From George Washington to William Greene, 23 November 1779
To William Greene
Head Quarters West-point 23d Novmbr 1779.
Sir
I had the pleasure of your Excellency’s favor of the 5th with its inclosure. It is with the utmost satisfaction that I join my congratulations with yours on the evacuation of Rhode Island.
In a letter of this date to Sir Henry Clinton, I have represented the loss of the records mentioned in the resolution of the Council of war and requested his interference for their restoration.1 I can promise nothing from any influence of mine in this quarter, but what arises from the propriety of the request. On receiving his answer I shall immediately transmit it to your Excellency.2 I have the honor to be with the greatest regard your Excellency’s Most obt servt
Go: Washington
LS, in James McHenry’s writing, R-Ar; Df, DLC:GW; Varick transcript, DLC:GW.
1. GW is referring to his letter to Gen. Henry Clinton drafted on 20 November.
2. No reply from Clinton has been found. The British ship conveying the government records of Newport and Middletown, R.I., sank at Hell Gate, New York. For the return of the badly damaged originals to Newport officials in December 1782, see 483.