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.

278 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [BET. 46.
might at all events have them as drafts; and in this
case there would be no ground for complaint. With
regard to the infantry, which the Count esteems essential to the success of the cavalry, I have informed
him, that the enlisting of deserters and prisoners is
prohibited by a late resolve of Congress. How far
Congress might be inclined to make an exception, and
license the engaging of prisoners in a particular detached corps, in which such characters may be admitted
with less danger than promiscuously in the line, I cannot undertake to pronounce.
I have only to add, that the Count's valor and active
zeal on all occasions have done him great honor; and,
from a persuasion that, by being less exposed to the
inconveniences which he has hitherto experienced, he
will render great services with such a command as he
asks for, I wish him to succeed in his application.
I have the honor to be, &c.
P. S. It is to be understood, that the Count expects
to retain his rank as brigadier, and, I think, is entitled
to it from his general character and particular disinterestedness on the present occasion.*: The rank of brigadier-general was continued to Count Pulaski, and
he was authorized to raise and command an independent corps, to consist of sixty-eight horse and two hundred foot. The latter were to be
equipped in the manner of light-infantry, and the former to be armed
with lances. The mode of raising and organizing the corps was left to
the direction of General Washington. - Journals, MJarch 28th.