Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 2 July 1781
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Office of Finance July 2d 1781

                  I am honoured with yours of the 28th ulto and am happy to have contributed to your relief in any shape, be assured that it shall be my study to guard you as much as possible against, the distress and perplexity that arise from want of Provisions &c. and if the several Legislatures will only do their part with vigour I shall have the strongest hopes of putting a much better face on our monied affairs in a short time, but without their aid, the wheels will go heavily round, I shall therefore ply them closely.  In order to bring about changes gradually I have advertized for Contracts to supply Rations to the Troops artificers & Prisoners that are now in this City or which may happen to be here from time to time between this and the 1st Jany next.  another contract is also advertized for Lancaster; as the proposals are required to be delivered in to my office this week, and the next I expect to gain some insight from them and the treatys that will ensue, and will then go on advertizing for every Post that the Board of War & your Excellency may think necessary to continue.  I believe it may, not answer so well, to Contract for Rations to be delivered at the Main Army, as to make one Contract for bread, another for fresh Beef, another for Salted Meat, another for Rum, Vinegar & Salt &c. because by dividing these Contracts I can oblige each Contractor to allow convenience in time of payment for certain part of the supplies, and it is most consistent with demonstrated Ideas to divide things of this kind amongst a number of Freemen rather than permit any one to grasp all the advantages that may arise from the Contract and there is no danger of prices rising so as to create Artificial Scarcity under the management of several Contractors, because they will all be actuated by one principle that operates effectually against that kind of Competition which raises prices whereas a number of purchasers who have no other rule for their Government, than a desire to obtain what they want, never fail to raise prices by the measure they pursue, even tho they mean to serve the Public ever so well.
                  The letter you mention to have been written by Genl Schuyler respecting a greater plenty of flour than he expected, has not come to my hands, but I am not under any apprehensions on the score of Provisions well knowing that we are blessed with abundance, for this I pledged myself when I got the Embargo taken off last Spring, and was then told I must Answer for it, if the flour was all sent away and your Army Suffered by it, the Consequence has been just what I then foretold, All over Ships have been and Continue to be constantly employed in carrying flour to the French & Spanish Islands, our Post is filled in return with West India produce, some European Goods and many Spanish Dollars, and flour remains so plenty that there has not been a day in which I could not buy 5000 to 10,000 bbls in this City and the price has fallen from 28/ & 30/. which was asked and given at first, to 17/ which is now asked, but I think 15. or two hard Dollrs will buy 102 lb. very soon.  I wou’d not take up your time with this detail, only for the sake of this one observation which I think shou’d be impressed on the minds of all persons in power and which I believe exactly Coincides with your Sentiments, It is that Commerce shou’d be perfectly free, and property Soundly secure to the Owner, the only exception that shou’d be admitted, are Legal restraints on the first, founded on such evident public Utility as convinces the Community at large of their propriety, and such restraints should Continue no longer than that propriety is evident and on the last, the only exception should be as to that part of property which is taken from all with an equal hand by Taxation. for whenever the hand of power is Stretched out for the partial Seizure of property upon the Plea of Necessity, a good Government ought upon principles of Justice & Policy to make ample satisfaction to the Individual.  whenever these measures have their proper force in our Governments, these United States will abound with the greatest plenty of their own produce of perhaps any Nations in the world, the People are by Nature & habit industrious; feeling themselves secure in the possession of their property they will labour incessantly, that labour lays the foundation for Commerce unrestrained liberty in this, will find Vent for our own Superfluities and bring us in return whatever we stand in need of from other Countries, universal plenty will succeed, that plenty ,will produce and Maintain Numbers of Men and from those Numbers we shall always be able to collect an army equal to the defence of the Country, but I beg your pardon my Dear Sir I have been inadvertantly led into this discussion, when my intention was only to mention that you cannot want provisions so long as I can find Money to pay for them and this shall be my care & study as well as to husband it well in the Expenditure which is most essentially necessary I am much more anxious about cloathing than provisions and wish you Could tell me that the Ship Marquis de la Fayette was arrived.  I shall endeavour to wait on you when certain points are attained here and in the interim I remain Your Excellencys most Obedt hble Servant

                     Robt Morris


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 2 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters Peekskill 2d July 1781

                  I have this morning received your Excellencys Favor of last Evening.
                  I think it may be very well for your Excellency to proceed Tomorrow to North Castle—where you will continue untill you assemble your whole Force, unless you should hear further from me within that Time.
                  Being at North Castle will put you in a direct Rout to receive your Provisions from Crompond—& will be a Direct Road for your Troops to advance to White Plains, or any other Point below, as Circumstances shall appear to Demand.
                  Colo. Hull, an active & very intelligent officer, will have the Honor to deliver this to your Excellency—he is charged with my Instructions to the Duke de Lauzun; & being perfectly acquainted with our intended movements with the Scene of Operations, will remain with the Duke, & give him every Aid in his Power—this same Gentleman will be able to reply to any Queries your Excellency shall be plased to put to him.  With perfect Esteem & Regard I have the Honor to be sir Your Excellencys Most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 2 July 1781
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Philadelphia 2d July 1781

                  Though I have nothing Important to write your Excellency at This moment I take the Liberty by his Excellencey the Chevalier de La Luzerne to assure you of my Earnest wishes for your Success against New york & That Every Effort of mine Shall be Employed while I remain in Congress to Second your attempt to fulfil (or Even if possible to anticipate) your wishes: my time in Congress will Soon Expire and my Domestic Concerns forbid my Suffering myself to be rechosen, of Course the Service I may render to your operations must be within a few weeks in which time I Shall be happy to Employ myself in that useful manner—I Suppose that the Resolutions respecting the augmentations of the powers of a Court Martial have reached you The Report of the Committee impowered the Court to Inflict five hundred Lashes But this was Rejected upon the principles Laid Down in the Levitical Law Strongly urged by Roger Shearman Esqr. &ca & though a great majorty of Congress were for it the Question was Lost for want of the assent of Seven States: This relation will Convince you of the Incompetence of Some Members in the American Senate as well as of the absurdity of Some parts of the Confederation.
                  I have had the Honor of Seeing Mrs Washington yesterday & to Day; She was fatigued well her Journey & was Indisposed when She arrived, but Seems perfectly recovered—our news from the Southward Continue to be agreable & Seem to be as well authenticated as possible without official Information.  I have the honor to be with the most perfect Esteem Dear Genl your Excellencys most obedient Servant

                     Jno. Sullivan


Title: General Orders, 3 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Valentines Hill Tuesday 3d July 1781
                     Parole Lauzun
                     Countersigns D’Arrot
                  Dillon
                  For the Day Tomorrow
                  Major General Lord StirlingLieutenant Colonel GrayMajor GibbsInspector   _1st Connecticut BrigadeThe Continental Troops will this Evening lay upon their Arms upon Valentine’s hill in their usual order of Encampment.
                  All detachments are immediately to join their respective Corps and the officers to take their command in the line—Colonel Scammel’s detachment excepted.
                  The Duke de Lauzun and Brigadier General Waterbury will be pleased to place Picquets upon the roads leading from East Chester to Kingsbridge.
                  The Officers of the day will take care that proper Guards are posted upon the roads leading from our front and right flank to King’s bridge being particularly attentive to the North river and roads leading from it.
                  The Commander in Chief takes the earliest opportunity of expressing his thanks to the Duke de Lauzun, His Officers and Men for the very Extraordinary Zeal manifested by them in the rapid performance of their march to join the American Army—And the General also takes occasion to thank the Officers and Men of the American Army for the Alacrity with which they have supported themselves under the fatiguing March of yesterday and last Night—The Troops who were engaged to day merit his particular Thanks.
                  The Army will march tomorrow morning at three ô clock—the General will beat at two—the Assemble at half after two—and it is hoped the March will commence punctually at three in order to avoid the heat of the day—the Route and order of March will be furnished by the Quarter Master General.
                  Colonel Scammell’s detachment will follow the American Column and serve as a Rear Guard to it.
                  The Camp Guards with the Addition of a Captain from each division will form the Advanced Guard to be commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Gray and form three hundred yards in the rear of the second line on the road by which the Army marches on the beating of the General.


Title: To George Washington from Ezekiel Cornell, 3 July 1781
From: Cornell, Ezekiel
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     War Office July 3d 1781

                  The Board have been honoured with your Excellency’s letter of the 28 Ultimo and particular Attention will be paid to the Contents.  The Commissary General of Military Stores is in a way to be furnished with some Money the necessary purchases and Preparations are making in that department.  At the same time we wish you to inform us from time to time of the Measures you wish us to take and you may rest assured of our utmost Exertions to forward your Views We have the Honor to inclose a Resolution of Congress for furnishing your Table And can assure you it is the Intention of the Board to carry the Resolution into Execution with effect and dispatch.  We have the Honour to be with the highest Respect Your Excellencys most obed. servt

                     By order Ezek. Cornell


Title: To George Washington from Udny Hay, 3 July 1781
From: Hay, Udny
To: Washington, George

                     Sir.
                     Poughkeepsie 3d July 1781

                  I have the Honour to enclose for your Excellency’s perusal No. 1 my General Return of Provisions up to 1st of May, for which regular Vouchers have been obtain’d, and are either in the Possession of me, or one of my Assistants.  No. 2 a Return of Provisions, which I have every Reason to suppose delivered, but of which I have not yet regular Returns—No. 3 a Return of short Forage, for which regular Vouchers have been obtaind.  No. 4 a Return of Hay in the same situation—and No. 5—a Return of Short Forage, which I have every reason to suppose delivered, but for which I have not yet regular Vouchers, including some Pasture, for which I have actually paid as a State Officer.
                  On stating an Account Current crediting the United States with the Value of the whole Quotas demanded from this State, at the prices fix’d by Congress, and changing them at the same rate, with the Value of all the Articles furnished under my direction it appears that the Quarter Master’s Department is indebted to this State £5947.7s.6d, but we remain very considerably indebted to the Commissary’s Department, a great part of which I am in Hopes to pay betwixt this and Fall, as the Legislature at their last Session has used every exertion the distressed Situation of the State wou’d permit, for raising the Supplies agreeable to the Demands made upon them.  I have the Honour to be with every Sentiment of Respect. Your Excellency’s most Obedient & very Humble Servt

                     Udny Hay


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 3 July 1781
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Philadelphia July 3. 1781

                  I have been honored with your Excellency’s Dispatches of the 16th, 21st, 24th, & 28th Ulto.
                  Have herewith enclosed a Resolve of Congress of the 2d Instant passed in Consequence of your Letter of the 24th Ulto, and hope that your Request for a Corps of Rifle Men will be fully complied with by this State.  I have the Honor to be with the highest Respect Sir Your most obedient & most humble Servant

                     Sam. Huntington President


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 3 July 1781
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     War office July 3d 1781

                  We have the Honour to transmitt a Copy of a Memorial relative to the Promotions in the Pennsilvania Regiment of Artillery & previous to our making a Report to Congress we beg the Favour of your Excellency’s Opinion thereupon.  We have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem your very obed. Servants

                     Richard Peters
                     By order

                Enclosure

                        Philadelphia June 29th 1781

                     The Honorable the Congress of the United States
                     The Memorial of the Captains and Subalterns, Officers of the Pennsylvania Regiment of Artillery—most respectfully sheweth
                     That in consequence of an Arrangement of the Artillery by General Knox, and a Letter from his Excellency General Washington, the Board of War has made out Commissions for two officers from other Artillery Regiments to fill up the vacancies late occasioned in ours by the Resignation of Colo. Thomas Proctor.
                     We complain the greatest Injustice is done us in the above Instance, which must appear by the following Resolves—vizt
                     "In Congress Sepr 16: 1776—Resolved; that the Appointment of all Officers & the filling up Vacancies (except General Officers) be left to the Government of the Several States.
                     Novr 24th 1778—Whereas it will be for the Benefit of the Service that some Rule of Promotion be established—therefor Resolved
                     That in all future Promotions, officers rise Regimentally to the Rank of Captains, and thence in the Line of the State to the Rank of Colonel.
                     October 3d 1780  Resolved, that the several States furnish the following Quotas—vizt Pennsylvania Six Regiments of Infantry, one of Artillery.
                     May 25th 1781—Resolved that Promotions in the Cavalry and Artillery be Regimental to the Rank of Commanding Officer inclusive.
                     Also the Confederation of the United States, Article 7th  "When Land Forces are raised by any State for the Common Defence, all Officers of, or under the Rank of, Colonel shall be appointed by the Legislature of each State respectively by whom such Forces shall be raised or in such Manner as such State shall direct, and all Vacancies shall be filled up by the State which first make the appointment.
                     Article 9th  Each State shall appoint the Regimental Officers.
                     Article 13th  And the Articles of this Confederation shall be inviolably observed."
                     We therefore pray Congress to prevent the unjust Preferment of those Officers to the Vacancies in our Regiment and that the Promotions take place agreeable to the above Rules established by your Honble House.  Signed at the request and in the Behalf of the Officers

                        Andrew Porter Capt.
                        Penna. Regt Artillery

                        Copy


Title: To George Washington from Philip John Schuyler, 3 July 1781
From: Schuyler, Philip John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Albany July 3d 1781

                  Yesterday I was honored with your Excellencys favor of the 30th ulto, covering a letter for General Stark, which I shall deliver him assoon as he arrives, and offer him every aid in my power to contribute.
                  I did myself the honor to adress you on the 1st Instant in a letter which will go by this conveyance, and to which I beg leave to refer you for information relative to the batteaux to be constructed here.
                  When Your Excellency shall have received advice from Congress on the subject of the means to enable me to fulfil my engagements to the people I have employed for the public, I shall be much obliged by a communication of their determination.  I am Dear Sir with the most affectionate Esteem & regard Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

                     Ph: Schuyler


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

                     Head Quarters Near Dobb’s ferry Wednesday July 4th 1781
                     Parole Independence
                     Countersigns America.
                  Glorious.
                  For the day Tomorrow
                  Major General LincolnLieutenant Colonel FernaldMajor KnappInspector—2d Connecticut brigadeThe Commander in Chief wishes the Army to be persuaded that he is extremely pleased with the regularity and order with which the late movement was performed—He does not recollect to have seen a march where discipline was more strictly observed it afforded him the highest satisfaction never to have seen a straggler from the line of March, and he doubts not they would have exhibited the strongest proofs of patriotism and Bravery had not the Enemy withdrawn themselves at their Approach.
                  The General positively orders that any Cattle or horses that may have been brought off from near the Enemy’s lines by volunteers or any other persons (except properly taken in action) shall be restored to the owners of whatever political character they are—if the owners names are not known the Cattle to be delivered to the Commissary and the Horses to the Quarter master—to be accounted for—It is Irksome to mention and even painful for the General to Reflect how disgraceful and derogatory it would be to the reputation of an Army who are the Assertors of Freedom as well of the Rights of Humanity and of individuals should they ever be guilty of plundering in the minutest article.
                  The Quarter Master General will take particular care that no houses on the other side of the wood and stream of water on the left of the encampment are taken up for the officers of the American Army: all on that side are to be appropriated to the officers of the French Army.


Title: To George Washington from William De Hart, 4 July 1781
From: De Hart, William
To: Washington, George

                     Sr
                     Jersey Huts. July 4th 81

                  Herewith I Transmit to your Excellency the Proceedings of a Court Martial of which I was President.
                  John Cully Tried & Convicted ofDesertion—his Confession’s is Also Enclos’d the first was made to Col. Dayton the Second to Me.  I Inform’d him at the time of his Confession I had nothing to Promise him but that Should Any thing Appear in it that merited your Excellencys Attention I should Transmit it to you for your Consideration how far in that Case he was An Object of Mercy.  Col. Dayton will also write to you on that subject.  he Knows his merits & Demerits better than me.
                  Corporal Wm Jibbs also Condem’d for Marauding. his Crime is Agravated by his being on Duty.  A man of Bad Character the Offence he Comitted was in Company with a soldier & an Inhabitant in Arms in the Night, the Plunder not less in Value than £20. or £30.  I wish the minutes of the Court martial on that Head had been fuller.
                  the Court wished me to Inform you that Agreeable to the recommendation for mercy they Desire Davis may be Pardon’d he will be a useful soldier tho I Cannot think it of Jibbs.
                  Mr Adam’s Comisary of Prisoners Comes Next.
                  Mr Halsted, & Frazer the Evidence Refer’d to, were Properly Notic’d the Court Adjour’d One Day for their Attendance in the Afternoon they Call’d at my Quarters I Inform’d Halsted of the Opportunity the Court had given him of Prosecuting or giving Testimony in the Case of Mr Adam’s he Inform’d me that the Charges did not Come within his Knowledge and were not Agreeable to his wishes.  I Advised him to Attend the next Day—he Declin’d it the Court Afterwards Proceeded to give Judgement.  such as it is I Transmit to Your Excellency.  I Am Sr Your Most Hum. Servt

                     Wm D.Hart

                Enclosure

                           c.4 July 1781

                     The Examination of John Cully on oath.
                     Sayeth that he the sd Cully & others were brought from Staten Island in the gun boat & the first person he met was Isaac Fitsworth’s sister—that he told her he came from Staten Island—& she secreted him with Caleb Swezy & Peter Miller one day—that Randolph came to the house where they were secreted & took them to his own house where they were secreted three days & nights—from thence they proceeded to Caleb Swezy’s own house when Mrs Swezy told them that they could not come in for the people were in search of them from thence they proceeded to his father’s barn where they stayed one day and Swezy’s brother Benjamin brought them provision—the next night they proceeded to Fox Hill and lay in the woods three days & three nights & the sd Benjamin Swezy brought them provisions—they then proceeded to Scooley’s mountain & staid at a house two days the man’s name not known, they came from there to fox hill again where the said Benjn Swezy met them & gave them provisions & brought one Anthony Sharp with him—they went from thence to Lomenton where they lay in the woods & see no body—they stayed there untill they had single’d out the horses & the night they were to return they took five Horses one of which they let go—after takeing the horses they went to — Randolph’s & that Randolph knew they had stolen horses,  Randolph, and the above Randolph is half Brother to Issaac Fitsworth, they then proceeded to Cornelius Bises, who directed them the way to Amboy, knowing they were from Staten Island from thence they proceeded to Sandy point where the gun boat was to meet them, but not coming as they expected they each one made the best of his way, & I was taken up on the road by an inhabitant, the Deponent further Saith, that in April myself Isaac Fitsworth, Samuel Grover, Thomas Credack & Willm Griffin landed above blazing Star—from thence they proceeded to Qiblle Town & parted— Isaac Fitsworth, Samuel Grover, & Thomas Credack went one way & myself & Griffin went to the widow Robins’s who left the house on our arrival—but her son Lewis secreted us that day & night & the next day when John Meseaseson came to the house & took Griffin home with him & return’d after Supper—the second night Isaac Fitsworth sent Cornelius Bice to tell me where we should meet & sd Bice did conduct us to the place where we did all meet.  after meeting we proceeded to Gersham Fraze’s where we received refreshment from thence to John Decamp’s where we took four horses & from thence to Nehemiah Hand’s where we took four horses more—we then proceeded to John Marsh’s the 3d and offered him a half Joe to pilot us on the road but he refused saying he was not well—from thence we proceeded to Trembly’s Point where the gun boat met us and conducted us with our horses to the other side—And further sayeth That at another time David Oliver came over from Jersey and informed us that the same night there was to be a spinning frolick at the house of James Decamp & that Coll Jaques with others were to be there—that sd David Oliver came over with the party from the Island & proceed up to Decamp’s orchyard & sat under the fence in order to consult, for attacking the house, after we had concluded not to attack the house we went back, and Oliver went to Charles Teachers barn, and brought off a horse and over took us as we proceeded on the road toward Trembly’s point, where one richd Jones fell in with us, who Inform’d us that he knew of three men who lay conceald and wanted to get to Staten Island, we then halted in the field untill David Oliver brought the men to us, the party then proceeded to Tremply’s point except myself, Wm Griffin and reuben Randolph, who were conceald by richd Jones in David Shotwells chamber that night and all the next day, and the next night proceeded on the road to Carlile Browns, where we fell in with Danl Moore who knew and shook hands with at said Browns we took three horses and then proceeded to new Blazing Star where we met the gun boat which conveyed us to Island, and further saith that he saw Isaac Fitsworth Richd Laurance Wm Griffin Robt Woodworth & reuben Randall when they brought over to Staten Island seven horses, six of which they took from Moses Taquist and one from Lambert D. Camp, and cannot say more of their proceedings as I was not over with them at that time.

                     £100 each.
                     Anthony Sharp
                     John Sharp
                     Jacob Scuyler
                     Wilm Welch
                     Frederick Terryberry

                     £100 each.
                     Philip Ternberger
                     John Sharp
                     Jacob Schuyler
                     Wilm Welch
                     Frederick Terryberry

                     Genl Washington
                     No.1.
                     Janary or the first of Febry in the yare of 1780 Abel Heatfeald Came Over from Elebeth Town And Convaid Cornil Boscerk Over to the Said Town And Maid them all Priners Which he maid his ascape Mr Tunuson the Saim time We Lay Conseald at Randels the Said Tunuson Recorted the Said hous and Derected us the Rode he Noing Where We Came from the Said Tunuson Kept the biger Hors that We Tok On Our Retun from Black River We Colde At the House by Sweasy torg Whare the yong man Came out and Gave me a Gun For Sweasy he Ast Me If Sweasy Was thare I told Him he Was Which he Cam and had Long Dis Corse With the Said Sweasy his Naim I Cant Recalate the Said Sweasy Told me he had Ben Conseald thare Befor.
                     Cullys Own ConfessionI think the Prisoner Reffd to was Major Eccleston & his Party.

                        W.D.H.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 4 July 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Roxbury July 4th 1781

                  I have now the honor to enclose your Excellency, coppy of the proceedings of the Convention, who met at Providence the 26th ulto—The mode adopted for forwarding the Supplies of Fresh Beef during the Campaign, I hope is reduced to a System which will be effectual in its operation, and such as will meet your approbation, The States are takeing measures to ensure a seasonable purchase of the Beef, It appearing to the Convention that the quantity of Fresh Beef required of the State of New Hampshire, was greater than there was a probability of their furnishing, a transfer of a part of the quantity to Massachusetts was made by mutual consent, The State of Rhode Island had previous to the meeting of the Convention, ordered 30,000 wt of fresh Beef to be forwarded for the month of July, which added to the quantity affixed to that State on the inclosed, will make their Quota 60,000 wt and the whole 600,000 for the month of July.  I have been labouring to obtain the necessary supply of Rum, This is not yet so fully ensured as I wish, but is to Day, in a more promising way than heretofore, the delay has been occasioned by the fluctuating State of the Currency, which has been a bar to the obtaining the Rum either by purchase or on loan in this State, a Resolution of the General Assembly which passed the Day before yesterday, will I believe, remove the difficulty, and put it in the power of the agent to procure a considerable quantity immediately, about Twenty Hhds of very good Grenada Rum of high proof, is now going on, it will go to Clavarack, as this Rum is of a better quality than what has, or will probably go on, I beg leave to submit to your Excellency the directing the Commissary General to make a distribution of it to the different parts of the army, otherwise as it will go to Clavarack, and the northern Troops by a Letter I have lately received from Mr Commissary Gamble, are in great want of Rum, the greater part of the above mentioned without some particular direction, will probably be turned to Albany.
                  The State agent informed me the last Evening, that the State have about Fifty Pipes of Teneriffe wine of a good quality, it was to have been sold at vendue, it appears it will fetch but a trifle more than american Rum, The agent is of opinion that this wine will not only be agreable, but beneficial to the army, especially to the officers, and to the Hospitals, the State will be happy to forward it as Rum, the price to the publick will be but a trifle more than american Rum, and much cheaper than west India Rum, I do not chuse to determine the matter myself, altho of an opinion that it will be agreable to the army, render the Supply of Rum more ample, and in the approaching season contribute to health, The agent has concluded not to sell it untill your pleasure is known, and will obtain a resolve of the Assembly before they rise, that in case your Excellency should think proper to have it sent on, it may be done immediately, I request your Excellency would give it a consideration, and if you approve of its being sent on, Signify it to Governor Hancock as soon as may be convenient, as I shall probably leave this before your answer can be received, The wine is sold at vendue at about three shillings and 4d. pr Gallon, in specie, its quality admits of its being exposed to any kind of weather without danger of receiving injury.
                  A vessel arrived a few Days since from Spain, has brought a Quantity of Cloathing for the united States, The mortars, Cannon, Military Stores &c. are all gone on, Colo. Crane followed them yesterday.  I have the honor to be with the greatest respects your Excellencys most Obedient Servant

                     W. Heath

                Enclosure

                           26 June 1781

                     At a meeting of Commissioners from the New England States convened at Providence the 26th Day of June 1781 to agree on Some regular method of sending on supplies of Beef to the army during the present year, there were present as follows, vizt
                     FromNew HampshireMr John Taylor GilmanMassachusettsJustice Ely andOliver Phelps, Esqrs.Rhode Island and ProvidencePlantationJabez Bowen Esqr.ConnecticutColo. Henry ChampianHonble Jabez Bowen Esqr. was chosen Chairman Justice Ely Clerk.
                     Resolved unanimously as the opinion of this Convention, that the most Strenuous exertions ought to be made by the aforesaid respective States, in order to furnish the necessary Supplies for the Army, and that as Heaven has furnished us with the means, we shall be Guilty of unpardonable negligence, if we omitt a punctual Complyance of our Duty herein, And as a failure from either of the Said States may be attended with the most fatal consequences to ourselves and posterity, by a continuance or increase of the miseries and distresses of war, And a punctual compliance we have great reason to believe under the Smiles of Heaven, will have the most happy tendency of restoring to us the blessings of Peace And as the army are in need of immediate Supplies of Fresh Beef for the month of July, and any particular regulations & particular Times of forwarding it may tend to make a most dangerous delay.
                     Therefore Resolved that it be most earnestly recommended to the aforesaid States without loss of Time to furnish the army of the united States with the following quantities of Fresh Beef (exclusive of Hides and Tallow) being for the month of July.
                     Massachusetts240,000Connecticut210,000New Hampshire90,000Rhode Island & ProvidencePlantation 30,000570,000pound wtAnd whereas it will be absolutely necessary that the Supplies of Beef be regularly and punctually made at certain fixed Days after the month of July, therefore it is further Resolved that the aforesaid States be requested without fail to furnish the Quantities of Beef hereafter mentioned, (exclusive of Hides and Tallow) to be delivered at Camp, or such other places as may be required by the Commander in Chief, or the Commissary General in each of the months of August, September, October, November and December, respectively, and that the Same be delivered by the said States on the particular Days of each of said months following, vizt
                     lb.Massachusetts120,000in the1stConnecticut105,0006thNew Hampshire45,00011thConnecticut105,00013thMassachusetts120,00019thNew Hampshire45,00025thRhode Island and ProvidencePlan. 60,000 27th600,000Pounds wt monthlyAnd it is further agreed, that the aforesaid States be requested to forward to the Army, the Salt Provisions asked for, and the necessary Supplies of Rum and Summer Cloathing as fast as may be.
                     A true Coppy of the proceedings of the Convention Examined

                           Yr Jabez Bowen Chairman
                        a true Coppy
                        W. Heath
                        M. General


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 4 July 1781
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                  Sir,
                     North Castle July 4th 1781. 10. o’clock A.M.

                  I arrived here with the first Brigade yesterday at 9 A.M.  The 2d by a forced march joined me in the afternoon, and we are now all together ready to execute your orders.  I wait with the greatest impatience to hear from you and the Duke de Lauzun.  I have caused my march to be opened on White plains, in case circumstances should render it necessary.  I am with Respect and personal attachment Sir, your Excellency’s most obedient and humble Servant

                     le cte de rochambeau


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 4 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                  Sir

                     Camp near White plains 4th July 1781.

                  A few minutes after my arrival upon this Ground, I received your Excellency’s favor of this morning.  Were I to give way to the anxiety I feel to see the Union between your Army and that of mine, I should request you to march tomorrow morning from North Castle, but when I consider the fatigue which your troops have undergone from their long and rapid marches, at this very hot season, I am much inclined to wish you to give them one more day’s rest in your present quarters, and the more so, as there is now no real occasion for making an uncommon degree of haste.  I shall however leave the matter intirely to your Excellency’s determination, only wishing you to give me notice of your approach, that I may have the happiness of meeting and conducting you to your Camp which will be about four Miles on this side the Village of White plains.  With perfect consideration and Esteem I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s Most obt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Arthur St. Clair, 4 July 1781
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philada July 4th 1781

                  By your Excellency’s Letter of the 23 of June I find that you expect me to go on to the southward as soon as the State shall have such a Number of Troops in their Line as will give me a suitable command; and that the Time of my joining the army must depend on that Circumstance.  I must have misunderstood your Excellency very much about this matter, or there is some mistake in it—I think you informed me you had not intended that I should serve in that Quarter this Season, and, but for the Situation of my Family, I should have joined you before now—It will indeed be distressing to a very great Degree to serve in any Place where there is not a probability, that in case of necessity, I could visit them, which the Distance in Carolina, and my Rank in Virginia would preclude—Mrs St Clairs Case is truly deplorable, and requires every Attention; but she has a double Claim upon me, as her misfortune was undoubtedly brought on by her anxiety at the Time the great Clamour against me, and has returned annually about the same time ever since; and she is now so ill as to render confinement necessary.  All Places are in themselves equal to me, tho, independent of the above Circumstance, I own I should wish to make this, which will I think certainly be my last Campaign, with your Excellency.  It may perhaps have escaped your Attention that if I go to the southward I must necessarily command the Marquis, and that may disgust him—if however you think it necessary, I shall prepare myself for it immediatly, and give up, as I have ever done, every consideration of personal Concern.  I beg the favour of an Answer as soon as possible and am with great Esteem and attachment Dear Sir Your most obedient humble Servant

                     A. St Clair


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 4 July 1781
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Hartford July 4th 1781

                  I have this day sent on to the Regt 36 remounted Dragoons, properly Accoutred.  I have at the same time forwarded on to Col. Sheldon about 20 P. Shoes 50 P. Boots, 130 Cartouch Boxes & belts, 60 leather halters a few Spare Swords, & some Saddles.  I cannot give an accurate Return of the Swords & Saddles, as they will be recd at Litchfield where they have been prepared.
                  I have purchased about 20 Horses myself, & by the assistance of the State—Purchases I hope in a few Days to send on another Detachment about 30 or 40 Dragoons, properly accoutred.  I have the Honor to be, with great Regard your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

                     Benja. Tallmadge


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

                     Head Quarters Near Dobb’s Ferry Thursday July 5th 1781
                     Parole industry
                     Countersigns ActivityAttention

                  For the Day Tomorrow
                  Major General HoweLieutenant Colonel HullMajor KeithInspector—1 Massachusetts brigadeThe Hour for issuing the Parole and Countersigns and furnishing the Adjutant General with the daily orders will be Two ô clock: at this time the Commander in Chief expects that all the General Officers and the Heads of every Department will attend at Head Quarters if there are no particular reasons to prevent it, and when there are that they will send some persons to represent them—the General officer of the preceding day will then make his Report and he that is of the Day receive his instructions, he will also receive the Parole and Countersigns from the Commander in Chief and immediately give them to the Adjutant General—The General Officers—and Heads of Departments present at other times they are to be had at the Adjutant General’s office where Orders will be issued as usual.
                  The Regimental Quarter Masters will see that deep Vaults are immediately sunk in proper places and that Vaults are surrounded with Bushes and covered with fresh Earth every morning.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Carleton, 5 July 1781
From: Carleton, Joseph
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     War Office July 5th 1781

                  The Board beg leave to enclose for your Excellency’s opinion thereon, copies of two Letters from Colonel Wood and the German Chaplains at Lancaster, praying leave to go into New York for the purpose of negociating an exchange.  I have the honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellency’s Most Obed. Hble servant

                     Jos: Carleton Secy
                     (by order)

                Enclosure

                        Dear Sir
                        Lancaster June the 29. 1781

                     Our present situation obliges us, to deliver up to you this our humble petition which we trust you will be condescending enough as to bring it to the Scope we aim at.
                     We are separated from our Soldiers or Congregations and there is no hope ever to see them again consequently there remains not the least Business of Importance for us to satisfy our ministry or sacred Callings.
                     For this and many other very urgent Reasons we wish heartily that by the help of God and of the right honourable Congress of the United States of North America we may get permission to go to New York upon our parole of Honour in order there to promote either our public and convenient Exchange; or our going over to Europe into our Native Country.
                     No doubt Sir by your wonted magnamity towards us You will be inclined not only to accept of this our present petition but also to support it with your humane intercession by the Congress and make us so happy as to direct our Ways for Reading Town by your open passports to Philadelphhia there to receive the very obliging Resolution of Congress, we wish for.  Duly expecting you generously complying with our most engaging requests we are with all true Esteem and respect Sir your most humble & obed. servant

                        John August Leonard Kohler
                        Chaplain to the reg. Specht
                        Brunswick Troop

                        John Christian Timotheus Foegel

                        Chaplain to the Rgt Rhotz
                        Brunswick Troops

                        Copy

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        Lancaster 30 June 1781

                     I have just received the inclosed request from two of the German Chaplains which I beg leave to refer to your Consideration Those Men have an uncommon influence among the Soldiery and have always recommended to them an orderly Behaviour and discouraged every Attempt to desert in order to join the Enemy—and to them in a great measure I think is owing the extreme good Behavior of the Troops—add to this they have the highest Opinion of the Justness of our Cause and the impossibility of Great Britain ever being able to subjugate us they are delighted with our Government and wish to get their families over after the Conclusion of the War from these Considerations I am clearly of Opinion it would be good policy to exchange them if possible or to allow them to return to Germany on parole.  I have the Honour to be with great Respect Sir Yr very obed. Servt

                        James Wood

                        Copy


Title: To George Washington from Udny Hay, 5 July 1781
From: Hay, Udny
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Poughkeepsee 5th July 1781

                  Your Excellency I hope will forgive my troubling you with the enclosed narrative, which I was inducd to take the liberty of transmitting from the opinion of the Narrators Honesty & Candour, having known him several years previous to the commencement of the present war, and am convinced whatever Errors he has committed in the Narration may have the effect of ignorance not design, I imagined too though it might contain no new information it might tend to corroborrate or disprove intelligence Your Excellency may have already recd—I have the Honor to be with every sentiment of respect, Your Excellencys, most obedient & very humble sert

                     Udny Hay

                Enclosure

                           4 July 1781

                     Mr Hoppins’s Narrative.
                     On 24th March 1780 I was made a Prisoner by order of Major Carleton, then commanding at St John’s, taken by a Guard from the River La Sable, on Lake Champlain, where I had seventeen Men at Work making Staves & Ship Timber, and carried Immediately to the Provost at St John’s, where after one Month I was put in Irons, and confined in that way till the 24th May last, when I broke out, in Company with another Prisoner, and went amongst the Canadians at the back of the River Chamblee, who entertain’d us very kindly; On 4th June I set off from thence, and after travelling sixteen Days got to Pitts-Ford on Otter’s Creek.
                     As an Inhabitant of Canada ever since the retreat of the American Army from thence, I had frequent opportunities of being in Company with many British Officers, all of whom, since it was known in that Country that France had entered into an Alliance with the Americans, appear by their Conversation to have the greatest distrust of the Canadians as have all the Officers of Government in General, many of whom I have heard Converse on the Subject at Mr Bells House, where they often reported—While in the Provost, I was informed by Monsieur Desour, who had been bred a Clergyman, and was confined with me on Account of his political Principles, that the Clergy were now extremely well affected to the American Cause, which from my own Observation, and other Intelligence, I firmly believe to be the Case.
                     I have been informed that several of the Canadians, Officers in that Country in the Pay of Great Britain, have resigned their Commissions. I know myself that some of them have done so.
                     The Canadians in general retain their arms, though about June was a Year, by a Scheme found for the Purpose, great Numbers of them were found to be disaffected; In deed the disaffection appear’d so general, that Government found it inconsistant with the Safety of the Colony to punish, or even to take Notice of any but those who were in a particular Degree esteemed dangerous.
                     The Number of English Regiments in Canada, and on the Lakes are 8th—29th—31st—34th—44th—47th—53d—& 84th—Sir John Johnsons Regiment—Jessops Corps, and Rogers’s Rangers, neither of which  are on the Establishment—There is no Canadian Corps at all, though a few Canadian Officers still retain their Commissions.
                     I have been Informed that there are upwards of Two thousand German Troops, but I neither know the Number of Regiments, nor can I put full Confidence in the General Number given of these Troops.
                     RegimentsNo.Station8th450On the Lakes47th  3 Compys only120Doof 34th100Doof 53d100DoGrenadr Compy of 84th60DoDo of Sr John’s  60  Do 890  29th450Canton’d on the Rivr Sorell31st450at Quebec44th250Do53d remg part150at the Mouth of Sorrell84th  Do500Do34th  Do 350Point aux Fere, Isle aux NoixSt John’s and ChamblerSir John’s  Do550above MontrealJessop’s Corps at most150at St John’s & in the Quarter MastrsDept & EngineersRogers’s Rangers 250 at St John’s3100I am convinced from my own knowledge of the Strength of the Regiments before my confinement, which I obtain’d from Merchants and officers in the Army, and from the Answers I got since from the Sentinels, who from time to time guarded me, that the above Account of the Strength & Position of the above mentioned Regiments and Corps is nearly true, being
                     890stationed on the Lakes3100in Canada—&2000German Troops5.990—making in the whole Five thousand nine hundred and Ninety.I am entirely ignorant of the Number of Savages, but have understood that about fifteen hundred drawed Provisions.
                     Many of the Hessians have attempted to desert, some of whom have been retaken and severely punished, several were drowned in attempting to Cross the River, and a Number are supposed to have been lost in the Woods.
                     The Privates amongst the Tories are extremely dissatisfied; the British Emissaries who come into this Country persuade them, that if they go to Canada they  will draw Provisions and Clothing, without being obliged to join any Corps, but upon their arrival and refusing to take up Arms, they are generally confin’d in the Main Guard; I became fully acquainted with this Mode of proceeding by being confined there sometime myself—I firmly believe that if the Tories were assured of a full Pardon for past Offences those who have no Considerable Property to lose, wou’d embrace the first opportunity of deserting—And I also believe that many of the Hessians wou’d take the same Step, if they could with any tolerable Degree of Safety, as they are dissatisfied with the Pay they now receive, as well as the Bounty formerly given, both of which they declare is much less than they were originally promised, and their Time of Service, according to their own Opinion of their Inlistment, expires next Decr—though they are affraid of being detain’d for a longer time; Their being informed too of the War betwixt England and Holland has tended greatly to their present Uneasiness, as they think a great part of Germany will assist the latter of these Powers.
                     They kept but three large Vessels on the Lake last Season, nor were there any more rigg’d when I came away, the rest of their Vessels are in very bad Order and cannot be made fit for Service but with large Repairs.
                     They have been constantly at Work upon the Fortifications at Quebec, and have made that Garrison extremely strong; they have raised likewise Fortifications on some of the Islands below, but I know nothing of the Extent Nature or Intention of them.
                     At Sorrell they have thrown up three Redoubts, none of them of any considerable Extent, and built Barracks under the command of these Redoubts sufficient for a thousand Men.
                     The Fortifications at St Johns are much enlarged.  I have heard it said by Military Men, it wou’d be improper to attempt a defence of that Place with a less Number than two thousand, and from the knowledge I have of the  I am of the same Opinion myself.
                     At the Isle of Noix they have built a Fort, with Barracks in the Inside for about two hundred, and on the outside for about

                         three hundred more.
                     at Point aux Fere they have picketed in a brick House that formerly stood there, and constantly keep an advance Post at that place, They have a Block House on the River Moscaw, and another at St Francis, they have not made any Fortifications of any Sort either at Montreal or Three-Rivers.
                     The following Officers command at the Places, when I left Canada hereafter mentioned.
                     General Haldeman—at Quebec, a Hessian Officer name unknown at Three Rivers—Major Harris of 84th at Sorrell, where Colo. St Ledger commanded till last Fall—General McLean of 84th Regt at Montreal (I am Certain that Genl McLean who commanded at Penobscot is another Person)—Captn Steel of 8th Regt at Chamblee—Colonel St Ledger at St Johns—and Major Dundass of the 34th at Isle of Noix—at Point aux Fere Captn Hois of 34th—A Major by Brevet.
                     I am entirely Ignorant of what Officers command on the Lakes except that General Powel has the Command at Niagara—Both Officers and soldiers of the British Army have the Strongest Aversion to General Haldeman, as have the English & French Merchants—The Officers think him haughty & reserved, the Soldiers blame him for lessening their allowance of Provisions, which he has considerably reduced and for keeping them almost constantly on Fatigue—And the Merchants for having stopt them from carrying on the Furr Trade, and for totally prohibiting the Exportation of Wheat.
                     The Principal Persons I know of who carry Intelligence from the Country are Lt Sutherland of Sr John’s Regt.  Lt McNeil a Torie.  Caleb Clason a Soldier in Rogers’s Rangers—Greene & Joe Bettes, whose Stations I do not know—they receive their Intelligence from the Scotch Patent—Johnstown—Fort Edward and Saratoga—Bewel who goes betwixt Canada & New York, & Hallowbred who gets his Information from Vermont—There may be many others, though I am unacquainted with them.
                     Beef last Winter was six, and Pork twelve Coppers pr Pound—Wheat generally a Dollar and a half pr Bushel, but two Dollars have sometimes been paid by the Merchants—Oats half a Dollar pr Bushel, and Hay extremely scarce, very difficult to be got at any price—I heard of no Expedition being formed against any part of this Country at the Time I broke out of Confinement, but their Army in the Summer are constantly kept in such a situation as enables them to detach a thousand light Troops on the Smallest Notice.
                     I hereby solemnly swear and declare, that the above Narrative is to the best of my knowledge and belief strictly true.

                        Ephraim Hopping

                        Sworn the 4th July 1781 before me

                        Saml Dodge J. Peace


Title: To George Washington from John Hurlbut, 5 July 1781
From: Hurlbut, John
To: Washington, George

                  May it please your Excellency

                     Westmoreland 5th July 1781

                  The Honorable the Continental Congress, to quiet the minds of Pensylvania Resolves that the Garrison of Wyoming should be Relieved with Troops Indiferent to the , & not of the line of Pensylvania or Connecticut or Citizens of either State Refering the whole matter to your Excellency whether or not that Post should be Garrisoned, your Excellency was graciously pleased to ordr a Relief from the Jersey Line, upon the arrival of Capt. Mitchel our people were well satisfied notwithstanding the parts they came from might naturally have raised a jealousy, but now to our grief & surprise we find that Capt. Mitchel Acts directly under order from Governor Reed, & the State of Pensylvania He has Seized Liquors Private property (by vertue of orders he refuses to shew) as he says for the use of the Garrison when there was plenty, & is now a large supply, he refuses to receive supplies of Meat from Mr Sewart (Appointed an assistant Commisary of purchases by the Assembly of Connecticut) of which Article the Post is wholly destitute, he has ordered the Stores to be delivered up to a gentleman from Pensylvania who now acts as Issuing Commissary & Quarter Master.  whether either of the last mentioned offices are necessary we submit to your Excellency—our request is that to quiet the minds of the Inhabitants here the Command might be changed we would beg leave to mention two Gentlemen of the Jersey Line to wit Capt. Mead or Capt. Holmes either of which gentlemen we doubt not might give satisfaction as we have no wish for a party man or the least parshality to  the prejudice of the Continent.
                  Inclosed we send your Excellency the Copies of 2 Letters from Govr Reed which Letters were sent  to Capt. Mitchel for his perusal altho directed to other gentlemen as your Excellency will see other Letters we have not had the opportunity of seeing.  Upon the whole we fear that we have a Gentleman to Command at this post that does not Strictly attend to the resolves of Congress or orders Receivd from your Excellency either of which we most chearfully obey.  we subscribe our selves your Excellencies most obedient & very humle servants

                     Authority
                     Jno. Hurlbut
                     Hugh Forseman
                     Select Men
                     Jno. Hurlbut
                     Jabez Sill


Title: To George Washington from Robert Morris, 5 July 1781
From: Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Philadelphia July 5th 1781

                  You Will find enclosed herein the Copy of an Act of Congress of the 4th June whereby I am vested with Powers to dispose of the Specific supplies required from the several States in such manner as with your Excellencys Advice, I may judge will best promote the Publick interest and Answer the purposes of the present Campaigne—some former acts of Congress respecting these same Specific Supplies directed the Board of War to Collect them & form Magazines thereof in Consequence of Which that Board Wrote to the several States to know what Supplies were Collected or what they might depend on, And I have long Waited for the Answers, but as yet they have only one Answer which is from the Executive Authority of Pensylvania, who said they could not assure them of a barrell of Provisions, but since the date of that Ansr the Assembly have empowered me to procure their share of specific Supplies and to pay to Congress the balance due on the 4/10 of the 18th of March 1780 Emission of Paper dollars and have Assigned me as a Fund for effecting these things.  their Whole Emission of State Paper struck in Virtue of an Act of the 4th April last Amounting to £500.000 this Curry at present the paper is in the same depreciated State that disabled the Council from procuring the Supplies and consequently is of no use to me but as I think the Measures adopted by the Assembly will probably Appreciate this Money Considerably I shall charge this State with the 3000 bbls of flour supplied the Army by Genl Schuyler & Mr Lowrey, and with 4,000 bbls of flour I have Obtained here on behalf of the State, but it is not eligible to transport flour from this State, Delaware or Maryland (the upper parts), either to yours or the Southern Army because there is plenty much nearer to both, that may be purchased as Cheap as in either of the States mentioned and the expence of transportation, equal or nearly equal to the first Cost of the flour, thereby be saved, I am therefore of the Opinion it is best to Convert these Specific Supplies into Money, and Employ that money for the service of the Campaign And I entertain the same Opinion With Respect to all the Specific supplies now due, for they are so circumstanced that little if any of them will be brought into use in any other manner than by selling them where they lay for the most they will fetch What use can Beef &c. in New Hampshire, Massachusets &c. &c. or flour in Fredk County Maryland or in any of the back Counties be to Our Armies, it would Cost more Money to transport it to the Army than would purchase an equal quantity delivered at your Camp, upon the Whole, I believe we must get your Army Supplied by Contract as soon as we can and Convert these Supplies (if they can be got) into Money to pay the Contractors &ca.  probably the number of Objects that will now claim your attention may induce you to  to be excused from any farther trouble on this score, if so a Letter with your Opinion and Advice in general terms will suffice for me and thereupon I will take the best measures with these supplies that I can devise for the publick interest, on the contrary should you desire to be particularly inform’d of every disposition I make it shall be complied with most Chearfully.
                  I believe the Board of War have Written to your Excellency relative to the Appointment of places of Deposite for Provisions that are to be supplied by Contract this is Essentially necessary before prices can be fixed, but before I enter on this Subject with you I Will have a consultation with that Board in Order to be of one Understanding respecting the terms and Modes of Contracting after Which I shall do myself the honour of addressing you again.  With the utmost Respect and Esteem, I am Dear Sir Your Obediant Humble Servt

                     Robt Morris
                     S.I. of Finance


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Carleton, 6 July 1781
From: Carleton, Joseph
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     War Office July 6th 1781

                  The Board have the Honor to inclose, a copy of a regulation made in consequence of the order of Congress communicated to your Excellency respecting the supplies for your Table.  If any additional regulation is wanted, or any thing further is necessary on the subject, they shall be happy to do every thing in their power for your accommodation.  I have the Honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt Hble servant

                     Jos: Carleton Secy
                     (by order)


Title: From George Washington to James Clinton, 6 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

                     Dear SirHead Quarters Dobbs’s Ferry July 6th 1781

                  In my last Letter, I requested you to forward all the Continental Troops from the Northward to West Point by Detachment as soon as possible—some circumstances since having made an alteration in the arrangements of the army, such of the Troops as shall not have been sent off, before the receipt of this Letter you will be pleased to detain at Albany untill further Orders: Causing the whole of the regular force to be assembled at that place, & held in the most perfect readiness for embarkation.
                  Transports must also be previously provided, so that the Troops may sail from thence at the shortest notice.  I am Dear Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander McDougall, 6 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters, near Dobb’s Ferry July 6th 1781

                  The two new whale boats at Wapping’s Creek, & the one at New-borough in the charge of Mr Brooks Depty Cloathier, are much wanted here; I wish you to send a party for them, have muffled Oars provided, & forward’d to King’s ferry or Tarry Town, to the order of Majr Darby.  the party of Men that conduct the boats will return to West point, after delivering them to Majr Darby.  I am, with respect your most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 6 July 1781
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Camp Phillipsburgh July 6. 1781.

                  As your Excellency required a strict account of the delivery of your order for the army to halt, on the day they marched to this camp, I have inquired into facts, which I beg leave to state.
                  I have asked Odell the guide, the distance between Storm’s bridge & the one on the Dobbs ferry road—"about three miles"—Where were the fallen trees, on passing of which I sent back an express to Colo. Dearborn, directing some men with axes to advance, to cut them out of the way?  "Near half way from the bridge on the Dobbs ferry road to Storms bridge."
                  I asked Colo. Dearborn—How far was you with the advanced guard, from the fallen trees, when the express delivered my order for ax men to come forward to clear the road of them?  "about 100 rods."  Where do you judge the head of the column was at that time?  "On this side the lower (or Dobbs ferry) bridge."
                  On riding over the ground from near Storms to the spot where your Excellency desired me to send some body to halt the army, I judge the distance between them to be three fourths of a mile.  I have gone over the ground where Mr Demler (by whom I sent the order) met the army; & find that the party advanced from the vanguard was within about eleven hundred yards of Storms bridge—the head of the vanguard about one hundred & fifty yards in the rear of that party, and the head of the column about six hundred yards in the rear of the vanguard.  To the officers at the head of each, in succession, he spoke to this effect.  "Colo. Pickering has sent me to inform you that it is the General’s order that the army should halt till farther orders."  Only to the officer at the head of the column, he added (agreeably to the direction I had given) "you are to halt when the head of the column is within three hundred yards of the vanguard."  The same order he just afterwards communicated to the adjutant general, who knew that he belonged to my office.
                  Some few hours elapsing before any farther orders were given, the army was again set in motion and marched as far as Storms.  If this was a fault, it cannot affect me, or any gentleman under my direction.  After your Excellency had said "Let the army encamp here"—I immediately descended the hill, & galloped on till I reached the army.  I was surprized to find it so far advanced: but this arose in part from my having formed an erroneous opinion of the distance between the two bridges; thinking it much greater than it really is.
                  Your Excellency will recollect that after gaining the front of the army, you rode slowly on; and after ascending the hill by the road near Storms on a walk, that you stopped at the forks of the road, & described the different places to which the two roads led—that after proceeding still farther up the hill, you then gave the order to halt the army.  All this must have given time for the army to have advanced a good way towards Storms, admitting (what is doubtless true) that when we were at the fallen trees the head of the column was advanced at least as far as, & probably on this side, of the lower bridge.
                  I beg leave only to add, That Mr Demler declares that he stopped not a moment by the way: that after descending the hill he was called to by some gentlemen, and desired to stop; but he replied "I cannot" & went on.  I have the honour to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most obedt servt

                     Tim: Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Philip John Schuyler, 6 July 1781
From: Schuyler, Philip John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Albany July 6th 1781

                  my apprehensions that the boat building would be retarded for want of nails is already verified, by monday next I shall not have a pail left, as the blacksmiths cannot keep pace with the expenditure because of the Slowness of the process in makeing these nails out of bar Iron, we  now Compleat five batteaus a day and on monday I believe they will be augmented to eight and to twelve by the End of the Ensuing weak, hence the expence of nails will be four hundred weight per day.
                  whatever timber can be procured here either for bridges or other necessary works as It can be carried  in the Batteaus will become not only a public saving but tend to facilitate the operation and prevent embarrassment in a Critical moment, I have therefore taken the liberty to direct a very considerable quantity which lay in the adjacent woods to be brought to the river, and were I not apprehensive of the inability of the public to make good any further engagements in specie payments I should recommend twelve or fifteen hundred feet of bridge to be framed here.

                     who is to convey the batteux from hence to the Army, If all the troops are with drawn before they are finished—perhaps the western Connecticut militia Intended for the army may execute this service.
                  I find that two of my letters which I Delivered to the Q. Master horse and which I expected had reached Your Excellency before this are still detained here to go by this Conveyance, I am Dr Sir with every respectful sentiment and friendly wish Your Excellency’s obedient Servant

                     Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from William Lord Stirling Alexander, 6 July 1781
From: Alexander, William Lord Stirling
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                      July 6th 1781

                  ‘Tis a very great mortification to me to find my Feet are in such a Condition this Morning as to make it improper for me to go abroad.
                  I esteem the misfortune the greater at this moment as it deprives me of the Pleasure and Honor of paying my Respects to Count Rochambeau and the Officers of the army under his Command.  I am with the highest Respect and Regard, your Excellency’s most Obedient and most humble Servant

                     Stirling,


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Louis-Ambroise, chevalier de Villefranche de Genton, 6 July 1781
From: Villefranche de Genton, Jean-Louis-Ambroise, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                     sir
                     fort heckimer july 6th 1781

                  i think it my duty to inform your excellency it is impossible to Build the fort agreable to the instruction i reciv’d from you, i am disitute of Every meterial and assistance.  i have done every thing in my power to forward the intended works, the difficulties Occurd you will see by my journal, at present will appear it impossible to do any thing, Colo. Courtlands Regnt is Relievd by one hundred and twenty men of Coll Willets regimt after the necessary distribution made by him of his men there are very few remaining for fatiague, he orderd a small block house built at fort daton to Cover the flatts, he desires me to put the present fort heckimer in the best posture of defence i possibly Can, with the assistance he Can give me, wich Operations i hope to Compleat in sixteen or twenty days. the present fortified house of heckimer will be sufficient to repel a Considerable force if not attackt with Cannon; it is a square stone house, walls two feet thick and loop holes for small arms, to defend it; it is picketed with pickets ten inches thick and ten feet high, on two opposite angles, will Compleat two Block houses which will mount one six pounder Each on the upper floor.
                  i take the liberty to mention to your excellency that here are eleven pieces of Cannon and a large quantity of amunition in my opinion not sufficiently guarded, and would better  to be distrebuted between this and schenectady.  the inabitants have fortified a number of houses on the river, and some of them are in good defence against small arms.
                  i shall Continue to employ every asistance for the good of the public till i recive your excellency’s further orders.  i have the honor to subscribe my self your excellency’s Most obedient and Very humble servant

                     Maj. Villefranche

                Enclosure

                           June 25-July 5 1781

                     General Clinton having detaind me at albany till the 18 jun, i arived at fort heckimer the 15th.
                     26.  i reconoiterd the ground.
                     27.  rain.
                     28.  rain till 10th o Clock, then 50 fateague men no Carpenters.
                     29.  no fateague men no Carpenters.
                     30.  no fateague men no Carpenters.
                     1 of july.  no fatigue men no Carpenters.
                     2.  five fateague men ten Carpenters from 10 oClock till noon, no work in the after noon.
                     3  eleven Carpenters at 9 oClock.  no fateague men.
                     4.  27 Carpenters and 8 fateague men from 8 oclock till ten.
                     5.  seven Carpenters no fateague men.

                        Majr Villefranche


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

                     Head Quarters near Dobbs Ferry Saturday July 7 1781

                     Parole
                     Countersigns

                  For the Day Tomorrow
                  Brigadier General GloverColonel PutnamMajor MorrelInspector—3d Massachusetts BrigadeNo Sutler to harbour or entertain any persons (not belonging to the Army) without a pass but are to send them to the officer of Police or commanding officer of the regiment or Corps they Suttle for who are to examine them and if they do not give a good account of themselves or if there is room to suppose them of suspicious Characters they are to send them to the General of the day for further examination.
                  Lieutenant Rogers of the second Connecticut Regiment is appointed Aid de Camp to Brigadier General Huntington and to be respected accordingly.
                  A Fatigue party to parade tomorrow morning at Sunrise the officer commanding will receive his instructions from the Deputy Quarter master who will furnish him with tools.
                  Three Coopers to be sent this Evening to Commissary Irwin’s Quarters for a continuance.
                  Twenty Waggoners from the Line to be sent to the Quarter Master General’s quarters this evening—the first and second Connecticut brigades will furnish four each, the other brigades three each.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 7 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                  Dear Sir—

                     Head Quarters near Dobb’s Ferry 7th July 1781

                  I wish to see you at Head Quarters as soon as possible—You can leave the Superintendence of the Laboratory preparations, without any Injury to the Care of your officers, & come on directly—I have received your Letter of 2d July—I shall consult with you on its Subject when you arrive.  I am &a

                     G.W.


Title: From David Humphreys to John Pray, 7 July 1781
From: Humphreys, David
To: Pray, John

                     Head Quarters Dobb’s Ferry July 7th 1781

                  The Commander in Cheif, directs that the three new Whale Boats built at Wappings Creek under the Superintendance of Mr Sheaf, should be made use of as Guard Boats—Captain Pray will apply to Major General McDougal for the same, or if Genl McDougal has sent them to the Orders of Major Darby—Majr Darby will be pleased to deliver these three Boats to Capt. Pray, on his Order—Should they already be appropriated to any other service, they are notwithstanding to be taken for the beforementioned purpose & others to be substituted in their Room if necessary.

                     D. Humphrys
                     Aide De Camp


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 7 July 1781
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     In Council Philada July 7th 1781

                  I am to acknowledge your Excellencys favours of the fifteenth and twenty fourth June last, the former would not have remained so long unanswered, but that we wished to have the full result of the proceedings of the Assembly, so as to give the most satisfactory account of our prospects and expectations.  We have now to acquaint your Excellency, that agreeable to the inclosed Resolutions, Robert Morris Esquire has taken upon him the procurement of the supplies of this state, the money appropriated for this purpuse having been put under his intire direction and management.  An arrangement which is very acceptable to us, as promising more certainty, and relieving us from a duty which could not be performed without being better provided with the Means of purchase, than we have been for many Months past.  We have directed our purchasers to close their Returns on the twentieth Instant, by which time, we expect their services will be unnecessary, and their interference improper, as Mr Morris will have the intire direction and responsibility.  So far as our assistance and co-operation may be necessary, we shall chearfully give it, having no object more at heart than the establishment of a permanent system, which shall ensure constant and regular supplies.
                  Soon after we received your Excellencys favour of the fifteenth of June Lieutenant Colonel Forrest, sent us a return of the Officers of the Artillery Regiment, signed by him as Commandant of the Regiment late Proctors, by which it appeared there was a vacancy of the Majority of the Regiment, and a note at bottom, that Major Eustace and Captain Simmonds having been irregularly introduced they were not considered as Officers of that Regiment.  On the same day, Captain Porter made an application for the appointment of Major.  As these measures supposed the Resolves of Congress of the twenty fifth of May to be retrospective, and to differ very materially from the sense of your Excellencys letter of the fifteenth Ult. we thought proper to remit the Return, and to decline Captain Porters application until it should receive your Excellencys approbation.  Colonel Carrington we believe is in Virginia—we have not heard from him since his accession to this Command.
                  We are obliged to your Excellency for the information respecting Mr Bigham who has refused to give us any account of the money, and the whole will now probably be lost.  We are at a loss to know upon what principles, an application for restoration of his rank, could be founded, but are clearly of opinion your Excellencys determination thereupon, was most favourable to the publick Interests, which we apprehend will be essentially served by a punctuallity, and fidelity in pecuniary Transactions.  We should be farther obliged to your Excellency to direct a Copy of the proceedings of this Court Martial, to be forwarded by the proper Officer it being necessary to account for the deficiency occasioned by this Embezzlement.
                  We are anxious to comply with your Excellencys request as to the Rifle Corps.  General St Clair with the assistance of Major Parr has pointed out a number of retiring Officers to be employed.  It seems granted on all hands that a bounty in hard money and some advance will be necessary, unfortunately our Treasury possesses no Coin of this kind, and from a late tryal of the Assembly to get a Loan of twenty thousand pounds, of which they only got two thousand five hundred, and of which but half is yet paid, we doubt our ability to complete the business.  However we have made the attempt by way of subscripton founded on a strong representation of the importance of the services, and will do every thing in our Power to complete the business.  I am with great respect and regard Your Excellencys Most obedient and very humble servant

                     Jos. Reed
                     President


Title: To George Washington from Philip John Schuyler, 7 July 1781
From: Schuyler, Philip John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Albany July 7th 1781

                  I received the inclosed last evening from Mr Fox, I cannot afford the intilligence it contains of the enemys force the least credit, nor that respecting this place and Schenectady, nor have any reason to believe a defection of the people on the Grants, tho Individuals may prosecute a correspondance with no very favorable intentions, I sincerely wish the Controversy between the vermontese and this state adjusted, and that the former, restricted to the only boundery they can with any propriety claim, were declared Independant, the advantages which would result to the states in general could be immediate and I believe essential, I am Dear Sir most Sincerely and affecly Your Excellencys obedient Humble Servt

                     Ph: Schuyler

                Enclosure

                           c.7 july 1781

                     Unfortunatly the Bird is flone but I Can asure that by the Last of this Month or the first of August and perhaps sooner the Enemy will appear in three Devisions well Near Eight thousand strong in the whole one Devision by Lake George Comander unknown 2nd mohake River Comd. by Sr John 3rd from Niagara Comd. by   A Genl Powell to meet and Randevese at Albany and Shenectida which last place is said to be sold and the first Nearly so.  Secret Negosiations go on with the grants as well as by flaggs as is said and it is Expected by my Informer this flag as is now said to be gone from the grants is to Compleat the work between Governers Haldaman and Chitenton.  large is the preparations at St Johns of Every warlike kind both by Land and in the Lakes and to Secure a Retreat if Need be they have Artilery plenty for the field and will Bring some Large Canon as Large 18rs & 24rs but Chiefly of fours and Sixes from the westward and will thro up works as they will Come at Crompond and  Ty and gages Hill and where Else it may Require.


Title: From George Washington to Elisha Sheldon, 7 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

                     SirHead Quarters near Dobbs’s ferry 7th July 1781.

                  If you have not already withdrawn the Chain of Dragoons from the upper Road you will be pleased to do it and establish a Chain from hence to Southington at the following places.  two Dragoons at each—Bedford—Danbury—Woodbury Southington—The French Hussars will be upon the Route from Harford Eastward.  You may take, for this purpose, such men as are not fully accoutered and equipped.  I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Nathaniel Stevens, 7 July 1781
From: Stevens, Nathaniel
To: Washington, George

                     Hartford July 7th 1781

                  Agreeable to Your Excellency’s Direction I waited on his Excellency Governor Trumbull at his Seat in Lebanon, delivered him the Letters, and make him a Report of the Provision and Rum received agreeable to the inclosed with a Copy of a Letter annexed.
                  His Excellency informed me that the State by Commissioners, with the other New England States, had the 26th Ulto resolved to furnish the following Quantities of fresh Beef this Month.
                  Vizt.Massachusets State240,000 lb.Connecticut210,000New Hampshire90,000Rhode Island30,000570,000His Excillency informs me also, that the State would be able to furnish about Nine thousand Barrels Beef Pork, & Fish this Season, including what had then been delivered.
                  A Drove of Cattle set off Yesterday Morning from Farmington.  I have wrote by Express very pressing upon the Subject of Cattle being forwarded, also to Colonel Champion whom I did not see.
                  I have not as yet seen or learnt where the Person is that contracted to supply fresh Beef for June and July on Account of Rhode Island: when I can find him, who I expect is in the Western part of the State, I shall return to Camp by the Way of Fishkill soon as possible, but as the constant Riding in the excessive heat has much impaired my health, I do not expect to be able to return with as much Expedition as I should otherwise.  I have the Honor to be with due Respect, Your Excellency’s most obedient Servant

                     N. Stevens D.C.G. Issues


Title: General Orders, 8 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters near Dobbs Ferry Sunday July 8th 1781
                     Parole Paris
                     Countersigns Brest
                  Dunkirk
                  For the Day tomorrow
                  Brigadier General PattersonColonel Henry JacksonMajor Prior.Inspector—Stark’s brigadeFor the working party
                  Colonel Greaton  Major OliverThe Surgeons who have not yet been furnished with Lint and Bandages will please to apply for them at the Flying hospital one mile in the rear of Head Quarters.
                  Lieutenant Thomas T Jackson of Colonel Sheldon’s dragoons is appointed Aid de Camp to Major General Lord Stirling and is to be respected accordingly.
                  The following officers are appointed to do the regimental Staff duty in the Fifth Connecticut regiment vizt.
                  Lieutenant Aaron BenjaminAdjutant from 1st January 1781Lieutenant Ezra LeePaymaster from 22d February 1781Lieutenant Reuben AndersonQuarter master from 1st June 1781and are to be obeyed accordingly.
                  A Working party under the command of a Colonel and Major to parade tomorrow morning at eight ô clock on the Grand parade with their arms and packs, to march to Dobbs ferry there to erect such Fortifications as Lieutenant Colonel Gouvion (who will attend as Engineer) shall point out.
                  An accurate Return of the number of recruits that have joined the several state lines and the Artillery between the first of June and first of July 1781 to be given in at the Adjutant General’s office on Tuesday next specifying what number of them has been rejected as unfit for service.


Title: From George Washington to Theodorick Bland, 8 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Bland, Theodorick

                  Dear Sir,

                     Head Qrs near Dobbes Ferry July 8th 1781

                  I have to acknowledge and thank you for your obliging favor of the 2d—your former (not with me at this time) has also been received—I fervently wish, that Congress, ’ere this, may have recd official accts of the taking of 96 and Augusta; these, with the preceeding events in that quarter, must, I should think, if proper pains are taken to communicate them to the Court of France, & the Mediating powers, have a very happy effect in the expected negotiation of Peace.
                  I derivd much satisfaction from Colo. Carys accts of the Spirit and temper of our Country men, & rejoice to hear that so few of them have joined the enemy—would to God they could rise as one man, & extirpate Lord Cornwallis & his whole Band—I wish the aid of Congress to my request for a Corps of Riflemen may bring them to me, & in time; they would be of infinite Service to me, as I have already experienced in the little affair on the third, when the fire from the Hessian Yagers (with Rifles) did us all the damage we sustained.
                  The French Army formed its junction with me at this place on the 6th; I am about establishing a Communication at Dobb’s Ferry with a view of sherking my transportation from Pensylvania—It is with much pain and mortification I inform you, that the Recruits for the Regular Battalions comes in very slow—that I begin to despr, not only of seeing them full, but even respectable—and what dependence is to be placed in my requisition for militia I am unable, at this moment, to form an opinion.
                  Tho’ last in order, it was first in my mind, to thank you, (and I do it with every sentiment of gratitude) for your polite attention to Mrs Washington, who will require, if circumstances should not permit her to return to Virginia your civilities—Be so good as to present my best respects and wishes to Mrs Bland and be assured that I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Sert

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Navy Department, 8 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Navy Department

                     GentlemenHead Quarters near Dobb’s Ferry 8th July 1781

                  I have been honord with your Favr of the 23d ulto—& feel myself much obliged by the readiness while which you have complied to, or rather anticipated my Requests for Cannon & Powder—you will be pleased to rest assured of the Return of the Cannon as soon as they can be spared from our Operations—If any more Powder should be in your Power, it is very probable we shall be glad to receive a further Quantity.  with much Regard & Estimation I have the Honor to be &c

                     G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Elias Dayton, 8 July 1781
From: Dayton, Elias
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Troy near Lott’s July 8th 1781

                  As soon as your Excellency’s orders were received, to march the Jersey Brigade, no time was lost for calling the parties at Sussex, Pompton and the Clover the last of them arrived the 6th but we were under the necessity of sending a party into the country to procure cattle, as we have not had any meat for some time past, except what we have been obliged to take in that way—This together with the difficulty of procuring waggons prevented our march until this morning.  I expect tomorrow to pass the two bridges some distance toward Paramus.
                  Enclosed are the proceedings of a general court martial held for the tryal of several persons at Morris Town.  John Cully a capital villain has made the enclosed confessions No. 1 & 2—in consequence of his information, four of the persons he mentioned are apprehended and one of them has confessed the facts as charged. Cully was promised when under examination that every discovery he made should be transmitted to your Excellency and that he would be treated with as much lenity as the honesty of his confesion should appear to entitle him to.  I am your Excellency most Obedient Hbe servt

                     Elias Dayton


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 8 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters near Dobb’s Ferry 8th July 1781

                  I have received your several Favors of the 18th & 24th ulto—and am obliged by the Assiduity with which you have attended to the Business comitted to your Care—I hope the Exertions of the States may prove equal to your Expectations, founded on the good Disposition which you say is generally prevailing, to give us all the Support in their Power—I feel myself however at a Loss to Account for the Silence of the governor of Massachusetts—not having had a Word from him since the Letters I had the Honor to address to him from Weathersfield, dated the 24th May—nor to several others of Later Date which have been written to him on Business of great Importance—add to this, I have a Letter from Genl Fellows of Berkshire, dated 2d of this Month, in answer to my Request that he would Order the militia expected from the two Western Counties to be sent to Albany; in which he says that "no orders had then been given for Detatching any Militia"—from this last Circumstance, I fully join with you in my Fears that the Militia of that State will not be raised by the Time, I hoped to have received them.
                  I hope the States are fully impressed with an Idea of the absolute Punctuality which will be expected from them in the Article of Provisions & other Supplies requested for the Use of the Army—Rum is become an Article of great Necessity—almost none is now with the Army.
                  I have moved our little Army so near the Enemy as to this Place; where I shall hope soon to collect the whole Force we expect—that we may be enabled to commence our operations as early as possible—You will therefore on Receipt of this immediately come on to join the Army—in doing wch you will please to take your Rout thro’ the States of Rhode-Island & Connecticut in such Manner as that you may collect the best and most critical Information of what is doing on each to fulfill the Requisitions made to them—you will also be pleased to make carefull Enquiry on the Roads, & find the Scituation and Progress of all such Supplies as are actually on the Communication, coming to the army—and Use every Effort in your Power that every article may be hastened on with all possible Expedition.  With much Regard & Esteem I am Sir Your most humble servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 8 July 1781
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Philadelphia July 8. 1781

                  Your Excellency will receive enclosed, a Resolve of Congress of the 7th Instant, together with the Extract of a Letter from Governor Greene of the 7th of June which is referred to the Commander in Chief, to take such Order by calling upon the four Eastern States for the Aid of Militia to defend Rhode Island as he shall think necessary.
                  This Reference is made on the Supposition that Governor Greene might probably be unacqauinted at the Time his Letter was wrote, of the Measures adopted by your Excellency for calling out the Militia as well for the Protection of Newport as also in Aid of your military Operations, which may be concerted in such Manner that further Assistance from the Militia for the Security of that State may be thought unnecessary, of which your Excellency can best determine and take Measures accordingly.
                  I have represented the Subject in this Light to Governor Greene.  And have the Honor to be with the most sincere Regard Your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant

                     Sam. Huntington President

                Enclosure

                        Extract of a letter from govr of Rhode island dated June 7th 1781.

                     I will not excite in your Excellencys Breast those disagreeable sensations which must arise from a detail of the distresses of this small state—I will only say that is is impossible for us without the assistance of the neighbouring states to garrison Newport.  And I must earnestly request that Congress would make an early recommendation to the other New England states to furnish a just and equitable proportion of troops, for the defence of that Post which we conceive to be of great consequence to our allies as well as to us.
                     During the time the enemy were in great strength at Rhode island it frequently happened that this state was left in a manner destitute of Succours from the neighbouring states.  At one time there was not a single man from Connecticut or New Hampshire and but one hundred and fifty from MassachusSometimes all the sencible men in the state sometimes a third and others a fourth part were called upon duty.  The intolerable Burdens we then laboured under are so recent and the apprehensions of suffering similar distresses from a like conduct of the neighbouring states are so great that Congress will excuse my being importunate with them to make early recommendations and in such terms and with much precision as they shall think best adapted to procure seasonably the necessary succours.


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 8 July 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                     Amblers Plantation 8th July 1781

                  The inclosed Copy, my dear general, will give you an account of our affairs in this Quarter—Agreably to your orders, I Have Avoided a general Action, and when Lord Cornwallis’s movements indicated it was Against His interest to fight, I Have ventured partial engagements—His Lordship Seems to have given up the Conquest of Virginia.
                  it has been a great secret that our Army was not Superior and was Most generally inferior to the Ennemy’s numbers, our Returns were swelled up as generally Militia Returns are But we Had very few under Arms—particularly lately, and to Conceal the lessening of our Numbers I was obliged to push on as one who Had Heartly wished a general Engagement—our Regulars did not exceed 1500—the Ennemy Had 4000 Regulars 800 of whom Mounted—They thought we had 8000 men—I never encamped in a line and there was a greater difficulty to come at our numbers.
                  Should, as I presume it will, a detachment Be Sent to General Greene I shall Move the Pennsylvanians and Virginians first—The Pennsylvanians I know Have Great objections—But Common Sense points out the expediency of this arrangement which Had already Been made by General Greene—I affraid Congress will Be applied to on the Occasion and Request you will inforce My opinion. Adieu My Dear General, I am going Confidentially to write You By a safe hand, and shall only add the expressions of My affection and Respect.

                     Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 8 July 1781
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Trenton 8 July 1781

                  Part of Capt. Carle’s Troop of our Hunterdon light horse to the amount of about 25 have just now sent me an offer to turn out as voluntiers to proffer your Excellency their Service during the operations in contemplation, either as horse or Infantry as your Excellency shall chuse proposing in case you might prefer the latter to carry a waggon with their firelocks &c.  All that discourages them is the difficulty of subsisting themselves & horses to & from Camp, on which Subject they beggd me to write to your Excellency, & on your order for such subsistence they will immediately set out for Camp.  I have the honor to be with the greatest Esteem Dear Sir your Excellency’s most humble Srt

                     Wil: Livingston


Title: To George Washington from William Lord Stirling Alexander, 8 July 1781
From: Alexander, William Lord Stirling
To: Washington, George

                     July 8th 1781

                  The Guard Boats to rendezvous at Dobbs Ferry.
                  They should not go down from thence untill about half Ebb and they may proceed as low as they judge safe.
                  They may remain there on the look out untill three quarters of the Flood is spent unless they have made observations which ought to be immediately communicated—Their Report is to be received by the Commanding officer at Dobbs Ferry, who is immediately to send it to Head Quarters by a Horseman.
                  At three quarters flood (as above) they should return to Dobbs Ferry, to refresh themselves (or to be relieved) and to be ready to go down the Tide.