Title: General Orders, 13 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Pompton Plains [N.J.] July 13th 1777.
Canterbury.Chatham. Coventry.

The Commander in Chief approves the following sentences of a General Court Martial held the 7th, 8th and 9th instant, whereof Col. Walter Stewart was President, and orders, that they be put in execution forthwith—vizt:
Lieut. Cummings of the 1st Virginia regiment charged with “Messing with common soldiers, and speaking disrespectful words of the commanding officer of the regiment, and with carrying a soldier belonging to said regiment away”—The Court having no evidence to prove the charge of speaking disrespectful words of the commanding Officer of the regiment, cannot determine whether he is guilty or not guilty of that charge—They are of opinion, considering the peculiar circumstances of the matter (as to the charge of his messing with private soldiers) related by the prisoner, and having no evidence to prove the contrary, that he should be reprimanded by the commanding officer of the regiment he belongs to, at the head of the regiment—The Court do excuse the prisoner for taking a soldier away from the regiment considering the bad state of health he was in.
John Walker, Serjeant in Capt: John Steel’s Independent Company, charged with “Absenting himself twelve days from his company without permission”—pleaded guilty, but that he was returning to his company when taken up—sentenced to be reprimanded at the head of the company, and one month’s pay to be stopped from him.
Anthony Escott, Serjeant in Capt. Steel’s Independent Company, charged with “Absenting himself from the said Company twelve days without permission”—pleaded guilty—sentenced to be reprimended at the head of the company, and one month’s pay to be stopped from him.
Serjeant Mottersboth of Col. Patten’s Regiment, charged with “Desertion”—found guilty, and sentenced to be reduced to the ranks, and one month’s pay to be stopped from him.
John Field and John Martin of Col. Angell’s regiment charged with “Desertion, and endeavouring to go to the enemy”—found guilty of desertion, and sentenced, each of them, to receive One hundred lashes on the bare back, and to be sent on board one of the Continental frigates, to serve during the times of their inlistments.
Lieut: Samuel Smith of the 8th Pennsylvania regiment charged with “Ungentlemanly behaviour in the regiment and disobedience of orders”

—Acquitted of the charge of ungentlemanly behaviour; But found guilty of disobedience of orders, in not attending the parade as constantly at ordinary times, as he ought to have done; and sentenced to be severely reprimanded in General orders—The Commander in Chief is extremely sorry that an officer, of whom it is testified, that in a post of danger he behaved with “prudence & Spirit”—should be guilty of neglect of discipline, which is so essential to form the good soldier; a neglect contrary to orders—highly injurious to the service, and disgraceful to the subject of it—A neglect, for which neither prudence nor bravery can compensate, and which, if persisted in, must be an effectual bar to promotion.
John Daugharty of the Artillery charged with “stabbing Lieut. Carrington of the 7th Virginia regt”—The Court having considered the charge & evidence, are of opinion that the prisoner is guilty of stabbing Lieut: Carrington of the 7th Virginia regimt: And they are likewise of opinion, that tho’ the prisoner is guilty of the charge against him, he was justifiable in doing it, as he acted in the way of his duty.
John Briggs of the 4th Pennsylv: regt charged with “Desertion, and attempting to go the the enemy”—acquitted, and ordered to be released from confinement.
Serjeant Alexander Shaw, and Serjt Christian Closs, of the 4th Pennsylv: regiment—charged with “Deserting from the 1st Maryland regiment, inlisting into the 4th Pennsylvania regiment, and persuading others to desert”—The witnesses, to prove the charge against the prisoners, being in the first Maryland regiment, which is gone to Peek’s-Kill, the Court released the prisoners from confinement for the present subject; to be tried when the witnesses can be procured
Philip Rynbecker of Col. Patten’s regiment, charged with “Desertion”—found guilty, and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his bare back.
Hugh Cunningham of the 3rd New Jersey regimt charged with “Desertion”—found guilty, and sentenced to receive fifty lashes on his bare back.
Serjt Silver of the Artillery charged with “Disobedience of orders”—found guilty, in the instance of refusing to confine John Daugharty of the Artillery, when order’d to do it by Lieut. Carrington of the 7th Virginia regt and sentenced to be reduced to the ranks.
The Commander in Chief likewise approves the following sentences of a General Court Martial, held the 10th Inst. whereof Col. Chambers was president, and orders that they be put in execution forthwith. vizt.
Capt. Connolly of the 4th Pennsylv: regt charged with “Inlisting Soldiers belonging to the 1st Maryland regiment contrary to the Articles of war”—The witnesses to prove the charge against the prisoner being

gone forward to Peek’s Kill, the Court released Capt. Connolly from arrest, for the present; subject to be tried when the witnesses can be procured.
Michael Frits in Col. Chambers regiment, charged with “Desertion”—pleaded guilty—The court on account of his youth sentenced him to receive fifteen lashes on his bare back.
Samuel Fisher of Col. Chambers regiment charged with “Desertion”—found guilty, sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his bare back.
John Grant of the 14th Virginia regiment, charged with “sleeping on his post”—pleaded guilty—sentenced to receive twenty-five lashes on his bare back—but it appearing in evidence that he was a good, orderly, well-behaved soldier, and was probably unwell when on sentry—The Commander in Chief remits his punishment.
Patrick Murphey, a soldier in Col. Hartley’s Regiment, charged with “sleeping on his post”—pleaded guilty—sentenced to have half a month’s pay stopped from him.
James McMullen of Capt: O’Harra’s Company, in Col. Hazen’s regiment, charged with “Desertion, with a view of getting to Ireland”—pleaded guilty—sentenced to receive one hundred lashes on his bare back, and to be sent on board one of the Continental Frigates to serve for the time he inlisted for.
James Buckelau, Peter Schenck and Lewis Fenton of the 1st New-Jersey regiment, charged with “Desertion”—The Court, having no evidence to prove the charge ordered the prisoners to be released from confinement, and to be sent to the regiment they belong to.
John Morgan of Col. Green’s regiment, charged with “Desertion, inlisting twice, and receiving two bounties”—pleaded guilty—The Court sentenced him to receive one hundred lashes on his bare back, and the bounty he received from the officer in Col. Wyllys’s regiment, to be stopped out of his pay, by the Captain to whose company he belongs, in Col. Greene’s regiment, and paid to the officer in Col. Wyllys’s battalion who inlisted him.
Joshua Morehouse of the 3rd New-Jersey regiment charged with “Desertion”—pleaded guilty—from the prisoner’s appearance and behaviour, the Court conceive he has never as yet been of any service to the Country, nor ever will be able to render it any—they therefore are of opinion he should, and do sentence him, to be drummed out of the service, and the wages he has due to him to be stopped—The Commander in Chief confirms this sentence, and directs that the commanding officer of that regiment inquire why such a man was inlisted, and what officer inlisted him, and make report to him.
Abraham Hamilton of Capt: Durkee’s Independent Company, from

Wyoming, charged with “Desertion”—pleaded guilty—sentenced to receive fifty lashes on his bare back.
Matthew Myers of the 3rd Pennsylvania regt charged with “Desertion”—The Court postponed their determination concerning him.
As the weather is bad, and the ground wet, the General orders a gill of rum to be served to each man immediately.
From intelligence lately received, the General informs the army, that it is possible the next move of the Army may be towards the Delaware: But desires no steps may be taken towards it ’till further orders.
Thomas Fosdick Esqr: was on the first instant appointed Brigade Major to Brigadier General Glover, to be respected and obeyed as such.
Roger Alden Esqr: is appointed Brigade Major to Brigadier General Huntington, and is to be respected and obeyed as such.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Ezekiel Cheever, 13 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Cheever, Ezekiel

Sir
Pumpton Plains [N.J.] 13th July: 1777.

Yours of the 3d Instt has been duly received. Your business to Boston seems to have been of a material and necessary nature, and I am happy to hear you were likely to get it accomodated.
As the present time is peculiarly interesting, and requires the attention and exertion of every person in the line of duty assigned him, I must request your constant attendance and closest application & care in your department, and that nothing in your power may be omitted to promote the public service. There is One thing more I would particularly recommend as demanding your greatest attention, activity and circumspection—which is, that you should have all the Stores & Articles committed to your charge in such a train, as to move ’em in case the situation of Affairs should make it necessary—This caution I have thought it expedient to give you, as it is impossible to tell what events may cast up in the vicissitudes of War, and that you may take measures, which will certainly insure to you a sufficient number of Waggons to be within your command in a time of exigency. Upon the salvation of our Stores every thing depends. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt servt

G.W.

P.S. I don’t know under whose care, the making of Cartridges is—whether under Your’s or Colo. Masons—but I beg every attention to be had to this business.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General George Clinton, 13 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Dear sir
Pumpton Plains [N.J.] July 13th 1777

I have this moment receiv’d your Favor of the 11th Inst. by Mr Conoly, & from your recommendation have not the least Objection that he should be appointed to one of the Lieutenancies you mention; provided

it can be done without any just cause of offence to the other Officers of that Corps—If these Commissions have ever been granted, & the Officers by Resignation or otherwise quit the Regiment, in this case, the inferior Officers will justly think themselves Intitled to the Promotion—but if they never have been fill’d, I think Mr Conoly may be appointed without giving any sort of Umbrage for doing which you have my full consent.
I am happy to hear that Matters are so forward for obstructing the passage up the North River, & request that they may be compleated with all possible Dispatch & in the best manner, As, from the present appearance of Things, I must be of opinion that their strength may soon be put to a severe trial. I am with Esteem Dear Sir Yr mo. Obedt servant

Go: Washington

P.S. As I have very frequent Complaints of Officers being appointed in this manner, I must Intreat you to be very particular in this Matter.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Du Coudray, 13 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Du Coudray, Philippe-Charles-Jean-Baptiste Tronson

Sir,
Head Quarters Pompton Plains [N.J.] July 13th 1777

Your favour of the 4th Instant by Capt. De Goy was handed me the 11th. I was then on my march for this place, which, together with other intervening circumstances, has put it out of my power before to consider your observations, and form a determination concerning them.
You seem to have misunderstood the purport of what I said in my last with respect, to the heavy pieces that came in the Amphtrite, and to suppose, that I considered them as intirely unfit for service and incapable of transportation. I meant only to point out the inconveniency of them in comparaison with others of a much lighter construction, and the advantage that would be derived from casting them over, and producing three pieces of a larger calibre instead of one; and informed you that with a view to these, I had given directions for them to remain at Springfield and be cast anew upon the model on which the pieces generally in use in our army are constructed. I am sensible that they might be made use of; but I am convinced from my own experience and that of others, that their weight is a very great disadvantage—that they are not transportable but with great difficulty through the mountainous and woody country in which our operations most commonly are; and that they are extremely liable to be lost when any accident or misfortune happens. This must be obvious on the slightest reflection,

and it is also self evident, that they require a greater force in horses and men to transport and manage them than pieces two thirds lighter, unless the superior weight of metal in the former, was counterballanced by their carriages being framed on better principles, than those of the latter, which I have no reason to believe is the case from any description I have had of them. And as it is not the case, the necessity that their carriages should be proportionably substantial to support them, adds to the inconvenience of weight, and the difficulty of transportation.
To compensate for this disadvantage, I know of only two considerations that can be offered: The one—that their length is conducive to exactness, and the other, that it increases the distance of the balls flight. The difference in these respects is not very great nor are These advantages by any means equivalent to that of a piece being light and easily portable: For field Artillery, being designed to act against numbers, to do execution, the object ought to be near, and within reach of grape shot. If it is, the distance to which the piece will carry is nearly out of the question; and the difference in the exactness of which two pieces are capable, will make little difference if any in the effect of their fire.
The length of a piece may be useful in barbette-firing, but this is of little moment compared with the inconveniences that attend it; and we have found by experience that those in use with us have answered every valuable end in this way.
The British army sensible also of the necessity of light pieces in a country like this seldom or never make use of any other. They even exceed us in their attention to this particular, and bring into the field very few pieces heavier than three or four pounders, weighing from 220 to 300 wt.
The alteration I propose is not a new experiment. I mean only to reduce them to the same standard with the general run of the Artillery in this army; which we have the fullest evidence will be far more convenient; and which have been from repeated trial found sufficient for every desireable purpose.
You suggest the impropriety of letting the twenty one pieces remain unemployed, during the time they undergo a new manufacture, while the present moment calls for them in the field. This observation is not without force; but it has been fully weighed, and considering all things, is not of importance enough to make it expedient to forego the advantages of reducing them to a more portable size, and increasing the number by casting them over.
You also misconceived, what I said with respect to the light cannon, waiting at Springfield, till Ammunition, waggons, and men sufficient

for them, could be prepared to accompany them. I did not intend that they should wait ’till the waggons could be made, and ’till a proper number of men to manœuvre them could be instructed in their duty; but only ’till ammunition could be fitted up, waggons procured in the most expeditious manner and men come on from the Eastward which they will do as fast as possible. You cannot but suppose, Sir, that I am fully desirous of having all the Artillery that I deem proper for the service, with the army; and that I shall take every step our circumstances will permit, to hasten them forward. Twenty light pieces and two heavy are by this time at or very near Peeks Kill, and the remainder of the light will come on as soon as they can be accommodated with horses & other necessaries.
I am at a loss to conceive how you could imagine that I had been governed in my determinations on this matter by the advice of Monsieur Du Plessis. Though that Gentlemans conduct since he has been in this country, has been such as to acquire him every proper mark of attention; yet it can hardly be supposed, that either General Knox or myself would repose so implicit a confidence in his representations and counsels as to regulate our measures intirely by them in an affair of so much consequence. I had a description of the pieces from several others, who had an opportunity of seeing them, and whose accounts perfectly agree with your own; and from this I determined what should be done with them. Monsieur Du Plessis never hinted an idea of casting them over before it was resolved to do it.
You are even mistaken as to the fact of Monsieur Du Plessis being an Aid Du Camp to General Knox. With a commission of Captain of Artillery in the American service, he only acts as volunteer in General Knox’s family.
I shall be at all times obliged to you for any information respecting the state of the Artillery, and your opinion as to any thing you may think eligible; but I am not as yet authorised to consider you as giving advice or direction in an official capacity; since Congress have not instructed me in what light I am to view you; and I am not at liberty to anticipate events, that may hereafter take place, or to suppose you invested with any character that they have not delineated you in to me. For this reason, it would be irregular to interfere with any arrangements General Knox has made with my approbation, in compliance with those you propose. Therefore, and as every thing seems to me to be already in a very good train, I do not think it necessary that Capt. De Goy should proceed to take the direction of the pieces coming on as you recommend.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 13 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Pompton [N.J.] 13th July 1777.

Yours of the 30th ulto found me at this place. Upon the Enemy’s quitting Jersey and embarking, there was the strongest presumption to think, that this sudden alteration of their original move towards Philadelphia could only be owing to an intent to co-operate with Genl Burgoyne and the Northern Army. It was therefore determined to move this army up towards Peekskill to be ready to act as occasion might require. Whatever might have been Genl Howe’s intentions a few days ago, there remains but little doubt of what they will be when he gets intelligence from the Northward. You will by this time have heard all that I at present know, which is, that Genl St Clair with the Garrison, evacuated Ticonderoga and Mount Independance on the 6th instant, before a Gun was fired at or a Battery raised against them.
What could have induced him to take this most extraordinary Step, yet remains to be known; we have not a line from him since the 3d of July when he wrote seemingly in good Spirits and without the least apprehension, he had a Garrison of five thousand Men well supplied with provision, Ammunition and every kind of Stores. What is most extraordinary of all is, that upon the 9th Genl Schuyler could hear nothing of Genl St Clair or the Army. He must have retreated towards No. 4 or they have every Man fallen into the Enemy’s hands.
Genl Schuyler is at Fort Edward with about twelve hundred Regular Troops and some Militia. I have ordered the Men belonging to Putnam’s, Greaton’s, Aldens and Nixons Regiments who you say are on their march to join him as quick as possible, as the remainder of their Regiments are there. This Reinforcement is all that could possibly be spared under our present Circumstances—As there never was so pressing an occasion for Troops, I entreat you will hurry on those remaining

in your State with all possible dispatch. Let those intended for the Northern Army steer towards Albany, near which place they will find Genl Schuyler endeavouring to form an Army, those whose Regiments are at Peekskill are still to go to that place. I imagine Genl Schuyler has sent for assistance from the Western parts of your State; and I hope you and the Gentlemen of your Council and Assembly will do all in your powers to animate them to step forth. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Let every party that you send off be fully supplied with Ammunition, which should be delivered to the Officer and carried with their Baggage. If it is put into their Cartouch Boxes, it will probably be damaged by weather before they arrive at the place of destination.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 13 July 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston July 13. 1777

On the 11th Instant we recd the disagreeable Intelligence that on the night of the Sixth our Army Evacuated the Works at Ticonderoga and Mount Independence, and had retreated by Castle-town and Skeensborough towards Bennington. What the reasons for this Retreat were, we cannot as yet Learn, and all at present seem asstonished at it, as the Militia from all Quarters were marching to their aid. What increases the misfortune is, that all the Stores, Tents & Camp Utensils are lost the D.Q.M. General at Albany has wrote in the most pressing manner for Tents, Duck, Camp kettles & Tin to be sent on to their releif immediately. We have sent on about 1000. Kettles, 600. of which are Tin, a number of Tents & a considerable quantity of Duck.
We cannot certainly learn what number of Troops our Garrison consisted off at Ticonderoga, The Express informed me that they were about 5000. Strong including the Militia. It is said the Enemy are about the same number. General Schuyler had two of our best Regiments viz. Baileys & Wessons at Albany, The former by a Return which Colo. Bailey sent a few days since was upwards of 400 Strong in the Field including Officers. He (General Schuyler) has since marched towards Fort Edward in order it is said to make a Stand at that place.
The Council have this Day received your Excellency’s Letter of the

seventh Instant by Express, they have favored me with a sight of it and are now deliberating upon its Contents, and I doubt not will take the most prudent Steps to guard against a Surprise should the Enemy attempt anything this way. I shall do every thing in my power to aid and assist them.
Mr Ward Secretary of the State of Rhode Island informed me yesterday, that just before he left providence, it was reported that a party of our Troops had crossed over to the Island in the Night and had surprised & taken General Prescott and one of his aids de Camp in bed, and had safely brought them off—I hope it is true.
Colo. Faneuill and the Officers who are with him, who some Time since solicited a Regiment of Congress, & were denied; and afterwards received a handsom consideration from this State, as a reimbursment of their expences & to enable them to return home, are now applying for leave to serve as Volunteers in our Army. I find the first Step to it is the advance of some Money, the next promotion, I have informed them that I cannot assure them either, They then requested that I would ask your pleasure, whether they may serve as Volunteers in our Army or not. I promised them that I would lay the matter before your Excellency—I accordingly beg leave to do it. Several others have lately arrived Who have come to offer themselves to serve in the American Cause—It seems France is disposed to furnish us with Stores & Officers; but do not chuse at present to make War. The Gentlemen tell me that Event may probably take place the next Year.
We this moment have the agreeable Intelligence that Capts. Manly & McNeil lately fell in with the Fox Frigate of 28 Guns (lately built on the new construction) off the Banks of Newfoundland, which they took with the loss of seven killed The Enemy lost the same number in killed. They afterwards fell in with a 40 Gun Ship whom they engaged and most probably would have taken; but a 64 Gun Ship bearing down upon them, they were obliged to quit her—The Frigate was manned from our two ships and a number of her own hands who immediately engaged in our Service and is Cruising with them.
Colo. Putnam who was on his march to Peekskill with a strong reinforcement for his Regiment met an Express on the seventh Inst. at Springfield, informing of him that his Regiment was gone for Albany. He immediately took the Rout for that place. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Obedient Servant

W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 13 July 1777
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Peekskill [N.Y.] 13th July 1777

Previous to the Receipt of your Favour of the 12th Inst., I had ordered down a Number of Transports and shall have more than a Suffiency for Gen. Glovers Brigade, should more be wanted.
I have frequently reconnoitered the Roads in this Neighbourhood and do not find that any of them may be obstructed with Propriety, except perhaps the cross Road you mention, on the Right—I shall take a more particular View of them to Day.
I have ordered ten Days hard Bread at Fort Montgomery, and 50,000 Wt on Board Shallops to lie above the Chain, between the Forts, for the Convenience of supplying these Posts or of removing it should Occasion require, there are also large Quantities of hard Bread at Esopus.
Twenty two Feild Peices with their Apparatus complete arrived Yesterday at Fishkill.
Mr. Root called on me on his Return from Jersey, as he was then out of Employ, and appeared to me a very proper Person, I appointed him to act as Depy Ajt Genl for this Department, and wish it may meet your Approbation, I have not seen Col: Cornhill, nor did I know where he was to be found.
I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect Your most Obet H. Servt

Israel Putnam


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 13 July 1777
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Peeks Kills [N.Y.] July 13th 1777

Just received Information from one Charles Miel who has been down below fort Lee to make Observation on the Enemy’s movements, That a Sloop of 14 Guns & the row Galley ly off Col: Philip’s, the rest of the Ships are by Staten Island That the Inhabitants told him a fleet was gone up the East river and Some large Ships out at the Hook; which induces me to beleive, if the Information is Just, that the Enemy design an Expedition Eastward. Shall pay the utmost attention to the motions of the Enemy & the Safety of this post; have Sent major Burr Eastward to Stanford & Faerfield agreable to your Excellency’s orders—there is but a tun & a half of powder at Fish Kills, and not a Sufficiency of Catridges here—I have Sent to Springfield for 4 Tun of powder and a quantity of Catridges, understand they are not to be had there.
Col. Bigalow is not arrived nor any of his men Should be glad to

know, Wheither, he is to go Northward or Come here. With the highest esteem & respect Am your Excellencys Obedient humble Servant

Israel Putnam


Title: General Orders, 14 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, at Van Aulen’s [N.J.] July 14th 1777.

Each Major General will order the guards necessary for the security of his own division.
The Quarter Master General with his deputies will mark out the ground for the encampment of each division to morrow—And as the army will arrive on its ground early in the day; as soon as the men are settled in their quarters, the officers are critically to inspect their arms and accoutrements, and have them put in the best order possible—The Commander in Chief was surprised to day to see the bad condition of many arms they being not only unfit for fire, but very rusty, which latter defect it is certainly in the power of every man to prevent, and the neglect of it must arise from an inexcusable inattention of the officers.
The tents are to be struck at gun-firing to morrow morning (which will be at the usual time) and the whole army got ready to march—At five O’Clock one field piece is to be fired; & then the march is to begin; and as the baggage of each brigade will join its brigade to night, ’tis to follow close after it to morrow—The whole army to march of from the left, in half platoons, the brigades following each other in the order observed this day, saving that the baggage (as before directed) will immediately follow the brigade to which it belongs—As the distance is not great, no part of the army is to halt ’till it arrives at the ground for encamping.
If it should rain to morrow morning, the army is to remain in its present encampment.
On a march neither officer, nor soldier, is to pay a salute, or pull of the hatt to the Commander in Chief, or other officer passing by.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 14 July 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philada July 14th 1777.

You will perceive from the enclosed Resolve that there are at present about fourteen Hundred Men at Philada and Billingsport who are ready to march, and wait only for your Orders.
The Congress have recommended it to the State of New York and to the Eastern States, to send such Reinforcements of their Militia to your Assistance and also to the Assistance of Genl Schuyler as may, from Time to Time be requested; and I have accordingly addressed them on the Subject.
P.S. 6 O’Clock P.M. Since writing the foregoing, your Favour of the 12th Inst. came to Hand, and Congress have issued Orders to Genl Nash to march immediately to Head Quarters with all the Carolina and Virginia Troops under his Command. Similar Orders have likewise been issued to Colo. Proctor to march with his Regiment of Artillery which was raised for the State of Pennsylvania, but has been since taken into Continental Service. I have the Honour to be, with the greatest Respect Sir Your most obed. & very hble Servt

John Hancock Presidt

A Comme of Congress are Sent to Head Quarters to Consult respectg the Commissary’s Departmt.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 14 July 1777
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Fort Edward [N.Y.] July 14th 1777.

On the 12th Instant General St Clair arrived here—As he fell in with Hudson’s River about twelve Miles below this, I ordered the Troops to halt at Fort Miller, having no Kind of Shelter for them, at any other place and not even a Sufficiency of Boards at that—What the Number is that have arrived, I have not yet been able to learn, as the greatest Confusion imaginable prevails here—General St Clair supposes about fifteen hundred. Nor can I say what Militia are in this Quarter—I do

not however suppose that our whole Strength in this Department exceeds four thousand five hundred Men.
Colonel Warner, with the Remains of his Regiment, I have ordered to remain on what are commonly called the New Hampshire Grants, together with the Militia from that part of this State—He has Directions to drive off all the Cattle and Carriages, but whether he will be able to effect it is a Doubt, as I am informed a very great proportion of the Inhabitants are taking protections from General Burgoyne as most of those in this Quarter are also willing to do.
Two Regiments of the Militia from the State of the Massachusetts, under the Command of Leonard and Wells, who were sent up to supply, in part, the Deficiencies of the other Regiments from that State are to a Man gone Home.
General Nixon arrived the Night before last with his Brigade—From the Slowness with which they moved from Albany to this, being four Days marching forty six Miles, I was led to conclude that they were a formidable Body: but to my great Mortification I find the whole to consist of five hundred & seventy five Rank and File fit for Duty and eleven sick—Several of these are Negroes and many of them young small and feeble Boys.
Desertion prevails and Disease gains Ground nor is it to be wondered at, for we have neither Tents, Houses, Barns, Boards or any Shelter, except a little Brush—Every Rain that falls, and we have it in great Abundance almost every Day, wets the Men to the Skin—We are besides in great Want of every Kind of Necessaries, provisions excepted—Camp Kettles we have so few that we cannot afford above one to twenty Men. Altho’ we have near fifteen Tons of powder, yet we have so little Lead, that I could not give each Man above fifteen Rounds, and altho’ I have saved about thirty pieces of light Artillery yet I have not a single Carriage for them, so that my whole Train of Artillery consists of two Iron Field pieces, which General Nixon brought up with his Brigade.
I have indeed written to Springfield for the Cannon which was there, but the Answer I got was, that they were all ordered another Way. I have also written for a Variety of Articles to that place and to Boston, not that I expect any Thing will be sent me (but that I may stand justified) for I have never yet been able to get much of any Thing from thence—In this Situation, I have only to look up to your Excellency for Relief, and permit me to entreat you to send a Reinforcement of Troops and such a Supply of Artillery, Ammunition and every other Necessary (except provisions and powder) as an Army ought to have, if it can possibly be spared.
An Express has passed thro’ the Country from General Burgoyne to

General Howe—The latter will probably on Receipt thereof immediately move up Hudson’s River.
Inclose your Excellency Copy of the proceedings of a Council of General Officers held at Tyonderoga, Copy of which I beg you will transmit to Congress and be so good as to mention that I have not Time to do myself the Honor to write them. It contains the principles on which the Evacuation of that Fortress took place.
If the Enemy will permit us to pass unmolested three Days longer to Fort George, I shall be able to bring away all the Stores from thence and then draw off the few Troops we have there.
Yesterday, accompanied by the General Officers and Engineers I examined the Country, and found a very defensible Spot about four Miles below this, to which place we are this Day moving part of the Army and our Stores—I propose remaining here until Fort George is abandoned, and as much longer as the Enemy will permit me.
General Nixon with his Brigade, supported by about six hundred Militia is advanced to Fort Ann to fell Trees into Wood Creek, and into the Road from Fort Ann to this place. I have also stationed a Body of Militia, about five Miles on this Side of Fort George to cover the Retreat of the Garrison now at that place.
We are informed that part of the Enemy are still at Skenesborough, and that a Body is coming by the Way of Lake George—I hope it will not be very soon. Adieu my dear Sir and believe me unfeignedly and with great Respect—Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 14 July 1777
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Sr
Lebanon [Conn.] 14th July 1777

I have received your Letters, that of the 7th Inst. on the 10th That of the 2d with the P.S. on the 4th, the next day Thankfully acknowledge the Attention paid to mine and the Intelligence given for our direction.
The Evacuation of Ty— and the Northern Posts are Truly alarming—Altho’ before you receive the Intelligence I send you enclosed, you doubtless will have received more full and Authentic accts of this affair yet conclude it best to let you have Copies of the Letters I have received—they may be of some Use The accounts they contain are such as give us surprising Ideas of our dangers—Internal Enemies are always to be Considered the most dangerous and to be watched with the greatest Attention; I Cannot forbear expressing my fears of Such being concern’d in this Surprising Event Our utmost Exertions are certainly necessary at this time to keep up the Spirits of our People, & to stop the progress of the Enemy—The Lord reigns, Let us rejoyce with thankfullness before him for the mercies we have received and with hope of those we Stand in need of. Future Events are in the Safe hand of the Supreme director of all, Let us wait and patiently hope and trust in him for our Salvation—He Setts one thing over against another, that we may find nothing after him, Altho’ it be comparatively smal, yet the Acquisition of Majr Genl Prescot as a Prisoner, with his Aid de Comp and a Centinal at Rhode Island is of some consequence as it may serve to release Majr General Lee from his Captivity by way of exchange.
Majr Genl Spencer informs me of this, and that it is his design to send these Prisoners to my care, to keep them in Safety ’till your pleasure is known as it will be verry difficult to keep him here I think it will be best at least to send Genl Prescot forward under Strong Guard to you—even if he Should be sent back again, but possibly he may not be

here before the return of this express which [I] wish may be as speady as possible On the extraordinary Emergency from the Northward I Shall directly send to Springfield for the Thousand Armes you are kind enough to allow me to take on Loan—How it is with other States as to Armes, Sure I am the representation from this State in my letter is just—We have possibly Erred on the Safer hand of being righteous overmuch Please to direct Mr Bowdinot to write me concerning the Prisoners—Ours are in unhappy Circumstances with the Enemy please to give me every Information and direction needfull. I am with great Esteem & Regard Sr your most Obedient Humble Servt

Jonth; Trumbull


Title: General Orders, 15 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Clove [N.Y.] July 15th 1777
Chichester.Cumberland.Courland.

It was yesterday directed in General Orders, that neither officer nor soldier should pay a salute, or pull of the hat to the Commander in Chief, or other officer passing by; and the total disregard of the order, is a proof; how little pains officers take to acquaint either themselves, or their men, with the orders of the day—other orders issued the 4th Instant, respecting the march of the army, are also neglected, in instances which come directly under the observation of the Commander

in Chief, which cannot be presumed to arise from any other cause, than ignorance of those orders; for future therefore all officers are each day to make themselves acquainted with the orders of it—And with respect to the orders referred to of the 4th instant, The Commander in Chief directs, that the Brigadiers do, as soon as possible, call together the officers commanding Corps in their respective brigades, and read to them those orders; and the commanding officers of corps are in like manner required to assemble all the officers in their respective Corps, and read to them the same orders; and all who are not already provided are forthwith to furnish themselves with copies of them—And still more effectually to execute those orders, each Brigadier is to appoint a field officer to attend to the march of his brigade, and particularly of the waggons belonging to it, whose business it shall be, to ride backwards and forwards along the line, to see the march conducted with propriety and agreeebly to orders.
Advantage is to be taken of the present halt to get the horses shod and waggons repaired—No delay is to be made in this matter, as it is very uncertain how soon the army may move again—And for the same reason, all officers and soldiers are to keep near their quarters, and on no pretence to ramble about the country, without leave first obtained by officers from their Brigadiers, and by soldiers from their Colonels, or officers commanding corps.
All waggons are to join their respective brigades, and get in their proper order for marching; and when the army moves again, the officers and Waggon masters are to see that they are more equally loaded than they have been—And when any men fall sick on their march, they are not to be put into the heavy loaded baggage waggons, but left to be taken up by the empty waggons which follow in the rear for that end.
The commanding officers of corps are immediately to make returns to the Adjutant General of the cloathing most wanted in their respective corps: And as the quantity of cloathing to be distributed is not great, the Commander in Chief most earnestly desires that officers will make returns of no more than is indispensably necessary for their men.
The Commander in Chief expects that all officers will use their utmost exertions, to cause the orders heretofore given, to prevent the destruction of property; to be strictly observed, and consider them as binding at all times.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 15 July 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston July 15. 1777

This will be handed to your Excellency by Monr D’Avaux, late a Major in the French Cavalry, as he informs. He came to this place in the Freedom a Brig. of War, Capt. Clouston of this State, He has come to serve in our Army, and has desired a line from me to your Excellency.
By Express yesterday from our Army at the Nor[t]hward, we are informed, that a considerable number of Officers and Soldiers were lost in the Retreat, among the former, Colonels, Francis & Hale. I have the Honor to be very respectfully Your Excellency’s Most Hble Servt

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Hugh Hughes, 15 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hughes, Hugh

Sir
Clove [N.Y.] 15th July 1777.

Yours of Yesterday met me near this place this Morning. If you have not sent off the Stores intended for Genl Schuyler before this reaches

you, you may omit the powder, as he writes me that he has drawn down thirteen Tons which were in Fort George. Genl Putnam is rather scant of Ammunition at Peekskill, therefore the powder may remain there. If you have any Stores belonging to your department that are not absolutely necessary at Fishkills, Peekskill or any of the posts in that Neighbourhood, you had better send them to some of the Magazines a distance from the Water. Genl Mifflin desires, if you have any Camp Kettles to spare, that they may be sent to Genl Schuyler, he wrote for 500, but only 200 are going on just now. He also desires that you would send parties over the River and mend the Roads Eight or ten Miles from King’s Ferry towards this place and the same distance from New Windsor, as it is uncertain which way the Army will march supposing we should be obliged to cross the River. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 15 July 1777
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [Philadelphia] July 15th 1777

I have the Honour of your Letter of the 12th instant which I have communicated to the Board.
General Sullivan has written concerning an Hudson Burr condemned at Sourland by a Court Martial as a Spy but says your Excellcy would not ratify the Proceedings desiring that the Man might be sent to Philada where he is now under Confinement, that the Board might discharge him if they knew Nothing against him; but as they are not certified properly of the Proceedings of the Court Martial they cannot with Propriety take Notice of the Matter. Mean Time the Man is suffering in Prison & therefore I am to request that Your Excellency will be pleased to write them on the Subject that Burr may be discharged on Security being given for his good Behavior & the public be eased of the Care of him, as his Friends here who are numerous are constantly applying to see him in Prison & solliciting for his Release—His Connexions are among the Quakers & so far wrong, but he is not capable if even he intended it to do much Harm. I have the Honour to be Your Excellency’s very obedt Servt

Richard Peters Secy

I have the Honor of transmitting the enclosed Return of Tents furnished by the Quarter Master General for your Excellency’s Inspection with a Request from the Board that if you can spare any Tents you will order a Number to General Schuyler.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 15 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dear Sir
Clove [N.Y.] 15th July 1777.

I have just arrived with the Army at this place where I shall remain till I see what turn Genl Howe takes. Seventy Sail fell down to the Hook on Sunday, but I have not heard whether they have gone out. Genl Knox informs me that he has sent off two Tons of Powder Yesterday for you, and he says that there are about ten Tons in Fort Montgomery, which is much more than is necessary there, you may therefore draw part of that.
I imagine all the Cartridges that were ready made at Springfeild will be sent off to Genl Schuyler, You had therefore better set your people at Work to make up. The detatchment of Colo. Bigelow’s Regt that is coming on is to remain at Peekskill, those that belong to Nixon’s Brigade to follow as soon as they arrive. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 15 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dr Sir
Clove [N.Y.] July 15h 1777.

I last Night received your Favor of the 10th Inst. Amidst the unfortunate Reverse that has taken place in our affairs, I am happy to hear General St Clair and his Army are not in the Hands of the Enemy. I really feared they had become prisoners. The Evacuation of Tyconderoga

and Mount Independance is an Event of Chagrine & Surprize not apprehended, nor within the Compass of my reasoning. I know not upon what principle it was founded and I should suppose it still more difficult to reconcile, if the Garrison amounted to five thousand Men, in high Spirits—well supplied with provision and Ammunition and the Eastern Militia marching to their Succour, as you mention in your Letter of the 9th to the Council of Safety of New York. This Stroke is severe indeed and has distressed us much: But notwithstanding Things, at present, have a dark and gloomy Aspect, I hope a spirited Opposition will check the progress of General Burgoyne’s Arms, and that the Confidence derived from his Success will bring him into Measures, that will in their Consequences be favorable to us—We should never dispair. Our Situation before has been unpromising and has changed for the better, so, I trust, it will again—If new Difficulties arise, we must only put forth new Exertions and proportion our Efforts to the Exigency of the Times.
It is with pleasure I find you are so well provided with Ammunition. I confess, I was induced to believe, from your Letter of the 9th, that you were all but destitute of this necessary Article, which occasioned me to order immediate Supplies from other posts, where it is probable it will be equally wanted. As you are not unacquainted with our Resources & Military Supplies I could wish your Requisitions only to extend to Articles essential and absolutely wanted. A Redundancy of Stores is not only unnecessary, but supplying them is frequently the Means of disfurnishing other posts. At this Time the Ammunition sent from Peek’s Kill could be but illy spared.
As the Operations of this Army are uncertain depending much upon General Howe’s, which still remain to be known, I think it will be inexpedient that you should send down to New Windsor and Fish Kill—All the Vessels and Craft you may not have Occasion for at Albany to be in Readiness for transporting a part of our Force up the River, in Case the Situation of Affairs should require it & Circumstances will admit. I should suppose his Movement will be up the River to co-operate with Mr Burgoyne and with a View, if possible, of concentering their Forces. This Idea has led me to advise what I have respecting the Vessels, and more particularly as carrying our Troops by Water will not only greatly facilitate their Arrival, but fit them more for immediate Service, than marching by Land in Cases of Emergency.
I observe you mention the Evacuation of Fort George as a necessary Act. For my own part I cannot determine upon the propriety of such a Measure, being totally ignorant of its Strength and Situation and of the Grounds adjoining—But there are Gentlemen here, who seem to consider it extremely defensible and of great Importance—They say,

that a spirited, brave, judicious Officer, with two or three hundred good Men, aided by the armed Vessels you have built on the Lake, would retard General Burgoyne’s Passage across, for a considerable Time, if not render it impracticable and oblige him to take a much more circuitous & difficult Rout. As I have before observed, I cannot say one Thing or another upon the Subject, from my Unacquaintance with the place, and therefore I only mean to submit it to your Consideration hoping that whatever is best will be pursued in this and every other Instance. I am Dr Sir with great Esteem Your most obedt Servant

Go. Washington.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Samuel Blachley Webb, 15 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Webb, Samuel Blachley

Dear Sir,
Clove [N.Y.] July 15th 1777.

Your favour of yesterdays date is just come to hand. You have my thanks for your care of the Spirits and Cheese, which I could wish to have sent forward to me at this place, or wherever I may be. Colo. Trumbull went from hence to day, to Peekskill; if you could get it into his care he will, I am perswaded, put it into hands that will not suffer it to be stolen or adulterated on the way—but as his stay there will be very short I must request your attention to this matter if he should become of. I have also to thank you Sir, which I do very sincerely for the Map which will, if we should have occasion to Manœuvre about in the parts describd by it be very useful to me.
I was led to believe by Genl Parsons that the Connecticut Regiments would average abt 600 Men each yours having been put upon the same footing with the Eight of that State I was in hopes to have found stronger than you have mentioned. I am with sincerety Yr Obedt & Affecte Servt

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 16 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Clove [N.Y.] July 16th 1777.
Effingham.DanburyGrafton.

The General Court Martial of which Col. Chambers was President is dissolved.
A General Court martial is to sit at ten o’clock this forenoon, near Gen. Maxwell’s quarters, for the trial of all prisoners which shall be

brought before them; Col. Shreive is appointed president of this court.


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. David Forman, 16 July 1777 [letter not found]
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. David Forman, 16 July 1777. GW writes in his letter to Forman of 18 July that “I am favd with yours of the 16th instant by Express.”


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 16 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Camp near the Clove [N.Y.] 16th July 1777

I was yesterday Evening honored with yours of the 14th. I have heard nothing from the Northward since my last. I this day recd Advice from

Staten Island that on Sunday Seventy sail of the Enemy’s Ships fell down from the watering place to the Hook but whether they have since gone out to Sea, I have not heard. Till I have more certain information of the State of our Affairs to the Northward, and of Genl Howe’s real intentions, I have concluded to halt the Army at this place, from whence I can march either forward, or return, as circumstances may require. If Genl Nash should not have began his march before this reaches you, be pleased to order him to proceed as far as Trenton only, and there wait my further orders. In case he should have marched be pleased to dispatch an Express after him with orders to halt at Trenton.
I am pleased to hear that you have taken Colo. proctors Corps of Artillery into Continental Service; you will be kind enough to order them to join the Army immediately, for I expect the light Artillery in a few days from the Eastward and Artillery Men will be wanted to Man them.
I have no doubt but the Militia from the Western parts of New England will turn out to Genl Schuyler’s Assistance, as I hope those of this State and Jersey will to mine should they be wanted.
I shall be very happy if the Committee of Congress can arrange the Commissary’s department in such a manner, as will satisfy the Officers concerned in the Business, and at the same time serve to supply the Army with more regularity than has been done for some time past. I can assure you the Complaints have been many of late, and not without foundation. I have the Honor to be with great Respect Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 16 July 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston July 16, 1777

Yesterday afternoon a Committee from the Board of War of this State presented me the inclosed Resolve of the General Assembly & Estimate of Stores and provisions necessary for the secret Expedition to St Johns River, an Expedition some time since recommended by the Honble Congress, of which I doubt not your Excellency has been fully acquainted. The Committee desired that I would furnish them with the whole, or so many, as I could conveniently of the enumerated Articles, including Arms. I informed them that I could not do it without your Excellency’s knowledge, or direction; but I would by the first oppertunity lay the matter before you. I would request a signification of your Excellency’s pleasure as soon as it is agreeable. I shall direct my conduct strictly conformable thereto.
Every peice of Intelligence which we receive from the Northern Army is fraught with Accounts more & more disagreeable of the loss of almost every species of Stores; but the most agrevated circumstance of all is, that many Soldiers are coming home pretending that they were far pursued by the Enemy, lost their Arms Cloaths &c. I am endeavouring to apprehend them, and have appointed a Special General Court Martial for their Tryal. I hope that some severe punishment here, and sending a number of them back in Irons to their respective Regiments will put a stop to a practice, both dishonorable and dangerous to the Army.

Yesterday two or three of the Enemy’s Cruizers were so near in the Bay as to be seen from the Town—A valuable prize is sent into Newbury port, taken by Capt. Lee, Brother to Colo. Lee; The prize has sundry articles of Cloathing on board, both Linen and woollen together with Liquors, provisions &c., Another prize Ship is sent into Dartmouth having 530. Hogsheds of Sugar on Board, She mounted 20 Guns. It is said that 13 of our Armed Vessels were cruizing for 100. & odd Sail of Sugar Ships who were under Convoy of three British Frigates.
It is reported that the Fox Frigate is Retaken by a 64 Gun Ship, I wish it may not be true. I have this Moment received the Honor of Yours of the 4th Inst. I have the Honor to be very respectfully Your Excellencys Obedient Servant

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to General William Howe, 16 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, William

Sir
New Jersey, July the 16: 1777

The fortune of war having thrown Major General Prescot into our hands, I beg leave to propose his exchange for that of Major General Lee. This proposition being agreeable to the Letter and Spirit of the Agreement subsisting between us, will I hope have your approbation. I am the more induced to expect it, as it will not only remove One ground of Controversy between us; but in its consequences effect the Exchange of Lt Colo. Campbell & the Hessian Field Officers for a like number of Ours of equal rank in your possession.

I shall be obliged by your Answer upon the Subject; assuring you that Major Genl Prescot shall be sent in, if the proposed exchange is acceded to, either on the previous releasement of Genl Lee, or your promise that the same shall immediately take place on Genl Prescots return. I have the honor &c.

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Robert R. Livingston, 16 July 1777
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Kingston [N.Y.] 16th July 1777.

I am sorrey for the occasion which induces me to renew a correspondence, which my fear of trespassing upon your Excellencys time led me to forego, notwithstanding the pleasure it afforded me. I shall now only intrude so far upon your Leisure as to submit a single Idea to your Excellencys consideration, which may possibly be of use in our present critical situation.
I greatly fear that our Northern army will be but a weak barrier against the enemy, if they should think it proper to follow their blow, to which they may be induced by that very weakness. The eastern Counties of this State are far from being so well affected as I could wish, & I am not without some apprehentions of the enemies receiving assistance from that quarter. Our Neighbour States do not discover the forwardness which the occasion requires, & two regiments have even marched off on this important moment—A body of Troops posted in our Northeastern Counties would I humbly conceive overawe the disaffected, & greatly tend to prevent the enemy from following their blow, since their retreat would be endangered in case of any accident—At your Excellencys request (transmitted to the several Brigadier’s Genl in the Western parts of ⟨the⟩ States of New Hampshire, & Masachusets bay) it is probable that such a force may be collected, especially as it will greatly contribute to their own security & prevent incurtions into their States—An Officer of some rank, taking the command of this militia would give it an appearance of consequence upon which I rely more than on anything they will affect when collected—I write in haste, on the only sheet of paper that I can get, so that your Excellency

will have the goodness to pardon my incorrectness. I Am Sir with the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most Obt Hum: Servant

Robt R. Livingston


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 16 July 1777
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Peeks Kill [N.Y.] July 16th 1777

I am informed General Prescott who was made Prisoner last Week, is order’d to Windham; I think it my Duty to express my Fears respecting that Matter, I am perfectly acquainted with the People there & am fully persuaded tis in his Power to effect his Escape at any Time he pleases, unless a Guard is sent there under the Care of a vigilant Officer to Secure him. The Credulity of Friends to their Country is such that they are easily persuaded to believe any Thing; & the disaffected are fully possesd of Means to carry him safely to Long Island without Discovery: As I apprehend tis of great Importance to secure this Prisoner I tho’t it my Duty to suggest my Fears On the Subject to your Excellency’s Consideration. I am yr Excellency’s Obedt hl. Servt

Saml H. Parsons


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 16 July 1777
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

 War Office, Philadelphia, 16 July 1777. “The Bearer Mr Dupré is a very ingenious Armourer & was appointed by the State of North Carolina in that Capacity to the North Carolina Brigade & has employed several Assistants under him, who are also attached to the Brigade. But as there is no Continental Establishment for Persons in his way, the Board have given it in direction to me, to mention the matter to your Excellency, & request you would give Orders for Mr Duprés being employed as Superintendant of the Armoury—attending the Camp, or in any other manner you may think proper, as his Abilities will render him exceedingly useful if they are turned into the proper Channels—the mode of doing which, is left to your Excellencys Discretion.”


Title: To George Washington from John Ruddock, 16 July 1777
From: Ruddock, John
To: Washington, George

May it Please your Excellency
Fish Kill [N.Y.] July 16th 1777

In Obedience to your Excellencys order I’ve sent the Hoble Genl Schuylar at Albany Ninty Boxes of Musket Ball Containing Nine Thousand Four Hundred & thirty weight, Suitable for French Arms Muskets & Militia, With thirty Four Reams of Musket Cartridge Paper. Colo: Hughes Let me Know that hed Receivd Counter Orders from your Excellency that the powder must not that there was a Sufficiency Gone from some other Quarter, In Consequence of the Above Counter Orders the powder was Returnd. I am with the Greatest Esteem Your Excellencys Obdt Servte

John Ruddock D.C.M.S.


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 16 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Clove [N.Y.] 16th July 1777 9 O’Clock P.M.

I imagine you have, in consequence of former orders, crossed the North River; but if it should not be totally effected when this reaches you, I beg it may be done as soon as possible, for from some advices in the Course of this day, it seems as if the Enemy were moving their Shipping

from the watering place up towards New York, some have already gone up as far as Dob’s Ferry.
From my present opinion of Matters, the posts that you should occupy, in case of the Enemy’s approach, should be those in the Rear of Peekskill, but as I am in a manner a Stranger to the Ground, I must refer you to the Advice of Genl Putnam & Govr Clinton, both of whom, the latter in particular, are well acquainted with the most advantagious passes. I shall remain here with the main Body of the Army till I see with more certainty whether Genl Howe does or does not really intend to move up the River. I am &c.


Title: General Orders, 17 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Clove [N.Y.] July 17th 1777.
Lee.Prescot. Barton.

Some disputes having arisen between the Colonels Humpton and Johnson respecting seniority, the General Officers are to meet at some place to be appointed by Major Genl Greene, at five o’clock this afternoon, and after hearing the pretensions of both those officers, and enquiring minutely into the matter, to report the case, with their opinion thereon to the Commander in Chief.
The frequent discharging of pieces, in order to clean and keep them in order, occasions so great a waste of ammunition, that the General orders, in very pointed and positive terms, that no musket shall be

loaded with Cartridge until we are close to the enemy, and there is a moral certainty of engaging them—The Quarter Mr of each regiment is to draw a small quantity of powder, ball and wadding to furnish the guards from his regiment, who are to load with loose powder and running ball, when they mount guard: and this the officer commanding such guards are invariably to have drawn, and returned to their respective regimental Quarter Masters, before their dismission from the parade, after being relieved. A practice of this kind strictly adhered to (and it is positively enjoined) will not only be a great saving of ammunition, but the means of preserving the arms, as nothing is more hurtful to the barrel, than to lay long laded, especially with wet powder, or in damp weather.
One hundred and eighty tents are arrived in camp; such as are destitute may now be supplied therewith: But previous to the delivery of them, returns must be made to the Quarter Master General from each brigade of the number of men in each Corps belonging to the brigade, and of the tents now in their possession respectively.
The Adjutant General, in issuing orders for the delivery of cloaths, is to compare the returns made by the commanding officers of corps, of their wants, with the Cloathier’s accounts; so far as he can come at them, at this time and place; and see, that to the utmost of his power, equal justice be done in the distribution of them.
After Orders.
The Quarter Master General is to have the road thro’ the Clove, to New-Windsor, well reconnoitred; and all proper places for halting and encamping at, with the distances from hence, noted; and to make report thereof, as soon as possible, to the Commander in Chief—He is to do the like on the road to King’s-ferry.
Doctor Cochran is to inspect into the state and condition of the sick; and will give such orders respecting them, as shall appear proper.
Each brigade is to furnish a good blacksmith, to parade to morrow at twelve o’clock, at noon, before Lord Stirling’s quarters, at Suffern’s tavern.
The Quarter Masters of those regiments for which cloathing returns have been made, are to apply to the Deputy Cloathier General to morrow, at Baldwin’s mills, about a mile from Head Quarters, on the way to Pompton.


Title: To George Washington from William Gordon, 17 July 1777
From: Gordon, William
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
Jamaica Plain [Mass.] July 17. 1777

Your fortitude has been put to a fresh trial, through the stupid neglect of the New England States, of the Bay particularly. I have been weeping inwardly for you & the common cause, ever since we have had the news confirmed of the Northern Keys being lost. Such blundering mismanagement as our general Court has been guilty of, puts me almost out of patience. The fault is chargeable chiefly if not wholly, upon the House of Representatives. Alas for us, they are not equal to the great affairs of war, & yet are too conceited to entrust the proper powers with a suitable executive. The Council a long while back, & in time urged them again & again by messages to provide for the security of Ty., but that was foolishly omitted that they might attend to a new constitution. The Congress had recommended to all the States to have returns of the men inlisted by the middle of May: so far from attending to it, the house gave no order for it till the week before last & I am pritty certain adjourn’d without having had any return made. Men inlisted for the three years instead of being sent forward early, were left lounging about at home, a nuisance to the neighbourhood. I was at Wooburn yesterday, fifteen miles distance, one of the inhabitants informed me, that the company they raised, of about forty, very soon in the year, were not all gone till within about ten days. Many of our officers

have behaved shamefully in these matters, & ought to be drummed out of the army; I don’t know any thing they are good for, but to keep off the bullets from killing better men. Instead of hastening to their posts in the field, they have been loitering at home: instead of taking good care who they enlisted, they have taken up with any thing that would tell for a man, with any riffraff that has offered to ease them of their bounty, without principle or attachment, no ways tied to the Continent, & hundreds of them, I suppose, now that they are wanted, are to be found no where but upon the muster-roll. If your Excellency has [not] got over the paroxysm of your resentment at the conduct of the New Englanders, in suffering matters to get into such a train as may disconcert your measures, & lay you under great difficulties for the rest of the campaign, you will be ready to smile at the thought of my being so out of humour: but if Friend Gates was present, I should be ready to say to him as upon a former occasion, “they are enough to make a person angry, but not enough to make him swear” & I would be cautious not to sin in my anger. But I am violently displeased. I viewed the prospect of our public affairs lately with much pleasure. All things seemed to be in a fine way. We could scarce have wished them better. Now the Indians will be wavering or worse, the numerous parties of tories, in the York State particularly, be assiduous in assisting the enemy, & our frontiers be plundered, the last I can say but little against, we deserve it, possibly the people may be roused to exert themselves mightily, now that danger stares them in the face, & thus the whole through infinite wisdom & a kind providence be over-ruled for our good. I have begun to preach up the danger we are in, should the Howites be designed for this or the neighbouring state, & intend dwelling upon the subject, & to confirm persons in the notion of my being really of this judgment by preparing for my own removal. It can do no hurt, & may have a good effect by tending to awaken the stupid, for we still abound with lethargic souls. I give them to expect but little assistance from any force your Excellency can send them, for I tell them, they have made it necessary for you to keep the greater force your way to check the enemy & to over-awe Indians & Tories.
I recd your obliging letter of June the 29th yesterday sennight. On the friday sat out with Mrs Gordon designing to reach Falmouth & contemplate its ruins: but while at Newbury Port where I tarried on the Lords day, hearing that the Northern forts were evacuated, & that there was great reason to suppose that the Howites were bound for New England, & considering that Newport was at no great distance, I laid aside pleasuring, turned my horses head homeward, & got back the last night; propose applying myself to packing up, & getting in readiness for a sudden march; for I do not intend being caught as was Lee, by a

light-horse manoevre. Should we be drove off the ground, after having taken care of my better half, I shall probably steer my course to the camp, where if I find there is no vacant post in which I can serve the publick, all being occupied by men better qualified for them, I will visit my military friends, & after wishing them my blessing will set out on a ramble after truth, in hopes of finding & forming an intimacy with her, that so she may accompany me all through the progress of my intended history, which will make it more acceptable to future generations, & the worth of few of the present, than if it was beautified with all the ornaments of language. An able artist may work & polish up a piece of steel, so as that it shall please & captivate the eye more than solid gold, but the rust of time will not destroy the latter, which will be only tarnished while the other perishes: & the tarnish may be easily taken off without injuring the work. Truth is the only beauty that will stand while the world lasteth: all others bloom in their particular seasons, & then gradually decay & are forgotten.
While at Newbury Port, learning that there was a vessel bound for Bilboa that only waited for a wind to carry her over the bar, wrote to Dr Franklin acquainting him with the news so far as we had heard it, but mentioned that we had so many contradictory accounts that I was in hopes that the places were not gone. Inserted Prescotts being taken, the Howites having left the Jerseys & embarked, & the apprehension of their being bound this way, Manly’s having taken the Fox Frigate, & a ship from Grenock, fourteen guns & about forty men, being sent in to Newbury port on the Lords day last by Capt. Lee, having fish & salt, taken in at Newfoundland for a number of dry goods there disposed of, & a remaining quantity of dry goods, among other articles a thousand ready made shirts. When I got to Exeter yesterday, & had seen a copy of Genl Sinclairs letter to Col. Mede at Otter Creek, I called upon Col. Bartlet who was or had been one of the Hampshire delegates, personally known to Dr Franklin, & desired him to write the state of affairs to the Dr & forward it immediately to Newbury as the vessel would not sail for Bilboa that day. I considered that it might be of consequence for the Dr to have the earliest intelligence, & could not possibly be hurtful.
The ground is loaded with plenty: the season one of the busiest: should the enemy be permitted to visit us, & not receive an early check, like that on April 19th or June 17th, we shall suffer most amazingly, but not more than we have deserved, for the love of money, the root of all evil, has rooted out the love of liberty—at least the thoughts—from almost every heart, & each is seeking his own things instead of those of the Continent. Patriots are excessively scarce, however I have the happiness of knowing that the army is headed by one: I wish he had a numerous posterity of them to leave behind him; however many of the

most flourishing families will be extinct, while his memory will flourish; & may he be in everlasting remembrance!
The papers will have informed you of my having preached an anniversary sermon July 4th. ’Tis now in the press, propose sending one to every general in the Continental service, could be glad if Mr Pickering had leisure & would send me their several names & how to send to them. Pray my respects to him, & other friends. Mrs Gordon joins in affectionate regards to Your Excellency & Lady with your sincere friend & very humble servant

William Gordon


Title: To George Washington from John Langdon, 17 July 1777
From: Langdon, John
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Portsmouth [N.H.] July 17th 1777.

By the Express, Major Bass, who goes on to Philadelphia, I’ve done myself the Honor Just to inform your Excellency of the Arrival of the

Packett called the Mere Bobie from Nantes in a Passage of Forty two Days, the dispatches I’ve sent ⅌ Express which I beleive are of great Consequence.
I’ve but Just seen the Capt. a few minutes by what I can learn in General is, that there is by far the greatest Prospect at present of a Rupture in Europe than there has been since the dispute with Brittain. I am—with every mark of Respect—Your Excellency’s Most Obt Servant

John Langdon


Title: From George Washington to Brig. Gen. Samuel Holden Parsons, 17 July 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Parsons, Samuel Holden

Letter not found: to Brig. Gen. Samuel Holden Parsons, 17 July 1777. Parsons’s letter to GW of 16 July is docketed in part: “Answd 17th 777.”


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 17 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dear sir:
Camp near the Clove [N.Y.] July 17th 1777

Genl Parsons having inform’d me that many Gentlemen are Candidates for the two Regts lately commanded by Genl Huntington & Colo. Douglass I have to request that you will call a Board of General Officers as soon as may be to hear the pretensions of each & enquire into the particulars of their several Claims, which, when regularly taken you will transmit to me with the Opinion of the Board thereon, that I may be able to determine which of them have a right to succeed, & fill up the Vacancies accordingly.
Genl Sullivan has cross’d at New Windsor with his Division & will Consult with you upon the proper place or passes he is to occupy—my wish is, that in conjunction with your general Officers you may make yourself as well acquainted with the Country about you as you can particularly with the passes which you will take care to have guarded in such a manner, that the greatest part of your Force may be brought to act upon the shortest Notice & be capable of Making the most united & Vigorous Opposition to an Attack, from any Quarter. I am &c.

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 17 July 1777
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear General,
Peekskill [N.Y.] 17 July ’77.

There is nothing new here since your last—only that one ship, two gallies and an armed sloop came up the river yesterday as far as Haverstraw Bay and came to an anchor, and now lie there. We have near Albany sloops enough lying at Robinsons to transport 5000 troops if they should be wanted—by deserters and others there is not more than 1800 men at and about Kingbridge—and now I would just suggest it to your wise consideration, whether a direction down there would not greatly disconcert their plan and call their attention this way, I think something of this kind would greatly encourage and spirit our troops, and may be saving us a long march; but I submit it to your better judgment, and subscribe myself Yr most obedt

Israel Putnam.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 17 July 1777
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Peeks Kills [N.Y.] July 17th 1777

Inclosed is a Copy of the Intelligence brot by one Ebr Atwood who appears to be a very honest intelligble fellow that escaped from the Enemy last monday Night which I thot proper to Communicate to your Excellency immediately—being the best account of the Enemys movements & the latest I have Recd sd Atwood was Mate the Sloop Dove. with the highest esteem & respect am your Excellencys Obedt humbl. Servant

Israel Putnam


Title: To George Washington from Major General Arthur St. Clair, 17 July 1777
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fort Edward [N.Y.] July 17th 1777

Your Excellencys Letters of the 12th & 13th instt to General Schuyler have been by him communicated to me. Considering that my Letter to him of the 5th the day before I left Tyconderoga was not delivered, and one I wrote to him whilst on the March to this Place has miscarried, and that Your Excellency has had no Intimation of the Motions and Destination of our Army, I do not wonder that you should have some Doubts about the Propriety of my Conduct, tho’ it gives me a very painful Sensation to know myself, but for a Moment, the Subject of a Doubt with You; I have however the strongest Hopes, when Your Excellency comes to be fully informed of our Situation and Force, You will not condemn me: and although I am not solicitious about the Opinion of the World, tho’ very far from disregarding it, I wish to hold a Character with Your Excellency something more than merely negative.
Returns of the Strength of my Garrison were regularly transmitted to General Schuyler, and by him no Doubt to You. By them Your Excellency will see that our Force consisted of little more than two Thousand Effectives. With these I had Lines and Redoubts of more than a League in Extent to defend; judge how poorly they could have been defended by these Numbers, had they been perfected, Which they were very far from being: In fact they were not defensible at all, upon the Tyconderoga Side, unless the Ennemy would have been so complaisant as to attack us in Front of the old French Lines, and take no Notice of the Flanks of them, which were both open. We had last Year nine Thousand Men at these Posts, and they were found barely sufficient for the Defence of the Works. The System was a little altered this Season but not so as make a smaller Number answer, but to make a greater Number necessary. The Ennemy had nearly invested us nothing being wanting to compleat it but their occupying a narrow Neck of Land betwixt the East Creek and the Lake, on the Mount Independence Side—This I had Information would certainly take Place in the

Course of the next twenty four Hours, and had been left open so long only with a View to intercept any Cattle that we might bring in from the Country and then our Communication would have been effectually cut off—We could have received neither Supplys of Provision, nor Reinforcements, for, depend upon it, Sir, the Militia of this Country cannot yet be brought on to raise a Siege. But it may be asked why I had not called in the Militia to assist in the Defence of the Posts—for this plain Reason, I had not Provision for them, and very little Prospect of an effectual Supply. When I first had Notice of the Approach of the Ennemy there was no more than ten Days Provision in Store for the Troops then upon the Ground, to have called in the Militia in that Situation would have been certain Ruin. So soon as a Supply arrived, although but a scanty One I did call for them, and about nine Hundred joined me the Day before the Resolution to evacuate the Posts was taken: They had come out in such a Hurry, and almost entirely without Cloaths, they did not propose to remain but a very few Days at the utmost. The Term of Leonards & Wells’s Regiments, which made part of the Garrison, expired also in two Days, and the Commanding Officers had accquainted me that they could not prevail upon the Men to remain beyond the Time they were engaged for. Your Excellency knows, but too well, the Disposition of these People on such Occasions! The Batteries of the Ennemy were ready to open in three different Quarters, and our whole Camp on the Tyconderoga Side was exposed to the Fire of each; and as soon as they did open; every Man I had must have been constantly on Duty, as from our Weakness, of which the Enemy could not be ignorant, I had Reason every Moment to expect an Assault; Judge Sir how long we could have sustained it, or whether our Resistance must not have been a very feeble one indeed, especially when you take into the Account that a great Number were mere Boys, and that not more than a tenth Part were funished with Bayonets. Revolving these Circumstances in my Mind I was at no loss to determine what Part I ought to take, but I thought it prudent to take the Sense of the other General Officers: A Copy of the Council has been transmitted to your Excellency by General Schuyler: They were unanimously of Opinion that the Posts ought to be evacuated immediately, wisely, in my judgment, considering that a Retreat, even with the loss of our Cannon and Stores, if it could be effected would be of infinitely greater Service to the Country, and bring less Disgrace upon our Arms, than an Army (although a small One) taken Prisoners with their Cannon and Stores. I was fully in Sentiment with them, and believe I should have ordered the Retreat if they had been of a contrary way of thinking. But here again it may be asked why, when I found myself in the Situation I have described, I did not retreat sooner when every

thing might have been saved—I have only to answer that until the Ennemy sate down before the Place I believed the small Garrison I had to be sufficient—The Intelligence that Congress had received that no serious Attempt in that Quarter was intended, as it gained Credit with them I never doubted, and was unwilling to be the occasion of drawing off any Part of your Army, as your Operations might thereby be rendered less vigorous; and I knew too that you could very ill spare them; besides until the Case become so urgent that I had no alternative but the Evacuation of my Posts or the Loss of the Army, it did not lay with me to dertermine upon.
The Retreat was begun a little before Day on the Sixth instt, unperceived by the Ennemy, after having embarked as much of the Stores and Provision, and as many of the Cannon as was possible in the Course of one very short Night, and our March would probably have been unperceived for some Time, if General Fermoys House had not been set on Fire—how that happened I know not—I had previously given Orders against burning any of the Buildings that our March might be the longer concealed—but it served to the Ennemy as the Signal of our leaving the Place, and in consequence they were upon the Mount before our Rear was clear of it, and fired a few Times upon it, but without Effect. Colonell Long with his Regiment and a Detachment from the other Regiments, and the Invalids with the Hospital were sent to Skeensborough, by Water, whilst I took the Road to the same Place through Castleton with the Body of the Army. As the Ennemy were at least four Times my Numbers I had nothing for it but a forced March and I pressed it as much as possible and reached Castleton that Night, thirty Miles from Tyconderoga, having on our Way fallen in with and dispersed a Party of the Ennemy from whom we took twenty Head of Cattle, three British Prisoners, and five Canadiens. The Rear Guard under Colonell Warner, which with those that had failed upon the March amounted to a Thousand Men, imprudently halted six Miles short of Castleton, and wasted so much Time in the Morning that they were overtaken and surprised by a strong Detachment from Tyconderoga, which had been sent up the east Bay which runs into the Country very near the Place where he was—They sustained the Attack with great Bravery, but were finally obliged to give way with the loss of about fifty killed and wounded—On the first of the firing I sent orders to two Regiments of Militia who had left me the Night before and were lodged within two Miles of Colonel Warners Post to move up to his Assistance, which had they done that Party would have been cut off; but instead of that they made all possible haste to rejoin me, and at the same Instant I received the Account of the Ennemys being in possession of Skeensborough, and having taken and destroyed every thing that had been sent there, I was then constrained to change my Route, both that I

might avoid the being put between two Fires, and that I might be able to bring off Colonell Warner, I therefore sent him Orders to retire to Rutland where he would find me to cover him—a considerable Part of his Detachment joined me at that Place, and he with about Ninety more two Days afterwards at Manchester: a great Many are still missing, tho’ few I believe have fallen into the Ennemys Hands, as they did not pursue Colonell Warner but a very small Distance, and from all Accounts suffered much in the Action—The ninth Regiment followed Colonell Long towards Fort Ann, and were almost entirely cut off—I have dispatched Officers to Bennington and Number Four to pick up the Straglers who I suppose have taken these Routs to New England and on the twelfth instant I joined General Schuyler at this Place after a very fatiguing March.
Thus Sir I have laid before without the least Reserve every Thing I can recollect respecting Tyconderoga, and the Retreat from thence—happy shall I be if my Conduct therein meets with your Approbation and I can with the strictest Truth affirm I was actuated by no Motives but what sprung from a sincere Regard for the public Welfare. I have the Honour to be Your Excellencys Most Obedient and very Humble Servant

Ar. St Clair


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 17 July 1777
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Fort Edward [N.Y.] July 17h 1777.

Your Excellency’s Favors of the 12th & 13th Instant I had the Honor to receive Yesterday.
It is very true that we have a great plenty of Horses in this part of the Country, but as they are always drove two a Breast and none with such Collars as are generally used in the Artillery, I feared that it would be difficult to get them to draw, and I have found it so much so with the two pieces which General Nixon has with him, that I have ordered the Carriages which are now making for the Cannon I have here to be constructed so as to be drawn with Horses a Breast of each other.
Major Stevens is safe, but so ill at Albany, that I fear he will be of little Service this Campaign.
We have chosen two advantageous Spots of Ground about four Miles below this, where the Troops that came from Tyonderoga and part of the Militia have began to make some Works, but I do not propose to

move down with what Troops I have here until I can procure more Axes and Intrenching Tools, which are collecting in the Country.
The D. Adjutant General has not, as yet been able to procure a Return of the Troops, but expects that he will be able to deliver it to me by to Morrow—Part of the Enemy’s Force is at Skenesborough—A Body of between one & two thousand at Castleton and another returned to Tyonderoga in order to come by that Rout across Lake George—They have an advanced post at a Block House near Fort Ann and their Indian Scouts are continually lurking about our advanced posts—The Day before Yesterday they made prisoners of two Waggoners near Fort George.
We have brought away every Thing we had at Fort George and Yesterday Colonel Van Dyke, agreeable to his Orders, quitted the post, after seeing every part of it in Flames—Strengthened with that Garrison, who are in good Health, and if the Militia who are here or an equal Number can be prevailed on to stay and the Enemy give me a few Days more, which I think they will be obliged to do, I shall not be apprehensive that they will be able to force the posts, I am about to occupy.
So much of Toryism prevails amongst the people in what are commonly called the New Hampshire Grants and amongst those that reside in the Townships bordering on them, that I should not be much surprized if General Burgoyne should attempt to march as far as Bennington, in order to procure Cattle & Carriages, for I cannot, as yet, learn that many have been brought away, altho’ I gave the necessary Orders immediately on being informed of the Retreat from Tyonderoga—I have had part of Wood Creek filled with Trees and the Roads between this and Fort Ann broken up & rendered impassable, unless much Labour is bestowed on them.
The Cattle beyond this are all brought and bringing away, and I shall not leave any Forage for the Enemy’s Cattle to subsist upon.
Inclose your Excellency, Copy of a publication of General Burgoyne’s, with Copy of one of mine—I have ordered every person that has or may take a protection from the Enemy, and that can be taken, to be secured and sent to Goal.
Part of the Militia from the Massachusetts and all those from New Hampshire I have ordered to join Colonel Warner, who is at Manchester and who has my Orders to advance as near the Enemy as he can, with the small Force he has, the better to bring off the Cattle & Carriages near them. I am &c.

P. Schuyler


Title: From George Washington to Major General Joseph Spencer, 17 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Spencer, Joseph

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Camp at Clove [N.Y.] July 17th 1777

I have the pleasure of your favour of the 11th conveying the agreeable intelligence of the capture of General Prescott and his Aid De Camp. This is a very happy event and will be attended with many very good effects. I shall immediately make a proposition for an exchange between him and General Lee, which if it succeeds will retrieve the latter from a disagreeable confinement, and will probably bring about the releasement of our officers in general, at least so far as the proportion in our respective possessions will extend; and if it fails, it will still answer a valuable end by showing General Howe’s conduct and intentions in a point of view that will operate well for us, both in the minds of the public, and in those of his and our officers who are prisoners.
The conduct of Col: Barton in particular and the officers and men of his party in general cannot be too highly applauded. This is among the finest partizan exploits that have taken place in the course of the war on either side. It discovers so intrepid and enterprising a spirit as does the greatest honor to those who undertook and effected it. I am with due regard Sir Yr Most Obedt servt.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel William Thompson, 17 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Thompson, William

Dr Sir
Camp at the Clove [N.Y.] July 17: 1777.

A few days ago Your favor of the 5th of October last with its Inclosures was handed me by Major Scull. The delay, which has intervened between the date and delivery, owing to the neglect or forgetfulness of the person to whom it was first given, has rendered the Adjustment and settlement of your Claim, much more difficult than it Otherwise would or of right should be. The Officers who returned from Canada, immediately upon their Arrival at Head Quarters, made out Abstracts for their pay and obtained Warrants for the same. Whether any Stoppages were made on your account is a matter that I do not recollect—nor

am I able to give you the satisfaction I could wish upon the Head. I am inclined to think, they were not from what the pay Master Genl says, an Extract of whose Letter upon the Subject to Mr Harrison you have inclosed, to which I refer you. Things being thus circumstanced, and the Advances in Canada having been for the necessary releif and subsistence of the prisoners, I have no doubt, but Congress upon a proper representation will take the Matter up and pay your demand. If Stoppages have been already made for it, which will appear on Examination of the Accts in the Commissioners hands, the States will not be injured—If not, their reimbursing you and waiting till the Money can be refunded by the Officers & persons chargeable, will be perhaps Nothing more than an Equitable & reasonable Indulgence.
Before the receipt of this you will probably have heard of the Captivity of Major Genl Prescot & one of his Aids—I congratulate you upon the Event, and wish Fortune would throw into our hands some Other Genl Officer by which your Exchange might be effected. I am Sir with due esteem Yr Most Obedt sert

G.W.

P.S. I have returned the Officers Notes & Accounts against them, which you transmitted.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 17 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

Sir
Head Quarters at the Clove [N.Y.] 17th July 1777

I have the Honor of yours of the 14th with its enclosures. I had some time before received the account of the evacuation of Ticonderoga, but upon what Ground, or for what reasons, this sudden resolution was taken, I have not yet learnt—I have not heard from General Schuyler since the 10th—He was then at Fort Edward, and expected that General St Clair who was at Bedford with the Troops that he brought off, would join him in a few days. I am in hopes by my not hearing from General Schuyler since the 10th that General Burgoyne has not followed his success with much rapidity. I have sent up such a reinforcement of men and Artillery, as I could spare, and I am not without hopes, that when the Army in that Quarter collects again, and have taken breath after their late confusion, that they, with the assistance of the Militia, will be able to check Burgoyne in a Country which, I am informed, is very strong by nature.

The capture of General Prescott was a bold enterprize, and will give us an opportunity of making a demand of the releasement of General Lee, in such a manner, that I think General Howe cannot with honor refuse to comply—Untill I know General Howe’s determination upon this matter, I would not have General Prescott sent forward. I would have him Genteely accommodated, but strongly guarded—I would not admit him to parole, as General Howe has not thought proper to grant General Lee that indulgence. I have just received a letter from General Parsons, in which he informs me, that he understands General Prescott is to be sent to Windham, which he says is, by no means, a place of Safety, as it would be easy for him to effect an escape to Long Island, by means of the disaffected. I therefore beg he may be removed further from the Sound, and into some place where the People are generally well affected—A vigilant officer should be sent with him, whose constant care he should remain under; for by shifting of guards, it is more than probable, that some inattentive person might give him an opportunity of making his escape.
I am in hopes, if General Lees exchange is acceded to, that a General exchange of prisoners may be brought about, as the former treatment of that Gentleman was one principal Bar to its being carried into execution before. I have the Honor to be with respect & regard Sir Your most obedient Servant

G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Samuel Blachley Webb, 17 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Webb, Samuel Blachley

Dr Sir
Camp at the Clove [N.Y.] July 17th 1777.

I have been favoured with Yours of the 16th and am much obliged by your care and attention in forwarding the Spirits & Wine.
I am happy to hear you entertain hopes of recruiting your Regiment. It is a desirable Object and I shall be well pleased, as I am persuaded you will, when it is effected.
You will make out an Exact List of your Officers and the dates of their Appointments and transmit it to me, after which, Commissions shall be made out & sent. Be particular as to the Times of their Appointment,

that the Commissions may be filled up as they should—Otherwise there will be confusion & Complaints. I am Dr Sir Yr Aff: Hbl. servt

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 18 July 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Clove [N.Y.] July 18th 1777.
Germany.France.Spain.

The Commander in Chief is pleased to approve the following sentences of a General Court Martial, held the 16th Instant, whereof Col. Shreve was president, and orders that there be no delay in putting them in execution.
John Van Dyck of the 2nd New Jersey regt charged with “desertion, and stealing three hundred dollars”—found guilty, and sentenced to receive fifty lashes on his bare back.
James McCallah in Capt: Lane’s Company in the 2nd New-Jersey regt charged with “desertion”—found guilty, and sentenced to receive fifty lashes on his bare back.
Joshua Hunter of the 1st Virginia regt charged with “Desertion”—found guilty, and sentenced to receive fifty lashes on his bare back.
Michael Flemming, John Davidson and John Borgenhoff, all of the 9th Pennsylvania regt—charged with “Desertion”—found guilty, and sentenced each of them to receive fifty lashes on their bare backs.
Levi Springer of the 4th North Carolina regiment in Captain Neilson’s Company, charged with “Desertion from the 4th North Carolina regiment, and inlisting with Capt: Symes of the 10th Virginia regiment”—found guilty; and sentenced to receive fifty lashes on his bare back; to serve out his time with Capt: Neilson, & the bounty he received from Capt: Symes to be stopped out of his pay by Capt: Neilson, and paid to Capt: Symes.
Robert Story of the 11th Pennsylv: regt charged with “Desertion from Capt. Dean’s Company in the 11th Penn. regt, and inlisting into Capt: McKinley’s Company of the 12th Pennsylv: regiment”—The Court are of opinion he is intitled to the benefit of the Commander in Chief’s pardon (proclaimed at Middlebrook June 10th) They are also of opinion the prisoner belongs to the 11th Pennsylvania regiment—

that the bounty he received from Capt. McKinley of the 12th Pennsylv. regt shall be stopped out of his pay, and paid to Capt. McKinley.
Daniel Ma’Curdy of the 3rd New Jersey regt charged with “Desertion”—found guilty and sentenced to receive thirty lashes on his bare back.
John McVay of the 1st Virginia regiment charged with “Desertion”—found guilty, and sentenced to receive fifty lashes on his bare back.