From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 25 August 1778
To Henry Laurens
White plains—Augt 25th 1778.
Sir,
If it be practicable, and convenient for Congress to furnish me with some Specie (gold, as more portable, would be most convenient) valuable purposes I think would result from it. I have always found a difficulty in procuring Intelligence by the mean of Paper money. and I perceive that it increases. The period is critical & interesting, and the early knowledge of an Enemys intention, and movements too obvious to need explanation.
Having hinted to the Comee of Congress when at Valley forge this want I address this Letter to you now rather as a private than public one—because I do not wish to have the matter again mentioned if Congress hath been apprized of my wants & find it inconvenient to comply with them.
I have the pleasure to inform you that Colo. Laurens was well on the 23d—I have had a Letter from him of that date. with great respect & regard I have the honr to be Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt
Go: Washington
ADfS, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW. A nineteenth-century transcript, presumably made from the letter sent, shows minor verbal differences with no change of meaning (ScHi: Henry Laurens Papers).