Title: From George Washington to The Board of War, 8 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

          Gentlemen.
          Head Quarters West point 8th Octobr 1779

        I have been honored with yours of the 30th ulto on the subject of Major Francis Murray’s exchange for the Hussian Major Stein lately captured—Had Major Stein been taken by a continental Vessel, a preference in favr of Major Murray would have been totally inadmissible—but all circumstances considered, I do not think our Officers, who are prisoners, should look upon themselves injured, when they are acquainted with the claim which Mr John Murray, one of the owners of the Mars, seems to have, of demanding his Brother for Major Stein—more especially, as the remainder of the prisoners taken by that Vessel have, as you report, been generously given up for the Benefit of the Continent—This being in the nature of a private Exchange, Major Stein must undertake to negotiate it himself, by making the proposition either to Genl Clinton or his own commander in Chief as he may judge most proper and I could wish, that he may, in his application, set forth that Major Murray is Brother to the owner of the private Vessel of War that captured him, and that the exchange is effected upon the particular interposition of Mr Jno. Murray.
        The inclosed Return of Men, detained in Philadelphia as Artificers of various kinds, has been made to me by Brigadier Genl Irvine with a request that they may be ordered to join their respective Regiments if not very materially employed. You will observe that the 10th Regt returns no less than 18—a number very severely felt in the weak state which most of our Regiments are in. Besides this, the Men, by being long absent, become debauched and intirely forget all their military duties. Under the present prospect of Affairs we may shortly have occasion for every continental Soldier that can be collected—I shall therefore be glad that the above mentioned persons may be delivered to Capt. Ziegler of the Pennsa line, unless they are employed in a manner that renders their services more essential in Philada than with their Regs.
        Mr Wilkinson is now here endeavouring to organize and reduce to a regular System the Cloathing department. He seems to think, and I agree with him, that one of the first things to be done, is to stop all partial Issues, by purchasing Agents or any other Authority without his privity, otherwise he never can determine, at a view, with what the troops of any particular State, or those who do not come under that denomination, have been furnished, and consequently, he will be much at a loss in apportioning equally the general Stock. I have made him acquainted with the necessity which there has heretofore been of deviating from this rule, merely for want of some person at the Head of the department with competent powers to transact the whole of the business, but I now think it will be proper that Mr Wilkinson should be acquainted with all

the orders that have been given in the course of this year for Cloathing for the next, that he may have a check upon the future applications of those who have been furnished. I have the honor &c.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Peter Gansevoort, 8 October 1779
From: Gansevoort, Peter
To: Washington, George

          Hond Sir—
          Albany Octobr 8 1779

        I have Inclosed my Letter to Major General Sullivan, for your Excellency’s perusal—that you might be informed of my Conduct respecting the Mohawk Indians—I beg Your Excellency woul’d forward the Letter with its inclosed Copy, to Major General sullivan. I have the Honor to be your Excellency’s Most Obedt & very Humble Servt

          Peter Gansevoort


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 8 October 1779
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Philadelphia Octor 8th 1779

        I had the honour to receive your Excellencies Letter of the 4th Instant this morning and have laid it before Congress.
        Before this comes to hand you will receive the Act of Congress directing the North Carolina Troops to halt at Trenton and a Copy of the orders to Col. Clarke in Consequence of your former Letter.
        I have now the pleasure to acquaint your Excellency that Congress fully approve of your Orders, Countermanding the march of those Troops. I have the honour to be, with Sentiments of the greatest Esteem & Regard—Your Exys humble Servant

          Saml Huntington President


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 8 October 1779
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          In Council [Williamsburg, Va.] Oct. 8th 1779.

        In mine of the second of the present month written in the instant of Colo. Mathews delivery of your letter I informed you what had been done on the subject of Governor Hamilton & his companions previous to that moment. I now enclose you an advice of council in consequence of the letter you were pleased to enclose me from the British commissary of prisoners with one from Lord Rowdon. also a copy of my letter to Colo. Mathews enclosing also the papers therein named. The advice of Council to allow, the enlargment of the prisoners on their giving a proper parole has not been recalled nor will be I suppose unless something on the part of the enemy should render it necessary. I rather expect however that they will see it their interest to discontinue this kind of conduct. I am afraid I shall hereafter perhaps be obliged to give your Excellency some trouble in aiding me to obtain information of the future usage of our prisoners. I shall give immediate orders for having in readiness every engine which the Enemy have contrived for the destruction of our unhappy citizens captivated by them The presentiment of these operations is shocking beyond expression. I pray heaven to avert them: but nothing in this world will do it but a proper conduct in the Enemy. In every event I shall resign myself to the hard necessity under which I shall act. I have the honour to be with great regard and esteem Your Excellency’s most obdt & most hbl. servant

          Th: Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 8 October 1779
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir
          8 October 1779

        I am happy to find that your Excellency’s Letter has detained the Assembly this day, as I verily believe electioneering, (for which some men would risque the salvation of their Country) having got into their, Heads, that nothing in the World besides would have been able to check their Impulse for decamping. But what kind of amphibious Production they will make of the Bill (by some Intelligence I have this morning) I am at a loss to guess. A most mortifying Consideration is our declension of public spirit; and as the Depreciation of Patriotism has kept full pace with the depreciation of the Currency, I really dread the Continuance of the war as a Member of the Confederacy at large & the total loss of all the honour acquired by this State, as connected with it in particular unless the next Election produces Men of a very different Temper. But as Providence hath hitherto deduced real Good out of the greatest of our apparent Evils, I doubt not it will overrule to the general Interest even that infernal Lust for accumulating Money, which presents us with so melancholy a Prospect.
        I still continue under the greatest Anxiety respecting the Supplies of Flour, for which I fear that no Exertions will be made by this State adequate to our ability or the Necessity of the Troops—With the highest Esteem & Affection I have the honour to be Dr Sir your Excellencys most humble Servt

          Wil: Livingston


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Lewis Nicola, 8 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Nicola, Lewis

          Sir
          Head Quarters West-Point 8th Octobr 1779.

        I received your favour of the 18th Ulto in due time, but I have lately been so exceedingly engaged, that I had not leisure to take up the Business it refers to sooner—It appears to me, that all the men who Joined the invalid Corps, previous to the 23d of January, may be paid the gratuity of 100 dollars without any further proof than their own words—If any have Joined since, let their names be returned to the Adjutant General with the Regiment to which they belonged, and inquiry may be made of the Commanding Officers, whether they may have not inlisted in Camp, for the War, and received large Bounties. Take Receipts from those, to whom you pay the Gratuity, specifying that they are engaged for the War, and have them borne as such upon the next muster Rolls—producing this letter to the Board of War, will I immagine procure you the necessary sum of Gratuity money. I am Sir Your most Obedt Servt

          G.W.


Title: From George Washington to James Wilkinson, 8 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wilkinson, James

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters [West Point] October the 8th 1779

        I have received Your Letter of the 5th and should have answered it before, if a variety of important and pressing business had not occurred to prevent it.
        With respect to the subordinate appointments, which you

mention to have made and still propose—I have no authority to direct them nor have I to confirm them. From your Letter of the 12th of last month, the business appears to have been confided by Congress, on your representation, to the Board of War, who I am persuaded will weigh the matter properly on your report, and allow or promote every appointment, essential for carrying on the duties of your department. At the same time I think, that a Deputy, both at philadelphia and Springfield, and a Clerk with each are necessary; Also an Assistant at Camp and one or two Clerks—and a SubCloathier for the Artillery—Cavalry & the Corps not attached to the State lines. These appointments it appears to me will be proper, but no more.
        With respect to partial issues of Cloathing—I am fully in sentiment with you, that they are attended with many inconveniencies—and a regard to my own ease and every other consideration make me very much wish, that they could be avoided. But this cannot be done, while our supplies are so scanty and so irregular, as not to admit of a full distribution—competent to the demands of the Troops. When ever they are directed, it will be from necessity and not choice. I also think, that no issues ought to be made by the purchasing agents to any part of the Army—or at least without your privity, and after a comparative view of the Stock of Cloathing & the wants of the whole Troops, as they may lead to the consequences you mention—and excite jealousies & uneasiness. I shall take the liberty to suggest this matter to the Board of War, in the first Letter I write them, who I am convinced will do all in their power to facilitate & simplify the business of your department. Hitherto there has been no system, or but a very imperfect one—and therefore there could not but be some irregularities.
        The Men employed in the Quarter Master General’s Department—have been usually supplied by him, with Cloathing and it will be best for many reasons that he should continue to do it. This will in a great measure obviate the inconveniencies you seem to apprehend from individual applications in the Staff department. Most Others of the Staff, intitled to Cloathing will draw under some other arrangement.
        I have directed the Adjutant General to make out an Abstract Return of all the NonCommissioned Officers & privates of the Troops of the States Northward of South Carolina—and of all other Corps, which when completed I will inclose You. It will be necessary for You, to obtain as early as possible—the most precise and exact Returns from the Sub or State Cloathiers of the Supplies in their hands on Continental account, for their Troops. These will be essential to govern your Estimates and your distribution and will place the Troops more on a footing of equality—and may prevent improper charges which may possibly be made against the public, for Cloathing held and

delivered in the first instance under the idea of its being a mere State supply, not to be considered in the great Estimate of Common Stock.
        Your plan of assorting and arranging the Cloathing at the Magazines intended for it’s reception in the first instance, previous to it’s coming to the Army for the purpose of a general distribution, after the present wants of the Army are supplied appears to me to be very proper. However—I would observe, that it will always be necessary for You, to keep a quantity of Cloathing in store with or near the Army—to supply contingent demands—of which there are & must be many in all Armies. Of shoes there can seldom be too many, as the expenditure—is great and the soldiery must be furnished with them when they want, whatever supplies they may have received. I am Sir, with regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt sert

          G: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 9 October 1779
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Pittsburgh Octr 9th 1779

        I have the pleasure to inform you that I am now in possession of a sufficient Quantity of provisions to subsist a thousand Men for three Months.
        A party of Indians have lately done some mischief on the forks of Chiat River, & I am informed the Western Mingoes the Wyandots of upper Sandusky & the Shawnese have lately been very Hostile against the new Settlements on Kentucke and at the fall of Ohio; It would have afforded me great pleasure to have destroyed those Indian Settlements which was quite practicable but I considered your Instructions which directs me to Act on the defensive only until further Orders. Should you decline ordering an expedition against Detroit. I can have almost any number of Volunteers to go against the Indian Towns especially from Virginia.
        I take the liberty to inclose a copy of the proceedings of a Genl Court Martial on the tryal of Adjt Gordon No. 1 And a return of the Troops in this district No. 2 The reasons assigned by the Genl Court Martial appear to me inconsistant but—your Excellencys directions will be clear.
        I have informed your Excellency that Captn Heaths Independant Company were a very useless and expensive Corps. and lately I receivd a Letter from Lt Governor Page of the State of Virginia Wherein he takes upon himself to authorize & empower me to join the late Captn Oharras Company to Captn Heths But as I did not consider myself under any Obligation to receive Instructions from him relative to the disposal of the Regular Troops, I have annexed the few Men of Captn Oharras Company to the 9th Virgia Regt & those of Captn Moreheads to the 8th P. Regt where they wish to be & will prove usefull untill your pleasure is known. With the most perfect regard I have the Honor to be yr Excellencys Most Obedt & most Hble Servt

          Danl Brodhead


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 9 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West Point 9th Octobr 1779.

        I have been favd with yours of yesterday. Since I explained to you my motives for directing a change of your position, it has been my wish that you should take such an one, as would enable at the shortest notice to prevent the escape of the enemy by land should they attempt it, but at the same time to have a regard to your own safety. The particular spot I leave to your own discretion and judgment after having fully reconnoitered the Country. Your objection to taking a position too near the probable point of interception, lest it might create a jealousy of your design, is well founded, and I should therefore think that which would serve the double purpose of security and annoyance if necessary, the most eligible.
        General Heath this day transmitted to me the determination of Sir Henry Clinton respecting the rule to be observed in future for admission of persons wanting to go from the Country to the City of New York. This as it regards the Inhabitants of the State I shall transmit to His Excellency Governor Clinton. But as a complaint is made on the part of the enemy of the too great frequency of Flags, I think it would be proper in you to give orders to the Officers upon your advanced

posts to suffer none to pass conducted by Officers of Militia except they have the sanction of the Governor of the state. I am &c.

          P.S. Be pleased to forward the inclosed immediately to Major Tallmadge.


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 9 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

          Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 9th Octr 1779.

        I have been honored with your Excellency’s favor inclosing two acts of Congress of the 24th and 25th Ulto.
        While I express my sense of the approbation with which Congress have honored me, and my pleasure from the manner in which it has been communicated, permit me to congratulate you on the presidency with which you are vested.
        The army must feel the motives to a discharge of their duty encreased, by the flattering marks of honor and attention, with which their endeavours have been received.
        Since my last intelligence which I communicated to Congress, I have been advised from New-York, of the sudden return of the division of troops under Lord Cornwallis. A number of Transports on his Lordships return to the Hook, were immediately ordered for Rhode Islands; part of which sailed on the 27th, and the rest on the 29th Ulto. My correspondent supposes to withdraw that garrison. The advice says further that the troops under Lord Cornwallis were still on ship-board; and that the re-inforcement, in the fleet under convoy of Sir Andrew Hammond, which arrived the 22d of last month, does not

exceed, six hundred men, and these chiefly Hessian recruits—Other accounts speak of them much higher.
        In order to give the Count d’Estaing a more comprehensive detail of my intentions in case a co-operation can be undertaken against New-York; and to obtain the necessary information of his views, I have dispatched General du Portail, and one of my aides (Lt Col. Hamilton) to meet him off Lewis town, for this purpose. I have to regret that circumstances would not admit of some definite, or preconcerted plan, that might have enabled us to proceed with certainty in our measures. In the mean time, however, I am taking every necessary step for a co-operation, as far as our conjectures of his designs, and our situation will authorise.
        The inclosed letter from Major General Sullivan, and the other papers herewith transmitted, came to hand on the 6th instant. I have taken the first moment of leisure since their receipt to send them forward. I congratulate Congress on his having completed, so effectually, the destruction of the whole of the Towns and settlements, of the hostile Indians, in so short a time, and with so inconsiderable a loss in men. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellency’s most obedient and hble servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel William Washington, 9 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, William

          D. Sir
          West point Octr 9. 1779

        I have been informed by a Letter from Abraham Ackerman Esquire, at Pumpton, that the Sheriff of Bergen has in his custody a certain John Springer junior. This Man inlisted in Colo. Hazens Regiment in the Spring 1777—presently deserted and engaged with the Enemy. About the last of June or beginning of July he came to me at N. Windsor and said he had come to claim the benefit of a proclamation which I had issued. I accordingly pardonned him and as he affected great contrition & to be much afraid of falling into the Enemy’s hands, I consented to his being employed in the Waggon Masters departmt, and in about Two nights after he began to enlist men out of the Maryland line for the Enemy’s service; and there was every reason to believe occasioned several desertions. He was tried & sentenced in part, to be employed in some department in the Army or Navy where he would not have an Opportunity of deserting again. I am now to request, that you will receive him from the Sheriff of Bergen in consequence of the inclosed order—and that you will forward him to the

Honble the Marine Committee of Philadelphia with the Letter herewith transmitted, under the care of a trusty NonCommissd officer & a Dragoon or Two. If he is not well secured & watched with great vigilance, he will escape. He is capable of great dissimulation and will affect a great deal in order to deceive the Men. I mention these circumstances that You may put them the more on their Guard. I am Dr Sir with great regard &c.


Title: General Orders, 10 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]Sunday Octr 10th 1779.
          Parole Raritan—  C. Signs Salem. Torbay.

        It was with surprise and concern that the General during the hours of exercise yesterday saw a number of men in their respective encampments: It was his expectation that all men off duty should be manœuvred at the hours appointed: The want of shoes or other articles of clothing cannot be urged in excuse for their not being under arms because they were employed at games of exercise much more violent; He earnestly exhorts officers to attend closely to their duty and by their diligence and example prevent the non-attendance of their men.

        At a division General Court-Martial the 23rd of August last held by order of Major General St Clair, Coll Craige President, Lieutenant Philip Gibbons of the 6th Pennsylvania regiment was tried for, “Repeated disobedience of orders, absenting himself eleven months from the regiment without leave and embezzling public money.”
        The Court are of opinion he is guilty of the two first charges exhibited against him, being breaches of Article 5th Section 2nd and Article 2nd Section 13th of the Articles of War.
        The Court are further of opinion that Lieutt Gibbons (having drawn four thousand, nine hundred five dollars and one third for the recruiting service and producing vouchers for no more than twenty four hundred and eighty dollars expended for that purpose) is guilty of the third and last charge being a breach of Article 4th Section 12th of the Articles of War.
        They therefore sentence him to be cashiered and sent under guard to the Executive Council of the State of Pennsylvania.
        At the General Court Martial of the line whereof Col. Bradford was President, Ensign Patrick Donolly of the 7th Maryland regiment was tried for “Unofficerlike behaviour in ordering returns to be made in the regiment of the men’s names, whose times expire previous to the 1st of May next without the authority of any of his commanding officers”—found guilty of unofficerlike behaviour in ordering returns to be made, being a breach of Article 5th Section 18th of the Articles of War and sentenced to be reprimanded by the commanding officer of the brigade to which he belongs.
        The Commander in Chief confirms the foregoing sentences and orders them to be carried into execution.
        At the same Court, Doctor O’Neil of the 10th Pennsylvania regiment was tried upon the following charges.
        1st—“Neglect of duty and cruel treatment to the sick of the regiment insomuch that they were afraid to apply to him when really sick.”
        2nd—“Embezzling the hospital Stores and appropriating them to his own private use.”
        3rd—“Giving in an unjust forage account and drawing money for the same.”
        4th. “Refusing to discharge the expences of his horse at Millstone when at quarters and for ungentlemanlike behavior to his Mate by making him pay an equal expence for the state stores and afterwards carrying and selling the greatest part of the said stores in the country and at the same time locking up the remainder and depriving him of the use of them during his absence for the space of a week and upwards.[”]

        The Court are of opinion that he is guilty of neglect of duty in several instances.
        They are also of opinion that he has cruelly treated many of the sick of the regiment in such a manner that there were grounds for many being afraid to apply to him when sick being breaches of Article 5th Section 18th of the Articles of War.
        They are of opinion that he is guilty of the 2nd charge, being a breach of the aforesaid Article.
        They are of opinion that the 3rd charge is unsupported and do acquit him of it.
        They are of opinion that that part of the 4th charge, “refusing to discharge the expences of his horse at Millstone when at quarters” is not properly supported, and if it was they consider it not criminal in a military light.
        They are of opinion that he is guilty of ungentlemanlike behaviour in selling in the Country some Coffee and Tea drawn from the State-Store, for which his Mate paid an equal expence and also guilty of locking up the remainder of the State-Stores and depriving his Mate of the use of them during his absence which was upwards of a week, being a breach of the aforesaid Article, and they do sentence him to be dismissed from the service.
        The Commander in Chief confirms the sentence and orders it to take place immediately.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 10 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 10th October 1779.

        I have with great pleasure received your Excellency’s favr of the 7th: Your plan of ordering the Militia to bring out 40 days flour of their own will be a great releif to the Commy General who is only under apprehensions on account of that Article. Of Meat, he gives me assurances of any quantity that may be required. The Quarter Master General is making every preparation for Camp equipage. We shall probably be deficient in Tents, tho’ if I succeed in an application to the State of Massachusetts for 1500, I hope we shall have nearly sufficient. I beleive there will be no want of Camp Kettles.
        I have not heard any thing further from the southward or of Count D’Estaing since I wrote to you last, but I expect every moment some material intelligence.
        The inclosed papers were sent out a few days ago by a flag. As they contain regulations for the future admission of persons wanting to go into the City of New York, I thought it proper to transmit them to your Excellency. I am with the most perfect Esteem and Regard Your Excellency’s Most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Duportail and Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 10 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle,Hamilton, Alexander

          Gentn
          Head Quarters [West Point] Octob. the 10. 1779

        The only material intelligence which I have obtained from New York or respecting the Enemy since your departure, is contained in the inclosed account, which I received yesterday from Captain Monroe. This in your communications with His Excellency Count D’Estaing, you will be pleased to shew him.
        As we shall have occasion for a great many boats, in case a cooperation between the Count & us takes place, I request that you will inform yourselves of the number, which His Excellency has fit for transporting Troops.
        In order to cut off the Enemy’s force on Staten Island, I would suggest that it will be necessary for the Count, as soon as possible after his entry at the Hook, to have measures taken for destroying all their boats on the Staten Island shore. And besides, it will be material that a part of his Ships should be stationed along the Island, to prevent Boats from being sent from New York to withdraw them; and their being stationed in this manner appears to me, the more essential, as the Enemy would annoy them from Land batteries, if they were to continue in the narrows. I am Gentn with great regard & respect Yr Most Obedt servant

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major Henry Lee, Jr., 10 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry Jr.

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West Point 10th October 1779

        I yesterday recd the inclosed intelligence which I have transmitted to Lewis town at the Capes of Delaware, in hopes it may meet Count D’Estaing there. But should he have left Delaware before my dispatches reach him, you will, upon his arrival off the Hook, communicate the inclosed with such other occurrences as may have come to your knowledge. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt.


Title: From George Washington to John Mathews, 10 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Mathews, John

          Sir
          Hd Qrs [West Point] 10 Octbr 1779

        Mr Abraham Martlin a pilot for the North River, called here to day to receive my orders. I thought it best to direct him to Major Lee—to wait the Counts appearance off the Hook, Of this you will be pleased to give information to the Count should he be at the Capes of Delaware.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Phillips, 10 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Phillips, William

          Sir
          Head Quarters [West Point] October 10. 1779

        I have received Your Letters of the 30th of September and 6th Instant.
        I have not been honoured with any particular communication of the reasons which induced Congress to pass the Act, for suspending your and General Riedsel’s going into New York at this time; but I make no doubt they were such, as Congress deemed sufficient, and that they will appear so, whenever they are pleased to make them known.
        It gives me great pleasure to find that Mr Skinner’s conduct has been such as to merit your approbation, and I trust while it may be

necessary for him to remain with you, that he will do every thing in his power for your accomodation. I am however concerned that there is one point, in which it appears by your Letter as well as his own, he has proceeded contrary to his Instructions. Bethlem was the place I pointed out for your residence, and it appearing still to me, the most eligible situation I have directed him to procure You & General Riedsel Quarters there for Yourselves and families. I have the Honor to be with due respect Sir Yr Most Obedt st

          G. W——g——n


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Phillips, 10 October 1779
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Easton [Pa.] October 10th 1779.

        Reports have reached me that a reason for my detention here is my refusing to order to be certified by the British Quarter Master General’s department some accounts delivered in at CharlottesVille in Virginia consequent upon the arrival of Mr Milligan an American Commissioner of Accounts in Virginia.
        I will take a liberty of premising to you, Sir, that whenever I have acted in my publick station according to my best judgement and the principles of honour I can never be carried to rescind such conduct from apprehension of resentment or the flattering prospects of any attainment whatever, so that the pleasing idea of a visit to my friends at New York, or any future intention of the American Congress to my disadvantage, will not operate in any manner upon my mind or actions as it relates to the subject of my present or future situation.
        But, wishing to have my publick conduct appear in a fair and clear light to those for whom I have conceived an opinion of probity and goodness of heart, I will, Sir, take leave to single out your Excellency to state some facts to, relating to the matter which is reported to have

caused the American Congress to stop me at Elizabeth Town from going into New York, after I had journeyed for that purpose upon the faith of a publick agreement from Virginia.
        I will not take up your Excellency’s time unnecessarily by entering into a minute description of all that passed between Mr Milligan and myself in settling the publick accounts between the American Commissaries and the Troops of Convention; I will request only, Sir, that you will have the goodness to peruse the several copies and extracts of letters which I send you and your Excellency will perceive that I have been invariable in my desire of doing every thing for the satisfaction of Mr Milligan’s Commission, and the six first extracts will mark how earnest I was that the accounts should be settled clearly and finally, and that whatever delay may have arisen proceeded from the American Commissaries and Officers, and not created by me or any subordinate person under my command.
        You may observe, Sir, that the accounts were not delivered in to the British Commissary General’s and Quarter Master General’s departments untill the 13th of August, that Mr Milligan had determined at all events to set out for Philadelphia on the next day, that the provision account, though a very voluminous one, being for many months, was immediately examined, settled and certified by the British Commissary General; that the American Quarter master General’s accounts were entered into, examined and reported upon by the British Quarter Master General’s department in a few hours after their being delivered into that office, and had they been made out with that correct precision which great publick accounts generally are they would undoubtedly have been certified and signed by the British Quarter Master General’s department.
        I must take the liberty of trespassing a little upon Your Excellency’s time in this one particular, and to request of You, Sir, to observe that the accounts of the American Quarter Master General’s department should properly consist of three Heads or charges, the one for transport of Officer’s baggage and Soldier’s clothing from Richmond to the Convention Barracks, another for the use of waggons and delivery of forage to Officers and several others of the Troops of Convention upon the march to Virginia, a third and the principal charge is for the American transport of provisions from various parts of the country to the Barracks—these heads, that I have thus distinguished, were however put into one general charge comprised in the words “For transport”—“for Forage”—Had the two first been produced separate, and the Vouchers examined, there could have been no difficulty in settling them and they would undoubtedly have been certified by the British Quarter Master General’s department—this I observed upon

to Mr Milligan as your Excellency may perceive in my letter to him of August 14th, but the positive determination of that Gentleman to set out for Philadelphia on that day prevented all possibility of making any alterations in the accounts as delivered in.
        The third charge, viz. that for the American transport of provisions could never be certified by us as it is a transport we know nothing of, having no connection with the hire of it, no knowledge from whence it comes, and entirely arbitrary in every instance—It is an account which we can only receive, this has been done, I have received the Account and sent it with the others to Sir Henry Clinton His Majesty’s Commander in Chief in America.
        I will mention only one more circumstance relating to this matter, it is a paragraph in my letter to Mr Milligan of the 14th of August which I will beg your Excellency’s attention to. “Had the accounts in the American Quarter Master General’s department been delivered in the regular and clear manner which is usually done in publick accounts of great magnitude they would have been attended to with great punctuality and precision which they still shall be, Sir, whenever you please to direct it.”
        In this I clearly give my opinion to Mr Milligan that these accounts were not properly drawn out, that had they so been they would have been attended to with great punctuality and precision and that they still should be whenever he pleased to direct it.
        Thus, Sir, the matter rests and I apprehend it will appear that had Mr Milligan remained at CharlottesVille ten or fourteen days more the perplexed account in question might have been separated and clearly drawn out under the three several heads I have mentioned, that two of them would undoubtedly have been certified after an examination of the Vouchers, that the third would have been regularly and in all the usual forms received, and signed to as an account delivered in by the American Quarter Master General’s department, but could never be positively certified by us, it being a charge arising under a description wherein we had no connection other than the receiving the provisions which the transport forwarded to the Convention Barracks.
        I have made this letter longer than I at first intended, the subject matter naturally drew it into length, and I am sure General Washington’s liberality of mind will make him excuse the trouble it gives—I mean it as no exculpation or vindication of my conduct, but simply as an explanation of a matter which has passed, upon which, as I have heard, is founded the treatment I have received from the American Congress—Whatever is to happen to me in future I have little thought upon, I have little care about, but I beg to assure General Washington

that I acquit him entirely of any intention of treating me with want of liberality, generosity, or honour—I have the greatest personal respect for his private character, and have no doubt of his feeling the injury under which I at present suffer, I really believe, rather more severely than I do myself.
        The letter you have been pleased to write to me relating to exchanges I shall take a liberty of answering from Bethlehem where I shall reside untill my situation is altered by some new arrangement of the American Congress.
        I cannot close this letter without informing Your Excellency of the most perfect attention which Major Skinner has shewed to me, Major General De Riedesel, and our respective families. I have the honour to be, Sir, with great personal respect Your Excellency’s most obedient most humble servant

          W. Phillips


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Phillips, 10 October 1779
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

          Sir.
          Easton in Pensilvania October 10th 1779

        If the Reports be true which circulate relating to me and my being detained from going into New York by the American Congress they assuredly are of such a nature as to put Major General De Reidesel, his lady, and family entirely out of the question under which description I beg leave to address Your Excellency on their account who must be perfectly sensible that no operation of that General Officer can go even to the Examining into accounts, much less the liquidating and settling of them and that were he by my absence or death the Senior

Officer of the Troop⟨s⟩ of Convention he could not order the payment of publick money nor would any certificate he might give be of any avail in publick accounts—Surely then, Sir, there can be no publick reason for detaining Major General De Reidesel and his family from going into New York.
        I will however, Sir, appeal to your humanity in regard to this General Officer, and I will hope that what I have to write upon his Subject will be a means of Your Excellency procuring him a renewal of the permission he had obtained for his going upon his parole into New York.
        Major General De Reidesel has been extremely ill and went to the Berkely Springs with a view of using those waters for his health which, however, had no effect and he continues in such a State of Constitution that a return to Virginia would in my opinion destroy it entirely—I have to add to this that Madame De Reidesel is in a Situation very improper to undertake so long a Journey and nothing but the great satisfaction she felt at going into New York which she imagined so necessary for the General would have made her risk her safety by travelling at this time.
        I can have no doubt of Your obliging interposition in favour of the request I have made for this family.
        As it regards myself I am in perfect health and spirits and trust to a good constitution to preserve the former under every change of Situation it may please the American Congress to direct for me, and I am much deceived if my Spirits will not bear me through any Conduct which that Body may hold in my regard. I have the honour to be, Sir, with much personal Respect, Your Excellency’s most obedient most humble Servant

          W. Phillips


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Phillips, 10 October 1779
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

          Sir.
          Easton in Pensilvania October 10th 1779

        I have been so long without any intercourse with my friends in Europe not having received any letters of any kind from thence since

the British Pacquet of last December that I am very solicitous for procuring those letters which are now at New York, they amount by the intelligence I received from Major General Pattison while at Elizabeth-town to a considerable number with parcels of Magazines and pamphlets—I would request, Sir, if not entirely contrary to Your Excellency’s opinion that my European letters, Magazines, and pamphlets may be sent me in a Box under a certificate to the following purport from the Commandant at New York Major General Pattison. “This Box containing letters and magazines and pamphlets from Europe for Major General Phillips I certify to have no other letters or papers whatever and I declare upon my honour that there is not contained in this Box any letters or papers from Sir Henry Clinton or any Officer or other person at New York or any other part of America.”
        Should this Mode be consistent and agreeable for Your Excellency’s granting I should esteem myself much obliged to you to permit me to have the satisfaction of having this Box conveyed to me at Easton or Bethlehem and that I may have liberty to send a Servant to Elizabethtown for the purport of receiving it there and bringing it to me.
        Should you, Sir, acquiesce in this I will hope you will be so good to make your Orders to the Commandant at Elizabeth-town peremptory for the delivery of the Box to my Servant unopened as I will be free to own to you, Sir, that I expect to receive letters of a private concern which I could not submit to have inspected and unless I can have them under the description I give I would prefer their remaining at New York.
        Your Excellency will confer a particular favour on me by answering this letter so soon as it may be convenient. I have the honour to be, Sir, with much personal respect Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant

          W. Phillips


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 10 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West Point 10: October 1779

        I find, upon recurring to my letter of the 7th to your Excellency, that I was not sufficiently explicit in answering that part of yours of the 2d instant, in which you desire to know, whether, in my opinion, the Militia at present on duty on the Coast may be safely withdrawn from thence in case of the expected operations, and be considered as part of the 4000 demanded of the State. They undoubtedly may under such circumstances, because the enemy must, during the course of the operations, be confined to the defensive only, and that, upon

a very contracted plan. The troops that are already drawn out, and upon the Coast, may remain at their present stations till more particularly called for. I only wish that they may be formed into proper sized Regiments—compleatly officered, and in every respect ready to march at a moments warning, and that a return may be made to me specifying the Corps—their Stations, and the Officers upon whom I may call to march and join the Army when necessary. Those wanting to compleat the number of 4000 may rendezvous at Seabrook and Stratford as requested in mine of the 4th Inst. or join those now on the Coast as you shall judge best.
        I must beg your attention to that part of mine of the 4th which respects the time of service of the Militia now required. perhaps that, of those of whom we have been speaking, (except Colo. Meade and Colo. Wells’s Regiments) may expire before the stipulated time. If so, they must either be engaged anew, or others must be prepared to releive them upon the Ground, as the deficiency of so large a number, at a critical Moment, might be fatal to the whole plan of operations. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem Yr Excellency’s Most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 10 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West Point [10]th Octobr 1779.

        I have your favr of yesterday inclosing a sketch of the bearings and distances of the Grounds contiguous to Stoney point. It is not to our Interest to disturb the enemy at that or any other detached post just now. Under present circumstances we should endeavour to keep them as much separated as possible, for if part of my plan, recommended to the Count, can be carried into execution, we shall put it out of the power of the detachments to join the main Body. I would therefore wish that [they] may be lulled into security, rather than alarmed.

A small time will determine whether those posts or a greater object shall engage our attention.
        Be pleased to let some Gentlemen who are proper judges, view the Ground between Springsteels and the point of the Dunderberg opposite Peeks Kill, and determine whether it will admit of a Road for Carriages out of reach of the fire from shipping. I am with great Regard Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 11 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Moores-House [West Point]Monday Octr 11th 1779.
            Parole Saratoga—  C. Signs Tadmor Ulster.

          John McDonald of Colonel James Livingston’s regiment was tried on the 9th instant at the General Court Martial whereof Colonel Starr is President for “Desertion” found guilty & sentenced to receive one hundred lashes well laid on upon his bare back.
          The General confirms the sentence and orders it to be put into execution tomorrow morning at guard mounting.

          After Orders October 11th
          At the General Court Martial whereof Colonel Starr is President, Major McCormic was tried on the 7th instant, for “Wantonly illtreating and abusing sundry inhabitants in their own houses on the night of the 19th of September and wounding a child of the Widow Garrison’s with a sword.”
          The Court having considered the nature of the charge exhibited against Major McCormic with the evidence offered in support thereof and his defence with the evidence offered in his behalf, do judge that he is not guilty of the charge exhibited against him and do think that he acted as a judicious and good officer.

          The Commander in Chief confirms the opinion of the Court. Major McCormic is released from Arrest.


Title: To George Washington from Jeremiah Wadsworth, 11 October 1779
From: Wadsworth, Jeremiah
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Murderers Creek [N.Y.] Octo. 11: 1779

        I have your Excellencys letter of the 9th respecting rum and hard Bread⟨.⟩ The Issuing Comisarys return of this day will inform you what quantity of each are on hand. I have about one hundred Hhds of rum on this side Boston not in this return. I have applied to Congress for their Prize Rum at Boston which I expect they will order to this army and that it will give us a full supply. Very little hard Bread can be baked here & if baked it cannot be transported by Land without great Loss which our scanty supplies of flour will not bear.
        I am informed the Agent for the marine of France has made very considerable demands on Congress for supplies, but am not yet favored with the particulars, but conclude Congress have taken measures to have the demand satisfied. I expect momently to have particular intelligence respecting the circumstances of my department from Philadelphia and will immediatly communicate them to your Excy. I am &c.

          Jere. Wadsworth


Title: General Orders, 12 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]Tuesday Octr 12th 1779.
          Parole Tartary—  C. Signs Uxbridge Woodbridge.

        Such officers of the line whose duty it is to act on foot in time of an engagement and who are not already provided with Espontoons are to use their utmost exertions to get them, and it is expected from commanding officers of Corps that they will use every means in their power to complete them with bayonets; In a word, they will take care that their corps are in the most perfect order for actual service.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 12 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

          Gentlemen
          Head Quarters West Point 12th October 1779

        On the 2d instant I addressed you particularly on the subject of the want of shoes, and informed you that I had made application to Mess[r]s Mehelm—Hatfeild—and Starr the three nearest Commissaries of Hides, and desired to know what quantity of shoes I might depend upon immediately, and what were their future prospects. I have only recd answers from Mr Mehelm and Capt. Starr—Copies of whose letters you have inclosed—By these you will perceive, that the quantities, which they can engage to furnish between this and the latter end of November, are most trifling, in comparison with what we may reasonably suppose will be the wants of the Army. Should Mr Hatfeild and Mr Henry of Lancaster return accounts, not more promising, the Army must be again reduced to a miserable situation for want of Shoes. Indeed should we be called upon to move tomorrow, I beleive I may say without exaggeration that we should lose the service of one third of the Men who could not march from this Ground, unless bare footed. and we may expect that the troops under General Sullivan will be in a similar condition. This is a matter of so

important a nature, that I hope the Board will excuse me for mentioning it again; and more especially when I add that I am perfectly convinced they have taken every measure in their power to procure supplies and that they will leave nothing untried to effect it. It is however to be regretted that the moment we attempt to introduce System in this business, that our supplies become scanty and uncertain.
        Inclosed you have the Return of Captain posts Company of Artillery Artificers agreeable to Resolve of Congress of 15th March last.
        Upon the repeated applications of the Officers of the Massachusetts line for their Commissions, I must request the Board will transmit them as speedily as possible. I have the honor &c.


Title: To George Washington from the Massachusetts Council, 12 October 1779
From: Massachusetts Council
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          State of Mass. Bay In Council Octr 12 1779

        your Excellencys Letter of the 4th of October to the Council of this State was duly received, and immediately laid before the General Assembly which fortunately happened to be then sitting. The Assembly have chearfully complid with your Requisition and accordingly orderd two thousand Men to be raisd with all possible Dispatch for the Purpose mentiond. The Council have appointed Brigr General

Fellows to take the Command. Inclosd is Copy of the Resolution of the General Assembly. Wishing that Success may ever attend the Arms of the United States & their Ally, I am in the Name & Behalf of the Council Yr Excellencys most obedient humble Servant.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Peter Muhlenberg, 12 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Muhlenberg, Peter

          D. Sir
          West point October the 12. 1779

        I have received your Letter of the 6th Instant. As some late Regulations have taken place with respect to the Hide department and for furnishing the Army in general with Shoes on a systematic plan—I cannot authorise a deviation from them, and the Shoe makers you mention must be recalled, when the time expires for which they were engaged with Mr Taylor. I am pressing by repeated Letters every person concerned in the Shoe business to forward supplies. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt sert

          G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Phillips, 12 October 1779
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Bethlehem [Pa.] 12th October 1779.

        I enclose the Copies of two papers which will inform your Excellency by what means Lieutenant Smith of the British Artillery and Captain de Guismere of the Hesse Hanau Regiment are arrived at this place in their way to New York.
        I am apprehensive the same reasons which detain me here will also prevent those Officers from going forward, and as I have a number of papers here with me relating to the business of the Troops of Convention with the publick offices in Canada I will venture to request, if it be impossible for an Officer to be permitted to go, that a private man as a messenger from me may be allowed to carry my dispatches by the Lakes to Canada and he may, under your Excellency’s permission, proceed to your Head Quarters where his papers may be examined and he may obtain the necessary passports for his going forward, I would wish he might be allowed to return to me at whatever place of destination I may be.
        I should not be thus solicitous of sending to Canada but that there are a number of Contracts and private accounts unsettled to the great injury of individuals. I have the honour to be, Sir, with great personal respect Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant

          W. Phillips


Title: From George Washington to Philip Schuyler, 12 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 12th Octobr 1779

        Your favor of the 6th which reached me yesterday, gives me hopes of the pleasure of seeing you in a day or two.
        General Sullivan must from his situation have been totally unacquainted with the circumstances of the Mohawks families at the lower Castle, his motive undoubtedly was to remove a set of people who, he had reason to beleive, were unfreindly and dangerous. But as the public faith has been pledged for their remaining there unmolested, and you say good consequences have resulted to the neighbourhood from the measure hitherto, I see no objection to their being suffered to return home again—I will inform Genl Sullivan, upon his return, of the reasons which induced the superseding his orders to Colo. Gansevoort. As to the other point—The treaty with the Cayugas—I can only give my private opinion, which coincides with yours, so far as it respects the policy of making a general peace with them and the other Indians of the Six Nations—But as to particular terms I think it will be proper for you and the Gentlemen in the Commission to take the directions of Congress, should they incline to an accomodation When I have the pleasure of seeing you we can talk over this

matter more at large. I am with the greatest Regard Dear Sir Yours sincerely.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Woodford, 12 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Woodford, William

          Dr Sir.
          Head Quarters—West-point [12 Oct. 1779]

        I have received your favor of the 11th.
        It appears to me that your present position is such as to afford a proper support to the infantry, and preserve at the same time some relation to the succour of this post. These were the two principal objects we had in view. A more remote one was the prevention of the enemy’s retreat by land from Stoney point, should any circumstances compel them to this measure. You will however have advice from General Wayne or in some other manner when this should become the chief object of your attention. At present you will take no notice of the matter. Tho’ the event is wholly uncertain it should nevertheless be kept secret. I am Dr Sir

          G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Theodorick Bland, 13 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Bland, Theodorick

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 13th Octbr 1779.

        I have been favored with your letters of the 22d & 23 of last month with their several inclosures, a few days since.
        The means you have used to prevent the desertions of the Convention troops, and to recover such as had made their escape, ⟨are⟩ perfectly agreeable: and I am glad your attention has checked a practice attended with so very few advantages. In your late transaction with Major General Philips, I cannot but approve the spirit of your conduct.
        It is to be hoped from the system which you have established at Charlottes ville, that in future less application will be necessary for the discharge of its several duties; and that you will have more leisure to attend to the re-establishment of your health. Should you be of opinion, that the command can be properly executed, by any officer now present, I shall have no objection to your retiring for some time for the purpose of health and relaxation. In this case, I wish you to give such instructions as may obviate any inconveniencies that may be likely to arise in your absence. If you could visit it, in the intermediate time, it would be still more likely to continue things, in the good order which you have established.
        With respect to your resignation, if you are determined on the step—I must refer you to Congress. Were I to speak my wishes on the occasion, they would be for your remaining in the service.
        I have considered the application from the German Pastor, but do

not think it expedient at this time to indulge him in his request. If he prefers America, with a little patience, he may have it in his power to settle to advantage. I am Dr Sir your obedient and most hble servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 13 October 1779
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          War Office [Philadelphia] October 13th 1779

        We have been honoured with your Letter of the 8th and have communicated to Mr Murray and Major Stein the mode of procuring the Exchange of the latter for Major Murray as pointed out by your Excellency and which we think very just and right both as to the Thing itself and the manner of conducting it.
        We will enquire into the Numbers of Men of the marching Regiments detained as Artificers. These Men were generally taken out of the Hospitals—convalescent and moderate Labour with its Emoluments has been of Service to them and the public. Many of them are encumbred with large Families out of pity to whom they were indulged with Liberty of working here. We have not heard of many complaints as to their Morals or Conduct. When we do we send off the Delinque[n]t to Camp. The Numbers we believe are not so great as are imagin’d. They are all in our Opinion very Usefully employ’d in repairing arms, making Cartouch Boxes &c: nor can we tell how to replace them if sent away. We are extremely averse to weakning the Line by employing the Soldiers and we know it is disagreeable to the Officers to have their Commands interfered with. But with all we can hire and all we have in every Capacity it is with the utmost Difficulty the Supplies can be prepared. We cannot too avoid saying that we wish in the bulky Catalogue of those in the several Regiments returned on Command all were as Usefully employed as the few Artificers detained by our Orders and whose Numbers we believe do not amount to twenty five from the whole Army. This Observation arises

in our Minds from the Multitudes of Soldiers (among others) we constantly perceive brought from Camp as Servants not only by Officers in the Line of every Rank but also by many on the Staff. Whether this Inconvenience is not too deep rooted to remedy we are doubtful. We are conscious that your Excellency has done every thing to check and modify it that depen[d]ed on you: And we only mention it as we know that while these practices have been pass’d over by Officers in Silence much more than was Necessary has been said as to the few Artificers detained by our Order some of whom have been maltreated and confined as Deserters tho’ our Order for their Detention was shewn to the Officers. This is one among other Disagreemen[t]s we have pass’d over for the sake of Peace. We will send of the least Useful of the Men now working here and if Possible the whole. But we are and shall be much embarras’d to get the preparations for the present Occasion in any Forwardness with all the Men and all the Exertions in our Power.
        We agree with your Excellency as to the Propriety of having all the Issues of Clothing pass under the Notice of the Clothier General. The Disorders of former Transactions convince us of the Necessity of this Regulation which we have been aiming to establish for along time past. But Officers in Command at Posts and on Detachments must join in the plan for it has been too much the case that Articles have been taken when wanted and at Hand without reguarding a general Justice due to the whole, and hereby some Troops have been amply clad while others were totally Destitute. There are however Exceptions to any General Rule which can be formed and then must be left to Discretion. We have given no Orders about Issues to any purchasing Agents except in some special levies; but we find it was practiced by those at a distance and in many Instances in our Opinion improperly. But the Importunities of some and the pointed Commands of others were difficult to be resisted. In some Cases however we have perceived the Issues were indispensible tho’ attended with the Inconveniences of Want of Regularity. We have Observed too generally that let the System be what it will many of the persons to execute it will rather do irregul⟨ar⟩ Things than resist Importunity or rigid Commands.
        We will assist Mr Wilkinson in procuring all the orders for Cloathing given by us (which are as few as possible as we have generally ordered the Articles to be sent to Camp for Distribution) and shall be happy in reducing to order a Department for which large Supplies have been provided & which from their Manner of Distribution have not been so Serviceable as could have been wished. We have the honour to be with the greatest respect and Esteem Your very Obedt Servants

          Richard PetersBy Order


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 13 October 1779
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Providence, 13th October 1779.Eight o’Clock in the morning

        I have the Honor to send Your Excellency a Letter I received Yesterday from Lieut: Colonel Olney. The intelligence it contains, is strongly marked with The Enemy’s intention to evacuate Rhode-Island. I am endeavouring by all possible means to discover if that be

their real design. I have the best look out, as well upon the water, as the Land; and have even some Friends upon the Island, who will give me the earliest Information in their power. An Express shall instantly Convey to your Excellency every extraordinary movement of the Enemy. I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s most Obedient Hume Servt

          Horatio Gates

          P.S. I have no Letter from Yr Exy, since that of the 3d Instant.


Title: To George Washington from George Mercer, 13 October 1779
From: Mercer, George
To: Washington, George

          My dear General
          Paris October 13th 1779

        Although the distinguished and honourable Character in which Mr Izard has been employed by his Country, will of Course recommend him to your Excellency; yet as I have had the Honour of his Acquaintance for many Years, and know his Character as a private Gentleman to be in every Respect virtuous and commendable, I take the Liberty to present him to your Excellency, and to assure you it is from sixteen Years Experience I can say Mr Izard is an honest Man, a patriotic sensible worthy Member of Society, and a firm sincere and valuable Friend. If Mr Izard should have the Honour to see you, you will find dear Sir he deserves more than I have said of him; and I am thoroughly convinced you will be happy to take him by the Hand, and to shew him the Regard due to his Merit. I have the Honour to be, with great Respect, and the most perfect Attachment Your Excellency’s Much obliged Friend and Most obedient Servant.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 13 October 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Light Infantry CampHeights of Haverstraw [N.Y.]13th Octr 1779

        In Obedience to your Orders of the   Instant I directed Colonels Putnam & Butler to Reconnoitre the Ground from this Camp by Spring Steels to the point of the Dunderberg opposite picks Kill—who Report that a very good road may be made with little trouble from Spring Stells to a Landing about two Miles & a half in a Direct Line above Stoney Point where a Battery may be Immediately Errect[ed] so as to Effectuall[y] to ⟨Cover⟩ the Landing from any fear from Shipping but from thence to the point of the Dunderberg Opposite Peeks kill, is Impracticable for either man or Horse—& will not admit of any road if you should think that the part which they Report practicable advisable to repair I will Order it Immediately to be executed—as it wants nothing more tha[n] cutting a few logs out of the roads already opened & mending two or three cause ways.
        a few Ships & other Vessels made their Appearance yesterday in the lower end of Haverstraw bay & two large transport came up to Stoney point in the Evening—I have sent down to try to Discover whether they have brought a Reinforcement, ⟨to⟩ the Garrison—or—preparing for an Evacuation—In either case you may Depend upon the Earliest Intelligence. I am your Excellancey’s Most Obt & very Hume Sevt

          Anty Wayne


Title: General Orders, 14 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]Thursday Octr 14th 1779.
          Parole Wabash—  C. Signs Yarmouth. Zell.

        As many soldiers who have lately joined the Army have not been sufficiently taught the first principles of the exercise; The troops will every afternoon exercise in detail and the officers must take particular care in instructing their men; The exercise by battalions to continue every morning as before.
        Such officers as are not furnished with Espontoons are to apply immediately through the Brigade Quarter-Masters to the Quarter-Master General for a supply.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 14 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West Point 14th Octobr 1779

        I recd your favr of this date with the two prisoners of War. I shall put them into the hands of the Commy of prisoners who makes frequent exchanges of the few privates of ours now of days in the possession of the enemy, by which means Colo. Sheldons Men will probably soon regain their liberty in the regular way. You will be pleased to furnish Capt. Lequaw’s Company with provision and Ammunition while in service. I am Dear Sir Yr &c.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 14 October 1779
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Philadelphia Octor 14th 1779

        I am honoured with your Excellency’s favours of the 7th & 9th Instant with their Several enclosures.
        By the Act of Congress of this day herewith enclosd you will receive their Thanks for directing the important Expedition which hath been so Effectually executed by Genl Sullivan & the Brave Officers & Soldiers under his Command.
        Be assured Sir it is with pleasure I have the honour of Communicating to your Excellency the Continued approbation & Thanks of Congress on account of your eminent & unremitting Services in the Cause of your Country, And that I am with the highest Sentiments of Esteem and regard your humble Servt

          Saml Huntington President


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 14 October 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

          My dear Sir
          Ph[iladelphi]a 14th Octr 1779

        Your very kind Letter of the 7 instant gave me all that Pleasure, which accompanies marks of cordial Esteem & attachmt from those whose Commendation is Praise and whose Friendship is discriminate.
        Among the Objects of my Mission are some, which however just, will not be easily attain’d and therefore its Success will be precarious & probably partial. The only Satisfaction I promise myself from this

appointmt will flow from the Rectitude with which the Duties of it will be discharged, & not from a Prospect of general approbation.
        God grant that the time may not be far distant when Peace & Liberty shall lead you from the Field to enjoy in Silence & Retiremt the Luxury of reflecting that you had saved your Country. Adieu my Dear Sir with sincere affection & Esteem I am your friend & servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 14 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

          Dr Sir.
          Head Quarters West-point 14th Octbr 1779.

        I received your favor of the 11th instant yesterday evening.
        We have not yet been able to ascertain how far the Count means to extend his co-operations; nor have we learned the event of his visit to the Southward. We expect however very interesting news every day, from this quarter—Till we can know something more definitive respecting his designs, it will be unnecessary to harrass your troops by overfatiguing marches. Their want of several articles of clothing, particularly of shoes, must make some little respite very agreeable. I would wish you therefore to hault them at Easton, at least till you can bring up the rear and the baggage; when you will be pleased to proceed by easy marches to the main army unless we should find it expedient to precipitate the junction, of which I shall give you the earliest advice. I am Dr Sir Your most obedient and hble servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 14 October 1779
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

          Dr Sir
          Hartford—14th Octo. 1779

        Your Favors of the 4th 7th & 10th are duly arrived—Inclosed you will have our Doings respecting the Militia desired from this State—which are not yet carried into compleat Effect—waitg some further Intelligence from the Count’s Fleet—Respectg your Excellency’s Request for Powder—there is considerable Quantity in the State—I this Day meet my Assembly in this Place—& by their Direction I fancy—you may be supplied with 10 or 15 Tons if needed—I must beg the Earliest Intelligence from your Excellency of your Expectations from

the Fleet—where our utmost Exertions may be depended on as soon as our Cooperation becomes necessary. I am &ca

          Jnt——ll


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 14 October 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Heights of Haverstraw [N.Y.] 14th Octr 1779.

        The appearance of the number of Vessels in Haverstraw Bay was a little exaggerated—there is not the least sign of an alteration in the Garrison except that they are employed in erecting a Magazine.
        had not your Excellency given a hint that you wished to lull, rathar than alarm the Enemy, I should have been tempted (since the arrival of the Virginia Line) to have asked for the Artillery I mentioned—which I have ground to believe we shou’d have used with effect—or Obliged the Enemy Immediately to move up in force & Relinquish every Other Operation—without injuring us but very little.
        Genl Woodford has taken post near Smiths tavern about three miles On my right & one Mile in the Rear of Kakeate Meeting-house—our

present position gives us perfect Security but against very Superior Numbers, & in that case, we have a safe Retreat.
        Colonel Putnam Applied to me last Evening for a field Officer to his Regiment, in place of Major Murfee—he wishes for Lieut. Colo. Vose of Colo. Vose’s Regiment—of whom he spekes highly—and says that he is anxious to join us—at present Colo. Putnam has no field Officer to his Regt but himself—Major Hull being long absent in sick Quarters.
        a few Artificers—i.e. wheelsrights & Armourers with their tools are Absolutely necessary to be annexed to this Corps—also a Conductor—we have been without one ever since the Reduction of Stoney Point—an Amunition Waggon for his Stores is much Wanted—will your Excellency please to give the necessary Orders.
        Enclosed is the only Sketch I have of Stoney Point—I have taken a good deal of pains & at some risque to determin the Respective Lines of fire as Delineated on the plan.


Title: To George Washington from John Armstrong, Sr., 15 October 1779
From: Armstrong, John Sr.
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Philada 15th Octobr 1779

        The Counts expected approach to these Shores begins to be thought tedious, but the lodgment of the Enemy to the South being in two places considerably distant from each other, I’m persuaded no time has yet elapsed wherein we cou’d reasonably look for an Official account of that event. A letter from Hampdon of the 9th Inst. asserts the certainty of a compleat Capture of Provosts Army & various Vessels &c. which however donoted by many I’m inclined to think favourably of, as our late Southerly winds might give a quick passage to that intelligence.
        You know Sir that the present moment however premature will create military Speculation—Some that a great Post or two will fall, others that it’s impossible otherwise than by Starving, or at least that the Sacrifice must be too great—Again—the attack must be general and uniform by Land & Water &c. &c.—I dare not with so imperfect knowledge of the situation &c. form an Idea of either a general or particular Rule in a great effort, but pray god to form & determine for you, but confess the Idea of piece-male work Strikes me as naturally as any other, that is the Operation of the Fleet upon that of the Enemies—first removing out of the way Such batterries as may be practicable & by which the inbound passage of the Shiping may be much Obstructed—So much for guess work. A Sufficient Supply of Provision, and ammunition are important points, the former very clearly and Seasonably pointed out by your Excellency which from the distance and Small Stock on hand requires faithfull attention—I am much pleased that Governor Ried will command his Own Militia.
        It has not been in my power with any degree of facility, yet to get on the farther Subsistance for the General Officers of the Army, but a good foundation is laid for it, and a Short time will bring it on I hope to their Satisfaction without the necessity of a memorial—A farther provision for the Surgeons of the Hospital, has been already committed and will probably soon be reported. Mr Gerard & Mr Jay sets out in two or three days—preparations for foreign Courts & the revision of Some points formerly determined, has of late much engrossed the attention of Congress, in which I cannot but apprehend that rather hard measure has fallen to the Lot of Dr Lee. The Late appointment of Mr John Adams may Serve as a Spunge to wipe of[f] the Stain of culpable neglect—a tryal this Sufficient in my Opinion to all that gentlemans gravity and plain brown hair—Permit me to recommend to the honor of yr Excellencies acquaintance my good hibernian friend Doctor Shiell, and thro’ your farther polite offices

to the General Officers of the Pennsylvania Line, to whom at present I cannot write—The Doctor is a young Gentleman of liberal Sentiments & education possessed of a handsome fortune a warm Whigg & a man of Sense. I am now leaving Congress having exerted the last dregs of any remaining talent I had under various impediments—Finance, (for which I never had any talent) is the only present ghost that Stares every honest man in the face—Taxation, altho’ the radical means of appreciation as well as of the payment of publick debt, is a remedy too remote for our support⟨—⟩the disease has ran too long to be overtaken by any common cure. A general regulation of prices by Law is said to be impracticable—I have therefore wished to throw out some higher inducement to money holders on lone than any yet offered rather than the Ship Shou’d get aground, but a large majority thought the present offers Sufficient to procure all we shou’d want untill supplyed by Tax—the expectation is futile & without political foundation—I presume however that some new push will be made for a foreign Loan. retrenchmt of expences is in it’s place highly necessary & Sooner or later a great Share of the burthen of such a plan is likely to fall upon you, which rather ought to be done by others. I shall take the liberty of amusing you a moment in reading the inclosed, only because it is the clearest account of the occasions of the late misfortune at Ponobscot that has yet reached this place, and as likely to be true. Major Armstrong on that occasion has been indulging young ambition in following that Army I suppose with Jacksons Regimt and probably without the approbation of Genl Gates, until the wiser winds corrected the error. I am with perfect respect & every wish for your Safety & Success—Your Excellencys Most Obedient humbe Servt

          John Armstrong

          I had the pleasure of your Obligeing letter, and perfectly Satisfied with [what] you Say on the Subject in Berkley.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 15 October 1779
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Providence, October 15th 1779.

        My intelligence from all Quarters, & Reports from all Stations, Announce the Enemy are preparing to Evacuate Newport; Monday, or Tuesday, it is imagined they will take their Departure; a Deserter from the 22nd Regt Mortally Wounded, but rescued by a party of Our

Soldiers, declares the whole of The Troops now on Rhode-Island, are Bound to the West Indies; this may be, but I believe they will first Visit New York.
        Inclosed I have the Honor to send Your Excellency, a Letter from Mrs Harnage; the case of this Lady is truly distressing, as she has a small family of Children in Europe, & an Infant just born. Majr Gardner also presses my Advocation with Your Excelly in his favor. He has sold his Commission, and the payment, or deposite, of the purchase Money, depends upon an Officer who is upon Service, & should he die, or be killed, before Majr Gardner is paid, his Family would be in a Manner undone. I have not the smallest doubt but Sr Harry Clinton will Comply with any Engagement The Major may make with us, as I understand he much befriends both him, & the person purchasing his Commission; & though with respect to us, Major Gardner is an Officer of Rank, with respect to the Enemy he is merely a Citizen.
        The Instant Rhode-Island is Evacuated, I shall see it Garrisoned by the Militia, & Artillery belonging to the State; & proceed immediately with All the Continental, & State Troops to Hartford, where, If not before, I shall receive Your Excelly’s Commands. I hear nothing of Count D’Estaing since your Excelly’s Letter of 3rd Inst. I am, Sir, Your most Obed. & most hume Servt

          H.G.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 15 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 15th Octbr 1779.

        I have been duly favored with your Excellency’s letter of yesterdays date, and thank you for your ready attention to my requisitions.
        The moment I receive the intelligence from the Count which is to determine our operations or how far the assistance of the Country will be necessary to carry them into execution, I shall do myself the honor to give you the earliest advice. I wait anxiously for this communication, for as your Excellency observes the season is coming upon us very fast.
        I congratulate you on the success of our Western expedition. Every thing is completely destroyed in the Country of the hostile Indians, and the whole undertaking finished with the most inconsiderable loss. The army under General Sullivan I expect, is, by this time at Easton, on its march to this place. I have the honor to be, with the greatest regard your Excellency’s most obt servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 15 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dr Sir,
          Head Quarters West Point Octor 15th 1779

        I received last night your favor of the 14th and am glad to find you have got so good and secure a position.
        The Carolina Troops have returned and Major Murfree will resume his command in the Infantry. This circumstance makes it unnecessary for Lt Colo. Vose or any other Field Officer to be sent down.
        I will give orders for the Artificers and Tools you mention—& for a conductor and Ammunition Waggon. I have received no farther advices as yet of Count D’Estaing or with respect to his Southern operations, and am anxiously waiting for them. I am Dr Sr With great regard & esteem Yr Most Obet servt

          Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 16 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]Saturday Octr 16th 1779.
          Parole Bennington—  C. Signs Colchester. Danvers.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 16 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

          Sir
          Head Quarters West point 16th October 1779

        I have been duly honored with yours of the 8th 11th and 13th instants, which I deferred answering immediately, as I have been in hourly expectation of receiving accounts from the southward which would inform me with certainty of the event of Count D’Estaings operations in that quarter and whether, and when he might be reasonably expected in this: But I have not received a Syllable since mine of the 3d.
        It gives me pleasure to hear of the forwardness of your preparations either for a cooperation with this Army, or an attempt upon Rhode Island. In either case, I shall most assuredly, in concerting measures, consult the honor and interest of the public, and of consequence that of the Officers employed in the enterprize.
        My late accounts from New York speak of the probability of the evacuation of Rhode Island, although my latest and best informant does not mention it as a thing fully determined upon. But I think the arrival of the number of Vessels, in Ballast only, mentioned in yours of the 13th indicates at least an intention of holding themselves ready to effect it if necessary.
        I have the pleasure to inform you that the Army under the command of General Sullivan arrived safe and in perfect health at Wyoming on the 7th after having fully compleated the destruction of the whole Country of the six Nations; the Indians of which must be thrown this Winter upon the Magazines of Canada for subsistance, which I imagine will not be a little distressing, as they were unprepared and probably unprovided for such an event—The Army was to

leave Wyoming the 10th and I suppose are before this at Easton, being in full march to form a junction with the troops under my immediate command.
        I have just recd a letter from Colonel Broadhead dated the 16th day of Sepr at Fort Pitt. He had returned from an expedition against the hostile Indian tribes on the Alleghany River, up which he proceeded about 180 Miles, and destroyed nearly all the settlements in that quarter without the loss of a Man—This in a great measure compleats the destruction not only of the Country of the Six Nations but of their Allies on the heads of the Alleghany River. I am with great Respect Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Massachusetts Council, 16 October 1779
From: Massachusetts Council
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          State of Massachusetts Bay Council Chamber Octor 16. 1779

        Your Excellencies Letter of the Seventh Current was duly delivered, and the contents noted. In answer thereto I am dir[ec]ted to inform you that, the Council have ordered one hundred barrels of Gun Powder to be delivered to the Deputy Quartermaster General in this department; to be by him forwarded to your Excellency without loss of time. That quantity being the whole that, the Council thought themselves warrented to spare at this time. As to Tents the Council have not any on hand; they having heretofore supplyed the Continent with all they had; and have not been able to procure materials to replace them since.

        The Boatmen which your Excellency desired the Council to Engage they have not been able to procure one, upon the incouragement given in your letter. Application was immediately made to some sutable persons for officers, to endeavour to Engage the number requested who manifested their readiness to engage in the service Provided they could obtain the men. They have made trial but altogether without success and inform the Council it is to no purpose to endeavour to procure Boatmen upon the encouragement offered; for there is not the least probability of obtaining one man. The Council would have been happy had it been in their power to comply with your requisitions in every particular, but it is not. The Council are informed by mr Otis that, he is in expectation of furnishing the Quartermaster General, with fifteen hundred Tents and that apart of them are no⟨w⟩ on the way to Camp, that they hope the Quartermaster department will not meet with any embarresment on account of Tents, altho they have not been able to supply them. I am with Sentiments of Esteem On Behalf of the Council your Excellencies Obedient Humble Servant.


Title: From George Washington to Juan de Miralles, 16 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Miralles, Don Juan de

          Sir
          West-point Octr 16th 1779

        I was honored with your friendly letter of the 2d of last month.
        Nothing could be more acceptable than your present, but the manner in which it was bestowed. This enhanced its value, because it encreased our esteem. I can only send you from this quarter, in return, what you have long had, my very sincere friendship.
        The intelligence you have been pleased to intrust me with is very agreeable. except that part which relates the loss of yr dispatches—for this I am concerned—I promise myself the most happy events from the known spirit of your nation: United with the arms of France, we have every thing to hope over the arms of our common enemy the

English. I shall not fail to inform Mrs Washington of the obligation she is under for your polite attention to & remembrance [of] her. I am sure she will receive your complimts (which I shall make a tender of in my next letter) with gratitude & pleasure as you stand high in her estimation. I have the honor to be with the most perfect respect and greatest perso[na]l regard, your most obt and obliged hble sert.


Title: From George Washington to Moses Hatfield, 17 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Hatfield, Moses

          Sir
          Head Quarters West Point 17th Octobr 1779

        I wrote to you on the 2d instant requesting to know what quantity of shoes you had upon hand and what you were likely to supply. Having recd no answer I am apprehensive that the letter never reached you—I have since recd a letter from the Board of War, desiring me to see you upon several matters relating to your department. You will therefore be pleased immediately upon the rect of this to come down to Head Quarters. The Business is pressing and important and for that reason I beg you will not delay. I am Sir Your most obt.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 17 October 1779
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Philadelphia Octor 17th 1779

        You will herewith receive enclosd a Memorial from two Officers Stediford & Bicker which Congress have referd to the Commander in Chief. I am Sir with the greatest Respect your Exys humble Servant

          Saml Huntington President


Title: From George Washington to John Mitchell, 17 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Mitchell, John

          Dear Sir,
          West point Octr 17th 1779.

        As I do not at this time know where my Winter Quarters will be, or when I shall get into them. As I have little prospect of seeing my own home this Winter & Mrs Washington desirous of coming to me before the Roads get bad & weather severe—I shall be obliged to you for enquiring & informing me if she can hire lodgings in some genteel

(but not a common[)] boarding house in Phila. till I know where I shall be fixed for the Winter. Your answer to this letter so soon as you can have made the necessary enquiry will be thankfully received. My Complimts attend Mrs Mitchell. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: Instructions to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 17 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

          [West Point, 17 Oct. 1779]

        C——Junr to remain in the City, to collect all the useful information he can—to do this, he should mix as much as possible among the Officers and Refugees, visit the Coffee Houses and all public places. He is to pay particular attention to the movements by land and Water in and about the City—especially—
        How their transports are secured against an attempt to destroy them—whether by armed Vessels upon the flanks—or by Chains, Booms or any contrivances to keep off fire Rafts.
        The number of Men destined for the defence of the City and Environs, endeavouring to designate the particular Corps and where each is posted.
        To be particular in describing the place where the Works cross the Island in the Rear of the City—how many Redoubts are upon the line from River to River—how many Cannon in each and of what weight, and whether the Redoubts are closed or open next the City.
        Whether there are any Works upon the Island of New York between those nea⟨r⟩ the City and the Works at Fort Knyphausen or Washington, and if any, where abouts and of wha⟨t⟩ kind.
        To be very particular in finding out whether any Works are thrown up on Harlem River near Harlem Town. And whether Horn⟨s⟩ Hook is fortifyed. If so, how many Men are kept at each place, and what number and what sized Cannon are in those Works.
        To enquire whether they have dug Pits within and in front of the lines and Works in general, three or four feet deep, in which sharp

pointed stakes are fixed. These are intended to receive and wound Men who attempt a surprise at Night.
        The state of provision, Forage and Fuel to be attended to as also the Health and Spirits of the Army, Navy and City.
        These are the principal matters to be observed within the Island and about the City of New York. Many more may occur to a person of C——junr penetration, which he will note and communicate.
        C——seniors Station to be upon Long Island to receive and transmit the intelligence of C——junior.
        As it is imagined, that the only post of consequence, which the enemy will attempt to hold upon Long Island in case of attack, will be at Brooklyn. I would recommend that some inhabitant in the neighbourhood of that place, and seemingly in the interest of the enemy, should be procured, who might probably gain daily admission into the Garrison by carrying in marketting, and from him, intelligence might be gained every day or two of what was passing within—As the strength of the Garrison—the number and size of Cannon &ca.
        proper persons to be procured, at convenient distances along the sound from Brooklyn to Newtown, whose Business it shall be to observe and Report what is passing upon the Water—As, whether any Vessels or Boats with troops are moving—their number and which way they seem bound.
        There can be scarce any need of recommending the greatest caution and secrecy in a Business so critical and dangerous—the following seem to be the best general Rules.
        To intrust none but the persons fixed upon to transact the Business.
        To deliver the dispatches to none upon our side but those who shall be pitched upon for the purpose of receiving them.
        And to transmit them and any verbal intelligence that may be obtained to no one but the Commander in Chief.


Title: General Orders, 18 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Moores-House [West Point]Monday Octr 18th 1779.
            Parole Sullivan—  C. Signs Success. Seneca—

          The Commander in Chief is happy in the opportunity of congratulating the Army on our further successes—By advices just received, Colonel Brodhead with the Continental troops under his command and a body of Militia and Volunteers has penetrated about one hundred and eighty miles into the Indian Country lying on the Allegany River—burnt 10 of the Muncy and Seneca towns in that quarter containing 165 houses—destroyed all their fields of corn, computed to comprehend 500 acres besides large quantities of vegetables—obliging the savages to flee before him with the greatest precipitation & to leave behind them many skins and other Articles of value—The only opposition the savages ventured to give our troops on this occasion was near Cuscushing: About 40 of their Warriors on their way to commit barbarities on our frontier settlers were met here by Lieutt Hardin of the 8th Pennsylvania regiment at the head of one of our advanced parties composed of 23 men, of which 8 were of our friends of the Delaware Nation, who immediately attacked the savages and put

them to the route with the loss of five killed on the spot, and of all their Canoes, blankets, shirts and provisions of which as is usual for them when going into action, they had divested themselves, and also of several arms—Two of our men and one of our Delaware friends were very slightly wounded in the action which was the only damage we sustained in the whole enterprise.
          The Activity, Perseverance and Firmness which marked the conduct of Colonel Brodhead and that of all the officers and men of every description in the expedition do them great honor, and their services fully intitle them to the thanks and to this testimonial of the General’s acknowledgments.

          Special Orders.
          Captain Seldon of the Light-Infantry being recovered of the wound he received in the assault of Stony-Point & having expressed his wishes to join the Light Infantry again; it is the Commander in Chief’s pleasure that he resume his command in that corps and Captain Perkins who was appointed to act on account of Captain Seldon’s indisposition will rejoin his own regiment.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 18 October 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

          Gentlemen
          Head Quarters West Point 18th Octobr 1779.

        In consequence of yours of the 9th instant I have wrote to Mr Hatfeild to come to Head Quarters. I have not yet received an answer

from him to mine of the 2d instant, and am therefore still at a loss to know what shoes may be expected from him.
        It is possible that a requisition of Cloathing for the troops to the Westward may have been already made to you by Colo. Brodhead, and that measures may have been taken to supply them. If not, be pleased to put the inclosed into the hands of the Cloathier General, who, I doubt not, will immediately do what is needful upon the occasion.
        I have recd the Commissions for the Maryland Company of Artillery and for Ensign Harris of the 5th Maryland. I have the honor to be &c.

          P.S. It is possible that Colo. Brodhead may be enabled to undertake some thing agt Detroit in the course of the Winter. Should he therefore make a requisition of any Stores necessary upon such an occasion the Board will be pleased to comply with his demands without waiting for my concurrence, by which so much delay might be occasioned as to defeat the enterprise—I have mentioned this to Colo. Brodhead. Be pleased to let no hint of this intention escape you.