Arbuthnot, Marriot, 1711-1794 to George Washington
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04758 Author/Creator: Arbuthnot, Marriot, 1711-1794 Place Written: New York, New York Type: Letter signed Date: 21 April 1781 Pagination: 2 p. : Height: 32.7 cm, Width: 20 cm Order a Copy
Written by Admiral Arbuthnot as commander of British naval forces in America to Washington as commander of the Continental Army. References Washington's letter of 25 January 1781 where he expressed anger over the treatment of American naval prisoners of war. Arbuthnot claims an inquiry was held that vindicated their treatment and feeding, which he validates on "my honor." Claims Washington "must have seen" the testimonies of the inquiry. Retorts with accusations against British naval prisoners in Philadelphia by Commissary General of Prisoners Thomas Bradford. Claims prisoners are experiencing "inhumanity" under Bradford. Will not burden Washington with a list of grievances, but asks that the sailors be fed more than salted clams. One of the long edges has tape about three-fourths of the way down. Written aboard the "HMS Royal Oak".
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