In November following, the Marquis returned to France, having first
obtained the consent of Congress, and of the commander in chief. The
contest between Great Britain and the United States, was drawing to a
close. The former became satisfied of the impossibility of subduing
America: and the latter was anxious to terminate a war, which had exhausted
her finances, and occasioned an oppressive debt. The resolves of Congress,
with reference to the departure of General Lafayette at this period,
exhibits, in a very favorable light, the important services he had rendered
the country, in the critical situation in which it had been placed.

In Congress, Nov. 1781. "Resolved, That Major General Lafayette have
permission to go to France, and to return at such time as may be most
agreeable to himself--that he be informed, that, on a view of his conduct
throughout the past campaign, and particularly during the period, in which
he had the chief command in Virginia, the many new proofs which present
themselves of his zealous attachment to the cause he has espoused, and of
his judgment, vigilance, gallantry and address in its defence, have greatly
added to the high opinion entertained by Congress of his merits and
military talents--that he make known to the officers and troops whom he
commanded during that period, that the brave and enterprizing services,
with which they seconded his zeal and efforts, and which enabled him to
defeat the attempts of an enemy, far superior in numbers, have been beheld
by Congress, with particular satisfaction and approbation.--That the
Secretary of foreign affairs acquaint the Ministers Plenipotentiaries of
the United States, that it is the desire of Congress, that they confer with
the Marquis Lafayette, and avail of his information, relative to the
situation of public affairs in the United States--That the Secretary for
foreign affairs, further acquaint the Minister Plenipotentiary at the Court
of Versailles, that he will conform to the intention of Congress, by
consulting with, and employing the assistance of the Marquis Lafayette, in