Washington, George (1732-1799) To: Thomas Nelson
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07956 Author/Creator: Washington, George (1732-1799) Place Written: Headquarters Type: Letter signed Date: 1781/10/14 Pagination: 2 p.+address+docket. 30.2 x 19.5cm. Order a Copy
Requesting clothes for troops-written 5 days before Cornwallis' surrender at Yorktown.
Signer of the U.S. Constitution.
Head Quarters 14th October 1781
Sir
From a representation made to me by Capt. White of the miserable condition of the Men of the 4th Regt. of Dragoons for want of Clothing, I am constrained to apply to your Excellency to know whether it will be impossible to procure any for then, even of the commonest kind; as [illegible] Rose, the Regimental Surgeon assures me one hundred of the Men are literally naked at this advanced Season. Could they be clothed properly about 150 who are mounted and tolerably equipped might march immediately to the Southward. A detachment of 100 have moved from Ruffins to Richmond. They have nothing but sable Jackets and Shirts and a few Caps. Consequently want Breeches, Boots, Stockings, Caps or Hats and either Blankets or Cloaks, perhaps Mr. Ross might, by an exertion procure the most necessary Articles, if not the whole; for it will be in a manner impossible to move them further than Richmond in their present condition.
With the highest Respect and Esteem
I have the honor to be
Your Excellency's [illegible]
And humble Ser
{signed} G. Washington
His Excellency
Gov. Nelson
{docket}
On public Service
His Excellency
Gov Nelson
at
G. Washington His Quarters
{upside down}
From Genl. Washington
October 15, 1781
copd
<Signature>
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