Make my compliments to Mrs. and Miss De Visme, and believe me, with
the sincerest friendship,
Yours,
JAMES MONROE
Mr. Peter De Visme, the brother of Mrs. Prevost, was captured at sea,
and made prisoner of war. As she was personally acquainted with
General Washington, she solicited his influence to promote his
exchange, to which the general replied:--
Headquarters, Middlebrook, 19th May, 1779.
MADAM,
It is much to be regretted that the pleasure of obeying the first
emotions in favour of misfortune is not always in our power. I should
be happy could I consider myself at liberty to comply with your
request in the case of your brother, Mr. Peter De Visme. But, as I
have heretofore taken no direction in the disposal of marine
prisoners, I cannot, with propriety, interfere on the present
occasion, however great the satisfaction I should feel in obliging
where you are interested. Your good sense will perceive this, and find
a sufficient excuse in the delicacy of my situation.
I have the honour to be, madam,
Your obedient servant,
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
FROM WILLIAM PATTERSON.
Morristown, 29th September, 1779.
DEAR BURR,
About four weeks ago I received a letter from you of the 8th of
August, and, a week after, another of the 23d. They came by the way of
Moorestown, from which to Rariton, where I reside. The conveyance is
easy and safe.
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