George Washington Papers
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From David Humphreys to Henry Sewell, 11 June 1782

Head Quarters Newburgh June 11th 1782

Dear Sir

In answer to your favor of the 9th (which is just come to hand) I am directed by the Commander in Chief to inform you; that when it was proposed Lt Col. Popkin should go to Boston to superintend the recruiting Service, the General conceived it would be at the same time a matter of private convenience as well as of public utility—that as he does not know that he is authorized to promise any public Money for the expences of the Recruiting Service, & not having given any pecuniary encouragement to the other Officers employed in any branch of that duty, he cannot think himself at liberty to do it in the present instance—if therefore Col. Popkin does not choose to go without looking to the Public for the Payment of his extra expences, another Officer may be appointed for the purpose. The General farther observes that he believes it will be impossible for the Quarter Master to furnish a bathorse, both on account of the scarcity of public Horses, & the appropriation of those on hand to other Services.

As to the size of Recruits, His Excellency is of opinion that none ought to be accepted under five feet two inches high; & that Boys of that stature, whose limbs are not spread & who have not acquired strength & firmness to perform the exercise & bear the fatigue of service are by no means proper subjects to make Soldiers of, therefore much must be left to the judgment & discretion of the Mustering Officer, to whom it is His Excellencys wish that Gen. Heath will give such further instructions as he may judge proper. I am Dear Sir With great regard

P.S. Pray what directions did you give respecting sendg back the Dragoon who came with a flag to Croton.

Capt. Sewall

DLC: Heath Papers.

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