Title: From George Washington to Charles-François, vicomte Du Buysson des Aix, 10 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Du Buysson des Aix, Charles-François, vicomte

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters Prekaness 10th October 1780.

                  I have recd your several favors from Hillsborough, Annapolis
                     and Philada. I sincerely lament the loss of the Baron de Kalb. The manner
                     in which he died fully justified the opinion which I ever entertained of him,
                     and will endear his memory to this Country.
                  The State of Virginia, sensible of the dangerous influence which
                     Governor Hamilton holds over the Indians, have absolutely refused to exchange
                     him on any terms, for the present at least; and as I have never deviated from a
                     Rule which I laid down at the beginning of the War, of exchanging Officers in
                     course, according to the time of their captivity, I cannot, without manifest
                     injury to several Gentlemen of your Rank, who have been prisoners more than
                     three Years, propose your exchange in preference to theirs. I am glad to find
                     that you yourself seem aware of this difficulty, in your letter from
                     Philada.
                  Being bound by the terms of your parole to render yourself at
                     New York by a certain time, unless you effect an exchange, I do not see how you
                     can possibly avoid a compliance as soon as the state of your wounds will admit
                     of it—Sir Henry Clinton, may perhaps in consideration of your circumstances
                     extend your Parole to Europe, as a similar indulgence has been allowed to
                     several Officers of the British Army, on account of their health. This
                     application can only be made to him, whether personally, or by your informing
                     him by letter of your arrival at Philadelphia, and requesting liberty, on
                     acct of the peculiarity of your situation, to go to France. I am Sir
                     Yrmost obt Servt


Title: To George Washington from James Duane, 10 October 1780
From: Duane, James
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear General
                     Philadelphia 10th October 1780

                  Yesterday I had the Honour of your Excellency’s very friendly
                     Letter of the 4th Instant for which be pleased to accept my warmest Thanks.
                  Before this reaches your Hands you will have received the new
                     Arrangement of the Army. submitted, as it is, to your Opinion it is only to be
                     considered as an Essay open to such Alterations as you may suggest. The
                     Intention of a Majority of Congress was clear that it woud be too hazardous to
                     risk the Defence of America on the practicability of drawing an Army for the
                     War into the Field by the first of January: the Alternative therefore, as you
                     will find it guarded, was thought necessary tho’ All admitted a permanent Force
                     to be most desireable. I saw and explained the danger of an Alternative however cautiously expressed. The States
                     may think they do enough if they comply with either of the Injunctions; and
                     while Men who make Arms a profession, have a
                     prospect of being annually retained, for high premiums, they will hardly tie
                     themselves at once for the War.
                  In the original proposition there was another Alternative—for the
                     war, or for three years, besides that which gives
                     your Excellency so much and such just Apprehension: This last was rejected by a
                     Majority: perhaps unfortunately as in the opinion of many it strengthened the
                     Reasons for the annual Supply By drafts. I do not think it too late to correct
                     this Error if pointed out with the Force that every thing falls from your Pen.
                  The manner of Reduction is I am confident liable to great
                     Objection, and I have no doubt, but you will suggest a Rule or principle as Seniority or any thing you may think better, which
                     will avoid the difficulty you suggest and meet with Approbation: for I do not
                     conceive that a single member will be tenacious of the provision on this
                     Article. Indeed I am perswaded that your Excellency’s Representations on this
                     and every Subject will have as much Influence as you can wish, and that on this
                     particular Occasion nothing but a Clear Conviction of Impracticability will
                     induce Congress to overrule your Opinion.
                  A false Estimate of the power and Perseverance of our Enemies was
                     friendly to the present Revolution: and inspired that Confidence of Success, in
                     all Ranks of people, which was necessary to unite them in so arduous a Cause.
                     you cannot forget the Opinions which were Current on this Floor at the first
                     and second Congresses and how firmly they established this Error. We seem to
                     part with it with Reluctance; it still hangs heavy upon us; and has produced
                     the Indecision the Expediants and the Debility of which you complain. I hope
                     Misfortunes and distresses will at length rouse us to Just Sentiments and
                     vigorous Exertions; and with your Excellency I pray God That the fatal Delusion
                     which has marked our Conduct may end here.
                  When the Enemy turn their Eyes to the Southward they see too much
                     Imbecility not to be encourged to attempt to extend their Conquest and
                     improve Advantages which they have derived in no small Degree from our own
                     Temerity and Misconduct: I believe we shall not want Men to oppose them, Virginia having made Efforts the Expansiveness of
                     which is incredible, and North Carolina being equally disposed to
                     act vigorously tho’ not so capable to raise their Quota for
                     a fixed and certain period. I wish we may have it in our power to provide the
                     necessary Supplies: your Excellency too well knows and feels our difficulties
                     and Embarrasments, and that they are only to be surmounted by great Exertions.
                     I flatter myself that you do me no more than Justice in believing that Duty and
                     Inclination equally demand my Assiduous Endeavours to correct our past Errors
                     and draw forth our Resources.
                  I am much obliged to your Excellency for your Account of the
                     Interview at Hartford; and beg you to believe that no Man can be with greater
                     Affection and personal Estatchment, than I am—My Dear
                     General Your Most Obedient and very humble Servant

                     Jas Duane


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 10 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters Prekaness 10th October
                     1780

                  I recd yours of the 8th from Verplanks point. Inclosed is an
                     extract from the General Orders of this day. You will be pleased to have it
                     communicated as expeditiously as possible to the Corps at King’s Ferry and to
                     Colo. Sheldons Regiment that the Returns called for may, if
                        possible, be all here by Saturday next. I am with great
                     Regard Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 10 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

                     Sir
                     Hd Qrs near Passaick Falls Octr 10th
                        1780.

                  On sunday evening I had the honor to receive Your Excellency’s
                     Letters of the 23d & 26th of last Month. I am happy to find by the
                     former and the Letter You were so obliging as to forward from Colo. Wood that
                     the Convention Troops are now comfortably supplied. I hope this will be the
                     case and that the mode you have in contemplation to adopt will answer your
                     expectations. Colo. Wood’s conduct is highly pleasing to me and merits the
                     public esteem. It is such as I fully expected. He has not himself suggested the
                     most distant hint of his intentions to quit this post, or I should most strongly
                     urge his continuance. I shall however in a Letter to him of this date take
                     occasion to mention his good conduct, the services he has rendered—and those
                     that will be derived to the public from his continuing in the command.
                  It gives me pleasure to hear that the New Levies are
                     rendezvousing so generally. I fear they will be but too much wanted, from the
                     measures I think it highly probable the Enemy will pursue this fall & Winter,
                     especially during the latter, as they will not be under any apprehension of the
                     force we shall then have in this quarter, and will be at liberty to make almost
                     any detachments they please. The dissolution of half our Army last fall &
                     Winter enabled them to make the Detachments they did against Charles Town,
                     which has involved so many serious consequences, & the same cause will put
                     them in a condition to push their operations or at least to attempt it, in the
                     course of this, in the Southern States. While we persevere in the system of
                     short inlistments, we shall experience misfortune and disgrace, and ultimately,
                     if it is persisted in, we shall most probably lose the cause in which we are
                     engaged. The arrangement You intend of part of the Draughts for Colo. Harrison’s
                     Regiment is perfectly agreeable and I think proper. The matter did not occur to
                     me, and if it had I should not have thought myself at liberty to have directed
                     the appropriation, as I understood the Object of the Act, by which the Levies
                     were raised, was to apply them to filling or replacing the Regiements of Infantry. It
                     would be a most desirable thing, if we had Magazines of Arms, Ammunition,
                     Cloathing & Tents formed as Your Excellency mentions, but unhappily this is
                     not the case, nor have we a Store of these essential Articles at any Point. A
                     Letter I had the honor of addressing You on the 11th of Sepr will have informed
                     You of our situation in these respects. I am sorry to find that the Southern
                     Army suffers for Provision, and from the cause which contributes powerfully to
                     our Embarrassments here, the want of transportation. This is now become a
                     difficulty in our Affairs of the most serious consideration, and our situation
                     admitting of no alternative. I have been obliged to use coercive measures, such
                     as impresses, frequently in the course of the Campaign, to enable me to move
                     the Army & to bring it supplies. We are at this moment destitute of a drop of
                     Rum for the Soldiery, and cannot obtain some Blankets we have at the Eastward
                     for want of transportation. As to the provision supplies which You have
                     procured, it would be most eligible to keep them for Southern demands. This
                     seems to have been the intention of Congress by their Act of the 8th Ulto for
                     forming Magazines of provision & forage for 15000 Men for 6 Months for the
                     S. Army & directing Two thirds of the quota of the flour & Beef,
                     which had been required from Maryland, to be retained for that purpose. I took
                     the liberty in my Letter of the 11th of Septr to recommend to Your
                     Excellency the removal of such as was collected on Navigable Rivers, from the
                     reports which I had then received that the Enemy were about to embark troops
                     & as some supposed for Virginia. As to the French fleet I don’t think it
                     probable that it will Winter in the Chesapeak. The Enemy have a superior force
                     to it in these seas and have held it Blocked up ever since it arrived. This
                     circumstance, supposing other considerations out of the question, would prevent
                     the measure while it continues inferior.
                  I thank Your Excellency for the inclosures contained in Your
                     Letter of the 26th, which I have not received through any other Channel. Lord
                     Cornwallis’s Letter establishes beyond doubt that his loss in the affair of
                     the 16th of August was considerable, tho his report with respect to ours is
                     not admissible. He seems determined to try what severity will do. I hope sooner
                     or later he will be stopped in his career and that the rigorous policy he is
                     pursuing will contribute to this. It would appear from Genl Harringtons
                     Letter as if the Enemy had left Campden, but this seems highly improbable
                     unless they were advancing. The information of the Spaniards was premature as
                     to the captures they mentioned, or at least the latest advices I have seen from
                     the Havannah were silent about them. The Count de Guichen has not appeared in
                     this quarter yet tho he may have been on the Coast as they related. Your
                     Excellency’s Letter with respect to Lt Govr Hamilton and Major Hay
                     gives the satisfaction I wished. I only wanted information on the point, that I
                     might know how to conduct myself with propriety & agreeable to the views of
                     the State.
                  With respect to the reduction of Detroit, I have ever considered
                     it as an event much to be desired, but we have never been in circumstances to
                     attempt it. This will be less the case the ensuing Winter than at any period
                     almost before, nor do I conceive myself at liberty to say an expedition may be
                     undertaken against it in the manner You propose. As to powder our supply of
                     this Article is very deficient. I was not able with all we have and all I
                     could borrow from the different States to make up near a sufficiency for the
                     operations intended against New York, and must have depended much on our Allies
                     for it, if these had been prosecuted. If however Your Excellency should
                     determine to attempt the reduction of the post either at the expence of the
                     State, or at that of the United States with the consent of Congress, it is
                     possible the quantity You may have occasion for may be spared, if it is not too
                     great and the means of transportation can be procured.
                  Your Excellency will have heard probably before this reaches You,
                     of the perfidy of Major Genl Arnold. On the 25th of Sepr he went to the Enemy.
                     He had entered very deeply into a combination with them, as far as we can
                     judge, for putting them in possession of the important post of West point,
                     where he commanded & the command of which he had solicited. For this purpose
                     he had contrived an interview, with Major André Adjutant General to their Army,
                     on the night of the 21st and delivered to him, A Copy of a State of matters I had
                     laid before a Council of Genl Officers, the 6th of Septer. An Estimate of
                     the force at West point & its Dependencies—of Men to Man the Works at West
                     point—Remarks on those Works. A return of Ordnance at West point & its
                     Dependencies. Artillery orders for the disposition of the Corps in case of an
                     alarm at West point. A permit to Major André, under the assumed name of John
                     Anderson to pass our Guards. This Officer, with all these papers in Arnold’s
                     hand writing, was taken by a most extraordinary & providential intervention
                     of circumstances, under the assumed name of John Anderson & in a disguised
                     habit, about fifteen miles from the Enemy’s outpost at King’s bridge by a small
                     Militia patrole who acted with great virtue upon the occasion as he was
                     returning to New York; having been all the night of the 21st & next day in
                     the vicinity of our posts at Stony & Verplanks points, and passed by them the
                     night preceding his capture. Arnold got information of the event on the morning
                     of the 25th before it was known to any of the Officers under his Command or any
                     in authority and pushed down the River in a barge to the Vulture Sloop of War,
                     which lay a few miles below Stony point. Major André was tried by a Board of
                     General Officers, and, on his free & voluntary confession, & Letters, was
                     sentenced to suffer death, agreeable to the practice & usage of Nations in
                     like cases, which he has accordingly suffered. He acted with great candor
                     after he avowed himself untill he was executed. Your Excellency will probably
                     see the whole of the proceedings in his case published. We have no doubt now,
                     whatever may be the future Objects & measures of the Enemy, that the primary
                     & principal design of the embarkation they were making, was to take West
                     point, which through the preconcerted arrangements between them & Mr Arnold,
                     in all human probability, would have inevitably fallen into their hands &
                     most likely in the course of a few days after the discovery. The Enemy have not
                     laid aside from the accounts I continue to receive, their preparations for an
                     expedition—and must now mean to make a push in some other more remote quarter.
                     Hence Your Excellency will perceive that they leave nothing unessayed to carry
                     their point, but I trust there are more than abundant virtue, as well as means
                     in our hands, if these are properly directed, to withstand & baffle easily
                     all their most vigorous & artful efforts. I have the honor to be with very great respect & esteem Yr Excellency’s Most Obed. St.

                     G. W..


Title: From Robert Hanson Harrison to Edward William Kierse, 10 October 1780
From: Harrison, Robert Hanson
To: Kierse, Edward William

                     Sir,
                     Head qrs Oct. 10.
                     1780

                  It is His Excellency, the Commander in Chief’s wish that the
                     packet the Express brings, may reach His Excellency Count Rochambeau as soon as
                     possible. The way however thro Crompond it is feared is dangerous from the
                     incursions of the Enemy: You will therefore send the packet immediately to
                     Mr Campbell at the Village with this Letter, who is desired by the General
                     to forward it without a moment’s delay, by a Trusty Express by the way of
                     Fredericksburg—& Danbury—to Fairfield or Hartford—where he will fall in
                     with the Chain of Expresses, who are to proceed with the packet with the
                     greatest dispatch to Newport. I am Sir Yr Most obed. St

                     Rob. H. Harrison.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 10 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters Prackness Octr 10th
                     1780

                  I have duly received your Excellency’s favours of the 25th and
                     30th of Septembr and am much obliged to you for the different informations you
                     do me the honor to communicate. We have to regret that this Campaign has not
                     been productive of such important advantages as we had reason to flatter
                     ourselves, but we must hope for better successes the next. The operation of the
                     Spaniards in the Floridas will be an useful diversion to the Southern States,
                     if it can be vigorously prosecuted; but I confess while the Enemy have a Naval
                     superiority in America I am not sanguine about any enterprise which is
                     connected with Maritime dispositions.
                  I entirely approve of the detention of Greene’s Regiment, and I
                     entreat you to keep it as long as you think its services can be interesting.
                  Your Excellency will have heard of the execution of the British
                     Adjutant General. The circumstances he was taken in justified it; and policy
                     required a sacrifice; but as he was more unfortunate than criminal in the
                     affair, and as there was much in his character to interest, while we yeilded to
                     the necessity of rigor, we could not but lament it.
                  I have detached two Divisions of the Army to West Point, and
                     removed the remainder to this Post, at a greater distance from the Enemy. With
                     every sentiment of attachment, I have the honour to be, Your Excellency’s Most
                     Obedient Servant

                     Go: Washington

                        P.S. I take the liberty of asking
                           your Excellency’s passage of the
                        inclosed letter to Doctr Franklin

                     Go: W—n


Title: General Orders, 11 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Totowa Wednesday October 11th 1780
                     Parole Cape Ann
                     Countersigns L, E
                  Watchword, Order.For the day TomorrowBrigadier General WayneColonel GreatonLieutenant Colonel LittlefieldMajor WinslowBrigade Major OliverTwenty two waggoners to be draughted from the line to be sent to
                     the grand parade tomorrow at guard mounting.
                  As the soldiers have begun to build chimneys to their tents the
                     General desires that the commanding officers of regiments and companies will be
                     particularly attentive in seeing that the funnels are raised so much above the
                     ridge pole of the Tents to prevent damage from the fire or smoke which
                     heretofore has been very injurious to the Tents of the Army.
                  Major Parr’s corps of riflemen are permitted to try their rifles
                     between the hours of three and five P.M.
                  At the General Court Martial whereof Colonel Henry Jackson is
                     president the 25th ulto Captain Andrew Porter of the artillery was Tried for
                     "Falsely and Maliciously misrepresenting the conduct of Colonel Thomas Procter
                     as an officer in saying he dischaged soldiers of his regiment for his private
                     gain thereby defrauding the United States and from the same false and malicious
                     views did say that he had not more than thirty or forty men in his said
                     regiment on the Western expedition under General Sullivan and for conduct
                     unbecoming an officer and a Gentleman towards Colonel Procter in the above
                     mentioned instances."
                  The Court are of opinion that Captain Porter is Not Guilty of
                     either of the charges against him and do acquit him.
                  At the same Court was tried Captain Daniel Pendleton of the
                     regiment of Artificers for "Defrauding the United States in the following
                     instances: First for dating men back from the time of their inlistments.”
                  Second, for discharging two men, one of which was a deserter from
                     his company and the other had never joined; and taking money for said
                     discharges and returning others in their room that were inlisted by his
                     serjeant who were strangers to the matter—also for keeping such bounties
                     encouragement and wages from September 1777 to February 1778 for his own use.
                  Thirdly, for leaving at Croton as a pledge for his reckoning some
                     Spades, ordered by Major Forsyth to be carried from Kingsferry to White
                     plains."
                  The Court are of opinion that the facts contained in the first
                     charge, and first part of the second charge against Captain Pendleton are
                     supported; but from the Evidence in the case it appears that Captain
                     Pendleton’s conduct in some instances arose from a mistaken zeal to serve the
                     public, and in others from an erroneous judgement, they therefore acquit
                     Captain Pendleton of defrauding the United States in either Case tho’ they
                     think his conduct highly reprehensible; it appears to the court on the latter
                     part of the second charge that Captain Pendleton has not kept the bounties that
                     he has kept part of the wages drawn in the names of Barnes and Hooker for his
                     own use, but by their consent, but he is Not Guilty of defrauding the United
                     States in this instance.
                  The Court finds the third charge not supported and entirely
                     groundless.
                  Mr John Christie Forage master to General Clinton’s brigade was
                     likewise tried at the same court for "Giving Certificates for a number of
                     Horses more than he had, to the inhabitants of
                     Schralenberg."

                  The Court are of opinion that Mr Christie is Not Guilty of the
                     charge.
                  The Commander in Chief confirms the aforegoing opinions of the
                     Court—Captains Porter and Pendleton and Forage Master Christie are released
                     from Arrest.


Title: To George Washington from William Duer, 11 October 1780
From: Duer, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia October 11th 1780.

                  Since my Arrival in this City I have received a Peice of
                     Information which I esteem it my Duty to communicate to you. Mrs Lewis Junr
                     (Daughter of Mr Lewis late a Member in Congress from our State) who is returned
                     about three Weeks since from a Visit to her Sister in the City of New
                        York) informs me, "that it was currently assisted by a
                     Number of Persons of Character in that Town that Mr Thomas Smith Brother to
                     Joshua Smith was in New York, about the 14 or 15th September last; that she saw
                     Persons, who declared they had seen him; and that she has no doubt but that the
                     Fact was so. From Mrs Lewis’ Character, and her Connections in New York, who
                     are attached to the British, I think the Evidence she gives may be relied on. I
                     therefore submit to your Excellency the Propriety of immediately ordering Mr
                     Thomas Smith to be apprehended, and his Papers seized. Should you think fit to
                     decline giving these Orders, I have to request the favor of you to transmit to
                     Governor Clinton a Copy of this Letter that the State may take such measures, in
                     consequence, as they shall think for the public Benefit. I have the Honor to be
                     with great Respect, Your Excellency’s Obedt Hble servt

                     W. Duer


Title: To George Washington from John Gooch, 11 October 1780
From: Gooch, John
To: Washington, George

                     May it please your Excellency
                     Boston Octr 11 1780

                  to permit one who has had the honor of serveing under you in the
                     Field to intrude and for a Moment divert your attention from the more important
                     Concerns that are continually crowding on you to beg permission to lay before
                     your Excellency a Claim the Justice of which I most cheerfully submit to your
                     Detirmination, In January 1777 I was appointed as Paymaster to one of the Extra
                     Regiments to be commanded by Collo. Ezekl Cornell & Recived Inlisting
                     Orders & Instructions signed by him, and continued till the fourteenth
                     of July following when the Collo. sent me a Verbal message he had resign’d.
                     till then I was prevented entering into any other service, as belonging to that
                     Regement and never drew any pay or Rations during that time, in the Winter of
                     1778 I had the honor of applying to your Excellency on the subject and by your
                     Direction made applycation to Collo. Cornell for a Certificate but though he
                     acknowledged I did belong to the Regement yet the affair seem to him so
                     perplexing he declind giveing the Certificate thus may it please your
                     Excellency the affair is realy situated and I know of no way
                     to obtain what I think I have some reason to suppose is my Just due unless your
                     Excellency will condesend to put me in a Way. the sum though small is of
                     consequence to me being by the new arangment thrown out of all imploy but
                     though poor I have the consolation of Reflecting that I have to the best of my
                     Judgment done my Duty both in the Line & while on the Staff with the
                     additional pleasure of being able to settle my Public accounts and have a
                        Balance in my favor.
                  That Heaven may ever gaurd you from all Conspiracies and Dangers
                     of your Enemies will ever be the fervent wishes of him who is with the greatest
                     Devotion Your most obedt & most hble Servant

                     John Gooch


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 11 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                     Sir,
                     Head Qrs Passaic Falls 11th Oct: 1780.

                  Three days since, I received your Excellency’s Letter of the 4th
                     with the inclosed resolution, which, as the Army was in motion to this Post, I
                     had it not in my power to answer before.
                  I am much obliged to Congress for the honor they do me by the
                     fresh mark of their attention and confidence conferred upon me in the reference
                     they have been pleased to make. My wish to concur in sentiment with them, and a
                     conviction that there is no time to be lost in carrying the measures relative
                     to the Army into execution, make me reluctantly offer any objections to the
                     plan that has been adopted—but a sense of what I owe to Congress and a regard
                     to consistency will not permit me to suppress the difference of opinion, which
                     happens to exist upon the present occasion, on points that appear to me far
                     from unessential—In expressing it, I can only repeat the ideas which I have
                     more than once taken the liberty to urge.
                  That there are the most conclusive reasons for reducing the
                     number of Regiments no person acquainted with the situation of our affairs and
                     the state of the Army will deny. A want of officers independant of other
                     considerations were sufficient to compel us to it. But that the temper of the
                     Army produced by its sufferings requires great caution, in any reforms that are
                     attempted, is a position not less evident than the former. In services the best
                     established, where the hands of Government are strengthened, by the strongest
                     interests of the army to submission, the reducing of its regiments and
                     dismissing a great part of its Officers is always a measure of delicacy
                     & difficulty. In ours where the Officers are held by the feeblest ties
                     and are mouldering away by dayly resignations—it is peculiarly so—The last
                     reduction occasioned many to quit the Service besides those who were reformed,
                     and left durable seeds of discontent among those who remained—The general topic
                     of declamation was, that it was as hard as dishonorable for men, who had made
                     every sacrafice to the Service to be turned out of it at the pleasure of those
                     in power without any adequate compensation. In the maturity to which their
                     uneasinesses have now risen from a continuance in misery, they will be still
                     more impatient under an attempt of a similar nature—how far these dispositions
                     may be reasonable I pretend not to decide but in the extremity to which we are
                     arrived policy forbids us to add new irritations—Too many of the officers wish
                     to get rid of their Commissions; but they are unwilling to be forced into it.
                  It is not the intention of these remarks to discourage a reform;
                     but to shew the necessity of guarding against the ill effects by an ample
                     provision both for the officers who stay and for those who are reduced. This
                     should be the basis of the plan and without it I apprehend the most mischievous
                     consequences. this would obviate many scruples that will otherwise be found
                     prejudicial in the extreme. I am convinced Congress are not a little straitned
                     in the means of a present provision so ample as to give satisfaction; but this
                     proves the expediency of a future one; and brings me to that which I have so
                     frequently recommended as the most oeconomical, the most politic and the most
                     effectual that could be devised—a half pay for Life. Supported by a prospect of
                     a permanent dependence, the officers would be tied to the Service and would
                     submit to many momentary privations and to the inconveniencies which the
                     situation of public affairs makes unavoidable; this is exemplified in the
                     Pensylvania Officers; who being upon this establishment are so much interested
                     in the Service, that in the course of five months, there has been only one
                     resignation in that line.
                  If the objection drawn from the principle of this measure being
                     incompatible with the genious of our government is thought insurmountable—I
                     would propose a substitute less eligible in my opinion, but which may answer
                     the purpose; it is to make the present half pay for Seven years whole pay for
                     the same period to be advanced in two different payments, one half in a year
                     after the conclusion of peace the other half in two years subsequent to the
                     first. It will be well to have it clearly understood that the reduced officers
                     are to have the depreciation of their pay made good, lest any doubt should arise
                     on this head.
                  No objection occurs to me, to this measure, except it be thought
                     too great an expence; but in my judgement whatever can give consistency to our
                     military establishment will be ultimately favourable to oeconomy. It is not
                     easy to be conceived except by those who are witnesses to it what an additional
                     waste & consumption of every thing and consequently what an increase of
                     expence, results from the laxness of discipline in the army—and where the
                     officers think they are doing the public a favor by holding their commissions
                     & the men are continually fluctuating it is impossible to maintain
                     discipline. Nothing can be more obvious than that a sound military
                     establishment and the interests of oeconomy are the same. How much more the
                     purposes of the war will be promoted by it in other respects will not admit of
                     an argument.
                  In reasoning upon the measure of a future provision I have heard
                     Gentlemen object the want of it in some foreign Armies, without adverting to
                     the difference of circumstances. The Military state holds the first rank in
                     most of the Countries of Europe and is the road to honor &
                     emolument—the establishment is permanent, and whatever be an officer’s
                     provision it is for life—and he has a profession for life—He has future as well
                     as present motives of Military honor & preferment—He is attached to the
                     Service by the spirit of the Government—By education and in most cases by early
                     habit; his present condition if not splendid is comfortable,
                     Pensions—distinctions—and particular priviledges are commonly his rewards in
                     retirement. In the case of the American officers the Military character has
                     been suddenly taken up and is to end with the War.
                  The number of Regiments fixed upon by Congress is that which I
                     should have wished; but I think the agregate number of men too small. Should
                     the Regiments be compleated, making the usual deductions for casualties and not
                     counting upon the three Regiments of South Carolina & Georgia we should
                     not have in the Infantry above 18000 fighting men rank
                        & file; from wch when we should have taken the garrison of West
                     point and the different garrisons for the frontier, there would remain a force
                     not equal even to a vigorous defensive; Intirely unequal to a decisive
                     co-operation with our allies, should their efforts next campaign be directed
                     this way, as we have reason to hope—I confess too that I do not expect the
                     States will complete their Regiments at whatever point they may be placed; if
                     they are any thing near being full they will be apt to think the difference not
                     material, without considering that what may be small in their quota will be
                     very considerable in the aggregate of deficiencies, in a force originally
                     calculated too low for our exigencies.
                  The enemy’s whole embodied force of Infantry in these estates
                     (without speaking of the occasional aids of Militia) on a moderate estimate
                     must amount to between Eighteen and twenty thousand fighting men—we ought on no
                     scale of reasoning to have less than an equal number in the field (exclusive of
                     all garrisons) for a vigorous defensive—Let us then state
                   our armies in the field at R. & file18000West point for complt secury reqs 2500Fort Schuyler fort Pitt & other frontier Posts requires  1500  22000. By this calculation two and twenty thousand fighting men appear
                     to be necessary on a defensive plan, to have which our total number must be
                     thirty thousand rank & file. The Waggoners—Workmen at
                     factories—Waiters—Men for other extra Services—Sick &ca on an average
                     make at least a fourth of the total numbers; which Congress may see by
                     recurring to the returns of the Army from time to time.
                  Much less should we hesitate to exert ourselves to have this
                     number, if we have any thoughts of recovering what we have lost. As to the
                     abilities of the Country to maintain them, I am of opinion, they will be found
                     adequate; and that they will be less strained, than they have heretofore been
                     from the necessity we have been so frequently under of recurring to the aid of
                     Militia.
                  It is my duty also to inform Congress that in the late conference
                     with the French General & Admiral—though I could not give assurances, I
                     was obliged to give an opinion of the force we might have the next campaign;
                     and I stated the Army in this quarter at fifteen thousand operative Continental
                     Troops, wch will greatly exceed that which we should have by the proposed
                     arrangement for it would not give us above Eleven. On this idea of fifteen
                     thousand a memorial with a plan for next campaign has been transmitted to the
                     Court of France.
                  I would therefore beg leave to propose that each Regiment of
                     Infantry should consist of
                  One Colonel—where the present Colonels are continued, or
                  One Lieutt Colonal Commandant
                  Two Majors—a first & Second
                  Nine Captains
                  Twenty two Subalterns
                  1 Surgeon
                  1 Mate
                  1 Sergeant Major
                  1 Qr Mr Sergeant
                  45 Sergeants
                  1 Drum Major
                  1 Fife Major
                  10 Drums
                  10 Fifers
                  612 Rank and file
                  Fifty Regiments at 612 rank and file each will amount to 30,600
                     rank & file, the force I have stated to be requisite.
                  The number of Officers to a regiment by our present establishment
                     has been found insufficient. It is not only inconvenient and productive of
                     irregularity in our formation and Manoeuvres; but the number taken for the
                     different Offices of the Staff leaves the Regiments destitute of Field Officers
                     and the Companies so unprovided that they are obliged to be entrusted to the
                     care of Sergeants and Corporals which soon ruins them. To obviate this I ask
                     three field officers to a Regimt &, besides a Captain and two
                     Subalterns to do the duties of each Company, three Supernumerary Subalterns as
                     Paymaster—Adjutant & Quarter Master and one to reside in the State as a
                     recruiting officer—Officers continually employed in this way to improve every
                     oppertunity that offered would engage men; while those who were occasionally
                     detached for a short space of time would do nothing. I ask one Drum and fife
                     extraordinary to attend this Officer. The supernumeraries to rank &
                     rise in the Regiment with the other Oofficers. Three field Officers will be
                     thought necessary, when we consider the great proportion employed as Adjutant
                     General—Inspectors—Brigade Majrs—Waggon Master—Superintendents of Hospitals
                     &ca. In addition to which I would also propose a field Officer to
                     reside in each state where the number of its regiments exceed two & a
                     Captain where it does not to direct the Recruiting Service and transact all
                     business for the line to which he belongs with the State—which I think would be
                     a very useful institution.
                     Instead of Regiments of Cavalry, I would recommend Legionary Corps which should consist of four Troops of  Mounted Dragoons of 60 each240. Two of dismounted Do at Do120360with the same number of Comd. & Non Comd. officers as at present.To make the Regiments larger will be attended with an excessive
                     expence to purchase the horses in the first instance and to subsist them
                     afterwards—and I think the augmentation though it would be useful, not
                     essential. I prefer Legionary Corps because the kind of Service we have for
                     horse almost constantly requires the aid of Infantry; in quarters, as they are
                     commonly obliged to be remote from the Army for the benefit of forage it is
                     indispensable for their security; and to attach to them Infantry drawn from the
                     Regiments has many inconveniencies.
                  Besides the four Regiments I cannot forbear recommending that two
                     partizan Corps may be kept up Commanded by Colo. Armand and Major Lee. Tho’ in
                     general I dislike independant Corps, I think a Partizan Corps with an Army
                     useful in many respects—Its name and destination stimulate to enterprize; and
                     the two Officers I have mentioned have the best claims to public attention.
                     Colonel Armand is an Officer of great merit wch added to his being a
                     foreigner—to his rank in life—and to the sacrafices of property he has made
                     renders it a point of delicacy as well as justice to continue to him the
                     means of serving honorably. Major Lee has rendered such distinguished Services
                     and possesses so many Talents for commanding a Corps of this nature—he deserves
                     so much credit for the perfection in which he has kept his Corps—as well as for
                     the handsome exploits he has performed, that it would be a loss to the Service
                     and a discouragement to merit to reduce him. And I do not see how he can be
                     introduced into one of the Regiments in a manner satisfactory to himself and
                     which will enable him to be equally useful, without giving too much disgust to
                     the whole line of the Cavalry. The Partizan Corps may consist of
                    three Troops of Mounted Dragoons of fifty each  1503 ditto of dismt.  Do 50 ea. 150 300 I would only propose one alteration in the proposed arrangement
                     of the artillery, which is to have ten companies instead of Nine—The numerous
                     demands of the Service have made the establishment of Companies hitherto not
                     too great; and it would be injurious to diminish them materially. Nine
                     Companies would be an irregular formation for a battalion of Artillery. and
                     eight would be much too few: this makes me wish they may be fixed at Ten. The
                     formation of nine Companies in the Infantry is with a view to one light Company
                     to act seperately.
                  I sincerely wish Congress had been pleased to make no alternative
                     in the term of Service but had confined it to the War, by inlistment draft or
                     assessment as might be found necessary. On the footing upon which their
                     requisition now stands we shall be certain of getting very few men for the War;
                     and must continue to feel all the evils of temporary engagements. In the
                     present humour of the States, I should entertain the most flattering hopes that
                     they would enter upon vigorous measures to raise an army for the War, if
                     Congress appeared decided on the point; but if they hold up a different idea as
                     admissible, it will be again concluded, that they do not consider an Army for
                     the war as essential; & this will encourage the opposition of men of
                     narrow, interested & feeble tempers, and enable them to defeat the
                     primary object of the Resolution. Indeed if the mode by inlistment is the only
                     one made use of to procure the men, it must necessarily fail.
                  In my letter of the 20th of August I say "any period short of a
                     year is inadmissible"; but all my observations tend to prove the pernicious
                     operation of engaging men for any term short of the War, and the alternative is
                     only on the supposition that the other should on experiment be found
                     impracticable—But I regard it as the highest importance, that the experiment
                     should first be fairly tried—the alternative, if absolutely necessary, can be
                     substituted hereafter.
                  The encouragemt to the Officer & the bounty to the
                     Recruit are both too small in the present state of things unless the latter
                     could be in specie, which it is probable would have a powerful influence—In
                     case of Recruits made in Camp no bounty is specified; it will be necessary here
                     as well as in the Country, with this additional reason that a Recruit made in
                     the Army will be more valuable than one made in the Country.
                  I must confess also it would have given me infinite pleasure that
                     Congress had thought proper to take the reduction and incorporation of the
                     Regiments under their own direction. The mode of leaving it to the States is
                     contrary to my Sentiments, because it is an adherence to the State system, and
                     because I fear it will be productive of great confusion and discontent and it
                     is requisite the business in contemplation should be conducted with the
                     greatest circumspection. I fear also the professing
                     to select the Oofficers retained in Service will give
                     disgust—both to those who go & to those who remain; the former will be
                     sent away under the public stigma of inferior merit and the latter will feel no
                     pleasure in a present preference, when they reflect that at some future period
                     they may experience a similar fate—I barely mention this as I am perswaded
                     Congress did not advert to the operation of the expressions made use of, and
                     will readily alter them.
                  I beg leave to remark before I conclude, that if Congress should
                     be pleased to reconsider their resolutions—it will be of the greatest moment
                     that the number of men and term for wch they are to be raised should be first
                     determined and the requisitions transmitted to the several States. In this
                     article time presses; the others may be examined more at leizure, though it is
                     very necessary the whole should be put into execution as speedily as possible.
                     To accelerate the business I have directed, agreeable to the tenor of the
                     resolution returns to be immediately made which shall be without delay
                     transmitted to the States to shew them at one view the force they have
                     & the deficiencies for which they will have to provide, the moment they
                     know the quotas respectively required of them. With the highest respect
                     & esteem—I have the honr to be Yr Excellency’s Most Obt & Hble
                     Servt

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S. In the establishment I submit, I mention two Subalterns
                        to each Company; as we have few Ensigns, they must in general be both
                        Lieutenants but in future appointments, there ought to be one Lieutenant and
                        one Ensign as heretofore.
                     Congress will herewith receive a list of the Officers in New
                        Hampshire—Massachusetts—Connecticut—New York New Jersey—Pensylvania
                        & Maryland line (previous to its marching to the Southward)—also in
                        Crane’s & Lamb’s Artillery—Sheldons Horse—and in
                        Hazen’s—Sherburne’s—Spencers & Livingstons Regiments who have actually had their resignations entered at Head
                        Qrs in the course of this year, and who in
                        general urged their necessities when they applied on the subject—and
                        insisted, notwithstanding every perswasion to induce their continuance, that
                        their circumstances would not admit of their remaining in service longer.
                        Besides these resignations there are a great many of which I have no certain
                        account as the Officers being permitted to go home on furlough in the course
                        of the Winter, have never rejoined the Army, and have only sent messages or
                        written to their regimental Officers that their own distresses and those of
                        their families would not permit their return.as to the resignatons which may
                        have taken place in the Virginia line and the other Troops at the Southward
                        since they were acting in that quarter—I have no account of them; but I make
                        no doubt that many have happened. All these serve to shew the necessity of some more
                        competent establishment than the present one—and I hold it my duty to
                        mention, from the accts I daily receive, unless this is the case, that I
                        have strong reasons to believe we shall not be able to retain after the end
                        of the Campaign, as many Officers, especially in some lines, as will be even
                        sufficient for common duties when in Quarters. If matters fortunately should
                        not proceed to the lengths my fears forebode, yet Congress will be sensible
                        at the first view, of the injuries and great inconveniencies which must
                        attend such a continual change of Officers & consequent promotions
                        which are and will be inevitable.
                     After having exhibited this view of the present state of the
                        army it is almost needless to add, that excepting in the rank of Field
                        officers and a very few Captains we shall have new Officers to provide
                        rather than old ones to disband at the reduction of Regiments—and where they
                        are to be had I know not—no disposition having been discovered of late to
                        enter the Service—Congress have little to apprehend therefore on acct of the
                        expence of supernumerary Officers when this event takes place. I am
                        &ca

                            G. W——n


Title: From George Washington to Mary Digges Lee, 11 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Mary Digges

                     Madam,
                     Passaic Falls Oct. 11th 1780

                  I am honored with your letter of the 27th of September, and
                     cannot forbear taking the earliest moment to express the high sense I entertain
                     of the patriotic exertions of the Ladies of Maryland in favor of the Army.
                  In answer to your enquiry respecting the disposal of the
                     Gratuity, I must take the liberty to observe; that it appears to me, the Money
                     which has been, or may be collected, cannot be expended in so eligable and
                     beneficial a manner, as in the purchase of Shirts & Stocks (black) for
                     the use of the Troops in the Southern Army.
                  The polite offer you are pleased to make of your further
                     assistance in the execution of this liberal design, and the generous
                     disposition of the Ladies, insure me of its success, and cannot fail to entitle
                     both yourself and them, to the warmest gratitude of those who are the objects
                     of it. I have the honor to be Madam With the highest respect & Regard
                     Yr Most Obedt & H. Ser.

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 11 October 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                     Dear Sir,
                     Pasaic Falls 11th Oct. 1780

                  I am happy to inform you, that the business to which I am
                     indebted for your favor of the 28th Ulto, was effected previous to the receipt
                     of your letter. Mr Elliot had applied thro’ Mr Izard, for Captn Mure’s parole,
                     which was immediately granted, and orders given to the Commissary of Prisoners
                     to signify the same to him. I make no doubt therefore, but that he is, by this
                     time, either in New York or up on his way thither.
                  It will ever give me pleasure to contribute to the comfort or
                     convenience of any Gentleman in whose behalf you interest yourself, when I can
                     do it with propriety—on other terms I am convinced you wd not ask it. I am with
                     Complimts to Mrs Morris Dear Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 11 October 1780
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Bedford New Purchase Octo. 11th 1780

                  I have the honor to enclose a Letter from Cu. Junior, which as it
                     contains nothing very material, have not sent forward by Express.
                  The Conduct of Arnold, since his arrival at N.Y. has been such,
                     that although he knows not a single Link in the Chain of my Correspondence,
                     still those who have assisted us in that way, are at present too apprehensive
                     of Danger, to give their immediate usual intelligence—I hope as the Tumult
                     subsides, matters will go on in their old Channel.
                  Cu. Junr has requested an interview with me on Long Island on the
                     13th inst., but in the present situation of Affairs I believe it would be
                     rather imprudent. What makes it peculiarly so at this time is the swarm of
                     Refugie Boats which cruize along the Shore of L. Island—I have wrote Cu. Junr
                     assuring him that his name or Character are not even known by any Officer but
                     myself in the Army, tho’ should your Excellency wish to have me meet Cu. Junr I
                     will appoint an interview at any time. I have the Honor to be, with great
                     Regard, Sir, your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

                     Benja. Tallmadge

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                         October 8 1780

                        Your letter of the 24th of
                           Augt came to hand togather with the inclosed blank
                        the lines of which were easily discovered and some Sentences could read. The
                        paper being so bad I Judge is the reason. To prevent the like for the future
                        have forward you some good paper which Please make use of for that purpose
                        alone.
                     The Express returnd last night from
                           New York but without a blank from C. Jur. The present
                        commotion that hath risen on Account of that infamious Arnold togather with
                        little or no intelligence at this time was the reason that he did not write.
                        That have only to Say the Enemies embarcation goes on but Slow they dont
                        Seame to act with Spirit about it Culper Jur is to be with me on the
                           12 Instant if no unforeseen accident doth prevent—if
                        possible, and think propper, come and see him. it may be of mutual
                        advantage—there appeares nothing in the way but the dangers of the Seas, And
                        hope this invitation will come to hand timely for the purpose, Have Just
                        heard that Capt. Cornelius Concklin with a bouts Crew hath fell into the
                        hands of the refugees near Treadells Banks with the Loss of Lieut. Ketcham
                        Killd dead. their misfortune is owing to Abijah Tooker of
                        Seutauket have nothing further to ad and am yours Sincerly

                        Saml Culper

                  Words in square brackets are translations of code.


Title: To George Washington from Anthony Wayne, 11 October 1780
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

                     Dear sir
                     Totawa 11th Octr 1780 5 O Clock P.M.

                  Will you have the goodness to excuse my not waiting on you to
                     announce the Arrival of the first Pennsa Brigade—& permit me to Inform
                     you of that of the Second under the Conduct of Genl Irvine, who now pitching Rein tents, we have also recd a
                     few recruits for the war, which I shall distribute in proportion to the
                     Strength of the Regiments.
                  As Genl Officer of the day I will have the honor of waiting on
                     you tomorrow. Interim I am your Excellencys Most Obt Hume
                     Sert

                     Anty Wayne