Title: From George Washington to Abraham Skinner, 8 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Skinner, Abraham

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Dobbs’s Ferry 8th Augt 1781

                        I have recd your favor of the 6th inclosing Copies of the late letters which have passed between you and Mr
                            Loring and his proposition for the Exchange of Lieut. Genl Burgoyne and all the remaining Officers of Convention, provided
                            we will allow the Cedars prisoners to be brought into the Account.
                        I cannot give my assent to this before I have consulted Congress upon the matter, for the following
                            Reasons—They have, I believe, already directed our Minister at the Court of Versailles to make an offer of exchanging Lt
                            Genl Burgoyne for the Honble Mr Henry Laurens—I do not know whether they would choose to release the whole of the
                            Convention Officers previous to the settlement of the account for the subsistence of those troops, as their detention is
                            looked upon as a security in some degree—And as to the affair of the prisoners of the Cedars, you know upon what footing
                            that stands—However, that I may give all possible dispatch to the Business in one way or the other, I have written to
                            Congress on these several matters. You have the letter inclosed and you will be the Bearer of it yourself.
                        Should the exchange of Convention Officers become so general as to include part of the southern Officers, due
                            attention must be paid to exchanging them according to the course of their capture. I mention this, particularly, because
                            I observe in the list proposed by Mr Loring, that Lieutenant Colonels Neville, Ball—du Buysson—and Ternant are included. If
                            they are entitled to the preference—there can be no objection, but if they are not, you must substitute those who have the
                            right.
                        That the enemy may have no reason to complain that we throw obstacles in the way of the release of our
                            privates, you have liberty to order those Men of Delanceys to some convenient place, and inform Mr Loring that they will
                            be ready to be delivered at the Barrier whenever our prisoners are brought to the place which shall be agreed upon—You are
                            to insist upon the release of Inhabitants taken out of Arms without any compensation. You may inform Mr Loring that I
                            would not wish to be obliged to seize private persons to obtain the relief of those who are now in New York. I have it at
                            this time in my power to secure every Loyalist in the Western part of Connecticut, in the County of West Chester and in
                            great part of Bergen, but I have not encouraged a practice which I have reprobated in the enemy, and which nothing shall
                            induce me to put in execution, but seeing no other mode of procuring the release of our Citizens.


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 8 August 1781
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Hartford 8th August 1781.

                        Your Excellency’s letter of the third instant is received—We have exerted ourselves to obtain money for the
                            Connecticut line of the Army, and have had success so far as to put up thirty five hundred pounds lawfull money in silver
                            and Gold, ready to be conveyd to the Army for pay and Wages of our line; it will be at Danbury by the fifteenth
                            instant—wish for directions relative to bringing it forward, and the safety thereof.
                        I have give renewed Orders for raising detaching and marching the Men for the Continental Army—The two State
                            Regiments at Horseneck, and for three months service, to march to West point; hoping the same will have good effect.
                        Expect to-morrow morning to set out on my Journey to Danbury—Shall thereto receive your Letters and
                            directions. I am, with every Sentiment of Esteem and Regard Your Excellency’s Obedient & very hble Servant

                            Jonth. Trumbull


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Carleton, 9 August 1781
From: Carleton, Joseph
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            War Office August 9th 1781

                        The bearer Mr John Loveday, having been recommended to the Board, as a person well qualified to fill the
                            Office of Steward to your Excellency, they have appointed him thereto, and have every reason to hope from the Character he
                            sustains, that his diligence and attention in the exercise of that Office, will on all occasions meet with your
                            Excellency’s approbation. I have the Honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Hble Servant By
                            order of the Board

                            Jos: Carleton
                            Secy


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Hamilton, 9 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

                            Dr Sir
                            Head Quarters Augst 9th 1781

                        I have recd your Letter of the 7th. Shoes will be issued to the State Companies under your Command, upon your
                            Return—I will only recommend, that proper precautions should be taken respecting the delivery, & that the men of
                            the State Companies should be made accountable for them: the same mode will be pursued in supplying the other Companies,
                            as has been formerly practiced. I am Dr Sr Your Most Obedt Servt.

                            P.S. Capt. Sacket & Capt. Williams Should become responsible to the Clothier that the shoes are
                                properly accounted for—The Shoes may be drawn & issued thro the Channell of the same Person, who is employed
                                by Colo. Scammell for the same purpose.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 9 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters Dobbs’s Ferry 9th Augt 1781.

                        Inclosed is the Copy of a letter which I have just recd from Capt. Mitchell commanding the post at Wyoming,
                            representing his distress for provision. As this post was to have been supplied by Pennsylvania, and as you have now
                            undertaken to furnish the supplies required of the state, I must request you to take the speediest means of giving relief
                            to the Garrison—The quantity of provision which I judged necessary was mentioned in the estimate which I transmitted to
                            the Board of War, and which you no doubt have seen. I have the honor to be &c.

                            P.S. I have written to Capt. Mitchell to subsist his men by collections from the Inhabitants untill a
                                regular supply can be sent to him.


Title: To George Washington from William Smallwood, 9 August 1781
From: Smallwood, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir,
                            Annapolis August 9th 1781.

                        Since I have been in this State I have been peculiarly embarrassed—not only in raising Men—but in equipping
                            them—The acts of the State and her Finances have been utterly incompetent towards compleating her Quota, which I am well
                            assured might have been effected, could Money have been advanced—and the Public Acts calculated to promote the recruiting
                            Service—Impressed with a just sense of the reduced situation of the Southern Army, I have been more solicitous to effect
                            this Business—and have used every Effort in my power to forward Reinforcements—but from those Causes my wishes and
                            endeavors have ’till now proved ineffectual.
                        The first and second Regiments composed of the old Troops are to the Southward—and I have at length raised
                            the third, consisting of upwards of five Hundred Men enlisted for the War and three Years, exclusive of those for Nine
                            Months—this Regiment has been long detained for want of the necessary Equipments—and the Draughts coming in—they were on
                            the point of Marching when stopped by the Order and Intelligence of the Marquis upon the expected Invasion—but will now
                            immediately March to join General Greene.
                        The two Troops of Horse and two Regiments of Nine Months Men required by Congress from this State—come in
                            very slow—the Horses are ready but Equipment and Men are wanting to mount them—and not more than one Hundred and thirty of
                            the Recruits and Draughts for those Regiments have rendezvoused at this Station—the others are shortly expected—but I fear
                            will not be compleated and equipped in time to render any essential Service—out of those I am enlisting with tollerable
                            Success the Fourth Regiment for the War and three Years. altho the latter Term is repugnant to policy and the Views of
                            Congress, I have been obliged to admit it—owing in a great Measure to Indulgencies granted under the Act, by which
                            Draughts are authorized to obtain Substitutes for the War or three Years.
                        We have been threatned with an Invasion, Letters from the Marquis La Fayette and other Persons in Virginia
                            announced it as amounting almost to a certainty—but I have and do still view the Appearances held out as a deep Finesse
                            calculated to divert our Attention from General Greene, and to draw the Marquis up the Country; for it is not probable
                            that after reinforcing their Armies in the Southern and Northern Departments as Exigencies require, the Enemy can spare a
                            Body of Men sufficient to make any Impression or to promise any serious Advantages in this Quarter.
                        Captain Hughes a Young Gentleman of Baltimore County in one of the Maryland Companies of Colo. Hazen’s
                            Regiment, complains of the Colonels treatment—urges that he is in such disagreeable Circumstances that he must absolutely
                            resign rather than act under his Command, & has earnestly pressed me to solicit your Excellency to suffer him to
                            act as a Volunteer aid in my Family—for some time I waved his Importunities—urging very justly, that I had already above
                            the number of Aids limitted to my Rank, but finding him resolutely bent on giving up his Commission—and that he will quit
                            the Army with great Reluctance—I shall submit to your Excellency the propriety of granting him this Indulgence—If it can
                            be done consistently perhaps it may be well to gratify him, as he is a Young Gentleman of Family and Merit. I am with the
                            highest Esteem and Regard Your Most Obedient Hble Servt

                            W. Smallwood

                            I have repeatedly ordered the Recruits and Levies from the Delaware State to March but to no Purpose they
                                amount to 100 and the Officers complain of the same Embarrassments we meet with here.
                            Since writing you the following Intelligence has just come to hand and immediately
                                after a Letter from the Marquis of which the inclosed is a Copy.
                            A Letter from Richmond dated the 3d of Augt says the enemy are landing at York and Gloster Towns. Martin
                                Trout of Baltimore Town who can be relied on is just come home says he made his Escape from Portsmouth last Sunday in
                                a Canoe that on Sunday Night he saw the British Fleet laying at the Mouth of York he supposes not less than 3000 Men
                                have passed Portsmouth.

                     Enclosure

                                Dr Sir
                                New Castle 6th Augt 1781

                            Since my Letter to you through Mr McHenry inclosing Commodore Barrons report the Fleet spoken of entered
                                York River and landed their Troops. These are fortifying on the Glocester side and have made a place of Arms of York.
                                Lord Cornwallis is present with his whole Army, the Garrison of Portsmouth excepted.
                            It appears that a part of this Fleet was originally intended for New York, but a dispatch arriving from
                                General Clinton produced the present Arrangement.
                            Maryland being relieved it will be of the utmost Importance to its safety to reinforce this Army with all
                                the Levies which may or can be collected. If we do not Show a respectable Force here, its security hangs by a very
                                slender Thread—Let me therefore entreat your Attention to this Object—It is General Greens wish that they would join
                                me in the first Instance as well as His Excellency General Washington. I am Dear Sir Your Obedt Hble Servt

                                La Fayette


Title: To George Washington from John Stark, 9 August 1781
From: Stark, John
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Albany 9th August 1781

                        In complyance to your orders I arrived at Bennington on friday last—and on saturday made a Visit to their
                            Governour; who, together with the Leading men in that Country, have promised me every assistance in their power to repell
                            the common Enemy. And I have no reason to believe from their Conduct, that their promises are falicious: for the day
                            before I came to Bennington, Major McKinstrey (who has the Command of the Troops at Saratoga,) sent an express, to apprise
                            them of the Enemy’s advancing to his post. The alarm was spread, and in a few hours 530 Men on horseback Marched to his
                            assistance. The alarm proved false, and the next day they returned; but not ’till they had visited Saratoga. On Monday
                            last at Sunrise a Party of eleven was discovered in the southeast part of Bennington; supposed to be a party of tories
                            from Hourock, passing to Canada. The People were instantly in Arms, and pursued them untill about one
                            oClock, at which time three of the Pursuers came up with them, made them prisoners, and they were marched to Bennington
                            the same evening. (A convincing proof of the Marshall prowes, and decided superiority of those brave
                            men). Upon Examination I find them to be a party from Canada, which at first consisted of six; they made Prisoners of
                            Esqr. Blicker and two servants, and were joined by two tories, so that the whole made up Eleven: Enclosed is a copy of
                            their instructions. For my own part, I think they ought to be considered as spies, beg your Excellency’s opinion on the
                            subject.
                        Perhaps you will be surprised when I inform you, that the Militia from Berkshire, and Hampshire Counties has
                            not yet arrived at Saratoga—upon being informed of it at Bennington, I wrote General Fellows pr Express, begging that they
                            might be hastened without loss of time—I Likewise wrote Majr McKinstrey to send me a return of the men at Saratoga, and
                            find it to consist of but Ninety including Officers; for which reason I tho’t it most prudent for me to come to Albany,
                            and tarry untill a larger number can be collected. But be assured that when a number arrived that will render my presence
                            either proper, or justifiable, I shall lose no time in repairing to my post.
                        I should be remiss in my duty not to inform your Excellency that it was with the greatest difficulty that I
                            procured an express to go to Saratoga for want of something to pay his expences. And in a department that requires so
                            much intelligence to be communicated, (if possible) some provisions ought to be made; at the same time knowing that your
                            Excellency will do all in your power for the Public good, your directions on this, and every other subject, shall be my
                            invariable, and certain guide.
                        Your Letter of the 28th of June is just come to hand. I shew it to General Schuyler, who,
                            is polite enough to promise me every assistance in his power, either in advice or knowledge of the Country, and Property
                            if required.
                        I congratulate your Excellency on his fortunate Escape the night before last. He writes by this conveyance,
                            otherwise I should give you the Particulars.
                        There is not a drop of Public Rum in the departmt. I could wish a  quantity might be ordered this way as large as might amount to our proportion. Your Excellency must
                            know that if I do my duty, I must keep scouts continually in the Woods, and men on that service ought to have a little
                            grogg, in addition to fresh beef, and Water.
                        Every Intelligence worthy your Excellencys notice shall be regularly communicated, if in my power.
                        Most sincerely wishing your operations against our Enemies all the success that the Virtue and rectitude of
                            our cause deserve. I have the Honor to be with much respect and Esteem, your Excellency’s Most Obedient, & very H.
                            St

                            John Stark

                            N.B. It is not in my power to give you a true state of the departmt at present; but whenever it is in
                                my power, I shall lose no time in Communicating it to you. Should be glad to know the Number of Troops I am to expect
                                from the State of N. York.

                            J. S.

                     Enclosure

                                 16 July 1781

                            By Barry St Leger Esqr. Colonel of Infantry Commanding
                            his Magisties 34th Regiment & district of St John.
                            Done at St Johns this 16th day of July 1781
                            You will proceed with your party to St Corik &c. and bring me from thence one
                                or more Intelligent Persons, having made them Prisoners.
                            you must be necessarily aware of the great address and courage required to do this Business with honor to
                                yourself and advantage to your cause.
                            As I know the men I send with you to be brave and some of them Veterans, you must not think of submitting
                                in case of being observed before you have executed this business, but to a very decided superiority of Numbers, and an
                                Impossibility of retreating. Upon such an accident as this, you will shew your Enemies these orders, to evince, that
                                you are come Avowed by and openly in Arms to the duty you are commanded upon and not like spies and lurking assasins
                                as are too often for the honor of War, sent from the Enemy to this Province.
                            I will have no wanton mischief done to individuals whereby they may be made wretched and the great cause
                                not being Benefited. At the same time I must inform you that every thing that tends to the General comfort of the
                                Enemy, is to be an object of Immediate destruction, being an usage sanctioned and authorised by the
                                Laws of War.

                                Barry St Leger

                                Copy


Title: General Orders, 10 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters near Dobbs Ferry Friday August 10th 1781.
                            Parole Versailles
                            Countersigns Dunkirk Brest

                        For the day tomorrow
                        Major General Lord Stirling
                        vice Brigr Huntington
                        Colonel Tupper
                        For Picquet Major Clift
                        Inspector Captain Remick
                        At a General Court Martial held at West Point July 19th Edmunde Burke a Soldier in the first New York
                            regiment charged with "being concerned in the mutiny at Albany on the 6 ultimo" was found guilty being a breach of Article
                            3d Section 2d of the rules and Articles of War and Sentenced to suffer Death.
                        At the same Court July 21st Garret Lansing soldier in the 1st New York regiment charged.
                        First "with Desertion and joining the Enemy.
                        secondly with Changing his Name to John Johnston and reinlisting in the Massachusetts line" was found guilty
                            being a breach of the 1 and 3d Articles Section 6th of the Rules and Articles of War and sentenced to suffer Death.
                        The Commander in Chief Approves the foregoing Sentences and orders that against Edmund Burke to be carried
                            into execution—But is pleased to remit the Sentence against Lansing who is to be released from Confinement.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 10 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                            Dear SirHead Quarters Dobbs’s ferry August 10th 1781

                        An Anxiety for your Excellency’s safety induces me to transmit a report, I lately rec’d from New York, though
                            it may not in reallity have a sufficient foundation, still caution on the subject may not be improper.
                        I am informed that George Harden, James Kilty, one Bice of Dutchess County and a fourth person whose name is
                            not noted, are promised a very considerable reward if they will sieze your person and conduct you to New York.
                        The places to which these fellows resort, (together with Richard Smith (son of Claudius Smith) and Isaac
                            Sissis a Mulatto, who are both also traversing the Country) are at a Patrick McDonnalds above the High
                            Lands, at Galloway’s son in law to Austin Smith, at Fletcher Mathews’s and his fathers, at Colemans Unckle to Richard
                            Smith; and at the Rumney’s one or both whome are brothers by Law to Claudius Smith.
                        Your Excellency will judge of the propriety of having those places watch’d, as also John Heffering at Murders
                            Creeck who it is said serves as a pilot to convey people from McDonalds through the Mountains below Soverign’s Tavern on
                            their way to New York. With wishes for your personal Safety, I am with great esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Humbl.
                            Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander McDougall, 10 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters Dobbs’s Ferry 10th Augt 1781.

                        I have received your favors of the 3d and 6th Instants. The bringing forward the Corps of Invalids from
                            Philada and Boston was a matter of necessity and not of choice. We must therefore submit to some inconveniencies and put
                            them to duties of the lightest kind.
                        I have approved the sentences agt Burke and Lansing and forward herewith a Warrant for the execution of the
                            former. Lansing is pardonned. The Artillery Men under sentence were pardonned some days since and I thought Colo. Stevens
                            had sent up for them.
                        The Quarter Master General has had orders respecting the delivery of the Rations to the Boat Builders.
                        By accounts from Virginia, we may hourly expect a part of the troops from thence to New York. This makes it
                            necessary to add to our force here. You will therefore be pleased to send down Van schaicks and Hazens Regiments with
                            their Camp Equipage as expeditiously as possible. They may come by land or by Water as you may think best. If in the last
                            way, let a detachment from Majr Darby’s command come down in the Boats to carry them immediately back. I would have Burke
                            executed before the Regiment leaves the Point.
                        Inclosed you have the Copy of a number of Charges which have been exhibited by Capt. Woelper against Colonel
                            Nichola. You will furnish the Colonel with a Copy and as soon as Capt. Woelper arrives at the Garrison, let an arrest take
                            place, and order a trial without loss of time. I am with great Esteem Dear Sir Yr Most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lewis Nicola, 10 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Nicola, Lewis

                            sir
                            Head Quarters Dobb’s Ferry 10th Augst 1781.

                        I have received yours of the 4th inst. informg your Arrival with the Corps of Invalids at West Point,
                            & inclosing a Return of their Numbers. the Difficulties which you apprehend in their Duty & Subsistance at
                            their present Station, I fancy will mostly vanish On Experience.
                        Copy of The Charges exhibited against you by Capt. Woelpper, I have transmitted to Genl McDougall—&
                            desired him to institute a Court Martial theron, as soon as the Accuseant arrives at the Point.
                        If the proper Charge against Sergt Carleton for his Desertion, is exhibited—& the Evidences to
                            support it are produced—he may be bro’t to Trial imediately at the Point. I am sir Yours &ca

                            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Silvanus Seely, 10 August 1781
From: Seely, Silvanus
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                             10 August 1781

                        I wrote you on the 29th of Last in which was inclosed a return of the Number of Men I had at that time—I
                            began my march on the 2nd Instant & on the 7th I arived at this place—Agreeable to your Excellencys direction I
                            Ordered the remainder of the Men to Rendezvouze at Morris Town & left a Captain with orders that as soon as thirty
                            or forty Men arived to send them on under the care of an Officer (& to Continue at that Post untill further
                            orders). On my march I received orders from his Excellency Govr Levingston to order four Companies of the State Regiment
                            to Join me & in order to facilitate their March I sent Major Crane to March them on And expect they will Join me
                            in a few days—I have inclosed your Excellency a short return of the Officers and men that have already Join’d (including
                            the Major and Captn on Command) I have also made a report to Colo. Dayton. I have the Honour to be with
                            the greatest Respect your Excellencies Most Obedient Hume servt

                            Silvs: Seely


Title: General Orders, 11 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters near Dobbs Ferry Saturday August 11 1781
                            Parole Baltimore
                            Countersigns Trenton Sussex

                        For the Day tomorrow
                        Major General Heath
                        Colonel Butler
                        For Picquet Major Knapp
                        Inspector Captain Drew
                        The Guard at Dobbs ferry is to be relieved daily and is to be visited by the officers of the day who will
                            likewise visit the whole chain of guards from the North river to where our picquets join those of the French Camp.
                        While the Army remains in its present position Colonel Sheldon will consider himself under the immediate
                            command of Colonel Scammell.


Title: To George Washington from Paul-François-Jean-Nicolas, comte de Barras, 11 August 1781
From: Barras, Paul-François-Jean-Nicolas, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Monsieur,
                            A Newport le 11. Aoùt 1781.

                        J’ai l’honneur d’informer Votre Excellence que la frégate la Concorde vient de mouiller dans cette rade. Elle
                            m’a aporté des Dépêches intéressantes. Je vous prie de me permettre de ne pas vous les faire passer pour ne pas retarder
                            le départ du Pouzard qui les porte à M. le Comte de Rochambeau. J’ai mandé à ce Général de les
                            communiquer à votre Excellence, ainsi que tout ce que je lui écris.
                        Je suis avec respect, Monsieur, De Votre Excellence Le très humble et très obéissant serviteur,

                            barras


Title: To George Washington from Patrick Dennis, 11 August 1781
From: Dennis, Patrick
To: Washington, George

                            Sir.
                            Basken Ridge N. Jersey 11th Augt 81

                        Captain Dobbs with five other Gentlemen arrived here last Evening, for whome I have procured accomodations in
                            this Neighbourhood.
                        I have not received any orders or directions from your Excellency, nor the Admiralty board how they are to be
                            supplied with Horses &c. to conduct them down to the Shore, or to procure Boats, or any other necessaries which
                            may be wanted for the service, there being no Quarter Masters in this neighbourhood, nor have I any Authority to apply, if
                            there was, a Guard will be indispensably necessary, for we have to go a considerable way through a
                            disaffected Country with submission to your Excellency. A Requisition from you to the Governor of this state for some of
                            the Militia light Horse would answer, and I would beg leave to mention to your excellency that if Genl Freeman should
                            think it safe for us to stay att or near momouth, it would forward the service amazeingly, this place being so far
                            distant. I am with Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obet Servt

                            Patt. Dennis


Title: To George Washington from Thomas McKean, 12 August 1781
From: McKean, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Private.
                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia August 12. 1781.

                        By a vessel from Cadiz last night we are informed, that our Minister at the Spanish court, as late as the
                            11th June, has made but little progress in a negociation with them; they still appear friendly, but aim at cessions we
                            cannot make; they give encouragement respecting money at sometimes, again they are disappointed and cannot promise any
                            thing certain; they have however given Mr Jay liberty to accept Bills to the amount of One hundred and fifty thousand
                            Dollars, but have no known funds appropriated for the payment. In short their conduct appears rather insincere and
                            mysterious. Our public dispatches are intercepted; or obstructed in so much, that a free correspondence is almost
                            impracticable. Mr Cardoqui was to sett off from Madrid for Philadelphia sometime in June; but his intentions of coming
                            here have been so often announced, and the delay not accounted for, that Mr Jay will say nothing about him hereafter,
                            until he has actually sailed.
                        France acts a truly friendly part. We shall certainly obtain from her, this year, twenty millions of livres;
                            four of which will be retained for Doctor Franklin, to discharge the interest on Loan-Office Certificates; two supplied in
                            military stores &c. and the residue be subject to the directions of Congress. I have the strongest reasons to
                            believe that Colonel Laurens is now on the Ocean, and has with him two millions and an half of this money in specie: I
                            pray most sincerely for his safe arrival.
                        It is yet more than probable, that there will be a negociation for a general peace some time this Fall: the
                            Congress to assemble at Vienna. France has proposed that the United States of America shall have a Minister or Ministers
                            Plenepotentiary at the Congress: The Emperor is afraid this proposition may obstruct a measure he has much at heart; it
                            has been suggested, that if the United States are heared by Memorial it would probably answer; but to this France does not
                            seem to consent. The Emperor was expected in June or July at Paris on a visit. The probable consequence of which is yet in
                            dubio.
                        Sweden and Denmark have refused to assist the Dutch with Ships of War; Russia is undecided. Count Panin, the
                            Prime Minister of Russia, is removed. Mr Neckar’s resignation has been accepted by His Most Christian Majesty; this great
                            Character was not agreeable to the court of Spain, nor to the Officers at Versailles; he is said to have conducted with
                            too much Hauteur.
                        Out of Admiral Rodney’s thirty four Ships, laden with the plunder of St Eustatia, Monsieur Piquet has
                            certainly captured twenty four; and it is said, that five more have been picked up by Privateers; the Escort, consisting
                            of a 74, one 64 and two Frigates, with five of the convoy, escaped by their swiftness in sailing.
                        An expedition was in great forwardness at Cadiz, to consist of eight sail of the line besides frigates
                            &c. and eight or ten thousand Land-forces; the destination unknown. They were to sail in July, and conjectured to
                            be for the West-Indies or this Continent.
                        By a letter from the Marquis La Fayette of the 6th from Pamunky we have intelligence, that Lord Cornwallis,
                            with the Fleet formerly mentioned, and an addition of Whale-boats, carrying the greatest part of the British Army, have
                            arrived in York river, and landed at Glocester and York-town, which they now occupy. Your Excellency is probably
                            acquainted with their situation; however the Marquiss describes the one to be a small neck projected into the river; the
                            other surrounded by the river and a Morass. Genl O’Hara commands at Portsmouth.
                        The Honorable Robert R. Livingston was appointed by Congress, on Friday last, Secretary for foreign affairs.
                        Georgia has re-established her Government, and South Carolina is expected to be soon in capacity to do the
                            same. I am, Sir, with the most respectful attachment, Your Excellency’s Most obedient humble Servant

                            Thos M:Kean


Title: From Tench Tilghman to Richard Varick, 12 August 1781
From: Tilghman, Tench
To: Varick, Richard

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters 12th Augt 1781.

                        Be kind enough to look among the papers between the 20th of Decemr 1776 and the middle of January 1777 and
                            endeavour to find either a letter of appointment or recruiting Instructions to Colo. Saml B. Webb. If you find them be
                            pleased to make an exact Copy—certify it, and send it to me by return of the Bearer. It is wanted to settle a dispute of
                            Rank. I am Dear Sir yr most obt servt

                            Tench Tilghman
                            A.D.C.


Title: From George Washington to Patrick Dennis, 13 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Dennis, Patrick

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Dobbs’s Ferry 13th Augt 1781.

                        I have recd your favr of the 11th by Mr Prevost. I do not think it will be prudent for you or any of the
                            pilots to go nearer the Coast than you are at present, untill you know from Genl Forman that the Fleet has made its
                            appearance—indeed I do not think it will be quite safe for Capt. Dobbs and the other pilots to remain constantly in the
                            same lodgings, even at Baskenridge. I would recommend it to them to shift every now and then, leaving word where they are,
                            that should an Express arrive they may be found on the instant.
                        I think it will be best to take up a light Waggon for those who have not Horses already provided, should you
                            be called down to the Coast—I shall furnish money for the hire of that and other Charges—I gave Capt. Dobbs ten Guineas
                            towards defraying Expences when he went from hence—There will be no danger between Basken Ridge and Monmouth Court House,
                            and from thence to the shore an Escort will be easily procured, especially when it shall be found that a French Fleet is
                            off.
                        Boats will undoubtedly be sent from the Fleet sufficient to carry you off—Genl Forman will have gone on board
                            before you can get down and will have informed the Admiral that you are in waiting. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to David Forman, 13 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

                            SirHead Quarters near Dobbs Ferry 10 OClock A.M. Augst 13th 1781

                        I was favored with your Letter dated Saturday Evening 9 OClock, on Sunday about 11 OClock A.M. by your Chain
                            of Expresses.
                        If the fleet shall not prove to be from Virginia, with Lord Cornwallis’ Troops as you conjecture, I shall
                            expect to hear in the course of this day, agreeably to your intimation. I need not urge again the importance of he present moment, & how anxious I am to obtain
                            the earliest information of every thing that may be interesting to us. With great regard I am Sir Your Most Obed. Servt

                            G.W.


Title: To George Washington from William Greene, 13 August 1781
From: Greene, William
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Warwick 13th August 1781.

                        I had the Honour of receiving your Excellency’s favour of the 7th Instant, and inform you, that immediately
                            upon the receiving your letter of the 24th of last May, I imbraced the earliest oppertunity of laying it before the
                            Assembly, who very readily complyed with its contents, and ordered five Hundred of the Militia of this State to be raised
                            and Stationed at the different Posts on Rhode Island, by the 8th of last June, to do duty for the term of one Month, since
                            which there has been two other orders for five Hundred Men in each, to relieve Monthly until about the eighth of September
                            next, by reason of the deficiency of the State of Massachusets in not sending forward their Troops as a relief agreable to
                            your Requisition as it was conceivd by the Assembly that your letter imply’d to that amount. But discover by yours of the
                            7th a very esential difference which I shall lay before the Assembly in the early part of their sessions to be held on the
                            20th Instant, who I make not the least doubt will very readily comply with it although it is truly distressing in addition
                            to the many extraordinary exertions heretofore made, by this State.
                        By the best information I have been able to procure, there was Sixty one Men including Officers from the
                            State of Massachusets on Rhode Island the twenty second Day of last July, and by another Return since of the 1st Instant
                            there was including Officers One Hundred and ten only; I thought it might be prudent to inform your Excellency of this,
                            that you might have knowledge thereof & if you think proper to call upon Governor Hancock to have the remainder
                            forwarded. I am with every Sentiment of Esteem & respect Your Excellencys most Obedient
                            & most Humble Servt

                            W: Greene

                            N.B. as your Requisitions of the 24 May and that of the 7th of August are so meterily different, that
                                you may not think I am mistaken I have inclosed you a Copy of that of the 24th May.

                            W.G.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 13 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Dobb’s Ferry 13th Augst 1781.

                        I have been honored with your Excellency’s favors of the 28th ulto and 3d 7th and 9th Insts.
                        I esteem myself happy in a personal communication with Mr Morris & Mr Peters. good consequences must
                            certainly result from taking up the affairs of the next campaign at so early a period as the present.
                        I shall in obedience to the order of Congress transmit their resolve respecting the treatment of our marine
                            prisoners to the officer commanding the british Fleet at New York—but I think it more than probable that he will have
                            address enough to procure the materials to frame an answer similar to that which was made to the last remonstrance on the
                            same subject. These were no others than ample certificates under the hands of several of our Captains and Mates then
                            remaining on board the prison Ships—that the charges of ill treatment were in every respect groundless.
                        I have information that a Float of twenty sail entered the hook on saturday last—Genl Foreman, my informant,
                            was of opinion they were from Virginia. I expect to hear from him again every moment, with a certain Account from whence
                            they were. I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most obedient Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 13 August 1781
From: Peters, Richard,Morris, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Sir.
                            Camp 13th Augt 1781

                        The Order of Congress which we have the Honour to communicate directing us to confer with your Excellency on
                            the Subject of the proposed Numbers & Arrangements of the Army for the next Campaign, not having pointed out the
                            Reasons inducing the Measure, we have the Honour to lay before you our Ideas on the Subject so far as we are acquainted
                            with the Matter from a Conference at which we were present in Philadelphia, had by a Comittee of Congress, the Subscriber
                            as Superintendant of Finance & the Board of War persuant to a Resolution of Congress with a Copy of which your
                            Excellency has been furnished—After the full Conversation with which we were honoured the 12th inst. it is unnecessary to
                            enter at large into those Reasons or to urge the pressing Necessity of œconomizing our Affairs so as to make our Revenues
                            in a great Degree meet our Expences. Your Excellency must be equally sensible with us of this Necessity & we are
                            perfectly convinced you are equally disposed to assist in every Measure tending to promote so desirable an Object. You are
                            also impressed with the Impolicy of calling on the States for Men or Money in Numbers & Quantities so extensive as
                            to alarm the timid & to excite among even the zealous & considerate Ideas of the Impracticability of
                            carrying on the War upon such Terms. Demands of this Nature instead of animating to Exertions are only productive of
                            hopeless Languer. Your mortifying Experience of the inadequate Compliance heretofore with former Demands will explain the
                            Motives inducing to the Expediency of moderating those Demands so as to render them productive & in Case of
                            Failure to leave the delinquent State without Excuse. Your Excellency has doubtlessly considered that the Class of Men who
                            are willing to become Soldiers is much diminished by the War & therefore the Difficulties of raising an Army equal
                            to former Establishments have increased & will continue to increase & embarrass the States in their
                            Measures for filling up their Quotas should the Mode of recruiting the Army be continued in the present Line—You will also
                            have considered that the Enemy proportionably debilitated by the War are incapable of opposing to us the Force we
                            originally had to encounter & therefore the Necessity of such extensive Levies as we formerly raized seems to be
                            in some Measure superceded. In what Degree the Forces of these States should be decreased we do not pretend to determine;
                            leaving this to your Excellency’s better Judgment. But from past Experience it should seem that the States are incapable
                            of bringing into the Field an Army equal to that called for by the last Arrangement. Or if all the Demands of Congress on
                            the States become merely pecuniary it does not seem probable that they can or will furnish Money for raizing, equipping
                            & supporting such an Army. We should be happy were we capable from any Information we are possessed of to assist
                            your Excellency in the Investigation of the Subject with Respect to the probable Designs or Force of the Enemy the next
                            Campaign. This must in its Nature depend upon Contingencies at present even beyond Conjecture. At this Time therefore in
                            our Apprehension the only solid Ground of Procedure is to consider what Force these States under present Circumstances are
                            capable of producing.
                        Having thus in general mentioned the Ideas which have arisen on the Subject we beg to leave the Matter to
                            your Excellency’s Consideration & take the Liberty of proposing the following Queries after further mentioning
                            that it has been conceived it would be expedient in Case of a Reform to lessen the Numbers of Regiments so as to make
                            fewer Commissioned Officers necessary & to encrease the Numbers of Non Commissioned Officers & Privates in
                            those Regiments—It has been supposed that a considerable Saving would ensue from this Measure by not having so many
                            Officers in full Pay with their Horses, Servants, Baggage & other consequential Expences in the Field; or if they
                            remain in Quarters from Want of Commands they are in a Situation disagreeable to their own Feelings & uselessly
                            expensive to the public: We presume that Gentlemen qualified for Staff Officers might be found among the retiring Officers
                            & that Artificers & other Persons employed by the Staff Departments should not enter into the present
                            Calculation as the Officers at the Heads of those Departments should be enabled to carry on their Business without taking
                            Men from the Line—a practice introduced from Necessity very prejudicial to Discipline & productive of pernicious
                            Consequences by diminishing the effective Force of the Army.
                        Query 1. Is a Reduction of the Numbers of Officers & Men as fixed by the last Arrangement of the Army
                            expedient or proper?
                         2. How can this Reduction be brought about consistent with the Good of the Service & what
                            Arrangement should be made in Consequence of this Reduction?
                        The Answers to the above Queries will no Doubt include the Numbers of Men necessary for the next Campaign
                            & the Organization of them so as to designate the Number of Regiments & the Numbers in those Regiments
                            both of Commissioned & Non Commissioned Officers & Privates as well regimentally as by Companies. The
                            Expediency of having fewer Regiments of Horse & Artillery & of consolidating the independent Corps will
                            also we presume come under your Excellency’s Consideration.
                         3d. What Periods of Enlistment under present Circumstances are most proper to be adopted?
                        4th. What Regulations can be made to modify the Practice of taking Soldiers from the Line as Servants to
                            Officers? On this Head we beg Leave to submit to your Opinion a Copy of a Motion made in Congress on this Subject.
                        5. What is to be done with Officers by Brevet or those who have no particular Commands? Can they not be
                            placed in the Regiments or retire on Half pay?
                         6. Would it be practicable consistent with Justice & the Good of the Service to call into actual
                            Service Officers who have retired on half Pay by the former Arrangement to fill Vacancies happening in the Lines to which
                            they respectively belong? We have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem your very obedt Servants

                            Robt Morris S.G. of Finance
                            Richard Peters Member of the Board of War

                            Copy Genl Varnum’s Motion
                            "Resolved That no Officer be permitted to take with him on Furlough any Soldier without receiving the
                                Permission of the Commander in Chief or commanding Officer of a separate Department And that the Board of War take
                                Order that Soldiers now retained from the Army in either Department as Waiter, to Officers
                                immediately join their respective Corps."


Title: From George Washington to George Walton, 13 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Walton, George

                            GentlemenHead Quarters Dobbs’s Ferry 13th Augt 1781.

                        I am honored with your favr of the 7th—I can with no propriety give a decided opinion upon the matter which
                            you have been pleased to refer to me, without being acquainted with what has previously passed between the Commissaries of
                            prisoners or Commissioners for settling a Cartel respecting the Rank of Mr Elbert. If he has been heretofore claimed by
                            the enemy as a Brigadier of Militia and allowed as such by us, he is undoubtedly released by the terms of the Cartel
                            lately established—If on the contrary he has been considered as a Continental Colonel, he must await his exchange—The
                            matter seems to rest upon the determination of the above simple facts. I am unacquainted with any thing relating to the
                            case of Govr Wright.
                        It is no small addition to the pleasure I feel upon the favorable turn of affairs to the southward to find
                            that it is the general opinion that the happy change has been wrought, almost solely, by the personal abilities of Major
                            Genl Greene. My long acquaintance with the merits of that valuable Officer made me certain that his exertions, even if not
                            successful, would justify my appointment—I must confess he has more than answered my warmest expectations. I have the
                            honor to be with Respect Gentn Yr most obt servt.


Title: To George Washington from David Waterbury, 13 August 1781
From: Waterbury, David
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Camp White Plains Augt 13th 1781

                        Agreeable to your Excellency’s Orders I send enclosed the Papers from a Flag now at Stamford from Lloyd’s
                            Neck which were sent to me from Major Humphry’s with a desire to forward them immediately to Head Quarters. I have the
                            Honour to be Your Excellency’s most Obedt Humble Servant

                            David Waterbury

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                 c.13 August 1781

                            Some time A Go I Came down from Newburgh the west side of the North River of A desire to go on Longisland
                                in A flag as they went from here but was unhappily Disappointed I stayed A  here A month as
                                    negh as I can Recollect I not being acquainted with getting A flag when I came from home I had
                                not A permit from his Excelency Governor Clinton I was advised to send and get one which I did but after I had sent I
                                heard that they would not Recieve flags on the Island I advised with my friends at Norwalk what to do as I had such A
                                desire to see my Parents that I had not seen for above 5 Years and that I was Married just before the war I left the
                                island when the British was hourly expected in I went away in such A hurry that I Could not Carry away what my Parents
                                would have Given me I was in A strait from some particular things and with the advice of my friends
                                I went over in A wail boat from this side & it was not my Choice I am now Returned in A
                                flag with A few things I heard by A flag before I came from the island that I had A permit Come and that I might
                                return and have so done and I beg leave of his Excelency that I might return with my few things to my family if I have transgrssed I ask forgiveness and I hope that
                                his Exalency will Enquire my Caracter of Col. Lutelo who quartered at our hous last winter he knows that we are good
                                friends to Amarica and wish it well I am sorry to make you so much trouble I am A wife to Able Belknap Esqr. at
                                Newburgh I am mentioned in the flag at New Winsor but it is A mistake

                                Hannah Belknap

                     Enclosure

                                May it Please your honnour, c.13 August 1781

                            I Sarah James Wife of Allen James in south Kingston in the State of Rohod issland by Permission of the
                                General Assembly to come to Long island and to Return back as my mother went to Long island Just before the Island
                                given up & died there not Long ago and I being the only Child she had and Left me a Considerble
                                    Valley Interest to me so I had Liberte from the state of Rohed island and Likewise a flag
                                granted from Cornal Ledger at New London (and was Landed by the flag there and) now got Liberty to
                                come here but could not get my  my Papers to send head Quarters see if they would give me
                                Liberty to have what I had Left me & I could not get it may it Please your honour to grant me Liberty to
                                Return home to my family & I shall Take it a great faviour,

                                Sarah James


Title: To George Washington from Meshech Weare, 13 August 1781
From: Weare, Meshech
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Hampton falls Augt 13. 1781

                        I am honord with the Receipt of your Excellency’s favor of the 2d Instant informing me of the deficiency of
                            the Levies for the Continental Army, And that none of the Militia had come in from this State; And the critical Situation
                            you are now in, which most Sensibly Affects me. I have the fullest conviction of the necessity of the Army’s being filld
                            up to their full Compliment at this critical Period, and the probable fatal consequences of a failure herein Or in their
                            being properly Supplied. And your Excellency may be Assurd that no Exertions have been wanting on the part of the
                            Executive of the State, for procuring their full quota of Men And Supplies. Immediately on the Acts passing, Orders were
                            issued for Raising the men to compleat our quota of the Continental Army, And for Raising 400 of the Militia to be held in
                            Readiness to march within one week after calld for, Agreeable to your Excellency’s Recommendation in your letter from
                            Wethersfield of the 24th of May. At that time Continental Bills of the new emission had a full currency Among us, And were
                            the Only Medium we had, no provision was made for raising Any Specie, nor was there Any circulateing Among us. Soon after
                            that from some Unaccountable fatality, for what Reason I cannot comprehend, the Continental Bills were Refused by the
                            People in the Massacusetts, to be taken in payment for Any thing, which was Soon follow’d by the Other neighbouring
                            States, And is now wholly rejected, that the Smallest Article of Any kind cannot be purchased with it So that we are now
                            wholly destitute of Any Medium. Hard money we have not, nor can we Obtain Any on Any terms. Had it not been for this
                            unaccountable And Altogether unexpected destruction of Our Currency the only one we had, I doubt not we should have been
                            Able to carry the Acts fully into effect. Excepting in that part of the State which as I mentiond in my letter of the 23d
                            of July, under pretence of Joyning with what they call Vermont, have Refused to raise men or furnish Supplies of Any kind
                            So that there will be a deficiency on that Account of more than a quarter part both of Men And Supplies, untill Congress
                            before whom the matter lies, shall determin upon it. I am not Able to give a perfect Account of the number of Recruits
                            that have been Raisd for filling up the Army the Returns that have been made Amount to 320, but I have
                            had no Returns for more than a month past. As to the Militia we hand not Receivd the least information at what time they
                            were to march And joyn the Army, Untill your letter of the 2d Instant, by which it Appears you had given directions for
                            their Joyning the Army by the 15th of last month which never came to hand, And now by reason of the total rejection of the
                            Continental Currency we find it out of our power to raise money sufficient to carry them to the Army, So that the
                            executive find themselves bro’t to a full Stop, unable to proceed Any further, And thereupon have sent out Orders for
                            conveneing the General Assembly As Speedily As May be Who are to meet the 22d Instant to consult what measures are to be
                            pursued in our present Situation. It is with Anxious concern that I am Obligd to give your Excellency this information of
                            Our present Situation, I will Still hope that some method may be found out to extricate us from our present Embarrasments,
                            with Respect to a medium. As our Militia cannot March untill the general Assembly meet, I will Ask the favor of a line
                            from you as Soon as may be, whether it will be of Advantage to forward them at that late Period. I have the honor to be
                            with every Sentiment of Respect Yr Obt and Humle Sert

                            Meshech Weare


Title: From George Washington to David Forman, 14 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters near Dobbs Ferry 11 OClock A.M. Augst 14. 1781

                        I have safely received your favor of yesterday Morning, about an hour ago.
                        Before the arrival of your Letter, I had not received any particulars of the fleet lately arrived at N. York,
                            but expect minute Accts every instant; I shall comply with your request; as it is my most earnest desire by comparing all the
                            different intelligences to ascertain the state of Matters among the Enemy, with the utmost accuracy & precision.
                            With great regard & esteem I am Sir.


Title: To George Washington from Lewis Nicola, 14 August 1781
From: Nicola, Lewis
To: Washington, George

                            Sr
                            West point 14th Aug. 1781

                        I have the honour to inclose to your Excellency a return of the detachment of the Invalid regt at Fishkill, I
                            should have sent it sooner but that at first view of the men I immagined some of them might be fit for field duty, which I
                            could not ascertain at the time I saw them therefore, as soon as possible sent the surgeon and adjutant to examine them
                            & yesterday they made their report that all the men there were disqualified by age, wounds & infirmities.
                        The whole detachment has been new closed with Brittish clothing & most of the men I brought from
                            Philadelphia have not been cloathed for near two years & several are at present quite destitute, as I am informed
                            there is plenty of Brittish clothing at Boston, which I presume will be judged improper for troops in the field, I request
                            your order for what may be necessary to cloth the rest of the regt. I am further informed that the serjeants
                                coats which are generally of a midling fine cloth, have been given to the officers, I wish, for
                            uniformity sake & because, from the badness of their pay, our officers are unable to provide for themselves, the
                            same favour might be extended to the rest of the officers who are willing to pay what they may be valued at. I was
                            surprised to find that the clothing the Boston detachment has is that of the 5th a regiment in which I began my
                            soldiership & continued 16 years. Permit me to assure you that I am with respect Your Excellencies Most obedt
                            Servt

                            Lewis Nicola Col. Invd


Title: To George Washington from Edward Rutledge, 14 August 1781
From: Rutledge, Edward
To: Washington, George

                            Philadelphia Augt 14th 1781.

                        I feel a real Satisfaction my dear General, in having it once more in my Power to address you without the
                            Restraints that are imposed by Captivity, & to assure you that, neither Absence or Misfortunes have in the
                            smallest Degree abated the Attachment, & Friendship I have so long borne you. I will not wound your Humanity by a
                            Relation of the many Hardships, and unmanly Insults we have sustained from British Officers, & new-made Subjects,
                            during our Confinement; nor shall I lament that, we have suffered, if our Sufferings, & the Firmness which I trust
                            we have shewn in the midst of apparent Evils, can be converted into real Blessings, by animating my Countrymen to a Sense
                            of their Duty, & convincing them that, their only Resource for Happiness, is in a Freedom from British Government.
                        The Congress seem disposed to avail themselves of our late Situation, & have desired that we will
                            furnish them with an authentic Account of the Conduct of the Enemy, from the Surrender of Charles Town to the Time of our
                            Exchange; with a View as we are told, of retaliating. But, to particularise one half of their Cruelty, &
                            Injustice, is beyond the Reach of human Labour; however their most flagrant, & atrocious Acts of violence,
                            & apprehension will be pointed out, & if the Congress should retain their present Sentiments,
                                they will soon possess Materials not only to justify, but to require, & exact (if I may use
                            a British Officer’s Expression) "Retaliation with a Vengeance." Yet I imagine they have too much of the Milk of
                            Human-kindness in their Composition to bear them thro’ this painful, tho’ necessary Business—indeed warmed as I am by my
                            own Sufferings, & by what is of infinitely greater Consequence, I mean the Sufferings of my Friends, I am
                            persuaded I myself should not be able to do moderate Justice to the injured—I find by Letters which were Yesterday
                            received from Genl Greene that, he is extremely anxious to have a Civil Government
                            established in So.:Carolina—it is certainly a desireable Object, but I hope it will not be attempted
                            until Genl Wayne shall arrive with his Troops in that State—To proceed to an Election without enabling such of the Militia
                            as are in the Field to attend, would give vast Advantage to the disaffected, & timid, & to withdraw the
                            Friends of the State from the Field, would be to expose the Continentals whom I consider as the Stamina of the Army,
                                to essential Injury. Indeed our Country is, & has so long been, in a disjointed Condition
                            that, I really believe we shall have the whole Business of Civil Government to go over. However we must take
                            "Perseverance" for our Motto, our Crest, & our Arms, & we shall soon see I hope an End of our Labors. I
                            myself shall not be able to go to the Southward until the latter End of September at soonest—A Constitution naturally
                            feeble, has of late Years received very many Shocks, I would there fore wish to remain in this part of the World until I
                            could have a Share of New Health infused into it, as well on Account of my Country as of my Friends & Family. Yet
                            before I take a Journey to my own State I shall embrace the favourable Opportunity which I possess, of paying my Respects
                            at Head Quarters, & of assuring you in Person how truly I am my dear General your most affectionate Friend
                            & humble Servt

                            Edwd Rutledge


Title: To George Washington from Aaron St. John, 14 August 1781
From: John, Aaron St.
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Camp Augus. 14th 1781

                        I Need only say that I belong to the Connecticut Line of the Army and am not a man of fortune to convince
                            Your Excellency that I am reduced to the necessity of asking a dismission, and in the midst of a Compain, pregnent with
                            the most flattering prospects that ever yet appeared in America—Indeed I should delight much in serving my Country till
                            expel’d from her borders the Usurpers of my Freedom, would my constituants grant me suport, but after serving near Two
                            Years upon the benevelence of my frinds, (as contrary as it is to every soldier like feeling) am Obliged at this time to
                                request a Discharge. From your most Obediant & most Humble servt

                            Aaron St John Ensn
                            3d Connt Regiment


Title: To George Washington from John Cleves Symmes, 14 August 1781
From: Symmes, John Cleves
To: Washington, George

                        May it please your Excellency

                            Pompton 14th Augst 1781.

                        Indictments are presented before me at the Court of Oyer & Terminer in & for the County of
                            Bergen against Andrew Coldeleugh a forage Master belonging to the Army for Trespass & false imprissonment.
                        I am sorry that my Duty oblidges me to trouble your Excellency on this Occasion, being fully sensible how
                            much your feelings are hurt, when any of your Officers, so far deviate from the Line of their Duty as to become amesnable
                            to the Law—And nothing but the Charges being attended with some aggravating Circumstances; and affecting Characters the
                            most Deserving, should have induced me (at this busy part of the Campaign) to request, that your Excellency would order Mr
                            Coldeleugh to attend without delay, to answer the Charges exhibited against him—I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s
                            Most Obt & Hble Servt

                            John Cleves Symmes


Title: From George Washington to John Cleves Symmes, 14 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Symmes, John Cleves

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters near Dobbs Ferry Augst 14th 1781

                        I have recd your Letter of this date, respecting Mr Coldclough a forage Master belonging to the Army.
                        The circumstances of the affair in question, I am totally unacquainted with—but you may be assured, that at
                            the same time I am very unhappy, that any differences should arise between Citizens & Persons belonging to the
                            Army; It is not my wish that any who have been guilty of Crimes properly cognizable by the Laws of the Land should be
                            exculpated, or schreened from justice.
                        At this stage of the Campaign, however, it would be very inexpedient to direct a Person to
                            be taken from the execution of his duty, whose services could not possibly be so essential at any other period as at the
                            present. I am Sir Your Most Obed. Servt.


Title: General Orders, 15 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Wednesday August 15th 1781.
                            Parole Staten Island
                            Countersigns Springfield
                            Chatham

                        For the Day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Glover
                        Lieutenant Colonel Newhall
                        For Picquet Major B. Porter
                        Inspector Captain Remick
                        The Army will hold itself in the most perfect readiness to move at the shortest notice.
                        Colonel Scammell’s detachment is to be immediately completed to its original establishment by men every way
                            qualified to act as Light Infantry; and any men now in the corps who do not answer that description are to be changed
                            without delay—Colonel Scammell will make application to the different corps for their deficiencies and the exchange of
                            such of the men as are unfit for the service he is employed on.
                        Colonel Gouvion being on Court Martial Captain Rochfontaine will give the necessary directions for the
                            employment of the working party ordered yesterday.
                        The General Court Martial whereof Colonel Putnam is President is dissolved and another ordered to assemble
                            tomorrow morning 10 ô clock at the President’s Marquee or such place as he may direct for the trial of all such Prisoners
                            as shall come before them.
                        Colonel Swift will Preside.
                        Lieutenant Colonel C. Smith, Major Oliver, two Captains from the first Connecticutt, two from the second
                            Connecticutt, one from the first Massachusetts, two from the second, one from the third and two from the New Hampshire
                            Brigades will attend as Members.
                        All Evidences and Persons concerned to attend.
                        An orderly serjeant from each Division to be sent to the court daily.
                        Thomas Dean Esqr. will take Post at Storm’s bridge vice I. Requa and Joseph Youngs Esqr. will be posted at
                            the bridge near Chattiton’s hill instead of Eden Hunt mentioned in the orders of the 5th instant.
                        After Orders
                        A Working party consisting of a Sub two serjeants two Corporals and Thirty privates from Van Schaick’s
                            regiment and a like Party from the regiment of Hazen will assemble on their respective parades with their arms and one
                            days Provisions tomorrow morning at eight ô clock: They will receive their Instructions from the Quarter Master
                        General.


Title: From George Washington to Paul-François-Jean-Nicolas, comte de Barras, 15 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Barras, Paul-François-Jean-Nicolas, comte de

                            P.S.
                             Augt 15th 1781.

                        The sentiments contained in the foregoing letter perfectly accords with my opinion, and I am more inclined to
                            adopt them, as we have seen in the British Gazettes accounts of a Squadron under the command of Admiral Digby said to be
                            intended to reinforce the British fleets in these Seas—Should this Squadron actually arrive—form a junction with Admiral
                            Rodney & Graves—and find the French Naval force seperated, it might, eventually, prove fatal to the fleets of his
                            most Christian Majesty commanded by the Count de Grasse & yourself—I cannot avoid repeating, therefore, in earnest
                            terms the request of the Count de Rochambeau that you would form the junction, & as soon as possible, with the
                            Count de Grasse in Chesapeak bay. With much respect I am Sir Yr most Obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 15 August 1781
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Boston August 15th 1781

                        Your Excellency’s several Letters have come duly to hand, & as early as receiv’d were laid before the
                            Assembly, & in Consequence of their Decisions your Requisitions were carried into Effect. The Powder, Mortars,
                            Cannon &c. were with all possible Expedition sent forward, & the means of Transportation furnish’d by this
                            Government. In one of your late Letters you mention that you had requested me to order Six hundred Militia to Albany This
                            Letter with several others of an earlier date I laid before our General Court & they are now upon their Files, I
                            do not recollect any request of that kind, but according to the best of my remembrance you wrote me, at the time you refer
                            to, that you should order Six hundred of the Militia to that place, & I suppos’d you had given directions to the
                            Brigadiers of the Western Counties accordingly, & agreeable to this Idea I gave Notice of this your Intention to
                            Colo. Willet previous to my receiving your Letter of 30th July, finding that there was an unaccountable Delay with respect
                            to the Marching of the Militia, I had repeated my Orders to the Brigadiers of the several Counties strictly enjoining them
                            instantly & without any longer delay to March the Three Months Men of the respective Counties to join the Army at
                            West Point or such other place as your Excellency should direct. And upon my receiving your favor of the 30th July
                            & agreeable to your request, I immediately gave orders to Major General Danielson to direct the Militia detach’d
                            from the Counties of Hampshire & Berkshire to March to Albany, these two Counties will furnish about Six hundred
                            Men. It is with reluctance that I am oblig’d to observe that there has been a strange delay in Detaching &
                            Marching the three Months Men, It may perhaps be owing in a great Measure to the Unorganiz’d State our Militia has been in
                            since the Commencement of the present Constitution, but besides this there has been a report industriously spread thro’
                            the State by some designing Persons that these Men were not wanted. This Occasion’d the repeating my Orders for their
                            being March’d off immediately, & I hope from what I have heard lately from the Country you will soon have most of
                            them with you—I am very much surpriz’d to learn by your favor of 2d inst. that the Reinforcement you have receiv’d should
                            be so inconsiderable, some of the States must certainly have been very deficient, as I find upon examining the returns I
                            have receiv’d that your Officers have sent from this State above Three Thousand Recruits, & from the Vigorous
                            Measures that were adopted by our Assembly in their last Session I have reason to think the remainder of our Quota of Men
                            for the Continental Army are procur’d & will be March’d off immediately. I expect every day to receive from the
                            Brigadiers a return of the Militia Men they have detached from their respective Brigades, when I shall give the necessary
                            Information to Your Excellency.
                        By a Letter I have just receiv’d from Mr Phelps our Purchasing Commissary I find that for the last Month he
                            has furnish’d considerably more than this State’s Quota of Beef, & he writes that Beef is so exceeding Plenty that
                            he thinks it will be in his Power punctually to furnish this State’s Quota, so that I can with Pleasure inform you that
                            there is the greatest Prospect of your being regularly supplied with that Article. As to Rum there has been a Quantity
                            procur’d & forwarded to Springfield & we have been lately affording all the Assistance in our Power to the
                            Quarter Master General to enable him to get it Transported to Camp—It is certainly of the last importance that our Army
                            should be filled up & fully & regularly supplied, & you may depend no Exertions of the Executive
                            here shall be wanting to enforce the Laws & Resolutions that have been pass’d by this State for these purposes.
                        Immediately upon your requisition for Five hundred Men for the Service at Newport Orders were issued for
                            detaching that Number for that place, & I have no doubt but the Number is nearly compleat.
                        You may depend that from time to time you shall be regularly made acquainted with every Decision of the
                            Assembly in Consequence of your requisitions, & their Resolutions shall be carried into Effect with all possible
                            Dispatch. I have the Honor to be with every Sentiment of Respect & Esteem, Your Excellency’s Most Obedt hume Servt

                            John Hancock


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 15 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear SirHead Quarters Dobbs’s Ferry 15th Augt 1781.

                        You will be pleased to take the inclosed Memorial of Udney Hay Esqr into consideration and report to me the
                            opinion of the Board of General Officers of which you are President, thereon. I am Yr most obt and very hble servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 15 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

                        My dear Marquis.

                            Head Quarters Dobbs’s Ferry 15th Augt 1781.

                        I have recd your letters of the 26th and 30th ulto and 1st Inst. I cannot learn that any troops have yet
                            arrived at New York from Virginia. A fleet of 20 sail came in last saturday with troops, but they are said to be Hessian
                            Recruits from Europe.
                        The Concorde Frigate is arrived at Newport from Count de Grasse. He was to leave St Domingo the 3d of this
                            month with a Fleet of between 25 and 29 sail of the line and a considerable Body of land forces—His destination is
                            immediately for the Chesapeak. So that he will either be there by the time this reaches you, or you may look for him every
                            moment—Under these circumstances—whether the enemy remain in full force, or whether they have only a detachment left, you
                            will immediately take such a position as will best enable you to prevent their sudden retreat thro’ North Carolina, which
                            I presume they will attempt the instant they perceive so formidable an Armament—Should General Wayne with the troops
                            destined for south Carolina still remain in the neighbourhood of James River and the enemy should have made no detachment
                            to the southward, you will detain those troops untill you hear from me again, and inform Genl Greene of the cause of their
                            delay—If Wayne should have marched and should have gained any considerable distance, I would not have him halted.
                        You shall hear further from me as soon as I have concerted plans and formed dispositions for sending a
                            reinforcement from hence—In the mean time I have only to recommend a continuation of that prudence and good conduct which
                            you have manifested thro’ the whole of your Campaign: You will be particularly careful to conceal the expected arrival of
                            the Count, because if the enemy are not apprised of it, they will stay on board their transports in the
                            Bay, which will be the luckiest Cercumstance in the World. You will take measures for opening a communication with Count
                            de Grasse the moment he arrives, and will concert measures with him for making the best uses of your joint forces untill
                            you receive aid from this quarter. I am &c.

                            P.S. I would not wish you to call out a lay body of Militia upon this occasion, but rather keep those
                                you have compact and ready for service.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Holden Parsons, 15 August 1781
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Camp Augt 15th 1781

                        By a late Resolution of Congress, the States of Rhode Island & Connecticut are made one District for
                            the purpose of Promotion, & intitled to two Brigadiers; the same Resolution provides that where a Brigadier is
                            necessary one shall be made from the Senior Officer of the District. that to which we belong has hitherto had but one; we
                            think the service, perticularly at this time, deserves another. Colonel Durkee is first on the List; we apprehend his not
                            having been promoted is owing to his want of a Habit of Health sufficient to discharge the Duties of the Station; we wish
                            the subordinate Officers in the Line of Succession may be no longer kept back from the promotion which is due to their
                            abilities, merits & just expectations.
                        Colonel Durkee has been Long in service, was wounded & disabled in his right hand in the Action near
                            Monmouth Court House; his Health so far impair’d as to render it improbable he can keep the Field, he is far advanc’d in
                            Life, & has a Family to support: should his promotion be thought incompatible with the good of the service, it
                            will make us happy to hear that some honorable, adequate & satisfactory provision is made for him out of the Line
                            of the Army, equal (all circumstances consider’d) to his present pay and Emoluments, which otherwise it cannot be expected
                            he will willingly relinquish; this we have reason to believe will be most agreeable to him: we beg leave to refer your
                            Excellency to the Colonel’s Letter on the subject; and to assure your Excellency with how much esteem & respect. We
                            are your Obedt Servants

                            Samel H. Parsons M.G.
                            J. Huntington B.G.
                            I. Sherman Lt Colo. Comdt
                            Thos Grosvernor Lt Colo.
                            W. Clift Majr
                            E. Huntington Lt Colo.
                            David Smith Majr
                            Jona. Johnson Lt Colo.
                            T. Woodbridge Majr
                            J. Olney Lt Colo. Comdt
                            Cogall Olney Major
                            Jno: Dexter Majr
                            Zbn Butler Colo.

                            Copy


Title: From George Washington to Jabez Bowen, 16 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Bowen, Jabez

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Dobbs’s Ferry 16th Augt 1781.

                        I am persuaded you will excuse the liberty I am about to take, when I assure you that the execution of the
                            business which I shall wish you to undertake is of the utmost importance. It is to ship and put under the Convoy of the
                            Count de Barras all the public salted provision at Providence and thirty Hhds of Rum if so many should be left—The Vessels
                            must go prepared for a Voyage of perhaps a Fortnight or three Weeks and if they cannot be procured upon the Credit of the
                            State (which I must again entreat to be pledged upon this occasion) I hope that measures will be taken by Government to
                            procure them by impress. A disappointment in the provision may frustrate an enterprise of as much importance to these
                            States as has perhaps been ever undertaken. I am in hopes the business may be accomplished before the sailing of Mr de
                            Barras, if it should not, the Vessels must not be risqued without Convoy; but I trust that every exertion will be used to
                            have them ready. I have the honor to be, with Respect and Esteem Sir Yr most obt servt.


Title: From George Washington to James Clinton, 16 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters Dobb’s Ferry Augst 16th 1781

                        I have been duly favored with your letter of the 9th Inst. announcing the arrival of General Stark to take
                            command in the northern department and informing that the state Levies were coming in, and the militia from the eastward
                            hourly expected.
                        You will be pleased therefore on the receipt of this to embark the remaining Companies of Colo. Courtland’s
                            regiment, and proceed immediately with them to King’s Ferry where you may expect to receive further orders. I am with
                            great regard & esteem Dear Sir Yr most obedient Servant

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. You will be particularly Careful not to leave any Men behind except a Non Commissioned officer and
                                a small guard of your weakest Men with Genl Schuyler.


Title: From George Washington to Philip John Schuyler, 16 August 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip John

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters Dobbs Ferry 16th Augst 1781.

                        I have only time to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of the 8th Inst. and to congratulate you on your
                            fortunate escape, which is attended with the more flattering circumstances from its having been effected entirely by your
                            own presence of Mind.
                        As the remaining part of Colo. Courtland’s Regiment is now ordered to join the main Army I have given
                            directions to Genl Clinton to leave a small guard of Men who are the least capable of active service with you—The
                            Commissary will have orders to replace the rum which you have borrowed for the public Service as soon as ever
                            circumstances will conveniently admit, at present there is not enough to satisfy the most pressing necessities of the
                            service. With great respect and esteem I have the honor to be Your most obedient Servant

                            Go: Washington