John Hanson to Thomas Sim Lee

General Washington Arrived here last Evening, I have not yet had the pleasure of Seeing him, every testimony of Joy and respect will I dare Say be shewn on the Occasion.

Our Labours my Dear sir it is to be hoped are drawing to a period, provided a proper use is made of this winter. Let us not entertain the Sentiment that our late Extraordinary Successes have Superseded the necessity of any further Extraordinary Exertions, as has been too often the Case, but on the Contrary let us Strain every nerve to drive the Enemy from every part of our Country the next Campaign; untill that is done, there Can be but little hopes of peace. While they have Any Military force in the united states and

Can preserve a gleam of hope of Conquering or regaining America; no depredations on their Commerce no loss of Dominion in the East or West Indias, will induce them to make peace, because with America reunited to them, they may think they Could Easily regain whatever they may now loose. One more vigorous Campaign might Effect this purpose, would end all our toils, and Secure to us the Blessings of peace And independence, which we have been So long, and So Virtuously Struggling for.

The British fleet as generally believed has left the hook, and gone to the West Indias. The report we had Some time ago of their having Sent a reinforcemt. to Charles Town, it is probable is not true, As it is pretty Certain, that their whole fleet returned from the Chesapeak, to the Hook And landed their Troops.

Wishing you health And happiness I am my Dear Governor, Your Excellencys most obedt Servt.

John Hanson