Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 20 February 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,
                     Head quarters, Highlands, February 20. 1782.

                  Inclosed your Excellency will find copy of return of the two New Hampshire regiments, some time since called for.  The original was forwarded to major general Lincoln, agreeable to your directions in a former letter.
                  Abel Whitcomb, a soldier in the Massachusetts line, was executed here the last week, for repeated desertions, changing his name & inlisting again.  Two others who were sentenced to suffer death for desertion, were pardoned at the gallows.  I hope this will meet your approbation.
                  The troops are recovering from the smallpox.  I apprehend between twenty and thirty have died in the course of inoculation—but a considerable part of them by a putrid fever, supposed to be principally owing to a habit rendered almost putrid by the itch.  As soon as the men are generally through, returns of the whole who have had the distemper, and the number who have died, shall be called for and transmitted to your Excellency.
                  Nine Hessian deserters and two English have come here within a day or two past—part of them with their arms, &c.  Colonel Delancy’s horse made an excursion towards Horseneck last friday, plundered and damaged several houses, and took some cattle; but the militia turning out with spirit drove them back, retook nearly all the cattle, killed one or more of the enemy, and wounded several.
                  The powder and arms from the eastward, are generally come on.  They unfortunately went by the way of Claverack—and colonel Hughes writes me, were on the borders of a disaffected country—Colonel Hughes expected when he wrote, to have the whole brought down in a few days.
                  The members appointed for the general court martial on major-general McDougall, met yesterday at Fish-Kill, when general McDougall objected to the president, and three of the members as your Excellency will observe by the inclosed papers which are just sent me.  How far general McDougall has a right to object to members, and what objections are supposed to be sufficient, is not for me to determine.  I submit the matter as it stands to your Excellency.  I have the honor to be, With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                     W. Heath

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        Fishkill Feby 19th 1782

                     Agreable to your order of the 14th the members appointed for the Court Martial for the tryal of Major General McDougall, assembled yesterday at the house of Mr Cooper in the Village of Fishkill.
                     When the names of the President and Members were mentioned to General McDougall, he objected to myself, Colonel Grosvenor, Major Spurr and Major Throop.
                     I shall not deny the right a prisoner has to make Challenges to the Officers detail’d as President or Members of his Court, and that even peremptorily and without shewing cause.  But as General McDougall did proceed to shew the cause of his objections to me, it is become my duty to shew that the matters he alledg’d are not good cause of Challenge, and ought not to be admitted as such.  The reasons for which a juror in a Court of Law, as well as in a Court Martial may be Challeng’d have generally been founded on the following or some of them (viz.) that the Juror hath found an Indictment against the party for the same cause.  that he hath been a member of a Court of Enquiry on the matters charg’d to the party.  that he hath prejudg’d the matter or given his opinion beforehand that the party is guilty—that he hath shewn evident marks of Ill will; or threatened revenge against the party.  declar’d enmity between the parties.  that he hath a claim to the forfeiture which shall be caus’d by the parties condition.  That he shall profit by the conviction of the party.  That he is infamous and hath been convicted of Treason, Felony, Perjury &c—None of these has General McDougall been pleas’d to alledge; on the contrary he declar’d he has the highest opinion of my honor and the goodness of my heart; he founded his objections to me, on the proceeding of the Court Martial for the tryal of Major General Lee, of which Court I was President, and in which there was in his opinion many capital defects, want of precision, leading questions put to Witnesses which were or ought to be inadmissable in any Court; in short that as I had been President of a Court which had proceeded so very irregularly I was unfit to preside in a Court where matters of so high importance as the in present case would be brought into question—I believe that in answer to those objections it would be sufficient to say, that such reasons were never yet admitted in any case of common Law, or Court Martial to be good cause of Challenge—But if a man be incompetent to the duty of a President or Minister of a Court Martial he must be incompetent to the holding a Commission in the Army, for it is the duty of every commission’d Officer in it, to sit at Court Martial; and this incompetency can never be admitted, untill an Officer has been legally convicted, and the record produc’d, which has not been done in the present case and therefore I conceive the cause assigned to this Challenge is not good.
                     The Commander in Chief when he order’d me to this tour of duty, was in possession of General Lees tryal, and of all the materials General McDougall could have had access to in forming his objections; he has declar’d his sentiments by the appointment;  But I must submit it to you whether, I shall proceed in forming the Court immediately or defer it untill you can have the Commander in Chiefs sentiments on the Challenge.
                     The rights of a Prisoner on tryal are very sacred, and should be handled with the utmost delicacy, if he makes an improper Challenge he should be made sensible of his error, as I sincerely wish General McDougall may be in this case, before I be oblidg’d to proceed in my duty—I directed the Judge Advocate to make immediate report to you of what passed at the meeting, which I doubt not he has done. I have the honor to be with great regard and Esteem Your most Obedient and very humble Servant

                        Stirling
                        M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Edmund M. Hyrne, 20 February 1782
From: Hyrne, Edmund M.
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Charlestown Feby 20th 1782

                  When General Leslie was about to leave this Country, I made application for, and obtained, a letter of service; a copy of which I have the honor to inclose.  The terms, your Excellency will observe, were, that I should endeavour to procure, that an Officer of equal or inferior rank to mine, should have the same indulgence.  If I failed in that, the license was to be with drawn, and I to consider myself a prisoner on parole.
                  If no inconsistency attends the request, I shall be happy to procure the indulgence expected.  At all events your Excellency will lay me under a very particular obligation, by enabling me to transmit to New York the issue of application.  I have the honor to be with greatest respect Your Excellencies Most obedient humble servant

                     Edmd Massbd Hyrne
                     Major So. Carolina line

                Enclosure

                        (Copy)
                        Sir
                        Head Quarters Charlestown Decemr 8th 1781

                     The Honorable Lieutenant General Leslie having given me permission to grant you a Letter of service, upon the condition of your obtaining the same indulgence from General Washington, to a British officer of an inferior or equal Rank—You are therefore to look upon this as sufficient authority for your doing duty in the American Army, untill you are informed of Gen. Washingtons having refused your request, after which this letter of service ceases to be of force, & you are to be considered & accounted for as a prisoner on parole. I am sir your most obedt Servt

                        J. Wemiss D.A. Genl


Title: To George Washington from Matthias Ogden, 20 February 1782
From: Ogden, Matthias
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Camp Jersey Hutts Febry 20th 82

                  I gave information in my last dated in Elizh Town the 17th Inst. that Transports were falling down through the Narrows; I have since had a confirmation of the report; I am assured that at least 12 Sail of Transports under convoy of the Rotterdam, & one Frigate sailed on Saturday; I make no doubt they are destined for Charlestown—It is generally believed in New York that Lt Christophers is taken, and Confusion pervades every Citizen—I am Sir Your Excellencys humble servant

                     M. Ogden


Title: From George Washington to Elizabeth Willing Powel, 20 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Powel, Elizabeth Willing

                     Saturday 20 February 1782

                  Gen Washington (this instant returning from a Committee & finding Mrs Powell’s Card) begs leave to present his respectful Compliments, and to inform her, that he will, if it is convenient & agreeable to her, have the honor to accompany her to Mr Bingham’s in the Afternoon of tomorrow.


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

                     Dear General,
                     Head quarters, Highlands February 21. 1782.

                  Major Villefranche of the engineers has this morning intimated to me, that he thinks he has been forgotten in promotion, and fears the reason has been, absence from the active and glorious seige of York and capture of earl Cornwallis.  He has requested me to represent to your Excellency how he has been employed here the last campaign.  His faithful services, unremitting zeal and exertions for the public, exhibited on all occasions, constrain me to represent them.  Major Villefranche was sent to the northward by your Excellency’s orders in June last, where, from the report of the officers, he was essentially useful.  In October he returned here and expressed an earnest wish to go to the southward.  The northern frontier being then threatened by the enemy, I directed him to return immediately to that quarter, to afford such advice and aid to the commanding officer of the American forces as might be needful from an engineer—He went with the greatest expedition—His services there were represented to me as very important and highly beneficial—Indeed, throughout the whole tenor of his conduct, as far as has fallen under my observation, he has, on every occasion, discovered abilities, a warm attachment to our cause, and ardent desires to promote the public service.  I have the honor to be With very great regard, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                     W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 21 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters Philadelphia Feby 21st 1782

                  I have attentively considered the several matters contained in your Letter, Returns, Estimates, & Proposals of the 8th 15th & 16th Inst.
                  You already have, in my Letter of the 10th, my opinion of purchasing Ox Teams & hiring Drivers for them.
                  I am glad to find our prospects of Tents and Camp Equipage for the ensuing Campaign are so favorable—Any deficiencies of knapsacks, Camp kettles &c. ought to be made up without loss of time.
                  By the Return of public Boats & water Craft, I find there are upwards of two hundred Batteaux either fit for use or capable of being repaired—as this species of Boats will probably be the most essentially necessary, it is my wish that measures may be immediately taken, to compleat & keep in constant readiness for service at least two hundred of them, exclusive of those on ordinary duty; and also that two of the Gun Boats, which are the best sailors, may be fitted for service—What other Boats may be necessary for different services I leave to your determination, as well as the Mode for obtaining the necessary repairs, of which I cannot pretend to be a competent judge.  I will only suggest that an ample provision of oars will be necessary, of which a sufficient number for fifty Boats ought always to be ready muffled; & that it will be well to cast in your mind, the means for mounting a number of the Boats on travelling Carriages whenever it may become necessary.
                  Your plan for raising a Company of Artificers for the Campaign, I think is an eligible one, and also the proposal for having the heavy part of the Smith’s work done by contract—because it will be less expensive to the Public, & less troublesome to the Army in the feild.
                  The allowance of Carriages for the transportation of the Baggage of the Officers of the Army as exhibited in your Estimate, appears to me, to be both reasonable & adequate to the purpose but as to the question whether they shall be drawn by Horse or Ox Teams, I can only repeat what I before observed to you in conversation; that altho Horse Teams would probably be most agreeable to the Officers, yet the ability of the public to provide them must be taken into consideration, and the ultimate arrangements must be made with the Superintendant of Finance.  If he can afford the means of supplying Horse Teams for the whole I shall have no objections to it; but if should not be able to furnish Money for the purchase of the whole number wanted, it seems more necessary that the General Officers should be accomodated with Horse Teams than others, as they may frequently have occasion to make more expedition in their movements than other Officers—whereas the Baggage of the Officers of the Staff & the Line will rarely if ever be seperated from the Column of Baggage,on a march, and therefore can only move at the same rate with the remainder of the Baggage, which will be drawn by Ox Teams alone.
                  I shall certainly approve of any plan which will tend to secure the public property & promote the good of the service, I shall consequently acquiese in the expedient you propose respecting public Horses in the possession of Officers, & some measures more beneficial cannot be devised.
                  With regard to any alteration or augmentation of pay in the Quarter Master Department at this moment; I have to observe; that after it has been the great object with Congress for a considerable time to diminish the number of Officers in every Department of the Staff, and to oeconomise our affairs as much as possible, it might appear extraordinary in me to take any part which would seem to thwart that system of policy, especially as I have not thought it expedient to interpose on a similar occasion, in one of the Departments which has been lately reformed—but if any new provision of any kind, shall be found absolutely necessary in your Department, for promoting the public service, I beg you will be persuaded, that I can have no objection it should be made accordingly—and in the mean time, as it appears, by Colonel Carrington’s Letter enclosed in yours, there has been nothing fixed as to the pay & emoluments of the Quarter Mastr Department with the southern Army, I think it highly requisite it should be done immediately; and should suppose the pay of the Deputy Quarter Master with that Army should bear the same proportion to that of the Quarter Master General, as has been established by Congress between the Deputy Commissy of the southern Army and the head of that Department.  I should also suppose the pay of the other Officers in the Quarter Master Department serving in the Southern Army ought to be the same as that of the Officers executing the same duties with the main Army, and that the Commanding Officer should determine if necessary the propriety of paying any extraordinary expences, incurred from local circumstances in that Department.
                  I wish to know what has been done to put the chain of Expresses between Williamsburgh & this place upon a good footing for expediting the communication, and if any thing further is wanting, that effacious measures may be used for making the conveyance as certain & rapid as possible.
                  I cannot close this long Letter without desiring, if there is any other matter of Contingency of permanent Arrangement within the line of your Office, which requires the aid of either of Money or Credit to carry it into execution, that you will lay the Estimates forthwith before the Financier, & take such other steps as to you shall seem meet, for carrying the same into effect, before the opening of the Campaign, which is now very fast approaching, & for which it behoves us, to make the most ample preparations.  I am Sir With great regard & esteem Your Most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  I wish you to keep all the great Scows in constant repair; and as they are so convenient for transporting the Army on a sudden emergency, I should be glad to have the number augmented, if it could be done without breaking in upon other Arrangement.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 21 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia 21st Feby 1782

                  I have been honored with your Excellency’s favor of the 5th instant, to which, my letters of the 9th and 12th of this month will have served for an answer.
                  In my letters of the 14th of January and 9th of February, I requested the favor of your Excellency to negotiate the exchange of Brigr Genl Lord Rawdon for Brigr Genl Moultrie.  I since find, that Gentleman has been exchanged, by composition, for Lieut. General Burgoyne.  I therefore now beg leave to request your Excellency to signify the same to Sir Henry Clinton, and to propose the exchange of Brigr General Scot of Virginia for Lord Rawdon.
                  I congratulate your Excellency upon the speedy and safe arrival of the Duke de Lauzun in France.  I have good reason to believe that the Andromache arrived safely also, as I have answers from Spain to letters which went by her.  I have the honor to be with perfect Esteem Your Excellency’s Most obt and humble servt

                     Go: Washington


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

                     Dear Sir
                     Lebanon 21st Febry 1782

                  I have been honored with your Excellencys two favors of the 22d & 28th of Janry—and immediately laid them before the Legislature of the State which was then in Session—and I have the pleasure to inform you that they were received with that Respect and Consideration which have ever attended your Communications.
                  The inclosed Act directing the filling up and compleating this States Quota of the Continental Army will shew your Excellency the Spirit of our Genl Assembly on that Subject: if the Execution is attended with that Vigour & Energy that I could wish, I should hope the Recruits will come on to your Acceptance & Satisfaction.
                  Provision is also made by the Same Sessions of our Legislature, for Payment of the first Quarter of the Monies requested by the Financier for the Services of the insuing Campaign—coming due on the first of April.
                  Ways and Means for discharging the three succeeding Quarters, are referred to their next Meeting, which will be in May next.
                  For myself, I am fully impressed with the Justice of your Excellency’s Observations on the Necessity of Expediency of our future most vigorous Exertions  to put a Close to this unhappy Contest—a Contest which has been already too long protracted—I wish I had it in my power to say, that the universal Spirit was
                         actuated by the same Sentiments—unhappily too many seem to me to be influenced by a delusive hope of peacefull Overtures from the other Side of the Water—my Ideas of the natural haughtiness of the British Temper—the inveterate Obstinacy of their King—of the revengefull pride & Indolence of his Ministers—aided by the almost unbounded Influence of regal power & Ministerial Corruption—forbid my Mind to rest on the hope that such will be the Consequences of our Late Successes.  My trust is in the Wisdom of providence which invariably works its own Designs—and may perhaps soon turn up to us more favorable Events than I at present fear—At the same Time I think the readiest Way for us to interest this providence in our favor, is by our own most strenuous Exertions in Use of those Means, with which Heaven has most bountifully supplied us—I have the Honor to be with perfect Respect & Regard Dear Sir Your Excellencys Most Obedient and most humble Servant

                     Jonth; Trumbull


Title: To George Washington from Richard Varick, 21 February 1782
From: Varick, Richard
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Poughkeepsie Feby 21. 1782.

                  In Compliance with Your Excellency’s Directions I have examined the Volumes of General orders & find them recorded to the 30th April 1780. inclusive.
                  Upon arranging the Proceedings of the Councils of War for Transcription I have Reason to suppose that some are deficient; especially in 1776; I therefore submit it to Your Excellency, whether it will not be expedient to apply to Mr Thomson the Secretary of Congress for the whole which he may have, subject to be returned when recorded, for I suppose he has filed them in such Manner as to be easy of Access.  From those and such as I have, I shall probably be able to collect the whole in their Order.
                  Since I wrote Your Excellency on the 14th I am informed by Letter from a Brother of Mr Ray (whom I intended to employ & had desired to repair to this Place immediately), that that Young Gentleman has been taken ill & is not likely to recover soon, if ever, and that he has given up all Hopes of acting as a Writer under me, I shall therefore look out elsewhere.
                  With Respect to the Distribution of the 500 Dollars recd on the 19th I am to inform Your Excellency, that I have paid to
                  Mr Sickels150DsMr Glean100.Mr Myer (dischd)            50.Reserved for    Mr Dunscomb (do) 50. Mr Hughes (do)  50.   400.Appropriated to my own Use 100.  500.   Dollars.
                  With the highest respect & regard I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

                     Richd Varick


Title: To George Washington from Elias Dayton, 22 February 1782
From: Dayton, Elias
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Chatham Febry 22nd 1782

                  Enclosed is the proceedings of a court martial held on a deserter from the second Regiment of Jersey,  he was taken from a party of British sailors on their way from Philadelphia to New York to be exchanged, his Officers say he is a very bad fellow—Three days since two frigates with twelve sail of transports left N. York and it is publickly said they are gone to bring all the troops from Charlestown.
                  Since I saw a certain dirty paper of Rivingtons I have ordered every N. York paper sent over by a flag to be immediately burnt or sent to me that I may prevent their spreading amongts the disaffected. I think myself the more justifiable in doing this as I know a large number of papers are sent out weekly at the expence of government.  I have the honor to be your Excellencys Most Hbl. servant

                     Elias Dayton


Title: To George Washington from William Moore, 22 February 1782
From: Moore, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     In Council Philada Feby 22. 1782

                  Your Excellency’s letter of the 21st of the present month has been read in Council and laid before the General Assembly for their consideration.  I have the honor to be with the greatest regard Your Excellencys Most obedient servant

                     Wm Moore
                     President


Title: To George Washington from Isaac Craig, 23 February 1782
From: Craig, Isaac
To: Washington, George

                     May it please your Excellency,
                     Philadelphia Feby 23d, 1782

                  The constant attention paid to the rights of your officers, emboldens me to lay before your Excellency a matter, which, tho little in its consequences to the world, to me, in its issue, is of the greatest importance; viz. my rank in the army—my right to promotion  disputed.  I therefore beg leave to lay before your Excellency a state of my claim; hoping it shall meet with your Excellency’s approbation—At the beginning of the present war, I took up arms in defence of the rights of my country, determined to lay them down only with my life, or the establishment of our freedom.  In November 1775, I was appointed a first Lieutenant of Marines, in the Navy, then fitting out by the continent, & in that capacity acted, commanding the Marines on board the Andrew Doria, ten months.  Permit me to observe, that I was then the oldest Lieutenant, & of course intitled to the first vacency; which vacency happned in April 1776; but was not filled, by reason of my being at sea, & not having an opportunity of applying to the marine committee for that purpose.  On my return to this harbour, in October 1776, I had a captains commission given me, dated the time of my arrival.  The Marine Committee informed me that my absence, & no certainty of my return, was the reason that I was not appointed to one of the ships then fitting out.  I esteemed the date of my commission in the Navy of little consequence, being determined to embrace the first opportunity of removing into the army.  In November 1776, the Marines under the command of Major Nickols, of that corps, were ordered to join the army; and continued doing the duty of infantry until some time in February following; when we received orders to take charge of some pieces of artillary, & have the marines instructed in that duty.  March 3d 1777, I was appointed second captain in the regiment of Artillary, then forming, under the command of Colonel Proctor; & by the resignation of captain Dericks, in May following, became the first captain & on the decease of Lieutenant Colonel Strobough, the 2d of December 1778, & promotion of Major Forest tothat vacancy, I conceived myself intitled to the majority.  From my first entering into the service of my country, I have endavoured to learn my duty, & tho’ often arduous & difficult, have found a particular pleasure in doing it.  My conduct as an officer I can submit to the strictest impartial scrutiny—June 1776, during my absence at sea, for several Frigates, then building here, officers were appointed; among whom captain Porter, who now disputes rank with me, was commissioned capt. of marines; & continued as such until the 28th of April following; at which time, upon the recommendation of Col. Proctor to General Knox, he was appointed captain of artillary: but, by some means, got a commission anti-dated to the first of January preceding.
                  I have ever esteemed resolutions of Congress sacred—Acts of that august body, sufficient security for the rights of soldiers, as well as citizens—On these Acts I wish to rest my claim; & beg leave to recite one, of the first of April 1777, which I presume will appear pertinent.  "Resolved, that no officer already appointed, or to be hereafter appointed, shall take rank by virtue of a commission anti-dated; but rank shall be determined by the time of appointment, unless otherwise directed by a special resolution of Congress."  Hence it appears captain, Porter cannot rank as an artilary officer, previous to the 28th of April 1777, till which time he received pay as captain of marines, as may appear by the records of the Marine Committee.  It will further appear, that, while thus paid as a Navy officer, he has also received pay as captn of artillery, from the first of Jany 1777 almost four months before he was an artillary officer, & almost four months receiving pay in a double capacity.  This last I am constrained to mention, in this place, may as an argument necessarily connected with the establishment of my present claim—But Capt. Porter says his commission was anti-dated, in consequence of a Resolution of Congress, of the 24th of Novr 1778, which I take the liberty to quote—"Resolved, therefore; that upon any dispute of rank the following rules shall be hereafter observed.  For determining rank in the continental line, between all Colonels & inferior officers of different states, between like officers of infantry, & those of horse and artillary appointed under the Authority of Congress, by virtue of a resolution of Sepr the 15th 1776, or by virtue of any subsequent Resolution, prior to January 1st 1777, all such officers shall be deemed to have their commission dated on the day last mentioned; & their relative rank with respect to each other, in the continental line of the army, shall be determined by their rank prior to the 16th of September 1776"—I humbly apprehend that the above resolution, by which Capt. Porter attempts to support his claim, has no allusion to his case, either directly or impliedly; as it expressly relates to the officers of the Eighty eight battalions only, or those appointed by virtue of any susequent resolution, prior to the 1st of January 1777—And, as before observed, Capt. Porter’s acknowledging himself to be a navy officer, by receiving pay as such, up to the 28th of April 1777 precludes him from any pretensions to rank in the army, previous to that time—But should it be admitted that service in the navy intitled officers to promotion in the Army, which by no means appears to have been the intention of Congress, I presume, I have the first claim, being first in commission; and actual service at sea only, prevented my promotion in April 1776, as before observed, which was some months prior to captain Porter’s offering his service—I beg leave further to observe, that the late President of this State, who was a member of the board of arangement in 1778 & 1779, assured me, that that board, in giving rank to officers, not only attended to their appointments, but had had minute retrospect to the dates of vacancies, to which they were intitled.
                  In our service, may it please your Excellency, honour is almost the only personal consideration left for an officer to fight for—It is connected with the vitals of our military establishment—In this consideration your Excellency will excuse the prolixity of this adress.  I have the honour to be, With great respect, Your Excellency’s very obedient Servt

                     Isaac Craig


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 23 February 1782
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Freehold 23 Febry 1782

                  On Monday last 19 large transports sailed from New York for Charles Town—Common Report at New York says they are only to call at Charles Town and proceede to Europe—But the more Informed Opinions are that those Transports are for the purpose of bringing the Troops off & that Charles Town will be Evacuateed—Your Excly has no doubt been informed, the British have been building Barracks—that, Circumstance tends to Coroberate the Idea of the Troops coming from the Southward—Application has been made to me for assistance in procuring a permission for a Lady and her friend to go into New York—for the purpose of receiving a Large sum of Money that has lately been left to her and is in the Hands of David Mathews the Mayor of New York—I objected to the Gent. she proposed to go in with her, and proposed one whose political Character I am well assured of and who from his Acquaintance in New York and abilities I think considerable andvantagees may be drawn from him When he Returns—if Your Excly thinks proper to grant the permission—beg it May deem for Mrs Provosts & Mr  to go into New York to settle Mrs Provosts Acct with David Mathews Esqr. and to Return with sutch sum or Sums of Money as she may Receive on Settlement—Your Excly Will I hope excuse my leaving a Blank for the Gentlemans Name—I will be Answerable for his Conduct that it shall in no wise operate against any  united States—of Choice I would have them to go off at, & Return by way of Elizabeth Town Point, if your Excly should at all grant them permission.  I have the Honr to be Your Excys Most Obdt Humble Servt

                     David Forman


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

                     Dear General,
                     Head quarters, Highlands February 23 1782

                  The time of service, for which the levies under the command of general Waterbury are engaged, expires the last of this month; and although the legislature of the state of Connecticut have ordered another detachment of militia to do duty on the lines at Stamford, I am apprehensive a very good work, and convenient huts for the accomodation of troops, which have been erected at that place, may be in great danger of being destroyed—I have therefore sent a detachment of regular troops to that post for a few days, until the militia can be detached and arrive, when they are to return.
                  We have, fortunately, removed all the arms and military stores from Claverack to Fishkill and Fishkill landing, from whence such as can be stored at West-point, will be removed there as soon as it can be effected.  Inclosed is an invoice of the articles.  Colonel Hughes has great credit for the dispatch with which he removed these stores from Claveract to Fishkill.  He informs me some articles were lost or plundered between Boston and Claverack—that he has written back to the principal persons on the route to make enquiry—And the person who received the stores at Claverack has noted on the receipts of those persons whose loads were deficient, what was wanting.
                  I take the liberty to inclose an arrangement of the subalterns of the Massachusetts line.  As great care and pains have been taken by the board I believe the arrangement is as accurate as can be obtained.  General Glover was the third person of the board, but was gone before the arrangement was copied—He informed me that he had concurred with the other officers in it.  If it meets your Excellency’s approbation, on your signifying it, I will make it known.  It has been long delayed, and those concerned are anxious to know their rank.
                  I have obtained from colonel Varick the revision of the rank of the captains of the Massachusetts line which was lodged among your Excellency’s papers.  It appears that although the arrangement was complete when given in, it is now far otherwise from the promotion of several Captains to majorities, the death and resignations of many others, and promotions of some subalterns to captains.  I have therefore requested the former board vizt general, and field officers commanding regiments, in the Massachusetts line to complete the list by putting the whole forward as they stood before, closing the intervals occasioned by the different casualties before mentioned, when the list shall be presented to your Excellency.
                  The inclosed from general Paterson was handed to me yesterday.  I wish your Excellency’s opinion on the subject of it.  I have the honor to be, With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                     W. Heath

                     P.S.  General Schuyler, in his letter respecting the military stores—that he had obtained a militia guard, and promised them pay, until one could be sent from Albany—concludes, "Should it not be in your power to reimburse the expence of the guard, which may amount to £15 or £20, be pleased to advise me of it, that I may apply to the commander in chief."  As it is not in my power to reimburse the expence, I will inform him that I have represented the matter to your Excellency—and wait your answer.

                     W. H.

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        West Point 22d Feby 1782

                     By one of my friends (a great tho private Whig) I have found that the famous Indian Brant has met with an affront from the British, & has declared he will never take arms again in their favour.
                     It is also hinted to me that a certainty of good treatment will bring him to our Camp.
                     I have this from a good man but must beg it may not be hinted out of doors, least he might suffer, being intirely under the power of British Government.
                     I shall not take any measures untill I hear from you, but think that advantages may be taken, that will be of the greatest advantage to the .  I am with esteem & respect your very humble servant

                        John Paterson


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 23 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters Philadelphia Feby 23d 1782

                  I have your favor of this day before me.
                  Altho I am not certain the Teams will be wanted so soon as the Middle of May, yet I think all things considered, it will be expedient to make your Arrangements so as to have them either in Camp at that time, or in such a situation as that they might be brought in immediately if necessary.  I am Sir with great regard Your Most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 23 February 1782
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Philadelphia Feby 23. 1782

                  I was yesterday honoured with your Excellency’s letter of the 21st, to the several directions in which I shall pay due attention.
                  Yesterday I received a letter from Major Claiborne dated the 12th instant informing me “that the two expresses stationed at the Bowling Greene, had left it some days for want of support."  As Colo. Carrington had comprehended in his estimate for Virginia one charge for expresses, I have desired him to ask Mr Morris for authority to engage actual payment, & then immediately to write Major Claiborne to replace & firmly fix the expresses, when Colo. Carrington will pay on his return to Virginia.  I will also apply for the Maryland district, & enable Mr Yeates to keep his chain complete.
                  Your Excellency advised that the oxteams should be assembled by the middle of May, last year: I would request your direction for the present year, on this head.  The longer their assembling is delayed, consistent with the expected operations, the better, on account of the pasturage, which by the middle of May is hardly sufficient for the support of the cattle.  It is of importance too, to preserve, as long as possible, all the forage in the vicinity of the army.  I have the honour to be with the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s most obedt servant

                     Tim. Pickering
                     Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 23 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                     Sir
                     Philada 23d Feby 1782

                  I was yesterday honored with your Excellencys favor of the 10th Inst.  I am extremely sorry to hear of the loss at the Diligente—The Chevalier Clonard appears to have done every thing that could have been expected from an active intelligent Officer.
                  In a former Letter I expressed my approbation of the exchange of a number of the British Convalescents left a Gloucester for those taken in the Bonetta—If the 120 sent away with Capt. Richardson are incurable, they will be of no service to the enemy, and we are rid of an incumbrance—I must request your Excellency to order a continuance of supplies to the few that will remain, and Mr Morris will make reimbursement.
                  I am extremely obliged to your Excellency for your generous donation to our Hospital at Williamsburg of which I have been informed by Lt Colo. Mentges; who at the same time acquainted me that a Bill which he had drawn upon my Paymaster General for 50 French Crowns had been protested.  This matter was unknown to me untill the Bill had been protested and returned to Virginia.  I beg you will attribute this to the true cause, which was, my not being acquainted with the circumstance—It shall be paid with all charges upon it to whomever Mr Farlé will be pleased to give the order.
                  The news which your Excellency has received from St Thomas is true in part—The troops under command of the Marquis de Bouilleé escorted by the Fleet of Count de Grasse landed without opposition upon the Island of St Kitts.—The inhabitants capitulated but the Garrison retired to the strong port of Brimstone Hill, against which the Marquis was throwing up Works—By a Flag of Truce, which arrived the day before yesterday from Antigua, we are informed that there has been an action off St Kitts, between Count de Grasse and Admiral Hood—We have no particulars, but from the complexion of the Antigua Gazette, in which the affair is mentioned, we will hope that the Court was fortunate.
                  Permit me to make my sincere acknowledgments to your Excellency for the honor you have done me in celebrating my Birth day—You have thereby made a new addition to the Friendship and Esteem with which I have the honor to be &c.


Title: To George Washington from Aaron Francis, 24 February 1782
From: Francis, Aaron
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Beverly Febury 24th 1782

                  Nothing its possible to illustrate would induce me to troble your Excellency at this time but the Present circumstances of my family, which is truely Painfull to me, to request a resignation of a Lieutenancy in Col. Tuppers Regt.
                  To Solicit for a thing of this nature is sufficiently painfull (to one who ingaged in the Service of his Country in the Airliest period. and continued to this time and have had the honour of waring a commission Sence the first of Jany 1777) allowing my resignation granted without the least censure, consequently I beg as my error (if one) is not the iffect of choice but of force, that I may obtain the former and escape the latter: by which you confer a favor that will ever call for the warmest Prayers for your health, Prospirity & increase of honour.
                  In wishing you a continuance and increase of  falicity, I beg leave to assure you that I am, and ever will be with the highest respect and gratitude.  Your Exellency’s most obedent & Humble Servt

                     Aaron Francis


Title: To George Washington from Alexander McDougall, 24 February 1782
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     West point 24th February 1782

                  Major Villefranch of the Corps of Engineers, has served a considerable time under my orders, and inspection, and I can with great trust assure your Excellency, he is an intelligent excellent careful Officer, particularly so, of the public stores.  From the General and particular observations I have made on his conduct, in the time of service he is in; I think him an acquisition to the Country; and well qualified to serve in the confederal Army; and to be the servant of a republic.  His manners are well adapted to our kind of governments; and besides, his general exterior corresponds with it.  He posses great calmness of temper; He however feels himself chagrined at his being forgotten, when his Country-men in the same line with him were promoted, from an apprehension of its lessening his character, in the eyes of his master and his natural Country-men.  Many Officers far less meritorious, than he is, of his nation, have received liberal promotion: and I cannot help expressing a wish, that so deserving an Officer, may be gratified in a grade, which his long Services and singular qualifications merit.  I hope your Excellency will pardon, my obtruding this subject on you; as my sole motive is, to give my testimony to the faithful services of a good Officer; which I am persuaided will not be disagreable to the Commander in Chief of the Army of the United States.  I have the honor to be with great truth your Excellencys most obedient and most humble servant

                     Alexr McDougall


Title: From George Washington to David Forman, 25 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters Philadelphia Feby 25th 1782

                  I received last Evening your favor of the 23d and thank you for the information contained in it.
                  As I have made it an invariable practice not to give permission for any Citizens to go within the Enemy’s Lines on private business; without liberty is first obtained from the Executive of the State to which they belong, I must refer the Persons mentioned in your Letter to the Civil Authority for that purpose—Upon their obtaining such permission, there will be no difficulty in granting Passports to pass & repass our Guards on the Lines.  I am Dear Sir With great regard & esteem Your Most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington

               P.S. The situation of the Enemy being extremely critical, the knowledge of every movement on their part will be equally interesting to us—I need not, I am persuaded, again entreat that you will give me the earliest & best communications on that subect.


Title: From George Washington to John Hanson, 25 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Hanson, John

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia Feby 25th 1782

                  I have received intelligence, thro’ a good channel, that 19 large Transports sailed from New York, on monday last, for Charles Town; My Informant adds, common Report says that they are only to call at Charles Town, and proceed to Europe; but that it is the opinion of the more Informed that those Transports are sent for the purpose of bringing the Troops off, and that Charles Town will be evacuated—He mentions also as a corroborating circumstance to this opinion, that the Enemy are building Barracks in New York.
                  Another Correspondent informs, "that the Fleet sailed under convoy of the Rotterdam & one Frigate, and he makes no doubt it is destined for Charles Town"—I thought it proper to communicate this information just as I have received it, and have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John McDonald, 25 February 1782
From: McDonald, John
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Lancaster, Pensylvania 25th February 1782.

                  Relying upon that liberality of sentiment you are universally considered to possess, I have presumed thus  to address your Excellency to solicite your indulgence in the following request, which if you are good enough to grant, I shall ever retain a due sense of.
                  By the fortune of War I was taken prisoner under Lord Cornwallis at York in Virginia.  I have an Uncle in St Mary’s County Maryland, John Somervell by name, whom I never saw, but as I have often heard my Mother mention him with great tenderness and affection.  I am acceedingly desirous to pay him a visit,could I be so happy Sir, as to obtain your permission for that purpose.

                      As my request can in noways affect the Publick, and as  I should hold a Parole in St Mary’s County, as sacred as in any other part of the Continent, I flatter myself General Washington will not give me a refusal.  I have the honor to be Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant,

                     John McDonald
                     Lieut. 80th British Regt


Title: From George Washington to Henry Clinton, 26 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, Henry

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia 26 Feby 1782

                  I have been honored with your Excellency’s Letters of the 10th and 11th Inst.  I enclose a passport for the Gentleman in the Quarter Master Department, whom you propose sending with Money for the British and German Prisoners of War at Lancaster &c.  I have left a blank for his name which you will be pleased to fill up—I have no objection to the Person, for whom the former passport was granted, remaining at Lancaster and other places in the Neighbourhood for the purposes you mention, he subjecting himself to a Parole of a proper nature.  I shall direct Colonel Dayton to furnish an Escort upon the arrival of your Officers at Elisabeth Town, and their application to him.
                  Upon being favor’d with the usual descriptions of the Vessels, which you propose sending into the Delaware and Chesapeake with Cloathing and other necessaries for the Prisoners of War; passports shall be transmitted to you, and directions shall be lodged at the places of debarkation, to permit the goods to be transported from thence by land, to the places of their destination.
                  I have appointed the meeting of our respective Commissioners to be at Elisabeth Town on the 15th of next Month—If I hear nothing further from Your Excellency I shall take it for granted that you accede to the time and place—And I would propose as is usual in such cases, that a cessation of Hostilities should take place, during the meeting, from Amboy to Newark both included.
                  As my Commissioners will go fully authorised to treat of the Exchange of Lord Cornwallis and the Honble Mr Laurens, I have no occasion to be particular in my answer to your Excellency’s Letter on that subject—I shall only observe that I apprehend Lord Cornwallis misunderstood Colonel Laurens in the conversation they had upon that matter in Virginia—I could never have given an assurance His Lordship should be exchanged for Mr Laurens, the Father of the Colonel, as I had no authority to make any such stipulation.  I have the honor to be Sir, Your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Elias Dayton, 26 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

                     Sir
                     Philada 26th Feby 1782.

                  At the request of Sir Henry Clinton I have promised an escort to a sum of Money which he is to send out for the use of the prisoners of War at Philada and other places—The Officers having charge of it will apply to you upon their arrival at Elizabeth Town, upon which you will furnish a Guard commanded by a sensible spirited Subaltern, who is to accompany them to Philada.  Upon his arrival there and making application to the secretary at War he will be relieved—The nature of the service points the line of conduct which the Officer is to observe.  I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Wilhelm von Knyphausen, 26 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Knyphausen, Wilhelm von

                     Sir
                     Philada 26: February 1782.

                  I have been honored with your Excellency’s favors of the 23d of November and 21st of January last.  I beg you will be persuaded that there were particular reasons which operated against permitting an officer to come to Philada with money for the Hessian prisoners of War there at the time the request was first made—I now inclose a passport, which may be filled up with the name of any other Officer but that of Lieut. Sobbel—The last time that Gentleman was sent upon business of a similar nature there was a difference between him and some of the people here, which is the reason of my objecting to him at present.
                  As an Officer will be sent out by Sir Henry Clinton with Money for the prisoners of War at their different places of Cantonment, I would recommend it to your Excellency to direct the Gentleman who will be appointed by you to come at the same time—I shall order an escort from Elisabeth Town and he will therefore travel perfectly safe.  I have the honor to be Yr Excellency’s Most obt and hble servt.

                  By His Excellency George Washington Esquire General and Commander in Chief of the Armies of the United States of America.Permission is hereby granted to   proceed from New York to Philada with a sum of Money for the Use of the Hessian Prisoners of War in that City—Upon his arrival there he is to report himself to the Secretary at War and conform, during his stay, to such restrictions as may be imposed upon him.  Given under my Hand and Seal at Philada this 26th day of Feby 1782.


Title: To George Washington from Jeremiah Olney, 26 February 1782
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Providence 26th Feby 1782

                  I have the honor to inform your Excellency the Genl Assembly are Convend at this Town, in Consequence of an order from his Excellency the Govr they did not make a house till this after noon, when your Excellencies Dispatches to the Govr &c. were Read, after which the house Immediately enterd upon the Business of Reuniting—I am Sorry to inform your Excellency that the Assembly was Reluctantly Compell’d to order the men Call’d for to Compleat their Battallion, to Serve only nine months from the day of passing muster—the Resources of the State having been So greatly Draind by their Extraordinary Exertions in Raising men & Supplies the last year & the very pressing Demands for money for Support of the army the present year, have put it out of the power of the State to make provision for Raising the men for a longer time—The House are Spirited on the matter & will Exert themselves Greatly to have all the men Inlisted as Early as possible—the Bounty & mode for procuring the men is not yet adopted.  Tho Classing Seems to be the only mode that Will be attended with Success & I have no doubt it will be adopted—altho this important Business is not Compleated, I Cannot omit informing your Excellency that I am Inducd to hope from the present Disposition of the House, that Decisive measures will be adopted—Lieut. Taylor of my Regmt Setts off in the Morning with one month pay for the Troops, which I have obtained from the State—he will have the Honor of Delivering this. I am with Great Esteem Your Excellencies Obedt Servt
                  Jereh Olney


Title: From George Washington to Abraham Skinner, 26 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Skinner, Abraham

                     Sir
                     Philada 26th Feby 1782

                  The 15th of next Month is appointed for the meeting of the Commissioners at Elizabeth Town, by which time you will prepare such papers and matters as may depend upon you.
                  Upon your arrival at Elizabeth Town, you will secure quarters not only for our Commissioners but for the British, and as it is possible that Admiral Digby may send Commissioners also, it will be well to have a House held in reserve for such a contingency.
                  You will immediately forward the letters herewith for sir Henry Clinton—Admiral Digby and Genl Knyphausen. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 27 February 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,
                     Head quarters, Highlands February 27th 1782.

                  I have been honored with yours of the 19th instant.
                  I did not receive a letter from the superintendant of finance by the last post, respecting the price charged for the ration issued to the officers.  The inclosed observations were handed to me a day or two since by lord Stirling, from which your Excellency will see a state of the matter and the uneasiness which consequently exists among the Officers of all ranks.
                  Nothing has been said with respect to artificers rations, or men on constant hard duty—They have heretofore been allowed a ration and half per day when so employed—Indeed, it is not possible for a man to work hard all day on the single ration.  At present we have very few artificers, except those which are taken from the regiments; and if men who are armorers, smiths, carpenters, wood cutters, boatmen, colliers, masons, &c. are to labor hard all day, and receive neither pay or extra allowance of provisions more than those who are idle in quarters, they will not work, at least to very great advantage.  They always have had a larger ration, and the propriety seems evident.  but what the present intention is, I know not.  I therefore request to be informed whether the rations of artificers, and of men on constant hard fatigue, are to be as heretofore, or not, that I may direct accordingly.  I have the honor to be With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                     W. Heath

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        Fishkill Feby 22d 1782

                     I ever understood that the contract for supplying the Army with provisions was intended to be made convenient to the Officers of the Army, as well as oeconomical to the public that the Officers were to receive the benefit of it, so far as they might have occasion to draw for their Provisions; or in other words that the contractors were bound to supply the Officers with what provision they might have occasion for at the same price, which they receive from the public for what they supply to the Soldiers and that the ballance if any due to the Officers should be receiv’d in cash from the paymaster at the same rate & ration which the public paid to the contractors for the same article.
                     This seem’d an equitable and commodious plan and was pleasing to officers of all ranks; but to my amazement on attempting to settle my account with Mr Sands, I found that on an average he had charg’d me upwards of 40 per cent higher than he has agreed with the Superintendant of Finance to furnish the articles at  Least there should be a suspicion of this being an assertion at random or founded on error I have in the margin noted* the prices of the articles in the Contract compared with those in my account, which  by an accurate calculation the average differ 43 per Cent in Mr Sands favour; an enormous profit to receive over and above the profits of his contract. When Mr Sands made his proposals for the contract, he doubtless put the price of the Ration at such a rate as would bring him a profit sufficient to reimburse him all his expences, and to recompence him for all the risque, and trouble he must necessarily sacrafice by the undertaking; or we must suppose him to be, what no man who knows Mr Sands will allow him to be.   If Mr Sands was content with that profit on the Rations which he was to supply to the Soldier; should he not be content with the like profit on what he supplies to the officer, or merely because he is an Officer is he to pay the Contractor 43 perCent more than the public allows him for the same article, and more than the same Contractor has agreed with the public to furnish them for.What authority Mr Sands has for attempting this very extraordinary imposition on the Officers of the Army I know not. I am sure he has none from the Financier nor will he receive any from that quarter; it can have no other than his own avarice and impudence. Indeed the former must have been strongly impell’d by so alluring a doceur as ten thousand pounds Pr Annum, which if the Rations of Officers within this contract amount to fifteen hundred which I am sure they cannot fall short of.  see margin*.  It there also appears that what he has agreed with the public to supply for £21653, he oblidges the Officers to pay him £30963, for pensylvania currency, and in ready money hard cash, receiv’d monthly, without risque by credit or bad debts.  It there also appears that the Ration which he agreed to supply for 9d. 1/2 he extorts from the Officers 13d. 5/8.  It is indeed one of the most bare faced impudent impositions that ever was attempted to be put upon mankind, without the aid and authority of the most arbitrary Tyrant.  I wonder Mr Sands should conceive that any set of the most ignorant men would submit to it.  But to suppose, that the Officers of this Army would tamely submit to be rob’d of so large a proportion of their dearly earn’d bread, must discover a total ignorance of their real character, and such an intoxication in the brain of Mr Sands as nothing could have produc’d, but the extasy of grasping the golden fruit his avaritious imagination had just created.

                        * By contract the prices are
                     Charg’d by Mr Sands & Co.1 lb. Beef3 1/2 4d 1/21 lb. Bread1 1/22 1/21 Gill W.I. Rum3 1/24 1/21 Qt Salt9151 lb. Candles12151 Qt Vinegar3  4 1/2  32 46
                     32:46::100:143 or 43 pr Cent advance.

                     *1500 Rations at 9d 1/2 is 59..6..6 per day365. days21653per Annum43 percent additional profit9310.15.pensylvania Currency309639310.15 Pensylvania is9931..10.N. York Currency

                     100:143::9 1/2: 13 5/8.


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 27 February 1782
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Williamsburgh, February 27th 1782.

                  I have received your Excellency’s Letter of the 9th instant, brought by Colonel Robert Dillon.  The Legion de Lauzun by this time must be arrived at Charlotte court house, it will be needfull that it stay there some time, because the men are almost quite naked, and I shall forward them their cloathing which I expect from Boston, as well as that of all the army, as soon as possibly can be done after its arrival.  In these circumstances, I have not thought fit to empower Mr De Choisy to proceed further, Because on one part, I feared that the requests for that movement might not be absolutely necessary, and on the other part, I knew too well the ardor and desire of going forward and to be detached from the main body, which is natural to our nation.  I am here at hand to send them orders, relative to the intelligences which they will send me from General Greene’s army, if the circumstances were so urgent as to render their march absolutely necessary.  About eight days ago, several detachments of different Southern Regiments, amounting to 500 men, marched towards that army.  In a little excursion I made in the heart of the State, I have seen Colonel Armand’s Legion at Charlotteville, it will be ready in a month, if 60 horses which He expects from Philadelphy, arrive.  If your Excellency does not hurry the assembling of the reinforcements which this State is to furnish to General Greene’s army, I think I ought to let you know that the assembly has broken up, without resolving any thing, or furnishing the means of recruting, so that, it should seem that Virginia in the present movement, Looks on itself as in possession of peace.
                  The privateers are become very bold, since the Loss of the Diligente, some are entered the bay.  The Sybille is gone out to chase them.  I presume that before long, we shall receive from France a plan of next campaign, in that case, I think it would be very necessary that we should have a conference together.  I am confident your Excellency would not be against seeing Mount Vernon, your agreable seat, if convenient it should be our place of rendezvous, as the most Suitable place.
                  I am very sensible to your Excellency’s attention about the engraving of the field pieces, which you destine for me, I don’t Look upon them as very urgent to be delivered, and I think it would be most Suitable to keep them at Philadelphy, whence Mr Morris might send them to France, when peace is made.  They might be transported to Nantes, whence by going up the river as far as Tours.  I would get them carried to Rochambeau which is only twelve Leagues distant from that city.  I am with respect and personal attachment Sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient humble Servant

                     le cte de Rochambeau

                     I think the chevalier de La Luzerne must by this time be on the road to come here, if he is not, I beg you would tell him to have no uneasiness about the Privateers, because Mr De La Villebrune will take care to see him carried safely over.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tasker Dulany, 28 February 1782
From: Dulany, Benjamin Tasker
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,
                     Rosehill. Feby 28th 1782

                  Your letter tho’ long received, it has never been in my power to answer fully, until parties concerned had made up their Minds.
                  Mr Manley’s Land mentioned by you, is entirely at the disposal of Mr William Triplett the Executor, who says, "he shall dispose of it immediately upon seeing an Opportunity of laying out the Sales to the Childrens advantage"; from your discription of that, and Mrs French’s land, I do not think it will suit any one so well as yourself.
                  Mrs French after long consideration has come to the following determination Vizt That she will Barter the land on Dogue Run for Land of equal value near the place where she now lives, be it more or less, and that she is willing Mr Lund Washington, Mr Humphrey Peake, Mr William Triplett and Mr Charles Little settle the Exchange between both.
                  There is now a piece of Land to be disposed of that Mr French is fond of, tho property of Do and Co. and I dare say the Lands adjacent might be purchased, which woud suit very well.
                  Your very friendly Letter would have long since been acknowledged, had the matter contained in it only concerned myself.  Old Folks are not easily satisfied and especially Widows.  I am Dear General (with the highest Esteem and Respect) Your Most Obedient Humble Servt

                     Benja: Dulany


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Harrison, Sr., 28 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Harrison, Benjamin, Sr.

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia Feby 28th 1782

                  I have been honored with Your Excellencys favor of the 8th of February, since the receipt of which, letters of a later date from Colo. Febiger and Lt Colo. Posey have come to hand.
                  From their reports, (notwithstanding the imprudent steps which had been taken) I am glad to learn, the Officers who had signed the representation were convinced of, and sorry for, the impropriety and unguardedness of the expressions contained in it; and that the Detachment, having received a partial supply of necessaries, was on the point of marching.  This, I am persuaded has been done, without the interposition of force to compel them to it—It would have given me the most sensible pain, to have heard there was occasion for such an application to the Count De Rochambeau as such a measure would have impressed our Allies with very disadvantageous ideas of us, afforded our Enemies an opportunity of making unfavorable suggestions, and possibly, might have been productive of very ill consequences on other accounts.
                  I have reason to expect, that, as ample and permanent provision (as our circumstances can admit) will be made respecting the Staff department at the Southward, before Colo. Carrington departs from this place—The arrangement is now in agitation between the Quarter Master General, the Minister of Finance, and the Deputy Quarter Master Colo. Carrington who I trust will be able to give you a satisfactory account, at his return.
                  The present circumstances are such as render it inexpedient, to order the Virginia Troops stationed at Pittsburg from thence—that Garrison will not bear a deminution without endangering the loss of the Post, and the devastation of the Frontier in consequence.
                  There can be no probability that the Virginia Troops will be incorporated with the Regiment of Pennsylvania.  And Your Excellency will recollect that it is inconsistent with the establishment of the Army, to make the Men belonging to one State, count as part of the quota of another, in consequence of any reformation, or new arrangement of Corps, whatever.I have the honor to be with much esteem Your Excellencys Most Obt Hum. Ser.

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Maxwell, 28 February 1782
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Sussex County, Greenwich Township Febry 28th 1782

                  After my most harty Congratulations to Your Excellency on Your last glorious Campaign; which with the others will be cause of rejoicing to America to the latest times.  I must beg leave to remind You that in the latter end of Septr 1780, while You lay with Your Army near Dobses ferry, I presented a small account of my disbursements while commanding on the Lines in the Year 1777 & 1778 which You was pleased to grant me Warrent for; but as You informed me that You could not allow any thing for depreciation (which I did not know till I had received the Warrent) and as the money then passed, it appeared to be no recompence, and my Friends including some of Your Family, thought I had better defer it to some future day, when more ample satisfaction could be made.  I therefore returned the Warrent to Colo. Tilman I think who made an entry of it.  You was too much engaged in business to be waited on or I should have done it.
                  I hope the time is now come, when full restitution can be made.  I would therefore beg You would order a few Lines to be sent me by the Barer to inform me when I shall wait on You with the account, or if it will do to authorize some other person to draw it, the latter method will sute me best, what makes me the more pressing at present (and I hope will have its proper weight with Your Excellency) is that notwithstanding I had considerable outstanding debts in the Country since before the War began I have not been able to collect a six pence of it since I retired from the Service.  I am Sir with the utmost respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servant

                     Wm Maxwell


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 28 February 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                     Sir
                     Phila. 28th Feby 1782.

                  I do myself the honor to inclose Capt. Van Heers Estimates of the sums in his opinion sufficient to recruit—mount and accoutre his Corps—Agreeable to your desire I applied  the beginning of this month to the President and Council for an advance of a sum of Money for recruiting, upon this principle, that as the Men would be raised in the state and considered as part of its Quota, it appeared to me but reasonable that the State should furnish Money for the purpose.  I recd for answer, that Colo. Humpton was recruiting Men for the State at large and that I might at any time, if I thought proper, draft the number of Men requisite to fill Capt. Van Heers Corps, from the line.  This would in fact be doing nothing—it would only increase one Corps at the expence of another.
                  The duty of Capt. Van Heers Corps is so essential that I wish to see it re established by the opening of the Campaign, and I for that reason request that such assistance may be given him as you can afford and as early as possible.  I have the honor to be &c.


Title: Estimate of Enemy in New York, February 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                        February 1782

                  Estimate of Enemy force in New York & its Dependencies with the disposition of it, February 1782
                  PostsCorpsStrengthYork IslandGarrison of the City40th British Regiment2001 Battalion Hessians2002 Battns Hessian Grenadr1100   1500Fort Knyphausen2 Battns Hessians 400 ea.       800Near Fort Knyphausen37th British Regiment3001 Battn Hessians350 650Morris’s HouseArnolds Amn Legion 180 Hand 100 Infanry280Arnolds Barracks2 Battalions Hessians 700Greenwich42d British—2Battalns               700  4630Long IslandJamaica2 Battns BritishGrenadrs800Ludlows Batn D’Lancys Brig.       800Flushing Fly38th Regimt British300 54th  Do      Do 400Robinson Loyal Amn R.200900NewtownColo. Thompson KingsAm. D.                 200Westbury17th Dragoons Hone & F.  200Hessian Yagers350550Hallets CoveHessians comd. by C: Emek700BrooklineLoyal Forresters 50   3200Staten IsldFlagg Staff57 British Regiment350Buskirks200550RichmondD’Lanceys—late Barter230Paulus hook22d British Regiment300100 B. light & lco Hesi. 200500  1280  9110

                  Remarks.
                  It is a doubt whether the Hessians commanded by Emerick are Regimented—They consist of Recruits that came the last summer.
                  The greater part of the Pensicola Garrison are draughted into other B: Regiments.
                  It is said by some that there are 4 Battns Hessian Grenadiers—but, be this as it may, it is certain that the total number of them does not exceed 1100.
                  The deserters brought to New York in the Bonetta were draughted into Arnolds & Thompsons Corps.
                  Great desertions from Delancys Regt have taken place since this estimation was made.


Title: List of Enemy in New York, February 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                        February 1782

                  A List of Enemy Corps in New York & its Dependencies, with the distribution of them Feby 1782.
                  Yk IsldCity of New York40th Regiment4 Battns Hessn GrenrsLandgraves RegimtKnyphausens DoGreenwich42 RegimentE. River Marsten’s 6th RtDonops RegemtMcGowans passPrince Charles DoRegemt Du CorpsFort KnyphausenHannau Regimt37th RegimtArnolds CorpsYk: IsldBrooklinAnhault ZerbertJamaica2 Battns Brith GrenrFlushing38th RegimentDitto54 RegimentNarrowsRegimt of BrunswkHempstead17th light DragnsHerricksHessian YaugersFlatbush3rd Batn DelancyDittoKings Amn DragnsHallets CoveLoyal ForrestersNewtownGarrison of Pensa.Hn IsldFlagstaff57th RegimentRichmond1st Battn Skinners B.Flagstaff3 Battn Do DoJerseyPaulus hook22d Regt Lt Infantry &
              a detacht primy N. Yk

                     The intelligence from which GW made notes is dated 6 Feb. 1782 and was sent by Elias Dayton with his letter of 9 Feb. 1782.


Title: From George Washington to Elias Dayton, 1 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Philadelphia March 1st 1782

                        I have received your Letter of the 22nd of Febry enclosing the Proceedings of a Court Martial on James Fury a
                            Soldier of the 2nd Regt of Jersey who is sentenced to death for desertion—I have approved the Sentence, without appointing
                            the time for his Execution—Should it, upon farther consideration, be deemed necessary that an example of this kind should
                            be made at the present time, and that the Person now under Sentence is a proper subject for such an example; you will be
                            pleased to signify the same to me—And a Warrant will be made out accordingly—otherwise the punishment may still be
                            remitted.
                        I had heard thro’ another channel, of the sailing of the Fleet you mention, but am not perfectly satisfied
                            with regard to the supposed object of it, should that be ascertained, or any other Movement take place, I shall be glad to
                            be advised thereof, as soon as may be—and also whether there is any truth in the report that Barracks are building in New
                            York, & preparations making for the reception of Troops; which would be a strong circumstance to corroborate the
                            opinion that the Fleet is destined to Charles Town—if the fact is so (that is, respecting the preparations) it must be a
                            matter of such public notoriety as cannot escape the most cursory or superficial observation. I am Sir, With great regard
                            Your Most Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Francis Mentges, 1 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Mentges, Francis

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia March 1st 1782

                        I have to acknowledge the recet of your two Letters of 26 Decr and 9th feby and to thank you for your care
                            and Mention to the Hospital Department. I am sorry that you have had so many difficulties to Struggle with in the
                            execution of that duty. They were the unavoidable consequences of the deranged state of our affairs in that State.
                        It was entirely owing to my being unacquainted with your having drawn on the Paymaster Genl that your Bill
                            was protested—I have given orders for its being paid and have acquainted Count Rochambeau therewith—A small supply of
                            Cloathing is orderd on to you, but should it not arrive before the Hospital is broke up you will take the proper measures
                            to have it Sent on to the Southard.
                        From your last letter I should suppose the number of Sick at this time to be very small and if the Hospital
                            could be entirely broke up it would be a pleasing circumstance—those Convalescents who belong to the Northward might be
                            sent by water to the Head of Elk & those of Virginia to the Genl Rendezvous at Cumberland old Court House—I cannot say I
                            approve of furloughing the Sick when it can possibly be avoided—in general it is so many men lost to the Service for few
                            of them Join their Corps when recoverd. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Christian Febiger, 2 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Febiger, Christian

                            Sir
                            Philada 2d March 1782.

                        I have recd your favor of the 10 ult. and am happy to find that the officers had been sensible of the
                            impropriety of the manner and state of their representation and that the detachment had marched to the Southward.
                        From the situation in which matters were I cannot blame you for the prompt execution of Hawkins—The necessity
                            of the case, especially in military concerns, must often justify what is in fact an irregular mode of proceeding.
                        Lt Colo. Carrington is now here making arrangements for the regular support of the Quarter Masters department
                            in the State of Virginia and will be down before another detachment can be ready to march—you will therefore I hope have
                            no further difficulties upon that score—And I shall direct the Cloathier General to have three or four hundred suits of
                            Cloathes dropped at the place of General Rendezvous in Virginia, to equip the Recruits as they may come in—The supply can
                            be occasionally kept up—The Cloathing will go to the care of you or whoever may be the superintending Continental Officer
                            and it must on no account be issued but for Continental use.
                        I wish it were in my power to give you and the officers remaining in Virginia any immediate hope of Money.
                            The superintendant of Finance is making every effort so to arrange the affairs of his department that he may make regular
                            payments to the whole Army—In order to do this he is obliged totally to suspend, for the present, all
                            partial payments—His dependance is upon the compliance of the states with the requisitions of Congress, and the moment
                            they furnish him, either with Money or Money’s worth he will commence his payments—We have long struggled with
                            difficulties which seemed almost insurmountable, but I am confident if the Officers will have patience to wait for the
                            operations of the systems which have lately been introduced, that they will no longer have the same reasons of Complaint,
                            that they have formerly had.
                        You will let me hear from time to time what success you have in recruiting. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 2 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                            Dear Sir
                            Philadelphia 2nd March 1782

                        I am desired by the Superintendant of Finance, to make you acquainted with a mode which he has fallen upon to
                            supply the Officers with Cloathing and to explain to you the reasons why it will operate upon the Officers, under your
                            Command, in a manner different from what it will upon those to the Southward.
                        Our dependance for Officers cloathing was upon a quantity expected in the ship Marquis de la Fayette from
                            France, but she having unfortunately miscarried, it became necessary to devise other means, as the Officers could not as
                            formerly, look up to their respective States they having been called upon by Congress for a sum adequate to the whole
                            expences of the War.
                        The Financier, unprovided with present Funds, was obliged to seek means of anticipating the Taxes which he
                            might expect to receive in the course of the year, he therefore sought for and found gentlemen willing to supply the
                            necessary quantity of goods upon a credit of Six Months, which were to be deliverd at the different places of Cantonments,
                            and in order to enable the Officers to take up & pay for them he gave each subaltern a note equal to three Months
                            of his Pay, and to each Captain and all others of superior Rank a note equal to two Months pay payable in Six Months,
                            these notes the owners of the goods are to take at their full value. But there is no obligation upon any Officer to
                            receive them or after he has taken them to lay them out with the public Agent. Should he have already provided himself
                            with Cloathing he may keep his Notes, or dispose of them in any manner he may think proper. The foregoing relates to the
                            Officers in the Northern Army.
                        The financier proposes furnishing the Officers under your command with notes of a similar nature but no goods
                            will be sent to the Southard as by your information subsequent to having sent off Major Burnett you had had an opportunity
                            of providing a quantity sufficient for the supply of your Officers.
                        As the Notes will be punctually paid in Six Months after their date I would wish you to recommend to the
                            Officers who accept of them, not to part with them but at their real value. Any persons wanting to make remittances to the
                            Northward ought gladly to purchase them up—and those Gentlemen who have connections at this place or at Baltimore may
                            lodge them with their friends and order down the Specie or any kind of Cloathing or Stores. It is possible, but of that I
                            can give no assurance, that specie may be sent to the Southard to redeem these notes at the stipulated time.
                        I have been thus full upon the subject that the Officers under your Command may know that they are put upon
                            the same footing with the Officers in this quarter, and that measures would have been taken to have sent Goods from hence
                            had not you, as I have before said, informed the Financier that you had luckily procured a supply upon or near the
                            spot.With great esteem I am Dr Sir Your Very obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Jackson, 2 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Jackson, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Philadelphia March 2nd 1782

                        The enclosed petition in behalf of Ezekiel Addams, an orphan, whose Parents both died in the public Service,
                            in my opinion merits attention—Being convinced of the truth of the Facts set forth in the sd Petition, from Genl Moultrie’s
                            Certificate & other enquiries that have been made, I cannot help recommending that measures may be taken for furnishing
                            at the public expence a support for the Orphan abovemention’d agreeably to the Tenor of the Petition. I am Sir Your Most
                            Obedt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to John McDonald, 2 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: McDonald, John

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia 2nd Mch 1782

                        I have reced your favor of the 25th feby requesting permission to go to Maryland on a Visit.
                        It will always give me pleasure to grant every possible indulgence to Gentlemen in your situation that can be
                            granted with propriety and I am extremely sorry the request you now make cannot be considerd of that nature. I am
                            &c.


Title: From George Washington to James Wood, 2 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Wood, James

                            Sir
                            Phila 2 March 82

                        I have to reply to your favor of the 2nd feby—With respect to the proposition of the Prisoners—tho’ in some
                            instances it might be attended with advantage yet if once the precedent is established the applications of that nature
                            will it is to be feared become general & that the far greatest part of them would have no other intention but to
                            return to the Enemy especially the British; besides, tho’ from the present appearance of things we are not likely to want
                            them as objects of Exchange, the Events of War are uncertain and it would not be proper to put them intirely out of our
                            power however a very good judgement may be formed of the inclinations of many of them & such as fully Evince a
                            desire of remaining in the Country may be distinguished from the rest and kept with us till the last for I only want to
                            have something evincive.


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 3 March 1782
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia March 3. 1782.

                        Your Excellency has been pleased to refer to my determination what boats, besides batteaux & two gun--boats, will be necessary on the Hudson. I shall be happy, nevertheless, to be favoured with your opinion on the
                            arrangements I have had in contemplation relative to this business.
                        The common batteaux being built with pine boards, are of course very tender, and altogether unsuitable for
                            the rough services to which those in common use are applied: they require, besides, at least five hands to work them to
                            advantage. These batteaux are chiefly used at West--Point. If two pettiaugers were provided for that station, the service,
                            I think, would be advanced. Four hands would navigate both. Two pettiaugers would bear, in transportation, as many stores
                            as six or eight batteaux. The bottoms of the pettiaugers being flat, & without keels; they will move in very
                            shallow water.
                        At Kingsferry there are heavy flat--bottomed boats only, in common use, which require five hands each, and
                            more in bad weather. For these I would substitute two pettiaugers, which in calm weather may be rowed with nearly as much
                            ease as a flat bottomed boat; and when at anytime there is a throng at the ferry, the pettiauger may take a flat boat in
                            tow; and thus carry over two loads at once. By employing, in this way, but few hands, Kingsferry ought nearly to maintain
                            itself, at such times as private people and their property can pass that way in safety. Both here and at West Point it
                            will be necessary to keep some batteaux ready for use; either in calm weather, or when an extraordinary transportation is
                            required; tho’ at Kingsferry the number may be very small.
                        The loss and destruction of boats are occasioned principally by their being committed to the management of
                            soldiers indiscrimanately. Until persons are employed whose sole duty it is to take care of them,
                            they never will be preserved. In ordinary service a boat should never move without one of those
                            persons in her. But to provide crews or even cox-swains, for all the boats, would create vast
                            expence.
                        On these principles I think it advisable to inlist a company of watermen, from which the boats in ordinary
                            service, at Newburgh-ferry, West-Point and Kingsferry, should be manned; the residual with their superintendant, to be
                            stationed at West Point, and have in charge all the boats not in common use. These spare boats may be collected, during the
                            campaign, in the creek opposite to West--Point; and being daily inspected by the spare watermen, & frequently by
                            their superintendant (who will be required to have every defect repaired as soon as discovered) they will be in constant
                            readiness for service. Thirty five or forty watermen will, I judge, be sufficient for all these purposes. The pay and
                            subsistence of such a company (they finding their own cloathing) for a year, will probably exceed in expence the pay,
                            cloathing and subsistance of an equal number of soldiers, with a subaltern to command them, by about two thousand dollars
                            only: while the mere bounty money of such a number of Massachusetts recruits will amount to ten thousand dollars.
                        The four pettiaugers, which on this plan must be built, may cost, together, perhaps sixteen hundred dollars,
                            exclusively of the sails, for which there is duck on hand. Or, admitting they should cost two thousand dollars, this is a
                            less sum than the pay and subsistence would amount to, of the additional number of watermen that would, without
                            pettiaugers, be necessary to man flat boats and batteaux. Besides, these pettiaugers will last many years, and fetch nearly
                            their first cost when the public have no farther use for them.
                        In case of any operations against New York, some of the pettiaugers may be withdrawn from the posts above, to
                            ply at Dobbs’ ferry, and up and down the river, in transporting of Stores. Each will carry a burthen equal to seventy or
                            eighty barrels of flour. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s most obedt servant

                            Tim. Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: General Orders, 4 March 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Philadelphia. Monday March 4. 1782
                            Parole
                            C. Signs

                        Four Subalterns and one surgeon from the Pennsylvania Line are immediately to proceed to Fort Pitt to replace
                            a like number of Officers of that line who were left out by the late Arrangement of the Army.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Butler, 4 March 1782
From: Butler, Richard
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Carlisle 4th March 1782

                        Agreeable to your Excellency’s directions on my Arival at this post I endeavourd to get a return
                            distinguishing the remains of old corps recruits &c., these destinations not being made in the returns from the
                            different posts to the commanding officer at the General Rendezvous find it impossible in any other way than by Colo.
                            Humpton who receives them regularly, such as I could get I have inclosd to General Irvine to be laid before your
                            Excellency.
                        The recruiting Success is by no means equal to my hopes, & I fear the detachment which your
                            Excellency intends Sending under my command to the Southern Army will not be so large as you wish, I find the men too
                            generally of the worst kind and many impositions notwithstanding the greatest care—I flatter myself there will be in a
                            Short time 200 men that will be fit to march in case the whole are ordered from the different posts to this place.
                        Cloathing, Tents, Arms, Accoutrements, cariage, &c. will be wanting And I rest Sattisfied your
                            Excellency will Order the  mode of conducting the troops, & obtaining the regular
                            Supplies of provision Forage &c. in order to facillitate my junction with the Southern Army.
                        There are four Captains & four Subs. who belong to the Southd. these will be Suffict to the number of
                            men mentiond Should there be none A few more officers will of course be requested—I have detaind the Above mentiond
                            Officers and wait Your Excellencys further Orders—I am Sir with the greatest respect & friendship your Excellencys
                            most Obedt and very Hbl St

                            Richd Butler Col. 5th
                            Pennsa. Regt


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Gillon, 4 March 1782
From: Gillon, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Havana 4th March 1782

                        When the Ship South-Carolina was at Sea waiting off of the Texel for two Dutch Ships that were coming out to
                            go under her Convoy, loaded with Continental Goods: there was sent onboard, two Boxes from Amsterdam, directed to Your
                            Excellency, which I believe came from the House of Messrs John de Neufville & Son, without any particular advices
                            to Captain Joyner or me; whilst at Corunna, Captain William Jackson, of the Second South–Carolina Regiment, who came
                            Passenger in the South–Carolina to there, demanded these two Boxes. Captain Joyner requested him to produce any proof that
                            they were under his, (W.J’s) care, and that he would deliver them, otherwise, as they were onboard his Ship, he was
                            Responsible, and would not deliver them to any Person without such Proof, or an Order from the Shipper.
                        It being uncertain where the State may direct me to Proceed, I have seized this Opportunity by Captain James
                            Montgomery, as the only one since our Arrival here for Philadelphia, to forward to Your Excellency, the two Boxes in
                            Question, as per Inclosed Receipt, which I wish may reach you soon. I lament that it was not in our power to deliver them
                            as speedily as I wished. With every Sentiment of that Respect always due to Your Excellency, I have the Honour to be Your
                            Excellency’s most Obedient and most humble Servant

                            A. Gillon