Title: Washington’s Sentiments on a Peace Establishment, 1 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Newburgh May 1st 1783

                  A Peace Establishment for the United States of America may in my opinion be classed under four different heads Vizt.
                  First.  A regular and standing force, for Garrisoning West Point & such other Posts upon our Northern, Western, and Southern Frontiers, as shall be deemed necessary to awe the Indians, protect our Trade, prevent the encroachment of our Neighbours of Canada and the Florida’s, and guard us at least from surprizes; Also for security of our Magazines.
                  Secondly.  A well organized Militia; upon a Plan that will pervade all the States, and introduce similarity in their Establishment Manœuvres, Exercise and Arms.
                  Thirdly.  Establishing Arsenals of all kinds of Military Stores.
                  Fourthly:  Accademies, one or more for the Instruction of the Art Military; particularly those Branches of it which respect Engineering and Artillery, which are highly essential, and the knowledge of which, is most difficult to obtain.  Also Manufactories of some kinds of Military Stores.
                  Upon each of these, and in the order in which they stand, I shall give my sentiments as concisely as I can, and with that freedom which the Committee have authorized.
                  Altho’ a large standing Army in time of Peace hath ever been considered dangerous to the liberties of a Country, yet a few Troops, under certain circumstances, are not only safe, but indispensably necessary.  Fortunately for us our relative situation requires but few.  The same circumstances which so effectually retarded, and in the end conspired to defeat the attempts of Britain to subdue us, will now powerfully tend to render us secure.  Our distance from the European States in a great degree frees us of apprehension, from their numerous regular forces and the Insults and dangers which are to be dreaded from their Ambition.
                  But, if our danger from those powers was more imminent, yet we are too poor to maintain a standing Army adequate to our defence, and was our Country more populous & rich, still it could not be done without great oppression of the people.  Besides, as soon as we are able to raise funds more than adequate to the discharge of the Debts incurred by the Revolution, it may become a Question worthy of consideration, whether the surplus should not be applied in preparations for building and equipping a Navy, without which, in case of War we could neither protect our Commerce, nor yield that Assistance to each other, which, on such an extent of Sea-Coast, our mutual Safety would require.
                  Fortifications on the Sea Board may be considered in two points of view, first as part of the general defence, and next, as securities to Dock Yards, and Arsenals for Ship Building, neither of which shall I take into this plan; because the first would be difficult, if not, under our circumstances, impracticable; at any rate amazingly expensive.  The other, because it is a matter out of my line, and to which I am by no means competent, as it requires a consideration of many circumstances, to which I have never paid attention.
                  The Troops requisite for the Post of West Point, for the Magazines, and for our Northern, Western and Southern Frontiers, ought, in my opinion, to amount to 2631. officers of all denominations included; besides the Corps of Invalids.  If this number should be thought large, I would only observe; that the British Force in Canada is now powerful, and, by report, will be increased; that the frontier is very extensive; that the Tribes of Indians within our Territory are numerous, soured and jealous; that Communications must be established with the exterior Posts; And, that it may be policy and œconomy, to appear respectable in the Eyes of the Indians, at the Commencement of our National Intercourse and Traffic with them.  In a word, that it is better to reduce our force hereafter, by degrees, than to have it to increase after some unfortunate disasters may have happened to the Garrisons; discouraging to us, and an inducement to the Enemy to attempt a repetition of them.
                  Besides these Considerations, we are not to forget, that altho’ by the Treaty, half the Waters, and the free Navigation of the Lakes appertain to us, yet, in Case of a rupture with Great Britain we should in all probability, find little benefits from the Communications with our upper Posts, by the Lakes Erie and Ontario; as it is to be presumed, that the Naval superiority which they now have on those Waters, will be maintained.  It follows as a Consequence then, that we should open new or improve the present half explored Communications with Detroit and other Posts on the Lakes, by the Waters of the Susquehannah Potowmack or James River, to the Ohio, from whence, with short Portages several Communications by Water may be opened with Lake Erie.  To do which, Posts should be established at the most convenient places on the Ohio.  This would open several doors for the supply of the Garrisons on the Lakes; and is absolutely necessary for such others as may be tho’t advisable to establish upon the Mississippi.  The Ohio affording the easiest, as well as the safest Route to the Illinois settlements, and the whole Country below on the Mississippi, quite to our Southern boundary.
                  To protect the Peltry and Fur Trade, to keep a watch upon our Neighbours, and to prevent their encroaching upon our Territory undiscovered, are all the purposes that can be answered by an extension of our Posts, at this time, beyond Detroit, to the Northward or Westward: but, a strong Post on the Scioto, at the carrying place between it and the River Sandusky, which empties into Lake Erie, mentioned in Hutchins’s Description of that Country Page 24, and more plainly pointed out by Evans’s Map, is indispensably necessary for the security of the present Settlers, and such as probably, will immediately settle within those Limits.  And by giving security to the Country and covering its Inhabitants, will enable them to furnish supplies to the Garrisons Westward  & Northward of these settlements, upon moderate and easy Terms.
                  The 2,631 Men beforementioned, I would have considered to all Intents and purposes as Continental Troops; looking up to Congress for their Orders, their pay, and supplies of every kind.  The Infantry of which, being 1908 and, composing four Regiments may be thrown into the following disposition.

                  Establishment & Disposition of four Regts of Infantry 1908 Men including Officers.
                  Disposition.OfficersNon Comd officersCommissionedStaffSergt MajorQr Mr SergtDrum MajorFife MajorSergeantsDrum & fifesRank & FileTotalColonelLt ColonelMajorCaptainsLieutsEnsignsChaplainAdjutantP.MasterQr MasterSurgeonMatePenobscot or St Croix or both 133311196150North End of Lake Champlain114441111111128200Connecticut River near the 45th degree112130Ticonderoga11120Establishment & Strength11188811111111112416400477.Niagara11333111111196150Oswego112130Fort Erie No. end of Lake Erie11120Detroit133311196150Streights between Lakes Huron & Superior1113250Establishment & Strength.11188811111111112416400477.Fort Pitt112130Mouth of the Scioto11120Portage between Scioto & Sandusky11333111111196150Mouth of Kentucky or the Rapids112130Mouth of the Ohio or near it11120Height at the mouth of the River Illinois133311196150Establishment & Strength.11188811111111112416400477.To be disposed, as those who are best acquainted with the Frontiers of the Carolinas & Georgia may direct.11188811111111112416400477 Establishment & Strength of 4 Regt4443232324444444444966416001908
						Not having that particular knowledge of the situation of the Southern and Western Boundaries of the Carolinas and Georgia, which is necessary to decide on the Posts to be established in that District, the allotment of only one Regiment thereto, may be judged inadequate; should that be the case, a greater force may be established and sufficient allowance made them.
                  The above establishment differs from our present one, in the following instances Vizt: The exclusion of the light Company and reducing a sergeant and 18 Privates from each of the Battalion Companies, and giving a Chaplain to each Regiment instead of a Brigade.  If it should be asked why the Reduction of Non Commisd Officers and Privates is made, while the Commissioned Officers remain the same?  It may be answered, that the number of Men which compose the Infantry, will be sufficient for my Calculation, and that the situation of our Frontiers renders it...convenient to divide them into so many Corps as have been mentioned, for the ease and propriety of Command.  I may also say, that in my Opinion, the number of our Commissioned Officers, has always been disproportionate to the Men.  And that in the detached State in which these Regiments must be employed, they cannot consistently with the good of Service be reduced.
                  It may also be observed, that in case of War and a necessity of assembling their Regiment in the Field, nothing more will be necessary, than to recruit 18 Men to each Compy and give the Regiment its flank Company.  Or if we should have occasion to add strength to the Garrisons, or increase the number of our Posts, we may augment 900 Men including Serjeants, without requiring more than the Officers of 4 Companies, or exceeding our present Establishment.  In short, it will give us a Number of Officers well skilled in the Theory and Art of War, who will be ready on any occasion, to mix and diffuse their knowledge of Discipline to other Corps, without that lapse of Time, which, without such Provision, would be necessary, to bring intire new Corps acquainted with the principles of it.
                  Besides the 4 Regiments of Infantry, one of Artillery will be indispensably necessary.  The Invalid Corps should also be retained.  Motives of humanity, Policy and justice will all combine to prevent their being disbanded.  The numbers of the last will, from the nature of their composition, be fluctuating and uncertain.  The establishment of the former will be as follows, Vizt.

                      Establishment for One Regiment of Artillery.			Officers.CommissionedStaffNon CommissionedColonel				Lieut ColonelMajorCaptainsCaptn Lieuts.1st Lieutenants2d LieutenantsChaplainAdjutantPay MrQur MasterSurgeonMateSerjt MajorQur M SerjeantDrum MajorFife MajorSerjeantsCorporalsBombadiersGunnersDrums & fifesMatrossesTotal1111010103011111111116060606020390723.To this Regiment of Artillery should be annexed 50 or 60 Artificers, of the various kinds which will be necessary, who may be distributed in equal numbers into the different Companies and being part of the Regiment, will be under the direction and Command of the Commanding Officer, to be disposed into different services as Circumstances shall require.  By thus blending Artificers with Artillery, the expence of Additional Officers will be saved; and they will Answer all the purposes which are to be expected from them, as well as if formed into a distinct Corps.
                  The Regiment of Artillery, with the Artificers, will furnish all the Posts in which Artillery is placed, in proportionate numbers to the Strength and importance of them.  The residue, with the Corps of Invalids, will furnish Guards for the Magazines, and Garrison West Point.  The importance of this last mentioned Post, is so great, as justly to have been considered, the key of America; It has been so pre-eminently advantageous to the defence of the United States, and is still so necessary in that view, as well as for the preservation of the Union, that the loss of it might be productive of the most ruinous Consequences.  A Naval superiority at Sea and on Lake Champlain, connected by a Chain of Posts on the Hudson River, would effect an entire separation of the States on each side, and render it difficult, if not impracticable for them to co-operate.
                  Altho’ the total of the Troops herein enumerated does not amount to a large number, yet when we consider their detached situation, and the extent of Country they are spread over: the variety of objects that are to be attended to, and the close inspection that will be necessary to prevent abuses or to correct them before they become habitual; not less than two General Officers in my opinion will be competent to the Duties to be required of them.  They will take their Instructions from the Secretary at War, or Person acting at the Head of the Military Department, who will also assign them their respective and distinct Districts.  Each should twice a Year visit the Posts of his particular District, and notice the Condition they are in, Inspect the Troops, their discipline and Police, Examine into their Wants, and see that strict justice is rendered them and to the Public, they should also direct the Colonels, at what intermediate Times they shall perform the like duties at the Posts occupied by the Detachments of their respective Regiments.  The visiting General ought frequently, if not always, to be accompanied by a Skillful Engineer, who should point out such alterations and improvements as he may think necessary from time to time, for the defence of any of the Posts; which, if approved by the General, should be ordered to be carried into execution.
                  Each Colonel should be responsible for the Administration of his Regiment; and when present, being Commanding Officer of any Post, which is occupied by a Detachment from his Regt, he may give such directions as he may think proper, not inconsistent with the Orders of his Superior Officer, under whose general superintendence the Troops are.  He will carefully exact Monthly Returns from all detachments of his Regiment; and be prepared to make a faithful report of all occurrences, when called upon by the General officer in whose Department he may be placed and whose instructions he is at all times to receive and obey.  These Returns and Reports, drawn into a General one, are to be transmitted to the Secretary at War, by the visiting General, with the detail of his own proceedings, remarks and Orders.
                  The three Years Men now in service will furnish the proposed Establishment, and from these, it is presumed, the Corps must in the first Instance be composed.  But as the pay of an American Soldier is much greater than any other we are acquainted with; and as there can be little doubt of our being able to obtain them in time of Peace, upon as good Terms as other Nations, I would suggest the propriety of inlisting those who may come after the present three years Men, upon Terms of similarity with those of the British, or any other the most liberal Nations.
                  When the Soldiers for the War have frolicked a while among their friends, and find they must have recourse to hard labour for a livelyhood, I am persuaded numbers of them will reinlist upon almost any Terms.  Whatever may be adopted with respect to Pay, Clothing and Emoluments, they should be clearly and unequivocally expressed and promulgated, that there may be no deception or mistake.  Discontent, Desertion and frequently Mutiny, are the natural consequences of these; and it is not more difficult to know how to punish, than to prevent these inconveniencies, when it is known, that there has been delusion on the part of the Recruiting Officer, or a breach of Compact on the part of the public.  The pay of the Battalion Officer’s is full low, but those of the Chaplain, Surgeon and Mate are too high; and a proper difference should be made between the Non-Commissioned Officers (serjeants particularly) and Privates, to give them that pride and consequence which is necessary to Command.
                  At, or before the Time of discharging the Soldiers for the War, the Officers of the Army may signify their wishes either to retire, upon the Half pay, or to continue in the service; from among those who make the latter choice, the number wanted for a Peace Establishment may be selected; and it were to be wished, that they might be so blended together from the Several Lines, as to remove, as much as possible, all Ideas of State distinctions.
                  No Forage should be allowed in time of Peace to Troops in Garrison, nor in any circumstances, but when actually on a March.
                  Soldiers should not be inlisted for less than three Years, to commence from the date of their attestations; and the more difference there is in the commencement of their terms of Service, the better; this Circumstance will be the means of avoiding the danger and inconvenience of entrusting any important Posts to raw Recruits unacquainted with service.
                  Rum should compose no part of a Soldier’s Ration; but Vinegar in large quantities should be issued.  Flour or Bread, and a stipulated quantity of the different kinds of fresh or Salted Meat, with Salt, when the former is Issued, is all that should be contracted for.
                  Vegetables they can, and ought to be compelled to raise.  If spruce, or any other kind of small Beer, could be provided, it ought to be given gratis, but not made part of the Compact with them.  It might be provided also, that they should receive one or two days fish in a Week, when to be had; this would be a saving to the public, (the Lakes and most of the Waters of the Ohio & Mississippi abounding with Fish) and would be no disservice to the Soldier.
                  A proper recruiting fund should be established; from which the Regiment may always be kept complete.
                  The Garrisons should be changed as often as it can be done with convenience; long continuance in the same place is injurious.  Acquaintances are made, Connections formed, and habits acquired, which often prove very detrimental to the service.  By this means, public duty is made to yield to interested pursuits, and real abuses are the Result.  To avoid these Evils, I would propose, that there should be a change made in every Regiment once a Year, and one Regiment with another every two Years.
                  An Ordinance for the service of Troops in Garrison, should be annexed to our present Regulations for the order & discipline of the Army.  The latter should be revised, corrected & enlarged so as to form a Basis of Discipline under all circumstances for Continental Troops, and, as far as they will apply, to the Militia also: that one uniform system may pervade all the States.
                  As a peace establishment may be considered as a change in, if not the Commencement of our Military system, it will be the proper time, to introduce new and beneficial regulations, and to expunge all customs, which from experience have been found unproductive of general good.  Among the latter I would ask, if promotion by Seniority is not one?  That it is a good general rule admits of no doubt, but that it should be an invariable one, is in my opinion wrong.  It cools, if it does not destroy, the incentives to Military Pride and Heroic Actions.  On the one hand, the sluggard, who keeps within the verge of his duty, has nothing to fear.  On the other hand, the enterprising Spirit has nothing to expect.  Whereas, if promotion was the sure reward of Merit, all would contend for Rank and the service would be benefited by their Struggles for Promotion.  In establishing a mode by which this is to be done, and from which nothing is to be expected, or apprehended, either from favour or prejudice, lies the difficulty.  Perhaps, reserving to Congress the right inherent in Sovereignties, of making all Promotions, A Board of superior Officers, appointed to receive and examine the claims to promotions out of common course, of any Officer, whether founded on particular merit, or extra service, and to report their opinion thereon to Congress; might prove a likely means of doing justice.  It would certainly give a Spur to Emulation, without endangering the rights, or just pretentions of the Officers.
                  Before I close my observations under this head, of a regular force, and the Establishment of Posts, it is necessary for me to observe, that, in fixing a Post at the North End of Lake Champlain I had three things in view.  The Absolute Command of the entrance into the Lake from Canada.  A cover to the Settlements on the New Hampshire Grants and the prevention of any illicit intercourse thro’ that Channel.  But, if it is known, or should be found, that the 45th Degree crosses the Lake South of any spot which will command the entrance into it, the primary object fails; And it then becomes a question whether any place beyond Ticonderoga or Crown Point is eligible.
                  Altho’ it may be somewhat foreign to, and yet not altogether unconnected with the present subject, I must beg leave, from the importance of the object, as it appears to my mind, and for the advantages which I think would result from it to the United States, to hint, the propriety of Congress taking some early steps, by a liberal treatment, to gain the affections of the French settlements of Detroit, those of the Illinois and other back Countries.  Such a measure would not only hold out great encouragement to the Inhabitants already on those lands, who will doubtless make very useful and valuable subjects of the United States; but would probably make deep and conciliatory impressions on their friends in the British settlements, and prove a means of drawing thither great numbers of Canadian Emigrants, who, under proper Regulations and establishments of Civil Government, would make a hardy and industruous race of Settlers on that Frontier; and who, by forming a barrier against the Indians, would give great security to the Infant settlement, which, soon after the close of the War, will probably be forming in the back Country.
                  I come next in the order I have prescribed myself, to treat of the Arrangements necessary for placing the Militia of the Continent on a respectable footing for the defence of the Empire and in speaking of this great Bulwark of our Liberties and independence, I shall claim the indulgence of suggesting whatever general observations may occur from experience and reflection with the greater freedom, from a conviction of the importance of the subject; being persuaded, that the immediate safety and future tranquility of this extensive Continent depend in a great measure upon the peace Establishment now in contemplation; and being convinced at the same time, that the only probable means of preventing insult or hostility for any length of time and from being exempted from the consequent calamities of War, is to put the National Militia in such a condition as that they may appear truly respectable in the Eyes of our Friends and formidable to those who would otherwise become our Enemies.
                  Were it not totally unnecessary and superfluous to adduce arguments to prove what is conceded on all hands the Policy and expediency of resting the protection of the Country on a respectable and well established Militia, we might not only shew the propriety of the measure from our peculiar local situation, but we might have recourse to the Histories of Greece and Rome in their most virtuous and Patrioic ages to demonstrate the Utility of such Establishments.  Then passing by the Mercinary Armies, which have at one time or another subverted the liberties of allmost all the Countries they have been raised to defend, we might see, with admiration, the Freedom and Independence of Switzerland supported for Centuries, in the midst of powerful and jealous neighbours, by means of a hardy and well organized Militia.  We might also derive useful lessons of a similar kind from other Nations of Europe, but I believe it will be found, the People of this Continent are too well acquainted with the Merits of the subject to require information or example.  I shall therefore proceed to point out some general outlines of their duty, and conclude this head with a few particular observations on the regulation which I conceive ought to be immediately adopted by the States at the instance & recommendation of Congress.
                  It may be laid down, as a primary position, and the basis of our system, that every Citizen who enjoys the protection of a free Government, owes not only a proportion of his property, but even of his personal services to the defence of it, and consequently that the Citizens of America (with a few legal and official exceptions) from 18 to 50 Years of Age should be borne on the Militia Rolls, provided with uniform Arms, and so far accustomed to the use of them, that the Total strength of the Country might be called forth at a Short Notice on any very interesting Emergency, for these purposes they ought to be duly organized into Commands of the same formation; (it is not of very great importance, whether the Regiments are large or small, provided a sameness prevails in the strength and composition of them and I do not know that a better establishment, than that under which the Continental Troops now are, can be adopted.)  They ought to be regularly Mustered and trained, and to have their Arms and Accoutrements inspected at certain appointed times, not less than once or twice in the course of every year but as it is obvious, amongst such a Multitude of People (who may indeed be useful for temporary service) there must be a great number, who from domestic Circumstances, bodily defects, natural awkwardness or disinclination, can never acquire the habits of Soldiers; but on the contrary will injure the appearance of any body of Troops to which they are attached, and as there are a sufficient proportion of able bodied young Men, between the Age of 18 and 25, who, from a natural fondness for Military parade (which passion is almost ever prevalent at that period of life) might easily be enlisted or drafted to form a Corps in every State, capable of resisting any sudden impression which might be attempted by a foreign Enemy, while the remainder of the National forces would have time to Assemble and make preparations for the Field.  I would wish therefore, that the former, being considered as a denier resort, reserved for some great occasion, a judicious system might be adopted for forming and placing the latter on the best possible Establishment.  And that while the Men of this description shall be viewed as the Van and flower of the American Forces, ever ready for Action and zealous to be employed whenever it may become necessary in the service of their Country; they should meet with such exemptions, privileges or distinctions, as might tend to keep alive a true Military pride, a nice sense of honour, and a patriotic regard for the public.  Such sentiments, indeed, ought to be instilled into our Youth, with their earliest years, to be cherished and inculcated as frequently & forcibly as possible.
                  It is not for me to decide positively, whether it will be ultimately most interesting to the happiness and safety of the United States, to form this Class of Soldiers into a kind of Continental Militia, selecting every 10th 15th or 20th Man from the Rolls of each State for the purpose; Organizing, Officering and Commissioning those Corps upon the same principle as is now practiced in the Continental Army.  Whether it will be best to comprehend in this body, all the Men fit for service between some given Age and no others, for example between 18 and 25 or some similar description, or whether it will be preferable in every Regiment of the proposed Establishment to have one additional Company inlisted or drafted from the best Men for 3, 5, or 7 Years and distinguished by the name of the additional or light Infantry Company, always to be kept complete.  These Companies might then be drawn together occasionally and formed into particular Battalions or Regiments under Field Officers appointed for that Service.  One or other of these plans I think will be found indispensably necessary, if we are in earnest to have an efficient force ready for Action at a moments Warning.  And I cannot conceal my private sentiment, that the formation of additional, or light Companies will be most consistent with the genius of our Countrymen and perhaps in their opinion most consonant to the spirit of our Constitution.
                  I shall not contend for names or forms, it will be altogether essential, and it will be sufficient that perfect Uniformity should be established throughout the Continent, and pervade, as far as possible, every Corps, whether of standing Troops or Militia, and of whatever denomination they may be.  To avoid the confusion of a contrary practice, and to produce the happy consequences which will attend a uniform system of Service, in case Troops from the different parts of the Continent shall ever be brought to Act together again, I would beg leave to propose that Congress should employ some able hand, to digest a Code of Military Rules and regulations, calculated immediately for the Militia and other Troops of the United States: And as it should seem the present system, by being a little simplified, altered, and improved, might be very well adopted to the purpose; I would take the liberty of recommending, that measures should be immediately taken for the accomplishment of this interesting business, and that an Inspector General should be appointed to superintend the execution of the proposed regulations in the several States.
                  Congress having fixed upon a proper plan to be established, having caused the Regulations to be compiled, having approved, Printed and distributed them to every General Field Officer, Captain and Adjutant of Militia, will doubtless have taken care, that whenever the system shall be adopted by the States the encouragement on the one hand, and the fines and penalties on the other will occasion an universal and punctual compliance therewith.
                  Before I close my remarks on the establishment of our National Militia, which is to be the future guardian of those rights & that Independence, which have been maintain’d so gloriously, by the fortitude and perseverance of our Countrymen, I shall descend a little more minutely to the interior arrangements, and sum up what I have to say on this head with the following Positions.
                  1st That it appears to me extremely necessary there should be an Adjutant General appointed in each State, with such Assistants as may be necessary for communicating the Orders of the Commander in Chief of the State, making the details, collecting the Returns & performing every other duty incident to that Office.  A duplicate of the Annual Returns should always be lodged in the War Office by the 25th of Decr in every year, for the information of Congress; with any other reports that may be judged expedient.  The Adjutant Generals and Assistants to be considered as the deputies of the Inspector General, and to assist him in carrying the system of Discipline into effect.
                  2d That every Militia Officer should make himself acquainted with the plan of Discipline, within a limited time, or forfeit his Commission, for it is in vain to expect the improvement of the Men, while the Officers remain ignorant, which many of them will do, unless Government will make and enforce such a Regulation.
                  3dly That the formation of the Troops ought to be perfectly simple and entirely uniform, for example each Regiment should be composed of two Battalions, each Battalion to consist of 4 Companies and each Company as at present of
                  1 Captain1 Lieutenant1 Ensign5 Sergeants3 Corporals2 Music65 PrivatesTwo Battalions should form a Regiment four Regts a Brigade and two Brigades a Division.  This might be the general formation: but as I before observed, I conceive it will be eligible to select from the district forming a Regiment, the flower of the young Men to compose an additional or light Company to every Regiment, for the purposes before specified, which undoubtedly ought to be the case unless something like a Continental Militia shall be instituted.  To each Division two Troops of Cavalry and two Companies of Artillery might also be annexed, but no Independent or Volunteer Companies foreign to the Establishment should be tolerated.
                  4thly It is also indispensable that such a proportion of the Militia (under whatever discription they are comprehended) as are always to be held in readiness for service, nearly in the same manner the Minute Men formerly were, should be exercised at least from 12 to 25 days in year, part of the time in Company, part in Battalion and part in Brigade, in the latter case, by forming a Camp, their Discipline would be greatly promoted, and their Ideas raised, as near as possible, to real service; Twenty five days might be divided thus, ten days for training in squads, half Companies and Companies, ten in Battalion and five in Brigade.
                  5thly While in the Field or on actual duty, there should not only be a Compensation for the time thus spent, but a full allowance of Provisions Straw, Camp Equipage &c.; it is also of so great consequence that there should be, a perfect similarity in the Arms and Accoutrements, that they ought to be furnished, in the first instance by the public, if they cannot be obtained in any other way, some kind of Regimentals or Uniform Clothing (however cheap or course they may be) are also highly requisite and should be provided for such occasions.  Nor is it unimportant that every Article should be stamped with the appearance of regularity; and especially that all the Articles of public property should be numbered, marked or branded with the name of the Regiment or Corps that they may be properly accounted for.
                  6thly In addition to the Continental Arsenals, which will be treated of under the next head.  Every State ought to Establish Magazines of its own, containing Arms, Accoutrements, Ammunion, all kinds of Camp Equipage and Warlike Stores, and from which the Militia or any part of them should be supplied whenever they are call’d into the Field.
                  7thly It is likewise much to be wished, that it might be made agreeable to Officers who have served in the Army, to accept Commands in the Militia; that they might be appointed to them so far as can be done without creating uneasiness and jealousy, and that the principle Characters in the Community would give a countenance to Military improvements, by being present at public reviews and Exhibitions, and by bringing into estimation amongst their fellow Citizens, those who appear fond of cultivating Military knowledge and who excel in the Exercise of Arms.  By giving such a tone to our Establishment; by making it universally reputable to bear Arms & disgraceful to decline having a share in the performance of Military duties; in fine, by keeping up in Peace "a well regulated, and disciplined Militia," we shall take the fairest and best method to preserve, for a long time to come, the happiness, dignity and Independence of our Country.
                  With regard to the third Head in Contemplation, to wit. the "Establishment of Arsenals of all kinds of Military Stores."  I will only observe, that having some time since seen a plan of the Secretary at War, which went fully into the discussion of this branch of Arrangement, and appeared (as well as I can, at this time recollect) to be in general perfectly well founded, little more need be said on the subject, especially as I have been given to understand the plan has been lately considerably improved and laid before Congress for their approbation; And indeed there is only one or two points in which I could wish to suggest any Alteration.
                  According to my recollection, five grand Magazines are proposed by the Secretary at War, one of which to be fixed at West Point.  Now, as West Point is considered not only by our selves, but by all who have the least knowledge of the Country, as a post of the greatest importance, as it may in time of Peace, from its situation on the Water be somewhat obnoxious to surprise or Coup de Main and as it would doubtless be a first object with any Nation which might commence a War against the United States, to seize that Post and occupy or destroy the Stores, it appears to me, that we ought particularly to guard against such an event, so far as may be practicable, and to remove some part of the Allurements to enterprise, by establishing the grand Arsenals in the Interior part of the Country, leaving only to West Point an adequate supply for its defence in almost any extremity.
                  I take the liberty also to submit to the consideration of the Committee, whether, instead of five great Arsenals, it would not be less expensive and equally convenient & advantageous to fix three general Deposits, one for the Southern, one for the Middle and one for the Eastern States, including New York, in each of which there might be deposited, Arms, Ammunition, Field Artillery, and Camp Equipage for thirty thousand Men, Also one hundred heavy Cannon and Mortars, and all the Apparatus of a Seige, with a sufficiency of Ammunition.
                  Under the fourth General Division of the subject, it was proposed to consider the Establishment of Military Academies and Manufacturies, as the means of preserving that knowledge and being possessed of those Warlike Stores, which are essential to the support of the Sovereignty and Independence of the United States.  But as the Baron Steuben has thrown together his Ideas very largely on these Articles, which he had communicated to me previous to their being sent to the secretary at War, and which being now lodged at the War Office, I imagine have also been submitted to the inspection of the Committee, I shall therefore have the less occasion for entering into the detail, and may, without impropriety, be the more concise in my own observations.
                  That an Institution calculated to keep alive and diffuse the knowledge of the Military Art would be highly expedient, and that some kinds of Military Manufactories and Elaboratories may and ought to be established, will not admit a doubt; but how far we are able at this time to go into great and expensive Arrangements and whether the greater part of the Military Apparatus and Stores which will be wanted can be imported or Manufactured, in the cheapest and best manner: I leave those to whom the observations are to be submitted, to determine, as being more competent, to the decision than I can pretend to be.  I must however mention some things, which I think cannot be dispensed with under the present or any other circumstances; Until a more perfect system of Education can be adopted, I would propose that Provision should be made at some Post or Posts where the principle Engineers and Artillerists shall be stationed, for instructing a certain number of young Gentlemen in the Theory of the Art of War, particularly in all those branches of service which belong to the Artillery and Engineering Departments.  Which, from the affinity they bear to each other, and the advantages which I think would result from the measure, I would have blended together; And as this species of knowledge will render them much more accomplished and capable of performing the duties of Officers, even in the Infantry or any other Corps whatsoever, I conceive that appointments to vacancies in the Established Regiments, ought to be made from the candidates who shall have completed their course of Military Studies and Exercises.  As it does in an essential manner qualify them for the duties of Garrisons, which will be the principal, if not only service in which our Troops can be employed in time of Peace and besides the Regiments of Infantry by this means will become in time a nursery from whence a number of Officers for Artillery and Engineering may be drawn on any great or sudden occasion.
                  Of so great importance is it to preserve the knowledge which has been acquired thro’ the various Stages of a long and arduous service, that I cannot conclude without repeating the necessity of the proposed Institution, unless we intend to let the Science become extinct, and to depend entirely upon the Foreigners for their friendly aid, if ever we should again be involved in Hostility.  For it must be understood, that a Corps of able Engineers and expert Artillerists cannot be raised in a day, nor made such by any exertions, in the same time, which it would take to form an excellent body of Infantry from a well regulated Militia.
                  And as to Manufactories and Elaboratories it is my opinion that if we should not be able to go largely into the business at present, we should nevertheless have a reference to such establishments hereafter, and in the mean time that we ought to have such works carried on, wherever our principal Arsenals may be fixed, as will not only be sufficient to repair and keep in good order the Arms, Artillery, Stores &c. of the Post, but shall also extend to Founderies and some other essential matters.
                  Thus have I given my sentiments without reserve on the four different heads into which the subject seemed naturally to divide itself, as amply as my numerous avocations and various duties would permit.  Happy shall I be, if any thing I have suggested may be found of use in forming an Establishment which will maintain the lasting Peace, Happiness and Independence of the United States.
                G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Louis-Antoine-Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de Cambray-Digny, 2 May 1783
From: Cambray-Digny, Louis-Antoine-Jean-Baptiste, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia May 2d 1783

                  I have the honour to inform Your Excellency that in consequence of your permission the Honourable the Congress in October 30th 1782 was pleased to grant me leave for one year absence to visit my family in France.
                  I have thought that the proper time to give you that information would be at the moment where I should be certain of Sailing, having been detained till now by want of a proper and safe opportunity.
                  I am going in the Frigate la Gloire who will Sail in eight or ten days; notwithstanding that the Opinion of the Secretary at War is that the time of the leave begins at the time of my departure, I do not intend to be absent twelve Month; as Soon as my concerns in France will be Settled I Shall have nothing So at heart as to return to America to join the Army.
                  Whatever may be the events I beg leave to take this opportunity to declare to your Excellency that I am wishing and Shall be extremely happy to Serve the United States as long as my Services will be agreable to them, in consequence I take the liberty to recomend My Self upon any occasion where Congress Should think proper to make any new disposition relative to the Army or the Engineering Department persuaded you will be so good as to recollect of my declaration and to patronise it.
                  The Honourable the Congress has been pleased by a Resolution of the 2d May to promote me to the rank of a Colonel.  I am with the greatest respect Sir Your Excellency’s Most obedient Most humble Servant

                     Cambray
                     Colo. of Engrs


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 2 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

                     Sir
                     Newburgh 2d May 1783.

                  A necessary absence from Camp and several unavoidable interruptions have been the occasion of, and must be my apology for with holding the inclosed thoughts on a peace establishment so long.
                  If they will afford any assistance, or contain anything satisfactory, I shall think my time and labour well spent.  I have the honour to be Sir Your Most Obt servt

                     G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Robert R. Livingston, 2 May 1783
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Philadelphia 2d May 1783

                  I am so sensible of Majr McHenrys merit that even independent of the advantagious light in which your Excellencys recommendation places it I should think myself happy to obtain his services in a line in which I am persuaded they will do honor to his country.  Congress have it not in view at present to make an immediate appointment to London, & while Docr Franklin continues at Paris it would be painful to him to have any other secretary than his grandson, who tho’ not secretary to the embassy exercises the duties of one and has lately been provided for as such by Congress.
                  Should any opportunity offer of sending out Mr McHenry in such character as would be acceptable to him, during the short time of my continuance in office, you may be persuaded that your Excellencys recommendation will render me particularly attentive to avail myself of it.
                  I presume the marquis La fayette has informed you of his business & his success at Madrid—he is indefatigable & has shewn great address in precipitating the Spanish ministers resolution to acknowledge Mr Carmichaels public character as well as in fixing by writing engagements such terms in our proposed treaty as will prevent Spain from being troublesome & I hope produce a lasting good understanding between us.  I have the honor to be Dr Sir with the greatest & most respectful attachment Your Excellencys Most Ob. Hum. Servt

                     Robt R. Livingston


Title: To George Washington from Robert R. Livingston, 2 May 1783
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia, 2d May 1783

                  I was yesterday honored by the receipt of your Letter of the 22d April—I am happy to find that you have determined on a personal interview with General Carleton, which I am satisfied is the most probable means of bringing him to a prompt explanation of his intentions, if, (which I much doubt) he has yet been sufficiently authorized to have formed any.
                  My doubts arise from the debates of the 3d of March, which I think prove that the British administration had not then concluded on the time & manner of the evacuation of New York—One point, however of some importance to the state, may I think with propriety be pressed—If being no longer enemies we are to render each other mutual good offices, there can be no objection to permitting those parts of the state which are not necessary to the case & security of the British Troops to revert to the state, & submit to its jurisdiction.  Long-Island, Staten Island, & Great part of the County of West Chester certainly ought not to be considered as within their Jurisdiction, merely because it was in the power of the British during the war to make inroads upon them—Nor can General Carleton insist upon retaining all of them from the State, without betraying suspicions which our generous conduct in the restoration of the prisoners will shew to be ill founded—or without encouraging such on our part as seem already to have made their way into the British house of Commons—Nothing can be more injurious to the Royalists than to take any measure which has the face of forcing the states to restore them to favor.  Their only resource now must lie in those tender feelings which will begin to take place as our resentments subside, & as we feel ourselves happy in the enjoyment of peace.  I have the honor to be sir with great respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most obedt humble servant

                     Robt R. Livingston


Title: To George Washington from Allen Maclean, 2 May 1783
From: Maclean, Allen
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Niagara 2d May 1783.

                  This day I was honored with your Excellency’s Letter of the 14th April, with it’s different enclosures—On the 21st Ult. a Copy of His Majesty’s Proclamation was sent me by Major Ross from Oswego, to which Post it had been sent by a Flag of Truce from Albany, together with a Letter from Captain Tonge and Mr Robertson; signifying that they were on their way from New York to Canada, with Dispatches from Sir Guy Carleton to His Excellency General Haldimand.  And in order to prevent any Acts of Hostility, I immediately, & with all possible dispatch, sent a Copy of it to Major De Peyster the Commanding Officer at Detroit, in order to prevent any disagreeable consequences that might arise to the Inhabitants of the United States, from the very improper conduct of some of the Men and Officers of Congress in the Indian Country.
                  I must beg leave to mention to your Excellency, that I was a good deal surprized to receive a Letter from Messrs Tonge and Robertson from Albany, acquainting me, that Colonel Willet had made a complaint to them, that the Settlement of Wioming had been lately cut off by the Indians; knowing, as I did, that there was no foundation for any such complaint, and that no attempt whatever had been made against that, or any other Settlement on the Frontiers, since I had the Honor to Command in the upper Posts.  I had the most positive Orders from His Excellency General Haldimand to restrain the light Troops and Indians from any offensive War; and am happy to say, that I have succeeded to my Wishes in obeying that order: at the same time I must do the Indians the justice to declare, that, notwithstanding the very great provocation they met with, They have implicitly followed the directions given them by me, thro His Majesty’s Superintendant, agreeable to the Orders I had received: And that they committed no act of Hostility, except Killing and Scalping two Men within 40 miles of Fort Pitt, by three young Delaware Indians last February, who had been out some months Hunting; and on their return, they were discountenanced by me, in not being suffered to appear with their Scalps, and sent off without receiving any one Thing from the King’s Stores, besides being reprimanded by their Chiefs severely, in the presence of the Superintendant: the greatest mortification an Indian could meet with—They excused themselves, by saying that they had been so many months absent a hunting, and that they had not heard of their being restrained from every Act of Hostility, and were sorry for it.
                  The Extraordinary Expedition of Colonel Willet against Oswego last February greatly alarmed the Indians: and to guard against the attempts of so very enterprizing an Officer, I detached four small Scouts of White Men and Indians each consisting of six Men, to reconnoitre—one of which Scouts took two Men Prisoners, 40 miles on this side of Wioming: They were brought in here unhurt, have been well treated, and are gone to Canada to be restored to their Friends—Colonel Willet’s complaint therefore must have proceeded from this circumstance only, of which He himself was the occasion.  I have taken the liberty to mention these particulars, to prevent such false Reports from gaining any Credit, least it might occasion any disagreeable consequences to either Party.
                  Benevolence and Humanity are noble virtues and constitute the Character of every honest Man; and no set of Men ought to possess, or exercise them in a greater extent, than Military Men; & tho’ I cannot deem the Information, I had the honor to receive from your Excellency, as Official, You may be assured, that I shall pay them that attention, that shall in every respect answer your wishes, and in doing this, I shall only comply with the Orders I received from the Commander in Chief in Canada, previous to my having received His Majesty’s Proclamation; and to convince you, Sir, of the pains and trouble that have been taken by General Haldimand, to prevent, not only every act of Cruelty, but even of Retaliation—I take the liberty of transmitting to you herewith, an Extract from His Letter to me of the 7th last February: and at the same time to assure you that no Acts of wanton cruelty have been meditated by the Indians against the Frontiers this Winter. They once, indeed, resolved to retaliate the very unnecessary Ones, exercised against them by some of the Officers and Troops of Congress; and the conduct and Forbearance of the Indians on that occasion, has been highly Meritorious, and does them great honor. I also take the liberty of transmitting to your Excellency, an Albany News Paper publishing a Letter said to be written from Boston last March—The Printing and Publishing such base and scandalous falsehoods, must be intended for the most wicked purposes, of inflaming the Minds of the ignorant Multitude and to induce them to commit Acts of wanton cruelty against the Indians: And I cannot help being of opinion, that, the permitting such Publications to be Printed (knowing them to be false, which must have been the case) would be a disgrace to any Nation or People under the Sun, who have had any degree of Civilization among them.  It is however a peculiar misfortune which has ever attended all Civil Wars, that a certain degree of Acrimony and Obstinacy prevails, which are unknown in carrying on War between Foreign States.
                  The Blessings of Peace being now restored, I trust in God, that all Animosities shall cease, and that mutual Harmony, and real Reconciliation shall take place, and Feud and Discord be buried in Oblivion.  I have the Honor to be with due Regard Your Excellency’s most humble and most Obedient Servant

                     Allan Maclean


Title: General Orders, 3 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Saturday May 3d 1783
                     Parole Philadelphia
                     C. signs Chester Trentown

                  For the day tomorrow Brigr Genl Greaton
                  B. Qr Mr 3d Massa. Brigade
                  The 1st Massa. regt gives the Guards and the Hampshire regt the fatigues tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to Elias Boudinot, 3 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Boudinot, Elias

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 3d May 1783

                  I take the Liberty to mention to your Excellency, that, in attending to the Resolution of Congress of the 15th of April, respecting the posts in the United States occupied by the British Troops, I find it necessary to apply for a more particular Explanation of the Intentions of Congress than is there expressed.
                  Taking it for granted that the Northern & Western Posts are included within the Ideas of Congress, as well as N. York, Arrangements for receiving possession of those posts, are to be made with General Haldimand, who commands in the District of Canada—As the Communication with him is distant & will take much Time, previous to commencing my Correspondence, it will be requisite that I should be as fully instructed, as circumstances will admit, of the Intentions of Congress respecting those frontier Posts: particularly what footing they are to be placed upon, & what Number of Men will be sent to maintain them, upon the Peace Establishment. Congress will also be impressed with the necessity of adopting the earliest measures possible, for procuring the men for Garrisoning those Posts.  Whether this shall be effected by detaching the Three Years men of the present Army, or furnishing them in some other Manner, will be also to determine.
                  The Posts should certainly be occupied by the United States Troops, the Moment they are evacuated by the British.  Should this be neglected, I have my fears, that they might be burned or destroyed by the Indians, or some other evil minded persons, whose disaffection to the Government of the United States, may lead them to such Enormities.
                  Arrangements for Transporting the necessary Artillery, Stores, Ammunition & Provisions, will require Time, and need immediate Attention—The Season for this Work is now on Hand, and, if suffered to pass off, it will be exceeding difficult, if not impracticable, to effect their Transportation, particularly through the small Water Communications, which, in the present season will be found very convenient, but which, the Summer Heats will render so low, as to become almost impassable.
                  Persuaded that Congress will view these Objects in the same important Light that I do, I promise myself that I shall be favoured with their Instructions at the earliest Moment possible. With great Respect & Esteem I have the Honor to be Sir Your Excellencys Most Obedient and most humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 4 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Sunday May 4th 1783
                     Parole Boston.
                     C. signs Hartford Newport

                  For the day tomorrow Brigr Gen. Putnam
                  B. Qr Mr 2d Massa. Brig’de
                  The 4th Massachusetts regt gives the Guards and the 7th the Fatigues tomorrow.


Title: General Orders, 5 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Newburgh May 5th 1783
                     Parole Baltimore
                     Countersigns Lancaster, Providence,

                  For the day tomorrow Brigr Genl Patterson
                  B.Q.M. Jersey Brigade
                  The 3d Massa. regt gives the Guards & the 6th the Fatigues tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to Guy Carleton, 6 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Carleton, Guy

                     Sir
                     Orange Town 6th May 1783

                  In my Letter of the 21st of April I enclosed to your Excellency a Copy of a resolution of Congress of the 15th instructg me in three points which appear necessary for carrying into Effect the Terms of the provisional Treaty between Great Britain & the United States of America; and informed you, that such part as rested on my decision, and which regarded the Release of Prisoners, had been determined, & was then ordered to be carried into Execution.  Upon the other two points, as they respected the receiving possession of the Posts in Occupation of the British Troops, and the carrying away of any Negroes or other property belonging to the American Inhabitants, they being both within your controul; I had the Honor to propose a personal Interview with your Excellency, that the Subjects might be freely discussed, and that measures might be agreed upon for carrying into Execution those two points of the 7th Article of the Treaty, according to their true Intent & Spirit.
                  Having this Day been favored with a personal conference, I have now, to prevent misapprehension or misconstruction, and that I may be enabled to fulfill my Instructions with fidelity & with candour, the Honor to propose, agreeable to our Conversation, that your Excellency will be pleased to give me in Writing, Information of what measures are adopting on your Post for carrying into execution that Part of the Treaty which regards the Evacuation of the Posts now in possession of the British Troops, & under your Command—and also, at what Time, it is probable those posts, or any of them may be relinquished & the fleets & Armies of his Britannic Majesty withdrawn.
                  Respecting the other point—in addition to what I mentioned in my Communication of the 21st ulto I took occasions in our Conversation to inform your Excellency, that in consequence of your Letter of the 14th of April, to R.R. Livingston Esqr. Congress had been pleased to make a further Preference to me of that Letter, & had directed me to take such measures as should be found necessary for carrying into Effect the several matters mentioned therein by you.
                  In the course of our Conference on this subject, I was surprised to hear you mention that an Embarkation had already taken place, in which a large Number of Negroes had been carryed away—Whether this conduit is consonant or not to, or how far it may be deemed an Infraction of the Treaty, is not for me to decide.  I cannot however conceal from your Excellency, that my private opinion is, that the measure is totally different from the Letter & Spirit of the Treaty—But waving the Discussion of the point & leaving its decision to our respective Sovereigns, I find it my duty to signify my Readiness, in Conjunction with your Excellency, to enter into any agreement, or take any measures which may be deemed expedient, to prevent the future carrying away of any Negroes or other Property of the American Inhabitants.
                  I beg the favor of your Excellencys Reply—and have the Honor to be—With great Consideration & Respect Sir Your most Obedient Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle Duportail, 6 May 1783
From: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle
To: Washington, George

                     sir
                     philad. 6 may 1783

                  agreably to a Resolution of Congress of the 22th of march last I have the honour to inform your excellency that the officers of the Corps—have unanimously agreed to accept of the Commutation.  I have the honour to be with Great Respect Your Excellency’s the most obedient and humble servant

                     duportail
                     maj. general Commdt of the Corps of the Engeneers

                Enclosure

                        philadelphia May the 4th 1783.

                     The officers of the Corps of Engineers having met for the purpose of giving their Opinion respecting the Commutation of the Half pay, agreably to a Resolution of Congress of the 22d of March 1783, have Unanimously agreed to accept of the Commutation agreable to the terms of Said Resolution.

                        Duportail mr general
                        Laumoy Colo.
                        Cambray Colo.
                        Villefranche Lt Col.
                        L’Enfant Majr
                        Lt Colo. Wuibert
                        J. Murnan Majr
                        J. Gouvion Col. of Engrs
                        Rochefontaine Major of Engrs


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Jones, 6 May 1783
From: Jones, Joseph
To: Washington, George

                     Dr Sr
                     Philada 6th May 1783

                  We have at length got through the plan of funds to be recommended to the States for their adoption—It has been the most difficult & perplexing discussion of any that has engaged the attention of this body for some time—The various objects to be combined, and the different interests to be reconciled, to make the System palatable to the States was a wish not easily or speedily to be effected, and altho’ it was the wish of many to settle the plan upon clear and unquestioned principles of finance, yet such were the prejudices of some States, and of some individuals, and such their jealousies, we were obliged to take a middle course with respect to its duration, and the appointment of Collecters, or hazard ultimately the loss of the measure—As it stands I believe it will answer the purposes intended, if the States will grant their concurrence—a Copy will be transmitted to you for yours and the Armys information.
                  As the state of our finances at present is such as to make it difficult for the present officer now at the head of that departmt, much more so for any new hand who might succeed him, to form the necessary arrangemts for obtaining money sufficient for disbanding the Army, Mr Morris has agreed to act untill that business is accomplished and will I hope be able to effect it to the satisfaction of the Army—but from appearances the period of  disbanding will be more distant that in any at first apprehended, if that measure, as it seems to be proper it shod, goes hand in hand with the evacuation of our Country by the British forces.  By this time you are better able to judge of the views and designs of Sr G. Carleton or of those who direct his movement as I presume the intended interview took place—tho’ I confess I thought there was indelicacy in the manner if that Gentlemens mentioning his proposed attendants.  In every thing else, but that of evacuation (and they may be doing all they can in that for any thing I know) they seem to act with fairness and liberality and I shod be sorry to find them in that, or any other instance, practicing the old game of deception—we have reports something of this sort appears in their conduct respecting the Negros in their possession claimed by our Citizens—these relations come from men of character and untill the contrary is ascertained of what to assert, credit will be given their reports.  No proclamations can authorize a refusal of property to those who claim under the article of the Treaty, and establish their right by satisfactory proof.  Col. F. Thornton of Machadach ab. two years ago lost many of his Negros who went on board some of the British ships of war up Potomack.  he wrote to me the other day ab. them—these I believe are not sanctioned by proclamation and yet I suspect if the old Gentleman was to send a person to claim them, his labour wod be lost.  If what we are told respecting the conduct of those in power in N. York concerning the claimed property of the American Citizens be true, it will prove an effectual bar to the restoration of confiscated Estates had there been a disposition in the States before to render them.  I wish to have seen the treaty faithfully executed in both sides, but when acts and prevarication take place on one side, they are apt to prevail in the other.  I proceed immediately to Virga in order to attend the assembly now convening, and will thank you for any information respecting these matters you can properly communicate—that the truth may be known, and misrepresentations if any prevail, removed.  If any thing occurs to you which you do not choose to communicate directly to the Executive with respect to the arrangements necessary to be made on a peace, and shall confide them to me, proper attention shall be paid to your observations.  with perfect esteem & respect I am Dr Sr Yr aff. hum: servt

                     Jos: Jones.


Title: From George Washington to Lund Washington, 6 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Lund

                     Dear Lund
                     Tappan May 6th 1783

                  By the last Post I informed you of my intended meeting with Sir Guy Carleton for settling, among other things, a plan for restoring the Negros and other property belonging to the Citizens of the United States.  This meeting I have held; & tho it has been interrupted by the indisposition of Sir Guy, which has, this morning, carried him back to New York; yet, I have collected enough to convince me, that the owners of Slaves have very little chance to recover them.  Sir Guy puts a very different construction upon the 7th article to what we do, & such an one, as I have before observed, as leaves little prospect of recovering the Negros, if they do the value of them, however, as the business which occasioned the meeting is not definitive; & I am to receive a written answer to my propositions made to him, I will suspend a final opinion till I receive it.  In the meanwhile, it is certain that great numbers of Slaves have been carried off to Nova Scotia.
                  You have sent me a letter from Mr Geo: Muse demanding payment of Forty pound specie for his Expences to Pittsburgh; to which he says I am bound in a Bond of £1000—But you have not taken the least notice of this matter in your letter; not even to say whether you had paid it—rejected it—postponed it—or what.  If he really has such a Bond of mine, which had entirely escaped me; if he shewed this Bond to you, & called upon you for the fulfilment of it; and if it shall appear by my Book of accounts that he never has been paid—no sum has been advanced to him (either in an Acct which may have been raised in his name, nor in the Cash acct) certainly then he ought to be paid as soon as possible; either the £40 of it shall be thought reasonable—or an Acct of the actual Expenditures which is certainly more regular—more consistent with justice—& what, from his own letter is most consistent with the spirit of my agreement; which I suppose the Bond, or the agreement entered into, is expressive of.
                  His Letter, brings some recollection of the matter to my mind with this circumstance, that He was drinking weeks together in a place—particularly at Charles Smiths—I am very willing however, to comply litterally with my agreement—& wish you to settle the matter upon terms of liberallity rather than otherwise with him, as he has lain out of his money so long.
                  Muse’s Letter I send back to you; which should be a ground for you to act on—& to keep; I am in a hurry.  Yr Affecte friend & Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 7 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Wednesday May 7th 1783
                     Parole Newport
                     Countersigns Salem Kingston

                  For the day tomorrow B. General Greaton
                  B. Qr Mr Hampshire Brigde
                  The Jersey Battalion gives the Guards & the 5th Massa. regt the fatigues tomorrow.
                  Untill further orders the corps which gives the fatigues for the day will furnish a Corporal & three orderly men for the Adjt Genl office—to parade at the Newbuilding at half after eleven o’clock.


Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 7 May 1783
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Philadelphia May 7th 1783.

                  I have duly recd your Excellency’s several public dispatches of the 9th 18th & 30th of Aprill and 3d May, all which have from time to time been laid before Congress.
                  We are without any farther advices from Europe than what your Excellency has already recieved, except that Compte De Vergennes in a Letter to the Minister of France of the 29th Feby, mentions that there are no difficulties in the Way of the definitive Treaty—that they were waiting for Answers from the Courts of Petersburgh & Vienna, as the Emperor & Empress had been invited to attend the signing of that Treaty in the Character of Mediators, I suppose as a Complement.
                  I shall be careful to transmit the first Intelligence we recieve from Europe, without delay.  I have the Honor to be with every Sentiment of regard & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & very Hble Servt

                     Elias Boudinot


Title: From George Washington to Amelia Leigh Lloyd, 7 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lloyd, Amelia Leigh

                     Madam;
                     Tappan 7th May 1783

                  I am at this place on a conference with Sir Guy Carleton—previous to my coming here I was honored with your favor of the 18th of last month.
                  Mr White being among those characters which stand proscribed by the Laws of this State, can only be relieved by Legislative authority; and this is one of the points, which Congress by the Treaty is to recommend to the several States.
                  Mrs White, & her children (who I am informed, propose to remain in New York) cannot, I persuade myself, be in danger of personal insult: your apprehensions therefore, on this score, may be calmed—In speaking this language, I not only give my own opinion, but the sentiments of some of the most respectable characters, of this State (N. York).  With compliments to Mr Lloyd I have the honor to be with great respect, Madam, Yr most obt & very hble Servt

                     G: W——n


Title: General Orders, 8 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Newburgh Thursday May 8th 1783
                     Parole Albany
                     Countersigns Newark Monmouth

                  For the day tomorrow Brigadier Genl Putnam
                  B. Qr Mr 1 Mass. B.
                  The 2d York regt gives the guards and the Jersey regt the fatigues tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to Elias Boudinot, 8 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Boudinot, Elias

                     Sir
                     Orange Town 8th May 1783

                  The copy of my Letter of the 21st of April to His Excellency Sir Guy Carleton, with a Copy of his reply to me, which I had the Honor to transmit to your Excellency, will have informed Congress, that the 5th of this Month was agreed upon between us for an Interview at this place.
                  In Consequence of this Arrangement I arrived here on the 4th.  The Contingents of a Water passage in a frigate, prevented Sir Guy Carletons arrival until the Evening of the 5th.  On the 6th our Interview took place at my Quarters, about three Miles from the River.
                  Our Conversation upon the different subjects to which my Instructions pointed me, was diffuse and desultory; and closed with a proposition on my part, and acceded to on the part of General Carleton, that the points of discussion should be reduced to writing.
                  I have the Honor to inclose a Copy of the Letter which I wrote to Sir Guy Carleton, the Evening of our Conference; and to which I expected to receive his Answer, being to dine with him the next day on Board the Frigate.
                  Coming on Board the Ship, I found Sir Guy under a very severe Fit of the fever and Ague (a previous fit of which he had experienced the Day of his Arrival).  In these Circumstances, and wanting, as he said, to have recourse to some papers in New York, previous to makg an Answer to my Letter; And at the same Time urged by the Exigency of other Business, he had determined to return immediately to N. York; apologizing to me, and promising that I should hear from him soon, on the Subjects of my proposition.  Thus I find myself without an Answer to my Letter, or such an Issue to our Interview as I had wished.  And the Ship is this Morning gone down the River.
                  In this situation, willing to give Congress every Information in my power, I have desired the Gentlemen who were present at the Conversation which passed in our first Interview, to recollect & put in writing the Substance of it.  This they have been so obliging as to do, and a Copy of it is enclosed.
                  As soon as I am possessed of a Reply from General Carleton, to my Letter of the 6th I will do myself the Honor to transmit a Copy to your Excellency, without delay.
                  It is my Duty also to inform Congress that, in consequence of their Resolutions of the 15th of April, & a reference to me of the Letter of Sir Guy Carleton of the 14th of April, to the Secretary of Foreign Affairs; and not thinking it proper to suffer any further Delay; I have appointed Daniel Parker Esqr. Egbert Benson Esqr. and Lieut. Colo. Wm S. Smith, as Commissioners on the Part of the United States, to attend & inspect the Embarkations that in future may be made at N. York, previous to the final Evacuation of that City.  The powers with which these Gentlemen are vested, will appear from a Copy of their Appointment & Instructions, which is inclosed, and which I hope will meet the Approbation of Congress.  I have the Honor to be With great Respect & Esteem for Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and Most humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Richard Humpton, 8 May 1783
From: Humpton, Richard
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia 8th May 1783

                  The sense of the Officers of the Pennsylvania Line that are now in this State has been taken upon the proposed commutation of the half Pay and they are unanimously of opinion to accept it—but as it appears to them doubtfull, at least whether the respective States will come into the Views of Congress and provide Funds for the regular payment of the Interest—They wish their acceptance to be understood in this quallify’d sense, that they did not mean thereby to relinquish the claim they have upon the State of Pennsylvania for the payment of half pay in consequence of a Law pass’d to entitle them thereto, untill such funds shall be provided—I am not clear whether this information was expected from me or that it should come thro’ Genl Green—as we have sometimes been consider’d as part of the Southern Army, in either case I judged it not improper that your Excellency Should be acquainted.  I am Sir with the highest regard Your Excellencys most obed.

                     Richd Humpton Col. 2d Pa Regt


Title: To George Washington from William Irvine, 8 May 1783
From: Irvine, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Carlisle May 8th 1783

                  Your Excellencys favor of the 16th of April did not not come to hand til this day, agreeable to your desire I will proceed to Fort Pitt immediately.
                  I entreat your Excellency will be pleased to give particular instructions respecting any measures you may deem proper for that garrison, as I have reason to fear it will otherwise come in late for a share of public notice: Letters of a late date inform me that the savages have not done any damage in that quarter since the 1st of April.  I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most obedient Servant

                     Wm: Irvine


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Parker, 8 May 1783
From: Parker, Daniel
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Orange Town May 8th 1783

                  Knowing it to be the Wish of your Excellency that the Army should receive some Part of the Pay due them from the United States previous to their being discharged from Service, and supposing the present State of the public Funds would render a Payment to any Considerable Amounts very difficult, if not Impracticable at this Period; We would propose to make Payment of a Sum equal to the Amount of Five month’s full pay to Each Officer and Soldier, that compose the Army immediately under your Excellency’s Command in the following mode, to Wit.
                  One month’s Pay in ready Cash (or more if the Financier shall advance it) shall be made to the Troops, And the Ballance that may be due to Compleat the full Payment for three months, in such merchandize as may be necessary and agreable, and at such Prices, as shall be satisfactory to the Army.
                  By this mode of Payment we Conceive that the Intentions of Congress will be effected, as the Soldiers will receive the Cash necessary for their Expences homewards, and those Articles of Merchandize, which necessity would oblige them to purchase, had they the means to do it.
                  It may probably happen that some Officers might be so situated as to make it most Convenient to receive some proportion of the two months Pay in Mr Morris Notes, rather than the whole in Merchandize in which Case it will be our Disposition to Accomodate them.
                  We have taken Measures to Collect the Sense of the army on the Mode of making them a three Months Payment and find it is agreable, that since our Intentions have transpired we are Continually sollicited to Commence the Operation; But the Risque and Magnitude of the Object and the Uncertainty whether the present SuperIntendant of Finance (who has been the Basis of our Confidence in the public Credit) would Continue in Office, has Induced us to defer the Undertaking, till we should know your Excellency’s Opinion, and that our D: Parker should have an Opportunity of Conferring with the Financier on the Subject.  We have the honor to be with the most perfect Respect and Attachment. Your Excellency’s most Obedt Hble Servt

                     Danl Parker & Co.


Title: General Orders, 9 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Friday May 9th 1783
                     Parole Princetown.
                     Countersigns Goshen. Sussex

                  For the day tomorrow Brigr Genl Patterson
                  B. Qr Mr 3d Massa. Brigd.
                  The Hampshire regt gives the Guards and the 1st York regt the fatigues tomorrow.
                  Major Genl Heath’s orders
                  A Sub. 2 serjeants 2 corporals & 30 men from each Brigade in this Cantonment, except the Hampshire are to parade tomorrow morning 8 o’clock at the Causeway as a fatigue, to repair the damages done by the late Rains to the communications between the wings of the Army.
                  The Brigade Qr Mr of the day will superintend the work and report to the officer of the day.
                  Colonel J. Vose is appointed President—Majors Scott and Darby with one Captain from the Jersey two from the york—two from each of the Massachusetts and one from the Hampshire brigades members of a Genl courtmartial, to assemble at the Newbuilding tomorrow morning ten o’clock for the trial of such persons as shall be brought before them.


Title: To George Washington from Charles, marquis de La Rouërie Armand Tuffin, 9 May 1783
From: Armand Tuffin, Charles, marquis de La Rouërie
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     philadelphia may 9th 1783

                  I have the honor to inform your Excellency that the officers of the legion under my Command have accepted of the Commutation of the half pay for life into five years full pay—I take the liberty to inclose here a copy of their determination on the Subject—I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Sir Your Excellency’s the most obdt hb. srt

                     Armand M. de la Rouerie


Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 9 May 1783
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Washington, George

                     private
                     Dear Sir
                     Philadelphia May 9th 1783

                  I have the honor of enclosing to your Excellency a Copy of the recommendatory System of finance lately adopted by Congress, together with their address to the several States, which may serve for your Information and amusement.
                  Mrs Boudinot & Miss Susan join me in presenting the most affectionate Complements to Mrs Washington.  I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obed. & Hble Servt

                     Elias Boudinot


Title: To George Washington from Marinus Willett, 9 May 1783
From: Willett, Marinus
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Albany 9th May 1783

                  Yesterday morning I left Fort Rensselear—Last Saturday returned to that place the Flagg that was sent to Oswego—The officer who went with the flagg reports, That on his way to Oswego going down the Onondaga river he met two Cannoes loaded with Indians under the charge of one James Hare, Who is a Commissioned officer under the British Goverment in the Indian Department—That he prevailed on the party to return to Oswego, And that by the flagg’s arrival at the time it did a stop was put to Forty Indians who had received orders to visit our frontiers.
                  The officer who went with the flag likewise reports that while he was at Oswego an officer arrived there from Niagary with Information that an Indian Scout had lately returned to that place from an Incurtion on the frontiers of Pennsylvania with one scalp and two prisoners, And that Major Ross who Commands at Oswego said he had latly received Directions from Genl Haldiman to prepair for a prossecution of the war So that the account of peace was very unexpected.  The Account of peace however appeared quit agreeable to Majr Ross, But, the NWest & Western boundary line was reprobated.  A Curious Doubt arose whether Bucks, otherways called Carlton Island would fall to the share of the United States, as this Island is a very Important part as well as a Valuable Island in Lake Ontario,  And is very clearly within our teritory,  I have thought it not amiss to mention this Circumstance to your Excellency that if any suggestion to this purpose should be raised from a higher question a timely Check may be entered against it.
                  A Lad latly taken prisoner from the German flats was suffered to return from oswego with our flagg.
                  Your Excellencies letters of the 23d & 25th Ultimo are come safe to hand.  I have the honor to be with the highest esteem & respect Your Excellencies most obedient humble servt

                     Marinus Willett


Title: General Orders, 10 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                      Saturday May 10th 1783.
                     Parole Portsmouth.
                     Countersigns  Exeter—Hampton

                  For the day tomorrow Brigr Genl Stark
                  Br Qr Master 2d Massa. Brigd.
                  The 7th Massa. regt gives the Guards & the 1st the fatigues tomorrow.
                  The officers composing the Court of which Colonel H. Jackson is president and those of the board whereof Brigadier Genl Greaton is President are to do duty in the Line untill further orders.


Title: To George Washington from Ezra Badlam, 10 May 1783
From: Badlam, Ezra
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Dorchester 10th May 1783.

                  The severity of your Excellencys letter last summer, Sickness, and other innumerable difficulties attended with trobles almost emsurmountable has provented me from attempting to prove to your Excellency the rectitude of my heart in the late charge exhibited against me; but knowing your Excellencys candour, humanity, and gratitude, I presume to inform your Excellency that it is now in my power to prove by sufficient evidence, that by impossition and most fallacious lyis of the recruits as well as the persons who presented them I (as muster master) was decived in every instence; This I can declare in presents of God with my hand on my heart that I acted with the strictest fidelity, and since this is the case I can with more boldness ask your Excellencys attention to my circumstances which are very humiliating, and feelt very Sensibly by me as well as my family.  I took an active part in favour of my Country in 75 and indured the fatigues of a Soldier better then Seven years, and just at the Close of the War after sacrifiseing a very good constitution in the field and not able to engage in any business for the Support of a wife and Seven Children (one of which I’ve calld George Washington) I am discharged from the Service.  All this I cannot reconcile to my feelings, & insteed of being placed on an emenence, with my Brothering I am fixed in a valley surrounded with unsurmountable precipicises and for my further mortification have all the world to look down upon me with contempt.
                  I must beseech your Excellency to have Some consideration for past Services, the loss of my health, the Ruin of my interest, the submission with which I have born the punishment, the zeal I have Shewen and am Ready to Shew in Support of your Excellencys charecter, I hope will disarm your Excellency of your indignation against me and excite your Excellency to have pity on the unfortunate and Restore me or at least to put me in a way to obtain some considerations for past Servises,  Should such a favour be obtained I shall think myself obliged to add gratitude sutible to so important a favour.
                  No one knowes better then your Excellency, that it is as great to forgive as to punish.  If I alone am doomed to have no benifit from that goodness which extends to so many, my lot must be perticularly hard; as I am now confined to my Room by Reason of the fatigues of the field, especially as there is no probability of my ever being able to engage again in business for the Support of my family.  I will not anticipate futer Trobles, but depend on your Excellencys clemency.  I am Sir with every sentement of Esteem and due Respect Your Excellencys most obedt very humble Servant

                     Ezra Badlam


Title: From George Washington to Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle Duportail, 10 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 10th May 1783

                  I have been favored with your Letter of the 29th of April—By your Letter of the 16th I certainly understood the Officers of your Department to be included with yourself.
                  You have anticipated my Wishes, in having, as you mention, communicated your Sentiments on a peace Establishment, so far as relates to your Department, to a Committee of Congress—As you promise to send me a Copy of it, I shall be gratified by a Sight of your Ideas on the Subject.
                  As you mention it to be very inconvenient for you to come to Camp—I do not at present recollect any thing of Importance enough to render your attendance here necessary—I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Franklin, 10 May 1783
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Passy 10. May 1783

                  Permit me to introduce to you the Bearer Mr Hogendorff, of an illustrious Family, and Lieutenant in the Dutch Guards.  He is strongly recommended to me by Persons of Distinction, as a Gentleman of excellent Character: His principal Design in going to America is to make himself acquainted with the Country, and its Inhabitants: I beg you will favour him with your best Advice & Counsels which as a Stranger he may stand in need of, and which you have a Pleasure in affording to Persons of Merit.  With great Regard, I have the Honour to be, Sir, Your Excellency’s, most obedient and most humble Servant.

                     B. Franklin


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 10 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                     My dear Marquis
                     Head Qrs Newburgh 10th May 1783.

                  My letter of the 5th of last Month by your Servant, acknowledged the receipt of your favor of the 5th of Feby from Cadiz—I have now to thank you for your letter of the 2d of March from Bordeaux which came to my hands a few days ago.  If I can get my Letter to Philada in time, it will be conveyed to you by the Duke de Lauzen, who (with his Legion) is on the point of Embarkation; and will carry with him my best wishes, & warmest friendship.
                  We are much indebted to you for your exertions at the Court of Spain—your Conduct there, affords us a fresh instance of your Zeal in the Cause of America; & of your abilities to serve it; & will, if possible, endear you to us more—I
                  Congress have taken no steps, I believe, towards the appointment of a Minister for the Court of London; or if they have it is not in my power to give you any information on this subject.  They (one may presume, because it is the case with all others) are waiting with great & anxious impatience for the definitive treaty of Peace, that a Civil & Military Establishment may succeed.  At present we can form no conjecture of the time when the British Troops will evacuate New York—I have lately had a meeting with Sir Guy Carleton (at Dobbs’s Ferry) on this business, but could extract nothing more than that it was his wish to withdraw the Troops as soon as possible—That he was using his best endeavors for this purpose—and that the British Government could have no inducement to continue them there a moment longer than they could avoid it.
                  Our Men, whose terms of Service were to expire with the War, not being able to distinguish between the Ratification of the Preliminary Articles, & a definitive Treaty of Peace; and being very desirous of their discharges; have, with difficulty, been kept under due Subordination but have not in any instance proceeded to such acts of outrage as I find the Scotch Corps in England have done.
                  The Indians on the Frontiers of Virginia & Pensylvania have lately committed acts of hostility—murdering and Scalping many of the innocent Settlers, who were returning to their former habitations in hopes of possessing them in Peace.  It is much to be doubted whether these wretches will ever suffer our Frontiers to enjoy tranquility till they are either exterminated, or removed to a much greater distance from us than they now are.
                  We are told that a general change has taken place in the British Ministry upon the principle of a Coalition of Parties; of what this is portentous I know not—time must discover.  I never can too often repeat to you the warmth of my friendship, and my wishes to see you in this Country—Nor can I give you too many assurances of my affection. Mrs Washington offers respectful Compliments to Madame La. Fayette, in which mine are very cordially joined. Tilghman, by this time, is I presume, one of those domestic things called a Husband—the rest of my family are in Statu quo wishing you to receive the homage of their respectful attachments.  With the greatest sincerity & truth I am—My Dear Marquis Yr

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Armand-Louis de Gontaut Biron, duc de Lauzun, 10 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Lauzun, Armand-Louis de Gontaut Biron, duc de

                     sir
                     Head Quarters. 10th May 1783

                  I had not the Honor to receive your favor of the 1st instant, until the 7th—Being at that Time at Orange Town on a Conference with Sir Guy Carleton, it had a circuitous Route to make before it reached me—This Circumstance you will be so good as to admit as an Apology for my not giving you an earlier Reply.
                  I have now the Honor to mention to you, as I did some Time ago to the Minister of France, that, viewing the Peace so near a final Conclusion, I could not hold my self justified in a desire to detain the Troops under your Command, from the Expectations of their Sovereign; or to prevent their own Wishes of a Return to their Native Country & Friends.
                  Nor can I omit, on this Occasion, to express to you Sir! & to all the brave Officers & Soldiers of your Corps, the high Esteem I have for them; and the Regard I shall ever entertain of their Services in the Cause of the United States, to whose Independence & Establishment as a Nation, they have contributed a noble share.
                  Your particular Services Sir! with the politeness Zeal & Attention which I have ever experienced from you, have made deep & lasting Impressions on my Mind—& will serve to endear you in my Remembrance—It would have been a great satisfaction to me to have had further Opportunity to have given you, in person, these Assurances of my Regard, could your Orders have admitted your longer Continuence in the Country—But My Regret at parting with you will be somewhat softened by the flattering Hope you are pleased to give me, that I may have the Satisfaction of embracing you again in America—where, you may be assured, I shall ever most sincerely rejoice in an Opportunity of having it in my power to convince you of the very particular Esteem & Attachment, with which I have the Honor to be sir Your most Obedient &c.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 10 May 1783
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,
                     War-Office May 10 1783

                  I have been honored with the receipt of your letter enclosing certificates from the several Lines of their acceptance of the commutation of half pay proposed by Congress in their act of the 22nd of march last.  I am, with perfect respect and Esteem Your Excellency’s obedient, humble servant

                     B. Lincoln


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 10 May 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                     Head Qrs Newburgh 10th May 1783

                  It must, my dear Count, have been a pleasing event to you, to have landed on your native shore, crowned with Laurels after a perilous passage and the hazard of being taken—and to have received as I am perswaded you must have done the Smiles of a wise & generous Prince.  On these happy events I sincerely congratulate you.
                  To the generous aids of your Nation, & the bravery of its Sons, is to be ascribed in a very great degree that Independence for which we have fought, and after a severe conflict of more than Seven years, have obtained.  The first wish of my heart is to pay the tribute of respect to a Country to which, from Public and private considerations, I feel myself bound by the most Affectionate Ties.  but whether circumstances will place it in my power to gratify these wishes is beyond my present ken—To meet you in France would be one of my greatest Inducements to go thither.
                  Since the ratification of the Preliminary Articles, every thing in this Country has assumed an appearance of tranquillity—The British Forces however, still continue in New York; nor am I able at this moment, to fix any epoch for their departure—General Carleton with whom I have had a conference on this business (at Dobbs’s Ferry) says, that every exertion is making on his part for this purpose, and that he has already sent off for Hallefax & other parts of Nova Scotia, at least 6000 Refugees or Loyalists—and that it is his wish to withdraw his Troops from the United States as soon as possible, as the expence of keeping them there is considerable.  In the mean time we are looking anxiously for the definitive Treaty wch alone can give perfect satisfaction, by removing doubts, difficulties & delays.  My best wishes will ever attend you—with great consideration & respect I am Sir Yr Most Obedt and Most Hble Servt

                     Go: Washington