The writings of George Washington; being his correspondence, addresses, messages, and other papers, official and private, selected and published from the original manuscripts; with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. By Jared Sparks.

282 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [ET. 50.
carried on agreeably to the rules, which humanity formed, and the example of the politest nations recommends, and shall be extremely happy in agreeing with
you to prevent or punish every breach of the rules of
war within the spheres of our respective commands.
I am unacquainted with the circumstances of the detention of Badgely and Hatfield. The matter shall be
examined into and justice done; but I must inform you,
that in my opinion deserters, or characters, who for the
crimes they have committed are amenable to the civil
power, cannot on either side be protected under the
sanction of a flag. I do not pretend to say, that the
abovementioned persons are' in that predicament.
Recrimination would be useless. I forbear, therefore,
to mention numerous instances, which have stained the
reputation of your arm's, marked the progress of this
war with unusual severity, and disgraced the honor of
human nature itself. While I wave this ungrateful discussion, I repeat the assertion, that it is my most ardent desire, not only to soften the inevitable calamities
of war, but even to introduce on every occasion as
great a share of tendernes's and humanity, as can possibly be exercised in a state of hostility.
I have the honor to be, &c.
TO THE SECRETARY AT WAR.
Newburg, 4 May, 1782.
DEAR SIR,
By the letter to Brigadier-General Hazen, which I
have enclosed to you under a flying seal for your inspection, you will observe the distressing alternative to
which we are at last reduced. I must request you will
give that letter a safe and speedy conveyance.