From George Washington to William Stephens Smith, 14 May 1781
Head Quarters New Windsor May 14th 1781
Dear Sir
I have received your favor of the 22nd of April.
Having been informed that Colonel Vose wished to return to the Northward, Colonel Tupper was ordered to relieve him previous to the receipt of Your Letter—Nothwithstanding the Marquis had suggested that your being appointed to that Command would be exceedingly agreeable to the Regt. I did not think it could possibly be done, without involving very great inconveniencies, because in that case, there would have been ten Companies from the Massachusetts Line & not a single Feild Officer from that State. I am Dr Sr with great regard.
DLC: Papers of George Washington.