To George Washington from William Stephens Smith, 8 March 1783
Dobbs’s ferry 8th March 1783
Sir
I was honoured with your Excellency’s private Letter of the 3d Inst—I shall be as attentive as can be wished to the points particularly referred to; the subject has never yet in the most distant manner passed my lips—I shall continue silently attentive to it, and under the mask of interrupting Commerce, sometimes review the scene; and with 24 hours notice, I think I shall be able to give a satisfactory Report. The matter which cannot be entrusted to paper, has much alarmed me—I shall be particularly cautious. I have a report from the City this morning the Packett is not yet arrived, and there is no news worth communicating.
Inclosed is a Copy of a Letter from Mr J[os.] Mersereau, If your Excellency should think proper to acquaint me with your pleasure on the subject of it I will forward it to the Gentleman. I am Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servant
W, S, Smith Lt Colo.
DLC: Papers of George Washington.
Enclosure
Elizabeth Town March 2d 1783
Dear Sire
Your friendship in obtaining a permission from His Excellency General Washington for me to go within the Enemy’s lines to settle some accounts with some B: Officers for monies advanced them when prisoners which I have a prospect to secure if I apply soon; otherwise fear I shall loose it. I should not have troubled you with this matter had it not been debts contracted when in office and under the military line, at the same time would not wish to be troublesome but consider Justice to my family requires it If my services have not intitled me to this indulgence I shall acquiesce in the result—a line from you will much oblige. Your Obt Hble Servt
Joshua Mersereau