To George Washington from Brigadier General Thomas Conway, 16 November 1777
From Brigadier General Thomas Conway
Camp [Whitemarsh, Pa.] the 16th November 1777
sir
The hopes and appearance of a french War, along with some other reasons, have induc’d me to send my resignation to Congress.1 as soon as the tryal of General stephens is over, I hope your Excellency will permitt me to Depart the army, in order to return to france as soon as possible.2 I return thanks to your Excellency for the civilitys you have shew’d me while I had the honour of being under your orders, and Begg you will accept of my warm and sincere Wishes for the Liberty of America and the success of your arms. I am sir your Excellency’s Most humble and obedient servant
Ths Conway
ALS, NhHi.
1. Along with his commission, Conway enclosed an eight-page letter of 14 Nov. justifying his actions. The letter was addressed to Charles Carroll, “or in his absence to the secy of Congress” (DNA:PCC, item 159). The letter was read in Congress and referred to the Board of War on 24 Nov. ( , 9:958). For rumors of an impending war between France and Great Britain, see GW to John Parke Custis, 14 Nov., and note 3.
2. For the court-martial of Maj. Gen. Adam Stephen, which concluded on 17 Nov., see General Orders, 25 Oct., 2 Nov., and 20 November.