From George Washington to John Wells, 13 October 1781
Head Quarters before York 13th Octo. 1781
sir,
It being a Matter of Importance that the Works erected at Portsmouth by the Enemy—should be destroyed—I have to request that you will immediately upon Receipt of this assemble the Militia in your Vicinity to effect that Purpose—let them be compleatly levelled & demolished—that no further Use may be made of them—I am &ca
G.W.
DLC: Papers of George Washington.