From George Washington to William Heath, 23 September 1781

Dear Sir,

Williamsburg 23d Sepr 1781

I received your Favor ⅌ Messenger Kane—I have now to inform you that I arrived at this Place on the 14th and findg it necessary to have a personal Interview with the Count de Grasse, I paid him a Visit on Board the Ville de Paris, at Cape Henry—from whence I am just returned; after a very decisive Conversation with the Count, Upon Matters which may prove very interesting in our present Operations.

The Troops & Stores from the Head of Elk, are this Day disembarkg—the Remainder are soon expected—Our Operations are fast ripening to their Commencement—& in a few Days I expect to find myself before the Works of the Enemy—By Information, Lord Cornwallis is incessantly at Work on his Fortifications, & is probably preparing to defend himself to the last Extremity—a little Time will probably decide his Fate—with the Blessing of Heavens, I trust it will prove favorable to the Interest of America.

I find great Embarrassments from the Want of sufficient Provisions & Means of Transportation—but, with proper Exertions, these Difficulties I hope will be soon removed—With Respect & Esteem I am Dear Sir Your most Obt Servt

Go: Washington

MHi: Heath Papers.

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