Title: General Orders, 17 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters, Newburgh Tuesday December 17th 1782
                            Parole Danbury
                            Countersigns Easton, Frederick

                                For the day tomorrow

                                Lt Colonel Cochran, Major Lansdale.

                                For duty tomorrow

                                6th Massachusetts regiment.

                        The first Massachusetts regiment to relieve the first regiment of Jersey on the lines tomorrow- The Quarter
                            Master Genl to furnish boats on application from the Commanding officer.
                        The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolves.
                        By the United States in Congress assembled
                        December 3d 1782
                        In the report of a Committee to whom was referred a letter of the 22d November from the Superintendant of
                            Finance and Secretary at war.
                        Resolved That after the last day of December instant, in lieu of the rations hitherto allowed to the
                            officers of the army, including those for servants without arms they shall be allowed subsistance money at the rate of four dollars
                            per month for each ration - provided that where circumstances in any case shall not permit the payment of such subsistence
                            money they shall draw their rations as heretofore.
                        ResolvedThat after the forementioned period in lieu of the pay and rations allowed to the officers of the
                            hospital Department including rations for servants they shall be entitled to the following monthly pay and subsistance
                            provided in like manner that where the said subsistance money shall not be paid they shall be entitled to draw an
                            equivalent number of rations at the rate of four dollars for each ration per month, Vizt
                        The Director one hundred & two dollars pay & sixty dollars’ subsistance.
                        The Deputy Director and Physician, each one hundred dollars pay and fortyeight dollars subsistance.
                        The Surgeons each ninety dollars pay and Forty dollars subsistance.
                        Apothecary and Purveyor each ninetytwo dollars pay and thirtytwo dollars subsistance.
                        Deputy Apothecary & Deputy Purveyor each Fifty-nine dollars pay & sixteen dollars Subsistance.
                        Mates each fortytwo dollars pay and twelve dollars subsistance.
                        Stewardseach thirtyone dollars pay and eight dollars subsistance.
                        Ward masters each twentyone dollars pay and eight dollars subsistance.


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 17 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Newburgh Decr 17th 1782

                        It was not until the arrival of the last eastern Mail, that I was favoured with your Letter of the 29th
                            Novembr. Of the Prisoners you mention to have returned from Canada, not more than five have come on to Camp; nor do I know
                            what has become of the remainder of them; I wish (if it can possibly be avoided) they may not be lost to the public.
                        The report of the relief of Gibralter has proved but too true, as it is confirmed by a late arrival from
                            Cadiz at Philadelphia; what effect this event will have, in accelerating or retarding a general pacification; time alone
                            must determine—By a recent account from Mr Harrison our Commercial Agent at Cadiz it appears that M. de la Perreuse of the
                            Sceptre, had with that Ship, and two Frigates returned from a successfull Enterprize against the Enemy’s possessions in
                            Hudsons Bay, having entirely destroyed the Establishment and Property of the English on that Coast, estimating the damage
                            at 10 Millions of Livres.
                        The preparations for the derangement of the Massachusetts’ & Connecticut Lines go on as well as I
                            expected—No promotions have yet been made by Congress; nor have we any intelligence of importance from any quarter. I am,
                            Dear Sir With great regard & esteem Your Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 17 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 17 Decr 82

                        I am favord with your Excellencys Letter of the 7th of this Month.
                        I Should be very happy in using every endeavour in my power to procure the release of Mr Reading and would
                            apply to Sir Guy Carleton in his behalf if such an application was like to be attended with the desired effect but Sir
                            Guy’s Command does not extend to Canada—on which the Posts in the back Country are dependant—General Haldimand is the
                            proper person to be applied to on this occasion and with him I have no communication—I never wrote him but one Letter
                            which he did not answer—As Mr Reading is not a Military Man there will be no impropriety in your Excellency’s applying in
                            his behalf and if you are of this opinion I will endeavour to transmit your Letter.
                        If however you think that an application from me will be best I will write General Haldimand on the
                            Subject—and in either case I will seek an Opportunity to convey the Letter to him which at this season will I fear be
                            something difficult; the only public communication between this Country and Canada has been by means of the Enemies
                            Vessells Station’d in the Lakes which must now be frozen over. With &c. &c.


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Johnson, 17 December 1782
From: Johnson, Jonathan
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Highlands Decmbr the 27/82.

                         Capt. Morris had retired before the resolve of the 19th Come to hand by a agreement made in the Line and has
                            sent this in Complyanc with the Resolve of the 19th of Novembr.

                            J. Johnson Lt Colo.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 17 December 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Office of Finance 17th December 1782

                        I do myself the Honor to enclose to your Excellency the Copy of a System for Issuing Provisions and Hospital
                            Stores entered into with the Secretary at War. As he is now on his Way to Head Quarters I shall take the Liberty to refer
                            your Excellency to him for those Observations which I should otherwise have written. I am Sir Your Excellency’s most
                            obedient & humble Servant

                            Robt Morris


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 17 December 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Office of Finance 17th December 1782

                        I have just now sent on the Counterparts of the Contract entered into with Messrs Duer and Parker. By the
                            next Post I will transmit your Excellency a Copy of it, and make some Observations in Answer to your Letter on the
                            Subject. In the Interim I pray you to believe me With sincere Respect and Esteem Your Excellency’s most obedient &
                            humble Servant

                            Robt Morris


Title: To George Washington from Rufus Putnam, 17 December 1782
From: Putnam, Rufus
To: Washington, George

                            sir
                            Camp Nere New Winsor December 17th 1782

                        Your favor of the 2d instent came to hand the 9th I beg leve to asure your Excelency, it was with reluctence
                            I brought my self to the resolution of retireing from service before the close of the War; but the peculier circumstance
                            of my family justified the measure in my owne mind; especially while in connection with my privet reasons; my leveing
                            service made an opening for so worthy a Carraitor as Colo. Brooks to continu, but the resolution of the Honbe Congress of
                            the 19th of November last puts the senior officer who retires in such circumstances; as by no means correspond with the
                            Ideas upon which I agreed to go out, therefore; as your Excelency observes there is now no opening unless my reasons are
                            very urgent indeed, I shall chuse to remain at present rather then accept the pecuniary rewards proposed by Congress while
                            I am to be deprived of every Honnorarry advantage.
                        Besides Colo. Shepard leveing service has put me in such a sittuation as my frinds might censure me should I
                            resigne at present.
                        I am much obliged to your Excelency for the communication, respecting the question of promotion in the
                            Massachusetts Line being yet before Congress.
                        should it be desided according to the opinion of the secretary at War—it will undoubtedly be agreable to me.
                            it is however a subject of too much delicacy for me personally to address Congress upon, if my services are considered in
                            such a point of vew as shall induce My General to mention them in a favorable light to that
                            Honnourable body I shall esteam it one of the most happy circumstances of my life.
                        but I beg leve to suggest that if by any means the Massachusetts line should not obtain that Justice which
                            they have long expected, within a reasonable time, or any arrangement of Command should take place which I cannot
                            reconsile to my own feelings as a Military Man, I trust I shall stand acquited by every one, possessed of those fine
                            fealings which Military service naturly begits in the Humain brest, should I then request leve to resigne I am with the
                            utmost sentiment of respect your Excelencys Very Humble Servent

                            Rufus Putnam


Title: From George Washington to Elisha Sheldon, 17 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 17th Decr 1782

                        The Dragoon brought me your Letter of the 13 Yesterday.
                        A Supply of Shirts Sufficient to give each Man two—will be sent here as fast as they can be transported from
                            Philadelphia—Six thousand have already arrived and I only delayed the issue of them till there should be enough here to
                            give each man one however if more do not arrive in a few days I shall order these to be issued by lot—so that the Corps
                            who draw them may have one ⅌ man the Clothier has orders to acquaint you the Moment he has your proportion Ready to
                            issue—Shoes may be had on application. I am Sir &c.


Title: General Orders, 18 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Wednesday Decr 18th 1782
                            Parole Gosport.
                            Countersigns Halstead, Illinois.

                                For the day tomorrow

                                Colonel Van Schaick

                                Major Reading

                        For duty tomorrow the 2d Massachusetts regiment.


Title: To George Washington from John Channing, 18 December 1782
From: Channing, John
To: Washington, George

                             New York December 18th 1782

                        May it please your Excellency—the Petition of John Channing, & Peter Taylor humbly settetth forth that
                            having been for many Years Freeholders & residents in South Carolina, from whence they retired long before the
                            present unhappy war took place, and have lived the one for upwards of fifteen, & the other twelve years in Great
                            Brittain, from whence they are this day arrived in the Rosbuck Packett, desirous to return to their Possessions in South
                            Carolina, humbly request of your Excellency permission to pass through the Jersies to Philadelphia & there to
                            apply to Congress.
                        Also Aaron Loocock, arrived in the same Packett, an Inhabitant of Charles Town, who left it soon after the
                            Capitulation, humbly craves to be included in your Excellency’s permission. And your Petitioners as in Duty boun’d will
                            ever pray

                            John Channing
                            Petr Taylor
                            Aaron Loocock


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 18 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                            Dear sir,
                            Newburgh 18th Decr 1782

                        From a letter which I received from home, by the last post, I expect—tho’ the matter was not finally
                            concluded, to call upon your Excelly for the £2000, (reckoning Dollars at six shillings) which you were so obliging as to
                            assure me you could procure me the loan of.
                        When the Bargain is concluded, which the Gentleman who has charge of my business expected would be the week
                            he wrote, he was to draw on me for the money—I, in consequence, shall apply to Your Excellency. With the greatest esteem
                            & regard I am Dr Sir, Your most Obt Servt

                            G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Bartholomew Dandridge, 18 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Dandridge, Bartholomew

                            Dear Sir,
                            Newburgh 18th Decr 1782.

                        Your favor of the 5th of last Month came safe to my hands—at this place; in the vicinity of which the Army is
                            cortored.
                        I am fully perswaded, from all Accts, that in Posey you have to deal with a most consummate villain; and from
                            your own that you have pursuaded the most prudent method of managing him, and for obtaining that justice wch is due to
                            Mr Custis’s Estate. I am clear in Sentiment with you, that he should be removed from his present Stewardship as soon as it
                            can be done with any degree of propriety; for be assured Sir that a Man so devoid of principle as
                            he is, to be guilty, not only of the barefaced frauds with which he is accused, but the abominable Sin of ingratitude,
                            will neglect no oppertunity of converting to his own use, when he can do it with impunity, every species of property that
                            is committed to his care—and will do it the more readily after his reputation will have suffered, than before—The most
                            hardened villain, altho’ he Sins without remorse, wishes to Cloak his iniquity, if possible, under specious appearances—but when character is no more, he bids defiance to the opinions of Mankind, and is under no other restraint than that of
                            the Law, & the punishments it inflicts. Posey, I am persuaded, will be no exception to this Rule—and that the sooner the
                            Estate can be taken out of his hands the less it will suffer, as it cannot be in worse.
                        With respect to the Valuation of the Stock, if upon an investigation of the matter, and comparing it with the
                            Scale of depreciation as settled by Congress, it shall be found, when reduced to Specie value, that the Sum amounts to
                            more than the number & kind of Cattle had of me are worth, let a just value be placed on them, and it will meet my
                            entire approbation—Mr Custis, as I wrote him, was alarmed at the nominal, without attending to
                            the real price of the Stock—for if 20 paper Dollars in those days, was valued at, &
                            would purchase no more than one Silver Dollar, valuing any Article at £6 Currency, was neither more nor less than fixing
                            it at a Dollar Specie. If therefore the valuation of Colo. Bassett when estimated by this rule—and fixed upon this
                            principle is not too high, there certainly can be no cause of complaint; & upon this footing I am willing to place the
                            matter. A Dollar in Specie may be a hundred pounds according to the Scale of depreciation, but if no Man will give more
                            than Six Shillings for it, that Sum is most certainly the intrinsic worth of it. It never was, nor is it now my intention
                            to put the Estate of Mr Custis to the least inconvenience to pay the Debt it owes me; on the contrary, if I ever get it at
                            all, to receive it at such a time, and in such a manner as to occasion the least possible distress, is all I aim at—therefore, as it seemed to be your opinion, and it was clearly mine, that the Stud & other Horses belonging to that
                            Estate (which were not wanted for immediate use) had better be sold—and as I really wanted one, & could have made it
                            very convenient to have taken both of his covering Horses, I directed Mr Lund Washington to get them in discount of my
                            Debt, but if I can obtain neither, without advancing the Money as an indifferent purchaser, I shall certainly decline.
                        This mode of gratifying my wants, as I have no more Idea of advancing Money (in truth I have it not to
                            advance) to an Estate that owes it to me, than I have of demanding it from one that cannot, with convenience pay it. If
                            therefore you cannot let me have one of the Stud horses upon the above terms, I must not only do without him but any other as I have not the means of purchasing.
                        The French Army have Embarked at Boston for the West Indies; but had not Sailed when I heard last from that
                            Quarter—Lord Howe has relieved Gibralter—The French have taken and destroyed the British Interest in Hudson’s Bay, to the
                            amount, it is said, of 10,000,000 of Livres—The British Fleet have left New York in two divisions,  & a detachment of
                            Troops it is reported are going from that place to the West Indies—but when they will embark is uncertain—A number of
                            Transports are collected there, but I believe they are only waiting for decisive orders from their Court, which in my
                            judgment would not Issue ’till after the meeting of Parliament, when the Parties for & against the American War will try
                            their strength. We shall then know whether we are to set down under our Vines and fig Trees in Peace, or prosecute the War.
                        It gives me much pleasure to hear that your good Mother, yourself, Mrs Dandridge & Family, are well—My
                            affectionate regards are presented to them all, in which your Sister, who arrived here the 30th of last Month, joins. I am
                            Most sincerely & Affectionately Dr Sir, Yr Very Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 18 December 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Roxbury Decemr 18th 1782

                        The enclosed letter from Capt. Banister, I received by the last weeks post, in consequence whereof I have
                            written to Capt. Day, to releive Capt. Banister on the first of January, and have informed him that I should represent the
                            matter to your Excellency for such further orders as you may think proper. I beg leave to submit it accordingly.
                        We have no news of consequence in this Quarter,—The French Fleet have not sailed—it is said to day that the
                            officers who have remained in Town since their arrival, will embarke the day after tomorrow,—They are greatly pleased, and
                            deeply impressed, with your Excellencys letter taking leave of them,—The Inhabitants of the Town of Boston pay great
                            attention to the officers, who on their part, express the most perfect satisfaction of the polite manner in which they are
                            treated, I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servant

                            W. Heath

                     Enclosure

                                Hond Sr
                                Springfield Decr 9th 1782

                            My Letters will find the way and Trouble the Genl out off—as well as in Camp—I must suppose it to be a
                                case of Necessity that Induces me to write this Time.
                            I am at my own request Deranged from the Army and Capt. Clop of the C.D.M. is arrangd in my Room—this is
                                Compleated on Principles of Justice—to myself & Family and Public—as Capt. Clop is a young shining officer and
                                must leave if I did not.
                            It is not to shun Fatigue or Danger in serving my Country that I Quit—for I consider that as
                                    ever have shared my Part of it—and the Pleasing reflection is my Reward.
                            It is with the utmost regret I leave service where I have received singuler favors, from high and shining
                                Charictors—and I ever intendd, to have seen the End of the War in service if alive—but Circumstances—alters
                                Cases—shall not Trouble the Genl with the many Reasons—but.
                            Sr as my authority to act at this Post in my Present Charictor will sease the 1st of Jany—and as some few
                                Recruits are coming in—some Deserters Deliverd—Prisoners from Captivity & other Soldiers Continually Pasing to
                                Victual—it seems Necessary an officer should releave me—Capt. Day of the 7th M.—Living at West Springfield—not able to
                                do Duty in Camp—so Certifyd by his Surgeon—is aquainted with and—(I beleave) able to do the Business here—if the Genl
                                should think it consistent—and direct him to Releave me at or before the 1st of Jany—or give me Directions on the
                                matter—I should be happy—I thot of writing Genl Patterson but concluded it a Quicker and safer way of inteligence—and
                                supposed it Consistant—as I was appointed by Genl Glover while at Boston.
                            A line from the Genl may serve the Public and greatly indulg your Hons most obedient Humbl Servt

                                Seth Banister

                                P.S. Col. Shepard has Quit Service & is at home.


Title: To George Washington from Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 18 December 1782
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                                Monsieur.
                                A Philadelphie le 18. Xbre Dec. 1782

                            J’ai l’honneur d’envoyer à Votre Excellence une lettre que je la supplie de faire partir en toute
                                diligence après l’avoir lue et cachetée. J’espere que l’arrivée de mes Depêches me permettra d’entrer dans plus de
                                details. Il importe de recommander aux Exprès de la chaine de se tenir prets à porter les paquets que je crois pouvoir
                                expedier incessament par un second courrier. J’ai l’honneur d’être avec un respectueux attachement, Monsieur, De Votre
                                Excellence, le très humble et très obéissant serviteur

                                Le che. de la luzerne

                        TranslationSir,Philadelphia 18 Decr 82
                            I have the honor to inclose your Excellency a Letter which, after having read and sealed I am to request
                                you to forward with all possible dispatch—I hope that the arrival of my Dispatches will enable me to be more
                                particular—It will be necessary to recommend to the Chain of Expresses to hold themselves in readiness to carry on the
                                dispatches which I shall have to send by another Courier.I have the honor to be &c.

                                Chev. de la luzerne

                     Enclosure

                                Sir,

                                    c.18 December 1782

                            I this instant learn by an Express arrived from the Capes that the Danae entered the day before yesterday
                                and in a thick fog had the misfortune to get aground—probably she will be got off—She is within the Capes—She left
                                france 8 November—the Express has not brought a single Letter and I do not expect them till tomorrow or the day
                                after—If there are any for you—they shall be sent on with the greatest despatch—& if there are none you shall
                                have an Express with the news—Its Said there are many Packets for the Army & 180 000 Livres.
                            The only frenchmen of our Acquaintance on board are General Du Portail & Mr de Gouvion.
                            The whole of the force at Cadiz as well Land as Naval are destined for the West Indies.

                                le Chev. de la luzerne


Title: To George Washington from William Lord Stirling Alexander, 18 December 1782
From: Alexander, William Lord Stirling
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Albany December 18th 1782.

                        On the 16th I was honord with the receipt of your Excellency’s letter of the 9th with the enclosures there in
                            mentioned. after fully Considering the busyness; I concluded it would be best to Commit the Management of it to Lt Colonel
                            Olney who is at Saratoga, and will best know which of his Officers are the most proper for the interprize; the enclosed
                            letter which went off Yesterday contains such Matters as occured to me as necessary to say to him on the Occasion. Your
                            Excellency will perceive that I have desired the party to return by way of Kinderhook I did it as much the Safest route by
                            which they Could retreat; when they are once there it would be best to let them proceed immediately to Head Qrs Newburgh,
                            and if your Excellency has no particular objections to it I will give such directions to be delivered to the Officer on
                            his Arrival at Kinderhook. I have the honor to be your Excellency’s Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant

                            Stirling,

                     Enclosure

                                Dear Sir
                                Albany Decr 17th 1782

                            I yesterday received a Letter from His Excellency the Commander in Chief, on a subject you will best
                                understand by reading that Letter, of which I now enclose you a Copy, as well for that purpose as to inform your mind
                                fully how delicately His Excellency wishes this business should be handled. The Execution requires the utmost
                                dexterity and secrecy, and from every circumstance I cannot commit the direction to a more proper person than
                                yourself.
                            I think the detachment need not exceed a Captain two Subs. and fifty privates, but if you think any less
                                number sufficient I leave it to your discretion. There are at present a number of deserters from the Continental Army
                                dispers’d over the Country call’d the Grants, the apprehending of whom would be of signal service to the public, on
                                this occasion will serve as an excellent blind to the main object of the expedition. The party should be furnished
                                with actual orders to take and secure those deserters; none of them except the commanding Officer need to know of any
                                other design, they may give out that they are going as far as Connecticut River or perhaps as high as Cahos, but they
                                must take care their routs naturally lead to the habitations of the two men wanted, and at a proper distance on this
                                side of them should divide into two parties, and to manage their march as to arrive at the two
                                houses nearly at the same time and the moment they have made their stroke to push off South into the Massachusetts
                                State where I believe they will find the people more friendly to them, especially when they come to understand how
                                high the crimes are, for which these men are apprehended, which may then be freely communicated to them, however no
                                such confidence is to be plac’d in them as may endanger the escape or rescue of the prisoners. The Officer and his
                                party will then proceed Southwesterly ’till they come about East of Kinderhook, cross the River there, and come up on
                                the West side to this place. In passing through the grants if the party should be in the vicinity of Mr Chittendon or
                                any of their magistrates, it will be best for an Officer to wait on them, inform them of their design of apprehending
                                deserters and ask their advice and assistance necessary to effect their people and to prevail on
                                them to furnish them with Sleighs and horses, for which they shall be paid in Cash or Morris’s Notes.
                            It would be best if the party could take six or eight Sleighs with them. The Officer should as early as
                                possible give you information of the event of his attempt if it has succeeded or the intent of it fully discovered you
                                will immediately forward the enclos’d Letter to Mr Chittenden. I am Your &c.


Title: To George Washington from Antoine-Charles du Houx, baron de Vioménil, 18 December 1782
From: Vioménil, Antoine-Charles du Houx, baron de
To: Washington, George

                                Monsieur
                                a boston le 18 Xbre December 1782

                            La vénération dónt cette armée a été pénétrée pour votre Exélence des le premier instant ou elle luy a
                                été presentée par M. le cte de rochambeau, Sa confiance dans Ses talents, et La Sagesse de Ses ordres, le Souvenir
                                inéfacable de Ses bontés, de Ses attentions, et de l’exemple qu’elle lay a donné dans des circonstances périlleuses,
                                L’approbation, Les regrets, et Les voeux dónt elle veut bien L’honorer encor a Son départ, Sont autant de motifs qui
                                doivent luy répondre qu’il n’est point de chef ny d’officiers particulier de L’armée, qui vient de métre confié, qui
                                ne soit aussi touché que flatté de son Suffrage, et qui ne regrette infiniment que le Secret de notre destination, les
                                ait privi de l’agrément de luy etre encor presenté par M. le cte de rochambeau pour luy rendre des respects pour la
                                remercier, et luy montre des visages reconnoissants.
                            apres avoir eté L’intreprette de leur Sentiments pour votre Exélence je la Supplie de permettre que  Saisine encor cette occasion de l’assurer que tous ceux quelle ma permis de luy vouër, Seront aussi
                                durable que le profond respect avec lequel je Suis de votre Exelence Le tres humble et tres obeissant Serviteur

                                Vioménil

                                P.S. dans l’instant M. le Mis de vaudreuil ordonne que Son escadre Soit prette a mettre dimanche a
                                    la voile, et suivant toute apparance. Longue cette Lettre  a votre Exelence nous ne
                                    Serons plus en vue de ce continent.
                                je Supplie votre Excelence de vouloir bien faire passer ce pacquet a M. le chev. de la luzerne.

                        Translation
                            The veneration with which this Army was penetrated, from the first moment they had the honor of being
                                presented to your Excellency by Count Rochambeau, their confidence in your talents, & the wisdom of your
                                Orders, the remembrance of your kindness & attention & the Examples you set them in every critical
                                circumstance, the approbation, Regret & wishes you have honored them with at their departure are so many
                                motives from which, you may be assured, that there is not an individual officer in this Army who is not as sensibly
                                touched as flattered by your Suffrage and who does not exceedingly regret that the secret of our destination deprived
                                them of the pleasure of being again presented by Count Rochambeau to pay their Respects to your Excellency and to
                                express to you their feelings on the occasion.
                            Having thus interpreted their Sentiments to your Excellency permit me Sir, to embrace this Opportunity to
                                assure you, that the Sentiments you have already permitted me to express to you, will be as durable as the profound
                                respect with which I have the honor to be &c.

                                 (Signed) Viomenil

                                P.S. This instant the Marquis de Vaudreuil has orderd the Squadron to be ready for Sea on Sunday
                                    & from every appearance, when this Letter Reaches you, we shall be out of Sight of this continent.
                                I beg your Excellency to forward the inclosed to the Chev. de la luzerne.


Title: From George Washington to Marinus Willett, 18 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Willett, Marinus

                            Dear Sir,
                            Newburgh 18th Decr 1782

                        Your letter of the 29th Ulto from Albany, came safe to my hands. I am glad to find you enter so readily into a
                            measure which appears very practicable in my eyes, provided the Troops for the Enterprise can be properly accomodated.
                        I have again written to the Secretary at War respecting Clothing for the York State Troops, and desired Colo.
                            Tilghman, who left this on Sunday last for Philadelphia to enforce it, not only on him, but on
                            the Clothier General also; that, if it can be had, it may be sent up without delay. From the Deputy Clothiers Store at
                            this place, I could furnish Vests and Woolen hose enough for the State Troops—and Woolen Caps, Socks, and Mitts
                            sufficient for the whole party.
                        Indian Shoes, or Moccasons, I must depend upon you to procure—as also the Snow Shoes, of which I do not see
                            the necessity for each Mans having a pair tho’ some may be indispensably necessary—I well remember to
                            have directed (two years ago) a number of Snow Shoes to be made; and if I mistake not it was done; but
                            I do not suppose any dependence is to be had on them at this time. It may not be amiss however to enquire of General
                            Schuyler (to whom I think I wrote on the Subject) the Qr Master—or any other who may be likely to give information,
                            whether they are are yet in being.
                        To provide & carry Scaling Ladders from the Settlement would at once announce your design, & more
                            than probably defeat the Enterprise—at any rate they would be troublesome to transport, & must impede the rapidity
                            of your movements, on which every thing depends. it appears to me therefore that the attempt would be improper, and that
                            the difficulty may be surmounted by carrying a few Tools (to wit Axes, Saws, Augers & a Gouge) with which, at a
                            convenient time and place, a sufficient number of Ladders might soon & easily be made.
                        The mode you propose for obtaining the Sleighs, & Assembling the Troops,
                            I approve of preferably to the Qr Masters having any Agency in the business
                            as I do of the time named for the execution if the Clothing can be got to you in
                                Season, but having doubts on this head I should be glad to know to how late a
                                period the Expedition can be delayed with safety, on Acct of the Ice on the Oneida Lake—&
                            goodness of the Sleighing.
                        If there is a necessity for a Party to preceed the Sleighs a day or two, to mark
                            the Rout, it ought to consist of picked men of tried fidility; & even then, the chance of discovery is greater
                            than it otherwise wd be.
                        The strength of your Party should be proportioned to that of the Garrison you attempt, for which reason every possible means should be used to obtain the most accurate
                            acct of it—If you have men to set the enemy at defiance, in case of their discovering you previous to the Assault—or
                            Miscarriage therein, it is all that is necessary—more than these would render your movements unwieldy  &
                                slow—consequently more liable to discovery in your preparation and on the
                            March.

                            I should be glad to hear from you again on this head by some safe conveyance;
                                and if matters can be properly prepared for the Enterprise, &
                            nothing more than I know of at this time to hinder it, I will be at Albany when
                            you March, that I may be at hand to remove difficulties if any should occur. with great esteem and regard I am
                            Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. It will be essentially necessary to fix your Eyes upon some one or more persons (deserters or
                                otherwise) who have been in and are well acquainted with the Enemies works—and seize them at the moment they are
                                wanted that you may have them as guides.

                            G.W.

                    Words in square brackets are taken from the draft as part of the ALS is mutilated.


Title: General Orders, 19 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Thursday Decr 19th 1782
                            Parole Kittlewell,
                            Countersigns London, Malwood

                                For the day tomorrow

                                Major Fish, Major Oliver.

                                For duty tomorrow

                                the 8th Massachusetts regiment.

                        At the General courtmartial of which Colonel Greaton is President Lieutenant Meachem of the 3d Massachusetts
                            regiment was tried "Charged with absenting himself from his regiment beyond the limitation of his furlough and neglecting
                            to join it when notified so to do agreable to the resolve of Congress respecting absent officers." The court on mature
                            considerations are of opinion that Lieutenant Meachem has exceeded the limitation of his Furlough, that he has been
                            notified to join his regiment agreable to the resolve of Congress of December 6th 1779 respecting absent officers; and
                            that he has neglected so to do, or to give satisfactory reasons for his continuance of absence, and sentence that he be
                            cashired.
                        The Commander in cheif approves the opinion of the Court.


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 19 December 1782
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters Ashly River December 19th 1782

                        I do myself the honor to inclose your Excellency a copy of my letter to Congress containing an account of the
                            evacuation of Charles Town, on which happy event I beg leave to congratulate you. It has been long in expectation, and for
                            some time past seemed to hang in doubtful suspence. This, together with the liberation of all the militia on parole in the
                            southern States, places them on the most pleasing footing; but I am affraid they will turn their attention too much to
                            private repose for the public safety.
                        By the inclosed piece of intelligence it appears New York is to be evacuated in the spring. The person who
                            gives this information has a pretty good opportunity to know the designs of the enemy. Should the evacuation of New York
                            take place, and the War continue our land force I imagine will be employed against Canada, or suffer a reduction to
                            promote an increase of the Navy. The last will become much the most important to the American interest, if the enemy
                            evacuate the United States. But a report prevails here, which I think will most assuredly bring about a Peace; that is,
                            the Spaniards having taken Gibralter. It is said the Duke de Crillon stormed the place, and carried it with the loss of
                            ten thousand men. The account comes from different quarters, and I believe may be depended on.
                        In consequence of a resolution of Congress authorising me to retain only such of the late levies of North
                            Carolina, as I might think necessary, together with the difficulty of subsisting a large body of troops, which difficulty
                            increases daily, I have dismissed all but one Regiment, which from the short time they were engaged,
                            the State of Finance, the expence of cloathing, and the prospect of repose, I hope your Excellency will approve of. It is
                            so late in the season, and a march to the northward so tedious I shall detain the Legion untill I have your farther orders
                            if I can subsist them of which I am not a little doubtful.
                        I wrote to your Excellency respecting the fortifications of Charles Town; and am now fully convinced that it
                            cannot be made tenable but at a great expence, and with a larger force than the importance of the place can Authorise. I
                            wish to have your opinion on the subject as early as possible. In the mean time I shall recommend the plan of
                            fortification mentioned in my former letters.
                        I have fixed upon no place yet for hutting the troops for the Winter; but I have in view James Island both
                            for health, convenience, and protection of the trade of the State, which will be much infested by Privateers from St
                            Augustine. Cloathing I am in hopes we shall be able to obtain a sufficiency to put the troops in a comfortable condition;
                            and could we effect contracts for subsistance, we should have an agreeable repose after a long, and painful service. The
                            issue of the southern operations I flatter myself must be no less pleasing to you than to me, and the cloud is totally
                            dispelled that hung upon the Southern Hemisphere with such a threatening brow. I have the honor to be with great
                            respect—Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

                            Nath. Greene


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 19 December 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                        Sir.

                            Office of Finance 19th December 1782

                        I have now the Honor to enclose to your Excellency the Copy of a Contract entered into by Messrs Duer
                            & Parker with me for supplying Rations within the States of New York and New Jersey during the Year 1783.
                        In the Letter which your Excellency did me the Honor to write on the thirty first of October last was contained
                            sundry Observations for which I again beg Leave to return you my Thanks. I hope and believe that these Gentlemen will act
                            in such a Manner as to attract your Excellency’s Esteem, and instead of endeavoring to screen themselves by the Letter,
                            where to the true Spirit of their Contract. I have however drawn the Agreement in such Form as will I hope obviate most if
                            not all of the Inconveniences which you were formerly subjected to.
                        The sixth Article contains the provisionary Clause against Provisions of bad Quality, and altho it does not
                            entirely come up to your Excellency’s Ideas will I trust prove effectual. No Contractors would have put themselves so
                            entirely into the Power of an Inspector as to let him name the Prices of Articles furnished by them. This Caprice or a Fit
                            of ill Humor might, they say, prove ruinous, and as they have no Voice in the Nomination, their Property would be exposed
                            beyond what any Prudence would justify, and therefore beyond what the Public have a Right to require. In the present Form
                            your Excellency will observe that the Inspector has a Right to reject the Article entirely, and oblige them to paying
                            Money, which may always be done without much inconvenience to the Troops, except for the Articles of
                            Bread and Flesh which would prove so heavy a Loss as to prevent them from attempting to furnish bad Articles in future.
                            And as to the Bread and Beef, if the Inspector should in one Instance procure a Supply at their Expence I am persuaded
                            they would for similar Reasons never risque a second.
                        The seventh Article is of a general Nature for the most extensive Purposes, and will therefore readily
                            comprehend within it any Articles of salted Provisions or hard Bread which you may think proper to have lept on Hand, as
                            well as any additional Magazine which you may cause to be laid up at West Point.
                        You will observe Sir, that to obviate the Artifices which might be used with Respect to the smaller Parts of
                            the Ration, it is provided that the Contractors shall issue no due-Bills, but either provide the Article or pay the Money.
                            This is, I beleive, the most effectual Check, for they must, if compelled to adhere to it, either provide the Articles
                            themselves of a good Quality, or be three Months in Advance for a considerable Sum of Money without any Compensation.
                        The Vinegar will, I hope, be furnished good, but I have agreed with Mr Duer that he need not furnish any
                            before the Month of June. The Reason is this—he assures me that good Vinegar cannot, until then, be procured, and that the
                            Money may be employed more for the Benefit of the Troops in some other Way—Beleiving this to be the Case, and being
                            convinced that the Article is of most Importance during the hot Season, I gave my Consent. And altho this forms no written
                            Agreement, yet I must intreat of your Excellency to countenance such Arrangements as may carry the Substance and Spirit of
                            it into Effect, for the mutual Conveniences of all the Parties concerned, and I persuade myself the Contractors will
                            endeavor to render it as agreable as possible.
                        I will add while I am upon this Subject that by the present Regulation for Officers Subsistence they will
                            have somewhat more than the Ration Price for every Ration where they are, and much more when within the Bounds of some
                            other Contracts. This Circumstance, without being very expensive to the United States, will, I imagine, contribute much to
                            their Convenience. I have warmly recommended it to the Contractors to be upon Terms of Friendship with the Army, and I
                            flatter myself with the Hope that all Things may harmonize as to promote those Plans of Oeconomy which must always form
                            one Part of the Remedy for all Grievances arising from the Want of Money. The other Part, and now indeed the principal
                            Part, which is an Increase of Revenue, depends on the States. The Defect in this Branch lies principally at present in the
                            Defects of their Modes of Collection. The Remedies which have been and those which may be proposed, will, I am sure, be
                            warmly seconded by your Excellency, and I trust they will meet the Support of every well Wisher to our Cause. A Cause which
                            I think can never be crowned with Success until it shall be supported by doing Justice to all who have exerted themselves
                            in its Support. With perfect Respect and Esteem I have the Honor to be Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient &
                            humble Servant

                            Robt Morris


Title: To George Washington from William Lord Stirling Alexander, 19 December 1782
From: Alexander, William Lord Stirling
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Albany December 19: 1782.

                        I am honored with your Excellency letter of the 11th and have enquired of Mr Quackenbush the A.D.Q.M., about
                            the bear Skins, he tells me that on the receipt of Col.. Pickering’s letter, he engaged the Skins and that they are now
                            dressing at Saratoga. But as I know how little dependence is to be placed on that Quarter, I will endeavour to procure
                            four of the very best from Skenecteda, where I am told there is plenty; If they should all come, there will be no harm
                            done, as I shall want a Set of them for myself.
                        I am Glad to hear of Mrs Washingtons Arrival at your Excellencys Quarters it must help to Cheer the Gloom of
                            the Northside of the Highlands; Lady Stirling, Kitty, & Miss Brown with much Affection desire their respectfull
                            regards may be presented to her and to your Excellency; they promise themselves when good Sleying Comes a Jaunt as far as
                            Claremont, and in the hope of meeting Mrs Washington there. permit me to trouble your Excellency with my most respectfull
                            Regards also to Mrs Washington and to wish you all a Cheerfull & Merry Christmass. with very Sincere Affection I
                            am your Excellency’s Most Humbe Servt

                            Stirling,


Title: To George Washington from Lilburn Williams, 19 December 1782
From: Williams, Lilburn
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Annapolis Decr 19th 1782

                        I am a senior Captain in the Maryland line and from my indisposition at present which has been long standing
                            am obliged to apply to your Excellency to be considered on the list of Supernumorary Officers from this state. you’l
                            oblige me much by a line in Answer to this. I am sir your most Obt Hble Sert

                            Lilburn Williams
                            Capt. Maryd line


Title: General Orders, 20 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Sunday December 20th 1782
                            Parole Newcastle
                            Countersigns Orangetown Philadelphia

                                For the day tomorrow

                                Colonel Putnam, Lt Col. Mellon.

                                For duty tomorrow

                                the 5th Massa. regiment.

                        All the Marques, Wall and other tents in the line are to be delivered to the Quartermaster General as soon as
                            the troops have removed into their hutts—particular attention must be paid by the regimental Quarter masters to see that
                            the Marques and tents are perfectly dry and in good order when they are returned in. the Quarter Master General will make
                            an exact return by the 20th January to Head Quarters of the number and quality of the tents issued last Campaign to the
                            several regiments reporting at the same time the number and condition of those returned in by each corps—measures are then
                            to be taken to repair them compleatly for the next Campaign.


Title: From George Washington to William Duer, 20 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Duer, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Decr 20. 1782

                        Apprehensive that the passage of the North River, will soon be obstructed, if not totally shut up by the ice;
                            so as to render it impossible to transport Cattle or other supplies from the eastern side to this Army—I have thought it
                            necessary to mention the circumstance, in season, that you might be provided against the contingency, and fall upon some
                            resource to insure the supplies thro’ the severity of the Winter. I am Sir &c.


Title: To George Washington from Ebenezer Gray, 20 December 1782
From: Gray, Ebenezer
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Windham Decr 20th 1782

                        I have been Hond; with your Excellys Letter of the 11th Ulto directing my return to the Army, and am very
                            unhappy to inform your Excelly that I am in so low & weak state of Health, that it is not in my Power to Join the
                            Army at Present, as the Recovery of my Health was the only motive which inducd me to Ask for Leave of Absence, The same
                            Reasons continuing and my want of strength & ability to perform so long a Journey makes it necessary for me to
                            request your Excellys farther Indulgence until I can so far recover as to be able to Join the Army without any farther
                            Injury to my Health, which I assure your Excelly shall not be abused to any unnecessary Absence. I have the Honor to be
                            with the greatest Esteem your Excellys most Obedt & Humbe Servt

                            Ebenr Gray


Title: To George Washington from John Jameson, 20 December 1782
From: Jameson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Horseneck December 20th 1782

                        I Received your’s of the 17th directed to Col. Sheldon and am happy to here that there is a supply of Shirts
                            and Shoes to be issued soon I hope it will not be long before the Clothier gives the necessary information as the Regiment
                            is in great want of those necessary Articles.
                        I am sorry to inform your Excellency that I am greatly destressed to procure Forage for the Regiment I have
                            no Teams to transport any and no chance of procuring any in this part of the Country. I shall be reduced to the necessity
                            of moving the Regiment to the neighbourhood of Saw pitts and Kings Street tomorrow or of sending the Horses five or six
                            Miles every day to procure as much Forage as they can eat in the night.
                        If the Weather was moderate I could move the Horses to such places as I could procure Forage but at present I
                            must procure covering for the Men also.
                        Inclosed is a Letter which I Recd last night from Mr Pomeroy D.M. General also a Copy of a Letter from Mr
                            Pomeroy to Jabez Botsford esqr. I am with esteem Your Excellencys most Obedt & humble Servt

                            John Jameson
                            Lt Col. 2d R.L.D.

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Hartford 14th Decr 1782

                            I am directed to inform you what Provision can be made for Forage for your Regt the ensuing Winter, in
                                some of the Western Towns in this State; as the requisition is new and unexpected, I beg leave to inform you that I
                                have little or nothing in my Power for its Execution, what in me lies is at your service, I have a little Hay at New
                                Town in the Hands of Jabez Botsford Esqr. who will deliver the same to you & perhaps assist you as well as any
                                body else for further supplies—I have reasons why it will not be expedient for me to attempt making a Bargain at
                                present—I hope in a few days it may consistantly be done in the mean time if you Should be ordered to the Necessity of
                                using force in a few instances it will pave the way for buying.
                            Inclos’d is an open letter to Mr Botsford which you will be kind enough to seal & deliver--
                                provided you think proper with such Slender Provision to throw yourself into those Quarters—I will meet you there if
                                you desire it & appoint the time, & concert the best possible ways
                                & means—I am Sir your most Obedent & humble Servant.

                                Ralph Pomeroy.
                                D.Q.M.

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Hartford 14th Decr 1782

                            You will please to deliver to Col. Sheldon on Order all the Hay and other Forage you have on hand and
                                assist him in procuring the Forage he may want for his Horses and other things and accomodations he and his Officers
                                and Men are entitled to receive, which I cannot enumerate until I am favoured with his estimates and Orders from the
                                Q.M. General—I am Sir Your most humble Servt

                                Ralph Pomeroy
                                D.Q.M.

                                P.S. I hope you will not fail of doing every thing in your Power for their present subsistance.


Title: To George Washington from Amelia Leigh Lloyd, 20 December 1782
From: Lloyd, Amelia Leigh
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Annapolis Decbr 20th 1782

                        I had the pleasure of receiving a letter from You on the sixth instant with a Packet of letters from My
                            Friends in England dated August when they were all perfectly well I must now take the liberty of beging you will be so
                            good as to forward the enclosed for New York—I am much afraid you will think me very troublesome in sending letters so
                            often but must trust to Your goodness to excuse it—I beg you will present my best Compliments to Mrs Washington—I am Sir
                            Your very humble Servt

                            J. Lloyd


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 20 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters December 20th 1782

                        In consequence of a Resolve of Congress I some time since directed an inscription with some devices to be
                            engraved on the Cannon to be presented to Count Rochambeau & inclosed is a Certificate of Genl Knox relative to
                            the execution of the work and its price.
                        In answer to Mr Billings application to me for his pay I informed him I would write you on the subject and
                            did not doubt you would order Payment to be made. I have the honor to be.


Title: To George Washington from William Stephens Smith, 20 December 1782
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             Dobbs’s Ferry Decr 20th 1782

                        Enclosed I have the honor of forwarding a Petition directed to your Excellency, with a Letter from Sir Guy
                            Carleton to Govr Harrison, received this Day by flagg from the Enemy.
                        I have receipted for, one hundred and eighty seven Guineas & one half Guinea & one spanish
                            milled Dollar, forwarded by Mr Morgan Secretary to Sir Guy Carleton, by Capt. Stewart of the Qr Masters Department.
                        Inclosed is Mr Morgans Letter to me, & I shall expect your Excellency’s Orders upon the Subject.
                        The Guard Ships retired on the 18th & we may expect no Obstructions in the River, excepting what the
                            Season may produce. A large fleet will sail in the morning from New York (said to be for Europe) a Number of Inhabitants
                            have engaged their passage and I am inform’d they also take troops with them but I expect to be enabled to furnish your
                            Excellency with a particular Account respecting them in a few Day’s—In my last of the 12th Inst. I expressed a wish to be
                            permitted to send  (the Refugee confined in the Provost) on Parole to New York, in addition to
                            the reasons then mentioned, I will add that I think I can employ him to advantage. I have the honor to be your Excellency’s
                            Most Obliged Humble Servt

                            W. S. Smith Lt Colo.

                     Enclosure

                                Sir,
                                New York Decr 18th 1782

                            The Commander in Chief having been acquainted by H.E. Genl Washington that you have orders to receive
                                from hence a sum of money for the use of Governor Harrison of Virginia, I am directed to convey, by the present flag
                                this money amounting to the sum of 187 1/2 Guins. & 1 Dollar into your hands, to abide any further order, and
                                for which you will be pleased to give your receipt. I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedt humble Servant

                                M: Morgann
                                Secretary.


Title: General Orders, 21 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Saturday Decr 21st 1782
                            Parole Quakertown,
                            Countersigns Ringwood, Simsbury.

                                For the day tomorrow

                                Major Trescot, Majr Gibbs.

                                For duty tomorrow,

                                the Maryland Detachment.


Title: To George Washington from François-Jean de Beauvoir, marquis de Chastellux, 21 December 1782
From: Chastellux, François-Jean de Beauvoir, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                            Dear general
                            Philadelphie decembre 21. 1782

                        Was my mind only activated by pride or self love, on the moment where I must leave this continent, I could
                            enjoy a perfect satisfaction. your Kind and polite letter is indeed a glorious tittle above my expectations and still more
                            above my deserts; but, my dear general, I love too much the man that I admire; and while I am proud to enjoy his esteem
                            and benevolence, I regrett his presence and conversation. your friendship is an honour that makes me happy; but it is in
                            the mean time a source of pleasure that is lost for ever. for ever! god forbid it! no, my dear general, let me cherish the
                            hope of seing your excellency upon a continent that you conquered by your virtues and your fame, while you was defending
                            this by your arms. let me hope to see you amidst the applause of a numerous and sensible people, turn your eyes towards
                            me, as toward a man that you love; and let every honest and delicate soul envy to me your smile that happy time is always
                            before my eyes. sure, general, either peace or war will make me enjoy once more your presence. I wish it be peace. the
                            letters you have just received cannot fix our ideas. among these letters there is one of the marquess directed to me; and
                            as nobody else received any news from him I conclude that general duportail who is not yet arrived is entrusted with
                            some for your excellency. I’ll nevertheless transcribe here a few lines of the Marquess’s letter. "We have here, says he,
                            two englishmen, and the work of a peace is not interrupted; but the conclusion is not perhaps so near as it is to be
                            wished. I continue at Paris and I do not know when I’ll be allowed to leave this country, my departure does not depend
                            upon me...I blush to give such an extent to my furlough...should peace take place, I’m determined to come over to
                            america." The other articles of his letter concern family connexions, his lady gave him a very small daughter born at
                            seven months. the mother and child were both well. when the letters are all arrived and the despatches from the court
                            decyphered, your excellency shall Know better of the circumstances in Europe. I believe that count de Rochambeau will
                            tarry here some days, and before my departure I’ll have the honour to recall me to your memory and tell me once more with
                            the deepest sense of gratitude and respect, dear general-- your most humble and obedient servant

                            le chev. de chastellux

                            I beg leave to present my best respects to Mrs Washington. the letter directed to the marquess will be
                                safely delivered at my arrival in france.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Converse, 21 December 1782
From: Converse, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Goshen Decr 21st 1782

                        In complyance with your Excellency’s Order of the 26th & the Resolve of Congress of the 19th Ult., I
                            Signify to your Excellency my wishes to Retire from Service Agreeable to the resolve above recited, upon conditions that I
                            Shall not be liable to be calld into Service hereafter, to be commanded by Officers that are now Junior to me. I am with
                            respect your Excellency’s Obedt Humble Servt

                            Thos Converse


Title: From David Humphreys to Henry Emanuel Lutterloh, 21 December 1782
From: Humphreys, David
To: Lutterloh, Henry Emanuel

                            Sir
                             Decr 21st 1782

                        The General wishes you to make to him a return of the Riding Horses of the Army, which
                            draw forage; also an Estimate of the Forage which will be required to feed them, in order to transmit to Philadelphia. I
                            am Sir Your Most Hble Servt

                            D. Humphrys A.D.C.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Powell, 21 December 1782
From: Powell, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Honoured Sir
                            2d River Decbr 21st 1782

                        I think it my duty to inform you of a correspondance that is to be opene’d. between a person in New York and
                            some person in this place. if I do not except the offer, as it has been made to me, and I am to determin it by the first
                            of January. The proposials that was made to me are these. by an unknown friend as he stiles himselfe. To write to Collo.
                            Delancey informing him that I would do what lay in my power to serve Goverment, according to his request and would exert
                            myselfe to the utmost. and to Inclose this to one directed To D.P. and to be left at Francis’s Tavern--
                            near the Exchange. and that he would alow me two hundred pounds a year. To transact his business in The Country. which is
                            To make oute of such goods as he shall direct. and send in the Country, as the business for the Collo.
                            would not be so great. but I could do his too. and by doing this he would inshure me a place in the Armey, of great
                            proffit. if the Collo. was satisfied with my services. and if I would not except the offer to keep it secret. that he did
                            it only out of kindness to me. and that he knew several that would be glad to except of it. what answer to send I did not know. I was going to refuse. but thinking  it my duty to let you
                            know it first, and to have your approbation. I sent him word that I did not like to undertake any thing unless I was shure
                            to go through with it. and that I would concider upon it. and give him an Answer by the first of January. I have since
                            sent word that the Speers are jealous of me. and Expected to be bound over to Court for going to Bergen. and did not find
                            the difficulty I expected but would give him a  answer some time the begining of Jany. These
                            Speers are the only persons about here that are not been concern’d in this clinedistine trade. and are thought to be the
                            persons that will detect any bodey. if the General thinks it will be of any service to find out this business. and to
                            engage with them please’d to send word to Lieut. John Speer. at Second River. to take me and bring me before you. as a
                            suspected person. if the Speers does it. they will not have any mistrust. I have done what I could to cause such as are thought to be friends to Goverment amongst to put confidence in me.
                            and am look’d upon within a Month as a friend to Goverment—I Am your Excellanceys Most Obdt and Most Hble Servt

                            Thomas Powell


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

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Sunday Decr 22d 1782
                            Parole Tavistock.
                            Countersigns Unity Windham

                                For the day tomorrow

                                Colonel Cortlandt, Majr Darby.

                                For duty tomorrow

                                the 2d Jersey regiment.

                        Colonel Putnam—Colonel H. Jackson and Major Gibbs are to constitute a board & meet tomorrow at such
                            place as shall be agreed upon by them, for the purpose of ascertaining the facts relative to an agreement said to have been
                            made between Captain Jackson of the 3d & Captain Pilsbury of the 6th Massachusetts regiments in consequence of the
                            resolution of Congress of the 7th of August and previous to the 26th ultimo, by which the former (as is alledged) was to
                            have continued in service in the room of the latter.
                        All concerned are directed to attend—The Board will report the circumstances, and their opinion thereon
                            before the 25th instant.
                        A party proportioned to the number of Tools which the Quarter Master General can supply is to be employed daily in opening a communication between Head Quarters  & Camp, untill that necessary business is compleated—The Assistant Quarter Master with the army will direct a proper
                            person to superintend the work.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 22 December 1782
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Philada 22 Decr 1782

                        I have been honored with your Excellencys Letter of the  covering an extract of a letter from Sir Guy Carleton of the 11th Instant and the copy of Lt Reinkings memorial to him
                            on the subject of the Brunswic Prisoners of War at Reading.
                        the Prisoners at Reading were sufferd to remain in Hutts untill by their improper conduct they had forfieted
                            all right to any particular indulgence the Officer under whose care they were placed found it necessary to confine them in
                            order to put a stop to that Desertion which was fast increasing among them—That the places of their confinement are
                            peculiarly disagreable, that their quantity of Provisions has been reduced or that they have been treated with rigour are
                            suggestions without any foundation.
                        If any have inlisted into our service no coercive measures have been used to induce them to the measure.
                        Some have, in compliance with their own solicitation been indulged the priviledge of becoming Citizens of
                            America and what ever contract they have made with the Inhabitants has been their own voluntary Act. with great regard I
                            have the honor to be Sir Your Excellencys Most Obedt humble Servant

                            B. Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from John Shuttleworth, 22 December 1782
From: Shuttleworth, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            New York 22nd Decr 1782

                        I beg leave to inform your Excellency that I arrived here in the Packet from England on Tuesday last. That I
                            left Annapolis, where I was resident near five years as Physician to Govr Eden, about two years preceding the present
                            dispute, to which place I am now on my return.
                        Permit me to solicit your Excellency’s passport to Maryland. This letter will be conveyed to your Excellency
                            by the first opportunity in which I could confide; and it is my intention to leave this place, so soon as I possibly can,
                            for Dobbs’s Ferry, where I hope to meet yr Excellency’s passport; but if I should arrive there before it, I will presume
                            to make the best of my way to yr presence being favored with a letter from Doctor Franklin to your Excellency. I am with
                            the utmost respect your Excellency’s Most obedient Servt

                            John Shuttleworth


Title: From George Washington to William Stephens Smith, 22 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, William Stephens

                            Dr Sir
                            Head Quarters Decr 22nd 1782

                        I am favored with yours of the 20th. The Money you have recd for Governor Harrison agreably to his desire you
                            will be pleased to remit to Mr Saml Inglis of Philadelphia, or inform him it is in your hand, subject to his Orders.
                        I have also to request you will inform Messrs John Channing, Peter Taylor and Aaron Loocock, whose Petition
                            you inclosed to me, that Congress having recommended that no "Subjects of His Britannic Majesty coming directly or
                            indirectly from any parts of the British Dominions be admitted into any of the United States during the War;" therefore no
                            Power inferior to that Honble Body will grant the indulgence they solicit. if, however these gentlemen choose to apply to
                            the Executive of the State to which they formerly belonged, or to the Delegates from that State now in Congress to make
                            interest for them, Letters for the purpose may be forwarded but until permission is obtained from the Sovereign Power as
                            beforementioned: no Passports will be granted.
                        As I mentioned in a former Letter, I will send you by the first good opportunity three or four Guinias to
                            procure Forage; after which you will make the best Arrangement in your power with the Qr Mastr for a farther supply—I am
                            Dear Sir with great regard & esteem &c.

                            P.S. I wish you to ascertain the number of Vessels in the fleet destined for England; and whether there
                                are any Men except Invalids on board.


Title: General Orders, 23 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Monday 23d Decr 1782
                            Parole Aylesbury Counter Signs Brookland Coventry

                                For the day tomorrow

                                Colonel Tupper, Major Graham.

                                For duty tomorrow

                                the first Newyork regiment.

                        The board of General officers appointed in the orders of the 16th instant to determine the dispute respecting
                            numbering the regiments of Connecticut in the reformation of that Line which is to take place on the first day of January
                            next, having reported unanimously as their opinion that the rank of the regiments ought to continue the same it has been
                            since the first of January 1780.
                        The Commander in Chief approves the opinion of the board.
                        Returns are to be immediately made to the Assistant Clothing of the number of men intitled to cloathing for
                            the year 1783, agreably to the resolution of Congress of the 18th June 1781—The returns are to be very accurate and
                            seigned by the Paymaster, and countersigned by the officers Commanding the regiment and brigade—The men whose term of
                            service expires before the first of November next to be inserted in three seperate Collumns, the first containing the men
                            who have three—the second who have six, and the third such as have nine months to serve from the first of November last.
                        The difficulty of transportation having delayed a considerable proportion of the Shirts which are ready made
                            in Philadelphia and which may now soon be expected; those which have arrived are to be drawn for by lot, by the several
                            regiments—for which purpose the regimental Paymasters will attend with their returns at the cloathing store in Newburgh at
                            three o’clock on Wednesday next—The Assistant Clothing has instructions on the subject.


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

                            Dear Sir,
                            Newburgh 23d Decr 1782

                        By yesterday’s Post I received advice of the completion of the Bargain I mentioned to you in my last—and that
                            I should be drawn upon in a few days for the amount—viz.—£1880 Virga Curry. which differs from the Curry of this State 1/3—Dollars in Virginia passing for no more than Six Shillgs.
                        I shall take the liberty of calling upon your Excellency with my Bond for this Money in the course of two or
                            three days lest any impedimts in the River should occasion a disappointment.
                        The Gentn to whom the money is to be paid wished to have it lodged in Philadelphia—If your Excellency knows
                            any person on whom dependence can be placed, that would receive the money here, and give a draught for it there, I shall
                            thank you for mentioning it when we meet. I am with great esteem & regard. Dr Sir Yr Most Obt & Affect
                            Ser

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Tobias Fernald, 23 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Fernald, Tobias

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Decr 23d 1782

                        Altho I cannot help feeling an extreme reluctance at parting with the veteran & faithful Officers of
                            the Army I have the honor to command, before the conclusion of the War; Yet when I am convinced by any of them, that their
                            constitution is entirely ruined, and their impaired state of health such as renders them unfit for farther duty, I cannot
                            think it justifiable to urge them to continue, especially when there is such a provision for them to retire upon as at
                            present—it is therefore only in consequence of the representation contained in your Letter of the 22d inst. that, I am
                            induced to acquiese & do hereby consent to your request for retiring upon the Emoluments of the Act of Congress
                            of the 19th of Novr last. I beg you will be pleased to accept my sincere wishes for the recovery of your health &
                            believe that I am with due regard Sir Your Most Obedt Servt


Title: To George Washington from William Jackson, 23 December 1782
From: Jackson, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,War-Office December 23rd 1782

                        I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your Excellency’s letters of the 16th and 18th instant
                            addressed to the Secretary at War—their enclosures will be attended to, and transmitted. an eligible opportunity offers
                            for South-Carolina tomorrow, by which your letter for General Greene will be forwarded.
                        The Amazon flag vessel is arrived at Wilmington, from whence the supplies for the British prisoners will be
                            sent to the several posts.
                        In reply to that part of Your Excellency’s letter which refers to Sir Guy Carleton’s remonstrance on what is
                            termed the cruel treatment of the German prisoners—it is only necessary to remark that what he supposes a hardship is
                            regarded by the prisoners themselves as a benevolent indulgence accorded them by Congress at a time when the British
                            Commanders in chief have neglected them, by refusing to sublist their prisoners.
                        No constraint is expressed in the act of Congress which grants this permission to the prisoners to dispose of
                            themselves—nor has it even been requisite to employ persuasion.
                        The British prisoners are daily soliciting the like indulgence—Congress have not
                            yet thought proper to extend it to them.
                        Those prisoners who still remain confined are by no means rigorously treated—complete rations are issued to
                            them daily, as appears from the returns of their own Officers—their provisions are not only wholesome but palatable—and
                            their accomodations are equal in every respect to their best expectations.
                        Not a single complaint has been made by the prisoners—and I am warranted in assuring Your Excellency that
                            there has been no cause to induce any.
                        I have the honor to enclose a late resolve of Congress. I am, with profound respect, Your Excellency’s Most
                            obedient servant

                            W. Jackson
                            Assistt Secy at War.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 23 December 1782
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Head Quarters Decr 23, 1782.

                        As the Enemy will probably soon leave the Southern States, if they have not done it already, we shall not
                            have the same necessity for Cavalry and Artillery as heretofore; I beg leave therefore to suggest to your Excellency the
                            propriety of confining the recruiting service in Virginia to the Infantry: unless this be done, I think there will be a
                            stop put to filling up the Battalions of Infantry, as it is much easier to recruit for the Cavalry and Artillery than for
                            the Infantry. Besides if we should hereafter find it necessary to augment the Horse and Artillery, it can always be done
                            by draughts from the Infantry without any difficulty, as in that case they are removed into Corps where the service is in
                            general more agreeable, and the pay higher. But it is impossible to draught men from the Horse or Artillery into the
                            Infantry without giving great dissatisfaction. If your Excellency should agree with me in opinion, I have to request that
                            you would write to the Governor of Virginia on the subject. I have the honor to be, with the greatest esteem, your
                            Excellency’s most obedient humble Servt

                            B. Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Pilsbury, 23 December 1782
From: Pilsbury, Daniel
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Genl
                            Boston 23d December 1782

                        After serving my Country ever since the Commencement of Hostillities with Honor and Conduct—I flatter my self
                            your Excellency will over look & forgive my long absence as I have been Confined for Several Months with a Slow
                            and lingering sickness-- am Now upon the Mending hand; wish to serve my Countrey as I have hear to fore faithfully Done till
                            I was Confind by the Almighty hand of Providence. hope to recover my health by Spring so that I shall be able to Join my
                            regt & Doo my Country further service—it was my Sincere Desire ever to be in the service of my
                            Country—But My health will Not admit of Joining my regt at present. if it would I should be as antious to Come on as your
                            Excellency would wish to have me—if your Excellency Should think proper to Derrange me in this Arangement—I will leave it
                            firmly with your Excellency and Col. Tupper who will Consult you on the matter as I have wrote him upon the Subject—Capt.
                            Taylor will take my Company if it is your will and pleasure that he should exchange. I give my Consent for it--and wish you Dear Genl all happiness that Can attend so worthy a General-- from your Most Obedient & Most Humble Servant

                            Daniel Pilsbury Colo.
                            6th Massts Regt


Title: To George Washington from William Lord Stirling Alexander, 23 December 1782
From: Alexander, William Lord Stirling
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Albany Decemr 23d 1782.

                        Your Excellency’s of the 17th inclosing one to Col. Willet came duely to hand, and the enclosure forwarded.
                            Col: Olney on receipt of my letter of the 17th thought it necessary to see me before Carryg it into execution, he Came
                            down on friday and returned the same fully satisfied as to the points he was doubtfull of; I made some addition to his
                            Instructions, and wrote a letter to the Officer who is to execute the busyness: and I am not without hopes that Mr
                            Chittenden will be an active hand in it ’till he Comes to know the real intention of it. Copies of the two last mentioned
                            papers are enclosed. I have the honor to be your Excellency’s Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant

                            Stirling,

                     Enclosure

                                Sir,
                                Albany December 20th 1782

                            When you arrive at Arlington you are to call on Governor Chittenden with my Compliments, and ask his
                                advice with regard to the best method of apprehending the Deserters you are in pursuit of, and his assistance in
                                procuring you Sleighs and Horses, and his recommendation to all the Officers Civil & Military in each Township
                                you are to go through to do the Like, for which services you are to give your orders on the A.D.Q.M. at this post—and
                                they shall be punctually paid. You will pass through the Towns of Arlington, sunderland Straton, New Fane, and
                                Brattleburgh, at the two last of which I am told there are a number of Deserters. You will detach to the right and
                                left as you find necessary. In case you should in any place be in want of provision you will draw for the amount of
                                them on Colonel Wm Duer Contractor at this Place who will punctually pay the same. I am &c. &c.

                     Enclosure

                                Sir,
                                Albany December 20th 1782

                            On considering the instructions I sent you on the 17th I think it will be best that you order the Party
                                you send into the Grants to cross Connecticut River from Brattleburgh into New Hampshire and then proceed southwardly
                                as low down as Sunderland in Massachusetts—there recross the River and proceed to sheffield, then to Sharon, then Fish
                                Kill, and then to Head Quarters at Newburgh. When the Officer is at Sunderland he should send me an express to let me
                                know the event. I am, &c., &c.


Title: General Orders, 24 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Tuesday 24th December 1782
                            Parole Derby.
                            Countersigns Epping, Fredericksburgh.

                                For the day tomorrow

                                Lieutenant Col. Hull, Major Morrell.

                                For duty tomorrow

                                the 2d Newyork regiment.

                        The Board assembled for the purpose of assertaining the facts relative to an agreement said to have been made
                            between Captains Jackson of the 3d and Pillsbury of the 6th Massachusetts regiments, report it as their opinion that an
                            exchange was fully effected before the promulgation of the resolution of Congress of the 19th November last; and that
                            Captain Jackson ought to continue in service in room of Captn Pillsbury.
                        The Commander in Chief, approves the opinion of the Board.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Butler, 24 December 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Butler, Richard

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Newburgh Decr 24th 1782

                        Your favor of the 7th inst. has been duly received—Agreeably to your request I enclose Discharges for the Men
                            you have mentioned by name—Whenever there are any other instances in which you think the good of the service will be
                            promoted by similar exchanges, I shall not hesitate to give my assent thereto.
                        At the same time, I am very happy to hear you are to continue in service, I am extremely distressed with a
                            consideration of the disagreeable feelings & prospects of many of the brave Officers, from whose zeal experience
                            & ability the Public has derived such essential services, and who are now to bid adieu to their Military
                            connections.
                        Altho’ it may not be in the power of our Country & the present age to do ample justice to the Merits
                            of those gallant Officers & Men who have composed the American Army, and by their bravery &
                            perseverance effected the Independence of this vast Continent; yet a pleasing consciousness of having been instrumental
                            in producing so great an event, and a reflexion that the unbiased World & Posterity will view their exertions in
                            the fairest point of light, will sooth many an anxious hour. and I cannot but hope the sweets of liberty, peace, &
                            domestic enjoyment, are yet to be tasted by those who have shared so freely in the fatigues & dangers of procuring
                            these inestimable blessings for others. With sentiments of the highest esteem I am Dear Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

                             Go: Washington