The Congress of the United States having instructed me to make the proper Arrangements with the Commanders in chief of the British forces in America, for receiving possession of the Posts in the United States, occupied by the Troops of his Britannic Majesty, and from which his Majestys Troops are to be withdrawn, agreably to the 7th Article of the provisional Treaty; I have to inform your Excellency, that I have desired Major General the Baron de Steuben who will have the honor to deliver this Letter, to proceed for that purpose into Canada; and I have fully impowerd and authorized him, to form every Arrangement with your Excellency which may be found necessary for receiving possession of the Posts and Fortresses on the Northwestern & Western Frontier of the Territory of the United States, under your direction, and I beg you to be persuaded that what ever Agreements this Officer shall form with your Excellency respecting this business, will be punctually observed on the part of the United States.

Baron Steuben is instructed to visit the Posts within the Boundary of the United States upon the River St Lawrence and the Lakes above, and to report to me his opinion of the measures necessary for the Garrisoning and support of them; In this tour, and in the execution of this business, I flatter myself he will receive the necessary Passport from your Excellency and derive such Aids as will enable him to fulfill the objects of his Commission.

As a foreigner, and an Officer of Rank and Reputation I beg leave to recommend the Baron to your Excellencys particular Notice and attention—As a Gentleman you will find him every way worthy of your Civilities. I have the honor to be Sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedient humble Servant