From George Washington to Thomas Bond, Jr., 3 February 1778
To Thomas Bond, Jr.
Head Quarters Valley Forge 3d Feby 1778
Dr Sir,
In answer to your letter of yesterday1 I am sorry to inform you that however willing to oblige your father and yourself, I do not think I can with propriety comply with your request. I cannot suppose your father would mean to make the least ill-use of the privilege he wishes for; but every indulgence of this kind becomes a precedent for others, and you will easily be sensible that it must be inexpedient, to admit any person to a free intercourse with the country, who is actually in the power of the enemy. It is necessary all communication should be intercepted between the Country and City, which I am endeavouring to effect. I am Dr Sir
G. Washington
Df, in Alexander Hamilton’s writing, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW.
1. Bond’s letter to GW has not been found.