Greene, Nathanael, Continental General

Autograph letter signed ("N Greene"), 3 pages on a bifolium (9 x 7 3/8 in.; 228 x 188 mm), Headquarters (near Bacon's Bridge, South Carolina), 25 June 1782, to Colonel George Baylor, docketed on verso of second leaf "From Gen: Greene June 25, 1782"; second leaf inlaid, formerly folded, a few small rust spots. [With his:] Last Will and Testament signed, along with the probate of the same, 3 pages, Newport, Rhode Island, 11 October 1785, with remains of wax seal, the probate signed by the judge George Sears and three witnesses, 16 August 1786; silked, all edges and fold tears renewed, browned and soiled. Blue half-morocco drop-box, red morocco gilt-stamped spine label.

Conrad & Parks, Papers of General Nathanael Greene, vol. 11, p. 368 (letter), vol. 13, p. 613 (will)

General Greene introduces a volunteer to the command of Colonel Baylor.

"This will be handed you by Joseph Bee Esq one of the Senate of this State ... He is desirous of joining your regiment as a volunteer for the Campaign in preference to serving with the Militia ... I should like you should admit Mr. Bee from a persuasion he will be of some use to you. I have no desire for admitting many of the Militia to serve as volunteers it being contrary to the wishes of both Governor Mathews and General Marion. Some few may be useful in matters of intelligence as well as in force."

In his Will, General Greene divides his estate between his wife and children, and requests that his executors direct the education of his children: "As I am convinced that the happiness of my Children will depend in an em[inent] degree on their education, it is my last will and earnest request ... that they will attend in a particular manner to the improvement of their understandings ... take an active part in the affairs of their country; their education should be liberal. My daughters should not be less suitable to their stations and circumstances ..."