Title: To George Washington from John Cadwalader, 5 June 1781
From: Cadwalader, John
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Anapolis 5th June 1781

                        As Capt: Fitzhugh goes immediatly to Head Quarters, I cannot omit so good an opportunity of acknowledging the
                            receipt of your Letter dated about three months since, & thanking you for the sentiments of esteem you so warmly
                            express towards me.
                        It is unnecessary to repeat the information relating to the movements of the Enemy in Virginia; as you must
                            be acquainted with every particular in an official way.
                        You know so much better than I do the causes of those misfortunes which have reduced us to our present
                            deplorable Situation, that I shall not give you the pain which a recital of ill-judged measures must occasion. I wish past
                            Errors may teach us wisdom in conducting our future opperations. The Idea entertained by most people, that the war was
                            near a close, after the Treaty was concluded with France, has excluded every proposal for establishing System &
                            continued those temporary expedients which were introduced at the commencement of the war, & which have brought us
                            to the brink of ruin. To recover the lost confidence of the people is certainly the first Step to be taken & this
                            cannot be done by mere declarations of the Legislature—we must give every proof in our power of our future honest intentions, acts of violence may procure
                            Cloathing & Provisions for the Army—but these are not sufficient to prevent discontent & a general
                            Mutiny—we must find money to pay our Troops, & this cannot be obtained by any other means, than such as tend to
                            restore public c=Credit—and how to effect this, the wisest men among us are at a loss to determine. We certainly have the
                            means in our possession; but the difficulty is, to draw them forth—A Committee of the whole house had these great points
                            under consideration for several days; & after seting in silence for hours without any one venturing to suggest a
                            remedy, we resolved to submit them to a committee of both Houses—with them the matter rests. We have however, passed a Law
                            for the seizure of Cloathing & provisions, & six hundred horses, for the army. We have resolved, to raise
                            immediately 750 negroes, to be incorporated with the other Troops, & a Bill is now almost compleated.
                        The people, from every information, are generally disposed to act with spirit; but the means of extensive
                            opposition is not in our power, for want of Arms—& I fear the measures taken to provide fixed ammunition will not
                            afford us a timely & necessary Supply after carrying on a war for six years we might reasonably expect that affairs
                            would be conducted with some degree of method—but we have derived no advantages from so much experience.
                        That the Enemy intend to make the southern States the scene of action the ensuing campaign is past a doubt;
                            & the consequences are easily for foreseen, unless considerable Reinforcements very soon arrive; either from France or the northern Army. But with them I see no prospect of doing any
                            thing to effect whilst the enemy have the command of the navigation. You know so well the difficulties I allude to; that
                            ’tis unnecessary to recite them. The possession of these States must be of the last importance to the Enemy; because, in
                            these they possess the tobacco, Rice, Indigo & naval-stores—which, to them, perhaps are more valuable than all the
                            other States together. These, too, are separated, by a great natural Line, from the other States; & it appears to
                            me more than probable, considering all circumstances, that G. Britain finds it impracticable to
                            possess themselves of all America & are now preparing to conquer these States in hopes
                            that the powers of Europe, by their interposition, will secure them to her—You, however, can best determine where your
                            presence is most necessary, nor do I presume to advise, being satisfied, that whatever you determine upon, will best
                            promote the public service. But permit me, Sir, to express, that my wishes & the wishes of every person with whom
                            I converse are, that you may think it necessary to take the command of the southern Army. Your presence, we conceive, may
                            create an unanimity & vigour that will relieve us from the dangers that threaten us, & that must otherwise
                            overwhelm us.
                        I have made a tender of my services to the executive; but, whether they favor me with a command, or not, I
                            shall not remain a distant spectator. I have the honor to be, with the greatest esteem, your Excellency’s most obt
                            & very hble Servt

                            John Cadwalader


Title: From George Washington to James Clinton, 5 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor June 5. 1781

                        In my Letter of the 28 Ulto I informed you of the succour you might expect, if necessary. The five Companies
                            of Van Schaicks Regt have since sailed—Hazens will follow tommorow. I have now to communicate my sentiments in general
                            respecting the disposition, and application of this force.
                        It is clearly my opinion, that the reinforcements lately ordered to the Northward should be kept together, as
                            much as circumstances will admit, or at least so near as to be speedily assembled upon an emergency—As it is not certain,
                            or probable they will be continued permanently in that quarter; and as they are designed while there, to strike the Enemy,
                            should they be so presumptuous as to attempt to penetrate into the Country. It also appears to me that the force on the
                            Hudson & Mowhawk Rivers, ought not to be so widely scattered as formerly, but stationed in as compact a manner as
                            may be, except such Light Parties, as occasion may require to be kept out—By distributing the Troops, with a view, of
                            protecting every inch of ground, the efficient force is dissipated and lost, and the several Posts are so weakened as to
                            invite the Enemy to enterprise. I wish you therefore to concentrate your strength as much as possible at the Points you
                            may judge most expedient; to form a plan of defence for the frontier; and to transmit to me the result of your
                            determination. I am Dear Sir With very great regard & esteem Your Most Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 5 June 1781
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            West Point 5th June 1781

                        The inclosed Returns of the Provision Endowments of each Work would have been sent your Excellency yesterday
                            had I not hoped for the Honor of seeing you—The Quantity is too small, but our Magazine will not admit of a farther
                            supply at present—The Moment it can be done, it shall.
                        I have examin’d the Magazine & the Ammunition is much expos’d to Injury—I am sorry to add that our
                            Work is at a Stand for Want of Nails or Iron shods to make them—I have written to Col. Pickering in the most pressing
                            terms upon the Occasion, & would be glad if your Excellency would also speak to him—Tho’ I doubt not his every
                            possible Exertion. I am Dear sir with the greatest Respect your Excellency’s most obedient servant

                            Robert Howe


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 5 June 1781
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            War Office June 5 1781

                        The enclosed Letters are transmitted for your Excellency’s Information. We are endeavouring to get a further
                            Supply of Arms for the Southern States, but their Numbers will depend upon our Supplies of Money to repair them. We have
                            the Honour to be with the highest Respect your very obed Servants

                            Richard Peters By Order

                     Enclosure

                                Copy of a letter from Governor Jefferson to the President of Congress dated Charlottesville
                                    Va. May 28 1781Sir,
                                    28 May 1781

                            I make no doubt you will have heard before this shall have the Honour of being presented to your
                                Excellency of the junction of Lord Cornwallis with the force at Petersburg under Arnold who had succeeded to the
                                Command on the death of Major General Philips. I am now advised that they have evacuated Petersburg joined at Westover
                                a Reinforcement of 2000 Men just arrived from New York, crossed James’s River on the 26 Instant were three miles
                                advanced on their Way towards Richmond at which place Major General the Marquis Fayette lay with 3000 non regulars and
                                Militia that being the whole number we could arm till the Arrival of the 1100 Arms from Rhode Island which are about
                                this time getting to the place where our public Stores are deposited. the whole force of the Enemy within this
                                State from the best intelligence I have been able to get I think is about 7000 Men Infantry and Cavalry including also
                                the small Garrison left at Portsmouth. A Number of privateers and small Vessells which are constantly ravaging the
                                Shores of our Rivers prevent us from receiving any Aid from the Counties lying on navigable Waters and the very
                                powerful operation preparing by a joint force of British and Indian Savages on our frontier oblige us to embody an
                                Army there of between two and three thousand Men. these facts with those which I have heretofore been constrained to
                                trouble your Excellency with will enable Congress to form a proper Judgment of the Situation of this State and to
                                adopt such measures for its Aid as its Circumstances may require and their powers effect. I have the Honor to be
                                &c.

                                Signed Thos. Jefferson

                     Enclosure

                                Extract of a letter from Governor Lee to the Honble the Delegates in Congress dated Annapolis
                                    Md. in Council 30th May 1781. referr’d to the Board of War.Gentlemen,
                                    30 May 1781

                            The extraordinary exertions made by this State on every occasion in complying with the demands of
                                Congress, The Marquis’s Detachment, the Southern Army, our Militia and other expenditures, have altogether exhausted
                                our treasury and Stores of Arms and Clothing, so that we have it not in our power to furnish the Troops that are here,
                                with Clothing, Arms &c. nor properly equip our Militia to repel the Enemy.
                            Under these distressing circumstances we request you to make known our wants, to Congress in the most
                                earnest manner and endeavour to obtain a proportion of all Clothing Arms &c. that Congress now, or hereafter
                                may have, for this State. We do not think that the rampart pieces will be of any great use to us, however we will take
                                two hundred of them for our Gallies, and with pleasure receive the two field pieces, and as many more as can be spared
                                to us as we are in great necessity for them.

                                (signed) Thos Lee

                     Enclosure

                                (Copy of a Letter to the Delegates of Maryland in Congress)
                                Gentlemen
                                Anapolis June 1st 1781

                            The General Assembly and the Governor & Council have wrote you several Letters within these two
                                Days, and requested you to inform Congress of the Movements of Lord Cornwallis, and to urge them in the most pressing
                                manner to order all the Force, which can possibly be spared, to march immediately to the assistance of the Marquis de
                                Lafayette. We are informed by Letter from Alexandria, dated yesterday Afternoon, that the Enemy, from their last
                                Information, were at Pages Warehouses; and that the Marquis would be in Fredericksburgh last Evening; it is the
                                general opinion in Virginia, that the object of the Enemy is Alexandria; where it is supposed Genl Leslie is to meet
                                them and thence to Baltimore. Our Brethren in Virginia are very desirous of defending thier Country, but in the most
                                distressed Situation for the want of Arms. at George Town there is a very considerable Quantity of Flour, which we
                                doubt cannot be removed in Time.
                            We wish you would communicate the Intelligence you receive to his Excellency Genl Washington, whose
                                Presence with a Body of Regulars, would effectually stop the Progress of the Enemy. We desire you to wait on his
                                Excellency the President & the Council of Pennsylvania, and communicate to them the several Letters received
                                from us, or our Executive, and request them to order One Thousand of the Militia to our assistance as we are
                                apprehensive the stand must be made on the North Side of Potomack. The Destruction of the grain in Virginia
                                & this State will be a very considerable Object with the Enemy and may be effected by their marching thro’ the
                                Country, or by the calling the greater part of our Farmers into the Field. We are—Genl &c. yr &c.

                                (Signed) Geo. Plater Prest of the Senate
                                W. Bruff Spkr Ho. Dels.


Title: General Orders, 6 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters New Windsor Wednesday June 6th 1781
                        ParoleCountersigns.The Quarter master General is immediately to take measures for drawing together as many Tents and other Camp
                            equipage as will be sufficient to encamp the whole army. He will report to the Commander in Chief when he is ready to make
                            a General delivery that orders may be given accordingly.
                        The Arrangement of the Corps of Engineers and of Sappers and Miners not having been completed when the
                            regulations for the new Formation of the army were published in General orders on the first of November last is the reason
                            why those corps were not included at that time or mentioned in the rules of promotion published yesterday. But the
                            Honorable the Congress having by their Resolve of the 14th of November last declared that the above mentioned Corps are to be
                            put on an equal establishment with those of other lines the officers belonging to them are to be considered on an equal
                            footing in their respective ranks with those of Artillery Infantry and Cavalry and are to be respected accordingly.
                        The Regimental Clothiers of the New Hampshire Massachusetts Rhode Island and Connecticut lines are called
                            upon to deliver at the Adjutant General’s office by the 15th instant accurate returns of the Cloathing drawn and delivered
                            by them to their respective regiments for the present year. The regimental Clothiers of the New York and New Jersey lines
                            and Hazen’s regiment will make similar returns within the present month.
                        Brigadier General Du Portails guard to be immediately augmented to a Serjeant Corporal and twelve men.
                        The Adjutant General will tomorrow morning superintend the exercising such of the troops of the Massachusetts
                            line as can be drawn and for that purpose,. He requests they may be on the Grand Parade at West Point by seven ô clock; the
                            recruits formed into squads greater or smaller agreeable to the proficiency they have made in discipline.


Title: From George Washington to Edward Antill, 6 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Antill, Edward

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor June 6th 1781

                        You will proceed immediately with Col. Hazen’s Regt to Albany, and put yourself under the Orders of Brigadr
                            Genl Clinton. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servt.

                            P.S. Be pleased to deliver to Genl Clinton, the Letter forwarded herewith.


Title: From George Washington to Board of War, 6 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

                            GentlemenHead Quarters New Windsor 6th June 1781

                        I was yesterday honored with your favor of the 25th ulto. Your first and second reasons for removing the
                            Convention troops from their present places of confinement are unobjectionable; but I think they will be equally safe in
                            Pennsylvania as they would be in Massachusetts, and, all circumstances considered, I am opinion that they had best be
                            halted for the present in that State. The Board having been good enough to take my advice upon the Subject I will give my
                            reasons for preferring them remaining in Pennsylvania to going further Northward. The first is, the accumulation of
                            expence, trouble and danger of escape by lengthening the march. The second the impossibility of supplying them with Bread
                            in N. England by land transportation, and the inconveniency and expence of doing it by water, even should we procure
                            passports from the British Commander in Chief. The third and a very essential one is, that in our expected operation in
                            this quarter all the Beef which the Eastern States will be able to procure will be necessary for the subsistince of the
                            French and American Armies, and therefore no additional consumption, if it can possibly be avoided, ought to be imposed
                            upon the Magazines which we are endeavouring to establish. Pennsylvania has furnished a very inconsiderable part of the
                            meat or flour required of her by the Resolves of the 4th Novermber last and may upon that account with more propriety be
                            called upon to support the Prisoners, but independant of that part of her supplies lacking the general plan of Campaign
                            into contemplation, may with less inconvenience be applied to the purpose I have mentioned than those more northerly or
                            southerly.


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 6 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 6th June 1781.

                        I have been honored with your Excellencys favors of the 28h May, with their several inclosures. I have
                            written to the board of War on the subject of the removal of the Convention troops, and have given it as my opinion, with my
                            reasons, that they had best, for the present, be halted in Pennsylvania. An exchange of those troops, upon proper terms,
                            would certainly be a desirable thing, but, under present circumstances, I do not think it would be advisable to give the
                            enemy any reinforcement of privates. Every Man they get adds immediately to their force—many of those whom we obtain in
                            exchange are out of their term of service, and consequently lost to us.
                        It is as much my wish as it can be Your Excellency’s that General Gates’s affair should be brought to a
                            decision. You must be convinced that nothing has been left undone by me to effect that purpose. General Gates informs me,
                            that he cannot think of serving untill the matter shall have been properly investigated, and that he shall retire in the
                            mean time to Virginia. I see no probability of any thing further being done untill there shall be some recess in southern
                            operations.
                        I hope the Rules of promotion, which Congress have been pleased to establish, will be generally satisfactory.
                            Individuals may be affected by the change of mode, but it will be impossible to devise a plan which will not interfere in
                            some degree with particular interests.
                        I send your Excellency by this Conveyance duplicate of my letter of the 30th of May. The original was taken
                            in last Weeks Mail. The communication by the post from hence to Philada has become so dangerous, that I cannot, in future,
                            trust any dispatches of import by him, and I beg you will observe the same Rule. The parties which are sent out know the
                            exact time at which he may be expected and cannot fail of securing him. They have not the same opportunity of intercepting
                            Expresses, as the times of riding are uncertain. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect yr Excellency’s Most obt
                            Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 6 June 1781
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia June 6. 1781

                        A Resolve of Congress of the 2d Instant relative to the Bills emitted in Pursuance of the Act of the 10th of
                            March 1780 is herewith enclosed for the Information of your Excellency.
                        By sunday Prisoners from Charles Town who are exchanged & just arrived at this Port in a Flag, we
                            have received Information which seems not to admit a Doubt, that Lord Raudon had evacuated Camden and retreated to Charles
                            town with his Troops, and was pursued by General Greene. ’Tis also reported that on his Retreat he was attacked by General
                            Greene with considerable Success, but this latter Report wants further Confirmation.
                        From various Accounts it seems highly probable the Enemy have evacuated or lost all their inland Posts. It is
                            said our People are in Possession of ninety six, Augusta and some other Posts nearer Charles town, but we have no Advices
                            from General Greene later than those already communicated to your Excellency. I have the Honor to be, with the greatest
                            Regard Your Excellency’s Most obedient & most humble Servant

                            Sam. Huntington President


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 6 June 1781
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia June 6. 1781

                        I am requested by the Delegates from Pennsylvania to transmit your Excellency the Papers inclosed, containing
                            Petitions, Complaints &c. against Colonel Broadhead—I have the Honor to be with the highest Respect Your
                            Excellency’s Most obedient & most humble Servant

                            Sam. Huntington

                     Enclosure

                                    c.9 May 1781

                            To his Excellency The President and Supreme executive Council of the State of Pennsylvania.
                            The representation and Memorial of the Inhabitants of the Town of Pittsburgh, humbly Sheweth
                            That we are greatly alarmed with the Claim of Colo. Brodhead Commanding officer at the Garrison of Fort
                                Pitt, assuming authority to Exercise Military power over this Town, which he conceives he has a Right to do within the
                                round of his Patrols, In many cases he has actually exercised this authority taking away the property, confining the
                                Persons of the Citizens, and ordering them to be tryed by a Court Martial. We know well that the laws and
                                Constitutions of our Country have fixed a procise boundary to the Military power. It is limited to those who are
                                enlisted for the Service and under the Articles of War; it Cannot extend in the least degree to a Citizen. Whether he
                                happens to be within the walls of a Garrison, Within the Cover of the Cannon, Within the round of the Patrols, or at a
                                Thousand Miles distance. The commanding Officer at this place derive no authority from Congress to extend Military Law
                                over the Inhabitants, the Congress are circumscribed by the articles of the Confederation and cannot interfere With
                                the Laws and Internal police of a State; it is not in their Power by any Resolve to take away from one Citizen the
                                right of being protected in his life, liberty and property by the law of his Country; The Congress Not being Possessed
                                of this power cannot communicate it, and therefore no officer acting under them can exercise it. The assembly of the
                                State could not Surrender the people of this Spot to the authority of Military law but by a manifest Violation of the
                                Constitution and bill of rights which have established that no Freeman shall lose his liberty,
                                    but by the law of the land and the Judgement of his peers. The commanding Officer therefore Could not derive
                                any authority from the assembly, and we have not heard of any act by which he can pretend to derive any authority to
                                Exercise Military law over the People of this Country. It cannot be pleaded that by Custom or usage Where a Garrison is
                                placed in a Town, the Inhabitants of that town fall under the Power of the Military, because no Such usage or custom is
                                known to our law and We Will Venture to affirm, to no Municipal law of any Country in Europe, It cannot be Warranted
                                by any law or Custom of Nations, because the laws or Customs of Nations have Nothing to do in the Case.
                            It cannot be intended, that because a British commanding Officer before the Year 1768 possessing in
                                Behalf of the Crown, by a Cession from the Natives, an Exclusive Right to the Soil within Cannon Shot, Exerted
                                Military law over his own troops and the Retainers in the Garrison, that therefore now when the Soil is within the
                                State of Pennsylvania, and civil authority is Established, Military law Should extend itself, and take place over
                                Citizens.
                            It cannot be Said that because the Jurisdiction of the Spot is contended by the State of Pennsylvania and
                                that of Virginia, that therefore Citizens shall be Subject to Military law. Writs from the Courts of Both Commonwealth
                                Run into this Town and Every Individual is amenable to Two Jurisdictions to Answer in cases of Debt, Trespass,
                                &c. or Criminal Offences. It Would be hard therefore, & at the Same time absurd, that this Should be a
                                Reason Why they Should be made liable to a law issuing from a third Source. The Will of a Commanding Officer.
                            Some of us who make this Representation have been Inhabitants of the Town of Pittsburgh many Years, have
                                enjoyed the liberties and immunities of Citizens, have Suffered in our persons, and fortunes for the Jurisdiction of
                                Pennsylvania and all of us have continued for the cause of America, and are Willing to lay down our lives in the field
                                but not to have our Liberty, our property, our lives Suspended on the Will of a Commanding Officer and a Court
                                Martial.
                            Some of us have left our habitations to avoid the Scalping Knife, and Tom hack of the Merciless Savage,
                                and have gaind a Temporary Residence in this Town; We feel it pecularly hard that we Should be Supposed to have lost
                                our Rights to the laws of our Country at the same Time With our Possessions and in removing to a different part of the
                                County of Westmorland to hold our lives at the diseration of Military Power.
                            Having Represented these things, it is our prayer that his Excellency the President, and the Honourable
                                the Council Will lay this Matter Before Congress and induce them to direct his Excellency Genl Washington to Remove
                                Colo. Broadhead, from this Command, and give such Orders to the Succeeding officer at this Post, whoever he may be, as
                                Will Restrain him from Such invasions of the rights of the Citizens. If it Should be Said that this Will be
                                unnecessary as the laws of the Country and the Courts of Justice Will Support every Individual against the
                                Encrochments of Military power. We beg leave to Observe that it is not easy, but gives infinite trouble, it is almost
                                impossible to obtain Redress by law against a Commanding Officer Who can Confine in his Guardhouse from which even the
                                    pope commitatus cannot Set at liberty and who if he pleases to avoid an arrest Can be Secure Within the
                                Cannon of the Fort and Surrounded by his Guards. We are Gentlemen your most obedient and Very humble Servants

                                    John Tewind

                                    James Robinson

                                    John Hamilton

                                    Wm Batt

                                    James Fleming

                                    John Handlyn

                                    Tho. Nichols

                                    Peter Roliter

                                    Wm Amberson

                                    James McLelland

                                    Andw Robertson

                                    D. Moor

                                    Edwd Ward

                                    Tho. Smallman

                                    Daverux Smith

                                    Robert Campbell

                                    John Irwin

                                    A. Fowler

                                    Robert McKinley signed by 7 others

                                c.9 May 1781

                            To His Excellency Joseph Reed Esq’r. and the Honorable the Executive Council of the State of Pennsylvania.
                            The Remonstrance and Petition of the Principal Inhabitants of the County of Westmorland and Town of
                                Pittsburgh; ShewethThat the uncommon Stretches of power uniformly pursued and now adopted, by Colonel Brodhead
                                Commanding in this Department, added to a connection formed with Mr David Duncan the Assistant to the Deputy quarter
                                Master of this State; is so truly alarming, that we trust a bare recital of them will Justify your Petitioners and mark
                                the purity of their motives for this address.
                            1st That the Constitution and Laws; by which all ought to be governed, seems to become inadequate to the
                                governing of one.
                            2d The rights of free Citizens are invaded and property thereby rendered uncertain and precarious.
                            3d That a monopoly in Trade is Created.
                            4th That a Jobbing quarter master is favoured and indulged; and we have great reason to suspect that
                                publick Money is not appropriated to the purposes intended.
                            5th That publick delinquints have been sheltered from punishment; while Innocence and Industry have been
                                oppressed and injured.
                            6th That discipline is neglected and relaxed and no attention whatever paid to the accommodation of the
                                Officers and Soldiers, nor to puting the Garrison into a State of defence; and tho a number of Artificers have been
                                long employed by the assistant Deputy quarter Master at high wages, and a large allowance of provisions, nothing
                                appears to have been done, and the Fort still Continues as well as the Barracks in a ruinous untenable, and unmilitary
                                State.
                            7th That a great number of the Soldiers have been employed in the Quarter Masters Department and still
                                more at Head Quarters, while the protection of the frontiers have been totally neglected.
                            Hence, under the specious pretext of publick good private pursuits are accomplished, some of which we have
                                been informed, your Excellency and the Honorable the Executive Council, are not altogether unacquainted with. Indeed
                                so obvious have these transactions appeared here, not only to the Citizen but the Soldier, that the latter in
                                Conformity to a Resolution formed and Unanimously adopted, when a Committee in 1779 treated Colonel Brodhead’s
                                invitation to dine; with marks of Contempt, while the former was reprobating him in terms of reproach. Thus with arms
                                in our hands, defending our natural rights, your Petitioners unhappily find themselves under a Tyranny far more
                                unsupportable, than that which they have successfully resisted, as the annexed despotick Mandates and Authentick
                                documents will fully verify. But while many of your Petitioners feel the effects of Colonel Brodheads oppressions, and
                                more are alarmed at the terrors suspended over them, we all with Concern anticipate the Consequences; They excite
                                emotions in our Breasts, which tho we cannot describe, it would ill become us to conceal. For Corrupt and depraved as
                                the Country may be, from whence we and our ancesters emigrated, military Tyranny there, is not yet Countinanced; and
                                while such a line of Conduct cannot but distress and alarm your Excellency and Council; We are convinced that it must
                                be reprobated and meet with a hearty, and determined opposition from every virtuous Citizen of the United States,
                                whose Custom it has been, and we hope will be; to make those tremble who dare to attempt to make them miserable.
                                Feeling and thinking like Free Men in the Manner we do, silence would become a Crime; For History as well as
                                observation evinces the truth of this simple position that to live by the will of One
                                entails misery on all. Therefore by giving you this faithfull information we humbly
                                apprehend we are doing barely our duty as good Citizens, by rendering you Excellency and the Honorable the Executive
                                Council all the Assistence in our power, to promote the great objects of your Trust, the Tranquility of Government and
                                the welfare of the Governed.
                            Little did your Petitioners ever imagine that in the Course of a War undertaken in defence of their
                                Common rights, the Character of the Citizen should so soon become sunk in that of the Soldier. The language of
                                Complaint is painfull to us, but as an Illustrious Author observes, "Military Men belong to a profession which may be
                                usefull, but is often dangerous." The truth of this observation is evident. The annals of every nation in Europe afford
                                melancholy examples. Even the American Revolution—Glorious and beneficial to Mankind as it is—Has not terminated
                                without being Shamefully tarnished with such proofs that we cannot even mention without indignation and Horror.
                            Therefore the real and disinterested Friends of Freedom cannot be too tenacious of their rights, too
                                watchful of their privileges, or too Jealous of the Ambitious and Interested who attempts to invade them.
                            Your Petitioners humbly apprehend that their happiness and the security of thier invaluable rights
                                depends in a great measure on thier own exertions and Spirit protect and defend them. For the Political liberty of the
                                Subject says Montisquie, is a Tranquility of mind arrising from the opinion each person has of his safety. And it is
                                with heart felt concern, that we find ourselves bound by the strongest of Obligations to inform your Excellency and
                                the Honorable the Executive Council, that instead of that Tranquility of mind: That safety mentioned by this ornament
                                of mankind, the Author of the Spirit of Laws, There has been unfortunately implanted in our Breasts, doubts, fears,
                                Suspicions and Jealousies, the Natural production of Tyranny and Dispotism. Your Petitioners are well aware of the
                                disadvantagous light in which they may appear, to your Excellency and the Honorable the Executive Council, From the
                                partial Clamour raised here against the Generals, Hand, and McIntosh, and in which Colonel Brodhead himself
                                (respecting the latter) bore a principal Share. But we cannot command success, and there is a vast difference between
                                doing our best to serve our Country and doing all in our power to serve ourselves. And indeed it is generally
                                admitted, that these General Officers had the public Interest warmly at heart, while it is allowed by all that Colonel
                                Brodhead is actuated by motives, selfish and interested, and that his views are totally Confined to Land, Manors, and
                                Millseats. Duty to our Country our Constitution and our Rulers and a regard for our rights Franchises and Immunities
                                has Induced us to address your Excellency and Council in Language which cannot we hope be displeasing, to which we beg
                                leave to implore your attention. And Humbly Pray. That Colonel Brodhead may be removed from the Command of this
                                Department, and Mr David Duncan from the employment of assistant Quarter Master—as well as every other employment
                                wherein he may be intrusted with the Publick Money and that for the benefit of the Publick his accounts may be settled
                                in this Department. That an Officer may be appointed to Command here, who is more active and less Arbitary, and whose
                                ambition and Study would be to afford as protection, promote the Good of this Country, and act in Unison with its
                                Inhabitants. And that a Quarter Master may be appointed—if one may be found absolutely necessary—that has more pride
                                and more principal than to descend to the mean and unwarrantable Task of becoming a Tool in Depeculation by
                                sacrificing his time to create private Jobbs and promote advantagous bargains. It is therefore with a pleasing
                                Confidence that we Anticipate a ready attention to the Prayer of this Petition, and we beg leave to declare that it is
                                not the man, but his Conduct that we arraign. And that had we an oppertunity, Compliment would be more agreeable to
                                your Petitioners than Complaint. And while we thus expose and are determined to oppose the dispotick and designing, we
                                are determined at the same time, to support the virtuous and disinterested by every means in our power. Patriotism
                                will here find Friends and publick Good may depend on being Supported with our lives and fortunes.
                            N.B. The Inclosed List Contains the Names of the Subscribers.
                            Names of the Petitioners
                            Edwd Ward   Tho. Smallman   Devirux Smith   Andrew
                                Robertson   John Gibson  James McLalland   Wm Reddick
                                 John Ferry   James Fleming   Geo. Wallace
                                James Robertson Hugh Gardner   David Kenneday   William Evans
                                  John Reed  James Agnew   William Reed
                                plus 403 more names


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 6 June 1781
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            In Council Philadelphia June 6th 1781

                        We had the honor of your Excellencys favour of the twenty seventh Ult. requesting sixteen hundred Militia of
                            this state. The Congress at the same time made a requisition of four battalions of Infantry consisting of two thousand
                            two hundred and twenty eight rank and file a Company of Artillery, and Corps of sixty four horse for the southern service.
                            A demand has also been made of three hundred Men for the frontiers, we are sorry to inform your Excellency that the
                            present situation of the Militia in pay and equipment forbids an expectation that these requisitions can be complied with
                            untill the House of Assembly shall make a more effectual provision for that source. The present pay is thirty old
                            Continental dollars per day and the fines of delinquents which is the fund of payment is in the same proportion. The
                            Assembly now sitting we have laid your Excellencys letter before them with such farther additional arguments and
                            recommendations as we hope will produce the desired effects. As soon as we are enabled to give your Excellency a more satisfactory answer we shall not fail to do it; in
                            the mean time we beg leave to assure you that we are with the greatest respect and regard Your Excellencys Most obedient
                            and very humble servant

                            Jos: Reed President


Title: General Orders, 7 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters New Windsor Thursday June 7 1781 Parole. Countersigns.

                        Troy Lee a Soldier in the 5th Massacusetts’ regiment tried 5th June 1781 by a General court martial whereof
                            Lieutenant Colonel Badlam was President for "repeated Desertion, changing his name and inlisting into the Hampshire line,"
                            was found Guilty and sentenced to suffer Death.
                        The Commander in Chief approves the Sentence.


Title: From George Washington to Theodorick Bland, 7 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Bland, Theodorick

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor June 7th 1781

                        I have received your favor of the 1st Inst. with the enclosure, this Morning, by the Express who brought the
                            same Act of Congress of the 31st of May, under cover from his Excellency the President.
                        Sensible of the pressing exigencies of the Southern States for succours, I have not hesitated a Moment to
                            order the whole of the seven Battalions of Infantry together with the Corps of Horse and Artillery, which are to be raised
                            in the States of Pennsylvania, Delaware & Maryland, to their aid: I have written to the Governors of those States,
                            to have these Troops forwarded by detachment, to the Head Quarters of our Army in Virginia, & put under the Orders
                            of the General Officer Commanding there—And I cannot doubt the exertions of the States on so great and interesting an
                            occasion.
                        I am only unhappy that it is not in our power to give more immediate & powerful succour at this
                            Moment, and beg you to rest assured I will still attempt to use the means entrusted to me, in the best manner I am able,
                            to expel the Enemy from every part of the United States. With sentiments of the highest regard and esteem I am Dear Sir
                            Your Most Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 7 June 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Roxbury June 7th 1781

                        I am still pursuing the completion of my Commission, by a letter I received the last evening from Rhode
                            Island I am informed that Governor Greene has written your Excellency an answer to your address, the doings of the
                            Assembly and the condition of the provisions and Clothing in that State.
                        This State (Massachusetts) have the business of permanent supplies now under consideration in the General Assembly, their committee have reported a convention of Committees in
                            forming a System for supplying the Army in future; I think that not withstanding the embarassments under which the States
                            labor, they will grant every Thing requested of them. Your requisition for men both for compleating the Battalions and the
                            militia will be complied with. Yesterday afternoon the Continental Frigate Alliance arrived in Boston Harbour from France.
                            The Alliance has taken Six prizes Two sloops of War one of which is copper bottomd Two west Indian men and two
                            privateers. In the engagement with the Sloops of War which were both at the same time and in a Calm Capt. Barry received a
                            wound in the shoulder by a Grape Shot, badly, but not mortally his Capt. of Marines and seven or Eight men killed and
                            near twenty wounded—The Alliance has brought no Clothing, the Clothing was all on board the La Fayette and there is much
                            reason to fear she foundered at Sea in a heavy gale near Six weeks since Some unaccountable fatality seems to attend our
                            obtaining clothing.
                        The last evening Signals were out for a Fleet which is supposed to be French transport with drafts for the
                            Army at Rhode Island, a Brigr arrived the Day before yesterday, The Troops she brought are Germans for the Regiment
                            Deuxponts, it is Said there are twelve or fourteen Transports under convoy of two ships of war the number of troops not
                            very Considerable. your Excellency will have heard before this reaches you of the Arrival of the French Fleet in the West
                            Indies.
                        It is Formidable, these are but Two Ships of 64 Guns, the others are from 74 to 100 Guns, Seventeen of which
                            are copper bottomed.
                        I am anxious to compleat the business on which I have been Sent and to return to the Army. I have the honor
                            to be with the highest respect your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 7 June 1781
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            West Point 7th June 1781

                        Mr Kirkland has requested me (with Earnestness) to apply to your Excellency in behalf of one King a soldier
                            under sentence of Death, as he Relates the mans Case there are Alliviating circumstances in it which may Probably claim
                            attention, beside which he offers another man in the Room of King, to serve out his time if his Inlistment is temporary,
                            or to serve a Year should he be for the War, that he may be absent for that time to assist a Distress’d & aged
                            mother: other particulars Mr Kirkland will himself relate, this much as I said before  his intrcaties
                            & the circumstances he set forth in favour of the man I have been induced sir to trouble your Excellency with,
                            which liberty you will please to Excuse I am Dear sir with the highest Respect your Excellencys most obt hum. servt

                            Robt Howe


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 7 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor June 7th 1781

                        I have been honored with your Excellency’s favors of the 2nd & 3d Inst. I had upon the former
                            complaints exhibited against Colonel Brodhead; and Mr Duncan the Dep. Qr Mastr Genl at Fort Pitt, directed the proper
                            measures to be taken for calling them to an account, and as the Complainants in the present instance, are principally the
                            same as in the first, they will have an opportunity of bringing and supporting their charges before the Courts which have
                            been already ordered.
                        I have written to the Governors of Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware, and have desired them to send the
                            Militia required by the Resolution of the 31st May to Virginia or Maryland as circumstances may require—I must trouble
                            Your Excellency to forward the enclosed to the Executives of those States.
                        Your Excellency’s Circular Letter of the 1st Inst. cannot, I think, but have a happy effect, unless the
                            States are determined—for want of proper energy at the moment when they ought most to exert themselves, to lose those
                            advantages which they have it in their power to secure at the proposed Negociation. A little success on our part will
                            overballance any exorbitant terms or claims, which the partizans of Great Britain may attempt to impose or demand.
                        The intelligence from the West Indies which your Excellency’s has been pleased to communicate is both
                            interesting and agreeable. Could our generous Allies but once obtain a compleat naval superiority, the happiest
                            consequences would undoubtedly insue. I have the honor to be With perfect respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Humble
                            Servt

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. Inclosed is a Return of all the Recruits who have joined this Army from the 1st of January to the
                                1st of June amounting to 2574. A few have joined the York Regiments of Infantry, and perhaps about 60 the Jersey—Your
                                Excellency will be pleased for the information of Congress to call upon the Board of War for the Monthly return of May
                                in which the above are included—And by deducting from that Return the detachment under the Command of the Marquis de
                                la Fayette—The two Regiments of New York and Hazens Regiment now upon the Northern Frontier you will be able to form a
                                judgment of my efficient strength at this place and in Jersey.

                            Go: W——n


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Jones, 7 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Jones, Joseph

                            Dear Sir,
                            New Windsor 7th June 1781

                        Genl Rutledge did me the favor to present me with your letter of the 31st Ulto, & on my return from
                            Weathersfield I met your other favor of the 10th—What with few aids at present, and a multiplicity
                            of business, my time has been so constantly occupied, that It has not been in my power to acknowledge the receipt of the
                            above letters before, & now I must be hasty & indigested in my answers.
                        Hesitate not a moment to believe, that I am prompted by every motive which public duty—inclination—and
                            private interest can dictate to afford every assistance in my power to the distressed States to the Southward—Virginia in
                            particular—but to require Brick with out straw was the complaint of old time—My Letter to Congress of this date, gives
                            you the number of Men which have joined the Army since the first of Jany, under the requisitions of October—and the
                            General return, sent to the Board of War by Genl Rutledge, for the Month of May—in which all those Recruits are included—all the Men composing the detachment of the Marquis la Fayette—the Garrison’s at Wyoming—Albany &ca are also
                            included. In the total of that return—judge you therefore of my ability to afford, at this moment, effectual aid,
                            from the remainder, to the Southward—especially when there are appearances of something serious upon the Northern
                            Frontier of this State, from Canada.
                        It is much the desire of the Govr of Virginia, as appears by his Letter of the 28th Ulto, that I should in
                            person, repair to that State—it is also the expressed wish of many of my friends—and nobody I perswade myself can doubt my
                            inclination to be immediately employed in the defence of that Country where all my property & Connexions are—but
                            there are powerful objections to my leaving this Army, at this time, but neither time, nor prudence,
                            will allow me to go into a detail of them on paper—one only I will name—which is—that no other person has power to
                            command the French Troops which are now about to form a junction with this Army—let it suffice for me to add, that I am
                            acting on the great scale. that temporary evils must be endured where there is no remedy at hand—that I am not without
                            hopes the tables may be turned—but these being contingent, I can promise no more than my utmost exertions—and that I am
                            with great truth & sincerety Dr Sir Yr Most Affecte Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Daniel Carroll, 7 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Carroll, Daniel,Jenifer, Daniel of St. Thomas

                            Gentlemen
                            New Windsor 7th June 1781

                        I was this day honored with your favor of the 3d instant. I very sensibly feel not only for the danger to
                            which the States immediately invaded are exposed, but for the general bad consequences which may ensue if the enemy are
                            permitted at this time, to gain and hold possession of a part of our Country, and I have been endeavouring to concert
                            such plans with our Allies as I hope will eventually frustrate the projects which the enemy seem to have in view. Nothing
                            but an adherence to regular plans and Systems can ultimately be attended with salutory effects, and I flatter myself the
                            issue of those now in contemplation will justify the observation.
                        I have desired the Executives of the States of Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland to send the Corps of
                            Infantry Artillery and Cavalry requested by the Resolution of the 31st of May, to the Head Quarters of the Army in
                            Virginia or in Maryland (should the enemy have advanced into that State) as fast as they are raised and equipped. I cannot
                            promise any further assistance as to Arms and Accoutrements having already forwarded to the southward all that could
                            possibly be shared of those on hand.
                        The danger to which letters are exposed upon the communication between this and Philadelphia, renders it
                            unadvisable to enter into details upon paper; but I beg you to be assured, that the slender means, with which I am yet
                            furnished, shall be directed, to the best of my abilities, to the general good. To those who are experiencing the
                            calamities of War, all relief only in prospect seems very far off, but I trust the enemy will in the end repent the hasty
                            advance which they are now making. I have the honor to be with very great Respect and esteem Gentlemen Yr most obt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Mathews, 7 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Mathews, John

                            Dear Sir
                            New Windsor June 7th 1781

                        I must begin this letter with an apology for having delayed the acknowledgment of your favors of the 16th of
                            Apl & 2d of May till this time—and as the best excuses upon these occasions is to confess the truth, honestly, I
                            beg leave to add that, the above letters did not reach my hands till a day or two before my departure for Weathersfield—that I did not return from that place till the 26th—and that to make the necessary arrangements consequent of the plan
                            there agreed on have employed my time pretty much since.
                        The freedom of your communications is highly pleasing to me—the portrait you have drawn of our affairs is
                            strictly agreeable to the life—and you do me but justice in supposing that my Mind is fortified against, or rather
                            prepared for, the most distressing accts that can be given of them—it would not be the part of friendship therefore to
                            conceal any circumstance from an unwillingness to give pain—especially as the knowledge of them to a man determined not
                            to sink under the weight of perplexities may be of the utmost importance. But we must not despair—the game is yet in our
                            own hands—to play it well is all we have to do—& I trust the experience of error will enable us to act better in
                            future—A cloud may yet pass over us—individuals may be ruined—& the Country at large or particular States,
                            undergo temporary distress; but certain I am, that it is in our power to bring the War to a happy conclusion.
                        My public letters to Congress, & in a more especial manner, my private communications to Governor
                            Rutledge, will bring you fully acquainted with the situation of things in this quarter, and the prospects before us—how
                            far we shall be able to extricate ourselves from the first and realize the latter time only can shew—I have great
                            expectations from the appointment of Mr Morris, but they are not unreasonable ones—for I do not suppose that by Art Magick,
                            he can do more than recover us by degrees—from the labyrinth into which our finance is plunged.
                        I am very sorry for the disagreeable situation of our suffering Soldiery at Charles Town, and wish they could
                            be relieved with out adding to the pressure under which we at present groan. how far it is in General Greene’s power to
                            liberate, by exchange, our Prisoners in that quarter I know not; but the authority I can give to do this he has, reserving
                            the Troops of Convention from his disposal. With these I have plague enough—in a late interview
                            between the two Commissaries of Prisoners, Mr Loring refused to Exchange General Burgoyne unless the
                            Prisoners taken at the Cedars are allowed for, which is opposed by a Resolve of Congress. and has actually refused to pay
                            a debt of Privates which three months ago he promised to do—Mrs Washington who has been very unwell for sometime past
                            joins me in respectful complimts to Mrs Mathews. I have the honor to be Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt &
                            Affecte Hble Servt

                            Go: W——n


Title: To George Washington from John Paterson, 7 June 1781
From: Paterson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            West Point June 7th 1781

                        The inclosed are from a number of the first Gentlemen in Berkshire in favor of King now under sentence of
                            death—I am particularly acquainted with his circumstances. His Mother was drove by the Enemy from Balltown &
                            thereby greatly distressd, when he deserted he went directly home and was exceedingly industrous, all his earnings were
                            appropriated to the subsistance of the family it appears that nothing but the distress of his Mother and Fatherless
                            Brothers and Sisters induced him to be Guilty of so henious a Crime. I am Sir your most Obedient humble Servant

                            John Paterson

                     Enclosure

                                Dear Sir
                                Stockbridge June 5th 1781

                            Mr Kirkland informs me that by the disere of a number of People of Character he is on a journey to Camp,
                                to endeavour the reprieve of William King, now under Sentence of Death for Desertion, I wish never to have the Laws
                                evaded or trifled with in matters of that nature, no Person views the Crime of Desertion with more Detestation than
                                myself, nevertheless I cant but think there is many aleveating Circumstances in this Case of King’s which in some
                                measure intitles him to Clemancy & which together with the distressed Circumstances of his mother should he be executed,
                                (particulars of which Mr Kirkland will inform you) induces me desire your influence in obtaining his Repreve.
                            I never made a request of this nature before, and nothing but viewing him more unfortunate than Criminal
                                could induce me to do it now. I am Dear sir your very Humble Servt

                                Wm Walker

                     Enclosure

                                Dear Genl,
                                Stockbridge June 5th 1781

                            by the Request of Mr Catling and a Number of other Respectfull Inhabitents I have been
                                Induced to wright you a few Lines Requesting you to assist Mr Catling in getting a Pardon for Wm King a Soldier
                                Belonging to Col. Vanskaiks Regiment if it be Consistint with the good of the Service as he is a Soldier Which has
                                    been a Good Charactor till now.
                            I was yesterday at Lenox and Miss Patterson is well and all the family—and all your freinds, in this
                                Quarter—I have not been able to git an order for selling those Tory farmes which you was
                                speaking to me about but I hope I shall Soon.
                            Please to give my Compliments to Mrs Sh... and all my acquaintence in Camp. I am dear
                                General with the greatest Respect your Most obedient Huml. Servt

                                J. Hollister

                     Enclosure

                                Sir,
                                Stockbridge June 5. 1781

                            At the particular request of, a number of principal Gentlemen in this Town, as well as in the town of
                                    Lee, the Revd Mr Kirkland undertakes to ride to West Point, to solicit for the pardon of one
                                William King, of Van Schaaiks Regmt, who we hear is under sentance of death for desertion—His mother is a hapless
                                Widdow in the last mentioned town, being driven from her home at Balltown, and made helpless by the ravages of our
                                enemies in that quarter—Could it consist, with the dissipline and good of the army, it would be an act of high
                                benevolence to a fond mother, greatly distressed, aside of this event, to procure a pardon her son.
                                I have the honor to be your most obt huml. Sevt

                                Timy Edwards


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 7 June 1781
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            War Office June 7th 1781

                        We have the honor to enclose a Resolve of Congress for the supply of the Army by contract and of the Board’s
                            Report on the subject. As your Excelly is best acquainted with the operations of the Campaign and has the power vested in
                            you by the Resolve of the 25th February 1780 we request you will please to point out the Magazines or
                            places of Deposit to which the provisions should be collected and the quantities at each Magazine as this will be
                            absolutely necessary in completing the contracts. We have the honor to be with the highest respect your Excelly’s Most Obt
                            Servt

                            Richard Peters By Order

                     Enclosure

                                Gentlemen,
                                Philada 23rd May 1781

                            A Resolution of Congress of the 26th of August 1778 impowers the Commander in Chief or the Commanding
                                Officer of a seperate Army to fix the ration issued to our Troops. The impossibility of procuring the small parts of
                                Rations allowed by Resolve of Congress the 4th Novr 1775 to supply the Army induced the Commander in Chief to fix a
                                Ration to one pound of Flour, one pound of beef, or three quarters of a pound of pork and in lieu of milk, molasses,
                                rice & a fill of Rum or other spirits. The articles of soap and Candles must be procured from the tallow of
                                the Cattle used with the Army the proceeds of which will be sufficient for that purpose. The above mentioned ration in
                                my opinion is sufficient for the Troops, and the Rum an equivalent for the small parts thereof. Fish is an article the
                                Soldiery do not like, nor will they accept of it only chance days when there is a scarcity of beef.
                            The value of the above mentioned rations will depend on the places where you engage your contractors to
                                deposit or deliver and in my opinion the under mentioned allowances for reasonable places of deposit will be
                            sufficient

                                    Viz.

                                    1 lb. Flour

                                    2d. 1/2

                                     including

                                    1 Beef or 3/4 pork

                                    6

                                     1st Quarter

                                    1 Gill rum

                                         2 1/2

                                     11d.

                            Agreeable to the above ration you will please calculate your supplies and when you fix upon your places
                                of deposit and the method in which you mean to have your supplies delivered I make no doubt you will have many persons
                                offering to engage. I have the honor to be &c
                            Copy

                                Eph. Blaine C.G.P.

                     Enclosure

                                Sir,
                                War Office June 7th 1781

                            The Board have the honor to enclose Congress a list of the component articles of a ration and an Estimate
                                of the price thereof in the whole amounting to eleven ninetyeths of a dollar in specie. The calculations are founded
                                on the prices in this State and therefore exhibit no certain rule for other parts of the continent which from the
                                nature of things must vary according to circumstances: the difference should therefore be well considered in framing
                                the contracts.
                            The Board have Estimated the number of Rations for the Northern and Southern Armies respectively on a
                                supposition of the different quotas being entirely compleat agreeable to the establishment of the third day of October
                                1780 and tho’ it is not probable that the States will furnish the number of troops required in a short time, Yet the
                                Board had no other fixed rule to govern them. If they had adopted any other principle they could only have determined
                                by conjecture. It is also to be observed that it is probable Militia will be called into service in proportion as the
                                regular Troops are defective; if however Congress should be of opinion that so great a number of Rations are not
                                necessary they will be pleased to direct the deductions to be made in such a proportion as their wisdom shall suggest.
                            The Board have not considered it as referred to them to enter minutely into the detail of the contracts
                                as no doubt every thing on the subject will be considered by those whose duty it is to superintend the making them. It
                                will be proper in our opinion to have larger supplies at one time of the Year than at another according to the
                                strength of the Army which will depend as well on its casualties as it’s organization. If the Lines were filled the
                                contracts might be made to continue. But if the Army is in part as it probably will be composed of Militia or Levies
                                for certain number of Months of course larger supplies should be contracted for at one period than at another. The
                                provision for the Southern Army should be greater in Winter than in Summer as the periods of operation in the two
                                Armies are in a great measure reversed.
                            The Board have wrote to the Commander in Chief to point out the places of deposit as he has the
                                directions of the operations of the Campaign the Board thought it necessary to consult him on the occasion that in
                                forming the contracts his views might be adopted and his measures facilitated.
                            The Resolve of Congress under which this Estimate furnished does not designate by whom the contracts are
                                to be made. We presume however that all public contracts should be made by the Executive Officers of the several
                                departments under the direction of the Superintendant of Finance as by the Regulations of his Department he is to "direct and controul all persons employed in procuring supplies
                                for the public service and in the expenditure of public “money" and he has besides the disposition of all specific
                                supplies. We mention this circumstance that the business may be complete when passed upon and that the Commissary Genl
                                of Purchases may have explicit orders on the subject. We have the Honor to be with great Respect your Excellency’s
                                very obedt Servt

                                Wm Grayson By order

                                P.S. South Carolina and Georgia are excepted as it is supposed it will not be practicable to engage
                                    provisions by contract in those states.


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 7 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor June 7th 1781

                        At the same time I again inform you, of the almost infinite importance it is, to have the Boats in immediate
                            readiness for use, I must request and entreat that no exertions, on your part, may be wanting to put them instantly in
                            that state: if there is any thing in my power which will tend to expedite, this so necessary business, I wish to be
                            informed, that measures may be taken accordingly.
                        I wish also you will acquaint me with the means that have been made use of to transport the Arms &
                            Accoutrements to the Southward, whether they have all been forwarded as yet from this place, under what circumstances,
                            under whose care, and with what prospect of their being expediditiously transported, and safely delivered—It is a matter
                            of the greatest consequence to the Southern States, which are in danger of being over run & ruined for the want of
                            Arms. I am Dear Sir Your Most Obedient Servt

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. Please to send the Letters for the Eastward by the Chain of Expresses immediately.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 7 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 7th June 1781

                        I do myself the Honor to inclose Your Excellency a Martinico Gazette of the 3rd of May which announces the
                            Arrival of the Count de Grasse and gives an imperfect Account of the Action between the Fleets. This was sent me by the
                            Minister with a Desire that it might be forwarded to You. But by Intelligence as late as the 8th of May it appears that
                            the Count, unable to overtake Hood, had returned to Martinico, and that an Attempt was immediately to be made upon St
                            Lucia at which there was a Garrison of 1200 British Troops.
                        Your Excellency will observe a very extraordinary Paragraph in the inclosed Paper. It is asserted that 5
                            Ships of the Line, having 42 Transports under their Convoy, parted from the main Body of the Fleet and were destined for
                            Rhode Island. Should You have received similar Official Intelligence, or should You and Mr Barras think that such a
                            Circumstance is probable—in that Case, His Majesty’s Squadron ought not in my Opinion, at this Moment to leave Rhode
                            Island, but await the Reinforcement there. Possibly the Dispatches for your Excellency and Count de Barras which I forward
                            by this Opportunity may throw more Light upon the Matter & enable You to judge with Precission upon the Measure
                            which ought to be pursued.
                        Accounts from Virginia are exceedingly alarming. The Enemy having concentered their Force are marching thro
                            the State almost without Controul, as the Body of Men under the Command of the Marquis de la Fayette was too small to give
                            effectual opposition. This obliges me again to entreat Your Excellency to move this Way as soon as Circumstances will
                            possibly admit. The Reasons which were urged in my last now operate more powerfully in favor of the Movement than they did
                            before. I have the Honor to be with very great Regard and Attachment Your Excellency’s Most Obedt and Hble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 8 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters New Windsor Friday June 8th 1781
                            Parole.
                            Countersigns.

                        On the entreaty of his Friends and the intercessions of a number of gentlemen the Commander in Chief, is
                            pleased to pardon William King of the first New York regiment now under Sentence of Death for Desertion.
                        Jonathan Trumbull Esqr. Junior is appointed Secretary to the Commander in Chief and to be respected
                            accordingly.


Title: From George Washington to George Rogers Clark, 8 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Clark, George Rogers

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 8th June 1781

                        I this day received your favors of the 20th and 21st of May by Capt. Randolph and am sorry to find that your
                            intended expedition against Detroit stands upon so precarious a footing. When Govr Jefferson first proposed the plan to me
                            he only asked for the Artillery and Stores and an Artillery Officer, but as I wished to give every support in my power to
                            the undertaking which I deemed of great public import, I ordered Colo. Brodhead to detach Capt. Craig with his whole
                            Company of Artillery and as many Men from the 8th Penna and 9th Virginia Regts as he could safely spare. That command I
                            did not imagine could amount to more than a Captains or Majors at most. Your present request of augmenting the number of
                            Continental troops to the whole of the 9th Regt and Heaths independant Company is what I cannot think myself at liberty to
                            comply with, as it would be leaving the post of Pittsburg in too defenceless a state to resist any attempt of an open
                            enemy, to say nothing of the disaffected in the Vicinity, who, from intelligence which comes from the same quarter as that
                            which I communicated to you, are numerous and ready to join the enemy whenever an opportunity offers.
                        You have not advised me of the number of Militia on which you can depend if the expedition goes forward,
                            neither can Capt. Randolph give me any certain information on the subject. This were there no other reason, would make me
                            very unwilling to give an order for the number of Continental troops now requested, as I could not answer it to myself nor
                            to my Country should the expedition fail and it should hereafter be found that it was owing to its having being undertaken
                            with fewer Men than such an object required. I feel not only for the public disappointment, but for your own, as I doubt
                            not but you had the Affair much at heart, and that you would have executed it with your usual ability and address had you
                            been able to have found the means. I am Sir Yr most obt and humble Servt.


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 8 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters N. Windsor 8th June 1781

                        I was duly favored with your Letter of the 15th of May and have just now had the pleasure to receive that of
                            the 29th—I intreat you not to relinquish or relax your Sollicitations and importunities until the great Object of your
                            mission are fully accomplished. As the plan of the Campaign is now settled upon the presumption of the success of your
                            Application, a Failure in the smallest degree on the Part of the states will involve us in the deepest Distress, and
                            probably frustrate every advantage we might other wise Obtain—I only wish these Legislatures may be impressed with these
                            Ideas, & stimulated to Exertions proportioned to the Occasion.
                        The salted Provisions at Springfield were included in those which were refigured to be imediately
                            transported to the army, that is, to the nearest Point of embarkation on the North River. I wish the transportation of
                            these, as well as the supplies of Rum and Cloathing may be expedited as much as possible. not a drop of Rum has yet come on,
                            and the Physicians report that the artificers (who work exceedingly hard) are falling sick for want it—besides you must
                            be sensible that it is extreamly necessary for other Purposes—As to Sumer clothing I request you to make known to the
                            States, that almost every article in the public Store which was of any Value, has been sent on to the Southern Army—and
                            that there is no other possible alternative but for the Troops to be provided with it by their own States—or become
                            literally naked.
                        I am persuaded you will not loose Sight of the Supply of Beef Cattle called for from the Eastern States—nor
                            give a moments Quiet to them untill ample provision is made for obtaing the whole of it.the means of transportation are
                            equally important.
                        A Quantity of Cloathing (about 2000 Suits) having arrived at Boston from Spain—you will be pleased to give
                            orders to the D.Q.M. Genl to have it forwarded imediately to the Army—The packages must not be
                            broken—In case Teams cannot be procured to transport the whole, at least 1000 Suits compleat, with the same Number of
                            Hatts, & a proportion of Sergeants Coats must be sent on: the Coats, waist coats and Breeches should be divided by their
                            Size, into three distinct parcells—vizt the largest, midling & smallest—and marked accordingly. I request you to pay
                            particular Attention to it & to make application to the State for the Means of conveyance, (should the Q. Master Genrl
                            be unable to provide Teams) but I should suppose the Ox Teams hired for the Campaign might be made use of for the Purpose—A Conductor should come with the Cloathg to prevent Waste & delay in the transportation.
                        You may be assured you will not be forgotten in the arrangements for the Campaign. and that I am with very
                            great Regard & Esteem Dear Sir Your most obedt servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert Howe, 8 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Winsor 8th June 1781

                        Mr Kirkland has delivered me your letter of Yesterday with one from B. Genl Patterson, respecting King under
                            sentance of Death. In Consequence of their sollicitations in his Favr, I have consented that he shall be pardoned for his
                            Offence—& not subjected to the Execution of his Sentence; his Releace from Service for obvious Reasons is not
                            admissible. You will be pleasd to send him by the first good Opportunity to his Regiment in Albany.
                        John Henesey a Soldier of the 2d N. York Regiment, you will be pleasd to send under a proper guard to Albany, to
                            the Direction of Brigr Genl Clinton, by him to be brot to Execution, or pardoned, as the Genl on Consideration of
                            Circumstances, shall think proper.
                        Inclosed is the Proceedings of the Court Martial of the 5th June instant—the Sentance against Troy Lee being
                            approved. I am Sir Your most Obedt humle Servant.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 8 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

                            Dear Sir,
                            Head Qrs New Windsor 8th June 1781

                        I have had the honor of receiving your Excellency’s favors of the 9th & 28th of May. The progress
                            which the enemy are making in Virginia is very alarming not only to the State immediately invaded but to all the rest, as
                            I strongly suspect, from the most recent European intelligence, that they are endeavouring to make as large seeming
                            conquests as possible that they may urge the plea of uti possidetis in the proposed mediation. Your Excellency will be
                            able to judge of the probability of this conjecture from the Circular letter of the President of Congress of the 1st Inst.
                        Were it prudent to commit a detail of our plans and expectations to paper I could convince Your Excellency by
                            a variety of Reasons, that my presence is essential to the operations which have lately been concerted between the French
                            commanders and myself and which are to open in this quarter provided the British keep possession of New York.
                        There have lately been rumours of an evacuation of that place, but I do not place confidence in them.
                        Should I be supported by the Neighbouring States in the manner which I expect, the enemy will, I hope, be
                            reduced to the necessity of recalling part of their force from the Southward to support New York or they will run the most
                            eminent risque of being expelled with a great loss of Stores from that Port which is to them invaluable, while they think
                            of prosecuting the War in America, and should we, by a lucky coincidence of Circumstances, gain a naval superiority their
                            ruin would be inevitable. The prospect of giving relief to the Southern States by an operation in this quarter, was the
                            principal inducement for undertaking it. Indeed we found upon a full consideration of our affairs in every point of view,
                            that, without the command of the Water it would be next to impossible for us to transfer the Artillery– Baggage– and
                            Stores of the Army to so great a distance and besides, that we should loose at least one third of our force by desertion–
                            sickness– and the heat of the approaching season even if it could be done.
                        Your Excellency may probably ask whether we are to remain here for the above reasons should the enemy
                            evacuate New York and transfer the whole War to the Southward? To that I answer that we must, in such a case, follow them
                            at every expence, and under every difficulty and loss; but that while we remain inferior at Sea, and there is a
                            probability of giving relief by diversion (and that perhaps sooner than by sending reinforcements immediately to the point
                            in distress) good policy dictates the trial of the former.
                        Give me leave before I take leave of your Excellency in your public capacity to Express the obligations I am
                            under for the readiness and Zeal with which you have always forwarded & supported every measure which I have had
                            occasion to recommend thro you, and to assure you that I shall esteem myself honored by a continuation of your friendship
                            & corrispondence shou’d your country permit you to remain in the private walk of life. I have the honor to be with
                            every Sentiment of respect & regard Dr Sir Yr Most Obt Hble Ser.

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 8 June 1781
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            New Windsor 8th June 1781

                        I received your Excellencys favor of this Day enclosing Genl Cornells letter of the 24th ultimo informing of
                            the quantity of Lead & cartridges which may be expected from Boston and Providence, and of the request of the
                            State of New Jersey for Ammunition. It appears from General Cornells letter that the prospects of addition to your  are moderate and the demands from the southward and northward so great as to claim the illegible. If your Excellency should think proper the State of New
                            Jersey might receive at illegible 15 or 20,000 at most. There are at that place under the
                            charge of Mr. illegiblealmost 60,000 which Pennsylvania line and which I have to be brought to this place as soon as they can be procured for that purpose. In confabbg with General Duportail on the subject of the operation in contemplation he
                            conceived the platforms to be within the line of his duty, and he informed he should apply to the Q. M.
                            General for them to procure them but I am not able to say how far he has proceeded—We are saving
                                timber for the Carriages at Belknaps Mills and hope to be able to pursue a sufficiency. I have the
                            honor to be with the utmost Respect Your Excellencys most obedient Servant.


Title: From George Washington to Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 8 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 8th June 1781

                        I am exceedingly obliged to Your Excellency for your interesting Communication of the 1st instant. The
                            Martinico Paper has been forwarded to the Count de Rochambeau.
                        As You promise me the Pleasure of your Company the first Leisure Moment You can find I shall defer entering
                            upon a Detail of public Officers until I shall have the Happiness of a personal Conversation. Indeed the Accidents which
                            have lately befallen several of our Messengers between this Place and Philadelphia makes one extremely cautious of
                            trusting any thing of Importance to Paper.
                        I presage the happiest Consequences from the Appointment of a Gentleman of Mr Morris’s Character and
                            Abilities to the Superintendance of our Finance. I wait impatiently for his making me the Visit which he proposes, as many
                            very essential Matters in the Operation of the Campaign will upon the Assistance which he will be able to afford us. I beg
                            You to be assured that I am with perfect Respect and Attachment Your Excellency’s Most Obedt and Hble servt

                            Go: Washington