The Papers of George Washington Volume 37 – 24 May–20 August 1782

As spring waned in 1782, Gen. George Washington wondered how seriously the British wished to pursue peace negotiations. Despite a recent letter from British general Guy Carleton that announced a cessation of offensive operations, hostilities persisted along the New York frontier as well as in Georgia, South Carolina, and the Ohio country. A newspaper report about an address in Parliament that likened potential US independence to Irish independence convinced Washington that British declarations lacked sincerity. Insufficient funds hindered every step to achieve military readiness. Animosities arose between provision contractors and army officers, a lack of pay sparked a spirit of mutiny throughout the Continental army, and Washington constantly confronted logistical or administrative complications. Washington worked assiduously to sustain cordial relations with the French. He encouraged elaborate army celebrations to mark the birth of the French dauphin and conferred with Lieutenant General Rochambeau in Philadelphia, where they decided to have the French army that had wintered in Virginia march to join the Continental troops stationed along the Hudson River. After the concentration, they would target the British garrison in New York City. A tour through northern New York supplied Washington with evidence of his public renown as he received formal expressions of praise from appreciative admirers. In his replies, Washington urged continued exertions to achieve true independence for the United States and the promise of the revolutionary cause.