Title: To George Washington from John Hall, 5 July 1757
From: Hall, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Nova Scotia Hallifax July 5. 1757

I wrote you last from New York, & have now to acquaint you Our Fleet arriv’d at this place the 30. Ultimo, after a blustring Passage of 9 days: Heaven propitious to our Designs, happily carrd the french Fleet under Marq. Beaufremont off this Coast a very few days before, where he had been cruising sometime with 8 Sail of the Line—had they fell in with us, the Event wou’d have disconcerted all Measures for the ensuing Scene, & frustrated the grandest Design that ever was projected in this Quarter. Since we have been here, 11 of the English Fleet with a 60 gun Ship have drop’d in, who seperated from the Whole in a Fog on the Banks of Newfoundland. they have on board 11 Regiments; convoy’d by 15 Sail of the Line & 5 Frigates, under the command of Vice Admirl Holbourn evr’y moment we expect to see them in the Offing, & immediately on their Arrival we proceed, but God knows where tho’ generally supposd to be against Louisbourgh—We are well assurd theres 21 or 22 french sail of the Line laying ready for us, who brot over lately 12 french Regiments, & an hourly Expectation of 7 more; with the 3 Regiments at this Place We shall have in all 20. 19 of wch consisting of as many thousands, they being all compleat will embark on this Expedition, & yet many are diffident of our Success, for by so considerable an Armament as the Enemy are said to have against us, they are appriz’d of our designs, & the Opposition will be violent. Hitherto we have been crown’d with Success, all Health & Spirits greatly elated at our good Luck in escaping the French Fleet. What but the Influence of Heaven coud enduce Beaufremont after he had cruis’d off this place 6 Weeks, having known of our Embarkation, & confident of our Weakness to leave it 6 days before our Appearance. had he fell in with us, not only the Loss of our Troops but the taking of our General must have been the Consequence. In all likelihood the Fate of America is impending, & the revolution of 6 Weeks will greatly change the face of Affairs in regard to the british Interest in America. Heaven avert the worst[.] I send the List of our

Squadron & the Regiments on this Expedition, if it gets to hand soon it will be the more amusing.
I shall make it my Business at any time to transmit you, what I may think new or agreable, & I hope whilst you do me the honour to receive them, you’l think I execute the Task with great Pleasure—here’s all the Preparations you can conceive, such a design can require, more than I can imagine & much more than I can describe. If I am well, I shall write you from the next Place. Interim wishing you the greatest Felicity I subscribe Sr with gt regd Yr most obt

Jno. Hall


Title: Memoranda, 6–10 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun] July 6 [1757 - 10 July 1757]

The Speaker
Write to him that upon settling an acct with Colo. Carlyle of this date there appeard to be a ballance of £186.9.2 – ½ justly due him for Sundry Services done, and necessarys furnishd for the use of the Publick witht havg any connection with other accts—whether am I to pay the acct or not he is uneasy abt the Payment.
Govr
Whether is Jenkin’s to be continu’d as post—& how is he to be pd if continud.
A Copy of the Mutiny & Desertion Bill—& what reward is offerd for Desertrs.
Treasurer.
Know if the Overplus of the money sent me for enlisting the Drafts may not be appropriated to other uses.
Also desire him to send the Balle of Captn Mercers acct.
Examine his two Letters to me & answer such parts as require it—one of his volunteers deserted.
Look at Mercers Letter & Inclose Mr Palmers Certificate.
What rewards are offerd for Desertrs.

Regiment
Order the Serjeants of each Company to devide the Men into Squads each takg the care of one & to see that the Men of their Squad have their necessarys their Cloaths & their Arms & Accoutrements always in good Order or answer for the neglect.
Speaker
Write to him about Cloathing the Regiment.
Mr Lewis
Write to him for Salt—Molasses.
To get Notes for my Tobo of the Inspecters at Falmouth—& send me an acct of their weights.
that his Overseer has receivd Money of the Comy for Pork.
Mr Digges
He strongly recommends Henry Barradale for the Office of Serjt or Corpl when he is qualified have him promoted.
Company’s.
The Men are always to be provided with three good Shirts & two good pr of stockgs. they are to preserve from wareing their Regimental Cloaths & are always to go Neat & clean.
Out Posts.
Are to send Serjeants or Corporals or some of their best drill Men to this place to be perfected in their Exercise.
Every Comg Officer neglecting to Train, & Discipline his Officers & Men shall be arrested & tryed for Disobedience of Order⟨s⟩.
Govr
write him the Contents of Colo. Stanwix’s Letter.


Title: Memoranda, 10–29 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun, 10–29 July 1757]

Company’s
recommend to the Officers the Study of their Duty—The Reading of such Treatises on Discipline as will give them an insight into, and knowledge of the Service and to make themselves familiar with the Articles of War.
Govr
Write to him for the Articles of War and desire him to Order the Printer to Publish a great Number of them[.] most Serjeants in the Regular Service are presented with one each.
Out Posts
For All Services done the Publick[,] Certificates are to be gi[ve]n by the Comg Officer where Money is not in hand to pay.
Out Posts
Not to allow more than One Soldr to be absent on furlow at a time—and to give the Reason and time of his absence at the Foot of the return.
Regular & most exact returns to be made once a Month not only of the Strength of the Company but also of the Arms, Ammunition Cloathing, & Stores, Any Officer failing in this point or makes a false return & that does not see into these things himself shall be immediately relievd & tryed for Disobedience of Order’s.
Every Comg Officer who looses Men by Desertion, are to use the most vigorous means to apprehend them & to see that the Cost over & above what the Country allows is deducted from the Pay of Such offending Soldiers—they are to be advertisd at 40/ reward.
Fort Loudoun.
Whenever a Soldier is confind the Nature of his Offence is to be given in In writing signd by the Person who confines him.
No Officer Commanding a Guard is to release any Prisoner after he is once confind without an Order from me or the Commanding Officer then present.
Majr Lewis & Captn Hog.
Send money by the former to pay of[f] the Recruitg accts of the Latter.

also send money to pay the Masters of Such Servants as Captn Hog has Enlistd.
Majr Lewis
Order the Doctr to send some Medicines by him to Mr Flemming for the use of his Company.
Direct him abt the Provisions at Fort Dinwiddie.
Not to Build more Forts.
Send the difficient Cloathing to Hogs Company.
Major Lewis.
To have money for answering Contingent Expences—and to furnish Captn Woodward & see that every thing goes right on that Quarter.


Title: From George Washington to John Robinson, 10 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Robinson, John

To the TreasurerDr Sir,
[Fort Loudoun] July 10th 1757.

I have had the pleasure of receiving your favours of the 21st & 29th ultimo. I did indeed begin to think (tho’ I cou’d scarcely believe it) that you had quite forgotten me.
I am greatly at a loss how to proceed, wanting the mutiny-bill: and do not know whether the Assembly have provided any reward for apprehending Deserters, which is very detrimental, and impedes the service much at this time; as more than one fourth of the draughts deserted before they reached this; and still continue to go off, notwithstanding I use every precaution I can possibly devise, to prevent this infamous practice.

I am greatly obliged to you for your endeavours to serve Capt. Gist—He seems to have sanguine hopes of Mr Atkins doing something for him. How justly they are formed, I know not.
I received the money you mention in your first letter, by Mr Boyd, and have disbursed the greatest part of it, and with the best œconomy I cou’d, to give content.
The sum was trifling; and unless more is speedily sent, we shall be in the suds again.
The accounts transmitted by Capt. Dagworthy, made our affairs appear with a gloomy aspect; but they begin to revive again—It was a surprizing mistake for an officer (in the least degree acquainted with the service) to make.
I had an opportunity of examining the same indians afterwards; and to me, they denied having given such an account; but all agree, that many large scouting parties wer sent hitherwards. and I believe they are exercising their cruelties in Pennsylvania, as I have heard of several murders committed there lately.
Capt. Dagworthy did I suppose for want of a good Interpreter, misunderstand the Intelligencer who was brought to him. I have received the two thousand pounds which you sent to Fredericksburgh; and have also received the Draughts &c. from your county, except John Stevens and James Johnston who have deserted. We have at this place in all, about 210 Draughts: Have lost since their arrival at Fredericksburgh near 80; and shall I fear lose very many more, unless severe Examples are made of some: which can not be done unless the military and civil powers, in their respective counties, will unite to apprehend these Fellows—who go off in full confidence of finding protection.
It is I fear beyond all doubt that poor Spotswood has fallen into the hands of the Enemy—Three men of his party are come in; who left him by his own order (to disperse) after they had fled from a party of Indians. They are however positive that he escap’d that party of indians—But the certainty of this is doubted. That matter which I hinted to you about Mercer, is since cleared up. He borrowed £250 by my order, and for the use of the public, while he remained at this place, and I was ordered to Ft Cumberland: and went off from here without rendering

me any account of it; so that I was liable for payment, and unacquainted with the disbursments. But since that he has pointed out the method to re-imburse Cox (who is crying every day thro’ apprehension of wrong.)
The sum of £164.1.5d which you speak of, is to assist in discharging this debt—I send you Mr Palmers certificate, and shou’d be obliged to you for the money: (I believe it may safely be trusted with Jenkins) that Cox’s doubts may be removed—I will send you a receipt for the money as soon as I get it.
I have settled Mr Carlyles accopt for necessaries furnished; and was obliged to pay him £70. to appease his complaints. It was hard he said, to have the balance from myself to him of £186.9.2 stopped, because he owed the country according to another accompt which he produced, only £25.1. (unless the country wou’d not pay him £93. . . .¾ accompts which he has charged and advanced money for 3 years ago). I did not care to pay him more than 70£. till I acquainted you with the affair; and shall now be glad of your sentiments on this matter: that is, whether I may allow him my whole accompt, and let him settle his other with the committee; deduct the £25.1 only, or the 25 & 93£. both?
Working destroys and wears our Soldiers clothing very much; and unless some timely measures are taken, to lay in a supply, we shall be as bad off as formerly.
Were we to begin now to engage those things, it wou’d be next fall twelvemonths ere they wou’d come to hand; and that wou’d bring two years about, between their receiving one Suit and the other.
If there shou’d be any thing done in it, I hope, as it is a perquisite inseparable from the Colonel, that the country will allow it to me: especially since the Governor has strip’d me of the only one that was allowed, and substituted a very inadequate reward in its room.
I shou’d be glad to know whether the overplus of the two thousand pounds, after paying enlisting money to the Draughts and volunteers, may not be applied to other purposes?
Since writing the above, 71 out of 95 Draughts that marched from Fredericksburgh on wednesday last, arrived at this place; the rest deserted. I am with great sincerity Dr Sir, your &c.

G:W.
Fort Loudoun July 10th 1757.

P.S. We are greatly distressed for want of arms for the Draughts—I have mentioned this to the Governor; but on this head, as on most others, he is silent.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 10 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

To Governor DinwiddieHonble Sir,
[Fort Loudoun] July 10th 1757.

I received your Honors letter of the 27th ultimo by Jenkins. The whole of the Militia from the adjacent counties that arrived here did not amount to more than 170 men: One half of those were unarmed, and the whole without ammunition or provisions. I detained such as were fit for Service, and discharged the rest; with threats to acquaint your Honor with the naked manner in which they came out. We have at this time about 50 of the Militia from Fairfax, 20 from Culpeper, and 40 from this county, at different posts employed in scouting, and assisting the inhabitants in harvesting.
The Letters I had from Colo. Stanwix only informed me, that he had determined (and agreeably to that determination, had procured waggons and every thing in readiness) to march to this place which, upon the first intelligence from Captn Dagworthy, he intended to make the general Rendezvous; and stand, until proper measures cou’d be concerted—That he approved much of the steps I had taken; and of the council of war held here. And that, upon the second advice, he had dismissed his waggons, and intended to remain at his camp near Carlyle—This is the purport of what he has written to me, except in answer to a letter of mine concerning Bat-men, which I desired to have certified by himself—as your Honor seemed to imagine I intended an imposition, in setting down the allowance due to the officers of the Virginia Regiment.
As your Honor was pleased to make the Regulars a precedent for reducing our Bat-men; we hope you will also do it for establishing an allowance for the expence of keeping them, and for affording the other allowances of Waggons, &c. to transport the Officers Baggage and necessaries (which hitherto has always been done at their own private cost).
I send your Honor the original writing under Colo. Stanwix’s own hand, as it came to me annexed to his letter—I forgot to mention before, that Colo. Sta[n]wix also wrote me, he had received advice from Colo. Wiser, that the Garrison of Fort Augusta, at Shamoken, apprehended an attack: because some Indians

who had just come in reported, that the french and indians had cut a large road within 10 miles of that fort. This letter was dated the 16th ulto and the Colonel observed, that he shou’d wait for further intelligence, before he moved.
There are 209 Draughts at this place; great numbers deserted before they got here, and some since: and, unless the civil and military Officers in the respective counties will exert themselves in apprehending these fellows, and severe examples are made of some (as warning to others) we shall not be able to keep a man; notwithstanding I take every precaution I possibly can, to prevent this infamous practise—Very few of the Draughts have arms; I have several Smiths employed in repairing the old ones in store here, which can scarcely be made serviceable—They can not be completed with Bayonets and cartouch-boxes. It was not ’till lately, I have been able to procure an Armourer; altho’ I had used my best endeavours to do so these 8 months past. That the Draughts may not be useless (thro’ the want of arms) I shall employ them on the public works until your Honors pleasure, on this head, is known.
I think it my duty to represent, that the contractors or Commissaries, who are to lay in provisions for the forces of this Colony for the ensuing year, shou’d be immediately appointed; as the season for engaging Beef is fast approaching, and the Pedlars and Butchers from Pennsylvania, are coming amongst the Settlers for the purpose of buying.
After the arrears of the Regiment [(]for which I am answerable) are paid off; it is necessary I shou’d have a fund of money lodged in my hands, to answer the contingent Expences of the Service.
I have acquainted many people with the answer your Honor gave to my representation in behalf of the accompts of the Indians—They are greatly dissatisfied at the thoughts of going to Williamsburgh; and I believe it will be attended with such bad effects, that no services of a similar kind, will ever again be done by them on the most urgent occasion.
I wou’d, therefore, to prevent this  which may be very injurious in its consequences, beg leave humbly to recommend, that some person should be appointed to take in and adjust, if not to pay off, all these accompts; and at the same time wou’d mention Captn Gist for this Duty: Because I understand Mr

Atkin intends to give him the management of all matters that relate to the Indians on this quarter; and it will therefore be consistent with his office.
I now enclose two receipts which I presented to your Honor in Williamsburgh, for money which Capt. Mercer laid out for Moccasons for the Indians. The Committee refused having any thing to say to them; because the money was to come properly out of a fund, of which your Honor has the management alone: & desired me to apply to you for it; and if your Honor remember, you returned for answer, that there was no money in your hands: offering at the same time a warrant upon the Speaker for it; which I did not take, as he had before assured me, there was no money in the Treasury.
I hope you will be kind enough to send it now by Jenkins, as it is very much wanted: I shou’d be glad to know whether your Honor intends to continue Jenkins’s pay?
Two Officers have desired leave to resign, since I wrote you last, namely Lt Eustace and Ensign Pert.
I have received 2,000£ of the Speaker, to pay the Draughts: We are greatly at a loss how to proceed, wanting the mutiny & desertion Bills (passed by the last Assembly:) and I shou’d be very glad to know what reward the Assembly have given for apprehending deserters; and in what manner payment is to be made.
It is not in my power to send your Honor a return of our strength, because I have not received the returns from the Officers at the detached posts. There is however, but little alteration from that of may.
Since writing the above, 70 more Draughts out of 95 that marched from Fredericksburgh on wednesday last, are arrived here; the rest deserted. When the whole have joined the Regiment, I shall, if your Honor is pleased to signify it as your desire, send you the number I receive from each county; and, if you require a return yet more particular, will transmit the names of each man. I am your &c.

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 11 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

To Governor DinwiddieHonble Sir,
[Fort Loudoun, 11 July 1757]

I had just closed mine yesterday, and was going to send off Jenkins with it, when yours of the 24th ultimo came to hand.
The Deserters apprehended at Maidstone, were treated with such lenity as their subsequent behaviour convinces me was misplaced: Several of them having since deserted. This infamous practice, wherein such numbers of our men have (by means of the villainy and ill-judged compassion of the country-people; who deem it a merit to assist Deserters) has been wonderfully successful; and is now arrived at such a height, that nothing can stop its scandalous progress, but the severest punishments, and most striking examples. Since mine of yesterday, no less than 24 more of the Draughts (after having received their money and clothes) deserted: notwithstanding every precaution I cou’d suggest was taken to prevent it: among others, I had all the roads way-laid in the night—Seven of those who went off last night took that road which happened to be blocked up. Mr Hughes (whom your Honor was been pleased to appoint adjutant) and two Soldiers, took two of them, after exchanging some shot, and wou’d in all probability have taken them all, had he not been disabled in the right hand, & one of our Soldiers shot thro’ the leg; and, it is believed, one of the Deserters was killed in the conflict.
I must again earnestly request, your Honor will please to send me up a copy of the mutiny and desertion bill, passed the last Session of Assembly; with blank warrants to execute the Sentence of the Courts martial; without which I fear we will soon lose, not only all the draughts but, by their going off with impunity, there is set such a bad example, as will render even the detension of the old Soldiers impracticable.

As the pressing exigency of this unhappy juncture, demands the utmost expedition; in which the welfare of the colony is so nearly concerned; I flatter myself Your Honor will not hesitate at sending me blank-warrants.
By a course of unerring experience, I am convinced beyond any doubt, that nothing but the most rigorous measures can have the least effect.
The inconceivable trouble those discontented turbulent fellows give us, and the few Officers that now remain here, have greatly impeded the service; and laid me under the necessity of appointing the three oldest Volunteers; vizt Mess: Speak, Felt, and Wood[ford], Ensigns; which I hope your Honor will approve of.
I am glad your Honor does not think of the additional companies, or Rangers, till the Regiment is completed. A short time has already demonstrated how justly founded your apprehensions on that head were—As I now begin to despair of seeing the 8 companies that remain in the Colony, compleated—I am convinced every day will lessen our numbers ’till some sad examples are made of the Deserters.
As the unhappy fate of poor Capt. Spotswood seems now to be ascertained, and made a vacant company in the Regiment, I beg leave to recommend Capt. McNeill in the warmest manner to your Honor for it: not only from his undoubted title of seniority but from his great merit, hard fate, and long sufferings in his rank and pay.
Shou’d he be again superseded; it can not be imagined, that a man of his spirit will be any longer detained in the service however prejudicial his leaving it may otherwise be to him. And I must confess it would give me pain that we should lose a good officer thro’ the default of common justice.
Your Honor seems surprized at my returning 432 men in may, and but 384 in June. It is true, there were several desertions in that interval; but, if your Honor will take the trouble of looking [at] those two returns, it will immediately remove your surprize: That of may was of my total effectives; and that of the 16th of June, was only of the number I then had fit for Duty; designed to shew your Honor what I [had] actually fit for service, at a time when we were threatened with the most imminent danger.

The reason of my being so urgent for the blank warrants is, that I am perswaded, that postponing the punishments ordered by the courts martial, will not only diminish the terror of delinquents, but encourage others of the Soldiers to follow their base example. And, wou’d Your Honor think proper to issue your proclamation, commanding all the Officers civil and military, to exert themselves in apprehending these Deserters, it wou’d probably have a good effect.
I have ordered a roll to be made out of the Draughts that deserted, since they were received at Fredericksburgh; which I here enclose your Honor, that you have it advertised, if you shall think it proper.
Although my Brothers affairs have been long in an unsettled state; and I am nearly interested in having them properly adjusted; and which can not be done without my presence being one of the Executors, yet I did not purpose when I asked leave, nor ever intended to be absent, but at some favorable time, when the Service cou’d admit of it without any detriment.
In mine of the 27th ultimo, I enclosed Your Honor Doctr Ross’s (commissary for the maryland troops) letter, relating to the provisions at Ft Cumberland; and desired your Honors instructions on that head: Since which the enclosed, on the same subject, came to my hand.
As Mr Atkin will not agree to part with any of the dutch-blankets which came up for the Indians, to replace those of the Regiments, which Colo. Stephen injudiciously gave away. I shall be at a great loss, not having a Blanket left; and unless they can be sent up soon from Williamsburgh, I shou’d be glad to receive orders to send for them to Pennsylvania. I am &c.

G:W.
July 11th 1757.


Title: To George Washington from John Stanwix, 11 July 1757
From: Stanwix, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Camp near Carlisle [Pa.] 11th July 1757

had I had any Opportunity of returning an Answer to the Favour of yours of the 24th of June should have acknowledged it much sooner but would not mis the Opportunity of this Express to Mr Atkins wch I send in this manner as Govern. Denny tell’s me the letter is to him of moment from Sir Wm Johnston and that if he has left your Country you will know how to Forward it to him. I have had severl partys out Scouting in these Borders as far as Rays town & so on over those North Mountains nothing material, a few Stragling Indians this way who have shot at Women & Children but killed as yet one Horse. Col: Wesser tells me his is pesterd with a good many more of them on their border’s from the Susquehana &c. when a good deal of Mischief has been done but they should have there & at Shamokin 600 Provincials at least or 800 as none are yet gone to S: Caroliana.
as to your Country Malitia all I believe we are to expect from them is their Guarding the Forts in Case the Provincials March forward except they were to go upon a Command they liked this might carry them out of their Countys.
There is no doubt but Adl Holburn has joyn’d Lord Loudoun before this off Hallifax we may soon expect to hear of

something being attempted in the North which at present takes up the whole attention both of Europe & America, your willingnes to allow me to waite upon you with the Troop’s and your Command is very Obliging, and no order’s from me shall move you from your present Station when you have had Instructions to remain, except the most Urgent Necessity, my General Instructions are to remain here where I am trying to throw up some usefull retrenchmts but shall think my self justified to march when it appears to me that the publick service on the back of any of these southern provinces may want Assistance, I beg you will believe that I am very truly Dr Sir Your most obedt humble Servt

John Stanwix


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 12 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

To Governor DinwiddieHonble Sir,
[Fort Loudoun] July 12th 1757.

After Jenkins left this yesterday evening, the enclosed, from Capt. Dagworthy, came to hand.
We have pretty many men, and very few arms here (that are fit for service).
I must now beg the favor of your Honor, to send me a commission for holding General Courts’-martial; as I apprehend that which I had under the former act, was no longer in force, than while that act existed. Irregularity and confusion will continually prevail among us, till the companies are formed, and the proper officers appointed to each: which can not be done,

unless your Honor will take the trouble upon yourself, or invest me with power and blank commissions to do it. At this time it will take nearly a dozen and an half commissions to complete the eight companies in Virginia with officers, and to make the necessary changes.
There are (including those which I have appointed the oldest volunteers to) five or six vacancies, besides nine or ten Ensigns that will be made Lieutenants: and if Captn Spotswood’s company shou’d be disposed of to McNeill (but I think it would be a little premature to give the company away till time or something else, shall confirm his death) there will be another vacancy occassioned by his promotion.
Capt. Woodwards company, nor any of the companies on the Branch were brought to this place. I am &c.

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to John Dagworthy, 12 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Dagworthy, John

Sir
Fort Loudoun, July 12th 1757

I recd your’s of the 10th Inst. Covering the Drummer’s Deposition about the Enemy⟨’s⟩ Motions and Designs which I hope will prove as favourable to us as the last Intelligence from that Quarter—I have Transmitted Governor Dinwiddie a Copy of it and would have sent an ⟨exprs⟩ to Colo. Stanwix did not the Bearer assure me that there cou’d be no doubt of your Expresses reaching him in due time—If you shou’d at any time hereafter have occasion to send an Express here you need not be at the Trouble of sendg it further than Pearsalls from whince Captn McKinzie will immediatly forward it here—the Bearer

⟨se⟩ems unfit for the Service he is now on being a Drunken delatory Fellow. I am Sir Your most hble ⟨Servt⟩

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Chew, 13 July 1757
From: Chew, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
New London 13th. July 1757

My not answering my Friend’s letters Punctually is not owing to want of Respect or Regard but am Often Prevented by Business, and the Cares of Life, or some other Accidents for which I never fail to Condemn myself and sue for Pardon as I now do to you for not Answering your kind favor from Phila. you Please me my dear Friend in what you say with Regard to the Campain and your being employ’d. the great have all there Reasons of state for what they doe, how vast must be the Surprize those who know you and the scene you have been engaged in for these several years to see you Continue unnoticed; when they that have only heard of your name think it both Cruel and hard—you form a Very just and true judgment of those in Places & Power Our Country is our first Care and demands all our best Endeavours but not the sacrificing ourselves without a Prospect of doing that or ourselves any Good—
I hope the Conclusion of the Summer may bring forth something at Present Every thing looks dark & Gloomy. I find no fault with the measures taken and the scripture forbids us to speak Evil of the Rulers of the Land; however I am Convinced and satisfied if some of our Country men had been imploy’d and those who had served with Credit & honnour been Rewarded or Noticed it Could have been attended with no Ill or bad Consequence—
   it is now the middle of July no Certainty of any Fleets arrival from England there is a Rumour they have been Speak with by a Fisherman, but those Gentry are seldom to be depended upon there is also a Report that Lord Loudoun is Arrived at Halyfax which I sincerely wish may be truth. it is out of Dispute that there is 8 sail of the Line in Louisbourgh and our Accots. from Martinico as Late as June 12th say Monsr. Bourparr their

Late General had taken the Command of seven sail of the Line & three Frigates with which it is strongly suspected he intended to sail for Louisbourgh if these two fleets or squadrons joyn, I am much afraid the utmost of our Expedition will be to secure Halyfax—I wish these Reports may be groundless, that Admiral Holborn may soon arrive and Lord Loudoun be able to Carry his Plan into Execution with such success as will may Reder [render] his name dear & Famous to his Country and give Peace to us here in the Poor depress’d Colonys—I shall inclose you a Boston Paper in this and Refer you to that for further news—
as to the Latter part of your Letter what shall I say, I often had the Pleasure of Breakfasting with the Charming Polly, Roger Morris was there (dont be startled) but not always, you know him he is a Ladys man, always something to say, the Town talk’t of it as a sure & settled Affair. I can’t say I think so and that I much doubt it, but assure you had Little Acquaintance with Mr. Morris and only slightly hinted it to Miss Polly; but how can you be Excused to Continue so long at Phila. I think I should have made a kind of Flying march of it if it had been only to have seen whether the Works were sufficient to withstand a Vigorous Attack, you a Soldier and a Lover. mind I have been arguing for my own Interest now for had you taken this method then I should have had the Pleasure of seeing you—my Paper is almost full and I am Convinced you will be heartily tyred in Reading it—however will just add that I intend to set out tomorrow for New York where I will not be wanting to let Miss Polly know the sincere Regard a Friend of mine has for her. and I am sure if she had my Eyes to see thro she would Prefer him to all others my Respects to Capts. Mercer & Stewart, if my Brother is in your way let him know I am well, now my Dear Friend I wish you Eternall Happiness and Content and assure you that I am with sincere Esteem Your most Obedt Servt.

Jos Chew

The post brings an Acct. of the Arrival of the Fleet from England for which the Lord be praised—


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 13 July 1757
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Williamsburg July 13th 1757

I recd Yrs of 27th Ulto—As to Mr Gun, if he rejects Lieutt’s Pay, I shall not give him more, & I hear he is come down the Country.
I wrote You pretty fully by Jenkins to which be refer’d. I now send You 400 Arms, which with those You have will be sufficient to Arm the Draughts &ca. they come under the Care of Serjeant Fent, who appears to me to be a deserving Young Man, I therefore desire You to give him an Ensigns Commission. I now send You sixteen Blank Commissions to be fill’d up for Subalterns according to their Merit, which You must be a better Judge of than I. As I have not a Return of the Draug[ht]s from each County, I cannot tell their Numbers, but hope they are at least sufficient to compleat the eight Compas. remaing in the Country; if enough for twelve Companies, that is, ten here besides those gone to So. Carolina, write me, & Yr Opinion who shd have Capt.’s Commiss[ion]s.
And after You have compleated The Compa[nies] to 100 Men each in Rank & file, I desire You to detach sufficient to Augusta, agreeable to the Disposition made by Ld Loudoun; but as I remember, You thot some other Places more proper (than were there determin’d on) for covering that Frontier. I refer that to You; & I think an Officer shou’d be sent there to supervise the whole; if You think Majr Lewis a proper Person for that

Service I agree to it—And the Men remaing with You, You are to dispose of them in the most eligible Method for the Service & Protectn of the Inhabitants reserving sufficient to finish Fort Loudoun.
I wonder You did not send me Copy of Colo. Stanwix’s Lr to You. I acknowledge I am surpriz’d at the long Time the Fort has been a buildg & hope You will with all possible Dispatch complete it.
I hope before this You have all the Draughts at Fort Loudoun, & put them in proper Order, after which read the Articles of War at the head of each Company—I observe what You write about the Militia, their refractory Temper & not coming up properly provided according to Law, which I shall particularly notice when they come to be paid; I think You had ⟨mutilated⟩ Militia from Prince Wm, but I doubt not before this You have sent them all Home.
I approve of Yr delivering some of the Ammunition to the poor Inhabitants, as I doubt not Yr frugality on that Head—I read Dr Ross’s Letter in regard to the Provisions deliver’d Ct. Dagworthy at Ft Cumberland[.] I have wrote fully to Govr Sharpe on that Head; there can be no Objection to their replacing the other Species at Ft Loudoun, that they do not find Fault with, & that of the Beef to be adjusted afterwards which You are to insist on.
I believe the Treasr sent up 2000£ to pay the ⟨D⟩raughts, as he had my Warrant for that Sum, which was suppos’d here to be sufficient. I know not what may be wanting to pay the Demands with You, on that Head You shou’d be more explicit—Mr Boyd had 6000 to pay the Arrears of the Regiment which with 2000 formerly paid the two Compas. sent to So. Caro. I understood from him wou’d pay the Arrears, & 4000 for Provisions; if deficient You shd write how much, at same Time I think he had all that was sign’d.
The Guns at Co. Hunters cannot be spar’d at present, but 14 Great Guns mounted at Fort Loudoun I think will make a good Defence. I have been much fatigued in geting Goods for the Inds. which I now send with Invo. under Cover to Mr Atkin, if he is gone open the Letter; & if he has appointed a Deputy deliver them to him; if Mr Gist is the Person I think he must have Capts. Pay; but Mr Atkin wrote me he expected Maryld to contribu⟨te⟩

to the Charge o[f] Presents &ca as it’s hard on this Country to be at the whole Expence—Whoever is left in trus⟨t⟩ by him must be particularly careful in keeping a⟨n⟩ exact Acct, to what Natn of Inds. & at what Times the Goods are given to them—Mr Atkin desir’d a Barrel of Powder & some Lead—which You are to supply.
It is not thot necessary to have a Commissy of Musters, as the Pay Mr must make a Return of the Men as he pays them.
You see the great Confidence I place in You which I hope You will discharge with Care & Probity. I remain Sir Your humble Servant

Robt Dinwiddie


Title: To George Washington from John Stanwix, 14 July 1757
From: Stanwix, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Camp near Carlisle [Pa.] 14th July 1757

Thô it is very probable Captain Dagworthy has sent you a Copy of a Deposi[tio]n from John Street a Drumr yet least this should not be so have enclosed that which he sent me what Stress there is to be laid on it I can not say, but by your Corpl ⟨illegible⟩ you the trouble of & if there should be any truth in it will put us upon our Guard, Thô I rather think if the Enemy are so strong as represent’d at Fort Duqusne & the Lakes they would be most likely detacth to the North where Lord Loudoun is trying to make the Greater Effort as I wrote you two days ago shall only add that I am Sir Your Most Obedt Humbe Sert

John Stanwix


Title: From George Washington to William Fairfax, 17 July 1757 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Fairfax, William

Letter not found: to William Fairfax, 17 July 1757. On 20 July 1757 Fairfax wrote to GW: “I rec’d yr Favor of the 17th inst.”


Title: From George Washington to John Kirkpatrick, 17 July 1757 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Kirkpatrick, John

Letter not found: to John Kirkpatrick, 17 July 1757. On 21 July 1757 Kirkpatrick wrote to GW: “I am honor’d with yours of the 17th.”


Title: To George Washington from William Fairfax, 17 July 1757
From: Fairfax, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sr
Belvoir. 17 July—57.

I rec’d yr Favor by Mr Kirkpatk and sorry that our Men have deserted in the great Number You mention, to Remedy such an evil Tendency appears improbable and whilst a branch of the Legislature seem afraid to enact a more forcible Law, all Delinquents will find an Asylum to skreen them—I am glad You are in a near Prospect of making Fort Loudoun defensible against any Enemy not very numerous and assisted with battering Cannon. You have or will be furnishd with two good Mortars, some Coehorn’s and Granado Shells &ca—I hope as most necessary.
If Mr Atkyn continues to disoblige the Indians thereby causing a general Dissatisfaction, I think You shou’d acquaint the Governor therewith, who together with the Council may let him know their Sentiments that if He perseveres in his uncommon Manner They will represent the Facts to Ld Loudoun who is to pay his Salary I suppose on his meriting it—I wish You may be able to form the Companys so as to admit your visiting Us abt the first of next Mo.

I have been lately advisd, that my Son William Hy was seen abt a Week ago at Mr Nicholas’s, supposing He came in the late Ships from England. He signified to Me that his Desires were to Serve and act in the Military, of which I acquainted You when You set off for Philadelphia—If therefore a Lieuts. Comission in yr Regiment be vacant, Please to acquaint the Governor as I shall do as soon as Billy comes up, for I would not have him loose much Time in equipping himself for the laudable Undertaking. I persuade my Self Billy will be more Steady than Bryan has prov’d, and give You more Pleasure to encourage his Improvement in Military Skill.
I am glad Capt. Gist is likely to be employd in Indian Affairs to his Advantage. His Daughter lives with Us and is kindly treated by Mrs Fx and Miss Hannah.
At  set
Billy this moment arriv’d, and I have acquainted him with the foregoing Article relating to his being Commissiond in our Regiment. He has brought Letters of Recomendation to Ld Loudoun & Genl Abercrombie, but as it is obvious there are many young Gentn with Ld Loudoun serving as Volunteers or Cadets which no doubt expect to be first commissiond It may be a long Time before Billy may have the Chance to be an Officer—The Letters to Ld Loudoun & Genl Abercrombie may be sent And I shall request Ld Fx to joyn his kind Recomendation of Billy to Ld Loudoun. In the mean time Billy can begin his first Rudiments under yr Discipline and if Ld Loudoun shd favor him wth his Commands, they can be attended. I hope We are not too late for a Commission under You, wch please to make known to the Govr as I shall soon do. The best Wishes of the Family attend You. Witness Yr affect. & obedient Servt &c.

W: Fairfax


Title: To George Washington from John Robinson, 18 July 1757
From: Robinson, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Wmsburgh July 18. 1757.

I recd your favour of the 10th Instant by Jenkins, and am not a little concerned, that you should harbour the least thought of my forgeting you, which if I know myself is impossible for me to do, but shall always with the greatest satisfaction remember the friendship which has and I flatter myself will always subsist between us.
I have procured a Copy of the Mutiny Act for you and delivered it to the Govr who will send it you by Jenkins, by which you will see better than I can inform you by Letter how you are to proceed, the Govr will also send you a Commission for the Trial of Offenders, I am very sorry to find such a dastardly spirit among our Drafts, and I think a speedy Example should be

made of some of them, that others may be detered from following their destructive Example.
As we could not tell what the Arrears for provisions amounted to the Govr thought the £4000 sent by Boyd would be sufficient till the Accts could be sent, and he would now upon your Letter have sent a further sum, but it was not thought proper to send so much by Jenkins, but he has given me a Warrant for £1500, payable to Mr Walker, who I expect to see this Week, when I shall pay it to him, and I suppose he will go immediately up with it, the Govr will direct how the Overplus of the £2000 shall be applied. I have sent by Jenkins £164.1.5. As to Mr Carlyle you may pay him deducting only the 25.1 as there is little doubt of the Committee allowing him the ¾ of his former Accts. As the Govr has the sole disposal of the Money that was last given for the Support of the Regiment, the Directions and Orders for cloathing must come from him and I am afraid you will have some difficulty to perswade him to let you receive any Benefit from it.
I am heartily concerned at the unhappy fate of poor Spotswood as I am afraid there is little hopes of his being alive, We have no news here worth writing, I am with the greatest truth Dr Sir Your Sincere & Affect. Freind

John Robinson


Title: To George Washington from John Stanwix, 18 July 1757
From: Stanwix, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Camp near Carlisle [Pa.] July 18th 1757

a Cherokee Indian is just arrived here & has put the ten indians waiting at this place for Prestents from this Collony into very ill humour, by telling them that their Brothers have been put into Prison at Winchester, so that is with the Greatest difficulty I could prevale with them to stay ’till this afternoon to take with them to our Fort Loudoun £400 worth, of presents to be there distributed after they joyn, but these Cherokees have insisted upon their interpreter Mr Smith going off directly to you to know the cause and have given them the Strongest assurance (wch I am sure I could do with great safety) that you will do them the greatest justice, and if any mistake has happen’d that you will make them the most ample satisfaction as Mr Smith their interpreter & the bear[e]r of this is press’d much by the Indians to set of so it prevents my saying any more than that I am with great truth Sir Your most obedt humble Servt

John Stanwix


Title: From George Washington to John Stanwix, 19 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Stanwix, John

To Colonel StanwixDr Sir
[Fort Loudoun] July 19th 1757.

Your favour of the 14th instant is come to hand.
I wrote you fully in three several letters, under one cover, about four days ago. Before yours came to hand, I had received a letter from Captn Dagworthy, enclosing a copy of Steels [Street’s] depositions; & made particular enquiry (of the bearer) whether the account was transmitted to you; being answered in the affirmative, and hearing by the Express to Mr Atkin, that the Messenger was near Carlyle; I forbore in my last, troubling you with a repetition of it. I sent one to Governor Dinwiddie, that, in case the affair shou’d turn out worse than I apprehended, the charge of negligence shou’d not lie at my door. But I shall not literally believe every account (now) from that quarter; as the late alarming news was founded in so little truth.
I can not believe, either, that the french on the Ohio do think of more than their own defence, and sending out scalping parties of Indians to annoy and keep our frontiers in terror. Be this as it may, I shall always think it my duty to stand in the best posture of defence, that the situation of my affairs will possibly admit.
I beg leave to offer my compliments to those Gentlemen of your Battalion, with whom I have the honor to be acquainted. I am Sir, your most obedt & obliged hble servant,

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to Horatio Sharpe, 20 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Sharpe, Horatio

To Governor Sharpe.Sir,
[Fort Loudoun] July 20th 1757.

I have undoubted intelligence that many Deserters from the Virginia Regiment are gone to, and are harboured and protected in several counties of your province, especially Baltimore-county, under the specious pretext of their unjust detention, after the expiration of the time, which, the Deserters

(I learn) pretend was limited when they enlisted. And some in authority, either from an ill-placed compassion, or from that spirit of opposition to the service, which is too prevalent thro’ Continent, have not only countenanced those Deserters, but made use of your Excellencys name for that purpose; as you may observe by the enclosed, (a copy of the original is in my possession.)
I am quite certain, that no orders have been issued, since I have been honored with the command of this Regiment, to enlist for any limited term; and Captn Gist (upon whom the Deserters wou’d fix this charge) declares on his honor, that he never mentioned limiting their time of Service in any other way than this, that they shou’d be discharged at the conclusion of the war or Expedition, which might possibly be ended in 6 or 8 months—which cou’d be deemed nothing more than one of those little subterfuges which, from the disagreeable nature of the Recruiting service, has, at some junctures been considered necessary: Tho’ I must still think, wou’d come with a better grace from a Sergeant, than a commissioned officer.
I am sure, from your Excellency’s good sense, experience, and knowledge in military affairs, that you have given no decision in this affair, without a proper enquiry; which cou’d not well be made without the attendance of those who recruited the Deserters: and that Majistrates have, from the report of the Deserters, afforded them this unjustifiable protection. As this is the point of view in which it appears to me; I have ordered Ensign Fell (who assisted in recruiting them) to wait on Your Excellency; and request, you wou’d be pleased to have the affair enquired into; that if the allegations of the Deserters be false, you will please to give such orders as will enable me to have them apprehended; and if they are well-grounded, that I may have Captn Gists conduct, for disobedience of orders, enquired into. I judge this step necessary to be taken, previously to my laying the affair before the Commander in Chief; therefore hope His Excellency will forgive this trouble from him who has the honor of being With great respect His Excely’s most obedt Hble Servant,

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Fell, 20 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Fell, Robert

[Fort Loudoun, 20 July 1757]
To Ensign FellBy George Washington &c. &c. &c.

You are ordered to wait upon His Excellency, the Governor of Maryland, with a letter which you will receive with this; and to request the favor of him to issue his warrant for the more effectually apprehending the many Deserters of the Virginia Regiment, that now appear publickly in Baltimore-county, under the protection of the civil Majistrates.
If His Excellency shou’d entertain any doubts respecting the legality of their enlistment; you are to desire that the matter be brought to a fair hearing; when you are to be present, and note the proceedings. Given under my hand this 20th of July, 1757.

G:W.


Title: To George Washington from John Stanwix, 20 July 1757
From: Stanwix, John
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Camp near Carlisle [Pa.] July 20th 1757

I hope Col. Washington has not been upon the Cerimony of not going for ten days on his private affairs without my leave, hope he will always take this upon himself, being well assured of your not being Absent from your Command where your presence is so very necessary, but when you can with safety to his Majestys Service, I have the pleasure to be very Sincerly Sir your most Obedt humble Servt

John Stanwix


Title: To George Washington from John Kirkpatrick, 21 July 1757
From: Kirkpatrick, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Alexandria 21st July 1757

I am honor’d with yours of the 17th inclosing a list of articles necessary for the Artillery—which cannot readily be procured here by what endeavours I have yet had occasion to make—indeed some triffling things may be had, vizt Sheep skins, Hair Cloths, Old Junk, Sifters and some spirits of Wine—the others will be difficult to meet with nigher than Philadelphia—if there—the Match I believe is not made in the Country & had we Copper & tinn, the Ladles & measures might be made, as also the Lanthorn—unless it is of a Particular kind—However, no pains shall be spared to accomplish any part of them—I shall be at Rock Creek in a day or two, and will enquire if any of them are amongst the Stores left in Colo. Beales care—Mr Carlyle tells me the Magazine at Williamsburg is well Supplyd with all or most of these things—from whence you may be Compleatly furnish’d—but, on what Authority he grounds his information, I cannot affirm.
You have, I dare say before now reced Mr Ramsay’s Letter in respect of your mining adventure, in which I desired he might be explicit as you was anxious to know the terms—He has procured You two shares I think, the rest being taken up before—I wish You great Success in it.
The Dangers that threatend Fort Cumberland I observe, are not entirely blown over, by severall presumptive Circumstances

we may imagine an Attempt intend’d, and in Consequence of its weakness will fall a Sacrifice—then may we Listen for Melancholy Accounts from every Quarter—Your Disapointment in the Augmentation of Your Regiment—the Fatigue, Uneasiness, and Dissatisfaction, You daily encounter in every Branch of the Service are Subject of Much regret—I sincerely wish You every Happiness this Life can afford, or the next can Bestow, & Am Dr Sr Your Much Obliged Servt

Jno: Kirkpatrick

P.S. I shall be glad Allways to be employed in any thing You have occasion for, this way.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Bullitt, 24 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Bullitt, Thomas

To Lieut. BulletSir,
[Fort Loudoun] July 24th 1757.

I have received two or three letters from you and Ensign Fleming—In answer I shall observe, that I think you have an undoubted right to sit as a regimental court martial, and to punish offenders; and that I am sorry to hear of the desertions which have happened in your company, and the temper of mind that prevails in your men; and hope, that you hitherto have, and do still continue to check this growing evil, and to maintain discipline.
It was a mistake (I believe I might say negligence) in the Quarter-master, that he did not send Hats for your company, Garters and Buckles; as to spatter-dashes, none of the Soldiers have received any: and with regard to what they call half-mounting, I must tell you, that every Soldier who has received

these, has paid for them. So that you may assure your company, there is no distinction made.
If you have one Halbert, it is more than we have in the whole Regiment; and I desire it may be laid aside, and a musket, &c. substituted in it’s place. Cartridge-paper is an article not to be had here; and we make use of horns and pouches in its stead, which you must also do. Drums will be sent by Major Lewis, who is to have the command of your company, and will move it hitherwards.
I have directed Capt. Hogg to give up the command of the company to you; and I desire that you will exert your best endeavours to finish the fort in the most expeditious manner; altho’ it shou’d, by that means, be roughly done. You are to take an exact account of all the Stores and of everything you receive from Captn Hogg; and pass your receipt for them.
In answer to the Queries which you and Mr Fleming have put, I shall observe, that it is the duty of every commanding Officer to use the greatest diligence and care, to pursue and apprehend Deserters; and that at as little expence as possible—but that such expence as must inevitably arise, be paid by the country.
The second case is pretty clear, from several of the articles of war; one of which requires the commanding officer to forbid a soldiers being credited, without orders from him: another prohibiting any persons dealing with Soldiers without his leave[.] No soldier is to be credited for more than his pay: and that pay so much as is due (and not more) shou’d be applied in paying off his accmpt with the Captain, or other officer, who keeps the companys accompts, and furnishes them with necessaries: and the remainder to pay the expence apprehending them.
I think, whoever enlisted a man under the late regulation for recruiting, was entitled to the two pistoles, bounty-money; but it cou’d not be expected that the Captain wou’d advance this sum, if he had no money of the Countrys in his hands.
By the present act of assembly, the person or persons enlisted, are entitled to £5. without the least deduction; and the Officer to his expences. if they are sent recruiting no person (either Servant or any other) after they are enlisted & attested, can be discharged by no person but myself, or the officer whom

I may appoint: and whoever assumes this liberty, subjects himself to be tried by a General Court Martial.
I have got several small accompts amounting to £2.12. which you sent me down, passed for the Soldiers; and will send the money by Major Lewis.
Give my complimts to Mr Fleming, and tell him, that if the appointment of officers is left to me, his detached situation will be no prejudice to his promotion.

G:W——n


Title: General Court-Martial, 25–26 July 1757
From:
To:

[Fort Loudoun, 25–26 July 1757]

The Proceedings of a General-court-martial held at Fort Loudoun on the 25th & 26th Days of July 1757 by Vertue of a Commission directed to
Major Andrew Lewis President

                  Capt. Waggener
                 Members
                  Capt. Lieut. McNeill

                  Lieut. Lomax
                  Lieut. Steenbergen

                  Lieut. Campbell
                  Ensn Roy

                  Ensn Russell
                  Ensn Speake

Lieut. Nathl Thompson Judge Advocate
After the President, Members & Judge Advocate had taken the Oaths directed by an Act of Assembly passed the 14th Day of April 1757.

Prisoner Ignatius Edwards an old Deserter from the Regiment & brought back as a Draught by Vertue of a late Act of

Assembly confin’d by Ensn Speake for deserting since he last joined the Regiment was brought before the Court.
After the Prisoner had been informed for what Offence he was confin’d & brought to Tryal & had heard the Nature of his Offence again explain’d, and the Act of Assembly relative thereto read—He was asked by the Judge Advocate whether he was guilty of the Crime he was accused of or not guilty? he answered—Guilty. When he had plead guilty he was asked whether he had met with any such rigorous Treatment in the Service (or from what he had seen & known had Reason to dread he wou’d) as to induce him to desert? He answer’d NO. He was then asked what had induced him to be guilty of so heinous a Crime the Penalties of which he had been often told & perticularly made well acquainted with when he last joined the Regiment & in the warmest Manner exhorted to avoid? He answer’d he had heard the Articles against Desertion read but had not by any Exhortation or Command else as he cou’d recollect been advised or order’d to avoid the Penalties by Them inflicted.
Colo. George Washington (being sworn) declared that he exhorted the Draughts in general to act well & told them that by a good Behavior they wou’d not only prevent Punishments & harsh Treatment, but make him & the rest of the Officers do every Thing in their Power to render the Service agreeable & that after he had in general spoke to all the Draughts then present he addressed himself to the Prisoner in perticular & told him that (as he had already been twice pardoned for the villanous & shameful Crime of Desertion) he ought for the future to be perticularly careful of his Behavior & never more think of deserting for that shou’d he desert again & be apprehended Nothing cou’d prevent his being hanged—He likewise declares that an Offer was made him from the Prisoner and William Brent in his behalf that he (the Prisoner) for a Discharge wou’d procure a Man to serve in his Room & that he (the Colo.) told them that as he had been an old Offender he wou’d not for any Consideration discharge him.
Capt. Robt Steuart being sworn declares that he heard Colo. Washington speak to the Draughts & the Prisoner in perticular as above or in Words to the same Effect.
The Prisoner Ignatius Edwards says in his Defence that he

deserted with an Intent to hire two Men to come in his Stead. He was then told that he must be certain that no Pretence of that Kind wou’d be admitted as an Excuse for the Colo. himself had before he deserted told him that he wou’d not take Men in his Room. The Prisoner then was asked whether he had any Thing else to offer in his Defence which might diminish the horrid Nature of his Offence or make it appear in a more favourable View to the Court: He answer’d NO.
It is the Sentence of the Court that the above Prisoner Ignatius Edwards shall suffer Death by being hanged or shot.

Prisoners Joshua King & George Curtis Soldiers draughted by a Late Act of Assembly confin’d by Adjutant Hughs for Desertion were brought before the Court.
The Prisoners (after the Nature of their Offences were explain’d & the Act of Assembly relative thereto read) were by the Judge Advocate asked whether they were guilty or not guilty of the Crime they were accused of? answer’d Guilty. Upon their being asked whether their Treatment in the Service cou’d induce them to be guilty of so horrid an Offence they answer’d NO. They were then asked whether they did not know that they were liable for such an Offence to suffer Death? they answer’d Yes. Being then asked what cou’d induce them to become liable to such a Penalty? they answer’d the great Desire that they had to be at Home with their Friends. They were then asked wheather they had any Thing to offer in their Favour that cou’d alleviate their Crime they answer’d NO, only that they beged the Clemency of the Court.
It is the Sentence of the Court that the above Prisoners Joshua King & George Curtis shall suffer Death by being hanged or shot.

Prisoners Thomas Short a Soldier draughted by a late Act of Assembly, confin’d by Ensn Speake for Desertion was brought before the Court.
The Prisoner (being inform’d for what he was brought before the Court, the Nature of his Offence being explained &c.) being asked wheather he was guilty or not guilty of the Crime that he was accused of answered Guilty. He was then asked wheather he was not sensible that the Penalty was Death answer’d Yes but that he was induced thereto by William Beatly

who deserted with him & is not yet taken. Being asked wheather he had any Thing farther to say that wou’d render his Case favourable he answer’d No, I have not any.
It is the Sentence of the Court that the above Prisoner Thomas Short shall suffer Death by being hanged or Shot.

Aaron Felts James Butler Samuel Pate & Thomas Pate Soldiers draughted by a late Act of Assembly confind by Adjutant Hughs for Desertion were brought before the Court.
After, they were informed for what Offence they appear’d before the Court & the Nature of it explained &c., the same Questions were put to them that were put to the former Prisoner all which were answered in the same Manner with this Difference only that they were persuaded to desert by John Johnson—It is the Sentence of the Court that the Prisoners Aaron Felts, James Butler, Samuel Pate & Thomas Pate shall suffer Death by being hanged or shot.

Prisoners Stephen Lathrum of Lieut. Colo. Stephen’s Company confin’d by Ensn Starke for Desertion was brought before the Court.
After the Prisoner was told for what he appeared before the Court & the Nature of his Offence explained &c. he was asked the same Questions of the last that were tryed—all which he answer’d in the same Manner, only with this Difference viz. that he was not by any one induced to desert nor wou’d have done it was he to have been continued in the Country but that he did not care go to to South Carolina—This to be observed that this is not the first Time that the Prisoner has been guilty of, & tryed for, the same Offence.
It is the Sentence of the Court that the Prisoner Stephen Lathrum shall be shot.

John Fisher Jacob Rowell Joseph Hughs Soldiers draughted by a late Act of Assembly, confin’d by Ensn Crawford for Desertion were brought before the Court.
The Prisoners, after they were informed for what they appeared before the Court & the Nature of their Offence was explained &c., plead (upon being asked wheather they were Guilty or not Guilty) Guilty And in their Defence say that they had never received the Bounty Mony nor heard the Articles of

War read & that Colo. Paramour of Accomack County told them when they were draughted that they might desert with Impunity after they were delivered to the military Officers at Fredericksburgh.
It is the Sentence of the Court that the above Prisoners John Fisher, Jacob Rowell and Joseph Hughs shall each of them receive fifteen hundred Lashes.

Prisoners Richard Smith Hezekiah Ventris James Cooper & William Peyton Soldiers draughted by a late Act of Assembly confin’d by Ensn Crawford were brought before the Court.
The Prisoners (,after they were inform’d for what they appeared before the Court & the Nature of their Offence was explain’d, &c. upon being asked wheather they were guilty or not guilty) answered Guilty & in their Defence say that they had never received the Bounty Mony, took the Oaths or heard the Articles of War read & that they were induced to desert by James Fitzpatrick an old Soldier who told them that if they knew as much as he did they wou’d sooner cut their own Throats than come to Winchester.
It is the Sentence of the Court that the Prisoners Richard Smith, Hezekiah Ventris, James Cooper & William Peyton shall receive each one thousand Lashes.

Charles Thomson Henry Thomson Richard Morgan Joshua Bridge Soldiers draughted by a late Act of Assembly, confin’d by Ensn Speake for Desertion were brought before the Court.
The Prisoners (after the Nature of their Offences were explain’d & the Act of Assembly relative thereto read &c.) were by the Judge Advocate asked wheather they were guilty or not guilty of the Crime they were accused of? They answer’d Guilty. After which they were questioned in the same Manner as Joshua King & George Curtis had been to which Questions they answer’d in the same Manner as they had done with this difference only viz. that they were persuaded to desert by William Driver who deserted with them & is not yet taken. The Prisoners beg the Clemency of the Court.
It is the Sentence of the Court that the Prisoners Charles Thomson, Henry Thomson, Richard Morgan & Joshua Bridge shall suffer Death by being hanged or Shot.

Prisoners LeRoy Bryant a Soldier draughted by a late Act of Assembly, confin’d by Lieut. Baker for Desertion was brought before the Court.
The Prisoner (after the Nature of his Offence was explained &c.) was asked wheather he was guilty or not guilty. He answer’d Guilty, but in his Defense says that he intended to come back & that he had never been attested.
It is the Sentence of the Court that the above Prisoner LeRoy Bryant shall receive fifteen hundred Lashes.

William Smith a Soldier draughted by a late Act of Assembly, confin’d by Lieut. Crawford for Desertion was brought before the Court.
The Prisoner (after the Nature of his Offence was explain’d & the Act of Assembly relative thereto read &c.) was by the Judge Advocate asked wheather he was guilty or not guilty of the Crime that he was accused of & he answer’d Guilty. He was then asked the same Questions that had been put to Joshua King & George Curtis all which he answer’d in the same Manner that they had done with this Defference only viz. that he had deserted with an Intent to procure a Man to come in his Room.
It is the Sentence of the Court that the Prisoner William Smith shall suffer Death by hanging. It is the Opinion of the Court that the Tryal of William Steuart Packett be defered, ’till Evidences can be had from the South Branch every one being there that were Witnesses of his Misbehavior.


Title: To George Washington from William Meldrum, 26 July 1757
From: Meldrum, William
To: Washington, George

Sir.
[Winchester] 26th July 1757

When I did myself the pleasure to wait on you this morning, I proposed being in Town sometime to morrow afternoon, with a view to assist all in my power, those unhappy wretches under Sentence, in prepareing for Eternity. Something has happened Since that obliges me to absent myself, and not to attend agreeable to my then resolutions. If you are desirous to know the motives that have induced me to such a sudden (and seeminly unconsistent) change, shall referr You to Mr Thomson, who, I flatter myself, will conceal no part of what I have already told

him. I am wt. unfeigned regard Sir Your most affect. & most obedt Humble Sert

Will: Meldrum


Title: To George Washington from Horatio Sharpe, 27 July 1757
From: Sharpe, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Sir
Annapolis [Md.] the 27th of July 1757.

This serves to acknowledge the Receit of Your Letter by Mr Fell & also to inclose You a Copy of a Deposition that was made by a Sergeant who was sent some time ago to apprehend the Deserters that You say are harboured in Baltimore County. Could Mr Fell have named the Deserters I would have desired One of the Provincial Magistrates to issue a special Warrant for apprehending them, but as he did not recollect their Names I could do no more than give him a general Order directed to all the Civil Officers in that Part of the Country where the Deserters are as it is supposed harboured, requiring them to assist him to the utmost of their Power in the Execution of Your Orders. I think it is now three Quarters of a Year since the Case of these Deserters & the Conduct of Captain Gist while he was recruiting here was represented to Me in such a Light as inclined me to think that he had used some Artifices that would on Examination be scarcely thought justifiable, however I gave the Gentlemen that addressed themselves to me on that Occasion no other Answer than that if the Fellows would enlist into the Royal American Regiment they would not be called to Account for Leaving the Virginia Service, which Assurance was I think given by Governor Dinwiddie in a Proclamation that was issued about that time, but whether any of them did thereupon engage I know not, neither did I hear any thing more of them untill April last when Sergeant Davis came to Baltimore & complained that a

Deserter which he had apprehended had been rescued. On Enquiry it appeared that instead of carrying his Prisoner before a Magistrate who would have committed him the Sergeant left him confined in an upper Room of some Constables House whence at the End of two Days he made his Escape thro. a Window. Understanding that the Deserters whom the Sergeant was sent after were the Persons in whose behalf some Gentlemen of the County had before made Application to Me, I asked him several Questions concerning them & received for Answer what is contained in the Deposition abovementioned. The Sergeant afterwards asked me whether the four Men that he had enlisted could be punished for Desertion & on my saying that if they or any others had actually served the time for which they engaged They ought not; he desired to know whether he should then pursue his Orders & apprehend them, to which I answered that it was certainly his Duty to do so. From the Contents of the Paper that You sent inclosed I presume that he afterwards carried some of them before the Justices who signed that paper & that they upon the Sergeant’s or some other Evidence thought proper to release them, but as I never heard of that Transaction before, I cannot tell what inducd them to proceed in that manner; neither can I conceive how they came to mention my Name unless the Sergeant acquainted them with the Answer that I had given him vizt that if the Men had served the Term for which they were enlisted they ought not to be punished as Deserters. I shall write to Mr Boyce & desire to know what Men those were that he & the other Justice discharged & what Reasons moved them to do so, & by the first Opportunity of Conveyance that shall offer after I receive it I shall communicate to You his Answer. With great Regard I am Sir Your most obedt humb. Servt

Horo Sharpe


Title: Enclosure II: Horatio Sharpe’s Proclamation, 26 July 1757
From: Sharpe, Horatio
To:

To All and Every of the Officers both Civil & Military in Baltimore County

Given at Annapolis [Md.] the 26th day of July. 1757.
   It having been represented to me by Ensign Fell that there are many Deserters from the Virginia Regiment at this time harboured & concealed by sundry of the Inhabitants of Your County, and Colonel Washington having informed me that he has sent Mr Fell to search for and apprehend such Deserters, I hereby desire and require You to assist him to the utmost of Your Power in the Execution of his Orders: & I recommend it to You in an especial Manner to secure or have secured all Deserters that may retire from His Majesty’s Regular or the Provincial Forces to Your County for Shelter & Protection.

Horo Sharpe


Title: From George Washington to William Fairfax, 28 July 1757 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Fairfax, William

Letter not found: to William Fairfax, 28 July 1757. On 6 Aug. 1757 Fairfax wrote to GW: “I had yr Favor of the 28th.”


Title: Memoranda, 29 July–3 August 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun, 29 July–3 August 1757]

Mr Milner
Whether he intends to continue in the Service, or not.

Govr
Write to concerning the Impropriety of giving Sergeant Feint a Commission in preference of the Volunteers.
Look at his Letters of the 13th & 18th July.
Quarter Master.
get back an Order from him for 12 Camp Kettles deliverd to Captn Lewis because 6 of the 12 were returnd into the Store again from Conogochieg and an order given this day for 15 when only 9 will be drawn.
Mm of the Dates of the Officers Commissions wch I have given out.

                  Lieutt
                  Dangerfield
                  25th
                  May

                  Flemming
                  26
                  Ditto

                  Thompson
                  24
                  July

                  Smith
                  25
                  Ditto

                  Weeden
                  26
                  Ditto

                  Crawford
                  27
                  Ditto

                  Ensigns
                  Speake
                  10
                  July

                  Fell
                  11
                  Do

                  Woodford
                  13
                  Do

                  Starke
                  25
                  Do

Mr Boyd
Direct him to Pay Captn McKenzie for work done to the Fort at Pearsalls.
Govr
Whether as the Regimt is not comp[lete]d with Drafts am I to send Officers rec[ruitin]g or not.
If I do money will be wanted for that purpose.
Desire Jenkins to bring me up some Gilt Paper.


Title: Instructions to Company Captains, 29 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Company Captains

General Instructions to all the Captains of Companies.Gentlemen,
[Fort Loudoun] July 29th 1757.

The principal end proposed in sending you to the post to which you are ordered, is, to protect the Inhabitants of those parts, and to keep them if possible easy and quiet.
I injoin it upon you, therefore, to use every means which you and your Officers shall judge advisable, to answer this salutary purpose—particularly by keeping out constant scouting parties; who with diligence, care and precaution, are to range all those parts thro’ which the Enemy make their inroads: and, when the enemy draw near the Quarter you are in, to exert your utmost efforts in preventing the inhabitants from suffering, by giving them all the intelligence you can of their danger, and by endeavouring to cover them, by way-laying those defiles, thro’ which the enemy are most likely to pass, before they can penetrate into the Inhabitants.
These parties are to consist of such numbers as the service may require, and your circumstances will admit: But in general, I wou’d have a third part of your well men, and an officer (frequently, if not always to command; altho’ he may judge the party too small for his rank.)
You are by no means to impress Horses yourself, or licence any person or persons under your command to do it, except in cases of necessity and where the Interest of the service indispensably requires it for Expresses, &c. and then you are to be careful in seeing that, as soon as the service is performed, they be immediately returned to their proper Owners in good order; paying the hire of them; or else to give a certificate, specifying for what service they were pressed, and how long employed in it.
You are not to accommodate any Indians, that may happen to pass your way, with Horses, unless it be upon extraordinary cases; nor are you to hold any conferrences with them upon Business, only on such points as relate to the Service in which you are immediately engaged. Neither are you to attempt making Treaties with them, or to make them presents, promises, &c. or give any liqour, but in a very sparing manner.

If at any time or upon any occasion, you shou’d pay away money for contingent Expences, you are to take receipts for them, ascertaining the sum, & for what service paid, and keep an exact accompt thereof, in order to lay it before me, or any other person whom the Governor may think proper to substitute: and all Services done the public, for which you do not pay ready money, you are to give certificates, setting forth the nature and causes thereof, as aforesaid. And all accompts relative to provisions you are to settle with the Commissary, or agents whom the Governor shall appoint: and all that relate to your own and company’s pay, with the pay-master.
You are to take care that only one pound of flour, and the like quantity of meat, be delivered to each man per day: and that no more women draw provisions, than in proportion as 6 to 100 men.
You must prevent any provisions issuing without a written order from yourself, or the officer commanding in your absence—To have regular returns made out for that purpose—To cause all provisions to be exactly weighed, &c.
You are to use every imaginable precaution to prevent irregular suttling, licentious swearing, and all other unbecoming irregularities—and to neglect no pains or diligence in training your men (when off duty) to the true use and exercise of their arms; and teaching them in all other respects, the duties of their profession.
Be particularly careful in seeing that they take proper care of their clothes and accoutrements; which you are to do, by inspecting narrowly, every Saturday at least, into their order; & by punishing and making stoppages from those who have lost, sold, or otherwise made away with, or abused their things, till full reparation is had.
That this piece of duty may be conducted with ease; divide your men into as many squads as there are Sergeants, and make it the duty of each Sergeant (who is to keep a Roll of their necessaries for that purpose) to see that the men of his squad have their clothes, arms, and accoutrements always together, and in good order. This method I recommend as an alleviation of, but not an excuse for the Officers to neglect this duty themselves.
I also desire that the greatest regularity may be constantly observed

in relieving the Guards, the Sentries, and all other parts of ceremonious duty: That the men may not by neglecting this, contract bad habits, but rather thro’ a strict observance, become intimately acquainted with, and knowing in their duty. And as I wou’d have the whole regiment, tho’ never so much divided at present, pursue the same system of discipline, even in the most minute punctilio’s—You are to send an alert Sergeant or corporal, and two or three men, fit for the Drill, to this place to be perfected therein; who, on their return, are to instruct the rest of your command.
I recomend it to you, likewise, and in the strongest terms, that you, and the officers under your command, do make themselves masters of the necessary salutes.
You are to give in an exact size, and necessary role of your company and to see that no non-commissioned officer or Soldier is ever provided with less than 3 good shirts, two pair of good Stockings, and one pair of good Shoes; and that the initial letters of their names are marked upon their ammunition, clothes, and accoutrements; which you must cause to be entered in a Book kept for that purpose, to prevent their swapping and changing their things. You are also to be vastly careful in making them preserve their Regimentals, and to make them appear always neat and clean, and soldier-like, especially when they are upon Duty.
You are to transmit me the most exact and regular returns, made out once a month, not only of the strength of, and alterations in, your company (or command) but also of the arms, ammunition, clothes, and Stores, carefully examined by yourself, to prevent such egregious mistakes as often happen thro’ the negligence of the Officers, in trusting to the Sergeants: as, upon failure herein, you may depend upon being relieved and tried for disobedience of orders.
You are also to hold me duly advised of all material occurrencies in your Quarter. You are not to give furlough’s to more than one Soldier at a time, unless some particular cause requires it; and then you are to insert the reasons and time of their absence at the foot of your return, if they shou’d not happen to be present at the time it is made. Shou’d any of your men desert, you are to use your utmost endeavours in having them apprehended;

and whatever expence you are at, over and above what the country allows, is to be deducted from the pay of such offending Soldiers, if they shou’d happen to be taken.
Each Deserter is advertised at 40/ reward; and more, when other aggravating circumstances accompany his desertion.
I expect you will take great pains to make your Soldiers good marks-men, by teaching them to shoot at Targets.
I have been thus particular in my Instructions to you, because I expect the most punctual obedience will be paid to them; being determined not to overlook neglects of duty in any, but to act with the utmost strictness (agreeably to the Instructions which I am honored with from the Governor) and therefore, in order to enable you to support a proper command—I hereby require, that you do put any officer under arrest, whom you shall find negligent in his duty, or misbehaving as a Gentleman, and either enquire into his conduct with your own Officers (in order to a further examination at this place) or send him here (at once) for that purpose.
And I do hereby direct you to hold courts martial for trying and punishing non-commissioned officers and soldiers (without which the former are not to be broke, and after which, by no means to be reinstated, nor new ones appointed, without my approbation). In all other respects you are to govern yourselves exactly agreeable to the articles of War, and the rules and customs of the army.
Permit me, before I finish (and now that the companies are formed for service, and agreeable to order) to recommend, and I do in the strongest manner I can to you and your Officers; to devote some part of your leisure hours to the study of your profession, a knowledge in which can not be attained without application; nor any merit or applause to be atchieved without a certain knowledge thereof. Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all: and may, in a peculiar manner to us, who are in the way to be joined to Regulars in a very short time, and of distinguishing thro’ this mean, from other Provincials.
You are to be at no expence in building or repairing old works, without first apprizing me thereof: Because the money appropriated to that purpose is expended. The safety and convenience of soldiers render it a duty upon them to repair the

works, and make lodgments for themselves. I wou’d therefore have you observe this, and act conformably to it.

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Waggener, 29 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Waggener, Thomas

[Fort Loudoun, 29 July 1757]
By George Washington Esquire; Colonel of the Virginia Regiment, &c.To Captn Thomas Waggener.Sir,

You are Ordered forthwith to march from hence to the South-branch with your own men, and such of Capt. McKenzie’s as are at this place. The latter you are to deliver to him so soon as you arrive at this Garrison (with the orders and Instructions herewith given you for him.) And, immediately after he has taken a size and necessary roll of his company, you

are to demand 25 men and an Officer, (if he can possibly spare one) to reinforce your command; and with them proceed to the post assigned you (namely, Butter-milk-fort) and there use your utmost endeavours to protect the numerous body of Inhabitants in all those parts.
I am sensible, there is a necessity of throwing a few soldiers into some of the country-forts, in order to detain the Inhabitants in them; and I approve of your doing it; but at the same time recommend, that no more be appointed for this Service, than what are absolutely necessary to detain the inhabitants, & to resist any sudden attempts of the enemy to surprize the fort; reserving the principal part of them at the fort you reside at, to turn out and pursue the enemy, when you hear they are about it.
You are, as soon as you arrive at Captn McKenzie’s Garrison, to dispatch a messenger to Captn Woodward, that he may hold himself in readiness to march immediately upon your arrival; (and to take with him the company lately belonging to Captn Bronaugh, which is now joined to his own).
You are also to inform the Officer (Lt Weeden) commanding the company, lately Captn Cocke’s, now joined to Captn Lewis’s, that he is to march those men to Conogochieg immediately upon your arrival. And you are to see that not the least delay is made, after you do arrive in having this done.
As all the companies, agreeably to their present regulation, are now supplied with Kettles from the public stores; you are desired to collect all the old ones, pots, &c. that are among the troops upon the branch, and send them down to this place, under escort of Lt Weeden; giving him a strict charge to be careful of them: and you will deliver to Captn McKenzie, those which you have received at this place, for the use of his company.
You are, for farther direction, referred to the General Instructions herewith delivered to you. Given under my hand at Ft Loudoun, this 29th day of July, 1757.

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Woodward, 29 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Woodward, Henry

[Fort Loudoun, 29 July 1757]
By George Washington Esq; Colonel of the Virginia Regiment, &c.To Captn Henry Woodward.Sir,

You are ordered, immediately upon receipt hereof, to march with your own company (which by a late regulation, has the one that was Capt. Bronaughs added to it) to the plantation of Captn Dickenson on the cow-pasture; and to pursue the following rout, vizt First you are to go up the south fork; thence to the head of the cow-pasture river, and thence down the same to Dickensons; where you are to halt, ’till joined by Major Lewis, &

the Draughts sent by him to strengthen your company; or till you receive orders from the Major, what to do, if he shou’d not be there himself.
That he may have timely notice of your coming to Dickensons; you are to dispatch an Express to him at Augusta Courthouse, so soon as you begin your march. I expect you will make but little halt at Dickensons, as your place of destination is vauses, on Roanoake, to relieve the company that is posted there. Not knowing what may intervene at this distance, to render other orders necessary; you are as above, to receive directions from the Major, who is ordered to command the Detachment of the Regimt in that Quarter. And to him you are, till further orders, to apply for instructions in any thing you may require. You are also to send your Returns (agreeably to my General Instructions herewith sent you) to him; who is to send them with his own and Captn Spotswoods, to me.
As you will receive new Kettles from the public stores (to be delivered you by Maj. Lewis:) I have desired Captn Waggener to call in all the old ones, pots, &c. which were made use of in yours and Bronaugh’s late company; and to send them to this place: and I desire you will be punctual in seeing this done, as well as in seeing that great care is taken of the new kettles.
As the Fort which Captn Hogg is building, and to which you are now going, has, either thro’ bad conduct in the Director, idleness in the workmen, or thro’ some other cause which I can not comprehend, been of infinitely more expence to the country, and much longer about, than was ever expected—You are required to finish it with the utmost dispatch; and that in any manner, however rough, if it will secure you upon an attack.
You are for farther direction referred to the General Instructions herewith delivered you. Given at Ft Loudoun, this  day of July, 1757.

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to Robert McKenzie, 29 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: McKenzie, Robert

[Fort Loudoun, 29 July 1757]
To Captain McKenzieSir,

I have received yours; and have paid Doct. Craik the contents of your recruiting accompt.
Colo. Stephen has given so many strange orders, orders, so inconsistent with my Instructions and incompatible with his own—that it will be with great difficulty, if it is even possible, to extricate the Officers and myself from the dilemma and trouble they have occasioned. What right Colo. Stephen had to order any repairs to your fort, without giving me previous notice of his design, I know not; and why you shou’d apply to him for those orders (when I was nearly as convenient, and alone had the right to direct) is matter of surprize to me.
The fund established for building of forts, has long been expended; and how your demand will be answered, I am at a loss to determine. However, that you may not suffer by complying with Colo. S——n’s orders; draw out an exact accompt, and what assistance I can be towards procuring your money, shall be chearfully given.
I have ordered the Adjutant to transmit you copies of those Orders, relative to the regulation of the companies. General Instructions I have myself sent, and kettles will be delivered to you by Captn Waggener, whom I have given orders to demand a detachment of 25 men from Your Company; and an officer (if you can spare one) to strengthen his command, for the better protecting the Settlers above the Trough. All your old kettles, pots, &c. are to be sent to this place; and great care taken of the new. I am, Sir, Your most obed. Servt

G:W.
July 29th 1757.


Title: From George Washington to John Stanwix, 30 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Stanwix, John

Colonel StanwixDr Sir,
[Fort Loudoun] July 30th 1757.

My former letters wou’d inform you how little share I had in confining the Indians in the public Jail at this place.
Mr Atkin, in His Majesty’s name, applied to me, as commanding Officer, for aid to secure these people; which I thereupon did: but not without first representing the consequences that might, and in some measure, really did happen. This step was no sooner taken, than the Cherokees in town, about 22 in number, despatched a runner to inform their people, that the English had fallen upon their Brethren; and desired that they (the Cherokees) wou’d stand upon their defence. Another runner, you are sensible, came to Carlyle to inform the warriors there of it; who returned fully resolved to rescue the prisoners, or die in the attempt. The former they did, and were so enraged with Mr Atkin that they wou’d hold no conference with him the next day, when he sent to desire it, ’till they had first been with me for information. I took great pains to convince them that it was a mistake, and happily succeeded; they readily agreed to send an Indian with an Express which I might procure, to their nation, to prevent a massacre of all the Traders and white people there; which they looked upon as inevitable, except timely measures were taken to prevent it.
Out of the great number of Draughts that have deserted from us, we have been able to apprehend 22; two of whom were hanged on thursday last. The 8 companies now remaining in virginia are completed to about 80, rank & file, 4 Commanding officers, 4 Sergeants, and 2 Drummers; and are all marched to the several posts assigned them.
The commission which I have received from Governor Dinwiddie, to hold General courts martial is very long, and rather a repetition of the act. I shou’d be obliged, wou’d you let me know whether this be right or not. I took the liberty in a letter of the  to ask leave to be absent about 12 or 14 days, if circumstances

in this quarter wou’d permit: but having heard nothing from you since, I am inclined to address you again on that head; because as the 1st of August is the time appointed for the meeting of the Executors (of which I am one) of an Estate that I am much interested in a dividend of; and have suffered much already by the unsettled state it has remained in. This Estate does not lie more than a days journey from this place; so that I could return very quickly, if occasion required it. I am, with very great Esteem, Your most obt hble Servant,

G:W.

P.S. Since writing the above, I have received the enclosed from Captn McKenzie. Captn Waggener just before with upwards of 100 men, had marched to the place he speaks of, to strengthen the Garrisons on the Branch. I have sent him orders to select a good company (if the enemy still remain there) and use his best endeavours to fall in with their encampment; and I am certain he will neglect no means to accomplish it. I have also advice from the southern frontiers of augusta county, that the Indians have appeared and done some mischief. Major Lewis, with a Detachment of 250 men (including a company of 50, already in those parts) marched to occupy Vauses and Dickensons forts; and to repel the enemy if they still continued to commit depredations.

G:W.


Title: To George Washington from John Stanwix, 1 August 1757
From: Stanwix, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Camp near Carlisle [Pa.] Augst 1st 1757

in answer to the favour of yours of the 30th July I am to say as to Indian affairs Mr Atkins should know better than I but treating them with severity & not being able to carry it thrô would not do with any other sort of People[.] I had a long letter from him upon this head am glad however at last all was made up, have had a letter from the six chiefs themselves who have assured me theyr well satisfied.
tis more than a fortnight ago that I answer’d your letter when you mention’d its being convenient to your private affairs to attend them for a fortnight, in wch letter I express’d my Concern that you should think such a thing necessary to mention to me as I am sure you would not choose to be out of call should the service require your immediate attendance, & hope you will always take that liberty upon your self which I hope you will now do as soon as possible & have given your Drumr all dispach who am Dr Sir Your most Obedt & most humble Servt

John Stanwix


Title: Memoranda, 3 August–17 September 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun, 3 August–17 September 1757]

Govr
Write him how desirous the Indns are of havg a Drum. I have promisd to get one or two for Atosite.
Belhaven
Send up Wine for the Use of the Hospital.
Also Tin for the Publick Works.
Send up Mr Dicks Order to my Overseer for the Pigs.
Mr Kirkpatrick
Write to him & know whether the two Sums given credit for by Captn Bell were really recd or a mistake & how the 100£ advancd Majr Lewis is to be accd for.
Mr Lomax.
Know what was the Reason of his going away without acc[ountin]g for the Stopages from his Compy.
Mr Speake
Know Why he did not render an acct of Exps. of the 5£ advancd him when he went after Deserters.
Mr Bullet
Answer his Letter.
Govr
Inclose him Waggener’s Letter.
Kennedy’s return—& my Letter to Dr Ross.
Acquaint him that I have recd 500£ of Mr Boyd.
Govr
Send him the remainder of the size Rolls.
Doctr Ross’s answer to my Letter.
A return of the Provisions on hand if Rutherford did not satisfie him.