To George Washington from John Durham Alvey, 8 March 1783
Newburgh 8th March 1783
Sir
When I first enter’d the Army under Your Excellencies Command, (which is nearly five Years since) it was with an Intention, of continuing, as long as my health would admit, and the Allowance of my pay sufficient to support me. the former within these two years past, I find is much Impair’d, being of late Subject to Rheumatick pains, owing to frequent Colds I have caught, the latter within these few weeks past, being reduc’d, to the very small Allowance of ten dollars per month, which is by no means sufficient to support any Person in Character.
Being induced from these Circumstances, to leave the Army, on the 10th Inst., (provided another person is appointed to act in the Office by that time, haveing made Application for the purpose) must therefore beg the favour of Your Excellencies giveng me a Certificate, specifying the manner in which I have conducted myself, dureing the time I have had the honour of serveing under Your Excellencies Command.
This Sir I only request, as the World is very Censorious, and which will have a tendency of stoping the Mouths of any evil minded Persons, who perhaps may be Induc’d to have something to say, relative to my leaveing the Army. I have the honour to be, with the greatest esteem and respect Your Excellencies Most Obedient, and very hume servt
John Durham Alvey [P.M.]
Main Army
John Durham Alvey Post Master to the American Army haveing serv’d in that Capacity for near five Years haveing this day voluntarly resigned his Office therefore in Justice to him, I do Certify, that he has always attended to his duty and acted in a decent & becomeing manner suitable to his Station &c.
Hd Qtrs
DLC: Papers of George Washington.