Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail, 21 March 1780
From: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque
To: Hamilton, Alexander

philad. 21 March 1780
Mon Cher Colonel

quoique je Compte partir pour le Camp dans peu de jours, la Crainte dêtre encore Retenu plus longtemps que je ne voudrois, Comme je le suis depuis un mois, ma fait prendre le party de vous ecrire quelquechose qui me semble d’une Certaine importance qui me Concerne. hyer jay appris qu’il y a une quinzaine de jours (lors de la nouvelle de l’arrivé des anglois) un membre du Congrès Representait dans le Congrès qu’il seroit à propos de m’envoyer en Caroline avec le plus grande hâte. il fonda sa demande sur les Choses avantageuses qu’il avoit entendu dire de moy &c. il vouloit que le Congrès me donna sur le Champ des ordres et que je partisse sans delay. j’ignore quel est le membre qui a fait Cette proposition, seulement j’a Conjecture que c’est quelque delegué des etats du sud. on luy a Repondu que C’etoit au Commandant en Chef qu’il appartenoit de faire une telle Chose, que le Congrès ne pouvoit pas scavoir s’il n’avoit pas quelque Raison de me Retenir à son armée, quoique dans la Circonstance presente il parut effectivement que je serois plus utile au sud, en un mot que l’attention avec laquelle le Commandant en Chef veilloit au salut de l’etat ne permettoit pas de douter qu’il n’employât tous les moyens qui etoient en son pouvoir et que les Circonstances permettoient.
il est trés agreable mon Cher Colonel, d’etre le sujet d’une aussi belle phrase, mais je suis faché que la Chose aye tourné ainsi. je suis aussi trés faché de n’avoir pas scu tout Cela dans le temps pour vous le mander. Car il etoit encore temps alors d’aller dans le sud. maintenant je ne scais plus que desirer. Cependant hyer l’on nous debitoit que des vaisseaux de transport escortés de vaisseaux de guerre etoient arrivés a new york pour prendre des Renforts. si Cela etoit se Confirmoit il y auroit apparence que les anglois ne se proposeroient pas de Commencer leurs operations avant l’arrivée de Ces Renforts, alors Ce seroit peut estre le Cas d’y aller. je laisse tout Cela à faire à votre prudence et à votre amitiè. vous scavès une partie des Raisons que j’ay toujours eu et que jay encore de ne point faire de demande à Ce sujet au general washington, mais vous scavès aussi Combien je desire d’aller en Caroline sil y a quelque apparence que je puisse y arriver à temps. je ne vois pas d’inconvenient à Ceque vous fassiès usage auprès du general de Cequi s’est passé dans le Congrès, parceque plusieurs membres du Congrès l’ont deja dit à differentes personnes.
(si vous voulès ensuite que je vous parle comme à mon amy je vous diray que jai eu lieu de voir que de m’envoyer la bas auroit fait un fort bon effet icy surtout dans le Commencement.)
Supposé donc que notre general jugeât par des Circonstances ulterieures, qu’il peut encore estre temps de m’y envoyer. Comme il ne faut pas perdre un moment, il seroit bon que je ne fusse pas obligé de Retourner au Camp. pour Cela, il faudroit m’envoyer avec les ordres toutes les lettres necessaires pour le general lincoln et autres. vous scavès mon Cher Colonel Ce que je desire à Cet egard. si je vas la bas il faut que mon arrivée soit Comme un de Ces incidens au theatre qui Reveille les spectateurs et les etonne de l’activité et de la Chaleur à la piece. (vous m’entendès.) je crois que dans Ce Cas le general doit ecrire au Congrès, outre les Raisons qu’il a de m’envoyer pour le prier de me faire donner tous les moyens nécessaires pour faire diligence. enfin prenès bien garde à Cecy mon Cher Colonel, si vous m’envoyès des ordres, sitot que Cela sera decidé envoyès Chercher monsieur de Castaing mon aide de Camp et dites luy sil vous plait de faire partir sur le Champ ma malle et la sienne sur un waggon du quartier maitre, sil y en a qui partent sur le Champ, sinon sur mon propre waggon. qu’il n’oublie pas surtout mes papiers. il peut ensuite venir après luy même et m’apporter les lettres du general. il faut quil fasse diligence, je ne puis partir sans differentes Choses qui sont dans ma malle qu’il se munisse luy même de Cequil luy faut. mon adresse icy est Mrs sword in loge alley second street. je ne partiray point dicy avant lundy prochain afin d’attendre votre Reponse.
jay lhonneur d’etre, Mon Cher Colonel, avec le plus parfait attachement Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur
du portail
Colonel hamilton


Title: Major General Arthur St. Clair and Lieutenant Colonels Edward Carrington and Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [26 March 1780]
From: St. Clair, Arthur,Carrington, Edward,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[Morristown, New Jersey, March 26, 1780]

To His Excellency George Washington Esqr. General and Commander in Chief of the Forces of The United States of America.
We The Commissioners appointed by Your Excellency “to treat, confer, determine and conclude upon a General Cartel for the exchange and accommodation of prisoners of war including the troops of The Convention of Saratoga and all matters whatsoever which might be properly contained therein” beg leave to report—
That persuant to Your Excellency’s instructions, we met Major General Philips, The Honorable Lt Col Gordon and Lt Col Norton, commissioners on the part of His Excellency General Sir Henry Clinton, at Amboy, the 9th. instant, and the day following had an interview with them on the subject for which we were respectively deputed.
That we found the powers of The British Commissioners liable to the same objections which had frustrated all former endeavours to settle a general Cartel; and were compelled, as well from the express tenor of our own powers as from the indispensable nature of the objections themselves to decline a negotiation for which on their side there was no sufficient authority. Your Excellency will perceive by the annexed copy of Sir Henry Clinton’s commission, that he acknowleges no power from His Britannic Majesty as the basis of the proposed treaty; and the subjoined minutes of the proceedings will show substantially what passed in the conference upon this subject. We omitted there an objection which we occasionally made in the course of conversation to the caption of The British powers.

We think it unnecessary to detail here the reasons assigned for our objections, as we deem them too evident to need elucidation and as most of them have been stated, on former occasions, in the strongest and clearest manner by Your Excellency’s commissioners. But we cannot forbear remarking how extraordinary it must appear that such repeated attempts have been made to establish a Treaty the ostensible operation of which is to extend through the war, while its real one must at best be limited to the continuance of a particular officer in command, having no other support than his personal faith and personal influence.
While we lament that our commission has not had an issue answerable to its humane intention and to Your Excellency’s wishes, we shall be happy to find our conduct meets your approbation.
Ar. St. Clair Mr. GlEd. Carrington Lt. Colo Arty.Alex Hamilton Lt Col
Morris Town March   26th. 1780


Title: Major General Arthur St. Clair and Lieutenant Colonels Edward Carrington and Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 26 March 1780
From: St. Clair, Arthur,Carrington, Edward,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Morris Town [New Jersey] 26th. of March 1780
Sir,

In addition to the official report of our proceedings at Amboy, which your Excellency will perceive have terminated in the manner you expected, we have the honor to give you an account of the steps we took, in consequence of the second part of your instructions, relative to a private conversation. But before we enter upon this, we think it our duty to inform you, that we have every reason to be persuaded, Sir Henry Clinton has no power to treat of the subject of prisoners on national ground; and that he will of course avoid an exchange altogether, whatever immediate interest he may have in it, rather than go into a measure of this nature. The more effectually to try the temper of the enemy on this head we endeavoured by methods which could not be drawn into consequence to impress The British Commissioners with a belief, that we should give them very great advantages in a present exchange, if a Cartel could be framed on our principles to provide durably for the relief of prisoners. We found by the determined manner in which they rejected the proposition under whatever shape it came that they not only had no authority to accept and could obtain none, but that their policy and feelings were strongly opposed to the idea.
After having made the fullest experiment of the intentions of The British Commissioners, and being convinced that we must otherwise separate without doing anything, and after having put an end to the commission, we proposed agreeable to your instructions, a private conference on the terms of a particular exchange, to be submitted to the two Commanders in Chief. This was readily agreed to by The Gentlemen on the other side.
We thought it adviseable previous to any thing else to sound their intentions with respect to a settlement of accounts; and gave them to understand that in whole or in part, it would necessarily be connected with the exchange of any considerable portion of The Convention troops. They did not think it expedient to evade the subject intirely; but we easily discovered they were not a little averse to doing any thing material on this article.
The first point taken up was to class the different descriptions of prisoners, the unexceptionable—those totally objected to—and the doubtful, whose cases demanded further inquiry. Your Excellency will find the result in the inclosed returns No. 1 and 2.
We next agreed upon a distribution of The Convention troops. No. 3. will show in what manner the first and second divisions were disposed; no arrangement was made of the third, as the exchange could not reach it.
We then entered upon a discussion of the mode of exchange—In this we were so unfortunate as to differ. The British Gentlemen made the proposals contained in No. 4; and in return we offered them the plan No. 5. The principal difference between us was, that we insisted upon ultimately comprehending all the prisoners of war in the exchange; and they wished to postpone all whose specific ranks and situations were not at the time ascertained to a future and remote discussion. This would have thrown into their hands two or three hundred private men more than they were intitled to by the spirit of the original proposals, and we should have remaining on ours, a number of characters in whose liberation, they were little if at all interested. Our proposition appeared to us equitable and we did not think ourselves at liberty to depart from it; they would not recede from their’s and in consequence of the disagreement declined proceeding in the conference. We urged in vain that as it was merely private and not final, the not being able to unite in one point was no reason for discontinuing a conversation, which would at any rate be so far useful that it would serve to enlighten both parties on the sentiments of each other and might eventually produce a compromise. They persisted in declining it, saying that it could answer no purpose unless there was a perfect agreement in every stage.
The conversation under the form first assumed ended here; but we afterwards fell into a sort of confidential explanation on the subject of accounts. The Gentlemen declared it to be their opinion that nothing formal or of any great extent would ever be done in this matter. The objections went not only to an actual settlement or payment, but to an acknowledgement of debt or stipulation for a future settlement. Among other motives against it, they seemed to apprehend, that any such step would be an implied justification of the suspension of the treaty of Saratoga. They observed however that a particular sum without declaring its object might be advanced in provision or specie. But we could not get them to go further in this idea than to make the following offers—of £25000 Currency if the exchange were made to extend to one half of the second division, of £20.000 Sterling if to the whole of the second division, but without in this last instance giving us credit in a future exchange for the balance of prisoners in our favour. In either case if the amount was paid in provisions, they were to be delivered under pretence of being designed for the convention troops, and the debts of our officers for board &c were to be settled, and deducted from the stipulated sum. We assured them, we were persuaded these offers would not be accepted but that they would be mentioned to your Excellency. We ventured also to give it as our opinion, that if they would advance £20.000 Sterling on condition of exchanging one half of the second division, it might possibly be accepted. But this they thought would by no means answer.
By the best calculations we are able to make, which cannot be intirely accurate as there are ranks not defined—according to our proposals No. 5 the enemy would receive about 1000 rank and file, according to theirs, No 4 about 1200; on the principle of advancing £25000 Currency about the same number, on that of £20.000 Stg to comprehend the two divisions 1600. Your Excellency will judge how far either of the enemy’s proposals is admissible or whether any medium can be devised.
We beg leave to observe that we think it improbable the enemy will at this time be brought to more favourable terms. They appeared to have come to their ultimatum. General Philips is no doubt anxious to be exchanged, and has probably no inconsiderable influence in the measures now taken; but he seems to make it a point of delicacy and honor, as he stands at the head of the second division, not to be exchanged without including at least one half of the division in the same advantage. The scruple is natural and may be sincere. But notwithstanding this and though it should be determined to accede to either of the present propositions, we should imagine it would not be inexpedient first to attempt a compromise at some intermediate point.
We were under an absolute necessity of comprehending the Southern prisoners as the enemy would listen to nothing without it; but we have done it in such a manner by limiting the operation to a known period, as will make no material difference in the number of privates to be given in exchange. We imagine this difference will not exceed an hundred; and as we know on every other account, your Excellency interests yourself as much in their release as in that of the prisoners in this quarter, we flatter ourselves you will not disapprove what has been done respecting them.
In the course of conversation it was mentioned by General Philips that as The Commission was at an end, it would be necessary to obtain General Clinton’s concurrence to whatever might be finally concerted; and for this purpose he thought a flag vessel with a passport from us would be the most expeditious & eligible mode. He also expressed a wish to be permitted to go himself to Sir Henry, which he said would be of importance in any case, essential if a question of money should be involved. We promised to impart his request.
We are bound to inform Your Excellency that there was a reciprocal pledge of honor that no part of these conversations should become matter of official record or publication; and we have intire confidence that this communication will never appear in any form inconsistent with our engagements.
We have the honor to be With perfect respect   Yr. Excellency’s Most Obedt   & humble servants
Ar. St. Clair Mr Gl.Ed: Carrington Lt. ColAlex Hamilton

P.S. We omitted mentioning that the mode talked of for conducting any further transactions on these subjects, was by letter between the Commanding Officers, by an interview between the two Commissaries of prisoners, or others without the formality of a regular commission.


Title: Enclosure: Major General Arthur St. Clair and Lieutenant Colonels Edward Carrington and Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [26 March 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Ballance of unexceptionable Characters Prisoners of War in favour of the enemy

 3 Brigadiers
at 200
600

11 Colonels
100
1100

 5 Majors
28
140

20 Captains
16
320

56 first Lieutenants
6
336

72 second Lieutenants and Ensigns—
    4
  288

2784

 9 Reg Qr. Mrs. & Adjutants,
a[t] 6
54

Dy Adj General & Brigade Major estimated at

   22

2860

Amount of first division including 903 rank and file

 2459

401

Lt Governor Hamilton say Lt Col
72

Major Hay
28

Capt La Motte
16

Monsieur De Jean

  116

Ballance due on first division

285

Southern prisoners to the 31st of decembr supposed to Amot. to

  400

due enemy

685

Deduct for Aligood Lucy & other doubtful Characters

  200

485

Major General Philips & suite

  402

   83

To extend to the middle of the second division would be
1200 rank & file

To Comprehend the two divisions would be
1600.


Title: George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 26 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

[Morristown, New Jersey] March 26, 1780. Asks if large body of troops can be transported to the South. Instructs Greene to report on “our prospects for moving the army this campaign.”


Title: George Washington to the Council of War, 27 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Council of War

Morristown [New Jersey] March 27, 1780. Gives “a general view of affairs as well to the Southward as here.” Requests opinions on advisability of sending a detachment to South Carolina.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Louis Le Bèque Du Portail, 27 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Du Portail, Louis Le Bèque

[Morristown, New Jersey] March 27, 1780. Doubts Du Portail can arrive in the South in time to be of use. Requests that Du Portail send frequent dispatches containing full details.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 27 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Morristown [New Jersey] March 27, 1780. Asks that Congress send Brigadier General Du Portail to the South where a good engineer is needed.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, [30 March 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Laurens, John

[Morristown, New Jersey, March 30, 1780]
My dear Laurens
I have received lately two letters from you, the last dated the 24th of February and am much obliged to you for the detail you give me. I hope your expectations may not be disappointed, though I confess to you my fears are very much up about your situation. The enemy will push the point at every hazard; and I am apprehensive after all you will be vulnerable on the water-side. If they will cut down their transports and arm them with heavy cannon, by sacrificing a part of them, they may perhaps overpower you with the remainder.
Our late accounts from New York tell us a further embarkation is going on, no doubt destined your way. It is said to consist of three new levy corps comprising a brigade under Lord Rawdon—The Queen’s Rangers under Simcoe—two British and two German Regiments, amounting I suppose in the whole to about three or four and twenty hundred men. I am inclined to believe these accounts substantially true though not yet entirely authenticated. We expect further advices tomorrow, when I suppose the General will write to General Lincoln.
A question has been agitated whether any reinforcements can be spared you from the army, the unanimous sentiment is against it. You know my idea of Southern affairs and that you cannot be more an advocate for the throwing all the strength we can to that quarter than I am; but in the present case I assure you, I know not how to advise a detachment. We are very weak and from the embarrassments in the Q’r Master’s department, for want of money in the early period of the season, we cannot concentrate our force; otherwise I should be of opinion to send you a detachment and collect the remainder at West Point. Indeed my friend our distress is so great that if there were no objection to parting with the men it would be almost impossible to convey them to you.
There have been no military transactions in this quarter since my last worth mentioning.

Adieu my Dear; I am sure you will exert yourself to save your country; but do not unnecessarily risk one of its most valuable sons. Take as much care of yourself as you ought for the public sake and for the sake of
Yr. affectionate
A. Hamilton
All the lads remember you as a friend and a brother. Meade says God bless you.
Morristown 30 of March


Title: George Washington to Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 30 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Morristown [New Jersey] March 30, 1780. Introduces and recommends Brigadier General Du Portail.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 31 March 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Morristown [New Jersey] March 31, 1780. Encloses and discusses a report of the commissioners for prisoner exchange who met at Amboy.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Lieutenant Abraham Skinner, [March 1780]
From: Skinner, Abraham
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Morristown, New Jersey, March, 1780.] Sends “Copies of the several Papers you mentioned.”


Title: George Washington to Baron von Steuben, 2 April 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Steuben, Baron von

Morristown [New Jersey] April 2, 1780. Approves of von Steuben’s proposals for the arrangement of the Army and his plan for additional regiments. Discusses military situation in the South.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 3 April 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Morristown [New Jersey] April 3, 1780. Pleads cause of officers of additional regiments. Discusses dissatisfaction in Army.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Colonel Azariah Dunham, 6 April 1780
From: Dunham, Azariah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Morristown [New Jersey] April 6, 1780. Reports supply of beef in Morris County and supply of pork in Burlington County.


Title: George Washington to Sir James Jay, 9 April 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, James

Morristown [New Jersey] April 9, 1780. Asks Jay to replenish his supply of a liquid used for secret writing.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Allison, 10 April 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Allison, Samuel

Morristown [New Jersey] April 10, 1780. States steps that have been taken toward arrest and trial of Lieutenant Patrick Carnes.


Title: George Washington to the Commanding Officer of Major Henry Lee’s Corps, 10 April 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Commanding Officer of Major Henry Lee’s Corps

Morristown [New Jersey] April 10, 1780. States charges by Samuel Allison against Lieutenant Patrick Carnes. Orders trial of Carnes.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Catherine Schuyler, [14 April 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Schuyler, Catherine

[Morristown, New Jersey, April 14, 1780]
Madam
The inclosed letter came to hand two days ago, and I take the earliest opportunity of forwarding it. I cannot forbear indulging my feelings, by entreating you to accept the assurances ⟨of my⟩ gratitude for your kind ⟨complia⟩nce with my wishes to be ⟨united⟩ to your amiable daughter. I leave it to my conduct rather than expressions to testify the sincerity of my affection for her, the respect I have for her parents, the desire I shall always feel to justify their confidence and merit their friendship. May I hope Madam, you will not consider it as mere profession, when I add, that though I have not the happiness of a personal acquaintence with you, I am no stranger to the qualities which distinguish your character and these make the relation in which I shall stand to you, not one of the least pleasing circumstances of my union with your daughter. My heart anticipates the sentiments of that relation and wishes to give you proofs of the respectful and affectionate attachment, with which I have the honor to be   Madam
Hd. Qrs. April 14. 80


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

Morristown [New Jersey] April 15, 1780. Approves of plans for expedition against St. Augustine. Discusses situation in the South. Instructs Lincoln to “determine places of deposit” for provisions and forage in North and South Carolina.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 17 April 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Morristown [New Jersey] April 17, 1780. Reports that the Maryland Division has marched to relief of Charleston. Discusses advisability of expedition against the enemy at Penobscot. Describes British attack on Paramus.


Title: George Washington to Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 18 April 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Morristown [New Jersey] April 18, 1780. Asks Lincoln to employ Lieutenant Colonel Dubuysson“in such a manner as will enable him to indulge his ardor.”


Title: George Washington to James Bowdoin, [26 April] 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Bowdoin, James

Morristown [New Jersey, April 26] 1780. Thanks Bowdoin for a copy of “the plan proposed for the constitution of [his] state.”


Title: George Washington to Chevalier de la Luzerne, 28 April 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Chevalier de

Morristown [New Jersey] April 28, 1780. Reports death of Juan de Miralles.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Marquis de Barbé-Marbois, 29 April 1780
From: Barbé-Marbois, Marquis de
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, April 29, 1780. On May 5–8, 1780, Hamilton wrote to Barbé-Marbois: “The day before yesterday I had the honor of your letter of the 29th. of April.” Letter not found.]


Title: George Washington to Diego José de Navarro, 30 April 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Navarro, Diege José

Morristown [New Jersey] April 30, 1780. Reports death of Juan de Miralles.


Title: Enclosure: William Gordon to George Washington, [1 March 1780]
From: Gordon, William
To: Washington, George

[Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, March 1, 1780]
My dear Sir
The last week I was designing to send You a friendly letter, without introducing into it any of my own concerns: but Col Henly calling upon me on the saturday afternoon, with a most extraordinary letter from Col Hamilton hath reduced me to the necessity of altering my plan. In some stations moral character is of little importance, but in mine it is next to All; & like female honour must be defended at all adventures. I have submitted to the trouble of transcribing all that hath passed between the Colonel & myself, which I shall enclose. I must make some remarks upon his last letter, but shall not be bitter in my expressions, as I would not add to the pain, I apprehend, your Excellency will feel upon the perusal of it. If in the body of the letter he alludes to any matters I have said or wrote, with a view of informing gentlemen, in particular departments, of facts or reports that they should not be strangers to, he shews himself to have been unworthy of that confidence, which was put in him when entrusted therewith. I have gone upon justifiable principles in what was done—have designed to serve the public & individuals. In consequence of my connexions thro the Northern States & down to Philadelphia, with persons, in & out of Congress, in civil & military life, I have had opportunities of seeing & receiving a variety of letters & of knowing many secrets, &, had I been villainously inclined, might have occasioned irreparable damage to the common cause; but I have made it my business to improve my knowledge to other & better purposes; & had all acted upon my plan, there would not have been those long interruptions of friendship & harmony that have subsisted in some instances. I have been obliged to mix myself with different companies, but I have carefully avoided intermixing myself with some of their particular disputes, & have carried it respectfully to all, which some may deem duplicity. If the Col alludes to reports, I have nothing to observe, but that there is no answering to those that are general; let them be reduced to particular allegations, & I doubt not but that I can clear myself. But in the present times, he who will boldly attack the vices thereof must expect to go thro’ bad reports as well as good. The best of characters must submit to this tax upon their virtue.
The Col in his last letter writes “I at first suspected, that you are yourself the author of the calumny”—his singular proceedings have not in the least tended to prove the report a calumny; or to confirm me in the opinion of his innocence. But if he suspected it at first, why did he not comply with my terms, upon which I promised to give him the name of my informer? This would not have been so improper for a gentleman, as to write in the manner he hath done. If he thought I made a feint of involving Congress, where was his subtilty in not catching me in my own trap by desiring me to follow the mode I proposed in the close of my letter? In stiling the affair a business little worthy ⟨of the⟩ attention of Congress, he forgets that on Sepr 5. he wrote “The crime alleged to me is of such enormity that if I am guilty it ought not to go unpunished, & if I am innocent I should have an opportunity of vindicating my innocence. It is incumbent upon you, Sir, to afford the means, either by accusing me to my civil or military superiors, or by disclosing the author of the information.”
I mean now to take him at his word, especially as he hath no objection to any part of his conduct’s being canvassed before any tribunal whatever. Should it be asked, how came you not to mention the affair to Congress before? I answer the honle Mr Dana was one of our delegates, & having spoken of it to him I was absolved from going further. I shall now proceed, by communicating the correspondence to several of the delegates, to be by them brought into Congress, if they judge it expedient. The Col hath reduced me to the necessity of taking measures for my own vindication, which I might otherwise have avoided. I shall leave it still in his power to prevent them: but it is upon the sole conditions—That he makes to your Excellency or myself satisfactory acknowledgment for the injurious treatment I have met with in his letters to me; & will declare upon his honour that he will not represent me as the author of the report concerning him, & when he hath done it will candidly own that he was mistaken. I expect that Col Henly will call upon me & convey this to you. I shall shew him the whole letter from which I extracted the paragraph in my last to Col Hamilton, covering & concealing the name of the writer & the place of his abode: but should any misrepresentations or insinuations have wrought so upon your Excellency’s mind as to make you the least dubious of my integrity, upon your intimating your desire of it I will send you both, & leave it with you to request of him copies of what I wrote & he answered. I do not by anything herein contained mean to pronounce for certainty that the Col is guilty of what he hath been charged with saying, but that I am not the author of the report, know of no cabal or plot in the matter, & have been designed by acting no part in any ridiculous farce.
I am sorry that I have been obliged to give your Excellency this trouble upon so disagreeable a subject, but think I cannot with decency as an American citizen under the strongest obligations to you for your patriotic exertions & military services, or in consistency with the friendship I have always sincerely professed, go into the steps I propose without first acquainting you with my design. considering the Col’s being one of your family.…


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 2 May 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Morris Town [New Jersey]May 2d. 1780
Dr. Sir,
I am extremely sorry your Excellency has been troubled with the affair to which the papers transmitted in your letter of this morning relate. Admitting the possibility of Doctor Gordons not being the author of what I must always call a calumny, and had he not been an irreconcileable enemy to plain dealing, the matter might have been brought to a very easy issue, without the necessity of an appeal to you. My determination however on the contents of his letter will be a very summary one. I shall not follow him in his labored digressions, because the sense of some of them is to me unintelligible, and the rest do not merit an answer.
So far from being disposed to comply with the Doctor’s conditions to avoid an inquiry, I consider the proposal he makes as a finishing stroke to that display of absurdity, littleness and effrontery, which characterises the whole proceeding on his part; and I defy the utmost extent of his malignity and intrigue. I shall ever continue to hold him in the highest contempt—to ⟨think⟩ him to be the conniver of the charge against me ’till he gives up some other person as the author, and to represent him as such to all those with whom, I have occasion to converse on the subject. I shall always speak of him in those terms which a sense of injury, and conviction of his worthlessness dictate.
I hope Your Excellency will excuse the asperity of my expressions, which my respect for you would induce me to suppress, did I not owe it to my sensibility, wounded by the most barbarous attack upon my reputation and principles, to speak without reserve. I flatter myself, You Sir, are too well acquainted with my way of thinking to entertain the least doubt of my innocence; and I beg leave to assure you, that nothing will give me greater pleasure than to have the matter properly investigated. I am only apprehensive that the Doctor will so manage it as that it will be found inexpedient to bring it to a public discussion, and that the knowledge of circumstances will be confined to a few to be handed about as may best suit his purposes, to the prejudice of my character. Your Excellency too, I trust, will see the propriety of that delicacy, by which I am withheld from making any formal appeal to public authority in my own justification. ’Tis the business of my accuser to bring me to justice, and by anticipating him, I should not fail to incur the imputation of self-importance.
I have the honor to be   Your Excellency’s   Most Obedient and humble servant
Alex Hamilton

I return Yr. Excelly the papers from Doctor Gordon.


Title: George Washington to Marquis de Barbé-Marbois, 5 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Barbé-Marbois, Marquis de

Morristown [New Jersey] May 5, 1780. Acknowledges Barbé-Marbois’s letter of thanks for attentions paid him during his visit to Camp.


Title: George Washington to Chevalier de la Luzerne, 5 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Chevalier de

Morristown [New Jersey] May 5, 1780. States gratitude for La Luzerne’s visit and intention to “represent the Army in so favourable a light” to the French King.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Marquis de Barbé-Marbois, [6 May 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Barbé-Marbois, Marquis de

[Morristown, New Jersey, May 6, 1780]
Sir
The day before yesterday I had the honor of your letter of the 29th. of April, transmitting the latest Philadelphia papers. I immediately sent them to the officer commanding on the lines to be exchanged in persuance of the plan which has been preconcerted. The papers expected in return are not yet arrived, the moment they do, they shall be forwarded. ’Tis probable our first experiment may meet with some little delay; but I hope the exchanges hereafter will be made with punctuality.
I was happy in the occasion which your journey to camp afforded me of giving you marks of my esteem and attachment. I shall seize every future opportunity to add to them and cultivate your favourable sentiments. Col Meade arrived in good health the day after he parted with you. He and the other Gentlemen of the family beg you to accept the assurances of their esteem.
The General sends by this conveyance some New York papers to Congress. In one of them is an address from the corporation of Dublin to the King and another to the Lord Lieutenant, expressing in strong terms their satisfaction at the late measures of Administration for the relief of Ireland. The addresses are dated the 6th of January last, anterior to the advices we have of the proceedings in the Irish House of Commons and of the Volunteer corps; yet I confess I do not like their complexion. They breathe too much a disposition to be satisfied.
Mr. Rivington has driven The Chevalier from Philadelphia to avoid the popular fury and has put him to a violent death at Morris Town.
The 2d. instant a frigate arrived at New York express; in six weeks passage from England. No other advices by her are announced, but the arrival of the Spanish Admiral and four other ships (taken by Sir George Rodney) in the harbour of Portsmouth.
May I request the favour of you to present my most respectful compliments to His Excellency, and assure him of my intire devotion?

I have the honor to be with every sentiment of the most perfect consideration   Sir   Your most Obedient   and Humble serv
A Hamilton
Morris Town May 1780
The General has this moment received a letter from the Marquis De la fayette, who is arrived at Boston the 27th. of April and was immediately to set out for Head Qrs. I believe he is charged with something of importance.
Advice from New York says Paul Jones with three or four ships is off the Coast and has driven in some British frigates that the Russel of 74 was preparing with these to go in quest of him.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Jedediah Huntington, 8 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Jedediah

Morristown [New Jersey] May 8, 1780. Asks Huntington to inquire into the circumstances of Major Benjamin Throop’s affair.


Title: George Washington to Isaac Woodruff, 8 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Woodruff, Isaac

Morristown [New Jersey] May 8, 1780. Reports that he has asked Brigadier General Jedediah Huntington to inquire into Major Benjamin Throop’s affair.


Title: George Washington to Major Lemuel Trescott, 9 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Trescott, Lemuel

Morristown [New Jersey] May 9, 1780. Gives Trescott permission to “ascertain the strength of the party at Bull’s ferry and to make an attempt upon it.”


Title: George Washington to Chevalier de la Luzerne, 11 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Chevalier de

Morristown [New Jersey] May 11, 1780. Requests “detail of the land and Sea forces arriv’d at Martinique.” Reports arrival of Lafayette with news from French court.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Duane, 14 May 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Duane, James

[Morristown, New Jersey] May 14. 1780.
My dear Sir
This will be handed you by the Marquis, who brings us very important intelligence. The General communicated the substance of it in a private letter to you & proposes a measure which all deem essential. For God’s sake, my Dear Sir, engage Congress to adopt it & come to a speedy decision. We have not a moment to lose. Were we to improve every instant of the interval, we should have too little time, for what we have to do. The expected succour may arrive in the beginning of June, in all probability it will not be later than the middle. In the last case we have not a month to make our preparations in, and in this short period we must collect men, form magazines, and do a thousand things of as much difficulty as importance. The propriety of the measure proposed is so obvious that an hour ought to decide it, and if any new members are to come, they ought to set out instantly with all expedition for Head Quarters.
Allow me my Dear Sir to give you a hint. The General will often be glad to consult the Committee on particular points, but it will be inexpedient that he should be obliged to do it oftener than he thinks proper or any peculiar case may require. Their powers should be formed accordingly. It is the essence of many military operations, that they should be trusted to as few as possible.
The Marquis has a title to all the love of all America; but you know he has a thousand little whims to satisfy—one of these he will have me to write to some friend in Congress about. He is desirous of having the Captain of the Frigate in which he came complimented and gives several pretty instances of his punctuality & disinterestedness. He wishes Congress to pass some resolutions of thanks & to recommend him to their Minister in France, to be recommended to the French Court. The first of these is practicable. The last I think might have an officious appearance. The essential services the Marquis has rendered America in France give him a claim for all that can be done with propriety; but Congress must not commit themselves.
Again my Dear Sir, I must entreat you to use the spur on the present occasion. The fate of America is perhaps suspended on the issue; if we are found unprepared it must disgrace us in the eyes of all Europe, besides defeating the good intentions of our allies, and losing the happiest opportunity we ever have had to save ourselves. Adieu my Dear Sir.
Believe me to be with the truest respect and Affection, Your most Obt. Servt.
A. HamiltonMay 14. 1780
Hon. James Duane PhiladelphiaHond. by Marquis De La Fayette.


Title: George Washington to James Duane, 14 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Duane, James

Morristown [New Jersey] May 14, 1780. Proposes that a small committee with all necessary power, rather than Congress, should handle proposed cooperation with French fleet and army. Believes that “we shall probably fix the independence of America if we succeed.” Would like to see Philip Schuyler, Robert R. Livingston, and James Duane on committee.


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

Morristown [New Jersey] May 16, 1780. Gives reasons why first objective of the French fleet should be New York. Reiterates the importance of having Comte de Guichen “come upon this Coast without delay.”


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

Morristown [New Jersey] May 16, 1780. Encloses two letters for Major General Benjamin Lincoln. Discusses advantages and disadvantages of raising the siege of Charleston. Asks for “speedy” opinion on a suitable place of debarkation, if French fleet should proceed south.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 17 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Morristown [New Jersey] May 17, 1780. Forwards from Lieutenant Colonel Fleury a request for an extension of furlough.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Marquis de Barbé-Marbois, [18 May 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Barbé-Marbois, Marquis de

[Morristown, New Jersey, May 18, 1780]
I have the pleasure to inform you that the Commanding Officer on Staten Island has agreed to the proposed exchange of papers; and the inclosed are a commencement of the plan. They contain nothing.
We have several rumours from New York of accounts received there that affairs to the Southward the last of April or the beginning of May were in statu quo; the enemy had made no material progress since the last advices. This if true is a very good symptom.
The enemy have a detachment between Hackensack and the North River foraging and cutting wood, and have lately sent a number of vessels up the latter river. They probably are endeavouring to lay in a stock of forage and fuel against future exigencies. ’Tis not easy to obstruct them where they now are.
I have the honor to be with all possible attachment   Yr. most Obed
A Hamilton
May 18th.
Punctuality in sending the papers on our part will conduce to it on that of the enemy.
Mr. De Marbois


Title: George Washington to George Clinton, 18 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Morristown [New Jersey] May 18, 1780. Reports sailing of French fleet and army. States that men and supplies will be needed. Requests that legislature remain assembled until Congress takes necessary measures. Directs Clinton to send men to relieve regiment at Fort Schuyler.


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

[Morristown, New Jersey, May 19, 1780.] Suggests that the two proclamations signed by Lafayette be issued to the Canadians for the purpose of confusing the enemy. Suggests adding a paragraph to the proclamations addressed to the “Savages.”


Title: George Washington to Vicomte de la Touche-Tréville, 19 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Touche-Tréville, Vicomte de la

[Morristown, New Jersey] May 19, 1780. Forwards packet from the Marquis de Lafayette.


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

[Morristown, New Jersey, May 20, 1780.] Reports that the Vicomte de la Touche-Tréville has departed. States that Major General Nathanael Greene will supply wagons. Hopes committee from Congress will not be delayed and that the Chevalier de la Luzerne will visit Camp soon. Asks Lafayette to hurry to Camp.


Title: George Washington to the Committee of Cooperation, 24 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Committee of Cooperation

Morristown [New Jersey] May 24, 1780. Asks Committee to examine its powers to find if “they will enable you as far as is practicable in our circumstances, to draw forth the resources of the Country.”


Title: George Washington to James Craik, 24 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Craik, James

Morristown [New Jersey] May 24, 1780. Asks Craik to proceed to Providence to establish a hospital for receiving the sick of the French fleet.


Title: George Washington to the Committee of Cooperation, 25 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Committee of Cooperation

Morristown [New Jersey] May 25, 1780. Approves of circular letter which the committee plans to issue to the states, but wishes to have greater emphasis placed on problem of obtaining men. Considers drafting only “efficacious” means of obtaining men.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Brigadier General Henry Knox, [28 May 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Knox, Henry

[Morristown, New Jersey, May 28, 1780]
The General requests you to furnish two Grasshoppers and a company of Artillery to be attached to the New York Brigade which marches tomorrow morning toward Albany.


Title: George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 28 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Morristown [New Jersey] May 28, 1780. Instructs Howe to convey the New York Brigade from Kings Ferry to Newburgh.


Title: George Washington to Joseph Reed, 28 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Joseph

Morristown [New Jersey] May 28, 1780. Discusses the “circumstances of our allies as well as our own” and emphasizes necessity of cooperation with France.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Marquis de Barbé-Marbois, [31 May 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Barbé-Marbois, Marquis de

[Morristown, New Jersey, May 31, 1780]
I have the honor to inclose you several late papers from New York. We have not yet gotten into a right train, but I am promised for the future that if the papers are forwarded regularly on our part, the exchanges will be made with regularity.
I am sorry to inform you that a Hand-bill was published at New York dated the 29th. by authority giving an account of the surrender of Charles-Town with its whole Garrison the 12th. ’Tis said Governor Rutlege has also been taken, and that Lord Cornwallis with a detachment was penetrating the Country. The Hand bill goes by this opportunity to Congress. The account comes by the Iris which left Charles Town the 17th. bound for Halifax, but having taken some prizes on the voyage she put into New York to dispose of them. She brought no dispatches for that place; but her captain Hawkes gives the intelligence. The Camilla with official advices had sailed from Charles Town and was momently expected.
This is no more than I have looked for since the defence of the bar was relinquished! Tis a severe stroke, but it is in vain to repine. We must endeavour to remedy it. It may indeed be useful to us in the present juncture by keeping the enemy’s force divided and giving a new motive to the exertions of the States. But it must be confessed, if it is a blessing, ’tis a blessing in a very strange disguise.
I have the honor to be with every sentiment of consideration   Your most Obed
A Hamilton
Morris Town May 31st 80


Title: George Washington to the Committee of Cooperation, 31 May 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Committee of Cooperation

Morristown [New Jersey] May 31, 1780. Approves of plan in the Committee’s circular letter; but takes “the liberty to submit to the Committee the necessity and propriety of calling immediately upon the states for specific aids of men provision forage and the means of transportation.” States that men and supplies should be apportioned among the states from New Hampshire to Virginia “having regard to the resources of each and their relative position to the probable scene of our operations.” Emphasizes importance of an understanding between the states and the Army.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the Officer Commanding a Party of Continental Troops, 1 June 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Officer Commanding a Party of Continental Troops

[Morristown, New Jersey] June 1, 1780
Mr. Stockton informs his Excellency that a number of articles belonging to him were plundered out of the waggons in the late robbery by the tories in the Clove, part of which articles he has reason to believe are distributed among the inhabitants in the neighbourhood. The General directs will give Mr. Stockton all the assistance in your power to recover his property.


Title: George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 1 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Morristown [New Jersey] June 1, 1780. Reports fall of Charleston, South Carolina, and news of reported sighting of British fleet off Sandy Hook. Sends instructions for obtaining supplies for the defense of West Point.


Title: George Washington to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 1 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

Morristown [New Jersey] June 1, 1780. Asks Wadsworth to use his influence with Governor Jonathan Trumbull to obtain aid requested.


Title: George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 4 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Morristown [New Jersey] June 4, 1780. Asks Gates “whether the situation of [his] private affairs will permit [him] to take the field this campaign or not.”


Title: George Washington to Chevalier de la Luzerne, 5 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Chevalier de

Morristown [New Jersey] June 5, 1780. Sends expressions of good will and appreciation.


Title: George Washington to the Council of War, 6 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Council of War

Morristown [New Jersey] June 6, 1780. Presents the present situation of American, allied, and enemy forces. Asks council what plans should be adopted for the next campaign.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Charles Stewart, 7 June 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Stewart, Charles

[Morristown, New Jersey] June 7, 1780. “The General requests you to come to Head Quarters immediately.…”


Title: George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 10 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Heights above Springfield [New Jersey] June 10, 1780. Warns of probable attack on West Point. Instructs Howe to send Colonel Stephen Moylan’s regiment to Camp.


Title: George Washington to the Committee of Cooperation, 12 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Committee of Cooperation

Springfield [New Jersey] June 12, 1780. Asks committee to check rumor that some states are not attempting to complete their quotas of men. Discloses that force requested is as small “as can give us any prospect of a decisive effort.”


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Nathaniel Heard, 12 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heard, Nathaniel

Springfield [New Jersey] June 12, 1780. Instructs Heard to collect all cattle and horses “within five miles of the water from Newark to Amboy.”


Title: [From Alexander Hamilton to Chevalier de Ternay], [13 June 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Ternay, Chevalier de

[Cape Henry, Virginia, June 13, 1780]


Title: George Washington to the Committee of Cooperation, 13 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Committee of Cooperation

Springfield [New Jersey] June 13, 1780. Approves of plan for quartermaster’s department. Asks committee to fix salaries of officers so that the department can be immediately activated.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Brigadier General Nathaniel Heard, 14 June 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Heard, Nathaniel

Springfield [New Jersey] June 14, 1780. Orders Heard to deliver all horses to the quartermaster general and “all the Cattle unfit for immediate use to the Contractor of the Country.”


Title: George Washington to Daniel Marsh, 14 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Marsh, Daniel

[Springfield, New Jersey] June 14, 1780. Sends instructions concerning cattle that is being collected by Brigadier General Nathaniel Heard.


Title: Examination of James Dickson by Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, [15 June 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Springfield, New Jersey, June 15, 1780.] Contains information concerning the British troops and New Jersey “volunteers” in the vicinity.


Title: George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 15 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Springfield [New Jersey] June 15, 1780. Describes British “incursion into the Jersies.” Fears attack on West Point and orders McDougall to West Point.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 18 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Springfield [New Jersey] June 18, 1780. Reports that British are still at “Elizabeth Town point,” and that Sir Henry Clinton has arrived from the South. Asks Congress to urge Pennsylvania to send “forward the drafts, they have already made.” States a need for wagons. States that “not a single draft has yet joined the Army … and here we are in the middle of June.” Emphasizes urgent need for cooperation between states, Congress, and Army.


Title: George Washington to Joseph Reed, 19 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Joseph

Springfield [New Jersey] June 19, 1780. Informs Reed of arrival of Admiral Arbuthnot and British fleet. Asks for “the aid of two hundred and fifty teams.”


Title: George Washington to the Committee of Cooperation, 20 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Committee of Cooperation

Springfield [New Jersey] June 20, 1780. Advises Committee that Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons is being sent to Connecticut for “collecting, arranging and forwarding the drafts and recruits from that state to the army.”


Title: George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, 20 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan

Springfield [New Jersey] June 20, 1780. Reports that Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons is being sent to Connecticut to “receive arrange and forward to the Army, the Drafts and recruits which may be furnished for the Continental Battalions in consequence of the late requisitions of the Committee of Congress.” Asks Trumbull to assist Parsons.


Title: George Washington to the Board of War, 21 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

Springfield [New Jersey] June 21, 1780. Requests board to order recall of infantry of Major Henry Lee’s corps.


Title: George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 21 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Springfield [New Jersey] June 21, 1780. Instructs Greene to “take the command of the troops left at this post and the vicinity,” to cover the country and public stores, and to secure information concerning enemy.


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Henry Knox, 21 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

[Springfield, New Jersey] June 21, 1780. Instructs Knox to transport the flour at Trenton, New Jersey, to New Windsor, New York.


Title: George Washington to Major Richard Claiborne, 23 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Claiborne, Richard

Rockaway Bridge [New Jersey] June 23, 1780. Instructs Claiborne to proceed to Morristown to check on removal of stores and baggage.


Title: George Washington to the Committee of Cooperation, 23 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Committee of Cooperation

Rockaway Bridge [New Jersey] June 23, 1780. Reports that enemy is marching toward Morristown. Emphasizes need of redoubled efforts by the states. Urges Committee to move from Morristown as it “is become an ineligible place.”


Title: George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 23 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Rockaway Bridge [New Jersey] June 23, 1780. Reports that British are marching in two divisions to West Point. Sends instructions for defense of the works.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Colonel Elias Dayton, [24 June 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Dayton, Elias

[Whippany, New Jersey, June 24, 1780]
Dear Colonel,
I am sorry that we have not yet been able to get a return for the papers I last sent you, as the Minister makes it an object to have them in regular sucession. I send you some late Philadelphia papers, which I entreat you to get exchanged and if possible to get all the papers since the last exchange.
Your’s with great resp
Alex Hamilton
June 24th.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 25 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Whippany [New Jersey] June 25, 1780. Describes movements of the two Armies. States doubt concerning enemy’s objective, but believes that it is probably West Point.


Title: George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Jean-Baptiste Gouvion, 26 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Gouvion, Jean-Baptiste

Pequannock [New Jersey] June 26, 1780. Directs Gouvion to proceed to West Point.


Title: George Washington to George Clinton, 27 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Ramapo [New Jersey] June 27, 1780. Approves measures taken by legislature. Explains that unless the Continental battalions are completely filled there can be no success in the proposed cooperation.


Title: George Washington to George Clinton, 27 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Ramapo [New Jersey] June 27, 1780. States that Major General Robert Howe has been ordered to dismiss the militia. Emphasizes necessity of completing Continental battalions.


Title: George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 27 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Ramapo [New Jersey] June 27, 1780. States that with addition of Connecticut line and present position of the Army the troops at West Point will be sufficient for its defense. Orders Howe to dismiss militia.


Title: George Washington to Major General William Phillips, 29 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Phillips, William

[Ramapo, New Jersey] June 29, 1780. Refuses Phillips’s request to go to Philadelphia to meet Major General Benjamin Lincoln.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, [30 June 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Laurens, John

[Ramapo, New Jersey, June 30, 1780]
I received my Dear Laurens a letter from you which came by Mr. Ternant; and I since learn you are arrived at Philadelphia on a parole restricted to the State of Pensylvania. I regret the loss of Charles Town as a public misfortune. I regret it, as it affects my friends and among these I need not tell you how much my heart distinguishes your case. I know what you must suffer ⟨to⟩ have your hands tied up at a crisis so important as the present. I have talked to the General about your exchange; but the rigid rules of impartiality oppose our wishes. I am the only one in the family who think you can be exchanged with any propriety, on the score of your relation to the Commander in Chief. We all love you sincerely; but I have more of the infirmities of human nature, than the others, and suspect my self of being byassed by my partiality for you. Could not the Board of War be engaged to direct your exchange? It would be a handsome compliment to the Commander in Chief and obviate clamours; but my friend let me give you a caution. Don’t appear too impatient of your situation nor too solicitous of being freed from it. Though I should be satisfied you acted from a laudable desire to be useful; others might give your conduct a construction to your prejudice. You must not have the air of bearing captivity worse than another.
You have heard how the enemy made an incursion into the Jerseys and made an excursion out of it, how the Continental troops and Militia behaved with singular spirit, how the enemys Vessels have been dancing up and down the North River, and how they have at length thought proper to sit down quietly in New York. You have also heard how we have made a very good show with very little substance. My Dear Laurens, our countrymen have all the folly of the ass and all the passiveness of the sheep in their compositions. They are determined not to be free and they can neither be frightened, discouraged nor persuaded to change their resolution. If we are saved France and Spain must save us. I have the most pigmy-feelings at the idea, and I almost wish to hide my disgrace in universal ruin. Don’t think I rave; for the conduct of the states is enough most pitiful that can be imagined. Would you believe it—a German baron at the head of five thousand men, in the month of June insulted and defied the main American army with the Commander in Chief at their head with impunity, and made them tremble for the security of their magazines forty miles in the country.
We have now before us a golden opportunity: we have applied to the states for means completely within their power; we have done everything that could operate on their fears and on their hopes. They have complied by halves, and if we attempt any thing, we must do it on the principle of despair; when we had it in our power to do it with a moral certainty of success, if we had properly exerted our resources. We are however still trying to rouse them, and it is still possible we may have a glorious campaign. I wish as far as you think yourself at liberty you would give me a confidential view of the progress of your affairs Southward.
Have you not heard that I am on the point of becoming a benedict? I confess my sins. I am guilty. Next fall completes my doom. I give up my liberty to Miss Schuyler. She is a good hearted girl who I am sure will never play the termagant; though not a genius she has good sense enough to be agreeable, and though not a beauty, she has fine black eyes—is rather handsome and has every other requisite of the exterior to make a lover happy. And believe me, I am lover in earnest, though I do not speak of the perfections of my Mistress in the enthusiasm of Chivalry.
Is it true that you are confined to Pensylvania? Cannot you pay us a visit? If you can, hasten to give us a pleasure which we shall relish with the sensibility of the sincerest friendship.
Adieu God bless you.
A Hamilton
Ramapough June 30th. 1780
The lads all sympathize with you and send you the assurances of their love.
Is Portail with you; if he is, present me to him affectionately.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Baron von Steuben, [30 June 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Steuben, Baron von

[Ramapo, New Jersey, June 30, 1780]
Agreeable to your request my Dr Baron I communicated your pro[po]sal to the General. Happily the inactivity of the enemy has given us time to make dispositions which render the calling out the Militia unnecessary; and the whole has been accordingly countermanded.
The General requests that when you have completed the objects of your errand in your departments and put things in train you will rejoin the army.
I wrote you a line from Whippany of which you make no mention.
I have the honor to be   Yr Most Obed Serv
A Hamilton ADC
Hd. Qrs. Ramapaugh
June 30th.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, [June–October 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Schuyler, Elizabeth

[June–October, 1780]
I wrote you, my dear, in one of my letters that I had written to our father, but had not heard of him since, that the operations in the islands hitherto cannot affect him, that I had pressed him to come to America after the peace. A gentleman going to the island where he is, will in a few days afford me a safe opportunity to write again. I shall again present him with his black-eyed daughter, and tell him how much her attention deserves his affection and will make the blessing of his gray hairs.


Title: George Washington to the Board of War, 4 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

Bergen County [New Jersey] July 4, 1780. Asks Board to comply with Brigadier General Henry Knox’s request for military stores.


Title: George Washington to Joseph Reed, 4 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Joseph

Bergen County [New Jersey] July 4, 1780. States that “legislature of Pennsylvania has vested you, in case of necessity with a power of declaring Martial law throughout the state, to enable you to take such measures as the exigency may demand.” Urges Reed to use this power to complete Continental battalions.


Title: George Washington to Meschech Weare and Jeremiah Powell, 4 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Weare, Meschech,Powell, Jeremiah

Bergen County [New Jersey] July 4, 1780. Requests powder for Army. Explains importance of Continental battalions.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, 6 July [1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Schuyler, Elizabeth

Col Dey’s house BergenCounty [New Jersey] July 6th. [1780]
Here we are my love in a house of great hospitality—in a country of plenty—a buxom girl under the same roof—pleasing ⟨expect⟩ations of a successful campaign—and every thing to make a soldier happy, who is not in love and absent from his mistress. As this is my case I cannot be happy; but it is a maxim of my life to enjoy the present good with the highest relish & to soften the present evil by a hope of future good. I alleviate the pain of absence by looking forward to that delightful period which gives us to each other forever; and my imagination serves up such a feast of pleasure as almost makes me forget the deprivation I now experience. But alas my Dear girl this does not always do. The illusion will not always sooth[e]; my heart every now and then cries: You are separated from the lovely partner of your life; four long months must elapse before this separation ends; your sweet girl with nothing to engage or divert her attention is perhaps suffering the keenest anxiety for the situation of her lover not only absent from her but exposed to a thousand imaginary dangers.
But my dearest quiet your apprehensions (for I know your tender fond mind is of too apprehensive a cast) and let your thoughts run only upon those delights which our reunion will afford.
Assure yourself my love that you are seldom a moment absent from my mind, that I think of you constantly and talk of you frequently, I am never happier than when I can engage Meade in some solitary walk to join me in reciprocating the praises of his widow and my betsey.
Adieu my angel, be happy and love me as well as I love you
A Hamilton
July 6th.
I wrote you a few days since to the care of Col Hay. Yr Father is now at Head Qrs. well. My love to Mama.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, [6 July 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wayne, Anthony

[Preakness, New Jersey, July 6, 1780]
Dr. General.
Dr. W. Mendy is one of those characters that for its honesty, simplicity, and helplessness interests my humanity.
He is exceedingly anxious to be in the Service and I believe has been forced out of it not altogether by fair play. He is just what I should like for a military parson except that he does not whore or drink. He will fight and he will not insist upon your going to heaven whether you will or not. He tells me there is a vacancy in your Brigade. I should be really happy if through your influence he can fill it. Pray take care of the good old man.
Yrs affectionately
A. Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Marquis de Barbé-Marbois, 11 July [1780]
From: Barbé-Marbois, Marquis de
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia le 11. Juillet. [1780]
Nous avons sçu ici que le desir du Général a été que l’offrande des dames de Phaladelphie et même de la Pensylvanie fut employée en achat de chemises pour le Soldat. Toutes les femmes ont applaudi à cette idée, elles ont pensé que pour rendre la souscription beaucoup plus avantageuse au Soldat il seroit à propos de les charger elles mêmes de ce detail. Elles proposent donc, que le produit de leur offrande soit versé en totalité dans la caisse de la Banque recement formée par des marchands et autres Citoyens de Philadelphie, on recevra en echange des billets de Banque avec lesquels les Dames acheteront elles mêmes la toile nécéssaire. Elles esperent, que les marchands qui la leur vendront, se montreront egalement généreux en renonçant à toutes especes de Benefice. La toile ainsi achetée sera divisée entre les femmes de Philadelphie qui se chargeront avec le plus grand plaisir et sans salaire comme Vous pouvés croire d’en faire elles mêmes des chemises. Elles pensent qu’en suivant ce plan le produit de la souscription se trouvera au moins avoir doublé de valeur et l’on m’assure qu’il y a ici mille ou douze cent familles qui entreprendront volontiers de faire chacune une demi douzaine de chemises. Quand je vous ai parlé ci dessus de verser dans la Banque le produit de la souscription, ce n’est pas que je pense que le Soldat y trouvera un benefice considerable, c’est principalement pour lier ensemble tous les projets patriotiques et soutenir les uns par les autres. Je Vous prie de vouloir bien faire usage de ces idées si vous les trouvés justes, mon cher Colonel; le desir des Dames est que rien ne se fasse que conformement aux intentions du Général. Si donc il donne son approbation à la marche qui vient d’être indiqué il seroit à desirer qu’il voulut bien en donner avis a Made. la Présidente Reed plutôt que plus tard. Quant à moi en vous transmettant L’opinion de nos Dames je desire que Vous ayés la bonté de la communiquer à Son Excelce. en lui presentant l’hommage de mon profond respect et en lui disant que je ne suis uniquement que l’organe des patriotes Pensylvaniennes.
Vous connoissés mon cher Colonel, les sentiments que je vous ai voués pour la vie.
De Marbois
P.S.   Voulés Vous bien dire a Mr. le Mis. de la Fayette que les femmes de Philadelphie ont été infiniment flattées de voir parmi leurs noms celui de Made. la Marquise de la Fayette.


Title: George Washington to Major Henry Lee, 11 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry

[Bergen County, New Jersey] July 11, 1780. Orders Lee to Monmouth, New Jersey, to assist Brigadier General David Forman. Sends instructions for aiding and contacting French fleet on its arrival.


Title: George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 14 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

[Bergen County, New Jersey] July 14, 1780. Directs Greene to send George Olney to New London to receive clothing, arms, and ammunition expected from France.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 14 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Bergen County [New Jersey] July 14, 1780. Informs Congress of arrival of the French fleet off Newport. Encloses plan for inspector general’s department.


Title: George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, 14 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan

[Bergen County, New Jersey] July 14, 1780. Is sending George Olney to New London to receive clothing, arms, and ammunition which is arriving with the French fleet. Requests that Trumbull use his authority to furnish wagons and teams to transport these goods. Hopes to begin “operations at a very early period.”


Title: George Washington to Brigadier General Henry Knox, 15 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

[Bergen County, New Jersey] July 15, 1780. Informs Knox that objective of siege is to be New York. Instructs Knox to bring forward all cannon and stores as quickly as possible.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Baron von Steuben, 16 July 1780
From: Steuben, Baron von
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Fishkill, New York, July 16, 1780. On July 23, 1780, Hamilton wrote to von Steuben: “I have received My Dear Baron your two letters of the 16th. and 18th.” Letter of July 16 not found.]


Title: George Washington to Major Henry Lee, 16 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry

[Bergen County, New Jersey] July 16, 1780. Asks Lee to confirm or contradict report that Admiral Thomas Graves has arrived at “the Hook.” Reports that the French fleet has appeared off Rhode Island.


Title: George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, [16 July 1780]
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Comte de

[Bergen County, New Jersey, July 16, 1780.] Welcomes Rochambeau. Is sending the Marquis de Lafayette to New London to meet with Rochambeau to “fix our plan of operations.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Baron von Steuben, 18 July 1780
From: Steuben, Baron von
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Fishkill, New York, July 18, 1780. On July 23, 1780, H wrote to von Steuben: “I have received My Dear Baron your two letters of the 16th. and 18th.” Letter of July 18 not found.]


Title: George Washington to the Baron von Steuben, 18 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Steuben, Baron von

[Bergen County, New Jersey] July 18, 1780. Approves of von Steuben’s measures. Sends information about light infantry. Cites unconfirmed report that Admiral Thomas Graves is off Sandy Hook.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, 19 July 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Laurens, John

[Preakness, New Jersey, July 19, 1780. On July 30, 1780, Laurens wrote to Hamilton: “Your letter tho dated the 19th. did not reach me till yesterday.” Letter not found.]


Title: George Washington to Major Henry Lee, 19 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry

[Bergen County, New Jersey] July 19, 1780. Instructs Lee to report on the situation at Monmouth every two days. States that pilots need not remain at Monmouth.


Title: George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 19 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Comte de

[Bergen County, New Jersey] July 19, 1780. Acknowledges receipt of dispatches. States that “on our part we shall make every effort in our power.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Marquis de Barbé-Marbois, [20 July 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Barbé-Marbois, Marquis de

[Preakness, New Jersey, July 20, 1780]
I communicated My Dear Sir to the General your ideas of an union between the patriotic males and females; which he relished so well that he has taken the first opportunity to write to the Presidentess recommending it. I hope the proposal may be approved as it will be useful.
You will have heard before this gets to hand of the arrival of the Counte De Rochambeau and of the Chevalier De Ternay, of the arrival of Admiral Graves with 6 ships of the line. He sailed from the Hook the night of the 17th or morning of the 18th no doubt bound for Rhode Island with Nine sail of the line two fifties and two 44s with several smaller frigates. According to the idea I have of the port of Rhode Island, it is in the power of the French fleet with the aid of land batteries to make dispositions by which they may defy a much larger force than that with Graves. This is the critical point of the cooperation; it is to be hoped we may experience no misfortune. I send you a few papers. The business goes on very ill, though I hope to put it in a better train when we become nearer neighbours.
New York in all probability will be our object; if we can have a naval superiority, I shall not doubt our success; if we have not the event will be very precarious; and in success the advantages infinitely less. The enemy will save a great part of their army; stores & their shipping of course will be safe, and the whole may fall upon some other part where we may be vulnerable.
I shall take occasion to assure you that it appears clear to a demonstration that with a superiority by land and sea you can infallibly possess the port of New York, and by seige or blockade, reduce the whole fleet and army. What will be done or can be done to secure an object of such magnitude, I cannot judge; only of this I am confident that your court will do every thing possible. The proofs she has already given would make it ingratitude to doubt her future intentions. With the truest attachment I have the honor to be Yr. most Obed & hum
A Hamilton
(I write here confidentially)
Hd. Qrs. July 20th.
Mr. De Marbois


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, [20 July 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Schuyler, Elizabeth

[Preakness, New Jersey, July 20, 1780]
It is an age my dearest since I have received a letter from you; the post is arrived and not a line. I know not to what to impute your silence; so it is I am alarmed with an apprehension ⟨of your⟩ being ill. Sometimes I suspect a ⟨– – –⟩ of your letters. Sometimes my anx⟨iety accuses⟩ you of negligence but I chide my⟨self⟩ whenever it does. You know ⟨very well⟩ how precious your letters are to m⟨e and⟩ you know the tender, apprehensive ⟨amia⟩ble nature of my love. You know the pleasure that hearing from you gives ⟨me.⟩ You know it is the only one I am now capable of enjoying. After all you certainly would not neglect ⟨me⟩ if you possibly could. Here am ⟨I⟩ immersed in business, yet every d⟨ay or⟩ two I find leisure to write to my a⟨ngel;⟩ the reason is you are never out ⟨of⟩ my thoughts, and if I had but one hour in the four and twenty to rest ⟨all⟩ of it would be devoted to you. I do not say this to reproach you with unkindness. I cannot suppose you ca⟨n,⟩ in so short an absence, have abated ⟨your⟩ affection; and if you even found any change, I have too good an opin⟨ion⟩ of your candour to imagine you would not instantly tell me of it.
Pardon me my lovely girl for any thing I may have said that has the remotest semblance of complaining. If you knew my heart thoroughly you would see it so full of tenderness for you that you would not only pardon, but you would even love my weaknesses. For god’s sake My Dear Betsey try to write me oftener and give me the picture of your heart in all its varieties of light and shade. Tell me whether it feels the same for me or did when we were together, or whether what seemed to be love was nothing more than a generous sympathy. The possibility of this frequently torments me.
The French fleet and army, that is the first division of them, is arrived at New Port; another division is shortly expected. Graves with six ships of the line is arrived at New York, which makes the British for the present superior. They are gone to Rhode Island; but if our friends there take proper measures they can effect nothing and the tables will soon turn. I hope for a decisive campaign. No one will desire it more than me; for a military life is now grown insupportable to me because it keeps me from all my soul holds dear. Adieu My love. Write to me often I entreat you, and do not suffer any part of my treasure, your sweet love, to be lost or stolen from me.
AH
My Affectionate respects to your Mama and love to the family
July 20th.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 20 July 1780
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Totowa [New Jersey] July 20, 1780. “The troops will move from this Ground at 3. OClock … should His Excellency have anything particular to mention or Recommend, I will wait on him if Necessary.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Marquis de Lafayette, [21 July 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

[Preakness, New Jersey, July 21, 1780]
My Dear Marquis
We have just received advice from New York through different channels that the enemy are making an embarkation with which they menace the French fleet and army. Fifty transports are said to have gone up the Sound to take in troops and proceed directly to Rhode Island.
The General is absent and may not return before evening. Though this may be only a demonstration yet as it may be serious, I think it best to forward it without waiting the Generals return.
We have different accounts from New York of an action in the West Indies in which the English lost several ships. I am inclined to credit them.
I am My Dear Marquis   with the truest affection   Yr. Most Obedt
A Hamilton   Aide De Camp
Hd. Qrs.July 21st 80


Title: George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 21 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Comte de

Colonel Dey’s [New Jersey] July 21, 1780. Reports rumor that English are embarking troops in order to attack French fleet and army.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to James Duane, [22 July 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Duane, James

[Preakness, New Jersey, July 22, 1780]
I take the liberty my Dear Sir to request your interest for a friend of mine and a member of the family, Dr McHenry. He wishes to quit a Station which among foreigners is not viewed in a very reputable light and to get into one more military. He will go into the Marquis’s family as an aide. He has been in the army since the commencement of the War—first in the medical line, since the 15th of May 78, as a Secretary to the Commander in Chief. You know him to be a man of Sense and merit. A more intimate acquaintance with him makes me hold him as such in an eminent degree. He has now no military existence properly speaking—no rank. I believe he is not immoderate. For my own part were I to decide for him considering his length of services, his merit, the relation in which he has stood, I would give him a Majority. I have no doubt my Dear Sir, you will be glad to serve Mr. McHenry from motives of justice, of friendship to him and (shall I not add) of friendship to me.
We have nothing here which you are probably not acquainted with except that Graves returned the 20th to the Hook, and that the enemy seem to be preparing an embarkation at New York with which they menace our allies— Whether they are in earnest is to be doubted. Fifty transports went up the Sound to take in Troops as was given out.
General Wayne has been making a forage at Bergen, and endeavoured to reduce a block house there, but his Cannon which were very light made no impression and he did not choose to Storm, in which he was certainly right. He had a few men killed and wounded. This is the account we get from himself, though a report runs that he attempted to Storm and met with a severe loss. This is my inducement for giving you the true State to save you anxieties which you might otherwise experience. Adieu, My Dear Sir, Believe me to be with unfeigned attachment   Your Most Obed. Sr.
Alex Hamilton
Hd. Qrs. July 22d.
Mr. Duane


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Brigadier General Henry Knox, [22 July 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Knox, Henry

[Preakness, New Jersey, July 22, 1780]
The alliance is not come nor our arms, nor our powder. They probably will come with the second division we want to know what we can do in the meantime in the article of arms without those; will you send us immediately a memmorandum of what we have to your knowledge? Do you know whether the Eastern States can furnish any on loan and in what proportion. We must borrow of them and borrow of our allies, if we cannot we must go to sleep.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 22 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Preakness [New Jersey] July 22, 1780. Has sent “definitive proposals of co-operation to the French General and Admiral.” Is proceeding on assumption that the states “will ultimately consult their own interest and honor; and not suffer us to fail for want of means which it is evidently in their power to afford.” Reiterates need for transportation.


Title: George Washington to the States of Massachusetts and Connecticut, 22 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: States of Massachusetts and Connecticut

Bergen County [New Jersey] July 22, 1780. Requests loan of two thousand arms and as many “Cartouch Boxes” as can be spared.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Baron von Steuben, [23 July 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Steuben, Baron von

[Preakness, New Jersey, July 23, 1780]
I have received My Dear Baron your two letters of the 16th. and 18th. On the formation the light infantry, The General has already written to you. I presume it will be ultimately nearly as you have proposed.
Smith set out some days since to join you. Bradford, I am told is undecided about entering into the office. Col Scammell has promised to bring him to me, and if he accepts we will forward him.
I believe Trescot will be appointed in the light infantry. Entre nous tis not easy to find good Majors for the corps in the Massachusettes line; and as it will act a good deal with the French troops, we wish it (for this additional reason) to be well officered. Trescot will answer the purpose; but he is not yet to know that he is in contemplation.
We shall not long continue in our present position. The distinctions of departments are an old story which now do not exist except with respect to South Carolina. You are with a detachment of the main army.
I dare say all you are doing will be found right. I shall join my beau pere to save you from the cord.
The arrangement for your department was unfortunately sent to Congress soon after you went from here with the most pressing instances to determine upon it without delay. We have heard nothing of it since. We have repeated our prayers and exhortations. If we get no answer in three or four days we must determine for ourselves.
Major Francs is returned from Philadelphia; but I have not seen him since the arrival of your letter. I will make the inquiry you wish when I see him. Can you do any thing for him in your department?
A severe stroke upon us is that our arms expected from France are not arrived. I do not know how we shall be able to arm our recruits.
Graves sailed from the Hook the 19th. He had been playing off and on two days.
Adieu My Dear Baron and believe me always with the most respectful attachmen[t]   Yr. most Obed
A Hamilton
Hd. Qrs. July 23d.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Major General William Alexander, Lord Stirling, [24 July 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Alexander, William

[Preakness, New Jersey, July 24, 1780]
My Lord.
By His Excellys. command I am to request you will be pleased to put General Hands brigade under marching orders to move by break of day tomorrow morning. He will see General Greene and take orders from him. An impress of waggons is the object. I have the honor to be with the truest attacht. Yr Lordships Most Obedt. serv.
Alex Hamilton   Aide De Camp
Hd. Qrs.July 24th. 80


Title: George Washington to Major Henry Lee, 24 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry

[Bergen County, New Jersey] July 24, 1780. Directs Lee to drive off all horses “fit for waggon or riding service” and “fat Cattle” in Monmouth County, New Jersey, and to deliver them to the quartermaster general. After executing this business Lee is to proceed to Easton, Pennsylvania, to impress teams.


Title: George Washington to Marquis de Lafayette, [27 July 1780]
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

[Preakness, New Jersey, July 27, 1780.] Believes that shortages of arms makes Lafayette’s plan to take New York impractical. Reports that British embarkation is still rumored. Hopes to take advantage of Sir Henry Clinton’s move to Rhode Island.


Title: George Washington to Chevalier de la Luzerne, 27 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Chevalier de

[Bergen County, New Jersey] July 27, 1780. Repeats rumors concerning British plans to attack French fleet and army.


Title: George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 27 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Comte de

[Bergen County, New Jersey] July 27, 1780. Confirms report of British embarkation. States that the Army is ready to march to New York to endeavor to take advantage of Sir Henry Clinton’s absence.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens, 30 July 1780
From: Laurens, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia] July 30, 1780. Has executed Hamilton’s commission by arranging for a tailor to make a hat for him.


Title: George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 30 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

Robinson’s, Highlands [New York] July 30, 1780. Empowers Greene to impress in Pennsylvania and New Jersey as many teams as are necessary.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 30 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Paramus [New Jersey] July 30, 1780. Requests Congress to take measures to induce Major General Nathanael Greene and other officers of the quartermaster department to continue their services. Explains that unless this is done “we not only must cease the preparations for the campaign; but shall in all probability be obliged to disperse, if not disband the army for want of subsistence.”


Title: George Washington to Colonel William Malcom, 30 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

General Howe’s Quarters, Robinson’s [New York] July 30, 1780. Orders Malcom to proceed immediately to West Point with militia under his command.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, 31 July 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Schuyler, Elizabeth

Robinson’s Farm[New York]July 31st. 1780
Here we are my Betsey on our way to New York. I hope we shall take it and hasten the happy period of our restoration to each other. Have no fears for me; for I can and will take care of myself.
Since my last I have received three letters from you, the sweetest ever dictated by a fond heart. Banish your uneasiness my love; I discard for ever, every idea injurious to your tenderness which every thing convinces me is without an equal but in mine. I have no time to indulge my heart by dwelling on those assurances which it delights to be ever giving you of its admiration, of its esteem of its love. My life shall be a continued proof of the unbounded affection of your

I have received the stocks and thank my dearest for her kind attention.


Title: George Washington to Moore Furman, 31 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Furman, Moore

Robinson’s [New York] July 31, 1780. Empowers Furman to impress teams in New Jersey.


Title: George Washington to Colonel Morgan Lewis, 31 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lewis, Morgan

Robinson’s [New York] July 31, 1780. Empowers Lewis to impress “Boards, plank and scantling” in Albany.


Title: George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 31 July 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Comte de

Highlands [New York] July 31, 1780. States again that the British fleet has sailed to Rhode Island. States that the army cannot march to Rochambeau’s aid, but that it will try to be useful by menacing New York.


Title: George Washington to Major General Arthur St. Clair, 1 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: St. Clair, Arthur

Peekskill [New York] August 1, 1780. Writes that Lafayette is to be given command of the Corps of Light Infantry. Asks St. Clair to assume command until Lafayette returns.


Title: George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 3 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

Peekskill [New York] August 3, 1780. Informs Congress that Sir Henry Clinton has returned. Describes resultant movements of Army.


Title: George Washington to Marquis de Lafayette, 3 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

Peekskill [New York] August 3, 1780. Asks Lafayette to present the situation as it exists to the French commanders and let them decide what course of action they wish to follow. Believes that a major siege must await arrival of second French division. Believes that “a communication may be secured with Long Island by Land batteries.” Reports that the British expedition has returned to New York.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to New-York Packet, [5 August 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: New-York Packet

[Peekskill, New York, August 5, 1780]
Certain intelligence having been received that Sir Henry Clinton had embarked the principal part of his force, and had proceeded to Huntington bay on his way to Rhode Island to make a combined attack upon the fleet and army of our allies now there, His Excellency General Washington marched from his camp at Prackness the 29 of July and crossed the North River the 31st; where a junction was formed with the troops under the command of Major General Howe. His Excellency had resolved in case the enemy should continue their course to Rhode Island to march immediately to New York and attack it. All the necessary preparations were made for this purpose, when intelligence arrived that the enemy had put back the 31st Ulto. It is to be regretted that they did not go on with their intended expedition, as our allies were well prepared to receive them and they could have met with nothing but disgrace and defeat in that quarter; while in this we had every reason to expect from the number and spirit of our troops the most decisive and glorious success. Sir Henry no doubt relinquished his project in consequence of this movement of our army; and it must be confessed that he abandonned it with much more prudence than he undertook it. The object for which the army crossed the river having ceased, the whole recrossed the 4th. instant and are marching towards Dobbes ferry, in prosecution of the original plan formed for the campaign.


Title: George Washington to Marquis de Lafayette, 5 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

[Peekskill, New York] August 5, 1780. Regrets that the Chevalier de Ternay is adverse to entering New York harbor. Entreats Lafayette to “ascertain the probability of a succour coming from France and the West Indies.”


Title: George Washington to Chevalier de la Luzerne, 5 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Chevalier de

Peekskill [New York] August 5, 1780. Sends description of naval force under the command of Admiral Arbuthnot.


Title: George Washington to Comte de Rochambeau, 5 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Comte de

Peekskill [New York] August 5, 1780. Approves of measures taken by Rochambeau. Describes movements of British and American armies. Is awaiting arrival of second French division.


Title: George Washington to the Board of Admiralty, 6 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of Admiralty

[Peekskill, New York] August 6, 1780. Inquires about putting the “Continental Frigates” under his orders.


Title: George Washington to Chevalier de Ternay, 6 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Ternay, Chevalier de

[Peekskill, New York] August 6, 1780. Requests advice about employment of Continental frigates.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, [8 August 1780]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Schuyler, Elizabeth

[Dobbs Ferry, New York, August 8, 1780]
Immediately after dinner, I stole from a croud of company to a solitary walk to be at leisure to think of you, and I have just returned to tell you by an express this moment going off that I have been doing so. You are certainly a little sorceress and have bewitched me, for you have made me disrelish every thing that used to please me, and have rendered me as restless and unsatisfied with all about me, as if I was the inhabitant of another world, and had nothing in common with this. I must in spite of myself become an inconstant to detach myself from you, for as it now stands I love you more than I ought—more than is consistent with my peace. A new mistress is supposed to be the best cure for an excessive attachment to an old— if I was convinced of the success of the scheme, I would be tempted to try it— for though it is the pride of my heart to love you it is the torment of it to love you so much, separated as we now are. But I am afraid, I should only go in quest of disquiet, that would make me return to you with redoubled tenderness. You gain by every comparison I make and the more I contrast you with others the more amiable you appear. But why do you not write to me oftener? It is again an age since I have heard from you. I write you at least three letters for your one, though I am immersed in public business and you have nothing to do but to think of me. When I come to Albany, I shall find means to take satisfaction for your neglect. You recollect the mode I threatened to punish you in for all your delinquen[c]ies.
I wrote you a long letter by your father. I suppose you will wait his return before you write. If you do I shall chide you severely and if you do not write me a very long and fond one by him, I shall not forgive you at all. I have written you a short letter since that. We are now at Dobbes ferry.
I would go on but the General summons me to ride. Adieu My Dear lovely amiable girl. Heaven preserve you and shower its choicest blessings upon you. Love me I conjure you.
A Hamilton
Aug 8th


Title: George Washington to Brigadier Generals Anthony Wayne and William Irvine, 11 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony,Irvine, William

Tappan [New York] August 11, 1780. Explains why appointment of Major William Macpherson cannot be revoked.


Title: George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 12 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

[Orangetown, New York] August 12, 1780. Instructs Greene to retain the teams mentioned in Greene’s letter.


Title: George Washington to Chevalier de la Luzerne, 16 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Chevalier de

Orangetown [New York] August 16, 1780. Encloses letter from Rochambeau. States that Rochambeau approves of engaging the German deserters. Writes that the Chevalier de Ternay has asked that a vessel loaded with flour be conveyed to Boston and that the sloop Saratoga be sent to the West Indies with dispatches. Has written to Board of Admiralty for its compliance in these matters.