Title: To George Washington from Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 15 March 1783
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                                Monsieur,
                                 A Philadelphie le 15. mars 1783.

                            Vôtre Excéllence recevra sans doute des nouvelles directes de l’etat des affaires en Europe; j’ai pensé
                                néanmoins qu’il pourroit être interéssant pour vous d’être informé de quelques détails que j’ai eu ordre de ne pas
                                rendre publics, mais dont le Congrès aura également connoissance.
                            Le Ministère anglois s’est haté de conclure un Traité eventuel de paix avec les Etats unis, et leur a
                                accordé dans la plus grande étendue tous les avantages qu’ils pouvoient desirer. L’acharnement avec lequel cette
                                Puissance a fait la guerre en Amérique n’anonçoit pas cette extrême facilité et elle a causé une Surprise agréable aux
                                Puissances belligérantes vous jugerés aisément, Monsieur, que nôtre satisfaction a eté complete en voyant le principal
                                obstacle qui s’opposoit à la paix, mis de la sorte à l’ecart.
                            Nous avons cru pouvoir esperer que l’epoque d’une paix générale n’etoit nullement eloignées; cependant les
                                anglois en se montrant disposés à conclure avec les Cours de Versailles et de Madrid paroissent beaucoup plus
                                difficultueux dans la Négociation entamée avec les Etats généraux. Mais le Roi qui a refusé dans tout le cours de
                                cette guerre de conclure la paix sans avoir procuré à Ses Alliés une Satisfaction juste et raisonable persiste dans
                                les mêmes Sentimens et il ne doute pas que les Etats unis de leur côté ne remplissent leurs engagemens en continuant
                                la guerre jusquà la conclusion definitive du Traité et ne deconcertent entierement les esperances des anglois qui Se
                                flattent qu’au moyen du Traité eventuel qui vient d’être conclu il S’etablira dans le Continent une treve facile ou
                                une Suspension reciproque d’hostilités équivalente à une trêve ecrite et Signée.
                            Il est possible que la fermeté et la resolution de S.M. determine l’Angleterre a faire les restitutions
                                pour lesquelles elle montre tant de répuguance, mais il est possible aussi que la guerre continue encore cette année
                                et c’est pour mettre les Etats unis en Situation de la continuer avec vigueur que S.M. leur a accordé un prêt de Six
                                millions de livres tournois. Six cents mille livres Sont arrivés par le Paquebot le Washington, mais j’ai appris avec
                                beaucoup de peine que Mr. Morris avoit eté forcé par le manque de moyens pécuniaires d’anticiper Sur les Secours qu’il
                                espéroit recevoir; ensuite que la partie des Six Millions encore disponible n’est pas aussi considérable qu’il eut eté
                                à desirer.
                            Il reste à examiner de quelle maniere on pourra inquietter et ressérer l’ennemi pendent la campagne
                                prochaine. Je ne prendrai pas la liberté de Sonder Vos projets sur ce point, Monsieur, mais je vous prie de me
                                permettre de Vous dire que ce Sera Service utilement la cause commune que d’empêcher les importations de Subsistances
                                dans Newyork, et en cas d’une evacuation de cette place, de priver autant qu’il Sera possible l’ennemi
                                des facilités qu’il cherchera à Se procurer pour faire la Campagne aux Isles. Mr. le Duc de Lauzun
                                S’entretiendra avec Votre Excéllence Sur ces points à Son retour de l’Est: Je vous Supplie de vouloir
                                bien conférer avec lui Sur les moyens de faire Servir Sa legion de bonne heure. Elle peut être très utile au Service
                                dont il S’agit, et il Sera certainement très empressé a exécuter tout ce que vous desirerés de lui.
                            Dans tous les cas il ne peut qu’être utile de Se tenir dans une position hostile: Si les Negociations
                                produisent les heureux effets que nous desirons je ne perdrai pas de tems à en informer Votre Excéllence, et
                                connoissant votre humanité je ne croirai jamais pouvoir vous annoncer une nouvelle plus conforme à vos desirs que
                                celle d’une paix générale honnorable et Sure pour les Alliés. Vous etes bien convaincu que le Roi la desire
                                Sincérement et les Sacrifices qu’il fait pour l’obtenir le prouveront.
                            Si le Traité vous est communiqué, Monsieur, vous y verrés que le Roi d’Angleterre S’est reservé la
                                liberté de conclure ou de ne pas conclure le Traité de paix avec l’Amerique, en Sorte que l’Acte Signé le 30. 9bre
                                entre les Commissaires respectifs est purement conditionel et eventuel. J’ai l’honneur d’etre avec un respectueux et
                                inviolable attachement Monsieur de Votre Excéllence le très humble et très obeissant Serviteur

                                Le chr de la luzerne

                        TranslationSirPhiladelphia 15 March 89
                            Your Excellency will doubtless receive directly a State of affairs in Europe—I thought however that it
                                would be interesting to inform you of some particulars, which I am orderd not to make public but which will also be
                                communicated to Congress—The British Minister has hasten’d to conclude an eventual treaty of Peace with the United States
                                & to grant them in the utmost extent every advantage they could desire—The malevolence with which that Power
                                has carried on the War in America—did not forebode this extreme facility in them, & it has been an agreable
                                surprize to the Belligerant Powers & you will easily Judge Sir, that our Satisfaction has been complete in
                                seeing the great obstacle to peace put, as it were, on one Side.
                             We think we may hope that the Epocha of a Genl Peace is not far distant—however the English, tho’
                                disposed to come to a conclusion with the Courts of Versailles & Madrid seem much more difficult in the
                                negotiation carrying on with the States General—but the King, who thro’ the whole of this War has Refused to conclude
                                a peace without obtaining for his Allies a just and Reasonable Satisfaction, persists in these Sentiments & he
                                doubts not that the United States will on their part fulfill their Engagements by continuing the War till a
                                definitive Treaty is concluded & thereby entirely disconcert the projects of the English, who
                                flatter themselves that by means of the Eventual Treaty they have concluded they will be able to establish on the
                                Continent a Suspension of hostilities equal to a Truce—written & Signd.
                            It is possible that the firmness & resolution of His Majesty will determine England to make those
                                restitutions She Shews So much Repugnance to—but it is also possible that the War will continue another Year &
                                to put the United States in a situation to continue the War with Vigour. His Majesty has lent them Six Millions of
                                Livres. Six hundred thousand livres are arrived in the Washington, but I have learnt with much pain that Mr Morris has
                                thro want of means been forced to anticipate the pecuniary succours he hoped to Receive so that the Six Millions is
                                not so considerable a help as was to have been desired.
                            It rests to examine in what manner we can disturb & shut up the Enemy during next campaign—I
                                shall not take the liberty to Sound your Excellency on those points but I beg you to permit me to say that it will be
                                serving the common cause essentially to stop those excessive exportations of Subsistance to New York & in case
                                of an evacuation of that place, to prevent them as much as possible from procuring Subsistance & hence to carry on the
                                Campaign in the West Indies.
                            The Duc de Lauzun will confer with your Excellency on these points on his Return from the Eastward
                                & I beg you, Sir, to consider with him how to make the Legion Early useful It may be very usefully employed in
                                the service above mentiond & the Duke will be happy to act in any manner your Excellency may wish.
                            In all cases, it cannot but be of Service to hold ourselves in an hostile position: if the Negotiations
                                produce the happy Effects we wish I will lose no time in informing your Excellency—& knowing your humane
                                Disposition, I think I never shall anounce to you a more agreable event than a general Peace—honorable & Safe
                                to the Allies. you are convinced how sincerely the King wishes it, and the Sacrifices he has made to obtain it, will
                                prove this.
                            If the Treaty is communicated to you Sir—you will see that the King of England has reserved to himself
                                the liberty to conclude or not to conclude the Treaty of Peace with America, so that the Act signed the 30 November by
                                the respective Commissioners is merely conditional & eventual. I have the honor &c.


Title: To George Washington from William Duke Moore, 15 March 1783
From: Moore, William Duke
To: Washington, George

                            May it please your Excellency
                            Dublin 15th March 1783

                        As an Artist of the City of Dublin, I have made bold to employ my Talents in devising a Seal expressive of
                            your Excellency’s Superior Merit, as a General, and unparalelled Virtue, as a Statesman; and deliverer of your Country, on
                            which Account, your Excellency is so deservedly admired and revered, throughout Europe as well as America.
                        I have placed your Excellency in Front, Trampling on the late Enemy of your Country, Pointing to a Ship
                            Underway departing from the Coast, with your Face at the same time turned to your Army, expressing the Motto by Virtue
                            & Valour—I have presumed to take the liberty of requesting your Excellency will do me the Honour of Accepting it,
                            which will be presented by Capt. Bingham, and will lay me under an everlasting Obligation if your Excellency will
                            condecend to do me the Honour of Wearing it. I have the Honour to be with the greatest Deference
                            your Excellency’s devoted and very Humble Servant

                            William Duke Moore


Title: From George Washington to Horatio Gates, 15 March 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

                            Cantonment 15th March 1783

                        Agreeable to the Orders of the 11th instant, the Officers of the American Army being convened, His Excellency
                            the Commander in Chief was pleased to open the meeting with the following address to them on the subject of their being
                            called together which with some other papers were left for the consideration of the Assembly. The Honorable Major General
                            Gates being President.
                        (Here follows the Address.)
                        for address, see GW to the Officers of the Army, 15 March 1783.
                        His Excellency having withdrawn, on a motion, made by General Knox and seconded by General Putnam
                        Resolved,
                        That the unanimous thanks of the Officers of the Army be presented to His Excellency the Commander in Chief,
                            for his excellent address, and the communications he has been pleased to make to them, and to assure him that the Officers
                            reciprocate his affectionate expressions with the greatest Sincerity of which the human heart is capable.
                        The address from the Army to Congress, the Report of the Committee from the Army, and the Resolutions of
                            Congress of the 25th January being read.
                        On a motion by General Putnam, seconded by Genl Hand
                        Voted
                        That a Committee be appointed immediately to draw up some Resolutions, expressive of the business before us,
                            and to report in half an hour, that this Committee consist of one General, one Field Officer, and one Captain. That
                            General Knox, Colonel Brooks and Captain Howard compose the said Committee.
                        The Report of the Committee having been brought in and fully considered Resolved Unanimously That at the
                            commencement of the present War, the Officers of the American Army engaged in the service of their Country from the purest
                            love and attachment to the rights and liberties of human nature, which motives still exist in the highest degree: and that
                            no circumstances of distress or danger shall induce a conduct that may tend to sully the reputation and Glory of which
                            they have acquired at the price of their blood, and eight years faithful services.
                        Resolved Unanimously That the Army continue to have an unshaken confidence in the justice
                            of Congress and their Country, and are fully convinced that the representatives of America will not
                            disband or disperse the Army, untill their Accounts are liquidated. Balances accurately ascertained and adequate funds
                            established for Payment And in this arrangement the Officers expect that the half Pay or a commutation of it, should be
                            efficaciously comprehended.
                        Resolved Unanimously That His Excellency the Commander in Chief be requested to write to His Excellency the
                            President of Congress earnestly entreating the most speedy decision of that Honorable body upon the subjects of our late
                            address, that was forwarded by a Committee of the Army, some of whom are waiting upon Congress for the result. In the
                            alternative of Peace or War, this event would be highly satisfactory, and would produce immediate tranquility in the minds
                            of the Army: and prevent any further machinations of designing men to sow discord between the civil and Military powers of
                            the United States.
                        Resolved Unanimously That the Officers of the American Army view with abhorrence, and reject with disdain the
                            infamous propositions contained in a late anonymous address to the Officers of the Army, and resent with indignation the
                            secret attempts of some unknown persons to collect the Officers together in a manner totally subversive of all discipline
                            and good order.
                        Resolved Unanimously That the thanks of the Officers of the Army be given to the Committee who presented to
                            Congress the late address of the Army, for the wisdom and prudence with which they have conducted that business and that a
                            Copy of the proceedings of this day be transmitted by the President to Major General McDougall, and that he be requested
                            to continue his Solicitations at Congress untill the objects of his mission are accomplished.
                        The Meeting was then desolved.

                            Horatio Gates
                            Major Genl Presdt

                            Copy


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Arnold, 16 March 1783
From: Arnold, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            East Greenwich March 16th 1783

                        When I received my furlough of Your Excellency, it was my expectation that the Invalid Corps would, in the
                            course of the winter be either reduced or dissolved; Indeed the Secretary at War, in a conversation I had the honor to
                            have with him, suggested an Idea of that kind.
                        The time limited, in my furlough, for my return, which is the 23rd of April next, is fast approaching, and
                            after making the necessary provision for my family’s support in my absence, I shall find myself illy able to defray the
                            expences attendant on the preparations for so long an absence from it, with the additional expence of so long a journey as
                            that to camp—These considerations have impelled me to sollicit Your Excellency to lengthen the time for my return to a
                            more distant period.
                        I will only suggest to Your Excellency that in the course of my service with the regiment the last campaign,
                            no company was assigned to my particular command, nor is there an Officer in the Corps except myself who has experienced
                            the misfortune of the loss of a leg, & of course one, whose services, can, with less injury to the public, be
                            dispensed with, than Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant

                            Thomas Arnold
                            Captn Invalid Regt


Title: From George Washington to Elias Boudinot, 16 March 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Boudinot, Elias

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 16th March 1783

                        I have the Honor to inform your Excellency, for the satisfaction of Congress, that the Meeting of the
                            Officers, which was mentioned in my last, has been held Yesterday: and that it has terminated in a manner, which I had
                            reason to expect, from a knowledge of that good Sense & steady Patriotism of the Gentlemen of the Army, which, on
                            frequent Occasions, I have discovered.
                        The Report of the Meeting, with the other papers, which will be necessary to accompany it, I shall do myself
                            the Honor to transmit to Congress, as soon as they can possibly be prepared. With the highest Respect I have the Honor to
                            be Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & most humble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 16 March 1783
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Charles Town March 16th 1783.⅌

                        I have been honor’d with your Excellencys despatches of the 18th of December, and 29th of January.
                        I am made happy by your full approbation of my conduct and the Army under my command, during the Southern
                            operations. The evacuation of Charles Town, & the proposals of Peace, are matters highly interesting to this
                            Country, whose finances, and political arrangements, are in the most deplorable situation. Charles Town remains without a
                            platform, or a single cannon, for its defence. The subsistence of the Troops for sometime after the evacuation of this
                            place, depended on Military collections, but happily we have made a contract for their future subsistence. On this subject
                            I should feel easy, but for the critical situation, the Financeer writes me his Department is circumstanced. The States
                            have rejected the 5 ⅌ Cent duty Act generally, and few pay any thing into the Continental Treasury any other way. I wrote
                            a letter to this State, on the Subject, a few days past; stating some facts, respecting the discontents prevailing in the
                            Northern Army respecting pay, and what might be expected in this, to the Southward. I thought it my duty to warn the State
                            of what I apprehended; The impost Act, was rejected notwithstanding, and the Assembly offended. I will ever speak my
                            sentiments, and act with Candor. I wish to know the Nature and extent of the discontents prevailing in the Northern
                            Troops. Matters are represented here in dark Colours. The report spreads among our Troops, & threatens a
                            convulsion. I shall give you the best information on the subject in my power; but these things often come to a crisis from
                            accident, & indiscretion, before one expects it. I could wish to be fully inform’d respecting the temper of the
                            Northern Army it would enable me to counteract many aggravations here.
                        I have communicated to the Assembly your orders for marching the Troops to the Northward; but I am much at a
                            loss how to act in the matter, Your Excellency seems to leave a latitude of descretion, respecting the tranquility of
                            these States; but your comment upon a desultory, and predatory war, appears to be intended to limit my discretionary powers to matters of
                            serious invasion. We have none at present and yet there are parties, continually making inroads upon different sides of
                            both Georgia and South Carolina from St Augustine. If I put the Troops in motion, you mention, it leaves the Southern
                            States a prey to every invader. A small force in their present destracted state would overrun the Country, and Charles
                            Town may be repossessed at any time, by a few frigates, with a Regiment or two of Infantry. I would wish to follow your
                            intention. If I could conceive, you had a clear idea of the weakness, & distress of this Country, the Troops
                            should march immediately, but the prospects of peace, & the possibility of New York’s being evacuated if the war
                            should continue, induces me to wait untill the arrival of the next despatches. In the mean time I shall have every
                            preparation made for their marching as soon as may be. The Men are well clothed & pretty well disciplined. Some
                            few days before the arrival of your last letter, from an appearance of an invasion upon Georgia. I put the Virginia Troops
                            in motion for the protection of that quarter; and as their numbers are small, and will be of little consequence in the
                            siege, I shall not march them untill your further orders.
                        The People of this State, are much prejudiced against Congress & the Financeer. Those who came from
                            the Northward, think they have been amazingly neglected by both in their distresses. Their general disposition leads more
                            to an independance of Congressional connection than I could wish, or is for their peace or welfare. This State has
                            contributed, more than any other State, it is true, towards the Continental expense, but necessity obliged them. I wish all
                            the States could see how much the tranquility of each depended upon, giving effectual support to Congress. I have the
                            honor to be with great respect Your Excellency’s most obdt humble Servt

                            Nath. Green


Title: General Orders, 17 March 1783
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Monday March 17th 1783
                            Parole Northumberland
                            Countersigns Oporto, Picardy.

                        For the day tomorrow Major Gibbs. Brigd. Qr. Mr. 2d Massa. Brigd.
                        For duty the Hampshire Battalion.
                        The honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolve.
                        By the United States in Congress assembled February 21st 1783.
                        Whereas sundry officers in the Army of the United States have been taken from the Line to act in The
                            Department of the General Staff and are entitled to additional pay in consequence thereof.
                        Resolved, that it be, and hereby is recommended to the several states to whom such officers respectively
                            belong to adjust and discharge on account of the United States the deficiencies on the additional pay to which they are
                            entitled by the Resolutions of Congress in the same manner and to the same time they settle their acct. as officers in the
                            Line.


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

                            Dear Sir
                            Philadelphia March 17th 1783.

                        The Arrival of Capt. Barney in the Washington Packett, has afforded us, a large Budget of Intelligence
                            & opened a new Scene in this Western World.
                        I have endeavoured to discover if any of the confidential Servants of Congress, have made it a Business to
                            communicate freely to your Excellency the political State of our Affairs both at home & abroad, from time to time
                            as they have turned up.The necessity of this Knowledge to one in your Excellency’s responsible Situation, struck me as
                            essentially necessary; but to my mortification, I cannot convince myself of the Certainty of this Measure, but am rather
                            left in doubt.
                        Conscious of my own want of both Time & Talents for so important a business, nothing but the
                            necessity & usefulness of the work, could have tempted me to have troubled your Excellency with the essay at this
                            critical Period, when perhaps—unknown to me, some able Person is engaged daily for the purpose.
                        My present design therefore is, as an individual who has access to the Intelligence of Congress, and also the
                            benefit of some private, confidential Communications, to give your Excellency a short Compendium of the State of our
                            Affairs in Europe, that you may be possessed of Facts necessary for your Station—As I act in this Business, but as an
                            individual in a private Character, I shall combine the information obtained from the public dispatches, with that of
                            private intelligence but of undoubted Authority.
                        In the beginning of the last Spring the Court of London being reduced to very disagreeable Circumstances
                            occasioned as well by the State of her Finances, as by the Changes of, and divisions in her Ministry, made some very
                            distant movements to sound our Minister at Passy, relative to a separate Peace—Finding no incouragement on this Head,
                            small beginnings were soon ripened into a promising Appearance, by Englands authorizing Mr Grenville in due Form, to treat
                            with France &ca and giving instruction to Mr Oswald; a Gentleman of great candour Integrity & Abilities,
                            (as is asserted by two of our Commissioners) to treat with Dr Franklin—Great pains were taken to bring on negotiations in
                            Form, without farther express Powers with respect to America; our Commrs resolutely determined to oppose every attempt to
                            conduct the Business on a narrow Scale, tho’ Count de Vergennes thought they might safely proceed on these limited Powers;
                            however they refused to hearken to any formal propositions, or rather refused to make any proposition of an explicit
                            nature, untill the United States of America were expressly or implicitly acknowledged as independant States by Great
                            Brittain and considered as one of the Nations of the Earth.
                        In the Course of the Communications, our Commrs convinced the Court of Great Brittain (at least in
                            Appearance) of the great impolicy of their past Conduct, and of the absolute necessity they were under, of acting without
                            delay on a more enlarged Scale, and by the generosity & Candor of their Behaviour on this Occasion, to wipe away,
                            the almost indelible Stain, of british Cruelty & Barbarism from the American Mind—This produced a Commission to Mr
                            Fitzgerald, to negotiate with France &c. &c. and another to Mr Oswald, to treat with
                            america, wherein the Sovereignty & Independance of these united States are expressly acknowledged—Negotiations now
                            took place in more Earnest between the Commissioners, whatever might have been the designs & dispositions of the
                            Ministry of G.B.; as it clearly appears from our Ministers Letters that Mr Oswald acted merely on the principles of a love
                            of Peace, being neither a creature or dependant of the Ministry; and his honesty, candor & purity of Intentions,
                            soon produced such a union of Sentiment, that an accomodation appeared to be fast ripening toward perfection—The principle
                            points of discussion were, the Boundaries—The Fisheries—and the Tories—At first England appeared tenacious of the two first, but were speedily convinced of
                            their Error, and as to the last, it rather appeared to be held up merely to save their national honor—Here it is said by some, that the Court of France took the Alarm at our extensive Claims on every
                            Point, and began to fear lest the policy of England should grant to America too much—She see G. Britain heartily repenting
                            of her Folly, and all of a sudden putting about, and attempting to lay a Foundation for reconciliation with the United
                            States, by granting all her reasonable Demands, with an appearance of Generosity—The ample Share in the Fisheries and our
                            refusal to compensate or restore the Tories, gave her little Pleasure, and the extensive Claim of Territory pleased her
                            less—but when she saw the possibility of Success on the part of our Commissioners, it is alledged, that she unhappily
                            tarnished her Glory & Reputation, by secretly sending Emissaries to England in order to foment divisions and
                            promote suggestions of the unreasonableness of our propositions, and perswading that Court of the possibility of obtaining
                            concessions on the part of America, far more advantageous than what was insisted upon. The british Ministry taking the
                            advantage of these blunders by the Court of Versailles, instead of endeavouring to reduce the pretensions of America,
                            candidly (in Appearance) communicated this conduct of France to our Commissioners and thereby created a Jealousy in their
                            Minds agt that Court, as insidious & inimical—This perhaps might have too great an Effect, in alarming &
                            souring the Minds of our Comrs and it would not be unnatural to suppose, that it was greater than necessity dictated, when
                            we consider the interest the Court of London had in exaggerating on the Occasion—the whole issued in our Commissioners
                            signing the provisional Articles of Peace (a copy of which I shall endeavour to send herewith) without the Knowledge of
                            France, on the 30th Novr—and not till the next Day and after they were sent to the Court of London, were they announced to
                            Count De Vergennes, when he discovered great surprize, and covered his Chagrin by expressing his astonishment at our
                            having obtained such advantageous Terms—Our public dispatches give us no Acct of the Issue of the negotiations on the part
                            of the other belligerent Powers, except that some disputes had arose that delayed so desirable an Object, and suggesting
                            doubts of the Real desire of Great Brittain to do more than what was concluded with us, hoping to draw off the united
                            States from the War, by putting them in a Situation, which would leave them nothing to contend for—But by a very
                            confidential Letter from good, tho private Hands of a later Date it appears that the negotiations with France &
                            Spain have gone on, and on this Authority I may almost venture to say, that I believe the Terms are fully digested, if not
                            signed, between them—Spain insisted on the Cession of Gibraltar and offered to France, the spanish half of Hispaniola, if
                            she would obtain Gibraltar for her at the Expence of France—Count De Vergennes thereupon offered to England the Island of
                            Gaudalope in Exchange for that Rock, which was refused—She then added Dominica & the neutrality of St Vincents—As
                            this was the Ultimatum of France, it is supposed that it would be complied with.
                        Holland demands three things—a restoration of her captured Possessions—Compensations for Damages unjustly
                            sustained contrary to the Laws of Nations, and free navigation—a Comr is gone to Holland to settle these points, which are
                            too unimportant to cause much difficulty, so that I hope a general Peace is not far off—But I do not mean by this, that
                            there is so much certainty, as that any thing should be discontinued that is necessary for our defence—To be well prepared
                            for War, is the surest way to make peace—A great deal has been suggested about the insidious Character of the English
                            Minister, and that there is a great reason to fear, as some think, by granting America all that they have asked, the
                            People here will never consent to a war being continued, in which they have no Interest, and that therefore her scheme is
                            still to embarrass the definitive Treaty, especially as France will wish to prevent America from enjoying the Terms of the
                            provisional Treaty—This Jealousy might be plausible, was not England in a Situation too critical to sport with such
                            Important Matters—Her finances loudly call for an immediate Peace, being reduced (as her Commissioners acknowledged) to
                            the necessity of stopping the Interest due on the national Debt, to carry on the War another Campaign in Case a Peace
                            should not take Place. It is therefore on her real Interest, that I depend for the ratification of our Treaty &
                            the Completion of that with the other belligerent Powers in Case France is not so weak as to embarrass the Proceedings
                            from an idle Fear of America. Her Magnanimity, Generosity & Knowledge of her true Interests, have been so great
                            & conspicuous, that I should feel severely hurt, should she tarnish her Glory at the last Hour—This I cannot
                            believe, but will still hope for the best.
                        There has been great Harmony between our Commissioners thro’ out the Business—Mr Adams & Mr Laurens
                            have resigned their Employments, intending to return immediately to America. In the Washington came over, 600,000 Livres
                            in Cash, part of 6 Millions obtained of the Court of France, instead of 20 Million demanded.
                        Thus I have in a hurry, given your Excellency a general State of the foreign Negotiations—I have done it in
                            the most confidential manner, knowing to whom I write, and that the utmost Care will be taken to preserve the Facts
                            entirely to yourself—I have stated Facts, but dare not to hazard Opinions—As I write in my private Character, your
                            Excellency will not mention the Subject to me in your public dispatches.
                        I cannot help taking Notice, that the Ship Washington is the first american Vessel
                            which ever had an English Passport, signed by the Kings own Hand, and in which he certifies that she belongs to the United
                            States of America.
                        I need not mention to your Excellency the present embarrassed situation of Congress—Perhaps there has not
                            been a more critical, delicate & interesting Period during the war—Our Finances are in the most deplorable State,
                            and it will take a considerable Time, before they can be replenished.
                        Mr Morris (on whom every disinterested, intelligent Member of Congress, greatly relied) has resigned his
                            Office, unless Conditions are complied with, which tho’ reasonable in themselves, yet depend on very doubtful Events—Some difficulties of importance, attending the Etiquette of the Treaty in France (on which I may hereafter enlarge) give
                            us great uneasiness and add much to our perplexity.
                        The Situation of our Army, as stated in your Excellency’s Letter of last Wednesday, by no means lessens our
                            Anxiety & Mortification, especially as we have been for five or Six weeks past, most faithfully & honestly
                            engaged in laying a Foundation for their future Security, as well as making provision for a present Supply—More is not in
                            our power, and I fondly hope that in this last hour, they will not dishonor themselves, and forfeit that Glory which they
                            have supported with so much dignity to themselves & advantage to their Country—Violent Measures will certainly
                            tend to prevent the Success of those Endeavours, Congress have been so laboriously exerting, for their emolument &
                            Security—and however they may think that they are the only sufferers, yet they may be assured, that our Shoulders are not
                            free from the Burden—There is not a Man among them, who would envy us our Station, was he to be one week in Congress.
                        Mrs Boudinot & Miss Susan take this Opportunity of presenting their most affectionate Respects and
                            kindest Love & good wishes to Mrs Washington, whom they remember with the highest Sentiments of Esteem, in which
                            may I be permitted most cordially to Join those of mine. I have the honor to be with the most profound Respect, Your
                            Excellency’s Most Obedt & Afft. Hble Servt

                            Elias Boudinot

                            P.S. By some Conversation I have since had with the Minister of France, I find that the King his Master
                                is greatly offended with our Commissioners, for signing the provisional Treaty without a confidential communication
                                with his Minister.


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 17 March 1783
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Kingston 17th March 1783.

                        Inclosed I transmit your Excellency some Depositions which were taken on an Inquiry, I directed to be made
                            relative to a Controversy between Mr Archer and Capt. Pyatt—This Inquiry was had in consequence of your Excellencys
                            referring to me an Application from the Deputy Sherif of West Chester County who suggested that Captain Pyatt had escaped
                            from him, And I had intended if it had appeared that Capt. Pyatt had acted conformable to your Orders to have used my
                            Influence with Mr Archer and his Friends and doubt not but I should have been successful in effecting an Amicable
                            settlement of the Affair—From the Depositions however it appears that Capt. Pyatt cannot with respect to such Parts of his
                            Conduct as Mr Archer complains of justify himself under Your Orders and if Your Excellency should view this Evidence in
                            the same Light with me I flatter myself you will direct Capt. Pyatt to surrender himself in Custody of the Sheriff. I am
                            with the highest Respect & Esteem Your Excellencys Most Obedt Servt

                            Geo: Clinton

                     Enclosure

                                    9 February 1783

                            West Chester County ss: Personally appeared before me Joseph Osburn, Esquire one of the Justices of the
                                people in the County of West Chester, aforesaid John Archer Junior of full Age who being duly sworn upon the holy
                                Evangelists of the Almighty God Deposes and Says That on or about the twelfth day of December last past this
                                Deponent Obtained of Captain William Peat who then commanded on the lines in the County of West Chester at the Post of
                                Pines Bridge, Liberty to go to one Joseph Cornwells who lives about two miles below the said Bridge solely in order to
                                get some money then due to this Deponent, and William Green who Was in Company with this Deponent—That they, this
                                Deponent and the said William Green—went on their way until they came to one Bonkers a neighbour of his the said
                                Joseph Cornwells, who informed them that Mr Cornwell was at the Meeting House about one Mile below the Dwelling house
                                of him the said Joseph Cornwells on another Road, and that they went directly to the Meeting house, and having
                                finished their business with a son of Joseph Cornwells (as Joseph Cornwell himself was not there) they this Deponent
                                and the said William Green returned directly back towards Pines Bridge, and that on their return this Deponent was
                                Informed by one of the Inhabitants That Abraham Carpenter had brought a Cow below the lines some few days before, and
                                that he (the Inhabitant) believed he the said Abraham Carpenter had carried her down to New York or Morrissania with
                                Two Calves and Nine or ten Sheep—That in consiquence of this information this Deponent called upon Abraham Carpenter
                                who lives on the Road on which this Deponent went down and was returning—That this Deponent then asked him the said
                                Abraham Carpenter what had become of the Cow which he had brought down some few days before, to which Carpenter
                                Replied he had her yet—That this Deponent Told him the said Carpenter that he must get her, for she was a Prize as he
                                had drove her down contrary to a law of this State made and provided among other things to prevent more effectually
                                supplies to the Enemy—(Passed the twenty fourth of June in the year of our lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty)
                                And the Proclamation of his Excellency Governor Clinton published in consiquence of the said Law, to which the said
                                Abraham Carpenter replied that he thought it was very hard, as he was Ignorant of any such Law. That the said Abraham
                                Carpenter sent his son to bring the Cow up to him, which he did—Further This Deponent Says That when the Cow was
                                brought up this Deponent in Company with the said William Green took the Cow (and at the same time requested the said
                                Abraham Carpenter to come with them which he did) and brought the said Cow up to Pines Bridge—That upon their this
                                    Deponent with William Green and the said Abraham Carpenter coming to the
                                Bridge Captain William Peat ordered the Soldiers to take the Cow, and put her in the Yuard, and ordered this Deponent
                                and the said William Green to stay at his Quarters, upon which this Deponent asked him the said William Peat if he was
                                going to detain them there with the Cow; To which the said William Peat replied Yes until the next morning—That in the
                                course of the Conversation between them, the said William Peat admitted that the Cow was a Prize, but said that he
                                would have a share of her, or otherwise he would detain her—That this Deponent then requested liberty
                                to go home until the next Morning which was granted, when this Deponent returned according to his promise and brought
                                a recommendation from Israel Honeywell Esquire, and gave same to him the said William Peat, upon which he said he did
                                not dispute this Deponents Character, but would detain him until the Major came who he expected
                                that day—Further This Deponent says That he was put under Guard and much Abused—because he would not give up his Arms:
                                and was keept untill Eight or Nine OClock in the Evening and then released—That this Deponent Then again asked him the
                                said William Peat if he was not agoing to let him have the Cow, to which he again replied No, not unless he this
                                Deponent would alow a share for his Serjeant and the Three Men who had been out on a Patrole, and fell in with this
                                Deponent—about a mile below the Bridge; That this Deponent Told him he should not, as the Serjeant had not Assisted in
                                the bringing off the Cow, and that if the Cow was a Prize, she was to him this Deponent and the Said William Green who
                                was with him this Deponent, and that he wished to have her to carry before the Justice to have her condemned, to which
                                he replied it is very well—That this Deponent then went and got a Warrant for the Cow, and such person as should have
                                her in possession; That in consiquence thereof and the service of the warrant the Cow and the said William Peat was
                                brought before Joseph Orsburn Esquire one of the Justices of the peace for the County of West Chester aforesaid, and
                                the Cow delivered up to this Deponent by the Constable—Further this Deponent then took out a Warrant against the said
                                William Peat for Damages which was served when this Deponent was present, who as he was not then prepared for trial
                                requested a few days adjournment which was Granted That immediately thereupon the said William Peat went out of the
                                Door and Ordered a Guard to take this Deponent, And to Disarm and confine him which was done, so as to prevent his
                                appearing on the Warrant against him the said William Peat—That this Deponent then got surety for his this Deponents
                                appearing at the Quarters of the said William Peat one day before the day appointed for the Trial, and that he did
                                appear, when the said William Peat proposed for this Deponent to Settle the Matter with him the said William Peat To
                                which This Deponent replied he could not since he had been used so very Illy by him the said William Peat—upon which
                                the said William Peat told this Deponent That if he would settle or drop it, he this Deponent might go home,
                                otherwise he the said William Peat would put him under Guard; upon which this Deponent Asked him if he intended then
                                to put him this Deponent under Guard so as to prevent his attending on the Warrant, to which he replied Yes to be sure
                                I do; and then ordered this Deponent under Guard, upon his this Deponents telling him he might use his pleasure—That
                                he detained this Deponent Three days and thereby prevented this Deponent from Attending before the
                                Justice on the day appointed, and carried this Deponent with him under Guard when a relief came for him on the Lines,
                                until he got nearly out of the County of West Chester, and then ordered this Deponent to be dismissed—Further That
                                this Deponent and his Friends requested of him the said William Peat that he would Give this Deponent a Trial if he
                                had any thing to charge against him, which he refused; and to some replied that he would not
                                have a trial with such a damn Vassall,  this Deponent further & Says that he went below the
                                Lines on the permission of Captain William Peat and solely for the purpose of collecting his Debt
                                as foresaid, and not with a View of Plundering. And further this Deponent Says Not. Sworn this 9 day of
                                February 1783. before me
                             Joseph Osburn
                                Justice of Peace

                     Enclosure

                                    1 March 1783

                            West Chester County ss: Personally appeared before me Joseph Osburne Esquire one of the Justices of the
                                Peace of the People in the County of West Chester James Oakley of Full age who being duly sworn upon the holy
                                Evangelists of the Almighty God deposes and Says That on or about the Eleventh or twelfth of December last past This
                                Deponent made application to Captain William Peat who then Commanded at the Post at Pines Bridge on the Lines in the
                                County of West Chester for permission to go to Willetts Neck for the purpose of bringing off a Number of Fatt Oxen
                                belonging to Oliver DeLancey which he this Deponent had discovered some few Nights before, when he was down upon a
                                Verbal permission of him the said Captain William Peats, To which he the said Captain William Peat replied that he
                                could not grant it now consisting with his orders, which he at the same time produced to this Deponent, and which were
                                the orders of the Major who Commanded on the Lines aforesaid—To which this Deponent added That the Oxen were there,
                                and that they were worth bringing off and that for that reason he this Deponent wished for liberty to go and to have a
                                Covering Party likewise; To which he the said Captain William Peat again replied that he could not do it; but that at
                                the same time he said he would tell this Deponent what he could do That he could let this Deponent go under the Name
                                of detecting of Skinners, provided he could agree with Lieut. Read who he would order to go with the Scout as a
                                Covering Party, upon which This deponent went with him the said Captain William Peat to Lieut. Read, which this
                                Deponent Agreed with him the said Lieut. Read in the presence of Captain William Peat who also Assisted in the fixing
                                of the Quantum of the Premium, to go with a Covering party of Fifteen Men and a Guide upon the following Conditions
                                viz. That in case this Deponent should bring off Ten Oxen, this Deponent should pay unto him the said Lieut. Read Six
                                Pounds, and one Dollar to Each of the Soldiers, That in case this Deponent should bring off Fifteen Oxen he this
                                Deponent should pay unto him the said Lieut. Read Ten pounds, and one dollar to each of the Soldiers—Further This
                                Deponent Says That they this Deponent and Lieut. Read Agreed with and by the consent and in the presence of him the
                                said Captain William Peat, That he the said Lieut. Read should Take fifteen men as aforesaid with John Pine one of the
                                Guides of the Army, and then on duty with him the said Captain William Peat, and Go to Gilbert Pugsleys Bridge on the
                                Saw Mill River as a Covering party to this Deponent for the purpose of bringing off the Oxen as aforesaid upon the
                                Conditions aforerecited. This deponent with four Men set out, and went to Willetts Neck that night, and the said
                                Lieut. Read with the Men and John Pine as aforesaid Came on in the rear of this Deponent and his four men as far as
                                Gilbert Pugsleys Bridge as aforesaid where this Deponent found that the said Lieut. Read and his Men with John Pine
                                were Waiting—upon the return of this Deponent according to agreement. Further this Deponent Says That upon his this
                                Deponents coming to Willetts Neck he found the Oxen were gone, or at least he could not find them or learn where they
                                were removed too; but that this Deponent In his Search for them found four horses which he brought Off—Also further
                                this Deponent Says That upon his coming up to Pines Bridge he informed Captain William Peat That he had not found the
                                Oxen, but that he had got four horses, And that Altho he had not got the Oxen, Yet, as he had got four Horses he had
                                concluded to leave two of them for Lieut. Read and the party as a reward for their Service, upon which he the said
                                Captain William Peat Asked this Deponent whether they were going to Sell the other two remaining horses, to which this
                                Deponent Answered Yes, and on the Saturday following; upon which he again asked this Deponent whether it was necessary
                                that Lieut. Read should attend to which this Deponent Replied he might if he choose—Further that on the day of the
                                sale Captain William Peat and Lieut. Read Attended and Captain William Peat demanded of this Deponent a Share in the
                                two horses, for him the said Lieut. Read, and Entered into a dispute with this Deponent about the same, when this
                                Deponent told him it was none of his business, as he this Deponent agreed with Lieut. Read for the premium, and to
                                whom this Deponent was to pay the same by the bargain And futher this Deponent  Says Not

                                James Oakley

                                Sworn this 29 day of February 1783.
                                Before me Joseph Osburn Justice PeaceWest Chester County ss: Personally
                                    appeared before me Joseph Osburn Esquire one of the Justices of the peace of the People of the County aforesaid
                                    Eden Hunt of Full age who being duly Sworn upon the Holy Evangelists of the Almighty God Deposes and Says That he
                                    was present with James Oakley when he applied to Captain William Peat for leave to go to Willetts Neck as he above
                                    has Deposed, also when he agreed with Lt Read, and that this Deponent went with him the said James Oakley to
                                    Willetts Neck, and that to the best of this Deponents Memory the Contents of the above Deposition is A True State
                                    of the facts relative to  Transaction, and further this Deponent Saith Not.  Eden Hunt
                                Sworn before me this 12 day of January 1783

                                Joseph Osburn Justice of Peace

                                West Chester County ss: Personally appeared before me Joseph Osburn Esquire one of the Justices of
                                    the peace of the people of the County of West Chester aforesaid one John Pine of full age who being duly Sworn
                                    upon the Holy Evangelists of the Almighty God Deposes and Says That he was present on or about the Eleventh or
                                    twelfth of December last past when John Archer Junior applied to Captain William Peat who then commanded at the
                                         at Pines Bridge in the County aforesaid for Liberty to go to Joseph Cornwells and that he heard Captn William Peat give to him the said John Archer Junior
                                    liberty to go and to Return again as soon as he could—And further this Deponent says That he
                                    heard him the said Captain William Peat Say That he had offered to him the said John Archer Junior, who had
                                    Conferred upon Condition that he the said John Archer Junior would withdraw his suit
                                    against him the said William Peat—further this Deponent Says that he was acting as Guide to
                                    the Detachment of Troops under Command of him the said William Peat at or about the same time when James Oakley
                                    went with a party to Willetts Neck to bring off a Number of Oxen from Oliver DeLancey, and that he was  by Captain William Peat to go as a Guide with Lieut. Read who Commanded a party who were
                                    to go to Pugsleys Bridge as a Covering party to the same James Oakley, and that they did go, and this Deponent went
                                    with them as he was Commanded. And further this Deponent Says Not.

                                John Pine

                                Sworn this 11 day of February 1783
                                Before me Joseph Osburn Justice of peace.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Hamilton, 17 March 1783
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia March 17. 1783

                        I am duely honored with Your Excellency’s letter of the 4th and 12th instant—It is much to be regretted
                            though not to be wondered at, that steps of so inflammatory a tendency have been taken in the army—Your Excellency has in
                            my opinion acted wisely—The best way is ever not to attempt to stem a torrent but to divert it.
                        I am happy to find You coincide—in opinion with me on the conduct proper to be observed by yourself—I am
                            persuaded more and more it is that which is most consistent with your own reputation and the public safety.
                        Our affairs wear a most serious aspect as well foreign as domestic—Before this gets to hand Your Excellency
                            will probably have seen the provisional articles between Great Britain and these states—It might at first appearance be
                            concluded that these will be the prelude of a general peace, but there are strong reasons to doubt the truth of such a
                            conclusion—Obstacles may arise from different quarters, from the demands of Spain & Holland from the hope on
                            France of greater acquisitions in the East—and perhaps still more probably from the insincerity and duplicity of Lord
                            Shelburn whose politics founded in the peculiarity of his situation as well as in the character of the
                            man will be suspected of insidiousness—I am really apprehensive if peace does not take place, that the
                            negotiations will tend to sew distrusts among the allies and weaken the force of the common league. We
                            have I fear men among us and men in trust who have a hankering after British
                            connection. We have others whose confidence in France savours of credulity—The intrigues of the former and the
                            incautiousness of the latter may be both, though in different degrees, injurious to the American interests; and make it
                            difficult for prudent men to steer a proper course. There are delicate circumstances with respect to the late foreign
                            transactions which I am not at liberty to reveal; but which joined to our internal disorders follies & prejudices
                            make this country stand upon precarious ground.
                        Some use perhaps may be made of these ideas to induce moderation in the army—an opinion that their country
                            does not stand upon a secure footing will operate upon the patriotism of the officers against hazarding any domestic
                            commotions.
                        When I make these observatons I cannot forbear adding that if no excesses take place, I shall not be sorry
                            that ill-humours have appeared—I shall not regret importunity, if temperate, from the army.
                        There are good intentions in the Majority of Congress; but there is not Sufficient wisdom or decision—There
                            are dangerous prejudices in the particular states—opposed to those measures which alone can give stability &
                            prosperity to the Union—There is a fatal opposition to Continental views—Necessity alone can work a reform. But how apply
                            it and how keep it within salutary bounds?
                        I fear we have been contending for a shadow?
                        The affair of accounts I considered as having put on a satisfactory footing—The particular states have
                            been required to settle till the first of August and the Superintendent of Finance has been directed to take measures for
                            settling since that period—I shall immediately see him on the subject.
                        We have had Eight states and a half in favour of a commutation of the half pay for an average of ten years
                            purchase—that is five years full pay instead of half pay for life, which on a calculation of annuities is nearly an
                            equivalent. I hope this will now shortly take place.
                        We have made considerable progress in a plan to be recommended to the several states for funding all the
                            public debts including those of the army—which is certainly the only way to restore public credit and enable us to continue
                            the war; by borrowing abroad; if it should be necessary—to continue it.
                        I omitted mentioning to Your Excellency that from European intelligence, there is great
                            reason to believe at all events, peace or War, New York will be evacuated in
                            the Spring—It will be a pity if any domestic disturbances should change the plans
                            of the British Court. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obed.
                                Servt

                            P.S. Your Excellency mentions that it has been surmised the plan in agitation
                                was formed in Philadelphia—that combinations have been talked of
                            between the public creditors and the army and that members of Congress had incouraged the idea—This
                                is partly  true—I have myself urged in Congress the propriety of uniting the
                            influence of the public creditors The army as a part of them to prevail upon the states to
                                enter into their views. I have expressed the same sentiments out of doors,
                            several other members of Congress have done the same: the meaning however of all this was simply—that
                            Congress should adopt such a plan as would embrace the relief of all the public creditors including the
                            army; in order that the personal influence of some, the connections of others, and a sense of
                                justice to the army as well as the apprehension of ill consequences might form a
                            mass of influence in each state in favour of the measures of Congress. In this view as I mentioned
                                to Your Excellency in a former letter I thought the discontents of the army
                            might be turned to a good account—I am still of opinion that their earnest, but respectful applications
                            for redress will have a good effect—As to any combination of Force it would only be productive of the horrors of a
                            civil war, might end in the ruin of the Country & would certainly end in the ruin of the
                        army.


Title: To George Washington from Thomson Francis Mason, 17 March 1783
From: Mason, Thomson Francis
To: Washington, George

                            May it please your Excellency
                            Chappawamsic 17th March 1783

                        I take the Liberty of addressing You in favour of the Bearer Mr Lawrence Washington, second Son of that very
                            worthy Man Mr Lawrence Washington of Chetanque; the young Gentleman has been unluckily engaged in a Duel, (if self Defence
                            from the most injurious, and unprovoked Treatment can be called so,) with Mr Philip Alexander, Son of John Alexander of
                            the same Place, in which Mr Alexander deservedly fell, and hath since died of his Wound; and tho’ Mr Washington’s Conduct
                            upon this Occasion hath not only been strictly justifiable, but praiseworthy in every Instance. Yet such is the Weight and
                            Influence of the Relations of the deceased, in the County of King George, (as it now stands, upon the last Division,)
                            where the ReEncounter happened; that I have advised Mr Washington to keep out of the Way, till the first Fury of
                            Resentment, and affliction which attends recent Transactions of this Nature, is a little subsided; and then to surrender
                            himself and take his Tryal, which I am confident he may do with a Certainty of Acquittal, by the Middle of May, indeed as
                            the Conduct of the deceased was so exceedingly blameable, I think his warmest Friends will not expose his Memory so much,
                            as to prosecute Mr Washington when they have time to reflect cooly upon this affair.
                        The Request I have to make to your Excellency is, that your will permit Mr Washington to continue as a
                            Volunteer in the Army till that Period.
                        His Absence at this time is the more necessary, as the deceased’s Relations have allready prevailed upon the
                            Jury of Inquest to find it Murther, and are actually applying to the Executive, for a Hue and Cry to apprehend him. With
                            what Propriety, the inclosed State of Facts, which I have from under the Hands of several Gentle men of Character, who were
                            Eye Witnesses of the different Transactions, will evince.
                        Permit me now Sir to return you my warmest acknowledgments for your very great Kindness shewed to my Son
                            Stephens Thomson at the Seige of York; of which both my Son and Self retain the most grateful Sense.
                            The Success of that Siege, so glorious to your Excellency, gave none of your numerous Friends more unfeigned Pleasure,
                            than Your Excellency’s Most obedient and most obliged Humble Servant

                            Thomson Mason

                     Enclosure

                                    c.17 March 1783

                            State of the Case between Mr Laurence Washington Junr and Mr Philip Alexander. In June 1782 Mr Alexr at
                                the Home of Mr Rodham Mason in the presence of a large Company behav’d with Indecent rudeness to two very amiable
                                young Ladies the one Mr Washington’s Sister the other his first Cousin, and afterwards circulated several scandalous
                                Reports very much to the Prejudice of both the young Ladies Reputations which comeing to Mr Washington’s ears he
                                challeng’d Mr Philip Alexander who refused to fight him, but expressed such Concern for his very ill Behaviour and
                                made such Concessions and Acknowledgments as were deem’d a Sufficient Atonement and the matter was made up (but I
                                Presume Mr Alexr tho’ asham’d to justifie such Atrocious Behaviour from false Notions of Honour imagined his Reputation
                                had suffer’d from the Concessions he had made and now determined to push some other Occasion of
                                Quarrel with Mr Washington for) On Friday the 28th of Febry 1783 being accidentally in Company with Mr Washington and
                                several other young Gentlemen at Mr Townshand Dade’s, Mr Washington observ’d a Ring on the Finger of Mr Henry
                                Washington Son of Mr John Washington, ask’d him what young Lady it belong’d to, Mr Henry Washington replied it
                                belonged to his Sweetheart, upon which Mr Alexander said that none but a Fool wou’d ask such a Question, some time
                                after Doctr Gibn Stewart told Mr Lawrence Washington that he heard he was going to Court Miss Hooe to which Mr
                                Alexander again answerd that Mr Gervard Hooe wou’d not suffer such a damn’d Fool to court his daughter some warm
                                words passed between them upon this, but blew over and afterwards the Company got into a Trip and go Dance Mr
                                Alexander tripped up Mr Laurence Washington’s Heels twice and then declar’d he cou’d throw any man in the Room and
                                whip him afterwards except Doctr Stewart and Mr Townd Dade then introduced a wrestle between the two and Mr Alexr
                                threw him twice and then called him a Damn’d Son of a Bitch and said he cou’d whip him any way he chose to mention to
                                which Mr Washington reply’d look at my left Arm the Shoulder of which was out of Place, I cannot fight you with my
                                Feet, but I will fight you with Pistols to which Mr Alexr replied you are too damn’d a Coward to fight my way, Doctr
                                Stewart the now Prosecutor told them he had a pair of Pistols if he cou’d get a Boy he wou’d send for them and they
                                might fight it out in the Yard Mr. Alexr Mr Washington offerd to go himself for the 99 1/2 Pistols if they
                                wou’d lend him a Horse Mr Alexr again called him a damn’d Coward and after some Altercation struck him, a Battle
                                ensued and Mr Alexr beat him very severely, they were parted after which Mr Washington hinted that he shou’d Challenge
                                him upon which Mr Alexr siezed him by the Hair—dragged him out of Mr Dade’s Room and beat him again most unmercifully
                                the next day being Saturday Mr Washington wrote the Challenge No. 1 to which Mr Alexr return’d the Ansr No. 2. on
                                Monday Mr Alexr wrote a second Letter No. 3. On Tuesday there was a Cockfight in the Neighbourhood at which both
                                Gentlemen appear’d in loose great Coats over their other Cloaths Mr Washington touched Mr Alexr upon the Shoulder and
                                told him he desir’d to speak with him in private Mr Alexr was observ’d immediately to put his Hand in his Breeches
                                Pocket they walk’d from the Company Side by Side about ten steps they stopped a short time and they walk’d five steps
                                further Mr Alexr with his Hand still in his Breeches pocket suddenly turn’d round with his face to
                                the Company drew out a Pocket pistol and fir’d it at Mr Washington’s face within Eighteen Inches so near as to burn
                                his Face with the Powder Mr Washington then cocked a Horseman’s Pistol and fir’d at Mr Alexr who attempted to draw a
                                Sword which was likewise under his great Coat but fell with his Sword half drawn a Horseman’s pistol in his Belt under
                                his great Coat and the Pocket pistol which he had discharged lying by his Side Mr Washington had
                                one Horseman’s pistol in his Belt under his great Coat and the one he had discharged in his Hand it is agreed by all
                                the Byestanders that Mr Alexr fir’d first several say before Mr Washington cocked his Pistol and
                                some before he drew it out Mr Alexr being ask’d how it was possible for him to Miss Mr Washington at so short a
                                Distance he said that he fir’d at his Mouth and the damn’d Coward dodg’d the only Circumstance against Mr Washington
                                is that being met by a man on Saturday morning who observ’d him to be very much beaten enquir’d who had been pinking
                                him he answer’d he suppose’d he had heard but he wou’d have his bones for it—and this I think trifling as it happen’d
                                the next morning after the beating with which he was then sore and before his Resentment cou’d be reasonably be
                                expected to cool as indeed did the Rencounter itself after recieving the irritative and threatening Letter of Monday
                                Mark’d No. 3.

                                No.1
                                Sir,
                                The Bearer Mr Stewart, who I have chosen as my second, will hand you this, I am first to inform you,
                                    that your behaviour to me the other night at Mr T: Dade’s was so ungentlemanly, that I cannot pass over it
                                    unnoticed, altho’ you fearing a challenge wou’d insue declared you would not accept of one from me, alledging for
                                    your reason, that you were a married man Man; which is an excuse, so frivolous that none but cowards of the first
                                    magnitude make use of in which class, believe me Sir, I rank you, as you knew I was not nor am not, a match for you
                                    in the bruiseing way wherein your excellency lays, I do now declare to you upon my honour that if you do not meet
                                    me at the oak at the mouth of Mr John Washington’s lane in the low grounds at eight Oclock tomorrow arm’d, I shall
                                    immediately put a copy of this in the Public Papers, that the impartial world may be satisfied as to my conduct,
                                    which no doubt you will be very industrious to asperse.

                                Laur. Washington

                                No. 2
                                Sir,
                                When insulted by an inferior in every respect I shall always treat him with the same contempt that I
                                    treated you with the other night I find that I live for some other purpose than to be risking my life with every
                                    fellow as for cowarddise I believe you to be as dam’d a one as ever existed and shall always treat you as
                                such.

                                P: T: Alexander

                                No. 3
                                When I reciev’d your performance of yesterday morning I was just going from home & did not
                                    consider its real merits I do well remember that you hinted at a challenge the other night, after your flaging
                                    & as well remember my teling you that I should not risque my life so unequally. however you cant nor shall
                                    not forget that it was propos’d by some person then present that we should meet that night at twelve Oclock, you
                                    had my consent, but yours could not be obtain’d, believe me, I never shall be afraid of being stigmatised for
                                    cowardice by Laurence Washington tho’ you may be so silly. Yet the world cant be imposed on, so far, as to allow
                                    you any credit for challenging a man, who had told you he would not accept one from you I knew every man of sence
                                    will applaud me for not meeting you—Though realy I dont believe were you let alone to yourself that you could
                                    summon up fortitude enough to discharge your piece—Whenever and wherever we meet I shall always be ready to defend
                                    myself against your feable efforts and chastize you properly

                                Philip Thom: Alexander


Title: To George Washington from Rufus Putnam, 17 March 1783
From: Putnam, Rufus
To: Washington, George

                        Sir
                            Massachusetts Huts March 17th 1783.

                        By the papers herewith enclos’d your Excellency will be informed of Captain Silvanus Smith’s application to
                            be recommended for one of the vacant Majorities in the Massachusetts Line—And also Captain Burnham’s, and others,
                            objections thereto, as Captain Burnham is very desirous, and Captain Smith has no objection, I beg leave to request, that,
                            the relative rank of the Massachusetts Captains may be once more revised, so far as relates to Captain Silvanus Smith,
                            and Captain Burnham with such others as are concerned in the premises, or that I may receive such commands concerning
                            Captain Smiths promotion as your Excellency may think proper. I have the Honor to be—Your Excellency’s Obedt Servt

                            R. Putnam B. Genl

                     Enclosure

                                sir
                                 March 12th 1783

                            In Consequence of the late promotions in the Massachusetts line, I find vacancies for two Captains to be
                                promoted to Majors—As the second Captain in the line I claim one of these Vacancies as my right, and you as senior
                                Officer Sir, I am sensible are ever ready to do Justice to those subordinate under you—As there appears a doubt in the
                                minds of some of my brother officers, respecting my right to fill the Vacancy, I wish you to postpone sending for my
                                Brevett ‘till next saturday morning, which time will be sufficient for any gentleman to give in a protest to my
                                claim—If by that time nothing interferes, I wish you to send to the Governor of the State for my Brevett, not only for
                                my sake, but for the sake of those whose promotion cannot take place, till my matter is brought to a final
                                determination. I am sir Your Obedient Servt

                                Silvs Smith Capt.

                     Enclosure

                                Sir,
                                Cantonment March 14th 1783

                            It is with reluctance we feel ourselves under the necessity of troubling you with an Instrument of this
                                nature, but while motives the most feeling urge our solicitations, we doubt not but you will hear us with that candour
                                & attention which the nature of our request may require.
                            As there now appears to be a vacancy for a Major subsisting in the line of Massachusetts, it is equally
                                obvious that Captain Sylvanus Smith stands first for promotion on the list of Captains, as settled by a board of
                                Officers appointed to revise & determine their relative ranks in the line; We are fully convinc’d that the
                                board were not made fully acquainted, with the Circumstances of Capt. Smiths appointment, or they would not have plac’d him so
                                far above these whose pretentions are similar to his own—We humbly conceive that incontestable evidence can be educ’d
                                to prove Capt. Smiths Commission antidated, by which he now holds his rank in the line, if this be the case! we are
                                induc’d to believe it a violation of that system which has been establish’d to-determine the rank of the Army; We have
                                therefore only to request Capt. Smith may not be appointed to the vacancy now subsisting in the line untill this may
                                be laid before the Commander in Chief, with a request to have a board of Officers appointed, before whom the matter
                                may be fully & fairly Investigated. We have the honor to be Sir, your Obed. Servants

                                John Burnam Capt. light Infy 8th Regt
                                Nathl Cushing Capt. 1st M. Regt
                                A. Coburn Captain, 7th Massets Regt
                                Amos Cogswell Captn the 8th Massts Regt
                                Joshua Benson Capt.


Title: To George Washington from John Tayloe Wormeley, 17 March 1783
From: Wormeley, John Tayloe
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            New York 17th March 1783

                        I beg your Excellencys acceptance of my warmest thanks for the condescension of answering my Letter and
                            pointing out a mode I ought to adopt for the accomplishment of my wishes.
                        I have taken the liberty of enclosing a Letter to the Governor of Virginia, agreeable to the hint your
                            goodness gave me, and hope the sanction of your approbation will be the happy means of procuring me the promission I so
                            ardently desire. I have the honor to be with every grateful sensation your Excellencys most Oblig’d Humble Servant

                            John Wormeley


Title: To George Washington from William Greene, 18 March 1783
From: Greene, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            State Rhode Island &a 18th March 1783.

                        I had the honor of receiving your Excellency’s letter respecting the filling up this States Regiment, which I
                            have laid before the General Assembly of this State, who have requested me to inform you, that should the War continue to
                            be carryed on with such Vigor as to make it necessary they will be ready at all times to use their utmost exertions to
                            comply with your request. I am very respectfully your Excellency’s obedient & very Humble Servt

                            W. Greene


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Jones, 18 March 1783
From: Washington, George
To: Jones, Joseph

                            Newburgh 18th March 1783

                        The Storm, which seemed to be gathering with unfavourable prognostics—when I wrote to you last—is dispersed;
                            and we are again in a state of tranquility—But do not, my dear Sir, suffer this appearance of tranquility to relax your
                            endeavours to bring the requests of the Army to a conclusion. Believe me, the Officers are too much pressed by their
                            present wants, & are rendered too sore by the recollection of their past sufferings to be touched much longer upon
                            the string of forbearance, in matters wherein they can see no cause for delay—Nor would I have further reliance placed on
                            any influence of mine to dispel other clouds if more should arise from the causes of the last.
                        By my Official letter to Congress, and the papers inclosed in it, you will have a full view of my assurances
                            to, and the expectations of the Army; and I perswade myself that the well wishers to both, and of their Country, will exert
                            themselves to the utmost to irradicate the Seeds of distrust, & give every Satisfaction that justice requires, and
                            the means which Congress possess will enable them to do.
                        In a former letter I observed to you, that a liquidation of Accts in order that the Ballances might be
                            ascertained is the great object of the Army, and certainly nothing can be more reasonable. To have these Ballances
                            discharged at this, or in any short period—however desireable, they know is impracticable—and do not expect it; altho’, in
                            the meantime, they must labour under the pressure of those sufferings which is felt more sensibly by a comparison of
                            circumstances.
                        The situation of these Gentlemen merit the attention of every thinking and grateful mind. As Officers, they
                            have been obliged to dress & appear in character. to effect this, they have been obliged to anticipate their pay, or participate their Estates. By the first, debts have been
                            contracted—By the latter, their Patrimony is injured. To disband Men therefore under these circumstances, before their
                            Accounts are liquidated, and the Ballances ascertained, would be to sett open the doors of Goals, and then to close them
                            upon Seven years faithful & painful services. Under any circumstances which the nature of the case will admit,
                            they must be considerable sufferers; because necessity will compell them to part with their certificates for whatever they
                            will fetch, to avoid the evil I have mentioned above. And how much this will place them in the hand of
                            unfeeling—avaricious speculators, a recurrence to past experience will sufficiently prove.
                        It may be said by those who have no disposition to compensate the Services of the Army, that the Officers
                            have more foresight than to place dependence (in any alternative) upon the strength of their own Arm—I will readily
                            concede to these Gentlemen that no good could result from such an attempt, but I hope they will be equally candid in
                            acknowledging, that much mischief may flow from it—and that nothing is too extravagent, to expect from Men, who conceive
                            they are ungratefully & unjustly dealt by. especially too, if they can suppose that characters are not wanting to
                            foment every passion which leads to discord—and that there are  but,  time shall reveal the rest.
                        Let it suffice, that the very attempt would imply a want of justice, and fix an indelible stain upon our
                            national character; as the whole World—as well from the Enemies publications (without any intention to serve us) as our
                            own, must be strongly impressed with the sufferings of this Army from hunger, cold and nakedness in almost every stage of
                            the War.