Title: To George Washington from Charles, marquis de La Rouërie Armand Tuffin, 4 February 1781
From: Armand Tuffin, Charles, marquis de La Rouërie
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             4th february 1781

                        the Situation in which I do find my self in this Country is So different from that of all others the french
                            officers who Have Come to Serve Here that it Does become necessary for me to take Extraordinary precautions in returning
                            Home, otherwise I shall find myself in worse Circumstances for Having made Greater Sacrifices—my not Having been promoted
                            after four years services will be an argument of so powerful a nature against me as will requiere the strongest testimonies
                            to fight against it—your Exellency is the only friend I have found in this Country, & the marks I Have been So
                            Happy as to receive of your bounty, makes me bold in this last application before I take my departure—it is that you will
                            favour me with a letter to the Marechal duc de Biron my ancient Colonel Expressing your approbation of my Conduct
                            & the reasons for what I Could not be promoted this I Can assure to your Exellency will be a most flattering
                            demarch towards the marechal & will be of great benefit to me—I Do not know that it Has been Customary for you to
                            give Similars lettres to others of my Country men, but I Hope my peculiar Situation & your goodness for me will
                            induce you to make a distinction in my favour—I Have the less Hesitation in making this entreaty as though you Have not in
                            all probability a Correspondence with the marechal duc, I am Certain He will think it the Highest Honor to receive a
                            lettre from the father of the american revolution, & I believe lettres of this kind to be not uncustomary when
                            officers of one nation Serve in the army of another.
                        I Shall Have the Gretiest obligation to your Exellency for your Complience, & shall be Happy in every
                            occasion of testifying to you the gratitude as well as: the admiration, respect & attachement with which I Have the
                            Honor to be your Exellency’s the most Hble & obedt srt

                            C. armand


Title: To George Washington from John Brown, 4 February 1781
From: Brown, John
To: Washington, George

                            Dr Sr
                            Providence Feby 4th 1781

                        With due Submission to your Excellencys Superior Judgment, I now take the Liberty to Mention a Matter which
                            appears to me to bid fair for great Advantages to the United States in General, tho it may be otherwise to this State in
                            perticular, from the late Disaster of the Culloden one of the Enemys 74 Gun
                            Ships and the Dismastment of One more of the Ships of the Line at Gardners Bay, the French Fleet at Newport is at Least
                            Equal if not Superior to the Enemys’, and tho I am Fully Sensible of the Advantage Arising to this State in perticular
                            from the Fleet and Army of our Allys being posted at Newport, yet as the Good of the Whole Union Ought to govern in every
                            Breast, and as it appears to me from every Circumstance that the Enemy have much greater Expectations of Success in
                            weakning if not breaking some of the Southern and most Material Links of the Chain, then they Can have in Any part of New
                            England, Theirfore Would it not be best, if our Allies do not think proper to Attack the Enemys Fleet in the Sound (as the
                            Dismasted Ship may then be of equil Service with aney Other) to Sail Immediately, either with or without the Armey as Your
                            Excellency May Direct for Virginia, by which means the Infamous Arnold with all the Enemys Fleet and Armey may fall in to
                            our Hands, and that State Rescued from their present Distresses, it appears Clear to me that the Genl Advantage to the
                            whole would Encourage the Fleet and Army of our Allies to go to the Southern States, but its a Doubt to me Whether a Genl
                            Embarcation of the Troops at Newport Can be Effected in Time to arive at Verginia before the Enemys Fleet will get
                            Intelligence of their Movements & Come out of the Bay. But I think the Prospect is Very great of takg the whole of the
                            Enemy at Verginia provided the Fleet Only would Sail for that purpose from Newport Immediately or as
                            Soone as possable after Your Command.
                        These Suggestions are from my own mind and to One only of whome no man on Earth has a greater Esteem and Respect
                            than my Self I therefore beg they may be received with the Same Cordiallity with
                            which they are paid. I am with every Sentiment of Respect and Reverence, Dr Sr Your Obedient and Invariable Friend—

                            John Brown

   This Ship took my Ship Genl Washington Mountg 20 Six pound Cannon & owned all by My Self, She
                                was when tacon going 13 Nots and no other of Admiral Arbuthnots Fleet Could Sail as fast as the Genl Washington. This
                                among the many Capital Losses I have Sustaind in the Course of the present War was the most mortyfying, She being a
                                Very beautifull, Valuable and Favorite Ship with a Striking of the Person whose Name She bore affixed to her Head.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 4 February 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            West point Feby 4 1781

                        Yesterday I was honored with yours of the 2d.
                        Immediately upon receiving the signification of your pleasure, I called on the state Clothiers for a return of
                            Blankets received by them since the last delivery; enclosed are those from Connecticut and New Hampshire—that from
                            Massachusetts was made from Fish kill to the Clothier—generals Office.
                        I endeavoured to learn from Major General Howe the cause of the detention of Colonel Scammells Detachment in
                            Jersey, and to state it precisely to your Excellency; I am sorry that I was unfortunate, or thought to be so deficient as
                            to give you any grounds for surprize.
                        Major Campbell informs me that considerable quantities of Forage may be brought, from below the lines if teams
                            can be obtained; but that it is not possible to obtain them in this State; that there are teams in the neighbouring towns
                            in Connecticut, and as near the Forage as those in this State, which are worn down. The difficulty is to obtain them. The
                            Quarter masters have nothing to induce them. I beg leave to submit it to your Excellency’s consideration, that the
                            Quartermaster general may take such measures as may be thought proper, either by writing to Governor Trumbull for an
                            impress Warrant or to exercise his own authority if competent, and the getting off the Forage should be thought of
                            consequence sufficient to require the exercise of it.
                        Major Cartwright, who has been for several years in my family as one of my Aids de Camp, (and lately gone to
                            Boston) has requested leave to resign. He has no other connection with the Army. Will your Excellency please to give the
                            discharge, or shall I do it? He has served with fidelity and honor.
                        I thank your Excellency for information of the resolution of the General Assembly of the Common wealth of
                            Massachusetts to clothe their Troops. The honorable the Speaker has lately informed me that the Commonwealth were
                            determin’d to do every thing in their power for the Army—That a large quantity of Clothing had gone on some time since,
                            which, he flattered himself, had arrived at the Army—and that an Express who would deliver me the letter would bring on a
                            sum of Money. In a postscript to his letter, he observes the Express was detained, & something further would be
                            done. This was before the arrival of General Knox; since which, your Excellency, I presume, is fully informed if what has
                            been done; which I think every one will consider as very generous.
                        Colo. Smith, late Deputy Quartermaster at Springfield, informed me yesterday: that about fifty hogsheads of
                            woolen Clothing was at that place when he came away and had been there for some time. This is probably the Clothing which
                            the Speaker supposed had arrived at the Army. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most
                            obedient Servant

                            W. Heath

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Pumpton Feby 1st 1781.

                            I am honor’d this Evening with your letter of the 31st Ult. In answer I beg leave to inform you that I
                                arrived at this place the 29th of Jany in the evening—On my arrival (& not before) I was inform’d that Genl Howe
                                had return’d with the detachment under his command. As my men were much fatigu’d with marching, I purpos’d returning
                                the 31st giving them one day to refresh themselves. But on information from Colo. Shreive that he had wrote to Genl
                                Howe requesting that his detachment might remain a few days longer and that Gl Howe had consented, and agreed to
                                remain himself at Smiths Clove. I presum’d it would be most proper for me to remain in my present station till further
                                orders. And accordingly wrote to Genl Howe. But my Letter has either miscarried or did not overtake him previous to
                                the writing of your Letter—I shall march very early Tomorrow morning by way of Kakeat if the weather will permit, and
                                expect to cross Kings Ferry at 12 oClock the 3d Inst. I have Honor to be most respectfully Yr Obedt & very
                                Humble servt

                                Alexdr Scammell

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Vere planks Point Feby 3d 1781 12 oClock

                            In obedience to your Order of the 31st Ulto I marchd Yesterday Morning 10 oClock from Pumpton quarter’d at
                                Kakeat last Night and had cross’d part of my Battalion over Kings Ferry when I was honor’d with yours of the 1st Inst.
                                When I left Pumpton, the Jersey Line appear’d to be settled down to a very considerable degree of Tranquility.
                                & seem’d to be rather chagrin’d than mutinous. The Committee had made considerable progress in examining the
                                men’s Inlistments, and out of a Regt & half of the men present they had discharg’d but two, And altho so many
                                of them faild in their pretended claims, I could not learn that they discover’d any dissatisfaction. And as the
                                british Troops had left staten Island, and return’d to their quarters, I presume I should have left Pumpton by this
                                morning had your letter reach’d me Yesterday. As there was no apparent necessity for my remaining longer—When I wrote
                                Genl Howe we fully & hourly expected the british would have landed in force at Elizabeth Town. & we
                                were uncertain what effect the Hand Bills from Sr Harry might have had upon the minds of the Jersey Troops. But I
                                believe now there is nothing to be apprehended from either. The Troops under my command will reach their Hutts this
                                evening except Colo. Hazen’s men. I shall do myself the honor of waiting upon you Tomorrow & am most
                                respectfully

                                A. Scammell


Title: To George Washington from John Laurens, 4 February 1781 to 7 February 1781
From: Laurens, John
To: Washington, George

                            My dear General.
                            Boston 4-7 Feby 1781.

                        Upon my arrival here the 25th Ulto I found that men and money were still wanting to fit the Alliance frigate
                            for sea—I immediately insisted on the necessity of an impress, and of having recourse to extraordinary means for the
                            necessary supply of money—The Head of the navy board who is at the same time, a leading member in the house of
                            Representatives gave me such positive assurances on both points—as tempted me to employ the interval of preparation in my
                            visit to Newport—but as I was returning, I was met with a letter informing me that the motion for an impress had been
                            rejected. to add to our difficulties the terror of the impress had cleared the port of Seamen—and deprived us of the
                            little succour we derived from the ships rendezvous—In these circumstances I was reduced to the necessity of soliciting
                            Genl Lincoln for authority to engage such Voluntiers from the Continental Recruits of their states and soldiers of the
                            invalid Corps—as might be qualified for the sea-service—I applied to Gov. Hancock for similar authority with respect to a
                            Corps of State troops which garrison the Castle—I addressed myself to the principal merchants—and tried every expedient
                            that could be thought of—as Gov. Hancock could not act but with the authority of the General Court I yesterday presented a
                            memorial, and obtained permission to inlist twenty Voluntiers from the Castle Guard—General Lincoln whom zeal in the
                            service of his country is indefatigable, has condescendingly undertaken to use his general influence in engaging the men
                            and is gone down to the Castle with a sum of specie, allowed by the Genl Court for that purpose—if he is successful we
                            shall be able to go to sea with confidence—These men are the more necessary to us, as they are natives and persons upon
                            whose attachement we can depend—as a counterbalance to a number of british prisoners who were admitted on board, when the
                            ship first began to be man’d.
                        I am at all events determined to insist on Barrys sailing with the first wind—I have admitted as many
                            passengers as could be accomodated on condition of their serving as voluntier Marines—they will likewise be an additional
                            security against the suspected part of our Crew.
                        7th Captain Barry says our ship is but barely manned—however I am determined to embark today—and expect he
                            will sail in the course of the week. Wind and weather permitting.
                        I have only time to entreat Your Excellency to present my respects to Mrs Washington — and accept the
                            assurances of attachment with which I am unalterably yours

                            John Laurens.


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 4 February 1781
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dr Sir
                            Trenton 4 Febry 1781

                        I have received your Excellency’s favour of the 27th January; and rejoice to hear that the mutiny in the
                            Jersey line is so compleatly suppressed. As lenity is, upon some occasions, truly politic, severity is upon others,
                            absolutely indispensible, and probably from the success of the Pensylvania mutineers, the fever of revolt would soon have
                            become epidemical, had not the sharpest remedy been applied to check the contagion. I hope however, as well from a regard
                            to Justice, as to prevent all future Insurrections on pretence of being detained in Service, beyond the expiration of their
                            Enlistments, that the grounds of all such complaints, if any are still made, may be thoroughly investigated. I have the
                            honour to be, with the greatest Esteem Dear Sir your Excellency’s most obedient Servant

                            Wil: Livingston


Title: To George Washington from Oliver Phelps, 4 February 1781
From: Phelps, Oliver
To: Washington, George

                            May it please your Excellency,
                            Granville Feby 4th 1781

                        I have received your favour of Janry 26th directed to the late superintending Committee—As this Committee is
                            now no more, I have the honor to answer you: and full gladly do I wish it were in my power effectually
                            to supply your wants—Our assembly, in their present session, have dissolved the late Committee, and by an act of Court (of
                            which I have the honor to enclose you a Copy) have been pleased to appoint me as a superintendant of purchases in their
                            stead.
                        I am to inform you that I depended on the specific tax for supplies. The weight of taxes upon the people for
                            the discharge of debts &c. contracted during the last campaign prevents the payment
                            of the beef tax in so speedy a manner as I could wish, nor I cannot promise to supply more than sixty
                            head of cattle by the week, beside what I shall barrel. All the embarressments in the business I foresee
                            will arise from the want of money, with which could I be well furnished I would
                            venture to engage to supply nearly the whole army with meat from the Massachusetts.
                        The Country is by no means exhausted; I only want the means to get hold of its resources—Money alone must do
                            it: for although I am vested with every power the legislature can endow me withal, yet, fatal will be the consequences of
                            taking cattle from the farmers by impress; it may serve for this year, but the next they will feed no more for market, and
                            famine must ensue—I am fully sensible that your Excellency can never be held responsible for the important posts on
                            North-river, or the continuance of the Army in the field, unless you are aided with supplies of food—Yet I tremble for
                            events when I read in your last favour, that unless the supplies required from this State may be depended on, the most
                            tremendous consequences must ensue—We have always done more than we thought it possible for us to do we are willing, yea
                            more, we are determined, to exert most strenuously every nerve in your favour.
                        We could wish that a sister State might be aroused to action and that some kind Divinity would help us to
                            dispel that magic influence, which seems to have possessed them: induce them for a moment to become forgetful of the
                            cursed chiming of Silver and to attend to the extremities of their Country.
                        I have seen the late regulations of Congress and gladly could I wish they had been for the better. I have
                            wrote Colo. Blaine largely on the subject and have desired him to influence Congress to an alteration of the plan. I am
                            fully convinced that as to the live cattle, it never can be adopted, so as to afford you the supplies with regularity, for
                            in the towns in this State, where the Quartermaster Generals Assistants are established, there is no pasturage; in
                            addition to this, the persons appointed as store keepers I have no doubt are able fully to discharge that part of the
                            business which has a relation to merchandize & stores, yet as to the estimating and forwarding of live Cattle, they
                            cannot be supposed to have any knowledge of it.
                        I shall however, follow these regulations in Congress are pleased to determine the matter only offer it as my
                            opinion that the forwarding the live cattle had much better be done by an assistant of the Commissary General, whom I may
                            have placed as near me as possible, and with whom I may advise as there shall be occasion—I have the honor may it please
                            your Excellency, to be with sentiments of the most sincere esteem, your most obedt and faithful humble servant

                            Oliver Phelps


Title: From George Washington to John Sullivan, 4 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

                            Dear Sir,
                            New Windsor Feby 4th 1781

                        Colo. Armand deliver’d me your favor of the 29th Ulto last Evening & I thank you for the sevl
                            communications contained in it—The measure adopted by Congress of appointing a Minister of War—Finance—& for
                            Foreign Affairs I think a very wise one. To give efficacy to it, proper characters will, no doubt, be chosen to conduct
                            the business of these departments. How far Colo. Hamilton—of whom you ask my opinion as a financier—has turned his
                            thoughts to that particular study I am unable to ansr because I never entered upon a discussion of this post with him—but
                            this I can venture to advance from a thorough knowledge of him, that there are few men to be found, of his age, who has a
                            more general knowledge than he possesses—and none whose Soul is more firmly engaged in the cause—or who exceeds him in
                            probity & Sterling virtue.
                        I am clearly in Sentiment with you that our cause only became distressed—& apparently desperate from
                            an imprr management of it. And that errors once discovered are more than half amended—I have no doubt of our abilities or
                            Resources, but we must not slumber nor Sleep—they never will be drawn forth if we do—nor will violent exertions which
                            subside with the occasion answer our purposes. It is a provident foresight—a proper arrangement of business—system
                            & order in the execution that is to be productive of that œconomy which is to defeat the efforts & hopes
                            of Great Britain—And I am happy—thrice happy on private as well as public acct, to find that these are in train; for it
                            will ease my Shoulders of as immense burthen which the deranged & perplexed Situation of our Affairs and the
                            distresses of every department of the Army which concentred in the Comdr in chief had placed upon them.
                        I am not less pleased to hear that Maryland has acceded to the confederation, & that Virginia has
                            relinquished its claim to the Land West of the Ohio—which for fertility of Soil—pleasantry of clime & other Natul
                            advantages is equal to any known tract of Country in the Universe of the same extent taking the great Lakes for its
                            Northern boundary.
                        I wish most devoutly a happy completion to your plan of finance (which you say is near finished)—and much
                            success to your scheme of borrowing Coined specie, and Plate. but in what manner do you propose to apply the latter? as a
                            fund to redeem its value in Paper, to be emitted—or to coin it? If the latter it will add one more to a thousand other
                            reasons wch might be offered in proof of the necessity of vesting legislative or dictatorial powers in Congress to make
                            Laws of general utility for the purposes of War &c. that they might prohibit under the pains, and penalty of death
                            specie and Provisions going into the Enemy for Goods. The Traffic with New York is immense. Individual States will not
                            make it felony, lest (among other reasons) it should not become genel, & nothing short of it will ever check, much
                            less stop a practice which at the same time that it serves to drain us of our Provisions and Specie removes the barrier
                            between us and the enemy, corrupt the morals of our people by a lucrative traffic & by degrees weaken the opposition,
                            affords a mean to obtain regular and perfect intelligence of every thing among us while even in this respect we benefit
                            nothing from a fear of discovery. Men of all descriptions are now indiscriminately engaging in it, Whig, Tory, Speculator.
                            By its being practiced by those of the latter class, in a mannr with impunity, Men who, two or three yrs ago, would have
                            shuddered at the idea of such connexions now pursue it with avidity and reconcile it to themselves (in which their profits
                            plead powerfully) upon a principle of equality, with the Tory, who being actuated by principle, (favourable to us) &
                            knowing that a forfeiture of the Goods to the Informer was all he had to dread and that this was to be eluded by an
                            agreemt to inform against each an other, went into the measure witht resqe.
                        This is a degression, but the subject is of so serious a nature, and so interesting to our well being as a
                            Nation, that I never expect to see a happy termination of the War; nor great national concerns well conducted in Peace,
                            till there is something more than a recommendatory power in Congress. It is not possible in time of War that business can
                            be conducted well without it. The last words therefore of my letter and the first wish of my heart concur in favor of it.
                            I am with much esteem and respect Dr Sir Yr obt & Affe Servt

                            Go: W-----n


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 4 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 4th 1781

                        I was yesterday honored with your Excellencys Letter of the 31 of Janry by Genl Knox. The exertions
                            the Eastern States are making afford me great satisfaction.
                        I am sorry there should be so much justice, in Your Excellencys observation respecting the irregularity of
                            supply & consequent waste of the live Cattle sometimes sent to the Army. It is easy to trace this Irregularity & misfortune to its
                            source: Each State is called upon for the Weekly or Monthly proportion of the Supplies demanded by Congress. A failure in
                            any one, involves the Army in distressing want to releive which, the most pressing representations are made, which in some
                            instances are attended with such efficacy, as to bring on the supplies that have been retained, & produce such a
                            temporary redundance, as is attended, with the loss & waste which your Excellency mentions. To depend upon a daily
                            supply of live Cattle as has been the case hitherto under these circumstances must produce one of the disagreeable
                            alternatives before recited. The negligence of the purchaser, or the Driver, the badness of the roads, or interruption of
                            Waters, inevitably bring on a scarcity, which threatens the Army with dissolution—While on the contrary a large stock in
                            hand, produced by whatever contingency, is attended with waste; As neither the Commissy or Quarter Mastr have the Means
                            of disposing of them Cattle immediately, or supporting them alive at Camp—I have not the least doubt, but the Army might be
                            fed, at half the present expence, by having proper Magazines laid in, and Arrangements made for the Department—At the same
                            time, I do not see but two ways to remedy the evil complained of—either to furnish the Commissary Genl with Money to
                            purchase & make him accountable for the supplies of the Army, which made, I conceive would be far preferable—Or, to
                            oblige the State Agents, or Contractors to comply punctually with the requisitions made upon them.
                        In determining the places of Deposit for the specific supplies required of the States, it was necessary I
                            should have regard to the subsequent transportation to the probable theatre of action, & to the difficulty of performing
                            this, by land carriage, from the want of Money & Means in the Quarter Master Department—I will candidly
                            acknowledge, it was from these considerations I was induced to fix One of the Magazines of the State of Connecticut at
                            Hartford, from whence Water transportation might eventually be had—And the other at Bulls Falls, as
                            being the nearest Point to the Nor. River, & our present principal force, where the Deposit could safely be made—From the
                            Western parts of the state,&  places contiguous to the Sound, which may be as near to West Point as Bulls Iron
                            Works, it will certainly be eligible to have the Provisions forwarded directly to the former.
                        I thank you for the Books sent & will return them after perusal. With the greatest consideration
                            & esteem I have the honor to be


Title: General Orders, 5 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Monday February 5th 1781
                            Parole
                            Countersigns

                        The commanding officers of corps will furnish the recruiting officers of their respective regiments now out,
                            or who may be sent out, with the following instructions signed by themselves.
                        Sirs
                        You are to repair as soon as possible to the State of
                            for the purpose of inlisting and forwarding recruits, as mention’d in the resolution of Congress of the 3d of October
                            last.
                        You will on your arrival apply to the executive authority of the state for directions relative to the mode of
                            subsisting yourself and your parties, the conditions of inlistments and the rendezvous of the recruits.
                        You are to inlist none but such persons as the Law permits Subjects or inhabitants of the State of  not under the age of sixteen nor above that of fifty of sufficient
                            stature and ability of body to discharge all the duties of a private soldier, free from lameness, or other infirmity which
                            may render him incapable thereof.
                        You are not to inlist any deserters from the Enemy nor any person disaffected, or suspicious character with
                            respect to the government of these States. All the charge and expence of a recruit who does not pass muster for either of
                            these defects or disqualifications shall be defrayed by the officer who engaged him.
                        You will have every recruit attested before a peace officer General Officer Judge Advocate or one of his
                            deputies agreeable to the third Section of the Articles of War; and you will require him to sign a paper which shall
                            express the term and conditions of service for which he is engaged and the bounty he has receiv’d fairly written at length
                            without Erasure or Interlineation so as to prevent all ambiguity, doubts or dispute, and after the Recruit is so attested
                            and engaged you are on no account to exchange or discharge him.
                        You will carefully enter your Recruits on a size roll specifying in seperate columns the Name, Age, size,
                            trade or profession, place of nativity, place of residence, time of inlistment, draft, term of Service, bounty in money
                            clothing &ca.
                        And you will report Monthly to the commanding officer of your regiment the number of men you have received or
                            enlisted and transmit size rolls of the draughts or recruits whom you shall from time to time send on to the regiment. To:
                                 given at this  day of  178.
                        The Cloathiers of the New Hampshire Rhode Island Massachusetts Connecticut and Jersey Lines, the Artillery
                            and Hazen’s Regiment will call upon the Cloathier General for their respective proportions of Blankets.


Title: From George Washington to Epaphras Bull, 5 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Bull, Epaphras

                            Sir
                            Hd Qrs N. Windsor Feby 5th 1781

                        You are to join the 4th Regt of Dragoons vice Majr Fantleroy, who is directed to join the 1st Regt. I am Sir
                            &c.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Cartwright, 5 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Cartwright, Thomas

                             5 February 1781

                        Major Thomas Cartwright, Aid De Camp to Major General Heath, having sollocited permission, to retire from the
                            Army, is hereby honorably discharged from the Service of the United States. Given Under My hand at Head Quarters New
                            Windsor this 5th day of Febry 1781.


Title: From George Washington to Moore Fauntleroy, 5 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Fauntleroy, Moore

                            Sir
                            Head Quarter New Windsor Feby 5th 1781

                        Having been induced from local considerations, to Order Major Bull to join the 4th Regt of Dragoons. you will
                            be pleased to join the 1st Regiment, and do duty with the same. I am Sir Your Most Obed. Servt


Title: To George Washington from Nicholas Haussegger, 5 February 1781
From: Haussegger, Nicholas
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            New York, February 5th 1781

                        The principles of the present Contest have been so totally changed, from what they were, when I first
                            accepted a Commission under your command, and myself so much neglected and injuriously treated by those in whose service I
                            was, that I cannot consistent with the honest Man, and in justice to myself hold it any longer.
                        I have therefore taken the Liberty to enclose my Colonels Commission (my Major’s Commission being long since
                            lost, with this my final Resignation thereof, which your Excellency will make acceptable to
                            Congress. And am with respect, Your Excellency’s, most obedt humble Servt

                            Nicks Haussegger


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 5 February 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            West point, Feby 5. 1781.

                        I request to be informed if it is your Excellency’s pleasure that the detachment under the command of Major
                            Throop should still be continued at Ringwood, or be called in.
                        In yours of the 14. ulto you was pleased to consent to Major Bauman’s trying some experiments in Gunnery, but
                            advised a delay at that time. Shall they be tried now, when the weather is suitable?
                        Enclosed is a return of blankets received by the 2d Rhode Island regiment from the State. It did not arrive
                            till this morning. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient Servant

                            W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 5 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 5th 1781

                        I enclose you a Copy of the Resolution of Congress of the 23d Janry on the subject of remounting the Regiments
                            of Dragoons. It will be necessary to observe, that the Horses purchased for this service ought to be in size, strength,
                            figure, & fleetness, capable of performing the duties for which they are designed. Otherwise the purchase money
                            will be thrown away, as has sometimes been the Case.
                        General Heath mentions in a Letter of yesterday the practicability, of obtaining a quantity of forage from
                            below the Lines, if teams could be had for the purpose. He suggests whether teams could not be procured from the Western
                            Part of Connecticut by impress or otherwise—And whether if they cannot, in the Ordinary Mode, it would not be expedient
                            to make application to the Governor of the State for an impress Warrant—I leave the Matter to your discretion. I am Dear
                            Sir Your Most Obed. Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From David Humphreys to Timothy Pickering, 5 February 1781
From: Humphreys, David
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 5th 1781

                        Mr Gamble reports there are 800 Barrels of flour at Morris Town, and 200 at Ringwood—Tho the General does not
                            doubt your Agents have instructions on the subject of forwarding it, and that Measures are taking for the purpose—Yet he
                            thinks the Roads so favorable now, that more than usual efforts ought to be made, to improve the opportunity by calling
                            forth the whole strength of the Country for transportation. Besides the advantage of getting so handsome a supply into the
                            Fort, which will put the Garrison for some time beyond contingency; the insecurity of its present position will be a
                            stimilus with those who have the interest of the Country at Heart. And others will assist with the less reluctance from
                            the fondness they have to this mode of conveyance, especially as the sleighing is likely to be better than it has been
                            known at almost any season. I am Dear Sir With the greatest respect & esteem Your Most Obed. Servt

                            D. Humphrys—A.D.C.


Title: To George Washington from Francis Barber, 6 February 1781
From: Barber, Francis
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Pompton Febry 6th 1781

                        I transmit to your Excellency the arrangement of the Jersey brigade. The inclosed certificate of Colonel
                            Shreve will explain upon what principles he is deranged.
                        In the return of the supernumerary officers which accompanies this, you will observe that Captain Philips is
                            deranged on account of an agreement between him & Capt. Lieut. Weyman of the same regiment, the former going out
                            on the halfpay of the latter. Colonel Shreve has undertaken to vouch for the propriety of the measure from his having good
                            information that the like has been admited in other Lines of the army.
                        I am unwilling to trouble your Excellency with complaints of any kind, but I conceive it my duty to represent
                            the disagreeable situation we are in for want of a Commandant of brigade. The eldest officers in camp are Lt Colonel
                            DeHart & myself, between whom there is a dispute of rank, although it was desided last summer in my favor by the
                            Legislature of the State to whom the dispute was refered. This difficulty might be removed & many good purposes
                            obtained could a Brigadier General be spared to take the command until Colonel Dayton’s health will permit him to join the
                            brigade. I have writen to Col. Dayton urging the necessity of his attendance in camp, but he has informed me his health
                            will not allow him.
                        Col. Shreve requested I would inform your Excellency that in consequence of application from Major Barber, he
                            has consulted both the Majors in the brigade & oldest Captains respecting their accepting the office of Brigade
                            Major, and that they wish to decline it. I know this to be case, and not only so, that it is their as well as the superior
                            officers wish that Major Barber be appointed Brigade Major to this Brigade. Major Barber is very anxious to come into the
                            brigade as well as to continue in the service. Should your Excellency conceive it admissible when the principles , you will confer an obligation on him & the Brigade to order the appointment.
                        I have the pleasure to inform, that since the subduction of the revolters, the soldiers have behaved regular
                            & obedient, and that no desertion has happened, which is contrary to my expectation. I have the honor to be, with
                            the most perfect respect & Esteem your Excellencys most obdient, humble Servant

                            F. Barber
                            Lieut. Colo.


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 6 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 6th 1781

                        I take the first opportunity to resolve the questions in your Letter of the 5th. The Detachment with Major
                            Troop may be recalled.
                        Major Bauman will also have permission to make the experiments in Gunnery whenever it is convenient, General
                            Knox being previously apprised by him, of the time. I am Dear Sir With very great regard & esteem Your Most Obed.
                            Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Jefferson, 6 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Jefferson, Thomas

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters New Windsor February 6th 1781

                        I am much obliged to your Excellency for your letter of the 10th of January, giving me an account of the
                            enemy’s incursion into your State. Baron De Steuben has informed me of their successive operations to five miles below
                            Hoods. It is mortifying to see so inconsiderable a party committing such extensive depredations with impunity: but
                            considering the situation of your state, it is to be wondered you have hitherto suffered so little molestation. I am
                            apprehensive you will experience more in future: nor should I be surprised if the enemy were to establish a Post in
                            Virginia till the season for opening the Campaign here. But as the evils you have to apprehend from these predatory
                            incursions are not to be compared with the injury to the common cause and with the danger to your state in particular,
                            from the conquest of those states southward of you, I am persuaded the attention to your imediate safety will not divert
                            you from the measures intended to reinforce the Southern Army and put it in a condition to stop the progress of the enemy
                            in that Quarter. The late accession of force makes them very formidable in  Carolina—too formidible to be resisted
                            without powerfull succours for Virginia; and it is certainly her policy as well as the interest of America to keep the
                            weight of the War at a distance from her. There is no doubt that a principal object of Arnolds operations is to make a
                            diversion in favour of Cornwallis and to remove this motive by disappointing the intention will be one of the surest ways
                            to remove the enemy.
                        We have just received an account that the enemy’s fleet employed in blocking that of our allies at Rhode
                            Island has lately suffered severely by a storm. One seventy four is said to have been stranded and intirely lost on the
                            East End of Long Island—another (same accounts say two others) dismasted and towed into Gardners Bay—and a ninety driven
                            to sea in great distress—I expect every moment a confirmation and the particulars of this agreeable intelligence. I have
                            the honor to be with sentiments of perfect respect and the warmest esteem—Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and Humble
                            servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Holden Parsons, 6 February 1781
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Fishkill 6th Feby 1781

                        I was on my Way to wait on your Excellency but the Difficulty of passing the River prevents my pursuing my
                            Intention.
                        The inclosd Letter from Major Alden & Certificate from the Officer commanding the Regiment, is to
                            request his Discharge from the Service—I am sorry his circumstances require him to leave the Army, but am convincd his
                            Reasons are such as ought to intitle him to his Discharge—I have known him from the Time of his engaging in Service and no
                            young Gentleman, I believe, has merited a better Character as an Officer in our late Enterprize he was kind enough to
                            assist me, when I had Opportunity of receiving convincing Proof of his personal Bravery, coolness & judicious
                            Conduct. Though I think the Army will loose a very valuable Officer yet I must join him in requesting his Discharge. If
                            your Excellency can think he merits any particular Marks of Distinction in his Discharge: your Approbation of him will be
                            particularly agreable to the Delicacy of his Sentiments & Feelings; he has never receivd his Commission is the
                            Reason it is not transmitted. When the River becomes passible I shall wait on your Excellency on other Affairs. Our
                                Lines at present remain quiet. The Enemy since our Enterprize have removd to the Point of
                            Morrisania near the Widow Morris’s where (if whale Boats could be provided in the Sound) they may be wholly extirpated
                            with more ease & less Danger than in any other Way. I am with the greatest Respect, Yr Excellency’s Obedt Servt
                        Saml H. Parsons


Title: To George Washington from John Richardson, 6 February 1781
From: Richardson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir.
                            Philadelphia Feby 6th 1781

                        To your Excellency as the Father of your Officers, and the Guardian of their Rights and Honor, We the
                            subscribers officers in the Pennsylvania Line are induced to represent our greivances and situation which on the first
                            Veiw we are well convinc’d from your Excellencys known delicacy you will better conceive than we can express and therefore
                            readily excuse this intrusion on your more important considerations.
                        We beg leave to inform your Excellency that we were amongst the first in support of our Countries Rights, and
                            disregarding our domestic calls, encounter’d the dangers and hardships of the feild under your command, were unfortunately
                            made Prisoners by the Enemy in the campain of Seventy Six where we suffer’d all the Severity of treatment a cruel and at
                            that time an exulting Foe could inflict with that fortitude and perseverance recommended by your
                            Excellency and which we promised ourselves should obtain the approbation of a gratefull Country and distinguish us as Men
                            superior to Adversity and Misfortune in the Worst of times.
                        That during our captivity many resolves were enter’d into by the Legislature of our State, confirming our
                            opinions "that we were entitled to all the Rank Pay and Emoluments of Officers in actual service" and "when Exchanged
                            should be provided for." Notwithstanding which in May 1779 after our exchange, Congress were pleased to resolve, that all
                            Officers that were Prisoners or had been exchanged and were not in the arrangement should be dismissed the Service with
                            the trifling gratuity of one years pay advance and a reference to a former resolve of that honorable Body thanking a
                            Number of officers (which it was thought propper to select as Supernumeraries on what occasion we know not) for thier
                            pass’d Services.
                        That altho all the pay we had ever receiv’d and the year’s pay advance was very inadequate to our losses and
                            expences in a long captivity, yet as we conceive it to be a measure adopted to avoid the confusion & difficulties
                            which had taken place in the arrangement; we did not complain, conceiving it not affecting our reputation in particular as
                            the dismission was general.
                        But on the last exchange taking place Congress have been pleased on the first of January last to Resolve,
                            that it is the sense of that honorable body that all officers exchanged since the new arrangement should be entitled to
                            the same Rank Pay and Emoluments as if they had been in active service, thereby making an invidious distinction between
                            those officers exchanged previous to the last arrangement & those since exchanged, partially rescinding the
                            resolve of May the 22d 1779 in favor of a part, where all in the said resolution described are equaly entitled to the
                            benefits and advantages.
                        We consider ourselves much injur’d by a dismission and discrimination so peculiarly degrading, without a
                            reason assigned for such a proceedure.
                        Your Excellency will please to pardon us for requesting your interferance in behalf of our Rights (when we
                            assure you Sir, nothing but the greatest Violence done our feelings as Officers and Men of Honor could induce us to
                            intrude our complaints when every Moment of your Excellencies time is engaged in the most important concerns) and that You
                            will please to favor us with your concurrence in an application to the Honorable the Legislature of the State of
                            Pensylvania which is now preparing. We are with the greatest Esteem Your Excellency’s most Obedient & Verry Humble
                            Servants
                        N.B. Signed in behalf of ourselves & others the whole included not exceeding in number fifteen.

                            John Richardson Capt.
                            Dan. Brodhead jr Capt.
                            John Lawrence Capt. 6thJohn Morgan Capt. 6th
                            Jno. Helm, Capt. 6th
                            Danl Topham 13th Captn
                            Robert Caldwell Capn 9th
                            Bernard Ward Capn 13th
                            Matths Wiederman Capt. 13th


Title: From George Washington to Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von] Steuben, 6 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von]

                            Dr Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 6th 81

                        I have duly received your several letters of December the 28th 29th Janry the 8th 11th; which the smallness
                            of my family at this time and a multiplicity of business have prevented my acknowleging sooner.
                        I am sorry for your embarrassments and obliged to you for your exertions. With the materials you have, I am
                            sure you will do the best you can; and I hope the state by adopting better arrangements will hereafter aid you more
                            effectually. The Governor in his letter to me does justice to your efforts and to your zeal.
                        The enclosed copies of the resolutions of Congress of the 4th of December & 1st of Jany will inform
                            you of all they have done relative to your department since the last establishment.
                        The measures you have taken with regard to the assembling of recruits furloughs and discharges will I am
                            persuaded be very useful. I have written to Congress to make similar regulations general. When I receive their
                            determination I will communicate it to you.
                        You will have heard of the defections of the Pensylvania line and the disagreeable compromise made with them.
                            It has ended in a temporary dissolution of the line. One half has been absolutely discharged and the remainder have been
                            furloughed to reassemble in the beginning of April. The oaths of the men respecting the terms of their inlistments were
                            precipitably admitted before the documents could be produced; by which it afterwards appeared, the greater part had perjured
                            themselves, to get rid of the service. We had it not in our power to employ coertion in the first instance owing to the
                            distance they were from the main army, and a variety of other impediments which you will easily conceive. I am told the
                            line will soon be reestablished on a better footing by new inlistments.
                        Fortunately a part of the Jersey line since followed their example and gave us an opportunity, after
                            compelling all the mutineers to an unconditional surrender, to make examples of two of the most active leaders. The
                            perfect submission and penatence which appeared, made it unadvisiable to extend the severity—I believe we shall have no more trouble at present from a spirit of
                            this kind.
                        We have just received the agreeable news of the British fleet, in the sound having suffered in a late
                            storm—One seventy four it is said has been stranded and entirely lost on Montauk point—another (some accounts say two)
                            dismasted and towed into Gardners bay—one of Ninety, after having been seen—in great distress forced to sea. This
                            intelligence comes to me from the Count De Rochambeau—I wait every moment a confirmation and the particulars. Mr Destouche
                            was waiting for the same, ready to put to sea with his whole fleet.
                        The enemy at New York seem to be doing nothing. We were told some time since of their having embarked heavy
                            cannon and stores; but we have heard nothing of their destination—I shall not be surprised, if a post is established in
                            Virginia. I am with every sentiment of esteem and regard Dr Baron Yr Obedient Servant.


Title: From George Washington to James Caldwell, 7 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Caldwell, James

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 7th 1781

                        I have been favoured with your Letter of the 30th Ultimo.
                        It is with pleasure I learn, that the principles on which the Commissioners are acting, will do justice
                            to the Troops of New Jersey, and eventually give pretty general satisfaction without injuring the service by any
                            considerable diminution of their numbers.
                        Upon weighing maturely the reasons for removing the Jersey Troops from their present Cantonment to Morristown, I have given Orders for the purpose. This I hope will be productive of all the good consequences you suggest, and
                            especially that it will tend essentially to promote the recruiting service; which, I consider as an object of the greatest
                            importance, and to which almost all others ought to be subservient. With great esteem and regard I am, Sir, &c. G.Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Cottringer, 7 February 1781
From: Cottringer, John
To: Washington, George

                                7 February 1781

                                1781

                                To John Cottringer, Dr.

                                February 7th

                                To making a regimental Suit of Cloaths

                                4.

                                2 yards Superfine buff cloth

                                at £ 5

                                10.

                                2 1/2 yard blue do

                                at £ 4.10

                                9.

                                11.

                                3

                                4 yards Ratinett

                                at 15/

                                3.

                                4 yards Linnen

                                at 8/6

                                1.

                                14

                                3 1/2 dozen best gilt Buttons

                                at 15/

                                2.

                                12.

                                6

                                2 1/2 dozen small do

                                at 7/6

                                .

                                18.

                                9

                                Silk Twist & other Trimmings

                                     2.

                                33.

                                16.

                                6

                                To making Marseilles Quilting Waistcoats

                                 1.

                                10.

                                3 yards Quilting

                                at 46/

                                6.

                                18.

                                1 1/2 yards Linnen

                                at 8/6

                                .

                                12.

                                9

                                Thread and Button Molds

                                     1.

                                10.

                                0.

                                9

                                £
                                43.

                                17.

                                3

                                State Money

                                1 yard Linnen for packing

                                     7.

                                     6

                                £
                                44.

                                4.

                                9

                        Received the above Forty four pounds four shillings and nine pence in full, by the hands of Charles Pettit,
                            February 24, 1781.
                        £ 44.4.9.

                            John Cottringer


Title: From George Washington to Elias Dayton, 7 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 7th 1781

                        I find by the Arrangement of the Jersey Brigade, which has just come to hand, that Colonel Shreve has retired
                            from the service—this makes your presence extremely necessary with the Troops; and the more so at this time as some
                            dispute about rank is said to exist between Lt Col. Barber & Lt Col. D’Hart—which, while there is no superior
                            Officer to both of them, may produce parties and cabals to the great detriment of the service.
                        Altho your health should not be perfectly established, I cannot but hope you will have so far recovered as to
                            be able to join and continue with the Brigade—I would not wish you to expose yourself or attempt impossibilities,
                            but I am certain you will be persuaded of the necessity of being with your Troops at such a critical & interesting
                            period—Even if you are but in a convalescent state, I should suppose you might obtain such comfortable accomodations
                            abroad, as would promote your recovery as effectually as at home.especially since you will find the Brigade at so small a
                            distance as Morris Town. I am Dear Sir With great esteem Your Most Obedt Hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Charles-René-Dominique Sochet Destouches, 7 February 1781
From: Destouches, Charles-René-Dominique Sochet
To: Washington, George

                            à Bord du Neptune Rade de Newport ce 7e fev. 1781

                        jay l’honneur d’informer votre Éxellence, que Mr Le Chevalier de La Luzerne, m’ayant
                            après le desir qu’aves Les Ètats de virginie et du marillans, d’avoir des forces maritimes En etat de détruire et dissipes
                            la flotille des pirattes qui désole Les Cotes de La Baye de chesapeak, ayant le plus grand desir dêtre utiles aux ètats únis
                            de l’amerique, jay sur le champs destiné un vaisseau et deux fregates pour remplir cet objet et celuy de transporter a la
                            ville D’yorc Les armes et habilements destine pour L’etat de virginie, qui se trouvoint à la providence par Evennement de
                            guerre.
                        Son Exellence, auries peut être deja eté informee que L’Escadre de l’amiral grève avèt
                            Essuié un Échec dans un coup de vent assès violent, qui fit courrir de grands risques a deux de mes fregates venent de
                            Boston—quatre vaisseaux anglais qui étoint sortis de gardener Baye, pour s’opposer à Leurs passages, ne
                            sen sont pas sy Bien tires L’un deux de 74 Canons à eté jettés a La Cote de Longues island, et un second Démate des tous
                            ses mâts. En sorte quil ne Reste dans gardener Bay que Sept vaisseaux Embosse sur une Ligne, Ce qui ren
                            nos forces plus Égales et Les mèt Dans Le cas de ne pas se diviser, tenant mon Escadre toujours preste à mettre sous veille
                            et proteger ainsy mon Éxpedition dans la Baye de chesapeack, contre Le St arnauld que je Regarderès,
                            comme Le plus Beau jour de ma vie, celuy de vous le livrer prisonnier de guerre.
                        jay l’honneur detre avec Respect De votre Exellence Le tres humble et tres òbeissant Serviteur

                            Destouches


Title: From George Washington to Frederick Frelinghuysen, 7 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Frelinghuysen, Frederick

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 7th 1781

                        I am much obliged to you, for your favor of the 3d Inst.
                        When the Commissioners reassemble on the 20th of Febry they will find the Jersey Troops removed to Morris,
                            which I flatter myself will facilitate the settlement, and answer several other very valuable purposes. With very great
                            regd & esteem I am Sir Yr Most Obed. Hble Servt


Title: To George Washington from Elbridge Gerry, 7 February 1781
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir,
                            Boston Feby 7. 1781

                        Having lately seen an intercepted Letter of the 20th of November last, written by Mrs Lovell &
                            published in Rivington Gazette, I wish to be indulged on making a few Observations on the Subject.
                        When General Knox was here, he informed me, that the paragraph of the Letter which respected a person’s being
                            "popular", was supposed by some to refer to your Excellency; but the Date of the Letter from whence Mrs Lovell’s quotation
                            was made, being a few Days after the general Election of this Commonwealth, must, I think, convince every attentive
                            Reader, that the paragraph related to a civil officer who was then elected. This will more fully appear to every person
                            acquainted with the Circumstances of the Election itself, the Popularity of the Officer mentioned, & the
                            Preference I publickly gave to his Competitor. If however I could conceive, that your Excellency veiwed the paragraph in
                            the Light first mentioned, I would desire Mrs Lovell, as I have not a Copy of my Letter to him, to send You the original;
                            but should be exceedingly mortified to find, that any Transaction of mine had produced in your Excellency’s Mind, a Doubt
                            of my Friendship towards You.
                        Mr Lovell promised in a former Letter to send me a curious Motion, made by a Gentleman lately from the Army,
                            whom I then supposed to be General Sullivan, but no Mention was made of the purport of the Motion, or that it respected
                            Your Excellency.
                        The paragraph on Mr Lovell’s Letter, subsequent to the Motion, is so enigmatical, that I have no Idea of his
                            Intention, whether favorable or not. indeed, I have no Reason to suppose the latter from his former Conduct, which has
                            ever appeared to me both friendly & respectful to your Excellency; but admitting that he has otherwise expressed
                            himself in the intercepted Letter, surely, the Direction of it to a person unacquainted with the Contents, should not infer
                            a Suspicion of his Want of Friendship for your Excellency. And here a question may arise, whether it is inconsistent with
                            Friendship to receive a confidential Letter containing Strictures on the Conduct of a Friend? the person in this Case who
                            receives the Letter, is in a delicate Situation; for by rejecting the Letter, he looses one Friend, by receiving it, may
                            disaffect the other. Is it not the most eligible Mode of Conduct, under such unfortunate Circumstances, to hear
                            confidentially what one Friend has to say against another, & to endeavour to cure the Animosity by a candid
                            Consideration & State of the Facts? I must confess, that this has been my practice, & it has frequently
                            afforded me an opportunity of restoring the Confidence of contending parties. if nevertheless, any Person however friendly
                            to me, was publickly to reflect on the Character of another Friend, I should think it my Duty as publickly to resent such
                            Conduct.
                        I have been thus explicit on the Subject because I should be exceedingly unhappy to find, that the
                            intercepted Letter had produced in your Excellency’s Mind any unfavorable Sentiments respecting myself; but should this be
                            the Case, I shall still continue to enjoy that disinterested Friendship & Respect, and that affectionate Regard,
                            which I have ever entertained for your Excellency. I remain sir with every Sentiment of Friendship & Esteem your
                            most obd. & very hume Sert

                            E. Gerry


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 7 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 7th 1781

                        You will be pleased to Order Captain Welles, or Officer Commanding the Water Guard to detach a Subaltern and
                            25 Men to releive the Garrison of the Block House at Dobbs Ferry. I am Sir Your Most Obedient & Humble Servant

                            Go: Washington


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

                            Dear General,
                            West Point, Feb. 7. 1781

                        The enclosed was handed me by Lt Col. Comdr Sprout. From what I can learn, the case is briefly this: Capt.
                            Smart was a Captain and Paymaster in the 13. Massachusetts regiment—was in a bad state of health, and desired on that
                            account to quit the service. He is so good an Officer, that the regiment were loth to lose him, and advised him to get
                            leave to retire for the recovery of his health, which he did—but has not been so fortunate as to recover it, and is
                            determined to resign his Commission—he is not able to come on to settle his accounts; and by reason of his not doing it,
                            and getting a discharge, the promotion of a Captain is prevented; which gives uneasiness to those whose right it is to
                            receive promotion. To avoid this inconvenience, and to prevent the continuation or increase of uneasiness, Lt Colonel
                            Sprout and Major Porter will give bonds for the settlement of Captain Smart’s accounts; if, on that condition, it should
                            be thought admissible to discharge him previous to the settlement of his accounts, which is submitted for your
                            Excellency’s determination.
                        Enclosed is also a petition from Serjeant James Larvey of Colonel Putnam’s regiment, who has for two or
                            three years past been Coxswain of the Commanding Officer’s barge at this Post, & was compelled by Arnold to convey
                            him on board the Vulture sloop of War at the time that perfidious officer went to the Enemy. The conduct of Larvey at that
                            time is fully known to your Excellency. He informs me that in the month of November last he presented a petition to you,
                            and had incouragement from one of your Aids de Camp that something should be done for him, either an indulgence to serve
                            in the Horse for a certain term, or some other consideration. He now wishes that he may be allowed to procure a man to
                            take his place, or, as the procurement of a man would require all the earnings of his almost six years service, would
                            serve chearfully for the term of one year longer, if at the expiration of that time, you would please to grant him a
                            discharge. As he is a man of strict integrity the most unshaken bravery and warm attachment to his country, I am compelled
                            to lay his petition before your Excellency for such decision as you may think proper.
                        There are many vacancies for Ensigns in the Massachusetts line; are they to be filled? And in such case, What
                            mode is to be observed in doing it?
                        There are a considerable number of Prisoners in the Provost at Fishkill. If we are to judge from past
                            experience, it is not a place of the greatest Security; and from the nature of the adjacent country, and nearness of the
                            Enemy’s Posts, Prisoners who at any time escape, are rarely retaken. It therefore seems expedient, if any advantage is to
                            be derived from the prisoners taken, if sent to that place, that they be either soon exchanged, removed farther, or a
                            better place provided. I have frequently given orders for the repair of the Provost, and for the better securing it; but
                            have been repeatedly informed that the construction of it forbids its being rendered properly secure. I have the honor to
                            be with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient Servant

                            W. Heath

                     Enclosure

                                West Point Jany 6th A.D. 1781

                            To the Honorable Major General Heath Commanding the Garrison at West Point, and its Dependencies The
                                Petition of James Lurvey Humbly Sheweth.
                            That, your Honor’s petitioner has spent almost Six Years of the Bloom of his life in the service of his
                                Country, and now stands engaged for the War in Colonel Putnam’s Regiment.
                            That your petitioner when he was prisoner with the Enemy thro the perfidious Conduct of the late General
                                Arnold was flattered (by that fell Officer) to stay in the Enemies Service by the promise of a Commission, and other
                                Offers, advantageous enough perhaps to have staggered some Resolutions; but which your petitioner thro a sense of the
                                Integrity he owed his Country rejected with the highest disdain.
                            That your petitioner has always endeavoured faithfully to fulfil the duties of his Station; but as his
                                Circumstances and Connections are such that it will be highly detrimental for him to stay any longer in the service.
                            He therefore would humbly solicit your honor to permit a Good able bodied American Born Man (whom he will
                                procure at his own expence) to be accepted in his Room, and grant your petitioner a Discharge from the Service, as he
                                doubts not he could be very serviceable to his Country in a Domestic Life. And your Petitioner as in duty bound will
                                ever Pray.

                                James Lurvey

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                West Point Feb. 5th 1781

                            Capt. Smart of the late 13th Mass. Regt sollicited for a discharge fom the Army last spring on account of
                                his ill state of health but was prevail’d upon by some gentlemen who were loth to loose him to service, being a good
                                Officer, to retire a while for the recovery of his health, & on the recruiting service, he has often since,
                                being unable to come to Camp sollicited a discharge, the want of the Certificates required has been the only obstacle.
                                he is unalterably determined to leave the Army, tho very disagreable to him on every other account, but his inability
                                to endure the fatigues of camp. his health at present will not admit his coming to Camp to settle his
                                accounts—Officers are very uneasy at the delay of his discharge—he is very anxious for it—as he is blamed for not
                                obtaining it.
                            Under these circumstances we wish if possible he may be discharged. we are well persuaded of the
                                regularity of his accounts, & are willing to be answerable they shall be satisfactorily settled whenever he
                                shall be calld upon. we are Sir with due respect your most Obedt & very Humle Servts

                                Er Sprout Lt Col. Comdt
                                John Porter–Major
                                late 13th Regt