110 CALENDAR OF THE WEEDOX CORRESPONDENCE. [May 5, 



Steuben, Baron {coniinued) : 

 1 78 1. — April J. Willia77tslmrg. — Apologizing for having opened 

 a letter from Gen. Muhlenberg to him (Steuben). Account 

 of Muhlenberg's confidential agent corroborates that of Capt. 

 Ross. Always his own opinion that the English would try- 

 hard to succour Cornwallis by penetrating North Carolina, at 

 the same time, holding a strong post in Virginia to keep them 

 diverted. Fatal consequences should they prove superior in 

 the South. Propriety of supporting Greene. Asks for direc- 

 tions concerning a considerable number of public horses, of 

 no use to his post. Distressed for arms. No. 71. 



1 78 1. — April 8. Williajiisburg. — Inclosing copies of his corres- 

 pondence with Gen. Phillips, concerning exchange of prison- 

 ers. Careful in his letters not to show favoritism. Object of 

 enemy's preparations probably a junction with Cornwallis, but 

 uncertain by which route. French fleet arrived safely at 

 Rhode Island. Sends British account of the engagement of 

 the idth. No. 80. 



1 781. — April 25. Williamsbuj^g. — Acknowledging letter of nth 

 inst. from Richmond. Announcing his intended departure 

 for Fredericksburg. Will report on his arrival. Incloses cop- 

 ies of his correspondence with Gen. Phillips. Hopes he has 

 not incurred Baron Steuben's censure by what he has said. 

 Exceedingly desirous of cultivating the liberal idea held out 

 by Gen. Phillips, as it will result in reciprocal advantages. 

 Has directed Col. Innes to take command until Gen. Nelson 

 arrives. Incloses general return of the troops. No. 2>Z. 



1 78 1. — April 26. Fredericksburg. — Concerning his correspond- 

 ence with Gen. Phillips about the exchange of prisoners. 

 Advises him to liberate all American prisoners taken in arms. 

 Good results accruing from this. Many prisoners at large in 

 Winchester, some of whom make their escape. Advantage of 

 exchanging these very men for Americans on board prison- 

 ships. Frederick and Barkley riflemen on their march. 

 Unless directed otherwise, will come down with them. 



No. 89. 

 Washington, George (Gen.) : 



1777. — December 2g. Valley Forge. — A detailed account of a 

 permanent system to be adopted in future promotions, regula- 



