George Washington to William Fairfax, May 5, 1755
extracted from
The Writings of George Washington, Volume II, by Jared Sparks
(Boston: Charles Tappan, 1846), page 75
To William Fairfax.
Winchester, 5 May, 1755.
Dear Sir,
I overtook the General at Frederic Town, in Maryland. Thence we proceeded to this place, where we shall remain till the arrival of the second division of the train, which we hear left Alexandria on Tuesday last. After that, we shall continue our march to Will's Creek' from whence, it is imagined, we shall not stir till the latter end of this month, for want of wagons and other conveniences of transport over the mountains.
You will naturally conclude, that to pass through Maryland, when no object required it, was an uncommon, and an extraordinary route for the General and for Colonel Dunbar's regiment to this place. The reason, however, was obvious. Those who promoted it had rather the communication should be opened that way, than through Virginia; but I believe the eyes of the General are now opened, and the imposition detected; consequently, the like will not happen again. I am, &c.