To George Washington from Henry Knox, 4 April 1783

Under the idea of the certainty of peace, I submit it to Your Excellency whether it will be proper to issue any more ammunition to the troops. The situation of the army precludes the probability of an attack. A few hours, even supposing the possibility of a demand, would obtain a supply from this post. I have been induced to these reflections by a return for the first Massachusetts’ brigade, signed by Major Barber, for a number of arms, accoutrements, three thousand flints and forty thousand Musket cartridges. I have ordered all the articles to be issued, except, two thousand flints and the 40,000 musket cartridges, which I have suspended until I have your orders. If they are issued and the army disbanded, the public will certainly lose them, and if each brigade should ask a similar proportion the number will be immense. I have the honor to be, With the highest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant