Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 19 March 1780
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Baskingridge [N.J.] March 19th 1780.

          I Yesterday received your Excellency’s letters of the 5th & 13th. I can Assure your Excellency upon my Honor that I had no Sinister or disguised Veiw in sending to you the Orders I had framed for the Police of my division; Collecting in a short Veiw, what was dispersed in different places and adding a very few articles peculiarly Necessary in the Hutted State of the Army, I thought would be of use; and was my plain honest Motive for sending them. It was therefore Matter of some Surprize to me, to find that it had drawn from your Excellency the letter of the 5th, It is however sufficient Consolation to me, that it Affords me an Opertunity of declareing to your Excellency that I am fully of your Sentiments on the whole Subject it treats of, and no one Can be more thoroughly Convinced of the Necessity of the principal Officers of the Army Attending personally to the disipline and police of it: had it been possible for me to have performed this Service I should have been with the division I have the honor to Command as often as the weather permitted, but I have not for these two months been able to be on horseback with so firm a Seat as was Necessary in extreeme Bad roads; besides getg my feet wet, which was Scarce avoidable I was sure would have been attended with very Serious Consequences to me. Yet I hope the Attention I have been able to bestow to that Division has had many good Effects, when I came to this Command the two Brigades were indeed much out of Order; they were Just returned from the Western Expedition, where the Established “Regulations for the Order and Disipline of the Troops” were Scarce ever heard of. No Conductor of Military Stores to either Brigade, and Consequently the Arms and Amunition Scattered in a Variety of hands where they were neglected; lost, or embezzelled. they were Also without an Inspector; the Disipline of Course became relaxed and very much Neglected, the Companies broke to peices, some of them without either Commissioned or NonCommissioned Officers; these defects have been provided for in the best Manner In my power and I have the Satisfaction to find that their Arms are in excellent Order; It is true there is still a defeciency of some Muskets and many Bayonets, but this is not our fault, frequent Returns and Demands have been made of them, but we have been told that they are not yet to be had. the forming the Companies and Batalions agreable to the printed regulations has been Carried as far as the Circumstances of the Corps will admit of; Hazens Regt is too large for one Battalion, Livingstons too small for one, both together would make two very Sizeable Battalions. But on Mentioning such a reform to the Gentlemen of your family I was informed that it was not in Your Excellency power to Carry

it into Execution, I therefore did not trouble you on that Subject. the frequent meetings I have had with the Officers of the division on the busyness of it has I belive inspired them with an emulation to perform their Duty exactly agreable to the Regulations, for by the Reports of Gentlemen I have frequently in Camp for that purpose, they are very much Altered within the last Six week’s. But here I must not omit a Circumstance that really is Scandalous to the Service, the Officers of Hazen’s Livingstons and Spencers Regiments have no particular State to patronize them, their Officers have Consequently not had a morsel of Cloathing furnished to them since they entered the Service, they are no longer able to purchase, and in Short are now so Naked that they are Ashamed to Come out of their Huts, they can not appear even so decent as the Common Soldier unless he Borrows the Cloathing from them, how humilliating is their Scituation, they find they have spent in the Service—what little money they had when they enterd it, and have now Scarce a Rag to put on their Backs, nor no rescourse for procureing any; they have been referred to the States in which they were raised, but this supply has been found impracticable, some of those Regiments have officers and men from every State North of Virginia, some even from Canada, it would be an Endless and fruitless work to apply to those Several States for their different quota’s of Cloathing for the Officers of each Regiment, indeed such as have applyd have been absolutely refused. the Officers must feel disspirited, without Emulation, or the least temptation to remain in the Service, they must quit it, and seek an exeistance by their labour; in Consequence of which the Men will follow, and I am very apprehensive we shall have nothing but the Names of those Corps left by the opening of the ensueing Campaign, 700 very Valuable Officers and Men I expect will leave my division of the Army, unless something be Speedily done to Cloathe those Officers. it makes no manner of difference in point of Expence to the public, wether they be furnishd by an officer appointed for that purpose immediately under Congress, or by the Several States, the latter is found impracticable, the relief lyes in Congress only, and it is very easy, if they would appoint a Commissary to Supply the Officers of all these unadopted Corps with such Cloathing and all other Necessaries as are furnished to the pensilvania Troops; along side of whom they are now Serving and ought to be on the Same footing in every article of appointment or Emolument.
          I hope your Excellency has not been troubled with any applications for sometime past from my division, on any Matters that Could be Setled by the General Officers of it. I very early Strictly forbid it, and ordered that every application should pass thro’ the Colonel, & Brigadier to the Major General and that in Cases Necessary it would be recommended in writeing to your Excellency, I do not know of an Instance that this

Rule has been broke thro’, and I could wish it was a strict Rule at head Quarters, not to receive any Busyness from my Division; but what was so recommended.
          It will on every occasion afford me great Satisfaction to be able to give your Excellency any Assistance in the busyness of the Army, I have strove to do it, as far the Scituation of my health would admit, the Warm weather Comeing on, I hope will soon enable me to be abroad and your Excellency may be Assured that I shall devote as much of my time as I can in frequent personal Inspection and Reveiws of the different Regiments of the Division and a Close attention to the whole Economic’s of the Camp. I have the honor to be your Excellency’s Most Humble Servant

            stirling,


Title: General Orders, 20 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown Monday March 20th 80.
            Parole Confederate—  C. Signs Cork. Calais—


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 20 March 1780
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            War Office [Philadelphia] March 20th 1780.

          The board do themselves the honor to inclose copies of some letters which they have recd on the subject of the Supplies of the Army. They are exceedingly concerned that the prospects from some of them, are so unpromising. And are much alarmed for the consequences; nor can they conjecture what may be the event, unless the late regulations in the finances produce a favorable change in our Circumstances.
          At this place there are only about one hundred barrels of Flour—& four hundred barrels have lately been sent on—the board have also contracted with Genl Dickinson for 150 barrels of flour, & 2500 bushels of Indian corn to be delivered at Trenton within ten days.
          The board are unacquainted with the prospects of Col. Blaine, but imagine his dependence is chiefly on the Supplies which he expects from the States in Virtue of the late requisition of Congress. I have the honor to be With the highest respect Yr Excellencys Most Obed. Sert.

            by ord. of the board.Ben Stoddert Secy


Title: To George Washington from Major General Robert Howe, 20 March 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Highlands [N.Y.] 20th March 1780

          I sent down a Guide who has pretty intelligent Conexions below and is himself intelligent, his accounts I send your Excellency tho they are

not very Explicit or satisfactory. One of his Relations was in New York two or three days ago, he says that An Embarkaton is taking place and they seem to intend a Sea Voyage, that three Generals are to go with it, Mathews, Patterson, & a Hessian General whose name he can not remember. their Destination a profound secret, but some small Vessels being part of the Fleet, Southern Enterprise was suspected. I have an Emissary down who is instructed to learn in what manner these Vessels are fitted, how Victual’d, how wooded and water’d, whether clean or Foul, and every inquiry necessary to discover whether they are Destind for interior or Exterior Operations. It is said (but it is only Report) that a number of Flat Bottom’d Boats were Collecting at Fort Washington, this also I shall take steps to be certain of. I have nothing particular to add. I am Dear sir with the Greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obt hum. servt

            R: Howe


Title: From George Washington to John Mitchell, 20 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Mitchell, John

            Dr Sir,
            Hd Qrs Morris-town Mar. 20th 1780

          You will do me a favour by enquiring, & letting me know as soon as possible, if any good Coachmaker in Phila. or German Town (Bringhurst for instance) will engage to make me a genteel plain Chariot with neat Harness for four horses to go with two postilions—I wish to know the terms and in how short a time it can be done—I also beg to know if the harness could be soon had without the carriage.
          That the Workmen may be at no loss to fix a just price on these things on Acct of the fluctuating, & uncertain state of our Curr[enc]y, he may make his estimates in Specie which shall either be paid him immediately upon delivery of the Work—or in paper money at the difference of exchange then prevailing—be it little or much—this will put the matter upon so clear & unequivocal a footing that he can be at no loss in fixing prices, nor be under the smallest inducemt to ask an enormous price in order to g[uar]d against the evil consequences of depreciation.
          You will do me a favr by answering this letter speedily as I have particular reasons for requesting it. I am Dr Sir Yr Obt Servt

            G. W——n

            P.S. I must beg the favr of you to enquire further; whether Nails & other kind of Mounting, & trimmings, necessary to the lining & finishing of a

Chariot could be had in any of the Shops—or from any of the Coachmakers in Phila.—there is a good workman at Springfield (in this State) but he has not this kind of furniture by him necessary to compleat a char[io]t.

              Go: W——n


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Ezra Newhall, 20 March 1780
From: Newhall, Ezra
To: Washington, George

            Soldiers Fortune [N.Y.]March 20th 1780
            May it Please your Excellency

          I am excessively sorry to trouble you on a subject so very remote from your attention, yet flatter my-self that if consistant with the service, your Excellency will grant me my request.
          In November last the Major of the Regiment obtained a furlough for forty days, on his return I expected the same indulgence, but unfortunately he was deprived of his life by one of his neighbours, this accident intirely disappointed me, and have had the honor of Commanding the Regiment all winter—Colonel Putnams furlough expires the first of April, and beg your Excellency will on his return, permit me to visit my eight motherless children, whose youth renders them altogether incapable of helping themselves, unless I can obtain permission of visiting them once a year, to put them in a situation to subsist, your Excellency cannot be insensible of ⟨mutilated⟩ dificulties that attend providing for families, (⟨mutilated⟩ their Head is with them), I hope these reas⟨ons⟩ ⟨mutilated⟩ viewed as obvious, and that your Excell⟨ency⟩ ⟨mutilated⟩ empower the commanding officer of this post, to grant me my request on the within terms, altho I am verbally informed that Colonel Putnam means to make application, to have his furlough lengthened, still shall be willing to tarry till his return. I have the Honor to be, Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servant

            Ezra Newhall


Title: General Orders, 21 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown tuesday March 21st 80.
            Parol Derry.  C. Signs Dublin. Dundee—

          A Corporal and three men from each of the Maryland brigades and a Corporal and three men from Maxwell’s brigade are to be sent to Commissary Gamble tomorrow morning to be put as guards at the Mills now grinding grain for the Army.


Title: To George Washington from Jabez Bowen, 21 March 1780
From: Bowen, Jabez
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Providence March 21 1780

          Incloased you have a Resolve of the Council of War, recommending to your Exellency to permitt Gillam Butler Esqr. a British Commissary to go into NewYork on Parole or to be Exchangd, (if the good of the service will permitt). I am with every sentiment of Esteeme Your Exellencys Most Obedient and most Humb. Servant

            Jabez Bowen Dep.-Govr

            P.S. I have Mr Butlers Parole in my possession. he has a Copy.

              J.B.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 21 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

            Dr Sir
            Hd Qrs Morristown 21st March 1780

          I have before me your two favors of the 16 and 17th instant.
          I am pleased to find that the notice you had received of the preparations of the enemy, was such as to anticipate my information to you on this subject. Should any attempt be really intended, and take place, against this or your quarter, I am satisfied that nothing which our circumstances will permit, will be left undone, on your part. I presume that you are sufficiently acquainted with the signals for alarming the country, and their application—provided it should become necessary to call in the militia.
          It is among the things to be lamented, that the state and prospect of our supplies of provisions is not better. The imbarrassments on this head are disheartening, but it is to be hoped we shall get over them.
          Your ideas respecting the chain have not escaped me. But altho I have thought of its insufficiency, and looked towards its improvement, yet I could not conceive much reasonable hope of any considerable

alteration. With so much to do, in our circumstances, it was impossible to do all. And that which was most important naturally claimed the principal attention. What appears most within our compass, and which in my opinion will augment the strength of the chain are the cables and anchors that have been proposed; and I wish you to lay the matter before Col. Hay D.Q.M.G. and consult him how far the obtaining of such articles is practicable.
          With regard to the question on Stoney and Verplanks points. It is not easy to calculate instructions for all possible cases; or even what should be the precise mode of conduct in a particular one; because it is difficult, if not impossible to comprehend a thorough knowlege of the circumstances which may take place, and which are subject to constant variation. If we were to consider only the original purpose of these works, as intended to cover the ferry-way, and in some degree to afford a protection to the neighbouring shores, we should not perhaps be induced to expose their garrisons to certain capture. But if we combine with these objects a weak state of the garrison of West-point, and the time to be gained for calling in the militia, or drawing forward remote succours, and which would be derived from a proper resistance made at Kings-ferry, it might dispose us to hazard the investiture and attack of its two posts. But here we would be guided by the real force of the enemy, and their intentions against West-point—the state of our own strength there—and the capability of the works at Stoney point and Verplanks for a serious defence, with the general good, or inconveniencies which would result from a defence or evacuation. You will also observe that it is altogether out of my power to go beyond provisionary instructions on this head, and that circumstances must decide your conduct should the enemy operate your way.
          As to the present weak state of the force at West-point, and the change which may be made in it by calling in a part of general Poors brigade, I would prefer to this the measure you hint of moving troops from the cantonement on the opposite side, at least for the present, or till some substantial occasion shall occur for a further support.
          Inclosed you will find a letter to the deputy clothier at Newburg, in which he is directed to hold the clothing left in his hands, at the disposal of the officer commanding at the Highlands. This clothing being intended for the supply of the troops of the Massachusetts and New Hampshire lines and the detatchment of artillery at West-point, you will be pleased to call upon the commanding officers of these corps for exact returns of their deficiencies of clothing, and apportion the quantity in store to their respective wants, the state Cloathiers drawing it by yr order.
          I return the proceedings of the Court martial transmitted in your

letter of the 17th for your own approbation or disapprobation. The articles of war authorise the general officer commanding in either of the “American states for the time being” under a resolve of the 14th of April 1777 to decide in all such cases &c.
          I have to request that you will be particular in sending forward the monthly return of the state of the troops under your command. I am D. Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Johann Kalb, 21 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Kalb, Johann

            Dear Sir
            Head Quarters Morris town 21st March 1780.

          I have recd your favr of yesterday, inclosing a letter for General Greene, which I shall not deliver to him, as I know he has not at present the means of building the Boats you mention. I would therefore recommend to you, to put out the best of those which you may find in the several Rivers for the purpose of Guard Boats. Upon referring to and reconsidering your former letter upon this subject, I am of opinion that the stations which you then pointed out will be dangerous, so far as they respect the distance between Elizabeth town and Amboy—the sound there being so exceedingly narrow, that a Boat pushed suddenly from the opposite shore in the night would more than probably take ours—Besides I do not think we are to look for a descent in any considerable force from that quarter—The enemy have generally hitherto embarked either at Long Island or upon the farther side of Staten Island, and have come thro’ the Kilns and across New Ark Bay, thereby avoiding

all discovery from this shore, which they would be subject to any where between Elizabeth town and Amboy—New Ark Bay is therefore in my opinion the proper and the safe place for your Guard Boats to ply—It is of considerable extent and a fleet of Boats may be discovered either by their working, or by sight, sometime before their approach.
          We have found on repeated experiments that the inhabitants will not remove their stock untill the moment of danger—indeed at this season, they have no places to send them, where they can be supplied with food. I would therefore have you give as general information as is in your power, that an incursion of the enemy may be expected, and recommend to the people to drive back their stock, upon the first communication of an alarm.
          I do not think it probable that the Enemy will put their designs, if they have any, into execution while our Commissioners are sitting at Amboy, I mention this as a matter of opinion only, and would not wish you to relax your Vigilance on that account—You will no doubt have the signals in the ⟨ut⟩most state of preparation, and keep a small party stationed with the Alarm Guns below Chatham. I a[m] Dr sir Yrs &c.

            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Johann Christoph Koehler, 21 March 1780
From: Koehler, Johann Christoph
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Rutland [Mass.] 21st March 1780

          My bad State of health, which Since I came to this place has been daily improving puts me under the necessity of troubling Your Excellency wt. my present address.
          Sometime before I had the misfortune of becoming a prisoner of war, I made application to the Prince of Hesse for leave to return to Germany: His Royal Highness (in consideration of my long service for forty two years, & the want of health, which renders me incapable of active Service) will I have no doubt grant my request, & orders for that purpose, I am convinced have long or now been sent to New york.
          From the above motives, I presume to Solicit Your Excellency for

leave to go to New york on parole, and remain there, till such time as an Exchange for me takes place, or a Genl one is Settled.
          Lt Studenroth and Ensn Pa[u]li both officers belonging to the Same Regt wt. me, were taken prisoners wt. me last april, the former is my nephew, a young man, who has been always under my protection, & I wish if possible to bring along wt. me to Germany; Should Your Excellency think proper to attend to my requisition, including these two Gentlemen in the parole, will add greatly to the obligation.
          I take the liberty of inclosing a letter for Genl Knyphausen, which I request Your Excellency will order to be forwarded—I hope Your Excellency, will pardon me for the trouble I give, & impute it to my situation. I have the Honor to be Sir Your very obedt humble Servant

            J. C. Koehler Colonel of the Hessian Troops


Title: To George Washington from Officers of the New York Line, 21 March 1780
From: Officers of the New York Line
To: Washington, George

            Camp [Jockey Hollow, N.J.,]March 21. 1780
            May it please your Excellency

          The Officers of the New York Line being reduced to the last extremity for the want of Clothes; and as it will be some Months before the Supplies (which we are Informed) the State has Ordered can Arrive, beg your Excellency will please to order that such Articles of Clothing now in Store as can be spared be furnish’d us we paying for the Same and thereby much Oblige Your Excellencys most Obedient and Very Hume Servants

            Jonathan Hallett Capt. Commandtthe 2d N. York RegtIn behalf of the Officers of the Same
            Joseph McCraken MajorComadent of the 4knew yorkRegt In Behalf of the offocers
            J. F. Hamtramck Capt. Commdt 5th N.Y. RegtIn behalf of the officers of the Samme
            J. Gregg Cap. Commadant 3d N. York RegtIn behalf of the Officers of the same


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 22 March 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Morristown 22d March 1780

          I shall set out early in the morning for Philadelphia; but can plainly see, little is to be expected from it; unless it is dismissing my self from the Department; which I most devoutly wish, as well from what I discover from General Schuylers letter to your Excellency, as from what he relates to Doctor Cochran.
          I am very confident there is a party business going on again; and as Mifflin is connected with it, doubt nothing of its being a revival of the old s[c]heme: And the measures now taking is, to be prepard to take

advantage of any opening the distresses of the Army may introduce. I wish I may be mistaken, but symtoms strongly indicate such a disposition.
          From the present temper of Congress, I dont think it will be worth while to mention the matter of Waggoners, as there is not the least probability of obtaining an order for the purpose; and if I should, I have not the means to execute the business.
          I propose to take Col. Biddle to Philadelphia with me, that a clear, full, and particular representation may be made, of every branch of the Quarter Masters Department; and the whole be brought to a speedy issue. I am with great respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient humble Ser.

            Nath. Greene


Title: From George Washington to Philip Schuyler, 22 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

            Dear Sir,
            Hd Qrs Morris-town Mar. 22d 1780

          Your favor of the 7th of this Instt did not come to my hands before 9 o’clock last Night—It was accompanied by such a multitude of other letters (many of which required immediate attention) that it is not in my power—by General Greene, who sets out for Philadelphia in the morning—to give it such a perfect answer and approbation as I could wish; nor can I, on the other hand, consent to his departure without acknowledging of it, & thanking you for the trouble you have taken.
          Our Affairs seem to be verging so fast to a stagnation—in every branch—even provisions—that I have not only consented, but advised Genl Greene, as I shall do the Commissary ⟨w⟩hen he arrives, to repair to Philadelphia ⟨an⟩d endeavour to know with precission, what ⟨i⟩s to be depended on in their respective departments.
          The new system adopted by Congress for conducting the business of these departments may have originated from two causes—necessity, & choice—the first from inability (for want of money) to proceed any further in the old track—The second from a desire to change the old system on acct of the Commission, it being thought (& I fear with too much reason) exceedingly expensive, & disgustful to the People

at large—Under these ideas & impressions, I am embarrassed—and cautious of saying any thing on the subject, further than to give it as my opinion, that whatever System is adopted, it should be made as perfect as the nature of the thing will admit of—That this is not the case in many instances with the present one is obvious, as must appear to you upon a comparative view of the Plan—movements—& wants of an Army—In some instances, if literally adhered to, ruin must follow.
          I will embrace the first kind moment I have to write you more fully, in the meantime I pray you to be assured that I a⟨m,⟩ with every sentiment of the most perfect esteem & regard Dr Sir Yr affecte Hble Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Philip Schuyler, 22 March 1780
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

            My Dear Sir
            Philadelphia March 22d 1780

          Yesterday I had the happiness of Your Excellencys favor of the 18th Instant.
          I find by enquiry at the Office that my first letter was not forwarded by the Conveyance I Intended It should but was sent by a subsequent one, It is therefore probably by this time reached You.
          As Gen: Lincolns dispatch to you will probably contain what he has Communicated to Congress I thought It needless to trouble You with a Copy of the latter.
          I do not recollect If advised You that the propriety of a Conference with Your Excellency had A second time been Insisted on, and that the Same opinion as on the first was prevalent.
          Messrs Sherman and Jones are to morrow to report the System they In Conjunction with Gen: Mifflin & Mr Pickering have formed for Conducting the Civil departments of the Army. I am afraid (from what I

have learnt) It will not only be Inadequate but If adopted wound, or rather give additional Soreness to the wounds already given the Q:M:G. As I do not Concieve In our present Circumstances that any System however Judiciously Compiled can apply I shall do my endeavours So far to overturn the proposed one as that If even good, It shall only go as recommendatory, this may probably make some Attonement for the Indelicate Inattention which Gen: Greene has Experienced. I have Intreated him to take no hasty decided Step and have taken the liberty to point at the Consequences of a Change In that department at this Conjuncture.
          Communications on paper are more exposed from, than to the Army, It may therefore be proper for Characters In particular Situations not to be particular unless where there is the Greatest Certainty of safety In the Conveyance I mention this least You should attend from your politeness to more than I Expect, a bare Acknowledgment that a letter has been recevd will Suffice the friend. I am Dr Sir, most truly Your Excellency Obedient Hume Servant &c.

            Ph: Schuyler


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 22 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

            My Lord
            Head Quarters Morris Town 22d March 1780.

          Inclosed you will find an extract of a letter which I received yesterday from Governor Livingston, with twelve Copies of the Act for recruiting the number of Men therein mentioned. You will be pleased, in consequence of the Governor’s request, immediately to order as many Officers, as can possibly be spared from the Jersey line, to go upon the recruiting service, selecting such as are best acquainted with that duty, and who are supposed to have influence in the respective Counties—The Words of the Act are confined to “able bodied and effective Men” but I wish your Lordship to draw a set of additional instructions for the recruiting Officers, directing them not to inlist, under the above description, any Deserters from the Enemy; and letting them know, in very explicit terms, that the Recruits will, upon their arrival at Camp, be inspected by the Inspector General or one of the sub Inspectors, and, if they shall be found ruptured, or any ways unsound—too old or too young for the service, or in any manner unqualified for soldiers, that they shall be accountable, notwithstanding they may have been passed by the County Muster Masters appointed by the Act. I think this caution necessary, because it would not be a difficult matter to impose an improper Man upon a Gentleman in the Country, not well acquainted with or not very attentive to military matters.
          You will be pleased further to direct the Officers to send forward their Recruits to Camp in squads of five or six, as they obtain them. For which purpose, each Officer should take with him a non Commd Officer and one or two trusty Men to perform that duty—well dressed and well looking Men should be selected.
          Your Lordship will observe, by the Act, that a Bounty of one thousand dollars is to be paid to each Recruit inlisting for the War exclusive of the Continental Bounty and Emoluments, but that there may be no misconception or deception by the Officers or on the part of the Men, you are clearly to express, in the additional recruiting instructions, that the Continental Bounty and Emoluments only extend to Cloathing—Land—and such other benefits as may be hereafter allowed to soldiers serving during the War—In short—that one thousand Dollars is the whole Bounty in money which they are to expect. And the Officer is to

be informed that the two hundred dollars Bounty allowed to him for each Recruit is to include, and to be considered by him as a compensation for his trouble and expence.
          Officers of Militia are, under the Act, allowed to recruit Men, and it is therefore necessary that they should be apprized of the Bounty in Money. The best way, in my opinion, for communicating this, is, for the Continental Officers, upon their arrival in the several Counties, to shew their instructions to the County Muster Masters, and County pay Masters, and request them to communicate the substance of them to the Officers of the Militia.
          I shall be obliged by your Lordship’s favoring me with a Copy of the instructions which you deliver to the Officers, that I may file them with my papers. I am with great Regard Yr Lordships most obt Servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 22 March 1780
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Lebanon [Conn.] 22nd March 1780

          I consider it as a matter of very great importance for this as well as every State to raise and furnish immediately their quota of recruits for the confederate army: and am unhappy that we have made no greater progress in it already.
          The Assembly of this State have ordered Colo. John Chandler to repair to the army under your command and reengage as many as possible of our soldiers whose terms are near expiring—We give 300 Dollars premium in addition to the Continental Bounty—Enlistments are also ordered to be made through the State as fast as possible—we appoint enlisting officers for that purpose—But consider that such officers, strangers to the service themselves, must be unacquainted and unfurnished with arguments, suggestions and address to influence persons of the character proper for soldiers, in any measure equal to many alert, ingenuous, active and insinuating officers, perhaps of low commissions & serjeants engaged for the war and belonging to this State.
          This is therefore, by the consideration and advice of my Council to request Your Excellency would be pleased, if consistent with your arrangements, to send into this State as soon as may be practicable 50 or 60 such officers, belonging to this State, of different towns and places best calculated to engage recruits for the service—to be furnished with money for bounties by the recruiting officers appointed to recive the same in the several Counties within this State—and to take such directions from time to time as may be needful from me or other superior officers.
          It is conceived that persons who are acting and sharing in all the services, fatigues and honors to which they are inviting others, and with whom the soldiers may be acquainted &c. are much more likely to succeed in the business than any other persons we can employ as I before hinted. If Your Excellency should agree to the proposal I should take it as a favor to receive your answer as soon as may be by one of the officers you shall send for the service requested—The season is so far advanced that I wish (I dare say with Your Excellency) to lose no time in forwarding the business. I have the Honor to be with the highest Sentiments of Esteem Your Excellencys Most Obedient and very humble servant

            Jonth; Trumbull

            P.S. just received your Favour of the 26th of last month.


Title: General Orders, 23 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown thursday March 23rd 1780.
            Parole Equanimity—  C. Signs Fame. Favor.

          A Subaltern officer from General Hand’s brigade is to be sent to Pluckemin tomorrow to superintend the Hospital there in place of Lieutenant Leonard.
          By a General Court Martial of the line held by order of His Excellency the Commander in Chief the 23rd day of February last—Colonel Humpton President.
          Major James Moore of the 1st Pennsylvania regiment was tried on the following charges.
          First—“Unofficerlike behaviour, in leaving camp for upwards of twenty days, when he had only leave of absence for two or three days, which has a tendency to subvert good order and military discipline.”
          Second—“Ungentlemanlike behaviour in promising to return to camp before General Irvine was relieved, and not acting agreeable to his promise.”
          Third—“Breaking his arrest.”
          Fourth—“Speaking in a very dishonorable and disrespectful manner of Congress.”
          Fifth—“Speaking in a very dishonorable and disrespectful manner of the Commander in Chief and Generals of our army,” and plead not guilty.
          The Court having considered the 1st charge against Major Moore and the evidence, are of opinion that Majr Moore had leave of absence from camp for two or three days; that he stayed away from camp much longer, and that his conduct in that instance is unjustifiable, unofficerlike and has a tendency to subvert good order and military discipline, and a breach of article 5th section 18th of the rules and articles of war: They are of opinion that Majr Moore is guilty of the second charge exhibited against him which they consider a breach of article 5th section 18th of

the Rules and Articles of War—The Court do acquit Major Moore of the 3rd charge exhibited against him.
          The Court having fully consider’d the 4th charge against Major Moore are of opinion that in a conversation that took place at West-Point last fall between Col. Chambers and Majr Moore, Major Moore expressed himself in a dishonorable & disrespectful manner of the conduct of Congress, but as his expressions do not affect their authority, they consider his conduct in this instance as a breach of Article 5th section 18th of the rules and articles of War.
          The Court do fully and clearly acquit Major Moore of the last charge exhibited against him.
          The Court do sentence Major Moore to be reprimanded in general orders.
          The General is happy in the acquittal of Major Moore on the 3rd and 5th charges exhibited against him, and particularly so in his acquittal on the last of them, which he is sorry was ever made a matter of public discussion—He wishes that the evidence offered in the course of the trial would have justified the Court in a similar determination as to the others; but Major Moore’s conduct, with respect to the leave of absence he obtained and the manner of using it—also on the subject comprehended in the 4th article of charge, severally appears to have been extremely reprehensible—He is releas’d from his Arrest.
          By a General Court Martial of the line held by order of His Excellency the Commander in Chief the 9th day of March 1780—Colonel Humpton President.
          Lieutenant Colonel Robinson of the 1st Pennsylvania regiment charged with, “Unofficerlike behavior in leaving camp for upwards of twenty days when he had only leave of absence for two or three days, which has a tendency to subvert good order and military discipline,” was tried & plead not guilty.
          The Court having considered the charge against Lieutt Colonel Robinson and evidence are of opinion, That Lieutt Colonel Robinson had leave of absence from camp for a few days and that he staid away much longer than he was authorized to do by the leave of absence that he obtained, which conduct they consider unofficerlike and having a tendency to subvert good order and military discipline, and a breach of article 5th section 18th of the rules and Articles of War and do sentence him to be reprimanded in General orders.
          It appears to the General that Lieut. Col. Robinson exceeded the indulgence of absence granted him by Colonel Chambers even according to the extent of it as interpreted by Major Moore, who obtained it for

him, and that his conduct was justly censurable—He is released from Arrest.
          By a General Court Martial of the line held by order of His Excellency the Commander in Chief the 13th day of March, Colonel Humpton President.
          Lieutenant Colonel Hay, charged with, “Granting an illegal permit to John Van Winkle, James Collard, Elijah Crain and Thomas Saffron with two sleighs and horses to pass to Bergen Town and return with two ladies unmolested; and for insulting Ensign Rogers in the execution of his duty”—was tried and plead not guilty.
          The Court having considered the charges exhibited against Lieutenant Colonel Hay and the evidence are of opinion, That he granted an illegal permit, as charged, which they consider a breach of Article 5th Section 18th of the Rules and Articles of War—They are of opinion the part of the charge of insulting Ensign Rogers in the execution of his duty is not supported.
          They do sentence Lieutenant Colonel Hay to be reprimanded in general orders.
          The General approves the sentence—Lieut. Col. Hay not having the command on the lines in the quarter where he was, had no right to grant the permit he did; as Bergen town was out of our lines and within, or very contiguous to, those of the enemy; At the same time the General is perfectly satisfied that in doing it he was actuated merely by humane and benevolent motives to facilitate the return home of two ladies on their way from New-York, where they had been permitted to go, and who it appears required assistance—He is released from arrest.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 23 March 1780
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Philadelphia March 23. 1780

          Enclosed your Excellency will receive an Act of Congress of the 21st Instant recommending to the Governments of the several States to suspend making new Appointments of Officers in the regiments of their respective Lines except where the Commander in Chief or Commanding Officer in the southern Department shall deem such Appointment indispensibly necessary. I have the honour to be with sincere Esteem & respect your Excy’s hble servant

            Sam. Huntington President


Title: From George Washington to Major General Johann Kalb, 23 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Kalb, Johann

            Dr Sir
            Head Quarters Morristown 23d March 1780

          I have to acknowlege your favor of yesterday written at half past 11 at night.
          Whatever may be the real object of the enemy, I make no doubt but your vigilance and precautions, should their operations be directed against you, or this way, will obviate any misfortune which they might intend. As an alarm can be conveyed to this ground, in the shortest space of time by the firing of the alarm State cannon, I wish you to take such measures for this purpose as you may judge proper.
          It is mentioned in the information that horse vessels were fitted up. I should be pleased to have it ascertained, whether they are of such a kind as may be employed in a voyage, or for the transportation of horse to a distant part of the Continent. I would also like to know what number of boats appear to be a constructing, and what exertions are used to complete them. It is not improbable but that both horse and boats are much wanted for the Southward. I am Dr Sir

            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from the Maryland Council, 23 March 1780
From: Maryland Council
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Annapolis March 23d 1780.

            In Council
            We have had the honor of receiving your Excellency’s Letters of the 19th & 20th Ultimo and 10th of the Current Month, with their several enclosures, every of which shall be immediately laid before the Honorable General Assembly now about to meet.
            The Recruiting Officers in this State have not had the success We Wished, Yet they have procured a sufficient number to lessen our deficiency considerably, and should the Legislature continue our Recruiting Act Six or Eight Weeks beyond the time limited for its duration, We have reason to expect our Quota will be nearly if not entirely compleat in that Space. We have the Honor to be with Sentiments of the most profound Personal respect esteem & Attachment Your Excellencys Most Humble Servants

              Tho. Sim Lee


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Goose Van Schaick, 23 March 1780
From: Van Schaick, Goose
To: Washington, George

            Albany March 23rd 1780

          Since I had the honor of writing your Excellency last, I have been informed by the Officer who Commands the Militia in Tryon County that a party of Indians have on the 15th Instant made five of the inhabitants in the upper part of that County prisoners, killed one, & burnt a House.
          I have last evening been informd by the Officer at Fort Edward, that the Guard consisting of thirteen Militia posted at Skeensborough, were on the 21st Instant surprised & made prisoners by a large body of Indians. Governour Clinton when he was last in Albany ordered Skeensborough to be Guarded by forty Men, notwithstanding it appears from the account I received that their was but thirteen Men at that Post at the time the surprise happened. Your Excellencies most Obedt Humble servant

            G: V. Schaick


Title: General Orders, 24 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown Friday March 24th 1780.
            Parole Felicity—  C. Signs Glory. Gordon.

          The officer commanding on the Lines is directed in case of any sudden and serious movement of the enemy in that quarter to caus[e] the Alarm Gun on the heights above Springfield to be fired; This is to be answered by the Alarm Guns in camp upon which the brigades are to form—on their respective parades and wait orders: As it may happen that the Alarm Gun above Springfield may be heard by some of the camp guards whose situation may render them more accessible to the sound, and not by the party with the Alarm-Guns in camp, the officers commanding those guards will send immediate information thereof by a trusty serjeant to the officer stationed at the guns.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Johnson, 24 March 1780
From: Johnson, Jonathan
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir,
            Springfield [N.J.] 24th March 80

          as Capt. Josiah Lacey of the 5th Connecticut Regiment has mad[e] Application to me for Leave of Absence on account of the Destres’d Circumstances of his Family by reason of Sickness Considering the Late orders given by Your Excellency prohibiting Either Officer or Soldier to be absent on Furlough after the first of april next Consider my Selfe not authoris’d to grant him Leave of absence.
          but would Recommend him to Your Excellency for Leave of absence if Consistant with Your Excellencys pleasure. I am Sir with Sentiments of Esteem Your Excellencys most Obedient Humble Servt

            Jonathan Johnson Lut. Colo. Comdat of 2d Brigade


Title: To George Washington from Major General Johann Kalb, 24 March 1780
From: Kalb, Johann
To: Washington, George

            sir
            springfield [N.J.] march 24th 1780.

          At a turn I took yesterday Evening to Visit the Posts on the right, I was informed at Woodbridge that Mr Randal of Said Town had an account from Staten Island, of 12 flat Bottomed Boats being arrived there from New york, destination not known and that Several Gallies fell down from N. York to Prince’s Bay.
          During the Night I received Your Excellency’s letter of yesterday.
          all I can learn about the preparations of the Enemy Seems to be levelled against our army here, and nothing like an embarkation for the Southward, I hope they Will not Surprise any of our Posts.
          I herewith inclose a letter from Colonel Saml Hay. the four Prisoners, three of which are Anspackers, I will Send to Head Q. under Escort.
          another letter form Capt. Prior—Commanding at Newark.
          The Prisoners tell me that the Party at Hackensack to which they belonged, was to return to New york af[t]er Burning Sundry Buildings, that they had neither Baggage nor Provisions with them.
          I will take care to convey the earliest intelligence to Your Excellency of any movements of the Enemy. I have the honor to be with great Respect Your Excellencys Most obedient and most humble servant

            The Baron de Kalb


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 24 March 1780
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

            My dear General,
            Chas Town [S.C.] March 24th 1780

          Since my last the enemy have very unexpectedly brought over the ships mentioned in the enclosed paper—it has been thought there was not water enough for a 64 gun ship—Before they came into the harbour it was determined to form a line of battle across the channel with our ships, to act in conjunction with Fort Moultrie—but afterwards, as the enemy were so vastly superior to our force, it was thought best to remove our ships up to the Town in Cooper-river, land their heavy cannon and men—We are endeavouring to obstruct the channel from the Town to Shute’s-folly—if we should succeed great good will result from the measure as thereby we shall prevent the enemy from running up that river, and cutting off our communication with the country on the east.
          The enemy are extending their works on Ashley river from the mouth of Wappoo with a design to cover their stores which they can land near the first work at the mouth of the Creek, and remove them a mile or two across land to the head of another creek, which empties into the Ashley, where they have a work also, which is opposite a good landing on this side—I think they will throw their troops across above, take post at this landing, and then transport their stores, which will save them a very long land carriage.

          I lament most sincerely that from the want of a sufficient power, we cannot oppose their passing this river, which might easily be effected, and oblige the enemy to take a circuit of forty miles—General Woodford is not yet arrived—By his letter of the 6th instant, he informs me that his troops would leave Petersburgh the day after—his numbers by some means or other are greatly reduced—by his return he has 737 only fit for action—General Scott informs me that he is coming on without the remainder of his troops—want of clothing is the cause—a few of them have been persuaded to take care of Genl Woodford’s baggage.
          Many of the No. Carolina Militia, whose times have expired leave us to-day, they cannot be persuaded to remain longer tho’ the enemy are in our neighbourhood.
          General McIntosh received a few days since a resolve of Congress, founded on a letter from the Governor of Georgia and one from the Speaker of the Assembly of that State, purporting that he had lost the confidence of the people, in which resolve he is suspended from acting in the southern department—I have not only to lament the loss of so good an Officer—but that Congress have so suddenly come into a resolution which must wound the feelings of an old servant of the United States, and who by the War is reduced from a State of great affluence to that but a little removed from beggary—He has the command of the Country Militia of this State now in Garrison. I have the honor to be My Dear General with the highest esteem your Excellency most Obedient servant

            B: Lincoln


Title: To George Washington from John Mathews, 24 March 1780
From: Mathews, John
To: Washington, George

            Sir,
            Philadelphia March 24th 1780

          Mr Kinloch One of the Delegates of South Carolina arrived here yesterday in Twenty three days, from that place. He says the British troops, were in the same position as on the 25 of February, (as your Excy has already been informed). Genl Hogan had arrived with the No. Carolina Brigade. Genl Woodford on the 11 Inst. was 380 miles distant from Chs Town Genl Scott, had at last proceeded for that place alone. The troops that were under his Command remained at Petersburg without the least appearance of moving. The lines of Chs Town were compleated, & the harbour well secured by a respectable Naval armament, & wanted

nothing to render it almost impregnable, but a larger body of men, than they then had, or had any prospect of soon obtaining, for it’s defence. It was the general opinion when he came away, that the enemy had met with material losses at Sea, either in men, or some of their capital Store ships, which caused their inactivity, as they had been possessed of the principal part of the ground they then occupied For twenty one days. Genl Lincoln commanded in Chs Town, & Genl Moultrie at a post—24 miles from the town (Bacon’s bridge, an important pass on Ashley river) with a body of between 400 & 500 horse, & a few Infantry.
          The inactivity of the enemy in So. Carolina & the arrival of the Roebuck, with the transports from thence, at New York, seems to countenance the opinion, of the enemy’s being unprepared for an attack, & which may probably not take place before the return of those Ships from N: York. In this event it will give time for the Virginia troops to get up, which will be a most fortunate circumstance. I thought it advisable to give Your Excy this information as it may lead to your obtaining some usefull intelligence from a certain quarter. I have the Honour to be with great respect Yr Excys most Obedt servt

            Jno. Mathews


Title: General Orders, 25 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown saturday March 25th 1780.
            Parole Habergeon—  C. Signs Hamlet. Hut.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Robert Howe, 25 March 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

            Dear Sir
            Highlands [N.Y.] 25th of March 1780

          I am anxious to know the Result of the Enemy’s Enterprize against Paramus—the Alarm reach’d me the Day it happened, & I sent out Persons to learn the Particulars who are not yet return’d. I was witheld from writing to your Excellency upon the Subject from the Certainty that you must have heard of it sooner than I did, & because no Opportunity offered, & I had no Express ready.
          Your Excellency’s Favour of the 21st reach’d me the Day before yesterday—I shall pursue it’s Instructions with all possible Punctuality. Our Party below have taken several of that infamous Banditti who have been infesting the Inhabitants. One or two of them are Liable to Court Martial for Capital Offences, & as the Articles sent me up, give me a Power to finish the Matter, your Excellency’s Humanity (should the Court determine against them) shall not be wounded by the painfull Task of signing their Death Warrant.
          I inclose your Excellency an Affirmation against the Person mention’d in it, who is now in Irons & under Guard—if Credit is to be given to what he said, the Enemy have Views of operating here.
          I have had no Answer from Governor Clinton which gives me both Surprize & Anxiety—Col. Hay conjectures that my Letters miss’d him as they went to Albany, & he might have been set out for Poughkepsie. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect, & Regard Dear Sir your most obedient Humble Servant

            Robert Howe


Title: To George Washington from Lewis Pintard, 25 March 1780
From: Pintard, Lewis
To: Washington, George

            Baskenridge [N.J.]25th March 1780
            May it please your Excellency

          Having been permitted to come out of New York, for the purpose of settling my Accounts with the Commissary Genl of Prisoners; I beg leave to improve the Opportunity, by Addressing your Excellency on the disagreeable Circumstances attending my particular Situation—It is now three years since I was Honored with your Excellency’s Appointment, to superintend the Affairs of the American Prisoners in New York; and accordingly went into that City, and in consequence of your Letters to His Excellency Genl Howe for permission to continue there for this Purpose, was barely permitted to receive & distribute whatever was sent into the British Lines for the Use of said Prisoners—the Restrictions under which I received this permission, and those that have been Adding to them ever since, have not only prevented me from Exe⟨cuting⟩ the Purposes of Humanity that I had in View, & could had wished to have done; but have exposed me to the most dangerous & disagreable Consequences Imaginable.
          Nothwithstanding the most careful Circumspection and exact attention to every part of my Conduct, yet such have been the extreme Jealousies & Envy of the Inhabitants of the City, that I have been considered as a Person of the most dangerous Principles to the Safety of the City, as a spy and common Enemy of the British Government, and indeed every Necessary Act of Humanity & Duty that I have shewn to the Prisoners, tho Strictly within my permission, has been represented as arising from some setled plan, Ruinous to their best Interest—I have been put entirely under the Controul & Direction of Mr Loring, & therefore Subject to his Caprice & Humour, and not being considered as acting in any Publick Character, have been treated by him with the Utmost Insolence & Contempt. in short such have been the treatment & Contempt that I have suffered for three years past, without the least Reason given ⟨for⟩ it on my Part, and that as far as I can discover ⟨c⟩hiefly for want of Acting in a Publick acknowledged Character, that I cannot Possibly any longer submit to it, especially as I am conscious I have Acted with the Utmost attention to the Line of Conduct prescribed for me—I must therefore beg the favour of your Excellency’s appointing some Other person in my Room to take Charge of the American Prisoners in New York and as I have a Real Estate in New Jersey, and am Conscious my remaining in New York, however Innocent my Conduct may be, will still expose me to the Envy & Jealousy of the Citizens, as a Person dangerous to the Peace of that City, shall I beg your Excellency’s interposition & Influence with

the Commander of the British Forces, to suffer me with my Family & Effects to retire to my Farm here, as I am confident it will give greater Satisfaction to the Citizens of New York & prevent the unjust suspicions that Otherwise will arise against me & render my Life there extremely unhappy. I have the Honor to be with great Esteem & Regard your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

            Lewis Pintard


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 25 March 1780
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

            In Council of Pennsylvania [Philadelphia]March 25 1780.
            Sir

          I have the Honour of inclosing you a Memorial from the Officers of Artillery in Col. Proctors Regiment: With the Proceeding of the Council thereupon. And am with great Respect & Regard Your Excellys most Obed. & very Hbble serv.

            Jos: Reed President


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 25 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

            Dr Sir
            Head Quarters Morristown 25th March 1780

          I have to acknowlege two favors from your Excellency, both of the 10th of this month.
          I flatter myself that the measures of the Assembly for recruiting the quota of troops, and bringing them into the field, will fully answer your Excellency’s expectations. I am persuaded, that for such an essential purpose, nothing will be left undone.
          That part of your Excellency’s letter which relates to the obstructions

that oppose both the raising and purchasing of cattle is very interesting. You are not unacquainted with our difficulties heretofore, to keep the army together, and at the same time preserve it from starving. We are still in the most dependent and precarious situation in this respect. I flatter myself, however, that the late system of finance adopted by congress, by giving the old money a fixt value, and providing the exchequer with new, which is to have the same consideration as specie, will obviate those embarrassments and difficulties with which we have struggled⟨.⟩ This and the measures recommended by congress to furnish the army with supplies, assisted by the exertions of the respective States, I trust will have a salutary operation, and give to our affairs in general a more agreeable countenance. I am happy in the opinion, that there is no system which has the public good for its object, but will receive your utmost protection, and be forwarded by every means in your Excellency’s power. I have the honor to be with the greatest regard, Dr Sir Your Excellency’s most obe. & hble servt

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel James Wood, 25 March 1780
From: Wood, James
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            Charlotteville [Va.] 25th March 1780.

          I have the Honor of Inclosing your Excellency, the Proceedings of a General Court Martial held at this Post Yesterday; I wou’d beg leave to Add, that the Prisoner La Brun was enlisted but a few Days before he Deserted, Appears extremely Ignorant, and is in My Opinion, an Object worthy of Mercy. I am with the Greatest respect. Yr Excellency’s Very Obt Servt

            James Wood. Colo. Commandant


Title: General Orders, 26 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Morristown sunday March 26th [1780]
            Parole Hymen—  C. Signs Jupiter. Juno.

          The regimental surgeons are to send as usual to the Flying Hospital for stores for the sick and are to be punctual in making their weekly returns on mondays agreeable to general orders.
          By a General Court Martial held in the City of Philadelphia by order of the Honorable Board of War Jany 24th 80—Colonel White President, Captain Lieutenant Theophilus Parke was tried for, “Defrauding his men of their pay and bounty”—and plead not guilty.
          The Court were of opinion that Captn Lieut. Theophilus Parke has not only been guilty of defrauding his men of their pay and bounty, but of repeated forgeries in signing several of the names of the evidences

soldiers in his company for their pay and bounty, without their knowledge or consent.
          The Court unanimously found Captain Lieutenant Parke guilty not only of fraud but of repeated Forgeries and sentenced him to be cashiered with infamy, by having his sword broke over his head on the public parade in the front of the regiment to which he belongs by the Adjutant of the said regiment, and it is the opinion of the court from the scandalous, infamous and villainous conduct of Captn Lieutt Parke that he is unworthy of ever holding any post civil or military in the United States—Agreeable to the 22nd article, section 14th of the Articles of War, the charge and sentence be published in the News-Papers of the State of Pennsylvania—The charge of fraud being fully proved against Captn Lieutt Parke, the General confirms the sentence & directs its execution.
          By a General Court Martial held by order of the honorable the Board of War at Philadelphia the ninth day of March instant, Lieutt Colonel Williams President—Lieutenant Anthony Wright of Colonel Flowers regiment of Artillery Artificers was tried on the following charges (viz.).
          1st “For runing in debt to private matrosses,[”] and—2nd “For ungentlemanlike behavior in drinking at public houses with soldiers at their expence[”]—3rd “For going to a dance at night at the soldiers houses without their invitation and playing cards the same night with private soldiers[”]—4th “For beating and abusing two Matrosses in a barbarous and inhuman manner when under arms on the fifth instant[”]—5th “For borrowing a pair of shoes from a Matross & not returning them or giving him any satisfaction”—and plead “Not guilty.”
          The Court after duly considering the evidence for and against the Prisoner with his defence do acquit him of the 1st and 4th charges—but find him guilty of the 2nd, 3rd & 5th charges being a breach of the 21st article of the 14th section of the Articles of War and do sentence him to be dismissed the service—The Commander in Chief approves the sentence.
          [ ] Crudick and Thomas Sheehan of Col. Lamb’s regimt Roger Taylor, [⟨] Burt, Francis Pritchard, John Parcels, Alexr Ross of Col. Crane’s regiment and Samuel Gaylie of Lieutt Col. Willet’s regiment are to be sent immediately to the Quarter Master General’s to assist in making tents.


Title: Circular to the States, 26 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

            Sir
            Head Quarters Morris Town March 26th 1780.

          Your Excellency will have received I presume before this, a Transcript of an Act of Congress of the 25th of last Month calling on the several

States for specific quantities of provision—Rum & Forage for the Army, and directing the Articles of supplies to be collected & deposited at such places in each of the States, as should be judged most convenient by me. In the case of a defensive war like ours, which depends almost wholly upon the movements & operations of the Enemy, it is difficult if not impracticable, to fix on places of deposit for Stores, which may not be rendered improper by subsequent events & all we can do upon such occasions is, to collect them where it shall appear from a comparative view of circumstances, that they will be probably secure and most likely to facilitate the purposes intended. I have considered the point with respect to the supplies required of Your State and I beg leave to inform Your Excellency, that it appears to me, they should be deposited at the following places—Viz.
          Providence 18,621 Gallons of Rum. As to the beef—the time & place of delivery & the proportion from time to time must of necessity be governed by the occasional requisitions of the Commissary General, which must also be the case with respect to the Salt & it’s ultimate place of deposit: and as to the Hay—the collection of it to depend on those of the Quarter Master General, who will communicate his requisitions from time to time, as the probability of it’s being wanted shall make it necessary. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt st

            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant William Colfax, 26 March 1780
From: Colfax, William
To: Washington, George

            Sir
            26th day March 1780

          I am sorry I have occasion to address your Excellency on a subject so disagreeable to me; or draw your attention from Objects of greater importance.
          Major Gibbs has inform’d me, that my conduct was such, in his absence, as has incur’d your Exclys displeasure. my surprise can only be equalled by my concern; I hope I may be able to remove every impression of that Nature.
          Conscious of having done my duty, and presuming on your Exellency’s goodness, I have ventered to exculpate myself from those Charges which have been alledg’d against me; as injurious and without foundation. I have uniformly endeavoure’d, in Major Gibbs’s Absence, to do every thing that appertain’d to him when present; & never refused to give every necessary order, or assistance to the Stewart when required. That I ever sent away a servant with a Damn; Alledging that the affairs of the family wa⟨s⟩ out of my Line of Duty; in justice to myself I am constrain’d to assert, is a willfull falsehood—Your Excellency’s personal request’s, I not only chearfully went about them, but always felt a sensible pleasure in those services.
          I had rather have subjected myself to the inconveni[e]nces inseperable from my present Duty in not keeping a horse; than to have experienced that indulgence, which I could but think myself intitled to, & draw on me Censure, Corps not larger than this, have recieved from the public the Emoluments given to P. Master—Adjts—& Q. Masters—exclusive of forrage. I have been of no burthen to the public but that of forrage for a Horse; & without this priveledge it will be very inconvenient & almost impossible to do the several duties. these circumstances might not have occur’d to your Excely in the conference with Major Gibbs: but if the impropri[e]ty should remain, I will send my Horse home, or from Camp imediately.
          The Close of the ensuing Campaign may put a period to my service; And as it has been my Ambition to serve with a degree of reputation, so it would be my wish to leave it without once merriting the frowns of the Comdr in Chief. I have the Honor to be Your Exelys Most Obedt Hble servant

            Wm Colfax


Title: To George Washington from the Commissioners for the Exchange of Prisoners, 26 March 1780
From: Commissioners for the Exchange of Prisoners
To: Washington, George

              Morris Town March 26th 1780

            To His Excellency George Washington Esqr. General and Commander in Chief of the Forces of The United States of America.
            We The Commissioners appointed by Your Excellency “to treat, confer, determine and conclude upon a General Cartel for the exchange and accommodation of prisoners of war—including the troops of The Convention of Saratoga and all matters whatsoever which might be properly contained therein” beg leave to report.
            That persuant to Your Excellency’s instructions, we met Major General Philips The Honorable Lt Col. Gordon and Lt Col. Norton, commissioners on the part of His Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton, at Amboy, the 9th instant, and the day following had an interview with them on the subject for which we were respectively deputed.
            That we found the powers of The British Commissioners liable to the same objections which had frustrated all former endeavours to settle a general Cartel; and were compelled, as well from the express tenor of our own powers as from the indispensable nature of the objections themselves to decline a negotiation for which on their side there was no sufficient authority. Your Excellency will perceive by the annexed copy of Sir Henry Clinton’s commission, that he acknowleges no power from His Britannic Majesty as the basis of the proposed treaty, and the subjoined minutes of the proceedings will show substantially what passed in the conference upon this subject. We omitted there an objection which we occasionally made in the course of conversation to the caption of The British powers.
            We think it unnecessary to detail here the reasons assigned for our objections, as we deem them too evident to need elucidation and as most of them have been stated, on former occasions, in the strongest and clearest manner by Your Excellency’s commissioners. But we cannot forbear remarking how extraordinary it must appear that such repeated attempts have been made to establish a Treaty the ostensible operation of which is to extend through the war, while its real one must at best be limited to the continuance of a particular officer in command, having no other support than his personal faith and personal influence.

            While we lament that our commission has not had an issue answerable to its humane intention and to Your Excellency’s wishes, we shall be happy to find our conduct meets your approbation.

              Ar. St Clair Mr GlEd. Carrington Lt Colo. ArtyAlex. Hamilton L. Col.


Title: Enclosure: Minutes of Prisoner Exchange Negotiations, 10–14 March 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Carrington, Edward,St. Clair, Arthur
To:

              [Perth Amboy, N.J., 10–14 March 1780]

              Amboy March 10th 1780.
              Minutes of the proceedings of the Commissioners, on the part of His Excellency General Washington and of His Excellency General sir Henry Clinton.
              The Commissioners being met, agree to the following preliminaries.
              That copies of the powers should be interchanged, and they were interchanged accordingly.
              That the limits of the neutral ground should extend three miles round Amboy, that Town being accounted the Center.
              That two British Dragoons be stationed at the ferry opposite on Staten Island for the purpose of forwarding expresses and that no molestation be given by either party to any express, that may be sent from the Commissioners to either respective Head Quarters.
              It is agreed upon that if any controversial points should arise, they might be debated upon, and the opinion on them given on the following day.
              The hours of meeting to be at Eleven oClock in the morning, and to adjourn at Three oClock.
              Agreed to adjourn till tomorrow saturday March 11th.

              Amboy March 11th 1780.
              The conference was resumed.
              The Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton, having entered upon the business of the Negotiation, proceeded to examine the powers vested by General Washington in his Commissioners; and find them to

be fully adequate for the purposes for which the Commission is met, and are therefore, willing and desirous to enter on the business of a General Cartel and General exchange.
              The Commissioners from General Washington then delivered the minute subjoined.
              The Commissioners on the part of His Excellency General Washington having examined the powers produced by the Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton, are sorry to find them essentially defective, professing the settlement of a General Cartel and General Exchange, on no other foundation than the private faith of the present Commander in Cheif, whereas they think an agreement of such importance and intended to have a permanent operation can have no sufficient basis without the sanction of national authority and national faith. They therefore and as their powers expressly require them to treat on these terms, are obliged to decline all negotiation unless the Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton can be vested with more ample powers in which case they would be happy to give their concurrence in a Cartel of the most equitable liberal and generous nature.
              The Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton delivered the following paper in answer to the foregoing objections to their powers.
              The Commissioners from His Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton are under the greatest concern at the unexpected objections made to the powers under which they act by the Commissioners from General Washington; They decline entering upon any political discussion on the matter but declare themselves of the opinion that their powers seem to them to go fully to a negotiation for a General Cartel and General Exchange.
              Impressed with the strongest feelings of humanity for the suffering Prisoners on both sides, they have declared and do declare themselves ready to enter upon a negotiation for a General Exchange, wishing to persue that local operation, provided the more extensive plan of a General Cartel cannot be effected, and to do so under every description of humanity, liberality and justice.
              If the Commissioners from General Washington are not vested with powers for entering upon a General Exchange it is to be extremely lamented, but the Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton must be excused for not admitting it possible that any mistake should arise in the object of the proposals sent in to General Washington, signed by Major General Phillips, and Colonels Magaw and Mathews, Lieutenant Colonels Ely and Ramsay, and approved of by Sir Henry Clinton: It must be allowed those proposals go pointedly and directly to a General Exchange to be settled upon the faith of the Commanders in Cheif of the British and American Armies, not meaning however to exclude the

intention of a General Cartel, supposing it possible to effect so good a purpose.
              The Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton beg leave to assure those from General Washington, how unhappy they are to find that they conceive their instructions given them by General Washington to be of such a nature as to debar them from entering upon the business for which purpose the meeting has been held at Amboy.
              The Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton conceiving the powers vested in them by His Excellency to be fully adequate to answer the end of adjusting either a General Exchange of Prisoners or of settling a General Cartel, have now only to lament that their wishes and endeavours prompted by humanity alone to releive persons who have so long suffered in captivity, should have failed of success.
              The Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton desire to express their great satisfaction at having met Gentlemen of liberal principles and who have seemed to be equally disposed with themselves to promote the humane purpose of giving relief to captivity, did they presume that their powers were adequate to their wishes.
              Adjourned till tomorrow Sunday March 12th.

              Amboy March 12th 1780
              The Conference was resumed, and the Commissioners from General Washington produced the following paper.
              The Commissioners on the part of His Excellency General Washington sincerely unite with those of His Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton, in lamenting that the purpose of the present meeting acknowledged to be infinitely interesting to humanity, is unhappily defeated like all the former by a fundamental defect in the powers of the British Commissioners. They cannot however imagine how the objections now made could have been unexpected, as they are obvious and conclusive in themselves and have been uniformly insisted upon on every similar occasion—with no new motive to depart from them, but with many additional ones to adhere to them. They omit a repetition of the reasonings which they have urged in conversation in their support, as the British Commissioners decline “political discussion.” They agree in opinion with these Gentlemen, that their powers seem to go fully to a General Cartel and General Exchange, but it is on this very account they object to them, because they have an ostensible object without the essential characters to make that object practicable.
              The object of the powers on both sides being a General Cartel, and this being impossible for the reasons assigned, the Commissioners from General Washington conceive that neither they nor the Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton have any authority to enter into a partial or particular agreement, and that therefore as well as for other still more

important considerations, they cannot with propriety treat of a General Exchange distinct from a General Cartel. Any such transaction must be independent of the Commission, consequently merely of a private nature and without validity. They beg leave to observe that General Sir Henry Clinton’s powers connect the General Cartel and General Exchange together—and do not make them alternatives, of course do not warrant the seperation now proposed.
              The Commissioners from General Washington believe that the design of the proposals mentioned by Sir Henry Clinton’s Commissioners has not been misunderstood. But these proposals only made a part of the transactions which produced the present meeting. The letter from General Washington to Colonels Mathews, Ely and Ramsay, while it acknowledges that as far as the proposals go, they are generally upon just and liberal principles, clearly intimates that they do not comprehend every thing necessary, and only considers them as capable of being improved into an agreement of mutual and permanent advantage. His letter of the 29th of February to His Excellency Lieutenant General Knyphausen expressly designates the purpose of the meeting to be “to negotiate a General Cartel.” General Knyphausen’s letter in reply literally consents to that purpose. The powers of the British Commissioners profess the same—It was expected that aware of the difficulties which had before existed, and which were evidently not to be surmounted on our part, the Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton would come with powers not liable to the same substantial objections, which had prevented the efficacy of all former attempts.
              Flattered by the favourable opinion, which the Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton are polite enough to express of their principles and dispositions, the Commissioners from General Washington take pleasure in declaring, that they on their part have the highest sense of the liberality and humanity of the Gentlemen with whom they have the honour to confer. They are firmly persuaded, that the insufficiency of their powers is the sole impediment to the success of the negotiation, and that had there not been this impediment the endeavours would have been mutually sincere towards giving the desired relief. The Commissioners from General Washington feel the deepest regret at being obliged to return without having accomplished the end of their mission—the more so as this effort failing seems to leave little prospect that any future can succeed. So far however from being sensible of any imperfection in their own powers by which they are rendered inadequate to their wishes, they are happy in feeling themselves fully authorised to enter into a treaty that can alone afford compleat relief to captivity. Experience has proved that nothing short of a General Cartel can remove the numerous inconveniences and distresses to which the

prisoners in this War have been exposed; and it cannot be too much deplored, that partial and temporary expedients should be preferred to a measure which offers so decisive and durable a remedy. It is not a particular or momentary interest that ought to influence transactions of this nature, but principles of general humanity, aiming at no other end than the mere relief of the unfortunate Prisoner.
              But while the Commissioners from General Washington are unhappily precluded from executing their Commission or consulting their own wishes, they cannot forbear expressing a hope that notwithstanding the obstructions in the way of a General Cartel, the business of exchanges may return into its old channel and be again carried on without interruption on the equitable terms which have heretofore from time to time obtained. The not being able to give so full relief as might be wished is certainly no argument for withholding all relief whatsoever.
              Adjourned ’till tomorrow Monday March 13th.

              Amboy March 13th 1780.
              The Conference was resumed and the Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton produced the following paper.
              The Commissioners from His Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton unwilling to prolong a meeting which they are sorry to find must terminate so contrary to the sanguine hopes and benevolent intentions with which they entered on the present Commission, find it however necessary to reply to the assertions contained in the minutes delivered to them by the Commissioners from General Washington, wherein they intend to invalidate the powers granted by sir Henry Clinton by advancing a fact which they endeavour to establish as a maxim to evince the clearness and obvious intentions of the purport of the negotiation, but which conclusion the Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton can by no means admit to be deduced or inferred from it. They must assert that the proposals concerted between Major General Phillips and Colonels Magaw, Mathews and Lieut. Colonels Ely and Ramsay and approved by Sir Henry Clinton were expressly designed to serve as a Basis whereon to treat for a General Exchange of Prisoners upon the mutual faith of the Commanders in Cheif of the British and American Armies, with a hope also that the proposals might be improved into an agreement of permanent advantage to both parties.
              The Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton must be of the opinion that the powers they are vested with comprehend an alternative, for a General Cartel involving in its consequences a General Exchange, the latter need not have been expressed had it not been intended to inply a General Exchange might still be adopted, provided the more desirable purpose of a General Cartel could not be effected.
              The American Commissioners having stated a new fact, drawn from

the correspondence between General Washington and Lieutenant General Knyphausen, it becomes proper to observe upon it, that General Sir Henry Clinton having left instructions with Lieutenant General Knyphausen for carrying the intentions into force for a meeting of Commissioners, it will appear by a reference to the Lieutenant General’s letter of the 19th of February 1780 to General Washington that the spirit and tenor of the aforementioned proposals were precisely adhered to as in that letter, it is expressly declared that the Commissioners were to meet for the purpose of settling a “General Exchange,” and although in the Lieutenant General’s letter, as quoted by the American Commissioners, there is a customary and civil recapitulation of part of General Washington’s letter of the 29th of February 1780, expressive of his wishes that a General Cartel might be settled, it by no means debarred, nor did it in any manner preclude, the avowed intention of a General Exchange, the desireable purpose which Lieutenant General Knyphausen had already expressed in His Excellency’s first letter to General Washington.
              Under this description of the matter which the Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton apprehend will appear, on an impartial review of the correspondence and transactions previous to this meeting, to be justly founded, they are well warranted to declare that it seems to them not possible for the American Commissioners, who they now have the honour to meet, to infer that General Washington should have supposed a delegated authority from Great Britain essential to the purpose of the present meeting, and they therefore, must beg to be excused when they testify their surprize at the objections made to their powers, which certainly by no prior declaration, expression, or implication they could foresee would have happened.
              The Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton take leave to observe that they conceive the American Congress have never intended a General Cartel or a General Exchange unless upon national ground which must ever frustrate the humane purpose the British Commissioners so ardently wished to have effected.
              Adjourned ’till tomorrow Tuesday March 14th.

              Amboy March 14th 1780.
              The Conference was resumed and the Commissioners from General Washington produced the following paper.
              The Commissioners from His Excellency General Washington reluctantly prosecute a discussion which promises no advantage to the purpose of the meeting, in which alone they are interested; but find themselves obliged to it, by the Commissioners from His Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton having involved a proposition foreign to the simple and natural import of their own powers, and endeavouring

as they conceive by a forced construction to justify that proposal. The Commissioners from General Washington have too entire a confidence in the candour of the British Commissioners to suppose they have any such intention, but in the present case, if their interpretation of the powers be right, the operation of the offer respecting a General Exchange is to give the negotiation on the side of the British Commissioners a degree of credit to which it is not entitled, by manifesting an apparent willingness to do an act desireable in itself, but which in reality they are not empowered to do.
              The Commissioners from General Washington deny not, that the object of the proposals between Major General Phillips, and Colonels Magaw, Matthews Lieutenant Colonels Ely and Ramsay was such as discribed by the British Commissioners. They have already admitted it. But they still maintain that the ground of the present meeting has been changed, by subsequent and more authentic acts, and extended from a temporary to a permanent agreement, from a particular exchange to a general cartel. The letter the British Commissioners are pleased to cite from His Excellency Lieutenant General Knyphausen of the 19th of February rather confirms than invalidates this position; for that also admits the idea of improving the proposals into an agreement for permanent advantage. It is conceived that the ideas of a permanent agreement and of one depending on the mere authority of a Commander in Chief, of course liable at any time to be violated by his successor are contradictory and irreconcileable. But if it be a good rule as it has always been held to be, to interpret antecedent by posterior acts there can remain no room for doubt—General Washington’s letter of the 29th of february and Lt General Knyphausen’s of the 4th Instant, both which were before referred to make a General Cartel the express and sole purpose of the meeting. It is apprehended it would be dangerous to admit that mode of explanation by which the plainest stipulations of official writings may be done away by resolving them into the mere forms of a customary civility. Nor can it but appear somewhat strange, that there should be a difference in opinion about the purpose of the meeting when Sir Henry Clinton’s powers themselves furnish so clear a comment; the avowed object of them being a General Cartel. The Commissioners from General Washington urge that a General Cartel can have no other foundation than national authority and national faith, without which it must be nominal and illusory. They therefore repeat their assertion, that after what had passed upon the subject in former interviews, it was to be expected, that either this purpose would not have been professed at all or Commissioners would have come with national powers to carry it into execution. The sense and practice of mankind must decide whether the principles on which the concurrence

of the respective Governments is required be well founded or not, and to these the Commissioners from General Washington venture to appeal with confidence.
              The Commissioners from General Washington flatter themselves that the British Commissioners will cease to think it impossible for them to have drawn the inference, “that General Washington supposed a delegated authority from the Court of London essential to the purpose of the present meeting”—when they possitively declare, as they before intimated, that this was absolutely the case—and when they add, that he considers a General Cartel on any other Basis, as inadmissible, delusive and impracticable.
              The Commissioners from General Washington find no reason to alter their opinion, that the powers from Sir Henry Clinton, do not authorise the proposition for a General Exchange, distinct from a General Cartel, and for the reason already given that they stand connected with each other and not as alternatives. The observation of the British Commissioners, deduced from a general exchange, being the consequence of a general cartel, only serves to show that there was rather a superfluous expression; but without an application entirely new of the common signs of language, it never can be construed into an alternative—Had this been intended, a mode of expression, admitting no ambiguity, would doubtless have been preferred. Instead of that, which has been made use of, nothing could have been more easy or natural than to have said, a General Cartel or General Exchange.
              The construction given by the Commissioners from General Washington appears the more evident, by a comparison of one part of the powers with the other. The preamble, which delineates the purpose of the meeting confines it to a General Cartel; the authorising clause speaks of a General Cartel and General Exchange. It must be supposed that the last was nothing more than an excess of terms, and could not mean to go beyond the acknowledged purpose of the meeting.
              The Commissioners from General Washington entirely concur with the British Commissioners in opinion, that the Honourable the Congress never intended a General Cartel but on national ground, because this determination has been frequently announced and because they conceive there cannot possibly be any other proper ground; and they are persuaded that Congress will never depart from the principles, which have governed Nations at war in every similar treaty. But so far as relates to actual exchanges, to as great extent as the proportion of Prisoners on both sides will permit the Commissioners from General Washington, declare in the most explicit manner that they may at any time be carried into effect if the British Government or British General be so disposed on the terms which have prevailed in the course of the

War, or on any others consistent with mutual justice and mutual advantage.
              The Commissioners from Sir Henry Clinton closed the correspondence by giving the following as their final answer.
              The Commissioners from His Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton conceive they have uniformly declined entering into any discussion on the subject of the objections to their powers, made by the Commissioners from General Washington further than by such assertions as might go to prove facts and explain, in the real sense, any parts of the previous leading matters which were thought necessary for producing this meeting. They take a liberty, of imagining that, however ingenious the reasonings of the American Commissioners may be, they will not convince nor have they confuted.
              The British Commissioners assert that a General Exchange has been an object desired on their part and that they conceive themselves vested with powers from His Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton to give so humane a purpose a full operation, supposing it could not be agreed to enter on a Negotiation for a General Cartel.
              This closed the conference on the Commission.

                Amboy March 14th 1780
                Ar. St Clair,Ed. Carrington,Alex. Hamilton

              Compared the above with the original draft of the minutes and found it to be a true Copy.

                W. PhillipsCosmo GordonCh: Norton