564. ARNOLD (Benedict), Expedition to Quebec.—[continued].
I never understood that
Arnold formed this enterprise, nor do I believe
he did. I heard and saw all General Washington's
letters on this subject. I do not think
he mentioned Arnold as author of the proposition;
yet he was always just in ascribing to
every officer the merit of his own works; and
he was disposed particularly in favor of
Arnold. This officer is entitled to great merit
in the execution, but to ascribe to him that of
having formed the enterprise, is probably to
ascribe to him what belongs to General Wash
ington or some other person.—
Answers to M. Soules. Washington ed. ix, 301.
Ford ed., iv, 300.
(P.
1786)
