To George Washington from Matthias Ogden, 27 May 1782

I recd your Excellency’s letter of the 25th by Capt. Ogden, & doubt not that every thing will suceed agreeably to expectations.

I dispatch Lieut. Rhea with matters of consequence that he will communicate to your Excellency; for which I am particularly indebted to Capt. Baldwin.

Mr Rhea will observe, by whom these particulars, were given; the Person who recd them I expect this evening with matters of equal consequence.

I mentioned to General Knox my expectations in this affair, perhaps his knowledge of characters, may lead to detection as no names are figured.

I shall suspend operations untill Mr Rheas return, by whom I expect your Excellencys particular directions; if any assistance from the Civil should be necessary Judge Burnet will be ready to give it.

There is at this place a subaltern & fifteen, twelve month men, that gives a Major Hays a pretence to command; his ignorance will not admit of his being trusted, & his interference may possibly marr my plans; I wish his command may be for the present removed to Rhaway—I will replace them with a few Continentals.

Mr Rhea will present the latest York papers, The fleet has not yet sailed. A number of Artificers have lately been discharged, tho’ I suppose not for want of employ, but on account of Sir Guy’s haveing detected Hampton their head; of [fraud]. I am with the greatest esteem your Excellencys humble servant