To George Washington from William Greene, 15 May 1778
From William Greene
Warwick State Rhode Island &C. 15th May 1778
Sr
As I am Elected to the Office of Chief Majestrate thought proper to Acquaint you of it. That whatever Commands you may have when Directed to me, shall punctually be attended to, as I am determind to take every Necessary precaution in Order to frustrate the designs of our Cruel and Inveterate Enemy! I am with Great respect Your Obedient Humble Servt
Wm Greene
ALS, DLC:GW.
William Greene (1731–1809) of Warwick, R.I., served in 1773–74 and 1776–77 as a delegate to the Rhode Island general assembly and in 1777–78 as a member of the state Council of War and speaker of the House of Deputies. He was elected governor in May 1778 and remained in that office until 1786.
GW replied from Valley Forge on 29 May: “I was this day honoured with your favor of the 15th instant. I congratulate you on your appointment of Chief Magistrate; and shall confide in your exertions when necessary, in completing a contest that has engaged the abilities of so many good men” (LS, R-Ar).