Title: General Orders, 11 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New-York, sept. 11th 1776.
Ulster.Albany.

Robt Williams of Col. Glovers Regiment is appointed Pay Master to said regiment.
William Arnold and Samuel Clark of Capt. Smith’s Company, Col. Smallwood’s Regiment—Daniel Donovel of Capt. Hardenberg’s Company, tried by a Court Martial whereof Col. Malcom was President, on a charge of “plundering the House lately occupied by Lord Stirling”—Donovel was convicted of the crime and sentenced to receive Thirty-nine Lashes—the others acquitted—The General approves the sentence, orders the latter to join their regiments and Donovel to be whipp’d to morrow, on the Grand parade, before the Guards march off—The Provost Marshal to see it executed, Col. Ritzema’s Regt being removed.
Peter Richards, Serjeant in the General’s Guard convicted by the same Court Martial of “Abusing and striking Capt. Gibbs,” sentenced to be reduced to the ranks, and whipped Thirty-nine Lashes. The General approves the sentence, and orders it to be executed, to morrow morning, at the head of the company at eight o’Clock.
Col. Palfrey Pay Master will receive the Pay-Abstracts agreeable to yesterday’s Orders of Genl Spencer’s Division, at General McDougall’s quarters, near Harlem on Saturday and Sunday—Of General Heath’s division at his Head-Quarters at any time.
The commanding Officers of Col. Silliman’s, Col. Lewis, Coll Mead’s and Col. Thompson’s Regts to examine the state of the Ammunition of their regiments, it being reported that their men on Guard last night were deficient.
John Christy of Col. Humphrey’s Regt convicted by a Court Martial whereof Col. Malcom was President of “Desertion”—ordered to receive Thirty-nine lashes—The General approves the sentence, and orders it to be executed, to morrow, at the usual time & place.

Such regiments whose Pay-Masters have not been named in General Orders, are by their Field Officers, immediately to recommend suitable persons, to the General, for that office—Every recommendation is to be signed by the Field Officers of the regiments who are present.


Title: From George Washington to the Continental Congress Committee of Conference or Edward Rutledge, 11 September 1776 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Continental Congress Committee of Conference,Rutledge, Edward

Letter not found: to the Continental Congress Committee of Conference or Edward Rutledge, 11 Sept. 1776. In a letter of this date to GW, Rutledge, who was a member of the committee, refers to “your Favour of this Morning.”


Title: To George Washington from Certain General Officers, 11 September 1776
From: Certain General Officers
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency
September 11. 1776

The Situation of the Army under your Excellency’s Command is in our Opinions so critical & dangerous that We apprehend a Board of General Officers should be immediately calld for the purpose of considering it.
We do not mean to condemn as unwise or imprudent any Measures which have heretofore been taken; but We conceive a Reconsideration of an important Question determined at the last Board of General Officers to be absolutely necessary to satisfy our own Apprehensions & the Apprehensions of many excellent Field Officers & others from the Dispositions now making by the Advice of that Board.
We know the Danger & bad Policy of giving Way to Applications for the Reconsideration of common Propositions, which may have been solemnly determined; but the present Case is of such Magnitude & is big with such Consequences to All America that a Breach of common Forms & even the Risque of establishing wrong precedents should in our Opinions be now overuled.
What we have to offer to Your Excellency in general Council proceeds not from Fear of personal Danger nor the Expectation of deriving to ourselves any Honor & Reputation from a Change of Measures—it proceeds from a Love of our Country and a determined Resolution to urge the best & wisest Measures: & finally to execute if possible even erroneous Ones which on cool dispassionate Reconsideration cannot be avoided.

Nathanael Greene M.G.
Thomas Mifflin B.G.
Jno. Nixon B.G.
Rezin Beall B.G.
Saml H. Parsons B.G.
James Wadsworth B:G:

I think it a mark of Wisdom to reconsider Opinions, upon Subjects of high Importance when ever so many respectable Gentn request it as have signed above me. I therefore heartily concur with them in the Application abovementioned.

Jno: Morin Scott B.G.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Hugh Mercer, 11 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Mercer, Hugh

Sir
New York Sept. 11th 1776

I have received your favour by Colo. Weedon. As it seems every day more Probable that the Posts at Kingsbridge will be occupied by this Army & the principal defence made there, I have orderd Colo. Bradlys Regiment to move from Bergen. As that Post does not seem to be an Object of the Enemys Attention I am in doubt whether it is necessary for you to replace this Regiment or leave it to the remaining troops—as you best know what number there are from your Camp at that Post I must leave it to you to direct a further supply or not as under all Circumstances you think best & necessary—We find a moving Camp will require a great[er] Number of waggons than was expected. If Mr Biddle could engage about 50 of the common Country waggons or in proportion of the Philadelphia Teams to go up to Burdetts ferry, it would greatly releive us, The Idea of impressing is very disagreable & only to be adopted in Case of the most urgent Necessity—The Enemy is taking Post on the Islands about Hellgate so as to make a landing with the greater Ease & Convenience. We are endeavouring to give them a suitable Reception & hope they will not be able to execute their Scheme. I am Sir Your Most Obbt Humbe Servant

G.W.


Title: General Orders, 12 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, sept: 12th 1776.
FranklinCongress.

The difficulty of procuring Milk, and other proper Food for the sick, has induced the General to establish an Hospital, where those Necessaries can be procured in plenty—The regimental Sick are therefore to be immediately mustered for this purpose—One of the Hospital Surgeons will attend with the regimental Surgeon—such as are able to remove themselves will be allowed so to do, under the care of a proper officer—A suitable officer, not under the rank of a Captain, is to be appointed by the Brigadier, out of each Brigade, to attend such sick of each Brigade, as cannot remove themselves; they are, under the Advice of the Surgeon, who also attends, to see that all proper care is taken for their comfort, while removing, and afterwards.
The same Court Martial which tried Major Popst to try Major Hetfield, charged with “Making a false Report of the Guards.”
As the care of the sick is an object of great Importance, The General directs, that a person, not under the rank of a Captain, be also appointed in like manner, in each Brigade, who shall be empowered to procure Necessaries for them, and Monies furnished for that purpose; he taking care that the utmost regularity and Care be used.

John Porter Esqr: is appointed Paymaster to Col. Ward’s Regiment, in the Continental service.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Clinton, 12 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

Sir
Head Quarters New York 12th Sepr 1776

I have before me your two Letters of the 8th and 10th Inst. the first inclosing Returns of the Number of Men and Ordnance

and Artillery Stores at Forts Montgomery and Constitution; the last, Copies of two Letters from the Convention of the State of New York, by which it appears they had ordered in 600 Militia as a Reinforcement to the two posts, and which I hope will put them in a proper State of Defence.
I ordered Colo. Knox to provide and forward the different Articles wanted by you in the Ordnance Department, but he informed me, that from the present unsettled State of our Magazine and Laboratory (many of our Stores being removed and on their way to Kingsbridge and Mount Washington) he could not comply at once with the whole of the demand, but would send what he could conveniently collect.
The Convention of New York having appointed Mr Schenk to provide what Articles they found wanting at their late Review of your Works and Stores (and which include many of the Articles you wrote for) I hope, as he will make it his particular Business, that he will collect many Articles, which Colo. Knox from the present hurry of our Affairs cannot attend to. And if they should both provide the same things, your Stores will only be the fuller. I have again ordered the Quarter Masr Genl to send up the Nails with all possible Expedition.
The Convention having ordered an Armourer with proper Tools to be fixed at Your posts, I hope what Arms are at present out of Repair will soon be made fit for Use. We must make every shift with our old Arms, till we can get better supplied. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Morgan, 12 September 1776
From: Morgan, John
To: Washington, George

May it please Your Excellency
New York Sepr 12. 1776.

Agreeable to Orders I have been into the County of Orange & collected seven Members of Committee, & spent the whole of Yesterday & part of this day in viewing the Country, & looking out for proper Coverings for the reception of the Sick & Wounded. I am sorry to report that in a circuit of 14 Miles in that County, I cannot find or hear of any suitable Accomodations, for more than about 100 Sick. No Country can be worse provided in all respects; & the places proposed are remote from any Landing.
From the knowledge I have of New-Ark, I am perswaded it is a place infinitely superior in all respects for the Establishment of a Genl Hospital. There are but 4 Miles of Land Carriage required; all the rest is Water Carriage. The Houses are numerous large & Convenient. If it be objected that they are full of Inhabitants from N. York, so is every Hovel thro’ Orange County; & as to the Town of Orange, I cannot find that there is room for One Sick person without incommoding Some One or other.
After this report, which is grounded on the most careful Inquiry & Inspection, I wait your Excellencys further orders. but if I may be permitted to offer my Sentiments it is, that no time be lost in applying to the Committee at New-Ark by requisition for Room for the Sick; & if your Excellency thinks proper, I will immediately repair with all dispatch to urge the Matter without delay—or proceed in any other Way your Excellcy may see fit. I am, Yr Excellencys Most obedt & very humble Servt

John Morgan


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 12 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

Sir
Head Quarters N. York 12th Sepr 1776

I have been honored with your favr of the 7th Inst. upon the Subject of Tents for this Army. That you might receive proper Information of the Number wanted, I directed the Quarter Master General to return you an Estimate, whose Office it is to provide them. His Report you will find in the inclosed Letter which I beg leave to refer you, and requesting that the greatest Dispatch may be used in having them made and forwarded. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect Sir Your most obt Servt

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 12 September 1776
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

Sir.
War Office [Philadelphia] Septr 12th 1776

By Direction of Congress to the Board of War I have procured two of the Philadelphia Light Horse to conduct the Generals Prescott & Macdonald to your Excellency to be exchanged agreeable to the Resolve of Congress for the Generals Sullivan & Lord Sterling. I have directed the Gentlemen of the Escorts to stop short at some safe Place on the Road & send off an Express to your Excellency for your Directions in the Matter. The Generals are on their Parole not to attempt an Escape or take any Step contrary to the Rules of War, but to deliver themselves to

your Excellency for your proper Disposal of them until their Exchange can be effected. I have the Honor to be Your obedt humble Servt

Richard Peters Secy


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 12 September 1776
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Albany september 12th 1776

Yesterday I was favored with a Letter from General Gates of the 7th instant, continued to the 8th, Covering the Information given by a Hessian Deserter & Copy of his Capitulation, Copies whereof I do Myself the Honor to inclose.
General Gates informs Me “No Intelligence that can be depended upon, has Yet arrived from the Fleet, Scouts & Parties are out by Land & by Water to make Discoveries.”
Part of the Militia of this County are now in this Town & schenectady & more are daily coming in, I have not heard a Line from Colo: Dayton, since that of the 4th instant, I have therefore requested the Militia to remain here, untill I shall be enabled to Judge, which Way It will be proper to March them. I am Dr Sir, most respectfully Your Excellencys Obedt Humble servt

Ph: Schuyler


Title: From George Washington to Abraham Yates, Jr., 12 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Yates, Abraham Jr.

Sir
Head Qrs New York Septr 12th 1776

I yesterday received the favor of your Letter of the 9th with Its several Inclosures and am extremely happy that your Honbe Body had anticipated my recommendation by resolving on an Augmentation of Six hundred men to the Garrisons in the Highlands—the Importance of those posts demands the utmost attention, and every exertion to maintain them.
The Vessels for the removal of the Sick are not yet arrived. Their Present situation gives me great anxiety. As the wind is now favourable I would fain hope that a sufficient number will come down to day to take in the whole. If they do not my distress will be much Increased.
Genl Clinton in a Letter of the 8th transmitted me a List of

Artillery & Ordnance Stores wanted at Forts Montgomery & Constitution, which Included the Several Articles you have determd to procure, Except those mentioned below. I directed that they should be sent up, but as the situation of our Affairs at this Time may not perhaps admit of It, I think It will be prudent for Mr Schenk whom you have appointed an Agent in this Instance, to get all he can—Should he be able to obtain the supply you have voted necessary—and Genl Clinton’s demand be complied with also, no damage will be done—Our stores will not be too large. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Your Most Obedt Sert

Go: Washington

Intrenching Tools[,] Iron Carriages[,] Cannon Harness[,] Armourer with his Tools.


Title: General Orders, 13 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New-York, sept: 13th 1776.
Newark.Amboy.

Serjeant Clements, late of the General’s Guard, convicted by a Court Martial whereof Col. Malcom was Presdt, of “Remissness of duty”—is ordered to be reduced to the ranks. The General approves the sentence and orders that he be sent back to the regiment from which he was taken.
The visiting officer has again reported that the men from Col. Silliman’s, Col. Lewis’s, and Col. Thompson’s Regiments, go upon guard, deficient in Ammunition and with bad Arms—The General hopes the officers of those regiments will immediately attend to it.
Simon Learned, late Lieutenant in Learned’s Regiment, having resigned his Commission as Lieutenant, is appointed Paymaster to said regiment.
Genl Fellow’s Brigade to remove into the adjoining Out Houses, and raft the boards which compose their present Encampment, to Kingsbridge, or such part of them, as may be deemed necessary by him.

A disappointment with respect to a proper place for the removal of the sick, in some measure vacates the Order of yesterday, and the following is now to be attended to, and obeyed—The situation of the Army rendering it difficult to make that provision for the relief and support of the sick in the City of New-York which their cases may require—In Order the most speedy and effectual manner to remove the sick to some place where they can be supplied with every thing necessary for them, the General directs the Surgeons of each Brigade, under the immediate Inspection of the Brigadiers, to examine the state of the sick, and to make a list of the names of such as they suppose can remove themselves to the Brigadier General of the Brigade, who is desired to send such Convalescent persons to some convenient place in the Neighbourhood of New-York, to be chosen by, and be under the care of, a discreet Officer, and one of the regimental Surgeons, who is, in the most prudent manner, to make the necessary provision for the reception and support of such Convalescent Persons, who are immediately to be returned to their regiments when their health will admit of their doing duty. Such as are so ill as not to be able to remove themselves, are to be collected under the care of another officer of the like Rank, in one place and notice given to the Director General of the Hospital, that they may be taken proper care of. In each of the above cases, the superintending officer is permitted to lay out money, in the most frugal manner, for the comfortable Subsistence of his sick, which will be allowed him on rendering his account.
Mr Hendrick Fisher is appointed Paymaster to Col. Prescott’s regiment.
Charles Hobby Hubbard Esqr: to Col. Serjeant’s Regt until the person arrives who is designed for that office.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 13 September 1776
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Kingsbridge Sept. 13th 1776
m[a]y it Please your Excellency

Being so unhappy as to Differ in Sentiment from a Majority of the Honble Board of General Officers of the Army of the United States of america, in the Important Question whether, a Former Determination of the Board Should be reconsidered, and the City of new York no⟨w⟩ be Evacuated, and Some of the General officers Desiring that the reasons of the Gentlemen Differing in Sentiment from the Majority might be Stated, I Do

most Freely and Heartily State mine, which I am ready to avow and Declare to the World.
1st objtn to the Evacuating the City, Because it gives Such unspeakable advantage to the Enemy, In all Invasions of a Country, a wise and Politick General will if Possible early avail himself of Some Place of Importance, Free and Easy of access to navigation and if Possible at the Conflux of the most Considerable Rivers, where He Can with Ease form His Magazines, fortify and Secure the Place for a Safe retreat in Case of necessity for an Assylum for his Sick & Wounded, and for the advantage of winter Quarters, all of which are Capital objects in the views of a Commander And Clear it is that the City of New York has from the very first Landing of the Enemy at Staten Island been the Object of their Commanders, Their Manoeuvre from Staten Island, to Long Island Together with the whole of their Present manoeuvres, are but So many Clear and Striking Evidences of it, The City and it[s] Environs being Surrounded with a great variety of works, has much Pusselled the enemy, The City being their object as I have before observed, Their whole Attention has been Centering to obtain the Possession of it which has Induced them to Keep their Fleet & army, as much as Possible together, and with all this Collected Force they have Discovered a Diffidence (fortifyed as our Camp has been) of Attacking us—The City being now about to be Put into their Hands, Gives them almost (not to Ennumerate) every advantage which they Can wish to Have, and leads to my
2nd objtn Because it gives the Enemy a unspeakable advantage, to Attack Differant States with great Ease and Advantage, 1st Because Having got Possession of the City—well Fortified a Small Garrison will be Sufficient to defend it, which will Enable them to Employ almost their whole Force against the Neighbouring States, where they will ravage the Country, Disarm the Inhabitants, and Derive to themselves many advantages, and Compel us unavoidably to Detach our Army which is a Manoeuvre often Times very Dangerous and in the Present Case will Serve only to Fatigue and Harrass our Troops.
3rdly Because it will Give the Enemy an Oppertunity to Infest our Sea Coast, with nearly the whole of their Ships of war, as they will be no Longer necessary, Here to Cover the Landing of

Troops or Guarding the Transports and Storeships in the Harbour, which will now Ride in Safety at the wharves.
4thly Because from its Centrical Situation as a Safe Rendezvous for the Enemies Ships & Troops both Winter, and Summer the giveing them the City Entire, will afford them a great advantage, by winter as well as Summer Campaigns to Annoy and Distress the United States, both northward & Southward.
5thly Because I think it will greatly Dispirit both the army, and Country, Partly at this Time and much more So when they Come to Se[e] and Hear, that the Enemy are making Excursions both Eastward & Southward, which I think a man need nither be a Prophet or Son of a Prophet to fore See.
6thly Because, I think our Situation, (having So many works Thrown up) and numbers if Properly Disposed of as would have Enabled us to have Kept the Enemy at Bay, Untill the Campaign was Spun out, as the Enemy have all along Discovered no great fondness for Attacking our Lines I think that if the Army had been Posted Immediately (after) agreable to the Determination of the Preceeding Board, of Genl officers, The Enemy would not have Dar’d to attacke us, and if they had, would have met with a Rebuff.
The foregoing with Several others are the reasons for my being against a Reconsideration of a former Determination If your Excellency should Desire any further Explination of the Last objection as to our being in ability to Keep the Enemy at Bay I am ready to Do it.
I am Unhappy when I Differ from others in Sentiment, Especially those who I revere for their wisdom and Knowledge and more So if it be on Matters of vast Importance, But I must act agreable to the Dictates of my Own reason, and Cannot give up my own Opinion untill I am Convinced by better reasons than my own, that I am mistaken. I have the Honor to be with great respect your Excellencys most Humble Servt

W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from the Massachusetts General Court, 13 September 1776
From: Massachusetts General Court
To: Washington, George

Sir
State of Massachusetts Bay Sepr 13th 1776.

The General Assembly of this State have for some days past, been anxiously expecting the particulars of the late attack upon the Continental Army under your Excellency’s more immediate Command; but the accounts hitherto received, have been vague, & uncertain.
It is the earnest desire of the Assembly, at this important crisis, to furnish you with every needed Assistance in their power; and having just received a Letter from Govr Trumbull, proposing the raising a part of our Militia for this important purpose, and soon after a Letter from the Honble Congress to the same effect, as also a Resolve of Congress relative to this matter, they have ordered a fifth part of the Militia, not already in the service (the remote Counties, and some Sea-Port Towns excepted) to be immediately drafted out and to march with all possible dispatch, to your assistance; excepting one Battalion ordered to Rhode Island, in consequence of the Resolve beforemention’d.
Our Troops will gladly receive, upon their route, your Excellencys orders for their destination, as the Express returns. A Copy of our Resolve, respecting said Draft, is inclosed. As we cannot furnish Tents for these Troops, Your Excellency, will provide for them; perhaps 4000 Men. We shall subsist them ’till their arrival at Horse neck, and depend upon your Excellency’s giving orders for their receiving rations after that time. We ardently wish you victory over the Enemies of the American States, and remain, with great respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedt humble Serts

Jer: Powell Presidt


Title: General Orders, 14 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New-York, sept: 14th 1776.
Bristol.Roxbury.

The Court of Inquiry on Major Hatfield, not having been able to proceed he is released from his arrest, until they can attend.
The General is exceedingly anxious that every Soldier should be well provided with Ammunition, and desires, that every officer will be careful to see there is no deficiency in this respect, as it is highly probable they may soon be called to Action.
It is so critical a period, and so interesting to every true lover of his Country, that the General hopes that every officer & Solider will now exert himself to the utmost—it is no time for ease or indulgence—the Arms of the men, the Condition of the sick, care to prevent Imposition in order to avoid danger and duty—Vigilance of Sentries and Guards, are all now requisite—We have once found the bad consequences of a surprize; let the utmost Care be used to prevent another—For this purpose, the General directs that none be put out as sentries at night but pick’d men; that they be visited every half hour, and every motion of the enemy narrowly watched.
General Wadworth’s Brigade to furnish two Sentries upon the road, to prevent Waggons, in the public Service, going out empty, or carrying sick.
Benjamin Haywood, late Lieutenant in the 4th Regiment, is appointed Paymaster to said regiment.
Capt. Brown is excused from duty, on account of his assisting the Quarter-Master General.


Title: To George Washington from William Bradford, Sr., 14 September 1776
From: Bradford, William, Sr. (1729-1808)
To: Washington, George

State of Rhode Island &c. Bristol September 14th 1776
Sir

Governor Cooke having entered the Hospital for Inoculation it becomes incumbent upon me to acquaint your Excellency that upon the Receipt of a Letter of the 3d instant from Mr President Hancock inclosing several Resolves of the General Congress, One of them ordering One of the Continental Battalions in this State to march immediately to New York and requesting the Massachusetts-Bay to send a Regiment of their Militia to replace it and another recommending it to all the States Northward of Virginia to furnish all the Aid in their Power to the Army at New York, I summoned the Committee appointed to act in Cases of Emergency during the Recess of the General Assembly to meet who have taken every necessary Measure to forward the March of the Battalion ordered to New York. Part of them will proceed this Day and the Remainder to Morrow.
The Committee not having it in their Power to afford so speedy an Aid in any other Way have requested Col. Richmond who commands the other Continental Battalion in this State to hold it in Readiness to march at the shortest Notice. And he accordingly will proceed with his Battalion to New York as soon as he shall receive Intelligence that the Regiment from the Massachusetts hath entered this State. To replace it the Committee have Ordered a Battalion of Militia of Seven Hundred Men to be raised and embodied. I have the Honor to be with great Esteem and Respect Sir Your Excellency’s Most obedient and Most humble Servant

William Bradford Deputy Governor


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 14 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
New York Septr 14th 1776.

I have been duly honored with your favor of the 10th with the Resolution of Congress which accompanied It, and thank them for the confidence they repose in my Judgement respecting the evacuation of the City. I could wish to maintain It, Because I know It to be of Importance, But I am fully convinced that It cannot be done, and that an attempt for that purpose if persevered in, might & most certainly would, be attended with consequences the most fatal and alarming in their nature. Sensible of this, Several of the Genl Officers since the determination of the Council mentioned in my last, petitioned that a Second Council might be called to reconsider the propositions which had been before them upon the Subject. accordingly I called One on the 12th when a large Majority not only determined a removal of the Army prudent but absolutely necessary, declaring they were entirely convinced from a full and minute inquiry into our Situation, that It was extremely perilous and from every movement of the Enemy and the Intelligence received, their plan of Operations was to get in our rear, & by cutting off the Communication with the Main, oblige us to force a passage thro em on the terms they wish, or to become prisoners in some short time for want of necessary supplies of Provision. We are now taking every method in our power to remove the Stores &c. in which we find almost insuperable difficulties. They are so great & so numerous, that I fear we shall not effect the whole before we meet with some interruption. I fully expected that an Attack somewhere would have been made last Night. In that I was disappointed, & happy shall I be If my apprehensions of One to Night or in a day or two, are not confirmed by the Event. If It is deferred a little while longer I flatter myself All will be got away, and our Force be more concentred & of course more likely to resist them with success.
Yesterday afternoon Four Ships of War, Two of Forty & Two of Twenty eight Guns went up the East River, passing between Governors and Long Island, and Anchored about a Mile above the City opposite Mr Stivansents where the Rose Man of War was laying before. The design of their going not being certainly known, gives rise to various Conjectures—Some supposing they

are to cover the landing of a part of the Enemy above the City—Others that they are to assist in destroying our Battery at Horn’s Hook, that they may have a free and uninterrupted Navigation in the Sound—It is an Object of great importance to them, and what they are industriously trying to effect by a pretty constant Cannonade & Bombardment.
Before I conclude, I would beg leave to mention to Congress, that the pay now allowed to Nurses for their attendance on the sick, is by no means adequate to their services—the consequence of which is, that they are extremely difficult to procure, Indeed they are not to be got, and we are under the necessity of substituting in their place a Number of Men from the respective Regiments, whose service by that means is entirely lost in the proper line of their duty, and but little benefit rendered to the Sick. The Officers I have talked with upon the Subject, All agree that they should be allowed a Dollar ⅌ Week, and that for less they cannot be had. Our Sick are extremely numerous and we find their removal attended with the greatest difficulty; It is a matter that employs much of our time & care, and what makes It more distressing, is the want of proper & convenient places for their reception. I fear their sufferings will be great and many, However nothing on my part that Humanity or policy can require shall be wanting to make them comfortable so far as the State of things will admit of. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Your Most Obedt Sert

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 15 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, septr 15th 1776.
Essex.Kingsbridge


Title: General Orders, 16 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Harlem-Heights, sept: 16th 1776.
BellMaryland.

The Arrangement for this night.
Genl Clinton to form next to the North River, and extend to the left—Genl Scott’s Brigade next to Genl Clinton’s—Lt Col. Sayer of Col. Griffith’s Regt with the three Companies intended for a reinforcement to day, to form upon the left of Scott’s Brigade—Genl Nixon’s—Col. Serjeant’s division, Col. Weedon’s and Major Price’s Regts are to retire to their quarters and refresh themselves, but to hold themselves in readiness to turn out [at] a minute’s warning—Genl McDougall to establish proper guards against his Brigade upon the height, and every Regiment posted upon the Heights, from Morris’s house to Genl McDougall’s Camp, to furnish proper Guards to prevent a Surprize; Not less than twenty men from each regiment—Genl Putnam commands upon the right-flank to night—Genl Spencer from McDougall’s Brigade up to Morris’s house—Should the

Enemy attempt to force the pass to night, Genl Putnam is to apply to Genl Spencer for a reinforcement.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 16 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Qrs at Col. Roger Morris’s House Septr 16th 1776

On Saturday about Sunset Six more of the Enemy’s Ships, One or Two of which were men of War; passed between Governors Island & Red Hook and went up the East River to the Station taken by those mentioned in my Last—In half an Hour, I received Two Expresses, One from Col. Serjeant at Horn’s Hook (Hell Gate) giving an Account that the Enemy to the amount of Three or Four Thousand had marched to the River & were embarking for Barns’s or Mont[r]esors Island where Numbers of them were then Incamped; the other from Genl Mifflin, that uncommon & formidable movements were discovered among the Enemy, which being confirmed by the Scouts I had sent out, I proceeded to Harlem where It was supposed, or at Morisania opposite to It, the principal attempt to land would be made—However Nothing remarkable happened that night—But in the morning they began their Operations—Three Ships of War came up the North River as high [as] Bloomingdale which put a total stop to the removal by Water of any more of our provision &c. and about Eleven OClock those in the East River began a most severe and Heavy Cannonade to scour the Grounds and cover the landing of their Troops between Turtle-Bay and the City, where Breast Works had been thrown up to oppose them. As soon as I heard the Firing, I road with all possible dispatch towards the place of landing when to my great surprize and Mortification I found the Troops that had been posted in the Lines retreating with the utmost precipitation and those ordered to support them, parson’s & Fellows’s Brigades, flying in every direction and in the greatest confusion, notwithstanding the exertions of their Generals to form them. I used every means in my power to rally and get them into some order but my attempts were fruitless and ineffectual, and on the appearance of a small party of the Enemy, not more than Sixty or Seventy, their disorder increased and they ran away in the greatest

confusion without firing a Single Shot—Finding that no confidence was to be placed in these Brigades and apprehending that another part of the Enemy might pass over to Harlem plains and cut off the retreat to this place, I sent orders to secure the Heights in the best manner with the Troops that were stationed on and near them, which being done, the retreat was effected with but little or no loss of Men, tho of a considerable part of our Baggage occasioned by this disgracefull and dastardly conduct—Most of our Heavy Cannon and a part of our Stores and provisions which we were about removing was unavoidably left in the City, tho every means after It had been determined in Council to evacuate the post, had been used to prevent It. We are now encamped with the Main body of the Army on the Heights of Harlem where I should hope the Enemy would meet with a defeat in case of an Attack, If the Generality of our Troops would behave with tolerable bravery, but experience to my extreme affliction has convinced me that this is rather to be wished for than expected; However I trust, that there are many who will act like men, and shew themselves worthy of the blessings of Freedom. I have sent out some reconoitring parties to gain Intelligence If possible of the disposition of the Enemy and shall inform Congress of every material event by the earliest Opportunity. I have the Honor to be with the highest respect Sir Your Most Obedt Sert.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 16 September 1776
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philada Sepr 16th 1776.

The Congress having at different Times passed sundry Resolves relative to a Variety of Subjects, I do myself the Honour to enclose you a Copy of the same, as necessary for your Information & Direction.
The Resolve of the 12th respecting Colonel Trumbull, will I trust be satisfactory, & prove the Means of his continuing in an office of such Importance to the Army, and which he has hitherto discharged with the greatest Fidelity & Success. I have the Honour to be with perfect Esteem & Respect Sir your most obed. & very hble Ser.

John Hancock Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 16 September 1776
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

War Office [Philadelphia] Septr 16th 1776

The Board of War have directed me to lay the foregoing Memorial of the Second Lieutenants of the Virginia Regiments before your Excellency for your Opinion & Advice thereon which

the Board request you will communicate to them as soon as convenient. I have the Honor to be Your most obedt humble Servt

Richard Peters Secy


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Washington, 16 September 1776 [letter not found]
From: Washington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

 Letter not found: from Samuel Washington, 16 Sept. 1776. On 5 Oct. GW wrote to his brother Samuel: “Your favour of the 16th of last Month came safe to hand.”


Title: General Orders, 17 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Harlem Heights, sept: 17th 1776.
Leitch.Virginia.

The General most heartily thanks the troops commanded Yesterday, by Major Leitch, who first advanced upon the enemy, and the others who so resolutely supported them—The Behaviour of Yesterday was such a Contrast, to that of some Troops the day before, as must shew what may be done, where Officers & soldiers will exert themselves—Once more therefore, the General calls upon officers, and men, to act up to the noble cause in which they are engaged, and to support the Honor and Liberties of their Country.
The gallant and brave Col. Knowlton, who would have been an Honor to any Country, having fallen yesterday, while gloriously fighting, Capt. Brown is to take the Command of the party lately led by Col. Knowlton—Officers and men are to obey him accordingly.
The Loss of the Enemy yesterday, would undoubtedly have been much greater, if the Orders of the Commander in Chief had not in some instances been contradicted by inferior officers, who, however well they may mean, ought not to presume to direct—It is therefore ordered, that no officer, commanding a party, and having received Orders from the Commander in Chief, depart from them without Counter Orders from the same Authority; And as many may otherwise err through Ignorance, the Army is now acquainted that the General’s Orders are delivered by the Adjutant General, or one of his Aid’s-De-Camp, Mr Tilghman, or Col. Moylan the Quarter Master General.
Brigade Majors are to attend at Head Quarters, every day at twelve O’Clock, and as soon as possible to report where their several Brigades and Regiments are posted. If many regiments have not been relieved, for want of the attendance of their Brigade Majors for Orders; It is therefore the Interest and Duty of every Brigadier to see that his Brigade Major attends at twelve

O’Clock at Noon, and five in the afternoon; and they are to be careful to make the Adjutants attend them every day.
The several Major & Brigadier Generals are desired to send to Head-Quarters an Account of the places where they are quartered.
Until some general Arrangement for duty can be fixed, each Brigade is to furnish Guards, who are to parade at their respective Brigadier’s quarters, in such proportions as they shall direct.
Such regiments as have expended their Ammunition, or are otherwise deficient, are immediately to be supplied, by applying to the Adjutant General for an Order—but the regiment is to be first paraded, and their Ammunition examined, the commanding officer is then to report how such deficiency has happened.


Title: From George Washington to Nicholas Cooke, 17 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Cooke, Nicholas

Sir
Head Qrs at Colo. Morris’s House Septr 17th 1776

I received the honor of your favor of the 6th Inst. by Messrs Collins, Babcock & Stanton, and should have acknowledged It before now, had I not been prevented by the peculiar Situation of our Affairs.
I communicated my Sentiments to those Gentn upon the Subject of your Letter and the several propositions that were before

me, who I doubt not will make a full and due report of the same to you and your Honble Assembly: However I shall take the liberty of adding, that the divided State of our Army, which when collected in One body is inferior to that of the Enemy—their Having landed almost the whole of their force on Long Island, and formed a plan of cutting off all communication between that and the City of New York, which we had but too good reasons to beleive practicable and easy to effect with their Ships of War, made It necessary and prudent to withdraw our Troops from the former, that our chance of resistance and opposition might be more probable and likely to be attended with a happy Issue.
I feel myself much concerned on account of your Apprehensions for the Town of Newport and the Island of Rhode Island, and should esteem myself peculiarly happy were It in my power to afford means for their Security and that of the State in General, or to point out such measures as would be effectual for that purpose; But circumstanced as I am, It is not possible for me to grant any Assistance, nor can I with propriety undertake to prescribe the mode which will best promote their defence. This must depend on such a variety of circumstances, that I should suppose you and the Assembly who are in the State will be much more competent to the Task than what I or any person out of It can be, and therefo⟨re⟩ I can only recommend that you will pursue such steps as you in your Judgement shall think most conducive to that end, observing that It appears to me a matter of extreme difficulty (If practicable) to prevent the Enemy’s Ships doing damage to every Island accessible to ’em, unless the passes between them and the Main are so narrow as to oblige them to come very near such Batteries as may be erected for their annoyance on commanding Ground.
I cannot sufficiently express my thanks for the readiness you and your Assembly manifested in ordering Troops &c. to Long Island on hearing of my request to Governor Trumbull upon that Subject. At the time that I made It, I conceiv⟨ed⟩ the plan of much Importance, and that many valuable and salutary consequences might have resulted from It, But as Things have undergone a material change since, It may not be improper to consider and be satisfied of some facts, which ought to be clearly known, previous to any attempt to carry It into Execution & on which the success of It will greatly depend—such as an entire

conviction of the friendly disposition of the Inhabitants on the Island—the Number that would Join the Troops that might be sent over—The lengths they would go—the Support they would & can give, and whether a retreat from thence, could be safely effected in case It should be necessary—These matters and others which a more minute consideration of the plan will present to your view, should be well weighed and digested & which I thought It my duty to mention especially as the Scheme had originated with me—My Anxiety and concern for the Inhabitants at the East end of the Island, who have been represented always as friendly & well attached to the cause of the States, prompt me to wish them every assistance, but If the Efforts you could make in conjunction with Governor Trumbull would not promise almost a certainty of success, perhaps they might tend to aggravate their misfortunes—The Committee stated sundry propositions respecting this expedition—such as If any thing was attempted where a Stand should be made? This must be left to the discretion of those who command—nor can I spare an Officer for that purpose or recommend One—What Number of Men should be sent? & what proportion from the Massachusetts—The Number necessary will depend upon the force they will have to oppose & the assistance they would derive from the Islanders—the proportion from the Massachusetts on the will of the legislature, or voluntary Engagement of the people in the service—What Artillery they should have? I am of Opinion the Artillery would be subject to loss without any great advantage resulting from It—They also asked whether any Frigates should be sent &c.? As the Enemy have now the free and entire command of the Sound, and many Ships of War in it, they will be much more liable to be taken, than they would have been some time ago, and when It was proposed by Governor Trumbull to make an attempt upon the Ships above Hell Gate. In this Instance However I do not conceive my self at liberty to say any thing peremptory one way or other, having no power over the Frigates.
I am sensible of the force of your Observation, that the Common Cause might be benefited by the Several States receiving early and authentic Intelligence of every material occurrence. permit me at the same time to assure you, that I often regret my incapacity in this instance, and that the neglect does not arise

from want of Inclination or thro inattention, but from the variety of Important matters that are always pressing upon and which daily surround me.
Before I conclude I shall take this Opportunity to inform you, that having received certain Information that the Enemy’s plan of Operations was to pass from Long Island and Land in our Rear with their Army, to cut off all communication with the Country, and for which they were making every possible disposition, A Council of Genl Oficers determined last Week on a removal of the Army from the City in order to prevent the fatal consequences which must inevitably ensue If they could have executed their Scheme, resolving at the same time, that every appearance of defence should be kept up till Our Sick, Ordinance & Other Stores could be removed. This was set about with the greatest Industry and as to the Sick was compleatly effected, but on Sunday morning before we had accomplished the removal of all our Cannon, provision & Baggage, they sent three Ships of War up the North River whereby the Water carriage was totally stopped, the Ships Anchoring not far above the City. and about Eleven OClock those that were laying at Turtle Bay or rather below It in the East River, being Six or Seven in Number besides some Transports, began and continued for some Time a most severe and Heavy Canonade to scour the Ground and cover the Landing of their Troops. I had gone the Night before to the Main body of the Army which was posted on the plains and Heights of Harlem, apprehending from many uncommon and great movements among the Enemy that they meant to make an attack there that Night, or to land on the East side of Harlem River. As soon as the firing began, I rode with all possible dispatc⟨h⟩ towards the place of landing where Breast Works had been thrown up, and to my great surprize and mortification found the Troop⟨s⟩ that had been posted in the Lines retreating with the utmost precip[it]ation and disorder and those ordered to support them, notwithstanding the exertions of their Brigadiers, Parsons & Fellows, to form them, running away in the most disgraceful and shamefull manner, nor could my utmost efforts rally them or prevent their flight. This scandalous conduct occasioned a loss of Several Tents and Other Baggage which Otherwise would have been easily secured—The remainder of the Troops that were in the City got out and

the retreat of the whole was effected with the loss of but very few Men, not more than three or four that I have heard of were made prisoners, & only One or two killed. I am now Encamped on the Heights above mentioned which are so well calculated for defence, that I should hope If the Enemy make an Attack and our Men will behave with tolerable resolution, they must meet with a repulse if not a total defeat. They advanced in sight Yesterday in several large bodies, but attempted Nothing of a General nature—Tho in the forenoon there were some smart skirmishes between some of their parties and detachments sent out by me, in which I have the pleasure to inform you our Men behaved with bravery and Intrepidity, putting them to flight when in Open Ground and forcing them from posts they had Seized Two or three times. from some of their wounded Men which fell into our Hands, the appearance of blood in every place where they made their Stand and on the fences they passed, we have reason to beleive they had a good many killed & wounded, tho they did not leave many on the Ground—In number our Loss was very inconsiderable, but in the fall of Lieutt Colo. Knolton I consider It as great, being a brave and good Officer and It may be increased by the death of Major Leitch of the Virginia Regiment who unfortunately received Three Balls thro his side. Having given you a Summary Account of the situation of our Affairs & in such manner as circumstances will admit of I have only to add that I have the honor to be with Sentiments of the highest esteem Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. The Committee have expressed their apprehensions of being Obliged to abandon the Island of Rhode Island & Newport & requested my Opinion—At present I can see no cause for It, & the propriety of the measure must depend upon circumstances—But I should suppose they ought to be very pressing & the Necessity great before they ought to be given up. Most certainly no Immaginary Ills or Necessity should lead to such a measure—At this Time the danger can only be Ideal—and If the Enemy persevere in their plans here & our Men behave as they should do, I am persuaded they will not have an Opportunity to employ their attention elsewhere this Campaig⟨n.⟩


Title: From George Washington to Colonel John Glover, 17 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Glover, John

Sir.
Head Quarters Col. Morriss’s Sept. 17th 1776.

On the receipt of your letter communicating the intelligence from Col. Durkie, respecting the desertion of the militia from Powles hook, I have ordered Col. Williams regiment of militia, amounting to about five hundred men, to march immedy, as a reinforcement to Col. Durkie; Col. Knox will direct what shot & shells, are to be sent over, & I shall give orders that boats be prepared to transport the waggons. Col. Putnam has marked out some works, near Burdetts ferry in order to defend & secure that post; These I request and desire may be carried on with all possible expedition; I think your incampment on the low grounds is altogether improper, and ought to be removed immediately to the heights as I am clear of opinion that when you are attacked by the enemy, it will be in your rear. Yr hhble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Col. Glover will send the letters to Col. Durkie & Genl Mercer immediately.


Title: General Orders, 18 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Harlem-Heights, Sept: 18th 1776.
Jersey.Newport.

The Brigade Majors are immediately to settle a Court Martial for the trial of prisoners; to meet at the white house near Head Quarters.
Commanding Officers of regiments, and all other officers, are charged in the strictest manner, to prevent all plundering, and to seize every Soldier carrying Plunder, whether belonging to the same regiment or not, or on whatever pretence it is taken, and the General positively commands, that such plunderer be immediately carried to the next Brigadier or commanding officer of a regiment, who is instantly to have the offender whipped on the spot.
The Regimental Surgeons are to take care of their own sick for the present, until the General Hospital can be established on a proper footing—They are to keep as near their regiments as possible, and in case of Action to leave their Sick under the care of their Mates, and be at hand to assist the wounded.
Under the pretence of ranging or scouting, the greatest irregularities and excesses have been committed, the General therefore forbids in the most express manner, any such parties, but by his leave, or of the Brigadier General of the day in writing & then always to be under the direction of an officer—The General does not mean to discourage patrolling and scouting Parties, when properly regulated, on the other hand he will be pleased with, and accept the services of any good officers, who are desirous of being thus employed, and will distinguish them.
Genl Parsons, Genl Scott’s and Col. Sergeant’s Brigades are to march over Kingsbridge and take General Heath’s Orders for encamping—Col. Shee, Magaw, Haslett, and the regiment under Col. Brodhead, are to return to Mount Washington, and be under the immediate Care of Genl Mifflin.

Col. Wards Regiment from Connecticut, may for the present, be annexed to the Brigade commanded by Col: serjeant.
Genl Mifflin’s, McDougall’s, Heard’s, Wadworth’s, and Fellow’s Brigades, and the Brigades under the Command of Cols. Silliman & Douglass, are to have each a regiment in the Field this evening, by Mr Kortright’s house.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel John Glover, 18 September 1776
From: Glover, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Burdit’s ferry Sept: 18. 1776.

The express I sent off to Genl Merser is this moment returned being obliged to go to Amboy to find him. Inclosed is his letter to your Excellency.
Col. Bawldwin’s Regit is much in want of tents, there being none to be had here, nor any barns but what are taken for the

sick. The men by being so much exposed, I fear will be all sick, & very soon unfit for duty.
The enemy are forming an encampment on the edge of the North River, about one mile below the ground where the Battle was fought on Monday last. I have moved the Brigade up the hill about one & half from the ferry. Col. Bradley’s Regt is posted between my Brigade & Pawles Hook. The Asia man-of-war passed by that post nine o’clock this morning; Col. Durke saluted her with 5 shots, 32 pounders, which was not returned. Col. Durke expects to be reinforced with 500 men from Gen. Merser, when he hopes to defend the fort should he be attacked. I am with duty & respect Your Excellencys most obedient Huml. Sert

John Glover


Title: From George Washington to Colonel John Glover, 18 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Glover, John

Head Quarters, Col. Morriss’s, September 18, 1776.

Sir: The inconveniences Col. Baldwin’s regiment must of necessity be exposed to, for the want of tents, is a circumstance I can only lament but cannot remedy; to supply them from this place is altogether out of my power, as one half of the brigades from here are in the same situation; all I can say on the subject is to recommend to you, the building of huts in the most convenient manner the nature of the case will admit of, to answer the present purpose, until proper barracks can be erected; where these huts are to be placed, as also the propriety of continuing your present encampment so far distant from the ferry as a mile and a half, will be determined upon the spot by Gen. Green and yourself; he is gone to visit your quarters to day. I am, etc.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 18 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Head Qrs at Colo. Roger Morris’s House Septr 18th 1776
Sir

As my Letter of the 16th contained Intelligence of an Important nature, and such as might lead Congress to expect, that the evacuation of New York and retreat to the Heights of Harlem in the manner they were made, would be succeeded by some other Interesting event, I beg leave to inform them, that as yet nothing has been attempted upon a large and general plan of Attack.
About the time of the posts departure with my Letter, the Enemy appeared in several large bodies upon the plains about Two & a half miles from hence. I rode down to our advanced posts to put matters in a proper situation if they should attempt to come on. When I arrived there, I heard a firing which I was informed was between a party of our Rangers under the Command of Lieutt Col. Knolton, and an advanced party of the Enemy. Our Men came in & told me that the body of the Enemy, who kept themselves concealed consisted of about three Hundred as near as they could guess. I immediately ordered three Companies of Colo. Weedons Regiment from Virginia under the command of Major Leitch & Col. Knolton with his Rangers, composed of Volunteers from different New England Regiments, to try to get in their Rear, while a disposition was making as If to attack them in front, and thereby draw their whole attention that way. This took effect as I wished on the part of the Enemy. On the appearance of our party in front, they immediately ran down the Hill, took possession of some fences & Bushes and a Smart firing began, but at too great a distance to do much execution on either side. The parties under Colo. Knolton & Major Leitch unluckily began their attack too soon, as It was rather in flank than in Rear. In a little time Major Leitch was brought off wounded, having received Three Balls thro his side, and in a short time after Colo. Knolton got a wound which proved mortal. Their Men however persevered &

continued the Engagement with the greatest resolution. Finding that they wanted a support, I advanced part of Colo. Griffiths and Colo. Richardson’s Maryland Regiments with some detachments from the Eastern Regiments who were nearest the place of Action. These Troops charged the Enemy with great Intrepidity and drove them from the Wood into the plain, and were pushing them from thence, (having silenced their fire in a great measure) when I judged It prudent to order a Retreat, fearing the Enemy (as I have since found was really the case) were sending a large Body to support their party. Major Leitch I am in hopes will recover, But Colo. Knolton’s fall is much to be regretted, as that of a brave & good Officer. We had about Forty wounded, the Number of Slain is not yet ascertained, but It is very inconsiderable. By a Serjeant who deserted from the Enemy & came in this Morning, I find that their party was greater than I immagined—It consisted of the 2d Batallion of Light Infantry, a Batallion of the Royal Highlanders & Three Companies of the Hessian Rifle Men, under the command of Brigadr Genl Leslie. The Deserter reports that their loss in Wounded & Missing was Eighty Nine, and Eight killed—In the latter, his Account is too small as Our people discovered and buried double that Number. This Affair I am in hopes will be attended with many salutary consequences, as It seems to have greatly inspirited the whole of our Troops. The Serjeant further adds, that a Considerable body of Men are now encamped from the East to the North River, between the Seven & Eight mile Stones under the command of Genl Clinton—Genl Howe he beleives has his Quarters at Mr Apthorps House. I have the Honor to be with Sentiments of the highest regard & esteem Sir Yr Most Obedt Sert

Go: Washington

P.S. I should have wrote Congress by Express before now, had I not expected the post every Minute which I flatter myself will be a sufficient Apology for my delaying It.
The late losses we have sustained in our Baggage & Camp necessaries have added much to our distress which was very great before, I must therefore take the Liberty of requesting Congress to have forwarded as soon as possible such a supply of Tents, Blankets, camp Kettles and Other Articles as can be collected. We cannot be ovrstocked.

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 18 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Sir.
Head Quarters. Col. Morriss’s Sept. 18th 1776.

I have now your letter of Sept. 18th before me; and cannot say that I, by any means approve of your proposal of sending artillery to annoy the frigate, and the Enemy’s batteries on Montrasure’s Island; in my opinion, it would only endanger the loss of our cannon, & waste our ammunition, without answering any one good or salutory purpose.
With respect to the sick, I am as much afflicted at their situation as you or any other person can possibly be, and have taken every step in my power to prevent it; I have furnish’d money to officers chosen by the commanders of different regiments, for the purpose of providing suitable & proper accomodations for the convalescents, and as to the others I have this morning spoke to Doctor Mcknight on the subject and have recommended in the strongest manner to him to fall upon every

method the nature of the case will admit of for their relief; and I request you will give him every assistance in your power towards effecting this salutary end.
I have ordered over to you, Parsons’s Scott’s and Sergents brigades, to which will be added Col. Ward’s regiment, and Haslett’s Shee’s, McGaw’s & Atlee’s battalions are to come to this place; you will post these brigades in the most advantageous manner; for the present I do not concieve you are in any great danger of being attacked on that quarter, as I have recieved intelligence that the enemy have drawn over their principal force to this Island. I am Sir Yr hhble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Hugh Mercer, 18 September 1776
From: Mercer, Hugh
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Perth Amboy [N.J.] 18 Sept. 1776

At the same time that I ordered a Reinforcement to Powlis Hook I wrote to Col. Derkee to know the State of that Post as to force—For tho Col. Humpton had been but a few days ago on that Spot to bring me an exact Return—such is the ever fluctuating State of our Melitia and infamous Desertion—that we are not at any one Post two days in the same State as to Numbers—Your Excellencys Letter was deliverd late last night—I shall

regulate the force sent to Powlis Hook agreable to what I hear from Col. Derkee—I expect a Return to my Letter every moment. I have the honour to be Sir Your Excellencys most obedt Servt

Hugh Mercer


Title: To George Washington from Lund Washington, 18 September 1776 [letter not found]
From: Washington, Lund
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lund Washington, 18 Sept. 1776. On 30 Sept. GW wrote Lund Washington: “Your letter of the 18th . . . now lies before me.”


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 19 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Qrs at Colo. Roger Morris’s House Septr 19th 1776

Since I had the honor of addressing you Yesterday, Nothing material has occurred, However It is probable in a little time, the Enemy will attempt to force us from hence, as we are informed they are bringing many of their Heavy Cannon towards the Heights and the Works we have thrown up. they have also

Eight or Nine Ships of War in the North River, which It is said, are to Canonade our right Flank when they open their Batteries against our Front. Every disposition is making on our part for defence, and Congress may be assured that I shall do every thing in my power to maintain the post so long as It shall appear practicable and conductive to the General good. I have the Honor to be Sir Your Most Obedt Sert

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 19 September 1776
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Kingsbridge Sept. 19th 1776

Three Troops of Light Horse, making about 90 Men in the whole, have already got in, & others are nearby—Col. Douglas & Col. Stores’s Regiments of Militia are at West Chester—Col. Williams’s have not reached this as yet, but will move forward as soon as they come in—Col. Stores acquaints me that about 4000 Militia may be expected soon; what will be done with them I cannot tell—They have neither Covering or Camp Utensils, and almost all the houses & Barns for many miles back, as the Officers inform me are filled with the Sick of the different Brigades of the Army—The Militia are also destitute of Ammunition, owing to the badness of a Quantity of Gunpowder lately made in that State, & on which they depended for a Supply—I shou’d be glad to know your Excellency’s Pleasure, if they are to be Supplied & with how much.
This morning about Ten O’Clock I was informed that one of Col. Broadhead’s Battalions of Riflemen had drawn up, & were determined to march home—I immediately ordered several Regiments under Arms, & then rode to them—They were partly dispersed before I came to them (about one Company remained) I demanded the Reasons of their Mutinous Behavior; they replied the want of money & Blankets, & the Severe Duty of the Camp; that they were Volunteers &c. I ordered them immediately to repair to their Tents (or the Severest punishment shou’d be inflicted) which they did in an orderly manner[.] I am

since informed, that a number of them previous to this had gone off, Six or Seven of whom, are taken & committed to the main Guard, & others I am told are taken between this & Dobbs’s Ferry—I am just informed that the other Rifle Battalion of Pensylvanians are extremely uneasy, & talk of going home in a Body, I hope they will be removed this night to the Island—They are retarded this Day by the Waggons being employed in fetching hay &c. from Morrissania, & the Horses engaged in moving the Heavy Cannon And the Boats being ordered to Burditt’s Ferry, to ferry over Waggons &c. by means of which they cannot get over their Baggage.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Howe, 19 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, William

Sir
Head Quarters [Harlem Heights] 19 Sepr 1776

I have the honor to advise you, that in Consequence of Genl Sullivan’s Information, first by Letter and afterwards verbally, that you were willing to exchange him for Maj. Genl Prescot, and Brig. Genl Lord Stirling for any Brigadier of yours in our possession; I wrote to Congress to send Genl prescot to some convenient place from whence the proposed Exchange might be made. And supposing that it would be agreeable to exchange Lord Stirling for Brig. Genl McDonald, he is also come forward with Genl prescot—Both those Gentlemen are now at Elizabeth Town and I only wait your Answer to this, in which you will please to fix the time and place when and where the Exchanges may be effected. I am Sir with due Respect.


Title: From George Washington to the Massachusetts General Court, 19 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Massachusetts General Court

Gentn
Head Qrs at Colo. Rogr Morris’s House 10 Miles from New York Septr 19th 1776

I was honored the night before last with your favor of the 13th Inst. and at the same time that I conceive your anxiety to have been great by reason of the vague & uncertain accounts you received respecting the attack on Long Island, give me leave to assure you that the situation of our Affairs and the Important concerns which have surrounded me & which are daily pressing on me, have prevented me from transmitting in many Instances the Intelligence I otherwise should have conveyed.
In respect to the attack and retreat from Long Island, the public papers would furnish you with accounts nearly true—I shall only add, that in the former, we lost about Eight Hundred Men, more than three fourth’s of which were taken prisoners. This misfortune happened in a great measure, by Two detachments of our people who were posted in Two Roads leading thro a Wood, in order to Intercept the Enemy in their March, suffering a Surprize and making a precipitate retreat, which enabled the Enemy to lead a great part of their force against the Troops commanded by Lord Stirling which formed a third detachment, who behaved with great bravery and resolution charging the Enemy & maintaining their posts from about Seven or Eight OClock in the Morning till Two in the Afternoon, when they were obliged to attempt a retreat, being Surrounded and overpowered by Numbers on all sides, & in which many of them were taken—One Battallion—Smallwoods of Maryland, lost Two hundred & Fifty Nine men and the General damage fell upon the Regiments from Pensylvania, Delaware & Maryland and Colo. Huntington’s of Connecticut. As to the retreat from the Island, It was effected without loss of Men and with but a very little baggage. A few Heavy Cannon were left, not being moveable on account of the Grounds being soft & miry through the Rains that had fallen. The Enemy’s Loss in killed, we could

never ascertain, but we have many reasons to beleive that It was pretty considerable and exceeded ours a good deal—The Retreat from thence was absolutely necessary, the Enemy having landed the Main body of their Army there to attack us in front, while their Ships of War were to cut off all communication with the City from whence Resources of Men, provisions &c. were to be drawn.
Having made this Retreat, not long after, we discovered by their Movements and the Information we received from Deserters and Others, that they declined attacking our Lines in the City and were forming a plan to get in our rear with their Land Army by crossing the Sound above us, and thereby cut off all Intercourse with the Country and every necessary Supply. The Ships of War were to cooperate, possess the North River, and prevent Succours from the Jersey’s &c. This plan appearing probable and but too practicable in Its execution, It became necessary to guard against the fatal consequences that must follow If their Scheme was effected for which purpose I caused a removal of a part of our Stores, Troops &c. from the City, and a Council of Genl Officers determined on Thursday last that It must be entirely abandoned, holding up however every shew and Appearance of defence, till Our sick and All our Stores could be brought away. The Evacuation being resolved on every exertion in our power was made to baffle their designs and effect our Own. The Sick were Numerous and an Object of great Importance—happily we got them away, but before we could bring off all our Stores, On Sunday Morning Six or Seven Ships of War which had gone up the East River above the City some few days before, began a most severe & Heavy Cannonade to Scour the Grounds and effect a Landing of their Troops. Three Ships of War also ran up the North River that Morning above the City to prevent our Boats and small Craft carrying away our Baggage &c.—I had gone the Evening before to the Main body of our Army which was posted about the Heights & plains of Harlem where It seemed probable from the Movements & dispositions of the Enemy they meant to land & make an Attack the next morning. However the Event did not happen. I immediately on hearing the Canonade rode with all possible expedition towards the place of landing and where Breast Works had been thrown up to secure our Men, & found the Troops that had

been posted there to my great surprize and Mortification retreating with the utmost precipitation, & those ordered to their support, (Parson’s & Fellows’s Brigades,) notwithstanding the exertions of their Generals to form ’em, running away in the most shamefull and disgracefull manner. I used every possible effort to rally them but to no purpose, & on the appearance of a small part of the Enemy (not more than Sixty or Seventy in Number) they ran off without firing a Single Shot. Many of our Heavy Cannon would have inevitably fallen into the Enemy’s Hands as they landed so soon, but this scandalous conduct occasioned a loss of many Tents, Baggage & Camp Equipage which would have been easily secured, had they made the least Opposition. The retreat was effected without any or but with the loss of three or Four Men at most. We Encamped & still are on the Heights of Harlem which are well calculated for defence against their Approaches. On Monday Morning they advanced in sight in Several large bodies, but Attempted nothing of a Genl nature. Tho there were Smart Skirmishes between their advanced parties and some detachments from our Lines which I sent out. In these Our Troops behaved with great resolution and bravery putting them to flight in open Ground & forcing them from posts they had Seized Two or three Times. A Serjeant who deserted from them says the report was they had Eighty nine missing & wounded & Eight killed, in the last Instance his Account is too small because our people have buried more than Twice as many. In number our Loss was very inconsiderable, but in the fall of Lt Colo. Knolton of Connecticut, I consider It as great, being a brave and good Officer. Major Leitch who commanded a detachment from the Virginia Regiment unfortunately received Three Balls thro his side. he still supports his Spirits and seems as If he would do well; Col. Knolton was Interred with every Honor due to his Merit & that the Situation of things would admit of. Since this Affair Nothing has happened—The Enemy It is said are bringing forward several Heavy Cannon to force us from the Heights. At the same time that they open their Batteries in Front their Ships of War, Seven or Eight of which are in the North River, are to Canonade our Right Flank—Thus have I run over in a cursory, rough way an Account of the most material Events from the Battle on Long Island to the present moment, I have not time to study order or Elegance—This

However I do not so much mind, and only wish my Narrative was more agreable—but we must set down things as they are—I hope they will be better, nothing on my part shall be wanting to bring about the most favourable Events.
I am now to make my most gratefull acknowledgements to your Honorable body for the Succour they mean to afford me in the Militia lately ordered and have only to lament that they should be so unprovided with Tents and other Camp necessaries—Our distresses in these Instances are extremely great, having by no means a sufficiency for the Troops already here, nor do I know, how they can be procured. I am at a loss for the Officers Names who command this Reinforcement, as they are not mentioned—However I have wrote by Fessendon that they should lead the Men on as fast as possible, sending before them when they get within Two or three days March of Kingsbridge an Officer to receive Orders from me, how they are to be disposed of. Instructions given now might become improper by the Intervention of a variety of Circumstances. I have the Honor to be with unfeigned esteem & respect Gentn Your Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 20 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Harlem Heights, Septr 20th 1776.
Spain.France.

As many of the Regiments that came last from New York have lost their Tents and cooking Utensils (not from any default of

their own, but want of teams, and vessels, to bring them of in time) by which means one part of the Army are greatly distressed, whilst the other part are comfortably supplied; the General earnestly advises and directs the Colonels and commanding Officers of such Corps as have not suffered, to store their men thicker in their tents, and lend all they can spare, to their suffering fellow-soldiers, ’till such time as others can be provided—The tents &c. are to be sent to Genl Spencer’s, at Mr Kartright’s house, who will cause them to be delivered to the regiments standing most in need of them, which regiments are to be answerable for them when called for.
The General hopes, that soldiers fighting in such a cause as ours, will not be discouraged by any difficulties that may offer; and informs them that the Grounds he now possesses are to be defended at all events; Any Officer, or Soldier therefore, who (upon the Approach, or Attack of the Enemy’s Forces, by land or water) presumes to turn his back and flee, shall be instantly Shot down, and all good officers are hereby authorized and required to see this done, that the brave and gallant part of the Army may not fall a sacrifice to the base and cowardly part, or share their disgrace in a cowardly and unmanly Retreat. The Heights we are now upon may be defended against double the force we have to contend with, and the whole Continent expects it of us: But that we may assist the natural strength of the ground, as much as possible, and make our Posts more secure, the General most earnestly recommends it to the commanding Officers of every Brigade, and Regiment, to turn out every man they have off duty, for fatigue, and apply to Col. Putnam for tools, and directions where and how to work—This Measure is also earnestly recommended to the men, as it will tend greatly to their own security & ease, as the Guards will be lessened in proportion as the grounds get strengthened.
Genl Green is to appoint some careful officer at Burdett’s ferry to examine passengers, and see that none come over but such as have proper passes—Genl Mifflin is to do the same on this side, to prevent disaffected, or suspected persons, from passing—If Capt: Johnson, and the other Gentlemen who were employed in this business, at New-York, incline to engage in it again, they are to have the preference given them.

The Colonels, or commanding officers of the Militia regiments, now in the service, may make out their Pay-Abstracts in order to receive payment—they will be particularly attentive in doing it, as the disorderly manner, in which many of those men, have left the service, will require the utmost care, to prevent impositions on the public; And the Congress having resolv’d, that all Continental Troops and the Militia going home from service shall restore all Continental Arms, and other property; and also all Ammunition remaining in their possession, at the time of their being about to return, or to have the value of it deducted.
The Guards will be relieved at four O’Clock this Afternoon, after which they are to be relieved constantly and regularly at Nine O’Clock every day.
The General desires that the Brigade Majors may attend him precisely at seven O’Clock to morrow morning, and account for the remissiness in their several departments, as he is determined to put up with no more negligence in office—He expects the punctual attendance of the whole.
Genl Wadsworth must look out a good person to do the duty of his brigade.
Commanding and other Officers of regiments, are to collect the horses straying about their Encampments, and send them to the Quarter-Master General or one of his Deputies—the Uses these horses may answer when properly employed, will be an inducement to every officer to exert himself.
The officers of the Guard at Kingsbridge to be careful, that no Soldiers take horses over the Bridge, tho’ such soldier should have a common pass. Every person riding without a saddle, is to be immediately taken up, and the horse sent to the Quarter Master ’till released by further Orders.
The scarcity of Fodder makes it necessary that no horses should come into Camp, but what belong to the Army; All Visitants therefore are to leave their horses beyond the Bridge, unless they obtain a special Order from some General Officer, or Commandant of a Brigade.
Genl Bell, Brigadier of the day, to meet the Guards at four O’Clock, on the parade, and report immediately, what Brigade Major fails of bringing his proportion of Guards, at the time.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel William Crawford, 20 September 1776
From: Crawford, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Williamsburgh Sepr the 20th 1776

I Should have bin Glad to have the honour of being with you at new York, but I am Doutfull we Shall be envolved in an Endien War to the Westward, as the Shawnees and Dallowas Seem in Dout and from the Last Accounts from Fortpitt had not meet our people (Do[c]ter Walker and the Comisioners) [w]ho was Sent to treet with them from this Government.
I Should have com to new York with those Reget ordred their but the Regt I belong to is Ordred to this place.
If a War With the Westerly Endiens hapen I am to go there.
I this Spring before I com from over the mountain calld at Simpsons to See your Mill go for the first tim of its Runing and can Ashure you I think it the best Mill I ever saw any where tho I think one of a less Value would have don as well. If you Remember you Saw Som Rocks at the Mill Seet Those are as fine Millston Greet as any in Ameraca, the Millright told me the Stones he got for your Mill there was Equil to Inglish Burrs, Your Land on Shurtees Creek is well Cultiveted Redy to your hand, the men on it thinking you have no patent for that Land or that if you have that you will Lease them the Land on Reasonable tearms.
at our Last Convention I Mentiond the State of Lands and the Stat of the Claiments in Genaral and a mongest other Surcomstances Mentiond the Expense you had bin at in haveing the first improvements on that Land And then Laying a warrent on them and notwithstanding those person would take it at any rate upon which an Ordenance passd that all Equitable Claims Should take place Som I understand has since bin trying to Sell there right of your Land but I have had Som Advertizements

Printed and Sent up for warning any Person to Purchess those Land Seting forth your title.
I have Laid the ballance of your warrent on Som Land on the river that I think will Sute but has not got it run out to my Mind as there is som Disput and I believe I shall by them out If I can reasonable.
Excuse the Lenth of this Letter I Shall only ad that I wish you to Injoy Life health and overcom all Enemies and Should be hapy to See you once more injoy your self in Pleashure at Mountvernon. I am Sir your most Hume Sorvont

W. Crawford


Title: To George Washington from Patrick Henry, 20 September 1776
From: Henry, Patrick
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir.
Williamsburgh Sept. 20th 1776

After a long & Severe Illness, I am now but just able to come hither in Order to discharge as I may be able, the Dutys of my public Station. Will you pardon me for asking the Favor of a Correspondence with you? Besides the pleasure it will give me, I shall be taught by your Ideas, to form more correct Opinions, of those Movements that may be proposed for the general Defence in this Quarter. It is conjectured by Some, that the Enemys Cruisers will come to the South at the End of the Campaign. In the mean Time the Navigation is open. I wish that Circumstance may be well improved.
We have beat the Cherokees in some hot Skirmishes with inferiour Numbers. Colo. Christian marches very shortly with abt 1750 men agt the overhill Towns at which the whole Nation is or must shortly be collected. I doubted whether there were men enough ordered for the Service; but the Colo. thot the Number Sufficient. I hear from good Authority that the Creeks observe a Neutrality & refuse to assist our Enemys, So that I think they will stand the Brunt alone except the Assistance of a few Renegade Shawanese Mingo’s &c. The Eastern Towns of the Cherokees are destroyed & 1800 men from S. Carolina (as I’m this day told by a Capt. in Gadsden’s Regiment) were marching agt the middle Settlements, but did not propose going to the overhill Towns.
We have heard of the Affair at Long Island. I trust every virtuous man will be stimulated by it to fresh Exertions. My poor friend Sullivan I hear is a prisoner, & Report says at Congress to offer Terms of peace. I should not think he would be the Bearer of disadvantageous Offers.
I can readily guess the infinite Variety of Affairs with which you are worried. God grant you may end the glorious Work in which you are so nobly engaged, & be crown’d with Success.

With Sentiments of the most perfect Esteem I am Dear sir yr most obt Servt

P. Henry Jr.


Title: From George Washington to the New York Convention, 20 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: New York Convention

Head-Quarters, Heights of Harlem, Septr. 20th, 1776.

Gentn.—Having reason to believe the enemy will attempt to gall us with their ships of war from the North river as soon as they are ready to open their batteries against the front of our lines, which we expect them to erect with great industry, I beg leave to mention that I think it may be of immense consequence if your Honourable Body will order down some of your fire ships, which may lay just above the obstructions in the river under cover of the guns of Fort Washington, where they will be ready to act in case the ships should attempt to come up.
Hurried and surrounded with a thousand things, I have only time to add, that I have the honor to be, with great esteem, Gentn. your most obt. st.

GO. WASHINGTON.


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 20 September 1776
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Lebanon [Conn.] Septemr 20th 1776

Since the receipt of your Favour of the 9th Instant our nine Regiment of Foot under Command of Brigadier General Saltonstall, and Two Regiments of Horse under the Command of Major Backus have begun their March, with Orders to rendezvous at or near West Chester, and there to attend your Orders, and trust that many of them are arrived there, as the rest will soon.
It gives Me great Concern to learn that so many of our Militia have refused to submit to proper Discipline, and that such Numbers have deserted as to reduce those that remain to about two Thousand; tis certain that by their Absence they were great Sufferers in point of Interest, yet this is far from justifying their Desertion, which ought not to pass unnoticed; I must therefore Intreat your Excellency as soon as it can be conveniently done,

to order Returns to be made of all such Deserters and Communicate them to Me, that proper Measures may be taken with them either by returning them to their Corps, mulcting them of their Wages or otherwise; if the Militia may Desert with Impunity there is an End of their Usefullness. I am, with Sincere Esteem & Regard Sir Your most Obedient humble Servant

Jonth; Trumbull


Title: General Orders, 21 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Harlem Heights, Sept: 21st 1776
Lisbon.Dover.

If the Quarter Master General has any Sails, or other Covering; he is to deliver them to Genl Spencer’s order, who will see that the regiments most in need of it, now under his immediate command, are first supplied.
The General earnestly exhorts the commanding Officers of every Regiment, and Corps, to fall upon the best and most expeditious method of procuring Cloaths and Necessaries for their men before the season gets too far advanced—For this purpose they are hereby authorised to send out one or more officers, as the nature of the case shall require, and the service will admit of, to purchase and provide them.
Generals Putnam and Spencer, together with the several Brigadiers, on this side Kingsbridge, are to look over the Grounds within our lines, and fix upon places to build Barracks, or Huts, for quartering the men in. No time should be lost in making the choice, that covering may be had as soon as possible, for the ease and comfort of the men.
It is earnestly recommended to all Brigadiers & commanding Officers of Corps, to see or know that the Orders relative to their respective Brigades &c. are complied with; and they as well as commanding Officers of Regiments &c., are requested to attend particularly to the state of the men’s health, that those that are really Sick, may be supplied in the best manner our situation and circumstances will admit of, whilst such as feign themselves Sick, merely to get excused from duty, meet with no kind of countenance, or favour, as it only tends to throw the burden

upon the spirited and willing men, who disdain such scandalous practices. The General would remind all officers, of the indispensible necessity there is of each of them, exerting himself in the Department he acts, and that where this is the case of the advantages resulting from it, as an Army, let it be ever so large, then moves like Clock-work; whereas, without it, it is no better than an ungovernable Machine, that serves only to perplex and distract those who attempt to conduct it.
The Brigadier Generals, and the Brigade-Major, of the day, are both to attend the parade, at the hour of mounting Guard; see them brought on and marched off, and so continue near the advanced lines ’till they are relieved the next day, in order that they may be ready in case of an Attack, to command at the lines—When they are relieved, they are to report extraordinaries to the Commander in Chief.


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. William Heath, 21 September 1776 [letter not found]
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. William Heath, 21 Sept. 1776. On this date William Grayson wrote to Heath: “In answer to your letter of this date, I am commanded by his Excy to inform you that he thinks it expedient that an officer with about twenty five men should be immediately sent to Dobbs ferry; and that the Pensylvany troops under your command should be marched directly for this place; he is of opinion it is adviseable they sho⟨ul⟩d be paid off here” (MHi: Heath Papers).


Title: To George Washington from Abraham Yates, Jr., 21 September 1776
From: Yates, Abraham Jr.
To: Washington, George

In Convention of the Representatives of the State of New York—Fishkill September 21st 1776.
Sir

The Convention have received your Excellency’s Letter of Septr 20th And have in consequence entered into the inclosed Resolution which I am directed to transmit: we are sorry that it is not in our Power to send down more than two fire Ships as they have no more charged in such a manner as to be depended on. A Committee of Correspondence has been established by the Convention for the purpose of communicating to, and receiving Intelligence from the Army—the Express will receive Orders to call upon your Excellency Daily—and any Commands or Intelligence which your Excellency may think proper to transmit will be thankfully received, and punctually attended to by—Your Excellency’s most Obedient Servant

By Order.
Abm Yates Junr President


Title: General Orders, 22 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Harlem Heights, Septr 22nd 1776.
Hampton.Newark.

The Court Martial of which Col. Sage was President is dissolved—The Brigade Majors to form a new one immediately—Col. Magaw to preside, to meet to morrow at Head-Quarters, Nine O’Clock—The Brigade Majors to give notice to the officers of their respective brigades.
There is a shameful deficiency of Officers at Guard-Mounting and other duty—The Brigade Majors are to put in Arrest, any officer, who being warned, does not attend his duty, unless excused by the Brigadier General.
The many Complaints that are hourly made of plundering both public and private property, induces the General to direct that every Regiment be paraded at five O’Clock this evening, the Knapsacks and Tents of the whole to be examined under the inspection of the Field Officers, and all Articles, not the proper Baggage and Accoutrements of a Soldier, set apart, and kept by the Colonel, or commanding Officer, ’till Inquiry can be made, how they came possessed of them—A Report is expected from the commanding Officer of the regiment, to Head Quarters, whether any Articles are found, or not—And the General depends upon the Honor of the officers, to inspect carefully, and make a faithful report.
It is with particular pleasure that the General has it in his power to inform the officers and soldiers, who have been wounded in their Country’s Cause, and all others whose lot it may be to be disabled, that The Congress have come to the following resolution. (Viz.)
“That Officers and Privates, loosing a Limb in any Engagement, or who shall be so disabled in the service of the United States of America, as to render them incapable of getting a livelihood, shall receive half of their Monthly-Pay, during life, or the continuance of their disability, from the time their pay ceases as officers, or soldiers.
“Also such officers, or soldiers, as are wounded in any Engagement, and rendered incapable of service, tho’ not totally disabled from getting a livelihood, shall receive Monthly, such Sums towards their Subsistence, as the Assembly, or Representative

Body of the state, they belong to, or reside in, judge adequate; they producing in the cases above-mentioned, to the Committee, or Officer appointed to receive the same, in the State, where they reside, or belong, or to the Assembly, or Legislative Body of such State, a Certificate from the Commanding Officer, who was in the Engagement, in which they were wounded, or in case of his death, from some other officer of the same Corps, and the Surgeon that attended them; of their names, office, rank, department, regiment & company, the nature of their wounds and in what action or engagement they were wounded.”
The Brigadier of the day, where the Guards mount at the lines, is to give strict charge to all the officers, not to suffer any person whatsoever, to go beyond the out-Sentries, without an Order in writing from himself—All the Sentries are to be informed of this, and if any person whatever presume to disobey the Orders, they are to fire upon [him] in the same manner as they would do on a common Enemy. Any persons coming in from the Enemy’s lines are to be carried to the Brigadier of the day immediately for examination, who is to take their information in writing, and send it with the person or persons to the Commander in Chief—The Brigadier is to see that a chain of Sentries extend from the North River to Harlem River, beyond which no Stragglers are to pass.
The officer commanding the Scouts, is to attend at Head Quarters, at seven O’Clock, every morning, to know if there are any orders for these Corps.
The commanding Officers of the several regiments, are to be particularly attentive, in seeing that their men are supplied with Ammunition, and that they account reguarly for the Cartridges delivered to them: They are not to suffer any Pieces to be discharged at Retreat-beating, but such as will not fire in an Engagement, & cannot be drawn. The great Waste of Ammunition is such, that unless the officers will exert themselves to see justice done to the public, a sufficiency cannot be kept upon hand to supply them.
Mr Josiah Adams is appointed Paymaster to Col. Little’s Regiment, and Mr Elisha Humphreys to Col. Webb’s Regiment.
The Court Martial whereof Col. Sage was President having found Ebenezer Liffenwell of Capt: Clift’s Company and Col.

Durkee’s Regt guilty of “Cowardice and Misbehaviour before the Enemy on Monday last”—and also of “presenting his Firelock at his superior Officer, when turning him back a second time”; which by the 27th Article of the Rules and Regulations of the Army is Death—He is accordingly adjudged to suffer Death.
The General approves the sentence, and orders that he be shot at the head of the Army, on the Grand-Parade, near Kartright’s house, to morrow morning at eleven O’Clock—The Men of the several Regiments below Kingsbridge, not upon Fatigue or Guard are to march down at that hour—The Provost Marshal to attend. Major Henly, acting Deputy Adjt General, will order twelve Men, out of the Guards paraded for duty, to morrow, to execute the sentence.
The same Court Martial having found Ensign McCumber of Capt: Barns’s Company, and Col. Serjeant’s Regt guilty of the infamous Crime of “plundering the Inhabitants of Harlem”—and ordered him to be cashiered—The General approves the sentence and orders him to be turned out of the Army immediately as an officer.


Title: To George Washington from William Duer, 22 September 1776
From: Duer, William
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Fishkill [N.Y.] September 22d 1776

The Convention of this State have established a Committee of Correspondence for the purpose of facilitating the Intercourse of Intelligence betwixt this Place and Head Quarters. I am directed by that Committee (of which I have the Honor of being a Member) to order their Express to wait on Your Excellency daily to know your Commands, and to receive such Accounts of the Operations of our Army as your Excellency’s leizure will admit you to inform us of.
Captain Cooke who has been employed in sinking the Vessels opposite to Mount Washington informed me in his way to Poukeepsie, that he is apprehensive the Cheveux de frise which are sunk in the River may not be sufficient for stopping the Enemy’s Ships, and he is of Opinion, that it would tend much, to render the Obstructions effectual, to sink five or Six Vessels, to the northward of the Cheveux de frise. In Consequence of this Information, the Convention of this State, ever sollicitous to exert themselves in effecting so important an Object as the Obstruction

of the Navigation of the River; have entered into the enclosed Resolutions which I have the Honor to transmit to your Excellency—they have likewise given the necessary directions for supplying you with a quantity of oak Plank, agreable to General Clintons Request in a late Letter. I have the Honor to be, with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s most Obedient humble Servt

Wm Duer.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 22 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Camp near Kingsbridge Sept. 22d 1776

I had flattered myself that the Congress would before this Time have forwarded the amended Articles for the Government of the Army. But as they have not I think it my indispensable Duty to lay before them the Necessity, the absolute Necessity of forming an Article against plundering, marauding & burning of Houses—such a Spirit has gone forth in our Army that neither

publick or private Property is secure—Every Hour brings the most distressing Complaints of the Ravages of our own Troops who are become infinitely more formidable to the poor Farmers & Inhabitants than the common Enemy. Horses are taken out of the Continental Teams—The Baggage of Officers & the Hospital Stores, even the Quarters of General Officers are not exempt from Rapine.
Some severe & exemplary Punishment to be inflicted in a summary Way must be immediately administered, or the Army will be totally ruined—I must beg the immediate Attention of Congress to this Matter as of the utmost Importance to our Existence as an Army. I am Sir, with due Respect Your most Obed. & very Hbble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 22 September 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Qrs Heights of Harlem Septr 22d 1776

I have nothing in particular to communicate to Congress respecting the Situation of our Affairs, It is much the same as when I had the honor of addressing you last.
On Friday night, about Eleven or Twelve OClock, a Fire broke out in the City of New York, near the New or St Pauls Church, as It is said, which continued to burn pretty rapidly till after Sun rise the next morning. I have not been Informed how the Accident happened, nor received any certain account of the damage. Report says many of the Houses between the Broadway and the River were consumed. I have the Honor to be with great esteem Sir your Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington