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.

394 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [AET. 46.
may be left. Such articles, as come under the denomination of public stores, will of course be taken by the
proper officers for the use of the States. The point
on which I wish direction is, with respect to goods
and merchandise, private property. I do not know
whether any considerable quantity may be left; but it
has been suggested, that, from an expectation of the
sort, there are some bringing into light their gold and
silver for the purpose of buying up. If there should
be clothing suitable for the army, perhaps there might
be nothing unjust in the public taking the preference,
and Congress appointing one or two intelligent, active
persons of address, acquainted with the city and wvith
those who have the goods, with proper powers to purchase them.
Whatever measure may be thought expedient, it will
be necessary to adopt it as early as possible, as the
evacuation will probably take place in a short time.
Mr. Robert Morris, I should imagine, if the purchasing
scheme is determined on, will be able to point out
proper persons. Some gentlemen have mentioned
Messrs. Samuel Howell and Thomas Franklin as wTell
qualified, both on account of their integrity and attachment to our cause, and from their knowledge of the
city and residence in it ever since the enemy had the
possession. I have the honor to be, &c.
TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.
Head-Quarters, 31 May, 1778.
SIR,
I had the honor last night to receive your favor of
the 30th instant. I am sorry that I cannot see the necessity of the interview you propose. If you, or Lord