Title: To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 20 August 1780
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						North Castle [N.Y.] Augt 20th 1780

					Since my last I have made several attempts to open a Communication with C—— Junr by the way of Oysterbay or Cow Neck. The Person whom I mentioned to Your Excellency as the properest Man to engage, & secure C——’s Services, was once from home at N.Y. & last monday night I sent over an Officer who formerly resided at Oysterbay, but the Person in question was then too ill to be seen. I shall still pay attention to this matter, tho’ the Reffugee boats which frequently pass up & down the Sound makes ⟨c⟩rossing very dangerous.
					Enclosed is a Letter from the Person who has for ⟨mutilated⟩ long time bro’t dispatches from the C——’s—Your Excellency will perceive he has been attacked by some of the Ruffugee Boats. He requests more men, as may be seen by the enclosed—Your Excellency will please to direct me in the matter—There are several Continental Crews at Stamford & Horseneck, whose Duty I am unacquainted with—Perhaps one of these can be spared.
					I am sorry Lt B——r was drove from L.I. so suddenly as Dispatches

from C——Junr were then waiting for him. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

						Benja. Tallmadge


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 21 August 1780
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

						Dear General
						Fort Pitt Augt 21st 1780

					By Captain Duplantier who is just Arrived from the Delaware Towns. I am informed that, the British, at Detroit treat the french Inhabitants with great severity & that they wish for nothing more than the approach of a body of Troops from this place The Captain adds that Colo. Clark with a body of about one thousand Men has actually destroyed the Shawnese Town at Chellacoffy and was in pursuit of the Indians when the runner who brought the Account came from thence.
					I have just received a Letter from the Reverend Mr Hackenwelder & another from Captn John Killbuck, Copies of which I take the liberty to inclose.
					Had I Provisions I should be happy to March against some of the Hostile Indian Towns But unfortunately, I have not more than a Days allowance of Bread & very little Beef And I cannot yet see a fair prospect of obtaining adequate Supplies, untill Money can be furnished to pay for them. With the most exhalted respect & esteem I have the Honor to be your Excellencies most Obedt Servt

						Daniel Brodhead


Title: To George Washington from George Clymer and John Nixon, 21 August 1780
From: Clymer, George,Nixon, John
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Philadelphia Augt 21. 1780

					The letter of the 14th instant which your Excellency has honored us with, makes us sensible of the necessity of fixing, with some degree of precision, the supply of flour the army is to receive from the Pennsylvania—bank. From a consideration then of its present ability, and the near prospect we have of its encrease, we can venture to give assurance of a supply of two thousand five hundred barrels, between this time and the first of october next.
					This supply, far as it falls short of our early expectations, will, we hope, in addition to other resources, be found sufficient for the subsistence of such troops as your Excellency may find occasion to draw together. Mr Francis, the factor of the bank, is sending forward to Trenton about two hundred barrels, being the whole he has been able to procure, such has been lately the great scarcity of that article here.
					We request your Excellency to believe that no labours, or industry, on our part, shall be spared to give the bank its proper effect, in continuing the supplies to the end of the term originally proposed. We are with sentiments of high regard—Your Excellency’s most obedt and most hum. servts

						Geo. ClymerJohn Nixon


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 21 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters Orange Town 21st Augt 1780.

					Your favor of the 17th reached me last Evening. I have recieved intelligence that Sir Henry Clinton went himself towards the East End of Long Island on the 16th and that the troops at Whitestone were again embarking. I have an account of Sir Henry’s movement through two different Channels—that of the embarkation only thro’ one. I can hardly suppose that he will, considering the present position of this Army, venture to carry a force from New York sufficient to make an attempt upon Rhode Island; but that you may have the earliest intelligence of any movements, I have desired Genl Arnold and Major Tallmadge to transmit immediately to you, any well grounded information they may receive. This you will of course communicate to the General and Admiral of France.

					They are apprehensive in New York of an embarkation of troops for the West Indies, but I have nothing from thence which satisfies me of the truth of the report. I am with great Regard Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

						Go: Washington

						P.S. I have just heard that Genl Clinton was certainly in New York the day before Yesterday.


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 21 August 1780
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Morris Town [N.J.] 21 Augt 1780

					I have your Excellency’s Favour of the 15th Instant. It mortifies me beyond Expression to find that only 159 recruits have joined the Jersey Brigade; and all the Consequences which your Excellency mentions are

but too justly to be apprehended from such deficiences. I shall without loss of time pursue the measure your Excellency recommends for compleating our Quota, if my Disorder will permit, having been seized with the Fever & Ague last week, which has reduced me to a State almost too low to attempt any Business.
					I thank your Excellency for the agreeable Intelligence of the Captures to the Eastward. I had indeed heard something of it before; but as I never lay much stress upon News by common Report, I did not suffer myself to rejoice on the occasion. The great Quantity of Blankets & other coarse woollens which this Capture will afford us, as well as the Effect of the want of them on Canada, & the copper-headed allies of Great Brittain, must render it a very important one.
					I think I shall be able to procure Evidence from Sussex of Moody’s having inlisted our people, which I presume must be fatal to him. Whether it will be of any use to prove that he compelled one of our Justices to take the Oath of Allegiance to his Britannic Majesty, I know not.
					I have also been honoured with your Excellency’s Letter of the 20th, & Collo. Seely will discharge all his men except 200 accordingly. I had previous to the receipt of it, written to every one of our Colls pointing out their respective deficiences in the present Tour; & urging them to have their full Compliment by the first of September to rendezvous at this place, & there to wait your Excellency’s farther orders. As the dispatches are already gone, & as it is much easier to discharge them in case they should not be wanted, than to get them when they are, it will perhaps not be necessary to qualify those orders by a subsequent direction pursuant to your Excellency’s Letter, than to take the field if called upon. If however your Excellency shall continue to think it best, I shall on the least Intimati⟨on⟩ from you, give correspondent directions, tho’ from the slowness of their collecting & the length of the march with respec⟨t⟩ to many of them, I am really afraid that on any sudden moves out, they will not, on such orders, join you in due Season. I have the honour to be with the highest respect Dear Sir your Excellency’s most humble Servant

						Wil: Livingston


Title: From George Washington to Colonel William Malcom, 21 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

						Sir
						Head Quarters Orange Town 21st Augt 1780

					I recd your favr of the 14th: If the Militia under your command are drawn out for the Campaign, as I think they are, I shall have no objection, if the measure should be agreeable to the Governor, to receiving those who want Arms into the York Brigade, and arming them from the public Magazines.
					You will be pleased on the receipt of this to march from your present Ground to where the Road from Niack crosses the mountain and falls into the main Road. You will take the most convenient situation for Wood—Water &ca and inform me upon your arrival there. Should you not have Waggons enough to move and the Qr Mr cannot furnish you, you must leave a party to impress as many as will bring down your Baggage. I am &.


Title: From George Washington to Philip Schuyler, 21 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters Orange Town 21st Augt 1780

					I had the pleasure of receiving your favor of the 10th. I am exceedingly sorry to hear of the ravages committed upon the settlements of schohary and Conajohare, but it is some consolation to find that a supply of provision has been thrown into Fort schuyler.
					I wish it was in my power to send up the 100 Barrels of salt provisions which you request. By the last return from West point there were only 180 Barrels in all the Works, and General Arnold was far from being certain that he should not be obliged to break in upon them for want of fresh Meat—I have endeavoured to keep a small stock of provision in each Redoubt in case of a sudden investiture of the post—As I have a doubt whether this letter will find you at Albany I have directed to be opened by Colo. Van schaick in your Absence. I am &.


Title: To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 21–22 August 1780
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

						Round Hill [Conn.]Augt 21st[–22] 1780 1. OClock A.M.
						Sir

					The enclosed Dispatches having just come to hand, I have the honor to forward them to Your Excellency by Express.
					The Express which bro’t the enclosed, & the other Letters from Rhode Island, was fired on by a Party of seven armed Men, between Stanwich & this Place, about 12 oClock last night—He happily escaped without injury. I have the Honor to be with great Rega⟨rd⟩ Your Excellencys Hble Ser⟨vant⟩

						Benja. Tallmadge


Title: To George Washington from Rear Admiral Ternay, 21 August 1780
From: Ternay, Charles-Henri-Louis d’Arsac, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

							Monsieur
							çe 21 aout [1780]

						le sejour des deux officiers pratiques du sound et de la partie de sandy hook amenès igy par Monsieur le Marquis de la fayette devenants inutile dans çe moment cy je prens le parti de les renvoyer chez eux je leur ay fait donner çent piastres quils mont demandè pour retourner dans leurs habitations lorsquil sera question doperer je prieray, Vôtre exçellençe, de les faire revenir à Neuport ils sont tres instruits lun et lautre jey profitéray de leurs lumieres jaurois ete bien aise de leur eviter la long[u]eur et la fatigue du voyage sils leussent desiré mais independamment de la depense inutile que leur sejour a rhodes island occasion[n]e je pense quils ne sont pas fachés de retourner chez eux netants point occupés pour le serviçe de leur patrie dans çe moment çy je suis avec tout le respect et lattachement possible Monsieur votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur

							le chevalier de ternay

						jay reçu la d[erni]ere lettre que votre exçellençe ma fait lhonneur de mecrire du 16.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Goose Van Schaick, 21 August 1780
From: Van Schaick, Goose
To: Washington, George

						Sir,
						Albany August 21st 1780

					When I had the Honor of receiving your Excellencies favor of the 31st Ultimo, I was in Tryon County where I met General Van Rensselaer returning from Fort Schuyler—The enemy while the General was marching up with the State Levies, & the Militi⟨a⟩ of Tryon disappeared from before Fort Schuyler & proceeded down to Canajohary, burnt near one hundred houses, & as many Barns, captured thirty four Women & Children, Massacred twelve, from thence they returned towards the Susquahanna, & in a few days after made a Descent on Schohary; here they burnt twelve Houses, & have by information taken and killed a larger number of the Inhabitants than at the former place, & it is expected the remainder of Schohary will share the same fate. The Indians are seen daily in small parties, & take prisoners & Scalps, Schonectady is threatned & the Inhabitant⟨s⟩ are moving their Effects to Albany with all dispatch seeing no appearance of support, & numbers going off to the enemy daily—The impress Warran⟨t⟩ transmitted me by Governour Clinton I put immediately in the hands of those persons appointed by the State Agent to procure supplies for the Army these have as yet brought forth nothing, & it is the General opinion, that plan will not have the desired effect. Three hundred & Seventy of the Massachussets Militia have arrived & gone to the Western Frontiers, & the Militia of this City are returned much chagrined to see so fine a Country given up to the destruction of the enemy, who take burn & destroy, all before them; setting aside the sufferings & distresses of the unfortunate Inhabitants The fine Crops which are lost would have amply paid the expence of a respectable body of Troop being kept on the Frontiers, which would have been a Check to every thing but small scouting parties. By a Letter I have received from Fort Schuyler of the 16th I find the minds of that Garrison are more disaffected to their situation & circumstances than ever; the true reason of Brant with his parties appearing before the Garrison was, the fullest assurances had been given him, that they would join him to a Man, indeed from their Situation & the great deficulty I have been under in procuring only a few pair of Shoes, it is what I have expected daily to hear, & they are made to believe they are

to remain until their three Years are finished. I am most respectfully Your Excellencies most obedient humble servant

						G. V. Schaick


Title: General Orders, 22 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Orangetown Tuesday August 22d [1780]

							Parole Oronoko
							 Countersigns To QuinWatchword Watch

					[Officers] For the Day Tomorrow[:] Brigadier General Wayne[,] Lieutenant Colonels Cobb[,] Vose[,] Brigade Major Ashley
					[Officer] For Guard[:] Major Talbot
					A Corporal and seven men for Fatigue on the Bake house from the 1st Pennsylvania brigade tomorrow morning five o clock to be relieved by a like number from the 2d Pennsylvania brigade the 24th and so on by the other Brigades daily in rotation.
					Orderly Serjeants for Court Martial Tomorrow from the right Wing—for the Orderly office from the 2d Pennsylvania and 2d Massachusetts brigades.
					The Guard at Talman’s to be relieved alternately by the Wings every two days—The right Wing gives the Guard Tomorrow.
					Lieutenant John Whiting of the 12th Massachusetts regiment is appointed Adjutant to the same from the 1st Instant vice Adjutant Englis resigned—and Ensign Samuel Meyricke Quarter Master vice said Whiting.
					The provost Marshal is to make daily returns of the Prisoners in Confinement to the Adjutant General who is to have such as are soldiers removed immediately to their respective brigades or if this should be attended with inconvenience on account of confining them properly there, he is to report their Names and Crimes to the Brigadiers or

Commandants of brigades who are requested to see that they are brought to immediate trial that the long Confinement to which many soldiers have been subjected may be avoided thereby; This is to be considered as a standing order and must be strictly observed.
					All recruits and drafts are to be returned fit for duty and Action after having been fourteen days with their regiment.
					Brigade returns of the rank and file agreeable to the above order are to be delivered at the orderly office tomorrow morning at Guard mounting—The Light Infantry are not to be included.

						After Orders
						The Army will march tomorrow morning the General will beat at five—The Assemblé at Six—and the March will commence at seven—The Quarter Master General will furnish the Order of March and the necessary Guides.

						Order of March
						The Army will march by Platoons from the right in the following Order.
						right Wing[:] The Van Guard consisting of the new Camp Guards of the right Wing[;] St Clairs Division[;] Stirling’s Division[; and] Connecticut Division[.] Park of Artillery[.] Rear Guard consisting of the old Camp Guards of the right Wing[.] Left Wing[:] The Van Guard consisting of the new Camp Guards of the Left Wing[;] Howe’s Division[;] McDougall’s Division[; and] Steuben’s Division[.] Rear Guard Consisting of the old Camp Guards of the Left wing succeeded by Bedkins Corps of Light Dragoons.
						sufficient Escorts for the Baggage of each wing to be detach’d from the rear Guards respectively[.] The Baggage of the Commander in Chief; and of The General Staff of the right Wing. The Baggage of the right wing in the usual order[.] The Baggage of the General Staff of the Left Wing[.] The Baggage of the Left wing in the usual order.
						The whole will move in one Column to the Fork of the road in the rear of the Light Infantry encampment where the two Wings will seperate and march in two Columns—the right with the Park of Artillery will take the schraulenburgh road the Left the Closter Road and will unite at the Ground which will be marked out near the Liberty pole.
						The Baggage will seperate at the same place that of the right Wing with the Commander in Chiefs baggage the Quarter Master and Commissary’s Stores will follow the right Column; the rest will follow the Left Wing.
						The Light Infantry will precede the Left Column two Miles in front ’till further Orders.
						The Corps of Marechausie will join the Light Infantry and take orders from the Marquis de La Fayette.

						When the Army arrives at its new Encampment all but the covered Waggons are to be delivered to the orders of the Waggon Mastr Genl.
						The Quarter master serjeant is to be with the Baggage of each regiment according to the regulations but no Baggage Guard whatever.
						The General expects that the strictest order and discipline will be observed on the march and that the officers commanding the respective Columns will communicate with each other and observe a Correspondency of movements.
						The General saw with peculiar pain much irregularity in the last March performed by the Army.
						The Men not well enough to march with their regiments are to remain on the ground with a sufficient number of Surgeons and tents for their accomodation.
						Two officers from each Division are to be left to superintend the sick and collect the stragglers; one of which will march on to the Army the day after tomorrow with all the stragglers and men well enough to march belonging to their divisions respectively.
						Lieutenant Colonel Cobb will command the Van Guard of the right Wing and Lieutenant Colonel Vose that of the Left They will receive their orders from Brigadier General Wayne—Lieutenant Colonel Littlefield to command the rear Guard of the right wing and Lieutenant Colonel Olney that of the Left—They will receive their Orders from Brigadier General Patterson.
						A Field Officer from the Connecticut Line will take the General superintendency of all the sick left on the Ground and will have the officers left from the several Divisions under his Directions.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 22 August 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

						Dear General
						Newport Augt 22d 1780

					The day before yesterday I was honored with yours of the 17th Instant. If his Excellency General de Rochambeau should consent to the three months militia marching forward while I remain in this quarter they shall be directed to the place you are pleased to point out. At present they are employed in fortifying and rendering very strong, Butts’s hill, a post which the Count considers of the highest importance, and the principal security to the safety of the Island. He has just informed me that the Works must be Pallisaded or friezed, the Ground being So filled With rocks as to prevent a proper height being given to the Ramparts, and parapets, or depth to the ditch. this, I suppose will be attended wth considerable Expence to the united States, as the Count always calls the Works on Butts’s Hill the american works. I have directed the D.Q.M. Genl to enquire where the materials can be procured. I wish a hint of your Excellency’s pleasure respecting it.
					The three months militia of this State are not yet raised. I have several times represented to Governor Greene that from the tenor of your Letters you supposed that that Regt was raised and in readiness to move when call’d for. the Governor informs me that the desire of the State to compel a number of delinquents on the late alarm to serve for the term of three months, and the meeting of the Council of war in a few days for the purpose, at present delays the raising the Regiment, but that it will be done.
					The very favorable manner in which your Excellency is pleased to express yourself respecting me and my conduct, I feel most sensibly. I shall at all times think myself very happy when my endeavors to Serve my Country meet your approbation. In my present Situation and all things considered nothing could reconcile me to be absent from the Main Army and from that honorable Command in it to which I am entitled under your immediate direction but the signification of your pleasure that I should remain longer here and the assurances you are pleased to give that I shall have Seasonable notice of, and with my

proper Command be present at any Capital movements the Army may make, and the apprehension that while the Army remains inactive, I may render the forces of our great and good Ally and my Country some Service here. I cannot but lament after the great Expence our Country has been at to recruit her Army and the expectation She had formed of it’s Success, an Embargo on the operations of the Campaign should take place, the issue of which I think from present appearances, is very uncertain.
					I have approved the Sentence of the Court martial on the three Culprits mentioned in the proceedings I had the honor to lay before your Excellency. Colo. Greene informs me that he thinks an example in his Regiment is absolutely necessary—it is therefore my intention to execute one of the Culprits and wish to have the other two pardoned. I apprehend I have ample power to Execute, but by the last Article of the regulations for the Government of the Army pass’d the 14 April 1777, I doubt my power to pardon—therefore request your direction in that particular. A fourth deserter who went off with the three who are now under Sentence, is apprehended at Boston and on his way to this place. he is said to be the principal offender. the Court will sit for his trial as soon as he arrives. If his Guilt should appear on trial, justice and the good of the Service may require that he should suffer—and the other three receive a pardon. it is a disagreable business for me to determine. I wish your Answer respecting the pardons as soon as may be Convenient.
					Being informed that there was a scarcity of Arms with the Army, I collected a number of old ones from the Store at Providence, had them repair’d and with them have armed Colonel Greenes Regiment. they were the best we could obtain and therefore were obliged to be contented with them. It is Said a Considerable number has arrived in the Ship Alliance from France. Colo. Greene wishes his regiment may be armed from them if agreable to your Excellency.
					The Brittish fleet Continue cruizing on and off as heretofore. Enclosed is the last intelligence I have received from Colonel Ledyard at New London. Your Excellency has probably much better. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedient ser.

						W. Heath


Title: Answer to Benjamin Moody’s Bill of Complaint, 22 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

					[22 Aug. 1780] This document is titled “The Answer of George Washington, Esquire, Surviving Executor of the last Will and Testament of Thomas Colvill, Gentn, deceased, to the Bill of Complaint exhibited against him by Benjamin Moody, Complainant.” Among the many complaints answered in this lengthy legal document, GW argues that the charges in Moody’s account submitted with his bill of complaint are “generally inadmissable.” As part of his answer, GW includes copies of four letters relating to the dispute exchanged between himself and Moody in 1779 and 1780. GW states that, as explained in his letters to Moody, he was “justifiable” in refusing to execute a deed which Moody desired for land involved in the case. “Equity requires” that payment due for the sale of the land “should be made in something of solid & substantial value.” GW believes this “to be indispensibly necessary to satisfy the demands of justice.” GW concludes the document by adding “that he has not a wish nor never had, but to do the most impartial and

complete justice to All the parties concerned as well to the Complainant as to the Creditors and Legatees of the said Thomas Covil.”


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 22 August 1780
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Trenton August 22. 1780

					Your Favour of the 20th Instant came to Hand this Afternoon & it gives me great Pleasure to find I have anticipated your Excellys Desires in almost every pa[r]ticular. I have encamp’d the Troops on the Banks of the Delaware, & drawn a very considerable Part of my Supplies from Bucks County, so as not to interfere with the Quota of the County to be furnished for the Army. Tho Col. Stewart did not give me any particular Information of the State of Provisions at the Army I learn’t so much from other Quarters, as to induce me to halt here untill I should know Your farther Pleasure. I shall endeavour to delay the Troops from the back Counties so as to prevent their adding to the present Scarcity—And have directed the Quarter Master & Commissary here to forward all that comes to Hand without any Respect to us, as we will shift for ourselves. I fear the discharging the Militia now here would have many bad Consequences, as it would be a Tour of Duty—the Supplies furnished them of various Kinds, would also be carried off at least in a considerable Degree, & it would be absolutely impracticable to assemble them on any short Notice—in that Case we must call forth another Sett as awkward as these were, when we first brought them out—to remove them into Bucks County would also be attended with its Inconveniences, as many of them would go home when on the other Side of the River, our present Situation is extremely convenient to Bucks County to get our Wants supplied, & the River forms a Sort of Barrier—The Property of the People of this State has been untouched hitherto, & a good Market is opened so that the Inhabitants feel no Inconvenince from us. About 400 of the upper Militia cross’d at Coryells Ferry yesterday, & were on the Route to Camp—but in Consequence of your Excellys Favour of this Day have ordered them to join me here, as by this Means they will be supplied from the same Sources that we are, & will also be improving under our Inspectors—When they arrive we shall have about

1500 Men—two Companies of Artillery with 4 Field Pieces & 25 Horse. I think our dismissing would also be impolitick on Account of the Supplies—while we are out the People of the Country will be interested to exert themselves least their Fathers, Brothers or Sons may want—there is no Sympathy for others to be compared with that towards your own Family, & I am perswaded it will be a powerful Motive to procure & forward Provisions. In every View therefore it appears to me best to remain here & wait your Excellys farther Orders—Whatever might have been the Case before Harvest there now is certainly no real Scarcity; the Means of obtaining it occasi[o]n the only Difficulty: as to a great Part of Pennsyla nothing is to be done by fair Means, but if Major Lee or any other prudent discreet Officer could be spared to go into those Parts of the Country where the disafected reside, I am of Opinion it would have a good Effect. Even in this State the Contractors have been obliged to use the light Horse I have, to procure necessaries. The rich & fertile County of Lancaster could do a great deal if it would—a fair Oppy now offers to justify Force, as the Waggon Master in the Executi[o]n of his Office collecting Waggons & Horses has been most barbarously used by the Menonists or dutch Quakers in that County. We have assessed the Counties in certain Proportions, & have directed the Commissioners to assess the Townships, my Idea therefore would be to send a Party of Horse into each Township which did not supply its Quota by a given Day—I am perswaded a firm vigorous Exertion of Power directed properly against the dissafected would produce more than all the Addresses that could be wrote. I am also perswaded it must come to this, & therefore the sooner & more systematically it was undertaken the better. The Bank Notes do not circulate, so that the great End proposed by that Insti[tu]tion must I fear fail, as the Money subscribed will be soon expended, & unforeseen Events from a continued Depreciation will more & more contract their Powers. Your Excelly may be assured that we shall not only concur in, but promote & forward any compulsive Measures which Circumstances may require: But Experience every Day evinces that we cannot depend on the Militia, or Force of the Country to execute any Measures of this Kind.
					There are now in Philadelphia in the Hands of Mr Holker 5000 Barrells of Flour he has also 3000 in Maryland purchased to send partly to the Havannah & partly to the French West Indies. If these are not of indispensable Necessity in those Places they would prove a great Supply. I have been long of Opinion, that an open Export or none at all, would be most for our interest, some cannot help smuggling when they see the same Articles shipp’d by others while their Hands are tied.
					I hope the Steps I have taken will meet your Excellys Approbation

& am with the greatest Respect & Regard Dear Sir Your most Obedt & devoted Hbble Serv.

						Jos: Reed


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 22 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

						Dr Sir
						Head Qrs Orange Town August the 22. 1780

					I am again reduced to the painful necessity of informing Your Excellency of the situation in which we are, with respect to provision of the meat kind—and of earnestly entreating every assistance in your power to give, for our relief.
					The whole Army has been already without meat one day and a great part of it Two. We have none now in Camp, and no good prospect that I can find, of receiving any within a reasonable time. The most we can hope for, from any resources within our own command, are Sixty barrels of Salt meat on the way from West point—which post is now almost entirely degarnished & cannot have by the last Return, more than a Hundred and Twenty Barrels at most in Store. Your Excellency from this state of matters will but too sensibly feel for our alarming situation, and the more so, when You reflect we are in a Country that did not afford much meat at any time, & that it has been exhausted by the Armies on both sides to the extreme distress of it’s Inhabitants. Our condition at any period would be painful and highly injurious to the public service, but to be in a starving situation at the commencement of the Campaign—before our operations have even begun—is peculiarly so—must be discouraging in the extreme to our New Levies, who now compose half our Army—and must blast and put an end to all our prospects, if we are not relieved from it, tho in every other respect events should arise bidding fair for success. I will not attempt to detail the consequences to which this would lead, nor the ideas and apprehensions it would excite in our Allies and Friends abroad—nor the confidence the Enemy would derive from it. These will but too readily occur to Your Excellency and I am sure You will believe with me, that our friends would be greatly alarmed & embarrassed at least, at the circumstance—while the cry of the Enemy would be, we will persevere in the War—America

cannot maintain even a small Army, for our present one cannot be ranked under any other appellation; or what will be equally encouraging to them, but more disgraceful to us, they will say their boasted patriotism is gone, or their wisdom and energy, for though their resources for war still remain, they will not bring them into action. I am now arranging matters to make a forage on this impoverished people, having no other alternative left me, from which I could draw the least possible relief—and even from this—tho it will ruin them, I expect to derive the most trifling succour. I rely on that goodness and promptitude I have ever found in Your Excellency to promote the public service, and am persuaded You will exert all your influence to give us relief, on the present important & alarming occasion. I have the honor to be with the most sincere respect & esteem Dr Sir yr most Obedt servt

						Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 22 August 1780
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

						Dear General
						Lebanon [Conn.] 22nd August 1780

					On the receipt of yours of the 8th instant—Majr Murnan came and informed me that as I had orderd the men to cut fascines, gabions &c. on Norwich River, he thought his presence would be necessary to instruct them further in the business of their employment. I accordingly directed him to remain with them untill he thought they had obtained sufficient knowledge.
					Colo. Wyllys, Commandant of those troops by his letter of yesterday says—“Major Murnan hath endeavored to instruct the officers and soldiers in the business he was appointed for, to the utmost of his abilities, and I doubt not, but what they have acquired a sufficient knowledge”—The Major is now on his way to Head Quarters. I am, with every sentiment of Esteem and Consideration your Excellency’s Most Obedient humble Servant

						Jonth; Trumbull


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Seth Warner, 22 August 1780
From: Warner, Seth
To: Washington, George

						Bennington [Vt.]augt 22 1780
						May it Please your Excellency

					Capt. Gideon Brownson Capt. Simeon Smith and Lt Michael Dunning was Taken from my Regiment in July 1779, are Now Suffering a Close Confinement in A Neosious Goul under the Provost Gard at Quebeck which I understand Proves To them Very unhealthy and is Likely Soon to Prove the Death of Capt. Brownson, I think it a pity that men Like them who have Faithfully Served their Country Ever Since the war Began Should Pass unnotised, But if Possoble I would pray there Exchange, if you have officers that you Can Send To me of Equeal Rank Together with your orders you may Depend that I Shall Be faithfull in my Performance the officers you may Send Till the Exchange is made Shall Receive Gentlemen Like Treatment Likewise I am informed of a Lt in Colo. Van Scoock [Van Schaick] Regiment is Suffering with them Should Be glad might Share the Same favour for which purpose I have Sent Lt Eli Brownson Exspress who you may Depend will Bee faithfull with what Ever Business he may Be Trusted with. I am you Excellency obedient Humble Servant

						Seth warner


Title: General Orders, 23 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Teaneck [N.J.] Wednesday August 23d 1780

							Parole Hampton
							 Countersigns How WhoWatchword Where.

					[Officers] For the day Tomorrow[:] Brigadier General Huntington[,] Lieutenant Colonels Sumner[,] Badlam[,] Brigade Major Darby
					[Officers] For Guard[:] This Day Major Talbot[,] Tomorrow Major Grier
					The Guards to parade at five o clock this afternoon near the York brigade where the Grand Parade is assigned for the present.
					A Sub. two serjeants and thirty rank and file for Fatigue from the right Wing to be sent immediately to Hackinsack new bridge.
					The Army being now very near the Enemy the General flatters himself every officer and soldier will make it a point of honor as well as duty to keep constantly in Camp and to be at the shortest Notice ready to act as Circumstances may require: He is at the same time persuaded should an opportunity be afforded us that every part of the army will vie with each other in the display of that conduct fortitude and bravery which ought to distinguish troops fighting for their Country—for their Liberty—for everything dear to the Citizen or to the soldier. He also hopes to hear of no wanton depredations on the persons or property of the inhabitants for nothing can be more inconsistent or infamous than to violate those rights we profess and are bound to defend. The Officers of Police will be particularly careful to prevent the destruction of Fences which they certainly have it in their power to effect.
					The officers commanding brigades and regiments are to see that the above order is read to the soldiers and the necessity of an implicit Compliance therewith impressed on their Minds.
					An Alarm will be communicated by the discharge of Two Cannon from the Park.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benedict Arnold, 23 August 1780
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir,
						Head Quarters Robinson’s House August 23rd 1780.

					Yesterday I was honored with Your Excellency’s Favor of the 21st instant.
					Your Directions to communicate to Genl Heath any Intelligence I

may receive of the Movement of the Enemy to the Eastward, in Force, shall be punctually complied with.
					Agreeable to Your Excellency’s Desire, I have made Enquiry, Whether Colo. Livingston can furnish an Officer capable of executing the Offices of Depy Adjt Genl & Sub Inspector to my Command, but find none fit for that Department; Of this I have given Notice to Baron Stuben, by this Express, requesting him that a proper Officer may be sent from the Army. Such an Officer is absolutely necessary at this Garrison. Those of my Family have no Leizure to attend to many Matters, which fall under the immediate Direction of that Office.
					I do myself the Honor to transmit to Your Excellency, the Proceedings of a Genl Court Martial against a certain Nathaniel Ackesly & reuben Weeks, who came out from the Enemy & were taken going into the Lines with Cattle & Horses they had stolen; They were tried as Spies & the Court have sentenced them accordingly. I shall be happy in receiving Your Excellency’s Orders with respect to them. With sentiments of the most lively regard & respect, I have the Honor to be, Dear Sir, Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & Very Hble servt

						B. Arnold


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 23 August 1780
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Morris Town [N.J.] 23d Augt 1780

					I informed your Excellency in my last that I should immediately give directions to the Colls to exert themselves to compleat their Quotas of recruits in the Jersy Brigade but on looking over our Act for that purpose, I find to my great mortification that the time in which the officers were to procure the Levies for that Service is expired, & with it their Authority to proceed farther in the Business—there is now no other Chance than a new Act, & as our Assembly stands adjourned to the 13th of Sepr, I have, to save as much time as possible, sent for the Speaker to endeavour to prevail on him to call the Assembly as much sooner as they can be convened.
					I inclose Hayden’s Affidavit who lately escaped from the Guard in camp, & has since surrender’d him self to Justice on a promise of pardon & in Consideration of the discoveries he can make—There

appears the greatest corruption in the officer who suffered his Escape, & whom he cannot describe by name, but probably the description he has given in his deposition may be sufficiently designative of the person—I have the honour to be With the greatest Esteem Dear Sir your Excellencys most humble & very obedt Ser.

						Wil: Livingston


Title: From George Washington to Colonel William Malcom, 23 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

						Sir
						[Orangetown, N.Y., 23 Aug. 1780]

					When you arrive at Dobbe’s ferry agreeable to the orders sent you yesterday your attention is to be directed to the security of the works &

cannon at that place and of the sick & stores left at this place. For these purposes you will make the best disposition in your power and use every precaution for gaining the earliest intelligence of a movement against you—& you will furnish what ever little guards may be necessary in proportion to your strength. You will assist Col. Gouvion with the fatigue parties he may want.
					There will be a part of the Park on the Road to Paramus from this place about five miles off, of which you will inform yourself—and in case of any motions of the Enemy, you will give notice to the Officer commanding the guard to remove it towards Paramus.
					You will give me instant advice of any movement of the Enemy—my Quarters will be near the liberty Pole.
					For your own security it will be necessary you should keep a party of observation at Niac & a guard at the Slot. Given at Hd Qrs Orange Town 23d August 1780.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Phillips, 23 August 1780
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						New York August 23d 1780

					The Officers of the Troops of Convention at present on parole at New York, I mean abstracted from myself, Aide de Camp, and Secretary, Major General De Riedesel and the immediate Officers of his family, have memorialed me upon the subject of their present situation setting forth, that the American Officers against whom they are opposed upon an unlimited parole are in the full possession of their parole liberty in their native Country, living with their friends and families; that on the contrary the Officers of the Troops of Convention being at New York receive no benefit from their situation; they live indeed among their Country Men and that is all, but to give any real effect to their paroles, it is necessary they should be allowed to go to Europe.
					I have considered this matter with some attention; I have connected it with the terms of the proposals which gave rise to the last meeting at Amboy and added the Sentiments of all the Commissioners who met there which seemed to be that, after a General Exchange should take place, all the remaining Officers, as well as those who might hereafter be made prisoners of War, should be immediately allowed to go upon parole, and, as according to the plan at that time settled a Number of Officers of the Troops of Convention must have remained unexchanged it was supposed they would be suffered to go upon parole to Europe; Indeed, in the proposals alluded to where the Commanders in Chief on both sides have a latitude of recalling the Officers from parole there is an Express stipulation that, for the British Officers who might be in Europe, an equal number, Rank for Rank, of American Officers

should be continued on their paroles till the others could be sent for to America.
					From the foregoing considerations I am really of Opinion that, upon liberal and equitable principles, the Officers I have mentioned have a claim for going to their Country and their friends in the same manner as the American Officers opposed to them on parole and who are in that fortunate situation.
					The Paroles signed by these Officers are general, and Men of less scruples might take advantage from them, but that is a principle, I have no need to say, I shall never countenance or permit for it will never be brought into reflection.
					I will, Sir, submit this matter to Your Excellency’s consideration and make no doubt but as a Man of Sense, honour, and humanity You will give it mature deliberation and I think as I hope the result will be a permission for the Officers going upon their paroles to Europe—But should it prove otherwise I could wish as a personal favour that the four following Gentlemen may be allowed that permission and I will be answerable that, if in Six Months they are not Exchanged, they shall be then sent for and that they shall return by the very earliest opportunity. The American Officers at present opposed to them on parole will in course remain uncalled for or may be changed for any others Your Excellency prefers—The names of the British Officers are Major Harnage, Captain Hawker, Captain Vallancy, and Lieutenant Lord Torphichen, the latter Gentleman’s father died sometime ago, his Mother is just dead; he is within a few Months of being of Age; his family Estates, fortunes, Brothers and Sisters all depend upon him for Security and protection; his Military profession is no longer of any Consequence to him but as it proves unfortunately a Bar to his going home: Under this description I am certain Your Excellency will extend Your assistance so far as may be possible.
					Should it be adopted that Officers of the Troops of Convention might be permitted to go home upon their paroles to Europe, and I open upon this subject from there being a great number of Officers whose situations are truly distressing, several of them in extreme bad health, several whose fortunes are ruined, many who have parents and relations dead by whom they have acquired fortunes which they cannot possess with out being present, some who have Estates in Contest and a variety of other motives which lead my Compassion for them to try every means for their interest and advantage, I observe, Sir, that as unfortunately all hopes of a General Exchange seem to be over, if it will be permitted for a certain number of Officers of the Troops of Convention to thus go on parole to Europe, Sir Henry Clinton will allow an equal number, Rank for Rank, or otherwise by Tariff where similar Ranks will not apply, of

the American Officers prisoners of War upon Long Island to go out to their Country, friends, and families and to remain in that situation on their paroles untill Exchanged.
					I am sorry to have troubled Your Excellency with so long a letter; I was indeed in hopes there would not have been occasion for any such, but as it is I own my heart bleeds for my suffering friends and I wish to serve them if I can.
					I shall take it as a great favour if you will be so good, Sir, as to give an immediate answer to this letter, particularly as it relates to the four Gentlemen I have named as there will be an opportunity of their going in a few days for Europe, should they have that liberty. I have the honour to be, Sir, with great personal respect Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant

						W. Phillips


Title: General Orders, 24 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Tean Neck [N.J.] Thursday August 24th 1780

							Parole Monmouth.
							 Countersigns, Mars: Now.Watchword, Be ready—

					[Officer] For Guard[:] Major Wallbridge
					The Army will draw three days flour and bake it and as soon as Beef arrives will draw and cook as much as the Weather will permit.
					The General reminds the Troops of the order of yesterday.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Jacob Bayley, 24 August 1780
From: Bayley, Jacob
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Newbury [Vt.] 24th August 1780

					My second party is arived from Canada but for want of an Interpreter got no Inteligence of Consiquence worth the Cost of an Express we only find by them that the Enemy Lately keep their Small parties out at Least half way to us—Two parties of French are now in Canada or on their Return one from towards Quebeck the other from Sarell those were sent from Head Quarters by the Marquess when they Return I Shall

Send Immediately but am much put to it for Cash for their Expence and the Expresses—a Small party of Tories and Indians have been to a Back Town 40 miles Below this, Captivated three men, plundered a Number of Women, killed a number of Cattle, and got off Clear—I Expect when Coll Johnson has Rested he will pay us a Visit: I hope we Shall be Ready for him—Our wheat is in our Barnes and have Very Great plenty. I Am Sr Your Exelancy’s Humle Sert

						Jacob Bayley

						P.S. Bread Enough now in this Country for allmost any Number of Troops.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 24 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

						Sir
						[24 Aug. 1780]

					You are appointed to the command of the Light Infantry and four brigades from your own Wing to be employed upon a forage dow⟨n⟩ to Bergen and from thence up to the English neighbourhood. You will make the necessary disposition for your own security and the Waggons employed upon the occasion.
					Such are the necessities of the Army and such the situation of the Inhabitants being all within the power of the Enemy that you will make the forage as extensive as possible in the Articles of hay and grain as well as in Cattle hogs and sheep fit for slaughter; and horses fit for the use of the Army. All the articles taken are to be receipted for by the respective departments to which they belong; and the whole sent up to the Army and deliverd over to the Officers in the several departments to be appointed to receve and receipt for the same: except such articles of provision and forage as may be necessary for the subsistence of the Party under your command.
					As soon as you have compleated the forage you will draw off the Troops and join the Army. Should the Enemy attempt to interrupt you in the business, you must govern your self according to circumstances, leaving you at liberty either to attack or retire, as you may think prudent from the force they appear in. Particular care is to be taken that the men dont straggle and that no unnecessary distress or oppression is brought upon the Inhabitants. Given &ca this 24th day of Augt 1780.

						G. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General James Hamilton, 24 August 1780
From: Hamilton, James
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Virginia 24th August 1780

					Having obtained Colonel Woods consent to Write Your Excellency, I shall in as few Words as possible mention, that since the 6th of January When the scarcity of Meal begun the Troops of Convention Quarter’d in Albemarle Barracks have been in the greatest distress. First When that article was Wanted and the Inhabitants prohibited selling What the Comissaries could not supply the Troops with—& this continued ’till Coll Wood arrived, who soon mended Matters—By degree’s the Arrears of Meal were all paid up—much about the time the scarcity of Meat comenced—Viz. the 8th of Aprile.
					By my two Letters to Major Genl Phillips Your Excellency Will observe the different periods of the Deficien[c]ies suffise it to say, that since the era Mentioned, there was Yesterday sevinty Days due.
					Many Causes are ascribed for the scarcity’s having happen’d, Which is not my province to enter on; But one thing I can assure Your Excellency of, that When Mutton Was brought to the Barracks & offer’d the Continental Comissaries they never had a farthing to pay for them, the same must happen in the Country even after the Comissioners have Sequestred Provisions for the use of the Public.
					Want of Carriages is another Cause none of Which is the concern of the Troops of Convention, Who if detained, Were at least entitled to that usage practiced in Civlized Nations, Which they doubly merited from their unexampled patience and good behavior.
					Colonel Wood Who has done every thing in his power will do them justice on this score, and the same justice requires, my mentioning the very great satisfaction this Gentleman’s Behavior and Conduct has given both to Officers and Men, not one of Whom at present I am certain ascribes any part of their present painful situation to him[.] they believe and With reason the Country has it not, and that Money is Wanting.
					My Duty requires this representation, at the same time have not a doubt of every thing’s being fully explained by Colonel Wood, and

have but to request that my two Letters to Major General Phillips & Lieutt Coan of the 62d Regt may have liberty to enter New York, it being certified by the Physicians that Mr Coans health requires his Native Air. I have the Honor to be Sir Your Excellencies Most Obedt And Most Humble Servt

						Jas Hamilton Brigdr Genl


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 24 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

						Sir,
						Head Quarters Aug. 24th 1780

					In the report of the march of yesterday, it appears there was to your baggage a guard of a serjeant and four men, contrary to the regulations and to General orders. I am persuaded this must have happened by mistake; but as it is of the greatest importance that the General officers should set an example of regularity to the army I mention the matter to you that you may take effectual care to prevent the like in future. I am with great esteem Sir Your most Obedt servant


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 24 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

						Head Qrs [] Miles from Fort Lee [N.J.]Augt 24 1780
						Sir

					I am now to acknowledge the Honor of Your Excellency’s dispatches of the 9th, which I received four or five days ago, and which I have been prevented answering before, by a variety of pressing business.
					With respect to the exchange of Officers—I beg leave to refer Congress to the Inclosures No. 1.2.3.4.5 & 6 which comprehend the correspondence which has passed of late between Us & the Enemy on the subject—and by which they will perceive the footing on which the business stands—and that I have been doing already, all in my power to accomplish their wishes on this head. I expect General Lincoln will be in Camp the 10th of next Month from a Letter I received from ⟨him⟩ yesterday, with a view of meeting ⟨General⟩ Phillips on the 12th at Elizabeth Town, agreable to their mutual desires and a proposition which has passed between them for the purpose, when I will direct Mr Skinner, the Deputy Commissary, to attend and endeavour to effectuate an Exchange on the principles, and to the extent Congress have mentioned in their Act of the 7th. I shall include the case of Genl Burgoyne in my Instructions to him, presum⟨ing⟩ it will be agreeble to Congress, if I do ⟨not receive⟩ a Letter from them⟨, expressive of their⟩ sense to the contrary. ⟨His exchange, I think,⟩ under all circumstances, for our Colonels, who cannot be released on the principle of equal rank, would be a very fortunate event, but it is one I do not expect, from the little estimation in which they seem to hold Him. If an exchange is gone into, I would observe—the Rule of seniority will be departed from, in the instance of Colo. Webb & Lt Colo. Ramsay. The prisoners taken in the Eagle packet were captured by a private Vessel, whose Owners have expressed a desire and insisted that the former should have the benifit of them, so few as it should be necessary for his own exchange, and the state of Maryland has claimed the release of the Latter for Lt Colo. Connolly, who was taken by them, as Other States had done in like circumstances. The exceptions in favor of these Two Gentlemen, are founded on these reasons. In every other instance of exchanges, where similar causes have not existed and ⟨been insisted⟩ on by the States—the business so far as it has been directed by me, has uniformly been conducted on the principles of equality of rank and priority of capture. I am exceedingly happy that measures are taking for the support and

accommodation of our prisoners and I hope their situation in future will be more comfortable than it has hitherto been.
					As to that part of the Act of the 7th which respects the establishing a Resident Commissary of prisoners at New York—I beg leave to inform Congress, that I am in some doubt, whether they wish to have both an Agent and a Commissary to reside there. If they only mean to have an Agent, the Inclosures No. 7.8.9.10 & 11 which I have also the honor to transmit, will shew the Steps I have taken to get One appointed, in pursuance of their direction. Should it be their intention to have a Commissary likewise, they will be pleased to inform me, and on what footing I am to make the proposition. It is probable nothing but a like indulgence to the Enemy will induce them to consent to the measure.
					It gives me pain to inform Congress, that we are again in a most disagreable situation with respect to provision of the meat kind—and we have not from any thing I can find, any good prospect of being either intirely relieved, or of being tolerably well supplied within a reasonable time. A great part of the Troops on the 21st ⟨& 22d⟩ were without ⟨any⟩ supply of this Article, and the whole ⟨on one⟩ of these days; and since, those that have received, have had but the most scanty pittance and chiefly such as has been exacted from the exhausted Stores of the Inhabitants. The circumstances we were in determined me, ⟨to⟩ proceed with the Army to this place yes⟨terday,⟩ with a view of attempting some relief from a forage—and we have now parties deta⟨ched⟩ into the Country below, into Bergen & Barba⟨does⟩ necks, to collect any provision that may ⟨be there.⟩ I don’t expect but little succour from the meas⟨ure,⟩ as these places from their contiguity to the Enemy, will probably be found much dra⟨ined⟩—any thing however will be acceptable, ⟨and⟩ will contribute to silence the Complaints of the Troops. I have written to Governor Trumbull on our situation, and entreated him to use all his influence to assist Us. The state of flour is such, as to afford us a daily supply, but even our prospects of this Article are by no means such as to make it certain that this will be the case long, especially if we are obliged to continue issuing an increased quantity on account of the failure of meat. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obed. servant

						Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 24 August 1780
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

						sir,
						Philadelphia August 24. 1780.

					By the Act of Congress herewith enclosed you will observe, that, the Court Martial having acquitted Doctor Shippen he is discharged from Arrest.
					Your Excellency will also receive enclosed an Act of Congress of the 22. Instant, subjecting Delinquents in the Departments of the Quarter Master General, Commissary General of Purchases, and of Issues, Clothier General, Commissary General of Military Stores, Purveyor General of the Hospitals, and Hide Department to Trial by Court Martial. I have the Honor to be with the highest respect your Excellencys most obedient humble servant

						Sam. Huntington President


Title: From George Washington to Major Henry Lee, Jr., 24 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry Jr.

						Head Quarters near Liberty Pole [N.J.]24th Augt 1780.
						Dear Sir

					You will be pleased immediately upon the receipt of this to commence the Forage of Barbadoes Neck and as far up as Polifly—The necessities of the Army require that it should be executed as extensively as possible in the Articles of Cattle Hogs and Sheep fit for slaughter—You will endeavour to gain a knowledge of the well and ill affected inhabitants and make distinctions accordingly, but your general Rule must be to leave only a sufficiency for the uses of the several families. You will observe the same Rule as to Horses—fit for service. If you can procure an intelligent inhabitant to attend you, he will be useful to you in the above respects—You will endeavour to load the Waggons which you have impressed and those which will be sent to you with Oats in preference to any other kind of Forage—Good Hay should next engage your attention and after that Wheat or any other kind of Grain.
					Persons from the Quarter Master Genl and Commy will attend you to take an account of and give Receipts for the articles belonging to their respective departments. The Horses—Cattle Hogs and sheep are to be sent as they are collected to the Liberty Pole where proper persons will be ready to receive them—If it possible send up forty or fifty Cattle this Evening—The Forage is to be sent to Bogarts Mills which is about half way between Tappan and Paramus. I am &.

						P.S. Mr Worthington will receive the Cattle—Sheep and Hogs at the liberty Pole and Mr Storey the Horses.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Peter Muhlenberg, 24 August 1780
From: Muhlenberg, John Peter Gabriel
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Richmond August 24th 1780

					The detachment at Chesterfield Court House compos’d of Old Soldiers—Recruits—& Deserters, amounting to 300 Rank & file, fit for duty, are at length in readiness to March, & will set out this Week to join the Southern Army, agreeable to the Orders I recd from General Gates it was with the utmost difficulty, we could procure the most necessary Articles to equipp them for the Field, They have no Tents, but they are well Armd and most of them have Blanketts & Knapsacks.
					One full Company of Colo. Gibson’s Regt will march at the same time. The Governor & Councill expected the two State Regiments should first be filld up, out of the New Levies, and seem to think Your Excellency did not leave them out intentionally.
					The New Levies are beginning to Assemble from the Counties nearest the Rendezvous, but in what manner They are to be equipped for the Field is at present a Mystery to me; I Flattred myself from the promises I had recd, that the most necessary Articles would be furnishd by the State, but my hopes are cut short by the answer I recd a few days ago, from the Governor & Council to my requisition—They say. “The Commissary of Stores has attended the Board this Morning & informs them, that he is not at present prepard, to furnish any tents, Blanketts, or any Clothing for the New Levies and whether he will be better enabled in time to come depends entirely upon some lucky arrivals, a circumstance too precarious to reckon upon, this matter is mentiond to You Sir, that You may lose no time, in making the Application to the Board of War at Philada as was intimated in Your Letter.[”]
					As I expect the New Levies will nearly be Assembled by the first of October I propose sending Colo. Febiger to Philadelphia, in a few days, to procure & forward on the most necessary Articles, that the March of the Troops may not be retarded for want of them.
					We have no News from the Southward, but what the enclosed paper contains—I had the Honor to mention to Your Excellency in a former

Letter, that about 200 of our Men taken at Charlestown had made their escape from the Enemy, and requested Your Excellencys orders relative to them. They continue coming in, and as the Act for raising the New Levies, clears every division that apprehends a Deserter, some of these Men have been taken up on their way in; This inducd me to put an Advertisemt in the paper, according to this they cannot be deemd Deserters, till after the 11th of October. I have the Honor to be with great Respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt hble Servt

						P: Muhlenberg


Title: General Orders, 25 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Tean Neck [N.J.] Friday, August 25th 1780

							Parole Warsaw
							 Countersigns N: T.Watchword Bravery

					[Officers] For the Day Tomorrow[:] Brigadier General Patterson[,] Lieutenant Colonels Sill[,] Holdridge[,] Brigade Major White.
					[Officer] For Guard[:] Major Torrey
					As it is not an unusual thing for Soldiers in an engagement to expend their Ammunition at too great a distance, to do much execution and then make the want of it a plea to quit the field of action the General enjoins in very earnest terms upon all officers to use their utmost endeavours to prevent this Practice, nor is the want of ammunition to be an excuse even if it cannot be supplied—The soldiers who are without it are to depend upon their Bayonets ’till the Conflict is decided—This order is to be frequently read to the men that none of them may hereafter plead ignorance in Excuse for their disobedience of it.
					The unsoldierly and dangerous practice of firing Guns in the Camp and its vicinity is again revived—The General does not suspect old Soldiers can be guilty of so unmilitary a practice but attributes it to the new Levies who may do it through ignorance—The commandg officers of Corps are to be attentive therefore in seeing that the orders against it are read to them and the Guards are particularly charged to see these orders executed.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 25 August 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

						Dear General,
						Newport August 25th 1780

					I am just honored with yours of the 21st Instant by the Same Express with one from Governor Trumbull of the 23d and one from Major Talmadge of the 22d—they all contain nearly the same intelligence.
					Colonel Potter of South Kingston this moment writes me that a Gentleman on Sunday last, four o’Clock P.M. Saw the Brittish fleet W.S.W. from Montauq point Steering for Sandy hook.
					All the intelligence I receive is immediately Communicated to the General and Admiral of France. We are compleating our Works with all possible diligence.
					two Cruizers only appear off our harbour today. I have the honor to be, with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

						W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from John Mercereau, 25 August 1780
From: Mercereau, John
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Woodbrid[g]e [N.J.] August 25. 1780

					Since I Left Head Quarters I have Been very Deligent in gitting the Account of Brooklin works I Sent Over to Both my Corespondent the One is very Sick I have Sent a Second time & found him Recovering hope Soon to git a plan of the works at Brooklin in Sending to the Other Corespondent the first Order miscaried but have Sent again which he has Receiv’d that I Now Expect from Both assoon as I Receive it Shall Come on imediately to Head Quarters, A Report prevails in Newyork that they are going to Send all the prisoners to Hallifax for Security. Your Obedient Servent

						John Mercereau


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 25 August 1780
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Trenton August 25. 1780

					Upon receiving your Favour of the 20th Instt I dispatch’d Orders to the Militia which had cross’d at Coryells Ferry to join me here & to halt the Militia of the back Counties till farther Orders: Being now so fully apprized of the real Situation of Things I shall endeavour in every Respect to make such Arrangements as to forward the Supplies & prevent unnecessary Consumption. A great Number of Waggons composed of those ordered out by the State as well as impress’d by Major Lee

having come hither Mr Furman consulted me what should be done with them—as he had no Flour to forward we thought it best to detain them to take the 400 Barrells of Biscuit, which were hourly expected: But this Morning I received a Letter from the Vice President with the following Paragraph “Mr Risberg Commissary of Issues here informed me yesterday that the Board of Admiralty have requested him to supply all the Frigates in this River & Bay with Bread. I think we now have 4 here viz. The Saratoga, the Confederacy, Trumbull & Deane and that the 400 Barrells of Bread formerly mentioned to you was stop’t & applied to their Use.” In a Postscript he adds—“Our Commissioner informs me he has just purchased 200 Barrells more which if not stop’d as the former was will go off to day.” The Commissioners of Purchase in the several Counties really appear to me to be in earnest—and if all private Purchases for Exportation could be prevented—the publick made under a general Direction or at least having a Correspondence with each other so as to avoid Competition I am persuaded we should do a great deal. We have appointed a general Directer in Pennsylvania with a Salary of £1000 ⅌ Ann. Specie—we have appropriated the Monies arising from confiscated Estates & mortgaged the State Lands for this Purpose the Taxes are push’d with a Degree of Energy unknown in former Times: But not satisfied with this we have sent a Person abroad to pledge the State itself to procure Supplies for the Troops & support the publick Credit—if these & the great internal Supply we give in Consequence of the Residence of Congress do not sufficiently refute the Misrepresentations of Persons who taking a decided Part in our State Politicks propagate Prejudices of every kind against the Government & those who administer it we are unfortunate, but I am confident Time will remove the Shade & every good Man will do us Justice—I have now only to add that the Assembly of Pennsylvania will meet in a few Days & if your Excelly would wish any Thing farther to be done by them I will most zealously execute any Measures which may be desired for the publick Benefit. I am with the greatest Regard & Respect Dear Sir Your most Obed. & Affect. Hbble Serv.

						Jos: Reed.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant General Rochambeau, 25 August 1780
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

						Sir.
						Newport. August 25th 1780.

					Your Excellency’s favor of the 21st instant, I just now received, together with advices from the Generals on this side Hudson’s river, opposite to the S[o]und, giving a sure intelligence of Mr Clinton’s imbarking a considerable number of Troops. I have another Letter from Stonington, advising the English fleet of the Line having been seen W.S.W. Moncton’s point on Sunday Last on its way to Sandy-hook. I do not believe that Mr Clinton will be mad enough to come here But I firmly believe that either he goes with, or sends forces to Jamaica, as this may chance to be, one of the three things which will make us act on the offensive side, Viz., their taking away both Sea and Land forces from New york. I beg of Your Excellency to appoint The rendezvous, we so earnestly desire, The Admiral and I can go as far as hartford, even as far as Danbury, that you may have the Least road to make I find myself happy, Sir, to see that my military ideas (which will always be referred to yours) correspond with your Excellency’s, with regard to the important points, as to the small matters, which, however, are absolutely necessary for the putting of these orders together; in half an hour, your Excellency’s orders will make all those little difficulties disappear, if we can but converse together so much time. We saw to day 6. men of war or Frigates, two of which were very near, and the 4. others much farther off. When Your Excellency by the advices you may have from New-york will be sure of the destination of an imbarkment for the West Indies, The Admiral and I think that then we must not lose one moment to have that meeting which we so earnestly desire, that we may afterwards carry on our projects with the greatest speed. I am With respect Sir Your Excellency’s Most obedient humble servant

						le comte de rochambeau


Title: General Orders, 26 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Tean Neck [N.J.] saturday August 26th 1780

							Parole Berwick.
							 Countersigns Boon: Berne.Watchword Look sharp

					[Officers] For the Day Tomorrow[:] Brigadier General Huntington[,] Lieutenant Colonels Whiting[,] Huntington[,] Major Smith
					[Officer] For Guard[:] Major Reid


Title: From George Washington to Major General Benedict Arnold, 26 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters Bergen County [N.J.] 26th Augt 1780

					Our necessities will oblige us to draw down part of the Flour and Rum from West Point—The Commy General of Issues who is fully acquainted with our wants and expectations will be as sparing as possible of his draft upon your Magazine.
					I have this moment recd yours of the 23d. I will take the Contents into consideration and give you an answer in my next. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

						Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 26 August 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						At the three Pigeons
							August 26th 1780

					There has been committed some of the most horrid acts of plunder by some of the Pennsylvania line that has disgracd the American Arms during the War. The instances of plunder and violence is equal to any thing committed by the Hessians. Two soldiers were taken that were out upon the business both of which fired upon the Inhabitants to prevent their coming to give intelligence. I think it would have a good effect to hang one of these fellows in the face of the troops without the form of a tryal. It is absolutely necessary to give a check to this licensious spirit which increases amazingly. The impudence of the Soldiers is intollerable: a party plundered a house yesterday in spight of a number of Officers; and even threat⟨ene⟩d the officers if they offerd to interpose.

					It is the opinion of most of the Officers that it is absolutely necessary for the good of the service that one of those fellows should be made an example of; and if your Excellency will give permision I will have one hung up this afternoon where the Army are to march by.
					There is also a deserter taken three quarters of the way over to New York belonging to the 7th Pennsylvania Regiment which the Officers not only of the Regiment but several others wish may be executed in the same way that I propose to execute the other in. Several deserters are gone off yesterday and last Evening.
					The light Infantry have fallen back to this place and I propose to march back to Camp at five oClock this Evening unless collecting the Stock upon Seacaucus should detain us longer.
					The Enemy have made no movement except in their Shipping: a few more transports have fallen down to the watering place and a few hauled off in the Road.
					I wish your Excellencys answer respecting the two culprits as we shall march at five this afternoon. I am with great respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt humble Ser.

						N. Greene M.G.

						N.B. More complaints have this moment come in, of a more shocking nature than those already related.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Robert Howe, 26 August 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir

							26 August 1780

					I went out this morning by Day light in order to make my Self acquainted with the Approaches of the Camp And situation of the Guards, and am but this moment Return’d. during this Tour I am inform’d that your Excellency did me the Honour of a Visit, I therefore immediatly Send to know if you have any Business or Commands that I may Attend without Delay Should that be the case, & which with Pleasure

I Shall be ready to do. my Emissarys (at least two of them) insist upon it that Sir Henry Clinton is on Long Island with a considerable Force, & that some weighty manœuvre is in object, that on the 21st Instant 1 fifty Gun ship 2 Frigates and three large Brigs Came from the Fleet at Gardners Bay near Rhode Island, & went towards New york, & that Vessels Were on the 23d Collected at New York, And it was said were to fall down to the Hook. That the Troops between New york & Kings Bridge Were Certainly five thousand, that General Kniphausen was to Join Sir Harry Clinton & General Tryon to Command on York Island, that Your Excellency’s movements had puzzled Sir Henry & that he appear’d to have suspended his Operations from the perplexity he was thrown into by them, & that continual Expresses were passing & Repassing between him & General Tryon to a very remarkable Degree; that Conjectures Were various As to the End they Aimed At, some said Defence alone would be their Aim & that Sir Harry had chosen Long Island as his Sphere from the persuasion that the French would Operate there & that the principal Attack would be in that Quarter, Others are Certain that Offensive measures were in View, and that Clinton was under possitive orders to Act Vigorously & to make You his Object, & that however Divided he and Tryon Were at present, a Sudden junction Would be formd When matters Were Ripe for Executio⟨n⟩ & that their motions would be Rapid, a third Set are possitive that General Tryon is to Keep you at Bay While Clinton Went Against west Point, imagining that if you could be kept off the Militia at that Post would be an Easy conquest, and that the Ships mention’d above to have been sent from Rhode Island, with those at York Were to be Stationd in the North River so as to prevent your Crossing at any Place below New Windsor. The Person himself thinks that Either our Allies at Rhode Island or your Excellency was their Object, and he inclines to the latter as officers of High Rank are Continually Saying that washington was America and that Every Risque should be Run to Subdue him, that now was the time, When his Army Consisted of a set of Raw Boys hardly able to Wield a Firelock, & that sir Henry had been so freely Exclaimed Against for not making you his Aim, all along, that the writer thought he Could not avoid doing it Even if his inclinations Were otherwise this Sir is the Substance, indeed almost the Words of What has been sent me I am Dear sir With the greatest Respect & Regard yr Excellency’s most obt Servt

						R. Howe

						P.S. I think Captain Lawrences Acct that a Body of Troops had Saild to the Eastward thro’ the sound must have been premature.


Title: To George Washington from Major Henry Lee, Jr., 26 August 1780
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						26th August [1780] Polly fly [N.J.]

					I have the pleasure to inform your Excelly that exclusive of sixty waggon load of forage sent in yesterday, we have I flatter myself two days fresh meat for the army.
					Col. Blains instructions pointed out the stock of sheep at Newark as proper to cull on this emergency. I accordingly detached a party to procure a part of them. The people assembled determined to rescue their property by arms. Capt. Carns who commanded my party, very prudently declined forcing the inclinations of the inhabitants, & by his address secured the authority of the Army, & Molified the people with a return of their sheep. They have engaged on your Excellys requisition to furnish two or three hund. head of cattle.
					I presume it would have been highly disagreeable to your Excy to have to have heard a different issue to this business, which would most certainly have happened had not Mr Carns acted with the greatest discretion. I have the honor to be sir your most ob. h. servt

						Henry Lee Junr


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Marsh, 26 August 1780
From: Marsh, Daniel
To: Washington, George

						Sir,
						Essex County [N.J.], Augt 26th 1780

					at the desire of a Number of the Magistrates, and well affected Inhabitants of this County, I beg leave to Inform your Excellency of the Conduct of Major Lees Corps here, not, so much by way of Complaint, against them, as to prevent, if possable, Such abuses in future, they have already taken by force most, of the Oats in this Quarter, and wasted them in such a manner, as if presisted in, will soon Consume the little that Remains. it is said that they often give their horses, a Bushl of Clean Oats a piece a Day, and when they git them in sheaf, they some times consume a great Deal more, Yesterday Capt. Barnes came down with a party into the Town of Newark, and at, the point of Bayonet, took the Inhabitants Cows out, of their Yards, and the whole flock of sheep, belonging to the Town, he said that he had Express Order from your Excellency, or at least that Majr Lee had, and he had them from the Major, to take all the Cattle and sheep in the Town, that ware fit to kill, The Magistrates interposed, and prevented their going through with their scheme, promiseing to Exert, themselves to procure in a legal way all the Resources of the County, they think it Rather hard, that Your Excellency should proceed, to such Extramities without first trying gentler methods, as they are and allways have been Ready to do their utmost for the support, and Comfort of the Army, This County has already furnished More then its Quota, but, Yet we are still willing to Yield every possable supply and I have the fullest, Asurences from the Magistrates, that if the people will not, sell, they will Empress provissions and forage, if Your Excellency will please to Make a Requisition, Not withstanding there is no money to pay for them, which is indeed a Great [d]ifficulty that we Labour Under. Your Excellencys Most, Obedt servant,

						Dan. marsh Contr. forthe County of Essex


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Reed, 26 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Joseph

						Head Quarters near the Liberty Polein Bergen County 26th Augt 1780
						Dear Sir

					I was last evening favd with yours of the 22d and the day before with that of the 21st. I should have concurred with your Excellency in the propriety of keeping the Militia embodied for the reasons and under the circumstances you mention, had I not last night received dispatches from Count Rochambeau, from which I think it more than probable that the 2d division will not arrive before the expiration of the tour of duty of the present Class—to keep them out, therefore, will only be an accumulation of expence, and a needless detention of many of them from their families and occupations—The Alliance Frigate is arrived at Boston from L’Orient, which place she must have left about the 10th July—The 2d division was then blocked up in Brest by the English Fleet—A superior French and Spanish Fleet had sailed from Cadiz with an intention of opening the port, should they succeed in the attempt, we may reasonably suppose that the 2d division would not sail before Augt which (with a good passage) will make it October before they arrive upon this Coast—I should hope that between the time of the arrival of the second division and that of serious operations, the requisite number of Militia may be drawn out, especially as it will be at a more favorable season for the people in general, who will by that time have put in their Winter Grain.
					I am extremely sorry that the dispositions of the people or our own circumstances should render the intervention of military force necessary—but such is our present situation and so discouraging are our prospects in the Article of meat that I very much fear we shall be obliged to make use of our whole Cavalry for the purposes of collecting the small remains of Cattle (in fact unfit for slaughter) from this exhausted Country. Colo. Moylans Regt is small and much worn down—Sheldons is covering the Country on the east side of the River, and Major Lees Corps is the only one upon which we can place dependance either for military operations to collect supplies in the adjacent Country—or to impress teams for the transportation of provision and Stores from the Delaware: for such is the deranged State of the Quarter Masters department, that little is to be expected from the means within his power. I speak more particularly of what is past, not having yet experienced the effects of the new appointment. From the above your Excellency will judge how inconvenient it will be to detach Major Lee or any Corps so far from the Army as you seem to require. From the favorable complexion of yours of the 21st I am in hopes, that altho’ there may be a backwardness in some particular sect[ion]s to part with their produce,

yet there may be upon the whole, a considerable collection made; but should you upon further trial find a military force absolutely necessary to strengthen the hands of your Commissioners, I will upon your requisition furnish you with what it may be in my power to spare—Some Brigades of the Army have been five days without Meat—to endeavour to relieve their distresses I have moved down to this place with a view of bringing off the Cattle and Forage from the lower parts of Bergen—Of the first, I scarcely find any but Milch Cows and Cattle, so young and bad that nothing but the extreme of want could induce the Soldiery to accept of them.
					That we may, if possible, form some small Magazines, I shall, for the present, discharge every useless mouth, or keep them so far from the main Body of the Army, that they may be fed without interfering much with the supplies intended for it. But we have such a variety of embarrassments in the way, that I almost despair of being able to affect my purpose. With great Regard and Esteem I have the honor to be Dear Sir Yr most obt and humble Servt.

						P.S. I mention the particulars of the Blockade of the French Fleet in confidence to your Excellency, as I know not whether it would be agreeable to the French Admiral and General to have it made public.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant General Rochambeau, 26 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

						Head Qrs in the vicinity of Fort Lee [N.J.]Augt the 26. 1780
						Sir

					I have received the honor of Your Excellency’s Letters of the 20th & 21st Instant, the last of which came to hand Yesterday Evening, and am much obliged for the matters of intelligence they contain, although some of them do not entirely correspond with our wishes.
					I am concerned for the situation of Capn Landais, as he has been esteemed an Officer of merit, and as his indisposition has deprived us of recent, and, more than probable, important advices. His not bringing more Arms &c. is rather unlucky, but their coming in the Ariel, should She arrive safe, which I flatter myself will be the case, will prevent any material inconvenience from the omission. The British fleet, I should

hope, would not be able to keep the second Division blocked up after the arrival of the combined one, which had sailed from Cadiz; and if the Enemy have not avoided an engagement, which I think is rather to be suspected, I hope our next advices will announce, that they have been most soundly beaten in a general combat.
					The intelligence respecting the Irish Militia’s driving the English out of the Forts, is pleasing and interesting, and must be embarrassing to the British Ministry. It must be the more so, from the internal ferments and insurrections which have taken place within England, and which are confirmed through a variety of Channels. But I am afraid these tumults will not do more than embarrass, and will not result in any thing decisively favourable to the common cause. It appears the Ministry were about taking vigorous measures to punish the Rioters.
					From the information brought by the Vessel arrived at Boston from St Domingo it appears, that the Count de Guichen was on the point of sailing from thence on the 2d Instant, and would in a few days complete all his arrangements and proceed to Jamaica. I hope these will all have been finished and that we shall soon have the pleasure to hear of the entire reduction of this very important Island. Your Excellency’s conjectures about an expedition to Martha’s vinyard &c.—are by no means improbable, as the Enemy have been there before, and collected large supplies of fresh provision. I fear even if the Inhabitants are apprised of it, that it will not prevent them from effecting their purposes.
					I am much obliged by the honor You did me in announcing your intention to celebrate the anniversary of St Louis; and I am persuaded the neighbouring States will be sensible of your politeness in the precaution You took to prevent any alarm, as well as feel a lively participation in a compliment paid to a Prince, towards whom they have so many motives of gratitude and veneration. The Enemy will probably not admire the Spectacle, as I dare say they will have no reason to felicitate themselves on the state of your batteries.
					I have been much concerned on account of a Report which has just reached me, though not officially, that an Express has been intercepted on the other side of the North River and carried into New York by a party of Tories who had come from thence, least it should have been the One charged with a Letter I had the honor of writing You on the 21st of this Month. I hope it has not been the case, but from the apprehension I am under ⟨on⟩ the occasion, I have thought it proper to inclose You a Copy. The place where the Express is said to have been intercepted is a considerable distance from the Enemy’s Out post at King’s bridge; but in future a still more inland route will be used. I have the Honor to be With great attachment & esteem Sir Your Most Obedt servant

						Go: Washington

						P.S. I have just heard from New York, that several Transports, which have been wooding & watering, are returning to England. It is added that they carry Some Invalids. possibly this may serve as a solution of the Reports we have had about an embarkation.


Title: To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 26 August 1780
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Middle Pattent [N.Y.] Augt 26th 1780

					Your Excellency’s favour of the 21st inst. has been duly recd & the directions therein contained, attended to.
					I was yesterday at the Gentleman’s house to whom a certain Letter was addressed to be forwarded to Major D——y, when the Author of it came in—He soon enquired whether that letter had been recd by him & forwarded, & was answered in the Affirmative. The Gentleman who I heretofore informed, dare not at Present have his name disclosed,

would not chuse to have the Author of the Letter know the Steps he had taken, as the Enemy have it in their Power to ruin him at any time—He is a Man of a suspected Character, & for this reason I dare not tell him that Your Excelleny fore knew his plan, & was guarded against any bad Consequences, least he might disclose the Secret—He wishes however that the fate of the letter might be concealed from its Author, or to be sure the way of its detection be kept Secret. I wish the Imprudency of the Man, may not lead him into Errors of a worse nature. I have the Honor to be with great Regard Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

						Benja. Tallmadge

						P.S. There has, for several Days past, been from 8 to 10 Vessels passing thro’ the Sound, mostly to the eastward; no Troops could be discovered on board—A Vessel of 8 Guns, with dispatches for England, was taken a few days ago in the Sound, by some of our Privateers.


Title: General Orders, 27 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Tean Neck [N.J.] Sunday August 27. 1780

							Parole, China.
							 Countersigns, Coos: Cuba.Watchword, Here we come

					[Officers] For the Day Tomorrow[:] Brigadier General Irvine[,] Lieutenant Colonels Gray[,] Murray[,] Brigade Major Woodbridge
					[Officer] For Guard[:] Major Leavensworth.
					Joseph King Esqr. is appointed Paymaster to the Corps of Artificers from the 6th of February last.

					The Brigade Quarter masters are to apply immediately at the Quarter master Generals Store for the number of Espontoons specified in the last Returns.
					A General Court martial to assemble tomorrow morning nine o Clock at the house on the right of General Stark’s brigade for the Trial of Colonel Hazen and such others as shall be brought before the Court.
					Colonel Wyllys is appointed President; Lieutenant Colonels Little-field Cobb and Newall—Majors Cogswell Wallbridge and Maxwell a Captain from each of the following brigades vizt First and second Pennsylvania Jersey Clinton’s 1st Connecticutt & Poor’s to attend as Members—All Witnesses and persons concerned are desired to attend the Court—A serjeant from each brigade in the left Wing to be sent as orderlies to the court.


Title: Circular to the States, 27 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters near the Liberty Polein Bergen County 27th Augt 1780.
						Sir

					The Honble The Committee of Cooperation having returned to Congress—I am under the disagreeable necessity of informing Your Excellency that the Army is again reduced to an extremity of distress for want of provision. The greater part of it had been without meat from the 21st to the 26th: To endeavour to obtain some relief, I moved down to this place with a view of stripping the lower parts of the County of its Cattle, which after a most rigorous exaction is found to afford between two and three days supply only, and those consisting of Milch Cows and Calves of one or two years old. When this scanty pittance is consumed, I know not what will be our next resource, as the Commissary can give me no certain information of more than 120 head of Cattle expected from Pennsylvania and about 150 from Massachusetts. I mean in time to supply our immediate wants.
					Military coercion is no longer of any avail, as nothing further can possibly be collected from the Country in which we are obliged to take a position, without depriving the inhabitants of the last morsel. This mode of subsisting, supposing the desired end could be answered by it, besides being in the highest degree distressing to individuals, is

attended with ruin to the Morals and discipline of the Army—during the few days which we have been obliged to send out small parties to procure provisions for themselves, the most enormous excesses have been committed.
					It has been no inconsiderable support of our cause, to have had it in our power to contrast the conduct of our Army with that of the enemy, and to convince the inhabitants that while their rights were wantonly violated by the British Troops, by ours they were respected. This distinction must unhappily now cease, and we must assume the odious character of the plunderers instead of the protectors of the people, the direct consequence of which must be to alienate their minds from the Army, and insensibly from the cause.
					We have not yet been absolutely without Flour, but we have this day but one days supply in Camp, and I am not certain that there is a single Barrel between this and Trenton. I shall be obliged therefore to draw down one or two hundred Barrels from a small Magazine which I had endeavoured to establish at West Point, for the security of the Garrison in case of a sudden investiture.
					From the above state of facts it may be foreseen that this Army cannot possibly remain much longer together; unless very vigorous and immediate measures are taken by the States to comply with the requisitions made upon them—The Commissary General has neither the means nor the power of procuring supplies. He is only to receive them from the several Agents. Without a speedy change of circumstances, this dilemma must be involved; either the Army must disband, or what is, if possible, worse, subsist upon the plunder of the people.
					I would fain flatter myself that a knowledge of our situation will produce the desired relief—not a relief of a few days as has generally heretofore been the case, but a supply equal to the establishment of Magazines for the Winter. If these are not formed before the Roads are broken up by the Weather, we shall certainly experience the same difficulties and distresses the ensuing Winter which we did the last. Altho’ the troops have, upon every occasion hitherto, borne their wants with unparralled patience, it will be dangerous to trust too often to a repetition of the causes of discontent. I have the honor to be with great Respect Your Excellency’s Most obt Servt

						Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Daniel Marsh, 27 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Marsh, Daniel

						Head Quarters near the Liberty Pole [N.J.]27th August 1780
						Sir

					I have just received your Letter of Yesterday, respecting the apprehensions of the Majestrates and well affected Inhabitants of Essex County.
					I cannot but flatter myself the Citizens of that County & of america in general will do me the justice to acknowledge that I have ever paid the most particular attention to the preservation of their property and civil rights. And altho the sufferings of the Army for want of Meat, have been extremely great, as some of the Brigades have been without for five days—I could heartily have wished that any measure should have been fallen upon to procure a supply rather than Military coertion. But under these circumstances I found myself compelled to make a forage to obtain immediate relief; this was to have been confined to Bergen & Barbadoes Necks. And it was by Mistake or Misapprehension that it was extended any farther—Some of the Commissaries, I am informed represented to Major Lee that there was a large Number of sheep in Newark, part of which might be obtained for the Army & that Capt. Carnes was sent for this purpose—I am happy that no disagreeable consequences have ensued from the Mistake.
					At the same time that I call to mind with very great satisfaction & gratitude the exertions of the Well affected Inhabitants of New Jersey when the Army was so much distressed for provisions the last

Winter—I cannot doubt their future efforts or avoid feeling a real pleasure at the assurances of the Majestrates to furnish by impress, if the Inhabitants will not sell, whatever provisions & forage can be spared. I am Sir Your Most Ob. Servt

						G. Washington