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.

36 WVASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [2ET. 45.
If, on the other hand, it was intended to invest him
with all the powers of a major-general, why have I
been led into a contrary belief, and left in the dark with
respect to my own conduct towards him? This difficulty, with the numberless applications for employment
by foreigners, under their respective appointments, adds
no small embarrassment to a command, which, without
it, is abundantly perplexed by the different tempers I
have to do with, and different modes which the respective States have pursued in nominating and arranging
their officers; the combination of all which is but a too
just representation of a great chaos, from whence we
are endeavouring, how successfully time only can show,
to draw some regularity and order.
I was going to address Congress for instructions in
the case of the Marquis de Lafayette, but upon second
thbught concluded to ask some direction of my conduct
in this matter through a member, and therefore have
imposed this task upon you. Let me beseech you
then, my good Sir, to give me the sentiments of Congress on this matter, that I may endeavour, as far as it
is in my power, to comply with them. With respect
to commissions for his aids-de-camp, I told him that I
should write to Mr. Hancock about them, and I wish to
be instructed. The Marquis is now in Philadelphia, but
expected up this day or to-morrow. With sincere regard, I am, &c.*
" From Mr. Harrison's reply, it appears that Congress considered the
appointment of the Marquis de Lafayette as honorary only, unaccompanied with any pledge, and that General Washington was not bound by
the tenor of his commission to give him a command, but was at liberty
to follow his own judgment in this respect.