George Washington Papers
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https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/03-25-02-0291

To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 17 April 1780

From Major General Nathanael Greene

Morristown 17th of April 1780

Sir

Inclosed is the answer of Major Brewan respecting erecting a Gallery for the review.1 In better days it would have been thought a disgrace and reproach to these States not to have had either Money or credit necessary to purchase Lumber for the Army. However so it is. Many things equally necessary in the order of business as these boards are left unprovided from mere poverty.

The Affairs of the Department like a Vessel in motion may move on for a time from the force that has already been given to the business; but when the effect of that fails there must be a total stop. This cannot be far distant; and I wish your Excellency to be prepard for the event. I am with great respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient humble Ser.

N. Greene Q.M.G.

ALS, DLC:GW.

1The enclosure was a copy of a letter from artillery artificer Maj. Jeremiah Bruen to Greene written on this date, presumably from Morristown or its vicinity: “I have just receiv’d a Note from Major Burnet, requesting me to have a Gallery built for the reception of the Ambassador from France: it is not in my power to do it for want of Boards. There is a plenty in this County, not far from this; but they cannot be had without Cash to purchase them” (DLC:GW). For an overview of French minister La Luzerne’s visit to Morristown, see GW to Jedediah Huntington, 20 April, source note.

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