Autograph letter signed : Valley Forge, to [Elbridge Gerry], 1777 Dec. 25.

Referring to his last letters to Congress which were "very explicit and expressive of the wants of this Army" and recognizing his "past experience of delay", he asks for assistance in having a Committee of Congress, or from the War Board, be "sent to Camp to consult with me...on the best regulations, arrangements, and Plans for the next Campaign..;" expressing his hope that if such a Committee were formed their powers "might not be confined to particular matters, but generl. and extensive; Congress reservg. to themselves the right of approving or disapproving the proceedings. Our whole Military might then be considered, and such alterations as should be found necessary and beneficial, and that circumstances would admit of, be adopted;" adding that he would be obliged to him if he would remember the "additional Aids" he mentioned; adding "I find, especially at times; the multiplicity of writing, and other business too great for those I have. Congress may be assured I do not want to run the public to any unnecessary expence on this Acct. and that I shall be as sparing as possible in my appointments under the Indulgence they may give;" adding, in a postscript signed with his initials, that if "Congress mean to adopt the half pay establishment. &c. much good would result from announcing it soon; that all Officers who should be retaind, under the New regulations, may know at once what they have to trust to; this would, probably, begin the desired reformation in the Army whereas, under uncertainty and doubt, things at best, will jog on as usual."