From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 12 November 1778
To Henry Laurens
Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 12h Novemr 1778
Sir
Inclosed I have the honor to transmit the Copy of a letter from Brig: General Hamilton to Genl Heath. I did not chuse to grant the request without the concurrence of Congress; tho’ at the same time I think it may be safely done. It will save the trouble and expence of another escort at a future day. I shall be glad of the determination of Congress as speedily as possible as the Flag Vessell bound to Virginia with the Baggage of the Convention troops will perhaps be detained for the answer.1 I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s most obt Servt
Go: Washington
LS, in Tench Tilghman’s writing, DNA:PCC, item 152; Df, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW. GW signed the cover of the LS as well as that of the enclosure, which was separately addressed. Congress read this letter on 19 Nov. and referred it to the Board of War (, 12:1142–43).
1. GW enclosed Brig. Gen. James Hamilton’s letter to Heath of 31 Oct., which had been enclosed in Heath to GW, 2 Nov., requesting paroles for sick and married officers in the Convention Army. Congress resolved on 23 Nov. that GW could take whatever measures “as to him shall seem proper” (, 12:1152; see also Henry Laurens to GW, 26 and 27 Nov.). For GW’s decision to allow the officers to proceed by water instead of overland, see his letters to Laurens of 4 Dec. and to Horatio Gates of 17 December.