Title: From George Washington to Rear Admiral Ternay, 5 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Ternay, Charles-Henri-Louis d’Arsac, chevalier de

						Sir
						Head qrs pecks Kill Aug. 5th 1780

					I received yesterday the honor of Your Letter of the 31st of last Month and feel myself exceedingly obliged by the very polite manner, in which You have been pleased to express Yourself. I assure You, Sir, I am persuaded that You have done and will do, all in your power to answer the intentions of the King in sending you here, and to promote the common cause. It is only to be wished that you may be soon so reinforced, as to be in circumstances to act according to your desires.

					In consequence of a Letter which the Count de Rochambeau did me the honor to write on the 22d of July, which he requested might be forwarded to His Excellency the Chevalier de la Luzerne, and which was on the subject of the second division coming from France and of the measures to be purs[u]ed in order to announce to it that the Enemy’s fleet were off Rhode Island, I took the liberty to mention to the Minister, that I thought the Delaware the best place for the reception of the 2d division, and also that a plan would be necessary to be previously fixed for the junction of the Fleets after the debarkation of the Troops; and that I should write to the Count for that purpose. This I accordingly did, and requested him to concert a plan with You that it might be transmitted to Mr Luzerne. I have no doubt my Letter on this subject has been communicated to You by the Count, and I hope I shall be honoured in the course of a day or Two with a communication of the plan which You shall judge proper to adopt. I am the more desirous of receiving it, as the Minister has lately requested me by a verbal messag⟨e⟩ by Colo. Gimat, who returned from philadelphia th⟨e⟩ night before last, to send him instructions w⟨ith⟩ respect to the measures which the Division shou⟨ld⟩ pursue for forming a junction with the firs⟨t.⟩ I inclose You a Copy of the Letter I wrote to His Excellency Yesterday in Answer to his request, and by which You will perceive that I do not think myself qualified to decide the point, as it concerns the Marine & must combin⟨e⟩ the consideration of many circumstances which You and the Count alone can be acquainted with. I have the honor to be With the most perfect consideration & estee⟨m,⟩ sir Your Most Obedt servt

						G.W.

						P.S. Agreable to the application made for the purpose, I find, by the message communicated by Colo. Gimat, that the Minister has sent out several Vessels to fall in with the Second Division, if it arrives off Delaware or the Capes of Virginia.


Title: General Orders, 6 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Verplank’s Point [N.Y.] Sunday August 6th 1780

							Parole Haverstraw
							 Countersigns Heat, Hope.Watchword Alltogether

					The General will beat at one o clock tomorrow morning the Assemble at half past one, and the whole Army will march by the right at two, by such routes as shall be pointed out.
					As the Wings will move in different routes they will furnish their respective Advanced, rear and baggage Guards. A Field officer from the Front division of each wing will command their respective advanced guards—one from each of the second divisions their rear Guards—The rear divisions give each one to command the baggage Guards and superintend the movement of the baggage of the Wings respectively.

						After Orders Stoney Point August 6th 1780Order of March
						The right column will Consist of the corps of[:] Light Infantry[;] right wing[:] St Clairs Division[,] Stirling’s Division[,] Connecticutt Line[;] The Park of Artillery[;] Engineer’s Department[;] The Baggage of the General Staff of the right Wing[;] The Flying Hospital[;] The Baggage of the right column in the order of the Brigade[;] Quarter Master General’s Stores[;] Commissary General’s Stores[;] The Rear Guards consisting of the old Camp Guards of the right wing.
						The Corps of Light Infantry will march at four hundred yards distance from the Wing preceded by a Van Guard of one Battalion at the same distance in its front, which will also advance a Subaltern’s command four hundred yards in front. The Pioneers and a detachment of Artificers will succeed the Van Guard to repair roads.
						This Column will take the route by Kakeat to Clarks town, and there Halt for the night.
						The Left Column will consist of a Van Guard of three Hundred and ninety six men commanded by a Field Officer from the front Division preceded by a detachment of Light Dragoons at four hundred yards in front of the Left Wing followed by the Pioneers and a detachment of Artificers to repair the roads.
						Left Wing[:] Howe’s division[,] McDougall’s [division,] Steuben’s [division,] The Baggage of the Committee of Congress[,] The Commander in Chief and general staff of the Left wing in the order of the brigades[,] The Baggage of the Left Wing in the order of the brigades[,] The Rear guards consisting of the old Camp & Quarter guards of the left wing.
						The Van Guard of the Wing will detach a Subaltern’s command of Dragoons two hundred yards in front to keep patroles constantly

going on the roads leading from Fort Lee as well to the right as the left column half a mile or more in advance.
						This Column will take the route by the Haverstraw Pond road to Greenbush and there Halt for the Night.
						All Stragglers are as soon as possible to be reported to the Field Officers of the day and they are Authoriz’d to inflict discretionary punishment on any offenders, upon the Spot not to exceed fifty Lashes.
						The General entreats and enjoins for the reputation of the service and for the security of the Army a punctual observance of all the regulations relative to the march of an Army.
						The Quarter Master General will appoint one of his deputies to lead each Column and will furnish Guides.
						The Inspectors in each Wing will do the Duty of Adjutant General to the Wing in Rotation.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benedict Arnold, 6 August 1780
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters Robinsons House August 6th 1780

					On my arival at this Post I found every thing thrown into great Confusion, by the Troops removing from hence, and the Militia coming in. Colonel Malcomb had ordered returns to be made of the Militia, Provisions, and Stores of every kind, which I expect this morning, and will transmit a Copy to your Excellency. I believe a Sufficient Number of Militia have arived to replace those of this State, who will leave this tomorrow or Next day, I am sorry to observe that there is not One Tent for the Militia, (which are absolutely Necessary at the Redoubts) and the Barracks will Not Contain more than Seven hundred, unless they are Crouded so as to Injure their health, and many of them are daily falling Sick. This will be delivered your Excellency by Docr Ledyard, who waits on you to obtain a Supply of Medicnes, and Stores for the Sick, who are Numerous and without Fresh Provisions, or any necessaries, and I am assured by him, and Docr Burnet, that there are not Hospital Stores in the Department suffucient to last the sick One Fortnight—nor is there any prospect of Obtaining a Supply, unless by an application to Congress: or Govenor Clinton.
					The quantity of Salted Meat at this Post I am informed is small; it appears to me that the whole ought to be reserved, and the Troops fed on fresh provisions, I know not from what Quarter we are to expect a Supply, I have wrote Colonel Blain on the Subject, but believe an Order from your Excellency to him will be Necessary.
					I shall pay the Strictest attention to my Orders but Cannot flatter myself with effecting as much with raw Militia, as could be done with an equal Number of disciplined Troops, and I am very apprehensive, that the Troops by being exposed will become Sickly, and Desertions follow in Consequence. I have the honor to be with great respect and esteem Your Excellencys Obedient Hbl. Servt

						B. Arnold


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benedict Arnold, 6 August 1780
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Head quarters Robinsons House 6 Augt 1780

					This Morning I had the honor to receive your Excellency’s favor of yesterday by Major Villefranche, who will imediately inspect the Works and report the necessary Repairs, which shall be undertaken and executed as soon as possible.
					I shall pay particular Attention to the Matters mentioned in Colol Malcomb’s Letter & wish to be informed if your Excellency intends the Garrison to consist of 1500 Men, exclusive of those detached to fish-Kill and other Places on Duty, which amount to near 300.
					Inclosed is a Copy of Returns of Provisions & Quarter Masters Stores, the latter is triffling indeed, and the Militia make great Complaints for want of Camp Kettles &c. Axes will be also indispensably necessary.
					There is no fresh Provisions on hand & not above ten days of Salt, which if possible, I think, should be reserved for a future day.
					The Militia who have come in from the State of Massachussetts Bay Amount to 1234, those from New Hampshire to 483 [total] 1717.
					I must request your Excellency to order an Officer to this Post to act as Inspector and Depy Ajt General, who is well Acquainted with the Duty, as there is not one Officer in the Militia, but is tottally unacquainted with it. I have the honor to be Your Excellencys most obedient and very Humble Servant

						B. Arnold


Title: From George Washington to the Board of Admiralty, 6 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of Admiralty

						Gentlemen
						Head Quarters [Peekskill] 6th August 1780

					By a late resolution of Congress the Continental Frigates are put under my orders; but this seems not to be till after they have joined the Chevalier De Ternay. This at present seems to be impracticable; and I therefore request to be informed whether I am expected to take any direction in the matter previous to the junction before proposed or not—that I may govern myself accordingly. The Minister of France has proposed to me the employing one or more of the Frigates in cruising off to fall in with the second division; by which at the same time they would be of service to our Trade. I should think it would be a very useful way of employing them at this juncture; but as I do not conceive the Frigates to be yet under my direction I have referred him to Congress or your Board. I have the honor to be With perfect respect Gentn Your Mo. Obet Servt

						Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Mary Dagworthy, 6 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Dagworthy, Mary

						Hd Qrs [Peekskill] 6 Augt 1780

					Some time since I was honored with your letter of the 17th July, with a sum of money the result of your subscriptions at that time. So much patriotism, while it is a pleasing and fresh proof of the spirit of the ladies of Jersey, entitles them to every applause. The army feel most sensibly both the design and the benefaction.
					I have to request the ladies that till it is known in what manner the Philada subscriptions are to be applied, that they will suspend sending forward any more, or rather that if it is their pleasure, that they will consult Mrs President Reed on the occasion—and unite their subscriptions with Those of Philada. I have the honor

						G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General John Fellows, 6 August 1780
From: Fellows, John
To: Washington, George

						Sir,
						Sheffield [Mass.] 6. August 1780.

					I have recd your Excellency’s Letter of the 31. ult., imediately I dispatched Major Root to Claverack, with Orders to direct such of the detached Militia as he should find there to repair to Tryon County, I have now recd a Letter from him in which I am informed there are no more than 35 Men at that Place these together with those of this County amounting to 300 are all the Men I have it in my Power to send to the Assistance of Genl Van Ransalear.
					I have no authentic Inteligence but I presume part of the Detachment of Militia are ordered to the Reinforcement of the french garrison at Newport. these having no Men for some days past, (except small stragling Parties,) passed thru’ this County on their way to Claverack. I have the Honor to be Sir, your Excellency’s most Obedt & very huml. Sert

						John Fellows


Title: From George Washington to La Luzerne, 6 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

						sir
						Peek’s Kill August the 6th 1780

					I had this morning the honor to receive Your Excellency’s Letter of the 30th of July, with the One addressed to the Chevalier de Ternay, which I have sealed & forwarded by an Express.

					With respect to the Continental Frigates—I beg leave to inform Your Excellency, that I did not apprehend from the Resolution of Congress concerning them, that they were to be under my orders or to receive any instructions from me, till they had joined the Chevalier de Ternay, after assembling in the Delaware. This being the case I cannot give any directions about them at present and would take the liberty to recom⟨mend⟩ to Your Excellency to apply to Congress o⟨r⟩ to the Board of Admiralty, to the Latter of whom I have written, to give their Orders to the Captains of the Frigate⟨s⟩ on the conduct they are to pursu⟨e⟩ The employment for them or at le⟨ast⟩ for One, which Your Excellency ⟨has⟩ suggested, appears to me to be prope⟨r⟩ and that it would answer the do⟨uble⟩ purposes You have mentioned. I ha⟨ve⟩ by my Letter of to day to the Chevali⟨er⟩ de Ternay, requested him to advise me in what manner he thinks the Frigates may be most usefully employed to assist his Fleet, and that there might be no further de⟨lay⟩ when matters with respect to th⟨em⟩ are ultimately fixed, I requested h⟨im⟩ also to communicate to the Captains of the Frigates at Boston, ⟨as well⟩ as to myself, the Signals of recognisance. When I receive his Answer, I will embrace the earliest occasion to transmit the Signals. I have the Honor to be With the Most perfect attachment & respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt servant

						Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Silvanus Seely, 6 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Seely, Silvanus

						sir
						Verplank’s point [N.Y.] Augt 6th 1780

					I just now received Your Letter of the 4th. I wish You to use your best exertions to collect the remainder of the Militia at Morris Town, where they will continue till You hear further from me. I shall however be glad to hear from You from time to time, and of the numbers that come in,

as I shall from this information be better able to direct their march & further destination. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt st

						G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 7 August 1780
From: Hay, Udny
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						FishKill [N.Y.] 7th August 1780

					Being able to gett no definitive answer yesterday respecting my Department, when I had the honour of mentioning its situation to Your

Excellency, the only member present of the Committee of Cooperation, and General Greene, in justification of my Character I thought it my duty this day officially to write the latter by the bearer of this, Captn Copp, with orders to deliver to your Excellency & the honourable member of the Committee this letter enclosing a Copy of that sent to General Greene, hoping thereby to obtain such orders from you and the honourable member (should General Greene decline giving them himself) as will soon relieve me from a State of anxiety which I find myself no longer able to bear, and will place the Department I have now had the honour of managing for near two Years and a half past upon a permanent and solid foundation.
					Should it be thought improper to grant me an answer, the bearer Capt. Copp, has a letter for his Excellency the President of Congress on the subject, from whom a definitive answer will undoubtedly be obtaind. I have the honour to be with every sentement of respect, Your Excellency’s most obedient and very humble Sert

						Udny Hay


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Jones, 7 August 1780
From: Jones, Joseph
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sr
						[Philadelphia, 7 Aug. 1780]

					Your Letter to Col. Harrison turns out as I expected before I received your full information. If the whole had been read and attended to it was impossible to put any other construction on your manner of treating the Subject than to convince your correspondent of the absolute necessity of great exertions this Campaign; while we had a promising prospect before us, least by remissness and delay we should find our ally as well as ourselves embarrassed with greater difficulties than at present and I very sincerely wish, should this Summer pass away without some signal advantage gained on our part we may not find your conjectures verified in event. I have my hopes we shall yet be able to do something important upon the arrival of the French reinforcement as I presume their Fleet will then command the Water without which I confess I have no sanguine expectations with the command of the water the enterprise

may be successfull. Mr Bingham has recd a Letter from Martinique informing him the combined Fleets fell to Leeward on the 5th July supposed for Jamaica thirty three or thirty six ships of the line and 12000 Troops they expected a reinforcement of a few thousand Troops more. If this account be true it is probable Jamaica will fall and that we may have them along our Coast.
					You are desired by some late resolutions to turn your thoughts towards the recovery of S. Carolina & Georgia as soon as the operations of the Campaign in this quarter have been executed. Gates’s and De Kalbs Letters represent the distresses of the Southern Department in a very gloomy light as to provisions and equipment. The virga Recruits when raised are ordered to join that army—if this inter⟨feres⟩ with your plans you should let us know it as they will not be ready to march untill the begining of next month. The Law past by the Legislature will probably bring into the Field about 3000. A Colonel or Major Pinkney of South Carolina writes Col. Motte a Delegate of that State that the Enemy are not more than 2500 strong at their Posts in the Country exclusive of Horse of which they have a strong Corps and about 800 or 1000 men in Charles Town—of our 2500 Militia not above 1500 had reached Hillsbor⟨ough⟩ in N. Carolina but Mr D. Jameson of the Virga privy Council writes us that many of the Deserters had been taken up and sent forward to Hillsborough. Caswell had abt 1200 Militia under him. Baylors and Blands Dragoons nearly equipt So that if they can get provisions sufficient and forage wch by this time it is probable they are furnished with they will be in condition to face the Enemy and I hope drive them into the Town.
					We have been greatly perplexed the last Week with General Greenes refusal to act in the Office of Quarter Master General unless the New System was totally repealed And he was allowed to conduct it under your direction in such manner as he thought most conducive to the public Service besides Congress were to request Pettit & Coxe to resume their Offices. If Genl Greene thought the New System wanted amendment and had pointed out the defect Congress wod have considered the matter and I doubt not wod have made the necessary alteration—But the manner of these demands made in such peremptory terms—at the moment of action when the Campaign was opened the Enemy in the Field and our ally waiting for Cooperation—has lessened Genl Greene not only in the Opinion of Congress but I think of the Public—and I question whether it will terminate with the acceptance of his refusal only. On Saturday Col. Pickering was appointed to the Office of Quarter Master General with the Rank of Colonel & the pay and Rations of a Brigadier General and to hold his place at the Board of War without pay or right to act while in the office of Quarter Master General. This

Gentlemans Integrity Ability and attention to Business will I hope not only prevent the evils to be apprehended from a change in so important a Department at this time but will I hope be able to reform Some of the abuses crept into that Business and lessen the amazing expenditure of the Department. He must if he accepts have a disagreeable office in the present State of our Finance but we must support him all we can. The promotion I lately mentioned has not taken place though if we take up the Business I suppose it will be done as M. is the oldest Colonel and Gates is the only Major General belonging to Virga and the State has a right to two but I see no occasion of stir⟨ing⟩ in it at present as if taken up it must be upon the general principle of promotion and then not only Virga but Maryland and other States will expect to partake of the same privilege of bringin⟨g⟩ forward their officers—when I believe there are few States whose lines are so full as to justify the promotions. I am Dr Sr Yr aff. hum: Servt

						Jos: Jones.


Title: General Orders, 8 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Orange town [N.Y.] Tuesday August 8th 1780

							Parole Clarkestown
							 Countersigns N: D. Watchword New York

					The General requires the most particular attention to the order of yesterday, respecting Arms and Ammunition which our being in the vicinity of the Enemy renders peculiarly essential.
					The men wanting arms are to be supplied without delay—and the recruits as fast as they arrive. A sufficient stock is to be kept on hand for this purpose.
					The order for keeping the bayonets constantly fixed has been during the March unpardonably neglected by part of the Troops: it is to be strictly observed, and the officers commanding regiments will see that the Bayonet Belts and scabbards are delivered to the Brigade Conductors taking their receipts for the number delivered and they will deliver them to the Field Commissary of military stores: The Light Infantry Companies will deliver them to their respective regiments to be included in the above.

					The Marquis de la Fayette being returned will take the Command of the Light Infantry and Major General St Clair will resume that of the Pennsylvania division.
					Captain Moses White of Colonel Hazen’s regiment is appointed to do the duty of Brigade Inspector in General Poors brigade ’till further orders vice Major Scott indisposed.
					The Brigade Inspectors are to attend at the orderly office this Afternoon at four ô clock.

						After Orders
						[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:] Brigadier General Nixon[,] Colonel Greaton[,] Lieutenant Colonel Millen[,] Brigade Major Van Lear.
						The picquets to parade at six o clock this afternoon on the Green near the church which is Assigned for the Grand parade at present. The Troop to beat at half past six ô clock—The Guards and picquets to be on the Grand Parade at half past seven precisely. one private to every thirteen must be brought on to the Grand Parade in addition to the Details.
						The Field officers who commanded the advanced Guards of the right and Left column will attend to Post the Picquets this evening. Brigade Major McGowan will attend the formation.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Benedict Arnold, 8 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters Orange town 8th Augt 1780

					I have recd both your favors of the 6th. I wish it were in my power to furnish the Militia with Tents and Camp Kettles, but such is our situation with respect to these Articles—especially the first, that the troops in the feild are not fully provided, and I very much fear the deficiency will continue thro’ the Campaign. Under these circumstances, as nothing better can be done, I would recommend that those Men, who cannot be accommodated in the Barracks and Bomb Proofs of the Redoubts, should immediately set about making themselves cover of Bark and Boughs, which may be made with some little pains more comfortable than Tents. The Quarter Master General, as I wrote you before, gives hopes of Camp Kettles in a short time.

					Doctor Cochran has lately been to Philada expressly for the purpose of procuring Medicines and Stores for the Hospitals. He obtained some at the time, and he informs me matters were put in proper train by the Medical Committee to increase the supply. A quantity of Medicines have arrived at Rhode Island, which are ordered forward.
					The stock of Salt provision tho’ small, ought if possible to be preserved, and I shall therefore write to Colo. Blaine on the subject, lest your representation to him should not have the proper effect.
					I intend that the Garrison of the post shall consist of 1500 Men, exclusive of the detachments necessary at Fishkill &ca and a party of 150 properly officered to act under the command of Colo. Sheldon who lays in the neighbourhood of North Castle. Colo. Hull is at present down there with a detachment of Continental Troops. You will be pleased to releive him immediately from the Massachusetts Militia. And untill the Militia from that State amount to a number sufficient to furnish the Garrison and detachments, you will detain those from New Hampshire.
					I will take the first opportunity of desiring the Baron Steuben to nominate an Officer for subinspector and Dy Adjt General to the Garrison—You will be pleased in the mean time to appoint some person to do that duty.
					I am well aware that the composition of your command will subject you to many difficulties, and that as much cannot be expected from them as from Regular Troops, but I am confident at the same time that you will do the utmost with them. I am Sir Your most obt Servt

						Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benedict Arnold, 8 August 1780
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters Robinsons House 8th Augt 1780

					Col. Stewart, Commy General of Issues has made a demand on the Commy at this Post, for thirty Hogsheads of Rum, as there are only Fifty odd in the Magazine, I have desired him to send only fifteen, which will be a present Supply for the Army, the Remainder will be necessary for

the Use of the Garrison; The Commy informs me that he expects no more, & as large Supplies are coming on from Philadelphia I think the Army cannot want.
					I wish your Excellency would be kind enough to order Mr Erskine to send me a Map of the Country from this Place to New-York, particularly on the East side of the River, which would be very useful to me.
					The Officers in general from the State of Massachussetts Bay have never been in the Service before, and are extreamly ignorant of their duty, which throws every thing into Confusion, and in Case of an Attack on the Post, from their inexperience, I beleive little dependance can be placed on them; The Troops are good and well armed, would it not be better Sir to continue a part or the whole of the New York Brigade at this Post whose Officers (particularly Col. Malcomb) are well acquainted with the duty and can be depended on, and the Troops have in general bad Arms & few Bayonets.
					I am convinced that the Massachussetts or Hampshire Troops will be better in the Field from this Circumstance in their Arms.
					Major Villefranche has surveyed the Works, at West Point and informs me, that there is a vast deal to do to compleat them, that large Quantities of Materials, such as Timber, Plank, Boards, Stone &c., will be wanted, part of the Materials are at different Places near this Post, but I do not find that there are any Teams, or Forrage in the Department, and at present there is no prospect of any being furnished.
					I am sorry to trou⟨ble your⟩ Excellency with so long a List of Grievances and am very respectfully Your Excellencys most obt and oblige. Humble Servant

						B. Arnold


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 8 August 1780
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						War Office [Philadelphia] Augt 8. 1780

					The Board have been honoured with your Letter of the 3d inst. We are taking every Measure in our Power to procure Shot & Shells & shall provide the greatest Quantity our Means will enable us. We agree with your Excellency in the Expediency & Propriety of looking forward to another Campaign in all Supplies necessary for the Army. Nothing shall

be wanting on our Parts but we fear the public Finances will as here to fore narrow all our Plans & Endeavors. We shall lay before Congress our Opinion of the Necessity of purchasing the Powder at Boston & when enabled to pay for it will chearfully direct the Purchase. We asked some time ago for a Sum of Money to purchase Powder, but Congress did not comply with our Request. We will however make a second Application on the Subject. Great Expectations are formed on the Stores said to be on their Way from Europe & we hope there may not be proportionate Dissappointments.
					We are extremely uneasy on the Score of Cloathing for the Troops. In Consequence of your Excellency’s Letter of the 20th of June last complaining of the Want of Linnen we reported to Congress that twenty thousand Pounds Sterlg in Bills of Exchange should be put in our Hands for the purpose of buying Linnen for Shirts & Overalls. We obtained the Bills & immediately sent to our Agents to make the Purchases, but have heard Nothing from them on the Subject. We fear the Bills have a dull Sale & therefore that the Agents have not been successful. We will communicate your Excellency the first good Intelligence we have relative to this expected Supply which we thought would keep the Troops in some Degree comfortable ’till the Arrival of the European Cloathing. We have the Honour to be with the highest respect & Esteem Your very obedt Servants

						Richard PetersBy Order


Title: From George Washington to James Bowdoin, 8 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Bowdoin, James

						Sir
						Head Quarters near Orange Town 8th August 1780

					I am honored with yours of the 31st ulto. The measure of ordering the three months militia to repair to Rhode Island upon the

expectation of the British Army was certainly right, but as the force which was embarked on the Sound has returned again to new York—I imagine the Count De Rochambeau will not think them longer necessary and that they will be ordered to proceed to the north River. The French Admiral will spare us as much Powder as he possibly can, but as he did not come out provided to answer any extra demand we cannot expect much from him—I am much obliged by the loan of Muskets and car-touch Boxes—Tho’ they fall short of the requisition, yet as they are all which could be procured, the State is as much intitled to thanks as if it had been in their power to have supplied the whole. I have the honor to be With very great respect Sir Your Most Obet & hum. Serv.

						Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 8 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

						Sir
						Head Quarters near Orange Town 8th Augt 1780

					I was yesterday evening favored with your letter of the 21st of June.
					A few days since upon Col. Kosciusco’s application for leave to serve to the Southward, he obtained my permission, and I suppose designs setting out immediately. Capn Dallizen accompanies him.
					Gen: Clinton having gone up the Sound apparently with the intention of operating against the French armament at Rhode Island this army crossed the North-River at King’s-ferry on the 30th Ulto to be in a situation to act as circumstances might authorize. Our advices gave to Clinton about 8000 troops, so that New-York was left exposed to our attempts. We were pushing every thing to this point, when we received advice that Clinton was returning to New-York. This necessarily put a stop to our movements, and as the objects for which we crossed the river had ceased, we recrossed it on the 4th & 5th instant. We intend to occupy a post at Dobb’s ferry, for the end of shortening our transportation, and saving the forage in the opposite quart⟨er⟩ which we may want in our future approaches, should it be in our power to do any thing decisive against New-York.
					The stationary has long since come to hand for which I am much obliged to you. I am sir your obt & hble sert

						Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major John Mauritius Goetschius, 8 August 1780
From: Goetschius, John Mauritius
To: Washington, George

							[Closter, N.J.] Dated agust 8 1780

						Being Ordered by the Governor of jersey state to take Post near Dobb Ferry their to receave Direction from His Excellency the Commander In Chief. I hereby Inform His Excellency General Wasshington that I am at present near Dobbs Ferry Commanding a Detachment of 150 Men belonging to the state Ridgment being inlisted Perticular for Bergen County and cheef of my men wel acquainted in this County[.] am here Waiting for your Excellencies orders and remain in all Respects with submission most Obidient sarvant

							John Mauritius Goetschius Major Commadant

						laying in Cloaster 3 Mile below Dobs ferry arrived there this Morning


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 8 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

						Dr Sir
						Head qrs Orange Town Augt 8. 1780

					I have received in order of their dates your several Letters of the 31st & 31st Ulto & of the 2d & 4th Instant.
					I am exceedingly happy in the conduct of the Militia, in turning out with so much spirit & alacrity. It does them great honor, at the same time it is very interesting to the Common cause. The Count de Rochambeau has expressed himself highly pleased with them, and in such

terms as has given me much satisfaction. Gratitude Interest and policy combined in the strongest manner to lead us to give him the earliest and effectual support. The Count will have received long before this, my Letters advising him of the certain return of Genl Clinton to New York, and will have made every necessary arrangement in consequence of it. You will see by my Letter of the 3d that your joining the Army is entirely with Yourself. Sir Henry Clinton’s return having put an end to the plan I had formed of an immediate attempt on New York, while he should be operating to the Eastward, the Army has passed the River & we are now going, agreable to my original design, to establish, as soon as possible, a communication for the present across the River at Dobbs’s ferry, in order to aid our land transportation and facilitate our supplies of bread, which at any rate will be found sufficiently difficult, but much less so, than if the flour was to be carried the circuitous rout by King’s ferry and thence to the plains.
					I very much wish that the Fleet reported to have been met at sea, may have been the second division from France, and that it may get safe into port. In order to give it the better chance for this, it would be well the intelligence should remain a secret; for should it reach the Enemy, they will try every possible measure, they can devise, to intercept it. I am Dr Sir With great regard Yr Most Obedt st

						Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Captain George Hurlbut, 8 August 1780
From: Hurlbut, George
To: Washington, George

						Rhode Island 8th Augst 80.2 O’Clock P.M.
						May it Please your Excellency,

					I am to acquaint you Mr shaw, could not comply with your Request. I immediately Ordered off, one Dragoon from the stages back, and Disposed of them Agreeable to your Excellency’s Orders—my last stage is near Tour Hill. immediately upon my Arrival there, I proceeded on to Rhode Island, to acquaint the Commanding Officer of what I had done—(& further more) of the Request your Excellency made to Mr shaw, (& his Answer[)]. The Genll Very kindely offer’d me six Hussards, to ride expresses from Rhode Island to New London, which I excepted of—I shall proceed on with the Hussars, & place them, to the Stages

the Dragoons now are, & immediately go to N. London & there am to Remain till further orders from Colo. Sheldon—Should your Excellency disapprove of my Conduct, should be happy to be inform’d & will endeavour to dispose of the Dragoons as they first were—If your Excellency Orders the Hussards to Return, it will be Necessary to have more Dragoons sent on, or Money procured to engage Men for that Buisness as the Roads are very bad, from this, ⟨to⟩ New London. I am sr with Respect Your Excellency’s most Obdt servt

						George Hurlbut. Capt. 2nd Regt Lt D.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Peter Muhlenberg, 8 August 1780
From: Muhlenberg, John Peter Gabriel
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Fredericksburg [Va.] August the 8th 1780

					By this days post I was honord with Your Excellencys Letter, directed to Major Genl Gates, or in his Absence to me—containing the Arrangement of the Officers, belonging to Colo. Gists Regiment. Enclosd I do myself the Honor to transmit Your Excellency The Bill for raising the 3000 New Levies; and likewise a Letter I have just receivd from General Gates. I shall set out in the Morning for Chesterfield Court house, in order to send in such of the Old Soldiers as are there at present. As some of the Officers were om⟨itted⟩ in the first Return I had the Honor to tr⟨ansmit⟩ Your Excellency, I have since arangd them to their Old Battallions as far as possible. I have the Honor to be with great Respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt hble Servt

						P: Muhlenberg


Title: From George Washington to Major Jean Murnan, 8 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Murnan, Jean-Bernard-Bourg Gauthier de

						Sir
						Head Quarters near Orange Town 8th Augt 1780

					I am sorry to find by a letter from His Excellency Governor Trumbull accompanied by a deposition of Capt. Green of Colo. Wyllis’s Regt that a Quarter Master Sergeant of the Regt has been stabbed by you in the Arm and Body. I will not undertake to say whether the provocation you recd from the Sergeant did or did not justify the proceeding, as I have only heard the complaint of one party, but as the matter has irritated not only the Militia but the inhabitants in that quarter, I have thought it best to recall you—You will therefore immediately upon the receipt of this return to the Army.

						I am &.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant General Rochambeau, 8 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

						Sir
						Head Quarters near Orange Town 8th Augt 1780

					I have been honored with your Excellency’s favor of the 5th. The return of the enemy has been confirmed by my letters previous to this. Had they gone forward, your Excellency’s arrangements promised every thing favorable.
					I flatter myself the account you have transmitted respecting the second division will prove authentic: I think with your Excellency, that under present circumstances, the information should be with held from the enemy. With the utmost esteem and consideration, I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obt servt

						Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Stoddert, 8 August 1780
From: Stoddert, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						War-Office [Philadelphia] August 8. 1780

					In consequence of information recd by Mr Bradfurd Comy of Prisoners here, from the persons who forwarded them on—that Lieutenants Leonard & Thompson & Ensign Lawrence of Bartons Regt in the service of the Enemy were captured in a place which left strong suspicions of their being Spies—the board have ordered them to be confined in Goal until your Excellency’s determination on the papers transmitted you by the Captors on this subject, is known. I have the honor to be With the highest respect. Yr Excellency’s Most Obed. Most humble Servant.

						Ben Stoddert Secy


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 8 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters near Orange Town 8th August 1780

					I am honored with Your Excellency’s favor of the 4th Inst. I am sorry that any disputes and differences should have happened between Major Murnan and the Inhabitants and Militia—As it is difficult to reconcile matters after they have been carried to such a height as appears by Capt. Greens deposition I have thought it best to recall Major Murnan—You will be pleased to forward the inclosed to him, which is for that purpose.
					Your Excellency will, I presume before the receipt of this, have heard that General Clinton with the Fleet and Troops which had been at Huntington returned on the 31st ulto to New York—Should the Militia in consequence of this, return to their former station on Connecticut River, you will be pleased to direct them to proceed in making Fascines and Gabions. I have the honor to be With the highest respect & esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obet hum. Servt

						Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 9 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Orange Town Wednesday August 9th 1780

							Parole Tuscany
							 Countersigns Truro TimeWatchword Emulation

					[Officers] Of the Day Tomorrow[:] Brigadier General Patterson[,] Colonel Hazen[,] Lieutenant Colonel Basset[,] Brigade Major Fish
					The Army to be Inspected tomorrow in which Inspection the whole number of recruits that have joined is to be ascertained The Inspectors will meet the Inspector General five ô clock this afternoon at the orderly office to receive Instructions.
					There being no Inspector to General McDougall’s Division the Inspector General will Inspect that himself.

					An alarm will be communicated by two guns (as usual) from the right of the right wing when the troops will immediately form on their respective parades.
					The officers commanding the Wings and the light Corps will meet this afternoon four ô clock at General Greene’s quarters to concert the necessary precautions for the security of the Camp.
					The Left Wing will take care of Dobbs Ferry and the approaches on the rear—The light corps will take care of the Front extending its attention to the Closter Landing, the roads ledding from Fort Lee &ca and the right Wing will guard the approaches on the right—There will be two Grand Parades one for the right the other for the left wing where the detachments from each will assemble—A Field officer of the Day for each Wing will be appointed and a brigadier of the day for the whole.
					The soldiers are on no pretence to be suffered to straggle as it is of the greatest importance in our present position that we should be at all times compact and ready to act with our whole force at the shortest notice—The regulations for preserving order and cleanliness in Camp are most punctually to be observed—On the latter particularly in this hot season the health of the men absolutely depends No time is to be lost in sinking Wells as the water of the brook is rather indifferent—The men are by all means to be kept from eating or destroying the unripe Fruit—The General exhorts the officers of all ranks to exert themselves to prevent injury to the persons and property of the Inhabitants and to bring offenders to the most summary punishment—Plundering and Violence are a disgrace to the Name of an American soldier and an insult to the Authority of his officer—During the March and even since his arrival on this ground the General has been mortified with repeated Complaints of the most licentious Excesses committed by particular Corps.
					Great Care is to be taken to prevent the horses of the Army breaking into the fields of Grain—Guards are to be stationed and other necessary measures taken for this Purpose.
					Major Goetshius with the Corps under his command is to join the light Infantry and take his orders from the Marquis de la Fayette.
					Captain Lawrence with his company of Levies will take orders from Major General Lord Stirling ’till the Brigade to which he belongs joins the Army.
					The Picquets and Guards will assemble on the Grand Parade tomorrow morning, after that on the Wing Parade.

						After Orders
						The Generals commanding divisions will fix on a proper spot within the distance of a Mile or two of their encampments large enough for

the exercise of two Battalions where they will see their respective divisions exercised in the following manner.
						Every morning from four to six ô clock two battalions from each division will be exercised by a Brigadier and in the absence of the Brigadier by the next oldest Officer off duty—Each battalion to consist of 1 Colonel or Lieut. Colonel 1 Major 6 Captains 12 Subs. 1 Adjutant 26 Serjeants 8 Corporals 16 Drums & fifes [and] 240 Privates.
						Exclusive of this number each battalion is to have sixteen supernumerary men paraded behind the battalion to replace any men who may be taken sick or are otherwise unfit for exercise that the battalions may be always 120 files complete—To which the Majors and Adjutants are to pay particular attention—On the battalions arriving at the place of exercise the platoons are to exercise seperately in detail half an hour in the manual and firings—the Non commissioned officers to form a platoon by themselves and be exercised by the Adjutant—the battalions will afterwards perform such of the Evolutions prescribed in the regulations as the Major Generals shall order.
						The Inspector General will exercise each division in turn and when Present will command himself instead of the Brigadier.
						The Generals Colonels and all officers will pay attention that all the men take their turns at this exercise especially all who are to be in rank and file in time of Action.
						The Exercise of the recruits is to be continued independent of the above from five to seven morning and evening in the front of each regiments encampment.
						The Generals will pay attention that all officers not otherwise employed attend at this Exercise—Those recruits who have been already exercised are now to be exercised with arms the others without arms—the exercise to begin next friday morning.
						The Inspection of the Troops will commence at six ô clock tomorrow morning—The Inspectors and Brigade Inspectors are to attend at the Orderly Office at four ô clock in the afternoon with their returns and Inspection.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 9 August 1780
From: Hay, Udny
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Fish Kill [N.Y.] 9th August 1780

					The late Derangement of every part of my business prevented my sending your Excellency before now the enclosed Copy of an order I gave Major Fonda, when in Albany, for victualling the Indians by Contract; though I look upon this as a profitable agreement, as it was not strictly in the line of my Duty I should not have adopted it, had not our then allmost total want of Provisions rendered such a mode not only eligible but absolutely necessary—It was approved of in writing by Colonel Vanschaick, and hope therefore your Excellency will please give your approbation on the inclosed Copy and retransmitt it to me; which will prevent any difficulty in settling the account.
					Your pack Saddles are making and shall be forwarded by, Your Excellencys, most respectfull very obedt & most humble Sert,

						Udny Hay


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 9 August 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

						Dear General
						Howlands Ferry [R.I.] August 9th[–12] 1780

					The day before yesterday I was honored with yours of the 3d Inst., & immediately after consulting General Count de Rochambeau,

discharged all the Militia who had come in on the alarm. The spirit & ardour discovered by the Militia on this occassion, I think, will have a very powerfull effect on the mind, both of our Friends, & Enemies.
					General de Rochambeau detains Colo. Greens Regiment, and four Regiments of three months Militia from Massachusetts, who were destined to Claverack and turned this way on the late alarm. The former, agreeable to your instructions, are injoined to pay close attention to their discipline. I have called for a return, which shall be forwarded as soon as it comes to hand. The State of Rhode Island are raiseing their Regts of three months men. I shall duly notice your injunctions respecting them. The Count has desired that the three months men from Massachusetts may be employed in repairing & strengthing the works on Butts Hill, which he considers as the key of the communication with the main, and a Post that will afford security to the Stores baggage &c. in his absence; should his Army move to act offensively elsewhere. The Troops are accordingly employed on those works. This Militia by your Excellencys orders were destined to Claverack, I pray your Instructions to what place they shall march when the Count is willing that they leave this. Haveing sent home the Militia and made the other necessary arrangements in this Quarter, I shall return to NewPort. I wish to be with our own Army, & I sincerely thank your Excellency for your assureance that my command is and will always [be] ready for me; my inclination leads me immediately to repair to it; but the sentiments held up in your letter, that I may stay longer here if necessary to the accommodation of our Allies, is taken fast hold on by the Count, who will not readily consent to my departure at present; indeed hitherto it is not possible that more harmony can subsist than has been enjoy⟨e⟩d by all the Officers on both sides, every thing is in the greatest tranquillity, nor can I wish for a better understanding than at present prevails.
					The Count has apply’d to me for a number of Drivers for his Field Artillery & ammunition Waggons. I have furnishd them from the three months Militia. They receive their provissions & additional pay of Drivers from the Count, who is exceedingly pleased with them—indeed it would be impossible for Frenchmen to drive the American horses without createing the greatest confussion and disorder especially in action. If your Excellency approves this it is well. If inadmissible they shall be ordered to join their Corps. With every Sentiment of Respect I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedt Servant

						W. Heath

						P.S. Newport Augst 12th I returned here yesterday, The British Fleet are gone to Gardners Island, except the Frigates who are Cruizing off the Harbour.

							W.H.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 9 August 1780
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

						sir,
						Philadelphia August 9. 1780

					Your Excellency will receive herewith enclosed two Acts of Congress of the 7th & 8th Instant.
					By the former you are authorized to effectuate an Exchange of Officers, in the Manner as prescribed in the Act; and also to take the necessary Steps for establishing a resident Commissary of Prisoners at New York. How far either of these Measures may be carried into Execution in the present Circumstances of the Armies your Excellency will be best able to determine.
					You will also note the Measures Congress are taking to make Provision for the Subsistence & Comfort of Prisoners that remain in Captivity; also Encouragements given by this Act for engaging a Number of Light Horse to serve as Volunteers in the southern Department during the Campaign, or at least for four Months, unless sooner discharged.
					The other Act of the 8th Instant relates to the Case of General Maxwell.
					Your several Letters of the 26th & 30th Ulto, and 3d Instant have been received and laid before Congress. I have the Honor to be with the highest respect your Excellency’s most obedient humble servant

						Sam: Huntington President


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 9 August 1780
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Richmond August 9th 1780.

					Agreeable to the resolutions of Congress of January 13. 1780, we have turned over to the Continental Commissary of Prisoners at Winchester forty prisoners of war, a roll of whom I now take the liberty of enclosing to your Excellency. I have the Honor to be with all possible respect & esteem Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servt

						Th: Jefferson


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant General Rochambeau, 9 August 1780 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

					Letter not found: to Lieutenant General Rochambeau, 9 Aug. 1780. On 14 Aug., Rochambeau, referring to a letter to him from Major General Lafayette of 9 Aug., wrote GW: “Your Letter of the same date did not make the Least mention of it.”


Title: To George Washington from Nathaniel Shaw, 9 August 1780
From: Shaw, Nathaniel
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						New London [Conn.,] Augst 9th 1780

					The Brittish Fleet Come to Sail last Sunday from of[f] this Harbour and mov’d up as farr as Gardners Island where they have been att Anchor Ever Since, only Three or four frigates Cruze between Block Island & the Fleet.
					we have Sent a Boat over to the Island to git Intelligence, and when she Returns Shall Inform you—I am Sir Your hum. Servt

						Nathl Shaw


Title: To George Washington from Abraham Skinner, 9 August 1780
From: Skinner, Abraham
To: Washington, George

						sir
						Commy Prisoners Office 9th Augt 1780

					Agreeable to your Excellency’s orders signified to me in your letter of the 24th ulto I have made the proposals to the British Commissary of prisoners for the exchange of Genl du portail taken at Charlestown, and also for the exchange of Genl Burgoyne for our Colonels prisoners with the enemy upon the principles expressed in your Letter—To which proposals I have received Mr Lorings answer, of which the inclosed is a Copy.
					At a late meeting with him for the settlement of Accounts, I find a Balance due to us of thirty private prisoners of War, which I expect to receive from among the eldest in the Enemy’s hands. I am with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most humble Servt

						Abm Skinner D. Comy Prisns


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 9 August 1780
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Lebanon [Conn.,] Augt 9th 1780

					I have not been inattentive to Your Excellency’s intimations to me respecting arms and powder—and have wrote you on the subject.
					Since which by virtue of Your Excellency’s orders—Mr Cheever at Springfield has delivered Cols. Pitkin & Woodbridge a quantity of sulphur and salt petre to be manufactured at their mill at Hartford, where they can make near two tons ⅌ week—and sufficient quantities of both are yet to be had at the Laboratory there—though the petre is not fit for use without clarifying—I shall immediately instruct Mr Doolittle at New-Haven to supply his powder works with materials from thence—which two, together with Elderkin & Wales’ at Windham, can probably turn out three tons ⅌ week.
					There is in store at Farmington in the care of Colo. Noadiah Hooker One hundred barrels of musket powder (I take it) belonging to the Continent—it has lain about two years there, tho’ I trust not materially hurt—Also sixteen hundred Weight belonging to this State.
					As to arms I wrote you of the small number we could be able to furnish—I have made inquiry of what these were at Springfield—and enclose a copy of Mr Commissary Cheever’s Return. It seems to have been a neglect in some department that no more have been repaired—The barrels and mountings I take it, were procured several years since from France, and might doubtless have been all stocked long since—Mr Cheever says he has no workmen, nor can induce any by the pay he is authorised to offer—Perhaps Your Excellency will be able to give such directions as may soon produce a considerable supply from thence.
					The one half of the 4895 old arms, I suppose taken from Genl Burgoyne’s Army, may be easily repaired, Many of them want very little done to them. I am, with great Esteem & Consideration Your Excellency’s Most Obedient humble Servant

						Jonth; Trumbull


Title: General Orders, 10 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Orange town Thursday August 10th 1780

							Parole Baltimore
							 Countersigns Boon BarkWatchword Prudence.

					[Officer] For the Day Tomorrow. Brigadier General Wayne.
					Brigade returns of the Espontoons wanting are to be transmitted to the orderly office 12 ô clock tomorrow.
					A General Court martial to assemble tomorrow morning nine ô clock at the Orderly Office when they will receive directions where to sit, to try all prisoners who shall be brought before them Colonel Greaton is appointed President—Lieutenant Colonel Mellen Major Church, and a Captain from each Brigade except the 3d & 4th Massachusetts to attend as Members.

						After Orders
						The Division General Court martial whereof Colonel Angell is President of Major General Lord stirling’s late Division is to assemble tomorrow morning ten ô clock at the President’s Tent to finish the Trial of Lt Boss.
						The General Court martial whereof Colonel Butler is President is dissolved.


Title: From George Washington to Esther De Berdt Reed, 10 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Esther De Berdt

						Madam,
						Head Qrs Orange Town Augt 10th 1780.

					I have the honor to thank you for your favor of the 31st Ulto.
					It was not my intention to divert the benevolent donation of the Ladies from the channel they wished it to flow in. I gave my opinion in consequence of thier request, but I shall be equally ready to subscribe to theirs—and will execute thier commands in the manner most agreable to themselves. At the sametime, I have my apprehensions (from the peculiar circumstances of our Army) that a taste of hard money may be productive of much discontent, as we have none but depreciated paper for their pay.
					A few provident Soldiers will, probably, avail themselves of the advantages which may result from the generous bounty of two hard dollars in spicie—but it is equally probable that it will be the means of bringing punishment on a number of others, whose propensity to drinking, overcoming all other considerations, too frequently leads them into irregularities, & disorders which must be corrected.
					A Shirt would render the condition of the soldiery in general much more comfortable than it is at present, & no prospect of public supplies (in any degree adequate to our wants) are yet opened to my view—The provision made, or making for the Troops of Pensylvania, and the late importation from France, is small in comparison of our aggregate call, and affords a melancholy prospect of continued sufferings. I have the honor to be Madam, With the most perfect respect, Yr Most Obedt Servt

						Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Philip Schuyler, 10 August 1780
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Albany August 10th 1780

					The Enemy whom Colo: V. Schaick advised Your Excellency to be in the vicinity of Fort Schulyer left that quarter on the approach of Brigadier Renselaer with the Militia, and whilst he proceeded with a supply of provision for the Garrisson they made a detour by his left and fell on the Settlements at Canajoxharie where they burnt upwards of an hundred

houses, killed ten or twelve people, and carried about Sixty into captivity. they were retarded In their progress by a body of militia who were In march to reinforce Renselaer, then retired with their many body leaving Small parties who at Intervals burnt detatched houses to draw the attention of our people. Yesterday they made their appearance at Schoharie where they had Already burnt ten or twelve houses when the Express came away, and were advancing farther Into the Settlements. In order the more to distress & distract the Country another party has penetrated from Canada Crossed hudsons river above fort Edward and Yesterday surprized a Small Scout of ours, another party attacked fort Dayton at the German flatts on the 8th but we hear they were repulsed. the distress occasioned by these various Incursions is very sensibly felt not only by the Immediate Sufferers but by the Inhabitants In General who are now in Height of Harvest. I find myself under the necessity of repairing to the northern frontier to keep up the Spirits of the Inhabitants and If possible to establish two or three Small picket forts to Cover the Country and to give notice of the Approach of an Enemy In future. this business will probably retard my return to the Army for eight or ten days more—As there is not any salted meat In this part of the Country our people can neither pursue the Enemy, or even send out Scouts to gain Intelligence of their approach. I wish, If It is possible, that an hundred Barrels of beef or pork could be ordered up.
					About one hundred of the Massachusetts levies marched Yesterday towards Schoharie fifty men are Just now arrived; I cannot learn that the remainder have yet Marched out of the Massachusetts.
					The Crops of wheat In this country were never better. the Settlement of Schoharie only Offered to furnish the public Eighty thousand bushells. If they could be assisted with troops to cover them whilst they should thrash It, twice that quantity could be furnished by Canajoxharie & the German flatts, but I apprehend the greater part will be destroyed unless the Massachu[s]etts levies or an equal number of those from this state are left In that quarter, for the Milita will not be prevaild on to remain and leave their own Crops to perish.
					Mrs & Miss Schuyler Join me in best respects. I have the honor to be with the sincerest Esteem & Affection Your Excellency’s Most Obedient humble Servant

						Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Silvanus Seely, 10 August 1780
From: Seely, Silvanus
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Morris Town [N.J.,] Augst 10th 1780

					Yours of the 6th I have receiv’d, and Majr Groenendyck has returned to this post agreeable to Orders.
					Inclosed is a return of the men at this post, which is greatly short of the number intended; I have done every thing in my power to Expedite their Collecting, but they come in slow which makes me think I shall have but little, if any, more than half the number Ordered.
					I cannot help mentioning that we have very little Ammunition, should be glad to know where to Apply in Case we should be Ordered to any post where we may likely want. I am Sir Your Excellencys Most Obedt Servant

						Silvs Seely Coll


Title: To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 10 August 1780
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						North Castle [N.Y.,] Augt [10] 1780

					I have this moment recd Dispatches from the C——s which I have the Honor to enclose to Your Excellency—The Person who crossed to L.I. did not go so soon as he was ordered, which has occasioned some delay.
					By the Enclosed from C—— Junr your Excellency will percieve he has consented to give intelligence, but does not say how long—Since I last saw your Excellency I have been endeavouring to open a Communication with N.Y. by crossing over to Cowneck, to the Westward of Oysterbay. If this can be effected, Dispatches may be bro’t from N.Y. to the White Plains in twelve hours, on Emergencies, as the whole land

Course on L.I. would not exceed 22 miles, & the sound not more than ten miles over. I am the more induced to this Step as C—— Junr has a near Relation living nigh C— Neck, whom if I can also engage, I am sure of C—— Junr’s Services—A Change of Men thro’ whom letters may pass, will give him fresh Assurance. In a few days I shall have a Boat cross to the above mentioned Place, on the business of establishing a Correspondence, the Event of which shall be duly made known to Your Excellency.
					By C. Senior’s letter Your Excellency will percieve that Detachments of the Enemie’s Horse are scattered thro’ Suffolk County. I have other Accounts—which represent them in many Places much off their Guard, living on the honest Whig Inhabitants—If a small Body of Troops could be spared, I doubt not some advantage might be taken of their Situation. If Your Excellency would permit me to take about 50 or 60 Dismounted Dragoons into the neighbourhood of Stamford or Norwalk, I would endeavour to take Advantage of the Enemies Situation, & what would be a much more important Object, I should have a good Opportunity of opening a Correspondence on the Other Side without being suspected by friends or foes.
					The intelligence from C. Junr of the Enem⟨y⟩ reimbarking, has been also mentioned to me from Capt. Hunter. I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

						Benja. Tallmadge


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier Generals Anthony Wayne and William Irvine, 10 August 1780
From: Wayne, Anthony,Irvine, William
To: Washington, George

						sir
						Camp at Tapan [N.Y.] 10th Augt 1780

					It was not until some time after your Excellency was made acquainted with the very great dissatisfaction which the Majors of the Pennsa line experienced, on the appointment of Major McPherson to a Command in the Corps of Light troops drawn from that State, that we were

Informed of the address they presented to you. the moment we discovered the effect that appointment had upon them—every means in our power was used to endeavour to Conciliate matters, and we had a flattering prospect, from the nice feelings of Major McPherson that an opening would be made—by a voluntary resignation for one of those Gentlemen to supply his place in the Light Corps—without hurting the feelings of your Excellency—or entering into an Investigation of the propriety or right of Brevets taking a Permenant command in a full corps drawn from one State during a Campaign, upon this Ground we prevailed on the Majors, to hold their Commissions for a few days—until the Army was in a more fixed state & to give time for cool reason to govern—hoping something might take place in the Interim that would restore harmony & Content.
					but the Solemn manner in which we were called upon yesterday morning by the Colonels & Lieut. Colonels on this Occation convinced us the Dissolution of the Line would but too probably soon take place—unless the cause could be removed, & being requested by them to make a true representation to your Excellency of their feelings & Determination, we were Induced to wait on you at 12. OClock yesterday & to communicate Viva Voce—what we had in charge from them.
					we have since at your Excellencys request called upon those Officers to Commit their Objections to Writing—this they decline—saying that the Majors have already stated them in their address to you & that they are Informed by the same feelings, & will abide the same fate of their Majors.
					We shall not attempt to advocate the matter, or to give our Opinion on the Usuage or Custom of Brevet appointments, and altho’ an Office exceeding distressing to us—yet it is a duty which we owe to your Excellency—to our Country, & to ourselves to declare that (unless some happy circumstance Immediately Intervenes) we do not believe it to be in our power to prevent the Resignation of a Corps of Officers—who have upon every Occation produced a Conviction, that they are Second to none, in Esteem & Attatchment to your Excellency—fidelity to the States, or prowess in the field. Interim we have the honor to be with every Sentiment of Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obt & very Hume Serts

						Anty WayneWm Irvine


Title: General Orders, 11 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Orange town Friday August 11th 1780

							Parole Sparta
							 Countersigns S BWatchword Subordinate.

					[Officer] For the Day Tomorrow[:] Brigadier General Huntington
					One of the Drafts acquainted with the management of Hides and Tallow from each Wing to be sent to the Commissary of Hides at the Magazine—These men are to join their regiments when they are ordered to march.
					The Brigade Commissaries are to send their hides and Tallow to the Commissary of Hides every Saturday.
					An Orderly Serjeant from each brigade in the right wing to attend the General Court Martial whereof Colonel Greaton is President this day now sitting at the Church—An Orderly Serjeant from each brigade in the Left wing to attend tomorrow at the same place.
					A Serjeant from each wing to attend at the orderly Office daily—The General court martial whereof Colonel Angell is President mentioned in General Orders yesterday is to assemble tomorrow 10 ô clock at the President’s Tent.
					A Draft from each Brigade to be sent as a Collier to Colonel Baldwin’s Quarters early tommorow morning to remain while the Army continues on this ground—Those Colliers who have heretofore been employed under him are to join their regiments.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Benedict Arnold, 11 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters Orange Town 11th Augt 1780.

					I yesterday recd your favor of the 8th: The Commy General of Issues must be supposed to have the best knowledge of the Affairs of his department, and therefore any directions given by him to draw from one post to supply Troops at another ought to be complied with. In the present instance our dependence is upon part of the stock of Rum at West point, and you will for that reason permit the remainder of the quantity ordered to come forward.
					I have received intelligence that the British Troops which lately returned from the Eastward and debarked upon Long Island have orders to embark again. I cannot suppose that they mean again to go towards Rhode Island, neither can I think that in the present situation of

matters they can expect any success from an attempt upon West point, but in order that we may run no risque; I shall write to Colo. Malcom directing him to halt in the neighbourhood of Haverstraw till further orders. He will from thence be in supporting distance of the posts should a serious move up the River take place. You will also detain all the Militia of Massachusetts and New Hampshire who may come in, untill we receive more certain intelligence of the views and intentions of the Enemy. You will put all your posts upon their guard. They can be affected by nothing but a surprize while this Army lays so near them.
					We shall have occasion to throw up some small Works at Dobbs’s ferry to secure the intended communication at that place, and in order that we may finish them in the most expeditious manner, you will be pleased to order sixty of Colo. Baldwins regimented Artificers to come immediately down here.
					Colo. Hay writes that he shall be able to lay up some stock of Hay at Fishkill provided orders are given that none shall be issued while pasture is to be had, except upon such occasions as you or the Deputy Qr Master Genl at the post shall think proper. This measure appears necessary, and you will therefore be pleased to give orders to have it carried into execution.
					A new Qr Mr General (Colo. pickering) is appointed. Whether he will be supplied with the means of procuring what is necessary in the department, or whether the new System is calculated to produce them, is yet to be known. In the mean time you can only proceed in working up the materials which you find upon hand. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt and humble Servt

						Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Haring, 11 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Haring, John

						Sir
						Head Quarters Orange Town 11th Augt 1780

					I am pained at the contents of your letter of this date. It has always been my endeavour as much as in my power to prevent the troops from committing depradations of any kind whatso[e]ver on the inhabitants. That there should be cause of complaint from the well-affected is an additional aggravation. You may be assured, that the most pointed orders have been issued to the army on this subject since we came on this ground, and the strongest recommendations used to the officers that they may be carried into execution. I flatter myself that these will have the good effect, which you desire, and which it is intended they should produce. I am Sir &c.

						G.W.


Title: From George Washington to La Luzerne, 11 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

						Sir
						Head Qrs Orange Town August 11th 1780

					I have the Honor to transmit Your Excellency a Letter from the Chevalier Ternay, which came under cover to me last night, with One addressed to myself. I also enclose an Extract of the Letter from the Admiral to myself and of one of the same date, from the Count de Rochambeau. Your Excellency will perceive by these, tho I presume the Admiral has written to You fully on the subject, the measures they have concerted with respect to the second Division, in case it arrives at the Southward.
					The Letter inclosed from L. Colo. Harrison will inform Your Excellency by what accident the One addressed to You by the Admiral was opened. I have the honor to be with the highest respect & esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & Most Hble servant

						Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 11 August 1780
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

						My dear General
						Boston 11th Augt 1780

					I was yesterday honored with your Excellencys favor of the 26th ulto covering a letter from Sir Henry Clinton to me I cannot but hope you have a little misapprehended him and that it was not his intention to make my exchange depend absolutely on the exchange of the southern Army—did I fully believe this to be his meaning I should suppose no advantages would result from my meeting Major General Phillips while there are any reasons existing in your Excellencys mind which would make it improper, at this time, to go into a general Exchange—but as I flatter my self he meant only to involve in my exchange that of General Phillips and General Riedesel I think my meeting General Phillips will accelerate my exchang—I therefore will do my self the pleasure of waiting on your Excellency On the 10th of September and hope then to have the honor of your instructions on the business I may have to transact.
					I propose to meet General Phillips at Elizabeth town on the 12 of next month—If your Excellencys permission is necessary for him to meet at that place I wish it might be sent to him—I have inclosed my letter to General Clinton, under a flying seal, which if agreeable to your Excellency I wish to have forwarded. I have the honor to be My dear General with the highest respect your Excellencys most Obedient & most humble servant

						B: Lincoln.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 11 August 1780
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

					Hingham, Mass, 11 August 1780. “Could a consciousness of having the fullest intentions to serve my country and a sincere attempt to have executed such intentions have so availed me as to have discharged the debt of responsibility to the public for my conduct while their servant, and especially to you my dear General, as my commanding officer, I should

have saved you the trouble of this long epistle—but as it cannot—do with the greatest chearfulness give your Excellency the following short state of matters relative to Charlestown which will in some measure point you to the causes of the loss of that place and to the line of conduct pursued by me, as senior officer, before and at the time of its surrender.” Lincoln argues that Congress made it clear that it desired him to defend Charleston. The considerable reinforcements expected, the valuable military stores accumulated in the city, and the expectation that the Continental navy could defend the port and that the lines of communication and supply could be held open made defense the only honorable option. Only when the defense of the city was no longer tenable did he surrender the garrison. Lincoln closes the letter: “Think it not My Dear General the language of adulation when I assure you, that your approbation of my military conduct will afford me the highest satisfaction, and prove my justification in the eyes of the world.”


Title: From George Washington to Colonel William Malcom, 11 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Malcom, William

						Sir
						Head Quarters Orange Town 11th Augt 1780

					From some advices recd from New York—I think it necessary that the Militia under your command should Halt in a convenient position in the neighbourhood of Haverstraw untill further orders. Should the Enemy go up the River in such force as may seem sufficient to threaten the Highland posts and pass above Kings Ferry, you will without loss of time throw yourself by the nearest Route into West point. You will in such case send your Baggage thro’ the Clove to New Windsor. Should this meet you on this side Haverstraw, you will return, and give me notice where you take post. I am &.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Timothy Pickering, 11 August 1780
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

						Sir,
						Philadelphia Augt 11. 1780.

					You will doubtless ere this reaches you, have been informed that Congress have been pleased to appoint me quarter master general. This was so totally unexpected, that it will take me some days yet before I can get ready to proceed to camp. In the mean time I shall make some necessary arrange⟨m⟩ents for conducting the business of the de⟨pa⟩rtment in this state and the other states s⟨ou⟩thward of it. The gentlemen concerned in the department with the army, will I hope chearfully continue to exercise the duties of their respective offices until my arrival in camp, which shall be as speedily as possible. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect your Excellency’s most obedient servant

						Tim: Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier Generals Anthony Wayne and William Irvine, 11 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony,Irvine, William

						Gentlemen
						Head Qrs Tappan [N.Y.] Augt 11th 1780

					I cannot but premise my answer to your letter of yesterday, by observing that the refusal of the Colonels & Lt Colonels of your line to comply with my request for stating in writing their motives to the part they have taken in the affair of Majr McPherson, is to me as extraordinary as unexpected—I assure you I had not the least idea there could have been any difficulty in the matter and had no other reason for desiring it than that which I assigned to you—To prevent a possibility of misrepresentation.
					Though I consider the conduct of the Gentlemen concerned as extremely exceptionable in every point of view—yet as I attribute it to misapprehension—as I have a good opinion of their intentions, and the highest sense of their patriotism—their zeal for the service—their talents and merit—as I should esteem their resignation an injury to the Army not only by the loss of so many good Officers, but by deranging a very valuable Corps of Troops—as I wish the motive to the step I have taken to be well understood by them—I shall recapitulate the substance of the conversation which passed between us at our interview, and request you once more to call the attention to it before they come to a final determination.

					I wish them to be assured that in the appointment of Majr McPherson, I did not imagine it could, by any construction, be deemed injurious to their rights or prejudicial to their honor; and that they cannot be more tender of both themselves than I have been, & ever should be—That though I have the best opinion of that Gentleman’s qualifications, the choice of him was not founded on any preference derogatory to them. that from the fullest information of the practice of all other Armies I was convinced the appointment was agreeable to Military rule—that it appeared to me by the Articles of War, & repeated resolutions of Congress to be agreeable to our own constitution—that the estimation in which Mr McPherson seemed to be held by the whole Pensylvania line—the former application of some of the Officers to me in his behalf—the sacrafice he made to his principles by quitting a Service in which he had a handsome existence—His being a native of the same State, & a man of acknowledged capacity & worth, left me no doubt, that the Officers of your line would, with pleasure, see him placed in a situation which would enable him to be useful to the public, & to do credit to himself.
					A Command in the light corps offered itself as an unexceptionable mode for answering this purpose. Corps formed by detachments are the usual method in which brevet Officers are employed—as they cannot be introduced into Regiments without displacing other Officers or violating the right of succession; both of which are justly deemed injuries in every Service. But the reasoning is new by which the employing such Officers in detached Corps is made an infringement of the rights of regimental Officers. Military rank and an eligibility to Military command, are ideas which cannot be seperated—Take away the latter and the former becomes an unmeaning sound. the principle being admitted would in our army degrade many Officers who have every claim to the consideration of their Country, & to the justice of their fellow Soldiers—some of whom have been in the Army since the commencement of the War—have relinquished regimental Stations, by which in the natural course of succession they would have been higher in rank than they now are—have made as great sacrafices as any others—and yield to none in merit or in useful Service. To wish to exclude them from the most essential priviledge of an Officer is alike inconsistent with justice and generosity; and on cooler reflection the liberality of sentiment which I believe the Gentlemn concerned to possess—will not suffer them to persist in such a design.
					The practice of other Armies in all cases not expressly provided for is the best standard by which we can form our notions, and it would have obviated many difficulties if it had been better known, or more attended to. If particular Officers are to depart from that and set up

new distinctions as it suits their interest, or fancy, there is an end to all order and subordination. Everything is set afloat upon the precarious footing, of as many different opinions as there are individuals that compose the Army.
					It is too notorious to be denied that the practice of other Armies (not less than our own) warrants the appointment of Major McPherson to his present command. I understand however from you Gentlemen, that a line has been drawn, & applied to the pres[en]t case between temporary & permanent commands—Admitting this distinction to be good—detachments which are again to return to their Corps, can be deemed nothing else than temporary commands—whether they are out for a Week, for a Month, or for a Campaign they are still temporary—The permanent commands are of regiments and other established Corps—If we appeal to precedent, here also we shall find the period for brevet commands indefinite.
					You inform me that a distinction was also made between a detachment from one line and a detachment from different lines—& that no objection would have arisen if the Corps to which Majr McPherson was appointed had been composed partly of Pensylvania & partly of other Troops. Though there are particular quotas of Troops furnished by the several States—the whole compose one Army, and the Commissions are from the same authority with different designations. All detachments therefore whether from one line or from more than one must be subject to the same rules; and if a brevet is not to operate upon a detachment from one line, I see no principle upon which it can have effect in detachments from differt lines united together.
					If it be allowed that brevet commissions create a capability of temporary command by detachement, & that the light infantry answers to this description, then the propriety of appointing Majr McPherson can only be questioned on two principles—a want of qualifications, or being appointed out of course. The first would be inadmissible because the Officer commanding the Army has alone the right to judge—and if he made an injudicious choice the Officers might entertain what private opinions they pleased, but they could not make it the subject of official complaint. If it be said Majr McPherson was appointed out of course—& that the Officers of light Infantry should be taken by roster as in the common routine of Service—let the practice of Armies as in the other case be recurred to—& it will be found that no regard is paid to the roster in Similar Corps. It is an indisputed priviledge of the Commander in chief to Officer them as he pleases. The same was done last year, nor would scarcely an Officer then in the Corps have been appointed if the principle in question had been observed—No objection however that I ever heard of, was made on the

score—and why should the Officers of the Pensylvania line be singular in making it now? Or why not make it in the case of Colo. Stewart as well as of Majr McPherson? His appointment no more than that of the latter can be justified by the Roster. The good sense of every Officer of discernment must decide against this rule for a variety of obvious considerations.
					For these reasons, and others equally decisive, it is impossible for me to revoke the appointment. I view the measure the Gentlemen concerned have entered into as peculiarly intemperate—hasty—and ill-judged—I sincerely hope they may be induced to re-consider it, & change their resolution. On my part I shall be happy to forget what has happened, & to continue to them the same share of my esteem which they have merited & possessed. I am perswaded their rights in the present case are untouched—I am conscious I had no intention to injure them. I cannot pretend an indifference to the conduct they may observe because as I have already confessed, I shall consider their quitting the Service as a serious detriment to it—They ought also as good Citizens & good men to realize the consequences, & to assure themselves they act upon substantial grounds before they venture to execute what they have intimated—They ought to recollect that they cannot hereafter be happy, if they find their conduct condemned by the Country & by the Army, especially if it has been the cause of any misfortune. They should remember that we have actually entered upon the operations of the Campaign—that we are now in the vicinity of the enemy & in a position that makes an action not very improbable—perhaps (if my intelligence is true) not very remote.
					When they duly weigh these things they cannot but be sensible that the love of their Country—the obligations of their respective Stations—What they owe to their own characters & to that discipline which ought to be sacred among Military men—all these motives call upon them to relinquish the intention they have suggested. It is true we have not many considerations of interest to attach us to the Service; but we have those of honor & public good in a high degree, & I flatter myself these ties will not prove too feeble.
					I wish you to communicate this Letter as well to the Majors as to the other field Officers—and if they still persist, I shall think I have discharged my duty to them and to the public. I am with great esteem Gentn Yr Most Obedt Ser.

						Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 12 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

						Head Quarters Orange town saturday August 12. 1780

							Parole Halifax
							 Countersigns Keen KeepWatchword Allways ready

					[Officer] For the Day Tommorrow[:] Brigadier General Stark.
					Two Captains four subs. eight serjeants and one hundred and fifty men from each Wing are to be sent at five ô clock tomorrow morning to Dobbs ferry as a fatigue party under the direction of Colonel Gouvion Commandant of the Corps of Engineers—They are to take their Arms and two days provisions with them.
					The Issuing Commissaries are to deliver Fatigue Rum on Colonel Gouvion’s orders.
					A Drum and fife from the right wing to join the Corps of Sappers and Miners ’till further orders.

					The recruits or Drafts who have joined the Army this Campaign are to be divided into two classes the first to consist of those who have been formerly in the continental regiments and those who are in the opinion of their commanding officers sufficiently drilled to mount on the Camp and quarter Guards under the eyes of their officers; These may be permitted to form part of the manœuvring battalions—The remainder to compose the second class who are not to do any duty except to exercise ’till further orders.

						After Orders
						Lieutenant Thomas Doyle of the 6th Pennsylvania regiment is appointed Quartermaster to the same from the 13 of July 1778.
						The 1st Pennsylvania Jersey 1st 2d and 4th Massachusetts brigades give each a chain bearer to the Geographer of the Main Army Mr Erskine, they are to be sent to the Orderly Office tomorrow morning eight ô clock.
						The right Wing will give six Masons and a fatigue party of a Serjeant and twelve men to be paraded at the Church tomorrow morning eight ô clock with one days provisions.
						It being of the utmost importance that orders should be regularly and speedily communicated the Commander in Chief directs ’till further orders, that the Inspectors, Brigade Inspectors and Aides attend the Orderly Office daily at 11 ô clock in the morning to receive general orders and communicate the Wing Division or Brigade Orders—And in case any Wing Division or Brigade Orders are to be communicated at any other hour they are to be sent to the Inspectors and Brigade Inspectors who are immediately to Communicate them to the Wings Divisions or Brigades—The most punctual attendance for General Orders is required and Expected.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benedict Arnold, 12 August 1780
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

						Dear Sir
						Head Quarters Robinsons-House 12th Augt 1780

					I am this Instant favored with your Excellencys Letter of Yesterday, On the 10th I received Advice from Col. Sheldon that the Enemy were embarking Troops & heavy Artillery, at White Stone and New York, which I thought would justify me in detaining the New York Militia, untill I received an Answer to my Letter of the 8th especially as very few of the Massachussetts & New Hampshire Militia have come in since that Time, & I am informed that two thousand of them have been ordered to Rhode Island, and the Officers present are of Opinion that very few more will join this Garrison, unless those are ordered here, which are said to be gone to Rhode Island.
					By inclosed Returns your Excellency will see that the Massachussetts & New Hampshire Militia Amount to only 1918 Rank and File 485 of which are on Command, which leaves 1433 in Garrison, and Col. Hay has requested two hundred Men to cut Wood & make Brick for the Use of the Garrison Next Winter, He informs me that the Wood must be transported a considerable Distance by Water, that the Vessells employed are so badly found with cables; Anchors and Sails that they cannot ply after the Middle of October, I find on Enquiry, that the Wood is destroy’d in the Vicinity of the Garrison, and unless a Stock is laid in this fall they will be put to the greatest difficulty for Fuel next Winter—Col. Hay is of Opinion that with 200 Men he can furnish a sufficient Quantity for the Garrison next Winter—I wish your Excellencys Directions in the Matter.
					The New York Levys under Col. Malcomb will march from this Post tomorrow for Haverstraw.
					I have ordered the remainder of the Rum requested by Col. Stewart to be forwarded on imediately; 60 of Col. Baldwins Artificers will be draughted and sent imediately to the main Army, The Order which your Excellency mentions respecting Forrage shall be strictly attended to.
					I think it requires very little Divination to foresee, that a Change in the Qr Masters Department in the Middle of a Campaign, will throw the whole into Confusion & be attended with more fatal Consequences, than any Abuses which are said to exist in the Department. If Materials are not furnished to compleat the Redouts and Works on the Point this fall, they will in a great Measure be defenceless this Winter, in a ruinous Condition by Spring, and a great Part of the Works which is done will be totally lost & to be done over again. With such Men and Materials as I have, I will do all that can be done.
					Inclosed is a Letter from Genl Parsons to Genl Howe, respecting a Flag, which he requests for Capt. Benedict to go to N. York, I beg your

Excellencys Instructions in this Matter, and on Flags in general. I have the Honor to be most respectfully, Your Excellencys most obt, and very humble Servt

						B. Arnold


Title: From George Washington to Ephraim Blaine, 12 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Blaine, Ephraim

						Sir
						Head Quarters Orange Town 12th Augt 1780.

					In answer to that part of your letter of the 19th July, in which you desire to be informed of the most proper places to establish Magazines of Salt provision, I am of opinion that you should make Albany upon the North River—Easton upon the Delaware—and Pitts Town or that neighbourhood the principal places of deposit. You need not confine yourself to Albany alone, as any convenient places upon the North River above the Highlands are equally safe. I do not imagine that there will be any salt meat to spare to the southward but should there be more than is wanted for the supply of the southern Army, you should have it brought to the Head of Chesapeak Bay before the Winter sets in and from thence across to Philada in the first instance—The salt Meat put up to the Eastward should also be brought forward to the North River before the Weather renders the Roads impassable. should the States comply with the requisitions of Flour made upon them, the places already assigned for the reception of that Article are suitable for the probable winter Cantonments of the Army. I am &.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 12 August 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

						Sir
						Camp Tappon [N.Y.] Augt 12th 1780

					We have fifty eight private property teams now in public service with the army. What shall be done with them? The new regulation says that none shall be kept in public service that are the property either of military or staff officers. These are all under this predicament. The owners apply to have their teams discharged or some special assurances given that they shall be paid for their future service.
					The Army now requires at least eighty waggons to put it in a condition to move; exclusive of a great number that is wanted for the Commissary’s and forage department. If these are discharged, it will add so much to the distress of the service. The owners of the teams that belong to the Staff, will quit with their waggons, and the army will have to furnish fifty eight waggoners, as all the private property teams are drove by private waggoners—the People are anxious to get their teams out of service; but I dont care under present circumstances to let them go without your Excellency’s direction therein, es⟨peci⟩ally as we are now impressing from the country ⟨to⟩ keep up the necessary transportation. I beg yo⟨ur⟩ Excellency’s immediate answer upon the subject, as the people are waiting. I am with great respect your Excellency’s most obdt hume Servt

						Nath. Greene M. General


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 12 August 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

						Dear General
						Newport Augst 12th 1780

					I am Just honored with yours of the 8th Instant; I am happy to find that the late conduct of the militia has been Such as to merit your approbation.
					As your Excellency is pleased more fully to express in your last Letter, that it is intirely with myself immediately to Join the army or not, I am at once decided; for howsoever pleasing it is to me to Converse with aid and assist, the generous Auxilliaries who have come to our Support; my wish and ambition is to Serve with your Excellency; I Shall therefore prepare to go forward in a few days; Shall to morrow break the matter to General Count de Rochambeau; I expect he will Object to it, but I think I can offer Such reasons as will convince him, that he cannot reasonably wish to detain me longer from my Command in the army. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servant

						W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 12 August 1780
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

						Dear Genl
						North Castle [N.Y.] Augt 12th 1780

					By the particular Assistance of Lieut. Rogers of the 2d L.D. I have procured the enclosed original Letter to Major Delancy, & the Copy of another Letter to a Person whose name I am under solemn Obligations, for the present, to conceal. In some future day when I may have the pleasure of seeing your Excellency, I shall unfold the matter more fully. Suffice it for the present to say that I suspect I know the Author of sd Letters; & that Your Excellency may be assisted in the Recollection possibly some of your Family may remember that some time about the Date of the enclosed Letters, a Mister Pool was at or about Hd Qrs with a Servant, a Sulkey & two or three fine Horses—One of your Aids endeavoured to buy a horse of him. I am told, he passed thro’ Fairfield on the 7th inst. from Wilton, & said he was a Volunteer Aid in your Excellency’s Family. He is An Inhabitant of N. London, & the Circumstance of his mentioning Genl Saltonstalls Family corroborates my first Opinion—He was formerly a Lieut. in our Regt & I think I know his hand writing—As he is now gone to NewPort I wish to know whether I had not better immediately send to the Officer of our Regt at New London, to secure him, or so to watch him that he cannot escape. I shall wait impatiently

for Your Excellency’s Instructions, & am in the Interim, with Esteem & Regard, Your Excellency’s most Obedt Servt

						Benja. Tallmadge

						P.S. If your Excellency thinks best I will Send Lt Rogers on the business who knows the Man, & the Circumstances which I have related.