Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General La Neuville, 30 October 1778
From: La Neuville, René-Hippolyte Penot Lombart de Noirmont de
To: Washington, George

            Excellency
            Fredericksburg this 30. 8bre 1778.

          The Congress has granted me just now the brevate of Brigadier général dated from the fourteenth of august according their promises. my Satisfaction Should be compleat if I had been happy enough to deserve it under your eyes, but the Sun light[e]ns not at the Same time in the four parts of the world, and all the men can not enjoy his beams at the Same moment.
          being come in this country only to contribute in my Spher, as much as it could be possible to me to its happiness and advantage, to endeavour to get the esteem and friendship of the men who unhabit it, and not to give them Some reasons of Dissatisfaction or trouble, as I could not hope to be employed without disturbing the harmony, I Set out for france, comforted with the reflection that in fighting for my

            King, I Shall be usefull to his Allies, and Shall be able by this mean to acquit me Self With them for the obligations they have upon me by their granting of the grade of Brigadier. I am With the utmost respect, Excellency your most obediant Servant

            Laneuville

          Excuse me for the want of paper. I hope to have the honour to present you my respects me Self to morrow and ask your orders for France.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 30 October 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            30th October [1778]

          Since my last Letter under the 25th by Van Court I have had the honor of presenting to Congress Your Excellency’s favors of the 22nd and 23d.
          Your Excellency will find Inclosed herewith Copy of a letter which I have written to Major General Gates in Answer to Lord Balcarres’ application and also two Acts of Congress.
          1. of the 26th Instant directing Count Pulaski’s Legion and all the Cavalry at and near Trenton to repair to Sussex Court House and intimating a necessity for removing the Cavalry to places where they may be easily supplied with Forage.
          2. of the 27th for granting leave of absence to the Marquis de Vienne.
          By order of Congress I have issued Brevet Commissions to divers Officers as hereunder particularized.

              Monsr Touzard

              No. 1
              }
              To Rank Lieutenant Colonelfrom the 27th October 1778.

              Mr Brice, Aid tothe Marquis de laFayette
              }
              2

              Mr [ ] Nevill,another Aid tothe Marquis
              }
              3

          The Chevalier Failley 27th October 1778 to Rank Colonel from the 17th October 1777 in conformity to a promise made by General Gates for his services at and near Saratoga.
          Congress have added to Mr Touzards Commission a Pension of thirty Dollars per Month during Life, in consideration of his misfortune in losing an Arm in the late Action at Rhode Island.
          A late remittance of One Million has been made to the Paymaster General, and I have in my hands a Report from the Treasury for half a Million which I presume will be granted this Morning. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 30 October 1778
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Elizabeth Town [N.J.]October 30th 1778. 9 oClo. a.m.

          The Sixteen Sail of Ships I mentioned to be at the hook in my letter of Yesterday, were afterwards Joined by Seven Sloops & Schooners, and towards evening of the 28th went to Sea; Yesterday Morning the Wind Comeing in from the South East, this fleet returned to the hook where they lay at Sun Rise this Morning. Yesterday and the day before about Eighty Sail of Ships Cheifly transports with Troops fell down from New York to Staten Island; between Sixty and Seventy Sail lay there before, so that there appears now ready for Sea about 150 Sail.
          Wee have sent off from hence for New York within these three days upwards of Seven hundred prisoners of War Soldiers and Sailors, and at least an hundred more of Soldiers Wives and all Sorts from Philadelphia, ’till I belive they were tired of them, for General Skinner wrote me yesterday that he is directed to Signify to me that “no person will be admitted within the lines by flaggs of Truce or Otherwise, without the permission of the Commander in Cheif being previously Obtained.” They have sent out about 150 prisoners of Ours, Sergeants & privates, all Baylors horse Men & indeed all the other horse Men prisoners are now released. some of these say there are no Brittish Troops left in New York, the last Guards of the Provo’ was of Marines from on Board the Experiment. the Sergeant of the Provo’ (not of the Guard) told one of them that he was to embark as Yesterday Afternoon. On Staten Island there are no more troops left than the 42d & Boskirks and these are Stationed at the Watering place. Many Circumstances look like a total Evacuation and others against it; the tories and their freinds insist there is to be a Strong Garrison left. the exchanged men I shall send of[f] to day to their respective Regiments and shall send a list of them to the Adjutant General.
          I was going to enclose your Excellency the New York News paper of the 28th but the Marquiss de la fayette who is on his way to Head Quarters Insists on delivering it, for the benefit of reading it by the Way. I am your Excellency’s Most Obedient & Most Humble Servt

            Stirling,


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 30 October 1778
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Elizabeth Town [N.J.] Octobr 30: 1778—1 oClo.

          I have this Moment seen a Man from Staten Island, he Assures me the Ships have for Several days been Watering at every well & spring along the Shore of the Island, and that they are begining to drop down thro’ the Narrows, that this embarkation does Consist of Ten thousand Men, and that they only wait for Wind; that they are now prepareing for the embarkation of 6000 Men more, which is the Whole remainder, that they are to leave Rhode Island Also, and the Evacuation of the Colonies is to be Compleat.
          I have this Moment received the Enclosed letter from my Son at New york which was wrote Yeste<rda>y and therefore in some Measure differs as to the motions of the Ships. I am your Excellency’s Most Humble Servt

            Stirling,


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Duportail, 31 October 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle

            Sir,
            Head Quarters Fredericksburgh October 31st 1778

          I have received your favour of the 20th, inclosing your remarks on the state of the fortifications already erected for the defence of the Town of Boston, and on such amendments and additions as appear to you necessary to render them effectual. Your reasonings and observations appear to be strong and well founded; but at this distance, and without so perfect a knowlege of the local circumstances of the place, as I could wish, I cannot undertake to judge absolutely of the plan you propose—I have referred the consideration of it to General Gates—who is appointed by Congress to take the command at Boston, and who will no doubt adopt every measure proper to be taken on the occasion. You will be pleased to communicate with him on the subject.
          Though I think very little is to be apprehended at this late season, with respect to an operation against Boston; yet as it is a possible event, and as your presence would be very useful, should it happen—your determination to remain there some time longer, ’till the point is better ascertaind, is agreeable to me. I have it however much at heart that the security of Philadelphia should be better provided for than it now is, so that as soon, as the question concerning Boston is decided, I shall be glad to see you, that you may repair to Philadelphia. I have the honor to be With much respect & esteem Sir Yr most Obedt ser.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Ebenezer Gray, 31 October 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gray, Ebenezer

            Sir.
            Head Quarters Fredericksburg 31st Octobr 1778.

          It has been intimated to me that several persons, have gone over to Long Island, under the pretext of gaining intelligence, and indiscriminately distressed and plundered the inhabitants—As such a conduct is totally incompatible with obtaining information or making discoveries I do not imagine you have given any sanction to such proceedings. But that so pernicious a practice may be the more effectually prevented—you will prevent any persons whatever from making excursions to the Island—and only employ those as spies or observers, in whom you can place a proper confidence. I am Sir Your most obedt Servt

            G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 31 October 1778
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

            Dear General
            Head Quarters Boston 31st Octr 1778

          I now do myself the honor to inclose copies of several Letters which have passed between Major General Phillips and me if your Excellency shoud think it worth your while to give them a perusal.
          The reasons of first restricting him to his House &c. are fully known. The expressions contained in some of his Letters since, in particular

            that of the first of October, were the reasons for my refusing longer to transact public business with him. In every instance, since the Troops of the Convention have been placed under my direction, I have made it my aim to treat them with the utmost politeness, humanity and generosity, in every part of my conduct towards them.
          Some time since—Major General Phillips requested leave for Lieutenant Vallancy Asst Q.M. Genl of the Troops of Convention to go to New York to procure Cloathing for those Troops, for particular reasons, thinking it not for the interest of my Country to allow Lieut. Vallancy to go in, I refused it; but gave my consent for Lieut. Campbell, another Assistant Quarter Master Genl to go, who accordingly went in one of the returning Flags, (and has lately returned with the Cloathing) on the 27 of Septr General Phillips again applied for leave for Lieut. Vallancy to go in; (No. 1 is Copy) as Mr Clarke, the Commissary, was at that time going to Rhode Island and New-York with the public Accounts, and Lieut. Campbell then prosecuting his Commission, I, in a letter of the 30th to Genl Phillips (No. 2) denied the request as unnecessary. On which I reced an answer from him on the 1st of Octr (No. 3) on receipt of which, having the honor to hold a Commission in the Army of the United States of America I thought it my duty to treat him in the manner I have done. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedt Servant

            W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 31 October 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

            sir
            Head Qrs near Fredericksburg October the 31st 1778

          Your Excellency’s favor of the 23d Instant, was delivered me yesterday, with the Resolution respecting Monsieur L’Eclise. As soon as I am notified of the place of his residence, I will give the necessary directions, for carrying into execution the humane & benevolent intention of Congress towards him.
          I take the liberty to inclose a Letter from Doctor Connolly, representing his situation, His case I am persuaded, will have due attention, & such a determination as humanity and policy will justify.
          By intelligence received yesterday evening it is said, that Transports with Ten Regiments on Board had fallen down from York to the Watering place—that there were several other Ships laden (not said with what); and that there were Others at the Wharffs, taking in Troops. I cannot tell whether this intelligence is certain; for we have been deceived of late in points of information, that seemed to carry equal marks of authenticity. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt servant

            Go: Washington

          p.s. Just as I was closing my Letter, I received one from Lord Stirling dated yesterday at 9 oClock A. M. by which he informs me that on Wednesday & Thur[s]day about Eighty sail of Ships, chiefly Transports with Troops, fell down from New York to staten Island—and that Sixty or seventy sail lay there before.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel William Malcom, 31 October 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

            Sir
            Head Quarters Fredericksbg 31st October 1778

          I have been favd with yours of the 22d 24th and 29th with the several weekly Returns inclosed.
          The Commissary will take care to keep up the proper supply of provision for the Garrison. He tells me he sent a person over at the time I mentioned it, who procured the necessary returns from your Commissary for his information.
          The Barracks now built and to be built in the Fort will be for about two thousand Men including Artillery Artificers and all the persons necessary to the Garrison.
          I have approved the Sentence of the Court Martial agt Nuthall Qr Mr to the 3d No. Carolina Regiment.
          It appears by a representation made to me by Major Painter that the Court Martial by which he was tried was irregularly constituted. By the 7th Article of the 14th section of the Articles of War “No Feild Officer shall be tried by any person under the Rank of a Captain.” several of the Members were Subs., and I have therefore been obliged to direct the Adjutant Genl to order a new Court not of the Garrison but of the line, as Major Painter hints at partiality in his former trial. He can have no occasion to complain again should his sentence be the same.
          Our Accounts from New York are so various that I can form no opinion of the intentions of the enemy. One day we are told that the Merchants are generally packing up their goods for a removal—the next that the City will be garrisoned for the Winter. If you have any means of communication be pleased to direct any persons who go in, to visit the stores of some of the capital Merchants, who are attached to the British Army and who will not therefore dare to remain behind. There is one House in particular, that of Coffin and Anderson who supply the Army and will go where ever the Bulk of it goes. let their motions be especially watched. You will give such other directions for observation as your own judgment shall suggest. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Charles Scott, 31 October 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Charles

            Sir,
            Head Quarters [Fredericksburg] October 31st 1778

          I have received your two favours of the 29th and 30th with their inclosures. All the intelligence I can get from every quarter still leaves me in absolute doubt as to the intentions of the enemy. There are two points which would decide more than every thing else, and which are yet quite unascertained—though, they appear to be of such a nature, as to admit of an easy discovery. These are—the actual state of the magazines of forage and wood in the city; and whether there are any measures going on to lay in a fresh supply for the Winter—and the prepar[a]tions of the merchants attached to the army in packing up their goods &c.—There is one particular house that of Coffin and Anderson, which ought to be well attended to. I wish you to instruct all your spies to endeavour to fix these matters; and if they do their duty they cannot fail.
          There is one part of Major Lees letter, which you will be pleased to get him to explain—He says—“One fleet of transports with ten regiments and heavy baggage have fallen down to the watering place—Another fleet fully laden are about falling down &c.” This leaves it uncertain whether this second fleet was laden with troops, or with something else—perhaps stores or the like. If any good account could be obtained of the number of transports in the harbour—at the watering place[,] at the city, or any other place, it would be extremely useful; but this I am sensible will be difficult.
          Major Lee mentions that som[e] of the inhabitants of West Chester have been armed to apprehend deserters from the enemy—If this fact is certain—it were to be wished means could be fallen upon to detect some of them and bring them off, that they might suffer the punishment due to their wicked presumption.
          You mention in your letter of the 29th the necessity of your leaving the service. I am convinced that nothing but necessity could induce you to take this step; and I assure you, My Dear Sir, I sincerely regret that it should exist; and that the army should lose so valuable an officer. Though nothing would give me more pleasure than that some

            expedient could be fallen upon to reconcile the situation of your private affairs with your continuance in the service; yet if this cannot be the case, you cannot be expected to make an absolute sacrifice of the former to the latter. It will however be necessary for you to make application to Congress as it does not rest with me to accept the resignation of a general officer.
          Some circumstances have lately come to my knowlege, which confirm suspicions I have some time past entertained—that the parties employed to go on Long Island on pretence of procuring intelligence are mere plundering parties. I have lately heared that Capt. Leavensworth and Lockwood have been selling at Stamford, several kinds of cloths linnens ribbands—some cases of knives and forks wine glasses &c. which they brought from long-Island and that they made a distinction in the sale between hard money and paper money—That they have frequently done the same, extending it even to articles of womens wearing apparel. All this they pretend to be the property of tories—New levy officers &c.; which if even true is nevertheless unpardonable—because this was never intended to be the business of their incursions upon the Island. But I suspect their rapacity makes very little distinction between friends or foes. As I would wish to have these practices fully developped that the punishment may be adequate to the guilt—I am to request you will take effectual measures to have full inquiry made into them, in as cautious a manner as possible, so as not to give an alarm. I should be glad you could trace them to the source. Norwalk—Stamford and Bedford are mentioned as the places of sale. At Bedford a Mr Anderson formerly a printer at New York may throw light upon the affair. You had best send prudent officers in whose discretion and integrity you can confide to those places to make the inquiry—If you could even manage so as to have it extended to Long Island and could bring some of the sufferers to support the fact it would be desireable. So soon as you have sufficient reason to think the matters I have mentioned confirmed—You will have Capts. Lockwood & Leavensworth arrested and conveyed to Head Quarters—Inclosed I send you a letter for Major Gray which you will seal & send him. I am Sir Yr Obedt serv.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 31 October 1778
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir,
            Elizabeth Town [N.J.] Octobr 31: 1778

          My last went Yesterday afternoon by Colonel Cox. The Ships at the Hook and those at the Narrows were this Morning in the same possition as Yesterday, not haveing been Able to Move on account of the

            Weather; the Reports [from] both Amboy and the Hook agree that the 23 Sail at the Hook are frigates and other Armed Vessels vizt Eleven Ships five Brigs, three Schoners and four Sloops probably intended to go ahead of the grand Embarkation. As soon as the Storm is over I doubt not they will all be in Motion.
          A person who left New york yesterday has Just furnished me with the following particulars that there are three Embarkations on foot. In the first which is Compleated & ready to Sail there are twenty Regts and 200 horse under the Command of General Grant; In the Second there are Eight Regiments, and in the third three one of which is the 71st and He thinks Genl Campbell Commands the third; the weomen are embarked with the Men; from what he has heard Among their Officers, he is of Opinion that the first division is going to the West Indies, Second & Third to Hallifax and St Augustine & Pensacola. Lord Cornwallis going to England, Scarce any troops to be seen in New york but foreigners; that there are not Shipping enough at New york to take in the remainder of the troops. 3 oClo. I have this moment received the enclosed Note, and shall keep the most Sharp look out. I am your Excellencys Most Humble Servant

            Stirling,


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 31 October 1778
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

          Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. John Sullivan, 31 Oct. 1778. GW wrote Sullivan on 3 Nov.: “I have your favr of the 31st Ulto inclosing Major Talbots Account of the capture of the schooner Pigott.”


Title: General Orders, 1 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

    Head Quarters Fredericksburgh [N.Y.] Sunday Novr 1st 1778
    Parole LeminsterC.Signs Leo. Lannoy.


Title: To George Washington from John Beatty, 1 November 1778
From: Beatty, John
To: Washington, George

    sir
    Elizabeth Town [N.J.] Novr 1st 1778.

  The present movement of the Enemy preventing my Obtaining Leave to go into New York or Long Island for my immediate and personal Attendance to the application of the <illegible> for the use of the Prisoners as Ordered by the Congress will I fear detain me hear some time longer—I am promised however as soon as the Fleet has Sailed and things thrown into their usual Channel to be admitted, hope it will not <be> long—I wrote to your Excellency a few days ago <inc>losing a Copy of a Letter from the Board of War, respecting furnishing the British Prisoners with provisions Fuel &ca <and req>uesting the removal of Mr Franks and the appointment of some other Person who should be fully Competent to the Business The Original of which I had informed your Excellency I had Shewn to Mr Loring; since then am favoured with a Letter from New York, inclosing one to Mr Franks by Order of Sr Henry Clinton demanding the Authority he acted under and a dismission from any future Services in that Line—And requiring of me that I should forthwith furnish the Prisoners in our possession with the like Provisions, Fuel & ca that they did ours, both these Letters I have referred to the Board of War, and thought proper to acquaint Your Excellency <with> the Measures I am pursuing—I am sir with the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most Obt & Most Hume Servt

  Jno. Beatty Com: Gen: Pris.


Title: To George Washington from Theodorick Bland, 1 November 1778
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

              Letter not found: from Theodorick Bland, c.1 Nov. 1778. On 3 Nov., Bland informed GW that “I wrote to you a few days ago by Capt. Call relative to the officers.”


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 1 November 1778
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

    Dear Sir,
    Pokeepsie [N.Y.] November 1st 1778

I do myself the Honor to forward to your Excellency by Express an Act of the Legislature passed Yesterday the more effectually to provide Supplies of Flour, Meal and Wheat for the Army that the Commissary may take the earliest Opportunity of availing himself of the Advantages intended by it. I beg Leave to suggest that if the Commissary was to order into the State and deposit with his respective Deputies at least 4 or 5000 Bushels of Salt to be exchanged for Grain and Flour it would facilitate the Operation of the present Law and render it less exceptionable to the Farmer who may otherwise consider it a Hardship not to be able to dispose of the Produce of his Farm in such Manner as he may think proper for an Article so essentially necessary for his Use and not to be obtained but through some of the Neighbouring States who are unwilling to part with it without Flour in Return.
  I also inclose your Excellency a Copy of the Proceedings of the Senate in my Message to them of the 2[8]th Ult: accompanying your Excellency’s Letter and a Letter from Colo: Udney Hay Dy Qur Mr General on the Subject of Supplies for the Army and in Pursuance of their Request, recommend to your Excellency to order an Inquiry into the Conduct of the Purchasing Commissaries in this State to the Practices of some of whom they impute the present Difficulty of obtaining Supplies of Flour for the Army. I repose great Confidence in the Gentleman at the Head of that Department and I am persuaded the Legislature entertain a high Opinion of his Integrity but at the same Time I agree with them that there is Reason to believe, that some of those who have been employed under him have acted in such

    Manner as to render an Inquiry necessary and probably to merit severe Punishment. I am Sir, with the highest Esteem & Respect Your Excellency’s most obedt servt

    Geo: Clinton

P.S: I should be happy to know whether the accounts you may have lately received continue to indicate a speedy Evacuation of Newyork by the Enemy.

  G.C.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 1 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

    Sir.
    Head Qrs [Fredericksburg, N.Y.] Nov. 1st 1778

  I received yesterday, your favor of the 28th Ulto, and was sorry to find you were in want of flour. I had a Letter written immediately to the Commissary upon the occasion—and from his account, I hope you have obtained a supply before this. He says three or four parcels had gone from Danbury for Hartford in the course of the Week,

    and that more was on the road from Fredericksburg. Besides these supplies, he adds, that he had four Hundred barrels at Fish Kill for Eastern purposes, of which he had notified the Quarter Master General, who would put them in motion without loss of time. As to seizing flour belonging to private persons, I have no authority for the purpose. When the wants of the Army absolutely compell the measure, it must be justified on the principle of necessity.
The inclosed Extracts from Lord Stirling’s Letters of the 29th & 30th Ulto contain my latest advices, respecting the movements of the Enemy. I have similar intelligence from other Quarters, and it would seem, that a few days must certainly point out the part, the Enemy mean to take. I am sir Your Most Obedt servant

  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General La Neuville, 1 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: La Neuville, René-Hippolyte Penot Lombart de Noirmont de

    sir.
    [Fredericksburg, N.Y.] Novr 1: 1778

I just now received your favor of the 30th Ulto and am exceedingly obliged by the very polite terms, in which you are pleased to express yourself. As I applaud your zeal & the motives, which brought you to this Country, I cannot but regret, that the circumstances of the Army did not afford you more satisfactory opportunities of serving. I am persuaded if they had, you would have improved them in a manner—that would have done honor to yourself—and justified the confidence reposed in you.
I shall consider myself happy in seeing you before your departure and am sir with great respect and esteem Yr Most Obedt st

  G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 1 November 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    [Philadelphia] 1st November [1778]

  With this Your Excellency will receive my Letter of the 30th which has been two days in the hands of Colonel Gimat; this Gentleman

    being detained by some prospect of receiving an Act of Congress in his favor in a day or two, I judge it best to forward the public Dispatches by an Express Messenger.
Yesterday I had the honor of presenting to Congress your Excellencys’ several Letters of the 24th, 26th and 27th Instant. the former together with the Return which accompanied it, is committed to a Committee appointed to prepare a Plan for procuring Reinforcements for the Army. The latter produced a Resolve approving the reasons for not undertaking immediately an Expedition against Chemung which Your Excellency will find inclosed.
I shall likewise transmit herewith a Letter of the 24th October 1778 from Nicholas Depui and others and two Affadavits referr’d to in the Letter which Congress refer to Your Excellency’s consideration. I have the honor to be &c.

P.S. This instant the Printer has sent in a Packet of printed Manifestos by Congress, which Your Excellency is requested to distribute by proper means at the several Posts of the Enemy North and East of this place, within these States. Fifty of these Papers will be found under Cover with this.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 1 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

    My Lord
    Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 1st Novemr 1778

I have been favd with yours of the 26th containing your opinion upon the cantonment of the Army, and of the 29th and 30th ulto with a variety of information. Matters seem drawing very near a Crisis, and a few days will in all probability determine our doubts.
In a letter, which I recd from General Scott last evening, he mentions, that a report prevailed in New York that Jamaica was taken, and that Rum and Molasses had rose to an extravagant price in consequence. If West India produce has taken a sudden start, may it not be owing to the purchases of Speculators, upon a prospect of an evacuation? They must be sensible of the high prices of sugars, liquors &ca among us, and of the certainty of making a vast profit, should they be able to sell them to the Country at large. It is not however impossible but another stroke may have been struck by France, in the West Indies, and is a matter worth making particular enquiry after. I am my Lord with great Regard Yr most obt Servt

    Go: Washington

P.S. Could you by any means procure me one of Dollonds very best pocket Telescopes from N. York you would oblige me. I will furnish the Amt in hard Money.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 1 November 1778
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

    Dr Sir
    Elizabeth Town [N.J.] Novr 1: 1778

  By the enclosed letters your Excellency will find that the Enemy are in Motion notwithstanding the Badness of the weather; that to the amount of 50 or 60 Sail of Ships fell down to the hook yesterday is Confirmed from Amboy, with this addition that more are Continually

    falling down, this last Circumstance is also Confirmed from Staten Island. I have Just seen Six persons from New York, they all agree that the Embar[ka]tion is Still going on, and that it is Cheifly for the West Indies. that the Tories are in dispair and begin to think they will soon be left without a Garrisson. I can hear nothing more of Gray’s Secret Expedition.
I have this Moment received the enclosed letter from Colonel Lindsley. the prisoners are of 46th Regt & say that there about 200 men at powles hook, Cheifly Invalids of every Corps, their Regiment embarked & Sailed down yesterday. I am your Excellency’s Most Humble Servt

    Stirling,

3 oClock.

I have lost one of my Glasses & can Scarce see to write.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Goose Van Schaick, 1 November 1778
From: Van Schaick, Goose
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Continental Village [N.Y.] 1st Nov: 1778

General Clinton having informed me that my Regiment is Shortly to Releive that of Colonel Gansevoort’s now at Fort Schuyler, I have taken the Liberty to request your Excellency for leive to precede the March of my Regiment a few days, in order to make some Provision for my Family at Albany, where I shall be ready to join the Regt and proceed with it to Fort Schuyler, my Lieutenant Colonel & almost all the officers are present. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s—Most Obedient Servant

  G.V. Schaick


Title: General Orders, 2 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

    Head-Quarters Fredericksburgh [N.Y.] Monday Novr 2nd 1778.
    Parole KaminecC. Signs Kenderhook. Kings bridge.

  As the Campaign is drawing to a Close and the Commander in Chief is desirous of affording the Officers an opportunity of seeing their Friends and Families as far as it can be done consistent with the publick service; The Brigadiers and Colonels commanding Brigades are requested to grant Furloughs to the officers of their respective Commands under the following restrictions, viz., to one Field Officer of each Regiment and to one Commissioned Officer of each Company at a time: They are not to be given to a greater proportion of

    Officers at once and in this only but when there will remain two Field Officers and two Commissioned Officers to each Regiment and Company respectively, except there should arise cases of very pressing and extraordinary nature of which the General Officer having the General command of the Post, Division or Detachment in which the Officer requesting such Indulgence is, is to judge and to act as he shall think proper.
As the Length of Furloughs must depend upon the Circumstances of distance and some other Considerations, the General cannot prescribe the time for which they are to be granted, but He most fully confides that they will be given only for a warrantable time, that the Officers remaining may experience like Indulgences in Succession and to which they will have an equal Claim upon every Principle of Justice and Generosity.
As the troops are about to receive new Cloathes the General hopes and expects that the Colonels & the rest of the Officers will give particular attention to their preservation as well for the sake of their own reputation and the appearance of their Corps as the great difficulties which attend the procuring them, and that they may be the better preserved, He enjoins in the most pointed manner that after their delivery, Company-Rolls be kept of the same with proper Columns for each Article; That these be examined at least once a Week by an actual View of the Articles and that every deficiency and loss unless satisfactorily accounted for, and every neglect of sufficient Care in the soldiery, be furnished with proper severity, according to former Orders—To all of which on this subject there is to be a strict regard.
The General also hopes that the Officers will pay constant attention to the Cleanliness and Dress of the men and the fitting of their Cloaths in the first instance, without those they must be sensible that they can never assume the Air of soldiers or appear to the least advantage.
After the troops have received new Cloathes the Officers commanding Regiments are to be very careful in causing the proper Officers to make the earliest delivery of the old (that is of the Coats Jackets and Breeches) fit for service to the Cloathier for which they are to obtain two Receipts—one to be kept for their own justification the other to be returned to Head-Quarters.
The old Cloathes are to be well aired and the Cloathier is to have them packed in secure Casks, keeping an account of the uniforms and the whole together as far as circumstances will permit.
That Casks may not be wanting for this purpose the old cloathes are to be returned in those which carry the new to the several Brigades.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 2 November 1778
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Springfield [Mass.] 2d November 78

The inclosed Letters from The Generals Heath, & Sullivan, clearly shew, that The Enemy do not meditate any Attack to the Eastward; it is now too Late: I also send Your Excellency a Memorial from the Offi cers of the three Brigades here. it is matter, which they seem exceedingly Anxious may be reconsider’d—Major Mesam has got the Orders he required, and Assures me General pattersons Brigade are not forwarder in their receipt of Cloathing than the rest; he therefore, has got his Order with the Others—I shall be at Worcester tomorrow and shall be happy to receive your Excellencys Commands either there or at Boston. I am Sir Your Excellencys most Obedt Servant

  Horatio Gates


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 2 November 1778
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

    Dear General
    Head Quarters Boston 2d Novr 1778

Finding it impracticable for the Troops of the Convention to begin their march the Day after to morrow, as was intended, I am this moment obliged to defer it until Saturday morning when I hope every thing will be in readiness.
Inclosed is a request made by Brigadier General Hamilton. I have consented to the Officers, Sick &c. mentioned in the Letter, remaining here until your Excellency’s pleasure is signified.
At the earnest request of Brigr Genl Bailey of the Grants, I have ordered him 50 Blankets and a few Kittles for an Enterprise which he informs me could not be carried on without. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt hume Servt

  W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from George Measam, 2 November 1778
From: Measam, George
To: Washington, George

    Sr
    Springfield [Mass.] Novr 2d 1778.

I take this first opportunity to represent to your Excellency the Number of Men each Regiment in General Gates’s Division has been returned for Cloathing, and which the General has been pleased to Order me to Deliver Cloathing to, agreeable to the proportion Cited in Your Excellencys Letter of the 27 Ulto, this may serve to prevent any part of them drawing again in Your Camp and is as follows (Viz.)

      Col. Baily’s Reigt Massechts.
      Men
      Col. Cilly’s 1st Reigt

      358
        of New Hampshir
      451

      Col. Wessens   Do
      Do
      332
      Col. Scammell

            3d
            Do

            2d
            Do

      316

      Col. Michl Jacksons
      Do
      276
       Col. Hales.
      338

      Col. Bradfords.
      Do
      256
      Col. Hazens.

      507

      Col. Marshall
      Do
      255

      1612

      Col. Tupper, Late Francis
      Do
      334
      Massachust.

      2089

      Col. Brewer
      Do
      278
      Men

      3701

      2089

  No part of them are yet Delivered, and I wish they may not until I shall Have Your Excellancy’s approbation, but if they Come for them (as one already is) I don’t See how I Can avoid it as each Return has the General’s Order on the Back of it. I have no Blankets Shoes or Hats to Deliver them; I represented to the Generals and Officers Your Excellancies peremptory Orders to have the Men’s old Clothes returned into the Store, but they all Strongly Oppose it, and say they have remonstrated that Matter to your Excellancy and will not Deliver them up Until they know your Excellancy’s answer to their Remonstrance, I hope for your Excellancy’s further Instructions on this Head and have the Honor to be, Your Excellancy’s Most Obedt, and Most Humble Sert

    Geo. Measam

P.S. The Cloathing for your Camp from this Store is and will be (I hope) all on the road this Week. I Mean all that is in this Store: And their Colours shall be forwarded as Soon as Can be assertaind.
I inclose to your Excellency, Invoice and Rect of three Hhds Cloathg for General Nox’s Artillery, which he is to take for your Excellency’s further orders. amount as pr Invoice and Rect £3121.16 Lawful Money.

  G.M.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Peter Muhlenberg, 2 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Muhlenberg, Peter

    Dear sir.
    Head Quarters Fredericksburg [N.Y.]2d November 1778.

The departure of General Gates makes it expedient to send forward another officer to his command. For this purpose I have ordered General Putnam to Harford. The Genl will communicate to you such of his instructions as respect the division, or any other information which may be necessary for your goverment. I am D. Sir your most hble servt

  G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 2 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

    Dear Sir;
    Head Quarters Fredericksburg [N.Y.]November 2d 1778

General Gates having been ordered by Congress to repair to Boston and take the command of the Eastern district; I have thought it best, that you should proceed to Hartford and take the command of the division late General Gates, consisting of Poor’s, Patterson’s and Larned’s brigades. This you will, therefore, be pleased to do without delay. The standing order for that division is that it is to remain at Hartford ’till further orders from me, or till the arrival of the enemy’s fleet to the Eastward shall demonstrate that they intend a serious land operation that way; in which case You are to advance and give me instant notice of it, as it is my intention on such an event to proceed immediately Eastward.
You will communicate to General Mughlenbergh on whom the command of your division will now devolve—whatever instructions you have received from me respecting it, and whatever other information may be necessary for his government. I am Dr Sir Yr most Obedt servt


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 2 November 1778
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Near Bedford [N.Y.] Novr 2d 1778

Your Excellencys favour of the 31st October Came to hand the Same evening. I observe Your Surprize, that no intillegence can be had with any Degree of Certainty. Respecting the Magazines of Forrage and wood. I assure You Sir it has been my Constant instructions to every person in my imploy, to make particular inqurery into these Matters and have been astonished that so Semple a thing could not Be known with Exactness. however I have now a Gentn In the City. who is expected out or a letter from him on thirsday Next & if Nothing happens to prevent him, I am Shure he will Give me the Very best intilligence of every thing Possable, he is Really a Gentleman, I recd a letter from Him about two days ago through the Channil he had Laid out. he informs me that he was advancing with Much Ease to answer every wish I had Respecting Intilligence. I know his train is well laid and I’ve no doubt of his Success. Capt. Walls is on the Jersey shore from whom I expect an Acct of the Shiping So Soon as the Wind Lies. his Boat is Small and I am fearfull he Cant git over or I should have Heard from him before this, he told me when he Was hear last that he thaught the Number & Size of the Shiping might be known from the Hills on the other Side. I desierd him to endeavour to git them as near as possable and report to me immediatly. with what ever Movements may be.
  I observe Your Excellencys Instructions about Capt. Leavenworth. I have long since been led to Believe that he was Misspending his time and have Wrote him Repietedly about it. Strictly forbiding Him to touch a Single thing on the Island. for that It would totally Destroy our plan for Intilligence However previous to my orders he had taken Some things that he told me belong’d to an officer of one the New Corps. as they wear taken and he assurd me from An officer, I gave him Leave to Sell them with orders Never to attempt a thing of the Kind again. I have Since, been informd that that was not the only hous that He had Robed. under pretence of their Being New leavy officers or torys. I was, at hearing this determind to Recall him. but fearfull it might cause an alarm Before the Matter Could be properly fixed I thaught It best to let him Stay and keep out Spys on him which I have had Several days past. and So Soon as I can be able To fix and Support the Charge he Shall be put in Arest & Sent agreable to Your Excellencys Instructions. I am very Fearfull he will prove a Rascul, however I put no dependance on him for intellegence nor hant for Some time. Mr Pine is imployd in that Quarter who is An exceeding good man. by whom I received Some intelegence Last evening You

    have it inclosd as also an Account from a person from York Last Fryday With <M>ajr Lees Explanation enixed. I am Your Obt Servant

    Chs Scott

Since Sealing my letter I am informd by an officer from Colo. Gist, that troops wear imbarking on fryday, and that it is Generally thaught By the inhabitance that the City will be evacuated in twelve or fifteen Days.


Title: General Orders, 3 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

    Head-Quarters Frederick’s burgh [N.Y.] Tuesday Novr 3rd 1778.
    Parole AlderneyC. Signs Acton. Artois.

  The Pennsylvania Brigades to hold themselves in readiness to march at an hours warning.
The Deputy Cloathier General will exert himself to have the Cloathing that is returned in carried to Fish-Kill as soon as possible—The Officers now in Camp to procure Cloathing for the several Brigades, are desired to use all possible dispatch in drawing their respective quotas & sending them off.
  After orders.
  The Park to move as soon after the order of March is given them as their horses can be brought to Camp from their several Forage-Yards.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Theodorick Bland, 3 November 1778
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

    Sr
    Bedford Township [N.Y.] Novr 3d 1778

  By Leiut. Col: Temple (who goes to head Quarters, for the purpose of settling some accounts with the Auditors,) I have the Honor to inform yr Excelly that I have taken every step in my power, to induce the men of my Regt to reenlist, and altho there appears among them a great disposition to Continue in the Service during the war, yet only one man has yet enlisted, They seem unanimously to expect to return home before they enter into a new engagement. There times will expire on the 1st of next month, and from what I can collect from the Officers, (who I have desired to speak to the men individually,) as well as those men I have spoke to my self on the Subject; the best method wd be to March them to their respective homes so that they might arrive some few days before their terms of Enlistment expires and to pay them their arrears up to that time; for I have ever observed that strict Justice mixd with a proper proportion of generosity is the best

    perswasive for a Soldier to continue in the Service. I wd beg leave to Suggest to yr Excelly that there are a considerable proportion of the 7th & 12th Virga Regts whose times are within a few days of Expiring, & to submit it to Yr Excy whether it wd not be proper, to allow me to recruit men from those Regts out of such as will not again Enlist into the Infantry. You are no stranger Sr to the great disproportion of the bounties allowd in the State of Virginia between the Horse & foot recruits which renders it almost impracticable to obtain recruits for the former in that State, without some such priviledge I am almost confident it will not be in our power to Complete the Regt to the full Complement. To recruit the Regt to the full Complement, allowing only 20 Dolls. ⅌ man including the old men it will require on the best computation I can make Six thousand four Hundred Dollars, which if Yr Excelly thinks proper you’ll will please to give an Order for with such instructions concerng the recruitg Service as you may think necessary. Shd Yr Excellency think it expedient that the men shd be gratified in their request to be marched home I wd take the liberty to inform you that several Parties of the Regt are at this time detached which it might be proper to have Yr orders to Join the Regt as soon as possible some of them being with Genl Gates Others with Lord Stirling and otherwise variously dispersed. I wrote to you a few days ago by Capt. Call relative to the officers, concerng the appointment of which shd be glad to receive yr Excy’s commands & am with the Greatest respect sr Yr very obedt Sevt

  Theok Bland


Title: From George Washington to Colonel John Crane, 3 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Crane, John

    Sir
    Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 3d Novr 1778

I have recd a request from Lieut. Dunnell of your Regt for liberty to resign. He has produced your Certificate that he is not indebted to the Regt or public. You may therefore indorse his discharge upon his Commission. Be pleased to inform me of the time of resignation that I may register and transmit it to the Board of War. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 3 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

    Sir
    Head Qrs [Fredericksburg, N.Y.] Nov. 3d 1778

  In my Letter of the 29th Ulto, I transmi<tted> you a Copy of a Resolution of Congress, directing the removal of the Convention Troops; a copy similar to which had been forwarded before to General Heath. By a Letter from him of the 28th, he asks whether it may not be best for their Heavy baggage to be sent by Water. It appea<rs> to me that it will, and it may be waterborne, as far as the falls of James river. If the Troops have flag Vessels of their own at Bosto<n,> or the Officers choose to provide ’em themselves, the baggage, except such as they may judge necessary to take with them, had better go in them; If otherwise, you will be pleased to direct proper ones to be provided for the occasion. In either case, it will be right for General Philips or Generals Riedsel and Hamilton, as well as yourself to sign & counters<ign> as circumstances may require, the passports which it will be necessary to furnish. I should also suppose it adviseable for One or more of their Quarter Masters to go with the Vessels. I have also written to General Heath upon the subject, in case this should find you still at Hartford.
  I am this minute favoured with your Letter of the 28th and regret the captivity of so good an Officer as Captain Goodall; but I cannot direct the Commissary to give him the preference, that you request. There are many other Officers of merit prisoners, who have experienced a much longer confinement. Were I to postpone their releasement—I should subject myself, at least, to their complaints—and to a charge of partiality. It has been a rule with me, which has never been deviated from by my order or consent in a single instanc<e,> to have prisoners exchanged, both Officers and privates, according to the priority of their captu<re,> as far as the circumstances of rank and number would apply; and this appears to me, to be founded in principles of equal justice—and the only one—that will or can give general satisfaction. I am sir Yr Most Obedt servt

  Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Ebenezer Gray, 3 November 1778
From: Gray, Ebenezer
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Norwalk [Conn.] November 3rd 1778

I am happy that I can inform your Excelly that there hath been no Robberies nor plundering done by any Boats that I have sent to the Iland.
  it was intimated to me about 3 or 4 Weeks since that a Privateer whale Boat from this Port had robbed a Person on the Iland six

    mile from Shore, I have Indeavoured as much as in me lay to Obtain proper Proofs of it but have not been Able to obtain them, the fact I beleive to be true but the People who have the Knowledge of it dare not Testify it[.] <Sinc>e that Time I have not permitted an<y B>oat to pass to the Iland without Permission & sufficient Assurances of their Good Behavior; several Robberies have been committed by People from Milford of which sufficient Testimony may be had which I suppose gave rise to the Intellegence recd by Your Excelly[.] I have Two Persons on the Iland who have been there sometime, who will be brought off this Night, by whom I expect some late & authentick Intellagence which shall be Immediately forwarded to Head Quarters. I am Your Excelly most obedt & Hume Servt

    Ebenezer Gray

for a Week past the Weather hath been such that no Boats could Cross to the Iland.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Josias Carvil Hall, 3 November 1778
From: Hall, Josias Carvil
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Fish-Kills [N.Y.] Novr 3d 1778

Agreable to your Excellencys Instructions I have sent a Return of the Draughts inlisted in the 2d Brig: of Maryld.
None of the Regts have recruited any but the 4th and they only two since they received the Money.
In recruiting we are confined to our respective Regts & the 4th have no more Draughts worth the Bounty. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellencys very H’ble Servt

  Jo. Carvil Hall


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 3 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

    Dr sir
    Head Qrs [Fredericksburg, N.Y.] Nov. 3d: 1778

I have been favoured with your several Letters of the 23d—26th & 28th Ulto—the first and last of which came to hand last night and this morning.
  On the 29th, I wrote you of the difficulties that attend the procuring of flour. The Commissary I am persuaded, does not leave a step

    untried to obtain supplies; but it will be, at least, immensely difficult to do it. The loss of the Biscuit was an event foreseen by many—and what might be reasonably expected. The Enemy did not intercept any of our Convoys of provisions, while they were in <Jerse>y as you had heard.
  With respect to the removal of the Convention troops—the Resolution of Congress which was transmitted you, requires the measure and points out the only condition, on which they could have remained. I was nothing more than a mere vehicle—an Instrument in forwarding of it, that it might have the intended operation. It will be certainly best for their baggage to go by Water into James River, from whence it may be transported to the Falls—and from thence to the places where the Troops are to quarter. If they have flag Vessels of their own at Boston or choose to provide them, the Baggage had better go in them; If otherwise, you will direct proper Ones to be provided for the occasion. In either case, it will be prudent for you and General Philips, or Generals Riedsel & Hamilton, to sign the passports which it will be necessary to furnis<h.> I should also suppose it adviseable—for One or more of their own Quarter Masters to go with the Vessels. I am Dr sir with great regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt sert

    Go: Washington

P.S. My Letter of the 29th inclosed a Copy of a Resolve of Congress appointing General Gates to command in the Eastern district. I transmitted him a Copy of the Resolution directing the removal of the Convention Troops—and write him by this conveyance upon the subject of their baggage in case he should be at Boston.


Title: From George Washington to Patrick Henry, 3 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Henry, Patrick

    Dr Sir,
    Fredericksburg in the State of New-YorkNovr 3d 1778.

Your favor of the 15th Ulto came to my hands by the last Post. Soon after the date of my Letter giving you an acct of Captn Henry’s having left the Service, I was informed (upon further enquiry after him) that he had got no further than Elizabeth town in the Jerseys & was there rather distressed for want of money, having been indisposed at that place for sometime. Colo. Bannister being then in Camp, & just setting out for Phila., was requested by me, & very readily undertook, to furnish what Money he wanted; & in other respects help him on to

  Virginia—this was about the middle of Septr; since which I have not heard of him, but hope he is with you ere now.
The Enemy have Imbarked a considerable part of their Troops at New York, & the transports have fallen down to the hook—the Imbarkation still continues; but there is no evidence, so conclusive, as to lead to a demonstration that they mean a total evacuation—the proofs are equivocal—& will apply to a general, or partial one. A short time, perhaps by the end of our days of Grace (the 11th Instt) matters may be reduced to a certainty. I have little doubt in my own Mind, but that the greatest part of the Troops Imbark’d, & Imbarking at New York, are destined for the West Indies & their Posts—Boston & Charles Town are also talked of but with no other view, I conceive, than to perplex & confound the judgment; & yet, so far as any collateral enterprizes (in pursuance of their Predatory & Nefarious plan) can be undertaken subsurvient to & correspondant with their more enlarged & important views, I have little doubt of their attempting them—For if motives of policy do not restrain, sure I am that those of generosity & humanity will not prevent them from committing as much devastation as they can upon our defenceless towns—Country Seats—& helpless Women & Children. resentment, & unsoldiery practices in them, now seems to have taken place of all the Manly virtues—As I wish self interest, in the shape of forestalling, Engrossing &ca may not do among us, if not checked in time by well applied & vigorous Laws in the several States. I am with the most sincere esteem & regard Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt H. Ser.

  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Henry Jackson, 3 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Jackson, Henry

    Sir
    Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 3d Novemr 1778

I have recd requests from Lt Jno. Jackson and Ensign William Barber both of your Regiment for liberty to resign. The former has produced your Certificate that he is not indebted and if the latter is in

  the same situation, you may give them discharges which are to be indorsed upon their Commissions. Be pleased to inform me of the times of their resignations that I may register and transmit them to the Board of War. I am &c.

  Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 3 November 1778
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

    Sir,
    Camp Second Hills [New Milford, Conn.] Novr 3d 1778.

  Since I had the Honor to address you last, I was favoured with your Excellencys Commands of the 24th Ultimo; throˆ Farmington. If the Enemy had appeared in the neighbourhood of Connecticut, or near it, I should not have considered the spirit of my first orders, binding to remain at Hartford, till I should receive others, as I knew the object of marching the Troops, from Fredericksburgh and Danbury, was to be in readiness, to oppose the Enemies opperation to the Eastward. But I am happy, that all doubt is removed on that head. Upon reviewing the opinion I gave you, on the Subject of the Questions proposed to the Council of war; I find, I reasoned on the Enemies force in Newyork and its dependences, to be 15,000; which Is A mistake; For they are placed by your Excellency, at 13,000. As this makes the Force of the Enemy, 2,000 less, than the Ground on which I advised, a third of our Army, to be quartered in Jersey; the reasons on which I gave that advice, are more conclusive; and in my opinion, that measure will not be attended with any danger to the Army, or the Corps, which may winter in that State. Althoˆ the weather has been fine for carting Since I came here, and the roads in Good order, Yet the Division has not had two days flour in Store; at any one time; which Strengthens my apprehentions, of the impartcability of Substining the whole Army, on the East of Hudsons River; when the former will be bad, and the Latter much injured; and rendered, very difficult. The advanced Season now, makes it morally, certain, that the Enemy will not carry on, any Capital opperations in the United States, East of N. York; this Campaign. The Cloathing of Col. Putnams regiment, is at Fish Kill; and as the weather is growing cold, wishes to know, whether it is your

    pleasure, he should Send for them; or wait the Probability, of being ordered nearer the river, with his Corps? There are more Furloughs, on the face of the returns of this Division, than I am perswaded is agreeable to you. I beg for directions on that Subject; I have given none to privates. I have a good report of Lieut. Col. Hales, repairing the roads, from New-Miford to Litchfield; the route to Farmington. A Party is a Second time, on those from this, to wood bury; who will soon meet one, under Major Gravenor returning from Farmington. As the roads from Kings Ferry to Danbury; and from the former to Fish Kill, will be much frequented by the Carriags of the Army, while it is, or any part of it, on the east Side of the River; I sumbit it to your consideration, whether Parties Should not be Sent on those roads, before the winter Setts in; the Small loose Stones are very distructive to our Carriages and Horses.
I have the pleasure to inform you, the Troops are very healthy, and no important Complaints against them; not a Single pannel of Fence has been destroyed, Since we marchd, I take the Liberty to inclose the Proceedings of a Brigade Court Martial, as I have doubts, whether I am authorized, to confirm them? The Prisoner under Sentence of death, Sent here to be executed, made his escape, I fear by the Colution, or Conivance of the Guard, or Some part of it; notwithstandg I gave the most positive written orders to the officer, to take the utmost care of him. The Centeries have been tried, by a General Court Martial of the Division; but the proceedings have not been brought in; when they are, I shall transmit them.
I have Spared the Forage on, and near the Road, while I have been here, for obvious reasons; and consumed, that from a distance in the Vicinity. This being now near expended, as well as vegatables and other Comfortable necessaries for the Troops, I have determined, to move Six, or seven miles towards woodbury, for the greater conveninency of those articles; if I receive no orders to the Contrary. It is with extreame reluctance I ask leave of absence, from the Army, having always considered it as my home, since I had Connection with it; and indeed now, have no other. But as Mrs Macdougall has been very ill at Hartford; and is yet not intirely recove[re]d; if the Division is ordered, westward, to Winter Quarters, I shall then wish for leave for Six days; after it is put in motion. Before it is three days on its ground I shall join it. But if there should be the least difficulty on your mind, against it, I will not ask it; For as long as I am in the Service; I dont wish it to suffer, by my private concerns, while I am able to do my duty. I have the Honor [to] be with great truth and regard, Your Exellency’s most Humble Servant

  Alexr McDougall


Title: To George Washington from John Mitchell, 3 November 1778
From: Mitchell, John
To: Washington, George

    Dear Sir
    Philada 3d November 1778

I have the honor of your Excellency favor of the 26th past. have inform’d Mrs Montgomery that you wou’d not want her Carriage it has been no loss to her waiting your Answer. am extreamly sorry the large Bowl was broke, if I can procure an Other will send it as carefully as possible, Shou’d the Trunks prove too large when you see them will indavour to procure smaller. have sent four Table Cloths last Week, & by the bearer have sent three more, and a Bear Skin to Cover Your Excellencys Led Horse Saddle & furniture it is large & the best I cou’d procure, I request the favor of your Excellencys Acceptance of it, wch will do me honor.
I hope when Mrs Washington comes to this City she will honor Mrs Mitchell with her Company. it will be no inconvenience let her stay be long or short, the longer the more agreeable & the greater pleasure it will give us—if any thing is wanting from this to compleat the Carriage it will give me pleasure to procure it & forward it to Virginia.
I have enclosed the three last papers, this day there is an Accot of St Vincents being taken by the French. the report seems to be so well founded as to gain General belief, most Gentlemen here think the Enemy mean to Evacuate New York this fall but as we are Situated we can depend on Nothing certain but what comes from you. I have the honor to be with great respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & most hume Servt

  Jno. Mitchell

there is four more larger Table Cloths to go to your Excellency this Week.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Enoch Poor, 3 November 1778
From: Poor, Enoch
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Hartford [Conn.] 3rd Novr 1778

Inclosed I send the Proceedings of a Brigade General Court Martial for your approbation.
General Gates set out from this place for Boston yesterday and carried with him Docter Brown the only Hospital Surgeon we had here. I beg that he may be order’d back, (as I think he cannot be wanted there) Or some other one may be Orderd here to take care of and provide for the Sick of this Division, as we have no One impower’d to provoide the Necessaries for them in this place. I am Your Excellencys Most Obedient and very Humbe Sevt

  Enoch Poor


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 3 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

    Dear Sir
    Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 3d Novembr 1778

I have your favr of the 31st Ulto inclosing Major Talbots Account of the capture of the schooner Pigott. It was really a well concerted plan and gallantly executed. Be pleased to present my approbation and thanks to the Major—his Officers and Men.
The enemy’s fleet consisting of 150 sail of transports lay at the Hook the 31st ulto. It is the general opinion that the evacuation of New York will be total; but I cannot say I have sufficient evidence to convince me that it will be so.
I sent a letter for the Marquis de la Fayette to your care about the beginning of October. Be pleased to say whether it reached your hands, and whether it was delivered to the Marquis before he left Boston or Providence. I am with Regard Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

  Go: Washington

P.S. I have just heard that nine ships and a Brig left the Hook a day or two ago, said by a deserter to be bound to Rhode Island.


Title: General Orders, 4 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

    Head-Quarters Frederick’s burgh [N.Y.] Wednesday Novr 4th 1778.
    Parole Lorrain—C. Signs Lancaster. Lebanon.

A General Court-Martial of the Line whereof Lieutt Coll Williams is appointed President to sit tomorrow morning nine ôClock at Genl St Clair’s late quarters for the trial of all Persons brought before them.
Three Captains from the North Carolina Brigade, four from the 1st Pennsylvania and five from the second to attend as Members.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Charles Scott, 4 November 1778
From: Scott, Charles
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Near Bedford [N.Y.] Novr 4th 1778

Inclos’d Your Excellency will Receive an Account from Timothy Downing who Seems to be a very Intelligent person. You have it in his own hand writing also an Account from Capt. Walls who Came to my Quarters Last evening. I have an imperfect Acct from Colo. Gist that all the Sick wear embarked Last Thirsday. but as I cant learn it from any other Quarter I must Suppose the Colo. has been Misinformd.
as my indisposition leads me to wish that my Journey to Virginia could be mad[e] before the weather Sets in very Cold I should be extreamly happy if Your Excellency would be pleasd to order that I be relieved.
I will with pleasure Stay 8 or 10 Days or untill I can Make the Gentleman who relieves me Acquainted with the Several Channils through which intelligence is or may be had. I am Your Excellencys Obedient Servant

  Chs Scott


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 4 November 1778
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

    Dear General
    Providence [R.I.] Novemr 4th 1778

  I had the honor of your Excellencys favor of the 29th Instant Nothing new in the Enemys movements has taken place Since my Last. your Excellencey was pleased to Inclose me a Resolve of Congress respecting General Gates—I am at a Loss to know Either the Reason or the meaning of it. how far his Command will Interfere with mine his Conduct will Explain & point out the path I ought to pursue. in Every Step I take I Shall Earnestly wish for your Excellenceys approbation to follow my Conduct which whether in publick or private Life I Shall Esteem more than The Inconsiderate Disapprobation or unmeaning applause of millions. Colo. Jackson has this moment Informed me that the officers of Henlys Regiment are very uneasy about their Commissions They Say that Even if a New Arrangement is to take place they ought to have their former Commissions dated at the time of their first appointment. he further Says that he is Convinced that Unless they Receive their Commissions they will Resign to a man he at their Request applied to me & begs your Excellencey to gratify them by forwarding their Commissions as Soon as possible. as they are Stationed on the Western Shore I have not Seen them myself but have no Doubt I can keep them on terms till their Commissions arrive I Lament Exceedingly that the Encouragement given to officers is Such as Renders the Service Quite Indifferent to them I wish our money was of more value & the wisdom & virtue of our Councills more Conspicuous. I have the honor to be with the most Excelled

    & Lively Sentiments of Respect Duty & Esteem Dear Genl Yr Excys most obedt Servt

  Jno. Sullivan


Title: General Orders, 5 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

    Head-Quarters Frederick’s burgh [N.Y.] Thursday Novr 5th 78.
    Parole Broomsgrove—C. Signs Breed. Belfast.

The Pay-Masters of Regiments and Corps are to apply to the Pay-Master General immediately for the Months of August & September’s pay.
A Field Officer from the Maryland Line to relieve Lt Coll Ball who is superintending the Hospitals at and near Fish-Kills—Lieutt Coll Ball will furnish him with the Instructions.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Jacob Bayley, 5 November 1778
From: Bayley, Jacob
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Newbury [Vt.] 5th Novr 1778

  You will receive this by the Hands of my Son in Company with Capt. Frye Bayley who was one of the Flagg I mentioned to your Excellency that was detained in Canada with Two others by Genl Carleton, He left Quebec 11th August Past, and Hallifax in October and will give your Excellency an Account of what he knows relative to Canada &c. Three Frenchmen I sent to Saint Charles’s are returned, and brings the following Account that the British Forces in Canada does not exceed 5500 Including Refugees Tories & Canadians all they can Muster, that not more than 300 or 400 have Arrived this Year, that Head Quarters is at Sorrell where there is 400 Men and fortifyed with Sixty Peices of Cannon in Redoubts without Entrenchments their Pay Office at St Dennis, where there is 300 men, a small Party at ChamCalee, One Regt at Saint Johns One at the Isle Aux Noix, a small Party at Montreal Saint Francois, & Three Rivers, the Remainder at Quebec, the French very much Attatched to our Cause especially since they have heard of our Alliance with France, Plenty of Bread at 5/ Per Bushell, Meat not Scarce, they say they are ready not only to turn out, in our Service, but will if notice given them, of our Coming lay up all the Provisions in their Power ready for us, They inform that Genl Haldiman has Ordered 50 out of every Parish to be ready to assist

    him in Case of an Invasion and that they will turn out on his Order, and immediately Join Us, that the Priests say but little, the Indians about Canada, are all in our favour, the Western Indians are all gone Home not well Pleased—The Rout I proposed very Practicable in the whole they say we have nothing to fear—I have <thot> Expedition is Carried on this Winter to send to Canada that Flower may be provided in a Private Way which they say may be done, and have detained One Frenchmen for that purpose, untill I am further Advised by Your Excellency—I have sent out this day 50 of Colol Bedels Regt to Clear the Road which will if not hindered by the Snow, clear 40 or 50 Miles which may be done and greatly facilitate the Winter’s March but I am of the Opinion apart of the Army shod be sent by the Lake, and a little sooner to draw the Attention of the Enemy untill we take Possession of Sorrell where their greatest Magazines are, as there are not a Certainty as to meat in Canada I would propose that a number of Oxen are made ready at some Place, not more than 100 miles from this Place—We have Cattle here ready for Killing to fill 1000 Barrells and the Salt arrived, & arriving, Flower Beans so high a Price at Boston that People will not sell, except we give equal to the Price at Boston so that we shall fall short of Flower at least 500 Barrels, I have procured Forrage equal to what was proposed—I cannot think there is any great Hazard in attempting a Campaign into Canada this Winter—If Men are wanted for the Campaign or not, I wod wish Capt. Bayley with his Two Lieuts. might be employed in the Service (who were detained with him) Mister Tichener informs me I must recommend some Person for an Issuing Commissary and as I have and shall Employ Eprhraim Bayley in Said Service, untill I know your Excellencies Pleasure, I wod recommend him—Warm Cloathing ought to be had for all the Men for the Campaign, some may be had here, I send a Bill of Moose Skins &c., which I have Purchased—Shall be glad my Son might have an Order for such a Sum as your Excellency may think proper—I have no great Regard for the Indians in general but must in Justice say that the Friendship of the Canada Indians has been our Safety, their friendship has been kept at some Expence, and now they are much pleased at our Success, and numbers have already offered themselves ready to assist us and as they have been obliged to leave their Country or Fight against us, and Hunting not good they are almost naked, about Forty or Fifty will be here I shall follow your Excellencies Orders respecting them—The Accounts from the other Partys yet to come from Canada I shall send as soon as Possible. I am your Excellencies most Obedient Humble Servant.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Timothy Bedel, 5 November 1778
From: Bedel, Timothy
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Haverhill [N.H.] 5th Novr 1778

  The Bearer Capt. Frye Bayley, with his Two Lieuts. who were Ordered by the Honorable Major Genl Gates to go with a Flagg to Saint John’s with Lieut. Singleton of the Eight Regt British, and was detained, are now Returned Capt. Bayley will be able to Inform Your Excellency of every particular relative to their Confinement and the Enemies motions, shall be glad your Excellency will give Orders for him and his Two Lieuts. to receive their Pay from the Time of the Enclosed Orders from Genl Gates—On the 16th of March last I received Orders from the Honorable the Marquiss De La Fayette to raise a Regt—a Copy of said Orders I Transmitted to your Excellency by Genl Bayley, The Comittees in this Quarter met and Voted Six hundred Men shod be raised, they have constantly been kept out as Scouts, and part are now gone to Cut the Road they were raised untill the first of April next, and have never reced any Money Cloathing &c. shall be glad Your Excellency wod give further Orders regarding the same—There is a number of Indians about here who have had some Trifling Presents from the Commissioners, and as they hear of the Expidition to Canada are desireous to go we have here about Forty sometimes Fifty, and at their request I write to your Excellency—Joseph Louis the Chief of Saint Francois Tribe is gone to Lake Amprobagog and is daily expected back, he Informed the Saint Francois

    Tribe were all willing to Join the United States—We have Constantly News from Canada, all favourable, a small reinforcement arrived, Provisions very Cheap and Plenty Shall be glad of your Excellencies further Orders by the Bearer. I am Your Excellencies most Obedient Humble Servant

  Timo. Bedel


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Theodorick Bland, 5 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Bland, Theodorick

    Dear Sir
    Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 5th Novemr 1778

  Congress having determined to remove the Troops of the Convention from the neighbourhood of Boston to Charlotteville in Albemarle

    County Virginia, an Officer of Rank and prudence will be necessary to regulate and conduct their march. I must desire you to undertake this duty. The first division of the troops was to have marched off as yesterday, and will be followed by four others, at proper intervals. I would wish you to lose no time in coming up here, as the sooner you set out to meet them the better. I intend your Regiment shall go immediately into Winter Quarters, I have not determined upon the place but it will be either in Frederick Town Maryland or Winchester in Virginia. You will therefore put them upon their march, with their Baggage by the most direct Route to Frederick Town. When the Regiment has arrived at the place of Cantonment, I have no objection to granting Furloughs for the Winter to those men whose times of service are near expiring and who will re inlist upon such terms. I am told Major Jameson would have particular influence in re-engaging the Men, otherwise I should imagine he would be able to give you very great assistance in conducting the march of the troops. If you think Lt Colo. Temple would answer the purpose as well as the Major, he may proceed with the Regt and the Major come up with you. otherwise he may go on. Be pleased to bring up a subaltern Offi[c]er with you, who may follow the Regiment with particular orders for the place of Cantonment &ca. Should any of the Men of Colo. Baylors Regt be upon the lines, you are to march them with your Regiment untill you cross the North River and then direct them to repair to Bristol in Pennsylvania where the Regt is assembled.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 5 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

    Dear Sir
    Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 5 Novemr 1778

I last evening recd the inclosed letter and depositions from Congress, from which it appears that the inhabitants of Minisink are under apprehensions of another visit from the enemy. Under present appearances I think Colo. Cortlands Regiment may as well move over towards Delaware and take such a position as will best answer the purpose of protecting the settlements. Upon delivery of the inclosed to him, he will march as quick as possible to such place as you shall direct—Be pleased to return the papers after you have made the proper use of them. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 5 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

    Dear Sir
    Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 5th Novemr 1778

I shall be exceedingly obliged to you for information, either from your own knowledge or that of others, whether there is a possibility of marching a Body of troops from the head of Susquehannah across the Country to Niagara. Among many other Routes pointed out for carrying the War into the Indian Country, when circumstances will permit, the above has been mentioned as one. The distance appears upon the Map, to be shorter than almost by any other way, but I have my doubts of the practicability of the march, never having heard of any road or passage leading to the lakes through that quarter, I mean for a body of Men with necessary Baggage and Stores. I shall be glad of your answer upon the above as soon as possible, as I want to form an opinion from a comparative view of the most accurate accounts—The particular advantages to be derived from the above mentioned Route would consist in the opportunity of destroying several Indian settlements in the way, and of avoiding Lake Ontario upon which the Enemy have a naval force.


Title: From George Washington to Vice Admiral d’Estaing, 5 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Estaing, Charles-Hector Théodat, comte d’

    Sir,
    Hd Qrs Frederiksburgh [N.Y.] Novr 5th 1778

I have the honor to transmit your Excellency an Extract of a letter from Major General Lord Stirling of the 3d by which you will perceive, that a fleet of One hundread and eight sail, left Sandy Hook the morning of that day. This probably contains a division of the troops, the departure of which we have so long expected.
The Marquis De La Fayette arrived three days since at Fish Kill two and twenty miles from this place; where I am unhappy to inform Yr Excellency he is detained by a fever which seized him soon after he set out from Philadelphia. I hope our anxiety on this account may not be of long duration.

  The inclosed letter from our Commissary of Prisonners is just come to hand. With the utmost esteem and most devoted attachment I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedt serv.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Ebenezer Gray, 5 November 1778
From: Gray, Ebenezer
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Norwalk [Conn.] Novr 5th 1778

  last Night Leeutt Smith and Two other Officers returned from Long Iland by whom I have received the following Intellegence—they recd their Information from a Person who left N. York monday Evening. he

    says that the Enemy are still Imbarking—the Ferry stairs were much crouded with Soldiers; that a Considerable Numbr of Waggons are shipped—the Prices of Murchandize especially of West India Goods is raised more than 100 ⅌ Cent occassioned by the Army’s seizing most of the Rum Sugar & molasses that was in Town for their use, the Brittish Fleet are still lying at the Narrows and Watering Place, in the County of Suffolk on Long Iland Wheat is lately raised to 4 Dollars ⅌ Bushl & in Kings & Queens Countys to 5 Dollars; the Winds of late have been so high & the Sea so boisterous that the whale Boats have not been able pass only this Once, in which the Boats almost filled with Water. from Your Excelly most Obedt & Humbe Servt

  Ebenezer Gray


Title: To George Washington from Colonel William Malcom, 5 November 1778
From: Malcom, William
To: Washington, George

    sir
    Fort Clinton [N.Y.] Novr 5 1778

Painter was not consider’d by us as a feild Officer—We However Submitt to your Excellencys Pleasure and he will be Tryd at Fish Kill landg to Morrow.
Expecting the Operation of the Arrangement of the Army—and also the event of an application to Col. Pickering for Cloth of a Particular Colour &c.—I have delayed Solliciting for Cloathing to my Regiment—altho’ they want it very much—I now give up my hopes from the Board of War, and with respect to the Operation of the arrangement, Your Excellency knows best what we ought to do.
With respect to the Chain & boom. I have caused the Engineer [to] View them and he agrees with me that in a Short time both ought to [be] taken on Shore lest the Ice carry them away. Does your Excellency choose to have it done er’e the Winter Setts in Severe? Colo. Park writes me that I am to “r[e]turn him resign’d from the date of his letter” (the 29th Ulto[)].
The matter reccomdd by Your Excellency is put in the hands of a person who I hope will give a proper Account in a few days. I most respectfully am Your Excellencys very Hble servant

  W. Malcom

    Since writing the above I have information there are only 50 soldiers at Powlis Hook and that the Enemy will certainly leave York in a few

      days—I have a Whale boat just come from Hoe-buck—and returns to morrow.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Charles Scott, 5 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Charles

    Dear sir.
    Head Quarters [Fredericksburg, N.Y.]5th Novr 1778.

  I have yours of yesterdays date, with its several inclosures to acknowlege; and those of the 2d Inst. and the 31st Ulto.
It is not my desire to detain you longer than the time necessary for making the proper communications to the officer who is next in command, and who will succeed you till I may find it proper to make another arrangement. You will therefore open to him the train of obtaining intelligence—the persons you have employed—and every circumstance which you think may lead him to conduct this particular duty with the utmost secrecy, latitude, and precision. I could wish however that you may have yourself the satisfaction of completing the present command in the possession of New-york.
I have ordered Colonel Blands Regiment to take another situation, and instructed the Colonel on this subject. I am Sir your most humble servt.

P.s. You will please forward the letters For New York immediately by flag.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 5 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

    Dear Sir
    Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 5th Novemr 1778

I have just recd advice from Lord Stirling that a fleet of 108 sail left the Hook on the morning of the 3d. There were five or six two Deckers among them. I have not yet learned whether any more were preparing to follow, but as there are persons in New York and upon Staten Island, I expect to be speedily informed of any further movements of the Enemy. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt.

P.S. Inclosed you have a Manifestoe lately published by Congress.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Philip Van Cortlandt, 5 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Van Cortlandt, Philip

    Dear Sir
    Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 5th Novemr 1778

I have recd advices from Minisink which indicate an apprehension of another visit from the Indians. I have therefore desired Govr Clinton to consider of and fix upon such a position for your Regt as will best cover and secure the settlements in case of an attack. When this matter is determined upon, you will march as expeditiously as possible to the place appointed, and upon your arrival take such measures for your own security and the safety of the Country as shall seem most proper to answer both purposes. I wish you success and am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major William Washington, 5 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, William

    Dear Sir
    Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 5h Novemr 1778

Should you in consequence of your application to the Board of War and Committee of Arrangement be appointed to Colo. Baylors Regiment, you will immediately thereupon proceed to Bristol where the Regiment is assembled and take the command of it. I shall send orders to the Officer commanding at present to march the Regiment into Winter Quarters. You will therefore, if you join, call upon him for them, and follow the directions laid down for him. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 6 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

    Sir
    Head Quarters Fredericksbg [N.Y.] 6th Novemr 1778.

  I am led to beleive by a letter from Major Genl Phillips, that he may not, in consequence of the late Resolve of Congress, have recd orders to remove to Virginia with the Convention Troops. He had been for some time past, for particular reasons, confined to the limits of his House and Garden by Genl Heath, who informs me that he recd the

    approbation of Congress for so doing, and upon requesting the opinion of the president how long he should continue these restrictions, he recd the following answer on the 13th Sept. “I apprehend Congress conclude that you will continue in force your order respecting Maj: Genl Phillips untill he shall have made such concessions as shall be satisfactory to your own honor as commanding Officer of a department in the service of the United States.”
By a letter from Genl Heath himself, he seems to doubt the propriety of Genl Phillips’s removal untill the terms mentioned in the presidents opinion have been complied with: But as the Resolve for the march of the troops is general and subsequent to the opinion above cited, I think it may be inferred that Genl Phillips is included, and that if he should not have left Cambridge, that he be permitted and directed to follow the Troops. I am Sir Your most obt Servt

  Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 6 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

    Dear Sir,
    Head Quarters Fredericksburg [N.Y.]6th Novemr 1778

I have your favor of the 30th ulto by Captain Master, who waits in this Neighbourhood until he can hear from New York, having written to Sir Henry Clinton in order to effect his exchange. a Resolve of Congress lately passed put it out of my power to indulge his wish of going in himself.
From part of Genl Phillips’s letter I am led to believe, that he had not received orders from you to prepare for his journey to Virginia, and from your own, you seem to doubt of the propriety of his removal, until the terms mentioned in the opinion of the President of Congress shall be complied with. The late resolve for the removal of the Convention Troops being general, and subsequent to the opinion of the President, I think includes Genl Phillips, and justifies a change of his present situation.
I have mentioned this matter to Genl Gates, upon whom the Command at Boston has by this time devolved, that if Genl Phillips should have remained behind, he may be directed to follow the Troops.

  I thank you for your caution in concealing the route from the Officers of the Convention, although in the present situation of the Enemy’s affairs, I do not think any danger is to be apprehended. I am Dr Sir Your Mo. Obet hum. Servt

  Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jean Holker, 6 November 1778
From: Holker, Jean
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Boston the 6th November 1778./.

I have the honor of returning your Excellency’s last letter to Count d’Estaing: I should have been glad to have open’d it & to have forwarded a vessel if necessary on purpose; But I had not positive orders on the Subject, & would not take it upon myself, though I have seen all your late correspondence with him.
I have the pleasure of forwarding to you some Coppys of the Count’s proclamation, which I dare say you’ll peruse with some satisfaction.
Permit me to entreat your Excellency to forward the Letters for our Minister Plénipotentiary with the utmost diligence.
The Count sail’d with his whole squadron in perfect health & good order on the fourth Currant at about 10 oclock from Nantasket road: the Pilots are returned & left all well.
we have Just learned that the somerset a British 64, is wreck’d on the south side of Cape Cod, by the late storm; the Crew is landed excepting about 40, who are Supposed to be drown’d: they are marching to this City in three divisions. four more ships were seen in the utmost distress: It appears that admiral Byron with 16, ship’s of the line, has been Cruizing off George’s Bank to Intercept his most Christian majestys squadron, & that his fleet is now dispersed: It is not unlikely that at least some Stragglers will fall in with the Count’s squadron.
  I am charged By him to negotiate some important information with your Excellency, of which I Believe the Marquis of LaFayette & Mr Hamilton have had some hints: I shall therefore have the honor

    of waiting on your excellency on my return to Philadelphia, which is only Retarded By the distress of 200, sick Prisoners lately arrived from New york, partly here & partly at Norwich.
I shall be proud & happy to have such an opportunity of paying you my Respects, & of Gratifying the desire I had entertained in Europe of being personaly acquainted with a Général of your distinguish’d merit, & of whom I have allways been taught & in particular By Messrs Franklin & Deane to entertain the most élevated Ideas.
In the mean while I have the honor of subscribing myself, most Respectfully, Your Excellency’s, Most obedient, humble servant
  Holker./.agent gnal of the Royal Marine& Consul of France./.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 6 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

    Sir,
    Head Quarters [Fredericksburg, N.Y.] Novemr 6th 1778

On Wednesday Evening I received your Excellency’s favors of the 30th ulto & 1st Inst. with their several inclosures.
I will direct the best & cheapest disposition, I can, to be made of the cavalry for their accommodation in Quarters—and will instruct the Forage Master on the occasion.
The remittance to the Pay Master which you mention, I presume has come to hand, having been applied to by him, to issue an order for the payment of the Troops for August and September.

  I have transmitted the letter from nicholas Dupui & others, with the affidavits to His Excellency Govr Clinton—& have ordered Colonel Cortland to march with his regiment towards the Minisinks—and to take such Post as the Govr may point out.
I have made a distribution of the Printed Manifestoes—and there is no doubt, but the Enemy will very soon be possessed of some of the copies—and of news Papers that contain them.
By a letter from Lord Stirling of the 3d Inst. he informed me, “That the Fleet at the Hook the preceding day—increased to 108 Sail—and that morning at seven weighed Anchor & stood out to Sea[”]—I am impatiently waiting for further advices from New York and to learn whether any other, & what movements are likely to take place. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect and esteem Yr Excellency’s Most Obet servant

  Go: Washington


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

    Sir
    [Philadelphia] 6th November [1778]

Since my last Letter under the 1st Instant I have had the honor of presenting to Congress Your Excellencies favors of the 29th and 31st Ulto together with the Papers which accompanied each the former is committed—Doctor Connelly’s case has been long submitted to a Committee and I am told a Report will be made very soon. I sent your Excellency’s Letter to him in Goal.
Inclosed with this Your Excellency will receive Copy of a Letter from the State of New Jersey without date, but it came to hand the 1st Instant. Congress desire you Sir, to consider the subject matter of that Letter and to take such Measures thereon as to you shall appear necessary.
I have by Order of Congress Commissioned Major Diricks by Brevet to rank Lieutenant Colonel. Captain Capitaine du Chesnoy to rank Major by Brevet. Both these Gentlemen are going to Europe immediately. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Phillips, 6 November 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Phillips, William

    Sir
    Hd Qrs [Fredericksburg, N.Y.] 6th Novr 1778

I was favoured with your letter of the 29th Ulto by Captn Masters.
The several packets which he had in charge have been sent into New York, but from recent and particular resolves of congress I could not comply with your intention respecting Captn Masters’ interview with General Clinton—He has however made his application in writing for an exchange, and waits in this neighbourhood for his Excellencys answer.
Your cares for the troops of convention on their present march, are such as discover the attentive commander; while your expressions of politeness claim my personal respect. I shall endeavour during the continuance of their march to confine its inconveniences to such as are unavoidable, or that cannot be obviated by any arrangement of ours at this season of the year.
For this purpose I have appointed an officer of rank to attend the march and commissaries and quarter masters to meet the troops, with such other dispositions as appear necessary on the occasion.
I make no doubt but your officers will accommodate their minds to the change and conform the discipline of their soldiers to the prevention of disputes, either with their conductors, or the countries thro’ which they may travel.
The resolution of Congress directing the removal of the Convention troops to Charlottesville, includes in my opinion its officers under every description—And in this sentiment I have written to Major General Gates who now commands at Boston.
It is natural—the desire you express for a sight of your friends—for the settlement of private affairs—and a moment of free communication with those at a distance. but Sir the proposition which you have been pleased to prefer to me on this subject must come directly and in the first instance before congress. I have the honor to be Sir, with all due respect, Your most hble servt

  G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Casimir Pulaski, 6 November 1778
From: Pulaski, Casimir
To: Washington, George

    Sir
    Sussex-Court-house [N.J.] Nov: 6th 1778.

I have the honour to send you my Passports by Mr Gerard. I did wish to do it my self; but the Indisposition in wich I am since several Days hinders me.
I am here without forrage, if that is to last long, the horses will suffre great deal.
I shoul’d wish before my departure for Europe to be to some Service; If it will please you my General you may furnish me with the Occasion. I expect here your Ordres. I am with great Respect his Excellency your most obedient Servant

  C. Pulaski