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.

14 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [ET. 49.
you in consequence of your move; but the composition of your troops is good, and, if the officers enter
upon the service with alacrity, I have no doubt but
the men will soon forget their attachments in this
quarter, and follow cheerfully. I am, &c.
TO JONATHAN TRUMBULL, JUNIOR.
New Windsor, 16 April, 1781.
SIR,
Colonel Harrison, who has acted as my secretary
since the beginning of 1776, has accepted an honorable and profitable civil appointment in the State of
Maryland, and is gone to enjoy it. The circle of my
acquaintance does not furnish a character, that would
be more pleasing to me as a successor to him, than
yourself. I make you the first offer, therefore, of the
vacant office, and should be happy in your acceptance
of it. The pay is one hundred dollars a month; the
rations those of a Lieutenant-Colonel in the army,
which in fact are additional, as the value thereof is
received in money. No perquisites appertain to the
office. The secretary lives as I do, is at little expense while he is in my family, or when absent on. my business, and is in the highest confidence and estimation from the nature of his office. I mention these
things for your information, and shall be happy in a
speedy and favorable answer, being, with great esteem
and regard, &c.*
* The invitation was accepted by Mr. Trumbull.