Henry Gilbert Livingston to John Jay, 23 February 1777

Rhinebeck 23 d . Feb y . 1777.

Sir

Would esteem it a favor, when you write Gen l . Washington, you–€™d assure him from me that my Intentions were not Inimical to my Country going in York, but thought I could have been of service, & was in hopes to have return–€™d immediately, which I could have done, had not the treachery of Wallace prevented–€” 1 Am in hopes my future Conduct will convince the World I ever did & do now love my country equal to any person existing & as a farther Testimony of which, if agreeable to Gen l . Washington, will immediately join the Army in his department, as a Volunteer or any other Capacity most agreable to him, for I think I can be of singular Service there by encouraging the Soldiery [and] acquainting them with facts which I know [by] experience. This is the advice of some of my best friends, particularly M r . Duer whose friendship I–€™ve often experienced–€” I want my Zeal in this cause to be as conspicuous & held in the esteem it formerly was, & no pains or risque shall be wanting to accomplish it. I make no doubt but your friendship will readily be given to restore a person to the love of his Country who has undeservedly lost it. Y r . hum: Serv.

H. G. Livingston

NB. Be pleased send the york papers & the [ illegible ] to [Toompers?]