In order that the British Prisoners may be kept with more safety than they have been by the Militia and to correct that spirit of desertion which has taken place to a very great degree since the Capture of Cornwallis they are to be removed from their present Cantonments to Lancaster where there are good Barracks picketted in.

I have to request that your Excellency will order one of the Continental Regiments to be cantonned in Lancaster during the Winter to serve as a Guard to the Prisoners there—Their Cloathing shall follow them as soon as I can obtain a Return of their Numbers. I have the Honour to be my dear General with the highest Esteem Yr Excellys most obedt Servant