From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 4 December 1781

Sir	Philada 4th Decemr 1781.

I beg leave to refer to your attention the inclosed letter from Capt. Swan, particulary so much of it as respects the furnishing three hundred sets of Horse Accoutrements which only want Bits and Stirrups to compleat them. The swords which are the most essential Weapons for Dragoons with their Belts should also be procured if possible. I presume a certain proportion of Cloathing will be allotted to the southern Army and for that reason I am not anxious to have the uniforms for which Capt. Swan applies made up here. The Regt to which he belongs will draw their share below in common with others. Indeed, I would recommend that the Horse Accoutrements Caps Boots Breeches and any other Articles which Captain Swan may obtain here may be sent to the order of Major Genl Greene. That if upon their arrival Baylor’s Regt should not require them all, the surplus may be applied to other Corps.

As I have every Reason to believe that the Horse Accoutrements are exceedingly wanted at the southward, I could wish that means might be found, if possible to get them out of the Tradesmans hands and dispatch them. I have the Honor to be with Respect & Esteem Yr &c.

P.S. Since writing the above I find by reference to some papers from the Board of War that a number of Bits Stirrups and Swords brought by Colo. Laurens from France have been ordered without loss of time from Boston.

DLC: Papers of George Washington.

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