Title: To George Washington from John Mathews, 1 October 1781
From: Mathews, John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir,
                     Philadelphia Octr 1: 1781

                  Although I am well convinced your time must be occupied by very important objects; Yet I presume you will not regret the few moments employed in the perusal of the following interesting advices lately received through the most authentic channel.
                  "After the retreat of Mr Cumberland from the court of Madrid, that court, finding itself relieved from the embarrassments created by that gentleman’s residence there, immediately accepted the proffered Mediation of the two Imperial courts, and in conjunction with the Court of Versailles declared that although they were perfectly desirous of proceeding on the negotiations for restoring peace among the belligerent powers, Yet as a preliminary to the commencement of this important business; they should peremptorily insist on the admission of an American Plenepo. to a seat in the Congress proposed to be held.  The two mediators represented this demand to the Court of London, to which a futile, & evasive answer was returned.  The earnestness of the Mediators to bring forward a business which they had so much at heart, & in which all Europe appeared so deeply interested, made a second representation on this head.  To which, the following answer, after much delay, was given.  That the demand on the parts of France & Spain, were totally inadmissible on the part of the Court of London, that her rebellious subjects must be left to herself to be dealt with in such manner as she should think proper, & that as soon as France thought fit to dissolve the connexion she had formed with her revolted subjects, she was both ready, & willing to order her Ministers to open the negotiations.  That this insolent reply had been treated with a becoming resentment by the Court of France.  That the way to negotiation was still kept open, ’tho there was no probability of any thing effectual being done, untill the end of the campaign, which would eventually govern G. Britain in the part she is then to act.
                  "It is recommended to us in the most pointed terms to make every effort in our power towards a vigorous campaign in the ensuing year, that we might be fully prepared to prosecute the war with becoming ardour, if it should be found necessary.  That from the obstinacy of G.B. this will most likely be the case, unless she should receive some very severe blow in the course of the present campaign.  That it is expected the very liberal and substantial aid afforded us this year, will place our finances on such a footing as will enable us to arrange our affairs in such manner as to give a sufficient degree of vigour & decision to the future operations of the war.  That France is determined to fulfill her engagements to us in their utmost extent, that her late conduct has sufficiently evidenced her affection for us, by even far exceeding, what had been stipulated on her part.  That she hopes her allies will feel a like disposition on their part, & that it will be manifested by suitable exertions for bringing to a speedy & successful determination the present war.  (Here follow some matters, which I do not think would be prudent to trust to a plain letter) Through another channel, it is said G. B. industriously propagates by her emissaries at the several courts of Europe, that it is her fixed determination, never to give up an inch of America; whilst she can command a guinea to carry on the war."
                  There appears a degree of arrogance, petulence, and Gasconade through the whole conduct of this corrupt, and infatuated nation, that is truely ridiculous.  Beyond all doubt, the stake she is contending for, is of the last consequence to her.  Therefore, she will leave nothing unessayed to carry her point.  True, but when the seventh year of war, & every other expedient, has only served to exhibit a far greater digree of imbecility, than either of the preceeding ones, it is presumable, their dear bought experience, would produce more moderation, and plyability.
                  It appears most likely the fleet will not remain on our coast after the operations in Cheasepeak are over.  This is a very unlucky circumstance; for I am clearly of opinion, that if Chs Town could be taken this winter it would conclude the war.  Many corroborating circumstances serve to give weight to this opinion.  However, as this is not likely to be effected, a political manuvre may be made on this object, that may be productive of important consequences.  If your Excelly should succeed against Cornwallis—which you have all good mens most hearty prayers for—& your victorious army should then move towards Chs town, it would make a very deep impression on a British parliament, for, so severe a blow, as the loss of Cornwallis’s army must be to them, they will scarcely consider the probability, or improbability of its success.  But every effect capable of being produced from an army just tryumphant where little danger was apprehended & consequently flushed with its success, then bending its course against another most important object, must add fresh cause for apprehension to minds already appaled, & induce in them a serious consideration of the probable consequences of this new danger, which may create a moderation, they have hitherto been averse to, & may end in the undissembled overtures for peace.  This is the political view, in which such a manuvre strikes my mind, & I draw my conclusions from what appears lately to have been the disposition, of a very respectable number in the British parliament on a motion of Chs Fox’s, which when brought to a vote, received an accession of at least thirty votes, to what similar motions had ever produced.  If then the consequences of the battle of Guilford could cause such a secession from deep rooted venality, what effect must such substantials, & probable misfortunes, as I have above alluded to, be productive of?  I think the chance is much in my favor, when I say, a very desirable one, I mean, a serious disposition for peace.
                  Least you should not, through any other channel obtain it, I inclose you the paper with Mr Fox’s speech, & motion.  It is replete with the keenest satire, wit, & humour, & I am sure will afford you a half hour’s amusement.
                  I beg your Excellencys pardon for having taken up so much of your time, but the subject was interesting; which has led me into a prolixity, I did not intend, at my first setting out.
                  I should not have trusted so much to paper as I have done, were it not for the favourable opportunity that offers by Dr Oliphant, whom I beg leave to recommend to your Excys notice.
                  May the Supreme Being protect your valuable life, through the dangers you are about to encounter.  And may his Guardian Angel attend to crown you with Laurel.  And believe me to be, My Dear sir, with the most perfect Esteem & Regard Yr most Obedt servt

                     Jno. Mathews


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 1 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                     Dear SirHead Quarters before York 1st Octo. 1781

                  I use the present Opportunity to return to you the Bill drawn in my Favor on Messrs Richards & Compy of New London—not having had an Opportunity to present it for Payment.
                  Your Note of the 18th I have received, with your Letter directed to Major Genl Greene—the first good Opportunity will be improved for its, conveyance. With great Regard & Esteem I am Dear Sir Your St

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 1 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                  Dr sir

                     Head Quarters 1st Octo. 1781

                  Colo. Harrison of the Artillery, who will deliver you this—is going to Philadelphia on public Business, important to the general Service—as the Southern Department to which he belongs has been long destitute of Money—I shall be very glad if you can furnish him with a Sum sufficient for his Expences & that of another Officer who will be necessary on this Occasion. I am &c.

                     G.W.

                     P.S.  Being Informed that Genl Lincoln did not receive any Money at the Head of Elk, I have at his earnest Request & for his particular Relief, given Warrants for Pay to him & his two Aids for One Month each, which he will inclose to you.


Title: From William Stephens Smith to Timothy Pickering, 1 October 1781
From: Smith, William Stephens
To: Pickering, Timothy

                     Sir,
                     Head Quarters Octor 1st 1781

                  The General requests you will immediately take the necessary steps to alter the route of the Express riders, instead of its being continued thro’ Richmond, they must pass from the Boling Greene to Todds Bridge & cross at Ruffins ferry.  I am Sir Yours &c.

                     Wm S. Smith
                     A.D. Camp


Title: To George Washington from William Stuart, 2 October 1781
From: Stuart, William,Anderson, James
To: Washington, George

                     May it please Your ExcellencyCamp 2d Octobr 1781

                  We the Subscribers Officers in General Hazens Regiment, Trusting in your known desposition to an equal desposal of justice to all your Army beg the liberty of representing to your Excellency what we Suppose to be a grieviance of the highest Nature—Capt. Anthony Selin having been introduced into the Regiment: as we Suppose very unjustly causes much discontent among us—He is a Gentleman almost a Stranger to us, perhaps as worthy of your Attention as any in the Army, but Admitting that to be the case we cannot Sit easy under his command as we conceive ourselves justly entitled to companies many months before we heard of the name of Selin—And altho we have been favored with your Excellencys orders directing all Vacancies to be filled up, we have not participated in the Advantages which should have resulted to us from the execution of that order; from what cause it has been procrastinated we are not able to determine—all we request of your Excellency is that you would be pleased to order an inquiry to be made into the propriety of Capt. Selins Appointment to command us, and that if we are entitled to promotion we may meet the reward of our long Services—fully relying on your Excellencys equitable decisions, we beg the liberty of Subscribing ourselves. Your Excellencys Most Obedient and very Hble Servants

                     James Anderson
                     William Stuart


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 2 October 1781
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Freehold 2d October 1781

                  Your Exclys Letter dated Head Quarters Williamsburgh Sepr the 24th was handed to me Yesterday, And so most heartily congratulate Your Excly on the so happy According of the greate variety of circumstances toward the deduction of Lord Cornwallace’ forces in that Country and ardently wish every prospect may continue to brighten untill that extensive plan so happily laid by you may be terminated to its utmost bounds.
                  Since I had last the honr of Writing to Your Excly I am informed from New York that Cutters have been dispatched to all the British water ports to call into Sandy Hook every line of Battle Ship on the various American Stations & that it is the better opinion that Adml Grieves will at all events risque another Naval engagement with the Count de Grasse—I am also Informed that it seems allowed on all hands that Lord Cornwallace cannot be suckerred by way of the Chesepeak unless that the Count de Grass will again run out and fight the British Fleet—but that should the Count refuse to Come out of the Bay they will then land there Troops at a Southern port The name I have realy forgot by which means his Lordship will receive Certain supports—how practable sutch a scheam may be your Exclys thorough knowledge of that Country will enable you to determine—Adml Graves most assuredly is now Exerting every Nerve to restore his Fleete for Action again and what as well as the above Accts induces me to belive they will again attempt the relieveing of Lord Cornwallace exclusive of the ruinous consequences to there Cause in America in case he should fall is That the same Troops that have allready been Twice embarked for that purpose are still Continued on Statin Island and the Same Transports laying ready to take  add to that Genl Clinton’s Baggages has been very positively asserted to be shiped and not relanded.
                  Yet in oposition to my Accts it is said the Governors of New Jersey and Pensylvania have Accts that Genl Clinton Made  an Attack on Philada through this State and in consequence of these information have made every consederable preparations for opposing him—As your Excly will doubtless have those very Accts that have so allarmed them you will determine with ease on the probability of it—I think it not improbable that Genl Clinton may direct The troops on Statin Island to make a running Excursion into Jersey for the purpose of collecting a supply of fresh Provision for the Navy and I dare to say that 7th is the extent of Sr Harry views
                      at prest in this Country—Should he Attempt Philada he must as it were subscribe to the reduction of Lord Cornwallace as I think it must be obvious to every person that Genl Clinton has not force to garrison New York and attempt boath the Southern expeditions, the suckering his Lordship I presume he dare not fore go whilst there is the most distant hopes.
                  The London of 96 guns that I informed your Excly has three of her guns dismounted and her Main mast wound Nearly as well repaired as these Circumstances at New York will admit—I have no doubts but that a Qr pound Ball went through her mainmast and so badly wounded it as to make it necessary to put in a New one Could they have got one proper for her—They have however fished the Wound and she will go to sea with it.
                  There prest Naval force at New York is Twenty four Ships of the Line—They say that five Ships of the Line are Expected from the West Indies, four from Hallifax and three or four the residue of Adml Diggby Fleete.
                  The 30th of Sepr five Ships of War Sailed from Sandy Hook to the Southward There  for destination I cannot positively asertain, Two of them are of 40 or 50 guns each the other three smaller Frigates and supposed to observe the Motions of the Count de Grasse.
                  Should any Important movement come to my knowledge your Excly may depend on the earliest Accts.  I have the Honr to be Your Exclys Most Obdt Humble Servt

                     David Forman


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 2 October 1781
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Philadelphia Octr 2d 1781

                  Major Lemagne having left Col. Armand’s Legion there is a Vacancy of a Major & I have mentioned to Col. Armand to whom your Excellency devolved the Authority given you to officer the Corps by Congress, that Capt. McLean would be a suitable Person to fill the vacant Majority.  I have since seen McLean who is desirous of reentering the Service if it can be done with any Degree of Propriety.  The Objections to his entering into any other Corps or Line I conceive do not lie to his coming into Armands as it cannot be considered so much newly arranged as renewed by a second Creation & not much Attention has been paid to the Returning of the former Officers.  McLean was compelled to Leave the Service by some Desagreement well known to your Excellency & as his Merit is so well known the Corps would derive much Advantage from his Capacity to procure Men as well as to command them—& the Introduction of more American Officers would take off the Objections many Natives of America have to enlisting into it.  I have wrote to Col. Armand who left Philadelphia before the Matter could be adjusted & take the Liberty of troubling you with this to bespeak your favourable Notice of anything which may be represented to you by Col. Armand on the Subject so far as you choose to interfere.  I have the Honnor to be with the most perfect Respect & Esteem Your very obedt Servt

                     Richard Peters


Title: To George Washington from Francisco Rendón, 2 October 1781
From: Rendón, Francisco
To: Washington, George

Privated

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia Octr 2nd 1781

                  I have Just now received a Letter from Don Bernardo de Galvez, Commander of His Majesty’s forces in the Province of Luisiana & Florida, acquainting me with his desire of employing the forces under his Command in the most effectual manner against the Common Enemy & of being able to favour by his Operations those which the Combined Armies may undertake at the Southward of this Continent.  He desires me earnestly to keep well informed of the State & progress of Military Operations here, & of the measures which may be adopted for the recovery of Such parts of the Southern States as are now invaded by the Enemy, he recommends me to transmit him the information I shall be able to procure on this Subject with the greatest Secrecy & dispatch that he may Speedily determine on the Ultimate Plan of his Operations, & I am authorized to Send him an advice Ship, if I can find no immediate opportunity for the Havana: I have thought indispensably necessary to dispatch immediately an Express to Your Excellency, to lay before you the dispositions of General Galvez, & entreat you to put it in my Power to Send him Such intelligence as may enable him to form Effectual Plans to press the Enemy on all Sides & bring them Sooner to the terms of an honorable Peace, which is a Common Object to us all.
                  Inclosed I have the honor to transmit to Your Excellency a Copy of a Letter from the Same General to Admiral Count de Grasse, respecting the Capitulation of Pansacola.  I am happy thereby to have it in my Power to Convince you that the Friendly disposition of the Spanish Nation towards America is by no means altered. & that they have at heart the Success of these United States as much as their own.
                  I beg Your Excellency will detain the Express as Little as possible.  I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Sir Your Excellency’s Mo: Obed: & Mo: Hum: Servt

                     Francisco Rendon


Title: To George Washington from James Mitchell Varnum, 2 October 1781
From: Varnum, James Mitchell
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia 2d Octr 1781

                  Your Excellency is well acquainted with the natural and political Situation of the Island of Bermuda.  For many Reasons I have tho’t a Conquest of that Island necessary.  Its Inhabitants are generally friendly to the united States, and are loudly dependent on them for Subsistence.  It was intended to be annexed to them when the Treaty of Alliance was formed with France.  Should it be ultimately annexed, will form an excellent Barrier against naval Operations in a future War:  But should the British strenuously insist upon retaining some Possessions, in a general Pacification, in Consequence of then holding Posts, such as New York &c., it may be necessary to silence their Claim by Composition:  In that Case the Island might be ceded.  Our Commerce is greatly annoyed by the Privateers which rendesvous there; A Conquest might relieve us from that Inconvenience & convert it into a Place of Arms for our own Vessells.  As we have politically debarred the Inhabitants from all Correspondence or Commerce, their Necessities will oblige them to cruise for our Provision Vessells: Their Island is every way calculated to annoy us in that Respect.  I have made myself fully acquainted with the Strength, Defences, & Resources of the Place: I am confident that five hundred Men, aided by three or four Frigates, would be fully sufficient to take the Island; & that Number would be sufficient to garrison it, could they have six Weeks to fortify themselves, previous to an Attempt to dislodge them.  They should have six Months Provision, Artillery, Amunition, & some spare Arms, as two Battalions might be raised from the white and black Inhabitants.  To give them a Time for fortifying the Place, the Expedition should not begin ’till after the Fleets have gone to the West Indies.  It is not probable any serious Attack could then be made upon them ’till next Fall.  I have not mentioned this matter to Congress: It should be on the Point of Execution previous to such an Intimation, if possible.  I am very anxious to know your Excellency’s Opinion upon the Subject previous to any Arrangements respecting it.  If you should incline to the Measure, whether it will be best to detach a Continental Battalion, or raise other Troops for the Purpose?  Whether it will be best to furnish the Stores &c. from the public, or by individual Adventurers?  And if French Frigates can be employed in the Co-operation?  The Gentleman who bears this is perfectly acquainted with the Island.  By the best Intelligence we have been able to obtain, the British lost two seventy fours, the Vengeance and Terrible, in Consequence of the late Ingagement with Count de Grasse, Had the Princessa, a seventy, totally disabled, & four other Line of Battle Ships, very much injured.  Sir Henry Clinton has made some Demonstrations towards an Attack in New Jersey or Pennsylvania; Militia Camps have been formed:  Such Precautions are at least excusable, perhaps necessary.
                  We have attempted to elect a Secretary at War—Genls Greene, Lincoln & Knox are in Nomination; all the Votes for one or other of those Gentlemen.  We effected nothing.  Tis said Genl Greene cannot be taken from the Army, considering the southern Situation: I wish your Excellency would say who can be appointed with the greatest Propriety.  I have the honor of being Sir, with every Sentiment of Respect and Esteem, Your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble Servt,

                     J.M. Varnum

                     P.S.  Judge Burke of South Carolina will deliver this letter.

                     J.M.V.


Title: To George Washington from George Weedon, 2 October 1781
From: Weedon, George
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Camp Ware Church Octobr 2d 1781

                  I have the honor of your Excellencies Dispatch 30th Ulto before York I should have Addressed you yesterday, but was on a foraging Expedition from four in the Morning till very late in the afternoon.
                  The Conduct of the enemy yesterday convinces me their design in continuing at Gloucester is mearly to keep a door open.  I moved the Legion of Lauzan with Colo. Innis’s Brigd. Consisting of 3 Battalions and Webbs Horse as a covering party to our Waggons.  We Formed within 3/4 of a mile of Town, drove, or rather scared in their pickets, reconnoitred within 600 yards of their works, and continued upwards of two hours on the ground, not a man dare venture out the whole time.  We left small parties of Horse to observe their motions and gain Intelligence if possible, they continued so close that could learn nothing from the Patroles.  Three Deserters came out on Sunday, they agree in their Accounts which Inclose, I have Stationd a lay of Horsmen from Perrins House to Camp, The House stands at the mouth of Sarigs Creek, and commands a full view of Glo’ster, York, and all their Shiping.  The Accot on Sunday, was from a man stationd at that place, the Boats made mention of, I fancy were refugees and Marchants getting out of York.  Every piece of Intelligence shall be immediately communicated.
                  What gives me reason to believe, that they continue their Garrison at Gloucester for certain purposes, is their not risquing a man out of their lines, since our parties meet, the 24th Inst.  Lord Cornwallis could surely find Business for 800 men more in his lines, were they not Continued Detached for important purposes, & as they do not get an Ounce of Forrage or provisions from the Country, what purpose can they be for, but to Cover a Crossing from York.  I am now happily relieved from any fears, of any thing Independent of the main Army penetrating through this County. As Genl de Choisie with his Troops Arrived yesterday, & was joined by 400 men from Loudoun about the same time.  Shall now advise an Instant Advance as low down as Abington Church which is the Nearest Position we can take for want of water.  I would beg leave to Suggest to your Excellency the propriety of sending some Artillery into this Quarter; We have not a single Field piece to our whole Troops except two small Canon belonging to the Duke, not more than two pounders.  I have the honor to be with real respect and Attachmt Yr Excellencies most Obt Servt

                     G. Weedon

                Enclosure

                           c. September 1781

                     Sunday this day and Ingagement Betwen the Bretes and our Men Witch held about half an hour Both Cannon & Small arms Verry Clost our men drove Them in Their Works and I belive Bagnet them Verry much By What I could Se with my glass Constant firinga fyring from Every Quarter the Shiping fyring When They Se our men runing at them theirs Ca Tents wall most under The hill their men is Coming to glouster as fast as They Can over in The flat Bottom Boats to glouster Sems as They Want to Steal amarch They air Cuting Their acuting Their horses throuths at york.
                     Well Witchers to the E. Ur States They have Sunk Severel of their Shiping.

                Enclosure

                           1 October 1781

                     Information of a Hessian Deserter.
                     80 Regt15076150Sr Hereditary100Queens Rangers200Infantry100Horse80 Regt Horse30Hessian Yagers6026 SickSailors100890Men
                     The 28th Regt Hereditary left Gloster & crossed over to York.The Examination of a Horse Man stationed this day at Mr Perrins. 1 Octr.  Observed 5 Vessells Sunk in the River. many Boats passed & repassed but with few Men in them; one loaded with Bags from a Waggon supposed to Forage going to York: Many of their Tents pitched in the Valley before Dr Pope’s House.
                     The Examination of Chas Bowman a deserter from Col. Simpcoe’s Regt left their Line on the 24th at Night with his Arms.  he says they have near 1200 Effective Men & 70 Horse.  that Col. Simpcoe commands: that they never have foraged for the last 10 days further than 3 Miles: that their Magazine of Corn does not exceed 500 Barrells, very few Beefes, not exceeding 20. that the report in their Camp was that they had 4 Months of Salt provision, were served with full Rations.  they were preparing three more Fire Ships,  the Foy to be for one: Their Works are near finished, consisting of a chain of Redoubts with strong Abbatis & are now employed in getting large Trees supposed for a Magazine & Wood for Fewell.
                     The Examination of That Templar of the same Corps, correspond exactly with Bowman’s.
                     Saml Willson of the same Corps a dragoon says their Force does not exceed 600. that there is full 100 proper Dragoons; he heard the Q. M. observe their Magazine of Forage wou’d not last above a fortnight.The Works not compleat.


Title: To George Washington from George Weedon, 2 October 1781
From: Weedon, George
To: Washington, George

                     Dr Genl
                     Gloster Courthouse 3 P.M. Octor 2d 1781.

                  The Inclosed wase intended for your perusal early this morning; but Genl de Choisie wishing to write stoped the Express till he viewed the intended position in the Neighbourhood of Abington Church, from whence we have only this Moment Returned.  The Troops will move down in the Morning, Our force will be about 2200 Infantry, and the Dukes Cavalry, with the Militia Horse under Colo. Webb a mounting to about 40—This will be adequate I hope to any thing short of Lord Cornwallis’s main body; We have nothing from the lines to day of an enteresting Nature, the lookouts at Perrins report they discover many more Horses thrown down the Banks on the York side, than were there Yesterday & Boat loads of men passed from Gloster to York since Morning, And Simcoe’s Horse are now kept near the point. And on the Beach.  I wrote your Excellency this morning that the Enemy had not been out since the 24th But After our return last Night, They stole out at Dark with some Waggons, and Loaded them with the green Corn (Stalks & all together) from the first Cornfield.  Our Patroles of Horse fell in with them about 10 OClock exchanged a few shot, on which they pushed into within their lines.  I have the honor to be with Great respect & Esteem Yr Excellencies most Obt Servt

                     G. Weedon


Title: To George Washington from Claude Gabriel, marquis de Choisy, 3 October 1781
From: Choisy, Claude Gabriel, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                     Sir 8bre 3th 1781
                     after noon at 3 o Clock.

                  I have the honnor to inform you that by our arrival at Saoul’s tavern we have met with the ennemi who was in number about 500 men Cavalry and Infantry, that the Cavalry at the Duc of Lauzun has attaqued them, pierced throug and that we have had a great advantage on them we can esteem they have 30 men Killed or Wounded the 2 hundred men grenadier Americains who were the only Infantry advanced enough to have part in the affair and who have behaved exeedingly well have Killed one officer who was at the head of the Infantry of the ennemi.  t’is a general report that Tarleton has been wounded.  the ennemi have retired to glocester and we are quietly in our Camp where I expect you will join to morrow as we have already agreed.  I have the honner to be your Most humble servant

                     Choisy


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 3 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                      3d Octo. 1781

                  I have to thank your Excellency for the letter with which you honored me the 2d inst: and observe that the deciding reason with Your Exelly against passing the Enemys posts on York River is the apprehension of the number of fire ships which might be employed against the Vessels detached on that service; more especially as your Fleet is illy provided with the means of frustrating attempts of this nature—It is mine to propose, and Your Excellencys part to decide in naval affairs, and whatever determinations may be taken it will always be with pleasure that I shall acknowlege the eminent services that you have rendered to the common cause on the American station.
                  The Count Rochambeau has communicated to me Yr Excellencys proposal to send one or more naval officers to observe the motions of the Enemy in York River, their experience with Yr Excellencys instructions will certainly be very advantageous, and I shall be anxious thro their channel & all others to transmit every intelligence worthy your attention, and the sincere expressions of attachment & respect with which I do myself the honor of inclosing to Yr Excellcy a letter from Philadelphia and some further accounts of the british naval Loss; Your Excellencys humanity & generosity of sentiment relatively to Yr Enemies claim an Admiration equal to that which is inspired by your military virtue.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Sim Lee, 3 October 1781
From: Lee, Thomas Sim
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Annapolis October 3d 1781 In Council

                  In Consequence of your Excellency’s Requisition of the 15th of September, the Executive of this State contracted for a Quantity of Entrenching Tools, and Yesterday sent, under the Care of Captain Stephens of the Artillery,
                  107 Shovels.
                   40 Spades.
                   54 Pick Axes, with a Parcel of Augers and other Tools; and there is a good Prospect of forwarding, in a very little Time, a much larger Number, with some Dozens of Axes and Hatchets.
                  It is very desirable to know as soon as possible, where the Cattle collected on the Eastern Shore, shall be sent to, and whether the Commissary General of Purchases has determined to have them slaughtered and salted in Bulk, for the Conveniency of Transportation; or, if practicable to take them by Water alive, what Place or Places he will point out to have them collected.
                  It is very probable there may be many empty flour Barrels entirely useless at Camp: Colo. Stewart will direct such to be sent by the Vessels returning to the State; it may be a Means of facilitating our Efforts to supply your Excellency with Flour, and will tend greatly to accelerate the Removal of it to Head Quarters.  We have the honor to be sentiments of very great respect & Esteem Your Mo. Obedt Humble sert

                     Tho: S: Lee


Title: From George Washington to George Weedon, 3 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Weedon, George

                  Dear Sir,

                     Head Quarters 3d Octo. 1781

                  Your three Letters of Yesterday are received—& I feel myself obliged by your Care & Attention.
                  Some Cannon are already ordered for your Side of the River.
                  As Genl Choicey is an Officer imediately under the Comand of the Count Rochambeau—my Orders in future will pass to him, thro’ the Count.
                  I shall be obliged to you notwithstandg to keep a constant Correspondence with me, & to advise me of every Occurrence worthy the Consideration—with much Regard & Esteem.


Title: To George Washington from George Weedon, 3 October 1781
From: Weedon, George
To: Washington, George

                     My dear Genl
                     Camp Ware Church 3 Octr 1781

                  I had the honor to communicate to your Excellency last Night our intention of advancing this Morning, & taking a position in the Neighbourhood of Abington Church; for the want of Waggons, only the first division could be forwarded today,  the rest of the Army move in the Morning.  I had Intelligence last Night at 11 oClock of the Enemies being out, & communicated my information to the Duke & Genl de Choisie requesting my advance Corps might be supported with Horse.  The Duke moved very early, & by the Gallant conduct of that distinguished Officer soon supported, & in an operation with Mercer’s Grenadiers drove in & totally routed the Enemy.
                  I have the Honor to enclose your Excellency the General’s Letter, & have to congratulate your Excellency on the success of this our first allied effort.  To make our Co-operations as diffusive as possible, had formed a Light Corps of 2 Battalions of Infantry, one of Grenadiers (under the Command of my old Officer Col. Mercer) with Webb’s Horse; the Whole forming a Brigade under the immediate direction of Col. Innis; Those, I with the polite approbation of the Duke, annexed to his Legion.  The rest of the Militia compose the left Wing of Genl de Choisie’s Army & encamp in Line, are, under my Command.  I have done every thing in my power to facilitate our Service, & hope we now shall be able to pay such attention to this department as meets your Excellency’s approbation.  The Enemy have made a practice of passing in their Boats from Gloster 20 Miles in our Rear & plundering the Inhabitants.  I have this afternoon detached a Battalion to protect & cover the Country & if possible strike them: I hope the designs of the Expedition will be fully answered.  Nothing of Importance from my lookouts today.  I have the Honor to be with respect & attachment Your Excellencies Most Obt Servt

                     G. Weedon


Title: General Orders, 4 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters before York Thursday October 4th 1781
                     Parole Gaudaloupe.
                     C. signs. Dunkirk. Newport.

                  For the day tomorrow
                  Major General LincolnLt Colonel AdamsMajor WyllisB.M. CoxThe order of the 5th of July last respecting the assembling of the General Officers and heads of Departments at Head Quarters at 2 oClock is to be strictly attended to.
                  The Quarter Master General is now and upon every changes of position to furnish the General with the Return of the Quarters of the General Officers (when they are out of Camp) and those of the Heads of Departments, that there may be no difficulty in sending to them.
                  The order for keeping the men constantly supplied with two days Provisions, especially of Bread, is to be strictly observed.
                  Every Deserter from the American Troops, after this public Notice is given who shall be found within the Enemies lines at York, if the place falls into our hands, will be instantly Hanged.
                  All fresh parties of Militia and others coming into Camp are to be immediately reported at Head Quarters.
                  Commanding Officers of Brigades and Corps are desired to make report as soon as may be of the Officers Non Commissioned Officers and soldiers of their respective Commands that have been killed or wounded since the Arrival of the Army on this ground.
                  In future all officers commanding parties on any kind of duty are desired to make a return of their killed and Wounded to the General Officer of the day as soon as they are relieved, that he may insert the same in his Report to the Commander in Chief.
                  The General Congratulates the Army upon the brilliant success of the Allied Troops near Gloucester--He requests the Duke de Lauzan to accept his particular thanks for the Judicious disposition and the decisive Vigour with which he charged the Enemy—and to communicate his Warmest Acknowledgements to the Gallant Officers and men by whom he was so admirably seconded—He feels peculiar satisfaction at the inconsiderable loss on our part, that no ill effects are to be apprehended from the Honorable Wounds which have been received in this affair--and that at so small an Expence, the Enemy amounting to six hundred Horse and foot were compleatly repulsed and Reconducted to their very lines.
                  The Corps of the Allied Army were the Duke de Louzerns Legion and the Militia Granadiers of Mercer.
                  The following is the list of our killed and Wounded, and as far as can be gathered of the Enemies—The Duke de Louzerns Legion had three Hessians killed—Captains Billy Dillon and Dutester with eleven Hessians Wounded (the Officers very slightly)—three Horses killed and four wounded.
                  The Enemys loss in killed and Wounded exceeds Fifty including the Commanding Officer of the Infantry killed, and Colonel Tarlton badly wounded.
                  Permission may be granted to the sutlers to sell liquors and refreshments to the Army under such regulations as the Quarter Master General shall establish: upon complyance with which they will meet with due incouragement, and protection in their persons and property.
                  6 Caps 12 Sub. 18 serjeants and three hundred Rank and file from Waynes Brigade for Picquet this Night.
                  Covering party the Maryland Brigade, to Parade as usual.  For making Fascines Tomorrow, Hazens Brigade: to parade at six in the Morning on their own parade, where they will receive orders.
                  Four hundred men from the Militia properly Officered to parade Tomorrow Morning 6 oClock in front of Lawsons Brigade, to make Fascines &ca as they will be directed.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 4 October 1781
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

                     Philadelphia 4th Octr 1781

                  Accept my Dear General my warmest Congratulations on the Glorious Events which have taken place & which as they resulted from the wisdom of your measures & the noble manner in which you Executed them reflects a lustre upon your Conduct which must rejoice your Friends & entitle you to the applause & gratitude of the present & of future generations.  As among the officers sent from the southward to this Town on March there are some who servd with me in Georgia I came to Town to be prepared as well as possible to defend myself against the undeserved Persecution set up against me & tho’ I labour under Capital disadvantages many of those who know my activites & the motives of them being Either dead, so remote, or so despersed that I can not avail myself of their Testimony yet I flatter myself that Even by the Fragment of Evidence which I can Collect here, I shall be able to set at Defiance the whole Manner of my adversaries, tho’ I think it hard that after such a length of time Congress should permit them then to call upon Me.  As I hope the Marquis will soon be here I think to write to General Heath to request that the Court of Enquiry may sit here as the Delegates of Georgia are on the spot & the Carolina Officers are not able for want of cash to travel & am likely soon to return to their Country I know not yet the jist of the accusations that may be brought forth but I have the pleaing consciousness of having Endeavour’d to do my duty & therefore have nothing to fear I am Dear sir with the greatest Respect your Excellency’s Most Obt very hum. servt

                            R. Howe


Title: General Orders, 5 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters before York Friday October 5th 1781
                     Parole New Hampshire—
                     C. Signs. Pennsylvania Jersey.

                  Officers of the day Tomorrow
                  Major General Baron SteubenLt Col. GimottMajor HollingsheadB. M. Aorson.The Officers and men of the following Regiments now on duty to be immediately Relieved by their respective Brigades—Barbers—Scammells, Gaskins, Adams, Ogdens and Courtlandts—the whole of the Officers and men of these Regiments to hold themselves in readiness for immediate duty and be furnished with Provisions agreeable to General orders.
                  The honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Resolutions By the United States in Congress assembled—September 20th 1781.
                  Resolved That the present Vacancies of Hospital Physicians and surgeons be filled up by the senior surgeons of the Hospital, lately deranged the eldest Hospital Mates or Regiment surgeons as shall be recommended by the Director and chief Physician and surgeon of the Army.
                  That all future vacancies of HospitalPhysicians and surgeons be filled by the eldest regimental surgeons and Hospital Mates, who shall be reckoned of equal grades, who shall upon examination be found qualified and obtain a certificate of recommendation from the Director and Chief Physician and surgeon of theArmy, or of the Director and chief Physician in a separate Department—That the persons requisite to fill the highest Grades in the Hospital and Medical Departments be appointed from time to time by Congress according to Merit and abilities—That all surgeons to regimts or Corps not belonging to the line of any particular State, beNominated by the director of the Hospital, and the chief Physician and surgeon of the Army, subject to the approbation of the Commander in Chief and shall be equally entitled to promotion to Hospital Physicians and surgeons with the regimental surgeons of State Lines.
                  On therecommendation of the Director, approved by the board of War—Resolved that Dr Joseph Young a deranged senior surgeon and Doctor Goodwin Willson, Daniel Jenifer—Samuel Edmundson and George Campbell eldest surgeons mates be promoted to the rank of Hospital Physicians and surgeons to fill the Vacancies occasioned by the Resignation of Doctors Bloomfield—Scott. Hagan and Jackson— and the promotion of Dr Burnett.
                  On the recommendation of the Deputy Director, approved by the Board of War—Resolved that Doctors Thomas, Tudor. Tucker—and Vickars be appointedPphysicians and surgeons in the Hospital for the southern Department—That Daniel Smith be appointed Assistant Deputy Purveyor, and John Carne assistant Deputy Apothecary in the southern Department.
                  September the 22d 1781.  In Congress.
                  Ordered that no appointments be made of Mates to supply the places of those promoted in the General Hospital by the Resolution of the 20th untill the further order of Congress.
                  Extract from the MinutesCharles Thompson SecrtyMajor General the Marquis de la Fayette and Lt Col. Harmer are appointed Officers of the day for this day, vice Major General Lincoln and Lt Col. Adams, on other duty.
                  For Pecquet this night, Olneys regiment.
                  Covering party Daytons, Courtlandt & Gematts regiments—The regiments of Butler, Stewart and Roxbury—also four hundred men properly Officered from the Militia to parade precisely at six in the Morning in front of the Pennsylvania Line.
                  The General is surprized to find a quantity of Offal and other offensive matter at the different slaughter yards about Camp remaining unburied—any Commissary who shall in future suffer anything of the kind will be arrested—There being also a number of dead Horses and other putred bodies about the Camp, the Quarter Master General is directed to apply to the Adjutant General for a party to bury the same, to prevent any ill effects that may arise from suffering them to be longer above ground.
                  After Orders
                  The men and Officers of the first New York regiment which are on duty are immediately to be relieved; and the whole of the Regiment to be held in the most perfect readiness for duty: and to be furnished with Provisions agreeable to General orders—Cortlandts Regiment was this Morning warned to be ready for immediate duty, by mistake, It will therefore consider itself absolved from the injunction then laid on it.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 5 October 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,Head quarters, Continental village, October 5. 1781.

                  I have been honored with your’s of the 23d and 24th ultimo, and beg leave to congratulate your Excellency on the prospect of success (which with the blessing of heaven) seems almost ensured to you.
                  I have the copy of instructions from the general Assembly of the state of Georgia, the resolution of Congress, and your Excellency’s instructions respecting Major–general Howe’s conduct while commanding in the state of Georgia—but not a single evidence do I know of, or who is to support the charges.  I therefore request to be informed, whether it is your Excellency’s pleasure that I immediately appoint a court of inquiry—whether there are any papers lodged with your Excellency which will tend further to elucidate the matter—and on whom I am to call to support the charges.
                  I have the pleasure to congratulate your Excellency on the success of the american arms in this quarter, in the reduction of fort Slongo on Long Island on the morning of the 3d instant.  The enterprise was planned by major Tallmadge, and executed by major Trescott with an address and gallantry that does them much honor—And what heightens the pleasure, is, the success was obtained without the loss of a man on our side, and but one wounded.  It is said a number of small arms were taken.  Major Vanalstin, the commandant was gone to New York to solicit a twelve pounder for the fort.
                  In a former letter I requested a copy of your order respecting captain Livermore of the New Hampshire line.  It has been reported that he is restored to his command, but I have received nothing respecting it that will warrant my publishing it in orders—and captain Livermore held in a disagreeable suspense.
                  I am carefully forwarding on for the use of the army under your Excellency’s immediate command, one hundred head of beef cattle weekly and shall continue to do so until ordered otherwise.  I have the honor to be With the highest respect Your Excellency’s Most obiedient servant,

                     W. Heath

                Enclosure

                        Dear Sir,
                        Norwalk Sepr 25th 1781

                     The object of the intended expedition (in which You will command) is the reduction of the refugee Post on Long Island called Fort Slongo.  I should recommend to You to land Your troops at least two miles to the East or westward of the Fort, to avoid any Guards which may be advanced on the bank next to the sound.  The Guides will point out the most proper place for this purpose—when You advance near the Fort, if You should find the Garrison alarmed, & under arms—I Cannot advise You to attempt a storm, as the strength of the works seem not to warrant the risque—In this case it may not be amiss to endeavour to draw out the Troops by some proper Maneuvre.  If You find the Garrison pretty much off their guard, from the draught of the works herewith given You, I should suppose You had better make two attacks at the same time—The one directly against the sally Port or Gate, & the other against the hutts within the Abattis—If you succeed in the former, You will effectually cut off the Garrison from entering the Fort, and by the latter measure they will be prevented from escaping—However if from a more accurate survey & enquiry, You should judge any other mode of attack more likely to ensure success, You will be at liberty to adopt it.  You must by all means endeavour to accomplish Your business so as to be ready to reembark Your Troops on or before day break, to avoid being cutt off in the sound by any of the Enemies armed boats or Guard Ships. Wishing You success I am Dear Sir Your most Obedt Servt

                        Benjn Talmadge
                        Major 2d Lt Dragoons

                Enclosure

                        Return Of Prisoners Ordance Military Stores &c. &c. taken in Fort Slongo Octr 3d 1781

                     PrisonersCaptains2Lieutenants1Rank & File18
                     OrdnanceThree pounder Brass1brought offFour Poudr double fortifd Iron2Destroy’dCases of shot for three poundrs10Do          Do      four pounders32Blank cartridges three poundrs24Musquett Cartridges480A considerable quantity of english goods & Cloathing were taken in the Fort & brought off.
                     Two of the Enemy were killed within their works & two mortally wounded & left.

                        Leml Trescott
                        Major of the 9th Massts regt

                Enclosure

                        Dear General,
                        Compo point, October 3d 1781.

                     I am happy in having occasion to congratulate you on the success of an enterprize against fort Slongo, on Long Island.  After making many attempts to embark, and being prevented by bad weather, last evening at eight o’clock I ordered fifty men from captain Richards’s company of the Connecticut line, and fifty more from captain Edgar’s dismounted dragoons to embark at this place.  The smallness of the garrison at Slongo, and the difficulty of procuring boats, making it unnecessary to employ but a part of my detachment on this service, at the request of major Trescott, he was honored with the command.  Having obtained several very accurate draughts of this post, and even the places where the sentinels stood, I made every disposition for the attack previous to the embarkation of the troops.  I have enclosed a copy of my orders to major Trescott, which he has most faithfully executed, and his return of prisoners, &c. &c.
                     It becomes necessary for me to observe, that for the execution of this service, captain Edgar’s dismounted dragoons were ordered to surprize the garrison and carry the works, while captain Richards with his company were to surround the fort, and prevent the garrison from escaping.  Lieutenant Rogers of the 2d regiment light dragoons with ten chosen men, was appointed to lead the attack against the fort, followed by major Trescott and captain Edgar, with the remainder of the dismounted dragoons, the rear of which was brought up by cornet Pike—Captain Richards and ensign Pinto were disposed of as above observed, to surround the garrison.  The attack commenced at three o’clock this morning, and was conducted with great good order; but notwithstanding the greatest exertions of captain Richards and his officers, some of the garrison jumped over the works and escaped.  Major Trescott speaks highly of all the officers and soldiers under his command, as well as of the boat-men employed on this service.  It was fortunate for major Vanalstine who commanded the garrison, that he was absent at New York.
                     It gives me peculiar satisfaction that I have occasion to report not a man killed of our detachment, and but one wounded.  After the troops have refreshed themselves, I shall forward the prisoners, together with the standard of the garrison to head-quarters.  The plunder that was brought off from the garrison, I presume may be divided among the troops and boatmen who were on the expedition.  The piece of brass artillery I shall annex to my command for the present.
                     Some of our baggage being left at Fairfield, and other reasons of a private nature, which I shall soon communicate, have induced me to march the detachment to Fairfield, from whence I shall write you again to morrow.  I am, my dear General, With every sentiment of esteem, Your most obedient servant

                        Benja. Tallmadge
                        Major 2d reg. L.D.


Title: From George Washington to Daniel Morgan, 5 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Morgan, Daniel

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters before York 5th Octo. 1781

                  Surrounded as I am with a great Variety of Concerns on the present Occasion, I can yet find Time to answer your Letter of the 20th ulto—which I have received with much Satisfaction; not only as it is filled with such warm Expressions of Desire for my Success on the present Expedition, but as it breaths the Spirit & Ardor of a Veteran Soldier, who, tho impaired in the Service of Country, yet retains the Sentiments of a Soldier in the firmest Degree.
                  Be assured, that I most sincerely lament your present Situation—and esteem it a peculiar Loss to the United States, that you are at this Time unable to render your Services in the Field—I most sincerely thank you for the kind Expressions of your good Wishes; and earnestly hope that you may soon be restored to that Share of Health which you may desire, and with which you may again be usefull to your Country in the same eminent Degree, as has already distinguished your Conduct—With much Regard & Esteem I am sir Your most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to Timothy Pickering, 5 October 1781
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Pickering, Timothy

                     Sir
                  Camp 5th Octo 1781
                  Your Letter of Report of this Day is received—The General directs me to inform you that the Vessell you mention to have a small Quantity of Provisions on Board from Rhode Island—should by all Means be unloaded—& made use of for Necessary Purposes—or returned without Delay. I am D. Sir Your most hume Servt

                     Jona. Trumbull Junr


Title: General Orders, 6 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head. Quarters before York saturday 6th October 1781.
                     Parole. York
                     C. signs Viomenil—Lincoln

                  Officers of the day Tomorrow
                  Brigadier General ClintonColonel VoseMajor OlneyB. M. Fullerton.Lieutenant Colonel Dabneys regiment, the Delaware Detachment now doing duty with the third Maryland Regiment, and one hundred and sixty men which his Excellency Governor Nellson is requested to have selected from the Militia for the purpose, are to assist the Artillery during the present Operations, they will Encamp in the Park and take their orders from General Knox.
                  The Division Inspectors are to Mount as Majors of the Trenches, with their respective Major Generals.
                  Brigadier General Elbert is appointed Superintendant of the deposit of the Trenches and is to be Obeyed and respected as such in the execution of his functions defined in the 9th and subsequent Articles of the Regulations of this date for the service of the Trenches.
                  Major Galvan is appointed division Inspector to the Division Commanded by the Major General the Baron de Steuben.
                  The Commander in Chief congratulates the Army upon the late victory obtained over the Enemy at Eutau springs in south Carolina—He returns his warmest acknowledgements to General Greene for his admirable General Plann of operations, his Judicious dispositions on the present Occasion and the exemplary vigor with which he conducted their Execution—He requests him to communicate the most grateful expressions of his Esteem to the Gallant Officers and soldiers of whom he makes such Honorable mention for their conduct on the 8th of September—The National Military fame encreased by the atchievements of that day, entitle each individual who shared in them to the thanks of their Country.
                  General Green took upon this Occasion five hundred prisoners including the wounded which the Enemy lost on the field, and he supposes that their loss in killed and wounded exclusive of this, cou’d not be less than six hundred—His own loss in killed and wounded was about five hundred.
                  Regulations for the service of the siege
                  1 The service of the siege will be performed by Divisions alternately—the Fatigue men will first be detailed out of the Division and the remainder will form Battalions under their respective Commanders to guard the Trenches—the first night there will be an exception to this Rule—the first regiment of each Brigade will that Night form a Division—Commanded by Major General Lincoln.
    2d The divisions shall be warned for the Trenches, the preceding evening, and they are to furnish no guards when they mount the Trenches.
  3d No Officer or soldier of a Regiment Commanded for the Trenches will be excused from Mounting unless he be sick—the quarter guard of each regiment will alone remain in Camp.
  4th The Major General of the Division which Mounts, will be Major General of the Trenches—the Brigadiers will Mount with their Brigades.
 5th The General Officers of the Trenches will reconnoitre carefully all the Avenues, places of Arms and advantageous Angles, that he may determine in Consequence the order and position of the Troops, in case of attack.
 6 the Inspector of the Division which Mounts, will do the duty of Major of the Trenches—He will make the detail of the service of the troops during the Twenty four hours that he shall be there, and attend to the punctual observance of Orders.
  7 He will visit before hand all the Posts of the Trenches, and visit them again when the troops are posted there in order to make a state of them, and communicate promptly to each the orders of the General Officer: near whom he is to keep himself to receive them—Each Brigade to send to the General of the Trenches an orderly Officer.
 8. the Major of the Trenches will be instructed by the General Officers, of the Alarm posts in case of a Sally, and take care to inform the Troops of it.9th An officer of rank will be appointed by the Commander in chief to act as super intendant of the deposit of the Trenches, for the following important service during the whole siege vizt.  To take charge of all the sandbags Fascines, Gabions, Hurdles and other Materials deposited at the place which the Engeneers will appoint and keep an accurate state of them.
  10th He is to deliver the sand bags and necessary tools for the works, and take care that the tools are redelivered when they are no longer wanted.11th He will take care that there are Litters, and men ready to go with them to bring off the Wounded.
   12th  He is to count all the Detachments of fatigue men when they enter the Trenches and make a Report to the Adjutant General.
  13 He will give Billetts for taking from the deposits of Artillery the Ammunition which the troops in the Trenches may require.
  14th He will Transmit a daily report to the Adjutant General of all the orders and Certificates that he shall have given, as well as a state of the Deposits which shall have been committed to his care.
  l5th He will likewise Transmit to the Adjutant General a return regimentally digested of the killed and wounded.
  l6 He will above all watch over every thing which relates to order and regularity in the Trenches, except in the disposition of the Troops—which is the particular province of the Major of the trenches.
 17 The Trenches shall be relieved every Twenty four hours unless a particular order to the contrary by the Generals in which case the relief shall be in the rear of the others.
   18. The General having fixed the hour for Mounting the Trenches, and the parade for assembling the Reliefs to be on the ground sufficiently before hand to give the General Officers and Adjutant General time for inspection.
   19th When the Troops shall have arrived the Major of the Trenches shall form them in the order in which they are to occupy the Trenches.
20th Each Brigade previous to entering the Trenches, will form a picquet to consist of one Captain one subaltern, three serjeants and fifty Rank and file to be posted and employed as the General Officers may think proper—the remainder of the brigade will be formed in the common order.
   21 The Drums are to be equally distributed in front and rear of the brigade One only will March with each Picquett that may be detached in the Trenches.
   22d Each Battalion will send previous to the Relieving hour an orderly man to the tail of the Trenches to conduct the troops that are to relieve them.
 23d The Major of the trenches will distribute the orderly men in such manner as that they may conduct each relieving Corps directly to the post which it is to Occupy.
  24th When the relieving Troops arrive, those who dismount will cede them the side nearest the Epaulment.
   25 All the troops either relieving or relieved will March with Drums beating, Colours flying and carry Arms to the place from whence they are to file off when they will support their Arms.
 26 When the Troops shall have taken there post in the trenches, the standard bearer will plant their standards upon the Epaulments and sentries will be posted with proper intervals, with orders to give Notice of whatever they may see coming out from the place and of the shells that may be thrown by the Enimy, but no notice to be given or any movement to be made for Cannon shot.
   27. Sand-bags will be desposed on the Epaulments of the Trenches, to cover the sentries.
 28 The Officers will cause each soldier to work in his place to enlarge the trench and strengthen the Epaulments.
  29th  No honor to be rendered in the Trenches when the Commander in Chief and General Officers of the Trenches visit them—the soldiers will stand to their Arms facing the Epaulment and ready to mount the banquet.
  30 When the Troops retire from the Trenches, they will March in reversed Columns.
  31. When the troops are out of the Trenches, the Commanding Officers of brigades will halt them in order to collect them and give time for the Junction of detached Picquetts.
   32 The said Officers will examine whether any person be missing, and reconduct his Command in good and compact order to Camp—suffering no straggler to precede the main Body.
  33. The Infantry are to make the Number of Gabions &ca ordered them.
 34 The Gabions are to be three feet high including the end of the Picquetts which are to enter the ground—they are to have two feet and a half diameter and be formed of Nine Picquetts, each of two and a half inches circumference interlaced with branchery, striped of leaves to be equally closed at top and bottom, in order that they may not be larger at one end than the other.
 35 Hurdles shall be six feet long and three feet wide and shall be made of Nine Picketts, each of two inches and a half to three inches circumference, equally distant from each other and interwoven with stronger Branchery than that employed for the Gabions.
   36 The Fascines are to be six feet long and six inches through, to be made of branchery, the twigs of which are to be crossed, to be bound with Withs at each end and in the middle, to each fascine, three picketts of three feet long and two or three inches diameter.
 37 The Brigades shall always have at the head of their Camp, the stated Number of fascines which they will replace in proportion as they are used.
    38 The Commandants of Corps shall be responsible for the observance of the demensions of the Materials employed in the trenches, inattention in this point being very pernicious to the service.
 39 Each soldier going to the Trenches either to mount Guard or Work shall take with him a fascine to be left at the Deposit of the Trenches.
  40 The number of fatigue men Ordered shall be punctually furnished, they shall be conducted by an Officer of each regiment to the rendezvous where the brigade Major will see them, and the Officer appointed to superintend the detail of the siege (as mentioned in the 9th & 12th Articles will see them enter the Trenches and count them.
 41 When the fatigue men enter the trenches, the Officers will march agreeable to the Regulations of the Army—Each fatigue man will take his tool at the Deposit and if they are armed they will leave them piled under the Guard of a sentry.
   42 Each Commandant of a squad shall be charged with making the soldiers which compose it work, and with keeping them in order, the serjeants shall take care of two squads and the Officers of the Totality, but the Captain shall be more particularly charged with the first and the Lieutenant with the second Division.
  43. The fatigue men are to March near each other and Observe the greatest silence when the Engineers place them.
   44 The Officers who Command the fatigue parties will be constantly with their detachments and exactly observe the directions of the Engineers.
 45. When the work is Commenced they are to walk constantly along their detachments to make the soldiers perform their duty obliging them to cover themselves with alacrity and afterwards to perfect the work.
  46 The Officers of covering parties will cause their soldiers to sit down, hinder them from quitting their Musquetts which they are to hold before them, the butt on the ground.
  47 The advanced posts of such Detachments as are Commanded by Non Commissioned Officers will remain prostrate untill the trench is sufficiently deep to cover a man to the waist—when the Detachments with their advanced Posts will retire into the trenches, to Occupy the Head of the Work which shall have been made.
   48. In the saps, Batteries and other places adjacent to the deposits of powder no soldier is to be permitted to smoke.
49 In case of a sally, the Fatigue men are to retire briskly into some part of the Trenches where they may not embarrass the Troops—they are to retire in preference to the place where their Arms were lodged.
   50 The Troops will march briskly out of the Trenches and repair to the place of Arms, batteries, angles and Avenues which shall have been designated to them from whence they may defend it more advantageously and take the enemy in reverse or flank—taking particular care not to occupy the banquet for the defence of the Epaulment: but always to post themselves in the reverse of the Trenches.
 51. During the sally all the Batteries will direct their fire upon the front of attack in order to disperse the besieged.
   52d When the troops shall have repulsed the Enemy, they are not to pressure them but wait the orders of their General Officer to resume their posts in the Trenches.
  53d As soon as the attack is finished, the Officers of fatigue will reconduct their detachments to Work and call the rolle, that any absent soldiers may be punished at return to Camp.
  54 At the hour for withdrawing the fatigue, the Detachments are to return in good order and the Officers are to report to the Commandant of the Regiment what has been the conduct of the soldiers.

  55 Besides the fatigue men of the trenches a sufficient detachment shall be given to the superintendant of the Deposit in the Trenches whose service shall be for twenty four hours: this officer is to employ them in collecting the tools, in making the different distributions, in going with the Litters, and bringing the wounded to the hospital of first dressings.
Some Rum being arrived an issue of one Jill ⅌ man to all noncommissioned officers and privates will be made this afternoon at three ô clock near Major General Steuben’s Marquee on Returns signed by the officers commanding brigades—and one week’s allowance of Spirits to officers agreeably to the General Orders of August 80 will be issued tomorrow morning at eight ô clock on regimental returns to be signed by the respective Colonels or officers commanding regiments at the Magazine near the Commissary General’s tents; those who neglect sending proper returns will have only themselves to blame if they lose their dividend on this occasion.
                  Half after eight ô clock in the morning in future to be the orderly hour, at which time the General Officers and Heads of Departments are to make their Reports at Head Quarters.
                  The Quarter Masters of Brigades and Corps are to make returns of all their Camp equipage to the Quarter Master General tomorrow.


Title: From George Washington to Lt. Col. Roger Enos, 6 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Enos, Lt. Col. Roger

                     Sir
                     Camp before York 6th October 1781

                  I yesterday recd your favor of the 26th of August and am glad to find that matters are like to be accommodated to the mutual satisfaction of the people of Vermont and those of the neighbouring States; where by the strength of a numerous Body will be thrown into the general scale, and the enemy disappointed in the hopes which they entertained of a separation of interests.
                  You will be pleased to correspond with and consider yourself as under the immediate command of Major Genl Heath who commands the Army at the Northward—It will be necessary also for you to keep up a communication with Brigr Genl Starke who commands at Saratoga and in that district.  I am Sir your most obt sert

               Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 6 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                      6th Octo. 1781

                  The Letter with which Your Excellency honored me on the 5th and the intelligence which you are to so good as to communicate afford me great pleasure by confirming the Ideas which I had entertained relative to the Hulks sunk by the Enemy in York River—It appears to me a physical impossibility to form effectual obstructions in a Channel so wide deep and rapid as that near York; this consideration and the immense utility which wd accrue to our land operations, induced me so earnestly to sollicit a detachment of Ships—to be stationed above the enemy’s posts—As Your Excellency has determined this to be ineligible for other reasons, the alternative which I did myself the honor to propose, if Your Excelly adopts it, will add to other eminent advantages that of dividing the Enemys means in artillery which we know are limited—whereas at present they are at liberty to reinforce the front attacked with Cannon from their River batteries.
                  The difficulty of pilots I flatter myself will be removed by an application to Capt. Lilly who besides having a perfect knowledge of the River is a man in whom the greatest confidence may be placed—he perhaps may name some others—this however will not prevent my unremitting search in the mean time, for persons qualified for this service—tho’ the policy of the Enemy, in capturing those at Hampton which was their usual Residence—has deprived us of this useful Class of men.  I have the honor &c.


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 6 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                     Camp before York 6th Oct. 1781.

                  How happy am I my dear Sir, in at length having it in my power to congratulate you upon a victory as splendid as I hope it will prove important.  Fortune must have been coy indeed had she not yielded at last to so persevering a pursuer as you have been—I hope now she is yours, she will change her appellation of fickle to that of constant.
                  I can say with sincerity that I feel the highest degree of pleasure the good effects which you mention as resulting from the perfect good understanding between you the Marquis and myself.  I hope it will never be interrupted, and I am sure it never can while we are all influenced by the same pure motive—that of love to our Country & interest in the cause in which we are embarked.  I have happily had but few differences with those with whom I have the honor of being connected in the Service—with whom, and of what nature these have been, you know.  I bore much for the sake of peace and the public good—My conscience tells me I acted rightly in these transactions, and should they ever come to the knowledge of the world I trust I shall stand acquitted by it.
                  The Baron, from the warmth of his temper, had got disagreeably involved with the State, and an enquiry into part of his conduct must one day take place, both for his own honor and their satisfaction.  I have for the present given him a command in this Army which makes him happy.
                  I shall always take pleasure in giving Mrs Greene’s letters a conveyance and shd she persist in the resolution of undertaking so long a journey as that from New England to Carolina I hope she will make Mount Vernon, (where Mrs Knox now is) a stage of more than a day or two.  With much truth and sincere affection I am Dr Sir Yr obedt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 6 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                     Dear SirHead Quarters before York Octobr 6th 1781

                  Your several Letters of the 13th—20—and 21st of September, have been received.
                  The Quarter Mastr Genll’s of the Allied Army will be called upon for their return respecting Forage used at Phillipsburg, which you request; our present circumstances may perhaps render it difficult for them to attend to it at so early a time as may be expected.  A Copy of the Report of a Board of Genll Officers, on the rank of Subalterns is sent you inclosed in this.
                  Since my writing you last, our operations for want of proper means of transportation, have proceeded rather slowly.  The Trenches will be opened this night.  Nothing very material has occurred, a very sparing fire from the Enemy, has been kept up, thro’ the course of our appearing before their Works.  A Letter for Colo. Enos is inclosed, & left open for your observation, you will please to seal & forward it to him; and continue to correspond with him as occasion may render necessary.  I am Dear Sir, with esteem Your Most Humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Lovell, 6 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lovell, James

                     sir
                     Head Quarters before York 6th Octo. 1781

                  I am much obliged by the Comunication you have been pleased to make me in your Favr of 21st ulto.
                  My Secretary has taken a Copy of the Cyphers—& by help of one of the Alphabets has been able to decipher one paragraph of a Letter lately intercepted going from Ld Cornwallis to sir Hry Clinton.
                  Your letter in Genl Greene will be forwarded by a good Opportunity by which I expect to write tomorrow. I am sir &a

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 6 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters Camp before York Octr 6th 1781

                  I have been honored with your Excellency’s favor without date, but which I suppose to have been written about the 25th ultimo, as the Revolution for sending Genll Irvine to Fort Pitt bears date the 24th.
                  Since mine to your Excellency of the 1st inst., we have been imployed in repairing the Enemy’s Works upon Pidgeon Hill, and in constructing a new intermediate Redoubt; These will serve to give security to our Troops in making their approaches.  We have been assiduously employed in making Fascines and Gabions, and in transporting our heavy Cannon, Mortars and Stores from Trebell’s landing upon James River,  In the last we made slow progress untill the arrival of the Waggons and Teams from the Northward; but it being the opinion of the Engineers that we now have a sufficient stock to commence operations, we shall this night open Trenches.
                  I take a very singular pleasure in congratulating Congress upon the very important and brilliant Victory gained by General Greene on the 8th of September.  I have the honor to be with great respect & esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 6 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                     (Private)
                     Sir,
                     Camp before York October 6th 1781

                  I feel myself peculiarly obliged and honored by your Excellency’s interesting communication of the 26th Ulto.  That America must place her principal dependence upon her own exertions I have always foreseen and have ever endeavoured to inculcate; and I flatter myself that from the wise system of policy which has been of late adopted and which Congress seem determined to pursue our internal means will be so improved and applied, that with the assistance of our most generous of Allies, tho’ not operating immediately with us hereafter we shall be enabled to bring matters to a happy and glorious conclusion.
                  I am not apt to be sanguine, but I think in all human probability Lord Cornwallis must fall into our hands—The smallness of Digby’s reinforcement and the deduction from the enemy’s former naval strength by the loss of the Terrible & the condemnation of two other Ships of the line leaves them so vastly inferior that I think they will not venture upon a relief.
                  It is to be wished that your Excellency’s plan could be adopted, but there are reasons which operate forcibly against Count de Grasse’ dividing his fleet—By grasping at too much we might loose a stake which nothing but the most adverse stroke of fortune can take out of our hands, and which if we attain will give a most fatal stab to the power of Great Britain in America.
                  I hope your Excellency will excuse my short and imperfect answers to your very full & obliging letters—The variety of matter which engages my attention must be my apology.  My public dispatch will inform your Excellency of our progress up to this date.  With the greatest esteem & respect.  I have the honr, to be Sir Yr Most Obedt & Obliged Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lewis Morris, Jr., 6 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Lewis, Jr.,Greene, Nathanael

                     Camp before York 6th October 1781

                  Memorandums for Lt Colo. Morris to be communicated to no person but to Major General Greene.
                  General Greene to be informed fully as he has been shortly by letter that there was no alternative left—Count de Grasse’s destination was fixed to the Chesapeak and therefore as Lord Cornwallis was found there and in a most inviting situation, the operation against him took place of necessity.
                  General Greene to be informed in the most confidential manner that the stay of Count de Grasse upon this Coast is limited, and that should the present operation prove lengthy he will exceed the instructions of his Court by staying to the end of it, which however he seems inclined to do at all hazards.
                  That when Count de Grasse goes off this Coast he cannot consistent with his orders leave more than 2 ships with Count de Barras.
                  From the two foregoing Articles it appears that we cannot flatter ourselves with a combined operation against Charles town however the thing is to be wished.
                  Colo. Morris will inform General Greene that every aid independent of a naval one will be offered him the moment the operation in hand is finished—and that the Admiral will be requested, if he can do it with convenience, to carry the intended reinforcements to Carolina by Water—The troops which will certainly be sent will be the Virginia Regt 2 Pennsylvania and 2 Maryland Regiments of Foot amounting at present to 1500 fit for duty and as many of Whites—Maryland and Baylors Cavalry as can be mounted—Cloathed and equipped—About 500 more Pennsylvanians are coming on and another Maryland Regt is forming—about 200 of which were at Annapolis, but they were mostly Levies to serve ’till Decemr next and if they cannot be reinlisted it will not be worth while to march them.
                  Colo. Morris will inform General Greene in the sincirest manner that there are but two motives which can possibly induce Genl W—— to take the command to the southward—One, the Order of C---- to refrain thither—the other—the French Army going there—In the last case Count R---- would command if Genl W---- did not go in person—Genl Washington wishes, not only from his personal regard to Genl Greene but from principles of generosity and justice to see him crowned with those Laurels which from his unparalled exertions he so richly deserves.
                  Colo. Morris is fully acquainted with the progress of our operations up to their present stage and with our prospects and can therefore give General Greene the amplest satisfaction upon those points.
                  Continuation of Memorandum for Colo. Morris
                  Genl Greene will keep His Excellency frequently informed in the most pointed & expeditious Manner, of every Circumstance, worthy of Communication, which may relate either to his own Army—or to the Enemys  Movements, Strength & probable designs—Particularly he will give the earliest Information respectg the Resources of the Country in Point of Provisions necessary to support a large Body of Troops—And as the French Ships, will only transport (if they can do that) the troops & just Drop them on their Way—without the least stay for their protection; it will be absolutely necessary that Genl Washington should be acquainted with the Opinions of Genl Greene, as to the Point of Debarkation which Genl Greene will probably fix at some Place where, he will be at Hand for their Support, if necessary, & at which he will be able to afford them that Aid in provisions, which they will probably find necessary.
                  The above Memorandums are to be destroyed by Colo. Morris as soon as he has committed them to his Memory.


Title: From George Washington to Edward Rutledge, 6 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Rutledge, Edward

                     My dear Sir,
                      Octr 6th 1781

                  I am fully impressed with the justice & truth of every remark contained in your letter of the 12th Ulto—and you may be assured were the means of carrying your wishes into effect under my controul & direction, that they should be applied as soon as circumstances would admit to the end which you propose.
                  I have not time, neither could I with prudence enter into the reason which I think will operate against carrying your very desirable plan fully into execution—If I mistake not, it was hinted to you in a personal conversation at Philadelphia, but your good sense will naturally suggest what the principal one is if it was not..  of this however you may be assured, that after the present operation is closed, and I hope it will terminate well, that every thing which depends upon me and all the influence I can exert shall be used towards exterminating the British from the Southern States—If we cannot do it entirely we will at least endeavr to confine them to so narrow limits that they shall scarcely have enough a claim of possession upon.
                  We have been hitherto employed in constructing some necessary advanced works—in preparing fascines—Gabions—&ca and bringing our heavy artillery and Stores from the landing place on James River—This last has been carried on slowly till within a few days past, when our Waggons arrived Engineers now think we have a sufficient stock to commence serious operations—and we open Trenches this Evening.
                  Be so good as to present my compliments to Mrs Rutledge & do me the justice to believe that with much attachment--& sincere affection I am—Dear Sir Yr Obedt

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  I most sincerely congratulate you on the late important victory of the American Troops in South Carolina.


Title: From George Washington to William Smallwood, 6 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Smallwood, William

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters before York 6th Octo. 1781
                  I have received your Favor of 26th of Septemr—I should have esteemed it a fortunate Circumstance to have had the Pleasure to have fell in with you on my Rout to Virginia.
                  The 50 Men, engaged for three Years & the War, of the Maryland Line which you mention, I could wish should be moved on as soon as may be; equipped in the best manner you are able to effect—The Nine Months Men are not so necessary perhaps to be sent on immediately—I wish however they may be Equipped & held in constant Readiness to come on if needed.  It is impossible at this Moment to foresee all the Events which may render their Services of Importance.
                  Genl Greene’s little Army, having been so much reduced by frequent Battles & Losses—It is of the utmost Importance to recruit the Troops assigned to him in the speediest Manner & to the fullest Compliment possible—I must desire therefore that you will continue your Exertions in Superintendg that Service—especially as were you to join me on the present Enterprize—the several Comands are already so filled, that I should find it very difficult to dispose of you in such manner as I could wish—& as your Merits deserve.I am Sr

                     G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Varick, 6 October 1781
From: Varick, Richard
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Poughkeepsie Octr 6. 1781.

                  I had the Honor of writing to Your Excellency a Letter of the 1st instant, Which (for want of proper Conveyance) remains yet in my Hands and will accompany this via M. Genl Heath.
                  I hope it will not add much to the Trouble, which Your Excellency has to perplex You, to receive my Report, That Mr Myer one of the Writers has for some Days past, been troublesome to me, by his repeated and uncivil Declarations, "That if he could get no Pay, after two Month’s Service, he would discontinue his Services, and by attempting to infuse a similar Spirit & wishing to encourage a Disposition to Indolence in the other Gentlemen.
                  As he had been an Assistant Clerk to the Assembly, which was to convenee within few Days; his two Month’s Service being nearly expired, which favored his Declarations, And having less Discretion than Capacity for Business, he told me in an abrupt Manner, that he intended to quit writing, to attend the Assembly; I requested him first to compleat the Letters to the Enemy’s Officers to 1780. included, which would not require more than 3 Days, but he declined even that; And, from his Circumstances in Life, very injudiciously preferred an Attendance on the Assembly at 20/ ⅌ Day, for a Month or 6. Weeks, than the Pay of £20. ⅌er Month, in the Service I had engaged in for a longer Term.  This however, was rather the Effect of an Indolent Habit which he had before contracted & which the Service under me would not countenance, than of an Expectation to act in the Assembly, as he was informed his services would not be required.  However irksome the Measure might have been, in different Circumstances; I availed myself of the Opportunity, to inform him, that I would not be trifled with & that if he discontinued his Services then, he should quit altogether; And I am happy to inform Your Excellency, that I have got rid of his incessant & indecent Importunities & ill Example, at the same Time convincing the others that I am not anxious about their Services & that Trifling will not be put up with.
                  I shall now require another Assistant & have written to a Mr Peter Hughes, Son of Colo. Hughes the Q. Master, who is a good Writer & seems inclined to serve; but he objects to the Non Allowance of Rations, Especially as he says he is offered 75 Dollars per month & Rations for himself and Forage for his Horse; but by what Act of Congress I am ignorant of.  In my reply, I said Nothing about the Pay, but told him, no Forage would be allowed And with Respect to Rations, I would wait your Answer that if he chose to accept, he ought to be expeditious or I would employ another.
                  Others have also mentioned the Want of Rations as an Object as it will in Part assist such as have Families & ease the Expence of the Board of Lodgers.  I must confess, that the Pay of 50 specie Dollars ⅌ Month or 13/4. ⅌ Day, is a bare Compensation to a Person who writes 8 Hours faithfully (except Sundays).  Perhaps Your Excellency may think proper to allow 2. Rations, or its Equivalt as the Staff Officers receive; And expressly to stipulate in your Orders to me "that 8 Hours service of the 24. is absolutely required or a Deduction from the whole Amount, of Pay & Subsistence (60 Ds.), in Proportion to the Time lost by actual Non Attendance."
                  It will impose a little additional Trouble on me, but I will cheerfully submit to it, rather than to have any Dissatisfaction prevail, for Want of a full and adequate Compensation.  If any of the Writers whom I may hereafter get, should choose to continue longer than 8 Hours, I will certify the Extra Service & Doubt not but your Excellency will approve of the Measure & order Payment.
                  I have promised to submit the above Matters to You & if not too inconvenient, in Your Excellency’s present Situation, I shall be very happy to be favored with an Answer to this, as well as my Letter of the 1st inst.
                  I had almost forgot to mention to Your Excellency, That among the Officers of the Levies of this State, now under Colo. Willetts Commd, is a Mr Fonda a Young Lad of Albany, who, since his joining Willetts Command, has been appointed an Ensign in one of the New York Regiments, which are now to the Southward.
                  He was a Clerk in the Q. Master or Commy Departmt, at Albany and wrote a neat Hand.  I had it in Contemplation to procure his Aid, when the Levy Service should expire; but find, on Inspection of the Military Appointments, that he has recd that of an Ensign.  If he is not to be ordered to join his Regiment while to the Southward, unless he wishes to do it; And Your Excellency should (in his peculiar Circumstances) think it proper to let him assist me; Allowing him an Addition of Pay to that of his Appointment, making it equal to 50 Dollars, I shall be happy to receive Your Orders to him to that Effect.
                  However if Your Excellency has the least Objection I do not wish it, & there will be no Disappointment to him as he is unapprised of this my Application or even my Wishes.
                  I mean this to take Effect only in Case Hughes shall decline; But even if this shall not be the Case, I may employ him in the Work, which I had designed for Stagg, if he should be willing, in Winter.
                  I only wish Your Excellency to believe, that I have no particular Connexion by Blood, whom I can serve; or by Friendship, whom I wish to serve; in Preference to any other Man whom I candidly think equally capable and industrious.
                  If I had any, it was Captn Dunscomb of New York a sensible Young Man, whom the Circumstances, of being my Contemporary Student & having suffered peculiar Hardships in Captivity & being unfortunately deranged, may have recommended to me.  Him I must part with, for Reasons mentioned in mine of the 1st instant.
                  Your Excellency’s Answer to this & my former Letters of the 21st or 22nd Augt & 1st instant will be acceptable.  I have the Honor to be, with the most exalted Sentiments of Respect & Regard, Your Excellency’s Most Obedient & most Humble Servt

                     Richd Varick


Title: General Orders, 7 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Camp before Yorktown Sunday October 7. 1781
                     Parole Bergen op zoom
                     Countersigns Chattelux Gloucester

                  Major Dexter is appointed officer of the day for this day vice Major Olney indisposed.
                  The Guards and Fatigue for the Trenches will mount daily at twelve ô clock: they are to parade precisely at eleven on the right of the Marquis de la Fayette’s Division.
                  For the Trenches this day
                  Major General the Marquis de La FayetteBrigadier Generals Muhlenberg & HazenThe Marquis de La Fayette’s division will mount in the Trenches this day.
                  The President and Members of the General Court martial whereof Colonel Dayton is President will attend to that duty untill they finish their Business unless otherwise directed by General Orders.
                  For the Trenches tomorrow
                  Major General Baron SteubenBrigadier General WayneThe Baron Steuben’s Division will mount in the Trenches tomorrow.


Title: To George Washington from Horatio Gates, 7 October 1781
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Berkley County 7th October 1781

                  The Secrecy & Expedition of Your Excellencys movement from the North River, defeated my Wish to have paid you my Compliments in person upon your Route, as I never knew of your being upon the March, until you had passed Alexandria—in this remote Corner, we seldom see a News paper, & though we ought to have a post once a Fortnight we are in that often disappointed.
                  I hope your Excellency received my Letter of 22th May from Philadelphia.  I should have been happy to have known your Sentiments thereupon, but do most readily conceive, the Vast public Business with which you are constantly surrounded, has deprived me of that Satisfaction.
                  Ever willing to give my little aid to serve this Our much injured Country, I should rejoice to be instrumental to Your Excellencys Success in any way you would please to Command, but I think you would not wish me to Act under the Stigma that has been so ungenerously been laid upon me.
                  The Bearer Mr Blue, a reputable Farmer from this South Branch of Potomac, desires to Contract for the Delivery of 300 Beeves to your Army, as I believe he is a person that would perform his promise, I therefore recommend him to Your Excellency.
                  That the Supream disposer of Events may Crown your Labours with a Glorious, and Compleat Victory, is the earnest request of Sir Your Excellencys most Obedient Humble Servant

                     Horatio Gates


Title: To George Washington from François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 7 October 1781
From: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de
To: Washington, George

                     à bord de la ville de Paris le 7. 8bre 1781.

                  Il y a actuellement prés de Votre Excellence, deux officiers dont le merite, les connoissances et l’esprit, m’ont forcé a les distinguer, sur le nombre qui se trouve sous mes ordres.  Ils n’ont d’autres instructions de ma part que celle de voir avec Votre Excellence, tout ce qui sera possible de faire exécuter à l’armée.  Ils connoissent tous les deux, mais plus particulierement encore M. de la Villeon, mes intentions sur la cause commune et ils savent qu’il n’y a que l’impossible que je ne tente pas, pour la réussite de nos opérations.
                  Le Capitaine Lilly est deja connû de moy et je pense qu’il ne doit pas se plaindre de la façon distinguée dont je l’ai traité. il est actuellment sur un des Vaisseaux au bas de la riviere d’York, mais il est seul et jusques à ce moment, malgre les prieres que j’ai pû luy faire, il n’a pu me procurer d’autres pilottes.  j’ai l’honneur d’observer à Votre Excellence, qu’un Pilotte seul n’est pas suffisant pour cette Entreprise.  je mande à M. de St. Côme commandant le Vau le Vaillant, ou est actuellement le Capne Lilly, de vous l’envoyer au premier beau temps, parceque vraisemblablement il satisfera plutôt Votre Excellence, que moy.
                  j’ai appris avec bien du regret l’indisposition de M. le Comte de Rochambeau.  la connaissance que j’ai de son merite, me fait desirer qu’il se rétablisse au plutôt, afin de pouvoir seconder vos opérations.  j’ai l’honneur d’être avec la consideration la plus respectueuse, De Votre Excellence Le três humble et três obéissant serviteur

                     Le Comte de Grasse