To George Washington from Major General Benedict Arnold, 13 July 1779
From Major General Benedict Arnold
Philadelphia July 13th 1779
Dear Sir
I have been anxiously waiting a long time in expectation that the situation of the Army would admit the Court Martial to proceed on my Trial, as a part of the British Army are gone down the North River,1 I hope the time is now arived; If it can be done without prejudice to the service I beg your Excellency to appoint as early a day as posible,2 the Cruel situation I am in will apologize for my pressing the Matter; my wounds are so far recovered that I can walk with ease, and expect soon to be able to ride on Horse back.3 If there is no probibility of the Courts meeting soon I must request the Favor to know,4 in which Case I shall beg of Congress a few Months absence on my private Affairs. I have the honor to be with great respect and Esteem Your Excellencys Most Obedt Humble Servt
B. Arnold
ALS, DLC:GW.
2. Arnold’s court-martial, organized on 29 May and suspended on 2 June, arose from differences with Pennsylvania officials while he was military commander in Philadelphia. For the resumption of proceedings on 20 Dec., see GW to Arnold, 20 July, and 4 Dec.(DLC:GW), and General Orders, 19 December.
3. Arnold was wounded in the leg at Quebec in December 1775 and at the Battle of Bemis Heights, N.Y., in October 1777. The second leg wound involved a fractured bone caused by a musket ball.
4. GW replied to Arnold on 20 July.