feelings, which I now so happily experience.

"In an early epoch in our noble contest, I gloried in the name of an
American soldier; and heartily enjoyed the honor I have of serving the
United States; my satisfaction is at this long wished-for moment entirely
complete, when putting an end to my furlough, I have been able again to
join my colours, under which I hope for opportunities of indulging the
ardent zeal, the unbounded gratitude, the warm, and I might say, the
patriotic love, by which I am forever bound to America.

"I beg you, sir, to present Congress with a new assurance of my profound
respect and my grateful and affectionate sentiments.

"I have the honour to be, &c.

"LAFAYETTE"

In Congress, May 16, 1780. "Resolved, That Congress consider the return of
the Marquis LAFAYETTE to America, to resume his command in the army, as a
fresh proof of the distinguished zeal and deserving attachment which have
justly recommended him to the public confidence and applause; and that they
receive with pleasure, a tender of further services of so gallant and
meritorious an officer."

"Soon after his return to America the Marquis was entrusted with the
command of a select corps of the Light Infantry of the continental army.
This afforded him a new opportunity for the display of his munificence. He
presented each officer of the corps with an elegant sword; and the soldiers
were clothed in uniform, principally at his expense. He infused into this
corps a spirit of pride and emulation; viewing it as one formed according