Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 20 September 1778
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            King street two Miles above Claps [N.Y.] Septr 20th 1778

          On the 17th & 18th inst. went down the Sound from the Eastward upwards of one hundred Sail of vessels, part of them loaded with

            forage—Among them were several large ships. I have not been able to learn whether there were any troops on board. By the last Accounts from New York, five Brigades embark’d on the 16th and all the Pilots for the sound impress’d about the same time.
          I have two very good men now in New York watching their motions—One of them is expected out to morrow, but if any Movement should take place; He will be out sooner.
          The intelligence respecting the embarkation of the troops does not come so well as I could wish, but having it from three different hands, whose stories all agree, I am persuaded there may be some truth in it.
          I am sorry to be oblig’d to observe to your Excellency that the necessary clothing is not furnish’d to the men of my Corps from their Regiments—In consequence of it, I have had a return made for what clothing they want; An account of which may be given the Clothier, and he may charge them to the several Regiments with as much propriety, as though they had been drawn regimentally.
          I have sent repeatedly to the several Regiments for necessaries for their men who are with me, but there seems such an unwillingness in the Officers to serve them, that I have lost every hope of succeeding that way. The Men are suffering exceedingly for want of shoes and several other Articles—I should be extremely happy, if your Excellency would be pleas’d to order the Clothier to serve them in the manner above mention’d.
          The enemy have been very still since the Army left White Plains, untill this morning, When about One hundred horse & about three hundred foot came out on Wards Road—The Patroll mov’d back, as they advanc’d, untill they reach’d Ward’s house, When they turn’d to the left, cross’d the Brunks, and fell in with our Patroll on the Mile square road, all dismounted at an house, and immediately surrounded them—A Serjeant and six Dragoons were made prisoners—The Guide escap’d. The Enemy then return’d—I am sorry for the loss of the men, but am in hopes it will be a sufficient warning to others on Duty—I do not like my position here, but shall be oblig’d to stay several days to cover some stores at Wright’s Mills, untill they can be got away, When I shall <mutilated> two or three miles farther back to a ver<y> s<mutilated > post. The troops with me have h<ad> no bread for two days—The 300 barrels of flour left at Wright’s mills are all damag’d—The Commy has sent to Croton bridge, where I am told there is a Quantity stor’d, and hope they will get some to morrow—The troops with me suffer for want of their pay, owing to the inattention of the Regimental Pay masters, Pray, Sir, be pleas’d to order that they may come down and pay them off. I am your Excellency’s mo. obdt humble Servt

            Chs Scott


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 20 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

            Dr sir
            Fredericksburg Septr 20: 1778

          I this Morning received your favor of the 17 Instant with the Letters to which it refers. your last favor was misdated as you suppose—and will be altered agreable to your request. By a New York paper of the 17th, it appears that Admiral Biron arrived the preceding day, with the princess Royal of 90 Guns & the Colloden of 74—His whole fleet has now got in except the ship that put back to portsmouth. I am Dr sir with great regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt sert

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 20 September 1778
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

            My Dear General
            Providence Septemr 20th 1778

          I have this Day nothing worth taking up a moment of your Excellenceys attention unless you find it in the Inclosed Letters which I am Requested to forward I have the Honor to be my Dear General your Excys most obedt Servant

            Jno. Sullivan


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Jacob Bayley, 21 September 1778
From: Bayley, Jacob
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Newbury [Vt.] 21st Septr 1778

          I arrived at this Place the 18th Inst. and find that Provisions can be made nearly Equal to what I represented to your Excellency, altho’ I found some Gentlemen were Endeavouring to purchase for Private Use I have not as yet had any advice from Mr Cuyler Commissary for the Northern Department for which reason I send Capt. Young to him that the Purchase might not be delayed Inclosed Your Excellency receives the Journal of Capt. Benja. Sawyer and Capt. Traversie who were sent by Colo: Bedel into Canada since I set out on my Journey to white Plains, which I doubt not the Truth off, I also Inform that about the 6th of this month a Party of about 400 Tories and Indians under the Comand of Colo: Peters (who deserted from this Place) landed at or near Colchester Bay and proceeded about half way to this place from said Bay but by their Spies finding Colo: Bedles Scouts had discovered them, and that our People were prepared for them Retreated Back by Onion River, where they Burnt all the Houses & Embarked It seems the Enemy have it in view to destroy what is on this River but if Colo. Bedels Regt is Continued and a quantity of Powder and Lead is sent to them there will be but little Danger. I am your Excellency’s most Obedient Humble Servant

            Jacob Bayley


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 21 September 1778
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Danbury [Conn.] 21st Sepr 1778

          I have the Honor to acquaint Your Excellency that General Mac dougals Division arrived here Yesterday, and The whole Left Wing are now encamped upon a Height, to the East of this Town; about one Mile upon the road leading to Hartford; in my Judgement, exactly the position your Excellency recommended: I apprehend the Troops posted upon the Sound, and to the Southard of Danbury, are order’d to report all extraordinarys to me, in their way to your Excellency—I shall pay all possible regard to pasture and Forage; but wish, The principal Officers, in each of the public departments, were to take a View of the State of their Affairs here—I am Sir Your Excellencys most Obedient Humble Servant

            Horatio Gates


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 21 September 1778
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Head Quarters Boston 21 Septr 1778

          On fryday last a Vessel arrived at Piscataqua in forty Days from Nantz, in France, Dispatches were yesterday brought up to the Count de Estaing, the Master of the Vessel reports that on the 27th July last a Navel Engagement happened off Ushant between the Squadron of his most Christian Majesty Commanded by Monsieure de Chaffault and the British Fleet Commanded by Admiral Keppel which lasted three hours—67 Vessels were engaged, viz. 33 French & 34 English, Frigates included on both Sides, in which the Fleet of his most Christian Majesty got the advantage, the English Fleet gave way, and were pursued by the French to the Channel of England. On this important event permit me to congratulate your Excellency. I have just returned from on board the Fleet; the Count informs me that no mention is made of the engagement in his Letters, which are dated some days before the Engagement happened, but the truth of it may be depended on. The Count informs me also, that War was declared in France against England in the Month of June, but not with the usual formalities, The King of England in his Speech to the Two Houses of Parliament on the Subject of the Court of France acknowledging the Independency of the United States, having intimated that he should take proper notice of the Conduct of that Court, or expressions nearly similar; the french Court conceived this, if not fully a declaration of War, at least a declaration of the intention of the British King. They have therefore sent to their several Governors and Commanders to act against the English as if at open War, under formal declaration; the Count has accordingly received orders to act conformably.
          The Batteries at the entrance of our harbour are putting in the best condition for defence. The General Assembly have ordered in a large Body of Militia to repair, complete and Garrison all the Works around the harbour until the intentions of the Enemy are known. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Major General Lafayette, 21 September 1778
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

            My dear general
            Warren [R.I.] 21st September 1778

          I am to aknowledge the reception of your late favor—your excellency’s Sentiments were already known to me, and my heart had Anticipated your answer—I however Confess it gave me a new pleasure when I Receiv’d it—my love for you is such, my dear general, that I did enjoy it better (if possible) in a private Sentimental light than in a political one—Nothing makes me happier than to See a conformity of Sentiments betwen you and me upon any matter whatsoever, and the opinion of your heart is so precious to me, that I will ever expect it to fix mine—I do’nt know how to make out a fine expression of my Sentiments, my most respected friend, but you know I hope my heart, and I beg you would Read in it—agreable to your advices and my own feelings—I made all what I could for preventing any bad prejudice being taken on either side—that conduct I also closely kept in the late affair of boston Concerning Mister de St Sauveur —I wish to have been of some use in both occasions, and I hope we have pretty well succeed’d—the Count d’estaing is entirely ours—-So at least I aprehend by his confidential letters to me, and it affords me a great pleasure—I have found by him an occasion of writing to france, and you’ll better conceive than I may describe what part I have acted in the occasion—I thaught the best way of speaking of these internal affairs, was not to speack of them at all, or at least very indifferently, So as to give any such Report which might arrive as groundless and insignificant—I dare say my scheme will have the desired effect, and nothing will be thaught of in france—I thaught I would do well to let the admiral know that you din’t lay any blame upon him, And entertain’d the Sentiments any honest french man might wish upon this matter.
          I am now going, my dear general, to give you a piece of News—by two expresses Sent from boston in a great hurry I learn that a vessel is arriv’d from Nantz in portsmouth, who had left europe the tenth of august and brings the following report.
          That after admiral keppell had got those seven schips of the Line he So much wanted, he went out again, and the french fleet was orderd to meet him any where—the french had thirty one schips, and the

            english thirty-three—they met together the 26th july—keppell gain’d the wind ward and the battle begun—it was a very severe one—at lenght the British having lost admiral keppell who was kill’d, being very much Schatterd, and having besides the kill’d many wounded among whom was the Second in Command, gave way as fast as they Could, and were warmly pursued in theyr flight by the french Squadron—however the windy and foggy weather which came up prevented our taking more than one small man of war—but Great many of the large ones were extremely damag’d—the english Conceal’d themselves in theyr own harbours, and the french after having been three days at brest went out again, and were at sea when the bearer left Nantz—the commanding officer of the first french division Mister duchaffaut had his nephew kill’d, and Receiv’d in the same time a severe wound, while his Son had the Right arm taken off—the third division under the duke de chartres a prince of the blood was the most engag’d and Contributed good deal to that very important victory.
          there was, when the man Sat out, a spanish fleet Ready to operate as bigg as the french one who had defeated Admiral keppell—flatt bottom’d boats were preparing and troops encamping near the Coasts—Such are the intelligences I could get—they were Sent first by Mjor Brice who is in boston, and secondly by a french gentleman who incloses a note from Mister de borda major of the fleet directed to him—I expect at every moment a letter from the Count d’estaing—however he Can’t but Repeat the Report of that french merchant man, as the dispatches from the Minister are directed to one mister holker Consul, in which these of the admiral must be inclos’d. I thaught your excellency would be glad to get the above mentionn’d account as soon as possible—I am asham’d and indeed I am sorry for the famous navy of england, to see that the[y] Run a way in every quarter of the world before the french flagg.
          agreable to a very useful article of a letter to general sullivan, I have Remov’d my most particular post of Bristol, and am in a safer place behind warren. the few spies I have been able to get upon the island Seem Rather think of an evacuation than of any enterprise—but you know new york is the fountain head.
          I long much, my dear general, to be again with you—our Separation has been long enough, and I am here as inactive as any where else—my wish and that you will easely Conceive had been to Cooperate with the french fleet—I do’nt know now what they will do—the admiral has wrote me upon many ideas, and don’t Seem very fix’d yet on any scheme—he wants to do—he burns with the desire of Striking a blow, and is not fix’d yet how to accomplish it—he wrote me that he wanted to See me, but I Ca’nt leave my post lest Some thing Could

            happen—it has already Coasted dear enough to me—however if you give me leave, I’ll ask this of general sullivan and will do what I think will be the best for both Countries.
          I have heard of a pistolade betwen two gentlemen which lasted very long without a great effect—it looks like our too much spoken of Cannonade at Newport while the Siege was continued—I have not yet been able to find out what your excellency desires me to inquire into on account of the french queen—but the people of the navy are too Remoted from versaïlles to have any knowledge of it and the count d’estaing himself has not any intimacy with her—I’ll get that intelligence from a better way, and alwaïs agreable to your feelings on the matter that you might do what you think fit to be done if the Report is trüe.
          I beg, my dear general, when you write to your lady that you would present my Respects to her, and I beg also the liberty to make here thousand Compliments to your family—with the highest Respect, and most tender friendship I have the honor to be, dear general Your Excellency’s The Most obedient Servant

            the Marquis de lafayette


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 21 September 1778
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Princeton [N.J.] 21 Sepr 1778

          About a week ago arrived in Brunswick from New york one Crowel formerly a New Jersey man with a Flagg for his Boat from Admiral Gambier, for the sole purpose of his carrying to Brunswick Lewis Costigen & his family; and another pass from General Jones in the like words except the omission of the word, sole. Crowel, after landing his Passengers obtained leave from Justice Neilson to go about to visit his old acquaintances upon plighting his word and honour not to carry off any provisions to New york. He accordingly left Brunswick without taking in any lading there; but one of our militia officers having received information that he had bargained for some flour along shore; and supposing that he would receive it on board soon after he left the City, detached four men, who lay in the reeds to watch his motions. After passing a point of Land near Brunswick he was boarded by a craft with provisions. As the craft returned from his Vessel the militia men hailed her, & she still making off, fired at her, without effect. They then hailed Crowel, and bid him send his barge to fetch them to examine his Vessel. Refusing this, they threatend to fire if he persisted in his attempt to make off. He did persist, and they fired, but did no execution. Finding at last that they hailed another craft to convey them on board, he thought proper to send his own to fetch them. They found on board nine barrels of flour, three firkins of butter and some other Articles. It appears from some of his papers which he threw over board tied to a stone, and which the ebbing of the tide left dry, that he had brought a quantity of Sugar to barter for those articles. The Captors brought his Vessel back to Brunswick, and claim both her and her cargo by the embargo Law of this State enacted in pursuance of a Recommendation of Congress.
          By advice of Council I ordered Crowel to this place and the above

            facts appearing on examination well supported, the Council advised me to detain him, until I could procure your Excellencys opinion on the Subject. He will therefore be detained at Brunswick accordingly.
          What he has done, would by our Law have incurred a forfeiture of both vessel & cargo had the like been done by any of our own Subjects.
          How far his Flagg is a protection of his Vessel so as to exempt her from that confiscation which another Vessel the property of a citizen, would be liable to, in similar circumstances, is not so clear as I could wish it.
          Admitting the Flag to protect the vessel, does it also protect the Lading?
          The Captors will not easily be reconciled to the restitution of both. Nor ought their ardor for preventing this kind of traffic (admitting that it proceeds from self-interest) to be suppressed without sufficient reason. The Enemy know that there is a Post at Elizabeth Town, and that there is none at Brunswick. For this very reason, I presume they send their Flags to the latter, where we having no body to guard them, they can execute their designs without controul. By this means, after having in great measure prevented the practice of our people’s carrying provisions to them, we shall have the mortification of seeing them fetching it from us. on the other hand, wh<at> are the usual & acknowledged prerogatives of Letters of safe conduct, we would wish to preserve inviolate; and carefully avoid going into any measure that should afford the enemy any just cause for insulting our flags of truce.
          As your Excellency has doubtless had occasion to turn your thoughts to the Law of Nations on this Subject, I should be glad to be favoured with your opinion, being as desirous of forbearing any step not supported by precedent or derogatory to the honour of America, as I am of punishing the pervertion of public credentials to the purpose of private smuggling, as well as all other dishonourable artifices to violate the municipal Law—I have the honour to be with the highest Esteem your Excellencys most obedient Servt

            Wil: Livingston


Title: Circular to Six States, 22 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Sir Head
            Qrs Fredericksburg Septr 22d 1778

          I do myself the honor of transmitting you, Copies of two Letters from Colo. Biddle and Charles Pettit Esquire, upon the subject of forage. The representations of these Gentlemen are so full and so well founded, respecting the difficulties that attend the getting this important article, from the reluctance of the Holders to part with it—and the enormous & exorbitant prices they demand for it, that I shall not trouble you with many observations upon the occasion. However, I think it necessary to add, that unless some effectual means can be devised, by which the Army may be supplied with forage, with more certainty—and on terms much more moderate, than it is at present, it will be impossible for it to exist long. What the means will be, I shall not attempt to point out, for I confess the subject appears to me to be involved in great intricacy; and I am the less inclined to enter upon it, from a perfect conviction that you and the branches of your Legislature will be forward to adopt every expedient, that shall seem calculated, to afford the smallest relief in this interesting and essential point. I have the Honor to be with great respect & esteem Sir Your Most Obedt servt

            Go: Washington

          p.s. The rates of Waggonage and Cartage also call for the interposition of the Legislature. They are now exorbitant in the extreme.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel George Baylor, 22 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Baylor, George

            Dear Sir.
            Head Quarters [Fredericksburg] 22d Septr 1778

          Your letter of the 20th Inst. I had the pleasure of receiving yesterday.
          I would wish you to ascertain with as much precision as possible the number of troops that imbark, and the time of their departure from New york, with what other circumstances can be gained respecting them. For this purpose you will use every means in your power, and transmit the result of the enquiry to me with all expedition. I am Sir your most obt Servt

            Go: Washington

          p.s. you will keep a careful and constant look out on the north river, and should you observe any number of transports in motion this way, you will give the earliest notice possible to the commander at west point.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel George Baylor, 22 September 1778
From: Baylor, George
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Hackingsack [N.J.] Septr 22nd 1778

          Capt. Smith whome I have pitchd on to go to Boston has been so much indispos’d that he was not able to set out sooner than this morning. I must beg leave to refer you to him for the relation of an affray that has happend here between the civil authority and Major Clough; my motives for troubling you with this dispute is, that complaints have been made to the Governer who will probebly make them known to you.
          We are about to move to Paramus which is the most convenient place, to this post; where the Regiment can be quarterd togiether, which is necessary both for our safety and the keeping of good order; the distance is about eight miles from this. By some persons from New york

            we are informd that the Enemy have left Rhode Island, if it is so, I make no doubt but what you have it confirm’d before this. I am Sir with the Greatest respect your most Obedient Humbe Servant.

            George Baylor


Title: From George Washington to Vice Admiral d’Estaing, 22 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Estaing, Charles-Hector Théodat, comte d’

            Sir,
            Head Quarters Fredericksburgh Sepr 22d 1778

          Mr De Chouin has announced to me your desire, that he may pay you a visit to explain more fully than can be done by letter, the state of affairs both with respect to the enemy and to us—their movements and probable designs and our dispositions in consequence—The intelligence, I have received of the former has been imparted to him as it arrived—the latter he has, in a great measure, had an opportunity of seeing himself, and I have given him every explanation, which might be necessary to perfect his idea of our situation and views. This he will communicate with his usual perspicuity, and I dare say, in a manner, that will be intirely satisfactory.
          The amiableness of the Major’s character has secured him my esteem, as fully as, I am persuaded his zeal and attention in executing his commission must have gained him your approbation. One circumstance only could diminish the pleasure his company afforded me; this is the sacrifice he has been obliged to make, in accommodating himself to a manner of life, which the operations of the field and the nature of the country, that is the present scene of them, would not permit to be the most agreeable. The chearfulness with which he has submitted to every inconvenience is an additional proof of his zeal. With the most perfect consideration and respect, I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedt servant

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 22 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

            Sir,
            Head Quarters [Fredericksburg] Sepr 22d 1778

          By some late accounts from the Eastward, it appears, that none of the provisions, destined for the use of the French fleet had arrived; nor had they any knowlege of its being near—I shall be glad to know what steps have been taken in consequence of my former directions, and what progress has been made in the business of forwarding supplies for the fleet—This is an object of so great importance, that I cannot forbear repeating my desire, that every possible expedient may be embraced to promote it. I am Sir Your most Obedt Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Charles Scott, 22 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Charles

            [22 September 1778]

          I received your letter of yesterdays date this morning.
          The security of your command makes it in my opinion perfectly expedient to take post five miles above Claps tavern—you should if possible be out of surprizing distance, while your scouts may be made use of to watch the movements of the enemy—I would have you to keep a constant look out on the Sound from the commanding hights near Claps and when you observe any extraordinary body of transports you will immediately send a report to Genl Gates at Danbury. & Should similar appearances take place in the north River, you will make the communication to General Putnam, who is encamped opposite west point. You will continue your intelligence to myself as usual.
          The flour at wrights mills may be converted into biscuit altho it is unfit for bread. I think it may be all wrought up in this way.
          If the deserters are taken you will make particular inquiry into the encouragement which you suppose they had from an officer This matter should be well attended to—As you do not mention the corps to which they belonged it is out of my power to make any sort of inquisition on the subject, or to know whether any of them have returned to their regiments some being at Danbury & others under Lord Stirling—Genl Lincoln &ca—spare no pains—nor expence, to obtain and transmit the earliest intelligence of the Enemys movements & designs—get an intelligent person if you can to remain constantly in the City & others to communicate with him for the purpose of conveying his observations &ca.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 22 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Fredericksburg 22d Sepr 1778

          I have recd your favs. of the 18th and 19th: I have recd no accounts from the enemy since I wrote to you last, except that the troops under Genl Gray landed at White Stone upon Long Island—Another considerable embarkation is much talked of in N. york, but whether it is really to take place, or what is the destination I cannot learn with precision. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 22 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

            Dear Sir
            Head Qrs Fredericksburg 22d Septr 1778

          Your letter of the 20th Inst. came to hand last night.
          The different divisions of the army have mostly fixed on their relative positions, where we shall wait the unfoldings of the enemys measures. When you receive intelligence which may throw light on this subject, or information of their motions in your quarter, or of importance enough for a special communication I shall be glad of its speedy transmission—but when there is nothing of this kind you may relax a little or write every third day in order to give the expresses some respite. However you will be in these cases the judge of the expediency of employing them. I am Dear Sir your most obt Servt.


Title: General Orders, 23 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head Quarter’s Frederick’sburgh Wednesday Septr 23rd [1778]
            ParoleC. Signs

           The honorable the Congress have passed the following Resolution of the 11th instant.
          That all Officers of the Army not authorized by the resolutions of Congress or by the special Permission of the Commander in Chief to keep horses—be prohibited, tho’ at their own Expence from keeping any horse or horses within forty miles of the Main Body of the Army, and that General Washington be desired to appoint proper Officers to see this order carried into Execution and to bring to trial all Offenders against it.
          The Commander in Chief expects the most pointed Compliance with this resolve, the propriety and even Necessity of which are striking—He will in an especial manner look to the Officers commanding Brigades to see it punctually executed and to suffer no deviation on any Pretence whatever—A week from this date is allowed to send away the super-numerary horses after which the Commissary of Forage is enjoined to report to Head-Quarters every horse that falls within his notice that may be retained contrary to the Intention of this Prohibition.
          The Regimental Pay-Masters who have not yet paid the detachments of Light-Infantry with Genl Scott are to repair immediately to the Flying-Camp near King’s-Street and pay off the men from their respective Regiments.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel George Baylor, 23 September 1778
From: Baylor, George
To: Washington, George

            Dr Sir
            Hackingsack [N.J.] Septr 23thd 1778

          I yesterday receiv’d intiligence from a party of militia which were sent down to Burgen, that lait in the afternoon a number of Transports came as near to Powles hook as they could and landed a considerable boddy of men. other parties have returnd and confirm this account. they (the Enemy) encamped last night in Burgen wood about five miles on this side of the Town—on the road to the liberty pole. from the spais of ground which they took up on their march & on their encampment; I suppose their number to be about five thousand.
          A Regiment of Militia which were here last evening to assist the sherrif in taking two of my men Prisoners deserted us, as soon as this news was heard, the Colo. himself could not be prevaild on to stay.
          The Bearer has a letter for you which was sent out late last evening by the liberty pole; by the same conveyance I receivd one for the President of congress and others [for] the members. I am Sir with the greates Respect your obt Humble Servant

            George Baylor


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 23 September 1778
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Danbury [Conn.] 23d Sept: 1778

          Inclosed is a Letter I received Yesterday by the Bearer Doctor Johnston, from General Stark —From intelligence from different places, corresponding with each Other, there is the Strongest reason to believe, that The Enemy meditate an Attack, both by Sea, & Land, upon Boston, and The French Fleet; indeed, they can now, have no Other Objects; in my Letter to Congress of the 3d June last, I earnestly press’d the Formation of a Magazine of Flour in The Eastern States; I hope every measure is taking for that purpose: if there is Bread enough, I have no doubt but the Enemy’s Designs will be Frustrated; a rumour prevails, that Fiffty Sail of The Enemy’s Ships appeared Off New London last Monday and Summon’d The Town; Your Excellency must by this Time know, if there is any Truth in this report—I have sent a proper party, with Artificers, to build The Bridge Your Excellency commanded to be Erected—Lt Col. Carleton very willingly undertook to superintend the Work.
          Inclosed are the Returns of The Five Brigades in this Camp. I am Sir Your Excellencys most Obedient Humble Servant

            Horatio Gates


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 23 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Hay, Udny

            Sir
            Head Quarters Fredericksburg 23d Sepr 1778

          Inclosed you have a Warrant for the impress of Teams agreeable to an Act of this State. Be pleased to be as moderate in the use of it as possible, and follow the directions of Govr Clinton in his letter to you of the 23d June, as far as you can consistent with the expedition and good of the Service. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 23 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Fredericksburg 23d Sepr 1778

          I am glad to find by yours of the 19th that such progress had been made in forwarding the Cloathing from Boston to Springfeild &ca. I think you did right under the appearance of matters, to send the unmade Cloathing out of town, and I would recommend it to you to keep the Bulk still there, bringing it in as the Taylers want it.
          By a letter from Genl Greene of the 19th I am informed that the General Court had ordered in three thousand Militia for the defence of Boston, untill the Continental troops should arrive. I suppose this measure was taken upon a presumption that General Gray would make an attempt upon the Fleet and Harbour. But, as I have before informed you, he has returned. If therefore the Militia should have been assembled, and are not disbanded before this reaches you, I would advise its being immediately done. They will consume Stores unnecessarily, and will not be so ready to turn out again should there be occasion.
          I will inform you in my next of the terms upon which Congress directed Officers should be supplied. The Resolve passed in November last, and I have not the papers at hand just now. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

            Go: Washington

          p.s. I have recd advice from New York that two Brigades were ordered to be held in readiness to embark for the West Indies, and that four of the Regiments had actually gone on board. This is brought out by deserters.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 23 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

            sir
            Head Quarters near Fredericksburg Septr 23: 1778

          Since I had the honor of addressing you on the 12th Instant, I have received your several Favors of the 10th—12th & 16th with the Resolutions, to which they allude.
          I transmitted the British Commissioners the Resolve of the 4th Instant, respecting the Convention Troops, the morning after it came to hand; and also wrote to Sr Henry Clinton upon the subject of passports. I have not received his Answer.
          With respect to the Magazines, I have directed the Commissary to form them on the Inland communication from hence to Boston, at proper Intervals. The 20,000 Barrels of flour that Congress have ordered to be purchased, will be a valuable addition, if they can be transported by Water; but it seems to me there will be great risque of it’s being lost, if it is sent by Sea, while the Enemy have a superior fleet on our Coast.
          As the Campaign is not closed yet, all our Cavalry are of use. They lie in the Neighbourhood of the Enemy’s posts for the purpose of restraining their parties, and for obtaining and giving intelligence of their movements; and they are subsisted upon the forage, which would otherwise be exposed to them. I am sensible that these Corps are attended with great expence, and the moment I think the service will admit of it, they or a part of them shall be quartered in different places distant from the Army, where they may be provided for on better terms. The price of forage and the difficulty of getting it, are really Objects of great magnitude—and such as should undergo some regulation, if there is any that can be adopted. I received Letters a few days ago from the Commissary and Quarter Master upon this subject, Copies of which and of my Letter in consequence to the several States from Massachusets bay to Pensilvania inclusive, I take the liberty to inclose.
          The Resolution prohibiting Officers, except such as are specially authorised, to keep Horses in the Army or within Forty miles of it, has been published in orders; and I will take every step in my power to give it effect.
          I have considered the practicability of reducing the Teams employed in the Army and find, however desireable the Object may be, that it cannot be done. We have not at this time, more than are absolutely and indispensibly necessary—nor so many as would be requisite in

            case of a rapid movement. Neither does it appear to me, that there can be a substitution of Ox for Horse teams, at least, to any great extent, nor that any material advantages would arise from such a measure. There might perhaps be a small saving in the article of provender, but this I fear would be greatly overbalanced in the loss of Cattle, that would otherwise be appropriated to the use of the Commissary’s department. After a full investigation of the subject, I believe we shall be obliged to adhere to the kind of teams we now employ, and that the only relief we shall have in point of expence, will arise from sending a part of the Horses to places where they may be more easily foraged, when we have fixed our Camp and Quarters for the Winter.
          I beg leave to mention to Congress, that there is a necessity for some mode’s being established, by which claims on the Old Quartermastership, that remain unsatisfied, may be discharged. There are many of this nature and these, however well authenticated they may be, the Gentlemen now in Office do not conceive themselves at liberty to adjust, without obtaining some special direction for the purpose. I am every day applied to for payment of such accounts, and in many instances have been obliged, as well for the sake of justice to Individuals as for the public good, to order them to be taken up. It appears to me, that Congress cannot be too early in their Resolution upon this occasion, and that either the present department should be authorised to settle and pay such claims, or that some persons should be appointed and supplied with money for the purpose.
          The Army marched from White plains on the 16th Inst. and is now encamped in different places. Three Brigades, composing the Virginia Troops, part of the right wing, under the command of Genl Putnam, are at Robinson’s near West point—and two Brigades more, composing the remainder, are with Baron du Kalb at Fish Kill plains, about 10 miles from the Town on the road leading to Sharon—The second line with Lord Stirling is in the vicinity of Fredericksburg; and the whole of the left wing at Danbury, under the command of General Gates. These several posts appear to be the best we can occupy in the present doubtful state of things, as they have relation to the support of West point, in case of an attack in that Quarter, and are also on the communication to the Eastward, if the Enemy point their operations that way. Besides these dispositions, Genl Scot with a Light corps remains below, in the Country about King’s street.
          The Letter from Sr Henry Clinton which I have the honor of transmitting, was sent to me to day by Colo. Baylor, who is posted at Hackinsack. He says he received One for me by the same flag and from his note, he supposed he had charged the Horseman with it, who just arrived at Head Quarters. Through accident he forwarded yours to

            me, and I think it probable that you will be troubled with mine. If this should be the case, you will be so obliging as to return it to me, by the first conveyance. I was also informed by Colo. Baylor, that a considerable body of the Enemy landed at Powles Hook, in the Evening of the 22d and encamped that night in the Wood, between four and five miles from the Town of Bergen. He had not learnt their object, but it is likely they are after forage. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem sir Your Most Obedt servant

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Charles Pettit, 23 September 1778
From: Pettit, Charles
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Mr Wilcocks’s—1 Mile South of Fredericksburg 23 Septr 1778

          Mr Torrey who was appointed by Genl Heath Captain of a Company of Bakers, and sent from Boston to the Army in June last, informs me that he finds it not in his Power to render that Service to the Publick, while he continues with the Army, which was the Object of his Appointment. The Camp is an improper Place for the Baking of hard Bread. He expected, on coming to it, to employ his People in baking Loaf Bread for the Army; but he informs me that since the Army encamped at White Plains he has had no Call for soft Bread except for the Staff, every Brigade having found Means to bake for themselves; And as there is a Profit resulting, either to some particular Officers or to the Men at large, from their drawing Flour instead of soft Bread, they have all chosen the former. The Design in appointing a Baker to attend the Army was to save this Profit to the Publick; and in Quarters or in Garrison I am told it would afford a considerable Saving besides the Pay of the Bakers; but during a Campaign while the Camp is frequently shifting, I am told little or nothing would be saved were the Men all to draw soft Bread; as nearly the same Expence attends the Preparations at every new Encampment as would be necessary for a Twelve month’s Continuance of the Business. Capt. Torrey appears to be a judicious, wel-disposed Man, and expresses Concern at being kept in publick Pay to so little Purpose. If he could be stationed at some proper Place and employed in baking Biscuit he might be more useful. He informs me there is no Baker at Boston on established Pay, and as a considerable Quantity of Bread, both hard & soft, must be

            wanted there, perhaps he may be most usefully employed in or near that Place.
          As this Company of Bakers was raised under a special Resolution of Congress, by order of the Board of War, & by that Board put under the immediate Direction of Genl Heath, I had considered it as totally independant of the Q.M. Genl and therefore never intermeddled in the Direction of it till I was lately informed by Col. Hay it was your Excellency’s Pleasure I should give some Directions to Capt. Torrey. On conversing with him I have thought it necessary to submit the foregoing Facts and Observations to your Excellency and to request your Direction whether Capt. Torrey and his Compy shall be continued with the Army or sent to any, and what other Place. I feel myself the more inadequate to the Determining upon the Matter without giving your Excellency this Trouble; as the Produce of their Labour falls into a Department over which I have no Control. I have the Honour to be, with the most perfect Respect, Your Excellency’s most obedt humble Servt

            Cha. Pettit A.Q.M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Major Thomas Posey, 23 September 1778
From: Posey, Thomas
To: Washington, George

            May it Please Your Excellency.
            schohary [N.Y.] Middle Fort23d Septr 1778

          I make use of the Freedom to Trouble you with a Few lines with respect to a Command, which I was Orderd out upon by Colo. Butler—

            sir, youl Be informd by these lines, That Early in the morng of the 24th August, I recd Orders from Colo. Butler to Take a Command of 60 men, with Proper officers & Proceed with All Possible Expedition to Paughatoughton & Perpacton, to Try to fall in with som of the Enemies Parties which was Known to Freequent them Settlements in Order to Drive off the Stock & make such Discoveries as they thought Necessary. My Orders Likewise directed me to Drive off all the Stock & Horses in those Settlements. Accordingly as I have Observd, Early in the morning of the 24th I left Schohory & on the 26th Got to Paughatoughton as I had been well informd those Settlements were Cheifly, or all together Inhabited by Tories, I made use of the Procautions Necessarie in marching through an Enemies Country, not Long after I had Enterd the Settlement of Paughataughton, some of my scouting Parties met me, by which I was Informd som of the Houses were Evacuated. I Continued to Keep out my scouting Parties, & Proceded with all Possible Expedition through the Settlement. After som short time I Came to a House where I found som woman, I askt those woman what had become of the Inhabitents. they informd me a scout had been from Esopus, which had taken the Inhabitents & stock into the Settlement. I Could not tel what Dependance to put in what the woman said, Especially as I well Knew that a number of Tories from the Frontier Settlements were daily Flocking to Brandt & Butler; However I did not Take up much time But Proceeded, & within the distance of Half a mile in a pece of woods, I met two men, one Driveing a waggon the Other rideing one Horse & leading a nother, upon Examanation the one Driveing the waggon was Dumond, I askt the said Dumond where he was Going, he said to Esopus. That a scout had been in the Settlement, & drove of[f] all the Stock & Taken the Inhabitents Prisoners, I askt him If any scouting Parties had Been from Unidella lately, or If he Knew whether Brandt, & Butler, Commonly sent in scouting Parties in to this settlement, he said there had, I askt him If he assisted them, he Told me he had assisted them in Provition, & let them have Beef Cattle, & that he assisted his King in what he Could, The Other man was Exam-and by Capt. Long of the Rifle Chore who was found to have assisted the Enemie likewise, After haveing this Confession mad[e] to me, I not Knowing what might be the Consequence If I let them Go, upon Consideration I Orderd Capt. Harper of the Militia, which Composd part of my Command, to set three of his men as a Guard Over Dumond & the Other man Namd Borrow, The Ordor of the Guard was to take particular Care the prisoners did not Get away after which I Proceeded Down the Delawere, Thinking the report I had Recd of the men under Guard Concerning the scout from Esopus might only be a pece of Diception, That it was likely it might be a party of the Enemie which had been in the settlement in Order to Get the stock for there use, After I  had proceeded about 6 miles Down the Dellaware, I was informd the Guard had Come up without the Prisoners, I Orderd the Guard to be Brought to me, I Inquierd of them where the Prisoners were, They told me in Bringing them on, the two Prisoners attempted makeing there Escape, upon which one of the Guard Fired & mis’d, after which one of them mad[e] there Escape through woods, the Other Kep the Rhoad, which after Persuing near a mile one of the Guard Fired upon & Shot him, who turnd out to be Dumond, after my Excurtion Down the Dellaware, & upon my return, I C<ame to> the House where I Converst with the woman, at which House I found <Du>mond Lying wounded, I askt him his reason for runing from the Guard, he Said he thought we were a Party Belonging to Brandt or Butler, I Told him he had very Little reasons to think so after the Questions I had askt him Concerning Brandt & Butlers Parties, I askt him If he did not remember he had Said he assisted his King, he Said yes, he rememberd it well, & that he realy had assisted his King in what Lay in his Power.
          This Letter I make Free to Trouble you with as Knowing that some of the People about Esopus & Other Places, who are Friends to this Dumond have been indeavering to Paint this matter in a very Black Light to the Govenor, & sundree Other People, my Affidavit, with the rest of the Officers Affidavits which was with me on this Command, Colo. Butler Informs me, he will send inclosd to you for your Perusial. I am with Esteem sir Your Obediend Humle Servt

            Thomas Posey


Title: To George Washington from Captain Josiah Stoddard, 23 September 1778
From: Stoddard, Josiah
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Round Hill [Conn.] Septr 23d 1778

          I take the liberty to inform Your Excelly that some time in the latter end of June last, at which time I was posted at the white Plains, I receiv’d intelligence that one Isaac Underhill An Inhabitant near fort Independance was gone to New York by Water & wou’d probably return the next day & that he wou’d bring a quantity of piece & Grocery to supply a Shop which he has kept open Since the fall of 76.

            Whereupon I dispatchd a Corpo[ra]l & ten to Sieze the Delinquent & Cargo as soon as it Shou’d Arrive.
          The party made the house in season to take Underhill & part of the Goods, tho the most valuable Articles consisting of about 100 wt of Loaf Sugar Some Wine &c. had been Secreted—The Remainder being a quantity of Tea two pieces of Linen two pieces Callico 1 Ps. Callimanco & a few Articles of less Value I have secured agreeable to Col. Sheldons Order & sent the prisoner to Poughkeepsie Goal—I am therefore to request that Your Excellency will please to favour me with further Orders respecting the disposal of those Goods—If the Captors who hazarded their Lives within About half a mile of the Enemys Work are not to Share the plunder as a Reward of their Activity & Bravery, I shou’d be happy to know it as I can determin the Expectations of the Men & be relieved from the Charge of Valuable property which from its bulk is out of my power absolutely to secure—I wait Your Excelly Orders & with Respect Your Excely most Obedt hume Sevt

            Jos. Stoddard Capt. 2d Regt Dragoons


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 23 September 1778
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

            My Dear General
            Providence Septemr 23d 1778

          Last night 12 of Clock I was honored with your Excys favor of the 19th Instant. I am well Convinced that Lord Howe & General Grays Fleets must have Returned to New york as we have heard nothing from them Since they past Point Judith Steering westward. I Inclose your Excy two Newport papers one of which Shows that I was Right in my Conjecture as to Lord Howe & General Grays Fleets having formed a Junction prior to their passing point Judith I Suppose they Seperated again at the East End of Long Island & one went to the Southward of the Island the other through the Sound. I beg Leave to present your Excellencey with a plan of Rhode Island with the Enemies Lines & our Batteries also a Representation of the Action of the 29th of August which though not Elegantly is pretty Accurately done: by perusing which your Excellencey will have a more Distinct & perfect Idea of the whole proceedure than my Letters could possibly give it was Drawn by a Gentleman who was with me in the Expedition. I have nothing new in this Department. I

            have the honor to be my Dear General most Respectfully your Excellenceys very Humble Servant

            Jno. Sullivan

          p.s. The five hundred Arms Drawn from the Store at Springfield During the Expedition on Rhode Island are Returned to that place no arms have been Carried off by the militia.

            J:S:


Title: To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 23 September 1778
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

            May it please Your Excellency
            Roundhill [Conn.] Septr 23d 1778

          The Scarcity of forage in this Departmt has induced Colo. Sheldon to order an assortment of the Horses belonging to this Regt that those which in all probability will never be fit for the Dragoon-Service again, may be put to some other Service in the Army, & the Publick be eased of the Burden & Expence of supplying a number of Horses, which in their present Destination, render the Publick no Service at all. To this necessary Duty we attended yesterday, & after dismissing only those which fall within the above Description, & detaining many, which thro’ extreme hard Duty & want of forage are so reduced as not to be fit for present Service, I find that from 204. non commissd Officers & Privates 50 are dismounted. Under this last Denomination I do not include those Dragoons whose Horses are so reduced as not to be in a much better Condition than if the Riders were already dismounted, but it relates only to those who have no Horses at all. Nor has this Deficiency happened of late, inasmuch as many Dragoons have not been furnished with Horses thro’ the Campaign.
          What I have to ask from the above stating of the Case is that Your Excellency’s Directions may be known, whether Horse<s> may be purchased for remounting those Dragoons, or whether we may shortly expect any supply (as we have long been expecting) from any other Quarter. At present it is very evident that a considerable part of the Regt, equipp’d & accoutred in every other respect, are merely thro’ the want of horses, unable to perform those Services for which they were raised.

          I would further note that since the general Return for Blankets has been called for, none have been issued to our Regt. Many of the Dragoons without Blankets or Cloaks, are obliged to be on Duty, which at this rainy season, exposes both the men & their Sadlery furniture not a little. I am with all due Respect, Your Excellency’s most obedt & very hume Servt

            Benjn TallmadgeMajor Commdt 2d Regt

          p.s. From good Authority I am informed that Transports are preparing at N. York for the reception of the Cavalry—I also learn by a Deserter who came in to one of our Posts, that 4 Regimts are ordered to imbark for the West Indies.

            B.T.


Title: From George Washington to John Augustine Washington, 23 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, John Augustine

            Dear Brother,
            Fredericksburg in the State of New-YorkSepr 23d 1778.

          Your Letter of the 30th Ulto came to my hands a few days ago, and gave me the pleasure of hearing that you were all well, and an oppertunity of congratulating you on the birth of a grandchild, tho you do not say whether it be Male or female.
          The proceedings of the General Court Martial in the case of General Lee, has lain with Congress since the 20th of last Month for their approbation, or disapprobation; and why it is yet undecided upon I know no more than you; and therefore shall not hazard a conjecture; as it has been my aim from the beginning to avoid saying any thing upon the Subject till it came properly before the public.
          To say any thing at this late hour of the proceedings against Rhode Island, would be but mere repetition of narratives with which all the News-papers are filled—the whole may be summed up in a few words, & amounts to this—that an unfortunate storm (so it appeared,

            & yet, ultimately, may have happened for the best) and some measures taken in consequence of it by the French Admiral, perhaps unavoidably, blasted, in one moment, the fairest hopes that ever were conceived; and from a moral certainty of success, rendered it a matter of rejoicing to get our own Troops safe off the Island. If the Garrison of that place (consisting of near 6000 Men) had been captured, as there was, in appearance, at least a hundred to one in favor of, it would have given the finishing blow to British pretensions of sovereignty over this Country; and would, I am perswaded, have hastened the departure of the Troops in New York as fast as their canvas wings could convey them. What their present designs are, I know not—They are busily preparing however for something—Whether to operate against our Posts in the highlands (on Hudsons River) & this army—whether for a remove Eastwardly, & by a junction of their Land and Naval force attempt the destruction of the French Fleet at Boston, & the repossession of that Town—or whether to leave us altogether for the purpose of reinforcing Canada, Nova scotia, and their Islands, is a matter yet to be decided, and from the season must soon be determined.
          Many circumstances indicate a general movement, whilst others poin<t> out a partial one only, so that it is next to impossible to form a decided opinion of their plan—In short, my conception of the matter is, that they have none; but are waiting the orders of Administration, who were weak, & wicked enough, to expect something from their Commissioners; preparing in the meanwhile for their departure, if that should, instead of Lord Norths Ultimatum, be the determination—or, for some vigorous exertion, if coercion continues to be their plan.
          There is but two capitol objects they can have in view (except the defeat, & dispersion of this army) and those are the possession of the Fortifications in the highlands, by which means the communication between the Eastern & Southern States would be cut off—and the destruction of the French Fleet at Boston—These objects being far apart, renders it very difficult to secure the one, effectually, without exposing the other, eminently; I have therefore, in order to do the best that the nature of the case will admit of, strengthen’d the Works, & reinforced the Garrison in the highlands, & thrown the Army into such positions as to move Eastward, or Westward, as circumstances may require—The place I now date from is about 30 Miles from the Fort on the No. River, & I have some Troops nearer, & others further, but all on the road leading to Boston, if we should be dragged that way.
          Offer my compliments of congratulation to the young couple on the increase of their Family, and my love to my Sister & the rest of the family—and be assured that with every sentiment of Affection, I am Yrs

            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 24 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Frederick’s-burgh Septr 24th 1778.
            Parole Boston—C. Signs Philadelphia New-York—

          The General Court-Martial whereof Majr General Lincoln is President will meet next Monday at General Lincoln’s Quarters near Quaker-Hill where Head-Quarters are at present.


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 24 September 1778
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Poukeepsie [N.Y.] 24th Sepr 1778.

          I wrote your Excellency on the 20th Instant inclosing an Account of the Destruction of the German Flatts on the Mohawks River. Since I have been favoured with a Letter from Colo. Bellinger of which the inclosed is a Copy giving the particulars of that Unhappy Affair—Colo. Bellingers Letter was handed to me by Mr Herkimer Brother to the late General Herkimer who (as he is well acquainted with the Situation of that Country & the Distresses of the Inhabitants) I have prevailed upon to be the Bearer of this that he may afford your Excellency the fullest Information.
          From the first Appearance of Danger in that Quarter The Commanding Officers of the Militia of Albany and Tryon Counties have had my most positive Orders to keep out one fourth Part of their respective Commands on the Frontier And tho I am sensible my Orders have not been fully complied with; yet from the Returns made me it appears that a considerable Force has been constantly out on that Service; and I entertained Hopes that with the Assistance of Alden’s Regiment they woud have been able to have afforded some Security to the Frontier Inhabitants; but the Extensive Country to be guarded & the Want of Judgment in not fixing on the most advantageous

            Stations with some other Causes have rendered the Measures hitherto pursued ineffectual & I fear will End in the Total Loss of the many valuable Settlements on the River—Shoud this be the Case besides the Distresses which will be experienced by Individuals we will find it extreamly difficult to get the necessary supplies to Fort Schuyler and that important Post of Course very insecure.
          I have never been favoured with more than two Letters from Genl Starke on the Subject of his Command—the one last Spring—the other the latter Part of Summer neither of any Consequence, and if I may Judge from this and the Common Report of the Inhabitants corroborated by Complaints of the Civil Magistrates I may reasonably conclude that he has paid a greater Share of Attention to the Support & Encouragement of the disafected Subjects of this State on the Grants in establishing their usurped Government than to the Defense of the Western Frontier & Protection of its Inhabitants I am Sir with the highest Esteem & Respect your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

            Geo. Clinton


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Fletcher, 24 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Fletcher, Samuel

            Sir
            Head Quarters Fredericksburgh 24th Septr 1778

          Your Letter of the 18th inst., I received some Time ago.
          I have directed Mr Measam of the Clothier’s Department to repair to Hartford and Springfield, to superintend the repacking and assorting of the Cloathing, which has been ordered to those Places. In Case it does not supercede any Appointment of yours, made in Consequence of your Instructions, from the Board of War: However as it is so very necessary for him to see the Contents of the different Bales, previous to their Distribution to the Army, I have desired him, under those Circumstances, to attend & give his Assistance in Conjunction with the Person You have appointed for this particular Business. In Case of such Nomination on your Part, You will advise the Gentlemen of Mr Measams thereof, in Order to prevent Misunderstanding or Complaint on either Side. I am sir &ca.


Title: To George Washington from Captain Bartholomew von Heer, 24 September 1778
From: Heer, Bartholomew von
To: Washington, George

            Friedrisburg [Fredericksburg] Septembr 24the 1778.

          I have the honour to represent to his Excellence this smal Memorandum of the most necessary Suppli to myn Troop of Mareshose and likewiise to by [be] granded by his Excellence the Commander and Chief the Commission according to the Rang each Officeers halts [holds]. and that the Corps who I nouw have Established me [may] be cald the Mareshose wisch Name is justed by all powers in Europe, and shall begg the favour that ordres me [may] by [be] given trou the whole Army that no Reflection me [may] be med [made] upon the Corps weder [whether] by Officers or Men and that myn Soldiers me [may] due [do] theres Duty with Pleasure.
          No. 1. Commission for the Officers wanting of the Mareschose Light Dragoons.

          To Bartholomaw von Heer Captain Juni 1the 1778.
          —Bagge Christian Mancke Capt: Lieut: June 1th 1778.
          To Baron John Wolfen–First Lieutenant Sept: 1th 1778
          —Jacob Meitinger—Second Lieut: August 1th 1778
          —Mathias Schneider thirt Lieut.—August 1th 1778

          No. 2. A Order to drafft the Men outher [out of] the different Regiments of the Army.
          No. 3. A Order to the Clothier General to receive Schirts, Boots, and Blanquets for the Men, to complet them with their Uniform.
          No. 4. A Order to the Pay Master General to receive the Pay due to the Officers.
          No. 5 Memorandum of Captain Weiss. I have the honour to acquent his Excellence that Capt: Weiss who acted as Provood Martial woud by corrtissay to be granded to the Station of Kipen the Prowood to take caer [care] of the Prisoners but offred not to duty with William Hanch on informs my [me] that he is a unkairfull and drunken Men and wichs to a suchs Men the Provood kan not by [be] trusted wisch I know to myn selv that his behaviour is affect to Capt. Weiss information.
          I Begg hereby his Excellence consideration me [may] take Plass that I me [may] be granded with a Answer so sun [soon] as convenience and I am his Excellence most humble and most Obidient Servant

            Barth: von Heer Capt.of Mareshose Light Dragoons


Title: To George Washington from Major General Lafayette, 24 September 1778
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

            My dear general
            Camp Near Warren [R.I.] 24 September [1778]

          I am going to Consult your excellency upon a point in which I not only want your leave and opinion as the Commander in chief, but also your Candid advice as the man whose I have the happiness to be the friend—in an adress from the British Commissaries to Congress, the first one after jonhstone was excluded, they speack in the most di[s]respectfull terms of my Nation, and Country—the whole is undersign’d by them and more particularly by the president lord Carlisle—I am the first french officer in Rank of the american army, I am Not unknown to the British, and if Somebody must take Notice of Such expressions, that advantage does, I believe, belong to me—do’nt you think, my dear general, that I schould do well, to write a letter on the Subject to lord Carlisle, where I Should Notice his expressions in an unfriendly manner—I have mentionn’d some thing of that design to the Count d’estaing but want intirely to fix my opinion by yours which I instantly beg as soon as you will find it Convenient.
          As every thing is perfectly quiet, and general Sullivan is persuad’d that I may with all Safety go to boston, I am going to undertake a schort journey towards that place—the admiral has Several times express’d a desire of Conversing with me—he has also thrown out some wishes that some thing might be done towards Securing Boston, but it seems he alwaïs Refers to a Conversation for further explanation—my Stay will be Schort as I do’nt like towns in time of war when I may be about a Camp—if your excellency answers me soon I may Soon Receive your letter soon.
          I want much to See you, my dear general, and Consult You about many points, part of them are respecting myself—if you approuve of my writing to lord Carlisle it would be a Reason of Coming Near you for Some instants in case the gentleman is displeas’d with my adress. With the most perfect Respect, Confidence, and affection I have the honor to be My dear general Your most obedient Servant

            the Marquis de lafayette


Title: From George Washington to George Measam, 24 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Measam, George

            [Fredericksburg, 24 September 1778]

          The Board of War having directed that the cloathing which is to come on from Boston for the use of the army should be deposited in the first instance at Springfie[l]d and Hartford, there to be sorted and repacked and afterwards brought on to the army—You will proceed to those places and superintend the execution of this business, with all practicable dispatch; provided it can be done consistent with the arrangements which may have been made by Mr Fletcher, in consequence of his instructions from the Board—In doing this you will govern yourself by the directions you will receive from him or the Board of War—If any other person should have [been] appointed to take charge of this matter, it is not my intention to supersede the appointment; in that case however I would still wish you to give your assistance towards forwarding a business of such importance to the army. I have written to Mr Fletcher on the subject. I am Sir Yr most Obedt ser.

          p.s. Any cloathing which may be coming on marked for particular regiments are not to proceed so far as Fish Kill; but are to be stopped at Fredericksburgh <or> Danbury.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 24 September 1778
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

            Dear ginrol
            Pickskill, the 24 of Sept. 1778

          Larst night I recived a Leator from Collo. Spencor informing me that the Enimy had Landed at the English Nabor whod and ware on thar march to hackensack I immedat Called the ginrol ofesors togather to consult what was beast to be don it was concluded to Exammin the mens gons and Cartriges && and to have them ready for a march at the shortest notis when it shuld be thought beast or on reciveng your ordors I waited som tim for further Intelleganc but hearing non I rod down to Kings fary and on my way met 4 men with thar horses loded with bagig going back into the contry which said thay Cam from within 2 milds of tarytown who said the Enimy had Com out of New york in 3 larg colloms won by the way of maranack and won by taritown and won had gon into the jarsys: Just as I had got to the farry I meat won Capt. Jonston with a leator from Collo. hay which informed me that the Enemy had got as far as Sorolingbour Church and was incamped thare and it was said thay war waiteng for a wind to bring up the ships: the Enimy are Colecting all the catel Sheep & hogs thay can in this setuation shuld be glad of your Exelancys ordor’s what to do—I am sir with the gratest Estem your humbel Sarvant.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 24 September 1778
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Sept. 24th [1778] 9 oClock

          I have not been able to hear any Thing farther of the partie that Came out Yesterday. I detached Majr Lee this morning at day brake to watch their motions & if Possable to discover their intention. the flat Bottom boats being moved up to King bridg Leads me to believe they Ither intend to Turn my Right, whilst they amuse me in Front, or that they intend passing Some Troops over the river under Cover of this Partie, so soon as any thing turns up worthy Your Excellencys attention it Shall be transmitted without delay. I am daily discovering Stors of Rum Onions &c. in this Neighbourhood. that it Will be impossable For Me to say with any degree of Certainty when I shall be able to take my New position But am in hopes it will not exceed two days.
          I probably may want Some more hard money Shortly, as an officer is now going up, who will Diliver You this letter, Your Excellency will Be pleasd to Send Some down by him. I am Your Excellencys Obt Servt

            Chs Scott


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 24 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

            Dear Sir
            Head Qrs Fredericksburg—24 Sepr 1778

          I had the pleasure of your letter of the 21st Inst. containing the account of Admiral Byrons arrival at New-port in a ninety gun ship, accompanied by a seventy four.
          I have nothing of a particular nature for your consideration—and am D. Sir your most obt servt

            G. W——n

          p.s. Since writing the above there is accounts from deserters of two brigades being under imbarking orders for the West Indies, and that four of the Regiments were already on board.


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 24 September 1778
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Providence Septemr 24th 1778

          This morning at Day break I Received the Inclosed from the marquis Since which have heard nothing of the Fleet Seen off [Newport]. I think it must be the Fleet which arrived at Halifax with Troops Joined by Some others from that Quarter or from England The moment I can get any Information with Certainty Respecting it Shall forward it to your Excellencey in the Interim I have the honor to be very Respectfully your Excellenceys most obedt Servt

            Jno. Sullivan


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 25 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Fredericksburg 25th Sepr 1778

          I have been honoured with yours of the 20th and 24th instants; the latter by Mr Harkermir who gives a melancholy account of the distresses of the inhabitants at the German Flatts.
          To defend an extensive frontier against the incursions of a desultory Enemy is next to impossible; but still if you think the addition of another Regiment, ill as I can spare it, or a change of position in the troops that are already upon the frontier will answer any good purpose, I will most cheerfully comply.
          From every account, the enemy are upon the eve of some important move. Whether a total evacuation of New York will take place I cannot determine, but from a variety of intelligence preparations are making for a considerable embarkation. The uncertainty of the intentions of the enemy, who have their principal force collected at New York, renders it impossible for me to give that assistance to the

            frontier which I could wish, and which perhaps I might do were their views fully unfolded.
          When the Army came up from the plains, we brought up three Inhabitants of the County of West Chester detected in first inticing our Soldiers to desert and then offering to conduct them to the Enemy. I have not punished them by Martial Law, because I did not know but the Civil might take cognizance of them. They are now in confinement, and if you think proper that they should be delivered to the Civil power it shall be done. I am with the highest Regard Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Vice Admiral d’Estaing, 25 September 1778
From: Estaing, Charles-Hector Théodat, comte d’
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            Boston Road 25th September 1778.

          I have received the letter which Your Excellency did me the honor to write the 19th inst. I entreat you to accept all the thanks which I owe you, for the intelligence you have been so kind as to communicate. it perfectly accords with the little which I have received, both

            in point of the sickness of Byrons Crews, and the precipitation with which immense means of embarkation are preparing at New York—the inference to be drawn from the summer Clothing—is very important—as this is an article of the first necessity, it is difficult to make use of it in the way of a feint—if the fact alluded to can be ascertained, it appears to me that we should be furnished with solid grounds of reasoning—if we could not discover precisely the place, we should at least know the Climate—You have learnt that Admiral Byron and another Ship of his Squadron have arrived at Newport—Admiral Howe was to have sailed on the 16th for Europe in the frigate Maid Stone. it is said that Admiral Gambier has received letters appointing him Commander in chief of the british Naval force in North America—The Register informs us that Admiral Byron is his Senior—from whence we may conclude that the latter is not destined to remain here. Lord Howes departure in a single frigate is inconsistent with the return of the british forces to Europe—it would seem then that this event is to be preceded by an Expedition—I entreat you to communicate not only what you shall learn, but likewise what shall appear to you most probable.
          My last dispatches from my court are of the 7th July—they are exceedingly satisfactory for the common cause—and the Crisis of England must be this autumn in its last stage—Private letters many of which are credible, and which arrived by the vessel charged with my dispatches, have furnished the written hand-bill which I have the honor of annexing to my letter. I believe that there has been an engagemen<t> between the two fleets—the advantage on our side, without being absolutely decisive, appears to me too much repeated to be supposed false; it is certain that the best troops of france were upon the coast of Normandy and Brittany; as for the talents of Marshall de Broglie they are known—and Your Excellency should interest yourself doubly in his Success—for this great General has your portrait in his cabinet.
          Mr de la Radiere Engineer has I believe presented a memorial to General Heath—and the Council of State, relative to the defence of Boston—it would I believe be useful to carry at least a part of his plan into execution—if it should be consistent with your sage dispositions in moving on troops to different stages; to post some Continentals with a view of anticipating the arrival of the British—who have it in their power to debark much nearer Boston than is imagined—it would be very agreeable to me that your choice should fall on the Marquis de la fayette—he laments that he is no longer under your immediate orders—he thinks me somewhat blameable for it—& perhaps I might console him in part, tho’ feebly—Did you give him leave

            to send his Cartel to Lord Carlisle? I have no doubt but the Commissioner declined his proposal.
          Mr de bougainville in whom I have the greatest confidence in military matters—and my own reflexions persuade me that the hull requires more troops for its defence than I can furnish—especially at present when our Ships refitted will want them not only for the service of their Canon—but likewise for working them—for I should sail immediately if an opportunity offered of acting to advantage at sea—it is my intention therefore in case of the british Squadrons appearing, to ask for fifteen hundred militia men, to man the works and batteries of the hull—this might put it in Mr de Bougainvilles power to form a more respectable Column—for charging with the bayonet, whatever party should advance upon the isthmus which connects the hull and Alderton-point.
          Would not the circumstance of an unforeseen Sally on my part, make Your Excellency think it necessary to garrison Boston with Continental Troops? It is certain that I will not put to Sea inconsiderately—and that I shall endeavour in doing it to have the chances in my favour—but naval affairs are so uncertain, and it is so important that the Town of Boston should not fall a victim to them—that I think it incumbent on me to hazard this Reflexion—it certainly has not escaped Your Excellency—for my own part, it appears to me that the Step you have just taken towards us is a fortification. your name alone is become Bulwark.
          We are overwhelmed with kindness at Boston—the whole body of the State gives an entertainment to day, to the greatest part of our Officers—I was perhaps wrong at first in not annexing greater pomp to the duties which I had paid—for I think simplicity in forms is most proper for men of business and the military Stile—there was more ceremony in the Acknowlegements which I made two days ago for the Sympathy which was condescendingly shown for the fate of the unhappy Chevalier de St Sauveur—because I wished to prove to the people that we accused nothing but chance—The Result is a Public Dinner where Americans and frenchmen will unite in drinking your health. Accept the Assurances of attachment and respect with which I have the honor to be Sir Your Excellencys most obedt & most hble Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Lafayette, 25 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

            My dear Marquis,
            Fredericksburg in the State of New YorkSepr 25th 1778.

          Since my last to you, I have been honoured with your several favors of the 1st 3d & 21st of this month. The two first came to hand before

            I left the white plains—& the last at this place—I should not have Delayed acknowledging the receipt of the 1st & 3d till this time—(thereby neglecting to pay that just tribute of respect which is due to you) but for the close attention I was obliged to bestow on the Committee of Arrangement while they remained in Camp—To the march of the Troops since—and, to the several Posts which I found myself under a necessity of visiting in my way to this Incampment.
          The Sentiments of affection & attachment which breathe so conspicuously in all your Letters to me, are at once pleasing & honourable; and afford me abundant cause to rejoice at the happiness of my acquaintance with you. Your love of liberty—The just sense you entertain of this valuable blessing—and yr noble, & disinterested exertions in the cause of it, added to the innate goodness of your heart, conspire to render you dear to me; and I think myself happy in being linked with you in bonds of strictest friendship.
          The ardent Zeal which you have displayed during the whole course of the Campaign to the Eastward, and your endeavours to cherish harmony among the officers of the allied powers, and to dispel those unfavourable impressions which had begun to take place in the Minds of the unthinking, (from Misfortunes which the utmost stretch of human foresight could not avert) deserves, & now receives, my particular, & warmest thanks—I am sorry for Monsr Touzards loss of an arm, in the Action on Rhode Island; and offer my thanks to him, thro you, for his gallant behaviour on that day.
          Could I have conceived, that my Picture had been an object of your Wishes, or in the smallest degree worthy of your Attention, I should, while Mr Peale was in the Camp at Valley forge, have got him to have taken the best Portrait of me he could, and presented it to you; but I really had not so good an opinion of my own worth, as to suppose that such a compliment would not have been considered as a greater instance of my Vanity, than a mean of your gratification; & therefore, when you requested me to set for Monsr Lanfang I thought it was only to obtain the outlines and a few shades of my features, to have some Prints struck from.
          If you have entertained thoughts my dear Marquis of paying a visit to your Court—To your Lady—and to your friends this Winter, but waver on acct of an expedition into Canada, friendship induces me to tell you, that I do not conceive that the prospect of such an operation is so favourable at this time as to cause you to change your views. Many circumstances, & events must conspire, to render an enterprize of this kind practicable & advisable. The Enemy in the first place, must either withdraw wholly, or in part from their present Posts to leave us at liberty to detach largely from this army—In the next place, if considerable

            reinforcements should be thrown into that Country, a Winters expedition would become impracticable, on acct of the difficulties which will attend the March of a large body of Men with the necessary apparatus—Provisions—Forage & Stores at that inclement Season—In a word, the chances are so much against the undertaking that they ought not to induce you to lay aside your other purpose; in the prosecution of which you shall have every aid—and carry with you every honourable testimony of my regard, & entire approbation of your conduct, that you can wish—but as it is a compliment which is due so am I perswaded you would not wish to dispense with the form, of signifying your desires to Congress on the subject of your Voyage & absence.
          I come now in a more especial manner to acknowledge the receipt of your obliging favor of the 21st by Majr Dubois, & to thank you for the important intelligence therein contained—I do most cordially congratulate with you on the glorious defeat of the British Squadron undr A[dmiral] Kep[pel]—an event which reflects the highest honor on the good conduct & bravery of Monsr d’orvilliers, & the Offrs of the Fleet under his Command; at the sametime that it is to be considered, I hope, as the happy presage of a fortunate & glorious War to his Most Christian Majesty—a confirmation of the Ac[coun]t I shall impatiently wait, and devoutly wish for—If the Spaniards, under this favourable beginning, would unite their Fleet to that of France—together they would soon humble the pride of haughty Britain; & no longer suffer her to reign Sovereign of the Seas, & claim the priviledge of giving law to the main.
          I should be very happy in havg you with the grand army again, but the present designs of the enemy are wrapped in such impervious darkness, that I scarce know what measures to pursue to counteract them; & therefore have thrown the Army into a position to move either to Boston, or to our Posts in the highlands with equal celerity—If they do not mean to quit the United States altogether, there is but two objects, I conceive that they can have in view—namely—the Fleet at Boston, and the Posts just mentioned the last of which is the security of our communication between the Eastern & Southern States, and consequently of those supplies of Flour, on which the French Fleet, & our Troops to the Eastward, depend.
          The current stream of Intelligence from the Enemys Army point to an evacuation of New York—but, there is no ground on which to form a decisive judgment of this matter—my own opinion is, that they have not, at this time, any fixed object or plan; but are waiting orders from their Court, preparing in the meanwhile either to evacuate the City wholly or in part as they shall be directed. You have my free consent to make the Count D’Estaing a visit, & may signify my entire

            approbation of it to Genl Sullivan, who I am glad to find has moved you out of a cul-de Sac—It was my advice to him long ago to have no detachments in that situation, let particular places be never so much unguarded & exposed from the want of Troops. Immediately upon my removal from the White plains to this Ground the Enemy threw a body of Troops into the Jerseys, but for what purpose, unless to make a grand forage, I have not been able, yet, to learn. They advanced some Troops at the sametime from their lines at Kings bridge, towards our old Incampment at the plains, stripping the Inhabitants not only of their Provision & forage, but even the Cloaths on their backs & witht discrimination.
          The information my dear marquis which I beg’d the favor of you to obtain, was not, I am perswaded, to be had thro the channel of the Officers of the French Fleet, but by application to your fair Lady —to whom I should be happy in an oppertunity of paying my homage in Virginia, when the War is ended, if she could be prevailed upon to quit, for a few months, the gaieties, & splendor of a Court, for the rural amusements of an humble Cottage—I shall not fail to inform Mrs Washington of your polite attention to her. The Gentn of my family are sensible of the honr you do them by your kind enquiries & join with me in a tender of best regards; than whom none can offer them with more sincerity, and Affection than I do. With every Sentiment you can wish, I am my dear marquis Yr most Obedt & obleg F[rien]d

            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 25 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

            Dr Sir
            Hd Qrs Fredericksburg Sept. 25th 1778

          Your favor of Yesterdays date came to hand this moment A very little time must discover the designs of the Enemy, yet I can not conceive that they have any thing farther in view than to Forage and collect cattle, I would however have you to be in the most perfect readiness to oppose them where you are, or to move should it be necessary and you receive orders for that purpose. I am &c.

            G. W——n


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Charles Scott, 25 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Charles

            Dear Sir,
            Fredericksburg Sep. 25th—78

          Your Letter of yesterday 9 Oclock is just come to hand; & by the Officer you will receive twenty five Guineas. I earnestly entreat, that you will endeavour to get some intelligent person into the City, & others of his own choice to be Messengers between you and him, for the purpose of conveying such information as he shall be able to obtain & give. It is of great consequence to the French Admiral to be early, & regularly advised of the movements of the British Ships of War, at New York; and he depends upon me to give this advice—vague & idle stories therefore, which have no foundation in fact, ought not to be communicated by the person employed because false intelligence may prove worse than none; he should therefore examine well into, & compare matters before he transmits accts; always distinguishing facts of his own knowledge from reports. If Mr C——could be engaged in a Work of this sort, his discernment, & mean of information, would enable him to give important advices.
          To me, it is very important to get the earliest intelligence of the imbarkation of Troops—their numbers—&, if possible, destination. I am surprized that you should not be able to ascertain the motions & advance of the party from Kings bridge. They can scarce have in view to turn your right; but this should, nevertheless, be well guarded—You

            doubtless know that there is a passage over Croton at the Mouth, and that, that rout, is the nearest to Peaks kill, & the Pass of the highlands at the Continental Village; which, of all things, should be secured by us; therefore, in addition to what was mentioned to you yesterday I again repeat, that you must not let them get above you, either by Land or Water, so as to sieze that Pass before you. If they had a mind to inclose you, they would aim at your left flank. I am perswaded your vigilance will guard against either, & surprizes. I am Dr Sir Yr most Obedt Ser.

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 25 September 1778
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Lyons hous on the Bedford Road [N.Y.] Sept. 25th 1778

          I rcd Your Excellencys Favors of the 24th Through Colo. Tilghman at 2 oClock this morning.
          on tusday last a Considerable Number of the Enemy imbarked

            and fell down with the tide towards the Hook. their disteny is not Yet known—By two deserters I am told that when the detachment (I mentiond in my last) Marched the whole of their bagage as well that below The bridg as above was carryed to a large Stone hous Near Kings Bridg where the flat bottom boats Lay. I think it must have been taken there in order to Send off while they Amused us—on tusday Last there was a meeting of the Refugees from Long & York Islands Held in the City by a Genl order. Colo. Robertson attended the meeting and Laid the Business before them, which as Yet I am not able to know. Part of their Cavelry is Certainly imbarked on Wednesday Last, but it is possable they may Be going to the Jerseys. the enemy that came out Last Wednesday having taken post on Gil Volentens Hill & Within Striking distance of my Camp I thaught Prudance Dictated a move of my Corps, which was don This morning at 3 oClock, Leaving the picquets and Some Horse to watch their Motions, untill we could reach Our new position. there are Still remaining at Wrights Mills Some Onions and Damaged Flower, which will be got off this day, if the enemy Should not be advancing. I must Confess that it dos not admit of a doubt with me that they Will advance Ither this day or tomorrow, from every Acct That I am able to git my Partie is their Object. I have The pleasure to inform Your Excellency that my Preasant Position is very strong with an impassable country on my Right and left at least for Several miles, that I am perfectly Secure against Surprize. I have at last With much Difficulty procurd a proper person to Stay In York for the purpose of Intillegence, this togather With the person I mentiond to You, on York Island I Hope will be able to give us every possable intilligence Respecting the enemys movements. Should the enemy direct Their Course up the North river I will agreable to Your Orders Acquaint Genl Putnum of it with all possable Dispatch. I am Your Excellencys Obt Servant

            Chs Scott

          p.s. Since writing the above I am informd by a Horse Man of Colo. Blands that the enemy are advancing on The Albany road, he thinks not less than 3000 when he Left them they wear about four miles below tarry Town moving Briskly on. I have a number of good officers out Reconnoitering them, if they should Continue to advance (which I shall soon hear) I will Dispatch a messenger to Your excellency and another To Genl Putnum. particular attention shall be paid To Your orders of Yesterday respecting my falling back To the Hylands above Kings Ferry. my Camp is in Full view of the Sound for Near forty miles we Discover in it about twenty Sail they appear to stand For New York. Your Excellency may rest assurd that every thing possable shall be don not only for the Security of my own Camp but the armey at large.
          ½ past 1 oClock


Title: From George Washington to Captain Josiah Stoddard, 25 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Stoddard, Josiah

            Sir.
            Head Quarters [Fredericksburg] Septem: 25th 1778.

          I have received your letter of the day before yesterday, on the subject of contraband goods seized by your order.
          As the person accused of the illicit commerce & in whose hands they were taken—is committed to the custody of the civil magistrate; and will probably have his trial in due course—the Sentence passed on him, will determine the fate of the goods—in the mean time, to prevent loss or waste they should be deposited in the hands of some

            public person who will be responsible for their safety. I am Sir Your most obedt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 25 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

            Sir.
            Head Quarters [Fredericksburg] 25th Septem. 1778.

          I have received your letter of the 23d inst: the deficiency of remounts is an evil which does not admit of immediate remedy—as I cannot at present authorise the completing your number by purchase.
          The same reason will render it necessary for you to make the best use of those horses, which you say are so much reduced—it gives me pain, but I cannot forbear attributing the ill-state of the Cavalry in a great measure to the unrestrained licence of the Dragoons in the use of their horses—their speed is equally immoderate on all occasions, when they are detached; and I fear their horses are too freely employed  on their own private concerns—it is incumbent on the officers to pay the strictest attention to this matter, and eradicate an abuse, the ill consequences of which they have already felt.
          We have now a prospect of ample supplies of Clothing for the troops, in which the Cavalry will have their part. I am Sir Your most obedt Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 26 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Frederick’sburgh Septr 26th 1778.
            Parole Kenderhook—C. Signs Kent Keene.


Title: From George Washington to John Beatty, 26 September 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Beatty, John

            Sir
            Head Quarters Fredericksburg 26th Sepr 1778

          As the enclosed from Mr Mercerau respects your department I send it to you. The reasons, which induced Genl Sullivan to hinder

            the prisoners of the 71st Regt from going in at that particular time, do not now exist, and you had better order them on, if it does not contravene any of your own arrangements. As to what Mr Mercerau mentions respecting repairing Barracks &ca you will please to give proper directions. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Royal Flint, 26 September 1778
From: Flint, Royal
To: Washington, George

            Sir.
            Fred[ericksbur]g Sepr 26: 1778

          The unexpected demands for provisions at the eastward have nearly exhausted all the magazines of Flour east of Hudsons river.

          Should there be an expediency, during this campaigne, of collecting any considerable army, in either of the eastern states, I am convinced that with common exertions only, they could not be suppplied with bread. Our dependance cannot with the least degree of prudence be placed on the resources in N. England. If we look for supplies very far to the southward, the roads will soon become so worne & miry and the difficulties of transportation on other accounts so embarrassing, as to render succour from that quarter extremely inadequate & precarious. It might seem that the wheat in the state of N. York both in point of plenty & situation would afford ample & timely relief. But upon a strict enquiry into the circumstances of the public purchasers in this state, I find there are some peculiar difficulties which must be speedily removed, or this army, in a few weeks will be reduced to a scantiness, if not, an entire want of bread.
          There are now very large quantities of wheat in the possession of men whose disaffection to the measures of this country makes them unwilling to dispose of their commodities for Continental Bills. This however is not the only nor the greatest evil. Those men who either wish not, or dare not to object to the currency are induced to keep their grain under a pretence that the price will encrease. They are encouraged to this pernicious practice, both by the promises of men, who buy for purposes professedly private, as well as by other men who say they buy on contract for public uses.
          The contractors for the Fleet have contributed most notoriously to enhance the price of provisions & to interfere with men who only are the proper persons to buy for public purposes.
          A full representation of the matter is laid before his Excellency Gov. Clinton, and a request to him to grant such warrants to the purchasers as will enable them to obtain wheat, if the proprietors will not voluntarily sell it at the current price. Every inconvenience that will arise from the contract, and the other embarrassments in getting supplies are fairly stated to the Comisary General, who will be at Philadelphia the beginning of Octor and can consult with Congress on this alarming affair.
          It is sufficient for me to mention these circumstances to your Excellency; at the same time expressing my most anxious concern that the purchasing comisaries will not be able to fix any considerable magazines of flour unless they are authorized to use constraint in those cases where common methods prove ineffectual. I have the honor to be with real respect Your Exys most obt & humble Srvt

            Royal Flint A.C.G.P.