From George Washington to Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle Duportail, 19 October 1783

Dr Sir

Rocky hill 19 Octr 83

Genl Laumoy and Colo. Gouvion did me Justice in mentioning the Regret I feel at your intention of leaving this Country—the personal attachment which naturally grows out of such a length of service together had I no other motive would occasion a regret at parting but it is considerably heightend by your quitting the service and thereby depriving me of the hope of seeing you return to benefit the Country by your abilities and Experience in your possession, if such an Establishment as this great Empire ought to adopt for the Peace of it should be finally agreed to, but which at this moment is yet undecided.

It would afford me much pleasure to tell you this personally before your departure, but If I should not have this satisfaction I beg you to be assured that you carry with you every good wish I can form for you, and that I shall ever retain a grateful sense of the Aids I have derived from your knowledge and advice and more especially for the repeated testimonials I have recd of your friendship and attachment to me. I am with very great regard &c.

DLC: Papers of George Washington.

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