Head Quarters, New Windsor, July 10, 1779
Sir:
I have this moment received your letter of the 9th.1 I wish mine of the same date had gotten to hand before the transaction you mention had taken place. I fear it will have a bad effect both in the army and in the country.
I would by no means have you to carry into execution your plan of diversifying the punishment, or in any way to exceed the spirit of my instruction yesterday. And even the measure I have authorized ought to be practiced with great caution.
I am, etc.
1 Lee’s letter of July 9 is not found in the Washington Papers.
2 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.