Title: From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 29 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

    Sir,
    Head Quarters Fish Kill [N.Y.] Novem. 29th 1778

I am favoured with your letter of this date with one from C——. His account has the appearance of a distinct and good one, and makes me desirous of a continuance of his correspondence. At the same time, I am at a loss how it can be conveniently carried on, as he is so scrupulous respecting the channel of conveyance. At the station, to which your regiment is going, it would be too circuitous and dilatory to have his communications pass through you. I wish you could fix upon some officer at Danbury, in whose discretion your correspondent would be willing to confide; or perhaps the matter might be so managed, that his communications might be conveyed through that officer without his knowing from whom they came. If this can be done, you will make the proper arrangements and give me notice. But any way, you can fall upon, in which the end can be answered with expedition will be agreeable to me.
  If you think you can really depend on C——s fidelity—I should be glad to have an interview with him myself, in which I would endeavour

    to put the mode of corresponding upon such a footing, that even if his letters were to fall into the enemy’s hands, he would have nothing to fear on that account.
I am sorry, I cannot send you the money, you request, per bearer; all the specie in my possession is with my baggage, from which, I shall be for some days separated. But, if I am not mistaken, there is a sum about equal to what is now wanted in the hands of Col. Henly, whom I have directed in the letter accompanying this, to pay what he may have, to you. You will apply to him accordingly.
Specie is so scarce an article and so difficult to be procured, that we must use great œconomy with it. If Continental money can be made to answer the purpose, in part, it will be a very desireable circumstance, and facilitate the necessary supplies. I am Sir Your most Obedt servant

    Go: Washington

P.S. if you cannot arrange the matter at once in some other way, you may remain awhile where you are to carry on the correspondence.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 30 November 1778
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Bound Brook [N.J.] Novr 30 1778

I got to this place last night but too late to take a survey of any part of the Country. I waited upon Lord Sterling as I came through Elizabeth Town and to my great surprise found Col. Moylans Light Dragoons had not been sent off. I spoke to his Lordship upon the necessity of sending them away immediately, he refusd to let them go, and said he would not remain at the Post if they were order’d away. He also informd me that he had wrote your Excellency upon the subject which he did not doubt would be very satisfactory to you—Every consideration must yield to necessity; If the Horse are continued there the Post must be abandoned by and by for want of Forage—There is less danger of a surprise there than ever there was—The Enemy upon Statten Island are all collected at the Northend and their Numbers greatly diminished—The Garrison at N. York much weakened and not the least appearance of any offensive operations in view—Under these circumstances I cannot see the propriety of continueing the Horse where it is attended with such destructive circumstances to guard against so remote an evil.

  If there must be that number of Horse or any thin[g] like it kept there during the Winter, The Post had much better be abandoned—The expence in the single article of Wood is upwards of 300 dollars a day.
I consulted the Field Officers upon the necessity of haveing the Horse kept there—they all agree to whom I mentioned the matter that there is not the least necessity for their being continued—There are not wanting insinuations that they are kept for Parade and that only; but as this is an ungenerous insinuation and as it comes from those who feel themselves injurd by the Horse being kept at the Post I would not lay any stress upon it.
Bad as I had conceivd of the Forage department in this quarter I find it much worse than I expected—There is none at all collected here and I am afraid not a great deal too collect—Col. Berry who is a man well acquainted with the resources of this County gives but poor encouragement of geting a supply of forage—I only mention this to shew the necessity of dismissing every useless mouth that destroys forage—Mr Furman has already been obligd to dismiss near 300 Teams that have been employed in transporting Provissions Eastward for want of provender.
It now rains very fast, as soon as ever it slakens a little I shall immediately go out to take a view of the ground towards Steels Tavern to fix upon a place for Huting—We have a considerable quantity of Boards collected here and a great many more coming in—I am in hopes nothing will be wanting but the Article of Forage; and as to that I cannot promise any great things however there shall be no want of industry to get every thing the Country can furnish or the people are willing to part with.
Col. Hooper and Col. Morgan in the State of Pennsylvania whose districts are both Forage Counties complain of a great scarcity of it. Col. Hooper says we must not depend much upon him, he is already so much drain’d that little more will be to be got in his district.
  I suppose your Excellency has heard of the Tories takeing off Col. Ward from Mr Hardens—I lodg’d that Night at Mr Hoppers at Paramus—An Express came to me at three oClock in the morning and acquaintd me of the accident—I immediately sent all the Light Horse I had with me in persuit of the Vilians—I also directed Col. Febiger at Hakensack to send out parties on Horseback and to guard all the pass<es> leading into N. york—Whether any of the parties came across the Thieves I have not heard as I came off early the Next morning.
  The impudence of these rascals is without example—It appears to me that it will be necessary to have a small guard at Paramus & Coes

    Tavern to secure the communication with the Eastern States—our Expresses and all dispaches will otherwise be greatly exposd—I was told as I came through that part of the Country that the Commanding Officer in N. York had offerd a considerable sum to any person that would intercept, the dispaches from Congress to your Excellency or from you to them. There must also be a guard at Kings ferry otherwise the Stores there on this side the River will be greatly exposd—Had not one of Col. Clarkes Regiments better take post there at once and prepar themselves for wintering there. I find from every late peice of intelligence out of N. York there is less hopes of the Enemys going off than ever and by my Lords account of their numbers still remaining in the City and the other out Posts their strength is very considerable.
Col. Febiger makes them much less Major Burnet thinks his account is better than my Lords but as my Lord has got the particular Corps his account must be better than the Colonels—However the Major founds his opinion upon the Bergen intelligence which he thinks is and ever has been the most to be depended upon of any that has ever been opened. I have the honor to be with great respect your Excellencys Most Obedient humble Sert

  Nathl Greene


Title: From George Washington to Colonel William Malcom, 30 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

    Sir,
    Fish Kill [N.Y.] Nov. 30th 1778

I intended in my way, to the Jerseys to have called at West Point; but being detained here by the weather, much longer than I expected to stay, I find it necessary to decline my proposed visit to the Garrison. I am to inform you that General McDougall is appointed to take the command in the Highlands—You will therefore receive your future orders from him. I am Sir Your most obedt sert.
Your favour of the 27th with the inclosed return is received.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 30 November 1778
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

    Dear Sir
    Saratoga [N.Y.] November 30th 1778

Last night I was honored with Your Excellencys favor of the 20th Instant, which was transmitted me by Brigr General Hand.
Sensibly Affected by the Confidence you do me the honor to repose, Impelled by the most affectionate Attatchment, by principles of gratitude, and Influenced by the most unfeigned desire to be Instrumental In promoting your happiness I shall venture my thoughts on the Subject you propose with that freedom you desire and that Candor which the Importance of the Matter equally with a regard to my own Character renders necessary.
  In my letter of the 9th ult. I forbore Remarks on the rout Into Canada by the way of Ontario, not only because It had not been Suggested, but (altho I might not have mentioned It) because the reasons which I concieve Induced General Amherst to prefer that rout in 1760 do not now Exist. At that time, The french naval force on Ontario had been Destroyed by Colo: Bradstreet in 1758. the Reduction of Niagera had taken place in 1759. That fortress, Fort Stanwix and Oswego were Occupied by british troops; General Gage had been sent in 1759 (after the death of General Prideaux) to take the Command, with orders from General Amherst to proceed across lake Ontario, In order to make a diversion In his favor And In that of General Wolf, the former at that time attempting to proceed thro lake Champlain And the latter besieging Quebec. In Consequence Of the orders given to General Gage who proceeded no farther than Oswego large Magazines of provisions had been conveyed to Fort Stanwix, Oswego, and the Intermediate posts, and nearly a Sufficiency of Cannon and Stores for the Expedition in 1760 were at those places. Vessels

    of force had been Constructed on Ontario. The Indians thro whose Country the rout from Fort Stanwix to Oswego lay were In the British Interest. So were those bordering on Ontario whilst those Inhabiting the banks of Lake Erie, the Environs of detroit and the Upper Lakes were Effectually prevented from giving molestation by the Garrison of Niagera Quebec was In possession of the british troops And every possibility of a reinforcement to the French cut of; their army without any supplies but what they could draw from that part of Canada which remained In their possession; such was the situation of Affairs when General Amherst entered Canada by the way of Ontario. The only Obstacle in his rout was Fort William Augustus situated on an Island In the St Lawrence, Just where the rapids begin, that reduced, he left no enemy in his rear to Annoy him In case of a retreat, or to prevent supplies from coming on, and he could move his whole army to batteauxs directly to Montreal, And as a diversion was made by a force on Lake Champlain under the command of Colo: Haviland, and General Murray with the Army from Quebec was advancing up the River, thereby preventing the Canadiens who Inhabit Its banks from Joining the French Army, and as the whole French force Including their Militia did not exceed in numbers the british and provincial troops, he was morally certain that he should not be under the necessity of making a retreat and as such A Capital Stock of provisions and other necessarys were Collected on his rout It became As easy to take the circuitous one by Oswego as the direct one thro lake Champlain, and a Consideration of these various favorable circumstances were what probably Induced him to <It>.
I shall now proceed to state the present situation of Affairs in that quarter; The Enemy Are In possession of Niagera, the Senecas, Cayugas, part of the Onondagos, and the Delawars and Mingos nearest to the former are all in their Interest These altho Incapable of preventing the March Of an Army, yet they would much retard It, and Oblige you to leave strong garrisons at the several posts on the Communication (which I shall hereafter enumerate) to cover and secure the Convoys of provisions that must follow and which must be very Considerable as no live Stock can with any degree of safety be drove beyond Fort Schuyler or at farthest and that not with out great danger and difficulty to Oswego. Another unfavorable Circumstance is the Enemy’s Shipping on Ontario For Altho an Army might cross by embracing the opportunity of a fair wind, yet that would be too precarious, and risking rather too much but If happily Effected, these vessels might Intercept the supplies which must of necessity follow the Army, or reduce you to a most disagreable Situation should you be Obliged to retreat.

  The Enemy are In possession of Dear Island what Obstruction that will give to the advance of the Army I am not Able to determine, not knowing Its Situation, extent, or the strength of the fortifications and Garrison, But they probably Intend It as a cover for their Shipping which would be of little use farther down the lake as they cannot move from La Galette to where I conjecture Dear Island to be without a Strong, and a fair gale, on Account of the Strength of the Currant above the rapids or falls even as far as near to Cadaraquie or Frontenac.
The Enemy are in possession of Quebec and Masters of the St Lawrence in all Its Extent And as the season will be considerably advanced before an Army can reach Canada by the way Of Ontario especially If vessels must be built at Oswego, they will have time to reinforce their troops from Halifax.
  The Enemy have such a naval force on Lake Champlain that assoon as they perceive that we do not mean to Enter Canada by that Lake they will Justly consider themselves in perfect Security with their Ships and their Whole force (except what may be necessary to Oppose the troops from Co’os) may be pointed to Oppose the Army from Ontario and should It meet with such a Check as to render a Retreat necessary there would be little hopes of Effecting one even with a Sacrifice of All the ordinance, Stores and baggage, as I cannot learn that there is a road to la Galette from Montreal or Its neighborhood, and the Currant is so exceedingly rapid as to render It exceedingly difficult for the best batteaumen to Ascend the river, and yet no other way can a retreat be Effected whilst they remain In possession of Champlain. Such my Dear Sir is the Situation of things In that quarter and such the difficulties that would Occur. But with an Army so Respectable as to put the necessity of a retreat out of Question every other difficulty is surmountable and the rout by Oswego the best, If not the only one, by which a Conquest of Canada Can be made, If a winter expedition Cannot be prosecuted and that we cannot gain a Superior naval force on Lake Champlain to make the Attempt by that Lake In Summer, And Your Excellencys plan for Conducting It promises fair to Crown It with success, the same alterations may be necessary as I concieve It would hardly be practicable to carry the Ship timber & plank from Albany to Schenectady and then up the Mohawk river to Fort Schuyler and thence to Oswego, and If It was, It would retard the movement of the Army as much as If going without It the army halted at Oswego whilst the vessels are Building, and the real design will be sufficiently Covered by the Movement of the troops from Co’os and by building the batteaux On this river which would Create a very Inconsiderable additional Expence as the land Carriage from Hudsons

    river to that part of the Mohawk river (14 miles below Schenectady) from whence half loaded batteaux may go to that place is under three miles, And the road now much better than when they were carried across for General Amhersts Expedition—and for a farther blind It might be well to draw some long Oak logs to the Mill at Fort Ann and hint that they are Intended to be sawed Into plank for the purpose of building Vessels in Champlain. It is true that Great Exertion will be required to prepare the various necessarys but these must take place on all such Occassions, And If the Iron work Rigging and pitch is all Collected At Albany In the Course of the winter So little time will Elapse In building the vessels that the Enemy will not be Able to Increase their force on Ontario In time, as It is utterly Impossible to bring vessels other than batteaux from Montreal, for In addition to the rapidity of the Currant, there are falls which are Insuperable Obstacles, and the vessels In lake Champlain can never be brought out of It unless they are taken Asunder; what I have abovesaid said I concieve Contains an Answer to Your Excellencys first, fourth, and fifth Questions. I therefore proceed to the Second. “How far there is a moral Certainty of Extending the American Arms Into Canada In the Course of next Campaign.”
On a supposition that the penetration by Ontario & from Co’os will be Effected as far as Montreal from the former and the South bank of St Lawrence from the latter I think It morally certain, that the reduction of the Fort at Sorrel St Johns, Isle aunoix and the free navigation of Champlain will be the Consequences but that In securing these so much time will Elapse as to leave It only In your power to penetrate no farther down the St Lawrence than Trois Revier.
“How far short of the Entire Conquest And Annexation of Canada to the union would give permanent peace and Security to the frontiers of these States” is the third Querie.
The Conquest and possession of Montreal And Its Environs Involves that of Niagera and all the posts to the westward, and secures the free navigation of lake Champlain, permanent Peace and Security will Consequently derive from It to the frontiers of the Middle States, to this And Newhampshire; that part of the Massachusetts only which lays Opposite to Quebec will be exposed to the Incursions of the Enemy from thence: Less than this would be Inadequate to preserve the frontiers In Security, unless Such a line of Forts was kept as would Intail an Expence Ultimately much heavier than what would Arise from the Conquest of that part of Canada with an Army competent to the Business; “By the Sixth querie your Excellency wishes to know “what resources can be drawn from the State of New York towards the support of an Expedition of this kind? that is by the way of Ontario.”

  This State can furnish the Materials for building the Batteaux and vessels except Oak <illegible> and rigging; It can furnish Carriages for the Conveyance of the Stores of every kind, A Considerable number of Carpenters, Batteaumen And Axmen. Flour, but I doubt wether In quantities Sufficient to Support a large Army for a whole Campaign; with a variety of Articles that do not now Occur.
“At what places would It be necessary to Establish posts between Albany and Oswego for the Support of the Communication and Security of Convoys”? “And how many men will be requisite at Each post for the Above purpose And at Oswego”?

      At the German flatts, there is a post Called Fort Dayton,   this might be Occupied by
      50
      Men

      Another post to be Occupied by a like number should be Established   At or near Oriska
      50

      Fort Schuyler will require
      150

      A Post Occupied by a like number will be necessary at the East End   of the Oneida lake
      150

      A Like post at the west End of the Oneida Lake at the Onondaga river
      150

      A Like post at three rivers
      150
      men

      Another at the Oswego falls
      150

      At Oswego
      200

      1050
      Men

  Besides these a Small post of 50 Men Should be Established at Sachendaga and one of 150 Men At or About Fort George to prevent Incursions On the Mohawks river and the upper part of this by parties from Lake Champlain.
To the 9th Question “Is there any practicable rout from Johnson Hall &c.” There is a river which I think is Called La famine and which heads If my memory serves me between fourty and fifty miles from Fort Schuyler, this river I had Explored in the Spring of 1758 at the request of Colo. Bradstreet who then meditated the Enterprize which he Afterwards Carried Into Execution against Fort Frontenac; The Country from Fort Schuyler to this river, If I recollect right, is rough and Swampy, thickly Covered with woods, the river Interrupted with falls and Shallows, and I think emptying Itself nearly Opposite to Frontenac or Cadaraquie. I recollect perfectly that It was Concluded Impracticable to move an Army that way. I have Still at Albany the Information I took from the persons employed And shall transmit a Copy assoon as I return To that place.
Your Excellency’s tenth question is “Whether Niagera can be approached with an Army and the necessary Apparatus by a rout which will avoid Lake Ontario.”

  The Country between Fort Schuyler and Niagera is very broken as far as Onondaga or Cayuga, thence less so but Extreamly low and wet And the whole covered with thick woods, thro which there is only a horse path. I am Inclined to believe that It would be exceedingly difficult If not Impossible to move an army with such An apparatus as would be necessary And requisite to reduce a Fortification So well Constructed as Niagera, what Advantages might accrue towards the movement of such an Army by descending wood Creek in batteaux Crossing the Oneida Lake and from the three rivers ascending the Cayuga Creek or river I am not Sufficiently Informed to give an Opinion on; But whether Niagera Can be Approached In the wished for Manner that is with cannon: by the way of Presquille, that Country has been travelled thro In 1764 by Capt. Montresor and Lieut. Pauli of the royal Americans their Journal has been In my possession, If It is still so, I cannot here determine on my return to Albany I shall make Search and If I find It send It together with An Account of the Inhabitants in detroit and the Strength of the Indians In that quarter as It Stood in 1764—which I am sure I have not <lost>. What has been Observed In the preceeding paragraph Includes an Answer to the 10th & 11th Queries; I proceed to the Last “The Advantages and disadvantages of maintaining That Post (Niagera) after possessing It, Canada Remaining In the hands of the Enemy.”
The Advantages of Maintaining Niagera would be; that the Senecas Cayaugas and such other of the Six nations and their dependants who are now so hostile would never venture to Molest our frontiers and their trade would benefit the States: That the Garrisons of Detroit, and Every other west of Niagera must fall Into our hands, and the Indians reduced to the necessity of asking peace on our own terms, Consequently the western frontiers of this State, of New Jersey, Pensylvania, Virginia, and I believe North Carolina rendered perfectly and permanently Secure, and an Extensive Country opened for Improvement; The Valuable furr trade of the upper lakes In the hands of the Inhabitants of the states, and probably the aid of many of the Indians Inhabiting the Country Abovementioned in the reduction of Canada, should the reduction of Niagera preceed that Event; I cannot foresee any disadvantages, the Expence of Maintaining respectable Garrisons At Niagera And Oswego Excepted; and such a Naval force On Ontario as to secure the free navigation thereof.
  Your Excellencys Intention to send a body of troops by the way of Allegany, La Beauf and Prisquille I very heartily approve, the Consequences will be extensively beneficial (even If they are Obliged to move without Cannon,) If the Expedition by the way of Ontario is prosecuted for It will prevent the Savages from harrasing the Army

    And Enable you to leave smaller garrisons at the several posts on the Communication between Albany and Oswego.
Permitt me to Observe that should you on Your arrival at Oswego receive such Intelligence as would render It Imprudent to prosecute the Expedition Into Canada, yet the reduction of Niagera is an Object, in my humble opinion well worthy the Expence of the preparations for the Enterprize Into Canada.
Having stated matters as they at present appear to me, I shall continue to reflect on the Subject that If I have omitted any thing or misrepresented others, I may hereafter advise your Excellency thereof. I wish only to add at present, that altho I think every Obstacle that would present Itself on the rout Into Canada by Ontario might without great difficulties be surmounted. Yet that the Easiest, and safest way would be to go by Champlain. If we could secure a naval superiority On Lake Champlain, by out building them In Spring, or by Securing the passage In winter; The last from what Your Excellency Observes cannot be done, and I agree that my proposals for building or rather preparing to build the Vessels at Fort Edward would be liable to the disadvantages you mention; but suppose the Vessels were to be as far compleated as possible at Albany so as to be taken asunder in the month of February and Conveyed to Fort Ann In Sleds; might not this be done without the danger of Announcing our design to the Enemy until It should be too late for them to apply a remedy? would not the Expence of Conveying these vessels be considerably less upon the whole, than the Extra Expence of Conveying An Army by the circuitous rout of Oswego? Sure I am that If the navigation of Champlain Can be Secured, that Success would be more Certain and A Check not so fatal as by the way of Ontario; And Measures might be taken to Induce the Enemy to a belief that an Expedition to Niagera was the Object of our preparations. besides an Army by the way of Cha[m]plain might reach Canada before any Considerable reinforcments could be sent to the Enemy.
Dodges Account of the Enemys Armed vessels on Ontario confirms more than one which I have had from the Oneidas and prisoners who have returned.
I shall do my best endeavours and without delay to be Informed of the Enemys strength At Niagera and Oswegatchie, and hope soon to do myself the pleasure of sending farther Accounts from Canada as I have since my return Imployed two men on that Service, whose Return I expect about Christmas, two more will set off in a few days.
  Should I go to Philadelphia In the Course of the Winter I shall most certainly pay you my respects; But may I not I hope If Your Head

    Quarters remain In this State to have the honor of Your Company at Albany for as many days as you can spare. If so I wish to be advised of It, that I may not experience the Mortification of being Absent at the time. I am Dear Sir with Every Affectionate wish, and with the Sincerest respect and Esteem Your Excellencys most Obedient Humble Servant

  Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel William Washington, 30 November 1778
From: Washington, William
To: Washington, George

    Sir,
    Elizabeth Town [N.J.] Novr 30 [1778]

If your Excellency has not determin’d where Col: Baylor’s Regt, shall Winter, in which I have the Honor to be appointed, by Congress, in Room of Col: Byrd, I cou’d wish that Wilmington or Frederick-Town might be assign’d it. Col: Pettit & Cox are of opinion that either of those Places wou’d be more convenient than Bristol; but prefer Frederick-Town, supposing that a sufficient Quantity of Forage may be collected in the Neighbourhood, & therefore save publick Forage. Capt. Smith informs me your Excellency promis’d to give Orders respecting Cornet Baylor who was arrested by Col: Baylor for gaming last Summer. I have the Honor to be with much Respect, your very Humb. Servt

  William Washington


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 1 December 1778
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Nathanael Greene, 1 Dec. 1778. On 4 Dec., GW acknowledged receipt of a letter of the “1st Inst. which met me on the way to this place.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 1 December 1778
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

    Dear General
    Roxbury [Mass.] Decr 1st 1778

This will be handed to you by the Hon. Mr Holker agent to the Royal Marine and Consul of France, whose known worth is universally acknowledged.
  It is now more than three weeks Since I had the honor to receive yours of the 29th Octr—Incloseing the resolve of Congress of the 22nd of the Same month appointing Major General Gates to the Command of the Eastern District, which I acknowledged in mine of the 7th Ulto mentio<ning> at the Same Time, that General Gates had taken the Command the Day before—I was a little surprized that no mention was made in the resolve or in your Excellencys Letter which enclosed it respecting me or my future destination, and have every Day Since been expecting to receive Intimations of your pleasure—but to this moment have not received any—you Cannot my Dear General but Suppose that in Such a Situation, I must not only feel embarrassed but many disagreable Sensations from all that I know as yet I cannot form a Conclusion whether I am Suspended from Command, or when or where I am to act, I am some Times told that I am to be ordered to Providence, to the Southward—to the northward, to the Main Army, and Some times that I am again to Command <here>, the late Change being only a political Manoeuvre. I am therefore endeavouring to Settle my affairs and to be prepared for Such orders as may be Sent me—but having received none Cannot rest longer without addressing you on the Subject, I was this Day almost determined, to Set out for your Quarters but the uncertainty where I am to act, and what Baggage it would be necessary for me to take on, which must be in a Considerable degree determined <by> the Situation of the place to which I may be ordered have induced me to defer it untill I hear further from your Excellency. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from George Measam, 1 December 1778
From: Measam, George
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from George Measam, 1 Dec. 1778. On 14 Dec., GW wrote Measam: “I received your two letters of the 1st and 4th Inst. this morning.”


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel William Washington, 1 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, William

    Dr Sir
    [Fishkill, N.Y., 1 Dec. 1778]

I received your favor last night and have the pleasure of transmitting your Commission which had just come to hand before in a Letter from the president.
Full instructions were made out for Baylors Regiment—but by accident they were put up in the paper Chest with the baggage. They shall follow you as soon as possible. In the mean time you will put the Regiment in motion and proceed with it as fast as you can to Frederick town in Maryland where it is to quarter unless it can be better accomodated with Hay & forage at Hagers town—in which case you will take your Station at the latter.
I wrote Colo. Bland yesterday that I had ordered a Subaltern with 16 Dragoons of Moylans Regt to join him at Sherard’s ferry—to be relieved by a like or an inferior party from Baylor’s when he gets to Frederick town if the state of the Regiment would admit of it—and gave him a line to the Commandg Officer for the purpose. You will settle this matter with him when he arrives there as circumstances will justify—If you are not brisk he will be there as soon if not before you.
With respect to Cornet Baylor, I am sorry he should have remained in arrest so long—and were he not charged with Gaming—I would release him from it; but as he is, you will direct a Court to sit when you get in Quarters—there will be several of the Officers of Bland’s Regiment at Winchester, who can compose it in part. I am Dr Sir with esteem & regard Yr Most Obedt sert

  G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Fleury, 2 December 1778
From: Fleury, François-Louis Teissèdre de
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Fleury, 2 Dec. 1778. On 13 Dec., GW wrote Fleury: “I recd your favr of the 2d upon the Road between the North River and this place.”


Title: To George Washington from Jedediah Huntington, 2 December 1778
From: Huntington, Jedediah
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Jedediah Huntington, 2 Dec. 1778. On 14 Dec., GW wrote Huntington: “Your favor of the 2d Inst. meet me on the road to this place.”


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 2 December 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    [Philadelphia] 2nd December [1778]

I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency on the 28th Ultimo, and of presenting to Congress your favor of the 23d on the 30th.
Last Night Mr Dodge delivered me Your Excellency’s Letter of the 26th which shall be laid before Congress this Morning.
This will be accompanied by the undermentioned Papers.
  1.  An Act of Congress of the 30th November for the more speedily and effectually obtaining Forage for the Army.
  2.  Copy of a Letter from Lieut Colonel Fleury of the 29th Ulto to Congress.
Your Excellency is requested by the House to express your sentiments thereon, and also of the Merits of Mr Fleury during his service in the Army.

  3.  An Act of Congress of the 1st Instant for granting a Brevet Commission with a saving Clause to Lieut. John Simonet de Valcour to rank as Captain—prefaced by a recital of a special Recommendation of Mr Valcour by Colonel Elisha Sheldon and other Officers.
  4.  The Brevet which I request Your Excellency will be pleased to transmit to the proper hand. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 2 December 1778
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from John Sullivan, 2 Dec. 1778. On 20 Dec., GW wrote Sullivan: “I have your two letters of the 2d and 7th Int. now before me.”


Title: From George Washington to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 2 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

    Sir
    Haverstraw [N.Y.] 2d Decemr 1778

By the inclosed you will perceive that the troops at Rhode Island are in extreme distress for want of Flour. If a supply of that Article is not already upon the way, you will, I hope, take every measure to have it thrown in before the Roads are in a worse state than they are at present—As I have not Copies of the inclosed be pleased to take care of them & return them. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

  Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Armstrong, 3 December 1778
From: Armstrong, John
To: Washington, George

    Dear General
    Carlisle [Pa.] 3d Decemr 1778

By so good a conveyance as that of Coll Irwin I can not wave the pleasure of a line to your Excellency, tho’ destitute of news or any thing of an interesting nature. I hope before this time yr winter quarters or retirement, is some way determined—Towns according to the present exorbitant prices of things, are in my opinion very unfavourable to our Soldiery. The Subalterns of your Army often gives me pain, as these in particular must have Suffered in a very feelling manner—I am now in this Country Villiage free from all kind of business which is my resolution for life, but am already assured that in such Situation & under the present rates, a few years even with great Economy are sufficient to injure a decent capital.
Contrary to every remonstrance in my power to make the Assembly of this State have given me an appointment in Congress—things have passed that House in which I might have done a little servise, these I consider as over & the Bow is Shot—The things now more generally on the Carpet are such as at no time of life I either loved or understood, Settleing or examining books & accts financeiring &c.—I shou’d not at any rate go down before the Spring, unless with a View to contribute to the farther Satisfaction of the Army provided any relicts of that Sort are undetermined—this motive will probably lead me down as early in January as the Roads & weather will admit. When In town I was told that General McIntosh had asked the Sanction of the Board of War for building a chain of small Redoubts from Fort Pitt to St Duskey—Pointing I presume to Detroite; and either recommended or queried the propriety of Erecting a like Cross Chain from F. Pitt to the Delaware or North River—These last at 18 or 20 miles distance must have been meant as a defense gainst the Indians! I can hardly think the good Brigadier Serious, his first Possition being at least problematical, the 2d more than Chimerical. I am dear General with the highest regard Your Excellencys most Obedt humbl. Servt

    John Armstrong

Is it not high time to invite Mrs Washington to head Qrs And that the young Gentlemen of your Sute look abroad whilst their Faces, & Facings are fresh—a Man may wear, but ought not to wither, in publick Service, before he make the honorable attempt to happify the gentle Sex, nor is this Salutary hint to be limitted to my venerable friend Coll Harrison, when it intends greater Latitude.


Title: To George Washington from Moses Hazen, 3 December 1778
From: Hazen, Moses
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Moses Hazen, 3 Dec. 1778. On 7 Dec., GW wrote Hazen: “I received yestrday evening your favor of the 3d Inst.”


Title: To George Washington from John Cadwalader, 4 December 1778
From: Cadwalader, John
To: Washington, George

    Dear sir
    Philada 4th Decemr 1778

The honorable Command given me, lately, by Congress, would have been very agreeable, if I had not conceived the war to be near the close—You may remember, in the last Conversation I had with your Excellency, I gave my reasons, fully, for declining any command in the Army.
It is no small mortification to me, that by not entering early into the Service, I lost the opportunity of shareing the honors which many officers have gained by serving under your Command.
The Civilities I received from you, whilst I remained in your Family at Camp will ever be remembered with gratitude—and, if our affairs should again take an unfortunate turn, be assured, you have not a friend more ready than I shall be, to share your dangers.
I most sincerely wish you may live to see the Liberties of your Country established upon the broadest Foundation; which I know, has ever been your only object, from the beginning of this Contest. I am Dr sir, with the greatest esteem, your most obet & very hble Servt

  John Cadwalader


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Thomas Clark, 4 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Clark, Thomas

    Dr Sir
    Elizabeth Town [N.J.] Decr 4: 1778 10 OClock P.m.

I have just now received authentic intelligence, that the Enemy have Several Ships moving up the North River with Troops & flat bottomed boats. I do not know what their object is—but you will hold all your troops in readiness, taking care to have them well supplied with amunition & provision, that the pass through the Clove may be defended to the last extremity if the Enemy mean to attempt the highland posts—thro that communication or for any other service that their movements and further Orders may make necessary. I am Dr sir Yr Most Obedt servant

  G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 4 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

    Dr Sir
    Elizabeth Town [N.J.] 4th Decr 1778.

I have to acknowlege the receipt of your last letters of the 30th Ulto and the 1st Inst. which met me on the way to this place.
  If Mr Wallace can spare two rooms below Stairs, it will <certainly> make our quarters much more comfortable as well as render them more convenient for public business. You <will be pleased> to concert measures with Mr Wallace for this purpose.
I consider with you the line of communication to the Eas[t]ward much endangered, by leaving pararmus exposed, and shall order the Carolina brigade to that station and its vicinity.
  The New-York paper of the 2 speaks of the taking of Col. Ward and Captn Bradford as an enterprise of <much> spirit conducted by tories, thro’ a great many hazards. <It has an ungenerous remark on the Colonel’s former profession.>
From a late application it is necessary to detach a regiment to Trenton and another to Philada for the security of the public stores. As I think of braking in upon Genl Woodfords brigade, you will in the plan for hutting have respect to this diminution.

  I shall endeavour to reach the quarters you have allotted me by that time Major Gibbs may have made his arrangements. I am <D Sir Your most hble Sert

    Go: Washington

  P.S. Col. Moylan’s horse will march to-day for their quarters at Lancaster.>


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 4 December 1778
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Nathanael Greene, 4 Dec. 1778. On 5 Dec., GW’s aide Robert Hanson Harrison wrote to Greene that GW “desired me to acknowledge his receipt of your favor of yesterday” (see GW to Greene, 4 Dec., source note).


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 4 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

    sir.
    Elizabeth Town [N.J.] Decemr the 4: 1778

Between Fredericksburg and this place, where I arrived yesterday afternoon, I had the Honor to receive Your Excellency’s several favors of the 26th 27th & 28th in due order, with their several Inclosures, which shall have my attention. My being on the road from the time of their coming to hand till yesterday, prevented me from acknowledging them before.
As many inconveniences would attend the removing of the Sick Officers and men of the Convention troops by Land, and the Officers having families—I have written to General Gates to permit them to proceed to the falls of James River by Water, on the Officers giving their paroles, that they and the Men will perform the voyage. I have also acquainted him of the meeting in contemplation for an exchange of prisoners, that the Officers may not leave Boston till the result is known.
  With respect to Major de passern of the Regiment of Hesse Hanau, I hope he may be released by an exchange, after which it will remain with him to obtain liberty from Sr Henry Clinton to return to Europe; but if the exchange in agitation should not take place, I should

    be happy if Congress themselves would decide, whether he is to be allowed his request. If on my permission he should go to Europe, without application to & the consent of the British Commander, which seems to be his intention—the Enemy might not think themselves bound upon a future occassion to account for him. I have the Honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt servant

  Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from George Measam, 4 December 1778
From: Measam, George
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from George Measam, 4 Dec. 1778. On 14 Dec., GW wrote Measam: “I received your two letters of the 1st and 4th Inst. this morning.”


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Daniel Morgan, 4 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Morgan, Daniel

    Dr sir.
    Eliz. Town [N.J.] Decr 4th 1778 10 OClock. P.m.

I have just received intelligence that the Enemy have several Ships moving up the North River with troops and flat bottomed Boats. I don’t know what their Object is, but you will hold Your Men collected and well supplied with amunition and provision to act on the earliest Order. Your heavy baggage you will send on to the Encampment at Middle brook. I am Dr sir Yr Most Obedt sert

  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Peter Muhlenberg, 4 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Muhlenberg, Peter

    Dr Sir
    Elizabeth Town [N.J.] Decr 4: 1778 10 OClock P.m.

I request that you will halt the Virginia troops wherever this finds you, if the Ground & Wood will admit of it—if it will not, I had rather you would countermarch ’em to the first convenient situation. You will collect the Troops & hold ’em in compact order, taking care to have them well supplied with provision & amunition and ready to move on the earliest order. You will continue all the Heavy baggage on it’s march & only retain what will be barely necessary for the Men & which they can carry—I don’t mean that the Artillery—or amunition Waggons should be separated from the Brigades. I am Dr sir Yr Most Obedt sert

  Go: Washington

  P.S. I have just received authentic intelligence that the Enemy have several Ships moving up the North River with Troops & flat bottomed boats.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters, 4 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Peters, Richard

    Sir
    Elizabeth Town [N.J.] 4th December 1778

I had the honor of receiving yours of the 24th ulto on the Road between Fredericksburg and this place. As soon as the Troops destined for the Middle Brook Cantonment have arrived at that Ground I shall detach one Regiment to Philada and another to Trenton agreeable to the desire of the Board. I shall set out for Middle Brook in the Morning, at which place I expect to meet two of the Virginia Brigades. the other and a considerable part of the Pennsylvanians and Marylanders are employed in escorting the Convention Troops from the North River to Delaware and securing the communication between them and the disaffected parts of the States of New York and New Jersey. I am &ca.


Title: To George Washington from William Rogers, 4 December 1778
From: Rogers, William
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from William Rogers, 4 Dec. 1778. On 13 Dec., GW wrote Rogers: “I have your favr of the 4th.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 4 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

    Dear Sir
    Elisabeth Town [N.J.]4th Decemr 1778. 10 OClock p.m.

I have just recd intelligence that the Enemy moved up the North River yesterday with 52 sail of Transports, and had proceeded this morning as far up as Closter which is above Fort Lee. What is their intent I do not know—I desire you will halt wherever this may find you—collect all your effective Men, and send your Baggage and Convalescents on towards Middle Brook. If you receive certain information that they have proceeded up towards the Highland Posts, you are to move towards Sufferans at the Mouth of the Clove—I would have you send a Messenger to meet Lt Colo. Hay with the 500 Men belonging to your division. If they have passed the North River, let them join you as expeditiously as possible. If they should be still upon the other side, let Colo. Hay put himself under the direction of Genl Mcdougall who may perhaps want assistance. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

    Go: Washington

P.S. If any of the troops belonging to the light Infantry should be on their way to rejoin their Corps be pleased to detain them with you.


Title: To George Washington from Benedict Arnold, 5 December 1778
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Benedict Arnold, 5 Dec. 1778. On 13 Dec., GW wrote Arnold: “Upon my arrival here I found your favor of the 5th.”


Title: To George Washington from James Clinton, 5 December 1778
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from James Clinton, 5 Dec. 1778. On 31 Dec., GW wrote Clinton: “I have been favoured with Your Letter of the 5th Inst.”


Title: To George Washington from Johann Kalb, 5 December 1778
From: Kalb, Johann
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Johann Kalb, 5 Dec. 1778. On 7 Dec., GW wrote Kalb: “I have recd your favr of the 5th.”


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 5 December 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    [Philadelphia] 5th December [1778]

My last was dated the 2nd Inst. since which I have had the honor of presenting to Congress Your Excellency’s favors of the 23d, 26th and 27th Ultimo, that of the 26th committed to the Board of War, and the whole remain unconsidered.

  This will cover two Acts of Congress—one of the 3d Instant for confirming the sentence of the General Court Martial on the tryal of Major General Schuyler—the other of the 4th for granting leave of absence for six Months to Major des Epiniers. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 5 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

    Dear Sir
    Paramus [N.J.] 5th Decemr 1778. 1 OClock P.m.

I am this moment arrived here from Elizabeth Town upon receiving intelligence of the Movement of the Enemy up the River. I have halted Genl Wayne at this place. Colo. Morgan with Woodfords Brigade is at Pompton, Colo. Clarke with the Carolina Brigade at the Clove and Baron Kalb with the two Maryland Brigades on the other side the Mountain. All these troops have orders to hold themselves in readiness [to] move towards the Posts in the Highlands should there be occasion. I do not yet know the intentions of the Enemy, but from what I have just learned it looks more like a forage than any attempt upon the posts. I shall be glad to learn what information you have received as quickly as possible, and whether Pattersons and Learneds Brigades have reached Fishkill. If they have not, you should send to hurry them on. I shall wait your answer in this neighbourhood. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

    Go: Washington

P.S. I beg you will strengthen the posts immediately as far as lays in your power and not depend upon the troops upon this side who may not get up in time should there be occasion.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 5 December 1778
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

    Sir,
    west point [N.Y.] Decr 5th 1778

  It was not until late in the evening of the 2d instant, that Patterson and Learnards Brigades arrived at Fish Kill. As they were much fatigued by the deep roads, I permited them to repose two days till I could determine on proper places for their winter Cantonment. At noon yesterday I arrived here, to inspect the Post, and give the necessary orders for the winter. In the evening I received advice from Col. A.H. Hay, that 20 Saile of the Enemies Shiping and a great number of Smallers one lay at Tapan Bay. Considering the advanced season,

    I was Confident this movement of the Enemy, was urged by Some urgent Necessity: And none appeared So probable to me as the want of provision, which by the last account from him, was very pressing. I therefore concluded the Stores at Kings Ferry to be his object. Measures were instantly taken to Secure them, and I have the pleasure to inform, not a Barrel of what was at the Ferry is lost. It is all Secured. Some that were at Mr Smiths House, was in some danger, but I have reason to imagine, that is also Safe. The Service will not now permit me now to report in particular detail the movements of the Enemy; or our measures to defeat him. His Position and ours; and the Troops ordered to reinforce the Posts are marked in the Margin. your Excellency may be relived from any anxiety about the Posts. when more Leisure offers, I shall be more particular, I am to leave this in an Hour, to endeavor to Ballance the Peeks Kill accounts, with the Enemy if he lands on the East Side. I have the Honor to be, your excellency Very Humble Servant.
3 p.m. 15 Saile of the Enemy at Kings Ferry and a number of Small Vessels & boats Still coming up. 52 in the whole.


Title: To George Washington from Peter Scull, 5 December 1778
From: Scull, Peter
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Peter Scull, 5 Dec. 1778. On 13 Dec., GW wrote Scull, referring to “your favr of the 5th.”


Title: To George Washington from Theodorick Bland, 5 December 1778
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Theodorick Bland, 6 Dec. 1778. On 9 Dec., GW wrote Bland: “Your favr of the 6th reached me at this place last evening.”


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Thomas Clark, 6 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Clark, Thomas

    Sir
    Paramus [N.J.] 6th December 1778

  I have recd intelligence that the enemy’s shipping had got as high up as King’s ferry and that they had landed some Men on this side near Haverstraw. Be pleased therefore to move the Brigade without

    their Baggage to a good peice of Ground seven or eight miles towards the Ferry. You had better march upon the Road nearest the Mountain and not upon that through Kakeate. If the enemy should have landed any men, you will send out scouts to reconnoitre them, and if foraging seems their object endeavour to keep them from penetrating the Country. If they keep in a Body and seem preparing for a design against the posts, keep your Men together also, prepared to act as circumstances may require. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

  Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 6 December 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    [Philadelphia] 6th December [1778]

I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency Yesterday by a Messenger to Lord Stirling. This will be accompanied by an Act of Congress for taking eventual Measures for emancipating the Province of Quebec dated the 5th Instant.
The 4th Instant Congress resolved to promote Lieut. Henry P. Livingston to be Captain in the Corps of Your Excellency’s Guard vice Captain Gibbes promoted. Mr Livingston having called on me for his Commission I have delivered it to him. The 5th it was resolved to lay aside the Plan for raising a Corps to be called the German Volunteers, in which a Mr Feuher and Mr Kleinshmeit had obtained Commissions to be Captains; these Men deserted some Months since from the Enemy’s Garrison at New York and I think came hither from Your Excellency’s Camp; the Board of War in their Report on this head intimate as one reason for desisting from raising the intended Corps, the late bad behaviour of the two Captains abovenamed which revived in my Mind that they had been upon their arrival at Philadelphia conducted to me by another pretended Deserter and Quarter Master in the Enemy’s Army, a Jew, who has since been discovered to be a fellow of infamous character. He interpreted from them several pieces of intelligence respecting the Enemy which were altogether groundless, and must have been calculated for sinister purposes I therefore esteem them suspicious and dangerous Persons, and have made these remarks in order to apprize Your Excellency in case of their appearance at Camp. The same day Lieut. John Carter having signified by Letter that he consider’d his promotion in Colonel Baylor’s Regiment of Horse irregular and injurious to other Officers in that Corps and desiring leave therefore to resign his Commission. The House Resolved

  to accept his resignation, and also on the same day Congress resolved as will appear by the inclosed Act that the sentence of the general Court Martial upon Major General Lee be carried into execution. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Peter Muhlenberg, 6 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Muhlenberg, Peter

    Dr Sir.
    Paramus [N.J.] 6th Decr 1778

You will be pleased upon receipt of this letter, immediately to put the troops under your command in motion with their field artillery and amunition for Sufferance at the mouth of Smiths Clove, and there wait further orders.
You will divest yourself of your baggage, which is to be ordered on to the place appointed for winter quarters. You may bring a few tents in some of the Strongest waggons to serve in case of very bad weather for the security of the arms—but you are not to encumber yourself with many—but to travel as light in every respect as possible.
I imagine you will find the route by the great falls to be the best, however you will make the necessary enquiry of those who know the country. I am Sir &c.

    G.W.

P.S. March only such men as are fit for service, let the invalids proceed with the baggage—you will also dispatch an express to Middle brook—for the Commissary Genl and forage master Genl to come on to Sufferance.


Title: To George Washington from Major Richard Platt, 6 December 1778
From: Platt, Richard
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Haverstraw [N.Y.] 6th Decr 1778 7 OClock A.m.

Your Excellency’s Letter of yesterday to Genl McDougall this moment came to my Hand; the Genl not being here, and presuming it will be keeping you in an unnecessary Suspence to wait Genl McDougall’s Answer, I beg leave to give you what Intelligence we have here; which probably will be better than the Genl could give you, as he returned but yestarday from West Point to Peeks Kill.
The Night before last eighteen Vessels anchored in Haverstraw Bay, upwards of a Dozen of them were Topsail Vessels & all except 2 or 3 were large Transport Ships filld with men. That Night Lt Col. Hay with 500 Pensylvanians & Genl Nixon’s Brigade were ordered by Genl McDougall then at Westpoint to march down to King’s Ferry with all possible Dispatch & cross the Ferry—The Pensylvanians arrived at the Ferry at 12 at Night; but the Col. being informed the Stores were all removed, did not see fit to cross. At 3 in the Morning, at which time Genl Nixon’s Brigade had arrived at the Ferry, received a Letter from Col. Hawke Hay that the Stores at Haverstraw (in all about 80 Barrels of flour & pork) were distributed among the Inhabitants for some miles distance; Col. Greaton began crossing over with Genl Nixon’s Brigade immediately; but there being only two Boats (the rest having been previously sent up the River with Stores) the Shipping got under way about 8 in the morning & a Frigate & two Gallies got within Cannon Shot of the Ferry seasonably enough to prevent 3 Companies of Col. Putnam’s Regt which was in the rear of the Brigade from crossing—The Troops took post upon the Hill at Col. Hay’s—The Enemy’s Transports fell down near Kings Ferry & the Troops debarked in 20 Boats, most of them were large flat Bottom Boats, and landed at Stoney Point—The Brigade immediately moved towards them; but before we got within a Mile of them they had set fire to two or three small Huts & gone on board their Boats, without destroying any Stores or taking any Cattle—As soon as the Ebb made the whole of the shipping weighed Anchor & sailed down the River—By Night, all except 5 large Vessels & 2 Gallies were out of Sight—These are now under way downwards just turning the point.
  Last Evening Genl McDougall sent Orders for Genl Nixon’s Brigade to recross the River, & for Col. Hay to cross over to this Side; likewise to Col. Clark to march from the Clove to Haverstraw: which Force the

    Genl supposed adequate to defeat their Designs; yet I presume as the Shipping are under way downwards it will be unnecessary for the Col. to march here, as Col. Hay’s Detachment will be sufficient upon that presumption Col. Clarke’s Letter was not sent him—We now moving down to the Ferry, all but one Regt which will be left Col. Hawke Hay’s ’till the Arrival of Col. Hay from the opposite Side.
Genl Patterson’s & Learneds Brigades arrived at Fish Kill last Thursday & were both put in Motion, vizt Genl Patterson’s to march down to Peeks Kill & Learneds to the Road which turns off to the Ferry at West point, there to wait further Orders.
I beg leave to inclose your Excelly Genl McDougall’s Letter of Yesterday to me, I have the Honor to be with the highest Esteem & Respect In behalf of Col. Greaton Your most Obedt Servt

  Richd Platt


Title: To George Washington from Steuben, 6 December 1778
From: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, baron von
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Steuben, 6 Dec. 1778. On 19 Dec., GW wrote Steuben: “I had the honor of receiving a few days since your letter of the 6th instant.”


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Walton White, 6 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: White, Anthony Walton

    Sir
    Paramus [N.J.] 6th Decemr 1778.

I have just recd intelligence that the enemy have gone down the River again. You may therefore proceed with the Regiment to the place of destination for the Winter. I am Sir Your most obt Servt

  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Jacob Bayley, 7 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Bayley, Jacob

    Sir
    Paramus [N.J.] 7th Decr 1778.

Your two favors of the 23d & 24th Ultimo came to hand yestrday evening.
Lieut. Col. Wheelok, who has been with Congress, carries up with him their resolutions respecting Col. Bedels Regiment to which I refer.

  The communications in your letter of the 23d seem to be pretty general but I have not had time to give them a very attentive consideration. It is my desire that you would still continue your inquiries in the same line; for altho the expedition, as I have mentioned at length in my last letter, is laid asside, for the present yet it may be resumed at a more convenient season. I would wish therefore to have every intelligence which can be procured from Canada.
You will find on the arrival of your son that I have sent you a supply of money. I am Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Moses Hazen, 7 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Hazen, Moses

    Sir.
    Paramus [N.J.] 7th Decemr 1778.

I received yestrday evening your favor of the 3d Inst.
In a letter lately written to Gen. Bayley I mentioned some of those reasons, which made it inexpedient to enter on a winter expedition—I could wish that our supplies and other circumstances were favourable to its execution, but as this is not the case it is necessary to suspend the enterprise for the present. I am &c.

  G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 7 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

    Sir
    Paramus [N.J.] 7th December 1778

I had the honor of receiving yours of the 2d at this place. I have forwarded the Brevet to Capt. Simonot, and shall take such measures in regard to Colo. Fleury’s letter as shall seem proper, upon my arrival at Middle Brook, for which I set out again tomorrow.
Upon leaving Elizabeth-town I directed Colo. Harrison to inform you of the intelligence I had received, and which I thought demanded my personal attention, as the enemy appeared to be going up the River in considerable force. Having put the troops destined for the Middle Brook Cantonment upon their march back towards the North River, I was proceeding that way myself, when an Express met me a few Miles beyond this, informing me that the enemy’s shipping which had been as high as King’s ferry had fallen down again. They landed a party at the Ferry and set fire to a few small Buildings near the Water, but upon a party of ours advancing they immediately debarked without attempting any thing further. The Boats and Stores of every kind had been previously secured—I cannot account for this Manoeuvre but by supposing that they have been misinformed as to the quantity of Stores at the Ferry, or that they expected to find the posts in a defenceless situation. Or it may perhaps have been to favor a Forage below.
Finding that the Troops destined for the defence of the Highlands, had arrived at their respective posts, agreeable to my orders and expectations, I have again put those intended for Middle Brook into motion, and I hope they will arrive there while the Roads and Weather are both fine.
  Accounts from New York, thro’ a good Channel, inform me that thirty thousand tons of shipping had been suddenly taken up for Government service and that a general Embargo is laid. The occasion has

    not yet transpired, at least it has not yet reached me. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most obt Servt

  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 7 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

    Dear Sir
    Paramus [N.J.] 7th Decemr 1778

I returned to this place from Elizabeth Town upon hearing that the Enemy had gone up the North River in considerable force. Their ships proceeded as far as King’s ferry at which place they landed a few men and burnt a small House upon the Wharf. The Boats and stores of every kind had been removed upon the first appearance of the ships. I do not know what was their true design; but they yesterday fell down again; without making any further attempts.
I have information thro’ a Channel which has seldom deceived me, that the enemy shortly intend to make a forage upon the Monmouth Coast. The distance of any Continental troops from that quarter, and the necessity which they are under of employing every moment in providing covering for the Winter obliges me to desire your Excelly to give orders to the Militia in that County to remove the stock near the Coast, and to have a particular Regard to the Houses of the disaffected, who always have previous notice of the designs of the Enemy and lay up stores of provision that they may be at hand when they make a descent. By doing this they screen themselves from the charge of having voluntarily contributed—I shall set out tomorrow for Middle Brook at which place I shall be happy to receive your Excellency’s favs. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 7 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

    Dear Sir
    Paramus [N.J.] 7th Decemr 1778

  I received yours dated the 5th at West Point early this morning. I was yesterday on my way towards the River when I met Major Platts letter from Haverstraw informing me that the enemy had fallen down the River again—and of the dispositions which had been made for

    their reception. By this letter I was releived from my principal anxiety which was, that perhaps Pattersons and Learneds Brigades might not have arrived. I cannot account for this odd maneuvre of Sr Henry Clinton in any other way, than by supposing that he was misinformed as to the quantity of Stores at the ferry, or that it was a demonstration above, to forage with more security below. My latest accounts from New York inform me that thirty thousand tons of shipping have been lately taken up for Government service and that a general Embargo is laid. The occasion has not yet transpired.
The Board of War have called for a Regim’t or two to guard the Stores at Philada and Trenton. I can think of none more proper than Colo. Hogans of Carolina at present at West Point. They are a tender set of people, but illy provided with Cloathing, and therefore require warm quarters. As I shall leave Colo. Clarke with the North Carolina Brigade at this place & Kakiate for the security of the Communication with the No. River  he will be within supporting distance of the posts, and will more than compensate for the reduction of your present force by withdrawing Hogans, which be pleased to put upon their march to Philada by way of Trenton as quickly as possible, directing the commanding Officer to call upon me at Middle Brook on his way down. Be pleased also to direct him to take as many of his Convalescents with him as he possibly can—I have ever found it beneficial to the service and to contribute to the regularity of duty to keep Corps and Brigades as compact as possible. I would therefore suggest to you, if you have not already made other arrangements, to send the small Regiments of Patten and Malcom to the East and West side of King’s Ferry—throw one of the Brigades into the Fort intire—and hut or cover the two others at such places as you think most convenient. Colo. Clarke had sent down two hundred Men to the Ferry upon the Alarm. I have desired him; if he has not withdrawn them, to let them remain there untill you send a party to releive them, which be pleased to do quickly as the Brigade to which they belong is under marching orders to this place. Colo. Clarke will be instructed to fall Back to the pass of the Clove at sufferans whenever the Enemy appear in force up the River, and take his further orders from you—The troops destined for the Middle Brook Cantonment are again upon their march to that place for which I shall set out tomorrow. I am with the greatest Regard Dr sir yr.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Daniel Morgan, 7 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Morgan, Daniel

    Sir,
    Paramus [N.J.] Decemr 7th 1778

  On receipt of this letter you will proceed with the Brigade under your Command to middle Brook, where your Ground will be pointed

    out to you by the Quarter Master Genl: Colo. Clark has orders to relieve the Guard at Mr Erskines, & I shall give Colo. Febiger instructions before I leave this place. I am Sir Your Mo: Obet Servt

  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Casimir Pulaski, 7 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Pulaski, Casimir

    Dear Sir
    Paramus [N.J.] 7th Decemr 1778

I had the pleasure of receiving yours by Capt. Le Brun—at this place. The spare ammunition of the Army having gone on with the park of Artillery to Pluckemin I have given an order to have a proper supply sent on from thence. I have likewise given an order upon the Cloathier General for one hundred shirts—We have already made a distribution of what Blankets were upon hand. The Board of War are taking measures to procure a further quantity when you shall have a proportion.
The badness of the Roads at this season will render the transportation, of even a very light peice of Cannon, difficult. I have therefore declined sending it up at present; but should any offensive operation be determined upon, and it should be thought practicable to carry a peice or two of light Cannon thro’ the Woods, they can be sent up with more convenience when the Roads are hardened by the Frost.
I have directed the German Battalion to be stationed at Easton with a view of ordering them to the Fronteir should their assistance be needed. I have thought it better to let them remain there untill wanted, than send them up to consume your Stores which I imagine are not very ample. I expect by the time this reaches you General Hand will have arrived. I am with great Regard Dear Sir Yr most obt.

    P.S. You will be pleased to be as car<eful> as possible of the amunition, deliver<ing> it out only when wanted, and order<ing> frequent examinations of the quan<tity> delivered to see that there is no unneces<sary> waste by the soldiery.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 7 December 1778
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Joseph Reed, 7 Dec. 1778. On 12 Dec., GW wrote Reed: “Your favor of the 7th Instt by Mr Laurens came to my hands a day or two ago.”


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 7 December 1778
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from John Sullivan, 7 Dec. 1778. On 20 Dec., GW wrote Sullivan: “I have your two letters of the 2d and 7th Int. now before me.”


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 8 December 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    [Philadelphia] 8th December [1778]

The last Letter which I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency is dated the 6th Instant, in the mean time I have received and presented to Congress your favors of the 4th and 5th, the former is committed to the Board of War.
By direction of Congress I now transmit Copy of a Letter of the 23d Ultimo from the honorable Major General Schuyler. You will be pleased Sir to direct your next Dispatches to the President of Congress, who will not be the subscriber; but in my private Character I shall ever retain that true respect and esteem under which I have so often had the honor of acknowledging myself, with Sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedient & Most Humble Servant.


Title: To George Washington from the President of the Maryland Senate and the Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates, 8 December 1778
From: President of the Maryland Senate,Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates
To: Washington, George

    Sir,
    Annaps [Md.] Decr 8th 1778

  Your Excellencys Letter of the 5th of Octobr, we laid before the General Assembly, and by its Direction have the honor of transmitting

    to you, the enclosed Resolution, relative to the Settlement of Rank in the Maryland line. We have the honor to be with the greatest respect and esteem Your Excellencys Most Obedient & most faithful humble Servts

    Danl of St Thos Jenifer P.S.

  Willm Fitzhugh Speaker H.D.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 8 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

    Sir
    Eliza: Town [N.J.] 8th Decemr 1778

Upon my arrival at Middle Brook I shall furnish you with Instructions for the command at this post and its vicinity, at which you are to remain with the Jersey Brigade. I have at present to desire that you will take every measure to prevent an intercourse between the Country and New York and that no persons, inhabitants of these States, may be permitted to go thither or into the Enemy’s lines without permission under the Hand of His Excellency the Governor of the State or myself. Neither are Flags to be sent but at the request of the Governor or by my direction. I do not mean by the above to prevent you from sending the usual persons over for intelligence, and from allowing them to carry and bring such small matters as are necessary to cloak their designs. But I must beg you to keep a very watchful eye upon them, and see that they do not abuse this indulgence by turning it into an extensive trade. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Phillips, 8 December 1778
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Cambridge [Mass.] December 8th 1778

  The unsuccessfull attempts which have been made to ratify the Treaty of Convention of Saratoga and the Asperity which seems to have crept into the Correspondence between Sir Henry Clinton and the American Congress leaves it to be conjectured that the humane purpose of a General Cartel of Exchange of Prisoners of War and

    Troops of the Convention will not have force so soon as good men like Yourself could wish.
You may naturally suppose, Sir, that I have been and am greatly interestd in the fate of the Troops with whom I have Served, and in the variety of my Ideas upon the Subject of Exchanges I have been led to imagine that the Interposition of intermediate Persons might operate in favour of a Cartel, and I have been of Opinion that my Rank and Situation gives me opportunity of offering my Interposition in favour of the Troops of Convention and for their being released.
Major General Gates having made the Treaty of Convention seemed to me to be a person proper to apply to on this Subject—I conveyed to him my Sentiments upon the matter, but not having any authority for writing or acting publickly upon the Occasion, I could only make it a private Opinion of my own with a desire, if possible, that some negociation might be opened from which all Parties might be benefited, and the Prisoners of War on both Sides, as well as the Troops of Convention, might be exchanged and Ransomed.
Major General Gates was Willing to Report to you and the American Congress whatever I pleased to propose upon this Subject, this I have not ventured to allow through fear of having my letters made publick or published but I am still of the opinion that by my having a Conversation with You, Sir, if You will permit it, or with any Officer you should appoint for the purpose, a plan might be formed for the mutual advantage of the British and American Armies, and it might be so done that neither you, Sir, or the American Congress on the one part, or Sir Henry Clinton on the other, need be committed in any manner on the Subject unless upon a General approbation so far as it might be necessary to ratify such propositions as might be made by myself and the Officer with whom I should confer.
I leave this, Sir, to Your Consideration, and if you will permit me I shall with great satisfaction pay you a Visit at your Head Quarters in my Way to Virginia, and I dare say it will give you equal pleasure with myself to be of use in the humane purposes I have in view, and it would afford me particular satisfaction to be able to transact Such an Affair with a Gentleman who, altho’ the misfortunes of the times have made an Enemy to Great Britain, calls upon my Respect for his private Virtues.
I should feel myself much obliged to you for an Answer whether I may pass your Head Quarters—I set out next Thursday by the Route of Hartford and Fishkill.


Title: To George Washington from William Phillips, 8 December 1778
From: Phillips, William
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from William Phillips, 8 Dec. 1778. On 25 Dec., GW wrote Phillips: “I received the favor of Your two Letters of the 8th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Elisha Sheldon, 8 December 1778
From: Sheldon, Elisha
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Elisha Sheldon, 8 Dec. 1778. On 17 Dec., GW wrote Sheldon in acknowledgment of “yours of the 8th.”


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Theodorick Bland, 9 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Bland, Theodorick

    Dear Sir
    Elizabeth Town [N.J.] 9th Decemr 1778.

Your favr of the 6th reached me at this place last evening. I am exceedingly sorry that you have been disappointed in finding the necessary Escorts of Militia in Pennsylvania as carrying forward the Continental troops at this season of the year will be attended with insuperable difficulties. They have to build their Hutts after their return to Middle Brook. The German Regiment which is part of the Escort is to be stationed at Easton for a particular purpose and therefore cannot proceed with you. Rather than let the divisions halt; and thereby croud upon one another, I would have you take forward such number of Continental troops as are absolutely necessary untill you obtain a sufficient Militia Guard. To effect this, be pleased to dispatch an Express to the Board of War informing them that the Militia have not turned out agreeable to order, and desiring them to apply again to the Governor & Executive Council for a more peremptory order to the County Lieutenants. Mention the number requisite that there may be no further misunderstanding. I should imagine that after the troops of the Convention have passed Delaware the Foreigners will require a very small guard, I mention this, that if you should not be able to raise the full number of Militia, you may go on with the Foreigners weakly guarded rather than carry on the Continental Troops; which I must again beg you not to do but upon the most urgent necessity. I have no objection to Mr McCallisters proceeding with you. I am &ca.


Title: To George Washington from William Butler, 9 December 1778
From: Butler, William
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from William Butler, 9 Dec. 1778. On 16 Dec., GW wrote Butler: “I have received your Letter of the 9th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 9 December 1778
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

    Sir,
    Peeks Kill [N.Y.] 9th Decr 1778

  I am honored with yours of the 7th instant from Paramus. Sir Harry Clinton was informed there were fifteen Hundred Barrels of

    Provission at Kings Ferry. The object of it is expected. His expedition as you conjectured was founded on false information. He secured a litle Broken Fish, which was all the acquisition of his enterprise to the Kings Ferry. The detachment of his, that marched out to Tarry Town, I beleive were not as Successfull as they expected. The Strength of it is particularised in the inclosed examination. The unsetled State of the Troops here, for Some days, and the many litle, but Necessary applications on business, to get them Cantoned, will prevent, me by this opportunity, from making Your Excellency a report in Form. But as mine from west point and Major platt’s which have reached you, contain the most of the principal Facts; I must beg your indulgence for the particular detail, for a few days, till I return from west point; for which I Sett off to morrow. Pattersons and Malcom’s—with two Companies of Hogans, were to have marc[he]d the day I received your orders respecting them, for Haverstraw; to Quarter there, in Vacant Houses for the winter; as Covering at the point is very difficient for the thin Garrison; and a Brigade. But they did not march owing to a machination, which I shall not now name. Col. Malcom is much disatisfied at a senior officer being Sent to West point, notwithstanding my having treating him with the utmost delicacey; and explained to him your motives & the Necessisty you were under of Strengthening the Garrison with a Brigade. And there are Senior Colonels to him in each of them, many as old as 1775. So that no disposition I could make, could Leave him in the Command; unless I would, detach from all the Brigads; or Send several Colonels from their Corps; a measure which I knew would be contrary to your Ideas; as it was to my own, and very injurious to the Service—Pattersons agreeable to your intimation to me at Fred’Bergh is there, and will remain for the winter. Nixons is hutting four miles from the Village, Learnards I shall dispose of at, or about Fish Kill, before I return. The army has carried So many of the Teams from this Vicinity, that it is impracticable to move Col. Hogan, with his Heavier bagage; in any reasonable time. To prevent delay, I have ordered him to leave his tents, at the Post, and Carry his other Heavey bagage to a Secure place from the Ferry with a Guard of invalids; to Follow him, when the Teams return. For the convenie[n]cy of quarters, on the route, he was directed to move in three divission. The two Companies under orders for Haverstraw, to imbark with the first tide; commanded by a Feild officer; who was instructed to call at Head Qur M. B. two others to follow, the next Opp[ortunity]; and four with the Colonel, all to be provided, with four days provission, exclusive of the day they embarked. The first divission moved this morning. I have not yet been able to begin the works at Kings Ferry as the Corps have not been Setled any time—Col.

    Gouvin has been to View the Ground. The advanced season will deter the Enemy from any Capital opperation to interrupt the passage; till Spring and I shall in a week be provided to remove the Gallies, or a Frigate. I wish Col. Gouvin to remain here, even after those redoubts are finished; or Col. De La Radiere to be order’d here—The Service requires one or the other; but, if Col. Gouvin in the opinion of General De Portal has as much Sciense and experience, as the Latter, I had much rather the former would be permited to Stay. He appears to be a modest worthy Young Gentleman. I shall be much obliged by an order for a Copy of Mr E[r]skines map whenever the Troops are particularly arranged for the winter, and the Necessary means in my power furnished them, a general report will be made to your Excy of the present State of the works at West point and what is Still necessary to be done to Compleat them. I have the Honor to be, Your Excellencys Humble Servant.


Title: To George Washington from Israel Putnam, 9 December 1778
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Israel Putnam, 9 Dec. 1778. On 20 Dec., GW wrote Putnam: “I am favd with yours of the 9th.”


Title: To George Washington from Lund Washington, 9 December 1778
From: Washington, Lund
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Lund Washington, 9 Dec. 1778. On 18 Dec., GW wrote Lund Washington: “Your letter of the 9th Instt came to my hands this day.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 10 December 1778
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Peeks Kill [N.Y.] Decr 10th 1778.

  I had the Honor to address you yesterday Evening. Extreme bad weather prevents my setting out for West Point, as I intended. It has always been difficult to supply this Post in Winter, with Forage—Your Excellency will readily conceive, how much this must now be increas’d, by the long Continuance of the Army in it’s Vicinity. Upon full Enquiry into, and Report upon the expected Supplies of this Article, I am certain it will be with the greatest Difficulty, that necessary Teams to transport provision can be supported thro’ the Winter; altho the strictest œconomy should be observed—I have therefore parked all my Field Artillery at Fish Kill, and ordered the Horses appertaining to it, and the different Corps, to be sent at a Distance from the Post. At all Events, a Deposit of Forage must be made at West point, to expedite the compleating of the works—To enable me to do this, I submit it to your Excellency’s Consideration, whether all Stores coming

    from the Eastward, should not be stopt east of Connecticut River till Grass; except such as are absolutely necessary? I take the Liberty to mention this matter early, in Order that it may have it’s Effect if it meets your Approbation. As the Commissary General will be at, or near Head-Quarters, may I ask the Favor to cause an Enquiry to be made of him, from whence the Troops at Danbury are expected to be supplied with Bread? For if it is to come from the Southward, a frugal Magazine must be made on the Route, in Time, within my Command. For Altho it is not my Duty, to provide that Article, it distresses me to have any Derangement in the Circle of my Department. An early improvement of Time, is the parent of Order and Success; without it none can expect either. The infinite Expence of our Land Carriage, will require the Mines of Peru and Mexico to support it, another Campaign—Reflecting on this Impediment to the public Service, I have determined to alter the Road from Kings Ferry to the Plains, and erect a Bridge over Croton, a mile above it’s Mouth; which will shorten the Distance eight Miles at least; some of the Inhabitants assert it will ten; and on a much better Road. But this will not be the only advantage attending the compleating this Route. Your Army can march in two Columns, one of which will be thro a disafected part of the Country; which has not suffered any of the Calamities of this cruel and unnatural war. And some of them, who live on the Margin of the River have afforded large Supplies to the Enemy. I have it also in Contemplation, whenever my Troops are compleatly covered, to secure two water Posts on the East Side, from Kings-Ferry to Tarry Town—Before I begin, I shall report the Plan, the mode and Means of the Execution, and their probable Security. In the Course of my Sea-Service, numerous are the Instances I have Seen of a single Cannon, on the Shore, saving many vessels pursued by an Enemy—I am so certain of the Expediency of this Scheme, that I will risque my Reputation on the Success of it, if my Orders are obeyed. And the Expence will be, but as the Dust in the Ballance, compared to the Utility, which will result from it, and the positive saving it will make to the Continent. But to effect this, and secure West Point, I shall want more heavy Cannon, I wish therefore to have your Excellency’s Order for those at Boston, which I am informed are subject to it. Cannot Some of the Somerset’s Cannon be procured for those important purposes? If either can be procured, no Time should be lost. It is for those Services I request Colonel Delaradiere or Lieut. Colonel Gouvion to be with me, to assist me in whatever I may be deficient in Science. The latter I would prefer, if he is equally qualifyed. However solicitous I am to carry those Ideas into Execution to promote the Service of my Country, it is in vain for me even to make the attempt, if I am removed

    from hence, before the opening of the Campaign, as I was early last Spring; altho I was ordered here unsolicited. Beyond that Period, I desire not to remain. Your Excellency will do me the justice to acknowlege, I never sought a seperate Command. I never wished it. It was, and is my Choice, to be with the Grand Army, where there is a field for Speculation and Improvement. As an Evidence of this, you may recollect when I commanded as a Brigadier here, in 1776, I requested a Major General might be sent to the Post, in hopes that some Contingency, would bring about my removal unasked. In 1777, my Brigade crossed Hudson’s River thrice, before I was happy enough to be permitted to join the grand Army. I was hardly recovered from a Severe Illness, before I was honored with your Commands to take Charge of the High Lands. disagreeable as the Prospect of a Seperation from the Army was to me, I obeyed without a Murmur, notwithstanding then rode two miles on Horse-back, & after my Disorder had seized me. From the Time I have had the Honor of being under your Command, I asked not the Reason of, but wish’d to obey Orders—Capricious petulance or liberty Principles, should have no Operation on the mind of an Officer, while in the Army. The Condition of ours and the Country, forbad and Still for[b]ids the Influence of either, more than in any of the modern Armies. I drew my Sword to maintain my Principles; it was not my province to determine, where they could be best defended and secured. I came to these Posts, when every thing was Disorder & Confusion, they were however arranged; you are no Stranger to the Event. Congress without any Charge of Mal-Conduct, or Misfortune happening to the Post, from Motives of more than Athenian Caprice (for I know not by what Name to call it) superseded me in the Command—This I bore without a Complaint, as I did many other Instances of Indelicacy towards me—They have appointed six Gentlemen over my Head, since 1776. Some of whom were unknown in the Cause of this Country, even after the Sword was drawn; and what was known of them was their Passivity: Others of them without Detraction, atchieved nothing to entitle them to extraordinary Notice, nor are any of them an Hannibal or a Fabius, a Cæsar or a Pompey.
  I own my Command has always been equal to, if not superior to my Ability and Experience; but the quality of Persons & things is generally determined by Comparison. If I know the Blots in my own Character, Vanity is not among those which mark it—I will not however yield the Palm to any of those Gentlemen, or to any of the Honorable Body who exalted those above their Superior, at the Expence of others; for early, painful and expensive Exertions, in the Cause of America. And I should be disqualifyed for the Office, I now hold, were I insensible

    of the Injustice done to me. I have not merited this Treatment of my Country. Whence it has arisen I am at a Loss to determine, unless it is, that I have not meanly cringed or wickedly caballed; or that having had a Halter about my Neck thirteen years for my Services to America, Congress conceive themselves at Liberty to treat me as they have done. But those are Artifices too wretched, to which I never have and trust never will submit—If the Honors of my Country are not to be purchased on virtuous Terms, those are too high for my Stock—I am once more honored with your Commands to take Charge of these Posts—It shall be my Study to discharge the Confidence you repose in me—But as I am amenable to my Superiors, and the Country for a faithful Discharge of it; she must furnish me with Power and the means of executing it. The works already began, and those which must be erected, considering the Positions assigned to the Troops and my quarters will render the ordinary Staff allowed me in the Field insufficient. Their Duty is greatly increased with mine—And the King of Prussia informs me Spies are the Eyes of the Army; I am furnish’d with no money to give them. Nor have I the most distant wish to be perplexed with it, but so far as it’s necessary to promote the Object of my Command—I am not informed whether these Posts are to be considered now as a seperate Department, or not. If they are, I wish to know it, that I may not be chargeable with Neglect in not corresponding with Congress—Otherwise it will be confined to the Commander in chief. There have been much Labor and Expence bestowed on the works at West Point—The public Expectations from them may be very great in Case of Misfortune or critical Inspection. It is a capricious, censorious and perilous Hour for General Officers. I am determined not to be made the Scape Goat of any Ignorant, wicked, or inattentive Servant of the Country, appointed by the Cabals or Intrigues of any Set of men—I have directed Lieutenant Colonel Gouvion the Engeneer, to repair to West Point with me to make an accurate Report of the present State of the works. Whether those are properly constructed or not? What other works are still necessary to be erected? The appropriation of the Materials whether proper or improper? What are still necessary to compleat? This done I shall report to Congress and your Excellency; and order the Engineer on the Ground to keep a Journal of my Orders directing the works, the Strength and Materials he shall have, and the Progress of the work from Day to Day; and if the supreme Council of the Country will not enable me to execute their Orders, they must take the Consequence with their Constituents—In Addition to the works you have directed me to erect at Kings Ferry, two small Bomb Batteries will be necessary, one on each Side. Shells are of all Instruments of Offence most dreaded by Ships—These will constantly secure the Ferry in all ordinary Cases.

    The like means will effect it at Dobb’s, which will shorten our Land Carriage thirty miles—If the Enemy come out to sett down before either, in the Course of the Campaign, it’s what we should wish, and I trust be gainers by the Attempt. When I return from West Point and Fish Kill I shall report to you the State of every Department at these Posts which I fear all require inspection. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s most Obedient and most humble Servant.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Thomson, 10 December 1778
From: Thomson, Charles
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Charles Thomson, 10 Dec. 1778. On 18 Dec., GW wrote Thomson: “I had the honor to receive your favor of the 10th Instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 11 December 1778
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Richard Peters, 11 Dec. 1778. On 20 Dec., GW wrote Peters: “I have recd a letter of the 11th inst. from the Secy of the Board [of War].”


Title: To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 11 December 1778
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Durham [Conn.] Decr 11th 1778.

The enclosed has this moment come to hand—nothing but the difficulty of crossing the Sound has delayed its arrival agreeable to the time appointed in my last.
Your Excellency’s Letter containing some instructions for carrying on the Correspondence with C—- in future came to hand when the Regt was on the march for this place. I accordingly saw them in Qrs first & then proposed returning somewhere in the vicinity of Fairfield, for the purpose of expediting any dispatches which might come to hand.
  The plan for intrusting the conveyance of C—-s letter to Hd Qrs & so of corr[e]sponding with him occasionally, to any Person unknown to C—- I must say I have no objection to; but I dare not venture to make an appointment without previously consulting him, least he should be alarmed at the Step & fearing a detection from having too many Confidants should relinquish his Employment—I will propose something of this kind to him by the next conveyance (with your Excellency’s leave) that being fully satisfied with his men, he may be easy in his situation, & the more useful in his undertaking. For the present I have left a Corpl & 3 or 4 Dragoons at Fairfd (at which Place is a Commy of

    Provisions & Forage, so that thier Horses may be well attended & recruited) where I shall immediately repair, & if necessary can return to the Regt for the most of the time, when dispatches are not expected.
Your Excellency proposes a Conference with C—- if his fidelity can be depended on—I dare pawn my Honour on his fidelity, but would propose some Considerations to your attention previous to mentioning the matter to C—-. Perhaps your Excellency may have forgotten the Circumstances which attended C—- first in leaving & then returning to the Island. Being an Inhabitant of L.I. & passing thro’ the sound, he was taken by one of our armed Sloops, considered as a Prisoner, & after some time permited by Governr Trumbull to return to L.I. on parole. There he tarried, ’till by the influence of his friends in this State, he obtained an order from Governr T—- to return to Connecticut. Tho permission could not be obtained from Governr Tryon, he still left the Island—When the Commissioners published their late manifesto I proposed it to him to take the benifit of the same & serve us in his present Capacity. He undertook, tho’ I am informed has not actually been formally sworn &c. By this you will readily perceive that he is not a Person incog., but being considered as one of their friends has a better opportunity of acquainting himself with their proceedings—Now should he be recalled, I fear his future usefulness would cease, & perhaps his person be in danger on his return; unless he should come off incog. for a little time. However from this stating, your Excellency will judge of the propriety of such a measure, & as may be tho’t proper so will I direct him.
I recd 30 Guineas of Colo. Henley on your Excellency’s order, which I shall remit as sparingly as may be tho’t best—will moreover propose to C—- to make use of continental bills in paying some of his Couriers, if they will pass, agreeable to directions. I am &c. &c.

  B. Tallmadge


Title: General Orders, 12 December 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

    Head-Quarters Rariton [N.J.] Saturday December 12th 1778.
    Parole RamapawC. Signs Rariton Ringwood—

  At a General Court-Martial held at Elisabeth-Town December 5th 1778—by order of Major Genl Lord Stirling Coll Shreve President, Major John Conway of the 4th Jersey Regiment was tried for wilfully

    and insolently countermanding the orders of Coll Ogden then Commandant of the Brigade; After due deliberation, the Court are of Opinion that Major Conway wilfully countermanded Coll Ogden’s order, but that he did not insolently do it and that Majr Conway as Officer of the day had a right to countermand Coll Ogden’s order; For though Colonel Ogden was commanding Officer of the Brigade, yet he was not of the Post: The Court are further of opinion that Major John Conway be acquitted with honor.
The Commander in Chief confirms the opinion of the court—Major Conway to be released from his Arrest.


Title: To George Washington from John Parke Custis, 12 December 1778
From: Custis, John Parke
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from John Parke Custis, 12 Dec. 1778. On 2 Jan. 1779 GW wrote Custis: “Your Letter of the 12th of last Month from Williamsburg is got safe to hand.”


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 12 December 1778
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

    Dear Sir
    Trenton [N.J.] 12 Dec. 1778

  I have your Excellency’s favour of the 7th before me, & have dispatched orders for the removal of the live stock & Provisions from those parts of monmouth w[h]ere they are most in danger of falling

    into the Enemy’s hands to places of greater safety—As our Assembly will rise to day, I shall expect your dispatches at Elizabeth Town, & have the honour to be with great respect your Excellencys.