Washington, George, 1732-1799. The writings of George Washington from the original manuscript sources
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To LIEUTENANT COLONEL
WILLIAM STEPHENS SMITH

   Head Quarters, January 22, 1783.

    Dear Smith: I have received yours of the 20th. and laid the subject of it before the General, who is clearly of opinion, as Congress have left no latitude for partial exchanges in their Act of the 16 of Octr. that it is not in his power to give any discretionary Orders and it would I am persuaded be disagreeable to urge the matter previous however to that Act it is recollected application had been made by Genl Knox for the exchange of an Officer (I think it was Lt Sutherland) 91 to which the Genls assent was given. Should Mr Sutherland appear to be the

[Note:Lieut. Alexander Sutherland, of the British Engineers. ]
Gentleman alluded to, the exchange may be considered as having been carried into execution at the before mentioned time, and an Officer of ours liberated in consequence. As to the hardships experienced by other individuals, in consequence of a long captivity, all we can do is to feel for them; it rests alone with their own party to liberate them by entering into a Genl Cartel.

    Mrs. Washington requests me to thank you in her name for the Almanac, we all remember you as we ought, particularly your friend.

    P. S. Official Accts of the Evacuation of Charles Town have arrived at Phil. by Majr Burnet, previous to which Genl Greene had effected a universal exchange of all Prisoners in that Quarter. 92

[Note:The draft is in the writing of and is signed "D. Humphreys." ]