In a word, instead of having every thing in readiness to take the field, we have nothing.

And instead of having the prospect of a glorious offensive campaign before us, we have a bewildered and gloomy prospect of a defensive one; unless we should receive a powerful aid of ships, land troops and money from our generous allies: and these at present are too contingent to build upon." NOTE--No.

VI.

_See Page 405_ York in Virginia, 17th October, 1781, half past four, P.M.
SIR,--I have this moment been honoured with your excellency's letter dated this day.

The time limited for sending my answer will not admit of entering into the details of articles, but the basis of my proposals will be, that the garrisons of York and Gloucester shall be prisoners of war with the customary honours; and for the convenience of the individuals which I have the honour to command, that the British shall be sent to Britain, and the Germans to Germany, under engagements not to serve against France, America, or their allies, until released or regularly exchanged.