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.

358 WASHINGTON'S WRITINGS. [!ET. 50.
rison of New York as compact as possible. Many
have flattered themselves, that an evacuation would
take place before winter, but I have no such idea.
With much regard and esteem, &c.
TO BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.
Head-Quarters, 18 October, 1782.
SIR,
I have been honored with two favors of your Excellency, one presented by the Count de Segur,* of
the 2d of April, the other delivered by the Prince de
Broglie,t of the 8th, both of which were rendered
doubly agreeable by the pleasure I had in receiving
them from the hands of two such amiable and accomplished young gentlemen. Independently of my esteem for your Excellency, be assured, Sir, that my respect and regard for the French nation at large, to
whom this country is under so great obligations, as well
as the very favorable impressions I have conceived for
their particular characters, will secure my warmest attention to the persons of these distinguished young
noblemen.
I am much obliged by the political information, which
you have taken the trouble to convey to me, but feel
myself much embarrassed in my wish to make you a
return in kind. Early in the season, the expectations
* Son of the Marquis de Sigur, minister at war. Count de Stgur was
afterwards for several years French ambassador to the court of St. Petersburg.
f He came over to join the army of Count de Rochambeau. "He
bears an excellent character here," said Dr. Franklin, " is a hearty friend
to our cause, and I am persuaded you will have a pleasure in his conversation. I take leave, therefore, to recommend him to those civilities,
which you are always happy to show to strangers of merit and distinction."