Title: To George Washington from General William Howe, 5 February 1778
From: Howe, William
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 5th Febry 1778.

By Advices lately received from Rhode Island, transmitting to me a Copy of a Letter from General Heath to Lieutenant General Burgoyne, (Copy of which is enclosed) I am informed that it is determined to detain General Burgoyne’s Troops in New England, until all Demands for their Provisions and other Necessaries are satisfied; and that this Determination is grounded, not only upon a Requisition of mine for Provisions to be sent in for the Subsistence of the Prisoners in my Possession, and for the Purchase of other Necessaries, but upon a Forgery of my Agents, Emissaries, and Abettors, of what are called Continental Bills of Credit. This last Allegation is too illiberal to deserve a serious Answer: With regard to the other, I know not from what Expression in any of my Letters to you, it has been understood, that I made the Requisition alluded to. You know that the Allowance of Provisions to Prisoners, from the Beginning of my Command, has been equal in Quantity and Quality to what is given to our own Troops not on Service: If

you had thought this insufficient, you might have directed a farther Supply from the Markets, & were likewise at Liberty to send in whatever Articles you thought proper, from the Country. The Allowance of Fuel has been also regulated, as well as our Means would admit, and a similar Permission of Purchase, or Supply from you, has never been refused. My Letter of the 21st of April last, explained to you the Extent of Relief afforded to the Prisoners. Clothing, and some other Necessaries, they had a Right to expect from those who had been the Occasion of their being exposed to the Chance of Captivity; and that Idea I have ever understood to be mutual—But notwithstanding the Remonstrances I made to you upon that Point, finding that Supplies were not sent in, my Humanity interposed on Behalf of the unfortunate Men in our Possession, and, on a late Representation of their Distress, I permitted in this City the purchase of Blanketting and such other Necessaries as the Severity of the Winter required, and without which they must absolutely have perished.
Confident as I am that you will acknowledge this to be a just Recital of Facts, I cannot but think it unnecessary to say any thing farther, either upon the Cruelty, falsely alledged to have been exercised against the Prisoners, or the unjust Reflections you have been so often induced to transmit to me upon that Head.
In Consideration however of the real and unavoidable Distresses of the Prisoners on both Sides, as well as to put and End to all fruitless Altercation on the Subject, I shall consent to an immediate Exchange of all Prisoners now in our Possession, as well Officers as private Men, so far as the Numbers of the latter, and parity of the Rank of the former will admit—In the mean time I shall wait the Arrival here of the British Officers whom you have released upon their Paroles, and shall without Delay send an equal Number to you in Return.
With Regard to the Accompt for Provisions and other Necessaries, which I find, by General Heath’s Letter, is become a Pretext for infringing, if it is not intended as an absolute Breach of, the Convention of Saratoga, I do readily agree to the immediate Appointment of Commissioners on your Part and on mine, to settle that Accompt, together with all other Accompts for Provisions &ca furnished the Prisoners on either Side, and to make Payment of the Balance.
You have only to name your Commissioners (two will I think be sufficient) and appoint a convenient Place and Time for their meeting two Gentlemen on my Part, to terminate the Business. The Exchange of Prisoners, and the Accommodation of the Difference that has so long subsisted between us upon that Score, may be adjusted at the same Time by the same Commissioners, upon an equitable Plan, as formerly proposed by yourself.

These Propositions, founded as they in great Measure are, upon your own Suggestions, I consider as now mutually agreed upon between us, and therefore I must hope to find that you are capable of carrying them finally into Execution without permitting any Set of Men to interfere at their Pleasure with such Authority as has been vested in you for the Exchange of Prisoners, and for the Decision of all Matters relating to them.
As I have no Objection to the earliest Meeting of the Commissioners for completing the Exchange and liquidating the Accompts, I trust there will be no new Impediment to the Release of General Burgoyne’s Troops, but that you will immediately give such Orders for their Embarkation, upon the Arrival of the Transports at Boston, as will remove every Difficulty. With due Respect I am Sir, your most obedient Servant

W. Howe

P.S. Your Letters of the 20th and 30th January are received, and shall be answered in a few Days.


Title: To George Washington from John Laurance, 5 February 1778
From: Laurance, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Camp Great Valley [Pa.] February 5th 1778

In compliance with your Excellencys desire I have perused the Articles of War with Attention—As they now stand I have found them answer to every Case that has happened since I have acted as Judge Advocate—No alteration occurs to me that is necessary to be made except the restriction in the Number of Lashes, and the Authority of ordering Courts martial for the Trial of Capital offences—Desertion has been a Crime very prevalent in our Army during the last Campaign, it deserves, undoubtedly, a severe punishment, as it strikes at the Existence of the Army; and if not checked will be productive of fatal Consequences. Should the greater part of the offenders be punished with Death, it is probable the frequency of Examples of that kind might loose that Effect on the Minds of the Soldiers, they would be intended to have; and deprive the Service of more men, than it could well spare. The punishing them with Stripes might deter them from the like Act, but the Number allowed to be inflicted, are too few to answer the desired purpose—Soldiers who have transgressed in the General, must be made to feel in order to prevent their committing the like Acts in future—One hundred Lashes are considered by the generality of them, as a trivial punishment, so much so that many of them care little about it—It is evident from the many Courts Martial that have been held in our Army this last Campaign, that the extent of Punishment allowed by the Congress has been insufficient to answer the purposes it was designed for. I am induced to think it would be conducive to the good of the Service if The Honble Congress should repeal that part of the 3d Article Section 18th of the Articles of war, and leave Courts martial at Liberty to sentence offenders to receive as great a Number of Lashes, as they conceive an adequate punishment for the Crime, according to the Nature and Degree of it.
As the Articles of war now stand, The Commander in Chief and The Continental General commanding in either of the American States, for the time being are the only Persons Authorized to appoint General Courts martial for the Trial of Capital offences—As it often happens that a large Detachment of the Army is stationed at a Post at some distance from the place where the Commander in Chief, or the Continental General commanding in the State where the Commander in Chief is not, has his Quarters, also large Detachments of the Army on their march from one place to another—The situation of these Detachments may be such, that an application to the Commander Chief, or to the Continental General commanding in the State, might be exceedingly inconvenient and occasion much Delay in the Trial of the

offenders, during this time the Culprits must be kept in confinement, by which means the Continent will lose their personal Services, and the good Effects of a recent Punishment destroyed. I should think that in such Cases it would be beneficial to the Service for the Honble Congress either to give the Commander in Chief Authority or the Continental General commanding in the State for the Time being, to delegate Power to any commander of a detachment not under the Degree of A——to appoint General Courts Martial for the Trial of Offenders and to approve or disapprove their Sentence, or to empower the Commanding officer of such Detachments not under the Degree of  to order such General Courts Martial to be held, and to approve or disapprove their sentences.
I beg leave to mention to your Excellency that since I have been in the Service the business of my Department has kept me in constant Employment. Yet much has oftentimes remained undone, as the number of officers under arrest, and Soldiers and Inhabitants in confinement, has been so great, that their Trials have often times been longer delayed, than has been consistent with the good of the Service, or satisfactory to myself. Tho’ I have exerted myself to the utmost I have not been able to complete the business of my Department, as expeditous as I could have wish’d, having no assistance. I have made free to mention this matter to your Excellency as I have understood the Committee of Congress, now here, are vested with Powers to adopt any Measure they may conceive beneficial to the Service.
If the officers in the General Staff of the Army should have their Commissions made valuable, As my monthly Pay is the only allowance I have in the Service I should if the Nature of my office would admit its be⟨mutilated⟩ glad of being put on a similar footing. I am With much Respect Your Excellencys Obedient and very humble s⟨mutilated⟩

John Laurance J⟨mutilated⟩


Title: To George Washington from George Read, 5 February 1778
From: Read, George
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Christiana Bridge [Del.] Febry 5th 1778.

I am sorry to inform your Excellency that our Legislature have not made any Provision for filling up of the Battalion belonging to the State. One of our Counties is yet unrepresented in the House of Assembly owing to the interference of the Military on the day of Election, this Step occasioned such a division among the Representatives of the other two Counties, that it was impracticable to allay the ferment at two Sittings which have been had since. I have issued Writs for calling them a third time and wou’d fain hope it will be attended with better Effects, but I cannot venture to Answer for them. You may be Assured of every Exertion on my part. Previous to your Letter of the 19th Ulto delivrd to me on the 25th I pressed General Smallwood to Order out three recruiting parties, one for each County as the whole of our Battalion Officers could not be necessary for the Command of about 100 effective privates. I had two things in View, the Chance of picking up some recruits, and the Means of Convincing our Legislature that this Mode of filling up the Battalion wou’d be inadequate; such parties were sent out the beginning of this Week. I am well convinced that Drafting is the most effectual Method and will be least burthensome to the State, but in times like the present the Assent of very many are necessary to publick Measures.
As to Cloathing I have heretofore represented to your Excellency that it’s Manufacture within the State always was and still is inconsiderable, We lost many of our small Stocks of Sheep by the British Plunderers, and the last Year’s Crop of Flax failed very generally. Fortune threw some Cloths in our way lately that will be sufficient for more than

our Battalion Consists of at present, if you do not Order otherwise; they were taken out of A Schooner, deserted by her Crew, and after forced on our Shore by the Ice. Several of our People as well as others from Jersey were busily employed in gutting of her, when A detachment of the Delaware Battalion, at the instance of Brigadier Patterson, was sent to take into Possession such of the Cargo as might be of Use to the Army. Cloths and Spirits were the only two Articles. A dispute arises between the State and those of its inhabitants, who saved the Goods from this Wreck, as to the Property, but in whomsoever it may be determined, I apprehend our Battalion shou’d have the preference of such part of the Cloths as Suited for their Uniform, and at the request of the Field Officers I wrote to General Smallwood making Claim to them. As he declines to allow the Claim until he shall receive your dire[c]tion therein I have sent A Copy of my Letter to him and his Answer, least in the Multiplicity of Business he shou’d delay Stating that Claim to your Excellency, for if decided in our favour the Cloths may be immediately made up by A Number of Workmen, whom Col: Pope has collected at Dover. I do not mean by this Step any distrust of General Smallwood, or Wish for your determination but through him, yet I know how much his time is taken up with supplying the defect of duty in others, particularly in the Commissary of Purchases Department, of which I believe he has great reason to Complain as well as the Inhabitants of New Castle and Chester Counties, the person I particularly allude to is A Mr Huggins, whose Credit among the Graziers was very low long before General Smallwood came to Wilmington; his Certificates, his Mode of pay, may be purchased at A considerable discount, this is such A discouragement that A great part of the Supplies lately are got by Stealth or Force—and it is the more so as A Mr McGarmont in the Neighbouring County of Kent, acting in the same line, pays regularly for the like Articles within his district. the number of our Graziers will be greatly diminished in the ensuing Season as well from the Situation of many of our feeding Grounds, on the Shore of the Delaware, as the irregular Conduct of the purchasing Commissary and his Agents.
Immediately on the receipt of your Letter of the 19th of December I issued Orders for the March of General Patterson’s Brigade consisting of Three Battalions of Militia in New Castle County to join General Smallwood at Wilmington, agreeable to your requisition, but true it is that A very few Obeyed. The Penalty prescribed in our Militia Law for such refusal is so small and the Mode of Recovery so tedious that we have little power to Exercise over Delinquents. I have repeated the Orders and have also extended them to the Militia of Kent County, and shall urge the Legislature at their Meeting on the 17th Instant to devise some more speedy and effectual way to Compel their immediate

Service. My Situation is rather unlucky in A Government very deficient in its Laws and those greatly relaxed in their Execution, A Legislature as yet incompleat and not disposed to unite and give Aid to the executive Authority. I should have inform’d your Excellency of the fate of my Orders before, but being on A Visit to my family near to the Susquehanna in Cæcil County I was taken Ill and Confined there for three Weeks, and on my return I was told by General Smallwood that he had wrote to you on the Subject I hope this will Apologize for this late report of mine—and I am with great respect Yor most Obedt Servt

Geo: Read


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General George Weedon, 5 February 1778
From: Weedon, George
To: Washington, George

Dr sir
Valley Forge Febry 5th 1778

Since the Commencment of Hostilities in America, we have on our parts observed as far as I have been able to judge a strict line of honor and humanity towards those of the Enemy who the Chance of war put into our hands, Or, who came over to us in the Charecter of Deserters. While we have Acted upon those generous principles & administered comfort to the unfortunate Captive, the Enemy on their parts pursue a different line towards our unhappy prisoners with them. loading our Virtuous Troops with unheardof distresses in order by Accumulating Evils to Compel them to bair Arms against their Country.
That of enlisting German Prisoners was ever a Custom, And Enlisting Deserters and prisoners from an Enemies Army is no new thing in War, It is however a measure that has it’s inconveniencies when they are Annexed to troops Operating against their Army I would, however beg leave to recommend it in the Strongest Terms on the present Occation. Congress we see have Resolved on retaliation in the fulest extent. I should be sorry to see your Excellency adopt any measure Repugnant

to the Systematical customs of our Enemy and the known Usage of War, And in this, we have the most recent Examples and are fully Authorized upon every principle to adopt the measure. Corps made up from among the Deserters and prisoners who should Volunteerly engage in our Service might answar every purpose on the Western Waters, and would hereafter be a very great Acquisition to that Country, The greater part of them would become Inhabitants after the Troubles were over, would Settle and protect the Country from Savage invasions, Would introduce Agriculture, Trade & Manufacturs, and while our unhappy disputes last would serve to Garrison any posts in the interiour parts of our Country, while the Continental Troops employed in such Service might be drawn into the Field.
I beg leave to Submit the propriety of this measure to your Excellencies Consideration & Am with Due Rgd Yr Excellencies Most Obd. Servt

G.W.


Title: General Orders, 6 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Friday Feby 6th 1778.
Winchester—Weston Wells.

At a General Court Martial whereof Coll Clark was President January 27th Lieutt William Williams of 13th Virginia Regiment tried for repeatedly behaving unbecoming the Character of an officer and a Gentleman, 1st in buying a pair of Continental shoes from a soldier and thereby rendering the soldier unfit for service—2ndly for messing and frequently sleeping with the soldiers, taking their bread and not returning it by which the soldiers suffered with hunger—acquitted of the charge of taking the soldiers bread & not returning it by which they suffered with hunger, but found guilty of behaving unbecoming the character of the officer and gentleman in buying a pair of Continental shoes from a soldier, and in messing and frequently sleeping with the soldiers being a breach of 21st Article, Section 14th of the Articles of War and sentenced to be discharged from the service—His Excellency the Commander in Chief approves the sentence and orders it to take place immediately.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 6 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

Sir
Valley Forge the 6th February 1778

I must take the liberty of addressing you on a subject, which, though out of your sphere, I am fully persuaded, will have every possible attention in your power to give—It is the alarming situation of the Army on account of provision—Shall not undertake minutely to investigate the Causes of this, but there is the strongest reason to believe, that its existence cannot be of long duration, unless more constant, regular and larger supplies of the meat kind are furnished, than have been for some time past. We have been once on the brink of a dissolution in the course of the present year for want of this Article, and our condition now is but little better. What is still more distressing, I am assured by Coll Blaine, Deputy Commissary in the middle District, comprehending the States of Jersey—Pensylvania & Maryland, that they are nearly exhausted in this instance; and the most vigorous and active exertions on his part will not procure more than sufficient to supply the Army during this Month if so long. This being the case, and as any relief that can be obtained from the more Southern States will be but partial, trifling and of a day, we must turn our views to the Eastward and lay our account of support from thence—Without it we cannot but disband—

I must therefore, Sir, intreat you, in the most earnest terms, and by that zeal which has so eminently distinguished your character in the present arduous struggle, to give every countenance to the person or persons employed in the purchasing line in your State, and to urge them to the most vigorous efforts to forward supplies of Cattle from time to time; and thereby prevent such a melancholy and alarming Catastophre—As I observed before, this subject is rather out of your province; yet I know your wishes to promote the service in every possible degree, will render any apology unnecessary, and that the bare state of facts will be admitted as a full and ample justification for the trouble it is like to occasion you—I have the Honor to be with great Respect and Esteem Sir Your most obedient Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Buchanan, 7 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Buchanan, William

Sir,
Head Quarters Valley Forge 7th Feby 1778

The occasional deficiences in the Article of provisions, which we have often severely felt, seem now on the point of resolving themselves into this fatal crisis—total want and a dissolution of the Army. Mr Blaine informs me, in the most decisive terms, that he has not the least

prospect of answering the demands of the army, within his district, more than a month longer, at the extremity. the expectations, he has from other quarters, appear to be altogether vague and precarious; and from any thing, I can see, we have every reason to apprehend the most ruinous consequences.
The spirit of desertion among the soldery never before rose to such a threatening height, as at the present time—The murmurs on account of Provisions are become universal, and what may ensue, if a better prospect does not speedily open, I dread to conjecture. I pretend not to assign the causes of the distress, we experience, in this particular, nor do I wish, to throw out the least imputation of blame, upon any person. I only mean to represent our affairs as they are, that necessity may be proprerely felt, of exerting the utmost care and activity, to prevent the mischeifs; which I cannot forbear anticipating, with inexpressible concern. I am Sir Your most obedt servant

Go: Washington

P.S. I shall be glad to have from you a just state of what we have to expect, at the expiration of this month and in the course of the ensuing spring.


Title: From George Washington to Peter Colt, 7 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Colt, Peter

Sir,
[Valley Forge, 7 February 1778]

The present situation of the army is the most melancholy that can be conceived. Our supplies in provisions of the flesh kind for some time past have been very deficient and irregular—a prospect now opens of absolute want, such as will make it impossible to keep the army much longer from dissolving, unless the most vigorous and effectual measures be persued to prevent it. Jersey Pensylvania and Maryland are now intirely exhaus[t]ed—All the Beef & pork already collected in them or that can be collected, will not by any means support the army one month longer. Further to the Southward some quantities of salt provision have been procured; but if they were all on the spot they would afford but a very partial and temporary supply. The difficulty of transportation is great: The distance will not allow it to be effected, by land Carriage; and the navigation up Chesapeak bay is interrupted by the enemy’s vessels, which makes it very precarious when we shall get any material relief from that quarter—To the Eas[t]ward only can we turn our eyes with any reasonable hope of timely and adequate succour. If every possible exertion is not made use of there, to send us immediate and ample supplies of Cattle, with pain I speak the alarming truth, no human efforts can keep the army from speedily disbanding.
I have desired Col: Blain to give you a just state of our situation, and to send an active man in his department to you to hurry on to Camp whatever cattle you may be able to purchase. I cannot forbear, so urgent is the necessity of the case, accompanying his representation by a similar one from myself. You are ca⟨lled⟩ upon by every motive, that ought to influence you in your official capacity and as a well wisher to the army to strain every nerve and exert your utmost activity—towards affording us, the assistance we indispensably stand in need of and without a moments loss of time. I persuade myself you will duly consider the infinite importance of leaving nothing undone that may be in your power; and as I know the state of Connecticut abounds in the article we want—I flatter myself we shall not be left to feel the calamitous consequences with which we are now threatened.
Mr Blain will inform you of the quantity of cattle we require for an instant supply—to be at camp by the latter end of this month. This you will push forward with all expedition; and continue your most zealous endeavours to preserve us hereafter from experiencing the same distresses and embarrassments to which we have been heretofore too frequently exposed. I have written to Governor Trumbull to beg his concurrence and aid in this matter, of which I doubt not you will properly avail yourself.
I am informed there are considerable quantities of salt provisions

laid up in New England; as it is inconvenient, tedious and extremely expensive to transport them to this army, I have directed General Putnam, to make use of them almost wholly, for the troops under his command, and to let all the cattle that can be procured come on to us; which will be equally conducive to dispatch and œconomy. As far as this may depend upon you, I should wish the rule to be strictly observed. I am Sir Yr Hble servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from the Continental Congress Evacuation Committee, 7 February 1778
From: Continental Congress Evacuation Committee
To: Washington, George

Sir
York Town [Pa.] 7th February 1778

The Committee appointed on the 27th of August 1777 to collect evidence of the State of the Army in the Northern department & also the State of the Troops Military Stores & provisions at the Posts of Tyconderoga & Mount Independence before & at the time when the evacuation was determined upon—In obedience to an order of Congress of the 5th Inst. Copy of which will be transmitted by the President, now forward to Your Excellency in one Packet, an Orderly Book & two parcels of Papers which together with the Orderly Book, contain all the evidence the Committee have been hitherto able to collect.
Your Excellency will be pleased to give timely Notice to the Gentlemen who are appointed to assist the Judge Advocate in conducting the Trial. We are Sir Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servants—By desire of the Committee

Henry Laurens, one of the Members


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 7–10 February 1778
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Head Quarters Boston Feby 7[–10] 1778

I have received the honor of yours of the 2d Instant pr Captain Hopkins of Colo. Moylans Light Dragoons. shall afford him every assistance in my power.
Brigadier General Learned called upon me a day or two since and requested that I would transmit your Excellency the enclosed Certificates, and represent his present state of Health. In the Campaign of 1775 by a violent fall he received a breach which greatly incapacitates him for business especially in the winter. He cannot ride without much inconvenience, and if he happens to wet his feet, is attacked with the most excruciating pain. He has proposed to resign his Commission; but the Honble Mr Hancock & my self have persuaded him to delay it for the present, as in a Summers Campaign he may render his Country essential Service. He is anxious to know your Excellency’s pleasure.
Colonel Hazen was here a few days since to obtain several Articles requisite for the Troops intended to make the Irruption into the upper District of Canada. He requested that a small Scout of Ten or Twelve men might be sent from the upper Settlements on Kenebeck river to the french Settlements on Chaudier to spread a report of a large body of Troops coming that way. I have adopted the proposal and have ordered a party to proceed accordingly. I have directed them to proceed with all proper precaution, to report that they are sent forward to mark a road, and that a large Body of Troops are to follow, they are to enquire if provisions can be purchased for the Army, at what rate &c. and

indeed to hold up every colouring of deception, and to make a precipitate return, this may perhaps divert their force.
General Burgoyne has received the Resolve of Congress forbiding his Embarkation with much concern, rather than resentment. I have the honor to be With great respect Your Excellency’s Obedient Hble Servant

W. Heath

Feby 10th P.S. In consequence of the late resolutions of Congress for detaining the Troops of the Convention, I have had several applications from the Officers for permission to return to Europe on parole, or to be exchanged, in particular one from Lt Colo. Anstruther and another from Lord Napier, and I doubt not many others will apply. As the circumstances of the families of these Two Officers are particular I beg leave to recommend to your Excellency the Exchange of them or of Colo. Anstruther in particular whose whole conduct here has been very becoming the Gentleman & Soldier in his Condition. I have enclosed their letters to me to the Hone Congress.

W.H.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Ebenezer Learned, 7 February 1778
From: Learned, Ebenezer
To: Washington, George

Hond Sr
Oxford [Mass.] February 7th 1778

With the utmost Exartion I have Complyd with your Excellancies Direction to me of Jany 8th unless your Exellancy had Regard to Cols. Vanscayks & James Levingstons Regts of N. York State, that was left at Schanaitada, and Johnstown by Genl Gate’s order which Regts was anext to my Brigd. by Genl Schuyler—But not being Positive whether

it ware Intended by your Exellancy’s Direction to forward Detachments left at Posts they have ben at during the last campaign, I have not as yet given orders to them; but if they ware Intended I shall at the first Notice forward them.
And am very unhappy I have the Misfortune of Indisposition that I am unable Immediately to take the Field myself.
I have Sent Inclosd a coppy the certificate of my Surgeons—also Genl Gate’s Permit to me leaveing the Brigd. at Albany—but Shall make no delay as soon as able to Joyn again and shall with Pleasure (as far as able) obey every order from yo⟨ur⟩ Excellancy.
This Day I have it by an officer from Head Qurt. that my charicter is Impeeched and a complaint to your Excellancy against me I am Puzzled to know from what Quarter, or for what; it is said for conve[r]ting Publick Stores and Plunder to Private use—if this is aleg’d I am able I Determin any Minute to aquit myself of such accusation—and shall make it my first Business when able to Ride to camp. till when I am as ever your Excellancies very Humbl. Servt

Ebenezer Learned B:G.


Title: To George Washington from the Pennsylvania Supreme Executive Council, 7 February 1778
From: Pennsylvania Supreme Executive Council
To: Washington, George

Sir
In Council Lancaster [Pa.] February 7th 1778

Council had the honour to write to your Excellency on the fifteenth day of last month, in the words of the enclosed copy; and as the urgency of levying men to fill up the pennsylvania battalions, pressed on the spirits of the members, they wished to see officers for that purpose, appear. But after waiting some time, and finding none sent up, they have feared, that their letter had miscarried. However as General Wayne, when last here, was possessed of their plan of raising recruits and promissed to aid in finding the most suitable officers, they rested the business much on their letter, and the Generals know[n] zeal and industry in promoting the publick service. But they now apprehend that some accident has intervened, and at least delayed, this necessary business. They hope, that if it be not so, or that every thing is doing that can be expected, your Excellency will impute this renewal of their application, to a sense of the importance of the present moment. I have the honour to be with much respect Your Excellencys very humble servant

Tho. Wharton jun. Prest


Title: General Orders, 8 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Sunday February 8th 1778.
Zebulon.Zembla. Zealand.

The General Officers are requested to meet ten ôClock tomorrow morning at Genl Varnum’s quarters to take into consideration the propriety of altering the present ration. The Commissary Genl proposes that instead of the rations heretofore allowed there shall be issued a pound and an half of flour one pound of beef or three quarters of a pound of salt pork and a certain quantity of spirits—Mr Blaine will attend this meeting.
Officers who are desirous of taking Commissions in the company of sappers under the Command of Brigadier General Du Portail and possess the necessary qualifications, such as the knowledge of practical Geometry & drawing will give in their Names at the Adjt General’s office: Three Captains, three first & three second Lieutenants are wanting.
In future the Reveille will beat at daybreak; the troop at 8 in the

morning; the retreat at sunset and taptoo at nine ôClock in the evening—To render this duty uniform, the drummer’s call to be beat at the right of the front line and answered throughout that line; then through the second & Corps of Artillery begining at the left; The Reserve to follow the second line—Immediately upon this three rolls to begin and run through in like manner as the call; then all the drums of the Army at the heads of their respective Corps should go thro’ the regular beat, ceasing upon the right which will be a Signal for the whole to cease.
At a General Court-Martial whereof Coll Proctor was President Feby 5th 1778. Lieutt Grey of Coll Lamb’s Regiment of Artillery tried for absenting himself from Camp without leave, being guilty of theft and other behavior unbecoming the character of an officer and gentleman, found guilty of ungentleman, unofficer like behavior in absenting himself from camp without leave; associating with a soldier robbing and infamously stealing, unanimously sentenced to have his sword broke over his head on the grand parade at guard mounting, that he be discharged the Regiment and rendered incapable of serving any more as an officer in the Army and that it be esteem’d a crime of the blackest Dye, in an officer or even soldier to associate with him after the execution of this just, though mild punishment.
His Excellency the Commander in Chief approves the sentence and orders it to be put in Execution tomorrow morning at guard mounting.
At a General Court Martial whereof Colonel Clark was President Jany 22nd—Thomas Butler an Inhabitant of the State of Pennsylvania tried for attempting to carry flour into Philadelphia, found guilty of the charge being a breach of a Resolution of Congress dated October 8th 1777. extended by another resolution made for the purpose of cutting off all communication of supplies or Intelligence to the Enemy’s Army and sentenced to receive two hundred and fifty lashes on his bare back.
At the same Court Thomas Ryan an Inhabitant of the State of Pennsylvania tried for being taken on the night of 13th of January last in company with Thomas Butler with eight quarters of mutton and a bull beef on his way into Philadelphia found guilty of the charge being a breach of a resolution of Congress above mentioned and sentenced to pay the sum of fifty pounds and to be confined in the Provost guardhouse ’till that sum is paid to the Adjutant General to be applied for the use of the sick in Camp.
At the same Court January 22nd William Maddock an Inhabitant of the State of Pennsylvania tried for attempting to drive Cattle in to the Enemy, found guilty of the charge, being a breach of a resolution of Congress aforementioned and sentenced to pay the sum of one hundred

pounds and to be confined in the Provost-Guard-House until that sum is paid in manner aforesaid.
At the same Court-Martial Jany 26th—Joseph Edwards an Inhabitant of the state of Pennsylvania tried for attempting to drive Cattle in to the Enemy, found guilty of the Charge, being a breach as aforesaid, and sentenced to pay the sum of one hundred pounds and to be confined in the Provost Guard ’till that sum is paid to the Adjutant General, out of which twenty dollars shall be paid to each of the Light-horsemen who apprehended the prisoner as an encouragement for their Activity & good conduct the rest to be applied to the use of the sick in Camp.
At a General Court Martial whereof Coll Wigglesworth was President Feby 4th Philip Kirk tried for supplying the enemy with cattle, found guilty and sentenced to be confined in some Gaol in the State of Pennsylvania during the Enemy’s stay in it and both his real & personal Estate to be taken from him for the use of The United-States of America.
At the same Court-Martial John Williamson tried for supplying the enemy with Cattle found guilty of the Charge and sentenced to receive two hundred and fifty lashes on his bare back well laid on.
At the same Court David Dunn tried for supplying the enemy with Cattle found guilty and sentenced to receive two hundred & fifty lashes on his bare back well laid on.
At the same Court James Bowen tried for communication with the City of Philadelphia and acquitted.
At the same Court Jacob Gibbons tried for selling sheep to a butcher of Philadelphia and acquitted of the charge.
At the same Court Daniel Williamson tried for attempting to take a number of sheep into Philadelphia, found guilty of the charge being a breach as aforesaid and sentenced to receive two hundred lashes on his bare back.
The Commander in Chief confirms the aforegoing sentences, so far as they relate to corporal punishment, fines and imprisonment but remits the remainder being of Opinion that confiscation of property is a matter not cognizable by martial Law; The sentences of whipping to be put in execution tomorrow morning on the grand parade at guard mounting—A Surgeon from General Patersons Brigade to attend to see that the Criminals do not receive more lashes than their strength will bear. Tomorrow being the day appointed for opening the Market at the Stone-Chimney Picquet—The Army are desired to take notice of the same. Markets will be held at the same place every monday and thirsday.
On the east side of Schuylkill near the new-bridge every tuesday and friday and near the Adjutant General’s Office every Wednesday & saturday; certain prices having been affixed to the several Articles

mentioned in the hand-bills by a board of General-Officers, the same are to be strictly observed.
Printed hand-bills with the regulations at large will be delivered by the Adjutant General to the Brigadiers and officers commanding brigades, who are desired to have the same read at the head of each regiment in the brigade and endeavor to convince the officers and soldiers of the necessity and expediency of observing the same punctually.
As a proper person for the Clerk of the market is not yet appointed, the officer commanding the picquet guard at the Stone-Chimney is desired to see the regulations of the market observed; he is also desired to distribute the hand-bills among the market people who attend it; It is expected that the numbers will be but few tomorrow as the notice had not had sufficient time to circulate through the Country.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Joseph Ellis, 8 February 1778
From: Ellis, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Sir
Haddonfield [N.J.] Feby 8th 1778

It gives me the highest Satisfaction to find by yours of the 18th of Januy that my Appointment to the command of a Brigade is agreable to you, and am much oblig’d to Genl Green for the charecter he has been pleas’d to give of me—Nothing in my power shall be wanting to Excite a proper spirit among the people, and shall to the Utmost of my Ability give the most effectual Opposition to any parties of the enemy who may attempt to ravage our Coast. Our State having Supplyd the Troops when at Fort Mercer with some Amunition, with what has been

Expended among ourselves, has left us but a very small Quantity at this Quarter—I am therefore under the Necessity of Troubleing you for a Supply. Agreable to your directions I have Sent Lieut. Brown with a two Horse Waggon which I suppose may bring about Ten thousand Musket Cartriges. I have reason to Judge we may have Occasion for them pretty Soon as I am inform’d the enemy Intend to us a Visit. The Militia dont turn out so well as I could wish—It is impossible to Ascertain the Exact Number of our Men as their time of Service being so short the Numbers are continually Varying, but it Seldom or Never Exceeds 500. The Coast is Very Extensive; and I fear it will not be in our power to Guard every part effectually. Considerable Quantitys of Provision are carried to Philada which it is Not in our power totally to prevent; Altho we have taken a Considerable Number of Prisoners in that way, the Coast is so Extensive that many Escape. You may rest Assured that I shall Exert the Utmost of my power to prevent things of that Nature. I am with the greates[t] respect Sir Your Most obedt Servt

Jos. Ellis


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 8–14 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

Sir
Valley Forge February the 8[–14]th 1778

I have been duly honored with your Favor of the 3d Instant and with its Inclosure.
As General McDougal’s late severe illness and present feeble state will not permit him to proceed on the intended incursion into Canada, Baron de Kalb will follow the Marquiss agreable to his wish and the direction of Congress.
According to the promise contained in my last, I take the liberty of transmitting you Copies of such Letters, as have lately passed between General Howe & myself.
Feby 12th Since writing the above, I have received an other Letter from General Howe of the 5th Instant, Copy of which and of my Answer you have also inclosed. By these you will perceive, that he has proposed a General exchange of prisoners, and that I have acceded to it. I have written to Mr Boudinot, Commissary in this line, requiring his return to Camp, and shall give him directions to pursue the most speedy measures for accomplishing this business, so interesting to the unhappy Officers and Men in General How’s hands—and to the cause of Humanity. There are some other matters, as you will discover, which I could not enter upon.
The situation of the Affairs of the Army has not till lately made it convenient to go into the inquiry, directed by the Resolve of the 28th of November, of the losses of the Forts, Montgomery and Clinton in the state of New York, and of Fort Mifflin on Delaware. With respect to the two former, it happens that almost all the principal Officers acting

in that Quarter, were in some way or other so far concerned in the affair, as to make them improper for prosecuting the inquiry. I therefore propose to send Officers from this Army: If his health will permit, I should wish General McDougal to preside. His thorough knowledge of those posts and all their connexions qualifies him in a peculiar manner for the purpose. I have written to him on the subject.
With respect to Fort Mifflin, the inquiry involves very extensive considerations and more or less affects almost all the Genl Officers in this Army, whose advice and concurrence in the measures taken, make them in some degree parties. The mode in my opinion, most unexceptionable to be pursued is for Congress, to authorise a Committee of their own body, or to delegate any other persons they may chuse to intrust, not connected with the Operations of this Army, to go into the business.
Feby 14th Your several Favors of the 7th & that of the 8th Inst. were duly received yesterday evening.
As soon as circumstances will admit I shall appoint a Court Martial in the case directed, and shall notify the parties concerned of the same.
The Oath which Congress have prescribed to be taken by the Officers of the Army, I shall publish in General Orders, and the mode how it is to be done with directions about the Certificates.
I shall extend Lt Colo. Dyer’s Furlough to the first of April as required. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir, Your Most Obedient Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 8 February 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
[York, Pa.] 8th febry 1778

I beg leave to refer Your Excellency to a Letter which I had the honour of writing to you yesterday & last Night.
Your Excellency will receive herewith an Act of Congress of the 5th Inst. extending the furlough of Colo. Tho. Dyer and also an Act of the 3d Inst. & 5 Copies for obliging all Officers Military & Civil holding appointments under Congress to qualify themselves for acting in their respective Offices by taking certain Oaths therein prescribed—Your Excellency will be pleased to take the most effectual means for publishing this Act throughout the Army immediately under your Command—Copies will be sent to other departments of the Army & to each State—I remain with very great Regard.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General John Nixon, 8 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Nixon, John

Sir,
Head Quarters Valley Forge Feby 8th 1778

I have to request, that you will, immediately, make a return of the troops, under your command, belonging to the State of Massachusettes to the Assembly of that state. It is necessary this return should be very exact and particular, as it is intended for the information of the Assembly, in their arrangements towards completing their batalions. Among other things, you will specify, the time, or times, for which the men are engaged, and the number to each. You will also be pleased to forward me a duplicate of the same. I am Sir Your most Obedt servt.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Casimir Pulaski, 8 February 1778
From: Pulaski, Casimir
To: Washington, George

Sir
Trenton [N.J.] Feby 8th 1778

I have received your Excellys Letter inclosing a letter to governor Livingston which I have forwarded, I have received no flints. your letter was forwarded ⅌r a second Express—The Court martial Cannot Sit as the parties are not present, if your Excelly will please to order Colo. Moylan to attend or to Send his Charge & evidence the Court Shall be immediately order’d—I wait your Excellys further instruction on this article—& Remain with respect Your Excellys Very Humbl. servt

C. Pulaski Gnl of Cavalry


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 8 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dear Sir;
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] feby 8th 1778

I have to request, that you will, without loss of time, make a return of the troops under your command belonging to the state of Connecticut, to His Excellency Governor Trumball. It is necessary this return should be very exact and particular, as it is intended for the information of the

assembly, in the measures they may think proper to take, towards completing their batalions. Among other things, you will specify the time or times for which the men are engaged; and the number to each.
I shall also be glad of a complete return of all the troops at present under your command. I am with much regard Dr Sir Yr Most Obdt servt.


Title: From George Washington to Philip Van Rensselaer, 8 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Van Rensselaer, Philip

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 8th Feby 1778

I observe by a Return of military Stores made the 12th January that there were 5000 Muskets unfit for service in the Magazine at Albany. I most earnestly desire that you will use your utmost endeavours to have them put into repair by the opening of the next Campaign. I also observe by the same Return that there is a considerable deficiency of Bayonets, which you will endeavour to make up if you have Armourers skilled in that Branch of Business. The loss and abuse of Arms in the course of a Campaign, in which we are obliged to call in large Bodies of Militia, is so great, that unless the utmost attention is paid to the repair of the old, our Stock must soon be exhausted, for, of all the new imported last year it is amazing how few remain in the differint Magazines. As soon as you have any considerable quantity rendered fit for service be pleased to inform me that I may call for them when and where wanted. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: General Orders, 9 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Monday Feby 9th 1778.
AlexandriaAdams. Allen.

On account of the inclemency of the weather the sentences of Courts-Martial which were to be put in execution this morning are postpon’d ’till tomorrow morning nine ôClock in manner as specified in yesterdays orders.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 9 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir,
Head Quarters Valley forge Feby 9th 1778.

I was duly favoured with your Letter of the 23d of last Month; to which I shd have replied sooner, had I not been delayed by business that required my more immediate attention.
It is my wish to give implicit credit to the assurances of every Gentleman; but in the subject of our present corrispondence, I am sorry to confess, there happen to be some unlucky circumstances, which involuntarily compel me to consider the discovery you mention, not so satisfactory & conclusive as you seem to think it.
I am so unhappy as to find no small difficulty in reconciling the spirit and import of your different Letters, and sometimes of the different parts of the same Letter with each other. It is not unreasonable to presume, that your first information of my having notice of General Conway’s Letter came from himself; there were very few in the secret, and it is natural to suppose, that he being immediately concerned, would be most interested to convey the intelligence to you. It is also far from improbable, that he acquainted you with the substance of the passage communicated to me; one would expect this, if he believed it to be spurious, in order to ascertain the imposition and evince his innocence; especially as he seemed to be under some uncertainty, as to the precise contents of what he had written, when I signified my knowledge of the matter to him. If he neglected doing it, the omission cannot easily be interpreted into any thing else, than a consciousness of the reality of the extract, if not literally at least substantially. If he did not neglect it,

it must appear somewhat strange that the forgery remained so long undetected; and that your first Letter to me from Albany of the 8th of Decemr should tacitly recognize the genuineness of the paragraph in question; while your only concern at that time seemed to be “the tracing out the author of the infidelity, which put extracts from General Conway’s Letters into my hands.”
Throughout the whole of that Letter, the reality of the extracts is by the fairest implication allowed, and your only sollicitude was to find out the person, that brought them to light. After making the most earnest pursuit of the author of the supposed treachery, without saying a word about the truth or falsehood of the passage; your Letter of the 23d Ulto; to my great surprize, proclaims it “in words as well as in substance a wicked forgery.”
It is not my intention to contradict this assertion, but only to intimate some considerations, which tend to induce a supposition, that though none of Genl Conways Letters to you contained the offensive passage mentioned, there might have been something in them too nearly related to it, that could give such an extraordinary alarm. It may be said, if this were not the case, how easy in the first instance, to have declared there was nothing exceptionable in them, and to have produced the Letters themselves in support of it? this may be thought the most proper and effectual way of refuting misrepresentation and removing all suspicion. The propriety of the objections suggested against submitting them to inspection may very well be questioned: “The various reports circulated concerning their contents,” were perhaps so many arguments for making them speak for themselves, to place the matter upon the footing of certainty. Concealment in an affair, which had made so much noise, tho not by my means, will naturally lead men to conjecture the worst; and it will be a subject of speculation, even to candor itself. The anxiety and jealousy you apprehended from revealing the letter, will be very apt to be increased by suppressing it.
It may be asked why not submit to inspection a performance perfectly harmless and of course conceived in terms of proper caution and delicacy? why suppose that “anxiety & jealousy would have arisen in the breasts of very respectable Officers, or that they would have been unnecessarily disgusted at being made sensible fo their faults when related with judgment & impartiality by a candid observer”? surely they could not have been unreasonable enough to take offence at a performance so perfectly inoffensive, “blaming actions rather than persons,” which have evidently no connexion with one another, and indulgently “recording the errors of inexperience.”
You are pleased to consider General Conways Letters as of a confidential nature; observing that “time and circumstances must point out the propriety or impropriety of communicating such Letters”—Permit

me to enquire, whether, when there is an impropriety in communicating, it is only applicable with respect to the parties, who are the subjects of them. One might be led to imagine this to be the case from your having admitted others into the secret of your confidential corrispondence, at the sametime that you thought it ineligable it should be trusted to those “Officers, whose actions underwent its scrutiny.[”] Your not knowing whether the Letter, under consideration, “came to me from a member of Congress, or from an Officer,” plainly indicates that you originally communicated it to at least one of that honorable body; and I learn from Genl Conway, that before his late arrival at York town, it had been committed to the perusal of several of its members, and was afterwards shewn by himself to three more. It is somewhat difficult to conceive a reason, founded in generosity, for imparting the free & confidential strictures of that ingenious Censor, on the operations of the Army, under my command, to a member of Congress; but perhaps “time & circumstances pointed it out.” It must indeed be acknowledged, that the faults of very respectable Officers, not less injurious for being the result of inexperience, were not improper topics to engage the attention of Members of Congress.
It is however greatly to be lamented, that this adept in Military science did not employ his abilities in the progress of the Campaign, in pointing out those wise measures, which were calculated to give us “that degree of success we might reasonably expect.” The United States have lost much from that unseasonable diffidence, which prevented his embracing the numerous oppertunities he had in Council, of displaying those rich treasures of knowledge and experience he has since so freely laid open to you. I will not do him the injustice to impute the penurious reserve which ever appeared in him upon such occasions to any other cause than an excess of modesty; neither will I suppose he possesses no other merit than; of that after kind of sagacity, which qualifies a man better for profound discoveries of errors, that have been committed, and advantages that have been lost, than for the exercise of that foresight & provident discernment which enable him to avoid the one & anticipate the other. But, willing as I am to subscribe to all his pretensions, and to believe that his remarks on the operations of the Campaign were very judicious, and that he has sagaciously descanted on many things that might have been done, I cannot help being a little sceptical as to his ability to have found out the means of accomplishing them, or to prove the sufficiency of those in our possession. These Minutiæ, I suspect, he did not think worth his attention, particularly, as they might not be within the compass of his views.
Notwithstanding the hopeful presages, you are pleased to figure to yourself of General Conway’s firm & constant friendship to America, I cannot perswade my self to retract the prediction concerning him;

which you so emphatically wish had not been inserted in my Last. A better acquaintance with him, than I have reason to think you have had, from what you say, and a concurrance of circumstances oblige me to give him but little credit for the qualifications of his heart; of which, at least, I beg leave to assume the priviledge of being a tolerable judge. Were it necessary, more instances than one might be adduced, from his behaviour & conversation, to manifest that he is capable of all the malignity of detraction, and all the meanesses of intriegue, to gratify the absurd resentment of disappointed vanity, or to answer the purposes of personal aggrandizement, and promote the interests of faction. I am with respect—Sir Yr most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Horatio Gates, 9 February 1778 [letter not found]
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Horatio Gates, 9 Feb. 1778. On 14 Feb., GW wrote Gates: “I am favoured with yours of the 9th instant.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Lafayette, 9 February 1778
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

At flemming town [N.J.] the nineth february [1778]
dear general

I can not let go back my guide without taking this opportunity of wraiting to your excellency tho’ I have not yet public business to speak of—I go on very slowly some times pierced by rain, sometimes covered with snow, and not thinking many handsome thoughts about the projected incursion into canada—if succèss were to be had it would surprise me in a more agreable manner, by that very reason that I do’nt expect very shining ones—lake champlain is very cold for producing the least bit of laurels, and if I am neither drawned neither starv’d I’l be as proud as if I had gained two battles.
Mister düer had given to me a rendés vous at a tavern, but no body

was to be found there—I went by coriel-ferry in compliance to the directions of lord stirling, and the advices of Mister tilmangh and gibs—I fancy Mister düer will be with Mister Cannway sooner than he had told me—they’l perhaps conquer canada before my arrival, and I expect to meet them at the governor’s house in quebec.
I have been told by the people in going along, that on the other side of the delaware, there was a great plenty of scheep which the ennemy could take of very easely and which ought to be secured—that I ca’nt give any particular intelligence about but I thought it proper to mention that report to your excellency—I have heard too that the ennemy keeps a great correspondance with the jersays by coopers ferry.
Could I believe one single instant that this pompous command of a northen army will let your excellency forget a little an absent friend, then I would send the project to the place it comes from—but I dare hope that you will remember me some times—I wish you very heartely the greatest public or private happiness and succès—it is a very melancholy idea for me that I ca’nt follow your fortune as near your person as I could wish—but my heart will take very sincerely his part of every thing which can happen to you, and I am already thinking of the agreable moment were I’l come down to assure myself your excellency of the most tendir affection and highest respect I have the honor to be with dear general Your most obedient servant

the Marquis de lafayette

will you give me leave to inclose here my most affectionate respects to your lady and my best compliments to your excellency’s family.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 9 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Valley Forge February the 9th 1778

On the 20th Ulto I did myself the pleasure of writing you by Colonel Marshall who was going to Boston, to which place I had heard that you

were gone. Lest my information on that head should have been wrong and you should still be at Albany, I transmit you a Copy of my Letter of that date by the conveyance which now offers, and I am to request that you will, as soon as your condition will admit, repair to this Army.
No occurrence of importance has taken place of late, and I have only to add my best wishes for your immediate & perfect recovery, and to assure you that I am Dear Sir with great esteem & regard Your Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Southy Simpson, 9 February 1778
From: Simpson, Southy
To: Washington, George

Accomack County virginia 9th Febry 1778
May it Please your Excellency,
Sir,

I hope youl excuse my taking the Liberty, to Intreat you not to take from this too much expos’d part of the State of virginia, those Soldiers Lately Draughted by virtue of an act of the State: I Esteem it as one of the greatest Honnours to be your Soldier, and Such I consider Myself, and am ready when ever you think the Service of the States makes it necessary, to risk my Life, and I will Risk my Life, in the Execution of All your Commands, yet Great Sir, I Humbly conceive our exposed Situations at least makes it nec[e]ssary, to keep what few Men we have, however we shall think ourselves Happy whilst you have the disposal of us, and all your Commands Shall be Punctually obey’d I have the Honnour to be with the Greatest Esteem, Sir your obedient & very Humble Servant

Southy Simpson


Title: To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 9 February 1778
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency
Chatham [N.J.] Febry 9th 1778

The Regt having finally arrived at a place which will most probably be our Quarters for some time I have set down to report our situation to Genl Polaski, & having other matters to lay before your Excellency, I can at the same time inform that the few men & horses which we have with us are in tolerable good Qrs, & tho’ the place is but small, I trust we shall not want for forage or provisions during our stay.
Lieut. Colo. Blackden I conclude will provide Cloathing for the Regt, in N. England, Boots & Leather Breeches excepted, which I was directed to ingage. I am happy to inform that I have already better than 100 pairs of leather Breeches in store, & the remaining Complement for the Regt is ingaged, & will be ready for us shortly.
With respect to Boots, by the assistance of Mr Caldwell D. Q. M. Genl for this Departmt, 250 pairs are ingaged near this place, & tho’ in every other place where we have made inquiry none could be ingaged under 24–26. & 30 Dolls. pr pair, our whole Complement is ingaged & will shortly be compleated for 14 Dolls., the money to be paid on the Delivery of the Boots.
With respect to the Breeches I have made no particular agreement, but they are to be apprized by indifferent Judges, the Magistrates &c. &c. Those that I have on hand have been averaged at 16 Dolls. apiece—which is more reasonable than I expected to obtain them, being several Dolls. less than the Clothier Genl gave for Breeches of the same Quality at Lancaster & the back Counties several months ago.
Much has been said about the augmentation of the Troops; if such a plan is determined on; could wish to know it as soon as possible, that the recruiting business may be immediately undertaken.
Your Excellency must be well assured that a number of horses are wanting for the Dragoon service. As Colo. Sheldon is now in N. England where horses are perhaps cheaper than in any other part, any Directions in the above particular should be immediately attended to.
I am confident that I need not remind your Excellency of the necessity of setting about the aforesaid business immediately as the Winter, which has already too far elapsed, will soon be over & we called into the field, with prospects of rendering our Country not that service, which might be expected from the Establishment.
As much Depends on our having money to pay off our Contracts for the Regt, I am requested by Colo. Caldwell to desire your Excellency to enable me to pay off the aformentioned bills punctually; & should any further supplys of boots be needed by the Clothier Genl, as I think they

will hardly be purchased so cheap in any other State, I doubt not but that they might be ingaged if application was soon made.
I have just recd 149 horseman’s Swords, taken with Genl Burgoyne, which are all that we may expect from that Qr—They are very strong & heavy having steel Scabbards.
Hoping that your Excellency’s Directions in the premises may be forwarded as speedily as ⟨pos⟩sible to Genl Polaski or myself I remain, with all respect, your Excellency’s most obdt & very hble Servt

Benja. Tallmadge Major Commdt 2d Regt L. Dr.


Title: To George Washington from Continental Artillery Officers, 10 February 1778
From: Continental Artillery Officers
To: Washington, George

[Valley Forge, 10 February 1778]

The Memorial of the Officers of Artillery now in Service at the Park of Artillery Humbly Sheweth—That it is with pain we address your Excellency upon the disagreeable Subject before us; Your Excellency’s Ears have been so often wounded of late With Complaints that we wou’d rather sooth & Suppress our present Uneasiness than to trouble you with them at this time: But to remain silent We Concieve wou’d be Tacitly Consenting to Measures that in the end must Prove destructive to Our Corps. the wellfare of which we have much at Heart, and the Credit of which it is Our duty and Study to Support.
We wou’d reprisent to your Excellency that much Uneasiness has arisen in the Corps of Artillery and much Injustice done to the Officers of that Corps by the late Promotion of Captain Duplicis to the Rank of Lieut. Col. Therein. we wou’d wish to see every Officer Regularly Promoted in his Line, Except where the Character of an Officer is Exceptionable. we Cannot Conceive that Captain Duplicis’s Service as an Artillery officer are by any means adequate to the rapid Promotion which is given to him, it is said as a reward for such Services; that the only opportun[it]y he ever had (that we know of) of Exerting Himself in the line of his duty was at the Action of Fort Mercer; from The Information of Artillery Officers in that Action with him his Conduct Appears to us to be far from Meriting so great areward as the Promotion from a Captain to a Lieut. Col. (tho’ we wou’d not wish to derogate from Captn Duplicis’s Character as a brave Officer but only to point at his Conduct as an Artillery Officer)—we Conceive that Captn Duplicis is one of the youngest Captains in the Corps—and was not Intitled to so rapid A rise over the heads of many good Officers who have served their Country with Credit since the first stages of the present Controversey. and we flatter Ourselves it will Appear to your Excellency upon Enquiry that many Officers Who are superseded by Captain Duplicis, have a full greater Claim to merit from their services, and who tho’ they Claim no Merit from foreign services. Yet deserve much from their Indefatigable Exertions in the Service of their Country.
We wou’d further represent to your Excellency that we Conceive it

Unjust and ungenerous that Officers who have Entered into the Service of their Country from the purest Motives, who have been at the Expence and Labour of Recruiting and disciplining men for the good of that service should be Superseded and have the Credit of their labours wrested from their hands and the reward thereof lavishly thrown upon Others. the only Motive we have in Entering into the present laborious services is the good of our Country: the little notice taken of Officers, the scarcity of every Necessary in Camp added to the Many dangers and Hardships they have to Encounter is enough to discourage young Officers in the rugged paths of their duty If it was not for this Motive and the hopes of receiving as a reward of their Toils The promotion they are Intitled to in their line and thence Arrive to the Importance they see in their superiors. we need not tell your Excellency what Pain it must be to Officers who have had a right to Command Captn Duplicis during the last Campaign being older Officers and whose services intitle Them to Equal Merit, to be now under his Command from his late promotion they can never submit to it with Willingness or Chearfullness and without these their Obedience will render but little service. the promotion of young Officers Over the Heads of those who Command them always (Except in some Extraordinary Cases) Carries with it disgrace and dishonour which never fails to light on The Heads of those who Are left unnoticed: this has been a matter of Contention In all services particularly in ours in which we have seen it Contended from the General Officers down to the Subaltern. We are sorry to inform your Excellency that the whole Body of Officers feel dissatisfied and disgusted at this Rapid promotion of Captain Duplicis and Cannot think of Recognizing Him as a Lieut. Col. in their Corps or submitting to his Command as an Officer of that Rank.
We wou’d further represent to your Excellency as much Cause of Uneasiness that we have seen Offers of Rank so high as Major in the Corps Made to young Gentlemen Ignorant of the duty and Holding no Rank in the Army when Old Officers have been Neglected having raised Companies in the First Stages of the present dispute and still remain Captains thereof. Why the disposing of Commissions of so high a Rank should be left to the Disposal of any one person in the Corps we know not, and from the very Improper Application of that power we wou’d Argue the Impropriety of the Measure.
We wou’d further represent to your Excellency that Much Injustice has been done to Senr Officers of Artillery particularly by apart of Col. Crane’s Regiment under the Command of Major Ebenezer Stevens, the Officers most being Gentlemen of no former Rank in the Army, from an Arbitrary power lodged in Major Stevens to Appoint and Commission his Officers. these Gentlemen appointed and their Commissions

Antidated so as to Give them Rank in preference to Officers of long standing in the Corps.
We would further represent to your Excellency that it is painfull to us to see the Rank of the Army which is the Only Honourable Badge of Distinction lavishly Heaped on the Heads of the Staff of Our Army particularly in the Case of a Certain Mr Samuel French who Served us as a Sub Conductor of Military stores but a short time ago who now Enjoys the Rank of a Major in our Corps for his Services in that Line.
We would wish as the Corps of Artillery is an Independent Corps Certain Rules and Regulations similar to those in the Brittish and Other Services May be Establish’d for the good of Ours so as make the Corps as Respectable And servicable as possible.
We submit the whole to your Excellency’s superior Wisdom and We have no doubt but your Excellency’s Regard for the Corps will Induce you To Interfere in Our Complaints and Grant us such relief as shall be deemed Just and Honourable.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 10 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 10th Feby 1778

I have been favd with yours of the 27th and 31st ulto—The Officers and Men, belonging to the Artillery under the command of Major Stevens, had been sent back previous to the Rect of yours of the 27th—I have always found great inconveniences in keeping small parties detatched from their Corps.
You must have heard that the Officers who had the British Cloathing in charge would not proceed further than Lancaster. They insisted upon and have returned to Philadelphia.
I cannot find upon enquiry of Colo. Smith, that there was any thing reprehensible upon the part of the Officers, he says, on the contrary, that their behaviour was, in his opinion, strictly proper while under his Care. Lt Patterson, one of the Officers who attended them, also says, that their behaviour upon the journey was conformable to the terms of their parole.
I received a letter from you of the 23d January on the subject of Cloathing said to be collected in this State for the use of the Pennsylva

Troops, and delivered out to the Army in general. There was a mistake in the representation of this matter to you. Soon after the Officers were sent out by me to collect cloathing, they were recalled by desire of the President, who informed me, by a deputation from the Assembly, that they had appointed Commissioners for that purpose. What little was collected by the Officers was distributed among the Men of their own Regiments. I do not beleive that the Cloathier General ever recd any of it on the general account. On the contrary, he complains that the State had taken a parcel of Cloth to their particular use, which he had purchased for the Continent. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel George Gibson, 10 February 1778
From: Gibson, George
To: Washington, George

May It please Your Excelly
Lancaster [Pa.] 10th Febry 1778.

A Gang of Villians employed by Mr Howe for the purpose of Stealing & otherways procuring horses, made their appearance in the vicinity of this Town, Apart of the Gang were apprehended by order of the Civil Majestrate, as I conceived they came within the Cognizance of Martial Law. I waited on the Marquis de la fayette Majr Genl, who was of the same oppinion. He immediately Issued the Inclosed order for a General Court Martial which met & proceeded to the Trial of Sundry prisoners. The proceedings are transmitted to Your Excelly by this conveyance. I flatter myself they will meet Your Excellys approbation, I am exerting myself to bring to Justice all those concerned with them, who I apprehend are pretty numerous as scarce a days passes without producing Some new discovery’s—The well affected in this part of the Country pray fervently that Yr Excelly wou’d prevent that intercourse that has been Kept up with the Enemy by making Examples of the offenders.
I have the Pleasure to inform you the Hospitals are now in excellent

order the Sick properly attended to, from which I hope a good reinforcemt will be derived in the Spring. I have the Honor to be with truth Your Excellys Obedt Servt

Geo: Gibson


Title: From George Washington to General William Howe, 10 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, William

Sir
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] February the 10th 1778

I received yesterday the favor of your Letter of the 5th Instant.
In answer to what ever it contains concerning General Burgoyn’s Army and the measures adopted relative to it, I have only to inform you, that this is a matter in which I have never had the least direction. It lies wholly with Congress, and the proposals you make, on this head, must be submitted to them; I have accordingly transmitted a Copy of your Letter, and shall be ready to forward you any Resolutions they may take in consequence.
I shall omit animadverting on your Observations with regard to the allowance and treatment to prisoners in your hands. It is a subject which has been fully discussed in the progress of our correspondence, and the necessity of a further investigation is superseded by your now meeting me on the ground I have so long wished.
The powers under which I act, are entirely derived from Congress, and must of course be subject to such modifications as they may think proper according to circumstances to prescribe. But, holding myself fully authorised by their instructions and intentions, to avail myself of the reasonable terms, you are at this time willing to adopt for the mutual relief of prisoners, I shall explicitly close with your propositions to the following effect.
“That an Exchange of all prisoners now in our possession, Officer for Officer, Soldier for Soldier and Citizen for Citizen, so far as number and rank will apply,” be carried into execution as expeditiously as the nature of the case will admit, and without regard to any controverted

point, which might prove an impediment to so desireable an end. And here, as I may not clearly understand your meaning when you say, “In the meantime I shall wait the arrival of the British Officers, whom you have released upon their paroles, and shall without delay send an equal number to you in return”—I take occasion to request, that you will be pleased to favor me with an explanation, whether you intend to consider such Officers on both sides as still continuing under the obligation of a parole, or as absolutely exchanged in pursuance of the General cartel. I see no reason why an effectual exchange should not at once operate with respect to them.
I also agree that Two Commissioners from me shall meet a like number from you, on the 10th day of March in German Town at the King of prussia Tavern at 11 in the forenoon to adjust, upon equitable terms, the difference you mention, and such other matters, as they may be severally empowered to determine.
with respect to a general settlement of accounts, as it comprehends points with which I have no authority to interfere, it is not in my power to concur in the measure, you suggest for that purpose. I am under the necessity of referring it to the decision of Congress.
Considering a general exchange as finally agreed on between us, I shall without delay order the prisoners in our hands to places in the vicinity of your different posts, as their respective situations may render most convenient; and shall give you notice as they arrive, that you may return a number equal to those sent in from time to time. I am with due respect Sir, Your Most Obedient servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Henry Beekman Livingston, 10 February 1778
From: Livingston, Henry Beekman
To: Washington, George

Sir
Pike[land] Township [Chester County, Pa.] 10th Feby 1778

The Day after I saw you last I was so unfortunate as to be taken exceedingly ill which has since untill now Incapacitated me from doing any Kind of Business—For the advantage of a Change of Diet and the attendance of my Surgeon who is also Sick in this Neighbourhood I was desirous of retiring here and applied to General Poor for leave who returned me for answer “That he had no Objection to my removal for a few Days on account of my Health But that he had not, the Power of Granting me a Furlough” In Consequence I left Camp thinking to take Your Excellencies Permission in my way But hearing you were with the Committee of Congress determin⟨ed⟩ rather to make my apology next day than to Trouble You upon so Trifling an Occasion But my Complaint encreasing with Great Violence occasioned me to keep my Bed untill Yesterday I am About Seven miles from Camp at Mr Thomass Snyders upon French Creek and Should be much Obliged to Your Excellency for Permission to continue in the Country untill perfectly Recovered as my Surgeon assures me my Disorder is dangerous and very Subject to a Relapse Tho my accomodations are rather worse here than In Camp I am in Great Hopes that a Change of Diet with the Help of a Constitution of which I have reason to Boa⟨st⟩ never having been Sick before in My Life that I shall be enabled to return to my Duty in a few Days. Since I had the Honour to address Your Excellency last on the Subject of raising Corps of Cavaldry I have Considered Your Excellencies Objection Viz: (the want of Arms and accoutrements to Engage upon equal Terms with the Enemy) and must Confess it would take a Great deal more Time to Surmount this Dificulty Than I would wish to Spare from the Next Campaign In Short that it will be impossible to have them Formed and Set for action by that Time during which Space Yo⟨ur⟩ Excellency May possibly find means to Conclude the War with the destruction of our Enemies But Should it promise a longer Continuance I cannot Help Thinking that a Partisan Corps upon the Plan I have recommended Might be compleated and renderd, more Formi⟨da⟩ble (from their Compleat Equipment and the advantag⟨e⟩ they would have from Dicipline) in the Space of one Year than Ten Times the Number of such as are now raised without having had those Advantages And Merely from the Single Circumstance of having Time to Dicipline themselves before they are put upon Duty would not in the Course of a Year disable one Tenth Part of the Number of Horses that are now Lost to the Continent in that Space for want of Attention in the men to their Beasts. The Enclose is an Estimate of the Expence the

Equipment of a Corps Such as I have mentioned to Your Excellency, would be attended with In France, which I obtained from an officer formerly in the French Cavaldy. Tho’ From the Resolves Above mentioned Your Excellency may be disinclined to raise more Cavaldry: Yet from the Same motives which actuated me when I requested the Comd of a Partisan Corps I would wish the Command of a Corps of Infantry for the Same Purpose The Number that Your Excellency thinks Proper to Effect the Ends Proposed will be most Agreable to me. I have the Honour to be Sir with the Greatest Resspect Your Excellencies Most Obt Humble Servt

Henry B: Livingston.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 10 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

Dear Sir,
Valley-forge Feby 10th 1778.

Your favor of the 19th Ulto by Colo. Armand came to my hands a few days ago. rest assured my good Sir, that that Gentn mis-conceives the matter exceedingly if he thinks my conduct towards him is influenced in the smallest degree by motives of resentment, arising from misrepresentn.
I have ever looked upon him as a spirited Officer, and every thing that was in my power to do for him (consistently with the great line of my duty) I have done; but the conduct which Congress unhappily adopted in the early part of this War by giving high rank to foreigners, who enjoyed little or none in their own Country, & in many instances of equivocal characters; has put it out of their power without convulsing the whole Military system, to employ these people now; for viewing rank relatively, the man who has been a Major for instance, in the French Service finding a Subaltern (there) a field Officer in ours, extends his views at once to a Brigade, or at least to a Regiment—and where is either of them to be found? without displacing, or disgusting our own Officers, whose pretensions would be injured by it, & whose natural interest in, & attachment to the cause of their Country, is more to be relied on than superior abilities in capricious foreigners; who are dissatisfied with any rank you can give them, while there is yet higher to attain.

With respect to the particular case of Colo. Armand, I have only to add, that if it was in my power to serve him, I would, notwithstanding he was influenced to resign in a pet. The Corps he commanded has, long since, been reduced to a mere handful of Men (under 50) & you are sensible that it is not in my power to raise any new ones without the authority of Congress.
Mrs Washington who is now in Camp, desires me to offer her respectful complimts to Mrs Morris & yourself, to which be so good as to add those of Dr Sir, Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Casimir Pulaski, 10 February 1778
From: Pulaski, Casimir
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Trenton [N.J.] 10th Feby 1778.

I send Your Excellency one of my Lancemen he is completely equiped—I find people here who are willing to serve—if you approve of it my General, I will advance them money for  The Governor is here and promises to give me an answer as soon as a Council shall have been held, which will happen in a few days—Whatever is to be done for us I hope will be done without delay, our time is short, and I suppose the Campaign is to be open’d by the Cavalry—it will not be for want of attention in me, if they are not in condition to do it—I send Your Excellency the proceedings of two Courts of Inquiry, one respecting the Dragoons who are said to have robbed an Inhabitant—the other respecting Mr Zelienski a Court Martial cannot be held on this affair, on account of Col. Moylans absence and in consequence of the Officers being

so scattered—even for the affair of the Dragoons I could not collect a sufficient number to hold a Court Martial.
Your Excellency may have them tried according to the report—or order them to be sent to the Galleys, this is an exemplary punishment, and would be useful to the public, as the Fleet is in want of men—There are some persons here who are desirous of serving with me as Volunteers, with arms and accoutrements, Your Excellency will inform me whether the Number of Volunteers is limited. I have the honor to be Your Excellencys most humble & most obedt

C. Pulaski Genl of Cavalry


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Rufus Putnam, 10 February 1778
From: Putnam, Rufus
To: Washington, George

Sir
Albany 10th February 1778

I find myself under the Necessity of Applying for my Commission as Engineer, which I Neglected when Opportunity Offered with more Conveniance than at present while in New York, after the Evacuation your Excellency had such a Multiplicity of Buisiness on hand and of more Importance, and still Omitted Applying, untill being seperated and find a great III Conveniance attends my not haveing it.
By my Appointment in General Orders, August 12th 1776, and by your Excellency’s letter August 11th I had the Rank of Colonel Confered on me by the Honorable the Continental Congress—I believe Sir you will be satisfyed I ought to hold the same Rank from the time so Specifyed in your order, and not be Deprived of it for the want of the Commission, and hope your Excellency will be pleas’d to send it by the first Opportunity your Compliance will ever be Acknowledged with Gratitude by Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Hhble servt

R. Putnam


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Smallwood, 10 February 1778
From: Smallwood, William
To: Washington, George

Dear sir,
Wilmington [Del.] February 10th 1778

I am much obliged by your favor received last Evening, and shall take every necessary precaution to obviate any design formed against this Post—but I am induced to think the Information was groundless, as we have now seve⟨n⟩ Prisoners taken on the Evening of the 7th, part of them taken by the mouth of Derby Creek going up with Provision, & the others above that, coming down from Philadelphia after having sold their Provisions, also a Deserter from the Roe Buck a New-England Man, who was taken some Time ago, who have heard nothing of an Embarkation—the Deserter is an intelligible Man, has been detained upwards of 12 Months on board, & has never had a secure Opportunity of escaping before Saturday afternoon, he informs there was not then a Man embark’d, & that no Ships were ready to receive them, but that he understood 30 Sail of Transports had received Orders to get ready to sail to England (this indeed may indicate something) I also have certain intelligence of pt of the Hessian Troops being posted on this Side the Schuylkill on Sunday; all which serves to shew the Quakers information was False.
In consequence of your direction, I have endeavor’d to establish a Shoe Factory, & have prepared most of the Articles for that purpose, but yet want a Superintendant, one Rutherford who formerly carried on that Business in Philada is very strongly recommended, but have avoided contracting with him, till you were made acquainted with his Terms—he will superintend any Number of hands, & conduct the Business in the best Manner, at the rate of 100 Dollars Pr Month, Rations & a Clerk found, & horse hire paid, if it shou’d be necessary in the prosecution of this undertaking, The Terms I think are high, unless the Business is extended farther than the Shoeing this Division, in that Instance it might answer better to employ a Man of his character & turn to Business, & the supplies might be more certain, than by confining our Views to a partial Supply.
I shou’d be glad of your direction upon a Proposition in Governor Johnsons Ltr, which suggesd the expediency of detatching an Officer or two to each County in Maryland, to receive and march off Reecruits, who might also (he conceives) engage some—but I am well assured nothing short of drafting will fill up our Regts.
I have done my utmost to keep the Officers & Soldiers together, but notwithstanding some of the former, & numbers of the latter have stole of[f] & some of the Convicts & Servants inlisted under the former Act in Maryland have deserted to the Enemy—we have had 12 or 15 brought back from Maryland, who have been severely punished, but nothing less than Death will restrain the Practice—there is now 8

confined on suspicion of agreeing & intending to desert, & 4 more under Sentence of Death (all Servants) three for intending (by their own confession) & one for attempting to Desert—In the latter cases I find myself under difficulty, notwithstanding the Ct Martial have passed Sentence, for under the Articles transmitted lately by you, I do not conceive a Man can be Sentenced to suffer Death for his Intention, or an Attempt, tho I view him in as criminal a Light—I am still hampered as in the case of Zedwits, & by the same Article, which I find no Remedy for, & unless there shou’d be some other Article (which I think there must be) than those sent by you, I shall still, remain at a Loss in the cases—perhaps without pestering you with my Scruples, Colo. Harrison could solve the Difficulty, by pointing out the Article under which a Man is to suffer Death for his Intention, or an Attempt, not carried into execution, I have the Honor to be with sincere Regard Yr Excellency’s most Obedt Sert

W. Smallwood


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General George Weedon, 10 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Weedon, George

Dear Sir,
Valley forge Feby 10th 1778.

It is matter of no small grief to me, to find such an unconquerable desire in the Officers of this Army to be absent from Camp, as every day

exhibits; and my feelings upon the occasion are not a little wounded by perceiving that this passion is more prevalent among my country men, than in any other Troops in the whole Army—Mulenberg is now gone—you think it the hardest case imaginable that you are here—Woodford & Scott are also applying—the field Officers of all your Brigades are, in a manner, absent; a new arrangement of the army is taking place, and important changes (to effect which properly, the aid of every officer of Rank is necessary) is on the Carpet; and yet, I must attempt (for it can be no more than an attempt) to do all these duties myself, and perform the part of a Brigadier—a Colonel—&c. (because in the absence of these every thing relative to their business comes directly to me) or, I must incur displeasure by the denial—I can see clearly that instead of having the proper Officers to assist in organizing, training, and fitting the Troops for the field against the next Campaign, that we shall be plunged into it as we were last year heels over head without availing ourselves of the advantages which might be derived from our present situation & prospects, if every Officer would lay his hands properly to the work, & afford those aids which I have a right to expect, and the Service requires instead of longing, & hankering after their respective homes. But I shall say no more, nor will I oppose your Inclination any longer than to request that you, Woodford & Scott, will, before you go give me your Sentiments of the Officers to be retaind, if a reduction should take place, with some other matters of a local nature which I cannot come at without assistance. with sincere regard and esteem I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affec⟨te⟩

Go: Washington

P.S. The Comee of Congress have direction from that body to settle the Rank of yourself Woodford &ca—this ought to be done before you leave Camp.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Wharton, Jr., 10 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Wharton, Thomas Jr.

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 10th Feby 1778.

I have been honored with your favors of the 15th and 22d ulto with the several public Acts referred to, inclosed. I most sincerely wish that, for compleating your quota of Men, may be found adequate to the purpose,

but I very much doubt it. I have ordered two proper Officers, from every Regiment belonging to your State, to repair to Lancaster, and take their recruiting instructions from you.
I observe, that the State have appointed Colo. Francis Johnston to receive and distribute the Cloathing collected by the Commissioners. That Gentleman has not been able to do duty for some time on account of his Health, he is not in Camp at present, and I do not find that he is expected. I therefore most earnestly desire that some other may be appointed, and that what cloathing is collected may be immediately sent down. General Wayne brought a tolerable supply for the two Brigades under his command, but the 3d 6th 9th 12th and 13th Regiments are in great distress, and are the more uneasy and discontented, as they see their companions are provided for.
Colo. Lutterloh Deputy Qr Mr General informs me that he found a considerable quantity of cloathing collected at Reading, waiting for an order to be sent forward. This being the particular property of your State, I did not think myself at liberty to interfere with it, but I hope you will immediately order it to Camp. It may come down by Water and save the labor and expence of Waggons.
It certainly was never expected or intended, that the States should furnish their Officers with such Cloathing as was demanded of yours. The recommendation of Congress is, that each State should furnish their Officers and Men with proper (by which I understand decent and substantial) cloathing at a price in proportion to their pay, and that the loss, which will arise between the first cost and the price at which it may be charged upon delivery, shall be defrayed by the Continent at large.
Inclosed you have the Return of the Commissioned and Staff Officers of your State. You will observe that there are many promotions and vacancies to fill. I put a stop to them untill the new arrangement of the Army, now under consideration, shall be compleated. I have the Honor to be Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Gen. John Burgoyne, 11 February 1778 [letter not found]
From: Burgoyne, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Gen. John Burgoyne, 11 Feb. 1778. In his letter to Burgoyne of 11 Mar. 1778, GW referred to “your very obliging Letter of the 11th of February.”


Title: To George Washington from a Continental Congress Camp Committee, 11 February 1778
From: Continental Congress Camp Committee
To: Washington, George

Sir
Moore Hall [Pa.] Feby 11th 1778

The travelling is so bad that we wish you wou’d not attempt to meet us, while it continues. We shall employ ourselves in that part of our business which can be done without your personal attendance.
We have been considering General Howe’s letter which you was pleased to lay before us yesterday, and seem agreed and confirmed in the opinion that he hath some latent meaning in those parts of it whic[h] were then pointed out. We flatter ourselves you will not take it amiss that we express to you our sentiments upon the proposition of a general exchange made at this time, by General Howe. We think he wou’d not do this, but for very cogent reasons, and altho’ we are not able to conjecture what they are with any very strong probability: yet this is clear that he confines his proposed exchange to Officers and Soldiers, and is totally silent as to Citizens. As the latter were expressly

comprehended in the original Cartel proposed by himself, and agreed upon between you; and as he has been called upon by Congress, if not by yourself, to explain certain passages in his former letter which you laid before Congress, and explicitly to declare in what light he held the faithful Citizens of these States, who by the fortune of war, or other accident had fallen, or shoud fall under his power: yet he has never deemed proper as we can learn, to make any reply at all, much less a full and satisfactory answer on that subject. We cannot but think that he affects to consider every such Citizen as a rebel unexchangeable; and amesnable to the Laws of England, and therefore treats them, if possible, with more rigour and cruelty than those whom he is pleased to say, properly fall under the denomination of prisoners of war. Impressed with the manifest injustice of such apprehensions which if well grounded, we deem a breach of his faith plighted in the Cartel, we cannot but think the present a happy opportunity of drawing forth from General Howe the most explicit declarations on a subject of so great importance to every mere Citizen of these States, and making a renewal of the Cartel, the sine qua non of an exchange—We are Sir with much esteem & respect your obedient humble Servants

Fra. Dana by Order


Title: General Orders, 12 February 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Thirsday Feby 12th 1778.
DunbartonDunmore. Dayton.

At a General Court Martial whereof Coll Wigglesworth was President Feby 6th 1778. Captn Zane tried upon appeal to a General Court Martial, for acting in a cowardly manner when sent with a scouting party on 12th of December last in ordering his men to retreat when he had a considerable advantage over the Enemy, again found guilty of the charge being a breach of 13th Article 13th Section of the Articles of War and sentenced to be discharged from the service—At the same Court Lieutt Richard Whitbee tried upon appeal for acting in an ungentlemanlike manner and encouraging theft in the Army and acquitted.
His Excellency the Commander in Chief approves the aforegoing sentences and orders that Captn Zane be immediately discharged from the service and that Lieutt Whitbee be released from his Arrest.

At the same Court Captn Samuel Ely, tried (Feby 7th) for several practices unbecoming the officer and acquitted of the charges against him.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentence and orders him to be discharged from his arrest.