Title: From George Washington to Major General Lafayette, 4 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

          My dear Marqs
          New Windsor July 4th 79.

        Since my last which was written (to the best of my recollection for not having my Papers with me I cannot have recourse to dates) in March both Armies continued quiet in their winter cantonments till about the first of May when a detachmt of abt 2000 of the Enemy under the command of General Matthew convoyed by Sir George Collier made a sudden invasion of a Neck of land comprehending Portsmouth & Suffolk in Virginia, and after plundering & destroying the property (chiefly private) in those places & stealing a number of Negros returned to New York the moment they found the Country rising in Arms to oppose them.
        This exploit was immediately followed by a movement of Sir Henry Clinton up the North River the beginning of June. what the real object of this expedition was, I cannot with certainty inform you—Our Posts in the highlands were supposed to be his aim because they were of importance to us & consonant to his former plan for prosecuting the War but whether upon a nearer approach he found them better provided & more difficult of access than he expected—or whether his only view was to cut off the communication between the East & West side of the River below the highlands I shall not undertake

to decide—certain it is however that he came up in full force— disembarked at Kings ferry & there began to fortify the points on each side which to all intents and purposes are Islands & by nature exceedingly strong.
        This movement of the enemy and my sollicitude for the security of our defences on the River, induced me to March the Troops which were cantoned at Middle brook, immediately to their support & for the further purpose of strengthening the defences by additional Works. in this business I have been employed near three weeks. while the enemy have not been idle in establishing themselves as above. They have reinforced their main army with part of the garrison at Rhode Island.
        General Sullivan commands an Expedition against the Six Nation’s which aided by Butlar & Brandt, with their Tory Friends, & some force from Canada have greatly infested our Frontrs—He has already Marched to the Susquehanna with about 4000 Men all Continental Soldiers & I trust will destroy their Settlements & extirpate them from the Country which more than probable will be effected by their flight as it is not a difficult matter for them to take up their Beds and Walk.
        We have received very favourable accts from South Carolina. by wch it appears that the British Troops before Charles town have met with a defeat & are in a very perilous situation—We have this matter from such a variety of hands that it scarcely admits of a doubt and yet no official information is received of it.
        When my dear Marquis shall I embrace you again? Shall I ever do it? or has the charms of the amiable & lovely Marchioness—or the smiles and favors of your Prince with-drawn you from us entirely? At all times, & under all circumstances, I have the honor to be with the greatest regard personal attachment & affection. Yr Obedient Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Alexander McDougall, 4 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

          Dear Sir
          Head Quarters New Windsor 4th July 1779.

        To day being the anniversary of independence you will be pleased to have it taken notice of by discharging thirteen peices of cannon at one oClock.
        I wish we had it in our power to distribute a portion of rum to the Soldiers, to exhilerate their spirits upon the occasion; but unfortunately our stock is too scanty to permit. I am Dear Sir Your most Obedt servt

          Go: Washington

          P.S. Major Beauman told me yesterday he had some damaged powder, this had best be made use of.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 4 July 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Fort Montgomery [N.Y.] 4th July 1779

        I took the Liberty to mention to your Excellency the difficulty that the Light Corps experience in receiving the necessary Supplies of Clothing not being in a Situation to Apply to their Respective Regiments for the articles they may from time to time want.
        to remedy which, the Field Officers of the Corps propose the following plan Viz.
        “A Brigade Quarter Master to be Appointed to each Brigade of the Light Corps part of Whose duty will be to draw the Necessary Clothing from the Clothier General, on a General Return, & to Issue the same to each Regimental Quarter Master on proper Returns Mentioning each man’s name, Regiment & Company to which he belongs in the Line, with the Article or Articles he receives, these returns to be signed by the Field Officer Commanding each Batta[lio]n and be Signed by the Colonel of the Regiment as his Vouchers. & to transmit the accts to each Regimenl paymaster in the Line Monthly that they may be taken into his books in order to settle the Whole Regimental Clothing Accts with the Clothier General.”
        Shou’d your Excellency think proper to adopt this mode & give an Order On the C[l]othier General for the Articles mentioned in the Enclosed Return, I flatter myself that we shall have it in our power to Introduce Uniformity among the Light Corps belonging to the Respective States, & Infuse a Laudable pride and Emulation into the Whole—which in a Soldier is a Substitute for almost every Other Virtue.
        I must acknowledge that I have an ⟨mutilated⟩ prejudice in favor of an Elegant Uniform & Soldierly appearance—so much so that I would much rather risque my life and Reputation at the Head of the same men in an attack Clothed & Appointed as I could wish, with a Single Charge of Amunition—than to take them as they appear in

Common with Sixty Rounds of Cartridges—it may be a false Idea but I can’t help Cherishing it.
        I have not yet recd the boat your Excellen⟨cy⟩ was good enough to Order for the purpose of carrying the baggage belon[g]ing to self & family in case of a Sudden move—nor have we a forage Master forage nor any per⟨son⟩ to provide it on the Ground, tho’ absolutel⟨y⟩ necessary—Will your Excellency be so Oblig⟨ing⟩ as to direct Baron Stubens to furnish eac⟨h⟩ Officer belonging to the Light Corps with the Military Regulations there are but two or three in the Whole Corps.
        We have nothing new except that five transports or Other Vessels sail’d from King⟨s⟩ Ferry towards New York at 3. OClock yesterday. I am your Excellency’s most Obt Huml. Sert

          Anty Wayne


Title: General Orders, 5 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters New-Windsor Monday July 5th 1779.
            Parole Hispaniola—C. Signs Berlin. China.

          A Court of Inquiry to be held the day after tomorrow 9 ôclock at this place at the Tavern nearest Head-Quarters to inquire into some complaints exhibited against Colo. Armand by Colo. Jame[s] Vandeburgh of the Militia and Jonas Adams both Inhabitants of this State.
          The Court will report a State of facts to the Commander in Chief and their opinion of the merits of the complaints—The Court will consist of—Colonel Clark Lieut. Colo. Brooks. Lieut. Col. Fleury— Lieut. Colo. North Majr Des Epinier.

          After Orders.
          A brigade Quarter-Master, Forage Master and Conductor to be forthwith appointed to the corps of Light Infantry.
          The regimental Quarter Masters to the Infantry are to perform the duty of regimental Clothiers and are to draw and issue clothing in the same manner as is practised throughout the line—They are to transmit every month the company returns lodged with them, to the

regimental Pay-Masters with an account of their deliveries and are to take their receipts as vouchers for their justification.
          The regimental Pay-Masters will carry the clothing delivered to the Infantry of their regiments into the general regimental account and settle with the Cloathier accordingly.


Title: From George Washington to Conrad-Alexandre Gérard, 5 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gérard, Conrad-Alexandre

          Sir,
          New Windsor July 5th 79

        A report prevails here that Your Excellency intends shortly to take your departure for France. On a presumption of its truth, I take the liberty to request you will do me the Honor to take charge of the inclosed letter for the Marquis De la Fayette.
        I cannot but avail myself of this opportunity of assuring your Excellency of the high sense I entertain of your services to this country, and how much I should regret your absence, if I were not convinced that it will be employed to promote the mutual interests of France and America—With this consolation, I entreat you will accept the

homage of my sincerest wishes for your health and happiness; and that you may have a safe and agreeable passage and a happy sight of your friends. I have the honor to be With the highest respect & truest personal attachment Your Excellency’s Most Obedient & Most humble servant.


Title: From George Washington to Major Henry Lee, Jr., 5 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry Jr.

          Dr Sr
          [New Windsor] 5th July 1779

        Your letter of yesterday I recd this day—& have only to thank you for it and its inclosure—except that I wish you to pay the strictest attentn to the movements of the enemy below, lest they may undertake an excursion into the Jersey—by the way of ta[p]pan or elswhere; of this should it take place, I must request the earliest information—it may be well in order to accomplish this knowledge to employ country people for the purpose. Yrs &.

          G.W.


Title: From George Washington to the Pennsylvania Supreme Executive Council, 5 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Pennsylvania Supreme Executive Council

          Gentlemen,
          Head Quarters, New Windsor, 5th July, 1779.

        I am extremely concerned to find by several letters from General Sullivan that he is like to be disappointed in the independent companies which were to reinforce him from the State of Pensylvania. The consequences of this disappointment will certainly be very injurious. They may be more than injurious. For want of these he will be obliged to reduce his operating force to establish the necessary posts

of communication, too low, perhaps, to act with safety and effect, or he must leave his communication and convoys in the most precarious state. I have advised him rather to hazard something in the last respect than in the first, with an assurance that I would again solicit the aid of the State to strengthen the posts in his rear and assist in protecting his convoys. I must entreat in the most pressing terms that the Council will be pleased, without delay, to take effectual measures to have the number of men originally requested, sent forward. If the independent companies are not ready I beg their place may be supplied by Militia, to be relieved periodically. The Council are fully sensible of the importance of success in the present expedition and of the fatal mischiefs which would attend a defeat—we should perhaps lose an Army, and our frontiers would be desolated and deluged in Blood. A large reinforcement has been sent from Canada to join the savages. They are collecting their force for a vigorous opposition, and if they are successful their devastations will exceed any thing we have yet experienced. Their means will be increased and their cruelty will be emboldened by success and sharpened by revenge.
        It was not in my power to send a greater Continental force. I stretched this string as hard as it would possibly bear, and relied on the further aid of the States more immediately concerned. I hope I shall not be eventually disappointed. I flatter myself the Council will think my anxiety on this occasion natural and will excuse my importunity. With very great respect and esteem, I have the honor to be, Gentlemen, Your most obed[t] Servt

          Go. WASHINGTON.

          P.S. I shall be much obliged to the Council to Communicate what they will have it in their power to do, to General Sullivan that he may take his measures accordingly.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 5 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dr Sr
          Head Quarters New Windsor 5th July 1779

        I have received your letter of this day and have issued a General order for regulating the manner in which Cloathing is to be drawn for the Infantry—I have also directed a Briga⟨de⟩ Qr Master Forage Master & Conductor to be appointed. though I have not assigned the duty of Clothier to the first. If it should be found necessary it may be done hereafter. I have appointed the regimental Qr Masters to do the duty of Regimental Clothiers and to observe the same rules and forms which they are bound to observe.
        I agree perfectly with you as to the importance of dress and it is my intention that the Infantry shall have a pretty full supply—But after

all our circumstances must govern and it might have an ill effect to make too great a difference between the infantry and the troops of the line at large. I shall direct the Clothier to endeavour to complete you to a hat or a cap, one Blanket, two shirts, one p. of overalls & one p. of Shoes $ man & a small quantity of thread & needles—More than this cannot be afforded—I have not given an order on the returns you inclose, because the matter may be at once taken up in the established mode which is analogous to the practice in the line.
        I shall remind the Quarter Master Genl about sending you a Boat and direct the Commissary to keep you as well supplied as he can with rum. But the misfortune is our stock of this article is very scanty.
        I shall speak to Baron Steuben about the regulations—I believe he has not enough ready to give a full supply; but he may perhaps spare a few more than he has done—one to each field Officer and one to each Captain.
        I expect to have the pleasure of seeing you in the morning and am Dr Sir, with great regard Yr Most Obet, servant

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Thomas West, 5 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: West, Thomas

          Sir
          New Windsor July 5th 1779.

        Your letter of the 10th Ulto by the Post did not reach my hands till yesterday—Although I have received money on my own account in discharge of Bonds, Mortgages &ca at the present depreciated price

of it (by which, in some instances, I have not, in reality, got a shilling in the pound, though nominally the whole Sum) I can never consent to receive it as an Executor for others without a proper allowance unless the Laws of the State should compel it; of which you have the means of information more in your power than I have, & will act accordingly.
        I do not recollect enough of Colo. Thos Colvills Will to remember who were the residuary Legatees; I thought his relations in England had been so—but be this as it may, the case is not altered by it; & I think Mr Moody, before a conveyance is made him, should pay the real, not nominal value of the purchase—without this I shall never (unless matters appear to me in a different point of light than they do at present) agree to make Deeds untill compelled by a suit in chancery.
        Before I conclude let me entreat you to have the Accts of that Estate put in the best Order imaginable—and every Voucher, Paper, and memerandum which tends to explain, or can any ways illucidate matters, carefully selected; as I am very anxious, or shall be so the moment it is in my power, to have a final settlement of my Executorship of that Estate in order to obtain a discharge from the trust. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 6 July 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Danforths [Highlands, N.Y.] July 6th 1779

        I herewith Send a deserter from the 71st Regt British, nothing material has transpired below.
        Some parties of Militia who are detached by the State of New York to do duty for Six months at present in the vicinity of Crompond &c. are applying for a Supply of ammunition, are they and others under like engagements to be furnished from the Continental Magazines or not. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servant

          W. Heath


Title: General Orders, 7 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters New-Windsor Wednesday July 7th 1779.
          Parole Glocester—C. Signs Barton. Athens—


Title: To George Washington from John Armstrong, 7 July 1779
From: Armstrong, John
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Philada 7th July 1779

        Major Nichols having been Nominated by the Board of War as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Pennsylvania line, and afterward disappointed of that rank by the judgment of a Board of Officers, has I find for some time past been indulgeing in himself that Spirit of resignation but too general in our Army at present—His better reflexion however has led him to observe that Several other Officers in the Same or a Similar predicament have found themselves Obliged to Submit to the decision of that Board whereby his principal Objections appear to be alleviated & his natural wish is to return to the Service again excited—This temper encouraged by any advice I cou’d give, has produced the following resolution, that if agreeable to your Excellency to grant him a Brevet as Lt Coll or any other mode whereby that rank may be reserved to him, he will chearfully Serve as a Volunteer or in any other way your Excellency may think proper to point out, until the next vacancy—Nothing but the importance of the present labouring Service wou’d justify my asking a line in answer to the above, whereby Major Nichols may be determined—nor my farther hint for One to Captn Kersley at Wioming, knowing as I do the numerous & heavy avocations of the present hour. I heard a good discourse the other day on these words—Be not weary in Well-doing for in due time you Shall reap, if ye faint not. I am Your Excellencys unfeigned friend And humbl. Servt

          John Armstrong

          This afternoon came Genl Lincolns dispatches into Congress which you will Soon enough See for all they contain—The best I can at present infer from them is that Charlestown is in no immediate danger— and the Worst, that the Enemy may get away if they please.

            J:A:


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 7 July 1779
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Providence [R.I.] 7th July 1779.

        I had the Honour to receive Your Excellency’s Letters of the 27th & 30th Ulto, by One and the same Express. In Obedience to Your Commands contained in the Letter of the 30th, I immediately Ordered General Glover with his Brigade to March for Fish-Kill. They left Providence this Morning Early. Inclosed are the Directions I have given General Glover, with the Route by which he is to March Annexed. This Moment I have intelligence, which (though not Official,) I think Authentic; that Two Thousand of the Enemy Landed On Monday, and were advanced within One Mile of New Haven. That Your Excellency had Crossed to The West Side of Hudson’s River, and Advanced below King’s-Ferry. That Sir Harry Clinton had entirely Abandoned His late Acquisitions, and retired to New York These Accounts, so different from what was Expected, renders it necessary I should Order this Express to Make the Utmost Dispatch to Your Head Quarters, that You may immediately Send such further Orders as you think proper to General Glover. I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s Most Obedt servt

          H.G.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 7 July 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Danforths [Highlands, N.Y.] July 7th 1779

        I herewith Send a prisoner of war taken on the 2nd Instant near North Castle.
        General Duportail has not yet been here to lay out the works, The fatigue men were held in readiness yesterday. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servt

          W. Heath

          P.S. 8 oClock A.M. Smith Gammon a deserter who has just come in attends the Prisoner of war.


Title: To George Washington from George Measam, 7 July 1779
From: Measam, George
To: Washington, George

          Sir,
          Springfield [Mass.] July 7th 1779

        In my Letter of yesterday I forgot to mention to your Excellency, that hearing by Accident there was a Commissary of Hides appointed

at Albany, to Manufacter and exchange the public Leather into Shoes; I wrote him, to be informed how he was ordered to dispose of the shoes, and if he could furnish any for the Army under your immediate Command; to which he answered, that he has supplied the troops of that Department from time to time with Shoes & Boots, upon the General’s order; what General he means I cannot tell, but suppose he means Brig: General Clinton. And that he has furnished for the Expedition to the Westward upon General Clinton’s order 1998 pairs of Shoes. And that he has given orderes to have 500 pairs (which he had making upon Connecticut River) delivered to the order of Col. Hazen. By the tenor of his Letter it appears to me, that he has no regular orders given him how to dispose of the shoes. All which I judge essential your Excellency should be informed of, that an equal distribution of the Shoes may be ordered. He further informs me he expects more Shoes soon in exchange for Hides, from various parts of the Country, some as far up this river as Haverill, or Haverhill. I should be glad of a Line from your Excellency in consequence of this; it appears to me to be a Channe[l] by which the Army m[ay] have good supply under proper orders and regulation. I have the Honor to be, Sir, Your Excellency’s Most obedient and Most Humble Servt

          Geo. Measam

          P.S. I this day hear that the Enemy have landed in Connecticut and now possess the Town of New Haven. Should this place be their object, the most care possible shall be taken of the Stores under my direction; but I don’t learn yet, by any of their movemts it appears likely The reports of their Strength is various, from 3 to 7 thousand.


Title: To George Washington from Philip Schuyler, 7 July 1779
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

          Dear Sir
          Albany [N.Y.] July 7th 1779

        Two days ago Colonel Louis the Indian returned from Canada by the way of Oneida, he left the neighborhood of Caghnawaga In the beginning of June, as a reward was offered In Canada for apprehending him he did not dare to venture Amongst the Inhabitants. his Caghnawaga friends assured him that no troops had been sent up the river St Laurence this Spring that no preparations were making for any force to come thro lake Champlain; that Brant had not been able to prevail on any of the Caghnawagas to go to the westward, that he understood a few of the Cannossedago Indians would Accompany him. That a thousand Otawas & Chippeways from Lake Huron were to Join the Senecas as Brandt give out and to desolate the frontiers.
        Yesterday Colonel V. Schaick gave me a letter from Butler and Copy of a Speech from Governor Haldimand to the Oneidas which I have the honor to Inclose. I am Dr Sir with the most perfect Esteem and Affection Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servant

          Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 7 July 1779
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Lebanon [Conn.] July 7th 1779

        On the evening of the last Sabbath about seventy Sail of the Enemys Ships, transports &a anchored off against New Haven, and about six oClock next Morning landed a Number of Troops conjectured from two to four thousand a few miles West of the Town, and immediately proceeded towards the Town. this Descent was so sudden that but little force could be collected to oppose them in their progress, though every thing was done which could be expected from the few inhabitants of that place, who opposed them in a narrow defile, turned their Course, headed the March and soon entered the Town of which they are in possession.
        The Militia of the Country are collecting. many had Assembled when the express set off. we hope at least they will check their progress into the Country—It is now the beginning of Harvest. The design of the Enemy no doubt is to alarm this State as to prevent its being secured, and to destroy as much of it as they can—No season of the Year could throw us into so great a distress—We are uncertain at present Whether the Enemy mean to make any stand at New Haven or only plunder, destroy and make off—though we rather think the latter.
        We are informed that General Glover with his Brigade are under orders, and on their March to join the Main Army. We have requested he would make his Route through this Country not far from the course of New Haven which may at least have an effect on the Enemy, and produce an early evacuation of that place. We Wish and hope for your approbation, as it cannot make a Days delay of his Arrival at Fishkill.
        We have farther to apply to Your Excellency that General Glover with his Brigade be permitted to give their Assistance until the Enemy be dislodged from New Haven, which with his Aid, we trust, would soon be done. An Officer of General Glovers experience, may be of essential service—We hope for a speedy Answer as General Glover may be too far on his way before Your Excellencys Orders may meet him. I am with Esteem & Regard Your Excellencys Obedient humble sevt

          Jon. Trumbull


Title: General Orders, 8 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

            Head-Quarters New-Windsor Thursday July 8th 1779.
            Parole Massachusetts—C. Signs Northfield. Poland.

          General Muhlenberg’s brigade to relieve the 1st Pennsylvania at the Forest of Deane tomorrow morning.
          Major Oliver of the Massachusetts line is appointed Major of Brigade to General Nixon’s brigade and is to be accordingly respected and obeyed.
          For all deficiencies in the corps of Light-Infantry occasioned by sickness, deaths, desertions &c.—the officers commanding battalions

are to make out returns of the non-commissioned officers and privates wanting to complete, have them indorsed by the commanding officer of the Light Infantry, and send them to the commanding officers of the brigades from which the deficiencies are to be made up, who upon the receipt of such returns will cause the numbers wanting, to be immediately sent on to join said corps.
          The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to come to the following resolutions.

          In Congress 22nd June 1779.
          Resolved, That Majors, in consideration of their extra duty as Brigade Inspectors and Majors of Brigade receive forty four dollars pr month in addition to their regimental Pay.
          Resolved—That Congress entertain a grateful sense of the virtues and services of those faithful and zealous soldiers who at an early period engaged in the Armies of these States during the War, and to encourage a continuance of their exertions, and as far as circumstances admit to put them on a footing in pecuniary matters with other soldiers, General Washington be impowered to order a gratuity of one hundred dollars each to be paid to the men so inlisted during the war. This gratuity to be paid only to such soldiers as inlisted before the 23rd day of January 1779.
          Resolved—That the Adjutant General for the time being be also Assistant Inspector General.
          In order to determine what soldiers are intitled to the above gratuity, the Commander in Chief directs the Commissary General of Musters to make a return from the Muster-Rolls as speedily as possible at Head Quarters of all the men now in the Army who were inlisted during the war previous to the said 23rd day of January 1779—This return to be regimentally digested and to specify the men’s names.
          At a Brigade General Court-Martial in the 1st Pennsylvania brigade July 5th—Colonel Humpton President—Neil Megonigle soldier in the 7th Pennsylvania regiment was tried for, “Desertion from his guard at an advanced post proceeding towards the enemy and opposing the party who took him.[”]
          The Court are of opinion the prisoner is guilty of the several charges exhibited against him and in consequence of his former bad character and his late conduct do unanimously sentence him to suffer death.
          The Commander in Chief confirms the sentence & orders said Megonigle to be hung next saturday 10 ô clock in the forenoon at such place as Genl Putnam shall direct.
          A board of General Officers of the right wing to sit tomorrow morning ten ô clock at Smith’s-Clove to resume the consideration began at

Middle-Brook of the relative rank of the Field-Officers of the Artillery not before decided & of the rank of the respective battalions.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General John Glover, 8 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Glover, John

          Sir
          Head Qrs New Windsor July 8 1779

        I have received intelligence that a Body of the Enemy embarked on the 4th Instant at Frog’s neck and have proceeded Eastward up the Sound. It is uncertain what their object is; but as they may intend to make a sudden incursion into the State of Connecticut, or to commit some ravages on their Coast, it is my wish that you direct your march by some rout not far from the Sound, that you may with the greater facility form a junction with the Militia in case they make a

descent, and take measures with them for counteracting & repelling their attempts. The sooner you direct your march near the Sound, the greater protection you will afford. I am Sir, with great regard Yr Most Obedt sevt

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Noah M. Littlefield, 8 July 1779
From: Littlefield, Noah M.
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          West Point 8th July 1779

        I would begg leave to signify my dissatisfaction with regard to the rank of the Officers of the Massachusetts line which was setled by a Committe of Field Officers some time past; being absent at the time when the pretentions were given in and as the matter was settled by those who were Judges in their own cases and not having my pretentions rightly represented: and whereas there are a number of Officers who are dissatisfied with their rank would pray your Excellency that a committee be appointed to make a final settlement of those disputes which appear to be reasonable, that Justice may be done to each Individual—as I have been a sufferer by an unprecedented promotion in the Regiment to which I belong, before the present mode of promotion of rising by states was adopted by Congress; having had the command of the Regt from the time that my Colo. was kill’d at Hubbertown to the Capturing the British Army; immediately after which Generall Gates was pleas’d to give the command of the Regiment to Colonell Tupper which promotions had ’till that time been made by Regiments—but what more immediately concerns me is my rank in the present Arrangement having been placed below a number of Lieut. Colonels who were Majors when I was a Lieut. Colo. at Cambridge in the two months service, and was Commission’d again as a Lieut. Colo. in the Continental service at the same time when those refer’d to Receiv’d theirs.
        Was appointed Captain of a minute company in Aprill 1775 was appointed a Captain on the sea coast the ensuing year was Capt. of a Millitia company before Hostillities commenc’d. I am with the utmost Respect your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servant

          Noah M: Littlefield Lt Colo.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel William Palfrey, 8 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Palfrey, William

          Sir,
          Head Qrs N: Windsor July 8, 1779

        In a letter I have lately received from Gen: Scott, he complains of a want of money for the Troops under his command, a part of whom are old men belonging to the Regiment here, who were reînlisted & furloughed, & have been a considerable time without Pay. I am to request you to take such measures, as you may think proper, to have these Troops immediately paid. It is of consequence that there should be no delay in this matter, as it may detain a Reînforcement, which may be Very essential to our Southern affairs. I am with great regard Sir yours &c.

          G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Charles Scott, 8 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Scott, Charles

          Dr Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor July 8th 1779

        I have received your letter of the 20th of June—I can only repeat my chagrin that so much delay attends the preparations for the troops under your command—Such a reinforcement to the Southern army at this instant might give a decisive turn to the fate of affairs in that quarter—The want of it may perhaps involve very affecting consequences—I rely upon your utmost activity to get the troops on as fast as possible.
        I do not recollect precisely what has been done with respect to Surgeons—I believe one or more has been detached from the troops here; but I shall immediately speak to the Surgeon General and direct him to have you supplied—I have also written to the Pay Master General requesting him to take proper measures to have you provided with money.
        Nothing of consequence has lately taken place in this quarter. I am with the greatest regard Dr Sir Your most Obedt servt.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel William Washington, 8 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, William

          Dr Sir
          Head Qrs New Windsor July the 8 1779

        On saturday I received Your Letter of the 30th of June. I am much concerned to find that your Regiment was in so low a condition as not to admit a larger Detachment’s going to the Southward. As the Remainder of the Horses with you—and those you are to procure from Mr Mitchell are unfit to take the field yet, You may as well remain at Wilmington as any where else for the purpose of recruiting & training them. At the same time I must request your greatest attention to those points—and that you will inform the Board of War of your progress and transmit them returns of your strength—that they may know how to direct your future conduct. The enormous expence attending the Horse and your own disposition will, I am

persuaded, lead you to every exertion to fit Yours for service as soon as possible.
        I received the Stockings, which Mrs Logan has been so polite as to send me. I am Dr sir Yr Most Obedt sert

          G. Washington


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

          Head-Quarters New-Windsor Friday July 9th 1779.
          Parole Montezuma—C. Signs Madrass Mexico.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 9 July 1779
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          New Windsor July 9th 177⟨9⟩

        I find in yesterdays orders I am directed to attend the Board of General Offic⟨ers⟩ for settleing the Rank of the Line of Artillery.
        your Excellency must be sensible th⟨at⟩ the duties of the quarter masters Department are a sufficent employment for the most active mind. I consider my being put up⟨on⟩ these Boards therefore a public injury; bu⟨t⟩ as I seem to be excluded in the present arra⟨nge⟩ment

from the honors of the Line, to be obl⟨igd⟩ to do the druggeries of it on one hand, with out partaking of the advantages on the othe⟨r⟩ is a personal grieveance.
        There is no person more averse to complaining of either injuries or difficulties than I am; but I could wish to be excusd from this kind of business; unless the nature of it, and the circumstances of the Army forbid it; in which case, I shall chearfully do double duty, however fatigueing it may be to my self, or inconvenient to my other affairs. I am with the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient humble Sert

          Nath. Greene Q.M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 9 July 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Mandeville’s [Dutchess County, N.Y.]July 9. 1779

        I do myself the honor to forward, to be disposed of as your Excellency may direct, Fra[nci]s Wynn & Jeremiah Olnes prisoners of war taken at Pound ridge the 2d Instant & Sent here the last Evening. Also take the Liberty to enclose a Complaint made against Lt Colo. Loring with the opinion of a Court of enquiry thereon. beg to be informed whether it is your Excellencys pleasure to refer the matter to a General Court martial of the line, or that a General Court martial be appointed in the Division. If the lat[t]er, reques⟨t⟩ that the Complaint & opinion of the Court of enquiry may be Sent back.
        Cap. Flowers of Colo. Greatons Regt is importuning a furlough to Visit his Family who are Sick. Apprehending that it would be disagreable to your Excellency to furlough any officers at this time I have endeavor’d to disuad⟨e⟩ him, but, he informs me that unless he can

obtain a furlough he Shall apply for leave to resign his Commission. in this view of the matter I wish your Excellencys direction.
        Gen: duPortail has not yet been over to lay out the works. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedt Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Adam Hubley, Jr., 9 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Hubley, Adam Jr.

          Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor July 9th 1779

        I have received your letter of the 23d—I am sorry for the uneasiness which happened in the regiment on Capt. Kearsly’s account, but as he really did resign he cannot be reintroduced contrary to the general sense of the other officers—At the same time, I should have been happy his resignation had not taken place, as he is certainly a valuable Officer and his quitting the army will be a real loss to the service—I have written the inclosed to him on the subject, which I request you to deliver. I am with great regard Sir Your most Obedt servant


Title: From George Washington to John Jay, 9 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Jay, John

          Sir
          New Windsor July the 9th 1779

        On the 1st Instant I transmitted Your Excellency a copy of a Letter I had received from General Gates, advising that a number of Vessels with Troops, had left Newport and directed their course up the Sound. I had previously on the 27th from the intelligence obtained through different Channels that the Enemy intended to draw a part or the whole of their Troops from Rhode Island, requested him in case of the former event, to detach a proportionable part of his force to this Army—and of the latter to march himself with the whole of it. Upon receiving General Gates’s Letter of the 25th which ascertained the sailing of part of the Enemy’s force from Newport I wrote him, if he had not detached any troops from his command in consequence of my requisition of the 27th and if the detachment of the Enemy which he had mentioned to have sailed, had not returned or were not acting in his vicinity, to dispatch Glover’s Brigade. I was induced to these measures from a view of the comparative strength of the two Armies in this Quarter—from the precarious if not dangerous situation Our’s would be in, if the Enemy’s should be reinforced, without an equal augmentation on our part—from a strong probability that they had some serious attempt in contemplation this way; & from the little prospect after such a diminution of their force there, of their acting otherwise than defensively in that Quarter—or of General Gates’s being able to act offensively against them—if no part of his command were withdrawn. The detachment from Newport disembarked at White Stone and according to some accounts came as far as Hellgate.
        On the 4th the Enemy embarked a body of Troops at Frog’s neck on the sound, consisting from the best information, of Grenadiers, light Infantry and a few Hessians amounting to about Eighteen Hundred— tho some accounts make them more, and proceeded Eastward. I did not receive intelligence of this, till the afternoon of the 7th having been absent from Head Quarters from the morning of the preceding day on a visit to our outposts below—and those lately established by the Enemy, when, from an apprehension that they might intend a sudden incursion into the State of Connecticut, I dispatched an Express to His Excellency Governor Trumbull—and to the Commanding Officer of Glover’s Brigade, advising them of the movement, and directing the latter to proceed by some rout not far from the Sound, that he might with greater facility form a junction with the Militia and co-operate with them in case the Enemy should make a descent. I have not yet heard what is the Object of this party; but we have it by

report, that they have landed at New Haven, and most probably for the purposes of plundering and perhaps burning, as these appear to form a considerable part of their present system of War. Besides plundering and burning, another object may be to distress and injure the harvest, by alarming the Militia and calling them out for the protection of the Coast.
        Inclosed Your Excellency will receive a Copy of a Letter from Colo. Sheldon to General Heath, containing an account of a skirmish between a detachment of his Regiment and a body of the Enemy’s Horse on the morning of the 2d near Bedford—and of their destroying a meeting and two or three dwelling Houses.
        The main body of the Enemy at present is at and in the vicinity of Philipsburg. At Verplanks and Stoney points, they have sufficient Garrisons to occupy the Works, which appear from a near view, to be very strong, particularly those on the latter. I am exceedingly mortified that the circumstances of the Army in respect to numbers, oblige me to a mere defensive plan, and will not suffer me to pursue such measures as the public good may seem to require and the public expectation to demand. I hope it will be remembered that the Army has been diminished by the expiration of the term of service of a number of the Troops—that it is daily lessening from the same cause—that a considerable part of our remaining force is detached upon the Western expedition—and that scarcely a single man has taken the field from any of the States except from New York and Virginia—and that these are employed in Other Quarters.
        I have been honoured with your Excellency’s Letter of the 30th Ulto—and with the several papers to which it refers. The situation of Affairs will not permit Doctor Shippen’s trial to be entered upon for som⟨e⟩ time. General Arnold’s will of course precede it, which has hitherto been and is yet necessarily suspended.
        From the small exertions that have been made I have but little hopes, that the Batallions will be filled or even made respectable, tho it is a matter infinitely interesting. The business unhappily has been taken up so late by the particular States, that the Levies or Recruits which may be raised, will not be of half the service they ought. Instead of being in the Field at the opening of the Campaign—they will not join till towards the close or at least before the middle of it—and the greater part of their time will be in Winter Quarters. I have the Honor to be with great respect & esteem Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt sert

          Go: Washington

          P.S. Since writing the above I have received a Letter from Gover Trumbull respecting the Detachment of the Enemy which went up

the Sound, of which I inclose your Excellency a Copy. I have also heard that the Enemy reimbarked at New Haven—and have relanded at Fairfield. I have directed Glover’s Brigade to halt in Connecticut at this interesting crisis till farther Orders.


Title: To George Washington from John Jay, 9 July 1779
From: Jay, John
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Philadelphia 9th July 1779

        I have been honored with your Excellency’s favors of the 27th Ult. & 1st Inst. They were committed. Peter Wickoff Esqr. has been appointed Cloathier General, and will I hope soon enter on the Execution of that Office.
        Herewith enclosed is a Copy of a Letter from Governor Rutledge to the Delegates of South Carolina of the 9th Ult.—of one from

General Lincoln to Congress of the 4th Ult.—And of an Act of Congress of the 6th Inst. making further Provision for Sub & Brigade Inspectors. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect & Esteem Your Excellencys most obedt Servant

          John Jay Presidt


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Kearsley, 9 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Kearsley, Samuel

          Sir
          Head Quarters New Windsor July 9th 1779

        I have successively received your two favours of the 4th and 30th of June the former not till the 5th instant.
        I am sorry to inform you that though I most sincerely wish your resignation had not taken place it will now be impossible to

reìntroduce you into the Regiment—I have received a letter from Col. Hubley in which he represents, that in consequence of your letter to Major Prowell of the 10th of May, an arrangement had been made in the Regiment on the principle of your having left it, and that a general uneasiness prevails among the officers at the apprehension of your readmission. Immediately on the receipt of your letter to me of the 8th, your resignation was entered as is customary and you were considered as out of the service—Nor is it in my power at present to alter the case, notwithstanding the favourable opinion I entertain of you and the regret which your determination to leave the service occasioned me. I am with regard Sir Your most Obedt servant.


Title: To George Washington from Norwalk, Conn., Officials and Lieutenant Colonel Stephen St. John, 9 July 1779
From: Officials of Norwalk, Connecticut,St. John, Stephen
To: Washington, George

          May it please your Excellency
          Friday Norwalk [Conn.]July 9th 1779

        The Exigency of our Affairs will be a sufficient Apology for this Address & your Excellency’s Readiness to releive the distressed Inhabitants of the United States gives us Hopes that it may not be in vain— Our Situation is truly alarming & distressing A large Fleet in the Sound with three or four thousand Troops have this Week plundered New-Haven & burned their Stores & burned Part of East-Haven The Day before Yesterday they entered Fairfield & in the most inhuman & wanton Manner they burned almost the whole of that elegant Town

together with a great Part of the Parish of Green’s farms not sparing the sumptuous Houses dedicated to the Worship of God & gave out that Yesterday we should share the same Fate & we beleive they would have executed their Threats but the Wind would not permit them & this Morning they have come to in Huntington Bay nearly opposite This Morning Col. Hooker Commandant at Horseneck sent Express that the Enemy were at Rye-Neck marching this Way that they were six thousand Foot & one thousand Horse & we have no Force any Way adequate to oppose them We have sent to his Excellency the Governor but there has not been Time for an Answer The Militia are collecting but will by no Means be sufficient to oppose such an Army We must therefore suffer our Houses & Substance to be plundered & burned unless we can obtain Assistance from your Excellency This County has afforded great Quantities of Provision for the Continental Army & now We have a fine Harvest but cannot gather it should the Enemy succeed it will be an Accession to them we entreat your Excellency to commiserate our distressed Condition & afford us such Relief as Your Excellency shall judge consistent with the general Good—In Behalf of the Inhabitants your Excellency’s most obedient & humbl. Servants

Thaddeus Betts Justice of Peace

Stephen St john, Lt Coll

Samuel Gruman
  }
Selectmen

Matthew Marvine

David Comstock

Nathl Benedict


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 9 July 1779
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

          Dr General
          Redding [Conn.] 9th July 1 o’Clock P.M.

        I have this Moment arrivd here after a Tour of Sixty Miles Since 11 o’Clock last Night: The few Militia at New Haven behavd exceeding well, repulsd the Enemy several Times & considerable Loss was sufferd by the Enemy; they burnt a Number of Houses at East & West Haven & plunderd New Haven: they have destroyd Fairfield, almost every House: the Abuses of Women, Children & Old Men are unparaleld: they imbarkd from Fairfield Yesterday and pasd over Sound but there’s Reason to think they design an Attack on Norwalk & the other Towns.
        Genl Wolcott has recd an Express informing that about 4000 of the Enemy are in Possession of Horseneck & marching Eastward. I have wrote to Col. Moyland & the Small Number of Infantry desiring them to march to the Coast, I hope it will be agreable to yr Excellency’s Intentions I hear Nothing of Glover’s Brigade: is it possible to send 1000 Conl Troops? they will serve to Steady the Militia & render

them a formidable Body: I will write you from Norwalk where I shall be this Night. I am yr Excellency’s Obedt Servt

          Samuel H. Parsons


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Reed, 9 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Joseph

          sir
          New Windsor July 9th 1779

        Doctor Hodges will have the Honor of presenting this to Your Excellency. The Inclosed, a Copy of a Letter from Governor Trumbull, will inform you of the business he is upon. It is important & interesting and I am persuaded the Doctor will meet with every assistence that you can give him in the prosecution of it. I have the Honor &c.


Title: From George Washington to Philip Schuyler, 9–11 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

          Dear Sir
          New Windsor July the 9th[-11] 1779

        On sunday I had the pleasure to receive Your favors of the 18th 19th & 30th Instant.
        In the spring 1778 Congress determined on a half pay establishment for seven years in favor of those Officers who remain in service till the end of the War. This is the only one that exists at present.

        I am exceedingly obliged by the Canada intelligence, which I have transmitted to Genl Sullivan. I have nothing in particular in charge for the person returning. Your own good judgement will direct his inquiries & those of your friend to every material and interesting point.
        Bettis in whose favour you interested yourself, was pardoned on the 4th Instant, the Anniversary of our Independence, with several Other prisoners in the same unhappy predicament.
        The intelligence we had from Carolina—though through various channels and in such a way as to give it an air of authenticity—was destitute, I believe, of any foundation. However, I am happy in thinking that the Enemy as yet have done nothing to effect.
        We have accounts that a Vessel has lately arrived at Boston, the Captain of which says he parted with Ten Men of War off the Western Islands, going to reinforce Count D’Estaing. It is farther said in the philadelphia papers that the Court of Spain has acceded to our independence—and I believe there have been some private Letters received there from the Havannah announcing this. I hope it is true.
        The Enemy have fallen down from Stoney and Verplanks points, leaving strong Garrisons at both. They have sent a Detachment into the sound and from the advices received to day, they have landed at New Haven. It would seem that they are determined to pursue the predatory plan of War threatned by the Commissioners—and sanctioned by parliament on a subsequent discussion of the matter.
        Your promise of a visit gives me great pleasure—and you will permit me to assure You, that it will make me happy. I parted with Mrs Washington when we marchd for the Clove and she returned to Virginia. She also would have been very happy to have seen You. I am Dr sir with sentiments of the most perfect regard & respect Yr Most Obedt Hbl. servt

          G. Washington

            P.S. July 11

          The Enemy have plundered New Haven—burnt some Houses there—part of East Haven—and on the 7th almost the Whole of Fairfield and a great part of the parish of Greens farms, according to the advices I have received.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 9 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

          Dr Sir
          Head Quarters New Windsor July 9 1779

        I am just honored with Your Excellency’s letter of the 7th. I had the pleasure of writing to you the same day inclosing a letter for General Glover, or Officer commanding his brigade, in which I was so happy as to have anticipated your wishes. In addition to that, Genl Parsons set out yesterday for Connecticut at my request—I was induced to this from a supposition that his knowlege of The Country and the inhabitants would render him useful. It is most probable the enemy’s incursion will be temporary; but as it may be repeated in some other part & as the present season is particularly interesting, it will be agreeable to me that Glovers brigade should halt for a little time in your state at such place as may be thought best calculated to give cover to the part of the country most exposed. I inclose a letter to General Glover for that purpose. With the greatest respect & esteem I have the honor to be Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt serv.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 9 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dr Sir,
          New Windsor July 9th 1779

        While the enemy are making excursions to distress the country it has a very disagreeable aspect to remain in a state of inactivity on our part—The reputation of the army and the good of the service seem to

exact some attempt from it—The importance of Stoney Point to the enemy makes it infinitely desireable that could be the object—The works are formidable; but perhaps on a fuller examination they may be found accessible—A deserter yesterday informed me there was a sandy beach on the South side running along the flank of the works and only obstructed by a slight abbatis which might afford an easy and safe approach to a body of troops. I wish you to take every step in your power to ascertain this and to gain a more accurate knowlege of the position in general particularly on the flanks and in the rear. Would it answer to send in a trusty intelligent fellow from you in character of a deserter, on some plan that might enable him to return with expedition?
        I beg you to inform yourself all you can, and to give me your opinion of the practicability of an attempt upon this post. If it is undertaken I should conceive it ought to be done by way of surprise in the night.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 9 July 1779
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Fort Mont[gomer]y [N.Y.] 9th July 1779

        Enclosed is a Letter from Genl St Clair who has sent Lieut. Butler (a Brother of the Colonels[)] to take the place of Lieut. Gibbons in the Infantry—I believe them both deserving Spirited young Officers—but can’t think myself justified in the Exchange of any Officer belonging to the Corps—least it shou’d lay a pre[ce]dent for Other exchanges from every Division and every Regement in the Army—at any time they might think proper to propose it—I shall therefore wait your Excellencies Orders on this & every similar Occation—Lieut. Gibbons seems much hurt at the proposi[ti]on altho’ Delecately Mentioned by Genl St Clair.
        I cou’d wish to draw the Light Corps together in order to Manoeuvre them & to give the Officers & men an Opportunity to mix &

become acquainted with each Other—as also to Introduce a Similarity of dress & duty.
        perhaps this may be done whilst the Enemy are at so great a Distance without any disadvantage—for before they could possibly Effect a Landing the Light Corps could be detatched to the posts they at present Occupy if thought the most proper position.
        I had a person up from the Vicinity of Stony point last evening every thing Remains as you saw them except that the Enemy have not sent a Single party out since we were there.
        I have a Small party of Rifle men hovering about them who have orders to keep them in Constant alarm—with a promise of 20 Dollars bounty for each Deserter from our army that they take up I have given the most pointed Orders to guard against a Surprize & not to trust any man in that Country. I am your Excellencies Most Obt Hume Sert

          Anty Wayne


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

          Head-Quarters New-Windsor Saturday July 10th 1779.
          Parole Petersburgh—C. Signs Persia Paris—

        A General Court Martial to sit next Monday ten ô clock in the forenoon at West-Point for the trial of Lieutenant Colonel Loring & such others as may come before them.
        Colonel Michael Jackson will preside.
        At a brigade General Court-Martial held by order of General Woodford July 2nd—Major Clarke President, John Develin of the 8th Virginia regiment was tried for, “Desertion and attempting to go to the enemy,” found guilty & sentenced to suffer death—two thirds of the Court concuring therein.
        The Commander in Chief confirms the sentence but as it was previous to the Pardon of the 4th instant, the Prisoner is comprehended in the benefit of it.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 10 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

          Sir.
          Head Quarters New Windsor 10th Ju[ly] 1779.

        Three hours ago I received your favour of the 7th—I cannot conceive how my letter of the 27th was so long detained—immediately on closing it, it was sent to Colo. Hay to forward it.
        Your information respecting the movements in this quarter was erronious—Previous to my last the enemy after strongly fortifying the two posts of Stoney Point and Verplank’s, and leaving sufficient garrisons for their defence, had fallen down the River to Phillips’s. where and in the vicinity their principal force still lies—Our Army preserves nearly its former position—On hearing that the enemy had made a detachment up the sound probably with a design to make incursions into Connecticut—I wrote to the Governor informing him of the directions given for the march of Glovers Brigade that he might call for its assistance if necessary. I have since directed the Brigade to halt a while in that State, to give some cover to the coast, and prevent, as much as possible, the interruption of the inhabitants at the present interesting season. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

          Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 10 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dr Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor July 10th 1779

        I have received repeated intelligence this morning that besides the detachment which went from New Haven, the enemy in considerable force was moving by land towards horse neck, with a good many pieces of Artillery and a large number of Waggons. My accounts are that the first mentioned detachment had left New Haven, gone to Fairfield burnt the Town reimbarked and were off Norwalk, where ’tis imagined they will land, destroy that place and the two bodies join to ravage and distress the Country—The Militia are said to be assembling with great spirit; but in order to keep up that spirit and give efficacy to their exertions, I have determined to send the two Connecticut Brigades that way, under your command. You will therefore be pleased to march tomorrow morning as early as possible, in the first instance towards crompond, thence by way of Bedford or Ridgefield as circumstances may point out, regulating your movements by those of the enemy giveing all the aid and countenance you can consistent with prudence, to the Militia to repress their depredations—and keeping in view your communication with the Forts, should the enemy return to make a movement against them—The present may only be a diversion of our force the better to facilitate an enterprise on this river—To guard against the success of such a plan you will take every measure in your power to watch the enemy’s motions, and will so far make yours correspond as to be in measure with them in this quarter; so far as it may be practicable.
        You will direct Col. Moylan with the Cavalry and infantry under his command to join you at such place as you may think proper.
        You will open a correspondence with Genl Parsons whose information of the movements of the Militia will enable you the better to regulate yours—and you will be pleased to advise me dayly of your progress the progress of the enemy and of every material occurrence.

        General Glover marched the 7th Inst. from Providence to join this army. The inclosed will show you the last orders given him. This is on a supposition the enemy would have returned from their excursion— But if their ravages should continue, you will give such orders to him, to join you, or otherwise, as circumstances may require. I am with great regard Dr Sir Yr Most Obet, servant

          Go: Washington

          P.s. Be pleased to forward the enclosed to Genl Parsons.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 10 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dear Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor July 10 1779

        In mine of this day, I omitted mentioning to you, that it is my wish the light companies of the two brigades should be left behind for a few days and ’till further orders—This you will be pleased to have done that they may be properly arranged. I am Sir Your most Obedt serv.

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 10 July 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Highlands Mandavilles [Dutchess County, N.Y.]July 10th 1779

        I do myself the Honor to enclose the Sentiments of the Officers of the three Brigades on this Side the river with respect to the regulateing the prices of the necessaries of Life in Camp as expressed by their Committee appointed by the respective Brigades—for that purpose.
        From my present particular Situation I wish to Obtain the earliest notice of the movements of the Enemy on the River both as it respects my self and the Public cause, to facilitate this I would request that Two of the four Guards Boats, at present employed, and which are manned by Crews from the Division I have the honor to Command, may be kept on this Side the River and under my direction. This was proposed yesterday by Capt. Buchannan of his own motion, Major General McDougall replied that it was your Excellencys orders that the Boats should be kept at the Point If you should not think proper to have Two of the four Boats row from and make their reports of discoveries here I presume your Excellency will not disapprove of my

endeavouring to obtain other Boats for this purpose and ordering over the Boatmen of my own Division to man them when the Sole Object is that of obtaining the earliest & best Intelligence.
        There are a number of Prisoners in the provost at Fish Kill whose Situation is very disagreable Some of them are Considered as Spies, will your Excellency please to order them tryed by a General Court Martial of the Line, or of the Division—or delivered over to the authority of the State I beleive the Crimes are in the Hands of John Strang Esqr. Dy Judge advocate I am informed that Two of them vizt Joseph Nickerson and James Halsted are notorious villains; and that the public are very desireous to have them Speedily brought to tryal. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Juan de Miralles, 10 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Miralles, Don Juan de

          Sir
          New Windsor July 10th 1779.

        A succession of military events has prevented my having the honor of making my acknowlegements sooner for your two letters of the 22d and 25th of May accompanied by your agreeable present to Mrs Washington and myself—Such of the articles as we have made trial of are very fine—the glass vessels are peculiarly elegant and the whole are rendered still more acceptable by the cordial and affectionate sentiments of the giver.
        The terms in which you mention the testimonies of my esteem, which your short stay in camp gave me an opportunity of showing, renews the pleasure I felt in manifesting the sense I entertained of the favour of your company. I only desire occasions of giving you other proofs more decisive.
        Mrs Washington left me on her return to Virginia about the time the army began its march this way. She charged me to present you her most respectful compliments and warmest thanks for this new instance of your politeness. In this she was joined by Mrs Greene. With my best wishes for your happiness and with the greatest esteem & regard I have the honor to be Sir Your Most Obedt & most huml ser.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 10 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Parsons, Samuel Holden

          ⟨Dear⟩ Sir
          Hd Qrs [New Windsor] July 10: 1779

        I have received Your favors of the 9th from Luddington’s & Redding. It gives me ⟨g⟩reat concern to hear of the ravages of the Enemy. The conduct of the Militia at New Haven does them the highest honor. I had heard of it before thro several channels. I have written to Genl Heath to move with ⟨th⟩e Two Connecticut Brigades towards

the Enemy, ⟨b⟩y the way of Crompond in the first instance ⟨a⟩nd from thence to Rid[g]efield & Bedford, ⟨w⟩hich I hope will animate the Militia ⟨a⟩nd in some measure prevent the Enemy’s ⟨i⟩ncursions. I am &c.

          G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 10 July 1779
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Norwalk [Conn.] 10th July 1779

        I arrived here last night and find the fleet which transport the British Incendiaries is returned to Huntington Bay opposite to this Town where they now are. The Troops employd for these purposes are, by the best information I can get, about 2,000 commanded by Governor Tryon. At New Haven the few Militia gathered in season to oppose the enemys progress, behavd with great resolution and repulse’d them in two attempts to posses themselves of the bridge over the river the west of the Town. after this repulse they made a Circuit of about two miles & entered the town on another quarter. The Militia kept constantly harasing them whilst they continued in Town—and it is probable they left it sooner than they intended; At East Haven a smart action took place between the inhabitants of the Village & the Enemy soon after landing, in which the inhabitants appeared inferior to the Britons in nothing but numbers. The loss in Killd and wounded on each side in these skirmishes are considerable, their Numbers I have not been able to ascertain, but, from accounts of deserters & Prisoners, about 160 of the wounded were carried on Board the fleet. At Fairfield a considerable skirmish happened at landing, with loss on both sides. After the enemy had possesed themselves of the Town, they attempted to take the little fort which was bravely & successfully defended by Lt Jarvis and about 20 men, the Enemy dismounted all his Cannon but one—and beat down great part of the works, but could not succeed in their Intentions to take the fort. They have burnt East Haven, the whole of Fairfield, except four houses, & the greatest part

of Green’s Farms—plundered New Haven of every thing they could carry off. Their Brutality and savageness here is unequal’d by any Barbarities Britons have exhibited to our notice before or during the war. The Murder of Old Men, Abuses of Women and little Children will make but a small part of the Black list. By Accounts from Horseneck the Enemy have advanced in force within one mile of that place, their numbers are said to be from 6. to 8,000 with 12 field peices near 1,000 horse, and about 300 waggons, the numbers are doubtless exagerated but I beleive they are in very considerable Force in that quarter. I shall go to Horseneck this morning & obtain fuller information. about 1,000 continental Troops will give great Confidence to the Militia and will serve exceedingly good purposes. I cannot ask them unless the Post at West point can be secured & this body spared for the purpose; I am still inclined to beleive these movements are primarily designd to draw our strength from West Point to facilitate an Attempt upon the object of Importance the enemy can have in view; Should they fail in their views, they may probably distress the country exceedingly by the ravages they will commit. I had rather see all the Towns on the Coast of my Country in flames, than the Enemy should possess West Point; but I feel most sensibly the distress of my Freinds and am certain your Excellency will do every thing to releive them which the General good of the Country will permit you. I am With the Greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

          Saml H. Parsons


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Sullivan, 10 July 1779
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Wyoming [Pa.] July 10th 1779

        I was Last Evening honored with Yr Excellencys favors of the first & 5th of July Inclosing a Copy of Yr Excys favor of the 21 June & Copy of a Letter from Montreal The first of these Seems to Censure both the proceedure & the order given to General Clinton but I am Certain had Yr Excy been upon the Spot & as well Acquainted with the facts as I am, You would have Acted the Same part that I have done. I thought my former Letters had fully Shown that I was So far from having a prospect of Supplying General Clintons Detachment with provisions that I have not Even now the most Distant prospect of keeping that part of the Army which is with me from Starving Long Enough to Compleat the Expedition. This I Early foresaw & Endeavored to Guard against—Notwithstanding the flattering Accounts given by those Employed by Quarter Masters & Commissaries which they are fond of giving when near Your person I can Claim a right as Commandg ⟨officer of the army⟩ & one whose Business it is to State ⟨facts as they are, to have some credence given to⟩ my Accounts. ⟨I shall therefore proceed to state a number of facts—I was taught to believe that 200 boats would be ready to receive and bring up the stores by the 25th of May, and was assured by the commissary that a sufficiency of provisions would be ready to transport to this place by the boats, so that every thing would be prepared for me, and sent to this place before the road was opened. I remained at Easton till I was ashamed, and being furnished by Gen: Hand⟩ with Copy of Letter from the agents below Informing him that the Boats which then came up with Stores need not return as the Residue of the Boats would bring up all the Stores I concluded I might come on with Safety but on my Arrival found that Genl hand had Discovered the mistake & Sent back the Boats I however thought these might be Sufficient but finding by Inquirey that they would not I Sent back the Boats which brought up the Last Provisions & yesterday morning another Small fleet arrived with provisions & I Last Evening received a request from those Gentlemen to Send them back again they having at Length Discovered that they have been Deceived in all their Calculations—These Boats Must Now proceed to Estherton & that I may gain Some knowledge of Affairs below I have Sent General hand with them, & Directed him to have the Meat Inspected before put on Board & I must remain here Consuming provisions till he returns I flattered myself that the State of the next Cargo of provisions would be better but the Commissary assures me that on an Average thirteen Barrels out of twenty has been returned in a State of putrifaction—& the Commissary Declares it as

Solely owing to the want of Salt. This must show that our ⟨salt provisions must fall far short of supplying⟩ the Ar⟨my at those places where salt provisions may be used to save our fresh for the Indian Country—and with respect to our dependance on fresh, I have only to inclose you a certificate of the commissary how many cattle he has received out of one thousand which was to come up Susquehannah by express promise of Mr Blaine to me—out of the residue of the number—a hundred and fifty more are at Sunbury—Col. Hubely was ordered to bring them forward—he arrived here⟩ Yesterday & assures me that they are So poor that they cannot walk & many of them cannot Even Stand & we have not as yet received 20 Days Flour, So that while we are Collecting the proper provisions & Stores for the Expedition we Shall Eat all our Salted provision & perhaps great part of our Fresh. having been apprized by Trusty friends of what I had to Expect from the promises made me & knowing by Experience how Little Dependance ought to be placed on them, I gave Directions to General Clinton to furnish his party with three-months Provisions which if I had not done we Should be Compelled to relinquish the Expedition, so to any promises of future Supplies, they are Idle for we cannot Leave Sufficient parties to prevent their being cut off & we can have no Dependance but upon the provisions we take with us & what is brought by General Clinton for our Garrisons or to Serve us upon Every occasion where we can use Salted provisions to Save Fresh, which will be During the whole march untill we Establish our Main Post in the Indian Country—I only Mentioned in my Last that this Army were to reach Tioga by the Day Genl Clintons was to Move but the Design was to move up the river ⟨to Schinacwacta⟩tine to Facilitate his passage & meet him ⟨on his route: This must effectually cover him⟩ if we are ⟨in ourselves strong enough to combat their whole force. If we are not we must expect a defeat before we reach Tioga. This always made me urge the necessity of this part of the army being sufficient to combat the whole force of the enemy (which I have at least some doubt of) but I am determined to try it at all events. Your Excellency will not be surprised at the calculations in my last return—I assure you that the boat-men have left us in shoals & that we have not a probability of one hundred⟩ Pack Horse men for the whole Army we Shall have 150 Boats when all Collected, these on an Average will take Six Men Each. this will take 900 men, of which we Must at Least Furnish Six our Pack Horses will be 1500 one man to five will be three hundred, two of which we must Furnish—these with their overseers &ca being Deducted from our number You will find my Calculation Just—when all these Facts are Considered yr Excy will I doubt not

approve of the measures I have Adopted—I did not order General Clinton to move his Boats from Conajoharia but Supposing that Every thing would be ready when I arrived here I on my Departure from Easton wrote him of my movement & Desired him to be ready to move across on the Shortest Notice In answer to which he wrote me that Such was the Difficulty of obtaining teams & Transporting the Boats & Such the probability of Many being Injured in the Transportation that Might take Long to repair that he found it Absolutely necessary to begin the Transportation which he had absolutely began before the Letter reached me it is true that this Discovers the Intention but if he had not have done it I believe Every Indian would have known our Design as well as we do ourselves—⟨I am aware of⟩ the Danger that will attend his passage ⟨but all I can do is to screen him if possible. I have not yet received any further accounts of the enemy’s movements. I however beleive the last account I gave you and would wish to disincumber Gen: Clinton of his provisions if possible but I know the attempt would end in the ruin of the expedition. I can only therefore bring about the junction in the method above proposed. I have the honor &.

          Jno. Sullivan.


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 10 July 1779
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Lebanon [Conn.] July 10th 1779

        I received your favour of the 7th Inst. this morning, and am much obliged to your Excellency for your early and seasonable attention for the safety of this State, and by Ordering General Glover’s Brigade to afford their aid to the Militia of this State, to repel the incursions of the Enemy here, which has for a considerable time past, been threatned with the full vengeance of the enemy. They have made one or two unsuccessful attempts upon N. London but failed of putting them into execution, partly by the unfavourable weather, and partly by the Alertness of the militia: But Governor Tryon & Sir George Collier, in their late proclamation, seem to impute our preservation heitherto, wholly to their lenity, but now threaten the whole execution of their Vengeance, and have actually began by their first attempt upon the defenceless Town of New Haven, which was so sudden, as was also their departure, that though the Militia turned out with great alertness, yet but few had arrived before the Enemy evacuated the Town. The few who were collected behaved with a proper spirit, and gave the Enemy considerable annoyance. The Enemy acquired but little, and mostly Soldiers plunder, taken from the houses and persons of the inhabitants. Their next attempt was upon Fairfield, where their stay was also short; but their rage great, having Consumed the whole of that Town to ashes, exept a very few houses. they then embarked and put across the Sound under Long-Island shore By some deserters & Prisoners we are informed their principal object is New-London, and indeed the whole of our Sea Coast. We are, I beleive, too well prepared at New London for them to make an attempt there at this time, but the season they have taken for these depridations is very unseasonable for us, of which they are well apprized, as they no doubt mean to prevent us of reaping the binifit of a luxuriant crop. They will perhaps lie by a few days, while we are obliged to release our Militia, and then suddenly return to their savage devastations.

        We are Just informed by express from Greenwich & Norwalk, that there is a large Body of the Enemy in full march from Kingsbridge up towards those places. The inhabitants that way are in the greatest distress—nothing expected since the fate of Fairfield, but flames & distruction on the sea shore. It is impossible for us to keep up such a body of troops in every Town through an extent of One hundred & twenty miles sea coast, as to prevent the distruction of many of our towns, and at the same time secure our hay & harvest—have no doubt your Excellency will from time to time afford such aid from the Continental Army as the movements of the Enemy make it necessary, and as may be consistent with the General security.
        Some days before the receipt of your last, we had sent an Express to your Excellency, requesting the detention of General Glover’s Brigade in this State for the present, or to turn his route on the sea Coast, which your timely provision has happily superseded.
        We have enclosed the late Address of Sir George Collier and Major General Tryon to the inhabitants of Connecticut. It was sent to Colo. Whiting of the militia near Fairfield, giving him one hour for his Answer; but before he had time to read it half through, the Town was in flames.
        The short answer you have inclosed. I am, with great Esteem & Regard, your Excellency’s Most Obedt humbe servt

          Jona. Trumbull


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 10 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

          Dr Sir,
          New Windsor 10th July 1779

        Immediately upon receipt of your letter of this date I ordered the Q.M. Genl to furnish the Espontoons you wrote for, and presume you will get them in a day or two.
        My ideas of the enterprise in contemplation are these.
        That it should be attempted by the light Infantry only, which should march under cover of night and with the utmost secrecy to the enemys lines, securing every person they find to prevent discovery.
        Between one and two hundred chosen men and Officers I conceive fully sufficient for the surprise, and apprehend the approach should be along the water on the south side crossing the Beach & entering at the abbatis.
        This party is to be preceded by a van guard of prudent and determined men, well commanded who are to remove obstructions— secure the Sentries & drive in the guard—They are to advance (the whole of them) with fixed Bayonets and Muskets unloaded. The Officers commanding them are to know precisely what batteries or particular parts of the line they are respectively to possess that confusion and the consequences of indecision may be avoided.
        These parties should be followed by the main body at a small distance for the purpose of support and making good the advantages which may be gained—or to bring them off in case of repulse & disappointment. other parties may advance to the works (but not so as to be discovered till the conflict is begun) by the way of the causey & River on the North if practicable as well for the purpose of distracting the enemy in their defence as to cut off their retreat. These parties may be small unless the access and approaches should be very easy and safe.
        The three approaches here mentioned should be well reconnoitered before hand & by persons of observation. single men in the night will be more likely to ascertain facts than the best glasses in the day.
        A white feather or cockade or some other visible badge of distinction for the night should be worn by our troops, and a watch word agreed on to distinguish friends from foes.
        If success should attend the enterprise, measures should be instantly taken to prevent if practicable the retreat of the garrison by water or to annoy them as much as possible if they attempt it—and the guns should be immediately turned against the shipping & Verplanks point and covered if possible from the enemy’s fire.

        Secrecy is so much more essential to these kind of enterprises than numbers, that I should not think it adviseable to employ any other than the light troops—If a surprise takes place they are fully competent to the business—if it does not numbers will avail little.
        As it is in the power of a single deserter to betray the design—defeat the project—& involve the party in difficul[t]ies & danger, too much caution cannot be used to conceal the intended enterprise to the latest hour from all but the principal Officers of your Corps and from the men till the moment of execution—Knowledge of your intention, ten minutes previously obtained, blasts all your hopes; for which reason a small detachment composed of men whose fidelity you can rely on under the care of a judicious Officer should guard every avenue through the marsh to the enemy’s works by which our deserters or their spies can pass, and prevent all intercourse.
        The usual time for exploits of this kind is a little before day for which reason a vigilant Officer is then more on the watch, I therefore recommend a midnight hour.
        I had in view to attempt Verplanks point at the same instant that your operations should commence at stoney point, but the uncertainty of co-operating, in point of time and the hazard thereby run of defeating the attempt on stoney point, which is infinitely most important—the other being dependent—has induced me to suspend that operation.
        These are my general ideas of the plan for a surprise, but you are at liberty to depart from them in every instance where you think they may be improved or changed for the better. A dark night and even a rainy one if you can find the way will contribute to your success—The Officers in these night marches should be extremely attentive to keep their men together as well for the purpose of guarding against desertion to the enemy as to prevent skulking.
        As it is a part of the plan, if the surprise should succeed to make use of the enemy’s cannon against their shipping & their post on the other side, it will be well to have a small detachment of Artillery with you to serve them—I have sent an order to the Park for this purpose and to cover the design have ordered down a couple of light field pieces—When you march you can leave the pieces behind.
        So soon as you have fixed your plan and the time of execution I shall be obliged to you to give me notice.
        I shall immediately order you a reinforcement of light infantry— & more Espontoons—I am with great regard Dr Sir Yr Most Obet, servant

          Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 11 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To:

          Head-Quarters New-Windsor Sabbath July 11th 1779.
          Parole Cambray—C. Signs Columbus. Colbert.

        Lieutenant Colonel Grosvenor of the Connecticutt line is appointed Sub-Inspector & is to be accordingly obeyed & respected.
        The following formation of the Connecticutt line for the present Campaign is to take place immediately.

            4th
            } Regts {
            to form one battalion and
            C.
            S.
            S.
            D.& F.
            R.& F.

            8th
            furnish for the L. Infantry
            2.
            4.
            6.
            4.
            64.

            6th—

            forms one battalion & furnishes—
            1.
            2.
            3.
            2.
            59.

            3rd—

            forms one battalion & furnishes—
            1.
            2.
            3.
            2.
            41.

            1st—

            forms one battalion & furnishes—
            1.
            2.
            3.
            2.
            41.

            5th
            } Regts {
            form one battalion

            2nd
            and furnish—
            2.
            4.
            6.
            4.
            62.

            7th

            forms one battn & furnishes
            1.
            2.
            3.
            2.
            41.

        Major General Heath with the two Connecticutt brigades being under marching orders, Nixon’s brigade will for the present be under the command of Majr General McDougall.
        The Members for the General Court Martial whereof Colonel Jackson was appointed President to be taken from General McDougall’s division and convene at the time mentioned in yesterday’s orders.
        At a Brigade General Court Martial held the 7th of July 79—in the 1st Maryland Brigade, Lieutenant Colo. Howard President, a certain John Springer was tried for, “Being a Spy and seducing soldiers to inlist in the british Army”—acquitted of the 1st charge, found guilty of the 2nd being a breach of the 4th Article of the 6th Section of

the Articles of War and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes and be kept in confinement until he can be employ’d in some department of the Army or Navy where he could not have an opportunity of deserting.
        The General thinks the offence would have justified a much severer sentence, but that so atrocious an offender may not escape with impunity, he directs it may take place, and that the Prisoner after receiving his stripes be returned to the Provost there to be kept well secured, ’till further orders.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 11 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

          Gentlemen,
          Head Quarters New Windsor July 11th 1779

        I am this morning honored with your letters of the 3 and 8th—I am happy to hear a reinforcement of cannon is coming on which is very important and was much wanted—The unmounted cannon had best be sent on slung upon waggon wheels—their carriages to follow as fast they are ready—I recommend this because the transportation of the cannon will be more slow and tedious than of the carriages which can follow with greater expedition and time will be saved upon the whole. Besides this, orders have been given in this quarter to construct a number of carriages for the use of the fort, and perhaps we may have some towards mounting these. But it will be adviseable for the Board to continue their exertions to have the others provided as speedily as possible, as there is no probability of our having more than are sufficient—Garrison carriages which I presume are the same with Ship carriages will be preferable to the travelling field carriages, which are more easily dismounted and are therefore seldom used in

works—Will it not be adviseable to take the eight pieces off the travelling carriages and send them slung as before mentioned? Their carriages would otherwise be much injured by transporting them so great a distance & through this rough country.
        I think it will be proper to detain the two 24s for the defence of the Delaware.
        I shall have the return required prepared and forwarded to the Board without delay.
        The three eighteens from Maryland are arrived. With the greatest respect & esteem I have the honor to be Gentlemen Your most Obedt sevt.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 11 July 1779
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          New Windsor July 11th 1779

        I inclose your Excellency a return of the Boats on and to the Westward of the Delaware. If your Excellency has any particular directions respecting them I shall be glad to receive them. I am with esteem Your Excellencys Most obedient humble Serv.

          Nath. Greene Q.M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 11 July 1779
From: Hay, Udny
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Fish Kill [N.Y.] 11th July 1779

        Having recd no particular directions from General Heath either respecting the route or quantity of Flour which would probably be wanted for the Troops under his command, I must beg leave to apply to your Excellency to know what route you think the Flour ought to go by, the nearest would be to unload it at Robisons and from there proceed by the continental Village Crompond and Bedford, but as I am totally unacquainted with the Disposition of the Troops on that route, would not venture to send any Teams that way till your pleasure was known, and have therefore ordered on all the flour which is purchased near Frederec’s burgh, but am much affraid the quantity is very triffling, nor can the Commissary give me any information about it.
        If the lower Route is not thought safe we must transport the whole through Frederecs burgh and Danbury at the last of which places the Connecticutt Teams will no doubt take it up.
        The Guard for the beacon will be furnished from this. I have the Honour to be with the truest respect Your Excellencies most obedt & very humble Sert

          Udny Hay


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 11 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Hay, Udny

          Sir,
          Head Qrs New Windsor July 11th 1779

        I have received your letter of this day—General Heath is to march the route you propose for sending provisions and therefore your first convoy may go that way; but it will not be safe for your future supplies. These must go by the way of Mahopack Pond (or Robinsons mills[}] through Salem, Ridgefield &c.—But as it will depend on the relative position of the troops you will be pleased to write to General Heath and receive his instructions from time to time. He will have the two Connecticut brigades with him. The route by Fredericksburgh & Danbury is so circuitous that we must not make use of it if we can help it. I am with great esteem Sir Your most Obedt serv.

          Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Udny Hay, 11 July 1779
From: Hay, Udny
To: Washington, George

          Sir
          Fish Kill [N.Y.] 11th July 1779 4 P.M.

        The inclosed for your Excellency I this moment recd by one of the Militia light Horse who was ordered to carry it on with all possible dispatch, he & Horse both being tired, he will wait here till the express who brings this returns, when he can take back the answer if any—I

am wh the utmost respect Your Excellencies most obedt & humble Serv.

          Udny Hay

          I am just now favoured with yours of equal date, the mode you order for carrying on the provisions shall be duly attended to.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 11 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

          Dr Sir,
          Head Quarters [New Windsor] July [11] 1779

        I yesterday requested you to have the light infantry formed before you marched and leave them behind—I am anxious this should be done as speedily as possible. So soon as they are drawn out, You will

be pleased to direct the Commanding officer to send to Head Quarters for orders. I am Dr Sir Your most Obedt servt

          Go: Washington

          Since writing the above I have received yours of this date—I could wish the light infantry to be at once formed as they are to continue. As the weather may prevent your marching, you can improve the delay in forming the light infantry on the proposed new formation. You will of course take your field artillery with you.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 11 July 1779
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

          Dear General
          Continental Village [N.Y.] July 11th 1779

        Your favor of yesterday repeating the order for the formation of the Light Infantry Companies did not reach me until I arrived here, with Parsons’s Brigade I have given Orders to have the Companies Compleated immediately, I shall prosecute my march with all Possible dispatch with the two Brigades when the weather permits at present it is very Stormy, The Artillery was ordered on with the Troops. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obedient Servt

          W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Major General Johann Kalb, 11 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Kalb, Johann

          Sir,
          Head Quarters New Windsor 11th July 1779

        I received your favor of yesterdays date—Capt. Selman shall be appointed to do the duty of Brigade Major; & as his, continuance in that Office will be only temporary; I enclose you an order on the Qr Mr Genl to furnish him with a horse. I am Sr Yrs &c.

          G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Major Henry Lee, Jr., 11 July 1779
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

          sir
          Ha⟨ver⟩Straw [N.Y.] July 11th 79

        I had the honor of your Excellency’s let. of the 10th last night.
        I am sorry it did not reach me previous to the execution of the deserter. Altho’ from what I observe here it has had a very immediate effect for the better on both troops & inhabitants.
        Another deserter was apprehended yesterday. He belongs to the 10th pens. He is sent up unhurt.
        A party now out, are acting under my former orders. It is certain that should any deserters appear they will if taken be put to death.
        I have forwarded counter orders in the spirit of your Excellcys directions. with this additional, that only one instead of the whole be executed of such as may be apprehended. I have the honor to be sir with perfect attachment

          Henry Lee Jr.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 11 July 1779
From: Washington, George
To: Parsons, Samuel Holden

          Dr Sir,
          Head Quarters [New Windsor] July 11th 1779

        I have just received yours of yesterday—I am happy to hear of the spirited behaviour of the Militia. They have certainly done themselves great honor; if the opposition they give is not absolutely effectual, it serves to discourage the enemy and make them sick of such excursions—I shall be glad to learn they have met with a proper reception at Norwalk. Before this reaches you, you will have received my letter informing you that General Heath was under marching orders—The weather I imagine has prevented his moving this morning as was intended. I am Sir Your most Obedt servant

          G.W.