George Washington Papers
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https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/99-01-02-10367

From George Washington to Robert Morris, 6 January 1783

Head Quarters Janry 6th 1783

Sir

The Officer who is the bearer of this, has in charge a number of Marine Prisoners, who were lately captured by a party of Troops on the Sound—There is amongst them one Hoit who has a Commission in the Refugee Corps, but who by his conduct in several instances since he was taken, particularly in attempting to induce Soldiers to desert, does not appear to be worthy of a Parole—Not knowing what was best to be done with these characters I have sent them to your Orders.

On this occasion I cannot forbear to mention the difficulties & irregularities which must frequently arise for the want of a Commissy of Naval Prisoners, or some person to transact his business at the Post of Dobbs’ Ferry—since that has been the only avenue of Communication by Flag, a number of Marine Prisoners have been sent to it, by the Executives of the several States from almost all parts of the Continent, and others have been sent out by the Enemy to the same place, for whom there was no person authorized to give Rects & transmit the accounts to the proper Department. I conceive it necessary also you should be informed that there are several instances where either Individuals or particular States or Districts have sent gratuities in Money to be distributed amongst a certain number of the Prisoners; which it is much to be feared has & will be dissipated or misapplied unless there is some person whose Province it shall be to superintend this & all the other concerns of our Marine Prisoners. A Gentleman from Masstts with about 300 guineas in cash for some of the Prisoners of that State, has just gone to Dobbs ferry to seek admission to the Enemy’s Lines—I have written to Mr Skinner in consequence of your request, to deliver all the Papers &c. respecting Marine Prisoners to Mr Turner—With great esteem & regard I am Sir &c.

P.S. Your favor of the 19th Ulto enclosing the Contract has been duly recd.

DLC: Papers of George Washington.

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