From George Washington to the Commissioners for Prisoner Exchange, 1 April 1778
To the Commissioners for Prisoner Exchange
Head Quarters Valley Forge 1st April 1778
Gentlemen
The inclosed Resolutions of Congress came to my hand this instant, and as they are essentially necessary for your Government I have sent them immediately by Express.1
The first four Resolves are absolute and therefore you are obliged to insist upon the terms therein directed. But do not let the last embarrass you or impede your Business. I have so perfect a reliance upon your judgment and upon your prudence that you may depend upon my confirming whatever you may agree to.2 I am with the greatest Regard Gentlemen Yr most obt Servt
Go: Washington
LS, in Tench Tilghman’s writing, DLC:GW; Df, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW. GW signed the cover of the LS.
1. For the resolutions, see Henry Laurens to GW, 30 Mar., and note 2 to that document.
2. At this place on the draft, Tilghman wrote and struck out the words, “If there should be any point of particular importance upon which you would wish my opinion before you agree.”