Camp Middlebrook, May 1779, 2-page letter, reading "We have had the inexpressible pleasure of hearing of your safe arrival in France, where I hope you have found your family and friends well, all of whom were no doubt as glad to receive you back as we were unwilling to part with you. Let me assure you [that] all Ranks in the Army were well pleased [---] from you, & express an anxiety for your return to the Army of the United States. This we hope will be the case provided your services to His Majesty are not required in Europe. None of your Friends in America will be more rejoiced to see you than myself [---] of these that the Marquis de Lafayette will be always found where his own Honor & True Glory require him. The situation of our affairs seem very undetermined for the Campaign, the Enemy have attack[ed] us in Georgia, & gained some advantages [in that] quarter (owing to our weakness to the south) whether they man to prosecute the [w]ar at that end of the Continent, or only to divert our attention that way, & draw the Troops from the North, I am not able yet to discover. The Capture of their Ships with a convoy of provisions & stores by the Continental Frigates on the 7th April will give them a sensible check. Great Reinforements from England are talked of with much confidence, but wheather these Boasts will be realized, you know much better than we do. His Excellency Genl Washington is (thank God) in perfect health & reigns in the Hearts of every Officer & Soldier in the Army. You know how this matter is much better than I am able to express it. The Genl Officers & indeed the whole army injoy the most perfect state of Health. From the many instances I have had of your Friendship & attention to me, I am induced to take the liberty to request your care of the inclosed Letter to a Brother of mine who I have not heard from these seven Years. Should [---] as to have my letter reach him. I have allso taken a further freedom to desire him to direct for me to your care at Paris. I shall esteem myself much Honour'd by [a] line from your. I am with every se[ntiment] of Respect & Esteem. Dear Marquis Your Most Obedt & m[ost Humble] Sevt Wm Woodfo[rd] Brig. Genl. Cont. Army"
Mounted and reinforced with fine linen, 12 1/2 x 13 in.