It was then that General Greene complimented Moll on her courage and conduct. The next morning he presented her to Washington, who received her graciously, and gave her a piece of gold, assuring her that her services should not be forgotten.
Washington conferred upon her the commission of sergeant, and placed her name on the half-pay list for life.
The French officers, charmed with her bravery, gave her many presents. She would sometimes pass along the French line with her cocked hat, and get it almost filled with crowns.
She was always welcome at Headquarters. She wore a cocked hat and feather, and an artilleryman’s coat over her petticoat.
One day, Washington found her washing clothes, and stopped to chat with her.
“Well, Captain Molly,” he said, “are you not almost tired of this quiet way of life; and longing to be once more on the field of battle?”
“Troth, your Excellency,” replied she, “and ye may say that! for I care not how soon I have another slap at them Red Coats, bad luck to them!”
“But what is to become of your petticoats, in such an event, Captain Molly?”
“Oh, long life to your Excellency!” said she, “and never de ye mind them at all at all! Sure, and it is only in the artillery, your Excellency knows, that I would sarve, and divil a fear but the smoke of the cannon will hide my petticoats!”
George Washington Parke Custis, and Other Sources