I do myself the pleasure to enclose you a Copy of the Resolves of Congress respecting the Invalids.

Doctor Smith of the British Hospital came some time since from York Town in Virginia, on the breaking up of the Hospital there, to Annapolis; prior to his leaving York he was obliged to give a new parole to Count Rochambeau in which he engages not to leave Annapolis without Your Excellency’s permission. he some time since wrote to me that there was no farther use for him with the Troops as Surgeon, the Invalids being sent to Europe and others which were in the Hospital had recovered such a state of Health as they could join their several Corps who were at different posts; therefore requested leave to return to New York as I had no doubt of the propriety of granting his request sent him a passport. since his arrival here he has mentioned his parole and seems anxious least this conduct should be construed to his disadvantage, as his parole so particularly mentions his gaining Your leave prior to his leaving Annapolis—I mentioned that I would write to You on the subject and supposed you would very readily excuse the steps he had taken.

Congress have referred to me a letter from General Greene of which the enclosed is a Copy, with an intention that I should Report on his Ideas of forming, the Troops of the several States into compleat Regiments.

I shall be exceeding obliged for Your Excellency’s observations and opinion on the subject. I have the honor to be with perfect esteem your Excellency most Ob. servant