General George Washington to Henry Laurens, President of the Continental Congress, July 14, 1778

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Transcription

Camp Paramus [N.J.] 14 July 1778.

Sir

I had the honor yesterday evening of receiving your very important favor of the 10th instant.¹

Colonel Laurens, one of my aids, will set out this morning with a letter to the French Admiral the Count d'Estaing inclosing a copy of yours, and such other information as I have able to collect.—² Its further purpose is for the establishing a convention of signals in case of co-operation; or to convey him such a knowledge of the enemy's naval force and position, as may from time to time come under our cognizance.

It appears by intelligence of to-day that the Count d'Estaing is off or near Sandy Hook, having already seized several fishing boats on the banks, in order to procure information and pilots.

The army is in motion and will cross the North River with all convenient dispach, where I shall pursue such measures as may appear best calculated for improving the present conjuncture. I have the honor [&c.]

G^o: Washington

L, DNA, PCC, item 152, vol. 6: 171 (M247, reel 168). Addressed below close: “The Honorable/Henry Laurens, Esq." Addressed on separate sheet: “(on public service)/Honorable Henry Laurens, Esq^r./President of Congress/Philadelphia/G^o: Washington." Docketed: "Entered & Ex^d./Letter from Gen^l Washington/ Camp at Paramus. July 14 1778/Read 19."

1. Laurens to Washington, 10 July, above.

2. See Washington to Vice-amiral comte d'Estaing, immediately below.

Document Information

Date

1778 July 14

Volume

Volume 13

Series

American Theater, June 1 to August 15, 1778