George Washington Papers

From George Washington to Abraham Skinner, 14 June 1781

Head Quarters, New Windsor 14th June 1781.

Sir

Upon my return from Weathersfield I found yours of the 19th May inclosing sundry propositions of the British Commissary of prisoner’s. That of setting Genl Burgoyne against the disputed claim of the Cedars is inadmissable—nor can I say any thing to the proposed respecting the Charles town prisoners, as I have good reason to believe that a Cartel has been settled between General Greene and Lord Cornwallis, tho’ I know nothing of the terms or in what manner they are to be carried into execution.

It is very strange that our privates should be detained in New York when a considerable indisputed Balance of those under that description is due to us—and when it neither interferes with the Southern or convention prisoners. I can only recommend it to you to press Mr Loring to the release of all who are at present in New York.

I should have answered your former, but I have been in daily expectation of seeing you, as I was told you were to have returned immediately from Eliza: Town. I am Sir yr most obt Servt.

P.S. General Greene has since writing the above furnished me with a Copy of the Cartel entered into between him and Lord Cornwallis by which the Charles town prisoners are to be exchanged for those taken to the southward.

DLC: Papers of George Washington.

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