Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 10 April 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Elk April the 10th 1781

                        Agreably to Your Excellency’s permission Major Troop Has My Leave to Return to the Army. The Commanding
                            officers Have Represented that He was under Indispensable Necessity to go, and we can very well do without Him untill the
                            aArrival of an other Major.
                        Colonel Vose is, I am told, Very Desirous to Return to the Army. He has there a Regiment, and Before we join
                            general greene our Bataïllons will be very small. But other Business Recall Him, and I Beg leave to Represent to Your
                            Excellency that Col Smith would be Very Well Calculated for such A Command.
                        When Appointed to the Adjutant generalcy of this Small Corps, Col Smith Had the Hope that we would either
                            operate Against Arnold, or be a Van guard to Your Army as they Had been Last year. But the Corps Being thrown into the
                            Line of the Southern Army Col Smith would act as an Inspector Under Officers who are inferior to Him in Rank of
                            Commission. He is for the present Unwell at this place where your letter would find Him, and untill I Receive Your Answer
                            I will differ Hearing the Reasons of Col Vose. With the Highest and Most affectionate Respect I have the Honor to be Your
                            Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

                            Lafayette

                            By a gentleman just from Philadelphia I am assured that the Pennsylvania line is Ready to March to the
                                southward, and that Congress Have Received to the official intelligence of an Embarcation having taken place at
                                Newyork destined to New Castle. In that case we would Be upon the spot. But Unless I receive Contrary orders from you,
                                or I see the ennemy in the River I will not delay the Execution of your orders.


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 10 April 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Elk April the 10th 1781

                        By My Letter of the 8th Your Excellency will Have known of My Arrival at this Place and the Preparations I
                            was Making to Proceed South ward. I took at the Same time the Liberty to Inform You that the Great want of Monney,
                            Baggage, Cloathing, Under Which Both officers and Men are Suffering and the Hope they Had of Being furnished with a Part
                            of these Articles from their States would Render it Very Inconvenient for the troops to Proceed Immediately By Land. They
                            Begin to Be Sensible of the Reason which detains them Here, and are Uneasy about it As they Are so Unprovided for the
                            Journey. I Have However Hurried on Preparations and will Be able to Set off to Morrow Morning. The Circumstance of My
                            Being Ready Sooner than I Expected, and a Letter from the Governor of Maryland informing that Six Ships whom I take to Be
                            plundering vessels were Coming Up the Potowmack Induce me Not to waït for Your Excellency’s Answer—Not that I pretend to
                            defend the towns of Alexandria Baltimore and Annapolis at a time, or to Stop the depredations of the Ennemy’s Parties in A
                            Country where their Naval Superiority Renders it Impossible, But Because I don’t think Any Consideration Must delay the
                            Execution of Superior orders, And Because if this Corps was Not Sent South ward they would with Alacrity March Back thirty
                            or forty Miles More to Rejoin the Grand Army.
                        Having Received No Particulars of Your Excellency’s Journey to Rhode island But By the News paper, a Letter
                            from You to Mr Lund Washington and Some private Letters of Some friends, I Cannot know What Change Has taken place in Your
                            Plans, and Am not able to Account for the Inactivity which You foresee for the Grand Army—Letters from Ministers, Letters
                            from My friends, Intelligences from other Quarters Every thing was Combined to flatter me with the Hope that our Grand and
                            desicive object would Be in Contemplasion. I Then was not displeased with the dispositions of the Ennemy that weakened
                            that place—it is Probable Your Excellency’s plans Have Changed and You Intend to Prosecute the war to the South ward.
                        I Had Yesterday the Pleasure of dining in Board the Hermione and Left Her Under Sails to go to Rhode island
                            where She will Probably Be the day after to Morrow—Mr de La touche Treville Uncle to Captain La Touche will, it is Said,
                            Command the Squadron of the Second division—I was Conversing with His Nephew on whom He Has An Entire Confidence on the
                            Expedition Against Newyork and He assured me that His Uncle’s plan would Certainly Be to Take Possession of the Harbour,
                            And send a force up North River—Which you know is Entirely the thing that You wanted Mr de Ternay to do.
                        Monsieur de La Touche Having Confidentially told me that He Had a Great influence over Monsieur Destouches, I
                            observed to Him How important it was for the Common Cause that the french fleet Might Have the Greatest Possible Activity—We were also Conversing of the difficulties we Laboured Under for transportation, and He told me that the Next day After
                            His Arrival at Rhode island, Unless Such obstacles Occurred as He Could Not foresee, Monsieur Destouches would Make You an
                            offer of the Ship L’eveïllé and the four frigats to Carry twelve Hundred men to Any Part of the Continent you Might think
                            Proper—Those Ships Are too Strong to Be Affraïd of frigats, and too fast Sailors to Be in the Least Concerned By the fear
                            of a Squadron—Thinking that (particularly as Lord Cornwallis Has Retreated) our March would take us forty days where
                            desertion and Sickness Occasioned By want of Shoes and Every other Necessary as well as By Heat of the sun would Much
                            Reduce our Numbers, and that these Ships with the Addition of the two frigats at Philadelphia Armed En flute would in
                            Sailing only the 4th or 5th of May Carry 1500 men to Willmington George Town or Any place in the Rear of Lord Cornwallis
                            or the Neighbourood of General Greene I thought it My Duty to Encourage this Idea which would Bring us to the Point of
                            Operations Sooner than we Could Arrive By Land—It Would Also Give You the time of forming at Morristown or Trenton A
                            detachement well provided Agreably to the Project you Had in Contemplation after the Return of this Corps when the
                            Appointement of officers Could Be Made without affecting the Delicacy of the Regimental officers Nor the Honor of those
                            Already Emploïed—While we would Be operating Mr Destouches might keep cruizers off Charleston.
                        These Ideas, My dear General, Are only thrown out in Consequence of the freedom Which You Have often Ordered
                            Me to Take—What Mr Destouches May do is Uncertain, and I did not think Myself Authorised to Express to Him the Least wish
                            on that Head. it was My duty to Relate our difficulties to you and the chances I foresaw to See them Relieved in Some
                            Measure But unless the Bad weather of which there is now a prospect Makes it Impossible, I will Be to morrow At the Ferry
                            At the Susquehana.
                        You May Have known from Mr de La Luzerne that Two Millions and a Half Had Been given to Mr Franklin and that
                            Marquis de Castries and Count de Vergennes were trying to obtain a Sum More Adequate to our wants—that However the
                            Minister of France Has Requested me Not to Mention as it was as Yet an Uncertainty, and would Perhaps Give ill grounded
                            Hopes destructive of the internal efforts we ought to Make—I am told that just Before the Departure of Mr de La Peyrouse
                            Some dispatches were sent to Brest, But do Not think they Contain Any thing Relating to Our Operations as Marquis de
                            Castries writes me that the determination of the Council upon our Letters will Be sent By the Ship who is to Convoy the
                            Expected Vessels.
                        I am Very Sorry I Have Not Seen the Aid de Camp who Had a verbal Message from General Greene—Inclosed I send
                            to Your Excellency the Letters I Have Received on the Occasion—Perhaps did He Mean to propose an Expedition towards Cape
                            Fear or George town which Might Be made with the Light Squadron above Mentionned—An additional Circumstance is that the
                            Eveïllé will not Be Commanded By Mr de Lombard Captain La Touche’s uncle who is Entirely Under that Gentleman’s influence.
                        I write to the Board of war for to get Some Shoes and other Parts of Cloathing.— will this Morning Speack to
                            the Commanding officers of Bataïllons on our intended Journey—But Have not Yet said any thing to Clel Gimat and Major
                            Galvan Because it is possible that New circumstances may Engage You to change Your dispositions. Going By water, if
                            possible would level most all difficulties—But if I don’t Hear from you I will alwais proceed on. Requesting Your
                            Excellency to Present My Best Respects to Mrs Washington and Compliments to the family I Have the Honor to Be with the
                            Highest Respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient and affectionate Servant

                            Lafayette


Title: From Tench Tilghman to Richard Platt, 10 April 1781
From: Tilghman, Tench
To: Platt, Richard

                            Dear Major
                            Head Quarters 10th April 1781.

                        Our Allies cost us a great deal in Horse Flesh—But it cannot be avoided—Count St Maime applies this morning
                            for a Horse, in the room of one which he has worn down. His Excellency desires one may be furnished at Newburg if
                            possible, for I believe the fact is, that the tired Horse is unable to proceed a foot farther. I am Yr
                            most obt & hble Servt

                            Tench Tilghman
                            A.D.C.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 10 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarter New Windsor April 10th 1781

                        By an almost total failure of the Supplies of Beef Cattle, demanded by Congress of the Eastern States; I find
                            we are again reduced to the verge of Distress, (Our little Magazines, which were laid up for an emergency being entirely
                            exhausted) and that there is no prospect of immediate relief, but from the salted provisions of Connecticut.
                        I have therefore to request in the most earnest manner, that Your Excellency will interpose Your influence
                            and authority to aid the Quarter Master in forwarding these Provisions, and that a sufficient number of Teams may be
                            procured in the several Towns westward of Connecticut River, to take up at once the whole of the salted Meat in those
                            Towns, and transport it directly to Fishkill, or the nearest landing on the North River where it can safely be deposited:
                            Or that some other speedy and effectual means may be devised for the transportation. Mr Pomeroy the Dep. Quartr Mastr of
                            your State having informed Mr Stevens the Acting Commissy with the Army, that there were some embarrassments which
                            prevented the forwarding these Provisions; I have already written to the former, expressing my idea of his misapprehension
                            of this Matter, & directing him (if there still remained any difficulties) to make application to your Excellency
                            for their removal.
                        Convinced that nothing but an immediate Supply thro this channel, can avert the most imminent and fatal
                            Misfortunes, I have been thus explicit and pointed in my representation; and cannot but flatter myself, that, on such an
                            occasion, the substantial Farmers will furnish their Teams with great alacrity, upon your requisition: especially as the
                            roads are now good, and as the whole business may be performed, without interfering much with the planting season. I have
                            the honor to be With great respect & esteem Your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Elias Dayton, 11 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters N. Windsor 11th April 1781

                        I have recd yours of the 10th: I prefer permitting an escape to giving up—because doing the last would imply
                            that we think we have no right to seize upon a deserter in all cases whatever and wherever we can find him, a point which
                            I would always insist upon, more especially as it may one day be brought in question where a Gentleman of high rank, who
                            formerly belonged to us, may be the object.
                        How far the person alluded to may be depended upon or how used, I leave it with you to determine—The material
                            informations will be—previous notice of any movements—and an exact account from time to time of the numbers and positions
                            of the enemy—and of the strength and destinations of detachments when any are made, specifying the Corps if possible—I
                            think it must be an easy matter to ascertain the Corps now remaining in and about New York—noting their stations—This I
                            would wish done as soon as possible. As to fixing any certain reward I cannot do it. It ought always to depend upon the
                            importance of the service performed or intelligence communicated, and in that proportion I am willing to promise
                            compensation.
                        Be pleased to make enquiry whether there is any talk or appearance of another embarkation, and if there
                            should be, what is said to be the destination.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 11 April 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            West point April 11. 1781.

                        Since yesterday morning I have obtained a New York paper of the 4. inst. which I have the honor to enclose to
                            your Excellency.
                        Yesterday we began laying the chain across the river—it was fastened on one side but night came on before we
                            could secure the other end—It will be effected to day if the wind is not too fresh.
                        The small pox patients are in a pretty good way, but want exceedingly some hospital stores, such as sugar or
                            molasses, and indian meal—This Colo. Scammell represented to me yesterday in a most pressing manner. If I am not mistaken,
                            a considerable quantity of hospital stores were removed from Danbury about the time your Excellency returned from the
                            eastward—I wish as many of them (if others cannot be obtained) as can possibly be spared may be ordered for the relief of
                            inoculated patients—Nothing new from below. I have the honor to be With the highest regard Your Excellency’s Most obedient
                            servant

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 11 April 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Elk April 11th 1781

                        This Letter will be delivered to Your Excellency by Capt. Rochefontaine who is joining the grand Army and
                            will leave this Corps with the few Sapers and Miners we had taken from West Point—I dont apprehend they may be useful to
                            us, and it would have been very inconvenient for them to be seperated from their Corps where they are to receive every
                            kind of supply. with the highest respect—I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedt Hum. Servt

                            Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from John Laurens, 11 April 1781
From: Laurens, John
To: Washington, George

                            My dear General
                            Passy near paris 11th April 1781.

                        Not to trouble Your Excellency with a detail of writings, conferences, attendances and importunities, I pass
                            at once to the result as communicated to me by the Count de Vergennes—It is His most Christian Majestys determination, to
                            guarantee a loan of ten millions of livres to be opened in Holland in favour of the United States—in addition to the
                            gratuitous gift of six millions granted before my arrival—and four millions appropriated for the payment of bills of
                            exchange drawn by Congress—The Value of Clothing, Ordnance, and military stores, of which articles I have delivered an
                            estimate reduced in proportion to the quantities already obtained and forwarded by Doctor Franklin—is to be deducted from
                            the six millions.
                        The distance of the manufactoring towns from the sea, renders it impossible to procure the woolen cloths at a
                            short notice—the marine department which the Marquis de la fayette imagined from the similarity of Uniforms might be able
                            to give us some assistance, has no reserve stores of this kind—the different Regiments in the land service provide their
                            own Clothing—so that there will be unavoidable difficulties and delays in procuring the quantity demanded.
                        I am using my utmost efforts to prevail upon the Ministers, to advance the ten millions from the treasury of
                            France, and avail themselves of the proposed loan in Holland for replacing the sum—this arrangement it appears to me can
                            be attended with no possible inconvenience to the finances of France, and I need not add to Your Excellency how invaluable
                            this gain of time will be to America—I shall likewise endeavour to negotiate the Ordnance and other military effects, that
                            may be supplied from the Kings Arsenal on credit, to economise as much as possible of the six millions. The Marquis de
                            Castries has promised to make immediate arrangements for forwarding the supplies—and has renewed his assurances that a
                            naval Superiority will exist on the American Coast, the ensuing Campaign—but there are not those
                            dispositions made for maintaining it that the success of the common cause demands—and I am sorry to
                            inform Your Excellency that the Ministry do not seem to approve of the siege of New York as an operation for the ensuing
                            Campaign—What may be the effect of farther and more particular conferences on the subject I cannot determine.
                        Inclosed Your Excellency will receive Extracts of Letters intercepted in a packet bound from Falmouth to New
                            York—they were communicated to me by the Marquis de Castries, but do not appear to have made that impression on him and
                            the rest of the ministry, which was reasonably to be expected.
                        It mortifies me much not to be able to announce to your Excellency the day of my departure from this Country.
                            it is impossible to express the impatience which I feel to return to my military function—and to have opportunities of
                            proving to Your Excellency that I am unalterably with the profoundest veneration and most tender attachment Your
                            Excellency’s faithful Aid

                            John Laurens.

                            I must trouble Your Excellency to present my Respects to Mrs Washington—my love to the Marquis de la
                                fayette Col. Hamilton and the rest of the family.


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 11 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor April 11. 1781

                        You will take the earliest, and most efficacious Measures for the transportation of all the salted Provisions
                            collected in the Towns westward of Connecticut River, to the Army. To facilitate this, I have written the enclosed Letter
                            to His Excellency Govr Trumbull, requesting his influence, and assistance—which you will be pleased to forward, with the
                            Dispatches for the Count De Rochambeau by the Chain of Expresses—I must request, that you will pay the most pointed
                            attention to the execution of this business of transportation; as not only the safety of our important Posts on this
                            River, but the very existance of the Army, depends almost entirely, on the punctuality with which this Order is executed.
                            I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Ralph Pomeroy, 11 April 1781
From: Pomeroy, Ralph
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Hartford 11th April 1781.

                        I was favoured with your Excellencys Letter of the 7th Instant by a Lt Dragoon yesterday morning eight
                            oClock, I dispatched a Messenger instantly to Governour Trumbull with a Letter a Copy of which I enclose herein, About the
                            same time I receivd a Letter from Governour Trumbull requiring my Attendance at Lebanon on Thursday which is tomorrow
                            morning, to wait upon him and his Council, which he had Summoned there to meet; who sometimes, I beg leave to observe,
                            neglect immediate Attendance upon his Summonses, and as they live dispersed through this Country I have waited on three or
                            four of those Gentlemen who live near this place and shewn them your Excellencys Letter, but they make many objections to
                            going to Lebanon.
                        If there should be a Council Board to morrow morning I hope to obtain the order I want, and after that
                            without one moments loss of time to push on the Salted meat from the Towns in the Manner I have before done.
                        I am now setting out for Lebanon, and am with best Wishes for your Health and Happiness, your Excellencys
                            most Obedient and humble Servant.

                            Ralph Pomeroy.
                            Dep. Quar. Master.

                     Enclosure

                                Sir,
                                Hartford April 10. 1781.

                            As it is not in my power to receive the salted Meat which lies in the several Towns without further
                                Orders and Authority, and your Excellency will see by General Washington’s letter that the Army are on the point of
                                Distress, and the General does not believe that those Resolves were designed to interfere with my arrangement for
                                forwarding on the salted Meat immediately according to the requisitions of the Commissy Genl—I have now to beg that I
                                may be enabled to pursue the only mode practicable, which may be effected only by orders Issuing from your Excellency
                                and Council, similar to those I have before been favoured with, to all the Towns west and adjoining Connecticut River,
                                to remove their salted Beef & Pork, with Teams of their own raising, which, if they will not comply with, I
                                have no possible way of removing the same, without money, which I am destitute of.
                            General Washington, according to my understanding of his Order to me, which I mention’d to your
                                Excellency, has no idea of its remaining any time in this Country for any purpose whatever—I have sent my brother on,
                                least your Excellency might not have time to call in a Council in season.
                            I have received your Excellency’s letter of the 7th instant, and the inclos’d one to Mr Ogden have
                                forwarded that he may have it seasonably—I shall attend precisely at this time, on thursday morning. I am your
                                Excellency’s very Obedient Servant

                                Ralph Pomeroy
                                D.Q. Master

                                Copy


Title: To George Washington from George Weedon, 11 April 1781
From: Weedon, George
To: Washington, George

                            Dr Sir
                            Williamsburg Apl 11th 1781

                        I have recd a report of a small Fleet of the Enemies Vessells being in Potowmac, It does not come Officially
                            to me, but is Communicated by a Mr Turbervill who lives in the Northward Neck on the River, to his son Major Turbervill. I
                            am very Apprehensive they will Visit Hunters workes and the Gun Factory in Fredericksburg, those are Objects worthy of
                            their Attention, and might at this time be distroyed by Twenty men, I would therefore Submit it to your Excellency whether
                            it is prudent to draw the whole defences of the State below, leaving that Country totally uncovered, and protecting one
                            that has no other Object in it More than plunder and which has been Forraged boath by the Enemy and us. Genl Phillips is
                            not unacquainted with the importance of their workes, to our Operations, and will sooner bend his force that way, than
                            confining himself to descent here which can Answer no other purpose than distressing the Inhabitants I
                            would therfore propose some of the Troops shall be marched back, at least such as has but a few Weeks to stay before their
                            tour of duty will Expire, They could be kept together for the Defence of that Country; but will not  for this, Loudonn, Fauquier Prince William Fairfax talks of their tour being
                            out about the 24th Inst. it seems they ware on duty some time previous to Orders for marching down here, and that those
                            who came forward ware the same divisions that ware Call’d on in the first of the Invasions, The Spotsylvania men might
                            also be spared from the Defences in this Quarter, as I cant think the Enemy will Neglect real Objects for temporary ones.
                        Mr Beal has a Quantity of Powder and abt 1000 wt of Lead which he offers to lend to the
                            public, I know not how our Magazines are furnished, but shd think your Excellency had better take it as we may want. I am
                            with high Esteem Yr Excellencies Most Obt St

                            G. Weedon


Title: General Orders, 12 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Thursday April 12th 1781
                            Parole
                            Countersigns

                        A Fatigue party consisting of one subaltern one serjeant and twenty five rank and file to march tomorrow to
                            the place where the Block-house is erecting in the Clove. The officer commanding the party will take his orders from Major
                            Murnand and see that his party be equipped for a tour of ten days.


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 12 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor April 12th 1781

                        I have received your several Letters of the 9th 10th
                            & 11th Instant.
                        It will be proper upon the general principle & practice, to Order an enquiry to be made into the
                            conduct of the Commanding Officer of the Guard, which escorted the Prisoners to Easton.
                        The discriptive Lists of the Recruits may be lodged with the Commanding Officers of Brigades, or the Dep.
                            Adjt Genl as you shall think best.
                        By recurring to the Order of the 3d of Septr and reflecting on the irregularities which will be produced by
                            having the Men of the Corps of Sappers and Miners borne on two different Muster Rolls; I think it will be the most
                            eligible to have the Pay Abstracts of the Men in question made up seperately agreeably to the Establishment, and
                            transmitted to the State of Massachusetts for settlement. Altho these Men are not continued in the Regts of Infantry, they
                            are notwithstanding considered as part of the quota, and are to be deducted from the number of Men to be raised by the
                            State.
                        I have received a Letter from Govr Clinton of the 8th respecting Capt. Simmons,
                            in which he demonstrates it to have been his intention that Simmons should have acted under Your direction, and that he
                            was liable to be removed whenever you thought it expedient, according to the spirit of the enclosed Order from him to Maj
                                r Spaulding. I am Dear Sir With great regard Your Most Obed. Servt

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. Doctor Cochran being sick; application should be made to Doctr McKnight of Fish-kill, in whose
                                hands the Stores are, for such a proportion of them as can be spared.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 12 April 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Westpoint April 12. 1781.

                        The officer whom I sent down the river with the families in the flag sloop, was not permitted to proceed
                            lower than Fort Washington—He procured a New York paper of the 9th which is enclosed. He could
                            not ascertain what troops were doing duty at fort Washington—but saw at the Commandant’s, orderly serjeants from the 38th and 57th regiments of foot, and a dragoon from the 17th—The officer could not discover any shipping at any place within his view down the river.
                        The state of our magazine of provisions grows more and more alarming on account of flour, meat and rum. 5
                            tierces 105 barrels & 70 keggs was all the flour in store here yesterday. The state of the meat, your Excellency
                            will see on the Commissary’s return. At present every other post in this quarter depends on this for supplies.
                        The laying of the chain has been completed without the least accident or damage of boats or otherwise. I have
                            the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                            W. Heath

                            P.S. The enclosed from Sir Henry Clinton, to General Schuyler, this moment came to hand.

                            W.H.


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 12 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor April 12th1781

                        I am favored with your Letter of this day. No means in our power, to have the supplies you mention instantly
                            brought forward, shall be left unessayed: the most pointed Orders have already been given to the proper Officers—repeated
                            applications have been made to the Civil Authority for impress Warrants—and finally we have been forced to have recourse
                            to a military impress, to obtain the teams necessary for the transportation of the flour from Ringwood. I have also
                            written in the most pressing terms, to the Governor of Connecticut, stating our impending distresses, and imploring the
                            interposition and assistance of the Executive in forwarding the salted Provisions from that
                            State—I have now reiterated my directions to the Quarter Master General on that subject, & will give instructions
                            to the Commissary to make arrangements with him for a supply of Rum.
                        Intelligence hath been communicated by from General Foreman to the President of Congress & transmitted
                            by him to me, “that the Enemy are preparing another large embarkation at New York to be commanded by Sir H. Clinton in
                            person; with the design as is reported, to occupy a Post on the Delaware”—how far this is to be depended upon I know not,
                            but it may not be improper to prevent their turning this preparation to a different object, and striking us in a more
                            important part, where they may conceive we are the least suspicious, and consequently the more vulnerable—indeed we ought
                            always to be prepared at all points, and never obnoxious to a surprize even at our most inconsiderable & distants
                            Posts; but I am sensible your vigilence & attention supersed the necessity of any extraordinary caution on my
                            part. I am Dear Sir With great regard & esteem Your Most Obed. Servant

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. I have attentively examined the proposal contained in your private letter of the 10th Instt and am of opinion, from a variety of collateral circumstances which must be taken
                                into consideration, that the attempt wd be inexpedient at the present time—The Gentleman concerned may be assured this
                                is not for want of confidence in his prudence, bravery or ability to conduct an Enterprize.

                            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Elijah Hunter, 12 April 1781
From: Hunter, Elijah
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Newburrow April 12th: 1781

                        You may Remember that in Conversation with you yesturday that I informd your Excellensy the Fealings I have
                            for the Destresses of Mr Kenicuts Family who are Now at this Place and are almost Destitute of the Nesessaries of Life
                            Genl McDogal ordered them a Partial Releaf By Drawing one Ration of Provition But that is Now Stopd By Mr Mitchel, I Now
                            Beg Leave to address you upon that Subject in Behalf of the Woman and her Poor Children and Make No Doubt But your
                            Excellensies Humanity Will Give them a Partial Releaf at present as your Excellensy Will No Doubt Think it More Reasonable to Come from the united States than from me as an
                            Individual which I have advanced for the Three years Past more or Less.
                        Kenecut in Conversation with him Last Night and Intirely unknown to him that I was upon any Plan of Intilegence Informed me that there was Several Persons Within
                            the British Lines of his Cornections, that are Very Friendy and Great advantages may be Gaind by them and Says they Would
                            Come out to Some Place Between the Lines to See him and offers his Servise for the Purpose. I am Dear General

                            Elijah Hunter


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 12 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 12th April 1781.

                        I have been honored with your Excellencys letter of the 7th inclosing the copy of a peice of intelligence
                            communicated by General Forman. I have yet heard nothing of the kind from New York, but still I cannot undertake to
                            contradict it altogether. I do not however think it probable that a detachment, so large as one ought to be to merit the
                            attention of Sir Henry Clinton himself, can be spared from New York without endangering that post. Though indeed from our
                            present strength and our prospects of increasing it a very feeble Garrison would suffice to maintain it: For it may not be
                            improper to observe in this place, that the embarrassments with which we are surrounded for want of Money beggar all
                            description. I very much fear that I shall not be able to get as much provision drawn from the Magazines of the several
                            States to the different posts as will keep the Men from starving or disbanding, altho’ I have made applications to the
                            Executive powers—have addressed the people thro’ their Magistrates and have taken every measure that could be devised to
                            strengthen the hands of the Quarter Master.
                        The Enemy, while they have a superior Fleet, may take a post at a variety of places upon the Delaware and
                            maintain themselves in it while that superiority continues; but if a tolerable share of labor and pains is bestowed upon
                            the Works of Mud Island, experience has shewn that nothing but a very large force determined upon a serious operation can
                            affect the City of Philadelphia. This I think may be impressed upon the Executive of the State with great propriety at
                            this time.
                        Should a small post be established for the purpose of obstructing Commerce and drawing in the supplies of the
                            Country—a Body of Militia from the adjacent parts of Pennsylvania—Delaware—Maryland and Jersey which are all interested in
                            preventing the enemy from extending themselves must be called in. Your Excellency will be pleased to observe that I advise
                            this measure of necessity not of choice. I look upon calling out Militia detrimental in every point of view, but they are
                            the only substitutes for a regular force. I have the honor to be with the most perfect Respect Yr Excellency’s Obedt and
                            humble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Hurlbut, 12 April 1781
From: Hurlbut, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Westmoreland 12th April 1781

                        your Excellency will remember that you received a letter by me from his Excellency Governor Trumbull: at
                            Litchfield in Connecticut the beginning of last march; Inclosing the Coppys of Two Memorials from this place in the name of
                            Thomas McCluer & Others; John Ryon and Others; praying for a discharge from the Service as also the resolves of
                            the assembly thereon—upon my return home I found that the men had most of them marched out, and Others have Since marched,
                            Some few Still remaining who have Large Expensive familys have been Indulged by Colo. Durkee to Continue untill further
                            Orders. and by letters from Camp am Informed that they have received no Orders from your Excellency respecting the Subject
                            of their Discharge—Altho these men weigh but little in the Grand scale of the American Interest. yet their property and
                            family Connections are Dear to them as Individuals—I would therefore in behalf of those men Intreat that their Case may
                            not be Overlooked as of Small Consequence but that they may have an answer as soon as may be Consistant with the publick
                            Good, the state of their case need not be again represented only this much the Season of the year is Such they need Soon
                            to know their Destiny as they must Expect to Support themselves and familys those that have.
                        The Case of John Ryon &c. Differs from the Others as they are and were Counted for the State Quota I
                            Should think the resolve of Congress with respect to them was not Necessary but we Submit all to your Excellencys Great
                            Goodness.
                        Sr you will Excuse my thus writing as they have applyed to me for to assist them by personally applying to
                            your Excellency—the applycation to the Assembly of Connecticut has already Cost them a Considerable Sum Length of Service
                            and badness of pay has reduced them to a low State as to Interest. I am Sr with the Greatest Esteem & respect your Excellencys most Obedient & very humble Servt

                            John Hurlbutt


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 12 April 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Elk April the 12th1781

                        Owing to a very Heavy Rain and a Most Stormy Night I was yesterday obliged to Counter Mand the orders I Had
                            Given to the troops, and Upon the Representation that the Roads to the Susquehana would be Impassable, I differed our
                            departure to this Morning—We shall encamp on a Ground Near the Ferry and Be as Expeditious as possible in Crossing the
                            River—In Consequence of Your Excellency’s permission I Have allowed some officers to Return to the Army with orders to Report themselves to Head Quarters.	The Extreme wants of the officers Have inducedme to permit an officer per Bataillon and one of the Jersay line to Return to the Army and get some
                            cloathes for themselves and the Rest of the Corps—This Measure Appeared to Be Necessary, and Clel Barber is gone to
                            Philadelphia with a letter to the Board of War Exposing our wants and Requesting Some tents, over alls, shirts, shoes
                            &c.—While these will Be preparing I thought I might Indulge Him to go to Morristown, as I think His presence will
                            Be Necessary at Philadelphia By the time when our supplies will Be forwarded.
                        Major Troop Being gone we want a field officer to Reimplace Him—Clel Barber and Major Reed are Happy to
                            Remain with us and I am no less Happy to keep these Excellent officers—Colonel Vose is (I am told) desirous to Return—The officers of His Bataillon knowing that it was His inclination Has waited on Clel Smith to Express to Him the Ardent
                            desire they Had, in Case Clel Vose was Allowed to go, that Clel Smith Be Appointed to the Command—This Circumstance I
                            thought worth Communicating to Your Excellency—Smith is Sick for the present, and a letter would find Him either Here or
                            at Philadelphia—Was He to Be attached to a light Corps as He was last Year I think He would Be glad to Act as Inspector,
                            But in the Southern Army would Be under an officer to whom He is Superior in Rank of Commission.
                        As to Clel Gimat and Major Galvan, Now that their fate is Going to Be decided in a way which Cannot But
                            Affect their feelings and Reputation, I think Myself obliged to Submit to Your Excellency an observation which for fear of
                            Appearing Partial I Had Hitherto Omitted—I will therefore Confidentially Impart to you that
                            Major Galvan is very Unpopular among the officers, while Colonel Gimat is particularly Beloved—Complaints Have often Been
                            Made to me against the one, while the other Has Ever Received from the officers under His Command the Most flattering
                            testimonies of affection, and I may go so far as to say that the Recalling of Clel Gimat will Be very disagreable to His
                            Bataillon—This I Mention to Your Excellency, No that I think the Sentiments of the officers Must Induce you to Recall
                            Major Galvan, a Measure which I would Be far from Advising, But Because this opposition Being perhaps owing to the
                            partiality of the officers for or against private parsons, and this Circumstance Being of a Very serious Nature for these
                            two Gentlemen, I thought it My duty Not to withdraw Any Particulars from Your Excellency’s knowledge. With the Highest and
                            Most affectionate Respect I Have the Honor to Be Your Excellency’s Most obedient Humble servant

                            Lafayette

                            I Beg Leave to present My Respects to Mrs Washington and Compliments to the family.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Loudon, 12 April 1781
From: Loudon, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Fish-Kill 12th April 1781.

                        Since Mr Montange the Phila.  Post Rider was taken in the Clove, I can get no person, fit for the Trust,
                            willing to take that Rout. Montange did it with great reluctance. The bearer has undertook to ride, provided he is
                            permitted to proceed by King’s Ferry; that road is very public, and the Post rarely travelled it alone.
                        If your Excellency will either order your Letters to be sent over here on Wednesdays, or lay your Commands on me to send for them, it shall be complied with, but the Clove road I cannot get
                            a good man to undertake to travil; either Rout don’t facilitate the arrival of the Post sooner in Morris town or at this
                            Place, I shall be glad to receive your Excellency’s instructions on this Head. I am with great deferrence &
                            respect, Your Excellency’s Most Obt servt

                            Saml Loudon

                            P.S. Montange, is a trusty Post, he has a small family here, who are now left with me to provide for in
                                his Absence: his speedy exchange is very necessary. the proper mode to obtain it, I’m ignorant of, whether to your
                                Excellency, the Governor, or the Commissary of Prisoners.


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 12 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters April 12 1781

                        I enclose to you the Extract of a Letter from Major General Heath, of this day; and must again request, that
                            the most vigorous and energetic Measures may be pursued for the transportation of Provisions to relieve the Garrison
                            & the Army from the horrors of impending famine, & me from the incessant complaints and perplexities which
                            are occasioned by our present disagreeable circumstances. I am Dear Sir Your Most Obed. Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 12 April 1781
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Monsieur,
                            à New-port Le 12. avril 1781

                        J’ai Reçu la lettre du 7. de ce mois dont votre excellence m’a honoré, je suis charmé que les affaires du Sud
                            lui permettent de différer L’ordre de Se faire joindre par mon petit corps de troupes, et je n’avois eu l’honneur de lui
                            écrire, que pour me permettre de faire mes preparatifs, pour le moment où la necessité l’exigera. L’esperance d’une entreprise maritime Sur New-yorck, et pour le dire
                            franchement le manque absolu d’especes m’avoit fait differer jusqu’à L’arrivée de L’astrée l’achat des chevaux necessaires
                            à une marche de terre, il y a quinze jours que j’ai donné la commission a Mr Wadsworth de m’acheter peu a peu, pour ne pas
                            être Rançonné, 400. chevaux d’Artillerie, à ajoutter à 160. que j’ai faisant au total 560. absolument necessaires pour
                            trainer L’artillerie de campagne. Je compte Louer des chariots attelés de 4 Boeufs, pour toutes les autres parties du
                            service, et pour les equipages des officiers. quant à mon artillerie de siege, ainsi que tous les magazins d’effets de
                            regiments et de l’armée, Je compte, si votre Excellence l’appro uve en faire le depot à Providence,
                            où je laisserai une petite garnison de 4. ou 5. cens hommes pour leur sureté à joindre aux milices du Pays, car le Coup
                            seroit bon pour Mr Clinton s’il y envoyoit 12 ou 15. cens hommes avec des petits Batimens en état de passer la Barre dont
                            ils ne manquent pas. de ce qu’ils n’y sont jamais venus, il ne faut pas conclure qu’un depot aussi considerable et aussi
                            attrayant, ne fut pas capable de les y attirer, s’il n’y avoit pas de forces pour les arrêter. Quant à New-port si
                            L’escadre, hors que je marcherai a une autre destination, un detachement de milice, pour en garder les ouvrages et la
                            rentrée aux escadres du Roy, est suitement necessaire. Si au contraire L’escadre du Roy y reste, votre Excellence reglera
                            le nombre des troupes que j’y dois laisser relativement à la possibilité qui restera à L’ennemi pour y entreprendre, et la
                            garnison de providence qui Se trouveroit alors couverte par l’escadre du Roy doit en faire partie. Lorsque votre
                            excellence prevoyra qu’elle peut me faire faire un mouvement, je la supplie suitement de m’en prevenir le plus à l’avance
                            qu’il sera possible, Mr Wadsworth m’ayant demandé trois semaines pour pouvoir rassembler les chariots attelés des Boeufs
                            qui seront necessaires pour les differens services, et pour les équipages de L’armée que je reduirai au pur necessaire.
                        En attendant on achette toujours les chevaux d’Artillerie, enforce les magazins de
                            farine à hrdfort, on évacue sur providence nos poudres, nos fers evulés et
                            tout ce qui ne m’est pas necessaire des effets de L’artillerie de siege pour la defense de la Rade et des magazins de
                            L’armée. Tous ces mouvements suffisent pour faire presumer que l’on veut faire une marche par Terre, et rempliront
                            j’espere à cet égard les vues de Votre Excellence, pour donner à New-yorck L’envie de se moins degarnir. Je previens votre
                            Excellence que la marche d’ici à New windsor sera fort lente, le passage des ferrys d’ici à
                            providence la difficulté des chemins à joindre à La Longueur des preparatifs, tout ceci m’engagera à demander aussitot
                            après que mon fils sera arrivé les ordres de votre Excellence, Si nous Sommes reduits à cette défensive, pour y mettre
                            alors toute L’activité qui sera en mon pouvoir. Nos preparatifs Se font pour l’expedition dont j’ai parlé à votre
                            Excellence dans ma lettre du 6. de ce mois, et sur laquelle j’attens ses derniers ordres. Tant que l’escadre anglaise sera
                            à la baye de chesapeak je la regarde comme sure si elle revient à New Yorck pour se radouber elle est encore faisable,
                            mais si elle revient dans la baye de Gardner; elle me paroit trop hazardée, et que l’objet ne meriteroit pas tous les
                            risques que cette expedition partielle auroit à courir. Je crains ce dernier parti de L’ennemi. Le Gouverneur Trumbull a
                            reçu un avis qu’il regarde comme sur de L’aparition de 2 voiles anglaises dans le haut du sund, et leDuc de Lauzun me mande que le gouverneur a quelques inquietudes sur les côôtes de
                            Connecticut, je croirois plustot, si la nouvelle est vraie, que c’est un convoi preparé pour le ravitaillement de
                            L’escadre qu’ils supposent devoir arriver d’un jour à l’autre à la baye de Gardner. si cela est notre affaire est manquée,
                            les preparatifs n’en vont pas ouvrir
                            leur train avec beaucoup de secret, pour que rien ne la Retarde sitot que votre Excellence y aura donné
                            Son aprobation, si la position de L’escadre ennemie permet de L’entreprendre. Je ne concois pas comment les anglais,
                            beaucoup plus maltraités, se radoubent si vite, il faut encore 3. semaines au conquerant pour se mettre
                            en Etat de sortir, il est vrai qu’il a perdu une piece bien essentielle et difficile à remplacer, qui est son gouvernail Le
                            Mr Destouches ne perd pas de tems a toutes ses operations
                        Je Suis &a


Title: From George Washington to Abraham Skinner, 12 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Skinner, Abraham

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters New WIndsor April 12th 81

                        I have examined your report of the 10th of March with the papers accompanying it. I do not see with what
                            propriety the enemy could reject your proposition contained in No. 3 or can postpone the exchange of General Burgoigne on
                            their own principles; two thirds of the Convention officers being now exchanged or nearly so, which was all along made by
                            them a condition to the exchange of General Burgoigne. We must adhere to our propositions and proceed no further ’till his
                            exchange is admitted. It cannot with propriety be connected with any disputable matter; and the affair of the cedars being
                            already determined by Congress cannot be brought into question by me. If the Enemy do not accept your proposition
                            respecting General Burgoigne, you are to demand explicitly of them a number of privates equal to those they are in debt
                            for to us, agreeable to the account settled between you and their Commissary. If they have not privates in their hands
                            here, they have them to the Southward which, being under Sir Henry Clintons command ought equally to be applied to the
                            payment of the debt. I am Sir Yr most Obed. servt.


Title: From George Washington to Walter Stewart, 12 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Stewart, Walter

                            Dear Sir
                             New Windsor 12th April 1781

                        I have been favd with yours of the 21st instant and am much obliged by the general information which
                            you have given of the progress of the line in collecting their old Soldiers and Recruits. Be assured your letters can
                            never be troublesome to me.
                        The communication which you so politely made in your last, respecting your own prospects, gave me a
                            particular pleasure, which will be heightened by hearing that I may congratulate you and present my Compliments to Mrs
                            Stewart—That you may be as happy as you deserve is the sincere Wish of Dear Sir Your most obt Servt


Title: From George Washington to Board of War, 13 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

                            Gentlemen
                            Head Quarters New Windsor April 13th 81

                        The Commissary of Prisoners informs me that there are still a number of officers on Long Island who have been
                            exchanged, but are detained there for want of money to pay their board, not having been able to negotiate the bills which
                            he received for that purpose. This is a most painful circumstance, both as it affects the officers and our public credit.
                            If it were possible to find a sufficient sum of hard money for the purpose, it were much to be wished that it would be
                            done: The Commissary tells me a small sum only is wanted. I am persuaded his not having been hitherto supplied has
                            proceeded from the want of means. With great respect & esteem Gentlemen Yr most Obed. servt.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 13 April 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            West point, April 13. 1781.

                        The last evening I was honored with yours of the 12th to which in its several
                            parts I shall pay attention.
                        After the instructions given by Governor Clinton to Major Paulding, respecting Capt. Simmons, I am not a
                            little surprised that Major Paulding should take him to the lines without ever mentioning the matter to me. Perhaps the
                            opinion I expressed to him, when on his way to the Governor, respecting Simmons, gave him but small grounds to expect I
                            should approve of his being employed on the lines. I shall write him on the subject; and as your Excellency, from the copy
                            of Governor Clinton’s instructions to Major Paulding, has a view of his intentions—I wish your opinion in the case; for I
                            must confess I have no opinion of my own of such sort of people—and that to employ them for any time on the lines, may be
                            attended with very pernicious consequences. I have heard of no desertions from the enemy since Simmons went down; but
                            there have been more from our own troops, than during the whole winter beside. I shall be dictated by your pleasure. Have
                            nothing new from below, expect some intelligence to day or to morrow. I have the honor to be With the highest respect,
                            Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath

                            P.S. I mentioned in a former letter the insufficiency of the provost at Fish kill—and that a new one
                                was necessary. A block house begun at Fish kill, has been thought well calculated for the purpose—It must be removed
                                from its present situation, being too near the barracks and public buildings. Some are of opinion that on many
                                accounts, Pollypus island will be the most advantageous situation. I shall be happy in having your Excellency’s
                                opinion with respect to its being erected on the island.

                            W.H.


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 13 April 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Susquehana Ferry April the 13th1781

                        Had Your Excellency’s Answer to my letter of the 8th Been forwarded with an Equal
                            Celerity with your favor of the 6th I would Have Received it Before this time—But whatever
                            change my New situation Could Make in Your Excellency’s dispositions I thought it my duty in the mean while to obey the
                            positive orders I Had Received—The troops are now crossing the ferry and will with all possible Speed proceed to
                            Richmond.
                        By a letter just Received from General Greene I find that He is strongly of opinion that I must go to the
                            Southward—His intention is to Carry the Seat of war into South Carolina, there By preventing a junction Between Arnold
                            and Cormwallis—He gives me Many Excellent Reasons to justify the movement He Requests me to make to Richmond, and they
                            will if possible increase my zeal to E Your Excellency’s orders.
                        General Greene’s opinion is that Lord Cornwallis will fall down towards Willmington—His own project is to
                            Carry the war into South Carolina—Under these Circumstances a Corps of light infantry Embarked at Philadelphia on Board a
                            light squadron might Have Been upon the Seat of war in a very short passage.
                        I cannot Help fearing, my dear General, that our Campaign will take a defensive turn which is far from
                            Answering to our first plans and expectations.
                        Major McPherson is with Me as a Volonteer—The officer Has most zealously Employed Himself and Has Most
                            dangerously Been Exposed in the discovery of a plot made to furnish the Ennemy with provisions—He has Managed this Matter
                            with infinite Adress, Being for two days and one night with six soldiers who as well as Himself put on the Air of British
                            and in Compagny with a Spy who thought them to Be Ennemy and By a Most Violent Gale of wind Crossed the Bay in a Small
                            Boat By which Means he was made sensible that a trade of flour is Carried with the Ennemy from the Western Shore of
                            Maryland and saved a Magazine of 800 Barrels of Continental flour which would other wise have fallen into the Hands of the
                            Ennemy.
                        in Case we proceed southerly perhaps will it Be possible for General Greene to Give Major McPherson a Command
                            in some detachment, And I would Be Happy if He was Recommended to Him By Your Excellency.
                        My determination Being to go on with Rapidity Unless I am Recalled, Your Excellency May Easely judge of
                            my Movements from the Answer I will probably Receive in A few Hours.
                        Was I to Assure Your Excellency that this journey is perfectly Agreable to the troops I would not use that
                            Candor which you Have so many Rights to Expect—But their zeal and discipline insure their Readiness to obeyI shall do
                            my utmost to prevent desertion, and, Unless I was Recalled, shall proceed with Celerity—But Beg Your Excellency to
                            remember that Experience Has often taught us How much Reduced Has Ever Been the number of our troops from the time of
                            their departure to that of their arrival at the Southern Army. With the Highest and Most Affectionate Respect I Have the
                            Honor to Be Your Excellency’s Most obedient Humble servant

                            Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 13 April 1781
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            My Dear General
                            Boston April 13th1781

                        I was Yesterday honored with your Favor of the 4th Inst.
                        Every attention is paid to collect and forward the Troops with dispatch from all the Counties saving those in
                            the eastern part of this State. they, by a resolve of the Assembly in their last session, were detained untill the
                            pleasure of your Excellency & that of Congress could be known with respect to their being further detained for the defence of those Counties.  As soon as your Excellency informed me that you could not accede to the measure, I wrote and informed the Governor of it
                            of which the Assembly were acquainted, but did not repeal their former resolve.
                        I expect there will be an Assembly to Morrow and that they will order the Troops instantly to march.
                        You mention the return of the Officers—nothing prevents it but the want of Money many have not a shilling to
                            enable them to do it—A great proportion of the Officers sold their depretiation Notes and are not benefitted by the order
                            for the payment of them The committee appointed by the General Court in their last session to settle with the Army
                            declined the Trust so that nothing has been done in the recess.
                        As soon as the Court are together I will apply to them for an Order directing the Treasury to give the
                            preference, in paying the Officers, to those who are ordered on.
                        By the inclosed papers your Excellency will have all the News in this Quarter.
                        Major Clarkson will have the honor to deliver this, I have sent him that he may viva, voce give your
                            Excellency a particular State of matters here and the general Sentiments of the people, and relate a matter which I dare
                            not commit to writing. I am my Dear General With every Sentiment of Esteem Your Excellency’s most obedt & most
                            humble Servt

                            B. Lincoln


Title: From George Washington to Nathaniel Stevens, 13 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Stevens, Nathaniel

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor April 13th 1781

                        You will be pleased to point out to the Quarter Master Genl at what Places there are any quantities of Public
                            Rum deposited, & concert Measures with him for the transportation of an immediate supply to the Army. I am Sir
                            Your Humble Servt


Title: To George Washington from Elias Dayton, 14 April 1781
From: Dayton, Elias
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Chatham April 14th 1781

                        I received your Excellency’s letter dated the 11th last evening. I believe
                            without a doubt that another embarkation is in great forwardness and that in every point it will be more respectable than
                            that of the last under General Phillips. I have enclosed a letter from Capt. Scudder commanding at Elizth Town, which is
                            in a great measure confirmed by my private intelligence from the city. How they can spare such a number of men from New
                            York consistently with their own safety is to me very mysterious and what I cannot reconcile with my idea of their
                            strength & numbers. The opinion seems to prevail, that they are intended to act on the Delaware river and in
                            Pennsylvania, rather than in the Cheseapeake or to the southward; of the three I must confess, the first appears to me
                            most probable—it is indeed possible that something of more consequence that we are aware of is now upon the carpet.
                        Admiral Arbuthnot I am informed is returned to Gradiner’s bay, also that Arnold has returned with at least a
                            part of his troops, certain it is that upward of twenty sail of transports were seen going up to the city on Thursday,
                            which were said and supposed to be Arnold.
                        The refugees are all ordered to be embodied, their Officers are nominated and a Colonel Conolly is appointed
                            to command them, and it is generally said they are going to Quebec. An officer told my informant that all those refugees
                            who would not enlist would be immediately impressed and put on board the ships.
                        I enclose for your Excellency’s perusal, Gazette extraordinary, from whence it
                            appears that Great Britain has brought upon herself a war with Portugal as well as with the United States.
                            I am your Excellencys Most Obedient Hbe servant

                            Elias Dayton


Title: To George Washington from Robert Hanson Harrison, 14 April 1781
From: Harrison, Robert Hanson
To: Washington, George

                            Dr Sir
                            Philadelphia April 14th 1781

                        As soon as I came to the City, I applied to Doctr Baker for such pinchers as Your Excellency wanted,
                            & finding he had but one pair, which he could not part with, I engaged him to procure a set. He has assured me he
                            has made diligent inquiry upon the occasion & has not been able to succeed. The matter, he says, will still be
                            retained in his mind and if he can find a pair, he will forward them to camp by the first Opportunity.
                        I have been detained here, ever since saturday Sennight by a painful indisposition, and though much better now,
                            do not know whether I shall be in condition, especially if the Weather continues so exceedingly cold & disagreable
                            to set out for four or Five days. This has prevented my going to the General Court on the Eastern Shore, at which I would
                            willingly have been, & which ought to have begun on Tuesday Morning, but whether it did, is a matter of doubt,
                            owing to the state of the Enemy in the Bay & the communication being, in a great degree, interrupted by them,
                            between the Two Shores. Colo. Grayson has just arrived from the Southward & tells me they have done much more
                            mischief up the River than I had heard of. He says they have burnt the whole of Colo. Barnes’s Houses near Leonard
                            Town—robbed several—and that he was told on the road they had proceeded up Potomack as far as the Mouth of Portobacco
                            Creek and burnt priest Hunter’s elegant buildings. They were there within Ten miles of my place. He also tells me a small
                            pickerooning Vessel had beeb at Alexandria to cut some Vessel out of the port, which had been captured,
                                after a chace of Sixty Miles down the River. What a defenseless condition are We
                            in, to be liable to be insulted by a mere barge, such a distance from the Enemy’s
                                post? Unless we should be so happy as to receive a reinforcement of Ships, & such as will
                            give our Allies, a superiority in these seas, I think, we shall experience infinite distress this Summer, both in Virginia
                            & Maryland Having been confined to the House ever since Monday week, I have had little or no
                            opportunity of hearing much about politics or public affairs. I believe however, all our embarrassments, with respect
                                to money, exist in full force, and how they are to be relieved, is a point as yet unsettled,
                            & which I fear is too much for our wisdom. The constituting of Boards of Finance &c. &c. seems to
                            be at an end, at least for the present. General StClair is here & has been much afflicted with the Gout. He and
                            General Wayne, and indeed All the Officers I have seen, have been using their best endeavours to get things in train for
                            advancing their Troops to the Southward. They are at a stand for Money, and I don’t know that they have a prospect of
                            getting any, as the Assembly broke up Two or three days ago, without having provided a Supply. The supreme Court is
                            sitting here, and I am just told the Grand Jury has found an information or Bill of Indictment against J.
                            Mease & West for their conduct after the evacuation of the City by the Enemy in
                            1778. I hope they will be made to pay through the Nose for their iniquities. It is strange, but it is
                                true, that several Men of high Character visit & are on terms of intimacy
                            still with Mease. There has not been an arrival from any quarter since I came here,
                            so that there is a dearth of news: There are Reports that Count DEstaing has sailed
                            from Brest with Thirty three ships of the line & that ten of them are for Us—but I
                            can’t find that these are well founded. I hope however we may expect succour. We never wanted it more. I request Your
                            Excellency to present me most respectfully to Mrs Washington and the Gentlemen of the family & to accept my best
                            wishes for your happiness. I am Dear Sir with the greatest Yr most Obed. st

                            Rob: H: Harrison


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 14 April 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            West point April 14th 1781

                        The enclosed proceedings of the Brigade Court martial appointed by Colo. Commandant Greene, came to hand
                            since writing my other letter of this date.
                        I forward one Charles Simpson, a Groom to Colo. Gunning, of the 82 British Regt who has, (as he saies)
                            deserted from his Colonel with a Saddle Horse, he can relate many particulars respecting the Situation of the Enemy,
                            mentions that the Grenadiers, and 76th Regt are soon to embarke, and that Sir Henry Clinton is to go with them; he also
                            mentions a great number of waggons having brought over from Long Island, for a Grand Forage, which he Supposes took place
                            yesterday, this accounts for the Sending down the Flat Boats, from Kings bridge by the way of Harlem a few Days ago, which
                            I mentioned in a former Letter. I have the honor to be with the highest respect your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 14 April 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            West point April 14. 1781. 9 o’clock P.M.

                        I have just received the inclosed from Capt. Pray, by which it seems the fleet has returned from the
                            southward, but whether with or without troops, does not yet appear. There certainly are several movements which require
                            critical observations. Simpson the deserter (or whatever he may be) who I sent up this afternoon, says a large number of
                            four and two horse waggons had been brought from Long island to West Chester, as was said, for a grand forage—their
                            numbers being upwards of one hundred. By Capt. Pray’s letter the militia of West Chester county have been called in for
                            some purpose—and if his information is true, the 42d regiment, at least, has returned to New York. The collecting of
                            forage may be a necessary step preparatory to the embarkation; especially if the 17th Dragoons are to embark—and the
                            waggons may be designed for no other purpose, or they may have another object. I have cautioned Colo. Greene and Capt.
                            Pray, if possible to develop their motions and designs, to guard against a surprise and to give me the earliest
                            intelligence they obtain.
                        By the gazette extraordinary it seems the flames of war are likely to spread, if the accounts are to be
                            credited.
                        I wish the musket cartidges may be ordered down as soon as possible—and give me provisions, are at present my
                            only request. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellency Most obedient servant,

                            W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 14 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters New Windsor April 14th 1781

                        By advices just received from Col. Brodhead, dated at Fort Pitt the 10th Ulto I am informed there are strong
                            indications from several quarters, that Hostilities will be committed pretty extensively on the frontiers by the Savages,
                            at the Opening of the Campaign—that the Troops under his command are very much distressed for want of Provisions, that
                            they have been at half allowance of meat ever since the 26th of Decr and frequently hath before & since without
                            any, for several days successively—And that, should the Indians be as active & enterprizing as is expected, the
                            Post could not be maintain’d without Magazines of Salted Provisions.
                        In pointing out the Places of deposit for the Supplies of the several States; I had directed 2400 Barrels of
                            flour 1000 Barrels of Salt Meat, or salt equivalent to put up that quantity on the spot, and 7000 Gallons of Spirits, to
                            be deposited by the State of Pennsylavania at Fort Pitt. If no measures have been taken to carry this requisition into
                            execution, I must entreat the attention of Congress to the subject, that the State may be urged to immediate compliance,
                            and that effectual Means may be adopted to releive the present distresses, and avert the calamities, which will be
                            otherwise inevitable.
                        I have been honored with your Excellency’s Letter of the 6th Inst. and am happy to see the tribute of
                            gratitude paid to the gallant efforts of our generous Allies. With the highest respect I have the honor to be Your.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 14 April 1781
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia April 14. 1781

                        Your Excellency’s Letters of the 24th & 31st Ulto the 3d & 4th Instant, with the Despatches to
                            which they refer have been received.
                        You will observe by the enclosed Resolve it is the Pleasure of Congress that you employ an additional
                            confidential Secretary, and as many Writers as you shall judge proper to arrange & register the public Letters
                            &c.; and assign them such Salaries as you shall judge reasonable. I have the Honor to be with the highest respect
                            Your Excellencys most obedient humble Servant

                            Saml Huntington President


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 14 April 1781
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia April 14. 1781

                        Your Excellency will receive enclosed, a resolve of Congress of the 13th Instant, relative to the Mode adopted
                            to pay the new Levies, recommending it to the several States to make Payment.
                        And also directing the future Application of Claimants for Settlement of Accounts, for Payment of liquidated
                            Accounts, for Rank, Discharges, Losses &c., or for resignation.
                        The former Part of this resolve respecting the new Levies, I presume is intended for those only who served
                            the last Campaign, and if any of them have received partial Payments from their regimental Paymasters, which is probable
                            as I am informed by the Paymaster General, Care should be taken to transmit the same to the respective States. I have the
                            Honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellency’s most obedient Servant

                            Saml Huntington President


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 14 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                            My dear Marquis
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 14th April 1781

                        Your two letters of the 10th came to hand last Night—In mine of the 11th I informed you as fully as it was
                            prudent to do upon paper, that there was at present little or no prospect of an operation in the quarter you seem to
                            wish—The Contingencies appeared to me so remote in the Conversations I had with Count Rochambeau that I could not justify
                            myself in withdrawing a detachment already so far advanced towards the point in which relief is immediately and absolutely
                            necessary.
                        To have sent the detachment by water would certainly have been in every respect advantagious; But even
                            supposing Mr des Touche should consent to spare the number of ships you mention, would it be safe to risque so valuable a
                            Body of Men upon so unequal a force in the face of the whole British Fleet? For we cannot suppose their intelligence so
                            bad, but they would have notice of the embarkation and take measures to intercept it.
                        If it becomes absolutely necessary for Colo. Vose to return he must be indulged, but it will not do, under
                            present circumstances, to give Colo. Smith the command of the Battalion, as it would afford fresh ground for the
                            complaints which already exist on account of having some of the Battalions commanded by Field officers not belonging to
                            the lines from which they are drawn.
                        If Colo. Smith goes to the southward, in his present Capacity, he will roll with the other subinspector
                            according to his Rank—The Dy Adjt General in that department is Colo. Williams—So that you will find yourself mistaken in
                            supposing that he will be liable to be commanded on the Staff by his inferiors in Rank—You know my opinion of and my value
                            for Smith, and you may be assured that could I gratify him, without doing an injury to the service and to individuals, I
                            would with pleasure comply with the request you make in his behalf.
                        Congress have received an information, thro’ General Forman, that Sir Henry Clinton means in person to take
                            post upon the Delaware at New Castle—I have heard of no preparation at New York for an embarkation of that consequence, or
                            of any other, and therefore I do not put much confidence in theS report, upon so large a scale—A party may perhaps be going
                            into Delaware Bay to interrupt the Commerce of Philada and draw supplies from the disaffected near the shores.
                        I expect to hear of some desertions from you in consequence of your move, but the composition of your troops
                            is good and if the Officers enter upon the service with alacrity, I have no doubt but the Men will soon forget their
                            attachments in this quarter and follow chearfully. With truest Regard I am &c,

                            P.S. I have just read a letter of the 6th from Genl St Clair at Philada in which he informs me that he
                                expected about 900 of the Penna line would be ready to march from York town in ten days from that time.


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 14 April 1781
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Newburgh April 14. 1781.

                        I had the honour to inform you, on my return from Philadelphia, of what passed there relative to the means of
                            procuring the numerous supplies requisite in my department for the ensuing campaign; and was unhappy that no prospect was
                            presented of my obtaining a single shilling for that end. As the only alternative therefore, I
                            submitted to your Excellency’s judgment the expediency of calling on the several states to furnish camp equipage for their
                            own troops respectively; which proposal you was pleased to approve. This also corresponds with the articles of
                            confederation, wherein it is declared (Art. 9) That Congress shall make requisitions from each state for its quota of
                            troops; “which requisition shall be binding, and thereupon the legislature of each state shall appoint the regimental
                            officers, raise the men, and cloathe arm and equip them in a
                            soldier-like manner at the expence of the United States.”
                        I therefore now beg leave to lay before your Excellency the inclosed estimates of tents, knapsacks and
                            haversacks requisite for the troops of the four New England states. If in this mode these can be supplied, the general
                            provision made and making will be adequate to the demands of the other troops composing the main army. In these estimates
                            I have omitted camp kettles, because they are not to be procured in the eastern states, & I hope to obtain them
                            from Pennsylvania. Canteens are making in Massachusetts for the whole main army.
                        I have made the estimates in detail, that by inspection only your Excellency might judge of the propriety of
                            the proposed allowances of camp equipage. I thought too that in this form they would be more satisfactory to the states
                            themselves than a general demand. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect your Excellency’s most obedt servant

                            T. Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 14 April 1781
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            au Gal Washington
                            à New-port 14. avril 1781.

                        J’ai reçu la lettre de Votre Excellence du 10. de ce mois, au Sujet de l’expedition proposée par L’Etat de
                            Boston,à laquelle vous Vouliez bien donner Votre approbation sous dèux restrictioun, La premiere qui
                            regarde la Marine, concerne Mr le chevalier Destouches qui a l’honneur d’y repondre par la Lettre cy
                            jointe. quant à la seconde qui regarde la terre, j’avois éte assez heureux pour prevenir les Sagen reflexions de votre
                            excellence, J’avois mis le chevalier de Chatelus en état de se passer de tout Secours des milices
                            circonvoisines, en lui donnant 800. hommes de troupes, 4. mortiers de 12. pouces, 4. pieces de 24. independemmet de celles
                            qu’il auroit pu tirer des Vaisseaux par augmentation, ce qui étoit plus que suffisant pour reduire un fort où il y a 350.
                            hommes de garnisson sans aucun souterrein ni chemin couvert, ni aucun ouvrage exterieur. Ce detachement étoit tout prèt à
                            s’embarquer, mais il m’a paru que les observations de Votre Excellence sur la aeparation de L’escadre, sur le risque
                            d’ètre interrompu par des forces superieures dans le cours de l’expedition que Mr Destouches ne juge pas possible
                            d’entreprendre avec ses seules fregates, sont les motifs qui lui font renoncer absolument à ce dessein pour le moment
                            present.
                        Je Suis avec Respect & a


Title: From George Washington to Abraham Skinner, 14 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Skinner, Abraham

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 14. April 1781.

                        Some instructions just recd from Congress make it improper to carry those given to you a few days ago into
                            execution. You will therefore forbear entering into any negotiation with Mr Loring on the subject of exchanges, untill you
                            hear further from me, which shall be in a day or two. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Nathaniel Stevens, 14 April 1781
From: Stevens, Nathaniel
To: Washington, George

                            May it please Your Excellency,
                            Fish kill April 14th 1781.

                        I had the Honour of receiving Your Excellency’s Letter of Yesterday, in Obedience to which acquainted Colonel
                            Pickering the State of Connecticut had Forty Hogsheads of Rum at or near Hartford and Fifteen at Philadelphia; The former
                            Quantity Mr Pomeroy informs me has not been delivered to him for the Purpose of forwarding. I also informed Colo:
                            Pickering that there is a considerable Balance of that Article due from Massachusetts State, I expect two or three hundred
                            Hogsheads at least, and that I had wrote very urgent to the Agent and Deputy Quarter Master of the State representing our
                            Situation and requesting they would send us one hundred Hogsheads or more soon as possible.
                        Twenty seven Beef Cattle arrived Yesterday from that State, and the Drover brought verbal Information from
                            the Agent that fifty head would be on, the ensuing Week. I have the Honour to be with due Respect, May it please Your
                            Excellency, Your Excellency’s most obedient Servant,

                            Nat. Stevens D.C. Genl of Issues


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 15 April 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 15th April 1781.

                        The Bearer Mr Fish of Saratoga district came to me this morning, with the intelligence of which the inclosed
                            is a Copy. How he obtained it from one Harris, he will inform your Excellency. Harris, whose Character perhaps your
                            Excellency may be acquainted with, is to meet the party under the command of Ensign Smith the 20th of this month—is to
                            convey a packet to Albany and to carry another back to them. He proposed to Fish to seize him at a place to be agreed upon
                            and to take the letters from him. But I think a better way would be, to let him carry the letters and answers in the first
                            instance to Genl schuyler, who might contrive means of opening them without breaking the seals—take Copies of the
                            contents, and then let them go on. By these means we should become Masters of the whole plot—whereas, were we to seize
                            Harris upon his first tour, we should break up the chain of communication, which seems so providentially thrown into our
                            hands. Should your Excellency approve of the measure which I have suggested, you will be pleased to write to Genl Schuyler
                            upon the subject, and desire him, should business call him from Albany, to leave the conduct of the Affair in proper hands
                            in his Absence. I have promised Fish that both he and Harris shall be handsomely rewarded if they execute the Business
                            with fidelity.
                        I have recd your Excellency’s favors of the 30th ulto and 8th Inst. Every thing in my power shall be done to
                            keep up the supply of provision to the Northward, but our great difficulty now lies in getting it from the Magazines in
                            the neighbouring States. The Quarter Master in Moneyless and the people refuse to work longer upon Certificates. With the
                            highest Respect and Esteem I am Yr Excellency’s Most obt Servt

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