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GEORGE WASHINGTON
BICENTENNIAL EDITION
THE WRITINGS OF
GEORGE WASHINGTON
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Last Page of Proceedings of the Trial of Major Andre
THE fFRITINGS OF
George
Washington
from the
Original Manuscript Sources
1745-1799
Prepared under the direction of the United States
George Washington Bicentennial Commission
and published by authority of Congress
John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor
Volume 20
September 6, 1780 - December 20, 1780
United States
Government Printing Office
Washington
fW
PRINTED
JULY, 1937
\Z*2»0
UNITED STATES GEORGE WASHINGTON
BICENTENNIAL COMMISSION
(The Commission expired December 31, 1934)
President of the United States
Chairman
Vice President of the United States
Speaker of the House of Representatives
United States Senate
SlMEON D. Fess,* Vice Chairman
Ohio
Arthur Capper
Kansas
Carter Glass
Virginia
Millard E. Tydings
Maryland
House of Representatives
Willis C. Hawley
Oregon
John Q. Tilson
Connecticut
Joseph W. Byrns *
Tennessee
R. Walton Moore
Virginia
Presidential Commissioners
Mrs. Anthony Wayne Cook
Pennsylvania
Mrs. John Dickinson Sherman ■
Colorado
Henry Ford
Michigan
George Eastman *
New York
Executive Committee
C. Bascom Slemp
Virginia
Wallace McCamant
Oregon
Albert Bushnell Hart
Massachusetts
Joseph Scott
California
The Senate and House
Commissioners
C. Bascom Slemp
Mrs. Anthony Wayne Cook
Joseph Scott
Executive Secretary
William Tyler Page
Historian
Prof. Albert Bushnell Hart
Director
Representative Sol Bloom
•Deceased.
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
ON THE WRITINGS
Dr. J. Franklin Jameson, Chairman
Chair of American History and Chief of Manuscripts Division
Library of Congress
Professor Randolph G. Adams
Librarian William L. Clements Library
University of Michigan
President J. A. C. Chandler*
William and Mary College
President Tyler Dennett
Williams College
Dr. Charles Moore
Chairman United States Commission of Fine Arts
George W. Ochs-Oakes, Esq.*
Editor, New York Times
Brigadier General John M. Palmer
United States Army, Retired
Dr. Victor Hugo Paltsits
Chief of American History Division
and Chief of Manuscripts Department
New York Public Library
* Deceased.
[v]
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1780
Page
To Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, September 6 1
Professions of friendship — No attempt to discredit him has been
made — Wayne's need of harmony.
To Governor Thomas Sim Lee, September 6 . . . . 2
Gates defeated — Maryland recruits to march south.
To the President of Congress, September 6 3
A general arrangement respecting depreciation of pay desired — Dis-
crimination injurious — Distress for meat.
To the Board of War, September 6 4
Maryland regiment ordered south.
Impress Warrant, September 6 5
Council of War, September 6 5
General Orders, September 6 9
To Major General Benedict Arnold, September 7 10
Approves his orders — Defeat of Gates.
General Orders, September 7 11
To Colonel Ephraim Blaine, September 7 12
Rum for the Army.
To Major General William Heath, September 8 ... 12
Massachusetts Militia at Rhode Island — Defeat of Gates.
General Orders, September 8 13
To the President of Congress, September 8 . . . . i^j.
Asks for an explanation of powers conferred upon him — Future sup-
plies— Specie — Abilities of the Carolinas to furnish supplies — Inability
to plan a cooperation on account of the coming shrinkage of the Army.
To Comte de Rochambeau, September 8 15
Intelligence — The defeat of Gates — Interview at Hartford.
To Chevalier de Ternay, September 8 16
The interview at Hartford.
[VII]
viii WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To Samuel Meredith, September 9 17
Efforts of the bank to help the Army.
To Major General Benedict Arnold, September 9 17
Furnishing men for Colonel Hay.
To Joseph Jones, September 9 18
The Medical Department — Doctors Craik and Cochran.
To John Mathews, September 9 19
New arrangement of the medical department — Recommends the re-
tention of certain men.
To Major Generals Nathanael Greene, Lord Stirling,
and Lafayette, September 9 20
Pickets and patrols.
To Brigadier General Peter Muhlenberg, September 9 . 20
Escaped prisoners — Arms and clothing for the levies.
To the President of Congress, September 9 21
Goods captured from the Quebec fleet — Need of clothing — Impor-
tance of the matter — General Nixon's resignation.
General Orders, September 9 22
To the President of Congress, September 10 ... 23
Salt beef and pork.
General Orders, September 10 24
To Major General William Heath, September 10 . . 25
Report of a fleet — Arms for Colonel Greene's regiment.
Instructions for Spies, September 10 26
To Major General Benjamin Lincoln, September 10 27
Interview with General Phillips — An exchange negotiation — Will
send Mr. Skinner to attend the meeting.
To Comte de Rochambeau, September 11 .... 28
Admiral Arbuthnot's location — Reports of a fleet.
To Governor Thomas Jefferson, September 11 ... 29
Gates's losses — Arms thrown away— Clothing from France — Tobacco
for prisoners — Provision deficiency at Charlottesville — Recall of Mary-
land regiment from the south — British embarkation at New York.
General Orders, September 11 31
To Sir Henry Clinton, September 11 32
Requests passport for supply vessel for prisoners.
General Orders, September 11 32
TABLE OF CONTENTS ix
Page
To President James Bowdoin, September 12 .... 34
The second division of the French — Need of salt provisions — Beef — —
and pork captured from the Quebec fleet — Distress for meat.
To Governor John Rutledge, September 12 ... 36
His intended visit — Importance of the south — Raising of troops — Re-
sources of the south.
To Chevalier de La Luzerne, September 12 ... 38
Letter to Comte de Guichen — The situation.
To Comte de Guichen, September 12 ...... 39
Lafayette's mission — Blockade of French fleet at Brest — Chevalier de
Ternay blockaded at Rhode Island — General situation of affairs — Reen-
forcement to the southward dependent on a naval superiority — Coop-
eration— Interests of France and America the same — No plan of precise
cooperation can be submitted — Advantage of reducing New York.
To Colonel Nehemiah Hubbard, September 13 . . . 43
Quarters in Hartford at the coming conference.
To Captain William Dobbs, September 13 ... 43
Need of pilots.
To Comte de Rochambeau, September 13 ... 44
Probable British embarkation.
To the President of Congress, September 13 ... 44
Stockbridge Indians.
To Comte de Rochambeau, September 13 ... . 45
Coming of Comte de Guichen.
General Orders, September 13 46
To Major General William Heath, September 13 . . 47
French fleet in the West Indies.
General Orders, September 14 47
To Major General Benedict Arnold, September 14 . . 47
Sending cannon — Withdrawing batteaumen — Flour.
To Nathaniel Peabody, September 14 ..... . 48
French fleet from the West Indies.
General Orders, September 15 49
To the President of Congress, September 15 ... . 49
The Carolina disaster shows the fatal consequences of depending on
the militia — The south still believes in militia — Magazines needed —
Death of General Poor — Quartermaster's certificates — No detachment
can be sent south.
x WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To the Board of War, September 15 52
Supplies for prisoners — Clothing — Returns of officers.
To George Walton, Edward Telfair, and William Few,
September 15 53
Exchange of Lieut. Thomas Morris.
To Colonel Timothy Pickering, September 15 54
His presence with the Army — Quartermaster business.
To Colonel Clement Biddle, September 15 ... 55
His continuance until Colonel Pickering arrives at camp — Congress
will be informed.
Conference with Rochambeau, September 15 56
To Thomas Mumford, September 15 57
Madeira wine.
To Major General Nathanael Greene, September 16 58
Instructions.
To Colonel William Malcom, September 16 . 59
Distress for provisions — Supply for Fort Schuyler. ——
To Major William Crane, September 16 60
Conference between Generals Lincoln and Phillips.
To Captains John Carlisle, Michael Gilbert, John
Hughes, and Lieutenant Joseph Lewis, Septem-
ber 16 60
Messenger to Governor Lee.
To Major Benjamin Tallmadge, September 16 . . . 61
To Major General William Phillips, September 16 . . 62
Paroles — His meeting with General Lincoln.
Impress Warrant, September 16 62
General Orders, September 16 63
To Chevalier de Ternay, September 16 64
Report of a British fleet.
General Orders, September 17 65
To Sir Henry Clinton, September 17 67
Exchange of John Burke for Lieutenant Morris.
To Abraham Skinner, September 17 67
Instructions.
TABLE OF CONTENTS xi
Page
General Orders, September 18 71
General Orders, September 19 72
General Orders, September 20 74
General Orders, September 21 75
Conference at Hartford, September 22 76
Conference at Hartford, September 22 79
Summary.
General Orders, September 22 81
General Orders, September 24 82
General Orders, September 25 83
To Colonel James Livingston, September 25 ... 84
To come at once.
To Colonel John Lamb, September 25 84
Command at Stony and Verplanck's Points.
To Major General Nathanael Greene, September 25 84
Troops to march at once.
To Colonel Nathaniel Wade, September 25 ... 85
Arnold has gone to the enemy — Command of West Point devolves
upon him — Caution and vigilance enjoined.
To Lieutenant Colonel Ebenezer Gray, September 25 . 86
His regiment to march without delay.
To Lieutenant Colonel John Jameson, September 25 86
Andre must not escape — To be sent to Robinson's House.
To Major Caleb Low, September 25 87
Orders to march.
To the Officer Commanding Woodcutting Party, Sep-
tember 25 87
To march to Fishkill.
To William M. Betts, September 25 88
Orders for the wood cutters.
To Major General William Heath, September 26 . . 88
Ordered to repair to West Point — Arnold's treason — Andre's capture.
To Colonel Nathaniel Wade, September 26 ... 89
Provisions and water for West Point.
xii WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To Doctor Isaac Ledyard, September 26 90
Seizure of Joshua Hett Smith's papers.
To Doctor Isaac Ledyard, September 26 90
Thomas Smith — Arrest of Joshua Hett Smith — His help to Andre.
To the President of Congress, September 26 .... 91
Circumstances of Arnold's treason — The conduct of Andre's captors.
To Governor George Clinton, September 26 ... 93
Arnold's treason and escape.
General Orders, September 26 94
General Orders, September 27 96
To Comte de Rochambeau, September 27 ... . 97
Arnold's treason.
To Major General Nathanael Greene, September 27 97
Andre and Smith sent to camp — Directions for guarding them.
To the Officer Commanding at West Point and Its De-
pendencies, September 27 98
Distribution of troops for the defense of West Point.
To Major General Alexander McDougall, Septem-
ber 27 99
To command at West Point.
General Orders, September 28 99
General Orders, September 29 100
To Major General Alexander McDougall or Officer
Commanding at West Point, September 29 . 100
Flour deficiency.
To the Board of General Officers, September 29 ... 101
Examination of Major Andre.
General Orders, September 30 10 1
To Lieutenant General James Robertson, September 30 . 102
Delay of his letter — Necessaries for Major Andre.
To Sir Henry Clinton, September 30 103
Major Andre's confession.
Instructions for Spies Going Into New York, Septem-
ber 104
TABLE OF CONTENTS xiii
Page
To the President of Congress, October i 105
Want of flour — Grass forage — Relief must come before winter.
To Major General Arthur St. Clair, October 1 . . . 106
Instructions.
To Governor George Clinton, October 1 108
Need of flour for West Point.
To President Joseph Reed, October 1 108
Scarcity of flour — Supply at West Point.
General Orders, October 1 . 109
General Orders, October 2 . 112
To Lieutenant Colonel Levi Wells, October 2 ... 112
Return to his former station.
General Orders, October 3 112
General Orders, October 4 113
To John Mathews, October 4 113
Independence will never be established until an army is enlisted for
the war — Ruin must follow occasional or annual levies — Enormous
waste and expense involved — Jealousy of a standing army — Exchanges
of prisoners against us — Reception of the Committee of Cooperation in
Congress.
To James Duane, October 4 117
A shorter period of enlistment than for one year inadmissible — Con-
gress should have proper power — History of the war a history of false
hopes and expedients — The interview at Hartford.
To Otis & Henley, October 4 119
Need of blankets — Woolen overalls, stockings and other clothing.
To James Wilkinson, October 5 120
Clothing prospects.
To Cornelius Haring, October 5 120
Meeting of commissaries.
General Orders, October 5 . 121
To Brigadier General John Cadwalader, October 5 . 121
Failure of the campaign — Favorable aspect of affairs in Europe prom-
ised success — Nothing ahead but accumulating distress — Living upon
expedients until living is impossible — Need of a regular army — Ineffi-
cacy of State supplies — Cadwalader's regret at not accepting a com-
mand— A place open in his family.
General Orders, October 6 124
xiv WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To Major General Nathanael Greene, October 6 . . 125
Disposition of the Army uncertain — Command at West Point — Wash-
ington may take it himself.
To Major General Nathanael Greene, October 6 . . 126
Instructions.
To Major General Arthur St. Clair, October 6 ... 128
March of Pennsylvania brigade.
To Sir Henry Clinton, October 6 128
Seizure of South Carolina civilians.
To Brigadier General Athony Wayne, October 6 . . 129
March of the Pennsylvania brigade.
General Orders, October 7 129
To Major John Mauritius Goetchius, October 7 . . . 130
Garrison of blockhouse at Dobbs Ferry.
To the President of Congress, October 7 130
Andre's trial and execution — Note about Colonel Sheldon to be in-
serted in the publication of Andre's case — British efforts to save Andre —
Exchange of prisoners — Reward recommended for captors of Andre —
Disposition of the Army.
To Sir Henry Clinton, October 7 134
Exchange of prisoners.
To Abraham Skinner, October 7 135
Exchange negotiations.
To Major General Horatio Gates, October 8 .... 136
The defeat at Camden a great shock — Condition of the main Army —
Evil of temporary enlistments — A British embarkation for the south-
ward— Comte de Guichen.
To Officer Commanding at Dobbs Ferry, October 8 . 139
Reenforcement sent him — Instructions in case of British move up the
River — Defense of the post.
General Orders, October 8 140
General Orders, October 9 141
To Doctor Benjamin Franklin, October 9 . . . . 142
Lafayette's enthusiasm — Proposed tour of Europe — Aid of money
from France.
To Major General Nathanael Greene, October 10 . 143
Returns to be made.
TABLE OF CONTENTS xv
Page
To Major John Keese, October 10 143
Packet for Rochambeau.
To Lieutenant Colonel Dubuysson, October 10 . . .144
Death of Baron de Kalb — His exchange parole.
To Governor Thomas Jefferson, October 10 ... . 145
Colonel Wood and the Convention troops — New Levies — State of
supplies for the Army — Coercive measures used — The French fleet —
Cornwallis's report on Camden — His severity — Reduction of Detroit —
Powder supply — Perfidy of Arnold — Protection of West Point.
To Comte de Rochambeau, October 10 150
Regrets the inactive campaign — Execution of the British adjutant
general.
General Orders, October 10 151
General Orders, October 11 152
To Robert Morris, October 11 154
Captain Muir's parole.
To Colonel James Wood, October 11 155
Treatment of prisoners at Charlottesville — Would prefer him to re-
main in charge — -Exchange of officers of the Convention troops
To the President of Congress, October 11 157
Resolutions submitted for his comments — Differs in opinion from
Congress — Reduction of the regiments— Temper of the Army — Effects
of the last reduction — Feeling of the officers — Half pay for life or whole
pay for seven years — Question of expense — The military profession in
European countries — Aggregate of men called for by Congress too
small — Strength of the enemy — Force needed for cooperation with the
French — Proposed constitution of a regiment — Number of officers to a
regiment at present insufficient — The legionary corps — Partisan corps —
Their commanders — Limited term of service an objection — Enlistments
must fail — Congress should take charge of the reduction and incorpora-
tion of the regiments — Time presses and action is needed — A new estab-
lishment is needed.
To Mrs. Mary Lee, October 11 168
Exertions of the Maryland ladies — Need of shirts.
General Orders, October 12 168
To Major General Nathanael Greene, October 12 . . 169
Bake ovens and a bread supply for West Point.
To Colonel Henry Neill, October 12 169
Dismissal of his militia regiment — Thanks for its services.
To the Board of War, October 12 170
Lieutenants' commissions — Commissions for other officers.
xvi WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To Major General Robert Howe, October 12 . ... 171
Payment for rum.
To Comte de Rochambeau, October 12 172
Artillery — British embarkation at New York.
To Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, October 13 . . 172
An interposition of Providence conspicuous in the discovery of
Arnold's plot — Circumstances of Andre's capture — Arnold's character.
To Maria Josef a Elirio de la Puente, October 13 . . . 174
Condolences.
To the President of Congress, October 13 175
Baron Steuben's mission.
To Colonel Daniel Broadhead, October 13 ... . 175
Approval of court-martial sentences — Want of provisions — Expedi-
tion against Detroit — Provisions for Fort Pitt.
To Francisco Rendon, October 13 177
Thanks for intelligence — Rendon 's mission.
To Major Henry Lee, October 13 178
His investigation — Wishes to see him.
General Orders, October 13 178
To Comte de Rochambeau, October 14 179
Winter quarters for the French.
To Major General William Heath, October 14 . . . 180
To take command at West Point.
To Major General Alexander McDougall, October 14 . 181
Command at West Point.
To Major General Nathanael Greene, October 14 . . 181
The court of inquiry upon Gates — Wishes Greene to command at the
south — The southern delegates in his favor — Heath to succeed him at
West Point.
To Brigadier Generals John Glover and John Paterson,
October 14 183
Arrangement of captains and subalterns — Errors to be rectified.
General Orders, October 14 185
To Abraham Skinner, October 14 185
Exchange of Lieutenant Governor Hamilton cannot take place — In-
terview with British commissary.
General Orders, October 15 186
TABLE OF CONTENTS xvii
Page
To John Adam, October 15 188
Letter for Abraham Skinner.
To the President of Congress, October 15 189
Court of inquiry on General Gates — Greene to command to the south-
ward— Arnold's address to the inhabitants of America — Intelligence
from New York — A spy's fear of Arnold.
To the President of Congress, October 15 190
Resident commissary of prisoners in New York.
To the President of Congress, October 15 191
Henry Laurens's capture.
To the President of Congress, October 16 192
Imprisonment of South Carolinians by the British — Cornwallis's con-
duct— Exchanges — British irruption from Canada.
To Governor George Clinton, October 16 ... 193
Advance of British — Regiments sent north.
To Sir Henry Clinton, October 16 194
Complaints — Cornwallis's and Rawdon's severity.
To Major General Nathanael Greene, October 16 . 195
Regiments sent to the northern frontier — Militia.
To Major General Nathanael Greene, October 16 . . 196
Witnesses in Joshua Hett Smith's trial.
To Brigadier Generals John Glover and John Paterson,
October 16 196
Rank of captains in Massachusetts line.
To Colonel William Malcom, October 16 ... 197
Provisions for Fort Schuyler — Position of the post — Size of garrison.
To Colonel John Lamb, October 16 198
His presence at a court-martial.
General Orders, October 16 199
General Orders, October 17 . 202
To Brigadier General Peter Muhlenberg, October 17 . 202
Clothing supply.
To the President of Congress, October 17 203
Sailing of a fleet from New York.
To Major Benjamin Tallmadge, October 17 . . . . 203
Secret service matters.
xviii WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
Circular to the States, October 18 204
State of the troops — New establishment of the Army — Levies for
the war — System of temporary enlistment — Militia — Waste of sup-
plies— Annual dispersal of the Army — British accomplishments due to
weakness of the Army — Cause of the loss of Canada — High prices —
Perseverance of the enemy — Attempt to carry on the war with militia —
Abandonment of temporary expedients — Deranged state of the fi-
nances— Resignations of officers — Necessity of acting with vigor.
To President Joseph Reed, October 18 213
Arnold's perfidy — His confidence, folly, and villainy — Washington's
reported confidence in Arnold — Conversation with General Schuyler —
Confidence in him.
To Major General Nathanael Greene, October 18 . . 215
Difficulties of Greene's new command.
To Major General William Heath, October 18 . 216
His arrival at West Point.
To Comte de Rochambeau, October 18 216
British fleet sailing from New York — A fleet arrived from England.
General Orders, October 18 217
General Orders, October 19 217
To President Joseph Reed, October 19 218
No distinction as to prisoners of war in exchanges — Cases of Simcoe
and Conolly — Citizens and military prisoners — General principles —
Length of captivity — Major Murray's case.
General Orders, October 20 222
To Major Henry Lee, October 20 223
Proposed attempt to capture Arnold — He must be brought in alive —
To be made a public example — Cautions.
To Governor William Livingston, October 20 . . . 224
To Major Benjamin Tallmadge, October 21 .... 224
Light weight gold — Information desired.
To Major General William Heath, October 21 ... 225
Court of inquiry on Lieutenant Colonel Varick and Major Franks.
To Governor George Clinton, October 21 ... . 225
Letter from Mr. Duer about Mr. Smith.
To William Duer, October 21 226
His letter forwarded to Governor Clinton.
TABLE OF CONTENTS xix
Page
To Major General William Heath, October 21 . . . 226
Disposition of troops at West Point — Removal of stores — The French
minister.
To Brigadier General Henry Knox, October 21 . . . 227
Mr. Garanger's artillery experiments.
To Colonel Christopher Greene, October 21 . . . . 228
His regiment — Pardon of a death penalty.
To Lieutenant Colonel Richard Varick, October 21 . . 228
Scope of inquiry into his conduct.
To Colonel Moses Hazen, October 21 229
Exchange of prisoners.
To Major David S. Franks, October 21 229
His court of inquiry.
To the President of Congress, October 21 230
The British in Carolina and at the north — Situation of Fort Pitt —
Measures for its relief — Movement of the British from Canada — De-
struction of Schoharie.
To the Board of War, October 21 232
Question of meaning of the line of the Army.
General Orders, October 21 233
To Sir Henry Clinton, October 21 234
Resident commissaries of prisoners.
General Orders, October 22 . 236
To Major General Horatio Gates, October 22 . 236
Announcing the appointment of Greene to command in the south —
The inquiry into Gates's conduct.
To Major General William Heath, October 22 . . . 237
Colonel Hazen's troops.
Instructions to Major General Greene, October 22 . . 238
Instructions for his command in the south.
To Major Henry Lee, October 22 . 240
Clothing for his corps.
To Baron Steuben, October 22 . 240
His presence needed in the south.
To George Mason, October 22 241
Introducing Major General Greene — The distress of the Army — Liv-
ing upon expedients — False hopes and temporary devices — A new plan
essential — Details of the reform.
XX
WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
To Abraham Skinner, October 22
Exchange of officers.
To Colonel Charles Harrison, October 22 ...
Greene to command in the south.
To the President of Congress, October 22
Greene to command in the south — Court of inquiry on Gates —
Greene's ability — Baron Steuben.
To the Board of War, October 22
Lee's corps ordered south — -Clothing.
To William Fitzhugh, October 22
Introducing General Greene — Exchange of young Fitzhugh — Powers
to Congress — Expensive system.
To Governor Thomas Sim Lee, October 23 .
Introducing General Greene — Situation in the south.
To John Mathews, October 23
Mrs. Mathews — Southern affairs — Command in the soudi.
To Captain John Gooch, October 23 ...
His pay.
To Captain Thomas Wooster, October 23 .
His offer of services.
To Major John Mauritius Goetchius, October 23
A prisoner.
To Major General William Heath, October 23 .
Mrs. Moore to enter New York.
General Orders, October 23
To Major General William Heath, October 24 .
Clothing for hospital — Scarcity — An execution.
General Orders, October 24
To Major General Alexander McDougall, October 24
His election to Congress.
To Lieutenant Colonel Marinus Willett, October 24
His retention in the service.
To Major Benjamin Tallmadge, October 24 . . .
Guineas for spies — The stain.
To Comte de Rochambeau, October 24 ...
Lauzun's cavalry — Reported captures by a French fleet.
Page
243
243
244
245
246
247
248
249
249
25O
251
251
252
253
254
254
255
255
TABLE OF CONTENTS xxi
Page
General Orders, October 25 256
To the Board of War, October 25 256
Policy of the enemy — Suspicions of treason to be cautiously fol-
lowed— Doubts of the good motives of a deserting officer.
General Orders, October 26 257
General Orders, October 27 257
To Major General William Heath, October 28 ... 258
Ammunition and ordnance stores at Providence — State of supplies in
the Highlands.
To Brigadier General James Clinton, October 28 . . 259
To command at Albany — Arms and the militia.
To Governor Jonathan Trumbull, October 28 . . . 260
Forwarding salt beef.
General Orders, October 28 261
General Orders, October 29 261
To Governor George Clinton or in His Absence Lieu-
tenant Governor Van Cortlandt, October 29 262
Court-martial of Joshua Hett Smith.
To Major General William Heath, October 29 . . . 262
Joshua Hett Smith sent to West Point.
To the President of Congress, October 29 263
Intelligence from the south — Colonel du Buysson — Arnold's procla-
mation.
General Orders, October 30 264
To Colonel James Livingston or Officer Commanding
Kings Ferry, October 30 266
Sending Smith to West Point.
To Marquis de Lafayette, October 30 266
Means, not wishes, to be considered — An enterprise against New
York not warranted — Lack of intelligence.
To Major General William Heath, October 31 . . 267
To use his discretion as to prisoners — Kosciuszko's papers.
To Colonel James Wood, October 31 268
Exchange of German brigadiers.
To Abraham Skinner, October 31 . 268
Exchange of officers.
xxii WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To the Board of War, October 31 . . 269
Exchange of Brigadiers Specht and Gall.
To Major General William Phillips, October 31 . . . 269
Exchange of German brigadiers.
General Orders, October 31 270
To Governor John Hancock, October 31 272
Negroes detained as soldiers.
Council of War, October 31 272
Disposition for Opposing the Enemy, October . 273
To Chevalier du Bouchet, October 275
His letter — Appreciation of the French Army.
To the President of Congress, November 1 . . . . 275
Canadian refugees.
To Francisco P^endon, November 1 276
British sailed from New York.
General Orders, November 1 277
To Governor Jonathan Trumbull, November 1 . 282
Dispatches for Congress.
General Orders, November 2 282
To William Denning, November 2 283
Waste of stores in magazines — Flour casks — Guards.
To Colonel Christopher Greene, November 3 284
Arrears of Army pay — Clothing — Reformation of the Army.
To Captain John Hendricks, November 3 285
Intelligence of British embarkation at New York.
To Reverend Dirck Romeyn, November 3 286
Wishes confirmation of British embarkation.
General Orders, November 3 287
General Orders, November 4 ....... . 288
To President Joseph Reed, November 4 288
A British spy to be apprehended.
To Lieutenant Colonel William Stephens Smith, No-
vember 4 289
His exchange with another lieutenant colonel.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
xxm
Page
To the President of Congress, November 4 .... 289
British preparation of transports — Satisfaction of Army at the new
establishment.
To Comte de Rochambeau, November 4 290
Departure of our friend — British embarkation.
To the Board of War, November 4 291
Expenses of exchanged officers.
To Major Benjamin Tallmadge, November 4 . . . 292
Information wanted.
To the President of Congress, November 5 .... 293
Memorial from the Hospital Department — Half-pay — The British
hospital pay.
To Governor George Clinton, November 5 . . . . 295
Defense of the frontier — Garrison of Fort Schuyler — Scarcity of cloth-
ing— Brig. Gen. James Clinton to command on the frontier — The Gov-
ernor's authority — New York's deficiency in troops — Affairs to the
southward.
To Major General William Heath, November 5 . 298
The chain at West Point — Flour supply.
To Brigadier General James Clinton, November 5 . 299
Clothing for Weissenfel's regiment.
To Colonel Charles Armand-Tuffin, November 5 . 299
Equipment of his corps — Appointment of officers.
To David Brooks, November 5 300
Clothing for Weissenfel's regiment.
To Chevalier de La Luzerne, November 5 . . . . 301
The lines at Charleston.
General Orders, November 5 301
General Orders, November 6 302
To Governor George Clinton, November 6 .... 303
Reenforcements for the frontier.
To Philip Schuyler, November 6 304
Reenforcement of Clinton — Suspicious aspect of certain parties.
To Major General William Heath, November 6 . 305
Enemy's threats on the northern frontier.
To Brigadier General James Clinton, November 6 . . 305
Troops ordered north — Treachery apprehended.
xxiv WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To Major James Randolph Reid, November 6 . . . 306
Date of his commission.
To Colonel Moses Hazen, November 6 306
Major Reid's complaint.
To Doctor John Cochran, November 6 307
Representation of hospital officers sent to Congress.
To Governor Abner Nash, November 6 307
Thanking him for intelligence — Enemy may be made to repent their
temerity in the southern colonies — Their detachments and objects —
Generals Greene and Steuben — No further detachment can be sent
south from the main Army.
To Marquis de Lafayette, November 6 309
Courts-martial.
To Henry Babcock, November 7 309
Paying and supplying the Army — Coinage of plate.
To Jeremiah Wadsworth, November 7 310
Recapture of exchanged prisoners.
To Captain Judah Alden, November 7 310
Flag practice — Interception of provisions going into the enemy.
To the President of Congress, November 7 .... 311
Armand's and Lee's corps — Horses and equipment — Uneasiness of
the Engineers — Operations in the north — Supply of grain — Bread and
flour — Enemy in New York well supplied — Necessity for laws against
trading with the enemy — Exchange of prisoners effected.
To the Board of War, November 7 316
A general order — Letters to be forwarded.
To Edmund Randolph, November 7 316
Letters to Robert Carter Nicholas — Operations to the southward —
Disappointments — Necessity of an army for the war.
To Robert Carter Nicholas, November 7 318
Colonel Fairfax's affairs.
General Orders, November 7 319
General Orders, November 8 ....... . 320
To Major General Nathanael Greene, November 8 . . 320
Financial depression — Construction of flat-bottomed boats — A sub-
scription suggested — Power to exchange prisoners — Impossible to sup-
ply arms — Movements of the armies.
To Major General Benjamin Lincoln, November 8 . 322
His exchange — Usefulness in Massachusetts.
TABLE OF CONTENTS xxv
Page
To Brigadier General Louis le Beque du Portail, No-
vember 8 323
His exchange.
To Colonel James Wood, November 8 324
Exchange of Convention troops.
To Abraham Skinner, November 8 324
Exchanges effected — Negotiations — Southern prisoners.
To Governor Thomas JefTerson, November 8 . 325
Affairs to the southward — Supplies for the Convention troops — Flat-
boats to be provided.
To William Fitzhugh, November 8 327
Exchange of his son — Prospect of a favorable campaign vanishes —
Vague accounts from the South — Regulating and completing the Army
for the war — Enormous expense.
General Orders, November 9 328
To Major General William Heath, November 9 . . . 329
Flour from the southward — Lack of money and clothing.
To Lewis Pintard, November 9 330
Resident agents for prisoners — Appointment of Pintard.
To Major General William Phillips, November 9 . 330
Exchanges — Passport for a supply vessel.
Circular to the States, November 10 331
Scant clothing supplies — Articles most wanted.
To Colonel Elisha Sheldon, November 10 . 332
Rochambeau's dispatches tampered with.
General Orders, November 10 333
General Orders, November 11 333
To Major Benjamin Tallmadge, November 11 . . 335
Attempt on British forage at Coram.
To Major John Mauritius Goetchius, November 11 . . 336
Provisions for his detachment.
To Major General William Heath, November 12 . 336
Winter stations of the troops — His intended forage approved.
To Colonel William Malcom, November 12 . . . . 338
Disaster on the western frontier.
xxvi WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To Colonel Seth Warner, November 12 338
His defeat — His regiment in the new establishment of the Army —
Military chest is empty.
To Colonel Timothy Pickering, November 12 . . . 339
Establishment of the Artificer regiment.
To Captain John Ogden, November 12 340
Arrangements for opposing the enemy.
To Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, November 12 340
Approves his going to the south.
General Orders, November 12 341
To Comte de Rochambeau, November 12 ... 341
Intelligence — Exchange of prisoners.
General Orders, November 13 342
To Brigadier General Mordecai Gist, November 13 . 343
Directions from General Greene.
To Major General William Heath, November 13 . . 343
Visit of French officers.
To Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, November 14 . 344
Winter quarters — Huts.
To Governor George Clinton, November 14 . . . . 344
Completing troop quota — Pennsylvania Independent companies.
To Colonel Philip Burr Bradley, November 14 . 345
Invalids and baggage of the Connecticut line — Route of march.
To The President of Congress, November 14 . . . . 346
Admiral Rodney's fleet and transports.
To Comte de Rochambeau, November 14 ... 347
Destination of Rodney's fleet — British ships left at New York.
General Orders, November 14 347
To Reverend William Smith, November 15 . . . . 348
Election to the American Philosophical Society.
General Orders, November 15 349
To Major General William Heath, November 16 . 350
A foraging expedition to cover another movement — Boats — Troops
to be sent to West Point.
To Major General William Heath, November 16 . . 352
Colonel Varick's court of inquiry — Clothing for the Jersey line.
TABLE OF CONTENTS xxvn
Page
To Major General Samuel Holden Parsons, Novem-
ber^ 353
To join the Army.
To Lieutenant Colonel Ebenezer Stevens, November 16 . 353
Invalids and baggage of the artillery — Winter quarters.
To Major Benjamin Tallmadge, November 16 . . . 354
Refusal of a passport — Spies not to be mentioned by name in letters.
To Governor William Greene, November 16 . . . 355
Character of George Howell.
To the Board of War, November 16 356
Passport for a sloop requested from Sir Henry Clinton.
To Sir Henry Clinton, November 16 356
Requests passport for a clothing sloop to South Carolina — Mrs. Mary
Mathews.
To Comte de Rochambeau, November 16 ... 357
Winter quarters of the French — French officers visit to Philadelphia —
Fleet arrived at New York.
General Orders, November 16 358
To Major General William Heath, November 17 359
New York regiments returned from Albany — Furlough of an officer.
General Orders, November 17 361
Instructions to Colonel Stephen Moylan, November 17 . 361
Horses to go to Lancaster — Repair of accoutrements — To apply to
Pennsylvania for men and horses.
To Major Samuel Darby, November 17 362
Preparation of boats, oars, etc. — Carriages for boats.
To Lieutenant Colonel Nathaniel Ramsey, Novem-
ber 18 364
His exchange and return to duty.
To Francisco Rendon, November 18 364
Sailing of Rodney for the West Indies.
General Orders, November 18 365
General Orders, November 19 365
To George Walton, November 19 366
Exchange of Lieutenant Morris — Convention troops exchanges.
xxviii WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To Colonel Timothy Pickering, November 19 . . . 367
Clothing from Boston.
To Otis & Henley, November 19 367
Forwarding of clothing.
To Governor Jonathan Trumbull, November 19 . . 368
Forwarding of clothing — Salt beef.
To Governor William Livingston, November 19 . 369
Horses sent from camp for the winter — Troops stationed in Jersey.
To President Joseph Reed, November 20 370
Arnold's statement untrue.
To John Sullivan, November 20 371
Reform of the Army for the war — The call upon the States for specific
supplies — Multiplicity of business in Congress an obstacle to improve-
ment— Executive matters should be committed to boards or individ-
uals— Problem of clothing — A remedy — A foreign loan indispensable —
The shifts of the last campaign cannot be repeated— Lack of pay — Re-
lief of the southern States.
To Arthur Lee, November 20 374
Absolute necessity of a foreign loan.
To Sir Henry Clinton, November 20 375
Propositions for an exchange of prisoners.
To the President of Congress, November 20 .... 376
Exchange of prisoners — Removal of horses from camp — Paulding,
Van Wert, and Williams.
To Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Forrest, November 20 . 378
His retirement — Lieutenant colonels of artillery.
To Colonel Timothy Pickering, November 20 . . . 379
Carriages for transporting boats.
General Orders, November 20 379
General Orders, November 21 380
To Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, November 21 . 380
March of his troops to Acquackanock.
To Brigadier General John Stark, November 21 ... 381
Verbal orders.
To Colonel Stephen Moylan, November 21 . . . . 381
To march to Totowa bridge — Videttes to be posted.
To Colonel Thomas Craig, November 21 382
To march to Springfield.
TABLE OF CONTENTS xxix
Page
To Colonel Jean Baptiste Gouvion, November 21 383
To reconnoiter the British lines.
To Major John Mauritius Goetchius, November 21 . 384
All water craft to be secured.
To Major Thomas Parr, November 21 385
To intercept flour being carried into Powles Hook.
To Captain John Fowles, November 21 385
To give earliest information of a British movement.
To Brigadier General Henry Knox, November 22 . 386
Artillery to cover passage of the river.
To Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, November 22 . 386
Mr. Watkins as a successor to Erskine.
To Colonel Timothy Pickering, November 22 . 386
Muffling of oars — Transportation of boats.
To Captain Aaron Ogden, November 22 387
Boats and guides.
To Major Samuel Darby, November 22 388
Movement of the boats — Secrecy.
General Orders, November 22 389
To Lieutenant Colonel David Humphreys, Novem-
ber 22 390
Directions for the attack on the British posts at the north end of York
Island — Signals.
To Lord Stirling, November 23 ...... . 391
Orders.
General Orders, November 23 ' . 391
To Marquis de Lafayette, November 23 392
Orders for Von Heer's and Bedkin's corps.
To Colonel Alexander Scammell, November 23 . 392
Pioneers.
To Major William Crane, November 23 .... 392
Collection of boats — Good guides needed — British on Staten Island.
To Ephraim Blaine, November 23 394
Case of Major Hale.
To Captain Judah Alden, November 23 394
Enterprise against Staten Island — General directions.
xxx WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To Colonel Stephen Moylan, November 24 .... 395
Recall of his men — Orders to Captain Alden.
To Colonel Thomas Craig, November 24 395
Circumstances render the enterprise inexpedient — Recall of his party.
To Lieutenant Colonel David Humphreys, Novem-
ber 24 395
Project relinquished — Stark's detachment.
To Major William Crane, November 24 396
Enterprise inexpedient — Preparations to be laid aside.
General Orders, November 24 396
To Captain Judah Alden, November 24 396
Letter for Humphreys.
General Orders, November 25 397
To John Sullivan, November 25 397
Promotions and the case of Knox — Irregular promotions work a per-
manent injury.
To the President of Congress, November 26 .... 399
Cannot make the requested return of engineer officers just now — New
plan of the Inspector's Department — Difficulties — Marechaussee corps — ■
Death of Erskine.
To Major General William Heath, November 26 400
General regulations for receiving flour and bread — Positions in winter
quarters.
General Orders, November 26 401
To the President of Congress, November 27 .... 403
Introducing Chevalier de Chastellux.
Instructions to Brigadier General John Glover, Novemr
ber 27 403
State of magazines makes discharge of troops necessary.
To the President of Congress, November 27 .... 404
Introducing Vicomte de Noailles.
To the President of Congress, November 27 .... 404
Introducing Comte de Damas.
To Major General William Heath, November 27 . . 405
March of Connecticut and Massachusetts troops.
To Major General Robert Howe, November 27 . . . 405
Command of the column marching to Kings Ferry.
TABLE OF CONTENTS xxxi
Page
To the President of Congress, November 27 .... 406
Introducing Chevalier Duplesses.
To Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, November 27 . 406
Marching orders — Hut building — Horses — Ox teams — Magazines —
Preservation of property — Recruits hoped for — Discipline — Officers to
remain with their regiments — Light patrols — Destruction of boats.
To the Officer Commanding the New Jersey Brigade,
November 27 408
Position at the Clove — Huts — General directions.
To Colonel Charles Armand-Tuffin, November 27 . 409
His complaint — Promotions — His reputation.
To Colonel Christopher Greene, November 27 ... 410
His removal to West Point.
Instructions to Colonel Elisha Sheldon, November 27 . 410
To march to winter quarters — Unfit horses — Application to Con-
necticut for deficiencies.
To Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, November 27 . 411
Hale's case — Lack of flour.
To the Officer Commanding the New Jersey Light In-
fantry Companies, November 27 412
Boats — Detachment for Dobbs Ferry.
To Governor George Clinton, November 27 . 413
Alarming prospects of bread — Flour — Hay's plan — Dreads a repeti-
tion of last winter.
To Comte de Rochambeau, November 27 ... 414
Dispatches sent to France — Ferguson's defeat — Situation in the
south — Winter quarters — Rhode Island regiments — Chain of expresses
withdrawn.
To Major General William Heath, November 27 . . 415
Cattle surplus for Fort Schuyler.
To Major General William Heath, November 27 . 416
Sheldon ordered into winter quarters.
To Benjamin Tallmadge, November 28 416
Success at Fort St. George — Thanks to officers and men.
To Major General William Heath, November 28 . 417
Discharge of Connecticut and Massachusetts levies; also those of New
Hampshire and the artillery — Entire York brigade sent to Albany to
protect the frontiers — Clothing.
xxxn
WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To the President of Congress, November 28 .... 418
Winter quarters at New Windsor — General disposition of the Army —
The resignation of Colonel Scammell — Tallmadge's exploit.
General Orders, November 29 420
To the Officer Commanding the New Jersey Brigade,
November 29 421
Orders for his guidance — Blockhouse at Suffrans — Opposition to the
enemy — Horses to be sent from camp — Discipline.
To Reverend H. Addison, November 29 422
Passage through the American lines.
To Brigadier General James Clinton, November 29 . 422
Remainder of the New York line sent to Albany.
To Doctor Lewis Ford Dunham, November 29 . . . 423
Retirement of surgeons.
To Brigadier General Henry Knox, November 30 . 423
Repair of arms by Mr. Buell.
To Brigadier General Henry Knox, November . . 424
Instructions for surprise of British posts at north end of York Island —
Rockets, boards, etc. — Scows and boats — Artillery — Orders for the Light
Infantry — Orders for General Hazen, Colonels Smith and Sheldon.
Plan for Attack on New York, November .... 428
To Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, December 7 434
Introducing Comte de Custine and Marquis de Laval.
To Colonel Israel Shreve, December 7 435
Instructions miscarried.
To the President of Congress, December 7 . . 435
Introducing Comte de Custine.
To the President of Congress, December 7 . . . . 436
Introducing Marquis de Laval.
To the Board of War, December 7 436
Returns required — Passport for a sloop.
To Governor Jonathan Trumbull, December 8 . . 437
Returns ordered — Need of troops for the period of the war — Prefers
putting matters to some hazard rather than call for temporary enlistment.
To Major General William Heath, December 8 . . . 438
Barrels of salt beef to be sent to Albany for Fort Schuyler.
TABLE OF CONTENTS xxxiii
Page
To Major General Nathanael Greene, December 8 . 438
The marquis going to the south.
To Marquis de Lafayette, December 8 439
His departure for the south — Should depend upon the news from
Europe.
To Sundry Gentlemen in Virginia, December 8 . . . 440
Introducing Lafayette, De Noailles, and De Damas.
To Brigadier General Jedidiah Huntington, Decem-
ber 8 440
Furlough.
To Colonel Stephen Moylan, December 8 441
Returns wanted by the Board of War — Clothing.
To Brigadier General John Stark, December 8 . . . 441
Leave of absence.
General Orders, December 8 442
To the President of Congress, December 8 . . . . 443
Superintendent for the Carlisle elaboratory — Exchange negotiation.
To Colonel Elisha Sheldon, December 8 444
Cavalry returns.
To Nathaniel Shaw, December 8 445
Expense of forwarding dispatches.
To Brigadier General Henry Knox, December 9 . 445
Artillery artificers for the Carlisle elaboratory.
To Colonel James Wood, December 9 445
Permission for two British officers to go to New York.
To Lewis Pintard, December 9 446
Regrets at his declining to act as agent for prisoners in New York.
To Governor Thomas Jefferson, December 9 . . . 446
Expected operations of the British in Virginia — Army in winter quar-
ters— Supplies for Convention troops — Model for a boat.
To Major General William Phillips, December 9 , . . 448
Passport for a ship.
To Sir Henry Clinton, December 9 448
Accounts of prisoners' subsistence — Exchange negotiation — Passport
for a supply ship.
Marine Passport, December 9 449
xxxiv WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To Governor Thomas Jefferson, December 10 . . 450
Virginia's specific supplies assigned to the southern army.
Circular to the States, December 10 450
Specific supplies — Kinds and places of deposit.
To Governor George Clinton, December 10 ... . 452
The Hartford Convention — Recruiting.
To Governor George Clinton, December 10 . . . . 452
Flour from Fishkill — Lack of bread — Urgency of relief.
To Major General William Heath, December 10 . . 453
Salt beef at West Point — Discharge of the levies — Officers' rations —
Clothing — Arrest and trial of Major Reid.
To Baron Steuben, December 10 454
inspector Department — Winter quarters — Reported British detach-
ment form New York.
To Brigadier General James Clinton, December 10 . 455
Officers for recruiting service.
To Captain Bartholomew von Heer, December 10 . . 456
Return of horses, clothing, and accouterments wanted.
To Comte de Rochambeau, December 10 . . . 456
Visits of French officers — Approves quartering troops in Connecti-
cut— Intelligence from New York.
To Gouverneur Morris, December 10 457
Enterprise against New York — Force of the enemy and of the Ameri-
can Army — No money or credit to buy boards for doors to huts — Dis-
missal of levies to prevent them from starving — No money to pay
expresses — No money for his table — An attempt considered and aban-
doned— Difficult even to move Army to cantonments.
General Orders, December 11 459
To Major General Benjamin Lincoln, December 11 461
His services — Consequences of a temporary army — places of deposit
for provisions — Default on the part of some of the States — Want of
clothing.
To Captain Daniel Niven, December 12 463
Floats for the chain at West Point.
To Charles Willson Peale, December 12 463
Pictures of Lafayette and the King of Prussia.
To Governor Jonathan Trumbull, December 13 . . . 464
Passport for a brig with clothing for British prisoners.
TABLE OF CONTENTS xxxv
Page
To Major General Nathanael Greene, December 13 464
His knowledge of the difficulties in the south — Clothing — The Vir-
ginia line — Specific supplies — British embarkation at New York.
To Lieutenant Colonel Francis Barber, December 13 . 466
Captain Gifford's fidelity.
To Captain Roger Welles, December 13 467
To command the guard boats — Muffled oar boats — General directions
to prevent a surprise of Dobbs Ferry.
To the President of Congress, December 13 . . . 468
Payment of officers for wounded horses — Embarkation at New
York — Discharge of new levies for want of bread.
To Major General Nathanael Greene, December 14 469
Introductory letters — His arduous task — Expectations of the public —
Mrs. Greene — Discharge of levies for want of clothing and bread —
Colonel Hamilton and the adjutant generalcy.
To Major General William Phillips, December 13 . 471
Exchange of Governor Hamilton.
To Comte de Rochambeau, December 13 ... 471
British embarkation at New York.
General Orders, December 14 472
To Marquis de Lafayette, December 14 473
No money to employ expresses — His command over the French at
Rhode Island very limited — Best to postpone a correspondence with
Spanish generals — The Spanish maneuvers important — Exchange of
Colonel Neville — Disappointments.
To Colonel James Livingston, December 14 . . 475
Return of his regiment called for.
To Francisco Rendon, December 14 476
Another embarkation at New York.
To Chevalier de La Luzerne, December 14 ... . 476
Thanks for intelligence — Clothing disappointment — Express chain
discontinued.
To the President of Congress, December 15 ... 477
Approbation of Congress of Major Tallmadge and his force — Brit-
ish reenforcements — Hope of enemy built upon our inability to raise a
permanent Army — Neutral nations in Europe — Capture of the mail —
Route.
To Mrs. Nathanael Greene, December 15 ... . 479
General Greene's letters.
xxxvi WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Page
To Comte de Rochambeau and Chevalier de Ternay,
December 15 48°
An embarkation of the British — Importance of driving British from
the south — Losses of men, artillery, and stores — No prospect of the
second French division — Spain's expedition against Florida — Proposes
to cooperate with the Spanish — General outline of his plan — Reasons
why Spaniards should enter into the cooperation.
General Orders, December 15 484
General Orders, December 16 485
To Major General William Heath, December 16 . . 485
Arrest of Major Reid — Case of Joshua Ferris.
To Colonel Timothy Pickering, December 16 . . . 486
Laying up of boats.
To Colonel Israel Shreve, December 16 486
Scarcity of forage — Clothing.
To Lieutenant Colonel Ludowick Weltner, Decem-
ber 16 487
Clothing — Winter quarters.
To John Sullivan, December 17 488
On promotions — Sometimes one army, sometimes thirteen armies — ■
Lineal promotion the most equitable and satisfactory mode — The want
of fixed principle the cause of difficulty and discontent — His efforts to
destroy State distinctions — Under prevailing ideas, promotions should
be lineal in each State to the rank of brigadier — The appointment of
brigadiers and of major generals — Present system regimental to cap-
tains, and in the line of the State beyond that — A case in the Jersey
line — The propriety of new appointments — The less the States have to
do with men and their supplies in the field the better.
To Colonel Elisha Sheldon, December 17 ... . 491
Civil interference with cantonment of troops will render the Army
useless.
ToEzekiel Cheever, December 17 ..... . 492
Court-martial of Mr. Collins.
To Governor Jonathan Trumbull, December 17 . . 493
Interference by Connecticut with the winter cantonment of horse —
Location of this winter's cantonments.
General Orders, December 18 494
General Orders, December 19 494
To Governor Jonathan Trumbull, December 19 . . 495
Enemy's preparation for a move — Scarcity of provisions and cloth-
ing— Sheldon's regiment.
TABLE OF CONTENTS xxxvn
Page
To Governor George Clinton, December 19 . . . . 496
Workers in the Albany armory should be excused from militia duty.
To Major General William Heath, December 19 . . 496
Transfers to the Invalid corps — The levies — Boats — Boards — Model
of carriage for transporting flat-bottom boats.
To Captain John Buchanan, December 19 ... . 498
Compensation.
To Brigadier General James Clinton, December 19 498
Clothing supply — Exemption of armory workers from militia duty.
To the Board of War, December 19 499
Von Heer's return of men, horses, etc.
To Governor George Clinton, December 19 . . . . 499
Introducing Noailles and Damas.
To Brigadier General James Clinton, December 19 . 500
Introducing De Chastellux, Noailles, and Damas.
General Orders, December 20 500
To the President of Congress, December 20 ... 501
On promotions — A general rule proposed — Results of irregular pro-
motions— Brigadier and major generals — Seniority and state rank.
To Major General William Heath, December 20 . 505
Lack of flour — Great number of rations — Warns against a surprise —
Blue cloth.
To Governor Jonathan Trumbull, December 20 . 506
Return of Sheldon's cavalry.
To Benjamin Franklin, December 20 ..... . 507
Chastellux — Disappointment of the Second Division of the French
and forced inaction of the Army — Operations to the southward.
To Chevalier de La Luzerne, December 20 ... 508
Half -pay to brevet rank — Fleury and Duplessis.
TABLE OF SYMBOLS
The following symbols have been used to denote the place of
deposit of Washington letters not found in draft or letter-book
form in the Washington Papers in the Library of Congress:
Indicating that the letter is in Washington's
own handwriting *
Chicago Historical Society
CH.H.S.]
Clements Library, University of Michigan
C.L.]
Connecticut Historical Society
C.H.S.]
Harvard College Library
fHV.L.]
Haverford College
HD.C]
Historical Society of Pennsylvania
[H.S.P.]
Huntington Library
H.L.]
John Carter Brown Library, Rhode Island
J.C.B.]
Maine Historical Society
M.H.S.]
Maryland Historical Society
MD.H.S.]
Massachusetts Historical Society
MS.H.S.]
J. P. Morgan Library
[M.L.]
New Hampshire Historical Society
[N.H.H.S.]
New York Historical Society
N.Y.H.S.]
New York Public Library
[N.Y.P.L.]
New York State Library
[N.Y.S.L.]
Rhode Island Historical Society
[R.I.H.S.]
Rhode Island Society of the Cincinnati
[R.I.S.C.]
Society of the Cincinnati
[S.C.]
University of Chicago Library
[U.C.L.]
University of Pennsylvania Library
[U.P.]
Virginia Historical Society
[V.H.S.]
Virginia State Library
[V.S.L.]
[xxxix]
THE WRITINGS OF
GEORGE WASHINGTON
THE WRITINGS OF
GEORGE WASHINGTON
To BRIGADIER GENERAL ANTHONY WAYNE
Head Quarters, September 6, 1780.
Dr Sir : I have received Your Letter of the 3rd and return You
my warmest thanks for your professions of friendship.1 These
are the more pleasing as I am convinced, they are founded in
the strictest sincerity, and I hope it is needless for me to tell You
at this time, that an equal regard for You, prevails on my part.
I am concerned however, that you should have given Your-
self the trouble of writing me on the subject of Your Letter.
I did not want any assurances or any proofs upon the point, be-
cause I entertain no idea, that You encouraged the unhappy
measure, to which You allude, and which I wish to be buried
in oblivion.2 Your former assurances, your anxiety to which
I was a Witness; the interesting part you took to compromise
and settle the matter, were sufficient to remove every belief of
the sort.
I do not know with certainty the person to whom You allude,
as having attempted to injure You but from what I have heard,
and not without much pain, it is probable I could conjecture
who it is. If I am not mistaken with respect to the person I
mean, I can with the greatest truth assure You, that he never
mentioned a syllable to me in his life injurious to You in the
1 Wayne's letter of September 3 is in the Washington Papers.
2 The furore caused by the intended appointment of Maj. William Macpherson to
the Light Infantry.
8701 1
2 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
least possible degree, nor have I any reason to believe that he
ever did to Any Gentleman of my family. The bare report of a
coolness, which is said to subsist between You and the Gentle-
man I have in view, has given me great concern, because I have
a warm friendship for both, and consider harmony essential
to our interest. There is nothing, if he is the person,3 which
would give me more pleasure, than to hear that You were in
perfect amity again. Let it be the case. Let all differences sub-
side; the situation of our affairs never required it more, and in
the Emphatical terms of your and General Irvine's Letter, of
which You inclosed a Copy; Let all be as a band of Brothers
and rise superior to every injury, whether real or imaginary and
persevere in the arduous but glorious struggle in which we are
engaged, 'till Peace and Independence are secured to our Coun-
try. I am certain You will do it; and I will only add that
I am etc.4
To GOVERNOR THOMAS SIM LEE
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 6, 1780.
Sir: In consequence of the disagreeable intelligence of the
defeat of the Army, under Major General Gates,5 which I
have just received: I think it expedient to countermand the
march of the Troops which were ordered from Maryland to
join the Main Army. I am therefore to request Your Excel-
lency to give directions for the Regiment lately raised for the
War, as well, as for all the Recruits of your State (as soon as
they can possibly be collected and organized) to march im-
mediately to the Southward, and put themselves under the
Orders of the Commanding Officer in that department.
3 Possibly Joseph Reed.
4 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
"At Camden, S. C. .
1780] PAY DEPRECIATION 3
Altho I have not had the particulars of the late disaster, or
of how extensive a nature it is : Yet it is certain the exigency
is such, as will demand the most vigorous and spirited Meas-
ures to retrieve our affairs and check the Enemy : And I can-
not entertain a doubt, but Your Excellency and the State will
use every exertion to give activity and dispatch to the march
of the Troops; and to all the Measures necessary for the pro-
tection of the Southern States.
I have enclosed this Letter open to the Board of War, that
in case the Regiment in question is on its march from Mary-
land it may be ordered to return without delay. I have the
honor etc.6 [md.h.s.]
*To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Qrs. near Hackensack Bridge, September 6, 1780.
Sir: I had the honor to receive your Excellency's Letters of
the 24th. and 28th. Ulto, on the 1st. and 2d. Instt. with the reso-
lutions to which they refer. The latter have been announced
to the Army in Orders, and I hope that they will quiet many
of the complaints which have existed. I cannot forbear express-
ing my wishes for the sake of harmony, which our affairs essen-
tially require, that the business of depreciation7 so far as it
is not to be provided for by the different States, could be a
matter of speedy and general arrangement so as to shew at
one view All the Parties who are to have their pay made good.
For I would beg leave to observe that the mentioning of one
part or class of the Army and postponing another, tho' they
should eventually be placed on the same footing, is the source
6 In the writing of David Humphreys.
A note dated "War Office Septr. nth. 1780," and signed "B[enjamin] Sftod-
dert]" has been added at the bottom of the above letter enumerating the clothing
supplies needed for these Maryland troops.
7 Of the pay of the Army.
4 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
of uneasiness and of apprehensions; that injurious discrimina-
tions may obtain; and it is said that All Officers and persons
of every description who have constantly served for a fixed, and
standing pay; which has not been encreased from time to time
with the depreciation, stand upon the same principle and are
entitled to the same consideration.
I am sorry to inform Congress that our distresses for Meat
still continue. The Army in genl. have been entirely destitute
for two and three days, and at most have not drawn more than
one days supply in four or five. Such injury to the discipline
of the Army, and such distresses to the Inhabitants, result from
these frequent wants, that my feelings are hurt beyond descrip-
tion at the cries of the one and a view of the other.
Your Excellency's very Interesting letter of the 31st. by
Mr. Izard 8 came to my hand yesterday. The event which its
Inclosures announce, is an unfortunate one indeed.9 It had
arrived in Camp from Philadelphia before your dispatches
were received. I have the honr. etc.10
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 6, 1780.
Gentlemen: The purport of the inclosed to Governor Lee of
Maryland is to order the additional Regt. of that state to repair
immediately to the southward instead of this Army as was in-
tended. It is possible that the Regiment may have reached
Philada. or may be upon the Route from Baltimore to that
8 Ralph Izard, of South Carolina. He was formerly United States Commissioner to
the court of Tuscany, and later Delegate to the Continental Congress, 1 782-1 783;
United States Senator from South Carolina, 1 789-1 795; president pro tempore of the
Senate from May, 1794, to February, 1795.
8 Gates's defeat at Camden, S. C.
10 The letter was read in Congress on September 11 and referred to the committee
on Washington's letter of August 20.
1780] FORAGE IMPRESS 5
place. In case the first event should have taken place, you will
be pleased to order the Regt. back and if it should not have
arrived, you will send a person forward with the letter and
with directions to turn it back should it be met upon the Road.
I have the honor etc.11
IMPRESS WARRANT12
Head Quarters, September 6, 1780.
From the representation you have made to me that the
Horses of the Army cannot be supplied in the modes pointed
out by Law, I am compeld from the necessity of the case to
Authorize you to impress and you are hereby Authorizd by
your Deputy Assistants and Forage Masters to impress Forage
necessary for the horses of the Army when the same cannot
otherwise be procured, also the necessary pasturage, provided
that the same be taken within Fifteen miles of an Encampment
of the Army and that you take the most effective measures to
have justice done to the Inhabitants and to prevent Waste or
damage.
This Warrant to continue in force for Ten days from the
date hereof and no longer.
COUNCIL OF WAR13
Camp, Bergen County, September 6, 1780.
The Commander in chief states to the Council, that since
he had the honor of laying before the General Officers, at
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
"To Col. Clement Biddle. (See Washington's Impress Warrant to Colonel Biddle
of Aug. 2, 1780, ante.)
"Those present were: Washington; Major Generals Greene, Lord Stirling, St. Clair,
Howe, Lafayette, and Steuben; Brigadier Generals Nixon, Clinton, Knox, Glover,
Wayne, Huntington, Stark, Hand, and Irvine.
6 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
Morris Town, the 6th. of June last a general view of our cir-
cumstances, several important events have occurred, which
have materially changed the prospects of the Campaign.
That the succour expected from France, instead of coming
out in one body, and producing a naval superiority in these
Seas, has been divided into two divisions, the first of which
only consisting of seven Ships of the line, one forty four and
three smaller Frigates, with five thousand land forces, had
arrived at Rhode Island.
That a reinforcement of Six Ships of the line from England
having reinforced the Enemy; had made their naval force in
these Seas amount to nine Sail of the line, two fifties, two
forty fours, and a number of smaller Frigates; a force com-
pletely superior to that of our allies, and which has in conse-
quence held them blocked up in the Harbour of Rhode
Island, till the 29th. Ulto., at which period, the British Fleet
disappeared, and no advice of them has been since received.
That accounts received by the Alliance Frigate, which left
France in July announces the second division to be confined
in Brest with several other Ships by a British Fleet of Thirty
two sail of the line; and a fleet of the allies of thirty six or
thirty eight Ships of the line ready to put to Sea from Cadiz
to relieve the port of Brest.
That most of the States, in their answers to the requisitions
made of them, gave the strongest assurances of doing every
thing in their power to furnish the man and supplies required
for the expected cooperation; the effect of which however has
been far short of our expectations, for not much above one
third of the Levies demanded for the Continental Battalions,
nor above the same proportion of Militia have been assem-
bled, and the supplies have been so inadequate that there was
1780] STRENGTH OF THE ARMY 7
a necessity for dismissing all the Militia, whose immediate
services could be dispensed with, to lessen our consumption;
notwithstanding which the Troops now in the Field are se-
verely suffering for want of provisions.
That the Army at this Post, and in the vicinity, in operating
force, consists of 10,400 Continental Troops, and about 400
Militia; besides which is a Regiment of Continental Troops
of about 500 at Rhode Island left there for the assistance of
our allies against any attempt of the Enemy that way, and two
Connecticut State Regiments amounting to 800 at North Cas-
tle. That the times of service, for which the levies are engaged
will expire by the 1st. of January, which, if not replaced, al-
lowing for the usual casualties, will reduce the Continental
Army to less than 6,000 men.
That since the state to the Council above referred to, the En-
emy have brought a detachment of about 3,000 from Charles
Town to New York, which makes the present operating force
in this quarter between Ten and eleven thousand men.
That the Enemy's force now in the Southern States has not
been lately ascertained by any distinct accounts, but the Gen-
eral supposes it cannot be less than 7,000 (of which about 2000
are probably at Savannah); in this estimate the diminution
by the casualties of the climate is supposed to be equal to the
increase of force derived from the disaffected.
That, added to the loss of Charles Town and its Garrison,
accounts of a recent misfortune are just arrived from Major
General Gates, giving advice of a general action which hap-
pened on the 16th. of August near Campden, in which the
Army under his command met with a total defeat, and in all
probability the whole of the Continental Troops and a con-
siderable part of the Militia would be cut off.
8 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
That the State of Virginia has been some time exerting it-
self to raise a body of 3,000 Troops to serve till the end of De-
cember but how far it has succeeded is not known.
That Maryland had Resolved to raise 2,000 Men, of which
a sufficient number to compose one Battalion was to have
come to this Army, the remainder to recruit the Maryland
line; but in consequence of the late advices an order has been
sent to march the whole Southward.
That the Enemy's force in Canada Hallifax, St. Augustine
and at Penobscot remains much the same as stated to the pre-
ceding Council.
That there is still every reason to believe the Court of
France will prosecute its original intention of giving effectual
succour to this Country, as soon as circumstances will permit;
and it is hoped the second division will certainly arrive in the
course of the fall.
That a Fleet greatly superior to that of the Enemy in the
West Indies and a formidable Land force had sailed some
time since from Martinique to make a combined attack upon
the Island of Jamaica. That there is a possibility of a reinforce-
ment from this quarter also to the fleet of our ally at Rhode
Island.
The Commander in chief, having thus given the Council a
full view of our present situation and future prospects, re-
quests the opinion of each member in writing, what plan it
will be adviseable for us to pursue; to what objects our atten-
tion ought to be directed, in the course of this fall and winter,
taking into consideration the alternative of having or not hav-
ing a naval superiority; whether any offensive operation can
immediately be undertaken and against what point; what
ought to be our immediate preparations and dispositions,
particlarly whether we can afford, or ought, to send any
For the Day Tomorrow
1780] EMBEZZLEMENT 9
reinforcement from this army to the Southern States, and to
what amount.14 The General requests to be favored with these
opinions by the ioth. instant at furthest.15
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Wednesday, September 6, 1780.
Parole Richmond. Countersigns O., K.
Watchword Fabius.
Brigadier General Paterson
Colonel H. Jackson
Lieutenant Colonel Badlam
Major Torrey
Brigade Major Fish
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the
following resolution.
In Congress, August 22, 1780.
Whereas it is of the utmost importance effectually to prevent the de-
struction, waste, embezzlement and misapplication of the public stores
and provisions, upon which the existence of the armies of these United
States may depend, and no adequate provision hath been made for the
just punishment of delinquents in the departments of the quarter master
general, commissary general of purchases, commissary general of issues,
cloathier general, commissary general of military stores, purveyor of the
hospitals, and hide department; therefore, Resolved, That every person in
any of the said departments, entrusted with the care of provisions, or
14 A summary of the opinions of the general officers present (except Nixon, and in
addition those of Brig. Genls. John Paterson and Samuel Holden Parsons) in the
writing of Washington, is in the Washington Papers, under date of Sept. 6, 1780. In
general, the opinion of the officers was against attacking New York until the arrival
of the second division of the French, and generally against a southern expedition.
A copy of the foregoing Council of War, in the Washington Papers, was found among
Arnold's papers after he fled to the British. It had been sent him by Washington on
September 11, requesting his opinion "between this and Sunday next"; which would
have been September 1 6.
16In the writing of Richard Kidder Meade.
10 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
military or hospital stores, or other property of these United States, who
shall be convicted at a general court martial, of having sold, without a
proper order for that purpose, embezzled, or wilfully misapplied, dam-
aged or spoiled, any of the provisions, horses, forage, arms, cloathing, am-
munition, or other military or hospital stores, or property belonging to the
United States of America shall sufTer death or such other punishment as
shall be directed by a general court martial, according to the nature and
degree of the offence, at the discretion of such court; and every person in
any of the said departments, intrusted as aforesaid, who shall be convicted
at a general court martial of having, through neglect, suffered any of the
articles aforesaid to be wasted, spoiled or damaged, shall sufTer such pun-
ishment as the said court shall in their discretion, direct according to the
degree of the offence.
To MAJOR GENERAL BENEDICT ARNOLD
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 7, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed, your favor of the 5th. inclosing your
instructions to Colo. Livingston, which perfectly comprehend
my Ideas of the rule of conduct which is to be observed should
the enemy come up the River in force. I hear nothing further
of any extraordinary preparations, but our precautions should
be continued, because if they do operate against you, it will be
rapidly.
I have no objection to the appointment of Capt. Lieut. Hub-
bell 16 to do the duty of Deputy Adjt. Genl. and sub Inspector.
We have very disagreeable accounts from the southward.
General Gates's letter does not go into particulars, but only
mentions that the Army under his command had been totally
defeated on the 16th: Augt. about eight Miles from Camden.
I am &c.
"Capt.-Lieut. Isaac Hubbell, of the Second Continental Artillery. He was regi-
mental paymaster in January, 1781; transferred to Corps of Artillery in June, 1783;
served to November, 1783.
For the Day Tomorrow
1780] ROAD REPAIRS 11
P. S. There are eight Men of Colo. Putnams Regt. who
were employed as Bargemen by Genl. Howe and left at West
point. You will be pleased to send them down to join their
Regt. an officer goes up to take charge of them.17
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Thursday, September 7, 1780.
Parole Rockaway. Countersigns Steel, Thames.
Watchword Rest.
Brigadier General Wayne
Colonel Angell
Lieutenant Colonel Hait18
Major Reed19
Brigade Major Woodbridge
A Captain, Sub, three Serjeants, three Corporals, one Drum
one fife and forty privates to be sent to Head Quarters this
afternoon five o'clock from General McDougall's Division.
To be relieved daily from the General detail in future.
A Serjeant, Corporal and twelve Privates from the first
Pennsylvania brigade to be sent to repair the road leading
from Head Quarters to Paramus. They will Parade at the or-
derly office tomorrow morning eight o'clock with two days
Provision.
Colonel Vose is appointed one of the Field officers of the
day for tomorrow vice Colonel Angell indisposed.
17 In the writing of Tench Tilghman. Found among Arnold's papers after he fled to
the British.
18 Lieut. Col. Joseph Hait, of the Second Connecticut Regiment. He retired in
January, 1781.
19Maj. James Randolph Reid (Reed).
12 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
To COLONEL EPHRAIM BLAINE
Head Quarters, September 7, 1780.
Sir: I am informed there is a quantity of Rum in the hands
of some persons in the neighbourhood of the Slote, amount-
ing to about Thirty Hogsheads. At present the Army is desti-
tute of any and a supply is immediately and indispensably
requisite, which I find cannot be obtained in the ordinary
and usual line. I wish you to try to procure this Rum by pur-
chase or to be replaced in kind in a reasonable time as may be
most convenient; but if the holders of it will not part with
it in this way our necessities are so great that you must take it.
In this case you will also take care to make proper satisfaction
to the proprietors of it, either by returning a like quantity
or paying its just value as soon as circumstances will admit.
I am etc.20
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 8, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed, your favors of the 31st. ulto. and 3d.
instant. I should have been very glad had the situation of the
Works, which Count de Rochambeau is constructing for the de-
fence of the Island, admitted of the immediate dismission of
the three months Massachusetts Militia, but as it does not,
and the Count seems very desirous of compleating them, we
cannot but consent to their staying out their term of service,
should it be necessary.
I make no doubt but the State will do every thing possible to
accommodate the French Troops should circumstances require
them to take up their winter quarters in Rhode Island.
20 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
1780] CAMP GUARDS 13
We have received accounts of a very disagreeable nature from
the Southward. General Gates does not enter into particulars,
but only mentions that the Army under his command had
been totally defeated on the 16th: Augt. near Camden in South
Carolina. It is much to be feared that the whole of the Mary-
land line have either fallen or been taken, as the Militia broke
upon the first onset, and left them exposed to a very superior
force. I am &c.21 [ms.h.s.]
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia, Friday, September 8, 1780.
Parole Canterbury. Countersigns M., R.
Watchword Parade.
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Cilley
Lieutenant Colonel Dearborn
Major Leavensworth
Brigade Major Oliver
Major Rosekrans22 will do the duty of brigade Inspector in
Clinton's brigade during Major Fish's absence.
Lieutenant Luther Trowbridge of the 7th. Massachusetts'
regiment is appointed Adjutant to the same from the 1st. in-
stant vice Adjutant White Promoted.
A detachment to be paraded this afternoon five o'clock fur-
nished with one days provision and forty rounds per man;
Major Torrey to command.
There being considerable intervals between some of the bri-
gades; The Major Generals commanding wings will take care
that additional Camp guards are furnished for completing the
Chain of Centinels, along those intervals in front and rear.
21 In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
22Maj. James Rosekrans, of the Third New York Regiment. He retired in January,
1781.
For the Day Tomorrow
14 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
*To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Qrs. near Hackensack New-bridge,
September 8, 1780.
Sir : Since the letter which I did myself the honor to write
Congress the 20th. Ulto. I have been more attentively consider-
ing the import of the resolution of the 5th of August, and am
at a loss to satisfy myself as to its precise extent, whether it be
meant to authorise me to extend my views beyond the present
Campaign and even to apply to the Ministers of France and
Spain in Europe, or only to concert plans for the present fall
and Winter with the Ministers and Officers of those powers
on the Continent or in the West Indies. The latter appeared
to me the most natural construction and was the one I had
adopted, but intimations have been given me by particular
Gentlemen that Congress understood the resolve in the first
sense. If, I have been mistaken in my interpretation I request
to have the resolve explained in a full and explicit manner.
If I am right, no explanation will be necessary.23
I also take the liberty to request to be informed whether Con-
gress in two or three Months from the present period can rely
on being able to furnish Specie, or Bills on Europe for the main-
tenance of a body of four or five thousand men in a Country
where the paper of these States will not serve as a Currency.
I should also be glad if Congress will have the goodness to
assist me with some lights how far the States of South and
North Carolina have ability to contribute to the Support of an
Army in the Articles of Bread, Meat, Forage, Horses and Wag-
gons. I suppose an army to be there sufficient to secure to us
the full command of them.
23 No explanation by Congress is found in the Washington Papers or the Papers of
the Continental Congress.
1780] THE SITUATION 15
I entreat as speedy an answer as possible to these points,
which are of the greatest consequence in determining our
future plans, particularly I wish for immediate information
on the Subject of the money.
But the basis of every plan we can form is an Army and the
means of subsistence; without immediate measures to supply
the places of the Men who leave us, by the first of January we
shall scarcely have any thing that deserves the name of one.
Our whole efficient force in this quarter will then probably be
less than Six thousand Men. In proposing plans of co-opera-
tion, I must engage that something specific shall be performed
on our part. Congress will be sensible that I cannot do this,
as to any plan of future execution, when I know that our Army
will be reduced one half in less than four Months, and when
so far from being certain that we shall have it in our power to
replace the Men in time, I do not even know what measures
will be attempted for the purpose, nor when they will be under-
taken. The honor of Congress and the States as well as my
own reputation, forbid me to enter into engagements, which
I have no assurances of our being able to fulfil. I have the
honor etc.24
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, Newbridge, Bergen County,
September 8, 1780.
Sir: The great preparations of General Clinton have hitherto
resulted in nothing more than the sailing of a fleet of about
Ninety vessels of different sizes for Europe with a few invalids.
We are however still amused with rumours of an embarka-
tion; but these now go upon a new and more probable ground,
a decent upon Virginia. We have just received the most
24 The letter was read in Congress on September 12 and referred to the committee
on Washington's letter to the President of Congress of Aug. 20, 1780.
16 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
disagreeable advices from General Gates, of a defeat of the Army
under his command near Cambden in South Carolina the 16th.
of last month; in which the greatest part of his best troops
were cut off. We have not yet the details. This event must have
the worst effect upon the affairs of the Southern states; nor is
it easy to say how far its influence may extend. It is on this
account, I should not be astonished if the enemy should really
make a detachment of three or four thousand men to Virginia.
If convenient to you, I have the honor to propose the 20th.
instant for our interview at Hartford, where I hope we shall
be able to combine some plan of future operation which events
will enable us to execute. Our plans however can only turn
upon possibilities, which is the more unfortunate as the affairs
of this Country absolutely require activity on whatever side
they are viewed.
I intend to conceal here the time of the intended interview.
I dare say you will think it advisable to do the same on your part.
I had the pleasure of receiving last night your letter of the
3d. instant. With the truest esteem etc.
P. S. I have also rec'd your letter of the 26th. and [sic] happy
to find my dispatches have all got safe. The Marquis de la
Fayette and the Commandant of Artillery 25 and Engineers 26
will accompany me.27
To CHEVALIER DE TERNAY
Head Quarters, New Bridge, Bergen County,
September 8, 1780.
Sir: I have received the letter which you did me the honor to
write me the 21st. of last month. Whenever circumstances may
25 Brig. Gen Henry Knox.
26 Lieut. Col. Jean Baptiste Gouvion.
"The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton; the P. S. is in that of Richard
Kidder Meade.
1780] BANK'S HELP TO THE ARMY Y7
require the attendance of the two officers, they will be instructed
to repair to your orders.28
I have the honor to propose the 20th. instant for our intended
interview. I shall be at Hartford on that day, if the time is
agreeable to you; where I shall at least have the pleasure to
assure you personally of my esteem and attachment. I am etc.29
To SAMUEL MEREDITH
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 9, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, your favr. of the 27th ulto. I am sorry that
the Abilities of the Gentlemen of the Bank should not be equal
to their inclinations or that any embarrassments should be
thrown in their way by local laws. I am however confident,
that every thing within their power will be done for the relief
of the Army and tho' their supplies may not come up to what
they at first intended, they will make a very acceptable and
material addition to those furnished by the several States.
I am etc.
To MAJOR GENERAL BENEDICT ARNOLD
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 9, 1780.
Dear Sir: I am favd. with yours of yesterday. I believe the
Army will soon be called upon for every person any ways nec-
essary for its support, but we are drove to such extremities in
the article of provision particularly, that to obtain it, we must
submit to any terms which are demanded. I would for that
reason wish you, if possible, to spare Colo. Hay all or part of
^Ternay had requested that two American officers be assigned him and subject to
his orders.
'"'The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
18 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
the Men required;30 but if it should be inconvenient to draw
off the two Companies of Colo. Malcoms Brigade, who I sup-
pose are particularly well acquainted with the Country below,
I would not mean to confine you to them. In short if you can
comply with Colo. Hays request, you will do it in the manner
which best suits your general arrangement.
We have not yet received any further accounts of the south-
ern misfortune. I am etc.
P. S. I have this moment reed, a letter from Gov. Jefferson
by which it appears that above one half the Maryland division
had made their retreat good after a most obstinate engagement.
I hope now matters are on the mending hand, our next ac-
counts will be yet more favorable.31
*To JOSEPH JONES
Head Quarters, September 9, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have heard that a new arrangement is about to
take place in the Medical Department, and that it is likely,
it will be a good deal curtailed with respect to its present
appointments.
Who will be the persons generally employed I am not in-
formed, nor do I wish to know; however I will mention to you,
that I think Doctrs. Craik and Cochran from their Services,
abilities and experience, and their close attention, have the strict-
est claim to their Country's notice, and to be among the first
Officers in the Establishment.
There are many other deserving characters in the Medical
line of the Army, but the reasons for my mentioning the
30 Hay had requested the loan of two companies from the West Point garrison to
assist in threshing out grain for the Army.
slIn the writing of Tench Tilghman. Found among Arnold's papers after he fled to
the British.
1780] MEDICAL OFFICERS 19
above Gentlemen are, that I have the highest opinion of them;
and have had it hinted to me that the new arrangement might
possibly be influenced by a spirit of party out of Doors, which
would not operate in their favor. I will add no more than
that I am
With the most perfect regd. etc.32
To JOHN MATHEWS
Head Quarters, September 9, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have heard . . . 33 among the first Officers in the
Establishment. Doctors Latimore, Tilton, Hagan, and Town-
shend, who are now Senior Surgeons, are also Gentlemen of
great merit and have a just claim to be continued; from their
abilities, attention and other considerations. They are all single
Men, and therefore, being otherwise well qualified, are the most
eligible. I have received too, the most favourable reports of the
merits and attention of Doctor Jenifer, a Junior Surgeon, who is
in the same situation. A Doctor Craige, the present Apothecary
General, a Gentleman not personally known to me, has been
reported to me as very deserving of the Appointment.
The several Gentlemen I have mentioned, as I have observed,
appear to me to have the fairest pretensions to the public Es-
teem, and if they are honoured with proper places, I am satis-
fied the public will be greatly benefitted by their services.
There are many other . . . 34
From a photostat of the original kindly furnished by Dr. A. S. W. Rosenbach, of
New York City. The same letter was sent to James Duane. (See letter to John
Mathews, Sept. 9, 1780.)
The omitted portion is identical with Washington's letter to Joseph Jones, the same
date as this letter, q. v.
The omitted portion here is practically the same as the conclusion of Washing-
ton's letter to Joseph Jones, the same date as this letter, q. v. The draft is in the
writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
20 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
To MAJOR GENERALS NATHANAEL GREENE,
LORD STIRLING, AND LAFAYETTE
Head Quarters, September 9, 1780.
Gentlemen : I am apprehensive that neither the fixed pickets
for the security of the Army, nor the duties of the patrolls are
sufficiently established. You will therefore be pleased to have
a meeting for the purpose of taking the matter into considera-
tion, and making such regulations, as will at the same time
contribute to safety and to the ease of the duty by dividing it
between the Infantry and the Wings.
As some difficulties may arise by putting Moylans and Lees
Horse on duty together, I would recommend it to you to as-
sign different quarters of the Army to the care of each Corps.
I think a picket at the little ferry supersedes the necessity of a
patrol down Tean Neck, as no body of Men can get upon the
Neck without passing the ferry.
You will be pleased to make a report of the business to me.
I am etc.
To BRIGADIER GENERAL PETER MUHLENBERG
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 9, 1780.
Sir: I have been favd. with yours of the 24th. ulto. My letter
of the 15th: Augt. will have fully answered you on the sub-
ject of appropriating part of the levies to filling up the two
state Regiments, and on the cases of the prisoners who escaped
from Charlestown.
The late unfortunate stroke to the southward will render
the exertions of the state and of every individual more than
commonly necessary. I trust that nothing will be left undone
on your part, to collect the levies, arrange them, and procure
1780] NEED OF CLOTHING 21
Arms and Cloathing for them; The two last I fear will be at-
tended with great difficulty, as a very small part of the number
of either expected from France have arrived in the Alliance
Frigate at Boston. I am etc.35
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 9, 1780.
Sir: I have been informed that large quantities of Goods,
proper for the use of the Army, have lately arrived to the East-
ward, in the prizes captured out of the Quebec Fleet. The
disappointment of not receiving the Cloathing expected from
France by the Alliance Frigate, and the uncertainty of the safe
arrival of the Ariel, on board of which it is said it was after-
wards to have been shipped, (but which by some mischance
may be again neglected,) would make a purchase of part of
the goods above mentioned, a most desirable object. I cannot
just now obtain an exact return of the woolen Cloathing in
the public Magazines, but to the best of my recollection it does
not amount to three thousand compleat suits including what
came in the Alliance, and I am inclined to think that the
greater part of our old stock is of a very inferior quality, and
scarcely worth wearing.
Your Excellency will perceive from the above state, what
will be our situation the ensuing Winter, should we again
meet with a disappointment, or should the quantity fall short
of our expectations. It is a matter so extremely important,
that I cannot help taking the liberty of submitting to Congress
the expediency of immediately securing as much Cloth and
linen as will be adequate to the wants of the Army. Should a
sufficient stock afterwards arrive, and should it be found
3 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
22 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
inconvenient, on account of the state of our finances, to keep
this purchase, I should suppose the Goods might be easily dis-
posed of without loss to the public.
I have the honor to transmit your Excellency a letter I re-
ceived yesterday from Majr. Genl. Howe, inclosing one from
Brigr. Genl. Nixon, upon the subject of the latter's resigna-
tion, which can only be accepted by Congress. I should hope
they will indulge General Nixon in his request. I have the
honor etc.
P.S. I have received information of an intended embarkation
of troops from New York, said to be bound to the southward;
but matters were not in sufficient forwardness to ascertain the
number, the destination, or whether there was any real founda-
tion for the report.36
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Saturday, September 9, 1780.
Parole Barcelona. Countersigns Fix, Firm.
Watchword Drummers.
Brigadier General Irvine
Colonel Starr
Lieutenant Colonel North
Major Talbot
Brigade Major Ashley
The Commander in Chief thinks proper to mention that
many officers who are sent on Extra Commands occasion both
him and themselves a great deal of unnecessary trouble by not
keeping more particular accounts of their expences than those
86In the writing of Tench Tilghman. The letter was read in Congress on Septem-
ber 12. It is indorsed: "What relates to cloathing Referred to the board of War."
For the Day tomorrow
1780] OFFICERS' ACCOUNTS 23
they frequently exhibit and often reduce him to the painful
necessity either of admitting Claims Stated in terms of the
greatest generality, or of rejecting them or at least of postpon-
ing the payment from time to time 'till more particular ac-
counts can be made out; to prevent like inconveniences in
future he requests that all officers who are sent upon such
commands will be attentive to this matter, will note to whom
they pay Money. The date and Place and will make out their
accounts accordingly; and where Circumstances will admit it
will also be prudent even to take in the bills they pay and re-
ceipts. These particularities are required by the public they are
usual in private transactions between man and man and they
are necessary for the Generals justification.
He also thinks proper to enjoin again a pointed Attention to
the general orders published the 18th. of September last re-
specting Officers being sent on extra commands and that it is
not to be done but in the manner there prescribed.
AFTER ORDERS
Brigadier General Poor37 will be interred tomorrow after-
noon at Hackensack Church; the funeral procession will com-
mence at four o'clock from Brewer's house in front of the
Infantry.
Colonel Butler is appointed officer of the day for tomorrow
vice Colonel Starr indisposed.
*To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Qrs., near Hackensack, New bridge,
September 10, 1780.
Sir: In the letter which I did myself the honor of writing to
you yesterday (respecting the Cloths taken in the Quebec
STHe died on Sept. 8, 1780.
24 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
Fleet) I forgot to mention, tho' it was fully my intention to
have done it, that the Cargo's of those Vessels consisted in part
of Salted Beef and Porke,the securing of which (if good) would
be of infinite advantage to the Army in any operation, or for
the Garrison at West point if none can be undertaken. The pro-
priety and practicability of such a purchase is now submitted to
the consideration of Congress; and I have the honor etc.38
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Sunday, September 10, 1780.
Parole Greenwich. Countersigns Kent, Cork.
Watchword Liberty.
Brigadier General Clinton
Colonel Tupper
Lieutenant Colonel Sill
Major Grier
Brigade Major Darby39
At the General Court martial whereof Colonel Greaton is
president the 2nd. instant. Reuben George, an express rider,
was tried for "Delaying three hundred thousand dollars, on
the road, which he had in Charge to deliver to Moore Fur-
man, Esqr., Deputy Quartermaster General, for express pur-
pose of forwarding provision to the Army, which delay, if not
early discovered, would have been attended with most fatal
consequences to the Army; and secondly for expending part
of the money and making preparations to desert to Virginia
with the residue."
For the Day Tomorrow
38 The letter was read in Congress on September 14 and referred to the Board of
War.
39Maj. Samuel Darby, of the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred
to the Eighth Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and served to June, 1783.
1780] COURTS-MARTIAL SENTENCES 25
At the same Court Joseph Smallwood, a waggoner in the
Continental service, was tried for Insulting and Knocking
Lieutenant Barrett40 off his horse on the public road on the
23d. of August last.
The Court are of opinion that Reuben George delayed three
hundred thousand dollars on the road, which he had in charge
to deliver to Moore Furman, Esqr., Deputy quarter master gen-
eral, but it does not appear to them that the prisoner knew the
purpose the money was sent for, or the Consequences that
would have attended the delay of it. They are further of opin-
ion that he expended part of the Money but it does not appear
that he made preparations to desert to Virginia with the resi-
due. They do sentence the Prisoner to repay the Money to the
Quarter Master general he has expended, to receive one hun-
dred lashes on his bare back and to be dismissed from his
employment.
They are also of opinion that the Prisoner Smallwood is
Guilty of the Charge exhibited against him and do Sentence
him to receive one hundred lashes on his bare back.
The General approves the sentences and orders them to be
carried into Execution tomorrow morning on the Grand Pa-
rade at Guard mounting. And orders Reuben George to be
recommitted to the Provost where he is to remain 'till released
by General Greene's order.
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 10, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received your favr. of the 6th; with the
intelligence to which it refers. Should any part of the Fleet
40 Lieut. James Barrett, of the Fourth New York Regiment. He retired in January,
1781.
26 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
mentioned by Capt. Jotham be destined for the Continent, we
must soon hear of them. Lest my letter of the 28th : ulto. in an-
swer to yours of the 22d. should have miscarried, I inclose you
a Copy. You will find in it an answer to all your questions,
except that which respects the Arms for Colo. Greenes Regt.
I would not wish the new ones brought by the Alliance to be
broken in upon, as they are compleatly made up for transporta-
tion; and since the great loss of Arms in the unfortunate stroke
upon General Gates's Army, it is more than probable we shall
be under the necessity of sending a further parcel to that
quarter. Iam&c.41 [ms.h.s.]
^INSTRUCTIONS FOR SPIES42
[September io(?), 1780.]
As late accts. as can possibly be obtained, and brought to this
place by Sunday Noon, the 17th. Instt. Septemr.
Of the precise situation of the enemy on York Island, Long
Island, and Staten Island, naming the Corps on each, and
where Posted
Know where General Clinton's head Qrs. are. And where
Generl. Knyphausen's.
Learn whether the enemy are throwing up any other Works
on Long Island besides those at Brooklyn. At what places, and
of what kind, whether open or inclosed, large or Small, and for
what purposes they seem intended.
A Description at least of Brooklyn Fort should be had, and
the size of it, if a plan can be had.
The State of the Garrison respecting provision.
41 In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
^These instructions were drawn up probably about the time that Washington de-
cided to go to Hartford. He intended, doubtless, to convey the resultant information
to the French general and admiral.
1780] EXCHANGE MATTERS 27
When the Cork fleet is expected and what other Vessels
arrive
A Particular acct. to be obtained of the Embarkation that is
talked. Know when it will take place, where destined, and
what Corps it will consist of.
Attend particularly to any movements of the enemy.
Enquire what their latest Accts. from the Southward are and
of what nature [n. y. h. s.3
To MAJOR GENERAL BENJAMIN LINCOLN
Head Quarters, September 10, 1780.
Sir: By a Letter I have received from Sir Henry Clinton of
the 4th. Instant, I find that the interview which has been pro-
posed between You and General Phillips, is to take place on the
19th of the Month at Elizabeth Town. I presume Sir Henry
Clinton informed you of this by the Letter I now transmit; and
I need not add that it will give me the highest pleasure if You
can effect your exchange either for Major General Phillips or
Major General de Reidesel.
From the prospect I had found on the correspondence which
I had seen, that there would be a meeting between You and
General Phillips on the subject of your exchange, and the
earnest desire I had of extending this business still farther, I was
induced to inform Sir Henry Clinton by a Letter of the 26th.
Ulto. that " I should direct our Commissary of prisoners to be
present at the time, who would be instructed to execute with
the Commissary on his part, if he should think proper to send
him, an exchange of Officers, prisoners of War, on the footing
of equal rank or composition, as far as the number in our hands
would admit and to include also the whole of the Officers of
Convention now on parole at New York or in Europe." Gen-
eral Clinton has answered my Letter and informed me " His
28 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
Commissary of Prisoners should attend." I shall accordingly
order Mr Skinner, our Deputy Commissary of prisoners to be
at Elizabeth Town on the 19th. who will be fully instructed to
carry my propositions to Sir Henry Clinton into execution.
The business as to the main points will rest on the most simple
footing and such as Mr Skinner is perfectly acquainted with;
he has also a familiar knowledge of the few more particular
cases which can arise on the occasion, as he has been long in
office and has had not only repeated instructions but has acted
upon the subject. From these considerations I will not give
You any trouble in the matter more than to wish you to in-
terest General Phillips as far as You can with propriety, if You
should find it necessary to promote and countenance the ex-
changes which are mutually interesting to both parties.43
Before you set out for Elizabeth Town I will shew You the
Instructions Mr. Skinner will receive. I have the Honor etc.44
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 11, 1780.
Sir : I have received your Excellency's favor of the 6th : I have
no intelligence of Admiral Arbuthnots arrival at New York
or at Sandy Hook; Perhaps he may be standing at a greater
distance from the land than heretofore, to avoid the Gales of
Wind which may be commonly expected upon the Coast at
this Season.
I received the following from New York yesterday, whether
the Men of War alluded to were the English Fleet or a French
Squadron time must determine "September 7th: 1780. since
writing yesterday the ship Admiral Arbuthnot arrived and
43 Clinton had empowered Phillips to negotiate an exchange of the Convention
troops with Lincoln. (See Washington's letter to the President of Congress, Oct. 15,
1780, post.)
"The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
1780] GATES'S DEFEAT 29
the Capt. of Marines tells me they were chased all last Sunday
by a fleet of eight sail of heavy ships all two and three deckers
which they took to be the second division of the French. As
soon as this news came to town, a ship was sent out to cruise,
and the Galatea will sail to day if they can get her ready, they
have two hundred hands at work upon her."
I have accounts thro' a variety of channels that an embar-
kation of troops is preparing at New York; their number and
destination is not ascertained, the accounts differ materially as
to the first, but they seem generally to agree that they are bound
for Virginia or Carolina.
Your Excellency may be assured of being regularly informed
of every move of the enemy, and that no pains shall be spared
to penetrate their designs. I have the honor etc.45
To GOVERNOR THOMAS JEFFERSON
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September n, 1780.
Sir: I am exceedingly obliged by your Excellency's favour
of the 3d. It has indeed relieved me from much anxiety, as,
from Genl. Gates's letter of the 20th Augt. from Hillsborough,
there was the greatest reason to apprehend that the whole of the
Maryland line and the troops which made a stand with them
had been cut off.46 The stroke, as it is, is severe; but the total
loss of the regulad troops, would have rendered the speedly
assemblage of another Army extremely difficult.
The loss of the Arms, which were thrown away by the Mi-
litia, is a most disagreeable circumstance at this time, as we
are much disappointed in the quantity expected in the Alli-
ance Frigate lately arrived at Boston, she having brought two
45 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
46 No accurate returns of Gates's loss are available. He noted that about 700 of the
Maryland line rejoined him after the battle, most of them with their arms. There
appear to be no accurate returns of Gates's force, even before the battle.
30 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
thousand stand only. I am however happy to hear that the
three thousand stand sent from Philada. were yet on their
way to Virginia, as they will be nearly if not quite sufficient
to arm the Levies for 18 Months and the old soldiers who may
be collected.47
The Cloathing by the Alliance was as deficient of the ex-
pected quantity as that of the Arms. I mention this circum-
stance, lest the Legislature, depending upon public importations,
should relax in their endeavour to procure it by their own
means. Indeed should the whole of what has been spoken of
arrive, it will be inadequate to our wants.
In my letter of the 29th: Augt. which had not reached you,
I informed you of the objections which would be made to
shipping Tobacco to New York to supply the wants of our
prisoners.
Your Excellency's favor without date, accompanied by let-
ters from the General Officers at Charlotteville came safety to
hand. I am sorry that they have so good ground to complain
of the deficiency of provisions, but while they make those rep-
resentations, they ought to consider that we are upwards of one
hundred thousand pounds Sterling in advance upon that score
and that they either cannot or will not pay us one farthing.
Immediately upon hearing of the disaster near Campden I
directed the additional Regiment of Maryland which was on
the march to join this Army to return and proceed to the
Southward. This Regt. is raised for the War and by the last
returns amounted to above 400 Men.
I have accounts thro' a variety of channels that an embarka-
tion is preparing at New York. They differ materially as to
47 At this point the draft has the following crossed out: "and I would take the
liberty of earnestly recommending to your Excellency that these Arms may be appro-
priated to those purposes and not delivered to the Militia; except you find the other
troops cannot be raised."
1780] REMOVAL OF STORES 31
numbers, but the prevailing opinion is, that they are either
bound to Virginia or Carolina. The moment I am more par-
ticularly informed, I will communicate the intelligence to your
Excellency. In the mean time I think it would be prudent to
direct the removal of any public stores which may be upon
navigable waters, and to make the arrangements which may be
necessary for defence in case such an event should take place.
There has been no alteration in the situation of things in this
quarter or with the Fleet and Army of our Ally since I had
the honor of addressing you last. I have the honor etc.48
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Monday, September n, 1780.
Parole Portsmouth. Countersigns Poor, Pallas.
Watchword Magnanimity.
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel Craig
Lieutenant Colonel Johnston
Major Ball
.Brigade Major Pettingall
Lieutenant Pride49 of the third Connecticut regiment is Ap-
pointed Adjutant to the same from the 1st. of May last, vice
Adjutant Hart50 promoted.
AFTER ORDERS
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant Reid is Appointed officer
of the day tomorrow vice Colonel Craig.
48 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
49 Lieut Reuben Pride. He was transferred to the First Connecticut Regiment in Janu-
ary, 1781, and retired in January, 1783.
^Capt. and Adjt. Jonathan Heart (Hart), of the Third Connecticut Regiment. He
was transferred to the First Connecticut Regiment in January, 1781; appointed brigade
major and inspector in January, 1781, to June, 1783; served to November. 1783.
For the day Tomorrow
32 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
To SIR HENRY CLINTON
Head Quarters, September n, 1780.
Sir: I beg leave to inform Your Excellency that We are de-
sirous of sending a small Vessel from Philadelphia to Charles
Town, with some Articles of Cloathing and Medicine and
also a quantity of flour for the prisoners there in your posses-
sion. I have to request that You will be so obliging as to fur-
nish, by an early opportunity, a permit for this purpose and
for the safe return of the Vessel. The Vessel is a Schooner
called the Blazing Starr; burthen about Ten Tons, Thomas
Smith Sailing Master, Charles McCarthy Flag Master and
Two private Seamen. I have the Honor etc.51
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Tuesday, September 12, 1780.
Parole Harford. Countersigns Humber, Hope.
Watchword Be punctual.
Brigadier General Patterson
Lieutenant Colonal Commandant
Weissenfells
Lieutenant Colonel Holdridge
Major Winslow 52
Brigade Major Rice
A Court of enquiry is ordered to set tomorrow morning
nine o'clock in the president's Markee at the request of Colo-
nel Angell to examine into his conduct in the action at
61 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
62Maj. Nathaniel Winslow, of the Tenth Massachusetts Regiment. He retired in
January, 1781.
For the day Tomorrow '
1780] AN EXECUTION 33
Springfield and report their opinion thereon. Colonel Nixon
is appointed President, Lieutenant Colonels DeHart and Vose,
Majors Reid and Grier Members. All Witnesses and Persons
concerned are desired to attend.
The General court Martial whereof Colonel Greaton is pres-
ident, is dissolved and another ordered to assemble tomorrow
morning nine o'clock at the President's Markee for the trial of
Major Murnan53 and such others as shall be brought before
the court. All persons concerned to attend. Colonel Dayton to
preside. Members Lieutenant Colonel Badlam Major Leav-
ensworth and a Captain from each brigade except the Jersey
and Stark's.
Brigade returns of the Serjeants, drums and fifes and rank
and file of the New York, Connecticutt, Massachusetts and
New Hampshire lines and of Angell's regiment who are en-
listed for the war to be transmitted to the orderly office tomor-
row at eleven o'clock.
David Hall, a soldier in Colonel Stewart's battalion of light
infantry convicted at a General court martial whereof colonel
Cortlandt is President of "Plundering an inhabitant of money
and plate" and being condemned to death is to be executed at
half past four o'clock this afternoon.
Fifty men properly officered from each brigade in the army
to attend the execution.
It has been much the General's desire to prevent enormities
of this kind which are as repugnant to the principles of the
cause in which we are engaged as oppressive to the inhabit-
ants and subversive of that order and discipline which must
Characterize every well regulated army.
The General again exhorts officers of every rank to pay the
closest attention to the conduct of their men and to use the
3Maj. Jean Bernard Gauthier de Murnans.
34 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
utmost precaution to prevent the soldiers from rambling and
committing such outrages, the subject of daily complaint
and representation to him; it is highly incumbent on them to
do this to prevent the consequences which will follow as he is
determined to shew no favor to Soldiers who are convicted of
these pernicious and disgraceful offences.
Part of the Effects of the late Brigadier General Poor among
which are several suits of Cloaths, a genteel small sword, sash,
Epauletts, and many other articles will be vendued at Lieu-
tenant Colonel Dearborn's Marquee in the New Hampshire
brigade tomorrow morning ten o'clock.
AFTER ORDERS
The army will parade tomorrow morning eight o'clock by
brigades on their respective brigade parades. The General
wishes the line to be as full as possible. The new Guards will
remain in the Line 'till the review is over. The Light corps
will parade at ten o'clock.
To PRESIDENT JAMES BOWDOIN
Head Quarters, near Hackensack Bridge,
September 12, 1780.
Gentn: Notwithstanding the Second Division expected from
France has not arrived, we have good reason to think it will
make its appearance before it is long upon our coast, or that the
Chevalier de Ternay will at any rate receive a reinforcement
which will give him a naval superiority in these seas. If this
should be the case the delicate and pressing situation of our
affairs will require that we avail ourselves of the succour if it
shall be practicable, in some way or other. The circumstances
of the season may be such possibly, as to prevent any operation
in this quarter but still perhaps something may be attempted
1780] DISTRESS FOR MEAT 35
elsewhere with a good prospect of success and advantage. But
this will depend on the means we have of subsisting our Troops.
At present, unfortunately for us, were we in the fullest posses-
sion of a naval superiority and the fairest opportunities were to
present themselves for striking a Stroke, we could not trans-
port even a small body of Troops to any point however inter-
esting and certain the Object for want of salt provisions. From
these considerations, it is a matter of the greatest importance
that we should have a supply immediately procured if it is
possible. Every thing may depend upon it and must, so far as
any Enterprise is attempted, except against New York. I have
heard that a very considerable quantity of beef and pork was
captured in the Quebec fleet. If this is the fact, it seems to be
the only source from which we can hope to obtain a supply,
and from the necessity of the case I take the liberty to entreat
you and will endeavour to secure it. I would wish at least Four
thousand Barrels to be provided if it be by any means practi-
cable and I am certain the Council will render the states the
most essential service by the measure. But if after all, events
should occur to make this supply unnecessary, the provision
will not prove an incumbrance on their hands and will always
bring it's cost. I confide in the goodness of the Council to ex-
cuse this freedom and persuade myself that they will most
readily place the application to the motives which have really
produced it.
I am pained to inform Your Honorable body that our dis-
tresses for meat still continue pressing and alarming. The sup-
plies we have received, including the Cattle which have been
exacted from the Inhabitants of this state and in many in-
stances to their entire ruin and which have made no inconsid-
erable part, have been little more than sufficient to satisfy a
third of our necessary demands. The troops on some occasions
36 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
have been even four and five days without a mouthful of
meat. Complaints and murmuring, a relaxation of discipline,
marauding, robbery and desertion are the consequences, and
indeed it is to be wondered at that they have not prevailed to
a much greater extent. I am satisfied things cannot continue
long in their present situation. I have the honor etc.54
To GOVERNOR JOHN RUTLEDGE
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 12, 1780.
Dear Sir: I had the pleasure, a few days ago, of receiving
your Excellency's favor of the 27th. Augt. from Philadelphia.
I am extremely sorry that circumstances did not admit of your
intended visit to the Army, as I could, in a personal confer-
ence, have entered more minutely into a detail of our Affairs,
than I can with safety commit to paper.
Your Excellency may rest assured, that I am fully impressed
with the importance of the southern states, and of course with
the necessity of making every effort to expel the enemy from
them. The late unlucky affair near Campden renders their
situation more precarious, and calls for every exertion to stop,
at least, the further progress of the British Army. It is to be
wished that the composition of our force in this quarter, our
resources, and the present situation of the Fleet and Army of
our Ally admitted of an immediate and sufficient detachment,
not only to answer the purpose I have just mentioned, but to
carry on operations of a more serious and extensive nature.
But this not being the case, for reasons which must be obvious
to you, let it suffice that your Excellency be informed, that our
views tend ultimately to the southward. In the mean time
our endeavours, in that quarter, should be directed, rather to
The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
1780] PROVISIONS IN THE SOUTH 37
checking the progress of the enemy by a permanent, compact
and well organized body of Men, than attempting immedi-
ately to recover the State of South Carolina, by a numerous
Army of Militia, who, [besides being inconceivably expensive
are] too fluctuating and undisciplined to oppose one com-
posed chiefly of regular troops. I would recommend to you
therefore to make use of your influence with the States from
Maryland southward to raise without delay at least five thou-
sand Men for the war if it can be effected, if not, for as long
a time as possible. These with the Militia in the Vicinity,
would answer the purpose I have last mentioned, and would in
proper time make a useful body either to form a diversion
in favor of or to cooperate with a force upon the coast. I have
hinted the outlines of a plan to your Excellency, which for
many reasons should be, in general, kept to yourself: You will
oblige me by informing yourself as accurately as possible what
may be the present resources of the Country as to Meat, Corn,
Wheat or Rice and transportation, as I suppose circumstances
may have occasioned a considerable change. And if it is pos-
sible to form Magazines of either, it should be done, especially
of salt meat, which is an Article as essential to military opera-
tions, that the States of Virginia and North Carolina should
be requested to lay up as soon as the weather will permit at
least 4000 Barrels in proportion to their respective Abilities.
You will also be pleased to endeavour to gain a knowledge of
the force of the enemy, the posts they occupy, the nature and
state of those posts, and the reinforcements they may probably
derive from the people of the Country. As you receive these
several intelligences, you will be pleased to communicate them
to me, [with your opinion of the best place for debarking
Troops in case of an Expedition agt. the enemy in the Southern
States, and the names of Persons in that Qr. whose opinion
38 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
and advice may be serviceable in such an event. With much
esteem etc.]55
To CHEVALIER DE LA LUZERNE
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 12, 1780.
Sir: I have the honor to inclose you a letter which upon the
whole I have thought it advisable to write to the Count De
Guichen. As its contents are of a nature to make its falling
into the Enemy's hands in its present form dangerous, and as
I have no cypher of communication with the Count I take the
liberty to request Your Excellency's assistance in making use
of yours and forwarding it by triplicates with your dispatches
by the first opportunities.
I make no mention of a Land force because though it would
be useful it may be dispensed with. But if a body of Troops
could conveniently accompany the Fleet, it would give greater
energy and certainty of success to our operations. I am the
more induced to desire it, as the composition of a considerable
part of our army is temporary and I am not informed what
measures may be taken to replace the men whose times of
service will expire.
I need use no arguments to convince Your Excellency of the
extremity to which our affairs are tending and the necessity of
support. You are an Eye-witness to all our perplexities and
all our wants. You know the dangerous consequences of leav-
ing the Enemy in quiet possession of their Southern conquests,
either for negotiation this Winter or a continuance of the
War; you know our inability alone to expel them; or perhaps
even to stop their career. I have the honor etc.56
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. The portions in brackets are in
the writing of Washington.
58 In the writing of Richard Kidder Meade. From a photostat of the original in the
Paris Archives, Aff. Etrang., Mems. et Docs., E. U., vol. 6.
1780] FRENCH FLEETS BLOCKADED 39
To COMTE DE GUICHEN57
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 12, 1780.
Sir : The Marquis De la Fayette arrived in America in april
last charged by the Court of France, to announce to me its in-
tention to send a fleet and army to cooperate with the troops of
these States. Foreseeing that this succour would not have the
intended effect from an insufficiency of the naval force, which
would probably be found inferior to the enemy, I requested the
Marquis to represent to you the situation of affairs on this Con-
tinent, the necessity of an active campaign, the great utility of
a detachment from your fleet to reinforce the one expected
from Europe, and give efficacy in the generous intentions
of your Court. I was persuaded, that if it were compatible
with your instructions, and the plans in contemplation in the
Islands, you would chearfully afford your assistance in a
cooperation so necessary to this country, so beneficial of the
common interest.
It appears since to have been the intention of your court to
send a larger succour than was at first mentioned; and that a
second division was to have followed that which has arrived
at Rhode Island. The late advices however from Europe show
that the execution of this project will at least be suspended by
the appearance of the British fleet off the Port of Brest; and
there is little hope that the second division can arrive in time
to undertake any operations against the enemy in this part of
the Continent.
The Chevalier De Ternay has informed you of his being
blocked in the port of Rhode Island, by a superior British
fleet; and the French troops are of course under a necessity of
67 Luc Urbain du Bouexic, Comte de Guichen, Lieutenant General and Com-
mander in Chief of the French Navy in the West Indies.
40 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
remaining there for the security of the fleet against a com-
bined attack by sea, and land; nor indeed could they be more
useful to us in any other position, a naval superiority being
essential to every enterprise in these States.
In consequence of the expected aid, great exertions have
been made on our part for offensive operations; an additional
expence (immense to this country in its present exhausted
state) has been incurred; great expectations have been excited
among the people, and if events do no permit us to derive cor-
respondent advantages, the disappointment will no doubt be
attended with effects very injurious to our affairs.
The situation of America at this time is critical; the Gov-
ernment without finances; its paper credit sunk, and no ex-
pedients it can adopt capable of retrieving it; the resources of
the country much diminished, by a five Years war, in which it
has made efforts beyond its ability. Clinton with an army of
ten thousand regular troops, aided by a considerable body
of militia, whom, from motives of fear and attachment he has
engaged to take arms, in possession of one of our capital
towns, and a large part of the State to which it belongs; the
savages desolating the other frontier; a fleet superior to that
of our allies, not only to protect him against any attempts of
ours, but to facilitate those he may project against us. Lord
Cornwallis with seven or eight thousand men in complete
possession of two States, Georgia and South Carolina; a third,
North Carolina, by recent misfortunes at his mercy, his force
dayly increasing by an accession of adherents, whom his suc-
cesses naturally procures him in a country inhabited in great
part, by emigrants from England and Scotland, who have not
been long enough transplanted to exchange their ancient habits
and attachments, in favor of their new residence.
1780] NAVAL SUPERIORITY 41
By a letter lately received from General Gates, we learn
that on the 16th. of last month, attempting to penetrate and
regain the State of South Carolina, he met with a total defeat
near Cambden, in which many of his troops have been cut
off, and the remainder dispersed, with the loss of all their
cannon and baggage.
The enemy are said to be now making a detachment from
New York for a Southern destination; if they push their suc-
cesses in that quarter, there is no saying where their career
may end. The opposition will be feeble, unless we can give
succour from hence, which from a variety of causes must de-
pend on a naval superiority.
In addition to the representation made to you by the Mar-
quis De la Fayette, the Chevalier De Ternay has done me the
honor to impart to me, that he has also applied to you for a
reinforcement to put him in condition to act.
Though I have entire confidence, that the steps already taken
will determine you to give us all the assistance which your situ-
ation, and the plans you have formed will permit; Yet as the
Honorable The Congress have lately thought proper to vest
me with full power to concert with the Officers of their most
Christian and Catholic Majesties, any enterprises which ap-
pear to me advantageous to the common cause, it becomes my
duty to address you immediately myself, and to expose to you
the dangers and difficulties we experience in the present pos-
ture of our affairs; that you may judge how essential your
assistance would be to us at this juncture.
I write to you with that confidence and candor which ought
to subsist between allies, and between military men. In my eye
the interest of France and America are the same; and to con-
ceal our embarrassmsents would be to betray both. While I
42 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
assure you that the latter stands in need of the most vigorous
assistance of its friends, I entreat you to believe, that I am as
remote from exaggerating as from palliating; and that I do
not heighten the picture from a partiality to our own interest.
The Chevalier De la Luzerne, whom I shall beg to transmit
you this Letter in cyphers, will I doubt not add his testimony
to mine.
To propose, at this time, a plan of precise cooperation would
be fruitless. I shall only observe in general, that any succour
you could send in consequence of this letter, must arrive too
late for an enterprize against New York; but an unequivocal
naval superiority would I hope enable us to act decisively in
the Southern extremity.
The 20th. instant is appointed for an interview with the
Count De Rochambeau and the Chevalier De Ternay,in which
we shall probably combine several plans dependent for the ex-
ecution on different contingencies, one of which will be the
arrival of a detachment from your fleet.
Convinced as I am, that the independence of America is the
primary object of the war with your Court, it is unnecessary to
offer any other motives to engage your exertions in our favor.
I might otherwise remark, that the destruction of the enemy
here would greatly facilitate the reduction of their Islands.
Supplies in much greater abundance, and on much better
terms might then be drawn from hence to forward your opera-
tions there; and these States disencumbered of an internal war
might unite her inhabitants and resources in vigorous efforts
against the common enemy elsewhere for the benefit of the
common cause.
I am happy in this opportunity of congratulating you on the
advantages you have reaped in your different combats; as glo-
rious to the flag of France, as humiliating to that of Britain.
1780] PILOTS NEEDED 43
My happiness would be complete if the coasts of this Continent
should add to your laurels.
With the sentiments of the most perfect respect, etc.58
To COLONEL NEHEMIAH HUBBARD
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 13, 1780.
Sir: I have made an appointment to meet the Count de
Rochambeau and the Chevalier de Ternay, who will be accom-
panied by the commanding Officers of Artillery and Engineers
in the French Army, at Harford59 on the 20th: Instant. The
Marquis de la Fayette, Genl. Knox and the commanding Offi-
cers of the Corps of Engineers in our service will accompany
me. You will be pleased to provide the best quarters which the
town affords, and make every necessary preparation of Forage
and other matters. I shall have an escort of twelve or fifteen
Dragoons. The French General will probably have a like num-
ber. I am etc.60
To CAPTAIN WILLIAM DOBBS
Head Quarters, September 13, 1780.
Sir : By a variety of Accounts received through different chan-
nels and which from the correspondence between them appear
to be probably true, it would seem as if Your and Capt. Shaw's
services may be again called for, and in the course of a very
few days, if not immediately. I wish You to keep the matter an
entire secret; but at the same time that You will be in readiness
to proceed to Rhode Island on the shortest notice, either from
68In the writing of David Humphreys. From a photostat of the original in the
Paris Archives, Aff. Etrang., Mems. et Docs., E. U., vol. 6.
69 Hartford, Conn.
60 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
44 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
Myself, Count De Rochambeau, or the Chevalier De Ternay.
I inclose a Letter for Captain Shaw to the same effect, which
You will be pleased to forward to him. I am &c.61
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, New Bridge, September 13, 1780.
Sir: The idea of an embarkation gains strength by the con-
curring testimony of emissaries and deserters and seems to be
on the point of taking place. On such an event it might be of
importance that we should both be with our respective armies,
which induces me to request our meeting may be deferred
'till the 20th. instant. I hope this letter will arrive in time to
anticipate your setting out; and that no inconvenience will
attend the delay. As I will not detain the express to write to
the Admiral, I beg the favour of you to impart the contents of
my letter to him. I have the honor etc.
P. S. I am obliged to your Excelly. for your letter of the 9th.
and the intelligence it contains; similar advices are just come
from Philadelphia.62
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 13, 1780.
Sir: This will be presented to your Excellency by Captain
Hendricks Solomon of Stockbridge who with about Twenty
of his Tribe have been serving as Volunteers with the army
since the beginning of July. They have been generally at-
tached to the Light Infantry and have conducted themselves
81 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison. The same letter was sent
to Capt. Daniel Shaw.
62The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
1780] STOCKBR1DGE INDIANS 45
with great propriety and fidelity; seeing no immediate pros-
pect of any operations in this quarter in which they can be
serviceable, they are desirous of returning home after receiv-
ing some compensation for the time which they have been
with us, and after having made a visit to Philadelphia. I have
thought it best to gratify them, not only on account of its be-
ing agreeable to them, but because I have it not in my power
to furnish them with some articles of Cloathing which they
request and which they would prefer to money. Congress
will I doubt not direct such a supply as they shall think proper.
Captain Solomon with part of these people were with us in
the year 1778. The Tribe suffered severely that Campaign in a
skirmish with the Enemy, in which they lost their Chief and
several of their Warriors. I have the honor etc.63
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, New Bridge, September 13, 1780.
Sir: I have just received advices from pretty good authority,
of which the inclosed is a copy. From the complexion and
agreement of these accounts, it seems very probable that the
Count De Guichen is really approaching the coast. Should
this be the case it is of so much importance to lose no time in
concerting our plans, that I renew my proposal for meeting
you and the Admiral the 20th. instant and shall be at Hart-
ford accordingly. The inconveniences which may attend our
absence on the supposition mentioned in my letter of this
morning are not a counterballance for the advantages of the
interview on the present supposition.
60 In the writing of Richard Kidder Meade. The letter was read in Congress on
September 22. It is indorsed: "Referred to the board of War to take order."
46 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
Should the Count De Guichen arrive before the end of this
month, I still recommend New York to be our object; and in
this view I cannot forbear repeating to you how essential it is
that the fleet should instantly proceed to take possession of the
port, and that your troops should as soon as possible form a
junction with ours by way of the Sound. The former is in my
opinion the most critical point of the operation and the ad-
vanced period of the season increases the necessity for dispatch
in the execution. I mention this lest the arrival of the Count
De Guichen should antecede our interview.
I have directed Captains Dobbs and Shaw to hold them-
selves in readiness to repair to the fleet on the first notice. A
letter from the Admiral or from you to Capt Dobbs at Fish
Kill, will be immediately obeyed. I have the honor etc.64
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Wednesday, September 13, 1780.
Parole Bender. Countersigns T., X.
Watchword Rome.
Brigadier General Wayne
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant
Butler
Lieutenant Colonel Whiting
Major Throop
Brigade Major White
The General Court Martial whereof Colonel Dayton is Pres-
ident will sit tomorrow morning nine o'clock at the president's
Markee, Lieutenant Colonel Hait is appointed a member of the
Court vice Lieutenant Colonel Badlam absent.
For the Day Tomorrow
64 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
1780] CANNON FROM WEST POINT 47
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 13, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed, your favor of the 9th: inclosing Capt.
Earles 6o account of the French Fleet in the West Indies. There
is intelligence of a similar nature from Philadelphia.
You will be pleased to forward the inclosed letter for Mr.
Bowdoin immediately by Express. I am etc.66 cms. h. s.]
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Thursday, September 14, 1780.
Parole Massachusetts. Countersigns Putnam, Lincoln.
Watchword Merit.
Brigadier General Huntington
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant
Hubly
Lieutenant Colonel Mentges
Major Harwood67
Brigade Major Moore
Colonel H. Jackson is appointed President of the General
Court Martial vice Colonel Dayton ordered on command.
To MAJOR GENERAL BENEDICT ARNOLD
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 14, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed: your favors of the nth: and 12th.
I have no objection to your sending down the two pieces of
Cannon to Colo. Gouvion.
For the Day Tomorrow
65 Capt. John Earl (Earle). He was a sea captain.
°In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
67Maj. Peter Harwood, of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment. He resigned in Octo-
ber, 1780.
48 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
Under the circumstances you mention you may detain the
Men of Colo. Putnams Regt. who are serving as Bargemen
to you, and if you can withdraw the Batteaumen sent down to
Kings ferry, with convenience, it will be a measure intirely
agreeable to me.
I hope Colo. Hays plans for obtaining a supply of Flour
from the State of New York and his application to the people
of the Grants will both meet with success. He is a faithful
and indefatigable Officer. I am &c.
P. S. I shall be at Peekskill on Sunday evening, on my way
to Harford to meet the French Admiral and General. You
will be pleased to send down a guard of a Captain and 50 at
that time, and direct the Qr. Master to endeavour to have a
nights forage for about forty Horses. You will keep this to
yourself, as I want to make my journey a secret.68
To NATHANIEL PEABODY
Head Quarters, September 14, 1780.
Sir: I have been duly favored with yours of the 12th. inclos-
ing the several articles of intelligence respecting the fleet of
our allies; for which I beg you will accept my thanks.
Thro' several different channels I had previously received
information that a squadron of heavy ships, with a number
of Frigates had sailed from Cape Francois the destination of
which was unknown. I am happy in receiving any additional
circumstances, which may tend to ascertain an object of so
much importance. Amongst other things, it would have given
me pleasure to have been informed of the state of your health;
which however I cannot but flatter myself is much better, that
it may be speedily and perfectly recovered, is the sincere wish
of Sir Your etc.69 [h.lj
'The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
sIn the writing of David Humphreys.
1780] DEPENDENCE ON MILITIA 49
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Friday, September 15, 1780.
Parole Russia. Countersigns N., C.
Watchword Hark Hark!
MORNING ORDERS
Major Ball is appointed a Member of the Court of Enquiry
whereof Colonel Nixon is President vice Major Reid on com-
mand.
Brigadier General Stark
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant
Smith
Lieutenant Colonel Huntington
Major Wyllys
Brigade Major Van Laer
For the day tomorrow
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, New Bridge, September 15,™ 1780.
Sir: I am honored with your letters of the 6th. and 8th. in-
stant with their inclosures; happy to find that the late disaster
in Carolina has not been so great as its first features indicated.
This event however, adds itself to many others to exemplify
the necessity of an army, the fatal consequences of depending
on Militia. Regular Troops alone are equal to the exigencies
of modern war, as well for defence as offence, and whenever a
"This letter of September 15 evidently was not sent out from headquarters until
September 16, as at 10 a. m. of that day Washington wrote a brief note to the Presi-
dent of Congress, inclosing a copy of a letter of September 14 from Brig. Gen. David
Forman, informing him that Admiral Rodney had arrived at Sandy Hook, from the
West Indies, with 12 ships of the line and 4 frigates, and had captured a French
frigate on his way. "I fear the intelligence is true." This letter is in the Papers of the
Continental Congress.
50 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
substitute is attempted it must prove illusory and ruinous. No
Militia will ever acquire the habits necessary to resist a regular
force. Even those nearest the seat of War are only valuable as
light Troops to be scattered in the woods and plague rather
than do serious injury to the Enemy. The firmness requisite
for the real business of fighting is only to be attained by a con-
stant course of discipline and service. I have never yet been
witness to a single instance diat can justify a different opin-
ion; and it is most earnestly to be wished the liberties of Amer-
ica may no longer be trusted in any material degree to so
precarious a dependence.
I cannot but remark that it gives me pain to find, the meas-
ures pursuing to the Southward still turn upon accumulating
large bodies of Militia instead of once for all making a decided
effort to have a permanent force. In my ideas of the true sys-
tem of war to the Southward, the object ought to be to have a
good army rather than a large one. Every exertion should be
made by North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland and Delaware
to raise a permanent force of Six Thousand men exclusive of
Horse and Artillery. These with the occasional aid of the Mi-
litia in the vicinity of the scene of action, will not only suffice
to prevent the further progress of the Enemy; but, if prop-
erly supplied to oblige them to compact their force and relin-
quish a part of what they now hold. To expel them from the
Country intirely is what we cannot aim at, till we derive more
effectual support from abroad; and by attempting too much,
instead of going forward, we shall go backward. Could such
a force be once on foot it would immediately make an incon-
ceivable change in the face of affairs, in the opposition to the
Enemy, expence, consumption of provision, waste of arms
stores &ca. No magazines can be equal to the demands of an
army of Militia, and none ever needed oeconomy more than
ours.
1780] CERTIFICATES 51
Speaking of Magazines, I beg leave to observe that it is of
infinite importance to endeavour to establish ample ones in
the Southern States. I mean more particularly of provisions,
not only with a view to an immediate supply of the Troops
there; but also with a view to offensive operations in that
quarter. A quantity of salt provision would be of great utility.
It is deplorable that if other circumstances suited our wishes
we cannot reasonably undertake any thing for want of provi-
sions. Here the Country might on an emergency afford tem-
porary supplies, for a much larger force than we have, but if
we should find it eligible to turn our attention to the South-
ward, we should in all appearance meet with an insuperable
obstacle in the want of a sufficiency of provision for the voy-
age and for the operations previous to our opening a full com-
munication with the Country. In the course of the present
month, the Army here has had scarcely one third of the estab-
lished rations of meat; and our distress continues without
prospect of relief.
I have the honor to inform Congress that to morrow I set
out to Hartford to have an interview on the 20th with the
Count De Rochambeau and the Chevalier De Ternay. The
command of the army, in my absence, devolves on Major
General Greene.
It is with extreme regret, I announce the death of Brigadier
General Poor the 9th instant, an officer of distinguished merit,
who as a citizen and a Soldier had every claim to the esteem of
his Country.
I have just seen a resolution of Congress of the 25th of Au-
gust declaring the invalidity of all certificates not given by
the Quarter Master General and Commissary General. As our
situation lays us under an absolute necessity of having re-
course to these certificates and as the Quarter Master General
is not with the Army I have been compelled to direct Colonel
52 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
Biddle acting Commissary of Forage to continue giving cer-
tificates as heretofore for Ten Days or till the arrival of Colo-
nel Pickering. I hope Congress will approve this step, founded
on necessity, and will take the necessary measures to authorise
the certificates given by Colonel Biddle till the new Quarter
Master General joins the army. I have the honor etc.
P. S. Since writing the above I am honored with your letter
of the 12th. inclosing Resolutions of the 8th and nth. It is
my duty to inform Congress, that considering the composi-
tion of our present force and our present prospects, I do not
think it expedient to detach to the Southward from this Army.
A little time will explain what we have to expect from abroad;
this, the result of the intended conference and the measures
Congress take to replace the expiring part of this Army will
enable me to judge hereafter how far it will be adviseable and
practicable to send reinforcements to the Southward.71
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters, September 15, 1780.
Gentn: I have received the honor of Your Letters of the 7th
and 9th Inst, and, in consequence of the former, I wrote to
Sir Henry Clinton on the nth. for the permit You request. As
soon as it comes to hand it shall be forwarded to the Board.
It is much to be wished that circumstances would admit
greater supplies being sent for the prisoners, as I am very appre-
hensive they are materially wanted. Unfortunately the late
affair near Camden has added considerably to the number of
the Officers in the hands of the Enemy. Every thing I trust and
am persuaded will be done, in the power of the Board, from
time to time, for the relief and accommodation of the prisoners
71 In the writing of Richard Kidder Meade. The letter was read in Congress on Sep-
tember 18. It is indorsed: "Referred to the comee on his letter of 20 Aug."
1780] EXCHANGE MATTERS 53
in general. From a persuasion that a general permit would not
be granted for sending Cloathing &c. I did not apply for One;
but if the Board will give me previous and timely notice, I will
always endeavour to obtain the necessary passports and I hope
they will be granted without delay. The provision necessary
for the Seamen, is seldom or never included I believe; but only
such Articles as compose the Cargo.
The Letters and papers from General Hamilton have not
been sent to New York and will be put into the hands of Doc-
tor Shields to be delivered to Lt. Coan.
I beg leave to inclose a Certificate respecting Capn. Lt. Van-
dyck, who it seems was heretofore omitted to be included in
the Artillery Returns made in consequence of the Act of the
15th March 1779. I also inclose a Return of Von heer's Officers
and Men, made out agreable to that Act. He says he made one
before, but not having received any of the benefits proposed
by the Resolution, he offers the present One from an appre-
hension that the former might have miscarried. The Capn. has
likewise exhibited a Cloathing Return for his Troop, which
I trouble the Board with as his Cloathing and that of the
Cavalry in general has been furnished by their order. I have
the Honor etc.
P. S. I have heard Lt. Coan is gone into New York. The
Letters from Genl Hamilton will be forwarded by another
conveyance.72
To GEORGE WALTON, EDWARD TELFAIR,
AND WILLI AM FEW73
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 15, 1780.
Gentlemen: I have been honored within a few days with
yours of the 2d. of Augt. inclosing a letter from Governor
72 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
73 Delegates to the Continental Congress from Georgia.
54 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
Burt74 of Antigua to General Provost75 relative to an exchange
of John Burke Esqr. of Antigua for Lieut. Thomas Morris of
the Georgia Artillery. I have transmitted this letter to Sir
Henry Clinton and have informed him, that should he think
proper to accede to the proposed exchange, I will upon his sig-
nifying the same, transmit a full release discharging Mr Burke
from any obligations of parole which he may have entered into
when he was permitted to return to the West Indies. When
I receive Sir Henry Clinton's answer I will communicate it
to you. I have the honor etc.76
To COLONEL TIMOTHY PICKERING
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 15, 1780.
Sir: I was in hopes that circumstances would have admitted
of your joining the Army before this time, but your presence,
or that of some person acting by authority under you, now
becomes indispensably necessary, as by a Resolve of Congress
of the 23d. Augt. which takes effect this day, no Certificates for
any Articles in the Quarter Master Generals department are to
be valid hereafter except signed by the Quarter Master General
himself. This operates instantly upon the supply of Forage, of
which we have no Magazine, and which we are therefore
obliged to collect from day to day upon Certificate. Colo. Bid-
die, who yet continues to act in that department at my request,
has informed me, thro' General Greene, of the embarrassment
in which he finds himself on account of the Resolve above men-
tioned, and I have been obliged, as no other expedient could
be devised, to take upon me the power of directing him to con-
tinue in Office for the space of ten days from this date (unless
74 Gov. William H.Burt.
75Maj. Gen. Augustine Prevost (Provost), of the British Army.
70 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] QUARTERMASTER MATTERS 55
you or some person authorised by you should sooner arrive)
and to give Certificates agreeable to the mode pointed out by
the Resolve. I have also written to Congress, informing them
of the necessity which I have been under of taking this step,
and requesting them to make provision for the payment of
Certificates given in consequence.77
Besides the important reason which I have mentioned there
are others which require your presence as soon as possible.
Genl. Greene continues to perform the duties immediately rel-
ative to the Army, but matters every now and then occur in
which he does not conceive himself at liberty to interfere.
I am etc.78
To COLONEL CLEMENT BIDDLE
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 15, 1780.
Sir: General Greene has transmitted to me a Copy of your
letter to him of this date, setting forth the embarrassment in
which you find yourself by the operation of an Act of Congress
of the 23d. Augt. which takes place this day. As it is impos-
sible, under present circumstances, to suspend the Business of
the Forage department, untill Colo. Pickering, or the Gentle-
man appointed to succeed you, may arrive in Camp, you will
be pleased to proceed in the execution of the Office for the
space of ten days from this date (unless Colo. Pickering or his
Deputy should sooner arrive) giving Certificates agreeable to
the mode pointed out by the act, and keeping an exact account
of those granted during that time, that a return may be made
to the Boards of War and Treasury according to the terms of
the Act. I shall, in the mean time, write to Colo. Pickering,
"See Journals of the Continental Congress of Aug. 23, 1780, for the report of the
Board of Treasury on the proposals made by Pickering for issuing certificates.
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
56 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
urging the necessity of his or his Deputy's immediate presence
in Camp, and I shall also write to Congress, informing them
of the reasons which induced me to take the above step, and
requesting them to make provision for the payment of the
Certificates which may be given in consequence by you or by
Persons acting under your orders. I am etc.79
^CONFERENCE WITH ROCHAMBEAU80
C. H.81
[September 15(F) 1780]
We have between 12 and 13000 Continentals in the Field,
and have had more than 6000 Ma.
Had the Second division of French force arrived in time, or
had the whole come in the 1st. instance, the resources of the
Country would have been poured in upon us.
Paint our distresses and wants, and the necessity of a Loan,
distinguish between continued exertions, and one grand and
vigorous effort.
Three operations, viz: New York, Chas. Town, and Can-
ada. The two first depends upon a Naval superiority. The lat-
ter upon Magazines at Albany and Co'os, and all of them upon
a better supply of Provision's than we have hitherto met with.
Engage at all Events the Count de Rochambeau to come to
the Continental Army with his Troops, the Fleet may be sent
to Boston, or quaere may it not be Wintered at Phila. with safety.
Many advantages may attend this junction, such as prevent-
ing the Enemys detaching from New York, improving any
T8The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
^This memorandum of matters to be broached at the conference at Hartford was
prepared presumably before Washington set out to meet the French commanders.
The date is tentative, and the original manuscript is filed in the Washington Papers
at the end of September, 1780.
"Conference at Hartford.
1780] MADEIRA WINE 57
faupas they may make, by following it up with a blow, or it
may enable us to detach ourselves.
C de R82
Twelve thousand French Troops includeing those now at
Rhode Island; may be required for the next Campaign in
America, or such a number as will insure 10,000 efficient men.
If a Southern Expedition is not undertaken this winter they
should be ordered to Rhode Isld. (if the prest. French force re-
mains there), or to Philadelphia if the French and Americans
should unite this Winter, they ought to arrive by the 1st of
May.83
If an Expedition is undertaken against Chas. Town they
ought to touch there in there way to this part of the Continent.
A Naval superiority should be had at all events, because on
this every thing does, in a manner depend.
To THOMAS MUMFORD84
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 15, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, your obliging letter of the 8th. inclosing an
order upon Mr. Chenward of Harford for the delivery of a
pipe of Madeira Wine for my use. The polite manner in
which it is tendered adds not a little to the value of the pres-
ent. Altho' I have not the pleasure of an acquaintance with
you, I am no stranger to your character, which I have often
heard represented in the most favorable light, I shall be happy
in an opportunity of returning you my thanks personally and
am with great Respect etc.85
82Comte de Rochambeau.
83May 1, 1781.
84 Of Groton, Conn.
85 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
58 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Head Quarters, New Bridge, Bergen County,
September 16, 1780.
Sir: Tomorrow I set out for Hartford, on an interview with
the French General and Admiral. In my absence the com-
mand of the army devolves upon you. I have so intire confi-
dence in your prudence and abilities that I leave the conduct
of it to your discretion, with only one observation, that with
our present prospects it is not our business to seek an action
or accept it, but upon advantageous terms.
You will attend to the post at Dobbes ferry, and take such
precautions for its security as you judge necessary. As Lt Col
Gouvion accompanies me, a Continental Officer should be ap-
pointed to The Command. There is now a Lt Col of Militia
there.
Should you receive authentic advice of the arrival of a supe-
rior French fleet on the Coast you will immediately put the
army under marching orders and take measures for collecting
all the Boats on the North River together with plank &c. to
form a Bridge across Haerlem River. You will also immediately
write to the states of Maryland, Delaware, Pensylvania, Jersey
and New York informing them of the advice you have re-
ceived, and urging them to redouble their exertions for collect-
ing provisions, forage &c. to raise levies for their Continental
batalions, and also to put their nearest Militia under marching
orders.
You will acquaint me with every occurrence of importance
that comes to your knowledge [by the rout which Colo. Tilgh-
man will point out] and any thing that it may be interesting
for Congress immediately to know, You will transmit to them.
P. S. Since writing the foregoing instructions I have received
advices that Admiral Rodney is at the Hook and that the
1780] SALT BEEF 59
Enemy are making an embarkation for Rhode Island; If this
should be true on the sailing of the embarkation, you will im-
mediately make all the preparations we did on a like occasion
for attacking New York and give me instant intelligence of
the event. If the detachment should be such as to enable you
to pass the River with safety at Dobbes ferry, it will save you a
march; if not, you will cross the North River at King's ferry.86
To COLONEL WILLIAM MALCOM
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 16, 1780.
Sir: I have received your favor of the 8th. inst. The difficul-
ties and distresses, which we every day experience on the score
of provisions evince that we can place no certain dependance
on the modes pointed out for obtaining regular supplies, and
that it will be therefore expedient for you to procure as much
as you consistently can by virtue of the powers with which you
are vested by His Excellency Governor Clinton.
The number of Men for which you propose to make Winter
establishments at Fort Schuyler, is I think about the number
which will compose the Garrison. From the favorable ac-
counts lately received from Colo. Hay, I hope there will be no
difficulty in procuring a supply of Flour as soon as the new
Wheat is threshed out and ground, and I would recommend
the formation of a very sufficient Magazine of that article as
early as possible. We have been under the necessity of expend-
ing what salt meat was laid up at West point; but Govr. Trum-
bull, some little time ago, promised to furnish between four
and five hundred Barrels of prize Beef, and of that parcel I pro-
pose to assign one hundred at least for Fort Schuyler, and as
soon as the season for salting comes in, the Commy. Genl. shall
86 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton. The words in brackets are in
the writing of Washington.
60 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
have directions to furnish a further quantity. I should wish
the Garrison to be always supplied with six Months Flour and
salt provision if possible. It may be difficult under present cir-
cumstances to procure the full quantity of salt meat, but a
supply equal to forty or fifty days consumption at least should
be provided and kept in reserve to secure the place against a
sudden investiture. I am etc.87
To MAJOR WILLIAM CRANE88
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 16, 1780.
Sir: Major General Lincoln is to have a conference with
Major Genl. Phillips at Elizabeth Town on Tuesday the 19th:
instant. The Vessel in which Genl. Phillips comes to Elizabeth
town is to remain there during the conference and to be con-
sidered as a Flag. You are to observe that there is no stipulation
for a cessation of hostilities during this conference, you are
therefore to keep as much upon your guard as at any other
time. Iam&c.89
To CAPTAINS JOHN CARLISLE,90 MICHAEL GIL-
BERT,91 JOHN HUGHES,92 AND LIEU-
TENANT JOSEPH LEWIS93
Head Quarters, September 16, 1780.
Gentn: I have received your Letter of this date and am
sorry to find You have not obtained from your State the bene-
87 In the writing of Tench Tilghman. This letter is in the Papers of the Continental
Congress, no. 152, 11, fol. 181.
88 Of Spencer's Additional Continental regiment. He was then in command at
Elizabethtown, N. J.
89 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
90 Of the Second Canadian Regiment. He retired in July, 1783.
91 Of the Second Canadian Regiment. He resigned in April, 1781.
92Of the Second Canadian Regiment. He resigned in November, 1781.
93 Of the Second Canadian Regiment. He resigned in November, 1780.
1780]
RECOMMENDATION OF A SPY 61
fits which are proposed and recommended by the Resolution
to which You refer. I am sensible of the difficulties attending
your situation on this account, and therefore consent to one
of you going to His Excellency Governor Lee, as You request.
You will inform Colonel Hazen of it. Unfortunately there is
no Money in the Military Chest or Your pay master or the
Officer acting as such, might obtain a Warrant on account of
your pay.
I inclose a line addressed to Major General Greene, who
will furnish one of you with a Horse, Saddle and Bridle on
your application, if circumstances will admit, for the Journey,
which You will return again when the Officer arrives in Camp.
I am etc.94
To MAJOR BENJAMIN TALLMADGE
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 16, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed, yours of the 13th: as I have your sev-
eral late favors with their inclosures.
It is impossible for me, circumstanced as matters are, to give
a positive answer to C juniors request; as I cannot, with-
out knowing his views, tell what are his expectations. Of this,
both you and he may rest assured, that should he continue
servicable and faithful, and should the issue of our Affairs
prove as favorable as we hope, I shall be ready to recommend
him to the public, if public employ shall be his aim, and if
not that I shall think myself bound to represent his conduct
in the light it deserves and procure him a compensation of
another kind.
I shall take the first good opportunity of sending you a fur-
ther sum of Money for contingencies. I am etc.95
94 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
85 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
62 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM PHILLIPS
Head Quarters, September 16, 1780.
Sir: I last night received Your Letter of the nth. and am
happy to find that You are recovered from your indisposition.
In my Letter of the 28th August to which You refer, I did
not determine whether the paroles You described could or
could not take place; but only that I had no power to grant
them Myself. I sincerely wish however, as I did then, that the
Officers could be exchanged and I hope it will be the case.
This would remove every difficulty and give relief to Many
Individuals on both sides.
You will be at perfect liberty to bring with You at the pro-
posed interview between Yourself and Major General Lincoln
Any part of your family You think proper. The Officer at Eliza-
beth Town will be informed of your meeting and that the Flag
Vessel is to be under the sanction of a truce while coming and
returning and during the interview. I have the Honor etc.96
IMPRESS WARRANT
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 16, 1780.
The Representation which you have made to me of the im-
possibility of providing for the horses of the army in the modes
pointed out by Law compells me to Authorize you and you
are hereby Authorized by yourself, Deputy Assistants or For-
age Masters to impress Forage and pasture necessary for the
horses of the Army when the same cannot otherwise be pro-
vided, provided that the same be taken within fifteen miles
of an Encampment of the Army and that you take proper
80 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
1780] APPOINTMENTS 63
measures to prevent abuse or waste and to have justice done to
the Inhabitants.
This Warrant to continue in force for Ten days or until
Colo. Pickering or his Deputy shall arrive in Camp.97
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Saturday, September 16, 1780.
Parole Northumberland. Countersigns Pan, Peep.
Watchword Come here.
Brigadier General Irvine
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant
Sherman
Lieutenant Colonel Murray
Major Knapp
Brigade Major Rosekrans
For Detachment Major Ball to relieve Major Reid.
Ensign Samuel Tallmage98 is appointed Adjutant to the 4th.
New York regiment vice Lieutenant Ellsworth" promoted
from the ninth day of July last.
Major James Moore1 is appointed Brigade Major and In-
spector to the 1st. Pennsylvania brigade from the 21st. of July
last.
For the day Tomorrow-
97 The original, in the National Museum, Independence Hall, Philadelphia, is a
D. S. in the writing of Clement Biddle.
98 Of the Fourth New York Regiment. He was transferred to the Second New York
Regiment in January, 1781; appointed lieutenant in October, 1781; served to June,
1782.
"Lieut. Peter Elsworth (Ellsworth), of the Fourth New York Regiment. He was
made captain-lieutenant in July, 1780, and served subsequently as captain of New
York levies.
*Of the First Pennsylvania Regiment. He was transferred to the Second Pennsyl-
vania Regiment in January, 1783, and served to November, 1783.
64 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
A return by brigades of Armourers who may remain un-
employed to be made to the Adjutant General tomorrow at
Orderly time.
Spencer's regiment is to march tomorrow morning and join
Livingston's at Stoney Point agreeable to an order of the first
of last Month.
The German Battalion is to join the Jersey brigade 'till
further orders.
All the brigade quarter masters with the main army who
have not received orders of payment for their extra wages or
any other charges they may have against the Quarter master
General's department previous to the first of August last are
requested to render their accounts for settlement by the 19th.
Instant at farthest.
To CHEVALIER DE TERNAY
Head Quarters, Bergen County, September 16, 1780,
10 oClock A. M.
Sir: I have this moment reed, a letter of which the inclosed
is a Copy.2 It is possible that this may be the Fleet of Admiral
Arbuthnot, and that the person who discovered them may have
mistaken his larger Frigates for ships of the line; but of this
you will be able to form a judgment by the time this letter
reaches you. I will communicate any further intelligence which
I may receive. I thought the present of too much importance
to delay. I have the honor etc.3
2General Forman's letter to Washington, dated Sept. 14, 1780. (See note to Wash-
ington's letter to the President of Congress, Sept. 15, 1780, ante.)
3 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
On September 16 Washington sent the following note (in the writing of an aide)
to Brig. Gen. William Irvine: "Genl. Washington presents his compliments to Genl.
Irvine, is sorry that a prior engagement will prevent him the pleasure of Dining with
him on Monday." The original of this note was in the Historical Society of Pennsyl-
vania in 1892.
For the day Tomorrow
1780] A COLONEL'S BEHAVIOR 65
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Sunday, September 17, 1780.
Parole Cumberland. Countersigns A., Y.
Watchword Listen.
Brigadier General Parsons
Colonel Bay ley4
Lieutenant Colonel Fernald
Major Hamilton5
Brigade Major Smith8
For Detachment Lieutenant Colonel Cobb.7
At the General Court martial whereof Colonel Wyllys is
President, Colonel Hazen was tried on the following Charges
vizt. "Disobedience of orders and unmilitary conduct on the
march from Tapan to the Liberty pole in halting the brigade
under his Command without any orders therefore from the
General commanding the division and thereby occasioning a
vacancy of near half a mile in the Centre of the Left Column:
And for unofficer and ungentlemanlike behavior in falsely as-
serting he had received such orders from General Stark."
The Court are of opinion that on the March from Tapan to
the Liberty pole Colonel Hazen halted the Brigade under his
Command and occasioned a Vacancy in the Centre of the Left
Column; but as it appears to them that he had orders from the
General commanding the division, to halt, they do therefore
honorably acquit him of disobedience of orders : and unmilitary
conduct in the instance contained in this Charge; The Court
4 Col. John Bailey (Bayley), of the Second Massachusetts Regiment. He resigned in
October, 1780.
°Maj. James Hamilton, of the Second Pennsylvania Regiment. He retired in Janu-
ary, 1783.
"Maj. David Smith.
'Lieut. Col. David Cobb.
66 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
do also honorably acquit Colonel Hazen of unofficer and un-
gentlemanlike behavior in asserting that "he had orders from
General Stark to halt" which this Charge says he had not.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence. But as it
appears to have been a matter of question, whether a brigadier
or officer commanding a brigade in a line of march has a dis-
cretionary power to order halts ? the General thinks it neces-
sary to declare that it is highly improper for him so to do but
in cases of extreme necessity when the halt or the cause of it
should be immediately reported to the officer commanding the
division who is at the same moment to inform the General or
commanding officer of the Column that he may take measures
accordingly to prevent a seperation of the column and the bad
consequences which may result therefrom. It is nevertheless
the duty of a brigadier or officer commanding a brigade if he
finds his men fatigued : suffering for want of water or in need
of a halt from any other good reason, to make immediate rep-
resentation thereof to the officer under whose command he
immediately is, that the knowledge of it may be communi-
cated to the officer commanding the column.
Colonel Hazen is released from his arrest.
The General Court martial whereof Colonel Wyllys is presi-
dent is dissolved.
MAJOR GENERAL GREENE'S ORDERS
His Excellency the Commander in Chief going to be absent
from the Army a few days,8 the knowledge of which possibly
8The Commander in Chief set out for Hartford, Conn., this day (September 17).
He breakfasted at Samuel Haight's, "Plenbrook," September 18; supped and lodged
at Caleb Baldwin, jr's., September 19. There is also in the Washington Papers, an
account of Joseph Hopkins, September 19, for "14 meals Victuals for Genl. Washing-
ton and his attendants at 13 Dollars pr meal ,£54: 12: o." Also at Waterbury, Conn.,
September 19, Samuel Frost's account is for " 4 Horse Shoes set for Genl. Washingtons
Family /16: o: o." Also in the Washington Papers is the general expenses account
of this journey to Hartford and return, in which "Andrew Bostwick was paid 745
1780] EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS 67
may reach the enemy and encourage them to make some move-
ment in consequence thereof; The General desires the officers
of all ranks to be in perfect readiness to meet them on the short-
est notice and recommends to the outguards to be very Vigilant
and attentive and the Patrols active and watchful.
To SIR HENRY CLINTON
Head Quarters, September 17, 1780.
Sir: I have the honor to inclose you a Letter from Governor
Burt, of Antigua to General Provost, relative to the exchange
of John Burke, Esq, of that Island, for Lieut Morris of the
Georgia Artillery. Should the proposed exchange be agree-
able to Your Excellency, I will, on your communicating the
same, transmit a release for Mr Burke, discharging him from
any obligation of parole he may have entered into after he was
captured, and previous to his returning to the West Indies.
I have the Honor etc.9
To ABRAHAM SKINNER
Head Quarters, September 17, 1780.
Sir: It having been agreed that an interview should take
place at Elizabeth Town, between Major Generals Phillips and
Lincoln on the subject of their exchange, I was induced from
the earnest desire I had of relieving the prisoners on both
sides as far as circumstances would admit, and in compliance
dollars, and Thomas Lewis 1651 dollars, on September 19, and 1429 dollars on Sep-
tember 23. Andrew Morehouse was paid 808 dollars, September 24; Obadiah Cooper
186 dollars, September 25." During the exciting days of Arnold's treason, John Ter
Bush was paid $250 and on September 26 James Cooper $124. On September 29 Ben-
jamin Elliot was paid "144 dollars and John Ter Bush 195." The last items on the
account, presumably under the date of September 29, are $6 for lodging at Fishkill and
$7 " for mending the Genls mans Boots."
9 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrisons.
68 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
with the directions of Congress, to inform His Excellency Sir
Henry Clinton on the 26th. Ulto. that "I should direct our
Commissary of prisoners to attend at Elizabeth Town at the
same time, who would be instructed to execute with the Com-
missary on his part, if he should think proper to send him, an
exchange of Officers, prisoners of War, on the footing of equal
rank or composition, as far as the number in our hands would
admit, and to include also the whole of the Officers of Conven-
tion on parole at New York or in Europe." The interview be-
tween the Two Generals is to be on the 19th Instant, when Sir
Henry Clinton has informed me in answer to my Letter "His
Commissary should attend."
You will therefore proceed to Elizabeth Town on the 19th
Instant and meet the Commissary on the part of Sir Henry
Clinton or Other Officer deputed by him, with whom you will
make or endeavour to make, under the restrictions and excep-
tions heretofore mentioned, an Exchange of All the Enemy's
Officers who are prisoners of War in our hands, and also of
All the Officers of Convention on parole in New Yor\ or in
Europe, for an equal number of Ours of like rank, according
to the order of their captivity ; and where the principle of equal
rank will not apply, You will exchange them on the footing of
composition, confining the composition to Officers only; and
according to the value or tariff treated of and judged reason-
able by the Commissioners at the last meeting at Amboy.
In the exchanges on the principle of composition, Our Offi-
cers next in rank to those belonging to the Enemy's Army who
cannot be exchanged on the principle of equality, are to be
included and in the order of their captivity.
The above are the general rules by which You are to conduct
Yourself in the execution of the proposed business and which
are to operate only in general with respect to Our Officers,
1780] EXCHANGES 69
prisoners in this quarter and for their benefit, whose long cap-
tivity gives them a claim to the public's first attention. There is
however, besides the exchange which it is hoped Major Genl.
Lincoln will effect of himself either for Major General Phillips
or Major Genl Riedesel and which falls within the principle of
equality; the case of Brigadr Genl du Portail, whose release
being particularly directed by Congress must be attempted and
effected either upon one or other of the foregoing principles;
though it would be best if it could be obtained on that of com-
position. The case of Lt Colo Ramsay and Conolly is also
to be particularly attended to for the reasons formerly given
You; and likewise Colo Webb's, if the several Officers taken in
the Eagle packet are comprehended in your transactions and
which upon every principle of justice ought to be the case. If
there are any Other instances of Exchanges out of the general
and customary line, about which you have received any Orders
from Congress or the Board of War, You must of course, regard
these and comply with their directions, or at least endeavour
to carry them into execution.
You are perfectly acquainted with all the circumstances re-
specting Violators of parole and know who have been adjudged
such and who have not, and the order and manner in which
they are to be accounted; and also the Characters for whom we
do not conceive ourselves accountable. It is therefore unneces-
sary for me to observe further with respect to these than that
the Instructions You have had repeatedly concerning them are
to govern You on the present occasion.
We have in Canada a Lieut Colonel Stacey,10 a prisoner, be-
longing to the Massachusetts line, who was taken at Cherry
valley the nth of November 1778. He is to be added to Your
10Lieut. Col. William Stacey, of the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment. He did not
rejoin the Army.
70 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
List of Lt Colonels and exchanged whenever it comes to his
turn having regard to the time of his captivity. You will also
recollect the Captains who are Hostages and endeavour at
their release.
An exchange of All the Officers, prisoners of War, in our
hands, and also of All the Convention Officers on parole in
New Yor\ or Europe is what is earnestly wished; but, if You
find You cannot make it so general as to comprehend the
whole; make it as extensive as You can.
You will report Your proceedings to me and the Exchanges
You may make; specifying the names and rank of the Officers
on both sides.
I have mentioned Your Instructions to Major General Lin-
coln, who will facilitate the execution of the Objects to which
they extend, as far as he can, by endeavouring to get General
Phillips to countenance the business either wholly or partially,
if it should be necessary. I am etc.
P. S. I find the following Officers belonging to the Massa-
chusetts line are also prisoners in Canada
Lts Jonathan Maynard11 taken at Kobuskill 30th May 1778.
Aaron Holden12 Do. Cherry Valley 11 Nov. 1778.
Ensign Garritt13 Do. Do. nth. Nov. 1778.
Fs. Z. Debeer,14 Surgeon's mate Do. nth Nov. 1778.
who You are to add to your list and exchange in their turn.15
"Of the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment. He was taken prisoner at Cobleskill
(Coverskill, Kobuskill), N. Y., in May-June, 1778; exchanged in December, 1780;
was made captain-lieutenant in September, 1780; captain in January, 1781; retired in
January, 1783.
12 Of the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment. He was still a prisoner when retired in
January, 1781.
"Ensign Andrew Garrett (Garritt), of the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment. He was
appointed a lieutenant in October, 1781; transferred to the Sixth Massachusetts Regi-
ment in January, 1783; released or exchanged in March, 1783; retired in June, 1783.
"Surgeon's Mate Francis Suza de Beer, of the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment. He
was a prisoner to the close of the war.
"The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
For the day Tomorrow <
1780] A COURT OF INQUIRY 71
GENERAL ORDERS16
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Monday, September 18, 1780.
Parole Washington. Countersigns War, Watch.
Watchword Wisdom.
Brigadier General Clinton
Colonel Wyllys
Lieutenant Colonel Conway
Major Edwards
Brigade Major Woodbridge
The General desires the old officers of the day to favor him
with their Company at dinner during the absence of the Com-
mander in Chief.
At a Court of Enquiry called by desire of Colonel Angell, to
enquire into a report relative to his being absent from his regi-
ment in the action at Springfield the 23d of June last Colonel
Nixon President.
The Court having heard and duly considered the evidence
are unanimously of opinion that Colonel Angell was in the
Action at Springfield of the 23d. of June last with his regi-
ment and in the execution of his duty and behaved like a
brave and good officer.
Major Genl. Green accepts and approves the report.
At a division General court martial the 15th. instant by or-
der of Major General Marquis de la Fayette, Colonel Swift,
President, Lieutenant William Mills17 of Colonel Gimatt's
10 The Commander in Chief left the Hopper House Sunday, September 17, for Hart-
ford. On his return he reached the Robinson House (N. Y.), on September 25. He
reassumed command of the Army at Tappan on September 28. To keep the record of
the General Orders complete, they are printed during Washington's short absence,
though they are, in reality, the General Orders of Major General Greene.
17 Capt.-Lieut. William Mills, of the Fourteenth Massachusetts Regiment. He was
transferred to the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1781; was made cap-
tain in May, 1781; transferred to the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment in June, 1783;
served to November, 1783.
72 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
regiment of Light Infantry was tried for "Disobedience of
Orders" and unanimously acquitted.
At the same Court, Ensign Jonathan T. Rawson18 of the
same regiment was tried upon the same charge and unani-
mously acquitted.
Major General Greene approves the acquittals and orders
Lieutenant Mills and Ensign Rawson released from arrest.
AFTER ORDERS, 5 O'CLOCK
The Army to march at the shortest Notice. Everything to
be in perfect readiness for a movement.
One hundred fatigue men to parade tomorrow morng. at
seven o'clock on the Grand Parade, with their Arms and two
days provisions if to be had.
Meigs's regiment to march very early tomorrow morning.
The commanding officer will call this Evening at General
Greene's Quarters for orders.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Steenrapia,
Tuesday, September 19, 1780.
Parole Falmouth. Countersigns Fame, H.
Watchword Here here.
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel Greaton
For the day Tomorrow I Lieutenant Colonel Peters
Major T L Moore
Brigade Major Oliver.19
1S Ensign Jonathan T. Rawson (Jeduthan(?) Rawson), of the Sixth Massachusetts
Regiment. He was transferred to the First Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1781,
and resigned in February, 1781.
19Maj. Robert Oliver, of the Third Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to
the Second Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and served to November, 1783.
1780] MARCH OF THE ARMY 73
At seven o'clock tomorrow morning the General will beat
the Assemble at nine, and the Army will march at ten.
The baggage will precede the Army and begin to file off pre-
cisely at eight, agreeable to the order of march to be given for
the purpose. The baggage that is not ready to fall in agreeable
to the order will be thrown out of the line and left in the rear
of the troops; it is expected therefore the officers will be punc-
tual in having the baggage ready to move at the time appointed.
The General desires the march may be conducted agreeable
to the Regulations and with the greatest regularity; for this
purpose every officer is requested to attend to his particular
command.
Before the March commences the soldiers are to fill their
Canteens with Water and the roll is to be called about one
quarter of an hour before the Line of March is taken up.
The officers who lead the columns will take care to regulate
the Motions of the Troops so as not to injure them by too rapid
a march and will order proper halts at about every five Miles
distance, and if possible at such places as to give the men an
opportunity to replenish their Canteens with Water.
The invalids are to precede the Baggage and the officer com-
manding the baggage escort will take care and provide for
those that shall fail on the March.
He is to allow no women to ride in the waggons unless their
peculiar circumstances require it.
The sick of the light infantry and of the right wing who are
unable to march are to be collected near General Pattersons
brigade in the second line. Those of the left wing and Park
of Artillery at the road leading to Paramus near Lord Stirling's
Quarters. The whole to be collected at three o'clock this
afternoon.
74 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
Major Talbot is appointed Member of the General Court
martial whereof Colonel H. Jackson is President vice Major
Leavensworth, ordered on Command.
Brigadier General Glover with the new Field officers of the
day will Command the Vanguard which is to be formed in
the road on the Left of the New Hampshire brigade at the
beating of the General. The Camp colour men are to be pa-
raded at the same time and place.
Brigadier General Clinton with the old field officers of the
day will command the rear Guard which is to be formed on
the Grand Parade at ten o'clock.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Wednesday, September 20, 1780.
Parole Haddington. Countersigns Holland, Hudson.
Watchword Order.
Brigadier General Patterson
Colonel Hazen
Lieutenant Colonel Hull
Major Ballard
Brigade Major Ashley
The General Court martial whereof Colonel Jackson is Pres-
ident to sit tomorrow morning nine o'clock at the Church. Or-
derlies from the Left wing.
The Guards and Picquets to parade near the Church, three
quarters past five o'clock this afternoon.
One Hundred fatigue men to Parade tomorrow morning on
the Grand parade with their Arms and two days Provisions.
For the Day Tomorrow <
1780]
FENCE BURNING 75
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Thursday, September 21, 1780.
Parole Lancaster. Countersigns P., M.
Watchword Take care.
Brigadier General Wayne
Colonel Nixon
For the Day Tomorrow < Lieutenant Colonel Cochran
Major Alexander
Brigade Major Darby
For detachment Major Cogswell.
The burning of fences and breaking up inclosures is so dis-
tressing to the inhabitants as well as disgraceful to an Army
that has the least pretension to discipline and order that the
General earnestly exhorts the officers of all ranks, but more
particularly the commanding officers of regiments to take all
possible care to prevent it and for this purpose the Camp and
quarter guards are to confine every person detected in either
removing or burning fencing stuff; and as it frequently hap-
pens that there are numbers of soldiers standing round a fire
made of fencing though none will acknowledge or inform
who made it such therefore as are standing by it shall be con-
sidered as the Authors unless they point out the Persons and
shall be confined and punished accordingly.
As it is much better to prevent crimes than punish them, the
General desires the commanding officers of regiments to fix
upon proper places for Kitchens that the cooking of the regi-
ments may be done together as much as possible and that the
police officers may visit them during the cooking hours as well
76 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
to see that the cooking is properly performed as that the fires
are not made with fencing stuff.
At the General Court martial whereof Colonel Jackson is
president, the 16th. Instant, Major Murnan of the corps of
Engineers was tried for " Unofficer and ungentlemanlike be-
havior in taking possession of the quarters of the Reverend
David Jones 20 in his Absence and for similar behavior to him
in his quarters."
The Court are of opinion that Major Murnan having a right
to take possession of the quarters which Mr. Jones calls his is
not Guilty of unofficer and ungentlemanlike conduct in taking
possession of them. The Court do acquit Major Murnan of the
last part of the charge against him.
Major General Greene confirms the opinion of the court.
Major Murnan is released from Arrest.
CONFERENCE AT HARTFORD
ANSWERS TO QUERIES OF COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU AND THE
CHEVALIER DE TERNAY21
[Hartford, September 22, 1780.]
1st. That there can be no decisive enterprise against the
maritime establishments of the English in this country, with-
out a constant naval superiority.
2d. That of all the enterprises which may be undertaken,
the most important and decisive is the reduction of New
York, which is the centre and focus of all the British forces.
i0 Chaplain of a Pennsylvania brigade. He was transferred to the Third Pennsyl-
vania Regiment and served to the close of the war.
21 A record of the "Sundry matters proposed ... to Genl. Washington for Consid-
eration," in French and in the writing of Lafayette, is in the Washington Papers. It is
in two columns, Rochambeau's and Ternay's queries on the left and Washington's
answers on the right.- The above text is Alexander Hamilton's translation of Wash-
ington's answers. The queries are sufficiently indicated by the answers.
1780] MILITARY SITUATION 77
3. That under whatever point of view we consider the estab-
lishment, which the English have made since five years at
New York and with a garrison of fifteen thousand men, that
place requires extensive means to make the seige of it. That
with a decided maritime superiority to block sandy Hook, and
fight at sea all the succours which may come from without dur-
ing the course of the expedition, there must be also a land
army of thirty thousand men, which may form two attacks on
the works on New York and Long Island; and that we must
calculate on an army of fifteen thousand men being able to
make sorties, with Six or 8 thousand men; that therefore each
attack must be defended and garnished in proportion. That if
we should be reduced to have no more than 24000 men, then we
must content ourselves with a single attack, which however
renders the operation less expeditious, more uncertain.
4 That every enterprise whether to the Southward or North-
ward, exacts the same superiority by land an sea; since the
troops which at present occupy the different posts may be rein-
forced by the fleet and army at New York, in proportion to the
detachments which might be sent to attack them.
5 That we ought therefore to prefer the attack of New York
to every other so soon as the King by his succours shall have
enabled his allies to undertake it.
6 That in the state of the French fleet and army hitherto since
their arrival, they have been obliged to remain on the strictest
defensive and consider it as a happiness to have suffered no
check.
7 That there results from all these considerations an indis-
pensable necessity to reinforce the fleet and army here with
ships, troops, and money.
8 That the number of ships for obtaining the naval supe-
riority cannot possibly be fixed, since it must depend on the
78 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
secrecy and the point from which they set out ; but that the only
means of having that superiority, seeing that the English can
detach from Europe in proportion to the French, is to detach
from the Islands in the month of April a fleet to reinforce the
one here, and give it a superiority. The Court of France can
alone determine the number of vessels to be detached from
Europe and from the Islands, as it cannot be known in Amer-
ica what number of vessels the enemy will be able to send here.
9 That in the circumstances in which General Washington
finds himself, not having yet been able to combine with Con-
gress the force of his army for the commencement of the next
campaign and not having yet received from Congress an an-
swer concerning the means they propose to take to replace that
part of his army whose times of service expire in January; he
should fear to hazard a specification of the number of which
the Congress will compose his army for the next spring; but
that he thinks it very necessary, that His Christian Majesty be
pleased to complete his army here to fifteen thousand, and that
he hopes the states, by a new effort will be able to supply the rest.
10 That independent of the funds destined for the army of
fifteen thousand men, which will be insufficient, if they are
combined on the same scale by which the speculation for five
thousand men was regulated, without having foreseen the ex-
traordinary expense attending a war in this country, where
each individual neither gives his house nor his field to incamp
in without being paid for it in hand; it is indispensable to add
extra funds to supply the contingencies which cannot be fore-
seen in order not to be stopped in the midst of an expedition
once commenced.22
22 The translation, in the writing of Alexander Hamilton, was indorsed by Washing-
ton as quoted in footnote 24, p. 81. The original, in French, as previously stated, is
signed by Washington, Rochambeau, and Ternay.
1780] PLAN OF CAMPAIGN 79
CONFERENCE AT HARTFORD
SUMMARY OF A CONVERSATION BETWEEN HIS EXCELLENCY GENERAL
WASHINGTON, THE COUNT DE ROCHAMBEAU, AND THE CHEVALIER
DE TERNAY; EXCLUSIVE OF THE CONTENTS OF THE PAPER DATED
AT HARTFORD THE 22d SEPTR. 1780 SIGNED BY THE PARTIES.23
Hartford, September 22, 1780.
It was agreed, that if the Count De Guichen should arrive by
the beginning of October and a naval engagement should im-
mediately take place in which by a fortunate issue, the french
fleet should gain possession of the Port of New York; in that
case, New York should become the object of the combined
operations.
That if the Count De Guichen should arrive after that pe-
riod, or arriving should not be able to gain possession of the
port of New York, or if by a reinforcement from Europe, or
by any other method a naval superiority should be acquired
in these seas in the remainder of the fall, or early in the Win-
ter, in this case an expedition should be made against the enemy
in the Southern states.
That for this purpose the fleet should remain on the coast
during the expedition, to protect the supplies for the combined
forces and prevent succours going to the enemy.
That with the present force of the enemy to the Southward,
an American corps should be added to the French corps, which
with the regular troops to the Southward should compose an
army of ten, or if practicable of twelve thousand men. But that
if the enemy should reinforce their Southern army, we should
endeavour to encrease our force, so as to have double their
number in the operation.
23 So headed by Hamilton.
80 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
General Washington proposed to the French General and
Admiral, if an opportunity should offer to do it with safety,
to separate the land from the sea forces; to march the former to
the Vicinity of the American army and to send the latter round
to Boston. The reasons assigned for this disposition were, that
by a junction of the allied armies, the enemy would be held in
respect at New York and prevented from detaching to prose-
cute their success in the Southern states, that if they should
make any detachment, we might have it in our power to take
advantage of their weakness, or to detach, in proportion to the
support of the part attacked. It was observed by the way that
this junction would be the more desirable, as the term of serv-
ice for which a large part of the American army was engaged
would expire in December, so that if the men who left us, were
not replaced by the same period, there would be a crisis in
which we should be weaker than were to be wished.
The French General and Admiral declined the separation
proposed observing that they had pointed instructions from
their Court for the Fleet and army to support each other; also
for keeping their troops as much as possible on Islands, as
well for the better preservation of discipline, as for avoiding all
differences with the inhabitants which might arise from too
intimate a commerce of manners, so unlike each other as those
of the French soldiers and the American citizens.
General Washington remarked, that the instructions of the
Court must of course decide the point; but that he hoped the in-
conveniences apprehended from an intercourse with the inhab-
itants would not be found on experience, and thought they
could not happen more from a commerce with the people on
the Continent than with those on an Island, whose genius,
tempers and habits were the same.
1780]
CANADIAN EXPEDITION
81
Intimations were given by General Washington in the course
of the conference respecting a Winter expedition into Canada.
The French General declined concerting any thing on this
subject 'till a consultation had been had with the Minister of
France, as he imagined there might be some political objec-
tions to the measure.24
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown, September 22, 1780.
Parole Washington. Countersigns Greene, Steuben.
Watchword Luzerne.
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Chambers
Lieutenant Colonel Barber
Major Davis
Brigade Major Pettingel
For the day Tomorrow
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Saturday, September 23, 1780.
Parole Louis. Countersigns Guichen, Ternay.
Watchword France.
Brigadier General Stark
Colonel Shreve
Lieutenant Colonel Mellen
Major Tudor25
Brigade Major Rice26
For the day Tomorrow1
MIn the writing of Alexander Hamilton. Indorsed by Tilghman: "Substance of
Conference . . ."; and by Washington: "Result of a Conference. . . ."
^Maj. George Tudor, of the Fifth Pennsylvania Regiment. He retired in January,
1781.
2°Maj. Nathan Rice. He was aide to Lincoln.
82 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
The General officers, the heads and branches of all the dif-
ferent departments in the Army, the Brigades of Infantry and
Corps of Artillery, Horse and foot not brigaded, and the Artifi-
cers of the Army are desired to make immediate returns of all
Camp Equipage and public property and tools in their pos-
session belonging to the Quarter Master Generals department
particularly of public horses saddles bridles Tents and markees
the whole to be signed by the principals or the Heads of the
branches in the staff departments. The General officers returns
will be signed by themselves.
The names of the individuals having horses, saddles or bri-
dles in the incorporated Corps are to be mentioned on the back
of the returns. Those made by the General Staff or others are
to specify the persons names that have any of the aforesaid
Articles in possession.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Sunday, September 24, 1780.
Parole Indostan. Countersigns Ireland, Iris.
Watchword Independence.
Brigadier General Irvine
Colonel Gansevoort
For the day Tomorrow < Lieutenant Colonel Basset
Major Wiley27
Brigade Major White28
For detachment, Major Wallbridge.
27Maj. John Wiley, of the Fourteenth Massachusetts Regiment. He retired in Janu-
ary, 1781.
^Capt. Moses White, of the Second Canadian Regiment. He was aide to General
Hazen to the close of the war.
1780] MEDICINES 83
AFTER ORDERS
Such of the regimental Surgeons as have not had a fresh sup-
ply of medicine are immediately to send their Chests to Mr.
Cutting,23 Apothecary General to the Army at his Store near
Paramus Church where they will get a supply.
The Inspectors and brigade Quartermasters excepting those
belonging to the Light Infantry are desired to meet the Inspec-
tor General tomorrow morning at nine o'clock at the Adjutant
Generals.
The whole army to be under arms at ten o'clock; the horses
belonging to the Artillery both in the Park and the line to be
in readiness to move the Pieces.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Monday, September 25, 1780.
Parole De Kalb. Countersigns Porterfield, Williams.
Watchword Glory.
Brigadier General Clinton
Colonel M. Jackson
Lieutenant Colonel Littlefield
Major Morril30
.Brigade Major Moore
Twenty five waggoners to be drafted from the Line to Pa-
rade at Guard mounting tomorrow, the second brigade of
Connecticut gives three the others two each.
Major Rosekrans is appointed brigade major of the day Vice
Major Moore ordered on Command.
^ John Brown Cutting.
" Maj. Amos Morrill, of the Second New Hampshire Regiment. He served to the
close of the war.
For the day Tomorrow
84 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
EVENING ORDERS ELEVEN O'CLOCK
The Pennsylvania division to march immediately. The rest
of the Army to be put in perfect readiness to move on the short-
est Notice.
To COLONEL JAMES LIVINGSTON
Head Quarters, Robinson's House in the High-Lands,31
September 25, 1780, 7 OClock P. M.
Sir: I wish to see You here immediately and request that You
will come without the least delay. I am etc.32
To COLONEL JOHN LAMB
Hd. Quarters, Robinson's House in the Highlands,
September 25, 1780, 0 Clock P. M.
Sir: It is my wish to see Col. Jas. Livingston to night, and
I write him by you on the occasion. In his absence, you will
take command of the posts at Stoney and Verplanks Point, till
further orders. I am etc.33 [n.y.h.s.]
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Head Quarters, Robinson's House, September 25, 1780,
l/2 after 7 OClock P. M.
Dr Sir: I request that You will put the Division on the left
in motion as soon as possible, with orders to proceed to Kings
ferry where [or before] they will be met by further Orders.
31 Washington had arrived at Robinson's Houne on his return from Hartford about
noon of September 25.
32 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
33In the writing of Samuel Shaw.
1780] ARNOLD'S TREASON 85
The Division will come on light, leaving their heavy baggage
to follow. You will also hold all the Troops in readiness to
move on the shortest notice. Transactions of a most interesting
nature and such as will astonish You have been just discovered.34
I am etc.35
To COLONEL NATHANIEL WADE36
Head Quarters, Robinson's House, September 25, 1780.
Sir: General Arnold is gone to the Enemy. I have just
now received a line from him, inclosing one to Mrs. Arnold
dated on board the Vulture.37 From this circumstance and Colo.
Lambs being detached on some business, the command of the
Garrison for the present devolves on you. I request you will be
as vigilant as possible, and as the Enemy may have it in con-
templation to attempt some enterprise, even to night, against
these Posts, I wish you to make immediately after receipt of
this, the best disposition you can of your force, so as to have a
proportion of men in each work on the west side of the River.
You will see or hear from me further to-morrow. I am etc.38
34Andre had his interview with Arnold in the early morning of September 22.
Arnold's passport to him is dated September 22. Andre was captured on the morning
of September 23. Colonel Jameson's letter to Arnold, announcing the capture of Andre
and that the papers found on him had been sent to Washington, was dated September
23, and reached Arnold the morning of September 25, before Washington arrived at
Robinson's House.
35 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison. The words in brackets
are in the writing of Washington.
36 Of the Massachusetts Militia.
37Arnold's letter to Washington (September 25). It is in the Washington Papers. In
the light of the note of payment to Mrs. Arnold for services, by Sir Henry Clinton,
in the Clinton Papers in the William L. Clements Library, it is interesting to note
that in this letter from Arnold to Washington he wrote of Mrs. Arnold: "She is as
good, and as Inocent as an Angel, and is Ignorant [canceled in letter sent] Incapeble
of doing Wrong."
38 From the facsimile of the original, in the writing of Richard Kidder Meade, in
Abbatt's Crisis of the Revolution (N. Y., 1899), pp. 44-45, where it is stated to have
been sent to Colonel Wade. The draft, in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison, is
in the Washington Papers and addressed to: "Lt Colo Gray or Officer Commanding
6 Connect Regt."
86 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL EBENEZER GRAY 39
Head Quarters, Robinson's House,
September 25, 1780, 7 OClock.
Sir: From some intelligence I have received I think it neces-
sary that the Regiment at present under your command should
march without a moments delay. You will therefore I request
on receipt of this, put it in motion and with one half You will
occupy the North and Middle redoubts on the Heights above
this place as soon as possible. The other half of the Regiment
will proceed on to the Landing place above Mandeville's near
the old Connecticut encampment, and will cross the river, im-
mediately after their arrival to West point. I am etc.40
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL JOHN JAMESON
Head Quarters, Robinson's House,
September 25, 1780, O'clock P. M.
Sir : I wish every precaution and attention to be paid to pre-
vent Major Andre from making his escape.41 He will without
doubt effect it if possible and in order that he may not have it in
his power, You will send him under the care of such a party
and so many Officers as to preclude him from the least oppor-
tunity of doing it. That he may be less liable to be recaptured
by the Enemy, who will make every effort to gain him, He had
better be conducted to this place by some upper road rather
than by the route thro Crompond. I would not wish Mr Andre
30 Of the Sixth Connecticut Regiment. His promotion dated from Oct. 15, 1778.
40 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
41 Andre's letter to Washington, avowing his identity, is dated Sept. 24, 1780, from
Salem. This letter is in the Washington Papers. It seems to have reached Washington,
along with Colonel Jameson's letter to him transmitting the papers found on Andre,
about 4 o'clock p. m., September 25.
1780] MARCHING ORDERS 87
to be treated with insult, but he does not appear to stand upon
the footing of a common prisoner of War and therefore he is
not intitled to the usual indulgencies they receive, and is to be
most closely and narrowly watched.
General Arnold before I arrived here went off to day to the
Enemy, and is on board the Vulture Sloop of War. I am etc.
Andre must not escape.42
To MAJOR CALEB LOW 43
Head Quarters, Robinsons House, September 25, 1780,
Y2 after 7 O'clock P. M.
Sir: You will be pleased to march early to morrow morning
with all the Militia under your command and proceed to the
Landing opposite West point. You will send an Officer on to
this place by whom you will receive further Orders.
Colo Gouvion, the Bearer of this, will apply to You for an
Officer and a small party of Men. These you will furnish.
I am etc.44
To THE OFFICER COMMANDING THE
WOODCUTTING PARTY
Head Quarters, Robinson's House, September 25, 1780,
K after 7 OClock P.M.
Sir : I request that You will, on receipt of this, march with the
Wood Cutting Detachment under your command to Fish Kill
where You will remain until further orders.45 I am etc.42
42 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
43 Of the Massachusetts Militia, then stationed at Fishkill, N. Y.
44 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison. The original letter sent is
in the possession of the Danvers (Mass.) Historical Society. It differs from the
draft in capitalization and punctuation only.
"The woodcutting detachment was at Staatsburgh.
88 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
To WILLIAM M. BETTS46
Head Quarters, Robinson's House, September 25, 1780,
54 after 7 OClock P. M.
Sir: It is my wish from some matters which have just oc-
curred, to call the Militia employed in cutting Wood to Fish-
kill, where they will receive further orders. The inclosed is to
the Officer, who commands the Detachment, on the subject,
which You will forward by Express. I am etc.47
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Robinson's House, September 26, 1780.
Dr Sir: In the present situation of things I think it necessary
that You should join the Army, and request that You will do it.
You will come to Head Qrs: Yourself; the Route thro Litch-
field will be the most eligible for You on account of security
and You may direct your baggage to halt at Fish Kill for your
further orders. I write to the Count de Rochambeau by this
conveyance and I trust that your coming away now will not be
attended with any material inconvenience to him.
I cannot conclude without informing You of an event which
has happened here which will strike You with astonishment
and indignation. Major General Arnold has gone to the
Enemy. He had had an interview with Major Andre, Adjutant
Genl. of the British Army, and had put into his possession a
state of our Army; of the Garrison at this post; of the number
of Men considered as necessary for the defence of it; a Re-
turn of the Ordnance, and the disposition of the Artillery
Corps in case of an Alarm. By a most providential interposi-
48 Assistant Deputy Quartermaster General, at Fishkill.
47 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
1780] ARNOLD'S ESCAPE 89
tion, Major Andre was taken in returning to New York with
all these papers in General Arnold's hand writing, who hear-
ing of the matter kept it secret, left his Quarters immediately
under pretence of going over to West point on Monday fore-
noon, about an hour before my arrival, then pushed down the
river in the barge, which was not discovered till I had returned
from West point in the Afternoon and when I received the first
information of Mr. Andres captivity Measures were instantly
taken to apprehend him, but before the Officers sent for the
purpose could reach Verplank's point, he had passed it with a
Flag and got on board the Vulture Ship of War, which lay
a few miles below. He knew of my approach and that I was
visiting with the Marquiss, the North and Middle Redoubts,
and from this circumstance was so straitned in point of time
that I believe, he carried with him but very few if any material
papers, tho he has a very precise knowledge of the Affairs of
the post.
The Gentlemen of General Arnold's family,48 I have the
greatest reason to believe, were not privy in the least degree to
the measures he was carrying on, or to his escape. I am etc.49
To COLONEL NATHANIEL WADE
Head Quarters, September 26, 1780.
Sir: Under the present situation of affairs, I think it neces-
sary, that the respective works at West Point and its dependen-
cies be supplied with provisions and water. You will therefore
be pleased to have a proper quantity distributed to each of
them, without any loss of time. I am, etc.50
^Maj. David Solebury Franks and Lieut. Col. Richard Varick. They were aides to
Arnold.
49 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
From a facsimile of the original in the writing of Samuel Shaw, reproduced in
William Abbatt's Crisis of the Revolution (N. Y.: 1899), p. 46. The draft, in the
Washington Papers, is also in the writing of Shaw.
90 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
To DOCTOR ISAAC LEDYARD
Robinson's, September 26, 1780.
Sir: I return you my thanks for your information conveyed
through a letter to Colo Lamb which has just arrived here.51
I shall esteem it a particular favor if you will instantly get
possession of the Papers (which you mention,) in the posses-
sion of young Mr Smith and also to have him and the mate
who is also noticed in your letter, secured, provided you see
sufficient cause for it; in this case, if you find assistance neces-
sary, I have inclosed a line to the Commanding Officer at Fish
kill, to afford it on your application. I am etc.52
To DOCTOR ISAAC LEDYARD
Robinson's House, September 26, 1780.
Dr. Sir: I have received your favor of today. We cannot find
on examination any charges against "Thomas Smith" and
therefore We cannot with propriety take any measures re-
specting him. His situation however may become a subject of
the States' consideration. As to Joshua Smith,53 he is in safe
custody, and has had a good share in the matters which have
been carrying on. He furnished Major Andre with a Coat to
disguise himself, who left his Uniform one and which Captn.
"Doctor Ledyard's letter to Colonel Lamb is not now found in the Washington
Papers, but there are therein three of his letters, all of September 27 (two to Washing-
ton and one to Hamilton), which disclose that young William Smith attempted to
conceal the papers of his father, Joshua Hett Smith, and that William planned a rescue
of his father, but was frustrated by Col. Ann Hawkes Hay, his uncle-in-law. The
surgeon's mate, Doctor Ledyard found, was entirely innocent of any connection with
Arnold's treason.
62 The draft is in the writing of Richard Kidder Meade, who, at Washington's direc-
tion, wrote this same day (September 26) to the officer commanding at Fishkill, to
furnish "an officer and party of men" to Doctor Ledyard, if applied for.
"Joshua Hett Smith.
1780]
ARNOLD AND ANDRt 91
Carnes54 will get in consequence of a Letter from Mr. Smith
for the purpose. You will send the Captain the inclosed. I
wish You to say nothing of this matter, as we may possibly
receive further intelligence with respect to the plot or at least
of other characters. I am etc.55 [n.y.h.s.]
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Robinson's House in the Highlands,
September 26, 1780.
Sir : I have the honor to inform Congress that I arrived here
yesterday about 12 o'clock on my return from Hartford. Some
hours previous to my arrival Major General Arnold went
from his quarters which were at this place; and as it was sup-
posed over the river to the garrison at West-point, whether I
proceeded myself in order to visit the post. I found General
Arnold had not been there during the day, and on my return
to his quarters, he was still absent. In the mean time a packet
had arrived from Lt. Colonel Jamison announcing the capture
of a John Anderson who was endeavouring to go to New-
York, with the several interesting and important papers men-
tioned below, all in the hand writing of General Arnold. This
was also accompanied with a letter from the prisoner avowing
himself to be Major John Andre Adjt: General of the British
army, relating the manner of his capture, and endeavouring
to shew that he did not come under the description of a spy.
From these several circumstances, and information that the
General seemed to be thrown into some degree of agitation
on receiving a letter a little time before he went from his
Capt. Patrick Carnes, of Lee's Dragoons. He served to the close of the war.
65 In the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
92 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
quarters, I was led to conclude immediately that he had heard
of Major Andre's captivity, and that he would if possible escape
to the enemy, and accordingly took such measures as appeared
the most probable to apprehend him.56 But he had embarked
in a barge, and proceeded down the river under a flag to the
vulture ship of war, which lay at some miles below Stony and
Verplank's points. He wrote me after he got on board a let-
ter, of which the inclosed is a copy. Major Andre is not ar-
rived yet, but I hope he is secure and that he will be here
to-day .5T I have been and am taking proper precautions, which
I trust will prove effectual, to prevent the important conse-
quences which this conduct on the part of General Arnold
was intended to produce. I do not know the party that took
Major Andre; but it is said, it consisted only of a few militia,
who acted in such a manner upon the occasion as does them
the highest honor and proves them to be men of great virtue.
They were offered, I am informed, a large sum of money for
his release, and as many goods as they would demand, but
without any effect. Their conduct gives them a just claim to
the thanks of their country, and I also hope they will be other-
wise rewarded. As soon as I know their names I shall take
pleasure in transmitting them to Congress. I have taken such
measures with respect to the Gentlemen of General Arnolds
family as prudence dictated; but from every thing that has
hitherto come to my knowledge, I have the greatest reason to
believe they are perfectly innocent. I early secured, Joshua
Smith, the person mentioned in the close of General Arnolds
68" You will see by the inclosed we are too late. Arnold went by water to the Vul-
ture. I shall write to General Greene advising him without making a bustle to be in
readiness to march and even to detach a Brigade this way. . . . The Vulture is gone
down to NY."— Hamilton to Washington, Sept. 25, 1780. Hamilton's letter is in the
Washington Papers.
"'Andre arrived at West Point September 26.
1780] ARNOLD'S ESCAPE 93
letter,58 and find him to have had a considerable share in this
business.59 I have the honor etc.60
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
Head Quarters, Robinsons, September 26, 1780.
Dear Sir: I arrived here yesterday on my return from an
interview with the French General and Admiral and have
been witness to a scene of treason as shocking as it was unex-
pected. General Arnold from every circumstance had entered
into a plot for sacrificing West Point. He had an interview
with Major Andre the British Adjutant General last Week at
Jos. Smiths61 where the plan was concerted; by an extraordi-
nary concurrence of incidents, Andre was taken on his return
with several papers in Arnolds handwriting that proved the
treason. The latter unluckily got notice of it before I did,62
68 The N. B. to Arnold's letter of September 25 to Washington read: "In Justice to
the Gentlemen of my Family Colonel Varick and Major Franks, I think myself in
honor bound to declare, that they as well as Joshua Smith Esqr. (who I know is sus-
pected) are totally Ignorant of any transactions of mine; that they had reason to
believe were Injurious to the Public."
58 The inclosures are listed by McHenry on the above letter to Congress, but no
copies are found in the Papers of the Continental Congress or the Washington Papers:
Council of War, September 6; Estimate of the Force at West Point and Its Depend-
encies; Estimate of Men to Man the Works at West Point; Remarks on Works of
West Point; Return of Ordnance at West Point; Artillery Orders for Disposition of the
Corps in Case of an Alarm at West Point; Permit Dated September 22 to Major
Andre, under the description of John Anderson to pass the guards at White Plains, or
below if he should choose, being on public business. Copies of all these listed papers
in Arnold's writing were found on Andre. They are now in the New York State
Library, Albany, having been acquired by the purchase of the papers of Gov. George
Clinton. Presumably they came into Clinton's possession through the civil proceed-
ings instituted by the State relative to Arnold's treason. Photostat copies of them are
in the Library of Congress. The original of Arnold's "Remarks on works at West
Point " is also in that Library. Arnold made a copy of it, which he gave to Andre.
In the writing of James McHenry, who was then acting as aide to Lafayette. The
letter was read in Congress on September 30 and referred to James Lovell, Nicholas
Van Dyke, and James Duane.
"Joshua Hett Smith.
Lieut. Col. John Jameson, of the Second Continental Dragoons, when Andre was
brought to his quarters by Paulding, Van Wart, and Williams, sent him forward, under
guard, to Arnold at Robinson's House, as the latter was Jameson's commanding officer.
94 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
went immediately down the river got on board the Vulture
which brought up Andre and proceeded to New York.
I found the post in the most critical condition and have been
taking measures to give it security which I hope will be to
night effectual. With the greatest respect etc.
P. S. Smith is also in our possession and has confessed facts
sufficient to establish his guilt.63 [ n. y. h. s. ]
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Tuesday, September 26, 1780.
Parole Smallwood. Countersigns Gist, Marion.
Watchword Intrepid.
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel Bradley
Lieutenant Colonel Olney
Major Waite64
Brigade Major Smith
The truly martial appearance made by the troops yesterday
the order and regularity with which they made the different
marches and the ease and facility they performed the several
manoeuvres does them the greatest Credit and affords the most
Acceding to Major Tallmadge's vehement protest, Jameson afterwards recalled Andre;
but insisted on sending notice to Arnold of his capture. He wrote to Washington,
September 27: "I am very sorry that I wrote to G Arnold. I did not think of
a British Ship being up the River and expected that if he was the man he has since
turned out to be that he wou'd come down to the Troops in this Quarter in which
case I shou'd have secured him. I mentioned my intention to Major Tallmage and
some other of the Field Officers all of whom were clearly of Opinion that it wou'd be
right until I could hear from your Excellency." Jameson's letter is in the Washington
Papers.
63 In the writing of George Augustine Washington.
"Maj. Jason Waite (Wait), of the Third New Hampshire Regiment. He was trans-
ferred to the First New Hampshire Regiment in January, 1781, and resigned in
December, 1782.
For the day Tomorrow
1780] ARNOLD'S TREASON 95
flattering prospect of substantial service reputation and mili-
tary glory.
Nothing can be more pleasing to the officers who feel for the
honor of the Army and the Independence of America than to
see the rapid progress made by the Troops in military discipline.
The good conduct of all the officers yesterday gave the gen-
eral the highest satisfaction and the particular services of the
Inspector General and those serving in that line deserve his
particular thanks.
Treason of the blackest dye was yesterday discovered! Gen-
eral Arnold who commanded at Westpoint, lost to every senti-
ment of honor, of public and private obligation, was about to
deliver up that important Post into the hands of the enemy.
Such an event must have given the American cause a deadly
wound if not a fatal stab. Happily the treason has been timely
discovered to prevent the fatal misfortune. The providential
train of circumstances which led to it affords the most convinc-
ing proof that the Liberties of America are the object of divine
Protection.
At the same time that the Treason is to be regretted the Gen-
eral cannot help congratulating the Army on the happy dis-
covery. Our Enemies despairing of carrying their point by
force are practising every base art to effect by bribery and Cor-
ruption what they cannot accomplish in a manly way.
Great honor is due to the American Army that this is the
first instance of Treason of the kind where many were to be
expected from the nature of the dispute, and nothing is so
bright an ornament in the Character of the American soldiers
as their having been proof against all the arts and seduction of
an insidious enemy.
Arnold has made his escape to the Enemy but Mr. Andre
the Adjutant General to the British Army who came out as a
spy to negotiate the Business is our Prisoner.
For the day Tomorrow
96 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
His Excellency the commander in Chief has arrived at
West-point from Harford and is no doubt taking the proper
measures to unravel fully, so hellish a plot.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Wednesday, September 27, 1780.
Parole Westpoint. Countersigns Fortune, Favours.
Watchword America.
Brigadier General Paterson
Colonel Marshall
Lieutenant Colonel Vose
Major Cogswell
Brigade Major Woodbridge
For detachment Major Maxwell65
At a division General Court martial Septr. 17th, Colonel
Swift president, Peter Rooney, James Moore, John Miller and
James Welch Soldiers in Colonel Stewards regiment of Light
infantry were tried for " Robbery " severally found Guilty of
the charge and sentenced to suffer death (more than two thirds
of the Court agreeing thereto).
Major General Greene Approves the sentence.
At the General court martial whereof Colonel H. Jackson
is President, the 23d. instant : Thomas Thomson, Forage mas-
ter to General Hand's brigade was tried for " Exchanging pub-
lic Oats for bridles."
The Court are of opinion that Mr. Thompson is guilty of
the charge against him being a breach of Article 1st. Section 12
of the Articles of War and do sentence that he shall at his own
^Maj. Hugh Maxwell, of the Second Massachusetts Regiment. He was appointed
lieutenant colonel of the Eighth Massachusetts Regiment in August, 1782; transferred
to the Third Massachusetts Regiment in June, 1783; served to November, 1783.
1780] ANDRt AND SMITH 97
charge make good the Loss or damage shall moreover forfeit
all his Pay and be dismiss'd from the service.
Major General Greene confirms the sentence of the Court
and orders it to be carried into Execution.
At the same Court, Abraham Cooper, a waggoner was tried
for "Embezzling public stores when employed in Carting the
same to the Army " and acquitted. He is to be released from
Confinement.
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, near West Point, September 27, 1780.
Sir : On my arrival here a very disagreeable scene unfolded
itself. By a lucky accident, a conspiracy of the most dangerous
nature, the object of which was to sacrifice this post, has been
detected. General Arnold, who has sullied his former glory
by the blackest treason, has escaped to the enemy. This is an
event that occasions me equal regret and mortification; but
traitors are the growth of every country and in a revolution of
the present nature, it is more to be wondered at, that the cata-
logue is so small than that there have been found a few.
The situation of the army at this time will make General
Heath's presence with us useful. I have written to him for this
purpose. I hope his removal will be attended with no incon-
venience to your Excellency. With the greatest regard etc.66
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Robinson's House, September 27, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have concluded to send Major Andre of the Brit-
ish Army and Mr. Joshua Smith who has had a great hand in
carrying on the business between him and Arnold to Camp
MThe draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton, who first dated it September
26 and afterwards September 27. Sparks prints the letter under date of September 26.
98 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
to morrow. They will be under an Escort of Horse and I wish
You to have separate Houses in Camp ready for their reception,
in which they may be kept perfectly secure; and also strong
Trusty Guards trebly officered that a part may be constantly
in the rooms with them. They have not been permitted to be
together and must be still kept apart. I would wish the room for
Mr Andre to be a decent one and that he may be treated with
civility ; but that he may be so guarded as to preclude a possibil-
ity of his escaping, which he will certainly attempt to effect if it
shall seem practicable in the most distant degree. Smith must
also be as carefully secured and not treated with asperity.
I intend to return to morrow morning and hope to have the
pleasure of seeing You in the course of the day. You may keep
these several matters secret. I write toMrTilghman. I am etc.67
To THE OFFICER COMMANDING AT WEST POINT
AND ITS DEPENDENCIES
Head Quarters, Robinson's Farms, September 27, 1780.
Sir : You will immediately make a distribution of the troops
under your command to the several posts that the whole may
be in a state of defence at the shortest notice. You will also have
each work supplied with ten days provision wood water and
stores and keep up constantly that supply; and you will take
every other precaution for the security of the post. The Enemy
will have acquired from General Arnold a perfect knowledge
of the defences, and will be able to take their measures with
the utmost precision. This makes it essential our vigilance and
care should be redoubled for its preservation. You will do
every thing in your power to gain information of the enemy's
designs, and give me intelligence as early as possible of any
movement against you.
*' The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
1780] COMMAND OF WEST POINT 99
A party of Militia, who have been employed cutting wood
and another as guards to the stores at Fish Kill, that have been
called in, are to return to their destination.
Col Gouvion will remain a few days at this Post to assist in
the necessary arrangements.68
To MAJOR GENERAL ALEXANDER McDOUGALL
Robinson's Farms, September 27, 1780.
Sir : You will be pleased to take command of West Point and
its dependencies till the arrival of Major General St Clair. You
will find instructions for the Commanding Officer of the post
with the Officer who precedes you, which you will transfer to
General St Clair. I am etc.69
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Thursday, September 28, 1780.70
Parole Rotterdam. Countersigns F., C.
Watchword Advance.
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Bradford
Lieutenant Colonel Sumner
Major Walbridge
Brigade Major Oliver
For the day tomorrow
68 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
68 The draft is in the writing of George Augustine Washington.
On September 27 Washington wrote also to Col. John Lamb, at Kings Ferry, re-
questing him to return to West Point and assume command of the artillery. This
letter is in the Washington Papers.
Also Richard Kidder Meade, by Washington's direction, replied on September 27
to Asst. Deputy Adjt. Gen. Isaac Hubbell, to whose care Andre and Joshua Hett Smith
had been committed, that Smith could send for his clothes, but could not be visited by
any member of his family and must be denied the use of pen, ink, and paper. Smith's
letter to Washington, forwarded by Hubbell, is in the Washington Papers.
'"Washington resumed command of the Army on this date.
100 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Friday, September 29, 1780.
Parole Pennsylvania. Countersigns Peru, Po.
Watchword Prepare.
Brigadier General Stark
Colonel Angell
For the day tomorrow Lieutenant Colonel Newall
Major Reid
Brigade Major Ashley
To MAJOR GENERAL ALEXANDER McDOUGALL
OR OFFICER COMMANDING AT WEST POINT
Head Quarters, Orange Town, September 29, 1780.
Dear Sir: I find upon my arrival at this place that the ex-
pected supply of Flour has not come on from the Southward,
and that we have only Bread for this day and tomorrow, in-
cluding one hundred Barrels of Flour already drawn down
from the point. I am therefore under the necessity, but very
reluctantly, of ordering down two hundred Barrels more. You
will be pleased to write immediately to Colo. Hay or his deputy
and desire him to send down to you whatever quantity of Flour
he may have on the upper part of the River. I am &c.
P. S. The Affair of Andre and Smith will probably detain
Genl. St. Clair somewhat longer than was expected. You will
be pleased to remain till he relieves you; in the mean time
making the necessary arrangements.71
"In the writing of Tench Tilghman. From a photostat of the original kindly fur-
nished by Dr. A. S. W. Rosenbach, of New York City.
1780] EXAMINATION OF ANDRE 101
To THE BOARD OF GENERAL OFFICERS
Head Quarters, Tappan, September 29, 178.0.
Gentlemen : Major Andre, Adjutant General, to the British
army will be brought before you for your examination. He
came within our lines in the night on an interview with Major
General Arnold, and in an assumed character; and was taken
within our lines, in a disguised habit, with a pass under a
feigned name, and with the inclosed papers concealed upon
him. After a careful examination, you will be pleased, as
speedily as possible, to report a precise state of his case, together
with your opinion of the light, in which he ought to be con-
sidered, and the punishment, that ought to be inflicted. The
Judge Advocate72 will attend to assist in the examination, who
has sundry other papers relative to this matter, which he will
lay before the Board. I have the honor, etc.73
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Saturday, September 30, 1780.
Parole Green. Countersigns Greece, Guard.
Watchword Gallant.
Brigadier General Clinton
Colonel Vose
For the day Tomorrow < Lieutenant Colonel Badlam
Major Throop
Brigade Major Darby
For Detachment Major Winslow74
72 John Laurance.
73 In the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
74Maj. Nathaniel Winslow, of the Tenth Massachusetts Regiment. He retired in
January, 1781.
102 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
The Brigade Quarter masters are to make out returns of the
number of Tents absolutely wanting to cover the men agree-
ably to the regulations; These to be signed by the officers com-
manding brigades and sent to the Quarter masters store this
afternoon.
Twelve waggoners to be drafted from the line and sent to
the Grand parade tomorrow at Guard mounting.
Colonel Pickering having been appointed by the Honorable
the Congress Quarter Master General to the Army of the
United States; he is to be obeyed and respected as such. Henry
Emanuel Lutterloh Esquire is also appointed Commissary of
Forage.
As the direction of the Waggon Department is a charge of
great importance (in foreign Armies generally intrusted to a
Field officer of the line) and as it is thought the service will be
benefitted by a similar practice in our Army Major Cogswell of
the first Massachusett's regiment is appointed Waggon Master
to the Main Army and is to be obeyed as such.
The Commander in Chief takes this occasion to thank Major
General Greene for the able and satisfactory manner in which
he discharged the duties of the Quarter Master General's de-
partment during his continuance in office; and to Express his
Approbation of his Conduct and orders in the Absence of the
General.
To LIEUTENANT GENERAL JAMES ROBERTSON
Tappan, September 30, 1780.
Sir: I have just received your letter of the 29th. Any delay
which may attend your flags has proceeded from accident and
the peculiar circumstances of the occasion not from intentional
neglect or violation. The letter that admitted of an answer has
1780] ANDRE'S CASE 103
received one as early as it could be given with propriety, trans-
mitted by a flag this morning. As to messages, I am unin-
formed of any that have been sent.
The necessaries for Major Andre will be delivered to him
agreeable to your request. I am etc.75
To SIR HENRY CLINTON
Head Quarters, September 30, 1780.
Sir: In answer to Your Excellency's Letter of the 26th In-
stant, which I had the honor to receive, I am to inform You,
that Major Andre was taken under such circumstances as
would have justified the most summary proceedings against
him. I determined however to refer his case to the examina-
tion and decision of a Board of General Officers, who have
reported, on his free and voluntary confession and Letters;
"That he came on Shore from the Vulture Sloop of war in
the night of the Twenty first of September Instant on an inter-
view with General Arnold in a private and secret manner.
Secondly that he changed his dress within our lines, and un-
der a feigned name and in a disguised habit passed our Works
at Stoney and Verplanks points the Evening of the Twenty
second of September Instant, and was taken the morning of
the Twenty third of September Instant, at Tarry Town, in a
disguised habit, being then on his way to New York, and
when taken he had in his possession Several papers which con-
tained intelligence for the Enemy. The Board having ma-
turely considered these Facts do also report to His Excellency
General Washington, that Major Andre Adjutant General to
the British Army ought to be considered as a Spy from the
"The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
104 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Sept.
Enemy, and that agreable to the Law and usage of Nations it
is their opinion he ought to suffer death"78
From these proceedings it is evident Major Andre was em-
ployed in the execution of measures very foreign to the Ob-
jects of Flags of truce and such as they were never meant to
authorise or countenance in the most distant degree; and this
Gentleman confessed with the greatest candor in the course of
his examination, "that it was impossible for him to suppose
he came on shore under the sanction of a Flag." I have the
Honor etc."
^INSTRUCTIONS FOR SPIES GOING INTO
NEW YORK
[September, 1780]
Get into the City.
There, in the best manner possible, learn the designs of the
Enemy.
Whether they mean to evacuate New York wholly in part,
or continue the Army there. A discovery of this kind will be
best made by attending a little to the conduct of Delancy, Bay-
ard, Matthews78 &ca., as they, more than probably, will be pre-
paring for a Removal if the City is to be left, wholly, or in
any considerable degree.
Or Secondly, whether they have any views of Operating
against this Army, which will be best known by their prepara-
tions of Waggons, Horses &ca., these will want Shoeing, re-
pairing, &ca. Collecting together.
Enquire whether the Transports are Wooding and Water-
ing. Whether the Stores are removing from the City into
70The proceedings of the Board of General Officers, dated Sept. 29, 1780, are in the
Washington Papers.
77 Copy of this letter is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
7h James de Lancey, William Bayard, and David Mathews.
1780] WANT OF FLOUR 105
them, and whether any Regimental Baggage is Imbarked.
Enquire also, how the Enemy are off for Provisions; whether
the Cork Fleet is arrived and the number of Provision Ships
it consists of.
Enquire also if Admiral Byrons Fleet is arrived. Where
Lord Howe and the New York Fleet is; whether within
Sandy hook, or gone out to Sea, and for what purpose.
Whether any Troops have been Imbarked lately and for
what place. Whether any have arrived from England lately,
or are expected.
[Whether the Merchants who came from Europe and those
who have been attached to Government are packing up or sell-
ing off their goods. Attend particularly to Coffin and Anderson
who keep a large dry good Store and supply their Officers and
Army.]79
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Orange Town, October i, 1780.
Sir: I have received your Excellency's favors of the 16th: and
24th: ulto. with the several Resolves to which they refer. The
first came to hand while I was absent on my journey to Har-
ford. I most sincerely wish that the measures which have been
adopted, for procuring a supply of fresh and salt Meat, may
prove effectual.
Congress will perceive by the inclosed, which is the Copy of
a representation made to me yesterday by the Commy. Gen-
eral of Issues,80 that the Army must be again reduced to ex-
tremities for want of Flour, except a supply should arrive in
the course of a few days. I have written to the States of New
79 The paragraph in brackets is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
80 Charles Stewart, who wrote to Washington on September 30. The original of this
letter is in the Washington Papers. A copy is filed with Washington's letter in the
Papers of the Continental Congress.
106 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
York and Pennsylvania on the subject, and have requested
their immediate aid.
The season must very soon deprive us of Grass Forage, on
which the Horses now principally subsist, and I cannot learn
from Colonel Pickering, that any effectual measures are taken,
or are likely to be taken to establish Magazines of Hay or
Grain. The State of Jersey must, thro' necessity, have fur-
nished, by impress and by purchase, more of both than the
quota demanded of them, and therefore our future supply of
Grain, at least, ought to be drawn from a distance, and before
the state of the Roads will add to the difficulties of transporta-
tion. The Country in which the Army will probably lay, un-
till the expiration of the Campaign, has been already so
drained, that I do not think it will be possible, even with strip-
ping the inhabitants intirely, to subsist the Horses after the
Grass fails. I think it my duty to mention these matters in
time, that Congress may endeavour to concert some measures
for our relief before we are overtaken by the Winter. I have
the Honor &c.81
To MAJOR GENERAL ARTHUR ST. CLAIR
[Head Quarters, Tappan, October i, 1780.]
Sir: You will repair forthwith to West Point and take the
command of that Post with its dependencies, till further or-
ders. The Troops under your command will consist of the
Pennsylvania Division Col Meig's and Livingstons regiments
of Continental Troops and a body of Massachusetts and New
Hampshire Militia. The inclosed is a copy of the instructions
slIn the writing of Tench Tilghman. The letter was read in Congress on October 3
and referred to the committee appointed to confer with the directors of the bank.
This committee was composed of John Morin Scott, Samuel Adams, Nicholas Van
Dyke, and John Sullivan.
1780] VIGILANCE ENJOINED 107
left for the commanding officer which you will please to ob-
serve. Unless you should think it necessary for the immediate
security of the Post to draw the first Pennsylvania Brigade
nearer West Point, I should wish it to remain somewhere in its
present position, as it may then at the same time serve the pur-
pose of reinforcing the main Army in case of a movement
against it, but on the first appearance of the Enemy coming in
force up the River, that Brigade should have previous orders
to march to your succour.
Orders have been given in the case last mentioned for the
Posts of Verplanks and Stoney Points to be evacuated with
all the Cannon and stores, and the Garrison added to that at
West Point; but I would not wish this step to be precipitated,
as in case of an attempt to surprise you these Posts will not
only be useful to give the alarm but they will probably in all
cases gain you time, as the Enemy would hardly venture to pass
them with transports full of Troops. The baggage and extra
stores may be sent off at the first aspect of a serious movement
but the Troops should not evacuate till the Enemy are in a sit-
uation to invest the Posts.
Dobb's ferry may also serve you as an out Post; but care
must be taken to distinguish the firing against a single Vessel
passing from that against a number, which will of course be
more continued.
Great vigilance should be used in patroling on the East side
of the River, as it will otherwise be easy for the Enemy to land
a body of men below and surprise Verplanks.
I must intreat your particular care of the Boats on the River;
to keep them in repair and as much as possible collected. All
those at Kings ferry more than are wanted for the necessary
service of the communication should be removed up the River.
108 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
A part of the Militia at Verplanks and Stoney Points may also
be drawn to the main Garrison.82 Cms. h. s. ]
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
Head Quarters, Orange Town, October i, 1780.
Dear Sir : The inclosed will shew your Excellency the distress
we are like to experience in a few days for want of flour.83 You
are so fully impressed with the pernicious tendency of so fre-
quent a repetition of want, that I am sure, I need only inform
you of our prospects, to engage your utmost exertions to give
us the necessary supply. The exigency demands immediate
measures to forward to West Point all the flour ready at the
different mills. It has been mentioned to me that a deficiency
of barrels would retard the supplies from your state, I have
given directions to have those at West Point repaired and de-
livered to the order of your agent. Your Excellency knows the
reliance I place on the state of New York, delicacy will not
permit me to say how much we must depend on you at this
juncture. I have the honor etc.84
To PRESIDENT JOSEPH REED
Head Quarters, Orange Town, October 1, 1780.
Dear Sir: I am under the necessity of laying before your
Excellency, the Copy of a representation made to me yesterday,
by the Commy. General of Issues, on the subject of Flour. The
representation goes so fully and truly into our present situation
and prospects, that I shall only refer your Excellency to it, and
82 In the writing of Richard Kidder Meade.
83 The inclosure was a copy of the letter from Charles Stewart, dated Sept. 30, 1780.
(See Washington's letter to the President of Congress, Oct. 1, 1780.)
MThe draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
1780] FLOUR SCARCITY 109
then entreat you to exert your authority and influence, with
the Agents and all others concerned, in procuring and for-
warding a supply to Trenton without delay. Of 470 Barrels
which were in the Magazine of West point, I have been un-
avoidably obliged to draw down 300 to this Army, by which
that valuable post may be endangered, should the Enemy
endeavour to obtain by force, what they attempted to gain
by treachery; but in which they have been so providentially
disappointed.
I most sincerely condole with your Excellency on the loss
of your amiable Lady. The news of that melancholy event was
imparted to me by the Minister of France on my journey from
Harford. I have the Honor etc.85
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown, Sunday, October 1, 1780.
Parole Hellespont. Countersigns M., Q.
Watchword Look about.
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel Cilley
Lieutenant Colonel Dearborn
Major Harwood86
Brigade Major Pettingall
The Board of General officers appointed to examine into the
Case of Major Andre have reported.
1st. "That he came on shore from the Vulture sloop of War
in the night of the 21st. of September last on an interview with
General Arnold in a private and secret manner."
85 In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
80Maj. Peter Harwood, of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment. He resigned in Octo-
ber, 1780.
For the day Tomorrow
110 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
2dly. "That he changed his dress within our Lines and
under a feigned name and in a disguised habit passed our
works at Stoney and Vere-Planks Points the Evening of the
22d. of September last and was taken the morning of the 23d.
of September last at Tarrytown in a disguised habit being then
on his way to New York; and when taken he had in his
possession several Papers which contain'd intelligence for the
Enemy."
The Board having maturely considered these Facts do also
report to his Excellency General Washington :
"That Major Andre Adjutant General to the British Army
ought to be considered as a spy from the Enemy and that agree-
able to the Law and usage of nations it is their opinion he
ought to suffer Death."
The Commander in Chief directs the execution of the
above Sentence in the usual way this afternoon at five o'clock
precisely.
At a division General Court martial the nth. of September
last Lieutenant Colonel Commandant Sherman President, Ma-
jor Albert Chapman87 was tried upon the following Charges:
1st. "For Embezzling public property and endeavouring to
induce the Quarter master of the regiment to assist him in
embezzling powder for his own private use."
2d. "For making up two enormous bills against Colonel
Nelson, an inhabitant of Morristown for taking up a strayed
horse the property of said Nelson and that without any ex-
pence to himself."
3d " For giving a Certificate to a soldier in the 7th. regiment
that he was inlisted for three years only, when he had repeat-
edly muster'd him for during the war and sworn to the Muster
Rolls."
rOf the Fifth Connecticut Regiment. He retired in January, 1781.
1780] EXECUTION OF ANDRt 111
The Court on considering the first and third Charges against
Major Chapman are of opinion the charge of Embezzling pub-
lic property is not supported therefore do acquit him of it; but
find him guilty of the other part of the first and third charge
being a breach of Article 5th. Section 18th. of the Articles
of War and do sentence him to be reprimanded in Division
orders.
The General is sorry to be under the disagreeable necessity
of differing in opinion with the Court; but he thinks the sen-
tence entirely inadequate to charges of so serious a nature as
those of which they find Major Chapman guilty. He is released
from Arrest.
There was a mistake in entering the evening order of the
25th. ultimo: instead of the Pennsylvania division, the first
Pennsylvania brigade only should have been mentioned as the
second brigade did not receive marching orders 'till several
hours after.
AFTER ORDERS
The Execution of Major Andre is postponed 'till tomorrow.88
EVENING ORDERS
Major Andre is to be executed tomorrow at twelve o'clock
precisely a Battalion of Eighty files from each wing to attend
the Execution.
ssAndre's execution was postponed on the receipt, by Washington, of a letter dated
September 30, from Sir Henry Clinton, informing him that he was sending Lieutenant
General Robertson, Lieut. Gov. Andrew Elliot, and Chief Justice William Smith to
Dobbs Ferry to meet Washington, or such persons as he might appoint, " to give you a
true State of facts, and to declare to You my Sentiments and Resolutions." Clinton's
letter is in the Washington Papers. The interview was between Generals Greene and
Robertson, Elliot and Smith not being allowed to land, as they were civilians, and the
matter was wholly a military one. Robertson's report to Clinton mentioned that
Greene had said "they expected if Andre was set free, Arnold should be given up."
Whether or not this was pure invention by Robertson, it was, of course, an impossible
condition for Clinton. The interview accomplished nothing.
112 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Monday, October 2, 1780.
Parole Lisbon. Countersigns Look, E.
Watchword Hereabouts.
Brigadier General Patterson
Colonel Tupper
' Lieutenant Colonel Sill
Major Knapp
Brigade Major Rice
For the day Tomorrow
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL LEVI WELLS
Head Quarters, Orange Town, October 2, 1780.
Sir : You will be pleased on the receipt of this to return with
the two State Regiments of Connecticut to your former station
upon the sound or to any other to which you may be ordered
by His Excellency Govr. Trumbull. I am &c.88
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown, Tuesday, October 3, 1780.
Parole North Carolina. Countersigns Namur, Pym.
Watchword Justice.
Brigadier General Huntington
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant
Reid
Lieutenant Colonel Johnston
Major Wyllys
Brigade Major White
For Detachment, Major Chapman
For the Day Tomorrow<
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] ARMY FOR THE WAR 113
AFTER ORDERS
Each regiment to furnish two Tents for the Camp and Quar-
ter Guards. The brigade Quarter masters will see that they are
properly pitched immediately.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Wednesday, October 4, 1780.
Parole Warwick. Countersigns N., R.
Watchword Hark.
Brigadier General Stark
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant
Weissenfels
Lieutenant Colonel Holdridge
Major Ballard
.Brigade Major Rosekrans
For the day Tomorrow
*To JOHN MATHEWS
Tappan, October 4, 1780.
My dear Sir: I have had the honor to receive your favors of
the 15th. and 24th. Ulto. I thank you much for your kind
communications which are rendered more pleasing as they are
offered without reserve.
As Congress has already allowed the alternative of raising
men for twelve months, opinions on the propriety of the meas-
ure can be of no avail; but since you have done me the honor to
ask mine I have no scruple in declaring I most firmly believe
that the Independance of the United States never will be estab-
lished till there is an Army on foot for the War; that90 [if we
00 Washington first wrote "that short of it," but afterwards substituted the phrase in
brackets, which is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison and himself.
114 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
are to rely on occasional or annual Levies] we must sink under
the expence; and ruin must follow.
From an opinion which seems to have influenced Congress,
that men cannot be drafted for the War (but which, with due
deference to their judgment I think is a mistaken one, as [it
seems to be a prevailing] sentiment91 as I have [heard, that
Nothing but an Army on a permanent footing will do)].
Gentn. unacquainted with the true state of facts, and struck
with the magnitude of the bounty which in the first instance
must be given to induce men to engage for this period, without
attending to the Sum which is given for a years service [per-
haps in reality for a much less time, tho a Year may be men-
tioned as the ostensible term,] and that this sum is more than
doubled at every New inlistment; without considering the im-
mense waste of Arms, ammunition, Stores, Camp utensils &ca.
incidental to these changes; without adverting to the pay and
subsistence of two sets of men at the same instant (the old
and New levies) and the expence of marching and counter-
marching them to and from Camp; Without taking into the
acct. the interruption which agriculture and all kinds of handi-
crafts meet with, by which [our Supplies are lessened and]
the prices are considerably increased; And (wch.is of the great-
est importance) without considering the difference between a
healthy Army (which is generally the case of one composed of
old Soldiers, and a sickly one, which is [commonly the case
with respect] to the New, and the lives lost in acquiring a sea-
soning, [and without considering that in all exchanges of pri-
vates prisoners of War, we give the Enemy a certain permanent
force and add but little and some times nothing to our own
Washington first wrote "as the sentiment of the people as far as I have been able
to come at it, is in favour of the measure"; but afterwards substituted the phrasing
in brackets, which is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
1780] PERMANENT ARMY NEEDED 115
strength, as the terms of service of those we receive in exchange
are already expired, or terminate often soon after.] Without
attending I say to these things, which are remote, and require
close investigation, and a recurrence to the public expendi-
tures to be masters of them, they conclude, that the bounty
necessary to engage men for the War is beyond our abilities,
reject it, and adopt another system which involves [ulti-
mately] ten times the expence and infinitely greater distress.
While in the one case we should have a well disciplined
Army, ready at all times and upon all occasions to take ad-
vantage of circumstances; in the other, the most favourable
moments may pass away unimproved, because the composi-
tion of our Troops is such that we dare not in the beginning
of a campaign attempt enterprizes on Acct. of the rawness of
the men, nor at the latter end of it because they are about
to leave us (after the immense toil and pains wch. the Officers
have taken to teach them their duty) and we have another
set to attend to.
From long experience and the fullest conviction, I have
been, and now am decidedly in favr. of a permanent force;
but knowing the jealousies wch. have been entertained on
this head; Heaven knows how unjustly, [and the cause of
which could never be apprehended were a due regard had
to our local and other circumstances, even if ambitious views
could be supposed to exist] ; and that our political helm was
in another direction, I forbore to press my Sentiments [for a
time] ; but at a [moment] when we are tottering on the brink
of a precipice, silence would [have been] criminal.
The amendment proposed by you for keeping the old levies
in the field till the new should arrive would certainly be a
most desirable thing if it could be accomplished; but I doubt
116 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
the practicability of it; for if there is not a definite term fixed
with the men we could as easily get them for the War; and if
there was a period fixed, altho the condition of a relief [should
be]92 annexed to it (which more than probably [would]92 be
kept as much as possible out of their sight) We never should
be able to retain them; desertion therefore, and a genl. loss of
public Arms, [would]92 be the inevitable consequence of an
attempt to detain them after they had compleated what they
conceived to be the term of their engagement.
I felt much pain in reading that part of your letter which
speaks of the reception of the Comee. of Co-operation in Con-
gress.93 At a time when public harmony is so essential; when
we should aid and assist each other with all our abilities; When
our hearts should be open to information, and our hands ready
to administer relief; to find distrusts and jealousies taking pos-
session of the Mind, and a party spirit prevailing is a most
melancholy reflexion, and forebodes no good.
I shall always be happy to hear from you,94 being with the
truest esteem etc.
82 The words in brackets are inserted in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
93 Mathews's letter to Washington (September 15) said: "I find there is a decided
party formed against the Committee that were at Camp, which I have seriously to
dread, will be productive of no good to our public affairs. I owe much to the public
but still I owe something to myself and can never tamely suffer a set of miscreants to
tryumph over me with impunity. Regardless of our Characters as members of their
own body, I find we are to be considered as Qr. Masters &c. and lyable to equal insults,
without the least pretentions to call such conduct in question. . . . Although I had
heard a good deal, and seen something of the rancour of these Demagogues yet I
never imagined it had risen to that height, I was made to feel it had done, on my re-
suming my seat in Congress. ... I suppose any future propositions of mine, will be
immediately exploded ' as too strongly tinctured with those Army principles, which I
had imbibed, whilst with them'. I cannot but think it hard, that a man who wishes to
be useful, should be thus unjustly precluded from being so." Mathews's letter is in
the Washington Papers.
94At this point the draft has the following crossed out: "indeed it is necessary I
should know more than comes to my knowledge officially of the intentions of Con-
gress respecting the Army that I may make the most of circumstances."
1780] SHORT ENLISTMENTS 117
To JAMES DUANE
Hd. Qrs., Tappan, October 4, 1780.
I thank you My Dear Sir for your letter of the 19th. of Septr.
I should have been happy in the information you give me that
some progress had been made in the business of raising a per-
manent army had it not been intimated to me through other
channels that in the resolutions framed on this article, the fa-
tal alternative of, for one year has been admitted. In my letter
to Congress of the 20th. of Aug. I recommend a draft for the
war or for three years; and say "a shorter period than one year
is inadmissible" . You will perceive however that the general
scope of my arguments look to an army for the war; and any
other idea crept in from an apprehension that this plan would
not go down. The present juncture is in my opinion pecul-
iarly favourable to a permanent army, and I regret that an
opening is given for a temporary one. It also gives me pain
to find that the pernicious state system is still adhered to by
leaving the reduction incorporation &c. of the regiments to
the particular states. This is one of the greatest evils of our
affairs.
I share with you the pleasure you feel from the measures
taking to strengthen the hands of Congress. I am convinced it
is essential to our safety that Congress should have an efficient
power. The want of it must ruin us.
The satisfaction I have in any successes that attend us or
even in the alleviation of misfortunes is always allayed by a
fear that it will lull us into security. Supineness and a disposi-
tion to flatter ourselves seem to make parts of our national
character; when we receive a check and are not quite undone,
we are apt to fancy we have gained a victory; and when we
118 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
do gain any little advantage, we imagine it decisive and expect
the war is immediately to end. The history of the war is a
history of false hopes and temporary expedients. Would to
God they were to end here ! This winter, if I am not mistaken,
will open a still more embarrassing scene than we have yet
experienced to the Southward. I have little doubt should we
not gain a naval superiority, that Sir Henry Clinton will
detach to the southward to extend his conquests. I am far
from being satisfied that we shall be prepared to repel his
attempts.
Reflections of this kind to you, My Dr. Sir, are unnecessary;
I am convinced you view our affairs on the same scale that I
do, and will exert yourself to correct our errors and call forth
our resources.
The interview at Harford produced nothing conclusive,
because neither side knew with certainty what was to be ex-
pected. We could only combine possible plans on the suppo-
sition of possible events; and engage mutually to do every
thing in our powers against the next campaign.
Happy to rank you among the number of my friends, I
speak to you with confidence. With the truest esteem etc.95
95 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton. The date line and superscrip-
tion is in the writing of Washington.
Replying to this letter, Duane wrote (October 10): "I saw and explained the dan-
ger of an Alternative however cautiously expressed. ... I am perswaded that your
Excellency's Representations on this and every Subject will have as much Influence as
you can wish, and that on this particular Occasion nothing but a Clear Conviction of
Impracticability will induce Congress to overrule your Opinion. A false Estimate of
the power and Perseverance of our Enemies was friendly to the present Revolution:
and inspired that Confidence of Success in all Ranks of people, which was necessary
to unite them in so arduous a Cause. You cannot forget the Opinions, which were
Current on this Floor during the first and second Congresses and how firmly they
established this Error. We seem to part with it with Reluctance; it still hangs heavy
upon us; and has produced the Indecision, the Expedients and the Debility of which
you complain. I hope Misfortunes and distresses will at length rouse us to Just Senti-
ments and vigorous Exertions; and with your Excellency I pray God, That the fatal
Delusion which has marked our Conduct may end here." Duane's letter is in the
Washington Papers.
1780] BLANKETS AND CLOTHING 119
To OTIS & HENLEY
Head Quarters, Orange Town, October 4, 1780.
Gentlemen : I would fain hope that part if not the whole of
the Baize, purchased with intent of having it milled and cut
into Blankets, may be by this time ready for use. The Season
calls for them, and I very much fear, that the troops in the
field and the sick in Hospitals will be exceedingly distressed
for want of them, before they can possibly be got to hand. I
however trust that no means will be left untried to get them
forwarded as they are ready. If you find any difficulty in the
Quarter Master's department, be pleased to apply to the State
for Assistance, and represent to them the pressing necessity
which the Army labors under for Blankets. If three or four
thousand could be hurried on speedily, they would perhaps
supply the wants of the most needy, and make the delay of the
remainder more tolerable. I do not know whether you have
any, or what stock of other winter Cloathing: But whatever
you may have should be forwarded without loss of time.
Woolen Overalls and Stockings in preference to other Articles.
If the whole could be packed in tight Casks or well jointed
Cases, it would probably prevent the damage which may be
occasioned by the goods being exposed to the Weather during
the transportation.
I shall be glad to know what forwardness the Blankets are
in, and what quantities and kinds of other Articles you have
on hand. I am etc.
P. S. Be pleased to forward the Goods to New Windsor by
way of Litchfield.96
96 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
On October 4 Washington wrote also to William Bingham, acknowledging the re-
ceipt of a box of liqueurs sent by John Jay from Martinique, to which Bingham had
added another: "they both suffered much by the roughness of the transportation."
This letter is in the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
120 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
To JAMES WILKINSON
Head Quarters, Orange Town, October 5, 1780.
Sir : From the want of opportunities of having more frequent
personal communications with you, I am in a great measure
at a loss to know what are our real prospects of Cloathing for
the ensuing Winter. Mr. Moylan, your Assistant with the
Army, is only able to furnish me with Returns of what few
Articles are in his immediate possession and in the Magazine
at Newburgh, but he is intirely ignorant of what the Conti-
nental Agents in the different States may have in their hands,
or whether the States themselves have made any provision for
their respective Lines. The Season is already so far advanced,
that no time is to be lost in collecting together what is provided,
and informing the States of the true situation of matters that
they may yet endeavour to procure something for their troops
if it shall be necessary. On the foregoing accounts I shall expect
to see you with the Army immediately after the receipt of this
letter. Iam&c.97
To CORNELIUS HARING98
Head Quarters, Tappan, October 5, 1780.
I shall be glad if you, or some person authorised by you, will
meet the Commissary General of Issues at Maibie's Mills" to-
morrow Morning at 9 O Clock on business which materially
concerns the supply of the Army. I am &C.1
87 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman and is noted as being sent to
Wilkinson in care of the Board of War.
88 Contractor, at Paramus, of supplies for the Army for Bergen County, N. J.
"jasper Mabie(?), at Tappan, N. Y. Andre had been held a prisoner in the Mabie
Tavern.
1The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. The same letter was sent to Capt.
John Stagg and Daniel Tier, assistant State agents for Orange County, N. Y., at
Kakiate.
1780] DISAPPOINTMENTS 121
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown,
Thursday, October 5, 1780.
Parole Yarmouth. Countersigns York, Yes.
Watchword How are you.
Brigadier General Clinton
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant
Smith
Lieutenant Colonel Whiting
Major Wiley
Brigade Major Woodbridge
For the Day tomorrow
*To BRIGADIER GENERAL JOHN CADWALADER
Head Qrs., Tappan, October 5, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have to acknowledge and thank you for your
obliging and friendly letter of the 20th Ulto. It came to this
place in my absence from the Army and during my necessary
detention at West point on a very interesting but disgraceful
incident in our Military occurrences.
Altho I have but little leizure for the gratification of private
corrispondencies, I beg you to be assured, that from a warmth
of friendship, any letters of yours will be gratefully accepted,
and it is with much pleasure I receive fresh assurances of your
regard and attachment to me.
We are now drawing an inactive Campaign to a close. The
beginning of which appeared pregnant with events, of a fa-
vourable complexn, I hoped, but hoped in vain, that a prospect
was displaying which wd. enable me to fix a period to my mili-
tary pursuits, and restore me to domestic life. The favourable
disposition of Spain; the promised succour from France; the
122 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
combined force in the West Indies; The declaration of Russia
(acceded to by other powers of Europe, humiliating to the
Naval pride and power of Great Britain) ; the Superiority of
France and Spain by Sea in Europe; The Irish claims and
English disturbances, formed in the agregate, an opinion in
my breast (which is not very susceptable of peaceful dreams)
that the hour of deliverance was not far distant; for that how-
ever unwilling Great B : might be to yield the point, it would
not be in her power to continue the contest, but alas! these
prospects, flattering as they were, have prov'd delusory, and
I see nothing before us but accumulating distress. We have
been half of our time without provision and are like to con-
tinue so. We have no Magazines, nor money to form them,
and in a little time we shall have no Men, if we had money to
pay them. We have lived upon expedients till we can live no
longer. In a word, the history of the War is a history of false
hopes and temporary devices, instead of system and oeconomy.
It is in vain however to look back, nor is it our business to do
so. Our case is not desperate, if virtue exists in the people and
there is wisdom among our rulers; but to suppose that this
great revolution can be accomplished by a temporary army;
that this Army will be subsisted by State supplies, and that tax-
ation alone is adequate to our wants, is, in my Opinion absurd
and as unreasonable as to expect an Inversion in the order of
nature to accommodate itself to our views. If it was necessary,
it could easily be proved to any person of a moderate share of
understanding, that an annual Army, or any Army raised on
the spur of the occasion, besides being unqualified for the end
designed, is, in various ways which could be enumerated, ten
times more expensive than a permanent body of Men, under
good organization and military discipline, which never was,
1780] BEST MEN NEEDED 123
nor never will be the case of New Troops. A thousand argu-
ments, resulting from experience and the nature of things,
might also be adduced to prove, that the Army, if it is to de-
pend upon State supplies, must disband or starve; and that
taxation alone (especially at this late hour) cannot furnish the
mean to carry on the War. Is it not time then to retract from
error, and benefit by experience ? or do we want further proof
of the ruinous system we have pertinaciously adhered to ?
You seem to regret not having accepted the appointment of
Congress to a command in the American Army. It is a circum-
stance that ever was, most sincerely, regretted by me, and it is
the more to be lamented as we find an Officer high in rank,
and Military reputation capable of turning apostate, and at-
tempting to sell his Country. Men of independent spirit and
firmness of mind, must step forth to rescue our affairs from
the embarrassments they have fallen into, or they will suffer
in the general Wreck. I do not mean to apply this more to the
Military than civil line. We want the best, and ablest men
in both.
To tell you, if any event shd. ever bring you to the army, and
you have no commd. in it equal to your merit; nor place more
agreeable to your wishes than being a member of my family,
that I should be happy in seeing you there, would only be an-
nouncing a truth which has often been repeated and wch.
I hope you are convinced of.
My best respects attend Mrs. Cadwalader, and compliments
of congratulation to both of you on the increase of your family.
With sentiments of the most sincere regard etc.
On October 5 Richard Kidder Meade, by direction of Washington, gave permission
to Col. Moses Hazen to send one of his officers after deserters from the Second Cana-
dian Regiment. The strictest economy was to be used and accounts and vouchers of
the expense were to be kept. The draft of Meade's letter is in the Washington Papers.
For the day Tomorrow*
124 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Orangetown, Friday, October 6, 1780.
Parole Tarinton. Countersigns Take Care.
Watchword Tattoo.
Brigadier General Glover2
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant
Sherman
Lieutenant Colonel Huntington
Major Moril
Brigade Major Oliver
The General will beat at seven o'Clock tomorrow morning,
the Assemble at half past eight, and the march will commence
at nine precisely; the Quarter master General will furnish the
route and order of march.
A detachment from the fourth Massachusett's regiment to
Garrison the works at Dobbs's ferry to be sent at sunrise tomor-
row morning.
The sick to be sent to the flying hospital near the Magazine
this afternoon. AFTER orders
The General expects the strictest conformity to the regula-
tions and the greatest attention to preserve regularity on the
march and particularly where the Army halts to prevent
the wanton destruction of fences.
The Officers which compose the General Court Martial
whereof Colonel H Jackson is President are to march with the
right Column.
A Field Officer from General Howe's division with a Com-
missioned officer from each division in the Army are to take
the superintendency of the sick which are sent to the Flying
hospital.
2 Brig. Gen. John Glover.
1780] ORDER OF MARCH 125
The Van Guard of the right column to be formed on the
Grand Parade at seven o'clock precisely, the brigade and regi-
mental Quarter masters are to attend at the same time and
place.
The Camp Color men and the Invalids under proper officers
are to be brought on the Grand Parade with the Van Guard.
The Rear Guard to be paraded nine o'clock at the same
Place.
Brigadier General Glover with Lieutenant Colonel Com-
mandant Sherman will command the Van. Lieutenant Colo-
nel Commandant Smith with Lieutenant Colonel Whiting
and Major Wiley take Command of the Rear Guard.
The Baggage will begin to file ofi* at eight o'clock.
*To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
October 6, 1780.
Dear Sir: There is no disposition that can be made of the
Army at this time under our prest. uncertainties that may not
be subjected to material change (as you will be convinced by
recurring to the conversation I held with you on Wednesday
last). It is as I observed to you on that occasion, a matter of
great question with me, whether West point will not become
the head quarters of the Army when we go into Cantonments
for the Winter. I am very apprehensive that the diminution of
our present force, and little prospect of recruiting the Army in
Season; The importance of West-point, and oeconomical mo-
tives will compel us to concenter our force on the North-river,
keeping light parties only on our Flanks. If under this infor-
mation you should incline to take the immediate Command of
the Detachmt. which is about to march for West point, and the
general direction of matters on the East side of Hudsons river,
126 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
it will be quite agreeable to me that you should do so; but can-
dor has led me to a declaration of the uncertainty of that Post's
being long removed from my immediate Command. I am etc.
P. S. The Army will march and seperate to morrow; your
immediate determination is therefore necessary that the orders
may be prepared accordingly.3
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Head Quarters, Tappan, October 6, 1780.
Sir : You will take the command of the two divisions consist-
ing of the Jersey and York Brigades, and Starkes and late
Poors brigades with which you will march by the directest
route to West Point. The Troops will go all the way by Land,
sending their baggage and Artillery by Water from Kings
ferry for the security of which you will take effectual precau-
tions. I wish the Troops to arrive at their destination as soon as
it can be done without fatiguing them.
The first Pennsylvania Brigade marches to morrow to join
the Army, and General St Clair is directed to move the second
Pennsylvania Brigade and Meig's Regiment to the army as soon
as a sufficient Corps arrives to replace them. I wish them to be
enabled to begin their march as soon as it can be conveniently
done. St Clair waits till he is relieved by a Major General.
You will observe the instructions already given to the com-
manding officers of the Post, of which the inclosed are copies
with the following additions : So soon as you arrive with the
Troops you will discharge all the New Hampshire and Massa-
chusetts Militia with my thanks for their services. You will
3 On October 5 Greene had written to Washington, expressing a willingness to
command at West Point and on the east side of the Hudson.
1780] COMMAND AT WEST POINT 127
send of? all the spare Waggon and riding horses, and use every
other expedient in your power to oeconomise your forage, which
you know is an article of the greatest importance. You will
exert yourself to complete the works and put them in the most
perfect state of defence. This is essential, under the knowledge
the Enemy have of their present state, as a change in their
situation will not only render them in reality more defensible,
but will diminish the usefulness of the information, Arnold
has it in his power to give. The approaching reduction of
the Army adds to the necessity of having this important post
in the most respectable state of defence. Lieut Colonel Gou-
vion has my orders to join you for this purpose, with his Corps.
You will keep such parties as you judge safe and expedient
advanced towards the Enemy on the East side of the River
for the purpose of restraining their depredations and protect-
ing the Country.
You will begin to form winter covering at West Point and
its dependencies for a Garrison of about the number of your
present command and you will prosecute measures for ample
magazines of wood.
Besides the four Brigades already mentioned, the Artillery
and the Corps of Sappers and Miners, you will have under
your command, Livingstons Regiment and Sheldons dragoons.
There are also two Connecticut State regiments stationed on
the Sound, which on an emergency you may call to your aid,
and with whom in the mean time you can communicate for
intelligence of what passes in the Sound.
You will inform General McDougal that his division, Starkes
and late Poors Brigades, are with you. His private affairs may
demand his attention a while after which he will probably
join you.
128 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
When you have made your disposition, you will report it to
me. I commit this important Post to your care in full confi-
dence in your prudence vigilance activity and good conduct.4
CMS.H.S.]
To MAJOR GENERAL ARTHUR ST. CLAIR
Head Quarters, Orange Town, October 6, 1780.
Dear Sir: Four Brigades which are to compose the Garrison
of West point march from this Camp tomorrow Morning. As
soon therefore as a sufficient number of Men to relieve the 2d.
Pennsylvania Brigade and Meigs's Regt. arrive, you will direct
those Corps to join the Army, which will lay near Prekaness,
by the shortest Route. I have myself given orders to Genl.
Wayne to move tomorrow morning with the 1st. Brigade. You
will be pleased to remain yourself until relieved by another
Major General. I am etc.5
To SIR HENRY CLINTON
Head Quarters, October 6, 1780.
Sir: Congress having received information that there were
good Grounds to believe that a number of respectable Citizens
of south Carolina, prisoners of War by the Capitulation of
Charles town, had been seized upon and confined on board a
ship of War, have directed me to enquire of your Excellency
whether such Arrests and confinement have been made and
for what Reasons. You will oblige me by making the commu-
nication as soon as convenient.6 I have the honor etc.5
4 In the writing of Richard Kidder Meade.
5 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
6 Clinton answered (October 9) that he had heard the report that several of the
Charleston citizens had plotted " the destruction of the place where they were pro-
tected. . . . But as I am well acquainted with Lord Cornwallis's humanity, I cannot
entertain the least apprehension that he will stain the lustre of the King's Arms by
Acts of Cruelty." Clinton's letter is in the Washington Papers.
1780] MARCH OF THE ARMY 129
To BRIGADIER GENERAL ANTHONY WAYNE
Head Quarters, Orange Town, October 6, 1780.
Dear Sir: You will be pleased to march tomorrow Morning
at day light with the first Pennsylvania Brigade by the shortest
Route to Paramus, and from thence to the Army, which will
be in the neighbourhood of Prekaness.
Be pleased to direct the Quarter Master at the Ferry to for-
ward Genl. St. Clairs letter immediately to him. I am &c.7
[H.S.P.]
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Paramus, Saturday, October 7, 1780.
Parole Asia. Countersigns Brave, Best.
Watchword, Be ready.
Brigadier General Patterson
Lieutenant Colonel Furnald8
Major Prior9
Brigade Major Ashley
If tomorrow is fair the General and Assemble will beat, the
baggage file off and the Army march at the same time as this
morning. The Van under command of the new and the rear
Guard under Command of the old officers of the day will parade
in the Hackensack road where the Totowa road branches off.
The Connecticutt Division will mount the necessary Pic-
quets on the right : Baron Steuben's on the left : General Howe's
a Sub and twenty at Head quarters, the same in the rear on the
Totowa road; a Corporal and six at the Quarter Master Gen-
eral's and the same Number at the Adjutant General's.
TIn the writing of Tench Tilghman.
8 Lieut. Col. Tobias Fernald.
9Maj. Abner William Prior, of the First Connecticut Regiment. He was transferred
to the Fourth Connecticut Regiment in January, 1781, and resigned in December,
1781.
For the day Tomorrow
130 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
To MAJOR JOHN MAURITIUS GOETCHIUS10
Head Quarters, October 7, 1780.
Sir: Having Ordered a Captains Command from the Conti-
nental Troops to Garrison the Block House at Dobbs' Ferry.
In addition to this, I request you will be pleased to detach a
Subaltern and 20 Men from Your Corps, to join that Garrison,
and be under the Orders of the Commanding Officer : The De-
tachment to be relieved as often as you shall think necessary.
And as the design of the Post at Dobbs' Ferry is to protect and
cover the Country below as far as practicable, the remainder
of your Corps cannot be better employed than in patroling and
guarding the landing places and avenues leading to the Post,
in order to obtain early intelligence of any movement of the
Enemy, prevent a surprise and render every assistance in your
power to the Garrison. I am &C.11
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Paramus, October 7, 1780.
Sir: I had the honor on the 1st: Inst to receive Your Excel-
lency's dispatches of the 24th Ulto. addressed to Major General
Greene, and since, Your very obliging Letter of the 29th, for
which I beg leave to return You my acknowledgments. I have
written to Sir Henry Clinton in consequence of the former and
requested him to make the desired communications. When
these are received, they shall be transmitted.
I have the honor to inclose Congress a Copy of the proceed-
ings of a Board of General Officers (No 1) in the case of Major
Andre, Adjutant General to the British Army. This Officer
"Of the New Jersey Militia.
"The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
1780] EFFORT TO SAVE ANDRE 131
was executed in pursuance of the opinion of the Board, on
Monday the 2d. Inst at 12 OClock, at our late Camp at Tappan.
He acted with great candor, from the time he avowed himself
after his capture, untill he was executed. Congress will perceive
by a Copy of a Letter I received from him of the 1st Inst, that
it was his desire to be shot, but the practice and usage of war,
circumstanced as he was, were against the indulgence.12 At the
bottom of the 6th page of the proceedings, an explanatory note
is added, to prevent any suspicions being entertained injurious to
Colonel Sheldon, who otherwise, from the Letter addressed
to him, might be supposed to have been privy to the measures
between General Arnold and Major Andre. If it should be the
pleasure of Congress to publish the case,13 and which I would
take the liberty to suggest may not be improper, it will be nec-
essary for the explanatory note to be annexed.14 Besides the
proceedings, I transmit in the Inclosure No 2, Copies of Sun-
dry Letters respecting the matter, which are all that passed on
the subject, not included in the proceedings. I would not suf-
fer Mr. Elliot and Mr. Smith to land, who came up to Dobbs's
ferry agreeable to Sir Henry Clinton's Letter of the 30th of
September. Genl. Robertson was permitted to come on
shore and was met by Major Genl Greene, and mentioned
^Andres letter to Washington, dated Oct. i, 1780, requesting this indulgence, is in
the Washington Papers.
13The "Proceedings of a Board of General Officers . . . respecting Major John
Andre. . . . September 29, 1780" were published "by order of Congress. Charles
Thomson, Secretary." by Francis Bailey, in Philadelphia, 1780.
14 (1) "Lest it should be supposed that Colo Sheldon, to whom the above Letter is
addressed, was privy to the plot carrying on by General Arnold, it is to be observed,
that the Letter was found among Arnold's papers and had been transmitted by Colo
Sheldon, who, from a Letter of the 9th. of Septr. to Arnold which inclosed it, had
never heard of John Anderson before. Arnold in his Answer on the 10th. acknowl-
edged he had not communicated it to him, tho he had informed him that he expected
a person would come from New York, for the purpose of bringing him intelligence.
(2) It appears by the same Letter that Arnold had written to Mr. Anderson, under the
signature of Gustavus. His words are 'was obliged to write with great caution to
him, my Letter was signed Gustavus to prevent any discovery in case it fell into the
hands of the Enemy'".
132 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
substantially what is contained in his Letter of the 2d Instant. It
might not perhaps be improper to publish the Letters or part of
them in this Inclosure, as an Appendix to the proceedings of
the Board of General Officers.
I had the honor to mention in my Letter of the 24th of Au-
gust, that an interview was in contemplation between General
Lincoln and General Phillips, to take place at Elizabeth Town,
and that I should direct Mr Skinner, the Commissary to at-
tend and endeavour to effectuate an exchange of prisoners on
the principles and to the extent mentioned by Congress in their
Act of the 7th. The Inclosure No 3 contains my Instructions to
Mr Skinner, No 4 and 5 his Report and Major General Lin-
coln's of the result of the meeting, which happened on the 20th
Ulto at the place appointed, and to which I beg leave to refer
Congress. As it is now become certain that we cannot operate
against New York this Campaign, and it was the expectation
of this event's happening that prevented the release of our pri-
vate prisoners; it appears to me that the exchange of those in
that place, should be immediately attempted, especially as the
liberation of a great many of our Officers is made to depend
upon it and is otherwise wholly rejected. From these consider-
ations I have ventured to close with the terms of Mr Lorings
Letter to Mr Skinner of the 22d of Sepr, respecting the ex-
change of Our Officers and privates at New York and Long
Island, and have written to Sir Henry Clinton accordingly. I
hope Congress will approve the measure. As to the exchange
proposed between the Convention and the Southern prisoners,
Congress will be pleased to decide on it themselves. They have
the fullest knowledge of the present, and what will be the fu-
ture situation of our Affairs, and can best judge of the conduct
which the public good and humanity require to be pursued in
1780] ANDRE'S CAPTORS 133
the matter. For a variety of reasons I am, and profess myself
wholly incompetent to determine in the case.
I have now the pleasure to communicate the names of the
Three persons who captured Major Andre, and who refused to
release him notwithstanding the most earnest importunities
and assurances of a liberal reward on his part. Their conduct
merits our warmest esteem and I beg leave to add, that, I think,
the public will do well to make them a handsome gratuity.
They have prevented in all probability our suffering one of the
severest strokes that could have been meditated against us.
Their names are John Paulding, David Williams and Isaac
Van Wart.15
For the present I have detached the Jersey, New York and
New Hampshire Brigades with Stark's to the Highland posts.
They marched this morning from Orange Town and will re-
lieve the Pennsylvania line, which was thrown in at the mo-
ment General Arnold went to the Enemy. Major Genl Greene
has marched with these four Brigades and will command at
West point and its dependencies, 'till a further disposition.
The main body of the Army, the forage about Orange town
and the lower Country being exhausted, also moved this morn-
ing and is now arrived here. We have had a cold, wet, and te-
dious march on account of the feeble state of our Cattle, and
have not a drop of rum to give the Troops. My intention is to
proceed with them to the Country in the neighbourhood of
Passaick falls. I have the honor etc.
P. S. I have added a Note at the foot of Sir Henry Clintons
Letter of the 30th of Septr and one at the foot of Major Andres
15 On November 3 Congress resolved that it had "a high sense of the virtuous and
patriotic conduct" of these three Dutchess County militiamen and voted them each a
pension of 200 specie dollars annually for life and a silver medal. It requested also
that the Commander in Chief present the medals and a copy of the resolution.
134 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
Letter to me of the ist of October, which are in the Inclo-
sure No. 2,16 which, if the Letters are published I request may
be published also.17
To SIR HENRY CLINTON
Head Quarters, October 7, 1780.
Sir : I find by the Report of our Commissary of prisoners, of
the proceedings which lately took place between him and
Mr Loring at Elizabeth Town, on the 21st Ulto; he was willing
on the part of Your Excellency to accede substantially to my
propositions respecting an exchange of Officers, provided the
exchange should be extended to the privates, prisoners of War
18The inclosures are listed on the draft in the Washington Papers, and copies of all
of the documents relating to Andre are filed with this letter from Washington in
the Papers of the Continental Congress. The originals, drafts or copies, are also in the
Washington Papers. They are: Proceedings of the Board of General Officers in the case
of Major Andre, Sept. 29, 1780; Andre to Sir Henry Clinton, September 29; Washing-
ton to Clinton, September 30; Robertson to Washington, September 29; Washington
to Robertson, September 30; Clinton to Washington, September 30; Arnold to Wash-
ington, October 1; Robertson to Washington, October 2; Arnold to Washington, Octo-
ber 1; Andre to Washington, October 1.
". . . To the Copy of the letter from Sir Henry Clinton to Genl. Washington of the
30th of September 80, the following note was added: 'Lt. General Robertson, Mr
Elliot and Mr Smith came up in a Flag Vessel to Dobbs's ferry, agreable to the above
Letter. The Two last were not suffered to land. General Robertson was permitted to
come on shore and was met by Major General Greene, who verbally reported that
General Robertson mentioned to him in substance what is contained in his letter of the
2d of October to Genl Washington.'
"To the Copy of the letter from Major Andre of the ist. of October to Genl.
Washington, the following note was added:
"'The time which elapsed between the capture of Major Andre, which was on the
morning of the 23d of Septr. and his execution, which did not take place till 12
OClock on the 2d of October: The mode of trying him: His Letter to Sir Henry Clin-
ton, K. B. on the 29th of September, in which he said. "I receive the greatest atten-
tion from his Excellency General Washington and from every person, under whose
charge I happen to be placed"; not to mention many other acknowledgements which
he made of the good treatment he received, must evince that the proceedings against
him were not guided by passion or resentment. The practice and usage of War were
against his request and made the indulgence he solicited circumstanced as he was,
inadmissible.' "
"In the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison. The letter was read in Congress on
October 12 and referred to John Sullivan, Theodorick Bland, and John Mathews,
" with following papers GW's Instructions to Mr Skinner Mr Skinner's report of his
proceedings Mr Skinner's proposal to Mr Loring Mr Loring's Answer Genl Lincoln
letter to GW Sept 25."
1780] EXCHANGE NEGOTIATIONS 135
then in your hands at New York. This is perfectly agreable to
me, and I have accordingly directed our Commissary to take
the most effectual and immediate measures, to carry into exe-
cution, as well the exchange of those privates, as of the Offi-
cers. I have the honor etc.18
To ABRAHAM SKINNER
Paramus, October 7, 1780.
Sir: I find by Your Report of the 24th. Ulto. of the pro-
ceedings which took place at Elizabeth Town in your late
meeting with the British Commissary, that the Enemy are
willing to go substantially into the exchange of Officers men-
tioned in my Letter of Instructions to You of the 17th., pro-
vided the exchange is extended to our privates who were then
prisoners of War in New York, and according to a plan their
Commissary furnished You with in May and June last. This
proposal, with respect to the privates, is perfectly agreable to
me, and so I have informed Sir Henry Clinton; and you will
take the most effectual and immediate Measures to carry it into
execution, as well the exchange of those privates as of the
Officers, as before directed. If the exchange of Lt Genl Bur-
goyne and Major Genl Phillips and de Riedesel cannot take
place at the same time we shall have only to regret it, as it will
prevent relief to themselves and many Others. The proceed-
ings, which required the particular Exchanges to be made,
which were mentioned in my Letter of Instructions of the
17th of September remain unaltered, and therefore they must
I presume, be still attempted. In the instance of Lt Colo Ram-
say and Colo Webb, their exchange must be effected, as the
footing on which the business stands with respect to them,
18 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
136 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
can admit of no alternative. You are fully informed of it. In-
deed in the case of the former the point has been explicitly
agreed to by the Enemy for Lt Colo Conolly; and in the case
of the latter, if he is not exchanged the Officers of the Eagle
packet cannot be released. I wish You to expedite the business
as much as possible. I am etc.
P. S. Tho the Enemy may not consent to exchange at present
Lt Genl Burgoyne and Major Generals Phillips and Riedesel;
yet possibly they may be prevailed on to exchange one of the
Two last for Major Genl Lincoln. You will endeavour to
effect the release of the whole by every decent and becoming
argument, as it will relieve so many of our Officers, but at all
events attempt the exchange of one of these Two for General
Lincoln.
I have not yet received the determination of the State of Vir-
ginia, with respect to Lt Govr Hamilton; and therefore there
can be no stipulation for his exchange. I hope the State, to
whom I have written, will give me information in time on
the subject.19
To MAJOR GENERAL HORATIO GATES
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 8, 1780.
Sir: I have received your several favors of the 30th: of Au-
gust, 3d. and 15th: September. The first reached me only two
days before I sat out for Harford, to meet Count Rochambeau
and the Chevalier de Ternay; the two last came to hand while
I was absent. The first account, which I received of the unfor-
tunate affair near Campden, was by a Copy of your letter of
the 20th : August, from Hillsborough, to the president of Con-
gress. The shock was the greater, as the operations, a few days
luThe draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
1780] BRAVERY OF CONTINENTALS 137
preceding the Action, were much in our favor. The behavior
of the Continental Troops does them infinite honor. The ac-
counts, which the Enemy give of the action, shew that their
Victory was dearly bought. Under present circumstances, the
System which you are pursuing seems extremely proper. It
would answer no good purpose to take a position near the en-
emy, while you are so far inferior in force. If they can be kept
in check, by the light irregular troops under Colo. Sumpter20
and other active Officers, they will gain nothing by the time
which must be necessarily spent by you, in collecting and ar-
ranging the new Army, forming Magazines and replacing the
Stores which were lost in the Action.
Further detachments from this Army will very much de-
pend upon the measures which the enemy mean ultimately to
pursue. While they maintain a superiority by sea, they have
an infinite advantage over us; as they can send off a detach-
ment from their Army, make a stroke and return again, while
a part of ours may be marching to meet them at the point of
destination. Indeed, our reduction of numbers will be so great,
by the expiration of the times of the Levies the last of Decem-
ber, that the enemy may then make a very considerable detach-
ment, and yet leave a force sufficient to make us apprehensive
for the safety of the Highland posts, and for the security of the
communication thro' Jersey, on which we in a great measure
depend for supplies.
It was owing to die fatal policy of temporary inlistments,
that the enemy were enabled to gain the footing which they
hold in die southern States, and it is much to be feared that the
same Cause will be attended with an increase of disagreeable
effects. They are well acquainted with the periods of our
20 Sumter had been appointed a brigadier general of South Carolina State troops in
July, 1780.
138 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
dissolution, and have scarcely ever failed of taking advantage of
them; and we can hardly suppose they will be more negligent
this Winter than the preceding ones.
Preparations have been sometime making for an embarka-
tion from New York. The destination is publickly said to be
to the southward, and I think probability is in favor of that re-
port. Should a further extension of their conquests in that
quarter be their object, I am in hopes that the force collecting
by the exertions of North Carolina, Virginia and Maryland,
will keep them confined to the limits of south Carolina at least,
'till a better general disposition of our Affairs can be made, or
untill we may receive more effectual assistance from our Al-
lies; a measure which they have most seriously in view, and of
which an unlucky coincidence of circumstances has hitherto
deprived us.
The French Fleet has been blocked up in the harbour of
Newport almost ever since its arrival there, by a superior Brit-
ish Squadron, which superiority has been lately increased by
the arrival of Admiral Rodney from the West Indies with ten
ships.
Count de Guichen touched no where upon this Coast, tho'
by a variety of accounts he was up as high as the Latitude of 26.21
and by some higher. The report of his having taken 100 sail of
British Merchantmen is, I imagine, premature, as we have
intelligence of a late date from the Havannah, and no such
circumstance is mentioned.
It will be of very great importance that I should be regularly
informed of every movement of the enemy, as I shall thereby
be better enabled to form an opinion upon any appearances in
this quarter. I am etc.22 [n.y.h.s.]
"About as far north as Miami, Fla.
22In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] DEFENSE OF DOBBS FERRY 139
To THE OFFICER COMMANDING AT DOBBS FERRY
Head Quarters, Tappan, October 8, 1780.
Sir: In addition to the Continental troops under your com-
mand, I have directed Major Goetchius of the Jersey state
troops to send you from his corps a detachment of a subaltern
and twenty men to be periodically relieved; and for your
greater security to communicate with you and patrol the dif-
ferent landing places in your vicinity; but I would not have
you to rely upon this ; but take every precaution for your own
security. You will find covering within the works for your
whole party, of which you will mount a third part as a guard
every night; and keep small patroles all round you, so as not
however to weaken your command too much. You will keep
a vigilant look out towards the water by day and night; and
when you are furnished with a piece of cannon, should a fleet
be going up the river, you will announce it by firing five dis-
charges. I mean, by a fleet, such a number of vessels as may
indicate an attempt upon the posts above. You will fire three
pieces of cannon distinctly as a signal of a movement in force
against you, and you will send off an express instantly to Head
Quarters.
You will maintain the post to the last extremity should you
once find yourself surrounded, and for this purpose you will
endeavour always to have five or six days provision on hand;
but should you discover appearances of a serious attack in force
and with artillery time enough to withdraw your men you will
do it, spiking up your cannon and setting fire to the works, for
which you should make previous preparation. You will always
recollect, that should you be obliged to submit to superior force
after a vigorous resistance, you will do honor to yourself; but
140 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
should you be surprised, as it will denote a want of vigilance,
there can be no apology for it. But I rely intirely on your pru-
dence and bravery.
P. S. You will of course keep your instructions a secret.23
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Paramus, Sunday, October 8, 1780.
Parole Tadmor. Countersigns P., S.
Watchword Look about.
Brigadier General Huntington
Peters
For the day Tomorrow
Lieutenant Colonels » tt 11
'I!
Brigade Major Darby
If the weather is fair tomorrow the Army will march. The
order for marching the same as yesterday.
An officer from each brigade to be sent back this afternoon
on the road the Army marched to pick up stragglers and see
that the Waggons which maybe left in the rear are brought on.
Half the Pioneers and a company of Artificers are to parade
as soon as possible near General Glover's quarters. An officer
from each division will take charge of them, a serjeant from
each brigade for this duty. Colonel Tupper is requested to take
the direction of the whole and see that they repair the road
between this and Totowa bridge.
The officers commanding regiments are desired to see that
their mens Cartridge boxes and ammunition are dried this
afternoon.
AFTER ORDERS
The first Pennsylvania brigade will lead the column to mor-
row. The light Infantry will march about one mile in the rear.
23 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
1780] DESTRUCTION OF FENCES 141
A General court martial to sit at West point on Monday the
23d. Instant for the Trial of Colonel Sheldon, of the second regi-
ment of light dragoons. Colonel Hazen will preside, Lieutenant
Colonel Temple, Major Wylly, two Captains from the second
regiment of light dragoons, three Captains from the fourth,
and five Captains from the brigades of Infantry in the High-
lands are appointed Members.
All Witnesses and persons concerned will attend.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Monday, October 9, 1780.
Parole Paramus. Countersigns Perth, Pell.
Watchword Pracaness.
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel Wyllys
Lieutenant Colonel Mellen
Major Wallbridge
Brigade Major Pettingell
Colonel Moylan with his regiment of Cavalry will take
post near the little falls and Major Parr with his Corps at the
Notch; and both will patrole on the roads towards Newark
and Aququakanung.
The Marquis de la Fayette will post Major Lee's corps on
his left and take care of the Approaches to his incampment.
As the Army is incamped very conveniently for wood the
destruction of fences will be without excuse and must be pre-
vented at all events. The officers commanding divisions and
brigades are particularly requested to examine the present state
of them that they may be the better able to detect and punish
the offenders against this order. The General wishes also that
all possible care may be taken to prevent injury to the Fruit
For the day Tomorrow
142 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
trees in which he includes the Chesnut, many of which he has
seen cut down in order to come at the nuts.
The Marechausie will perform the duties of the Camp and
Captain Bedkins Corps will furnish orderlies to Head Quarters.
The Grand Parade is assigned for the present near the great
falls where the guards and Picquets are to parade at five o'clock
this afternoon.
The Troop to beat at eight o'clock 'till further orders and
the Guards to be on the Grand Parade at nine precisely.
# To BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
Bergen County in the State of N: Jersey,
October 9, 1780.24
Dear Sir: I was very much obliged by the letter which you
did me the honor to write me by our amiable young friend the
Marquis De La Fayette, whose exertions to serve this Country
in his own are additional proofs of his zealous attachment to
our cause, and has endeared him to us still more.
He came out flushed with expectations of a decisive cam-
paign and fired with hopes of acquiring fresh laurels, but in
both he has been disappointed; for we have been condemned
to an inactivity as inconsistent with the situation of our affairs
as with the ardor of his temper.
1 am sensible of all I owe you my Dear Sir for your senti-
ments of me, and while I am happy in your esteem, I cannot
but wish for occasions of giving you marks of mine.
The idea of making a tour together, which you suggest after
the War, would be one of the strongest motives I could have to
postpone my plan of retirement and make a visit to Europe,
if my domestic habits which seem to acquire strength from
2 The draft in the Washington Papers is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton, and
dated by Washington, October n. It is printed under date of October 1 1 by Ford.
1780] MONEY NEEDED 143
restraint did not tell me, I shall find it impossible to resist them
longer than my duty to the public calls for the sacrafice of my
inclinations.
I doubt not you are so fully informed by Congress of our
political and military State that it would be superfluous to trou-
ble you with any thing relating to either. If I were to speak on
topics of the kind it would be to shew that our present situation
makes one of two things essential to us. A Peace, or the most
vigorous aid of our Allies particularly in the article of money.
Of their disposition to serve us we cannot doubt; their generos-
ity will do every thing their means will permit.
With my best wishes for the preservation of your useful life
and for every happiness that can attend you which a sincere
attachment can dictate I am, etc. [n. j. h. s.]
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 10, 1780.
Dear Sir: I reed, yours of the 8th: from Verplanks Point. In-
closed is an extract from the General Orders of this day, you
will be pleased to have it communicated as expeditiously as
possible to the Corps at Kings ferry and to Colo. Sheldon's
Regiment, that the Returns called for may, if possible, be all
here by Saturday next. I am etc.25
To MAJOR JOHN KEESE26
Head Quarters, October 10, 1780.
Sir: It is His Excellency, the Commander in Chiefs wish
that the packet the Express brings, may reach His Excellency
25 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
26Assistant Deputy Quartermaster General at Kings Ferry. Harrison's draft is ad-
dressed to "Major Kearse," and the Varick transcript in the Library of Congress attrib-
utes the letter as sent to Capt. Edward William Kierse.
144 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
Count Rochambeau as soon as possible. The way however
thro Crompond it is feared is dangerous from the incursions
of the Enemy. You will therefore send the packet immediately
to Major Campbell27 at the Village with this Letter, who is
desired by the General to forward it without a moment's delay,
by a Trusty Express by the way of Frederic\sburgh and Dan-
bury, to Fairfield or Hartford, where he will fall in with the
Chain of Expresses, who are to proceed with the packet with
the greatest dispatch to Newport. I am &c.28
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL DUBUYSSON29
Head Quarters, Precaness, October 10, 1780.
Sir: I have received your several favours from Hillsborough,
Annapolis and Philada. I sincerely lament the loss of the
Baron de Kalb. The manner in which he died fully justified
the opinion which I ever entertained of him, and will endear
his memory to this Country.
The State of Virginia, sensible of the dangerous influence
which Governor Hamilton holds over the Indians, have abso-
lutely refused to exchange him on any terms, for the present
at least; and as I have never deviated from a Rule which I laid
down at the beginning of the War, of exchanging Officers in
course, according to the time of their captivity, I cannot, with-
out manifest injury to several Gentlemen of your Rank, who
have been prisoners more than three Years, propose your ex-
change in preference to theirs. I am glad to find that you your-
self seem aware of this difficulty, in your letter from Philada.
"Maj. John Campbell. He was Assistant Deputy Quartermaster General at the Con-
tinental village.
^The draft is in the writing of and is signed "Rob: H: Harrison."
MLieut. Col. Charles Francois Dubuysson des Aix. He was aide to De Kalb; after-
wards Vicomte Dubuysson; wounded and taken prisoner at Camden, S. C, in
August, 1780; exchanged and returned to France in 1782.
1780] CONVENTION TROOPS 145
Being bound by the terms of your parole to render yourself
at New York by a certain time, unless you effect an exchange,
I do not see how you can possibly avoid a compliance as soon
as the state of your wounds will admit of it. Sir Henry Clinton
may perhaps in consideration of your circumstances extend
your parole to Europe, as a similar indulgence has been allowed
to several Officers of the British Army, on account of their
health. This application can only be made to him, either per-
sonally, or by your informing him by letter of your arrival at
Philadelphia, and requesting liberty, on account of the pecu-
liarity of your situation, to go to France.30 I am etc.31
To GOVERNOR THOMAS JEFFERSON
Head Quarters, near Passaick Falls, October 10, 1780.
Sir: On Sunday Evening I had the honor to receive Your
Excellency's Letters of the 23d and 26th of last Month. I am
happy to find by the former and the Letter You were so
obliging as to forward from Colo Wood that the Convention
troops are now comfortably supplied. I hope this will be the
case and that the mode you have in contemplation to adopt
will answer your expectations. Colo Wood's conduct is highly
pleasing to me and merits the public esteem. It is such as
I fully expected. He has not himself suggested the most dis-
tant hint of his intentions to quit the post, or I should most
Strongly urge his continuance. I shall however in a Letter to
him of this date take occasion to mention his good conduct,
the services he has rendered, and those that will be derived
to the public from his continuing in the command.
'"Dubuysson wrote to Washington again (October 13) inclosing his letter to Sir
Henry Clinton, asking leave to go to France while on parole. Washington acknowl-
edged this in a brief note (October 17) that he would be happy to hear that Clinton
had granted Dubuysson's request. The draft of this letter is in the Washington Papers.
31 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
146 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
It gives me pleasure to hear that the New Levies are rendez-
vousing so generally. I fear they will be but too much wanted,
from the measures I think it highly probable the Enemy will
pursue this fall and Winter, especially during the latter, as they
will not be under any apprehension of the force we shall then
have in this quarter; and will be at liberty to make almost any
detachments they please. The dissolution of half our Army
last fall and Winter enabled them to make the Detachments
they did against Charles Town, which has involved so many
serious consequences, and the same cause will put them in a
condition to push their operations or at least to attempt it, in
the course of this, in the Southern States. While we persevere
in the system of short inlistments we shall experience misfor-
tune and disgrace, and ultimately, if it is persisted in we shall
most probably, lose the cause in which we are engaged. The
arrangement You intend of part of the Draughts for Colo Har-
rison's Regiment is perfectly agreeable and I think proper.
The matter did not occur to me, and if it had I should not have
thought myself at liberty to have directed the appropriation,
as I understand the Object of the Act, by which the Levies
were raised, was to apply them to filling or replacing the Regi-
ments of Infantry. It would be a most desirable thing, if we
had Magazines of Arms, Ammunition, Cloathing and Tents
formed as Your Excellency mentions, but unhappily this is not
the case, nor have we a Store of these essential Articles at any
point. A Letter I had the honor of addressing You on the nth
Septr will have informed You of our situation in these respects.
I am sorry to find that the Southern Army suffers for provi-
sion, and from the cause which contributes powerfully to our
Embarrassments here, the want of transportation. This is now
become a difficulty in our Affairs of the most serious considera-
tion, and our situation admitting of no alternative, I have been
1780] LACK OF SUPPLIES 147
obliged to use coercive measures, such as impresses, frequently
in the course of the Campaign, to enable me to move the Army
and to bring it Supplies. We are at this moment destitute of a
drop of Rum for the Soldiery, and cannot obtain some Blan-
kets we have at the Eastward, for want of transportation. As to
the provision supplies which You have procured, it would be
most eligible to keep them for Southern demands. This seems
to have been the intention of Congress by their Act of the 8th
Ulto, for forming Magazines of provision and forage for 15000
Men for 6 Months for the S. Army and directing Two thirds of
the quota of the flour and Beef, which had been required from
Maryland, to be retained for that purpose. I took the liberty in
my Letter of the nth of Septr. to recommend to Your Excel-
lency the removal of such as was collected on Navigable Rivers,
from the reports which I had then received that the Enemy
were about to embark troops and as some supposed for Vir-
ginia. As to the French fleet I don't think it probable that it
will winter in the Chesapeak. The Enemy have a superior
force to it in these seas and have held it blocked up ever since it
arrived. This circumstance, supposing other considerations
out of the question, would prevent the measure while it con-
tinues inferior.
I thank Your Excellency for the inclosures contained in
Your Letter of the 26th, which I have not received thro' any
other Channel. Lord Cornwallis's Letter establishes beyond
doubt, that his loss in the affair of the 16th of August was con-
siderable, tho his report with respect to ours is not admissible.
He seems determined to try what severity will do. I hope
sooner or later he will be stopped in his career and that the
rigorous policy he is pursuing will contribute to this.32 It would
32A copy of Cornwallis's letter dated August, 1780, to Lieut. Col. Nisbet Balfour,
by Robert Hanson Harrison, is in the Washington Papers. In it Cornwallis says:
"I have given Orders that all the Inhabitants of this province who have subscribed
148 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
appear from General Harrington's Letter33 as if the Enemy
had left Campden, but this seems highly improbable unless
they were advancing. The information of the Spaniards was
premature as to the captures they mentioned, or at least the
latest advices I have seen from the Havannah were silent about
them. The Count de Guichen has not appeared in this quarter
yet, tho he may have been on the Coast as they related. Your
Excellency's Letter with respect to Lt Govr Hamilton and
Major Hay34 gives the satisfaction I wished. I only wanted in-
formation on the point, that I might know how to conduct
myself with propriety and agreeable to the views of the State.
With respect to the reduction of Detroit, I have ever consid-
ered it as an event much to be desired, but we have never been
in circumstances to attempt it. This will be less the case the
ensuing Winter than at any period almost before, nor do I con-
ceive myself at liberty to say an expedition may be undertaken
against it in the manner You propose. As to powder our sup-
ply of this Article is very deficient. I was not able with all we
have and all I could borrow from the different States to make
up near a sufficiency for the operations intended against New
York, and must have depended much on our Allies for it, if
these had been prosecuted. If however Your Excellency should
determine to attempt the reduction of the post either at the ex-
pence of the State, or at that of the United States with the
and have taken part in this Revolt should be punished with the greatest rigour and
also those who will not turn out that they may be imprisoned and their whole prop-
erty taken from them or destroyed. I have likewise ordered that compensation should
be made out of their Estates to the persons who have been injured and oppressed by
them. I have ordered in the most positive manner that every Militia Man who has
borne Arms with us and afterwards joined the Enemy shall be immediately hanged.
I desire You will take the most rigorous measures to punish the Rebels in the district
in which You command and that You will obey in the strictest manner, the directions
I have given in this Letter relative to the Inhabitants of this Country."
33 Brig. Gen. W. H . Harrington, of the South Carolina Militia. A copy of his letter,
which is addressed to General Gates, and dated Sept. 16, 1780, is in the Washington
Papers.
MMaj. Adam Hayi
1780] ARNOLD AND ANDRt 149
consent of Congress, it is possible the quantity you may have
occasion for may be spared, if it is not too great and the means
of transportation can be procured.
Your Excellency will have heard probably before this reaches
You, of the perfidy of Major General Arnold. On the 25th of
Septr he went to the Enemy. He had entered very deeply into
a combination with them, as far as we can judge, for putting
them in possession of the important post of West point, where
he commanded and the command of which he had solicited.
For this purpose he had contrived an interview with Major
Andre Adjutant General to their Army, on the night of the
2 1 st and delivered to him, A Copy of a State of matters I had
laid before a Council of Genl Officers the 6th of Septr. An Esti-
mate of the force at West point and its Dependencies; of Men
to man the Works at West point. Remarks on those Works.
A Return of Ordnance at West point and its Dependencies.
Artillery orders for the disposition of the Corps in case of an
alarm at West point. A permit to Major Andre, under the
assumed name of John Anderson to pass our Guards. This
Officer with all those papers in Arnold's hand writing, was
taken by a most extraordinary and providential intervention
of circumstances, under the assumed name of John Anderson
and in a disguised habit, about Fifteen miles from the Enemy's
Outpost at King's bridge, by a small Militia patrol, who acted
with great virtue upon the occasion, as he was returning to
New York; having been all the night of the 21st and next day
in the vicinity of our posts at Stony and Verplanks points, and
passed by them the night preceding his capture. Arnold got
information of the event on the morning of the 25th before it
was known to any of the Officers under his command or any in
authority and pushed down the River in a barge to the Vulture
Sloop of War, which lay a few miles below Stony Point. Major
150 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
Andre was tried by a Board of General Officers, and on his free
and voluntary confession and Letters, was sentenced to suffer
death, agreeable to the practice and usage of Nations in like
cases, which he has accordingly suffered. He acted with great
candor after he avowed himself untill he was executed. Your
Excellency will probably see the whole of the proceedings in
his case published. We have no doubt now, whatever may be
the future Objects and measures of the Enemy, that the pri-
mary and principal design of the embarkation they were mak-
ing, was to take West point, which through the preconcerted
arrangements between them and Mr Arnold, in all human
probability, would have inevitably fallen into their hands and
most likely in the course of a few days after the discovery. The
Enemy have not laid aside from the accounts I continue to re-
ceive, their preparations for an expedition, and must now
mean to make a push in some other more remote quarter.
Hence Your Excellency will perceive that they leave nothing
unessayed to carry their point; but I trust there are more than
abundant virtue, as well as means in our hands, if these are
properly directed, to withstand and baffle easily all their most
vigorous and artful efforts. I have the honor etc.30
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 10, 1780.
Sir: I have duly received your Excellency's favours of the
25th. and 30th. and am much obliged to you for the differ-
ent informations you do me the honor to communicate. We
have to regret that this campaign has not been productive of
such important advantages as we had reason to natter our-
selves; but we must hope for better successes the next. The
35 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
1780] ANDRE'S FATE 151
operation of the Spaniards in the floridas will be an useful di-
version to the Southern states, if it can be vigorously prose-
cuted; but I confess, while the enemy have a naval superiority
in America, I am not sanguine about any enterprise, which is
connected with maritime dispositions.
I intirely approve of the detention of Greene's regiment, and
I entreat you to keep it as long as you think its services can be
interesting.
Your Excellency will have heard of the execution of the
British Adjutant General. The circumstances he was taken in
justified it and policy required a sacrifice; but as he was more
unfortunate than criminal in the affair, and as there was much
in his character to interest, while we yielded to the necessity of
rigor, we could not but lament it. I have detached two divi-
sions of the army to West Point and removed the remainder to
this post, at a greater distance from the enemy. With every
sentiment etc.36
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Tuesday, October 10, 1780.
Parole Albany. Countersigns Alps, Arr.
Watchword, Franklin.
Brigadier General Patterson
Colonel Bailey
Lieutenant Colonel Basset
Major Maxwell
Brigade Major Woodbridge
The General Court martial whereof Colonel Jackson is
President, to sit tomorrow morning Ten o'clock at a house
near Totowa bridge.
36 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
For the day Tomorrow
152 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
The Commander in Chief desires that the Colonels and Of-
ficers commanding regiments in the several state lines will by
Saturday next without fail make returns to the Adjutant Gen-
eral of the men in their respective regiments designating by
Columns how many are engaged for the War; and how many
of these are actually present; how many on command, extra
service and in hospitals and where. The officers will be as ac-
curate as possible in this and will return no men about whom
they have not received certain recent Accounts.
They will also designate by monthly columns extending the
Columns to July next the proportion of men in each Month
whose services will expire.
The Colonels and Commanding officers of regiments of Ar-
tillery Cavalry and of all other Regiments and Corps not com-
prehended in State lines are to make a similar return in which
they are also to designate the particular States to which their
men belong and the Proportion of each.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Wednesday, October n, 1780.
Parole Cape Ann. Countersigns L., E.
Watchword Order.
Brigadier General Wayne
Colonel Greaton
Lieutenant Colonel Littlefield
Major Winslow
Brigade Major Oliver
Twenty two waggoners to be draughted from the line to be
sent to the grand parade tomorrow at guard mounting.
As the soldiers have begun to build chimneys to their tents
the General desires that the commanding officers of regiments
For the day Tomorrow
1780] TRIAL OF OFFICERS 153
and companies will be particularly attentive in seeing that the
funnels are raised so much above the ridge pole of the Tents to
prevent damage from the fire or smoke which heretofore has
been very injurious to the Tents of the Army.
Major Parr's corps of riflemen are permitted to try their
rifles between the hours of three and five P. M.
At the General Court Martial whereof Colonel Henry Jack-
son is president the 25th. ulto. Captain Andrew Porter of the
Artillery was Tried for "Falsely and Maliciously misrepre-
senting the conduct of Colonel Thomas Procter as an officer
in saying he discharged soldiers of his regiment for his private
gain thereby defrauding the United States and from the same
false and malicious views did say that he had not more than
thirty or forty men in his said regiment on the Western expe-
dition under General Sullivan and for conduct unbecoming
an officer and a Gentleman towards Colonel Procter in the
above mentioned instances."
The Court are of opinion that Captain Porter is Not Guilty
of either of the charges against him and do acquit him.
At the same Court was tried Captain Daniel Pendleton37 of
the regiment of Artificers for "Defrauding the United States
in the following instances: First for dating men back from the
time of their inlistments.
Second, for discharging two men, one of which was a de-
serter from his company and the other had never joined; and
taking money for said discharges and returning others in their
room that were inlisted by his serjeant who were strangers to
the matter. Also for keeping such bounties encouragement,
and wages from September 1777 to February 1778 for his
own use.
rOf Baldwin's Artillery Artificer regiment. He served to May, 1781.
154 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
Thirdly, for leaving at Croton as a pledge for his reckoning
some Spades, ordered by Major Forsyth to be carried from
Kingsferry to White Plains."
The Court are of opinion that the facts contained in the
first Charge, and first part of the second charge against Cap-
tain Pendleton are supported; but from the Evidence in the
case it appears that Captain Pendleton's conduct in some in-
stances arose from a mistaken Zeal to serve the public, and in
others from an erroneous judgement; they therefore acquit
Captain Pendleton of defrauding the United States in either
Case tho' they think his conduct highly reprehensible; it ap-
pears to the court on the latter part of the second charge that
Captain Pendleton has not kept the bounties, that he has kept
part of the wages drawn in the names of Barnes and Hooker
for his own use, but by their consent, but he is Not Guilty of
defrauding the United States in this instance.
The Court find the third Charge not supported and entirely
groundless.
Mr. John Christie, Forage master to General Clinton's
brigade, was likewise tried at the same court for "Giving
Certificates for a number of Horses more than he had, to the
inhabitants of Schralenberg.
The Court are of opinion that Mr. Christie is Not Guilty of
the Charge.
The Commander in Chief confirms the aforegoing opinions
of the Court. Captains Porter and Pendleton and Forage Mas-
ter Christie are released from Arrest.
*To ROBERT MORRIS
Passaic Falls, October n, 1780.
Dear Sir: I am happy to inform you, that the business to
which I am indebted for your favor of the 28th. Ulto., was
1780] CONVENTION TROOPS 155
effected previous to the receipt of your letter. Mr. Elliot38 had
applied thro' Mr. Izard,39 forCaptn.Mure's40 parole, which was
immediately granted, and orders given to the Commissary of
Prisoners to signify the same to him. I make no doubt there-
fore, but that he is, by this time, either in New York or up on
his way thither.
It will ever give me pleasure to contribute to the comfort or
convenience of any Gentleman on whose behalf you interest
yourself, when I can do it with propriety, on other terms I am
convinced you wd. not ask it. I am with Complimts. to Mrs.
Morris Dear Sir Yr. etc. [h.l.]
To COLONEL JAMES WOOD
Head Quarters, Prekaness, New Jersey, October n, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received your favors of the 25th: Augt. and
21st: of September. I am pleased to find by the last, that your
supplies had been more regular for some time, and that you
had prospects of keeping them up.
I never entertained the least doubt of your care and attention
to the business committed to your charge, or supposed that the
distresses of the troops of Convention on the score of provision
were in any degree owing to your want of proper exertions.
Had such a thought ever existed, I should have altered my
opinion on receiving letters upon the subject from His Excel-
lency Governor Jefferson, and from Brig. Genl. Hamilton,
who both speak of your conduct in the most favorable manner,
and attribute the good order and temper which prevailed
among the troops during the time of their distress to your
^Andrew Elliot. He was Royal Chief Justice and Lieutenant Governor of New
York.
39 Ralph Izard.
40Capt. William Muir (Mure), of the Eighty-second Foot, British Army.
156 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
prudent and conciliating management. This intitles you to my
warmest thanks.
Your command, from the nature of it, cannot be the most
agreeable at any rate, much less so when attended by a variety
of perplexities; and you may therefore have a wish of being
relieved this Winter. Should this be your inclination, I could
not with propriety in common cases object to it, as no Officer
ought to have more than his share of any duty imposed upon
him; but when it is considered how essential your services are
in your present station; how difficult it is to find persons capa-
ble of conducting matters properly in the deranged state of all
our departments, and how much better you are qualified, from
an acquaintance with the business, than a stranger; to say noth-
ing of the agreeable light in which you stand with the Officers
of Convention, which will add not a little to the relief of any
difficulties which may occur, you must excuse me for request-
ing your continuance at least a while longer. An exchange of
the troops may possibly take place, or the mode of supplies
may be put upon such a footing as to render your presence of
less importance.
We have never made the least difficulty of exchanging the
Officers of the troops of Convention, on the contrary we have
ever endeavoured to accomplish it. If therefore Brig: Genl.
Spetch41 can make interest with Sir Henry Clinton, I shall
without hesitation agree to his exchange for an officer of equal
Rank.
Be pleased to inform Genl. Hamilton that I forwarded the
letters inclosed in his of the 24th. Augt. as I shall do that in-
closed in your last. I am etc.42
41 Brig. Gen. J. F. von Specht, of the Hessian allied troops.
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] TEMPER OF THE ARMY 157
* To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, October n, 1780.
Sir: Three days since, I received your Excellency's Letter of
the 4th with the inclosed Resolutions,43 which, as the Army
was in motion to this Post, I had it not in my power to answer
before. I am much obliged to Congress for the honor they do
me by the fresh mark of their attention and confidence con-
ferred upon me in the reference they have been pleased to
make. My wish to concur in sentiment with them, and a con-
viction that there is no time to be lost in carrying the measures
relative to the Army into execution, make me reluctantly offer
any objections to the plan that has been adopted; but a sense
of what I owe to Congress and a regard to consistency will
not permit me to suppress the difference of opinion, which
happens to exist upon the present occasion, on points that ap-
pear to me far from unessential. In expressing it, I can only
repeat the ideas which I have more than once taken the liberty
to urge.
That there are the most conclusive reasons for reducing the
number of Regiments no person acquainted with the situation
of our affairs and the state of the Army will deny. A want of
officers independant of other considerations were sufficient to
compel us [to it].44 But that the temper of the Army produced
by its sufferings requires great caution, in any reforms that are
attempted, is a position not less evident than the former. In
Services the best established, where the hands of Government
"The letter from the President of Congress of October 4 inclosed the resolve of
October 3, which made a new arrangement of the Continental Army. The President
wrote: "You will please to observe, that, if in your Opinion there shall appear no
material Objection to this Plan of Arrangement, it is the Pleasure of Congress that
the same be carried into immediate Effect." (See General Orders, Nov. 1, 1780.)
"The words in brackets have been inserted by an unidentified hand.
158 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
are strengthened, by the strongest interests of the Army to
submission, the reducing of its regiments and dismissing a
great part of its Officers is always a measure of delicacy and
difficulty. In ours, where the Officers are held by the feeblest
ties and are mouldering away by dayly resignations, it is pecul-
iarly so. The last reduction occasioned many to quit the Serv-
ice besides those who were reformed, and left durable seeds
of discontent among those who remained. The general topic of
declamation was, that it was as hard as dishonorable for men,
who had made every sacrifice to the Service to be turned out
of it at the pleasure of those in power without any adequate
compensation. In the maturity to which their uneasinesses have
now risen from a continuance in misery, they will be still more
impatient under an attempt of a similar nature; how far these
dispositions may be reasonable I pretend not to decide but
in the extremity to which we are arrived policy forbids us to
add new irritations. Too many of the Officers wish to get rid
of their Commissions; but they are unwilling to be forced
into it.
It is not the intention of these remarks to discourage a re-
form; but to shew the necessity of guarding against the ill
effects by an ample provision both for the Officers who stay
and for those who are reduced. This should be the basis of
the plan and without it I apprehend the most mischievous
consequences, this would obviate many scruples that will oth-
erwise be found prejudicial in the extreme. I am convinced
Congress are not a little straitened in the means of a present
provision so ample as to give satisfaction; but this proves the ex-
pediency of a future one; and brings me to that which I have
so frequently recommended as the most ceconomical, the most
politic and the most effectual that could be devised. A half
pay for Life. Supported by a prospect of a permanent [in]
1780] HALF PAY 159
dependence, the Officers would be tied to the Service and would
submit to many momentary privations and to the inconven-
iences which the situation of public affairs makes unavoid-
able; this is exemplified in the Pensylvania Officers, who being
upon this establishment are so much interested in the Service,
that in the course of [five]45 Months, there has been only one
resignation in that line.
If the objection drawn from the principle of this measure
being incompatible with the genious of our government is
thought insurmountable, I would propose a substitute less
eligible in my opinion, but which may answer the purpose;
it is to make the present half pay for Seven years whole pay
for the same period to be advanced in two different payments,
one half in a year after the conclusion of peace the other half
in two years subsequent to the first. It will be well to have it
clearly understood that the reduced Officers are to have the de-
preciation of their pay made good, lest any doubt should arise
on this head.
No objection occurs to me, to this measure, except it be
thought too great an expence; but in my judgment whatever
can give consistency to our military establishment will be ulti-
mately favourable to ceconomy. It is not easy to be conceived
except by those who are witnesses to it what an additional
waste and consumption of every thing and consequently what
an increase of expence, results from the laxness of discipline
in the Army, and where [the]45 Officers think they are doing
the public a favor by holding their Commissions and the men
are continually fluctuating it is impossible to maintain disci-
pline. Nothing can be more obvious than that a sound Military
establishment and the interests of ceconomy are the same. How
45 The words in brackets are inserted in an unidentified hand.
160 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
much more the purposes of the War will be promoted by it in
other respects will not admit of an argument.
In reasoning upon the measure of a future provision I have
heard Gentlemen object the want of it in some foreign Armies,
without adverting to the difference of circumstances. The Mili-
tary state holds the first rank in most of the Countries of Europe
and is the road to honor and emolument; the establishment is
permanent, and whatever be an Officer's provision it is for life,
and he has a profession for life. He has future as well as pres-
ent motives of Military honor and preferment, He is attached
to the Service by the spirit of the Government; By education
and in most cases by early habit; his present condition if not
splendid is comfortable, Pensions, distinctions, and particular
priviledges are commonly his rewards in retirement. In the
case of the American Officers the Military character has been
suddenly taken up and is to end with the War.
The number of Regiments fixed upon by Congress is that
which I should have wished; but I think the agregate number
of men too small. Should the Regiments be compleated, mak-
ing the usual deductions for casualties and not counting upon
the three Regiments of South Carolina and Georgia we should
not have in the Infantry above 18000 fighting men ran\ and
file; from wch when we should have taken the garrison of
West point and the different garrisons for the frontier, there
would remain a force not equal even to a vigorous defensive;
Intirely unequal to a decisive co-operation with our Allies,
should their efforts next campaign be directed this way, as we
have reason to hope. I confess too that I do not expect the States
will complete their Regiments at whatever point they may be
placed; if they are any thing near being full they will be apt
to think the difference not material, without considering that
what may be small in their quota will be very considerable in
1780] STRENGTH OF THE ARMY 161
the aggregate of deficiencies, in a force originally calculated
too low for our exigencies.
The enemy's whole embodied force of Infantry in these
States (without speaking of the occasional aids of Militia) on
a moderate estimate must amount to between Eighteen and
twenty thousand fighting men. We ought on no scale of rea-
soning to have less than an equal number in the field (exclusive
of all garrisons) for a vigorous defensive. Let us then state our
R and file
armies in the field at 18000
West point for complt. secury. reqs 2500
Fort Schuyler fort Pitt and other frontier Posts require . 1500
22000
By this calculation two and twenty thousand fighting men
appear to be necessary on a defensive plan, to have which our
total number must be thirty thousand rank and file. The Wag-
goners, Workmen at factories, Waiters, Men for other extra
Services, Sick &ca. on an average make at least a fourth of the
total numbers; which Congress may see by recurring to the re-
turns of the Army from time to time.
Much less should we hesitate to exert ourselves to have this
number, if we have any thoughts of recovering what we have
lost. As to the abilities of the Country to maintain them, I am of
opinion, they will be found adequate; and that they will be less
strained, than they have heretofore been from the necessity we
have been so frequently under of recurring to the aid of Militia.
It is my duty also to inform Congress that in the late con-
ference with the French General and Admiral, though I could
not give assurances, I was obliged to give an opinion of the force
we might have the next Campaign; and I stated the Army in
this quarter at fifteen thousand operative Continental Troops,
wch will greatly exceed that which we should have by the
162 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
proposed arrangement for it would not give us above Eleven.
On this idea of fifteen thousand a memorial with a plan for
next campaign has been transmitted to the Court of France.
I would therefore beg leave to propose that each Regiment
of Infantry should consist of One Colonel, where the present
Colonels are continued, or One Lieutt. Colonel Commandant;
Two Majors, a first and Second; Nine Captains; Twenty two
Subalterns; i Surgeon; i Mate; i Serjeant Major; i Qr. Mr.
Serjeant; 45 Serjeants; iDrumMajor; iFifeMajor; ioDrums;
10 Fifers; 612 Rank and file.
Fifty Regiments at 612 rank and file each will amount to
30,600 rank and file, the force I have stated to be requisite.
The number of Officers to a regiment by our present establish-
ment has been found insufficient. It is not only inconvenient
and productive of irregularity in our formation and Manoeu-
vres; but the number taken for the different Offices of the Staff
leaves the regiments destitute of Field Officers and the Com-
panies so unprovided that they are obliged to be entrusted to
the care of Serjeants and Corporals which soon ruins them. To
obviate this I ask three field Officers to a Regimt; and, besides
a Captain and two Subalterns to do the duties of each Com-
pany, three Supernumerary Subalterns as Paymaster, Adjutant
and Quarter Master and one to reside in the State as a recruiting
Officer. Officers continually employed in this way to improve
every oppertunity that offered would engage men; while those
who were occasionally detached for a short space of time would
do nothing. I ask one Drum and fife extraordinary to attend
this Officer. The supernumeraries to rank and rise in the Reg-
iment with the other Officers. Three field Officers will be
thought necessary, when we consider the great porportion
employed as Adjutant General, Inspectors, Brigade Majrs.,
Waggon Master, Superintendents of Hospitals &ca. In addi-
tion to which I would also propose a field Officer to reside in
1780] CAVALRY 163
each State where the number of its regiments exceed two, and
a Captain where it does not to direct the Recruiting Service
and transact all business for the line to which he belongs with
the State, which I think would be a very useful institution.
Instead of Regiments of Cavalry, I would recommend Le-
gionary Corps which should consist of four Troops of Mounted
Dragoons of 60 each 240
Two of dismounted Do at Do 120
360, with
the same number of Comd. and Non Comd. Officers as at pres-
ent. To make the Regiments larger will be attended with an
excessive expence to purchase the horses in the first instance
and to subsist them afterwards. And I think the augmentation
though it would be useful, not essential. I prefer Legionary
Corps because the kind of Service we have for horse almost
constantly requires the aid of Infantry; in quarters, as they
are commonly obliged to be remote from the Army for the
benefit of forage it is indispensable for their security; and to
attach to them Infantry drawn from the Regiments has many
inconveniences.
Besides the four Regiments I cannot forbear recommending
that two partizan Corps may be kept up Commanded by Colo.
Armand and Major Lee. Tho' in general I dislike independant
Corps, I think a Partizan Corps with an Army useful in many
respects. Its name and destination stimulate to enterprize ; and
the two Officers I have mentioned have the best claims to public
attention. Colonel Armand is an Officer of great merit wch.
added to his being a foreigner, to his rank in life, and to the
sacrifices of property he has made renders it a point of delicacy
as well as justice to continue to him the means of serving hon-
orably. Major Lee has rendered such distinguished Services
and possesses so many Talents for commanding a Corps of this
164 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
nature, he deserves so much credit for the perfection in which
he has kept his Corps, as well as for the handsome exploits he
has performed, that it would be a loss to the Service and a dis-
couragement to merit to reduce him. And I do not see how he
can be introduced into one of the Regiments in a manner satis-
factory to himself and which will enable him to be equally
useful, without giving too much disgust to the whole line of
Cavalry. The Partizan Corps may consist of three Troops
of Mounted Dragoons of fifty each 150
3 ditto of dismted. Do 50 ea 150
300
I would only propose one alteration in the proposed arrange-
ment of Artillery, which is to have ten companies instead of
Nine. The numerous demands of the Service have made the es-
tablishment of Companies hitherto not too great; and it would
be injurious to diminish them materially. Nine Companies
would be an irregular formation for a battalion of Artillery;
and eight would be much too few : this makes me wish they
may be fixed at Ten. The formation of nine Companies in the
Infantry is with a view to one light Company to act seperately.
I sincerely wish Congress had been pleased to make no alter-
native in the term of Service but had confined it to the War,
by inlistment draft or assessment as might be found necessary.
On the footing upon which their requisition now stands we
shall be certain of getting very few men for the War; and must
continue to feel all the evils of temporary engagements. In the
present humour of the States, I should entertain the most flat-
tering hopes that they would enter upon vigorous measures to
raise an army for the War, if Congress appeared decided on
the point; but if they hold up a different idea as admissible,
it will be again concluded, that they do not consider an Army
for the War as essential; and this will encourage the opposition
1780] REDUCTION OF REGIMENTS 165
of Men of narrow, interested and feeble tempers, and enable
them to defeat the primary object of the Resolution. Indeed
if the mode by inlistment is the only one made use of to pro-
cure the men, it must necessarily fail.46 In my letter of the 20th.
of August I say "any period short of a year is inadmissible";
but all my observations tend to prove the pernicious operation
of engaging Men for any term short of the War, and the alter-
native is only on the supposition that the other should on expe-
riment be found impracticable. But I regard it as of the highest
importance, that the experiment should first be fairly tried ; the
alternative, if absolutely necessary, can be substituted hereafter.
The encouragemt. to the Officer and the bounty to the recruit
are both too small in the present state of things unless the latter
could be in specie, which it is probable would have a powerful
influence. In case of recruits made in Camp no bounty is speci-
fied; it will be necessary here as well as in the Country, with
this additional reason that a recruit made in the Army will be
more valuable than one made in the Country.
I must confess also it would have given me infinite pleasure
that Congress had thought proper to take the reduction and
incorporation of the Regiments under their own direction.
The mode of leaving it to the States is contrary to my Sen-
timents, because it is an adherence to the State system, and
because I fear it will be productive of great confusion and dis-
content and it is requisite the business in contemplation should
be conducted with the greatest circumspection. I fear also the
professing to select the Officers retained in Service will give
disgust, both to those who go and to those who remain; the
former will be sent away under the public stigma of infe-
rior merit and the latter will feel no pleasure in a present
^At this point in the draft, which is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton, the fol-
lowing is crossed out: "and to me it appears it will be next to impossible for the
country to maintain its liberties under the repetition of the enormous expence of
annual engagements."
166 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
preference, when they reflect that at some future period they
may experience a similar fate. I barely mention this as I am per-
swaded Congress did not advert to the operation of the expres-
sions made use of, and will readily alter them.
I beg leave to remark before I conclude, that if Congress
should be pleased to reconsider their Resolutions, it will be of
the greatest moment that the number of men and term for
wch. they are to be raised should be first determined and the
requisitions transmitted to the several States. In this Article
time presses; the others may be examined more at leizure,
though it is very necessary the whole should be put into execu-
tion as speedily as possible.
To accelerate the business I have directed, agreeable to the
tenor of the resolution returns to be immediately made which
shall be without delay transmitted to the States to shew them
at one view the force they have and the deficiencies for which
they will have to provide, the moment they know the quotas
respectively required of them. With the highest respect etc.
P. S. In the establishment I submit, I mention two Subal-
terns to each Company; as we have few Ensigns, they must in
general be both Lieutenants but in future appointments, there
ought to be one Lieutenant and one Ensign as heretofore.
Congress will herewith receive a list of the Officers in New
Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jer-
sey, Pensylvania and Maryland line (previous to its Marching
to the Southward). Also in Crane's and Lamb's Artillery,
Sheldons Horse, and in Hazens, Sherburne's, Spencers and
Livingstons Regiments who have actually had their resigna-
tions entered at Head Qrs. in the course of this Year, and who
in general urged their necessities when they applied on the
subject, and insisted, notwithstanding every persuasion to in-
duce their continuance, that their circumstances would not
admit of their remaining in Service longer. Besides these
1780] NEW ESTABLISHMENT 167
resignations there are a great many of which I have no certain
account as the Officers being permitted to go home on furlough
in the course of the Winter, have never rejoined the Army,
and have only sent messages or written to their Regimental
Officers that their own distresses and those of their families
would not permit their return. As to the resignations which
may have taken place in the Virginia line and the other Troops
at the Southward since they were acting in that quarter, I have
no account of them; but I make no doubt that many have hap-
pened. All these serve to shew the necessity of some more
competent establishment than the present one, and I hold it
my duty to mention, from the accts. I daily receive, unless this
is the case, that I have strong reasons to believe we shall not
be able to retain after the end of the Campaign, as many Offi-
cers, especially in some lines, as will be even sufficient for com-
mon duties when in Quarters. If matters fortunately should
not proceed to the lengths my fears forebode, yet Congress
will be sensible at the first view, of the injuries and great in-
conveniences which must attend such a continual change of
Officers and consequent promotions which are and will be
inevitable.
After having exhibited this view of the present State of the
Army it is almost needless to add, that excepting in the rank
of Field Officers and a very few Captains we shall have new
Officers to provide rather than old ones to disband at the reduc-
tion of Regiments, and where they are to be had I know not,
no disposition having been discovered of late to enter the Serv-
ice. Congress have little to apprehend therefore on acct. of
the expence of Supernumerary Officers when this event takes
place. I am &c.47
47 The letter was read in Congress on October 16 and referred to the committee on
Washington's letter of August 20, together with the plan of arrangement according
to the resolve of Congress of October 3. (See Journals of the Continental Congress,
Oct. 21, 1780, for the plan finally adopted, which embodied Washington's ideas.)
168 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
To MRS. MARY LEE48
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October n, 1780.
Madam : I am honored with your Letter of the 27th. of Septr.
and cannot forbear taking the earliest moment to express the
high sense I entertain of the patriotic exertions of the Ladies of
Maryland in favor of the Army.
In answer to your enquiry respecting the disposal of the Gra-
tuity, I must take the liberty to observe ; that it appears to me,
the Money which has been, or may be collected, cannot be
expended in so eligible and beneficial a manner, as in the pur-
chase of [Shirts and Stocks (black)] for the use of the troops
in the Southern Army.
The polite offer you are pleased to make of your further
assistance in the execution of this liberal design, and the gen-
erous disposition of the Ladies, insure me of its success, and
cannot fail to entitle both yourself and them, to the warmest
gratitude of those who are the objects of it. I am &c.49
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Thursday, October 12, 1780.
Parole Rariton. Countersigns Ross, Rice.
Watchword Resolution.
Brigadier General Huntingdon
Colonel Nixon
For the Day Tomorrow ' Lieutenant Colonel Vose
Major Chapman
Brigade Major Ashley
48 Wife of Gov. Thomas Sim Lee.
49 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys. The words in brackets are in
the writing of Washington.
1780] OVENS AND BREAD 169
Two Subs two Serjeants and forty rank and file for fatigue
tomorrow, furnished with two days provision to repair the
roads and bridges.
A Collier from each brigade to be employed under the
direction of Colonel Baldwin while the Army remains in its
present position.
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 12, 1780.
Sir: This will be delivered you by Mr Ludwick50 Baker Genl.
who is instructed by Col Stewart Commissary Genl of Issues to
repair to West Point and erect as many ovens at that Post as are
equal to a daily supply of Six or eight thousand pounds of
Bread, exclusive of one to be appropriated solely to the purpose
of baking Biscuit; he is also ordered to erect one oven at Stoney
Point for the supply of the Troops there and at Verplanks.
I fully approve Col Stewarts instructions on this head, and
earnestly intreat your attention to immediate complition of
them. I am &c.51 [ms.h.s.]
To COLONEL HENRY NEILL52
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 12, 1780.
Sir: As there is no immediate occasion for the further services
of Your Regt. of Militia with the Army it may commence its
return to the State of Delaware as soon as all the Arms, Ac-
coutrements, and Camp Equipage drawn from the Public are
returned to the Commissary of Military Stores and Quarter
Master at Camp.
60 Christopher Ludowick. He was Baker General of the Continental Army.
51 The draft is in the writing of Richard Kidder Meade.
62 Of the Delaware Militia regiment.
170 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
You will then apply to the Quarter Master General for Tools
necessary to repair the Roads from hence to Trenton, and re-
ceive his instructions on the subject. As you will give your own
receipt for the Tools, you will be pleased to see them deliv-
ered to the Quarter Master at Trenton and take his Receipt for
the same. Any Arms, Accoutrements &c. which may have been
carried off by the Sick, or Deserters you will also use your
endeavours to have recovered and returned into the Public.
After the before mentioned service is performed, the Regi-
ment is to be discharged ; and I have nothing further to add,
but to request that my thanks may be communicated to them
for the alacrity and spirit with which they took the Field,
and their orderly and Soldierlike behaviour while in service.
I am etc.53
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters, October 12, 1780.
Gentn: I beg leave to inclose you the Commissions of Lts.
Emerson" and Baxton55 of the nth Massachusetts Regiment
which it seems are wrong. Mr Emerson is intitled to rank,
it is reported, from the 7th of November 1777 and Mr Bax-
ton also as a Lieutenant from the same date. It seems unfor-
tunately that there are many Errors in the Captains and Inferior
Officers Commissions in this line, occasioned by the inattention
and inaccuracy of the Regimental Lists which were laid be-
fore the Board that arranged it, and which must be rectified,
when the circumstances of the campaign will permit.
63 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
"Lieut. Nehemiah Emerson, of the Eleventh Massachusetts Regiment. He was
appointed captain in October, 1780; transferred to the Tenth Massachusetts Regiment
in January, 1781; retired in January, 1783.
"Lieut. James Buxton (Baxton), of the Fifteenth Massachusetts Regiment. He was
made captain-lieutenant in October, 1780; captain, and transferred to the Tenth
Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1781; retired in January, 1783.
1780] COMMISSIONS 171
I beg leave to inform the Board that the Officers of Colo. H.
Jackson's Regiment are very uneasy at not having received
their Commissions and are applying for them almost every day.
The arrangement of them was transmitted with that of Webb's
and Moylan's Regiments, the Officers of both which have long
since received theirs. This I find encreases not a little, the im-
portunities of the Officers in Jackson's, who for want of their's
are doing duty in many instances under Officers whom they
would command. There are several other Officers in the Mas-
sachusetts and Connecticut lines, who make daily inquiries
at Head Quarters about Commissions and who say their War-
rants or Certificates from their States, have been forwarded a
considerable time to the Board and who have requested that
I would communicate their anxiety and the inconveniences
they experience for want of them. Whatever delays may have
taken place in the business, I am persuaded have been such as
the Board could not prevent, which has been suggested to the
parties; but their applications are so frequent and so pressing
that I am led to hope circumstances will admit the Commis-
sions being forwarded by an early opportunity. I have the
Honor etc.
P. S. I retain the Commissions mentioned above and will
make the alterations a subject of inquiry by a Board of Officers
I will appoint to examine the other Errors said to exist in the
line of Captains and Inferior Officers.56
To MAJOR GENERAL ROBERT HOWE
Head Quarters, October 12, 1780.
Dear Sir : I have reed, your favor of the 10th : respecting the
payment for the Rum seized by your order. Since I saw you
I am informed there is a Resolve of Congress, which I have not
06 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
172 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
seen, pointing out a mode of payment with interest and I think
making allowance for depreciation, if any.57 The first time I
see the Commy. General, I will make the necessary inquiry
and inform you more fully. I am &c.58
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, Preckaness, October 12, 1780.
Sir: Your Excellency's letter of the 5th. did not arrive 'till
late last evening. I agree in opinion with you on the utility of
asking to have your present park doubled ; but I think this will
suffice. Though we are not well provided with seige artillery,
we shall be able to supply the deficiency.
We are again told of an embarkation at New York on the
point of sailing; the number is not ascertained; but the em-
barkation does not appear to be general. So soon as I obtain
particulars and with certainty, I shall do myself the honor to
transmit them to you.
I had the pleasure of writing to you the 10th.; by the same
opportunity went some important dispatches from the Mar-
quis de la Fayette for France. With greatest regard, I am &c.
P. S. I have just received the inclosed curious Performance
the completion of Arnolds Disgrace,59 which I send for Your
Amusement.60
*To LIEUTENANT COLONEL JOHN LAURENS
Hd. Qrs., Passaic Falls, October 13, 1780.
My dear Laurens: Your friendly and Affectione. letter of
the 4th. came to my hands on the 10th. and would have been
"See Journals of the Continental Congress, Aug. 26, 1780.
68 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
B9The inclosure was, presumably, a copy of Arnold's letter of Oct. 1, 1780, to Wash-
ington, resigning his commission in the American Army.
""The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton; the P. S. is in that of Richard
Varick.
1780] ARNOLD'S CHARACTER 173
acknowledged yesterday by the Baron de Steuben but for some
important business I was preparing for Congress.
In no instance since the commencement of the War has the
interposition of Providence appeared more conspicuous than
in the rescue of the Post and Garrison of West point from
Arnolds villainous perfidy. How far he meant to involve me
in the catastrophe of this place does not appear by any indubi-
table evidence, and I am rather inclined to think he did not
wish to hazard the more important object of his treachery by
attempting to combine two events the lesser of which might
have marred the greater.61 A combination of extraordinary
circumstances. An unaccountable deprivation of presence of
Mind in a man of the first abilities, and the virtuous conduct
of three Militia men, threw the Adjutant General of the Brit-
ish forces in America (with full proofs of Arnolds treachery)
into our hands; and but for the egregious folly, or the bewil-
dered conception of Lieutt. Colo. Jameson who seemed lost
in astonishment and not to have known what he was doing
I should as certainly have got Arnold. Andre has met his fate,
and with that fortitude which was to be expected from an
accomplished man, and gallant Officer. But I am mistaken
if at this time, Arnold is undergoing the torments of a mental
Hell.62 He wants feeling! From some traits of his character
which have lately come to my knowledge, he seems to have
been so hackneyed in villainy, and so lost to all sense of honor
and shame that while his faculties will enable him to continue
his sordid pursuits there will be no time for remorse.
Believe me sincere when I assure you, that my warmest
wishes accompany Captn. Wallops63 endeavours and your
61 Laurens had congratulated Washington on his escape from the machinations of
Arnold's plot.
02 Laurens had written: "Arnold must undergo a punishment incomparably more
severe in the permanent increasing torment of a mental hell." Laurens's letter is in
the Washington Papers.
63 Hon. Henry Wallop. He was captain in the Forty-first Foot, British Army.
174 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
expectations of exchange; and that nothing but the principle
of Justice and policy wch. I have religiously adhered to of
exchanging Officers in the order of their Captivity (where
rank would apply) has prevented my every exertion to obtain
your release and restoration to a family where you will be
receiv'd with open arms by every individual of it; but from
none with more cordiality and true affection than Your Sin-
cere friend etc.
P. S. The Baron 64 not setting out as I expected becomes the
bearer of this letter. [h. s. p.]
To MARIA JOSEFA ELIRIO DE LA PUENTE65
Head Quarters, Preckaness, October 13, 1780.
Madam : Don Francisco 66 having been so good as to inform
me of an opportunity to the Havannah, I cannot forego the
honour of making my acknowledgments to you for your
obliging letter of the 6th. of July last. All the attentions I had
in my power to pay to your deceased husband were dictated,
by the friendship with which his many amiable qualities had
inspired me.
Your affliction Madam and that of his family are additional
motives for the regret I feel for his loss. Esteemed by all those
who had the pleasure of his acquaintance, he could not but be
dear to his more intimate and tender connexions. My heart
will always pay a tribute to his memory and take a warm part
in the distresses, which his loss must occasion to his family.
With the most sincere respect, etc.
64 Baron Steuben.
60 Widow of Juan de Miralles.
""Don Francisco Rendon. He was Spanish agent in America, succeeding Miralles.
1780] COURTS-MARTIAL 175
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Pracaness, October 13, 1780.
Sir: Major General Baron De Steuben has signified to me
his wish to go to Philadelphia to obtain some determination on
his department, which for want of a proper establishment is in
confusion. I cannot suffer him to depart, without adding new
testimonies of his exertions and usefulness in the course of
the last campaign; and begging that his business may receive
the earliest attention. If Congress should desire information
with respect to any particular circumstances of the Army, The
Baron will have it fully in his power to comply with their
Orders. I have the honor etc.67
To COLONEL DANIEL BRODHEAD
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 13, 1780.
Dear Sir: Your favors of the 18th: and 21st. August reached
my hands a few days before I sat out for Harford to meet the
French Admiral and General. This has occasioned their re-
maining unanswered to this time.
I have approved the sentences of the Court Martial against
Captain Beal,68 Peter Davis of the 9th: Virginia and David
Gamble of the 8th: Pennsylvania Regiment. Gamble appear-
ing to me the most proper object for an example I have directed
his execution. The time and place is left at your option. The
Adjutant Genl. transmits you the Extract from General orders
respecting the above. I am sorry, considering the former good
Character of Capt. Beal, that I cannot comply with the
67 In the writing of Caleb Gibbs.
68 Capt. Thomas Beall.
176 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
recommendation of the Court in his favor. The circumstance of
his receiving the Grain and Rifle Gun for transferring McCloud
to another Corps is so inconsistent with the Character of an Offi-
cer, that I cannot with any degree of propriety reinstate him.
I return you part of the proceedings of a Court Martial upon
JohnGosset of the 9th: Virginia Regt. I imagine the remainder
has been left out by mistake when your Packet was made up.
The Want of provisions is a clog to our operations in every
quarter. We have several times, in the course of this Campaign,
been without either Bread or Meat, and have never had more
than four or five days beforehand. The smallness of your force
will not admit of an expedition of any consequence, had you
Magazines; you must therefore, of necessity, confine yourself
to partizan strokes, which I wish to see encouraged. The State
of Virginia are very desirous of an expedition against Detroit,
and would make great exertions to carry it into execution. But
while the enemy are so formidable to the southward, and are
making such strides in that quarter, I fear it will require a
greater force of Men and supplies to check them, than we, since
the defeat near Camden, shall be able shortly to draw together.
I am etc.
P. S. Since writing the above I have reed, your favors of the
5th. 14th. and 17th. Septemr. Your distress for provision, con-
sidering the distance you are from supplies and the approach
of Winter is very alarming, and I shall therefore take the ear-
liest oppurtunity of laying before Congress, the situation of the
Garrison and the necessity which there seems to be of furnish-
ing the department with more certain means of procuring pro-
vision, than a bare dependance upon the requisitions made
from the States. Necessity must in the mean time justify the
measure of taking by impress what the inhabitants can spare.
1780] SPAIN'S EFFORTS 177
When the Court Martial have finished the business before
them, it may be dissolved.60
To FRANCISCO RENDON
Head Quarters, Preckaness, October 13, 1780.
Sir: I had the honor of receiving in due time your letter
of the 29th. of July, transmitting me one from the Governor of
Havannah and another from the lady of our deceased friend;
but the movements of the army which soon after ensued
prevented my acknowledging the receipt. I have now the
pleasure of your dispatch of the 30th. of September with du-
plicates of the above mentioned letters. I beg you when you
write to the Governor next, to express to him my sensibility for
the favour of his letter, and to forward the inclosed by the first
opportunity.
I am much obliged to you for the interesting intelligence you
communicate; I wish the success of the expeditions70 you men-
tion from the double motives of the warm interest I take in
every thing that contributes to the honor and advantage of the
arms of His Most Catholic Majesty, and from the beneficial in-
fluence which the intended operation may have on the affairs
of the Southern states.
If it may be in my power at any time to promote the objects
of your commission the motive I have already expressed and
my esteem for you personally will make me happy to do it. We
have recently received advices of a considerable embarkation at
New York, which was to have sailed three days since. We have
not the particulars; but they shall be forwarded to you the
69 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
™Presumably the intended expeditions from Havana against St. Augustine and
Pensacola.
178 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
moment they come to me. It may be useful to the officers
charged with the expeditions you announce to be acquainted
with this event. I have the honor etc.71
To MAJOR HENRY LEE
[Headquarters, October 13, 1780.]
Dear Sir: I am very glad your letter of this date has given
strength to my conviction of the innocence of the gentleman,
who was the subject of your inquiry.72 I want to see you on a
particular piece of business.73 If the day is fair, and nothing of
consequence intervenes, I will be at the Marquis's74 quarters by
ten o'clock tomorrow. If this should not happen, I shall be
glad to see you at head-quarters. I am etc.'5
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Friday, October 13, 1780.
Parole Wilmington. Countersigns Wesel, West.
Watchword Watch.
Brigadier General Irvine
Colonel Chambers
For the Day Tomorrow I Lieutenant Colonel Sumner
Major Harwood70
Brigade Major Darby
"The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
72Maj. Gen. Arthur St. Clair. Reports circulated that other general officers of the
Continental Army were involved in Arnold's treason, and St. Clair's name had been
mentioned by a Captain Brown in the British service. (See Lee's letter to Washing-
ton, Oct. 13, 1780, in the Washington Tapers.')
"Probably the attempt to capture Arnold.
74Marquis de Lafayette.
75 From the text printed in Sparks, vol. 7, 545. No draft of this letter is now
found in the Washington Papers.
'"Maj. Peter Harwood, of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment. He resigned in
October, 1780.
1780] FRENCH ARTILLERY 179
At a General Court Martial held at Fort Pitt the 14th. of
August last, Colonel Gibson President, Captain Thomas Beall
of the Maryland independent corps was tried "for discharging
a Soldier after having been duly inlisted and receiving his regi-
mental cloathing through private and interested views thereby
defrauding the United States " found Guilty, being a breach of
the first Article twelfth section of the Articles of War and sen-
tenced to be dismiss'd from the service.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence and orders
it to take place.
At the same court David Gamble, a soldier of the 8th. Penn-
sylvania regiment was tried on the following charges
First : Desertion : Second : Having counterfeit money in his
Possession.
Unanimously found Guilty being a breach of Article first
Section sixth of the Articles of war, Sentenced to suffer Death.
The Commander in Chief confirms the sentence and orders
that David Gamble be executed at such time and Place as the
commanding officer in the western department shall direct.
Peter Davis a soldier of the 9th. Virginia regiment was tried
at the same court for "Desertion" found Guilty and sentenced
to suffer Death.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence but from
the intercession of the Court he is pleased to pardon him.
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, Preckaness, October 14, 1780.
Sir: I had the honor of writing to you the 12th. Instant, ap-
proving the demand you intended to make to your court for
an augmentation of your siege of artillery to double the present
quantity. I have since received your letter of the 8th.
180 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
The season is so far advanced that I think you cannot too
soon make the dispositions you propose for winter quarters,
which are as agreeable to me as they are judicious. I beg you
at all times to use your discretion in the necessary arrange-
ments for the Army under your command, in which I have
too intire confidence in your judgment not to be convinced, you
will do that which will most effectually promote the common
service.
From the reputation of the Duke De Lauzun,77 I am per-
suaded he will do every thing in his power to give satisfaction
to the inhabitants of Providence, and I flatter myself he will
find the greatest cordiality in them.
We have nothing more definitive from New York, than was
mentioned in my last; I momently expect further accounts.
With the truest attachment I am &c.78
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters near Passaick Falls, October 14, 1780.
Dr. Sir : In my Letter of the 26th. Ulto., by which I requested
You to rejoin the Army, I desired that You would come Your-
self to Head Quarters. I am now to request that You will stop
at [proceed to] West point, and take upon You the command
of that post and its Dependencies. Major General Greene, who
is at present there, will either communicate to You himself or
leave with General McDougal to be transferred, the Instruc-
tions he received respecting the post, to which You will be
pleased to attend. [If this should not find You at West point,
it is my wish that You should arrive there, as soon as circum-
"Armand Louis de Gontaut Biron, Due de Lauzun. He was brigadier general and
commander in chief of the French cavalry in America.
78The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
1780] COMMAND OF WEST POINT 181
stances will possibly admit, and I hope there will be nothing
to delay it.] I am etc.79
To MAJOR GENERAL ALEXANDER McDOUGALL
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 14, 1780.
Dear Sir: Some circumstances have taken place, by which
General Greene will have a different command from the one
he now holds, and General Heath will command at West-Point.
If he should not have arrived already, from the Eastward, I ex-
pect he will certainly be there in the course of a few days, and
request in the mean time that you will take charge of the Post.
The inclosed Letter you will be pleased to retain till he arrives.
I have requested General Greene in case General Heath is still
at the Eastward, to communicate to you the Instructions he re-
ceived respecting the Post, which you will observe and transfer
when he comes. I have nothing new to inform you of and only
to add that I am etc.80
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Head Quarters, Passaick Falls, October 14, 1780.
Dr Sir: By a Letter received Yesterday afternoon from His
Excellency the President of Congress, of the 6th Inst, inclosing
the Copy of a Resolution of the preceding day, I find it has been
their pleasure, to direct me to order a Court of Inquiry to be
held on the conduct of Major General Gates, as Commander
79 The draft, in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison, bears the following note by
him: "The Original, comprehending the whole of the above Letter was transmitted
to Majr Genl Greene to be forwarded to Genl Heath; and a 2d Letter containing all
that is not inclosed in bracketts, to be retained by Genl McDougal, in case Genl
Heath should miss the first and arrive at West point." Both the "original" letter sent
and the "2d Letter" are in the Massachusetts Historical Society.
80 In the writing of Caleb Gibbs. From a photostat of the original kindly furnished
by Dr. A. S. W. Rosenbach, of New York City.
182 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
of the Southern Army ; and also to direct me to appoint an Offi-
cer to command it in his room, until the inquiry is made. As
Congress have been pleased to leave the Officer to command
on this occasion to my choice, it is my wish to appoint You;
and from the pressing situation of affairs in that quarter, of
which You are not unapprised, that You should arrive there,
as soon as circumstances will possibly admit. Besides my own
inclination to this choice, I have the satisfaction to inform You,
that from a Letter I have received, it concurs with the wishes
of the Delegates of the three Southern States most immediately
interested in the present operations of the Enemy ; and I have
no doubt it will be perfectly agreable to the sentiments of the
Whole.81 Your ulterior Instructions will be prepared when
You arrive here.
I expect that General Heath, if not already at West point, is
on his way from Rhode Island. I write to him to take the com-
mand of the post. If he is with You, You will be pleased to
communicate to him your instructions with respect to it, and
any other matters you may judge it material for him to know.
If he is not arrived, General McDougal will command till he
comes; to whom I also write for the purpose, and to whom
You will make the communications I have requested, which
he will transfer to General Heath.
I have only to add, that I wish Your earliest arrival, that there
maybe no circumstances to retard your proceeding to the South-
ward, and that the command may be attended with the most
interesting good consequences to the States and the highest
honor to Yourself. I am etc.
81 John Mathews, a Delegate in Congress from South Carolina, wrote (October 6) to
Washington: "I am authorized by the Delegates of the three Southern States to com-
municate to your Excellency their wish that Majr. Gcnl. Greene may be the Officer
appointed to the Command of the Southern department, if it would not be incom-
patible with the rules of the Army." Mathews's letter is in the Washington Papers.
1780] ARRANGEMENT ERRORS 183
P. S. You will bear in mind the Estimates. I wish to receive
them as soon as possible, as I expect the return of the Minister
and would willingly have them for consideration some time
before. [Pray direct particular attention to the Boats.]
If General Heath is not arrived, You will forward the in-
closed. I think it probable from the Letter I wrote him to join
the Army, that he will come on the Route through Litchfield.
Lest the letter that goes on this route should not meet him,
I inclose another to General McDougal which can be kept by
him till he arrives.82
To BRIGADIER GENERALS JOHN GLOVER AND
JOHN PATERSON
Head Quarters, October 14, 1780.
Gentlemen:83 It has been suggested in several applications I
have received of late, that by some means or other many Errors
took place in the arrangement of Your Line by the Board of
General Officers who sat at West point in July and August
1779, in the line of Captains and in the instance of the Inferior
Officers, principally in numbering some of the Captains wrong
in the order of their precedence in the line, and in misplacing
the Subalterns in their Regimental arrangements, and also in
some instances in fixing wrong dates from which they were to
rank. Circumstances seem now to permit an inquiry to take
place with respect to these matters. I therefore transmit a Copy
of the Arrangement of the Captains as it was then made, and
also of the Regimental arrangement of the Subalterns, and
request riiat You will as soon as possible examine into the
82 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison. The phrase in brackets
is in the writing of Washington.
83 This letter was also addressed to the officers commanding regiments in the Massa-
chusetts line in camp.
184 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
matter and report under your hands, the Order as to precedence
in which the Captains should then have been arranged, and also
the order in which the Subalterns should have been then regi-
mentally placed, with such alterations in the periods from
which they should have ranked, if any errors should be found
to have taken place in that respect, as shall appear clear and
just to the Board. I request their most accurate attention in this
business. They will proceed in the matter, as if the Original
arrangement by the Board of General Officers took place just
now, and every one named in it, were still in the Army and
acting under the rank and precedence given them. This will
prevent an infinity of trouble and an alteration of but few
Commissions or Numbers.
The Board will return all the papers I inclose them, as
well as the order in which they shall find the Captains and
Subalterns should have been arranged. While I am on this
subject, I must mention an Error which Sundry Officers have
complained of and remonstrated against as having taken place
in the line in some instances, and to which I request the Board's
particular attention in order to rectify it. If it has actually
taken place, it operates an injury to many Officers in the State
line, as well as to Many Others in the line of the Army at large.
Memorials which have been proferred suggest, that Several
persons who were Serjeants and who have been appointed by
the Board of General Officers to Ensigncies and Lieutenancies,
instead of their having rank from the time they were actually
appointed, have by some mistake or other been so recom-
mended as to obtain Warrants or Certificates or Commissions
in consequence, giving them rank from the time the vacancies
happened, as if they had a right to fill them on a principle of
succession. The Arrangement made by the Board of General
Officers will lead to an easy correction of this error, as no Offi-
cer not mentioned in it can have rank from a date prior to it,
For the Day Tomorrow
1780] EXCHANGES 185
and in case of Ne w appointments, but from the time their ap-
pointments were actually made. I have the Honor &c.84
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Saturday, October 14, 1780.
Parole Amazon. Countersigns Amber, Arras.
Watchword Army.
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel M. Jackson
Lieutenant Colonel Newall
Major Knapp
Brigade Major Pettingal
A General Court Martial to assemble next Monday morning
nine o'clock at the President's Marquee for the trial of all per-
sons brought before the court. Colonel Bailey will preside:
Lieutenant Colonel Vose, Major Winslow, a Captain from
each brigade of Infantry, and two from the Park of Artillery
are appointed Members.
All persons concerned to attend.
To ABRAHAM SKINNER
Head Quarters, October 14, 1780.
Sir: Since my Letter of Instructions to You of the 7th. Inst, I
have received an Answer from His Excellency Governor Jeffer-
son of Virginia, by which I find the exchange of Lt Governor
Hamilton or Major Hay cannot take place upon the present
occasion. You will particularly attend to this circumstance.
A Captn Lyman,85 who was taken in the Mercury packet is a
prisoner at Lancaster. I desire that he may be permitted to go
84 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
^Capt. Gamaliel Dwight Lyman, of the Sixty -fourth Foot, British Army.
186 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
into New York immediately on parole. He can afterwards be
included in the exchange of Officers, which from some possi-
ble delays that may attend it, might procrastinate the relief he
requests.
I am informed by a Letter I have received from Major Gen-
eral Phillips of the 13th that you had proposed an interview
with Mr Loring at New York, on the subject of exchanges.
Previous to any meeting between You, I desire to see You, and
that you will bring with you the List of privates, prisoners in
the hands of the Enemy at New York, lately delivered or trans-
mitted You by the British Commissary. I am etc.86
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Sunday, October 15, 1780.
Parole Verona. Countersigns Verd, Usk.
Watchword Valor.
' Brigadier General Paterson
Colonel Bradly87
For the Day tomorrow < Lieutenant Colonel Robinson88
Major Hamilton
Brigade Major Moore.
The Issuing Commissaries are to deliver all their sheep and
Calve skins to the field commissary of military stores with the
Park of Artillery who will have them properly dressed for
Drum heads.
In the present divided State of the Army the following is to
be the Order of battle: The Two Pennsylvania and the first
80 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
87 Col. Philip Burr Bradley, of the Fifth Connecticut Regiment. He retired in Janu-
ary, 1781.
88 Lieut. Col. Thomas Robinson, of the Fifth Pennsylvania Regiment. He was
transferred to the Second Pennsylvania Regiment in January, 1783, and served to
November, 1783.
1780] ALARM SIGNALS 187
and second Massachusetts brigades will compose the first line.
The two Connecticut and third and fourth Massachusetts the
second line. The right Wing will consist of the Pennsylvania
and Connecticut Brigades under the command of Major Gen-
eral Lord Stirling and the Left of the four Massachusetts bri-
gades commanded by Major General St. Clair. The Light
Infantry with the rifle corps under Major Parr and Lee's Le-
gion will compose the advance Corps of the Army under the
Command of Major General Marquis De La Fayette.
An Alarm will be communicated from the Park by two
Guns as usual, upon which, or in forming the Order of Battle
at any other time, Moylan's dragoons will take post on the
right; and the Marechausie with Bedkin's troop on the left of
the first line. The Park will be in the Centre of the second line.
As Head Quarters are somewhat remote from Camp89 and
it is inconvenient for the officers of the day to attend as hereto-
fore, the General dispenses with their attendance while we re-
main in the present Position, when there is nothing more than
common in the report. He hopes and expects to have the Pleas-
ure of the company of the relieved officers at dinner as usual at
which time their report may be handed in to him.
At a General court martial held at Charlestown (New
Hampshire) the 27th. of April last, Lieutenant Colonel Com-
mandant Reid president, Brigadier General Jacob Bailey dep-
uty quarter master general at Coos appeared before the Court
on the following charge vizt. for " Suffering a quantity of Beef
at Coos to take damage through his inattention and neglect
contrary to his engagements and duty " Plead not Guilty, but
no prosecutor appearing to support the charge, the Court ad-
journ without day. Brigadier General Jacob Bailey is released
from Arrest.
9At the house of Col. Theunis Dey.
188 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
At a Court of enquiry held at Springfield (Massachusetts)
the 18th. of April last, to examine into the quantity of provi-
sions issued by Mr. Matthew Lynes, Deputy Commissary of
Issues at Coos during the Fall and Winter of 1778 and previous
to Colonel Hazen's arrival there in the year 1779, likewise to
enquire to whom, and by whose orders the provisions were
issued; after particularly examining Mr. Lynes books, orders
and Vouchers the court are unanimous in opinion that his
accounts of provisions issued during the before mentioned
periods, are true; whether he issued by proper authority the
Commander in Chief will be able to judge by the return here-
with delivered him.
The Commander in Chief is of opinion that Mr. Lyne had
proper authority for issuing the quantity of provisions speci-
fied in the return alluded to by the Court.
The Brigade Majors of the day will furnish the Captains of
the day with the parole and Countersigns on the Grand parade
who are to deliver them to the officers commanding the Camp
guards of their respective Divisions.
To JOHN ADAM90
Head Quarters, October 15, 1780.
Sir: I understand Mr Skinner is gone to Philadelphia. You
will keep the inclosed Letter for him till he returns, when
You will take the earliest opportunity of delivering it to him.
I desire to see him as soon as he arrives and have written to
him for the purpose.
You will inform the Officer who came with a Flag to Eliza-
beth Town Yesterday, that he is not to wait for an answer to
the Letters he brought; and that one will be transmitted by
^Deputy Commissary of Prisoners.
1780] ARNOLD'S ADDRESS 189
an early conveyance. You will deliver him the Letters in the
packet which accompanies this. I am etc.91
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 15, 1780.
Sir: I have been honored with your Excellency's Favors of
the 6th: and 9th: instants, with the Acts and papers to which
they refer. The first did not reach me 'till the 13th: in the Eve-
ning. I shall, in obedience to the order of Congress, take the
proper steps for a Court of Enquiry to be held on the Conduct
of Major Genl. Gates as Commander of the Southern Army;
and also shall, agreeable to their direction, appoint an Officer
to command in his room, untill such enquiry be made. Major
General Greene, who is at present at West point, is the Officer
I shall nominate.92
I am sorry to find, by the Copies transmitted in your Excel-
lency's letter of the 9th. that our Affairs to the southward are
in so deranged a state. I see not how we are to supply the defect
of Cloathing and Arms, except those which have been long
expected from France should speedily arrive.
I inclose your Excellency a New York paper of the nth:
which contains nothing material except Arnolds address to
the inhabitants of America.93 I am at a loss which to admire
most, the confidence of Arnold in publishing, or the folly of
the Enemy in supposing that a production signed by so infa-
mous a Character will have any weight with the people of these
States, or any influence upon our Affairs abroad.
91 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
92At this point in the draft the following is crossed off: "I very sensibly feel this
fresh mark of the confidence of Congress in leaving to me the appointment of a Gen-
eral Officer to so important a command."
93Arnold's "Address to the Inhabitants of America" was issued as a printed hand-
bill, dated Oct. 7, 1780. It was printed also in Gaine's New Yor\ Gazette of Oct. 16,
1780.
190 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
Our accounts from New York respecting the intended em-
barkation continue vague and contradictory. A few days ago it
was said that the troops designed for the expedition were all on
board, and that the Fleet would sail immediately. I last night
received intelligence, tho' not thro' a direct Channel, that the
troops were again disembarked, and that a plan intirely new
was in agitation. Unluckily, the person in whom I have the
greatest confidence is afraid to take any measures for commu-
nicating with me just at this time, as he is apprehensive that
Arnold may possibly have some knowledge of the connection,
and may have him watched. But as he is assured that Arnold
has not the most distant hint of him, I expect soon to hear from
him as usual.
I have, in my several late letters toGovr. Jefferson, mentioned
the preparations in New York, and have advised him to have
all public Stores removed from the navigable Waters, lest the
expedition should really, as they industriously propogate, be
destined for Virginia. I have the honor etc.94
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 15, 1780.
Sir: In answer to my proposals for appointing a Resident
Commissary of Prisoners Major General Philips by order of
Sir Henry Clinton sent me a set of articles of which the in-
closed No. 1 is a copy. I have sketched an answer No. 205
04 In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
or;This inclosure was a signed letter to Sir Henry Clinton dated Oct. 13, 1780. It
was sent to Clinton by Washington on October 21 and so dated, q. v. This and the
other inclosures mentioned are filed with this letter from Washington in the Tapers
of the Continental Congress. There is also filed there a draft of "Articles of Agree-
ment for the appointment of a Commissary of Prisoners to reside with the American
and British Armies respectively" in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison, indorsed
"No. 2." It varies from the "Proposal" on the part of Sir Henry Clinton and from
the "Propositions" of October 21, in the following particulars:
" 1. That a Commissary be appointed for each Army. The American Commissary
to reside at New York or at such other place at the discretion of the American
1780] HENRY LAURENS'S CAPTURE 191
which before I send it in, I transmit to Congress for their
examination. If they have no objections, I beg them as soon
as possible to signify it, through His Excellency the President.
I have the honor etc.
P. S. I inclose Congress a list of subsequent resignations in
the Massachusetts line No. 3 which will be an additional proof
of the spirit that prevails.
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, October 15, 1780,
6 O'clock P. M.
Sir : I have this minute received the inclosed New York pa-
per of the 13th which I transmit for your Excellency's perusal.
From the particulars related with respect to Mr. Lauren's cap-
ture, 96 1 am very much afraid that the account is really true. By
Commander in Chief, as may be most contiguous to the greatest number of privates
prisoners of War; the British Commissary at Lancaster in Pennsylvania or at Frederick
Town in Maryland or at such other place as may be most contiguous in like manner to
the privates, prisoners of War at the discretion of the British Commander in Chief.
For the conduct and good behaviour of these Commissaries, their respective Com-
manders in Chief shall be answerable. Such Commissaries are on all occasions to con-
sider themselves under parole; are neither to send verbal or written intelligence to
their own party; nor to divulge any thing that may be prejudicial to the party with
whom they reside; nor receive or forward any Letters, but such as have been inspected
by the Officers appointed for that purpose; and are not, under any pretence whatever,
to interfere with public affairs or politics, but are intirely to govern their conduct in
Office agreeable to these Regulations.
"2. . . . under the same Restrictions, once a Month, with permission from the
Military Commanding Officer at the place where the Commissary resides.
"3. . . . and in these cases and for these purposes the British Commissary shall
have liberty to go to Philadelphia from time to time as exigencies may require, with
the permission of the Military Commanding Officer at the place where he resides,
or die permission of the American Commander in Chief.
" 4. Each Commissary to be allowed to live in a House by himself with his family
and Domestics without being subject to be . . . liable to perform any military or
public duties, and exempt from all public dues and taxations; be protected and secured
in their persons and Effects, and treated with suitable respect while they continue in
office.
" 5. Neither of the Commissaries to be allowed to pass to the Army to which he be-
longs, without previously informing the Commander in Chief within whose lines he
is, of the intention of his Journey and obtaining permission for that purpose."
08 Henry Laurens, who was on his way to Holland as Minister Plenipotentiary from
the United States.
192 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
other recent intelligence from New York which is direct, the
Cork fleet is said to be on the Coast. I have the Honor etc.97
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Qrs., October 16, 1780.
Sir: I have the honor to transmit Your Excellency the Copy
of the Letter (No 1) I wrote to Sr Henry Clinton on the 6th
Instant with respect to the Citizens of South Carolina, said to
be confined on board a Ship of War; of his Answer of the 9th
(No 2) and of my Letter to him of this date (No 3), with a
Copy of the Letter from Lord Cornwallis and Lord Rawdon to
which it refers. This Letter from Lord Cornwallis but illy
comports with the mild, humane character Sir Henry Clinton
is pleased to ascribe to him upon the present occasion, and
shews, as well as Lord Rawdons, that he possesses a capacity
for the most lawless domination over the rights of mankind.
I have also the honor to transmit a copy of my Letter to Genl
Clinton of the 7th (No 4) on the subject of Exchanges, alluded
to in my Dispatches of the same date to Congress, and of my
Instructions to Mr Skinner (No 5) on the occasion. By the In-
closure (No 4) in those dispatches, Your Excellency would
find that the Enemy in their propositions of exchange respect-
ing the Convention Officers in New York and Europe ex-
cepted, at the late meeting at Elizabeth Town; Major Generals
Phillips and Riedesel and Lt Genl Burgoyne; but they have
since agreed to include the Two first and their families by a
Letter from Sir Henry Clinton of the 13th (No 6) to which
mine to him of this date refers.
Since my Letter of Instructions to Mr Skinner of the 7th. I
have received an Answer from His Excellency Governor
87 In the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
1780] BRITISH MOVEMENT 193
Jefferson, informing me that from the great influence of Lt
Governr Hamilton and a Major Hay with the Western In-
dians, and the ill consequences that would attend their release
from this circumstance, neither of them can be exchanged in
the present instance. I have written to Mr Skinner on the sub-
ject. I have the Honor etc.
P. S. Just as I was about to close my Letter I received one
from His Excellency Govr Clinton of the 14 with Inclosures;
Copies of which I transmit and which will announce the dis-
agreable intelligence of the Enemy having penetrated from
Canada both by the way of Niagara and Lake Champlain,
taken Forts Ann and George and burnt many Houses. Major
General Greene has already detached Gansevort's Regiment
from West point in consequence, and I have written to him to
send Weisenfels's or Willet's also.08
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
Head Quarters, near Passaick Falls, October 16, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have this moment reed, your Excellency's fav:
of the 14th with its inclosures. I do not think it at all improb-
able that the movements of the enemy, at this advanced season
of the Year, may have been upon a plan concerted to take
advantage of the success of Arnold's treachery. Genl. Greene,
upon the first intelligence, ordered Gansevoorts Regt. up to
Albany. I have directed him to send either Weisenfeld's or
Willets Regt. after them. This is all the force I can with pro-
priety detach from the Highland posts, untill the views of the
enemy at New York are more fully ascertained. They have
for a long time made demonstrations of an embarkation, but
the sailing has been hitherto delayed. I however hope that the
troops already ordered, with the assistance of the Militia, will
88 In the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
194 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
be sufficient to check the enemy. They must depend upon the
Country for supplies, as the Magazines are in a manner ex-
hausted. Your Excellency will oblige me by keeping me ad-
vised of any further operations. I have the honor etc."
To SIR HENRY CLINTON
Head Quarters, October 16, 1780.
Sir: I have received your two letters of the 9th. and 13th.
On the same principle upon which that of the 9th. is founded,
it has been my endeavour to conduct the correspondence be-
tween us on the terms which politeness and the nature of the
intercourse demanded. In the affair to which you alluded,
I persuade myself all the attentions were observed, which the
peculiarity of the circumstances would justify.
In my letter of the 6th. Ulto. I barely made an inquiry about
the persons who are the subject of it; I stated no particular
report much less the one you mention of a supposed plot for
the destruction of Charles Town, which I cannot but believe,
will on investigation appear as ill founded, as it does to me, in
the present situation of things, improbable. I wish I could
agree in opinion with you on the spirit which actuates your
Officers in the Southern command; but I must conceive the
inclosed intercepted letters of Lord Cornwallis and Lord Raw-
don breathe a very different temper.1 They not only profess a
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1For Cornwallis's letter to Lieutenant Colonel Balfour, dated August, 1780, see
Washington's letter to Gov. Thomas Jefferson, Oct. 10, 1780. Francis Lord Rawdon's
letter is dated July 1 and was to Maj. Henry Rugely. Rawdon wrote that the
utmost severity would be used with those inhabitants who assisted British deserters in
any way. "The Persons so offending may assure themselves of vigorous punishment;
either by Whipping, Imprisonment, or by being sent to serve his Majesty in the West
Indies, according as I shall think the degree of criminality may require. ... I will give
the Inhabitants Ten Guineas for the Head of any Deserter belonging to the Volunteers
of Ireland; and Five Guineas only, if they bring him in alive. They shall likewise be
rewarded (tho' not to that amount) for such Deserters as they may secure belonging to
any other Regiment." Rawdon's letter is in the Washington Papers.
1780] BRITISH SEVERITY 195
flagrant breach of the Capitulation of Charles Town and a vio-
lation of the laws of nations; but under whatever forced de-
scription the unhappy objects of the severity are placed, it is
in a form and carried to an extreme, at which humanity re-
volts. I flatter myself you will interpose your authority and
influence to prevent a prosecution of measures, which cannot
fail to aggravate the rigors of war and involve the most dis-
agreeable consequences.
Major General Philips in his letter in consequence of your
orders proposes an interview between himself and General
Lincoln or some other officer, for the settlement of the in-
tended exchanges, but as the business is I apprehend too simple
and too desireable on both sides to admit of difficulty, I think
the meeting of the Commys. will answer every purpose. I shall
extend the instructions given to mine to your last proposition
in favour of Major Generals Phillips and Reidesel with their
families. I am etc.2
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 16, 1780.
Dear Sir: I am favd. with yours of yesterday, accompanied
by a letter from His Excellency Governor Clinton, who gives
me an account of the incursion upon the Frontiers. I am happy
that you detached Gansevoort's Regiment immediately. You
will be pleased to order either Weisenfelds or Willets, as you
may judge proper, to follow, and to take orders from the Gov-
ernor or the commanding Officer. This is all the force I think
we ought to detach from the posts untill the views of the enemy
are more fully ascertained. They put off the long expected em-
barkation strangely. They had not sailed the 13th. and it was
then said the expedition was delayed for some purpose. The
2 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
196 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
numbers under orders, by Estimate, are about two thousand or
something upwards. If the Militia should not have been dis-
charged when this reaches you, you will be pleased to detain
about five hundred to make up for the detachment you have
lately sent up the River. I have received yours of the 13th. as
I have done that inclosing the Estimates, for which I am much
obliged.
You will be pleased to carry into execution what you pro-
posed respecting the posts at Stoney and Verplanks points.
Be pleased to forward Govr. Clintons letter immediately.
I am etc.3 [ms.h.s.]
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
OR COMMANDING OFFICER AT WEST POINT
Head Quarters near Passaic, October 16, 1780.
Dear Sir: It is represented to be indispensably necessary in
the course of Smiths4 trial, that Col Lamb, Col. Livingston,
and Mr. Kearse the Qr. Master should attend the Court Mar-
tial as Witnesses. I have to request that you will notify them,
their presence will be necessary on thursday next, and to give
them directions to attend accordingly if possible. I am etc.5
[MS.H.S. 3
To BRIGADIER GENERALS
JOHN GLOVER AND JOHN PATERSON
Head Quarters, Precaness, October 16, 1780.
Gentlemen: As the Honble the Assembly of your State and
the Committee of Congress in consequence of their proceed-
ings, which you will have seen published in General Orders,
"In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
4 Joshua Hett Smith.
6 In the writing of David Humphreys.
1780] FORT SCHUYLER'S SUPPLIES 197
have annexed Colo Henry Jacksons Regiment to the Massa-
chusetts line, it is necessary that the pecedence of the Captains
of this Regiment, should have their stations fixed in the line of
Captains belonging to the State. I forgot to mention this cir-
cumstance in my letter to the Board on the 14 Inst, which they
will now be pleased to make a subject of their attention and
report the Nos these Officers Commissions should bear in the
line, and the alterations in the Nos which this may occasion.
Colo Jackson will lay before the Board a List of the dates of
their appointments and the periods from which they are to
rank, according to the arrangement which has been long since
transmitted to the Board of War for Commissions. I have the
Honor etc.6
To COLONEL WILLIAM MALCOM
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 16, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed, your favors of the 18th: and 22d. of
Septemr. and 3rd. instant. I am obliged by the exertions you
had been making to throw a present supply of provisions into
Fort Schuyler, and congratulate you upon your success against
the party of savages which opposed you in your march up.7
A Company of Artillery from Colo. Lambs Regt. is ordered
to relieve Captain Browns.8 Warners Regiment will be incor-
porated the 1 st: January. It will not therefore be worth while
to remove it from its present station, as its time of existence will
be so short; Spencers will also undergo the same reform.
I am not sufficiently acquainted with the situation of the
County above to give an opinion upon the propriety of
"The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison.
7A small skirmish in which two Indians were killed and 30 blankets, tomahawks,
and other Indian equipage captured.
8Capt. William Brown, of the First Continental Artillery. He was appointed major
in January, 1781, and served to June, 1783.
198 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
evacuating Fort Schuyler and establishing a post lower down.
At any rate this could not be done before the new post was in
sufficient forwardness to receive the Garrison immediately upon
the evacuation of the old, and this, I take it, under our present
circumstances, would be a work of considerable time. It is a
matter which will much depend upon the prevailing sentiment
in the State, which is more immediately interested in the meas-
ure, and as you have mentioned your opinion upon the subject
to His Excellency the Governor, he will I imagine take the
necessary steps to have the measure adopted should it be
deemed eligible.
In your letter of the 8th : of September you say you shall for
the present throw about 350 Men into the Fort, whose times
of service will expire the first of December. Be pleased to let
me know as soon as possible, whether you have made any alter-
ation since, that I may govern myself in sending up the Relief.
Your command must of consequence expire with the service
of your Men. I shall be obliged to send up a Continental Regi-
ment to garrison the post, and the Colonel must in course have
the command. I am persuaded you will notwithstanding take
as effectual measures to lay in a winter supply of provision,
Wood and other necessaries, as if you yourself were to remain.
I am &c.9
To COLONEL JOHN LAMB
Head Quarters, October 16, 1780.
Sir : I would willingly dispense with your attendance agree-
able to your request if the Court did not deem it necessary. But
as the case is capital and the prisoner insists on your presence,
our military laws require it. I am sorry for your indisposition;
but I wish you may find yourself able to be here on thursday
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] TRIAL OF A COMMISSARY 199
or friday. The want of your testimony will otherwise be the
only delay to the conclusion of the trial. I am with great re-
gard etc.10 [N.Y.H.S.]
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Monday, October 16, 1780.
Parole Neckar. Countersigns North, No.
Watchword Navy.
Brigadier General Wayne
Colonel Marshal11
For the Day Tomorrows Lieutenant Colonel Badlam
Major T. Moore
Brigade Major Van Laer
At a General court martial at Springfield (Massachusetts)
April 1780, Lieutenant Colonel commandant Reid, president,
Mr. Isaac Tichenea,12 Assistant Commissary for the Northern
department was tried on the following charges.
"1st. For not complying with the orders received from
proper authority — for forming a magazine of provisions on
the upper part of Connecticut river in the latter part of the year
1778 and in the beginning of 1779.
2d. Making frequent and repeated misrepresentations of the
ability of that part of the country which was assigned him as
his purchasing district as an excuse for such neglect and dis-
obedience of orders.
3<Jly. The delivering or causing to be delivered over to the
issuing Commissary at Charlestown and Coos a quantity of
salted Beef in a state improper to be received by him and in a
condition in which it could not be saved and afterwards
10 In the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
"Col. Thomas Marshall, of the Tenth Massachusetts Regiment. He retired in Janu-
ary, 1781.
12Tichnor (Tichenor), deputy commissary of purchases, Northern Department.
200 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
neglecting to provide (tho' frequently requested) the necessary
articles and means to save that species of provisions, by which
the public have sustained a Loss.
4thly. A misapplication of public money in not procuring a
proportion of the several and different species of provisions
necessary to form a Magazine of provisions and in particular
neglecting to secure the article of flour, the most essential.
5thly. The want of a proper exertion in procuring the allow-
ance of Provisions and Rum for the Troops who were serving
under Colonel Hazen's command, as that detachment were
the whole course of the summer on short allowance, and fre-
quently without bread or flour.
6thly. Not supplying his Assistant, Major Child,13 with
money to comply with the orders he had received and ade-
quate to the Wants to fulfill the bargains and Contracts made
for the public by Major Child, by which the good people of
that district have been greatly deceived and injured to the
prejudice of the public service.
7thly. Preventing Mr Child, his Assistant, from purchasing
Rum for the Troops at and about Coos which was offered him
at a reasonable rate and at or about the same time selling a
quantity of Rum (which had been bought up for public use)
at an advanced price, the Profits of which it is presumed were
then intended for his own private emolument.
8thly. For changing the district of Mr. Jonathan Child, his
Assistant, to the prejudice of the public service and neglecting
the public Provisions bought up this season and now at Charles-
town in danger of being lost, all which tend to discover a want
of inclination to serve the public: Judgement or Capacity to
fill the office of a purchasing commissary."
^Maj. Jonathan Child. He was assistant commissary of purchases, Northern De-
partment.
1780] A RUM PURCHASE 201
The Court are of opinion that the first second third fourth
sixth and eight are not supported, from which Mr. Tichenea
is of consequence acquitted; in respect to the fifth charge the
Court are of opinion that no exertion on the part of Mr. Tichi-
nea was wanting in procuring provision but think he wanted
a proper exertion in procuring the Article of Rum. In respect
to the seventh charge the court are of opinion that Mr. Tichi-
nea did prevent Mr. Child from purchasing Rum for the
Troops in and about Coos but are clearly of opinion that his
selling the public rum was not only justifiable but necessary;
and that the Profits arising therefrom were not converted to
his own emolument, but to the use and much to the advantage
of the Public, but for want of a proper exertion in procuring
the Article of Rum the Court are of opinion that he receive a
reprimand from the Commander in Chief in general orders.
The Commander in Chief is sorry that he cannot agree with
the court in the propriety of reprimanding Mr. Tichinea for
not making proper exertions to procure the necessary quantity
of Rum as it does not appear that he was furnished with the
means of purchasing, on the contrary the Court in their opin-
ion upon the seventh charge find that Mr. Tichinea was justi-
fiable in disposing of part of the Rum on hand to defray some
of the expences of the Department and which was on or about
the time that the Quantity alluded to was offer'd to his assist-
ant Mr. Child for sale. Mr. Tichinea is released from his
Arrest.
The regimental Surgeons are requested to send such sick as
are proper subjects for Hospital to the flying hospital at Dore-
mis's, Lord Stirling's former quarters, on the Pompton road.
A Return of shirts actually wanting (estimating one pr
man) by the corps of artillery, infantry and cavalry to be made
tomorrow morning at orderly time, none to be included but
202 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
the soldiers inlisted for the war or a term beyond the expira-
tion of the present year. The Light infantry to be included in
the returns of the regiments to which they respectively be-
long. The state cloathiers are strictly enjoined to make returns
at the same time of any cloathing they may have upon hand.
The Levies are not to be included.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Tuesday, October 17, 1780.
Parole Lapland. Countersigns Leek, Lar.
Watchword Lively.
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Bradford
Lieutenant Colonel North,
Major Wylley
Brigade Major Woodbridge
A regiment from the second Connecticut brigade to take
post at the Notch and relieve Major Parr who is to join the
light corps of the army.
To BRIGADIER GENERAL PETER MUHLENBERG
Head Quarters, near Passaic Falls, October 17, 1780.
Sir : I have reed, your favor of the 29th. ult. The proposed
exchange of stations between Lt. Colonels Campbell14 and Tay-
lor15 will be perfectly agreeable to me. While I hear with pleas-
ure of the forwardness of the collection of the Levies, I cannot
but regret the small prospect we have of procuring an ade-
quate supply of Arms, Cloathing and other necessaries. We
"Lieut. Col. Richard Campbell, of the Ninth Virginia Regiment.
15 Lieut. Col. Richard Taylor, of the Eleventh Virginia Regiment.
For the Day Tomorrow
1780] SAILING OF BRITISH FLEET 203
have been hitherto disappointed the arrival of those Articles
expected from France, and even should they arrive after this, it
will be very long before they can be got to you, from the diffi-
culties which we experience in transportation, and more espe-
cially should they come to the Eastward, which is the most
probable.
His Excellency the Governor informed me that three hun-
dred of the old Draughts had been ordered to join Harrison's
Regt. of Artillery, which was a very proper measure. I am &c.16
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, near Passaic Falls, October 17, 1780.
Sir: I have just received advice from Elizabeth Town, which
I think may be depended on, that the Fleet fell down from
New York on Sunday last and it is said have since sailed. There
was a constant firing of signals on Sunday. The numbers gone
are, by the best information I have yet obtained, about 2500
Foot and thirty or forty Horse, but they have taken spare fur-
niture for a considerable number of Horse. General Lesly17
commands. They have pilots for both Eastward and South-
ward, but the latter is generally thought to be their destination.
I have the honor etc.
P. S. It is said they have taken a number of spare Arms also
with them.18
To MAJOR BENJAMIN TALLMADGE
[October 17, 1780.]
Dear Sir: I reed, your favr. of the nth. with C senior's
inclosed. I think you were right in declining an interview at
16 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
"Maj. Gen. Alexander Leslie.
18 In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
204 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
this time, as the enemy would act with more than common
rigour just now, should an Officer be taken under circum-
stances the least suspicious. I should be exceedingly glad to
hear from C junior, because all my accounts from other
quarters are very defective as to the number of troops to be
embarked, or, indeed, whether an embarkation is seriously in
contemplation. The last acct. was of the 13th. and it was then
said the expedition was delayed for some purpose or other.
I am etc.19
CIRCULAR TO THE STATES20
Head Quarters, near Passaic Falls, October 18, 1780.
Sir: In obedience to the orders of Congress, I have the honor
to transmit you the present state of the troops of your line, by
which you will perceive how few Men you will have left after
the 1 st of Jany. next. When I inform you also that the Regi-
ments of the other Lines will be in general as much reduced as
yours, you will be able to judge how exceedingly weak the
Army will be at that period, and how essential it is the states
should make the most vigorous exertions to replace the dis-
charged Men as early as possible.
Congress are now preparing a plan for a new establishment
of their Army which when finished they will transmit to the
several States with requisitions for their respective quotas.
I have no doubt it will be a primary object with them to have
the Levies for the War, and this appears to me a point so inter-
esting to our Independence that I cannot forbear entering into
the motives which ought to determine the States without
19 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
20 The draft, by David Humphreys, is indorsed by Varick: "To all the States from
N. Hampshire to Virginia except New Jersey," and by Tench Tilghman: "Circular to
the States from New Hampshire to North Carolina inclusive with Returns of the
Troops of their several lines."
1780] A WASTEFUL SYSTEM 205
hesitation or alternative to take their measures decisively for
that object.
I am religiously persuaded that the duration of the War and
the greatest part of the misfortunes and perplexities we have
hitherto experienced, are chiefly to be attributed to the Sys-
tem of temporary enlistments. Had we in the commencement
raised an Army for the War, such as was within the reach of
the Abilities of these States to raise and maintain we should
not have suffered those military Checks which have so fre-
quently shaken our cause, nor should we have incurred such
enormous expenditures as have destroyed our paper Currency
and with it all public credit. A moderate compact force on
a permanent establishment capable of acquiring the discipline
essential to military operations would have been able to make
head against the enemy without comparison better than the
throngs of Militia which at certain periods have been, not in
the field, but in their way to and from the Field; for from
that want of perseverance which characterises all Militia, and
of that coercion which cannot be exercised upon them, it has
always been found impracticable to detain the greatest part of
them in service even for the term, for which they have been
called out, and this has been commonly so short, that we have
had a great proportion of the time two sets of Men to feed and
pay, one coming to the Army and the other going from it.
From this circumstance and from the extraordinary waste
and consumption of provisions, stores, Camp equipage, Arms,
Cloaths and every other Article incident to irregular troops, it
is easy to conceive what an immense increase of public expence
has been produced from the source of which I am speaking.
I might add the diminution of our Agriculture by calling off
at critical Seasons the labourers employed in it, as has hap-
pened in instances without number.
206 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
In the enumeration of Articles wasted, I mention Cloathes.
It may be objected that the terms of engagements of the Levies
do not include this, but if we want service from the Men par-
ticularly in the cold Season we are obliged to supply them
notwithstanding, and they leave us before the Cloaths are half
worn out.
But there are evils still more striking that have befallen us.
The intervals between the dismission of one Army and the
collection of another have more than once threatened us with
ruin, which humanly speaking nothing but the supineness or
folly of the enemy could have saved us from. How did our
cause totter at the close of 76, when with a little more than
two thousand Men we were driven before the enemy thro' Jer-
sey and obliged to take post on the other side of the Delaware
to make a shew of covering Philadelphia while in reallity noth-
ing was more easy to them with a little enterprise, and industry
than to make their passage good to that City and dissipate the
remaining force which still kept alive our expiring opposition !
What hindered them from dispersing our little Army and
giving a fatal Blow to our affairs during all the subsequent
winter, instead of remaining in a state of torpid inactivity and
permitting us to hover about their Quarters when we had
scarcely troops sufficient to mount the ordinary Guard ? After
having lost two Battles and Philadelphia in the following
Campaign for want of those numbers and that degree of disci-
pline which we might have acquired by a permanent force in
the first instance, in what a cruel and perilous situation did we
again find ourselves in the Winter of 77 at Valley Forge, within
a days march of the enemy, with a little more than a third of
their strength, unable to defend our position, or retreat from
it, for want of the means of transportation? What but the
fluctuation of our Army enabled the enemy to detach so boldly
1780] REGULAR ARMY NEEDED 207
to the southward in 78 and 79 to take possession of the two States
Georgia and South Carolina, while we were obliged here to be
idle Spectators of their weakness ; set at defiance by a Garrison of
six thousand regular troops, accessible every where by a Bridge
which nature had formed, but of which we were unable to take
advantage from still greater weakness, apprehensive even for
our own safety ? How did the same Garrison insult the main
Army of these States the ensuing Spring and threaten the de-
struction of all our Baggage and Stores, saved by a good counte-
nance more than by an ability to defend them ? And what will
be our situation this winter, our Army by the 1st. of January
dimished to a little more than a sufficient Garrison for West
point, the enemy at liberty to range the Country wherever they
please, and, leaving a handful of Men at N York, to undertake
Expeditions for the reduction of other States, which for want of
adequate means of defense will it is much to be dreaded add to
the number of their conquests and to the examples of our want
of energy and wisdom ?
The loss of Canada to the Union and the fate of the brave
Montgomery compelled to a rash attempt by the immediate
prospect of being left without Troops might be enumerated
in the catalogue of evils that have sprang from this fruitful
source. We not only incur these dangers and suffer these
losses for want of a constant force equal to our exigencies, but
while we labor under this impediment it is impossible there
can be any order or oeconomy or system in our finances. If
we meet with any severe blow the great exertions which the
moment requires to stop the progress of the misfortune oblige
us to depart from general principles to run into any expence
or to adopt any expedient however injurious on a larger scale
to procure the force and means which the present emergency
demands. Every thing is thrown into confusion and the
208 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
measures taken to remedy immediate evils perpetuate others.
The same is the case if particular conjunctions invite us to offen-
sive operations; we find ourselves unprepared without troops,
without Magazines, and with little time to provide them. We
are obliged to force our resources by the most burthensome
methods to answer the end, and after all it is but half an-
swered : the design is announced by the occasional effort, and
the enemy have it in their power to counteract and elude the
blow. The prices of every thing, Men provisions &ca. are
raised to a height to which the Revenues of no Government,
much less ours, would suffice. It is impossible the people can
endure the excessive burthen of bounties for annual drafts and
substitutes increasing at every new experiment: whatever it
might cost them once for all to procure Men for the War
would be a cheap bargain.
I am convinced our System of temporary inlistments has
prolonged the War and encouraged the enemy to persevere.
Baffled while we had an Army in the field, they have been
constantly looking forward to the period of its reduction, as
the period to our opposition, and the season of their successes.
They have flattered themselves with more than the event has
justified; for they believed when one Army expired, we should
not be able to raise another: undeceived however in this expec-
tation by experience, they still remained convinced, and to me
evidently on good grounds, that we must ultimately sink under
a system which increases our expense beyond calculation, en-
feebles all our measures, affords the most inviting opportunities
to the enemy, and wearies and disgusts the people. This has
doubtless had great influence in preventing their coming to
terms and will continue to operate in the same way, The de-
bates on the ministerial side have frequently manifested the
operation of this motive, and it must in the nature of things
have had great weight.
1780] USE OF MILITIA 209
The interpositions of Neutral powers may lead to a nego-
ciation this winter: Nothing will tend so much to make the
Court of London reasonable as the prospect of a permanent
Army in this Country, and a spirit of exertion to support it.
Tis time we should get rid of an error which the experience of
all mankind has exploded, and which our own experience has
dearly taught us to reject; the carrying on a War with Militia,
or, (which is nearly the same thing) temporary levies against
a regular, permanent and disciplined force. The Idea is chi-
merical, and that we have so long persisted in it is a reflection
on the judgment of a Nation so enlightened as we are, as well
as a strong proof of the empire of prejudice over reason. If we
continue in the infatuation, we shall deserve to lose the object
we are contending for.
America has been almost amused out of her liberties. We
have frequently heard the behavior of the Militia extolled
upon one and another occasion by Men who judge only from
the surface, by Men who had particular views in misrepresent-
ing, by visionary Men whose credulity easily swallowed every
vague story in support of a favorite Hypothesis. I solemnly de-
clare I never was witness to a single instance that can counte-
nance an opinion of Militia or raw troops being fit for the real
business of fighting. I have found them useful as light parties
to skirmish the Woods, but incapable of making or sustaining
a serious attack. This firmness is only acquired by habit of dis-
cipline and service. I mean not to detract from the merit of the
Militia; their zeal and spirit upon a variety of occasions have
intitled them to the highest applause; but it is of the greatest
importance we should learn to estimate them rightly. We may
expect everything from ours that Militia is capable of, but we
must not expect from any, service for which Regulars alone
are fit. The late Battle of Campden is a melancholy comment
upon this doctrine. The Militia fled at the first fire, and left the
210 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
Continental troops surrounded on every side and overpowered
by numbers to combat for safety instead of Victory. The enemy
themselves have witnessed to their Valor.
An ill effect of short enlistments which I have not yet taken
notice of, is that the constant fluctuation of their Men is one of
the sources of disgust to the Officers. Just when by great trou-
ble fatigue and vexation (with which the training of Recruits
is attended) they have brought their Men to some kind of
order, they have the mortification to see them go home, and
to know that the drudgery is to recommence the next Cam-
paign, In Regiments so constituted, an Officer has neither
satisfaction nor credit in his command
Every motive which can arise from a consideration of our
circumstances, either in a domestic or foreign point of view
calls upon us to abandon temporary expedients and substitute
something durable, systematic and substantial. This applies as
well to our civil administration as to our military establish-
ment. It is as necessary to give Congress, the common Head,
sufficient powers to direct the common Forces as it is to raise
an Army for the War; but I should go out of my province
to expatiate on Civil Affairs. I cannot forbear adding a few
more remarks.
Our finances are in an alarming state of derangement. Pub-
lic credit is almost arrived at its last Stage. The People begin
to be dissatisfied with the feeble mode of conducting the War,
and with the ineffectual burthens imposed upon them, which
tho' light in comparison to what other nations feel are from
their novelty heavy to them. They lose their confidence in
Government apace. The Army is not only dwindling into
nothing, but the discontents of the Officers as well as the Men
have matured to a degree that threatens but too general a re-
nunciation of the service, at the end of the Campaign. Since
1780] NEED OF ENERGY 211
January last we have had registered at Head Quarters more
than one hundred and sixty resignations, besides a number of
others that were never regularly reported. I speak of the Army
in this Quarter. We have frequently in the course of the Cam-
paign experienced an extremity of want. Our Officers are in
general indecently defective in Cloathing. Our Men are almost
naked, totally unprepared for the inclemency of the approach-
ing season. We have no magazines for the Winter; the mode
of procuring our supplies is precarious, and all the reports of
the Officers employed in collecting them are gloomy.
These circumstances conspire to show the necessity of imme-
diately adopting a plan that will give more energy to Govern-
ment, more vigor and more satisfaction to the Army. Without
it we have every thing to fear. I am persuaded of the sufficiency
of our resources if properly directed.
Should the requisitions of Congress by any accident not ar-
rive before the Legislature is about to rise, I beg to recommend
that a plan be devised, which is likely to be effectual, for raising
the Men that will be required for the War, leaving it to the Ex-
ecutive to apply it to the Quota which Congress will fix, I flatter
myself however the requisition will arrive in time.
The present Crisis of our Affairs appears to me so serious as
to call upon me as a good Citizen to offer my sentiments freely
for the safety of the Republic. I hope the motive will excuse the
liberty I have taken. I have the honor etc.21 [n.h.h.s.]
TO BE ADDED TO THE LETTER OF DELAWARE
P. S. The foregoing is circular to the several states. Hav-
ing received no return of your regiment since the affair of
Campden, I have it not in my power to transmit any. I can
21 The text is from the circular sent to New Hampshire and is in the writing of
Tench Tilghman.
212 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
only observe that my accounts make it probable it is greatly
reduced. There are in Lee's corps Thirty eight men belong-
ing to your state. I beg leave to suggest that the readiest way
to obtain a perfect Return will be by application of your Ex-
cellency to the commanding Officer with the Regt.22
P. S. to the State of Maryland.
The foregoing is Circular to the several States. I have it not
in my power to transmit a very accurate return of the Troops
of your State, but I send the best I have received since the late
affair at Campden; in which however the remains of the Dela-
ware Regiment are included without being distinguished. I
beg leave to suggest that the readiest way to obtain a more per-
fect one, will be by application from your Excellency to Major
General Smallwood.23 [md.h.s.]
P. S. to the States of Virginia and North Carolina.
The foregoing is circular to the several states. The circum-
stances of your line put it out of my power to transmit a return.
P. S. To Pensylvania.
The foregoing is circular to the several states. The observa-
tion I make in the first paragraph respecting the comparative
strength of the troops would mislead, if applied to your line;
for you have a much larger proportion of troops for the war
than most of the other states. The Men belonging to Pensyl-
vania in Hazen's regiment is not included in the return I send
you, because I believe it will be the intention of Congress to
keep this regiment up upon a distinct establishment.24
22 The draft of this P. S., which is in the Washington Papers, is in the writing of
Alexander Hamilton and Tench Tilghman.
23 This P. S., from a photostat of the original circular sent to Maryland, is in the writ-
ing, as is the circular itself, of Caleb Gibbs.
24 The draft of this P. S., which is in the Washington Papers, is in the writing of
Alexander Hamilton.
The drafts of the P. S.'s are on a single sheet and are indorsed by Tilghman that the
circular was sent "The 20th by Colo. Neilson to the State of Jersey." A photostat of
the circular to Connecticut, from the original in the Connecticut State Library, is also
in the Library of Congress. It is in the writing of David Humphreys.
1780] ARNOLD'S CONDUCT 213
* To PRESIDENT JOSEPH REED
Hd. Qrs., Passaic Falls, October 18, 1780.
Dear Sir: By your favor of the 3d.25 from Bethlehem, I per-
ceive my letter of the first, had not got to your hands; but I
have the pleasure to find that the business you were upon an-
ticipated the purposes of it, and was in a fair way to answer
the end.
Arnold's conduct is so villainously perfidious, that there are
no terms that can describe the baseness of his heart. That over-
ruling Providence which has so often, and so remarkably
interposed in our favor, never manifested itself more conspicu-
ously than in the timely discovery of his horrid design of sur-
rendering the Post and Garrison of West point into the hands
of the enemy. I confine my remark to this single Act of per-
fidy for I am far from thinking he intended to hazard a defeat
of this important object by combining another with it, altho'
there were circumstances which led to a contrary belief. The
confidence, and folly which has marked the subsequent con-
duct of this man, are of a piece with his villainy ; and all three
are perfect in their kind. The interest you take in my supposed
escape, and the manner in which you speak of it, claim my
thanks [as much] as if he had really intended to involve my fate
with that of the Garrison, and [I consider it as] a fresh instance
of your affectionate regard for me.
As I do not recollect ever to have held any [very] particular
conversation with General Schuyler respecting Arnold, I
should be glad to obtain a copy of the letter in which you say
my "opinion and confidence in him (Arnold) is conveyed
in terms of affection and approbation." Some time before
or after Arnolds return from Connecticut, (the conversation
2"Not now found in the Washington Papers.
214 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
made so little impression on me that I know not which),
General Schuyler informed me he had received a Letter from
Arnold intimating his intention of joining the Army and ren-
dering such Services as his Leg would permit; adding, that he
was incapable of active Service; but could discharge the duties
of a stationary command without much inconvenience or un-
easiness to his Leg. I answered that as we had a prospect of an
active and vigorous campaign I should be glad of General Ar-
nold's aid and assistance but saw little prospect of his obtaining
such a command as appear'd to be the object of his wishes be-
cause it was my intention to draw my whole force into the field
when we were in circumstances to commence our operations
against New York, leaving even West point to the care of In-
valids and a small garrison of Militia; but if, after this previous
declaration, the command of the Post, for the reasons he as-
signed, would be more convenient and agreeable to him than
a command in the field, I should readily endulge him; having
had it hinted to me by a very respectable character, a member
of Congress26 (not General Schuyler) that a measure of this
kind would not be unacceptable to the State most immediately
interested in the wellfare, and safety of the Post.
This, to the best of my knowledge and recollection, is every
syllable that ever passed between Genl. Schuyler and me re-
specting Arnold, or any of his concerns; the manner, and the
matter, appeared perfectly uninteresting to both of us at
the time. He seemed to have no other view in communicat-
ing the thing than because he was requested to do it, and my
answer dictated by circumstances you already have; but how it
was communicated the Letter will show.
That this Gentn. (Genl. Schuyler) possesses a share of my
regard and confidence I shall readily acknowledge; a pretty
28 Robert R. Livingston.
1780] COMMAND IN THE SOUTH 215
long acquaintance with him, an opinion of his abilities, his in-
timate knowledge of our circumstances, his candour as far as
I have had opportunities of forming a judgment of it added to
personal civilities and proofs of a warm friendship which I
never had a doubt of, would leave me without excuse were I to
with-hold these from him. What ascendency he may have
over the Army is more than I can tell,27 but I shd. not be sur-
prized if he stands in a favourable point of view with respect
to their esteem. The means he took to acquire a true knowl-
edge of their distresses, while he was with it; the representa-
tions he made to procure relief; and his evident endeavours to
promote the objects for which he was appointed, seems to have
made this a natural consequence.
That part of your Letter wch. respects the exchange of Pris-
oners will be made the subject of a partr. letter and shall
accompany this.28 With great esteem etc.
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Head Quarters, October 18, 1780.
Dear Sir: Your letter of the 16th. was delivered me an hour
since. I am aware, that the command you are entering upon
will be attended with peculiar difficulties and embarrassments;
but the confidence I have in your abilities, which determined
me to choose you for it, assures me you will do every thing the
means in your power will permit to surmount them and stop
the progress of the evils which have befallen and still men-
ace the Southern states. You may depend on all the support
I can give you; from the double motives of regard to you
personally and to the public good.
"At this point the following is crossed off in the draft: "I wish the delegates in
Congress would visit the Army in rotation; it might have a very good effect."
28 See Washington's letter to Joseph Reed, Oct. 19, 1780, post.
216 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
I wish circumstances could be made to correspond with your
wishes to spend a little time at home previous to your setting
out; but your presence with your command as soon as possible
is indispensable.
The embarkation at New York sailed the 16th., in all prob-
ability destined to co-operate with Cornwallis, who by the last
advices was advanced as far as Charlotte. I hope to see you
without delay, and that your health will be no obstacle to your
commencing your journey. With the sincerest regard I am etc.29
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 18, 1780.
Dear Sir : I am glad to find by your letter of the 17th. that
you were arrived at West-Point and had taken the command
of that important post. I approve of the measures you were
taking to succour the Northern frontiers. Both the regiments
you are sending will remain till the danger is intirely past.
You will Order Wysenfelts to Garrison Fort Schuyler. With
the greatest regard etc.30 [ms.h.s.]
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, Prakness, October 18, 1780.
Sir: On the 16th. the fleet containing the embarkation, men-
tioned in my last, sailed. It consisted, according to the general
tenor of my advices, of the grenadiers and light infantry, two
levy corps detachments from several regiments and a small one
of horse amounting in the whole to about three thousand. The
destination most commonly supposed is a Southern one, which
appears to me the more probable, as Cornwallis by the last
29 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
TOIn the writing of Caleb Gibbs.
1780] CONGRESS' PROMOTIONS 217
advices had advanced to Charlotte in North Carolina, Rhode
Island however is spoken of.
My advices mention the arrival of a fleet from England; a
part of it transports with troops, two British regiments, some
german and scotch recruits, in the whole about 2600 men.
The Cork fleet not yet arrived. I have the honor etc.31
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Wednesday, October 18, 1780.
Parole Shandy. Countersigns Sharp, Snap.
Watchword Standfast.
Brigadier General Irvine,
Colonel Vose
Lieutenant Colonel Hay,
Major Alexander,
Brigade Major Oliver,
For the Day Tomorrow
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Thursday, October 19, 1780.
Parole Persia. Countersigns I., T.
Watchword Peep.
Brigadier General Glover,
Colonel Tupper,
Lieutenant Colonel Sill,
Major Tudor,
Brigade Major Ashley,
Twelve waggoners to be drafted from the line and sent to
the orderly office this afternoon, four o'clock.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to make the
following Promotions and Appointments : Brigadier General
31 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
For the Day Tomorrow
218 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
Smallwood to the rank of Major General. Colonel Daniel
Morgan to the rank of Brigadier General. Mr Abraham Skin-
ner Commissary General of Prisoners.
Doctor William Shippen junr. Director General. Doctor
John Cochran Chief Physician and Surgeon of the Army. Doc-
tors James Craik, Malachi Treat and Charles McKnight Chief
Hospital Physicians. Thomas Bond junr. Purveyor. Isaac Led-
yard Assistant purveyor. Doctor Andrew Craig Apothecary.
William Johannot Assistant Apothecary.
Doctors James Tilton, Samuel Adams, David Townsend,
Henry Latimer, Francis Hagan, Philip Turner, William Bur-
net, John Warren, Moses Scott, David Jackson, Bodo Otto,
Moses Bloomfield, William Eustis, George Draper and Bar-
nabas Binney Hospital Physicians and Surgeons.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased in just Ab-
horrence of the perfidy of his conduct to pass the following
Act:
In Congress October 4, 1780
Resolved, That the Board of War be and hereby are directed to erase
from the register of the names of the officers of the army of the United
States, the name of Benedict Arnold.
To PRESIDENT JOSEPH REED
[Hd. Qrs. Passaic Falls, October 19, 1780.]
[Sir: With respect to] Prisoners of War [mentioned in yr.
Excellency's Letter of the 3d. Instt. I beg leave to observe that
it has] been my wish from the beginning of the contest to the
present day, that no distinction should exist with respect to
them; that the whole should be considered on one general and
liberal scale as belonging to the States, and not to this or that
State; be exchanged according to their rank and the order of
their captivity; and that all military prisoners taken from the
1780]
EXCHANGES 219
Enemy, no matter where or by whom, should be deemed as
belonging to the public at large and be applied generally for
the release of those in the Enemy's hands. This has been my
wish because it appeared to be just and the only principle
which could give general satisfaction. In conformity to it, all
exchanges in the course of the War resting solely with me and
made by my direction, have been conducted, and it has been
my constant direction where the point depended wholly on
me, that the prisoners with the Enemy were to be exchanged
agreable to it. Particular cases however may arise when it
may be proper to depart from the principle; but these can be
but rare, and the principle where the business was entirely
with me, has never been deviated from in a single instance.
As to the case of Lt Colo Simcoe and Lt Colo Connolly, the
former was captured by the Jersey Militia before the Resolu-
tion passed which you inclose, was confined by the State, who
also made his exchange; the exchange of the latter was directed
in consequence of a requisition by the State of Maryland who
claimed him, to the Honble Board of War, who thought their
claim was just. This State claimed it on the examples and prac-
tice of some other States in like cases, who had made exchanges
without the interference or consulting any but their own au-
thority. When I received the Board's Letter upon the subject,
I informed them (tho I directed the exchange for the rea-
sons I have mentioned and the considerations subjoined) " that
previous to their Letter I had supposed that Citizens or Inhab-
itants captured by the Enemy were the Objects to whom the
Act meant a preference should be given, and that all Officers
in captivity were to stand upon a common footing to be re-
leased on the principle of priority of capture." But as the
terms of the act were not entirely explicit and the opinion
of the Board was in favor of the claim; the sentiments I
220 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
entertained of Lt Colo Ramsay's merit and indeed the recollec-
tion of the day of his capture, his conduct upon the occasion and
the whole circumstances by which he was placed in a situation
that exposed him to more than a common risk of falling or
being taken determined me not to oppose the measure. I have
upon the present occasion attended minutely to the Act, and
I am fully persuaded from a recurrence to some of my corre-
spondences on the subject of it, long previous to its being
passed, that my ideas of it were right and that the construction
and operation I supposed it should have, was the true one. The
Draft of it I find was in my possession for consideration, so far
back as the summer 79, as a Regulation intended for placing
the business of prisoners and their exchanges upon a different
footing from what it then was, and I returned it with this ob-
servation, that the Regulations appeared judicious and proper,
such as I had a long time wished to see take place; adding that
it appeared to be the intention to make a distinction between
prisoners and prisoners of War, which was no doubt a proper
and necessary one. Under the first I meant to comprehend
Citizens and Civil characters not usually considered or made
prisoners of exchange, but whom nevertheless the Enemy were
seizing and taking whenever they could in order to release
their Officers in our hands. Under the last, Officers and Sol-
diers of the Army or Militia actually taken in Arms. It was
the practice of the States to exchange the former for Military
prisoners and particular Officers out of the order of their cap-
tivity, for Officers they had taken, that excited the clamour
and dissatisfaction among the Officers in general who were
prisoners. I think there should be no preference under the
idea of state Captures, with respect to the exchanges of Mili-
tary prisoners. The terms of the act seem to require it. I think
1780] EXCHANGE PRINCIPLES 111
it was the intention, and if it should have a different opera-
tion it does not remove, at least but in a very remote and partial
degree, the causes which were complained of and which ap-
pear evidently on examination from the introduction to have
been the mischiefs intended to be remedied; but on the con-
trary it would sanction partial or State exchanges of Officers
and only change the mode of carrying the business into exe-
cution, by placing it in the hands of the Continental Commis-
sary instead of the Commissaries of the Individual States.
And I am to observe further that the Resolution of Con-
gress by which I am authorised to go into exchanges, now in
contemplation to be carried into effect, points out and directs
priority of capture as a governing principle. I have been thus
particular for your satisfaction. I will now proceed to the case
of Major Murray. I recollect the Board of War informed me
last fall, that his brother had applied to them for his exchange
for Major Stein, who had been captured by a Vessel belonging
to him and in consequence of his having turned over a very
considerable number of prisoners taken by her for public
benefit and the exchange of prisoners in general. The Board
thought it reasonable and so did I and from the peculiar cir-
cumstances of the case, that our prisoners would readily agree
to the measure and even promote it as an act required by
generosity and policy and gave my consent to it. The Enemy
however would not go into the exchange. The Commissary
shall be directed to attend to the case. I think the other pris-
oners contained in the list should not be exchanged but for
those on Long Island in course, as the order of their captivity
and rank apply; but I should suppose the whole will actually,
or by far the greater part of them, be sunk in exchanges for
Pennsylva Officers on that very principle, which will be far
For the Day Tomorrow <
222 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
more eligible, as many of them, I imagine (I have not a List
of the prisoners by me) must stand as early in point of cap-
ture as any in the hands of the Enemy.32
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Friday, October 20, 1780.
Parole Tasso. Countersigns Tom, Trip.
Watchword Troop.
Brigadier General Paterson
Colonel Craige
Lieutenant Colonel Johnston
Major Ballard
.Brigade Major Darby
The Grand Parade is changed to a field between General St.
Clairs and General Huntington's quarters.
The officer commanding the Provost-guard is upon the
requisition of the President of a Court martial to send the Pris-
oners demanded under a proper guard to the Court should cir-
cumstances at any time render the making a detachment from
the Provost guard unsafe the officer is to acquaint the President
that an escort may be obtained from the troops nearest at hand.
At a Division General Court martial the 5th instt., Colonel
Ogden President, Samuel Jones of Colonel Gimat's regiment
of Light Infantry was tried for "Desertion and attempting to
go to the enemy" found Guilty and sentenced (more than two
thirds of the court agreeing) to suffer Death.
The Commander in Chief approves the Sentence but is
pleased to Pardon Samuel Jones upon the particular recom-
mendation of Colonel Tupper and Lieutenant Colonel Little-
field of the Regiment to which he belongs in the Line.
32 The draft is in the writing of Robert Hanson Harrison. The words in brackets are
in the writing of Washington.
1780] ATTEMPT ON ARNOLD 223
*To MAJOR HENRY LEE
Hd. Qrs., October 20, 1780.
Dr. Sir : The plan proposd for taking A ,33 the out lines of
which are communicated in your letter which was this mo-
ment put into my hands without a date, has every mark of a
good one,34 1 therefore agree to the promised rewards, and have
such entire confidence in your management of the business as
to give it my fullest approbation; and leave the whole to the
guidance of your own judgment, with this express stipulation,
and pointed injunction, that he A d is brought to me alive.
No circumstance whatever shall obtain my consent to his being
put to death. The idea which would accompany such an event
would be that Ruffians had been hired to assassinate him. My
aim is to make a public example of him. and this should be
strongly impressed upon those who are employed to bring him
33 Benedict Arnold.
34 Lee's undated letter is filed in the Washington Papers at the end of September,
1780. "I have engaged two persons to undertake the accomplishment of your Excel-
lencys wishes. . . . The chief of the two persons is a sergeant in my cavalry. To him
I have promised promotion, the other is an inhabitant of Newark; I have had experi-
ence of his fidelity, and his connexions with the enemy render him, with his personal
qualifications very fit for the business. To this man I have engaged one hund. guineas,
five hundd. acres of land and three negroes. . . . The outlines of the scheme . . .
are that the Sergeant should join Gen. Arnold as a deserter from us, should engage in
his corps now raising, and should contrive to insinuate himself into some menial or
military birth about the Genls. person. That a correspondence should be kept up with
the man in Newark, by the latter's visiting the former every two days. When the fa-
vorable moment arrives they should seize the prize in the night, gag him, and bring
him across to Bergen woods. . . . The Sergeant is a very promising youth of uncom-
mon taciturnity, and invincible perseverance. ... I have instructed him not to return
till he receives direction from me, but to continue his attempts, however unfavorable
the prospects may appear at first. I have excited his thirst for fame by impressing on
his mind the virtue and glory of the act." The sergeant, John Champe, deserted on the
night of October 20-21, and, to prevent a possible suspicion, Lee requested orders to
move his corps to another position. Lee wrote Washington (October 25, in the Wash-
ington Papers) : "My friend got safe into New York. He was before Sir Henry Clinton
and passed all the forms of the garrison. He accidentally met Col. Arnold in the street
which has paved a natural way for further acquaintance. The party entertain high
hopes of success. ... I informed Mr. Baldwin, that I was under orders to march
south. . . ." Champe 's attempt failed through no fault of his. For Lee's account of
the exploit see Memoirs of the War in the Southern Department, by Henry Lee.
224 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
off. The Sergeant must be very circumspect; too much zeal
may create suspicion; and too much precipitancy may defeat
the project. The most inviolable secrecy must be observed on
all hands. I send you five Guineas ; but I am not satisfied of the
propriety of the Sergeants appearing with much Specie; this
circumstance may also lead to suspicion as it is but too well
known to the enemy that we do not deal much in this article.
The Interviews between the Party in and out of the City, shd.
be managed with much caution and seeming indifference or
else the frequency of their meetings &ca. may betray the design
and involve bad consequences; but I am perswaded you will
place every matter in a proper point of view to the conductors
of this interesting business and therefore I shall only add that
I am etc.
To GOVERNOR WILLIAM LIVINGSTON
October 20, 1780.
[See Circular to the States, October 18, 1780]
To MAJOR BENJAMIN TALLMADGE
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 21, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed, your favr. of the 17th. If you will re-
turn the five pieces of Gold35 which are too light, I will replace
them. I have not the means of weighing them, and therefore
may be again mistaken.
Be pleased to find an opportunity as soon as possible of ob-
taining the following information, with accuracy, of what
number of Men and of what Corps the late embarkation con-
sisted; Whether Sir Henry Clinton went with them; Whether
a reinforcement arrived lately from Europe, the number, and
whether of whole Corps or Recruits; In what manner the
35 For secret services.
1780] ARTILLERY EXPERIMENTS 225
British Army is at present disposed, designating as nearly as
possible the Corps which lay at the different places. I am anx-
ious to receive intelligence of the foregoing particulars and you
will oblige me by obtaining it speedily. I am, etc.36
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 21, 1780.
Dr. Sir : Lt : Colo. Varick and Major Franks late of General
Arnolds family having requested of me a Court of inquiry to
ascertain the part they acted relative to the transactions of Gen-
eral Arnold; You will be pleased to appoint a Court of Inquiry,
to examine into the conduct of the Gentlemen in their connec-
tion with the late Major General Arnold, during his command
at West-point, and relative to the circumstances of his desertion
to the enemy.
I have directed General Knox to apply to you for permission
for Mr. Garanger37 to make some experiments in Artillery,
which you will please to grant. I am etc.38 [ms.h.s.]
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
Head Quarters near Passaic, October 21, 1780.
Dear Sir: I do myself the honor to inclose Your Excel-
lency the Copy of a Letter which has just come to hand from
Mr Duer.
Although the testimony contained in it does not seem to be
so direct as to make Mr. Smith39 obnoxious to a Military proc-
ess, Yet, agreeable to Mr. Duer's request, I thought it necessary
3flThe draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
3TCapt. Lewis Garanger (Geranger), of the Continental artillery.
38 In the writing of Caleb Gibbs.
so Thomas Smith. He was a brother of Joshua Hett Smith, and was reported to have
been seen in New York City.
226 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
you should be apprized of it, that the State may be enabled to
take the proper measures for the public safety.
How far this information ought to co-operate with other
circumstances to have Mr Smith removed from the vicinity
of our Posts at Kings Ferry, Your Excellency, from a full
knowledge of his character and connections, will be better
able to determine than I am. I have the honor etc.40
To WILLIAM DUER
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 21, 1780.
Sir: I have transmitted a Copy of your letter of the nth.,
which only reached me last evening, to Governor Clinton, as
I did not think it contained evidence sufficient to support a
military trial. It may however, added to other circumstances
of a very suspicious nature, furnish the Legislature with good
reasons for removing the Gentleman in question from Haver-
straw, which, from its vicinity to our posts, affords him an
opportunity of gaining and giving intelligence very material
to the enemy and injurious to us. Of his dispositions to do this
there is little doubt. I am &c.41
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, October 21, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed, your favr. of the 20th The disposition
you have made of the troops at and near West point is agree-
able to me. The two small Regiments at present at Kings ferry
were purposely stationed there because they could not be bri-
gaded with convenience. They are shortly to be reformed and
40 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
41 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] STORES AT WEST POINT 227
incorporated, and therefore had best remain where they are
untill that time. Genl. Greene had proposed to remove every
superfluous Store from those posts, so that in case of necessity
they might be evacuated with little loss. He was of opinion,
that the enemy would, if they came up seriously, run an Armed
Vessel or two above them and render the removal of the stores
by Water impracticable. This seemed so probable a conjecture,
that I desired him to strip them of all but very few Stores. You
will be pleased to follow that method.
The Minister of France may soon be expected from the East-
ward. Should he take you in his way, or should you hear cer-
tainly of his approach be pleased to give me notice of it by
Express. Iam&c.42
To BRIGADIER GENERAL HENRY KNOX
October 21, 1780.
Dr. Sir: I have received your letter respecting Mr. Garanger.
From the school in which he has been taught, it is probable
he possesses a knowledge of Artillery which may render him
very useful. Experiment will best decide his knowledge of the
practice and it will be the best ground upon which to recom-
mend him to Congress. I request you therefore to send him
to West Point to make the experiment, by throwing a suffi-
cient number of shells to make it complete, under your own
eye or under the eye of officers on whom you can depend. The
sooner this is done the better; and we shall then know whether
we ought to recommend Mr. Garanger or not. I am etc.
P. S. I will write to General Heath to give his permission
when you apply to him.43
42 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
43 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
228 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
To COLONEL CHRISTOPHER GREENE
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 21, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, your favr. of the 14th. I had determined
not to march the levies attached to your Regt. to the Army as
their term of service was so nearly expired, and as Count Ro-
chambeau expressed a wish that the Regiment might remain
with him, I informed him that it should not be ordered away
while he thought it of any service to him. Your stay will
therefore depend upon circumstances.
As I never wish to inflict a punishment, especially capital,
but for the sake of example, and as you seem to think the
execution of Windsor Fry44 not so necessary upon that account,
now, as it was before, you have my consent to pardon him.
Iam&c.45
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL RICHARD VARICK
Head Quarters, Preckness, October 21, 1780.
Sir: I have received your letter of the 12th. I would will-
ingly comply with your request for an inquiry on the extensive
ground you place it did I think it could be done with propriety.
But in order for it to be a real and not a nominal inquiry, the
Court would be obliged to go into a investigation of particular
facts, which is impossible as there are no allegations and no
witnesses so that they would only proceed upon such materials
as you would furnish them. There seems to me to be too much
generality in the inquiry and that it is besides unnecessary as
your character is, so far as I am informed, unimpeached. In
my opinion the proper line is to confine the inquiry to your
He was to have been executed in June, 1780, for burglarizing commissary stores,
but he had escaped and had not been recaptured until about the first of October.
45 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] A COURT OF INQUIRY 229
conduct during your connection with Arnold; and as your for-
mer character will be a presumptive evidence of your present
innocence, on the contrary, the Court I presume will admit
your testimonials respecting it, by the way, and in this light.
Col Meade I am informed has sent you his deposition and
the papers you requested. His going to Virginia prevented his
personal attendance.
I write to General Heath by this opportunity, directing him
to appoint a Court. I am etc.46
To COLONEL MOSES HAZEN
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 21, 1780.
Sir: Inclosed is a petition which was presented to me when
I was lately at Harford. Be pleased to inform me what you
know of the circumstances and whether the persons had been
exchanged as prisoners of War, or whether they were return-
ing upon the same terms as those granted to the Canadians
taken at Saratoga, which were, parole not to serve during the
War. You will let me have the petition again. I am &c.47
To MAJOR DAVID S. FRANKS
Head Quarters, Preckness, October 21, 1780.
Sir: I have received your letter of the 16th. with the request
of which I should be happy to comply fully, did it not appear to
me that the transactions at Philadelphia cannot well be inves-
tigated but on the spot; and the particular one to which you
allude, is so much of a civil nature, that I think you had best
procure some sort of civil examination.
4"The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
47 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
230 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
I shall direct General Heath to have an inquiry into your
conduct in your connection with General Arnold during his
command at West Point. I am etc.48
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, near Passaic Falls, October 21, 1780.
Sir : I have been honored with Your Excellency's favors of
the 10th: and 14th: Instants. The advance of the British Army
towards the borders of North Carolina is an alarming circum-
stance, more especially, as there is every reason to believe that
the force which lately sailed from New York is intended to
cooperate with them.49 The enemy, by several accounts, re-
ceived a reinforcement from Europe in the last Fleet, it is said
by some to consist of two British Regiments, about 700 German
Recruits and some from Scotland. If so, this new accession is
nearly equal to their late detachment, but others again say the
reinforcement consists wholly of Recruits.
I have heard nothing directly from the Northward since my
letter of the 16th. There are reports that the enemy retired after
destroying Fort Ann, Fort George and burning some Houses.
It is thought, and perhaps not without foundation, that this in-
cursion was made upon a supposition that Arnolds treachery
had succeeded.50
48 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
40 The British expedition that sailed from New York October 16 was commanded by
Maj. Gen. Alexander Leslie, with orders to carry out Cornwallis's recommendation
that a division be posted in Chesapeake Bay to facilitate his operations. " Untill I am
certain that Earl Cornwallis sees the propriety of establishing a Post on Elizabeth
River, which I heartily wish his Lordship may find expedient to do, I do not of course
think of adding to the Corps already under his Orders. However, should that Post be
occupied, I shall probably send all the Troops that can possibly be spared from this
Army; But while Washington remains in such force, and the French continue at
Rhode Island, I do not think it adviseable to weaken this Post. If however, he should
send any Detachments to the Southward, I shall most likely do the same." — Sir Henry
Clinton to Lord Germain, Nov. 10, 1780. C. O. 5, 100, fol. 621, British Transcripts,
in the Library of Congress.
50 A party of 800 British troops and 200 Indians captured Fort George on October
11, and Fort Ann (Anne) the day before. Three officers of Col. Seth Warner's regiment
1780] RELIEF OF FORT PITT 231
Colo. Brodhead has in many of his late letters expressed his
apprehension of the consequences which may result from the
Want of provision should the enemy, agreeable to their threats,
invest the post of Fort Pitt this Winter. But by a letter from
him of the 14th: of September, matters had proceeded to such
extremities, that the Garrison headed, by the non Commis-
sioned Officers, had waited upon him, and, he says, in a de-
cent manner remonstrated upon the hardship of having been
without Bread for five days. Upon being told that every thing
would be done to relieve them they retired in good order. Colo.
Brodhead adds, the Country is not deficient of Resources, but
that public credit is exhausted, and will no longer procure sup-
plies. Congress will therefore see the necessity of either fur-
nishing the Commissary to the Westward with a competent
sum of Money, or of obtaining from the State of Pennsylvania
an assurance that the part of the quota of supplies demanded
of her by the requisition of Congress of February last and di-
rected to be deposited in the Magazines to the Westward, which
were intended for the support of Fort Pitt, shall be immediately
laid in, if it has not been already done. The importance of that
post to the whole Western Frontier is so great, as not to admit
of its being left to any risque, if it can be avoided.
I take the liberty of inclosing your Excellency, for the deter-
mination of Congress, the Copy of a letter of the 18th: from
Brig. Genl. Knox, representing the injury to the service, should
the Resolve for the dismission of Lieut. Colo. Mason, be im-
mediately carried into execution.51 I am ignorant whether the
were killed and 2 wounded. The British captured 7 officers and 124 privates. Twenty-
five additional were reported slain. Thirty-five houses and much hay and wheat were
burnt by the enemy.
"Lieut. Col. David Mason superintended the laboratory at Springfield, Mass., and
had been dismissed by a resolve of Congress of July 26, 1780. Knox's letter to Wash-
ington (October 18) stated that Mason, under Knox's direction, had been "making
fuzes, a species of laboratory preparation that requires peculiar skill and nicety. In
232 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
Resolve proceeded from a motive of ceconomy or any thing
improper in the conduct of Colo. Mason. If only from the
former, I should hope that General Knox's request would be
complied with. If from the latter, his services, however mate-
rial, must be dispensed with.
Since I began this letter I have received advices from Govr.
Clinton at Albany who mentions that the party of the enemy
which came from the Northward had retired by the way of
Lake George, but that another party from the Westward had
penetrated as far as Schoharie which valuable settlement they
had destroyed. The Governor himself was going to Schenec-
tady to make a disposition of the force in that quarter. I have
sent up two Continental Regiments to his assistance which
I hope will be sufficient to repel the Enemy, as they are not rep-
resented as very numerous. Fort Schuyler is well garrisoned
and has forty days provision in it. I therefore hope no great
danger is to be apprehended from the present incursion. I have
the honor etc.52
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters, Preckness, October 21, 1780.
Gentlemen: Did the resolution of Congress of the 10th of
April53 appear to me intirely without ambiguity or doubt, I
should not hesitate to comply with the request of your letter of
the 12th. But as in my opinion it admits of different construc-
tions, motives of delicacy restrain me from adopting one rather
than another. What is meant by the line of the army has never
case of a siege the whole success of a bombardment must depend on the accuracy with
which they are executed. His practice and perfection in this branch have produced
fuzes whose exact operation cannot be surpassed by any made in Europe." Knox's
letter is in the Washington Papers.
02The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
r,3The resolve of Apr. 10, 1780, providing for making good the depreciation in pay
"to the line of the army."
1780] LINE OF THE ARMY 233
been precisely defined or understood, the phrase has been used
in different senses, sometimes it has been applied to the ag-
gregate of the State-lines, sometimes to the whole army as
composed of corps, the cavalry, artillery and independent corps
included, and sometimes it has been applied as comprehending
not only all the corps, but every officer having military rank. If
the Board will be pleased to specify their own construction of
it, the returns shall be immediately forwarded.
I inclose a commission to Capt Gilman54 of the New Hamp-
shire line, which by the certificate from Colonel Scammell ac-
companying it appears to have been misdated; being the 12th.
of September 78 instead of the first of June preceding. The rec-
tifying this mistake will affect no other officer in that line. I
have the honor etc.55
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Saturday, October 21, 1780.
Parole Corsica. Countersigns R., U.
Watchword Caution.
Brigadier General Wayne
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant
Butler
Lieutenant Colonel Holdridge
Major Prior
Brigade Major Pettingal
Brigade returns of shoes actually wanting by the Artillery
and Infantry regimentally digested to be made tomorrow at
orderly time. The Draughts are not to be included.
Capt. Nicholas Gilman, of the Third New Hampshire Regiment. He was trans-
ferred to the First New Hampshire Regiment in January, 1781, and served to the close
of the war.
oCThe draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
For the day Tomorrow
234 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
To SIR HENRY CLINTON
Head Quarters, October 21, 1780.
Sir: In answer to my proposals for a resident Commissary
with the respective Armies, Major General Philips has trans-
mitted me another sett of proposals substantially the same, ex-
cept that they require these Commissaries to be appointed by
the Commanders in Chief, each by his own authority. It is im-
possible for me to enter into such an agreement, as I have no
power to act but by a derived authority from Congress, and all
my Stipulations necessarily suppose this. I now send a new set
of proposals, under the only form admissible on my part,
which, if agreeable to Your Excellency, we will sign and inter-
change. I shall be glad to receive your determination as speed-
ily as possible, and I hope there will be found no unnecessary
impediments to a business, in which the convenience and ac-
commodation of the prisoners on both sides are so much inter-
ested.56 I am etc.57
PROPOSITIONS RESPECTING THE AGENTS TO BE APPOINTED FOR
PRISONERS
[October 21, 1780.]
1 st: The respective Agents are to be permitted to visit the
prisoners confined where they reside, at least once a Week, in
the presence of an Officer appointed for the purpose, in order
to collect returns; see that they are regularly served with provi-
sions to which they are intitled; to hear their complaints if any;
58Sir Henry Clinton replied (November 4): "I shall have no Objection to receive a
Commissary of Prisoners to reside at New York under a Commission or Warrant
signed by You. Neither have I any Objection to the Proposals; and the Matter may be
concluded upon whenever You Chuse." Clinton's letter is in the Washington Papers.
57 In the writing of Tench Tilghman. Filed with the letter from Washington to the
President of Congress, Oct. 15, 1780, in the Papers of the Continental Congress.
1780] AGENTS OF PRISONERS 235
and in general to examine into the state of their health, accom-
modation or wants; all which, they may report to the Com-
mander in Chief in whose Lines they are, and also to their own
Commander in Chief, if they deem it essential. They are to be
permitted, in like manner, and for the same purposes, to visit
such other prisoners, as may be confined at more remote posts
whenever they judge it necessary.
2d: The Agents are to be allowed to receive and distribute
among the prisoners, such provision, Cloathing and Neces-
saries as may be transmitted for their use from time to time;
they shall also be at liberty in addition to purchase these Arti-
cles from the adverse party, and to negotiate Bills of Exchange
for the purpose of paying for such purchases; The Board of the
Officers, and for their own Exigencies.
3d : Each Agent to be allowed to dwell by himself, with his
family if he has one, without having any person billetted with
him or being subjected to any impositions whatever, under
such general regulations as the respective Commanders in
Chief or other proper Officers may direct.
4th : Each Agent to be at liberty to pass to the Army to which
he belongs, whenever he may think it necessary for obtaining
supplies for the prisoners, or settling his accounts, subject to the
controul however of the Commander in Chief within whose
Lines he is, in case circumstances should require his being de-
layed. The Agents upon this and all occasions to consider
themselves under parole not to divulge or do any thing preju-
dicial to the party with whom they reside.
5th : In case of misbehaviour, or a charge of misbehaviour in
either Agent, on a complaint thereof, and request to the Com-
mander in Chief under whom he acts, he shall be recalled and
another appointed.
236 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
6th : If an Agent should resign or be recalled, he is to be per-
mitted to return with his family and effects under the sanction
of a Flag.
7th. Each Commander in Chief to be answerable for the
good Behaviour of the Agent appointed on his part, who shall
not intermeddle with public Affairs or the politics of the place
where he is Resident.
8th : The Agents on either side to be secure in their persons
and Effects and to be treated with suitable respect while they
continue in Office.58
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Sunday, October 22, 1780.
Parole India. Countersigns 111, Inn.
Watchword Industry.
Brigadier General Huntington
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant
Hubley
Lieutenant Colonel Whiting
Major Wallbridge
Brigade Major Moore.
For the day tomorrow
To MAJOR GENERAL HORATIO GATES
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 22, 1780.
Sir : I inclose you a Resolution of Congress of the 5th. instant
directing me to order a Court of inquiry to be held on your
conduct as Commander of the Southern Army, and to appoint
an Officer to command that Army in your room untill such
inquiry be made. In obedience to this order I have appointed
58 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. Cf. the "Propositions" of July
26, 1780.
1780] COMMAND IN THE SOUTH 237
Major General Greene to the command; and I have instructed
him respecting the inquiry in the manner which the inclosed
extract50 from his instructions will show. It appeared to me
that the business could be no where so properly conducted as
with the Army where the transactions which will enter into
the inquiry took place, and where every kind of light can with
most facility be obtained. I could not however order it imme-
diately to commence; because it is possible the situation of
affairs might render it impracticable ; but I have endeavoured
to take every precaution to prevent delay, if it is not unavoid-
able. Should you have any objection to the mode proposed,
I shall be obliged to you to communicate it to me, with your
reasons, in the fullest assurance that it is my aim to execute
the orders of Congress in the manner most consistent with jus-
tice to the public and to you. In this case General Greene will
suspend proceeding 'till I receive your objections and send him
further instructions. I am etc.00 Cn.y.h.s.]
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 22, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received your favor of yesterday. Should
the enemy put their design into execution, I hope the troops
under Colo. Hazen will be in readiness to give them a proper
reception.
Yours of the 19th. is come to hand. I will consider the Con-
tents and give you an answer in my next. I am much hurried
just now in dispatching Genl. Greene. I am etc.61 [ ms. h. s. ]
"The extract is here unnecessary, as full instructions were given in Washington's
Instructions to Maj. Gen. Nathanael Greene, Oct. 22, 1780, q. v. It was found im-
practicable to hold the court when Greene took command of the Southern Depart-
ment, and Gates retired to his home in Berkeley County, Va.
""In the writing of Caleb Gibbs.
01 In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
238 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
INSTRUCTIONS TO
MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 22, 1780.
Sir : Congress having been pleased by their resolution of the
5th. instant, to authorise me to appoint an officer to the com-
mand of the Southern army in the room of Major General
Gates, 'till an inquiry can be had into his conduct as therein
directed, I have thought proper to choose you for this purpose.
You will therefore proceed without delay to the Southern
army, now in North Carolina, and take the command accord-
ingly. Uninformed as I am of the enemy's force in that quar-
ter, of our own, or of the resources which it will be in our
power to command for carrying on the war, I can give you
no particular instructions but must leave you to govern your-
self intirely, according to your own prudence and judgment
and the circumstances in which you find yourself. I am aware,
that the nature of the command will offer you embarrassments
of a singular and complicated nature; but I rely upon your
abilities and exertions for every thing your means will enable
you to effect. I give you a letter to the Honorable the Congress
informing them of your appointment and requesting them to
give you such powers and such support as your situation and
the good of the service demand. You will take their orders in
your way to the Southward.
I also propose to them to send Major General The Baron
De Steuben to the Southward with you; his talents, knowledge
of service, zeal and activity will make him very useful to you
in all respects and particularly in the formation and regulation
of the raw troops, which will principally compose the South-
ern army. You will give him a command suited to his rank;
1780] GATES'S CONDUCT 239
besides employing him as Inspector General. If Congress
approve, he will take your orders at Philadelphia.
I have put Major Lee's corps under marching orders, and as
soon as he is ready, shall detach him to join you.
As it is necessary the inquiry into the conduct of Major Gen-
eral Gates should be conducted in the quarter in which he has
acted, where all the witnesses are, and where alone the requi-
site information can be obtained, I am to desire, as soon as the
situation of affairs will possibly permit, you will nominate a
Court of Inquiry to examine into his case, agreebly to the fore-
mentioned resolution of Congress. Major General The Baron
De Steuben will preside at this Court and the members will
consist of such General and field officers of the Continental
troops, as were not present at the battle of Campden, or being
present, are not wanted as witnesses, or are persons to whom
Major General Gates has no objection. I wish this affair to be
conducted with the greatest impartiality and with as much
dispatch as circumstances will permit. You will, on your ar-
rival at the army, take the sense in writing of The General
Officers and other principal officers, concerning the practica-
bility of an immediate inquiry. If they judge it practicable on
the principles of these instructions, you will have it carried into
execution; if they do not think it can take place immediately
you will inform Major General Gates of it and transmit me
their determination; and you will from time to time pursue
the same mode, that any delay which may happen may appear
as I am persuaded it will really be, unavoidable. The Court
need not consist of more than five, nor must it consist of less
than three members; in all cases there must be three General
Officers. You will keep me constantly advised of the state of
your affairs and of every material occurrence.
240 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
My warmest wishes for your success, reputation, health and
happiness accompany you.
P. S. Should General Gates have any objection to the mode
of inquiry which he wishes to make to Congress or to me, you
will suspend proceeding in the affair, till he transmits his
objection, and you receive further orders.0"
To MAJOR HENRY LEE
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 22, 1780.
Dear Sir: I think it more than probable that your Corps
will be ordered to the southward, I would therefore have you,
agreeable to your late request, send an Officer to Philada. to
provide accoutrements and Cloathing: If the Officer will call
upon me, I will give him a letter to the Board of War upon
the subject. I am &c.
P. S. Say nothing about the cause of sending down the
Officer. I mean as to the probable destination.03
To BARON STEUBEN
Head Quarters, Preckness, October 22, 1780.
Dr. Baron : Though I am sensible how important your serv-
ices will be in this quarter; yet as to the Southward, there is
an army to be created, the mass of which is at present without
any formation at all, your services there will be still more essen-
tial; and as I am persuaded your inclination is, to be wherever
you can be most useful, I have recommended it to Congress to
send you with General Greene to the Southern army. If Con-
gress approve, you will take his orders and proceed as speedily
as possible. I wish you may have been able previously to obtain
C2The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
63The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] PRESENT DISTRESS 241
a satisfactory establishment of your department, which in your
absence will become more necessary than it has been hereto-
fore: But if it is not done, I would not have it detain you.
Assure yourself that wherever you are, my best wishes for
your success and happiness attend you. I am etc.64
*To GEORGE MASON
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, October 22, 1780.
Dear Sir: In consequence of a resolve of Congress directing
an enquiry into the conduct of Genl. Gates, and authorising
me to appoint some other Officer in his place during this en-
quiry, I have made choice of Majr. Genl. Greene who will,
I expect, have the honor of presenting you with this Letter.
I can venture to introduce this Gentn. to you as a man of
abilities bravery and coolness. He has a comprehensive knowl-
edge of our affairs, and is a man of fortitude and resources.
I have not the smallest doubt therefore, of his employing all
the means which may be put into his hands to the best advan-
tage; nor of his assisting in pointing out the most likely ones
to answer the purposes of his command. With this character,
I take the liberty of recommending him to your civilities and
support; for I have no doubt, from the embarrassed situation
of Southern affairs; of his standing much in need of the latter
from every Gentn. of Influence in the Assemblies of those
States.
As General Greene can give you the most perfect informa-
tion, in detail of our present distresses, and future prospects,
I shall content myself with giving the agregate acct. of them;
and with respect to the first, they are so great and complicated,
that it is scarcely within the powers of description to give an
64 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
242 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
adequate idea of them; with regard to the second, unless there
is a material change both in our military, and civil policy, it
will be in vain to contend much longer.
We are without money, and have been so for a great length
of time, without provision and forage except what is taken
by Impress; without Cloathing; and shortly shall be (in a man-
ner) without Men. In a word, we have lived upon expedients
till we can live no longer, and it may truly be said that, the
history of this War is a history of false hopes, and temporary
devices, instead of System, and ceconomy which results from it.
If we mean to continue our struggles (and it is to be hoped
we shall not relinquish our claim) we must do it upon an
entire new plan. We must have a permanent force; not a force
that is constantly fluctuating and sliding from under us as a
pedestal of Ice would do from a Statue in a Summers day. In-
volving us in expence that baffles all calculation, an expence
which no funds are equal to. We must at the same time con-
trive ways and means to aid our Taxes by Loans, and put
our finance upon a more certain and stable footing than they
are at prest. Our Civil government must likewise undergo a
reform, ample powers must be lodged in Congress as the
head of the Federal Union, adequate to all the purposes of
War. Unless these things are done, our efforts will be in vain,
and only serve to accumulate expence, add to our perplexi-
ties, and dissatisfy the people without a prospect of obtaining
the prize in view, but these Sentimts. do not appear well in a
hasty letter, without digestion or order. I have not time to
give them otherwise; and shall only assure you that they are
well meant, however crude they may appear. With sincere
Affectn. and esteem etc.05
65 Washington has entered at the close of this letter: "N B. The same sentemts. were
also written at the same time to Archad. Cary. Benja. Harrison. Edd. Pendleton, and
Barthw. Dandridge Esqrs. of Virginia."
1780] EXCHANGE OF OFFICERS 243
To ABRAHAM SKINNER
Head Quarters, October 22, 1780.
Sir: Since my instructions to you of the 7th. instant, the
enemy have made a proposal for exchanging Major Generals
Phillips and Reidesel with their families. This you will accede
to provided Brigadier Generals Thompson and Du Portail,
together with Major General Lincoln and his family can be
set in opposition to them.
It will be a point of great importance to us, and which I wish
you to press, to obtain from the enemy on account of their debt
to us, a sufficient sum of money to pay off the board of our
exchanged officers.
Major Van Stein66 is at all events to be exchanged for Major
Murray,67 if the latter cannot be brought in, in the common
course of exchange. I am etc.68
To COLONEL CHARLES HARRISON
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 22, 1780.
Dr. Sir: I dare say before this reaches you, you will have
heard that Major General Greene is appointed to the com-
mand of the Southern army, and from the knowledge, you
have of him, I am persuaded, you will be happy to find your-
self under his command. The affairs of the Southern army in
general must necessarily be greatly deranged, and the corps of
artillery in particular, from the losses it has sustained and the
circumstances of the service, cannot well be upon the best
regulated footing; but I have no doubt, sensible how much
eoMaj. Johann Friedrich von Stein, of Regiment Knyphausen, German allied troops.
67Maj. Francis Murray, of the Thirteenth Pennsylvania Regiment. He was ex-
changed in December, 1780, and did not rejoin the service.
68 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
244 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
depends upon it, and conscious of the honorable importance of
the command you possess, you will exert yourself to the utmost
to have every thing in your department in the best order it will
be in your power to place it. General Greene will give you all
the aid he can; and will be happy to show you every mark of
his confidence, which I am sure on your part you will not fail
to cultivate. Wishing you success and honor I am etc.69
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 22, 1780.
Sir: I have the honor to inform Congress, that in conse-
quence of their resolution of the 5th : instant, I have appointed
Major General Greene to the command of the Southern Army,
'till the enquiry into the conduct of Major Genl. Gates is com-
pleted.70 I inclose a Copy of my instructions to General Greene,
by which and a Copy of my letter to Genl. Gates, Congress
will perceive the mode I have adopted for the enquiry. I did
not perceive any other which could be substituted with equal
propriety, but if Congress are of a different opinion, I submit it
to them for their further directions.
I beg leave to mention General Greene, upon this occasion,
to Congress as an Officer, in whose abilities, fortitude and in-
tegrity, from a long and intimate experience of them, I have
the most intire confidence. In the command he is going into
he will have every disadvantage to struggle with. The confi-
dence and support of Congress, which it will be his ambition
to merit, will be essential to his success. The defect of military
resources in the southern department, the confusion in which
60 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
70The court of inquiry was never held. Congress resolved (May 21, 1781) thatGates
repair to headquarters and take such command as Washington might assign to him.
1780] SITUATION IN THE SOUTH 245
the affairs of it must for some time be, require that the Com-
manding Officer should be vested with extensive powers. I
dare say Congress will take their measures in a manner suited
to the exigency. General Greene waits upon them for their
orders.
As, in a great measure, a new Army is to be formed to the
southward, the presence of the Baron de Steuben will in my
opinion be of more essential utility in that quarter than here,
where through the ensuing Campaign, we shall have the great-
est part of our force raw Recruits, yet as we are organized and
in some order, the sub-inspectors will suffice for the purposes
of the department. I therefore submit to Congress the pro-
priety of sending the Baron de Steuben to the southern Army,
The sooner they are pleased to announce their pleasure on this
head the better. I have the honor etc.71
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 22, 1780.
Gentlemen: I have concluded to send Major Lees Corps to
the southward as soon as the accoutrements and Cloathing
necessary for their equipment can be procured. To assist in ex-
pediting this business Capt. Rudulph goes forward to Philada.
with a return of the Articles wanting. I am very apprehensive
of the difficulties which will intervene for want of money, but
when the consequence which this Corps will be of in our
southern operations is taken into consideration, I am convinced
every exertion will be made to forward them as expeditiously
as possible. I have the honor etc.72
"In the writing of Tench Tilghman. The letter was read in Congress on October 27
and referred to William Sharpe, Theodorick Bland, Ezekiel Cornell, John Sullivan, and
George Walton. (See Journals of the Continental Congress, Oct. 30, 1780, for the
committee report.)
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
246 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
*To WILLIAM FITZHUGH
Hd. Qrs. Passaic Falls, October 22, 1780.
Dear Sir: The Gentn. who will have the honor of presenting
you with this letter, is Majr. Genl. Greene, a particular friend
of mine, and one who I would beg leave to recommend to your
civilities. He is going to take command of the Southern Army,
and calls at Annapolis to make some arrangements with the
State respecting its supplies which are turned into that direction.
This Gentleman is so intimately acquainted with our situa-
tion and prospects, and can relate them with such accuracy,
that I shall not trouble you with them. My best respects attend
Mrs. Fitzhugh and the young Officer,73 whose final exchange is,
I hope, not far distant; if the Prisoners we have in this quarter
will reach the date of his captivity in the exchange we are
about to make. The Corny, is now gone in with powers to
effect this purpose. I am etc.
PS. I hope the Assemblies that are now sitting, or are about
to sit, will not rise till they put three things in a fair and proper
train
First, to give full and ample powers to Congress, competent
to all the purposes of War.
Secondly, by Loans and Taxes to put our finances upon a
more respectable footing than they are at present, and
Thirdly, that they will endeavour to establish a permanent
force. These things will secure our Independency beyond dis-
pute, but to go on in our present Systemn; Civil as well as mili-
tary is a useless and vain attempt. Tis idle to suppose that raw
and undisciplined Men are fit to oppose regular Troops, and if
they were, our present Military System is too expensive, for any
'3 Lieut. Peregrine Fitzhugh. He was exchanged on October 25.
1780] GREENE'S ABILITY 247
funds except that of an Eastern Nabob; and in the Civil line
instead of one head and director we have, or soon shall have,
thirteen, which is as much a monster in politicks as it would
be in the human form. Our prest. distresses, and future pros-
pects of distress, arising from these and similar causes, is great
beyond the powers of description and without a change must
end in our ruin.
To GOVERNOR THOMAS SIM LEE
Head Quarters, Preckaness, October 23, 1780.
Sir: Major General Greene, who goes to take command of
the Southern Army, will have the honor of presenting this to
Your Excellency. I have advised him to take the several States
in his way, which are immediately concerned in furnishing
Men and supplies for the department committed to his direc-
tion, that he may gain a more accurate knowledge of the for-
wardness they are in, a tolerable Idea of what may be his future
expectations, and endeavour to settle some plans for the regu-
lar support and subsistence of the Army in provisions, Forage
and transportation.
I am well aware of the embarrassments under which the
Southern States labor, and of the many difficulties which are to
be surmounted. But I have a very full dependance that the
most vigorous exertions will be made by them upon the pres-
ent occasion; and the entire confidence I have in the abilities,
fortitude and integrity of General Greene, founded on a long
and intimate experience of them, assures me that he will do
every thing his means will enable him to do; and I doubt not,
candid allowances will be made for the peculiar difficulties he
has to encounter.
248 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
I recommend him to your State as worthy of its utmost con-
fidence and support, and to your Excellency, personally, as one
whom I rank among the number of my Friends. With the
greatest Respect and Esteem etc.74 [md.h.s.]
To JOHN MATHEWS
Hd. Qrs., Passaic falls, October 23, 1780.
My Dear Sir : I have received your letter of the 14th.75 and shall
with the greatest pleasure apply to Sir Henry Clinton for the
permission you wish for Mrs. Mathews, the moment the Board
of War make their application for the vessel.76 As I have heard
nothing concerning this from them, I presume it is not done,
and before it is, the other request would be premature. I shall
be happy if any thing on my part can promote your wishes in
an article so interesting to yourself and family; and of this I
beg you to assure Mrs. Mathews with my respects.
Your Southern affairs wear a most disagreeable aspect and
prove more and more the necessity of renouncing that feeble
system, which has brought this Country to so perplexing a
crisis. If there were any hope of our councils assuming that
complexion, which the exigency demands, the progress of the
enemy at this period would seem to me an advantage rather
than an evil; for they have not a stamina of force sufficient for
such extensive conquests, and by spreading themselves out as
they are now doing, they will render themselves vulnerable
74 In the writing of Tench Tilghman. The same letter was sent to Govs. Thomas
Jefferson and Abner Nash. It is printed by Sparks under date of Oct. 22, 1780.
'""My situation here is truly distressing, I have no dependence, but on an empty
treasury for my support, and when the little money I have left, is exhausted, I know
not where I am to apply for more. Although the duties of my station demand of me
to undergo every species of inconvenience and distress, yet I don't think I can with any
degree of propriety impose the same task on her." — Mathews to Washington, Oct. 14,
1780. Mathews's letter is in the Washington Papers.
70 Mrs. Mathews was obliged to return to South Carolina.
1780] COMMAND IN THE SOUTH 249
every where. But I see no chance of the change we stand in
need of, and therefore, I fear they will realize their acquisitions.
You have your wish in the officer appointed to the Southern
command ; I think I am giving you a General ; but what can a
General do, without men, without arms, without cloathing,
without stores, without provisions ?
Lees corps will also go to the Southward. I believe it will be
found very useful. The corps itself is an excellent one and the
officer at the head of it has great resources of genius. With
the truest regard etc.77
To CAPTAIN JOHN GOOCH 78
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 23, 1780.
Sir: In answer to yours of the nth: I can only inform you,
that a Certificate from General Cornel, (then Colo. Cornel)
of the time of your appointment and of the time at which he
gave you notice that the Regiment could not be compleated,
is necessary to enable you to draw your pay. When you have
obtained that and produce Vouchers of your having drawn
no pay during the time, I will issue a Warrant for the Amount.
I am etc.79
To CAPTAIN THOMAS WOOSTER80
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 23, 1780.
Sir: I have just received your Letter of the 29th. Ulto. and
have to inform you; that at the same time I am greatly obliged
"The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton; the date line is in that of
Washington.
7S Formerly captain in the Ninth Continental Infantry, and Assistant Deputy Quar-
termaster General from July, 1777. His claim was for pay and rations as paymaster
to Cornell's extra Rhode Island State regiment from January to July, 1777.
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
80 Of Webb's Additional Continental regiment. He had retired in April, 1779.
250 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
by the favorable sentiments of me you are pleased to express
and the tender of personal services you make, I do not find
myself at liberty to accept the Offer, in the way you propose,
without deviating from the line of conduct I have long since
adopted.
After declining several proposals of the same kind, from
Gentlemen in nearly the same situation, it would be impos-
sible to apologize to them for giving a preference to a posterior
application. Besides the reason is much more forcible, at this
period than it formerly has been, for appointing Gentlemen
from the line of the Army, (if I should have occasion to aug-
ment my family). Because by the reduction of the Army in
contemplation, many valuable Officers now in service, will be
totally unprovided for. Your candor and justice will acknowl-
edge the first attention ought to be paid to these.
I entreat you therefore to believe that there is nothing per-
sonal in the objection ; but on the contrary you may rest assured,
the memory of your gallant Father,81 and your own reputation
will always entitle you to every mark of consideration and
esteem from Sir Your etc.82
To MAJOR JOHN MAURITIUS GOETCHIUS83
Head Quarters, October 23, 1780.
Sir: I am informed that you have one Dudley84 under your
Guard. I should be glad that you would send him up to me
and let me know what particular charges you have against
him. He shall be returned after I have questioned him on
some matters. Iam&c.85
81 Brig. Gen. David Wooster.
82 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
83 Of the New Jersey Militia.
A Tory accused of various robberies. He escaped before he could be sent to
Washington.
85 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] LIGHT INFANTRY POST 251
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, October 23, 1780.
Dear Sir: Mrs. Moore, Mother of Mrs. General Huntington,
having obtained Governor Trumbulls permission to return to
New York, you will be pleased to direct an Officer with a Flag
to escort her to the Enemys lines at Kings Bridge. Major
Alden86 will accompany Mrs. Moore. I am etc. [ms.h.s.]
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Monday, October 23, 1780.
Parole Holland. Countersigns Hay, Hall.
Watchword Hope.
Brigadier General Irvine
Lieutenant Colonel Commandant
Smith
Lieutenant Colonel Mentgez
Major Maxwell
Brigade Major Van Laer
The Corps of Light Infantry will remove from its present
encampment and take Post on the most convenient ground to
the Cranetown gap and the notch for the more effectual
security of our right.
General St. Clair will take care of the approaches on the Left.
Colonel Moylan's regiment will furnish the necessary pa-
trols and will take a new position for that purpose.
The officers of die Army are to be f urnish'd with two rations
pr day 'till further orders.
At a Brigade general court martial held the 17th. instant,
whereof Lieutenant Colonel Mentges was president.
86 Major Roger Alden. He was aide to Gen. Jedidiah Huntington.
For the day Tomorrow <
252 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
Lieutenant Edward Butler,87 Quarter master of the 9th.
Pennsylvania regiment tried for "neglect of duty as Quarter
master in not providing a waggon for the use of the regiment
on the 10th. instant agreeable to Brigadier General Irvine's
orders."
The court are of opinion that the charge exhibited against
Lieutenant Butler is groundless and do therefore Acquit him.
Lieutenant Butler is released from Arrest.
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 24, 1780.
Dear Sir: In one of my former, I barely acknowledged the
receipt of your favor of the 19th. Business prevented my going
fully into it. I wish it was in my power to give a satisfactory
answer to the representation made by Doctor McKnight in
behalf of the Gentlemen of the Hospital, on the subject of
Cloathing. They are not the only sufferers. There are a great
number of the officers of the line, who have never derived any
benefit from particular States or from the public. I have re-
peatedly remonstrated upon the hardship of their situations,
but I have heard of no competent provision being made. If
there are any small matters in the Store at Newburgh proper
for officers, I have no objection to their being delivered out, in
due proportions, to those who have derived no State benefits,
and do not expect any this winter. The officers of Lambs Artil-
lery, and Hazens, Livingstons and Spencers Regiments will
draw a few yards of Cloth and three or four shirts each from
hence, for which an allowance must be made, should there be
any goods at Newburgh.
87 Of the Ninth Pennsylvania Regiment. He was transferred to the Fifth Pennsyl-
vania Regiment in January, 1781, and to the Third Pennsylvania Regiment in January,
1783; served to November, 1783.
1780] CONVICTED SPIES 253
I must refer Colo. Campbells application to Congress. There
is a Resolve passed in June last which seems to preclude those,
who are not in actual service, from drawing Rations, but di-
rects the value to be paid in Money.
If the Officers of Colo. Sheldons Regt. are of opinion that
the execution of one the Dragoons has been a sufficient exam-
ple, I have no objection to granting a pardon to the other.
I find among Arnolds papers the proceedings of two Courts
Martial against Loveberry,88 Ackerly89 and Weeks,90 all capi-
tally convicted for coming out as Spies. Be pleased to say
whether the person detained in the provost is either of the
foregoing. I am &c.91 [ms.h.s.]
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Tuesday, October 24, 1780.
Parole Dorchester. Countersigns Don. Dol.
Watchword Denmark.
Brigadier General Glover
Lieutent. Colonel Commdt
Sherman
Lieutent Colonel Murray
Major Talbot
Brigade Major Smith
The sub clothiers of the different corps are to apply tomor-
row morning eight o'clock at the clothier general's store for
their proportion of shirts and shoes.
Major Piatt, late Aid De Camp to Major General McDou-
gall is appointed Deputy Quarter Master to the Main Army
and is to be obeyed as such.
88 Jonathan Lovebury (Loveberry). He had escaped before Arnold fled to the British.
80Nathaniel Ackesly (Ackerly).
00 Reuben Weeks.
81 In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
For the day Tomorrow
254 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
To MAJOR GENERAL ALEXANDER McDOUGALL
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 24, 1780.
Dear Sir : I am informed that the State have recently called
upon you to repair to Congress,92 so soon as you have obtained
permission to leave the Army. I think your presence there, at
this juncture, while all the arrangements for the next Cam-
paign are before them, would be of so much utility, that I can-
not but take the liberty to urge your immediate compliance
with the pleasure of the State. It appears to me, you can in no
way at this time, so essentially serve the public as by going
there; the moment is singularly critical; and the determina-
tions depending must have the greatest influence upon our
future affair. I am etc.93
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL MARINUS WILLETT
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 24, 1780.
Sir: I have received your favr. of the 18th: Congress have it
in contemplation to reduce the number of Regiments, but the
mode or terms on which the reformed Officers are to go out
are not yet fixed. It will give me great pleasure to see an Officer
of your merit retained in service, but your determination to
submit cheerfully to any regulations which may be deemed
necessary for the public good, is very laudable, and the surest
mark of a disinterested, virtuous Citizen.
I have not heard any thing of the formation of a Legion.
Colo. Hazens Regiment is the only one of the independ-
ent Corps of Infantry which Congress propose keeping up.
I am etc.94
92 As a Delegate from the State of New York.
83 In the writing of David Humphreys. From a photostat of the original kindly
furnished by Dr. A. S. W. Rosenbach, of New York City.
84 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] MONEY FOR SPIES 255
To MAJOR BENJAMIN TALLMADGE
Head Quarters, Prekaness, October 24, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received your fav. of yesterday. Inclosed
you have 5 Guineas to replace those sent to me.
I send by the Bearer a Phial with a small quantity of the stain
of which I have but little.
I have nothing further to give you in charge than what was
contained in my last. I am &c.95
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, Precaness, October 24, 1780.
Sir: I have been successively honored with your letters of the
13th. 16th. and 19th. of October. I think the change you have
made respecting Lauzun's cavalry will be an advantageous one.96
Since my last, we have accounts both by way of Statia97 and
New York, that the combined fleet consisting of thirty sail of
the line off Cape Finisterre, fell in with an outward bound
fleet and took fifty odd sail of them, among which were five
East India men; the rest were for the West Indies. This is an
important article and has all the marks of authenticity.
I have just received another account from New York that a
part of the Cork fleet has been taken; but this though probable
enough wants confirmation. I have the honor etc.
P. S. The fleet in New York harbour is said to consist of the
Sandwich of 90 and three of 74. Two seventy fours went with
the fleet to the Southward.98
95 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
90Rochambeau ordered Lauzun's cavalry to winter in Connecticut, owing to the
scarcity of forage in Rhode Island. Lebanon was the place selected.
97 St. Eustatius, West Indies.
*8The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
256 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Wednesday, October 25, 1780.
Parole Washington. Countersigns Greene, Fayette.
Watchword .
Brigadier General Paterson
Colonel Greaton
Lieutenant Colonel Fernald
Major Throop
Brigade Major Woodbridge.
For the day Tomorrow
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters, October 25, 1780.
Gentlemen: I am honored with your letter of the 18th. The
enemy seem to be practicing the arts of corruption so exten-
sively that I think we cannot be too much upon our guard
against its effects nor ought we to neglect any clues that may
lead to discoveries; but on the other hand we ought to be
equally circumspect in admitting suspicions or proceeding
upon them, without sufficient evidence. It will be the policy of
the enemy to distract us as much as possible by sowing jeal-
ousies, and if we swallow the bait, no character will be safe,
there will be nothing but mutual distrust. In the present case,
from every thing I have heard of your informant, I should sus-
pect him of the worst intentions; and notwithstanding what
we are told about the motives which obliged him to leave the
enemy, I still think it probable he came out as a spy and that
the assigned causes are either altogether fictitious, or being
real were made the inducement with him for undertaking the
errand to avoid punishment, as well as obtain a reward.09 The
IJI)Capt. B. Edgar Joel had informed the Board of War that an American major gen-
eral was in the British pay. It was supposed that he would declare it was Arnold,
1780] OFFICERS OF THE DAY 257
kind of information he is willing to give may be received;
but in my opinion, it would be a very improper foundation for
an inquiry, unless the circumstances of it have much more
weight than the character of the Witness. I have the honor etc.1
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Thursday, October 26, 1780.
Parole Luzerne. Countersigns Rochambeau, Ternay.
Watchword .
Brigadier General Wayne
Colonel Nixon
Lieutenant Colonel Peters
Major Knapp2
Brigade Major Oliver3
For the day Tomorrow
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Friday, October 27, 1780.
Parole Essex. Countersigns G., W.
Watchword Expert.
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Chambers
Lieutenant Colonel Mellen
Major Wiley
Brigade Major Ashley
For the day Tomorrow <
after the latter's treason was discovered; but Joel then claimed it was Maj. Gen. Robert
Howe. An American commissary or foragemaster allowed himself to be taken pris-
oner frequently by the British and so acted as the go-between for Howe. Joel declined
to put his information in writing.
JThe draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
2 Maj. Moses Knapp, of the Eleventh Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred
to the Tenth Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1781, and to the Fifth Massachusetts
Regiment in January, 1783; served to June, 1783.
3 Maj. Robert Oliver, of the Third Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to
the Second Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and served to November, 1783.
258 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
Lieutenant Colonel Badlam is appointed member of the
general court martial whereof Colonel Bailey is President, vice
Lieutenant Colonel Vose indisposed.
The General has the pleasure to congratulate the army on
an important advantage lately obtained4 in North Carolina
over a corps of 1400 men, British troops and new Levies com-
manded by Colonel Ferguson.5 The militia of the neighbour-
ing country under Colonels Williams,6 Shelby,7 and others
having assembled to the amount of 3000 men detached 1600 of
their number on horseback to fall in with Ferguson's party on
its march to Charlotte; they came up with them at a place
called King's mountain, advantageously posted, and gave them
a total defeat; in which Colonel Ferguson with 150 of his men
were killed, 800 made prisoners and 1500 stand of arms taken.
On our part the loss was inconsiderable. We have only to re-
gret that the brave Colonel Williams was mortally wounded.
This advantage will in all probability have a very happy in-
fluence upon the successive operations in that quarter. It is a
proof of the spirit and resources of the country.
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters near Passaic, October 28, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have been favoured with your Letter of the 24th.
Inst, and thank you for the representation you make of the
Ammunition and Ordnance Stores at Providence. I will give
directions to Colonel Greene for their further security.
While I feel the full force of all your observations respecting
the necessity of having permanent supplies laid in for the Posts
4 Oct. 7, 1780.
5 Col. Patrick Ferguson, of the British provincial troops. He was major in the
Second Battalion, Seventy-first Foot, in the British regulars.
"Col. James Williams, of the North Carolina Militia.
7 Col. Isaac Shelby, of the Virginia Militia.
1780] SUPPLY SITUATION 259
in the Highlands, I have to lament the inefficacy of our past
measures, and the disagreeable prospects before us. Col Blane8
can give you more particular information; As it is the business
of the Commissary General, to point out the places of deposit
to the state Agents, and to make all the arrangements in the
Department, but not having the power, or the means, to make
any purchases himself; the supplies must be very inadequate
and precarious, unless the States will furnish the quotas they
are called upon for, with more punctuality and dispatch, than
has hitherto been the case.
The plan you suggest of having the salted provisions put up
as near the spot as possible, would certainly be eligible; but at
present seems impracticable, while the Army is barely sub-
sisted from day to day. I cannot but hope, however, that the
Legislatures (most of which are not sitting) will take im-
mediate and effectual means to have the necessary Magazines
laid in for the Winter.
I have appointed Brigadier General Clinton to take the
command [at] Albany, who will proceed thither accordingly.
I am etc.9 [ms.h.s.]
To BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES CLINTON
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 28, 1780.
Sir: As it is necessary there should be an officer in whom the
state has confidence to take the general direction of affairs at
Albany and on the Frontier, I have fixed upon you for this
purpose, and I request you will proceed to Albany without de-
lay and assume the command. You will be particularly atten-
tive to the post of Fort Schuyler and do every thing in your
8 Col. Ephraim Blaine.
9 In the writing of David Humphreys. The word in brackets was inadvertently
omitted and is supplied from the draft.
260 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
power to have it supplied with a good stock of provision and
stores; and you will take every other precaution the means at
your command will permit, for the security of the frontier;
giving me the most early advice of any incursions of the enemy.
I inform General Heath of your appointment. I am etc.
P. S. I am informed a great number of Arms have been deliv-
ered [at Albany; by whose order, or to whom, I know not but
presume they are in the hands of Militia, and more than prob-
ably by order of Colo. Vanscaic or Colo. Malcom. I beg that
every possible means may be used to recover them to the public
and no more delivered to Militia.]10
To GOVERNOR JONATHAN TRUMBULL
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 28, 1780.
Dear Sir: I am to request your Excellency to direct the salt
Beef mentioned in your letter of the 31st: of August, and con-
cerning which I wrote to you from Harford, to be forwarded
with as much expedition as possible to Fishkill landing, by the
upper route, as that by Crumpond has become dangerous, from
the incursions of the Enemy's Refugee Corps. I am the more
anxious to have this parcel of salt provision brought speedily to
the North River, as I see no other, on which I can depend, for
furnishing a Winter supply for the important Garrison of Fort
schuyler, and if it is not got up to that post in the month of
November, it will be extremely difficult afterwards, from the
badness of the Road.
Although the season is already arrived when the Magazines
of salt Meat, for the ensuing Winter and Campaign, should be
laid in, I cannot learn that the Commissary General has been
10 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton. The P. S. is in the writing of
David Humphreys, but the portion within brackets is in that of Washington.
1780] GRAND PARADE FIELD 261
enabled to put up a single Barrel; so far from it, it is with dif-
ficulty the troops, in any quarter, are subsisted upon fresh Meat
from day to day. I have the honor &c.lx
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Saturday, October 28, 1780.
Parole Morocco. Countersigns May, Moore.
Watchword Mark.
Brigadier General Irvine
Colonel M. Jackson
Lieutenant Colonel Basset
Major Alexander
Brigade Major Darby
For the day Tomorrow
For the day Tomorrow
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Saturday, October 29, 1780.
Parole Armenia. Countersigns Avon, Argos.
Watchword Arms.
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel Bradley
Lieutenant Colonel Littlefield
Major Tudor
Brigade Major Pettingal
Ensign John Humphrey12 of the 6th. Pennsylvania regiment
is appointed Adjutant to the same, vice Lieutenant Herbert re-
signed from the first instant.
The grand parade is altered to the field near the Artificers.
11 In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
He was transferred to the Second Pennsylvania Regiment in January, 1781; ap-
pointed lieutenant in the Fourth Continental Artillery in April, 1782; served to June,
1783-
262 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased by their Act
of the 23d. Instant to promote Brigadier General Parsons to the
rank of Major General in the Continental Army.
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON OR IN HIS
ABSENCE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
VANCORTLANDT13
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 29, 1780.
Sir : I have the honor to transmit your Excellency the pro-
ceedings of the Court Martial upon Joshua Smith;14 by which
you will perceive out of four charges exhibited against him the
Jurisdiction of the Court was only found competent to one, of
which they have acquitted him for want of sufficient evidence.
As he was brought out of Your State into this15 for trial, I have
thought proper to send him back to West Point. I think it
necessary to inform you, that he will be shortly released from
confinement unless the Civil Authority should interpose to
demand him.16 I have the honor etc.
P. S. When you have considered the Proceedings you will
please to return them.17
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 29, 1780.
Dear Sir : I have sent Joshua Smith to West Point to be con-
fined there 'till further Orders, unless the Civil Authority
should in the mean time demand him, in which case you will
be pleased to deliver him up. I am &c.
"Lieut. Gov. Pierre Van Cortlandt.
u Joshua Hett Smith.
15 New Jersey.
"Smith was imprisoned by the civil authority of New York, but escaped before he
was brought to trial and succeeded in getting into New York City.
"In the writing of David Humphreys. From a photostat in the Washington Papers.
1780] NEWS FROM THE SOUTH 263
P. S. I would not wish Smith's Confinement to be rigorous
only secure. Be so good as to forward the inclosed Letter to the
Governor or in his absence to the Lt. Governor.18 [ms.h.s.]
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 29, 1780.
Sir: I have been honored with Your Excellency's favors of
the 19th, 23d, and 26th Instants. The intelligence from the
southward is most agreeable and important, and may, in its
consequences, give a happy change to the face of Affairs in
that quarter.
In regard to the application made by Colo, de Buysson to
Congress, and which they have been pleased to refer to me,
I beg leave to lay before them a Copy of my letter of the 10th:
instant, which was in answer to a similar application made
directly to me. In consequence of my advice, he wrote to Sir
Henry Clinton, but I cannot say whether he has granted him
an extension of his parole to Europe, without that, Congress
will readily perceive it does not lay with them, or with me, to
indulge him in his request. Neither can he be immediately
exchanged, without doing an act of injustice to many Officers
of his Rank, who have been much longer in Captivity.
I am exceedingly happy to find that Congress have been
pleased, by their Act of the 21st, to adopt the amendments
which I took the liberty to propose in my letter of the nth.
I cannot but hope that the reformed Officers will be content
with the generous provision made for them.
Colo. Donald Campbell, who was continued in his former
pay and Rank by a Resolve of the 13th Feby. 1777, has con-
tinued to draw Rations also 'till lately, when the Commy. of
18 In the writing of David Humphreys.
264 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
Issues to the Northward has been in doubt whether he was not
precluded from drawing Rations by the Resolves of the ioth :
March and 12th : June last. The case having been referred to
me, I would wish to know the sense and pleasure of Congress
upon the subject.
In the inclosed York paper of the 25th : Your Excellency will
find a proclamation of Arnolds addressed particularly to the
Officers and Soldiers of the Continental Army.19 This unpar-
alled piece of assurance has, if possible, added to the detestation
in which they before held him. I have the honor etc.20
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Monday, October 30, 1780.
Parole Norwalk. Countersigns N., E.
Watchword Now.
Brigadier General Patterson
Colonel Marshal
For the day Tomorrow i Lieutenant Colonel Sumner
Major Prior
Brigade Major Moore
At a General court martial Philadelphia September 27th.
1780, Colonel Francis Johnston President, Doctor James B.
Sharpe,21 was tried for "Disobedience of orders" found guilty,
being a breach of Section 2d. Article 5th. of the Articles of
war and sentenced to be reprimanded in general orders; but
the court considering the peculiar situation in which the Direc-
tor General placed Doctor Sharpe by having ordered him not
19A contemporary manuscript copy of this proclamation of Arnold, Oct. 20, 1780,
is in the Washington Papers. An original issue of the broadside is in the Library of
Congress.
^In the writing of Tench Tilghman. The letter was read in Congress on Novem-
ber 1 and referred in part to the Board of War.
21 Dr. James Boyd Sharpe. He was surgeon's mate in the Second Georgia Regiment;
surgeon in December, 1782; served to close of the war.
1780] TRIAL OF OFFICERS 265
to receive sick into the Hospital without the order was pre-
viously countersign'd by him or a senior surgeon which order
the Court are of opinion is not warrantable, do therefore rec-
ommend it to the Commander in Chief to remit the sentence.
The General is sorry to disagree in opinion with the Court
as the order given by the Director General appears to him
founded in Expedience and the common practice of Service
as well as consonant to the spirit of a general order of the 21st.
of January 1778.
Doctor Sharpe is releas'd from Arrest.
At a General court martial of the Line whereof Colol. Bailey
is President, the 16th. instant Colonel Thomas Procter of the
Artillery was tried upon the following charges.
1st. Mustering men in his regiment as soldiers that were not
actually doing the duty of Soldiers and returning them on
command when they were doing the duty of Servants in his
and other families in the city of Philadelphia.
2dly. Discharging Soldiers of his regiment for Sums of
money.
3<ily. Fraud in the settlement of his recruiting accompts.
4thly. Signing a false Certificate to a return for Quarter mas-
ter's Stores.
5thly. Discharging a number of able bodied men from his
regiment to the great prejudice of the service.
The Court are of opinion that Colonel Procter is not Guilty
of either of the Charges exhibited against him and do acquit
him with Honor.
The General entirely approves the determination of the
Court: He cannot help remarking that the prosecution on the
part of Captain Porter22 was vexatious groundless and illiberal;
■"Capt Andrew Porter, of the Second Continental Artillery. He was transferred to
the Fourth Continental Artillery in January, 1781; appointed major in April, 1781;
lieutenant colonel in January, 178a; served to June, 1783.
266 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
it is with pain too he has seen several instances for some time
past where personal pique has given birth to prosecutions as
unjust as they were indelicate and improper.
Colonel Procter is released from his Arrest.
Duplicate Returns of the names of all the officers in the
Infantry, Artillery and Cavalry, to be made out regimentally
and signed by the commandants of regiments and Corps speci-
fying their ranks and dates of Commissions; Those of the
Artillery, Cavalry, Additional regiments and Corps are to des-
ignate the states to which their officers respectively belong.
Those officers on the Staff are also to be noted in a seperate
Column according to their several staff appointments, agree-
able to the Form herewith given.
These returns to be transmitted without delay to the Orderly
Office.
To COLONEL JAMES LIVINGSTON OR OFFICER
COMMANDING KINGS FERRY
Head Quarters, October 30, 1780.
Sir: Lieutenant Meydenger23 will deliver Mr. Joshua Smith
into your custody. You will immediately send him by Water
from Kings Ferry to General Heath at West point, under
charge of an Officer with a proper Guard. You will likewise
forward all the dispatches which Lt. Meydenger will deliver
you. I am etc.24
To MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE
October 30, 1780.
It is impossible my Dear Marquis to desire more ardently
than I do to terminate the campaign by some happy stroke;
23 Lieut. Jacob Mytinger (Meydenger, Mettinger), of the Marechausee Corps.
2,1 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780]
FRIGHT OF SPIES 267
but we must consult our means rather than our wishes; and
not endeavour to better our affairs by attempting things, which
for want of success may make them worse. We are to lament
that there has been a misapprehension of our circumstances
in Europe; but to endeavour to recover our reputation, we
should take care that we do not injure it more.
Ever since it became evident that the allied arms could not
cooperate with this campaign, I have had an eye to the point
you mention,25 determined if a favourable opening should
offer to embrace it; but so far as my information goes, the
enterprise would not be warranted. It would in my opinion be
imprudent to throw an Army of ten thousand men upon an
Island against Nine thousand, exclusive of seamen and militia.
This from the accounts we have appears to be the enemy's
force. All we can therefore do at present is to endeavour to
gain a more certain knowledge of their situation and act ac-
cordingly. This I have been some time employed in doing
but hitherto with little success. I shall thank you for any aids
you can afford. Arnold's flight seems to have frightened all
my intelligencers out of their senses. I am etc.26
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 31, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received your Letter of the 24th Instant. As
the characters and circumstances of the Prisoners at West Point
are much better known to you on the spot, than they can possi-
bly be to me, I have only to request that you will use your dis-
cretion with respect to them. The Proceedings of the Court on
Burtiss have never been in my hands.
25 An attack upon New York City.
28 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
Lafayette's letter of Oct. 30, 1780, to which this is a reply, is not now found among
the Washington Papers. It is printed, however, by Sparks, vol. 7, p. 558.
268 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
There is I am informed by Gen. Irvine, a Chest belonging
to Col Koscuiszko containing principally Papers of a public
nature; which General Greene had determined to have re-
moved from Mrs. Warrens to a place of more security; but in
the hurry of business might have omitted. If the chest still re-
mains at West Point, you will be pleased to take it into your
charge, or have it removed to a place of safety. As the Drafts
and Papers are of service to the Public. I am etc.27 [ms.h.s.]
To COLONEL JAMES WOOD
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 31, 1780.
Dear Sir: Major General Phillips has informed me that Sir
Henry Clinton has consented to the exchange of Brigadier
General Spetch28 and de Gall29 with the Officers of their suite
and their attendants. I have acceded to this proposal. You
will therefore immediately permit those General Officers with
their families to repair to Elizabeth Town, by the Route of Lan-
caster, Reading and Easton, avoiding any cantonment of the
Army in their way thro' Jersey. I am &c.30
To ABRAHAM SKINNER
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 31, 1780.
Sir: In a letter from Major General Phillips of the 23, he
proposes an exchange of Brigadier Generals Spaetch and De
Gall, for any two of the three Brigadiers, Thompson, Water-
bury and Irvine.
27 In the writing of David Humphreys.
28 Brig. Gen. J. F. von Specht, o£ the German allied troops, British Army.
20 Brig. Gen. W. R. von Gall, of the German allied troops, British Army.
30The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] EXCHANGE OF OFFICERS 269
I have already instructed you respecting General Thompson.
It is my wish that you exchange the Gentlemen of the Conven-
tion troops above mentioned, as well as Generals Phillips and
Reidesel; but I make it a condition to the exchanges of these
General Officers that General Du Portail and the other charac-
ters particularly mentioned to you by Congress and the Board
of War be included.
Generals Spaecht and De Gall are immediately to come on to
Elizabeth Town so that it is necessary you should inform me as
soon as possible, whether our proposals are accepted. I am etc.31
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, October 31, 1780.
Gentn: You will oblige me by forwarding the inclosed to
Colo. Wood, as expeditiously as possible. It contains orders
to send down Brigadiers Genl. Spetch and de Gall of the Con-
vention troops, to whose exchanges Sir Henry Clinton has
consented. The Gentlemen are both old and infirm and it is
therefore to be wished that they may accomplish their long
Journey before the severity of the season sets in.
I have reed. Mr Stodderts favour of the 28th: with Colo.
Jacksons Commissions. I have the honor etc.32
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM PHILLIPS
Head Quarters, Prackness, October 31 1780.
Sir: I have received your letter of the 23d. and have directed
my Commissary of Prisoners to accede to the exchange of the
two Brigadiers you mention, on terms which I have pointed
out to him and conformable to his former instructions.
'The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
2The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
For the day Tomorrow
270 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
I have sent an order to the Commanding officer at Albe-
marle barracks33 for expediting the coming on of those Gentle-
men to Elizabeth Town as you propose. I have the honor etc.34
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Tuesday, October 31, 1780.
Parole Pittsburgh. Countersigns Piatt, Quin.
Watchword Prepare.
Brigadier General Wayne
Colonel Bradford
Lieutenant Colonel Newall35
Major Ballard
Brigade Major Van Laer
Twelve waggoners to be draughted from the line and sent to
the Orderly office tomorrow 12 o'clock. Two masons from the
Pennsylvania Line to be sent at the same time.
The officers composing the general court martial whereof
Colonel H. Jackson is President, are to return to their duty in
the line.
While we continue in the present position the Post rider will
leave camp at noon every Thursday instead of Friday morn-
ing. Letters therefore must be handed to the post office (at the
Park) in time for the mail to be made up in that hour.
At a general court martial of the line, Fishkill, October 25th,
1780 Colonel Hazen President, Colonel Elisha Sheldon of the
2d. regiment of Light dragoons was tried on the following
charges :
1st. Injuring the public service by discharging without
proper authority from said regiment, a number of men inlisted
23 At Charlottesville, Va.
^The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
36 Lieut. Col. Ezra Newhall, of the Fifth Massachusetts Regiment.
1780] COURT-MARTIAL FINDINGS 271
upon continental bounty and encouragement to serve during
the war.
2dly. Defrauding the public by selling and exchanging away
regimental horses and converting the avails to his own use.
3dly. Defrauding the officers and soldiers of his regiment of
plunder taken in action and converting the avails to his own
private use.
4thly. With unofficer and ungentlemanlike behavior.
The court are of opinion that he is not guilty of either of the
charges exhibited as aforesaid, and do acquit him with Honor
and a full Approbation : and the court on this occasion think it
a duty further to add that the charges did not originate from a
Zeal or desire to serve the United States; but rather thro' pri-
vate animosity, pique or prejudice; that the prosecution is vexa-
tious and Malicious; and that doctor Darius Stoddard,36 the
Complainant is justly chargeable with all the expence attend-
ing the court martial on the Trial of Colonel Elisha Sheldon.
His Excellency the commander in Chief confirms the opin-
ion of the Court and orders Colonel Sheldon to be released
from Arrest.
At the General court martial of the line whereof Colonel
Bailey is President, the 20th. instant, George Berrien and James
Berrien, Boatmen, were tried for "Breaking open a box of
cloathing, or suffering it to be done whilst under their care,
and taking Six pair of leather breeches, five pair of boots and
one pair of Shoes belonging to the officers of Colonel Nixon's
regiment."
The court on mature consideration are of opinion that the
charge against the Prisoners is not supported.
The Commander in Chief approves the opinion of the Court,
and orders George Berrien and James Berrien released from
Confinement.
3 Surgeon in the Hospital Department.
272 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
To GOVERNOR JOHN HANCOCK
Head Quarters, October 31, 1780.
Sir : Upon the representation of Mr. Morey that two Negro
Men belonging to him, were detained as Soldiers in the Massa-
chusetts Line contrary to his inclination, I gave directions to
Brigadier General Glover to appoint a Board of Officers to en-
quire into the Justice of his claim and to report the facts with
their opinion thereon. A Copy of this Report I now do Myself
the honor to inclose to you.
As Mr Morey is a subject of your State, and the question ap-
pears to be how far the several circumstances stated in the Re-
port ought to affect his property I have thought proper to refer
the matter to Your opinion; having no object in view but a de-
sire that equal justice may be done to the public and the indi-
vidual concerned. I have the honor etc.37
COUNCIL OF WAR38
Head Quarters, Prackness in New Jersey,
October 31, 1780.
The Commander in Chief states to the Council that since he
had the honor to meet them on the 6th: September last, Sir
Henry Clinton has made a detachment from New York esti-
mated at three thousand Men and supposed to be destined to
cooperate with Lord Cornwallis in the South, and that on our
part, Major Lees Corps of about two hundred Horse and Foot
have been detached to that quarter.
In consideration of this detachment from New York, and
under the circumstances of the Army as represented to the
37 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
38 Besides the Commander in Chief, there were present: Major Generals Stirling,
St. Clair, Lafayette, and Howe; Brigadier Generals Knox, Glover, Paterson, Wayne,
Hand, Huntington, and Irvine.
1780] OPPOSITION TO ENEMY 273
Council in the meeting above mentioned, The General re-
quests to know their opinion individually in writing whether
any thing further can be done to reinforce the southern Army
from this.
The General also requests the opinion of the Council what
disposition ought to be made for Winter Quarters, and when
the Army ought to enter into them.
The General omitted informing the Council that the Enemy
have received a reinforcement from Europe at New York of
from fifteen hundred to two thousand Men, mostly Recruits.39
* DISPOSITION FOR OPPOSING THE ENEMY40
[October, 1780]
If the Enemy should make a movement towards this Army
by the way of New-Ark, or Elizabeth Town. The pass at
Crane's gap should be immediately possessed and a look out
had at the other passes more to the right; at the sametime,
the right Wing should cross the River and extend towards the
Notch of the Mountain while the Army, except such part as
may be necessary to secure the gorge of the Mountain by To-
towa Church, should incline that way. If timely notice is had
of the Enemys landing, or intention of Landing at either of
3DIn the writing of Tench Tilghman.
In the Washington Papers, immediately following this Council of War, is a " Sum-
mary of the Opinions of the Generl. Officers on the three following points laid before
them in the Council of War held at 31st. of October 1780." Entirely in Washington's
writing, it shows that Stirling, St. Clair, Howe, Knox, Glover, and Irvine were against
making a detachment to reenforce the southern army; Wayne and Hand would de-
tach only should the French troops join the American; Lafayette would detach Lau-
zun's legion and 400 men; Huntington favored a detachment. As to winter quarters,
all were a unit in taking a position that would insure the safety of West Point; but
this position varied, and though a majority favored cantoning a part of the troops in
New Jersey, other locations were advocated. All except Lafayette advocated moving
into winter quarters without delay; he suggested December 1 as the date. Brig. Gen.
John Paterson's opinion was unrecorded.
""Indorsed by Washington "Disposition for opposing the Enemy while we were
Encamped at the Falls of Passaic." Filed at the end of 1780 in the Washington Papers.
274 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Oct.
the above places, the light Corps of the Army may be advanced
to the right instead of the Right Wing
If the enemy come by the way of the No. River, the present
disposition of the [army] with a Reinforcement sent to the
Notch is as good as can be till the point of attack can be
discovered.
REMOVAL OF BAGGAGE
If the enemy advance by the Rout first mentioned above.
The Baggage is to be sent to Pompton. That of the Right
Wing is to take the Rout by Colo. Deys,41 the two bridges,
Dodds,42 and through Pompton plains That
of the left Wing and light Corps by Vanhoutes,43 Geo: Dere-
mes,44 Mercelluss.,45 and Ogdens Iron Work46
The Parke of Artillery, The Baggage of the Commander in
Chief, and General Staff, is to pass Colo. Deys and proceed by
Nicholas Jones and David Browns to Pompton.
If the enemy should advance by the way of the No. River,
The Baggage in that case is to move to Ramapaugh bridge by
Jenningss. Tavern.47 The Right Wing Parke of
Artillery and Genl. Staff to proceed to the two
Bridges by Colo. Deys. The left Wing to the same place by
Vanhoutes and Ryersons.48 Thence over horse Neck bridge,49
and the whole to ascend the hill above Ramapaugh bridge.
The Baggage of the sevl. Corps of horse to go with
the Baggage of the parts of the Army they are ordered to join.50
41 Col. Theunis Dey.
42Dodd's Tavern.
43 Cornelius or Robert Van Houten.
^George Doremus.
45John(?) Marseleson (Marcellus).
46 Gabriel Ogden's Iron Works were the same as Pompton Furnace.
47Jenning's Tavern was just east of the junction of the Pompton-Morristown road.
48 George Ryerson.
^Horseneck Bridge over the Passaic River.
""The Erskine-De Witt maps of the Revolution for Jersey (nos. 48 2d, and 98a)
give a clear idea of this area and locate the above-mentioned places. Photostats of these
are in the Maps Division in the Library of Congress.
1780] ZEAL OF THE FRENCH 275
To THE CHEVALIER DU BOUCHET51
[October 1780.]
Sir: I have been made happy by the receipt of your Letter
of the 28th. of September, and regret that I had not an oppor-
tunity at Hartford, of assuring you personally of my esteem.
Confirmed by what I have seen myself, in the high Opinion
of his abilities and personal qualities, with which the reputa-
tion of the Count De Rochambeau had impressed me, I learn
with peculiar pleasure, his obliging partiality for me; and
my satisfaction is compleat in the assurance you give me, that
your army in general participate in his sentiments. They have
too much merit not to possess all my esteem. The zeal with
which they came to the succour of this country, and their good
conduct since will be a new cement of the alliance. Every day
brings me fresh proofs of the growing affection and admira-
tion of the inhabitants who are witnesses to it. I hope another
Campaign will be more favourable to their wishes than the
past and will reward them with those laurels and with that
glory, which I am persuaded they will deserve.
I beg my compliments to Cols. Fleury and Du Plessis, with
every assurance of my friendship. With great consideration etc.52
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Prackness, November 1, 1780.
Sir: I have the honor to request you will lay before Congress
the inclosed memorial, handed to me by the Marquis De la
Fayette, one from the Canadian families which have taken
refuge from Albany complaining that they have not for some
51 Denis Jean Florimond Langlois de Montheville, Chevalier du Bouchet. He was
deputy adjutant general of the French Army in America.
62 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
276 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
time past received the provisions allowed them by Congress.
Another from a Captn. Traversy53 containing a demand for
money due while employed by Major General Gates for secret
services which the removal of General Gates from the com-
mand he held at the time prevented his being paid.
As to the first I have taken the liberty to direct General Clin-
ton who commands at Albany to have the Canadian families
furnished with a ration for each individual 'till further orders;
I hope Congress will approve this step.54
In the affair of Captn. Traversy I could do nothing but refer
him to Congress with an assurance that they would satisfy all
his just demands. He is the bearer of this letter.
The Case of those Canadians who have attached themselves
to our fortune is in general deplorable, and both justice and
humanity make it infinitely to be desired, it were in our power
to make some better provision for persons who have left their
own country, and involved themselves in every kind of distress
in compliance with our invitation. There have been of late fre-
quent representations to me of their sufferings, I am persuaded
Congress will do every thing their means will permit for the
relief of these unhappy people. I have the honor etc.55
To FRANCISCO RENDON
Head Quarters, Prackness, November i, 1780.
Sir : I yesterday had the honor of receiving your letter of the
20th. of October. The sixteenth the embarkation mentioned
in my former letter sailed from New York, consisting from my
G,iCapt. Joseph Traversie (Traversi), of the Second Canadian Regiment.
51 On November 10 Congress approved Washington's action in supplying the Cana-
dians with rations and ordered the Board of Treasury to liquidate Captain Traversie's
accounts.
00 In the writing of Caleb Gibbs. The letter was read in Congress on November 6
and referred to James Duane, Richard Howly, and William Sharpe.
1780] REFORMATION OF ARMY 277
best accounts, of about three thousand men, composed of the
grenadiers and light infantry and chiefly besides of detach-
ments. As I mentioned to you in my last I believe they are des-
tined to Virginia, or rather North Carolina to cooperate with
Cornwallis. They may however have a destination further
Southward.
I beg you to accept my acknowledgements for obligingly exe-
cuting the requests contained in my last. I have the honor etc.56
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa,
Wednesday, November i, 1780.
Parole Rockaway. Countersigns Rome, Radnor.
Watchword Remember.
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Vose
Lieutenant Colonel Hait57
Major Wallbridge
Brigade Major Smith
[The Commander in Chief has the happiness to inform the
army, That The Honble. the Congress have been pleased by
their Acts of the 3d. and 21st. of October to pass the following
Resolutions: He is intirely persuaded, that the liberal provision
now made will give universal satisfaction; and while it evinces
the justice and generosity of Congress will prove a new motive
to the zeal and exertions of the officers.]
I j That such of the sixteen additional regiments as have not
been annexed to the line of some particular state and all the
60 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
57 Lieut. Col. Joseph Hait, of the Second Connecticut Regiment. He retired in
January, 1781.
For the day Tomorrow
278 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
seperate light corps of the army, both of horse and foot, [ (Colo-
nel Hazen's regiment, Colonel Armands and Major Lee's corps
excepted) ] and also the German battalion, be reduced on the
ist day of January next: that the non-commissioned officers
and privates in those several corps, be incorporated with the
troops of their respective states, and that such of them as do
not belong to any particular state, be annexed to such corps
as the commander in chief shall direct.
That the regular army of the United States, from and after
the i st day of January next, consist of 4 regiments of cavalry,
or light58 dragoons; [or legionary corps,] 4 regiments of artil-
lery; 49 regiments of infantry, exclusive of colonel Hazen's
regiment, hereafter mentioned; [Colonel Armand's Partizan
Corps Major Lee's do] 1 regiment of artificers:
That each regiment of cavalry, or light dragoons, [or Le-
gionary corps] consist of 6 troops, [of mounted dragoons] and
[two of dismounted dragoons,] that each troop consist of
[sixty privates with the same number of commissioned and]
64 non-commissioned officers as at present :
[That the partizan Corps commanded by Colo. Armand
and Major Lee shall consist of three troops of mounted and
three of dismounted Dragoons of fifty each, to be officered by
the Commander in Chief by the approbation of Congress;
And that the Commander in Chief be authorised to direct
a mode for compleating, recruiting and supplying the said
Corps.]
That each regiment of artillery consist of 9 companies, and
that each company consist of 65 non-commissioned officers
and matrosses, with the same number of commissioned offi-
cers as at present.
C8The draft reads "Four Regs, of mounted and dismounted dragoons."
1780] SIZE OF A REGIMENT 279
That each regiment of infantry [requested from the several
States shall] consist of 9 companies, and each company consist
of 64 non-commissioned officers and privates; and That the
regiment of artificers consist of 8 companies, and each com-
pany of 60 non-commissioned officers and privates: (one colo-
nel, one lieutenant colonel and one major, where the full
colonels are continued : or one lieutenant colonel commandant
and two majors, where the colonels59 are not continued: 9 cap-
tains, 22 subalterns, 1 surgeon, 1 surgeon's mate, 1 serjeant
major, 1 quartermaster serjeant, 45 Serjeants, 1 drum major,
1 fife major, 10 drums, 10 fifes, 612 rank and file: That there
be one captain and two subalterns to each company, and that
the four supernumerary subalterns shall each have the rank of
lieutenant, one of which is to reside in the State to which he be-
longs, to inlist and forward on recruits; one drum and one fife
from each regiment to attend the recruiting officer; the other
three supernumerary officers to do the duty of paymaster, quar-
termaster and adjutant, in their respective regiments.)60
and that the regiment of artificers consist of 8 companies, and
each company of 60 non-commission'd officers and privates:
(That the whole of the troops be inlisted during the war, and
join their respective corps by the first day of January next)60
That the several states furnish the following quotas, viz.
New Hampshire, 2 regiments of infantry; Massachusetts
Bay, 10 regiments of infantry and 1 of artillery; Rhode Island,
&c. 1 regiment of infantry; Connecticut, 5 regiments of infan-
try and 1 of cavalry; New York, 2 regiments of infantry and
1 of artillery; New Jersey, 2 regiments of infantry; Pennsyl-
vania, 6 regiments of infantry, 1 of artillery, 1 of cavalry, and
08 The draft has "full colonels."
80 The portion within the parentheses is from the resolves of Congress of Oct. 21 ,
1780.
280 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
i of artificers; Delaware, i regiment of infantry; Maryland,
5 regiments of infantry; Virginia, 8 regiments of infantry, i of
artillery, and 2 of cavalry; North Carolina, 4 regiments of in-
fantry; South Carolina, 2 regiments of infantry; Georgia, 1
regiment of infantry :
That the regiments of cavalry, and artillery, and of artificers,
as they now stand be considered as belonging to the states re-
spectively, to which they are or may be assigned, which state
shall compleat them to the full complement, supply them with
necessaries, and in every respect treat them as if originally
raised therein, and that such other states as now have non-
commissioned officers or privates in any of the regiments afore-
said, be credited in their quota's for such men, according to
their numbers, from time to time for which purpose the
Commander in Chief is hereby directed to specify such non-
commissioned officers and privates, and the states to which
they formerly belonged, in the returns which he shall make to
the states, and in his annual returns to Congress :
That the regiment61 commanded by Colonel Moses Hazen
be continued on its present establishment, and that all non-
commissioned officers and privates, being foreigners belong-
ing to any of the reduced regiments and corps be incorporated
therewith, and all volunteers from foreign states, who are now
in the service, or may hereafter join the American army be
annexed to the said regiment : 1 1
(That the Commander in Chief and commanding officer in
the southern department, direct the officers of each state to
meet and agree upon the officers for the regiments to be raised
by their respective states, from those who incline to continue
in service; and where it cannot be done by agreement, to be
"Second Canadian.
1780] HALF PAY AND BOUNTY 281
determined by seniority, and make return of those who are to
remain, which is to be transmitted to Congress, together with
the names of the officers reduced, who are to be allowed half
pay for life.
That the officers who shall continue in the service to the end
of the war, shall also be entitled to half pay during life, to com-
mence from the time of their reduction.)62
That the Officers at Camp be empowered and directed to
use every prudent measure and improve every favorable oppor-
tunity to inlist for the continuance of the War such of the Men
belonging to their respective States as are not engaged for that
period.
That two dollars be granted to the recruiting Officer for
every able bodied Soldier he shall inlist for the War, who shall
join the Army and that a sum not exceeding Fifty dollars be
allowed to every such Recruit.
That the Cloathing be furnished and regularly served out
to the troops as it becomes due and that a full compensation
be made for any arrearages of Cloathing.
The General directs that the Officers of the several lines will
meet accordingly and agree upon an arrangement as speedily
as may be, of the officers who remain in service and of those
who retire, reporting the same to Head Quarters. It is of course
to be understood, that none can retire with the benefit of the
provision here made, except such a number as exceeds that
which is required in the establishment of the regiments.
The General Officers of the respective lines will be pleased to
assist in these arrangements.63
u2The portion within parentheses is from the resolves of Congress of Oct. 21, 1780.
03 A draft of these General Orders, in die writing of Alexander Hamilton and Tench
Tilghman, is in the W ashington Papers. The parts in brackets show the variation of
the General Orders from the resolves of Congress of October 3, which are included
between ||s. (See also General Orders, Nov. 3, 1780.)
282 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
To GOVERNOR JONATHAN TRUMBULL
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, November i, 1780.
Dear Sir: I was yesterday honored with your Excellency's
favor of the 27th. ulto. The letters inclosed for the president
of Congress were immediately forwarded by Express. I am
happy in believing that the dispatches for which you are appre-
hensive were not in the Mail lately lost at Stratford as the new
Regulations for the Army were not compleated when that post
left Philadelphia. They were finished the 21st ulto. and I hope
will reach most of the Legislatures during their Fall Session.
I have the honor etc.
P. S. I transmitted Your Excellency some very important dis-
patches on the 1 8th: ulto. I hope they have got safe to hand.64
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Thursday, November 2, 1780.
Parole Kilkenny. Countersigns U., F.
Watchword Keep ready.
Brigadier General Irvine
Colonel Starr
For the day Tomorrows Lieutenant Colonel North
Major Maxwell
Brigade Major Woodbridge
A detachment to parade tomorrow morning 10 o'clock on
the Grand Parade furnished with Six days provisions and forty
rounds pr man.
The Troop 'till further orders to beat at nine o'clock the
Guards to be on the parade at Ten.
04 In the writing o£ Tench Tilghman. From the original in the Connecticut State
Library.
1780] WASTE OF STORES 283
Lieutenant John Meacham65 of the 3d Massachusetts regi-
ment is appointed Adjutant to the same from the 1st. of
August last vice Adjutant Burnham.66
To WILLIAM DENNING67
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 2, 1780.
Sir: I was a few days ago favored with yours of the 24th ulto.
I have not the least doubt but there is too general an inattention
to the care of Stores at most of our Magazines and distant
posts, but it is much to be regretted that the Deputies residing
at those places have so many plausible pretences for throwing
the ill condition of what are found in their possession, upon
those from whom they received them. In the Article of Flour
particularly, which is most subject to waste, the fault in a great
measure originates with the Miller, who is shamefully careless
of the make and security of the Casks.63 The notice however
which you have taken of what came under your own inspec-
tion, will I hope be attended with good effects, as it will put the
head of die department upon making inquiry into the appar-
ent causes of neglect, when you saw the provision, and giving
directions for more care in future. Colo. Stewart has always
appeared to me active and diligent in the prosecution of his
business, but it is probable that there may be want of conduct
in some of his Deputies. I can myself, in some measure, ac-
count for the condition of the Stores at Hackets and Pitts town
when you saw them. They had just then been removed in the
greatest hurry from Morris Town to avoid the destruction
61 He was cashiered in December, 1780.
68Lieut. Samuel Burnham, of the Third Massachusetts Regiment. He died in
March, 1782.
67 Commissioner of the Continental Treasury Board.
^Denning's letter of October 24, in the Washington Papers, described the condition
of the flour at Pittstown and Hackettstown, N. J., and Chester, N. Y.
284 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
with which they were threatened by the move of the Enemy
into Jersey. What the Deputy told you of the impossibility of
procuring Guards to secure and assist in storing the Provision
was absolutely true. Our strength has scarcely ever allowed of
making the necessary detachments for the safety of our Maga-
zines, but just at the time to which you refer, our whole col-
lected force in Jersey did not amount to one half of that of the
Enemy.
I shall take occasion to mention the substance of your infor-
mation to Colo: Stewart, and shall desire him to have matters
put under better regulations in future. I shall at the same time
let him know, that what you have done is not with an intent
of criminating him, but from what you very properly conceive
to be the duty of every good Citizen, to represent to the proper
authority what he sees amiss in public affairs. I am etc.69
To COLONEL CHRISTOPHER GREENE
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, November 3, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, your favr. of the 27th. ulto. As I have been
informed that the State agreed to allow the Levies higher pay
than the Continental Troops, I imagine they will take measures
to satisfy them at the end of their service, charging the Conti-
nent with the usual monthly allowance. The pay of the Army
is in arrear since March last. The treasury is making every
exertion to procure Money from the States, which I believe
they find difficult. This being the true situation of matters, I
can only recommend patience a while longer. If Mr. Reyn-
olds,70 the State Agent Cloathier, has a full supply upon hand
for the troops he may deliver out the yearly allowance to your
69In the writing of Tench Tilghman. From a photograph of the original in Wash-
ington's Headquarters and Museum, Newburgh, N. Y.
'"John Reynolds. He was Rhode Island State Agent for Clothing.
1780] REFORMATION OF ARMY 285
Regt. if he has not, he must give you your proportion and send
on the remainder without loss of time to Colonel Angells. I
can give no order respecting the Cloathing of Officers; Con-
gress having recommended it to the respective States to provide
for the supply of those belonging to them.
The Adjutant General has already transmitted you the Reg-
ulations for reforming the Army. You will see by them, the
mode which is pointed out for determining upon the Officers
who are to leave the service, and I doubt not but you will im-
mediately communicate with the Officers of Colo. Angells
Regt. upon the subject. When the Corps which is to form the
new Regiment is fixed upon, I shall probably draw the whole
to this Army. Should it fall to your lot to remain in service, I
cannot suppose that you would wish to go to the southward
without your Regiment, and I see little chance of its going to
that quarter.
I am very much pleased to hear of your good agreement
with the French Army. The General and other Officers have,
in their turn, expressed their approbation of your conduct on
every occasion. I am &c.
P. S. General Heath informed me that there were a quan-
tity of Military Stores at Rhode Island not very safely stored.
You will be pleased to see them removed to places where they
will be kept free from damage by weather or accident.71
To CAPTAIN JOHN HENDRICKS72
Head Quarters, Colonel Dey's, November 3, 1780.
Sir: His Excellency has heard, from several quarters, that an
embarkation, under the command of Sir Henry Clinton in
71 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
72 Of Elizabeth Town, N. J. He was an American secret agent.
286 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
person, is preparing at New York; but having no information
of the kind from you, he is somewhat dubious of it, as he thinks
a matter of such importance could not have escaped the obser-
vation of those you employ. You will be pleased to write to His
Excellency by return of the Express, and give him any intelli-
gence you may have gained. If you have not yet heard of the
embarkation, you are to take the speediest means of getting in-
formation; and if it should be so, of the force, the Corps of
which it is to consist, the time it is to sail, under whose com-
mand, the destination and the Convoy; all which you will
communicate the moment you receive the particulars. His
Excellency has never yet received an accurate account of the
Corps which composed the embarkation of the 16th: ulto.
though it always has been one of his particular instructions to
attend to that point. If you can get any information upon that
head, you will let him know it. It is of the utmost importance
that we should know with certainty, and speedily whether
there is any truth in the report of the present embarkation,
you will therefore exert yourself to find it out. I am etc.73
To REVEREND DIRCK ROMEYN74
Head Quarters, Colo. Dey's, November 3, 1780.
Sir: His Excellency General Washington has been informed,
within two days past, that another embarkation, under the
command of Sir Henry Clinton in person, is preparing at New
York. Should this be so, it is more than probable that you will
have heard something of it, as the Communication between
Hackensack and Bergen is frequent. You will be good enough
"The draft is in the writing of and is signed "T. Tilghman."
74 Of the Dutch Reformed Church, Hackensack, N. J.
1780]
LAND FOR OFFICERS 287
to let me know, by return of the Bearer, whether any thing of
the kind has come to your knowledge, with any particulars
which you may have collected. Should you at any time in fu-
ture gain any intelligence, which you may think material, you
will oblige His Excellency and render essential public service
by communicating it to him. I am etc.75
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Friday, November 3, 1780.
Parole Totowa. Countersigns Upton, West.
Watchword Watch.
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel Butler
For the Day Tomorrows Lieutenant Colonel Hay
Major Talbot
Brigade Major Oliver
Lieutenant Enos Reeves76 of the 10th. Pennsylvania Regi-
ment is appointed Quarter Master of the same vice Lieutenant
Joseph Banks77 from the 1st. Instant.
In the publication of the Extracts of the Resolves of Con-
gress of the 3d. and 21st. of October there was an omission of
part of that of the 3d. declaring that the retiring officers should
be entitled to land at the close of the war agreeable to the reso-
lution of the 16th. of September 1776; though the Resolution
of the 21st. is silent on this Article, the General has no doubt
that it remains in force.
75The draft is in the writing of and is signed "T. Tilghman, A. D. C."
He was transferred to the Second Pennsylvania Regiment in January, 1781, and to
the First Pennsylvania Regiment in January, 1783; served to November, 1783.
Lieut. Joseph Banks, of the Tenth Pennsylvania Regiment. He retired in January,
1781.
288 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Saturday, November 4, 1780.
Parole Congress. Countersigns Arms, Honor.
Watchword Generous.
Brigadier General Paterson
Colonel Tupper
• Lieutenant Colonel Sill
Major Throop
Brigade Major Ashley
For the Day Tomorrow
To PRESIDENT JOSEPH REED
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 4, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received information from New York that
a person who is called George Fustner,78 and who is Brother in
law to Rankin79 formerly of York County, comes frequently
out as a Spy by way of Shark River thro' Jersey and from thence
to Lancaster.80 He left New York the 27th. ulto. and is probably
at this time upon that Business. Your Excellency may perhaps,
from the foregoing Clue, have him intercepted upon some of
his Visits. There is also another person who goes by the feigned
name of John Staria or the Irish Dutchman, because he speaks
both languages, who goes constantly between New York and
Lancaster, accompanied by a lusty old Man called John Smith,
who serves as a guide to him. They lately carried 12 or 14
Recruits from Lancaster. I shall be happy should the above
78 Of Lancaster, Pa.
79James and John Rankin, of York County, Pa. Their property was confiscated hy
the State in 1779.
S0The warning to Washington came from the spy called "Littel D." through Capt.
John Hendricks.
1780]
BRITISH EMBARKATION 289
descriptions be sufficient to lead to the discovery of another
of the many Engines of this sort, which the enemy have at
work against us. I have the honor etc.81
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL
WILLIAM STEPHENS SMITH
Head Quarters, November 4, 1780.
Dr Sir: The subject on which you spoke to me yesterday did
not strike me in a proper point of view, which prevented my
immediately acquiescing in it; but on revolving the matter,
I perceive there can be no inconvenience, and wish exceedingly
it could take place. If more of the Lt Colonels of either of the
lines you mentioned are willing to retire than the establish-
ment will permit provided they could have the benefit of half
pay and not otherwise, in this case I see no objection to one of
them exchanging with you. It can make no difference in point
of expence to the public and it can injure none of the inferior
officers. But it must after all depend on the particular states
themselves, and on the officers themselves. If agreeable to both,
it will give me pleasure to see you provided for. I am etc.82
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Prackness, November 4, 1780.
Sir: I have received some late advices from New York that
speak of a large number of transports and other vessels which
are getting ready to sail, and of a second embarkation of troops
destined to the South. It is added that Rodney with a part of
his fleet is preparing to sail to the West-Indies; that he is to
81 In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
82 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
290 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
detach two ships of the line, the Sandwich and Terrible to con-
voy a homeward bound European fleet, which is to sail imme-
diately after the Cork fleet arrives.
The New York paper mentions the arrival of the troops un-
der General Leslie in Chesapeak Bay83 which intelligence is
said to be derived from one of our prizes.
It is with pleasure I can inform Congress that the commu-
nication of their late Resolutions relative to the new establish-
ment, has given general satisfaction and excited the gratitude
of the Army. I conceived it to be the spirit of both Resolu-
tions, that the retiring Officers should be entitled to Land after
the War and published it accordingly. I have the honor etc.84
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, November 4, 1780.
Sir: I have had the honor of receiving your several letters of
the 23rd. 27th. and 29th. I am happy to hear that the frigate
and our friend85 have taken their departure under such favour-
able auspices. I join with you in the warmest wishes for their
safety and expedition.
By recent advices, there appears to be a large fleet of trans-
ports &c. preparing at New York to sail, and it is added an-
other embarkation of troops is getting ready. It is also said,
83A copy of an intercepted letter from General Leslie to Lord Cornwallis, dated
Nov. 4, 1780, from Portsmouth, Va., was inclosed by Governor Jefferson in his letter
to Washington Nov. 10, 1780. In it Leslie stated he had taken post at Portsmouth
and awaited Cornwallis's orders. Leslie's letter is in the Washington Papers.
84 In the writing of Caleb Gibbs.
^Donatien Marie Joseph de Vimeur, Vicomte de Rochambeau, son of the comte,
went to France to report the result of the Hartford conference and urge the sending
of the second division of the French troops and fleet. He was colonel en second, Regi-
ment Bourbonnais; colonel commandant of the Regiment Saintonge in November,
1782; commandant of the Regiment Royal Auvergne in July, 1783.
1780] EXCHANGED OFFICERS 291
Rodney is preparing to sail to the West Indies with the greater
part of his fleet, and is to detach two ships the Terrible and
Sandwich, to convoy a homeward bound European fleet so
soon as the Cork fleet arrives.
The New York paper mentions the bringing in a prize that
gives an account of the arrival of the last detachment in Ches-
apeak-bay. I have the honor etc.86
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 4, 1780.
Gentlemen: The following Officers: Majors Tillard,87 Wood-
son,88 Darke,89 Captains Wyllis,90 Hays,91 Holston, Gilchrist,92
Snead,93 Culbertson,94 McDonald;93 Lieutenants Lucket,96
88 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
87Maj. Edward Tillard, of the Sixth Maryland Regiment. He had been captured at
Staten Island in August, 1777; appointed lieutenant colonel of the Fourth Maryland
Regiment in May, 1779; exchanged in October, 1780; retired in January, 1781.
^Tarleton Woodson, of the Second Canadian Regiment. He was captured at Staten
Island in August, 1777; exchanged in October, 1780; resigned in March, 1782.
89 William Darke, of the Eighth Virginia Regiment. He was captured at German-
town in October, 1777; exchanged in November, 1780; appointed lieutenant colonel
of the Fourth Virginia Regiment in February, 1781, ranking from November, 1777;
retired in January, 1783.
80Capt. John PlasgraveWyllys (Willis), of Webb's Additional Continental regiment.
91 John Hay, of the Ninth Virginia Regiment. He was captured at German town in
October, 1777; appointed major of the Third Virginia Regiment to rank from April,
1778; exchanged in October, 1780; retired in February, 1781.
02 George Gilchrist, of the Ninth Virginia Regiment. He was captured at German-
town in October, 1777; exchanged in November, 1780; retired in February, 1781.
93 Smith Snead, of the Ninth Virginia Regiment. He was captured at Germantown
in October, 1777; exchanged in November, 1780; transferred to the Second Vir-
ginia Regiment in February, 1781; served to the close of the war.
94 Samuel Culbertson, of the Pennsylvania battalion of the Flying Camp. He was
captured at Fort Washington in November, 1776; exchanged in November, 1780;
did not reenter the service.
95John McDonald, of the Pennsylvania battalion of the Flying Camp. He was cap-
tured at Fort Washington in November, 1776; exchanged in November, 1780; did
not reenter the service.
96 Lieut. Thomas Hussey Luckett, of Stephenson's Rifle Regiment. He was cap-
tured at Fort Washington in November, 1776; exchanged in November, 1780; did
not reenter the service.
292 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
Finley,97 Pendleton,98 George,99 and Myers1 have lately re-
turned from New York being exchanged, and are now upon
their way to their respective places of abode. The Military
Chest being totally exhausted, they will with difficulty be en-
abled to get as far as Philada. I must solicit you to procure them
a supply there, sufficient to carry them home. Their long and
patient sufferings entitle them to attention and to every assist-
ance in getting themselves and Baggage forward. I have the
honor etc.
P. S. There may perhaps be a few more Gentlemen than
those I have named in the same situation.2
To MAJOR BENJAMIN TALLMADGE
Head Quarters, November 4, 1780.
Dear Sir: You would oblige me by ascertaining as soon as
possible the following things:
The number of Troops and different Corps that composed
the last detachment which is supposed to have gone to the
South'd.
The truth of the present report of another Imbarkation tak-
ing place; when it will happen; and to what amount in Men
and Corps; and who is to comm. the detachment.
07 John H. Finley, of the Fifth Pennsylvania Regiment. Fie was captured at Fort
Washington in November, 1776; exchanged in October, 1780; did not reenter the
service.
88 Nathaniel Pendleton, of the Eleventh Virginia Regiment. He ranked as captain
from March, 1777; was captured at Fort Washington in November, 1776; exchanged
in October, 1780; aide to General Greene in November, 1780, to close of the war.
00 William George, of Stephenson's Rifle Regiment. He was captured at Fort Wash-
ington in November, 1776; appointed captain of the Eleventh Virginia Regiment in
March, 1777; retired on account of being a prisoner in September, 1778; exchanged
in November, 1780.
1Godfrey Meyer (Myers), of the Pennsylvania battalion of the Flying Camp. He
was captured at Fort Washington in November, 1776; exchanged in November, 1780;
did not reenter the service.
2 The draft is in the writing of Tench Til"hman.
1780] HOSPITAL PAY 293
The present disposition of the remaining Troops on Long
Island and York Island and the number at each place.
You cannot be too expeditious in your communications on
these heads; distinguishing between things certain and mat-
ters of mere report. I am etc.3
*To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Hd : Qrs. Passaic Falls, November 5, 1780.
Sir: Whenever a representation from any department of the
Army is made to me, and it is not in my power to resolve their
questions, or relieve their complaints, I have ever conceiv'd it
a part of my duty to refer the matter to Congress. This v/ill be
my apology for troubling them with the Inclosed Memorial
of the hospital Department; and requesting to know [at the
same time] how far the resolves of the 3d. and 21st. ulto. are to
be construed in favor of the Regimental Surgeons who are to be
reduced; the ascertaining of which, previous to the arrange-
ment, is become interesting to them, and the Subject of a
variety of applications to me.
As I do not know even, that Congress have it in contempla-
tion to exclude these Gentn. from the half pay establishment,
much less the principle (if it should take place) upon which
their determination is founded, I shall take the liberty of ob-
serving, that in the British Army, from whence most of our
rules and customs are derived, and in which long experience
and improvement has brought their System as near perfection
as in any other Service, the Surgeons of the hospital, and Regi-
mental Surgeons are, upon reduction, entitled to half pay. the
Mates in both, I believe, are not, whether a discrimination
3From a copy of the original in the possession (1935) of Mrs. S. C. Armstrong
Potter, of Forest Hills, N. Y., through the courtesy of William A. Swarts, of Forest
Hills.
294 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
therefore in the present instance, prejudicial to them, may not
work a greater evil than the saving will produce good, remains
with Congress to consider. The opinion I have given to these
Gentlemen [particularly the Memorialists] is,thattho' I would
wish to see no discrimination which can hurt their feelings, yet
upon a scale of equal justice I do not conceive that their preten-
sions to half of their present pay, is well supported by com-
parison with the Officers of the Line.
In the British Service, the pay of a Regimental Surgeon and
Lieutt., are the same, or nearly so. In ours, at the commencemt.
of the War, a Lieutts pay was 13V3 dollars pr. month, and the
Surgeons 25 dollars; whence this difference I shall not under-
take to determine; but presume it arose from two causes, a dif-
ficulty of getting men of abilities to serve for Lieutts. pay,
and because no perquisites were drawn by the Surgeons in our
Army; while those in the B. Service increased theirs by emolu-
ments to [a further sum equal to] the amount of their pay.
What the pay of the Hospital Surgeons in the British Service
is, I am not quite certain, but believe it to be equal to that of the
Captains. In ours it was double, and having progressed since,
I shd. as I have observed to these Gentn, think it unreasonable
that they should, at a reduction, receive half their present pay;
[I therefore gave it as my opinion that a half pay allowance
proportioned to that of the Officers of the line would be consist-
ent with the practice in other Armies and with the principles
of Justice and Policy.]
These being the Sentiments delivered to the Memorialists,
I take the liberty of annexing them to the Memorial, and with
due deference to the decision of Congress I remain etc.4
4 The words in brackets in the draft are in the writing of Tench Tilghman. The
letter sent, in the Papers of the Continental Congress, is in the writing of Tilghman,
and was read in Congress on November 1 1 and referred to Abraham Clark, Theo-
dorick Bland, and Ezekiel Cornell. The original memorial from the surgeons to
Washington is filed with the letter sent.
1780] FRONTIER MATTERS 295
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 5, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed, your several favors of the 18th: 30th:
and 31st: ulto. I congratulate you upon your safe return from
your late excursion, and upon the success which attended Gen-
eral Ransalaers5 attack upon the Enemy in their retreat. It is
to be regretted that your Excellency was not near enough with
the reinforcement to take advantage of their situation. The
damage, which has been done, will I fear be severely felt by
the public as well as by individuals. We had the most pleasing
prospects of forming considerable Magazines of bread from
the Country which has been laid waste, and which from your
Excellency's letter is so extensive, that I am apprehensive we
shall be obliged to bring Flour from the southward to support
the Troops at and near West point. You will be pleased to
give me your opinion upon the quantity of Flour that may
be yet, with probability, be procured above, in the course of
the Winter, that I may form some calculation of the quantity
which it will be necessary to draw from Jersey, Penna. and
Maryland.
I am very sorry that the troops of your State should look
upon it as a hardship to do the Garrison duty of Fort Schuyler.
I had always allotted it to them, as thinking it would be agree-
able to both Officers and Men to guard their own Frontier,
especially when they were not continued an unreasonable
time upon the tour. The Frontier posts of Penna. and Virginia
have been constantly garrisoned by their own Regs, which have
6 Brig. Gen. Robert van Rensselaer, of the New York Militia. A force of British
and Indians had raided the settlements on the Mohawk River and in the vicinity of
Forts George and Ann, but had been driven off. Want of discipline among Rens-
selaer's militia prevented a complete victory, and the enemy made good their retreat
before Governor Clinton arrived with his troops.
296 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
not been relieved these two years. The troops of the line in
general are, in point of Cloathing, upon a footing with the
rest of the Army, which is very bare, and which has a poor
prospect of being well supplied. But as Colo. Weissenfelds
Regt. is going to a distance and where he will not have an
opportunity of drawing those temporary supplies which the
troops with the main Army sometimes do, I have given orders
to have it well furnished as our scanty Magazines will admit.
I have appointed Brig. Genl. Clinton to take the command
in the Northern department, and have ordered him to repair
to Albany for that purpose. I am convinced he will second
every measure which may be thought expedient for the secu-
rity of the Frontier. I am much obliged to your Excellency for
the attention which you promise to pay to the provisioning
Fort Schuyler. I daily expect four or five hundred Barrels of
Salt Beef from Connecticut, as soon as they arrive upon the
North River, part of them shall be sent up to Albany for
the garrison of Fort Schuyler. I desired Governor Trumbull to
hurry them on, that they might be got up in all this month.
I am very happy to find that the Legislature have vested
your Excellency with the power of complying with the requi-
sitions of Congress for compleating the new Army. I find that
the Resolve of the 3d. of October had only reached you, and
that your calculation of the deficiency of 313 Men had been
founded upon that. Congress, by a subsequent Act of the 21st.,
have made some very material and salutary amendments, the
principal of which are, giving half pay for life to the Officers,
confining the terms of Service expressly to the War, and aug-
menting the number of Men in each Regt. to 612 Rank and
File. I therefore state your exact deficiency at 449 Men, upon
the following principles
1780]
NEW YORK'S DEFICIENCY 297
2 Regiments of Infantry, Rank and F 1224
1 Regt. Artillery non Commd. and private 650
1874
Rank and File for the War by Return
transmitted 1121
Already in Lambs Regt. which is the one
which will be apportioned to the State 304
1425
deficiency . . . 449
This your Excellency will be pleased to observe is the defi-
ciency in figures ; but when we come to take into the compu-
tation the casualties that will happen between this time and
the junction of the Recruits, the number of Men sick in Hos-
pitals and upon extra service, many of the first incurables, and
of the last so detached that we shall never find them, the defi-
ciency which there ever will be in the number of Recruits voted,
and other unforeseen deductions, it will appear plainly that if
the assessment is laid at 449 only, the Regiments will want
very considerably of that Strength which is absolutely neces-
sary to make our combined Continental force any ways ade-
quate to the probable services of the next Campaign. I would
therefore beg leave to recommend to your Excellency to lay
your assessment at 100 Men more than the apparent deficiency.
I am convinced it will be found cheaper and in. every respect
more eligible to complete the matter at one stroke, than to have
a second tax to lay.
Our Affairs to the southward put on a more pleasing aspect
since the defeat of Colo. Ferguson. Lord Cornwallis was re-
treating precipitately from Charlotte and giving up a fine dis-
trict of Country which he had in possession. But the diversion
298 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
which Genl. Leslie will occasion by taking post in Virginia
will I fear operate against the formation of the southern Army
and will embarrass us on the score of supplies. Another em-
barkation is preparing at New York, which I have no doubt
is also intended for the southward, as without considerable
reinforcements, they must abandon their late conquests in that
quarter. I have the honor etc.6
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Prackness, November 5, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have been favoured successively with your letters
of the 30th. and 31st. Ulto. and the 1st. and 2d. inst. Inclosed
you will receive a warrant for the money due on your account.
In respect to the removal of the chain, I am of opinion it
ought neither to be taken up too soon, nor suffered to remain
too late, I could wish you to have every thing in readiness by
the time you mention, and shall speak to Colo. Tupper on the
subject.
Previous to yours of the 1st. Inst. I had requested you, to
use your discretion in the execution of such of the prisoners
under sentence of death, as you considered proper objects for
Capital punishment.
I have written to His Excellency Govr. Clinton on the sub-
jects of your Letter of the 2d. I am etc.
P. S. Since writing the foregoing, your favr. of the 3d. has
come to hand. Necessity must justify your breaking in upon
the reserved Flour. One hundred Barrels will go from hence
or Morris Town in the Morning, and you shall constantly have
a part of what little we get. I would have you by all means
press the Eastern States to send forward their supplies. It is
6 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. The original was in the New
York State Library.
1780] CLOTHING AND STORES 299
the States we must apply to and not to Commissaries, who are,
upon the present establishment, merely receivers of Stores.
I have myself written to Governor Clinton. I will consider
and give an answer upon Spencers7 case. In the mean time
have him well secured.8 [ms.h.s.]
To BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES CLINTON
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 5, 1780.
Dear Sir : Be pleased to order the Regimental Pay Master and
Cloathier of Colo. Weissenfelds Regt. to repair to New Burgh
for a supply of Cloathingfor the Regiment. If it does not reach
them before their march from Schenectady to Fort Schuyler,
it may follow them up. I have directed the Cloathier to give
them as full a supply as our Store will admit, as they will be
at a distance, and will not have opportunities of obtaining
temporary aids.
His Excellency the Governor promises to give every assist-
ance in procuring provision for Fort Schuyler. You will be
pleased to make that a primary object, and endeavour to have
the supply thrown in, in the course of this Month. I am &c.
P. S. The Levies are not to be included in the Cloathing
Returns.9
To COLONEL CHARLES ARMAND-TUFFIN
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 5, 1780.
Sir: By the establishment of the Army, agreeable to the
Resolve of Congress of the 21st: October, the partisan Corps
under your command is to consist of three troops of mounted
'Ensign Hazleton Spencer, of the Second Battalion, King's Royal Regiment, British
Provincial Troops.
8In the writing of Caleb Gibbs; the P. S. is in that of Tench Tilghman.
"In the writing of Tench Tilghman. From a photostat of the original kindly fur-
nished by Dr. A. S. W. Rosenbach, of New York City.
300 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
and three of dismounted Dragoons of 50 each. They are to
be officered by my appointment subject to the approbation of
Congress. I am also authorised to direct a mode for compleat-
ing, recruiting and supplying the Corps. As to the latter, I
shall give it as my opinion to Congress that there is no other
mode but to furnish the Commanding Officer with Money to
purchase Horses and inlist Men in the States at large, and
to direct the Board of War or Cloathier General to procure a
regular and full supply of the Cloathing allowed to Officers
and Men, and also of the necessary Arms and Accoutrements
for the Horse and Foot. The term of inlistment is for the War
only, and the Bounty 50 dollars of the new Emission to each
recruit, and 2 dollars to the recruiting Officer upon delivering
the Man to the Corps. If you purchase your own Horses, the
price which you are to be allowed to give must be fixed by
Congress or the Board of War.
I do not know what number of Officers will be necessary to
compleat you to the present establishment, allowing 1 Captain
and 2 subs to each Company and Troop. I therefore wish you
to make me an immediate return of the names and Ranks of
the Officers at present in Commission, with the names of any
who are willing to accept new appointments. A regard for
the reputation of your Corps will make you careful of recom-
mending none to me but Gentlemen upon whom you can
depend. Iam&c.10
To DAVID BROOKS11
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 5, 1780.
Sir: The Regimental pay Master and Cloathier of Colo.
Weissenfelds Regt. will apply to you for a supply of Cloath-
10The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. The same letter was sent to
Maj. Henry Lee.
"Deputy Clothier General, at Newburgh, N. Y.
1780] CLOTHING 301
ing for that Regt. You will deliver him a suit of Cloaths pr.
Man; two shirts; two pair of stockings and two pair of shoes
each if your stock will admit of it, as they are going to a dis-
tant post and will not have another opportunity of drawing
before Spring. Iam&c.12
*To CHEVALIER DE LA LUZERNE
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 5, 1780.
Sir: I have the honor to return your Excellency the plan of
the lines at Charles-town, which you were so obliging as to
favor me with a copy of.
I hope you arrived in good health and without accident at
Philadelphia. With great consideration and personal attach-
ment I have the honr. etc.13
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Sunday, November 5, 1780.
Parole Establishment. Countersigns V., G.
Watchword To Arms!
Brigadier General Wayne
Colonel Craig
Lieutenant Colonel Johnston
Major Hamilton14
Brigade Major Darby
MORNING ORDERS
Major Knapp is appointed Field Officer of the day, for this
day, vice Major Throop, furloughed.
12 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
From a photostat of the original in the Paris Archives, Aff. Etratig., Mems. et
Docs., E. U., vol. 6.
"Maj. James Hamilton, of the Second Pennsylvania Regiment. He retired in
January, 1783.
For the day Tomorrow
For the Day Tomorrow
302 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Monday, November 6, 1780.
Parole Prussia. Countersigns Plenty, Peace.
Watchword Look up.
Brigadier General Huntington
Lieutenant Colonel commandant
Butler
Lieutenant Colonel Holdridge
Major T. L. Moore
Brigade Major Pettingal.
The Honorable the Board of war having called for a Return
of all officers holding military rank who are not adopted by or
considered as belonging to any State in order that means may
be fallen upon to make good the depreciation of their former
pay, A Return of all those who come under the above descrip-
tion is to be made to the Adjutant General by the 1st. day of
December next; but as some Officers who are interested in the
foregoing may be at too great a distance to send in their names
by the above time, they are requested to do it as soon as possible
afterwards, not exceeding the 1st. day of January next.
The General has just received information that Colonel Og-
den and Captain Dayton who were in Elizabeth Town, were
taken last night in their beds by the Enemy. A convincing
proof that they have the most minute intelligence of every thing
that passes in that place and that it is dangerous for an officer
(except with a guard or under sanction of a flag) to remain
there during the night; He has assured the Officers in General
Orders that if any of them are taken out of the line of their
duty and by their own imprudence that their Exchanges shall
be postponed while there is an officer remaining in Captivity
1780] STRAGGLERS 303
of their rank. He again repeats this in most solemn terms, with
this further declaration that whenever they are exchanged,
they shall be arrested and a full investigation had into the cir-
cumstances of their capture. The General means this as a cau-
tion to the army, not as a reflection upon the present conduct
of Colonel Ogden who he has reason to believe was in the exe-
cution of business by proper authority : He is yet uninformed
of the reason of Captain Dayton's being at Elizabeth-town.
It is with infinite regret the General is obliged once more to
take notice of the disorderly conduct of the soldiers arising in
a great measure from the abuse of passes: the whole country is
overspread with straggling soldiers with the most frivolous
pretences, under which they commit every species of robbery
and plunder. In a ride he took the other day he found soldiers
as low as Aquakanung bridge on both sides of the river and as
far as he has ever yet gone round the environs of camp the
roads and farm houses are full of them. To remedy these evils
and to have the army ready for any sudden emergency the Gen-
eral does in most express and positive Terms forbid all but
General Officers, and Officers commanding Regiments to grant
passes; and not more than eight from a regiment are to be
given by the latter in a day, and those only to Soldiers of orderly
conduct.
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 6, 1780.
Dear Sir: The moment I reed, yours of the 3d. I gave orders
to Genl. Heath to detach the remaining three Regiments of
the York Brigade to Albany there to put themselves under the
command of Brig Genl. Clinton who has orders to dispose of
them as circumstances may require. Should you receive any
304 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
information that they are not necessary above, you will be
pleased to communicate it to General Heath, that their march
may be countermanded.
Your Excellency will perceive by the inclosed to Genl. Schuy-
ler, under flying seal, that I have given discretionary powers to
seize and secure a certain person,15 should it, upon further in-
vestigation of circumstances appear necessary. I am etc.10
To PHILIP SCHUYLER
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 6, 1780.
Dear Sir : Your favr. of the 31st. ulto. and 1st. instant was this
day forwarded to me by His Excellency Governor Clinton.
I immediately ordered Genl. Heath to detach the three remain-
ing Regiments of the York Brigade, if he could conveniently
spare them all to Albany, where they will receive further or-
ders from Brigadier Genl. Clinton. Should any intelligence
which you may receive make it unnecessary for these troops to
advance, you will communicate it to Genl. Heath.
I confess, all circumstances and previous informations con-
sidered, that matters in a certain quarter carry a very suspicious
face.17 Should it appear, upon a further investigation, that there
are good grounds for present suspicions, you will concert meas-
ures with Brig. Genl. Clinton, (to whom I have written upon
the subject without mentioning names) to seize and secure,
with as much secrecy and as suddenly as possible, the person
in question18 with his papers. You know how very delicate a
Business this is, and I therefore trust to your prudence in the
"Col. Ethan Allen.
16 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. The original was in the New
York State Library.
17 Col. Ethan Allen's suspected negotiations with the British.
18 Allen.
1780] FRONTIER DEFENSE 305
execution of it. Nothing but the most palpable proofs ought to
warrant the seizure of his person; but a variety of means may
be fallen upon to circumvent and defeat their plans, when you
have a regular force to depend upon. I shall not order down
Gansevoorts' Regt. while there appears occasion for them.
Colo. Hamilton went to Philada. the day before yesterday,
but will be back the latter end of this Week, when he returns,
I will communicate what you desire to him.19 I am &c.20
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Prackness, November 6, 1780.
Dear Sir: By advices just received from Governor Clinton
and General Schuyler it appears that the enemy are in very
considerable force upon the Lake, and seem to threaten the
destruction of the Northern Frontier. You will therefore be
pleased immediately to detach the remainder of the New York
Brigade, or as great a part as you can conveniently spare to
Albany with direction to the eldest Officer to take his orders
there from Brigr. Genl. Clinton. I am &c.
P. S. Should you receive any Certain intelligence from the
Govr., Genl. Clinton, or Genl. Schuyler that the enemy have
gone off you need not send up the Troops.21 [ ms. h. s. ]
To BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES CLINTON
Head Quarters, Prackness, November 6, 1780.
Dear Sir: From the advices which I have this day received
from the Governor and General Schuyler, I have directed
19 Schuyler's inability to answer Hamilton's letter from lack of writing paper.
"This is the last Sheet of paper I have." — Schuyler to Washington, Oct. 31-Nov. 1,
1780. Schuyler's letter is in the Washington Papers.
20 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
21 In the writing of Caleb Gibbs.
306 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
General Heath to detach the remainder of the New York Bri-
gade or such part as he can conveniently spare to Albany, you
will dispose of them as there may be occasion.
From some circumstances there is reason to apprehend
Treachery in the Northern Quarter. I have therefore desired
General Schuyler to consult with you and upon a further in-
vestigation if it should appear necessary to secure a certain
person,22 you are to concert measures for having him appre-
hended suddenly and sent down the Country under a proper
guard. You need not be cautioned against lisping the most
distant hint of this business. I am &c.
P. S. Should you receive intelligence that the enemy have
gone oil before the Troops reach Albany you will take the
speediest method of meeting and Countermanding them.23
[N. y. h. s.]
To MAJOR JAMES RANDOLPH REID
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 6, 1780.
Sir: In consequence of your letter of the 3d. I have written
to Colo. Hazen and desired him to let me know how it hap-
pens that his return of the date of your Commission differs
from that which you alledge to be the time at which you were
intitled to your Majority. I am &c.24
To COLONEL MOSES HAZEN
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 6, 1780.
Sir : I have reed, your f avr. of the 28th : ulto. respecting the
Canadian prisoners. I have a letter from Major Reid com-
plaining that, in a Return of the Officers of your Regt. made
22 Col. Ethan Allen.
23 In the writing of Caleb Gibbs.
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] HOSPITAL MEMORIAL 307
by you to the Board of War, you have made a false return of
the date of his Commission, which he alledges ought to be in
June 1777. This is a matter of which I am altogether ignorant,
but as Major Reid has made a representation to me upon the
subject, I am under the necessity of calling upon you to know
the reason of the difference between his claim and your Re-
turn. Iam&c.25
To DOCTOR JOHN COCHRAN
Head Quarters, November 6, 1780.
Sir : I have thrown my sentiments, upon the subject of the rep-
resentation made by yourself and other Gentlemen of the Hos-
pital, into the form of a letter to Congress. If you can reconcile
my plan to your own feelings, you will be pleased to seal and
forward the letter by Doer. Craik. If not, you will return it to
me again, that I may transmit as much only as relates to the
Regimental Surgeons. I am &c.26
To GOVERNOR ABNER NASH
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 6, 1780.
Sir: I had the honor Yesterday to receive Your Excellency's
Letter of the 6th of Octobr. and am extremely obliged to you
for the intelligence contained in it.
It is of so great importance that the earliest and best intelli-
gence of all the great Movements and designs of the Enemy, as
well as of the situation of our own affairs, should be obtained,
that I must entreat you will be so good as to favor me with such
communications as may have any influence on our Military
Arrangements and Operations.
25 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
26 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. (See Washington's letter to the
President of Congress, Nov. 5, 1780, ante.)
308 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
While I sincerely lament the distressed and exhausted situa-
tion of the Southern States, I cannot but hope the Enemy have
committed themselves so far as to be made to repent their
temerity; especially since I have received information of a
more recent date than Your Letter, of the success of the Militia
against Col Ferguson: this I flatter myself will give a better
aspect to your affairs, and will awaken more extensively that
spirit of bravery and enterprise which displayed itself so con-
spicuously on the occasion.
The Enemy seem again to have adopted the same system of
policy they have before prosecuted with but too much success,
of making Detachments to the Southward; at a time when our
Army is greatly reduced by the expiration of the service of
the Levies who were raised for the Campaign only ; besides the
Detachment under Genl Leslie, which has landed in Virginia,
it is reported another embarkation is taking place at New York.
But I have great confidence in the exertion of the Southern
States when their all is at Stake, and in the abilities of General
Greene to call forth and apply the resources of the Country in
the best and most effectual manner to its defence. Major Gen-
eral the Baron Steuben, who accompanies him, possesses the
most distinguished military talents, and has rendered signal
service to this Army as Inspector General. Major Lee has also
marched to join the southern Army with his Legion. The Ar-
rival of a reinforcement in New York, nearly equal to the late
detachment, and the incursion of a large force, (of which I
have just reed, intelligence) from Canada on the Northern and
Western Frontiers of the State of New York where great devas-
tation has already been committed, will I fear render it impos-
sible to make any farther Detachments from this Army to the
Southward. I have the honor etc.27
' The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
1780] COINAGE OF PLATE 309
To MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE
Head Quarters, November 6, 1780.
My Dear Marquis : As you are in a fixed Camp, you can make
your trial and punishment as summary as need be ; and where
the latter can be inflicted legally, it is to be preferred. I there-
fore advise you, to order a Court Martial to be convened imme-
diately for the trial of the Culprits; and, if they are condemned
to have one or two of the greatest offenders immediately
executed.
The Measures you are about to pursue to stop this licentious
spirit, I much approve and wish you to carry them into
execution.
I shall put something in Orders to day respecting passes &c.
I am etc.28
To HENRY BABCOCK29
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 7, 1780.
Sir: I have received your favor of the 24th of October, and
have to observe on the Subject, that the plan suggested, for pay-
ing and supplying the Army and prosecuting the War with
vigor, would undoubtedly be eligible, if practicable; how far
this is, or is not the case, I cannot take upon myself to determine.
Should the scheme in contemplation be carried into execu-
tion: whether it would be most advantageous to have the Plate
coined and thrown into circulation, or made the basis of a Bank
to support our Credit, might be made a question. But that this
aid (if well disposed of) with other vigorous and decisive meas-
ures for drawing out the resources of the Country, would have
^The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys. (See General Orders, Nov.
6, 1780.)
29 Of Hartford, Conn.
310 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
a powerful influence, in retrieving our affairs, disconcerting
those of the Enemy, and inducing them to wish for a peace:
does not admit of a single doubt, [the adoption of the plan
spoken of by you might give a credit to the public virtue of this
Country at Foreign Courts that would be attended with im-
portant advantages to us.] I am etc.30
To JEREMIAH WADSWORTH
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 7, 1780.
Dear Sir: Since my return from Hartford I have made partic-
ular inquiry respecting the Canadians who addressed a Petition
to me while at that place ; upon this investigation it appears that
the Persons in question, after being exchanged by the Enemy as
Prisoners of War; were retaken in the Gulph of St. Lawrence
by some of our Cruisers and ought to be detained as Prisoners
until duly exchanged.
I shall give directions to Mr. Skinner Commissy Genl of
Prisoners to take proper charge of them. I am &c.31
To CAPTAIN JUDAH ALDEN32
Head Quarters, November 7, 1780.
Sir: I have received your Letter of the 5th.33 by the Serjt.
who conducted the deserters to this place.
The idea of an Enemys sending a flag by a post of the adverse
party into what they call their own lines, is very preposterous
30 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys. The portion in brackets is in
the writing of Washington. "I have . . . proposed that the whole Plate of the Con-
tinent be surrendered up by it's Inhabitants, and Coined for the Publick Use. . . .
We by our Census have 38,472 Vi oz. of Plate." — Babcoc\ to Washington, Oct. 24,
1780. Babcock's letter is in the Washington Tapers.
31 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
32 Of the Second Massachusetts Regiment. He served to November, 1783.
33 From Dobbs Ferry, N. Y.
1780] AMBUSCADE FEARED 311
and inadmissible. I would not advise that any flag of truce be
permitted to go beyond your Post for any purpose whatever.34
However desirable it might be to intercept the provisions
which are forwarded to the Enemy on the East side of the
River, I cannot consent you should run the hazard of detach-
ing any of Your Garrison for fear the Enemy should have in-
telligence by their emissaries and form an ambuscade for the
party; or seize the opportunity of their absence and possess
themselves of the Post. On the contrary, I must recommend
your utmost vigilance and attention to prevent the possibility
of a surprise. I am &c.35
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Prackness, November 7, 1780.
Sir: I have been honored with your Excellency's favor of the
1st. Inst, and am happy to find that my appointment of Major
General Greene, to the command of the Southern Army,
meets the approbation of Congress.
Congress having been pleased, by their Act of the 21st. ulto.,
to authorise me to direct a mode for compleating, recruiting
and supplying the partizan Corps to be commanded by Colo.
Armand and Major Lee; I beg leave to suggest the propriety of
incorporating the remainder of the men of Count Pulaski's
legion, and as many of the Officers as there are Vacancies for,
into Colo. Armands Corps, and should there be still a defi-
ciency, that he should be furnished with money and allowed
to recruit in the States at large; Major Lee to be furnished
with Money also, and allowed the same Liberty in order to
compleat his Corps to the new establishment. The purchase of
34 A schooner from New York, under a flag of truce, came up the river, bound for
Sing Sing (now Ossining), to transport three families and their effects back to
the city.
35 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
312 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
horses should, I think, be left to the commanding Officers of the
Corps, because, they being interetsed in the matter, will be care-
ful to purchase none but such as are able and in every respect
qualified for the service, whereas, we have always found that
when the business has been intrusted to public Agents, they
have made a job of the matter, and have furnished horses not fit
for common hacks. Congress, may if they please, limit the prices
to a generous allowance in specie or an equivalent in the circu-
lating Medium. The Board of War and Cloathier Genl. should
be directed to procure regular and full supplies, annually, of the
Cloathing allowed to both Officers and men, and of the Arms
and Accoutrements for the Horse and foot. Upon this plan, I
am of opinion that both Corps may be quickly compleated, and
constantly kept upon a respectable footing.
I do not find any notice taken of the Engineering depart-
ment, (which includes the Corps of Sappers and Miners), in
the establishment of the Army, by the Resolves of the 3d. and
21st. ulto. The Gentlemen in that department are somewhat
uneasy, at seeing no mention made of them in the general
establishment, and altho' I do not imagine that it was the intent
of Congress to abolish so necessary and valuable a Military
Branch, I could wish, for the satisfaction of the Gentlemen in
it, that there might be something more explicit, especially as
several of them are Foreigners of distinction, who say that it
will have an odd appearance abroad, to see an American Mili-
tary establishment of which they are part, but not publicly
acknowledged.
By letters from Governor Clinton I find that the enemy have
gone off for the present from the Mohawk River, after totally
destroying the Country as low down as Schoharie. Those upon
the Northern quarter had repassed Lake George, and were
again proceeding towards St. Johns, but Suddenly returned
with a reinforcement, and were, by accounts from Genl.
1780] GRAIN SUPPLY 313
Schuyler of the ist. inst: assembled in so considerable a force
at Ticonderoga, that I have thought proper to send up the
remainder of the New York Brigade, from West Point to
Albany, that they may be ready to act as circumstances may
require. The destruction of the Grain upon the Western Fron-
tier of the State of New York is likely to be attended with the
most allarming consequences, in Respect to the formation of
Magazines upon the North River. We had prospects of estab-
lishing a very considerable Magazine of Flour in that quarter,
previous to the late incursion. The settlement of Schoharie
only would have delivered 80,000 Bushels of Grain, but that
fine district is now totally destroyed. I should view this calam-
ity with less concern, did I see the least prospect of obtaining
the necessary supplies of flour from the States of Pennsylvania,
Delaware, and Maryland, previous to the interruption of trans-
portation by frost and bad roads. This is a matter to which
I beg leave to call the most immediate and serious attention of
Congress, as without their intervention with those States, and
urging, nay insisting upon their furnishing a supply in time
to have it brought into the State of Jersey by the latter end of
this month, I foresee the distressed situation to which the
Troops must be reduced in their Winter Cantonments, more
especially those in the vicinity of West Point, and who will be
the greatest part of the Army in this quarter. I have repeatedly
written myself to those States, but have received nothing but
promises, which I cannot find, from the Commissary, have
been complied with. Some of the Troops in Garrison at West
Point had been lately six days without bread, and were at
length obliged to break in upon a [small] reserve which, [with
much difficulty, I had obtained and] ordered to be kept in
each work, in case of sudden investiture. I cannot learn that
we have at this late period one thousand Barrels of flour be-
tween this place and Philadelphia.
314 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
While our Army is experiencing almost daily want, that of
the enemy at New York is deriving ample supplies from a
trade with the adjacent States of New York, New Jersey and
Connecticut, which has, by degrees, become so common, that
it is hardly thought a Crime. It is true there are in those States,
Laws imposing a penalty upon this criminal commerce, but it
is either so light or so little attended to, that it does not prevent
the practice. The Marketts of New York are so well supplied,
that a great number of mouths, which would otherwise be fed
from the public Magazines, are now supported upon the fresh
Meats and flour of the Country, by which means, the enemy
have been often enabled to bear the disappointments of the
arrival of their provision Fleets, without much inconvenience,
and if report be true, they would, at this very time, experi-
ence distress, for want of their long expected Irish Fleet,36 if
the resources of the Country were effectually cut off from
them. This cannot be done by military measures alone, except
in case of Blockade or Seige, [and much less will it be in my
power to do it, with our Army, in the weak state it is verging
to.] I believe that most nations make it capital for their sub-
jects to furnish their enemy s with provisions and Military
Stores during a War, was this done by the several States, and
the laws put rigidly in execution in a few instances, the prac-
tice would be stopped. Without something of the kind, the
enemy will, while they have a species of Money of superior
value to ours, find little difficulty of making up the losses which
they every now and then meet with at sea, and which would
very much embarrass their operations, had they no immediate
mode of making good the deficiency.
I have the pleasure to inform Congress, that at the late meet-
ing of the respective Commissaries, the exchanges of about one
30 The supply fleet from Cork.
1780] EXCHANGE SUCCESS 315
hundred and forty of our Officers and all our privates in New
York amounting to 476, were effected. Among the former are
Major General Lincoln, Brigr. Generals Thompson, Waterbury
and Du Portail and Lt. Colo. Laurens. Sir Henry Clinton
having made a proposal of exchanging a further number of the
Convention Officers, without attaching Men to them, I have
acceeded to it; by which we shall liberate all our Officers in
this quarter, except one Brigr. General (Irvine) Nine Colonels,
one Captain, and thirty nine Lieutenants. An Offer is made by
Sir Henry Clinton to exchange all those for a division of the
Convention Troops, by Composition, where Rank will not ap-
ply; to this I have refused to accede except Lieut. General Bur-
goyne is made an object. If they will agree to this, he alone
will liberate nearly the whole of them. They have further pro-
posed a general exchange of the Convention Troops, Officers
and men, for our prisoners of War to the Southward. I have
not thought proper to enter at all upon the business of southern
prisoners, because I have but a very imperfect state of them,
and because I perceive, by the powers granted to Major Gen-
eral Greene, that he is at Liberty to negotiate the exchanges of
prisoners in that quarter.
I have no further certain accounts of the embarkation men-
tioned in mine of the 4th. inst. but I have still reason to think
that such a measure is in contemplation. I have the honor etc.
P. S. I have Just received the inclosed extract from Genl.
Heath it is the latest account from the Northward and serves
to show the small dependance which ought to be placed upon
provision from that quarter.37
'In the writing of Caleb Gibbs. The words in brackets are in the writing of
Washington. The letter was read in Congress on November 13 and referred to James
Duane, John Henry, and Ezekiel Cornell.
An extract of Heath's letter to Washington (November 7) is filed with this letter
from Washington in the Papers of the Continental Congress. The original is in the
Washington Papers.
316 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 7, 1780.
Gentlemen : I am honored with yours of the 31st. ulto. in con-
sequence of which I yesterday issued a General Order of which
the inclosed is a Copy. I was induced to give so considerable
an extent of time to the operations of the order, because many
of the Officers who are the objects of it, are at a distance from
the Main Army.
I shall be obliged by your care of the inclosed for Major
Genl. Greene, Colo. Armand, and Major Lee. Should they
have left Philada. be pleased to forward them to the South-
ward, by Express. I would wish that to General Greene to
reach him as speedily as possible as it contains a Certificate of
Genl. du portail's exchange and a passport for him to return
by land. You will also be pleased to forward the letter for
Colo. Wood with dispatch. It contains an order to send for-
ward a number of the Officers of Convention who have been
exchanged at a late meeting of the respective Commissaries.
We have at length liberated all our privates in New York and
all our Officers upon Long Island, except Brig. Irvine, nine
Colonels, one Captain and thirty Nine Lieutenants. I have
the honor etc.38
*To EDMUND RANDOLPH
Hd. Qrs. Passaic Falls, November 7, 1780.
Dr. Sir: The Inclosed will make the third letter I have writ-
ten to Mr. Nicholas within twelve Months upon an interesting
matter to Colo. Fairfax, without receiving any answer. As I
am convinced a miscarriage of my letters, and not inattention
in him is the cause of it, I take the liberty of addressing the
38 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] PAST DISTRESSES 317
inclosed to your care ; and shall thank you for the bare acknowl-
edgement of it.
At this moment, we are in a disagreeable state of suspence
respecting the military operation's to the Southward; having
heard almost in the same breath, that Leslie had made a landing
in Virginia (in more than one place) and [had] re-imbarked
with precipitation, owing it is said, to the retreat of Lord Corn-
wallis; which is again attributed to a considerable force of
French or Spanish Troops having Landed in his rear. A con-
firmation of these reports wholly, or in part, would be very
acceptable.
The military harvest which the early part of this Campaign
promised to yield us has vanished as the morning dew. leaving
not a trace behind it, but disappointment and sorrow and the
recollection of past distresses. Congress, at length, have re-
solved to do that, which an adoption of four years ago, would
'ere this have put an end to the War and left us in peace under
our own vines and fig trees. I mean the raising of an Army for
the War; but now there are wanting many concomitants to
bring about this event; among which, placing our finance
upon a proper footing is not the least difficult.
The Wisdom of the States, and all their exertions should be
called forth to effect these great ends; for well convinced I am,
till we get an army for the War, and proper funds to support it
we never shall obtain an honourable Peace ; but must sink under
the Expence of temporary enlistmts. and thr. attendant evils.
I should be glad to know if a letter of mine, to you, dated the
12th. of April last,39 on the affairs of Colonel Mercer and his
mortgages ever reached your hands? and if it did what has
been done in consequence of it ? My best respects to Mrs. Ran-
dolph. With much truth and Affection I am etc.
"Not now found in the Washington Papers.
318 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
*To ROBERT CARTER NICHOLAS
Hd. Qrs., Passaic Falls, November 7, 1780.
Dear Sir : As I am perswaded that the letters, of which the
inclosed are copies, never reached your hands, I take the liberty
of forwarding a duplicate of the last, and triplicate of the first,
with the Inclosures it refers to.
Since mine of March to you, I have been favoured with a
third letter from our good friend Colo. Fairfax, copy of which
I also send; and should be happy in knowing that you had ac-
cepted the appointment he mentions, in ordr. that I might
direct all his Papers to be carefully packed up, and sent to you.
I hope, I trust, that no act of Legislation in the State of Vir-
ginia has affected, or can affect, the property of this Gentn.
otherwise than in common with that of every good, and well
disposed Citizen of America. It is a well known fact that his
departure for England was not only antecedent to the present
rupture with Great Britain, but before there was the most dis-
tant prospect of a serious dispute with that Country, and if it
is necessary to adduce proof of his attachment to the interests
of America since his residence there and of the aid he has
given to many of our distressed Countrymen in that Kingdm.
abundant instances may be produd. not only by the Gentn.
alluded to in his letter of Deer. 5th. 1779, but by others that
are known to me, and on whm. justice to Colo. Fairfax will
make it necessary to call, if occasion should require the facts
to be ascertd.
About the time of my writing to you in March last, I com-
municated the contents of Colo. Fairfax's Letter of the 3d. of
Augt. 1778 to Colo. Lewis, and received for answer, that the
bad state of his health would render it impossible for him to
discharge the trust Colo. Fairfax wished to repose in you or
1780] AN OFFICER CASHIERED 319
him in a manner agreeable to himself and therefore could not
think of engaging in it if you (to whom I informed him I had
written) should decline it. but he recommended in case of yr.
refusal Mr. Frans. Whiting (the former manager of Colls.
Henry and William Fitzhughs Estate) as a person most likely,
in his opinion, to discharge the trust with punctuality.
My best respects attend your Lady and family, and with great
esteem and regard I am etc.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Tuesday, November 7, 1780.
Parole Hingham. Countersigns N., P.
Watchword Caution.
Brigadier General Glover
Lieutenant Colonel commandant
Hubley
Lieutenant Colonel Whiting
Major Wiley
Brigade Major Moore.
At the General court martial of the Line whereof Colonel
Bailey is President the 30th. of October last, Major Thomas
Barnes of the 12th Massachusett's regiment was tried on the
Resolve of Congress of December 6th. 1779 respecting absent
officers, he being charged with " Overstaying his furlough from
the 2nd. day of January last".
The Court on consideration are of opinion that Major Barnes
having been indulged with a furlough and not joining his regi-
ment at the Expiration thereof, has been properly notified
agreeable to the Resolve of Congress of December 6th. 1779,
and that he has neglected to join his regiment agreeable to such
notification and do sentence that he be Cashiered.
For the day Tomorrow
For the Day Tomorrow
320 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
The Commander in Chief confirms the opinion of the Court
and orders it carried into execution.
GENERAL ORDERS
Headquarters, Totowa, Wednesday, November 8, 1780.
Parole Chatham. Countersigns Cork, Dee.
Watchword Defiance.
Brigadier General Paterson
Lieutenant Colonel commandant
Smith
Lieutenant Colonel Mentges
Major Alexander
Brigade Major Van Laer
Such of the Prisoners lately exchanged as belong to the
Troops now at the Southward are to be attached to the Park
untill the arrival of Captain Brown's Company of Artillery
from Fort Schuyler, when they may proceed with it to their
respective Corps. The commanding officer at the Park will
cause a Return of the clothing wanting by those men to be
made to the Adjutant General.
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, November 8, 1780.
Dear Sir: I am favored with your Letter of the 31st October
and am glad to find your Appointment so agreeable to the
views and wishes of Congress.
So fully sensible have I long been of the distressed situation
of the Army, not only in this quarter, but also to the South-
ward, and of all our great Departments, from the embarrassed
state of our finances, that it has been not only a constant subject
1780] A FLYING ARMY FOR SOUTH 321
of representation, in the strongest terms to Congress and the
States individually, but particularly so to the Minister of France
at our last interview. And that a foreign Loan was absolutely
necessary to retrieve our affairs. My ideas therefore must have
been exceedingly misapprehended by him, or his by the Baron
Steuben.40
I intirely approve of your Plan for forming a flying Army.41
And in addition to this (if the Enemy should continue to
harrass those parts of Virginia which are intersected with large
navigable Rivers) I would reccommend the Building a number
of flat bottomed Boats of as large a construction as can be con-
veniently transported on Carriages; this I conceive might be
of great utility, by furnishing the means to take advantage of
the Enemys situation by crossing those Rivers which would
otherwise be impassable. I have also written to Governor
Jefferson on the Subject.
If a spirit of Patriotism, or even of true policy animates the
Merchants and Men of Property in the Southern States, a sub-
scription may be attended with success, at least the experiment
can do no injury.
General Knox has received directions to send forward the
Compy of Artillery. An Order will be given for the thousand
stand of Arms.
Since writing the above I have received your favor of the
3rd. Inst.
^Greene's letter of October 31 stated: "I wish our distresses may be painted in
their true colours to the Minister of France, as he intimated to Baron Steuben that
your Excellency did not appear to be apprehensive of any difficulty from the state of
our affairs." Greene's letter is in the Washington Papers.
41 "My first object will be to equip a flying Army to consist of about eight hundred
horse and one thousand Infantry. This force with the occasional aid of the Militia
will serve to confine the enemy in their limits and render it difficult for them to sub-
sist in the interior country. I see little prospect of getting a force to contend with the
enemy upon equal grounds and therefore must make the most of a kind of partizan
war untill we can levy and equip a larger force." — Greene to Washington, Oct. 31,
1780. Greene's letter is in the Washington Papers,
322 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
Lieutenant Col. Lawrens will have heard of his exchange
before this time, and is at liberty to go to the Southward if he
thinks proper.
With respect to the power Congress have invested you with,
to make exchanges, I should suppose it regarded the Prisoners
taken in the Southern Department on the usual principles;
without involving the Convention or any other Troops to the
Northward. A pretty extensive exchange has just taken place
in this quarter.
It is impossible, from the Non arrival of the french Arms,
and the scarcity in the Eastern States, to furnish those requested
by you. Nor do I think the Legion of the Duke Lazun can be
detached from the French Army. The fleet of Arbuthnot
which still blocks that of France in the Harbor of New Port
effectually precludes the execution of the other Plan.
Our last advices from the Northward mention another in-
cursion of the Enemy from Canada in greater force; in conse-
quence of which the remainder of the York Brigade is ordered
thither.
There are reports that an embarkation is about to be made
at New York. But the accounts are vague and contradictory,
and the fact not yet ascertained.
I have to request you will be pleased to send by a flag of
truce, the inclosed Letter to Brigadr. Genl Du Portail who is
exchanged. I am etc.42
*To MAJOR GENERAL BENJAMIN LINCOLN
Hd. Qrs. Passaic Falls, November 8, 1780.
My dear Sir: I have now the pleasure to congratulate you
upon your exchange. The certificate of it, will be transmitted
^The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
1780] SUFFERING OF ARMY 323
to you by the Commissary of Prisoners. Majors Baylies43 and
Jackson44 are also exchanged.
I do not mean by this notice to hasten your return to the
Army, for that, alas! is upon the eve of its annual dissolution,
consequently of the enemy's advantages. I am of opinion that
your influence, and exertion in procuring the State's quota
of Troops for the War; providing funds for the subsistence of
them; Magazines &ca., will be of infinitely more importance
in your own State, this Winter, than it can be to become a mere
Spectator, or fellow sufferer of the hunger and cold from the
scantiness of Provision and Cloathing which I expect the small
remains of our Army will have to encounter in a very short
time, and more than probably to contend with, during the
Winter. But at the sametime I give this as an opinion, I leave
you at full liberty to pursue the bent of your inclination and
judgment, being very sincerely etc.
To BRIGADIER GENERAL
LOUIS LE BEQUE DU PORTAIL
Head Quarters, November 8, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have the pleasure to announce to you, your Ex-
change for Brigadier General de Gaull of the Convention
Troops. Inclosed you have a Certificate of the same, and Sir
Henry Clintons passport for your return to Philada. I need not
tell you how happy I shall be to see you again with the Army.
I am etc.45
43Maj. Hodijah Baylies. He was aide to General Lincoln; had been taken prisoner
at Charleston, S. C, in May, 1780; aide to Washington from May, 1782, to Decem-
ber, 1783.
"Maj. William Jackson. He was aide to Lincoln; had been taken prisoner at
Charleston, S. C, in May, 1780; prisoner on parole to May, 1783; secretary to the Con-
stitutional Convention in 1787; secretary to the President of the United States from
1789 to 1791.
45 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
324 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
To COLONEL JAMES WOOD
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 8, 1780.
Dear Sir: The inclosed contains a Return of a number of
the Officers of the Convention Troops, British and Germans,
whose exchanges have been agreed upon at a late meeting of
the respective Commissaries of prisoners.40 You will therefore
be pleased to permit them to come immediately forward to
Elizabeth town by the Route prescribed to Brigs. Genl. Spetch
and de Gaull. I am &c.
For the inclosed Return see the Returns in Mr. Skinner's
letter of the 7th. Novemr 1780 numbered 5. 6. io.47
To ABRAHAM SKINNER
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 8, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, yours of the 7th. with a report of your pro-
ceedings with the British Commissary of prisoners at your late
Meeting. I have thought proper to accede to the proposals of
the several exchanges offered in the Returns Numbered 5. 6.
and 10 and shall take the speediest occasion to direct the Offi-
cer commanding at Charlotte Barracks to send down the Of-
ficers who are the objects of those propositions. You will order
the several British and German Corps mentioned in the Re-
turn No. 8 to be sent to New York in exchange for our privates
now there. They will leave a balance of upwards of 60 pri-
vates in our favor. I shall be ready to grant a passport for a
Flag Vessel to proceed to Newport or Providence to bring the
prisoners from Rutland. I have it not in my power to accede
to the proposed Exchange of Lt. Colo, de Buysson for Lt.
46 Skinner's letter of November 7 and the returns are not now found in the Wash-
ington Papers.
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] PORTSMOUTH EVACUATED 325
Governor Hamilton (Return No 7) that Gentleman, with
Major Hayes has been permit by the State of Virginia to go to
New York upon parole, but they will not consent at present
to his final exchange.
In regard to the proposal of exchanging The Officers who
will remain upon Long Island after the foregoing are carried
into execution, for a division of the troops of Convention; I
have only to say, that I will enter into a negociation for such
an exchange, provided Lt. Genl. Burgoyne is made an object
of it, but upon no other terms. And in respect to the further
proposal of a general exchange of the Convention troops Of-
ficers and Men for the prisoners of War taken to the South-
ward as far as they will apply, you must be sensible that we are
no ways prepared to enter upon that business, as we have but
a very imperfect state of the prisoners in that quarter; and
more especially as we have good reason to believe that a con-
siderable number of prisoners have fallen lately into our hands
there. Another reason for my not wishing to interfere in the
exchange of the southern prisoners at present is that the Com-
manding Officer in that district has powers competent to that
purpose, so far as he may have prisoners of War in his Hands.
I am etc.48
To GOVERNOR THOMAS JEFFERSON
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 8, 1780.
Sir: I have been honored with your Excellencys favors of the
22d: 25th: and 26th: ulto. We have already had reports that
the Enemy left Portsmouth precipitately a few days after land-
ing. I shall be happy to hear it confirmed, as well as the cause
to which their hurry is attributed; that of the appearance of a
French or Spanish fleet upon the Coast of Carolina. Should the
48 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
326 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
account be premature and should they establish a post in Vir-
ginia, I think it will be good policy to remove the troops of
Convention to a greater distance from them.49 General Phillips
has applied for passports for a Flag Vessel to proceed to James
River, as heretofore, with Cloathing and other necessaries for
those troops. This will be granted, and should they be removed
from Charlotteville, your Excellency will be pleased upon the
arrival of the Vessel in James River to give directions for her
to proceed to the most convenient place of debarkation, rela-
tively to where the troops may be.
I am glad to hear that you have permitted Govr. Hamilton
and Major Hayes to go to New York; while they remain there
upon parole, they will be less capable of concerting mischief
than in Virginia, and it will deprive the enemy of a pretext
for complaining that they are treated with rigor.
Another embarkation is said to be preparing at New York,
and I think it a very probable circumstance considering the
situation of the enemy's affairs in South Carolina, and ours in
this. They are well acquainted with the expiration of the times
of the better half of our Army, the latter end of December, and
they know they may safely detach equal to the number we dis-
band, from this time to the Month of May or June next, which
is as soon as we generally get our recruits into the Field. Should
the enemy continue in the lower parts of Virginia, they will
have every advantage by being able to move up and down the
Rivers in small parties, while it will be out of our power to
molest them for want of the means of suddenly transporting
ourselves across those Rivers to come at them. This might be
in a very great degree obviated and they kept in check, if we
had a number of (say ) flat boats upon travelling carriages
"The British were removed about two weeks later to Fort Frederick, Md., but the
Germans were continued at Charlottesville, as they had shown little disposition to
try to escape.
1780] FLAT BOATS FOR SOUTH 327
attending the Army collected to watch their motions. We could
then move across from River to River with more rapidity than
they could go down one and up another, and none of their de-
tachments would be ever secure by having the Water between
them and us. Major Genl. Greene is perfectly acquainted with
the kind of Boats I have mentioned, and with the mode of fix-
ing them. He will give the proper directions for having them
constructed, should your Excellency approve the plan. New
Castle I think from its situation, would be a good and safe place
to build the Boats. I have the honor etc.50
*To WILLIAM FITZHUGH
Hd. Qrs. Passaic Falls, November 8, 1780.
Dear Sir : I have now the pleasure to congratulate you, Mrs.
Fitzhugh and the Cornet,51 on his exchange. It was compleated
a few days ago, and the Commissary of Prisoners will forward
the certificate or promulgation of it.
The favourable prospect which at one stage of the campaign
was held up to view, has vanished like the morning dew; leav-
ing scarce a trace behind it but the recollection of past dis-
tresses on the score of Provision, the want of wch. continues
to threaten us.
Our accts. from the Southward are vague and uncertain, but
agreeable. If it be true, that a body of French or Spanish Troops
have Landed in South Carolina it may end in the total destruc-
tion of Cornwallis's Army. Another Embarkation is talked
of at New York, but this also is a matter of suggestion, not
certainty as to Numbrs.
It is devoutly to be wished that the late resolves of Congress
for regulating the Army, and compleating the Regiments for
The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
B1 Peregrine Fitzhugh.
328 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
the War, may receive all the energetic force of the respective
States. Certain I am, that if this measure had been adopted
four, or even three years ago, that we might, at this time, have
been sitting under our vines and fig trees in full enjoyment of
Peace and Independence. To attain which, tho' delay of the
measure is unfortunate, it does not make it too late, but more
necessary to enter upon it vigorously at this late hour.
An Army for the War, proper Magazines, and sufficient
powers in Congress for all the purposes of War, will soon put
an end to it, but the expensive, and ruinous system we were
pursuing, was more than the funds of any Nation upon Earth
would bear, and served to increase the hopes of the enemy in
proportion as the minds of our own people were depressed, by
a boundless prospect of expence; which was encreasing, as it
rolled on, like a Snow ball.
My best respects attend Mrs. Fitzhugh, and Compliments
to your Son, with much esteem and Affection I am etc.
[N.Y.H.S.]
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Thursday, November 9, 1780.
Parole Lancaster. Countersigns M., B.
Watchword Wolfe.
Brigadier General Wayne
Lieutenant Colonel commdt.
Sherman
Lieutenant Colonel Fernald
Major Tudor52
Brigade Major Smith53
For the Day Tomorrow
"Maj. George Tudor of the Fifth Pennsylvania Regiment. He retired in January,
1781.
G3Maj. David Smith. He was major of the Eighth Connecticut Regiment; brigade
major and inspector to July, 1781; transferred to the Fifth Connecticut Regiment in
January, 1781, and to the Second Connecticut Regiment in January, 1783; served to
June, 1783.
1780] MONEY AND CLOTHING 329
The General court martial whereof Colonel Bailey is presi-
dent, to assemble tomorrow morning, 9 o'clock at the Widow
Godwin's for the trial of such persons as shall come before
them. All persons concerned to attend.
Major Oliver,54 Inspector to the 1st. Massachusett's Brigade,
having obtained leave of absence, Captain Sewall55 of the 12th.
Massachusetts regiment is appointed to do that duty in his
Absence.
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 9, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received your favors of the 4th and 7th.
Upon hearing of the destruction committed upon the Western
Frontier, and that we should thereby be deprived of the Maga-
zine of Bread which we expected from that quarter, I immedi-
ately wrote to Congress and pointed out to them the absolute
necessity of having a supply of Flour, equal to the winter con-
sumption of the Garrison of West Point, and its dependencies,
brought forward from the Southward before the Roads are
broken up. The Assistant Commissary is gone down to repre-
sent the situation of matters also, and to hurry on what may
be collected.
I do not know what prospects there are of money, but I fear
none very good. Upon a collective view of all the cloathing
between Boston and Philadelphia, there is not more than a suf-
ficiency for half of the number of men we shall have left in
service after the Month of December. The most parsimonious
distribution will be therefore necessary, and I would not wish
MMaj. Robert Oliver, of the Third Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to
the Second Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and served to November, 178?,.
Capt. Henry Sewall, jr. He was transferred to the Second Massachusetts Regi-
ment in May, 1782, and was major and aide to General Heath from May, 1779, to
June, 1783.
330 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
that to commence (except for shoes, or such small articles as
the men cannot dispense with) untill the Army gets together
in Winter Quarters. Recruits for the War who have not re-
ceived any Cloathing may be supplied for the present with
such Articles as will make them comfortable. If their own
State Clothiers have them, they had better furnish the supply,
if not, they may be drawn from the public store. I am &c.56
[MS.H.S.]
To LEWIS PINTARD
Head Quarters, Colo. Dey's, November 9, 1780.
Sir : Sir Henry Clinton has at length consented to the estab-
lishment of Agents for prisoners upon terms which have been
settled between us. If you therefore still incline to enter upon
that business, upon our part, I will make you out a proper War-
rant, and will apply for your admission into New York in your
Official Character, as soon as it is convenient for you to remove.
Should you decline the matter, you will oblige me by recom-
mending a Gentleman whom you may think in every respect
capable and proper to transact the Business. I am &c.57
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM PHILLIPS
Head Quarters, November 9, 1780.
Sir: I had the honor of receiving your favor of the 4th. by
Mr. Commissary Skinner, who reported to me the exchanges
of the Officers and privates which had been carried finally into
effect by him and Mr. Loring, and laid before me proposals of
exchanging a further number of the Officers and Staff of the
Convention Troops for the like number of ours, on equality of
Rank, or by composition, where that would not apply. I have
8In the writing of David Humphreys.
7 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780]
NEED OF CLOTHING 331
acceded to these propositions, and orders are gone to permit the
Gentlemen interested in the exchange immediately to repair to
Elizabeth Town. I have forwarded all the letters committed
to my care by the same Express. I have given Mr. Skinner
directions on the subject of the other propositions.
As soon as I am informed of the name of the Vessel intended
for Virginia, and other particulars requisite, I will grant pass-
ports for her. If she is to return to New York, you will be
pleased to mention it, that the passports may be made out
accordingly. I have the honor etc.58
CIRCULAR TO THE STATES59
Head Quarters, Prackness,60 November 10, 1780.
Sir: From a collective view of the State of our Cloathing,
I find we have not more, in the Public Magazines, than will be
sufficient for one half of the men inlisted for the War, or whose
term of service will extend beyond the winter. To depend, any
longer, upon the supply expected from Europe arriving in
time to relieve the wants of the troops, will be leaving the
matter upon too precarious a footing. I have therefore thought
it a duty incumbent upon me, to give you this information,
that you may endeavour to procure and send forward the Ar-
ticles most essential to the convenience and comfort of the
Men. I should have done it sooner, but I still flattered myself
with an ample supply from abroad. The Articles most wanted
will be Blankets, Waistcoats, Woolen Overalls, and Stockings;
The greater part of the men have Coats that may enable them,
with warm under Cloaths, to rub thro' the severity of Winter.
68 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
69 Sent to New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York,
New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
°°The draft, which is in the writing of Tench Tilghman, is dated "Passaic Falls."
332 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
I would recommend that the Cloth, with thread, buttons &c. be
sent to the Army in the piece ; it may be made up there agreable
to the wants of the Men, and quicker than at home, as there
are Taylors sufficient in every Corps.
The Return, with which you have lately been furnished, very
accurately points out the number of Men intitled to Cloathing
from the public. A supply equal to half that Number will be
absolutely necessary, and as there is no probable chance, for the
reasons I have before mentioned, of obtaining it from the Con-
tinental Agents, I must entreat the exertions of each State in
behalf of its own Troops, as the only means of preventing a
number of them from experiencing extreme distress the ensu-
ing Winter. I have the honor etc.01 [n.h.h.s.]
To COLONEL ELISHA SHELDON
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 10, 1780.
Sir: The Covers of Most of the dispatches that have lately
come from the Count de Rochambeau to me, by the Chain of
Expresses, have been so broken, that it would have been an
easy matter to have taken out the inclosures and discovered the
contents. Had this been the case once or twice only, I should
have attributed it to accident, but from the frequency of the
thing, and no other Packets being broken but those of the
Counts; I am led to suspect foul play at some of the Stages. It
may perhaps be impossible to discover it, if it is so, but to pre-
vent its going on, the safest way is to relieve all your present
stationary Dragoons by a like number, and do the same every
three or four Weeks. I would wish you to endeavour to find
out whether there is really any thing in what I suspect. I
am etc.
lIn ihc writing of Caleb Gibbs.
For the Day Tomorrow
1780J THE MARECHAUSEE POST 333
P. S. Major Tallmadge will have occasion for a detachment
of your dismounted Dragoons to execute a piece of Business
intrusted to him.62
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Friday, November 10, 1780.
Parole Norwalk. Countersigns N., F.
Watchword Never fear.
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Wyllys
Lieutenant Colonel Mellen63
Major Ballard64
Brigade Major Sewall.
The Marechausie and Bedkin's corps are to take post on the
left of the Army near the Light Infantry, and receive orders
from Major General the Marquis de la Fayette.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Saturday, November 11, 1780.
Parole Bennington. Countersigns Bath, Boon.
Watchword Be ready.
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel Greaton
Lieutenant Colonel Basset
Major Wallbridge65
Brigade Major Ashley
For the Day Tomorrow*
B2The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
'"Lieut. Col. James Mellen, of the Ninth Massachusetts Regiment. He was trans-
ferred to the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1781; made lieutenant-
colonel commandant of the Third Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783; served
to June, 1783.
04Maj. William Hudson Ballard, of the Fifteenth Massachusetts Regiment. He re-
tired in January, 1781.
6uMaj. Ames Walbridge (Wallbridge), of the Second Connecticut Regiment. He
retired in January, 1781.
334 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
Captain Converse66 is to do the duty of Brigade Major and
Inspector to the 2nd. Connecticut brigade in the absence of
Major Woodbridge.67
Lieutenant Henry Cunningham68 is appointed Quarter-Mas-
ter to the 2nd. Regiment of Artillery from the 21st. of June last.
Regimental Returns to be made immediately of the Invalids
in Camp; These Returns to comprehend the weak and sickly
men and such as are unfit for the duties of the Field for want
of clothing; the Serjeants and Drums and Fifes are to be in-
cluded but placed in seperate columns and the old Soldiers and
Soldiers for the war are to be in columns distinct from the
Levies but the whole to make one agregate in the column of
Total. The commanding officers of regiments will be respon-
sible that there are no impositions and that the returns are accu-
rate. The same Returns from the Light Infantry. These to be
digested into brigade Returns and the whole transmitted to the
Orderly Office.
At the General Court martial whereof Colonel Bailey is pres-
ident Captain Barnard69 of the 3d. Connecticut regiment was
tried for " Having knowingly made a false muster of Grove
Barnard a soldier of his company."
The Court are of opinion that the charge against Captain
Barnard is not supported.
The Commander in Chief is under the necessity of disap-
proving the Sentence, as it appears to him incontestibly proved
(if any credit is to be given to Muster-Rolls invariably attested
^Capt. Thomas Converse, of the Seventh Connecticut Regiment. He was trans-
ferred to the Second Connecticut Regiment in January, 1781; made brigade inspector
in July, 1781; retired in January, 1783.
S7Maj. Theodore Woodbridge, of the Seventh Connecticut Regiment. He was ap-
pointed brigade major and inspector to July, 1781; transferred to the First Connecti-
cut Regiment in January, 1781; retired in January, 1783.
88 Of the Second Continental Artillery. He was regimental quartermaster to Decem-
ber, 1782, and served to June, 1784.
69Capt. John Barnard. He retired in January, 1781.
1780] A DEATH SENTENCE 335
for near three years and other evidence) that Grove Barnard
was inlisted for the War. Had he been inlisted by another
officer it is possible that Captain Barnard might have been
deceived by a false return but when it is considered that the
soldier in question was his son and inlisted or entered by him-
self the General cannot conceive it possible that he could have
made a mistake and continued in his error so long. If Grove
Barnard is not dismissed from the Service he is to be detained
untill further enquiry can be made.
At a Brigade General court martial the 18th. ultimo Lieu-
tenant Colonel Commandant Butler president. Anthony Spin-
house, soldier in the 7th. Pennsylvania regiment taken in the
Act of Desertion to the Enemy was tried found Guilty and
Sentenced agreeable to the 6th. Section Article 1st. of the
Articles of War (more than two thirds of the Court agreeing
thereto) to Suffer Death.
The Commander in Chief confirms the Sentence.
A Fatigue Party to parade tomorrow at Guard mounting
with their Arms Packs and three days Provisions to repair the
roads.
To MAJOR BENJAMIN TALLMADGE
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 11, 1780.
Sir: I have received your Letter of the 7th. Instant with
the enclosures.
The destruction of the Forage collected for the use of the
British Army at Coram, is of so much consequence that I
should advise the attempt to be made.70 I have written to Colo
Sheldon to furnish a Detachment of dismounted Dragoons,
and will commit the execution to you. If the party of Refu-
gees at Smith's house can be attempted without frustrating the
other design, or running too great a hazard, I have no objection.
70Tallmadge made the attempt November 23.
336 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
But you must remember this is only a secondary object, and
in all cases, will take the most prudent means to secure a
retreat.
Confiding entirely in your discretion, as well as enterprize,
and wishing you success, I am etc.
PS. The Detachment under Lt. Brewster may also be em-
ployed on this service.71
To MAJOR JOHN MAURITIUS GOETCHIUS
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November n, 1780.
Sir : I have reed, yours of this date. The detachment under
your command not being considered in the Continental pay,
or under my direction, you cannot with propriety apply to me
for provision. The State will, no doubt, upon your application
to them, give proper orders in the Matter.
I should not refer you to the State, had I any authority to
supply you. I am &c.72
*To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH73
Hd. Qrs. Passaic Falls, November 12, 1780.
Dear Sir: Upon a full view of what (from the returns) must
be the state of our Army when the Levies leave it the first of
January, and of the little prospect there is of getting the places
of many, if any of them supplied by that time, and when the
importance of West point and the Southern communication
with it is taken into consideration, I can think of no better dis-
position of the Army for Winter Quarters than the following:
"In the writing of David Humphreys. From a photostat of the original kindly
furnished by D. W. Richards, of New York City.
7-!The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
"Marked "(Private)" on the draft and also on the address of the letter sent, as
above.
1780] WINTER QUARTERS 337
Pensylvania line : somewhere in the neighbourhood of Mor-
ris Town
Jersey line: About Pompton; in the clove of the Mountain;
with a detachment from it at the other clove near Sufrrans.
York line: (The Troops of that State being chiefly there
already and the Northern and Western frontier much har-
rassed) to continue at Albany.
Connecticut and Massachusetts lines: (being about adequate
to the number required) to be at West point, the former on the
East and the [latter]74 on the West side of the River.
New Hampshire and Rhode Island: at the gorge of the
Mountain near the Continental village; and to furnish a de-
tachment more to the left; say, about Robinsons Mills.
Sheldon's horse: On Connecticut river at Colchester or
Middletown.
Moylans horse: In Pensylvania perhaps Reading.
The Marischause: (If it is not reduced) to be somewhere in
the rear of New Windsor; and
The Park of Artillery : at or near New Windsor.
This disposition is not yet announced to the Army, nor is it
known to the Genl. Officers of it (otherwise than by conjec-
ture), for which reason, and because it may undergo a change
I would not, as yet, have any thing said of it. If it takes place
my own quarters will, more than probably, be at or near New
Windsor as the central point.
Building Barracks, Hutts &ca. near the Works for the Troops
destined for the defence of the Post should undergo no inter-
ruption on acct. of the change this distribution may occasion.
How far the Hutts at Soldiers fortune, or Genl. Glovers In-
campment may be necessary I cannot undertake to determine,
u Bracketed word supplied from the draft.
338 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
because I do not know precisely, the relative situation of these
places to the Works.
Your favor of the ioth. is receivd. I approve much of your
intended forage75 in which include Cattle &ca. ; but for particu-
lar reasons I wish the execution of it to be delayed a little if
there is no inconvenience resulting from it. In the mean while
make every necessary arrangement for it in your own mind
that the business may be suddenly entered upon when you hear
from me again on the subject. I am etc. [ms.h.s.]
To COLONEL WILLIAM MALCOM
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 12, 1780.
Sir: Your favors of the 12th: 14th: and 29th: ulto. all came
to hand by yesterdays post. How the two first were so long on
the way I cannot tell. The disagreeable intelligence contained
in them had reached me from other quarters. The blow upon
the Western Frontier will be severely felt by us in the course
of the Winter. Indeed I know not how we are to make up the
disappointment in the Bread of that Country.
I am convinced of your exertions in forwarding supplies to
Fort Schuyler, and you have my thanks for your activity on
that occasion. I am &c.76
To COLONEL SETH WARNER
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 12, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, your favr. of the 30th: October by Captain
Moulton.77 I am sorry for the unfortunate stroke upon your
75 Heath intended to make a forage below the Continental lines above White Plains
in Sing Sing and North Castle.
70In the writing of Tench Tilghman. This letter is in the Papers of the Continental
Congress, no. 152, 9, fol. 365.
77Capt. William Moulton, of Warner's Additional Continental regiment. He re-
tired in January, 1781.
1780] EMPTY MILITARY CHEST 339
Regt. at Fort George, but I cannot but think it extraordinary
that you should furlough the remainder at a time when their
services were so essentially necessary.
By the new establishment of the Army, your Regiment with
all the Corps upon the same foundation (Colonel Hazen's ex-
cepted) is to be reduced on the ist. January. The Officers to
go out on half pay for life, and the non Commd. and private
Men to join the Regiments of those States to which they prop-
erly belong. The time of reduction being so near, you may as
well send the remainder of your Men immediately down to
West point, under the care of an Officer, where they will
be incorporated and receive Cloathing.
The Military Chest here and to the Northward are both
empty, and I cannot therefore make the advance of pay which
you require. As Mr. Sherman78 your late pay Master has gone
off in so scandalous a Manner, you must appoint one of your
Officers, who is best qualified, to make up the Regimental ac-
counts in the best manner that circumstances will admit, and
send them down to the Auditors that they may be finally
adjusted. You must, at the same time prepare your accounts
for the Money which you have received at different times for
recruiting. I am &c.79
To COLONEL TIMOTHY PICKERING
Head Quarters, November 12, 1780.
Sir: In answer to your Letter of the 10th I can only observe
that it is not in my power to give any particular explanation of
the views of Congress in the establishment of the Regiment
of Artificers beyond what is expressed in their Act. Nor do I
78 William Sherman. He was former paymaster in Warner's Additional Continental
regiment.
'"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
340 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
know, with precision, what proportion of Artillery or Quarter
Master Artificers may be necessary with the Army.
I would therefore wish you to have a meeting with General
Knox on the Subject, and report your opinions to me respecting
the reduction and incorporation of the Corps of Artificers now
in service, that the necessary measures may be pursued.
You will be pleased to forward the Letters herewith trans-
mitted by Express. I am etc.80
To CAPTAIN JOHN OGDEN81
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 12, 1780.
Sir : I have reed, your f avr. of yesterday. If you can get cer-
tain intelligence of the time the enemy mean to come out, and
can give me sufficient previous notice, I will send down a de-
tachment from the Army to prevent the execution of their
plan. You must, if possible, ascertain the force that they mean
to bring over.82
The person who delivered your letter said he had no News
paper given to him, as mentioned in yours. I am etc.83
*To LIEUTENANT COLONEL JOHN LAURENS
Hd. Qrs. Passaic falls, November 12, 1780.
My dear Laurens : A Letter of yours dated Octobr (but which
I believe ought to have been Novr.) the 6th. came to my hands
last Evening. Every fresh assurance of your personal regard
and attachment to me, gives me pleasure.
80 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
81 Of the New Jersey levies, commanding at Newark.
82Ogden had written to Washington (November n) that the British intended to
make a push into the Newark meadows to take off the salt hay. Ogden's letter is in
the Washington Papers.
'"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS 341
The motives which led you to the Southward are too laud-
able, and too important not to meet my approbation. In that,
or any other quarter in which you may act, my best wishes for
your health preservation and glory will accompany you, being
with sincere regard and Affectn. etc.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Sunday, November 12, 1780.
Parole Domingo. Countersigns Darby, Dover.
Watchword Duty.
Brigadier General Paterson
Colonel Nixon
- Lieutenant Colonel Littlefield84
Major Maxwell80
Brigade Major Pettengill
For the Day Tomorrow
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 12, 1780.
Sir: I have not been honored with any of your Excellency's
favors since mine of the 4th. Inst. Neither have I received
any intelligence from New York contradicting what I com-
municated in that letter, on the contrary, the accounts seem
confirmed.
I have lately made an exchange of a considerable number
of prisoners with Sir Henry Clinton; part of the British are at
Rutland in Massachusetts Bay; and as it is stipulated that they
shall be allowed to embark at Providence or Newport on board
frl Lieut. Col. Noah Moulton Littlefield, of the Eleventh Massachusetts Regiment. He
retired in January, 1781.
8DMaj. Hugh Maxwell, of the Second Massachusetts Regiment.
342 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
a Flag Vessel that will be sent from New York for that pur-
pose, I have thought it proper to give your Excellency this
previous notice. I have the honor etc.86
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Monday, November 13, 1780.
Parole Maryland. Countersigns I., Q.
Watchword March.
Brigadier General Wayne
Colonel Chambers
For the Day Tomorrow < Lieutenant Colonel Sumner
Major Talbot
Brigade Major Darby87
The invalids and men wanting clothing in the light infantry,
excepting in the article of shoes are to join their respective regi-
ments in the line of the army; they are not to be replaced by
others.
Where the want of clothing in yesterday's report is confined
to shoes only the men under that description are to be struck
out of the returns because they may be supplied at the issuing
Store; all the rest with the invalids and an addition of ten men
from each regiment the whole under proper officers of their
respective regiments or Lines are to march with their Arms
baggage &ca. as soon as the Quarter Master General can furnish
Waggons; They are to be provided with Tents and Camp-
kettles from their respective lines and to be under the command
of a Colonel from each who will receive his orders at Head
Quarters.
^The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
S7Maj. Samuel Darby, of the Seventh Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred
to the Eighth Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1783, and served to June, 1783.
1780] FRENCH OFFICERS VISIT 343
The General recommends it very strongly to the officers re-
maining to send under this Escort every species of Baggage
they can do without, to their Winter quarters, that the Army
may be as light and the horses in the field lessened as much as
possible.
To BRIGADIER GENERAL MORDECAI GIST
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 13, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed, your favor of the 26th: ulto. with a Re-
turn of the Maryland additional Regiment, and a Copy of Gen-
eral Gates's instructions to you. You will, I presume before this
reaches you, have seen Major General Greene, in his way to
take the command of the southern Army, and will have re-
ceived from him such further directions as he may have
thought necessary. I shall be glad of a line from you, from time
to time, informing me of the progress of raising and forward-
ing the Recruits. I am etc.88 [ms.h.s.]
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 13, 1780.
Dear Sir: The inclosed from the Marquis de la Fayette an-
nounces the expected arrival of several French Officers of dis-
tinction upon a visit to the Army. Should they pass the posts
under your command I am convinced you will pay them every
attention and honor due to their Rank. As I should wish to
have notice of their approach to this Camp, you will oblige me
by dispatching an Express as soon as they arrive with you, with
an account of the Route which they mean to take. I am etc.88
[MS.H.S.]
sIn the writing of Tench Tilghman.
344 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
To BRIGADIER GENERAL ANTHONY WAYNE
Head Quarters, November 14, 1780.
Dear Sir: The Officer who is to command the detachment
from your line, agreeably to yesterday's orders, will be referred
to you for instructions. The inclosed contains the heads of
such as have occurred to me; you may possibly think of others.
If your old Hutts are too much injured, or if the Wood (for
firing) about them is insufficient, there are two places (if my
memory serves me) either of which in point of convenience
and situation would be eligible for your Winters Cantonment.
The first, and which I think least liable to be beat up is be-
tween Morris Town and Mendam on the mountainside right
of the Road leading from the first to the latter and about mid-
way. The second is near Veal Town where the Virginians
began to Hutt last Winter; either of these, or any place between
them may answer if there are difficulties in the way of the old
hutts. I do not know who the Officer is that is going upon this
Command, but as some skill and judgment is necessary in the
Choice of a position, and in laying out the Ground, I think it
may not be amiss to send one or two in whom you can confide
to make choice of the spot before the detachment arrives to
prevent as well delay, as other inconveniences. I am etc.89
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 14, 1780.
Dear Sir: Since my letter of the 5th:, on the subject of the
number of Men necessary to compleat the Quota of your State,
I have recollected a matter in the composition of Colo. Lambs
Regt. which I wish had been attended to at that time. Two
independent Companies of Pennsylvania, consisting at present
80 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman and Caleb Gibbs.
1780] INVALIDS AND BAGGAGE 345
of only 39 Men, have been for some time past annexed to
that Regt. and are included in the number of 304 of which the
Regt., as it now stands, consists. They have been always re-
turned as part of the quota of Pennsylvania, have been adopted
and supplied by that State. They would have been heretofore
annexed to Colo. Proctor's Regt. but for some difference be-
tween the Officers on account of Rank. There is a necessity
for doing it now, as Lambs Regt. has two Companies more
than the establishment allows, and Proctors wants two to com-
pleat it. The inclosed, which is a Copy of a letter from General
Knox on the subject, is more full, and to which I would beg
your Excellency's reference.
From the above State, your Excellency will perceive the ne-
cessity of your making an addition of 39 Men to your assess-
ment, as Colo. Lambs Regiment will be lessened so many by
withdrawing the Companies before mentioned.
I have received your Excellency's favors of the 5th. and 8th.
by hearing nothing further from the Northward, I am in
hopes the advance of the Enemy has been checked. I have the
honor etc.90
To COLONEL PHILIP BURR BRADLEY
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 14, 1780.
Sir: You are to take the charge of the Invalids and such other
Detachments of the Connecticut Line, as were mentioned in
the General Orders of the 13th. as also of such of the Baggage
as shall be sent from thence, to the Winter Quarters of the
Troops: and proceed to Kings Ferry, keeping the Baggage in
front of the Line of march, and causing the strictest regularity
and order to be observed in it.
00 The draft is in the writing o£ Tench Tilghman. The original was in the New
York State Library.
346 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
You will send forward an Officer to have Boats provided
ready at Kings Ferry to receive and transport the Baggage up
the River, that the Waggons may be dismissed, and sent back
without delay.
(The Troops are to cross the River at Kings Ferry, and move
on the east side, to the vicinity of West Point, where you will
receive Major Genl Heath's further Instructions respecting
their disposition, having previously given information to him
of the time when you shall arrive.)
You will be pleased to pay the utmost attention, to prevent
the destruction of fences, or violation of any other property
of the Inhabitants on the march; as well as to the accommo-
dation of the Troops under your Command.91
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 14, 1780.
Sir: I have just received advice that Admiral Rodney's Fleet,
with the transports which have been sometime preparing, fell
down to the Hook on Saturday last. The number of troops on
board is not yet ascertained. It is said that Major General Phil-
lips commands the detachment, but I have it not sufficiently
vouched, to make it a matter of certainty. Their destination is
generally believed to be to the Southward. I expect more cir-
cumstantial intelligence shortly. I have the honor etc.92
91 In the writing of David Humphreys. From a photostat of the original kindly
furnished by Judge E. A. Armstrong, of Princeton, N. J.
The same instructions were sent to Maj. William Hudson Ballard, of the Twelfth
Massachusetts Regiment, to take charge of the Invalids and such other detachments
of the Massachusetts line as were mentioned in General Orders of November 13, except
the paragraph included in parentheses, and for this the following was substituted : " If
On Your arrival at Kings Ferry, there shall not be a sufficiency of Boats to transport
the Troops to West Point You will march them by the route of Storms's Clements's
and Fort Montgomery; in either case you will apply to Major Genl. Heath for his
Orders respecting their disposition."
92 In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] BRITISH FLEET'S MOVE 347
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 14, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, information from New York that Admiral
Rodneys Fleet, with the Transports which have been some
time preparing, fell down to the Hook on Saturday last. The
number of troops which they have on board is uncertain. If
the Admiral, with his ships of War, means to form a junction
with Arbuthnot, you will soon perceive it, by the augmenta-
tion of the Fleet which keeps off Newport; if, on the contrary,
he is bound to the West Indies, as some say, he will, probably
convoy the transports to their place of destination, and then
proceed to the Islands. The ships of the Line at New York
were the Sandwich, 90 Guns; Terrible, 74; Alcide; Adamant;
Triumph, 74; Intrepide, 64. But whether they will all proceed
to sea, I cannot tell. The press was extremely hot in New York
previous to the sailing of the Fleet. I have the honor etc.93
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Tuesday, November 14, 1780.
Parole Lebanon. Countersigns Luck, Loo.
Watchword Lookout.
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Marshall
For the Day Tomorrow < Lieutenant Colonel Newall
Major Knapp
Brigade Major Moore
At the General Court martial of the line whereof Colonel
Bailey is president, the 10th. instant, Lieutenant Reeves94 of the
93 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
84 Lieut. Enos Reeves. He was transferred to the Second Pennsylvania Regiment in
January, 1781, and to the First Pennsylvania Regiment in January, 1783; served to
November, 1783.
348 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
ioth. Pennsylvania regiment was tried for "A breach of gen-
eral orders of the 6th. instant in granting a pass to Daniel
Quinn, a soldier in the ioth. Pennsylvania regiment".
The court on consideration are of opinion that Lieutenant
Reeves signed a pass for Daniel Quinn to pass to the Light
infantry camp on which Quinn passed in breach of general
orders; but it appears to the court that it was the intention of
Lieutenant Reeves the pass should be signed by the command-
ing officer of the regiment. On this consideration and the cus-
tom of the regiment they think Lieutenant Reeves excuseable.
The Commander in Chief approves the Sentence and Lieu-
tenant Reeves is released from his Arrest.
To prevent accidents of the same kind happening in future,
let the commanding officers of companies only recommend
the soldiers to the commanding officers of regiments for passes,
this will put it out of their power to make use of the writing of
which they are possessed before it is properly authenticated.
To REVEREND WILLIAM SMITH95
[Hd. Qrs., Passaic Falls, November 15, 1780.]
I am particularly indebted to you Sir, for the obliging man-
ner in which you have executed the trust reposed in you by
the American Philosophical Society. An excuse for the little
delay that attended it could have only found a motive in your
politeness.
MDr. William Smith. He was secretary of the American Philosophical Society and
wrote Washington (November i ) : "I have the Honor herewith to transmit to you
the Certificate or Diploma of your Election into the American Philosophical Society;
which ought to have been made out at the Time of its Date. As this business, viz the
preparing the Draft (which was to be a special one) and getting it engross'd, lay upon
the then acting Secretary, it is my Duty to make an Apology for the Delay; and to
assure your Excellency that it proceeded only from a Desire to have it executed in
the Manner which might do the greatest Honor to the Society." Smith's letter is in the
Washington Papers. The certificate of membership is also in the Washington Papers.
1780] UNIFORMS 349
All the circumstances of the election are too flattering not to
enhance the honor I feel in being distinguished by the fellow-
ship of a society so eminently respectable.
I warmly unite with you in the wish that the happy period
may speedily arrive which will enable all the members to de-
vote themselves to advancing the objects of this most useful
institution. I am etc.96
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa,
Wednesday, November 15, 1780.
Parole Presburg. Countersigns Paris, Perth.
Watchword Hark.
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel Bradford
Lieutenant Colonel Robinson
Major Hamilton
Brigade Major Van Laer
As nothing adds more to the beauty and appearance of a
Corps than exact uniformity of dress; The General recom-
mends it thus early to the Field officers newly arranged to fix
upon a fashion for the regimental clothing of the officers of
their respective corps (if it is not already done) confining
themselves to the ground, facings, linings and buttons already
assigned to the states to which they belong: The General sees
with concern the difficulties which the officers labor under in
procuring clothes; it is not therefore his wish that those who
are already furnished should run themselves to the expence of
new uniforms if their old are not exactly conformable, but
that they should in future comply strictly with the regimental
86 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
For the Day Tomorrow
350 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
fashion, and if possible get their old clothes altered to it. It has
a very odd appearance especially to Foreigners to see the same
corps of officers each differing from the other in fashion of the
facings sleeves and pockets of their coats. An attention to these
minutiae has been thought proper in all services it becomes pe-
culiarly so in ours at this time as we shall more than probable
take the field next Campaign in conjunction with our Allies
composed of the first Troops in Europe, who will receive im-
pressions and form opinions from the first view.
This again induces the General to exhort all officers who
continue in service to make themselves perfectly masters of
every thing contained in the rules and regulations of the Army
that there may be a strict uniformity in our manoeuvres and
discipline especially in honors paid to officers according to their
several ranks, a thing scrupulously attended to and expected in
foreign service.
Strict attention is to be paid to the order of the 18th. of June
last distinguishing the rank of Officers by their Badges.
*To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Hd. Qrs. Passaic falls, November 16, 1780.
Dear Sir: Your forage will be made to subserve a project
I have in view, the success of which depending upon a con-
currence of things, and upon causes that are unalterable, I have
to request that matters may be so ordered by you, as that the
detachment employed on this occasion may be at the white
plains, or as low down as you mean they shall go, by two
Oclock on thursday the 23d. Instt. They will remain there
that Night upon their Arms, and as it is not unlikely but that
the enemy (if they are in force at Kings bridge) may attempt
to surprize them, a vigilant look out is to be kept, and small
1780] FORAGING EXPEDITION 351
parties of horse and foot employed in patroling the different
Roads leading from the enemy's lines.
It is my earnest wish, that you make your foraging party as
strong, and have it as well Officered as possible. I am of opin-
ion, that you may trust the several works (as it will be for a
few days only, and this body advanced of them) to the In-
valids, and such Troops as are rendered unfit for the field on
Acct. of cloathing. The Guard Boats should, upon this occa-
sion, be uncommonly alert; they should proceed as low down
as they can, with safety, and so dispose of themselves as, by
signals, to communicate the quickest intelligence of any move-
ments on the River. A Chain of Expresses may also be fixed
between the Foragers and your Quarters, for the purpose of
speedy information of any extra event, or occurrence below.
It is unnecessary to be more explicit; your own judgment,
and conviction of the precision with which this business, espe-
cially in point of time, should be executed, will supply any
omission of mine. This, that is, the time of being at the White
plains in force, under the appearance of a large forage if you
cannot make it real, is the first object to be attended to. I dare
not commit my project to writing for fear of a miscarriage of
my letter, but it is more than probable that between this and
the day of execution, I shall send an Officer to you with a de-
tail acct. of it.97/ So soon as this comes to hand I beg of you to
send by Water five Boats of the largest size that can be con-
veniently transported on Carriages to the Slote above Dobbs's
ferry,9S where I will have them met by Carriages, let there be
five good Watermen with their Arms and Accoutrements, from
the Jersey line if they have diem, allotted to each Boat under the
97 This project was an attack on the northern posts of the British at Kingsbridge and
the northern part of Manhattan Island. (See Washington's letter to Brig. Gen. Henry
Knox, Nov. 22, 1780.)
88 On the west side of the Hudson.
352 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
command of an active intelligent Subaltern (of the same line)
who is also to be a good Waterman. If there should be any
armed Vessels of the enemy in the River above Dobb's ferry, let
me know it, that I may order the Carriages to Kings ferry
The Officer and Men are to attend the Boats by Land, as well
as Water.
Sending the Invalids and bad cloathed men of Pensylvania
to Morris Town, those of Massachusetts and Connecticut to
West point, and the Artillerists to New Windsor, strongly
mark'd the Cantonments of the Army, and this will be mani-
fested more clearly when Ma jr. Gibbs fixes upon my Qrs., for
which purpose he is now gone up to New Windsor. The De-
tachts. from Massachusetts and Connecticut lines now on their
March to West point, including ten hearty and well cloathed
men from each of their Regiments, amounts to 1400 Men,
which will enable you to enlarge your foraging party very
considerably.
The inclosed for Colo. Govion requires his attendence at
Head Quarters. With much esteem etc.
P. S. The Boats should be of the strongest and best built
kind.
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 16, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received your favors of the 12th: and 13th:
The proceedings of the Court of Enquiry, on Colo. Varick,
accompanied the former."
I cannot conceive that the Jersey line has received the num-
ber of Recruits, which the Cloathing Return specifies, since
those which were inlisted last Winter, and they, I presume,
""Not now found among the Washington Papers.
1780]
CLOTHING 353
must have obtained their proportion of Cloathing with the
other Men. You will inquire more particularly into the mat-
ter, and if you find it right, you will direct the quantity abso-
lutely necessary to be delivered. I suppose, by the appearance
of the Return, that it includes two Shirts and two pair of
Stockings for each. Let those intitled have one of each at
present, and they will have a further, allowance when the
general distribution is made. We have no Cloathing of any
kind here. They must therefore take such as is at New Burgh.
I am in hopes that the Enemy do not mean to advance upon
the Northern Frontier, by their halting so long near the Lake.
I am &C.1 [ms.h.s.]
To MAJOR GENERAL SAMUEL HOLDEN PARSONS
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, November 16, 1780.
Sir: Since your promotion to the rank of a Major General,2
the objections you before had to serve with the Main Army
are obviated; you will therefore be pleased to join it as soon
as may be.
I hope your health is so far confirmed as to enable you to do
it without loss of time. I am etc.3
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL EBENEZER STEVENS
Head Quarters at Prekaness, November 16, 1780.
Sir: You will proceed with the Invalids and Baggage of the
Artillery to Murtherers Creek in the Neighbourhood of New
Windsor. You are to consult the Qr. Mr. General before you
march. Should he have no occasion for the speedy return of
1In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
3 Oct. 23, 1780.
3 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
354 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
the Waggons you are to proceed the whole way by land, tak-
ing the Route by Ringwood and through the Clove. But
should he have occasion for the Waggons shortly, you are to
proceed to Kings ferry and go up from thence by Water.
Upon your arrival at Murtherers Creek, you are to lodge the
Baggage securely, and then look out for a convenient piece of
Ground for hutting the Number of Officers and Men who will
be attached to the Park this Winter, of which Genl. Knox
will inform you. In doing this, you are to pay particular atten-
tion to the dryness of the soil; sufficiency of Wood for Building
and firing, and conveniency of Water. The position to be as
near New Windsor as the circumstances of Ground, Wood and
Water will permit. Having pitched upon the position, you
will set the Men to cutting Logs of proper lengths for build-
ing, and splitting Shingles.
General Knox may perhaps have some further directions to
give you. You will therefore apply to him before you set out.
And to the Quarter Master for an order for the necessary Tools.4
To MAJOR BENJAMIN TALLMADGE
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 16, 1780.
Sir : Your Letter of the 9th. Inst has been duly received. The
situation of affairs at the time referred to, must have been a
sufficient reason for not granting a passport to the Person men-
tioned in your Letter;5 had not the particular circumstances
respecting him justified the policy. On all such critical occa-
sions the most cautious line of conduct is undoubtedly requi-
site, and cannot be considered as injurious; however it might
carry the appearance of suspicion. But as Head Quarters will
4 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
6In Tallmadge's letter of November 9 the name of the person has been so care-
fully obliterated as to be indecipherable.
1780] A BRITISH SPY 355
soon be on the North River, I can have an opportunity of being
more explicit to the Person in question, than is expedient in a
Letter.
In future, I could wish the Names of Agents and such others
as ought not to be known to the Enemy, might not be written
in such a manner as to afford a possibility of detection, in case
the Letters should miscarry.
I will transmit Governor Greene the information you re-
quest. I am etc.
P. S. I am anxiously expecting the several Articles of Intelli-
gence I sollicited from you.6
To GOVERNOR WILLIAM GREENE
Head Quarters near Passaic Falls, November 16, 1780.
Sir: I have been informed that a certain George Howell, not
long since from the Enemy, is apprehended by the Supreme
Authority of the State of Rhode Island : Although such possi-
tive proof of his being an Emissary from the Enemy should
not be obtained as might convict him capitally; I have some
time ago received such information from confidential Persons,
as induces me to believe him to be a dangerous character, and
one who ought not to be suffered to go at large.
The purport of my information respecting Howel is, " that
no man's character was higher with the Enemy; that he was a
particular friend of Try on; that he kept a regular correspond-
ence with him and Col Birch7 while he (Howel) resided at
his native place; that he could obtain any indulgence and per-
mission to bring goods to almost any amount from New York,
when others could not; that an intimate friend of Howel,
6 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
7 Lieut. Col. Samuel Birch, of the Seventeenth Light Dragoons, British Army.
356 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
within the Enemy's Lines told my informant that Howel had
twice been out on the service of Government, and expressed
great anxiety for fear he was detected."
I thought proper your Excellency should be informed of
these particulars, as they may tend to corroborate other evi-
dence; notwithstanding my channel of information cannot be
given up to be made use of, for very obvious reasons. I have
the honor etc.8
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 16, 1780.
Gentlemen: Your favor of the 9th: did not reach me 'till
yesterday at Noon. I immediately wrote to Sir Henry Clinton
for the Passport for the Sloop Carolina Packet and dispatched
the letter to Elizabeth Town this Morning by Express. The
passport shall be transmitted to you the moment after I have
received it. I have the honour etc.9
To SIR HENRY CLINTON
Head Quarters, November 16, 1780.
Sir: I have to request a passport for the Sloop Carolina
Packet, Burthen eighty Tons, John Durry sailing master; Shef-
tall Sheftall Flag Master, one Mate and six seamen, from the
Port of Philada. to Charles town in South Carolina, laden
with provision and Cloathing for the American troops pris-
oners of War there; and also a permit for her return to the port
of Philada.
I have likewise to request, if it be agreeable to your Excel-
lency, that Mrs. Mary Mathews, with two Black servants named
sThe draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilcrhman.
1780] FRENCH OFFICERS 357
Simon and Kate, may have permission to go to Charles town
in the above Vessel. Mrs. Mathews would wish to be allowed
to return to Philada, when she has transacted the business upon
which she is desirous of going, and which I am assured is
merely of a private nature; but as she does not think it can
be accomplished by the time the Sloop Carolina packet will
return, it will be conferring a very great obligation upon the
Lady, would your Excellency signify your consent to her tak-
ing some other opportunity for that purpose. Should you deem
it inexpedient to grant Mrs. Mathews's request in its full ex-
tent, you may perhaps not think it improper to assent to the
first part of it only. I have the honor etc.10
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 16, 1780.
Sir: Your Excellency's favor of the 10th: reached me yester-
day. It gives me great pleasure to hear that your troops have
entered their quarters in a manner agreeable to themselves
and to the inhabitants. I shall be extremely happy in seeing
the Chevalier de Chattelus,11 Count de Custine,12 Marquis de
Laval,13 and Count de deux ponts14 at my Quarters. I will en-
deavour to render the time, which they spend with the Army,
agreeable to them, and when they incline to visit Philadelphia,
they may be assured of that permission, which you so politely
make to depend upon me.
10 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
"Francois Jean, Chevalier (later Marquis) de Chastellux. He was marechal de
camp and major general, French Army in America.
12 Adam Philippe, Comte de Custine-Sarreck. He was colonel of the regiment
Saintonge, and brigadier general in the French Army in America.
"Anne Alexandre Marie Sulpice Joseph Due de Montmorency de Laval. He was
colonel of the Regiment Bourbonnais, French Army in America.
"Gullaume, Comte de Deux Ponts. He was colonel en second of the Regiment
Royal Deux Ponts, French Army in America.
358 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
I have heard nothing lately from the Chesapeak Bay. An
intelligent person, who is employed to keep a look out upon
the Heights of Monmouth, informs me, that on Friday and
Saturday the ioth. and nth: instants a Fleet consisting of be-
tween 52 and 58 sail of which six were Men of War from 40
to 60 Guns came from the southward and anchored within
the Hook. My informant is of opinion, that it is the Fleet
returned from Virginia which sailed the 16th: ulto. from the
Hook. But I rather think it is the long expected Cork Fleet,
and my intelligence from New York announces the arrival
of that Fleet on Sunday last. I shall however ascertain the
matter very shortly, and I will communicate the result to your
Excellency.
I had heard a report of the discovery of a plot concerted by
one Ross of Virginia, but I believe it was without foundation.
I have the honor etc.15
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Thursday, November 16, 1780.
Parole Hamburgh. Countersigns X., U.
Watchword Silence.
Brigadier General Patterson
Colonel Vose
Lieutenant Colonel Badlam
Major T. L. Moore
Brigade Major Smith
Regimental returns of the Arms drawn for the respective
regiments this Campaign; the number now on hand and
which have been turned in to the Conductors to be made to the
Sub inspectors who will digest them into division returns and
transmit them to the Orderly Office by Saturday next. These
MThe draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
For the Day Tomorrow
1780]
LOSS OF ARMS 359
returns to be signed by the Colonels or Commanding Officers
of Regiments.
The Commander in Chief takes occasion to remind the Of-
ficers of the astonishing number of arms which have been
heretofore carried off by the discharged men and enjoins the
strictest attention to that matter at the approaching dismission
of the Levies. The commanding officers of regiments will be
answerable for all deficiencies which cannot be accounted for.
The Commander in Chief is pleased to Accept and Ap-
prove the following report of a court of Enquiry held at West
Point the 2d. instt. to examine into the Conduct of Lieutenant
Colonel Varick in his connexion with the late Major General
Arnold during his command at West point and relative to
his desertion to the Enemy. Colonel Van Schaick, president,
Lieutenant Colonels Cobb and Dearborne Major Reid and
Captain Cox16 Members.
The Court unanimously report their opinion " That Lieuten*
ant Colonel Varick's Conduct with respect to the base Pecula-
tions and Treasonable Practices of the late General Arnold is
not only unimpeachable but think him entitled (throughout
every part of his conduct) to a degree of Merit that does him
great honor as an Officer and particularly distinguishes him as
a sincere Friend to his Country."
The court martial whereof Colonel Bailey is president is
dissolv'd.
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 17, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received your favors of the 15th: and 16th:
instants. When the 1st: and 5th: New York Regiments were
18Capt. Richard Cox, of the Third New Jersey Regiment. He was transferred to the
Second New Jersey Regiment in January, 1781; appointed major in January, 1783;
served to close of the war.
360 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
ordered up to Albany, I directed Genl. Clinton, if he should
receive advice that the enemy had retired, to send them down
again. Under this order he accordingly directed their return.
I had not then fixed, in my mind, the line of Cantonment of
which I afterwards informed you. Upon the whole, it seems
lucky that they did return, as by the Copy of General Clintons
letter to you, there were no means of subsisting them at Albany.
You will direct them to be disembarked and disposed of for the
present in such a manner as will best answer the general plan
of cantonment mentioned in my private letter of the [12th
Instant]17 and for the purpose of making an addition to the
strength of your foraging party.
Capt. Hughes18 has obtained a Furlough upon the recom-
mendation of Major Torrey19 the commanding Officer of the
Regiment, and Lieut. Lewis20 has obtained his discharge upon
producing Vouchers signed by Major Torrey, Capt. White21 the
pay Master of the Regt. and the Auditors, that he had settled
all his public and Regimental Accounts. They have both gone
from Camp to their respective places of abode.
I fancy the account of Colo. Gansevoorts Regiment coming
down is premature. I desired General Schuyler to keep it at
Saratoga 'till further orders from me.
Major Ballard of Massachusetts who went up with the In-
valids of the Line will apply for leave to go to Poughkepsie
on business with the Governor. You will be pleased to grant it.
Iam&c.22 [ms.h.s.]
"Left blank in the letter sent and the date supplied from the draft.
13 Capt. John Hughes, of the Second Canadian Regiment. He resigned in Novem-
ber, 1 78 1.
19Maj. Joseph Torrey, of the Second Canadian Regiment. He was appointed lieu-
tenant colonel in May, 1782, and retired in June, 1783.
20 Lieut. Joseph Lewis, of the Second Canadian Regiment. He resigned in Novem-
ber, 1780.
21 Capt. Moses White, of the Second Canadian Regiment. He was aide to Colonel
(Brevet) Brigadier General Hazen in September, 1781, and to the close of the war.
22In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] WORN-OUT CAVALRY HORSES 361
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Friday, November 17, 1780.
Parole Naples. Countersigns Narva, Newark.
Watchword Now.
Brigadier General Wayne
Colonel Starr
For the Day Tomorrow] Lieutenant Colonel Hay
Major Wiley23
Brigade Major Converse24
INSTRUCTIONS TO COLONEL STEPHEN MOYLAN
Head Quarters, November 17, 1780.
You will immediately send off all your infirm and reduced
Horses to Lancaster in Pennsylvania at or near which place
your Regiment will be cantonned for the Winter.
You will give the Officer, who goes with the party, directions
to deliver over to the Deputy Qr. [Master]25 Genl. in Lancaster
County, all the Horses that you are of opinion will not be fit
for Dragoon service another Campaign, the remainder you
will have recruited and put in good order in the course of the
Winter.
You will particularly attend to that part of your former in-
structions pointing out the number of Horses to be kept by
each Officer according to his Rank, and see that the number
is not on any account exceeded. You will have all the old Ac-
coutrements repaired as soon as the Men are fixed in Quarters.
^Maj. John Wiley, of the Fourteenth Massachusetts Regiment. He retired in Janu-
ary, 1781.
24Capt. Thomas Converse, of the Seventh Connecticut Regiment. He was trans-
ferred to the Second Connecticut Regiment in January, 1781; made brigadier inspector
in July, 1 781; retired in January, 1783.
^The word within brackets was evidently inadvertently omitted.
362 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
As I presume that the State of Pennsylvania is to compleat
your Regiment to the establishment of the 3d. and 21st: Octo-
ber (which you have seen published in the General Orders of
the 1 st. Inst.) I would recommend it to you to wait upon the
President yourself, or direct an Officer to do it, with an exact
State of the Regiment as to Men and Horses and inform him
of the deficiencies in both. You will particularly explain to
him, that the times of a great part of your Men expire in the
course of the Winter, lest, in making provision for filling up
the Corps, he may count upon them.
I do not know the mode that will be fallen upon to procure
the Men and Horses; you will therefore govern yourself by the
directions which may be given to you by the Executive Author-
ity, in consequence of the measures which may be adopted.
Neither do I know whether the State or Continent are to pro-
vide your accoutrements. You will make yourself acquainted
with that circumstance, and apply in season to one or the other
of those necessary for a full Corps, as it is to be presumed that
the state will fully comply with the requisition of Congress.
I shall direct the Officer, with the part of the Regiment which
remains here, to repair to Lancaster as soon as the Army quits
the Field.26
*To MAJOR SAMUEL DARBY
Head Quarters, November 17, 1780.
Sir: You will take charge of the Boats with the Army, and
see that they are provided with Oars and held in the most per-
fect readiness for instant use. You will try them in the Water
to see if they are quite tight, when full loaded; and you will
ascertain the number of Men that each Boat will carry with
tolerable convenience, and make report thereof to me.
20 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780]
PREPARATION OF BOATS 363
You will number the Boats, and put them into three divi-
sions, each division to contain about the same number of Men;
and to be under the care of an Officer, each boat is to have five
Watermen in it, that is, four Rowers and one to Steer, these
Men are always to have their Arms, accoutrements, and a
sufficient quantity of Ammunition with them. They are to
be always with the Boats, because the call upon them may be
sudden, and for the sake of experiment, I wish it to be tried,
what number of Men it will take to carry (on their Shoulders
or otherwise) in uneven and difficult ground, one of the largest
siz'd Boats.
I wish it to be tried also, in how short a time these Boats can
be mounted on Carriages from the Water, and put into the
Water from the Carriages, each noted seperately.
You will also see, that the carriages on which the Boats are
placed, are good, and so constructed that the Boats will be as
little wrecked [racked?] as possible in their transportation;
and that they sustain no injury from the forewheels of the Car-
riages, in turning short.
You will apply to the Qr. Master General for Sheepskin's
and Nails to Muffle the Oars; which is to be done as much
undiscovered as possible.
Keep these instructions to yourself, for some days to come;
but do not delay a moment in complying with every thing
therein required.
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL NATHANIEL RAMSEY
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 18, 1780.
Sir: I am favored with Your Letter of the nth Instant, and
sincerely congratulate you on Your exchange.
The disposition you discover of instantly entering into an
activity of service, and rendering every possible assistance in
364 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
the defence of your Country, is too laudable to be passed by
unnoticed; Opportunities cannot be wanting to gratify so com-
mendable an inclination. But as the remains of Your Regt. are
with the southern Army, you will necessarily be considered
as under the immediate Orders of Majr General Greene;
who will be able to determine whether your presence is abso-
lutely necessary with the Army, or will be of more utility in
promoting the recruiting service in the State. In the mean
time, as Brig. Genl. Gist is employed in superintending that
service, it may not be improper to advise him of your libera-
tion, and receive his instructions, until Genl Greene shall write
to you, agreeably to his intimation. I am etc.27
To FRANCISCO RENDON
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 18, 1780.
Sir: I have been honored with your favr. of the 10th: Inst,
which only came to my hands the last Evening. Admiral Rod-
ney with five or six ships of the Line sailed from the Hook the
15th : inst. whether bound to the Eastward to form a junction
with Admiral Arbuthnot, to the West Indies, or to the South-
ward, is not ascertained. He took under his Convoy a number
of transport ships, but whether they had any troops on board I
am not yet informed. It is conjectured they had, and that they
are intended as a further reinforcement to the southern Army.
I have thought proper to communicate the above intelligence
to you, as a knowledge of the enemy's movements from this
quarter may be beneficial to His Most Catholic Majesty's Com-
manders in the West Indies and upon the Continent.
I am anxious to hear the result of the Expeditions which
you were pleased to inform me were in agitation, as I feel
27 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
For the Day Tomorrow
1780] CLEANLINESS OF CAMP 365
myself much interested in whatever concerns the advantage or
honor of your Court. I have the honor etc.28
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Saturday, November 18, 1780.
Parole Ostend. Countersigns Olney, Oxford.
Watchword Obedience.
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Butler
Lieutenant Colonel Johnston
Major Alexander
Brigade Major Sewall.
The General requests that particular attention be paid to
the order and cleanliness of the Camp: and to the service
of the Guards.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Sunday, November 19, 1780.
Parole Roxbury. Countersigns N., R.
Watchword Rest.
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel Tupper
Lieutenant Colonel Mentges
Major Tudor
Brigade Major Ashley
AFTER ORDERS
Lieutenant Colonel commandant Butler is appointed Offi-
cer of the day for tomorrow vice Colonel Tupper ordered on
command.
For the day Tomorrow-
28 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
366 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
To GEORGE WALTON29
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 19, 1780.
Sir: I was honored on the 17th: with your favor of nth:
I proposed the exchange of Lieut. Morris for Mr. Burke, to Sir
Henry Clinton on the 15th September last,30 but I have not re-
ceived any answer from him on the subject. I shall take occa-
sion to remind him of the application, in a letter I shall write
to him tomorrow.
Congress, by their Resolve of the nth: Feby. last directed
me to pay due regard to the exchange of Brigr. or Colo. Elbert,
should a general exchange, which was at that time in contem-
plation, be carried into execution. This I should most certainly
have done, had the exchange taken effect, but the negociation
was broken off, for want of proper powers on the part of the
British Commissioners, and the matter has since rested. Con-
gress have, as you must know, directed me to make new prop-
ositions for the exchange of the Convention Troops against
our southern prisoners; should the terms be acceded to, Mr.
Elbert will be exchanged, in turn, in the Rank of Brigadier of
Militia or Colonel of Continental troops, according to the com-
mand he held when taken. I am informed that the enemy
claim him as Brigadier.
I am ignorant of any transactions which may have passed
between General Lincoln and General Prevost on the subject.
I have requested liberty for Miss Camber31 to go to Charles
town in the Flag sloop Carolina Packet, upon the same terms
as those asked for Mrs. Mathews. I have the honor etc.32
20 Delegate to the Continental Congress from Georgia.
30 Sept. 17, 1780.
31 Miss Ann Sarah Camber, sister of Mrs. George Walton.
32 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] CLOTHING FORWARDED 367
To COLONEL TIMOTHY PICKERING
Head Quarters, November 19, 1780.
Sir: I have just received advice from Otis and Henley of Bos-
ton that they had, through the interest of the State, procured
upwards of forty Teams which they had loaded and sent for-
ward with Cloathing. They do not say how far the Teams are
to proceed, but in all probability no farther than Springfield,
at which place there is also a considerable quantity of Cloath-
ing much wanted by the Army. The bringing the whole for-
ward to New Burgh as expeditiously as possible is a matter so
indispensably necessary in the present naked condition of the
troops, that I must request you to send an active person of your
department to Springfield whose business it shall be to attend
solely to the forwarding the Cloathing from that place. If
you are not furnished with the means of procuring transporta-
tion, I will give the person who goes a letter to the Governor
of Connecticut soliciting his aid and assistance.
You will direct the above and all other public stores to come
the upper Route by Litchfield.
Be pleased to order the working party under Major Bruen
to return by Kakeate and Paramus to Camp. He will mend
that Road from Paramus to Camp which the Baggage came
when we marched last from that place; It falls in at Ryerson's
Mill. I am etc.33
To OTIS & HENLEY
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 19, 1780.
Gentlemen: I have reed, your favors of the 25th: ulto. and
8th. instant. I am glad to hear that part of the Goods
83 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
368 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
mentioned in the former had been sent off, and I hope the
Teams procured by the State will proceed at least as far as
Springfield. I shall give particular directions to the Quarter
Master General to have them brought forward from thence, as
well as those which have been laying there some time past. I beg
you will immediately forward what Cloth remains upon hand
to the Army with a proper quantity of thread, Buttons, and
other trimmings to make it up ; it will not only be done quicker
by the different Regimental Taylors, but it may be made into
the different Articles of Cloathing just as they are wanting.
Shirts you will have made in Boston.
I most sincerely wish that the business which Colo. Wiggles-
worth is upon may be compleated properly, as I cannot find
that we can depend, with any degree of certainty upon any
other Cloathing this Winter, than what is included in your
contract with the Tracey's.34 I am etc.35
To GOVERNOR JONATHAN TRUMBULL
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 19, 1780.
Dear Sir : The Bearer is sent by the Quarter
Master General purposely to superintend the forwarding a
quantity of Cloathing from Springfield to New Burgh, indeed
the whole of our dependance in that Article, as far as I can see,
for the Winter. The Quarter Master General is in hopes that
his deputies will be able to find the means of transportation
without applying to your Excellency for assistance, but should
they not, I must earnestly entreat you to give them the aid of
the State, as the troops will be much distressed for want of the
Cloathes before they can arrive, even with every possible
exertion.
'Nathaniel Tracy & Co., of Boston, Mass.
'The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] TROOPS IN NEW JERSEY 369
I am in hopes that the salted Beef which I requested your
Excellency to forward, in my letter of the 28th October has
been sent on. Our dependance for a Winter Magazine for Fort
Schuyler still rests upon that parcel. I have the honor etc.36
To GOVERNOR WILLIAM LIVINGSTON
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 19, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have been this day honored with Your Excel-
lency's favor of the 15th. You may be assured that I shall pur-
sue the same measures this Winter that I have invariably done
heretofore; of sending every Horse that can possibly be spared,
to a distance from the part of the Country which has been the
seat of the Army during the Campaign, and as there will be
fewer troops in Jersey this Winter than usual, I hope the in-
habitants will find relief in proportion. The exertions of the
State have been great, and it is intitled to every indulgence that
the nature of the service will allow.
Your Excellency and the Legislature must be sufficiently ac-
quainted with the state of the Army to know, that our force,
after the dismission of the Levies, will admit but few troops to
remain in Jersey. I shall throw all that can be spared, after
securing West point from any possible insult, on the communi-
cation from Morris Town to Kings Ferry, but as their numbers
will be but few, they cannot be cantoned nearer to the sound37
than Morris Town. They will occasionally keep patroles and
light parties advanced to give notice of any approach of the
Enemy. I am convinced that a force within striking distance
of an Enemy, any thing short of a body sufficient to keep
them in perfect awe, instead of affording protection to the
36 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
37 Staten Island Sound.
370 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
inhabitants, only serves as an inducement to bring the enemy
out upon them. I have the honor etc.38
*To PRESIDENT JOSEPH REED
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 20, 1780.
Dr. Sir: Your favor of the 15th. is just come to hand. I can-
not suffer myself to delay a moment in pronouncing, if Arnold
by the Words (in his letter to his wife) "I am treated with the
greatest politeness by General Washington and the Officers of
the Army who bitterly execrate Mr. Reed and the Council for
their villainous attempt to injure me " meant to comprehend
me in the latter part of the expression that he asserted an abso-
lute falsehood. It was at no time my inclination, much less
my intention to become a party in his cause; and I certainly
could not be So lost to my own character as to become a par-
tizan at the moment I was called upon, Officially to bring him
to tryal. I am not less mistaken, if he has not extended the
former part of the paragraph a little too far. True it is, he self
envited some civilities I never meant to shew him (or any Offi-
cer in arrest) and he received rebuke before I could convince
him of the impropriety of his entering upon a justification of
his conduct in my presence, and for bestowing such illiberal
abuses as he seem'd disposed to do, upon those whom he de-
nominated his persecutors. Although you have done me the
justice to disbelieve Arnolds assertions to his Wife a regard
to my own feelings and character claims a declaration of the
falsehood of it, from Dr. Sir etc.39
38 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
39 At this point in the draft the following is crossed off: "I shall take proper occasion
to speak of the contents of Genl. Schuylers letr. to Arnold; from my best recollection
and a recurrence to circumstances about the first of June, I am perswaded that my last
letter on this subject not only contained the substance, but the identical answer which
was given by me to the application. It is possible I might have said, that I looked
upon Genl. Arnold as a brave and enterprizing Officer."
J780] SPECIFIC SUPPLIES 371
*To JOHN SULLIVAN
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 20, 1780.
Dr. Sir: You have obliged me very much by your friendly
letter of the 12th., and I can assure you that I shall be very
happy in a continuation of them. You are too well acquainted
with my course of business to expect frequent, or long letters
from me, but I can truely say that I shall write to none with
more pleasure, when it is in my power to write at all, than
I shall do to you.
The determination of Congress to raise an Army for the
War, and the honorable establishment on which the Officers
are placed will, I am perswaded, be productive of much good.
Had the first measure been adopted four, or even three years
ago, I have not the smallest doubt in my mind, but that we
should at this day have been sitting under our vines and fig
trees in the full enjoyment of Peace and Independence, and
I have as little doubt that the value which I trust Officers will
now set upon their Commissions will prove the surest basis
of public Oeconomy. 'Twas idle to expect that Men who were
suffering every species of present distress with the prospect of
inevitable ruin before them could bear to have the cord of dis-
cipline strained to its proper tune, and where that is not the
case it is no difficult matter to form an idea of the want of
order; or to convince Military men of its consequent evils.
It is to be lamented that the call upon the States for specific
Supplies should come at this late hour, because it is much to be
feared that before those at a distance can be furnished with
the resolves and make their arrangements, the Season for Salt-
ing Provision will be irretrievably lost; and this leads me to a
remark which I could wish never to make. It is, that the multi-
plicity of business in which Congress are engaged will not let
372 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
them extend that seasonable and provident care to many mat-
ters which private convenience and public oeconomy indispen-
sably call for; and proves, in my opinion, the evident necessity
of committing more of the executive business to small boards,
or responsable characters than is practiced at present for I am
very well convinced that for want of system in the execution of
business and a proper timing of things, that our public expendi-
tures are inconceivably greater than they ought to be. Many
instances might be given in proof, but I will confine myself to
the article of Cloathing as we are feelingly reminded of it.
This, instead of being ready in the Fall for delivery, is then
to be provided, or to be drawn from the Lord knows whither;
and after forcing many Soldiers from the field for want of
it, is eked out at different periods as it can be had through
the winter, till Spring; and in such a piece-meal way, that the
Soldr. derivg. little comfort from it is hurt both in appearance
and pride while the recruiting Service is Greatly injured by
it. Was this the result of necessity, not a word would be said;
but it is the effect of a dividd. attentn. or over much business
for at the period of the extreme suffering of the Army, we can
hear of Cloathing in different places falling a prey to moth,
and cankerworms of a worse kind; and I am much mistaken
too, if the Cloathing System (if ours can be called a System)
does not afford a fruitful field for stock-jobbing &ca.
It may be asked what remedy I would apply to these evils ?
In my opinion there is a plain and easy one. It will not I ac-
knowledge give relief to our immediate and pressing wants
no more than order can succeed confusion in a moment, but
as both must have a beginning: Let Congress without delay
(for this is the season to be lookg. forwd. to the Supplies for
another year) employ some eminent Merchant of approved
integrity and abilities to import (in his own way) Materials
1780] CLOTHING MATTERS 373
for the annual cloathing of Officers and Men agreably to esti-
mates to be furnished by the Cloathier General; Or if they
prefer it, let these imports be made by a Committee of their
own body. When a stock is once obtained, discontinue all
Continental Agents and State Agents for Continental purposes
and confine the business of Cloathing the Army wholly to
the Importer, Clothier Genl., and Regimental Cloathiers; this
would be easy and simple, and would soon extricate that de-
partment from those embarrassments, and impositions which
have a tendency to distress individuals and load the public with
an enormous expence.
At present we do not know where, or to whom to apply.
I have made the distresses of the Army known to Congress,
the Board of War and the States Individually without learn-
ing from whence the supplies are to come and can without the
aid of a perspective see a very gloomy prospect before us this
Winter on the Score of Cloathing.
I have two reasons for prefering the Materials for Cloathing
to ready made Cloaths; first because I think we can have them
made by the Regimental Taylors to fit each Man, and to suit
the fashion of each Regiment. And secondly because the Ma-
terials will always be a more ready Sale if Peace takes place and
the Troops are disbanded than ready made Cloaths, they wd.
attract less notice too at the places of Export. Another question
may arise here; where are the means? Means must be found
or the Soldiers go naked: but I will take the liberty in this
place to give it as my opinion that a foreign loan is indispen-
sably necessary to the continuance of the War. Congress will
deceive themselves if they imagine that the Army, or a State
that is the theatre of War can rub through a second Campaign
as the last. It would be as unreasonable as to suppose that be-
cause a man had rolled a Snow-ball 'till it had acquired the
374 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
size of a horse that he might do so till it was as large as a
House. Matters may be pushed to a certain point, beyond
which we cannot move them. Ten Months pay is now due to
the Army. Every departmt. of it is so much indebted that we
have not credit for a single Express; and some of the States are
harrassed and oppressed to a degree beyond bearing. To de-
pend, under these circumstances, upon the resources of the
Country, unassisted by foreign loans will I am confident, be to
lean on a broken Reed.
The situation of the Southern States is very embarrassing
and I wish it was in my power to afford them relief in the way
you have mention'd, but it is not. The very measure you sug-
gest / urged as far as decency and policy would permit me to
do at the Interview at Hartford, but to no effect. I cannot be
more particular on this subject, and what I now say, is in
confidence.40
The report of Sir Henry Clinton's going to the Southward
was groundless and I believe few Troops have left New York
since those under Leslie. I set out with telling you, I could not
write long letters, but have ended with a flat contradiction of
it. I am etc.
To ARTHUR LEE
[Hd Qrs. Passaic Falls, November 20, 1780.]
Sir: I am much obliged to you for the suggestion which you
do me the favour to make in your Letter of the nth, as I shall
at all times be for any others which may occur to you advancive
of the public service.
40 "I beg leave to Subpiit to your Excellencys considerations whether it would not
be prudent to order the French Fleet to Boston where they may Lay in Safety and call
the French Army to head Quarters? Will not this cause Sir Henry to tremble for New
York and Deminish the force if not Totally prevent the Blow meditated against the
Southern States." — Sullivan to Washington, Nov. 12, 1780. Sullivan's letter is in
the Washington Papers.
1780] A FOREIGN LOAN 375
I am so entirely convinced of the absolute necessity of a large
and immediate foreign aid of money, to the continuance of the
war, that I should be happy to do any thing I could with pro-
priety to promote it. I impart to you in confidence, that I have
in the most explicit manner given my sentiments on this head
to the Minister of France here; and if my Opinion can have
any influence with the Court of Versailles, I imagine it will be
known through this channel. A more direct communication
might appear an intrusion and an interference in matters out
of my province. I am happy to hear Congress have this impor-
tant object under consideration.
I persuade myself they will urge it with all the emphasis in
their power and in the form most likely to succeed. If there
should be any thing by which I could contribute to the success
of the application, I should certainly think it my duty to give
all the aid in my power.
I have the honor to be etc.41
To SIR HENRY CLINTON
Head Quarters, November 20, 1780.
Sir: I am authorised by Congress to propose a meeting of
Commissioners for the purpose of effecting an exchange of all
Continental prisoners of war, now in your possession and of
the hostages given in Canada, as well as of all officers on parole
and officers violators of parole, and Militia, actually taken in
arms and remaining prisoners of war, for an equal number of
The Convention troops, and other prisoners in our hands rank
for rank, and where similar rank will not apply to pursue
the exchange on the footing of composition, according to the
41 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton. The date line is in the writing
of Washington.
376 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
valuation or tariff agreed on by the Commissioners at Amboy in
march last. In this business will of course come into contem-
plation an equitable adjustment and payment of the accounts
of the Convention troops. I think it necessary to apprise you of
this circumstance, that there may be no misapprehension, and
that if the Commissioners meet they may come cloathed with
proper powers to render the meeting effectual. I request your
speedy answer; after which the time and place of meeting may
be regulated.
I beg leave to recall your Excellency's attention to my letter of
the 15th of September42 proposing an exchange of Lt Morris
of the Georgia Artillery for Mr Burke of the Island of An-
tigua; to which you have not yet favoured me with an answer.
To the application in behalf of Mrs. Mathews, I take the
liberty to add another for a similar permission to Miss Anne
Sarah Camber in the same vessel. I am etc.43
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 20, 1780.
Sir: I was duly honored with your Excellency's letter of the
12th, and shall properly attend to its important contents.44
I hope the measures I had previously taken relative to the ex-
change of prisoners, announced in my letter of the 7th will not
be disagreeable to Congress; they were founded on an opinion
"Sept. 17, 1780.
43 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
44 The President's letter of November 12 inclosed resolves of Congress of the 4th,
7th, 9th, and 10th. The one of the 7th authorized Washington to effect an exchange
of all Continental prisoners of war, the hostages in Canada, etc., including the Con-
vention troops, if the exchange of the latter could " be effected upon the Terms men-
tioned in the Act." The resolve of the 9th discontinued the hospital chaplains and
directed the brigade chaplains to attend the hospitals from time to time. The resolve
of the 10th directed the removal of all horses not absolutely necessary from camp in
order to save forage. This letter is in the Washing/on Papers.
1780] REMOVAL OF HORSES 377
I had constantly entertained that it was our interest to extend
the exchange of officers as far as possible, distinct from all other
considerations, and a belief that this was also consonant to the
intentions of Congress. In your Excellency's letter of the 25th
of June last, that of General Lincoln of the 22d. on the subject of
a general exchange is referred to me; in my answer of the
10th of July, I hold up the idea now mentioned in the clearest
terms, and the resolution of the 7th. of August in consequence,
authorizing the exchange then in contemplation, is in the same
spirit. From these circumstances I readily consented to the
subsequent propositions communicated in my letter of the 7th
Instant.
As the late Act of the 7th. for a general exchange revives
the question of Accounts, and seems to make a provision for the
payment of them requisite prior to an exchange of any part of
the Convention Troops, I am induced to take the liberty to
offer this explanation of the grounds on which I acted, which
I shall be happy may be satisfactory.
I shall immediately make a proposal to Sir Henry Clinton
for a meeting of Commissioners on the terms now prescribed;
though I really apprehend it will either not take place, or be
fruitless, as the Enemy seem fixed in the determination not to
come into a settlement of Accounts or the payment of any con-
siderable demand on the score of the Convention Troops.
Your Excellency may rely that no deviation from the Order
of capture shall ever take place in any exchanges made by me,
where it has heretofore been done in particular cases, it has not
originated with me; except in the instance of General Lincolns
two Aids, which the respect due to a General Officer, and the
customs of service dictated.
The Arrangement for a removal of all Horses that can be
spared from the Army is conformable to our practice all the
378 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
past winters; and will be punctually executed the moment we
go into Quarters.
I shall as soon as possible carry into execution the other Mat-
ters contained in Your Excellency's dispatches, so far as they
depend on me. With the most perfect respect etc.
P. S. I omitted acknowledging Your Excellency's favor of
the 8th respecting Van Wert, Paulding and Williams.45 The
recompense is ample; it is an evidence of the generosity of Con-
gress, a flattering tribute to the virtue of those Citizens, and
must prove a powerful incitement to others to imitate their
example.46
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL THOMAS FORREST
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 20, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, your favor of the 12th: It gives me pain to
find an Officer of merit under the necessity of quitting the
service for the reasons you mention, and I should very readily
consent to your retiring in the manner and upon the terms you
propose, did I see that it could be done consistently with the
Regulations of the 3rd. and 21st: of October last.
When you speak of five Lieut. Colonels of Artillery I pre-
sume you include the Lieutenant Colonel of the South Caro-
lina Regiment, but I cannot find by any construction of the
Regulations above referred to, that the Officers of that Regi-
ment can be introduced into either of the four that have served
together in this quarter. That Regiment, both as to Officers
and Men, appears to me to be totally reformed. Indeed it was
always considered as being upon a different foundation from
the others. The Officers never rolled together, and while those
45 Captors o£ Andre. (See Journals of the Continental Congress, Nov. 3, 1780.)
40 In the writing of David Humphreys.
1780] BOAT CARRIAGES 379
in the South Carolina Regiment were promoted Regimentally
to the Rank of Colonel, those in the other four were promoted
lineally to the Rank of Field Officers. This is a further reason
against introducing the former among the latter at this period,
as both the Colonel and Lt. Colonel of the Southern Regiment
would I am informed be found (if considered upon a lineal
scale of the five Regiments) junior Officers to some of the
Majors of the other four. I am &c.47
To COLONEL TIMOTHY PICKERING
Head Quarters, November 20, 1780.
Sir: There are five boats ordered from Kings ferry to Dobbes
ferry, which The General directs you will immediately send a
proper number of carriages for and bring them to where the
other boats are and let no delay attend it, if you please.48
Have you had the four which were already there brought
on? Your etc.49
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Monday, November 20, 1780.
Parole Tripoli. Countersigns Troy, Trim.
Watchword Try.
Brigadier General Patterson
Lieutenant Colonel commandant
Hubley
Lieutenant Colonel Fernald
Major Wallbridge
Brigade Major Pettingill
For the Day Tomorrow.
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
48 This was one of the many details arranged for the projected attack on New York
City by way of Kingsbridge some time toward the end of November, 1780.
49 The draft is in the writing of and is signed "A. H., A. D. C."
For the day Tomorrow
380 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
Return of Shoes wanting by the Artillery, Connecticut and
Massachusetts lines, to be made this afternoon to the Adjutant
General, and the shoes drawn tomorrow.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Tuesday, November 21, 1780.
Parole Verona. Countersigns Z., U.
Watchword Valor.
Brigadier General Wayne
Lieutenant Colonel commandant
Smith
Lieutenant Colonel Peters
Major Maxwell
Brigade Major Moore
The General having received intelligence that the enemy
mean to make a Forage in this State;50 the Army is to be held
in readiness to move at a moments warning: They will keep
two days provision cooked before hand. The officers are to re-
main in Camp and no passes granted to soldiers to go beyond
the limits of Camp 'till further orders.
The Quarter Master General will have orders respecting the
horses of the army.
To BRIGADIER GENERAL ANTHONY WAYNE
Head Quarters, November 21, 1780.
Dr. Sir: On [Friday]51 morning, at [Sun rising] you will
march the division under your command to a mile below Ac-
quaquenack Bridge, advancing a Regiment a Mile or two in
50 The reason was assigned to explain the activities which were directed against New
York City.
61 Which would be November 24.
1780] MARCH OF TROOPS 381
your front towards New Ark, and remain in this position 'till
Retreat beating. You will then renew your march, slowly, a
Mile or two forward [and till it is quite dark] and there halt
till further orders. These will reach you in all probability be-
fore you halt.
When you arrive however at Acquaquenac, you will begin
a Forage, for which purpose a number of Waggons will be sent
down: but you will do this in such a manner as not to fatigue
your Men, whose services may be wanted in a more essential
manner. You will have two days' provision cooked, [three wd.
be better]
You know the importance of secrecy in all military move-
ments. I am etc.52 [h.s.p.]
To BRIGADIER GENERAL JOHN STARK
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 21, 1780.
Sir : Capt. Humphreys 53 one of my Aides de Camp, is charged
by me with orders of a private and particular nature, which he
is to deliver to you and which you are to obey.54 He will inform
you of the necessity of this mode of communication. I am etc.55
To COLONEL STEPHEN MOYLAN
Head Quarters, November 21, 1780.
Sir : At nine OClock in the Morning of 24th: Friday you will
parade with your regiment at Totawa bridge, furnished with
two days' provisions; and you will detach parties towards the
62 In the writing of Tench Tilghman. The words in brackets are in the writing of
Washington.
°3 Lieut. Col. David Humphreys.
04 Stark was then commanding a detachment at White Plains.
C5The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
382 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
New Bridge and thence upwards to the bridge near Demeries56
and downwards as far as you think necessary to answer the
purpose, to secure all the crossing places on the Hackensack
and prevent any person going with intelligence to the enemy.
You will select a sufficient party of the trustiest of your men to
patrole from the Marquis's old Quarters below the liberty Pole
towards Bergen Town, bulls ferry, Wehowk, Hobuck &c. A
Vidette to be constantly at Bull's ferry, and make reports every
two hours.
Major Goetchius is also ordered with his Militia to patrole
from the New bridge downwards for the same purpose.
Much depends on the punctual execution of these orders,
for which I have entire reliance on your judgment and knowl-
edge of the Country. I confide the rest to your discretion.
I am etc.
Van Heers Corps will join you and take your orders. Be
pleased to acknowledge the Rect. of this.57
To COLONEL THOMAS CRAIG
Head Quarters, November 21, 1780.
Sir: On thursday morning you will march with all the Men
of your detachment fit for duty58 to Springfield, where you will
halt during the night and next day 'till three OClock in the
afternoon; at three oClock on friday, you will move towards
Elizabeth Town, making a slow easy march to avoid fatiguing
your men.
At Elizabeth Town, you will receive further orders from a
General Officer, which you will obey. It will be necessary to
execute this order with punctuality. I am etc.
56Demorest's.
"The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton and Tench Tilghman.
68 Colonel Craig was at Morristown, N. J.
1780] THE BRITISH LINES 383
P. S. Let your party be provided with two days provision
cooked. They are also to go without Baggage.59
To COLONEL JEAN BAPTISTE GOUVION
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 21, 1780.
Sir: You will proceed to Fort Lee and thence with the great-
est secrecy and caution along the margin of the North River to
the Landing which is opposite Spiten Devil Creek. You will
observe with the greatest accuracy possible the number and
situation of the enemy s works from Fort Washington upwards;
the huts, encampments, barracks in or near them; the number
of troops that occupy these and are otherwise within view; the
landing places on the Island, noting which are easiest for de-
barking troops, and which admit most of secrecy; the ap-
proaches to the several works, particularly Fort Washington,
the redoubt on the same ridge to the Northward of it, and
Laurel Hill; the guard houses and washing houses along the
river; the vessels, boats &c. in the river and their several stations.
You will make these observations at different points from
the landing opposite Spiten Devil to the banks opposite the
hollow that extends across to Harlaem River. You will endeav-
our to arrive in time tomorrow morning to observe where the
troops parade at Assembly, which will the better enable you to
judge of their number.
In short you will make every observation necessary for form-
ing a plan for surprising the posts which have been mentioned
by a night expedition, and for determining the propriety of
such an attempt.
You will also remark the state of the roads from the encamp-
ment of the light corps to Fort Lee; particularly that part of it
58 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton and Tench Tilghman.
384 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
from the Heights of Fort Lee to the landing below, to ascer-
tain the practicability of moving down boats in carriages to
the landing either in waggons or on the shoulders of men.
The perfect confidence I have in your judgment and address
assures me that you will execute this trust in the most proper
manner.
For your better security I shall send a patrole towards the
three pigeons but who shall not fall in with you or know any
thing of your errand. I shall expect your report tomorrow
night or very early next morning. I am etc.
P. S. You will observe whether there are any small boats at
any of the landings on this side which the inhabitants may
make use of to convey intelligence.60
To MAJOR JOHN MAURITIUS GOETCHIUS
Head Quarters, November 21, 1780.
Sir: Relying upon your prudence, I inform you in confi-
dence, that I have in contemplation a movement of some im-
portance towards Elizabeth Town, in which you will be very
useful by securing all the water craft on the Hackensack from
the New Bridge downwards and effectually guarding all the
crossing places, fords &c. so that no person may be able to pass
to the enemy with intelligence. You will begin to do this busi-
ness on Friday the 24th. at twelve O Clock at noon and will
continue your vigilance all the succeeding night. Much de-
pends on your activity, secrecy and punctuality. I shall send
other guards to other places for the same purpose. I am etc.
Acknowledge the Rect. of this letter that I may be certain
you have reed. it. A party should stop the passage thro' the
Cedar Swamp.61
^The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
01 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton and Tench Tilghman.
1780] INTERCEPTION OF FLOUR 385
To MAJOR THOMAS PARR
Head Quarters, November 21, 1780.
Sir: I have received private information that some inhab-
itants of Bergen County will probably on thursday evening
carry into the enemy at Powles Hook a quantity of flour and
other provision. As this kind of traffic is very pernicious, I am
particularly desirous of detecting some of those who carry it on
in the fact that an example may be made of them. You will
therefore on thursday afternoon move with your corps as se-
cretly as possible by way of the new bridge to three pigeons,
and there continue scouring the neighbouring roads during
the night.
If you meet with the persons, I have described you will send
them immediately with their effects to the Adjutant General;
and in any case you will retire on friday to the liberty Pole
where you will remain till next day, and then march to camp.
You will keep your men together and be vigilant against a sur-
prise. Iam&c.62
To CAPTAIN JOHN FOWLES63
Head Quarters, November 21, 1780.
Sir: I have reed your Letter of this Morng. and hope the
Horses under your charge have been removed out of the way
of danger.
You will be pleased to keep a vigilant look out, and give me
the earliest information of any movemt that may be made
by the Enemy. A party of Col Moylan's Dragoons, are ordered
to Crane,64 to communicate the intelligence. I am etc.65
02 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
63 Of the Thirteenth Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred to the Third
Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1781, and served to June, 1783.
"Cranetown, N.J.
65 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
386 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
To BRIGADIER GENERAL HENRY KNOX
Head Quarters, November 22, 1780.
Sir: By twelve OClock on friday you will have ready all such
pieces of your park as are most proper to annoy shipping and
cover a body of troops in their passage across a river; a relief of
horses to accompany them will be desirable if they are to be
had. Your usual punctuality assures me of the same in this
instance. I am etc.66
To BRIGADIER GENERAL ANTHONY WAYNE
Head Quarters, November 22, 1780.
Dear Sir : The appointment to which you interest yourself in
behalf of Mr. Watkins67 does not lay ultimately with me, but as
it is more than probable that Congress will consult me before
they nominate a successor to Mr. Erskine, I think it but a piece
of candor to declare that I think myself obliged in justice to
Mr. De Witt, who has been long and constantly in the Office,
[and of whose abilities I have] heard [Mr. Irskine speak in
very high terms] to recommend him to the vacancy occasioned
by Mr. Erskines death.
I have been unreserved upon the occasion, because it would
not be treating a Gentleman of Mr. Watkins's character with
propriety, to amuse him with false expectations. I am etc.68
To COLONEL TIMOTHY PICKERING
Head Quarters, November 22, 1780.
Sir : You have been directed to furnish the Commander of
the Boats with materials for muffling the oars; to pay particular
68 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
67 John W. Watkins, geographer.
68 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780]
BOAT MOVEMENT 387
attention that they are in good order; well provided with oars;
mounted on good carriages and in such a manner that they
cannot be injured; that the horses are with them by thursday
twelve oClock; that they are then removed through the Notch
below the mountain there to remain 'till friday morning; that
there is hay (and grain if possible) ready at that place to feed
them amply; and that there is hay and grain also, at Acqua-
kanunk bridge to feed them during the halt there. These
particulars I doubt not you have taken your measures for.
I am now too add that on friday by OClock the transpor-
tation of the boats from the Notch to Acquakanunk bridge is
to commence and that it will be of the greatest importance to
have a complete relief of good horses ready at Acquakanunck
bridge early on friday afternoon to accompany the boats and at
a proper place relieve the others to hasten the transportation.
You will also furnish the officer commanding the boats with
oakum, thin plank and nails, to repair them with expedition in
case of accident.
I must entreat your personal attention as far as practicable to
the execution of these orders, that there may be a failure in no
single article to defeat our object, which if happily terminated,
will have most valuable consequences. I rely absolutely upon
your exertions and will not doubt the accomplishment of my
wishes so far as depends upon you. I am etc.
P. S. Some Forage will be necessary at the park of Artillery
for the Horses that are to move the heavy pieces.69
* To CAPTAIN AARON OGDEN
Head Quarters, November 22, 1780.
Sir: The letter from Major Crane is left open for your peru-
sal. You will converse with this Officer on the several objects
60 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton and Tench Tilghman.
388 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
of it, and after obtaining a knowledge of the number of Boats,
their sizes, and how they can be got to the places I have men-
tioned to you, and have fixed the matter with respect to guides,
you are to return with a report of your proceedings; at any
rate you must be back by noon on friday.
Your own prudence will dictate to you a cautious conduct;
not only with respect to secrecy, but for the safety of your
person.
To MAJOR SAMUEL DARBY
Head Quarters, November 22, 1780.
Sir: You have been directed to do every thing necessary for
putting the boats under your care in perfect order, muffling the
oars &c. and the Quarter Master General has been desired to
furnish you will all the necessary means.
You will be pleased to distribute your boats into four equal
divisions, as nearly as may be, both with respect to number and
size, numbering the whole 1. 2. 3. &c. each of these divisions
you will place under the particular command of one of your
subalterns, the whole under your general direction. You will
make a previous distribution of the hands to each boat that
every officer and man may know his place to prevent confusion.
On thursday twelve OClock you are to begin to move the
boats, through the Notch below the mountain to the first farm
Houses, where they are to halt till friday. On friday at 12
OClock they are to recommence their march to Acquakanunk
bridge, by the left hand road leading by Henry Garritsons
where they are to halt and the horses to be refreshed. The place
I would have the Boats stopped at is in the field where a former
encampment was about two or three Hundred yards this side
the Bridge and Church.
You are yourself, upon your arrival at Acquaqunack, to
make the same inquiries for which you have been directed
1780] BOAT MOVEMENT 389
to send an officer, respecting the navigation down the Passaic;
the state of the tide, the interruptions windings &ca. in the
river, that you may be fully acquainted with every circum-
stance of that kind necessary for your government.
In all your movements I shall depend upon an absolute pre-
cision, and the greatest dispatch practicable, when you re-
ceive your final orders; for on this hangs the most important
consequences.
I need not recommend secrecy respecting your orders; Your
own prudence will direct you. I am &c.
P. S. You will acknowledge the Rect. of the above: should
there be any part of it which you do not clearly understand,
be pleased to come up to me.70
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa,
Wednesday, November 22, 1780.
Parole . Countersigns .
Watchword .
Brigadier General Huntington
Lieutenant Colonel commandant
Sherman
Lieutenant Colonel Hull
Major Talbot
Brigade Major Van Laer
A Fatigue party of fifty men properly officered from the
Massachusetts and Connecticut lines with four days provision
to parade tomorrow morning at Guard mounting at the Quar-
ter master General's and take his orders. This party will join
their respective corps at West point.
70 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton and Tench Tilghman.
For the Day Tomorrow
390 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
A Sub Serjeant and Twenty rank and file from the afore-
mentioned lines to parade at the same time at the Forage mas-
ter General's and wait his orders.
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL DAVID HUMPHREYS
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 22, 1780.
Sir: You are immediately to proceed to West Point and com-
municate the business committed to you, in confidence to Majr
Genl Heath, and to no other person whatsoever; from thence
you will repair to the Detachmt at the White Plains, on friday
next, taking Measures to prevent their leaving that place, before
you get to them. And in the course of the succeeding Night
you may inform the Commanding Officer, of the Enterprise
in contemplation against the Enemy's Posts on York Island.
As the Troops are constantly to lye on their Arms, no pre-
vious notice should be given, but they may be put in motion
precisely at 4 OClock, and commence a slow and regular
march towards Kings Bridge, untill they shall discover, or
be informed of, the concerted signals being made, when the
march must be pressed with the greatest rapidity. Parties of
Horse should be sent forward to keep a look out for the signals.
Altho the main Body ought to be kept Compact, Patroles of
Horse and light Parties might be sent towards East and West
Chester. And upon the signals being discovered, Sheldons
Regt. and the Connecticut State Troops (which may also be
put in Motion as soon as the Orders can be communicated after
4 OClock) should be pushed forward to intercept any of the
Enemy, who may attempt to gain Frogs Neck, and to Cut off
the Refugee Corps at Morrissania. A few Men with some ad-
dress, may spread such an Alarm as to prevent an attempt of
the Enemy to retreat to Frogs Neck, from an apprehension
of surrounding Parties.
1780] MARCHING ORDERS 391
You will communicate these instructions to the Command-
ing Officer of the Detachmt. who upon his approach to Kings
Bridge, will receive Orders from me as early as possible.
Should the signals not be discovered, the Troops will halt at
least 6 Miles from the Bridge, untill further intelligence can
be obtained.
The absolute necessity of the most perfect secrecy is the occa-
sion of Communicating my Orders thro this channel.71
To LORD STIRLING
Head Quarters, November 23, 1780.
My Lord: After perusing the inclosed order, you will be
pleased to communicate it as soon as possible to Brig. Genl.
Wayne. Be pleased to acknowledge the receipt of this, that I
may be sure it got to hand. Iam&c.72 [n.y.h.s.]
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa,
Wednesday, November 23, 1780.
Parole . Countersigns .
Watchword — .
For the day Tomorrow
Brigadier General Glover
Colonel Bailey
Lieutenant Colonel Mellen
Major Winslow
Brigade Major Smith
The Army will march tomorrow at eleven o'clock; the Gen-
eral will beat at ten; the Assemble at half past ten and the
March at precisely eleven. The Quarter Master General will
"The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
"In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
392 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
furnish the order of March and Route. The Troops will have
two days provision cooked.
After the late rainy weather it will be expedient to Inspect the
State of the Arms and Ammunition and supply Deficiencies.
To MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE
Head Quarters, November 23, 1780.
Dear Marquis: Be pleased to order Capt. Von Heer to parade
tomorrow Morning at nine OClock with his Corps at Totawa
Bridge, with two days provision. He will meet Colo. Moylan
there from whom he is to take orders. Let Capt. Bedkin with
his Corps be at your Quarters tomorrow, by one OClk and
there wait my orders. Let him have two days provision also.
Iam&c.73
To COLONEL ALEXANDER SCAMMELL
Head Quarters, November 23, 1780.
Dear Sir: Be pleased to order a party of sixty strong Pioneers
from the Connecticut and Massachusetts lines with their Arms,
and spades, shovels, Axes and Picks, and two days provision
to parade tomorrow at 12 OClock upon the right of late Nixons
Brigade. A party of ten or twelve Artificers (Carpenters) to
parade with them at the same time. I am &c.73
*To MAJOR WILLIAM CRANE
Head Quarters, Passaic-falls,
Thursday, November 23, 1780.
Sir: Captn. Ogden will communicate to you in confidence
(and more fully than I can do by letter) the business on which
73 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] COLLECTION OF BOATS 393
he is sent in the execution of which I must require your aid and
best exertion. The Boats with the Army are inadequate to the
purposes I have in view; more therefore must be provided at,
and in the vicinity of Elizabeth town, they will be wanted to
morrow night by one o'clock at farthest. The mode of collect-
ing them in a way least liable to suspicion at the point of Em-
barkation or contiguous thereto will be left to your discretion.
It is much my wish to know also if it be practicable without
creating suspicion to have a few Boats drawn together at the
old blazing star or some other unsuspected place in that part of
the Sound by means of which a party could be thrown undis-
covered upon the Island.
Several good Guides well acquainted with the roads leading
to the enemys Works at the Watering place flag start and Rich-
mond will be wanted by the hour the boats are required to be
in readiness; the necessity of using art and address to provide
these without giving suspicion you will readily see the pro-
priety of and act accordingly.
As I presume the detachment at New Ark under Captn.
[Aaron]74 Ogden is subject to your command I have to request
that you will order him and his party to join you at Elizabeth
Town after dark on friday Night and be in perfect readiness
yourself to follow such further Orders as you may receive from
me or other Superior Officer, by whom you may be joined. If
you could with any kind of certainty know what Troops are
upon Staten Island; whether any re-inforcement has been sent
there lately, or is expected and whether they have any suspicion
of our making an attempt upon the Island it would be very ac-
ceptable to me and the earlier I could receive the intelligence
on Friday the better.
74 Left blank in Washington's draft.
394 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
You must I am perswaded, be too deeply impressed with the
necessity of secrecy in the managt. of this business to need of
admonition. I am &c.
To EPHRAIM BLAINE
Head Quarters, November 23, 1780.
Sir: I inclose you an extract of a letter which I have received
from Col Hay. The case of Major Hale75 appears peculiar, and
as far as public considerations will permit, to merit particular
attention. I can however do nothing but refer him to you. I
doubt not you will do every thing in your power to render him
justice. I am etc.76
To CAPTAIN JUDAH ALDEN77
Head Quarters, November 23, 1780.
Sir: I impart to you in confidence that I intend to execute an
Enterprise tomorrow Night upon Staten Island,78 for which
reason I am desirous of cutting off all intercourse with the en-
emy upon the East side of the River. You will therefore tomor-
row at Retreat beating set a guard upon any Boats which may
be at the Slot or Niack, and not suffer any to go out on any pre-
tence whatever.79 Towards evening you will sent a small party
down to the Closter landings and if they find any Boats there,
you will give orders to have them scuttled in such a manner
that they cannot be immediately used; but to prevent a possi-
bility of it the party may remain there till towards day light but
75Maj. Daniel Hale, New York State agent.
78The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
"Of the Second Massachusetts Regiment. He served to November, 1783.
78 A blind for the real enterprise against New York.
79 Captain Alden was stationed at Dobbs Ferry.
1780] RECALL OF TROOPS 395
aire not to make fires or discover themselves and then return to
your post.
I depend upon the punctual observation of this order, and
that you will keep the motive a secret.
Acknowledge the Rect. of this, that I may be sure you have
got. Iam&c.80
To COLONEL STEPHEN MOYLAN
Head Quarters, November 24, 1780.
Dear Sir: Circumstances render the command upon which
you were ordered unnecessary.81 You will therefore dismiss the
party; sending off the inclosed by trusty and well mounted
Dragoons. That to Captain Alden at Dobbs ferry requires
particular dispatch. I shall expect your Company at dinner.
Iam&c.82
To COLONEL THOMAS CRAIG 83
Head Quarters, November 24, 1780.
Sir: Circumstances having rendered the prosecution of the
Enterprise which I had in view inexpedient, you will be pleased
to march your party back to their encampment. I am etc.82
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL DAVID HUMPHREYS
Head Quarters, November 24, 1780.
Dr Sir: Some intelligence having been received from New
York unfavourable to the project I had in contemplation I have
s0The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. The letter sent is in the posses-
sion (1935) of Frederick S. Peck, of Great Barrington, R. I.
81 Lieutenant Colonel Humphreys is the authority for the reason for abandoning the
attempt against New York. He states in his Essay on the Life of . . . Major General
Putnam (1788) that the accidental intervention of some British vessels in the Hudson
River prevented the attempt being made.
82 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
83 Of the Third Pennsylvania Regiment. He was retired in January, 1783.
396 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
relinquished it and am to desire the detachment under General
Stark will discontinue its co-operation, and take such measures
as are necessary for its security and for making the forage orig-
inally intended. I am etc.84
To MAJOR WILLIAM CRANE
Head Quarters, November 24, 1780.
Sir: Circumstances having rendered the prosecution of the
enterprise which I had in view inexpedient, you will be pleased
to lay aside the inquiries and preparations which I desired
you to make. I am &c.85
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa,
Friday, November 24, 1780.
Parole . Countersigns .
Watchword .
Brigadier General Paterson
Colonel Greaton
Lieutenant Colonel Basset
Major Knapp
Brigade Major Converse
The March of the Army is postponed 'till further orders.
For the Day Tomorrow
To CAPTAIN JUDAH ALDEN
Head Quarters, November 24, 1780.
Sir: You will send a trusty non Commissioned officer and
four men with the inclosed letter to Capt Humphries,86 who is
'The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
'The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
'Lieut. Col. David Humphreys.
1780] AN IRREGULAR PROMOTION 397
with General Starke and a body of troops at the White plains:
You will send them across the River immediately on receipt
of this and order them to make all diligence. They will return
by King's ferry. I am etc.87
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa,
Saturday, November 25, 1780.
Parole . Countersigns .
Watchword .
For the Day Tomorrow
Brigadier General Wayne
Colonel Nixon
Lieutenant Colonel Littlefield
Major Hamilton
Brigade Major Sewall
*To JOHN SULLIVAN
Hd. Qrs., Passaic Falls, November 25, 1780.
Dr Sir: This letter will be presented to you by the Chevr. De
Chattelleaux a Majr. Genl. in the French Service; A Gentn. of
polite and easy manners, and of literary as well as military
abilities.
I intended in my last (but having spun my letter to an enor-
mous length deferred it) to have observed that as [Congress
had made one or two late promotions from Brigadiers to
Major Generals, apparently on the principle of a state propor-
tion, (which by the way if made a general rule I am persuaded
will be found hurtful) an idea has occurred to me, that pos-
sibly from the same principle on a future occasion, one might
take place which would be particularly injurious; I mean with
87 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
398 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
respect to General Knox, Generals] Parsons and [Clinton have
been superseded by Smallwood. Parson's] is since restored to
his Rank. [Except Clinton Knox now stands first on the list.
If from the consideration I have mentioned or from his being
at the head of the artillery he should be overlooked, and a
younger officer preferred, he will undoubtedly quit the serv-
ice; and you know his usefulness too well not to be convinced
this would be an injury difficult to be repaired. I do not know
all things considered, who could replace him in his depart-
ment. I am sure if a question of this kind should be agitated
when you were present, this intimation would be unnecessary
to induce you to interpose; but lest you should be absent at the
time, I think it would be adviseable to apprise some other
members in whom you have confidence to guard against it.]
for sores occd. by irregular promotions or mistakes, tho they
may afterwards receive a plaister does not always meet a cure
but proves that inattention or want of information was the
cause of the wound.
If the sentiments containd in my letter to Congress of this
date respecting the Inspectorate department are happy enough
to coincide with yours I have no doubt of your giving them a
proper support. To me it appears a matter of importance to
keep the present Inspectors in office, and sure I am, that it is
the true interest and policy of Congress to make these Offices
more the object of desire by the Officers who fill them than
of favor from them; in the one case the duties will be dis-
charged properly. In the other they may be slighted or not
executed at all. The additional pay necesy. to make it adeqe.
to the trouble and confinemt. incident to the Office would be
very trifling, and the future one nothing as they will not bur-
then the half pay list, being Officers in the line and receiving
half pay accordingly and no other. With great esteem etc.88
88 The parts in brackets are in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
1780] INSPECTOR'S DEPARTMENT 399
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, Prackness, November 26, 1780.
Sir: I have the honor to Acknowledge your Excellency's let-
ter of the 16th. and 17th. inst. I am much obliged to you for
the intelligence transmitted from Governor Jefferson.
It is not in my power, at this time, to furnish the return re-
quired of the Officers of the Engineering department; I wait
the arrival of General Du Portail, after which it shall be im-
mediately forwarded.
I have not yet published, to the Army, the New Plan for the
Inspectors department. The delay has given time to know
the sentiments of the Officers concerned. They all think the
extra provision inadequate to the extra trouble; if it is not in-
creased, I believe most of the best of them will leave the Office,
and it will not be possible to find others, who have the neces-
sary qualifications, willing to replace them. As this institution
has been found of singular utility, I am afraid to see it de-
ranged. I therefore take the liberty to mention the matter to
Congress, that they may consider the propriety of an augmen-
tation of the allowance, before an experiment is made of the
establishment.89 The Inspector General being absent, a de-
rangement, at this time, would be more particularly injurious,
and it would be severely felt at the commencement of the next
Campaign, when we shall again have the greatest part of the
Army recruits. When we consider, that to the former exten-
sive duties of the Inspectorship are now added those of the
Mustering department, the officers of which have been, in con-
sequence, abolished, it will appear consonant both with oecon-
omy and equity to enlarge the compensation. Though not
88 The draft adds: "which will certainly not succeed"; but this does not appear in
the letter sent.
400 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
extravagant, it would be desireable to have it so liberal as to be
a motive with good Officers to undertake and continue.
As the subinspector will have a principal part of the drudg-
ery the extra allowance to him requires most to be augmented,
to become an equivalent. 'Tis not necessary there should be
any material difference between his and that of the Inspector.
The Office of Adjutant General and Assistant Inspector Gen-
eral is peculiarly laborious.
In the new Arrangement of the Army, no notice has been
taken of the Corps of Marechaussee, as this Corps is upon a
particular constitution, I imagine it was not intended to com-
prehend it among the corps to be reduced. I shall be happy to
be informed on this subject. Its continuance appears to me
necessary for a variety of useful purposes. As the States are to
be credited for the men in these distinct Corps the keeping it
on foot will not add to the quota of any.
The death of that useful and valuable Officer, Mr. Erskine,
Geographer to the Army, makes it requisite that a successor
should be appointed. I beg leave to recommend Mr. Simeon
De Witt, an assistant of his. His being in the department
gives him a pretension, and his abilities a still better. From the
character Mr. Erskine always gave of him and from what I
have seen of his performances, he seems to be extremely well
qualified. I have the honor etc.90
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 26, 1780.
Dear Sir : I have reed, your favors of the 18th. and 21st. When
the Army gets together and settled in their Winter Quarters,
90 In the writing of Caleb Gibbs. The letter was read in Congress on November 30
and referred to Ezekiel Cornell, John Sullivan, and Artemas Ward.
1780] WINTER QUARTERS 401
I intend to make some general Regulations respecting the
troops receiving Flour or Bread, in the mean time, they may
continue to draw in the manner they have been accustomed
to do.
You will be pleased to order the New York line to the same
position which that of New Hampshire has taken, where they
are to Hut adjoining them. One of the Regiments moving
more to the left, so as to occupy the Ground near Robinsons
Mills, which will serve to cover the other pass of the Mountain.
Hazens Regt. is to move to Fishkill, where it will lay this
Winter and do the duties at that post.
The Massachusetts and Connecticut lines will march the
moment the Weather will permit, and as the Jersey line is to
take post this Winter in the Neighbourhood of Pompton, you
will put them under marching orders, that they may be ready
to come down to Kings ferry upon the day which the Massa-
chusetts troops will arrive there, and take the advantage of
their returning Waggons to transport their Baggage. You shall
be informed on what day that will be. Iam&c.91 [ms.h.s.]
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, Totowa, Sunday, November 26, 1780.
Parole . Countersigns .
Watchword .
For the day Tomorrow
Brigadier General Huntington
Colonel Chambers
Lieutenant Colonel Newall
Major T. L. Moore
Brigade Major Ashley.
The Army will march tomorrow morning. The General
will beat at nine. The Assemble at half past nine and the
91 In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
402 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
march will commence precisely at ten. The Quarter Master
General will furnish the route and order of march.
The Troops are to draw and carry three days bread or flour
as there are not Waggons for the purpose.
The light corps is dissolved. The several companies will re-
turn to their respective regiments.
The General presents his thanks to the Marquis de la Fayette
and to the officers and men under his command for the excel-
lent order and soldierly disposition which have been conspicu-
ous in the corps. He regrets that opportunities did not offer
to avail himself of that Zeal and Ardor which in this Corps and
in the Army at large afforded the strongest assurance of Suc-
cess. Nor can he forbear remarking that this Campaign as well
as the former has exhibited proofs of the Patience and Patriot-
ism of the Troops in cheerfully supporting those wants and
distresses which the peculiar situation of our country has at
different times rendered inevitable.
The Light Companies of the New Hampshire, Rhode Island
and New York regiments sending off their baggage with that
of the Massachusetts and Connecticutt companies will march
themselves by a route which will be given them by the Marquis
de la Fayette.
The Light companies of the Jersey line will take charge of
the boats at Doddes,92 and receive orders at Head Quarters.
Major Parr's corps of rifle men will move with the Pennsyl-
vania division, but will remain a seperate corps and will be
attentive to keeping their Rifles in good order.
AFTER ORDERS
The Van Guard will parade on the Left of the 4th Massa-
chusetts Brigade at nine o'clock tomorrow morning precisely.
The Rear Guard to be formed on the Grand Parade at ten.
92Dobbs Ferry.
1780] DISCHARGE OF TROOPS 403
Brigadier General Huntington with Lieutenant Colonel
Newall to command the former and Colonel Nixon with
Lieutenant Colonel Littlefield the latter.
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
[Head Qrs., November 27, 1780.]
[Sir] : I have the honor to introduce to Your Excellency The
Chevalier De Cha[tellux] Major General in the French army.
I was happy in the opportunity which his journey this way
afforded me of making the acquaintance of a Gentleman as
eminent in the literary world as distinguished for military
merit and for the social qualities. The personal knowledge
I have acquired of him confirms me in the sentiments with
which his reputation had impressed me, and induces me to
recommend him particularly to Your Excellency's esteem.
I have the honor etc.93
INSTRUCTIONS TO
BRIGADIER GENERAL JOHN GLOVER
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 27, 1780.
The state of our Magazines makes it necessary to discharge
every Mouth that can be dispensed with, as early as possible,
and as I think the season is so far advanced, that the greatest
part of the Levies may be immediately dismissed without dan-
ger from the decrease of our Numbers, you will, as soon as you
reach the Ground allotted for your Winter Cantonment, begin
to discharge those of the Massachusetts line, dismissing those
first who are most in want of Cloaths or who are unhealthy.
83 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton. The words in brackets are in
the writing of Washington.
404 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
I should make no scruple of discharging them all at once was
it not that the diminution of our numbers would be thereby
more perceptible than if they went off by degrees.
You will be pleased to attend pointedly to drawing the pub-
lic Arms and Accoutrements from the Men before they are
dismissed. Iam&c.94
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
[Head Qrs, November 27, 1780.]
[Sir] : I have the honor to introduce to Your Excellency's
acquaintance the Vis-count DeNoailles,95 Colonel in the French
army. You will find in him an officer of distinction, a Gentle-
man who possesses those talents and qualities which ornament
birth and fortune, who has besides the advantage of being
allied to the Marquis De la Fayette, and participates in the
same zeal for the service of America. I have the honor etc.96
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
[Hd. Qrs, November 27, 1780.]
Sir: I have the honor to introduce to Your acquaintance [the
Count de Damas],0T a Capt, in the guards of the King of France
and Aide De Camp to the Count De Rochambeau. He is a
84 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. The same letter was sent to
Brigadier Generals Paterson and Huntington, changing the name of the State line
where necessary.
8jLouis Marie vicomte de Noailles. Brother-in-law of Lafayette; mestre de camp
en second du regiment colonel-general hussartls; mestre de camp en second of the
Regiment Soissonnais, 1780.
MThe draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton. The words in brackets are in
the writing of Washington.
07 Charles Francois Louis Joseph Cesar, Comte de Damas. He was captain in the
Regiment du Roi; colonel and aide to Rochambeau; mestre de camp of the Regiment
du Roi in 1782.
1780] MARCH OF TROOPS 405
Gentleman of the first distinction in his country, and to great
personal merit adds warm zeal for the service of America,
which cannot fail to recommend him to your Excellency's par-
ticular esteem and attentions. I have the honor etc.98
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 27, 1780.
Dear Sir: The Connecticut and Massachusetts troops will
march from hence tomorrow and reach Kings Ferry on
Wednesday, at which time the Jersey troops will meet them
there, and make use of their Waggons as far as Pompton,
where they will halt. The Commanding Officer will receive
particular directions there respecting the position which he is
to take. Iam&c." [ms.h.s.]
To MAJOR GENERAL ROBERT HOWE
Head Quarters, November 27, 1780.
Sir: You will perceive by the order of March that you are to
take the directon of the column which marches to Kings ferry.
You will proceed there accordingly, in the manner prescribed
and when you arrive send your baggage up by water, march-
ing the troops by land to their respective cantonments the Con-
necticut line crossing the ferry will proceed up the East side of
the River, the Massachusetts line will proceed up the West side
of the river to West Point. General Heath will designate the
particular distribution.1
08 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton. The words in brackets are in
the writing of Washington.
"In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
aThe draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
406 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
[Hd Qrs, November 27, 1780.]
[Sir] : The Chevalier Du Plessis, who will have the honor
of delivering you this, if not known to yr. Excellency per-
sonally is at least known to you by reputation. After having
distinguished himself as an American officer he is now re-
turned in the French army to give new proofs of his zeal and
attachment to our cause. Titles like these, I am persuaded will
sufficiently recommend him to your Excellency. I have the
honor etc.2
To BRIGADIER GENERAL ANTHONY WAYNE
Head Quarters, Prekaness, November 27, 1780.
Sir: You will march with the division under your command
to the ground in the neighbourhood of Morris Town, which
Colo. Craig has pitched upon for the Winter Cantonment of
the Line, and on which he has been preparing Huts. You will
as soon as possible get both Officers and Men compleatly and
comfortably covered. As soon as the timber necessary for build-
ing is drawn together, you will deliver over to the Deputy Qr.
Mr. General all the Waggons and Horses but such as are abso-
lutely necessary for the transportation of Forage and Fuel; and
all the saddle Horses but such as belong to Officers who are
intitled from their Rank and Office to keep them.
It is recommended to the Officers who are intitled to keep
more Horses than one, to divest themselves of as many as they
can, and the Quarter Master General will be directed to put
them out and support them at public expence. The scantiness
2The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton. The words in brackets are in
the writing of Washington.
1780] DISCIPLINE 407
of Forage requires every exertion to avoid the consumption of
it in and near the Army.
I have directed the Quarter Master General, if it be in his
power, to procure Ox teams for the service of the Winter. They
are not only subsisted much easier than Horses, but the soldiers
and Waggoners cannot abuse them by riding and other uses.
The state of our Magazines of provision requires also every
attention to frugality and ceconomy, for which purpose it will
be necessary to inspect the issues every now and then and com-
pare them with the Returns of the Men. The same may be ob-
served of public stores of every kind, of which our Magazines
are almost intirely exhausted.
I would recommend in the strongest manner the preserva-
tion of the persons and properties of the inhabitants from wan-
ton or unnecessary violation. They have, from their situation,
borne much of the burthen of the War and have never failed to
releive the distresses of the Army, when properly called upon.
You will pay particular attention to drawing the public
Arms and Accoutrements from the Levies at the time of their
dismission.
It is to be hoped that you will receive a number of Recruits
in the course of the Winter. Should you do so, you will put
them in training, that they may, by imbibing the Rudiments
of a Soldier in detail, be fit to join the line in performing their
maneuvres in the Spring; which you will direct to commence
as soon as the season will admit.
You will not suffer the established mode of discipline and
Maneuvre to be in the least degree deviated from, as it is my
wish to see the whole Army take the Field next Campaign,
with more than a common uniformity in the performance of
all its duties, as we shall probably open it in conjunction with
the Army of our Allies, composed of some of the first Corps
408 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
of France; for which reason it will be doubly incumbent upon
the Officers, who remain in service, to perfect themselves in the
duties of their respective stations.
You will on no account suffer a Regiment to be without
a Field Officer or a Company without at least one Commis-
sioned Officer, except some uncommon circumstance should
require it.
The security of your Camp will require light patrolling par-
ties to be advanced towards the sound. The Officers command-
ing them may be directed to cut off as effectually as possible
the pernicious intercourse between New York and New Jer-
sey; the most probable way of doing which is by the total de-
struction of all the Craft of every kind found between Amboy
and second River, which I would recommend not only upon
that account but to prevent the passage of Deserters. The State
I am informed have this session passed severe laws agt. the
practice, and it would therefore be well to make yourself
acquainted with them.
Should you at any time between this and your junction with
the Main Body of the Army have occasion to retire from your
command for a while, you will deliver over these orders to
your successor, who is to do the same should there be a further
change.
The Jersey Brigade will be stationed at Pumpton and at Syd-
mon's in the Clove, and will be subject to your general direction.3
To THE OFFICER COMMANDING THE
NEW JERSEY BRIGADE
Head Quarters, November 27, 1780.
Sir: You will take post with and hut your brigade some-
where in the entrance of the Clove as near as possible for
3 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] PROMOTION COMPLAINT 409
convenience of wood and water to the forks of the roads that go
one to Ringwood the other to Charlottenburgh; from thence
you will detach constantly light flying parties towards Hacken-
sack, the liberty Pole &c. to protect the country and suppress a
traffic with the enemy as much as possible ; but you will not have
stationary guards for this purpose. These are exposed and in-
vite the enemy without answering the end so well as parties
continually moving from one place to another.
I have ordered a party of thirty men from your brigade to
take post at Dobbes ferry. You will have them relieved every
fortnight.4
To COLONEL CHARLES ARMAND-TUFFIN
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 27, 1780.
Dr. Sir: I have received your letter of the 21st. instant. The
opinion I have of your services and merit would make me
chearfully give my influence to the accomplishment of your
wishes, were I not persuaded that it would be attended with
inconveniences. I cannot enter into the motives that have pro-
duced the promotions you speak of. I am sensible that by a
comparison of your situation with that of the French officers
in general, your claim is well founded; but the circumstances
of our service now are very different from what they were at
an earlier period, and many things have been done, which
would not be admitted as a rule of present practice, without
being not a little prejudicial.
I shall be really sorry if you should think it necessary to
withdraw yourself from the service on account of the ill-suc-
cess of your application to Congress. You know the estimation
in which I hold your talents and usefulness. If you continue,
4 The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
410 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
you may assure yourself that I shall do what depends on me to
make your command honorable and agreeable.
In addition to this, as I am persuaded, you will always main-
tain the same place in my esteem which you now possess, when
you determine finally to return home, I shall take the liberty
to recommend to Congress the promotion you desire.
I approve the appointment of Mr Penet5 to a Lieutenancy
in your legion, which must be confirmed by Congress before
it can take place. I am etc.6
To COLONEL CHRISTOPHER GREENE
Head Quarters, November 27, 1780.
Sir: It is probable you will receive from The Count De
Rochambeaus orders to march with your regiment to West
Point. Should this be the case, you will only come on with
such officers as are to remain in service, on the new-arrange-
ment and such men as are engaged for the war, or at least for
a term, that will last through the next campaign. The other
men you may dismiss, unless The Count De Rochambeau
should find any employment, for them where they now are.
In this you will perceive it is presumed that you have already
agreed on the arrangement. I am &c.
Since writing the above I have received your letter of the 18th.7
INSTRUCTIONS TO COLONEL ELISHA SHELDON
Head Quarters, Prackness, November 27, 1780.
You will immediately march to Colchester in the State of
Connecticut with your Regiment and enter into Winter Quar-
c Ignatius Penet. He became a lieutenant in Armand's legion in January, 1781, and
served to the close of the war.
"The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton and Tench Tilghman.
TIn the writing of Alexander Hamilton. From a photostat of the original kindly
furnished by Edward A. Greene, of Providence, R. I.
1780] OUTFITTING DRAGOONS 411
ters. You will deliver over to the Qr. Mr. at Hartford all the
horses that you are of opinion will not be fit for dragoon serv-
ice the next campaign; the remainder you will do every thing
in your power to put into the most perfect order during the
Winter. You will particularly attend to that part of your for-
mer instructions, pointing out the number of horses to be kept
by each officer according to his rank and see that the number
is not on any account exceeded. You will have all your old
accoutrements repaired as soon as the men are fixed in quarters.
As I presume the State of Connecticut will complete your
regiment to the establishment of the 3d and 21st of October
(which you have seen published in general orders of the 1st
instant) I would recommend it to you to wait upon the Gover-
nor yourself, with an exact state of the Regiment, as to men
and horses, and the deficiencies of both, noting such men, if
there are any whose times of service expire in the course of
the Winter, that in making provision for completing the corps
these may not be counted upon. I know not the mode that will
be adopted to procure the men and horses; you will therefore
govern yourself according to the plan you may concert with
the Governor. Neither do I know whether the State or Conti-
nent are to provide your accoutrements. You will acquaint
yourself with that circumstance and apply in time to one or
the other for those necessary for a full corps.8
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL UDNY HAY
Head Quarters, November 27, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received your favs. of the 12th. and 23rd.
instants. I recommended Mr. Hales9 case to the particular atten-
tion of the Commy. General who is at Philada. and who I hope
8The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
"Daniel Hale, New York state agent.
412 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
will have it in his power to make him compensation in Rum if
not in Money.
I have written to the Governor and have pointed out to him
fully our distressed situation and the consequences which must
ensue if some such expedient as you have mentioned is not
adopted. There is not a Barrel of Flour in Magazine in Penn-
sylvania or Jersey, and if there were, it is almost too late to
transport it from Delaware to the North River. I shall prob-
ably be at New Windsor myself, by the time I receive the
Governor's answer, and if he approves, the Men you require
shall be furnished.10
If any advantages result from putting up the Beef in the
manner you propose11 1 shall have no objection to your doing
it. Iam&c.12
To THE OFFICER COMMANDING
THE NEW JERSEY LIGHT INFANTRY COMPANIES
Head Quarters, November 27, 1780.
Sir: You are with your party to take charge of the Boats at
Doddes and proceed with them to Pompton where you will
wait 'till your brigade arrives in that neighbourhood and then
join it. You will take more particular orders from the Qr. Mr
General.
You will detach a party of thirty men, properly officered to
Dobbes ferry to relieve the party stationed there at the Block
House. The officer will conform to the orders which he will
find there in possession of the present Commanding Officer.13
10To impress wheat and flour by warrant of the Governor.
II "I proposed, both for the sake of saving Salt, and for the better preservation of
the Beef, to take out all the sticking Pieces, and put up, in Barrels, by themselves." —
Hay to Washington, Nov. 23, 1780. Hay's letter is in the Washington Papers.
12The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
x3The draft is in the writing of Alexander Hamilton.
1780] LACK OF BREAD 413
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
Head Quarters, Passaic Falls, November 27, 1780.
Dear Sir: I take the liberty of inclosing your Excellency an
extract of a Letter which I have just received from Colo. Hay14
and of assuring you at the same time that the prospects of the
Army, especially of that part which is to winter in the High-
lands, were never so alarming in respect to the want of Bread
as at this time. We carry with us from this Ground, tomorrow,
every pound which the Commy. General is possessed of, and
I cannot learn from him that he has a single Barrel in Maga-
zine in Pennsylvania or Jersey. I shall leave the Pennsylvania
and Jersey troops in Jersey to depend upon precarious supplies
from that State, and what may, in the course of the Winter, be
brought from Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland.
The mode proposed by Colo. Hay is, I confess, disagreeable,
and what ought not to be practised but in extremity. We seem
to have arrived at that point, and if Your Excellency views the
thing in the same light that I do, I cannot but hope that you
will give a sanction to the measure upon the footing which
Colo. Hay has placed it, or upon some other which will as effec-
tually answer the end. Did the season admit of waiting till we
saw whether a supply of Flour could not be possibly obtained
from the Southward, I should not be so solicitous about the
matter, but when it is considered that the first spell of bad
Weather may render both the Rivers and Mountains impassa-
ble, I think not a moment ought to be lost in adopting and car-
rying into execution such measures as seem most likely to
afford support to the Army in their intended Cantonments.
The difficulty which we had to keep them together last Winter,
"Col. Udny Hay's letter of Nov. 23, 1780, is in the Washington Papers.
414 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
makes me dread a repetition of the same trial, this, if to the
want of Cloathing and every comfort, that of provision is
added. I have the honor etc.15
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, November 27, 1780.
Sir: I am much obliged to your Excellency for the interesting
particulars you do me the honour to communicate in your let-
ters of the 18th. and 20th. We may now hope every thing for
the safety of your valuable envoy and the important dispatches
with which he is charged.16
Since the Confirmation of Ferguson's defeat and the retreat
of Cornwallis to Camden, we have nothing new from the
South, except an intercepted letter of Leslie's to Cornwallis,
informing of the time he had been at Portsmouth [(in Vir-
ginia) ] and that he waited his orders.
The affairs of the enemy to the South seem at present to de-
cline. They will probably continue to do so unless Clinton
sends a reinforcement from New York. This I fear he will
shortly do, as near one half of our Army will leave us in a little
time. From the temper now prevailing in the states, I hope we
shall not experience this inconvenience again.
I have kept the army thus long in the field to shorten the
transportation of the supplies from Pensylvania and avoid con-
suming those in New York on which we must materially
depend through the Winter, and at the same time in some
measure restrain General Clinton from making detachments.
The advanced season obliges us to retire and to morrow we
march for winter quarters. The principal part of the army will
uThe draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
18 Vicomte de Rochambeau arrived at Bilboa, Spain, on Sept. 12, 1780.
1780] EXPRESS CHAIN WITHDRAWN 415
be at West Point and its dependencies. A corps will be can-
tonned in the Jerseys at Morris Town Pompton &c. for the pro-
tection of the country and communication. My own Quarters
will be at New Windsor. If circumstances should permit you
to honor me with your company there, in the course of the
Winter it will make me particularly happy.
As the two Rhode Island Regiments are to be incorporated
into one by a new arrangement of the army, I would wish to
unite them at West Point for the purpose of the incorporation.
If their services should be of no use to you, I shall be obliged to
you to give your orders to Colonel Greene to march to West
Point.
As it is improbable any operations can now take place which
will often require sudden communications between the two
armies, I have ordered the dragoons hitherto stationed to form
the chain of expresses, to be withdrawn. The post will serve for
common occasions and special expresses may be employed on
any emergencies.
I have been very happy for these three days past in the
company of The Chevalieur De Chatlies17 and family. The
Viscount De Noailles, the Count D'Amat18 and our old ac-
quaintance Du Plessis. I find in these Gentlemen every thing
that can command my esteem. I am etc.19
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, November 27, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed, your favr. of the 22d. inclosing a letter
from Colo. Malcom. If there should be such a surplus of Cattle
17 Chevalier de Chastellux.
18 Comte Damas.
"The draft is in die writing of Alexander Hamilton.
416 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
as to enable you to spare any for Fort schuyler, it will be very
agreeable to me, as my first Wish is to have that post supplied
and secured. I am, etc.20 [ms.h.s.]
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, November 27, 1780.
Dr. Sir : I inclose you a letter to Col Sheldon ordering him
into Winter Quarters. You will be pleased to forward it and
make any arrangements that may be necessary in consequence
of his removal. I am etc.
P. S. The Rhode Island Regiment may go to the position
by Robinson's Mills instead of a detachmt. from New Hamp-
shire &ca.21 [ MS. h. s. ]
*To MAJOR BENJAMIN TALLMADGE
Morristown, November 28, 1780.
Dr Sir: Both your letters of the 25th. came to my hands this
day. I received with much pleasure the report of your success-
ful enterprize upon Fort St. George and the Vessel with Stores,
in the Harbour, and was particularly well pleased with the de-
struction of the Hay which must, I should conceive, be severely
felt by the Enemy at this time.
I beg of you to accept my thanks for your judicious planning
and Spirited execution of this business and that you will offer
them to the Officers and Men who shared the honors of the
Enterprize with you. The gallant behaviour of Mr. Muirson22
gives him a fair claim to an appointment in the 2d. Regimt. of
Dragoons, or any other of the State to which he belongs where
"In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
'In the writing of Alexander Hamilton; the P. S. is in that of Washington.
2Richard(?) Muirson, American secret agent.
17801
DISCHARGE OF TROOPS 417
there is a vacancy and I have no doubt of his meeting with it
accordingly, if you will make known his merit with these
Sentmts. in his favor.
You have my free consent to reward your gallant party with
the little booty they were able to bring from the Enemy's
Works. With much esteem etc.
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Morris Town, November 28, 1780.
Dear Sir: I gave directions to Generals Glover, Patterson and
Huntington to discharge the Levies of Connecticut and Massa-
chusetts, by degrees, upon their arrival at their places of can-
tonment, beginning with those first who were worst clad and
otherwise unfit for service, as this would diminish our num-
bers insensibly, and not give the enemy an opportunity of
knowing the truth before the time which they naturally count
upon. You will be pleased to direct the same to be done with
those of New Hampshire, and consult with Genl. Knox upon
the propriety of dismissing those attached to the Artillery also,
for I find we shall have occasion to divest ourselves of every
mouth that we can possibly do without, and have difficulty
enough to subsist afterwards.
To give more perfect security to the Northern and Western
Frontier and to keep the York line as much as possible to-
gether, that they may have the better opportunity of compleat-
ing their new arrangement, I have determined to send the
remainder of the York Brigade to Albany, to be stationed there
and at Schenectady and elsewhere as Genl. Clinton shall direct.
You will therefore put them in Motion, by water, if the
Weather will permit, and give Genl. Clinton notice of their
coming, that he may endeavour to make preparation and
418 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
provision for them. You will let the commanding Officers know
my motives, and at the same time inform them that their being
brought down from Albany, a little time ago, was owing to
the sudden contradiction of the false alarm, which did not give
me time to send orders for their stay, as I then intended. The
Regimental Cloathiers of each had best remain below, to re-
ceive their respective proportions, which I will have delivered
upon my arrival at New Windsor. I expect that will be in three
or four days, or perhaps a little longer, as I have some arrange-
ments to make here.
You will divest yourself as speedily as possible of the super-
fluous Horses of the Connecticut and Massachusetts lines, as I
imagine you have long since done of those of the others.
Iam&c.23 [ms.h.s.]
#To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Morris Town, November 28, 1780.
Sir: I arrived at this place to day, having yesterday broke up
the Camp near the Passaic Falls and detached the Troops to
their different places of Cantonment. I shall repair to New
Windsor where I purpose to establish my Winter Quarters,
after having made some necessary regulations here, and visited
the Hospitals.
The following will be the general position of the Army dur-
ing the Winter. The Pensylvania line about four Miles from
hence in part of the Huts which were occupied by the Troops
last Winter. The Jersey line at Pompton with a detachment
from them to secure the entrance of the Clove near Suffrans
(the design of these is not only to cover the Country and our
communication with the Delaware, but as much as possible to
23In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] WINTER QUARTERS 419
ease us in the article of transportation). The Connecticut, New
Hampshire and Rhode Island lines in the Highlands, upon the
East side of Hudsons River. The Massachusetts line at West
point, Moylans Regiment of Horse at Lancaster in Pensylvania
and Sheldons at Colchester in Connecticut.
One Regiment of New York is in Garrison at Fort Schuyler
and another is at Saratoga; but to give more effectual security
to the Northern and Western Frontiers, which are both much
exposed and harrassed I propose, if Provision can be had, which
is exceedingly doubtful, to send the remainder of the line to
Albany and Schenectady, where it will be ready to act as occa-
sion may require, and the Officers have it more in their power
to arrange themselves agreeably to the New Establishment.
I have lately had a very pressing application from Colo.
Scammell for liberty to resign the Office of Adjutant General,
and resume the Command of his Regiment. Finding him de-
termined upon the measure, I thought it my duty to cast about
for a proper person to succeed him, in so important an Office,
before I mentioned his request. The Gentleman I would rec-
ommend, is Brigadier General Hand, who I have Sounded
upon the occasion, and who I find will accept the appointment,
should Congress think proper to confer it upon him. His
Rank, independent of his other qualities, is a circumstance of
consequence, besides giving weight and dignity to the Office,
it will take off any uneasiness which might have arisen, had
an Officer, younger than any of the present Inspectors, been
appointed, because by the Regulations, the Adjutt. General is
Assistt. Inspector General, and of course commands the others
in that Department. I shall very reluctantly part with Colo.
Scammell, as he has constantly performed his duty to my entire
approbation and to the satisfaction of the Army, but his rea-
sons (which I should have tranmitted at length had I not sent
420 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
up his letter among my papers to New Windsor) were such as
I could not oppose, without requiring him to make greater sac-
rifices than he assured me his fortune would afford.
Having received information through Major Talmadge (of
the 2d Regiment of Dragoons) that the enemy had collected a
valuable Magazine of Forage at Coram upon Long Island, the
destruction of which he, at the same time, offered to attempt,
with my permission (which he obtained) I do myself the
honor to inclose a copy of his report, by which Congress will
perceive how very handsomely he acquitted himself in the ex-
ecution of his whole plan. There can be no stronger proof of
the gallant behaviour and good conduct of the Major and his
Officers, and of the bravery and fidelity of his Men, than the
recital of the circumstances attending the affair throughout its
progress. With very great respect I have the honor etc.24
GENERAL ORDERS
Morristown, Wednesday, November 29, 1780.
Parole . Countersigns .
The General has the pleasure to inform the Army that Ma-
jor Tallmadge with a party of sixty dismounted dragoons of
the 2d. regiment surprized Fort St. George on Long Island
and captured a Colonel, Captain, Lieutenant, Surgeon and
Fifty men in it. That he destroyed the works, burnt a Vessel
laden with Stores in the harbour, and the King's Magazine of
Forage at Coram containing upwards of three hundred tons
of Hay and returned without the loss of a man, having only
one wounded. Of the Enemy seven were left dead and mor-
tally wounded at the Fort.
24 The letter was read in Congress on December 4 and referred to John Sullivan,
Ezekiel Cornell, and John Mathews.
1780] OPPOSITION TO THE ENEMY 421
*To THE OFFICER COMMANDING THE
NEW JERSEY BRIGADE
Morris-town, November 29, 1780.
Sir: The Jersey Brigade is placed under the general directn.
of the Officer Commanding in this State and you are to obey
his orders but you are, nevertheless, to attend to the instruc-
tions you have already received from me and [those which]25
follow; copies of which you are to furnish the Commanding
Officer [in the State]26 with, that he may give none which may
clash with them.
You are to leave a detachment of about one hundred Men
properly Officered, and under the Command of a Field Offi-
cer, near SufTrans; at or near the place where the old Barracks
stood; where, or on the Height South of the bridge, it may be
well to build a block House, proof against Musketry, and cal-
culated for Barracks for the above number of Men, or a smaller
number, say 60.
You are, in case you should receive such information as you
can rely on of the enemy's moving up the North River in
force to march immediately with the Troops under your Com-
mand to West point, giving the Officer Commanding there
and in the Jerseys notice thereof.
You are, as far as it is in your power with prudence, to oppose
any incursions of the Enemy in die quarter where you lay, par-
ticularly in that district of Country between the Passaic and
North Rivers. And you are to afford when it is required, or
when in your judgment it is necessary, escorts to the public
property passing to and from the Army.
Washington wrote "such as", but Tilghman changed this as above.
26The words in brackets are in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
422 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
You are not under any pretence whatever without leave
from me to suffer a Regiment to be without a field Officer or a
Company without one Commissioned Officer at least.
Every horse, public and private, that can possibly be dis-
pensed with is to be sent from Camp as soon as you get to your
Ground; the Officers who are intitled27 to keep horses at public
expence [in Camp]28 will be allowed for keeping them at a
distance.
It is expected that the strictest discipline will be maintained
by the Troops under your command and no injury offered to
the persons or property of the Inhabitants.
To REVEREND H. ADDISON
Morris Town, November 29, 1780.
Sir: Being accidentally at this place, I met your letter of the
17th : here, this day.
Should you obtain the permission which you have requested
of the Governor of Maryland, that will be sufficient to convey
you safely through the posts of the American Army; as the
Officers commanding at them have directions to pay obedience,
at all times, to the Acts of the Executive powers of any of the
States. I am etc.29
To BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES CLINTON
Morris Town, November 29, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received several of your favors lately, but
having sent them up to New Windsor among my papers, I can-
not answer them particularly. From the general tenor of them,
"Washington wrote "allowed", but Tilghman changed this as above.
28 The words in brackets are in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
29 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] REPAIR OF ARMS 423
I have thought it best to order the remainder of your line up
to Albany to be stationed there, at Schenectady, and at such
intermediate posts between that and Fort Schuyler as may
secure the communication. But it is my wish to have the
troops as little scattered as circumstances will possibly admit;
more particularly just now, because there is a necessity for
the Officers being together to settle the new arrangement of the
Army. Iam&c.80
To DOCTOR LEWIS FORD DUNHAM31
Head Quarters, New Windsor,32 November 29, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, your favr. of the 20th. If you and the other
Surgeons of the line accommodate the matter of retiring among
yourselves, the mode pointed out by the Regulations must be
adopted; that is, the youngest must go out, and the two others
remain. But I think you and the other Gentleman who wishes
to retire had best fall upon the method which several Officers
in the line, under similar circumstances, have taken: decide the
matter by Lot. Iam&c.33
To BRIGADIER GENERAL HENRY KNOX
Morris Town, November 30, 1780.
Dear Sir: The Bearer Mr. Buel,34 who is recommended to me
by Governor Trumbull, will undertake to stock a number of
the Gun Barrels at Springfield, and repair the old Arms. He
30 In the writing of Tench Tilghman. From a photostat of the original kindly
furnished by Dr. A. S. W. Rosenbach, of New York City.
31 Surgeon in the Third New Jersey Regiment. He resigned in January, 1781.
82 Should be Morristown, as Washington did not reach New Windsor until the
evening of December 6.
33 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
84 Benjamin Buell. He was a gunsmith of Hebron, Conn.
424 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
has a set of Workmen of his own and will go on with the Busi-
ness upon Credit, which is a very material consideration. But
to prevent the matter being made a job, I think it will be best
for you to give orders to the Officer superintending the Elabo-
ratory to have the Barrels sufficiently proved before they are
delivered to Mr. Buel, as I suspect that they are most of them
of the trash kind which Mr. Lee35 charges Mr. Deanes30 Agent
with purchasing. I am &c.37
*To BRIGADIER GENERAL HENRY KNOX
[November, 1780]
Sir: Having already communicated to you my intention to
attempt to Surprize the Enemys Posts at the North end of York
Island, and prepared you for the part I expect you to take in
the conducting of it, I have now to desire
That you will on next (under the most specious pre-
tence that can be devise [d] to conceal the real object) detach as
many Officers and Men as with the aid of the Infantry they
are to accompany, will be sufficient to manage the Artillery in
the Enemys Works, in case they become Master of them.
That you will put up in the way least liable to suspicion,
a dozen Rockets, three dark Lanthorns and about 2000 flat
headed Nails for Mufling oars with Green hides; they may be
given to the Party of Artillery, or thrown in the way of Genl
Hand, as shall be thought best and most likely to deceive
That boards Inch and half thick, and the greatest
length that can be obtained, with Nails of a proper size
to fasten the cross, or foot pieces to them, be also provided, and
delivered as above.
Arthur Lee.
'Silas Deane.
'The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] ATTACK ON NEW YORK 425
That you will, under the best colourable pretence, have Scows
and Boats in readiness at the Point to throw the Troops across
the River as quick as possible in the Evening of the
That you will, if it is not unusual, and is not likely to create
suspicion, contrive that the Connecticut Troops, and indeed
Artillery also, as a sufficient number of the latter will be re-
quired for Field pieces including that which is at present
with the light Infantry, be supplied, or have on hand that day,
at least two days provisions.
That in the fore part of the same day, you communicate to
Genl. Huntington and Colo. Smith under the most solemn
injunctions of secresy (till the progress of the movements of
the Corps under their respective commands will no longer
conceal the real object) what the design of it is, that, at the
sametime they afford their aid to carry it into execution, they
may lend their assistance to mask the design, as likely means
as any that occurs to me at present to effect this, is, to hold out
the idea that information is received of a design in the enemy
to take advantage of the Accident at Verplanks point to pos-
sess themselves of that Post, and that these, being the nearest
Troops are hurried to its support; while their places again will
be supplied from the Cantonment of New Windsor. This de-
ception may continue, and the longer it can be imposed the
better, till the Troops pass Verplanks point.
That pieces of Field Artillery, in the Night of that
day, be sent to Verplanks point, and Horses be Impressed for
them so as to be at that place by day break; but no step is to
be taken in this matter that can alarm or give any cause to the
Inhabits, to suspect the design till after Midnight; as nothing
will give greater jealousy than an Impress of Horses for the
Field Artillery to the disaffected who would not require more
426 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
[Nov.
than 4 hours to convey the Intelligence from the Neighbour-
hood of Crompond, Peeks-kill &ca. to Kings bridge.
ORDERS FOR THE LIGHT INFANTRY
The day the Detachment moves from New Windsor the
Officer Commanding it (the Light Infantry I mean) is to send
two Companies to Bedford where the Officer Commanding
those Companies is to receive further Orders; these orders are
to go to him through Major Talmadge. the Companies sent
there may be those which happen at the time to be on Croton.
The day preceeding the Attack At Kingsbridge and towards
Sundown the light Infantry is to receive a Sudden and per-
emptory order to March instantly to Verplanks point to rein-
force the Post with every Man that is able; the others with the
Women and Baggage may remain, or move to West point;
neither Officers nor Men are to be incumbered.
At Verplanks point, or at the Fork of the Road leading to
it they are to have orders to continue their march towards
Kingsbridge with as much dispatch as possible without injury
to the Troops. If Small parties, stragglers, or men on passes
should be out Officers must be left to follow with them.
GENL. HAZEN
To be directed a day or two before hand to have his Men,
their Arms, Ammunition and Cloathing in readiness to be
Inspected at the yellow House at 12 Oclock, the day preceed-
ing the Night of the Enterprise. It may be hinted to him that
as I am called upon to give an opinion respecting the pro-
priety of continuing or reducing his Crops that I will have it
examined by a good judge if I cannot be there myself before
I determine.
About 4 Oclock he may have a peremptory order to March
every Man that is fit for duty to Dobbs Ferry where he will
receive further orders.
1780] SIGNALS IN THE ATTACK 427
THE RELIEF FOR HAZEN'S REGT.
Is to march the same day that the operating detachmt. goes
from the Encampment, and to Quarter in the Houses at and
nearest to Smiths Tavern. The next day they are to reach the
Block House, where he may be told Hazens Regiment will
join him the day following, and that that Officer will deliver
over his Instructions to him.
Towards the Evening of that (third) day and wch. is the
Evening preceeding the Night of Attack he must have Orders
to proceed immediately to Dobbs's Ferry where he will receive
further orders.
COLO. SMITH
Is to be informed of the Orders given to Hazen, and the
Regiment which marches under the idea of a relief to him.
He is to detain all the Boats which may be at the Post at
Dobbs Ferry. To discover without any appearance of design,
what boats are at the Slote and some time after dark sieze and
bring them to the Post for the purpose of transporting with
as much expedition as possible the above Regiments to the
East Side.
He is to be informed of the signals, denominative of the dif-
ferent Works that are carried, and at o'clock that Night
and not before, nor is a moments previous Notice to be given
of it, he is to send one or more Officer [s] with a party of Men
over the River, who are to watch for the Rockets and listen for
the Guns. None but the Officers should be apprized of these
Signals altho' the Sentries are to look and listen for them for
fear of desertion. They will stop all Passengers.
COLO. SHELDON
Is to have orders to deliver to Majr. Talmadge his two Infan-
try Companies. The Dragoons mentioned by Talmadge and
428 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
to give them every aid he may require to facilitate his Enter-
prize on Long Island.
With the rest of his Legion, the State Troops of New York,
and those of Connecticut he is to commence his March for
Kings bridge after Dark. He is to mask this movement so as
that no Officer or Soldier under his Command shall know
what his object is further than it unfolds itself as he moves on.
CONTRACTORS
To be Instructed with respect to the Articles of Provision
and Rum to be forwarded as quick as possible.38
*PLAN FOR ATTACK ON NEW YORK
[November, 1780.]
1st. The morning of the 5th. of December may be fixed
upon for the Surprise. The Moon changes at 4 Oclock the
preceeding Evening, when the Nights will be dark and per-
haps Rainy, which will favor the attempt. It will be high
Water at the Post at 11 Oclock at Night.
2d. The first Jersey and second York Regiments to be named
as the relief for the Light Infantry on the Lines; but whether
these or the light Infantry had best be the operating Troops
merits consideration as there are reasons in favor of each.
3d. Some other Regiment, a strong one, should March undr.
the pretext of relieving Hazens Regiment and Pompton and
the Clove.
4th. Hazens Regiment to March to Suflrans on the 3d. of
Decemr. Halt, and meet the relieving Regiment there the
4th. And orders in the Afternoon to proceed immediately
to Dobbs's ferry; whether it will be necessary to cover this
3sFrom a photostat of the original now in unknown hands.
1780]
MOVEMENT OF TROOPS 429
movement under an idea of danger to the Post, or assign no
reason for it may be considered hereafter.
5th. Upon the Signal which is to announce success, they
are instantly to cross the River, and march by Companies or
Battns. according to Circumstances, to re-inf orce the successful
Troops.
6th. If the Enemy should be in possession of the passes to
the Island, [mutilated] hill, Kings bridge and [mutilated] of
them should be forced and the Communication with the Coun-
try opened, for the purpose of receiving succours, or securing
a retreat, in case of need.
7th. The Jersey and York Regiments will proceed by Water
from the Boat Landing (or mouth of Murderers Ck) on the
2d. (of Deer.) They will that day, reach the Mouth of Peeks-
kill, upper side, where the light Infantry, if they are to be the
operating Troops, are to meet them, and to embark at Dusk;
and to proceed, (first making a shew of coming up the River,
till they have gained the West Shore,) by the Posts at Kings
Ferry, eluding if possible the Sentries there. If on the other
hand, the two Regiments above mentioned are prefered they
may halt on the Island below Fort Montgomery till Night,
and then slip down. In either case, they are to keep the middle
of the River till they pass the Houses at the Dock below Nov-
els/39 and then hug the Jersey shore close till they get below the
Landing a little above the Beacon at the Verdrietgue hook,40
which is nearly opposite to Tellers point; there they are to
conceal themselves without Fire^or smoke all the succeeding
day; to wit the 3d. The Boats are to be so concealed by Bushes,
as that they may not be discovered.
8th. Here the Corps should be perfectly organized, the Com-
mands properly assigned, and each officer have an exact Roll of
33Noel's(?).
40 Verdrieteges Hook.
430 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Nov.
Men under his care, which Roll he is to examine every hour
tc see that they are all present. A close Chain of Sentries is to
be formed, and no man under any pretense whatever to go
beyond them. After dark, they are again to proceed silently
in the middle of the River till they pass Dobbs's ferry and the
Sentries at that place and then keep close under the Jersey
Shore till they come to the Vineyd. where they are to lye con-
cealed all day (the 4th.) using the same precautions as before
9th. Here, a little before Night, the whole plan may be dis-
closed to the Officers; to such at least as ought to be acquainted
with it; the part of each assigned, and over and over again im-
pressed; in a word they should (those who are principles in
the execution) have their orders in writing that there may be
no misconception of them. They should be exhorted to cool-
ness, firmness, intripidity and Silence; they should be told
that attempts to surprize scarcely ever fail of success but from
misconception of orders, blunders in the execution, or want
of courage, that the enterprise they are going upon will be
most brilliant and important, or disgraceful and ruinous, from
the manner of its execution.
10th. In the afternoon of the 4th., or rather at dusk, the
Regiments, or light Infantry at Peekskill (as the case may be)
and those at the Boston Hutts, are to commence their March
along the River Road to Kingsbridge. Sheldons Legion and
Camfields [sic] Corps are to do the same; the Connecticut
Regts. at West point are to begin to cross, and the Troops from
the Cantonment of New Windsor put in motion by Land and
Water to give the most instantaneous suppt. in case of success.
nth. As it will take the Troops who are designated for the
enterprise two days and 3 Nights to get from Peekskill to the
object of attack, during which time, in spite of every pre-
caution, their passage down the River will be known, it is a
1780] SURPRISE OF KINGSBRIDGE 431
question worthy of consideration whether waylaying the Roads
during that space, to intercept all kind of communication and
intelligence is most likely to prevent, or create suspicion of
some movements going forward. If the enemys spies of which
we may presume they are not without in our Army, or the dis-
affected people get notice of a body of Men going down in a
concealed manner, the presumption is that they will give no-
tice of it, though they may be ignorant of the real design. If to
avoid this we attempt to shut the avenues, the time which par-
ties must be employed in this business, and the very near posi-
tion take[n] to do it effectually, are alone sufficient to give an
alarm, admitting (which is hardly to be expected) that every
possible vigilence is used, and no desertion takes place.
THE PLAN FOR SURPRISING THE POSTS
AT KINGS-BRIDGE
12th. As the good or ill success of Surprises depends less
upon numbers than on the composition of Troops; and upon
a well concerted plan; and the secrecy, decision and spirit of
its execution. I prefer a small number to a large one, because
it is more manageable in the night and less liable to confusion.
In either case however every Actor slid, know precisely the
part he is to perform; more especially in combined attacks,
where a failure in point of time may disconcert and ruin the
whole.
13th. As it is more than probable that the enemy have guards
at all the good Landing places in the vicinity of their Works,
I should think for that and other reasons it would be best to
(keep on die West side of the River and) pass them all; and
go to some obscure place opposite to the White House and land
under the high banks opposite to it
14th. There are three capitol Works which should be at-
tacked; indeed a fourth that is essential; the principal one is
432 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON . TNov.
Laurel hill, or Fort George, the next is Fort Knyphausen
(formerly Fort Washington), the third Fort Tryon (north of
Fort Knyphausen on the same height), and the 4th. either Fort
Charles, No. 8, or the Redoubt on Cox's hill in order that a
communication may be opened with the Country to admit
succour or to secure a Retreat in case of need
15th. The Troops should be form'd for, and the Officers in-
structed in these several Attacks the afternoon preceeding the
Morning intended for the Surprise. As you cannot count upon
more than 6 or 700 Men, either in the Regiments before named,
or light Infantry, I think the following disposition, or as near
it as companies will bring them the best that can be made, viz,
200 for Fort George, 150 for Fort Knyphausen, and 50 for Fort
Tryon. with a proportion of Artillery Men to each. The re-
mainder to compose a reserve for the purpose of supporting,
bringing off, or making prisoners of the Runaways as the case
may be.
16th. The Troops being thrown into command as above the
afternoon before will embark, proceed, and Land in the fol-
lowing ordr. The Command for Fort George First; That for
Fort Knyphausen Second; Fort Tryon third, and the reserve
last. They should be preceeded by a Van guard taken from
the three attacking parties, and composed of faithful Men, and
intripid Soldiers under very intelligent Officers. These are to
Land first, and a post of chain of Sentinals around the place
of debarkation who shall have positive orders to suffer no Man
under any pretence whatever to pass them, till the column
moves; they will then advance a little way a head of it, but in
full view; a small distance advanced of these again, two or
three shrewd bold Men should March to decoy or sieze any
person, or persons they meet with and send them back with in-
telligence and for Guides
1780] ORDERS FOR ATTACK 433
17th. The whole will March in one column to the place of
seperation, but to be distinctly told off for the respective At-
tacks; so that the column may divide without noize, confusion
or delay at the place appointed. Officers are to be particularly
attentive that no Man quits his Rank, with a view either to
skulk or desert
1 8th. When the Column divides the Van guard will divide
also and precede the detachments they respectively belong to;
each performing what the whole did before. The front, or
right column intended for the attack of Fort George shou'd
have time given it, first because the distance it will have to go
is greater than to Fort Knyphausen to and by which both the
others must go as the one for Fort Tryon must pass Fort Knyp-
hausen, and secondly, because being of the greatest importance
the others are secondary objects and must yield to it.
19th. The Plan or sketch which accompanies this with the
explanations will give a more perfect idea of the place of de-
barkation, the Road, the Houses, the March of the Column,
the seperation of it, first by the detachment that goes to Fort
George, and afterwards of the other two, for the Forts Knyp-
hausen and Tryon.
20th. If these attacks should be successful, not a moment
should be lost in endeavouring (which may be attempted by
stratagem under the idea of relief) to sieze one or more of the
upper posts or No. 8 that the Communication may be opened
for the succours which are ordered.
2 1 st. The Artillery Men should be provided with Rockets,
one of which and no more, should be fired from every work
that is possessed. Besides these, after the conflict is over and
order restored, Cannon as a further signal should be fired dis-
tinctly and at regular Intervals to announce what Works are
captured. Eight shall be the signal for possession of Fort
George, four for Fort Knyphausen, two for Fort Tryon, and
434 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
one [mutilated] of the others. These at an interval of ten min-
utes between each, that is between the Eight, the four &ca.
And if all the Works are carried, or the three principal ones
and either of the smaller ones; as a further signal of confirma-
tion, half an hour after thirteen Cannon are to fired. And
American colours or some other devise fixed on the Parapets
as information to the Troops who are coming as a support that
they may not precipitate themselves into danger unnecessarily.
22d. Fort George or Laurel hill, is of great importance,
because this with number Eight, secures a communication be-
tween the Island and the Country, without it, it would be dan-
gerous to attempt holding the others if we should possess them,
consequently they should be damaged as much as possible and
evacuated; bringing of the Garrison if captured.
Scaling Ladders may be absolutely necessary, but how they
are to be provided without creating suspicious is not easy to
devise.
Dark Lanthorns will be wanted.
Hatchets or Axes will also be required.
Muffled Oars, or materials for muffling them.
Papers for Cockades to distinguish our own Troops, from
those of the Enemy must be provided.
Provision and Spirits to be taken care of.
Surgeons of the Corps to attend them.
Field Artillery, and spare Ammunition to go down with the
covering Troops
Watch Word.
To BRIGADIER GENERAL ANTHONY WAYNE
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 7, 1780.
Sir: I have the pleasure of introducing to you the Count de
Custine a Brigadier, and the Marquis de Laval a Colonel in the
1780] INSTRUCTIONS MISCARRIED 435
French Army. They are Gentlemen of the first distinction,
which, added to their Rank, will, I am certain, ensure them
every mark of attention from you.
Should any Officer of the line, properly qualified to accom-
pany them, have occasion to go to Philadelphia, I should be
glad that you would make an offer of his services upon that
occasion. [I have assured them this will be the case.] I am etc.41
[H.S.P.]
To COLONEL ISRAEL SHREVE
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 7, 1780.
Sir: I returned to this place last Evening42 where I found
your letter of the 4th: I cannot conceive how my Instructions
of the 27th. of Novemr. could have miscarried. Inclosed you
have a Copy of them, which you will follow. I am sorry for the
accident which happened to my first orders as you have thereby
lost a spell of very fine Weather for hutting. I am &c.43
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 7, 1780.
Sir: I have the honour of introducing to your Excellency the
Count de Custine44 a Brigadier General in the Army of France,
and who is warmly recommended to me by the Count de
Rochambeau. This Gentleman's Rank, exclusive of the ami-
able and valuable qualities which he is said to possess, intitles
"In the writing of Tench Tilghman. The sentence in brackets is in the writing of
Washington.
"Washington's headquarters at New Windsor, which he reached, as stated above,
on the evening of December 6, were, as formerly, in Col. Thomas Ellison's house.
His route to New Windsor, after reaching Morristown, N. J., was by way of Fleming-
town, Halketstown, New Germantown, and Sussex Court House, as shown by his
accounts of expenses.
43 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
"Adam Philippe, Comte de Custine Sarreck. He was brigadier general of cavalry
and colonel, Regiment Saintonge, French Army in America.
436 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
him to that polite attention which I am confident he will
receive from your Excellency. I have the honor etc.45
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 7, 1780.
Sir: I have the honor to introduce to your Excellency the
Marquis de Laval46 a Colonel in the French Army. This Gen-
tleman is of the Family of Montmorenci, the most illustrious
in France, which alone would intitle him to every mark of re-
spect, did not his personal good qualities and the Zeal with
which he has sought the American service give him a further
claim to our attentions. I am convinced Your Excellency will
receive him in a manner suited to his merit and his Birth.
I have the honor etc.45
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 7, 1780.
Gentlemen : I had the honor of receiving your favor of the
23d. ulto. while on my way to this place, at which I arrived last
Evening. The Returns which you require from the Officers of
Cavalry 47 shall be immediately called for and transmitted when
brought in.
The passport for the Sloop Carolina Packet only came to my
hands this day.48 I am under the necessity of forwarding it by
the Count de Custine, as the Quarter Master Genl. has it not in
his power to furnish an Express with the means of bearing his
Expences to Philada.49 I have the honor etc.45
45 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
46 Anne Alexandre Marie Sulpice Josef, Due de Montmorency Laval. He was mestre
de camp and commandant of the Regiment Bourbonnais.
47 Returns of equipment needed.
48 See Washington's letter to Sir Henry Clinton, Nov. 16, 1780, ante.
40 See Washington's letter to Col. Seth Warner, Nov. 12, 1780, ante.
1780] SHORT ENLISTMENT EVIL 437
To GOVERNOR JONATHAN TRUMBULL
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 8, 1780.
Dear Sir: On my arrival at this place, I met with your Excel-
lency's favor of the 27th November, and immediately gave
Orders for the Returns which you request therein. They shall
be transmitted to you, as soon as they are brought in. I have
given directions to Colonel Sheldon to make the Return of his
Regiment immediately to you. I very much regret that the
requisition of Congress, for your quota of men, had not reached
you in time, to have determined your Legislature upon fixing
the period of service for the War. We are deceiving ourselves,
and keeping alive the hopes of our Enemy while we levy an
Army for a day short of the period of the dispute. I did not
expect that the Recruits would be got into service, at least in
any considerable numbers, by the 1st of January.
And rather than enter again into the fatal error of short inlist-
ments, I would prefer putting matters to some hazard during
the Winter, to calling upon the States for a body of men to serve
between the 1st of January and the probable time of bringing
the Levies into the field; because I am certain it would operate
against more permanent engagements. What your Excellency
proposes respecting the French Troops cannot be accomplished,
(in confidence I say it.) They are thought by the French Gen-
eral and Admiral necessary; circumstanced as Matters are, to
the security of their Navy.
As soon as the new Arrangement of the Army is compleated,
Your Excellency shall be furnished with a list of the Officers.
I have the honor &c.
P. S. I reed Yours pr Mr. Buel and gave the necessary Orders
upon the occasion.50
50 In the writing of David Humphreys. From the original in the Connecticut State
Library.
438 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 8, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have been favored upon my arrival here, with
your several Letters of the 28th. Ulto. also the 1st. and 3d.
Instant.
I am informed that the salted Beef which was expected from
the Eastward, has come forward; and am to request that 100
Barrels of it, may be immediately embarked and sent to Albany,
while the River remains open, for the use of the Garrison of
Fort Schuyler: the remainder should be kept in reserve, and
not issued on any account whatever.
The sooner that destined for Fort Schuyler, can be got to
Albany the better, that it may be pushed from thence, by the
first conveyance to the Garrison. lam, etc.51 [ms.h.sj
*To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
New Windsor, December 8, 1780.
Dear Sir: The Marquis's wonted Zeal and active spirit have
led him to seek service on the Southern theatre as he supposes
we are to remain in a torpid State in this quarter during the
Winter.
You are too well acquainted with his Military talents and
enterprising genious to need testimony of either from me. I
shall only add that it is more than probable he will again return
to a command in this Army at the opening of the next Cam-
paign. Under this information you are to consider how far
circumstances will enable you to give him a temporary com-
mand in your Army worthy of his acceptance. With great
regard etc.
"In the writing of David Humphreys.
1780] LAFAYETTE IN THE SOUTH 439
*To MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE
New Windsor, December 8, 1780.
My dear Marqs: Since mine of yesterday by the Count de
Castine another oppertunity has offered of writing to you more
leizurely, and as your departure for the Southward, if that ulti-
mately should be your determination, may be incommoded by
delay, I have taken the liberty of facilitating your journey by the
inclosed dispatches. I beg you to be perswaded, however, that
I do not mean by this to fix your determination of serving in
the Southern Army. It is my earnest wish (as I mentioned at
Morris Town) that you shd. be governed in this matter by
European and Southern advices wch. ought, and alone can,
determine you with propriety. These you are more in the way
of receiving than I am.52 If there is a prospect of a Naval supe-
riorty in these Sea's, and an augmentation of the (French) land
force at Rhode Island, I shall with the freedom of a friend give
it as my opinion, that your going to the Southern Army (if
you expect a command in this) will answer no valuable pur-
pose; but must be fatiegueing to yourself and embarrassing to
Generl. [Greene],53 as it may contravene a permanent arrange-
ment to the disgust of those who considering themselves as
belonging to that Army may be hurt at disappointments. On
the other hand, if we are likely to remain in a state of inactiv-
ity in this quarter your seeking service to the Southward where
there is a more fruitful field for enterprize is not only an evi-
dence of your Zeal but will be supported by every rule of mili-
tary reasoning; hence it is, I again repeat, that circumstances
should alone decide.
2 Lafayette was then in Philadelphia.
'Greene's name inadvertently omitted.
440 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
In all places, and at all times, my best wishes for your health,
honor and glory will accompany you, with much truth I can
add that I am etc.
To SUNDRY GENTLEMEN IN VIRGINIA
New Windsor, December 8, 1780.
Dr. Sir : I have the pleasure of introducing to your acquaint-
ance the Marquis de la Fayette a Majr. Genl. in the American
Army and an Officr. of rank in those of France. This Gentns.
family, Fortune and illustrious connexions are alone sufficient
to entitle him to our highest esteem and respect but when the
obligation which America is under to him for his early attach-
ment to her rights; his great zeal in, and powerful support of
her cause are known, I am perswaded it will give you pleasure
to shew him every civility in your power.
It is probable he may be accompanied by his Brother in law
the Count de Noailles, and Count de Damas, two Gentn. of
Family fortune and Rank in the French Army at Rhode Island
whose zeal to serve America leads them to make a Southern
Campaign this Winter, if they can obtain permission of the
Count de Rochambeau Commanding the French Army at
Rhode Island; should this event take place I beg leave to rec-
ommend them also to your attention. With much esteem etc.54
To BRIGADIER GENERAL JEDIDIAH HUNTINGTON
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 8, 1780.
Dear Sir: Since my arrival at this place I have received Your
Letter of the 2nd. Inst. Although I am utterly averse to have
M Practically this same letter was also sent to Gov. Thomas Sim Lee, of Maryland,
the original of which is in the Chapin Library, Williamstown, Mass. The same let-
ter also as that to Governor Lee was sent to Governor Jefferson, of Virginia. It is in
the Jefferson Papers in the Library of Congress.
1780] CAVALRY ACCOUTREMENTS 441
the Line of any State left without a General Officer, yet under the
circumstances you mention; you have my permission to visit
your friends, of whom I wish you a happy sight, and an agree-
able journey to them. lam &c.55
To COLONEL STEPHEN MOYLAN
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 8, 1780.
Sir: You will be pleased to make to the Board of War (and
send duplicates to me) as soon as possible, an accurate return
of the Men and Horses in your Regiment, the quantity of
Cloathing and number of Arms, Accoutrements and furniture
of every kind fit for service, and what will be the deficiency,
estimating the strength of your Corps at the new Establish-
ment. You will also make a return of the Articles of Cloathing
and Accoutrements drawn by the Regt. since the 1st: Septemr.
1779. The foregoing are called for by the Board of War, for
their government, as they are directed by Congress to make
provision for the Cavalry.
Should you have any Men in your Regiment belonging to
the State of Connecticut and who are inlisted for the War, be
pleased to make me a return of their Names, and the towns to
which they belong in the State. I am &c.56
To BRIGADIER GENERAL JOHN STARK
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 8, 1780.
Dear Sir: When I arrived at New Windsor I found your
Letter of the 30th Ulto. had been lying there several days for
me. In Answer to your request for leave of absence, I have to
"'The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
MThe draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
442 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
observe there are so small a number of General Officers with
the Army, that the good of the service will not permit any fur-
ther indulgences at this time. Whenever there are more Offi-
cers than are absolutely necessary for the Men in Camp, I shall
be happy in attending to their convenience and gratification
in respect. Iam&c.57
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, New Windsor,
Friday, December 8, 1780.
A return to be made to the Adjutant General by the 12th.
Instant of the Noncommissioned Officers and Privates in the
Connecticut line inlisted to serve during the War specifying
their names and the towns or districts to which they belong.
A like Return to be made by the same time of all men be-
longing to the State of Connecticut who are serving in any of
the Additional regiments (Colonel Hazen's excepted) in the
Artillery, Cavalry, Sappers and Miners, or Artificers. It is ex-
pected that these returns will be made with the greatest accu-
racy and that none will be included but those who are inlisted
for the War as the true deficiency of the State Quota will de-
pend upon them.
The Commander in Chief is pleased to accept and Approve
the following report of a court of Enquiry held at West Point the
19th. day of November last, " To examine into the Conduct of
Major David S. Franks in his connexion with the late Major
General Arnold during his command at West Point and Rela-
tive to his Desertion to the Enemy."
Colonel H. Jackson, President; Lieutenant Colonel Dear-
born, Major Reid and Captains Cox and Walker, Members.
"The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
1780] EXCHANGE NEGOTIATION 443
The court report their opinion:
"That every part of Major David S. Franks's conduct was
not only unexceptionable but reflects the highest Honor on
him as an officer, distinguishes him as a Zealous Friend to the
Independence of America and justly entitles him to the Atten-
tion and Confidence of his Countrymen."
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 8, 1780.
Sir : I had the honor of receiving your favor of the 25th : ulto.
on my way to this place from Morris Town. A Field Officer of
Artillery shall be sent to Carlisle to superintend the Elabora-
tory agreeable to the directions of Congress.
Under the powers with which Congress were pleased to vest
me by their Resolve of the 7th : of November, I made the prop-
osition (No. 1) to Sir Henry Clinton, to which I have received
his answer No. 2.58 As I am not at liberty to accede to the ex-
change of one division of the Troops of the Convention, for
our Officers who remain in captivity upon Long Island, pre-
vious to the adjustment of the account for the subsistence of
those Troops, I must refer the matter to Congress, who will
judge, from the representation which will be made to them by
Brigr. Genl. Irvine and Colo. Matthews, of the expediency of
going immediately into such partial exchange, or a general one
of the Convention troops against our southern prisoners, and
leaving the liquidation of all accounts of prisoners from the
commencement of the War, to future discussion. These
^See Washington's letter to Sir Henry Clinton, Nov. 20, 1780. Clinton's letter to
Washington (Nov. 29, 1780), an extract of which is filed with Washington's letter
to Congress in the Papers of the Continental Congress, is in the Washington Papers.
444 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
Gentlemen have arguments to offer in support of the measure,
of the weight of which Congress will judge, when they are laid
fully before them.
As a very considerable time must elapse before the accounts
can be collected and arranged, I shall inform Sir Henry Clin-
ton that I cannot, for that reason, yet appoint a time for the
meeting of Commissioners. I have the honor etc.59
To COLONEL ELISHA SHELDON
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 8, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, your favr. of the 2d inst. You may call in
the Dragoons who were stationed as Expresses on the Road to
New London.
You will be pleased to make to me, as soon as possible an
accurate return of the number of Men and Horses in your Regi-
ment; the quantity of Cloathing and number of Arms, Accou-
trements and Furniture of every kind fit for service and what
will be the deficiency estimating the Strength of your Corps at
the new establishment. You will also make a return of the Ar-
ticles of Cloathing and Accoutrements drawn by the Regt.
since the 1st. Sept. 1779. The foregoing are called for by the
Board of War, for their government, as they are directed by
Congress to make provision for the Cavalry.
You will also make out and transmit to His Excellency Gov-
ernor Trumbull a Return of such of your Men as belong to the
State of Connecticut and who are inlisted for the War specify-
ing their names and the Towns and districts to which they
belong. Iam&c.60
0BIn the writing of Tench Tilghman. The letter was read in Congress on December
18 and referred to John Sullivan, John Mathews, and Theodorick Bland.
°°The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] ARTILLERY ARTIFICERS 445
To NATHANIEL SHAW
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 8, 1780.
Sir : On my arrival at New Windsor I was favored with your
Letter of the 23d. Novr. inclosing Bills of expence incurred in
forwarding Dispatches between Rhode Island and Head Quar-
ters, in consequence of my Letter of the 31st. of July last. The
Accts. are delivered to Col. Pickering Q. M. G. with an Order
for settlement, which will be done, as soon as he shall receive
any public money.
I have also to thank you for the trouble you have taken to
procure and transmit intelligence; and am etc.61
To BRIGADIER GENERAL HENRY KNOX
Head Quarters, December 9, 1780.
Dear Sir: Congress have ordered all the Artillery Artificers
in Pennsylvania to be removed to Carlisle and have directed a
Field Officer of Artillery to be detached to that place, to take
the command, and superintend the Elaboratory there. You
will be pleased to detach an officer upon this service and give
him the necessary Instructions upon the occasion. I am &c.62
To COLONEL JAMES WOOD
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 9, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have to request that you will be pleased to give
the necessary directions for Capt. Sweatenham,63 and Lieut.
Murray64 of the 9th. British Regt. to go on their Parole to New
01 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
62 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
03 Capt. George Swettenham.
"Lieut. James Murray.
446 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
York; pointing out the same route as has been given to the Offi-
cers already sent thither on their Parole. I am &c.65 [ n. y. p. l. ]
To LEWIS PINTARD
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 9, 1780.
Sir: I am exceedingly sorry to find by your letter to Mr.
Tilghman that you decline going into New York as Agent for
Prisoners, as your family have come out. Should you persist in
your determination, I shall be much obliged to you to recom-
mend a proper person to me. Genl. Irvine and the Gentlemen
who came out with him mention a Mr. Bogart who is in their
opinion qualified for the business; but you may perhaps be bet-
ter acquainted with him. I shall be glad of your opinion of
him, if you decline the Office. I am &c.66
To GOVERNOR THOMAS JEFFERSON
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 9, 1780.
Dr Sir: I have been duly honored with Your Excellency's
several Letters of the 3d. 10th. and 19th Novembr. with their
Inclosures; at the time of their receipt, the Army was preparing
for Winter Quarters, and a multiplicity of business prevent-
ing my acknowledging them until this moment. I pray you
now to be assured, I was extremely obliged by your particular
attention, in making those communications, which were so in-
teresting and necessary while the Enemy were expected to
operate in your State. Since your last, I have heard nothing of-
ficially of their movements to the Southward; from whence
I shall still be very anxious to have the earliest and most authen-
tic intelligence.
05 In the writing of David Humphreys.
60The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] REDUCTION OF ARMY 447
We have nothing new of importance in this quarter. The
Troops are disposed of in their Winter Cantonments, the Penn-
sylvania line near Morris Town; the Jersey Brigade at Pomp-
ton to cover the communication with the North River; the
York Brigade in the neighbourhood of Albany, furnishing a
Garrison for Fort Schuyler. And the remainder of the Army,
viz the New Hampshire, Massachusets, Rhode Island and
Connecticut Lines at West Point, and its vicinity. The French
fleet and Army remain still at Rhode Island. The Enemy's fleet
it is thought will winter in Gardners Bay ; and their Army occu-
pies its former position on York Island and its dependencies.
It is happy for us, that the season will probably compel both
Armies to continue in a state of inactivity; since ours is so much
reduced by discharging the Levies, which composed a consid-
erable part of it, even before their time of service expired; this
expedient we were forced to adopt from the present total want
of flour, and the precarious prospect of a supply of that Article.
I cannot but hope, a more vigorous and effectual measures will
be pursued for obtaining supplies before another Campaign.
A Flag Vessel has permission to go from New York to the
usual place in Virginia to carry supplies and necessaries for
the troops of Convention, should any alteration of the disposi-
tion of those Troops, make any new directions necessary, I
must request your Excellency to give them.
I shall make it a point, to communicate the earliest advices
of any movement of the Enemy, which are necessary to be
known by You, and in the mean time I have the honor etc.
P. S. Since writing the above I have been favored with Your
Letter of 26th Ulto. I will endeavour to obtain a Model for
the construction of Boats,67 and transmit it by an early con-
veyance. I am this moment informed from New York another
07 The light, portable boats about which General Greene was to advise.
448 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
embarkation is taking place consisting of i Batt. Grenadiers,
i Batt. Lt Infantry, i Batt. Hessian Grenadiers, Knyphausens
Regt., 42d British; a Draft of 5 Men from each Company in the
Line and 2 Troops of Lt Dragoons under Genls. Knyphausen
and Philips, supposed to be destined Southward.08
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM PHILLIPS
Head Quarters, December 9, 1780.
Sir : I had the honor of receiving your f avr. of the 30th. No-
vember by Brigr. Genl. Irvine. Inclosed you will find a pass-
port for the Ship General de Reidesel, made out agreeable to
the form and terms which you requested. I have the honor etc.69
To SIR HENRY CLINTON
Head Quarters, December 9, 1780.
Sir: I have received your favr. of the 29th. November by
Brigr. Genl. Irvine and the Officers who accompanied him. As
you have proposed that all accounts respecting prisoners of
War from the commencement of the dispute to the present
time, as well as the accounts of the troops of Convention shall
be adjusted by the Commissioners when they meet, I have writ-
ten to Congress on the subject, and have desired them to give
directions to have the accounts collected and arranged and as
this must take up a considerable length of time, I think it need-
less to name Commissioners before a time can be fixed upon,
with some degree of certainty, for their meeting.
Under the powers, with which I am at present vested, I am
not at liberty to accede to the exchange of a division of the Con-
vention troops for the remainder of our Officers upon Long
Island, previous to the settlement of Accounts.
08 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
83The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] SUPPLIES FOR PRISONERS 449
I have, by this opportunity, transmitted Genl. Phillips the
passports for the Flag Ship General de Reidesel. I only waited
for the particular description of the Vessel, Master &c. with
which I was furnished by Genl. Phillips in a letter from him of
the 30th last Month.
I have informed Lieut. Morris that he is released from his
parole and your Excellency will be pleased to signify to Gover-
nor Burt of Antigua that Mr. Burke is also at liberty. I am etc.70
MARINE PASSPORT
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 9, 1780.
By His Excellency George Washington Esqr. General and
Commander in chief of the Forces of the United States of
America.
Permission is hereby granted for the Ship General de Reide-
sel, about 180 Tons Burthen: William Boyes Master, James
Bailie Mate and fourteen Seamen, to proceed as a Flag of truce
from the Port of New York to James River in Virginia, laden
with Stores and Refreshments for the Troops of Convention.
Permission is likewise granted to Capt. Gerlach,71 Lieut. Her-
stale,72 Corporal Fitch, Bernard Kageler and Johan Jacob Buch-
ner, privates; Mr. Commissary Hoaksley,73 Mr. Richard Brasil,
Clerk; Conductor Reily, and Serjeant Mudd, to proceed in the
said Vessel to take charge of the British and German Stores.
The Ship, after having discharged her Stores and waited a
reasonable time for the persons who conduct them to Char-
lotteville, is to be permitted to return to the Port of New York
as a Flag with the passengers abovenamed.70
70 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
71 Capt. H. Gerlach, deputy quartermaster general, Brunswick troops.
72 Lieut. von Hartstall( ?), of the Regiment Buenau, German allied troops,
British Army.
"Robert Hoakesley. He was wagonrnaster general, Convention troops, and mer-
chant of Yorktown, Va.
450 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
To GOVERNOR THOMAS JEFFERSON
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 10, 1780.
Sir: The specific supplies required of your State, by the Act
of Congress of the 4th. of last Month, being all alloted to the
use of the southern Army, I must beg leave to refer your Excel-
lency to Major General Greene or Officer commanding in that
department for the places of deposit. These, by the Resolve,
are left to my determination, but as the commanding Officer
to the southward will be so much better enabled to judge of
the proper places, from circumstances, I hope your Excellency
will think I am justifiable in referring the matter to him. I have
the honors &c.74 [v.s.l.]
CIRCULAR TO THE STATES 75
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 10, 1780.
Sir: You76 will, I presume, have received, before this reaches
you, an Act of Congress of the 4th. of last Month, calling on the
several States for specific quantities of Fresh and Salt provision,
Flour, Salt and Rum for the Army and directing all of the
above Articles, except the Fresh Meat, to be collected and de-
posited at such places in each of the States, as should be judged
most convenient by me. This communication I should have
done myself the honor of making somewhat earlier, had not
the greater part of my time, since the receipt of the Act, been
taking up in arranging and77 visiting the Hospitals and Winter
Cantonments of the Army.
74 In the writing of Tench Tilghman. The draft contains the following note in the
writing of David Humphreys: "Information given of an embarkation getting in
readiness to sail from New York."
76 From New Hampshire to Maryland, inclusive.
The draft at this point has: "(or your Excellency as the stile may be)."
"The words "arranging and" appear in the circular to some of the States and not
1780] SUPPLY DEPOSITARIES 451
Upon considering the point with respect to the supplies re-
quired of your State, I beg leave to inform you (or your Excel-
lency) that it appears to me they should be deposited at the
following places and proportions. (Vide the inclosed paper
fixing the places of deposit and proportions and insert them
accordingly)
The Commy. General, as he is directed, will inform you from
time to time of the Quantities of live Cattle which will be neces-
sary and where they are to be delivered. I have the honor etc.78
78 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
Photostats of the circulars sent to New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Maryland are
in the Library of Congress.
The draft of the " paper fixing the places of deposit and proportions " of the sup-
plies is in the Washington Papers in the writing of Tilghman. It is as follows:
"New Hampshire: ist. 2d. and 3d. deposits of Rum to be at Charles town No. 4.
The last deposit to remain at Portsmouth for further Orders. The Salt Meat to be de-
posited at Portsmouth and Charlestown No. 4, in the following proportions all on the
East side of Merimack River to be carried to Portsmouth, and all on the west side to
Charles town No: 4.
"Massachusetts: To deposit their Salt Provision and Salt at Springfield and Great
Barrington in equal proportions, except the last delivery of Salt which may wait the
Commissary's order at Boston.
"The ist: 2d. and 3d. delivery of Rum, two thirds at Great Barrington, one third
at Springfield. The last delivery of this Article to remain at Boston for further orders.
" Rhode Island : The whole to be delivered at Providence, except the Fresh Meat.
"Connecticut: The Salt provisions and Salt to be delivered at or near Bulls Iron
Works and Harford in equal proportions. The ist. 2d. and 3d. deliveries of Rum at
or near Bulls Iron Works. The last at Harford.
"New York: 700 Barrels of Flour, 350 do. Beef or pork, at Fort Schuyler. The
remainder of the Salt Meat and Flour at West Point, Fishkill, New Windsor and
Albany.
"New Jersey: The whole of the Salt, salt Meat and Flour at Morris Town, Pitts
Town, Sussex Court House and Ringwood as may suit the State, as to the quantities
at each.
"Pennsylvania: Fort Pitt — 2400 Bbls Flour. 1000 Bbls Salt Meat or salt equivalent
to put up that quantity upon the spot. 7000 Gallons Spirits.
"Carlisle — 800 Bbs Flour. 3000 Gallons Spirits. 250 Bbls salt Meat or salt equiva-
lent to put up that quantity on the spot.
"Wyoming — 200 Bbls Flour. 1000 Gallons Spirits. 100 Bushels Salt.
"Lancaster — 1000 Bbls Flour. 3000 Gallons Spirits. 500 Bushels Salt.
"Easton — 10,000 Bbls Flour.
"Philada. — All the remainder of Salt; salt Meat, Flour and Rum.
"Delaware: The whole of the Salt; Salt Meat, Flour and Rum at Christiana Bridge.
"Maryland: % of Salt; Salt Meat, Flour and Rum at the Head of Elk. The remain-
ing %ds. which are intended for the southern Army at Baltimore and George Town
in such proportions as may suit the State.
"Virginia and North Carolina: General Greene or Commanding Officer in southern
department to fix the places of deposit."
452 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
*To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
New Windsor, December 10, 1780.
Dr Sir: I thank you for the perusal of the inclosed proceed-
ings of the Convention at Hartford.79
The letter herewith, left open for your perusal to Genl. Clin-
ton, calls for Majr. Davis,80 and such Officers as you may want,
and he can spare, for the purpose of Recruiting Men for the
York Battalions. You will be so good therefore as to act in
this matter as you shall think best. With much esteem etc.
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 10, 1780.
Dear Sir : I have the honor to inclose to Your Excellency a
Letter this moment received from Mr Stevens the Commissy.
of Issues at Fish Kill: I must submit to you the propriety of
suffering this flour to be exported, or the necessity of detaining
it, under the present circumstances of the Army.
It is with the utmost regret I am compelled to represent to
you, the distressed situation of the Troops on this River for
want of bread, and the disagreeable prospects before us. The
Army has been served for several days past, with but a small
pittance of their Rations, there is no flour in the Magazines,
and I cannot learn from whence the next supply is to be de-
rived. Under these circumstances it is impossible for me to be
responsible for the important Posts on this River, or even to
assure myself the Troops can be kept together from one day
to another.
79 Of the four New England States and New York, which met in Hartford, Conn.,
in November, 1780, and recommended to the several States to vest the military with
civil powers of an extraordinary kind.
^Maj. John Davis, of the Fourth New York Regiment. He was retired in January,
1781.
1780] OFFICERS' RATIONS 453
I have therefore to entreat Your Excellency that the most
vigorous and effectual measures may be instantly adopted for
procuring relief. I will not presume to recommend the mode,
but only to observe, that unless some spirited exertions, or
coercive means are immediately made use of, for obtaining a
supply; I can see nothing but ruin stare us in the face. I have
the honor etc.81
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 10, 1780.
Dear Sir: I am favd. with yours of the 9th. From the repre-
sentation made by General Clinton and Colo. Hay of the sup-
ply of Meat in the Northern department, I do not think there
will be any need of sending the 100 Barrels of salt Beef to Al-
bany. You will endeavour to have it distributed in the different
Works.
Under present circumstances, we should rather increase than
diminish the discharge of the Levies, and such of the three
years Men whose times are nearly out, and who are unfit for
duty for want of Cloathes had better be discharged than new
cloathed out of our slender Stock.
If our Magazine of provision was ample, it would make no
great odds whether the Officers drew their extra Rations upon
the issuing days, or once or twice a Month. But by letting them
lay, they may perhaps demand their due Bills at times when
we are particularly distressed. I therefore think they had best
draw regularly, or not let them lay more than a week behind
hand.
I have no objection to the State Cloathiers delivering out to
the troops what Articles they have upon hand, under this strict
81 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
454 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec
injunction, that they, immediately after the Issue, make re-
turns to the Cloathier General of the Quantity delivered. If
they do not do this, they will not be allowed to draw any thing
from the public store when the general Issue is made.
I gave you my sentiments the day before yesterday upon
the manner of Colo. Hazens arresting Majr. Reid. He ought,
I think, either to go into the trial immediately, or withdraw
the Arrest untill he can come to a certainty of the time when
his proofs will be ready. He may otherwise keep him the
whole Winter in confinement.
At this season, Beef sufficient for a Week may be safely
killed and carried on to the Point. I do not think the River will
ever remain in an impassable state more than that time. As to
Flour, we can only hope for a better supply. I am &c.82
[MS.H.S.]
To BARON STEUBEN
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 10, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received the three Letters you did me the
favor to write before you Left Philadelphia; and have made
representation to Congress respecting the Inspector Depart-
ment agreeable to your request.
This moment I am also favored with Yours of the 24th Ulto.
from Richmond, and am pleased to find you are still pursuing,
with indefatigable industry those measures which will tend
so much to promote the public Service.
You will see by the Dating of this Letter that Head Quarters
are at the same place they were in the Campaign of 1779. The
Army is Cantoned in the following manner: the Pennsylvania
Line near Morris Town; the Jersey Brigade at the entrance of
the Clove to cover the Communication; the New York Brigade
82In the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] NEW YORK RECRUITING 455
in the Vicinity of Albany furnishing the Garrison of Fort
Schuyler and the New England Lines at West Point and its
dependencies; the Regts much weakened by discharging the
Levies.
It is reported from New York that the Enemy are about
to make another Detachment, consisting of i Battalion Gren-
adiers; i Batt Lt Infantry; i Batt Hessian Grenadiers; Knyp-
hausen's Regt; 42d British, a Draft of 5 Men from each Com-
pany in the Line, and two Troops of Light Dragoons under
the Generals Knyphausen and Phillips; their destination con-
jectured to be Southward. I shall be glad to hear from you
often ; and am etc.83
#To BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES CLINTON
New Windsor, December 10, 1780.
Dear Sir: Upon receipt of this you will send Majr. Davis of
Wisenfelds Regiment to his Excellency Governor Clinton
whose Orders he is to obey. You will be pleased to send such
other Officers as the Governor may require, and the State of the
regiments in the York line can spare, to his Excellency, for
the purposes of Recruiting. They will receive their Instructions
from him, and a reimbursement of their expences from the
State.
As it will be less waste of time (every moment of which is
precious) it is probable the Govr. may furnish the means and
send his instructions thro' you to the Officers who may recruit
in the Northern and Western parts of the State. In this case
you will give every assistance in your power to facilitate this
important business. I am &c.
83The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
456 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
To CAPTAIN BARTHOLOMEW VON HEER
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 10, 1780.
Sir: You will be pleased to make to me as soon as possible
an accurate return of the Men and Horses in your troop; the
quantity of Cloathing and number of Arms, Accoutrements
and furniture of every kind fit for service, and what will be
your deficiencies for the next Campagn. You will also make
a return of all the Articles of Cloathing and Accoutrements
drawn by the troop since the 1st. Septr 1779. The foregoing
are called for by the Board of War, for their government, as
they are directed by Congress to make provision for the Cav-
alry. Iam&c.84
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 10, 1780.
Sir: I have received your Excellency's favors of the 14th.
16th. 24th. 27th. November and 1st. of this month. In apology
for suffering so many of your letters to remain so long unan-
swered, I must assure you, that I have been constantly em-
ployed, since I broke up my Camp near Passaic Falls, in visiting
the winter Cantonments of the Army between Morris town
and this place.
I have experienced the highest satisfaction in the visits which
the Chevalier Chattelus, Viscount Noialles, Count de damas,
Count de Custine and Marquis de laval have done me the
honor to make me. I have only to regret that their stay with
me was so short. I unfortunately missed seeing the Count de
deux ponts, who had left my quarters, on his way to Philada.,
before I arrived at them. I, however, flatter myself, that I shall
have the pleasure of seeing him on his return.
84 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman
1780] WEAKNESS OF THE ARMY 457
I very much approve of your intention of quartering the sec-
ond division85 in Connecticut rather than in Massachusetts.
The troops will certainly be more convenient to the probable
scene of operations.
I shall withdraw the Chain of our Dragoons and shall in
future send my dispatches to the Duke Lauzun at Lebanon as
your Excellency desires.
I wish it were in my power to furnish your Excellency with
the New York papers; but as our communication with that
place is very irregular, I only obtain them accidently. I now
inclose you one, which contains nothing material, but the
account of the late dreadful Hurricane in the West Indies.
I take the opportunity of sending this by Colo. Fleury80 who
returns to your Army. I was made very happy in again seeing
that amiable and valuable Officer, whose services I have experi-
enced upon so many occasions. I have the honor etc.87
*To GOUVERNEUR MORRIS
New Windsor, December 10, 1780.
Dear Sir : Your letter of the 28th. Ulto. I met with on my way
to this place, where I arrived on the 6th. Instt. The Suggestions
contained in it required no apology, as it gives me please, at all
times to know the Sentiments of others upon points of public
utility; those however which you have delivered relative to
an enterprize against the enemy in New York, exhibit strong
evidence how little the world is acquainted with the circum-
stances, and strength of our Army. A Small second embarka-
tion took place about the middle of last Month; if another is
in contemplation to take effect at the reduction of our force
k'The expected second division of the French.
88 Fleury transferred back into the French Army as major of the Regiment Saintonge.
87 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
458 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
(which I think exceedingly probable) it is too much in embryo
to form more than conjectural opinions of it, at this time; but
I will suppose it large, and that not more than 6,000 regular
troops will be left behind. Where are the Men; Where are the
provisions ; Where the Cloaths ; the everything necessary to war-
rant the attempt you propose, in an inclement Season ? Our
numbers, never equal to those of the enemy in New York.
Our State lines, never half compleat in Men, but perfectly so in
every species of want, were diminished in the Field, so soon as
the Weather set in cold; near 2000 Men on account of Cloaths,
which I had not to give, nor ought to have given (supposing
a surplusage) to the levies, whose dismission was near at hand.
And now, to save the Man who is a permanent Soldier from
starving I am obliged in place of calling in the aid of Militia for
new enterprizes to dismiss the levies on account of the Pro-
vision. Under this description of our circumstances, (which
is not high coloured), And when to it is added that instd. of
getting Lumber from Albany for building Barracks on York
Island in the manner, and for the purposes you mention that
we have neither money nor credit adequate to the purchase of a
few boards for Doors to our Log huts. When every ounce of
Forage that has been used all the latter part of the Campaign,
and a good deal of the Provision, has been taken at the point
of the Bayonet. When we were from the Month of May to the
Month of Sepr. collecting Militia that ought to have been in
the field by the middle of July, and then obliged to dismiss
them for want of Supplies. When we cannot dispatch an Offi-
cer, or common Express upon the most urgent occasion for
want of the means of support; and when I add but this is a
matter of trivial concern because it is of a personl. nature that
I have not been able to obtain a farthing of public money for
the support of my Table for near two Months, you can be at no
loss as I have before observed to discover the impracticability
1780] COLLECTION OF BOATS 459
of executing the measure you suggested even supposing the en-
emy's numbers were reduced to your Standerd, but which by
the way neither is, nor will be the case, till the reduction of our
Army takes place, the period of which they know as well as we
do, and will, I have little doubt, govern themselves accordingly.
An Earnest desire however of closing the campaign with some
degree of eclat led me to investigate the means most thoroughly
of doing it and my wishes had so far got the better of my judg-
ment that I had actually made some pretty considerable ad-
vances in the prosecution of a plan for this purpose when alas !
I found the means inadequate to the end88 and that it was with
difficulty I could remove the army to its places of Cantonment
where it would be well for the Troops, if like Chameleons, they
could live upon Air, or like the Bear, suck their paws for suste-
nance during the rigour of the approaching season. I am &c.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, New Windsor,
Monday, December n, 1780.
A Captain, two Subs, three Serjeants, three corporals and
Fifty oarsmen from the Connecticut Line are to be furnished
with Boats and reinforce the water Guard. This detachment
to be from the Light Infantry companies. The Captain will
apply without delay to Head Quarters for Instructions.
The General having observed several boats adrift in the river
and apprehending many may be lost, directs the Quarter mas-
ter General to consult with Major General Heath and settle
the number necessary for the use of the Garrison of West
Point; and that the remainder be removed and properly laid
up at Murderers Creek; those that are scattered on the river
are to be collected and secured in the same manner.
88 Cf. Humphreys's explanation in footnote to Washington's letter to Col. Stephen
Moylan, Nov. 24, 1780.
460 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
A return of blankets, hats, shirts, coats, waistcoats, breeches
or overalls, stockings and shoes, Good, Bad and Wanting in
the regiments of Infantry, Artillery, and Sappers and Miners
to be made to the Adjutant General on Saturday next; none
are to be included but men inlisted for the war and those who
have three months to serve from this time. It is expected that
the commanding officers of regiments will see that the above
Returns are made with accuracy and that any clothing lately
received immediately from State agents or clothiers is taken
into the account, as all such is as much a continental supply as
that drawn from the Clothier General. The commanding offi-
cers of lines are desired to direct their state clothiers to make
at the same time returns of what they have upon hand.
At a Division General court martial held in the Connecticutt
line by order of Brigadier General Huntington: Lieutenant
Colonel Gray, president: Lieutenant Wales89 of the 4th. Con-
necticutt regiment was tried on the following charges:
1st. For being Absent from Camp from the 18 of Septem-
ber, 1779, 'till the 20 of May, 80 without Liberty.
2d. For being Absent from July the 3d. 'till the 14th. of
October, following after having obtained Liberty for five days
only, promising at the same time upon his Word and Honor
to return within the limited time.
The Court considering the difficulty of procuring clothing
at that time and also that none was provided by the State to
gether with the evidences and reasons of Lieutenant Wales's
absence, are of opinion that he was not unnecessarily absent
and do therefore acquit him of both charges.
The Commander in Chief confirms the opinion of the Court
Lieutenant Wales is released from Arrest.
89 Lieut. Ebenezer Wales. He was transferred to the First Connecticut Regiment in
January, 1781, and served to November, 1783.
1780] DEPOSITARIES OF MEAT , ETC. 461
To MAJOR GENERAL BENJAMIN LINCOLN
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December n, 1780.
My dear Sir: I have received your favors of the 25th. and
28th: last month, and it gives me very great pleasure to find
that you are appointed to a Committee, the subject of whose
deliberations you are so well acquainted with, and it adds not
a little to my satisfaction, to hear that it is generally composed
of Gentlemen remarkable for their good sense and patriotism,
at a time, when there never was greater occasion for men of
those qualifications. The general good disposition prevailing
in the state, to promote measures of public utility, is also a
happy presage that matters will mend, in your quarter at least.
But how unfortunate is it, that the fatal system of temporary
inlistments should still have such an influence as to have pre-
vailed upon your Legislature to adopt the measure of raising
their Recruits for three years only ? [which in other words is
nothing more nor less than an inducement to the enemy to
prosecute the War three years longer.] You have, to your cost,
been a witness to the pernicious consequences attending a tem-
porary Army, and have therefore the better right to point out
to your fellow Citizens what may be expected while the Sys
tem is pursued. I will still hope, that they will, upon a recon-
sideration of the matter and conformable to the requisition of
Congress, determine upon raising their Men for the War only.
I have, by this opportunity, transmitted, to His Excellency
the Governor, an account of the places which will be, in my
opinion, most convenient and proper for the deposits of Salt,
Salt Meats and Rum. The Weekly or monthly supplies of Beef
Cattle, and the places at which they are to be delivered will be
pointed out occasionally by the Commy. General. He is not at
present with the Army. I can therefore only say, that if he has
462 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
given no directions to the contrary, the present monthly de-
mand should be complied with. Should it amount to more
than the consumption, the best can be salted down on their
arrival here.
Your remarks on the last clause of the Act of requisition are
undoubtedly very just, and I am confident it will be found,
upon examination, that some states have been largely deficient
in their specific supplies, otherwise we should not at this alarm-
ing period of the year be totally destitute of Flour. For which
I see no other chance of a supply, than the State of New York
being obliged to take measures that will be very disagreeable,
and most oppressive to individuals. It is a matter of delicacy
with me to complain to Congress of the default of any of the
States, or to criticize upon their own Acts, and I should there-
fore be very happy to see any of the Legislatures take the mat-
ter up, and point out the dangers arising from such a latitude
as is given in the case to which you allude.
To add to our other difficulties, the situation of the Army, in
respect to Cloathing, is really distressing. By collecting all our
Remnants, and those of a thousand colours and kinds, we shall
scarcely make them comfortable. Uniformity, one of the essen-
tials of discipline and every thing in the appearance of a sol-
dier, must be dispensed with; and what makes the matter more
mortifying is, that we have, I am positively assured, ten thou-
sand compleat suits ready in France, and laying there because
our public Agents cannot agree whose business it is to ship
them; [a quantity has also lain in the West Indies for more
than Eighteen Months owing probably to some such cause.]
You tell me there is Cloathing enough lately arrived in pri-
vate Bottoms to supply the Army. This, my dear Sir, is only
tantalizing the naked; such is the miserable state of continen-
tal Credit, that we cannot command a yard of it; some of the
States may, and I hope will, derive an advantage from it, [in
1780] THE CHAIN AT WEST POINT 463
which case I hope they will attend to the colors proper for their
Uniforms.] I informed them all, very lately, to what a mis-
erable condition their troops would be reduced, except they
would lay themselves out for Cloathing. I am certain that had
our supply of that Article been ample, we could have inlisted
a great proportion of the levies, who would, for the sake of
Cloathes, have dispensed with the Money Bounty for the pres-
ent. [With every Sentimt. of regd. etc.]90
To CAPTAIN DANIEL NIVEN 01
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 12, 1780.
Sir: The Logs which supported the Chain at West point are
so water soaken, that they will not do to lay down another
summer. You will therefore proceed with a party in search of
the proper Timber to make new Floats, and wherever you find
it cut it down. The Qr. Mr. General will have directions to
find the means of transporting it to the Water. I am &c.92
To CHARLES WILLSON PEALE
New Windsor, December 12, 1780.
Dear Sir: I persuade myself you will embrace the oppertu-
nity of the Marquis de la Fayette's visit to Philadelphia to give
the picture of him the finishing touches. You may not have
another oppertunity, and I wish its completion. I am, etc.
P. S. As I presume you must be done with my picture of the
King of Prussia 'ere this, I should be glad to have it returned
tome.93
00 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. The portions in brackets are in
the writing of Washington.
81 Of the Engineer Corps. He served to the close of the war.
62 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
B3The text is from Magazine of American History, vol. 32, p. 51 1.
464 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
To GOVERNOR JONATHAN TRUMBULL
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 13, 1780.
Dear Sir : I have this day forwarded a passport to New York
for the Brig Jenny to proceed from thence to New London as
a Flag of truce with Cloathing for the Prisoners at Rutland,
and to carry back such of them as have been lately exchanged.94
An Officer has permission to go with the Cloathing to Rutland
and return. The Vessel is directed to lay in such part of the
Port as the commanding Officer there shall think proper. If
you have any particular instructions to give on the subject, you
will be pleased to lodge them at New London. I have the
honor, etc.
P. S. I have just reed, information from New York, that a
considerable embarkation is taking place; supposed for the
Southwd. but it does not come through such a channel as to
demand entire credit.95
To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 13, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have received your favors of the 13th. and 19th.
of last Month from Mount Vernon and Richmond. I wish your
business had permitted you to have staid longer at the former.
It is happy for you that you went to the Southward prepared
to meet difficulties, which I fear will increase as you go for-
ward. I know of nothing which can relieve us in respect to
94 A draft of this passport, in the writing of Tench Tilghman, is in the Washington
Papers. It is similar in form to that for the ship General de Reidesel. (See Marine
Passport, Dec. 9, 1780, q. v.) The fenny was commanded by William Fleming, mas-
ter, and William Alson, mate. Captain Bartling, of the Brunswick troops, went in this
boat to convey the clothing from New London to Rutland.
00 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman; the P. S. is in that of David
Humphreys.
1780] SPECIFIC SUPPLIES 465
Cloathing, but the arrival of the quantity long expected from
France. There is an ample supply upon the Continent, but the
miserable state of our finance keeps it out of reach.
I foresee that the arrangement of the Virginia line upon the
new establishment will be attended with very great difficulty
on account of the number of Officers who are prisoners. The
reform will fall upon the Field Officers and Captains, princi-
pally upon the former, and you must therefore endeavour to
know the sentiments of those in captivity in Charles town, by
writing to Genl. Scott or the eldest Officer and desiring him to
enquire who are willing to remain in service and who wish
to retire. If they cannot come to an agreement among them-
selves, the Resolve of Congress points out the mode of settling
it finally.
The States, by a Resolve of the 4th. Novemr. are called upon
for specific supplies of Fresh and Salt Meat, Salt, Flour and
Rum and I am directed to point out the most convenient places
of deposit in each State.
The supplies of Virginia and North Carolina being totally
allotted to the use of the southern Army, I have desired the
Governors to consult with you upon the proper places. Two
thirds of those of Maryland being also intended for the south-
ward, I have directed that proportion to be lodged at Baltimore
and George town.
I have just received information from a person who was
employed by the Marquis and who speaks confidently and
from his own knowledge that an Embarkation under the
command of General's Knyphausen and Phillips had began at
New York upon the 8th. instant, consisting of 1 Battn. Gren-
adiers. . . ,96 This would make abt. 2500 Men. The destina-
tion, my informant says is kept a secret, but suspected to be
88 The omission is identical with the last paragraph of Washington's letter to Baron
Steuben, Dec. 10, 1780, q. v.
466 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
to the southward. He adds, that an account had been reed, at
New York that Leslie had relanded at Cape Fear.
Upon your arrival at the southern Army, you will be able to
give me a more perfect acct. of the situation of affairs in that
quarter. I hope they may be better than you expect and that you
will in the end meet with every success which you desire and
which your merit intitles you to. I am etc.97
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL FRANCIS BARBER
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 13, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed, your favr. of the nth. If there are
good reasons for suspecting Capt. Gifford's98 fidelity, I would
by no means give him a discharge from the Army, because he
might then go off to the enemy, and we should not have it in
our power to treat him as a deserter should he fall into our
hands again. I would at any rate bring him to a trial on his ar-
rest ; something may, in the course of it, turn up, which may give
sufficient grounds for securing him afterwards, if the sentence
of the Court should not find him guilty in a military point of
light. Should he be cashiered, and then go off, the enemy will
not have much to boast of, from the acquisition of such a
character. I am &c.
P. S. I am informed that a considerable embarkation has
taken place at New York. If Colo. Dayton is yet below, and
you can contrive a line to him, be pleased to desire him to let me
know, whether he has heard of such a matter and the particu-
lars. Be pleased also to forward the letter for Mr. Adams.99
87 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. A. P. S., "I shall forward your
letter to Mrs. Greene by the first good opportunity," is crossed oft.
98 Capt. William Bernard Gifford, of the Third New Jersey Regiment. He had been
wounded at Monmouth and taken prisoner at Elizabeth town; released in November,
1780, he shortly thereafter forwarded his commission to Colonel Barber.
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
John Adam (Adams). He was Deputy Commissary of Prisoners. The forwarded
letter is not now found among the Washington Papers.
1780]
GUARD BOAT PATROL 467
To CAPTAIN ROGER WELLES1
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 13, 1780.
Sir: You are to take the command of the Guard Boats, al-
ready in the River as well as of the Detachment ordered from
the Connect. Line to re-inforce them.
In the first instance, you will procure from West Point, light
Boats sufficient to transport the reinforcement, and pay par-
ticular attention yourself to have them repaired in the best
manner, the Oars Muffled, and every other necessary pro-
vided. Those now employed on this service, if out of repair,
should be re-fitted in the same Manner.
The object of your command is, to prevent a surprise by
water, of our Posts below, [including] that of Dobbs' Ferry;
and to communicate the earliest intelligence of any movements
of the Enemy to [Majr. Genl. Heath &ca.] For this purpose,
you will keep One or two of the Boats as far down as the
Slote, the remainder at Kings Ferry or the intermediate space,
establishing signals, to give notice of an Alarm. You may
occasionally go down the River with all the Boats at Your
Own discretion.
In case of an attempt upon the Block House at Dobbs Ferry
[while you may be down the River] you will assist in the de-
fence of the post: [not by shutting yourself in the Work but by
annoying the enemy without in such a manner] as may be
concerted with the Officer within.
You will not fail to report to me once a week, the best in-
formation you can obtain of the State and disposition of the
Enemy's fleet and Army at New York and its dependencies;
1Of Webb's Additional Continental regiment. He was transferred to the Third
Connecticut Regiment in January, 1781; wounded at Yorktown in October, 1781;
served to November, 1783.
468 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
transmitting such News Papers, or other intelligence as you
may procure to Head Quarters.
The greatest attention and vigilance will be necessary, in
having your Men and Boats always in readiness for action; to
prevent a surprize, which is ever disgraceful. And in having
your Command well supplied, not suffering any Marauding
or plundering of the Inhabitants under pretence of their being
Tories [and to prevt. as much as possible all kind of Supplies
going to the Enemy and traffic with the city.]2
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 13, 1780.
Sir: I have been honored with your Excellency's favors of
the 29th Novr. and 4th instant. I shall communicate to the
Officers of the Army such of the Resolves as relate to them. I
would beg leave to remark on that of the 29th of Novr. re-
specting the payment for wounded and disabled Horses, that
it makes no provision for any that may be left wounded upon
the field, and of course lost to the owners. All the former Re-
solves confined the payment solely to Horses killed in action,
the present makes it a condition, that the Horses wounded
and disabled shall, upon payment of the value, be delivered
up to the Quarter Mastr. Genl. I recollect several instances of
Officers who left their Horses wounded upon the Field, and
who could not recover the value of them, because the words of
the former Resolves, restricted the Qr Master General to the
payment for those killed in action.
I have received information from a person with whom I am
unacquainted, but who I know has been employed to gain in-
2 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys. The words in brackets are in
the writing of Washington.
1780] TASK IN THE SOUTH 469
telligence, that another embarkation was going on at New
York the 8th instant, and that he had himself seen the greatest
part of the Troops go on board. The Detachment was to be
commanded by Generals Knyphausen and Phillips. . . .3
The destination was kept a secret, but the Southward was the
general conjecture. I have communicated the intelligence to
Governors Lee, Jefferson, and Nash, and to General Greene.
I have been under the necessity of discharging the New Levies
before the expiration of their time, for want of Bread, of which
we have yet but a very scant supply, and if our Magazines do
not receive an addition before the River is obstructed, and
the Roads broken up, I foresee the greatest distress. I have the
honor etc.4
*To MAJOR GENERAL NATHANAEL GREENE
New Windsor, December 13, 1780.
Dear Sir: It gives me much pleasure to hear, that my letters of
introduction were serviceable to you. I am perswaded there is
not wanting a disposition in Congress, or the individual States
to the Southward to afford you every support the unhappy
state of our finance (which seems to be the source from whence
flows all our difficulties) will admit; but if any thing in my
power can give a spring to their exertions, every motive which
can flow from public and private considerations will urge me
to comply with yr. wishes.
You have no doubt an arduous task in hand, but where is the
man charged with conducting public business in these days of
public calamity that is exempt from it ? Your difficulties I am
perswaded are great; they may be insurmountable; but you see
3 The omitted portion is identical with the last paragraph of Washington's letter to
Baron Steuben, Dec. 10, 1780, q. v.
4 In the writing of David Humphreys. The letter was read in Congress on Decem-
ber 1 8 and referred to the Board of War.
470 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
them now through a different medium than you have ever
done before, because the embarrassment of every department
is now concentered or combined in the Commanding Officer;
exhibiting at one view a prospect of our complicated distresses.
Your friends., and the great public, expect every thing from
your abilities that the means which may be put into your hands
are competent to; but both know full well the deranged situa-
tion of our Southern Affairs, and neither, I trust, are so unrea-
sonable as to expect impossibilities; I therefore think that you
have nothing to apprehend on the score of public dissatisfac-
tion, on the contrary, that you may gain, but cannot lose in
your military reputation.
I will put your letter under a cover to Mrs. Greene and re-
quest her to make use of the same channel of conveyance back.
I shall take much pleasure in forwarding the letters to and from
her, and think it the best medium of conveyance for safety. I
have the pleasure to inform you that I heard by Genl. Varnum
(who went on to Congress yesterday) that Mrs. Greene and
your family were well when he left Rhode Island. Genl. Mc-
Dougall talks of setting out for Congress the beginning of next
week, but if he reaches Phila. by the opening of next Campaign
it will be as much as I expect from his dispatch.
We reached our Winter Qrs. about the beginning of this
Month, and I have been driven, by necessity, to discharge the
Levies. Want of cloathing rendered them unfit for duty, and
want of Flour would have disbanded the whole army if I had
not adopted this expedient for the relief of the Soldier for
the War.
Without knowing that Colo. Hamilton ever had an Eye to
the Office of Adjt. General,5 I did, upon the application of
"Greene's letter to Washington (Nov. 19, 1780), in the Washington Papers, stated
that he was "persuaded the appointment [of Hamilton] will be received with great
gratitude, as I am confident it is his wish, by what he said to me before I left Camp."
1780] THE ADJUTANT GENERALCY 471
Colo. Scammell to resign it, recommend Genl. Hand for rea-
sons which may occur to you; one of them (and not the small-
est) was to guard (by having an Officer of Rank appointed)
against the discontents which would have arisen in the In-
spectorate department, if a Junr. Officer to the present Sub-
Inspectors had been appointed, for you know, that, by the
present establishment of the Inspection the Adjt. Genl. for
the time being, is the Second Officer in that line. It would have
been disagreeable therefore to the present Sub-Inspectors some
of whom are full Colonels to have had a Lt. Colo, put over
them. With much sincerity etc.
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM PHILLIPS
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 13, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, your favr. of the 8th. proposing the final
exchange of Governor Hamilton, or an extention of his parole
to Europe. That Gentleman being considered as a prisoner to
the state of Virginia and therefore solely at the disposal of the
Executive Authority thereof, I do not conceive myself at liberty
to enter into any negotiation upon the subject. You will oblige
me by informing Governor Hamilton of this, he having writ-
ten to me on the same Business. Major Hay is also considered
as a prisoner to the state of Virginia, and at their disposal also.
I have the honor etc.6
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 13, 1780.
Sir: I have to inform your Excellency that I have received
an account from New York that another embarkation was
3 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
472 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec
preparing at that place. The detachment which appears to be
about 2500 Men was to be commanded by Generals Knyphausen
and Phillips ; the destination was not publickly known, but gen-
erally supposed to be to the southward. This information does
not come to me through a Channel on which I perfectly de-
pend; should I receive it through one in which I have more
confidence I shall not fail to communicate my intelligence to
your Excellency. I have the honor etc.7
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, New Windsor,
Thursday, December 14, 1780.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the
following Resolutions :
In Congress, November 28, 1780.
Some doubts having arisen in the minds of the general officers whether
the resolution of the 21st of October last, granting half pay for life to the
officers who shall remain in service to the end of the war was meant to
extend to them:
Resolved, That the said half pay for life be extended to all major-
generals and brigadiers general who shall continue in service to the end
of the war and that the resolution of the 21 October last was so meant
and intended.
In Congress, November 29, 1780.
Resolved, That the act of Congress of the 8th of January last, provid-
ing for the payment of officers' horses killed in action, be extended to
such officers entitled to keep them, who shall have their horses wounded
and disabled in action; provided the horses so wounded and disabled be
delivered to the department of the quartermaster general.
In Congress, December 6, 1780.
The Committee to whom was referred the letter of 28 November, from
General Washington, brought in a report; Whereupon, Congress came
to the following resolution:
7 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] FORT ST. GEORGE EXPLOIT 473
While Congress are sensible of the patriotism, courage, and persever-
ance of the officers and privates of their regular forces as well as of the
militia throughout these United States, and of the military conduct of
the principal commanders in both it gives them pleasure to be so fre-
quently called upon to confer marks of distinction and applause for en-
terprizes which do honor to the profession of arms, and claim a high rank
among military atchievements: in this light they view the enterprize
against fort St. George, on Long Island, planned and conducted with
wisdom and great gallantry by Major Talmadge, of the light dragoons,
and executed with intrepidity and complete success by the officers and
soldiers of his detachment.
Ordered, therefore, That Major Talmadge's report to the Commander
in Chief be published with the preceding minute, as a tribute to distin-
guished merit and in testimony of the sense Congress entertain of this
brilliant service.
*To MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE
New Windsor, December 14, 1780.
My dear Marqs : Soon after dispatching my last letter to you,
your favor dated at Paramus was put into my hands by Colo.
Gouvion. Yesterday brought me your letters of the 4th. 5th.
and 5th. in the Evening, and this day I have received another
of the 9th.8
The Chevr. De la Luzerne's Dispatches came in time for the
Post, which is the only means left me for conveyance of letters,
there not being as much money in the hands of the Q M. Genl;
I believe I might go further and say in those of the whole
Army, as would bear the expence of an Express to Rhode
Island. I could not get one the other day to ride as far as
Pompton!
I am now writing to the Count de Rochambeau and Chevr.
de Ternay on the Subject of your several letters; when their
8 None of these letters are now found in the Washington Papers.
474 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
answer arrives, I will communicate the contents to you. You
must be convinced, from what passed at the interview at H ,
that my command of the F T ps at R Is d
stands upon a very limited scale, and that it would be im-
politicly fruitless in me, to propose any measure of co-operation
to a third power without their concurrence; consequently an
application from you, antecedent to an official proposition
from his Excellency the Minister of France; The Gentn. at the
head of the French Armament at Rhode Island; The Con-
gress, or myself, cou'd only be considered as coming from a
private Gentn; It is therefore my advice to you, to postpone
your corrispondence with the Spanish Genels. and let your
influence come in hereafter as auxiliary to something more
formal and official. I do not hesitate in giving it clearly as
my opinion, to you, but this opinion, and this business, should
be concealed behind a curtain, that the favourable moment of
the Spanish Operations in the Floridas ought to be improved
to the utmost extent of our means ; provided the Spaniards, by a
junction of their Maratime force with that of his Christn.
Majesty undr. the Commd. of the Chevalr. de Ternay will give
us a secure convoy, and engage not to leave us till the opera-
tions of the Campaign are at an end or it can be done by con-
sent of parties.
I am very thankful to the Minister for permitting, and to
you for communicating to Genl. Greene the intelligence of the
Spanish movements towards the Florida's; it may have a happy
influence on his measures. It may be equally advantageous to
the Spaniard.
Your expressions of personal attachment to me, and affec-
tion, are flattering and pleasing and fill me with gratitude. It
is unnecessary I trust, on my part to give assurances of mutual
regard, because I hope you are convinced of it and as I have
1780] DISAPPOINTMENTS 475
already put it absolutely in your choice to go to the Southern
Army or stay with this circumstans. and Inclination alone
must govern you. It would add to my pleasure if I could
encourage your hope of Colo. Nevilles9 exchange. I refused
to interest myself in the exchange of my own Aid.10 Gen. Lin-
coln's were exchanged with himself, and upon that occasion
(for I know of no other) Congress passed a Resolve prohibit-
ing exchanges out of the order of captivity.
Under one general head I shall express my concern for yr.
disappointment of Letters; our disappointment of Cloaths,
disappt. in the mode of raising men, &ca. &ca. but shall con-
gratulate you on the late change in the Administration of
France as it seems to be consonant to your wishes and preg-
nant of hope. I am much pleased at the friendly disposition
of Portugal; much good I hope, will result from the combina-
tion of the maritime powers.
I am in very confined Quarters; little better than those of
Valley Forge, but such as they are I shall welcome into them
your friends on their return to Rhode Island. I am &c.
To COLONEL JAMES LIVINGSTON
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 14, 1780.
Sir : You will be pleased to make and transmit to Head Quar-
ters immediately, a Return of Your Regt.11 specifying the States
to which the Non Commissd. Officers and Privates respectively
belong. And also the Number of Foreigners, who are not reck-
oned as the quota of any particular State. I am &c.12
Lieut. Col. Presley Neville. He was aide to Lafayette and was exchanged in May,
1781.
10 Peregrine Fitzhugh.
"The First Canadian Regiment.
12 The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys. The same letter was sent to the
commanding officer of Spencer's Additional Continental regiment.
476 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
To FRANCISCO RENDON
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 14, 1780.
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that I have just received
intelligence from New York, that another embarkation was
preparing at that place; the Corps of which it is said to consist,
will amount to about 2500 Men; It is also reported, this Detach-
ment is to be under the Orders of the Generals Knyphausen
and Phillips; and supposed to be destined to the Southward.
Altho this information is not through such a channel, as to
demand entire credit, I thought it expedient for you to be ap-
prised of it; when the matter is more fully ascertained I shall
not fail to give you such farther particulars as may be necessary
to subserve the interest of his Most Catholic Majesty. I have the
honor etc.
P. S. I was duly honoured with yors of the 28th. Novr.13
*To CHEVALIER DE LA LUZERNE
Hd. Qrs. New Windsor, December 14, 1780.
Sir: Yesterday brought me the honor of your Excellency's
favor without date; but which I suppose to have been written
on the 5th. Instt, as it accompanied a letter from the Marqs. de
la Fayette of that date.
Receive my good Sir, the expression of gratitude which is
due to your Excellency, for the important intelligence you have
communicated relative to the designs of the Court of Spain
upon the Florida's. I have transmitted the acct. of these inter-
esting events to the Count de Rochambeau and Chevr. de
13The draft is in the writing of David Humphreys.
Rendon's letter of Nov. 28, 1780, in the Washington Papers, informed of a pro-
jected Spanish expedition against Pensacola.
1780] EXPRESSES DISCONTINUED 477
Ternay, with propositions which if acceded to, I shall do myself
the honor of communicating to your Excellency.
It would have been fortunate for the Army, if your Excel-
lency's feelings for its want of Cloathing could have been re-
lieved by the agreeable tydings of the arrival of that article,
but alas ! we are so accustomed to want, that we dare not flatter
ourselves with relief.
Your Excellency's dispatches for Rhode Island, accompany-
ing your letter to me, came to hand at the Instant the Post was
setting out, and was committed to his care. It is the only means
of conveyance now left me, since the chain of Expresses which
was formed by the Dragoon Horses (and worn down) have
been discontinued. The Quarter Master General has it not in
his power, for want of money, to furnish an Express upon the
most urgent occasion.
I anticipate with much pleasure the visit I shall receive from
the Chevr. de Chatteleaux, and the other Gentleman of the
French army, on their return to Rhode Island, and beg the fa-
vor of your Excellency to present my Compliments to them
and Monsr. Marbois. With great respect etc.14
To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 15, 1780.
Sir: I have been honored with your Excellency's favor of the
6th and two of the 9th. Inst. The manner in which Congress
have been pleased to express their approbation of the Conduct
of Major Tallmadge, and the Officers and Soldiers under his
command, cannot but be very flattering to them, and will I am
certain have a happy effect in encouraging the spirit of enter-
prise in the Army.
14 From a photostat of the original in the Paris Archives, Aff. Etrang., Metns. ct
Docs., E. U„ vol. 6.
478 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
A Paragraph in the enclosed New York Paper confirms
that part of the Letter of the 17th of October from Europe,
which Your Excellency has been pleased to transmit to
me, which mentions the intention of the British Administra-
tion to send further reinforcements to America. This is a mat-
ter which cannot, in my opinion, be too soon communicated to
the several States, with a pressing solicitation to take measures
that will effectually fill up their Regiments in the course of the
winter. From what I can learn, some are putting the matter
upon the very precarious footing of voluntary inlistments, and
others are substituting fines where the men demanded are not
produced in the several districts. I am very much mistaken if
by the first mode, any considerable number of Men are to be
raised at this time of day, and, from the latitude given in the
last, money will, in many instances, be paid down to excuse
personal service. The last hope of the Enemy is built upon our
inability to raise a new Army, and they are probably preparing
to push us in our enfeebled state. The means of reestablishing
ourselves, with proper and spirited exertions, are within our
reach; and should they in the spring instead of only the rem-
nants of our veteran Regiments meet our Battalions filled with
Men whose services are permanent, they must either give up
their object, of choice, or with the assistance of our Allies, we
shall be in a condition to force them to it.
The accession of Holland and Portugal to the Northern
League of Neutrality will be undoubtedly very embarrassing
to Great Britain. But this, I think, may be relied upon, that the
more she is insulted and oppressed by the European Powers,
the more will she endeavour to revenge herself upon us. She
can make no impression upon them, and she will therefore
bend her whole force against us, in hopes of possessing herself
of such an extent of territory in America, as will enable her
1780] MAIL CAPTURED 479
to insist upon terms, should a negotiation take place, which
may be highly derogatory to the honor and interests of these
States.
I will take the liberty of mentioning the necessity of altering
the Route of the Post, from Philadelphia to the Eastward, more
especially, that part of the way from the North River to Hart-
ford. Two Mails have lately been taken on the lower road in
Connecticut, and as the Post must always be at stated places at
certain times, the Mail may be taken off weekly, by landing a
small party from Long Island. I am the more anxious to have
the change made, as I have scarcely any other mode of for-
warding my Dispatches: for such is the situation of the Quar-
ter Master General, that he can seldom furnish the Expresses
with the means of travelling. The Route I would propose, is,
from Philadelphia to Morris Town, Ringwood, New Wind-
sor, Fishkill, Litchfield, Hartford &c. This may perhaps occa-
sion rider to go to the sea port Towns in Connecticut, but this
will be better than risquing the most important public Dis-
patches upon that Route. I have the honor etc.15
*To MRS. NATHANAEL GREENE16
New Windsor, December 15, 1780.
Dr. Madam : I have the pleasure to inclose you a letter from
Genl. Greene which came under cover to me. I fear you will
find it of old date, as the one accompanying it was of Novr.
the 19th. since which I have not heard from him.
If you will entrust your letters to my care, they shall have
the same attention paid to them as my own, and forwarded
with equal dispatch to the Genl.
15 In the writing of David Humphreys.
"Formerly Catherine Littlefield, of Coventry, R. I.
480 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
Mrs. Washington who is just arrived at these my Qrs. joins
me in most cordial wishes for your every felicity; and regrets
the want of your Company; remember us to my name sake.17
Nat,18 1 suppose can handle a Musket. With every sentimt etc.
To COMTE DE ROCHAMBEAU AND
CHEVALIER DE TERNAY
New Windsor, December [15], 1780.
Gentlemen: [Two] days ago I did myself the honor to in-
form his Excellency the Count de Rochambeau that Sir Henry
Clinton was making another embarkation; this is since con-
firmed by other accounts, but I have reed none yet which fix
the particular Corps or numbers with certainty, tho' all agree,
that this detachment is intended as a reinforcement to Lord
Cornwallis; that it is to consist of about 2500 and that it is the
intention of the enemy to push their operations to the South-
ward, this Winter, in the most vigorous manner. Official in-
formation is likewise lately received that this is the resolution
of the British Cabinet and that for this purpose a powerful re-
inforcement is to be sent to America with all possible dispatch.
When it is considered how essential it is to the Independ-
ence of the United States and how important to the interest of
their Allies that the common enemy should be obliged to re-
linquish their conquests in South Carolina and Georgia, Your
Excellencies will, I am confident, agree in opinion with me
that no means ought to be left unessayed to endeavour to dis-
lodge them, in the course of this Winter and next Spring.
It is needless for me to enter into a detail of the situation of
our Affairs to the southward, your Excellencies must know
11 George Washington Greene.
18 Nathaniel Ray Greene.
1780] SPANISH EXPEDITION 481
that from the great loss of Men, Artillery and Stores in Charles
town and from the defeat of our Army near Campden, we can
only hope to reassemble such a force, and that chiefly of raw
troops, as will prevent the Enemy from extending their con-
quests over North Carolina. To attempt the reduction of
Charles town, supposing we had men sufficient for the pur-
pose, is a thing impracticable while the transportation of Ar-
tillery and all kinds of Stores proper for a Seige must be made
from hence by land.
I am informed by the Marquis de la Fayette, who is still at
Philadelphia, that a vessel had just arrived at that place from
L'Orient, which port she left the middle of October, but as he
makes no mention of the second division of land and sea
Forces expected in America to reinforce the Army and Navy
at present under your Excellencies respective Commands, I
am led to believe that, that much desired event is more remote
than, under present circumstances, is to be wished.
A piece of intelligence, which has been communicated to
me in confidence by His Excellency the Minister plenipoten-
tiary of France, has turned my attention towards a new ob-
ject, and brought into my mind the outlines of a plan,19 which,
if it can be acceded to by the parties necessary to its execution,
may be attended with the most solid and permanent advan-
tages. The communication of His Excellency the Minister is,
That the Court of Spain have in contemplation two Expedi-
tions against the British settlements in the Floridas : Pensacola
and St. Augustine. The first consisting of 4000 Men convoyed
by eight ships of War had sailed from the Havanna the 16th.
"The proposed plan was not approved by Comte de Rochambeau. On the day
Washington wrote the above letter, De Ternay died at Newport, R. I., and Chevalier
Destouches, who succeeded him in the command of the French squadron, added a
memorandum to Rochambeau's answer to Washington (in the Washington Papers,
Dec. 22, 1780), giving his reasons against the plan.
482 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
October; the force destined against the last was twelve ships
of the line besides Frigates and Bomb Ketches and ten thou-
sand Men. These were to leave the Havanna [some time in]
the present Month.
The plan, with which I am impressed, and which I would
submit to your Excellencies considerations is, the propriety of
attempting to combine our Force with that of Spain, for the
purpose of totally subduing the common enemy not only in
the Floridas but in the States of South Carolina and Georgia.
It is not for me, at this moment, to enter upon a detail of the
Business. My general Ideas are, that a proposition or request
should be made to the General and Admiral of the Spanish
Forces (and through them to the Governor of the Havanna,
if they are not themselves at liberty to accede to the proposal,)
to co-operate with us [conjunctively or by diversion] for the
purposes I have mentioned. In case they do accede: Their
ships of War are to be sent, as soon as they have made good the
debarkation of their troops at St. Augustine or at any other
given point to form a junction with the Squadron of his Most
Christian Majesty at Rhode Island and take under their con-
voy the French and American Troops, destined for the expedi-
tion against Charles town, the first of which will be embarked
at New port the last at Philada. I should make such drafts
from this Army as would amount to two thousand Men at
least. His Excellency the Count de Rochambeau would I
should hope be able to detach double that number and leave
a sufficiency, with the Militia who might be called in upon the
occasion, to give security to your Works Hospitals and spare
stores, should you choose to leave the two last behind you.
These Corps and the troops which will be collected under the
command of General Greene, in conjunction with the force
which may be furnished by the Spaniards [in the manner
aforementioned] will form an Army not to be resisted by any
1780] SPANISH COOPERATION 483
which the British can draw together in that Quarter and capa-
ble of effecting the utmost wishes of the allied powers.
It is unnecessary for me to remark that the Basis of my plan
and propositions is, that the combined Fleets shall be decid-
edly superior to that of the enemy and that they shall co-oper-
ate to the completion of the enterprise or untill it shall be
abandoned by general consent. To insure so essential a point
as that of a naval superiority, the propriety of a further requi-
sition to the Admiral commanding His most Christian Majes-
ty's Fleet in the West Indies is submitted to your Excellencies
judgments.
I persuade myself that your Excellencies will view these
propositions with an eye to all their consequences and can-
didly approve or reject them as they appear to you practicable
or proper. In making them I am solely influenced by motives
of general good, and would not wish them carried into execu-
tion, unless they shall be deemed as conducive to the interests
of the powers, who have generously stepped in to our relief,
as to those of the United States.
Should the plan happily meet your Excellencies approba-
tions, I have to request that the Chevr. de Ternay would be
good enough to dispatch a Frigate, if one can be spared, with
the substance of these propositions to the Generals of his Most
Catholic Majesty [Duplicate and triplicate of which I will en-
deavour to forward via Philadelphia]. If the communication
is to be made, no time is to be lost in doing it and procuring
an answer. I think I could, in a month from hearing of the
proposition being agreed to on the part of Spain, be ready to
embark at Philadelphia, if the State of the River Delaware will
admit of it.
I cannot conclude this letter without mentioning an argu-
ment which in my opinion ought to induce the Spaniard to
484 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
accept of those propositions. The force which the British will
be able to draw together in South Carolina and Georgia, will be
so superior to the American, that they may, without putting
matters to the risque, leave small Garrisons in Savannah and
Charlestown, and throw such a reinforcement into St. Augus-
tine, a very strong fortification as will in all probability defeat
the enterprise. Whereas, if they find that measures are pursu-
ing to divest them of those acquisitions, which I am convinced
they mean to make the Basis of a negociation, I think it more
than probable that they will abandon the Floridas to their fate,
and exert themselves to the utmost to retain the only apparent
compensation for their vast expenditure of Blood and treasure.
Besides this, the Spaniard ought to reflect, that while Britain
is in possession of Georgia and South Carolina, he must hold
the Floridas either by a very precarious tenure or by a very
expensive one.20
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, New Windsor,
Friday, December 15, 1780.
The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the
following Resolutions:
In Congress, December 4, 1780.
Resolved, That no officer of the line of the army of the United States,
without express authority from Congress for that purpose, make any
contract or bargain, or give any orders, for the purchase of articles for the
use of the troops in the departments of the cloathier general, quarter-
master general, or commissary general of purchases, except in cases of
necessity for provisions and forage for detachments or parties in places
where the same cannot be drawn from the public stores or magazines.
Resolved, That Mr. Simeon de Witt be appointed geographer to the
army in the room of Robert Erskine, deceased.
^The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] AN OFFICER'S ARREST 485
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, New Windsor,
Saturday, December 16, 1780.
Parole . Countersigns .
Major General Parsons is appointed to the command of the
Connecticut division.
Captain Joseph Walker 21 of the 9th. Connecticut Regiment
and Lieutenant Oliver Lawrence22 of Colonel Lamb's regi-
ment of Artillery are appointed his Aids.
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 16, 1780.
Dear Sir: In answer to your favor of yesterday, I have to
observe; that it appears to me there can be no propriety, in
arresting an Officer, in ordinary cases, a long time before he
can be brought to tryal; And that in the instance of Major
Reed,23 upon his being brought before the Court, they would
be the proper Judges, whether the Proceedings should be post-
poned, 'till further evidence was obtained. In the mean time,
I see no reason why he should be detained in more rigid con-
finement than is commonly practiced in cases of arrest.
With respect to Joshua Ferris, Notwithstanding there is no
doubt of the justice of the former sentence against him, it may
possibly be beset to suspend the matter, to inquire further into
his character, and let the sentence still hang over him.
1Oi Webb's Additional Continental regiment. He was major and aide to Major
General Parsons to July, 1782; transferred to the Third Connecticut Regiment in
January, 1781; served to June, 1783.
22Of the Second Continental Artillery. He was aide to Parsons to July, 1782, and
resigned in September, 1782.
23Maj. James Randolph Reid (Reed).
486 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
I have taken Measures to know what Boards can be spared
by the Quarter Master General, for the purposes you mention.
If any Deserters should come from the Enemy, you will be
pleased to order them to be sent to Head Quarters. I am etc.24
[MS.H.S.]
To COLONEL TIMOTHY PICKERING
Head Quarters, December 16, 1780.
Sir: If the Boats which were with the Army, have not yet
been brought on to Kings Ferry, His Excellency requests no
time may be lost in having it done, by impressing teams, or
other the most efficacious Means; And that they may be for-
warded to Murder's Creek immediately, to be laid up there,
together with such Boats as may be sent from West Point in
consequence of the General Order of the Inst.25 which he
requests may also be carried in execution without any delay,
lest the River should be frozen and the Boats finally lost.
Should there be any among the first mentioned Boats fit for
the service of Guard Boats, they are to be delivered to Captain
Welles' Order. And in the Mean time the General desires the
Bearer an Officer in Capt Welles' Detachmt, may have direction
to collect and take for that service such Public Whale Boats,
or other light Boats as may be above this place, in the River.
I have etc.26
To COLONEL ISRAEL SHREVE
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 16, 1780.
Sir: I have reed, yours of the 14th. We are obliged, on account
of the scarcity of Forage to send off all the Dragoons from the
24 In the writing of David Humphreys.
25 Left blank in the draft. The date is Dec. n, 1780.
^The draft is in the writing of and is signed "D. Humphrys." Humphreys occa-
sionally signed his name without the "e," but the proper spelling is "Humphreys."
1780] THE GERMAN REGIMENT 487
Army except a very small detachment to do orderly duty. If
any thing material happens, you must press a horse and send
a Man up.
As soon as the German Regt. have received their Cloathing,
the Men are to be sent, agreeable to the new regulation of the
Army, to the lines to which they respectively belong; you will
therefore, when they go off send a Captain and about 50 Men
to the Ground which they now occupy near Sufferans.
If any deserters from the British Army come out to your
posts, be pleased to send them up to Head Quarters. I am &c.2T
To LIEUTENANT COLONEL LUDOWICK WELTNER
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 16, 1780.
Sir: As soon as your Regiment have received their Cloathing
you will march all the non Commd. and private Men belong-
ing to the State of Pennsylvania, to the Winter Quarters of the
troops of that State near Morris Town and there deliver them
up to Brigadier General Wayne. You will march those belong-
ing to the State of Maryland on towards Frederick Town,
sending an Officer to Brig. Genl. Gist at Baltimore town to
inform him of this, that if he should prefer their going to Bal-
timore rather than Frederick, he may send you notice of it.
You will use your utmost endeavour to keep your men from
deserting before they are delivered up to the Lines to which
they respectively belong.
You will make me an exact return of the names and Ranks
of the Officers of your Regt. which is to be transmitted to the
Board of War, and upon which they will be intitled to draw
their half pay for life. I am &c.2T
'"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman. . ,-.
488 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
* To JOHN SULLIVAN
New Windsor, December 17, 1780.
Dear Sir: Your letter of the 9th. is safe at hand, and pro-
pounds a question respecting promotion which I candidly
acknowledge I am puzzled to answer, with satisfaction to
myself.
If in all cases, ours was one Army, or thirteen Armies allied
for the common defence, there would be no difficulty in solv-
ing your question ; but we are occasionally both, and I should
not be much out if I was to say that we are sometimes neither
but a compound of both.
If we were considered in every point of view as one Army,
lineal promotion, as well from as to the grade of Colonels,
would, undoubtedly, be the most equitable and satisfactory
mode of rising; and no possible objection could be made to it
by any State, or the Troops of a State. Or, if Congress, having
regard to the number of Troops which each State is to fur-
nish to the Confederated Army were to allow the number of
General Officer's which should be thought competent thereto;
there would be no difficulty here neither; because the promo-
tion would be lineal in each State; and though it might fall
hard upon the Colonels of Such States as only furnish one regi-
ment for Continental Service, it would be incidental to their
State quotas and must be submited to; as the annexation of
their Regiments to other State Troops, also must be, to form
Brigades.
But it is our having no fixed principle that / know of, and
sometimes acting upon one, and then the other of the cases
before mentioned (as it happens to suit an individual State, or
particular characters) that creates our difficulties and the dis-
contents that prevail.
1780] PROMOTION SYSTEM 489
It is well known, that in the early stages of this War I used
every means in my power to destroy all kind of State distinc-
tions, and laboured to have every part and parcel of the Army
considered as Continental; the steps which have led to a dif-
ferent sentimt, and to our present system of politic's, you are
not to be informed of. we must take things as they are.
And therefore, under the ideas that prevail and our general
practice; I am, though puzzled, more inclin'd to let all promo-
tions be lineal, in each State, to the rank of Brigadr. inclusive,
(where there is more than one Regiment) than to any other
mode; because it is more consonant to the expectation of the
Army than any other; and because under it, I believe a new
appointed Brigr. from the Southern Troops would at this day,
be disagreeable to an Eastern Brigade, and vice, versa. How far
State promotion's beyond the Rank of Brigadrs. are eligable or
not, is a matter on which much may be said, on both sides. On
the one hand, it may be urged, that the State which sends more
than a Brigade into the Field has as good a right to accompany
them with a Majr. Genl. as the midling State has to furnish a
Brigr., or the smallest a Colo., because neither has more than
its due proportion of Officers. On the other hand, it may be
observed, that as Officers advance in rank, and acquire that
general knowledge which is necessary to qualify them for ex-
tensive command, their feelings are more hurt, and the Service
more injured by placing juniors over them, than when it hap-
pens to inferiors, though the same principle which bars the
rise of a Colo, where there is but one regiment, will apply to
a Brigadr. where the State only furnishes a Brigade. At prest.
we want no new Majr. Generals (having rather a Surplusage) ;
but may not the following expedient answer in future, at least
in a degree, the views of all namely to suffer the larger States to
have Major Genls. of their own line, proportioned to the
490 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
Number of their Troops; and the other Majr. Genls. to be pro-
moted from Brigadiers according to Seniority. This, at the same
time that it yields compliance to the views of the large States,
does not preclude the Brigadiers of the smaller from promotion,
as there must be Major Generals for seperate Comds, for the
Wings of the Army, &ca. wch. cannot be supplied by the State
quota's of Troops where there is not more than a just propor-
tion of Officers to Men.
Our present mode of promotion is Regimentally to Capts,
inclusively; and in the Line of the State afterwards; but I am
convinced, as well from the reason and justice of the thing, as
from several conversations I have held with some of the most
judicious Officers of the Army that it would be more agreeable
to it, that all promotion should be lineal, instead of Regimen-
tal, in every State line; for which reasons I shall recomd. the
measure to Congrs; to take place with the New Establishmt.
of the Army.
What I have here said with respect to promotion, is general;
but there is a case before me, in the Jersey line, which makes
me wish that Congress would fix their principle. This State
has three Regiments which are to be reduced to two. Dayton
is the Senr. Colonel, and among the oldest of that rank in the
whole Army; a valuable Officer, and does not want to leave
the Service. Shreve is the next oldest Colo, in Jersey and will
not go out; his character you are as well acquainted with as
I am. Ogden is the Youngest, and extremely desirous of stay-
ing, but cannot continue if Colo. Dayton remains in Service, in
his present rank; the matter therefore (as it is related to me) is
brought to this Issue, that Dayton or Ogden is to go out, unless
the former can be promoted; which would remove every diffi-
culty, and be agreeable to the prest. System of State policy, as
there is no Genl. Officer in that line; but if the promotion is
1780] OFFICER APPOINTMENTS 491
delayed till after the first of Jany. or in other words till after
Dayton or Ogden is deranged, the remedy will come too late,
because we shall have sent out a valuable Officer upon half pay,
and will, if Dayton is the person that goes, have a person to
promote who, but here I drop the curtain. It may suffice to say,
that if the State of New Jersey is to be allowed a Brigr., it ought
to be granted them before the first of January, for more reasons
than that of oeconomy.
That you may have some data to judge of the propriety of
New appointments, I shall take the liberty of observing, that
the States from New Hampshire to Pensylvania inclusively,
with Hazens Regimt, make by the last requisition 29 Battalions
of Infantry. That three of these Batts. according to the present
establishmt. of the Army, will make as large a Brigade as four
of the old, and that, the number of Brigadiers in the States here
mention'd, amount, at this time, to no more than Eight viz:
Starke of N. Hampshire; Glover and Patterson if Massachu-
setts; Huntington of Connecticut; Clinton of New York, and
Wayne, Hand, and Irvine of Pensylva.; and these may be re-
duced to Seven, if Hand should be placed in the Staff.
I am most firmly of opinion, that after the States have
brought their Troops into the Field, the less they have to do
with them, or their supplies of Cloathing &ca. &ca. the bettr.
it will be for the commn. Interest, for reasons which mani-
fest themselves more and more every day, and for the clearest
evidence of public oeconomy. I am etc.
To COLONEL ELISHA SHELDON
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 17, 1780.
Sir: I have your favr. of the 13th. accompanied by one from
Governor Trumbull respecting the Cantonment of your Regt.
As it is the request of the State and as you seem to think you
492 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
will be benefitted by the exchange, I have consented to your
taking your Quarters in Massachusetts in the towns which you
have pointed out.28 But I could not help remarking to the Gov-
ernor, that this repeated interference of the Civil authority in
directing the Cantonments of the Army is a thing very un-
precedented, and what may, if generally practised and sub-
mitted to, throw the whole into such positions as would render
them useless to the security of the Country, and unable to af-
ford succour to each other. When you have fixed your own
quarters, let me know where they are, that I may know how to
direct to you.
In my letter of the 8th. instant, which had not reached you,
the Chain of Dragoons was ordered to be broken up.
You will communicate the inclosed General Orders to Ma-
jor Tallmadge, and the Officers and Men of your Regt. who
under his command at the surprise of Fort George. I am &c.29
To EZEKIEL CHEEVER
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 17, 1780.
Sir: I have received your favor of the 2d. Inst, you will take
the first opportunity of having Mr. Collins30 brought to Spring-
field, where I will direct a Court Martial to try him under a
28 Sheldon had put his regiment in motion, as ordered, to winter quarters at Colches-
ter, Conn. At Danbury he rode forward to Harvard and
. . . "found that there was no Forage provided for the Public at Colchester, and
that even some of the public Stables had been removed to Lebanon for the Accpmmo-
dation of the French Horse at that place. These Circumstances, added to a Resolve of
the Legislature of the State to Quarter my Regt. in different Towns, has induced me
to halt ... at Waterbury . . . 'till your Excellency's further pleasure can be known.
I am well convinced that the Troops cannot be well Accommodated in the Towns
which have been pointed out by the Assembly for which reason I have recommended
to them the Towns of N. Hampton Hatfield and Hadley in the state of Massachusetts,
lying on Connecticut River about 1 8 miles above Springfield." — Sheldon to Washing-
ton, Dec. 13, 1780. Sheldon's letter is in the Washington Papers.
29The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
^John Collins. He was Deputy Commissary of Military Stores.
1780J WINTER CANTONMENTS 493
Resolve of Congress of the 22a1. Augt. 1780 passed expressly
for the punishment of those who commit frauds in the depart-
ment of the Quarter Masters, Commissary, or Commy of Mili-
tary Stores. You will let me know when Mr. Collins arrives at
Springfield; and also what Rank or employ he holds in the
service. I am &c.31
To GOVERNOR JONATHAN TRUMBULL
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 17, 1780.
Sir : I submitted to the interference of the State of Connecti-
cut last Year with respect to the Cantonment of the Horse,
without any animadversion or remark, because I was hopeful
that the impropriety of it would appear to them, and prevent
the like in future. I shall, (as it is the request of the State, and
because it is my wish to harmonize, as much as possible, with
the Civil Authority, in the prosecution of a cause, in which we
are all equally interested) send Sheldon's Regiment, this Win-
ter to the State of Massachusetts, but I cannot help remonstrat-
ing very pointedly against a repetition of the practice in future,
for the following reasons.
Four things have always influenced me in the distribution
of the Troops to their Winter Cantonments. Security of our
Capital Posts, which makes it necessary that they should have
such a relative situation to each other as to afford the necessary
succour. Cover to the Country. Their own convenience. And
the convenience of the Inhabitants; where the two last, were
not incompatable with the two first.
It is unnecessary, I am persuaded, for me to remark, that
if any one State can, or will undertake to point out a Can-
tonment for one part of the Army, another may with equal
31 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
494 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
propriety, do it for another part, and that upon the same prin-
ciple, and by the same parity of reasoning, that Connecticut
undertakes to advise or direct Sheldon's Horse to Massachu-
setts; Massachusetts may Order them to New Hampshire, and
New Hampshire to some other State. In a word, it is striking
at the most essential priviledge of the Commander in Chief,
and is pregnant with every Mischeif that can be conceived. I
have the honor etc.32
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, New Windsor,
Monday, December 18, 1780.
Parole . Countersigns .
Duty Returns by Brigades to be transmitted to the Orderly
Office, next Wednesday, by twelve o'clock. The Inspectors of
Divisions and Brigades will be very particular in digesting
the places where and kind of duties their Troops are upon
also the number at each place. They will likewise at the
same time transmit abstracts of the number fit for action.
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, New Windsor,
Tuesday, December 19, 1780.
Parole . Countersigns .
A critical and accurate inspection of the arms ammunition
and accoutrements to be made as soon as possible and returns
to be sent to the Assistant Inspector General agreeably to the
Form herewith delivered, by the 27th. instant. These Returns
to be made out regimentally and signed by the commanding
officers of regiments which are to be digested regimentally
32 In the writing of David Humphreys. From the original in the Connecticut State
Library. By a clerical error this letter is addressed to Gov. George Clinton,
1780]
PROVISION SCARCITY 495
into division returns and signed by the Division Inspectors.
The Returns of the brigades in seperate stations to be signed
by their respective brigade inspectors. It is to be distinctly
specified where and how any arms Scca. may have been lost, at
the bottom of the returns.
To GOVERNOR JONATHAN TRUMBULL
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 19, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have this morning received Your Excellency's
favor of the 15th: I have likewise had information from
New York, that the enemy were preparing to make a move
of some kind, but all my intelligences suppose that it will be a
further detachment to the southward. Indeed, the situation
of their affairs in that quarter seem to require a reinforcement.
Should they however turn their views towards the Western
parts of your State, I shall throw in as much Continental force
as can be spared, consistent with the safety of these posts, to
aid the Militia.
The scarcity of provision, [ (especially of Flour of which we
were sometimes without and frequently upon half and quar-
ter allowance)] and the miserable condition which most of
the Levies were in for want of Cloathing, have obliged me
already to discharge the [greatest]33 part of them, and your
Excellency must know that the terms of service of the whole
will expire the last of this month. We shall then be reduced
to the bare Garrison of West point and its dependencies, and
the number of Men requisite to cover our communication,
from the Southward, thro' Jersey. Thus Your Excellency must
perceive, that should the Enemy move out while this River
continues open, it will be in my power to afford but [very
33In the letter sent this word is "greater."
496 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
little] assistance, without putting these valuable posts to a most
imminent Risque.
The principal inducement with me in wishing to have Shel-
dons Regiment cantonned in the neighbourhood of Colchester
was, that they might be at hand, should such an event, as you
now apprehend, take place. Should I hear that the enemy
have embarked, I shall communicate the intelligence to Your
Excellency, that you may as soon as possible get rid of the in-
convenience and expence of the Militia. I have the honor etc.34
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 19, 1780.
Dr. Sir: We have an Armoury at Albany at which all the
Arms in this quarter have been constantly repaired to a very
large amount, several of the Workmen are Citizens and as
they are liable to be called out into the Militia service, they
are every now and then taken off and the public Work thereby
impeded. As they are so usefully employed, I would request
your Excellency, if it can be done consistently, to grant those
who are with Mr. Shephard35 the principal Armourer an ex-
emption from Military duty while in his service. I have the
honor etc.36
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 19, 1780.
Dear Sir: I am favored with Yours of the 17th. and 18th.
Inst. I am not sufficiently informed of the mode of transfer-
rin the writing of Tench Tilghman. From the original in the Connecticut State
Library. The words in brackets in the draft, which is also by Tilghman, are in the
writing of Washington.
^William Shepherd (Shephard). He was manager of the Continental Armory at
Albany, N. Y.
3aThe draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] BOARDS WANTED 497
ring to the Corps of Invalids to give a definitive Answer; but
as Mr. Frye37 is represented as a good Officer, I have no objec-
tion to his having leave of absence for the recovery of his
health.
If the Levies who remain, are well cloathed, and capable
of duty, it may be well to retain them while the River continues
open and their services useful; otherwise to discharge them
in the same manner as heretofore.
When the Officer with the Boats arrives at Murderer's Creek,
he may report to the Quarter Master General, who will give
directions for their being laid up.
I think it reasonable that the two recovered Prisoners38 you
mention, should be exchanged for those proposed, which may
accordingly be done.
The Quarter Master General will send some Boards imme-
diately, to finish the place for the reception of the Meat which
is to be salted in bulk : and I have to request that very particu-
lar attention may be paid to the matter; lest the Meat should
be damaged or totally spoiled by the uncommon warmth of
the season.
I should also be obliged to you, if you will procure from
Major Darby, or some other person acquainted with the con-
struction of Boats, a written Description of such Flat-bottomed
Boats as are most convenient to be transported on Carriages ;
it should be so intelligible as to be perfectly understood by
Boat Builders, as it is designed for a Model to construct a
number upon, in Virginia; And will be forwarded to Gov-
ernor Jefferson at his particular request. [In the construction,
two things are to govern; convenience of the Men, and the
transportation of the Boats on Wheels. Major Darby, (under
37 Lieut. Nathaniel Frye, of the Ninth Massachusetts Regiment. He was transferred
to the Eighth Massachusetts Regiment in January, 1781, and retired in January, 1783.
38 Not named in Heath's letter.
498 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
whose care the Boats were at Passaic) had an oppertunity to
form his judgment on both these points and recommended a
particular kind.] Iam&c.39 [ms.h.s.]
To CAPTAIN JOHN BUCHANAN40
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 19, 1780.
Sir: I have received your Memorial of the 15th. As I think it
reasonable that you should have a proper compensation for
your services, I shall give the Quarter Master General direc-
tions to make you a suitable compensation, if you made no par-
ticular agreement with General Mcdougall, who first appointed
you or with the late Qr. Mr. General.
There is very little Cloathing at present in the Store, but if
you will apply, I will give you an order to procure such as there
is. Iam&c.41
To BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES CLINTON
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 19, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have reed. Yours of the 5th. I hope by this time
matters of supply are in better train in your quarter, and that
they will continue with some regularity thro' the Winter. A
comfortable supply of Cloathing will be sent up to the Line in
a few days. Weisenfeld's Regt. drew their full proportion
before they marched.
Upon a representation made to me by Mr. Shephard the
Armourer at Albany, I have applyed to the Governor for an
exemption from Military, duty, for those Citizens who are
39 In the writing of David Humphreys. The portion in brackets in the draft, which
is also by Humphreys, is in the writing of Washington. The text above follows Wash-
ington's spelling and punctuation.
""Assistant Deputy Quartermaster.
"The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
1780] REPAIR OF ARMS 499
employed in the Works, and I do not doubt but he will grant it,
if it can be done with propriety. Mr. Shephard mentions that the
Works want many42 repairs to render them convenient to carry
on the business during the Winter. You will be pleased to di-
rect the Quarter Master to give him every assistance in his
power: and I shall be obliged to you, for paying your attention
to a Matter of so much consequence as having the damaged
Arms repaired. You will also enquire every now and then into
the State of Provision at Fort Schuyler, and take every oppor-
tunity of keeping the supply two or three Months at least
beforehand. Iam&c.43 [m.l.]
To THE BOARD OF WAR
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 19, 1780.
Gentlemen: Inclosed you have Captn. Von Heers return of
the Men, Horses, Accoutrements &c. in his troop. He will wait
upon the Board himself and explain the Return, which is not
very intelligible in its present form. I have directed Colo. Moy-
lan to make his return immediately to you. Colo. Sheldons has
not yet come to hand. I have your favr. of the 9th. The pass-
port for the Flag Vessel had been forwarded previous to the
rect. of it. I have the honor etc.44
To GOVERNOR GEORGE CLINTON
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 19, 1780.
Sir: I do myself the honor of introducing to your Excellency
the Viscount de Noiaelles45 and the Count de Damas, who in-
tend to make a tour to the Northward on their return to the
2 The draft at this point has the word "necessary."
3 In the writing of David Humphreys.
'The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
0 Louis Marie, vicomte de Noailles.
500 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
Army at Newport. They are both Gentlemen of very particu-
lar Merit and of the first Rank in their Nation. I therefore
recommend them in the warmest manner to your Excellency's
attention. They are accompanied by the Chevalier du Plessis
of the French Artillery with whom you are probably ac-
quainted, as he served a considerable time in this Country with
great reputation. I recommend him likewise to Your Excel-
lencys Civilities. I have the honor etc.46
*To BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES CLINTON
Head Qrs. New Windsor, December 19, 1780.
Dear Sir: I have the pleasure of introducing to you the Chevr.
de Chattelleaux47 Majr. Genl. in the French Army, and the Vis-
count de Noailles and the Count Damas who are anxious to see
the Northern Frontier of New York, and may perhaps go as
far as lake George. As they are Gentlemen of the first rank in
France, I would wish every attention paid to them. You will
be pleased to offer them an escort if they incline to go beyond
Saratoga, and will recommend them to persons on whom they
may confide as guides, or for any assistance of which they may
stand in need. I am etc.48
GENERAL ORDERS
Head Quarters, New Windsor,
Wednesday, December 20, 1780.
Parole . Countersigns .
The court of enquiry whereof Colonel Hazen is President
will assemble next Wednesday the 27th. instant at West point
48 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.
47Chastellux.
48 The text is from a phostostat kindly furnished by Dr. A. S. Rosenbach, of New
York City.
1780] PAY OF OFFICERS 501
at the request of Lieutenant Colonel Antill to examine into his
conduct while with General Sullivan in his expedition to
Staten Island.
Application to be made immediately by those lines and reg-
iments which have made their cloathing returns for their first
dividend of cloathing.
In Congress, September 25, 1780.
Plan for conducting the Inspector's department.
Whereas the institution of this department hath been found of great
utility to the armies of these United States. . . . 49
In Congress, December 4, 1780.
Resolved, That, instead of the additional pay allowed to officers of the
inspector's department, by the resolution of Congress of the 25 Septem-
ber last, the following sums be allowed, viz.
To the adjutant general as assistant inspector, thirty five dollars per
month:
To an assistant inspector in a separate army, thirty dollars per month:
To a lieutenant colonel, as inspector of a division, twenty five dollars
per month:
To a major, as inspector of a brigade, twenty five dollars per month.
It may happen in some instances that a captain may be Ma-
jor of brigade, he will be entitled to the additional Pay as if a
Major.
*To THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS
New Windsor, December 20, 1780.
Sir : At a time when the Army is about to undergo a mate-
rial change; when Congress and the States individually, are
disposed to establish it upon the best principles for the equal
Administration of justice, and the preservation of the rights
of the Officers, I am perswaded it will not be deemed presump-
tuous in me to offer any opinion, which in my judgment, may
49The omission is a verbatim copy of the lengthy resolve of Congress of Sept. 25,
1780, which may be seen in the Journals of the Continental Congress for that date.
502 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
serve to promote either of these ends and render our Military
system as unexceptionable as possible. Upon this ground
therefore, I take the liberty of observing.
That promotion in our Army, according to the custom
which prevails at present, is regimental to the rank of Cap-
tain; thence in each State line to the grade of Colonel, both
Inclusive. I do not at this time recollect the inducements
which led to regimental promotion, but as it has been found
productive of many hard cases injurious to the feelings of Offi-
cers, I would propose that all promotion in the respective
State lines to the rank of Colonels inclusive should be lineal.
This may disappoint the hopes of a few Subalterns, who, per-
chance, stand high in the regiments they are newly arranged
to, but can do no injustice to any of them, and will remedy the
evils complained of; as every vacancy will then be filled by
the Senior Officer of the next grade where there is no interposi-
tion in favour of extra merit, or exclusion for want of it.
A regulation like this, is so consonant to the principles of
justice, and so agreeable to the wishes of the Army in general
(as far as I have been able to collect the sentiments of it) that
I think there can be no possible objection to the alteration pro-
posed. By resignations (chiefly), death, and other casualties,
we have instances, and not a few of them, of Serjeants even,
in one regiment coming to the command of Companies be-
fore Lieutenants in another; this, though submitted to, has
been the cause of much discontent, as it always hurts the feel-
ings of an Officer to obey those whom he has commanded.
The Artillery and Cavalry have heretofore been considered
in the same light as the line of a State, and rose accordingly;
that is regimentally to the rank of Captn. and in their respec-
tive lines afterwards, and this mode I presume must still be
continued,, or their rise made wholly regimental (as the
1780] PROMOTIONS 503
regiments are from different States) otherwise the Officers of
different States would very soon get blended together, wch. does
not seem to be the intention of Congress by their apportioning
of them to particular States, nor do I believe it to be the wish of
the Officers; but to avoid discontent, and the disputes which
will arise from clashing interests, it is indispensably necessary
to lay down some principle of promotion, declaring it to be
lineal, or regimental wholly, or partly, as is mentioned before.
It is more difficult, and may be more delicate for me to ex-
press a sentiment respecting the promotion of Colonels, and
General Officers; but as the good of the Service and the peace
of the Army require that some principle should be established,
by which these promotions should be governed, I have no
doubt of its being done. The custom of appointing the Senior
Colonels in each State line to be Brigadiers (where the num-
ber of Regiments are sufficient to form a Brigade, or more)
has obtained consistency, and gives general satisfaction; but
the appointment of Major Generals seems to be under no fixed
government; for it sometimes happens by seniority, at other
times by State, and has been a source of much discontent;
threatning the loss of very good Officers. I see but two ways by
which the promotion of Major Generals can take place upon
any fixed or satisfactory ground, and if there is not a known
rule for it, and irregular promotions happen, the Service I am
certain will be injured by it; because Officers of their rank will
not, nor cannot submit to a Junior, unless there is some estab-
lished principle to reconcile it to their feelings. The one is by
seniority wholly; the other by seniority and States jointly. As
thus : If Congress shall judge it consistent with justice and pol-
icy to allow Major Generals to the States which have more
Brigades than one in the field, let them rise in their own State
line by Seniority, as other Officers do, and as this will not
504 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
furnish a sufficient number for the Service (as there will be
wanting for seperate commands; for the Wings of the Army;
light Infantry &ca.) let the deficiency be taken from the Senior
Brigadiers of the whole line, to be suceeded by the oldest
Colonels of the State lines from whence they are taken. The
first mode gives, in all cases, the Senior Brigadiers for Major
Generals. The second, allows each State a compleat Corps of
Officers to its quota of Men, and entitles every Brigadier in the
line besides, to promotion, according to the date of his Com-
mission. Which of these modes, or whether either of them
will be adopted by Congress is submitted to their better judg-
ment; all I aim at, is to have some system established by wch.
we may harmonize; for there is nothing more certain than
that the promotion of junior Officers over the heads of Seniors,
unless it is agreeable to some known and established principle,
never fails to produce a great deal of discontent, ill blood, and
party, which are always injurious.
As I have gone so far into this subject, of promotion, there
is one point more I would beg leave to touch upon, and that is
with respect to the Colonels of the smallest States, whose quota
of Troops does not entitle them to a Brigadier, and who with-
out some relief are not only cut of from all hope of promotion,
the object of a Soldiers desire; but after years of faithful Service,
experience the frequent mortifications of seeing themselves
passed by; this must be exceedingly grating to a deserving Of-
ficer, and is a personal injury, because the State having but one
Regiment can have no claim to a Brigadier; for remedy how-
ever of the evil, and the sake of justice, I would, with all due
deference, suggest the propriety of promoting them, and others
in like circumstances, to the Rank of Brigadiers whenever
they shall become the Senior Colonels of the whole line, and
1780] LACK OF FLOUR 505
Brigadiers are wanting, which may often be the case for extra
Service, Command of the light Infantry &ca.
Congress will readily perceive that all these are expedients
to accommodate matters (in the best manner the nature of the
case will admit of) to the system of State Troops; for if we
were one Army instead of a confederated Army, lineal promo-
tion by the common course of succession, where merit or de-
merit did not interfere, would be the easiest, simplest, and
most equitable of any; but as this is not the case, and we are
considered as a federal body we have three interests to attend
to; viz. the common interest; State interest; and individual
interest. Whether any of the expedients I have proposed are
likely to answer the ends in view, is submitted with all possible
deference, and without further apology by. Your, etc.
PS. 26th. This letter has been unavoidably delayed for want
of a conveyance.50
To MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM HEATH
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 20, 1780.
Dear Sir: I am extremely unhappy that our want of Maga-
zines, and precarious mode of supply, subject us, to such re-
peated inconveniencies and distresses; but hope the flour from
Ringwood or Red hook will arrive soon, to give at least a tem-
porary relief. By the general Return of the Issues, I observe the
number of Rations to be much greater than I apprehended,
and that they do not diminish in the proportion, I expected,
from discharging the Levies: I wish you therefore to have
a critical examination made into this matter; that from a
wThe letter was read in Congress on Jan. i, 1781, and referred to John Sullivan,
James Mitchell Varnum, and Theodorick Bland. On February 1 Alexander McDougall
was added to the committee. The draft, which is in the writing of Washington, dates
the P. S. the 27th.
506 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
comparative view of the number of Men, and Rations, should
there be any abuses, they might be corrected.
The step you have taken, upon hearing that Delancy was
collecting his Corps, was certainly very proper. I have also re-
ceived a Letter from Govenor Trumbull, advising, that he is
informed the Enemy are meditating a blow against Connecti-
cut, and requesting in that case, such aid as we are able to
afford; which renders it still more necessary that the Troops
you have put under marching Orders, should be held in con-
stant readiness; and that the Officers on the Lines should be
directed to use the greatest vigilance, and communicate the
earliest intelligence to you.
You will please to give directions for Col Spencers and Col
James Livingston's Regts to apply for their proportion of
Cloathing.
There is a quantity of blue Strouds in the Store, which might
be made into Coats, if the trimmings could be obtained. Should
the State Clothiers of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, or Con-
necticut be able to furnish the necessary Materials the Cloth
may be issued. I am &c.51 [ms.h.s.]
To GOVERNOR JONATHAN TRUMBULL
Head Quarters, New Windsor, December 20, 1780.
Dear Sir: Inclosed are the Returns called for in your Excel-
lency's letter of the 27th: ulto. Colo. Sheldon is directed to
make that of his Regiment immediately to you. That, with
those now transmitted, will, I believe, include all the Men be-
longing to the State of Connecticut, who are serving in any
department of the Continental Army. I have the honor etc.52
51 In the writing o£ David Humphreys.
62 In the writing of Tench Tilghman. From the original in the Connecticut State
Library.
1780] SOUTHERN OPERATIONS 507
*To BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
Hd. Qrs., New Windsor, December 20, 1780.
Sir: A few days since, by the Chevr. De Chatteleaux, I had
the honor to receive your favor of the 19th. of March introduc-
tory of him, and thank you for bringing me acquainted with a
gentn. of his merit, knowledge, and agreeable manners. I spent
several days very happily with him, at our Camp near the great
Falls of Passaic in New Jerseys before the Army seperated for
its cantonments, the principle of which is at West point in the
vicinity of this place where I make my own Quarters.
Disappointed of the second division of French Troops; but
more especially in the expected Naval superiority which was
the pivet upon wch. every thing turned, we have been com-
pelled to spend an inactive Campaign after a flattering prospect
at the opening of it, and vigorous struggles to make it a decisive
one on our part. Latterly we have been obliged to become Spec-
tators of a succession of detachments from the Army at New
York, in aid of Lord Cornwallis; while our Naval weakness,
and the political dissolution of a large part of our Army, puts it
out of our power to counteract them at the Southward, or take
advantage of them here.
The movements of Lord Cornwallis during the last Month
or two have been retrogade; what turn the late reinforcements
which have been sent to him may give to his Affairs, remains
to be known. I have reinforc'd also, principally with Horse,
but the length of the March is so much opposed to the measure,
that evy. corps, in a greater or lesser degree, is ruined that
encounters it.
I am happy however in assurg. you, that a better disposition
never prevailed in the Legislatures of the several States than
does at this time. The folly of temporary expedients are seen
508 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON [Dec.
into and exploded, and vigorous efforts will be used to obtain
a permanent Army, and carry on the War systematically, if the
obstinacy of Great Britain should compel us to continue it. We
want nothing but the aid of a loan to enable us to put our Fi-
nance into a tolerable train. The Country does not want re-
sources, but we the means of drawing them forth.
It is unnecessary for me to go into a more detail acct. of our
affairs, as you are doubtless officially advised of every material
occurrence. I shall therefore only add my Compliments to
Mr. Adams, and the strongest assurances of being, With the
greatest esteem etc.
*To CHEVALIER DE LA LUZERNE
New Windsor, December 20, 1780.
Sir: I had the honor to receive your Excellency's favor of the
14th. by the Chevr. du Plessis. It is not in my power to deter-
mine whether it was the intent of Congress to extend the
allowance of half pay for life to those Gentn. who hold Brevet
Commissions in the American Army and at the sametime
retain their Ranks and are actually employed in that of their
own Country. Should it however be the sense of Congress,
that Foreign Officers who come under the above description,
are entitled to half pay at the expiration of the War. I shall
take a particular pleasure in securing that allowance to Colo-
nels Fleury and du Plessis not only on account of their singular
merit, but because your Excellency has been pleased to interest
yourself in their behalf. I have the honor etc.53
53 From a photostat of the original in the Paris Archives, Aff. Etrang., Mems. el
Docs., E. U., vol. 6.
INDEX
INDEX
By David M. Matteson
Abbatt, William, Crisis of the Revolution, 85/2.
Absence without leave, officer overstaying furlough, 319, 320; officer, 460.
See also Desertion.
Accounts, claims, and warrants, detached officers' expenses, 22; validity
of certificate for supplies, 51; staff department certificates, 54-56;
special quartermaster, 64; Hartford journey, 66 n; requirements for
pay, 249; secret service, 276; recruiting, 339; reduced regiment, 339;
resigning officer, 360; Convention troops, 376, 377, 443, 444, 448;
express, 445. See also Pay.
Accouterments. See Equipments.
Ackesley, Nathaniel, spy, 253.
Adam, John, letter to, 188; intercourse with the enemy, 188; letter for,
466.
Adamant, H. M. S., at New York, 347.
Adams, John, Washington's compliments, 508.
Adams, Samuel, committee on supplies, 106 n.
Adams, Dr. Samuel, surgeon, 218.
Addison, Rev. H., letter to, 422; pass, 422.
Additional and Nonstate Continental regiments, in state quotas, 53;
state benefits, 60, 61; reduced, returns, 254, 278, 280, 475 n. See also
Artificers; Artillery; Canadian regiments; Cavalry; German Bat-
talion; Jackson, Henry; Light corps; Provost; Rifle corps; Spencer,
Oliver; Warner, Seth; Webb, Samuel Blatchley.
Addresses, circulars to states, 204, 331, 450.
Adjutant general, deputy at West Point, 10; Scammell's resignation, suc-
cessor, Hamilton, rank, 419, 470.
Adjutants, appointments, 13, 31, 261, 283.
Agents, resident, for prisoners of war, agreement, 190, 190 n, 19172, 234-
236, 33°> 446.
Aides. See Military secretaries.
Alarm, guns, 187.
Albany, N. Y., command, 259, 296; winter post, 417, 419, 423, 447, 454;
specific supplies, 451 n; armory, 496, 498.
511
512 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Alcide, H. M. S., at New York, 347.
Alden, Capt. Judah, letters to, 310, 394, 396; British irregular flag of
truce, 310; post, 311; Staten Island ruse, 394, 396; service, 394 n.
Alden, Maj. Roger, flag service, 251; Huntington's aide, 251 n.
Alexander, Gen. William. See Stirling.
Alexander, Maj. William, officer of the day, 75, 217, 261, 320, 365.
Allen, Col. Ethan, seizure authorized, 304-306.
Alliance, U. S. S., arrival, news, supplies, 6, 21, 26, 29, 30.
American Philosophical Society, Washington's election, 348, 349.
American Revolution, false security and supineness, 117, 118, n8«, 122;
crisis, mismanagement and apprehension, 241, 242; British attitude,
478. See also Army; Commerce; Continental Congress; Finances;
Foreign relations; Frontier; Intercourse; Loyalists; Navy; Peace.
Ammunition, returns on condition 494. See also Arms.
Andre, Maj. John, Arnold affair, capture, captors, 85 n, 89, 91, 92, 93 n, 95,
133, 149; custody, treatment, 86, 89, 92, 97, 99 n, 12072, 13472; letter
to Washington, 8672; trial, execution, 101, 109-111, 130, 150, 151,
173; British correspondence and efforts for, 102-104, mn, 131,
134 n; papers on case, Proceedings, 131, 133, 13372; reward of captors,
378.
Angell, Col. Israel, officer of the day, 1 1 ; ill, 1 1 ; Springfield action, court
of inquiry, 32, 71; reorganization of Rhode Island regiments, 285.
Antill, Lieut. Col. Edward, court of inquiry, 501.
Apothecaries, appointments, 218.
Arbuthnot, Adm. Marriot, blockade of Newport, movements, 28, 322.
Ariel, U. S. S., overdue, 21.
Armand-Tuffin, Charles, marquis de la Rouerie, independent corps re-
tained, size, Pulaski's legion, 163, 278, 299, 300, 311; letters to, 299,
409; recruiting, 311; horses, equipments, 312; question of promo-
tion, 409, 410; officer, 41072.
Armed neutrality, hopes from, 122, 478.
Armorers, returns on unemployed, 64; and militia duty, 496, 498.
Arms, scarcity, inadequate importation, 21, 26, 29; to South, problem,
26, 29, 189, 321, 322; for Virginia levies, 30, 202; recovery from mili-
tia, 169, 260; partisan corps, 312; returns on supply, 358; waste,
carried off, 359; discharged men, 404, 407; repairs, 423; returns on
condition, 497. See also Ammunition; Armorers, Artillery; Mili-
tary stores.
Army. See British army; Continental army, French army; Militia.
INDEX 513
Arnold, Gen. Benedict, council of war on campaign possibilities, 9/2; let-
ters to, 10, 17, 47; British threat, 10; soldiers to thresh grain, 17;
Washington's journey to Hartford, 48; treason: measures to frus-
trate, 84-89, 92, 92 72, 94; flight, letter, 85, 8572, 87, 89, 92; Washing-
ton's statements and comments, 88, 89, 91-94, 97, 123, 149, 172, 173,
213, 267; aides, court of inquiry, 89, 225, 228, 229, 359, 442, 443;
papers to Andre, 93 72; Greene's general orders on, 95-97; parole and
countersigns on, 96; Sheldon, 131 n; resignation, letter, 1727*; at-
tempt to capture, 17872, 223; address to people, 189; removed from
army register, 218; and British invasion from Canada, 230; procla-
mation to army, 264; — command at West Point, 214, 370/2; court-
martial, Washington's self-vindication, 370. See also Andre, John;
Smith, Joshua Hett.
Arnold, Mrs. Benedict, husband's treason, 8572.
Arsac, Charles Henri d'. See Ternay.
Arsenals, Mason's dismissal, 231; Carlisle, 443, 445.
Artificers, road repairs, 140; officers court-martialed, 153, 154; position,
261; reorganized regiment, state assignment, 279, 280.
Artillery, at West Point, 127; officer court-martialed, 153; in rearrange-
ment of army, size of regiments, assignment to states, 164, 278-280,
339, 378; French siege guns, 172, 179; line of battle, 187; experi-
ments, 225, 227; fuses, 23122; for South, 243, 321; winter quarters,
337, 353, 354; South Carolina regiment 378; proposed attack on
Kings Bridge, 386, 387, 424-426; discharge of levies, 417; Carlisle
arsenal, 443, 445; rule of promotion, 502. See also Knox, Henry.
Artisans. See Artificers.
Ashley, Capt. Moses, brigade major, officer of the day, 22, 74, 168, 217,
257, 288, 333, 365, 401.
Assault, on officer by wagoner, 25.
Babcock, Henry, letter to, 309; financial plan, letter, 309, 31072.
Badlam, Lieut. Col. Ezra, officer of the day, 9, 101, 199, 358; at court-
martial, 33, 46, 258.
Baggage, in march, 73, 125; removal in case of attack, 274; winter quar-
ters, 343, 345, 346, 353, 354.
Bailey, Col. John, officer of the day, 65, 151, 391; service, 6572; at court-
martial, 185, 258, 265, 271, 319, 329, 334, 347, 359.
Bailey, Francis, publication, 131 72.
Bailie, James, ship officer, 449.
Baize, for blankets, 119.
Baker general. See L.udowic\, Christopher.
514 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Baldwin, , Henry Lee, 223 n.
Baldwin, Caleb, jr., Washington at house, 66 n.
Balfour, Lieut. Col. Nisbet, letter to, 147s.
Ball, Ma]. Lebbeus, officer of the day, 31; at court of inquiry, 49; detach-
ment, 63.
Ballard, Ma]. William Hudson, officer of the day, 74, 113, 222, 270, 333;
service, 333/2; letter to, 346/2; march to winter quarters, 346/2;
leave, 360.
Baltimore, specific supplies, 451/2, 465.
Bank, army supplies, obstacles, 17, 106//.
Banks, Lieut. Joseph, quartermaster, 278; service, 287/2.
Barbe-Marbois, Francois, marquis de, Washington's greeting, 477.
Barber, Lieut. Col. Francis, officer of the day, 81; letter to, 466; Gifford,
466.
Barnard, Grove, illegal discharge, 334.
Barnard, Capt. John, court-martial, 334; service, 334/2.
Barnes, , artificer, 154.
Barnes, Ma]. Thomas, court-martial, cashiered, 319, 320.
Barrett, Lieut. James, assaulted, 25; service, 25/2.
Bassett, Lieut. Col Barachiah, officer of the day, 82, 151, 261, 333, 396.
Battle, order of, 186.
Baxton, Lieut. James. See Buxton.
Bayard, William, and probable evacuation of New York, 104.
Bayley, Gen. Jacob, court-martial, 187.
Baylies, Ma]. Hodijah, exchange, 323; service, as aide, 323/2.
Beall, Capt. Thomas, court-martial, cashiered, 175, 179.
Bedkin, Capt. Henry, headquarters orderlies, 142; line of battle, 187;
position, 333; proposed attack on Kings Bridge, 392.
Beer, Dr. Francis Suza de. See Suza.
Bergen County, N. J., supplies, 120/2.
Berrien, George, court-martial, 271.
Berrien, James, court-martial, 271.
Betts, William M., letter to, 88; office, 88/2.
Biddle, Col. Clement, validity of certificates, 51, 54-56; letter to, 55; or-
der written by, 63/2.
Bills of exchange, for prisoners of war, 235.
Bingham, William, letter to, 119/2; gift to headquarters, 119/2.
Binney, Dr. Barnabas, surgeon, 218.
INDEX 515
Birch, Lieut. Col. Samuel, British intelligence, 355.
Blaine, Col. Ephraim, letters to, 12, 394; impressment of rum, 12; High-
lands magazines, 259; Hale case, 394, 411.
Bland, Theodorick, committees: on exchanges, 134//, 444 n; on Southern
campaign, 245 ra; on half-pay, 2940; on promotions, 504/2.
Blankets, need, baize, 119; lack of transportation, 147.
Blazing Star inn. See Old Blazing Star.
Blazing Star, supplies to Charleston prisoners, flag, 32.
Blockade, Newport, 6, 28, 39, 138, 147, 322; Brest, 6, 39.
Bloomfield, Dr. Moses, surgeon, 218.
Board of War, troops to South, 3, 4; letters to, 4, 52, 170, 232, 245, 256,
269, 291, 316, 436, 499; supplies to Charleston prisoners, flag vessel,
52, 356, 436; commissions, 171; Lee's equipments, 245; Joel case,
256; exchange of general officers, 269; exchanged officers, 291; dra-
goon equipments, 441, 444, 456, 499.
Boatmen, court-martial, 271.
Boats, bargemen, n, 48; collecting, 58; care on Hudson, 107; flat, for
Southern campaign, carriage, 321, 326, 447, 497; guard, on Hudson,
instructions, 351, 459, 467, 468, 486; proposed attack on Kings
Bridge, 351, 352, 362, 363, 379, 386-388, 394, 425, 427; securing, for
winter, 459, 486, 497.
Bogart, Michael( ?), prisoners of war agency, 446.
Bond, Thomas, purveyor, 218.
Boston, proposed wintering of French fleet, 80.
Boston Huts, N. Y., 430.
Bostwick, Andrew, headquarters account, 66 n.
Bounty, war enlistment, necessary increase, 165, 281, 300; land to re-
duced officers, 287, 290; recruiting officers, 300.
Bowdoin, Pres. James, letter to, 34; supplies from privateer prizes, 35.
Boyes, William, shipmaster, 449.
Bradley, Col. Philip Burr, officer of the day, 94, 261; letter to, 345; march
i86w.
Bradley, Col. Philip Burr, officer of the day, 94, 261; letter to, 345; March
to winter quarters, 345, 346.
Brasil, Richard, flag vessel, 449.
Bread. See Flour; Ovens.
Brest, France, blockade, measures for relief, 6, 39.
Brewster, Capt.-Lieut. Caleb, raid, 336.
Bridge, planks for Harlem River, 58.
Brigade majors and inspectors, acting, 13, 329, 334; appointments, 63.
516 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Brigadier generals, Nixon's resignation, 22; right to halt march, 66; Mor-
gan, 218; need, 491. See also General officers; brigades under state
names.
British army. See Campaign of 1780; Clinton, Sir Henry; Mercenaries;
regiments by number.
Brodhead, Col. Daniel, letter to, 175; court-martial held by, 175-177,
179; partisan operations, 176; on scarcity and unrest, 231.
Brooklyn, N. Y., information on works, 26.
Brooks, David, letter to, 300; clothing for frontier force, 300.
Brown, Capt. , British officer, on St. Clair and Arnold, 178 n.
Brown, Capt. William, at Fort Schuyler, relief, 197; service, 197 n.
Bruin, Ma}. Peter Bryan, detail, road repair, 367.
Buchanan, Capt. John, letter to, 498; pay, 498.
Buchner, Johan Jacob, flag vessel, 449.
Buell, Benjamin, bears letters, 423, 437, gun repairs, 423.
Bulls Iron Works, Conn., specific supplies, 451 n.
Burgoyne, Gen. John, exchange, 135, 136, 192, 315, 325.
Burke, John, special exchange, 54, 67, 366, 376, 449.
Burnet, Dr. William, surgeon, 218.
Burnham, Lieut. Samuel, adjutant, 283; service, 283 n.
Burt, Gov. William H., special exchange, 54, 67.
Burtis, William, loyalist, court-martial, 267.
Butler, Lieut. Edward, court-martial, 252; service, 252 ra.
Butler, Col. Richard, officer of the day, 23, 287, 365.
Butler, Lieut. Col. William, officer of the day, 46, 233, 302, 365; at court-
martial, 335.
Buxton, Lieut. James, rank, 170, 171; service, 170 n.
Byron, Adm. John, arrival (1778), 105.
Cadwalader, Gen. John, letter to, 121; Washington on relations, 121;
and line command, 123.
Camber, Ann Sarah, pass, 366, 376.
Camden, battle, news of defeat, 2, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16, 29, 41; measures to
offset, 2, 3, 20; loss of arms, 26, 29; lack of data on force, 290; effect,
40; lesson on militia, 49, 209; paroles and countersigns honoring
heroes, 83, 94; Washington's comment to Gates, 136, 137; British
report, 147; court of inquiry, 181, 189, 236-240, 244.
Camp color men, in march, 125.
INDEX 517
Campaign of 1780, council of war on possibilities (September), 5-9;
Hartford conference with French, 16, 17; prospects and failure, 121,
142, 150, 317, 327, 507; camp disposition in case of attack, 266, 267.
See also Frontier; Hudson River; New York City; Rochambeau;
Southern campaign.
Campaign of 1781, uncertainty of American force, 78. See also Recruiting.
Campbell, Col. Donald, rations, 252, 263.
Campbell, Maj. John, express, 144; office, 144 n.
Campbell, Lieut. Col. Richard, post, 202.
Canada, question of joint winter expedition against, 56, 81; invasion
from, 193, 195, 216, 230, 232, 295, 303-306, 312, 322, 353.
Canadian expedition, cause of failure, 207; hostages, 375.
Canadian regiments, officers, 276 n, 291 n, 360 n. See also Hazen, Moses;
Livingston, James.
Canadians, refugees, rations, distress, 275, 276; prisoners of war, 310.
Carlisle, Capt. John, letter to, 60.
Carlisle, Pa., laboratory, 443, 445; specific supplies, 451 ;;.
Carnes, Capt. Patrick, Arnold's treason, 91.
Carolina Packet, flag vessel, 356, 436.
Cary, Archibald, Washington's warning on disaster, 242/2.
Casualties, British foray from Canada, 230 n; Kings Mountain, 258.
Cattle, for Fort Schuyler, 415; specific supplies, 451, 461; winter killing,
454. See also Hides; Meat.
Cavalry, legionary or partisan corps, 163, 299; of rearranged army, as-
signed to states, 278-280; returns on needed equipments, 436; winter
quarters, 486; rules of promotion, 502. \See also Armand-Tuffin;
Lee, Henry; Provost; regiments by number.
Chain, winter raising, 298; floats, 463.
Chambers, Col. James, officer of the day, 81, 178, 257, 342, 401.
Champe, Sergt. John, attempt to capture Arnold, 22372.
Chapin Library, material from, 44072.
Chaplains, at hospitals, 376/2.
Chapman, Maj. Albert, court-martial, no, in; service, no 22; detach-
ment, 112; officer of the day, 168.
Charcoal, making, 169.
Charleston, N. H. See Number Four.
Charleston, S. C, supplies for prisoners of war, flag vessel, 32, 52, 356,
436; civilian prisoners, treatment, 128, 192, 194; proposed exchanges,
132, 315, 322, 325, 366, 443, 444; proposed cooperative expedition
against, 482.
518 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Charlotte, N. C, British at, 216, 297.
Charlottesville, Va. See Convention troops.
Chastellux, Francois Jean, chevalier de, visits at American camp, Wash-
ington's comment, 357, 415, 456, 477, 507; service, 357 n; to Phila-
delphia, introductions, 397, 403; to frontier, introduction, 500.
Cheever, Ezekiel, letter to, 492; Collins trial, 492.
Chenevard, John, wine for headquarters, 57.
Chesapeake Bay, British expedition. See Virginia.
Chester, N. Y., magazine, 283 n.
Chestnuts, destruction, 142.
Child, Maj. Jonathan, Ticknor trial, 200.
Christiana Bridge, Del., specific supplies, 451 n.
Christie, John, foragemaster, court-martial, 154.
Cilley, Col. Joseph, officer of the day, 13, 109.
Circulars to states, 204, 331, 450.
Claims. See Accounts.
Clark, Abraham, committee on half-pay, 294 n.
Clinton, Gov. George, letters to, 93, 108, 193, 225, 262, 295, 303, 344, 413,
452 (two), 496, 499; Arnold's papers, 93 n; flour, scarcity, impress-
ment, 108, 412, 413, 452, 453; invasion from Canada, 193, 232, 295,
303; Fort Schuyler, 197, 299; Thomas Smith, 225, 226; quota of
troops, recruiting, 296, 297, 344, 345, 452, 455; circular to, 331 n;
militia exemption of armorers, 496; introduction of French officers,
499.
Clinton, Sir Henry, place of headquarters, 26; exchange of officers, 27,
134; letters to, 32, 67, 103, 128, 134, 194, 234, 356, 375, 448; flag ves-
sel to Charleston, 32, 52, 356; special exchanges, 54, 67, 376; Andre,
letter, 103, in«; civilian prisoners at Charleston, letter, 128, 128 n,
194; general exchange, letter, 134, 192, 315, 375, 443, 444, 448; resi-
dent agents for prisoners, letter, 190, 234, 234/2; expedition to Vir-
ginia, letter, 224, 230 n, 285, 286, 374; exchange of general officers,
268. See also Campaign of 1780.
Clinton, Gen. James, council of war on campaign possibilities, 572, gn;
brigade inspection, 13; officer of the day, 24, 71, 83, 101, 121; Spen-
cer's regiment, 64; rearguard, 74; Albany command, instructions,
259, 296, 423; letters to, 259, 299, 305, 422, 455, 498, 500; Fort Schuy-
ler, 299; raid from Canada, 303-306; Ethan Allen, 304, 306; position
as brigadier, 398, 491; winter posts of brigade, 417; recruiting, 452,
455; clothing, 498; armory, 498; introduction of French officers, 500.
Clothier general, deputy, 300 n. See also Wilkinson, James.
INDEX 519
Clothing, need for levies, 3/2; scarcity of winter, failure of importations,
mismanagement, 21, 30, 120, 211, 242, 296, 329, 353, 372, 373, 462,
477; privateer prizes as source, 21; provost returns, 53; need in
South, 189; Virginia levies, 202; waste in short enlistments, 206;
Lee's corps, 245; problem of nonstate and staff officers, 252; promise,
281; arrearages, 281; distribution, 284, 329, 498, 501, 506; public,
for officers, 285; frontier troops, 296, 299, 300; exchanged men, 320;
appeal to states, 331, 332; invalids, 342; excessive requisition, 352; to
Charleston prisoners of war, 356, 436; transportation, 367, 368; pre-
cariousness of supply, 368; making in army, 368, 373; discharges to
conserve, 453, 470, 495, 497; reports by state clothiers, 453; returns
on supply and need, 460; possible state supply, 462; British prisoners
of war, 464; from strouds, 506. See also Clothier general; Overalls;
Shirts; Shoes; State clothiers, Uniforms.
Clove. ''See Smiths Clove.
Coane, Lieut. Conolly, Hamilton's paper, 53; to New York, 53.
Cobb, Lieut. Col. David, detachment, 65; at court of inquiry, 359.
Cochran, Dr. John, service and ability, 18; chief surgeon, 218; letter to,
307; half-pay in medical department, 307.
Cochran, Lieut. Col. Robert, officer of the day, 75.
Cogswell, Ma]. Thomas, detachment, 75; officer of the day, 96; wagon-
master, 102.
Colchester, Conn., dragoon winter quarters, 337, 410, 411, 419, 49222.
Collins, John, court-martial, 492; office, 492/2.
Commander in chief, enlarged power, 14, 41; paroles honoring, 71, 256;
apprehension of disaster, 241, 242; Hartford convention and power,
452 n. See also Addresses; Continental army; General orders; Hart-
ford conference; Headquarters; Military science; Presentations.
Commander in Chief's Guard. See Gibbs, Caleb.
Commerce. See Commissary; Imports; Intercourse; Speculation; Trans-
portation.
Commissary, support of Southern campaign, 14; supplies through Bank,
17, 106/2; supplies to Charleston prisoners of war, flag, 32, 52, 356,
436; validity of certificates, 51; evil of state supply, 123; British sup-
plies from states 314; Neutral Ground forage, 350-352; supplies to
Convention troops, flag, 447-449; direful condition, 458; no pur-
chase by line officers, 484. See also next titles; Clothing; Forage;
Liquor; Magazines; Military stores; Provisions; Quartermaster de-
partment.
Commissary general of issues, deputy, 188. See also Stewart, Charles.
Commissary general of purchases, deputies, 199, 200/2. See also Blaine,
Ephraim.
520 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Commissary of forage. See Biddle, Clement; Lutterloh, Henry Emanuel.
Commissary of military stores. See Military stores.
Commissary of prisoners of war, deputy, 188. See also Skinner, Abraham.
Committee of cooperation at headquarters, congressional opposition, 116.
Communication, winter Mohawk Valley, 423. See also Express; Intelli-
gence; Intercourse; Post-office.
Conduct unbecoming to an officer. See Crimes.
Connecticut, state force, 7; quota of regiments, 279; salt meat, 296, 369;
British supplies from, 314; state regiments and proposed Kings
Bridge attack, 390; recruiting for 1781; returns for data, 437, 441,
442, 444, 506; specific supplies, 451/2; dragoon winter quarters, 491-
494; fear of British designs, 495, 496, 506; clothing, 506. See also
next titles.
Connecticut, governor of. See Trumbull, Jonathan.
Connecticut brigades, pickets on march, 129; new arrangement, com-
missions, 171; line of battle, 187; winter quarters, march, 337, 345,
346, 352, 401, 405, 419, 447; dragoon regiment, 411; discharge of
levies, 417. See also Huntington, Jedidiah; Parsons, Samuel Holden.
Connecticut Eighth Regiment, officer, 328 n. See also Sherman, Isaac.
Connecticut Fifth Regiment, officer court-martialed, now; officer, 328 n.
See also Bradley, Philip Burr.
Connecticut First Regiment, officers, 31 n, i2gn, 33472, 46072. See also
Starr, Josiah.
Connecticut Fourth Regiment, officer, 12972; officer court-martialed, 460.
Connecticut Ninth Regiment, officer, 485. See also Webb, Samuel
Blatchley.
Connecticut Second Regiment, officers, 117/, 27772, 32872, 33372, 33422,
361 72.
Connecticut Seventh Regiment, officers, 33472, 36172. See also Swift,
Heman.
Connecticut Sixth Regiment. See Meigs, Return Jonathan.
Connecticut State Library, material from, 21272, 28272, 43772, 49472, 49672.
Connecticut Third Regiment, adjutant, 31; officers, 3172, 46772, 48572;
officer court-martialed, 334. See also Wyllys, Samuel.
Connolly, Dr. John, exchange, 69, 136, 218.
Continental army, Stockbridge Indians, 44; reorganization, Washing-
ton's objections, changes, 157-165, 263, 277-281, 290, 312, 327, 400;
state interference deprecated, 165, 491; ladies' gift, 168; meaning of
"line," 232; synopsis of deplorable condition, 458. See also Ac-
counts; Board of War; Boats; Campaign; Casualties; Crimes; Dis-
INDEX 521
charges; Discipline; Drill; Fatigue; Frontier; Guards; Health;
Intercourse; Leave; March; Militia; Music; Officers; Prisoners of
war; Quarters; Recruiting; Regiments; Returns; Staff.
Continental Congress, liquidation of depreciation in pay, 3; waste and
graft in staff, 9; extension of Washington's power, 14, 41; funds for
expeditionary force, 14, 15; cooperative plans, force and supplies, 15;
medical department, 18, 19; Stockbridge Indians, 44; Southern
campaign, 52; staff department certificates, 54; Arnold's treason,
93 n, 218; supplies, specific, 105, 106, 371; need of adequate power,
117, 210, 242, 246, 247, 328; false security 117, 118, 11872; need of
better personnel, 123; Andre's captors, 133 72, 378; army reorganiza-
tion, 157, 16772, 263; payment for impressments, 171; Camden, in-
quiry, 181, 189, 244; southern command, Greene, 181, 245 n, 311,
320; military appointments, 217, 218; exchanges, 220, 366, 3767?,
397; Fort Pitt relief, 231; Mason affair, 231 n; subsistence money,
253; McDougall as delegate, 254; appointment of general officers,
262, 397; Canadian refugees, 27672; need of executive boards, 372;
wintering horses, 37672; hospital chaplain, 37672; inspector general
department, 398-400; Carlisle arsenal, 443; payment for horses, 468,
472; half-pay, 472; Fort St. George exploit, 473, 477; commissary
purchases, 484. See also Board of War; Committee of cooperation;
President.
Continental Village, N. Y., express through, 144; winter quarters, 337.
Convention troops, exchange of general officers, 27, 67, 69, 135, 136, 192,
243, 268-270, 315, 322, 323; scarcity of provisions, relief, 30, 145,
155; failure of British funds, 30; exchange negotiations, composi-
tion, accounts, 132, 315, 323-325, 330, 366, 375-377, 443, 444, 448;
commendation of Wood's superintendency, 155, 156; and British
advance, 326; supplies by flag vessel, 326, 331, 447-449; parole of
officers, 445.
Converse, Capt. Thomas, acting brigade major, 334; service, 334 72; offi-
cer of the day, 361, 396.
Conway, Lieut. Col. John, officer of the day, 71.
Cooking, chimneys in tents, 152; emergent, 380, 381, 383.
Coos, N. H., charges against staff officers, court-martial, 187, 188, 199.
Cooper, Abraham, wagoner, court-martial, 97.
Cooper, James, headquarters account, 6772.
Cooper, Obadiah, headquarters account, 6772.
Coram, L. I., raid, 335, 416, 417, 420, 473, 477.
Cork, Ireland, fleet from, delay, 192, 255, 314, 358.
Cornell, Ezekiel, committees: Southern campaign, 24572; half-pay, 29472;
Washington's letters, 31572, 40072, 42072.
522 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Cornwallis, Charles, earl, policy in South, letter, 147, 147 n, 192, 194.
See also Southern campaign.
Councils of war, on campaign possibilities (September), 5-9; on South-
ern campaign and winter quarters, 272, 273.
Countersigns, significant, 47, 71, 81, 96, 188, 256, 257, 288; soldier pos-
sessing, 179; communicating, 188. See also Watchword.
Courts-martial, congressional resolve on staff officials, 10; staff employees,
24, 25; detail, orders, 33, 46, 47, 66, 74, 141, 151, 185, 258, 270, 329,
359; of soldiers, 33, 96, 175, 176, 179, 222, 335; of officers, 71, 72, no,
153, 154, 265, 334, 347, 348, 460; of staff officials, 96, 154, 187, 188,
199-201, 252, 264; Andre, 101; sentences criticised and disapproved,
in, 201, 265, 334; and march, 124; frontier, 175-177; Smith, 196,
198, 262; of spies, 253; malicious charges, 265, 271; at expense of
complainant, 271; of boatmen, 271; summary, as remedy, 309;
Arnold, 370.
Courts of inquiry, Springfield action, 32, 49, 71; Arnold's aides, 225, 228-
230, 359, 442, 443; Camden, 236-240, 244; slave soldiers, 272.
Cox, Capt. Richard, at court of inquiry, 359, 442.
Cox Hill, N. Y., proposed attack, 432.
Craig, Dr. Andrew, apothecary, ability, 19, 218.
Craig, Col. Thomas, officer of the day, 31, 222, 301; letters to, 382, 395;
proposed Kings Bridge attack, 382, 383, 395; preparation of winter
quarters, 406.
Craik, Dr. James, service and ability, 18; chief hospital physician, 218;
bears letter, 307.
Crane, Ma). William, letters to, 60, 392, 396; post, exchange negotiations,
60; Staten Island ruse, 392-394, 396.
Cranes (Cranestown) Gap, N. J., post, 251, 266.
Cranestown, N. J., movement, 385.
Crimes and misdemeanors, unbecoming conduct, 76, 153, 271; illegal
discharges, no, 179, 270, 334; damaged provisions, 187; illegal
issues, 188; supplying enemy, 314; unauthorized passes, 348. See
also Absence; Assault; Courts-martial; Courts of inquiry; Depreda-
tions; Desertion; Disobedience; Graft; Provost; Punishments; Spies;
Theft; Treason.
Crumpond, N. Y., danger in route by, 260.
Culbertson, Capt. Samuel, exchange, 291; service, 291 n.
Culper, Samuel, sr., report, 203.
Culper, Samuel, jr., compensation, 61; report desired, 204.
Cunningham, Lieut. Henry, quartermaster, 334; service, 334/2.
INDEX 523
Custine-Sarreck, Adam Philippe, comte de, visits to camp, 357, 456; serv-
ice, 357 n; to Philadelphia, introductions, 434-436; bears letters,
436, 439.
Damages. See Depredations.
Damas, Charles F. L. J. C, comte de, to Philadelphia, introductions, 404;
service 404 n; at camp, 415, 456; to South, 440; to frontier, introduc-
tions 499, 500.
Danbury, Conn., express through, 144.
Dandridge, Bartholomew, Washington's warning on disaster, 242 n.
Danvers Historical Society, material from, 87 n.
Darby, Ma]. Samuel, officer of the day, 24, 75, 101, 140, 178, 222, 261,
301, 342; service, 24 n; letters to, 362, 388; proposed attack on Kings
Bridge, 362, 363, 388; boats for Southern campaign, 497.
Darke, Ma]. William, exchange, 291; service, 29m.
Davis, Ma]. John, officer of the day, 81; recruiting, 452, 455; service,
452 n.
Davis, Peter, court-martial, capital penalty, pardon, 175, 179.
Dayton, Col. Elias, at court-martial, 33, 46, 47; intelligence, 466; brig-
adiership or derangement, 490.
Dayton, Capt. Jonathan, captured, 302.
Deane, Silas, Lee row, 424.
Dearborn, Lieut. Col. Henry, officer of the day, 13, 109; quarters, 34; at
court of inquiry, 359, 442.
De Hart, Lieut. Col., William, at court of inquiry, 33.
De Lancey, Col. James, and possible evacuation of New York, 104; ex-
pected raid, 506.
Delaware, militia, road repairs, dismissal, 169, 170; quota, 280; flour sup-
ply, 313; specific supplies, 451 n.
Delaware Regiment, returns needed, 211.
Demorest, , house, 382.
Denning, William, letter to, 283; condition of magazines, 283, 284; office,
283 n.
Depredations, general orders on plundering, capital penalty, 33, 96;
fences, 141; prevalence, 303, 309; caution against winter, 407.
Derry, John, shipmaster, 356.
Desertion, pursuit, 12372; trials, penalty, 179, 222, 335; British deserters
to headquarters, 486, 487. See also Absence without leave.
Destouches, Charles Rene Dominique Sochet, succeeds Ternay, 481; de-
clines to cooperate in South, 481.
524 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Detail. See Fatigue; Guards.
Detroit, proposed winter expedition, 148, 176.
Deux Points, Guillaume, comte de, at camp, 357, 456; service, 357 n.
De Witt, Simeon, New Jersey maps, 274 n\ geographer, 386, 400, 484.
Dey, Col. Theunis, house, headquarters, 187, 274.
Dinners, at headquarters, 71, 187, 395.
Discharges, pending, and campaign plans, 7, 15, 80; dismissal of staff
officials, 25, 97; illegal, graft, no, 153, 179, 265, 270, 334; returns
on pending, 152; annual dissolution of army, 323; to conserve sup-
plies, 403, 417, 447, 453, 457, 469, 470, 495, 497, 505. See also Pun-
ishments (officers cashiered); Resignation.
Discipline, during winter, 407. See also Crimes; Disobedience; Drill.
Disobedience to order and neglect of duty, court-martial of Hazen, 65,
66; officers, 72, 252; staff officer, 264.
Dobbs, Capt. William, pilot, for French, 43, 46.
Dobbs Ferry, N. Y., post, outpost, command, garrison, 58, 107, 124, 130,
139, 310 n, 311, 402; letter to commander, 139; and proposed attack
on Kings Bridge, 394 n, 426-428; winter post, 409, 412; boat guard,
467.
Dodds Tavern, N. J., 274.
Doremus, George, house, flying hospital, 201, 274.
Draft. See Recruiting.
Dragoons. See Cavalry.
Draper, Dr. George, surgeon, 218.
Drill, brigade parades, 34; maneuvers commended, 94, 95; officers and
mastership, 350; during winter, 407. See also Inspector general.
Drums, skins for heads, 186. See also Music.
Duane, James, letters to, 19/z, 117; committees: Arnold's treason, 93/z;
Canadian refugees, 276 n; Washington's letter, 315 n; — Washing-
ton on relations, 118; on false security, letter, n8«.
Du Bouchet, Denis Jean Florimond Langlois de Montheville, chevalier
de, letter to, compliments, 275.
Du Bouexic, Louis Urbain. See Guichcn.
Dubuysson des Aix, Lieut. Col. Charles Francois, letters to, 144, 145 «;
exchange, 144, 324; service, 144 «; parole to Europe, 145, 145 n, 263.
Dudley, , loyalist, charges against, 250.
Duer, William, Thomas Smith, 225, 226; letter to, 226.
Dunbar, Dr. Lewis Ford, letter to, 423; retirement, 423.
Du Plessis. See Mauduit.
INDEX 525
Du Portail, Gen. Louis le Beque {chevalier Derford), exchange, 69, 243,
2D9> 3X5> 3l6> 322> 3235 letter to> 323-
Durry, John. See Derry.
Eagle, prisoners of war, exchange, 69.
Earl, John, shipmaster, news, 47.
Easton, Pa., specific supplies, 451 n.
Edwards, Maj. Evan, officer of the day, 71.
Eighty-second Foot, British, officer, 155 n.
Elbert, Col. {Brig. Gen.) Samuel, exchange, 366.
Elirio de la Puente, Maria Josefa, letter to, 174.
Elizabethtown, N. J., cartel negotiations, flag vessel, 60, 62, 68; danger
in, 302.
Elliot, Lieut. Gov. Andrew, Andre, 11122, 131, 1340; Muir's parole, 155.
Ellison, Thomas, house as headquarters, 435 n.
Elsworth, Lieut. Peter, promotion, 63; service, 63 n.
Embezzlement. See Graft.
Emerson, Lieut. Nehemiah, rank, 170, 171; service, 17072.
Engineers, reorganization of army, 312; special returns, 399. See also
Du Portail; Geographer; Gouvion; Pioneers; Sappers and miners. . .
Engrossment. See Speculation.
Equipments, partisan corps, Lee, 245, 312; discharged men, 404, 407;
dragoon needs, 436, 441, 444, 456, 499. See also Military stores.
Erskine, Robert, New Jersey maps, 274/2; death, successor, 386, 400.
Eustis, Dr. William, surgeon, 218.
Exchange. See Prisoners of war.
Executive departments, need, 372. See also Board of War.
Express, court-martial of rider, 24, 25; prompt, 33; special to Rocham-
beau, 143; tampering with despatches, 332; winter withdrawal, 415,
457> 477> 4925 accounts, 445; no funds, 473, 479.
Fairfax, William Henry, American agency, 316, 318; confiscation, 318.
Fairfield, Conn., express through, 144.
Fatigue, road repairs, 11, 169, 335, 367; bargemen, n, 48; grain thresh-
ing, i8;z; orders, 74; militia woodcutting, 87, 88; charcoal making,
169; forage, 390.
Fences, general order against, as fuel, 75; depredations, 141.
Ferguson, Col. Patrick, Kings Mountain, 258, 297, 308; service, 258 n.
Fernald, Lieut. Col. Tobias, officer of the day, 65, 129, 256, 328, 379.
526 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Ferries. See Dobbs; Kings.
Ferris, Joshua, reprieve, 485.
Few, William, letter to, 53.
Field officers, complement, 162.
Finances, crisis, crux, 210, 317, 320, 469; proposed utilization of plate,
309; proposed southern subscription, 321. See also Accounts; Bank;
Bills of exchange; Funds; Money; Public debt; Requisitions; Specu-
lation; Taxation.
Finley, Lieut. John H., exchange, 291; service, 292 n.
First Artillery, officer, 197 n. See also Flarrison, Charles.
Fish, Ma). Nicholas, officer of the day, 9; absent, 13.
Fishkill, N. Y., winter quarters, 401; specific supplies, 451 «.
Fitch, Corp. , flag vessel, 449.
Fitzhugh, Lieut. Peregrine, exchange, 246, 327, 475 n.
Fitzhugh, William, letters to, 246, 327; Greene, 246.
Flag of truce, vessel to Charleston prisoners, 32, 52, 356; vessel at cartel
negotiations, 60, 62; in Andre affair, 102-104; irregular British, 310;
vessel with Convention troops supplies, 326, 331, 447-449; vessel
for exchanged prisoners, 464.
Fleury, Lieut. Col. Frangois Louis Teisseydre, marquis de, to French
service, bears letter, 457; Washington's commendation, 457.
Floridas, Spanish operations, 148, 151, 177, 474, 476, 476/7, 481.
Flour, supply, 48, 59; alarming scarcity, appeals, 105, 108, 447, 452-454,
462, 505; West Point supply, 100, 298; carelessness and waste, 283;
effect of Mohawk Valley raid, 295, 313, 315, 329, 338; sources,
impressment in New York, 412, 413; requisition on states, 451 n,
465; New York export, Washington's protest, 452. See also Ovens;
Provisions.
Flying army, Greene's plan, 321 n.
Flying Camp of 1776, officers, 29172, 2927/.
Food. See Provisions.
Forage, impressment, warrants, 5, 62; certificates, 51, 54-56; lack of
preparation of magazines, sources of winter supply, 106; economiz-
ing, 127; graft, 154; scarcity, 242; raid on British magazines, 335,
416, 417, 420; fatigue detail, 390. See also Commissary of forage.
Foragemasters, court-martial, 96, 154.
Foreign loan, need, 56, 143, 242, 246, 321, 373, 375, 508.
Foreign relations. See French alliance nations by name.
Foreign volunteers, minor, 76, 225; half-pay, 508. See also Armand-
Tuffin; Qu Portail; Fleury; Gouvion, Kalb; Lafayette; Steuben.
INDEX 527
Forman, Gen. David, on Rodney's fleet, 49/2, 64.
Forrest, Lieut. Col. Thomas, letter to, 378; retirement, 378.
Forsyth, Ma). , Pendleton affair, 154.
Fort Anne, N. Y., British capture, 193, 230, 295/2.
Fort Charles, N. Y., British post, proposed attack, 432.
Fort Frederick, Md., Convention troops, 326/2.
Fort George, British post on Manhattan, proposed attack, 432-434.
Fort George, N. Y., British capture, 193, 230, 230/2, 232, 295 n.
Fort Knyphausen (Washington), N. Y., British post, reconnoitre, 383;
proposed attack, 432, 433.
Fort Pitt, Pa., scarcity, unrest, relief, funds, impressment, 176, 231; spe-
cific supplies, 451 n. See also Brodhead, Daniel.
Fort St. George, L. I., British post, exploit, general orders on, 416, 417,
420; Congress on, 473, 477.
Fort Schuyler, N. Y., winter garrison, line, state troops, 59, 198, 216, 419,
447; provisions, salt meat, cattle, 59, 197, 259, 260, 296, 299, 338, 369,
416, 438, 453, 499; question of evacuation, 197; artillery relief, 197;
and British raid, 232; duty as hardship, 295; clothing, 296, 299, 300;
winter communication, 423; specific supplies, 451 n.
Fort Tryon, N. Y., British post, proposed attack, 432, 433.
Fort Washington, N. Y. See Fort Knyphausen.
Fortifications, French, at Rhode Island, 12; information on British, at
New York, 26. See also "Fort" titles; West Point.
Forty-first Foot, British, officer, 173 n.
Fourth Artillery, officers, 26m, 265/2. See also Procter, Thomas.
Fourth Dragoons. See Moylan, Stephen.
Fowler, Capt. John, letters to, 385; proposed attack on Kings Bridge,
385; service, 385 n.
Franklin, Benjamin, letters to, 142, 507; Washington on relations, 142;
Washington's trip to Europe, 142; Chastellux, 507; French loan,
508.
Franks, Ma). David Solesbury, Arnold's aide, and treason, 89, 93/2;
court of inquiry, 225, 228-230, 442, 443; letter to, 229.
Frederick II of Prussia, portrait, 463.
Frederick, Md., agent for prisoners of war, 191 n.
Fredericksburg, N. Y., express through, 144.
French alliance, need of loan from French, 56, 143, 242, 246, 321, 373,
375, 508; clothing, 462. See also Foreign volunteers; Navy, French;
Rochambeau.
528 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
French army. See Rochambeau.
Frogs Neck, N. Y., in proposed attack on Kings Bridge, 390.
Frontier, British incursion from Canada, 193, 195, 216, 230, 232, 295,
303-306, 312, 322, 353; instructions on, 259; security as duty of state
troops, 295; winter protection, 417. See also Fort Pitt; Indians; Mo-
hawk Valley.
Frost, Samuel, blacksmith, headquarters account, 66 n.
Fry, Windsor, pardon, 228; escape and recapture, 228/2.
Frye, Lieut. Nathaniel, transfer, 497; service, 497/7.
Fuel, fences, general order against, 75, 141; militia, woodcutters, 87, 88.
Funds (military chest), expeditionary force, 14, 15; express rider's delay
and graft, penalty, 24, 25; exhausted, 61, 292, 339, 458, 473; need of
increase in French, 77, 78. See also Accounts; Specie.
Funeral, Poor's, 23.
Furloughs, winter, to officers, 408, 422; to general officers during winter,
440-442. See also Absence without leave.
Furman, Moore, delayed funds, 24, 25.
Fuses, production, 231 n.
Fustner, George, spy, 288.
Gaine, Hugh, New Yorl{ Gazette, 189/z.
Galatea, H. M. S., at New York, 29.
Gall, Gen. W. R. von, exchange, 268-270, 323, 324.
Gamble, David, court-martial, capital penalty, 175, 179.
Gansevoort, Col. Peter, officer of the day, 82; to frontier, 193, 195; move-
ments, 359, 360.
Garanger, Capt. Lewis, artillery experiments, 225, 227.
Gardiners Bay, L. I., wintering of British fleet, 447.
Garrett, Ensign Andrew, exchange, 70; service, 70/2.
Gates, Gen. Horatio, letters to, 136, 236; after Camden, 136-138; court
of inquiry, relieved of command, 181, 189, 236-240, 244; Traversie,
276. See also Camden.
Gauthier de Murnans. See Murnans.
General de Riedesel, flag vessel, 448-450.
General officers, letter to, 101; Andre trial, 10 1, 109, no; exchange, 243,
268-270, 315, 322, 323; state basis of appointment, 397; winter fur-
loughs, 440-442; half-pay, 472; rule of promotion, 503-505. See
also Brigadier generals; Commander in chief; Major generals.
INDEX 529
General orders, (Steenrapie: iySo, September): waste and graft by staff
departments, 9; headquarters guard, fatigue, n; appointments, de-
tachment, complete chain of sentinels, 13; detached officers' accounts
and regulations, Poor's funeral, 22; court-martial, 24; adjutant,
31; court of inquiry, returns on war enlistments, courts-martial,
Poor's effects, brigade parades, 32; court-martial, 46; court-mar-
tial, 47; court of inquiry, 49; detachment, appointments, returns
on armorers, regiments brigaded, quartermaster accounts, 63; Hazen
trial, 65; (by Greene): vigilance during Washington's absence, 66;
Greene's dinners, court of inquiry, court-martial, march warning
fatigue, 71; march orders, court-martial, 72; (Orangetown): court-
martial, guards, fatigue. 74; using fences as fuel, court-martial, 75;
returns on quartermaster department property, 82; medicines,
meeting of inspectors, army under arms, 82; wagoners, march
orders, 83; maneuvers commended, Arnold's treason, 94; courts-
martial, 96; (by Washington): tents, wagoner, Pickering, appoint-
ment, wagonmaster, thanks to Greene, 10 1 ; (October): Andre, court-
martial, 109; tents for guards, 112; march orders, detachment, sick,
124; (Paramus): march orders, 129; march orders, stragglers, road
repairs, drying ammunition, court-martial, 140; (Prea\ness): posi-
tions, fences and fuel, camp duties, guards, 141; court-martial, re-
turns on status of troops, 151; wagoners, chimneys in tents, rifle
practice, court-martial, 152; fatigue, charcoal making, 168; court-
martial, 178; court-martial, 185; skins for drumheads, order of bat-
tle, officers of the day and reports and dinners, court-martial, court
of inquiry, communicating countersigns, 186; court-martial, sick,
shirts, 199; post, 202; wagoners, appointments by Congress, Arnold,
217; parade, prisoners, court-martial, 222; shoe returns, 233; posi-
tions, officers' ration, court-martial, 251; clothing, appointment, 253;
court-martial, Kings Mountain, 257; adjutant, parade, major gen-
eral, 261; courts-martial, returns on officers, 264; wagoners, courts-
martial, post-office, 270; (November): reorganization of army, state
quotas, half-pay, bounty, clothing, officers, 277; detachment, beat,
adjutant, 282; quartermaster, land bounty, 287; pay depreciation,
capture of imprudent officers, depredations and straggling, 302;
court-martial, 319; exchanged men, 320; court-martial, inspector,
328; position, 333; appointments, returns on invalids, courts-martial,
fatigue, 333; clothing, march orders, baggage, 342; court-martial,
passes, 347; officers' uniforms, minutiae, drill, discipline, 349; arms,
returns, waste, Arnold's aides, court-martial, 358; clean camp, 365;
shoe returns, 379; preparations for attack, wintering horses, 380;
fatigue, 389; march orders, 391; march orders, 396; march orders,
light corps, dissolved, thanks, rifle corps, 401; (Morristown): Fort
St. George exploit, 420; (New Windsor, December): returns on
530 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Connecticut men, Arnold's aides, 442; boat guard, securing boats,
clothing returns, court-martial, 459; general officers and half-pay,
pay for disabled horses, Fort St. George exploit, 472; commissary
purchases, 484; Parson's command, his aides, 485; duty returns,
494; returns on arms and ammunition, 494; court of inquiry, cloth-
ing, pay in inspection department, 500.
Geographer, appointment, 386, 400, 484. See also De Witt, Simeon;
Erskine, Robert.
George, Reuben, express rider, court-martial, 24, 25.
George, Lieut. William, exchange, 292; service, 292 n.
Georgetown, Mel., specific supplies, 451 n, 465.
Georgia, regiment, 280.
Georgia Artillery, officer, 67.
Georgia Second Regiment. See Elbert, Samuel.
Gerlach, Capt. H., flag vessel, 449.
Germain, Lord George, letter to, 230/?.
German Battalion, brigaded, 64; retention, 278; dispersal, 487.
Gibbs, Ma]. Caleb, letters written by, 175/2, 181 n, 212/2, 216/2, 22572,
23772, 276/2, 290/2, 299/2, 305/2, 306/2, 315/2, 332/2, 344/2, 400/2;
winter headquarters, 352.
Gibson, Col. John, at court-martial, 179.
Gifford, Capt. William Bernard, loyalty suspected, 466; service, 466/2.
Gifts, ladies', to army, 168. See also Presentations.
Gilbert, Capt. Michael, letter to, 60.
Gilchrist, Capt. George, exchange, 291; service, 291/2.
Gilman, Capt. Nicholas, rank, 233; service, 233/2.
Gimat, Col. Jean Joseph, chevalier de, light corps, officers court-martialed,
71, 72.
Gist, Gen. Mordecai, countersign honoring, 94; recruiting, 343, 364.
Glover, Gen. John, councils of war: on campaign possibilities, 5/2, 9/2;
on Southern campaign and winter quarters, 272/2, 273/2; — officer
of the day, 31, 72, 94, 109, 124, 141, 185, 217, 253, 261, 287, 319,
333> 349> 365> 39 1> vanguard, 74, 125; letters to, 183, 196, 403; new
arrangement, errors, 183-185, 196, 197; discharge of levies, 403, 404;
as brigadier, 491.
Godwin, Phebe, tavern, 329.
Goetschius, Maj. John Mauritius, letters to, 130, 250, 336, 384; post and
patrol, 130, 139; Dudley, 250; provisions, 336; proposed Kings
Bridge attack, 382, 384.
INDEX 531
Gontaut Biron, Armand Louis de. See Lauzun.
Gooch, Capt. John, letter to, 249; pay claim, 249; service, 249 n.
Gosset, John, court-martial, 176.
Gouvion, Lieut. Col. Jean Baptiste, Hartford conference, 16, 43, 58; can-
non, 47; Arnold's treason, 87; West Point works, 127; to headquar-
ters, 352; proposed Kings Bridge attack, 383.
Graft, by staff departments, congressional resolution on penalty, 9; for-
agemaster, 96, 154; wagoner, 97; officer, no; commissary, 199-201;
discharges, 265; military stores, 493.
Grain, threshing by soldiers, i8«; impressment in New York, 412, 413.
See also Flour; Forage.
Gray, Lieut. Col. Ebenezer, letters to, 85 n, 86 n; Arnold treason, 86; at
court-martial, 460.
Great Barrington, Mass., specific supplies, 451 n.
Great Britain. See American Revolution; West Indies.
Greaton, Col. John, at court-martial, 24, 33; officer of the day, 72, 152,
256> 333> 396-
Greene, Catherine (Littlefield), husband's correspondence, 470, 479; let-
ter to, 479.
Greene, Col. Christopher, force, 7; military stores, 26, 258; to remain in
Rhode Island, Rochambeau, 151, 228, 285; letters to, 228, 284, 410;
state pay, 284; clothing, 284; reorganization of Rhode Island line,
285; to West Point, 410, 415.
Greene, Edward A., acknowledgment to, 410/z.
Greene, George Washington, 480.
Greene, Gen. Nathanael, council of war on campaign possibilities, 5«,
9«; letters to, 20, 84, 97, 125, 143, 169, 181, 195, 196, 215, 320, 438,
464, 469; guards and patrols, 20; temporary command, instruc-
tions, 51, 58; acting quartermaster general, 55; general orders by,
66, 71, 72, 74, 75, 82, 83, 94, 96; countersigns on, 81, 256; Arnold
treason, army measures, 84, 92/2; Andre, 97, inn, 131, 134^; gen-
eral orders on services as quartermaster general, 102; West Point
command, instructions, 125-128, 133, 143, 169; southern command,
reception, instructions, Washington's promise of support, 181, 182,
189, 215, 216, 237-240, 311, 320, 469; invasion from Canada, 193,
195; Smith trial, 196; Camden court of inquiry, 237-240, 244;
Washington's commendations, ability and task, 241, 244, 246-249;
artillery, 243; military stores, 285; aide, 292 n; on La Luzerne's atti-
tude, letter, 32m; on flying army, letter, 32m; Lafayette to join,
438; supply deposit, 450; southern journey, at Mount Vernon, 464;
on Hamilton and adjutant generalship, letter, 470 n.
532 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Greene, Nathaniel Ray, 480.
Greene, Gov. William, circular to, 331 n; letter to, 355; Howell case, 355,
356.
Grier, Maj. James, officer of the day, 24; at court-martial, 33.
Guards, special at headquarters, n; completing chain of sentinels, 13; re-
formation of main, 20; vigilance during Washington's absence, 67;
orders after march, 74; tents for, 113; pickets on march, 129; camp
regulations, 142; parade, 222, 261; boat, 459, 467, 468, See also
Countersigns; Officers of the day; Provost.
Guichen, Louis Urbain de Bouexic, comte de, and southern plans, 38-
43, 79; off coast, and New York City plans, 45-48, 58, 79; counter-
sign honoring, 81; expectation, 148.
Hackettstown, N. J., magazine, 283.
Hadley, Mass., dragoon winter quarters, 492/2.
Hagan, Dr. Francis, ability, 19; surgeon, 218.
Haight, Samuel, headquarters breakfast, 66 n.
Hait, Lieut. Col. Joseph, officer of the day, 11, 277; service, 1 1 n; at court-
martial, 46.
Hale, Maj. Daniel, compensation, 394, 411.
Half-pay, Washington's advocacy, 158-160; reduced officers, 281, 289;
service to peace, 281; surgeons, reduced, 293, 307; order, reception,
371; general officers, 472; foreign volunteers, 508.
Hall, David, court-martial, capital penalty, 33.
Hamilton, Lieut. Col. Alexander, letters written by, 16/2, 17/2, 44 n, q6n,
59/z, 76/z, 97/2, 99/2, 101/2, 103/2, 10822, 11822, 14022, 142/2, 151 n,
165/2, 172/2, 174//, 178/2, 180/2, 195/2, 199/2, 212/2, 216/2, 217/2,
227/2, 229/2, 230/2, 233/2, 240/2, 241/2, 243/2, 244/2, 249/2, 255/2,
257/2, 260/2, 267/2, 269/2, 270/2, 275/2, 277/2, 281/2, 289/2, 291/2,
349 «> 375 »» 376"> 382w~387"> 389"> 394 »» 396^-398"> 4°3W~
406/2, 409/2-412/2, 415/2, 416/2; letters: on Arnold's escape, 92/2; on
boats, 379/2; — movements, 305; and adjutant generalship, 470.
Hamilton, Lieut. Gov. Henry, papers, 53; status, and exchange, 136, 144,
148, 185, 193, 325, 471; on Wood, 155; parole to New York, 325,
326.
Hamilton, Maj. James, officer of the day, 65, 186, 301, 349, 397; service,
301/2.
Hancock, Gov. John, letter to, 272; circular to, 331/2.
Hand, Gen. Edward, councils of war: on campaign possibilities, 5/2, 9/2;
on Southern campaign and winter quarters, 272//, 273/2; adjutant
generalship, 419, 471; as brigadier, 491.
INDEX 533
Haring, Cornelius, letter to, 120; supplies, 120; position, 120 n.
Harrington, Gen. William Henry, on British movements, letter, 148,
148;?.
Harrison, Benjamin, Washington's warning on disaster, 24272.
Harrison, Col. Charles, levies, 146, 203; letter to, 243; artillery for South-
ern campaign, 243.
Harrison, Lieut. Col. Robert Hanson, letters written by, 272, 1977, 2872,
3272, 3672, 5372, 61 », 6272, 6772,7072, 8477-8972,9172,9872, 10472, 11372,
11472, 13472-13672, 14772, 15072, 171 72, 181 ?2, 18372, 18572, 18672,
18972-19372, 19772, 22272; letter on express, 14472.
Harstall, Lieut. von, flag vessel, 449; service, 44972.
Hart, Jonathan. See Heart.
Hartford, Conn., express through, 144; specific supplies, 45172; New
England convention, 452. See also next title.
Hartford conference, preparations, 16, 17, 42-45, 48, 51; memorandum
of matters for consideration, 56, 57; journey, expenses, 6672, 7172;
answers to French queries, 76-78; substance of conference, 79-81;
inconclusive, 118.
Harwood, Ma]. Peter, officer of the day, 47, 109, 178; service, 4772.
Hastings, Francis Rawdon-Hastings, marquis of, policy of severity, let-
ter, 192, 194.
Hatfield, Mass., dragoon winter quarters, 49272.
Havana, Florida operations, 177.
Hay, Ma]. Adam, status, and exchange, 148, 185, 193, 325, 471; parole
to New York City, 325, 326.
Hay, Col. Ann Hawkes, Arnold treason, 9072.
Hay, Capt. John, exchange, 291; service, 29172.
Hay, Lieut. Col. Samuel, officer of the day, 217, 287, 361.
Hay, Lieut. Col. Udny, soldiers to thresh grain, 17; flour supply, 48, 59,
100; Washington's praise, 48; letter to, 411; impressment of flour
and grain, 412, 413.
Hay. See Forage.
Hazen, Col. Moses, state benefits for officers, 60, 61; officers, 6072, 82/2;
aide, 8272, 36072; court-martial on, 65, 66; officer of the day, 74; pur-
suit of deserters, 12372; at court-martial, 141, 270; at Coos, scarcity,
200; retention as independent corps, composition, 212, 254, 278,
280; letters to, 229, 306; British threat, 237; clothing for officers, 252;
Reid case, 306, 454, 485; winter quarters, 401; proposed Kings
Bridge attack, 426, 428; at court of inquiry, 500.
Head of Elk, Md., specific supplies, 451 72.
534 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Headquarters, Steenrapie, i; special guard, n; dinners, 71, 187, 395; Or-
angetown, 74, 99; Robinson House, 84; Paramus, 129; Preakness,
136, 141, 187; orderlies, 142; visit of French officers, 343, 357, 415,
456, 477, 507; selection of winter, 352; Morristown, 416; New Wind-
sor, 434, 435 n, 475; without funds, 458; Mrs. Washington, 480.
See also Military secretaries.
Health. See Medical department; Sick.
Heart, Capt. Jonathan, promotion, 31; service, 31 n.
Heath, Gen. William, letters to, 12, 25, 47, 88, 180, 216, 225, 226, 237,
251, 252, 258, 262, 267, 298, 305, 329, 336, 343, 350, 352, 359, 400,
405' 415>4l6> 4J7> 438> 453' 485> 496> 5°55 to main army, 88, 97;
West Point command, distribution of force, 180-183, 2l&> 22^5
British invasion from Canada, letter, 215, 303-306, 315, 315 22; court
of inquiry on Arnold's aides, 225; British threats, 237, 506; cloth-
ing for nonstate officers, 252; J. H. Smith, 262, 263; military stores
at Providence, 258; magazines at West Point, 258; prisoners, 267;
Kosciuszko's papers, 268; Hudson River chain, 298; provisions, scar-
city, 298, 329, 438, 505; aide, 32922; clothing, 330; winter quarters,
337, 346, 346/2, 401, 405; Neutral Ground forage, 338, 350-352;
visit of French officers, 343; New York brigade, 359, 417; proposed
attack on Kings Bridge, 390, 391; Fort Schuyler supplies, 415; dis-
charge of levies, 417; commissary affairs, 453, 454; boats, 459, 497.
Hendricks, John, letter to, 285; intelligence, 285, 288/2.
Henry, John, committee on Washington's letter, 3152/.
Herbert, Lieut. Stewart, adjutant, 261.
Hides, skins for drumheads, 186.
Highlands. See West Point.
Historical Society of Pennsylvania, material from, 6422, 11922, 129, 174,
38l> 435-
Hoakesley, Robert, flag vessel, 449; service, 44922.
Holden, Lieut. Aaron, exchange, 70; service, 7022.
Holdridge, Lieut. Col. Hezekiah, officer of the day, 32, 113, 233, 302.
Holston, Capt. , exchange, 291.
Hooker, , artificer, 154.
Hopkins, Joseph, headquarters account, 6622.
Horseneck Bridge, Passaic River, 274.
Horses, officers or special service, 61; equipments returns, 82; wintering,
127, 361, 369, 37622, 377, 380, 406, 411, 418, 422; dragoon, graft,
replacement, 271, 300, 362, 411; partisan corps, 312; payment for
disabled, 468, 472. See also Artillery; Cavalry; Forage; Transpor-
tation.
INDEX 535
Hospitals, flying, 124, 201; entrance formality, 265; chaplains, 376 72;
Washington visits, 450. See also Medical department.
Howe, Richard, viscount, movements of fleet (1778), 105.
Howe, Gen. Robert, councils of war: on campaign possibilities, 572, 972;
on Southern campaign and winter quarters, 27272, 273 72; — letter
to, 171; rum impressment, 171; charges against, 2570; march to
winter quarters, 405.
Howell, George, suspected, 355, 356.
Howly, Richard, committee on Canadian refugees, 276 n.
Hubbard, Col. Nehemiah, letter to, 43; preparations for Hartford con-
ference, 43.
Hubbell, Capt.-Lieut. Isaac, deputy adjutant general, 10; service, 1022.
Hubley, Lieut. Col. Adam, officer of the day, 47, 236, 319, 379.
Hudson River, chain, winter raising, floats, 298, 463; guard boats, regu-
lations, 351, 362, 363, 379. See also Dobbs Ferry; Kings Ferry; New
York City; West Point.
Hughes, Capt. John, letter to, 60; furlough, 360; service, 360/2.
Hull, Lieut. Col. William, officer of the day, 74, 140, 389.
Humphrey, Ensign John, adjutant, 261; service, 26172.
Humphreys, Lieut. Col. David, letters written by, 3/2, 4322, 4822, 13022,
16822, 17022, 19622, 20422, 21222, 22622, 25022, 25422, 25922, 26022,
26222, 26322, 27222, 308 72-3 1 1 22, 32222, 33022, 33622, 34022, 34622,
353»> 355 «> 356»> 364«> 378"> 385«> 3QI«> 437w> 438"> 44IW>
44222, 44522, 44622, 44822, 45022, 45322, 45522, 46822, 46922, 47522,
47622, 47922, 48622, 49422, 49822, 49922, 50622; proposed attack on
Kings Bridge, 381, 390, 391, 395-397; letters to, 390, 395; on aban-
donment of plan, 39522; Putnam, 39522; on securing boats, letter,
48622.
Huntington, Lieut. Col. Ebenezer, officer of the day, 49, 124.
Huntington, Gen. Jedidiah, councils of war: on campaign possibilities,
522, 922; on Southern campaign and winter quarters, 27272, 27322;
officer of the day, 13, 47, 81, 99, 112, 140, 168, 202, 236, 257, 277,
302, 333, 347, 365, 389, 401; quarters, 222; aide, 25172; vanguard,
403; letters to, 40422, 440; discharge of levies, 40472; proposed Kings
Bridge attack, 425; furlough, 440; orders court-martial, 460; as
brigadier, 491.
Huntington Samuel. See President of Congress.
Huntington Library, material from, 48, 155.
Huts, building winter, 354.
536 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Imports, inadequate clothing and arms, 21, 29, 30, 462, 465, 477.
Impressment, forage warrants, 5, 62; rum, 12; resulting distress in New
Jersey, 35; transportation, necessity, 147; regulation of payments,
171; provisions on frontier, 176; British, of seamen, 347; flour and
grain, 412; necessity, 458.
Indians, Stockbridge, with army, 44. See also Frontier.
Ink, invisible, 255.
Inspector general department, meeting, 83; reorganization, dissatisfac-
tion of officers, 398-400; revision, pay increase, 501. See also Bri-
gade majors and inspectors; Drill; Steuben; Subinspector.
Intelligence, desired from New York City, 26, 27, 104, 224, 285-287,
292, 293; from British sources, character, 256; secret-service claim,
276; caution, 354, 355. See also Spies.
Intercourse with the enemy. See Flag of truce; Intelligence; Passes;
Prisoners of war; Trade with the enemy.
Intrepid, H. M. S., at New York City, 347.
Invalids, returns on, in camp, 334; clothing, march, 342. See also Sick.
Ireland, disturbances, 122.
Irvine, Gen. James, exchange, 268, 315, 316, 443.
Irvine, Gen. William, councils of war: on campaign possibilities, 5/2, 9/2;
on Southern campaign and winter quarters, 27272,273 n; — officer of
the day, 22, 63, 82, 178, 217, 261, 282; letter to, 64/2; dinner invita-
tion declined; 64/2; at West Point, 128; bears letter, 448; as briga-
dier, 491.
Izard, Ralph, bears letter, 4; career, 4*2; Muir's parole, 155.
Jackson, Dr. David, surgeon, 218.
Jackson, Col. Henry, officer of the day, 9; at court-martial, 47, 74, 76, 96,
124, 151, 153, 270; new arrangement, commissions, 171, 269; Massa-
chusetts line, rank of officers, 197; at court of inquiry, 442.
Jackson, Col. Michael, officer of the day, 83, 185, 261.
Jackson, Maj. William, exchange, 323; service, Lincoln's aide, 323 n.
Jamaica, expedition against, 8.
Jameson, Lieut. Col. John, Andre affair, letter, 85/2, 86, 87, 91, 93 n, 9472,
173; letter to, 86.
Jay, John, gift of liqueurs, 119 n.
Jefferson, Gov. Thomas, on Camden, 18; letters to, 29, 145, 248 n, 325,
440«, 446, 450; warned of British designs, 31, 147, 190; Henry
Hamilton, 85, 148, 192, 325, 326; Detroit plans, 148, 176; Conven-
tion troops flag vessel, 326; flat boats, 326, 497; Lafayette, 440 n.
INDEX 537
Jenifer, Dr. Daniel, ability, 19.
Jennings Tavern, N. J., 274.
Jenny, flag vessel, 464.
Joel, Capt. B. Edgar, charges by, character, 256.
Johannot, William, apothecary, 218.
Johnston, Lieut. Col. Francis, officer of the day, 31, 112, 222, 301, 365.
Jones, Rev. David, complaint against Murnans, 76; service, 760.
Jones, Joseph, letter to, 18; reorganization of medical department, 18.
Jones, Samuel, court-martial, capital penalty, pardon, 222.
Jotham, , shipmaster, news, 26.
Kageler, Bernard, flag vessel, 449.
Kalb, Johann, {baron), parole honoring, 83; death, 144.
Kearse, , quartermaster, Smith trial, 196.
Keese, Maj. John, letter to, 143; express, 143; office, 14372.
Kings Bridge, N. Y., projected attack, preparations, 351, 352, 362, 363,
379-397; why abandoned, 395 n, 459; plan, 424-428; details, 428-
434-
Kings Ferry, N. Y., command, 84, 9972; status, garrison, stores, 226.
See also Stony Point; Verplancks Point.
Kings Mountain, N. C, general orders on, 258, 263; effect, 297, 308.
Kings Royal Regiment, officer, 299 n.
Knapp, Maj. Moses, officer of the day, 63, 112, 185, 257, 301, 347, 396;
service, 257 n.
Knox, Gen. Henry, councils of war: on campaign possibilities, 572, 972;
on Southern campaign and winter quarters, 27272, 273 n; - — Hart-
ford conference, 16, 43; artillery experiments, 225, 227; letters to,
227, 386, 423, 424, 445; Mason affair, letter, 231, 231 n\ artillery, to
South, 321; artificers, 340; winter quarters, 354; proposed Kings
Bridge attack, 386, 424; right to major generalship, 398; discharge
of levies, 417; arms repairs, 423; Carlisle arsenal, 445.
Knyphausen, Baron Wilhelm, place of headquarters, 26; New Jersey
advance, 33, 71; to South, 465, 469, 472, 476.
Kosciuszko, Col. Thaddeus, papers, 268.
Lafayette, Marie Joseph P. Y. R. G. du Motier, marquis de, councils of
war: on campaign possibilities, 572, 972; on Southern campaign and
winter quarters, 272 n, 27372; — Hartford conference, 16,7672; letters
to, 20, 266, 309, 392, 439, 473; guards and patrols, 20; orders court-
martial, 71; Guichen cooperation, 39; aides, 9372, 47572; camp, 141;
return from France and campaign disappointment, 142; advanced
538 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
line, 187; countersign honoring, 256; desire for an exploit, 266, 267;
summary court-martial, 309; wing command, 333; proposed attack
on Kings Bridge, 392, 426; light corps dissolved, thanked in general
orders, 402; to South, 438-440, 475; Peak's portrait, 463; Spanish
cooperation, 474; Washington on relations, 474.
La Luzerne, Anne Cesar, chevalier de, letters to, 38, 301, 476, 508;
Guichen cooperation, 38, 41; movements, 227, 301; parole honor-
ing* 2575 loan> 32I> 375-
Lamb, Col. John, letters to, 84, 990, 198; Arnold treason, 84; posts, 84,
99 »; Smith trial, 196, 198; clothing for officers, 252; composition of
regiment, transfers, 344.
Lancaster, Pa., agent for prisoners of war, 191 n; British spy, 288; winter-
ing horses, 361; dragoon winter quarters, 362, 419; specific supplies,
451 n.
Land. See Public land.
Langlois de Montheville, Denis Jean Florimond. See Du Bouchet.
Latimore, Dr. Henry, ability, 19; surgeon, 218.
Laurance, John, Andre trial, 101.
Laurel Hill, N. Y., British post, proposed attack, 383, 432-434.
Laurens, Henry, capture, 191.
Laurens, Lieut. Col. John, letters to 172, 340; on Arnold treason, letter,
173/2; exchange, 174, 315, 322; Washington's greeting, 340; return
South, 341.
Lauzun, Armand Louis de Gontaut Biron, due de, winter quarters, 180,
255, 457; Southern campaign, 322.
Laval, Anne A. M. S. J. de Montmorency Laval, marquis {due) de, at
camp, 357, 456; service, 357 n; to Philadelphia, introductions, 434,
436-
Lawrence, Lieut. Oliver, Parson's aide, 485.
Leather. See Hides.
Leave of absence. See Absence; Furlough.
Leavenworth, Ma]. Eli, officer of the day, 13; at court-martial, 33, 74.
Lebanon, Conn., Lauzun's winter quarters, 255, 457.
Ledyard, Dr. Isaac, letters to, 90 (two); Arnold's papers, 90; assistant
purveyor, 218.
Lee, Arthur, letter to, 374; Deane row, 424.
Lee, Ma). Henry, patrol, 20; post, 141; retained as independent corps,
size, 163, 278; letters to, 178, 223, 240, 300 n\ on St. Clair and
Arnold, letter, 178, 178/2; to headquarters, 178; advanced line, 187;
attempt to capture Arnold, letters, 223, 223 n; Memoirs, 223 n; to
South, horses, equipments, 239, 240, 245, 249, 312; recruiting, 311.
INDEX 539
Lee, Mary, letter to, 168.
Lee, Gov. Thomas Sim, letters to, 2, 247, 440 72; new regiment, 2; non-
state corps benefits, 61; Lafayette, 440/2.
Leslie, Gen. Alexander, Virginia expedition, 203, 230*7, 290, 290 n, 291,
298, 308, 317, 325, 466.
Lewis, Fielding, Fairfax agency, 318.
Lewis, Lieut. Joseph, letter to, 60; discharge, 360; service, 360/2.
Lewis, Thomas, headquarters account, 67 n.
Liberty Pole, N. }., movement to, 382, 385. See also Teaneck.
Library of Congress, British Transcripts, 230 n.
Light corps, Macpherson affair, in; soldiers court-martialed, 33, 96, 222;
officers court-martialed, 71, 72; in march, 140; camp, post, 141, 251;
advanced line, 187; dissolved, thanked in general orders, 402; pro-
posed Kings Bridge attack, 426, 428.
Light Dragoons. See Provost.
Lincoln, Gen. Benjamin, letters to, 27, 322, 461 ; exchange, 27, 67, 69, 136.
243, 315, 322; negotiations for general exchange, 27, 28, 60, 132,
195, 366; aides, 81 n, 323/2; return to service, 323; winter quarters,
369-
Liquor, gifts to headquarters, 1 19 n. See also Rum; Wine.
Littlefield, Lieut. Col. Noah Moulton, officer of the day, 83, 152, 261,
341, 397; pardon of soldier, 222; service, 34m; rearguard, 403.
Livingston, Col. James, regiment and West Point, 10, 106, 127; letters
to, 84, 266, 475; Arnold treason, 84; Smith trial, 196, 266; clothing
for officers, 252, 506; returns on personnel of regiment, 475.
Livingston, Robert R., Arnold and West Point, 214.
Livingston, Gov. William, letters to, 224, 369; circular to, 33m.
Long Island, American raid, 335, 416, 417, 420, 473, 477.
Loring, Joshua, exchange negotiations, 132, 134, 186, 195, 330.
Louis XVI of France, parole honoring, 81.
Lovebury, Jonathan, spy, 253.
Lovell, James, committee on Arnold treason, 93 n.
Low, Maj. Caleb, letter to, 87; Arnold treason, 87.
Loyalist, refugee corps, 260; Fairfax estate and confiscation, 318. See
also Trade with the enemy.
Luckett, Lieut. Thomas Hussey, exchange, 291; service, 29m.
Ludowick, Christopher, ovens at West Point, 169.
Lumber, scarcity, use, 486, 497.
Luttefloh, Henry Emanuel, commissary of forage, 102.
540 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Lyman, Capt. Gamaliel Dvvight, parole, 185.
Lynes, Matthew, court-martial, 188.
Mabie, Jasper, mills, 120; Andre at tavern, 120 n.
McCarthy, Charles, ship flag officer, 32.
McDonald, Capt. John, exchange, 291; service, 29m.
McDougall, Gen. Alexander, letters to, 99, 100, 181, 254; West Point
command, 99, 100, 181, 182; division and post, 127; aide, 253; dele-
gate to Congress, Washington's approval, 254, 470; committee on
promotions, 505 n.
McHenry, Lieut. Col. James, letter written by, 93 n\ acting aide to Lafa-
yette, 93/2.
McKnight, Dr. Charles, chief hospital physician, 218; clothing, 252.
Macpherson, Ma}. William, light corps affair, 1 n.
Magazine of American History, material from, 463 n.
Magazines, Southern campaign, 51; Highlands problem, 259; neglect of
stores, 283, 284; disastrous lack, 505. See also Commissary.
Major generals, Smallwood, 218; Parsons, 262; surplusage, 489. See also
General officers.
Malcom, Col. William, troops to thresh grain, 18; letters to, 59, 197, 338;
Fort Schuyler winter garrison, supplies, 59, 197, 198, 338, 415;
militia arms, 260.
Maneuvers. Sec Drill.
Maps, New Jersey Revolutionary, 274 n.
Marbois. See Barbe-Marbois.
Marcellus, John. See Marseleson.
March, unauthorized halt, resulting gap, 65; brigade commander's right
to halt, 66; orders, 73, 124, 125, 140; to winter quarters, orders, 345,
346> 352> 353. 4OI-4°3-
Marechausee corps. See Provost.
Marion, Gen. Francis, countersign honoring, 94.
Marseleson, John, house, 274.
Marshall, Col. Thomas, officer of the day, 96, 199, 264, 347; service, 199 n.
Martinique, liqueurs from, 1190.
Maryland, officers in nonstate corps, 61; ladies' gift to army, 168; quota
or regiments, 280; flour supply, 313; specific supplies, 451*2, 465.
See also next titles.
Maryland, governor of. See Lee, Thomas Sim.
INDEX 541
Maryland brigade, new regiment and recruits to South, 2-5, 30, 343;
Camden, 18, 29; returns needed, 212. See also Gist, Mordecai;
Smallwood, William.
Maryland Fourth Regiment, officer, 291/2.
Maryland Historical Society, material from, 3, 212, 248, 343.
Maryland Independent Corps, officer court-martialed, 175, 179.
Maryland Sixth Regiment, officer, 291 n. See also Williams, Otho
Holland.
Maryland Third Regiment. See Ramsey, Nathaniel.
Mason, Lieut. Col. David, dismission, 231.
Mason, George, letter to, 241; Greene, 241; Washington's warning on
disaster, 241, 242.
Massachusetts, militia with Rochambeau, 12; militia at West Point, dis-
charge, 106, 126; quota, 279; specific supplies, 45 m, 461; attitude,
461; recruiting, three year limit, 461; dragoon winter quarters,
492 n; clothing, 506. See also next titles.
Massachusetts, governor of. See Hancock, John.
Massachusetts brigades, new arrangement, errors, 170, 171, 183-185; line
of battle, 187; Jackson's regiment added, 197; winter quarters, march,
337, 346/2, 352, 401, 405, 419, 447; winter discharges, 403, 404, 417.
See also Glover, John; Paterson, John.
Massachusetts Eighth Regiment, officers, 24/2, 342/2, 497/2. See also
Jackson, Michael.
Massachusetts Eleventh Regiment, officers, 170/2, 257/2, 341 n. See also
Tupper, Benjamin.
Massachusetts Fifteenth Regiment, officers, 170/2, 333/2.
Massachusetts Fifth Regiment, officer, 257//. See also Putnam, Rufus.
Massachusetts First Regiment, officer, 72/2. See also Vose, Joseph.
Massachusetts Fourteenth Regiment, officers, 71/2, 82/2, 361/2. See also
Bradford, Gamaliel.
Massachusetts Fourth Regiment, officers, 69/2, 71/2, 333/2; post, 124.
Massachusetts Historical Society, material from, 13, 26, 47, 108, 128, 169,
181 n, 196, 216, 225, 237, 251, 253, 259, 263, 268, 299, 305, 330, 338,
343> 353» 36o> 40I> 4°5> 4l6> 4l8> 438> 454> 486> 498> 5°6-
Massachusetts Ninth Regiment, officers, 333/2, 497/2.
Massachusetts Second Regiment, officers, 72/2, 257/2, 310/2, 329/2, 341/2,
342/2, 394 n. See also Badlam, Ezra.
Massachusetts Seventh Regiment, adjutant, 13; officers, 24/2, yon, 71/2.
Massachusetts Sixteenth Regiment. See Jackson, Henry.
542 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Massachusetts Sixth Regiment, officers, 47 n, yon, 109/2, 178 n. See also
Nixon, Thomas.
Massachusetts Tenth Regiment, officers, 32;?, 10m, 17072, 257/2. See
also Marshall, Thomas.
Massachusetts Third Regiment, officers, 7222, 257/2, 333/2, 385/2; adju-
tant, 283. See also Greaton, John.
Massachusetts Thirteenth Regiment, officer, 385/2.
Massachusetts Twelfth Regiment, officer court-martialed, 319; officer,
329-
Mathews, David, and probable evacuation of New York, 104.
Mathews, Col. George, exchange, 443.
Mathews, John, reorganization of medical department, 18; letters to, 19,
113, 248; on Congress and committee of cooperation, letter, 116/2;
committees: cartel, 134/2; Washington's letters, 420/2, 444/2; — on
Greene's appointment, letter, 182/2; return home of wife, letter,
248, 248/2, 356.
Mathews, Mary, return home, British pass, 248, 248/2, 356.
Mauduit du Plessis, Chev. Thomas Antoine, at camp, 406, 415, 500; to
Philadelphia, introduction, 406; bears letter, 508; half-pay, 508.
Maxwell, Maj. Hugh, detachment, 96; officer of the day, 151, 282, 341,
380; service, 341/2.
Maynard, Lieut. Jonathan, exchange, 70; service, 70/2.
Meacham, Lieut. John, adjutant, 283; cashiered, 283/2.
Meade, Lieut. Col. Richard Kidder, letters written by, 9/2, 16/2, 38/2,
45/2, 52/2, 85/2, 90/2, 108/2, 128/2, 169/2; letters: on Ledyard, 90/2;
on Andre and Smith, 99/2; on pursuit of deserters, 123/2; — Varick
court of inquiry, 229; to Virginia, 229.
Meat, scarcity, distress, 4, 35; from privateer prizes, 24, 35; congressional
measures for supply, 105; salt, supply, care, reserve, 260, 296, 412,
438, 453, 497; for Fort Schuyler, 260, 369, 438, requisition of salt,
451 72, 465. See also Cattle; Provisions.
Medals, to Andre's captors, 133/2.
Medical department, reorganized, appointments, 18, 19, 218; issue of
medicines, 83. See also Hospitals; Sick; Surgeons.
Meigs, Col. Return Jonathan, march orders, 72; West Point, 106; post,
126, 128.
Mellen, Lieut. Col. James, officer of the day, 81, 141, 257, 333, 391; serv-
ice, 333/2.
Mentges, Lieut. Col. Francis, officer of the day, 47, 320, 365; at court-
martial, 251.
INDEX 543
Mercenaries, replacements, 217, 230. See also Convention troops.
Mercer, George, affairs, 317.
Mercury, prize, 185.
Meredith, Samuel, letter to, 17; Bank, 17.
Mettinger, Lieut. Jacob. See Mytinger.
Meydenger, Lieut. Jacob. See Mytinger.
Meyer, Lieut. Godfrey, exchange, 292; service, 292/2.
Middletown, Conn., dragoon winter quarters, 337.
Military chest. See Funds.
Military power, suggestion of Hartford Convention, 452 n.
Military science and art, march orders, 73; defensive disposition, 273,
274; plan for attack on Kings Bridge, 424-434.
Military secretaries and aides, for major generals, 81 n, 890, 937*, 253,
292/2, 323/2, 329/2, 475 n, 485; for brigadier generals, 82/2, 360/2;
special tender of services declined, 250; Baylies, 323/2. See also
Hamilton, Alexander; Harrison, Robert Hanson; Humphreys,
David; Meade, Richard Kidder; Tilghman, Tench.
Military stores, at Providence, 258; security, 285; deputy commissary
court-martialed, 492. See also Arsenals; Ammunition; Arms; Equip-
ments.
Military surveying. See Engineers; Geographer; Maps.
Militia and state regiments, for plan against New York City, dismissed,
6; Connecticut state regiments, force, 7; Rochambeau, 12; Camden,
conduct, lesson, 13, 29, 30/2, 49, 209; waste of arms, 29, 30/2; West
Point, discharge, detention, 87, 88, 99, 106, 108, 126, 196; Dobbs
Ferry, post and patrol, 130, 139; road repairs and dismissal, 169,
170; evil of dependence on, 205, 209; in exchanges, 220; Kings
Mountain, 258, 308; recovery of arms from, 260; provisions, 336;
farce of call, 458; armorers and duty, 496, 498.
Miller, John, court-martial, capital penalty, 96.
Mills, Capt.-Lieut. William, court-martial, 71; service, 71/2.
Miralles, Juan de, letter to widow, 174.
Misdemeanors. See Crimes.
Mohawk Valley, British raid, 232, 295, 312, 315; loss of grain, 295, 313,
315, 329, 338; winter communication, 423. \See also Fort Schuyler.
Money. See Paper money; Specie.
Montgomery, Gen. Richard, fall, 207.
Montmorency-Laval, Anne A. M. S. J. de. See Laval.
Moore, Elizabeth (Channing), pass to New York City, 251.
544 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Moore, James, court-martial, capital penalty, 96.
Moore, Maj. James, officer of the day, 47, 83, 186, 236, 264, 319, 347, 380;
brigade major, 63; service, 6372.
Moore, Maj. Thomas Lloyd, officer of the day, 72, 199, 302, 358, 401.
Morehouse, Andrew, headquarters accounts, 67 n.
Morey, , slave soldier, 272.
Morgan, Daniel, brigadier general, 218. y
Morgan Library, material from, 499.
Morrill, Maj. Amos, officer of the day, 83, 124; service, 83 n.
Morris, Gouverneur, letter to, 457; proposed attack on New York City,
457-459-
Morris, Robert, letter to, 154; Muir's parole, 154.
Morris, Lieut. Thomas, exchange, 54, 67, 366, 376, 449.
Morrisania, N. Y., loyalist post, 390.
Morristown, N. J., winter quarters of Pennsylvania brigades, instruc-
tions, 337, 344, 352, 369, 382 n, 406-408, 418; headquarters, letters
from, 416-424; specific supplies, 451 11.
Moulton, Capt. William, bears letter, 338; service, 338/2.
Mount Vernon, Greene at, 464.
Moylan, Col. Stephen, post and patrol, 20, 141, 251; clothing, 120; line
of battle, 187; winter quarters, 337, 419; letters to, 361, 381, 395,
441; wintering horses, 361; replacements, 362; proposed Kings
Bridge attack, 381, 382, 385, 395; dinner at headquarters, 395; re-
turns: for needed equipments, 441, 499; on Connecticut men, 441.
Mudd, Sergt. , flag vessel, 449.
Muhlenberg, Gen. Peter, letters to, 20, 202; Virginia levies, 20, 202, 203.
Muir, Capt. William, parole, 155. g
Muirson, Richard(?), conduct, commission, 416.
Mumford, Thomas, letter to, 57; wine for headquarters, 57.
Murderers Creek, N. Y., winter quarters, 353; boat haven, 486, 497.
Murnans, Maj. Jean Baptiste Gauthier de, court-martial, 33, 76.
Murray, Maj. Francis, exchange, 221, 243; service, 243 n.
Murray, Lieut. James, parole to New York City, 445.
Murray, Lieut. Col. John, officer of the day, 63, 253.
Music, desired number of musicians to regiment, 162. See also Drums.
Muster, soldiers used as servants, 265; duty of inspectors, 399.
Myers, Lieut. Godfrey. See Meyer.
Mytinger, Lieut. Jacob, convoy of prisoners, 266.
INDEX 545
Nash, Gov. Abner, letters to, 2480, 307; information, 307.
Navigation, flag vessels; with supplies for prisoners of war, 32, 52, 326,
331, 356, 447-450; for exchanged prisoners, 464. \See also next titles;
Privateering.
Navy, British, Newport and Brest blockades, 6, 28, 39, 138, 147, 322;
Rodney and fleet at New York, 490, 58, 67, 138; size at New York,
255, 347; impressment, 347; movements, 364; wintering, 447.
Navy, French, prizes, 255. See also Destouches; Guichen; Ternay.
Navy, Spanish, prizes, 255.
Neglect of duty. See Disobedience to orders.
Neill, Col. Henry, letter to, 169; dismissal of militia, 169.
Neilson, Col. John, military imposition on, no; bears letter, 212 n.
Netherlands, armed neutrality, 478.
Neutral Ground, N. Y., advanced line and patrol, 107, 127; British refu-
gee corps, 260; forage in force, ruse, 338, 350-352.
Neville, Lieut. Col. Presley, exchange, 475; Lafayette's aide, 475 n.
New arrangement. See Rank.
New England, convention, 452.
New Hampshire, militia at West Point, discharge, 106, 126; quota of
regiments, 279; specific supplies, 45m; clothing, 506. See also
next titles.
New Hampshire, president of. See Weare, Meshech.
New Hampshire brigade, West Point, 126, 133; winter quarters, 337,
401, 416, 419, 447. See also Poor, Enoch.
New Hampshire First Regiment, officers, 94 n, 2330. See also Cilley,
Joseph.
New Hampshire Historical Society, material from, 211, 332.
New Hampshire second Regiment, officer, 83 n. See also Reid, George.
New Hampshire Third Regiment, officers, 94/2, 233 n. See also Scam-
mell, Alexander.
New Jersey, Knyphausen's advance, 33, 71; impressment and distress,
35; militia at Dobbs Ferry, post and patrol, 130, 139; taverns, 274;
quota of regiments, 279; British supplies from, 314; winter protec-
tion, 369; diminishing commissary demands, 369; specific supplies,
451 n. See also next titles.
New Jersey, governor of. See Livingston, William.
New Jersey brigade, German Battalion, 64; West Point, 126, 133; winter
quarters, march, construction, 337, 359, 401, 405, 408, 409, 412, 418,
421, 422, 447, 454; clothing, 352; letters to commander, 408, 421;
problem of colonels on reduction, 490.
546 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
New Jersey First Regiment, proposed attack on Kings Bridge, 428, 429.
See also Ogden, Matthias.
New Jersey Historical Society, material from, 143.
New Jersey Second Regiment, officer, 359 n. See also Shreve, Israel.
New Jersey Third Regiment, officer, 359 n. See also Dayton, Elias.
New London, Conn., British flag vessel, 464.
New Windsor, N. Y., winter quarters, 337, 353; headquarters, character,
352, 475; letters and orders from, 434-508; specific supplies, 451 n.
New York, flour supply, for export or army, 48, 452; taverns, 120, 427,
British invasion from north, 193, 195, 216, 230, 232, 295, 303-306,
312, 322, 353; quota, 279, 296, 297, 344, 345; British supplies from,
314; winter protection of frontier, 417; specific supplies, 451/2; re-
cruiting, 452, 455; Hartford convention, 452. See also next titles;
Hudson River; Mohawk Valley.
New York, governor of. See Clinton, George.
New York, lieutenant-governor of. See Van Cortlandt, Pierre.
New York brigade, West Point, 126, 133; winter quarters, 337, 401, 417,
419, 423, 447, 454; clothing, 498. See also Clinton, James.
New York City, proposed joint expedition against: failure of materiel,
6; failure of recruiting, 6; dismissal of militia, 7; French second di-
vision, 972; Guichen expected, revival of plan, 46, 58, 79; importance
of reduction, 76, 77; requisites of successful operations, 77; Lafay-
ette's desire for attack, 267; projected attack against northern posts,
35x> 352> 362> 363> 379~397> 424~434; abandonment of this, 39572,
459; reply to proposal of winter attack, 457-459; — troops from
South, 7; force in, 7, 267; embarkations and sailings, destinations, 15,
22, 27, 29, 30, 44, 59, 172, 177, 190, 193, 195, 203, 204, 216, 224, 276,
285-287, 289, 290, 292, 298, 308, 315, 322, 326, 327, 346, 347, 364,
374, 414, 448,449^2, 455, 457, 464-466, 469-472, 476, 480, 495; in-
telligence desired, 26, 27, 104, 224, 285-287, 292, 293; Rodney's
fleet, 4972, 58, 64, 138; Cork fleet, 192, 255, 314, 358; reenforce-
ments, 217, 224, 230, 273, 308; pass to, 251; naval force and move-
ments, 255, 358, 364; supplies from neighborhood, 314; impress-
ment of sailors, 347. See also Hudson River; Long Island; Neutral
Ground.
New York Fifth Regiment. See Willett, Marinus.
New York First Regiment. See Van Schaick, Goose.
New York Fourth Regiment, officers, 25, 452; adjutant, 63. See also
Weissenfels, Frederick.
New York Historical Society, material from, 27, 84, 91, 94, 138, 199, 237,
29872, 30472, 306, 328, 34572, 391, 446.
INDEX 547
New York Second Regiment, officer, 63 n; proposed attack on Kings
Bridge, 428, 429.
New York Third Regiment, officer, 13 n. See also Gansevoort, Peter.
Newark, N. J., expected British forage, 340 n.
Newburgh, N. Y., Washington's Headquarters Museum, material from,
284 n.
Newhall, Lieut. Col. Ezra, officer of the day, 185, 270, 347, 401; service,
270 n; vanguard, 403.
Newport, R. I. See Rochambeau.
Newton, N. J. See Sussex Court House.
Nicholas, Robert Carter, Fairfax agency, 316, 318; letter to, 318.
Niven, Capt. Daniel, letter to, 463; Hudson River chain, 463.
Nixon, Gen. John, council of war on campaign possibilities, 572, qw;
resignation, 22.
Nixon, Col. Thomas, at court of inquiry, 33, 71; officer of the day, 75,
168, 257, 341, 397, 403.
Noailles, Louis Marie, vicomte de, at camp, 415, 456; to Philadelphia,
introduction, 404; service, 404 n; to South, 440; to frontier, intro-
ductions, 499, 500.
Noncommissioned officers, commissions and rank, 184.
Nonstate corps. See Additional.
North, Lieut. Col. Caleb, officer of the day, 22, 202, 282.
North Carolina, supplies, 14; quota, 280; specific supplies, 451 n, 465.
North Carolina, governor of. See Nash, Abner.
North Castle, N. Y., Connecticut state regiments, 7, 112.
Northampton, Mass., dragoon winter quarters, 492 n.
Northern department, command, 296.
Notch, N. J.( ?), post, 202, 251, 266, 267.
Number Four (Charleston), N. H, court-martial, 187; specific supplies,
451 n.
Obstruction. See Chain.
Officers, need of harmony, 2; accounts of detached, 22; regulation of de-
taching, 23; assaulted, 25 n\ unbecoming conduct, 76, 153, 271;
graft, no, 153, 271; imposition on civilian, no; illegal discharge
certificates, no, 179, 270; reprimand, in, 264; problem of de-
ranged, 158, 165, 254, 263, 279-281, 289, 378, 465, 490; required
regimental, 162, 166, 167; on recruiting service, residence in state,
162; inadequate pay, 165; cashiered, 179; general returns, 266; effect
548 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
of short enlistments on, 210; clothing, nonstate, 252, 285; special
tender of services, declined, 250; unjust charges, 265; soldier serv-
ants, 265; land bounty for deranged, 287, 290; reception of derange-
ment, 290; capture of imprudent, warning, 302; partisan dragoon,
300; recruiting bounty, 300; false muster, 334; baggage to winter
quarters, 343; uniforms, minutiae, 349, 350; winter furloughs, 408,
422; extra rations, regular drawing, 453; absent without leave, 460.
See also Continental army; Courts-martial; Courts of inquiry; Dis-
obedience; Foreign volunteers; General officers; Half-pay; Non-
commissioned officers; Prisoners of war; Promotion; Rank; Resig-
nation; Staff.
Officers of the day, assignments (1780, September), 9, 11, 13, 22-24, 31,
32, 46, 47, 49, 63, 65, 71, 72, 74, 75, 81 (two), 82, 83, 94, 96, 99,
100, 101; (October), 109, 112 (two), 113, 121, 124, 129, 140, 141,
151, 152, 168, 178, 185, 186, 199, 202, 217 (two), 222, 233, 236, 251,
253, 256, 257 (two), 261 (two), 264, 270; (November), 277, 282,
287, 288, 301, 302, 319, 320, 328, 333 (two), 341, 342, 347, 349, 358,
361, 365, 379, 380, 389, 391, 396, 397, 401; headquarters dinners, 71,
187; van and rear guards, 74; reports, 187.
Ogden, Capt. Aaron, letter to, 387; proposed attack on Kings Bridge,
387,388,392,393.
Ogden, Gabriel, ironworks, Pompton Furnace, 274 n.
Ogden, Capt. John, letter to, 340; intelligence, letter, 340, 340 n.
Ogden, Col. Matthias, at court-martial, 22; capture, 302; derangement,
490.
Old Blazing Star, Staten Island, 393.
Oliver, Ma]. Robert, officer of the day, 13, 72, 94, 99, 124, 152, 217, 257,
287; service, 72 n\ leave, 329.
Orange County, N. Y., supplies, 120 n.
Orangetown (Tappan), N. Y., headquarters, orders and letters from,
74-84, 94-97, 99-129.
Orderlies, headquarters, 142.
Ordnance department. See Arsenals; Military stores.
Otis and Henley, letters to, 119, 367; blankets from baize, 119; clothing,
transportation, 367, 368.
Otto, Dr. Bodo, surgeon, 218.
Ovens, West Point, 169.
Overalls, need of woolen, 119.
Ox teams, winter service, 407.
Oyster Bay, L. I. See Coram.
INDEX 549
Paper money, liquidation of depreciation of pay, 3, 232, 302.
Parade ground, brigade, 34; at Preakness, 142.
Paramus, N. J., road repairs, 11; headquarters, orders and letters from,
129-136, 140.
Pardon, capital offenders, 179, 222, 228, 253.
Paris Archives, Affaires Etrangeres, Etats Unis, material from, 38 72, 43 n,
301//, 47772, 50872.
Parole, significant, 47, 71, 81, 96, 188, 256, 257, 288; communicating, 188.
Paroles, breakers, excange, 69; special, to New York, 155, 185, 445. See
also Prisoners of war.
Parr, Maj. James, post and patrol, 141, 187, 202; practice of riflemen,
153; light corps, 202; letter to, 385; checking trade with the enemy,
385; retention of corps, winter quarters, 402.
Parsons, Gen. Samuel Holden, council of war on campaign possibilities,
972; officer of the day, 65; major general, 262, 398; letter to 353; to
main army, 353; division, aides, 485.
Passaic River, bridges, 274. See also Preakness.
Passes, British, to Charleston, 248, 248 n, 356; to New York, 251; abuse
in army, restriction, 303, 309, 348; from state executive, 422.
Paterson, Gen. John, officer of the day, 9, 32, 74, 96, 112, 129, 151, 186,
222, 256, 264, 288, 320, 341, 358, 379, 396; councils of war: on cam-
paign possibilities, 9/2; on Southern campaign and winter quarters,
27272, 273/2; — letters to, 183, 196, 404/2; new arrangement, errors,
183, 196, 197; discharge of levies, 40472; as brigadier, 491.
Paterson, N. J. See Preakness.
Patrol, reformation, 20; vigilance during Washington's absence, 67;
along the Hudson, 107, 127, 130, 139; in New Jersey, 141, 385;
winter, 408. See also Provost.
Paulding, John, Andre affair, reward, 92, 93 n, 133, 378.
Paulus Hook. See Powles Hook.
Pay and allowances, depreciated currency and liquidation, 3, 232, 302;
forfeit, 97; inadequate officers', 165; claim, requirements, 249; ar-
rears, 284, 374; state extra, 284; of exchanged officers, 291; surgeons,
294, 307; inspection department, 398-400, 501. See also Bounty;
Half-pay.
Peabody, Nathaniel, letter to, 48; news, 48; ill, 48.
Peace, and preparedness, 209.
Peale, Charles Willson, letter to, 463; Lafayette portrait, 463.
Peck, Frederick S., letter possessed by, 39572.
Pendleton, Capt. Daniel, court-martial, 153, 154.
550 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Pendleton, Edward, Washington's warning on disaster, 242//.
Pendleton, Lieut. Nathaniel, exchange, 292; service, Greene's aide, 292 n.
Penet, Ensign Ignatius, promotion, 410; service, 410 n.
Pennsylvania, enlistments for war, 212; specific supplies, 231, 451 n;
quota, 279, 362; flour, 313. See also next titles; Fort Pitt; Philadel-
phia.
Pennsylvania, president of. See Reed, Joseph.
Pennsylvania brigades, chaplain,-,76«; march to Kings Ferry, 84; West
Point, movements, 128, 129, 133, 140; half-pay, 159; line of battle,
186; winter quarters, instructions, 337, 344, 352, 406-408, 418, 447,
454. See also Irvine, William; Wayne, Anthony.
Pennsylvania Eighth Regiment, soldier court-martialed, 175, 179. See
also Brodhead, Daniel.
Pennsylvania Eleventh Regiment. See Hubley, Adam.
Pennsylvania Fifth Regiment, officers, 81 n, 186*2, 252*2, 292*2, 328*2.
See also Johnston, Francis.
Pennsylvania Firtst Regiment, officers, 63/2, 287*2, 347*2. See also Cham-
bers, James.
Pennsylvania Fourth Regiment. See Butler, William.
Pennsylvania Ninth Regiment, officer, 252*2. See also Butler, Richard.
Pennsylvania, Second Regiment, officers, 63*2, 186*2, 261*2, 287*2, 347 n.
See also Stewart, Walter.
Pennsylvania Seventh Regiment, court-martial, 335.
Pennsylvania Sixth Regiment, adjutant, 261.
Pennsylvania Supreme Council, Arnold court-martial, 370.
Pennsylvania Tenth Regiment, quartermaster, 287; officer court-mar-
tialed, 347*2.
Pennsylvania Third Regiment, chaplain, 76*2; officer, 252*2. See also
Craig, Thomas.
Pennsylvania Thirteenth Regiment, officer, 243*2.
Pensacola, Spanish expedition, and Southern campaig*2, 476*2, 481-484.
Peters, Lieut. Col. Andrew, officer of the day, 72, 140, 257, 380.
Pettingall, Ma]. Joseph, officer of the day, 31, 81, 109, 141, 185, 233, 261,
302> 379-
Philadelphia, specific supplies, 451 n. See also Bank.
Phillips, Gen. William, exchange, 27, 67, 6g, 135, 136, 192, 243, 269;
negotiations on exchanges, 60, 62, 132, 195, 268, 269, 330; letters to,
62, 269, 330, 448, 471; Convention troops supplies, 326, 331, 448;
supposed Virginia expedition, 346, 347, 453, 465, 469, 472, 476;
Henry Hamilton, 471.
INDEX 551
Pickering, Timothy, delay, urge, 52, 54, 55; letters to, 54, 339, 367, 379,
386, 486; general orders on appointment, 102; artificers, 339, 340;
transportation of clothing, 367; boats, 379, 459, 486, 497; wintering
horses, 380; proposed attack on Kings Bridge, 386, 387; express
accounts, 445.
Pickets, on march, 129. See also Guards.
Pilots, for French, 43, 46.
Pintard, Lewis, letters to, 330, 446; declines agency for prisoners of war,
33°> 446-
Pioneers, road repairs, 140.
Pittsburgh. See Fort Pitt.
Pittstown, N. J., magazine, 283; specific supplies, 451/2.
Plate, proposed basis for currency, 309.
Piatt, Ma]. Richard, deputy quartermaster general, 253.
Plenbrook, Haight's estate, 66 n.
Plunder. See Depredations.
Pompton, N. J., winter quarters, 337, 408, 412, 418, 447.
Pompton Furnace, N. J., 274 n.
Poor, Gen. Enoch, death, funeral, 23, 23 s; auction of effects, 34; Wash-
ington's tribute, 51.
Porter, Capt. Andrew, court-martial, 153; unwarranted charges by, 265;
service, 265 n.
Porterfield, Lieut. Col. Charles, countersign honoring, 83.
Portraits, Lafayette, 463; Frederick the Great, 463.
Portsmouth, N. H., specific supplies, 451/2.
Portsmouth, Va., British at, 290/2, 325.
Portugal, attitude, 475; armed neutrality, 478.
Post-office, army mail, 270; intercepted mail, change in route, 282, 479.
Potter, Mrs. S. C. Armstrong, letter possessed by, 293/2.
Powles Hook, N. J., trade with the enemy, 385.
Preakness (Passaic Falls, Totowa), N. J., headquarters, letters and or-
ders from, 136, 141-416; disposition in case of attack, 266, 267.
Presentations, to headquarters, delicacies, liquor, 57, 119/2.
President of Congress, letters to, 3, 14, 21, 23, 44, 49, 49 n, 91, 105, 130, 157,
175, 189, 190, 191, 192, 203, 230, 244, 263, 275, 289, 293, 311, 346,
376> 39?> 4°3> 4°4 (two), 406, 418, 435, 436, 443, 468, 477, 501; in-
troduction of French officers, 403, 404, 406, 435, 436.
Prevost, Gen. Augustine, special exchanges, 54, 6j, 366.
Pride, Lieut. Reuben, adjutant, 31; service, 31/2.
552 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Prior, Maj. Abner William, officer of the day, 129, 233, 264; service,
I29«.
Prisoners, military, recommitted, 25; trial regulations, 222.
Prisoners of war, exchange of officers, 27, 60, 62, 67, 188, 192, 195, 377;
exchange of general officers, 27, 67, 69, 135, 136, 192, 243, 268-270,
315, 322, 323; tobacco, 30; supplies to Charleston, 32, 52, 356, 436;
special exchanges, 54, 67, 174, 221, 243, 366, 376, 497; civilians at
Charleston, treatment, 128, 192, 194; proposed exchange of southern
prisoners, 132, 192, 194, 315, 322, 325, 366; proposed general ex-
change, composition, 132, 134, 186, 314, 316, 320, 324, 325, 330, 375,
377, 443, 444; Washington's exchange policy, state claims, 156, 218-
222; resident agents, 190, 190/2, 191 n, 234-236, 330, 446; civilian ex-
change, 220; by privateers, status, 221, 310; inquiry on status, 229;
exchanged officers, funds, 291; priority in exchange, 377, 475; Cana-
dians, 310; capture of imprudent officers, warning, 302; accounts
and exchange, 448; transportation of exchanged, 464. See also Con-
vention troops; Paroles.
Privateering, capture of Quebec merchant fleet, 21, 24, 35; exchange of
prisoners, 221, 310.
Prizes, Quebec fleet, 21, 24, 35; by French and Spanish, 255.
Procter, Col. Thomas, maliciously abused, 153; court-martial, 265, 266;
transfers to regiment, 345.
Promotion, date, 184; artillery and cavalry, basis, 379, 502; general offi-
cers, 397, 503-505; problem, lack of fixed principles, 488-491; pro-
posed reform, lineal basis, 502.
Providence, protection, 95; interposition, 173.
Providence, R. I., French winter quarters, 180, 255/2; military stores,
258; specific supplies, 451 n.
Provisions, scarcity, hampering effect, 7, 17, 176, 242, 327; Southern cam-
paign supply, 37, 51, 146, 147; crux of all operations, 51; general
uncertainty of supply, 59; Convention troops scarcity, relief, 145,
155; graft and neglect at Coos, 187, 199-201; illegal issues, 188;
Cork fleet for British, 192, 255, 314, 358; Fort Schuyler, 299; for
militia, 336; discharges to conserve, 403, 407, 417, 447, 453, 457, 469,
470, 495, 505; to Charleston prisoners, 356, 436. See also Commis-
sary; Flour; Meat; Ration.
Provost, camp duties, 142; line of battle, 187; guard, 222; officer, 266/2,
rearrangement of army and position, 333, 400. See also Von Heer,
Bartholomew.
Public debt. See Foreign loan; Paper money.
Public land, bounty to officers, 287, 290.
Pulaski, Count Casimir, legion to Armand, 311.
INDEX 553
Punishments, capital, as example, pardon, reprieve, 33, 175, 179, 222,
253, 335, 485; restitution, pay forfeit, and dismissal, 97; officer
cashiered, 179; example as purpose, 228. See also Crimes; Prison-
ers; Reprimand; Whipping.
Purveyor, medical, 218.
Putnam, Col. Rufus, detailed men, return, 11, 48.
Quartermaster department, criminally delayed funds, 24, 25; validity of
certificates, 51, 54-56; returns on property, 82. See also next titles;
Baggage; Commissary; Express; Forage; Magazines; Quarters;
Staff; Transportation.
Quartermaster general, deputies, 88 n, 143 n, 144 n, 187, 253; general
orders: on Pickering's appointment, 102; on Greene's services, 102.
See also Greene, Nathanael; Pickering, Timothy.
Quartermasters, brigade, special accounts, 64; appointment, 334.
Quarters. See Tents; Winter quarters.
Quebec, merchant fleet captured, 21, 24, 35.
Quinn, Daniel, Pennsylvania soldier, 348.
Raids, British, on New York northern frontier, 193, 195, 216, 230, 232,
295, 303-306, 312, 322, 353; American, on Long Island, 416, 417,
420; British, in Connecticut feared, 495, 496, 506. See also Mohawk
Valley.
Ramapaugh Bridge, 274.
Ramsey, Lieut. Col. Nathaniel, exchange, 69, 135, 220, 363; letter to,
363; return to service, 363.
Randolph, Edmund, letter to, 316; Mercer affairs, 317.
Rank, and appointment to light corps, in; new arrangement: Massa-
chusetts, errors, 170, 171, 183-185; Connecticut, 171; — officers of
Jackson's corps in Massachusetts line, 197. See also Promotion.
Rankin, James, loyalist, 288 n.
Rankin, John, loyalist, 288 n.
Ration, officers', limited, 251; of nonactive officers, subsistence money,
253, 263; Canadian refugees, 276; regulations, 401; regular drawing
by officers, 453. See also Cooking; Fuel; Provisions.
Rawdon-Hastings, Francis. See Hastings.
Rawson, Ensign Jonathan (Jeduthan) T., court-martial, 72.
Reading, Pa., dragoon winter quarters, 337.
Recruiting, clothing and arms needs, 372, 202, 299; failure in 1780, 6;
Virginia line, 20; nonstate corps and state quotas, 53; need of draft
for war, evils of short terms, 113-117, 122, 137, 146, 164, 205-211,
554 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
242, 246, 317, 328, 371, 437; detention of troops until replaced not
practical, 115; state systems condemned, 117; regimental recruiting
officers with state residence, 162; for rearranged army, data, prompt
transmission to states, 166; artillery, 203; circular to states, filling for
war, 204-212, 478; slaves, 272; for war ordered, 279, 280, 300, 317,
328, 371; allowance to officers on service, 281; state quotas for 1781,
296, 297, 344, 345, 437, 441, 442, 452, 455; partisan legions, 311;
winter instruction of levies, 407; state divergence from wartime
orders, 461, 478; cavalry data, 506; expected activity, 507. See also
Discharges.
Reed, Pres. Joseph, Wayne, in; letters to, 108, 213, 288, 370; flour
scarcity, 108; death of wife, Washington's condolence, 109; Arnold,
213, 370; circular to, 331 n.
Reed, Esther (De Berdt), death, 109.
Reeves, Lieut. Enos, quartermaster, 287; service, 287 n; court-martial,
347, 348-
Refugee Corps, loyalist, 390.
Regiments, of rearranged army, size, 157, 162, 164, 278, 279; required
officers, 162, 166, 167; proposed cavalry, 163; artillery, 164; control
of reduction, 165; state quotas, 279. See also Additional; and by
number and name of state.
Reid, Lieut. Col. George, officer of the day, 31, 112; at court-martial, 199.
Reid, Ma]. James Randolph, officer of the day, 11, 33; at court of in-
quiry, 49, 359, 442; detachment, 63; letter to, 306; rank, 306; case,
454, 485.
Reily, , flag vessel, 449.
Religion. See Chaplains; Providence.
Rendon, Francisco, Spanish agent, 174; letters to, 177, 276, 364, 476;
Florida operations, letter, 177, 476 n.
Reprieve, for capital penalty, 485.
Reprimand, of officers, in; of staff officials, 201, 264.
Requisitions. See Specific supplies.
Resignation of officers, actual and supposed, data, 166; fear of crippling
effected, 167; prevalence, 191, 211.
Returns and rolls, French force, actual and needed, 6, 57, 77, 78; Amer-
ican force, 7, 56, 160-162; British force, 7, 161, 267; war enlistments,
33; unemployed armorers, 64; quartermaster department property,
82; needed tents, 102; status of troops, 152, 183; needed shirts, 201,
202; needed shoes, 233, 380; all officers, 266; nonstate officers for pay
depreciation liquidation, 302; clothing for exchanged men, 320; in-
valids in camp, 334; needed dragoon equipments, 436, 441, 442, 456;
INDEX 555
Connecticut men, 441, 442, 444; supply and need of clothing, 460;
personnel of reduced regiments, 475; fit for duty, 494; arms and am-
munition, 494.
Reynolds, John, clothing issue, 284.
Rhode Island, line troops in, 7; French winter quarters, 12; quota, 279;
pay of levies, 284; military stores, 285; specific supplies, 45172. See
also next titles; Newport; Providence.
Rhode Island, governor of. See Greene, William.
Rhode Island brigade, reorganization, union of regiments, 285, 415; win-
ter quarters, 416, 419, 447.
Rhode Island First Regiment. See Greene, Christopher.
Rhode Island Second Regiment. See Angell, Israel.
Rice, Maj. Nathan, officer of the day, 32, 81, 112; Lincoln's aide, 8172.
Richards, D. W., acknowledgment to, 336/2.
Richmond, Va., Greene at, 464.
Riedesel, Fredrich Adolph, baron von, exchange, 27, 69, 135, 136, 192,
243, 269.
Rifle corps, post and patrol, 141, 187; practice, 153; to light corps, 202;
winter retention, 402.
Ringwood Iron Works, N. J., specific supplies, 451 n.
Roads, repairs, detail, 11, 335, 367; for marching, 140; by line and mi-
litia, 169, 170.
Robertson, Gen. James, letter to, 102; Andre, 102, 103, 111/2, 131, 13472.
Robinson, Lieut. Col. Thomas, officer of the day, 186, 349; service, 186/2.
Robinsons House, N. Y., headquarters, letters from, 84-94, 97~99-
Robinsons Mill, N. Y., winter quarters, 337, 401, 416.
Rochambeau, Donatien Marie Joseph de Vimeur, vicomte de, return to
France, 290, 414; service, 290/2.
Rochambeau, Jean Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de, force, actual
and needed, needed funds, 6, 57, 77, 78; second division, blockaded,
hope of arrival, post, 6, 8, 9/2, 34, 39, 57, 457, 481-484; militia,
works, 12; winter quarters, 12, 180, 255, 357, 457; letters to, 15, 28,
44> 45> ?7> *5°> r72> *79> 2l6> 255> 29°> 34x» 347> 357> 4X4> 456> 471*
480; failure of cooperative plan, reasons, 15, 35, 150, 267; Hartford
conference, substance, Washington's answers to queries, 16, 42-45,
48, 51, 76-80; declines winter union on Hudson, 56, 80, 437; pos-
sible British movement against, American counter, 59; express, 143,
415, 457, 477; American line troops with, 151, 228, 285, 410, 415,
444; siege artillery, 172, 179; countersign honoring, 257; Washing-
ton on relations, 275; tampered despatches, 332; officers on visits,
556 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
343> 357> 397> 4°3> 4°4> 4o6> 4X5> 434~436> 456> 477> 499> 500> 5°7;
Spanish cooperation, 474; Washington on southern cooperation,
480-484. See also Ternay.
Rodney, George Brydges, baron, fleet at New York, 49 n, 58, 64, 138;
sailing, destination, 289, 291, 346, 347, 364.
Rolls. See Returns.
Romeyn, Rev . Dirck, letter to, 286; intelligence, 286.
Rooney, Peter, court-martial, capital penalty, 96.
Rosekrans, Ma). James, acting brigade inspector, 13; service, 13 n; offi-
cer of the day, 63, 83, 113.
Rosenbach, Abraham S. W., acknowledgments to, 19/2, loon, iSin,
254 n, 299 n.
Ross, , of Virginia, plot, 358.
Rudolph, Capt. Michael, equipments for Lee's corps, 245.
Rugely, Ma). Henry, letter to, 194 ».
Rum, need, impressment, payment, 12, 147, 171; graft at Coos, 200, 201;
requisition on states, 451 n, 465.
Russia, armed neutrality, 122.
Rutland, Mass., prisoners of war, exchange, transportation, 324, 341,
464; clothing for them, 464.
Rutledge, Gov. John, letter to, 36; at Philadelphia, 36; military plans
after Camden, 36-38.
Ryerson, George, house, 274.
St. Augustine, Fla., Spanish plan, 481, 484.
St. Clair, Gen. Arthur, councils of war: on campaign possibilities, 5«, gn;
on Southern campaign and winter quarters, 272 n, 273 n; — West
Point command, instructions, 99, 106-108, 126, 128; Andre, 100;
letters to, 106, 128; Arnold's treason, 178; wing command, 187, 251;
quarters, 222.
St. Eustatius, news, 255.
Salt, requisition on states, 45 in, 465.
Sandwich, H. M. S., at New York, 255, 290, 291, 347.
Sappers and miners, at West Point, 127; and rearrangement of army,
312.
Saratoga, N. Y., post, 419.
Savannah, Ga., British force, 7.
Scammell, Col. Alexander, letter to, 392; proposed attack on Kings
Bridge, 392; resignation as adjutant general, 419.
Schenectady, N. Y., winter post, 417, 419, 423.
INDEX 557
Schoharie, N. Y., British raid, 232, 313.
Schraulenburgh, N. J., forage certificate, 154.
Schuyler, Philip, Arnold, 214, 370^; Washington's commendation, 214;
as member of committee of cooperation, 215; letter to, 304; British
raid, 304; Ethan Allen, 304, 305; on lack of paper, letter, 305 n.
Scott, Gen. Charles, Virginia officers under rearrangement, 465.
Scott, John Morin, committee on supplies, 106 n.
Scott, Dr. Moses, surgeon, 218.
Sea power, essential to campaign plans, 6, 8, 34, 40, 57, 76, 118, 151, 507;
and southern plans, 483.
Second Artillery, officers, 10 n, id^n, 334 n, 485. See also Lamb, John.
Second Dragoons, officer, 93 n. See also Sheldon, Elisha.
Secret service. See Intelligence; Spies.
Servants, soldiers as officers', 265.
Seventeenth Light Dragoons, British, officer, 355*2.
Sewall, Capt. Henry, jr., acting brigade inspector, 329; service, Heath's
aide, 329 «; officer of the day, 333, 365, 397.
Sharpe, Dr. James Boyd, court-martial, 264.
Sharpe, William, committees: Southern campaign, 245 n; Canadian
refugees, 276 n.
Shaw, Capt. Daniel, pilot for French, 43; letter to, 44 n.
Shaw, Nathaniel, letter to, 445; express accounts, 445.
Shaw, Samuel, letter written by, 84 n.
Sheild, Dr. Thomas, Hamilton's papers, 53.
Sheftall, Sheftall, flag master, 356.
Shelby, Col. Isaac, Kings Mountain, 258.
Sheldon, Col. Elisha, West Point post, 127; Arnold's treason, 131, 131 n;
court-martial, 141, 270; court-martial of soldier, 253; letters to, 332,
410, 444; express, 332, 444; winter quarters, instructions, letter, 337,
410, 411, 419, 491-494, 496; proposed attack on Kings Bridge, 390,
427, 428, 430; replacements, 411, 437, 506; returns on needed equip-
ments, 444, 491, 499.
Shepherd, William, armorer, 496, 498.
Sherman, Lieut. Col. Isaac, officer of the day, 63, no, 124, 253, 328, 389;
vanguard, 125.
Sherman, William, flight, 339.
Shippen, Dr. William, jr., medical director general, 218.
Shirts, ladies' gift, 168; returns on need, 201, 202; issue, 253. See also
Clothing.
558 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Shoes and stockings, returns on need, 233, 380; issue, 253, 330. See also
Clothing; Hides.
Shreve, Col. Israel, officer of the day, 81 ; letters to, 435, 486; winter quar-
ters, 435; detachment, 487; retention in service, 490.
Sick, on march, 73, 124; to flying hospital, 201. See also Hospital;
Invalids.
Sidmans Clove, N. Y., 408.
Sill, Lieut. Col. David Fithian, officer of the day, 24, 112, 217, 288.
Simcoe, Lieut. Col. John Graves, exchange, 218.
Skinner, Abraham, negotiations for exchanges, 28, 67-70, 132, 135, 186,
188, 195, 243, 268, 269, 324, 325, 330; letters to, 67, 135, 185, 243,
268, 324; movements, 188; appointed commissary of prisoners of
war, 218; Canadian prisoners, 310.
Slaves, recruiting without master's permit, 272.
Slote, The, rum, 12.
Smallwood, Joseph, wagoner, court-martial, 25.
Smallwood, Gen. William, parole honoring, 94; major general, 218, 398.
Smith, Maj. David, officer of the day, 65, 94, 253, 277, 328, 358, 391;
service, 328 n.
Smith, John, British spy, 288.
Smith, Joshua Hett, Arnold's treason, 90, 90 n, 92, 93 n, 94; in custody,
97, 99 n, 100; military trial, to West Point, 196, 198, 262, 263, 266;
escape from civil authorities, 262 n.
Smith, Thomas, shipmaster, 32.
Smith, Thomas, Arnold's treason, 90, 225, 226.
Smith, William, Arnold's treason, 90 n.
Smith, Justice William, Andre, in», 131, 134/2.
Smith, Rev. William, letter to, 348; Washington's election to American
Philosophical Society, letter, 348 n.
Smith, Lieut. Col. William Stephens, officer of the day, 49, 121, 320, 380;
rearguard, 125; letter to, 289; retirement, 289; propostd Kings
Bridge attack, 425, 427.
Smith's Clove, N. Y., winter post, 337, 408, 418, 421, 454.
Smiths Tavern, N. Y., 427.
Snead, Capt. Smith, exchange, 291; service, 29m.
Sochet des Touches. See Destouches.
Soldiers Fortune, N. Y., 337.
Solomon, Hendricks, with army, visit to Philadelphia, 44.
INDEX 559
South Carolina, supplies, 14; quota, 280; artillery regiment, 378. See
also Camden; Charleston; Southern campaign.
South Carolina, governor of. See Rutledge, John.
Southern campaign, more troops to, 2-5, 8, 9, 30, 469, 472, 476; British
force (September), 7; arms, lack, 26, 189, 321, 322; supplies, scarcity,
transportation, urge on southern states, 14, 37, 51, 146, 147, 189,
247, 450; possible plans, French and cooperation, Guichen, sea power,
14, 15, 38-43, 79, 379, 480-484; plans after Camden, British ad-
vance, 36-38, 137, 138, 146, 148, 176, 189, 216, 217, 230; necessity
of regular force, size and purpose, 50; inexpediency of more troops
to, 52, 272, 273, 308; fear, 118; British policy of severity, 147, 147/2,
192, 194; Greene's appointment, reception, ability and task, instruc-
tions, 181, 182, 189, 215, 216, 237-241, 244, 246-249, 308, 464, 469;
British reenforcements from New York, Leslie in Virginia, 216,
224, 230, 230/2, 272, 276, 290, 291, 298, 308, 317, 325, 346, 347, 448,
449 »» 455> 465> 466> 471* 48o> 495> 5°7; artillery, 243, 321; Steuben,
238-241, 245, 308; Lee's corps, 239, 240, 245, 249; opportunity, 248,
308; Kings Mountain, 258, 263, 297, 308; British retirement, 297,
317, 325, 327, 414, 507; proposed subscription, 321; portable boats,
321, 326, 447, 497; Greene's flying arm)', 321, 321/2; Lafayette, 438—
440; Florida and Spanish cooperation, 474, 481-484; British policy
of activity, 480. See also Camden; Charleston.
Spain, Florida operations, cooperation, 148, 151, 177, 474, 476, 476/2,
481; prizes 255. See also West Indies.
Specht, Gen. Johann Friedrich von, exchange, 156, 268-270, 324.
Specie, in plan to capture Arnold, 22372, 224; for intelligence, 224, 255;
light weight, 224; proposed use of plate, 309.
Specific supplies, for Fort Pitt, 231; delinquency, failure, 259, 462; requi-
sition, tardiness, 371, 450, 451, 465; Virginia, for southern opera-
tions, 450. See also Commissary.
Speculation, in clothing, 372.
Spencer, Ensign Hazleton, as prisoner of war, 299.
Spencer, Col. Oliver, officer, 60/2; brigaded, 64; clothing, for officers, 252,
506; returns on personnel, 475/2.
Spies, instructions on desired information, 26, 104, 224; Culpers, 61, 203;
British, capital penalty, 253; invisible ink, 255; fear of Arnold's
knowledge, 267; British, to Lancaster, 288; Howell case, 355, 356.
See also Intelligence.
Spinhouse, Anthony, court-martial, capital penalty, 335.
Springfield, Mass., court-martial, 199; Mason's dismissal, 231; clothing,
367, 368; specific supplies, 451/2.
Springfield, N. J., action, Angell's conduct, 32, 71.
560 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Staatsburgh, N. Y., militia wood cutting, 87, 88.
Stacey, Lieut. Col. William, exchange, 69; service, 690.
Staff, punishment for waste and graft, 9; necessary regimental, 162. See
also Adjutant general; Adjutants; Chaplains; Clothier general;
Commissary; Engineers; Inspector general; Intelligence; Medical
department; Military secretaries; Muster; Ordnance department;
Provost; State clothiers; Quartermaster department.
Stagg, John, letter to, 120 n.
Staria, John, British spy, 288.
Stark, Gen. John, council of war on campaign possibilities, 572, 972; offi-
cer of the day, 49, 81, 113; to West Point, 126, 133; letters to, 381,
441; proposed Kings Bridge attack, 381;?, 390, 396; furlough re-
fused, 441; as brigadier, 491.
Starr, Col. Josiah, officer of the day, 22, 282, 361; ill, 23.
State clothiers, returns on supply, 202; deliveries and reports, 453, 460;
material, 506.
State regiments. See Militia.
Staten Island, ruse and proposed Kings Bridge attack, 393-395; Sulli-
van's attack, 501.
States, control over line deprecated, 165, 491; circulars, 204, 331, 450.
See also Recruiting; Specific supplies.
Steenrapie, N. J., headquarters at, letters and orders from, 1-74.
Stein, Ma\. Johann Friedrich v on, exchange, 221, 243.
Stephenson, Col. Hugh, rifle regiment, officers, 291 n, 292 n.
Steuben, Gen. Frederick, W. A. H. F., baron von, council of war on cam-
paign possibilities, 572, 972; countersign honoring, 81; bears letter,
174; to Philadelphia, departmental reforms, 175; to South, line
command, 238-241, 245, 454; on finances, 321; letter to, 454.
Stevens, Lieut. Col. Ebenezer, letter to, 353; winter quarters for artil-
lery* 353> 354-
Stevens, Nathaniel, on New York flour, 452.
Stewart, Charles, on flour scarcity, letter, 105, 10572; contact on supplies,
120; ovens, 169; and waste, 283, 284.
Stewart, Col. Walter, light corps court-martial of soldier, 96.
Stirling, Gen. William Alexander, lord, councils of war: on campaign
possibilities, 572, 972; on Southern campaign and winter quarters,
27272, 273/2; — letters to, 20, 391; guards and patrol, 20; wing com-
mand, 187; quarters, 201; proposed Kings Bridge attack, 391.
Stock. See Cattle.
Stockbridge Indians, with army, visit to Philadelphia, 44.
INDEX 561
Stockings, need of woolen, 119. See also Shoes.
Stocks, ladies' gift, 168.
Stoddard, Dr. Darius, malicious charges, court-martial at his expense,
271.
Stoddert, Benjamin, on clothing needs, 372.
Stony Point, N. Y., status in case of attack, 107, 196; oven, 169.
Straggling, prevalence, 303, 309.
Strength of forces. See Returns.
Strouds, for coats, 506.
Subinspector, West Point, 10.
Subscription, proposed for Southern campaign, 321.
Suffern, John, post at place, 418, 421.
Sullivan, John, committees: supplies, 106; exchanges, 13422; Southern
campaign, 245 n; Washington's letters, 400 n, 420 n, 4440, 505 n; —
letters to, 371, 397, 488; Washington on relations, 371; on French
movements, letter, 374 n; Staten Island attack, 501.
Sumner, Lieut. Col. John, officer of the day, 99, 178, 264, 342.
Sumner, Gen. Thomas, operations after Camden, 137.
Supplies. See Commissary.
Surgeons, appointments, 218; clothing, 252; reduced, and half-pay, 293,
294, 307; pay, 307; agreement on retirement, 423.
Survey. See Military surveying.
Sussex Court House, N. J., specific supplies, 451 n.
Suza de Beer, Dr. Francis, exchange, 70; service, 70 n.
Swartz, William A., acknowledgment to, 293 n.
Swettenham, Capt. George, parole to New York, 445.
Swift, Col. Heman, at court-martial, 71, 96.
Talbot, Maj. Jeremiah, officer of the day, 22, 253, 287, 342, 389; at court-
martial, 74.
Tallmadge, Maj. Benjamin, letters to, 61, 203, 224, 255, 292, 354, 416;
Culpers, 61, 203; Andre, 9472; intelligence, caution, 224, 255, 292,
293> 354' 3555 Oyster Bay exploit, thanks of Congress, 333, 335,
336, 416, 417, 420, 473, 477.
Tallmadge, Ensign Samuel, adjutant, 63; service, 6372.
Tappan, N. Y., tavern, 120. See also Orangetown.
Taverns, New York, 120, 427; New Jersey, 274.
Taxation, need, 246.
Taylor, Lieut. Col. Richard, post, 202.
562 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Teaneck, N. J., patrol, 20. See also Liberty Pole.
Teisseydre, Francois Louis. See Fleury.
Telfair, Edward, letter to, 53.
Temple, Lieut. Col. Benjamin, at court-martial, 141.
Tents, returns on needs, 102; for guards, 113; chimneys, precautions, 152.
Ter Bush, John, headquarters accounts, 6772.
Ternay, Charles Henri d'Arsac, chevalier de, force, 6; blockaded, 6, 28,
39, 138, 147, 322; letters to, 16, 64, 480; American officers for, 17;
Hartford conference, 17, 42-45, 51, 76-80; second division expected,
preparations, 29, 34, 43, 46; proposed winter quarters, 56, 80; neces-
sity of reenforcement, 77, 78; troops as protection, 80, 437; coun-
tersigns honoring, 81, 257; proposed southern cooperation, 480-484;
death, 481 n.
Terrible, H. M. S., at New York, 290, 291, 347.
Theft, trial, 271. See also Graft.
Thompson, Gen. William, exchange, 243, 268, 271, 315.
Thomson, Thomas, foragemaster, court-martial, 96.
Three Pigeons, N. J., 384, 385.
Throop, Ma], Benjamin, officer of the day, 46, 10 1, 256, 288; furlough,
302.
Tichnor, Isaac, court-martial, 199.
Ticonderoga, N. Y., British force, 313.
Tier, Daniel, letter to, 1200.
Tilghman, Lieut. Col. Tench, letters written by, 572, 11 72, 13/2, 1772,
l872, 2072-2272, 3172, 3872, 4372, 4772, 4872, 5472-5772, 6072, 6l 72, 6472,
10072, I0672, IO972, II272, II972, 12072, I2872, I2972, I3872, I43W,
14572, 15672, 17272, 17772, 19072, 19472, I9672, 19872, 20372, 20472,
21 1 72, 212 72, 22472, 22672-22972, 23272, 23472, 23672, 23772, 240/2,
24572, 24972-25172, 25372-25572, 26l72, 26672, 26872, 26972, 28172,
28272, 28472, 28572, 28972, 29272, 29472, 29872-3OI72, 30472-30772,
31772, 32372-32572, 32772, 33072, 33172 33372, 33672, 33872-34O72,
342 72-34772, 35372, 35472, 35672-35872, 36072, 36272, 36572-370/2,
37972, 38172-38472, 38672, 38772, 38972, 39172, 39272, 39572, 39672,
40172, 40472, 40572, 41072, 41272, 41672, 41872, 42172-42472, 435#,
43672, 44172, 44472-44672, 44872-45172, 45472, 45672, 45772, 46672,
47172, 47272, 48472, 48772, 49272, 49372, 49672, 49872-50072, 50672;
letters on secret service, 28672, 28772.
Tillard, Maj. Edward, exchange, 291; service, 291 72.
Tilton, Dr. James, ability, 19; surgeon, 218.
Tobacco, for prisoners of war, 30.
INDEX 563
Tools, repairing roads, 170; building huts, 354.
Torrey, Ma]. Joseph, officer of the day, 9; detachment, 13; regimental
command, 360; service, 360 n.
Totowa Church, N. J., 266. See also Preakness.
Townsend, Dr. David, ability, 19; surgeon, 218.
Tracy, Nathaniel, and Co., clothing, 368.
Trade with the enemy, supplies for New York City, 314; New Jersey,
385.
Transportation, lack in South, 146; necessary impressment, 147; ox
teams for winter, 407. See also Communication; Ferries, Horses;
Navigation; Roads; Travel; Wagoners.
Travel, mail route Philadelphia to New England, 479.
Traversie, Capt. Joseph, claim, 276.
Treason, charges from British source, 256. See also Arnold, Benedict.
Treat, Dr. Malachi, chief hospital physician, 218.
Triumph, H. M. S., at New York, 347.
Trowbridge, Lieut. Luther, adjutant, 13.
Trumbull, Gov. Jonathan, salt meat, 59, 260, 296, 369; letters to, 260,
282, 368, 437, 464, 493, 495, 506; circular to, 331 n; transportation of
clothing, 368; dragoon replacements, 411; recruiting, quota, data,
437, 441, 442, 444; exchanged prisoners, 464; interference with
winter quarters, 491-494, 496; fear of British designs, 495, 496, 506.
Tryon, William, Howell, 355.
Tudor, Maj. George, officer of the day, 81, 217, 261, 328, 365; service, 81 n.
Tupper, Col. Benjamin, officer of the day, 24, 112, 217, 288, 365; road
repairs, 140; pardon of soldier, 222; Hudson River chain, 298.
Turner, Dr. Philip, surgeon, 218.
Uniforms, officers, minutiae, 349, 350; impossibility, 462.
Union. See Continental Congress; States.
Valley Forge, Pa., peril of period, 206.
Van Cordandt, Lieut. Gov. Pierre, letter to, 262.
Van Dyke, Capt.-Lieut. John, status, 53.
Van Dyke, Nicholas, committees: Arnold's treason, 93 n; supplies, 106 n.
Van Houten, Cornelius (Robert), house, 274.
Van Laer, Capt. William, officer of the day, 49, 199, 270, 320, 349, 389.
Van Rensselaer, Gen. Robert, British raid, 295.
Van Schaick, Col. Goose, arms in hands of militia, 260; at court of in-
quiry, 359.
564 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Van Wart, Isaac, capture of Andre, reward, 92, 93 n, 133, 378.
Varick, Lieut. Col. Richard, Arnold's aide, and the treason, court of in-
quiry, 89, 93 n, 225, 228-230; letters written by, 17272, 20472; letter
to, 228.
Varnum, James Mitchell, in Congress, 470; committee on Washington's
letter, 50572.
Vermont, flour supply, 48; British intrigue, 304—306.
Verplancks Point, N. Y., status in case of attack, 107, 196; oven, 169.
Vimeur, Donatien Marie Joseph de. See Rochambeau.
Vimeur, Jean Baptiste Donatien de. See Rochambeau.
Virginia, British invasion, Leslie, Phillips, 16, 29, 31, 147, 190, 203, 230,
23072, 277, 290, 291, 298, 308, 317, 325, 346, 347; Henry Hamilton,
136, 144, 148, 185, 193, 325, 471; necessary war measures, 246; quota,
280; Fairfax estate, 318; specific supplies, 450, 45172, 465. See also
next titles; Convention troops.
Virginia, governor of. See Jefferson, Thomas.
Virginia brigades, levies to replace, arms, clothing, 8, 20, 30, 146, 202;
difficulty of reforming, captured officers, 465. See also Muhlenberg,
Peter; Scott, Charles.
Virginia Eighth Regiment, officer, 29172. See also Wood, James.
Virginia Eleventh Regiment, officers, 20272, 29272.
Virginia Fourth Regiment, officer, 29172.
Virginia Ninth Regiment, soldiers court-martialed, 175, 176, 179; offi-
cers, 202 72, 291 72. See also Gibson, John.
Virginia Second Regiment, officer, 291 72.
Virginia State Library, material from, 450.
Virginia Third Regiment, officer, 29172.
Von Heer, Capt. Bartholomew, returns, state credit, equipments, 53, 456,
499; proposed Kings Bridge attack, 382, 392; letter to, 456.
Vose, Lieut. Col. Elijah, at court of inquiry, 33; officer of the day, 96,
168; at court-martial, 185.
Vose, Col. Joseph, officer of the day, n, 101, 217, 277, 358.
Vulture, H. M. S., Arnold's flight, 85, 89.
Wade, Col. Nathaniel, letters to, 85, 89; Arnold's treason, West Point
command, 85, 89.
Wadsworth, Jeremiah, letter to, 310; Canadian prisoners of war, 310.
Wagoners, court-martial, 25; draft from line, 83, 102, 152, 217, 270;
graft, 97.
INDEX 565
Wagonmaster, appointment of field officer as, 102.
Waite, Maj. Jason, officer of the day, 94; service, 94 n.
Walbridge, Ma]. Ames, detachment, 82; officer of the day, 99, 141, 236,
277> 333> 3795 service, 333/2.
Wales, Lieut. Ebenezer, court-martial, 460; service, 460/2.
Walker, Capt. Joseph, at court of inquiry, 442; Parson's aide, 485; serv-
ice, 485/2.
Wallop, Capt. Henry, exchange, 173.
Walton, George, letters to, 53, 366; committee on Southern campaign,
245/2; special exchanges, 366.
Walton, Mrs. George, sister, 366/2.
Ward, Artemas, committee on Washington's letter, 400/2.
Warner, Col. Seth, British invasion from Canada, 230/2, 338; letter to,
338; officer, 338/2; general furlough, 339; regiment reduced, 339;
pay arrears, 339; paymaster, 339; recruiting accounts, 339.
Warrants. See Accounts.
Warren, Mrs. , Kosciuszko's papers, 268.
Warren, Dr. John, surgeon, 218.
Washington, George, movements, 48, 51, 58, 66/2, 71/2, 81, 84/2, 98, 99/2,
133, 418, 435, 435/2, 450; and visit to Europe, 142; election to Amer-
ican Philosophical Society, 348, 349. See also Commander in chief.
Washington, Ensign George Augustine, letters written by, 94/2, 99/2.
Washington, Martha, at headquarters, 480; Mrs. Greene, 480.
Watchword. See under General orders references.
Waterbury, Gen. David, exchange, 268, 315.
Waterbury, Conn., Washington at, 66 n.
Watkins, John W., candidacy for geographer, 386.
Wayne, Gen. Anthony, letters to, 1, 129, 344, 380, 386, 406, 434; Wash-
ington on relations, 1; Macpherson affair, 1; and Reed(?), 1; coun-
cils of war: on campaign possibilities, 5/2, 9/2; Southern campaign
and winter quarters, 272 n, 273 n ; — officer of the day, 1 1 , 46, 75, 1 52,
IQ9> 233> 257> 27°> 30I> 328> 342> 36l> 38o5 brigade major, 63; posts,
movements, 107, 126, 128, 129; winter quarters, instructions, 344,
352, 406; proposed Kings Bridge attack, 380, 381; Watkins, 386;
French officers, 434, 435; as brigadier, 491.
Weare, Pres. Meshech, circular to, 331/2.
Webb, Col. Samuel Blatchley, exchange, 6g, 135; officers, 249/2, 291/2,
467/2.
Weeks, Reuben, spy, 253.
566 WRITINGS OF WASHINGTON
Weissenfels, Lieut. Col. Frederick, officer of the day, 32, 113; frontier
service, clothing, 193, 195, 216, 296, 299.
Welch, James, court-martial, capital penalty, 96.
Welles, Capt. Roger, letter to, 467; boat guard command, instructions,
467, 468, 486; service, 467 n.
Wells, Lieut. Col. Levi, letter to, 112; return to state control, 112.
Weltner, Lieut. Col. Ludowick, letter to, 487; dispersal of battalion, 487.
West Indies, Jamaica expedition, 8; cooperation with operations, Wash-
ington's power, 14, 41; Rodney's return, 289, 291; hurricane, 457.
West Point and Highlands, N. Y., British threat, precautions, offset, 10,
237; deputy adjutant general and sub inspector, 10; cannon from, 47;
salt meat, 59; Arnold's treason, measures to frustrate, 84-89, 92 n,
94, 98, 99, 150, 151; militia and line garrison, 87, 88, 99, 106, 108,
133, 196; letter to commander, 98; temporary command, 99; artil-
lery command, 99; flour, scarcity, supply, 100, 108, 295, 298, 313,
329, 413; St. Clair to command, instructions, defense measures, 106-
108; Dobbs Ferry as outpost, 107, 139; winter quarters, huts, march,
I25> I27> 336> 337> 346> 346«> 352> 36o> 40I> 4°5> 4I0> 4X5> 4l6> 4J9»
447, 454; Greene to command, instructons, 125-128, 133; construc-
tion of works, 127; returns on force, 143, 183; ovens, 169; Heath to
command, instructions, 180-183, 216; Arnold and command, 214;
winter protection, 273 n; provisions magazines, 259; forage in force
as ruse, 338, 350-352; French officers at, 343; specific supplies, 451 n;
water guard, 459, 467, 468.
Whipping, as military punishment, 25.
White, Capt. Hatfield, brigade major, officer of the day, 46, 112.
White, Capt. Moses, officer of the day, 82; service, Hazen's aide, 82 n;
paymaster, 360.
White, Adj. William, promotion, 13.
White Plains, N. Y., forage to, 350; post, 381 n, 390.
Whiting, Lieut. Col. Daniel, officer of the day, 46, 121, 236, 319; rear-
guard, 125.
Whiting, Francis, Fairfax agency, 319.
Wigglesworth, Col. Edward, clothing, 368.
Wiley (Wyllys), Maj. John, officer of the day, 49, 82, 112, 121, 202, 257,
319, 361; service, 82/2; rearguard, 125; at court-martial, 141.
Wilkinson, James, letter to, 120; ordered to army, 120.
Willett, Lieut. Col. Marinus, to frontier, 193, 195; letter to, 254; relief,
254-
Williams, David, capture of Andre, reward, 92, 93 n, 133, 378.
INDEX 567
Williams, Col. James, Kings Mountain, death, 258.
Williams, Col. Otho Holland, countersign honoring, 83.
Wine, for headquarters, 57.
Winslow, Maj. Nathaniel, officer of the day, 32, 152, 391; service, 32 n;
detachment 101; at court-martial, 185.
Winter quarters, French army, 12, 56, 80, 180, 255, 357, 457; West Point
as logical site, construction, 125, 127, 336, 360, 401, 415, 418, 447,
454; council of war on site, 273; expected suffering, 323; instruc-
tions, march, 342, 344-346, 352, 405-409, 435; artillery, prepara-
tions, 353, 354; protection of New Jersey, instructions, 369, 412, 421,
422; patrol, 408; dragoon, state interference, 410, 411, 486, 491-494,
496.
Women, in march, 73; ladies' gift to army, 168.
Wood, Col. James, Washington's commendations, 145, 155, 156; letters
to, 155, 268, 324, 445; exchange of Convention troops officers, 268,
324-
Woodbridge, Maj. Theodore, officer of the day, 11, 71, 96, 121, 151, 202,
256, 282; furlough, 334; service, 334/2.
Woodson, Maj. Tarleton, exchange, 291; service, 291 n.
Wooster, Capt. Thomas, letter to, 249; service, 249 n; tender of services
declined, 250.
Wyllys, Capt. John Plasgrave, exchange, 291; service, 291 n.
Wyllys, Col. Samuel, at court-martial, 65; officer of the day, 71, 141, 333.
Wyoming, Pa., specific supplies, 451/2.
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