Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 12 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

          My Lord
          Head Qrs [West Point] Augt 12th 1779

        I shall be much obliged by your informing me of the date of Colo. Smith’s resignation of the 2d State Virginia Regmt. Colo. Brent & Lt Col. Dabney can probably ascertain it. The promotion of the former was in consequence of it—& I wish to know whether he has received a Commission. I also must request your Lordship to inform me of the Christian name of Major Meriwether. The reasons of my troubling your Lordship with these matters is—I have just received a Letter from His Excellency the Govr of Virginia—containing his & the Councils entire approbation of the Report of the Field Officers in the case between John Allison & John Lee Esq.—and transmitting Commissions to be filled by myself for the Officers who had a right to promotion by the resignation of Colo. Smith. As soon as I am informed of the date—and of the Christian n⟨ame⟩ of M[ajo]r Meriwether I shall fill the Commissions and publish the arrangement of the Field Officers in Genl Orders. I am with great regard & esteem Yr Lordships Most Obedt sert

          G.W.

          P.S. I duly received Your favors of the 7th & 8th. I have not the smallest doubt of the Engagement between Ct Destaing & Admiral Biron; being much in favor of the former. I wish we could get a confirmation of the particulars.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel John Taylor, 12 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Taylor, John

          Sir,
          West-point Augt 12th 79.

        Your favor of the 7th came to my hands about an hour ago by Mr Garrison with whom I have had a good deal of conversation and think his scheme, if it can be brought to bear, is a very good one—He will relate to you the substance of our discourse, which will save me a recital of it. I have only to request the favor of you to give it yr aid and that you will be so good as to fix a compensation (reasonable & just) to the services of the Parties who become the instruments of this intelligence. With esteem & regard I am Sir Yr most Obedt Sert

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 13 August 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Mandavilles [Dutchess County, N.Y.]Augst 13th 1779

        I take the Liberty to enclose a paragraph of a Letter which I received from Genl Nixon on yesterday, The Ground on which that Brigade is encamped was before occupied by General Huntingtons Brigade—I desired General Nixon to mention another Spot if he had one in view, He has this morning as your Excellency will observe proposed Balled Hill—I would request your Opinion of the propriety of the Brigades moving to that place, there is no Spot of Ground proper for an Encampment within the Gorge except at a Considerable distance, I would not trouble your Excellency on this Subject were it not for the particular Situation, of that Post.
        On receiving a verbal Signification of your Excellencys Pleasure on yesterday for countermanding the Detachment destined to the Sound, it was immediately done the Detachment had marched as far as the village, before the order could overtake them. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Colonel John Lamb, 13 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Lamb, John

          Sir
          West point August the 13. 1779

        I have received Your favor of Yesterday. By the Resolutions of Congress the Regimental pay Masters are to be chosen by the Officers of the Regiments—the Quarter Master & Adjutant by the Field Officers. This I am persuaded has been the case with respect to the Gentlemen you mention, but in consequence of the Resolutions it is necessary, that a Certificate of the choice of the first, under the hands of a majority of the Officers of the Regiment—and of the Two last, with the signatures of Two Field Officers, should be lodged with me, previous to my announcing their appointments in Orders. You will be pleased to send me these Certificates—and I will immediately publish the appointments to operate from the date you request.
        I sincerely wish Your Letter had been upon no Other than the subject above. It pains me much to find an Officer of your rank and merit soliciting a resignation—and I would willingly hope upon farther consideration, that you will decline your application. Your good sense and judgement will not permit me to expostulate with you, or to use any persuasives upon the occasion; but you will remember Sir, that the resignation of every good Officer, especially if he is of high rank, is attended with great injury to the public. They not only experience an injury in the loss of his Individual services, but the example has an unhappy and pernicious influence. And your case too, has been

decided by a very respectable Board of Officers, fully possessed of All the circumstances of your and Colo. Crane’s services—and who could have nothing in view but substantial justice to either party. I repeat my wishes that you will decline your application; but if you finally determine to persevere in it—You will be pleased to make it to Congress, as I have not of late accepted the resignation of any Colonel. I feel myself very sensibly obliged by the terms in the conclusion of your Letter—which are so personally interesting and am With great respect & esteem Sir Your Most Obedt servant

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Stephen Moylan, 13 August 1779
From: Moylan, Stephen
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir
          Greenwich [Conn.] 13th August 1779

        accept my most grateful thanks for your Kind permission to pay a visit to Mrs Moylan, I will, you may be assured Sir not loose time from my Duty, which I assure you no Officer in the Army is fonder of doing than I am, as to the expence of Intelligence I give You my word and my honor I have been rather under, than over, in what I mentiond to your Excellency in my Last this, or rather Poundridge post, has been the most expensive, as I promis’d a man who has been four times within Kingsbridge, to make his Dollars Silver, and he Says, and I believe it that the Last bills I gave him, which were two—one of 65 & one of 45 Dollars, he got but at the rate of 12 for one—as General Howe is at present in this place, and will take every oppertunity of gaining inteligence I have not occasion to interfere in that

department at the Same time I must remark to Your Excellency that I had positively your orders, when I parted with you at Middlebrook, to Lay out money to gain inteligence, and when I had the honor to receive your Commands of taking the Command of the Cavalry in the Jersey in 1778 I asked you whether I shoud try to gain inteligence, your answer was yes by all means, which made me fix my Qrs at Trenton, indeed the expence for information at that post was very trifleing, but if Your Excellency will reccollect what I Sent you from Amboy and in that neighborhood, you will See that it must have Come from persons I employed within the City, I mean persons I sent in—to Newyork—the Countermarch of the army from the Clove in that year I realy thought was occasiond by the information I had given to Your Excellency.
        if my word is not a Sufficient voucher to the public, I assure Your Excellency I will not nor Cannot give any other, and if I ever do get what I have laid out I do not think, from the depreciation of the money that I Shall be paid half what in justice I am intitled to, the freedom with which I write to Your Excellency I dare Say from my Knowledge of you[,] you will pardon, for you may be assured it does not arise from presumption I know your heart, it is a great, a good one, and amongst Your admirers, there is Know one who can Sub[s]cribe himself with more propriety, your assured freind and affectionate Humb. Sert than

          Stephen Moylan


Title: General Orders, 14 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moores-House [West Point]Saturday Augt 14th 1779.
          Parole New-Haven—  C. Signs Norwald. Norfolk.


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 14 August 1779
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          War-Office [Philadelphia] August 14. 1779.

        Lieut. White of the 10th Pensylvania regiment came here lately with Colo. Humpton’s orders from camp to take with him 5300 lbs. of raw hide to exchange with a shoemaker for boots and shoes for the officers of that regiment. Mr White accordingly recd twenty pairs of boots (a pair for each officer) & forty pairs of shoes. He said Colo. Humpton had your Excellency’s orders for making this exchange. We are sensible of the distress of the officers on account of cloathing, & have long thought some provision should be made for them. ’Tis near a year since we wrote Congress on the subject; and again after the receipt of your Excellency’s letter shewing the absolute necessity of furnishing cloathing for officers. But not having been favoured with information of your intentions in regard to boots and shoes to be procured in exchange for hides, we mention the instance above stated, and beg to be made acquainted therewith, and whether a general rule is formed for supplying the officers of every regiment in the same manner. The consumption of hides in this way will be immensely great: but perhaps unavoidable. Yet if any exception were made it must be to the boots, which are exceedingly expensive, and have not heretofore been deemed necessary (tho’ sometimes convenient) for officers whose duty always requires their being on foot. 200 lbs. of hide were given in exchange for each pair of the boots of Colo. Humpton’s officers, & 40 lbs. for each pair of shoes. We shall be happy to co-operate with your Excellency in every necessary measure for procuring suitable accomodations for the officers of the army; and as the Commissaries of hides are put under our immediate direction, it is the more needful that we should be informed of your Excellency’s orders & intentions

in regard to the subject of this letter. The late resolves of Congress and our consequent instructions relative to the hide-department, we have the honour to transmit herewith. And are with the greatest respect, your Excellency’s most obedt servants

          By order of the boardTim: Pickering

          N.B. The resolves & instructions for the ⟨hide⟩ department forwarded to H. Quarters the 6th inst.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 14 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

          Dr Sir
          West point August 14: 1779

        On the 3d Instant I had the honor to write to Your Excellency and to transmit you a Copy of a Letter I had received from General Sullivan of the 30th of July with a Copy of One to your Brother the General—Also a Letter addressed to Yourself. As I have not had the pleasure to hear from Your Excellency since, I have been some what anxious lest my dispatches should have miscarried and which is the cause of my troubling you upon the present occasion. I receivd a Letter last night from Genl Sullivan dated the 7 at Wyalusing where he had arrived without any opposition, and by a Letter from Colo. Barber to Major Gibbs—he expected the Troops with Genl Sullivan would reach Tioga the 10th. I have the Honor to be with sincere respect & esteem Yr Excellencys Most Obedt st

          G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 14 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 14th Augt 1779.

        I have to acknowlege your favor of yesterday.
        In a letter of Col. Hamilton’s a few days ago to you, I signified that Col. Armand should be put under arrest. In one from Col. Armand to the former it does not appear that this had taken place—Should this be so you will be pleased to have the order executed, as it would be unmilitary to continue him doing duty, while the court are determining on his case. Altho’ this may be repugnant to his feelings, yet I dare say he will be reconciled, when he considers the consequences that might ensue from dispensing in a single instance with the established laws & usages of the army. I am Dr Sir, your most hble servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 14 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

          Sir,
          Head Quarters [West Point] Augst 14th 1779

        I am to request that you will in company with Generals Knox and Du Portail make a visit to all the works on both sides the river, and ascertain the number of Cannon and the sizes which will be necessary for their defence—You will be pleased to distinguish between, a full complement of Cannon, which it would be expedient to have and the number which is absolutely necessary. I am Sir Yr Most Obet, servant

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Elisha Sheldon, 14 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

          Sir
          Head Quarters West point 14th Augt 1779.

        Major Talmadge in a letter of the 11th instant seems of opinion that Men sufficient to compleat your Regiment may be inlisted to serve during the War, and if I fully understand him upon the terms of serving on foot untill it shall be thought proper or convenient to mount them. If Men can be obtained upon the above terms I have no objection to as many being recruited as will compleat you to the establishment—the Bounty will be 200 dollars $ Man—But the Men must be Natives—of good connection and character, and such as will be every way qualified for the Dragoon service, and in the terms of inlistment, it must be clearly and expressly stipulated, that they are to serve on foot untill it shall be thought proper to mount them, otherwise they will hereafter complain that they have been deceived—No Man is to be engaged, but for the War. If you think Men can be procured on the foregoing terms, you may have a sum of money to try the experiment. I am &c.


Title: General Orders, 15 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moores-House [West Point]Sunday August 15th 1779.
          Parole Stony-Point—  C. Signs Saratoga Stono.

        A Subaltern officer and ten men from each of the brigades on this ground including the Garrison are to parade as soon as possible at Major General Greene’s quarters with their arms blankets and two days provision to go into the country to impress Waggons for the public service.
        The Quarter Master General or his Deputy will appoint one flat-bottom’d boat for the use of each brigade which is to be kept in constant readiness for their use by Mr Buchanan; and in future the commanding officers of brigades will give their orders for the use of the boat assigned them, and Mr Buchanan is to deliver a boat to no other persons order in the brigade; and that the whole business of the brigade may be done at the same time they are to be previously notified when and where the boat will go. Such boats as may be wanted for other purposes besides those for brigade and garrison duty (the latter of which Mr Whiting will direct the number & uses they are wanted for) orders are to be obtained from the Quarter Master General’s office as directed in former orders.
        Whoever gives an order for a boat will be held responsible for her return; for this purpose Mr Buchanan is to file all his orders and give receipts for those that are returned; Such as are not, must be accounted for by the person who gave the order.
        At the General Court-Martial whereof Coll Jackson was President

the 4th instant, Ensign Joshua Brimhall of Colonel Bradford’s regiment was tried for “Continuing at home four months after his furlough expired” found guilty and sentenced to be reprimanded in general orders.
        Ensign Brimhall’s excuse is not admissible; Nothing but absolute necessity could justify an officer for exceeding his furlough for such a length of time, and that necessity cannot be supposed to have existed; In matters of this kind an officer ought to shew exemplary punctuality to the soldiery.
        Ensign Brimhall is released from his Arrest.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 15 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          Dr Sir
          West point August 15th 1779

        I have received your Favour of the 13th Instant. If the Enterprize over the Sound is not already undertaken when this comes to hand, I would wish it to be laid aside intirely—unless its success should appear exceedingly clear & indeed certain. The Object is too unimportant—too contemptible to justify any risk. I have some private motives for

not countenancing the expedition in the first instance, which I may possibly communicate to you upon some future occasion. I am Dr Sir with great regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt st

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 15 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

          Sir,
          Head Quarters West Point 15th August 1779.

        In the letter which I had the honor of addressing to your Excellency the 6th instant I promised a state of facts to show that every thing in my power has been done to give success to the Western expedition. I am sorry to find in the appeal which Genl Sullivan ha⟨s⟩ made to Congress that he has misstated several particulars of importance, and that in providing for his own justification in case of misfortune, he has left the matter upon such a footing as to place me in a delicate situation. In justice to myself I beg leave to make a few remarks on the different parts of his letter.
        He says in the first place, “that the plan for carrying on the expedition was not agreeable to his mind, nor were the number of men for it sufficient in his opinion to insure success.”
        The plan he proposed was to have two bodies, each superior to the whole force of the enemy to operate both on the Mohawk River and by way of the Susquehannah—This plan might have been desireable if the number of our troops, the state of our finances, and of our supplies had permitted its execution, but it was impracticable on all these accounts. The force actually detached left the army so weak, that I am persuaded every Officer of reflection in it, who knew our true circumstances was uneasy for the consequences; and if a larger force had gone, we should have been absolutely at the discretion of

the enemy. This will immediately appear from a recurrence to the returns of the army at that time. Should we have endeavoured to make up the deficiency from the militia our experience of the success of the applications which were made will convince us that the attempt would have been fruitless; to say nothing of the injury to agriculture which would have resulted from calling out so large a body of militia. But if the men could have been procured we should have failed in supplies. This is evident from what has happened. If we have met with so many difficulties disappointments and delays in providing for the present force how would it have been possible to have provided for double the number?
        But though, if our resources had permitted, it might have been convenient to have had two bodies each superior to the enemy’s whole force to operate in different directions for the sake of dispatch, yet this does not appear to me on military principles to have been necessary to insure success: For as the object was only the destruction of some Indian settlements, all that could be requisite to its execution was to be able to march through them, and this purpose was answered if there was at one capital point a force sufficient to beat their collective force.
        General Sullivan seemed to prefer the carrying on the principal operation by the Mohawk River. My reasons for preferring the other route are contained in the letter No. 3—to General Schuyler. General Schuyler was originally of the same opinion as appears by his letters No. 1 & 2—but he changed it upon hearing the reasons in favo⟨r⟩ of the plan which has been adopted, as he acknowle⟨dges⟩ in his letter No. 4, where he also suggests an additional motive, the want of provisions. General Sullivan relinquishes the former plan himself on this principle; nor did the deficiency arise from the want of previous dispositions, but from the difficulties in procuring supplies. It was my own idea at first as will be seen by several letters herewith to carry on the principal operation by the mohawk, and directions were given very early to form magazines for this purpose, which it seems could not be executed. But if this obstacle had not existed, the reasons for penetrating by way of Susquehannah were then, and still are in my opinion, conclusive. The information, on which the facts, stated in my letter to General Schulyer, were founded, is principally contained in the summary No. 16—packet No. 7—The experiment hitherto has confirmed its truth.
        General Sullivan says, that his letters to me produced no other effect than to change the route of Clintons detachment. There are only four points on which his letters turn. One is the having two bodies of superior force to the whole strength of the enemy to operate

different ways—I have assigned reasons to show that a compliance with this was impracticable, and Genl Sullivans own concession on the score of provisions is an admission of its impracticability.
        Another is, the force necessary to compose the main body—This he estimates at three thousand—It will be seen by my letter No. 3—Packet 1st that my opinion long before corresponded with his idea; and the calculations made, at the time, of the Corps intended for the service, including the aid solicited from Pennsylvania, induced me to believe General Sullivans force would have amounted to about this number. The situation of our troops, continually mouldering in a variety of ways—the disappointment in the expected reinforcemen⟨t⟩ from Pennsylvania, and the unlooked for demands from a want of hands in the Quarter masters department have occasioned h⟨is⟩ force to be considerably less than was intende⟨d⟩ or could have been foreseen: That he has not been gratified in this respect was not for want of my wishes or endeavours, and is as great a disappointment to me as him. He acknowledges that more Continental troops could not be spared—The militia applied for were not furnished.
        The next point is—a change in the route of the troops under General Clinton. This he confesses happened as he desired. Yet it would have been much against my judgment, had his main body been as large as it was intended to be. I fear too, as matters have turned out, the most critical part of the expedition will be the junction of these two Corps. But it appears to me now from Genl Sullivans representation that he could not avoid giving the order to Clinton to march with a full supply of provisions.
        The last point is—a change of the Corps originally destined for the expedition. In this also he was indulged. The precise Corps he requested are with him; though I was not satisfied of the validity of his reason for desiring a change, as I believe very few more of the troops now with him have been accustomed to the Indian mode of fighting than of those who were first intended; I had two motives for fixing on the Pennsylvania troops—one was, that I should have been happy an officer of General St Clairs abilities had been second in command, to take the direction in case of accident to the first—General Sullivan by this change reduced his numbers four hundred men, which could not be replaced without breaking in upon other corps.
        On that part of Genl Sullivans letter which relates to the Quarter Masters & Commissary’s departments; I shall only observe that there have no doubt been very great delays—Whether these have proceeded in part from a want of exertion or wholly from the unavoidable impediments, which the unhappy state of our currency opposes at every step, I have not sufficient information to determine; but from

the approved capacity, attention, and assiduity with which the operations of these departments are conducted, I am inclined to make every allowance, and to impute our disappointments to the embarrassments of the times, and not to neglect. Genl Sullivans well known activity will not permit me to think he has not done every thing in his power to forward the preparations—But however the delays may have happened, I flatter myself no part of the blame can fall upon me. The paper⟨s⟩ contained in the packet No. 2 will show that the necessary orders were given by me, and that I was encouraged to expect their timely accomplishme⟨nt.⟩ Besides what is upon record, my pressing, and repeated intreaties were employed with the Quarter Master and Commissary General in personal conferences. My attention was so much directed to this expedition that I suspended at a very critical period the necessary preparations for the main army, to give the greater vigor & efficacy to those for that object. To this effect were my Instructions to the Quarter Master General when we had the strongest inducements to put ourselves in a moving posture.
        General Sullivan in the next place says, “Having been taught by repeated disappointments to be cautious, I early gave orders to Genl Clinton to supply his troops with three months Provisions and wrote Governor Clinton for his assistance in April last—This has been done, and they are supplied.” The idea here held up is really extraordinary—My letter to Genl Schuyler No. 1—will show that so early as the beginning of December magazines were ordered to be formed in that quarter for 10,000 men with a view to an expedition to Niagara—By the subsequent letters to him No. 2 & 3—these were partly discontinued, & limited to the plan of an Indian expedition; the extent of which was to be governed by his judgment of the force necessary. This being 3000 Men the preparations were of course for that number. Schenectady was afterwards made the depositary by Genl Clinton as appears by his letter No. 5—in answer to mine No. 4—From the whole tenor of the correspondence on the subject, Congress will clearly perceive, that the magazines which Genl Sullivan ascribes to his care and caution were formed in consequence of orders given several months before he was nominated to the command, which did not take place, till the 6th of March, by letter; and that they would have been equal to the supply of 3000 men, had not the resources of the country fallen short.
        General Sullivan states his force at 2312 rank & file, which by a variety of deductions he afterwards reduces to 938, which he holds up as his combatting force—I should be unwilling to overrate the means of any Officer, or to create a greater responsibility than is just—But at the same time, I think it a duty I owe to the public and myself to

place a matter of this kind in a true point of light. If almost the whole of the 2300 men are not effectually serviceable in action, it must be Genl Sullivans own fault—Nearly all the men he speaks of as pack horsemen bat horsemen &c. &c. may be to the full as useful as any others. The number he mentions is only necessary for the sake of dispatch on a march; in time of action the horses and cattle may be committed to the care of a very few, and the rest may be at liberty to act as occasion requires. Should he even be attacked on a march those animals may be made a shelter, rather than an incumbrance—If the operations he is to be concerned in were the regular ones of the field, his calculation would be better founded; but in the loose irregular war he is to carry on, it will naturally lead to error and misconception. Genl Sullivan makes no account of his Drummers and Fifers and other appendages of an army who do not compose the fighting part of it—I have too good an opinion of his judgment not to believe he would find very useful employment for them. These, and the few drivers and pack horsemen whom he acknowledges to have, will be nearly if not quite sufficient with a small guard to take care of his horses and cattle in time of action. But as I before observed, his real force will be less than it ought to be, to put him out of the reach of contingencies; but I hope with prudent management it will still suffice. The estimate made by Genl Schuyler of the enemy’s force from every subsequent information was not too low; and it is to be hoped the want of provisions will prevent its being exerted in a vigorous and formidable opposition. My chief solicitude is for Genl Clinton, if he effects the meditated junction there will in my opinion be nothing to fear afterwards. Notwithstanding what may be said of the expertness of Indians in the woods, I am strongly persuaded our troops will always be an over match for them with equal numbers; except in case of surprise or ambuscade, which it is at our own option to avoid.
        General Sullivan also makes the application to the State of Pennsylvania a consequence of his letters. My letter No. 1—to His Excellency the President will show that, this was a part of the plan before Genl Sullivan was nominated to the command; and my subsequent letters will show that I pressed a compliance in the strongest and most pointed manner.
        He mentions among other things that “one third of his men are without a shirt to their backs⟨”⟩—The letters No. 1 to 5—Packet 5th will make it appear that I took every step in my power to afford a competent supply—and I have the greatest reason to believe that the troops with him had more than a proportion to the general wants and supplies of the army.
        The packet No. 6 contains my instructions from time to time to

Genl Sullivan. No. 7 the intelligence received from first to last and No. 8 sundry papers relative to the expedition which do not immediately affect the subjects of the present letter; but all which may serve to show, that I have paid all the attention in my power to this important object, and made use of every precaution for its success. I hope the event may answer our wishes; but if it should not, my anxiety to stand justified in the opinion of Congress has induced me to give them the trouble of this lengthy communication—I most sincerely thank them for the opportunity they have afforded me of entering into this explanation by the transmission of General Sullivans letter, and I shall be much obliged by a similar indulgence upon every occasion of the same sort.
        I beg leave to conclude with one observation. It may possibly hereafter be said that the expedition ought not to have been undertaken unless the means were fully adequate or that the consequences of a defeat ought not to have been hazarded when they were found to be otherwise—The motives to the undertaking, besides the real importance of rescuing the frontier from the alarms, ravages, and distresses to which it was exposed; and which in all probability would have redoubled this year, were, the increasing clamours of the country and the repeated applications of the States immediately concerned, supported by frequent references, and indications of the pleasure of Congress—The combined force of these motives appeared to me to leave no alternative.
        The means proposed to be employed were fully sufficient; the disappointments we have met with such as could not have been foreseen—as we had no right to expect—So far as the business did not depend on me I had the strongest assurances from those who were concerned, and who were to be supposed the proper judges that my expectations would be fulfilled.
        After such extensive preparations have been made—so much expence incurred—the attention and hopes of the publi⟨c fixed—⟩the apprehensions of the enemy excit⟨ed—their⟩ force augmented—their resentment infla⟨med⟩—to recede, and leave the frontier a prey ⟨to⟩ their depredations would be in every view impolitic, when there is still a good prospect of success. To avoid possible misfortunes we must in this case submit to many certain evils—of the most serious nature, too obvious to require enumeration. I have the honor to be With the highest respect & esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obet servant

          Go: Washington

          P.s. I inclose a return of Genl Sullivans whole force, from the last particular returns to the Adjutant General. This is exclusive of the

party under Col. Pawling (amounting to 300 men). It will appear by this return, that the Battalion officers are included in the number of men present, with arms in their hands—this is done because Genl Sullivan applied for, & obtained an order for this purpose but I cannot undertake to say whether he got them or not.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Smallwood, 15 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Smallwood, William

          D: Sir
          West point August 15th 1779

        I have received Your Letter of the 13th—and thank you for the pains you have taken with respect to Mr Geary. If Mr Hanson or he himself has returned I request that you will get a sight of the Books—that you may discover whether the Articles have been charged to him. At any rate—whether they are charged or not, you will be pleased to enumerate the Articles and direct him by my order to make an immediate return of the whole of them. I would wish, if the Books can be seen, that the point as to their being charged could be ascertained first. If they have not the omission will place his conduct in a much more exceptionable & unjustifiable light. I am Dr Sir with great regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt sert.

          P.S. I approve the measures you took with respect to Aaron Fairchild—and you will detain him with you as long as you may deem it necessary. I return you his examination—as you may have occasion for it—which you will be pleased to put up with the rest of the papers.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 15 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West Point 15th Augt 1779

        I have recd your favors of the 6th and 7th instants. I hope your next will inform me of your arrival at Tioga without interruption, and of your having formed a junction with General Clinton, of which event I am exceedingly anxious to hear.
        I have furnished the Commissary General of Purchases with such parts of your letters as respect your Magazine of provision, and have directed him to ord⟨er⟩ his Deputy to the Westward to exert himself in forwarding a further supply to a place of safety, from whence you may draw it, should you be able to keep your communication, with the Country below you, open.
        We have recd certain information of the taking of St Vincents and Grenada by the Count D’Estaing, between whom and Admiral Byron there had been an Engagement on the 6th July. By the accounts which we have hitherto received it appears that the English Fleet was worsted and had fallen down to St Kitts. The French Fleet appeared off that Island on the 22d July—so that we may every day expect the most interesting intelligence from that Quarter.
        I hope the disorder with which you are troubled will not increase to a degree that will interrupt your personal attention to the service. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 15 August 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

          Dr Genl
          Teaoga [Tioga, N.Y.] August—15th 1779.

        I have the honor to inform your Excellency that I arrived at this place with the army on the 11th inst. without any loss and without

having received the least opposition from the enemy—all the accounts recd from your Excy as well as from every other quarter seemed to agree that the enemy were collecting their whole force at Chemung in order to give us battle. I thought if these accounts were true, it would not be prudent to detach a large part of my force to meet Genl Clinton and expose the residue to the collective force of the enemy. I therefore detached Capn Cummins of Col. Shrieves’ regt with eight active men to reconnoitre Chemung. He arrived before the Town on the morning of the 12th and took post on a mountain wch overlooked the Town, where he remained till 12 o’clock. He returned into camp late in the afternoon of the same day, and reported that he saw both white people and Indians busily employed, but he could not ascertain whether they were preparing for action or for evacuating the place. Immediately upon his return an attack was agreed on and the troops moved at nine o’clock the same evening. Gen: Hand with the light corps moved in front to attack on the North of the Town—Gen. Poor was to attack, on the east-side—Two regiments were detached across the Cayuga to prevent the enemy escaping across the river—I moved on in the main road towards the lower end of the Town for the purpose of supporting the attacking parties, and to prevent escapes in that quarter, having with me the Jersey troops, some volunteers, and some of the artillery corps with a cohorn carried by hand on a machine invented by Col. Proctor. The attack was to begin on all sides at day break. Though the morning was exceedingly foggy, our troops all arrived at their respective posts soon after day break, and moved on so as nearly to meet at the same time in the Town; but we found the Town had been evacuated the evening before. General Hand with the light troops moved up on the east side of the Cayuga branch about a mile beyond the Town, where he found the place of the enemy’s encampment, the night of the 13th. He followed them up the road about half a mile, when a party of about thirty rose and fired upon his advanced party; The general with his troops immediately moved up to charge them, upon which they fled with precipitation. They were persued a little further up, but there appearing no prospect of overtaking them, the troops returned and destroyed the Town together with all their fields of corn and whatever else was found to destroy. A small party fired upon our people when destroying their corn, but was soon forced to fly. We had in the course of the day seven men killed and thirteen wounded, among which was Capn Carbury of Col. Hubley’s Rgt and Lt Huston of the same regiment. Capn Carbury is dangerously wounded, I hope not mortally—Mr Huston’s arm was broken by a ball; all the others are wounded very slightly except Mr Franklin (one of our guides) who is badly wounded tho’ said not

to be dangerous. Most of the injury was sustained by Genl Hands advanced guard and from one fire only, as our troops did not give them opportunity to make a second. The whole loss was from Gen: Hand except one killed and four wounded of Gen: Poors, and two wounded of the Jersey brigade. I cannot say what loss the enemy sustained, but it must have been inconsiderable, as their flight was too sudden to admit of their receiving much injury. Some of their hats were found, and one had a ball through the crown but no dead body was found, which induces me to believe, that none of them were killed outright. I am much surprised that they did not make a greater opposition in defence of their Town; it was most beautifully situated, contained a chappel with between thirty and fourty other houses, many of them very large, and some tolerably well finished. There were fields of corn, the most extensive that ever I saw, with great quantities of pota⟨toes,⟩ pumpkins, squashes, and in short every other thing which any farms could produce—the whole of which was destroyed root and branch. Our troops having completed the business returned the same evening to camp, having performed a march of at least fourty miles in less than twenty four hours, besides going thro⟨ugh⟩ the fatigue of destroying those extensive fields the whole of which they performed with the great⟨est⟩ chearfulness. The whole of their conduct was exceedingly pleasing, and if any fault was discovered, it was their too great eagerness to rush upon the enemy at first sight. I am happy in assuring your Excellency that I am well convinced, no force that this country can produce, can stand before troops so determined as this army. I forgot to mention to your Excellency in my last letter, that the enemy had erected a new Town near Scheshequenung containing twenty two houses, which they abandoned on the approach of our army. Col. Proctor who had charge of the fleet sent on shore & burnt it. I am now sending off a strong body to meet gen: Clinton, & when he joins will proceed without loss of time to execute the residue of my orders. I am &c.

          Jno. Sullivan


Title: From George Washington to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 15 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 15th Augt 1779

        Inclosed you have Extracts of two letters from General Sullivan of the 6th and 7th instants. You will perceive by them, the state of his provision Magazine and his apprehensions from a failure of supplies. He seems determined if possible to keep open his communication with the Country below him—which, if he can effect, he will be enabled to draw further supplies should they be lodged at the proper places. I must therefore desire you will pay a proper attention to this matter, and give your Deputy to the Westward directions to exert himself in procuring and forwarding provisions to places where they will

be safe, and from whence General Sullivan may draw them, should his necessities require it. I am Yr most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 16 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moores-House [West Point]Monday August 16th 79.
          Parole Corsica—  C. Signs Corso. Cork.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 16 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

          Sir
          Head Quarters West point 16th Augst 1779.

        I am favd with yours of the 6th inclosing the instructions of the Board to the different Commissaries of Hides. The directions appear to me to be judiciously drawn and fully adequate to the purpose, and I doubt not, if they are strictly attended to, but that a sufficient quantity of Shoes for the Army, and leather for other uses will be procured—Mr Garanger is exceedingly impatient to know whether he is to be employed—I must therefore beg leave to recall the attention of the Board to my letter of the 27th July in which I pointed out the mode in which this Gentleman may be introduced into the service without giving umbrage to the Officers in the line of the Artillery. I shall be glad to have the determination of the Board upon this point, that I may be enabled to give Mr Garanger a final Answer.


Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 16 August 1779
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir
          Baskinridge [N.J.] Augt 16th 1779

        Since my recovery from my late Indisposition so far as to attend to any Business, I have been looking over the Papers relating to my late Office of Commy Genl of Prisoners, and among them I find the report of my transactions at German Town just before and at the time of the Enemies evacuating of Philadelphia, which was designed for your Excy, but prevented from being sent by my sudden illness.
        Knowing how little Time your Excy has to spare to any unnecessary avocation, I should not now trouble you with a report of so old a date, did I not think it might by accident so turn up, that a knowledge of that transaction may become essentially necessary—At least I think the evidence of such an equivocal piece of Conduct in Persons of so high rank with the Enemy, ought to be preserved—I hope this will excuse my troubling your Excy with these Papers now enclosed—I also add Mr Lorings Justification of himself from the Complaints of Prisoners, which I promissed him to deliver to your Excy, but which has been delayed in the like manner. Am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Erskine, 16 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Erskine, Robert

          Sir
          Head Qrs West-point 16 Augt 1779

        Lord Stirling writes me that a very good road might be opened from Ringwood into the clove, about a mile below Galloways, along the e[a]st side of Tucksets pond. This will be a shorter route from Morris Town to New-Windsor—You will therefore be pleased to mark out the road, and make the proper communication to Lord Stirling that it may be carried into execution. I am

          G.W.


Title: To George Washington from William Gardner, 16 August 1779
From: Gardner, William
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Portsmouth [N.H.] August 16th 1779.

        In conformity to the direction of the Hon’ble Board of War, do now inclose your Excellency an Invoice of sundry Merchandize, forwarded under Care of Mister David Gardner, and address’d to the Clothier at Camp; to be dispos’d of as Your Excellency may please to order.
        I am also particularly directed to inform Your Excellency, that it’s the desire of the Hon’ble Board, you should reserve as much of the Tea & Spices, as you may think proper for your Family’s use; for which purpose, have pack’d them seperate from any other Goods, in Hogshead Number 46, as your Excellency will please to observe by the Invoice. Those Articles, (with others already forwarded to Springfield, & some on hand preparing to be sent) are part of the Continental Moiety of the Prizes taken by the Warren, Queen of France, & Ranger, and brought into this port: There were many valuable Woollens among them, which the Honorable Board directed me to receive & forward to Camp; but previous to the receipt of their Order, Mister Langdon (the Agent here for Prizes &c.) had deliver’d them all (coarse & fine) to the Order of the Navy Board for the Eastern Department; which circumstance, have already inform’d the Honorable Board.
        The prices in Sterling, with the Advance at foot, are exactly as I received the Goods from the ‘foremention’d Agent. In the interim, with due Respect, I am, Your Excellency’s most Obedient & very Humble Servant.

          Wm Gardner, Agt Clothr


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 16 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

          Dear Sir,
          West-point Augt 16th 79

        I beg you to accept my thanks for your obliging letter of the 10th transmitting an extract from Mr Bingham’s. The intelligence it gives

is infinitely interesting, and I hope will be followed by events of still more decisive importance. The conduct of England in respecting the mediation of Spain is more strongly tinctured with insanity than any thing she has done in the course of the Contest, unless she be sure of very powerful aid from some of the Northern States. This seems to be the only rational solution, that can be given to her obstinacy.
        I inclose you a letter from General Wayne, a part of the contents of which he communicated to me concerning some Officers of his Corps whom he omitted in his former report. As this omission has given dissatisfaction; and as the gentle[me]n concerned are very deserving I shall be happy if Congress should think it proper to publish Genl Waynes letter, which I doubt not will effectually remove it. I take the liberty of mentioning this to your Excellency that if you see no impropriety in the publication, you may give it your aid. With the greatest esteem & regard I have the honor to be Dr Sir Yr Most obedt and Obliged Hble Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 16 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

          Sir
          West point August the 16th 1779

        I had yesterday afternoon the honor to receive Your Excellency’s Letter of the 6th with a copy of the Act of the 8th of March and the Report referred to. It might have been better on the score of supplies and some other considerations, if Captain Wilkie’s company had been annexed to the 11th pensilvania Regiment; but as this was not done—and as the arrangement both of Spencer’s and Hubley’s Regiments has been made and it may be difficult, if not impracticable, to introduce the Officers with the Men into the pensylvania line, which would certainly be an act of justice, more especially if they were at the trouble of raising them, it may be best perhaps for things to remain in their present situation. Besides, if the arrangement were to be altered, Spencer’s Regiment would want a company and the 11th pensilvania have one more than the establishment, as it has I believe, it’s complement. The point however is submitted to Congress—and they will be pleased to determine it in such way, as they may think best and most advancive of the service. The Report of the Board of War upon the occasion is returned.
        I intended in my last for the satisfaction of Congress to have transmitted to your Excellency the inclosed Copies of a Letter from Captain Hopkins of Moylan’s Dragoons of the 30th Ulto and from Major General Howe of the 6th Instant, but was prevented through hurry. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 16 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

          Dear Sir
          West point August the 16. 1779

        I had not the Honor till two days ago, to receive Your Excellency’s Letter of the 5th Instant. The whole of the Officers belonging to the Three Jersey Regiments are employed on the Western expedition with General Sullivan, which circumstance puts it intirely out of my power, to comply with Your Excellency’s request for Officers for the recruiting service. If this were not the case, I should fear as Your Excellency does, that the business would not be attended with any great success.
        I congratulate Your Excellency on the very favourable and interesting successes of Count D’Estaing in the West Indies. They are very important and the more so—as they may possibly be the means of detaining for the security of the Islands—that part of the reinforcement expected by Sir Henry Clinton from thence which will be a circumstance of great moment to us, especially if the remainder said to be coming from Europe with Adml Arbuthnot and daily looked for—is as considerable as several advices make it. I hope our next intelligence from the West Indies will announce farther successes on the part of our Allies, and that they will gain a decisive superiority over Adl Biron. I have the Honor to be with great respect & esteem Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt sert

          Go: Washington

          P.S. I would beg leave to remind Your Excellency of the Beacons—They should be attended to—as possibly some measures I have heard of on the part of the Enemy—may be preparatory to a movement—and may make it necessary eventually for the Militia to assemble suddenly.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 16 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

          My Lord.
          Head Quarters West-point 16th Augt 1779.

        I have to acknowlege the favor of your Lordships two letters of the 13th and 15th inst.
        Mr Erskine will receive his orders to-day, to mark out the road, which it has been proposed should be opened, and to make you the proper communication—when you will be pleased to enter upon the necessary measures to have it completed. I am &

          G.W.


Title: General Orders, 17 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moores-House [West Point]Tuesday Augt 17th 1779.
          Parole Granada—  C. Signs Glasgow. Georgia.

        It is with Astonishment, the General week after week receives returns of men unfit for duty “For want of Arms” when there are many hundred stand now, and for a considerable time, have been, with the army for the purpose of supplies, and the mode of application already pointed out in general orders! Nothing, but a most surprising inattention and neglect can account for these deficiencies.
        If after this order any more men are returned “Unfit for duty for Want of Arms” the Adjutant General is to report to the Commander in Chief the regiment & company in which the deficiency happens.
        Notwithstanding the orders against bathing between the hours of eight and five, soldiers are continually in the water and many of them for hours together: The officers commanding brigades will therefore, during the hours above mentioned, post one or more Centinels at the places usually resorted to by their men for the purpose of prevention.


Title: To George Washington from William Fitzhugh, 17 August 1779
From: Fitzhugh, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Low’r Marlbro’ [Md.] Augst 17th 177⟨9⟩

        I had the Honor to receive your favor of the 25th June & ⟨sh⟩ou’d have wrote you Long before this, but as the Meeting of Our General Assembly was at Hand, I waited for the Events in order to Give you the Results of their Proceedings, Especially, relating to Our Army, Speculating, Ingrossing &c.
        We have Pass’d an Act to provide Annually for Our Offi⟨cers⟩, One Compleat Suit of Regimentals, 4 Shirts, & an Allowance of ⟨Rum⟩, Sugar, Tea, Coffee, Chocolate, Tobo &c. at the Current Prices of such Articles—When the War Commenc’d, & left it at the Officers Choice, to ⟨rec⟩ieve If He Pleases £750 Currcy Instead of the Regimentals & Shirt⟨s⟩ & have Provided an Allowance of Rum & Tobo for the Non Comission’d Offrs & Soldiers: We have Also Continu’d the

Prohibition on the ⟨ex⟩port of all Kinds of Provision, & Pass’d an Act to prevent forestal⟨ling⟩ & Ingrossing & to Eppreciate our Money, With very severe Pena⟨ltie⟩s, & Have Appointed a Committee in Every County to See it Du⟨ly⟩ Executed, By this Act all provissions Purchas’d, Except what may be ⟨mutilated⟩bt—Sufficient to Serve the Family of the Purchaser 12 Months, ⟨if adv⟩iseable for the Publick Use, & there is such provission made respecting the Sale of Goods & Merchandise, As will nearly amount to the s⟨to⟩ppage of Trade, & I hope will have a Good Effect, Especially as we have at the Same time laid a Tax on All Estates Real & Personal of £13 ⟨mutilated⟩ the Hundred, to be Collected by the first Day of November Next, These Several Regulations, with Heavy Taxes, I think must Shake ⟨the⟩ Speculators, tho there are several Wealthy Companys, who have Plac’d their Agents from one End of the Continent to the Other, ⟨mutilated⟩ the Stead of One of them, Don Jaun, a Spaniard at Philidelphia, Call’d ⟨the⟩ Spanish Embassador, & much will Depend on the measures adopted in other States.
        With respect to the fuling up our Batalions, Recruiting is to Continue & we have made an Additional Allowance to every recrut of a suit of Cloaths, a Shirt, Hat, & Shoes & Stockens.
        I am Greatly Oblig’d to your Excellency for the Several Judicio⟨us⟩ Hints Contain’d in your Letters of the 10th of April, & 25th of June, Particularly those relating to Our Officers, & the Black Tribe of Speculators: They had much weight in our Legislature, And Assisted Our Deliberations; I cou’d wish That Congress, wou’d bend their Attention, to some General Regulation respecting Trade, Forestaling, Ingrossing, & Speculateing, to be Recommended to the whole United States. It wou’d remove the Evil Effects of that Jealousy, which the States Entertain of One another respectively, regarding their Trade, Indeed (If adopted) the very foundation of its Existance, & Greatly Strengthen the Union.
        I have reflected with Concern on the Long & Tedious Confinement of Our Prisoners at york & Long Island, I mean Our Officers, for I believe the Enemy have Dispos’d off most of Our Private men, & on reading the Report of our Commissioners Lately Appointed to Settle a Cartel, I find that The ⟨Britt⟩ish Declare, They wish not to Exchange for the Officers of the Convention Troops Burgoynes Untill the Regiments to which they belong are also Discharg’d: This is Acknowledgeing an Interrest, in their officers remaining Prisoners, & If not remov’d, will Always Opperate against the Settlement of a Cartel: Seperate the Officers from the Men, & the Interrest Ceases; I believe it is not the Custom of any Nation, to Keep Officers & Privates, Prisoners of War together, Wherefore, I presume this Singular Instance, has

proceeded, from Some Article of the Convention of Sarratoga. Congress Resolv’d, That the Convention was Broken on the Part of Burgoyne & therfore refused to Comply, with one Capitol Article, which was Suffering the troops to Embark at Boston to be transported to Great Brittain; If the Convention was Broken, As I have no Doubt it was, Why Comply with any Part, or Article of it? Does it not Imply a Contradiction, Unfavorable to the Wisdom or Justice of Congress? I am ⟨con⟩fident, If that Honorable Body Had reflected a Moment on ⟨the⟩ Impropriety, & Evil Consequences of Keeping such a Number of O⟨ffic⟩ers & Men together, they never wou’d have Suffer’d it, & wou’d Eve⟨n n⟩ow, Seperate them Immediately. The Impolicy of this Indulgence is ⟨rea⟩lly Obvious, Had the Men been Seperated from their Officers They wou’d have Mingl’d with the Inhabitants of the Several States, & ⟨most⟩ of them become Good & Useful Citizens, We shou’d have Gain’d Strength, & the Enemy been Weaken’d by it; Common Soldiers, when th⟨ey⟩ have an Oppertunity, are fond of Quiting the Military Service & ⟨espec⟩ially on a Continent like this, where they can be so readily Ac⟨quain⟩ted with the Necessaries of Life: Your Excellency will N⟨aturall⟩y Conceive, that I am rather Sanguine on this Subject, & may Im⟨part⟩ it to Interrest, It is true, I have the Feelings of a Father, for a C⟨apt⟩ive Son, & sincerely regret His Long Detention from His Countrys Ser⟨vice⟩, As well as Improvement in His Profession, But Still am Clea⟨r⟩ in Oppinion, That, Justice, Sound Policy, & the Publick Good, require an Immediate Seperation of the Officers from the Soldiers or Priv⟨ate⟩ Men of that Army.
        B⟨e pleas’⟩d to Accept my thanks for the Kind mention you make of my Son. I have not had a Letter from Him Since the 10th of July He was then very well on Long Island, & Seems Satisfied with Every thing except His Loss of time, The Letters which I mention’d, as Stop’d by an Officer on the Brittish Lines, were not to Have Pass’d by Head Quarters, but through the Hands of Our Commissary of Prisoners Via Philadelphia; I have now requested my Son to Send His Letters by Way ⟨of⟩ Head Quarters, & take the Liberty to Inclose you One for Him.
        I ⟨ver⟩y sincerely Congratulate you on the Success of Our Arms at Stoney Point. It was a Glorious Action, & reflects much Honor & Credit on the Brave Officers & Men who Peform’d it.
        I have been Lately Afflicted with the Gout, & am so Blind that I cannot Walk out without a Guide, These Infirmities I am Affraid will Disable me to Continue in the Publick Service, Tho I am Determin’d If Possible to Hold out, Untill there is ⟨a H⟩appy End to the War.
        Mrs Fitzhugh Presents Her respectful Compliments, & Joins with me in best wishes for Your Health, & Success in Arms. I Have the

Honor to be with the Warmest Affection & Regard Yr Excellencys Most Obedt & Oblig’d Hl. Sert

          Willm Fitzhugh


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 17 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

          Sir
          Head Quarters West point 17th Augt 1779.

        I have recd your favr of the 11th instant. From the progress of General Lovells operations at Penobscot, I should have little doubt of his success, were it not for the Reinforcement said to have gone from New York (notice of which I transmitted the Council of Massachusetts) which I fear will arrive before General McLean can be brought to surrender. It will at least render the Work more precarious.
        Immediately upon the Receipt of yours I gave directions to Mr Beatty Commy Genl of prisoners to order Mr Mercerau to his District.
        No official Accounts have been received from Count D’Estaing since his Action with Admiral Byron, but from the letters which have been published, which are from persons of unquestionable Credit, and from the St Kitts account of the Affai⟨r,⟩ little doubt can remain, but that the English Fleet suffered considerably.
        In addition to what will be found in the public prints, Mr Holker Consul of France has favored me with the inclosed. I am Sir Your most obt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 17 August 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Mandavilles [Dutchess County, N.Y.]Augst 17th 1779

        I am informed that one Richardson a Surgeons mate belonging to Colo. Greatons Regt was taken Prisoner at Verplanks Point when Fort De La Fayattee fell into the Hands of the Enemy, and that he is the only person of the faculty belonging to the american army that is now a prisoner—The officers of the Regt are very desireous if Possible to have him exchanged for one of the mates taken at Stony Point, If consistant with your Excellency pleasure—and have desired me to submit

it. I have the honor to be with greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Jean Holker, 17 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Holker, Jean

          Sir.
          Head Quarters west-point 17th Augt 1779.

        I feel myself honored in your polite communication of the 10th instant. The news it brings and that which I promise myself from the arms of the Count D’Estaing gives me the highest pleasure. Whilst in a victorious career of the armies of our ally, in different quarters of the world, we anticipate a reign of happiness and glory to the French nation, and tranquility and peace to America.
        When to the exertions, and resources of these States, we add the power and the wealth of the great house of Bourbon, it is difficult to conceive what policy could direct the court of England to a longer continuance of the war. She is already much exhausted in men, and money, and resources hence we might suppose, that she cannot long resist, alone, the force which is combined against her. She may have Northern assistance in view, which is the only rational solution of her obstinacy. This however may not be the case; nor will she be the first example of a people, losing all eminence in the scale of nations, by pursuing false measures, and vainly trusting to themselves. With great respect & esteem I am Sir your most obedient and very hble servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 17 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          Dear Sir,
          Head Quarters West Point Augt 17th 79

        I have received your letter of yesterday on the subject of our confidential friend.
        It appears to me that the detail he seems to desire will be rather too minute and tend to excite suspicion instead of giving him credit with the enemy. The idea of what was communicated before was to pretend that he had made general observations and inquiries in the army, and had formed an average estimate of the several brigades as the result. The particular strength of each regiment would exceed this purpose and in some measure contradict the principle. But if on his return he finds the present not satisfactory and the enemy press for what he now requires it shall not be refused—Let him in the first place make the experiment with what he has.
        I have thought it necessary to endeavour to impose upon this person himself by making him believe the return sent to the enemy is a true one; if you could assist the deception by indirectly giving him an intimation of your strength conformable to the number expressed in my estimate it may have a good effect—I have stated Glovers brigade at 1160—The cavalry and Armand’s corps at 680—both fit for duty.
        I am really at a loss what opinion to form of this man—His former conduct in this dispute, from the accounts I have had of it are in his favour; his conduct in the execution of his present occupation has not been to his disadvantage: But still there are some little appearances about him that give me distrust, and as the enemy have it more in their power to reward certain services than we have in the way which is most tempting, I always think it necessary to be very guarded, with those who are professedly acting as double characters—This has hitherto prevented my doing any thing for the man in question in the way of office, lest it might really put it in his power to do us mischief; but as the pretext upon which he applies is plausible and may be honest, I shall endeavour to find some place which will answer the purpose and by keeping him mostly remote from the army, leave it the less in his power to turn it to our injury. We must endeavour to make it his interest to be faithful, for as it is apparent he means to get something by the business, and will even receive double wages, we must take care if possible not to let motives of interest on the other side bear down his integrity and inclination to serve us—Few men have virtue to withstand the highest bidder. I am with great regard D. Sir Your obed. servant.

          P.S. I have also received your public letter of the 16th. I have never seen the letter you mention from Col. Armand.
          An acct of one of the important evts which in a late letter I told you I thought the next 10 or 12 days would bring forth, is arrived—the paper herewith inclosed contains a narrative of the west India business.


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 17 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

          Sir
          Head Quarters West-point 17th Augt 1779

        I inclose your Excellency a list of Officers proposed after examination by General Du Portail for the Companies of sappers and Miners. If Congress approve the nomination I request they will be pleased to direct commissions to be sent as speedily as possible. They ought to be dated the second of August 79.
        By the Regulations for the corps of Engineers, the men to form these companies were for the present to be drawn from the line; but the large demands upon it for other purposes in the weak State of our regiments productive of much dissatisfaction to the Officers makes me unwilling to add to the number by drafts for these companies. I have therefore advised General Du Portail to endeavour to recruit in the Country; but in Order to [do] this the Authority of Congress will be requisite; and it should if possible be given in such terms as

will induce the States to forego the operation of the laws which have been made in most of them for preventing the recruiting of any other corps than those which properly compose their quotas.
        Inclosed also is a memorandum of the money for which I have given warrants to Baron De Steuben in the Course of the present year, it amounts to a considerable sum more than his pay established by Congress. This is a subject which embarrasses me—It is reasonable that a man devoting his time and services to the public and by General Consent a very useful one—should at least have his expences borne—His established pay is certainly altogether inadequate to this—a large nominal sum goes but a little way. But while there is a sum fixed by Congress, I am certainly not at Liberty to exceed it; and though I have hitherto complied, from the delicacy of a refusal to a foreigner to a man of high rank—to one who is rendering the most indefatigable and benificial services—yet I shall be under the necessity of discontinuing the practice neither could I recommend that a sufficient allowance should be formally determined; for though there may be less reason to expect foreigners than natives to make pecuniary sacrifices, to this Country and though some of them may have no private resources so remote from home, for their support, yet it would be difficult to reconcile our own Officers to a measure which would make so great and palpaple a difference in the Compensation for their respective services—It is true the Baron from the nature of his Office will often have to travel from one part of the Army to another which will occasion extra expence and will justify an extra allowance—It is upon this principle that my last warrant was granted as he was just setting out on a journey to providence. But perhaps the best mode to enable the Baron or others in his situation to defray their necessary expences in the service may be to invest the Board of War with a discretionary power to grant such sums from time to time as they Judge reasonable and proportioned to the circumstances of the persons and times—I take the liberty to suggest these hints and have only to request that Congress will be pleased to direct some mode in which the difficulties I have pointed out may be remedied, consistent with the good of the service and Justice to individuals. I have the honor to be With great Respect Your most Obedt humble Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Bryan Fairfax, 18 August 1779
From: Fairfax, Bryan
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir,
          Towlston [Va.] Augst the 18th 1779.

        I have lately received Yr Excellency’s Favor of the 30th of June, and altho’ I ought not to desire to hear from you yet it gives me great pleasure to receive one of your Letters, knowing from Experience the Falsehood of that Position advanced by some, that when a Man confers favours upon his Friend beyond the possibility of his Requital, he thereby loses him; but they who think so know little of real Gratitude.
        Your Kindness also to Mrs Savage should stir me up to do what I

can in her Affair when I have consulted some Person on it. The Hearing that the Courts of Law were opened was the Cause of my mentioning it; I am sensible that You cannot at present do any Thing in it. This much I thought it necessary to write by way of acknowledging the Receipt of your Favour; But You need to make no Apologies for not answering Letters; and I must beg that your great Politeness may not induced You to write me one, but Upon some Business which may call for it.
        And now having begun a Letter I will mention something relating to my self which perhaps may not be improper to a Friend; and that is the perplexing Situation I have been in more or less for more than three years, relating to the Subject of preaching; and this besides the many trials I have gone thro’ of various Sorts, which in the End have been of Service to me as an individual: for sufferings and Hardships are of great Service to the Mind, as I don’t doubt you’ve experienced.
        Tho’ it is a very nice point to steer an even Course between the two Extremes of Enthusiasm and of no Religion, as also between the former & that of Lukewarmness, which is represented as a dangerous State, yet it ought to be desired; and tho’ I am told that there is no danger of any Person’s falling into Enthusiasm who is afraid of it, as I have been; yet at the same time I have been apprehensive that that very Fear might deprive me of a greater good.
        Not only our Church but every other Party require a Declaration from the person applying for Ordination, that they are moved thereto by the Holy Spirit; and having myself been much exercised at times upon the Subject, and considering that it was the first choice of my Life (tho’ then laughed out of it) and at many times since, it has been my determination, as far [as] God would enable me to keep it, to spend the remainder of My Life in the Ministry; but I have often been checked in any attempts of that Sort by the Impropriety of doing it without some human Authority also, and have therefore generally confined myself to that Method or some like it that many other Laymen use. Then on the other hand to refrain, when there is no way of getting an Appointment, and every man seems to be left at Liberty, and Sinners want reclaimg and perhaps no Peace ’till a general Reformation, may be as wrong. So that what with these doubts, and the Consideration of those many Circumstances which may make me believe it to be the will of God, or not, and the Backwardness I find at times from Indolence, and the Fear of Shame, and then the doubts whether the bearing the Cross be as essential now as ever—these things I say throw me sometimes into a most distressing Perplexity. Which I mention that you may know the Situation of one of

your Friends who trusts that he means well & who is with the greatest Regard Yr Excellency’s most obliged & affect. humble Servant

          Bryan Fairfax.

          I believe I need not apologize for the paper I write to You on.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 18 August 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Mandevilles [Dutchess County, N.Y.]August 18th 1779

        It has for some time past been reported that numbers of women frequent going to and comeing from the Enemy at Ver Planks Point by which intelligence undoubtedly can be communicated to any part of the Country—I take the liberty to enclose a letter which I received from Genl Nixon the last evening and request your Excellencys direction in this and other like instances—The women are yet detaind but it is difficult to determine how to conduct with this sort of People—I am informed that Colo. Webster at first objected to this sort of intercourse but that upon the representation of Colo. Robinson that many of his Soldiers had wives and relations in the vicinity who would wish to come in it was granted any mode that your excellency may think fit to adopt I will endeavour to have effectually carried into execution.
        I forward two Deserters from Ver Planks Point who came in the last evening. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 18 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          Dr Sir
          Hd Qrs West-point 18 Augt 1779.

        As it is probable, that the new minister from France Monsieur De Luzerne, is on his way from Boston to Philadelphia it will be

necessary to have him provided with an escort—you will therefore be so good as to give orders for a captain (a geinteel sensible officer) with his proper command of cavalry (not less than 30) to proceed immediately to Fish-kill. The officer will acquaint me with the arrival of his party that I may know where to send him my directions. I am &c.

          G.W.

          I send one stick of wax our own stock is low. We get it from the quarter Master to whom you may apply.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 18 August 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Fort Mont[gomer]y [N.Y.] 18th Augt 1779

        A deserter from the 64t British who left Stoney point last night Informs that it was reported, that a Large fleet of Shipping with troops on board had arrived at Sandy Hook, that Sixty Transports was said to be proceeding up the River—but knows nothing of the Intentions of the Enemy, they continue hard at work on their fortifications & have

enclosed them in the Rear with Pickets—& Surrounded the front with a ditch, frieze, & Abbatis, they have one block House Erected in the Rear & one of five sides began in the front Redoubt—on their Right Commanding the ferry & Approach from there to the main work.
        I shall hear further this evening from that Quarter shou’d anything Material turn up you may depend on the Earliest Intelligence. I am with true Esteem your Excellences’ most Obt Huml. Sert

          Anty Wayne


Title: General Orders, 19 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters Moore’s House [West Point]Thursday August 19th 1779.
          Parole Ramapough—  C. Signs Rutland Romney—

        The Pay-Masters of the Maryland and of the 2nd 3rd & 4th 5th & 11th 7th & 8th Virginia regiments and of Armand’s & Von-Heer’s Marechausie, Corps are to apply to the Deputy-Pay-Master General for warrants to draw the hundred dollars gratuity for the men in their respective corps inlisted for the War previous to the 23rd of January last: The Muster-Rolls for those troops being returned.


Title: From George Washington to John Beatty, 19 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Beatty, John

          Sir,
          Head Quarters West Point Augt 19th 1779

        I have considered your report of the 5 instant and the papers accompanying it relative to your transactions with Mr Loring at your

last interview and I shall add a few explanatory remarks to my former instructions.
        The principle which I intended to govern your exchanges as well absolute as parole for such officers of ours as had violated their paroles was, that we should only exchange those who could not be returned; all that can be returned are to be exempted from the benefit of exchange ’till further orders—But as it may be a long time before many of them can be sent in & probably several of them never will be found and it would be injustice to the enemy to detain their officers ’till the experiment could be fully tried you will in the mean time send them in on parole, with an express and positive agreement that whenever any of the aforesaid violators of parole are returned the officers exchanged in lieu of them are either to be returned also, or other officers of equal rank whom we shall demand sent out in their place—This must be clearly determined so as to exclude all dispute or equivocation, for we wish not to make a breach of honor a privilege to the guilty person.
        In order the better to enable you to carry into execution my order for calling in these breakers of parole, you will make me a report according to the best of your information of the states to which they belong and the places where they reside that application may be made for the assistance of the States to enforce their return.
        I observe there are some persons who have been indulged with their paroles by the enemy not violators of parole for wh⟨om⟩ they now demand other officers to be se⟨nt⟩ in—This you will not comply with exc⟨ept⟩ so far as it is perfectly consistent w⟨ith pro⟩priety of capture. The enemy have it at their option to recall them if they think proper.
        You are not to exchange ei⟨ther⟩ Col. Housekker on our part or Mr Co⟨nolly⟩ on the part of the enemy. The former w⟨as⟩ taken in a manner which will not suffer us to consider him in the light of a common prisoner; and the latter has never been considered by us as a milita⟨ry⟩ prisoner of war.
        You are absolutely to reject every overture for exchanging those persons whom we do not consider as military prisoners of war: We do not hold General Clinton bound by any act of ours respecting this matter; but we reject their exchange solely on the principle that by the laws & practice of war, we do not think they were proper subjects of military capture—From this we shall never recede.
        Mr Loring mentions his having 150 privates whom he proposes to exchange for those of some particular corps which he mentions—I have no objection to this provided the principle extends to

officers—You are to insist on the exchange of these on equality of rank, as far as the number in our hands will permit—Now we have removed every supposeable impediment on our side no reason can be assigned why the exchanges of officers as well as men should not go on upon the former ground. One caution I must give you which is that too much pains cannot be taken to prevent the impositions of the enemy in sending out persons of different denominations who were not proper subjects of military capture. You will give the most pointed orders to your deputies to make the strictest inquiry into the circumstances in which every man was taken who does not belong to The Continental army.
        You may include the Convention prisoners as well in your absolute as parole exchanges; but in the former only on the principle of equality of rank.
        Endeavour by all means to have the officers who have recently violated their paroles immediately sent in. I am &c. &c.


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 19 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

          Sir,
          Head Quarters West Point August 19th 1779

        I had the honor to day to receive Your letter of the 8th by Lt Colo. Sims of the 2d Virginia Regiment, with a copy of a letter from him to your Excellency—and of an order of Congress on the 7th in consequence. The indulgence requested by Col. Sims, however interesting it may be to himself appears to me so incompatible with the public service—and to involve—and to lead to so many disagreeable consequences, that I have thought it my duty to refuse it. Were the point

to rest with him, from the circumstances of his regiment in respect to field officers, his request might be granted, without any material injury; but this cannot be expected, as there are many other officers in the same line—who have the same pretentions. And indeed it is difficult, if not impossible for me to determine with precision, where such applications would stop, as they might be made upon the same principles—and, with as much propriety by every officer and Soldier in the army. Those who have not already surveyed Lands—or done some act to acquire a title of ownership may urge if they incline so to do that it is time they should—and insist that they will not neglect the opportunity longer. I have very fully and explicitly pointed out to Col. Sims the probable or at least the possible consequences which would flow from a compliance with his request; but he says he cannot decline it, and waits on Congress to resign his Commission which I refused to accept. In justice to Lt Col. Sims, I must observe that he is a brave, intelligent & good officer; and I am sorry that any circumstances should have arisen in his affairs to compel him, either to resign his commission or to make a request so inconsistent with the public interest. I have the honor to be With the greatest esteem & respect Your Excellency’s Most Obet, servant

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel John Lamb, 19 August 1779
From: Lamb, John
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Fishkills 19th Augst 1779

        As I was at Fredericksburgh (on Public business) when your Excellency’s favour, of the 13th Instant, reached this place it did not come to my hands, till last Evening which will, I presume, apologize, for my not answering it, sooner. The Certificates, respecting the Pay-Master, Quarter-Master, and Adjutant, shall be transmitted your Excellency, as soon as possible.
        I am extremely sorry, to be under the necessity, of taking any Step, that can possibly excite the least pain, in your Excellency’s generous Mind; or, that may have the most distant, tendency, to injure the Cause, in which I have been Embarked, for a series of years, from the most disinterested motives; But Sir, you must allow, that it is

impossible, for a Soldier, who is tenacious of his Honor, to suffer himself, to be degraded by being superceded, and his just Right (the only gewel, worth contending for) torn from him, and given to another, without resenting the cruel injury; in a becoming manner; I must frankly acknowledge, that, my sensibility is deeply wounded, by this Event; And your Excellency, can much better conceive my feelings, than I can possibly describe them.
        When I examine the General Order, of the 10th September last; And observe, the Principle, there laid down, by the Committee of Arrangement, for settling the Rank, of the Army; which, is confirmed, by a subsequent Resolution of Congress, of the 28th Novr I must confess, I am at a loss, to conceive, on what Principle, the Board have decided, in favor of Colo. Crane. And it appears to me, that, they have in this instance, manifestly deviated, from the Principle established by the Board, of Genl Officers, of the whole Line.
        I wish to be indulged, with a Sight, of the proceedings of the Board; for which purpose I will do myself the honor to wait on your Excellency, tomorrow. I have the honor to be, with the greatest Respect, your Excellency’s Most Obdn. Hume Servt.


Title: General Orders, 20 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters Moore’s-House [West Point]Friday August 20th 1779.
            Parole Florence—  C. Signs Falmouth France.

          The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to pass the following Acts.

          In Congress March 8th 1779.
          Resolved—That all Military Commissions be filled up at the War-Office and attested by their Secretary, and then presented for signing to the President of Congress who shall sign the same; After signature by the President they shall be sent back to the War-Office and there registered verbatim in a book to be kept for that purpose; After having been examined by the Board, the Seal of the Board of War and Ordnance, which the said Board are hereby authorized and directed to provide, shall be affixed to the certificate or attestations of the entries of all such commissions.
          Resolved—That all appointments of officers in the continental service by the respective States, be in the first instance by Warrant certified in such a manner as they shall severally direct to the Board of War whereupon proper Commissions shall be made out in the manner above-mentioned.

          In Congress June 28th 1779.
          Resolved—That when vacancies of commissioned officers happen in any regiments raised by the respective States for the Continental Army, notice thereof shall be given to the Executive Authority of the State to which the regiment belongs, by the commanding officer of such regiment, to the end that proper persons may be appointed to fill such vacancies, agreeable to the resolution of the 8th of March last, having due regard to the rules of promotion recommended by a resolution of Congress of the 24th of November 1778.

          The mode prescribed by the foregoing Acts for announcing regimental vacancies to be pursued in the several state lines that have been arranged, as well with respect to vacancies which have already happened where commissions have not been obtained, as to all which happen in future; and the Commander in Chief requests that the commanding officers of regiments will be very particular in the notice they give of resignations, to set down the precise time when they take place.
          The General also thinks proper upon this occasion to republish the Act containing the rules recommended to govern promotions as the tranquility of the Army and good of the service require that they should be fully & generally known.

          In Congress Novr 24th 1778.
          Resolved—That it be recommended to the several States to provide that in all future promotions, officers rise regimentally to the rank of Captain, and thence in the line of the State to the rank of Colonel, except in cases where a preference may be given on account of distinguished merit.
          Lieutenant Hughes of the 1st Pennsylvania regiment, vice, Lieutenant Norcross resigned, is appointed Adjutant to the same and Lieutenant Crawford of the 1st Pennsylvania regiment vice Captain Buchanan is appointed Pay-Master to the same.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Theodorick Bland, 20 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Bland, Theodorick

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 20th Augt 1779

        Your favr of the 26th June, which was handed to me by the Board of War, did not reach me till this day. I hope the timely discovery of the intended Mutiny of the Guards—the infliction of punishment, tho’ light, upon the delinquents—but above all the supply of those necessaries, the want of which seems to have been the principal cause of discontent, will prevent any future disturbances. It is not in my power, circumstanced as I am, to afford any Reinforcement to your Guard, were the occasion ever so pressing. I would therefore advise you, should you find a necessity for a greater number to apply to the State, who may perhaps think it more preferable to order up part of the new state Regiments than to call out Militia. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to the Continental Congress Committee on the Mustering Department, 20 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Continental Congress Committee on the Mustering Department

          Gentlemen
          Head Quarters West-point August 20th 1779

        I was duly honored with your letter of the 5th of last month, which several circumstances have prevented my answering sooner; an attention to other objects of more immediate urgency and the necessity of making inquiries of some delicacy, preparatory to a determination.
        As the question related to the continuing or abolishing a department which has [been] heretofore looked upon as a very necessary

one, I thought it of importance enough to take the sense of a Council of General Officers upon it. The Council upon a full consideration of the matter gave it as there opinion that the department was now become unnecessary and the continuance of it inexpedient—The principles upon which they decided were that part of the duties of the inspectorship were substantially the same with those of the Mustering department; and that the objects of this might be fully obtained in the former with very little additional trouble to the Gentlemen in that line and with a great saving of expence to the public—But after this determination it was requisite to ascertain whether the Inspectors would be willing formally to undertake the office; and it was thought best to sound them with caution as the functions of their present employment are very extensive and it might seem (though in reality it was not) to be imposing too heavy a burthen; and because the Muster Master’s department has hitherto been regarded rather as a civil than a military one—The greatest number has been now consulted and have Chearfully agreed to undertake the business the remoteness of others has prevented their sense being known.
        The Baron himself thinks it will be advancive of the service—It is thought as the Officers of the inspectorship are among the best in the line, and as they derive weight from their military rank, they will be better able to answer the purpose of the Institution. I took the liberty to throw out a hint that the union of these departments would no doubt be an additional motive to the public to continue and extend their privileges; but no extension need take place at present.
        Upon the present plan all the Inspectors yet appointed are attached to Brigades & divisions; there must be one or two appointed not attached to any particular corps to muster occasionally the detachments remote from the Army in garrison &c. This I apprehend from the present establishment of the Inspectorship I have power to appoint.
        Congress in [abolishing] the mustering department will have to transfer the duties to the Inspectorship; but it will be proper to provide that no Colonel shall muster his own regiment. Before I conclude I think it a piece of Justice to observe that Colonel Ward has always appeared to me attentive industrious and intelligent in the execution of his duty; and the Conduct of the Officers under him has given satisfaction. I have the honor to be With great respect Gentlemen Your most Obedt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 20 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters West point 20th Augt 1779.

        I have both your favs. of Yesterday. I have not the least objection to your foraging as far as you can consistent with safety, and with your present force. My desire to put this post into as perfect a state of security as possible, renders it inconvenient to spare you any more troops. I approve of your determination to leave your Baggage well in your Rear should you go down for the purpose above mentioned.
        Your mode of treating  is judicious, and meets my approbation. If he can be convinced that it is more to his interest to serve us

than to trust to the precarious issue of the success of the enemy in the present contest, he will probably execute his business with fidelity.
        It is not my intention to send the Escorte from Colo. Sheldons Horse further than is absolutely necessary. I hope to have it in my power to releive them on this side the River. If circumstances will admit, you may depend upon its being done.
        I have the pleasure to acquaint you that Major Lee of the Light Dragoons with a detachment of Foot surprized the Enemy’s strong post at Paulus Hook opposite N. york the Night before last. I have not the particular Returns of the Enemy’s loss or our own—But my Report from Lord Stirling, who had only reced a verbal message from Major Lee, says we made about 150 prisoners and that our loss was but three Men—My next will be more particular.
        I know not whether the last paper I transmitted to you contained the account of the intended descent upon Ireland by 25000 french troops. The present does, and I can venture to assure you that the matter may be depended upon. I am &.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 20 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

          Dear Sir,
          West-point Augt 20th 79.

        By means of the Spies employed by —— you may, I conceive, obtain very accurate Intelligence of the Incampments Piquets—&ca of the light Troops without Kings bridge & the strength of the Corps—and know whether it is practicable to beat up their quarters with a reasonable prospect of success. The distance, though disadvantageous in some respects, is favourable in others; for being thought to be out of surprizing distance, the enemy will be less on their guard, and the stroke become more sure & severe.
        Nothing but certain knowledge of proper requisites will warrant undertakings of this kind—nor nothing but great precaution and the utmost secrecy give success to them—for this reason every necessary step must be taken to ascertain the first—and every avenue near the Enemys Camp way laid to stop intelligence getting to them to ensure the second—The parties employed on this latter duty (except the Officer commanding it, who ought to be a very prudent & vigilant one) should be unacquainted with the design. Nor should their be any movement in your Camp before they are detached lest a deserter should communicate the design—or in other words inform that something is in agitation, & put them upon their guard. While the prisoners in case of success are moving rapidly from the danger of a rescue which may be attempted, the covering party should form if there is any appearance or advice of this ambuscades, in advantageous grounds & defiles proper for infantry & disadvantageous for Horse to act in. Having sd so much just to convey the genl scope of my ideas I will not enlarge; your own prudence & judgment will supply the rest—The Yaugers I am told lye in a situation easy to be surprized—this has given rise to this Letter—& the paper inclosed contains intelligence of their situation which may compare with other Accts. I am sincerely Dr Sir Yr obed. Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Henry Knox, 20 August 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

          Sir
          West Point 20th Augst 1779

        I have received the reports from Major General McDougal Brigadier Du Portail and yourself of this date on the subject of the batteries cannon and ammunition necessary, for the defence of West Point.
        The motive there suggested concurs with others to make me desire there should be a speedy and ample supply of powder at this post and in the vicinity—We cannot now undertake any operations however necessary, which may require a considerable expenditure of this article—from the present absolute scarcity of it—I am informed the arrival of a large quantity is momently expected. You will therefore please to write to the Board representing our situation and requesting in pressing terms, that in case of such arrival, no time may be lost in forwarding what you deem a competent supply, as well for offensive operations against the enemy’s posts should they become adviseable as for the defence of this.
        You will at the same time have a sufficient number of cannon ball of proper sizes prepared for the same purposes that we may be at no loss on this account. I am with great esteem Sir Your most Obet servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 20 August 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

          Tioga [Pa.] 20th Augt 1779

        Extract of a letter from General Sullivan, dated Tioga, August 20, 1779.
        “I have the pleasure to inclose your Excellency a copy of a letter from General Clinton, by which you will find that the much desired junction will be formed tomorrow. I inclose you a copy of my orders

to General Poor who, in company with Gen. Hand and 1000 chosen troops, have joined General Clinton. I hope, on Monday the 23d inst. to begin a rapid movement into the Indian country.
        “I suppose the Indians must be collecting their force about French Catharine’s or Conosadago; but I am convinced, that no force they have can now injure us. General Clinton burnt a small number of towns as he came down the river, which seemed to have been forsaken some time. Brandt was wounded in the foot at Minisink, and had arrived at Chemung before we burnt it; we took the mare he rode home, but he escaped, leaving her loaded with beans and corn: He is said to be rendered unfit for service for this campaign.”
        “The provisions brought here by Genl Clinton will I hope enable us to compleat the Business, but even this will not answer unless more provisions are sent on to Wyoming to be transported to this place for support of the Garrison here and for our subsistence when we return: But Colo. Butler informs me that none have yet arrived. We have been obliged to cut up a number of our best Tents in order to make Bags to transport Flour—The Flour having been sent up in Barrels in preference to the Kegs designed for us.”