ALS, signed 'G. Washington,' one page, both sides, 8.25 x 12.5, April 21, 1777. Letter of instruction to commander of his guards, Captain Caleb Gibbs. In part, 'Pay Mrs. Thompson and fall upon some method of sending her home or to any place she'd chuse [sic] for it is not possible she can be of any use to me in a moving camp which ours must soon become, nor can such a kind of life be agreeable to her, I should think. Bring my mattrass [sic] or send it as also my Postmaster's Trunk...my sword, my gun and can had also better be brought unless they could be put into the hands of some gentleman in Philadelphia that would take particular care of them. If they were near here Mrs. Washington could take them with her. The large trunk contains, I believe, our table linens; and other articles of use, and must therefore be sent on to this place. As to the remaining part of our baggage you will be a proper judge what of it to send forward and what to those there or send elsewhere. Such articles as you know will be wanted for the use of our family, you will endeavor to provide at Philadelphia, and have sent on in proper kinds of waggons [sic]. The Gentleman of the family who have baggage at New Town will give you directions about it. As I expect to lodge on my Lake this summer, I wish you would get for me...a course carpet of the same size to keep the Damps from me. I desired Mr. Gibbs...to have me a bearskin housing made, enquire of him what directions he gave and let it be brought up. Also get me 6 lbs. of...powder and if it can be nicely done have my arms engraved in silver, if it cannot be well done in steel. My papers at New Town, take with you to Philadelphia, and have them well received in a good trunk or strong box and lodged with the Publick Papers of Congress. If these papers formerly sent to Congress are still in Philadelphia one package might be made to contain the whole. The Adjutant Gen.'s papers should also be securely packed and deposited with mine. My bedstead if it is not already here should be sent up with my baggage. Capt. Lewis with his troop should proceed to this place and can expect our baggage....You will settle with and pay Mrs. Harris what shall appear reasonable for the trouble and expense we have put her to.' Washington goes on to add a postscript, 'Get me a new bridle and give black velvet jockey cap.' Second integral page contains instructions in another hand, presumably Gibbs, with notations along the lines of Washington's instructions. In good condition, with several areas of text very light, scattered soiling and staining, several small holes and separations along folds, several small well done silk repairs, and integral page mostly separated from the main letter. The signature is clear and unaffected, although the writing is somewhat light. COA John Reznikoff/University Archives and RRAuction COA.
