Title: To George Washington from Major General Philemon Dickinson, 17 September 1777
From: Dickinson, Philemon
To: Washington, George

Sir
Col: Quicks Farm 8 Miles from Brunswick [N.J.]Septemr 17th 1777—12, OClock at Night

By Express this moment arrived from Brigr Gen. Wines at Hackingsack, I am informed the Enemy have crossed the North River, & totally evacuated the Jersies—Gen: Wines say’s, their Number from the best Information he could collect, was near four thousand Men, & that General Clinton was certainly with them. Should this Intelligence be true, I have wrote Gen: McDougall, (who I am informed is near Hackingsack) to march his Brigade with expedition, to join the Army under your Excellency’s immediate command.
This has been a Grand Foraging Party of the Enemy, as the Express, who is a very Intelligent Man, say’s, tis generally imagined they have taken off two thousand Head of Cattle—Gen: Wines has collected about 1500 Militia, who turned out upon the present Alarm, they being unprovided with Blankets & other necessaries, at the Generals request have leave to return home for a few Days, & are then ordered to join me at Elizabeth Town—I shall march about 1,000 Men to’morrow Evening to that Post, where I expect to be reinforced in a few Days, with between 1500, & 2,000 Militia—& shall wait your Excellency’s further Orders.
Our Militia at different Times, since the Enemy’s late incursion into this State, took 17 Prisoners—there has been some little skirmishing,

in which we had Eight or ten Men wounded—This part of the State being quite defenceless, since the Continental Troops were removed, the Enemy have been determined to furnish themselves with a large supply, which I am very apprehensive they have effected. I have the honor to be, Your Excellency’s most Obt Sert

Philemon Dickinson


Title: From George Washington to Colonel William Malcolm, 17 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

Camp at Yellow Springs in pensylvaniaSeptr 17th 1777.
Sir

I have been favourd with your Two Letters of the 13th & 14th Instants. At present, the situation of our Affairs will not justifie any of the Independt Companies being attached to your Regiment, whatever may be the case in future; And having regard to the public interest and knowing the small prospect there is of raising of Men at this crisis, I do not think myself authorized to commission either of the Gentlemen you mention, As it would be multiplying the number of Officers and incurring an additional expence with but a very remote, if any, probability of augmenting our Force.
I think with you, that it will be necessary that some Troops should winter where you propose—but the Number, I cannot now determine on; However, I would wish you to pay attention to the Barracks & direct the earliest repair of them to be made. As to laying up Magazines of

provision & Forage, I shall speak to the Gentlemen under whose notice these Matters more properly fall.
I have nothing more to add, than my wishes that your utmost exertions may be employed to counteract and defeat the progress of the Enemy now in Jersey as far as tis in your power, having special regard to the Security of the pass leading through the Mountains to the Highland Fortifications. I cannot prescribe any particular line of conduct for you upon this occasion, but shall leave you to act in such a way, as shall seem best calculated to annoy the Enemy and advance the public Service. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt servt

Go: W—ton


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 17 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

Sir
Yellow Springs [Pa.] 17th Septr 1777

Upon examining the State of our Ammunition I find it so generally hurt by the Rain that we are not in Condition to make a stand against the Enemy—I have therefore thought best to move up towards Warwick Furnace in order to obtain a Supply from the other side Schuylkill & have given orders accordingly Genl Greene[’s] Division remains here & Genl Wayne’s between this & Warwick untill the Baggage can be got off—I would have you remain where you are untill that part of the Baggage & stores at the Valley can be got away, which I wish to be effected as expeditiously as possible, & then Join us at Warwick by the shortest Route Genl Potter had best remain with you.
should you want Horses for the Removal of the Baggage—you will be under the necessity of Pressing them.
As I dont wish you to remain a Moment longer than is necessary for covering the Baggage you will take care to be inform’d of it as soon as it happens by sendg an Officer for that purpose. I am &c.

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Thomas Mifflin or an Assistant Quartermaster, 17 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Mifflin, Thomas,Assistant Quartermaster

Sir
Yellow Springs [Pa.] 17th Sepr 1777

I desire you will immediately move the Baggage and Ammunition from the place where you are at present to Warwick Furnace. Colo. Evans, the Bearer of this, is kind enough to undertake to pilot you by the safest and best Rout. No time is to be lost in the Execution of this Business and I think if you were to impress a few Waggons and lighten the others of part of their loads it would be better as the Roads are so exceedingly bad. The Baggage and Ammunition that is at present at perkioming is to move up to Pottsgrove. I am Sir &c.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Smallwood, 17 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Smallwood, William

Sir
Camp [Yellow Springs, Pa.] Sepr 17th 1777

As it may be dangerous for the Troops under your command to act alone, and the service may be more advanced by drawing Our Whole Force together, I earnestly request, that you will form a junction with the Main Army as soon, as you possibly can. We shall be at Warwick Furnace, on French Creek to Morrow Evening. The Enemy are now posted near the White Horse Tavern on the Road leading from Lancaster to Philadelphia. I cannot mark out any particular Rout for you, as that will depend upon the situation of the Enemy, of which you will obtain the best information in your power, that you may be secure in your Line of March. There is One Futhay, about Two Miles this side Cockran’s, who is said to be a Trusty person and acquainted with the Country. I must once more urge the necessity of the utmost expedition. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt Sert.


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Armstrong, Sr., 18 September 1777
From: Armstrong, John Sr.
To: Washington, George

Dear General
[Schuylkill] Falls [Pa.] 18th Sepr 17778 OClock P.M.

I wrote you last Night at this hour respecting One hundred Cattle which are now Safe at Sweeds Ford.
Upon examining repeatedly the disposition of the Militia from Greys Ferry to the ford last mention’d, I cou’d not See the least use especially from Troops of this Sort, in a Situation So far detatched—joined to this the great probability of the Enemies looking more immediately to Sweedsford, where Tory intelligence also assert they are to pass, I have this afternoon determin’d to draw up the Men to Sweeds Ford & given Orders accordingly, leaving One Flat necessarily employed at the middle Ferry to be guarded by the invalids of the City—The apprehension that you might possibly come to action some where near that place was also a Secret motive—I have Ordered yesterday Several Iron pieces Sixes & fours instead of which they have Sent two twelves of which Size we had two before. To morrow evening I expect the Troops with three pieces of lesser Size, & One Company of Artillery from Fort Island where I understood there were three, but wou’d not have called any from that place had I not sent a Company the day before Yesterday with the two Brass pieces we had to join you—The Island I know can again be Supplyed by Volunteers from the City. General Ried has now met me & Says the Company & two pieces Sent General Knox are again return’d not knowing where to find you, or rather not being able to get up, but that he advised another & Safer Route which I hope they have taken, having a guard of One hundred Men. ’tis computed that Sweeds Ford may be passed to morrow afternoon by foot as today it has been rode, but deep. In two days I expect our numbers may be about Eleven hundred. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

John Armstrong


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 18 September 1777
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

My dear Sir
Schuylkill Falls [Pa.] Sepr 18. 1777. 9’Clock P.M.

I wrote before this Day & have procured a Parcel of Maps which not knowing of this Oppty or of my being down here I must defer sending till tomorrow. I cannot help acquainting you, my dear General that the Distance of the Army from the City & its March so remote has given great Alarm & very much discourages the Militia, if any real Service is expected—I do not doubt you have sufficient Reasons for a Measure which seems so mysterious—but if you could consistently with your Plan disclose them it would have a happy Effect on the Minds of the People to put it in the Power of those you can confide in to give proper Explanations—I came down to this Place this Evening at Genl Armstrong’s Desire but shall return early in the Morning to the Swedes Ford—where we have the Works in some Forwardness—I shall take Care that you be informed of every material Occurrence in this Quarter but cannot close my Postscript to the Generals Letter without mentioning that I have seen an Officer of the Artillery who has made his Escape from Wilmington who says that the Troops advanced into the Country are only the light Troops & pick’d Men—that they think our Army is totally defeated. That their main Body lays at & below Chester

& between that & Wilmington. I am in great Haste but much greater Affection & Regard Dear Sir Your Obliged & Obed.

J. Reed

Genl Armstrong desires me to add that he should have consulted you upon the Movement he has made if he did not apprehend that Procrastination would be very dangerous & perhaps fatal.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 18 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

Sir
Reading furnace [Pa.] septr 18th 1777

As I have receiv’d Information that the Enemy have turn’d down that Road from the White Horse which leads to Swedes Ford on Schuylkill I have to desire that you will Halt your Troops wherever this Meets you if coming this way & set them to Cleaning their Arms drawing Ammunition & Cooking Provision.
I must call your utmost Exertion in fitting yourselves in the best manner you can for following & Harrassing their Rear—Genl Maxwell will have a Similar Order & will Assist you with the Corps under his command.

the Army here is so much fatigued that it is impossible I should move them this Afternoon. I shall expect by return of the light Horse Man to know where you are & when it will be in power to Comply with this Order. I am Sir your mo. Obed. Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. Anthony Wayne, 18 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. Anthony Wayne, 18 Sept. 1777. GW wrote in his second letter to Wayne of this date: “I have this Instt recd yours of ½ after 3 Oclock.”


Title: General Orders, 19 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters  Septr 19th 1777.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 19 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Dear Sir
[c.19 September 1777]

Your favor of the 12th instant was delivered me last night. I recollect, that Permission was granted Mrs Hatfield to visit her Husband, & had not the least Doubt, but she would be suffered to return whenever she had an Inclination, unless some singular Circumstances should render it ineligible for a Day or two. Her Detention seems to be by the Mayor, to whom she was referred for a Passport. As Mrs Hatfield is not in the military Line & went in of her mere motion, I do not conceive, that I can with Propriety do any thing to obtain her releasement. But I am persuaded, your Letter to General Clinton representing the reasons for her going in, will effect it without Difficulty. It would be well to write her a Line to apply to him upon the subject.
I have not Time to add much on public Affairs. I am now about twenty five Miles from Philadelphia on the East Side of Schuylkill with the Main Body of our Army, fronting the Enemy, who are on the

opposite Side. We have also a Body of Troops hanging on their rear, under the Command of Genls Smallwood & Wayne. I suppose General Howe will soon attempt to pass the Schuylkill, which, unhappily admits of but too many easy Fords. I cannot give You the Particulars of the Action of the 11th. From the best Accounts I have been able to collect, their Loss was pretty considerable & chiefly fell on their Grenadiers & Light Troops, composing their flying Army. The Queens Rangers (Roger’s Corps) who formed their Advanced Guard, & who were first attacked in the Morning are said to have suffered severely. This Account I mean for yourself & not for the Public. I am Dr Sir with great Regard & Esteem, your most Obed. Sert

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Maj. Gen. Philemon Dickinson, 19 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Dickinson, Philemon

Letter not found: to Maj. Gen. Philemon Dickinson, 19 Sept. 1777. Dickinson wrote GW on 20 Sept.: “I . . . have had the honor of receiving your Favor of Yesterday’s date.”


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 19 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Parkers Ford—on Schuylkill [Pa.] Septr 19: 1777 ¾ after 5. P.M.
Sir

I was honoured this Morning with your Favors of the 17th & 18th, with their Inclosures. I am much obliged to Congress for the late instance of their Confidence, expressed in their Resolution of the 17th, and shall be happy if my conduct in discharging the Objects, they had in view should be such as to meet their approbation.
I am now repassing the Schuylkill at Parkers Ford, with the Main body of the Army, which I hope will be over in an hour or Two though the water is deep & rapid. Genl Wayne with the Division under his command is in the Rear of the Enemy, and will be joined to Morrow or next day, I expect, by Genl Smallwood and Colo. Gist with their Corps. As soon as the Troops have crossed the River, I shall march them as expeditiously as possible towards Fat Land—Sweds & the Other Fords, where it is most probable the Enemy will attempt to pass. When I left German Town with the Army, I hoped, I should have had an Opportunity of attacking them either in Front or on their Flank with a prospect of success—But unhappily a variety of Causes have concurred to prevent it. Our March in the first place was greatly impeded thro the want of provissions, which delayed us so long, that the Enemy were apprized of our Motions and gained the Grounds near the White Horse Tavern

with a part of their army—turning our right Flank, whilst Another part composing the Main body were more advanced towards our Left. We should have disappointed them in their design by getting on their Left, but unfortunately, the Heavy Rain which fell that Evening & in the course of the night, totally unfitted our Guns for service and destroyed nearly the Whole of the Ammunition with which the Army had been compleated a day or Two before, amounting to Forty Rounds ⅌ Man. At first I expected, that the loss was by no means so considerable and intended to file off with the Troops a few Miles to replace it & clean their arms, & then to proceed on my original plans but upon examination found it, as I have mentioned, and that we had not a sufficient supply with us to furnish the Men with the necessary Complemen⟨t.⟩ In this situation it was judged necessary that we should proceed as far as Reading Furnace for the Security of the Army. Owing to these Acciden⟨ts⟩ particularly the latter Matters have not been conducted, as I intended & wished, and the Enemy have had an Opportunity of making their Advances without being attacked. I Yet hope, from the present State of the River, that I shall be down in time to give them a meeting, and if unfortunately they should gain Philadelphia, that it will not be without loss. I have the honor to be with great respect Sir Your Most Obedt Servant

Go: Washington

N.B. The Main body of the Enemy afterwards moved towards the White Horse & took their Rout down the Road from thence. I should have advised you this Morning by Express of the Enemy’s advance & situation—had not Colo. Hamilton informed me that he had written you on the Subject.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Henry Emanuel Lutterloh, 19 September 1777
From: Lutterloh, Henry Emanuel
To: Washington, George

[c.19 September 1777]

N.B. if from each Brigade was ordered an officer to bring all unnecessary Guards whi[c]h are Gone allong with the Baggage it would strenghten the Regiments.
There is a great Complain[t], That where ever our Baggage marches—they Soldiers & Waggoners plunder all houses & destroy every thing. it is the Waggon Masters Genl or his deputys duty as allso the Commanding officers—Sergts &ca to prevent this Cruel actions.
The Deputy Wagon Master or the Waggon Master Genl ought to remain with us allways—as it is his duty to Keep the Waggons & Waggon Masters in order—which March with the Army. Two Issuing forage Masters ought at least march with Head-quarters allways—One of the Comissarys Generals Ought to March with Head-quarter allways to Keep his Issuing Commissarys in order & to give orders for Waggons &c. &c.

H. E. Lutterloh


Title: To George Washington from John Page, 19 September 1777
From: Page, John
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Williamsburg [Va.] September 19th 1777.

Not having received the least Intelligence of your situation, or the disposition of the Enemy for seventeen days past, and knowing that they were then so stationed, that possibly they or their adherents may have intercepted dispatches of importance, from you, or Congress to this State, I have thought it proper to send an Express to your Excellency, and to our Delegates, that if any of your Letters have failed, you may, by this opportunity, send Copies of them, or such others as your present situation may render necessary. This Step appears the more expedient, as the Delay or Miscarriage of important Dispatches might be attended with great inconveniencies at this critical Juncture. If you have sent no Dispatches we hope at least to have the Satisfaction of being releived from our great Anxiety and Suspense, by the return of our Express. I wish not to intrude upon you, Sir, when so many important objects engage your attention—I would not even have you write a Line, in answer to this I shall be happy if I can hear from any of your Secretarys, or from Captain Pierce our Agent, that you enjoy your health, and that Affairs are as you could wish—as soon as it was known here that the Enemy were landed and advancing towards Philadelphia, the Governor by the advice of the Council discharged all the Militia of the adjacent Counties, which left three Battalions, consisting of about seventeen hundred men—but I suppose General Nelson has informed you of this—We wish on this account to have the earliest intelligence of the Motions of the Enemy, and the return of their Fleet, that we may be prepared to oppose their cruel ravages—should they chuse to let

loose their disappointed rage on Virginia. I am Sir, wishing you all health and happiness, and the success and glory you deserve: with the sincerest esteem and highest respect Your much obliged and most obedient humble Servant

John Page


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Smallwood, 19 September 1777
From: Smallwood, William
To: Washington, George

Sir,
James Mechlans Tavern [Pa.] September 19th 1777

Last Night Colonel Gist joined me he has * Troops—our united Force amounts to §. I am now on my march and rest assured every Effort shall be exerted to §§—as expeditiously as possible which I hope to effect Tomorrow—the Shameful neglect in the Commissarys Department throws many Obstacles in my way and retards my March—I am reduced to the Necessity of sending Officers forward to provide for the Troops which has been the case ever since I set out notwithstanding I have acquainted Mr Buchannan with this Defect I cannot obtain any Remedy—once more allow me to assure you that my utmost endeavours shall be exerted to comply with your Requisitions of yesterday—I have—† this County Lieut. and others of Integrity with me but cannot ascertain my Route so precisely as to point it out. my Baggage I shall send by §—but believe I shall fall more down to the Right with the troops. in much haste I have the honor to be yr Excellency’s most Obedt Sert

W. Smallwood


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 19 September 1777
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Paoli [Pa.] ½ After 7 OClock A.M. 19th Sepr 1777
Dear General

On the Enemies Beating the Revellee I ordered the Troops under Arms and began our March for their left flank—But when we Arrived within a half a Mile of their Encampment found they had not Stired—but lay too Compact to admit of an Attack with prudence—Indeed their Supineness Answers every purpose of giving you time to get up—if they Attempt to move I shall Attack them at all Events.
this Moment Capt. Jones of Blands Dragoons brought in som prisoners—three of them belonging to the Queens Rangers & One Artillery man, they dont seem to know much about the Movements of the Enemy Nor the loss they Sustained at Brandywine but have heard it was very great.
There never was—nor never will be a fairer Opportunity of giving the Enemy a fatal Blow than the present, for God sake push on as fast as possible. Interim I am your Excellencies Most Huml. Sert

Anty Wayne


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Philemon Dickinson, 20 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Dickinson, Philemon
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Philemon Dickinson, 20 Sept. 1777. Dickinson wrote GW later on this date: “I wrote your Excellency this morning.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philemon Dickinson, 20 September 1777
From: Dickinson, Philemon
To: Washington, George

Elizabeth Town [N.J.] 20th September 1777–6, OClock P.M.
Sir

I wrote your Excellency this morning, since which have had the honor of receiving your Favor of Yesterday’s date—Your Excellency will be much surprized to hear, there are not more than one thousand of our Militia now embodied, all of which are at this Post—since the receipt of your Excellency’s Letter, I have been considering in what way

I could most speedily reinforce the Army under your Excellency’s Command, as that is the Object; and am clearly of Opinion that the most expeditious, is to march the Troops from this Post, & collect what Numbers I can upon our March—I shall therefore order all the Guards called in before Day, & march with the utmost Expedition, the Rout directed—Your Excellency may be assured, my utmost exertions shall not be wanting, upon the present occasion.
I flatter myself, I shall be able in a short time, to bring on a Reinforcement of two thousand Men—had it not have been for the late unlucky alarm in this State, I have great reason to believe, I should have crossed the Delaware with 4,000 men—I have order’d Gen. Wines to collect & march his Brigade to this Post, with all Dispatch—This State, will be in a very defenceless Situation, & there is little doubt, but the Enemy will soon be apprized of it, & make a visit—I am a little apprehensive many of the Men will desert us before we cross the Delaware, having dreadfull Apprehensions from the vicinity of the Enemy—every precaution shall be used to keep them together, & bring them on speedily. I have the honor to be, Your Excellency’s most Obt Servt

Philemon Dickinson


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 20 September 1777
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Second River [N.J.] Sepr 20th 1777. 6 A.M.

I had the Honor of addressing your excellency; on the 17th from Tapan. Colonel Durkee returned in the Evening; and brought unquestiable intelligence, that the Enemy had returned to Fort Washington, Newyork and Bergen; and from the last place to Staten Island. The next morning I marched for Paramus, in order to Collect Provisions; to Supply me on my March to join your Excellency; which I accomplished at midnight. The Succeeding morning, I began my march for this place, and arrived at Sun set, having marched 24 miles.
The Troops are now Paraded, and shall continue my march with all the dispatch, which will comport with their being Serviceable to you, when I have the pleasure to reach you. I have not determined where to Cross Rariton till I get to New-ark, or Elizabeth Town, that will depend on information I shall receive of the Shortest and best Route. I have the Honor to be, Your Excellency’s Humble Servant

Alexr McDougall


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 20 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dear Sir
Near Fatland Ford [Pa.] 20th Sepr 1777

As it seems most probable to me that the Enemy will ford the River upon our Right, I desire you will immediately send parties to break up and throw Obstructions in the landing places of all the Fords from Richardsons at least as high as parkers where we crossed Yesterday. Advise the Officers who superintend, not to neglect such as the Country people tell them are difficult, because at such places the Enemy will be most likely to pass, thinking we shall pay least attention to them. Let a Subaltern and twelve Men constantly remain at each of Fords to give Notice of the approach of the Enemy, and besides these keep a small party or two under proper Officers upon the left Wing of the Enemy, to see that they do not steal a march upon our right. Any other precautions that seem, in your opinion, best calculated to prevent a surprize you will please to put in practice. I am Dear Sir ⟨your mos⟩t obt Servt

⟨Go: Washington⟩

P.S. Collo. Moylan will keep parties of Horse constantly over the River.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Washington, 20–22 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Samuel Washington, 20–22 Sept. 1777. GW wrote his brother Samuel on 27 Oct.: “Your Letter by my Nephew Thornton, begun on the 20th of last Mo. and ended the 22d came safe to my hands.”


Title: From George Washington to Brig. Gen. Anthony Wayne, 20 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

Letter not found: to Brig. Gen. Anthony Wayne, 20 Sept. 1777. Wayne wrote GW on 21 Sept.: “Whilst I am writing I received yours of the 20th.”


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Walton White, 20 September 1777
From: White, Anthony Walton
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philada 20. Septr 1777.

I beg Leave to inform you that my Wound is so much better that I am able to hop about again, and as I am not yet well enough to join my Regiment I should be happy to render any Service to my Country while I remain here.
Being the only Field Officer now in Town I have been frequently applied to by Captains Barre and Reid of the two Frigates and many of the Inhabitants to act as such, and order all the Ships, Shallops Boats &c. to Trenton as they conceive they will be of the greatest Service to the Enemy should they get Possession of the City.
The Removal also of the Horses now in this town and its Neighbourhood, which may be scouted by the Tories; I think an Object worth attending to.
With the Advice of many of the Inhabitants our Friends, I have ordered the Ships to be removed as far up the River as their Draught of Water will admit and I have informed the Owners of such Vessells as refuse to Comply with this Order that they will be burnt on the Approach of the Enemy.
I shall decline acting any further untill I have the Honor of your Excellency’s Instructions & Commands; Nothing cou’d have induced me to have acted this far without first acquainting your Excellency with it but the immediate Necessity of the Order and their being neither Congress, Board of War, Governor nor any Field Officer in town—but Your Excellencys most obedient humble servant

Anthy W: White

A few Light Dragoons ordered here will be of the greatest Service in Case of the Enemys Approach to this Town.


Title: General Orders, 21 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters  Septemr 21st 1777.
Georgia.Grafton. Goshen.

The Honorable Congress have been pleased to appoint The Count Pulaski, to chief command of the American light dragoons, with the rank of Brigadier General.
Some diligent officers of each brigade are to be sent immediately to all the houses within four or five miles of the camp, to find and bring all stragglers to their respective corps—the Brigadiers will see this done.
The Major Generals and Brigadiers will see that their commissaries make competent provision for supplying the troops—One person in the issuing Commissary General’s department is without fail to call daily at Head Quarters to report the state of provisions, and receive orders.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Philemon Dickinson, 21 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Dickinson, Philemon
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Philemon Dickinson, 21 Sept. 1777. GW wrote Dickinson on 22 Sept.: “I am favd with yours of the 21st.”


Title: To George Washington from Bryan Fairfax, 21 September 1777
From: Fairfax, Bryan
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
From Colo. Thompson’s at the Conestogo Waggon about 18 Milesbelow Lancaster [Pa., 21 September 1777]

I am very sorry to disturb Your Excellency at this time with a Letter upon private Business; but when I set out from Home I did not expect it would have been so difficult to get to Camp as I have found it, having rode round a great ways & being still at some distance from it.
Your Excellency knows that I have had the Misfortune to differ in Opinion from many of my Countrymen, and I am sure have more Generosity than to be displeased with any Man merely for his Sentiments, & therefore freely lay my Case before You still hoping for a Continuance of Your former Friendship. For two years past I have had a stronger Desire to enter into Holy Orders than ever I had before, tho’ frequently in my Life have had the same, yet generally suffered worldly considerations to interfere. This Desire and the not finding myself at Liberty to concur in the Public measures make me very anxious to get to England, and I have been in Hopes of obtaining a Pass from the Congress to go to N: York for that Purpose. There has appeared to me but one Objection, and that is, the giving Intelligence, but I would not only enter into Engagements in that respect if required but it may [be] considered that what I might say would be of little Consequence, but if

of any it would rather be in Favour of America because I really think that it would be the Interest of Great Britain to let her enjoy her Independence, for if successful in this Struggle which is very doubtful it might all be to do over again at another Time.
I intended to have seen Your Excellency before I left the warm Springs the last of August where were Colo. Lewis, Your Brother & Mr W. Washington and to have brought my Son Tommy with me. when I came home I found they had put him on the Militia Roll and draughted him tho’ under the Age required and therefore I had him excused. He is now with me, and I intended to have taken him with me, choosing to superintend his Education.
Now Having explained the Case I earnestly intreat Your Excellency’s Consideration with regard to those of Scrupulous Minds. By our own Consciences we must stand or fall and I wish & strive to die with a clear one. Not but what I believe & am persuaded that it is the same with Your Excellency & many others. I hope You will befriend me in this Matter. And if Your Excellency can give me a Pass that I might come & see You I shall be very glad to do it whether I succeed in the other matter or not for You are often in my Mind & I have often sympathised with Yr Ex. in regard to the great & labourious Undertaking You are engaged in.
Colo. Lewis bought two Lots for Yr Excellency at the Place you desired and as I was appointed to receive the Money by the Trustees, and as I expected to see Yr Excellency Colo. Lewis referred me to You. Thinking that I might find it difficult to pass to the Camp and being fatigued I have tryed to get a Messenger to carry this Letter, hoping he may [be] detained till a little Leisure may be obtained if possible that I might be favoured with a Line. I remain with great Respect & Regard Yr Excellency’s most obedt & obligd hl. St

Bryan Fairfax


Title: Instructions to Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 21 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander (Lieutenant Colonel)

Sir,
[c.21 September 1777]

The distressed situation of the army for want of blankets and many necessary articles of Cloathing, is truly deplorable; and must inevitably be destructive to it, unless a speedy remedy be applied. Without a better supply than they at present have, it will be impossible for the men to support the fatigues of the campaign in the further progress of the approaching inclement season. This you well know to be a melancholy truth. It is equally the dictate of common sense and the opinion of the Physicians of the army as well as, of every officer in it. No supply can be drawn from the public magazines—We have therefore no resource but from the private stock of individuals. I feel, and I lament, the absolute necessity of requiring the inhabitants to contribute to those wants which we have no other means of satisfying, and which if unremoved, would involve the ruin of the army, and perhaps the ruin of America. Painful as it is to me to order and as it will be to you to execute the measure, I am compelled to desire you immediately to proceed to Philadelphia, and there procure from the inhabitants, contributions of blankets and Cloathing and materials to answer the purposes of both; in proportion to the ability of each. This you will do with as much delicacy and discretion as the nature of the business demands; and I trust the necessity will justify the proceeding in the eyes of every person well affected to the American cause; and that all good citizens will chearfully afford their assistance to soldiers, whose sufferings they are bound to commisserate, and who are eminently exposed to danger and distress, in defense of every thing they ought to hold dear.
As there are also a number of horses in Philadelphia both of public and private property, which would be a valuable acquisition to the enemy, should the city by any accident fall into their hands, You are hereby authorised and commanded to remove them thence into the

Country to some place of greater security and more remote from the operations of the enemy.
You will stand in need of assistance from others, to execute this commission with dispatch and propriety; and you are therefore impowered to employ such persons as you shall think proper to aid you therein. Given.


Title: To George Washington from General William Howe, 21 September 1777
From: Howe, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Head Quarters [Charles Town, Pa.] 21st September 1777

There being some wounded Officers & Men of your Army at Howel’s Tavern & the neighbouring Houses, with whom a Surgeons Mate is left, having Orders to join me on the 23d if not sooner relieved by one of your Surgeons, I am to request you will lose no Time in sending whom you shall think proper for this Purpose with Directions to give Receipts for the wounded so delivered up as Prisoners of War to be hereafter exchanged. With due Respect I am Sir your most obedient humble Servant

W. Howe


Title: From George Washington to General William Howe, 21 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, William

Sir
Head Qrs Septr 21st 1777

Your Favor of this date was received this Evening & agreable to your request have sent Doctor Wilson to take charge of the Wounded Officers & Men of the Army under my command who have fallen into your hands at Howels Tavern & the neighbouring Houses. The Doctor has directions to give a receipt for All that are delivered him, and they will be considered as Your prisoners. I am Sir with due respect Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Caesar Rodney, 21 September 1777
From: Rodney, Caesar
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
September the 21st 1777

There has Just fell in to my hands, found in the Tract of [the] Enemy by Some of my people some Eight or ten days ago, One of the Enemy’s Orderly Books. It Commences in April last, and Ends Since they landed at Elk. I have perused it, and being of opinion that it might be Verry

Usefull, provided you are not previously informed as to the matters it Contains, have sent it [to] you by a private of my Light-Horse Who I believe to be Verry Trust worthy—Last fryday Week in the Afternoon I Arrived at Christina Bridge and That Evening Wrote you by one of my Horse Who in a Little time after Unfortunately fell in to the Enemy’s hands with the Letter, as they Were Comeing to take possession of Wilmington. He was a private but a well behaved Trusty Young fellow, possessed property which is in Trade and therefore Must Suffer Verry Much; If under these Circumstances an Exchange without Interuption to the Important business before [you] Could be soon Made for him, it Would give me great pleasure, his name is William Berry—The Next Morning after the Enemy had taken possession of Wilmington We got Inteligence of it, and by the Evening had no More of the Delaware Militia than Sufficient to Conduct their Baggage Home—and these, their Officers let me know, were determined to go that Night. Therefore thought it best to give them that Charge and let them go—The Next day I left Coll Gist with the Continental Troops, and the Militia from the Eastern Shore of Maryland at the Bridge—And have Ever since, but am sorry to Say, to no purpose, been Trying to rouse and Get them to the field again, Except a few small parties near Christina Creek Removing Stock &c. out of the Enemy’s way—the people Complain the Militia Law by the InSufficiency of the fines Compells none to turn out—That the people of property Who are disaffected Avail themselves of it And therefore the burthen too Great on them—In Short, it does not Seem Ever to have [been] intended by the Law they Should be brought forth—I am Much hurt by not having it in my power to go forward with Coll Gist to Join General Smallwood with propriety, Especially as the Cause, at this time, So Loudly Calls Assistance. If there are any Services I Can Render be pleased to Command; I am dear Sir with the Most sincere wishes for Your Success Your Most obedient Humble Servt

Cæsar Rodney

P.S. Should be Glad to hear from You.


Title: From George Washington to Brig. Gen. Anthony Wayne, 21 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

Letter not found: to Brig. Gen. Anthony Wayne, 21 Sept. 1777. GW wrote Wayne on 23 Sept.: “I received Your favor of Yesterday morning, and am apprehensive, as you have not acknowledged the receipt of a Letter, I wrote you the Night before, that It has fallen into the Enemy’s hands.”


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 21 September 1777
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Red Lion [Pa.] 21 Septr 1777: 12 oClock

About 11 OClock last Evening we were alarmed by a firing from One of our Out guards—The Division was immediately formed, which was no sooner done than a firing began on our Right flank—I thought proper to order the Division to file off by the left, except the Infantry and two or three Regiments nearest to where the Attack began in order to favour our Retreat—by this time the Enemy and we were not more than Ten Yards distant—a well directed fire mutually took place, followed by charge of Bayonet—Numbers fell on each side—we then drew off a little distance and formed a Front to oppose to theirs—they did not think prudent to push matters further.
Part of the Division were a little scattered but are collecting fast—We have saved all our Artillery, Ammunition & Stores—except one or two Waggons belonging to the Commissaries Department.
Genl Smallwood was on his march, but not within supporting distance—he ordered his people to file off towards this place where his Division and my own now lay.
As soon as we have refreshed our Troops for an Hour or Two, we shall follow the Enemy, who I this moment learn from Major North are marching for Schuylkill—I can’t as yet ascertain our Loss—but will make out a Return as soon as possible, our Dead will be collected & buried this Afternoon.
I must in justice to Cols. Hartley, Humpton, Broadhead, Grier, Butler, Hubley & indeed every Feild & Other Officer, inform your Excellency, that I derived every assistance possible from those Gentn on this Occasion.
Whilst I am writing I received yours of the 20th ⅌ Messrs Dunlap & Leamings, with the intelligence you wished to communicate—It will not be in our power to render you such service, as I could wish, but

all that can you may depend on being done by Your Excellencys Most Obedt Hble servt

Anty Wayne

N.B. The Two Letters you mention I never received—I have reason to think they fell into the Enemy’s hands, last Nights Affair fully evinces it.


Title: General Orders, 22 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters  September 22nd 1777.
Watchfulness.Caution. Security.

The Clothier General is immediately to distribute all the cloaths and shoes in his possession.
The army is to march by the right in small divisions or platoons, in this order—first Genl Sullivan’s division—then Lord Stirling’s—then the park of artillery—then Genl Nash’s brigade—then Genl Stephen’s division—then Genl Greene’s—the officers of all ranks are to march in their proper places, and keep their divisions, brigades, regiments and platoons in the most exact order & especially not to suffer a man to quit his place without leave, and that to be granted only, in case of absolute necessity, and then a serjeant is to be left with him to bring him on—There are to be proper guards advanced in front and on the left flank of the army.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Carroll of Carrollton, 22 September 1777
From: Carroll, Charles (of Carrollton)
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Pott’s Groves [Pa.] 22d Septr 1777.

I would just suggest the propriety of Sending Some active persons to Bristol & Trenton to impress Wagons to remove what continental Stores are at those places & may be carried thither from Pha in consequence of your orders to Colo. Hamilton—This measure is the more necessary as the order of Congress for removing these Stores is suspended till their meeting at Lancaster wh. may not be Some days. Mr Smith one of our Delegates being returned home I must proceed to Congress to keep up a representation from our State—I desire my compliments to the gentlemen in your family and wish Your Excellency health & Success against our common enemy. I am with great esteem Yr most obdt hum. Servt

Ch. Carroll of Carrollton


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Chase, 22 September 1777
From: Chase, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Sir
Potts Grove [Pa.] Septr 22nd 1777.

In this Place the Inhabitants are almost all Tories. I have endeavoured to obtain Information whether any Goods are stored here. Capt. Caldwell, who now lives here, beleives that some Goods and Spirits, above 100 Hogsheads, are lodged in the Hands of one John Phillips. it is probable some Goods may be stored with the Potts’s of this place. an immediate Search & Waggons ready to remove what may be found, will probably procure a considerable Supply. I have Reason to beleive a Quantity of Woollens are lodged near this place. I am, with Respect Your Excellencys Most obedt Servant

Saml Chase


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock or Any Member of the Continental Congress, 22 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Letter not found: to John Hancock or Any Member of the Continental Congress, 22 Sept. 1777. Elbridge Gerry in his letter to GW of 24 Sept. referred to “your Letter of the 22d directed to the President or any Member of Congress.”


Title: From George Washington to Colonel George Gibson, 22 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Gibson, George

Camp on the Reading Road 28 Miles from Philada—22d Sepr 1777
Sir

I wrote to you about ten days ago, directing you to join this Army with the utmost expedition. But our Situation has been so much changed by a variety of circumstances since that time that I think it proper to inform you that we are at present here and are moving up the Country towards Reading as the Enemy are moving that way upon the West Side of Schuylkill. I would recommend it to you to march across the Country from Lancaster to Reading, and if you find the way

clear cross Schuylkill at that place and form a junction with me as speedily as possible. Lest you should be deceived by Reports of the Situation of the Enemy I would advise you always to keep an intelligent officer a head not only to find out where they are, but also where our Army is. You may by these means save much needless marching. Let me know as soon as possible where you are. I have only to press you to delay no time in coming on, and to assure you I am Yr most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton, 22 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander (Lieutenant Colonel)

Camp on Reading Road 28th Miles from Philadelphia,Sept. 22d 1777:
Dr sir

I have order’d eight or Ten light Horse more to your assistance, and if you should find a further force necessary to facilitate the business you are upon, there are fifty or sixty dismounted No. Carolinians attach’d at present to Colo. Nichaolas Corps. These must be subject to your order. I have been just now inform’d, that there are not less than three thousand pair of Shoes in the hands of three or four Persons in Philadelphia—a Peter January himself is said to have 140⟨0⟩ Pair. you will make the most diligent inquiry upon this Head—you know our distresses and will collect ev’ry pair you possibly can—I refer you to Mr J. Mease for proper information, being told that he knows where they are. I do not wish your exertions to be solely directed to obtaining Shoes & Blankets—extend them to evry other article, you know to be material for the Army; your own prudence will point out the least ⟨e⟩xceptionable means to be pursued in these instances—but remember, that delicacy and a strict adherance to the ordinary modes of application must give place to our necessity’s. We must if possible, accommodate the Soldiery with such articles as they stand in need of or we shall have just reasons to apprehend the most injurious & alarming consequences from the approaching season. As fast as you collect Shoes & Blankets you will send them off by some interior—middle road, that they may be secure, with peremptory orders to those who shall have em in charge, not to delay a moment in getting them to the Army. the business you are upon I know is disagreable, & perhaps in the execution, you may meet with more Obstacles than were at first apprehended & also with opposition to the parties I have mention’d;

call in such a number of Militia as you may think necessary, observing however over the conduct of the whole, a strict discipline, to prevent evry species of rapine & disorder. If Mr Mease has any under Jackets & stockings, he should order a supply to be forwarded to the Army as soon as possible. This you will tell him. I am Dr Sr Yr &c.

G.W——

P.S. I doubt not but Mr Mease has remov’d all the clothing ’ere this but you’ll mention the propriety of doing it immediately, in case of accidents.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 22 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

D. Sir
[22 September 1777]

I wrote you on Friday last requesting your earliest arrival with the Troops under your command to join me. This I must repeat, and have sent an Officer on purpose to deliver my Letter, to whom I refer you for the particulars of our Situation & that of the Enemy at this Time. I shall only observe respecting them, that the main body of their Army lay last night, near French Creek Bridge about Four Miles from Schuylkill on the West side. Their unvaried Object has been & it seems still to be pursued, to get above us & to turn on our right Flank. We are on the East side the River and advance as they do, on the Common Road from Philadelphia to Reading, Twenty Eight miles from the Former. From the present complexion of Affairs, you should proceed on the most direct Rout leading to Pot’s Grove, Nine miles above this place; but I wish you, as soon as you approach the Delaware to advise me by Express, still continuing the Rout I have mentioned, till you hear from me in Answer to your Letter, when you will be directed to proceed as circumstances require. I shall not add more, than to urge your unremitted

diligence to join me, as early as possible, assuring you, that your aid is extremely wanted and cannot arrive too soon. You will write me a Line by the return of the Officer. I am Dr Sir with great esteem & regard Yr Most Obedt servant

Go: Washington

P.S. Your Letter of the 17th just now came to Hand.
Ensign McDonald is the Officer.


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. Anthony Wayne, 22 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. Anthony Wayne, 22 Sept. 1777. GW wrote Wayne on 23 Sept.: “I received Your favor of Yesterday morning.”


Title: General Orders, 23 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Camp, near Potsgrove [Pa.] Septr 23rd 1777.
Bethlehem.Chatham. Dedham.

The General expects the returns of the army to morrow morning without fail, and enjoins it upon the commanding officers of corps to see that they are exactly made.
Each regiment is to proceed in making cartridges for its own use, that they may be held in store—Genl Knox will furnish them with materials.
It is expected, as the weather is now growing cool, that the troops will never have less, than two day’s provision by them[.] The necessity of this, the General does, in the strongest manner impress, upon the officers, in hopes they will exert themselves in seeing it executed, as the soldiers, or the service must greatly suffer, unless this is well attended to.

The General is informed that the Tin-Cannisters which were served out for the purpose of carrying ammunition, are in some instances applied to other uses; He therefore positively forbids such practices.
James Lloyd Esqr. is appointed a Volunteer Aid-de-Camp to Major Genl Greene—and to be respected accordingly.
The sick in Camp, are to be sent immediately, to the artillery park, or house or barn nearest thereto, that the Surgeons may send them in waggons to Reading—A careful subaltern Officer from each division is to go with them—If so many officers are not necessary, the Surgeon General will dismiss a part of them—Each man is to take one day’s provision with him.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Arendt, 23 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Arendt, Henry Leonard Philip

Sir
Camp [near Pottsgrove, Pa.] Septr 23d 1777

It is of the utmost importance to prevent the Enemy’s Land Forces and Fleet from forming a junction, which it is almost morally certain they will attempt by seizing on Fort Island below Philadelphia, if it is possible, and thereby gain the Navigation of the Delaware by weighing and removing the Chivaux Defrize, which have been sunk for that purpose. This Post—(Fort Island) if maintained will be of the last consequence, and will effectually hinder them from Union. I therefore appoint you to the command of It, and desire that you will repair thither immediately. The defence is extremely interesting to the United States, and I am hopefull will be attended with much honor to yourself and advantages to them. There are Troops there now, and a Detachment to reinforce them will imediately march from this Army. I have nothing further to add than my wishes for your success and to assure you, that I am with esteem Sir Yr Most Obedt Servant

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 23 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Camp near Potts Grove [Pa.] 23d Sept. 1777

I have not had the honor of addressing you since your adjournment to Lancaster, and I sincerely wish that my first letter was upon a more agreeable subject. The Enemy, by a variety of perplexing Maneuvres thro’ a Country from which I could not derive the least intelligence being to a man disaffected, contrived to pass the Schuylkill last Night at the Flat land and other Fords in the Neighbourhood of it. They marched immediately towards Philada and I imagine their advanced parties will be near that City to Night. They had so far got the Start before I recd certain intelligence that any considerable Number had crossed, that I found it in vain to think of overtaking their Rear with Troops harrassed as ours had been with constant marching since the Battle of Brandywine and therefore concluded by the advice of all the General Officers to march from this place tomorrow Morning towards Philadelphia, and on the way endeavour to form a junction with the Continental Troops under Genl Mcdougal from Peekskill and the Jersey Militia under General Dickenson, both of whom are I hope on this Side the Delaware. I am also obliged to wait for Genl Wayne and Genl Smallwood who were left upon the other Side of Schuylkill in hopes of falling upon the Enemy’s Rear, but they have eluded them as well as us.
When I last recrossed the Schuylkill it was with a firm intent of giving the Enemy Battle wherever I should meet them, and accordingly advanced as far as the Warren Tavern upon the Lancaster Road near which place the two Armies were upon the point of coming to a general Engagement but were prevented by a most violent Flood of Rain which continued all the day and following Night. When it held up, we had the mortification to find that our Ammunition which had been compleated to Forty Rounds a Man was intirely ruined, and in that Situation we had nothing left for it but to find out a strong piece of Ground which we could easily maintain till we could get the Arms put into order and a Recruit of Ammunition. Before this could be fully effected, the Enemy marched from their position near the White Horse Tavern down the Road leading to the Swedes Ford, I immediately crossed the Schuylkill above them and threw myself full in their front hoping to

meet them in their passage or soon after they had passed the River. The day before yesterday they were again in motion and marched rapidly up the Road leading towards Reading. This induced me to beleive that they had two objects in view, one to get round the right of the Army, the other perhaps to detatch parties to Reading where we had considerable quantities of military Stores. To frustrate those intentions I moved the Army up on this side the River to this place, determined to keep pace with them, but early this morning I recd intelligence that they had crossed at the Fords below. Why I did not follow immediately, I have mentioned in the former part of my letter. But the strongest Reason against being able to make a forced march is the want of Shoes; Mess[r]s Carroll, Chase and Penn who were some days with the Army can inform Congress in how deplorable a Situation the Troops are for want of that necessary Article, at least one thousand Men are bare footed and have performed the marches in that condition. I was told of a great number of Shoes in the hands of private people in Philadelphia and sent down to secure them, but I doubt the approach of the Enemy will prevent it. I have planned a method of throwing a Garrison into Fort Mifflin, if it succeeds and they with the Assistance of the Ships and Gallies should keep the obstructions in the River, General Howe’s Situation in Philada will not be the most agreeable, for if his supplies can be stopped by Water it may be easily done by land. To do both shall be my utmost endeavour, and I am not yet without hope that the acquisition of Philada may, instead of his good fortune, prove his Ruin.
Genl St Clair who has been constantly with the Army for some time past can give you many pieces of information which may have escaped me and therefore I refer you to him for many particulars.
If there are any Shoes & Blankets to be had in Lancaster or that part of the Country I earnestly entreat you to have them taken up for the use of the Army. I have been informed that there are large parcels of Shoes in particular there. Finding that the inclosed came from Colo. Gibson, I took the liberty of opening it, as I wanted much to know what Rout he was taking.
I have ordered all the Virginia Militia who are tolerably armed to come forward and join the Army; those who have no Arms are to wait at Frederick Town in Maryland till they hear whether any can be provided for them at Lancaster. You will therefore be pleased to make enquiry what Number can be procured there, and send an Express to Frederick with orders for as many men to come forward as there are Arms. I have the honor to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: Instructions to Commodore John Hazelwood, 23 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hazelwood, John

Sir
Camp at Potts Grove [Pa.] Septr 23d 1777

The Enemy have cross’d the Schuylkill below the Army & are now on their March for the City of Philadelphia—I think it of the greatest Importance that the Fort upon the Island should be Garrison’d, If we can stop the Enemy’s fleet from coming up & prevent them from getting Possession of the Mud fort, & they take Possession of the City & our Army moves down upon the back of it, it will be the most effectual method of ruining General Howe’s Army that ever Fortune Favor’d us with—I could wish you to take out of the Ships & the Row Gallies two or three Hundred Men & Garrison the Fort with them untill I can relieve them with some Continental Troops which I design as soon as possible—You will lay the Gallies round the Fort in such a manner as will prevent the Enemy from landing Men upon the Island. If you think it necessary for the Security of the Fort to lay the Island under water, let it be done immediately—I hope you’ll exert yourself & all the Officers under your command as far as possible to secure the Fort, & prevent the Enemy’s fleet from coming up—Let us Join our Force & Operations both by land & Water in such a manner as will most effectually work the Ruin of the common Enemy, without confining ourselves to any particular Department. There is one thing further I would recommend

which is that you should have all the Boats immediately collect’d from the City, & above & below it on both sides the River & taken under the care of your Fleet—This will prevent the Enemy from the Means of making an attempt on the Fort & allso all Intercourse with Jersey for obtaining Supplies of Provision. I am Sir your most Obedt servt.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Thomas Polk, 23 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Polk, Thomas

Sir
Camp near pottsgrove [Pa.] 23d Sepr 1777

You are hereby directed to proceed immediately to Bethlehem with the heavy Baggage of the Army, upon your arrival there you are to take a convenient Building and unload and store the Baggage in order that the Waggons may return under the conduct of the Waggon Masr General or one of his deputies. You are to remain yourself with a Guard of 200 Men consisting of such as may be at the time most fatigued and unfit for duty. The remainder to be sent to Camp under charge of their Officers with positive directions not to suffer them to straggle upon the march. Make me a return of the Number that you send back that I may make the Officer accountable for them.
In storing the Baggage let care be taken not to mix that of the different Brigades together. I am &ca.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 23 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dear Sir
Camp on Schuylkill 34 Miles from Philadelphia Sept. 23d 1777

The situation of our affairs in this Quarter calls for every aid, and for every effort. Genl Howe by various Manuvres & marching high up the Schuylkill, as if he meant to turn our right Flank found means by countermarching to pass the river last Night several miles below us, which is fordable almost in every part, and is now fast advancing towards Philadelphia. I therefore desire, that without a Moments loss of time you will detach as many effective rank and file, under proper Genl and other Officers, as will make the whole number including those with General Mcdougal, amount to Twenty five hundred privates and non commissiond fit for Duty. The Corps under Genl Mcdougal, to my great surprize, by a letter from him some days ago, consisted only of nine hundred & eleven. You will direct the Officers commanding the detachment now ordered to proceed as expeditiously as possible to reinforce me. The rout thro’ Morris Town & over Coriels Ferry will be the best for them to pursue—Before they arrive at the Ferry, they will hear where I am, but that they may know their destination, when they are in Two days march of it, they are to advise ⟨me⟩ by Express, and I will write on the subject. I must urge you by every motive to send on this Detachment without the least possible delay. No considerations are to prevent it. It is our first object to defeat, if possible, the Army now opposed to us here. That the passes in the Highlands may be perfectly secure, you will immediately call in your forces now on Command at out Posts. you must not think of covering a whole Country by dividing ’em, and when they are ordered in and drawn together, they will be fully competent to repel any attempt that can be made by the Enemy from below in their present situation; Besides, if you are threatned with an attack, you must get what aid you can from the Militia. The detachment

will bring their Baggage, but I wish em to come with no more than will be absolutely necessary. That you may not hesitate about complying with this order, you are to consider it as peremptory and not to be dispensed with. Colo. Malcom’s Regiment will form a part of the Detachment. I am Dr Sir with great regard your most Obet Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. The Troops now order’d need not bring any Artillery.
The Inclosed, you will send Genl Gates by Express immediately.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 23 September 1777
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Norrington Meeting House [Pa.] Tuesday [23 September 1777]—4 oClock P.M.

I stayed at my House as long or perhaps rather longer than was prudent—the Enemy came there in about 15 Minutes after—I have collected a small Party here at the Meeting House about 1 Mile above my own House—& soon after we took two Prisoners whose Information is on the other Leaf—Your Excelly will judge of its Value—They are so ignorant of the Transactions of their Army that I could get nothing else from them tho’ I ask’d every Question I could think of. I shall remain here at present & watch their Motions tho’ I am puzzled to get Persons to carry the Intelligence I collect. I am obliged to write in a Hurry & on

such Paper as I can get—but am with the greatest Respect & Affection D. Sir Your most Obed. & very faithful

J. Reed

I have a Colonel Crawford with me a very good Officer but we cannot muster more than 50 or 60 Men.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Smith, 23 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, Samuel

Sir
Head Quarters, Camp near Potsgrove [Pa.] Septr 23d 1777.

You will proceed with the detachment under your command to Dunks’s ferry on Delaware, if you find in your progress the way clear & safe. When arrived there, you will take the safest & most expeditious method of conducting the detachment to fort Mifflin; by water would be easiest & least fatiguing to your men; and if practicable & safe, will certainly be most eligible: otherwise you will cross the Delaware, & march down on the Jersey side to fort Mifflin. In the whole march you will make all possible dispatch—keep your men in the most exact order—suffer no one to straggle—make each officer take a list of his platoon or division, and at the beginning of every march see that every man be present; you will also take every necessary precaution to prevent the enemy’s surprizing you on your march, by keeping out small van—flank & rear guards, & sentries when you halt.
The keeping of the fort is of very great importance, and I rely strongly on your prudence, spirit and bravery for a vigorous & persevering defence. The Baron Arundt will be appointed to the chief command; and when he arrives, you will give him every aid in your power.
A Commissary must be appointed (if there be not one already) to supply the garrison with provisions. And it may be highly expedient to lay in a stock of salted meat, if to be had, & a quantity of bread, flour & wood, for at least one month.
Immediately on your arrival make enquiry of the stock of amunition for musquetry as well as artillery, & if either be wanting, lose not a minute’s time in getting a supply. Wishing you all desirable success, I remain your friend and servant,

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General John Sullivan, 23 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dear sir
Head qrs [near Pottsgrove, Pa.] Tuesday Eveng 23d Septr 1777

I have just receiv’d your Letter requesting a Court of Enquiry to morrow or next day which I most readily agree to provided the Situation of the Army renders it practicable, but this I much doubt as I think it

highly probable we shall March some distance to morrow. I am Dr sir your mo. Obed. servt

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 24 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Potsgrove [Pa.], Septr 24th 1777.
Potsgrove.Reading. Lancaster.


Title: From George Washington to Bryan Fairfax, 24 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Fairfax, Bryan

Dear Sir
Camp near Pottsgrove [Pa.] Septr 24th 1777.

Your favour from the Connistoga Waggon without date was put into my hands on the Evening of the 21st Instt by a stranger who said he was going to Phila. and would call upon me as he returnd but have seen nothing of him since.
The difference in our political Sentiments never made any change in my friendship for you, and the favorable Sentiments I ever entertain’d of your Honr, leaves me without a doubt that you would say any thing, or do any thing injurious to the cause we are ingaged in, after having pledg’d your word to the contrary—I therefore give my consent, readily, to the prosecution of your Inclination of going to England, and for this purpose Inclose a certificate—or pass-port to come forward to this army whenever you please.
My extreme hurry will not allow me time to add more than that I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affec.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Elbridge Gerry, 24 September 1777
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Washington, George

sir
Lancaster [Pa.] Sepr 24th 1777

In Consequence of your Letter of the 22d directed to the President or any Member of Congress, I have conferred with William Henry Esqr. of this Place upon the most expeditious Method of collecting the Arms & Accoutrements in the Hands of the Inhabitants here, & he is of opinion that it may be accomplished by your Warrant to him grounded on the late Resolution of Congress for that & other Purposes. As there is not a prospect of having a Congress or Board of War for several Days to give him Authority, & the Articles are immediately wanted, he has consented to proceed in the Business without Delay, in Expectation that on the Receipt of this You will give him full Powers to justify his Conduct & date them the 22d, that the Time of his Transaction may comport with his Commission. With Wishes of Success to your Excellency & the Cause in which You are engaged I remain sir very respectfully your most humble Sert

E. Gerry


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 24 September 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Head Quarters Boston Sept. 24th 1777

The last Evening I received the Honor of yours of the 14th Instant and this day that of the 6th—shall forward the Troops with all Possible dispatch, as the Regiments had no apprehensions of being Called Upon to march on so Short notice, They are not prepared for takeing the Field but the Utmost Vigilance shall be Exerted to prepare them,

Their Strength is but Inconsiderable, Jacksons about 200 Including officers, Lees about 140 & Henlys, not more than 30 Privates—These Regiments have Laboured Under many Discouragements and have recruited but very Slowly Untill within a week or two Past in which Time they have been more Successfull than in months before, and I am fully of Opinion that if the Service would have admitted of their remaining Here a few months longer they would have been as Strong, and as well Disciplined as any Regiments in the army, & I should have been Happy in having been ordered with them by your Excellency to any Post that you might have thought Proper, and the Heigth of my ambition to have Presented them to your Excellency and to have acted under your Immediate Direction.
I shall order the Troops on fully Officered in proportion to their numbers, and Direct the other officers to attend the recruiting Service, and Send on the Recruits in Detachments to Joyn the Rgts[.] Colo. Jackson Sends his Lieut. Colo. and Major, & Colo. Lee his Lieut. Colo.
Inclosed are Lists of the Officers of Colo. Lees and Jacksons Regts. I would request that Commissions may be filled, as Soon as may be agreable to your Excellency for those officers who march with the first Division of the respective Regiments and that they may be Sent to Peeks Kill to General Putnam where the Officers will Call and take them as they appear Extremely reluctant to be Called into the Field without them which I think your Excellency will not be Surprised at, The other Commissions I would beg may be Sent Here as proposed by your Excellency in your Letter of the 6th Instant.
Having wrote to the Board of Treasury at Philadelphia at the Same Time that I wrote to your Excellency on the Subject of the Expedition to St Johns They (the Board) have wrote me to make the officers and Soldiers Engaged in that Service Payment.
We are Impatiently waiting to hear Somthing very Interesting from your Quarter, we have frequently agreable accounts from the northward and from Present accounts I think Genl Burgoyne will meet a Total Defeat.
Two Vallueable Prises are Just Sent to an Eastern Port Deeply Laden with English Goods—The Sterling Cost of One of the Cargoes amounts to £30,000. I have the Honor to be with great respect your Excellencys most Obt Humble Servt

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 24 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Sir
Camp near Potts Grove [Pa.] 24th Septem. 1777

Since writing to you this morning, it has been determined in consequence of farther intelligence that it will be more adviseable to remain on the ground which we occupy at present, than to march to the Trap as was at first intended—you will therefore regulate your movements accordingly. I am Sir Your most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 24 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

My Lord,
[Near Pottsgrove, Pa., 24 September 1777]

The principal reason for halting the Army here to Night, is, that the Enemy from every Information I have receivd this day, have not advancd towards Phila. it follows I think, evidently (especially if it be true that part of them are at Bonners House where we dind) that this Army, and not the City, is their object; & of course that we should not be too far advanced towds them till our strength is collected. I have only to add therefore, that my wish is, that your Lordship would, if possible, have their Present position watched, to see if any movement this way, or towards Phila. take⟨s⟩ place, that I may be early advised there⟨of⟩—and that you will take every necessary precaution for security of the whole Troops in that Quarter Includg Maxwells & Potters—Should I advance with this Army, & the Enemy turn upon us, & oblige us to retire, the consequences would be bad, to avoid which It is, that I halt here this Night.
Count Pulaski goes to you with the Horse & is instructed to send out Parties for observation. I am Yr Lordships Most Obedt Sert

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 24 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

Near Pottsgrove [Pa.] 24th Sept. 1777 ½ after 5 oclock P.M.
My Lord

Since I have seen Captn Faulkner, and by him learnt the situation of Genl McDougal, I am really uneasy to find how low he is down & near to the Enemy (if they continue in the same position they were this morning).
Captn Faulkner says your Lordship proposed to send an officer to

conduct him by some upper Road, but lest any other business should have withdrawn your attention from this matter, I send to inquire, & if it is not done, to beg that not a moments time may be lost in doing of it.—To do this expeditiously is, in my judgment a matter of great Importance, as I conceive they will if they can get any Intelligence of his situation and numbers (this night) aim a stroke at him.—Besides the officer that may have gone, I also beg that a few light horse with a good guide or two, may be sent to Patrole between him and the Enemy with orders to give him notice of any movement which may appear towards him this night.
After expressing my uneasiness on this head I shall rely upon yr. Lordships care &c. to guard against the stroke which I think (if the Enemy have knowledge of McDougals Situation) may be aimed—Your Lordship will please to forward any accts which may come to your hands of the Enemy’s Situation or movements. I am my Lord Yr Lordships Most Ob

GO. WASHINGTON


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, 24 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 24 Sept. 1777. GW wrote Trumbull on 1 Oct.: “I was yesterday honored with yours of the 24th ulto with its enclosures.”


Title: To George Washington from Nathaniel Whitaker, 24 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Whitaker, Nathaniel
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Nathaniel Whitaker, 24 Sept. 1777. GW wrote Whitaker on 20 Dec. 1777: “Your favour of the 24th of September . . . came safe to my hands.”


Title: General Orders, 25 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Potsgrove [Pa.] Septr 25th 1777.
Bunkerhill.Bennington. Brandywine.

A General Court Martial is to sit immediately at the house where Genl Conway quarters, for the trial of all prisoners which shall be brought before them—Col. James Wood is appointed president of this court.
One careful Subaltern from each regt is to be sent off immediately to Bethlaem with Col. Biddle, to inspe[c]t the baggage of the army, to see if it suffers by dampness, and if it does, to have it properly dried

and put up again, and then to see that it be well secured, and guarded against plunderers—These officers are to assemble at 3 O’clock in the afternoon this day, at the Q. M. Genl’s quarters, the next house beyond Head Quarters.
Henceforward, all Brigade returns are to be made directly, to the Adjt Genl—Ordinary weekly returns of each brigade are to be made every monday at orderly time.


Title: From George Washington to Bryan Fairfax, 25 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Fairfax, Bryan

Dear Sir,
Camp, near Pottsgrove [Pa.] Septr 25th 1777.

Despairing of seeing the bearer again, I wrote an answer to your favour from the Conestoga Waggon (without date) yesterday; and put it into the hands of a Man who faithfully promised to deliver it—since wch your own Messenger has called upon me, & that you may have two chances of getting my passport to the Camp, you will receive one under this cover.
In my Letter of yesterday I assurd you, and assurd you with truth, that the difference in our political Sentiments had made no change in my friendship for you—I esteem, and revere, every Man who acts from principle as I am perswaded you do; and shall ever contribute my aid to facilitate any Inclination you may wish to endulge, as I am satisfied that that honr which I have ever found you scrupulously observant of, will never be departed from. I shall add no more, because in the first place, I have very little leizure, & in the next, because I conceive it unnecessary to multiply words to proove that with sincere regard I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affe

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Bryan Fairfax, 25 September 1777
From: Fairfax, Bryan
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Lancaster [Pa.] Septr the 25th 1777

Your Excellency’s Kindness hath increased my Gratitude for your many Favours and I hope it will last always, & that no Distance of Time or Place will efface the Remembrance thereof from my Mind.
The Letter, which I gave to an Officer of Militia who was going down & who said he would try to get a Man to wait for Yr Excellency’s Answer, was written & sent off the 21st: But my staying two or three Days in the Neighbourhood, notwithstanding Colo. Thompson’s knowing of my sending down, gave a Suspicion to some of the People thereabouts, & has been the Cause of my being sent up here to Goal, which tho’ it gave me a little Uneasiness at first I thank God I have been able to bear with good Spirits, having been civilly treated by all thro’ whom I passed except one: but I think I had more Charity & Love to him than Ill will; so that God can make any State agreeable to us when he pleases. I had the Pleasure this Afternoon of seeing Colo. Richard Henry Lee & his Brother and thro’ their good Offices by what I hear to Night I expect to be released to Morrow and shall do myself the Pleasure of waiting on Your Excellency if my Return to Virginia be not required by those who may release me. Before I left Home I made Provision that the Rents of the Springfield Tract should be paid to Mr Custis—I sent him £30 in July in a Letter to be forwarded by Mr Muir, but I afterwards heard that he was in the lower Parts.
I had some Money with me for my Brother and intended to have consulted with Your Excellency what to do with it. I did not think proper to bring it into such a Place as this.
I forgot to mention that Mrs Lewis was also at Bath and tht Colo. Lewis was mending fast as usual after his Arrival. I remain with great Respect & Regard Yr Excellency’s most obliged he St

Bryan Fairfax


Title: To George Washington from Elbridge Gerry, 25 September 1777
From: Gerry, Elbridge
To: Washington, George

sir
Lancaster [Pa.] Sepr 25th 1777 3 oClock P.M.

I wrote You a Line Yesterday desiring You to impower Mr Henry of this Place to collect the Fire Arms wanted for the Virginia Troops on their March to the Camp, since wch your Letter of the 23d is received, desiring that a Number of Blankets & Shoes may be also collected. I have seen Mr Henry within this half Hour, & he informs me that he has collected already about 250 Arms, & shall be able to obtain about as many more. he also says that 300 p[air] Shoes went off this Morning to General Wayne, & that he will proceed in collecting as many p[air] of Shoes, & Blankets, as can be procured or with propriety be taken from the Inhabitants of the Town, & Farmers in the Neighbourhood thereof. You will therefore be pleased to enlarge the Powers proposed to be given by your Excellency to Mr Henry, And authorize him to collect the Articles last mentioned.
Colo. R. H. Lee is present, & has just directed a Letter to the Commandg Officer of the Militia at Frederick Town in Maryland ordering on all the Militia that are armed & 500 of those that are unarmed to be supplyed in this Place. I have the Honor to be With much Esteem your Excellency’s very hum. sert

E. Gerry


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 25 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dr Sir
Camp 4 Miles from Pots Grove [Pa.] Septr the 25: 1777

I was favoured with Yours by the Bearer of this. I wish you to proceed with your Detachment to the best Grounds near Markleys, about Two Miles below Pennibeckers Mill on the Skippack Road & there remain for further Orders. From the present view of things, I think, I shall join you there or somewhere near It, with this Army. Mr Thomas, who has this in charge, says he is well acquainted with the Rout from your present post to Pennibeckers Mill, though he does not know Markley. You

will, I am certain, make every necessary inquiry & disposition & keep the most vigilant look out. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt servt

Go: Washington

P.S. I have sent you a Map by Mr Thomas.


Title: To George Washington from Col. Lewis Nicola, 25 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Nicola, Lewis
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Col. Lewis Nicola, 25 Sept. 1777. GW wrote Nicola on 29 Sept.: “I am favd with yours of the 25th instant from Fort Mifflin.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 25 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Major General Stirling, 25 Sept. 1777. GW wrote Stirling later on this date: “I have your favor of 8 Oclock now before me.”


Title: From George Washington to Major General Stirling, 25 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)

My Lord,
Head Quarters [near Pottsgrove, Pa.]Sep: 25th 1777. 11 Oclock A.M.

I have your favor of 8 Oclock now before me, & am surprized to find the Enemy in the same situation after the movement which they appear’d to be making, according to the Information given by Genl Reed.
I am sorry the Piquets March’d from hence yesterday, & I am still more concern’d that Genl Armstrong with the Militia moved to the Trap as it was owing to a mistake they were not halted along with the other Troops at this place; the countermand of the March being intended for the whole, tho^I presume it never reached Genl Armstrong.
Under these circumstances, and the present appearance of the Weather (which has induced me to pitch our Tents, and see what the Clouds have in charge) I mean to Halt here, at least to day especially as I find Genl Wayne will not be up till night (if then) and Smallwood not till to morrow, I should be glad therefore if your Lordship would consult Genl Armstrong & the other Genl Officers with you, and determine whether it will be best for you to March back the Picquets, & for Maxwells Corps to join their respective Brigades immediately, or wait till to morrow.

That you may be the better enabled to determine this point I am to inform you, that I have directed Genl McDougall to Halt at a place Mark’d in the Map Markeys, on the Skippack Road, between Welgers and Pennebakers Mill (at a Star in the Fork of Perkiomy) and Officers are gone out to view the ground thereabouts, to see if it wd be a convenient Situation to Assemble our Troops at, & form a Camp; at the same time I must add that the Currt Sentiment of the Genl Officers here, is, that it is too near the Enemy till we are in a better condition to meet them on any Ground than we seem to be at present. I shall only add that the reason for halting McDougal there, is, to save him the fatiegue of a Countermarch if we should move that way, as his Troops must be greatly fatiegued by the length, & (of late) the rapidity of his March to form a junction with us. How far his Situation there may be eligable, a few hours, with the Intelligence they may bring, will probably determine—Your Lordship will as before desired take the Sentiments of the Officers with you on these matters & let me know the result. I am Yr Lordships Most Obedt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. William Woodford, 25 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Woodford, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. William Woodford, 25 Sept. 1777. GW wrote Woodford on 26 Sept.: “I have the pleasure of yours of the 25th.”


Title: General Orders, 26 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Potsgrove [Pa.] Septr 26th 1777.
Princeton.Trenton. Bristol.

The troops are to be ready to march at nine O’clock this morning, with all baggage packed and men paraded—To march off by the left, in the order given the day before yesterday—All the tent waggons to go next in the rear of the troops, in the order in which the troops march, and then the rest of the waggons. The leading division (Greene’s) to beat a march and march, to be followed by the other troops in their order.
The Commander in Chief approves of the following sentences of a General Court Martial held the 25th instant, whereof Col. James Wood was president.
John Farndon of Col. Hartley’s regt charged with “Desertion to the enemy, and inlisting with them”—The Court are of opinion the prisoner is not guilty of inlisting with the enemy. The Court (upwards of two thirds agreeing) do sentence the prisoner, for the charge of desertion, to suffer death.
James Dilworth, of Col. Moylan’s light dragoons, charged with “Desertion, and attempting to go to the enemy”—Acquitted; and he is to be sent forthwith to join his regiment.
Daniel Applegate of the 1st New-Jersey regt charged with “Desertion and attempting to go to the enemy”—Acquitted—and he is forthwith to join his regiment.
The base and wicked practice of plundering the inhabitants, being still continued, (notwithstanding all former orders) & in some cases, in the most atrocious manner—The Commander in Chief requires, that the General Orders of the 4th instant, relative thereto, be solemnly read without delay, by the commanding officer of each regiment to his men—The punishment denounced in those orders, will certainly be inflicted on the offenders.
The General being informed, that many regiments have but one orderly book—he in some measure ceases to wonder, that orders are so little known, and so frequently disobeyed. Until each company can be furnished with an orderly book, the officers commanding regiments

are to see that their officers and men are clearly informed of every order which concerns them respectively, by reading or causing the same to be distinctly read to them—Should there be in future, a well grounded plea of ignorance of orders, the commanding officers of regts will consider themselves as answerable therefor.


Title: Warrant to Colonel Clement Biddle, 26 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Clement

[Camp near Pottsgrove, Pa., 26 September 1777]

You are hereby authorized to impress all the Blankets, Shoes Stockings and other Articles of Clothing for the use of the Army, that can be spared by the Inhabitants in the Counties of Bucks Philada and Northampton, paying for the same at reasonable Rates, or give Certificates. Given at Camp near Potts Grove this 26th day of Septemr 1777.


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. David Forman, 26 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. David Forman, 26 Sept. 1777. GW wrote Forman on 27 Sept.: “I received your favor of the 26th Inst.”


Title: From George Washington to Elbridge Gerry, 26 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Gerry, Elbridge

D. Sir
4 miles from Pots Grove [Pa.] Sept. 26th 1777.

I was this Morning favoured with your Letter of the 24th. When I wrote Congress, I was informed, that there were several Arms in Lancaster belonging to the public. These with their Accoutrements, I wished to be collected & put into the Hands of the Militia coming from Virginia; But I did not mean that any—the property of Individuals, should be taken, because I did not conceive myself authorized, nor do I at this time, to order such a measure. I don’t know how the Inhabitants would relish such an exercise of power. I rather think it would give great uneasiness. The Army is much distressed for Blankets & Shoes and I wish the most vigorous exertions could be pursued to make a collection, the speediest possible, where you are & in the Neighbourhood. I am satisfied, if proper steps were taken, many might be procured. I have been and am doing all I can to make a collection, But what will be obtained, will be totally inadequa⟨te⟩ to the Demand.
We are now in motion & advanci⟨ng⟩ to form a junction with Genl McDougal. I expect to be joined in a day or Two by Genl Foreman with Fourteen or Fifteen Hundred Jersey Militia. The Main body of the Enemy are also advancing towards Philadelphia and were below German Town from my last advices, which also mentioned, That a Thousand Infantry with about a Hundred Dragoons had filed off towards Chesnut Hill. I fear they are pushing for Bristol, after our Stores, which I am apprehensive are not entirely removed, though I gave Orders for it, the moment I heard they were there. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 26 September 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Lancaster [Pa.] 26 September 1777

I Arriv’d last Eveng at this place, where I was honour’d with your Letter of 23d Inst. which I shall lay before Congress as soon as the whole of the Members arrive here which I Expect will be this Day.
The Inclos’d Letters for Commodore Hazelwood & Capt. Alexander, the Marine Committee judg’d best to forward, at least to induce them to Exert themselves to the last, they are left open for your perusal, after which you will please to Seal and Send them forward by such Rout as you shall Determine the properest. I am Sir Your Excellency’s Most Obedt hume Servt

John Hancock Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Kennedy, 26 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Kennedy, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Samuel Kennedy, 26 Sept. 1777. GW wrote Kennedy later on this date: “I recd yours of this date at this place.”


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Kennedy, 26 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Kennedy, Samuel

Sir
Camp at Pennybackers Mill [Pa.] 26 Sepr 1777

I recd yours of this date at this place. If the sick cannot all be accommodated at Reading part ought certainly to be removed to Lancaster, but I beg you will be careful to remove none to that place who will be soon fit for duty or who only want shoes Stockings or other Cloaths to make them so now. If you are obliged to make use of Churches or

Houses that have no fire places you should purchase Stoves to make them warm and comfortable. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Smith, 26 September 1777
From: Smith, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Sir
Ferry Ancocus [N.J.] 26th Sept. 1777.

I have the pleasure to inform your Excellency that I have just arrived here, with my party, & expect to throw myself in to Fort Mifflin this night, the want of provisions has detained me much, & the men not being properly chosen for such an expedition has been a great stop to our march, Few of them have Shoes or Stockings, many of them without Coats or Blankets & scarce any who have more than one shirt, without their clothing it will be very injurious, to their constitutions and disagreable to hear their constant murmurings. I have been obliged to send 36 men by water to Coopers Ferry who could not march farther, many of these men have their clothes in the wagons, but as it will be difficult to collect them & take up much time will it not be better to send what we want immediately from the Clothiers especially the Shoes and stockings. A list I enclose; which I expect your Excellency will order to be forwarded immediately to us. Col.  supplied us last night with Rum & some bread, & I beleive we shall be provided with other provisions at the fort. I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s M. O. S.

S.S.


Title: General Orders, 27 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, at Pennybecker’s mills [Pa.] Sept. 27th 1777.
New-Castle.Salem. Wilmington.

The General Court-Martial of which Col. Wood is president, is to sit immediately, at the house next above Head Quarters.
As the troops will rest to day, divine service is to be performed in all the corps which have chaplains.
One orderly Serjt from each brigade is to attend forthwith at Head Quarters—And the Brigade Major will see this done invariably, every day, when orders have not been previously given for marching—An orderly Serjeant from each brigade is likewise invariably to attend General Courts-martial.
Such regiments as have not already made up spare ammunition, so as to complete at least 40 rounds a man, are to do it this day without fail—The commanding officers of regiments are to see this done. And all this spare ammunition is to be marked and put into an ammunition waggon for, and to follow, each division. The men are to carry only their cartridge-boxes, and tin Cannisters full.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Carroll of Carrollton, 27 September 1777
From: Carroll, Charles (of Carrollton)
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Lancaster [Pa.] 27th Septr 1777.

I have had some conversation with Mr Peters Secretary to our board, who informs me that in the month of June last 1000 tin cartridges boxes were sent to the army and delivered to a Captain French: Mr Peters moreover informs me that to his certain knowlege several of these cartridges boxes were converted by the Soldiers into cantines & by some officers into shaving boxes. Commissary Flowers also acquainted me that there are now at Carlile upwards of 2000 tin cartridges boxes: if these are wanted in the army they may be immediately Sent for.
I am sorry to observe that two officers in high command in our army are said to be much addicted to liquor: what trust what confidence can be resposed in such men? they may disconcert the wisest & best laid plans: such men ought to be removed from their command & the army, for their example, besides the mischief which may be occasioned by a clouded & muddled brain, will have a pernicious influence on the others: but how are they to be removed from their command? I could wish to know your Excellencys Sentiments on this Subject. The interest of the best & most glorious cause ought not to be Sacrificed to a false delicacy: these are not times to put into competition the interests of a few with those of a great Community.
Nothing but severe punishments will, in my opinion, make the Commissaries & quartermasters attentive to their duty: your Excellency has the power, and I hope will not want the will to punish such as deserve punishment. I hope your Excellency will excuse the freedom of this letter: my Zeal for our country & my wishes for your Success have impelled me to write thus freely on a subject which claims all your attention, the reformation of the army & of the abuses prevalent in the two important departments of the Quarter Master & Commissary Generals. I am with much esteem Yr Excellencys most obedt hum. Servt

Ch. Carroll of Carrollton


Title: To George Washington from Landon Carter, 27 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Carter, Landon
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Landon Carter, 27 Sept. 1777. GW on 27 Oct. thanked Carter “for the good advice contained in your little paper of the 27th Ulto.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General David Forman, 27 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

Sir.
Head Quarters Pennybeckers Mill [Pa.] Sept. 27th 1777.

I received your favor of the 26th Inst. and am sorry to find you cannot bring on so respectable a force as we both cou’d wish, & you had reason to expect. however must request that you collect your scatterd parties as soon as possible, leaving only such as may be necessary to guard the stores at Trenton, untill they are remoy’d, this I have reason to believe will shortly be accomplish’d & then you may give directions to the commanding officer to join you by some safe rout. I would have you to come on by the way of No. Wayles & fall into the Skippack Road taking ev’ry precaution to avoid the Enemies left Flank after leading your Corps into the safe & Proper rout I should be glad you would come on yourself to me. I am Sir Yrs &c.

G. W——n


Title: From George Washington to Elbridge Gerry, 27 September 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Gerry, Elbridge

Sir
Camp at Pennybackers Mill [Pa.] 27th Sepr 1777

I am favd with yours of the 25th: I yesterday wrote you that I did not think myself authorized to seize upon any Arms the property of private persons, but if they can be collected and the owners satisfied for them it would be of very essential Service as great Numbers of Militia would join the Army could they be furnished with Arms. I am glad you have began the Collection of Blankets and Shoes, this Business cannot be carried to too great an extent, and I think if the Measure is properly pursued great Quantities of Blankets Rugs and Coverlids may be collected in the back Counties.
The approach of the Enemy to Philada hindered the Officers I sent upon that Business from doing much: The disaffected hid their goods the moment the thing took wind and our Friends had before parted with all they could spare.
As soon as Gibsons Regiment or any of the Virginia Militia arrive at Lancaster be pleased to forward them without delay. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Page, 27 September 1777 [letter not found]
From: Page, John
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Page, 27 Sept. 1777. GW wrote Page on 11 Oct.: “Your favor of the 27th I received yesterday Afternoon.”