To George Washington from William Heath, 2 June 1782
Highlands, June 2. 1782.
Dear General,
I forward one Thomas Gardner, who was taken up by an officer near Bedford, with the enclosed paper. He belongs to Cornwall in Connecticut. The other has been a deserter from the enemy—since taken a prisoner, as he says, made his escape from the enemy, and came off Long-island about three weeks ago. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,
W. Heath
DLC: Papers of George Washington.
Enclosure
Cornwall May 29 A.D. 1782
Thomas Gardener a Native of Ireland haveing left that place to visit his Friends on this Continent & the war commenceing prevented his return is now desireous to go to New York to enquire about his Family & see if he can obtain an Opportunity to return to his Native Land & then repair to this Town for a Time.
We the Subscribers recommend the Sd Gardener to the Commanding Officer at Horses Neck for a Permit if it is consistent to Pass from thence to New York & return by the first Flag He behaveing himself well. Signed by
Judah Kellogg Jus. Peace Authority
Edward Rogers Justice Peace
Edward Rogers Select
Andrew Young Men
Enclosure
Bedford June 1: 1782
To the Commanding Officer at Westpoint
Then took up the Within Named Thomas Gardner and dont think him a proper Person to pass this Post and do therefore Order him to West Point under Guard.
Azariah Tuttle Lt