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.

lET. 46.1 LIFE OF WASHINGTON. 279
of radical and extensive changes in the plans hitherto
pursued, both in regard to the organization and discipline of the army, and to the methods of obtaining
supplies. He deemed the subject to be of the utmost
importance, and one upon the due adjustment of which
would depend not only the efficiency, but even the existence, of a Continental military force. That he might
act upon the soundest principles, and with all the aids
that could be collected from the knowledge and reflections of others, he requested the general officers
to state their sentiments in writing. The result was a
~series of elaborate essays, containing such facts, discussions, and opinions, as the judgment and military
skill of the writers enabled them to present.
Moved by the earnest solicitations of Washington,
Congress at the same time'took the subject into consideration. Their debates finally terminated in the appointment of a committee of five members of their
body, who were instructed to repair to the camp at
Valley Forge, and invested with ample powers to confer
with the Commander, and digest in concert with him
such a system as would correct existing abuses, lead to
salutary reforms, and put the army on the footing he
desired. When the committee arrived in camp, he laid
before them a memoir, drawn up with great care, representing in detail the defects of previous arrangements,
and containing an outline of a new and improved system. The committee continued in camp three months,
and then returned to Congress and presented a report,
which was in the main adopted.
On one point, however, which Washington considered not more equitable in itself, than essential to the
continuance of an army, there was great difference
of opinion among the members of Congress. Hitherto
there had been no provision made for the officers after