From George Washington to John Hanson, 28 May 1782
Head Quarters 28th May 1782.
sir
That Congress may be possessed of such Information as I have been able to obtain from New York at this critical Moment, I do myself the Honor to transmit to your Excellency, the inclosed Extracts from sundry Letters of Intelligence which have been lately handed to me from different Quarters. With great Respect and Regard I have the Honor to be sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedt and most hume Servt
Go: Washington
DNA: Item 152, Letters from George Washington, PCC—Papers of the Continental Congress.
Enclosure
23 May 1782
Extract of a Letter from a Gentleman of Intelligence—23d May 1782.
"The many innovations made by his Excellency since his Arrival shews him to be not only a great General, but an excellent Economist.
Eighty Sail of Transports are preparing and ordered to be ready to sail on the shortest Notice—7000 Troops are to hold themselves in readiness to embark at a minutes warning, however it is not conjectured in N. York that there is an Expedition on foot at present—but I fear it.
It is impossible to form any Opinion, from his Excellency’s Manoeuvres at present, of his Intentions, but a few Days will give us an Opportunity to discover, whether he is for peace or War.
It is said & credited that it is not in his power to give Independence, till he writes Home & is properly authorised."