From George Washington to David Forman, 13 July 1778
To David Forman
Head Quarters Paramus [N.J.] July 13th 1778
Dear Sir.
Having received intelligence from Congress that the french fleet under the command of Admiral Count d’Estaing arrived near Chincoteague on the evening of the 5th Inst.—I have written to the Admiral in order to concert such a Plan of cooperation with him as the nature of the case will admit, and establish proper signals for reciprocal intelligence1—Mr Laurens is bearer of my letter to him—as it is of the utmost consequence that Count d’Estaing shd be immediately acquainted with the Strength and posture of the Enemys fleet & other matters contained in my letter, I entreat you by every means in your power to facilitate & expedite Mr Laurenss getting on board the Admirals Ship. I am with great Regard Dear Sir Yours &c.
Df, in John Laurens’s writing, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW.
1. For the intelligence from Congress, received on the evening of 13 July, see Henry Laurens to GW, 10 July. GW’s letter to Vice Admiral d’Estaing is dated 14 July.