George Washington Papers
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To George Washington from Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle Duportail, 27 June 1782

Paris 27th of june 1782

Dear general

I expected that no ship should go to america without us, but notwithstanding our impatience we are detained for two or three weeks longer. the minister of the navy Could not give any place to Colonel gouvion and myself in the frigate destined for the french officers but we have the assurance to have another with the marquis, the soonest possible. I wish you to be persuaded how much I long to join your excellency and the americain army. I Consider myself as an americain if not by birth, by a mutual adoption—the Cause of america is mine, all my pleasure is in it and I will not leave it before we attained the suceés. if the late unhappy events seem to make it less Certain I grow for my part more obstinate et more ardent. let us endeavour to repare upon the land our losses on the sea. this last element is never so favorable to france than the other.

I dont speak to your Excellency of any particular matter because the marquis Can do it better than myself.

I ask leave to present my best Respects and Compliments to the gentlemen of your family and of the army who are so good as to keep some memory of me. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect and attachment your excellency’s [   ] most humble servant

Duportail

DLC: Papers of George Washington.

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