Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General John Armstrong, 4 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Armstrong, John

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 4th July 1777

I had the pleasure of receiving yours of the 20th June, some days ago, but the constant hurry I was in during Genl Howe’s late Maneuvres in Jersey must apologize for not answering you sooner.

The spirit with which the Militia of this State and pennsylvania turned out upon the late Alarm far exceeded my most sanguine expectations and I am persuaded must have chagrined Genl Howe, who, I beleive, rather expected support than Opposition from Pennsylvania in particular—The evacuation of Jersey at this time seems to be a peculiar Mark of providence, as the Inhabitants have an opportunity of securing their Harvests of Hay and Grain the latter of which would in all probability have undergone the same fate with many farm Houses, had it been ripe enough to take Fire. The distress of many of the Inhabitants, who were plundered not only of their Effects, but of their provision of every kind, was such, that I sent down several Waggon loads of Meat & Flour to supply their present Wants.
I am yet perplexed to find out the real intentions of the Enemy, but upon a presumption that their Views are up the North River, I have advanced Genl Sullivan’s division as far as Pompton, and the main Body of the Army to this place. In this position I shall lay till I receive more certain information of their designs—I have dismissed all the Militia of this State except about one hundred who serve as a Guard to the Stores at Pompton and succasony plains, and it would be very agreeable to me to have as few as possible of those of Pennsylvania kept in Service, because their time, at this Season of Harvest, is truly valuable to them—As our Boats are up Delaware, a Guard is absolutely necessary over them, I do not think it would be prudent to carry them down yet, for as a great part of the Campaign is to come, Genl Howe may see occasion to renew his operations against Philada indeed we do not know that he has laid them aside, for if he goes round by Sea, we must use the Boats to cross the River in order to meet him.
I am pleased at the honorable mark of distinction that the State of Pennsylvania have conferred upon you by appointing you to the command of their Colonial Troops, and am convinced that by your acceptance of it you will be enabled to render the State and your Country very essential Service, should she herself be attacked or her Assistance demanded by any of her sister Colonies. I am with great Regard Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt.

P.S. I shall be glad to know whether your eldest son is provided for in a way suitable to his Wishes. If he is not I have a Vacancy in one of the 16 Regs. that I think will be worth his acceptance.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Du Coudray, 4 July 1777
From: Du Coudray, Philippe-Charles-Jean-Baptiste Tronson
To: Washington, George

Sir.
at philadelphia 4 Juil. 1777.

I have received yesterday with the most respectfull Gratitude, the answer with which your Excellency has honoured me.
I was not surprised, in finding that you disown’d the Authority which the Commandant of Artillery at springfield pretended to have, to execute the strange demande which he said he had received from the Commanding officer in Canada, to send to that country, twelve pieces of those cannon which arrived by the Amphitrite. it was Evident that your Excellency could not have Given an order which would be so inapplicable to the present Circumstances. which Justifies the officers employed in the Conducting this cannon, in having deferred to obey untill I had taken your Excellency’s further orders.
as to your Excellency’s intention, of leaving at springfield the 21 pieces of old model, which make part of the 52 brought by the amphitrite; and as to Waiting for the other 31, untill ammunition Wagons are Constructed, and Gunners instructed to serve them, I hope the representations Which my duty dictates to me on this matter, will be agreable to you.
By your Excellency’s favour to me, and particularly by that to the Congress which was communicated to me by the board of Warr in which you enter into Every particular, I see that you have been persuaded. 1º. that these 21 pieces, were not transportable; or if they were, it was with Great difficulties. 2º. that they were only fit for putting in embrasures. 3º. that the proper method of rendering them usefull, was to cast them over, and convert them into Lighter pieces; so that a six pounder should weigh only four hundred Wt.
1º. It is erroniously, that your Excellency has been informed, that those pieces which including their carriage do not Exceed the weight of 2500 £, are difficult to transport. We had, Even in the last warr, only one swedish piece to each bataillon. about the third part of the park Cannon Was composed of four pounders Weighing 1100 ct. such as those, Which your Excellency has been told are intransportable; and which, nevertheless, were drawn by four horses at the most, and often by three; the eight pounders of 2000 Weight; the twelves of 3200; the sixteen pounders of 4200; all, without including the Carriages, of which the weight Generaly, is equal to that of the cannon.
During this warr, and since, on the Example of the King of prussia, and that of the Austrians, we have been Enlightened on this head, as upon many others. We sought with reason, to render our Artillery lighter; but as well as those powers, we were far from thinking that we

should banish out the armys all Artillery, whose weight should Exceed 650. which is the weight, of the swedish pieces. for, the new eight pounders which compose in france about the half of the park cannon, weighs 1200, and the new twelve pounders 1800. nevertheless, these pieces very Easily accompany the motions of the Troops; the eight pounders with four horses, and those of Twelve with six.
The proportions which have been Given to this new Cannon, have not rendered them, as light as those of the prussians, and the Austrians. we have thought it was necessary, to limit this lightness, so as to render them transportable, and manageable by men; when on the field of battle. it was not thought prudent, to allighten them more, in order, to avoid the Expensive inconveniency, of being obliged to cast them over again, frequently, as well as to avoid, the disadvantage which would be inevitable, in the reach, by shorting those Guns.
Carefull Experiences have demonstrated, that those sovereigns, who were our patterns, and the King of prussia particularly, had carried the lightning of cannon too far; however, they never did it Even to such an Extreme, as your Excellency proposes, reducing, the pieces of six, to be only of four hundred Weight. the lightest prussian pieces of this bore weighs 600, and the austrians 720 to 750. to reduce this cannon to the weight only of four hundred, Would certainly render it of very little and Even, of a dangerous service, to the Gunners.
2ºyour Excellency, has further been deceived, by being told, that the 21 long pieces, and the others which resemble them, are only proper to be put in Embrasures. tho’ much longer than the swedish pieces, they are yet too short for that purpose. they were only made, for the use of the field, or for firing on a barbette. this last advantage, will render them very convenient, for the defence of small redoubts, and of works of the same Kind, with which your Excellency, may think proper to cover his army; and also, in cannonading the Ennemy at a distance, that the swedish pieces canot reach by their shortness.
3ºyour Excellency, has also been misinformed, in being assured, that no other advantage could be made, of these 21 pieces, but to cast them over, and to make lighter cannon of them. the fundery at springfield not being yet begun, of these. no doubt, your Excellency’s informant, had great dependance on the talents of the french man, who is charged with a foundery at boston. but I must inform your Excellency, that this founder is very ignorant; at least, if I Judge of him, on a pattern of his art, Which Gal heath shewed me at boston as his master piece. the mettle of this Gunn, is Entirely burnt, and it is honey comb’d, of which many, Even in the inside; are large enough to contain, the end of my finger.

however, it is reported that since my departure, he has made a casting, in which he has had good success. but an artist, who does not condemn, and Even destroy, so bad a work as that I have seen, does not impress me, with a great Confidence of his future success, particularly, in a country where he has no master, to rectify his mistakes.
your Excellency perhaps, has not been informed, and I think it my duty to advise him, that the Entire Exemption of holes, is the first quality of a cannon; and that in prussia, in austria, and in france, they are so severe on that head, that, a piece of artillery is left on the founders account, when there found in it a single hole, of the Twelvth of an inch deep, in the chamber.
there are therefore, a very little number of Good founders, and many cheats; who range the world with that supposed quality, of which, they make use, in order to bubble, and catch the money of the states, where they do not find Good Judges; in which, they succeed only, untill some Gunners have lost their arms, in serving those pieces.
As General Knox, has not been, in a situation to Judge of the advantages, or of the imperfections, of the cannon brought by the amphitrite, I must imagine, that all the Erronious insinuations which have been made to your Excellency on that head, came from Major Mauduit du plessis, Gal Knox’s aid de Camp. it would be vain for him, to have Expect’d from this officer, any thing more than Zeal. at the first report of my departure for america, he wrote to me, to be included, in the number of the officers, that our Minister permitted me to chuse, in the body of artillery. I refused his offers, tho’ he was favoured, With the sollicitations of his father, and of one of my relations. his little Experience, his long and frequent absenses, from the schools of artillery, in which, he might have been able to acquire some Knowledge of his profession, were my reasons, for regarding him as an officer, of small utility in this country. doctor franklin no doubt, has had motives of Judging otherwise, since he has sent him. Gal Knox has been pleased to chuse him, for his aid-de-camp. I Congratulate major du plessis on this Event, but he is not able, to be a General of artillery’s councellor, unless this Gal should be willing to be led astray.
Instead of casting over the 21 long pieces, which Even in the hands of a Good founder, Exposes to the danger of losing the mettle, and that, in a Country in which this mettle canot be replaced, major Du Plessis, should have proposed, to saw those pieces, and after that, to turn them, in order to reduce them, to the proportions of the swedish pieces.
It is true, that that supposes a Good turner, as well as the loss of the carriages of those pieces, and their reimplacement by new ones; which, would be a long and Expensive operation.

It is also true, that to propose such an operation, in the midst of a Campaign, when, the use of that cannon, may become of the Greatest importance, is the same, as if a man proposed, to cast over all the spoons of a house, when the dinner was on the table.
Major du Plessis, has not been Wiser, when he has also without doubt, persuaded Gal Knox, that the arrival of those 31 swedish pieces, which he consented however to have brought to the army, would only incumber, as your Excellency says, in his letter to Congress, untill, you might have carriages for their ammunition, and soldiers instructed to manage them.
With a little more Experience, or Even resourse of imagination, major du plessis might have Known, that untill the ammunition carriages were made, it was possible, to make use of the ammunition trunks, such as they are constructed in this country, placing them, upon whatsoever carriages of peasants, covered, with Green hides, which are not scarce in an army.
Major Duplessis, Could have Known, that on account of the Gunners required, for the managing those pieces, that five Men instructed, are Enough for Each of them; and that, Consequently, 155 men only, were required, for the 31 swedish pieces. he ought also to have been acquainted, that the management of those pieces, is so simple, that after Eight days, the dullest soldiers may be perfectly instructed, when they are well taught. this, the officers and sergeants, arrived by the amphitrite, were able to do, from the time of their arrival at boston, if they had had at first, french and German soldiers, from those Companies of artillery, which, since that time, have been sent, from that town to the army, which, they now can do, without interpreter, for which they are obliged, to the residence of about three months, which they have been permitted to make, Either in that town, or on the road; without Giving them, the least opportunity, of Employing themselves, in any service. by which however, they have obtained the advantage, of learning the English language sufficiently, to be understood by the soldiers, who may be put under them for instruction, and many of them can do it much better, than major du Plessis.
these are, sir, the observations, which my duty suggests, for the service to which I am attached. my Zeal for your Glory, and for that of your army, oblige me, to offer them to your Excellency’s consideration; and are the same, which I should have offerd you, if, when I had the honour to take your orders, in coming to this city, you had thought proper, to communicate to me, the ill Grounded ideas, which have been insinuated on this head; in the particulars of which, nobody in this country, not Even your Excellency, can be truly acquainted. I hope, that you will consider these observations, as the first foundation, of

the confidence which I desire to obtain of you, at least, on those things, belonging to a profession, which I have studied, under the ablest master in Europe, with a great application, a frequent residence in the arsenals of all Kinds, and, the Experience of three campaigns, by which, I have acquired a Knowledge, of which the trust, of the supplys of artillery, sent to america by the french court, at least affords a presomption.
I have the honour to address this letter to your Excellency, by Captain de Goy, the ablest officer of artillery, amongst those which I have chosen, with the approbation of our Ministry; who arrived a few days ago, by a ship, which has landed him in caroline. I will send him, if you think it proper, to take the command, of the officers, and the sergeants, attached to the 31 swedish Pieces, which, you have already determined, to have at the army. Captain Loyauté, if your Excellency agrees also, shall remain with the command, of the 21 Longue pieces, untill; on the observations which I have the honour to send to you, it has been determined, wether you persist to cast them, or not; or, if you will order them to the army, at a time, in which they seem so much Required.
the departure of captain de Goy for springfield, is the more necessary, that his presence, may remedy some want of discipline, of which, your Excellency, may have had information a great while, and of which, I was ignorant, as my letters were detained at the camp, and I only received this advice, by the Express, which Captain loyauté sent to me, on account of the singular demand, of the officer commanding in canada.
your Excellency, doubtless, will not have found these Events very Extraordinairy, amongst a collection of thirty persons, all Drawn from different regiments, who have neither pay, nor subsistance, and to whom, I could only give, temporary orders and regulations; as I was not able to forsee, that an affair, which seemed to me so simple, as the ratification of an agreement made, by an agent of the Government, and the arrival of officers and cannon, sollicited in france with so much eagerness, could, suffer such long delays, as those, which have happened. I have the honour to be, with respect. Sir your Excellency’s Most humble and obedient servant

Du Coudray


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Christopher Gadsden, 4 July 1777
From: Gadsden, Christopher
To: Washington, George

 Fort Moultrie, S.C., 4 July 1777. Introduces Charles Cotesworth Pinckney: “I did myself the Honour to write a few Lines to your Excelly the other Day by my Worthy Friend Coll Danl Horry I now beg leave to introduce his Brother in Law Coll Chas Cotesworth Pinckney to your Excelly. He is Coll of the regimt I lately commanded the first of this State, station’d at Fort Moultrie under my immediate Command—He is a polite Spirited, active & Worthy Officer, & tho’ I am sure he has no Occasion for my Assistance to be made known to yr Excelly being so nearly connected with other Gentlemen much better able to do him that Service, yet my sincere regard for him made me unable to forbear contributing my Mite & at least shewing him my good Will on this Occasion.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Robert Howe, 4 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Sir
Head Quarters Camp at Morris Town 4th July 1777.

I was favor’d with your letter accompanied by others to the States of Georgia and North Carolina, a few days since.
When I wrote respecting an expedition against St Augustine, I meant it as recommendatory only, sensible, that you almost on the spot, or however well acquainted with the situation and every attendant circumstance, must be the proper judge; and assure you Sir that the reasons you urge against the expedition operate very forcibly with me, and must say meet with my intire approbation. I am &c.

Geo. W——n


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Robert Howe, 4 July 1777
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

 Charleston, S.C., 4 July 1777. “I was last September near St Johns in East-Florida; a Party sent out to scout the Country on the River, fell in with a small detachment of the Enemy, which they surrounded and made Prisoners—Among these, was a Young Gentleman, by Name James Richardson, who was acting as a Cadet in the Sixteenth Regiment; finding him, when he was brought up, exceedingly unwell and dispirited, I treated him with particular Care & Attention . . . he lived with Me for a considerable time, was treated by the Gentlemen of the Town, with the greatest Attention & Politeness, & I suffered him to visit many Gentlemen in the Country, who, from a Spirit of Generosity, very prevalent in this people, seemed desirous of making his Misfortune as little irksome to him as possible. . . . By a Flag sent from St Augustine, some Letters from Ireland were transmitted him. In these, he was informed that a Relation of his had died, and left him an Estate, which must greatly suffer, without his immediate personal Attention, and that his Mother’s distressed Situation required his Presence . . . The peculiarity of his Situation which rendered the detaining him capitally inconvenient to him, The good Opinion I had of him, and the firm belief I had, that he would have fulfilled his Parole, which if complied with, would have answered every End of detaining him, induced Me with the concurrence of the President of this State, to admit him to return to Ireland, upon the Conditions, expressed in the copy of his Parole, which I do myself the Honor to send You. How far he has complied with it, the enclosed Extracts from some of his intercepted Letters will inform You. Your Excellency will find that he is by his Parole, obliged to return if demanded, and You are the best Judge, whether he should be claimed or not, and will take those Steps you think proper upon it. The ungenerous Abuse of the Confidence I placed in Mr

Richardson, will compel me to confine all those here, who have been admitted to go at large upon Parole, and perhaps ’tho I shall pain my own heart by it, to be very strict with those who may hereafter fall into my Hands. I should be happy to hear from you Sir, and be much oblig’d to You, if You will inform Me what Steps are taken, in respect to a Man, who has made so ungrateful a Return to Obligations so forcible.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 5 July 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philada July 5th 1777.

Since I had the Honour of addressing you on the 24th of June, I have been favoured with the Receipt of your several Letters of the 25th 28th and 30th of that Month, and of the 1st and 2d instant; all which were immediately laid before Congress.
Having Nothing in Charge at this Time, but to transmit the enclosed Resolves, I beg Leave to request your Attention to them; and have the Honour to be, with the utmost Esteem, and Respect Sir, Your most obed. & very hble Servt

John Hancock Prest

A large Supply of Money is on the way. I will Reply to your several Letters as soon as Congress have Determin’d upon them.


Title: From George Washington to James McHenry, 5 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: McHenry, James

Sir
Head Qrs Morristown July 5th 1777.

Your Letter of the 21st Ulto I received on Thursday last, for which I am extremely obliged to you. I never doubted, but that the Treatment of our prisoners in the Hands of the Enemy was such as could not be justified either upon the principles of Humanity or the practice of War. Facts were too stubborn & glaring to admit a more favourable supposition. But had the charge not been supported before your relation would have given it unquestionable authenticity with me. Your Letter convinces me more & more of the justice of my Objection to returning all the prisoners claimed by Genl Howe. As to his charge against our Surgeons, I supposed it illiberal and without Foundation at first. This However, had a seeming tendency to excuse a Conduct, that will always be reprobated by ingenuous minds whenever it is known.
Your Exchange I wish to effect and had no doubt but it would have

taken place long before this as particular directions were given respecting it when Doctr Sanders was sent in. The Commissary of prisoners has written since & requested your parole to be transmitted him, but has never received an Answer. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 5 July 1777
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Albany July 5h 1777.

I do myself the Honor, to transmit you Copies of General St Clair’s Letters to me of the 30th June continued to the first July, together with Copies of those of the 2d & 3d Instant, and two papers inclosed in the last, all of which are numbered in the Order of Time I received them.
Such of the Militia as are passed this or might be at Fort Ann, I have ordered on by the Way of Skenesborough, with Directions, if possible to throw themselves into Tyonderoga, but should they, with such as might join them in that part of the Country be too weak to attempt it, then to remain at Castle Town or other place in that Neighbourhood where the Militia not yet come up may join them.
The Troops from Peek’s Kill have not yet appeared—I wait their Arrival with Anxiety, and the Moment they do, I shall move with them—If they do not arrive by to Morrow I go without them and will do the best I can with the Militia.
The Enemy have had a party at Fort Schuyler, who scalped a Captain

& Corporal of Gansevoort’s Regiment, this with the Threatnings of Joseph Brandt, a natural Son of Sir William Johnson, who commands a party of about two hundred Indians, and the Prospect of being attacked by the Way of Oswego has so dispirited the Inhabitants of Tryon County that I have been obliged to leave Colonel Van Schaick, who has about 150 Continental Troops with him, in that part of the Country, and apprehend that I shall soon be under the Necessity of reinforcing him, if so, I propose to send him some of the Militia destined to the Northward, that we may keep the Continental Troops as much together as possible.
Inclose your Excellency a Return of the Army at Tyonderoga—Should an Accident befal us in that Quarter and the Troops be lost we shall be in a disagreeable Situation, with little else besides Militia; with not a single piece of heavy or light Artillery, and not one Artillery Man. If it be possible, I wish your Excellency to order as many Artillery Men and Field pieces to this Quarter as can be spared, with a competent quantity of fixed Ammunition, as we have no Cartridge paper, and very little of any other.
As part of the provision I sent by the Way of Lake George is returned to that post, I shall now be under the Necessity of drawing it from thence to Fort Ann, that we may attempt to supply the Garrison of Tyonderoga by the Way of Wood Creek and Skenesborough; but should we be incapable of getting a Supply of fresh provisions into that Fortress, I dread the Consequences, as the Hopes I have of obtaining any considerable Quantity of salted Meat are next to none, unless it can be sent from below, a good Deal of what was in this Department being spoiled.
I have transmitted Congress Copys of General St Clair’s Letters. I am Dr Sir respectfully and Sincerely Your Excellency’s most Obedient Humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 5 July 1777
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

My Dear General
Pompton [N.Y.] July 5th 1777

I do myself The Honor to Inclose your Excellencey a Letter from Doctor Cochran to me with a Copy of my answer; as the Doctors Letter was founded on the Complaint I Sent yr Excellencey I Esteem it my Duty to make it known to your Excellencey—when Complaints are made to me I must Take notice of them, or I must not; if the former is the Case I must Insist upon his Letters being an Insult of the most Dangerous Tendency—if the Latter is the Case I Should be glad to know it that I may know how to Conduct in future The Complaint of Hazen & Hall was made to me Early when my Division was on the march, I had neither Time or Authority to appoint a Court I at their request wrote yr Excellency Supposing proper order would be given & the Sick which we were then Sending a Second Time would be properly taken care of. if Such an Insult of This kind is to be Suffered by a Major General for attending to & forwarding the Complaint of Two field officers Commanding Regiments I Should wish to Resign my Commission that I may not by an Inconsiderate Act Disgrace the Rank of Myself & other General officers—I would not Trouble your Excellency with this matter did it not appear to me a matter of Importance to others as well as myself—Since my arrival from New England I agreed to meet an officer of Inferiour Rank at a Time & place he was pleased to appoint for doing what he upon the Spot Acknowledged was Strictly my Duty for this I was Blamed by officers of my own Rank & I Expect as they Said That the Subalterns & Sergeants will never call me to Account for Disapproving their Conduct. I am by no means an Enemy to Duels & most Sincerely wish that Congress had Incouraged Instead of prohibiting them but it is a Question well worth Consideration; Whether if I forward a Complaint against a Surgeon of the General Hospital I must fight all the Sons of Esculapius in Camp or bear their Insults. If this is to be the Case I wish to be Dismissed from the Business of my office that I may have the more Liesure on hand for the purpose & Stand in Such a Line as may not Disgrace myself or others Nor be Accused of Establishing a precedent in our Army unknown in others & which would Effectually destroy all Distinction of Rank & Superiority in Commission, I am Exceeding Easy what Steps Mr Cochran may Think proper to pursue or any others that think themselves Injured by My Conduct I am always prepared to Defend myself against personal Attack but I think this an Insult of Such a kind as Deserves a publick Decision. I Therefore Take the freedom to apply to Your Excellencey for that purpose. Dr General I have the Honor to be with much Respect your Excellenceys most obedient Servant

Jno. Sullivan


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General David Forman, 6 July 1777
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

Sir
Freehold [N.J.] July 6th 1777.

The Very busy Season of the Year renders it impossible to keep out a Sufficient Number of Guards to prevent the Enemy from plundering the Inhabitants, unless I take Post near to Sandy Hook. I have pitched on a peice of Ground that is so near as to prevent all small pillageing Parties coming Off, and at the same Time Commands a full prospect of Amboy, Staten Island, and the Bay as far up as the Narrows. The Ground by Nature is exceedingly Strong, a Small, but High Hill, Steep on every Side and only to be Approached through a Plain. A Small Redoubt with Two peices of Light Artillery would enable 150 Men to maintain it against a Large Number untill the Militia Could be Assembled to the Releif of the Garrisson, Without, they would be Verry Subject to be Surrounded and taken before they Could Possibly be Supported, as was the Case Last Winter.
If Your Excellency thinks proper to Indulge me with Two Iron Three or Four pounders Mounted on Travelling Carriages, and a proper Supply of Stores for them, I will have no Doubt of keeping the Gentry in good Order and be Enabled to furnish Accounts of every Movement of the Enemy’s Shipping. There are I am well inform’d a Number of Peices such as I request in Philadelphia, that are and in all Probability will be useless. I have raised a Small Militia Artillery Company for the Purpose.
I had Came into me the 4th of this Instant 4 Deserters from the British New Levies—Three of them had been taken at Bound Brook the other a Seaman and Compelled to enlist to obtain their Enlargement—Two of them I gave passes to Join Colon. Hands Regiment of Riflemen to whose Corps they belonged, the Other Two I sent to the Commanding Officer at Philadelphia. They Could give no Valuable Information, but agreed with Others that their Companies had never received any Pay, and the Most of them were disposed to desert. The Ships from Amboy and Prince’s Bay are gone up to New York. Yet from Some Circumstances I am led to beleive they Meditate an Expedition to the Westward by Water—They have a Number of Brigs, Schooners, and Sloops, prepared for taking Horses on board. Their Stalls are all Cover’d and

the Sides lined with Sheepskins with the Wool on to prevent the Horses Chafing—they would not make Use of Such precautions if they Intended up the North or East River. I have this Minute a Deserter from the British Fleet, Enclosed Your Excellency has his, and George West’s Examination.
Should Your Excellency think proper to have me Supplied with the Cannon, it will be Necessary to have Your Excellency’s Order to the Board of War for them and the necessary Stores. I have the Honour to be Your Excelly most obedient Humble Servant

David Forman


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 6 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 6th July 1777

I was last Night favd with yours of the 4th—Genl Mifflin has this day sent off a load of intrenching Tools for Genl Schuyler, they will be delivered to you and I beg they may be immediately forwarded to Albany. The inclosed letter contains an order for Cartridge paper which is to be sent up at the same time with the Tools.
If the Enemy, instead of going up the North River, should move to the Eastward, your Troops will be the first that will follow them, you should therefore, in order to be prepared for such an exigency, inquire of the Quarter Master whether a sufficient Number of Teams to transport your Baggage and Artillery could be provided on a sudden, and altho’ I would not have them engaged on an uncertainty, yet, by looking out a little before hand, he might know where to find them quickly if wanted.
I hope Genl parsons’s detatchment will bring off the Cannon from

Fort Lee, but if they do not keep a good Watch, the Party of the Enemy at Paulus Hook will be upon them. They will certainly get intelligence of our people’s being there, for all the Country are their Friends. I am &ca.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 6 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dr Sir
Morris Town July 6h 1777.

Your Favor of the 30th Ulto was duly received. I should hope the Enemy will never carry the post at Tyonderoga, and that the Force now there (with such Aid as may be called in upon an Emergency) will be sufficient to check the progress of their Arms in that Quarter. In the present Situation of Things, I cannot detach, with any Degree of propriety, more Troops from peek’s Kill, than what I have already ordered.
Tents cannot possibly be provided for the Militia—Several are yet wanted for the Continental Regiments. General Knox has sent an Order to one of the Conductors at peek’s Kill to forward you twenty Rheams of Cartridge paper, if it can be had—If not, to supply the Deficiency with printing paper—The Intrenching Tools which you require will be sent off to Day to the Quarter Master at Peek’s Kill, with Directions for conveying them to you by the earliest opportunity. There will be some Field Artillery with Nixon’s Brigade with a proper Number of Artillerists & a suitable supply of Ammunition for it.
Since my last Nothing new has occurred. The Enemy are still on Staten Island and allmost the whole of their Fleet lying there. Appearances strongly indicate that an Embarkation is to take place, but whether any of them are yet on Board is a Matter of Incertainty.
Your Letter to Mr Trumbull, I sent him Yesterday—agreeable to your Request, after reading & sealing it. I am dear Sir with great Esteem Yr most obedt Servant

Go. Washington.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 6 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dear Sir
Morris Town 6th July 1777

Since I had the pleasure of seeing you some of the Officers have been Suggesting a Plan for cutting off the Enemy’s Post at Bergen,

which they seem to think could be easily effected—As it may be in your power to collect certain information of the strength &Ca of that Guard which I understand consists of new Levies I would refer the matter intirely to your consideration & Discretion, wishing that if your accounts are such as would promise a tolerable Certainty of Success you would make the attempt. I need not mention to you that the most profound Secrecy is necessary upon every occasion of this nature & very particularly on this, as two Minutes Notices would give them an opportunity of withdrawing across the Causeway, where it would be impossible for you to get at them—to prevent this a small party should be dispatch’d before the rest by some different Rout which should Occupy the pass near Bergen by which means every Intelligence might be kept from them, no Soul being allow’d to go in—should this Enterprize appear so feasible as to risque it, I shall expect soon to hear from you—you will Observe to March your Troops at such Hours as will prevent their being Hurt by the Excessive Heat of the Weather.
It will be prudent at all events to send a party of 2 or 300 Men some where beyond Hackinsac under a Cautious active Officer, from which small parties may be sent up to fort Lee & along North River, to Observe every Motion of the Enemy about New York by Land or Water—two or three light Dragoons should be with them to convey every necessary Intelligence to you in order that I may be appriz’d as early as possible. I am Dr sir &Ca.

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. John Sullivan, 6 July 1777 [letter not found]
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. John Sullivan, 6 July 1777. In his letter to Sullivan of 7 July, GW writes that “I have yours of the 5th and 6th” and that “Yours dated the 5th but I suppose meant for the 6th is come to hand.”


Title: General Orders, 7 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, July 7th 1777.
Virginia.Ulster.Upton.

The General expects the strictest attention will be paid to the order of the 20th of last month for sizing the men, and placing the shortest in front: Unless this is done, the whole fire of the rear-rank will most assuredly be lost, especially if the files should happen (as is but too often the case) to be crouded together.
The Commander in Chief approves the following sentences of a General Court Martial, held the 6th instant of which Colonel Walter Stewart was president.

John Halfpenny of the 10th Virginia regt charged with “getting drunk, raising a riot, and abusing his officers”—No evidence appearing against the prisoner, the Court ordered him to be released from confinement.
The Court discharged Barney Drum—No crime being exhibited against him.
Herman Wynch of the German Battalion, charged with “Mutiny, neglecting his duty, absenting himself from his company, and refusing to take his arms and accoutrements”—The Court after considering the charge, and evidence, are of opinion the prisoner is guilty of neglecting his duty, absenting himself from his company, and refusing to take his arms and accoutrements”—and not guilty of mutinying—Sentenced to receive 39 lashes on his bare back.
Patrick Farrall of the 12th Pennsyl: regt in Capt: Bradley’s Company, charged with “Drunkenness, and assaulting his officer”—found guilty, and sentenced to receive 100 lashes on his bare back.
Robert Grimes of Capt. William Gray’s Company, in the 4th Pennsylv: regt charged with “Deserting from the said company”—found not guilty, of the charge exhibited against him. The Court do adjudge the prisoner to belong to Capt: Daughty’s company, and that the bounty money the prisoner received from Capt: Gray’s lieutenant, shall be paid Capt: Gray by Capt: Daughty, and stopped out of the prisoner’s pay.
Cornelius McConnoll of the 1st Pennsylvania regt charged with “deserting to the enemy”—it appearing by his own confession that he was guilty; but that he was deluded by some bad fellows to go to the enemy, that he inlisted with them; but being sensible of his error, and hearing of Genl Washington’s proclamation, offering pardon to offenders, he deserted from the enemy, and brought off eight with him: That he was pardoned by Genl McDougall, from whose Brigade Major he produced a pass: For these reasons the Court ordered him to be released from confinement.
Dennis O’Bryan, a soldier belonging to a detachment of North-Carolina troops, under the command of Col. Sumner, charged with “Having deserted from that detachment”—The prisoner pleaded guilty; but it appearing to the Court that he is incapable of rendering any service to the country, as he appears to be debilitated in body, and a stupid, foolish person; they sentenced him to be drumed out of the service.
Peter Norris of the 5th New-Jersey regiment charged with “Desertion”—No evidence appearing against the prisoner, the Court ordered him to be released from confinement.
Lewis Reed, Israel Turner & Henry Blaracum, of the 5th New-Jersey

regt charged severally with “Desertion”—No evidence appearing against the prisoners—the Court ordered them to be released from confinement.
It being injurious to the health of the soldiers on account of the foulness of the water, and utterly inconsistent with decency, for them to bathe in the Mill-pond, by Howel’s mill, near the highway leading from Head Quarters, to the Court House; that practice is absolutely forbidden; and the guard and sentries posted near thereto are to take up and confine all offenders.
Col. Morgan’s Corps of rifle-men not being annexed to any brigade, and being often detached from the army, are to draw their rations from time to time of the nearest commissary.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Ezekiel Cheever, 7 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Cheever, Ezekiel

sir.
Morris Town July 7th 1777

Application having been made to me by Governor Trumbull for Liberty to draw a Quantity of Arms out of the Magazine at springfield for the Militia of that state in case it should be invaded, I have complied with his request upon the following Conditions which you will please observe. That should the state be actually invaded, & a sufficiency of Arms remains in the Magazine after complying with the Orders which you will receive from me in a short time under these Circumstances you are to furnish him with a thousand stand, which are only to be consider’d as a Loan & to be replac’d as soon as the Situation of things will permitt. I am &c.

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 7 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 7th July 1777

I was this morning honored with yours of the 5th with sundry Resolves of Congress to which I shall pay due attention. No change has taken place in the Situation of the Enemy upon Staten Island since I wrote to you on the 5th But I have this morning recd an account from Elizabeth Town which mentions that a person had just come from the Island who informs that small Craft are constantly plying between N. York and the Fleet laden with Officer’s Baggage and Stores put up in packages and marked with their Names and Regiments—and that Transports are fitted up with Stalls over their main Decks for the Reception

of Horses. This looks as if a longer Voyage was intended than up the North River. I have given Notice to all the Eastern States to be upon their guard should the Fleet put to Sea and steer that way; and I think the Works upon and obstructions in the Delaware should be carried on with Spirit and compleated as far as possible lest they should visit that quarter. I think the Southern States should also be advised of the uncertainty of the next operation of the Enemy that they may also be making such preparations as they may judge necessary. I shall make enquiry into the Number of Arms at present at Springfeild and if any can possibly be spared to the State of Connecticut; they shall have all or part of those requested by Govr Trumbull. Genl Knox expects the Return on Saturday from Springfeild and I can then determine the Matter. I am pleased to hear that a supply of Money is upon the Road as there is two Months pay due to the Troops. I have the Honor to be with great Respect Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. The inclosed piece of information is just sent to me by Genl Forman, which is confirmed in several particulars by two deserters from The Fleet, who left it Yesterday Morning.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters, 7 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Peters, Richard

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 7th July 1777

Yours dated the 19th last Month only reached me this Morning. Ezekiel Cheever Esq: is Commissary of Military Stores at Springfeild and is the person to whom you are to apply for Returns of all that are at that place.
The draft of the Spear is exactly what I meant and wish that both they and the Cannisters for Cartridges may be sent forward as quick as possible. If the Cannisters are filled with Cartridges when they are sent up it will bring them safe and dry and save Carriages. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 7 July 1777
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Stilwater [N.Y.] Monday July 7h 1777

I have this Moment received a Letter from General Learned, Copy whereof I do myself the Honor to inclose.
I am extremely apprehensive that the greater part of the Garrisons of Tyonderoga and Mount Independance is in the Enemy’s power and if they make a push they may do what they please, as I have not above 700 Continental Troops to oppose them with, and, I fear, not above twice that Number of Militia—I cannot doubt but that we have lost every piece of Cannon we had there, so that I am now left with a few small pieces not a sufficient Number even for the two Schooners on Lake George.
I evidently foresee that all this part of the Country will soon be in their power, unless we are speedily and largely reinforced.
I am in the utmost Distress for Want of provisions of the Meat Kind—Much of the Beef now forwarding being spoiled—I shall do every Thing that is left in my power to do, and hope the best. I am Dr Sir—most respectfully Your Excellency’s obedient hble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 7 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 7th July 1777

I have yours of the 5th and 6th I am sorry that any misunderstanding between you and Doctor Cochran should have gone to such disagreeable lengths. When your first letter of complaint was put into my hands, Doctr Shippen the director General was standing by me, I delivered it immediately to him as it belonged to his department and never heard more of the matter till I received your last. As I would have every Officer properly supported in his Rank, I can point out no better manner of adjusting this Matter than submitting the whole to a Court

of enquiry. Colo. Hazen will not be back from Philada before the 12th and as he is one of the Gentlemen upon whose information your complaint is grounded, I suppose you would not incline to bring the enquiry on before he returns. But if you chuse to do it sooner I have no objection. If this matter, in my hurry of Business, slips my Memory, I beg you will remind me.
By Advices from Staten Island and N. York it seems as if the Enemy were preparing for a longer Voyage than up the North River, but such appearances should not lull our Vigilance upon that Quarter. Altho’ the Road leading from the Clove to Fort Montgomery is not passable in its present State, would it not be worth while to repair it in such a Manner that Troops and light Artillery might travel it, while the heavier Carriages went higher up? Of this you will be a better Judge when you have seen the Road and consulted Genl Geo: Clinton who is perfectly acquainted with the Country. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Yours dated the 5th but I suppose meant for the 6th is come to hand.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 7 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town July 7th 1777.

I had the honor of writing to you the 2nd instant with a Post Script of the 4th I there informed you of the Enemy having evacuated the Jerseys and of the intelligence received from Ticonderoga, which induced me to suppose it highly probable the next operation of General Howe would be up the North River. But as I have received no information since the first of the 26th Ulto to confirm the expectation of a serious attempt in that Quarter, I am led very much to suspect, that the hostile appearances that way, may be only a diversion to keep awake our apprehensions for the security of the Posts there—prevent our drawing away any part of our Forces from thence, and even tempt us to weaken ourselves here, by sending Reinforcements to them; while the real design may be to attack elsewhere—This supposition is also agreeable to the accounts we daily receive from Deserters and others who come from the Enemy—We are told by these, that accommodations

for horses are filling up in the Transports that they are taking in large supplies of provisions, water and provender, and that Officers Baggage is continually transporting on board of them from New-York, marked with their names and the Corps they belong to.
These representations, if true, seem to denote an expedition that would take longer time than would be necessary for one up the North River, but where, is all matter of conjecture, and cannot be determined with any degree of certainty—Prudence dictates that we should be as much upon our guard as possible every where, and on this account I have thought it my duty to communicate to you the information I have received, that, in case any thing should be meditated against the Eastern States, you may not be taken by surprise, but may have warning to put matters in the best situation you can, to give them a proper reception. On my part, no vigilance nor exertions shall be wanting to ascertain their intentions and give effectual assistance wherever they may direct their efforts.
Since my last I have had advices from the Southward, that the public magazines there are entirely emptied of Arms, and that the Troops now coming on will be destitute, unless they can be supplied out of those imported to the Eastward. This will oblige me to order most of the Arms at Springfield to be sent forward to furnish those Troops—It is matter of equal concern and surprise to hear such loud complaints, in the Eastern States, for want of Arms—When we consider the quantities brought into them both on public as well as private account, which their situation enabled them to receive in much greater proportion than the other States, and the arrivals of which, have been announced in all the public papers, as well as in private and official Letters—How they have been applied, it is impossible for me to conceive.
In case of an actual invasion of your State, should such an event take place, and should there be a necessity for it, towards furnishing your Militia, you may draw out of the Store at Springfield a thousand Arms for that purpose, if there be any remaining after the number I shall be obliged to call for is supplied—This you will be pleased to consider as a Loan, not a Sale, and to be replaced as soon as circumstances will permit. By the enclosed I have instructed the Commissary of Stores to deliver them. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Your most obedient Servant

G. Washington

P.S. The enclosed information came to hand since writing the above. The other letters you will be pleased to forward, as directed, with all dispatch—They are inclined to put the other Eastern States upon their guard also.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Trumbull, 7 July 1777
From: Trumbull, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Morristown 7th July 1777

Inclosed, I send your Excellency Some Extracts from a Letter recd this Evening from my Bro[the]r at Albany, by Express—also—A Return of Provisions on Hand at Tyconderoga, the 20th June—& the Number of Rations Issued—by which Your Excellency, can Judge of the State of Provisions there—The Express will go off on his return to Albany, by 10—or 11 oClock in the Morning—unless Your Excellency, should have occasion to detain him. I am, with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Humble servt

Jos: Trumbull


Title: General Orders, 8 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown, July 8th 1777.
Warwick.Warren. Westfield.

The Court of which Col. Brodhead was president, appointed to inquire into the conduct of the artillery officers to wit; Capt. Eustis and his officers and Capt: Archibald, whose pieces were lost in the action of the 26th of last month—Report, that having examined divers officers (whose names they mention) relative thereto, they are of opinion that Capt: Eustis and his officers behaved with becoming bravery and good conduct during the whole action, and that the loss of the field-pieces was inevitable, they being left in the rear, unsupported—Also that Capt. Gibbs Jones and the officers under his command, behaved with becoming bravery, and good conduct, during the whole action; and that the loss of the piece commanded by Capt: Lieut: Archibald was inevitable, it being left in the rear unsupported.
As the grounds on which some parts of the troops are encamped, may be less dry and healthy than others in the neighbourhood, and not so well watered—The Major Generals are desired in such cases to shift the encampments of their divisions, or such parts of them, as they shall judge necessary, the better to preserve the health of the troops.
As foggy and dewy mornings may be less favorable to the health of the soldiers, than other parts of the day; commanding officers of corps will, in such cases, postpone turning out their men ’till the close, or other part of the day, as they and their surgeons shall judge most expedient.
Canteens, Tomhawks and other camp-utensils must be very beneficial to the troops; but unless more care be taken to preserve, it will be impracticable to supply them—The Quarter Master General therefore, in issuing those articles, will charge them to the respective Quarter Masters of regiments and corps, these Quarter Masters to their Captains, or officers commanding companies; and they to their men, each to account with the other, in the order preceding; And the Captains and officers commanding companies are every Saturday to examine the cloaths, arms, accoutrements, ammunition and camp-utensils of

their men, that if any are missing, and a good account of them cannot be rendered, the person found deficient may be answerable for them.
In vain are orders given, and repeated, if after one cursory reading, they are thrown by and neglected—Many orders are intended for standing regulations, and of great importance to be known and remembered—The Commander in Chief therefore, in the strongest manner, enjoins upon all officers to examine the orderly book, and frequently review the standing orders, and as often cause to be read, to the men, such as immediately respect them.
A return of tents in each regiment to be made this day at four O’Clock, in the afternoon, to the Quarter Master General—Such regiments as have not received a horseman’s tent, are to apply to the Q. Mr General, as soon as may be for a supply.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Mordecai Gist, 8 July 1777
From: Gist, Mordecai
To: Washington, George

Sir
Baltimore 8 July 1777

my last was of the 2d Instant, covering a Return of the Troops forwarded from this place total 1694, since which only a small detachment of my Regt has come in, who are to March to Morrow.
I take the liberty of laying before your Excellency the Inclosed act of Assembly, by which you will find that the Officers of the last Regts orderd by Congress are precluded the priviledge of recruiting in this state; in consequence of which, I have orderd the Officers of two Companies in Colo. Nat. Gists Regt left here under my direction, to proceed to Virginia, and Pennsylvania, whose laws I expect are less selfish and Illiberal.
should Your Excellency Incline to believe my attendance at Camp would be most consistant with the good of the Service, I should be happy to comply with your orders for that purpose. I have the honor to be sir Your Most Obedient Humble Servant

M: Gist Colo. 3d Maryland Regt


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 8 July 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philada July 8th 1777.

I have the Honour to transmit at this Time Copies of three Letters from Generals Sullivan, Green, and Knox to Congress, the Receipt of which, as the Contents were highly derogatory to the Honour and Justice of Congress, could not fail to be extremely displeasing. They have therefore come to the enclosed Resolve on the Subject, to which, as it clearly expresses their Sense of the Impropriety of the Conduct of those Officers, I beg Leave to refer your Attention, and to request you will make them acquainted therewith.
Your Favour of the 7th Instant I this Morning received, and in a few Minutes shall lay it before Congress. I have the Honour to be, with the greatest Respect, Sir, Your most obed. & very hble Servt

John Hancock Presidt

P.S. 5 O’Clock P.M. Since writing the foregoing, the inclosed Resolutions of this Day have been passed, which I transmit for your Information.


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 8 July 1777
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
New Town in Sussex [N.J.] 8th July 1777

By Order of the Council of Safety of this State, General Winds has collected 200 of our Militia, to proceed to the County of Bergen, under the Command of Major Hayes of Newark, (a prudent and active Officer) to apprehend such disaffected Persons in that County, as the Council of Safety think it most necessary for the Public Interest to commit to Jail; and to enable the Commissioners for seizing & disposing of the personal Estates of those who have gone over to the Enemy, to execute their Commission, which, in that County, cannot be done without military Aid. Both these Services being of the last Importance to the General Interest, we doubt not will meet with your Excellency’s Patronage & Encouragement. And as General Winds informs me that the Men are destitute of Ammunition, it would greatly facilitate the Service, could they be furnished out of the continental magazine, & have it charged to this State; unless it is more properly to be considered as a continental Expence.
Whether I can, with propriety, ask the Favour of your Excellency to suffer the party to draw for Provisions from the public Stores, I am at a loss to determine. If not, they must be provided as well as they can. I am with great Respect your Excellencys most humble Servt

Wil: Livingston


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 8 July 1777
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [Philadelphia] July 8th 1777

The Generals & Officers in the Northern Department complain heavily of a great Want of Arms & Cloathing for the Troops under their Command. The Field Officers of the New Hampshire Regiments have represented the Matter in the strongest Terms, & yet the greatest Quantities of both Arms & Clothes have arrived in their State. Mr Langdon, the Agent for the States at Portsmouth, gives himself credit for the Delivery of 2,100 Stands of Arms to the New Hampshire Forces, 4,000 Stands to those of Massachussetts & 3,000 to the Troops of Connecticut. The Return of the N. Hampshire Troops at Tyconderoga amounts to 1063 & I am satisfied they cannot have in their 4 Regiments more Men than they have recieved Arms. These Matters are inexplicable, but all Accounts agree that whatever might have been their Supplies they are now in Want. The Board have directed a thousand Suits of Clothes to be sent as soon as the Clothier General can possibly get them ready, & have directed me to request your Excellency will take Measures for sending forward a Supply of as many Arms as you think can be spared; but how the Number wanted will be ascertained is not known here, for altho’ a general Complaint has been made by the Officers they have not been attentive enough to reduce to any kind of Certainty, what Arms Clothes or Necessaries will answer their Exigencies. The Board never recieve Returns but of the Numbers of the Troops. In the British Returns Clothes, Arms & Necessaries (for which they have 3 Columns

“Good, “bad,” wanting”) are always included. Many of our Soldiers have been detected in selling their Necessaries; & Practices of this Sort it is apprehended are but too common amongst them. In the British Service the Serjeants & Corporals are made responsible for the Mens Necessaries of which they return a weekly Account & if any wanting & not lost in actual Service the Men are punished. It is submitted to your Excellency whether Regulations of this kind would not be proper to be introduced into our Army. But unfortunately our Serjeants & Corporals are as raw & want as much Regulation as the privates, whereas in the Enemy’s Army much Dependance is placed on their Non Comd Officers who are in general more acquainted with & attentive to Service than their Superiors.
I have the Honour of your Excellency’s Letter of the 7th inst. & am surprized at the Delay of mine of the 19th. The Commissary at Springfield has made a Return deficient in every Article according to the Expectations of the Board; but perhaps the Residue was on the Road from Boston when Mr Cheevers made his Return. There certainly ought to be at least nine thousand Stands of Arms at Springfield altho’ Mr Cheevers returns only 3320. The Spears are in Hand & I shall urge their speedy Completion. The Cannisters have been sent on some time & I am surprized General Knox has not recieved them. I endeavoured to have them filled with Cartridges but had not Interest enough with the Officer employed in the Bussiness to have it done.
The enclosed Letter from Monsr DeCoudray I was directed by the Board to transmitt to your Excellency. I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect your very obedt hble Servt

Richard Peters Secy

P.S. Monsr DeCoudray has sent on his Letter by the Officer mentioned in it & only desires that it may be mentioned to your Excellency that the Board had perused the Letter.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 9 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Qrs Morris Town July 9th 1777.

The inclosed Copy of a Letter from the Commissary General of provisions & the information you will receive from Majr Hoops will convince Congress of the distress & confusion prevailing in that Department.

Without something is done in aid of Mr Trumbull immediately, this Army must be disbanded—If the present difficulties continue, it is impossible it can exist. I entreat Congress to take the matter under their most early consideration and to make such provision as the exigency & importance of the case demands. I know not but we shall be obliged to move in the course of a few Hours, when from the situation of things in this line, we shall have more to dread than from the Enemy. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obedt servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Col. Alexander Spotswood, 9 July 1777 [letter not found]
From: Spotswood, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Col. Alexander Spotswood, 9 July 1777. In his letter to GW of 10 July, Spotswood writes: “Since my letter of yesterdays date—I have Maturely Considdered the Consequences that will Attend a Resignation at this time.”


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Trumbull, 9 July 1777
From: Trumbull, Joseph
To: Washington, George

My Dear General
Morristown 9th July 1777

The Bearer Majr Hoops, is appointed Deputy Issuing Commissary General for this Department, he came here to take up his Department he meets such difficulties, arising from the Strictness of Congress new Regulations, as make it impossible to enter on his Duty, the particulars he can inform Your Excellency—You know the distress I have long been in, & which I have mentioned to Your Excellency—I really fear the Army, will suffer, if not be disbanded soon; if some effectuall Measures, for my Relief, are not taken—Colo. Stewart is of the same Opinion—We propose to write to Congress, requesting A Committee may Attend here, as soon as possible that they may have full Evidence of the Matters Complained of, & difficulties that need redress—which measure, if Approved by Your Excellency, we must beg you, to Support, by something under your own Hand to Congress on the subject, & Majr Hoops or some other Person will go Express there with—I have no one Assistant here on the New Establishment, nor Have I the power of appointing a single Person in my Department even pro Tempore—Nor can I get people to serve under the old Establishment, to be displaced again soon—I beg Your Excellency’s directions to Majr Hoops—& am with the Greatest Respect Your Excellency’s most Humle sert

Jos: Trumbull


Title: General Orders, 10 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Morristown, July 10th 1777.
Weymouth Andover.

The tents of the whole army are to be struck to morrow morning, at Gun-firing, and packed up, ready for marching, with the utmost speed; the line of march to begin afterwards as soon as possible.
All baggage Waggons (those with tents excepted) are to move this afternoon towards Boone-Town, to a place appointed by Gen: Mifflin: Guards for which are to be supplied in the following manner; Viz.—Each brigade furnishes a Captain, two subalterns and thirty men, and each division a Field Officer, that from Gen: Greene’s to be Colonel Commandant—Women are to march with the baggage. Two days provisions

to be cooked and ready this afternoon—Canteens are to be filled with water, before the march begins, as no soldier will be allowed to quit his rank on that account.
The three picquets, viz., On the Pompton, Chatham & Middlebrook roads, will quit their posts at gun-firing to morrow morning and join their respective corps without delay—All other guards will attend their duty in the several departments where they are placed until relieved, moving with their charges respectively.
After Orders.
Each division (except Lord Stirling’s) is to leave at Morristown a captain, two subalterns, three serjeants, three corporals and fifty privates: And Major General Lord Stirling’s division one subaltern, two Serjeants, two corporals and twenty-five privates—Gen: Greene’s division to furnish one Field Officer to command the whole; which field officer will call early to morrow morning upon the Adjutant General, for the orders of the Commander in Chief.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Elias Dayton, 10 July 1777
From: Dayton, Elias
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Elizabeth-town [N.J.] July 10th 1777 7 o’clock.

Since my last, a person has returned from New York; that has been, four days, at that place, observing the motions of the Enemy.
He says, Tuesday last, three Transports sailed, up East-River; with a number of Troops on board; but what number he could not determine; that he heard a number of people talk of them: some said, they were only going to deceive Mr Washington: others said, they were only sick men; and others, that they were going to alarm the Yankeys. That he saw General Clinton in New-York: & heard it said, he had brought with him, three thousand men; but he only saw about One thousand highlanders, which he observed particularly when they landed in New-York. The spy saw several thousand Rakes and scythe-sneaths put on board the vessels: a large number of bricks were put on board, at the same time.
I have just been viewing the tents on Staten-island; and find them the same as for two days past.
The fleet had not sailed this day at one o’clock: and since that, I will answer for it they have not moved as the wind has been South-East.
The Enemy are building several Redoubts near the encampment on the Island. I am your Excellencys most Obedient Humble Servant

Elias Dayton


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 10 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Morris Town July 10th 1777.

I this morning received a Letter of the 7th Instant from Genl Schuyler, a Copy of which and of it’s inclosure, I herewith send you. The intelligence, which they contain, is truly interesting, supposing it just; But it differs so widely from what we had reason to expect from the Accounts mentioned in General St Clairs Letters to Genl Schuyler, Copies of which you would receive in his Letter, transmitted from hence last night by Majr Hoops, that I would fain flatter myself, it is not true. I am the more encouraged to hope this, as Captn. Farmam’s Letter from Fort Ann to Brigadr Learned, seems to be the foundation of the whole, and does not authorize the unfavourable—unhappy conclusions built upon it. I should rather suppose, if any accident has befallen us, it must have happened to the Detachment of Men from the Grants under Colo. Warner, for we find from Genl St Clairs Letters, he expected something from him. The whole Account is so confused, that we cannot establish any certain deduction from it, and shall be happy, if it proves premature and groundless. I am told by a Gentn who came to Camp Yesterday Evening, that Nixon’s Brigade would certainly arrive at Albany on Tuesday morning, as he saw the Vessels, in which It was embarked, standing up the Evening before with a fair wind.
If the Event mentioned by General Schuyler should not have happened, we cannot doubt but Genl Burgoyne has come up the Lake, determined, if possible, to carry his point—I mean to possess himself of our posts in that Quarter and to push his Arms further. Supposing this not to have happened, as Our Continental Levies are so deficient in their number, our security and safety will require that aids from the Militia should be called forth in cases of emergency. If it has, there is now an Absolute necessity for their turning out to check Genl Burgoyne’s progress or the most disagreable consequences may be apprehended. Upon this occasion, I would take the liberty to suggest to Congress the propriety of sending an Active—spirited Officer to conduct and lead them on. If General Arnold has settled his Affairs & can be spared from Philadelphia, I would recommend him for this business & that he should immediately set out for the Northern department. He is active—judicious & brave, and an Officer in whom the Militia will repose great confidence. Besides this, he is well acquainted with that Country and with the Routs and most important passes and defiles in it. I do not think he can render more signal services or be more usefully employed at this time than in this way—I am persuaded his presence & activity will animate the Militia greatly & spur them on to a becoming conduct. I could wish him to be engaged in a more agreable service—to be with better Troops, but circumstances call for his exertions in this

way, and I have no doubt of his adding much to the Honors he has already acquired.
In consequence of the Advices from Genl St Clair, and the strong probability there is, that Genl Howe will push against the Highland passes, to cooperate with Genl Burgoyne, I shall, by the advice of my Officers, move the Army from hence to Morrow Morning towards the North River—If such should be his intention we shall not be too early as a favourable wind & tide will carry him up in a few Hours—On the other hand, if Philadelphia is his Object, he can’t get round before we can arrive there, nor can he well debark his Troops &c. & proceed across the Land before we can oppose him. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obedt set

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Robert Lawson, 10 July 1777
From: Lawson, Robert
To: Washington, George

 Morristown, 10 July 1777. “Mr [Edward Roe] Jiggets a Lt in the 4th Virga Regt has not enjoyd his Health well at any time Since he came into the Service, and lately finds it Still more impaird—Desspairing of its being Reestablish’d, if he Continues in the Service, he has inform’d Me of his Desire to resign his Commission—In consequence of which I have taken the Liberty to refer him to your Excellency.”


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 10 July 1777
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [Philadelphia] July 10th 1777

Col. D’Armand of the Corps late Ottendorff’s has applied to the Board for forty Musketts & ten Rifles to supply the like Number lost by the Soldiers. The Bo⟨ard thought it⟩ wrong to comply with this requisition on the Application being made to them in the first Instance without passing under your Excellency’s Notice who must be the best acquainted with the Propriety & Necessity of the Application. Arms & Necessaries lost in actual Service should beyond a Doubt be replaced; but if any Neglect has happened on the Part of the Officers & the Soldiers have sold or wantonly lost their Arms or Clothes & the Officer has taken no Pains to recover them or enquire into the Causes of their Loss it ought to fall upon the Captains of the Companies or other Officers in Fault & be deducted out of their Pay. Ottendorff’s Corps went out of this City at least as well equipped as any in the Army & it is extraordinary that out of about one hundred Men so many as fifty should want but everything. The Commissary is ordered to box up & send the fifty Arms to Camp & give Directions to the Officer who recieves them there not to deliver them without your Permission which they made no Doubt you will grant if the Measure be all right & proper, but if not you will be Pleased to apply the Arms elsewhere. There is a Deficiency of Clothing to a great Amount also applied for which induces a Belief that the Soldiers have sold to the Suttlers both Arms & Clothes. I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect Your very obedt Servt

Richard Peters Secy


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Alexander Spotswood, 10 July 1777
From: Spotswood, Alexander
To: Washington, George

May it please yr Excellency
10 July 1777

Since my letter of yesterdays date—I have Maturely Considdered the Consequences that will Attend a Resignation at this time; Hitherto I hope I have Avoided Censure, and to avoid any Imputation being laid on my Character, as an Officer & a Gentleman; I shall Continue to do my duty as Colo. to the 2d Va Regt to the end of the Campaign—In the meantime I shall represent my Case to the Congress—& if they think they have injured me, & will give me that rank I think I am entitled to, I never shall think of quiting the Service, until that happy day shall arrive, that this Continent will have no Occasion for an army—if on the Other hand they do not do me that Justice which I think from there resolves I am entitled to—I then, shall agn request yr Ecxcellencys permission to retire. I am with Respect yr Ecxellency Mt Ob. St

A. Spotswood


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 11 July 1777
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
New Town, Sussex [N.J.] 11 July 1777

Some of our Militia having been posted as Guards at Elizabeth Town and Newark by order of some Officers under your Excellency’s Command; I am informed that a Body of the continental Troops has lately been station’d at both those places. That in consequence of this, the Militia stationed at Elizabeth Town, have been discharged while those at Newark are still detained on Duty. I do not pretend to be sufficiently acquainted with Circumstances to determine whether there be a necessity for keeping the latter any longer in that Post; but considering the busy season of the year, how much our People have been harrassed, &

how apt militia are to take umbrage if treated in a manner different from their Neighbours, I could wish, if it be not inconsistent with the public Interest, that those of Newark could also be discharged.
The Council of Safety has pretty well suppressed the Spirit of Disaffection in this County; & I hope by the vigorous measures lately adopted, we shall soon reduce that almost totally revolted County of Bergen to the obedience of the States.
I have not been honoured with your Excellency’s acknowledgment of my Letter respecting Capt. Wetherby, which, as it inclosed an original Affidavit, & Wetherby’s discharge of the Soldier under his own hand, it would give me Pain, to think it had miscarried. I am with great Respect your Excellency’s most humble Servant

Wil: Livingston


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 11 July 1777
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Ramapoughs Clove [N.J.] 11th July 1777

upon Seeing Some Cloathing pass by here & knowing that my men are in a wretched Condition for Cloaths both officers & Soldiers & that we are always too far Detached from the Main Army to Draw I Ran the venture to Stop Some Riffle Frocks Some Shirts & three pieces of Cloaths which Qr Mr Sheriff has Sent a Recet for to the Cloathier Genl & will Deal them out if yr Excy aproves our having them if not we will forward them to Head Quarters as Soon as yr Excellencys pleasure is known—The Militia here are Desirous of being Dismissed for a Season & beg to know yr Excys pleasure They want to Secure their Harvest but will Turn out on the first Alarm. I have the Honor to be Dear General your most obedt Servt

Jno. Sullivan


Title: General Orders, 12 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Pompton-Plains [N.J.] July 12th 1777.
Baskenridge.Blandford.Burlington.

As the foul weather prevents the marching of the troops to day, they are to draw two days provisions, and cook them immediately.

Complaint has been made to the Commander in Chief that some soldiers pull down the fences to burn; and lay open the fields of the Inhabitants—He enjoins it upon the officers to use the utmost watchfulness and care to prevent this practice; and whoever is found guilty of it shall be severely punished.
The same orders that were given last evening are to determine and regulate the march to morrow.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 12 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Pompton Plains [N.J.] July 12th 1777

When I had the honor of addressing you last, I hoped the Intelligence received respecting our Affairs in the Northern Department was not true, or at least, that they were not so unfavourable, as they were then represented; But the inclosed Copy of a Letter from Genl Schuyler, which came to hand Yesterday Evening, confirms it most unhappily for us in its fullest latitude. This Event, (the evacuation of our posts on the Lake) among the most unfortunate that could have befallen us, is rendered more interesting by the manner in which it took place. I have no further information upon the Subject, than what the Copy contains, and shall be happy to hear by my next advices, that the Main body of the Army, of whose situation General Schuyler knew nothing with certainty, have not become prisoners. For I fear from the disposition they discovered on this distressing occasion, they would have surrendered to the Enemy, in case they fell in with them, though inferior in number.
In respect to Genl Schuylers demands, It is not in my power to comply with the whole of them. Not a Single Tent can be furnished, the Kettles will be and are ordered on; And an Express is going to Springfeild for all the Musquet Cartridges—Sixty Barrells of powder & a proportionable Quantity of Lead & Cartridge paper for his use. Ten peices of Artillery with Harness are also ordered with proper Officers from Peeks Kill. I have written to him to procure Horses & Drivers himself, as they are to be obtained with more ease where he is than here—Nor can he be supplied with the Heavy Cannon, which he requests, supposing

’em necessary, not having One to spare from a more important use—the defence of the Highlands. Colo. Putnam, I immagine, will be with him before this, as his Regiment is part of Nixon’s Brigade, who will answer every purpose he can possibly have for an Engineer at this crisis. A supply of intrenching Tools was sent him Four or five days ago in consequence of an Application then made. I should be extremely happy if our situation would allow me to afford him a large Reinforcement of Men—but I cannot with any degree of propriety in the Opinion of my General Officers send more to his aid at this time, than a number of Recruits on the March from the Massachusets State, belonging to some of the Regiments under his command, which amount to Six Hundred at least, and are now, I expect, pretty well advanced towards Peeks Kill. With this augmentation to what he already has, supposing Genl St Clair & his force to have come in & any number of Militia to have turned out, he will have an Army equal if not superior to Genl Burgoyn’s from the only accounts we have obtained. Besides this consideration, it is most probable, that Genl Burgoyne will suspend his Operations, till Genl Howe makes a movement and an effort on his part. His designs, I think, are most unquestionably against the Highlands, and that he will attempt the execution as soon as possible. We have been prevented marching to day by the Rain, but as soon as the Weather permits, shall proceed as expeditiously as we can towards the North River and cross or not as shall appear necessary from Circumstances.
In my last, I took the liberty of suggesting the propriety of sending an Active Officer to animate the Militia, that may assemble for checking Genl Burgoyn’s progress, and mentioned Genl Arnold for that purpose—being more & more convinced of the important advantages that will result from his presence & conduct, I have thought it my duty to repeat my wishes on the Subject, and that he may without a Moments loss of time set out from Philadelphia for that purpose.
When this arrives, it is likely Genl How’s intention will be well understood, but whether it is or not, as there are strong reasons to beleive his Operations will be up the North River & on the East side of it, I shall take the liberty to recommend the sending on the North Carolina & Other Continental Troops at Philadelphia to join this Army, unless Congress have some information that a Southern expedition is intended, of which I am not apprized.
If Congress have taken Colo. proctor and his Corps into the service of the States, It will be expedient for ’em to come on with all the Feild Artillery, which Colo. Flowers, the Commissary may have ready. this I have been induced to mention, having heard Congress were about to adopt ’em and as our demand for Artillerists is great. I would also observe,

that the situation of our Affairs, has become so delicate & embarrassing by the late misfortune we have experienced, that it is much to be wished, some Expedient could be come into, if there be any more efficacious than what has been already recommended, for filling & compleating the Several Regiments—At present they only count in number—but not in force, being most shamefully deficient in their just Compliment.
Your Letter of the 8th was duly received and agreable to your request I communicated to Genls Greene & Knox the Resolution of Congress respecting them & Genl Sullivan, the last of whom, I have not seen since it came to hand. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

P:S: ½ after 8: P.M. I this Minute received a Letter of the 9th from Genl Schuyler, a Copy of which & of the proclamation alluded to, you have inclosed. I fear more & more, that Genl St Clair & his Army are prisoners.


Title: From George Washington to Hugh Hughes, 12 July 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Hughes, Hugh

Letter not found: to Hugh Hughes, 12 July 1777. On 14 July Hughes wrote GW: “Your Excellency’s Favour of the 12th did not reach me till this Morning.”


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 12 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

sir.
Head Quarters Pumpton Plains [N.J.] Ju⟨ly 12⟩th 1777

I am Honor’d with your favor of yesterday, & observe what you say respecting the Discharge of the Militia now station’d at Newark, which, (provided you think the Situation of things on staten Island will warrant such a procedure) I have not the least Objection to, as I have already signified to Colo. Cortland.
I would mention to you that as soon as Genl Howe’s Movements will

finally declare his Intentions, I shall be under the Necessity of calling off the two Continental Regiments now in that Neighbourhood, & therefore wish you would deliberate upon proper measures for the security of them parts, as some of the Enemy’s Troops will most assuredly be left on staten Island.
The Complexion of affairs to the Northward, & the preparations lately made by Genl Howe, leave little room to doubt, that their Intentions are to form a Junction up the North River. I have therefore thought proper to March that way, that I may Interpose, in case our Expectations are realized, the great advantage they have over us by Water Carriage rendering it necessary that we should be advanced before them.
I have lately receiv’d information from two Deserters Barton’s Regiment Skinner’s Brigade that William Myers & James Bartron of said Regiment are up in sussex recruiting Men for that service I request the Favor of you to have this Matter inquir’d into & proper Measures taken should the[y] be discovered as an Example of this Nature, I think, would have a very happy Effect.
I have now to acknowledge the receipt of yours of 18th Ulto & upon inquiry find that Wetherby has been dismiss’d from our service this long time past for Misbehaviour—Colo. Foreman is of opinion that any Men he may have Inlisted since, were for the Enemy as he has been in confinement upon a suspicion of that kind. I am with great Esteem Sir Your mo: Obedt servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Stephen Moylan, 12 July 1777
From: Moylan, Stephen
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Blands [N.J.] 12th July 1777

I Lodge in the house of a man who I verily believe, has as good a heart as any man can have, I have had many oppertunitys of enquireing into his character. he Lays out at Least one hundred pounds Sterling ⅌ annum, amongst the poor of his neighborhood; he is a Phisyscian who receives no fees, he is the freind of the distress’d—this gentleman is by proffession a Quaker of Course a peaceable man, he has relieved many of our Soldiers in their need, he has entertaind our officers, who all have a good opinion of him, it is true he has entertaind General Howe & his Officers, and I believe from the Same principle, he has

Sufferd by both armys, but not by the gentlemen of either army, he Knows, how far your name will influence even the Common Soldier engaged in our Cause, and wishes for a protection under your hand, I have promisd him that I woud apply for it and did not doubt, that if your Excy Saw no impropriety in it, you woud give my freind Elias Bland, a protection for himself, familly & effects as far as you with Consistency Coud do it. if you Can Comply Sir, you will add to the many obligations Conferd on Dr Sir Your affte H. St

Stephen Moylan

if your Excelly can Comply with the request, if you will be pleasd to send it by first Conveyance & it will more oblige.

P.S. the confused manner in which I made use of Captain Dorseys name in my Last to you, Struck me immediatly after I had sent it of I shoud have informd your Excellency that he had been threatning to resign very early after he was appointed, upon finding that an officer younger in Commission was appointed over his head but these threats never came to my ears, until I came to Jersey, where he had repeated them So often, that I Coud not avoid being acquainted with them, I immediatly told him that I did not wish, for a disatisfied officer in the Regiment, if he chose to resign, he Shoud have my influence with the General for his acceptance of the resignation, this gent: heard of the vacancy, of a qr Master Genl for the Horse, and a Vacancy at Same time for a quarter Master Genl for a Division, he applied for either & by what I understand has a promise for the horse with the Rank of Lieut. Col. I know no person more fit, or Capable for that employment, than Captain Craig, I shoud be sorry to part with him, but he is Certainly entitled to a prefference of Dorsey, in most respects, I believe he is the oldest Captain in the Service. he came I believe as Such to Cambridge with Thompson, and is a Captain still, he is brave, modest, the later part of his character is I verily believe, the reason that he is Still a Captain, I shoud be very glad to have both continue in the Regiment as they both have merit; but if a promotion is to be made I shoud be wanting in my duty not to mention whom I thought the best entitled to it. I have the pleasure to be Dr Sr Yrs most cordially

Steph. Moylan


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 12 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dear Sir,
Head Quarters Pumpton Plains [N.J.]12th July 1777

In consequence of the disagreeable event which has taken place in the evacuation of Ticonderoga and Fort Independence—though our situation does not make it prudent to send on any very considerable reinforcements immediately besides those already gone, yet it is necessary we should be preparing to throw them in, when it can be more safely done, and the true state of affairs in that quarter is more clearly unfolded. I have therefore to desire, you will order General Glover to hold his Brigade in constant readiness to embark at a moments warning; and, at the same time, that you will collect at your post, as fast as possible, a sufficient number of vessels to transport them with their baggage, tents &c. to Albany.
You will also send forward immediately some active trusty officer to meet such detachments as may be coming on belonging to the regiments

that compose General Nixon’s brigade, with orders, if he meets them where they can be sent by a short rout and in an expeditious manner to join their corps, to hasten them on accordingly, without letting them come to Peeks Kill; but, such as he may find so far advanced towards it, as to render it more conducive to dispatch, to come on and go thence by water, he is to make them continue their march with all speed, and on their arrival with you, you are without the least loss of time to forward them, to their regiments. I mean that you should act in this, in the manner best calculated according to circumstances, to answer the end of their joining the corps they belong to with the greatest expedition possible.
I have determined that ten field pieces, with the necessary apparatus, shall be sent on from your post to General Schuyler. General Knox will send up an officer with particular directions about them. You will be pleased to give every assistance requisite to the forwarding them with dispatch.
I have just received intelligence that General Howe’s army is nearly all embarked. They will certainly proceed very soon to the place of their destination. Our misfortune to the Northward, makes it of the last importance you should take every precaution to avoid one at your post, which could not fail to involve consequences almost, if not intirely, irremediable. As a very material step towards this, I would recommend to you, to contract the points of defence and secure your flanks & rear as much as possible, by stopping up all roads by which you are accessible in any part, that are not absolutely necessary to keep open your communication with the Country from whence you draw your supplies. Attend particularly to the cross roads leading from the valley on the right of the great road from Peeks Kill to Fish Kills, into that road, and do not content yourself with slight impediments easily removed; but endeavour to make them effectual. Be attentive also to the roads that lead from Croten by the way of Danbury or elsewhere, towards Fish Kills. The fewer the avenues of approach to you, the more certain the judgment you can form of the enemy’s intentions & operations, the more easily you can adapt your measures to them, & the greater will be your force at the point of attack. I am Dear Sir Your most Obedt servant

G.W.

P.S. I have had an intimation of some vessels moving up the sound. This is a circumstance well worth attending to. Keep trusty persons at Norwalk—Fairfield and any other places convenient for observation, to give you instant intelligence of any movements that way.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 12 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear Sir
Pompton Plains [N.J.] 12th July 1777.

Yesterday Evening, upon my March from Morris Town to this place, I received your’s of the 7th confirming the unfortunate Contents of the preceeding of the same Date.
I will suspend my Opinion upon the propriety of this very extraordinary and sudden Evacuation until I hear something from General St Clair, for, in Truth it is altogether unaccountable—I most sincerely wish it was in my power to supply all your Demands but it shall be done as far as lays in my power. Of Tents I have not as many as fully cover this Army, and therefore am unable to forward any of them. General Mifflin will instantly dispatch the Camp Kettles—The intrenching Tools have already been sent on—General Knox has dispatched an Express to Springfield with Orders to send you sixty Barrels of Musquet powder with Ball and Cartridge paper in proportion, and all the Musquet Cartridges that are already made. If you should want any more powder, Ball or Cartridge paper, you will please to send to Springfield and it will be delivered to your Order. Ten field pieces will be immediately sent from Peek’s Kill with Harness compleat and a sufficient Quantity of fixed Ammunition, but Horses we have none—I am surprized that you should make a Demand for them and Drivers for them from this Quarter, when you are in the best part of the Continent for Draft Horses and of people who understand the Management of them. I have not a piece of heavy Cannon with me, nor could I supply you by any other Means than taking them from the Forts in the Highlands, which would be, by no Means, proper when we may every Moment expect an Attack there. General Knox informs me, that he has not an Artillery Man more than is necessary for the Train at present in the Field. If Major Stevens has not fallen into the Enemy’s Hands, he, with the Help of some Additionals drawn from the Regiments has Men enough to work the ten pieces—A few more officers will be wanting and they will be sent up.
There is not at present a regular Engineer in this Army, I must therefore recommend it to you to apply for Assistance in that Branch to Colonel Rufus Putnam, who commands a Regiment in Nixon’s Brigade. I made Use of him all the last Campaign and found him answer the purpose of erecting slight Works, far better than any of the Foreigners, who pretended to much greater Skill.
Your Demand of a further Reinforcement of Troops was fully taken into Consideration by a Board of all the General Officers of this Army. Had our Numbers been as respectable as could have been wished it would not have taken a Moment to deliberate upon the propriety of

detaching a further and more considerable Force from this Army or peek’s Kill: but when we considered that weakening ourselves in a material Manner would make us an easy prey for General Howe, who, tho’ he has embarked the greatest part of his Army still lays under Staten Island, and might suddenly reland, it was the unanimous Opinion of the Board that no more than the Remainder of Nixon’s Brigade who are on their Way to peek’s Kill, could be spared at present. They consist of as many as the first Division.
General Glover’s Brigade is ordered to be held in Readiness and shall also be sent to you, If we find that General St Clair with his main Body has been unfortunate enough to fall into the Enemy’s Hands. If they have not and he brings them off in tolerable order you will with them and your present Force, aided with a good Artillery certainly be able to join Burgoyne’s progress by Land. Indeed Nothing decisive can be determined upon till we know General St Clair’s Fate and what General Burgoyne is pursuing—in Consequence of his Success—Of both those points I expect I shall have Information in a very short Time. I am Dear Sir Your most obedt Servant

Go. Washington.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 12 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

sir,
Head Quarters Pumpton Plains [N.J.] July 12th 1777.

The army marched yesterday from Morris Town to this place, about eighteen miles from thence, and will proceed towards Peeks-Kill as soon as the weather permits—You will also, at the same time, march through the Clove and cross the River at the most convenient and safe place; for which purpose I would recommend it to you to consult with General Clinton. Our heavy baggage is advancing to fall into your rear. If it comes on time enough you are to cover it in passing over; but you are not to suffer any material detention on this account. I am Sir Your most Obedt servant

Go: Washington