Title: General Orders, 29 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters near Dobbs Ferry Sunday July 29th 1781
                     Parole Bretaigne
                     Countersigns Montpellier
                  Rochfort
                  For the day tomorrow
                  Major General Lord StirlingColonel ButlerFor Picquet  Major CliftInspector  Captain RemickThe Commander in Chief requests the Company of the Majors of the Picquet at dinner the day succeeding their tour of duty.
                  Commanding officers of Corps are desired to see that their Men are provided with stoppers for their Musquets.


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 29 July 1781
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Philadelphia July 29th 1781

                  I have the honor to recommend to your Excellencys notice the bearer Capt. Selin who is Soliciting a Captaincy in Hazens Regiment.  As he have Served with me I take the Liberty of assuring your Excellency that he is truly a Deserving officer And will do honor to the appointment if confered upon him.  I have the Honor to be with much respect your Excellencys most obedt Servt

                     Jno. Sullivan


Title: General Orders, 30 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Monday July 30th 1781
                     Parole Springfield
                     Countersigns Kingstreet
                  Horseneck
                  For the Day tomorrow
                  Major General LincolnLieutenant Colonel C. SmithFor Picquet  Major KnappInspector  Captain DrewThe General observes that it has become a practice in the Army to send the Teams a considerable distance from Camp for the sake of Pasturage during the Night; as it is a circumstance that runs directly counter to his intentions an effectual stop must be immediately put to it; and some plan adopted to furnish the Cattle with Forage at their respective stations there to remain from Retreat beating untill Guard mounting in the morning: when they may be returned to Pasture or continued upon Forage as Circumstances may require.
                  Untill further Orders the Troop is to beat a quarter of an hour after five o’clock for which reason the Music will not practice in the morning untill the Grand Parade is dismissed.


Title: To George Washington from Jabez Bowen, 30 July 1781
From: Bowen, Jabez
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Providence July 30 1781

                  When your Exellincy made the first Requisition on this State for Five Hundred Militia, you informed us that we should be Relieved by the same Number from Massachusetts.  The second Month is now nearly expired, and not more than one Company had arived from that State two Days agone.  provided They send the number Required, is it the intention of your Exellency that this State keep their Body of Militia on Duty at the same Time.
                  I perceive that General Choisey is desirous of having both the Massachusetts and our Militia on at the same Time and that we keep them constantly full.  if this be your Exellencys intention it will be necessary to acquaint us with it immediately otherwise.  we shall not send on a Relief for the next Month which will commence the 8th of August.  Governor Greene has wrote you on this Subject.  but Fancy his Letter must have miscarrid, as no Answer has come to hand.  Wishing you Health and a Glorious Campaign I Remain Your Exellencys Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant

                     Jabez Bowen


Title: To George Washington from Caleb Brewster, 30 July 1781
From: Brewster, Caleb
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Fairfield July 30th 1781

                  This day I arrived from Long Island the latest Intelligence I could Obtain was Friday last—Of the Sailing of Admiral Graves from Sandy Hook for Virginia, for the purpose of Conveying Lord Cornwallis, with his Fleet & Army at New York.
                  Lieut. Genl Reisdel is on Board a Fleet with German Troops Consisting of between Seven & Five Hundred—& Bound for Canada, which is In Consequence of the Arrival of a Sloop of War, Informing, that a fleet Consisting of Twelve Sail of the Line & Ten Thousand Troops had sailed from Brest for Canada.
                  The above Intelligence was Received from Mr Culper.
                  Inclosed is the Draft of the Fort at Lloy’ds Neck.  I am sir, with the Greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Humble Servant

                     Caleb Brewster


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 30 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                  Dr Sir

                     Head Quarters Dobb’s Ferry 30th July 1781

                  Yesterday I was honored by the Receipt of your Excellency’s Favor of the 28th inst.  Sensible of the Importance of supporting the Northn & Western Frontier of your State, Measures were taken for that Purpose, by calling for the Militia of the State of Massachusetts, as early as the Resolution for drawing down the Regular Troops was adopted—and my Letter of the 25th June, requesting Governor Hancock to order 600 Militia from the Western Counties of that State to march to Albany, was forwarded to him without Delay—this Requistion I had Reason to suppose had been early complied with, untill your Favor informed the contrary. In Confidence however that the orders have before this Time been given—but that no further Delay may happen I have this Day addressed Govr Hancock on the Subject, requesting that my Requisition may be fully & punctually complied with.
                  I am happy in being well assured of your Excellency’s Zeal & activity in forwarding the Levies of this State of Public Service—and trust they will be in Readiness by the Time you mention—You will assure yourself Sir!  a most hearty Welcome on my Part, whenever your Convenience will admit your paying a Visit to Camp.  I have the Honor to be with every Sentiment of Respect & Regard Your Excellency’s Most Obedient humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 30 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                  My Dear Sir

                     Head Quarters near Dobbs Ferry 30th July 1781

                  With peculiar Satisfaction I do myself the Honor to acknowlege the Receipt of your several Favors of the 10th 14th & 16th of May last—with that of the 22nd of June—and to assure you at the same Time, that it is with the warmest pleasure I express my full Approbation of the various Movements and Operations which your Military Conduct hath lately exhibited; while I confess to you that I am unable to conceive what more could have been done, under your Circumstances, than has been displayed by your little persevering & determined Army.
                  Lord Rawdons Reinforcement from England was a most untoward Circumstance; but even this I hope will be surmounted by your good Fortune—You will be informed from the Marquiss of every Circumstance that has taken place in Virginia—a Detatchment from the Army of that brave & fortunate young Nobleman, will I hope, soon arrive to your Assistance in Carolina.
                  By our Movements in this Quarter—the main Army taking a Position near to New York, & making every Preparation for a serious Attempt upon that Place, one very happy Effect has been produced—a Withdraw of considerable Part of the Troops under the Comand of Lord Cornwallis, as a Reinforcement to their Garrison, which for some Time past, have been closely confined to York Island—This Withdraw will probably disappoint their Views of Conquest in Virginia—& will exceedingly embarrass the Prospects of the British Ministry in the proposed Treaty opened at Vienna—a very great Object this, should any thing prevent our obtaining further Success in our Operations against N. York.
                  The Operating Force of the Enemy in the Southern States, being confined in all probability to So. Carolina, will leave the other States in a Condition to afford you such Succours, as with the Aid of the Marquis’s Detatchment, will I hope, enable you to fulfill your Hopes & Wishes in their utmost Extent in your Command. should this Event take place, you may be assured, that added to the Consideration of the public Good which will result therefrom, the Honor that will be thereby reflected on yourself, will afford me the highest Satisfaction.
                  I sincerely wish we had the means of communicating more frequently with each other, than has been lately experienced. A particular Reason, which cannot at present be mentioned, induces me to request, that you will give me the earliest & most minute Information of Events which shall from this Time take place with you—with a circumstancial Detail of the present Situation of the State of So. Carolina—its remaing Strength & operative Force—their Resources towards the Support of an Army—their Extent—with the Places where they may be collected, & securely deposited, with your Force & Position & probable Prospects at the Time, as also the Strength, Position & Circumstances attendg the Enemys Force—the earlier & more circumstancial this Information is transmitted, the more agreable & effective it may possibly be.  I have the Honor to be with perfect Esteem & Regard Dr Sir Your most Obedient & humble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 30 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

                  sir

                     Head Quarters 30th July 1781

                  I did myself the Honor to address your Excellency under the 25th June last—requestg that you would be pleased to order 600, of the Militia of your State, which I Supposed to be raising under a former Requisition, to be sent to Albany for the Protection of the Northern & Western Frontier of the State of N. york—to this Letter (as indeed to several others of much earlier Date) I have not had the Honor of a Reply—so that I am to this Day uninformed if those Orders are yet given—What leads me to fear they are not, is a Letter I have Yesterday received from Govr Clinton, informg that no Militia from your State has arrived at Albany—& inclosing a Copy of Letter dated 23 inst. from — Genl Fellows to Colo. Willet, commandg on the Frontiers—in which he mentions that the Orders for Your raising Militia but recently received in that Part of the State—& that no orders had been received for any Part to march to Albany—under these Circumstances, & from a Consideration of the great Importance of supporting the Frontier by the Aid of Militia, upon the Withdraw of the Regular Troops, (which has already in great Measure taken place)—I am induced again to trouble your Excely—with my most earnest Request, that if your Orders in Concequence of my Requisition of the 25th June, have not yet issued, that they may imediately be sent forward—I am &ca

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 30 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                     My dear MarquisHead Quarters near Dobbs’s Ferry 30th July 1781

                  I have had the pleasure of receiving your favors of the 8th and 20th instants.  The first releived me from much anxiety, as I had seen Mr Revingtons account of the Action at Green Spring, which you may suppose was highly coloured in their favor.
                  I find by your last that neither my letter of the 29th of June or that of the 13th inst. had reached you—I cannot tell the dates of those previous as I have but few papers with me—I will confess to you that I have written much seldomer than I wished to do, but it has been owing to the very great danger to which dispatches were exposed while Lord Cornwallis was in possession of the Country.
                  You ask my opinion of the Virginia Campaign?  Be assured, my dear Marquis, your Conduct meets my warmest approbation, as it must that of every body—Should it even be said that my attachment to you betrayed me into partiality, you have only to appeal to facts to refute any such charge: but I trust there will be no occasion.
                  I very much approve of your intention of reinforcing General Greene as soon as circumstances will admit and as strongly as possible—If he can only maintain the advantage he has already gained in the Carolinas and Georgia the British Ministry will make a very different figure in the political scene to what it is plain they expected from Ld George Germaine’s letters of March last.
                  I refer you to my private letter which accompanies this and am with the tenderest Regard My dear Marquis yr most obt and hble servt.

                     P.S.  The Maps you mention have not come to hand.  Your servant may perhaps have them.  He did not come himself to Head Quarters.  the Letters were received from an Express.


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 30 July 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear General
                     Malbern Hill july 30th 1781

                  Your letter of the 13th is just Come to Hand.  The Moment a perfect Intelligence Can Be Got, Major Mcpherson will be Dispatched—  But Some Expressions in Your last favor will, if possible, Augment My Vigilance in keeping You well Apprised of the Ennemy’s Movements.
                  There are in Hampton Road Thirty Transport Ships full of troops—Most of them Red Coats—  There are eight or ten Brigs which Have Cavalry on Board—  They Had Excellent winds and Yet they Are not Gone—  Some Say they Have Received Advices from Newyork in a Row Boat—  the Escort, as I mentionned Before, is the Charm and Several frigates—the last Account Says Seven.
                  The light Infantry, Queen’s Rangers, and two British Regiments are, I think, on Board—  two German Regiments are it Seems Destined to the Same Service—  I Cannot Be positive, and do not Even think Lord Cornwallis Has Been fully determined—  I Have got in portsmouth many people that Watch His Motions—But None Has Been able to Slip out—  His Lordship went to Old point Comfort—Had a Survey taken of the properest place to Build a fort—Had the Soundings Examined—and Returned to Portsmouth with General Leslie.
                  This State is So difficult to Be defended that One false Step involves the one that Does not Command the water into a Series of Inconveniences—  His Lordship Has taken pilots for the Bay and for Pottowmack—  this, I Suppose, is a feint, But a March South of  james River throws me out of Supporting Distance for Any thing that is North of it--  A March to the North Gives the Ennemy Command of Every thing South of the River.
                  Two Battaîllons of Light Infantry and the Militia are at this place, the Healthiest and Best watered Spot in the State—General Waîne at Goode’s Bridge on Appamatox with the Pennsylvanians and Virginia Continentals—and looks towards Roenoke or Pottowmak—  Müllemberg with a Bataîllon of Light Infantry Some Riflemen and the Horse Has an Intermediary Position Betwen me and Suffolk in the Neighboorod of which Moves a party of Militia under Clel Parker—  General Weedon is in person at Frederiksburg and the Moment a fleet Appears will Call out the Militia—  Gregory is on the other Side of the Dismal Swamp—  I Cannot Hear from Him, But Sent Him orders By a Safe Hand to Call out the Militia, mount Some Cannon at the passes, and take out of the way Every Boat which Might Serve the Ennemy to Go to North Carolina.
                  You know, My Dear General, that With a very trifling transportation, they May Go By water from Portsmouth to Wilmington—  The only way to Shut up that passage is to Have an Army Before Portsmouth and Possess the Head of these Rivers—A Movement which Unless I was Certain of a Naval Superiority Might Prove Ruinous—  But Should a fleet Come in Hampton Road And Should I get Some days Notice our Situation would Be very Agreable.
                  I am Endeavouring to Get a Cavalry, and it is not without trouble—  transportation is a Great objection to the formation of Magazines—  A Naval Superiority would also level that difficulty—  it Appears a pretty large Body of troops Have Been Sent to Kemp’s Landing—Some Cannon Removed from Portsmouth—But Nothing that Can Make His Lordship’s intentions Perfectly Understood—  Any Certainty of a Naval Superiority, I would wish to know Instantly, as then I will give His lordship every opportunity to go up the Rivers.  With the Highest Respect and Most tender affection, My dear general Yours

                     Lafayette

                     There is a chain of expresses—  But I Shall See that it is More properly Conducted.
                     An Hessian deserter just Arrived Says He Understood from His Comrades that the whole But 800 Germans was to embark—But Your Excellency knows no Great dependence is to Be put on those people.


Title: To George Washington from Alexander McDougall, 30 July 1781 to 31 July 1781
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     West Point July 30th-31 1781

                  I was duly honored with your Excellencys favors of the 21st, 25th, and 27th Instant.  Scarsity of paper obliges us to be silent at this Post, oftener than we wish.  Your Pleasure signified in those Letters has been, as it always will be, punctually attended to.  The Militia have arrived in such small parties, and the whole so inconsiderable that I concluded, it would make no alteration, in your disposition, till the returning day, or I should have reported their Arrival.  Those who have arrived, are only, from Connecticut, and of those two fifths are boys.
                  The Recruits reported to your Excellency to have been at Fish Kill, were some of those Militia.  I take the Liberty to inclose you, the General Return of the Garrison, and a particular one of the Militia, to the hour of compleating this dispatch.  By the former of these, it will appear, that a detachment of Colonel Cortlandts is arrived here, (four Companies) but the light Corps is not among them: That of Colonel Vanscaiks left this, yesterday to join the Army; when the other arrives, it will be sent down, with all possible dispatch.  The detachment brought from Albany, thirty eight new Boats.  I am informed it is in Contemplation to break up the issuing Post at the Continental Village: No Man is more solicitous, than I am, to reduce unnecessary Posts, but I am persuaded from five Years experience, this cannot be ranked among that Class: And the trial will convince us, that untill we have the free and uninterrupted Navigation of the North River, that Post cannot be dispensed with and it will in my opinion be broke up, in its important use, if the Issues there are discontinued.  I have the honor to be Your Excellencys most obedient and most humble Servant

                     Alexr McDougall

                     July 31st 8 in the Morning


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 30 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                  sir

                     Head Quarters Dobb’s Ferry 30th July 1781

                  I have the Honor to acknowlege the Receipt of your Excellency’s Favor of the 26th inst. covering a Correspondence between the Marquiss Lefayette & Earl Cornwallis—I am obliged by this early Transmission of the Papers—& have the Honor to concur in sentiment with your Excellency in the probable future Movement of the Enemy under Comand of His Lordship—This Conjecture is indeed already verefied in part, by the Arrival of a Fleet at the Hook last Friday, havg on Board two Battalions of Infantry & part of the Legion—this Intelligence is brot me by a Deserter just now come in from N. York.
                  The Army under my imediate Comand, remains in the Position it has held for some Time past—how soon the States will enable me, by a Supply of the requested Succours, to move nearer to the Enemy, is a Point, still attended with great Uncertainty.
                  I take the Liberty to send under Cover to your Excellency, the inclosed Letter for the Marquiss illegible and beg your particular Care & attention that it may be forwarded by a safe & early Conveyance.  I have the Honor to be with the Highest Esteem & Regard Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Silvanus Seely, 30 July 1781
From: Seely, Silvanus
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Morris Town July 30th 1781

                  I received yours of the 27th this morning and am sorry to find your Excellency has been misinformd (In regard to the Militia going home,) for what men have been collected are here still.
                  I should have wrote before this, but I was informed by Colo. Dayton that it was your Excellencys Orders, that as soon as I had three hundred men collected, I was either to march on with them, or send them on under proper Officers to Join the Jersey Brigade, & as I have not been able to get but about half that number, therefore thought it not Necessary.
                  I have used every method in my power to have the men collected, but all has hitherto proved Inefectual.
                  Inclosed you have a return of those already collected I shall march them on agreeable to Direction.  I am your Excellencies Most Obedt Humle servt

                     Silvanus Seely


Title: From George Washington to Anthony Wayne, 30 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

                  Dear Sir

                     Head Quarters Dobb’s Ferry 30th July 1781

                  I with the greatest Pleasure received your Acco. of the Action at Green Spring—as I had just before seen it thro’ the Channel of Mr Rivingston and you may therefore suppose in the most unfavorable Light—The Marquis de la Fayette speaks in the hansomest Manner of your own Behaviour & that of the Troops under your Comand in the Action.
                  I think the Account which Lord Cornwallis will be obliged to render of the State of Southern Affairs will not be very pleasing to the Ministerial Eyes & Ears, especially after what appear to have been their Expectations by their intercepted Letter of March last.
                  I am in hopes that Virginia will be soon if not before this Time so far relieved as to permit you to march to the Succour of Genl Greene, who with a handfull of Men has done more than could possibly have been expected—should he be enabled to maintain his Advantages in the Carolina’s & Georgia, it cannot fail of having the most important political Consequences in Europe.
                  Be pleased to make my Compliments to Colonels Butler & Stewart & the Gentlemen of the Line—I cannot but feel myself interested in the Welfare of those to whose gallant Conduct I have so often been a Witness.  I am, with sincerest Esteem Dear Sir Your most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 31 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters near Dobbs Ferry Tuesday July 31st 1781
                     Parole Montmorency
                     Countersigns Strasburgh;
                  Havre
                  For the Day TomorrowMajor General HoweLieutenant Colonel MellenFor Picquet  Major KeithInspector  Captain SmithThe Light Companies of the first and second regiments of New York (upon their arrival in Camp) with the two companies of York Levies under command of Captains Sackett and Williams will form a Battalion under command of Lieutenant Colonel Hamilton and Major Fish.
                  After the formation of the Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Hamilton will join the Advanced Corps under the Orders of Colonel Scammell.
                  At a Division General Court Martial held by order of Major General Lincoln whereof Colonel Putnam was President.
                  John Howley Private in the seventh Massachusetts regiment charged with "Desertion" was tried found guilty, and sentenced to suffer Death.
                  The Commander in Chief approves the sentence but from the late good behaviour of the Army he is induced to pardon him expecting his future behaviour will be such as may justify this act of Clemency.
                  The Brigade Quarter Masters and Conductors and the regimental Clothiers are called on to deliver in person at the Adjutant General’s Office at Orderly time tomorrow an exact account of every Article in their several Departments delivered to and return’d by the different regiments they act for, between the time of making the Last Returns before the Army moved to Peekskill and this day, inclusive.
                  The Brigade Commissaries will at the same time deliver a Return of the number of Rations issued to each regiment between the first of June last and this day inclusive distinguishing the number drawn in June and that in July.
                  The Assistant Inspector General will himself superintend the Mustering and inspecting the Regiments of Infantry now in Camp on the following days and in the following order vizt.
                  August 2dA.M.the first and second Connecticut and first Massachusetts regiments.P.M.second Massachusetts, first New Hampshireand third Massachusetts regiments.3d A.M.the fifth and fourth Connecticut andseventh Massachusetts regiments.P.M.the eight Massachusetts second NewHampshire and ninth Massachusetts regiments.4thA.M.The third Connecticut, Olneys, and fourthMassachusetts regimentsP.M.The fifth, tenth, and sixth Massachusettsregiments.The Muster rolls and other accounts are to be prepared accordingly and the regiments excused duty on the days on which they are Mustered.
                  The Regimental Quarter masters will be provided with Inventories of the several Articles delivered by them and supposed to be in the possession of the Field and staff officers and the different Companies of their respective regiments as they are all to be produced at the time of Inspection.


Title: From George Washington to William Dobbs, 31 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Dobbs, William

                     SirHead Quarters, Phillipsburgh 31 July 1781

                  On the receipt of this, I wish to procure a number of those Pilots that you formerly engag’d, and who are particularly acquainted with the Navigation of the Hook & North River, and with them repair, as soon as possible to Capt. Dennis’s at Baskenridge, where you’ll continue ’till you receive further orders from Genel Foreman of Monmouth County; after you have procur’d the Pilots, & sent them forward to Baskenridge, I shou’d think it best for you to come by the way of Head Quarters, where you may receive any further Instructions you think necessary.  As you’ll naturally conjecture the reasons for this application, I must enjoin upon you not to mention your thoughts to any body, and as much as possible to prevent the Pilots you engage making known their business.  I am your Most Humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 31 July 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                     private
                     My Dear General
                     Malvern Hill july 31st 1781

                  A Correspondant of Mine Servant to Lord Cornwallis writes on the 26th july at Portsmouth, and Says His Master, Tarleton, and Simcoe are Still in town But Expect to Move—the Greatest Part of the Army is Embarked—There is in Hampton Road one 50 guns ship, and two Six and thirty Guns frigats &c. 18 Sloops loaded with Horses—There Remain But Nine vessels in Portsmouth who Appear to Be getting Ready–Mylord’s Baggage is yet in town—His lordship is So Shy of His papers that My Honest friend Says He Cannot get at them—there is a Large Quantity of Negroes—Very Valuable indeed—But No vessels it Seems to take them off—What Garrison they leave I do not know—I shall take Care, at least, to keep them Within Bounds—the troops I Mentionned in My last to Have Crossed over in Nineteen Boats from Portsmouth to Norfolk were it is Said Going to Sowel’s Point—a Good Embarking place—from what is Said of the Negroes, tho’ it is not very plain, I Should Rather think they are Working on the Water Side—My Accounts from Portsmouth are later than the fellow’s Epistle, But as a Servant Has opportunities to Hear I thought it was Worth Communicating to Your Excellency.
                  General Müllemberg with a Corps of Light infantry, Riflemen and Horse is Moving towards Portsmouth—But altho’ I do not think they are Going up the Rivers or the Bay, the less So as they Have Made a parade of taking pilots on Board, I Had Rather Act on the Cautious Scale, and By keeping a Supporting position Leave no Chance to His lordship to out Maneuvre us.
                  Should a french fleet Now Come in Hampton Road the British army would, I think, Be ours.
                  I am litterally following Your Excellency’s Instructions, and Shall Continue to do So to the Best of My power—I am Impatiently waiting for the officer You Have Mentionned—Major Galvan Having Returned to the Grand Army, I would Be Happy to See Him Replaced By Major Trescot—Notwistanding the Extreme fatigues of the Campaign, our Light infantry is Much Improved in point of Discipline and Maneuvres.
                  No News from General Greene.  He Had Hopes to Maneuvre Rawdon down to Charlestown—Our Army there Has the Advantage of the Ennemy on one point wiz. an Excellent Cavalry which in that Country Makes up for other Disadvantages—By Intelligences Direct from Charlestown, I find that the Reinforcement Consisted of at least 1500 men who Had Been Made to Believe they were Sent to a peacefull Garrison—They Had Brought their wives and Expected to Live Very Comfortable—But on their Being ordered out they Revolted and were not Quelled without difficulty—General Williamson the Same who was at Savahana, and afterwards took protection, Has Been taken within 6 Miles of Charlestown.
                  I am Going to Send a flag to Lord Cornwallis—I owe Him the justice to Say that His Conduct to me Has Been peculiarly polite, and Many Differences Betwen Commissaries very Graciously adjusted By Him to My Satisfaction.  With the Highest Respect and Most tender affection I Have the Honor to Be My dear General Your Most obedient Humble Servant

                            Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 31 July 1781
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear GeneralCamp July 31st 1781

                  From the friquent applications made to me this morning for passes to the Inhabitants to pass through Camp in Search of Horses, Cattle &c., said to be taken from them, carried down to the Enemys Lines, and by us brought back, I am convinced that under pretence of this search a good account may be taken of our Situation and Numbers, as every Tent may be told and the fullest representation made thereof to the Enemy.
                  That the Inhabitants may have Justice done them, with security to the Army, I beg leave to propose that all Horses and Cattle taken below either by the American or French Troops be enrolled at the Waggon Master General’s office with their natural and Artificial marks.  When any of the Inhabitants apply, they should be called on to give in the description of his Beast lost, that compared with the record, an immediate determination may be had whether any such are in our possession.  I am Dear General your Obt: Servant

                     B. Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Moore, 31 July 1781
From: Moore, Joseph
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     East Windsor July 31st 1781

                  After some Consideration on the Propriety of the step I was about to take I have determined to trouble your Excellency with this letter, For tho it may appear Extraordinary that a Brittish officer should in this manner apply for his Exchange, Yet as there seems to be little prospect that an Event so desirable and with respect to myself so important in its consequences should take place in the usual way, I have been induced to take this method, and I perswade myself that in representing my case I shall give occasion for the Excercise of those humane and benevolent virtues by which Your Excellencys Character is so Eminently distinguished, It is now several months since by letters from home I received the melancholly account of my Fathers death and I must Consider it as an aggravation of so heavy a Calamity that by dying intestate he has left to me the charge of a numerous Family who by this misfortune have been intirely dependant on the affection of their Brother is this Situation of things it will readily occur to Your Excellency that as Heir at law my presence must be absolutely necessary for the Arrangement of those domestick concerns which must otherwise remain in their present state of perplexity and Confusion.  I have thought it sufficient barely to mention those Circumstances and will leave it to You, Sir to make those Reflections which the case will naturally suggest and which it would be Equally unnecessary and presumptuous in me to anticipate I think it is however necessary to add that in my earnest desire to get home I some time ago laid a state of my case before Col. Wood and through him applyed to the Board of War Either for my Exchange or for leave to go to New York or Parole where I imagined it might be easily effected and that Gentleman had so little doubt of Succeeding in his application that he gave me his leave to remain at Lancaster untill he should receive an answer to his dispatches in the mean time however Brigd. Genl Hamilton thought proper to order me to proceed to N. England with the other officers of Convention Major Roberts who does me the Honor of Conveying this letter to Your Excellency has it in his power to acquaint you not only with the facts above stated but also with the different Measures which I have hitherto ineffectually taken to obtain my Parole.  I have the Honor to be with the Greatest respect your Excellency’s most obedient most Humble Servt

                     Joseph Moore Lieut. 20th Regt


Title: To George Washington from Francisco Rendón, 31 July 1781
From: Rendón, Francisco
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia July 31st 1781.

                  I have the Satisfaction to acknowledge the receipt of both Letters, Your Excellency did me the honor to write under the dates of  21st Ulto and 13th Instt.  The first Congratulates me on the happy Event acquired by the Glorious Arms of the King my Master by the Conquest of Pensacola.  and in the Second Your Excellency acquaint me to have received my Letter of the 14th and also, all the Articles mention’d in the List which went Inclosed in it.
                  I now give Your Excellency my most respectfull thanks for the Sincere remostration of Joy on the good Exit of that Conquest, as well for having done me the honor to accept the Small token of my respects which I took the Liberty to present Your Excellency with.
                  I have the pleasure of announcing Your Excly Mrs Washington’s perfect State of health, with whom I have had the Honor to have dined at different periods while her Stay in this City, and Yesterday Spent the afternoon in German Town, at Mr McClenahan’s Seat in Company of diverse Ladys and Gentlemen having after Dinner and Tea were done repaired to this Place, enjoin the same good Health.  I remain with the utmost respect—Sir Your Excellencys most Obedt and most Hble Servt

                     Francisco Rendon


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 31 July 1781
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Hartford 31st July 1781.

                  After setting the Officers in all parts of the State, diligently to collect and march the Men for the Continental Army, the two State regiments, and the 800 three months men for West point, And the Commissaries to drive Beef Cattle for the army, especially what was necessary eastward—Yesterday at evening I came hither to attend on matters in this place—more especially to call on the Collectors of taxes for money for the Army, have sent out four sutable men on the East Side of Connecticut River, and three on the West, to go to every collector in the State to receive what they have, and to the Selectmen in each town to stir them to their duty; Copy of the Resolve of council is enclosed—I intend to tarry here until Wednesday of next week, by that time hope to know the Sum collected for our line of the Army, which I trust will not be less than one months pay and Wages—The sums expended to hire recruites, retards the collection—no exertions will be wanting, whatever can be gathered shall be imediately sent—Mr Bull in the Cloathier’s department at Springfield, this day informs me, that he hath 80 hhds ready, among them about 4,000 shirts but can find no means to move them to the Army, I directed him to write to the Q.M.G.—which he has done, and goes with this.
                  It is my design to remove from hence to some place in the Western extent of this State, an executive Council to be with me, to promote the supplies necessary for the operations of the present Campaign—at what place may we set in safety?  Is there no way to brake up the nest of Associated loyalists at Lloyd’s neck?  they are a pernicious and vexatious body of men.  I am, with every Sentiment of Esteem and Consideration—Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and very hble Servant

                     Jonth; Trumbull


Title: To George Washington from Josiah Bagley, July 1781
From: Bagley, Josiah
To: Washington, George

                     May it Please your Excellency

                        July 1781

                  I am induced by the earnest Solicitations of a number of Soldiers, in behalf of Edmund Burk, soldier in the third New York regiment, now under sentence of Death, to Intreat your Excellencies Clemency in his behalf.
                  Notwithstanding his Crime is of the most Malignant nature, and Subversive of every Idea of Subordination and Discipline, as well as Dangerous to Society, and by which my life was Endangered, Yet, while there are Grounds to hope for his Reformation, I most sincerely wish his life may be Spared.
                  His Comrades have to a man Pledged themselves for his Future good Behaviour, and have promised to Watch his Conduct as minutely as possible, and prevent those Irregularities, to which he has been But too much addicted.
                  The Prisoner appears to be duly Sensible of the Heionousness of his Crime, and the Justice of his Sentence, and most Solemnly Promises an Intire Amendment, and to Devote his Spared life to the service of his Country, with all Possible Assiduity and Submission, Should your Excellency be pleased, in Mercy to Vouchsafe so Inestimable a Favour.
                  I do therefore Chearfully join with the Miserable Criminal and the Soldiers of the Regiment in general Beseeching your Excellency to grant him a Pardon and I hope his Behaviour in all time to come may Evidence that so great Clemency has not been Bestowed in vain.  I am with Deference & Respect Your Excellency’s Most Humble  Obedient Servant
                  Josiah Bagley Ensn 3d N.Y. regiment
                  We the underwritten Officers in the 3d New York regiment do Sincerely join in the above, & Sincerely request your Excellency to grant pardon to the Prisoner above mentioned.

                     Cornl T. Jansen Capt. 3 N.Y. Regt
                     B. Bogardus Lieut. 3d N.Y. Regt
                     D. T. Fonda Ensign
                     Prentice Bowen Lieut.
                     Saml Lewis Ens.
                     John Spoor Ens.


Title: General Orders, 1 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters near Dobbs Ferry Wednesday August 1st 1781.
                            Parole.
                            Countersigns.

                        For the Day Tomorrow
                        Major General Parsons
                        Lieutenant Colonel Sherman
                        For Picquet Major Morrell
                        Inspector Robinson
                        At a General Court Martial whereof Colonel Putnam is President.
                        Micajah Fay a Soldier in the 5th Massachusetts regiment, and William Connor a soldier of the 3d Massachusetts
                            regiment, both charged with "Desertion" were tried and found guilty of a breach of Article 1st Section 6th of the Rules
                            and Articles of War and sentenced each to receive one hundred Lashes on his bare back.
                        John Car of the Seventh and Whitney Shanway of the eighth Massachusetts regiments, both
                            Charged with "Desertion" were tried and found Guilty as above and sentenced each to receive Fifty Lashes on his naked
                            back.
                        Mark Noble a soldier charged with "Desertion" from the first Massachusetts regiment and reinlisting in the
                            Rhode Island Regiment was tried, found guilty of a breach of the first and third Articles Section 6th of the Rules and
                            Articles of War and sentenced to receive one hundred Lashes on his bare back.
                        Sterling Heath of the second New Hampshire regiment, John Smith and Stephen Atkinson of the first New
                            Hampshire regiment charged with "Desertion and attempting to go to the enemy" being convicted, were sentenced each of them
                            to receive one hundred Lashes on his bare back.
                        James Whitmore soldier in the first New Hampshire Regiment, charged with "Desertion" was tried, convicted and
                            sentenced to receive one hundred Lashes on his bare back.
                        At the same Court Ensign Samuel Thompson of the first New Hampshire regiment charged with "Overstaying his
                            furlough upwards of fifteen months and neglecting and refusing to rejoin his regiment when notified and required so to do
                            by the commanding officer of his regiment was tried agreeably to a Resolve of Congress of December 6th 1779 respecting
                            absent officers.
                        The Court are of opinion the charge against Ensign Samuel Thompson is supported and do sentence him to be
                            cashier’d.
                        The Commander in Chief approves the foregoing sentences and orders them to be carried into execution
                            immediately.
                        The prohibitions against plundering any species of Property from the inhabitants of the Country however
                            unfriendly they may be have been repeated so frequently and in such positive terms that the General flatters himself there
                            is no occasion to give any further cautions to the Army on this Subject; but he has been inform’d that some of the
                            followers of the Army and Volunteers not under the orders of any officers have taken advantage of the Position and
                            movement of the Army in some instances to seize the Property of the inhabitants for their own use.
                        In order, to prevent such practices in future and to be in a situation of rendering service to their Country
                            All Volunteers are to be formed into Companies under the Command of an Officer or Officers appointed by the Authority of
                            their State or the Election of the Company: such Officers will report themselves and the State of their Commands to the
                            Adjutant General.
                        Any persons (except such as comply with the foregoing regulation) found with or without Arms in the front
                            flank or Rear of the army who cannot give a good account of themselves are to be apprehended and committed to the Provost.
                        Whenever any Cattle or horses are taken in action or recaptured in any manner from the Enemy they are in the
                            first instance to be produced to the Waggon master General of the American Army who will take a description of them in
                            writing, noting particularly their natural and Artificial marks: He will keep possession of them untill he has reported
                            the matter to the Quarter master General and received his instructions.
                        All applications of people who have Lost Cattle or horses and suppose them to have been retaken are to be
                            made to the Waggon master General whose Register will supersede the necessity of their being permitted to go in search after
                            them through the different Encampments.
                        The three persons who have been engaged to remain with the Guards to discriminate Characters and to give
                            Passes are to attend at the Orderly Office tomorrow morning.
                        One of the retained Guides will continue constantly with the advanced Corps and may be sent with the scouting
                            Parties whenever the Commanding officer thinks proper.
                        Evening Orders
                        The Court Martial whereof Colonel Henry Jackson is president will assemble tomorrow morning at 10 ô Clock for
                            the trial of Lieutenant Bliss of the Artillery.
                        All Evidences and persons concerned are requested to attend.
                        An Orderly Serjeant from each Division and one from the Artillery to attend the Court.


Title: From George Washington to Caleb Davis, 1 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Davis, Caleb

                            sir
                            Head Quarters Dobb’s Ferry 1st Augst 1781.

                        With pleasure I do myself the Honor to acknowlege the Receipt of your Favor of 5th June last—with the two
                            Cheeses & Cask of Porter, which accompanied it.
                        Will you be pleased Sir! to do me the Favor to convey to the Comonwealth of Massachusetts Bay, and to Capt.
                            Sampson, my sincere & respectfull Thanks for this generous & very acceptable Present. I have the Honor to
                            be sir Your most Obedient Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 1 August 1781
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Freehold 1t Augt 1781

                        Since I had The Honr of Writing your Excly on the 23d Ult. I have not been able to Collect any thing from New
                            York More then Reports.
                        Vizt That Adml Grover is gone for Cornwallace and That soome Troops
                            are to be sent from New York to Quebeeck.
                        Enclosed Your Excly has a Diary kept on The Highlands of Niversink from the 28th of July to the 31t Inclusive
                            by that your Excly will Observe the Sailing of a Fleet from New York with some Troops supposed Invalids—There distination
                            is unknown—I find Intilegence more difficult to be Obtained then Usual Occasioned by the refugees being fearfull of going
                            to New York for fear of being detained There.
                        Nothing has yet Transpired amongst us from the dispatch sloop that Arrived from England at New York The
                                20th Ult. She Arrived on Friday and the Next day Grover Sailed but Wheather in Consequence of Any
                            Accts She Brought, or That he was to have saild had as The Sloop Arrived is uncertain, but I belive The Latter.
                        Agreeable to Your Exclys Directions I have Imployed Some Horsemen—at prest They are Ordered Thus: One at
                            Second River, One at New Brunswick & One at This Place—in That Line I shall I presume be Inabled to forward
                            Intilegence from This Place to Dobbs Ferry in 15 Hours from The Time They Leave me—As sone as I Can procure them I will
                            double Every Post in order to prevent any delay in Forwarding the second Accts Otherwise a delay will very probably be
                            Occasioned by the Absince of some or all of the Horsemen in forwarding the first Accts. I have the Honr to be Your Exclys
                            Obdt Humble Servt

                            David Forman


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Mitchell, 1 August 1781
From: Mitchell, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                            Dr Sir,
                            Wyoming August 1st 1781

                        I beg leave to Inform your Excellency that at My takeing the Command of this post I found that the Provisions
                            on hand must of Coarse be soon exhausted; I have therefore takein the most effectual Measures to procure a Supply, for this
                            Post that my most sangine thoughts Could Invent;
                        Flour I have been supplyed with, but Beef I Cannot git Although I have made frequent Applications both to the
                            Govr of Pennsylvana and also to the Purchasing Commissaries. my Issuing Commissary has waited on Govr Reid Mr Shaw and
                            others requesting some small relief if a supply could not be obtaind, I have at last
                            received a Positive answer that none can be had from that Quarter.
                        Two small catle weighing about two Hundred each is all my stock of meat and at longest that will not last me
                            more then six days after that I know not what I must do.
                        I must therefore beg your Excelly that some speedy relief may be forwarded to this Place, or the Consequences
                            may terminate in Mutiny Desertion or a total evacuation of this post.
                        I find some trouble in stilling my men as they have already has seven weeks. Experience
                            of living without meat since they came to this place,except some condemned smooked beef left in the
                            rear of Genl Sullavans Army but that being sold at Vandue by order of the D.C.G. we have no hopes but from you.
                        I have directed the Bearer to call at Head Quarters for an Answer. and pray your Excellency’s would forward my
                            directions by him, and I shall Govern my self Accordingly. I am your Excellencys Obet: and most Humle servt

                            Alexr Mitchell Capt. Comdt


Title: From George Washington to Meshech Weare, 2 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Weare, Meshech

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters near Dobbs’ Ferry Augst 2. 1781.

                        I regret being obliged to inform you that I find myself at this late period very little stronger
                            than I was when the Army first moved out of their Quarters. Of the Militia which were required of the State of New Hampshire & which were to have joined me by the 15th of last Month, none have come in, and of the Levies for the Continental Battalions
                            only thirteen in the course of the last Month. The reinforcements from the
                            other States have been very inconsiderable.
                        I leave you to judge of the delicate and embarrassed situation in which I stand at this moment—Unable to advance with prudence beyond my present position, while perhaps in the general opinion my force is equal to
                            the commencement of operations against New York, my conduct must appear, if not blameable, highly mysterious at least—Our
                            Allies, with whom a junction has been formed upwards of three Weeks, and who were made to expect from the engagements
                            which I entered into with them at Weathersfield in May last, a very considerable augmentation of our force by this time,
                            instead of seeing a prospect of advancing, must conjecture, upon good grounds, that the Campaign will waste fruitlessly
                            away—I shall just remark that it will be no small degree of triumph to our Enemys, and will have a very pernicious
                            influence upon our friends in Europe, should they find such a failure of resource; or such a want of energy to draw it out,
                            that our boasted and expensive preparations end only in idle parade.
                        I cannot yet but persuade myself, and I do not discontinue to encourage our Allies with a hope that our force
                            will still be sufficient to carry our intended operation into effect, or if we cannot fully accomplish that, to oblige the
                            Enemy to withdraw part of their force from the Southward to support New York, and which, as I informed you in my Letter
                            from Weathersfield, was part of our plan.

                            You must be sensible, Sir, that the fulfilment of my engagements must depend upon the
                            degree of vigor with which the Executives of the several States exercise the powers with which they have been vested,
                            and enforce the Laws lately passed for filling up, and supplying the Army—In full confidence that the means which have
                            been voted will be obtained I shall continue my preparations: But I must take the liberty of informing you that it is
                            essentially necessary I should be made acquainted immediately on the receipt of this, of the number of Continental
                            Levies and Militia which have been forwarded and what are the prospects of obtaining the remainder.
                        I will further add, that it will be equally necessary to see that the monthly Quota of Provisions stipulated
                            at the meeting of the Commissioners at Providence is regularly complied with. I am With great regard & esteem Your Most Obedient Servt

                            Go: Washington.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 2 August 1781
From: Heath, William,Alexander, William Lord Stirling
To: Washington, George

                             2 August 1781

                        At a board of general Officers of the american Army held at camp near Dobbs’ ferry August the 2. 1781 by
                            order of his Excellency the Commander in chief to consider three plans for the succession of the Medical department and
                            report thereon.
                        Present

                                Major General Heath

                                Brigadier General Knox

                                Major General Lord Stirling

                                Brigadier General Glover

                                Major General Lincoln

                                Brigadier General Paterson

                                Major General Howe

                                Brigadier General Huntington

                                Major General Parsons

                        The Board having taken the three plans into consideration, beg leave to make the following report.
                        That all the present vacancies of hospital Physicians and Surgeons be filled up by the senior Surgeons of
                            the hospital lately deranged, the eldest hospital Males, or regimental Surgeons, as shall be recommended by the Director
                            and chief Physician & Surgeon to the army.
                        That all future vacancies of hospital Physicians and Surgeons be filled by the eldest regimental Surgeons and
                            hospital Males (who shall be reckoned of equal grades) who shall upon examination be found qualified and obtain a
                            certificate of recommendation from the Director and chief Physician & Surgeon of the army, or of the deputy
                            Director & chief Physician in a separate Department.
                        That the persons requisite to fill the higher grades in the Hospital and medical Departments be appointed
                            from time to time by Congress according to merit and abilities.
                        That the States shall nominate regimental Surgeons to the regiments of their respective lines who shall
                            undergo the examination of the Director and chief Physician and Surgeon to the army and one of the chief Hospital
                            Physicians, or of the Deputy Director and of the chief Physician, in a separate department, and upon their certificate of
                            Approbation shall receive the appointment.
                        That all Surgeons to regiments or corps not belonging to the line of any particular State be nominated by the
                            Director of the Hospitals and the chief Physician and Surgeon of the Army subject to the approbation of the Commander in
                            chief—and shall be equally entitled to promotion to Hospital Physicians and Surgeons with the regimental Surgeons of state
                            lines.

                            W. Heath M. Genl
                            Stirling M.G.
                            B: Lincoln Mr Genl
                            R. Howe M: Genl
                            Saml H. Parsons M. Genl
                            H. Knox B.G. Artillery
                            Jno. Glover B. General
                            John Paterson B. Genl
                            S. Huntington B.G.


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 2 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Dobbs’s Ferry 2d Augt 1781.

                        I regret being obliged to inform Your Excellency, that I find myself, at this late period, very little
                            stronger than I was when the Army first moved out of their Quarters. Of the Militia which were required of the State of
                            New Jersey, and which were to have joined me by the 15th of July, none have come in. I am informed that the first party
                            which rendezvoused at Morris Town returned home for want of subsistence. Of the Levies for the
                            Continental Battalions only three Men have joined in the Course of last Month The reinforcements
                            from the other States have been very inconsiderable.
                        I leave your Excellency to judge of the delicate and embarrassed situation in which I stand at this moment.
                            Unable to advance with prudence beyond my prisent position, while perhaps in the general opinion my force is equal to the
                            commencement of operations against New York, my conduct must appear, if not blameable, highly mysterious at least. Our
                            Allies, with whom a junction has been formed upwards of three Weeks, and who were made to expect, from the engagements
                            which I entered into with them at Weathersfeild in May last, a very considerable augmentation of our force by this time,
                            instead of seeing a prospect of advancing, must conjecture, upon good Grounds, that the Campaign will waste fruitlessly
                            away. I shall just remark that it will be no small degree of  to our Enemies,
                            and will have a very  influence upon our Friends in Europe  they find
                            such a failure of resource, or such a want of energy to draw it out, that our boasted and expensive preparations end only
                            in idle parade.
                        I cannot yet but persuade myself, and I do not discontinue to encourage our Allies with a hope that our force
                            will still be sufficient to carry our intended operation into effect, or if we cannot fully accomplish that, to oblige the
                            Enemy to withdraw part of their force from the southward to support New York, and which, as I informed your Excellency in
                            my letter of the 27th of May, was part of our plan.
                        You must be sensible, Sir, that the fulfilment of my engagements must depend upon the degree of Vigor with
                            which the Executives of the several States exercise the powers with which they have been vested, and enforce the laws
                            lately passed for filling up and supplying the Army. In full confidence that the means which have been voted will be
                            obtained, I shall continue my preparations: But I must take the liberty of informing you, that it is essentially necessary
                            I should be made acquainted, immediately on the receipt of this, with the number of Continental Levies and Militia which
                            have been forwarded, and what are the prospects of obtaining the remainder.
                        I will further add, that it will be equally necessary to see that the specific requisitions of provisions are
                            regularly complied with. I have the honor to be with great Respect and Esteem Your Excellency’s Most obt and hble servt

                            Go: Washington

                            By a letter just recd from Colo. seely I find that only 157 Militia had collected at Morris Town, and
                                that the account of them returning home was premature—I have orderd them on to the Army.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 2 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

Private
                        Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Dobbs’s Ferry 2d Augt 1781.

                        The expectation of the pleasure of seeing you has prevented me hitherto from making a communication of a most
                            important and interesting nature—But circumstances will not admit of further delay, and I must trust it to paper. It
                            seems reduced almost to a certainty, that the enemy will reinforce New York with part of their troops from Virginia—In
                            that case the attempt against the former must be laid aside, as it will not be in our power to draw together a force
                            sufficient to justify the undertaking—The detachment which the enemy will probably leave in Virginia seems the next
                            object which ought to engage our attention, and which will be a very practicable one, should we obtain a naval
                            superiority, of which I am not without hopes, and be able to carry a Body of Men suddenly round by Water. The principal
                            difficulty which occurs, is obtaining transports at the moment they may be wanted: for if they are taken up beforehand,
                            the use for which they are designed cannot be concealed, and the enemy will make arrangements to defeat the plan. What I
                            would therefore wish you to inform yourself of, without making a direct enquiry, is what number of Tons of Shipping could
                            be obtained in Philadaat any time between this and the 20th of this Month and whether there could also be
                            obtained at the same time a few deep waisted sloops and schooners proper to carry Horses The number of double decked
                            Vessels which may be wanted, of 200 Tons and upwards, will not exceed thirty—I shall be glad of your answer as soon as
                            possible, because if it is favorable, I can direct certain preparations to be made in Philada and at other
                            convenient places, without incurring any suspicions. There certainly can be no danger of not obtaining Flour in
                            Philada and as you seem to have doubts of procuring salt Meat there, I shall direct all that which is to the Eastward
                            to be collected at points, from whence it may be shipped upon the shortest notice.
                        You will also oblige me by giving me your opinion of the number of Vessels which might be obtained at
                            Baltimore or other places in Chesapeak in the time before mentioned or thereabouts. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: From George Washington to William Dobbs, 3 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Dobbs, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters August 3d 1781

                        I have rec’d yours of the first instant. The want of money need be no Obstacle to your proceeding upon the
                            Service required, as you will receive a supply for that purpose upon your Arrival here. I am Sir Your most Obedt

                            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 3 August 1781
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Freehold 3d August 1781 9 oClock P.M.

                        I am this Evening Informed and I Think from good Authority that The Fleete from New York are Bound for
                            Quebeck with 1000 Troops for The Garrison at Quebeck, Convoyd by the Warwick and Two or Three Small Frigates—That These
                            Last Accts from the West Indias say The French Fleete was Wooded Watered & Sailed they Supposed for Quebeck or New
                            York—That Adml Rodney is daly expected to make his Appearance off Sandy Hook.
                        My Informant allso adds That a Report has been Brought in by two Vessells That they fell in with Graves’
                            Fleete off Nantaskett—that however he says his Authority for is not so Intirely to be depended on—I would allso mention to
                            your Excly That a Large Store Ship is now laying at sandy Hook with supplies of Provision and Vegetables which to me very
                            strongly denotes there Expectation of The Arrival of a Fleete.
                        I am happy In being able to say That I now am I think fully prepared to have the Motions of the British
                            Fleetes fully attended to and to send forward any Accts to Your Excly with Greate Rapidity when it shall be Necessary—As
                            Adml Rodney may be Expected on This Station if any Private Signalls are affixed upon, my being Acquainted with them would
                            Probably enable me to determin many Hours sooner. I have The Honr to be Your Exclys Most Obdt Humble Servt

                            David Forman


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 3 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Dobbs ferry Augt 3d 1781

                        I this day receiv’d a Letter from the Count Rochambeau, a copy of which is inclos’d, respecting the Militia
                            from the State of Massachusetts, that were some time since requested for the Rhode Island Department; as they have not
                            arrived agreeable to my expectations, I have to request your Excellency to forward them with the utmost dispatch, as it is
                            of the greatest importance that that post is properly secur’d. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect &
                            esteem—Your Excellencys Most Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 3 August 1781
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Camp August 3d 1781

                        I have, my dear General, agreeable to your Wishes, made some Observations on the Situation of Charles-Town,
                            the Strength of its Works, the Number of Men necessary to garrison it, and the point or points by which it may be
                            approached.
                        The Town of Charles-Town is situated on a Peninsula formed by the Cooper and the Ashley; the former about
                            two & a Half Miles wide, and the latter about one and a Quarter. These Rivers are navigable between twenty
                            & thirty Miles inland. The Town has in its Front and partly on its Right James Island (which is seperated from the
                            Main by Wappoo Cut, which is the Communication between the Stono and the Ashley) at two thousand Yards Distance—The Town
                            Islands, upon a sandy Plain, from East to West, about eight hundred Yards, and about double that Distance from South to
                            North. At about twelve hundred Yards from the south Point, the Salt Marshes indent East & West until they approach
                            within about eight hundred Yards of each other; which affords a very advantageous Spot for an internal Line of Works, as
                            the Marshes are impassable for any Thing but Troops and can easily be rendered very difficult for them. The Conflux of the
                            Ashley & Cooper is just in Front of the Town, in a large barred Harbour formed by Haddrell’s Point, Sullivan’s
                            Island, and the Head of Long Island on the East, and by James Island & Coffin Island, on the West—Within the
                            Harbour there is a sufficient Depth of Water for any Ship—On the Bar but about sixteen Feet—a fifty Gun Ship is the
                            largest ever brought into the Harbour, and that was effected by taking out her Guns. On the East of the Town, from it
                            about nine hundred Yards, lies a Body of Marsh, called Shute’s Folly: between this and the Town the Vessels generally pass
                            up the Cooper, though they may pass, on the East of it, through a crooked narrow & difficult Passage.
                        That your Excellency may at one View see the Situation of the Town, Harbour, neighbouring River, and adjacent
                            County, I have annexed a small Plan of them. I think it is true in general, and marked thereon the Places I have referred
                            to, in these Observations.
                        As your Excellency has in your Possession a Plan of the several Works and a particular Discription of them, I
                            need only observe that they are generally composed of a sandy, loose Soil, easily penetrated and thrown down. The Town is
                            in two Points uncovered and exposed to an Attack by Water: Almost the whole Extent, on the East Side, from the
                                Governor’s Bridge to a Work on the Flank, near the Front Line, is open, as also the Extent from
                            Harleston’s Green to the Work near the Sugar House on the West. Some difficulty would attend a Landing at either of the
                            Points as the Marshes in Front, which have been thought a Cover, are interspersed with Creeks and Canals; but determined
                            Troops with a few Hurdles would, probably, subdue every Difficulty and make their Landing good, provided there should be a
                            Feint made at some, and real Attacks, at other Points. These are the only two Places at which you might attempt a Landing,
                            without being under the Fire of some of the Enemy’s Works.
                        From the Extensiveness of the Lines, I suppose six thousand Men are necessary to man them, if they lose the
                            Command of the Harbour and they may be attacked on every Side.
                        Troops must land prior to the Ships entering the Harbour, and take Possession of James Island; otherwise,
                            were the Ships within the Bar, they would find no Asylum in any Part of the Harbour, or any Place where
                            they could land the Stores so as to be of Use.
                        The Troops may debark either on the North or South Side of the Harbour some of the Advantages of each I will
                            mention. There are several Inlets North of the Harbour & Long Island, where the Troops & Stores may be put
                            on Shore, and the Vessels lie with Safety. The Troops may be then marched to the Head of Wando & near the Head of
                            Cooper, and then down to the Lines before Charles-Town—This Route will be good, & in Extent
                            about seventy Miles. Or Your Excellency may land, and take Possession, in the first Instance, of Lamprie’s Point, where
                            the Wando falls into the Cooper (fifteen Miles March)—This would be a convenient Place for a Grand Depository, and easily
                            fortified—The Troops might then march to the Head of Cooper River, or wherever they could find Means to cross it, and take
                            Possession of the Ground in Front of the Enemy’s Lines. This will put into your Hands a Piece of high Ground, near Cooper
                            River, opposite Daniel’s Island—A Work on this Eminence and another on the Island will secure the Navigation of the
                            Cooper; and keep open a Communication between your Left and Lamprie’s Point, so that the Stores may be transported by Land
                            about fifteen Miles, and three by Water. I think it would add to the Safety of the Stores, to pass the Head of Wando and
                            deposite them on the Banks of the Cooper north of Lamprie’s Point, but it would increase the Land Carriage.
                        Stono Inlet south of Charles-Town Bar, is the most convenient Harbour for the Transports; and there the
                            Troops & Stores might be landed with the greatest Ease, provided the Enemy have not erected Works on the Banks of
                            the River on John’s & James Islands The Stores might be landed near Hudson’s House on James Island, not far from
                            the West Mouth of Wappoo Cut, or taken into Boats and landed on the North Side of the Cut near the Ashley; Where they must
                            be covered by strong Works, or by large Body of Men, for the Enemy might otherwise destroy them, by throwing their Troops
                            suddenly across the River. From the Depository they can be carried across Land, two or three Miles, to a Creek, which
                            empties into the Ashley opposite to Gibbs’s Plantation, a good Landing, and little in the Rear of the Ground, on which the
                            Enemy incamped when they were before our Lines. After the Stores are well covered at these Points by good Works, a Work
                            erected on James Island to cover the Shipping, should they enter the Harbour—Fascines, Gabions, Hurdles, and every
                            necessary Article provided for a speedy Operation against the Enemy’s Works as soon as you arrive before them, and after a
                            suitable Number of Negroes and other Labourers (if to be had) are collected to assist the Troops carrying forward the
                            Approaches, the Army should march to the Head of the Ashley, unless they can find Means to cross it before, and move down in
                            Force.
                        I think the Enemy would not advance Works far from those already erected: If they should attempt it, they
                            will expose their left Flank, and give an Opportunity of throwing Troops across the River between their two Lines—And this
                            would not be a very difficult Movement, if, at the same Time, it should be attempted, the Enemy be attacked in Front by
                            the Troops who have crossed the River higher up. If the Enemy should not advance their Works, all our Stores may be landed
                            at Gibbs’s Plantation; if they should, we must cross them further up River until we can command the Communication below.
                        Stono River is, beyond a Doubt, the most eligible Harbour for the Transports, and the most convenient Place
                            for landing the Men and the Stores; but if the Enemy have so possessed themselves of the Banks of the
                            River as to prevent this, the Fleet may anchor in North Eddisto, the Troops debark on the Main
                            & on John’s Island, march near the Banks of Stono and cover their Boats to Wappoo; and with them the Troops may be
                            thrown over to James Island for the Purpose of reducing the Enemy’s Works there, which will open a safe Port for the Fleet
                            in Stono River, & give a convenient Landing for all our Stores.
                        But if it should be thought that this Attempt would cause Delay & expend too much of our Time, which
                            I do not believe would be the Case, the Troops might be landed at PonPon or Jacksonburgh, & march to the Enemy’s
                            Lines by the Head of the Ashley, a Route of about forty Miles—a long Distance to transport Ordnance & Ordnance
                            Stores in a Country where Teams are scarce—This, though long is preferable to the one I first mentioned over the Head of
                            the Cooper; but the second by Lamprie’s Point is vastly more eligible than either of the three—Stono is undoubtedly the
                            one, which is to be chosen in Preference to either, if to be possessed.
                        The Force in Town & our Knowledge of their Supplies must always determine the Number necessary to
                            besiege it. If it be fully garrisoned & supplied, nothing short of a regular Siege will reduce it, for there are
                            so many Embarrassments, which would attend to the Approaches to the Town, that it would be difficult, if not impossible,
                            to surprise it.
                        If Troops should sit down before the Town, they must take Post on a Plain (in Front of the Enemy’s Works) no
                            Part of which has Nature made suitable for a strong Encampment; therefore the Camp must be covered by Lines, or be at some
                            considerable Distance—otherwise it will be constantly annoyed by the Enemy’s Fire.
                        Numbers will be essential; for heavy Detachments must be made to cover the several Depositories & to
                            keep open a Communication—And the Approaches should be as rapid as possible, to prevent the Enemy from throwing up a
                            second Line where the Marshes indent as I mentioned before. Should they effect this, a Possession of their first Line will
                            be but the first Parallel from which to approach their second. Numbers are also necessary & our Approaches should
                            also be rapid, because the Climate is unhealthy & a long Siege would be injurious to the Troops and because the
                            heavy Ships, which are to cover the Siege, cannot enter any Harbour south of Chesapeak, & must therefore anchor in
                            the Ocean, or ply off & on, during their whole Stay on the Coast, both of which are dangerous, if near in Shore,
                            especially in the Spring & in the Months of September and October—In the Winter it could not be attempted
                            with any Degree of Safety—For these & many other Considerations it is necessary that the Siege should be conducted
                            with Vigour, and the Approaches made with the greatest Rapidity. In Order to effect this fully, I think the Besiegers
                            should exceed the besieged as three to one. I have the honor to be my Dear General with the highest esteem Your
                            Excellency’s most obedient servant

                            B. Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from Alexander McDougall, 3 August 1781 to 6 August 1781
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            West Point 3d-6 August 1781

                        Last Monday an Officer of the Corps of Invalids from Boston, came to this Post for orders, expecting they
                            would reach Fish Kill the next day.
                        He was ordered to releive the Guard at that place, as their Number is competent for it: But as I have not
                            heard from the Officer commanding, I conclude they have not arrived.
                        Last night those from Philadelphia arrived here, they are in a truly wretched and pitiable Condition, fitter
                            Subjects of a good Hospital, than to compose part of this Garrison, where Strength and activity are necessary to collect
                            wood and water for their own use. Till the Cold Season sets in, they may take Care of themselves, but can afford no
                            Strength to the Garrison, then they must have assistance from others, or perish.
                        I take the Liberty to inclose a Return of their Number, and that of the Strength of the Massachusets Militia,
                            which have arrived since I had the honor to address you. I have also transmitted the Sentence of a General Court Martial,
                            against Edmund Burke and Garret Lansing, of Colonel Vanscaik’s Regiment, as I do not conceive myself authorized to decide
                            on their Case.
                        There are three Soldiers of Artillery, left here under sentence of Death, besides those I mentioned to your
                            Excellency in a former Letter. Burke is a very bad fellow  and has more than once excited Mutinies in that
                            Regiment, and it is the General opinion of the Officers, whatever may be the Result of his Sentence, he ought not to join
                            the Regiment for Corporal punishment has proved ineffectual to reclaim him.
                        Colonel Hughes has represented to me, that the Boat Builders at Wappings Creek are greatly distressed with
                            large Families, not having received any pay for near two years, and that they are earnestly sollicited to enter into
                            another Service, on advantagious terms, which they will accept, unless they are furnished with the number of Rations in
                            the inclosed List, for which they are willing to pay out their wages due to them. The number of Rations are so great, that
                            I did not conceive myself at Liberty to comply with their request, as I do not know the prospect we have of being supplied:
                            But assured him, I would write your Excellency on the Subject, and communicate your determination, as soon as I received
                            it. I have the honor to be your Excellencys most humble Servant

                            Alexr McDougall
                            August 6th 1781

                            Forty five more rank and file of the Connecticut Militia have arrived  Since the last return.
                                Secretary Trumbull’s Letter of the 4th instant is received giving an account of a spy Sent out by
                                the Enemy. The light Company of Col. Cortlandt is come down, and will move to morrow; some necessary
                                repairs of Arms have detained him here Since Saturday.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas McKean, 3 August 1781
From: McKean, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia August 3. 1781

                        Your Excellency’s Favor of the 30th last Month came safe to hand, and the Packet for the Marquis has been
                            dispatched by Express. The Letter for Mrs Washington was immediately delivered.
                        This Morning I received by Express a Letter from the Marquis, dated Malvern Hill the 26. last, informing that
                            two Battallions of light Infantry & the Queens Rangers were certainly, and the Guards
                            with one or two British Regiments and some Cavalry were probably embarked for New York under
                            Convoy of the Charon of 44 Guns, three Frigates and two 20 Gun Ships of War, and commanded by General Lesslie. The whole
                            Fleet consisting of 49 Sail had fallen down to Hampton Road. The Enemy gave out that their Embarkation was for Potowmack
                            & Chesapeake, and that Lord Cornwallis himself commanded.
                        By private Information from New York I learn, that Lord Cornwallis had at first declined sending Simcoe’s
                            Corps and the Light Infantry, to the Amount of 1500 in the whole, which had been sent for by Sir Henry Clinton; that this
                            had created considerable Bickerings between the two Generals, and that a peremptory Order had been issued to
                            Cornwallis—that New York was every where strongly fortified, and put in the best Posture of Defence, and that every
                            Inhabitant was on constant Duty—that Admiral Digby, with ten Sail of the Line, was expected daily, and that they were in
                            every Respect ready to resist any Attack you might make. If we can do no more this Campaign we shall oblige the Enemy to
                            act on the defensive, a Circumstance so totally different from the Expectations of Lord George Germain, that it will be
                            near to a Victory.
                        A Member of a Committee of Congress, one of the Board of War and the Superintendant of Finance purpose to
                            wait on your Excellency in a few Days at Head Quarters, in order to fix upon the Arrangement of the Army for the next Year
                            &c. This will at least discover to our Enemies, that we are determined to persevere in well doing, and to be
                            prepared for any Event, and the Measure having been adopted earlier than at any Period of the War heretofore has a
                            favorable Aspect.
                        The Riflemen required are recruiting but slowly, and yet no Effort of this State is wanting to accomplish the
                            Wishes on this Head. I have the Honor to be with the most perfect Esteem sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient humble Servt

                            Tho. M:Kean President


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 3 August 1781
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Camp Augt 3. 1781.

                        In the inclosed proposition for general orders, I have these objects in view: To ascertain the quantity of
                            forage consumed in this county, by knowing the numbers of cattle fed there—To find who are possessed of public horses—To
                            see who keep horses to whom public forage is not allowed, or who keep more horses than are allowed them, or than your
                            Excellency shall judge necessary; that what are superfluous may be removed.
                        There are so few inhabitants in this county, and so few of these cut any hay, I am apprehensive of the army’s
                            being too soon distressed for forage, vast quantities of which have already perished. If two hundred mowers and hay-makers
                            were immediately turned out, some magazines might be formed in the rear of the army: but if the forage masters cut only
                            enough for the daily wants of the army, in a fortnight I fear nothing worth cutting will remain. Every thing but the bog
                            grass will be dried up. There will be very little second growth, as the strength of the plant & the soil will be
                            exhausted in ripening the seed of the first crop that is perishing on the ground. I beg leave to submit these matters to
                            your Excellency’s determination; and am, with the greatest respect your most obedt servt

                            Tim: Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 3 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Dobbs Ferry 3d Augst 1781

                        I have been honored with your Excellency’s Favor of the 31st ulto—I most ardently wish that your Orders for
                            reinforcing & supplying the Army, may be carried into Execution with a Zeal & Ardor equal to that with
                            which, I am persuaded, they are given.
                        Money for the Pay of the Troops of your Line will be exceedingly welcome—the sooner it arrives the more
                            salutary will be its Consequences.
                        It will be very difficult for the Q.M.G. unfurnished as he is with Money, or the Means of Transportation, to
                            get in the Cloathing which you are so good as to mention—if the States could find Means to hand it on to us, it would
                            prove a very agreable Circumstance.
                        Your Excellency, I fancy, must be better able to judge of the Security of some Place for
                            yourself & Council to sitt at in the Western Part of your State than I am—I imagine however that you may be quite
                            secure at Danbury, unless you fear the Designs of your own internal disaffected people—from the enemy at N. York or on
                            Long Island, there can be, I think, but little or no Danger—against the disaffected in the Vicinity of Danbury a small
                            guard will give you Protection—On your coming this Way, I flatter myself you will be so good as to do me the Honor of a
                            Visit at Camp—be assured Sir! I shall esteem myself peculiarly happy in such an Event—& I will make it my Care to
                            render your Stay with me as agreable as Circumstances will permitt. I have the Honor to be with perfect Esteem &
                            Regard Dear Sir Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington


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

                            Head Quarters near Dobb’s Ferry Saturday Augt. 4. 1781.
                            Parole Picardy Countersigns Chantilly Rochelle
                        For the day tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Huntington
                        Lieutenant Colonel Johnston
                        For Picquet Major Maxwell
                        Inspector Captain Remick
                        The Waggon Master General is to make an immediate Return of all Horses and Oxen employed in his Department
                            including the riding horses.
                        The Quarter Masters of Brigades and seperate Corps are to make Returns of all Horses therein and of the names
                            (and ranks of officers) if the persons by whom they are kept excepting those belonging to the Waggon Department.
                        These Returns are to be made to the Quarter Master General on Monday next—In every case the Public and
                            Private Property are to be distinguished as well as the riding from the draught horses—By that day the Quarter Master
                            General will ascertain the Numbes of Horses kept by all General and Staff officers not attached to Brigades or seperate
                            Corps—Every Horse kept by any person belonging to or following the American Army not included in these returns which shall
                            after the time above mentioned befound within the Limits of the Camp or between the Camp and Croton river is to be
                            delivered to the Waggon Master General and employed for the public service.
                        No draught or waggon horse is to be rode on any pretence whatever unless when sent after Forage or to water;
                            any person found riding such horse on any other occasion will be tried by a court martial and punished for disobedience of
                            orders.
                        Untill further Orders General DuPortail’s Guard to be furnished from the Corps of Sappers and Miners.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Forrest, 4 August 1781
From: Forrest, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philadelphia August 4th 1781

                        I need not trouble Your Excellency with the many Reasons I have to Offer in favour of Leaving the Service, as
                            I presume You are well acquainted with them from my Late Letters previous to this I shall only Add that necessity compells
                            the measure at the Same time Assuring Your Excellency that when ever the necessity of my Country requires the calling
                            forth of its distressed inhabitans there’s no man will fly to the feild with more disinterested Chearfullness than Your
                            Excellency’s Most Obt Devoted servt

                            T. Forrest Lt Coll of Ay