George Washington Papers

To George Washington from Elias Dayton, 18 June 1782

June 18th 1782

Sir

In my letter of yesterday I informed your Excellency that I had ordered Capt. Asgil to the Jersey Huts but upon waiting on him today I found him in such a situation that humanity would have shuddered at the idea of his removal he has been in a fever for some time past and the agitation of his mind upon the apprehension of less agreeable quarters and perhaps more indelicate treatment have increased it to a very considerable degree—Presuming therefore on your Excellencys lenity, and that his safety was the only object, I have for the present confined him a close prisoner at my own quarters where he will be in perfect security until farther orders. I wish to make it my study at all times to obey littrally every order from my superior officers and especially from your Excellency, but my feelings for the innocent & distressed urged me to take time to make representation. I have the honor to be your Excellencys most Hbl Servent

Elias Dayton

DLC: Papers of George Washington.

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