the highest regard, &c.

LAFAYETTE."


"_In Congress, Oct_. 21. 1778.

"_Resolved_, That the Marquis Lafayette, Major General in the services of
the United States, have leave to go to France; and that he return at such
time as shall be most convenient to him,--Resolved, That the President
write a letter to the Marquis Lafayette, returning him the thanks of
Congress for that disinterested zeal which led him to America, and for the
services he hath rendered to the United States, by the exertion of his
courage and abilities on many signal occasions.

"_Resolved_, That the Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of
America, at the Court of Versailles, be directed to cause an elegant sword,
with proper devices to be made and presented in the name of the United
States, to the Marquis Lafayette."

The foregoing resolves were communicated to the Marquis in the following
letter:


"_Philadelphia, Oct_. 24, 1778.

"SIR,

"I had the honor of presenting to Congress, your letter, soliciting leave of
absence: I am directed by them, to express their thanks for your zeal in