Dear General,
Permit me most sincerely to congratulate you on the arrival of the French fleet, and to express my warmest wishes for the success of your future operations.
As soon as I arrive at Philadelphia, I shall give directions for the Deputy Paymaster to repair to the head of the Elk, and make the payment of a month's pay in specie to the detachment under the command of General Lincoln. I wish the States had enabled me to do more, but it is to be lamented, that the supineness of the several Legislatures still leaves the servants of the public to struggle with unmerited distresses.
It shall, however, be a part of my business to rouse them into exertion, and I hope soon to see the army better paid than heretofore, and I confide, that your Excellency will, with every other public officer, exert your influence to aid me in this necessary task.
With the greatest respect, &c.
ROBERT MORRIS.
GEORGE WASHINGTON TO ROBERT MORRIS.
Head of the Elk, September 6th, 1781.
Dear Sir,
Every day discovers to me the increasing necessity of some money for the troops. I hope by this time you are provided to give a month's pay. I find it of the last importance to hasten forward myself to join the Marquis de Lafayette as soon as possible. I may leave this in a few hours; I cannot do it, however, without entreating you in the warmest terms to send on a month's pay at least, with all the expedition possible. I wish it to come on the wings of speed.