LAFAYETTE BRINGS GOOD NEWS.
Even as Schuyler and his co-workers penned their report, however, good news was arriving at headquarters. On May 10, 1780, following more than a year’s absence in his native France, the Marquis de Lafayette came to Morristown, fortified with word that King Louis XVI had determined to send a second major armament of ships and men to aid the Americans. This assistance would prove more beneficial, it was hoped, than the first French expedition under the Count d’Estaing, which, after failing to take Newport in the late summer of 1778, had finally sailed away to the West Indies. Washington’s joy at seeing Lafayette again was doubled by this welcome information, and the army as a whole shared his feelings.
Washington greeting Lafayette on his arrival at headquarters, May 10, 1780. From a diorama in the historical museum.
The gallant young Frenchman remained a guest of his “beloved and respected friend and general” until May 14, when he left for Philadelphia, carrying with him letters from Washington and Hamilton informing members of Congress about his work in France. Approximately 6 days later he returned to Morristown, and from that time forth until the end of 1780 he continued with the Continental Army in New Jersey and New York State.