capt. 2 Subs. 3 Serjts & 50 Rank & file—There are also a Corpl & 6 Matrosses with 3 Pieces of Cannon in the fort—Laurel hill looks directly into No. 8.
                     The little block house near Kingsbridge has a Serjt & 10 men but no Cannon in it.

                        Prince Charles, & Fort Spikendevil have a Subaltern & about 20 Men a piece; They are also constructed much after the Plan of No. 8 & have two or three Pieces of Cannon.
                     Fort Tryon on the left of the Barrier or Stockade, as well as all the small Redoubts in that Line have Guns in them, but in rear they are open or rather not strong.  In front this whole wall is deemed very strong.  My Informant does not think that laurel hill is very strong in rear & by no means so difficult of Access in that way as Fort Knipthausen.
                     There are no Guards or Patrolls on the Banks of the North River from Fort Kniphausen down to the Hessian Grenadier Guards, near the 5 mile stone.  Perhaps there may be a small Guard west of the Barracks near McGowens Pass.
                     By all the Persons who have been among the Enemy, they appear to be much off their Guard.
                     Genl Fox quarters at the blue hill Tavern, & Genl Mosgrove at the White house. There are six or seven Stores of Goods on the road near the blue Bell & a little Village of new buildings.  S.B. supposes the Amot of Goods in these Stores may be about 30 or £40,000—From these they trade largely with the Country.  All the out posts are relieved every Week.
                     My Informants do not suppose that the Guards are strong either in Fort Kniphausen or Laurel hill, but they think near 150 men may ly in the former, & about one Company in the latter.  All the Redoubts in the Line of the Barriers, are rather alarm Posts, than Places for Guards.

                        map of New York Island


Title: General Orders, 29 November 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Newburgh Friday Novr 29th 1782
                     Parole Newhaven
                     Countersigns Ormond,
                  Petersborough
                  For the day tomorrow Lieutenant Colonel CummingsLt Col. MaxwellFor duty tomorrowthe 7th Massachusetts regiment.
                  The honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following resolve.
                  By the United States in Congress assembled
                  Novr 20th 1782
                  Resolved That Commissions issue on promotions properly certified for all regimental officers entitled to fill vacancies happening before the 1st day of January next, excepting vacancies occasioned by senior officers retiring agreably to the resolve of the 19th instant any resolution of Congress to the contrary hereof notwithstanding.
                  By a General courtmartial held in Lancaster the first of November last, of which Colonel Richard Butler was president, Serjeant Louis Soss of General Hazens regiment was tried "for drawing his Sword on Lieutt Sullivan of the 4th regiment of Light Dragoons and for attempting to kill him when in the execution of his duty" found guilty of the charge, being a breach of the 5th article Section 2d of the rules and articles of war & sentenced to be reduced to a private Sentinel & receive one hundred lashes on his bare back.
                  The Commander in chief approves the Sentence but in consideration of all circumstances is pleased to remit the corporal punishment.


Title: To George Washington from Moses Hazen, 29 November 1782
From: Hazen, Moses
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Pompton 29th Novr 1782.

                  It is my Duty to acquaint your Excellency that the Regiment under my Command has not been mustered or inspected since the 13th of April last; which is a Circumstance that I should have mentioned sooner had not Col. Stewart assured me that he would be with the Regiment by the 24th Instant; five Days having elapsed, I am apprehensive that the State of his Health, or perhaps some other Duty has and may still prevent his coming here to muster and inspect the Regiment.  I have the Honour to be, your Excellency’s most obedient And very humble Servant

                     Moses Hazen
                     Brigr Genl


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 29 November 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Roxbury November 29th 1782

                  A Cartel has inst. arrived at Boston from Quebec and has brought a number of American prisoners, there are among them several Officers and about twenty soldiers inlisted to serve during the war, I have directed Lieut. Colonel Popkin to forward the latter on to the Army to recieve your Excellencys further orders, they principally belong to Connecticut and New York, they are in extreme want of a pair of shoes cash, and without them cannot proceed on their march, I am in hopes the shoes will be in some way obtained—As the Officers I have seen are under parole, I have not been able to get any intelligence of consequence from them.
                  A Brig. has lately arrived from Spain, the master reports that the British Fleet had releived Gibralter and returned, that Several of the Spanish floating Batteries (or Gun Boats) had been destroyed by hot shot from the enemies Batterries before the arrival of the British Fleet and many men lost in them, That Our Spanish man of war of 74 Guns was taken by the Enemy, and a nother ran on shore, The Brig. passed through the combined Fleet going into the Bay of Cadiz as she came out, this news is probably true the misfortunes of our friends are to be lamented, but I hope his Catholic Majesty will now give up his long persisted in project, of reducing a post, where there has scarcely been a shadow of success, and yet the whole Spanish force both land and naval, have been constantly employed in the fruitless attempt, and without making any considerable diversion of the force of Britain—Had the force of Spain been employed with that of France against the Common enemy in those places Vulnerable, great advantage might have arrived to the common cause, and Gibralter might have been conquered in a nother quarter.
                  The Marquiss de Vaudreuils Squadron are nearly fitted for Sea, except the Ship at Portsmouth which was injured by the Lightning, The Artillery of the French Army has been embarked on Board the Fleet some Days, and the army is to march from Providence for Boston on Sunday morning next, Should any thing of consequence transpire while I am in this quarter, both inclination and duty will prompt me to give your Excellency the earliest intimations of it.  I have the honor to be with the greatest respect and warmest attachment your Excellencys most Obedient Servant

                     W. Heath

                     P.S. Daniel Parker Esqr. of this state, with some other Gentlemen, have contracted to supply the army with provisions, the next year, I have been many years acquainted with Mr Parker, and from his disposition, abilities and attention, I think the army may promise themselves every thing they can reasonably wish under the contract.

                     W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Elisha Sheldon, 29 November 1782
From: Sheldon, Elisha
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Stanwich Novr 29th 1782

                  Your Excellencys favor of the 27th Instant I recd last evening.
                  Since my last Letter to your Excellency I have recd the following Intelligence. (viz.) That on the 22nd Instant a Fleet consisting of thirteen sail of the Line under the Command of Admiral Hood, sailed from New York supposed for the Westindies, they Had no Troops on Board.
                  The fleet of 40 sail mentioned in my last to be from Cork were from Hallifax & Quebeck, and but 2 sail from Crork.
                  Four sail of the Line and about 100 Transports are now at New York.  The 37 Regt Robinsons Corps and five Hessian Regiments lie in Town.  The 5th Regt & 5 Companies of the 57 at McGowens pass, four Companies of the 57 Regt lie in Barracks about 1/4 of a mile below Morriss House.  The 38 Regt and 9 Companies next and near Fort Washington, amounting to about 1200 men The same Troops remain on Staten Island as mentioned in my last—on Saturday the 23d Instant the heavy Artillery was moved from the British Park into the Grand Battery.
                  I would observe to Your Excellency that some of my Teams being worn down and the scarcity of Forage has Reduc’d many of my Horses, which under present Circumstances I find very Difficult to remedy—I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect Sir Your Excellencys most obet and most Humbe servt

                     Elisha Sheldon Col. 2d Rgt L.D.


Title: From George Washington to William Shepard, 29 November 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Shepard, William

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters Newburgh Novr 29th 1782

                  I have received your Letter of the 28th & in reply to the  request contained in it, I have to observe; that, as you have been so fully & repeatedly made acquainted with my sentiments respecting your leaving the Service, I shall not attempt to interpose any farther in the Matter and as you seem to have formed your resolution upon long & mature consideration, I do acquiesce in your retiring from the Army upon the principles of the Resolution of Congress of the 19th instant.
                  It only remains for me then, to desire, in case any thing new should turn up to accasion an altiration of prospects or sentiments, that you will not impute the dissolution of your connection with the Army, to any agency of mine; but on the contrary recollecting what I have said & written on the subject, you will do me the justice to believe, that having ever considered you as a valuable Officer, I now part with you, with much regret, being with sentiments of regard & esteem Sir Your Most Obedt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from William Stephens Smith, 29 November 1782
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Dobbs’s ferry Novr 29th 1782

                  Inclosed, I have the honor of transmitting flagg orders, from Rear Admiral Digby, & a Certificate, respecting a James Braxter—The flagg arrived here yesterday Evening, The conduct of Richard Gardner Commander, is mark’d with such striking Lines of impropriety, that I have placed an officer & a Guard on board, & shall detain her untill your Excellency’s Pleasure is known—In the first place he has gone contrary to his orders, by landing several Captains of vessels & others 6 or 8 miles below the post he was order’d to & desired them to proceed by land, with these were two or three persons not known to the Captains as prisoners, who were put in the Boat with them, these persons have gone into the Country, & I can gain no further information respecting them—James Baxter is not a prisoner, nor included in the flagg orders, his person was described to me last night, & information lodged by a person of veracity, that he saw Baxter go on board the flagg, when she lay at New York in Woeman’s Cloaths—enter the Cabin where the master was, & in 1/2 an hour appeared on deck in the dress he has at present on.  I had him apprehended this morning brought on shore & confined—he appear’d much frighted & say’s he came out to obtain my permission to pass to New London, where he is to meet two of his Comrades, with his Chest of tools &c. at which place he intends following his business—he is a Carpenter by trade—This Gardner, I am informed by Capt. Pray, has been guilty of some impropriety When commanding flaggs before—I shall expect to receive your Excellency’s orders upon the subject, & hope my Conduct may meet with your approbation.
                  The prisoners, viz. the Captains, say that Gibralter is certainly taken, & they are of opinion that unless something favourable arrives from the west Indies, they will sail for it before the first of January.  I am Your Excellency’s most obedt Humble Servt

                     W.S. Smith Lt Colo.


Title: To George Washington from Louis-Philippe de Rigaud, marquis de Vaudreuil, 29 November 1782
From: Vaudreuil, Louis-Philippe de Rigaud, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                        Monsieur
                        Boston le 29 9bre November 1782

                     Je reçois a l’instant la lettre que Votre Excellence m’a fait l’honneur de m’ecrire, ainsi que les deux gazettes de Newyork et de Philadelphjie qui m’ont été envoyées par M. le Cte de Rochambeau.  J’aurai soin de faire partie pour france les quatre lettres qui étoient jointes a votre dépêche et je les adresserai sous le couvert du Ministre de la Marine a qui je les recommanderai.
                     Un Brieg Ameriquain parti de Cadiz le 28 8bre et arrivé a Portsmouth le 24 de ce mois rapporte que l’escadre Angloise de 32 Vaisseaux avoit pénétré dans la rade de Gibraltar par un Coup de vent de S.O. qui en avoit designé l’armée combinée; que le Vau Espagnol le San Miguel avoit été pris, qu’un autre s’étoit perdu sur la Côte, que les Batteries flottantes avoient été incendiés par les boulets rouges de la Place, que les troupes francoises qui étoient devant Gibraltar étoient déjà rendues à  Cadiz et que la flotte combinée à travers de laquelle il a passé rentrois dans ce port le jour de son Départ.
                     Ces nouvelles ne sont point agreables, mais elles nous laissent la perspective de croire que la Cour d’Espagne va serieusement s’occuper d’agir efficacement contre l’ennemi commun, si elle fait lever le siege de Gibraltar.  J’ai l’honneur d’être avec les sentimens les plus respectueux De Votre excellence Le très humble et très obeissant serviteur

                        Le Mis de Vaudreuil

                        P.S.  Si vous avez d’autres lettres a envoyer en Europe la fregate ne partira que vers le 12 Xbre.

                  TranslationSir,Boston 29 Novre 82
                     I have this moment reced the Letter your Excellency did me the honor to write me with the two Gazettes of N. York and Philadelphia which were sent me by Count Rochambeau—I will take care of the Letters annexed for france & will recommend them to the care of the Minister of Marine.
                     An American Brig. which left Cadiz the 28. Octr & arrived at Portsmouth the 24 Inst. reports that the English Squadron of 32 Ships had penetrated into the Road of Gibralter by favor of a Gale from the S.W. which drove off the combined fleets—that the Spanish Vessell the San Miguel was taken & another Spanish Ship ran ashore that the floating Batteries were burnt by red hot balls from the Garrison—that the french Troops which were before Gibralter had returned to Cadiz & that the Combined fleet had also gone to Cadiz—he sailed thro the fleet as they were going in.
                     This news is not very agreeable but we may hope that the Court of Spain if they raise the Seige will occupy themselves seriously to act with efficacy against the common Enemy.  I have &c.

                        Le Ms de Vaudreuil

                        If you have any other letters to send to Europe the frigate will not go till towards the 12th Decr.


Title: To George Washington from Marinus Willett, 29 November 1782
From: Willett, Marinus
To: Washington, George

                     Sir.
                     Albany 29th November 1782

                  I have thought much about your Excellencies plan since I left you, and the more I think of it the more I like it.  Perhaps no design ever bid fairer to succeed.  Indeed from every circumstance it appears to me that without some very crass Intervention it must terminate successfully—For my own part I can only assure your Excellency that I shall be supreemly happy in the execution of a Scheme with such promising advantage, and that nothing which can be done by me shall be wanting to give it a happy accomplishment—The prospect is truly pleasing and I find myself possessed of as much anxiety as is necessary to see it brought to a desirable finish.
                  Your Excellencies observation of secresy being an essential Ingredient in the performance of this business makes the first and most Important article, And your remark of the danger of having even a third person let into the knowledge of it shews how much value ought to be set on this Arcanum of the business—This being the case all the measures proper to be taken should be formed in such a way as will best tend to keep the design concealed—And this is the work that commands a considerable proportion of my thoughts.  In making the necessary preparations so as to prevent Susspicion of the design particular attention is necessary, and in order to direct the preparation, the necessary materials must be enquiered after.  And here I beg leave to mention to your excellency such as appear to me.  I should suppose five hundred men proper to be employed on this service.  The men ought to be well Clothed as well as accoutered.  If it should be agreeable to your Excellency I could wish one half of the men were taken from our state troops and the other half from such other Corps as your excellency may choose to direct.  But our troops are not yet Clothed.  Most of the men are without a Single Shirt or a Coat.  I am therefore compeled most earnestly to wish that their Clothing may be forwarded as soon as possible for without Clothing it will not be possible for them to participate in the business which to be deprived of would be cause of extreem regret.  If they could be procured I should think it would be well for every man who may go on this service to have A Coat, a Vest a pair of Woolen overhalls or pair of Stockings, a Shirt, a Blanket, a Woolen Cap a pair of Mittens And in the place of the Common Shoes, It would be best for them to have either Indian or Canadian Shoes and Socks; These Shoes and Socks cannot Cost as much as the Common Shoes and are much better for a Cold Country; Besides were Snow Shoes are used the Common Shoe will not do—And I think if they could be procured it would be well for every man to have a pair of Snow Shoes, For notwithstanding the March is to be performed in Slays something may turn up to make it necessary to maneuver the whole party on foot in which case Snow Shoes would be essential. The cost of Snow-Shoes can be but trifling especially if we should procure the hides and get the Indians to make them—At any rate some Snow–Shoes must be provoided for the troops in this Quarter, As it is not possible to Keep our Scouts without them—And should Your excellencies plan be carried into execution; it would be of great service to send a party of smart men on Snow-Shoes a day before hand to trace the Path—And the marching a few men on snow–shoes is the best way that I know of to break a road for Slays were the Snow is deep. Now Sir permit me to remind you that such of these things as your Excellency may Join with me in conceiving ought to be procured it will be necessary for your Excellency to give directions about in such a way as you may conceive best Calculated to conceal the design.
                  Whether it would be proper to direct the Quarter Master to assist in procuring Slays, or whether this part of the business may not be left with me I beg to submit to Your Excellencies Consideration?  If the Quarter Master should receive orders to perform this business any time before hand The door of discovery will be open—I have thought whether it may not do to have the troops when they become detached for the expedition ordered to different places (in Companies) along the Mohawk river; And having previously procured the names of such persons as are known to have good horses and Slays, let each officer Commanding a Company be furnished with the names of such persons whose Slays are intended to transport his Company with orders to take those Slays with a Driver to each and as many days forage as may be thought necessary And repair to the German flatts at which place it would perhaps be best to have the whole Detachment Victualed that being our advanced post and will be most convenient for a general Rendezvous.  These orders may be given to each officer Commanding a Company seperatly, And executed in such a way as will not disscover the Strength of the party (untill they arrive at the flatts, which place is so advanced and where there is not perhaps a single Ferry. And if there was the march from thence ought to be so rapid as not to leave it in the powers of intelligence geting ahead of the party), And the design may be kept out of sight by giving out to the officers Commanding Companies respectively that they are going to Fort Schuyler to bring down Stores that were left at that place when it was Evacuated.  And it is a truth prety well known that when that place was abandoned there were a number of Shot left in the woods about a mile or two below the Fort.
                  Towards the last of January will be a good time I humbly conceive to carry your excellencies plan into execution and not before, as the Ice is hardly ever good previous to that time. I mention this that Your Excellency may not be at a loss about the proper time in which the Materials ought to be furnished—They having ladders prepaired to take along, without affording room for Suspicion appears to be attended with as much difficulty and more, than any other articles necessary on this occasion.  I have the honor to be with sentiments of the Greatest respect and Esteem Your Excellencies most obedient and very humble Servt

                     Marinus Willett

                     P.S.  In two days I purpose to go to Fort Renselear were I shall be able to ascertain the length the Ladders should be.  And determine which will be the best rout.  These things I shall be carfull in doing in such Cautious way as not to open way for Suspicion.


Title: General Orders, 30 November 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Newburgh Saturday Novr 30th 1782
                     Parole Queen hope,
                     Countersigns Richmond,
                  Sheffield
                  For the day tomorrow Major LansdaleMajor ReadingFor duty tomorrowthe 4th Massachusetts regiment.


Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 30 November 1782
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Philadelphia 30th November 1782

                  I had the honor of writing your Excellency by the last Post, since which a Captain Reed, late of one of our Frigates, arrived from Charles-Town, where he had been carried a Prisoner.  He informs me that he left that Town on the 4th instant.  Two divisions of Transports had sailed, one for St Augustine, the other for Halifax, with Stores and foreign Troops—That every thing looked like a speedy evacuation of the Town.  All their Artillery, except three or four, were gone and on board—The baggage of the Officers all packed and ready for embarkation—All sales forbid and the ships shut up—The transports were expected every moment from Augustine, which were to take off the last division.  The Citizens of Carolina were admitted to come into the Town with flags and to search the Transports and other vessels for their Negroes.  The Officers did very little duty, there being only a small Guard kept up at the Gates.  The Captain of the Frigate in the harbour informed Capt. Reed, that they were to be all gone by the 25th instant.
                  Thus we are yet in uncertainty as to the final evacuation of the City, tho’ under the highest probable expectation of that event.  A Frigate arrived in the harbour from New-York just before Capt. Reed left it.  There is an appearance of a Convention or some Agreement between Genl Greene and the enemy, as they behaved generally as in a State of perfect security, tho’ without being in any apparent state of defence.  This is confirmed by a private letter, mentioning that Governor Matthews had summoned his Assembly to meet in Charles-Town in January next.
                  I give your Excellency this information just as I received it.  I have the honor to be, with the greatest esteem and respect, Your Excellency’s Obedient & very humb. Servant

                     Elias Boudinot


Title: To George Washington from Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 30 November 1782
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                     Philadelphia Nov. 30. 1782.

                  The Minister of France presents his respectful compliments to his Excellency General Washington, and begs to be so kind as to order the inclosed letters to be forwarded as fast as possible.


Title: To George Washington from Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 30 November 1782
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                        Monsieur
                        Philadelphie le 30. 9bre November 1782.

                     J’ai reçu les lettres dont Votre Excellence m’a honnoré le 13. le 19. et le 22. de ce mois.  Je fais passer à M. le Comte de Vergennes celle que Vous m’avés addressée pour lui.  Il me paroit d’après les raports qui viennent des Jerseys que les soins de la legislature et la vigilance du corps executif exités par Vous ont dejà produit d’heureux effects et que les subsistances arrivent à Newyorck plus difficilement qu’auparavant.  Je connois en effet l’impossibilité d’empêcher ce commerce par le moyen de gardes tirées de Votre armée; mais en tenant en activité le Zêle des bons citoyens je suis persuadé qu’on mettra des bornes à cette pratique nuisible aux Etas unis autant qu’à leur allié.
                     Je suis bien reconnoissant de la bonté que Vous avés de me faire part de ce qui je passe relativement aux flottes ou Escadres Angloises dans Newyorck.  Je supplie Votre Excellence de vouloir bien continuer à me faire parvenir les avis de cette nature même après le depart de M. le Mis Vaudreuil parcequ’en les transmettant au Ministre du departement de la Marine je le mets en état de mieux juger des mesures qu’il voit prendre par la connoissance des forces et des mouvements de l’Ennemi sur ces cotes.  J’ai l’honneur d’étre avec un respectueux et inviolable attachement Monsieur De Votre Excellence le très humble et très obeissant servt

                        Le chv. de la luzerne

                  Translation
                     SirPhiladelphia 20 Novr 82I have reced the Letters your Excellency honored me with the 13. 19 & 22 of this month and have forwarded your Letter for the Count de Vergennes—from the reports I have from the Jerseys it appears that the care of the Legislature and the Vigilance you have excited in the Executive has produced happy effects in stopping the facility with which supplies were sent to New York—I well know the impossibility of preventing that commerce by means of Military Guards but in putting the Zeal of the good Citizens in activity I am persuaded some bounds may be put to a practice so destructive to the Interests of the United States as well as of her Allies.
                     I am under great obligations to your Excellency for communicating to me what has passed relative to the fleets of the Enemy at New York I beg you to continue this communication even after Mr de Vaudreuille has departed, for by transmitting these accounts to the Minister of Marine I enable him to judge better of the measures he has to take knowing the force & movements of the Enemy on these Coasts—I have the honor to be &c.


Title: To George Washington from Lewis Richard Morris, 30 November 1782
From: Morris, Lewis Richard
To: Washington, George

                     Philadelphia 30th November 1782.

                  Earnestly desireous to approve myself deserving of your Excellency’s indulgence, of which I shall ever retain the most grateful remembrance, and solicitous to preserve the esteem of my Brother Officers, whose friendly acquiescence in my absence demands my best acknowledgements—I beg leave to entreat your Excellency’s belief that I regret exceedingly the necessity, which compells me to request your acceptance of my resignation.
                  Presuming on the prospect of active service last Campaign, I was unwilling to resign my Commission while there was any probability of the Army operating—when I intended to have joined my Regiment—I therefore profited of your Excellency’s indulgence—but deeming a request for farther leave of absence improper—I am constrained by various causes reluctantly to relinquish my military pursuits.The change which is about to take place in the department for Foreign Affairs by Mr Livingston’s retiring, renders my stay in this City still more requisite—This denies me the honor of waiting on your Excellency, personally to assure you of the great Respect and Esteem with which I am, Sir your most obedt humble servt

                     L.R. Morris


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 30 November 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                  Sir,

                     Office of Finance 30th November 1782

                  I do myself the Honor to enclose to your Excellency the Copy of a Letter addressed to me on the twenty second Instant as Agent of Marine, by the Commissary of Marine Prisoners, Major Turner.  From this Letter two Points arise for Consideration.  1st whether it would be prudent to send in a very large Quantity of Wood, apply a Part to the Comfort of our Prisoners, and the Remainder to be sold for the Purpose of procuring Cloathing &c.  And 2dly whether it would be prudent to agree with the Enemy on a Tariff of Money for the Exchange of Seamen.  On these Points I wish to have your Sentiments fully.  I would observe however that it is my own Opinion even if such Measures should be adopted in any Degree that it be under considerable Limitations.  Thus if Wood be sent in, I think it should be purchased to the Eastward and sent in by Flag Vessels under proper Precautions to prevent any illicit Commerce, and that the Quantity should be such as meerly to reimburse by the Sales of it the Cost and charges and to place the Sums in New York which may be necessary to purchase the Cloathing and Necessaries for the Prisoners, and to redeem them, should the second Point be adopted.  In like Manner if that Point be adopted, that it should be in such cautious Manner as to exclude the Idea of a similar Tariff for Land Prisoners.  I have the Honor to be Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

                     Robt Morris

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        Philadelphia November 22 1782

                     Since our conversation last Saturday, on the Means proper to be adopted for the Relief of Marine Prisoners I have fully resolved in my Mind every Circumstance, within my Recollection, in any wise connected with the Subject.  And, among the Points considered, may I presume here to touch upon the Mode of furnishing Fuel for the Prison Ships at New York—a Mode which, as it partly obtained your Approbation, I am led, with the more Diffidence, to observe has certain Objectives that may possibly colour with Propriety my Observations upon it.  The following State of Facts is, therefore, submitted.
                     Last Winter, it seems, the Enemy were desirous of affording, at their own Expence, a Supply of Fuel to the Prison Ships; but the great Scarcity of Wood about the City (and which has, since that Period, considerably increased) required it should be sought for at some Distance: They, therefore, proposed to take the necessary Quantity from the Upper Ends of Long Island, where Wood is both plentiful and cheap, and accordingly demanded of us a Passport for a Vessel to transport it.  The Demand, tho not refused, was never complied with.
                     The Enemy continue to hold out an Idea similar to the foregoing, but evidently, more advantageous to us, as appears by repeated Messages from their Commissary General of Naval Prisoners.  They propose with our Permission to get Wood upon the Banks of the North River, at their own Expence, which they will carry into New York, and cause to be delivered to an Agent to be appointed by us.
                        He is to have the Liberty of residing in the City, to see the Fuel put on Board of the Prison Ships, to sell, to the best Advantage, any Quantity above what may be necessary for the actual Consumption of the Prisoners, and to apply the Proceeds in the Purchase of Clothing and other Necessaries for the immediate Use of the Prisoners.  Thus favor the Enemy.
                     On our Part it has been urged that a Compliance with the Offer, so far as relates to the introducing the Enemy’s Wood Cutters within our Lines, would lay the Country open to an illicit Trade.  But I answer, that, under the Apprehension of such a Consequence, we ourselves hold the Preventive, either by placing a trusty Guard, or by engaging People of our own to cut the Fuel.  To adopt the latter would be in incurring real Expence, to guard against what on a farther Examination might appear to be imaginary, or, at most, a partial temporary Evil—A Disadvantage bearing us Proportions, perhaps, to the Advantage of a considerable Saving to the Public. Under the immediate Execution of this, or a similar Plan, I look forward to the political Salvation of a large and useful Body of Subjects.  By the Plan here proposed the Expence of cutting Fuel while it does not touch our Finances, becomes a real Addition to the Load upon those of the Enemy, and American Prisoners are decently clad, and comfortably sheltered from the Rigours of an inclement Season, without Expence or Trouble to the Public.  These are weighty Objects.  But if, on the Contrary, we shall agree to cut Fuel, Sufficient only for the actual Consumption of the Prisoners (and that at our own Cost) an important Question arises—how are they to be cloathed?  The judicious Scheme in Agitation for the Relief of Seamen in Captivity cannot be digested, passed into a Law, and brought to operate with sufficient Effect, in the Course of the ensuing Winter—a Crisis, which demands our direct and serious Attention—as, without it, Numbers must perish.  Accumulated Hardships will bend Stubborn Virtue, and should the Survivors, forced under the Pressure and Anguish of Distress, seek Relief in the Service of the Enemy—his national Character would be tarnished, and our Enemy would derive a dangerous Acquisition of naval Strength.
                     These Reasons induce me to propose 1st That his Excellency the Commander in Chief be immediately consulted on the Expediency of sending Wood into New York this Winter, on the Terms, and for the Purposes mentioned; and if, from the Complexion of Things, there should appear to be no Impropriety in that Measure.
                     2d That the General be requested to point out the Ground for the Wood Cutters, taken from the Enemy; or rather, to direct their Limits.
                     3d That the Offer of the Enemy, herein before particularized be accepted in it’s full Extent.
                     With Respect to a Plan for the general Liberation of Marine Prisoners on both Sides, I have thrown together a Few Propositions, which may serve as a Ground Work.  But, to raise the Superstructure, both Parties must be sincerely disposed to contribute their proper Share of Materials.  What these should be, I am too little of a political  to determine.  The Business of reconciling opposite Interests however proved difficult, and often inefficacious: For while the Propisitions of our party are received with Distrust by the other, a Coalition of Sentiment is hardly to be expected.  My Ideas, however, such as they are—I beg Leave to offer under the following Propositions.
                     1st  That all Persons, coming under the Description of Marine prisoners of War, take either Side. and remaining unexchanged to this Day, shall be liberated, in the fullest Meaning of the Word, before the

                         Day of

                         next.
                     2d  That, as the Number of Prisoners is greatly in Favor of the Enemy, they shall accept a Composition for the Balance, after the date (for Instance) of Forty Soldiers for each hundred of Seaman. Supposing the Balance to be fifteen hundred, six Hundred Soldiers are  made to release them.  But how far the Measure may be proper, at the present Juncture remains not for me to determine.  We may urge this Composition to the Enemy with the most Propriety, as almost every Marine Prisoner in their Hands was taken—not as the immediate Servant of the Public, but of Individuals only.  Yet should it be deemed inexpedient to give Soldiers for Sailors, in any Proportion, then I would propose
                     3d  That a Value be fixed on each Prisoner of War, according to his Rank, and paid by the Party from whom the Balance is due.  As the United States have a Considerable Claim upon the British in Specie, and Abatement of the Demand might be offered, as an Equivalent.  Possibly the Offer may induce their Acquiescence to the Demand which Policy forbids the actual Payment of it in Specie.  And those Prisoners who shall receive the Benefit of it (not being in public Employ) ought to reimburse the United States by certain Means to be adopted.  I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect Sir Your most obedient humble Servant
                     (Sign’d) George Turner
                        Commissry Marine Prisoners


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 30 November 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                  Sir

                     Office of Finance 30th November 1782

                  I omitted to acknowledge in the proper Time your Excellency’s Letter of the eighteenth of October last, enclosing a Letter to the Chevalier de la Luzerne on the Subject of Expence incurred at his Request.  Altho the Sum is not considerable, yet as it is among the Expences properly payable by the Court of France,I thought it better not to establish an improper Precedent, especially as our Circumstances do not admit of Expenditures other than what are indispensible.  I am Sir With great Respect Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

                     Robt Morris


Title: To George Washington from John Popkin, 30 November 1782
From: Popkin, John
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Boston 30th Novr 1782

                  In the Evening of the 28th Instant a Number of Prisoners landed from the Cartel Ship John from Quebec: among whom were about twenty five Continental Soldiers, as near as I could learn.  Inclos’d is a list of all the Names I have collected, and the different Corps to which they do, or did severally belong—By the inclos’d your Excellency will see that Eleven are ordered for Head Quarters.   Have the Honor to be your Excellency’s most obedt Humble Servant

                     John Popkin.


Title: To George Washington from John Pray, 30 November 1782
From: Pray, John
To: Washington, George

                     Sir.
                     Nyack Novr 30th 1782

                  I send with the bearer of this the mast of the Garland Man of War.  Who deserted from her the day before yesterday in York.  likewise yesterdays paper.  I am inform’d the fleet sailed last Saturday, and Wednesday last. a fleet of Transports arrived from England about 18. in number the most of them Empty.  I have the Honor to be with Every Sentiment of Respect and Esteem Your Excellencys most Obedient and most Humble Servt

                     Jno. Pray Capt.


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 30 November 1782
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Providence, 9ber November 30th 1782.

                  I send here inclosed to your Excellency some Letters which came to me by the Chevalier de La Luzerne, some of which are for you and family and I don’t know how they came to be sent to me.
                  I send to your Excellency Likewise an Extract of a Letter I have received from Mr De Vaudreuil, which gives very bad intelligence as to Gibraltar.
                  The first division of the french corps set off to morrow. The others will follow to imbark directly.
                  Tho We have no official Letters from General Greene the evacuation of Charlestown is proved to me in a sufficient manner, to allow me to put the orders of his Majesty in execution: add to that, the imbarkation which now takes place at New york of the whole or a great part of the British forces and your Excellency by all these circumstances combine together, may see the opening of the new plan of war projected by the British Government, and consequently, the reason of my conduct that I may, as soon as possible deliver my corps to the orders of our General Governors in our Colonies. I might wish they had sailed three weeks ago. I set off to morrow and if the snowy or very bad weather dont stop me, I expect to be at your Excellencys head quarters on the 7th or 8th Xber and I propose a great pleasure to myself to renew verbablly to your Excellency the assurance of the respect and personal attachment with which I am Sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient & humble servant

                     le Cte de Rochambeau

                Enclosure

                        Boston 9ber November 28 1782

                     an American Brigg sailed from Cadiz, on the 28th 8ber arrived at Portsmouth three days ago, says that the English fleet composed of 32. men of war had penetrated in the road of Gibraltar, by a Gale from the S.W. which had drove off the combined fleet, a spanish Ship, the san Miguel has been taken and another is gone ashore, The floating batteries have been set on fire.  The Count d’Artois had gone to Cadiz with the french troops: that Brig had past thro’ the combined fleet which was going into Cadiz, on the day of its departare.


Title: To George Washington from William Shepard, 30 November 1782
From: Shepard, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Camp near new Windsor Novr 30 1782

                  I Have recived your Excellencys Letter of yesterday in answer to mine of the 28th Instant granting me permission to retire from the army upon the Permission of the Resolution of Congress of the 19th Instant.
                  At the same time that under my Circumstances your Excellency may rest assured that I Shall not impute my Dismission to your Agency: permit me to observe that it appears Clearly impossible that any Alteration of Prospects should ever induce me to lament that my Connection with the army is dissolved, circumstanced as I have been: and while I retain the least spark of that Honor, or any share of those Feelings which I deem essential to the Character of every military officer, not even the Fondness I have to serve my Country as a soldier or my Earnest wishes to assist in the Completion of that War which I engaged in with the first, will Ever induce me to Change my sentiments.  Before I part with your Excellency and the army, indulge me in presenting my sincerest Thanks for the very frindly line of Conduct you have been Pleased to exercise towards me sharing more than seven years service, and particularly for the very delicate and polite manner of granting my last Request. With the sincerest Wishes for Your Excellencys Prosperity and Happiness I have the Honor to be your most obedt and most humle Servt

                     Wm Shepard


Title: From George Washington to Louis-Philippe de Rigaud, marquis de Vaudreuil, 30 November 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Vaudreuil, Louis-Philippe de Rigaud, marquis de

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 30th Novemr 1782

                  By information thro’ several Channels and by the account of a very intelligent Deserter, the second Division of the British Fleet sailed on Friday the 22d instant.  It consisted of 13 ships of the Line.  The number of Frigates is not mentioned or whether any.  No Troops went with this division, neither do I hear any thing more of the embarkation mentioned in my last.
                  Admiral Digby remains at New York.  His Flag is on board the Centurion and it is said there are three other ships of the Line with him. But I do not think it can be possible as the whole Fleet at New York consisted of but 26 or 27 ships of Line.  It is also said that one of those ships is shortly to sail to England—I cannot account for my not hearing from General Forman, (upon the Coast of Monmouth) respecting the sailing of this last division of the Fleet, otherwise than by supposing that he has been under the necessity of being absent, to attend upon the Legislature of New Jersey.
                  We have yet no official accounts from Charles town, but I am led to beleive that the evacuation took place about the 10th of this Month.  I have the honor to be &c.


Title: To George Washington from Antoine-Charles du Houx, baron de Vioménil, 30 November 1782
From: Vioménil, Antoine-Charles du Houx, baron de
To: Washington, George

                        Monsieur
                        a Providence le 30 9bre November 1782

                     M. Le Comte de Rochambeau qui retourne En france m’ayant ordonné de faire Embarquer  Escadre de M. de Vaudreuil le Corps de Troupes quil avoit à ses ordres et de le Conduire aux Antilles, Je ne veux pas le laisser partir pour Newbury sans quil porte à votre Excellence un témoignage du regret que je prouve à m’eloigner de sa personne.  Si, comme je m’en flatte, elle a bien voulu démêler la vérité des sentimens qui m’y attachent, elle aura la bonté de croire que je ne lui fais pas un vain Compliment en l’assurant qu’il n’existe personne qui ait desiré avec autant de passion que moi de trouver des occasions de mériter plus particulièrement son Estime et son interêt; Cette profession de foi doit lui répondre de tous mes voeux pour sa conservation, pour sa gloire personnelle, et pour son bonheur de tous Ces instans, et me donne aussi la confiance qu’elle voudra bien recevoir avec bonté l’hommage du profond respect avec lequel jai lhonneur detre, de Votre Excellence Le três humble et três obeissant serviteur

                        Vioménil

                        dèsque nos troupes seront embarquer et qu’elles seront accommoder mettre à la voile Je m’impresserai J’en instruire votre Excellence.  Suit aux ce que me marque M. le Marquis de Vaudreuil par une Lettre datée du 29 que je viens de recevoir, la violence des vents quil  dans la rade ne lui permettront pas de faire continue le travail nécessaire a ses vaissaux il paroit croire quil ne partira pas aussitôt quil l’avoit imaginé.  Je Suplie votre Excellence de recevoir tous les remerciements que je lui don pour le Comte avec laquelle elle a bien voulu ordonner qu’il fut fornu des voitures et donné de l’argent pour le transport des domestiques et des malles qui vous ais ete rénvoyer de Newyork.  Je la suplie encore de vouloir bien y faire aller—La dépîche cijointe pour Amiral Digby a qui jai cru devoir faire quelques remerciemens sur lhonneteté de son procéder.

                  Translation
                     Providence 30 Nov 83The Count de Rochambeau who returns to France having orderd me to Embark the Troops which have been under his orders, and to Conduct them to the Antilles, I cannot let him set off for Newburg without a testimony of the regret I feel in being removed so far from your Person—If, as I flatter myself your Excellency is convinced of the sentiments which attach me to you—you will have the goodness to believe that it is not a vain Compliment to assure you there exists not a person who has more passionately wished for Occasions of meriting more particularly your interest and Esteem; after this profession you will believe how ardently I wish for your preservation and personal Glory and for the happiness of your Country—with the most profound respect I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obed. & most hum. Servant

                        Viomenil

                        P.S.  When the Troops are all embarked and ready to Sail I shall inform your Excellency—The Marquis in a Letter of the 29 which I have just reced says that the violence of the Winds in the Harbour having prevented the men from Working at the Vessells he will not be able to sail so soon as he had immagined.
                        I beg your Excellency to accept my thanks your goodness in furnishing Waggons & Money to send on the Servants & trunks which came from New York—I must again beg leave to trouble you to forward the inclosed to Admiral Digby whom it was necessary to thank for his politeness.


Title: To George Washington from Antoine-Charles du Houx, baron de Vioménil, 30 November 1782
From: Vioménil, Antoine-Charles du Houx, baron de
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Providence November th 1782

                  The immediate Departure of this Army for the West Indies Depriving me of the Satisfaction to go and pay My Last Duties to your Exelency I entreat you to be Convinc’d of My Regreet not to be any more under your Commands as well as of the assurance of My Sincere Gratefulness for all the Marks of goodness you have honoured me with whilst I have Stay’d in america the Remembrance of it shall remain in My memory as Long as that of the Talent and other Rares qualities that Distinguishes your Exelency, and that gives you for ever the most extensive rights on the veneration and on the love of Every French man; my heart is as Deeply and as Sincerely impress’d with these Sentiments as with the Respectful Sense with which I have the honour to be Your Exelency’s very humble and most obedient Servant

                     Le cte de viomenil


Title: General Orders, 1 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Sunday Decr 1st 1782
                            Parole Torrington
                            Countersigns Underwood,
                            Wakefield

                                For the day tomorrow

                                Colonel Greaton, Majr Fish.

                                For duty tomorrow

                                3d Massachusetts regiment.

                        Brigadier General Patterson is appointed to the command of the first Massachusetts brigade, the other
                            brigades in that line are to be commanded by the senior Colonel in each.


Title: To George Washington from Charles, marquis de La Rouërie Armand Tuffin, 1 December 1782
From: Armand Tuffin, Charles, marquis de La Rouërie
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            winshester december 1st 1782

                        I am this instant honored with your lettre of the 30th octo. last—when I joigned the remaindre of count
                            pulaski legion at wilmington in north carolina there was in the whole twenty two men commanded by capitain le brun
                            lieutenant verdier & cornet des conture—I find no others nor did ever any others come afterwards—your exellency is
                            sensible that the numbre of 22 men which did not make out one troop did not require more than the three officers above
                            mantioned which is the only numbre allowed to a full company—had capt. second been there at the time, I do not know what I
                            could have done further than to give the preference to the seignoirity of commission betwixt him & capt. le brun or to
                            have them to draw ballots if they had agreed—for the captains of my own corps having each of them their company it could
                            not be expected that congress and your exellency having ordered the incorporation as a favor done to me & the
                            officers of my corps of which you was pleased to approve the conduct & services—would take their men from them to
                            give them to others—but it was not the case, no such idea or arrangement where ever debated & my instructions were
                            to take officers of pulaski in proportion of their men.
                        I heard nothing of capt. second who by what I have been told is an officer brave & intelligent—he is wrong
                            to think that he would be the oldest—capts. Markley who has since resigned—capt. shaffner who is major—capt. sigougne who
                            has resigned & capt. bedhen were all older than himself, of course if the idea & experience I had of those
                            gentlemen merite made me desirous of seeing one of them & every one of them after the other promoted --capt. second by
                            comming in to the corps could not bring any impediment to my wishes—after I returned from france I received a lettrer from
                            capt. second to the following purpose—to tell him if he was an officer or not in the legion under my command—I saw him at
                            york & told him that I had allready received an over proportion of officers for the proportion of men—that the
                            arrangement had been made so long since that the number of officers were full at present & that the legion having
                            been formed intirely by new orders & on a new footing & did not conceive that he had under those circumstances any
                            claim to inter in to that corps—then he resumed a new plan of raising one or two independant company of horse &
                            made me confident of his project—he appeared so certain of his succés that I told him he should be well come to joign
                            & act with the legion with his troops—since every officers have endeavoured to raise their troops they have been
                            so succesfull that we are above 300—those officers have suffered as the rest of the army by a continual activity without
                            pay—on the other hand I have been told (which whoever I do not ascertain to be a fact) that capt. second had settled his
                            affairs with congressreceived a sum of money as a reward to his services & resigned his commission—then he went to
                            france—what company can he take the command of in the legion—without doubt of a seventh one if you order it to be raised
                            & still if capt. second had once quited the service it would be wrong the first lieutenant.
                        I am sorry to not receive any orders relative to our winter quarter—we are still encamped & suffer much
                            from the cold and badness of the weather as well as from the want of forage.
                        permit me to give your Exellency my respectful thanks for the assurance of your Esteem, which is the thing in
                            the world I am the most anxious to preserve. I have the honor to be with the highest respect, Your Exellency, Sir, the
                            most hble obdt St

                            Armand


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 1 December 1782
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Pokeepsie 1st December 1782.

                        I this Day accidentally received the Information which your Excellency will find inclosed—It is imperfect as
                            to some Points; but as it may be depended upon as far as it mentions Matters positively I thought it might not be improper
                            to transmit it specially as the Persons whom I have sent to the Island may possibly be prevented from returning as early
                            as could be wished ’tho by the last Accounts one of them had arived safely & was in a fair Way of accomplishing
                            his Business. I am Sir with the highest Esteem & Regard your Excellencys Most Obedt Servt

                            Geo: Clinton

                     Enclosure

                                    c.1 December 1782

                            A gentleman in whom the Governor places the fullest Confidence gives the following Information respecting
                                the Enemy’s Force on Long Island.
                            Colo. Thompson’s Horse stationed at Huntington; billetted on the Inhabitants—Does not know their
                                strength—The Inhabitants of that Vicinity are called upon to assist in making a Redoubt for their Defence on the Hill
                                at or near the Burial Place—He is not informed what Progress is made in this Work or whether it as yet begun.
                            Colo. De Wurmbs’ Regt Jaeger lay on the North Side West of Oyster Bay. The Colos. Quarters is at
                                Westbury.
                            The Regiment of Hesse Hanau is at Cow Neck they arrved there lately & it is
                                thought were sent to protect the Inhabitants agt the Depredations & Roberies of the Crews of the Whale
                                Boats—He believes they are to continue thro all Winter from the Quantities of Fuel and Forage providing for them
                                & from Common Reports respecting their Intentions—This Corps are chiefly New Recruits—are billetted on the
                                Inhabitants is about 470 strong—and as well as De Wurmbs Regiment seem strongly inclined to Desertion could they meet
                                with Opportunities to get off the Island—This Regiment is also under De Wurmbs Command—Their Provission comes from
                                Flushing but whether there are any Troops stationed there or at Jamaica the Informant does not know but is inclinable
                                to believe there may be.
                            The 17th Regiment British Dragoons he is informed & believes is to be stationed at Hampsted,
                                Forrages & Fuel are collecting for them at that Place by the Agents for the Purpose—They
                                take one half of all the Hay both Fresh & Salt from the Inhabitants in that Quarter About
                                20 only of this Corps had however arrived at Hampsted & these were mostly Officers Servants but this whole
                                Regt was daily expected.
                            The Informant some short Time before he left the Island (Tuesday last) heard that the greater Part of the
                                British Troops were on the West End of Long Island down towards the Narrows That they were to embark from thence on
                                Board the Fleet & were orderd there for that Purpose; but this he had too vague a manner to be relied
                            upon.


Title: To George Washington from Tobias Fernald, 1 December 1782
From: Fernald, Tobias
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Camp N. Winsor 1st Decembr 1782

                        I would beg the favor of your Excellency to give directions with respect to the arrangement or derangement of
                            Capt. Pilsbury in consequence of a letter which he wrote to Majr Spur, (late of the 6th Regiment to which Regiment Capt.
                            Pilsbury likewise belong’d) I am unhappy to Trouble your Excellency in the matter but it is an affair that my Colonel desired
                            me to attend to and which effects a good Officer in the 10th Regiment, and the matter is doubtful with many Gentlemen
                            whether Capt. Pilsbury may not legally be deranged in consequence of the aforementioned letter. your Excellency’s
                            directions I should think are necessary, (with submission) in the case as the letter was lodged with General Paterson and
                            considered by the Officers of the 6th Regiment as a proper Resignation—I have the honor to be with every sentiment of
                            esteem & Respect your Excellencys Most obedient servant

                            Tobias Fernald
                            Lt Col.


Title: From George Washington to William Stephens Smith, 1 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, William Stephens

                             1 December 1782

                        I have duly received your two favors of the 27th and 29th Ulto—I am very well satisfied with the account
                            contained in the former; and approve of your conduct respecting the detention of the Flag as reported in the latter, but
                            it will be best under our present circumstances, for you to send back Mr Gardener with his Flag Vessel, at the same time
                            making a representation of his conduct to the Commissy of naval Prisoners, & desiring that similar practices may
                            be prevented in future. As to Baxter you will keep him in close confinement, until you can send him, by some safe
                            conveyance to the provost Guard at West Point.
                        I should not advise you, for certain reasons which have occurred to me, to go by water to the place you
                            proposed—If you can without incurring suspicion make another reconnoitre by next Tuesday or Wednesday, I think it
                            will be of very good consequence.
                        When I have a direct & safe opportunity I will send you a few Guineas for the purchase of forage, as
                            I know the Forage Mastr has no public Money—In expectation of hearing from you again as soon as may be, I remain, with
                            great regard Dr Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 1 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                             1 December 1782

                        Know all men by these present, that I George Washington of the Commonwealth of Virginia, General &
                            Commander in Chief of the Forces of the United States of America am held & firmly bound unto His Excellency George
                            Clinton Esqr. Governor of the State of New York in the Sum of Five thousand pounds Currt Money of the said State of New
                            York; to be paid unto the said George Clinton, his Executors, administrators, and assigns. To the payment whereof well & truly to be made & done, I bind myself, My Hiers Executors and Administrators firmly by these presents. Sealed
                            with my Seal and dated this 1st day of December Anno Dom: One thousand Seven hundred & Eighty two.
                        The Condition of the above Obligation is such that if the above bound George Washington his Heirs, Executors
                            and Administrators shall well & truly pay, or cause to be paid unto the above named George Clinton his Heirs,
                            Executors or Administrators the Sum of Two thousand five hundred pounds like Current Money of the State of New York with
                            legal Interest theron up on demand, then the above obligation to be null & void—otherwise to remain in full
                            force power & virtue in Law.
                        Note, On the Original, of which this is the Copy—it is certified, that on One thousand of the Twenty five
                            hundd pounds for the payment of which this Bond is given—no more than Six pr Ct Intt is to be paid. the remaining 1500
                            carries the legal Intt of Seven pr Ct.

                            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 2 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Monday Decr 2d 82
                            Parole Antwerp.
                            Countersigns Bladensburgh,
                            Chester.

                                For the day tomorrow

                                Lieutt Colo. Brooks, Major Scott.

                                For duty tomorrow

                                9th Massachusetts regiment.

                        The General being informed that the Patroles have in some instances been guilty of irregularities in the
                            houses where they rendezvous: desires that the officers commanding them may not halt at houses or suffer any of their
                            Party to go into them except merely to search for Soldiers that may be concealed there and that such search may be always
                            made under the direction of a Commissioned or Noncommissd Officer.


Title: From Tench Tilghman to Tobias Fernald, 2 December 1782
From: Tilghman, Tench
To: Fernald, Tobias

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 2d Decemr 1782

                        His Excellency desires me to inform you that Capt. Pillsbury being a senior Captain, he does not think
                            himself at liberty to permit him to be deranged upon the Resolve of the 19th of Novemr, without he makes particular
                            application agreeble to the tenor of that Resolve—He must therefore be arranged—be informed of the Resolve, and if he
                            wishes to take advantage of it he must apply to the Commander in Cheif and state his reasons for so doing. I am Sir Yr
                            most obt Servt

                            Tench Tilghman
                            A.D.C.


Title: To George Washington from Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 2 December 1782
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                            Philadelphia December 2d 1782.

                        The Minister of France presents his respectful Compliments to his Excellency General Washington and begs to
                            order the enclosed letter for Count de Rochambeau to be delivered in his own hand on his arrival in Camp or wherever it
                            may be done with Safety.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 2 December 1782
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,War. Office December 2nd 1782

                        I am this morning honored with your Excellency’s letter of the 27th ultimo.
                        I have no idea that the explanatory resolve of Congress has relation to any corps but such as are subject to
                            the reform directed in the resolve of the 7th of August—and I am confident such a measure would meet a certain negative
                            were it proposed for whenever a request for leave to return with the emoluments granted by the resolve of the 21st of
                            October 1780 comes before Congress—it is warmly opposed—observations are made that a compliance with such requests will
                            double our number of Officers—by furnishing two setts.
                        I am fully in sentiment with your Excellency respecting Hazen’s regiment.
                        I have conversed with Mr Morris about the clothing—he is in hourly expectation of a very considerable supply
                            from Europe—and is perplexed at present what measures to take—as the state of our finance forbids his making purchases
                            while he has such prospects of a supply for the next year’s clothing—he has directed a quantity to be purchased from Mr
                            Ross in Virginia—and there is an arrival of clothing at Boston.
                        The coats will in future be faced with red—white linings and buttons—this change in the uniform appeared to
                            be wished for when I conversed with the Officers in Camp.
                        I have given the most pointed orders to hasten the envoy of shirts—1200 may be very soon expected in Camp.
                            the whole will be sent on without delay—a great number of persons are employed in making them.
                        I have directed a return of the German Artificers to be made, and I expect hourly to receive it—I am so fully
                            persuaded that the repairs you mention are requisite and necessary—that no time shall be lost in procuring German
                            Artificers to complete them—if any are to be got I have ordered the company– books to be made—they shall be forwarded in
                            the course of this month. I have the honor to be, with perfect esteem and attachment, My dear General, Your most obedient
                            servant

                            B. Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from Philip John Schuyler, 2 December 1782
From: Schuyler, Philip John
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Philadelphia Decemr 2d 1782

                        My children are so exceedingly anxious to return to Albany and so prepossesed with an Idea that they cannot
                            recover their health whilst they remain here, that I propose to move them as soon as they shall be deemed capabable of the
                            Journey—It is at present my in tention to apply for Sir Guy Carltons leave to pass the Harbour of New York in a Shallop
                            from Elizabeth town. If it is not improper I have to Intreat Your Excellency that directions may be given to the officers
                            commanding at the posts in the river to permit the vessel which may convey may be to pass—If such an order should Interfer
                            with any arrangements you may have made, I beg to be advised of It in which case I will attempt to procure a vessel within
                            our lines and embark there for Fish Kill, or further up If the state of the river
                            will permit. I have the Honor to be with Great Esteem, and affection Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant

                            Ph: Schuyler