Title: From George Washington to David Cobb, 30 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Cobb, David

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters Peekskill 30th June 1781

                        The inclosed Letter to the Count de Rochambeau is of very great Importance, & requires the utmost
                            Secrecy in its Comunication—this Idea you will convey to the Count before its delivery—to effect when you will first
                            converse with the Chevalr Chattalux on the Mode of its Comunication—Its Object is to inform the Count, that I have in
                            Contemplation A very sudden Surprize of some Post of the Enemy which will be of very great Importance in our Operations,
                            & which we have very flattering Expectations of obtaing—to cover & Support which if obtained we shall Want
                            the Aid of the French Army—in which Case it will be necessary for the Count to push on his Troops with greater Haste than
                            he at present intends, & by a different Rout from that now in Idea—The Dukes Legion to Advance—the Movements which I would
                            wish to be made by the French Army are particularized in My Letter to the Count—which you will see—It will be for you to
                            impress the Gentlemen with the Importance of their Motions to support our Operations—as it will be to little Purpose for
                            us to obtain Advantages which we may not be able to maintain.
                        As the Count with his Troops is now in a very disasted part of the Country & the Tories will be
                                very desirous to give every Information in their Power; the most profound
                            Secrecy will be necessary—Secrecy & Dispatch must prove the Soul of Success to Enterprize—This Idea you will
                            impress with Energy—using your best Discretion in the Mode.


Title: To George Washington from David Cobb, 30 June 1781
From: Cobb, David
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Newtown June 30th 1781

                        I was at Count Rochambeau’s this evening when I receiv’d your Excellency’s dispatches; Genll Chatteleaux was
                            immediately sent for, and the Heads of Departments consulted on the new intended rout of the Army—The Count inquire’d
                            whether your Excellency was acquainted with the removal of the Yaugers and some other Troops from Long Island to New York;
                            I assur’d him that your Excellency was perfectly acquainted with it; & all the other movements of the enemy at New
                            York, and that your Excellency wou’d never undertake a matter of this kind but upon certain intelligence & the
                            surest grounds of success—The Count was perfectly satisfy’d with the plan propos’d & assur’d me that Duty as well
                            as inclination prompted him to comply with your Excellency’s wishes—orders are accordingly given for the March of the
                            first Brigade in the morning, & the Duke’s Legion which is now at New Stratford, will undoubtedly march at the
                            same time; it will be at the place of destination by the time propos’d, 12 o’clock; the rest of the army will follow when
                            the other division arrives, which comes up to morrow.
                        The Count in his Letter wishes an answer from your Excellency by tomorrow night; it wou’d be more agreeable
                            if it comes sooner. I am with every sentiment of affection & esteem Your Excellency’s Obedt Servant

                            David Cobb


Title: From George Washington to Elias Dayton, 30 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

                        sir

                            Head Quarters Peekskill 30th June 1781

                        Imediately on the Receipt of this you will be pleased to collect all the Troops of your
                            Brigade (except the Compy at Wyoming) & put up them in motion on their March
                            towards Kingsbridge. As the Operations of the Campaign are on the Point of Comencing, you will use your utmost Diligence
                            that the Troops come on with Dispatch.
                        It will be very inconvenient (to say no more) to be loaded with Baggage; you will
                            therefore move on as Light as possible giving me Notice of your Movements & Approach;
                                that I may be able to give you any further Orders; as they may be found
                            necessary. I am sir Your most Obedt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. to Alexander McDougall, 30 June 1781
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.
To: McDougall, Alexander

                        sir

                            Head Quarters Peekskill 30th June 1781.

                        A Memorandum was sent you this Morng-- for a Captain 2 Subs-- fifty Men of artillery, with two light Pieces to be sent to this Place—The General now desires you will let one of the Peices be
                            a Twelve Pounder. I am most respectfully sir Your most Obedt Servt

                            Jona. Trumbull Jnr Sectry
                            to Comander in Chief


Title: To George Washington from John Pray, 30 June 1781
From: Pray, John
To: Washington, George

                        Dear Sir.
                            Niack June 30th 1781 10 oClock in the Morning

                        I am Just informed by very good authority, that there is lately a fleet arriv’d at York with Troops what
                            Number I cannot learn, but it is Reported they are from Virginia, Like wise that a fleet has saild out the east River and
                            have Return’d, in consequence of the French Fleet meating them—A great Number of Heavy cannon is posted allong the side of
                            the Crick by Kings bridge, The Yauger Horse is certainly encampt near the bridge They came there
                            yesterday. I am with every sentiment of respect and Esteam Your Excellency’s most Obedient and Very Humble Serveant

                            Jno. Pray Capt.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 30 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters near Peekskill 30th June 1781

                        I had last Evening the honor of your Excellency’s favor of the 28th with a postscript of the 29th.
                        The enemy, by sending a detachment into Monmouth County in Jersey to collect Horses—Cattle and other plunder,
                            have so weakened their posts upon the North End of York Island, that a most favorable opportunity seems at this moment to
                            present itself of possessing them by a Coup de Main, which, if it succeeds, will be of the utmost consequence to our
                            future operations. I have for this reason determined to make the attempt on the night of the 2d of July: But as we cannot
                            with the remainder of our own force maintain the advantage should we gain it, I must entreat your Excellency to put your
                            first Brigade under march tomorrow morning, the remaining troops to follow as quick as possible, and endeavour to reach
                            Bedford by the Evening of the 3d of July, and from thence to proceed immediately towards Kings bridge should circumstances
                            render it necessary. Your magazines having been established on the Route by Crompond, it may perhaps be out of your power
                            to make any deviation but could you make it convenient, you would considerably shorten the distance by marching from
                            Ridgbury to Salem and from thence to Bedford leaving Crompond upon your right.
                        There is another matter which appears to me exceedingly practicable upon the same night that we attempt the
                            Works upon York Island, and which I would wish to commit to the execution of the Duke de Lauzun, provided his Corps can be
                            brought to a certain point, in time. It is, the surprize of a Corps of Light Troops under the command of Colonel Delancy,
                            which lies at Morrisania without being covered by any Works. To effect this—The Duke must be at Bedford on the 2d of July
                            by 12 O’Clock if possible, where he will be joined by Colonel Sheldon with 200 Horse and Foot, and on his march from
                            thence by about 400 Infantry, both officers and men perfectly acquainted with the Country—Upon a supposition that the Duke
                            may be at Bedford at the above mentioned time, and that he will be ready to carry the design into execution, he shall be
                            met there by particular instructions from me, and will find good Guides. At any rate, I must request your Excellency to
                            send orders to the Duke this evening to continue his march tomorrow morning, and to reach Bedford by the Evening of the 2d
                            of July, if he cannot be there by noon. In this latter case, the enterprize against Delancy must probably be laid aside,
                            and the Legion with the first Brigade of your army will be at hand to support the detachment upon York Island should they
                            succeed. I shall move down with the remainder of this army towards Kings bridge, and shall be ready to form a junction
                            with your Excellency below, at some point which shall be hereafter agreed upon.
                        I am certain I need not recommend the proper degree of secrecy to your Excellency—one reason which makes it
                            more than commonly necessary in the Country where you are, is that the Enemy will have emissaries in your Camp in the Garb
                            of peasants with provisions and other matters, and will be attentive to every word which they may hear drop.
                        You will much oblige me by letting me know instantly by return of the line of Expresses, whether your first
                            Brigade and the Legion can march tomorrow morning and whether the Duke can be at Bedford by the time first proposed (the
                            2d of July at Noon).
                        Under the foregoing circumstances, it becomes necessary for me to march from hence on Monday, and I therefore
                            submit to your Excellency whether it will not be most convenient to both of us to defer our interview untill the Armies
                            shall have proceeded lower down. I shall take care to establish a proper communication between the Columns, and to see
                            that a junction is formed before there shall be any danger of an attack from the Enemy. I have the honor to be with great
                            consideration and perfect Esteem yr Excellency’s most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 30 June 1781
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,Newtown June 30. 12 o’clock P.M., 1781

                        About an hour ago, I received your Excellency’s Letter, wrote this morning; The 3d french regiment is arrived
                            this evening very Late. The 4th shall only arrive to morrow evening. The Troops and Specially those of the Artillery are
                            very tired, however, I make no difficulty about setting off to morrow morning with the first Brigade, and I hope the 2d
                            will follow the day after. I shall be at Ridgebury with the first Brigade on the first of July, and at Bedford, on the 2d.
                            I hope the second division will be there on the 3d, tho’ not without difficulty for the men and horses as they shall have
                            marched six days and made long journeys with Sojourning. I expect every moment the Duke of Lauzun whom I have sent for,
                            and I hope that he may arrive to morrow evening at Ridgefield his journey will be of 22, miles and that he will be on the
                            2d of July at Bedford by noon day.
                        The Subsistances are not what gives me the Least trouble, but I am going to do every thing possible to
                            endeavour to have some assured till the 3d; after which day, I expect that some may arrive from Fish’s keel. I send to
                            your Excellency at Peekskill the Munitionary for the Subsistance to take your orders about the
                            means he is to employ to make the bread arrive to us, either by Land or water.
                        I send to your Excellency the Intelligence I have received yesterday from M—— T.
                                correspondant. The arrival of the Cork fleet into the hook, seems to me worth while to be attended
                            to, as well as the passing of some troops thro’ hellgate to york island, where it seems the enemy is gathering forces
                            behind King’s bridge. If your Excellency changes any thing in your project, you will be so good as to Let me know it to
                            morrow night at Ridgebury, where I expect to receive your Excellency’s Last order. I am with respect and personal
                            attachment Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant

                            le cte de rochambeau

                     Enclosure

                                Dear Sir
                                  June 27 1781

                            Your Letter of the 23 Instant was handed me
                                Yesterday by Mr. S— And observe the contents—Sorry it had not arrived one
                                day earlier, that might have directd Austin Roe agreeable there to, I cannot think I
                                Should be Safe in going to New york—For reasons mentiond heretofore and the most can do in
                                complyance with your very urgent request. For have engaged a faithfull and capable freind to report to me agreeable to
                                your Queries on the 4 of July—Sooner could not obtain it.
                            Below is the report of a: Roe this moment returned from New
                                york. And communicated to him by our late correspondents—A Cork Fleet Just arrivd at the Hook numbers and
                                particulars unknown—Arbuthnots Fleet Cruising of the Hook—Accounts from the Southward favourable—Coll Ludlows
                                & the Jersey Volunteers have left Loyds Neck, And are now at Jamaica, The Yaugers And Ansbach Regimt Amounting
                                to about 800 Men Crossed Hell gate yesterday on to York Island The 17 Dragons & mounted Yaugers are about Islip
                                South—The Enemy expect an Attack, And are Contracting their lines, And collecting in force at K.
                                    Bridge There appears a greater number of Transports in full vew about Newyork now than Some time past but no
                                Ships of force.
                            Inclosed you have the papers And beleive me to be yours Sincerly

                                Saml Culper

                                N.B. The Enemy have no more than Six Sale of the line.

                                    Words in square brackets are translations of code.


Title: From George Washington to William Sackett, 30 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Sackett, William

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters Peekskill June 30th 1781

                        On the first day of July (that is tomorrow) you will assemble all the men of the three Companies of the
                            State Troops of New York under your Command at Bedford—where you will meet with Colonel Sheldon at or before night, from
                            whom you will be pleased to receive your Orders—It will be necessary for you previously to draw four days provision for
                            the men & have their Arms, Accoutrements & Ammunition in the most perfect readiness for use—I request in
                            the most earnest manner, that you will not Show this Letter, or mention the subject of it to any Person, or make any
                            extraordinary noise, or give any occasion to a suspicion, either among your own Officers or Men, or the Country People,
                            that you are making preparations for any movement whatever. On your punctual compliance with this Order, your reputation
                            as any officer must depend. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Philip John Schuyler, 30 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip John

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters Peekskill 30th June 1781

                        I have had the Pleasure to receive your two Favors of the 20 & 25th instants—and am much obliged by
                            the Zeal & chearfull Activity with which you are pursuing the very necessary Preperation of Boats.
                        I have consulted the Q.M.G. with respect to Oackum & Nails—which he tells me he has the best Reason
                            to believe he can procure & forward within your Time—and have also, agreable to your Desire, written to
                            Congress—& enforced to that Body, the Necessity of their takg the most effectual Measures, that you may be
                            reimbursed your Engagements by the Time mentioned in your Letter of the 20th—a Copy of which I have taken the Liberty to
                            forward to the President.
                        Inclosed is a Letter for Genl Stark, which I beg you to hand to him—in which I have desired him to apply to
                            you for Advice in the Disposition of the Troops on the Frontier—& for your Advice & Assistance, should he
                            at any Time find himself in any Distress or Accet of the Subsistance of the Troops. I am &ca

                            G.W.


Title: From Charles Stewart to David Humphreys, 30 June 1781
From: Stewart, Charles
To: Humphreys, David

                            Sir
                            Camp 30 June 1781

                        There are no Cattle yet arrived, when they come none shall be distributed before I receive His Excellencys
                            instructions. The pork shall be reserved about forty Barrells are now on hand, I Can expect twenty bbls
                            more from West point this day, which will be also laid by, for special Occasions.
                        I wait impatiently for a messenger for Fish Kill, by him expect to hear something about Cattle; The Hard
                            Bread is not yet got to hand from West point, but expected this day. The Ovens at West point are busy, and I hope those at
                            the Village, can be also set to Work, I am Sir Your most Obedient Servant

                            Cha. Stewart


Title: From George Washington to David Waterbury, 30 June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Waterbury, David

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters near Peekskill 30h June 1781

                        you will immediately on the Receipt of this be pleased to collect as many Men of your command as you possibly
                            can and march with them from the place of rendezvous so as to form a junction without fail with Colonel Sheldon at Clapps
                            in King Street on the second of July by Sunset—you most not exceed that time on any account—you will bring four days
                            provision, and ready cooked. You will receive further orders at Clapps—you’ll carry on no Bagage—the movement to be as
                            Light as possible—I must enjoin and I shall depend upon your keeping your movement a profound secret from any officer
                            under your command.
                        You will be pleased to inform me by return of Capt. Buckley with the number of Men which you think you shall
                            probably collect. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

                            P.S.—It will be absolutely necessary for you to send on upon the Roads below you in the Rout to
                                Marinack—small Parties of your trusty Men, & well acquainted with that Country—who may waylay the Roads
                                & prevent any Intelligence going to the Enemy—this must be attended to With the greatest Care &
                                Vigilance—these Parties not to be seen in the Roads, but be concealed in Fields.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Webb, Jr., 30 June 1781
From: Webb, Joseph, Jr.
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Wethersfield June 30th 1781

                        your polite Letter shou’d have been answer’d before this but when the Letter arrived I was at Colchester
                            about 25 Miles from here which I hope will excuse me, Mr Denny delivd the Work man the Leather; (& the Boots I now
                            send) The Bills enclosed Amounting to £3.6.0. I hope they will please your Excellency, they appear to me too short—but Mr
                                Thrasher the Bootmaker declares they are according to your Measure—We are extreamly sorry
                            to hear of the ill State of your Ladys Health—and sincerly hope before this She is recover’d—Mrs Webb says She feel’s anxious
                            for her going to Virginia wou’d rather prefer her coming to Wethersfield where she will find a Number that will be happy
                            to shew her every Civility in their power—When you did us the Honor of your Company at Wethersfield we only regret we
                            cou’d not enjoy your stay much longer & are happy you were pleased with your Jaunt—and hope for an
                            Opportunity whenever it may be consistant to your Excellency’s Business that you will make Wethersfield
                            your Quarter’s & the same House which is always at your service—Mrs Webb Joins in Compliments to your Good Lady
                            & self.
                        Accept Dear sir my Best wishes for your Health & Happiness a Glorious End of the War a Happy Return
                            to your Family to Enjoy that domestick Happiness due to you. I am most sincerly Yr Excellencys Most Obt H. sert

                            Jos. Webb

                            Dear sir Just as I was closing this Letter Majr Tallmadge has been polite Enough to say He is now
                                packing a H. Hd of Boots to forward on to Colo. Sheldon which will be with you in about four Days—& offers to
                                take Charge of your Boots I have Therefore Delivd ’em to him.
                            The other pair will be stouter—shou’d they not suit your Excellency we beg you not to take ’em but let us
                                know it & We will send you a nother pair.


Title: Inquiries Concerning the Defense of New York, June 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                                c.June 1781

                        Inquire minutely into the number of men which compose the present Garrison of New York and its dependencies
                            ascertaining the number at each post and Corps which compose them, distinguishing the British from the Foreigners.
                        If any reinforcement should arrive from Virginia or elsewhere, ascertain the number and Corps—or if any
                            detachments should be made likewise ascertain the number and Corps.
                        Take a view of the different Works and endeavour to find out the number of Cannon mounted in them, and the
                            number of men which are destined for their defence—likewise endeavour to find out the disposition the troops in the
                            neighbourhood of the Works are to make in case of Alarm.
                        The number and size of the ships of War in the Harbour and at the Hook.
                        If another Fleet arrives—from whence it comes—by whom commanded and number and size of ships.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, June 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                            Sir,

                                June-July 1781

                        Having already communicated to you my intention to attempt to Surprize the Enemys Posts at the north end of
                            York Island, & prepared you for the part I expect you to take in the conducting of it, I have now to desire That
                            you will on  next (under the most specious pretence that can be
                            devise to conceal the real object) detach as many Officers and Men as with the aid of the Infantry they are to accompany,
                            will be sufficient to manage the Artillery in the Enemys Works, in case they become Master of them.
                        That you will put up in the way least liable to suspicion, a dozen Rockets—three dark Lanthorns &
                            about 2000 flat headed nails for mufling oars with green hides—they may be given to the Party of Artillery, or thrown in
                            the way of Genl Hand, as shall be thought best & most likely to deceive.
                        That  boards Inch & half thick, & the
                            greatest length that can be obtained—with  Nails of a proper size to
                            fasten the cross, or foot pieces to them, be also provided, & delivered as above.
                        That you will, under the best colourable pretence, have scows & Boats in readiness at the Point to
                            throw the Troops across the River as quick as possible in the Evening of the .
                        That you will, if it is not unusual, and is not likely to create suspicion, contrive that the Connecticut
                            Troops, and indeed Artillery also, as a sufficient number of the latter will be required for  Field pieces including that which is at present with the light Infantry, be supplied, or
                            have on hand that day, at least two days provisions.
                        That in the forepart of the same day, you communicate to Genl Huntington & Colo.
                            Swift under the most solemn injunctions of secrecy (till the progress of the movements of the Corps
                            under their respective commands will no longer conceal the real object) what the design of it is; that, at the same time
                            they afford their aid to carry it into execution, they may lend their assistance to mask the design. as likely means as
                            any that occurs to me at present to effect this, is, to hold out the idea that information is received of a design in the
                            enemy to take advantage of the Accident at Verplanks point to possess themselves of that Post—and that these, being the
                            nearest Troops are hurried to its support—while their places again will be supplied from the Cantonment of New Windsor.
                            This deception may continue, & the longer it can be imposed the better, till the Troops pass Verplanks point.
                        That  pieces of Field Artillery, in the Night of that
                            day, be sent to Verplanks point—and Horses be Impressed for them so as to be at that place by day break—but no step is to
                            be taken in this matter that can alarm or give any cause to the Inhabitts to suspect the design till
                            after Midnight; as nothing will give greater Jealousy than an Impress of Horses for the Field Artillery to the disaffected
                                who would not require more than 4 hours to convey the Intelligence from the Neighbourhood of
                            Crompond Peekskill &ca to Kingsbridge.
                        Orders for the Light Infantry
                        The day the Detachment moves from New Windsor the Officer Commanding it (the Light Infantry I mean) is to
                            send two Companies to Bedford where the Officer Commanding those Companies is to receive further Orders—these orders are
                            to go to him through Major Talmadge. the Companies sent there may be those which happen at the time to be on Croton.
                        The day preceeding the Attack At Kings bridge & towards Sundown the light Infantry is to receive a
                            Sudden & peremptory order to march instantly to Verplanks point to reinforce the Post with every man that is
                            able—the others with the women & Baggage may remain, or move to West point—neither Officers nor Men are to be
                            incumbered.
                        At Verplanks point, or at the Fork of the Road leading to it they are to have orders to continue their march
                            towards Kings bridge with as much dispatch as possible without injury to the Troops. If Small parties,
                            stragglers, or men on passes should be out Officers must be left to follow with them.
                        Genl Hazen.
                        To be directed a day or two before hand to have his men, their Arms, Ammunition & cloathing in
                            readiness to be Inspected at the yellow House at 12 O clock, the day preceeding the Night of the Enterprise—It may be
                            hinted to him that as I am called upon to give an opinion respecting the propriety of continuing or reducing his Corps
                            that I will have it examined by a good Judge if I cannot be there myself before I determine.
                        About 4 O clock he may have a peremptory order to march every man that is fit for duty to Dobbs Ferry where
                            he will receive further orders.
                        The Relief for Hazen’s Regt
                        Is to march the same day that the operating detachmt goes from the Encampment, and to Quarter in the House at
                            & nearest to Smiths Tavern. The next day they are to reach the Block House, where he may be told Hazens Regiment
                            will join him the day following—& that that Officer will deliver over his Instructions to him.
                        Towards the Evening of that (third) day and wch is the Evening preceeding the Night of Attack he must have
                            Orders to proceed immediately to Dobbs’s Ferry where he will receive further orders.
                        Colo. Smith
                        Is to be informed of the Orders given to Hazen, and the Regiment which marches under the idea of a relief to
                            him.
                        He is to detain the Boats which may be at the Post at Dobbs Ferry—To discover without any appearance of
                            design, what Boats are at the slote and some time after dark sieze & bring them to the Post for the purpose of
                            transporting with as much expedition as possible the above Regiments to the East side.
                        He is to be informed of the signals, denominative of the different Works that are carried—and at twelve
                            o’clock that Night & not before, nor is a moments previous Notice to be given of it, he is to send one or more
                            Officer with a party of men over the River, who are to watch for the Rockets & listen for the Guns—none but the
                            Officers should be apprized of these Signals altho’ the Sentries are to look & listen for them for fear of
                            desertion. They will stop all Passengers.
                        Colo. Sheldon.
                        Is to have orders to deliver to Majr Talmadge his two Infantry Companies—The Dragoons mentioned by Talmadge
                            & to give him every aid he may require to facilitate his Enterprize on Long Island.
                        With the rest of his Legion—the State Troops of New York, & those of Connecticut he is to commence
                            his march for Kings bridge after Dark—He is to mask this movement so as that no Officer or Soldier under his Command shall
                            know what his object is further than it unfolds itself as he moves on.
                        Contractor
                        To be Instructed with respect to the Articles of Provision & Rum to be forwarded as quick as
                            possible.


Title: Order of March, June 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                            c.June 1781

                        Order of March for the Right Column of the American Troops
                        who are to move by the Right.

                                Colo. Scammell

                                Colo. Sheldon

                                1st

                                Sheldons Infantry

                                2

                                York Levies

                                3

                                Sheldons Cavalry

                                Scammell

                                4

                                Light Infantry

                        N.B.—This is the order of March during night in the day the
                        Cavalry will preceed the Infantry.

                        For the left Column—Marching by the Right on the Sawmill
                        river Road.

                                Majr Genl Parsons

                                1st

                                Van Guard

                                2

                                a field piece

                                3

                                first Cont. Brigade

                                4

                                Secd Cont. Brigade

                                     5

                                a field piece

                                Majr Genl Lincoln

                                6

                                 a field piece

                                7

                                first Massts

                                Brigade

                                 8

                                Second Do Do

                                     9

                                a field piece

                                     10

                                Sappers & Miners

                                Majr Genl Howe

                                11

                                Field piece

                                12

                                New Hamp Brige

                                13

                                 third Mass Do

                                14

                                Twelve pounder

                                15

                                Intrenchg Tools—Bat Horses, Canteens &ca.

                                16

                                Rear Guard

                        The spare ammunition of each division is to be in the rear of the division it belongs to.


Title: Washington’s Thoughts on Attacking New York, June 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                                c.June 1781

                        Detachment

                            diagram

                        The detachment above, makes two Battalions of 8 Companies each—a company will consist of 40 or 50 rank
                            & file, according to the agregate number which shall be deemed adequate to the enterprize in view.
                        The parts composing these Battalions, and intended for the different Services above ennumerated, may be drawn
                            out at different times, under various pretexts, that the real object may be hid as much as possible, even from the Army
                            itself—To relieve & strengthen the Post at Dobbs ferry, may be the pretence for drawing out the detachment for
                            Spiten devil and the Bridge—To relieve the Jersey Troops at Sedman’s, & to cover the Stores at
                            Ringwood &ca may serve for the detachment for the No. Redoubt—To reinforce the Troops on the lines may cover the
                            detachment for Fort Washington—That for Laurel hill must be deferred till the last moment—or it may be formed as a light
                            Corps next for detachment to the Southward or to  here as occasion may require.
                        To detach Officers & Soldiers for the Batteaux, and assembling the Boats without giving Suspicion,
                            will be most difficult—nor do I see how it can be done, unless it is under a pretext of
                            rescuing the Boats from ignorant hands, where at present, they are undergoing continual abuse and placing
                            them in those who know how, and not take care of them. If a general order of this
                            kind would envite proper persons to undertake the business & not imply neglect in the Q.M. Genl it would be
                            desirable. At all events, this, or some such expedient must be adopted to draw forth the number of Watermen which will be
                            wanted.
                        The Watermen, under their own officers are, after the debarkation to act as a guard to the
                            Boats.
                        The several detachments being made or ordered,a time & place, or places, if the design can be the
                            better covered by it, must be appointed for the embarkation by detachment, in the order of attack, and the whole, from
                            that moment, to be under the orders of the Officer who is to conduct the enterprize—The embarkation is to take place about
                            dusk & in as concealed a manner as possible.
                        From dusk till day break, or a little before it, there are not more than Seven hours; and
                            taking the chance of Tides and Wind, we ought not to calculate upon rowing more than 2 1/2 miles in the hour, or 17 miles
                            in the course of the night—and Verplanks being the lowest point of departure the detachment could not, from this place get
                            below Dobbs ferry the first night, & ought to stop sooner if they cannot reach it by 3
                            o’clock—a little below the lower battery at Dobb’s ferry (in the wood) would be a proper place to lye concealed at during
                            the day.
                        Before an Officer or Soldier is suffered to put a foot on shore they are to be charged not to make fires or
                            talk loud—and are to be charged moreover under pain of instt death not to stir 20 yds from their arms (wch are to be
                            stacked near the Boats but not with in view of the opposite shore—The Boats are to be concealed with boughs—and the men
                            not suffered to walk where they can be seen—In a word, they are to lye down—sleep—and refresh themselves for the fatigues
                            of the ensuing night.
                        Towards Sundown the business is to be disclosed to the principal Officers of the detachment, and those who
                            are to command the different attacks are to have their orders in writing, that no possible misconception of them may
                            happen—at this time also, the precise hour is to be ascertained, and the Watches made to agree to a moment—the hour of
                            attack is likewise to be fixed upon and ought, if practicable, to be at the same instant, at every point.
                        Every matter, & thing, must be clearly settled, & fully understood, before the embarkation at
                            this place—The arms and ammunition are to be inspected—The pieces searched, & not one suffered to be loaded. The
                            Troops will again embark by detachment in the following order. That for Fort Knyphausen first—Fort Tryon next—Fort George
                            on Laurel hill next—and those for Cox hill (at the Mouth of Spiten devil) & Prince Charless redoubt by the bridge
                            last—and in this order they will proceed with the utmost secrecy & silence under the shade of the Jersey shore
                            till they come opposite to the enemy’s works when they are—except the last detachment—to cross directly over to the
                            landing immediately under Fort Knyphausen which lyes in a small cove or Bason 2 or 300 yards above our old Battery at the
                            point known by the name of Jeffreys Rock.
                        Very particular attention must be given to the tide at the time of crossing, for if it should happen to ebb
                            the Boats may be driven so near Jeffreys rock as to be discovered by the Sentry from a Sergts guard which mounts there at
                            Night—on the other hand, the flood tide may heave the Boats up the river, so as to be discovered by a Corporals guard
                            above the Palisading or Stockade on the North River at Fort Tryon—The detachment before excepted, should make for the low
                            land between Fort Tryon & Cox’s hill where there has been a wood landing , and from whence a good road leads
                            immediately both to Cox’s hill & the redout at the bridge.
                        When the Boats approach near to the place of debarkation, the Troops in them are to lie low—if they should
                            notwithstanding be discovered, & hailed, they must endeavor to pass for deserters or Traders but rather the
                            former, having brought off a number of Boats which they mean to deliver up for pay; after landing & forming into a
                            solid column by detachment as aforesaid, they will proceed to the proper points of seperation; when each detachment will
                            move rapidly (but in good order) to acquire the honor, & sieze the advantages which they are in pursuit of. The
                            Column before seperation, and each party afterwards, should be preceeded by a small guard who should pass as long as
                            possible for friendly Sentries—and announce the approach of a reinforcement for the works towards which
                            they are marching. or have recourse to some other device which the exigency of the momt may dictate.
                        As the combining of many attacks all of which being to be made at the same moment and a deviation in point of
                            time in any one may give the alarm to the rest and defeat the whole the follwing enterprize will be found more simple—more
                            practicable—and perhaps equally important, as the redoubt by Kings bridge & that at the mouth of Spiten devil
                            would not remain in the hands of the enemy long if we possessed their works at the barrier.
                        Detachmt for this Service

                            diagram

                        If the enemy’s armed Vessels and guard Boats in the north river cannot be eluded the enterprize fails of
                            course, and the Detachment must return; because an alarm from the Water will give such timely notice as to render a
                            surprize impracticable—and without it, the works cannot be carried without great loss, if at all.
                        If the guard Boats are passed undiscovered, the deception will be the greater if the detachment continues
                            along the Jersey shore ’till it gets opposite to Morriss white House where, in some obscure place, it may land &
                            form—and march in the most undiscoverable way to the proper point of seperation when the detachment for Forts Knyphausen
                            & Tryon will file to the left & that for Fort George, or Laurel Hill, to the Right, & each move
                            rapidly for their object calling themselves a reinforcement for the works they are marching towards, and endeavour to pass
                            as such.
                        Previous to, or about the time of embarking the detachment, parties of Horse and foot should be ordered to
                            way lay every avenue on both sides of the River by which the enemy may obtain intelligence of the movement of the
                            detachment and every precaution used that can be thought of to conceal the attempt & give success to the
                            Enterprize.


Title: General Orders, 1 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Peekskill Sunday July 1st 1781
                     Parole Kendall
                     Countersigns Lancaster
                  Monmouth
                  For the day Tomorrow
                  Brigadier General PattersonLieutenant Colonel ReidMajor ThroopInspector—3d Massachusetts brigadeThe Quarter Master General will order the Billhooks and Hatchets to be sent to King’s ferry to the orders of Major Darby who will apply to Head Quarters for instructions.
                  Colonel Scammell will move with the Light Troops towards the mouth of Croton river to afford Major Darby any assistance that may be necessary in procuring Fascines.
                  After Orders
                  The Army will march tomorrow morning by the right at the hour appointed in the after orders of yesterday—The General will beat at two ô clock—the Assemblé at half past two—the March to commence at three in the following order—The Advanced Guard—pioneers—one fieldpiece 6 pounder—General Parsons’s Division followed by a field piece 6 pounder—the spare ammunition of General Parsons’s division.
                  General Lincoln’s division preceded by one of the field pieces attach’d to it and followed by the other—The spare ammunition of General Lincoln’s Division.General Howe’s division.
                  The Brigade commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Reid preceded by one field piece 6 pounder—the corps of Sappers and miners—one light twelvepounder.
                  The Brigade commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Smith followed by a field piece 6 pounder.
                  Spare ammunition of General Howe’s division.
                  Rear Guard.The advanced guard will consist of one sub. two serjeants two Corporals two Drums and fifes and twenty seven privates from each brigade and a Captain from each division; it will parade at half past two ô clock on the great road in front of the Left of the first Connecticut Brigade and be commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Reid.
                  The present camp guards of the Army with the Addition of a Captain from each Division will form the Rear Guard and parade at three ô clock on the great road at Commissary Irwin’s Quarters under the Command of Lieutenant Colonel Sherman.
                  The Battalions composing the line as well as the Advance and Rear guards will be careful to secure their flanks agreeably to the Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Army (Chap 14) the Officers of the Day and those commanding Battalions and Platoons will be answerable that no man quits his Platoon on any pretence.
                  The Quarter Master General will furnish the Route.
                  Brigadier General Glover is Appointed Brigadier General for the day tomorrow vice General Patterson indisposed.


Title: To George Washington from John Fellows, 1 July 1781
From: Fellows, John
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Sheffield July 1. 1781

                  your favor of the 25th ult., I last night received.  We have no account that our general Court have yet ordered a Detachment of militia: I have however at present no military command, nor is any general Officer on this County.  there is the highest Probability, that we shall soon receive orders from Governor Hancock, when in my private Capacity I will give every aid in my power that your Expectations shall be answered.  I have the Honor to be with every Sentiment of Esteem Sir, your Excellency’s most obedt & most huml Servt

                     John Fellows


Title: From George Washington to William Greene, 1 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, William

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters Peekskill July 1st 1781

                  I have not been favored with any Letter from you since General Heath went to the Eastward—from his account & Gen Cornell’s I have reason to believe your Excellency’s Dispatches for me have miscarried.
                  General Cornell informed me the State of Rhode Island had contracted for 30,000 lbs of Beef, to be forwarded to the Army in the Month of June & the same quantity in the Month of July—that half the Money was advanced to the Contractor, & that he was laid under heavy Bonds to comply effectually with the terms of the contract.  I have now to acquaint your Excellency, that not a pound of Beef has arrived from your State; & that the Army cannot be subsisted unless the Requisitions upon the States are punctually complied with.
                  Let me entreat your Excellency that the supply of Beef Cattle may instantly be forwarded from Rhode Island.  I have the honor to be &c.


Title: From George Washington to Armand-Louis de Gontaut Biron, duc de Lauzun, 1 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lauzun, Armand-Louis de Gontaut Biron, duc de

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters Peekskill July 1st 1781

                  I had yesterday the honour of informing the Count De Rochambeau of a Plan I had in contemplation of attempting to surprize some of the Enemy’s Posts, before they were alarmed by the junction of the French and American Armies, and requested the aid of your Corps in the execution of that design: In consequence of the Ansr of the Count, and upon the presumption that you will be at Bedford by 12 OClock tomorrow I have directed Lt Col. Hull to repair to that place & communicate to you verbally my wishes & intentions; he being perfectly acquainted with the different parts of my plan, I beg leave to refer you to him.
                  You will be informed that there are two Enterprises in contemplation, the one under the command of Major Genl Lincoln against the Posts on the N. End of York Island, the other an attempt to cut off Delancey’s and other Light Corps of the Enemy at Morrissania, with the Troops under your Command.
                  The Troops which will compose your command (exclusive of your own Legion) will consist of the Connecticut State Troops, under the command of Brigadier Gen. Waterbury, Col. Sheldon’s Legion, &  three Companies of the State Troops of New York— with the two latter you will form a junction at Bedford, should you arrive by 12 OClock as is proposed; and with the former (Genl Waterbury) at Kingstreet if you should reach that place by sunset—  They have directions to put themselves under your Orders.
                  As the success of the Enterprize under Major Genl Lincoln, which would be of infinite consequence to us, will depend entirely upon his reaching the point of debarkation, landing his men and making the attack upon the Enemy’s Works before they shall be alarmed; it will be necessary for you to regulate the Movement of the Corps under your Command in such a manner as that you will be at West Chester or in the neighbourhood of it, between the Break of day & Sunrise— by this Means you will be at hand soon enough to strike the blow by surprize, and not so early as to frustrate the expedition under Genl Lincoln.  General Waterbury, Col. Sheldon Capt. Sacket & Capt. Williams of the York Troops having a perfect knowledge of the Country, the route, the distance, & the position of the Enemy,  I need only suggest that it may be expedient to consult with them respecting the Roads, the time of March, the disposition for the Attack &c. they will be able to furnish you with good guides & all the necessary information.
                  Should the object which is to be attempted by General Lincoln, from any circumstances be laid aside, he will land above Kings-bridge to support you, at all events I shall be with the Army in the vicinity of that place, it will therefore be expedient for you when you approach towards Williams’s Bridge, to open a communication with the American Troops on the Road near the North River, by sending an officer with an Escort to that Road.
                  I am very apprehensive, from the long march you will have to make on the 2d of July & the night succeding it, that the Infantry of your Legion, will not be able to be brought on to Morrissania in time, I would advise in that case, that they should be left behind to come up at their leisure, & that your Cavalry (which will not probably be so much fatigued) should advance with the other Infantry to the attack.
                  Col. Hull being an Officer of great Merit and perfectly acquainted with the ground at & near Morrissania, & having formerly been employed in a successful enterprize against the Enemy at that place, I take the liberty to recommend him to you as a Gentleman who will be extremely useful in assisting you to make the necessary dispositions, & who will be happy to afford you every aid in his power.
                  It is unnecessary to recommend that every possible precaution should be used to keep the design a perfect secret from the Enemy, from the Country People, & even from the Troops (except such Officers as it is necessary to advise with) untill the Moment of your arrival at the Enemy’s Lines.  I have the honour to be

                     G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Pray, 1 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Pray, John

                     SirHead Quarters Peekskill 1 July 1781

                  You will be pleased to put a Sub. or Sergt with two Boats properly manned under the Command of Capt. Lawrence, I am Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 1 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                     sirHead Quarters Peekskill 1st July 1781

                  I have been honored with your Excellency’s Favor of last Night—and feel myself much obliged by the Readiness with which you comply to the Request I had the Honor to make to you in my last.
                  The Information conveyed by your Excellency, I had before received; altho not in so pointed a View with Respect to Numbers. The Enemy’s Apprehensions of our Intention, & the Probability I had reason to conceive, that their Force would be collected to the North End of the Island, on their receiving Information of our Approach, were among the Reasons which induced me to fall upon this Enterprize—and added to other Reasons for the Necessity of its sudden Execution, the present Stage of the Moon operated for fixing the Time I mentioned The Success of our Enterprize depending on its being a sudden Surprize of the Posts, which must be attempted by Night Operations, when our Approach can only be concealed, a Delay to a fuller Time of the Moon which would greatly expose our Detatchments to a Discovery, could not be admitted—These Reasons, I hope will apologize to your Excellency for my Desire to hasten the March of your Troops, which must be fatigued with the long Rout which they have already performed.
                  should we be so happy as to succeed in this Attempt, it will give us exceeding great Advantage in our future operations—and indeed save us perhaps the Time of good Part of the Season, to establish a Comunication with York Island—I am obliged however to confess to your Excellency that I am not highly sanguine in my Expectations—altho I think there is a good Probability of succeeding—so great, that I have thot it expedient to hazzard the Attempt.
                  From my late Information however, & that I may not Risque too much, I have directed the Officer comanding the Detatchment (Major Genl Lincoln, who will Tomorrow be in a Position for the Purpose) that he shall in Person reconnoitre the Situation of the Enemy, and inform himself, by every Means in his Power, of their probable Strength & Numbers, from whence he will be able to determine the Practicability of accomplishg his Aim—On this Ground the Attempt will be reduced to a Contingency—Genl Lincoln having my Instructions to conduct himself eventually, agreable to his own Discoveries, & his Judgment of the probable Success or Failure—should he obtain such Information of the Enemy’s Position & Strength as to oblige him to abandon the Attempt on their Posts—he will then, agreable to his Instructions, throw himself into a Situation to form a Covering Party to the Enterprize to be conducted by the Duke de Lauzun.
                  I shall keep myself constantly informed of the Movements of Genl Lincoln—& as the Army under my imediate Comand will be moving towards the Point of Operations, I shall be able to give such Instructions and Orders from Time to Time, as Events shall render necessary—of which your Excellency may depend on being regularly advised.
                  such Instructions as the present Circumstances will enable me to make out, for the Duke de Lauzun, are prepared & will meet him at Bedford by the Time of his Arrival at that Place.  I have the Honor to be—with perfect Respect & Consideration sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and very humble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 1 July 1781
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                  Sir,

                     Ridgebury 1st July 8 o’clock P.M. 1781

                  In this moment, I have received your Excellency’s Letter of this day in the morning.  The Duke de Lauzun shall certainly be to morrow at noon at Bedford, ready to receive your orders.  I hope to be there myself at the same hour and my 1st Brigade will arrive in the afternoon.  The 2d Brigade cannot join me at soonest before after to morrow.  To morrow in the evening, I shall expect at Bedford your Excellency’s orders, as to my marching beyond Bedford as soon as you think proper, either with the first Brigade, or all my corps united if the circumstances allow time enough for it.  I am with respect and personal attachment Sir, Your Excellency’s most obedient and humble Servant

                     le cte de rochambeau

                     our greatest difficulties are always about our subsistances, but we will endeavour to overcome them, if at Peeks’ kill, we can be helped, either by waggons or boats.


Title: To George Washington from Philip John Schuyler, 1 July 1781
From: Schuyler, Philip John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Albany Sunday July 1st 1781

                  I arrived here on the 29h ult. and was in hopes to have found the directions I sent from Poughkeepsie executing and the building of the batteaux already commenced but to my extreme mortification I had still to agree with the Carpenters, fourty eight of whom I yesterday engaged to begin the work on different days in the course of the ensuing week, and additional number will probably be Obtained here and I expect to employ fifty at least at Schenectady I hence I have no doubt but that one hundred batteaux will be compleated In very good time.
                  The Carpenters must necessarily work to much disadvantage, the expence increased and the completion of the business greatly retarded, unless regular supplies of the requisite materials are timely furnished, I fear a deficency of Oacum and nails.  of the former none is to be had here, and of the latter so small a quantity as will barely suffice for ten or twelve boats I am therefore driven to the necessity, in order to prevent a stop, of purchasing nails at the extravagant price of 2/9 in specie per pound, until Colo. Pickering forwards on a supply which I entreat he may be directed to do as expeditiously as possible, together with a sufficient quantity of Oakham, I have striven in vain to engage the Carpenters without an allowance of rum, they urged that as they were to receive no pay until a distant period, they could purchase none, and stipulated as a condition that I should at all events procure it, I have therefore to intreat Your Excellency to order three hogsheads to be sent up with as much dispatch as may be, and with directions that none of it be disposed of without my intervention as it will otherwise be certainly expended in a manner It ought not.
                  If more than one hundred batteaux are required, and means can be found to make payment for the additional numbers as the period stated in my letter of the 20th ult: I ought to be advised of It as early as possible.  I am Dr Sir with every friendly and affectionate wish and with perfect regard & Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Servant

                     Ph: Schuyler


Title: From George Washington to Elisha Sheldon, 1 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

                     SirHead Quarters Peekskill 21 July 1781

                  Agreable to the memorandum given yesterday to Colo. Jameson directing the March of the Troops under your Comand, I presume you will be at Bedford by the Time given, which is Tomorrow (the 2d)—by 12 oClock at Noon—at Bedford you will expect to be joined by the Duke de Lauzun, with the Legion under his Comand, who is to be there at the Time mentioned for your arrival—but should the Duke, by any Accident be retarded in his March & not come up by that Time, you will be pleased to let Lt Colo. Jameson proceed with the Infantry & mounted Troops of your Comand, agreeable to his Directions of Yesterday on their Way to Clapps, which Place they must Reach by Sunsett—yourself, rfmaing at Bedford untill the Duke Arrives, with whom you will proceed on your March to Clapps, where you will be joined by Genl Waterbury & the Troops under his Comand—The Duke will have my Instructions, conveyed to him by Colo. Hull, to take the Comand of the whole Body of Troops which will be assembled at Clapps, & to conduct their subsequent Movements & Operations—You will therefore put yourself & the Troops under his Direction & orders—as the Duke will be a Stranger to the Ground which will be the Scene of your Operations, you will be pleased to cooperate with him with Chearfulness, & lend him every Assistance, Information, Council & Advice that shall be in your Power—Colo. Hull, who conveys my Instructions to the Duke, will also accompany him in the Enterprize—his particular Knowlege & late Experience in that Part of the Country, will, I hope, be peculiarly usefull.  I am &ca

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Charles Stewart, 1 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Stewart, Charles

                     SirHead Quarters near Peekskill 1st July 1781.

                  You will perceive by the after orders of yesterday that the Army are to draw four days provision which I imagine will be sufficient to last them untill their return to Camp again—But as that may not be the case, and as it may be found expedient after our junction with the French Army to take a position lower down—you will keep all your Stores ready to move at a moments warning by land or Water—the Quarter Master General will furnish the means should there be occasion.
                  You will preserve all the live Cattle now upon hand or which may come in, untill further orders—as they can be expeditiously sent down should the army have occasion for them below—You will continue the baking of Hard Bread and will form as large a Magazine of salt provision at this place as you possibly can.  I am &ca.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 1 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.

                  My Dear Sir

                     Head Quarters Peekskill 1st July 1781

                  I am obliged again to trouble your Excellency with the Distress we are in for Want of Provisions to feed the Troops—by a Return from the Comsy Genl of Issues, we have received from the 12th of May to this Day only 312 Head of Cattle—& those in the followg Proportions—Vizt.
                  N. Hampshire30Massachusetts Bay230Connecticut 52312from this Supply, with the Help of Salted Provision, we have barely subsisted from Hand to Mouth—The Army is now Augmenting, & in the Field; yet our Prospects of Provisions rather seem on the decline, than otherwise; if we may judge from its actual Arrival.  very little having come on lately, & no Knowlege being had of any Supply on the Roads—thus circumstanced, I am obliged to declare, that unless more strenuous Exertions are made by the States to feed their few Troops in the Field, we shall be reduced to the Necessity not only to relinquish our intended Operations, but shall be obliged absolutely to disband for Want of Subsistence—or, which is almost equally to be lamented, the Troops will be obliged to seek it for themselves wherever it is to be found—either of these Circumstances takg Place, will put us into a most distressing Situation on our own Acct—and at the same Time place us in a most shamefull Point of View in the Eyes of our French Allies; & unhappily reduce them to a most disagreable Dilema.
                  Our Expectations lookg altogether to the Eastern States for a Supply of the Meat kind—I must entreat your Excellency, that every possible measure may be exerted, that your State may furnish its Quota of fresh Beef and that we may have a speedy Earnest of their Intentions.
                  I am informed that the Salted Provision begins to fail comg on—I hope your Quantity is not yet exhausted. That I may obtain a thorough Knowlege of what is not on Hand—on the Road & in the State—& that I may thereby be enabled to judge what our Dependance may be on that Article; I have desired Colo. Stewart C. Gen. of Issues to send on the Road, into your State, one of his most active & intelligent People, to make strict Enquiry, & to obtain a real Return of all he can find—& to urge the Necessity of imediate fowardg—If he should have Occasion to apply to your Excellency, I dare say you will give him every assistance & Information in your Power.  I have the honor to be—with perfect Esteem & Consideration sir Your Excellencys Most Obedt Servant

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  Mr Stevens will mention the Necessity of Rum—& the Deficiency from your State, of that Article.


Title: From George Washington to David Waterbury, 1 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Waterbury, David

                  sir

                     Head Quarters Peekskill 1st July 1781

                  I wrote you Yesterday pr Capt. Buckley—directg you to march with all the Troops you can collect under your Comand & form a Junction at Clapps in Kingstreet, with Colo. Sheldon, who is to be at that Place on the 2d instant.I am now to inform you that you will also be joined at the Same Time & place by the French Legion under the Comand of the Duke de Lauzun, who is a Brigadier in the Service of his most Christian Majesty; & an officer of Distinction, long Service & Merit—The Duke is to command the whole Troops which will be assembled at the Point mentioned—you will therefore be pleased on his Arrival to put yourself & Troops under his Orders & Comand—he being furnished with my Instructions for his Movement subsequent to meeting you at Clapp’s—as the Duke will be a Stranger to that Part of the Country which is to be the Scene of your Operations, it will be in your Power to give him much Assistance & Information, which I have not a Doubt but you will do with the greatest Chearfulness & Alacrity—the Service you will be called to is of great Moment, & will require to be executed with great Precaution, Attention, & Dispatch.  I am sir Your &ca

                     G.W.


Title: To George Washington from David Waterbury, 1 July 1781
From: Waterbury, David
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Stamford July 1st 1781

                  I received your Excellency’s Letter of the 30th of June and would inform your Excellency that the force I can collect will amount to about 350 men Officers included and your Excellency may depend that I will punctually attend aat the time and place you ordered me.  am with respect your Excellencys most Obt Humble Servant

                     David Waterbury


Title: General Orders, 2 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Tarrytown Monday July 2d 1781
                     Parole.
                     Countersigns

                  For the day Tomorrow
                  Brigadier General HuntingtonLieutenant Colonel BadlamMajor Trescott.Inspector _ Starks Brigade.No Drum to beat without particular order.
                  Officers and Soldiers are to refresh themselves and be within call of their Arms which are for the present to be stacked.
                  No person not belonging to the Army is to be permitted to pass through the Camp without being carried to the General or one of the field Officers of the day who will examine him or her very critically and suffer none to pass of suspicious Character or who does not give a satisfactory Account.
                  Peregrine Fitzhugh Esqr. Lieutenant in the third regiment of Dragoons is appointed an Extra Aid de camp to the Commander in Chief and to be respected accordingly.
                  Major Platt will for the present do the duty of Aid to Major General Lord Stirling and is to be respected as such.
                  Peter Taulman Esqr. Lieutenant in late Colonel Spencer’s Regiment is appointed Captain Lieutenant in the Corps of Sappers and Miners and is to obeyed accordingly.
                  The Commander in Chief cannot but express his satisfaction at the good order and regularity with which this day’s march has been executed.


Title: To George Washington from Theodorick Bland, 2 July 1781
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

                  Sr

                     Fairy Hill near the falls of Shuilkyll July 2d 1781

                  In my last I had the honor to inform yr Excelly that your letter which came enclosed to me directed to the Govr of Virginia was forwarded by express—the departure of the Chevr de La Luzerne for camp affords me this opportunity, of acquainting your Excellency that your request respecting the Rifflemen from this state has been this day enforced by a requisition of Congress, in the terms contained in your letter but not without some opposition from the delegates of this state, which excited no small surprize in me seeing the requisition was in every sense so necessary and proper—the Exertions of Rhode Island and some of the other states make a happy Contrast to this disposition.  We have great reason to believe from a letter of Col. Cary Sp. of the Sen. of Virginia, that Ninety Six fell before General Greene the latter end of May, as he mentions having seen a letter from a Capt. Pearce of the 24th of May who says the Enemy had made a sally but were repulsed with Considerable loss & there was little doubt but that a few days wd deliver it into our hands.  the same fate it is expected wd befall Augusta, but of this no certain intelligence has come to hand officially It may be some Satisfaction to your Excelly to be assured that Col. Cary has informed us that altho the Enemy have penetrated so far and in such force into our Country (Virginia) not twenty People have Joind them, and not one of those Natives, except Negroes—and a universal and unanimous Spirit of oposition prevails among all ranks of People, the same accounts inform us that the Marquis is above Six thousand strong—& that Lord Cornwallis is extremely weakend by sickness and desertion—the latter was low down on James River, & the Marquis below Richmond within 20 miles of him.  I was sorry to find on waiting on Mrs Washington that she has been indisposed, and hoping that the Country air will be more beneficial to her than the Town have requested that she will take up her Quarters with us at this place which I have some hopes she will do in a day or two as soon as she has rested from her fatigue We have no news from Virginia but what I have already related except, that Mr Nelson has been elected Governor—Mr Hardy and Mr McDowal Counsellors, Mr Blair & Mr Edmd Randolph added to and Mr M.. Smith Subtracted from the Delegation to Congress.  With most fervent wishes for a Happy and Successfull campaign I am with the greatest Sincerity and most perfect respect Yr Excellys Most obedt Servt

                     Theok Bland


Title: From George Washington to Edward Hand, 2 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Hand, Edward

                     Sir,

                        2 July 1781

                  You will take the Command of the detachment which is intended to Surprise the Enemy’s Posts on the end of York Island.
                  I entertain too high an opinion of your diligence abilities & judgment as an Officer, to restrict you by Instructions.  In the execution of this project you will consider what follows as hints which may be improved upon, or departed from, as circumstances warrant.
                  On the concealment of your movement previous to the Night destined for the enterprize the precautions, spirit, & celerity of your march by Land, depends your success.
                  It will be no difficult matter to keep the detachment under your orders ignorant of the object till you have passed the Post at Kingsbridge on which you would do well to confide the manoeuvre to the Field Officers, & use every possible precaution to prevent desertion, and to conceal the Boats, that they may not be discovered from the East shore; and if possible by any passage Boats on the River.  To effect these purposes no Boat under any pretence whatever to Land or arrive at the first place of concealment before dark.  The detachment be preceeded by a Van-guard of Men, who shall take possession of the ground the detachment is to halt at, and form a close chain of Sentries before the detachment arrives, with orders to forbid any one under pain of instant death go without the lines.  To effect the Second, i.e. the concealment of the boats Let there be Bows cut and struck without them, them as circumstances will admit.  No fire to be kindled, or admitted on any Acct.  The men not be permitted to be walk about, not even the sentries (who should have Bayonets only in their hands during the day, lest the glittering of their Arms should discover them).
                  You ought not to pass the Island or Fort Montgomery and the Dunderberg till it is dark lest you should be discovered by the light  or the Inhabitants of Peekskill.  It is most desirable to pass the Posts at Kings-ferry undiscovered, but unless the night should be exceedingly dark, and the Sentries remiss, it is scarcely to be expected.  It will be necessary therefore that a confidential person be near the Sentry on each side the river to say to him
                     if he should challenge that they are Boats with provision and stores, and a relief for the Post at Dobbs Ferry.  If contrary to expectation the Boats by keeping in the middle of the River, and in compact order, should pass undiscovered, then let these confidential persons also go off unnoticed.
                  The Boats should keep the middle of the River until they have passed the Docks by Noels, and then hug the Jersey shore for fear of missing their Halting place, which will be on the West side nearly opposite to, but  below Tellers point, and just round the Verdrieteges hook, where there is a small spot (notwithstanding  high and craggy Bank) where the detachment may lye concealed.  This place as far as my memory serves me is between a quarter & half a mile below the landing (Slaughters) from whence a road leads up to  by . Here the detachment and  to remain concealed all the succeeding day.  must be discovered by the Vanguard previous to the arrival of the detachment to prevent delay, and the chain of Sentries may be formed before
                     troops are debarked for the purposes already mentioned.
                  After dark the detachment will embark and then proceed down the River, keeping the middle there-of until they pass the Post at Dobbs’s ferry, when they must at once get under the Jersey shore and keep it close until they come to the Vineyard, where they are to Land and remain concealed all the next day, observing the same precautions as before, till night.  Captn Pray will have Instructions previous to this for his conduct, that his guard Boats may not give an alarm & discover the design, but made to subserve to it as much as possible.  At this place the Officers & men should divest themselves of every kind of Baggage also their Blankets, which may all be deposited under the charge of an Officer with such men as may be judged least capable of the enterprise—the Officer is to be instructed to move up the River with the Baggage an hour before day if he does not see and hear the signals of success, and for this purpose he is to have Boats left with him, of the heaviest kind.
                  It is at this place that the design is to be fully unfolded, & every Officer made perfectly master of the part he is to act; and too much pains cannot be taken to impress it upon the Minds of all, that surprises if well concerted seldom or never fail except through misconception of orders, blunders in the execution of them, intemperate zeal, or want of courage; the one they are going upon will be bright and glorious, or disgraceful and ruinous, as it may be well or ill executed; & that most important good effects will result from the former.
                  Here the parties for the different assults, the reserve, & for the Van-guard of each storming party (which will become the forlorn hope after the main body be told of; & not only the first, but the second officer in the command of each, be informed in the most exact terms what he is to do.  the Van guard or forlorn hope should be composed of choice Officers, and men of known Bravery, & known fidility.  such as will promptly enter action in the first place, & will not be impeded by trifles when they come to the assault.  & who will be able by stratagy and resolution to decoy & seize Sentries,  parties which may fall in their way as well; in a word, it is at this place that all your attention for embarking, debarking, and advancing to the attack by Land should be made; in doing which, certain contingencies which may happen should be thought of & provided for as far as possible.
                  That you may be certain of arriving at the place of debarkation in season (which at f think should be by two o’clock or, perhaps would be ) you should be ready soon as it is sufficiently dark, especially if the Wind should be adverse (for it is better to have hours to spare than to be two minutes after the time for the attack), keep close under the high banks of the Jersey shore, with a light Boat on your Flank, but not far distant, and a Boat a head which instructed what to do in case it should meet a Boat of the Enemy.  It may not be amiss for this advance Boat to halt before it comes into view of the House below Fort Lee, till the whole Line comes up.  or if it be judged improper to delay a moment so directly opposite to the enemy’s works then to keep slowly on to  from whence they will strike directly across  setting a drift softly & slyly, every vessel along  to prevent intelligence getting over.
                  The place which, in my opinion, is most favorable for landing the detachment, is directly  to the large White house belonging to Colo. Morris, in which it is said Genl Musgrove Quarters.  The place I mean is a hollow, a little above the redoubts we built upon the eminences, or little Knowles West and Southerly of the above House, about five or 600 yards above the only house wch  the heights on the bank of the No. River in all  part of the Island when we were upon it, which I believe to be the case at this day.

                     From hence I would proceed up that hollow if  Barracks or Washing Womens Hutts in them, ft of them if there are, till you gain the height; then proceed, leaving the common Post road on your   you come within sight of what formerly was  blue Bell tavern on which General Fox Quarters which is about 200 yards from Fort Knyhausen, and at least 6 or 700 from Fort George on Laurel hill.  Fort Tryon in your then position, lyes  yards back of the first work (Knyphausen) which the assaulting party must pass, as they will also have to do Barracks which lye between the two Forts Knyphausen and Tryon.
                  Here it is, i.e. near the Bell Tavern the party for Fort George Breaks of; and as it is the most important point to us, and to which all others should in a manner lead.  Sufficient time should be allowed for the party destined for the attack of it, to advance; this being done, the different parties move together in one Column with a sufficient interval between, to mark distinctly the seperation, that for Fort Knyphausen (which is to be in Front) commencing the attack, at which moment the other column  off, leaves the Fort upon their right, and hastens with as much speed as is consistent with order, to Fort George under the character of fugitives flying for Shelter being cut off (they are to declare) from the other fort, for the alarm must reach the Troops in this fort before the party can get to it.  stratagem therefore may be practiced, but is not to be relied on, to get admittance in the first instance.  I am of opinion if no alarm is given before the Troops get to the point of debarkation, that the enemy will have so little suspicion of our Troops being in their rear, that the Parties for Forts Knyphausen & Tryon may creep (first feeling their way by single Officers) within one hundred yards of the former, if the night is dark, and lay concealed till the attack begins seriously at Fort George, when both parties are to rush forward to their respective objects.  These parties are to leave the blue Bell on their right.
                  It appears to me that a proper disposition of our force will be—one third for the attack of Fort George—another third for Forts Knyphausen & Tryon, (of which 2/3 for the former) and the remaining third to be held as reserve, to support, bring off, or make prisoners, according to circumstances, or as near this as circumstances will admit.
                  To say decidely what ought to be done in case of partial success, is very difficult and would be equally imprudent, because the circumstances at the moment—on the spot—might fully alter a distant previous view of matters  but from my present conception of
                        of opinion, that nothing less than full possession of the two principal works, Fort George and Fort Knyphausen, can justify an attempt on New York or keep Troops on the Island, lest they be cut off; unless Fort George should  is a moral certainty of possessing  case the danger cannot be great as  there are Boats, may be secured by  with the main.
                  If the two principal Works should be taken not a moment should be lost in attempting Fort Charles at the bridge, by a stratagem like the one before mentioned—by a resolute push or even assault, as it may be effected much the same way when the enemy are confused, and under the influence of a panic, than afterwards, & may be of the same importance to us.
                  The Artillery men are to be provided with Rockets, one of which, and no more, is to be fired, at the Work that is carried, as the signal of success  these, after the conflict is over, & order restored as a further signal is to be fired distinctly at   minute Intervals, to announce what Works are carried.  Let Eight be the signal for Fort Knyphausen— four for Fort George—two for Fort Tryon—and one for each of the smaller Works—these several signal guns must be fired at an Interval of ten minutes each, that is between the Eight—the four—and the two and if all these Works are carried, or the principal ones, with either of the small ones, namely that at the bridge, or No. 8, as a means to announce  an hour after firing the signal guns before mentioned Thirteen Cannon are to be discharged in regular succession, and after day light, every work in our possesion is to hoist any other coloured handkerchief  white, on a staff fixed in the Parapet; and upon the firing of three muskets regularly by any party on the  each work so possessed, is to answer then by five muskets  these are to be the Signals of recognizance on, and off, the Island.
                  You must leave a guard with the Boats wch must not be brought from the place of debarkation till the n, & authentic orders can be conveyed to rly movement up the River may give an  guard on, or near the Water—and will afford a Retreat in case of disappointment much ous than it would be to the point of debarkation which is known to every Officer & Soldier of the detachment, & easier attained, altho the distance  far it may be thought expedient to atture of the Commanding Officer at Morris’ White House) you will consider; never for  secondary objects are to yield to the principal and that it too often happens that by attempting a great deal, little is performed, from the  unforeseen obstacles that interrupt communications; which depend upon time—nice dis in the executive Officers, and oftentimes upon matters which no human foresight can guard agt.
                  If you should be discovered by the Ships, or have Reason to suppose the Forts are apprised of your moveents, and in consequence, the enterprise is relinquished without attempting to pass the Ships  to delay no time in Landing a Party on the east side of the River at Dobbs’ ferry (Philips’s wd  till better) and order them to proceed immediately up the lower Road towards Peekskill and Halt the supporting column which will be marching on that Road to Kings Ferry.  In case you should pass the Ships undiscovered, but be disappointed of your object with the loss of your Boats (which in that event are to be stove to pieces or Burnt) you are to send an Express (upon an sed horse) with as much expedition as possible to Dobbs’s Ferry, thereto cross, that the supporting Troops may be halted and Counter marched—besides the notice thus given, if the enemy should not cross over to Fort Lee, which is exceedingly improbable, a party should March along the Margin of the River from Fort Lee, and make a large smoak at some prominent point, nearly opposite to Philips’s.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Knox, 2 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

                     Dear SirHead Quarters Peekskill 2d July 1781.

                  I have recd your favor of the 29th ulto.  The arrangement which you have made for the periods of transportation of the heavy Stores from Philada agrees perfectly with my Ideas of the matter, as I think we must be certainly able to determine ultimately upon our plan of operations, by the time they are to be in motion.
                  An enterprize, which I have long had in contemplation, will be executed in the course of this night, if Genl Lincoln, who commands the operating party, finds the attack advisable upon reconnoitering the situation of the enemy, and he can do it by surprise.  The enterprise is against the posts upon the North End of York Island.  The remainder of the Army marched this morning towards Kings bridge. part of the French Troops were last night at Ridgebury and will be at Bedford this evening.  They will, in the course of tomorrow, be at hand to support us should there be occasion.  At the same time that the posts upon York Island are attempted, I have planned a surprise upon Delanceys Corps at Morrisania, which is to be executed by the Duke de Lauzun in conjunction with Sheldons Regt and Waterbury’s State Troops.
                  Should we succeed in the attempt upon the posts, every effort will be made to hold them, and your assistance will be materially necessary.  I shall take the speediest method of communicating the event to Genl Mcdougal at West point, who will fire the Alarm Guns and Beacons as signals for the Governor, who will bring out the Militia to our support.  You will therefore take it for granted that we have succeeded, if you see or hear the signals.  You will, in such case immediately come down, leaving Colo. Stevens to put every thing in readiness to follow.  I am with very great  Dear Sir Your most obt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Knox, 2 July 1781
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                     Sir,
                     Peekskill 2 July 1781.

                  I came to this place to day to take your Excellency’s ultimate directions when the Park should join the army, and to take any other orders your Excellency should please to give me; but I was disappointed by the army and your Excellency having moved.
                  I presume the laboratory preparations will be in such forwardness by Sunday next, that we might then move without retarding any thing material.  The artificers must remain longer.If your Excellency should think fit to alter the time of arrival of the Stores from Philadelphia, I pray you to write to the Board of War on the subject.

                  If your Excellency should be engaged in any operation which you intend to lead to immediate action, I hope I may with confidence expect your summons, ever previous to the time mentioned above.
                  I beg the favor of a speedy answer, and am your Excellency’s most obed. serv.t

                     H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Lincoln, 2 July 1781
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear General
                     Dobbs Ferry 2 July 1781

                  We arrived and landed our troops here between three & four this morning immediately our boats were covered with green boughs & our men  in a neghbouring wood many things combined to cause a failure of landg as first proposed Majr Darby miss under stood Majr Bayley respecting the place the Boats were to be carried which prevented his finding them this caused a delay of one hour after we had to contend with the evils of over loaded & leaky boats poor oars men & wind & tide part of the time against us.
                  Early in the morning I set off with Colo. scamel for Fort Lee—on my arriving near it I found my self in full view of the  encampments.
                  They have encamped so far as we could discover and
                        illegible lately see the shady
                     line illegible
                      to compleat  regiments in the Howland north of Fort Trion—They have one regiment in tirely just by Fort St George the  have been represented to join  This State of matters alone being so different from what was expected would have induced me to give up the thought of attempting what was first proposed—But did none of these  the  of the ship (which is oppte to the incampment I first mentioned & near the middle of the river) would with the  age of the moon & state of the tide would have been sufficient to have rendered abortive a plan which under other circumstancs would have had the highest  of success for if we go down with the Ebb so as to make little use of our oars then it would be at a time when the moon would give so much Light as would give an oppertunity of  a boat near two mils If we wait untill the moon setts we must so  contend with the flood tide as  not withstandg the precautions to prevent it will be  at a long distance Colo. Scamel illegible with me in opinion

                  If I hear nothing to the contrary from your Exclly I shall endeavour fully to carry into   object.  I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Benjamin Lincoln, 2 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

                  Dear Sir

                     Heights of Tarry Town July 2nd 1781

                  I have this moment received your favor, and have only to express my wish that you will cross as soon as possible & take possession of the Heights of Kings Bridge so as to support the Duke de Lauzun & prevent the Enemy from attempting to cut him off by that way or to prevent their retreating if they are out.
                  I shall be at Valentines Hill in Mile Square by tomorrow morning if practicable.  I am Dear Sir your Most Obedt Hble Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander McDougall, 2 July 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

                     Dear SirHead Quarters Peeks kill 2d July 1781.

                  I inform you in full confidence that an attempt is to be made this night by surprise upon the enemy’s posts upon the North end of York Island.  I move down with the remainder of the Army towards Kings bridge and expect the French Troops will form a junction with me, or will be very near at hand to support me.  In case of success I shall contrive you the most instantaneous intelligence upon which you will cause the Beacons and Alarm Guns to be fixed, which are to be signals to the Governor to call out and march the Militia to my support, for I take it for granted the enemy will make every effort to regain their posts.  I have already written to the Governor and have prepared him for this matter.  But as he may not distinctly see or hear the signals you will dispatch an Express to him upon hearing from me.  You will give notice to the parties stationed at the Beacons to set fire to them upon your firing some certain number of Cannon.  There were parties at the Beacons.  If there are none now they should immediately be sent.  I am with much Esteem Dear Sir your most obt Servt

                     Go: Washington

                     You will be pleased immediately to forward the inclosed to Genl Knox.