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“We are without money… without provision and forage… without Cloathing; and … without Men. In a word, we have lived upon expedients till we can live no longer, and it may truly be said that, the history of this War is a history of false hopes….”

“We must have a permanent force; not a force that is constantly fluctuating and sliding from under us as a pedestal of Ice would leave a Statue in a Summers day…. Our Civil government must likewise undergo a reform--ample powers must be lodged in Congress as the head of the Federal Union, adequate to all the purposes of War. Unless these things are done, our efforts will be in vain….”

Summary:
Washington reports on the appointment of Nathanael Greene to replace Horatio Gates in command of the Southern Department of the Continental Army. Washington asks George Mason, a prominent Virginia politician, to lend whatever support he can to Greene, and gives a desperate report on the state of the army, and a brief argument in favor of expanding the powers of Congress to prosecute the war. After the disastrous Battle of Camden, South Carolina, Greene’s appointment – and his successful leadership – finally allowed Washington to regain the offensive.

George Washington. Autograph Letter Signed to George Mason, October 22, 1780. 4 pp.

Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, October 22, 1780.

Dear Sir:

In consequence of a resolve of Congress directing an enquiry into the conduct of Maj^r Gen^l. Gates, and authorising me to appoint some other Officer in his place during this enquiry, I have made choice of Maj^r. Gen^l. Greene who will, I expect, have the honor of presenting you with this Letter.