Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 2 April 1782
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Philadelphia April 2 1782

                        By the latest accounts from the West Indies there is the highest probability that the French will have a
                            decided naval superiority the Ensuing Campaign To detain their whole fleet on that Station in the hurricane months would
                            be placing a great part of the marine of France in a situation too hazarduous, while the will being of that Nation depends
                            so much on it’s safety—That it will return home, I can hardly suppose unless there should be some very material
                            alterations in the arrangements of Europe—So that on the whole I think it most probable they will be ordered to visit the
                            continent—To this they likewise will be encouraged by the successes of the last year—The probability of this event is in
                            my opinion so strong that I am confident we shall be justified to form our plans on these ideas—these matters cannot be
                            reduced to a certainty; but the present prospect is such as should induce preparation.
                        Whether Charlestown or Newyork should be the object of the next Campaign is the first inquiry and must be
                            determined previous to any considerable preparations.
                        That New York should be the object, if we are equal to the task, will not, I think, be denied—for if the
                            capital post falls all dependent ones must soon follow—To take up this matter so as to elucidate the question, will
                            require a consideration of the enemys strength, and that it be compared with our numbers and supplies—I lay it down as
                            necessary in this case that besiegers must exceed the besieged as three to one at least—Suppose that the enemy have
                            seven thousand men now in New York and that they will call in their southern posts, S. Carolina and Georgia—they will
                            then amount to about twelve thousand to oppose which will require thirty six thousand—How this number is to be brought
                            into the field is the next inquiry—I think under the present appearances no reinforcements East of Virginia should be
                            sent to General Green, for, with all the aid we can give him he cannot act offensively against Charlestown without a
                            marine and a proper train of artillery and ordnance stores, neither of which can be expected if we operate against New
                            York.
                        I can have no doubt but with the present force now in the southern States, and with the continental troops
                            and Militia, which may be called to the aid of General Green, he will prevent the enemy from making any excursions into
                            the country—so that we may depend upon the tecruits of Maryland, Delaware & Pennsylvania to be added to the main army—If the enemy should leave Charlestown none will be needed Except of Virginia.
                        The several States should be called on in time if their battalions are not full, to draught men to compleat
                            them to the first of December.

                                Then would our estimates stand thus

                                2
                                New Hampshire
                                1224

                                11
                                Massachusetts
                                6732

                                6
                                Connecticut
                                612

                                1
                                Rhode Island
                                3672

                                3
                                New york
                                1836

                                2
                                Jersey
                                1224

                                1
                                Hazens Regiment
                                400

                                6
                                Pennsylvania
                                3672

                                5
                                Maryland & Delaware
                                3060

                                French Troops
                                4500
                            I think we may expect three thousand troops with the French fleet—the marines themselves, should there be
                            no other, will amount t3000MilitiaNew Hampshire340Massachusetts1870Rhode Island170Connecticut1020New York500Jersey400Pennsylvania1100Maryland & Delaware
                                     800

                                    36,132

                        I cannot think it would be very difficult to obtain the number of men here estimated—There can be no doubt
                            respecting their supplies, or of our ability fully to equip them.
                        The next matter to be considered is whether we have a sufficient train of Artillery and a quantity of
                            Ordnance sStores equal to the attempt against New York—I think tho we have not the most ample supply yet we have such an
                            one as will justify the attempt especially when we consider that we shall draw large supplies from the French troops and
                            upon a pressing occasion we may be furnished from the Shipping.
                        However that your Excelly may have before you the fullest evidence on which to determine I herewith
                            return the ordnance and ordnance Stores—which can be supplied you by the united States and brought to a point before New
                            York.

                                13
                                inch Mortars
                                9

                                10
                                inch Ditto
                                20

                                8
                                inch Howitzers & Mortars
                                16

                                5 1/2
                                Royalls
                                17

                                5 1/2
                                Inch Howitzers
                                11

                                4 2/5
                                Mortars
                                15

                                24
                                pounders
                                12

                                18
                                pounders
                                50

                                12
                                pounders
                                30

                                Shells

                                13
                                inch Shells
                                3203

                                16
                                inch Do
                                19977

                                8
                                inch Do
                                11651

                                5 1/2
                                inch Do
                                8098

                                4 2/5
                                inch Do
                                318

                                Ball

                                24
                                pd Ball
                                17584

                                18
                                pd Do
                                34577

                                12
                                pd Do
                                26499

                                Powder

                                6500 barrels besides a great quantity might be procured from the several States.

                        As I think we shall have it in our power to attempt New York in case of the arrival of a superior French
                            fleet I shall not make any remarks on an expedition against So. Carolina—Your Excellency is possessed of my ideas of
                            it’s impracticability without the aid of a marine.
                        I am not acquainted with New York nor with the neighbouring Islands—Our army in the year 1776 returned from
                            that City before I joined it I therefore dare not venture an opinion respecting the particular mode which should be
                            adopted in approaching the enemy—your Excellency will excuse my silence on this head.
                        If a naval superiority should not arrive in these Seas the approaching Campaign—can an offensive operation
                            be attempted against Canada with rational hopes of success without the aid of the marine of France? And; should an
                            attempt be crowned with success, can we, without that assistance, secure the acquisition? To answer these questions with
                            any degree of clearness it will be necessary to discuss many points, and in some sort go into detail.
                        Suppose the enemy’s force in Canada to be three thousand regular troops—and that they may probably call
                            together two or three thousand Canadians and Indians—If this estimate is just ten or twelve thousand men should be
                            thrown into the country to oppose them—and as we shall have to combat troops covered by regular, advantageously situated
                            and well built fortresses (the expence of reducing one of which was fully known the last war, between France & Britain)
                            there will exist an absolute necessity of carrying forward the following pieces of ordnance and ordnance stores—The
                            weight of which I have ascertained as transportation will be a very important object.

                                Ordnance

                                lb

                                3
                                13 Inch Brass mortars
                                weigg
                                2100
                                6,300

                                15
                                10 Inch Do

                                800
                                12,000

                                10
                                8 inch Howitzers

                                1100
                                11,000

                                20
                                5 1/2 Royals

                                170
                                3,400

                                10
                                24 pound non cannon

                                4200
                                42,000

                                30
                                18 pounders Do

                                3800
                                114000

                                10
                                12 pounders

                                2000
                                20,000
                            208,700

                                Ordnance Stores

                                450
                                13 inch Shells

                                184
                                82,800

                                7500
                                10 inch Do

                                80
                                600,000

                                6200
                                8 inch Do

                                45
                                279000

                                10,000
                                5 1/2 Do

                                15
                                150,000

                                10,000
                                Shot

                                24
                                240,000

                                30,000
                                Do

                                18
                                540,000

                                12,000
                                Do

                                12
                                144,000

                                Carriages

                                3
                                Beds for 13 inch morters

                                1000
                                3,000

                                15
                                do for 10 inch Do

                                600

                                     9,000

                                20
                                do for 5 1/2 inch Royalls

                                84
                                1,680

                                10
                                carriages for 8 inch Howitz

                                1100
                                11,000

                                10
                                Ditto for 24 pound cannon

                                2000
                                20,000

                                30
                                Ditto for 18 pd Do

                                1500
                                45,000

                                10
                                Ditto for 12 pd

                                900
                                9,000

                                Gun Powder

                                To Charge

                                13 inch morters
                                450 times
                                8 lb each
                                3,600

                                10 inch Do
                                7500
                                3 1/2
                                26,250

                                8 inch Howitz
                                6200
                                2
                                12,400

                                5 1/2 inch Royalls
                                10,000
                                10 ounces
                                6,250

                                24 pound battering cannon
                                10,000
                                12
                                120,000
                            18 pound Do30,0009270,00012 pound Do12,000672,000

                                To charge

                                13 inch
                                Shells
                                450
                                9
                                4,000

                                10 Iinch
                                Do
                                7500
                                3 1/2
                                26,250

                                8 inch
                                Do
                                6200
                                2 1/2
                                15,500

                                5 1/2
                                Do
                                10,000
                                14 ounces

                                     8,750

                                2908,230

                                Equal to
                                1454 Tons

                                Baggage field artillery Quarter masters stores

                                Commissary & Hospital

                                     270

                                Tons
                                1724

                        Estimating three quarters of a ton as a load the Numbers of Waggons required would be 2,299.
                        As the enemy have possession of Lake Champlain and the river St Lawrence, and will by means of their Shipping
                            have it in their power to retain the command of them—Our movements into Canada must be up Connecticut river to the
                            lower Co-os, thence through Hazen rout so called to St Johns, and down the river from Montreal either on the east or
                            west side.
                        If my estimates are right, (I suppose them short,) the artillery, artillery stores, and the baggage of the army
                            will require 2299 teams supposing each team to carry fifteen hundred and their own forage which must be for Eight or ten
                            days when you leave Co-os—besides we must estimate twenty days of Flour at least, supposing it shall be found that there
                            is a plenty in the country when we reach it—For part of this supply must be expended on the march—This will require one
                            hundred teams more besides the men can carry, those teams will consume 2399 Bushell of Grain and thirty tons of hay or
                            grass equivalent each day—I think it would be difficult, if not impossible, to collect the teams—and equally so, in the
                            Coos country, to procure the forage for them, and the riding Horses necessary for the expedition—(It may be said that
                            the whole need not be sent on at once if it can be omitted with safety the difficulties in this point will be lessened)—besides, were not those difficulties opposed to us, there is one obstacle which in my opinion is insurmountable, that of
                            removing the heavy cannon and stores through a new road, which, unless it should be cause-wayed, would be impassable, and to
                            render it so would occupy more time than could be spared from the expedition—I may add here one difficulty more, namely,
                            that an expedition of this nature will create an expence far beyond the ability of our finances, in their present low
                            state, to support.
                        If the difficulties mentioned cannot be obviated—and an attempt on Canada should be deemed
                            impracticable in the mode I have pointed out—can the object be effected with facility in any other way, which would be
                            less expensive, and promise equal certainty of success, thoug longer in its operation? I know but one other expedient,
                            and that would only effect a partial conquest of the country—which is to throw a body of troops into Canada unencumbred
                            with heavy artillery to take possession of it, secure the magazines, and cut off future supplies from the Garrisons of St
                            Johns and Fort Wm Augustus near the mouth of Lake ontario—these and Quebec are the posts to which I suppose the enemy
                            would retire on your entering the country with a superior force—their supplies could not be cutt off but by a close
                            investiture of their several works—this might be effected with respect to the two latter as the rivers on which they
                            stand are narrow and may with ease be commanded.
                        But Quebec cannot be invested without the co-operation of a fleet, and an attempt to reduce it without a
                            marine force would be precarious and hazardous—for while the St Lawrence remained navigable succours might arrive which
                            passing the town would fall into the rear of your army and endanger it’s safety.
                        Although I consider the entire reduction of Canada unless aided by a superior marine force, as a task the
                            accomplishment of which is too arduous for us to attempt under our present circumstances—yet I think our possessing
                            our selves of Montreal, and the country above it would be fully within our power, provided the expedition could be
                            conducted with secrecy and dispatch; otherwise while the enemy remain masters at Sea they may reinforce so early as to
                            give security to the country and disappoint our views.
                        Whether the attempt of a partial conquest of Canada would avail us at this time I much doubt—on the whole
                            I think it would not—for, if we could not support our selves at Ticonderoga, how shall we do it in the heart of the
                            enemy’s country, with all the advantages they will enjoy from having the metropolis in their possession & being masters
                            of the rivers. If the reduction of Canada should be deemed a task too arduous for us to attempt in the present State of
                            our force and finance compared with the enemys situation—may not the possessing our selves of Detroit and Niagara be
                            undertaken? If any essential and permanent good is expected from the reduction of Detroit, it must arise from a
                            maintenance of the post, securing the friendship of the Indians and entering into a trade with them, without this, and
                            frequent presents no dependence should be placed, or can be had on their professions.
                        Should the idea of besieging New York be relinquished—I suppose a force might be sent equal to the reduction
                            of Detroit though this could not be effected without infinite labor and expence, as the army must travel through a very
                            new country upwards of three hundred miles abounding in hill Swamps and rivers (as your Excellency well knows) to
                            render which passable with artillery, would consume a considerable time—But the maintaining of the post should we reduce
                            it will be the greatest difficulty, it must be supplied from fort Pitt, and Block houses erected to preserve the
                            communication with that place—and give security to our escorts—But whether this would effectually secure them from
                            insult I much doubt as the enemy would be enabled by the Guns & force from their shipping to besiege any of them, and
                            should a few of them, as most probably they would, be reduced the loss of detroit itself, if possessed by us, would be
                            consequent from the interruption of our convoys—To these evils should we be exposed while the enemy possessed the Lakes
                            and enjoyed a free communication with Quebec were the Indians on the best terms, which we can hardly expect while the
                            British are masters of the Lakes, and can with so much more facility supply goods and provisions—and so far exceed us in
                            presents—Advantages to our trade and the security of our frontiers are the principal objects which would induce an
                            attempt against the fort and Garrison of detriot, and these cannot be obtained without the friendship of the Indians, and
                            full possession of Lake Eri.
                        Niagara being much more contiguous to our settlements and having water communications for a considerable
                            distance beyond the settlements—would better admit of an attempt to reduce it—By commanding Lake Ontario we should
                            incur very little land carriage, and we could, with safety, transport our troops to the west end of it—But while the
                            enemy preserve the command of it and a communication with the river St Lawrence they will prevent our gaining it, as they
                            can increase their number of Shipping as fast as we can ours.
                        To attempt Niagara by land by passing from the Mohawk along the south side of the lake would be difficult—I
                            am informed that the mountains and Vallies are impassable without great Labour—Inded if we could surmount these
                            difficulties and possess our selves of the fort—are we in a situation to keep it and to open such a trade with the
                            Indians as would secure them in our interest? I much suspect we are not—Why did we retire from Fort Schuyler if it did
                            not arise from our inability to maintain a post there? Your Excellency is however possessed of more facts than I have
                            been able to obtain with respect to these posts, and can better determine whether either or both of them may be attacked
                            with a probability of success and that the advantages may be afterwards secured.
                        On the whole, if neither New York or Charlestown should occupy our attention, I do not see any other
                            offensive operation which will avail us without a marine, saving that of sending a number of light troops into the heart
                            of the enemy country to fight the Indians on their own ground, and in their own way—this has heretofore broken up
                            their settlements and they have not again occupied the same country—Their mode is to establish themselves at a greater
                            distance as being more secure.
                        It is said that the shipping on the lakes Ontario and Erie might be taken by small detachments of resolute
                            troops who could move with secrecy and dispatch—for the Vessels in those Lakes are poorly manned, and, from an idea of
                            perfect security, but negligintly guarded—under these circumstances, should a few flat bottomed boats, which may be
                            readily procured there, push off from the shore and possess themselves of one of the large vessels, the others must fall
                            of course—The loss of the forts must be consequent on the loss of the command of the Lakes—for all the stores and
                            provisions are brought from Canada through these Lakes—And although the enemy have but a small garrison at Detroit, yet in
                            the year 1779 there were issued at that post six thousand rations a day—most of it to the Indians. The expediency of
                            this can be better ascertained by those who are acquainted with the Lakes and knowledge of the force on them is more
                            perfect than mine—the suggestion appeared to me necessary.
                        I am sensible, my dear sir, that I have represented every movement into Canada as attended with peculiar
                            difficulties—I have given my reasons for those representations—this I have done that your Excellency might clearly see on
                            what Grounds I founded my Judgment—If the objections which I have made, do not exist or the reasons offered are not
                            conclusive, they will have no weight in your mind—If other wise, and a single hint in this letter, thus protracted, should
                            be of use, I shall be amply rewarded. I have the honor to be with perfect esteem your Excellencys Most obedient servant

                            B. Lincoln


Title: From George Washington to Matthias Ogden, 2 April 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Ogden, Matthias

                            Dear Sir,
                            Newburgh Apl 2d 1782

                        After I wrote to you from Morris Town, I received information that the sentries at the doors of Sir Henry
                            Clinton were doubled at eight o’clock every night from an apprehension of an attempt to surprize him in them—If this be
                            true, it is more than probable the same precaution extends to other Personages in the City of
                            New York—A circumstance I thought it proper for you to be advertised of.
                        It is of great importance that I should know the exact strength of the enemy’s Corps in New York &
                            its dependencies—and how they are disposed of—Either of the person’s whose names you mentioned to me when I was at your
                            House, can, if they are inclined & would be faithful, give very good information on these points—and it is very
                            much my wish that they should do it speedily and with accuracy—The
                            list which you, and another which Colo. Dayton sent me sometime ago, were both incorrect, as some Corps were inserted that
                            are in the West Indies—and others omitted which were known to be here. No man in the Military line, of common abilities
                            & who has access to New York, can possibly be at a loss to know the total number, and the names of the Corps in
                            the department where he himself is—To ascertain the strength of each, I acknowledge is more difficult, but by no means
                            impracticable with a little address, to accomplish in a short time.
                        To keep me regularly advised of the Enemy’s strength & how it is disposed of—of their Reinforcements
                            & detachments—and of the state of the Kings ships in, and belonging to the Harbour is of great importance
                            & it is my earnest wish that you would press it upon the persons in whom you seem to place confidence—urging them
                            to be pointed, regular & accurate in all their communications—No Service can be greater than this if it is well
                            performed. These, with an account of them & progress of their public works are of infinite
                            more consequence than all the chit-chat of the Town & the idle conjectures of the Inhabitants respecting the
                            policy & mode of carrying on the War &ca. I am Dr Sir Yr very Hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Catherine Van Rensselaer Schuyler, 2 April 1782
From: Schuyler, Catherine Van Rensselaer
To: Washington, George

                            Albany 2. April 1782

                        As the ladies are not bound to enter into the views of military arrangements, Your Excellency, I imagine,
                            will not be surprized that I take the liberty to trouble you with a request contrary to the order you have given for
                            relieving the guard you have been so obliging as to allow the Skeyler. I found the poor fellows
                            extremely unwilling to exchange their situation; and as several of them have large families who will be much distressed by
                            their removal, and have been a long time with us, I wish Yr Excellency could think it convenient to let them still remain.
                            As the greater part of them are cripples & half more small men, I should suppose that the
                            Regiment would not lose much by their absence. One of them indeed is particularly circumstanced—he enlisted on a belief
                            that they would be a permanent guard and remain in this part of the country, and has always been made use of as a guard to
                            the scouting parties, in which from his knowledge of the country he has been very useful. He has a large family entirely
                            dependant on him.
                        When I make this request I should be sorry Your Excellency from motives of politeness should be  under any embarrassment, if you should have any  particular  raisons for withdrawing the present guard. I should be glad they
                            might be permitted to continue, if there should be no inconvenience in it, but if there is, I should not wish my request
                            to have any influence. With the greatest esteem I am Yr Excellency’s most obd servt
                        Catharine Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 3 April 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Highlands, April 3. 1782.

                        Inclosed your Excellency will find a New York paper of the 27th ultimo, which came to hand this morning—is
                            the latest I have received.
                        The escort to the mail on the return from Morristown on Sunday afternoon, was attacked by Moody and his gang
                            a few miles beyond Suffrans—One of the escort was killed but the mail was saved.
                        I have just received a letter from colonel Tupper, dated at Albany the 25. ultimo, in which he observes—"I am
                            just informed by major Scott that a scout he lately sent out had returned, and report they discovered a party of the enemy
                            below the narrows on South-bay. but their numbers were so superior to that of ours which were a sub’s party only, that our
                            officer thought it not prudent to attack them." Colonel Tupper does not mention the supposed number of the enemy. I have
                            the honor to be With the highest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 3 April 1782
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Office of Finance Philada 3d April 1782.

                        I have received letters from Wm Duer Esqr. respecting a request made by Genl Heath for Magazines of Salt
                            provisions to be provided at some of the Posts which Mr Duer is to supply, he alledges that the laying up such Magazines
                            will create an expence & advance of Money beyond what he is bound to by the Contract, which I suppose may be the
                            case, and if so it is but reasonable & Just that such extra Expence should be to the public. I am too distant
                            & too little acquainted with the Posts, also with your intentions as to these Magazines to decide with propriety
                            on the Allowances to be made the Contractor for the extra supplies or services which may be required. Therefore I enclose
                            herewith Copies of Mr Duers Contract & of his letters on the subject, Your Excellency will determine the
                            quantities of provision to be laid up in Magazines, if any are necessary, & the places where, and then commission
                            some proper person to meet the Contractor & fix with him a reasonable compensation for the services he renders
                            over & above the terms of his Contract, and the Act of your Commissioner shall be complied with. I am sure he will
                            be properly impressed with the Necessity of Frugality in all our Affairs. I have the honor to be your Excellency’s Most
                            obedient & most humble servant

                            Robt Morris


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

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Thursday. April. 4th, 1782
                            Parole
                            C. Signs

                        The Commander in Chief having returned and resumed the Command of the Main Army, presents his thanks to Major
                            General Heath and the Troops which have been employed under his orders, for having preserved the important Posts committed
                            to their Charge and covered the Country so successfully against the depredations of the Enemy during the absence of the
                            General—All the present Arrangements of Command and interior regulations of the Army will continue in force unless where
                            alterations are made by some particular order for the purpose.
                        The General proposes to review the whole Army by Brigades, as soon as conveniently may be—On the days
                            appointed for the review all the men are to be present with their Corps except such as are prevented by Detachments,
                            Sickness or other Sufficient cause—Accurate regimental Rolls are to be exhibitted on the Occasion and all absentees
                            Satisfactorily Accounted for—The first Massachusetts Brigade will be reviewed on Saturday the 6. Instant at eleven oclock
                            A.M.—The 2d Brigade on Monday and the 3d on the Tuesday following at the same hour.
                        The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the Following Resolve.
                        By the United States in Congress Assembled—March 19th 1782.
                        On a report from the Secretary at War—Resolved that so much of the act of Congress of the 30th of September
                            1780 as establihes the pay and Rations of the regimental Surgeons and their Mates be and hereby is repealed, That in
                            future the pay of a regimental Surgeon shall be Fifty-nine dollars ⅌ Month and that he be entitled to draw three Rations
                            ⅌ day and Forage as heretofore—and that pay of a regimental Surgeons Mate be in future Forty two dollars ⅌ Month and
                            he be entitled to two Rations ⅌ day.


Title: To George Washington from Matthias Ogden, 4 April 1782
From: Ogden, Matthias
To: Washington, George

                             4 April 1782

                        The Memorial of Lewis Costigin formerly a Lieutenant in the Jersey Line Most respectfully Sheweth,
                        That your Memorialist was taken Prisoner by the Enemy in the Month of January 1777 and continued in Captivity
                            untill the 17th of Sepr 1778. That your Memoralist was prevailed upon by the Solicitations of Major General Lord Sterling
                            & Colonel Ogden To Stay in the City of New York after his Exchange for the Space of four Months, in order to
                            procure & send out information respecting the movements of the Enemy.
                        That your Memoralist flatters himself he has in this way been of essential Service to his Country &
                            has faithfully from time to time during the said four Months conveyed usefull intelligence to the Officers of the American
                            Army, as by the Certificate of Colonel Ogden, herewith handed To your Excellency very fully appears, That during the
                            Continuance of your Memorialist within the British Lines for the four Months above mentioned, he necessarily was put to
                            great Expences, his Board being excessively high, and being Obliged to spend money frequently in order to procure the
                            wished for information respecting the Designs of the Enemy of which Expences your Memoralist begs leave herewith to lay
                            before your Excellency a Just & true Account: That your Memoralist Doubts not but your Excellency will take his
                            Case in Consideration & as he has undergone these Expences in consequence of the request of the Officers
                            aforesaid, & solely to answer beneficial purposes to his Country, will order him such Compensation as his services
                            in your Excellencys Opinion have Justly merited; & your Memoralist as in Duty bound shall ever Pray.
                        United States of America

                                To Lewis Costigin

                                Dr.

                                To my Board at New York

                                after being Exchanged as a

                                prisoner and Remained there

                                by order & Desire of Major Genl

                                Lord Sterling & Collo. Odgen from

                                the 17th Sepr 1778 to the 17th January

                                1779—16 Weeks at halfe Johanns. ⅌ week

                                48.

                                To sundry Expences during said time

                                in Procuring & encouraging Persons

                                to furnish me with Intelligence,

                            and in sending the intelligence

                                procured to the America Lines

                                     65.

                                £
                                113.
                                0.
                                0

                            Matthias Ogden’s Certificate, 4 April 1782, not transcribed.


Title: To George Washington from Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle Duportail, 4 April 1782
From: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Paris 4 April 1782

                        I take this opportunity of presenting my Respects to your excellency and Recalling to your memory a person
                            entirely devoted to you. I will not speak of any political or military matters because you will Receive by this same
                            opportunity letters of gentlemen who was acquaint you of the situation of the affairs better than I can do. I beg leave
                            only to assure your excellency that the distance has not Cooled in me the interest which I allways took from the beginning
                            to the noble Cause of the americans and which is grown stronger by the particular esteem and attachment that I Conceived
                            for a great number of them. If my inclination and views had any influence upon our Court Certainly you should be satisfied
                            with their dispositions for the next Campaign.
                        I had the misfortune of losing my father three months before my arrival here. This event puts me in need of
                            three or four weeks more for the settlement of my domestic affairs without this Circumstance I should not have waited for
                            the marquis to go to america, being very important to Return under the orders of your Excellency. but I hope we will set
                            off before may. I beg leave of presenting my best Respects and Compliments to mistress washington and to gentlemen of your
                            family. I have the honour to be with great Respect your excellency’s the most obedient and humble servant

                            duportail


Title: To George Washington from Ann Hawkes Hay, 4 April 1782
From: Hay, Ann Hawkes
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             April 4th 1782

                        This will be handed to your Excellency with a letter from Dr Latham who has Gov. Clintons permission for his
                            sister in law to come out of New York & reside with him at Manor Livingston. for which purpose he has proceeded
                            thus far on his way to Elizabethtown intending to send for his to meet him there & to carry her & her
                            baggage in waggons home with him. To save my Friend such a vast expense. I have advised him to apply to your Excellency
                            for permission for her to come up by water in a Flagg to this place & that he may be permitted to hire a vessel
                            here. to take her baggage out of the Flagg & proceed up the river to Manor Livingstons. I will be greatly obliged
                            to your Excellency if you will be so kind as to grant his request & I am with great respect your excellency’s most
                            obedient servant Colo.

                            A. Hawkes Hay


Title: To George Washington from James Latham, 4 April 1782
From: Latham, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Haverstraw April 4th 1782

                        His Excellency Governor Clinton has been so kind as to grant me a permit for my Sister inlaw to Come from New
                            York, & to reside with me in the Manor Livingston, of which the inclosed is a Copy, I should have sent the
                            original, but for fear of losing it. for this purpose, I am so far on my way to Elizabeth town, and have my friend point
                            me out an easier and less expensive mode of Conveying my Sister, her daughter & their baggage, than what I was
                            going to persue—Which is, for a flag to come here from New York, and from hence to proceed in a Petty Augar
                                piragua to the Manor—I should deem myself extremely fortunate, if your Excellency has no
                            Objection to my passing the forts in this Manner, and will do me the favor, to grant me your permit.
                        I request you will be so good as to excuse the liberty of a stranger, which ever shall be Most gratefully
                            Acknowledged by Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Humble servant

                            James Latham


Title: From George Washington to Connecticut Officer Commanding at Stamford, 4 April 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Officer Commanding at Stamford, Connecticut

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Newburgh April 4th 1782

                        You will be pleased to grant Flags of truce to Mr John Lister, Mr Jacob Hendrickson & Mrs Jacoba
                            Carman, agreeably to the Permission of His Excellency Governor Clinton which will be handed to you herewith. I am Sir Your
                            Hble Servt.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 5 April 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Highlands April 5. 1782.

                        Inclosed is a New York paper of the 1st instant, the latest which has come to hand, and a letter I have just
                            received from colonel Tupper.
                        Twenty-seven recruits arrived yesterday from Massachusetts. By letters and other information the recruiting
                            service is successful at the eastward. I have the honor to be, With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient
                            servant

                            W. Heath

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Albany April the 1st A.D. 1782

                            yesterday was brought in here the notorious joseph Bettiss late from St johns on His way to New York, two
                                letters or notes were found on him one of which is in figures which no doubt contains matters of Importance. The
                                    Commissioners have the papers which will be soon at Head Quarters.
                            He has hinted that there some designs and opperations to take place soon with respect to Vermont but has
                                not told all he knows, he is to be examined again this Day, if any thing extradnary turns up I
                                shall transmit it to head Quarters. I have the Honour to remain your Honors most obedent Humble Servant

                                Benj. Tupper Colo. Comr


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Sim Lee, 5 April 1782
From: Lee, Thomas Sim
To: Washington, George

                            SirAnnapolis 5th April 1782 In Council

                        We are honored with your Excellency’s favor of the 4th Ulto—We will take measures to have Waggons Supplied to
                            the Officers who have Charge of the Goods for the British and German Prisoners at Frederick Town—and to prevent imposition
                            or molestation in this State. We have the honor to be with very high personal respect & Esteem Your Excelly’s Mo.
                            Obedt Servants

                            Tho: S: Lee


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 5 April 1782
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

                            Dr Sir.
                            Baltimore 5th April 1782

                        Doctor Craik gives me but a moment to acknowlege your Excellency’s letter of the 12 of last month.
                        I think precisely with your Excellency in your observations on the war. Its prosecution is certainly
                            intended, and it is our business to bring as early as possible a respectable force into the field. Shall I tell you, that
                            we inlist but slowly, and that I am very apprehensive our Assembly will be averse to classing the people. We shall meet,
                            it is expected early in May, when your thoughts will be urged in every different form. Most
                            respectfully and with the greatest attachment I have the honor to be your Excellency’s most ob. st

                            James McHenry


Title: To George Washington from Philip John Schuyler, 5 April 1782
From: Schuyler, Philip John
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Newburgh April 5th 1782

                        I have perused the Charges exhibted by M: Gen: Heath, against M: Gen: McDougal, and the letter of the 1st
                            Instant from the latter to your Excellency.
                        The Charges contained in the first five articles, appear to me to be so clearly and particularly defined that
                            General McDougal may either plead not guilty, and produce Evidence to refute them, or he may plead guilty, and claim the
                            Indulgence of the court to Satisfy.
                        The 6th & 7th articles appear to me to be as much defined as the nature of such charges will admit
                            of—To be more particular on such occassions, would subject the prosecutor to the following
                            Inconveniencies—If in detailing what he may be informed was the whole conversation, he must charge what every Informant
                            has declared unless all the Informants perfectly agreed, and If he should then omit any material
                            circumstance which might turn up in evidence, and which would, and ought to convert, the court cannot with propriety, take
                            cognizance of such circumstance, as It would be foreign to the charge; and hense a person highly
                            criminal might escape with Impunity, at least from Immediate punishment; and If the prosecutor charges particular
                            expressions, and the wittnesses should not explicitly support such charge; either thro forgetfulness, or misapprehension,
                            the prosecuter will be exposed to the Imputation, of having held a conduct inconsistent with the character of a man of
                            honor, altho he might honestly conceve that the charge he had made was not broader, than his information warranted;
                            Besides If my memory serves It has been the constant practice both in the british army and in that part of the american
                            army, where I personally served, on such occasion generally to charge, Conduct unbecoming an
                                officer, or tending to excite mutiny, sedition &ca and the defendant whom the particulars are detailed by
                            the wittnesses, requests time of the court to collect evidence, refute the charge, and is always indulged.
                        With respect to the charges intended to be Exhibited by General McDougall against General Heath—It appears to
                            me when an officer is under arrest, and is informed of any criminality in another by which the State or army may be
                            injured, that it is his duty to advise the Commander in chief
                            simply as giveing information and not by way of charge, If the Commander in chief deems the
                            Information of consequence he will pursue the necessary measures. If not he will slight it. the Informant will however,
                            after being tryed, and If not rendered Infamous by the confirmed sentence of the court martial have It in his option, to
                            prefer the Charges or not unless the Comr In chief should already have ordered an arrest; in which case he will be
                            considered only as an evidence, the contrary doctrine I concieve would lead to that pernicious practice of recrimination, not Justification and which I belive so far from
                            being admitted, has always been discountenanced, both in civil and military contentions, on those principles I think Genl
                            McDougal ought not only to withold any charges at present, but also any Information against General Heath. unless he is
                            advised of such matters which If not Immediately communicated would hazard the weal of the state or the
                            army. I am Dear Sir with great respect &ca Your Excellencys Obed: Servant

                            Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from William Lord Stirling Alexander, 5 April 1782
From: Alexander, William Lord Stirling
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Fish Kill April 5th 1782

                        On the 19th of February last I stated to General Heath by Letter, the Objections made by General McDougal to
                            my siing as president of the Court Martial appointed for his Tryal, with my reasons for being of Opinion that there was no
                            good cause of Challenge shewn either by the Martial Law known to us, or by any Common or Statute Law that we can have
                            referrence to, of this Letter I suppose General Heath has transferred a Copy to your Excellency. I am Anxious that this
                            Question should be determined in the most Solemn manner, as it is a point very Nearly afficting the honour and Competency
                            of every Officer in the Army, yet when ever it is determined your Excellency must be Sensible that
                            delicacy would never suffer me to sit on the Tryal of an Officer who has challenged me in ever so tender a manner.
                                the determination on the principles of the main Question cannot at present be had by a board of
                            general officers for want of a sufficient Number of such officers, and the determination of it by Congress (who only I
                            think are Competent) will probably take up a considerable time, to prevent a delay of Justice and the good of the Service,
                            are sufficient enducements to Urge me, to submit it to your Excellency wether it would not be best that another Officer be
                            Appointed to preside at the Court Martial for the Tryal of General McDougal; reserving the main Question on the Merrits of
                            the cause of Challenge to the future determination of Congriss or to such Mode as they or Your Excellency shall think
                            Elligable. I have the honor to be with great Esteem and Regard Your Excellency’s Most Huml Servt

                            Stirling, M.G.


Title: To George Washington from William Colfax, 6 April 1782
From: Colfax, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir

                                Southernton
                                6th April 1782

                        I am obliged to address you Excellency on a subject I know to be disagreeable, but my reasons, I am
                            persuaded, will aboundantly make it appear that I am not to troblesome, without a cause.
                        The third arrangment of the subaltern Officers of the Connt Line will be presented for
                            your Excellency’s approbation—As an individual; & as an injured person, I protest against. Agreeable to the
                            proceedings of the Board of Genl Officers, that set in June 1778 to determine on,
                            & fix principles by which rank should be settled, “paymasters, not holding Coms in the Line, was to be admitted in
                            such subaltern rank as the field Officers of the regt deemed them competent to” ; and the subsequent
                            Board of officers—of which Genl Heath was presdt, have coincided with them, in this part of their proceedings—and have
                            determined, that those Officers who were arranged in 1776 as Ensigns, with the rank of Lieut., should be Junior to
                            Lieutenants, or those who was considered as 1st Lieut. before the arrangt—They likewise were of
                            oponion, That those 2d Lieuts, who were Comsd as a Lieut., should be considered as a junior grade to those who were 1st
                            Lieut. before June 1778.
                        I have now to complain to Your Excellency of an injury in two instances, in the present arrangment. The field
                            Officers of the Connt Line, who have settled the rank of these Officers, have put Mr Sherman down as
                            the 1st Lieut. in Line, & Mr Beers as the 4th. Mr Sherman never held a Commission in the line ’till after June
                                1778. At that time he enjoyed the Emoluments of a paymaster, and then it was left at his option,
                            either to come in as 1st Lieut., or as an Ensign, with the rank of 2d Lieut. & be continued in the Office of
                            paymaster—he prefered the latter & has ranked as junior to all 1st Lieuts ’till now. I was a 1st Lieut. in March
                                1778—was arranged as such, when Mr Sherman (and it was a matter of choice with him, because he
                            preferred the paymasterey to a 1st Lieutenancy,) was put down as an Ensign with the rank of 2d Lieut.
                        Mr Beers was Comsd as a Lieut. in S.B. Webbs regt before my 1st
                            Lieuty—but his appt to a 1st Lieutenancy was Junior to mine, agreeable to his own affission. What I have said, with respect to the sentiments of the Board of Genl Officers, I have Genl Parsons Authority
                            for—but they were not explicit enough in framing their proceedings & the field Officers have
                            misconstrued them. What I have said with regard to the appt of these offs, & my own, I have the best Authority
                            for—the Muster rolls of the regiments.
                        My situation is very peculiar. If these Officers are permitted to rank me, I shall be thrown out of a vacancy
                            for a Captaincy this spring, of which I had the most flattering prospects, and to which, I ought to have
                            succeded two years ago; Besides it is a manifest injustice, and I am persuaded Your
                            Excellency will think so, from what you said on this subject the last winter.
                        Colo. Humphrey’s will be able to inform your Excellency more particularly of the situation of Mr Sherman—he
                            belongs to the same regiment. I am With great respect Your Excellency’s most Obed: H’ble servant

                            W. Colfax


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 6 April 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Highlands April 6. 1782.

                        In December last I received orders from the honorable the secretary at war to direct the commissaries and all
                            others at West-point and its vicinity who had public provisions in their hands on the first day of January to deliver them
                            to one of the mr Sands, &c. Orders were given conformably. There were at that time fifteen or sixteen hundred
                            barrels of salted provisions in the magazine at West-point and in the reserves in the several works. Mr Frost, late an
                            issuing-commissary, was directed by Mr Stevens, deputy-commissary of issues, to overhaul the provisions, weigh such as
                            were good, and put them in the barrels again, and report such as were bad. Mr Frost has been pursuing the business, which
                            he completed yesterday. Of the provisions in the grand magazine, about one hundred barrels are bad—The state of provisions
                            in the several redoubts is expressed in the inclosed. In the whole there are nearly two hundred barrels of bad
                            provisions—some so bad as to be nauseous and must be buried—others, although not eatable, are of some value. The order I
                            received from the secretary at war, expressed the delivery of all provisions; but whether messrs Sands will think
                            themselves entitled to those which are bad at an appraised value, as well as those which are good, I cannot say—Something
                            ought to be done with them immediately. It is submitted to your Excellency.
                        Your Excellency has observed, by the contract, that the contractors are obliged to keep a certain quantity of
                                provisions in reserve at such works as are pointed out to them. On the 6th of February I wrote the
                            contractors as follows.
                        "Several of the posts require a constant reserve of provisions to be kept on hand. I
                            therefore request you will be pleased constantly to keep on hand in the magazines at the posts here-after mentioned, a
                            sufficient quantity of the articles composing a ration, the meat to be salted, as will subsist the number of men mentioned
                            for one month; viz. the block-house at Dobb’s ferry for thirty men—Verplank’s-point, sixty men—Stoney
                            point sixty men; one box of candles to be kept in reserve at the before mentioned works—and in the magazine at West-point
                            a sufficiency of provisions for three thousand men—Such dependent works both on the west and east side of the river as
                            have proper magazines or places of security provided for provisions, to have a quantity sufficient to subsist the troops
                            assigned for their defence fifteen or twenty days: These to be included in the estimate for three
                            thousand men before mentioned. Hard bread, at least a large proportion of it, should be provided for some of those
                            reserves. I request your particular attention to the foregoing as soon as possible. There are at present reserves in the
                            works; they must be examined and probably changed."
                        Mr Sands in his last letter to me, just before he set out for Philadelphia, informed me that he was pickling
                            the provisions, and that they should be soon deposited. I beg leave to submit the matter to your Excellency—Perhaps you
                            may think the quantity too small, too large—or that some alterations in the distribution are necessary. I have the honor
                            to be, With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath
                            M. General


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 4 June 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                            Mon Cher Marquis,Philadelphie, Le Juno cet 4 1782.

                        Je ne puis laisser partir le Colonel Grince Sans qu’il vous porte un Souvenir de moi Je Suis reste dans Cette Ville depuis que Vous l’avez quittee, et je Suis heureux de decouvrir dans le Congrès les meilleures des positions pour Se preparer rigoureusement à Soutenir une Autre Campagne.  il a resolu de Conserver dans larmée le Même Nombre de Corps que l’année derniere en a pressé vivement les Etats de les mettre au Complet. des requisitions dargent ont aussi été     faites, mais je ne puis encore Vous apprendre jusqu’a quel point les facultes et les dispositions des Etats particuliers, pour S’imposer de pesants Taxes, repondront aux vues du Congrès. une nouveau Secours puissante de Votre Genereuse Nation larrivee près de la Cote la fin de Mai en le Commencement de Juin dune force navale qui ne Serait pas bornée ni Sur le tems du Sejour, ni Sur les operations militaires assurerait la fin de la guerre dans le cours de la Campagne prochaine à moins que les ressources de la grande Bretagne ne fussent inépuisables ou qu’elle ne format de puissantes alliances.Un Secours d’argent nous mettrait en etat de fournir aux depenses de la Guerre avec facilité et credit Sans anticiper ni de tourner les fonds que le Congrès S’efforce de Constituer et qui deviendront productifs quoi que les progrès de leur Valeur doivent au Commencement etre lents. Une Superiorité Maritime a attirer toute Sa force Sur un point Ce qui non Seulement Murent à la reputation de ses armes par l’abandon de les flottes et des Etats qu’il pretend avoir conquis, mais pourrait être funeste à Ses troupes S’il Sobstinait à garder Ses positions où elles pourraient être detruites en detail, dans les deux Cas, les Consequences les plus importantes et les plus heureuses Seraient le resultat de la .Le Gnl Lincoln a accepté Sa nomination de Secretaire de la guerre, des plans  d’économie S’ont adoptés dans chaque departement et je ne desespère pas de voir avant peu nos affaires mieux administrees qu’elles ne l’ont été, ce qui ouvrira un nouveau champs productif, il faut l’esperer d’une abondante moisson.  Vous aurez reçu par une voie plus directe que la notre: la nouvelle de la Surprise et de la reprise de St Eustache par les armes de la france, ainsi je me bornerai à vous feliciter Sur Cet evenement, il a fait ressortir dune maniere frappante le Genie du Marquis de Bonillé pour les entreprises, Son intrepidite et Ses ressources dans les Circonstances difficiles, Sa Conduite dans Cette occasion lui fait un honneur infini.Je Serai impatient dapprendre Votre heureuse arrivée en france, et de recevoir les Communications que vous jugerez utiles à la Cause à laquelle nous Sommes liés, et dans laquelle nous Sommes retenus.  quoique inconnu de mme de Lafayette, je vous prie de me presenter à elle Comme un de Ses plus grands admirateurs.  Soyez assez bon pour offrir tous Nos Vœux au duc de Lauzun et aux autres officeirs de l’armée du Comte de Rochambeau qui peuvent etre dans le Circle de vos amis et que j’ai lhonneur de Connaitre.  Avec les Sentiments de laffection la plus pure et de la plus parfaite estime, je Suis mon cher Marquis Votre Ami Constant.
                    PS. 5 Janvier, depuis que je vous ai ecrit, les deputes au Congrès de la Virginie M’ont remis la lettre et les resolutions que je vous envoie. Jeprouve Une Satisfaction particuliere a devenir le Canal par lequel les justes et reconnaissantes louanges de lEtat ou je Suis né Sont transmises à lhomme que j’aime.  d’après les nouvelles reçues à l’instant de la Caroline du Sud, l’ennemi a évacué, les dans cet Etat et a Concentré Ses forces dans Charleston, Wilmington est aussi evacué et la Caroline du Nord deliverée de Ses ennemies.  les Malintentions de Cet Etat implorent le pardon et Se portent à des excès contre les chefs qui les ont égarés.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Holden Parsons, 6 April 1782
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Danbury 6th Apl 1782

                        When I was last with you I forgot to mention the Name of Mr William Heron of Redding who has for several
                            Years had Opportunities of informing himself of the State of the Enemy, their Designs & Intentions with more
                            certainty & Precision than most Men who have been imploy’d: as I have now left Service I think it my Duty to
                            inform your Excellency of this Person & my Reasons for beleiving him more capable of rendering Service that Way
                            than most People are; that he may be imploy’d if necessary.
                        He is a native of Ireland, a Man of very extensive acquird Knowledge & a great Share of natural
                            Sagacity united with a sound Judgment; but of as unmeaning a Countenance as any person in my Acquaintance. with this
                            Appearance he is as little suspected as any Man can be; an Officer in the Department of the Adjt General is a Countryman
                            & very intimate Acquaintance of Mr Heron’s thrô which Channel he has been able frequently to obtain important
                            & very interesting Inteligence; that he has had access to some of their Secrets a few Facts are
                            beyond a Doubt; your Excellency will  I informd you of the Contents of a
                            Letter you wrote to Virginia, which was intercepted about a Year ago but not publishd; this Letter his Friend shew him—of
                            the Descsent made last Sepr on New London I was informd by him and made a written Representation of it to the Governor
                            & Council three Days before it took place, this he had through the same Channel, he has
                            frequently brought me the most accurate Descriptions of the Posts occupied by the Enemy & more rational Accounts
                            of their Numbers, Strength & Designs than I have been able to obtain in any other Way—As to his Character, I
                            beleive him to be a consistant, rational, Whig; he is always in the Field on every alarm and has on every Trial prov’d
                            himself a Man of Bravery; he has a Family & a considerable Interest in this State, and from the begining of the
                            War has invariably followd the Measures of the Country; I might add as a Circumstance of his Fidelity, his delivering a
                            Letter from Genl Arnold to Majr Andre to me instead of leaving it where it ed, which Letter you have.

                            Oppose to this, his Enemies suggest he carries on an illicit Trade with the Enemy; but I have livd Two
                            Years the next Doar to him and am fully convinc’d he never had a single Article of any Kind for Sale during that Time nor
                            do I beleive he was in the most distant Manner connected with Commerce at that Time or any subsequent Period. I know many
                            persons of more exalted Characters are also accus’d, none more than Governor Trumbull nor with less Reason—I beleive the
                            Governor and Mr Heron as clear of this Business as I am and I know myself to be totally free from every Thing which has
                            the least Connection with that Commerce.
                        I think it my Duty to give this full Information of his Character that if you should think it expedient to
                            imploy him you might have some Knowledge of the Man; that you might be better able to satisfy yourself if you should send
                            for him; I beleive on Conversation he would give you Satisfaction. I am dear General with the highest Esteem yr
                            Excellency’s Obedt Servt

                            Saml H. Parsons


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 6 April 1782
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Williamsburgh april 6th 1782

                        I have the honor to send to your Excellency the Letter which I have received from General Greene and a copy
                            of the answer which I have made according to your Excellency’s intentions, of the 19th of march.
                        I wait with the greatest impatience for news from France and the Duke de Lauzun, who was said to be at Brest
                            when the Last vessel which is arrived at Philadelphy set sail from L’orient. I accept your Excellency’s rendezvous at
                            Philadelphy; when I had the honor to write you to propose Mount Vernon, for the place of meeting I thought your Excellency
                            was still at Philadelphy. I don’t know how to conciliate the reports of the Evacuation of charlestown with General
                            Greene’s Letter of the 10th of march, who does not say a word about it. I have a great mind to believe that the Enemy will
                            occupy rhode island, and keep New york. some expressions I have seen in a speech of Lord North, make me have that idea. I
                            am with respect and personal attachment, Sir, your Excellency’s most obedient humble servant.

                            le cte de rochambeau

                     Enclosure

                                Copy
                                Sir,
                                Head quarters, Ponpon March 10th 1782

                            I am favored with your Excellency’s Letter of the 22d of January, I have attended to your reasoning on
                                the general plan of operations and with all respect to your superior judgment, I cannot help dissenting from you in
                                opinion. It has ever been my opinion that the best mode of defending the center of the United states is to support the
                                extremes. This opinion might be supported from a number of forcible reasons. But besides the reasons which might be
                                brought in support of the measure from the advantages we desire from this plan of operations in preference to any
                                other, we ought to pay some regard to the rights of individuals and the claims of particular states who have embarked
                                in the dispute from full assurances of protection and Support.
                            I am sorry you put the Legion in motion, if it is not to come directly forward, as it will claim the
                                Enemy’s attention at new york and induce them to detach in consequence thereof.
                            I see by the British papers and the King’s speech and parliamentary debates that we are still to expect a
                                continuation of the war in america and that the Southern States are to form the Theater.
                            Since I wrote you before, a detachment of horse and foot of the Enemy from charlestown have been out in
                                St Thomas’s and routed General Marion’s command. They killed, wounded, and took about 20 of our people but retired
                                into Town before your Light troops could reach them, the distance being upwards of 50 miles. on this side they venture
                                not to Shew their heads. general Wayne has burnt the Enemys forage at Savannah close under their noses. I have the
                                honor &ca

                                Signed Nath. Greene

                     Enclosure

                                Copy of a letter from General Rochambeau to General Green.
                                Sir
                                Williamsburgh april 6th 1782.

                            I have Received the letter under date of the tenth ultimo, Which your Excellency has done me the honour
                                to write me.
                            I am Exceeding sorry that my opinion does not coincide with yours respecting the general plan of
                                operations, but I would fain persuade myself that it comes from our not understanding one another right—your opinion
                                is that the best mode of defending the Center of the united States is to suport the extremes you
                                would be the same if these extremes covered the center, but as Virginia on the sea side whereby our common Enemy may
                                come into it, Is as much exposed as the other southern States, I do not believe that (Considering
                                the pure intentions of the King my master, which are to give an equal protection and assistance to the thirteen United
                                States of America, whom he is allyed wth) Virginia should be laid open, for the purpose of reinforcing the Southern
                                Army in Carolina, unless there be an absolute Necessity for it—the Resolutions of the English government are not as
                                yet known, but at all Events they will be for carrying on the War either offensively or defensively. if offensively I
                                look upon it very suitable to see upon what part the storm will fall before the french corps be
                                directed toward that place, if the War is carryed on defensively we must wait until we hear from our fleet to know
                                what part either to the North or to the south our offensive Operations will be directed—your Excelly cannot but allow
                                that I would make a very imprudent step to send the french corps in the inland parts of South Carolina if the naval
                                Army comes in this part to carry me to the Northward, I have Sir! the greatest respect for your Opinion, I would feel
                                the greatst pleasure in adhereing to it, it is as well as mine submitted to Genl Washington’s judgement, I have sent
                                him a Copy of your Excellencys letter Dated Decemr 29th and of my answer to it, by the different letters I have received from him since he persists in approving that the legion of
                                Lauzun should not at this moment proceed further than Charlotte Court House—all the news from the English papers even
                                those of new-York seem to give to understand that the Enemy proposes evacuating Charlestown, but I am not give any
                                Credit to that as by your Letter of the 10th of March you do not mention it.
                        I desire very much, Sir, that the orders of our Common Général, and the Circumstances of this service for the Common Cause Should put it in my power to be more particularly acquainted with your Excellency. I have the honor &c.Signed le cte de rochambeauThe portion in square brackets is a translation from code.


Title: From George Washington to Catherine Van Rensselaer Schuyler, 6 April 1782
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Catherine Van Rensselaer

                            Madam
                            Newburgh 6th Apl 1782

                        I have been honored with your favor of the 2d Inst.—as it is your wish to retain the old
                            guard in preference to the New one ordered, I will direct Genl Clinton to suffer them to remain till further orders from
                            me—or till circumstances may render it necessary to recall them.
                        Mrs Washington joins me in best respects to you, Mrs Hamilton &ca, & I am—Madam Yr Most Obedt
                            & Hble Servt

                            Go: W——n


Title: To George Washington from Henry Tiebout, 6 April 1782
From: Tiebout, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Smiths Clove Black house April 6th 1782

                        Have thought it my duty to inclos to your Excellency a letter I Recd from the Sheriff of Bergen County in
                            whose custody I found the prisoner Henry Lawbach who was Concern’d in ing the post. I am your Excellency’s most obedt Humble Servent

                            Hy Tiebout Capt.
                            1st New York Regt

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Rammepagh March the 2th 1782

                            After I Left you I met With Cornl Haring Who Informed me that Henry Lawback wass Taken Prisinor in
                                Seventy Six by Our People he wass then a Solder under this Peter Retan that wass With him to take the Post and wass
                                Let on his Parole by Our Commissy you may Judge if he belongs to the military from your Humb.
                                sert

                                Abraham Manning Sheriff.


Title: General Orders, 7 April 1782
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Newburgh Sunday. April 7. 82
                            Parole
                            C. Signs

                        The Tryall of Major General McDougall having been delayed by his objecting to the president and some of the
                            Members of the Court Martial which was constituted for the purpose of trying him; and there being no rule yet established
                            by our Military Code of Laws by which the right or limitation of challenges is ascertained, but the President and Members
                            excepted against having expressed a desire to be excused from that duty, It is therefore ordered Major General Howe Preside at the said Court, and that other members be
                            appointed in the places of those who have been Challenged and declined Serving, as also of those who may be absent—The
                            Court will assemble at West Point or some convenient place in the vicinity of it on Wednesday next.
                        The Commander in Chief will review the first and Second Connecticut Brigades on thursday next at eleven
                            oClock.


Title: To George Washington from Charles, marquis de La Rouërie Armand Tuffin, 7 April 1782
From: Armand Tuffin, Charles, marquis de La Rouërie
To: Washington, George

                            sir
                            charlotteville 7th april 1782

                        I have been honored with your answer to my last lettre—by the formers thestimony of the patronage which your
                            exellency granted to my military fortune & by the uncheangeable resolution in which you are thot to inter in to
                            the motives & stepts conducive to restore what promotions out of regular course have make me lost, I must be
                            convinced of the unpropriety of my past & further application on the subject—& I assure your exellency
                            that never I will take upon my self the liberty of troubling you with the same—if interference hapen for the Command
                            & no promotion take place in my favor when the arrangement of the army is made, I shall go & reseign my
                            Commission in to your hand—happy if I could have hold the same all my lifes time under your immediat Command when Justice
                            done to all would not have lessened its price & merite—as this is probabily the last lettre in which I may take
                            the liberty to express my self with sincerity—I beg leave to repeat my true sentiments of respect & admiration for
                            your Exellency—my thanks for the many favors I received from you, & the assurance that where ever & at
                            what so ever time I may be called upon my fortune time & life will be devoted to you.
                        The impossibility of getting longuer forrage & provisions at this post without money render it
                            necessary that the legion should change its quarter—I will move that Corps to Stentown thirty five or fourty mile from
                            here which raproach us of the road to the Suthern army—there I will wait for your Commands or the orders of general
                            green—which will be executed the very same day as received.
                        Should the ministre of finances have send me the money to purchasse the horses—I would have
                            had them sheapper & better than those which the qt. mastr will purchasse—I have the honor to
                            be with the greteast respect your exellencys the Most hl. od. st

                            C. armand of de la Rouerie


Title: To George Washington from James Duane, 7 April 1782
From: Duane, James
To: Washington, George

                            My dear General,Manour Livingston 7th April 1782.

                        It is with great Pleasure that I find your Excellencys arrival at Newburgh announced in the publick Papers.
                            The Circumstances of my Family prevent me from paying you my Respects at present: but the visit shall only be deferred
                            till the Impediment is removed. I long, my Dear Sir, to see you: to congratulate you on the glory which you have acquired
                            the last Campaign: and to felicitate with you on the decisive Consequences which a Victory in all Respects so brilliant,
                            and of such vast magnitude, must produce to our Country.
                        I have spent some time with our Legislature and embraced the Opportunity to inculcate, in the most cogent
                            Terms, the necessity of strengthning your hands; so that you may be enabled to strike the Enemy before they recover from
                            their Consternation; and tirminate the war by a vigorous Campaign. They will, I am perswaded, leave nothing unattempted to
                            fill up their Continental Battallions, and afford some Portection to our desolated Frontiers. Fully
                            perswaded that the plan for the administration of our Afairs, on which I have hazarded my political Reputation, will be
                            wisely conducted, and produce the most salutary Effects; I feel myself hurt that any Proposal from the Financier shoud be
                            checked or disappointed: but his pecuniary Requisitions from this State are, I fear, far beyond the Reach of our utmost
                            Resources. This at least is the Opinion of the most zealous Judicious, and best informed, and their Reasons appeard to be
                            so well grounded as to preclude Sollicitation.
                        If any thing interesting from the Southward shoud transpire you will oblige me by communicating it. I put no
                            Confidence in the Reports of a voluntary Retreat from those states; at least from Charles Town. It is my Opinion that the
                            Enemy will rather commit that Garrison to the Chapter of Chances; than give such a palpable Proof of their weakness to all
                            Europe. Indeed they are already too much humbled and distressed not to think seriously of patching up a Peace; but not to
                            reckon upon the inflexible obstinacy which has all along marked the british Councils, they know too well the advantages,
                            in a negociation, of having in their hands the Capital and Sea port of a rich State, to part with it unconstrained.
                        Be pleased to present the respectful Compliments of every Branch of this Family to Mrs Washington; and to
                            accept of their Joint wishes for your Glory and Prosperity.
                        I only write in the general Voice of my Country when I assure you that I am with the most perfect Esteem and
                            the most affectionate attachment—Dear Sir—Your Excellencys most obedient & most humble Servant

                            Jas Duane


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 7 April 1782
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                            SirHead Quarters, near Dorchester, South Carolina April 7th 1782.

                        Being informed by Major Burnet that the arrangement of the several Lines of the Southern States had not been
                            made agreable to my order on that head, I have enclosed a Copy of all that have come to my hand, or that I have been able
                            to procure. The distraction that has prevailed in these States, the great number of Officers belonging
                            to the several Lines in captivity, and the great extent of Country over which the rest were spread, together with the little
                            prospect of filling up the Lines, have been some of the difficulties which have retarded and perplexed the business. I
                            have been unwearied in my endeavors to get it done, but without full effect in any, and very defective in several.
                        General Sumner has done little else than attend this business ever since I have been to
                            the Southward, and yet he has not had the business fully accomplished. It has not been in my power to do
                            any thing with the Georgia Line. I have enclosed a List of the Officers of that Line; but it is not in
                            my power to make the arrangement—neither have I been able to do any thing with the South Carolina Line—that which was
                            made by General Moultrie and the two Pinckney’s I think the most perfect that can be had. But there are several
                            alterations to take place in that before it will be just even upon the principles on which it is made. I have the honor to
                            be with great respect your Excellency’s mo: humble servt

                            Nath. Greene


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 7 April 1782
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Highlands April 7. 1782.

                        I take the liberty to enclose the two latest New York papers that have come to my hand.
                        Two deserters from the enemy who came in this morning, inform me it was reported five or six days since, that
                            there was a hot press for seamen in New York—that it was said a detachment from the grenadiers and other corps were to
                            embark; but the embarkation had not taken place, nor was the destination known. I have the honor to be, With the greatest
                            respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from William Shepard, 7 April 1782
From: Shepard, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             york Hutts april 7th 1782

                        Capt. Lebbeus Drew of the 4th massts Regt being Desirous of Resineing his Command in the
                            Army. I recommend him to your Excellency for a Discharg—and do hearby certify that he has no Public accounts unsettled to
                            my Knowledge Except Such as may have accrued. During his being a Prisoner of War. I am your Excellencys
                            obedt Humle Sert

                            Wm Shepard Colo.
                            4th Massts Regt


Title: To George Washington from Henry Dearborn, 8 April 1782
From: Dearborn, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Exeter April 8th 1782

                        I have the honour of inclosing to your Excellency an act of this State passd at the last Session of the
                            general Assembly for raising the deficientcies of this States quota of Troops.
                        the delinquent Towns are now begining to exurt them selves in procureing the men, but I have too much reason
                            to fear they will fall far short of compleeting the whole; the State has authorised me to appoint Muster Masters for the
                            recruits, I have accordingly appointed three Captains of the New Hampshire Line for that purpose, one for each rendisvous,
                            from which circumstance I flatter myself that what men are procured will be much better then the recruits we have had the
                            three last years, but there will be but very little time for making soldiers of them before it may be necessary for them
                            to appeer in the field; this State seems very much attach’d to that behind hand policy which they have
                            already too long practised; altho that blaze of public spirit which prevail’d at the commencement of the war, has been
                            almost extinguished in this State for some time pass’d, there is some small appeerence of its rekindling again, in
                            consequence of the Inspiring letters receiv’d from your Excellency this spring respecting the infinite
                            importence of their early & vigorous exertions in preparing for the approaching Campaign.
                        I shall do myself the honour to inform your Excellency as early as possible of what number of recruits may be
                            depended on from this State. I have the Honour to be with the highest sentiments of respect, your Excellencies most Obedt
                            Hume Servt
                        Henry Dearborn

                            Lt Colo. Comdr 1st N.H. R.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Franklin, 8 April 1782
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Passy April 8. 1782.

                        I did myself the honour of writing to you a few Days since by the Comte de Segur. This Line is chiefly to
                            present the Prince de Broglie to your Excellency, who goes over to join the Army of M. de Rochambeau. He bears an
                            excellent Character here, is a hearty Friend to our Cause, and I am persuaded you will have a Pleasure in his
                            Conversation. I take leave therefore to recommend him to those Civilities which you are always happy in showing to
                            Strangers of Merit and Distinction.
                        I have heretofore congratulated your Excellency on your Victories over our Enemy’s Generals, I can now do the same on your having overthrown their Politicians. Your late Success have so
                            strengthened the hands of Opposition in Parliament, that they are become the majority, and have compelled the King to
                            dismiss all his old Ministers and their adherents. The unclean Spirits he was possessed with, are now
                            cast out of him: but it is imagined that as soon as he has obtained a Peace, they will return with others worse than
                            themselves, and the last State of that Man, as the Scripture says, shall
                                be worse than the first.
                        As soon as we can learn any thing certain of the Projects of the new Ministry, I shall take the first
                            Opportunity of communicating. With the greatest Esteem & Respect, I am Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient and
                            most humble Servant

                            B. Franklin