Title: To George Washington from James Cassaty, 11 September 1783
From: Cassaty, James
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Tryonss County 11th Septr 1783

                  Under protection of your Excellencys passport I Left this place on the first Day of Last August With Intent to go to Niagara—in five Days I arived at oswego and prodused my passport to Capt. Gumersill Commanding the Garrison who would not permit me to proceed but In Contempt and Disregard to your Excellencys Written passport to me Detained me til; the Sacond Day of Septr following at Whitch Time I Came off and Broug with me a Segt Major and a Solder with whom I picked up an Acquaintance during my Stay at oswego.
                  I inclose your Excellency the Sergt Majors Examination from whitch you will Larn what usage I met with while under Capt. Gumersill Command.  I Have the Honour to be Your Excellancys Most Obedant and Ever Humble Servant

                     James Cassaty

               P.S. Your Excellencys Letter Whitch I Took with me for Gen. Staubon—was taken from me by the Commanding officer at oswego. Enclosure

                         10 September 1783

                        Tryonss—The Examination of late Sergeant Major of the second Battalion of Troopes in the British service commanded by Sir John Johnson. Affvt taken on Oath this tenth Day of September 1783.
                     This Examinant says that Capt. Thomas Gumersall of the said second Battalion commanded the Garrison of Oswego consisting of about Fifty five Men for about Eight or nine Weeks past.
                     That on the Arrival at Oswego of Mr James Cassity in August last this Examinant was ordered by Capt. Gumersall to forbid Mr Cassety to purchase any kind of provisions from the Indians or to speak to any of them.
                     That same Day, afterwards this Commanding Officer told this Examinant that there was a Boat coming (which Boat this Examinant understood to be an American Boat) and that damned old Rober Cassety was gone out of the Fort he the Commanding Officer supposed to speak to the Boat and ordered him the Examinant to forbid Mr Cassaty to speak to any Person whatever and swore that on the first pretence he would confine him.
                     That on applying to Capt. Gumersall for an Order for provisions for Mr Cassety, the Captain damned Cassety and said he wished the Devil had him as that he would eat no more of the Kings Provision—that on this Examinants informing the Commanding Officer that he had been told by Mr Cassety that he intended to return it if he could not obtain leave to go forward soon this Captain said that he (Mr Cassety) should neither go back nor forward untill he pleased.

                        Ebezer Larabe Sergt Major

                        Sworn before me this 10th Sept. 1783.

                        Andrew Finch  Justice


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 11 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                     My dear Sir,
                     Rocky Hill 11th Septr 1783.

                  It was with great concern I heard of your Indisposition—later accts say you were upon the recovery—and nothing would give me more pleasure than the confirmation of it from under your own hand.
                  I am not able to give you any information on the point you requested, at our parting.  Congress have come to no determination yet respecting the Peace Establishment, nor am I able to say when they will.  I have lately had a conference with a Committee on this subject; & have reiterated my former opinions; but it appears to me that there is not a sufficient representation to discuss Great National points; nor do I believe there will be, while that Honble Body continue their Sessions at this place.  The want of accomodation, added to a disinclination in the Southern Delegates to be further removed (than they formerly were) from the Centre of the Empire—and an aversion in the others to give up, what they conceive to be a point gained by the late retreat to this place; keeps matters in an awkward situation; to the very great interruption of National concerns.  Seven States it seems (by the Articles of Confederation) must agree before any place can be fixed on for the seat of the Federal Government—and Seven States it is said, will never agree.  consequently, as Congress came here—here they are to remain, to the dissatisfaction of the Majority, & the great  to business; having none of the Public Offices About them, nor no places to accommodate them if they were brought up; And the Members from this, or some other Causes, are eternally absent.
                  Mrs Washington has had a severe return of the Cholic since she came to this place, but is now as well as usual—She joins me very cordially in best wishes for your perfect recovery, and in Affectionate Compliments to Mrs Clinton.  With the sincerest esteem & regard I am My Dear Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Tallmadge, 11 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

                     Dear Sir,
                     Rocky Hill 11th Septr 1783

                  Your letter of the 16th of August with the Accts enclosed, did not reach my hands till within these few days.
                  I have no doubt, because I suppose S:C: to be an honest Man, that the Monies charged in his Acct have been expended, & therefore should be paid; but the Services which were rendered by him (however well meant) was by no means adequate to these Expenditures—My Complaints on this head, before I knew the amount of his charges, you may remember were frequent; and but for the request of Count de Rochambeau, who told me that he had put money into your hands, & would continue to furnish you with more for the purpose of obtaining intelligence through this Channel I should have discontinued the Services of S.C. long before a cessation of hostilities took place, because his communications were never frequent, and always tedious in getting to hand.
                  At present, as your Acct has no credits to it, it is impossible for me to strike the Balle.  I know what Sums you have had from me, but if there are any credits due to it for monies furnished by the French General, it ought to be known, provided the Intelligence which was communicated to him came from Culper Senr as the Acct of this person (which is exhibited as an Article of charge against me) comprehends the whole of his Services and the Expences attending them; and that this was the case, I am to presume, as the Intelligence received by the Count (Copy of which he always forwarded to me) was precisely the same as that which was transmitted to me at the same periods.
                  As soon as you shall have furnished me with these documents and will let me know the Sum you received from Colo. Henley in the Year 1778 (the Accts of whom being among Papers which are not easily got at) I will settle the acct; and use my best endeavors to obtain money to discharge the Balle, wch indeed will be no very easy matter, as it is with the utmost difficulty any can be had for the most indispensably necessary purposes— so little do the States now care for past Services & the means for rewardg them.
                  I cannot conclude without offering you my sincere & Affectionate thanks for your good wishes, & the favourable sentiments you have been pleased to express of me; the ready obedience, & polite attention which I have ever experienced from the officers of the Army, over whom I have had the honor to preside, fills me with the most pleasing sensations; the reflection of which will contribute not a little to my future happiness; to none, am I more indebted for these than to yourself and with great truth I can assure you that at all times and in whatever place I may be, I shall have pleasure in seeing you, and making thes acknowledgements, being with much truth Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Decabanes, 12 September 1783
From: Decabanes
To: Washington, George

                     Monsieur
                     Metz le 12 7bre 1783

                  La veneration que j’ay conçue pour Votre excellence par vos hauts faits comme citoyen, et general dont toute l’europe retentit, me fait prendre la liberte de vous propose une Republique que j’avais composé lors de votre revolution, la quelle Si j’avois eu le bonheur de pouvoir le faire alors, auroit evité bien du Sang votre nation n’auroit pas tardé a etre independante, elle Se Serait deja  de beaucoup, et par ma constitution, qui n’aurait pas manqué d’etre gouté d’abord elle vous assuré un gouvernement immuable, et vous Series deja une puissance respectable et qui plus cherie de toute la terre.
                  Vous pourries dire que c’est bien tard que je vous adresse mes reflexions, mais je ne crois pas que Se Sont en vain, vue qu’il paroit regner dans vos province desunité qui ne peut que vous causer les plus grands torts, ce que je predirois n’est guerre possible que treize etats different en force, richesse, et esprit differens ne cause un jour une mesintelligence, qui vous Sera plus funeste un jour que le joug que V. E. vient de Secouer.
                  je vous diray Monsieur pour ma justification, que j’ay fait mon possible au commencement de la guerre de pouvoir passer ches vous, d’abord avec l’agrement de ma cour, ensuite je me Suis adressé a Monsieur Dean a qui je ne demandais non comme avanturier, un grade et le titre de citoyen, quand je me Serais transporté a mes frais en Amerique, mais ce fut en vain que j’auray desiré me Sacrifier pour vous, ayant Servi en espagne ou j’ay eu le rang de lieutenant colonel et connaissant Monsieur le Conde d’Aranda ambassadeur en france, je l’avais prié de me faire employer a la Suite du Ministre que la france vous envoyoit, esperant de cette maniere vous  des idées, plans qui avaient pu vous etre favorable, mon etoile peut etre celle de votre patrie -t-elle sur la mienne, de n’avoir pu reussir d’aucune maniere.
                  Je vous diray plus que le desire que j’avois de pouvoir etre employé et Sortir de la Solitude ou je me suis jetté inconsiderement ayant quitté l’espagne a 30 ans en 70, mon esprit travaillois pour trouver quelque moyens de me rendre utile, dans cette perplexité j’ai decouvert un moyen de vous rapatrir avec l’angleterre, mais comme Sujet de la maison de Bourbon avait un grand interet a ce que cela n’arrive pas, mon integrité ne m’a pas permis d’aller declarer mon secret a l’angleterre, un homme ambitieux desordonné n’eut pas eu cette consideration, pouvant esperer par la une fortune, et qui plus une renomme qui l’eut celebré a jamais, cela me tentoit cependant fortement et si je eus fait quoique vous Series tombé de nouveau sous le despotisme vous Series peut etre plus heureux, que vous ne le seres tant que vous n’aures pas adopte une constitution moins embarassante.
                  Monsieur ce n’est pas ce dernier plan que j’ay l’honneur de vous proposer quoique je n’en ai pas retiré aucune avantage que j’en esperois, en ayant fait part a Messieurs de Vergennes et d’Arande, quoique le premier m’a repondu de le tenir Secret, et promis pas une seconde lettre de m’apuyer Si l’espagne daignoit me recompenser de ma discrettion; comme luy etant plus avantageuse.
                  C’est ma republique que je vous propose, etant persuadé que vous y trouverer bien des choses, qui trop bord et ne Serait peut etre plus tems de vouloir executer.
                  Monsieur pour peu qu’on voudroit adopter quelques uns de mes plans qui Sont avantageux a votre patrie, et quelle daigne me recevoir parmi vous je crois que je ferois l’effort de passer ches vous, esperant vous etre d’autant plus utile, pourque vous reconnaissies mes Services Sur mes enfants, malgré qu’un de mes freres qui a combattu Sous vous au Siege d’York-Town comme Capitain dans le Regiment des deux ponts, qui vous respecte infiniment et aime les americains, m’a dit qu’il ne croyait que ce climat me conviendroit et dans ce cas je ne desiray que de vivre autant de tems, que j’auray pu inculquer a mes enfants les Sentimens de reconnaissance, qui les rendrent digne un jour de la grace qu’ils auroient gagné a passer ches vous.  j’ay l’honneur d’etre avec le plus profond respect Monsieur Votre tres humble et tres obeïssant Serviteur

                        M decabanes


Title: From David Cobb to William Macpherson, 12 September 1783
From: Cobb, David
To: Macpherson, William

                     Sir
                     Rocky Hill 12th Sept. 1783

                  Your Letter of the 4th was received yesterday, but all the Generals Papers being packed for Transportation and at a distance from this place, it is totally out of my power to comply with your request—but I am directed by His Excellency to inform you, that so far as he can recollect of the Letter you have reference to, the Marquis spoke of you in the highest terms and recommended you as an Officer of the first merit.  I am &c.

                     D. Cobb


Title: From George Washington to Daniel Parker, 12 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Parker, Daniel

                     Sir
                     Rocky Hill 12th of Sep. 1783

                  If you have not already sent the two Pipes of wine to Virginia which you promised to do, and it is no disappointmt to you, to retain one of them, the other will be sufficient for my purpose, as I have just got an Acct of the arrival of two other Pipes of Madeira in Maryland, for my use.
                  If there are Wine & Beer Glasses (the latter of the same shape but larger) exactly like those which Mr Frauncis brought to Orange Town; of which he will have a perfect recollection, I should be glad, if an opportunity offers to Alexandria, to get six dozn or more of the first, and three dozn of the latter with as many water or finger glasses together with a dozn & half of Neat quart Decanters and as many Water Bottles for Table use, carefully packed (which I am sure Mr Fraunces will see to the doing of for me) and sent to that place.
                  The cost of these, together with the Pipe of Wine, and such other things as have been got on my private Acct by yourself or Colo. Smith, please to forward; and I will remit you the amount in Bank Bills by the first safe conveyance which shall present itself to me.
                  If there are none of the kind of Glasses here described (which pleased my fancy) remaining, I would buy more; as I may have an oppertunity of endulging my taste in another kind at Philadelphia (as I return home) upon as good terms as the New York Markets afford.
                  If a neat, & compleat sett of Bleu & White Table China could be had upon pretty easy terms, be pleased to inform me of it, and the Price—not less than six or eight dozn Shallow & a proportionable number of Deep & other Plates, Butter Boats, Dishes & Tureens, will suffice.  These things sometimes come in compleat setts ready packed— shou’d this be the case, altho’ there may be a greater number of Pieces than I have mentioned, I should have no objection to a case on that acct.
                  Be so good as to let me have your answer as soon as convenient, as it will prevent an application elsewhere, or may render one necessary—I wish also to know if you have received a line from Colo. Cob respecting Tea &ca.  I am Sir Yr Most Obt Hble Servt

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  Will you be so good as to inform me what goods—for family use—are very low in New York, and if they are to be had cheaper, than Goods of the same kind & quality at Philadelphia.

                     Go: W.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 14 September 1783
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Philadelphia 14th Septr 1783

                  I have been hon’d by your Excellency’s favour and am much obliged by the communication & indulgence that it conveys.  I hope very soon to pay my Respects to you at Rocky Hill, which honour I should have long since done my self had I not thought it improper to leave this place until the matters committed to my charge were intirely clos’d.  I have the honour to be with the greatest Respect Sir Your Excellency’s most obt hum. servt

                     Robt Howe


Title: From George Washington to Lewis Pintard, 14 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Pintard, Lewis

                     Sir,
                     Princeton 14th Sepr 1783

                  Long before this letter can have reached you, the Cost of the first Wine had from Mr Searle must, no doubt, have been paid to you—before the receipt of it, I saw Mr Parker who told me the Money had, for sometime, been lodged in the hands of a Gentleman (whose name I do not now recollect) in New York, and notice given of it to the Person at whose House you usually lodge in the City.
                  I have since received a Letter, Invoice, & Bill of Lading for two other Pipes of Wine from Mr Searle together with a Box of Citron, and two Baskets of Figs; but instead of their being sent to my House on Potomack River agreeably to my express request, and according to the Tenor of the Bills of Lading, I have received advice of their being Landed at Baltimore in Maryland; sixty odd Miles distant by Land, & more than 300 by water; how to Account for this I am at a loss, for it is not only contrary to my Order & expectation, but it is so contrary also to my wishes that I had infinitely rather they should be in Madeira; not on acct of the expence of transporting them from place to place, inland—nor on Acct of what is really pilferred. but because the quantity drawn is generally made good with some thing else, and the quality of the Wine, very often, totally ruined by it.
                  When I hear something further of these things, & have a satisfactory reason assigned for Landing them at Baltimore, instead of their being sent to Potomack as my order pointedly required, I shall be ready to pay the further Sum of £74-9.6 Sterlg to you, or your order; but I must confess, that in such an Article as Wine where age & its being of a good quality originally can alone render it valuable I can by no means reconcile it to myself to have it Landed in one State when it is ordered to another, thereby encountering almost the certainty of Adulteration by common Boatmen, or common Waggoners.  I am Sir Yr Most Obt Hble Ser.

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Gabriel Gebhard, 15 September 1783
From: Gebhard, John Gabriel
To: Washington, George

                     May it please your Excellency,
                     Claverack near Hudsons River 15th Septbr 1783

                  The Candour of your circular Letter has induced me, to address your Excellency with the few scattering Remarks, which I have made upon it, and hope out of your great good Nature, you will read them with Indulgence.
                  I have waited with great Anxiety for a political Answer upon your circular Letter, which should point out more particularly the Method, in which your Recommendation might be brought into Execution; But none has as yet (to my knowledge) made its Appearance in public Print; The Reason of it may be; the political Advice given in your Letter, however just, however necessary, however important, is still to every grateful American, like the last Advice given by a beloved, but almost expiring Father to his dear Children, and therefore by every Patriot drowned in Tears accompanied with a profound sorrowful Silence: This Silence of all, is my Apology for addressing your Excellency at present, however I shall give but a few Hints sufficient to revive this important, but almost forgotten Subject to our political Writers, who are endowed with more Abilities, and Strength in these Affairs than I.
                  Your Excellency was pleased, to state in your Letter four things, as the Essence, nay as the very Existence of the Thirteen United States: The Arguments with which your Excellency had urged them, are so weighty, so clear, so pressing, that they would be weakened, if enlarged perhaps with an unparallell’d Reasoning; the move, as your Excellency’s first stated Article, out of which the three last naturally flow, had been frequently agitated before, and by all Well wishers, of whatever Rank they were, deemed necessary; thus far I venture to say, almost every Individual of the thirteen States agrees with your Excellency.
                  But the Mind of all, who have got the common Welfare at Heart, are confounded by your Excellency’s taking leave of the Public, at a Period, when your Presence is most required.  If your Excellency’s Commendation could be immediately accomplished without Disturbance, and without your Aid, it would be ungratefulness in me and others (who reap already the Fruits of your Wisdom, and indefatigable Labour) to put your Excellency to a second Task, perhaps little inferior to the former; but we know two Parties hardly ever agree upon the one, and self same Subject of their Contention.  It is an inextricable Labyrinth, to view in the first place Congress, and the States as two Parties, and in the second place every State in particular as a party, contending fruitlessly with each-other upon that Subject: This we may fear to be the Case, if no Arbiter can be procured; an Arbiter acceptable to all the Parties; an Arbiter out of the midst of us; an Arbiter, in whom all Trust may be reposed; an Arbiter, who made himself Immortal in the Annals of Mankind for his Wisdom, for his Love to his Country; and Aversion to all sinister Views, in one Word; an Arbiter beloved by Friend and Foe.
                  I shall pass over the pointing out this Arbiter in Silence, as no American, viewing these Characteristics, will fail in finding out the Person, described by them.  Altho’ I can not forbear, to speak, with permission of your Excellency, the Sentiments of my Heart; I acknowledge, it could be a Hardship for you, to step out of the Field into the Cabinet; But I am convinced, your Excellency has in the late Contest with Great Britain more sensibly felt the Kind Providence of Almighty God, in rescuing your Body from all Dangers, in preserving your Health in the midst of all Fatigues, in turning the unforeseen Manoeuvres of the Enemy often to our Advantage &c. than I shall be able to express.
                  Can we not with Propriety draw a Conclusion from the past, to the future, and say with the Prophet, "Behold the Lords Hand is not shortened, that it cannot save."
                  What is the Reason, that in a Time, when Money—public Credit, and even the most necessary Articles of Life, Cloathing, and Bread itself failed, your Excellency’s base Word could be an Amendment for the whole to a grieved Army, just ready to revolt, and disperse? What is the Reason, that no Fault was ever found by any of the Americans in all your Manoeuvres, and Actions during the War, but was looked upon as Miracles?  What is the Reason, that every Inhabitant of the thirteen united States always had, and possesses to this Day a deep Regard and Veneration for your Excellency’s Person?  Who must not acknowledge, if he brings all these Things back to his Memory?  Who must not say?  It is the Lord in his allwise Direction?  The Lord whose Custom it was thro’ all Ages to raise as also to fit out Men for the Accomplishment of that Work, which he had prepared for them.  Your Excellency is undoubtedly one of them, appointed by the Lord in this present Age, to procure Freedom for the thirteen States united; But since this Union, without which, that real Freedom can subsist only for a short time unmolested, hath stood hitherto, and stands as yet upon a very loose footing, it appears, that Providence hath saved for your Excellency the Coronation of the whole Work, in placing that procured Freedom upon a good and solid Foundation: Nay it might be strongly reasoned upon that Appearance with the most probable Arguments, taken from the allwise Providence of God if viewed (as it is said in schools) a parte post, and compared with his gracious Designs a parte ante: For it is again the Custom of the Lord, to compleat the Work, which he had once begun: But fearing lest thro’ my Prolixity I should become tedious to your Excellency I shall conclude with the following Axiom.
                  That no Man, nor Body of Men is, or can be at present in North America possessed of that Influence upon every Individual, breathing in the thirteen united States, which your Excellency hath acquired as the first Attribute necessary for the Accomplishment of that Commendation given in your Excellency’s Circular Letter: That even the very wisest Resolves, and Recommendations of Congress met hitherto with Contradiction in one State or the other, that this Spirit of Contradiction was more or less nourished in almost every State, until the very Period, in which your Excellency should be at Leisure, to establish a permanent Union between the States.  I am with all imaginable Respects with the greatest Esteem Your Excellency’s most obedient humble
                  J:G: Gebhard

                     I have communicated your Excellency this humble Address before it was delivered to the Press for the following Reasons: First, because I am convinced, that at least the Majority of the Inhabitants of the thirteen united States will prefer the Constitution of the seven united Provinces in Holland, to any other; in which Case your Excellency’s Presence is required.  secondly because this is the opinion of all my Correspondents in Maryland, Pensylvany, Jersy & New york.  thirdly because I should be sorry if I had given the least Offence to your Excellency in this humble Address, or mentioned a single Word contrary to your Excellency’s Sentiments, and that I might obtaine a Pardon by your Excellency for all Tresbasses of this Nature unknowingly committed by me.


Title: To George Washington from Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle Duportail, 16 September 1783
From: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle
To: Washington, George

                     Dear general
                     philadelphie 16 7bre 1783

                  The officers of my department and myself have waited patienly till now with the army that Congress be pleased to take a Resolution Concerning them and we would wait still longer if we were not in a particular situation—when the army or part of it shall be dismissed the american officers may go home when they please—but it is not so with us—your Excellency knows that we are almost all foreigners—so to go home we must cross the atlantic but I beg leave to observe, dear general, that the winter is approaching, that in that season the opportunities for going are much more scarce, the voyage not pleasant and for many of us the distance from the sea town to our respective places of abode very great.  I may add that it is of some importance for those who are attached to the service in europe to show themselves there the soonest possible.  Thus, dear general, I take the liberty of intreating your Excellency to urge the resolution of Congress respecting our departement.
                  If the present Circumstances do not permit them to take a final determination it is possible perhaps to take such measures as would set at liberty those who may wish for it without however losing irrevocably those whose services might be desired afterwards by Congress and who might be inclined to continue them.  but I entreat again your excellency most earnestly to engage Congress to take a Resolution upon this the soonest possible for which we shall have the greatest gratitude.  I have the honour to be with great Respect your Excellency’s the most obedient and humble servant

                     duportail


Title: From George Washington to William Irvine, 16 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Irvine, William

                     sir
                     Rocky Hill 16th Septr 1783

                  Your Letter of the 6th by Lieut. Rose has been duly received.
                  As the Secrety at War had undertaken to furlough all that part of the Army which lay South of the Delaware, I was much surprized, on the receipt of your Letter, to find that business so irregularly conducted at Fort Pitt; but on enquiry at the War Office, the difficulty seems evidently to have originated from circumstances that could not have been foreseen, the particular of which you will be fully informed of, by Majr Jackson, the Asst Secrety at War, and which, I hope will be perfectly satisfactory to you.  I am with esteem sir &c.


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 17 September 1783
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philada Septemr 17th 1783

                  The Blankets & Osnabrigs were sent to the Care of Mr Richardson by a waggon which was going there & the Expence very little more than the freight would have been by water & wt. less risque—they were arrived safe & delivered to Mr Lund Washington.
                  The other Articles orderd by you will be most or all of them procured in time to send by a vessel which is here from Potomack & shall be directed to the Care of Colo. Hooe or Fitzgerald and by the same Conveyance I shall send the Stays for Mrs Washington.
                  Altho’ some Carpenters have been advertised I have not found one in the First Vessels that would answer for a home Joiner, but several other Ships are expected with Servants & Dr Hutchinson who visits most of them on their Arrival has promised to enquire as they Come in for such a person & inform me when he meets one.
                  I waited on Mr Morris for the money on your account—he informed me he had wrote to you on the subject & could not pay it at least til he heard from you in Answer to his Letter—Mrs Biddle joins in Compliments to Mrs Washington. With the greatest Respect From Your Excellencys Most Obed. & very humbe servt

                     Clement Biddle


Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 17 September 1783
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Princeton Septbr 17th 1783.

                  Every publick acknowledgment of the essential Service, rendered our common Country by your Excellency during a doubtful War, has given me the most sensible Pleasure, and it has been among the gratifications of my Office, that its duties have priviledged my transmitting, the constant Sense Congress have maintained of your Excellency’s great Merit & good Conduct.
                  I have now the additional Satisfaction of enclosing an Act of Congress, by which their high Confidence, placed in your Excellency’s Wisdom and Judgment since the War has ceased, very manifestly appears.I have the honor to be with every Sentiment of Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & very Hble Servt

                     Elias Boudinot


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 17 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                     Dear Sir
                     Rocky Hill 17th Septr 1783

                  Your two Letters of the 3d & 10th inst., with the enclosed Returns, have been duly received.
                  To prevent the trouble in Future of transmitting the particular Returns of each Corps, let the Fort Major or Adjutant, digest them into one General Return, as I only wish to have a view of the general strength & state of the Troops.
                  As Congress have reassumed the consideration of a Peace Establishment, it is probable that something on that subject will be determined in the course of a few weeks, when the final arrangement of the Troops on the North River will take place; ’till then, it will be unnecessary to make any distributions of Cloathing, except what is absolutely necessary.
                  After the evacuation of New York, it is my present determination to make a visit to West Point, (with the whole or part of Congress, if they can be persuaded,) to partake of the Festivity on the celebration of Peace, if the Season should be far advanced before this event takes place, the joyfulness of the occasion must palliate for the uncomfortable state of the Bowers.
                  I think it necessary that the Artillery Officer & Men, you mention, should be sent immediately to the Posts on the Mohawk River, & it would be best to detach them from the New York Regt.  With Compliments to Mrs Knox I am Dear sir Your Most Obedt Servt


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 17 September 1783
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     West point 17th Sepr 1783

                  I have the honor to enclose to your Excellency the last weekly returns of the troops.
                  Since my last, I appointed a board to inspect the decrepid and infirm who were incapable of duty, which have reported sixty one to be discharged as unfit for service, one of them with a pension.  I shall accordingly discharge them which I hope will have your Excellency’s approbation.
                  We are busy in withdrawing the Cannon of the out posts, and making every arrangement so as to place the stores in the best order our means will admit.  I have the honor to be with great respect your Excellency’s obedient servant

                     H. Knox


Title: From David Cobb to Timothy Pickering, 17 September 1783
From: Cobb, David
To: Pickering, Timothy

                     sir
                     Rocky Hill 17th Septr 1783

                  I have received your two Letters & one to Colo. Humphrys, who is very sick at present with a fever; the business you requested of him, I have negociated with the General, who directs me to inform you, that he thinks Capt. Bushnell entitled to forrage for a horse since the period of Capt. Gillelands resignation—not however on the principle of his belonging to the Corps of Engineers, who are allowed horses, as the establishment of the Corps of Sappers & Miners was expressly without that knowledge, but from his having performed since Octr 1782 the duties of those Staff Officers, who in the general establishment of the Army, are allowed forrage; this allowance is made by the General on this express condition, that no other Officer of that Corps shall be entitled to the same previledge.
                  Capt. Bushnell’s Letter with the blank discharges you requested, are enclosed. I am Dr sir &c.

                     D. Cobb


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Louis-Ambroise, chevalier de Villefranche de Genton, 17 September 1783
From: Villefranche de Genton, Jean-Louis-Ambroise, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                     sir
                     west point Sepr 17th 83.

                  I have the honor to send to your excellency, my observations while with genl baron de steubens; they are very Conteracted, and besides i cannot warant their exactness, owing to the general being in a very great haste, to get to Canada, we did not stop to any of those positions on lake champlain which it had been very interesting to examine; and I was not permitted to go on shore at l’isle aux noix and st john.  i have the honor to be with the profondest respect. your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant

                     Villefranche


Title: From George Washington to Daniel Parker, 18 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Parker, Daniel

                  D. SirRocky Hill Sepr 18th 1783

                  Be so good as to receive from Colo. Smith, Fifty Guineas which were left in his hands, for my use, by the Count Del Vermé; and apply them to my Credit in payment for the Pipe of Wine (which was to be sent to Virginia) with the other things—if they could be got, agreeably to my former letter of the 12th.
                  You would do me a favor by requesting Mr Frauncis to enquire if a good Cook, German I should prefer, could be obtained, & sent to me immediately.  Mrs Thompson, formerly my Housekeeper and lately gone to the City probably can assist in the enquiries and examination.  I want a Person that has understanding in the business—who can order, as well as get a dinner— who can make dishes, & proportion them properly, to any Company which shall be named to him to the amount of 30.  If such a Person can be had who is well recommended for honesty, sobriety and good temper I should think myself fortunate.
                  As the army as well as many Genteel Families are now upon the point of leaving New York I should not conceive it to be very difficult to succeed.  I am &ca

                     G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Parker, 18 September 1783
From: Parker, Daniel
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     New York Septemr 18th 1783

                  I had the honor to receive your Excellency’s favor of the 12th instant since which I have caused the Glasses to be procured by Mr Fraunces as per inclosed Bill—The two pipes of wine were shipt on board the ship Hunter for Alexandria together with some Goods belonging to your Excellency that were in the care of Capt. Pemberton—the whole are directed to the care of Mr George Gray Merchant in Port Tobacco who was in this City some days since and promis’d to send them immediately on their arrival to Mount Vernon—As the ship does not sail before Monday I shall cause one pipe of the wine to be taken out of her and include the other with all the Goods that are sent in her for your account in one Bill of lading which I shall transmit to your Excellency by the next Conveyance; I requested Mr Fraunces to obtain the lowest price that a neat and compleat set of Table China could be obtained for, he has made particular enquiry and can find none on better terms than the inclosed which I think is higher than they can be bought for in Philadelphia—We can find no compleat setts that are ready packd in this City.
                  West India goods in general are 10 per Cent cheaper here than in Philadelphia at this juncture but the fluctuating state of the markets renders it very uncertain which may be the cheaper three weeks hence—Super fine broad cloths and table Linnen are cheaper in Philadelphia than here—Irish linnen and hard-ware of all kinds are nearly the same price in both places—British goods in general differ very little in price.  I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt servt

                     Danl Parker

                Enclosure

                         Septr 18th 1783
                     27 Dishes 2Turreen’s 2Dishes for Do 2Sallad Dishes 4Butter Boats 4Dishes for Do 6small Turreen’s 6Dishes for Do43Flatt Plates43Soop Do42Desart Do 24Froot Do205ps. for 36 Guine’s
                        Blue White China

                Enclosure

                        New York 18th Septr 1783

                     Mr Saml Fraunces Bot of Edward Nicoll Junr For His Excellency Genl Washington
                        6doz. Cut Wine Goblets32/£9.122doz. do Claret do48/4.163doz. Beer do48/ 7.43doz. Water basons48/10.1618Quart Decanters12/.162Water Bottles8/.164less do 4/.141Pr Cut Rummers. 81Pr butter TubsBarrls   . 4£42.10Contents Recd       Edwd Nicoll Junr


Title: From George Washington to Elias Boudinot, 19 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Boudinot, Elias

                     Sir,                      Rocky Hill Sepr 19th 1783

                  The letter from General Duportail of which the enclosure No. 1 is a copy, was presented to me yesterday.  I beg leave, agreeably to the wishes of these Gentlemen, to recommend their case to the immediate & serious consideration of Congress.
                  I take the liberty also, of laying before Congress an extract of a Letter No. 2 from Majr Genl Knox, on the subject of Clothing for the Troops on the North River, together with my answer to it No. 3.  Congress will readily perceive the necessity there is of coming to a decision soon, with respect to the Force they mean to provide for.
                  Perhaps, among the multiplicity of public concerns, an attention to the Situation of the troops on Furlough, may have yielded to more urgent business; but this being also a matter of importance, I take the liberty of bringing it to view; as, on the footing they stand at present, a considerable expence, without the prospect of an adequate benefit, is incurred; unless the impolicy of giving by public Proclamation, authenticity to the discharges while the British forces remain in New York, can be deemed such.  I call them discharges, because it is in this light the Furloughs have all along been considered; and no call, I am perswaded will ever bring the common Soldiery back to their Colours— the whole matter therefore lyes, in balancing properly between the expence of delay and the public annunciation of an epocha which may be premature.  I have the honor to be with very great respect Yr Excellys Most obt & Hble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle Duportail, 19 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle

                     Dear sir
                     Rocky Hill 19th Septr 1783

                  I have received your Letter of the 16th inst., and this day have laid it before Congress, their determinations, which I hope will be speedy, & agreeable to your wishes, shall be transmitted to you as soon as they come to hand.  I am Dr sir

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 20 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

                     Dear Sir,
                     Rocky Hill Sep. 20th 1783.

                  The last Post brought me your favor of the 17th.  I am sorry Mr Morris did not pay the money at the time and in the manner I expected—Inclosed I send you Eight Hundred Dollars in Bank Notes, & will write to you more fully in a day or two; business prevents me from doing it at this moment.  I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Stephens Smith, 20 September 1783
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     New York 20th Septr 1783

                  By the Bearer Capt. Pinkney I return the Glass which your Excellency was so obliging as to lend me at the end of the last Campaign I should have forwarded it before had I not expected to have had an opportunity of presenting it in person—I have been confined for six day’s past to my Room with a severe ague & fever which paid me a visit every day—the Bark has at last broke it but left me very weak—I have the Honor to be your Excellency’s most obedt Humbe Servt

                     W.S. Smith


Title: From George Washington to Lund Washington, 20 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Lund

                     Dr LundRocky Hill September 20, 1783

                  Mrs Custis has never suggested in any of her Letters to Mrs Washington (unless ardent wishes for her return, that she might then disclose it to her, can be so construed) the most distant attachment to D.S.— but if this should be the case, and she wants advice upon it; a Father  Mother, who are at hand, & competent to give it, are at the same time most proper to be consulted on so interesting an event.  For my own part, I never did, nor do I believe, I ever shall give advice to a woman who is setting out on a matrimonial voyage; first, because I never could advise one to marry without her own consent; & secondly, because I know it is to no purpose to advise her to refrain, when she has obtained it.  A woman very rarely asks an opinion, or requires advice on such an occasion, ’till her resolution is formed; & then it is with the hope & expectation of obtaining a sanction, not that she means to be governed by your disapprobation, that she applies.  In a word, the plain english of the application may be summed up in these words— I wish you to think as I do; but if unhappily you differ from me in opinion, my heart, I must confess is fixed, & I have gone too far now to retract."
                  If Mrs Custis should ever suggest any thing of this kind to me, I will give her my opinion of the measure, not of the man, with candour, & to the following effect.  I never expected you would spend the residue of your days in widowhood; but in a matter so important, & so interesting to yourself, Children & Connexions; I wish you would make a prudent choice; to do which, many considerations are necessary— such as the family & connexions of the man— his fortune (which is not the most essential in my eye)—the line of conduct he has observed— & disposition & frame of his mind.  You should consider, what prospect there is of his proving kind & affectionate to you— just, generous & attentive to your children— and, how far his connexions will be agreeable to you; for when they are once formed, agreeable or not, the die being cast, your fate is fixed.  Thus far, & no farther I shall go in my opinions.  I am, Dr Lund, &c.

                     G: W——n


Title: To George Washington from Richard Platt, 21 September 1783
From: Platt, Richard
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Highlands 21st september 1783.

                  Hearing of the promotion lately of Captains Sargent and North, upon the same principles of the French Officers promoted some time past; I have been impelled by a sense of duty to myself, and I hope propriety, to lay before Congress a state of my services, from the commencement of the war, to the present day; in hopes, tho’ unassisted by gilded recommendation, to stand in an equally meritorious point of view, with some of my brother officers, who have been honored with the Notice of Congress: And as they may probably have recourse to your Excellency, previously, to any Decision on the points contained in my memorial; which are, an advancement of Rank and Compensation for extra services; I must beg leave to make you acquainted with the purport of it’s Contents, which the enclosure points out.  I should be much happier be assured, to be under the influence of some brilliant service to obtain what I ask, than situated as I am; but when I assure myself notwithstanding that Occasion and not inclination has been wanting, I shall have for my support the consciousness of a faithfull discharge of whatever duty has fallen to my Lot, altho’ I may be unsuccessful in my Attempt.  However I persuade myself, if, either in the course of my services under your Excellency’s Observation; from the Information of my principal, or others; or, from the state of my own narrative, any merit should arise in my favor, you will not be wanting to give it operation.  I beg indulgence to mention two Circumstances not in the memorial: The one, that however pleasing rank was to me, I declined in March 1777, the offer of the Majority in Colonel Lamb’s Regiment of Artillery, purely from a principal of not injuring some of his Captains, who had been my superiors once, and being instrumental in obliging them to resign: The other, that I received the Thanks of the Commander in Chief in Orders in July 1779 for my services as Deputy Adjutant General.  I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s most Obedient, and most humble servant

                     Richd Platt

                Enclosure

                         c.21 September 1783

                     That he was a Lieutenant at the first raising of Troops in the state of New York,  that he was among those who first entered Canada under General Montgomery—that he continued there till May 1st 1776, the period of the Expiration of their service; and afterwards entered himself a volunteer on board of an Armed Vessel in the River.
                     That on the 2nd May he was detach’d by Genl Wooster, (Genl Thomas not having yet taken the Command) in Consequence of Intelligence received of the Lading of some vessels up the St Lawrence with Provisions for the Enemy in Quebec; with orders to proceed up that River in a small boat as far as the Mouth of the Sorrell in search of all such Vessels, to seize & secure them, if any to be found, for the Use of teh Army—That he executed the Command & was on his return the 8th of the same Month as far as Three Rivers when he received Intelligence of the Arrival of the Enemy’s Reinforcement, the raising of the seige & our Army’s Retreat intending to rendezvous at Sorrall; to which place he repaired, reported to the Commanding Officer, shew’d his Instructions; and as he had lost all his Baggage solicited leave to return to New York.
                     That in June 1776 he was appointed by Congress a Captain in Colonel Duboises Regt; but as that gentleman, indulged with the nomination of his Officers, had made such a strange blend of their Rank, that he could not serve with propriety.  That he was appointed in August 1776, Major of Brigade to Genl McDougall; and on his advancement to the Rank of Major Genl, his Aide de Camp.
                     That he had exercis’d the last mentioned office ever since, excepting, when Genl McDougall was at Congress for nine mouths, he had taken upon himself the undesireable office of Deputy Quarter Master to the main Army under Colonel Pickering, in preference to remaining inactive, which he might have done, and when the General’s Command was stationary at Westpoint in 1781 he served with Lord Stirling in the Field as his Aide; and afterwards that when the army moved to the southward he asked the Auspices of General Lincoln who gave him the offer of Inspector to his Division, which was accepted by him & in which Capacity he acted that Campaign—and afterwards joined his principal at Westpoint.
                     That Besides having frequently done extra staff Duty, he asked some Compensation of Congress for it, as well as an advancement of Rank, upon the same principles of others lately promoted, in Consideration of his service.


Title: To George Washington from James Duane, 22 September 1783
From: Duane, James
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Princeton 22d Septemr 1783.

                  A Resolution which lately passed—and which I have long had at Heart—makes it necessary that I should inform your Excellency that the foreign dispatches last received, and which were referred to a Committee of which I was Chairman, are returned into the Secretary’s Office, and ready for your Excellency’s perusal whenever it suites Your Convenience. With the most perfect Esteem and Respect, I have the Honour to be Dear Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient & very humble Servant

                     Jae. Duane


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 22 September 1783
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Princeton Septemr 22nd 1783

                  A Committee to whom the copy of Genl duportail’s letter of the 16 Inst: addressd to your Excellency; is referd: desire a conference with you upon the Subject of that letter.
                  I you will please to name a time most agreable to you, the committee will be happy to wait upon you in the Congress Chamber.
                  Should half past nine in the morning Suit with your engagements, give me leave to request the honour of your company to breakfast at my lodgings in the morning of the Same day previous to the conference.  I have the Honour to be with perfect Respect Your humble Servt

                     Saml Huntington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Safford, 22 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Safford, Samuel

                     Sir
                     Rocky Hill near Princeton 22d Septr 1783

                  I have received your Letter of the 4th inst., and shall transmit to the Secretary at War, your acceptance of the Commutation in lieu of half pay.
                  Whatever is necessary to be done for the future settlement of your Accounts, you will be fully informed by applying to the Pay Master General, John Peirce Esqr. who is authorised by Congress to make a final adjustment with the Officers of the Army.  I am sir Your Most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Louis-Ambroise, chevalier de Villefranche de Genton, 22 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Villefranche de Genton, Jean-Louis-Ambroise, chevalier de

                      22 September 1783

                  By His Excellency G. Washington, Genl & Commander in Chief &c. &c. this may Certify that Lt Colo. Villefranche entered the Service of the United States in 1776, as Captain of the Corps of Engineers, in 1777 was promoted to a Majority, and in May 1783 to a Lieut. Colo in that Corps.
                  From the testimony of Majr Generals Heath, Howe, McDougall and Knox, under whose Orders Lt Colo. Villefranche has served, it appears that in the various services in which he has been constantly employed, he has shown such zeal, activity & knowledge of his profession, as entitle him to their highest approbation during great part of the above mentioned time, Lieut. Colo Villefranche has served in the Army under my immediate Command, and it affords me great pleasure to give this testimony of my entire satisfaction at every part of his conduct that has fallen under my notice, which has been such as justly entitles him to the Character of a brave & deserving officer.  Given at Princeton this 22d day of Septr 1783.

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Bushrod Washington, 22 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Bushrod

                     Dear Bushrod,
                     Rocky Hill 22d Septr 1783

                  With this you will receive the letter of your Aunt Lewis, to me.  Altho’ I believe the ground she is proceeding upon, has more of the ideal than real advantages, which she expects from it, yet I have no objection to the experiments being made,  & pray you to pursue the dictates of her letter, & communicate to me the result as soon as the necessary enquiries are made.
                  Let me beg of you to make enquiry of some of the best Cabinet Makers, at what price, & in what time, two dozen strong, neat & plain, but fashionable, Table chairs (I mean chairs for a dining room) could be had; with strong canvas bottoms to receive a loose covering of check, or worsted, as I may hereafter choose.
                  Since I have already chalked out so much business for you, I will go further, & ask you to enquire at what prices the several kinds of French & other wines (Maderia excepted, of which I have enough) of good quality, can be bought; & whether the stock on hand, or the quantity expected, is said to be large.  Give me the prices also of imported Nutts and Fruits of different kinds, by the measure, weight, jarr or otherwise as they are usually sold—Also of Olives, Capers Oil, Anchovies &ca.  As you are young in this business, take some Mentor as a guide to your enquiries.  I wish also that you would enquire, if there is any blue & white table china, to be had in setts and the price.  Table china frequently comes in packed up in compleat setts, amounting to a gross, or gross & a half of pieces, all kinds included.
                  There is another thing likewise which I wish to know, without having it known for whom the enquiry is made; & that is, whether French plate is fashionable & much used in genteel houses in France & England; and whether, as we have heard, the quantity in Philadelphia is large—of what pieces it consists, & whether among them, there are Tea urns, Coffee pots, Tea pots, & the  other equipage for a tea table, with a tea board, Candlesticks & waiters large & small, with the prices of each.  These enquiries you may make in behalf of a friend, without bringing my name forward, ’till occasion (if a purchase shou’d happen) may require it.
                  Give me information upon these several matters, as soon as you conveniently can; & return my Sisters Letter, that I may the better know how to write to her.  With great regard I am, Your affectionate

                     G: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle Duportail, 23 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle

                     Dear Sir,
                     Rocky Hill Septr 23d 1783

                  I was this day in conference with a Commee of Congress upon the subject of your letter to me of the 16th Instt—they discovered every disposition to relieve the the Gentln of your departmt from the state of uncertainty in wch they are at prest, but wished previous to their making a report to Congress to obtain your Sentiments more in detail upon a proper Peace establishment for the Engineering Line of the Army, agreeably to the Idea contained in your general observations which are now before Congress.  I know you will require more information than they, or I, can give you in the undecided state in which things now are before you can deliver a precise opinion but all the data I can give you to work upon, is, that we ought to maintain West Point as a Post—those which the British are to surrender to us—and such as it may be found necessary to establish West & So. West of them upon the most oeconomical plan.
                  The sooner you can favor the Comee (or me in their behalf) with your sentiments on this subject, the sooner the matter will be brought to a decision.  In the meantime, if you have it in your power, you would oblige me by giving me information of the names of the Gentn in yr departmt who are disposed to remain in this Country upon a Peace establishment.  I am Dr Sir Yr most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Howe, 23 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

                     Dear Sir,
                     Rocky Hill Septr 23d 1783.

                  Congress by a Resolve of this date, have directed me to dispose of the Regiment which remains at Philadelphia in any manner I shall see fit.
                  As the business which required the Presence of Troops at Philadelphia is accomplished & the proceedings approved and acted upon by Congress, I am to desire that all the Troops at that place who are able to March may commence it immediately for West point.  and that such as are not able to march, may be left under proper Officers with orders to follow as soon as they are.  I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 23 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                     My dear Sir,
                     Rocky Hill 23d Sep. 1783

                  The favorable Sentiments expressed in your private letter of the 17th Inst., and which you say are felt by the Officers in general on the late honor confered upon me by Congress, cannot fail of adding greatly to my sensibility on the occasion.  It always has, and I trust ever will be, the most pleasing reflection of my life that in a contest so important, so long, & so arduous, accompanied with such a variety of distressing & perplexing circumstances to all who have been engaged in it but more especially to the Officers of the Army that I have been able, under all these disadvantages, to point my course in such a manner as to have receiv’d many flattering testimonies of regard from the latter, and proofs of general esteem from my Country at large.
                  I have left no oppertunity unimproved to bring the Officers Petition to an Issue.  I have not heard an uplifted voice against it since I came to this place; and if I am to form a judgment from what I have seen & heard, Congress is sincerely disposed to serve them.  but there was a difficulty in the way of which I had no knowledge ’till I came here, and it is not absolutely got over yet.That District of Country located by the Petitioners is part of the Land claimed by Virginia—Virginia, with certain reservations, and upon Condition that the United States should Guarantee the remainder of her Territory, ceded all the Lands Northwest of the Ohio—To these terms Congress would not agree—thus matters had stood for more than two years—and thus I found them when I came here.  I have laboured since, & I hope not unsuccessfully, to convince the Members of Congress that while the United States and the State of Virginia are disputing about the right, or the terms of the Cession, Land jobbers and a lawless Banditti who would bid defiance to the Authority of either & more than probably involve this Country in an Indian War, would spread themselves over the whole of it, to the great injury to the Officers &ca of the Army, who are patiently waiting the decision of Congress to settle in a legal manner and under a proper form of Government.  Within these few days, Congress have accepted the Virginia Cession with some exceptions which the Delegates from that State think will be yielded to by the Assembly at its next meeting in October—In the meantime, if it can be done with propriety, I will endeavor to have preparatory arrangements made, that no delay may happen when the present difficulties shall be removed.
                  As I have never heard it suggested by any Member of Congress that General Lincoln either had offered, or proposed to offer his resignation upon the arrival of the Definitive Treaty (tho’ I have understood as much from himself) I have no ground, as yet, to work upon; but whenever the occasion shall offer, I will not forget your wishes, nor shall I want inclination to promote them.
                  If you can learn by indirect means which of, or whether all the Engineers now at West point (if you could extend it to others thro’ that channel so much the better) are inclined to remain in the American Service upon a Peace Establishment I would thank you for the information.
                  I shall be obliged to you for pointing out, in precise terms, what is expected from the President of the Cincinnati previous to the general Meeting in May next—As I never was present at any of your Meetings, & have never seen the proceedings of the last, I may, for want of information of the part I am to act, neglect some essential duty; which might not only be injurious to the Society, but Mortifying to myself, as it would discover a want of Knowledge, or want of attention in the President.
                  Humphreys & Walker have each had an ill turn since they came to this place—the latter is getting about, but the other is still in his Bed of a fever that did not till yesterday quit him for 14 or 15 days.  The danger I hope is now past, and he has only his flesh to recover, part of which, or in other words of the weight he brought with him from the Scales at West point he would readily compound for.  Mrs Washington has also been very unwell as most of my domesticks & Guard have been & indeed now are—Mrs Washington & myself are very glad to hear that Mrs Knox & the Children are well—she joins me very cordially in best wishes for them—& Compliments to General & Mrs Huntington & all our Acquaintances with you. I am very truely & affectionably Yr Most Obedt & very Hble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Fitzhugh, 24 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzhugh, William

                     Dear Sir,
                     Princeton Septr 24th 1783.

                  The Count del Vermé who will present this letter to you, is an Italian Nobleman of distinction; on his Travels thro’ America.  He comes highly recommended by our Ministers at the Court of France, and from the opportunities I have had to form an opinion of him, is very deserving of attention.  I take the liberty therefore of recommending him to your Civilities, and the Civilities of your Acquaintance.
                  As he has been through all the States Northward of this, and is now travelling to the Southward as far as Charles Town, there to Embark, it would be more satisfactory to pass down the Rappahannock to some certain point, & then cross over to York & James Rivers than to pursue the direct Road to the latter through the most uncultivated part of the whole State. & I perswade myself he will derive such aids & direction from you as will render his tour most agreeable.  I am &ca

                     G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 24 September 1783
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     West Point 24 September 1783.

                  I have the honor to enclose the return of the troops, to the 20th instant, and am, with the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s most obedient servant,

                     H. Knox M.G.


Title: From George Washington to William Paca, 24 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Paca, William

                  S. Princeton Septr 24th 1783
                  The Gentleman who will present this Letter to you, is the Count Del Vermé an Italian Nobleman on his travels thro’ America—he is recommended by our Ministers at the Court of Versailles, and as far as I have been able to form a judgment of him, is highly worthy of attention—I take the liberty therefore of recommending him to your civilities, and to those of your acquaintance. & to assure you of the esteem & regard with which I am &ca

                     G. W——n

                     Letters similar to the above were written to Govr Harrison—Genl Nelson.  The Honbe Archd Cary—& Colo. Fitzgerald.


Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 25 September 1783
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Princeton Septr 25th 1783

                  I have the honor of enclosing to your Excellency several Acts of Congress relative to the Army, dated the 23d & 24 Instt. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obed. & Hble Servt

                     Elias Boudinot


Title: From George Washington to James Cassaty, 25 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Cassaty, James

                     Sir
                     Rocky hill 25 Septr 1783

                  Your Letter of the 11th Instant care duly to hand—as I am sorry that the conduct of the Officer commandg at Oswego put you to the inconveniences you mention.
                  I expect Governor Clinton here in the course of a few days when I shall confer with him on what is further necessary to be done in this affair—I am.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 25 September 1783
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Philadelphia 25th Septr 1783

                  Previous to your Excellency’s favour this moment receiv’d the troops were under orders to march for Tomorrow.  some papers which ought to have been sent me were omitted to be transmitted, & I sh’d not get them until saturday by Mr Jackson.  The subsistance money for the next month was requisit
                     ioned to the movement of the officers, they receiv’d it last Evening & requir’d this day to settle their Accts—not one moment therefore has been lost—Your Excellency’s direction shall with pleasure be Oblig’d I have the honour to be with great regard & Respect Sir your Excellency’s Most Obt hum. servt

                     Robt Howe


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 25 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                     Sir,
                     Rocky Hill 25th Septr 1783

                  I have perused the Report & Proclamation which you were pleased to put into my hands for consideration; and think an alteration in the first, and a consequent one in the other, indispensably necessary; Because as the Report now stands, it is not broad enough to comprehend the several cases which exist—for the Troops of the Southern Army were furloughed by General Green, whilst those, which lay in a manner between the two armies, were under the more immediate direction of the Secretary at War, & acted upon by him.
                  It appears to me proper therefore, to strike out the latter part of the Report & after the Words "during the War" in the third line, to insert, "and who by the resolutions of Congress of the  and of  were entitled to Furloughs be absolutely discharged from the said Service, from and after the  day of  next."
                  The Proclamation conforming thereto, Congress may, if they conceive there is a propriety in it, (after the necessary recitals are made) offer their thanks to the Army generally, for its long & faithful Services, and then add—that the further Services in the field of the Officers who have been deranged & retired on furloughs in consequence of the aforesaid resolutions, can now be dispensed with— That they have the permission of Congress to retire from Service— and that they are no longer liable from their present Engagements to be called into Command again.
                  I can see no greater inconvenience resulting from this measure than is to be found in many other instances, arising from not making the Peace Establishment a primary, instead of a subsequent Act, to them; for had this taken place in time, a system might have been formed, and every thing relative to that system made to accord with it, whereas the longer it is delayed the more incongruous probably it will be, as we are by this means forming the extremities, before we have moulded the body.  Consequently the body must be made to conform, and grow to the limbs, not the limbs to the Body which may be found as difficult in the Political as Natural formation of things, and like thereunto the attempt more than probably will produce a Monster.
                  A Proclamation couched in some such terms as Is here suggested would I think, reduce all the General as well as other Officers except those who were retained with the three Years Men, and such as are immediately employed in the Staff wch I think consists of only Baron de Steuben and G: Duportail and would moreover I think, leave out all the Engineers for the future decision of Congress.  I have the honr to be Sir &ca

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Ruthey Jones, 25 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Jones, Ruthey

                     Madam,
                     Princeton Septr 25th 1783.

                  A few days since Major Fishbourn, Aid de Camp to General Wayne, presented to me your letter of the 29th of May from Belfast in Georgia.  Some years ago I had the honor to receive other letters from you on the same subject one of which dated at the same place,  I embraced the earliest opportunity of answering, but suppose it never got to hand as your last is written under the same mistake as the former.
                  The relationship which you seem to suppose there is betwn us does not exist of which you would have been clearly convinced if my former Letter had ever reached you.
                  My Father it is true had only one Brother; but this Bro. had Six Children; two Sons & four daughters—the eldest of whom Elizabeth died before him, in a Maiden State.  The second, Mildred, is yet alive & a Widow having been twice Married without Issue—the third, Warner, is also living; he has been twice Married, has had many Children & all of them are now with him—the 4th Harry 5th Catharine & 6th Hannah are all 3 dead—Harry left 4 Children; A Son & 3 daughters; two of the latter are dead—Catharine married Fielding Lewis Esqr. by whom she left a Son & daughter; the latter died without Issue, the former is now living.  Hannah married a Whiting by whom she had a Son, who was an only child & who perished in the same Vessel in wch Mr Lynch & others from Charles Town were lost.
                  By comparing this Acct Madam, with yours sent me in a letter of the 15th of Septr 1776 (committed to the care of Genl Howe) in these words "My worthy Grand Father—Mr John Washington was an own Brother to your venerable Father, who I dare say did not think for years before he died, that any of his Brothers posterity were left, as my Grand father had but one Child which was my Mother &ca."  I say by comparing these Accts it will evidently appr that you have mistaken me for some other person, for besides the striking difference here recited between the two accts my Father died many years before my Uncle, & the Issue of neither ever removed from Virginia into any other State or Province, as they have been heretofore called to reside.
                  I have given you this full, & candid state of facts, to prove to you beyond a possibility of doubt, that I am not related to you in the degree you suppose, nor in any other that I can have the smallest conception of.  I am Madam Yr Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 25 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                     Dear Sir,
                     Rocky Hill 25 Septr 1783

                  I have had the pleasure to receive your Letter of the 17 Instant.
                  Your arrangements—in discharging the Invalids and contracting your deposits of Stores meet my fullest approbation—the former especially, not only seconds my views, but those of Congress, whose wish it is, to diminish our force to the number only which may be absolutely necessary—and this I think may be estimated at 3000 Men—A formal Resolution, however to this effect, might not be so well, as to reduce the numbers insensibly, by a more critical Inspection and discharge of all who have any infirmities and of those whose times are near expiring—and this method I would wish you to adopt, with the least possible Stir, until you shall have brought your numbers to three thousand Men as above mentioned.  With great regard & esteem I am Dear sir Your most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Francis Moore, 25 September 1783
From: Moore, Francis
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Baltimore 25th Sepr 1783

                  I have the honour to advise you that a few days previous my leaving Ireland  Mrs Margaret Savage was deceased,  a very disagreable Situation from want of those  in Life which from  she appeared to have a  possessed; during her Indisposition She made her Will distributing a Sum of Money, which She intimated was her right in America, part of which is therein disposed of to yourself, with the Executorship of the whole, which Will is now in my hands; and as this Opportunity is one in which I think I Can rely I now have the honour to hand the same to you, in Testimony of that pleasure which Serving your Excellency will always give my Bosom—Any further information you may Conceive necessary for your Satisfaction by intimating this  in a few Lines to myself in this Town, or Mr Zachariah Allen Notary Public thereof will be Communicated with the greatest pleasure Believing me with Every Sentiment of Respect with  deference Your Excy Most Obedient Servt

                     Francis Moore

                     P.S.  Since writing the above, I have reconsidered and am apprehensive that the Bearer may not go direct in Consequence have Omitted inclosing the Will until Advice from you, or some Certain Opportunity Occurs.

                     F.M.


Title: From George Washington to Elias Boudinot, 26 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Boudinot, Elias

                     Sir
                     Rocky hill 26 Septr 1783

                  I have had the honor to Receive Your Excellencys Letter of Yesterday with the Resolves of Congress inclosed—which I shall with great pleasure communicate to Genl Howe and the troops who were under his command.  I have the honor to be &c.


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 26 September 1783
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Anapolis Sept 26th 1783

                  I am this far on my way to the Northward and should have had the happiness of seeing you before this but have been sick with a fever at Alexandria.  I dined at Mount Vernon and went to Alexandria in the Evening and that night was taken with a fever which lasted me nine days.  For six days I had no intermission and but little remission.  My fever is gone but has left me exceeding weak.  While it was on me I could help my self little better than a Child.  My strength is now so exhausted that I am obliged to travel with care and shall make but slow progress for some days to come.  I have the pleasure to hear your Excellency is in good health but I am sorry to hear Mrs Washington is otherwise.  Every thing is well at Mount Vernon and your friends universally are wishing to see you among them again.  Virginia it is thought will grant the five per Cent duty agreeable to the requisition of Congress. Present me most respectfully to Mrs Washington and the Gentlemen of your family.  Reports say here that Mrs Custis is going to be married shortly to Doctor Stewart.  I am with esteem & affection Your Excellencys Most obedt humble Servt

                     Nath. Greene


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 26 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                     Dr sir
                     Rocky hill 26 Septr 83

                  I am happy in transmitting to you the inclosed Resolves of Congress,which I must desire you to publish to the Army and to assure General Howe and the Detachment who were under his Command, of the pleasure it gives me to communicate to them this public testimony of the approbation of Congress. I am Dear sir Your most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Tadeusz Andrzej Bonawentura Kosciuszko, 26 September 1783
From: Kosciuszko, Tadeusz Andrzej Bonawentura
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia 26 Semptr 1783

                  General Lincoln was pleased to recomend me to Congress. and requested them to promote me to the Ranck of Brygadier General, which by the date of the Commission I hold he thought I was intitled to Long ago.
                  Your Excellency will forgive me the Liberty I take in troubling you in this affaire—Unacquiented as Congress may be of my Services—by the different promotions already granted to many Made me fearfull of puting me at last in the oblivion List of a General promotion.  One word from your Excellency to Congress in my favor (if I can flater my self to obtain it:) will Clear the doubt and rise my hope to certainty.  I am the honor to be your Excellency’s with perfect respect must humble and most Obt Servant

                     Thad: Kosciuszko


Title: To George Washington from George Chapman, 27 September 1783
From: Chapman, George
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Inchdrewer 27th Septr 1783

                  The Independence of the United States of America being now established & their attention called to the internal arrangements, I beg leave to suggest to Your Excellency that the best means of forming a manly, virtuous & happy people will be found to be the right education of youth.
                  For this purpose I beg your Excellency will do me the honour to accept of this copy of my Treatise on Education, which I would not presume to offer, were I not conscious  there is not a sentiment in it unfriendly to the natural rights of  It will render the evening of my life more delightful if  in any degree tend to improve the youth of the United States.
                  I conclude with my warmest wishes for the prosperity of the United States, and am, with great respect, Sir, Your most obedient, humble servant

                     George Chapman,
                  formerly master of the Grammar School of Dumfries, now master of the Academy at Inchdrewer near Banff, N. Britain.

                     P.S:  I propose, this ensuing winter, to publish a third edition of my Treatise on Education, with short Abstracts, annexed, of what others have published, during these last fifty years, on this important subject.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 28 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                     Dear sir
                     Rocky hill 28 Sepr 1783

                  Supposing the necessary number of Troops to be kept up during the Winter it will be necessary to make some provision to supply their wants of Cloathing.
                  That this may not be delayed I am to request you to call for Returns of such Articles as will be absolutely necessary and to forward me a general Return thereof as soon as possible.  I am Dear sir Your very Obed. servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Richard Platt, 28 September 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Platt, Richard

                     Sir,
                     Rocky hill 28 Septr 1783

                  Your Letter of the 21 of this Month with its inclosure reached me a few days since.
                  No application has been made to me on the subject of your Memorial to Congress—nor had I any knowledge of it until I received your Letter; and should I be referred to on the subject I must candidly inform you I cannot give the measure the support you wish.
                  Except on very extraordinary occasions, where it had been the custom of all Nations to grant rewards of that nature, I have ever been opposed to partial promotions; every good Officer has an equal claim to my attention, nor could I ever lend my influence in favor of one individual to the prejudice of others—On this principle I have always acted; and have constantly refused every application of the kind which has been made to me how Captains Sargent and North obtain their promotion, or that they have obtained it—I am wholly ignorant having never heard a word on the subject, otherwise than from common report.
                  A general promotion of one grade by brevet to all Officers whose present commissions bear date prior to the 1 January 1777 has been recommended, and is now before Congress—if this takes place, as I am inclined to think it will, the object of these partial applications will be answered without hurting the feelings of any individual.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 29 September 1783
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     West Point 29 September 1783

                  I beg leave to state to Your Excellency, and through you to the Honorable Congress, That the unavoidable expences arising from the command of this post and its dependencies have greatly exceeded any emoluments of office arising from my rank in the Army—and that, in order to support my station with some propriety, so as not to reflect disgrace upon the public rank I sustain, I have been obliged to make use of my private resources, to a considerable amount.
                  That it has uniformly been customary, from the peculiar expences of the command, to allow the emoluments of a major general commanding in a separate department, but that said allowance was withdrawn a short time previous to Your Excellency’s ordering me in the command.  It may be unnecessary to enter into a detail of circumstances, which have rendered my command as expensive as that of any of my predecessors.  It is sufficient that I can easily prove that it has been so.  I therefore humbly hope to have the same compensation.
                  I pray that Your Excellency would have the goodness to place this request before Congress, in the manner that you may think it deserves.  I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                     H. Knox M. General


Title: To George Washington from Charles, marquis de La Rouërie Armand Tuffin, 30 September 1783
From: Armand Tuffin, Charles, marquis de La Rouërie
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     princeton Sept. 30th 1783

                  I take the liberty to inclose here a Copy of a petition of some of the officers of the army to Congress, & request the permission to make some remarks on the difference betwixt my proposal & their demand.
                  they do not mention positively that any of them shall go & settle on the lands Granted by Congress, nor do they intimate that a body or several body of them wishes to go & settle in Company on those land—as they do not present Congress with a plan of the measures which are Nécéssary to the Général settlement & which in case of that grl settlement they would be induced to mention not only as leading but as Nécéssary to their succés, it is to présume that they mean nothing more, but to have their right to those lands ascertained, & their share marked out, that they may have the bénéfit of them either, by settling them individually or selling them.
                  if I am not wrong to view the matter in that light, there is a sensible différence through the mode I propose for a settlement, in the advantages which the public & the settlers will reap from it, & that to be expected from the demand of the army.
                  partial settlements of individuals will no doubt be bénéficial to the country & more particularly when those individuals are like the officers of the Américain army men of honor in all points, but at the same time more they shall deviate from a general interest & co-opération in their measures & less célérity & conséquence will attend the succés of the settlement in général.
                  your Excellency is persuaded that those who shall the soonest promote their & the public interest in that undertaking, will be those who paying their whole attention & support to it will neglect all others objects not immediately connected with it—I believe that few of that mind are to be found—but at the same time I dare assure that a great part of the legion will submit to the necessity & propriety of the resolution.
                  I request some Common advantages which I believe are Calculated to insure our succés—at least as far as to unite the interest of all those who shall Come with me & to incourage & support them through the hardships which at first are the inevitable conséquence of such an undertaking.
                  however; your Exellency is born with much more talents & has had much more Expérience than myself in the several ways which lead to the knowledge of mankind & of military men & it is with the greatest confidence that I request you would alter my plan & proposals agreable to your own ideas, & I am so far assured that they will be Calculated to promote the public’s interest & our own, that I déclare here I shall agréable to them undertake the exécuting of the plan—and I have no doubt that the regulations which Congress will prescribe to Govern us by, which they will answer the purposes of that hble body will at the same time be favorable & Conducive to our happiness.
                  if there was any objection arising from the possession of those land not being at présent perfectly given to Congress—the question would be thus—the New settlers would be under the state of virginia if the lands were to remain in her possession—or under Congréss if the posséssion of the land was theirs—but at all events a speedy décision would procure more men now, & more officers would follow & spend to that object what money they may have—those advantages will be reduced in a great proportion by a delay.
                  I request your Exellency would introduce & support the project in Congress.  I have the honor to be with the highest respect your Exellency’s Sir the most obdt hbl. St

                     Armand Mqs de la Rouerie

                Enclosure

                        June 16. 1783

                     To His Excellency the President—and honorable Delegates of the United States of America in Congress assembled.  The Petition of the Subscribers Officers in the Continental Line of the Army. Humbly sheweth.
                     That by a resolution of the honorable Congress passed Septemr 20th 1776. and other subsequent resolves the Officers (and Soldiers engaged for the War) of the American Army who shall continue in service till the establishment of peace, or, in case of their dying in service, their Heirs are entitled to receive certain grants of lands, according to their several grades, to be procured for them at the expence of the United States.  That your petitioners are informed that that tract of Country bounded North on Lake Erie, East on Pennsylvania, S. East and south on the river Ohio, west on a line beginning at that part of the Ohio which lies 24 miles west of the mouth of the river Sioto, thence running North on a meridian line, till it intersects the river Miami, which falls into Lake Erie, thence down the middle of that river to the Lake, is a Tract of Country not claimed as the property of, or within the jurisdiction of any particular state in the Union.
                     That this Country is of sufficient extent—the land of such quality and the situation such as may induce Congress to assign, and mark it out of a Tract or Territory suitable to form a distinct Government (or Colony of the United States) in time to be admitted one of the confederated States of America.
                     Wherefore your Petitioners pray that whenever the honorable Congress shall be pleased to procure the aforesaid lands of the Natives they will make provision for the Location and survey of the lands to which we are entitled, within the aforesaid District, and also for all Officers and Soldiers who wish to take up their lands in that quarter.
                     That provision may also be made for a farther Grant of Lands to such of the Army as wish to become Adventurers in the new Government in such quantities and on such conditions of settlement and purchases, for public securities as Congress shall judge most for the Interest of the intended Governments and rendering it of lasting conquence to the American Empire.  And your Petitioners as in duty bound. shall ever pray.
                     Copy.

                Enclosure

                        princeton Sept. 30th 1783

                     1 armand request the hble the Congress would Give to the legion under his Command the lands on the other side of ohio, in the proportion which has been promissed to the army in général.
                     2 that he would be permitted to buy from the public a proportion of lands on a proportion of his half pay.
                     3 that a proportion of land be granted now & at others times for Every person not having been in the army which he may bring there.
                     4 that he receive now a power to go march out those lands & take possession of them.
                     5 that at the same time the legion be ordered to march in the settled parts of the Country as near as possible of the land whére they are to settle.
                     6 that from the time they shall be able to go on those land, a year rations be allowed to them.
                     7 that the pay of the men whose time of service is not at an end be continued as follow—a fourth or fifth part in cash & the remainder in land—till their time of service is Expired.
                     that tools out of the public magazine be granted to them to intrench & work their land.
                     Those men will be able at any time to establish & guard magazins, & sécure that part of the Country.
                     Armand request the land could be granted as near as possible of the river mississippi.