Prince would facilitate an adjustment of affairs with the mother
country, and a recognition of the United States as an independent
nation.

The following is a copy of the letter of General Washington to Col.
Ogden on the occasion. The whole of the original is in the handwriting
of the General:--

_To Col. Ogden of the 1st Jersey Regiment_.

"Sir,--The spirit of enterprise so conspicuous in your plan for
surprising in their quarters, and bringing off, the Prince
William Henry and Admiral Digby, merits applause; and you have
my authority to make the attempt in any manner and at such a
time as your judgment shall direct.

"I am fully persuaded, that it is unnecessary to caution you
against offering insult or indignity to the persons of the
Prince or Admiral, should you be so fortunate as to capture
them; but it may not be amiss to press the propriety of a proper
line of conduct upon the party you command.

"In case of success, you will, as soon as you get them to a
place of safety, treat them with all possible respect; but you
are to delay no time in conveying them to Congress, and report
your proceedings, with a copy of these orders.

"Given at Morris Town, this 28th day of March, 1782.

"G. WASHINGTON.