Title: To George Washington from Major William Perkins, 14 May 1780
From: Perkins, William
To: Washington, George

Sr
Providence 14th May 1780

I have been favour’d with your Excellency’s order of April 10th—have exerted myself ever since in procuring Teams, and with some difficulty have procured about Twelve continental Teams that will go foward to morrow loaded with Powder which is all I can muster at Present in this State.
The inclos’d is a Copy of a Resolve of the Council of War of April 8. & as Genl Gates left me with order to obey all orders from the Council & could do no less than comply as appears on the back of the enclosed Resolve; and likewise a Resolve of the Genl Assembly to leave more Powder than you have order’d me—would be glad of your Excellency’s orders in that Respect.
As the Assembly will not recommend the removal of any of the Stores by Water, & as the round Shott, Grape, Shells, old Small Arms, and many other things may be sent by water without damage, and with less expence, would desire to have your Advice on that Head; for to send them all by land by the Teams we now have, it will take the whole Summer to compleat the removal. Yr Excellency’s most Obedient Hume Servt

William Perkins


Title: To George Washington from Major Lemuel Trescott, 14 May 1780
From: Trescott, Lemuel
To: Washington, George

Sir
Paramus [N.J.] May 14 [1780] 11. oClock P.M.

I have this moment receved Intelliegence from Captn Ward (at Hackingsack) by Express that the Enemies Shipping are Comning up the North River, they were he Says at Fort Lee or oposite this afternoon I thought it my Duty to Give Your Excellency the Earleyest Intelligence of a matter of So much Consequence. I am Your Excellencies most Obedient & very Humble Servt

Lem. Trescott Major Comdt Detachment


Title: General Orders, 15 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters Morristown Monday May 15th 1780
Parole Frederick  Countersigns N. Q.

[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow—Colonel Craig[,] Major Talbot[,] Brigade Major Stark’s Brigade

The General court martial whereof Brigadier General Hand is President to assemble at the hut lately occupied by Major Winder in the Maryland line; Major Eustace is appointed a member vice Major Grier indisposed.
Lieutenant James Fairlie of the 2nd New York regiment is appointed Aid de Camp to Major General Baron Steuben and is to be obeyed and respected accordingly.
The Colonels and commanding officers of regiments in Camp are to attend Wednesday morning next at 9 o clock at the place of Exercise near Morristown.


Title: From George Washington to James Bowdoin, 15 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Bowdoin, James

Dr Sir
Head Qrs Morris Town May 15th 1780

I take the liberty to transmit to your care a Letter for Major General Heath under a flying Seal. From an apprehension that he might have left Boston before it arrived and the importance of the objects to which it extends I am induced to use this freedom. If the General has not returned to the Army, I would request the favor of You to have the Letter sealed after perusing it, and delivered to him; and if he has that you will have the goodness to consider it as addressed to yourself and to assist me in the several interesting points to which it goes. It may be of infinite importance to obtain the information required—and I should hope it may be done: Our very good Friends & allies have it much at heart—and view the reduction of Hallifax as a matter of great consequence, as being the Arsenal of support to the Enemy’s fleet in these seas & in the West Indies. I very sincerely congratulate you on this prospect of succour from his Most Christian Majesty, which equally demonstrates his wisdom and his great regard for us. Your own good understanding I am convinced, will lead You at once to see the propriety of secrecy upon the occasion and you will be pleased to consider the communication as confidential. I shall be happy, and our interest and character as a Nation indispensibly require it, that our exertions may be proportionned

to this fresh instance of magnanimity and generosity on the part of our Ally. I confess I have my fears on this head—as we have now from the pernicious system of short inlistments, nothing left us but the Skeleton of an Army—and are under great embarrasments with respect to our finance. Every friend to America should give his most active support to these important Objects.
The accounts from Charles Town received on our part as I learn from philadelphia, only come down to the 15th of April. The Enemy’s Batteries had then been opened for some days, without any other effect than killing three privates and a Woman & Child and firing one or Two Houses. It is however reported to day, that they have received advice in New York to the 1st Instant—and that matters had not then undergone any material changes. I have the Honor to be, with the greatest respect & regard Dr Sir, Your Most Obedt servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Zebulon Butler, 15 May 1780
From: Butler, Zebulon
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellencey
Wyoming [Pa.] May 15th 1780

Your order of the 7th April Came safe to hand I shall wait your excellencys further Orders, Nothing Matirael has happend since my last, only the men Mentioned in my last Being taken at fishing Creek &c. Came in with The Indian guns Tomhocks &c. as the first party Did, and Actually Brought in Two Indian Scalps, I have Heared of Late Mischiefs

being done one the West brance of Susqh. and on Delewair but None in this Quarter, I have orders from the Board of war to Engage Thirty of the Militia Which I have done for the Defenc of this Frontier Capt. Seeling the Bearrer will hand this to your Excellency he is A Gentlemen of the Free Core That is stationed at this post and has Leave of Absince to wait on your excellency as he says on Business Respecting the Core he Expects To Return to this post Immediately. I have the Honour to be your Excellencys Most obt Humbe Servt

Zebn Butler Col.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Christopher Greene, 15 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Christopher

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 15th May 1780

Be pleased immediately upon the Rect hereof to set your Regiment to work in making Fascines. They are to be from 12 to 18 feet in length and 10 inches thick, well bound and cut square at both ends—of these kinds they may make as many as they can till further orders, and a few hundreds 6 feet long and 15 inches thick—a number of split stakes of hard wood will also be necessary to fix the Fascines, they must be 4 feet long and 3 inches square—I have some reason to think that Genl Gates last fall provided a parcel of platform Plank and several other Articles

necessary for the construction of Works—Be pleased to make an enquiry and if you find any such, have them collected. I am &c.

P.S. Be pleased to have all the public Boats and Craft collected and if they want any repairs direct the Qr Mr to have it done.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 15 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Hay, Udny

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 15th May 1780

Upon looking to a General Return of Qr Masters Stores I find there were 1200 lb. of Oakum and 164 Barrels of Tar at Albany the 7th January last—As the repair of the Boats upon the north River was delayed for want of the above Articles you will be pleased to order them down, and set every hand who understands the Business to work upon the Boats—I am exceedingly anxious to have them put in condition for service, and you will therefore oblige me by paying all possible attention to the matter. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 15 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Dr Sir
Head Qrs [Morristown] May the 15th 1780

I have the pleasure to inform You in strict confidence, that we have authentic advices of his Most Christian Majesty’s determination to

send a respectable armament of Sea & Land forces, to operate on the Continent—and that the period is not remote when we may expect their arrival. Having informed You of this, I am now to add, that the destruction of Hallifax—of the Naval arsenals & Garrison there—is a primary Object with our Allies, as, this being effected, the support of the Enemy’s Marine in these Seas and in the West Indies, would be exceedingly difficult & precarious; and in this view that there is nothing they seem to wish for more. It would certainly be an event of infinite importance to them and of course to the common cause—and therefore we ought as far as possible, to give every aid in our pow⟨e⟩r to accomplish it. It may be essential to the success of any attempt that may be made against the place, to obtain previous information with respect to the force—the Corps that are there—of the number—sort & condition of the Fortifications—and also of the Ships of War—which are points about which our Allies appear to be in the dark—and on which unhappily I cannot give them the necessary satisfaction myself. I therefore earnestly request that You will assist me in this very important business as far as present circumstances will permit, by communicating to me by the earliest opportunity, the result of such enquiries as You shall make on the subject. You cannot be too minute and particular with respect to it—and I should hope from the frequent flags which I think I have heard have passed between Hallifax & Boston for the exchange of prisoners, that You may gain good & useful intelligence upon the occasion. I request this as a first step; but besides I wish You if possible, to send to Hallifax in such way as may appear the most likely to succeed, One or Two persons of good understanding and in whose firmness & fidelity we may safely rely, to obtain the most exact accounts of these matters. If they could be Draftsmen they would be so much the better, as a good plan of the Fortifications would be of essential service and is what our Friends are very desirous of obtaining. I have written to the Honourable Mr Bowdoine a confidential Letter on these subjects—and I am persuaded that he and the Council, without disclosing the matter, on your application if you should find it necessary to make one, will most chearfully do any thing that may be requisite to promote the plan for obtaining intelligence, and will assist You with Money, if You should have occasion for it. If You can engage proper persons to go on the business—you may stipulate with them for a generous compensation to be made them on their return—and which will be encreased in proportion to the importance of the information they bring. You will extend your enquiries in like manner to the post & Garrison at penobscot and procure the best account of these that You can. If our Allies should operate against Hallifax—they will necessarily have occasion for some skilful & faithful pilots acquainted with the Coast & Harbour; I

therefore wish You to turn your attention to the matter and to inform me whether such may be had in case they are wanted. You will also do the same with respect to penobscot. Indeed it might be best if you have an opportunity, to speak to some of the pilots who would be proper to be employed and without discovering the matter with respect to an arrival of a fleet from France, know whether in case of such an expedition they would embark in it. I am Dr Sir with great regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt servt

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Jedediah Huntington, 15 May 1780
From: Huntington, Jedediah
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
[Springfield] Monday Morning 15 may [1780]

The Officer on Command at Newark informs me that four Square rigd Vessels & 14 others went up Hackinsack River last Evening—three of the Vessels appeared to have Some Troops on board & they had a Number of flat Boats.
Our Guards could not be all relieved before this day—I expect to march to morrow—and am, your Excellency most obedient Servant

J. Huntington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Jedediah Huntington, 15 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Jedediah

Dr Sr
Head Qrs Morris Town May 15th 1780

Notwithstanding the Jersey Brigade has moved down in order to relieve your command, I wish you to remain where you are until you hear further from me. I am &.

G.W.

P.s. As I have recd intelligence of a movement of the Enemy, I beg you will keep the Troops in the most compact order & readiness to march on the shortest notice should circumstances require it. You will be prepared on the score of provision also.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 15 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 15th May 1780

I have the pleasure to inform Your Excellency confidentially that a French Fleet may in the course of a few Weeks be expected upon this Coast, and as it is uncertain what part of the land they may first make, Gentlemen are to be stationed at different points to give them Signals and to make them some necessary communications immediately upon their arrival. Major Galvan who will have the honor of delivering this to your Excellency is appointed to go down to Cape Henry for the purposes above mentioned, and as He will have occasion to keep one or

two Boats in constant readiness to go off upon the appearance of the Fleet, I shall be much obliged by your giving an order to the person who has the superintendance of the public Vessels and Craft in Virginia to supply him with the necessary number—Should the public have none of the proper kind in their possession, you will be pleased to recommend to Major Galvan the most certain and speedy methods of procuring them— One or two skilful and trusty pilots will also be necessary, that if any of the ships should have occasion to enter the Bay, they may not be at a loss.
Your Excellency will no doubt see the propriety of keeping the object of Major Galvans mission as much a secret as possible, lest the importance of the dispatches with which he is charged might be an inducement to some of the disaffected to take him off—It would add much to his security, if your Excellency would be good enough to introduce him to some Gentleman in the neighbourhood of Cape Henry, in whom he may confide and with whom he may remain while in that quarter.
It is essentially necessary that Major Galvan should be constantly informed of the operations in south Carolina, and as he will be out of the common track of intelligence, I have desired him to keep up a communication with your Excellency—Your acquainting him therefore with what comes to your knowledge either officially or sufficiently authentic to be depended upon may be productive of most salutary consequences. I would beg leave to recommend Major Galvan generally to your Excellency for every public assistance of which he may stand in need, and particularly to your personal Civilities. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect and Esteem Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 15 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

My dear sir
Head Qrs Morris Town May 15th 1780

I have duly received your favor of the 9th of last Month, containing an account of the Enemy’s movements till that period. Since the receipt of this I have seen a Copy of a Letter from the Honble Mr Gervais, one of the Council, as low down as the 15th—and was happy to find by it that their Batteries, though they had been opened some days, had done You but very little damage; and I was made still more happy yesterday by a report from New York, that You were all well on the 1st Instant. God grant it may have been true & that you may maintain your Post. As obstructing the passage of the Cooper was of some importance—I wish that You may have accomplished it.
I have the pleasure to acquaint You, that the Marquiss de la Fayette arrived within a few days past in an Express Frigate from France, which he left the 20th of March. At that time Britain had formed no alliances that were known—nor does the Marquiss seem to be under the least apprehension of her being able to do it. The Marquiss comes the Messenger of other good news—and on which I congratulate You. His Most Christian Majesty of his great magnanimity and regard for us, has determin⟨ed⟩ to send a very respectable Armament of Land & Sea forces to our succour. I expect that it will arrive early next month—and persuade myself that it will be the means of giving You certain & effectual relief. I wish my Letter may get safe to hand, as the communication of this important event must have a pleasing influence on the minds of the Troops—and will enable You with the more facility to persevere in your determination of defending the Town to the last extremity. Adieu. I remain with every wish for your success—& happiness Yr Affect. Hb. sert

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 15 May 1780
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Connecticut Farms [N.J.] 15th May 1780

The Troops of my Brigad arived here yesterday Coll Dayton with his Regiment has taken the command of Elizth Town and it’s Vicinity The remaindr of the Brigade after furnishing the guard at Raway, Woodbridge, and New Ark will remain here till I have Your Excellencys Instructions.
I had the pleasure Yesterday in the afternoon to go in company with Lord Stirling & the Field Officers to Elizth Town, we examined the place, to find the most sutable to erect works on; The place fixed on by His Lordship, and the others, is to the West of the Town where a part of my Brigade was encamped on in the year 78. If Your Excellency is determined to cary on the works, an Engineer will be absolutely necessary, we have got our Tents and Stored them for the present, we expect the Intrenching tools to day. While we was at the Point yesterday twenty two Vessels came from New York to Deckers Ferry including two or three square rigged ones; I have heared that they passed afterwa⟨r⟩d into New Ark Bay. I am with much respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

Wm Maxwell


Title: General Orders, 16 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters Morristown Tuesday May 16th 1780
Parole Williamsburgh.  Countersigns Wells, Wales.

[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:]
To command the manœuvring battalions tomorrow[:] Colonels Cortlandt & Jackson. Lt Colonels Robinson & Hay.
All officers absent from the Army except on Furloughs not expired recruiting or on command are forthwith to join their Corps. The officers commanding Divisions will pay particular attention to have this order executed.
The manœuvring Battalions to be formed in the field opposite Stark’s Brigade precisely at Nine o clock tomorrow morning: Two Adjutants from the Pennsylvania Division to be added to these Battalions: They are to be furnished with a Standard from the Pennsylvania Division and one from Clinton’s brigade: Brigade Major from the 1st Pennsylvania Brigade to attend the formation.


Title: To George Washington from Clement Biddle, 16 May 1780
From: Biddle, Clement
To: Washington, George

Sir
Morris Town May. 16. 1780.

From my constant Attendance on the Duties of my Offices in Camp, I have been prevented from bringing the extensive accounts of the business which I have transacted to a settlement, altho’ I have sent them to be lodged at Philadelphia to be ready for the purpose when I should be called on by the Treasury board—They could not be completed til I could pay some further Attention to them, than was possible in Camp and from my anxiety to accomplish so important a business, early last fall I informed Genl Greene of my desire to leave the Army on the close of the Campaign; but finding the difficulties we were like to encounter

on our arrival at this ground, I continued to serve, that I might contribute to remedy them, as far as was in my power.
Congress having recommended that the supplies of Forage for the Army should be provided by the different States, most of their Legislatures have undertaken to furnish the Quotas required of them and of course the remaining duties of the Office I fill, are chiefly the calling forth from the magazines and directing the issues of Forage for the Army and the Alotment of Pasturage. The Change in the System of Supplies makes my presence with the Army much less necessary and the Office may be equaly well filled by another person.
But I have received from the Treasury board the most peremptory Orders to deliver the whole of my Accounts & vouchers at their Office in Philadelphia for final settlement, on or before the first day of June next, and by a resolve, they declare, that such as neglect to comply with the said Order, shall be prosecuted as delinquents and advertised as public defaulters.
I have ever been anxious to bring my Accounts to a close and wish to pay an immediate Obedience to the call of the Treasury board, which I am the more urgently induced to, as the deputi⟨es⟩ who have lately acted under me, have many of them resign’d and are waiting for the settlement of their Accounts, which cannot be done unless I attend to them in person for a Considerable time as my Assistant in Philadelphia who superintended the Accounts there, has inform’d me it is out of his power longer to serve me, and if I should not attend to them and any accident should prevent my doing it in future my family would be involved in ruin.
As the Duties I am called to will require my being so long Absent from the Army and a new arrangement is now taking place, I have represented my situation to General Greene and obtaind his permission to resign, but I have offerd my Services at Philadelphia for the remainder of the year to superintend the Calling forth and forwarding the supplies of Forage for the Army, in which (if it should be thought necessary) I think I can serve to more advantage than in Camp and I wish for no reward except the six Rations which are now allow’d & Forage for two horses while I am so employed.
As it has ever been my utmost wish and Endeavours to serve the Army and to obtain your Approbation, I shall be happy in exerting my Abilities in future to the same ends, but I hope your Excellency will see and approve the necessity of my leaving the Army to attend at Philadelphia before the first of June next. With the most sincere Prayers for success to our Arms, a happy Conclusion of the war and for your preservation, I remain with the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient & very humble Servant

Clement Biddle


Title: From George Washington to Major William Galvan, 16 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Galvan, William

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 16th May 1780

A French Fleet being expected shortly upon this Coast, it will be necessary to have Officers stationed at different points to make them

Signals upon their first arrival—You being appointed to go down to Cape Henry in Virginia, will be charged with dispatches and communications for the French Admiral and General and will be made acquainted with the signals of recognizance—All these, and any further commands, you will receive from Major General the Marquis de la Fayette, at present in Philada to which place you will repair with the utmost expedition—I need not recommend to you the necessity of your keeping the object of your Mission as much a secret as possible. I am with great Regard Sir.

P.S. You will be pleased to correspond with me when any thing material occurs or when you find opportunities.


Title: To George Washington from Ensign Henry Hamilton, 16 May 1780
From: Hamilton, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
Lancaster [Pa.] 16th May 1780

I had the Honour to write to you three Months Since, in order to Obtain permission, for a Short time, to go into New York.
Hitherto I have had no Answer, thro’ which I am Apprehensive you did not receive my Letter. Notwithstanding I hope this will come safe to hand & meet your Excellency’s favorable Approbation and Answer. As I now Request, that you will be pleased to grant me a parole to go into New York for a few days, to settle my accounts &c. I have the Honour to be your Excellency’s Most Obedient & Most Humble Servt

Heny Hamilton Ensn & Adjutant 17th Infy


Title: From George Washington to Major General Lafayette, 16 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

My Dear Marquis
Head Quarters Morris Town 16th May 1780.

Since you left me, I have more fully reflected on the plan which it will be proper for the French fleet and army to persue, on their arrival upon the Coast and it appears to me in the present situation of the enemy at New York, that it ought to be our first object to reduce that post and that it is of the utmost importance not to lose a moment in repairing to that place. I would therefore advise you to write to the Count De Rochembeau and Monsr De Ternay in the following spirit—urging them in the strongest terms to proceed both fleet and army with all possible expedition to Sandy Hook, where they will be met with further advices, of the precise situation strength and disposition of the enemy and of our army and with proposals for their future movements; unless they should have received authentic accounts that the fleet and troops now operating in the Southern states, have evacuated them and formed ajunction at New York. In this case; if they arrive at Rhode Island, they can disembark their troops dispose of their sick and wait till a more definitive plan can be concerted; or if they arrive off Cape Henry they can proceed directly to Rhode Island and make the same arrangements. But in case they should not have received the accounts abovementioned of the evacuation of the Southern states and junction at New York, and should proceed directly to Sandy Hook as is recommended they can send their sick and every thing of which they wish to be disencumbered, to Rhode Island.
The reasons for proceeding immediately to New York in the present situation of the enemy there are these—Their whole effective land force in regular troops is about 8000 men to which may be added about 4000 refugees and such of the militia as they would be able by persuasion or force to engage; but on the militia they can I should suppose place no great dependence. Their naval force is one ship of 74 guns and three or four small frigates. If the arrival of the French succour

should find them in this situation, the fleet can enter the harbour of New York without diff[ic]ulty, and this is a point on which the success of the whole enterprise absolutely turns—By stopping at Rhode Island, if they arrive there or by passing from Cape Henry to Rhode Island, the most precious time will be lost which will multiply the chances to the enemy of concentering their force, of receiving a naval reinforcement from England or the West Indies of increasing their precautions to obstruct the Channel, and their preparations for the defence of their posts By gaining possession of the Harbour and cutting off its communications the present garrison at New York would be unable to resist the efforts of the combined forces; and together with their ships must in all probability fall into our hands. On the contrary if they have time to concenter all their sea and land force on the Continent at New York, the enterprise against that place becomes extremely arduous has much less prospect of success and will at least exhaust the whole campaign to bring it to a favourable issue.
The enemy have in the expedition under Sir Henry Clinton about seven thousand land troops—three ships of the line one fifty gun two forty four—and some smaller frigates. If these ships were added to the force at New York, they would I apprehend be sufficient to exclude the French Squadron, unless aided by a vigorous cooperation by land towards Sandy Hook; and the garrison increased to fourteen or fifteen thousand regular troops would present immense difficulties in the way of its reduction.
I observed that the French Squadron would find no difficulty in entering the Port of New York, with the present naval force of the enemy there. The only possible obstacle to this is the obstructions the enemy are preparing; but I am inclined to hope these will be ineffectual and will be easily removed. They last fall made an attempt of the kind on the expectation of Count D’Estaing, but it failed from the depth of the water and rapidity of the current. Pilots for the harbour can be ready at Black point in the Jerseys, from which they can go on Board the fleet at its first appearance.
I would wish you to place these things in the fullest light to the French Commanders—by way of recommendation, leaving it to them to act according to the condition of the fleet and troops, with respect to health and other essential matters, and if they prefer it to go immediately to Rhode Island from Cape Henry, or if they arrive at the former place in the first instance, to wait till a definitive plan is adopted. But I think every reason points to the mode here recommended.
You will be sensible my Dear Sir, that we can at present only touch upon preliminary measures—The plan for ultimate operations must be the result of mature deliberation, a full view of our resources and must

be formed in conjunction with the General and Admiral of the French forces.
I refer Mr Galvan to you for instructions; but I send you a letter to Governor Jefferson of Virginia to give him any assistance he may require and to correspond with him on the state of Southern affairs. His own discretion and the information he will get on the spot must chiefly govern him. He cannot be dispatched too soon.
I request you in writing to the Count De Rochembeau and Mr De Ternay to assure them of all my respect and consideration, of the high sense I entertain of this distinguished mark of His Christian Majestys friendship to these states, and of the happiness I anticipate in a personal acquaintance and cooperation with Gentlemen, whose reputations have inspired me with the greatest esteem for their talents and merit. You will add that I will do every thing on my part to give success to the intended operations, and that I flatter myself they will be attended with the happiest consequences.
I cannot forbear recalling your attention to the importance of doing every thing possible to engage the Count De Guichen to come upon this Coast without delay. The more I reflect upon it, the more essential it appears. With this addition to our present plan we should have reason to flatter our selves with every thing; without it we have a great deal to apprehend—and instead of the happiest, the worst conseque⟨nces⟩ may ensue to the common cause. I am my Dear Marquis with the greatest truth and affection Yr friend & servant.

P.S. I am just informed that a Gentleman called your Aide De Camp and the Consul of France at Boston have had a duel in which the latter has been mortally wounded. Tis probable the Gentleman supposed to be your Aide is The Chevalier De Fayolles—If so it may perhaps throw him into embarrassments which may put it out of his power to execute the intended Commission, which makes it prudent to think of some other person.


Title: From George Washington to John Rutledge, 16 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rutledge, John

Dr Sir,
Hd Qrs Morris Town 16th May 1780

I have the honor to inclose your Excellency two copies of a letter for General Lincoln, which you will observe contain intelligence the most important. It is a question how far it is the interest of these states to have the siege of Charles Town raised at this juncture; for if the arrival of the French fleet should find the enemy in their present divided state there is every reason to hope for the most decisive consequences. on the other hand if they should concenter their force at New York an operation against it would be attended with immense difficulty delay and hazard—but the Southern states would be relieved—an advantage of the greatest moment. We have great reason to believe the enemy have received advice by a frigate lately from England of the intention of our allies; if this is the case secrecy on our part would answer little purpose (indeed it is to a certain point impracticable.) Sir Henry in this case will probably have taken his measures before this arrives, and unless he expects a naval support from England, will have abandonned the enterprise. Lest however a want of certainty in his advices may have induced

him to continue his operations, it may be of consequence to apprise General Lincoln and the garrison of the expected succour. It would give new spirit to the defence and may tend to prolong it till effectual assistance can be given, either by directing the French armament to the Southward or by operations in this quarter. You will therefore have the goodness to transmit my letter to him if you have any communication open.
The intention of sending you two copies is this—Should the progress of the enemy against the Town indicate its speedy loss you can so contrive it, that one of the copies may fall into the enemy’s hands, as if by accident, or you can otherwis⟨e⟩ take effectual measures to give them such information of it as they will believe—This may possibly either precipitate their measures to an unfavourable issue or make them relinquish the siege; and in one way or the other save the Town.
If you should not think the Town in material danger it will be best to confine the knowlege of what I now communicate, and not let it go beyond General Lincoln. In this case I would not wish to alarm the enemy—for the reasons already assigned.
I am happy to learn by the way of New York that Charles Town was still safe the first of this Month—I hope it has continued so: A failure in this attempt will have the greatest influence to the prejudice of the affairs of England. I congratulate you on this new instance of the friendship of our ally—The part the Court of France has acted is truly politic and magnanimous and has a claim to the lasting affection of this Country. With every sentiment of respect and esteem I have the honor to be—Sir Your most Obedt & humble servant.

P.S. I request your Excellency’s opinion as speedily as possible, in case the French fleet and army should proceed to the Southward—where under present circumstances would be a proper place of debarkation—whether a sufficiency of provisions can be procured—the means of transportation for an army—horses for the officers and for a corps of three hundred Cavalry.


Title: Editorial Note
From:
To:

Since 1778, GW had relied on the Culper spy network for intelligence from inside New York City. In May 1780, the network’s spy in the city, Robert Townsend, refused to serve any longer, and his contact on Long Island, Abraham Woodhull, also one of the Culper spies, became

reluctant to continue. GW accepted their withdrawal, but he kept open the possibility of reviving the network. Dissatisfied with the lengthy transmission time of the Culper reports now that the main army was stationed in New Jersey, GW already had begun creating new intelligence-gathering operations in the New York City area that would send reports via Staten Island, a route he previously had utilized when the army was east of the Hudson River.
John Mercereau, whom GW often employed as an intelligence operative, set up one such network in April, with his chief informant being Abraham Bancker, who used the pseudonym “Amicus Reipublicae.” Mercereau’s brother Joshua Mersereau had employed Bancker from August 1776 to October 1777 as one of his “confidential Friends” to fulfill GW’s requests for intelligence. John Mercereau expected weekly reports, and Bancker usually sent them at this pace. Bancker likely had other contacts in New York City: he alternately used “we” and “me” in his intelligence reports. When he revealed himself as Amicus Reipublicae in a 1789 letter to GW, however, he indicated that he had penned the letters. Bancker wrote that he had corresponded with “certain communicative Characters, within the British Lines, (friendly to the American Cause,).” John Mercereau transmitted Bancker’s reports to GW, who usually docketed them “Through Mersereau.” Bancker addressed his letters from Staten Island, but he usually reported on events there and in New York City. He apparently moved freely between the two locations.
The first known missive signed “Amicus Reipublicae” is dated 17 May 1780. Bancker continued to send reports from July through November (nine are in DLC:GW). According to a later representation from John Mercereau, GW “always appeared to be much pleased and well satisfied with [Bancker’s] Accounts.” At the end of the war, then Brig. Gen. Elias Dayton, who sometimes received the reports, certified that during the course of the conflict Bancker had “been assiduous to promote the Cause of the United States, by procuring and transmitting, at the manifest Hazard of his Life, Intelligences that were calculated to facilitate the Operations of the American Army and defeat the Designs of the British.”
GW set up other spies during this period. He established Francis Van Dyke as an intermediary for a spy in New York City and assigned New York lieutenant colonel Marinus Willett to form the chain linking headquarters with the same spy. An “agent at Secaucus,” N.J., would act as the go-between for an “Intelligencer at New-York.” Willett introduced Van Dyke to GW as the person who could perform the required duties. When Van Dyke arrived at headquarters, he and GW discussed a “plan” to create a network for the delivery of intelligence from New York City,

and GW subsequently gave him directions. Van Dyke, however, had trouble establishing a correspondence with his contact in the city, and GW quickly became dissatisfied with his intelligence, declaring it “very vague and uncertain” as well as “incorrect.”
  More problematically, Van Dyke may not have been totally loyal to the American cause. In the fall of 1780, Maj. Benjamin Tallmadge informed New York governor George Clinton of an incident involving a Francis Van Dyke: “I am in duty bound to observe that sometime about the 22d ulto., a detachment of our Regt. taking Post near Pines Bridge, I went with several other Officers, to the House of Joseph McKull, where we found one Francis Van Dyke, from Poughkeepsie, who was permited to escort some Tory Families to our Lines. As we arrived at McKull’s a little after midnight, and being in the uniform of some of the Enemies Corps, the Family & Van-dyke took us to be a detachment of the Enemy. In Consequence of this, several of them, but Van Dyke in particular unbosomed himself very fully. Among other things he gave us all the information he could respecting West Point, the Country &c.” According to Tallmadge, Van Dyke “also promised to assist in making” George Clinton “a Prisoner, & secreting any Party which might be sent up on that Purpose.” Tallmadge wanted to secure him, but Van Dyke “being undeceived respecting his Visitants … took a very abrupt leave.” The escaped Francis Van Dyke may not have been the same man who acted as a go-between for GW, but if he was, then this incident suggests that Van Dyke may have been more loyal to the British, or at least a double agent. In the period covered by this volume, only GW’s letter to Van Dyke is extant. Van Dyke sent reports to GW on 22, 28, and 29 June, but none of those letters has been found.
GW’s newest agents were Abraham Bancker and Francis Van Dyke, but some of his most reliable sources of intelligence also continued to operate in this period. Maj. Gen. Robert Howe’s spies kept him supplied with intelligence from New York City and its environs. In May and June, Howe conveyed information from his spies in six letters. Howe had multiple spies active in and about the city. While other officers’ spies provided them with information on embarkations, ship movements, and public opinion in New York, Howe’s agents conveyed additional intelligence on British operations in Westchester County and on British military objectives in the Hudson River region, both highly important to GW’s operations. GW also employed Howe’s agents to feed false information to the British in New York. The postscript to one letter indicates that GW may have known the identity of one of Howe’s spies, possibly Elijah Hunter. Howe considered information from some of his sources to be so reliable that it could be called “authentic.”

Col. Elias Dayton also continued to maintain a spy network that provided GW with useful information from New York. During the first half of 1780, Dayton appears to have had several contacts active in New York and its environs. His spies typically reported on ship movements and embarkations at New York, and on conditions and activities in the city. One of his informants, likely a double agent, was interviewed by Lt. Gen. Wilhelm von Knyphausen’s aide. Dayton later received a letter from a man in the Royal Provincial Guides and Pioneers who described British dispositions on Staten Island and offered to become a spy; Dayton passed the letter to GW’s headquarters. Dayton also sometimes received reports from Bancker.
With the Amicus Reipublicae reports through Mercereau complementing the intelligence networks run by Howe and Dayton, GW had in place a robust system for obtaining information in the New York City area of operations. Yet he was not satisfied. In July, with the French expeditionary force expected at any moment, GW sought to re-activate the Culper spy ring. For secondary treatments of GW’s intelligence operations during the late spring and early summer of 1780, see Bakeless, Turncoats, Traitors and HeroesJohn Bakeless. Turncoats, Traitors and Heroes. Philadelphia, 1959., 180–81; Nagy, Secret Spy WarJohn A. Nagy. George Washington’s Secret Spy War: The Making of America’s First Spymaster. New York, 2016., 149–71, 190–98; Nagy, SpycraftJohn A. Nagy. Invisible Ink: Spycraft of the American Revolution. Yardley, Pa., 2010., 141–47, 179–80; and Rose, Washington’s SpiesAlexander Rose. Washington’s Spies: The Story of America’s First Spy Ring. New York, 2006., 184–94.


Title: I. From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 19 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town May 19th 1780

Your favor of the 8th reached me a few days ago. As C—— junr has totally declined and C—— Senr seems to wish to do it, I think the intercourse may be dropped, more especially as from our present position the intelligence is so long getting to hand that it is of no use by the time it reaches me. I would however have you take an opportunity of informing the Elder C—— that we may have occasion for his services again in the course of the Summer and that I shall be glad to employ him if it should become necessary and he is willing.
I am endeavouring to open a communication with new York across Staten Island, but who are the agents in the city I do not know. I am Dr Sir Your most obet servt

Go: Washington


Title: III. “Amicus Reipublicae” to John Mercereau, 20 May 1780
From: “Amicus Reipublicae”
To: Mercereau, John

[20 May 1780]

In Consequence of an Express from Europe to Sir Henry Clinton pr the Pearl Frigate intimating that a Large Fleet Consisting of Severel Sail of the Line & a large Body of Troops had made an Elopement from Brest & were Destined for the Continent the Irish frigate was dispatched with the intilligence to Clinton, & immediately the inhabitints of new york were Commanded to prepare for thier Reception in Case they might be Bound to this port which is the general Opinion of Our Politicians a Breast work in form of an half Moon is Constructing near the Water works last wednesday Morning ground was Broke on Corlers hook on the most advantagious Spot[.] it has a very Extensive Command when finished will Contain 500 Men the Militia work at this fort 3 Compenies the fore Noon Same Number the Afternoon 50 in a Compeny and are very deligent to Secure the City from any Assult by Sea or land I am told that 16 days only is Alowed to Complete this fortification which is to be Styled the Loyel Citizens Redoubt, indeed they are very Assiduous to Acomplish it but the Engineers are of Opinion it will take three weeks, ere it will be finished, The Dist[ance] about 300 yards from a small fort Near Jone’s’s & is near 2 fortifications much Demolished and of little Use Next week you may Expect to hear More perticuler as it will take Some time to get A[u]thentic information, the Independent Compenies Guard the City while the Reguler forses are on the Out posts By the best information we Can procure as yet there are abt 12 large Sloops and Schooners Laden with Stone to Sink as Cheveaux de frize to Obstruct

the paseage in the Channel they are gone to the hook and are to be Sunk at the first apearence of an Enemy the Galatea a Copper Bottom frigate is Now one of the principel Ships in the Harbour indeed Nothing Superier to a Frigate remains tho they are in Continuel Expectation of Admirel Graves to Command on this Station which Augmentation it is Imagened will Render the British Navy in this Quarter Equel if Not Superier to the french fleat that is Expected, the Rusel is gone out on a Cruise great part of her Crew impressed just before her Departure, the ⟨Out⟩ line Strengthening the Fort at Brookli⟨ne⟩ which is beyond Dispute a very Respectable Fortress.
they are very Suspicious of a french fleat Coming here there are Dispaches gone for Genel Clinton if he Can take Charles town to garison it, the Reste of the troops to Come here, if he fails after an attempt made by Storm the hole to Come, which is to be att the Risk of half his army.


Title: IV. Unknown to Francis Van Dyke, c. 26 May 1780
From: Unknown
To: Van Dyke, Francis

[c.26 May 1780]
May 26th Left New York

Eight or teen Ships of war the Largist twenty four guns.
a Rainforce ment of three thousand men gon to Cannada to keepe the inhabbatance undur.
Very few trups in the City and adjasint placis not more then Six & Sevin thousand[,] betwise three & four thousand fit for Duty.
The Channal in the E[a]st rivur Block up[.] 15 Ships gon downe the Narrows redy for Sinkkng[.] 15 more Redy for the Same purpus.
Back or Neair Bulls farry a Party Cuting wood have Bult a Blockhous with 2 Piecs Cannon & 300 men to Defend it.
a frend at Bargan [Bergen] heard their is Sum Ships gon up the North rivur as far as toppan.
Satturday night a Parsal of flatt Bottum Boats wint to Stattan Island on their way to Brumswick.
Next windsday Expects to have Sumting of importes in writng.


Title: VII. “Amicus Reipublicae” to John Mercereau, 1 June 1780
From: “Amicus Reipublicae”
To: Mercereau, John

New York 1 June 1780.

An expedition is forming (on Some part of ⟨illegible⟩ Hackensack, but as it is conceiv⟨able⟩ ⟨illegible⟩ it is impossible to give any certain fact or what Number of Men are going, however it ⟨illegible⟩ you to be particularly watchful of Bergen ⟨Curency⟩. I am told by an intelligent Person, who is ⟨Conversant⟩ with a Counterfeiter of Continental Curr[enc]y ⟨illegible⟩ a certain Person, who is in the commissary line on your Side, has involved himself by being prodigal of the public Expenditures, has Sent him his Order for Counterfeit Bills to the Amt of £150,000 to Supply the deficiency thereby occasioned, which it is to be feared will cause much Trouble, if not prevented ere it circulates among the

Farmers. ⟨illegible⟩ Monday Morng the Iris arrived from the Southward; & brings Advice, that Sir Henry Clinton finding A regular Seige fruitless, had Stormed the Lines of Charlestown on the 12th Inst., which fell after a noble resistance—900 Americans it is Said were Slain, but from no Acct of ⟨illegible⟩ Sustained in the English ⟨illegible⟩ Capture of Genl Lincoln’s Army; which is reported to ⟨consist⟩ of 6,000 effective Men, among whom are ⟨Genl⟩ Lincoln & 5 other general Officers, Governor Rutledge was overtaken in his retreat & many ⟨others⟩ of distinction besides which, Many Ships ⟨mutilated⟩ & Naval Vessels Serve as trophies to adorn the ⟨Signal⟩ Victory which Mr Rivington considers as the greatest feat performed Since the Commence⟨ment⟩ of the Rebellion. In Consequence of which, the Attention of the Refugee Merchts are principally turned towards the Southward & a fleet of Merchantmen will Sail, you may depend, in a Short Time for Charlestown, which it is reasonable to Supp⟨ose⟩ will be badly convoy’d as few Ships of Force are in this Harbour—The Harrison & Argo, Ameri⟨can⟩ Privateers of 20 Guns each, are arrived here, the former Prize to the Galatea, & the latter to the Iris frigate.
Privateering is ⟨illegible⟩ great ⟨illegible⟩ of Spirit. ⟨In⟩ the Course of the Week before the ⟨illegible⟩ Privateers Sailed out of Port to Cruise ⟨off the⟩ Coast—The Works abt Town are nearly ⟨complet⟩ed , but Seem to be less ⟨Anxious⟩ ⟨illegible⟩ ⟨lost⟩ all Apprehension of a french fleet—⟨By the⟩ Last Packet we are informed that a french ⟨fleet⟩ of 17 Sail of the Line is ⟨illegible⟩ in the ⟨Brest Channel⟩ & have nothing to oppose them—⟨illegible⟩ of the Light Horse on Staten Island have ⟨illegible⟩ows 80 of ⟨Simcoe’s⟩ & 17 of Stewart’s American’s 20 British Dragoons & 25 German Hussars—The News, of Charlestown’s Surrender has raised the Prices of English Goods, especially Irish Linnens have raised 25 & Oznabrigs 50 pr Ct Abrm Bogart residing at Peter Buskirk’s on ⟨Contables⟩ Point, Bergen ⟨has⟩ Served in the Capacity of a guide on a late ⟨Excursion⟩, who, unless Secured, may give you farther Trouble—The Loyalists here have Shewn a per⟨illegible⟩ Spirit Since the late Accts & now look with disdain on those of a different Sentiment ⟨illegible⟩ themselves certain of Proceeding—One ⟨of⟩ our friends was Sent to Provost on Tuesday ⟨illegible⟩ anymore will follow. Thus while Benevole⟨nt⟩ ⟨mutilated⟩ on the one hand, the Fear of being detected restrains us on the other, from being ⟨as⟩ Serviceable as we would wish in an Affa⟨ir⟩ the good or ill Management of which Life is ⟨illegible⟩ ding.

A——s Re——


Title: VIII. From George Washington to Francis Van Dyke, 17 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Van Dyke, Francis

Sir,
Camp near Spring-field 17th June 1780.

Pursuant to the plan agreed on between us, you are to use yr utmost endeavours to communicate with —— in the City of New York for the purpose of obtaining the quickest & best intelligence of the movements & designs of the enemy & other occurrences which is to be conveyed to me with the greatest expedition & certainty.
The mode of conveying this intelligence to head Qrs will be left to yourself—œconomy in conducting the business, generally, is indispensably necessary—keep an acct of the expences attending it—& the money shall be paid on demand by Sir Yr Very Hble Servt

G. W——n


Title: IX. “Amicus Reipublicae” to John Mercereau, 24 June 1780
From: “Amicus Reipublicae”
To: Mercereau, John

New York 24th June 1780

Friday last arrived [at] Sandy Hook Genl Clinton with abt 5000 fighting Men according to the best information we’ve been able to procure from Charlestown leaving as a Garrison the 63d 64th & 71st British Regiments, the remaining Forces are employed in bringing the Southern States into Subjection [u]nder Lord Cornwallis it is promulgated by the Officers that he had penetrated as great distance from Charlestown as the last Accts left him at Camden in North Carolina. They appear certain of reducing the United States of America, & expect that this Campaign will nearly bring about the desirable end. Many Merchants are making great preparations for the Southward. I am told that two trading Vessels, the Hawke Brig, Captn Slator, & the Hananel are to

proceed on their Course to day. Genl Clinton made his Appearance at Staten Island Monday Morng last & took his residence at Mr Banker’s The Troops disembarked that day & the following & were Stationed at different Places on the Island to recr⟨uit⟩ Since which an embarkation of the whole has taken place & the Shipping went up the North River yesterday with the main Body abt 4000 Men, leaving behind 2 Regts the Queen’s Rangers & 1 Hessoise.
The grand Fort at West Point is Said to be their Object in view, as they esteem that a Key to the eastern States, & fancy if they shall once be possessd of that Passage, that they will be able to prevent all Supplies coming to Genl Washingto⟨ns⟩ Army. They ridicule the Opposition you are making to impede their progress, as they seem confident that the depreciation of your Curry & the ill Success that ⟨has⟩ attended your Arms will give a final Stroke to American Politicks. You must be very cautious whom you trust for you have internal Enemies whom you consider as real frie⟨nds.⟩ The following Instance I relate from good Authority. On the 4th Inst: a Whaleboat armed came from Egg Harbour or Shrewsbury Inlet under Pretence of Searching the Coast for Enemies Vessels but when out of your Sight fell in with a fishing Craft from New York to whom they deliver’d their Cargo, consisting of Gammon, Cheese Eggs &c. closely pack’d in Casks & 3 British prisoners taken at the Surprize of Stoney Point among whom ⟨was a⟩ Sergt Major.
An accurate Acct of the Navy will be procured in a ⟨few⟩ days, can’t learn of many Ships of force except the Russel of 74 the Europa of 64 & the Renown of 44, the Iris of 20 & five Frigate names & force unknown, but the next dispatches will give you a better Acct Great was the Consternation before the Fleet appeared, as all the Standing Army was on Duty in Jersey, except the 6th new levied Highland Volunteers, which were to have followed the beginning of this Week, when the City would have been left entirely to the inhabitants who were paraded this day Se’nnight & received Arms & Ammunition for that Purpos—The proper Channel of our Correspondence being obstructed by the late expedition we did not conceive of any orders from another part of the Island, which made us Shy to trust an indifferent Person, but as we have Since received a written Message, Shall take pleasure to Send you as often as Opportunity offers what we Shall be able to ⟨collect⟩ from Time to Time, ⟨but⟩ That we may not be ⟨illegible⟩ please to Answer it by a Paper written The Same Manner, ac⟨k⟩nowledging the Receipt of ours & giving us th⟨ose⟩ Particulars what you would desire principally to be informed of. Let ⟨us⟩ know whom you ⟨entrust⟩ & always Sign your⟨self⟩ C.D. & I shall Subscribe myself Your’s ever to

Amicus Reipublicae


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Elias Dayton, 17 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 17th May 1780

I have recd yours of the 15th. I shall be glad to be informed whether the Fleet mentioned by you, as having sailed on thursday last, consisted

of armed ships or Merchant men, and if the former, their number—force, and destination. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 17 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Hay, Udny

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 17th May 1780

Be pleased to make immediate enquiry what number of the platform plank which were cut last fall and brought down the River still remain at Fishkill or West point, and give directions to Colo. Lewis to have the number made up to 1000 of the proper length and thickness—General Schuyler thinks his Mills at Saratogha can furnish the deficiency—As this may be a matter of importance, request Colo. Lewis to have the plank cut and sent down as speedily as possible. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Lafayette, 17 May 1780 [letters not found]
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

  Letters not found: from Major General Lafayette, 17 May 1780. On 20 May, GW wrote Lafayette: “I had written the inclosed my Dear Marquis previous to the receipt of yours of the 17th which arrived late yesterday. The dispatches accompanying them for the Eastward were sent off before day this morning.” For an indication of the contents of Lafayette’s letters, see GW to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 19 May.


Title: To George Washington from Solomon Southwick, 17 May 1780
From: Southwick, Solomon
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Providence May 17th 1780

As I understand the Army under your Excellency’s immediate Command is considerably pinch’d for Provisions, I take the Liberty to inform your Excellency, That we have near Six Hundred Barrels of Salt Beef in this State, about one Half of which has been repack’d & put in good order within 10 Days & the Whole will be finished in a few Days more; that as we have but very few Troops here, & this State is to procure about a Thousand Barrels of Beef this Season, on Account of the Continent, I shou’d think 400 Barrels of the Beef now on Hand might be spared & be shipp’d by Water to the nearest Port to the Main Army, which wou’d expedite the Transportation & save much Expence. A few Hogsheads of dry Fish might also be spared from this Department if

wanted at the Westward; of all other Articles we are short not having had more than 7 or 8 Barrels of Flour for several Months, having lived principally on Indian Bread.
Any Orders from your Excellency respecting the Foregoing, will be most cheerfully obey’d by, Sir, Your Excellency’s most respectful, hume Servt

Soln Southwick, D.C.G.I.


Title: General Orders, 18 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters Morristown Thursday May 18th 1780
Parole Carolina  Countersigns Don Dee

[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:] Colonel Johnstone[,] Lieut. Colonel Commandant Hubly[,] Brigade Major 2d Pennsa Brigade
At a Division General Court martial May 10. 1780; whereof Lieutenant Colonel Commandant Weissenfells was president Matthew Bell soldier in the 2nd and James Hanly soldier in the 4th New York regiments were tried for attempting to desert to the Enemy with their Arms and Accoutrements; also Lancaster Lighthall soldier in the 3d New York regiment was tried at the same Court for attempting to desert to the Enemy with the Arms and accoutrements of another soldier.
The Court are of opinion that the Charges against Bell and Hanly are fully supported and that they are guilty of a Breach of Article 1st Section 6th of the Articles of War.
They are further of opinion that the charge against Lighthall is supported except his taking the Arms and Accoutrements of another Soldier and that he is Guilty of a Breach of the Article and Section aforesaid and do sentence them all Three to be shot to death, upwards of two thirds of the Court agreeing thereto.
His Excellency the Commander in Chief approves the sentence.


Title: To George Washington from Ephraim Blaine, 18 May 1780
From: Blaine, Ephraim
To: Washington, George

Please Your Excellency,
Morris Town 18th May 1780

One Hundred and forty barrels of the salt Provisions mentioned in my last return has been delivered at the Magazine the residue I look for daily which is all I have any expectations of, and when that is used, the supplies of meat will depend on Colo. Champion I gave him very pointed instructions in February last and has wrote him Frequently since, to arrange Matters in such a manner as wou’d afford us an Ample supply of meat from the 10th of this month till the middle of July and furnished him with the principl⟨e⟩ part of what money I obtain’d from Congress for that purpose—I have had no late information from him of his success or what number of Cattle he can forward this and the next month. (but hope they will be considerable) every means in my power shall be adopted to Keep up the supplies of meat but doubt its Imposible; shou’d Colo. Champion fail of my expectations, I shall try to procure some beef Cattle below Philadelphia, which shall be forwarded with all posible dispatch, remain with due respect, Your Excellencies Most Obdt and Most Hble Servant

Eph. Blaine C.G.P.

N.B. Colo. Stewart and Mr Dunham will give you the necessary information respecting supplies in my Absence.


Title: To George Washington from James Caldwell, 18 May 1780
From: Caldwell, James
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Connecticut Farms [N.J.] May 18 1780.

At the request of Capt. McLeod I transmit you his Petition for a pass to New York. And have only to say with respect to it, That it is in my opinion wrong that such men shd be alowed to live on the lines—But since he is indulged in this, by the civil Department, I would wish your excellency to grant his request. By going over he can do us no harm—and by being denied the indulgence he may be so sowered as to do us some mischief if the enemy shoud in a future day come into the Town.
I have this Day given the Engineer & Officers an opportunity of viewing the ground near Eliza. Town on which the Troops may encamp with conveniency. The Engineer will give your excellency an Acct of their conveniencys & inconveniencys respectively. It woud be vanity in me to obtrude my opinion. But I will suggest in favour of their encamping in the Town upon Kellys Hill, what probably has not been observed by the others, That we can probably procure the Teams which are imployed by Day to bring the supplies, to lodge in the Camp at Night, without any considerable addition to the expence or diminishing of their duty, that in case of an Alarm the Tents & Baggage may be removed. This may answer a better end than a fortification—at less expence & fatague, & perhaps less risk. I cant say I fear a surprise. With sincerest esteem, Your excellencys most obedt and very huml. sert

James Caldwell


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel John Connolly, 18 May 1780
From: Connolly, John
To: Washington, George

sir,
Germantown [Pa.] May 18th 1780.

Having applied to the Board of War for the necessary Passport to forward my son to New York, I have been informed that it is a favour, for the granting of which I am solely refered to your Excellency—The unhappy situation in which I have been so long involved, has proved greatly prejudical to Him in point of education; & under my present more tolerable Circumstances his opportunity of improvement is little more favorable than formerly, & at an expence of an exorbitant Nature—Your Excellency will very greatly oblige me by giving the necessary Orders for complying with my request, which will not only confer

a very particular Obligation upon me, but lay the young Gentleman referred to under a sense of the same, which I flatter myself, He may at some future period be able to acknowledge—I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s most Obedt & most humble servant

Jno: Connolly


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 18 May 1780
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Trenton 18 May 1780

Mr Bland has frequently applied to me for a Pass to go to New York, in order there to embark for England. I have as often denied his request from a Resolution never to grant any Favour of this Government to those who have made it the Theatre of their machinations against us. I have received very unfavourable Impressions of Mr Bland from some of our officers as secretely acting against us, while he openly treated them with great apparent Friendship and Cordiality. He denies the Accusation; & I am not at present in a way to hunt for Evidence, but my Suspicions are not removed. He thinks your Excellency has reason to entertain a more favourable Opinion of his political character, & that he could obtain your Permission, were it not that you may probably refuse him out of meer delicacy to me. upon this I have assured him that if your Excellency has reason to entertain such Sentiments of him as he supposes, I would at his importunity, acquaint you that I could wish my Suspicions to his disadvantage, may not be the means of preventing the Success of his Application to your Excellency, if, abstracted from this, you should think proper to give him a pass. I have the honour to be with great Esteem & Regard Dear Sir Your Excellencys most humble & most obedient Servant

Wil: Livingston


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 18 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

My Lord
Head Quarters Morris Town 18th May 1780

Colonel Craig of the 3d Penna Regiment has laid before me the Copy of a division Court Martial held by your order upon Joseph English for deserting from that Regiment and inlisting in Colo. Livingstons. I observe that your Lordship has disapproved the sentence (which found the prisoner guilty and ordered him to return to his former Regiment) upon a presumption that no Soldiers were inlisted for the War in 1776. By this I imagine your Lordship to have been unacquainted with a circumstance upon which the inlistments of a great number of the pennsylvania troops depends. When the Army was new modelled in Sepr 1776, Commissioners were sent from Pennsylvania to Ticonderoga to arrange their Officers upon the new establishment, and to re-engage as many of the Soldiers as possible for the War, which was the term then fixed upon, tho’ it was afterwards unhappily altered. English, Colo. Craig informs me, was among those reinlisted, but being left sick at Albany, as appears from old Muster Rolls, he inlisted into Livingstons.
From the foregoing state, your Lordship will, I am convinced, clearly see the propriety and necessity of ordering the Man to join Colo. Craig. I am with great Regard Your Lordships Most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 19 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters Morristown Friday May 19th 1780.
Parole Delaware  Countersigns S.H.

[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:] Colonel Courtlandt[,] Lieutenant Colonel Willet[,] Brigade Major Hand’s Brigade
[Officers] To Command the Manœuvring Battalions Tomorrow[:] Colonels Angell and Stewart[,] Lieutenant Colonel Huntington[,] Major Torrey
The Manœuvring Battalions to be formed tomorrow morning Six o clock precisely; Brigade Major of the second Pennsylvania Brigade to attend the formation &ca.
Clinton’s and Hand’s Brigades each give an Adjutant and Colors as before.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Carleton, 19 May 1780
From: Carleton, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [Philadelphia] May 19th 1780

I have the Honor to transmit your Excellency, Copy of a petition, addressed to the Council of pensylvania from a number of Inhabitants of Northumberland County respecting the Conduct of Lt Colonel Weltner, together with a Letter from president Reid on the Subject. I have the Honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellencys Most obedt Hble Servt

Joseph Carleton Secy p.t.


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 19–20 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Sir
Head Qrs [Morristown] May 19[–20] 1780

I take the liberty of transmitting to your Excellency’s care the inclosed Letters for Governor Rutledge. They are both—on the same subject—and also contain Letters for Major General Lincoln. As they respect matters of an interesting nature, I wish them to go by Two Conveyances that there may be the greater chance of their getting to the Governor’s hands—and the sooner this could take place the better. If there is no Express going or returning from philadelphia to South Carolina—at this time—it may perhaps be best to send one of the dispatches by the first post. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect & esteem Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt st

Go: Washington

20th

I am this morning informed from Elizabeth Town that on the 16 & 17 the 44th Reg⟨iment⟩ and some other Troops embarked at New York with several pieces of Heavy Cannon. The informat⟨ion⟩ says they were to sail yesterday under convoy of the pearl & Thames Frig⟨ates⟩ and Two Sloops of 20 Guns—and that Hallifax & Cape Breton are their destination. The account add⟨s⟩ that they have a good many Horse on board—which if true would seem to be opposed to their going to these places.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Lafayette, 19 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

Hd Qrs Morris Town 19th May 1780

I impatiently wait my Dear Marquis to know the result of the arrangements you were to make with Congress. The time slides away so fast and we have so little before us, that every moment is infinitely precious and ought to be improved.
We talked of a Proclamation to the Canadians—If it is not already done, I think it ought not to be delayed. It should be in your own name, and have as much as possible an air of probability. Perhaps it will be more plausible to have two different kinds struck—one intimating to them that the arrival of a french fleet and army in the River St Laurance to cooperate with these states is to be expected by the way of Rhode Island where they are to touch for to answr some importt purposes. and dwelling on the happy opportunity it will afford them to renew their ancient friendship with France, by joining the allied arms and assisting to make Canada a part of the American confederation, with all the privileges and advantages enjoyed by the other members; cautioning them by no means to aid the enemy in their preparation for defending the Province. The other proclamation should be drawn on the supposition of the fleet and army being already arrived—and should contain an animating invitation to arrange themselves under the allied banners. In both proclamations you should hold yourself up as a French and American officer charged both by the King of France and by Congress with a commission to address them upon the occasion. It may indeed be well to throw out an idea that you are to command the corps of

American troops destined to cooperate with the French armament. The more mystery in this business the better. It will get out and it ought to seem to be against our intention.
In a memorandum you left with Col. Hamilton, you mention pilots to be sent to Cape Henry to conduct the fleet to Rhode Island. This does not appear to me necessary; as there will be pilots ready at Rhode Island to take the fleet into the Harbour and every Navigator can answer the purpose to the entrance of the Port—If however you think it will be expected that pilots be ready at Cape Henry, you can apply to the Marine Committee who can easily provide them. I am with all Affection & sincerity—yrs truly.

I forgot to observe that something might be addressed to the savages—I mentioned to you when here the inserting a paragraph in the papers—somewhat to this effect. “We have it from good authority that the Marquis De La Fayette brings the important and agreeable intelligence of a very considerable naval and land force, intended to be sent by his Most Christian Majesty to the succour of these states—and that the Campaign will open with a combined operation against New York. This there is every reason to hope with proper exertions on our part will put a happy period to the war; nor can there be any room to doubt, that the glorious opportunity will be effectually improved—This instance of the friendship of our ally is a new claim to the lasting affection and gratitude of this Country”—I think such a paragraph will be useful as the people will be roused by it, while the enemy by the address to the Canadians & other demonstrations pointing another way may be distracted by attending to different objects & weakened—You will judge by appearances how far it may be agreeable to Congress.


Title: From George Washington to Captain La Touche-Tréville, 19 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Touche-Tréville, Louis-René-Madeleine Le Vassor, comte de

Sir,
Morris Town May 19t[h] 1780

I have the pleasure to transmit you a packet which was inclosed to me by the Marquis De La Fayette. He informs me that it contains permission for you to make a short cruise, The Marquis has inspired me with an opinion of your character from several details with which he has favoured me that gives me the fullest assurance you will do every thing in your power to merit success and I shall be particularly happy to hear you have met with it. The interest with which He speaks of you upon all occasions is an additional motive to those sentiments of perfect consideration with which I have the honor to be Sir Your most Obedient & humble servant.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 19 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 19th May 1780

I recd yours of the 17th by Capt. Rochefontaine. Was I not so taken up with the Committee of Congress now in Camp, I would ride down myself and endeavour to fix upon the most advantageous place and manner for your Brigade to encamp, so as to answer the purpose for which it was sent down and at the same time pay a proper attention to its security—I have therefore instructed Lord Stirling to go down in the Morning with the Engineer and upon a full view and consideration of

matters to take such a position as shall, under all circumstances, appear most eligible.
I would have you inquire minutely whether any laws of the State, at present in force, provide for the punishment of persons taken for seducing soldiers to desert or conveying them to the enemy—If there are none such, I think you may safely bring the person you have in Custody, to trial as a spy found near your Camp. I am fully of opinion that much of our desertion is occasioned by Villains of this kind influencing our Soldiery. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from John Mitchell, 19 May 1780
From: Mitchell, John
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Philada 19 May 1780

Your Excellencys favour of the 14th Instant, was handed me by Mr Washington, to whom I gave every assistance in my power, but was extreamly sorry I was out of Town on his Arrival.
Mr Bringhurst notwithstanding his repeated assurances to have the Chariot ready by the time apointed & agreed on, has disapointed me. I offered him any part of the money whenever he pleased to call for it—not having had an Answer to my last Letter to Your Excellency, respecting the Colour, Gilding, springs Brass Boxes &c., has been some excuse for Mr Bringhurst, but I was with him frequently, & told him not to waite for any thing, as I wou’d give the Necessary orders to the Painter—I realy expect he will be very Deligent & punctual now—If you think proper to have any Alteration made in the Chariot, it shall be done I wou’d be very glad to have your Opinion & directions respecting the Colour, Brass Boxes, Harness & Painting, if it comes to hand by Wednesday Evening it will be time enough—I expect the Chariot will be finished in three Weeks—have received £210.0.6 from Mr Washington, which shall be paid to Mr Bringhurst so soon as he wants any part, but it will not be prudent to pay him above half before the Chariot is finished.

Mrs Mitchell Joins me in most respectfull Complimts to Mrs Washington—I have the Honor to be with great respect Your Excellencys Most obedt & most hume st

Jno. Mitchell


Title: To George Washington from Captain Abijah Savage, 19 May 1780
From: Savage, Abijah
To: Washington, George

Quarters MorristownMay 19 1780
May It Please your Excellency

I Beg Leave to acquaint your Excellency of my Services & Present Situation—I Entered in the Service of my Country in May 1775 as a Lieutenant in which Capacity I Served untill the 31 of December 75 at which time I was Taken a Prisoner at Quebec I Remaind a Prisoner more than twelve months Soon after my Exchange I was appointed a Captain in Colo. Henry Sherburnes Regit one of the additional Sixteen Battalions in which Capacity I have Served to the Present Time the Regiment to which I Belongd Being Reduced while I was on Command at Paramas—I am now Left Destitute of any Command: the men that I once Commanded are Incorporated with other Regiments I Find by the general order for that purpose there was no Mention made of any Commissond officers where they are to go, or what is to be Done for them—I have Receivd but very Little of any thing more than the Nominal Sum of my wages in Continental Currency for my Five years Service—the Calamities of war the Low value of the money, the great Expence which my Station in the army has led me to, together with the Expences of a Large Family at Home has Reduced me to poverty & want the Situation of my Family at home Demands my Immediate attention for ther Relief—my own Necessity for Cloathing is Such that I Cannot Stay here in my present Situation with Decency.
I have no Dislike to the Service but am under the Necessity of Desiring your Excellencys Permission to Retire home to Relieve the Distresses of my family which the Tender feelings of Humanity Cannot Endure to hear Repeated.

If there is, or Shall hereafter be any Prov[i]sion made for the Officers of those Regiments which are or Shall be Reduced I Could wish to Receive all the Priviledges that are or may be granted to them.
But if there is not, nor Cannot be any Compensation Made to those Officers who are put out of Service by the Present arrangement nor permited to go on furlough—I Shall be under the Disagreeable Necessity of asking for a Discharge. I am with Respect your Excellencys Most obedient & Most Humble Servant

Abijah Savage


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

My Lord
Head Quarters Morris Town May 19th 1780.

You will perceive by the inclosed letter from General Maxwell that there is a great diversity of opinions respecting the proper position for the Brigade—I would ride down myself and view the different grounds,

but I am engaged in business with the Committee of Congress—I would therefore wish your Lordship to go down again in the morning with captain Rochefontaine and ultimately determine the matter—You are to keep two things in view—a position that will cover the Country, for which the Brigade was sent down—and a proper regard to its own security either from surprise or from an open attack. The people seem so exceedingly desirous of having it near Elizabeth Town, that I would gratify them as far as prudence would possibly admit—They cannot remain in the neighbourhood of the Town, without works of some kind, and yet from the uncertainty of their stay it does not appear worth while to throw up any of much cost or labor, or to destroy private property for the sake of a particular position—This must be the case, if the one generally approved, is fixed upon. It is an Orchard of Mr De Harts. Something should be determined speedily, for the Troops in their present unsetled situation are neither safe, nor answering the purposes for which they were sent down. I am Your Lordships Most Obet Servant

Go: Washington

P.s. I have instructed Genl Maxwell on the subject of the person taken carrying Deserters from us to the Enemy.


Title: To George Washington from William Turnbull, 19 May 1780
From: Turnbull, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philada May 19th 1780

At the request of my Brother who has lately come from the Southard, I have to acquaint Your Excellency That the pipe of Madeira Wine which Robert Smith Esquire of Edenton advised was in his possession has been particularly taken care of by my Brother and is stored in Baltimore where it will be deliverd to Your Excellen[c]ys order by Mr James Jaffary Merchant there.
If I can afford any assistance to have Your Excellencys directions complied with respecting the same please to command Sir Your most hu: servt

Wm Turnbull


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Goose Van Schaick, 19 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Van Schaick, Goose

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 19th May 1780

I have applied to His Excellency Governor Clinton to releive your Regiment at Fort Schuyler, by a sufficient number of the 800 Militia to be taken into Continental pay for the defence of the Frontier, but as the post is very important, I have proposed that Colo. Van Dyck shall remain in command, retaining one or two Commissioned and a few good non Commissioned Officers to assist him—Captain Brown, with his Company of Artillery, will remain in Garrison—Should the Governor accede to this proposal, you will take proper measures to draw your Regiment down to Albany as soon as the releif has arrived at the Fort—When it reaches Albany, be pleased to give me information and I will direct its further Route. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. The Regiment may come immediately down as far as the Highlands.


Title: From George Washington to Lund Washington, 19 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Lund

Dear Lund,
Morris-Town May 19th 1780.

Your Letter of the 10th came to hand last night. I have not yet had leizure to look into the Papers relative to Mercers business; & when I shall, is more than I am, at this moment, able to say, as new scenes are beginning to unfold themselves, which will by no means lessen my

present trouble, or attention—You ask how I am to be rewarded for all this? There is one reward that nothing can deprive me of, & that is, the consciousness of having done My duty with the strictest rectitude, and most scrupulous exactness—and the certain knowledge, that if we should—ultimately—fail in the present contest, it is not owing to the want of exertion in me, or the application of every means that Congress and the United States, or the States individually, have put into my hands.
[… Provi]dence—to whom we are infinitely more indebted than we are to our own wisdom—or our own exertions—has always displayed its power & goodness, when clouds and thick darkness seemed ready to overwhelm us—The hour is now come when we stand much in need of another manifestation of its bounty however little we deserve it—In my next I may be more particular at present I shall only add that with much truth & sincerity I am Yr Affe. friend

Go: Washington

Mrs Washington desires to be remembered to you & your⟨s⟩.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Lafayette, 20 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

Morris Town 20th May 1780

I had written the inclosed my Dear Marquis previous to the receipt of yours of the 17th which arrived late yesterday. The dispatches accompanying them for the Eastward were sent off before day this morning—Mr Hamilton wrote to Capt. De La Touche on the points you mention. I also wrote to him and to Governor Trumbull.
The measures that have been taken are all evidently proper—The communication to Mr Holker was necessary and can be attended with no inco[n]venience. I could wish that Gentleman might accompany you to camp. His knowlege of the country and intelligence in business, will enable him to be useful in the arrangements we shall have to make.
General Greene will give all the aid in his power in the article of waggons—or in anything else in which it may be wanted & his means extend.
I hope the sending the Committee will not be delayed a moment.

The members appointed to draw the instructions are very good men—I shall be sorry however if General Schuyler is not of the Committee.
The sooner The Chevalier can make it convenient to honor us with a visit the better. His advice and concurrence on some points may be very important—Will you present my respects to him? The enemy are embarking more Troops at N.Y. and heavy Cannon, for, as it is said, Hallifax and Cape Breton.
I send a letter with this to halt Lees corps.
You will find that I have anticipated that part of your letter which relates to pilots for Cape Henry. You will act in this matter as you think proper.
As the post is just setting out I have not time to enlarge.
Finish your business as soon as you can and hasten home, for so I would always have you to consider Head Quarters and my house.
Mrs Washington sends you her affectionate compliments—the Gentlemen of the family theirs.
Believe me on all occasions with the greatest tenderness and sincerity Yr friend & servant.


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

Head Quarters Morristown Sunday May 21st 1780
Parole Petersburgh  Countersigns O.G.

[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:] Colonel Jackson[,] Lieutenant Colonel Sill[,] Brigade Major Stark’s Brigade
[Officers] For Manœuvring Tomorrow[:] Colonel Craig[,] Lieutenant Colonel Commandant Weissenfels[,] Major C. Stewart and Talbot[,] Adjutants 1 Pennsa & Stark’s brigades
Colours as before; The Battalions to be form’d at Six o clock tomorrow A.M. Major Church to attend the Formation.
The Pennsylvania and Connecticutt divisions and Hand’s Brigade give the Morristown Guards and Fatigue the ensuing week.
A General Court martial of the Line to sit tomorrow morning nine o clock at a hut lately occupied by Major Winder for the Trial of such Persons as shall come before them: Colonel Gansevoort to Preside: Lieutenant Colonel Willet, and Major James Moore a Captain and one Sub[altern], from the Pennsylvania division; Two Captains and a Sub. from the Connecticut division; a Captain and a Sub. from Hand’s brigade; one Captain and one Sub., from Clinton’s; and one Sub. from Stark’s to attend as Members.
To prevent in future an inconvenience and irregularity which the General is informed have frequently happened of late in sending part of the Morristown Guard to their Brigades who did not come properly supplied with provision in order to obtain Certificates from their Commissaries of their having provision due them that they might be furnish’d in Town; The Brigade Majors are previous to their men’s going to the Grand parade to examine the State of their Provision and if they are not supplied they are to send the necessary Certificates from the Brigade Commissaries by the Adjutants of the Day; who will deliver them to the Officers of the Guards in which the Men are and which will be a Voucher for the Commissary in Town for charging the respective brigades with the Issues made in Consequence.


Title: To George Washington from Ephraim Blaine, 21 May 1780
From: Blaine, Ephraim
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philada 21st May 1780

The Executive and Legis[la]tive authority of this state are dissatisfied with my representation to your Excellency, and insist that the State cannot produce any beef of consequence, I have assured them it can and pointed out the places where—upon which they have permited me to purchase from those Persons in the best manner I can, and given me Orders upon the County Treasurers for money to pay the same—I shall be able to send off a drove of about fifty Cattle next tuesday Morning from the Meadows, and hope in a few days to make up One or two more—I have fallen upon a plan last night—which will produce three Hundred and odd barrels of salt Provisions, this I shall be able to forward by Wedensday next—One Hundred Barrels of Pork was forwarded yesterday for Trenton, and I expect One Hundred more from Maspillion Landing in a day or two.
The assembly have repealed the Law for which all State Officers were to receive their saleries in wheat, and have made another to receive their pay in the new Money, and to take it in pay for taxes, the Merchants have had a meeting and have agreed to take it as gold and Silver, this Act of the assembly and the Agrement of the Merchants

will certainly give it a Currency, and enable the State Contracters to procure Considerable Quantities of Provisions—your Excellency may be assured of my utmost Exertions to feed the army and Studying every means to procure supplies. I have the honor to be verry respectfully Your Excellencies Most Obdt and Most Hble Servt

Eph: Blaine C.G.P.


Title: To George Washington from James Duane, 21 May 1780
From: Duane, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia 21st May 1780 On publick Service

The enclosed Letter was delivered me after a very importunate personal Sollicitation. I have a very great Respect for Col. Shea, and a warm desire to serve every officer of distinguished Merit; At the same

time that I am anxious to do no Violence to the Arrangements of the Army which have been brought into order with such infinite pains and under numberless Embarrasments. Under these Circumstances I promised Col. Shea to learn from your Excellency whether the promotion asked for Capt. McClean woud not be improper or irregular, and to give his Application Support if it coud be done consistent with the order of the Army; If your Excellency sees no Objection I shoud be glad of your Opinion accordingly. I have the Honour to be—with the utmost Regard—Sir your Excellency’s most Obedient humble Servant

Jas Duane


Title: From George Washington to Philip Schuyler, 21 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

My dear Sir,
Morris Town May 21st 1780

  Your opinion on the foregoing quæries, and on such other matters as relates to the business which is unfolding and wch requires the closest attention under our circumstances will be thankfully received by Yr Affecte Servt

Go: W——n


Title: General Orders, 22 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters Morristown Monday May 22d 1780
Parole Denmark  Countersigns Gor, Gaul.

[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:] Colonel Angell[,] Lieutenant Colonel Huntington[,] Brigade Major 1st Connecticut


Title: To George Washington from William Maltby Betts, 22 May 1780
From: Betts, William Maltby
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fish Kill [N.Y.] May 22d 1780

In Colonel Hay’s absence I am Honord with your Excellency’s Letters of the 15th & 17th and Colo. Tilghmans of the 19th enclosing one for Governor Clinton, which has beene forwarded as directed.
Have wrote Colonel Lewis to forward the Plank, Tar, and Oakum, am of opinion he is not posses’d of the latter article, but have taken measures to obtain a small supply ’till a quantity arrives which I expect from Morristown, and which the bearer is sent to hasten on.
The number of Plank receiv’d from Colo. Lewis in the course of the Spring is very inconsiderable indeed we have some on the Confines of the River which I am now forwarding to the Fort.
Every possible exertion is making to put the Boats in repair, but fear the number of men we now have are inadequate to the extent of the business and will not be able to accomplish it so soon as your Excellency wishes. In behalf of Colo. Hay, I have the Honor to be with the utmost Respect Your Excellency’s Mo. Obed. & Mo. Hble Servt

Wm M. Betts


Title: To George Washington from Captain Bartholomew von Heer, 22 May 1780
From: Heer, Bartholomew von
To: Washington, George

The Commander in Chief:
Reading [Pa.] May 22d 1780.

Your Excellency’s Order I have recd the 20. inst: by a Dragoon of my Troop, who has accidentally passed the House of Qr Mr Mitchell in philada the Day before 6 o’Clock at no on, Sent in particular Bussiness for the Troop to philadelphia, he charged him with a Letter to me sent by your Excellency’s Authority; It has surprised me very much, That the Letter dated the 11th has not arrived Sooner to my post.
Likewise the Letter dated the 30. of march pr., what has ordered me with my Troop to Burlington, have not received untill the 21th of April from Board of War, where I have opened the Letter & intended to return to the station to move my Troop immediately agreable to your Excellency’s Order.
But Board of War contremanded it, as Major Lee hath not march from there; I Shou’d therefore wait for further Orders, upon which Letter I Sent an Answer immediately to your Excellency; But now Seeing your Excellency’s Letter addressed to Burlington or philadelphia makes me believe, my Letter has not been favoured forward by Board of War, hoping, your Excellency will not take it as a neglect of mine.
As your Excellency’s mentioned, I Shou’d march forward with my Troop, or Sent an Officer with all the Horses fit for Service, have therefore chosen out all the Best Horses & Men of the Troop under the Command of Lieut. Mytinger & strubing as speedy as it has laid in my power.
Likewise I have flattered the Men so much as possible to take patience, as they have not received payment from the first of December till to this Day; But I expect having a complete Confidence of all my Men, That they will behave & do their Duty to all, they ordered to.
I have made Application to Board of War & Congress for Cloaks to the Men; and Cloathing for myself & the Officers agreable to their Resolve But nothing has followed till to this Day, & the Men are in great Want of the Cloaks, as they have no Blankets.
Therefore I wou’d wish, your Excellency wou’d be plaised to grantt an Order to the officers for the Cloaks either to the Board of War, or to the Cloathier Genrl, as it is an Articul, that the Men cannot do without.

I Shall have the Honour to wait upon your Excellency’s Orders with the remainder of the Troop till to the first of June, whene they will be complete with the Necessaries, they are in Want of. I remain with the greatest Respect Your Excellency Most humble & obediant Servant

Barthw von Heer Capt. Light Dragoons

p.s. I have inclosed a Return of the Troop, what present at Camp & remained in Reading.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Robert Howe, 22 May 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Highlands [N.Y.] 22d May 1780

your Excellency’s Letter of the 16th Instant arrived last Night—Col. Gouvion has been told of your Desire to have him up—He wishes me to inform you that the Want of Forage having rendered it necessary to send his Horses at some Distance from Camp, he can not set out until they are recall’d, which he shall do without Delay, & upon their Arrival will set off immediately. I wish he could have finished the Works at Stoney & Verplank’s Points, now within a few Days of being done—Major Mournon is not able to go upon the Duty your Excellency points out at present—yesterday being the first Day he has been out, & even that against the Direction of the Doctor. I shall inquire of him if there is no Officer or Person he can employ upon this Occasion that will answer the End propos’d, & if there is they shall be sent. I shall write to the Officer of Militia upon the Sound, but from the Accounts I have had their Numbers are too small to give Room to expect much Service in the Fascine & Gabion Way from them.

One of my Spies writes me that two British, two of Anspach’s & two Hessian Regiments are within New York, Worme with his Corps at Mrs Day’s at Harlem—two Companies of Volunteers under the Command of some Person by the Name of Benson, the other under Talman, & one under the Command of Mathews call’d the Town Company with the Guards are at the out Lines near King’s Bridge—That it was mention’d about Town that Genl Clinton was raising the Siege of Charles Town & was momentarily expected at York, that Discontent was visible in every Countenance, that several Regiments were under marching Orders, said to be going to Quebeck in Consequence of an Express sent from thence, & that the Transports were ready & only waited for a Convoy, not more than one Ship of the Line & one Guard Ship being in the Harbour—He doubts however that something else is in their Head than going to Quebeck, as great Preparations are making—That Money was much wanted, & great Arrears of Pay due to the Army, tho’ the Bills of Army Agents went a begging everywhere, tho’ the large Discount was offered of receiving ninety Pounds for a Hundred drawn payable in England at Sight—Pretty similar Accounts are also given me by a Mr Prevoust who escaped from York two or three Days since, & who seems to be an intelligent sensible Man & who bears a good Character. Another Agent whose Letter I have this Moment tells me that great Preparations are making for some Movement, but thinks against some Town upon the Sound, or further Eastward, but speaks this only as his own Conjecture—He adds that two new Works were erecting, one west of Bunker’s Hill, the other next the east River on Delancey’s Farm, & that the Arrival of the French Fleet was expected & dreaded. The Flour mention’d by your Excellency in a former Letter is not yet arrived—all further Supplies of that Article in any but trifling Quantities is at an End in this Quarter, & as what we have on Hand is not much, it calls for the Exertion of the Commissary Genl to obtain some from the South’ard, & that without Delay.
How happy should I be Sir, to diminish your Perplexities, & how much otherwise does it make me that it is not in my Power. I am Dear Sir With the greatest Respect your Excellency’s most obedient and very Humble Servant

Robert Howe


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

Head Quarters Morristown Tuesday May 23d 1780
Parole Palermo  Countersigns P. B.

[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:] Colonel Meigs[,] Lieutenant Colonel Murray. Brigade Major 2d Connecticut
For manœuvring Lieutenant Colonels Commandant Butler and Hubley; Majors Trescott and Parr; Two Adjutants from the Connecticut Division; Colours as before; Brigade Major from Clinton’s brigade to attend the Formation of the Manœuvring Battalions Tomorrow Morning Six o’Clock.