Title: To George Washington from Jeremiah Olney, 20 May 1782
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Providence 20th May 1782

                        Soon after I had the Honor of addressing your Excellency 18th Ulto—your favr of 9th April Came to hand
                            permitting me to Remain in the State untill Your Excellency’s Further pleasure—by which I am particularly oblig’d as Mrs
                            Olney’s Indisposition unhappily Seems to Increase—I have the pleasure to inform your Excellency
                            that 220 Recruits are muster’d—that 204 have already march’d—the greater part of which I presume have Joyn’d the Regmt—there is 39 Wanting to Compleat this States Quota—it being attended with difficulty to procure men at present—I am
                            Inclin’d to think the Delinquent Classes will Generally pay the fines Requir’d in the act of Assembly—I have the painfull
                            mortification to inform your Excellency that Ensg. Johnson (who was appointed by the State in Augt of 81 & Joyn’d
                            the Regmt, in Feby last) has most shamefully deserted from his arrest which I am inform’d was Ocation’d by his
                            ungentlemanlike Behavour towards Majr Genl Lincoln—he has been in Town Ten days but I was unacquainted with the manner of
                            his Leaving the Regmt, ’till yesterday when I immediately Communicated it to his Honr the Lieut. Govr who advis’d me to
                            Confine him which was accordingly don—his Conduct being Intirely unpresedent’d, I feel myself much Embarras’d with this
                            Disagreeable affair, and disire your Excellencie’s particular Instructions Respecting the measures I am to pursue with
                            him.
                        This will be deliver’d your Excellency by the Bearrer David Hoell Esqr. who is Elected a Deligate to
                            Represent this State in Congress the Ensuing year—he is a Gentleman of approv’d abilities and Integrity—and is Greatly
                            Esteem’d for his patriotism throughout the State—I therefore beg leave to Introduce him (as a Gentleman of merrit) to
                            your Excellencies Friendly Notice. I have the Honor to be with Great Esteem Your Excellencies Most Obedt Sert

                            Jereh Olney


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Holden Parsons, 20 May 1782
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Middletown 20th May 1782

                        Messrs Reuben Smith Norton, Samuel Mix & Ezekiel Cowles are young Gentlemen whose Family Connections
                            render them respectable in this State & whose personal Accomplishments give fair Prospects of their being
                            Serviceable if admitted to Command in the Army.
                        They are desirous of Subalterns Commissions in the Corps of Sappers & Miners: I beleive they will not
                            disappoint your Excellency’s Expectations Should they meet your Approbation & would recommend them to your
                            Excellency for Appointments in that Corps. the Executive of this State decline at present making any Appointments in their
                            Regiments otherwise tis probable they might be appointed in the Connect. Line. I am with the highest Esteem Dr General your
                            most Obedt Servt

                            Saml H. Parsons


Title: From George Washington to Comfort Sands, 20 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Sands, Comfort,Livingston, Walter

                            Gent.
                            Head Quarters 20th May 1782

                        I think it proper to acquaint you that such of the Levies of the State as shall be directed to serve in the
                            lower parts of the State are to be considered as part of the moving Army and are to be supplied accordingly A Detachment
                            of them is orderd to Bedford and another to Orange Town—I have directed them to draw from the nearest place of Issue to
                            their respective Posts—you will please to give the necessary orders to your Commissaries accordingly. I am Gent.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tupper, 20 May 1782
From: Tupper, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             c.20 May 1782

                        I have judged it necessesary to send out several Scouts of 80 privates each to lay in ambush on the different
                            routs the enemy generaly take when they approach our Frontiers so that if possable to Intercept them & prevent the
                            continuation of these Murthers and Devastations which have been too frequent this Spring, and as it was necessesary they
                            should be out ten or twelve days concluded hard Bread was necessesary, the Contractors have furnished what was wanting on
                            my Application but are of opinion that a note of approbation from your Excellency to the Minister of war will be
                            Necessesary to enable them to obtain the difference of value of hard above common Bread. There has been no discoveries of
                            the enemy very lately in these parts except A Scout as far as Crounpoint which soon returned. Colo. Reed has not returned,
                            I expect he is sick when he arives I shall repair to my Regiment. I am with the greatest respect your Excellencys most
                            obident humble Servt

                            Benj. Tupper Colo. Comt


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Tupper, 20 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Tupper, Benjamin

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 20th May 1782

                        I have reced your Letter of the 11th Instant and another without date the former inclosing the proceedings of
                            a Court Martial held for the Trial of Shem Kentfield.
                        Inclosed you have Copy of the General Order approving the proceedings and a Warrant for the Execution of the
                            Prisoner—the place of Execution is left to you.
                        The necessity of the Contractors furnishing Lard bread when required has been represented to Mr Morris who
                            will doubtless take measures accordingly. I am Sir Your very humble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Frederick Weissenfels, 20 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Weissenfels, Frederick

                            Sir
                            Head Qrs 20 May 82

                        It has been suggested to me that a considerable number of the Levies raised by this State for 8 Months, might
                            be Inlisted into the Continental Regiments for longer periods, provided such a measure was encouraged by their Officers.
                        When it is considered of how little Service these Men are, when detached for so short a time, and what
                            Essential benefits will accrue, not only to the public at large but to this State in particular, from their being Inlisted
                            into the Continental Regiments of this State, I cannot but be persuaded, that you will do all in your power to forward it;
                            but as much will depend on the Encouragement given by the inferior Officers, who are more intimately connected with the
                            Men, It would not be amiss for you to explain to those Gentlemen the very Essential Service they will render their Country
                            by Encouraging these Inlistments—and as the Continental line must be compleated it will make no difference in their
                            Commands—whether we Inlist them or they are obliged to send them by Detachmt.
                        In conversation with Governor Clinton I was glad to hear he had already recommended this matter to your
                            attention—I wish you to follow any directions he may have given you. I am


Title: From George Washington to Guy Carleton, 21 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Carleton, Guy

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 21st May 1782

                        I embrace the earliest moment to inform your Excellency that, your Request of a passport for Mr Morgan to go
                            with your Dispatches to Philadelphia, is disagreeable to Congress, and cannot be admitted.
                        A Number of Inhabitants of the State of South Carolina, principally Women and Children, having under the
                            British Administration, been sent from Charlestown to Pennsylvania, I have the Honor to propose, that proper passports may
                            be granted from your Excellency for their safe Return, with their Baggage, to the State of So Carolina—And as these
                            unfortunate persons have been removed by Orders of the British Commanders, I am directed further to propose, that the
                            Expence of their Transportation shall be born by the King of GBritain—and that your Orders may be given for that
                            purpose.
                        Your Excellency will oblige me by giving an early reply to this proposal—the persons mentioned, having been
                            long absent from their own State & Friends, are anxious to return to their Homes, in the most easy and expeditious
                            manner. I have the Honor to be Sir Your Excellencys Most Obedient and most humble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Dayton, 21 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Jonathan

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Newburgh May 21st 1782

                        I have received your Letter of the 18th by Mr Skinner, from whom I have also learnt that a flag which lately
                            arrived with Prisoners from New York, has been detained in conformity to my Orders on that subject, until further
                            directions should be received; in which you have acted very properly.
                        But you will on the receipt of this, suffer the flag to return, informing the Officer that no more flags are
                            to be sent from or received at Elisabeth Town; and that any Persons coming from the Enemy to that place with a flag
                            hereafter, will be considered & held as Prisoners. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Dayton, 21 May 1782
From: Dayton, Jonathan
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Elizabeth Town May 21st 1782

                        Mr Skinner, whose immediate departure did not afford me an opportunity of writing upon the subject, has
                            without doubt reported to your Excellency the circumstance of the detention of Mr Lenox Depy Commissary of naval
                            prisoners, his vessel and the hands as prisoners, agreable to your Excellency’s orders communicated by a letter to Colonel
                            Dayton some time since. They will be continued at this place until I have the honor of receiving your Excellency’s further
                            directions.
                        The fleet of which I made mention to your Excellency in my last letter, sailed immediately, and another much
                            larger is now preparing and falling down consisting of all the square rigged vessels in New York harbour which are fit for
                            service. They are, I believe with certainty, intended for the removal of the army and stores from South Carolina &
                            Georgia and are to be convoyed by all the largest ships upon this station. A great number of men were impressed on
                            Saturday night and even in the day time which were supposed to be wanted for manning the transports that compose this
                            fleet. The militia of the city were ordered upon duty and relieved the regular troops on Sunday, who are preparing to be
                            reviewed by Sir Guy Carleton. This order has occasioned great confusion and discontent, the more so as it too plainly
                            indicates what they may be made to expect should their situation become more serious or more dangerous—The only reason
                            for this, (from what I can collect) is, that the army may be in a more collected state for reviewal, which I believe to be
                            a temporary matter only. I have the honor to subscribe myself with the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s very obedt hum.
                            sert

                            Jona: Dayton


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to William Heath, 21 May 1782
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Heath, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 21st May 1782

                        His Excellency requests that you will cause the inclosed to be forwarded to Capt. Pray at Dobbs Ferry—from
                            whence it is to go into N. York with as much Dispach as possible. Most respectfully I am Sir Your most Obed.
                                Servant

                            J. Trumbull Junr Secty

                            P.S. you will be pleased to give the Flag for the purpose.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 21 May 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Highlands, May 21. 1782.

                        The night before last sixty or seventy recruits arrived from Massachusetts; among them ten or a dozen lads by
                            no means fit for soldiers at present, and two deserters from the enemy—One of the deserters went from here to the eastward
                            but about two months since. The small lads and the two deserters have not been distributed to the regiments, but remain at
                            West point Colonel Stewart has looked at the whole party, and objected to those I have mentioned; but he knows not what to
                            do with them—neither do I. The principal fault is with the muster-master who passed them—For, by the act of the State, I
                            take it, if the recruits are accepted and passed by a continental muster-master, the town and class are discharged. If
                            these lads are retained with the army, they cannot do the duty of soldiers in the field; if they are sent back, others
                            will not be sent in their room; if they are sent to the corps of invalids with a view to their growing stouter and being
                            formed soldiers, by the time they are fit for service in the field the time of their engagements will have expired; the
                            same will be the case should they be assigned to the music. Several were sent back the last year, and I recollect there was
                            much uneasiness in the state on account of it, and I believe one or more representations made to your Excellency on the
                            occasion, and finally many of them were collected and sent again to the army. I submit the matter in the present case to
                            your Excellency’s determination.
                        Lieutenant-colonel Badlam has been ordered on to join the army—and I have written to the other mustering
                            officers most pointedly respecting the muster of the recruits. If any are mustered who are not fit for service, it will be
                            the fault of the muster-masters; and it is my intention to order such of them relieved immediately as shall appear by the
                            recruits they send on, to have omitted their duty.
                        Of the detachment which arrived the night before last, seven or eight deserted on the road. I have the honor
                            to be With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath

                            P.S. Two o’clock P.M. The inclosed is this moment come to hand.

                     Enclosure

                                Dr Sir,
                                Near Pines Bridge 21st May 1782

                            I last evening received information from two different Persons, that there is an Expedition forming by
                                the Enemy, which is Supposed will be up the River as a Number of Vessels are got ready, and Troops are collecting to
                                embark, it is Said the Block House opposite Dobbs Ferry, will be thier first object; my Informant Says Delaceys Core
                                are Arming again, to come out in force very Soon, and thinks his information may be depended on, those who are
                                Acquainted with the Men that gives this Intelligence Say they are Men of Veracity. I am Dr Sir your
                                Most Obedt & very Humle Servt

                                W. Clift Major Commdg On the Lines


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 21 May 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Highlands, May 21. 1782.

                        The enclosed letter from captain Pray, and the two newspapers, came to hand the last evening—If any further
                            intelligence is obtained, it shall be forwarded immediately. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect, Your
                            Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath

                     Enclosure

                                Dear General
                                Nyack May 20th 1782

                            Since Mr Shaylor wrote Your Honor in the morning, we have from very good authority that there is an
                                embarcation taking place at York. the pioners are March’d from Kings Bridge. The Hessions and Yangers call’d from Long
                                Island.
                            I expect to have the Certainty of the report this evening, with the particulars—which shall be
                                immediately forwarded to your Honor. I have the Honor to be with Every Sentiment of respect and Esteem your Honors
                                most obedt & humble Servt

                                Jno. Pray Capt.

                                There has been consiterable fireing Like Signal Guns this day.


Title: To George Washington from William Irvine, 21 May 1782
From: Irvine, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Fort Pitt May 21st 1782

                        A number of the principal people of this Country made application to me about two Weeks since, for my consent
                            to their collecting a body of Volunteers to go against Sanduskey, which I agreed to on these express conditions that they
                            did not mean to extend their settlements nor had any thing in View but to harrass the Enemy with an intention to protect
                            the frontier; and that any conquests they might make should be in behalf and for the United States, that they would be
                            governed by Military Law, as Militia, that they must collect such numbers as might probably be successfull, and last, that
                            they would Equip themselves, and Victual, at their own expence—They are Accordingly assembling this day at the Kings
                            Bottom, all on Horseback with thirty days provision—They have Asked of me Only a few Flints and a small supply of Powder.
                        As they will Elect their Officers, I have taken some pains to get Colonel Crawford appointed to Command,
                            & hope he will be, he lift me yesterday on his way down to the place of Rendezvous, he does not wish to go with a
                            smaller number than four hundred, whether this number will assemble I can not say, he pressed me for some Officers, I have
                            sent with him Lieutenant Rose my Aid De Camp, A very Vigilant Active Brave young Gentleman well Acquainted with service,
                            and A Surgeon, these two are all I could venture to spare—several were solicitous for my going, but I did not think my
                            self at liberty consistent with the Spirit of Your Excellencys Instructions, nor are we in such a situation that I could
                            take a single Continental Soldier along, particularly as the Volunteers are all mounted—If their number exceeds three
                            hundred I am of Opinion they may succeed, as their march will be so rapid they will probably in a great degree effect a
                            surprise.
                        I can not find a man in this Country who has a tolerable knowledge of the road to Niagara, there are numbers
                            who are acquainted to the heads of Aligany from thence I think, the people of the State of New York are better acquainted
                            than any this way. I have the honor to be with perfect Respct Sir Your Excellencys Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant

                            Wm: Irvine


Title: To George Washington from Lewis Nicola, 21 May 1782
From: Nicola, Lewis
To: Washington, George

                            Sr
                            Fishkill 21 May 1782

                        Yesterday morning Col. Shepard called at my quarters and informed me there was to have been a meeting of
                            field officers on sunday afternoon, that he had read & approved of the rough draught of the representation
                            & directed his Lt Col. to sign it in his name if confirmed at the meeting, from this I concluded it would be
                            immediately sent to me—& that I should have had the honour of waiting on your Excellency yesterday, but have been
                            disappointed. I am going to meet Lord Stirling and Genl Hand at the Connecticut Hutts & shall, if possible procure
                            & transmit it without delay, in the interim permit me to trouble you with an affair of a more private nature, as
                            it concerns the Invalid regt only.
                        This regiment being in some points differently circumstanced from other corps of infantry I take the liberty
                            to point out the variations & propose to your Excellency some regulations for it.
                        In the scheme for its formation it was to consist of eight companies of 100 privates each, but the number of
                            men has never been sufficient to compleat four companies, yet we have twelve captains.
                        The regt at present consists of four incompleat companies stationed here and in the vicinity. One at
                            Philadelphia of about 60 men, where of, by the last return, 34 were fit for garrison duty, the rest criples or in the
                            hospital; besides these there are about thirty in Boston or on the march to this place, which I propose incorporating with
                            the four companies when they arrive.
                        Of the captains three entirely disqualified for service. Capt. Woelpper from age, which has much injured his
                            mental faculties. Capt. Williams paralletic, he has lost the use of one side & his speech is much impaired. Capt.
                            Cooper has had his thigh cut off so high he has not been able to walk out of the barracks of Philadelphia for two years he
                            has been with us. These three, with your Excellencies approbation, might be excused from taking any command or doing any
                            duty in the regiment & permitted to continue therewith or retire to such places as may be most convenient to them.
                        One captain to remain in Philadelphia to take care of the men there & receive such as may be
                            transferred from the southward.
                        Capt. Lt McElhalton, being Paymaster & Clothier, to attend to those duties without being troubled
                            with the care of a company.
                        Of the other seven, four to continue always with the regt to command the companies, the other three to have
                            leave of absence; this indulgence to be taken in rotation for six months at a time.
                        Our establishment is sixteen Lieuts. but we have but ten, two whereof are staff officers, neither have we one
                            ensign.
                        I further take the liberty to trouble you with a packet to be perused at a leasure hour, and have the honour
                            to assure you I am with respect Your Excellencies Most obedt Servant

                            Lewis Nicola Col. Inv.


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 21 May 1782
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sr
                            Hartfort 21st May 1782

                        I have the honor to Enclose a Resolve of the Governor and councill of Safety of this State Requesting from
                            your Excellency a Guard, to Serve at New gate prison, at Symsberry, the reasons for this are the Difficulty attending the
                            militia rotation guards.
                        The benefit that Prison is to the United States, The Safety, Security, and Terror it gives the prisoners
                            comitted to it. I heartily wish your complyance. I am with high Esteem and Regard Your Excellencys most Obedt Humble Servt

                            Jonth; Trumbull


Title: General Orders, 22 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head. Quarters Newburgh Wednesday 22. May 82.
                            Parole C. Signs.

                        At a General Court Martial held in Albany the sixth day of May instant by order of Col. Tupper whereof Major
                            William Scott is President, was Tried. Shem Kentfield soldier in the first New Hamshire Regiment "For desertion and
                            bearing Arms in the service of the King of Great Britain against these United states."

                        The Court having duly considered the charges, with the circumstances for and against the Prisoner, are
                            unanimously of Opinion that the prisoner Shem Kentfield is guilty of the charges exhibited against him being a breach of
                            Art. first sect. 6 of the Articles of War and do sentence him to suffer Death, by Hanging by the Neck untill he is dead.
                        The Commander in Chief approves the sentence of the above Court Martial and orders it to be put into
                            execution at such time and place as may be ordered by the officer commanding at Albany.


Title: To George Washington from Jabez Bowen, 22 May 1782
From: Bowen, Jabez
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                             Providence May 22 1782

                        This will be deliverd your Excellency by the Honble David Howell Esquire who is on his way to Philidelphia to
                            take his seat in the Congress of the United States, you will find him a firm Friend to the
                            Independence of this Country, and for useing Energetick Measures for filling up the Army &c.
                            I Recommend him to your Excellencys particular Notice.
                        I have perused your Letter of the 4th Directed to Govr Greene, if the States dont affoard you neighther Men,
                            nor Money, they cannot expect you to Fight; however I hope you can supply your self with Pen, Ink, and Paper, with which I
                            would have you Cry aloud and spare not; I hope they may yet be awaked from the Stupor into which they have fallen; Rhode
                            Island have Musterd and sent forward 200 fine young fellows about 20 Remains hear who March in a few Days. Their is about
                            Five Thousand Dollars already paid into the Continental Chest, I am in hopes that the amount of Twenty Thousand will be
                            soon deposited their. I wish our abilities was equal to our Desires to serve the General Cause and your Excellency.
                        Mrs Bowen presents her best Respects to Your Excellency. you will please to accept the
                            same from myself and Believe that I am with much esteem. Your Most Obedient and verry Humb. Servant

                            Jabez Bowen


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 22 May 1782
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Poughkeepsie 22d May 1782

                        Yesterday I received a Letter, by Mr Muirson, from His Excellency Governor Trumball (Copies of which and Mr
                            Muirson’s Parole I take the Liberty of enclosing.) His Character is justly described in the Letter;
                            but as he came out under the sanction of a Flag and was received by the Authority at Fairfield I did not conceive it
                            proper to order him into confinement. I have however paroled him to the limits of this Precinct until it shall be
                            expedient to suffer him to return within the Enemy’s Lines. I have not the most distant Desire that any Regulation which
                            your Excellency has thought proper to establish should be infringed to accomodate this Gentleman but I wish at the same
                            time to be rid of him as soon as possible; as Persons of his stamp and Character may have it in their Power, especially at
                            this Period, to do much Mischief in the Country notwithstanding any restrictions they may be laid under.
                        I should be happy to be informed whether the Officers of the New York Line, whom your Excellency proposed
                            ordering to recruit among the Levies, might not be directed to receive, at Albany, the Drafts from Colo. Willets Regiment
                            for completing the continental Regiments; and if not that you would be pleased to inform me (or Colo. Willet if a direct
                            Conveyance offers from Head Quarters) at what Place they are to be delivered. I have the Honor to be with great Respect
                            & Esteem Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

                            Geo: Clinton

                     Enclosure

                                COPY
                                Hartford 13th May 1782

                            I Benjamin Woolsey Murison of Long Island do hereby promise and Engage upon my word of honor that I will
                                immediately go from hence to the State of New York and deliver my self up to his Excellency George Clinton Esqr. and
                                to take his Orders Respecting my returning within the British lines and that I will not do or say
                                any thing prejudecial to the Interest of the United States of America during my Stay in the Country or on my return
                                within the British lines or make any Representation arising from any knowledge I may gain while in the Country that
                                will prejudece Said States and that I will faithfully deliver to his Excellency Govr Clinton the Letter now committed
                                to my care directed to him. Wetness my hand

                                Benja. Woolsey Muirson

                     Enclosure

                                (Copy)
                                Sir
                                Hartford 13th May 1782

                            Inclosed I send your Excellency a Copy of the Parol of a certain Benja. W. Muirson of Long Island, who
                                applied to me for liberty to go to Boston in order to transact some private Business; But being informed from
                                undoubted authority of his inimical Character, thought it expedient to send him to your Excellency as he is an
                                Inhabitant of your State & whose Character is probably well known. I am with Esteem and Consideration Sir Your
                                Obedt humble Servt

                                Jonth. Trumbull


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 22 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 22d May 1782

                        Your three Favours of 7th 13th & 15th of April are received—with their several Inclosures.
                        A Variety of circumstances at this Time conspire to prevent an ultimate Decission upon the operations of the
                            Campaign.
                        Before this can reach you, a total change of Men and Measures, which has taken place in Great Britain, will
                            be announced to you—what will be the Consequences of this Revolution, cannot with certainty be declared—Already, Sir Guy
                            Carleton is arrived at New York—charged with, as he says, a Commission of Peace, in conjunction with Admiral Digby—his
                            Terms of Conciliation, which have been sent to me, bear the aspect of those brought by former Commissioners in the year
                            1778—merely ostensible and delusory—As soon as our plan of Operations is fixed which I hope will soon be done, you will be
                            informed of every measure necessary to be communicated to you. In the mean Time I forbear entering into any particular
                            Details.
                        General St Clair is not yet arrived at my Camp I shall defer making any reply to your proposed Regulations of
                            the Army untill I have seen him.
                        Within a few Days the happy Event of the Birth of a Dauphine of France, has been formally announced to
                            Congress by the Minister of France—its Celebration has been observed in Philadelphia and is directed to be noticed in the
                            Army with such Demonstrations of Joy as are thought proper for the occasion—this will be done here, and I now make the
                            Communication to you, that the Officers of your Army may have an opportunity to participate in the general Joy.
                        I am very glad to hear the safe arrival of Mrs Greene at your Quarters, and most sincerely give you Joy of
                            the Event—Mrs Washington joins me in most cordial Compliments to Mrs Greene, and our hearty good wishes for hers and your
                            health and happiness. I am Dr Sir with great esteem Your Friend and Humble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Ann Hawkes Hay, 22 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Hay, Ann Hawkes

                            Sir.
                            Head Quarters May 22d 1782

                        Yours of the 27th Ulto I have received The Artillery stationed at the post at Stoney Point is considered as
                            barely sufficient for its defence should any detachment therefore be made for the purpose mentioned it might be exposed—as
                            the Ships should they make their appearence, favour’d by a small breeze, would be able to pass the fort before it would be
                            possible to return the peice to its station I cannot therefore with propriety give the order you request I must
                            acknowledge myself obliged for your Spirited Offer & if it does not interfere with the arrangements of the
                            Artillery that Genl Knox may make upon his Arrival, a peice shall be stationd at the fort for the purposes alluded to in
                            yours. I am Sir With esteem Your &a.


Title: To George Washington from Ebenezer Hazard, 22 May 1782
From: Hazard, Ebenezer
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            General Post Office, Philadelphia May 22d 1782.

                        Will your Excellency favor me with your Opinion of Kakiat as a Place of Safety? Could the Mails remain safely
                            there one Night in each Week, they might be carried from hence to Boston in five Days less Time than is necessary upon the
                            present Establishment. I have the Honor to be, very respectfully, Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

                            Ebenr Hazard


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 22 May 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Highlands May 22nd 1782

                        I forward One Henry Miers a German who came here this morning Sais he was Docters mate to the Prince
                            Hereditarys Regiment of German Troops. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most obedt Sert

                            W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to William Irvine, 22 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Irvine, William

                            sir
                            Head Quarters Newburgh May 22d 1782

                        I have been Favored with your two Letters of 20th April & 2d May, and am much obliged by your
                            vigilance & attention.
                        An extract, respecting the removing and supporting the Indians, I have transmitted to the Secretary of War;
                            and desired him to take measures for the relief & comfort of those distressed Wretches.
                        Any further particulars you can obtain of the Route to Niagara & its practicability, you will please
                            to forward to me as early as possible—the more minute & circumstantial the better.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 22 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters 22 May 1782

                        Your Favor of the 15th is received—with its several Inclosures.
                        The Resolution of Congress respectg the Inhabitants of So. Carolina, would have been commincated to
                            the British Comander in Chief in N. York, before this Time, but for the disagreeable Circumstance of Retaliation which has
                            intervened—the purport of that Resolve is transmitted in my Letter of Yesterday to Lord Guy Carleton.
                        Inclosed is an Extract of a Letter from B. Genl Irvine at Fort Pitt—respectg a Number of unfortunate friendly
                            Indians—whose Circumstances are distressed, & who ought to be provided for—I transmit it for your Consideration,
                            and request that Measures may be taken for their comfortable Relief. I am &a

                            G.W.

                            P.S. Inclose to you a Copy from the Genl Orders of last Year respectg Promotions in the Corps of
                                Sappers & Miners—and have to desire that Commissions may be sent forward agreeable to the
                                several Appointments.I am &a

                            G.W.

                            The Letters Inclosed you will please to forward by the first favorable Opportunity.


Title: From George Washington to Robert R. Livingston, 22 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, Robert R.

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters 22d May 1782

                        I have been honored with your Favor of the 13th communicating to me the formal Annunciation to Congress, by
                            the Minister of France, of the Birth of a Dauphine.
                        Measures are ordered to convey to the Army the News of this happy Event; which will be celebrated with such
                            Demonstrations of Joy as the Occasion requires and our Circumstances will admit.
                        This Information will be transmitted to Genl Greene, that the Army, under his Command, may participate in the
                            general Joy. I have the Honor to be, with the greatest Respect, Your very humbl. Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Mathews, 22 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Mathews, John

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 22d May 1782

                        I have been hond with your Excelly two Favors of the 15th of March & 11th of April.
                        I am happy to Observe the good Disposition of the State over which you preside—their Exertions seem to me in
                            proportion to the Distresses in which they have been involved—The Act for Recruitg your Line I hope may be attended with
                            happy Consequences.
                        Our Affairs at this moment are placed in a most critical Situation—a Situation which claims all our Wisdom
                            & Vigor. The Enemy are again trying the Acts of Delusion & Seduction—A total Resolution in their Ministry
                            will be announced to you—this will probably produce a Resolution in Measures—not, I fear, favorable to a speedy
                            Restoration of Peace—Sir Guy Carleton is arrived at N. York with propositions of Conciliation similar to those in
                            1780—Ostensible & Delusory—the Consequences Time must disclose.
                        I feel myself honored by the very polite Claim which you are pleased to make upon my friendship and shall
                            ever be happy in an Occasion to manifest to your Excellency, the Esteem with which you have impressed me, & to
                            convince you thereof by any Communications worthy of Notice in your public Capacity. I have the Honor &ca


Title: From George Washington to Lewis Nicola, 22 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Nicola, Lewis

                            Sir,
                            Newburgh May 22d 82

                        With a mixture of great surprise & astonishment I have read with attention the Sentiments you have
                            submitted to my perusal. Be assured, Sir, no occurrence in the course of the War, has given me more painful sensations
                            than your information of there being such ideas existing in the Army as you have expressed, & I must view with
                            abhorrence, and reprehend with severity—For the present, the communicatn of them will rest in my own bosom, unless some
                            further agitation of the matter, shall make a disclosure necessary.
                        I am much at a loss to conceive what part of my conduct could have given encouragement to an address which to
                            me seems big with the greatest mischiefs that can befall my Country. If I am not deceived in the knowledge of myself, you
                            could not have found a person to whom your schemes are more disagreeable—at the same time in justice to my own feeling I
                            must add, that no man possesses a more sincere wish to see ample Justice done to the Army than I do, and as far as my
                            powers & influence, in a constitutional way extend, they shall be employed to the utmost of my
                            abilities to effect it, should there be any occasion—Let me conjure you then, if you have any regard
                            for your Country, concern for your self or posterity—or respect for me, to banish these thoughts from your Mind, &
                            never communicate, as from yourself, or any one else, a sentiment of the like nature. With esteem I am Sir Yr Most Obedt
                            Servt

                            Go: Washington

                            The foregoing is an exact copy of a Letter which we sealed & sent off to Colonel Nichola at the
                                request of the writer of it.

                            D. Humphrys Aid de Camp
                            Jona. Trumbull Jun. Secty


Title: To George Washington from Guy Carleton, 23 May 1782
From: Carleton, Guy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            New York May 23d 1782.

                        Yesterday evening I received Your Excellency’s Letter of the 21st inst. proposing that proper passports be
                            granted for the return of a number of unfortunate inhabitants of So. Carolina, mostly Women & Children, who have
                            been removed from their Province by British Officers, and that the expences of their transportation be defrayed by the
                            King.
                        In answer, I have the honour to inform You, Sir, that without inquiring into the reasons, which occasioned
                            their removal, & forgetting all those severities which have imbittered our unhappy divisions, I shall with great
                            pleasure, fully comply therewith, and in so doing I only pay strict obedience to the Kings benevolent intention.
                        If Your Excellency will be pleased to send me returns of all such persons, I shall order a sufficient number
                            of transports to be prepared with as much dispatch, and with as great convenience for these unfortunate People as
                            circumstances will permit, & the transports shall Sail to any Port You are pleased to point out. I am with much
                            respect Sir Your most obedient Servt

                            Guy Carleton


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 23 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 23d May 1782

                        I have been honored with your Excellency’s Letter of Yesterday, with its Inclosures respecting Mr Murson.
                        Sensible of the Impropriety of suffering persons of his Character to remain in the Country at this Time, I
                            inclose to your Excellency a permission to Capt. Pray who commands at Dobbs Ferry—to pass Mr Muirson within the Enemys
                            Lines—The Time for his going in I submit to your Excellency knowing that you will not wish his Continuence longer than is
                            necessary.
                        It was my Expectation that your Levy Recruits would have been delivered by the State to their Regiments—But
                            two officers having been ordered on to Receive those at Fishkill from Colo. Weizenfelts I think it will be best for those
                            from Colo. Willets Regiment to be delivered at the same place. I have the Honor to be Sir Your Excellency’s Most humble
                            Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 23 May 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Highlands, May 23. 1782.

                        In obedience to a resolution of Congress sent me the last fall, and which I communicated to your Excellency,
                            I have been endeavouring to obtain the documents necessary to ascertain the quantity of forage consumed by the allied army
                            in West Chester county the last campaign. I wrote once and again to colonel Pickering, quartermaster-general of the
                            American army, for a return of the number of horses, oxen, &c. kept by the French army; yesterday I received from
                            him the enclosed letter and papers. The letter from general Beville exhibits his sentiments on the case in dispute; but no
                            return of the number of horses, &c. is transmitted. The state of New York entertain sentiments very different from
                            those expressed by general Beville—and Congress have directed that just and equitable measures be taken to ascertain the
                            quantity of forage consumed. The arbitrators have met once, and their meeting now stands adjourned to the 20. of June
                            next, when they are to meet and complete the business. If the returns from the french army are not obtained, a settlement
                            will be a leap in the dark: and on the other hand, there is little probability of obtaining them before the 20. of June;
                            and indeed from the tenor of general Beville’s letter, they will not be transmitted unless called for by your Excellency.
                            I therefore beg leave to submit the matter to your consideration, and request your opinion and advice on the subject. I
                            wish a return of the several papers enclosed after your Excellency has read them, as I have not taken copies. I have the
                            honor to be, With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                            W. Heath

                     Enclosure

                                 5 Feb. 1782

                            Extract of a letter from Major General Heath to Colonel Pickering Q.M.G: dated Head Quarters Highlands
                                Feby 5th 1782.
                            ‘Dear sir’
                            ‘I was the last evening honored with letters from his Excellency the commander in chief—in one of them he
                                is pleased to express himself as follows.’
                            "If colonel Pickering has not left the north river, he can inform you whether any, or what steps have
                                been taken to procure a return of the horses and cattle of the French Army which were in the camp at West
                                Chester—Should nothing have been done, the request will go properly from him to General de Beville, the quarter master
                                general."
                            ‘Please my dear sir, to let me be favored with those returns as soon as possible. You are fully sensible
                                how anxious the state is for a settlement, and how essential it is that those returns should be previously
                            obtained.’

                     Enclosure

                                (Copy)
                                Sir.
                                Philadelphia Feby 9th 1782

                            Sometime in last autumn, General Heath, who then commanded & still commands the American troops
                                on the Hudson, was directed by Congress to take equitable measures for ascertaining the quantity of forage consumed by
                                the allied army while it lay near Dobbs ferry, in the county of West Chester in the state of New York. This resolution
                                of Congress was handed to me during the siege of york town. So far as the American troops were concerned, I was
                                already prepared with my returns of the number of horses & oxen which had been supported by the forage
                                obtained in West Chester County, and supposed I had no occasion to meddle with what concerned the French Army. But
                                this moment I have received from General Heath a letter on the subject, from which it appears to be the opinion of
                                General Washington, that the application for the necessary returns of the horses & oxen of the French Army,
                                which were subsisted on the forage taken in West Chester county, should be made by you to me. An extract from this
                                letter I do myself the honour to inclose.
                            No account having been taken or appraisement made, at the time, of the several quantities &
                                species of forage collected & used by the allied army while in West Chester County there is no way left for
                                ascertaing the same, but by finding the numbers of horses & oxen which during the time were subsisted on that
                                forage. But there will be some difference between the French and American Army: the former I suppose received very
                                considerable supplies of grain from elsewhere; but the latter subsisted almost entirely on the West Chester forage.
                                To prevent therefore an undue charge, it will be necessary for you to certify, as nearly as you can, the quantities of
                                grain for forage, which were supplied to your army from other places than West Chester County. This Certificate, with
                                the returns of the horses and oxen in your army while we lay in that county, I beg you to transmit to me as speedily
                                as possible, that so I may fulfil the views of the Commander in Chief. I have the honour to be &c.

                                Tim: Pickering Q.M.G.

                     Enclosure

                                Sir,
                                Philadelphia May 11. 1782.

                            On the 8th instant I received the letter from General Beville of which the inclosed is a copy. I also
                                inclose copies of my two letters which he refers to, & of the extract from yours which I sent him therewith.
                                From the information these will furnish, you will judge what further steps are to be taken relative to the forage
                                consumed by the allied army in the county of West Chester, in the state of New-York. I have the honour to be, with
                                great regard, sir, your most obedt servt

                                Tim: Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Lewis Nicola, 23 May 1782
From: Nicola, Lewis
To: Washington, George

                            Sr
                            Fishkill 23 May 1782

                        I am this moment honoured with yours and am extremely unhappy that the liberty I have taken should be so
                            highly disagreable to your Excellency, tho I have met with a many severe misfortunes nothing has ever affected me so much
                            as your reproof. I flatter myself no man is more desirous to be governed by the dictates of true religion and honour,
                            & since I have erred I entreat you will attribute it more to weakness of judgment than corruptness of heart. No
                            man has entered into the present dispute with more zeal, from a full conviction of the justness of it, & I look on
                            every person who endeavours to disturb the repose of his country as a villain, if individuals disapprove of any thing in
                            the form of government they live under they have no other choice but a proper submission or to retire. The scheme I
                            mentioned did not appear to me in a light any way injurious to my country, rather likely to prove beneficial, but since I
                            find your sentiments so different from mine I shall consider myself as having been under a strong delusion, & beg
                            leave to assure you it shall be my future study to combate, as far as my abilities reach, every gleam of discontent.
                            Excuse the confusion of this occasioned by the distraction of my mind & permit me to subscribe myself with due
                            respect. Your Excellencies Most obedt Servant

                            Lewis Nicola Col. Inv.


Title: To George Washington from Matthias Ogden, 23 May 1782
From: Ogden, Matthias
To: Washington, George

                            Bottle Hill 23rd May 1782

                        I enclose your Excellency the latest accounts I have from the Enemy, with some New Papers; which I should
                            have sent the 21st Inst., but was disappointed by the Person engaged to carry my Letter.
                        In a line from Col. Smith, I was advised that your Excellency, has been in great measure disappointed; in not
                            receiving so frequent information from this quarter, as from circumstances you had a right to expect: particularly in the
                            list I was to have furnished—I am exceedingly sorry your Excellency’s expectations have not been answered; ’tho I cannot
                            charge myself with remisness; especially when I reflect upon my own disappointments on this score, arising from the
                            unpunctuality of those Persons whom I have to deal with. These characters I have ever found, more ready to promise; than
                            punctual to execute. Perhaps some things might have escaped me when necessaraly absent at Philadelphia on business for my
                            Regiment; which at this time demands my particular attention, that it may take the Field with credit; which I may hope will be the case.
                        Immediately on the reciept of your Excellencys Letter, I employed two Persons either of whom, I am certain
                            was equal to procure the list refered to. This I have daily expected for two weeks past, & have been as long
                            disappointed; ‘tho I hope to have it soon, & accurate.
                        The danger of committing that to paper which might endanger the safety of Characters concerned; induces me to
                            engage my Brother, Captn Ogden to hand this to your Excellency; he will be able to give information respecting certain
                            matters I mentioned to Col. Smith, & the reason why a certain matter was not attempted in the small way, that
                            circumstances would not have justified, the putting in practice agreeably to the first plan.
                        Capt. Ogden will ask of your Excellency permission for me to put a small affair in execution; & just
                            mention a few matters that may possibly lead to the formation of a plan; which if practible to execute, I think can be
                            done by myself; no other Person having so good an opportunity. I am with the utmost respect your
                            Excellencys humble servt

                            M. Ogden

                     Enclosure

                                Bottle Hill 23rd May—82

                            I have accounts through many different channels that near 100 Transports have fallen through the Narrows,
                                with two fifty Gun Ships & four Frigates, it is believed, & (indeed I have not a doubt) that they are
                                bound for Charles Town, to take on board the Garrison of that place, & of Savannah. This Fleet had not sailed
                                the day before yesterday; a very hot press, has continued for several days, for Seamen to Man the fleet about sailing,
                                ’tho I imagine they are ultimately intended for Rodney.
                            There is a report that three hundred Army Horses have been lately dismissed from service, & that
                                a body of Troops, are under marching orders—in the last Fleet a few Invalids were, bound for Europe.
                            It is certain the Enemy have discontinued their working parties on the lines beyond the Town, altho they
                                are not finished—The Militia have for a few days past done the Garrison duty of the Town, the reason given for this is
                                that Sir Guy intends assembling the Army for a review.


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 23 May 1782
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                            Sir.
                            Hartford 23d May 1782

                        I do myself the Honour to inclose your Excellency Copies of a Letter I lately receivd from Mr Deane and of
                            the answer which I have written—I have submitted them, thro’ the Secretary of foreign affairs, to the inspection of
                            Congress; & hope my answer will meet their and your approbation, as it has done that of the general Assembly of
                            the State unanimously: At a time when the Enemy are attempting to dupe us with the Shadow of Peace, I was not displeas’d
                            at having an opportunity, (thro’ a man who appears to have a good understanding of their Views,) to return them the
                            sentiments of this State on their proposals. I have the Honor to be with very great respect & Esteem, Your
                            Excellency’s most Obedient Humble Servant

                            Jonth; Trumbull

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Ghent 21st October 1781

                            The critical Situation of our publick affairs, forces me to address you, and through you my fellow
                                Citizens of Connecticut. Though persecuted & in effect exiled by Congress, I can not be indifferent to the
                                Fate of my Country. The views of France become every day more evident, and they are no other than to humble Great
                                Brittain at our expence. Spain whilst at War with England, wishes to save appearances, and to employ the Forces of her
                                Enemy on our Continent; but she has not, nor will under any Circumstances, Acknowledge our Independency. Of all the
                                Nations in Europe, Spain is the most Interested to prevent our becoming Independant of any European controul.
                                Remembrance of past Injuries, and the desire of revenge, have Armed that Nation against England, and whilst we employ
                                more than one half the Brittish Force, she hopes to regain the Territory lost by former Wars, and to see us reduced so
                                low, that whether, in the end, we become dependant on France, or England; she will have nothing to fear from us for
                                Ages to come. There does not appear any disposition in any of the Powers of Europe to follow the example of France, and
                                to acknowledge our Independance. The League against England, is in deed a formidable one, but History furnishes us
                                with many instances of Leagues equally powerful against a single State, but with no one, in which they have finally
                                Succeeded. This merrits our Attention. Nothing can be more absurd than to immagine that the Powers in Europe should
                                encourage from other than Interested Motives, a Revolt against a Government Infinitely milder than her own, or that
                                Absolute Monarchs, should cordially approve of the material equality of Man.
                            The Campaign for this year, is nearly finished in Europe on the part of France and Spain, and has been as
                                ridiculously trifling and indecisive as the preceeding ones. The English Fleet is at Sea, it’s object is to intercept
                                the Spanish Flota, or to relieve Minorca, if it succeed in the first, of which there is but too much probability, the
                                Effects will be sensibly felt in Spain, the other is of less importance, but however the War may terminate, we shall
                                find ourselves at the close of it loaded with debt, and Absolutely Dependant on the Victorious Party, if the course of
                                Nature has not changed, but if simular causes continue to produce Simular effects, no Nation was ever in a more
                                dangerous Situation, than what America is in at this time. Happy for us (if we are wise) it is still in our Power to
                                avoid the danger, & to establish the Peace, Liberty and Safety of our Country, on the most sure and Solid
                                Basis. That we must, by continuing the War, and rejecting all Overtures of Peace & reconciliation with Great
                                Brittain, become unconditionally Dependant on France, or Great Brittain, is a truth as demonstrable as any Proposition
                                whatever. If Great Brittain becomes so reduced, as to receive the Law from France & Spain, though it will be
                                at our expence that this is done, yet they will claim the whole merrit, and all the advantages resulting from it. The
                                Power of Great Brittain Reduced; there will not remain any in Europe to hold the balance against the House of Bourbon,
                                and France, able to Dictate the Law to G. Brittain, can do the same to Us, and in a more Imperious manner and with
                                greater safety. France in good Policy will manage her conduct towards Great Brittain in such Circumstances, so as not
                                to offend, and Alarm the rest of Europe, but she can be influenced by no such Motives in her conduct towards Us. We
                                shall be deeply in Debt to her for money actually Borrowed, & supplies of different kinds, and France will
                                charge the whole expence of the War to our Accompt; and make demands, if not on our Purses, on our Gratitude therefor.
                                France has an Army in our Country at their Pay, and at her Orders, She is calculating to increase that Army to twenty,
                                or even to thirty thousand Men. If the History of different Nations afforded Us one Instance in which a People
                                preserved their Liberty and Independance after admitting a Superior Army of Foreign Mercenaries into their Country, to
                                fight their Battles at the pay & Devotion of a Foreign Monarch, we might have some small ground to hope that
                                what has happened, might happen again; but the History of the World produces no such Instance, nor is it possible it
                                ever should, so long as Men & their Passions continue to be the same; that they ever have been. We have a
                                Treaty it is true, which Guaranties our Liberty, & Independance; but with whom is that Treaty? with the very
                                Power which will be Interested to break it, or to explain it away. No Man acquainted with the past & present
                                Transactions in Europe, can be weak enough to presume that any Power will ever regard a Treaty longer than it is for
                                their real or supposed Interest to do so. It is at all times in the Power of the King of France to make or dissolve
                                Treaties, with this difference from Limitted Monarchs that he is not accountable for his Conduct. I have not
                                therefore, gone too far in Asserting that if France & Spain come off Victorious, that We shall be Absolutely
                                Dependant on one or both of them. If England on the other hand continues to make head against all her Enemies, and by
                                some fortunate Event of War, or by the Interposition of Foreign Powers, which is the most probable, forces France and
                                Spain to a Peace, on her own Terms, We must become unconditionally dependant on, & subject to England. The
                                present Moment is therefore of infinite Importance to Us. We are now of great Consequence, in a Treaty of general
                                Peace, We shall be of none at all, or at best a meer Article to be set off, or discounted in the balancing the general
                                Accompt. At present we may obtain a Repeal of all the Acts of Parliament Obnoxious to Us, a perpetual exemption from
                                all Taxes save what we impose on Ourselves, freedom of Legislation and of Commerce. What more shal we gain by
                                Independance? Will the Name of Sovereign Independant States, counterbalance the Miseries, and distress of our Country
                                at the present and the future burthens, to which it must be subjected? This is a serious Question, and I put it to a
                                serious, and thinking People. I am confident that there is not, in the World, a more free & uncorrupted
                                Assembly, than that of Connecticut, none more attentive to the Freedom, ease, and happiness of the People they
                                Represent, and to their true Interest in every respect. Can such an Assembly on serious Reflection, consent to load
                                themselves, and their Constituents with Taxes nearly equal to the whole of their income? The amount of our Share of
                                the publick Debt will not fall short of two Millions Sterling, if the War is continued another year. The Interest of
                                this, the expences of general Government, that is of Congress, of their Ministers, Agents & Consuls in foreign
                                Parts, of their Ministers and Boards at home, of a Fleet, essentially Necessary, to the existance of our Commerce, and
                                the half Pay to Our Officers and Soldiers, will amount to nearly three Shillings on the pound perpetual Tax. Our
                                Ministers and Agents in Europe, cost us at this time; more than twenty thousand pounds Sterling Annually, though We
                                have only one, received & Acknowledged as such. The Secretaries of these inefficient, unacknowledged
                                Ministers, Receive one thousand Sterling annually, which is perfect Sine Cure, for whilst their Principals can not
                                Act, they most certainly can have nothing either to Copy, or to Record. From this sample, and from Congress having
                                uniformly disposed of these places among themselves, we may make some Estimate of Our future Civil List, and it will
                                not be too hardy to say, that it will, if this System is pursued, be as great a Source of Corruption, and as
                                burthensome as the Civil List of England, or the Pensions of France. The Parliament is summoned on Business the 27th
                                of next Month, it is generally believed, that a secret Treaty has some Months since been signed between Russia and
                                England and that it will be announced at the Opening of the Next Session. However that may be there is certainly a
                                good Understanding between the two Powers, and it appears probable that in the coming Winter, both the Emperor of
                                Germany and the Empress of Russia will Interpose their Mediation in more direct & possitive Terms, than in the Last.
                                By the appointment of Delegates by Congress to Attend the Congress at Vienna, I see that the hopes of my Countrymen
                                were Sanguine on that subject; they ought to be undeceived on that, as well as on Many others, The Emperor Offered,
                                and England Accepted of the Mediation On the Express condition that the affair of America should not be subjected to
                                any determination of the proposed Congress, this not being Assented to by France the Affair fell to the ground; it
                                will probably be revived this Winter. The great Objects of England this Winter will be to make a general Peace, or a
                                separate one with Holland and to get that War off their Hands. If they succeed in either, the
                                Consequence will be much the same to Us, if we neglect the present favourable important Moment. I am not disgusted
                                with Men though I am extremely so with measures in France, and I have Written you, not with Confidence, that my
                                sentiments will be adopted, but from the Impulse of Duty, and that this Letter may, by it’s being
                                made a publick one remain in your Publick Files, to Condemn, or Justify me, on some future day. If
                                my Opinions are ill-founded, Still my Intention is good, but if Events Justify my predictions, this Letter will
                                Justify me in the Eyes of Posterity for having given the Alarm in Season, whether it shall be
                                Attended to or not. I have sent my Accts to Congress, by which it will appear that there is a Balance due to me of
                                more than three hundred thousand Livres Tournois. they have by design or inattention prevented my having my Accts
                                Audited or Pay’d. From the general tenor of their Conduct towards me, I am Authoris’d to put the most unfavourable
                                Construction on it; but I will not enter on the disagreeable subject further than to appeal to the
                                Justice & humanity of my Countrymen, to prevent the final ruin of one, who has faithfully served them, and who
                                now hazards the loss of everything, in venturing to undeceive them. I shall probably pass the Winter in this place, or
                                in the Neighbourhood, Commercial Objects as well as Oeconomy, urge me to it. This will go by Capt. Trowbridge, I shall
                                improve every direct Opportunity to Write to you. I have the honor to be with respect Your Excellency’s most Obedt
                                & Very hume servt

                                Silas Deane

                                Copy

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Hartford 15th May 1782.

                            I duly recieved your Letter dated at Ghent the 21st October last by Capt. Trowbridge, and have paid that
                                attention to your sentiments therein expressed which their singularity appear’d to me to Merit.
                            At the time when you wrote, the decisive Event of the last Campaign in this Country was not known to you;
                                you was unacquainted with the noble part which France acted on that occasion; & you could not foresee that
                                this blow would reduce the Brittish Parliament to confess themselves unable to conduct a future offensive war in this
                                Country; you could not foresee that the trifling & indecisive Campaign in Europe, was to be so soon followed
                                by the most important successes in other quarters of the world, That St Eustatia, St Martin, St Kitts, Montserat,
                                Nevis, & Minorca, were destined to Crown the Glories of York Town.
                            Great Brittain is declining rapidly towards the evening of her Glory; yet I view her decline without
                                feeling any fears of France or Spain. It should be the first article of every mans political Creed, that no Nation
                                will ever assist another, but with a view of advancing her own Interests. I am sensible how important an object the
                                humiliation of their ancient Enemy is to France, & Spain, and I would not that my Country should have recieved
                                their favors, unless she could propose to them at the same time an adequate reward. I am sensible that France will
                                ever have just demands upon our Gratitude, and Heaven forbid We should ever so far forget the principles of Virtue
                                & Honor, as to withhold our acknowledgements; yet France if not too generous, is at least too politic to
                                follow in the steps which have led her rival to ruin. She knows our Power too well not to dread our Enmity. She knows
                                our rapidly increasing importance too well, not to wish to cement our present Freindship by a Series of Noble,
                                & liberal actions. You observe that we shall be deeply in Debt to her for monies actually borrowed, and
                                supplies of different kinds. It is very true but shall we pay those Debts with perfidy and ingratitude? Shall we
                                basely desert her? Shall we unite with Her Enemies, and turn against her the resources which we derive from Her in the
                                very War which she has undertaken for our service? France has a Body of Troops in our Country. Very true. They have
                                served us faithfully, and effectually; but I doubt extremely her having any Idea of Augmenting their number to thirty,
                                or even Twenty Thousand men. The debility of our Enemy does not leave her a pretext for such an augmentation even if
                                she wished it, and I trust we have too much wisdom to admit the proposal, were one made, even in an hour of distress,
                                to that purpose. As to the Treaty which guarantees our Independance, I do not suppose it will exist longer than it
                                shall mutually appear to be the Interest of the Parties that it should exist, and I rely with more confidence upon the
                                good sense, the bravery, & the Virtue of my Countrymen for the preservation of our Liberties, than upon any
                                foreign aid. It is we ourselves who are interested in their preservation and as long as we possess virtue to merit, so
                                long we shall undoubtedly enjoy the invaluable blessing; and whether Spain, Holland or any other power upon Earth,
                                formally acknowledge the Independance of the United States of America or not, is in my politickes a matter of
                                Indifference. They are independant in fact, & the name is a Bauble.
                            Sir Guy Carlton who arrived a few days ago at New York has made similar propositions of peace in the
                                name of the King of Great Brittain, with those you pointed out as attainable. You have painted the consequences of the
                                continuance of the war. permit me to view the consequences of such a peace. The object proposed by the Treaty subsisting
                                between France and America is declared to be the acknowledgement of the Independance of the latter by Great Brittain;
                                and in a subsequent resolution of Congress, it is declared that even this object being gained, neither party is at
                                Liberty to conclude a separate peace, without the express consent of the other. In accepting the terms now proposed by
                                the King of Great Brittain: to his revolted Colonies in North America: we must therefore breakthrough
                                every obligation of National Honor to dissolve this Treaty. If the offer were of Independance, the words of the Treaty
                                might furnish us with a slender pretext for accepting it, though even then our own explanatory declaration would
                                forbid the step. But should we basely stoop to return to the state in which we were, in the year 1763, which is the
                                proposal of the Enemy, We have not even words to shelter us from the Contempt of mankind. And surely nothing but
                                Madness can lead us to a breach of faith, as consumately infamous, as it is important. Yet let us suppose America
                                possesses fortitude sufficient to brave the insults of the world; in that moment the object of Great Brittain is
                                accomplished. The present war will soon be terminated, and she will then be at leisure to renew her oppressions in
                                this Country, without the fear of the interposition of another foreign Power. There is not a nation upon Earth who
                                would not exult in seeing a Place of such perfidious, ungrateful, dastardly wretches, oppressed, harrassed, extirpated.
                                France would for once forget her natural enmity to Great Brittain, & rejoice heartily in the acceleration of
                                our ruin. And let no one object to these Ideas the Generosity of the Brittish Nation. This war has given us full
                                experience of what we are to expect from their generosity. Grant that the continuance of the war for a few years will
                                add considerably to the public Debts & taxes; but tell me what ease we are to gain by a reunion with a people,
                                who are sinking under the pressure of their own Debts, & whose necessities will join with their resentments,
                                in the resolution to load us not only with our own, but a large share of their burdens. No, I will sooner consent to
                                load myself, my constituents, my posterity with a Debt equal to the whole property of the Country, than consent to a
                                measure so detestably infamous; and I doubt not but my Countrymen in general will choose with me to preserve their
                                liberties with the reputation & the consciousness of persevering virtue, even though poverty be the
                                consequence.
                            That there have been injudicious expenditures of the Public monies, and that the same may happen again,
                                is to be expected in this Country, as it has been evidenced in every other; for we are not perfect more than all those
                                who have gone before us. But extravagance is not the predominant Vice of Republicks, & we shall endeavour to
                                guard against it.
                            That our public Officers at home, & abroad have in some instances deviated from their Duty, and
                                while they have been expensive have also proved useless, or unfaithful servants, can not be denied, and yet we have
                                seen as little Corruption, & Treason as times of public convulsion have commonly exhibited.
                            From the Information which I have of the Politicks of Europe I apprehend nothing hostile at present from
                                Russia. Letters from Petersburgh of as late date as November last declare "that the temper of that Court is not
                                unfriendly to America" and Holland if not our friend, will at least not be our Enemy.
                            I shall lay your Letter, together with this answer before the General Assembly of this state. You will
                                therefore regard these sentiments on the subject of Peace not only as mine Individually, but the general voice of the
                                Representatives of the People. They will afterward remain on my public files as your Request. I am Sir your most
                                obedient Servant

                                Signd. J. Trumbull

                                Copy


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tupper, 23 May 1782
From: Tupper, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Albany May the 23rd A.D. 1782

                        I was this Day desired to attend Shim Kentfield the prisoner who was lately tried here as it was said he
                            had something of Importance to discover. He Informed me that General Holderman had Imployed two men to go from Canada to
                            Portsmouth in the month of June next and burn the Continantal 74 gun Ship and Some others for which they were to receive a
                            hundred guinies each, and that he (the Prisoner) was Invited to be one of the party. The discription he gives of the men
                            is as followeth viz. Lieut. Simpson Jenney, about 40 years old, five feet six Inches high, dark complexion, Blak eyes,
                            dark broun hair, considerably pitted with the Small pox, thinks he is an Englishman brought up at Sea. Balding about 22
                            years of age near six feet high, red hair considerable shorte and Straight, a light Yellowish complexion, large light eyes
                            what he calls white, a Straight trim well propotioned man, He also gave Information of Several persons corrisponding with
                            the Enemy who live nigh Conecticutt River nigh & above number four which I shall transmit to General Bellows when
                            oppertunity presents, and as I had no means of conveyance from hence to Portsmouth as the Quarter master is destitute of
                            horses & money, thought it my duty to give your Excellency the earliest notice in my power. I remain your
                            Excellencys most obedient humble Servant

                            Benj. Tupper Colo. Comt


Title: To George Washington from William Van Deursen, Sr., 23 May 1782
From: Van Deursen, William, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            New Haven May 23: 1782

                        I am Just Arived from St Croix Were I was Intrusted with a Book, for your Excellency, by John Hanson Esqr. of
                            that Island, which I Now forward By the Bearer, at the Same time was Desired to Inform your Excellency of his Health from
                            Your Humble Servant

                            Willm: Van Duersen


Title: To George Washington from William Lord Stirling Alexander, 24 May 1782
From: Alexander, William Lord Stirling,Hand, Edward,Nicola, Lewis
To: Washington, George

                            Fish Kill May 24th 1782

                        The board of Officers Appointed to examine into the principles of the late Arrangement of the Subalterns in
                            the Connecticut Line. Do Report it as their Opinion that the principles followed by the board of field Officers, in
                            forming that Arrangement, are widely different from those pointed out as the Basis of such settlement by the Board of
                            General Officers Convened near Dobbs’s ferry in August last, and which they Apprehend the said field Officers mistook the
                            meaning of, as they have disregarded the distinction between first and second Lieutenants intended to have been kept up by
                            the Arrangement of June 1778—and which the General Officers were of Opinion should not be departed from. This Board are
                            therefore of Opinion that the said late Arrangement ought not to be conclusive but that it ought to be revised and made
                            Consonant to the principles laid down by the General Officers in August last, by which this Board do not conceive it was
                            intended that the Rank of second Lieutenants continued by Brevet should Operate after Promotion to a Lieutenancy, except
                            in Cases where a second Lieutenant and Ensign have been promoted on the same day.

                            Stirling, Major Genl
                            Edwd Hand B.G.
                            Lewis Nicola Col. Inv.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 24 May 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Highlands, May 24. 1782.

                        The troops have not been able to draw any meat for this day or two past, there being neither fresh or salted
                            provisions at the post to issue. This is a disagreeable consideration in itself; but the present want of the troops is not
                            all. In case of any emergency, the posts and troops will be in the most critical situation. I have repeatedly represented
                            to mr Sands the necessity of having provisions in reserve for emergencies—He has as often informed me that they should
                            have his attention. I wrote him the day before yesterday, to know what provisions he had on hand. I have this day received
                            an answer from him, dated the 23d—in which he observes—"Mr Phelps promised us to forward on 500 barrels of salted beef,
                            which we intended as a reserve for West-point, part of which is expected this day—and we have flour coming down as fast as
                            possible—We hope in a few days to have it complete. We shall do all in our power to effect it."
                        The first of January last when the contract commenced, there were fifteen hundred barrels of salted
                            provisions in the magazines, and which I had spared no pains to get on—they are now empty. It is not in my power to oblige
                            mr Sands to keep the reserves complete. As early as the 6th of February, I called upon him to do it.
                            For the post to be without them is extremely hazardous—and as my duty points it out, so I beg leave to report and
                            represent it to your Excellency. I have the honor to be With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath

                            P.S. Doctor Woodward, surgeon’s mate of the 4. Massachusetts regiment, wishes to be transfered to
                                colonel Crane’s regiment of artillery. It is agreeable both to colonel Shepard and colonel Crane. If a transference
                                cannot take place doctor Woodward will resign—The inducement to it is the appointment of a mate of the hospital to be
                                surgeon of the 4th regiment. If your Excellency approves of it, I wish the transference may take place
                            immediately.

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 24 May 1782
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Dr Sir
                            War Office May 24 1782

                        The inclosed are forwarded by the direction of the president of Congress. I am D. Sir You Ob. servant

                            B. Lincoln

                    NB— The Inclosed were the Commision & Letter of Lieut. Sheppard of the 3d NJersey Regt requsts Dischargd which for want of proper Certificates attend  it—is transmitted to Colo. Dayton.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Machin, 24 May 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Machin, Thomas

                            Gentn
                            Head Quarters 24 May 1782

                        You will proceed to Fish Kill and there apply to Colonel Weissenfels for the proportion of the Levies
                            destined for your Line one half of which are for the Regiment of Artillery and the other half for the two Regiments of
                            Infantry.
                        You are to recieve no Men but such as are able bodied and every way fit for Soldiers.
                        So Soon as you have reced your proportion of Colo. Weissenfls Regiment you will Send them on to the Regiments
                            for which they are destined under the Care of an Officer and the remaining Officers will wait at fish Kill to recieve
                            those which will be Sent from Colo. Willets Regiment which are to be divided in the Same manner. Before you Send away the Recruits you will make a Return to me of the number you have reced. I am &c.
                            Signd

                            G. Washington