Writes of the end of the Revolutionary War and his retirement to Mount Vernon, and states, "I shall recollect with pleasure, that we have been Contemporaries & fellow labourers in the cause of liberty, and that we have lived together as Brothers should do - in harmony & friendship." This letter differs in many details with the letter printed in The Writings of George Washington, ed. John C. Fitzpatrick, vol. 27, pp. 316-317.
Concerns financial difficulties in Philadelphia. In response to an appeal from Rochambeau, he says that he is able to furnish only 40 to 60,000 livres, and that money is extremely scarce.
Approves Rochambeau's decision to ignore letters from Washington's intermediaries, and ascribes Lafayette's indiscretions to his inexperience and his desire to have the French army come into action. He also suggests that he consider the use of his troops against Charleston, S.C. if naval superiority is attained, and explains that the public did not understand the good reasons for the inaction of the army.