To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 31 May 1779
From Major General Nathanael Greene
quarter master Generals quarters [Middlebrook, 31 May 1779]
Sir
As I have ever made it a rule, not to promise more, than I had the fairest prospect of performing. I would not wish to lead your Excellency into an expectation, of being in readiness to move, earlier than we shall; but from the letters I have receivd, since I came from Head quarters. I have great reason to think, the Infantry and the Artillery with them, may be ready to march next day after tomorrow. If there is not an absolute necessity, a day or two longer will give us, a better opportunity to be prepard.1 I am with respect your Excellency Most Obedient humble Sert
Nath. Greene Q.M.G.
ALS, MH.
1. GW replied from headquarters at Middlebrook on this date: “I have received Your favor and am happy to find your prospects of moving the Army are so good. If possible I would wish things to be in train for our getting in motion by Wednesday” (LS, in Robert Hanson Harrison’s writing, PPAmP: Nathanael Greene Papers). Wednesday was 2 June; the army began leaving Middlebrook on 3 June.