[41] _August 21st._ During my stay it camp, I had constant applications for money from almost everybody, as all had claims on the public. I took with me only one hundred and fifty guineas; and, finding so many demands, I thought it best to satisfy none, therefore brought the money back. I had conferences with the Quarter Master General, Paymaster General, Clothier General, Commissary General of Issues, Director General of the Hospitals, and with many other persons; but as these chiefly ran on the wants of themselves and others employed in their departments, I could only recommend the strictest economy in their expenditures, that I might thereby be the better warranted in making reasonable requisitions from the several States; always promising what I mean most punctually to perform, that is, to use my utmost endeavors to establish such revenues, as will enable the regular payment of their salaries and other just demands; but always concluded with assuring them, that this ultimately depended on the several Legislatures, which could only be induced to grant such revenues from a conviction, that their grants would be faithfully and frugally used. I made the same observations to the general officers and others, who spoke to me on money matters. _Diary._ * * * * * TO THE GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA. Office of Finance, August 23d, 1781. Sir, I am just returned from the head quarters of the Commander in Chief, where I have been for some days, in order to confer with him on the various military operations and arrangements, as far as they are connected with the duties of my department. Of consequence the defence of that valuable part of Virginia now invaded, became much a subject of consideration, and I am happy to inform you, that every measure will be pursued for its safety, which is consistent with the general objects of the war. The force in Virginia ought to be very considerable, for reasons, which it is unnecessary to mention to you, who are so well acquainted with the country. But it is necessary to observe that the supplies to this force must be proportionably great. I have already done myself the honor to transmit to your Excellency an account of specific supplies, which have been required by Congress. Virginia stands debited for the whole, and it is not in my power, perhaps not in yours, to state as yet the credit side of that account. Let, however, the amount of the articles already furnished, be what it may, this at least is certain, that I have the command of no money from the several States, which will serve to maintain a force in Virginia. Much, therefore, must depend on the provisions and forage, which that State can call forth.