Title: General Orders, 2 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Sunday May 2nd 1779
Parole Ratisbon—C. Signs Roer Rye.

At a division General Court-Martial held at Reading April 1779—by order of Major General Putnam, Colonel Bradley President— Lieutenant Colonel Holdridge was tried for “Taking the Schooner (called General Howe) from Captn Caleb Laurence left in his care by Thomas Miner and Benjamin Pearce who brought her from the enemy laden with sundry articles, and holding the abovesaid Miner and Pearce under guard ’till they would consent to sell their shares of the above-Schooner at the price offered, and in consequence thereof converting some part of the abovesaid Schooner and goods to his own profit.”
The court having considered the evidence are of opinion that the taking and removing the Schooner from Byram river was an act of prudence and good conduct in Lieutenant Colonel Holdridge, whoever the claimers or right owners were—The other matters alledged the court are of opinion they are not proved and supported, and thereupon give judgment that Lieutt Colo. Holdridge is not guilty & that he be acquitted from the charge.
Lieutenant Colonel Holdridge is released from his arrest. At the same Court Serjeant Gray of Colonel Bradley’s regiment was tried for, “Deserting to the enemy and inlisting with them, stealing a dragoon horse & carrying him to the enemy.” The Court taking into consideration the crime of which Gray the Prisoner is guilty do sentence him to be shot to death; but at the same time considering his excuse of being destitute of the use of his reason at the time he committed the crime, and that he took the first opportunity to return, and from the information of some respectable inhabitants of his acquaintance that the prisoner has been subject to turns of delirium, or insanity of mind, & also the offer of his brother to indemnify the public for the loss of the Light Dragoon horse; The Court do unanimously recommend the Prisoner Gray to the General for his Mercy and Pardon as being more particularly at this time consonant with the pardon offered by His Excellency General Washington to deserters.
His Excellency the Commander in Chief is pleased to remit the sentence of death against Gray and order his release from confinement.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 2 May 1779
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Redding [Conn.] 2nd of May 1779

Your Letter of the 28th Ulo directed to the Commanding Officer here came safe to me about four o’Clock this Morning. according to your Excellency’s former Orders of the 23d I had given Orders to General Huntington’s Brigade (whose Tour of Duty it is mine having perform’d the last) to hold themselves in Readiness to march on the Shortest Notice and on receiving Inteligence of the Embarkation of some Regiments of the Enemy I had orderd them to march to Peekskill to reinforce General McDougal. on Receit of your last I was much at a Loss whither to countermand the March of this Brigade and order mine to Peekskill; but considering it will necessarily take up more Time before mine can march, all the Guards being supplied from my Brigade and Genl Huntington’s having been held collected for marching some Days: and no new Object appearing in which the Troops are to be employed And securing the Posts in the Highlands being an Object of Importance and which may require the most speedy arrival of Troops for their Support, I tho’t I could not better comply with the Spirit of your Excellency’s last Order than by continuing the Order I had given to the 2nd Brigade—But lest I should contravene your Excellency’s Intentions in the march of this Brigade I have orderd mine to hold themselves in Readiness to march on the Shortest Notice, and shall this Day call in all my out Guards that Nothing shall on our part be the occasion of any Delay in executing your Excellency’s Commands.
I must remind your Excellency that we are not supplied with Tents and Camp Utensils, nor have we receivd any Order for Arms and Accoutrements in which we are deficient. One of our Field Peices is Split which I have order’d to Springfield where I hope we shall be supplied with another. Our Horses are sent for, but not arriv’d; but I hope they will be in very soon. The Portmanteaus with which the Officers were to be furnishd are not come, nor can I find any are provided here that it will be difficult for them to contract their Baggage to so small a Compass as was expected.
The Enemy continue fortifying Laurel Hill, East of Fort Washington, and ’tis said when this is compleated they design to evacuate the Posts on this Side King’s Bridge; this has the Appearance of a defensive System in New York.
I have transmitted a Number of Commissions of Officers who have resignd and wish their Discharges at the several Dates minuted on the Back of the Commissions. the Report of the Court martial in the Case of Colonel Holdridge and of Serjt Gray I have before transmitted and would request your Excellencys Answer. I am with the highest Esteem & Regard yr Excellency’s Obedt Servt
Saml H. Parsons


Title: General Orders, 3 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Monday May 3rd 1779.
Parole Flensburgh—C. Signs Fleury—Franker.

The Commander in Chief is happy to inform the Army at the request of His Excellency the Minister Plenipotentiary of His Most Christian Majesty that the Military Exhibitions to which he was witness as well as the cordial testimonies of respect paid him, have afforded him the highest satisfaction and acquired his warmest approbation—The General cannot but add his Congratulations upon this occasion—So honorable a mark of Applause is highly flattering and will, no doubt, prove a new incitement to a spirit of emulation: He observed with peculiar Pleasure the zeal which appeared in the officers to testify their respect to the Minister of a Prince who has given so decisive and magnanimous proofs of his friendship to these States and to a Gentleman who in the execution of the trust reposed in him has signalized his good offices to promote their interest.
The Commander in Chief is pleased to accept of and approve the following report of the Board of General Officers upon certain disputes of rank between several field officers in the Pennsylvania line (viz.)—“That they are fully convinced that the arrangement made at White-Plains by the Committee of Congress assisted by Brigadier General Wayne was just and that they can see no reason why it should be altered; and they are of opinion that the arrangement ought to stand as then made (viz.)—Majors Mentzges Murray and Nichols—They are also of opinion that Coll Stewart ought to be senior to Colonel Craige.”


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 3 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

Gentn
Head Quarters Middlebrook 3d May 1779

I had the honor of your favor of the 25th ultimo thro’ Col. Pickering.
The extract of a letter from Mr Measam D.C.G. and the several objects to which it refers, will naturally claim the earliest notice. In particular the linen and blankets are greatly wanted for the troops; and the necessity of encreasing our supply of both so evident as to stand in need of no arguments to induce the board to take such measures as the present occasion may require, to provide the one—and encrease to other. I am, with due respect Gentn your most obedient and very hble servt.
P.S. Since Baron Steuben’s arrival in camp I have confered with him on the subject of the Adjt General as assistant to the inspectorate General—And upon the whole, I would think it advisable that the two offices should be connected by such an appointment.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 3 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Brodhead, Daniel

        Dr sir.
Head Qrs Middle Brook May 3d 1779

I have been favoured with your Letter of the 3d Ulto, with it’s several Inclosures. I wrote you on the 21st of April some days before the receipt of it, that I had relinquished the idea of attempting a cooperation between the Troops at Fort pitt and the bodies moving from other Quarters against the Six nations—and assigned the reasons. Lest this Letter should have miscarried by any accident, I now inclose you a Copy—and you will consider it as a Letter of Instructions, as far as it extends.
I have written to the Board of War on the subject of Cloathing and Money for the Troops under your command—and I am persuaded they will use their endeavours to furnish such supplies, as may be in their power.
It has been the misfortune of Many Officers in captivity to have been overlooked by their States, who had the power of all regimental appointments, which seems to have been the case with respect to Mr Broadhead. Had he been appointed in the line, after so long an absence from you I should not have refused him the opportunity of paying you [a] visit; but as he has not, there cannot be a possibility of objection on my part.
With respect to Fort Laurens—both this and Fort McIntosh appear to be material posts—and I could wish them to be sufficiently garrisoned and the former well supplied with provision that it may not be liable to fall through want or in case of an attack before it can be relieved. These as I have said, I wish to be sufficiently garrisoned; but I do not mean that the Troops should be exposed to loss—as such an event would involve the most disagreable consequences; and to prevent it—the most pointed and vigilant attention should be paid to the movements and preparations on the part of the Enemy; as an investiture with Artillery would most probably if not certainly end in their destruction, if a sufficient force could not be assembled timously to prevent the Investure. And, besides these two posts—I think it will be material for you if circumstances will permit to establish one, as soon as possible at Kittaning—and another at Venango. These would not only afford protection to Westmoreld County but hold forth appearances of an expedition up the Alligany—and drawing the attention of the Seneccas in some measure that way—would make them more vulnerable in other Quarters and of course countenance the progress of our Troops in the points of real attack. If the state of things will not authorise the establishing of both—yet it may that at Kittaning. But your conduct upon this as well as many other occasions must be governed by circumstances.
It is of Importance most certainly to preserve the friendship of the Indians who have not taken up the Hatchet—and I am persuaded no address or means in your power will be wanting to this end. Unhappily our circumstances will not admit of our making them such presents as I could wish—and which possibly might effectually secure their friendship—or at least their neutral⟨ity⟩.
With respect to a Deputy Adjt General & an Inspector—it does not appear to me—that such Officers are essential in the Western department at this t⟨ime.⟩ The force there is too small to require the former—and the mode of war, being of the partizan & desultory kind, does not render the latter very material nor would the duties of the office be practicable dispersed as the Troops will ⟨be.⟩ These considerati⟨ons,⟩ added to the necessity of the strictest public œconomy at this crisis in all our affairs—are opposed to such appointments. As to a Deputy paymaster & Muster Master the appointments are not with me. I will mention them to the Board of War—who will pursue measures I doubt not for filling the vacancies.
I have no Commissions—they all issue now from the Board of War—on arrangements and Lists previously returned to them.
I have nothing interesting to inform you of. The Armamen⟨ts⟩ in the West Indies are considerable on both sides; but as yet nothing has happened—or at least nothing has reached us. I am Dr sir Yr Most Obedt sert.
P.S. I must request your particular care & attention to the Batteaux & Boats that may be provided⟨,⟩ so that they may not be injured lost or separated by a common use of them. For although we do not know the precise time when they may be wanted—the occasion may be sudden—and it would not answer to have them to collect.
I have just now received a report that Colo. Vanscaick who commands at Fort Schuyler formerly Fort Stanwix had made a sudden & successful irruption into the Onondaga Country—had burnt one of their Towns—killed 15 Men on the Spot and brought off 30 prisoners. I have not yet received the particulars thro. an Official channel—but it is certain he has made a successful expedition and taken prisoners—a Letter from Genl Clinton of the State of New York announces this—and adds that as General Schuyler had promised to transmit me the particulars he would not do it—Genl Schuylers Letter has not reached me. This tribe has been very hostile and has met with the chastisements they deserved.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 3 May 1779
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Fort Pitt [Pa.] May 3rd 1779

Civil Law in this part of the Country is very feeble and by the confession of the Magistrates cannot answer the end of restraining the Inhabitants from committing the most flagrant abuses on the troops by selling them Liquor at the most exorbitant prices for Money or public Stores causing Drunkeness & other lewdness to prevail, which inervates the Men and causes them to be guilty of many unwarrantable Acts for which they alone can be punished whilst those who are the greatest aggressors pass with impunity to the great injury of the Service. Many other Arguments might be advanced, why in case of extream urgency Martial Law ought to be established in this District during the Campaign.
One of the privates of the 13th V. Regt has maliciously killed one of the best young Men of the Delaware Nation and I fear the Consequences will be bad to the innocant Inhabitants. I have the fellow confined but cannot try him for want of a Field Officer and if I could it might perhaps not be so proper as to deliver him over to the Civil Law where he may linger in Goal many Months and in the present temper of the Inhabitants, I predict, he will with the most pointed Evidence against him escape Punishment. Several parties have been assembled to Murder the Delaware Chiefs now on their way to Philadelphia. Should they effect their Malicious purpose there will be an end to negotiation and a general war with the Savages will be the enivitable consequence of their Barbarity.
Great Numbers of the Inhabitants are daily moving down the Ohio to Kantucke & the Falls which greatly weakens the Frontier. But as they have passes from the civil Magistrates I do not conceive any right in me to prevent them going to settle where they please. The great emigration of the Inhabitants prevents the Quarter Master & Commissary from hiring Men on any terms And it would require at least half the Soldiers in this Department to enable them to do their Duty. The Quarter master has a number of Men employed under the direction of a Master workman in getting Timber for the Boats and upwards of twenty Men are employed in making large Canoes.
I have never been informed how far this district or Department extends and it is necessary for me, to know it, to prevent improper interference.
Inclosed are three Copies of Letters received from Major Vernon Colo. Lochery & Captn Morehead Many of the Inhabitants are fled but some begin to retaliate and have lately taken several Scalps.
I have this Moment learnt from good authority that the Inhabitants of Monongahela County by the direction of the Lieutt, in contempt of orders, have forcibly seized the public Provisions although the Troops here have been without fleshmeat for ten Days past.
Two Spies are gone into the Seneca Country several Days ago, one of them is a whiteman who speaks their Language very well and the other is a Delaware Indian I shall send another couple as soon as possible.
A considerable quantity of Boat stuff is ready and I hear seventy odd Boat Builders from below will be here in a few Days.
I have heard nothing of Colo. Rawlins although I wrote to hasten his March Neither do I hear of any resources worth mentioning and begin to fear we cannot set out So early as I could wish—The waters continue too low to bring down Flour in Boats.

The recruiting Officers seem discouraged I fear they will get no Men since common Labourers receive from six to eight Dollars a Day in this neighbourhood. Fort Laurens will be evacuated the 25th instant and I expect all the Stores will be brought off.
I shall be happy if we can move by the first of June My Men have worn out their Shoes & their feet in scouting after the Indians but with little success hitherto. I have heard where the Mingoes & Muncy’s have their grand rendevouz about fifteen Miles above Kittanning and hope to give a good account of them a few Days hence. I shall immediately send another Express to Colo. Rawlins to hasten his March. I have the Honor to be with every Sentiment of the Most perfect regard & Esteem Your Excellencies most obedt & Humble Servt

        Daniel BrodheadCommandg W.D.


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 3 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

Sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook 3d May 1779

I was duly honored with your Excellency’s letter of the 28th of last month, with its inclosures, to which proper attention shall be paid.
I inclose you extracts from some letters lately received from General Schuyler, which are interesting in their nature, and require immediate direction. They are rather of a remote date, having been long in coming to hand. Congress will perceive, that some of the hostile tribes of Indians, the Cayugas in particular are desirous of making peace with us—and that it will be necessary to give our Commissioners instructions on this subject. I am inclined to think in our present situation, it may be politic enough to make a partial peace with some of the tribes, though I should not wish to see it extended to the whole, even if their inclination prompted by their fears should lead them to solicit it; of which however there is no present appearance. A disposition to peace in these people can only be ascribed to an apprehension of danger and would last no longer than till it was over and an opportunity offered to resume their hostility with safety and success. This makes it necessary that we should indeavour to punish them severely for what has past; and by an example of rigor intimidate them in future. But by confining this to those nations who are most formidable and mischievous the end will be answered, and by detaching a part from the confederacy, we lessen the force we have to combat, add perhaps to our own and make the stroke intended more easy and certain. This policy seems the more eligible from the account given of the detachment which is designed to be sent from Canada to the Westward. This is a measure, I have all along dreaded, and to prevent it, if possible, have employed every artifice I could think of to excite jealousies of an invasion of Canada, and induce the Enemy there to keep their force at home. I have directed that effectual measures may be taken to ascertain the intelligence of the Western reinforcement. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect & esteem Sir Your Most Obet servant
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 3 May 1779
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Elizth Town [N.J.] 3d May 1779

I have the pleasure to inclose to your Excellency a late New york paper informing us of a Packet having arived there from England last thursday. I have information that I think may be depended on, that four Regts was Embarked on board Vesel about three days ago, and it was thought verry probable more would embark in a day or two but no certainty of it. It is thought they were designed for Georgia. A Fleet yesterday fell down to the Hook I neither know their number nor destination. I have likewise had a report that the British Troops are all returned from the East end of Long Island. They still talk of making a Stroke at this place or Amboy. I am Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servant
Wm Maxwell B.G.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General John Nixon, 3 May 1779
From: Nixon, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Colla Bargh near Croton River [N.Y.] May 3d 1779

It has been represented to me by the Commanding Officers of the 4th and 5th Massachusetts Battallions, that the Officers of those Regiments have had no Opportunity to furnish themselves with Cloathing at a price below the usual Rates, in any of the Continental Stores, as has ⟨been⟩ allowed by a Resolution of Congress; whilst many Regiments in different parts of the Army has been Amply Supplied.
I could wish therefore that the Officers of those two Regiments, (Namely Putnam’s and Nixons) if your Excellency should think fit, might have an Opportunity of furnishing themselves with Cloathing in the publick Stores to a reasonable amount, so as to put them upon an Equal footing with the rest of the Army in General; Especially as they are very destitute in some particular Articles. I have the Honour to be with the highest respect Sir Your Excellencies most Obedient Humble Servant
Jno. Nixon B.G.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Oliver Spencer, 3 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Spencer, Oliver

Sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 3d 1779

I have received your favour of the 30th of April. The mutinous spirit which appears in the regiment late Col. Malcoms is very alarming and dangerous; and however disagreeable it may be to drive a matter of this kind to extremity, obedience must at all events be inforced, or there is no knowing how extensively pernicious the example may prove—I must therefore desire you will take the most effectual measures to quell the mutiny, and oblige the whole corps now under your command to proceed on the service for which it is destined. Though the task cannot be pleasing to you, the necessity, I am convinced will make you chearfully execute it—I have the fullest confidence in your exertions; and I doubt not they will be seconded by the officers in general. You will be pleased to communicate my determination to them and let it be impressed on the minds of the parties concerned, that if a sense of duty and fair means will not succeed, I will, if necessary even send a force, from this army to compel the obedience of the refractory and punish the instigators.
If the remaining officers of the corps in question are desirous of resigning, it will be considered hereafter; whether it may ⟨not⟩ be for the good of the service to dissolve the corps and make the distribution which seems to be wished—But at present no intimations of the kind are to be given—The first object is to teach the disobedient, submission. With great regard I am Sir Your most Obed. ser.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Oliver Spencer, 3 May 1779
From: Spencer, Oliver
To: Washington, George

Sir
Easton [Pa.] May 3d 1779

it gives me the greates pain to trouble your Excellency with any further Account of the Unhappy Mutiny Committed by that part of the Regt, formerly Col. Malcoms, but justice to my own Reputation, constrains me to do it. I now view it in a Diffirent light from what I did when I wrote by Cap. Santford, and to Say nothing more, there Appeared too much Softness in the officers who had the Command of them, or the first motions of Mutiny might have been easily quelled, and as Col. Malcom, With a Number of his Officers were on the Spot, I did not think proper to make an Attempt to Suppress it, otherwise than by fair words. Cap. Santford was the only Officer who acted with the least Spirit on the Occation, and as far as his authority extinded which was only over his own Company, had it’s desired Effect. I wish it may not be the case, that Some person instead of removing all Objections to their Serving under my Command, (which I am fully of Opinion is merely a pretence) have endeavoured to prejudice the minds of the Soldiers, against me and instead of quelling, rather [countenanced] the riot; these are hard things to charge persons with but it is too Obvious, not to mention, and was taken Notic of by All the Spectator’s present enclosed is Mr Hollets letter of resignation to Col. Malcom which he desired me to inclose, in my last but was forgot.
Col. Malcom is gone to Philadelphia in order to pursuade Congress to do Something more to his mind.
altho’ I gave my Voice, with the then Major part of the Officers to have the Regiment Desolved, yet as circumstances now are and as a number of those officers had previously resigned & Some others now joind that are aversed to the measure. I rather Chuse to let that matter (as there will be a majority against) take it’s course, and be determined in the Same manner it would have been done, had not this unhappiness Happened. Especially as I am Set out on the Campaign.
Since writing the Above Im Honor’d with your Excellencys favour pr Cap. Santford Dated Yesterday, which gives me the Greatest Satisfaction, your Excellency may depend on my utmost endeavours not only to reduce to Obedience the refractory Spirit of Some of the Soldery, but make every possible preparation, to March from this, as Soon as we can to be furnished with pack horses, forage &c. Im with the greatest Respect your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt
O. Spencer
P.S. the Corps of Officers have made Choice of Lt James Bonnell for the Pay Master of the Regt and Mr Taulman acts as Adjutant, and wish to Receive their Warrants from your Excellency agreable to the resolve of Congress. I am &c. &c.
O. Spencer


Title: General Orders, 4 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Tuesday May 4th 1779
Parole Saguntum—C. Signs Surrey. Sark.

The first part of the regulations for the exercise & discipline of the troops being already communicated to the different brigades each officer must immediately furnish himself with a copy of the chapter on the instructions of recruits and the commanding officers of regiments must begin tomorrow to carry the same into execution in their respective Regiments.
The General hopes that the commanding officers of corps, being convinced of the necessity of this exercise, which our circumstances have hitherto obliged us to neglect, will now redouble their Zeal in carrying it into execution; and as a single man’s being ignorant of the principles will often cause disorder in a platoon & sometimes in a battalion, no waiter or other soldier is to be exempted from this exercise.
As some Companies may not have a sufficiency of officers to instruct their men, the commanding officers of regiments will divide those of their regiments as equally as possible among the different companies according to their strength.
The exercise to begin at 7 ôclock & continue ’till nine in the morning: At five in the afternoon the commanding officers of regiments must assemble their officers and instruct them in the different steps, how to dress, wheel and keep their distance with precision; The Major or eldest Captain will at the same time instruct the non commissioned officers; this exercise to continue ’till six ôclock when the regiment is to turn out and exercise as in the morning.
The above exercise without Arms to continue in practice ’till further orders.
The Inspector General and officers in his depar[t]ment will visit the different Brigades in turn and must be answerable they do not deviate in the smallest-point from the principles laid down and established in the regulations.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General John Glover, 4 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Glover, John

Sir
Hd Qrs Middlebrook 4 May 1779

I have to acknowlege your two favors of the 2d and 26 ultimo.
When I directed your brigade to hold itself in readiness to march it was with an intention to employ it elsewhere for the common interest. How far this will permit me to dispense with the former order I cannot at this instant decidedly say—In a few days I possibly may determine whether two or three regiments of the other Brigade may not answer my views, of which you will be further informed.
My wish is to give content, and to cover every State as far as the means in my hands will permit. But it will occur to you that the most vulnerable parts and those on which our common safety depends should claim a principal share of our attention. this will often make changes in the disposition of troops necessary—and put it out of my power to reconcile it to every interest.
With respect to your commission, the application shall be made to Congress or the board of war. I am sir &.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 4 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Sir,
[Middlebrook, 4 May 1779]

Having already fully explained to you the plan of the Western expedition against the Indians of the Six Nations, and the preparations necessary in your department—I am now to inform you that Major General Sullivan is appointed to the command of this expedition, and to desire that you will comply with his immediate requisitions for every thing which falls within the province of your department so far as is consistent with the general directions you receive from me relative to the operations of the Army at large.
I must request you will immediately inform me, with as much precision and certainty as possible; when you will have ready the number of Waggons and all other matters in your department requisite to enable me to make a general movement of the army, and take the field, agreeable to former directions. You are so well acquainted with the urgent motives to a speedy movement, that I am persuaded, I need not press you to make every exertion in your power for that purpose. Given at Head Quarters Middle Brook May 4th 1779
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 4 May 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 4th May 1779

The enclosed Act of Congress of the 1st Inst., authorizes your Excellency to call upon Massachusetts-Bay for the Continental Cannon lent to that State.
I am directed to inform you that if you want Specie for secret Service, you may draw for any Sum, or Sums to the amount of two thousand Guineas upon the treasurer who will pay the same. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant
John Jay Presidt


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 4 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 4th 1779

I have received the honor of your two letters, both of the 1st instant.
I have generally been so happy as to agree with your Excellency in sentiment on public measures; but an instance now occurs, in which there happens to be a difference of opinion. I am extremely apprehensive that very disagreeable consequences may result from an increase of the standing pay of the militia. It would create an additional cause of discontent to the Soldiery, who would naturally draw a comparison between their situation and that of the militia and would think it very hard and unjust that these should receive for temporary services a greater reward than they for permanent ones. This would occasion disgust and desertion, if not mutiny, among those already in the army; and would be a new discouragement to others from entering into it. The only remedy would be to augment the pay of the Soldiery to an equal sum, and the like must be done in the other States to their militia. The addition of Public expence would then be excessive and the decay of our credit and currency proportional.
Your Excellency will agree with me, that every step should be carefully avoided, which has a tendency to dissatisfy the army, already too little pleased with its condition, and to weaken our military establishment already too feeble, and requiring every prop our circumstances will afford—to keep it from falling into ruin!
I should imagine the militia of the Country is to be drawn out by the authority of the Government rather than by the pecuniary reward attached to their service—If the former is not sufficient, the latter I apprehend will be found ineffectual—To make the compensation given to the militia an inducement of material weight it must be raised so high as to bear a proportion to what they might obtain by their labour in their civil occupations; and in our case to do this, it must be raised so high as I fear, to exceed the utmost stretch of our finances.
But if it is thought indispensible to increase the emoluments of service, in order to bring out the militia, it will be best to do it by a bounty rather than a fixed monthly pay—This would not be quite so palpable, nor strike the minds of the army with the same degree of force. But even this is a very delicate point—and I have uniformly thought the large bounties which have been given in state inlistments and to the militia have been a very fertile source of evils and an almost irreparable injury to the service.
I have taken the liberty to communicate my sentiments on this subject with great freedom to your Excellency as it appears to me a matter of extreme importance; and as I have the most intire confidence in your candour and friendship. If my objections do not appear valid, you will at least ascribe them to their proper motives—I shall agreeable to your Excellencys wish continue the troops or the principal part of them at their present stations as long as it can be done without interfering with the main object—I believe it will be a few days beyond the period limited in my former letter.
Though I should have been unwilling to have accepted the surrender of the deserters on conditions; yet as I understand from Captn Benquet they have already delivered themselves up this difficulty is removed: I agree with your Excellency that it would be ineligible to send them to South Carolina, and I have therefore ordered them to Easton—They will be employed on the Western service—A small party of horse will be necessary and these fortunately will answer the purpose—I was before somewhat at a loss.
From the general complexion of the intelligence from England and from that of the Minister’s speech of which I have seen some extracts in a New York paper of the first instant, there is in my opinion the greatest reason to believe that a vigorous prosecution of the war is determined on. Considerable reinforcements have been frequently mentioned as coming over to Sir Henry Clinton. This by many is discredited; but to me it appears so probable as to demand our most serious attention. While England can procure money, she will be able to procure men; and while she can maintain a ballance of naval power she may spare a considerable part of those men to carry on the war here. The measures adopted by Parliament some time since for recruiting the army were well calculated to succeed; and the information we have received justifies a belief that it has been attended with no small success. Under these circumstances prudence exacts that we should make proportionable exertions on our part; and I assure Your Excellency the situation of our army demands them.
I am sorry to find our prospects of a reinforcement are extremely slender—The Virginia levies intended for this quarter are now of necessity ordered to the Southward—few of the States have as yet done any thing that has come to my knowlege towards augmenting their batalions—This discouraging aspect of things justifies no small degree of anxiety and alarm—I confess my feelings upon the subject are painful—I am persuaded Sir you will be ready to promote every measure which may be found practicable for completing the batalions of this State and I beg leave to recommend the matter to the most particular attention. With every sentiment of regard & esteem I am Dear Sir Your most Obedt servant
P.S. Since writing the above I am favour[ed] with yours of the 4th—Directions shall be given to The Commissary accordingly.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas-Antoine, Mauduit Du Plessis, 4 May 1779
From: Plessis, Thomas-Antoine, Mauduit Du
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Besançon [France] 4 may 1779

i use of the liberty that you have given me to write you, i cannot express you how i am Grateful for all your Goodness; i have done all what was in my power to prove to your Country my zeal for the Cause, you have been sensible of it, and at your recommandation i have been reward’d more than i deserved, be Certain, dear General, i shall be always ready to Lose my Life for my good friend the American you Know me enough, i hope, to be sure of it. i am american Soldier, and it is for all my lyfe. i have the honor to be with the most sincere, and respectuous attachement, Dear General. Your Most obedient servant
Le Che. de Mauduit Duplessis
the Che. De La Luzerne our minister plenipotentiary, who will give you this Letter is one of the most excellent men, i am very much acquainted with him.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 4 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

Sir
Hd Qrs Middlebrook 4th May 1779

I duly recd your two favors of the 1st and 3d inst.
I wish you to be as diligent as possible in gaining further intelligence respecting the embarkation of troops—how many and what regiments—what quantity of provisions they have on board—whether for a long or short voyage—and if the soldiers have received any additional light clothing adapted to a warm climate.
You will give immediate orders to one of the three regiments under your command to be in the most perfect readiness to march in two or three days from this date—I will however send you further notice on this subject. The remaining two regim[ents] will also put themselves in the same state of preparation to move on the shortest notice.
My former orders with respect to disencumbering themselves of all unnecessary baggage or camp furniture; reserving only such as is of light portage, and that cannot be dispensed with during the operations of the campaign, I make no doubt has been properly attended to. I am Sir &.
G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 4 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Sir,
[Middlebrook, 4 May 1779]

Having appointed you to take the command of an expedition, which is to be carried on to the Westward against the Indians of the Six nations—You will be pleased forthwith to repair to Easton, in order to superintend, and forward the preparations, for that purpose.
You will previously make every necessary arrangement with the Quarter Master and Commissary General relative to your supplies of Stores and provisions, which ought to be hastened to the places of their destination with all possible dispatch: The time, manner and route for conveying the cattle for the expedition ought to be particularly ascertained.
I have ordered a regiment from Poor’s brigade to cross to Easton—another from Maxwells will proceed there in a few days—But the troops should not be drawn together ’till the preparations are complete or nearly so, to avoid a consumption of the provisions and stores, destined for the support of the expedition.
It is essential that the road from Easton to Wyoming be opened without delay that the troops and supplies passing that way may meet with no obstruction.
You will open a correspondence with General Hand at Wyoming and instruct them to give all the aid he can with the troops under his command to accelerate the transportation of provisions and stores up the River. You will also direct him to put every engine in motion to obtain the most precise intelligenc⟨e⟩ of the enemy’s situation and views—And in short you will make every exertion a⟨nd⟩ employ every expedient to complete the preparatio⟨ns⟩ for penetrating into the India[n] Country by way of Tioga on the Susquehannah on the plan which has bee⟨n⟩ already explained—and may be finally adopted. You will be pleased to consider these as preparatory instructions. when our plan of operations is ultimately fixed and ready for execution, you will receive others more full and definite. Given at Head Quarters Mid⟨dle⟩ Brook May 4th 1779.


Title: From George Washington to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 4 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

Sir,
[Middlebrook, 4 May 1779]

Having already given you directions as to the preparations necessary in your department towards carrying on an expedition against the Indians of the six Nations—I am now to inform you that Major General Sullivan is appointed to the command, and to desire that you will comply with his immediate requisitions for every thing which falls under the providence of your department, so far as may be consistent with the general instructions you receive from me relative to the operations of the army at large. Given at Head Quarters Middle Brook May 4th 1779.
Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 5 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Wednesday May 5th 1779.
Parole Euphrates.C. Signs Ebro Edom.

The General reminds the Army that tomorrow is the General Fast; He expects it will be observed according to the order of the 12th of April last—No exercising or fatigue to be permitted thereon.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benedict Arnold, 5 May 1779
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Philadelphia May 5th 1779

I have been honor’d with your Excellencys two Letters of the 26th and 28th April, and am extreemly sorry to find It should be thought there was a necessity of postponing my tryal to so late a Period as June, or July, from no other Reason than the Presidt & Council of this State “representing that the Period appointed for the purpose and the previous Notice given were too short to admit of the necessary Evidence being produced in time.[”]
Their Pretence of the Witnesses being in Virginia, and Carolina, and the Time being too short to produce them I can View in no other light than a Base, pitiful Evasion, evidently calculated to put of[f] the Tryal, that my Character unjustly aspers’d may stil suffer while the Villains who have Injured me Cowardly Cloak themselves under Office; They have had three Months to look for Evidence, and Cannot produce one against me. I supose the Gentlemen they mention being in Carolina Are my two Aids, gone there as Volunteers to Spend the summer; They left this City long Since the Court Martial was Ordered and might easily have been detained had the Council thought proper to do it.

Believe me my Dear General the whole is nothing more than pertence and Artifice to delay the Matter the final Determination of which must make the Presidt & Council Appear to the World in their true Colours as a set of Unprincipal’d Malicious Scoundrils, who have Prostituted their Honor, and truth for the Purpose of gratifying their Private Resentment against an Innocent Person.
From a Candid View of the Charges and whole proseedings against me Contained in the Papers Transmitted Your Excellency, you must be fully persuaded I have been injustly accused, and that I have been refused Justice from Congress on the Report of their Committee.
From a knowlidge of my Public Conduct since I have been in the Army no Man is a better Judge, If I have merrited the treatment I have received.
If Your Excellency thinks me Criminal For Heavens sake let me be immediately Tried and If found guilty Executed, I want no favor I ask Only for Justice, If it is denied me from Your Excellency I have no where to seek it but of the Candid Public before whom I shall be under the necessity of laying the whole Matter. Let me beg of you Sir to Consider that a Set of artful unprincipal’d Men in Office may Misinterpret the most Innocent Actions, and by raising the Public Clamour against your Excellency place you in the same disagreable situation I am in.
Haveing made every Sacrafise of Fortune and Blood, and become a Cripple in the Service of my Country, I little expected to meet the ungrateful Returns I have received of my Countrymen, but as Congress have Stampt Ingratitude as a Current Coin I must take it, I wish Your Excellency for your long and Eminent Services may not be paid of In the Same Coin.
I have nothing left but the little reputation I have gained in the Army, Delay in the present Case Is worse than Death and when it is Considered that the Presidt and Council have had three Months to produce their Evidence, I cannot supose the Ordering a Court Martial to Determine the Matter Immediately in the least Precipitateing the Matter, which in Justice ought to have been determined long Since, and which the President and Council wish to put of untill the Campaign Opens Concludeing undoubtedly that the Service will then Prevent the Court from Siting, the tryal Postponed untill the End of the Campaign and their Cruel and Villanous Purposes answered. I must therefore Intreat Your Excellency that a Court Martial may be Ordered to sit as soon as Posible, and If the Court find Sufficient Reasons they will of Course Adjourn to a longer time, not doubting but my request will be granted, I have the honor to be with the highest Respect and Esteem Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servt
B. Arnold


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Jacob Bayley, 5 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Bayley, Jacob

Sir
Hd Qrs Middlebrook 5 May 1779

I have to acknowlege your favor of the 26th ultimo.
The moment you receive your intelligence from the persons which you have employed at Quebec and other places in Canada—you will make me a transmission. I hope their character is such as to give the strongest credit to their reports.
I am so much engaged at present—that I must defer any other matters which may arise on your letter to another opportunity. I have written however fully to Col. Hazen. I am Sir &
G. W——n


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 5 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

        Gentlemen.
Head Qrs—Middlebrook 5 May 1779.

In a letter from Colonel Brodhead, dated Fort McIntosh the 3d Ultimo, he has the following paragraph “There is a prodigious deficiency of Clothing and money in this department; some cloth has indeed been purchased in the State of Virginia, but the means of making it up are not provided; shoes and Linen cannot be had at any rate unless they are sent up by the clothier general.” He adds in another place “a deputy adjutant general, Deputy pay master Genl muster master and Inspector will be necessary in this department.”
As the troops under Colonel Brodhead must suffer the greatest inconveniencies if a supply is not furnished them, I thought it best to lay his representation as early as possible before the board, that it might have an opportunity to make a proper provision on the occasion.
With respect to an appointment of a Deputy Adjutant General and Inspector, I would beg leave to observe, that such officers do not appear to me essential in the western department. The force is too small to require the one; and the mode of war being of the desultory kind does not render the latter very material Nor is the duties of the office practicable as the troops will be situated.
As to the Deputy pay Master, and Muster Master, they are proper enough, and I would therefore recommend them to consideration. Colonel Brodhead in his letter expresses a desire to have his son appointed to one of these offices. This gentleman was early in the war, made prisoner, and is now in Philadelphia—But the Board will be able to inform itself better of his merit than I can, as his captivity has put this so much out of my power. I am Gentn
G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Royal Flint, 5 May 1779
From: Flint, Royal
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Camp Rariton [N.J.] May 5. 1779.

On inspecting the inclosed account, it appears, that some part of the flour, which that specifies, was not lodged on the Susquehannah, when the return was made out. By a letter from Colo. Blaine, which accompanied it, I find that those provisions mentioned, as being at York, Frederick & Cumberland counties, are collecting at Harris’s ferry; and those in the upper part of Lancaster county, at Middleton; and that they will be all compleat by the 12th instant. Colo. Blaine has promised to be at camp next week; he will give General Sullivan a more particular description of the several deposits; and take directions for making up any deficiencies or correcting any errors, which may then be discovered. I am respectfully your Excellencys Most Obt & hbl. Srvt
Royal Flint A.C.G.P.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Harrison, 5–7 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Harrison, Benjamin

My dear Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 5th[–7] 1779.

Your favor of the 8th of Feby arrivd safe by Colo. Mead abt the 10th of Apl—It conveyed to me a two fold pleasure; 1st to hear that you were ready to obey the call of your Country in a representatn of it and 2dly that yo. cd do it with more ease & convenience to your Affairs than formerly.
If my time would permit, and it was proper & safe by the Post to go into a free discussion of the political state of our Affairs I could, & would, write you a very long letter on this subject, but this kind of conveyance is too uncertain (while the enemy are pursuing with avidity every means in their power to come at the sentiments of Men in office) to hazard such opinions as I could wish to convey; I shall only remark therefore, that no day passes without some proofs of the Justness of the observations contained in My letter to you by Colo. Mead, & the necessity of the measure there recommended—if it is much longer neglected I shall not scruple to add, that our affairs are irretrievably lost! I see no cause to retract a single sentiment contained in that long letter, but many very many, alarming proofs in confirmation of the truth of them—if the letter therefore is in being you are possessed as fully of my ideas on the several matters there touched as I have words to express them and may allow them such weight as you think they deserve. An instance in proof of one of my positions I may give, because it is a fact of such notariety that to the enemy, & to ourselves, it is equally well known—it is, that Beef in the Market of Phila. is from ten to 15/. a pound, & other things in proportion—Country produce & imported Goods are equally dear—under these circumstances, and no appearances that I can see of a radical cure, it is not difficult to predict the fate of our Paper Money, and with it, a general Crash of all things.
The Measures of Ministry are taken; and the whole strength & resources of the Kingdom will be exerted against us this Campaign; while we have been either slumbering and sleeping or disputing upon trifles—contenting ourselves with laughing at the impotence of G: Britain which we supposed to be on her knees begging mercy of us & forgiveness for past offences instead of devising ways & means to recruit our Battalions—provide supplies—& improving our finances thereby providing against the worst & a very possible contingency.
Accts from Londn to the 9th of March have fixed me in the opinion that G. Britain will strain every nerve to distress us this Campaign but where, or in what manner her principal force will be employed I cannot determine—that a pretty considerable number of Troops will be sent from G. Britain does not, I think, admit of a doubt; but whether for the West Indies—Georgia—or New York—or partly to all three, time must unfold—my own opinion of the matter is, that they will keep a respectable force at the last mentioned place & push their operations vigorously to the Southward where we are most vulnerable & least able to afford succour—By extracts from English Papers of the 4th of March it appears pretty evident that Seven Regiments, besides two of the New raised Scotch Corps, Recruits for the Guards, & other Regits now in America, were upon the point of embarking—the whole it is said would amount to 12 or 13000 Men. A Bill has passed both Houses of Parliament obliging each parish in the Kingdom to furnish two Men by which it is said 27,000 will be raised—With this augmn, & her fleets, which are more than a match for the Naval strength of France alone she may, circumstanced as we are, give a very unfavourable turn to that pleasing slumber we have been in for the last eight Months—& which has produc’d nothing but dreams of Peace and Independance—if Spain can be kept quiet; to effect which there is no doubt but that all the Art & address of the Ministry will be displayed & with too much success it is to be feared, as it will be difficult upon any political ground (I am capable of investigating) to acct for the backwardness of that Court if it means to take an active part, as the Fleets of France and Independance of America are hazarded by the delay.
From present appearances, I have not the smallest doubt but that we shall be hard pushed in every quarter—This campaign will be the grand, and if unsuccessful, more than probably the last struggle of G. Britain; how much then does it behoove us to be prepar’d at all points to avert their intended blows. They are raising all the Indians from North to South that their arts & their Money can procure, & a powerful diversion they will make in this quarter, with the aid expected from Canada—They have already begun their depredations—Under this view of things, which I believe is not exagerated, and the probability of the enemy’s operating to the Southward out of supporting diste of this Army would it not be good policy in the state of Virginia to extend their views to the necessary and effectual suppurt of their Southern neighbours—The slow—ineffectual—and expensive modes ordinarily used to draw out the Militia is ruinous in the extreme on acct of the enormous expence which is incurred in the consumption of Provisions & stores, to say nothing of the useless time which they are paid for in coming—going—and waiting for each other at any given point or place of rendezvous or the injuries wch agriculture & manufactures sustain—I know too little of the policy—energy—& situation of your government to hazard a clear opinion on the propriety, or practicability of any measure adequate to this end—nor do I know upon what footing your minute Men which existed at the commencement of this dispute were put (as the establishment of them happened after I left Virginia) but it appears to me, that if a certain proportion of the Militia of each County w⟨ere⟩ enrolled under this description—properly Officered by Men who had seen Service & know how to train them—& were inform’d that they were to be first called to Service it might prove a very happy resource—If the proportion which shall be agreed on cannot be obtained voluntarily from the Militia, let the privates perform the duty by rotation—These are but crude ideas, and will in case they shd merit notice at all require time and consideration to digest them to system and order. My forebodings may lead me too far; but apprehensive as I am on acct of the situation of ⟨the⟩ Southern states, I shall hope to stand excused for this freedom of thought, especially as I am convinced that Militia wch can only be drawn out for short limited periods, can afford no effectual aid while they ruin us in expence.
Little did I expect when I begun this letter that I should have spun it out to this length, or that I should have run into such freedom of sentiment, but I have been led on insensibly & therefore shall not boggle at the mention of one thing more which I am desirous to touch upon, it is with respect to the treatment of the Convention troops, now in Virginia. No man in the early part of this War wished more than I did to soften the hardships of captivity by seeing the enemy’s Officers, prisoners with us, treated with every mark of humanity, civility, and respect. but such invariable proofs of ungrateful returns from an opinion that all your civilities are the result of fear—such incessant endeavours, maugre all their paroles, to poison the minds of those around them—such arts & address to accomplish this, by magnifying the power of G. Britain to some, her favourable disposition to others and combining the two arguments to a third set, that I cannot help looking upon them as dangerous guests in the bowels of our Country & apprehending a good deal from the hospitality & unsuspicious temper of my Countrymen. the more indulged they are, the more indulgencies they will require, and more pernicious they grow under them and I am much mistaken, if those who pay most attention to them, do not find the greatest cause for repentance. I view General Philips in the light of a dangerous Man. In his March to Charlottesville he was guilty of a very great breach of Military propriety, nay of a procedure highly criminal; for instead of pursuing the rout pointed out to him, namely the one by which the Troops of Convention Marched through Leesburg orange &ca he struck down to George Town in Maryland, from thence went by Water to Alexandria taking as I am told the soundings of the River as he went, & from thence to Fredericksburg. true it is, that the Officer who conducted him was more culpable than he, but upon enquiry it is found that this Officer is a person over whom I have no controul as he is a prisoner of theirs—I only mention these things in proof of the necessity of keeping a watchful eye upon these Officers. and let me add if you think you gain by the apparent desertion of the men I can assure you you are deceived; we are every day apprehending these People in their attempts to get into New York. In a word, I had such good ground to suspect that under pretence of desertion numbers of them intended to get into New York, that I was induced to March paralel with them as they pass’d thro N: Yk & Jersey, and post guards at proper places to intercept them; notwithstanding which numbers aided by the Tories who kept them concealed in the Mountains & obscure places effected a junction with the enemy in the city. Above all things, suffer them not to engage in your service as Soldiers, for so sure as they do, so sure do they rob you of yr bounty & arms, & more than probably carry a man or two along with them to the enemy.
I have already informed you that the Indians have begun their depredations on the Frontiers, & I have the pleasure to add, that we are endeavouring to pay them in their own Coin—about a fortnight ago I sent 500 Men against the Onondago settlement which they destroyed with their Provisns & amn—killed 12 of them (& their Horses & Cattle)—took 34 prisoners—100 stand of Arms & did them other damage witht the loss of a M⟨an⟩—this with what may follow, will, it is to be hoped, be attended with salutary effects.
The enemy have been busily employed some days in preparing Nine Regiments for Imbarkation but for what Service they are intended is uncertain—most likely Georgia. No measures are taking by any of the States to compleat their Battalions; none at least that promises success. except in Virginia where the measure was set about in time—I leave you under this relation and these circumstances to draw your own conclusions & am with every sentiment of regard and Affectn Yrs
Go: Washington
P.S. May 7th This letter will go by Colo. Spotswood to Fredg instead of the Post. I have this instant received advice of the Sailing of the Troops mentioned above (as preparing to imbark) their number said to be 4000. I have ordered all the Virginia levies to be formd into 3 Regiments & Marched under the Comd of Genl Scott immediately for Georgia—Officers are going from Camp to take charge of them—Blands & Baylors Regimts will, I believe, also be sent thither, but if the Troops here mentioned are destined for the Southward more aid must be sent to our army, or South Carolina will soon be added to Georg[i]a.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Moses Hazen, 5 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Hazen, Moses

Sir
Head Quarters Middlebrook 5th May 1779.

I have been duly favored with your letter of the 26th ultimo. It was handed me by Col. Hunts son who will take charge of this.
While I wish to have every thing in the utmost readiness to act according to our circumstances yet till my further directions you will confine yourself strictly to the objects of my instructions. Increasing the number of boats may be deferred—but you will ascertain how many are on the river, that can be called into service when wanted. œconomy in the state of our affairs is a principal consideration. To hide a real intention from the enemy another—or should this be discovered, to perplex as to the moment, as well as the points of operation, by assuming some steps of an ambiguous appearance, and neglecting others that should seem necessary.
While the force is restricted to your regiment, I do not imagine you will have any occasion for an Assistant quarter master general.
In your account of the provision you mention about 16 or 17 hundred bushels of wheat, that has been expended. I would know to what purposes this has been applied as It does not appear to me, that the small party employed in clearing the ro[a]ds could have consumed it. You will, in the mean time take such measures with the commissaries in your quarter, as may keep up a proper and adequate supply of provision for the troops under your command. The instant I find alterations in my instructions expedient, I will give you the earliest advice for your goverment. At present you will push your enquiries into Canada, and collect such information as may be useful and necessary. I need not remind you of carrying on the clearing of the roads, as it will naturally engage a share of your attention. I am sir &.


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 5 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 5th 1779

Inclosed I have the honor to transmit your Excellency three New York papers of the 28th & 29th of April and 1st of May—which I think are interesting.
The last contains extracts from Lord Norths speech at opening the budget which seems to breathe a vigorous prosecution of the war: I have thought appearances for some time past wore this complexion. The English papers have frequently announced considerable reinforcements to the army in America and have even specified the particular Corps intended to be sent over. Nor can I see any sufficient reason to believe this will not be done—While the Government can procure money, men will not be wanting; and while the Nation is uningaged in a Continental war in Europe and can maintain a ballance of naval power, I do not perceive why it should not be able to spare men to continue the war in this country—At least, the probability that they will be able to do it is great enough to demand very vigorous efforts on our part to put the army upon a much more respectable footing than it now is—It does not really appear to me that adequate exertions are making in the several States to complete their Battalions—I hope this may not proceed in part from the expectation of peace having taken too deep root of late in this country.
I beg leave to submit it to Congress whether a private pointed address on this subject from them to the respective Legislatures may not be productive of a good purpose.
I imagine it is unnecessary for me to particularize the situation of the army in the present reduced state of the regiments, after we shall have made the large detachment which will be indispensible for the Western expedition—and considering that all the Virginia Levies are of necessity, to be sent to the Southward—I doubt not they are convinced it is such as to demand the most serious exertions to make it better. With the greatest respect & esteem I have the honor to be Sir, Your most Obet servant
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 5 May 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 5th May 1779

Herewith enclosed is a Copy of an Act of Congress of the 4th Inst., respecting a Brigade of fifteen hundred Men proposed to be raised by the State of Rhode-Island. I have the Honor to be With the greatest Respect & Esteem your Excellency’s Most Obedient And Humble Servt
John Jay Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 5 May 1779
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Elizth Town [N.J.] 5th May 1779

Your Excellencys Favour of yesterday I recd last night and has informed the first Regt they are to march, or be prepared for it, agreeable to Your directions. We have not got our Portmanteaus yet, nor Waggons; our tents are not taken out of the Store at Morris Town for want of Waggons.
Our Brigade Quarter Master is gone to Head Quarters to get some necessarys; however with your asistance I hope we shall be ready, agreeable to your Orders. The pay Masters are all going to Head Quarters to draw pay for the Regts with out which they cannot well move. My entiligence from, the Enemy is, that 4,000 Troops chiefly British is embarked for the West Indias or Georgia, though the latter is the most suspected. Generals Vaughen & Leslie is supposed to take the Command, they were to Embark this day, and the Fleet to Sail on their Voyage immediately. The inclosed list is sent from the other side by those persons that furnishes us with intiligence to have answers put to them. Your Excellency will please to put such answers as you would chuse to have conveyed to them. About 36 sail of Transports with the Troops on Board was at the Hook yesterday. I am Your Excellencys Most Obedt Humble Servant
Wm Maxwell B.G.


Title: From George Washington to Philip Schuyler, 5 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear sir
Head Quarters Middlebrook 5th May 1779.

I had closed the within letter, but had retained it for a conveyance when I received yours of the 24th ultimo.
The disposition of the Cayugas to peace at this juncture is rather embarrassing—and would appear to proceed more from fear, than a desire of permanent friendship. They dread operations of which they must have heard, and wish to escape their effects. On the whole, however it may be good policy to lessen the force of the confederacy by a peace with some of the hostile tribes—but it would be a dangerous experiment, were the whole inclined the same way to give into a general reconciliation. It seems necessary that we should punish some severely for what is past, and by this means intimidate them in future. But by confining this to such nations as are most formidable and mischievous the ⟨e⟩nd will be answered while by withdrawing a part from the confederacy, we diminish the force we have to combat—add perhaps to our own—and make the stroke intended more easy and certain.
In these sintiments I have written to Congress and requested their immediate directions. But lest the application should be made to the commissioners, before Congress decides on a line of conduct for the occasion, I think you had better give them my ideas on the subject; adding that should the Cayugas seem really disposed to peace, or any of the inferior tribes (for I would exclude the Senecas) they will keep the negociation in suspence—but at the same time rather encourage the hopes of reconciliation and amity—for the reasons above mentioned. I am with great regard.
I am this moment favored with yours of the 29th, but have not leisure to enter particularly into its contents—I would observe however, that, It was not my intention to move the troops from Conegoharie, till every thing should be ripe on the susquehannah for commencing our operations.
The Continental guard at Saratoga may remain till we can releive them by an equal number of Militia; or in case these cannot be spared for this purpose, till my further orders.
I have received a letter from Gen. Clinton of the same date with yours of the 29. which mentions that you had transmitted me the particulars of Col. V. Schaick’ expedition against Onondaga. He speaks of it only in general terms of success—your letter to which he alludes, has not come to hand, so that I am left almost wholly in the dark.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Charles Scott, 5 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Charles

Dear sir
Head Qrs Middle Brook May 5: 1779

I have been favoured with your Letter of the 24th Ulto and was sorry to receive such unfavourable accounts respecting the Levies. The exigency of the service requires they should be in the field as soon as possible.
I am now to inform you that the original intention of bringing those levies to reinforce the army here is changed and that they are destined as a reinforcement to the Southern army. Our affairs in Georgia grow dayly more alarming, and unless a force of more permanent troops than militia can be collected sufficient to stop the progress of the enemy in that quarter, we shall have a great deal to apprehend—South Carolina considers herself in immenent danger and fears she will share the fate of her neighbour, if some effectual succour is not afforded. This has dictated the necessity of sending the Virginia levies, however ill we can dispense with their services here.
I am therefore to desire, considering the pressing importance of the occasion, you will exert yourself to collect them, with the utmost expedition at such places as you judge most convenient—and to have them equipped and marched to join the Southern army as soon as circumstances will possibly permit. There is not a moments time to be lost—and I am convinced you will not lose any that it is in your power to improve.
By the levies I mean such of the 2000 men voted by the late act of Assembly as have been raised in Virginia. The men who reinlisted with their regiments here and were furloughed, are not comprehended; but are to come on to join their corps. The levies are to be thrown into three regiments, as I do not imagine you will have more than will complete this number. I shall immediately send you a detachment of officers from the Virginia line, as mentioned in the enclosed list who will be sufficient to officer the three batalions. Part of these are already in Virginia to whom you will give notice. I have written to The Committee of Congress on Southern affairs, on the subject of arms—They I doubt not will take measures to have you supplied as speedily as possible. You will be pleased to march with these troops.
I would recommend for the facility of the march, that the batalions move one after another. This will render subsistence easier and conduce to expedition. You will make previous arrangements with the Quarter Master and Commissary, that you may suffer no delay or difficulty in your route for want of any thing in either of their departments.
You will observe in the list ⟨th⟩at one of the batalions is ⟨wi⟩thout Ensigns—I shall ⟨e⟩ndeavour to supply the ⟨de⟩ficiency—or give some further direction ⟨a⟩bout it. I shall wish to hear of the progress you ⟨m⟩ake in assembling & equipping the Men—of the ⟨ti⟩me you march &c. I am Dr sir with great regard & esteem Your Most Obedt servant
Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 6 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Thursday May 6th 1779.
Parole Tallard—C. Signs Tervel Troy.

The Virginia officers ordered on detachment are to be paid up to the first of May by their regimental Pay-Masters.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 6 May 1779
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Fort Pitt May 6th 1779

I had just closed my Letter of the 3rd instant when I was honoured with your Instructions of the 21st last Month.
Every necessary preparation for evacuating Fort Laurens was already made in obedience to your former Instructions, and how to support it I know not. I can take no Salt Provisions from here without robbing the artificers & the few Troops on the Frontier of eleven Barrels of pork just now arrived under Escort of the Boat Builders I mentioned in my last, nor have I a single pound of fresh meat to issue to them, untill some lean Cattle arrive which are sent for a considerable distance into the Country. The throwing in of supplies to Fort Laurens is always attended with great expence and a large escort is required to guard the Provisions which are necessary to subsist a Garrison at so great a distance in the Enemies Country without the benefit of water carriage and in the mean time the Frontier must be uncovered and the Country men called out from their Farms. Should live Cattle be drove to that post, the Enemy may either drive them off for their future Consumption or destroy them when they please to do it and Consequently the Garrison must suffer. Besides it is an easy matter for the Enemy to come against it with a Couple of pieces of artillery and a number of their Black & white Savages by way of Kayahaga and make themselves Masters of it before the seige could be raised.
I am very well assured that most of the hostilities are committed on this Frontier by the Mingoes & Muncey’s who are numerous & live on the main branch of the Alleghany. and the western Indians except the Shawnese are generally quiet. Both these could soon be chastised from this place. Had I one thousand good Men with permission & resources I should be happy to give those up the River a sudden blow and drive them to a greater distance & immediately proceed by Water to the Shawnese Towns on Scioto about eighty Miles from Detroit in a fine level Country abounding with Herbage and of easy portage & after chastising the Shawnese proceed to Detroit in the proper season. and was another Body in the mean time to make themselves Masters of the carrying places between the Lakes Erie & ontario so as to prevent supplies being thrown into Niagara It is my Humble Opinion we should soon be Masters of Lake Erie & all the Garrisons thereabouts. But your Excellency is far the best Judge of these matters and it is and ever shall be my chief study to execute your plans.
Nine white pine Canoes have been taken up by the Scouts within the last fortnight, some of them are large enough to carry thirty Men each, but the Enemy have rendered them unfit for Service. These canoes are supposed to come from the Mingoe Towns on alleghany River.
The wyondats are respected by the western Indian Nations as much as the six Nations are by the Northern, because they withstood the attacks of the five Nations in their most warlike times & I believe they have caused most of the western Nations to remain quiet.
The Troops here are fairly worn out with constant scouting on the frontier but with their best efforts they cannot prevent the Enemy from driving off the Inhabitants.
The Shoes sent up by the Cloathier Genl are worn out by a scout in the course of a week and Deerskins are held exceeding high I sincerely wish a deputy cloathier was appointed for this Department.
I beg your Excellencies leave to make one more observation, from experience I believe it to be much easier to protect the Inhabitants by carrying the war into the Indian Country with one thousand Men than with three times that Number stationed at different Forts or even ranging on the frontiers.
I sincerely wish that my remarks which proceed from a hearty desire to afford you every Assistance in my power may not offend, if they should, a single word will be a sufficient rebuke. With every mark of the greatest regard & esteem I have the Honor to be your Excellencies most obedt & Humble Servt
Daniel Brodhead


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 6 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 6: 79:

I inclose you a representation in favour of Capt. Lunt, which is expressed in such strong terms and sanctionned by the names of so many respectable officers, as to deserve particular attention. His case seems to be singularly hard; but at this distance without an opportunity of inquiring circumstantially into the affair, I cannot undertake to make a different arrangement from that which has already been made. This induces me to refer the matter to you as you are on the Spot and to request your assistance. You will be pleased to inquire particularly into the reasons that occasioned his being left out; and if there has been any mistake, or any thing which distinguishes his case from that of many other good officers, who have necessarily become supernumerary, and he can be readmitted into the corps with the rank he was intitled to, without giving discontent to the other officers, or occasioning a greater inconvenience on one hand than is avoided on the other, I shall be very glad to have it in my power to do him justice. As it is inconvenient and injurious to the service to leave a corps in a state of uncertainty as to its own situation; I wish this affair to be put upon some explicit and decided footing before it returns to me, that I may be enabled to have the arrangement finally determined in a satisfactory manner. If Capt. Lunt is reintroduced I shall be obliged to you to forw⟨ard⟩ me a new and accurate arrangement of the corps as it will then stand; I mean the corps commanded by Col. Jackson. I am Sir Your most Obedt servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 6 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Sir
Head Qrs Middlebrook 6 May 1779.

The first Jersey Regt is under marching orders, and it is pro[ba]ble will move on this route the day after to-morrow. Gen: Maxwell writes me “we have not got our portmanteaux nor waggons—Our tents are not taken out of the Store at Morristown for want of waggons.” This respects the whole.
I have thought it best to give you this notice, that there may be no delay on the above account, as the whole brigade is under marching orders. I am sir your most hble servt
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Henry Knox, 6 May 1779
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
Park Artillery [Pluckemin, N.J.] 6th May 1779

I mention’d to your Excellency a few days ago that I suspected That the Enemy had some Agents among the Country people who enticed the soldiers to desert, and assisted them in getting to the Enemy. We had eight who deserted in a body, and altho the pursuit was quick, diligent & Extensive we could get no intelligence of them, in the first instance, altho’ by the hue & Cry rais’d, they were some days afterwards taken by some well affected Inhabitants near Staten Island. Upon their return they were interrogated separately and together, with respect to the assistance they received in their progress towards the blazing Star, but without any effect.
Yesterday they were brought to tryal, and the Interrogations repeated in the same manner as before, all but one kept the oath of Secresy which they had taken to one another ⟨and⟩ he happens to be the greatest Scound[r]el amongst them, having once deserted from the Enemy, enlisted into our Service, deserted back to them, and taken on their Uniform last Year near White plains, for which he was punish’d with one hundred lashes at Fredericksburg. he is a very Knowing artful, yet, in this instance, a Candid fellow. he informd Capt. Daughty Judge advocate of the persons who assisted and secreted them for 6 or 7 days during the pursuit. These persons forming a chain from Camp to Staten Island. upon my return last Evening Capt. Daughty inform’d me of these circumstances. I immediately order’d a party of Officers and Sergeants on Horseback to apprehend them. They have taken the person whose house made the first post of communication, and have gone on to the others, the last of which is near the blazing Star. I have no doubt that they will bring them all in by night. The first man who is under confinement here confesses he piloted them twelve miles, and that he assisted in secreting & ⟨feeding⟩ them near Quibble Town for two or three days but says they forc’d him to do it—he knew of the parties who were in pursuit and inform’d the deserters. he return’d to his home which is not more than 3 miles from the Park on the 2d or 3d Day, yet never gave the least hint of the Deserters having oblig’d him to pilot them, altho he saw some of the parties who were in search of them. From Every circumstance he appears to be one of the party who have repeatedly & constantly assisted our Soldiers in their desertion. It will be of the utmost importance to the Campaign that a dreadful Example be made of these men such as will sufficiently deter others from the like practices. how this is to be done whether by a Civil, or military Court I am ignorant. I beg your Excellency’s directions in what manner I shall proceed. I am with the utmost Respect & Affection Your Very Hble Ser⟨vt⟩
H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 6 May 1779
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Elizth Town [N.J.] 6th May 1779

Since I wrote to your Excellency yesterday I found some difficulty in geting the Tents &ca. I have now wrote to General Green giving him a full account of our sittuation and beg’d that he would wait on your Excellency and know what part of our movements and destination you thought proper to communicate to him; that when I received any future Orders from you to move the whole, or any part of the Brigade he would then have every requisite for that purpose, in readyness. I have sent this by my Brigad Quarter Master. I have nothing now to day and am Your Excellencys Most Obedt Humble Servant
Wm Maxwell


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 6 May 1779
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Elizth Town [N.J.] 6th May 1779 past 10 oclock

Since I wrote you this morning I am Just informed by Coll Ogden that the Officers of the first Regiment have delivered him a Remonstrance to our Legislature with their Commissions, informing them, that if they have not some immediate redress with respect to their pay and support, they will look on themselves as out of the service at the expiration of three days. They will however put the Regt in the most proper order for Marching or take care of it, till the State has reasonable time to supply other Officers. This is a step they are extreamly unwilling to take but it is such as I make no doubt they will all take; nothing but the necessity of their not being able to support themselves in time to come and being loaded with debts the time pas, could have indused them to resign at so critical a time when their Country so much wants their service. They beg’d the Coll to make it known to those conserned that they had not taken this step through any design of Caball or disafection as they had not desired or wished an Officer of a Nother Regt to Joyn with them, that they would have come to this resolution long before now but their unwillingness to leave the Service, they so much respected and that their former applications with those lately made to their Legislature they thought would have drawn their atension to their distresse. They say the Cloathier for this state has informed them that the Assembly has given him Orders to purchase to the Value of 150 pounds worth of Cloathing for each Officer which they say will not do much more than get them a Coat.
Coll Ogden is going off to the Assembly to lay the affair before them and expects to be back in the three days. I have in haste endavoured to convey the substance of what Coll Ogden informed me, to your Excellency and Am Your Most Obedt Humble Servant
Wm Maxwell


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 6 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dear sir
Head Quarters Middlebrook 6th May 1779.

Upon receipt of this you will be pleased to give directions, that the regiment of General Poor’s brigade which was ordered to march to Eastown, in my letter of the 3d instant, be paid up to the 1st of April, previous to its departure.
But in case there should be no money in the chest, I would not have the regiment delayed any time in waiting for it. A supply will set out from this place to-morrow.
It will be necessary, however to furnish the regiment with two pair of overalls per man and if there should be any deficiencies in their shoes and shirts to have them completed. You will take immediate measures for this purpose. I am D. Sir Your most hble sert
Go: Washington
P.S. that I may know the quantity remaining in store after this deduction—you will send me a return of what the regiment draws.


Title: To George Washington from George Measam, 6 May 1779
From: Measam, George
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Boston May 6th 1779

On the 1st Instant I did myself the Honor to write your Excellency, in which and my preceeding Letters I have regularly kept you advised what number of Articles of Cloathing I had set off from the several Agents, and were prepared to set off—And that I was fearfull of delays in the Quartermasters Department particularly at springfield, from whence my Asst writes me the 3d Instant that altho’ Col. Smith the Qr Mr there had wrote for Cash in time, and has again wrote by a special messinger for it, there were great quantities of them delay’d and could not be moved for want of cash. After my exertions prevailing on the Agents to make up such as I judged must be wanted, and that was pressed upon them because they were without orders from the Board of War it is grivous to me to be thus delayed by the missmanagement or missfortune in the Quartermaster’s Department—fearing the delay may be of ill consequence I think it my duty to acquaint your Excellency of it. I have the Honor to be in haste Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient and Most Humble Servt
Geo. Measam

P.S. The Qr Master here complains that his cash is almost all gone already, and that it is impossible to supply the terms so fast as I want them I purpose setting of for Springfield in a few days, but am loath to leave the Cloathg behind me that are now ready but I fear I must.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 6 May 1779
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

Dr Genl
Redding [Conn.] 6th May 1779

by the inclosd Copy of a Letter from Mr Hubbard your Excellency will be able to form a Judgment of the Embarasments in the Way of my Brigade’s marching so early as I could wish.
This is no Neglect of mine: on the 23d of April the Day I received your Excellencys Letters of the 17th & 19th I sent to Mr Hubbard desiring him to send in the Horses and Teams belonging to the Brigade and forward the Tents &c. by the 10th of May. On the 25th I recd yours of the 23d and immediately sent to him to forward the Horses Tents &c. without the least Delay. On the 2d of May I recd the Order of the 28th of April and sent another Letter by Express to Mr Hubbard to which the inclosd is an Answer.
My Men are ready to march, and I hear the Horses &c. are on the Road; when they arrive I will march the Brigade but they cannot march with their Baggage & Artillery according to your Excellency’s Order before that Time.
I am much concerned that it was not in my Power to yeild a literal Obediance to the Order of the 28th of Apl immediately on Receit of the Order; I was ever attentive in complying with the Letter & Spirit of every Order I receivd without Hesitation or Delay, in this Case I am not the faulty Cause if there’s a greater Delay than was expected; I cannot be answerable for the Conduct of other Departments in the Army; but I am sure Genl Green and Mr Hubbard are able to Satisfy your Excellency that any want of Preparation in their Department is more a Misfortune than a Fault.
I shall march my Brigade to Peekskill to releive Genl Huntingtons in a very few Days and hope to receive there the Necessaries to enable us to take the Field.
I have receivd your Excellency’s Letter of the 1st Inst. but do not find Cpt. Mattocks Commission said to be inclosd.
The Enemy march to Day from the East to the west End of Long Island. the Fort on Laurel Hill goes on with Dispatch. a Report prevails that the Troops on Long Island are soon to move to Kingsbridge. I am with Respect & Esteem yr Excellency’s Obedt Servt
Saml H. Parsons


Title: To George Washington from Nicholas Rogers, 6 May 1779
From: Rogers, Nicholas
To: Washington, George

My much Honoured General
Baltimore Town [Md.] May 6th 1779

Tho conscious of the necessity of my apologizing for being too dilatory in a performance which I have undertaken with so much pleasure, am still sorry to confess, I have no better apology to offer than assuring my General how sensible I am of my inattention, & how sincerely I wish it otherwise.

I would by no means be so unpolite as to disapprove of the present modes; yet my fancy has led me two hundred years back in search of a dress for Mrs Washington, which I think equally becoming, and as it is a perfect novelty to this age, I have given it the preference, and I flatter myself your Excellency will be pleased with it. Queen Elizabeth, and Mary of Scotland as well as I can recollect from their Pictures (for this is done but from a recollection) made a distinguished appearance in the Ruff and Hood.
I am afraid I have not been so happy in the likeness as I was in yours, and indeed the dress being so materially different from what I copied, that the greatest allowances must be made, before you can be reconciled to it; besides my Talents have been rather cramp’d in being obliged to reduce it to a ring Size, which I hope you will not think too large, as I have wore it these few days past in a Ring of my own with a roman setting, which is by no means of an immoderate or improper Size for a Gentleman.
My politest Compliments to Mrs Washington, and permit me to assure you that I am with the greatest respect & Sincerity Your Excellency’s most Obedient most humble Sert
Nicholas Rogers


Title: To George Washington from the Virginia Delegates, 6 May 1779
From: Virginia Delegates
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia May the 6th 1779

The inclosed letter being referred by Congress to the Virginia Delegates we have judged it proper to request of you that you will be pleased to assist us with your advice upon the occasion.
We see this business involved in circumstances of such a nature as to create much difficulty and embarrassment. On the one side is presented Colo. Spotswoods merit as an Officer, his seniority of service, the peculiar situation under which he resigned, and that resignation not accepted by Congress—On the other hand we see a probable discontent in the army, arguments drawn from his resignation, and the measures consequent thereupon such as the Office he held being filled by another, and the new arrangement having passed him by unnoticed.
In this state of things we are puzzled to know what report to make. We could wish earnestly to do justice to Colo. Spotswoods merit and his claims, whilst in doing so, we are unable to foresee the consequent ill effects that may be produced by it in the army from dissatisfied ideas of injured rank. Whether an adequate provision may not be made for him from the circumstance of the new Levies of Virginia (going Southward) which will amount to about 2000 men, we cannot be certain.
We have understood from Colo. Spotswood that when that service was over, if any rank given him there should create dissatisfaction in the army, that he would be willing to resign, after having had that opportunity of distinguishing his zeal for the service of his country. But how this can be done, unless by his being created a Brigadier is the question, and what effect this may have on the arrangement and in the sentiments of the army we are greatly at a loss to judge. We wish exceedingly to be favored with your sentiments on this subject, for which we shall be much obliged. We have the honor to be with very particular esteem and regard Sir your most obedient and most humble servants

Meriwether Smith
Richard Henry Lee
Cyrus Griffin
Wm Fleming


Title: General Orders, 7 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Friday May 7th 1779.
Parole Deptford—C. Signs Dundee. Duren.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Benedict Arnold, 7 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

Dear Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 7th 1779

I have the pleasure to inform you that the time of your trial is now finally fixed on the first day of June. If something very extraordinary does not intervene to prevent it, it will certainly come on then; as I am truly desirous that it may have as speedy a decision, as a regard to propriety will permit. I am Dr Sir with much esteem your most Obedt servant
G.W.


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 7 May 1779
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [Philadelphia] May 7. 1779.

For some time after the corps of artificers & Coren’s company of artillery for the laboratory were raised by Colonel Flower, pursuant to your Excellency’s orders, there was a good agreement between them: but at length the officers of artillery (themselves artificers) affected to despise the other officers, to whom the stile of artificers was annexed; and obeyed with reluctance the orders of Colo. Flower: and in this they have been justified by the sentence of a general court martial, to the manifest prejudice of the service. It appears to the board, that for the purpose of preserving good order & discipline, & carrying on the public works with regularity & vigour, it is very necessary the company of artillery at the laboratory should be subject, in every part of duty, to the command of the commissary general of military stores: that for this end, in order to prevent any cavils about his right to command, it would be convenient were he clearly vested with the rank of an officer in the artillery. Colo. Flower, the present commissary general, has on other grounds, as he conceives, well founded pretensions to rank therein, which he says he shall now lay before your Excellency; this seeming the most proper time to state his claims, when a general arrangement of rank in the army was forming.
Of Colo. Flower’s conduct in the field, as well as of any assurances in regard to rank made him in January 1777, when he received the appointment of commissary general of military stores & orders to raise the corps of artificers & Coren’s company of artillery, your Excellency must be better informed than this board: But as the head of the department of military stores we can with truth assure your Excellency that he has great merit; having executed the duties thereof with judgment, fidelity, and the most indefatigable industry.
Should it be your Excellency’s opinion that Colo. Flower’s claim is inadmissible; yet we think it indispensibly necessary that the company of artillery employed at the laboratory should be subject to his direction, not only in regard to the mere business of the laboratory, but in every part of regimental duty, without which great inconveniencies and disorders will ensue. Perhaps it may be best that the company of artillery at the laboratory should be put on the same footing with the companies of artificers: for there appears no prospect that this company will be relieved by one from the field: or if it should, it seems equally proper that the latter, during its residence at the laboratory, should be subject to all regimental orders of the corps of artificers; and that the officers should sit together on Courts Martial, without which, in some cases, no court can be formed & offenders may go unpunished.
Some regulation on this head is wanted extremely; and as the department was originally established under your Excellency’s direction, we beg the favour of your sentiments on the subject, that as soon as may be we may report a plan to Congress. We have the honour to be, with the greatest respect, your obedient servants
By order of the boardTim: Pickering.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 7 May 1779
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Sir
Providence [R.I.] 7th May 1779.

I am sorry to be Obliged to acquaint Your Excellency with the great Distress of the public Af⟨fairs⟩ in this Department; First for want of Bread, & next for want of Money to pay the Troops, who have now more than Six Months Arrears due to them. The Arrival of some Flour lately has relieved us in a degree from the Complaints occasion’d by the total want of that article, but not before three dangerous Mutinies had broke out, occasion’d by the Deficiencies here mentioned. These have happily been Suppress’d; but I dread the Consequence, should a Fourth take place for the want of Money, The Troops having become Clamarous for Their pay—a few days ago I dispatch’d the D.P.M. General from hence, with Orders not to Return without The Money; as yet, I have no Tidings of That, or Him, I beg Your Excellency will Instantly forward the inclosed packet to Congress. I will not by my Silence become responsible for Misfortunes that do not Originate From my neglect to exercise the powers of my Command. I am Sir Your Excellencys most Obedient Servant
Horatio Gates
P.S. I entreat Your Excellencys immedia⟨te⟩ Direction in regard to the inclosed Letter from Commissary Waterman, and the papers herein contain’d; The Same Money demanded, is more than the ammount of the Soldiers daily pay. By This, I do not mean to blame Gen. Sullivans proceedings. I only want to be Justifyed as to my Own.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Christopher Greene, 7 May 1779
From: Greene, Christopher
To: Washington, George

Sir,
East Greenwich [R.I.] 7th May 1779

Having been Informed that Congress has Submited The Approving, or disapproving of the Arraingements of Regiments, to your Excellency; This Information (as the Arraingement of my Regiment has not been Established) causes me to take the freedom of Inclosing Such an Arraingement, as I wish to take place. Should it meet with your Approbation it wou’d be very pleasing to the Officers to know it, as soon as your Excellency Shall find it convenient. The Arraingement will Shew, that the Vacancies have been for a considerable Time. The Officers are some what dissatisfied at not having the promotions, they think themselves justly Intitled to. A Similar Arraingement to this, has been sent to the War Office, and no return has come to hand. An Arrangement was presented to the Committee at Valley Forge, different in Some Instances from this, but never was Established, and I wish it might not be; as neither of the Field Officer were consulted, they not being present at the Time. not recommended, and Resignations, makes This Agreeable to a Resolve of Congress for Settling the Arraingement of the Army.
Captain Arnold of my Regiment, had the Misfortune to Loose a leg, in the Action at Monmouth, which has rendered him unfit for Duty in the Regiment. If it should be your Excellencies pleasure, and Otherways consistant, I wish he might be permited to fall into such business as may Offer, and be considered as not belonging to the Regiment, with pay Rations, and other advantages the same as if in the Regiment. He has been an excellent good Officer. A Desire to reward merit may have led me to Ask what cant with justice be granted. I am with the Greatest Respect your Excellencies most Obedient Humle Servt
Christr Greene