Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 7 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 7th 1779

I have received your two favours of yesterdays date—one of them with infinite concern. There is nothing, which has happened in the course of the war that has given me so much pain as the remonstrance you mention from the officers of the 1st Jersey Regiment. I cannot but consider it as a hasty and imprudent step, which on more cool consideration they will themselves condemn. I am very sensible of the inconveniences under which the officers of the army labor and I hope they do me the justice to believe, that my endeavours to procure them relief are incessant. There is however more difficulty in satisfying their wishes than perhaps they are aware—our resources have been hitherto very limited—the situation of our money is no small embarrassment, for which, though there are remedies, they cannot be the work of a moment—Government is not insensible of the merits and sacrifices of the officers, nor, I am persuaded, unwilling to make a compensation; but it is a truth, of which a little observation must convince us, that it is very much straitened in the means. Great allowances ought to be made on this account for any delay and seeming backwardness which may appear. Some of the States indeed have done as generously as it is at this juncture in their power, and if others have been less expeditious it ought to be ascribed to some peculiar cause which a little time aided by example will remove. The patience and perseverance of the army have been under every disadvantage such as to do them the highest honor both at home and abroad; and have inspired me with an unlimited confidence in their virtue, which has consoled me admidst every perplexity and reverse of fortune, to which our affairs in a struggle of this nature were necessarily exposed. Now that we have made so great a progress to the attainment of the end we have in view—so that we cannot fail without a most shameful desertion of our own inter[e]sts; any thing like a change of conduct would imply a very unhappy change of principles and a forgetfulness as well of what we owe to ourselves as to our country—Did I suppose it possible this could be the case even in a single regiment of the army, I should be mortified and chagrined beyond expression—I should feel it as a wound given to my own honor, which I consider as embarked with that of the army at large. But this I believe to be impossible—Any corps that was about to set an example of the kind would weigh well the consequences and no officer of common discernment & sensibility would hazard them. If they should stand alone in it, independent of other consequences, what would be their feelings on reflecting that they had held themselves out to the world in a point of light inferior to the rest of the army? Or if their example should be followed & become general how would they console themselves for having been the foremost in bringing ruin and disgrace upon their country? They would remember that the army would share a double portion of the general infamy and distress; and that the character of an American officer would become as despicable as it is now glorious.
I confess the appearances in the present instance are disagreeable; but I am convinced they seem to mean more than they really do—The Jersey officers have not been outdone by any others in the qualities either of citizens or soldiers; and I am confident no part of them would seriously intend any thing that would be a stain to their former reputation—The Gentlemen cannot be in earnest, they have only reasonned wrong about the means of obtaining a good end, and on reconsideration I hope and flatter myself they will renounce what must appear improper. At the opening of a campaign, when under marching orders for an important service, their own honor, duty to the public and to themselves—a regard to military propriety will not suffer them to persist in a measure which would be a violation of them all—It will even wound their delicacy cooly to reflect that they have hazarded a step which has an air of dictating terms to their country, by taking advantage of the necessity of the moment. The declaration they have made to the state at so critical a time, that unless they obtain relief in the short period of three days they must be considered out of the service has very much this aspect; and the seeming relaxation of continuing till the state can have a reasonable time to provide other officers will be thought only a superficial veil.
I am now to request that you will convey my sentiments to the Gentlemen concerned and endeavour to make them sensible that they are in an error. The service for which the Regiment was intended will not admit of delay; it must at all events march on Monday morning in the first place to this camp and further directions will be given when it arrives—I am sure I shall not be mistaken in expecting a prompt and chearful obedience. I am Sir Your most Obedt servt.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Richard Parker, 7 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Parker, Richard

Sir
[Middlebrook, 7 May 1779]

You will proceed immediately with the Officers mentioned in the List herewith delivered to Philadelphia. As soon as you arrive there, you will wait upon the Honorable Richard Henry Lee—Henry Laurens and Thomas Burke Esqrs Members of Congress and inform them, that you are going with sundry Other Officers to take charge of the Virginia Levies—and inquire whether they have any particular commands for you. After you have done this, if you do not receive contrary orders from them, You will proceed with the Officers by the most expeditious route to Alexandria or to Fredericksburg as circumstances may require, at one of which places it is expected, you will meet Brigadier General Scott, under whose command you will put yourselves and receive his Instructions for your future conduct. If General Scott should not be at either of these places, of which you will probably hear when you reach the first, you will advise him of your arrival in Virginia by Express, and request his directions.
As there are Other Officers to be employed in the service on which you are going, besides those who proceed immediately with you from hence, as you will perceive by the List; It will be expedient for you to send One or two Officers from Philadelphia by the way of Lancaster—York—Frederick Town and Winchester, that they may fall in with them in case they should be returning on this route to Camp—and notify them of the command to which they are appointed and the place at which they are to assemble.
The baggage of All the Officers mentioned in the List, ought to be carried, and for this purpose—Waggons must be provided; but if these cannot be immediately ready—You will not wait, but will proceed, leaving One or Two Officers to follow with them, with such directions as you may deem necessary.
The necessary Expences of the party to the place or places of Rendezvous for the Levies, will be allowed and paid by the public—and to this end exact and regular accounts of the same should be kept. The prudence and discretion of the Officers will naturally suggest the propriety and necessity of the strictest œconomy and therefore I need not add on this head.
As the service requires that the Levies should be organized and officered as soon as possible—I am convinced that this consideration will prompt the whole to the greatest dispatch. My best wishes attend you All. Given at Head Qrs at Middle Brook this 7th day of May 1779.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 7 May 1779
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Camp Reading [Conn.] 7th May 1779

I am now taking the earliest opportunity to acquaint your Excellency with my arrival in Camp to resume the command of my Division.
In the course of my tour to the Eastward, I was at Hartford, during the setting of the Assembly, who supposed from a Resolution of Congress, which then lay before them, that all the men raised for the publick service in this State, under whatever description, whether Artillery, Dragoons, or Artificers, were to be consider’d & credited as part of the eight Battalions of Infantry, which were assign’d as a quota to this State for the year 1779.
This sentiment I opposed, at the time that the Return of the number wanting to compleat the eight Battalions to the present establishment, was laid before them—However instead of raising fourteen hundred men, the deficiency of the two Brigades under my command, they have made such deductions, as leave by their calculation but six hundred men to be raised & these are to be procured by voluntary inlistment—In consequence of this resolution, very few recruits I fear will be brought into the field, unless your Excellency should think proper to make some representations upon the subject to the Assembly, who will set the next week at Hartford, & this I presume will be of more efficacy, than any other means whatever.
From the Letters, which passed on my absence, & which I have seen since my return I find there was reason to apprehend, the Enemy would have been in motion before this time, & that upon those appearances, it was judged necessary, for all the troops which were under my command, to march for the defence of the posts on the North River, except the first Connecticut Brigade, which is now held in readiness for that purpose.
Altho I do not in the least doubt the necessity & propriety of these measures, or wish to be inform’d of the secrets of the ensuing Campaign, yet it is exceedingly natural for me to have some little curiosity about my future destination, whether I am to command those Troops which have been with me the winter past, ⟨or⟩ in some new Department, or whether I am to remain to guard the Huts at this Place—For after Genl McDougall is reinforced with the whole of my Division (which will augment his, to a very respectable command) nothing is said concerning the part which I am to act—However disagreeable the situation may be, I know there is a delicacy in thinking & treating on a subject⟨,⟩ where ones self is so intimately concerned beyond the limits of which, I hope I shall not be accused of passing.
I am unhappy to inform your Excellency that upon the removal of our Detachments from the Sea Coast, the Enemy have exhibited some specimens of enterprize a little unusual for them; A few nights since a small party, from a Whale Boat landed at Fairfield, surprized & carried off Brigadier Genl Silliman of the militia & his Son Majr Silliman—Last night another party landed at Middlesex near Norwalk, in quest of one Capt. Selleck, who happen’d to be absent; But a Mr Webb late a Lieut. in the Train, two of the Inhabitants, and the ingenious Doctor Bushnell fell into their hands—As the last mentioned Gentleman, who was there in the prosecution of his unremitted endeavours to destroy the Enemies shipping, is personally known to very few People, it is possible he may not be discover’d by his real name or character & may be consider’d of less consequence than he actually is.
I am this instant informed that about fifty of the Enemys Plunderers landed at Selleck’s Farms this morning, & carried off every man his Sheep, that is to say 50 before the Militia could be collected to oppose them, These incursions I expect will be frequent & troublesome, but I hope not decisive or very important. I am Your Excellency’s most obedient & very humble Ser⟨vt⟩
Israel Putnam

P.S. I design’d to have suggested to your Excellency the difficulties I am appprehensive will arise in procuring forage for the Baggage Horses & Teams⟨.⟩ The grass is by no means sufficient to support them—And dry forage will be furnish’d with great difficulty, & I fear in very small quantities.


Title: From George Washington to John Rutledge, 7 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Rutledge, John

Sir,
Camp at Middle brook New Jersey 7th May 1779

Colonel Parker who will have the honr of presenting this Letter to your Excellency is a volunteer in the Service of the Southern States, and goes with many others from this Camp to take charge of & march the recruits lately raised in the State of Virginia (for its Regiments now here) to Georgia. In Colo. Parker and several others who voluntarily offer themselves for this Service your Excellency will, I trust, experience good Officers. Such as come under this discription will, I am perswaded, attract your notice & protection.
The Brigade (for I presume there will be Men enough to form three compleat Regiments) will be commanded I expect by Brigr Genl Scott who is now in Virginia and who I can venture to recommend as a good Man, & a brave & intelligent Officer, I hope his health will permit him to join you. I am with great esteem & respect, Yr Most Obedt Hble Servt
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Oliver Spencer, 7 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Spencer, Oliver

Sir
Hd Qrs Middlebrook 7th May 1779.

I have been favored with yours of the 30th Ultimo, and also that of the 3d instant, yesterday.
I am sorry your situation has so long prevented your entering on the repairs of the road. However you will now set about it, with such tools as can be procured. My instructions on this subject were given to Col. Malcom in general terms; to open the road leading thro’ The great Swamp to Wyoming and to make it fit for the pasage of carriages &c. &c. That which was most direct and easiest repaired I thought would naturally occur on the occasion, and could be best learned from the inhabitants, and this seemed to render a particular discription unnecessary.
The road which is in some degree opened, and appears to me the most eligible leads from Easton thro’ the Wind gap in Pequille mountain—passes Levers’s house and Fort Penn to where one Jno. Lardner lives at the foot of Packano hill—It is then to be continued as near as the ground will admit on the road formerly in part opened by the New England people to Wyoming on Susquehannah.
You will compare these outlines with the accounts of such of the inhabitants as are well informed in this matter, and should any deviations be expedient you will adopt them.
If Lt. Hallet will forward thro’ you his commission, and the proper testimonials of his having settled his accounts with the regiment or the public, his resignation will be received.
The adjutant to your Regiment shall be appointed by a general order And as soon as I am favored with a certificate from the officers who made the nomination of the pay-master, the like shall also be done. This is the customary procedure and is the foundation of such appointments.
In future you will receive your orders from Majr Genl Sullivan & to him make your reports as he will have the general direction of matters in that quarter. I am sir Y[o]ur
G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Captain Jonathan Forman, 8 May 1779
From: Forman, Jonathan
To: Washington, George

Sir
Elizth town [N.J.] May 8th 1779

General Maxwell has communicated to us the substance of a letter from your Excellency of yesterday. It has made us very unhappy that any act of ours should give your Excellency pain; but we trust when you are made acquainted with the circumstances that induced us to take these measures, that so far from censuring us, you will app[r]ove our conduct—The reasons that we have not heretofore made your Excellency acquainted with our peculiar hard circumstances were, that it would be giving you uneasiness, without answering any valuable end, for we are truly sensible of the incessant pains your Excellency has taken for the benefit of the Army. You are pleased to say, that you cannot but consider the late step of the Officers hasty and imprudent, That it was not hasty we will readily prove, and whether imprudent, future events in some measure must determine, tho’ dire necessity, with us, admitted no Alternitive. It will be proper to inform your Excellency that the Officers of the Jersey Brigade have repeatedly, and at almost every session of the Assembly since January 1777 Memorialized them upon the necessities of the Troops and the reasonableness of their makeing them some compensation for their services, that the Members of the Legislature (individually) Always assured the Gentlemen who waited on them with the memorials, that something very Generous should be done for the Troops; but we have the misfortune to inform your Excellency that not a single resolve was ever entered in their Minutes in our favor, Untill within two weeks—So long ago as last winter we informed the Council, of our determination to leave the service, unless we were properly provided for, and from them we again receivd Assurances that provision should be made for us—At the begining of the present session a Representation was sent to them signd by every Officer of the Brigade (a Copy of which we have inclosed) and so far were they from complying withe the reasonable requisitions contained in it, that they have referred it to Congress—Thus are we circumstanced; we have lost all confidence in our Legislature, Reason and Experience forbid that we should, have any. Few of us have private fortunes, many have families, who already are suffering every thing that can be received from an ungratefull Country, are we then to submit to all the inconveniencies, fatigue and Danger of a Camp life, while our Wives and our Children are perishing for want of common necessaries at home, and that without the most distant prospect of reward, (for our pay is now only nominal)—We are sensible that your Excellency cannot wish nor desire it from us—We are sorry that you should imagine we meant to disobey Orders, it was and still is our determination to march with our Regiment and do the duty of Officers until the Legislature should have a reasonable time to Appoint others, but no longer. We beg leave to Assure your Excellency, that we have the highest sense of your Ability and Virtues, that executing your orders has ever given us pleasure, that we love the service, and we love our Country; but when that Country gets so lost to virtue and justice as to forget to support its servants, it then becomes their duty to retire from the service. We are your Excellencys Obedient, hume servants
        In behalf of the Officers ofthe first RegimentJona. Forman 1st Capt. the Regt


Title: To George Washington from Edward Hand, 8 May 1779
From: Hand, Edward
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Edward Hand, 8 May 1779. GW wrote to Hand on 31 May acknowledging receipt of a letter from Hand of 8 May.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 8 May 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General,
Head Quarters Boston May 8. 1779

I have been honor’d with the receipt of yours of the 22d Ultimo.
I never received any List of the Officers names under the Convention of Saratoga on their arrival at Cambridge, as taken at the Convention, but do myself the honor to enclose Copy of their Names and ranks as Subscribed to a parole Soon after their arrival at Cambridge.
I take the Liberty to enclose Extract of a Letter lately received from Major General Gates, which exhibits the Situation of the Army at Providence in a most scanty condition as to Bread and indeed this is almost universally the case in this quarter. Upon receipt of the Letter I immediately applied to Council, obtained a press Warrant to take up Teams, & forwarded on near 300 Barrels of Flour, which is the greatest part of the quantity in the Magazines in this State. Should the Enemy form an Enterprize this way and the assembling of a body of Militia become necessary, the want of Bread would oblige them, almost as soon as Assembled, to disperse, unless Supplies which we have not now, should arrive. A quantity of Flour has been expected at Springfield from Albany ever Since the last Fall, but none has arrived, unless within a few days past.
The greatest possible difficulty subsists in procuring Teams to forward on the large quantities of Lead Cloathing &c. which are called for. The depreciation of the Currency, and the busy Season prompt the Teamsters to ask from 24 to 30/ ⅌ Mile for Transportation, and to refuse to undertake for less. This, is so enormous that I thought it my duty to request the interposition of the Council, who have issued an order to take up One hundred Teams.
Major Measam informed me yesterday that nearly as many more are wanted immediately. I have just solicited the further assistance of Council. hope I Shall Succeed, as I have ever found them carefully ready to exert themselves on every pressing occasion, but the present busy Season will be an embarrassment.
Major Measam also informs me that he is Afraid there will be difficulty and delay in getting the Cloathing forward after it reaches Springfield, as Colonel Smith D.Q.M. Genl there is destitute of money. This I am sorry to hear, but the remedy is not in my power. No exertions of mine shall be wanting in forwarding the Stores to Springfield. further I cannot engage. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedt Servt
W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 8 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Dr Sir
Head Quarters Middlebrook 8th May 1779.

I had the pleasure of your letter of the 27th ultimo, and should have acknowleged it sooner, had I not been pressed with a variety of business.
When you receive the commands of Congress, I shall be happy to see you at Camp, and am Dr sir Your most obedient and hble servt.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 8 May 1779
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
[8 May 1779]

I had the pleasure to receive Your Excellencys Favour of Yesterday and the day before with all the inclosures which I shall carefully note: The first was my principal object; and which I have laid before the Officers agreeable to Your Excellencys Orders.
They received it with the greatest attention and concern, well knowing how much it must affect Your Excellency; however they may detest the injustice of the State.
They beg’d I might by Express or otherwise inclose You their sentiments on the occasion, as soon as possable, and they do flatter them selves that notwithstanding appearances may be much against them at present, You will on hearing their reasons continue Your former good opinion of them; when You know the whole reason for their conduct.
Agreeable to their request I send You the inclosed and am Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant
Wm Maxwell
Coll Mead’s Favour of this date I have this Moment received I have heard the same report about General Clinton going with the Fleet and will endeavour to have the truth of it as soon as possable.
W.M.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Alexander McDougall, 8 May 1779
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
Head Quarters Pecks Kill [N.Y.] 8th May 1779.

I received your Excellency’s Favor, of the 6th Instant, in due time. General Huntingtons Brigade arrived at Crompond the same Day. I conclude General Parsons has informed you the reason of his not sending on the other. Colo. Cilley’s Regiment, was to have marched to Day; but the Wind blowing hard down the River, and no Teams to be had, to remove even the little Baggage they carry prevented it. But they will move early to morrow, for New-Windsor. Every Arrangement in my power, is made to facilitate their march. But the Army is without Legs ’till Grass. We can but with the utmost difficulty, get Provision brought on, to Supply the Troops; and often in danger of wanting from that impediment. The inclosed extract, of a Letter from Major Hull, will shew you, the uncertainty We are in, about the late Embarkation. If one has been made, it must be principally from Long-Island Staten Island and the City. The Troops about the Bridge and Fort Washington remain the same as in Winter. The 42d has left its Cantonment and its Judged by some of the Deserters that its one of those of which have Embarked with the 7th and Irish Volunteers. The Works erecting on Laurel Hill, are large and prosecuted with great vigor. The Ground North and East of that, and Fort-Washington for some distance, is cleared of the Timber, even to the smallest Bush, and made intirely bald. The Enemy intend cutting a Canal on the lowest Ground, next to those heights, to let the North River pass into Harlem-River. Those who are well acquainted with the Soil, inform me it can be easily accomplished. The object of this Work is to oblige us to cross the Canal, under the Fire of his Artillery, if We attempt a landing from this Quarter; And put it out of our power, to derive any advantage from ours in landing on York Island from West-Chester, which We now have, from the heights of Kings-Bridge. These are precautions, which were not thought of, when his Grand Army was at a distance in Pennsylvania, and I think indicate, an intention to draw off a great number of the Troops for distant opperations. Since this was began, I have been honored with your Favor of the 6th. The New-Hampshire Regiment, which is to march, was ordered to be supplied with Shirts Shoes and a pair of over Halls, as I concluded it was intended for remote Service, and 2182 Dollars which I borrowed for them. They were ordered an additional pair of Over Halls, in consequence of your Letter. Lieut. Colo. Badlam who commands at Fish-Kill informs me, New-Levies or Recruits were expected in there Yesterday from this State. I have received no Orders concerning them I wish to be favor’d with directions how to dispose of them. I am with great truth and regard Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and Most Humble Servant
        Alexr McDougall
P:S: Your Excellency has omitted to give me directions on the Subject of Resignations.


Title: From George Washington to Gouverneur Morris, 8 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Gouverneur

Hd Qrs Middlebrook May 8th 79

Monsieur Gerard did me the honor to deliver me your favour of the 26th—I shall always be obliged to you, my dear Sir, for a free communication of your sentiments on whatsoever subject may occur.
The objects of your letter were important. Mr Gerard I dare say has made it unnecessary for me to recapitulate what passed between him and myself and has informed you of the alternative I proposed for improving the important event announced by him. From what he told me it appears that sufficient assurances cannot be given of points, which are essential to justify the great undertaking you had in view at the expence of other operations very interesting—And indeed though I was desirous to convince The Minister that we are willing to make every effort in our power for striking a decisive blow; yet my judgment rather inclined to the second plan as promising more certain success without putting so much to the hazard. The relief of the S[outhern] S[tates] appears to me an object of the greatest magnitude and what may lead to still more important advantages—I feel infinite anxiety on their account—their internal weakness—dissaffection—the want of energy the general languor that has seized the people at large makes me apprehend the most serious consequences—it would seem too, as if the enemy meant to transfer the principal weight of the war that way. If it be true that a large detachment has lately sailed from New York and that Sir Henry Clinton is gone with it, in which several accounts I have received agree, (though I do not credit the latter) and these should be destined for [t]he Southward, as is most probable, there can be little doubt that this is the present plan. Charles Town it is likely will feel the next stroke—This if it succeeds will leave the enemy in full possession of Georgia by obliging us to collect our forces for the defence of South Carolina, and will consequently open new sources for men and supplies and prepare the way for a further career. The climate, I am aware is an obstacle but perhaps not so great as is imagined and when we consider the difference in our respective means of preserving health it may possibly be found more adverse to our troops than to theirs—In this critical situation, I hardly know any resource we have unless it be in the event expected; and the supposed reinforcement now on its way, for want of a competent land force on our part may make even this dependence precarious—If it should fail, our affairs which have a very sickly aspect in many respects will receive a stroke they are little able to bear.
As a variety of accidents may disappoint our hopes here, it is indispensable we should make every exertion on our part to check the enemy⟨’s⟩ progress. This cannot be done to effect, if our reliance is solely or principally on militia; for a force continually fluctuating is incapable of any material effort. The states concerned ought by all means to endeavour to draw out men for a length of time; a smaller number on this plan would answer their purpose better; a great deal of expence would be avoided and agriculture would be much less impeded. It is to be lamented that the remoteness and weakness of this army, would make it folly to attempt to send any succour from this quarter. Perhaps for want of knowing the true state of our foreign expectations and prospects of finance, I may be led to contemplate the gloomy side of things—But I confess they appear to me to be in a very disagreeable train—The rapid decay of our currency, the extinction of public spirit—the increasing rapacity of the times, the want of harmony in our councils—the declining zeal of the people—the discontents and distresses of the officers of the army—and I may add the prevailing security and insensibility to danger—are symptoms in my eye of a most alarming nature—If the Enemy have it in their power to press us hard this campaign I know not what may be the consequence. Our army as it now stands is little more than the skeleton of an army—& I hear of no steps that are taking to give it strength and substance—I hope there may not be great mistakes on this head, and that our abilities in general are not overrated—The applications for succour are numerous; but no pains are taken to put it in my power to afford them. When I endeavour to draw together the Continental troops for the most essential purposes I am embarrassed with complaints of the exhausted defenceless situation of particular states and find myself obliged either to resist solicitations made in such a manner and with such a degree of emphasis as scarcely to leave me a choice, or to sacrifice the most obvious principles of military propriety and risk the general safety.
I shall conclude by observing, that it is well worthy the ambition of a patriot Statesman at this juncture to endeavour to pacify party differences—to give fresh vigor to the springs of government—to inspire the people with confidence—and above all to restore the credit of our currency. With very great regard I am Dr Sir Your most Obed. servant.


Title: To George Washington from Pennsylvania Continental Captains, 8 May 1779
From: Pennsylvania Continental Captains
To: Washington, George

May it please yourExcellency
Camp Millstone [N.J.] May 8th 1779

Your Memorialists, conceiving themselves extreamly aggrieved, by the appointment of Captain Joseph Prowell to a Majority in the Pennsylvania Line, are at length compell’d reluctantly to disturb your Excellency with their Complaint; and intreat your patience while they state some objections and make a few remarks on his pretensions.
We first beg leave to observe, that annexing two old Regiments (Viz. Hartleys & Pattons) with their Officers, to the Line of our State, greatly retards the Promotion of the junior Captains of that Line; but as they doubted not Congress had adopted that measure from wise & good motives, they were induced chearfully to acquiesce, and give up private considerations to the Public good. But Captain Prowells appointment (as we humbly conceive) injures many Captains whose Commissions are of prior date to his earliest claim; and by becoming a Precedent, aggrieves all the Junior Officers; as in that case none can be sure of their Rank, or confidently expect that preferment which is the Birthright, and should be the reward of the Veteran.
As we supposed his appointment had originated in the President & Council of the State, we some weeks since address’d that Honble Body: His Excellency the President wrote to Genl St Clair on the subject, and inclosed Mr Prowells pretentions; a Copy of which we have obtained, and beg leave to present herewith to your Excellency. Our further strictures on them shall be as concise as possible.
Captain Prowells first claim, as having the Rank of Captain in October 1776, (tho’ junior to many in this Line,) arises from having commanded at that time a Company of Artificers. We humbly submit to your Excellency, whether by the same parity of reason, any Officer in the Waggon Masters department, obtaining an appointment in a new rais’d Regiment, might not with equal propriety, claim precedency in the Army, from his former Rank.
We presume his pretension of having “officiated as Major of Colonel Pattons Regiment” (without any appointment) “from the 1st of January 1778,” is a weak argument in favour of his claim; as he never did a tour of duty in the Line of the Army agreeable to that Rank, which he asserts “he had so long held,” and from which he considers it as an injury to be “degraded.” But Sir we must yet doubt the justice of that assertion, knowing that Captain Grubb was Senior Captain in that Regiment, was with the Army in the Action of Monmouth, and did not resign till some time after. This we mention as an Instance of Captain Prowells misrepresentation of Facts.
He seems anxious to have it observ’d particularly, that his succession (he does not say his appointment) to the Majority in question, was previous, not subsequent, to the time of annexing the Regiment &c.—but whether the propriety of that succession exists, and how he was “clearly intitled to the promotion by the resolve of Congress of the 24th of November last,” would (we humbly conceive) be a proper Subject of enquiry.
relying with Perfect Confidence on your Justice & impartiality we fly to your Excellency for redress. intreating you will be pleased to order a Board of Officers to inquire into the merits of Mr Powells Claims & pretensions, as well as into our objections against his promotion; or grant us such other redress as to your Excellency may seem meet. We are Sir With the utmost respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient Humble servts


Title: To George Washington from the Pennsylvania Supreme Executive Council, 8 May 1779
From: Pennsylvania Supreme Executive Council
To: Washington, George

In CouncilSir
Philadelphia May 8th 1779

Your favour of the twenty seventh ultimo has been considered by us with that attention and respect justly due to it. And we are extremely sorry to find that the expressions of solicitude for the safety of our distressed inhabitants on the frontiers and our anxiety to prevent future calamities should have given you pain.
We hoped we had expressed ourselves with so much caution on this occasion that every unacceptable Idea would have been fully excluded. Be assured sir our intentions were only to convey to you the sense of the people in those afflicted counties presuming that it would be much more agreeable to receive it in this way, than from news papers formal applications or painful remonstrances. And we did it the more readily as we ever understood it to be a distinguishing part of your Excellencys Character to seek for every sort of information and more especially that which might prevent evils and guard against dissatisfactions whether well or ill founded. If the manner of doing it did not correspond with our intentions we would wish you to ascribe it to any other cause than a diminution of that confidence and attachment of which we have given professions not less sincere than they were publick. And retaining still the same opinion of your Excellencys candour and Judgment we submit it whether the expectations of a state for security and protection are not naturally limitted or extended according to its own exertions and the force it furnished to the Common Cause. If its supplies of men and other military means are ample, and the burthen heavy, expectations will rise proportionately. If we are to judge of the contingent furnished to the Continental army from this state by the applications made to us to partake of the bounties and indulgencies lately given by this state to the troops, we must hold a respectable place in the military line. We have twelve regiments, including artillery on the line equally filled with any other states, and much superior to some. We have a greater proportion raised for the War (as we are informed) than any other. Besides this a regiment of horse—the invalid corps or at least two thirds of it—the Provost corps and the half of the german battalion all have put in their claims making in the whole a very considerable body. We do not say any thing of the artificers, manufacturers &ca or the transportation afforded by this state, tho forming a very considerable part of the publick burthens, and being the principal dependance of the army: They naturally give the people of the state a sense of their importance, and would (if the occasion should happen) make them feel very sensibly any hardships which might arise from an unequal distribution of protection. That we have been by far the greatest sufferers on the frontiers, have had more people killed, and more country desolated, we presume cannot be doubted.
If Virginia and the other states have suffered by the ravages of the Indians in any proportion to this state, the particulars have never reached us, and as the Idea of our receiving any protection from A[r]mands and Pulaskies Corps must have arisen from some misapprehension or mistake, we beg leave to assure your Excellency, that we never derived the least benefit from them but on the other hand are still smarting under their abuse and desolation, the complaints of which were suppressed and complainants perswaded to bear with patience their losses and sufferings.
We apprehend that were the affairs of the frontiers of Pennsylvania more fully known to your Excellency it would in some degree remove the Idea of our south Western or Northern frontier having been so effectually covering the waste of Country and evacuation of large and flourishing settlements whose inhabitants, as General McIntosh and others assure us are going down the Ohio daily to settle elsewhere, give but too melancholy a proof of their exposed and dangerous situation, and that they think their new settlements afford a better prospect of safety. But as disscussions of this nature seem to give pain, where we would always wish to excite contrary sensations, we shall avoid them in future and endeavour to remove from the minds of the sufferers, any doubts and apprehensions which being the natural effects of ruin and distress, will claim our pity however groundless at this distance they may appear.
We heartily wish success to the proposed expedition and shall do every thing in our power to promote it. It is our interest so to do, for if it should terminate as the one last year did from Fort Pitt, our Western Country will be in a most deplorable situation, and the state little short of ruin. When we therefore suggested an Idea, that it might be laid aside we did not suppose that it would be so, but regarding the possibility of such an event from the difficulty of combining all the circumstances necessary to its progress, and success we thought it our duty to lay our expectations and wishes before you, that we might avoid any complaint in future from the inhabitants of that country. And we shall esteem ourselves peculiarly unfortunate, if the mode of doing it should in any degree have counteracted our own wishes and intentions.
We have kept from publick View most of the accounts we have received—but that your Excellency may form a more just judgment of our situation, we have selected a few from men of the most note in the Country which have just come to hand. When you have considered them, and also that we have a discontented party in the state seeking every occasion to disparage the government, we flatter ourselves you will allow for our feelings, and anxieties; To us the inhabitants look in the first instance, and upon us the Odium and blame will fall, if after holding out hopes of safety to them they should find themselves disappointed, tho’ from causes unforeseen and unavoidable.
Your Excellency has observed “that if the resources of the states cannot furnish a competent force for compleat defence they will be more just than to expect from the army protection in every point.” We feel the Justice of the remark, but our expectations go no farther than protection in proportion to the troops furnished by the state to the army: If from seeing the regiments of Pennsylvania drawn off on both sides and forming a part of the protection of New York, and Virginia while no troops from any other state formed a part of ours an undue inference has been drawn of our strength and numbers, We readily admit it to be unjust and groundless, for the circumstance alone can by no means warrant it: but whatever the resources of all the states collectively may be, each will we conceive, expect an attention individually according to its resources and the exertions of them. We are perfectly satisfied with the motives which have induced your Excellency to lay aside the Co-operation of the troops from Fort Pitt, nor should we have troubled you with any observations thereupon, if it had not been suggested to us that in this case a smaller garrison might perhaps be sufficient for Fort Pitt, and some of Broadheads people without inconvenience spared to Westmoreland so as to make the militia there less necessary; but as you seem to think any diminution of the strength at that post hazardous, we readily acquiesce.
The transaction respecting General Arnold is put upon a footing so satisfactory to us, that we regret the misconception which seems to have taken place of our Ideas upon it. It is apparent to us that your Excellency has not understood us. We think there is a material difference between a publick body exhibiting charges against a man, to his superior Officers, or authority, and expressing their sense of his conduct and assigning their reasons for it. In the first case they virtually offer themselves as prosecutors, appeal to some tribunal, and claim the infliction of the punishment annexed by civil or military law on the Offences charged. In the other case, they give an opinion operating only as the world shall give it weight, drawing with it no military or civil punishment. In this last view we acted in this business and considering ourselves intitled to appear in either capacity; it was matter of concern to us to see that the Idea which was carefully excluded as we thought, from the resolution of Congress, appeared in your Excellencys letter, that a trial was directed on the second third and fifth charges exhibited by the Council against him. Our wish was to be understood not as having exhibited any charges to Congress or yourself against him except that of abusing waggons, and that only that he might remain to answer. And tho at first view it may seem a refinement, yet if your Excellency will reflect upon the consequences you will see they are very important. For if by a publick body expressing their sense of an officers conduct they are to be considered as exhibiting charges against him to superior authority, it will follow, that they become his prosecutors, must support the charges, attend any tribunal however distant, inconvenient or prejudicial the other publick affairs of the state, or subject themselves to the imputation of Malice and wantonness. And we think it would not be a pleasing sight to your Excellency to behold the Legislative or executive bodies of the states following the camp under all its inconveniences and dangers on such occasions. If military punishment is sought, the seekers must submit to the inconvenience whatever they are, otherwise injustice may be done the individual. But where no such object is in view, but the publick Judgment appealed to, the individual has his opportunity of vindicating himself and shew the opinion formed of him to be unjust. There has been scarcely a bad Governor on the Continent of whom the publick bodies have not expressed such opinions, and yet there was always a regular tribunal and proper authority where they might have sought redress.
In this transaction tho a remedy for publick abuses was our object, unforeseen and unexpected difficulties occurred until we got it put into your Excellencys hands, we were encouraged by that circumstance, and are now resolved to go thro’ with this, but are inclined to believe that we shall in future bear our part patiently of the consequence of any evils of this kind as the lesser inconvenience of the two. In the present case for the sake of peace, and that Congress might not consume more days (for many were spent on this comparatively trifling business) we proposed the present trial and are content to be considered in any point of view necessary to bring it to a proper issue. When we speak of difficulties or obstructions we beg you to believe we confine our views intirely to this City. The parties which then divided the state, created and continued them. If the same transaction was to happen again different measures we think would be pursued.
The President has communicated to us that he has received in a private letter a notification of the tryal for the first of June which is quite agreeable to us, and the letter has been delivered to General Arnold accordingly.
The necessary connection of evidence on one point will fail by the absence of Clarkson and Franks, but as we have no doubt it was intentional, we think postponing the tryal on that account would be of no effect as they would not probably return to these parts till it was finished even if postponed to the first of July or a later day.
We shall have the papers got in readiness with such other preparation as may be necessary.
We do not expect that any influence or authority of ours will induce the appearance of those from this state whose attendance is necessary. We must therefore endeavour to supply it as well as circumstances will admit. We are sorry your Excellency should suppose we had suspicions of the honour and impartiallity of the Officers who are to compose the Court—if such is the natural inference from our expression it was a very great inaccuracy. We thought there was a material distinction between the doing an act, and the nature of it when done; that the objects of consideration were quite different and from sentiments expressed here by some, we had reason to apprehend that persons unacquainted with the nature of the service and the consequences of perverting the publick waggons might deem it a small matter, and treat it accordingly. But we would much rather have omitted the remark wholly than have given room for such a construction.
We hope your Excellency will excuse the length of these observations, as we did not apprehend that any such consequences would have flowed, or inferences have been drawn from ours of the twenty fourth and twenty fifth of April, we have been the more solicitous to obviate them and are equally so, to avoid any occasion for the like in future.
When we consider the situation of our militia in this state, their deficiency in arms and that those counties from whence they ought to be furnished have been so constantly called upon for near two years that they seem weary and averse to the service, we fear it will be utterly impracticable to draw out any number of them within the time required, and tho it is painful to us to acknowledge it, we think it better to do so, than to give expectations which we have so much reason to fear will fail us. These are the principal difficulties, but there are others of an inferior nature which time only can remedy. The militia is composed altogether of those who are attached to the present government. They see all the appointments of Commissaries Quarter Masters and other Officers of Continental establishment, bestowed almost without exception on persons opposed to the government. Many of these are profitable, all give an influence of which they are never like to partake, on the other hand it is employed to support opposite measures. Former and late appointments have ran in the same channel, so that the body of Whigs in the state have in a great degree lost that ardour and zeal which gives life and spirit to service. We wish it was otherwise, and that as a common and indispensible duty, all ranks would concur, however smaller circumstances might run counter; but it is to be feared there is too much of human nature in it to be easily rectified. We have long seen and lamented the progress of this evil, the effects of which are every day more visible throughout the state.
The imprudent behaviour of some Officers stationed in the Country also contributes to increase the mischief. The inhabitants of Lancaster County actually embodied themselves against Pulaski’s Corps; and Colonel Whites conduct at Lancaster has not lessened the disquiet. He without any provocation, or as appears since, a mistaken one, the other day beat the Attorney General with circumstances of great indignity; this is the third time that Officer of the government has been so treated by Continental Officers. We had yesterday a return of forage drawn at that post by his regiment, by which it appears that in the time they have been there, they have drawn seven thousand and fifty bushels of grain and two hundred and thirty tons of hay; no state or country can support such expence. These Circumstances have a very unhappy effect and the Continuance of staff Officers whose mismanagement is so notorious, discourages the people in their exertions for real and actual service. We forward your Excellency, letters lately received from the Lieutenants of Lancaster and York counties, and as we find that from the difficulty of procuring Militia and the period of their service, we cannot draw that effectual support from them that we wish. We have endeavoured to supply it, in the following manner which we believe you may depend upon. We are forwarding the five companies of rangers which will make three hundred and eighty men. Westmoreland has raised two additional companies, under the encouragement of General McIntosh and has offered to raise another. Northumberland has also raised three companies. these will make two hundred and sixty five men, and tho they have been raised by a kind of private subscription we have encouraged and adopted them. These will make in the whole seven hundred and forty six men none of less term of service than six months. In addition to these if the Commanding Officer of the expedition when he gets into the County finds it expedient, and practicable, orders will be lodged with the Lieutenant of the County to comply with any requisitions he may make of Militia for the purposes mentioned in your Excellencys letter, and we hope in such case it would be effectual as the season being past for putting in their spring grain they will have more leisure and inclination.
Last year the Counties of Lancaster York Cumberland Berks and Northampton furnished twelve hundred men for the frontiers on this side the Mountains. Westmoreland sent every man that they could spare to Fort Pitt. The unevacuated part of Northumberland kept all their Militia under arms with Colonel Hartley the whole season. Besides this, Lancaster has kept one hundred and forty men since last fall, and now has the same number guarding Continental stores at Lancaster and Lebanon. Two hundred were also kept on duty the whole of the summer and fall in and about this City for the like purposes. We took our share of guarding the Convention troops, and since Proctors regiment has been ordered to march, we have garrisoned the forts on the river. When all these circumstances are considered we hope we shall not be esteemed so deficient in publick duty as may appear at first sight. Maryland has declined even furnishing a company of Militia to relieve Rawlins Regiment, and Congress has directed a special regiment to be raised in Virginia for guarding the Convention Prisoners.
Should any emergency make it expedient to call a reinforcement of Militia to the grand army for any special purpose we think we could promise your Excellency a body of men from the City and adjacent Counties, they not having been called to any other duty for some time than we have mentioned above, and we flatter ourselves that in this case many Gentlemen of note would set a laudable example.
Upon the whole we beg leave to assure your Excellency of our very sincere regard, and most respectfull attachment, and that we shall on all occasions most chearfully co-operate in every measure you shall recommend to us. Being fully convinced that in all your views and actions a disinterested love to your Country and regard to its safety and happiness are the ruling principles of your conduct. With these sentiments, and most unfeigned wishes for your health success and happiness, we remain Your Excellencys most obedient and very humble servants
Signed by Order of CouncilJos: Reed Presidt
P.S. We beg that what we have said respecting Col. White & the Qr Masters Department may not be understood by your Excelly as making Complaints, we only state them as publick Opinions influential on the People we do not know whether they are well or ill founded.


Title: To George Washington from Captain Lieutenant James Smith, 8 May 1779
From: Smith, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Pluckemin [N.J.] 8th May 1779

I take the liberty to lay before your Excellency the inclosed account of £49.5/ which is the ammt of my expences in pursuit of eight deserters. I truly and honestly paid every farthing chargd in the Accot and have sworn to it. I Exhibited the Accot to the Auditors of the Army, who informed it was out of their power to allow me more than 3 dollars each day I was on the command being eight days, and amounting to twenty four Dollars. I have no other resource than to apply to your Excelly for redress, conscious of the strictest frugallity in my Expences, industry in pursuit of the Deserters, and being unable to bear the Expences on my own accot, the Sum for which the auditors cannot allow being more than three months of my pay, I beg your Excellency would be pleased to order the Account to be settled according to its real Amount. I have the honor to be with the highest Respect Your Excellency’s most Obedient Humble Servt
James Smith Capt. Lt Arty


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 8 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dr Sir
Head Quarters Middlebrook 8th May 1779.

I have ordered a regiment from General Poors brigade to Easton, which I expect will march from Peekskill in two or three days. It is directed to proceed by New-Windsor, and from thence by the way of Mohocamac.
I advise you of this, that you may meet it with such instructions at Mohoccamac or on the Road as relates to its route from that place, or whatsoever else you may judge proper on the occasion.
By Colonel Stewart who carries this letter I sent you the best maps I have of the country; and I have to request your usual exertions in carrying into execution, and completing with all possible dispatch those things on which our operations depend. I need not say how anxious I am to see it commenced; how precious every moment is at this period, or how necessary to push matters with all industry in our Power.
Col. Stewart is well informed in several particulars which may be of use, such as roads—distances—places for Magazines & the like—you may therefore consult him on such points. I am Dr Sir &
G.W.

P.S. I inclose you a Pougkeepsie paper, by which you will observe some of your work has been anticipated by Col. V. Schaik.


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 8 May 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Easton [Pa.] May 8th 1779

I arrived here yesterday morning Spencers and Malcolms Regiments are Lying here not in the heighths of good Humor. Courtlandts Regt I can hear nothing of: Capt. Craige Late of the Light Horse arrived This Day at 2 oC. P.M. from Mohacomac & Says he heard nothing of them though he Enquir⟨ed.⟩ I Suppose they have not marched—I have Sent to Fort Pen for Capt. Patterson & made Every other Enquiry Respecting the Roads all agree that the Indian Path Marked from Easton to Wioming on Sculls map is impassable for waggons & cannot possibly be made So—but That there is a possibility of Compleating a Road from a Little above Pokono Point to Wioming This is the Road most Commonly used at this Time it falls into the Indian Path twelve miles at this Side Wyoming There will be a number of persons with me tomorrow who are well Acquainted with all the Roads if this Road cannot be made passable There is another Rout by Shoholly house where the Road is good but is Thirty Eight miles further perhaps this must Eventually be the Rout—There has not as yet been an attempt to prepare the other Roads nor has any person been to Look at them—I will do Every thing in my po⟨wer⟩ to Set the wheels in motion & make the necessary preparations for the Army to move on—I find that the Expedition is no Secret in this Quarter—I find by Colo. Spencer that Colo. Lindley has no Thoughts of Resigning he is now at home and has not been with his Regiment Six months During the Last two years Colo. Spenser wishes to have him Left out & Colo. Smith appointed your Excellencey may perhaps find a method to bring this about. General Hand is not yet Arrived at Wyoming Colo. Butler writes on the 4th that the Troops at Wyoming are in great want of Ammunition I Shall Send on Some as Soon as an Escort can be fixed which cannot be till Courtlands Regt Arrives as the Indians being on Every part of the Road will Render it necessary to have the Escort very Strong—a Serjeant of Spensers who was made prisoner at Mohacamac & Carried to Chemung has Just Returned he Inlisted with them & was in one of the parties Sent out to Cutt off the Communication between this place & Wioming he Says that They know of the Expedition & are taking Every Step to Destroy the Communication on the Susquehannah &ca. I think the Sooner we can get into the Country the Better. I am Dear General with the most Perfect Respect Your Excellenceys Most obedt Servt
Jno. Sullivan


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 8 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

Dear Sir
Head Quarters [Middlebrook] May the 8th 1779

I had the pleasure to receive your favor of the 16th Ulto some days ago, and should have acknowledged it before, if I had not been prevented by a multiplicity of business.
From my desire to promote matters of your recommendation—and from the very favourable sentiments, which I entertain of Mr Mcpherson and Mr Archer, I should be happy it were in my power to return you such an Answer as you wish. But, the States having been obliged to reduce a number of Corps of late—and many valuable and deserving Officers—of long service and good reputation, I cannot with propriety advise the raising of a new One. Besides this consideration, as each State has a particular Quota of Men apportioned on it, if the Two Companies were to be formed they would, according to the Spirit of a Resolution of Congress lately passed, be a deduction from the Batallions exacted from the State or States to which the Men belonged. This might be a cause of uneasiness and discontent. And it has been found, though the case possibly may be otherwise now, that these separate—independent kind of Corps, have not been permitted to share in the State supplies of Cloathing and have experienced more distress and greater wants than any other Troops. As I have observed, it may possibly be otherwise in future, as Congress have recommended it to the states to consider the Men composing them, as part of the Quota’s enacted from them, and that they should stand upon the same footing with respect to Cloathing as those in their several Batallions. These Several reasons are opposed to my recommending the measure; However, if Congress choose to adopt it, It cannot be disagreable to me. I am Dr Sir with great regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt sert
Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 9 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Sunday May 9th 1779.
Parole Cockermouth—C. Signs Corinth Cuba.

The Commander in Chief requires that the most pointed observance be had to all former orders prohibiting the use of the Waggon horses of the Army & forbids in the most positive terms their being rode on any pretence: When horses are wanted by officers for extra services, the Quarter Master General will furnish them on application.
The soldiers are not to be suffered to cut down any more trees for firing until they have used the whole of those already felled and all the brush in the neighborhood of camp.
Justice to the Inhabitants and a regard to public œconomy demand the strictest attention to this order.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 9 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Dr Sir
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 9th 1779

Col. Armand being now on the recruiting service to the Eastward, I am to desire that you will furnish him with orders on the Clothier at Boston for cloathing all the recruits he now has or shall hereafter make, for which he will previously furnish you with authenticated returns. I am Sir Your most Obed. servant.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Henry Knox, 9 May 1779
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
Park Artillery Pluckemin [N.J.] 9th May 1779

In my Letter to Colonel Hamilton yesterday, I forgot to desire him to mention to your Excellency, That, George Baker one of the deserters sentencd to suffer death by the Court Martial, is the only person among the prisoners who has shewn any Candor in their examinations. By his information the persons who conducted and secreted them were discover’d. It is true, he is a very great Villian, having first deserted from the Enemy, inlisted in our service, deserted back to them, and was either taken by some of our light parties while we were at White plains last year, or deserted from the Enemy, I do not know which, and now was making an attempt to get to them a second time. And were the War to continue ten Years longer he would be for changing sides once or twice a Year.
I know not how far these circumstan⟨ces⟩ will operate against his receiving your Excellencys Mercy, for certainly a subject more unworthy of it can not be found. But I am clearly of opinion That a full Confession in most instances ought from principles of policy to entitle the Criminal to pardon.
I thought it my duty to state these circumstances to your Excellency as they do not so fully appear from the face of the proceedings of the Court martial. I am with the greatest respect Your Excellencys most Obedient Hble Servant
H. Knox


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 9 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

Dr Sir,
Head Quarters Midd⟨le⟩ Brook May 9th 1779

I have the honor to inclose your Excellency the examinations of two of the inhabitants of this state David Urmston & Bn Pound taken before Brigadier General Knox—The practice of seducing the soldiery and aiding them in deserting to the enemy has arisen to such an alarming height, that unless some severe examples can be made it must be attended with the most pernicious consequences. How far the laws have made provision for punishing a crime of this nature, I am not able to judge; but as far as they will extend, I am persuaded Your Excellency will see the necessity of do[in]g every thing to suppress a practice so dangerous to the public service. The men will be delivered up to the civil authority in such manner as you shall be pleased to direct; and I have desired General Knox to furnish whatever evidence he may have relative to their conduct. I have the honor to be with perfect esteem & regard Dr Sir Your most obed. serv.


Title: To George Washington from George Morgan, 9 May 1779
From: Morgan, George
To: Washington, George

Sir
Princeton [N.J.] May 9th 1779

The Delaware chiefs appointed by their nation to transact business with the united states are now at my house—They are desirous to make known to your Excellency their situation—and the situation of Indian affairs in general to the Westward, before they do it to Congress—This they wish to do in person, if you please to appoint a time for them to wait on you either at your own quarters, or in the neighbourhood of camp. There are three chiefs—they have eleven attendants—a part or the whole will wait upon you as your Excellency may direct—I can manage matters so as they shall arrive at any appointed hour—And as what they have to say, will be committed to writing it will take up the less of your time. As they have thrown aside the use of wampum they will wish to be indulged with your Excellency’s written answer. As the disposition of this nation has been and is of infinite consequence to the frontiers of Virginia and Pennsylvania I have thought I could not render my country a more important service than to attend with these chiefs on your Excellency. They have brought three of their sons to place at school under my care, as a testimony of their disposition towards us, and they would very willingly increase the number. I shall wait your Excellencys answer &c.
Geo. Morgan.
P.S. I have thought it proper to inclose to your Excellency the original address of the Delaware Indians.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Goose Van Schaick, 9 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Van Schaick, Goose

Sir
Head Qrs Middle Brook May 9th 1779

On friday, by the favor of General Schuyler, I had the pleasure to receive a Copy of your Letter to him of the 24th Ulto and of the Minutes and proceedings in the expedition against Onondago. You will find my sentiments respecting the enterprize—and the conduct of the whole party in it—expressed in the inclosed Copy of the order issued when I received General Schuyler’s Letter. I am sir with regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt sert
Go: Washington
Is the artillery and rifle corp to march with the Troops?


Title: General Orders, 10 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters Middle-Brook Monday May 10th 1779.
Parole Wallingford—C. Signs Witney Werle—


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 10 May 1779
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [Philadelphia] May 10th 1779

The Officers of Col. Proctor’s Regiment have express’d great Uneasiness on Acct of the unsettled Situation of their Rank. They even threaten not to march without their Commissions. The Papers relative to this Regiment were a considerable Time ago sent to General Knox. We beg Leave to suggest to your Excellency the Necessity of arranging this Regiment if it be possible as great Dissatisfaction prevails among its Officers & we are by no Means clear that they will march under their present Circumstances.
The Board have been frequently applied to on the Subject of Drums & Colours for the several Regiments. It is impossible to comply with all the Requisitions for these Articles as we have not materials to make either in sufficient Numbers. We hope however to have in a short Time a competent Number of Drums. So soon as they are made we send them to Camp as we find many Irregularities & Inconveniencies arise from delivering them or any other Articles here. As to Colours we have refused them for another Reason. The Baron Steuben mentioned when he was here that he would settle with your Excellency some Plan as to the Colours. It was intended that every Regiment should have two Colours—one the Standard of the United States which should be the same throughout the Army & the other a Regimental Colour which should vary according to the facings of the Regiments. But it is not yet settled what is the Standard of the U. States. If your Excellency will therefore favor us with your Opinion on the Subject we will report to Congress & request them to establish a Standard & so soon as this is done we will endeavour to get Materials & order a Number made sufficient for the Army. Neither can we tell what should be the Regimental Colours as the Uniforms were by a late resolution of Congress to be settled by your Excellency.
As we are not acquainted with the Circumstances of the Army & it being much more proper on a Variety of Accounts that you should judge of the Necessity of any Supplies demanded by the Officers, we beg you will be pleased to give it out in Orders that they shall not apply here for any Articles they are in Need of for the Troops at Camp as they will be furnished according the Ability of the Departments to supply them where the Troops are stationed. We are so frequently importuned for partial Supplies that your Excellency’s complying with the above Request would ease us much—But if it will throw a greater Burthen upon you we would not wish you to do it as we are perfectly willing to share your Difficulties on this or any other Occasion. Large Demands and small Means of satisfying them are disstressing as well to the Officers as to us who are too frequently incapable of granting their Requests as well from the Scantiness of our Stores as from a Conviction of the Impropriety of delivering them here. Troops on their Way to Camp & Recruits we always supply at least with so many Articles as will enable them to join the Army. We have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect your very obedient Servants
Richard PetersBy order


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Daniel Brodhead, 10 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Brodhead, Daniel

Dr Sir
Head Quarters Middlebrook 10th May 1779

Your favor of the 17th ultimo came duly to hand.
I think it not unlikely, that the resolve of Maryland, may stop the march of Rawlings broken Regiment. In making your arrangements therefore, you will not place much dependance on this reinforcement.
You will be enabled by refering to my last letters of the 21st April, and 3d instant, to judge of my sentiments respecting the garrison at Fort Laurens. The continuance of which I have said, must depend upon the support you can give it, and the resistance it is capable of making against field artillery, if there is any probability of these being employed against it. But If it is concluded to hold this post no time should be lost, to render it cannon proof. In the mean time all useless stores, or such as are not necessary to complete its defence should be withdrawn. But whether this is to be accomplished by horses, or craft, sent him for that purpose, can only with propriety be determined by those on the spot.

From a general consideration of circumstances and situation, I am induced to give Fort McIntosh the preference, as to covering the country. It appears to me also, as the most advantagious post in case of offensive operations; because of its being so far advanced on the frontier. As to its serving to keep up an idea of hostility, the argument is not to be admitted unless Fort Laurens should be also deserted.
You speak uncertainly with regard to evacuating Cauhawa. Not sufficiently informed in the principles on which it has been established; nor of its real importance, relative to the cover it affords the inhabitants, I am at a loss what to advise. I can only propose a close comparison, of the alarm an evacuation would occasion, with the advantages which may be derived from the garrison, in case it should be withdrawn. This reasoning will apply to the smaller posts in general; the utility of which you seem to suggest; as less profitable than the purposes to which their troops could be employed. In the gross, I agree with you, in prefering patroling parties to a number of small garrisons—and to employing these, in irruptions, whenever it can be attempted with a moral certainty of success.
I shall endeavour to find some French officer answering your description—and mention to the board of war your request for a few swivils. At this juncture you will not suffer much by a want of engineers.
If the companies raising in Westmoreland and Monongahala counties, are not in forwardness; or if they should not appear to be essentially useful, I would have them dismissed. We are not over burthened with provisions, nor should we venture to encrease our public expences, except in cases wholly unavoidable.
For similar reasons Captain Heths company must be kept strictly to its duty, or be immediately dismissed. I cannot see the public imposed on, or the purposes for which men were raised perverted. I am much obliged to you, for your attention to these matters.
Capn Sample has received a warrant for 20,000 dollars for the recruiting service. The officers on this business, will observe, that the men of one State, are not to be inlisted into the regiment of another. This supply I hope will not come in a bad time, and will assist in filling up your regiment. I imagine you have been misinformed relative to Virginia giving by a law of the State 14, or 1500 dollars bounty for an 18 months inlistment. However if the men should not inlist freely the money must be employed to other occasions (such for instance as pay for the regiment) as it is difficult to obtain the requisite supplies.
You seem to be so well acquainted with the policy of cultivating, and preserving a good understanding with the Delawares, and other well disposed Indians, as to render any thing in addition to what I have said in my last letter, unnecessary. I wish we had in our hands a sufficiency of such articles as have weight with these people; either in directing their arms, or conciliating their friendship. But when these are not to be procured we must use the best means in our power to effect these purposes.
I cannot conclude without recommending the strictest œconomy in all your conduct and operations. You may be assured it is become indispensibly necessary; and that you cannot pursue more effectual measures of recommending yourself to public favor and thanks, than by an attention to its interests at this period of its affairs. I earnestly recommmend also, that the batteaux and other vessels which are built for the public use, may be held in a manner sacred, otherwise they will get dissipated, and when the moment arrives that they will be wanted, none will be found. I am dear sir with due regard your obedient and hble servt
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Royal Flint, 10 May 1779
From: Flint, Royal
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Camp Rariton [N.J.] May 10: 1779.

It is with reluctance, I lay the inclosed papers before your Excellency; both on account of the trouble that will attend your perusing them, and because the information they contain is not, in itself, favorable. But there seems a propriety in my taking this measure; that if any deficiency of provisions should happen, it may be known, what was the occasion of it. No prejudicial consequences will arise to this army, from lessening the quantity of fresh beef, as the troops in this state, may be fully supplied with salt meat. Indeed it should be considered, in no other light, than as a temporary suspension of the supplies of live cattle, occasioned solely by a want of money; and when that particular cause is removed the difficulty will no longer operate.
I wish General Gates had been more explicit, in his representation of wanting provisions. It is hardly possible, he should ever have been destitute of meat, as there is a plenty of salt beef & pork within three days land-carriage of Providence; and I believe, at no time, have his troops been, without a tolerable supply of fresh beef. His complaints therefore, may be supposed, to extend only to a want of bread; and even, in this respect, it is presumed, he has before now got sufficient relief. There were, at the time, his letter was dated, several thousand bbls of flour, in the east parts of N. York state, in readiness, for the special purpose of his army & other eastern troops. Their want of bread, at that juncture, must be attributed to a failure on the score of transportation. The Quarter Master General assures me, that his Deputies have lately received a sum of money which will enable them to remedy this evil.
The resources of the country are not so exhausted, but that proper supplies of provisions are capable of being collected. And should there be complaints of a scantiness, from one quarter & another, it should be imputed to some peculiar incident, which probably will in no instance, be of long continuance. I am respectfully your Excellencys most obt hbl. srvt
Royal Flint A.C.G.P.


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 10 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

Head Quartrs Middlebrook May 10th 1779.

I sieze a moment of leizure to thank you my dear Sir for your obliging favours of the 21st & 26th of April—My friendship for you will always make me take pleasure in cultivating the esteem and confidence of which you so politely assure me.
You give an affecting summary of the causes of the national evil we feel, and the still greater we have reason to apprehend—To me it appears that our affairs are in a very delicate situation; and what is not the least to be lamented is that many people think they are in a very flourishing way; and seem in a great measure insensible to the danger with which we are threatned. If Britain should be able to make a vigorous campaign in America this Summer, in the present depreciation of our money, scantiness of supplies, want of virtue and want of exertion, ’tis hard to say what may be the consequence.
It is a melancholy consideration that any concerned in the conduct of public affairs should discover an indifference to the state of our currency. Nothing in my opinion can be more manifest, than that if something effectual be not done to restore its credit, it will in a short time, either cease to circulate altogether, or circulate so feebly as to be utterly incapable of drawing out the resources of the Country. This is nearly the case now. With every sentiment of esteem & regard I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Ser.
Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 10 May 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 10th May 1779

I have had the pleasure of receiving your Excellency’s Favors of the 3rd, & 7th Instt with the several enclosures referred to in them; the former was committed for the purpose of executing the measures it recommends—the latter will be communicated to Congress this morning.
Herewith are enclosed Copies of two Acts of Congress respecting the defence of the State of Rhode-Island, with a copy of a Letter from Governor Greene of the 26th Ulto, upon that Subject—also an Act of the 7th Inst., making further Provision for the defence of Georgia and South-Carolina. I have the Honor to be With the greatest Respect And Esteem your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt
John Jay Presidt


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 10 May 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia 10th May 1779

Congress have directed their Thanks to be presented to Colonel Van Schaick & the Troops under his Command on the Onandaga Expedition—It appears to me most proper that this be communicated to him by your Excellency, & therefore a Copy of the Resolution on that Subject is enclosed.
The Conduct of Colonels Davies, & Harrison in their Conferences with the British Commissioners respecting a Cartel is approved by Congress, & a copy of the Resolutions on that head is now transmitted. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem your Excellency’s most Obedt Servant
John Jay Presidt


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 10 May 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia 10th may 1779

Enclosed is a Copy of a Letter from the minister of France to Congress of the 9th Inst. and of an act of this Day expressing the Sense of Congress that your Excellency consider yourself at Liberty to direct the military operations of these States in such manner as you may think expedient.
The Intelligence conveyed by the Letter from the minister is important, and may occasion alterations in the Plan for the ensuing Campaign. Congress confide fully in your Excellency’s Prudence and Abilities; and I am directed to signify to you their wish, that neither an undue Degree of Delicacy or Diffidence may lead you to place too little Reliance on your own Judgment, or persuade you to make any further Communications of your Designs than necessity or high Expedience may dictate. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem your Excellencys most obt Servt
John Jay


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 10 May 1779
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Trenton [N.J.] 10 May 1779

In answer to your Excellency’s Favour of yesterdays date, I have to observe that our Law respecting the offence proved in the affidavits which it inclosed, is so (ridiculously I would say, were it not an Act of Legislation) inadequate to the Crime, that it is only a fine of £10, which will render it well worth while for the British to employ a thousand Agents for the purpose, and to pay the penalty whenever they are detected. But I am in hopes that they may be punished under some of the clauses of what we call our Treason Act; & that ⟨th⟩ey may not escape for want of Law, as far as it can by any reasonable construction be extended against them, I shall transmit the affidavits to our Attorney General, directing him to give proper instructions to some Magistrate of Middlesex to receive the offenders from your officers, & to dispose of them according to Law—I have the honour to be with great respect Dr Sir your Excellency’s most humble Ser.
Wil: Livingston


Title: From George Washington to Philip Schuyler, 10 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear sir
Hd Qrs Middlebrook 10th May 1779.

In my letter of the 5th instant I had the pleasure of acknowleging some paragraphs in yours of the 29th ultimo. In this I would express my obligations to you for your sentiments on the several objects of our proposed expedition, with which I have so frequently troubled you. But I find myself if possible still more indebted for your further offer of services, and cannot but feel an increase of regard on the occasion.
It was not till yesterday I received your letter of the 27th, which some accident or other had detained. The enterprise against Onondaga appears to have been executed with great celerity and address. I transmitted the account immediately to congress, with your observations on Col. V. Schaick and the officers.
This success may prove interesting in its consequences. The prisoners are an acquisition which we should carefully secure, to answer either the purposes of exchange, or others as important. It is proposed by Gen: Clinton to have them moved down to Pougkeepsie. This will place them further from their country, and of course render their escape more difficult. However I would think it best to continue them in Albany, provided they can be effectually confined. But should any circumstances incline you to think otherwise you will take the measure proposed by Gen: Clinton. I am Dr Sir
G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Philip Schuyler, 10 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear Sir,
Head Qrs Middle brook May 10th 1779.

Colo. Butlar affords me so safe a conveyance of your Papers, that I gladly embrace it. I thank you much for the loan of them, having taken such extracts as I conceived might be useful. The more I revolve on that part of Colonel Bradstreets Journal pointing out the rout & distance from Wood Ck to Oswegatchie the more anxious I am to have it thoroughly explored by intelligent persons; that the distance from place to place, Mountains, Swamps, Waters & defiles may be accurately pointed out. Also where, & in what manner, the River St Lawrence is approached; how far above or below Oswegatchie it happens—what situations there are that command the navigation of the River, so as to prevent all intercourse by water between Oswegatchie and the Enemy’s posts above. In a word, that will give me some precise & accurate ideas of the general face of the Country & practicability of Marching a body of Troops that way with Artillery &ca & supporting a Post on the River & the communication with it in case circumstances should hereafter warrant a measure of the kind for the purpose of reducing the enemys force on the Lakes &ca.
I will rely upon you alone my dear Sir, to ascertain these requisites—do not hesitate on acct of the expence, for I will thankfully comply with your engagements, all I request is, that the matter may be conducted with as much secresy as possible, that the enemy may not suspect (even if circumstances should permit) that such an enterprize is thought of by us.
By all the Maps I am possessed of (Evans’s Holland’s, &ca) the distance from Fort Schuyler (nay Fort Edward by Hollands Map) to Oswegatchie is not greater than it is from the head of the Oneida lake to that pl⟨ace⟩—If the fact is so, & the country not more impassible than by the other Rout mentioned in Bradstreets journal, it is much to be preferred as it will save one post at least & render the communication more secure in proportion as it is removed from the lakes & the enemy’s march & difficulties in getting to it in-creased this matter therefore is also worthy of strict & close investigation—With very sincere affectn I am Dr Sir Yr most obedt & obligd
Go: W——n.


Title: To George Washington from Philip Schuyler, 10 May 1779
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Albany May 10th 1779.

I had the Honor to receive your Excellency’s Favor of the 27th Ult. on the 7th Inst. Being informed that the party which was sent to Oswegatchie as mentioned in mine of the 29th Ult. was returned to Fort Schuyler and that Lieutenant McLallen was expected in Town I deferred an Answer until I should see him—He arrived Yesterday and I requested a Journal of his proceedings, which I enclose—I have examined the prisoners; they assure me that no Troops have passed Oswegatchie this Spring to the Westward; that they have not heard of any coming from Canada; that an officer, whom they understood was an Aid to General Haldimand had gone to the Westward with Orders to the several Garrisons, but do not know what they were—They confirm McLallen’s Account of the Strength of the Garrisons of Oswegatchie and Buck Island; that the Enemy’s Vessels are at the latter place—A few Days ago an Inhabitant of this County who was made prisoner last Fall returned from Captivity; he was confined at Montreal and escaped from thence about the 22d of April—I have not yet seen him, but am informed he says no Troops had been sent from Canada; that Brandt had collected some Indians, and was soon to return to the Westward; that Sir John Johnson was also going there supposed to join his Regiment which is at Buck Island; that only McLean’s Emigrants were at Montreal; that he was informed by the Canadians many of the heavy Cannon were removed from St John’s to Sorrel—Another Man who escaped from Quebec was retaken and carried to St John’s and Chamblé from whence he escaped a second Time and came to General Clinton corroborates the Account of the Removal of the Cannon from St John’s.
I daily expect Louis from Canada, who will probably have obtained more particular Intelligence of the Enemy’s Intention and I doubt not if any Troops should move from Canada, but I shall have the earliest Notice of it from the person I have employed to send Intelligence. I shall not fail to maintain the Means of receiving Advice from that Country and transmit your Excellency without the least Delay any Information I may receive.
I shall this Day write to Colonel Van Schaick and Mr Deane to procure the best Account of the Rout to Oswegatchie by the Way of the Fish Kill; the State of its Navigation and the Nature of the Country. I have the Honor to be my dear Sir with perfect Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant
Ph: Schuyler


Title: From George Washington to Peter Scull, 10 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Scull, Peter

Sir,
Head Qrs [Middlebrook] May 10th 1779

Inclosed you will receive the arrangement of the 9th Virginia Regiment—It is the best though perhaps not perfectly accurate that can be obtained at this time. Colo. Gibson who will hand this to you and who commands the Regt will inform you of the necessity of commissioning the officers.
I also transfer to the Board several resignations, that the Officers next in rank may have commissions made out agreeable to succession. I am Sr &c.
G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 10 May 1779
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Valley of Lebanon [Pa.] May 10th 1779.

As my busyness with the Legislature of New Jersey will require my being at Trentown on Wednesday Next, A Vissit to Camp this Week which I intended, would be inconvenient as it would keep me Constantly on the Roads, with horses not in the best order. My being at Trentown last week I belive was favourable to the Affairs of the Jersey Brigade, The Officers under orders of March sent up a very Spirited Memorial to the Legislature, and Strongly pointed out the Mischeifs which would immediately follow, if an equitable provision was not instantly made for the Officers & men of the Brigade. However true & Just, the Legislature could not brook the thought of being frightned into the Measure, and some of the Obstinate Members Talked of rather seeing the Brigade disbanded than Submit to the Appearance of being bullyed; as I saw that the Appearance was now the Cheif Obsticle in the way, I proposed to some of the leading Members the expedient of withdrawing the Memorial and the Legislature takeing the Matter up (to all appearance) of their own meer Motion. this was Instantly agreed to on all sides, and in a few hours pretty ample resolves were made by both houses, among the rest it was ordered that £200. be paid to each Commissioned Officer & 40 dollars to each Soldier to enable them to pay their debts & to fit them for the Campaign. the money for this purpose is already gone to Elizabeth Town. I am sorry to find that the Legislature is slow in all busyness particularly in determining on the Means of recruiteing their Brigade in which as yet they have made but little progress, but they promise to give it their Serious Attention this week. my busyness seems to have a favourable reception among them, but it must be followd up Closely, or it may halt by the Way.
Lady Stirling and all the Gentlemen and Ladies in these two families Join in their most respectfull Compliments to your Excellency & Mrs Washington with your Excellencys Affectionate Humble Servant
Stirling,


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Otho Holland Williams et al., 10 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Williams, Otho Holland

Gentlemen
Head Quarters [Middlebrook] May the 10th 1779

I have been favoured with Your Arrangement of the Maryland line from the Captains to the Ensigns inclusive, and with your Letter of the 4th Instant to General Smallwood upon the subject. I find by comparing it with the Arrangement made by the Board of General Officers, that there is a difference as you express. In the Latter, Captains Oldham & Gishline have arranged as the 26 & 27 Captains; whereas in Yours the first is Numbered the 30th and the last the 33d, Sundry Captains not named by the Board of General Officers being placed respectively before them.
As those Two Officers (Oldham & Gishline) were commissioned by the State and stand in the Arrangement made by the Board of General Officers No. 26 & 27 in the list of Captains; You will be pleased to report the causes which induced you to think, that they ought to be postponed respectively to Captns—Morris—Williams—Gaither—Grace—prawl and Walker; and which prevented the Latter from receiving Commissions and being arranged before them till this period. You have only observed in general terms—that you were of Opinion that several of the first Lieutenants (under which description these Gentlemen were) were entitled to Companies before some Captains mentioned in the Arran⟨gem⟩ent of the Board of General Officers ⟨a⟩nd therefore had arranged them accordingly. I must request your earliest attention to this business, it being my earnest wish to complete the arrangement as soon as it can be done—upon the best plan that circumstances will admit of.
You will be pleased to return me All the papers I transmit. I am Gentlemen with great regard & esteem Yr Most Obedt servt
Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Greene, 11 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, William

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook 11th May 1779

I was duly honored by your Excellencys favor of the 26th of April in behalf of the council of War on the subject of the removal of Genl Glovers Brigade; Since the receipt of it, Congress have been pleased to transmit me a copy of your letter on the same subject to that honorable body accompanied by a resolve of the 7th Inst. directing me “to take such order thereon as the necessities of the State of Rhode Island may require and the good of the service admit.”
When my order for holding the Brigade in readiness was given, the situation of affairs in this quarter, and some important operations of the campaign in persuance of the directions of Congress made it indispensible; and had things remained in the same state, it would have been totally out of my power, to have avoided carrying the order into immediate execution. But having lately received intelligence, from New York that the Enemy have made a considerable detachment from that post, this makes some difference in the arrangements which would have been otherwise necessary, and enables me for the present to suspend the measure—How long it may be in my power to continue the Brigade where it is, is intirely uncertain. The peculiar situation of your State and the distresses to which it is exposed make me sincerely desirous to afford all the aid I can; but I am persuaded your Excellency would not wish me to do it at the risk of the general safety or at the expence of plans in which the united interests of these States may be essentially concerned. Nor am I less confident, that the justice of the State will not expect more from me than the means put into my hands will permit. It is a melancholy truth that our collective force is very incompetent to the numerous and extensive demands upon it. This points out the absolute necessity of vigorous exertions in the several States to make it more adequate; and I doubt not the State of Rhode Island will continue to make efforts proportioned to its circumstances, the danger with which it is threatned—and the exigences of the Public service at large. With every sentiment of respect I have the honor to be Sir your Excellency’s most Obet Servant
Go: Washington
P.s. The successes of the Enemy to the Southward have put me under the necessity of sending all the Virginia new levies and reinlisted men on furlough that way. This will lessen our expected force here and add to our difficulties.


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 11 May 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

Sir,
Head Quarters Middle Brook May 11th 1779

Brigadier General McIntosh will have the honor to deliver you this. The war in Georgia, being in the State, to which he belongs, makes him desirous of serving in the Southern army. I know not whether the arrangements Congress have in contemplation may make it convenient to employ him there; but I take the liberty to recommend him as a Gentleman, whose knowledge of service and of the country promise to render him useful. I beg leave to add, that General McIntosh’s conduct, while he acted immediately under my observation was such as to acquire my esteem and confidence; and I have had no reason since to alter my good opinion. I have the honor to be With very great respect Sir Your most Obedt servt
Go: Washington