friend of liberty was held by the grand Legislature of America.


"_Head Quarters, Morristown, May_ 13, 1780.

"The Marquis Lafayette does me the honor to take charge of this note. I am
persuaded Congress will participate in the joy I feel at the return of a
gentleman who has so signally distinguished himself in the service of this
country; who has given so many and so decided proofs of his attachment to
its interests; and who ought to be dear to it by every motive. The _warm
friendship_ I have for him conspires with considerations of public utility
to afford me a double satisfaction in his return. During the time he has
been in France he has uniformly manifested the same zeal in our affairs,
which animated his conduct while he was among us; and has been, upon all
occasions, an essential friend to America. He merits, and I doubt not
Congress will give him every mark of consideration and regard in their
power.

"I have the honour to be, &c.

"GEO. WASHINGTON."


_To His Excellency the President of Congress_."

"_Philadelphia, May_ 16, 1780.

"After so many favors, which, on every occasion and particularly at my
obtaining leave of absence, Congress were pleased most graciously to bestow
on me, I dare presume myself entitled to impart to them the private