Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 19 June 1776
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia June 19th 1776.

Since my Letter on the 18th Inst. I have Nothing further in Charge from Congress that particularly relates to yourself, or the Army immediately under your Command.
I have wrote to the Conventions of the Jerseys and New York, and to the Assembly of Connecticut on the Subject of the Resolve, Inclos’d in my last and have pressed them to a Compliance with the Request therein contained.
Mr Bedford who is appointed Muster Master General, I have directed to repair to Head Quarters immediately, and have delivered him his Commission. You will please to appoint a Deputy Muster Master General for the Department of Canada.
I do myself the Honour of writing to Govr Trumbull by this Conveyance, and transmitting a Copy of sundry Resolves respecting

his Government. I also forward him blank Commissions.
Your several Favours to the 17th Inst. have been duely received, and are at this Time before Congress. As soon as I have it in my Power, I shall, with particular Pleasure, transmit the Result.
The Carpenters mentioned in the Resolve of the 17th I shall send to Genl Schuyler directly from this City. I have the Honour to be Sir your most obedt & very hble Servt

John Hancock Presidt

            The Inclos’d Resolves I Transmitt, to which I beg Leave to refer you.
  I have been so Engag’d that I have not Oppory to Confer with the other Delegates of Massachusts on the Subject of your Letter, but beg leave to Refer the matter to you, fully Convinc’d that you will Send such officer as will effectually Execute your & our wish, I will do my self the honour to address you by next Post.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Charles Pond, 19 June 1776
From: Pond, Charles
To: Washington, George

Sloop Schuyler fire Island [N.Y.] June 19th 1776

I have the Pleasure of Informing His Excellency of our taking two Prises one A Ship of 250 Tons Burthen the Sloop 35 Tons Bound to Sandy hook the Ship from Glasgow with one Compy of the 42d Regt Who was taken by one of Admiral Hopkins’s fleet who took the Soldiers on Board & Sent the Ship for Rhode Island Soon after was Taken by the Cerberus Frigate & Sent her under Convoy of the Above Sd Sloop for Sandy hook. Remaining on Board the Ship 5 Commission’d officers with 2 Ladies & 4 Privates, Prisoners Total 20.
Stores on Board the Ship Crawford 13 tierces of Beef 11 Do of Pork, 3000 Wt of Bread 4 Puncheons of Rum, 100 barrels of Coal, 10 firkins of Butter 1 Cask of Cheese.
On Board the Sloop 15 Cask of Molasses 2 Chests of Dry Goods 1 Tierce & 1 Barrel of Cags of Powder 1 Case of flints, Some Salt Petre.

The Ship is part of the way In the Inlet but at Present is Aground Pray Send Direction About the Prisoners as I am Short handed.

Charles Pond Capt:


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 19–20 June 1776
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Albany June 19[–20]th 1776.

Whilst I was in Conference with the Oneida Indians who returned from Canada, I received a Letter from General Arnold and another from Dr Stringer Copy of one and Extract of the Other I do myself the Honor to inclose Your Excellency, and congratulate You on the Success of our Arms as Communicated by Dr Stringer. I could wish he had been more Explicit, That we have had the Advantage I believe admits of no Doubt as Capt. Livingston my Aid de Camp who is at Fort George informs me

that a Mr Hide was arrived who gives much the same Account. But adds that General Thompson had been on the Point of loosing his Batteaus, as a Party of the Enemy had been sent to seize them.
As soon as we had finished the Conference with the Indians I returned home intending immediately to have dispatched an Express with the Intelligence communicated as above, But I was so violently attacked by the Fever (and have been for three Days successively) that I could neither write nor dictate, nor hardly read Your Excellency’s Favor of the 16th which was then delivered Me.
The Return alluded to in mine of the 12th I had inclosed in that of the 11th & 12th of which I only sent You a Copy, General Wooster having taken Charge of the Original & which I hope is come to Hand.
Mr Deane whom I sent with the Message to invite the Indians to a Conference, is returned from Oneida from whence the Message & Belt were carryed on to the Other Tribes by a trusty Oneida.
The Batteaumen of three Batteaus who got off when the Others were stopped some Time ago upon the Mohawk River by the Committee of Tryon County, are returned they were not permitted to go further than Niagara. The Intelligence they bring is, That as soon as It was known there That Sir John Johnson was gone off, a Vessel With twenty five Barrels of Pork as much Flour, Some Sugar and Rum was dispatched to Oswegatchie; That the Commanding Officer declared that there were One Thousand Indians there, Chiefly of the Western Nations; That It was given out that Butler intended to hold a Conference at Oswego, & that they had Plenty of Provisions.
As these Batteaumen, if not Tories, were under the Influence of a Mr Ellis who is greatly suspected of being our Enemy, I do not give full Credit to what they say, Especially as to the Article of Provisions and the Number of Indians, for the Oneidas informed Mr Deane that all the six Nations were at Home Except a small Part of the Senecas.
I had already anticipated Your Excellencys Wish that I should purchase all the Goods I Could get at this Place and Its Vicinity, having Employed proper Persons the very Day I returned from Fort George. But the Difficulty we Labour under is want of hard

Money for some of the Merchants especially a Mr Blake, whom I have mentioned before would not sell a Good Assortment he had, Altho’ his Price was not disputed, And Altho, I had caused him to be informed that I had entreated Your Excellency to give order for the Payment of his Bill in hard Money If It could be got.
The Disorder I labour under greatly distresses me & has brought me very low, But my Presence is Judged both by my Colleagues & the Oneidas so Absolutely Necessary at the Ensuing Treaty, that I am resolved to be there And will go in a Close Carriage if I cannot Otherwise.
June 20th 8 oClock A.M. I could not proceed with my Letter of last Night as my Fever after an Absence of two Hours returned and has Continued until half an Hour ago, Since which I have received a Letter from Colo: Wynkoop inclosing Copy of One from Colo: Poor to him, Dated the 15th at St Johns, and advises that “Our Army are now on their Retreat out of Canada and as there is not Batteaus enough here to transport our Men & Baggage over the Lake, You will immediately send all the Boats that can be procured to St Johns, Pray Sir don’t fail, as a safe Retreat may depend upon It. You will likewise order the Shipping down and let them stop Nigh the Middle of Isle of Motte It being best for them to stop there, as the Navigation this Way of It is very Difficult.”
I have ordered all the Batteaus in Lake George to be Carryed to Tyonderoga that they might be ready to go to Skenesborough to take in the Militia of the Massachusetts Bay & Connecticut, whom I have desired to march to that Place, those of New Hampshire to Crown Point or Onion River, as should be deemed most Convenient for them. Those from this Colony I propose sending by Lake George. I find Myself under a Great Dilemma, If I send on the Batteaus the Militia Cannot move, but I do not conceive the Necessity of moving the Militia farther than Tyonderoga, If our Army is obliged to retreat, I shall therefore order the Batteaus to be forwarded unless General Sullivan advises otherwise whose Express left Fort George before Mr Lansing who brought me the above Letter and informs Me (as what he had from the Express) That General Thompson & Colo: Irvine are certainly taken Prisoners & that our People were obliged to retreat with the Loss of about One hundred &

twenty Men The Enemy being Considerably reinforced the Evening before the Attack.
Your Excellency will see by the inclosed Return that the Men at Fort George are inadequate in Point of Numbers to keep the Garrison in Case of an Attack, & Man the Batteaus of which there are some times twenty & upwards with five Men in Each at Once on the Lake Either going to or Coming from Tyonderoga, I shall therefore at all Events detain a Body of Militia there and at Tyonderoga, Altho’ the Order of Congress is, that they are to go into Canada, But as on the Preservation of these Posts the Safety of the Army in Canada does absolutely and immediately depend, I think I shall be justifyed in the Measure both with Your Excellency & the Congress.
Yesterday Mr Trumbull the Deputy Paymaster General received to the Amount of six thousand Dollars in Specie from the Colony of Connecticut, I have ordered It to be immediately forwarded to General Sullivan.
I thank Your Excellency for the Account of the Prize taken to the Eastward, and for the Account that It is possible some more are taken, I am ever happy to receive Such Accounts, as I make the most of them to keep up the Spirits of the People here which are really lowered much by the repeated misfortunes in Canada.
I have this Moment sent to the Committee to request that the Proportion of the Militia of this County which is four hundred and twenty five, may be immediately Collected, that I may send them to reinforce the Garrisons of Fort George and Tionderoga.
Colo: Wynkoop writes Me that he has sent on only three Companies of Van Schaicks to Canada Not being able by any Means to spare the Other.
Since my last Accounts from Fort George a Considerable Quantity of Provisions has been sent forward, I have desired Mr Livingston to write fully to Mr Trumbull on the Subject of Supplying the Army. No fat Cattle are Yet to be had, But if they were, we Cannot get them as We have not any money, And without immediate Payment none will sell Either in this or the adjacent Colonies.
Your Excellency will perceive by General Arnolds Letter that he had seized the Effects of the Tories in Montreal, this was in Consequence of a Querie of mine to the Commanding Officer in

Canada Whether such a Measure would not be necessary, giving at the same Time my Opinion that It was, & that these Persons ought to be secured & sent down here, Mr Lansing says that he has been informed that many of these Goods were sent to Sorrel where our Soldiers seized them as Plunder.
June 20th at Eleven o’Clock, This Moment the Officer whom General Sullivan sent Express has delivered Me the inclosed. Taking the whole together of what he & General Arnold write, I do not by any Means think the formers Resolution to keep post at Sorel a very E[l]igable One Especially when he is “Every Moment informed of the vast Number of the Enemy which have arrived” And altho’ he does not believe “that Great Numbers have arrived from England and all the Troops from Halifax” Yet “he apprehends their Numbers are very great” And as he has only 2533 Rank & File to oppose them & “Most of the Officers seem discouraged and of Course their Men.” But If Your Excellency should be in sentiment with Me that he ought to quit Sorel for a Place from whence there is a greater Prospect of securing a Retreat to such Part of Lake Champlain where the Enemy cannot follow, Yet I fear Your Orders will come too late. I should however conceive Myself inexcusable If I did not advise It: For the Safety of the Colonies depends in a Great Measure on the Safety of that Army & however disagreeable the Consequences may be of Evacuating Canada, they cannot ever be Equal to the Loss of our Army and with It the whole Country. General Sullivan in his Letter to me Confirms me that I am right in the Opinion I have given above, for he says “By the inclosed You will see our Situation, Our Enemies multiply upon our Hands and we have few to oppose them, I believe the whole Force intended for Canada is arrived with Burgoyne at their Head, I now think only of a Glorious Death or a Victory Obtained against Superior Numbers.”
Altho’ our Affairs are in such a disagreeable Situation, I do not by any Means despond And do believe that if our Army can retreat into Lake Champlain, That It will be impossible for the Enemy to reach as far South as Crown Point at least Not this Campaign and that they will never be able to penetrate into the Country. But if our Army is lost they will go where they please, in Spite of our Naval Force on the Lake which is by No Means an

Object of Much Importance, nor will be unless greatly encreased, which I shall do with all the Dispatch I am Capable of in My Low State of Health. I am Dr General Your Most Obedient Humble servant

Ph: Schuyler

Inclose the Substance of the Conference with the Indians returned from Canada.
P.S. Agreeable to Genl Schuyler’s Desire, who is now sick a Bed, I inclose Your Excellency Copy of his Letter of this Date to Genl Sullivan. from Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Humble servt

Richd Varick

Albany June 20. 1776


Title: To George Washington from William Watson, 19 June 1776
From: Watson, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Plymouth [Mass.] 19 June 1776

I wrote your Excellency on the 20th April ultimo Desiring that the papers might be remitted to me, which were taken withe the two p[r]izes bro’t into this port Last Winter by Capt. Coit. my Letter must have miscaried, as I have recd no answer to it—on this account the Tryal of these two Vessels has been postponed from time to time, as no evidence can be had against them, but from those papers. The former owners Lay Claim to them & urge, that their going to Nova Scotia for provisions, was absolutely necessary, for the support of their Familys & Connections, & that they did not intend to supply the garrison at Boston. these papers, can they be obtained, will elucidate this matter.

Relying on your Excellencys giveing a few moments attention to this Business. I must beg leave to subscribe my self Your Excellencys most obedient much obligd & very humble Servant

William Watson


Title: General Orders, 20 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, June 20th 1776.
Parole Gates.Countersign Canada.

Fifty men, one Capt: two Subs: three Serjts three Corporals and one Drum to parade to morrow morning nine oClock at the Assi[s]tant Quarter Master Hughes with one weeks provision and there receive their orders from him.
Five Carpenters to be nominated by the Quarter Master General out of Col. Reeds, Col. Bailey’s and Col. Learnads Regiments to be sent to assist the Wheelwrights.
Nathaniel Powers of Capt: Bowlton’s Company and Col. Sheppards Regiment, having been tried by a Court Martial whereof Col. Parsons was President for “Desertion” was found guilty and sentenced to receive Thirty-nine Lashes. The General approves the sentence and orders it to be put in execution at the usual time and place.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel James Clinton, 20 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

Sir,
New York June 20th 1776.

On the Execution of the Inclosed Warrant with expedition, care & exactness, much may depend; I therefore desire you will perform the Service therein required, yourself—In the Instant he is siezed (& his Papers) inform him that there are indubitable Evidence of his being concernd in a Scheme of Inlisting Men for the Kings Service, & note his answers—Communicate this matter to no Person living till you perform the Office required of you. I am Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Nicholas Cooke, 20 June 1776
From: Cooke, Nicholas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Providence June 20th 1776

It is with great Pleasure that I do myself the Honor to transmit to your Excellency the inclosed Vote of the General Assembly.
The putting the Colony Brigade upon the Continental Establishment for which we esteem ourselves so much indebted to your Excellency gave the highest Satisfaction. Mr Hopkins sent me the Commissions with Power to fill up those for the Captains and Subalterns as should be thought best here; but added that “As the Field Officers will be appointed or at least approved by Congress I could wish that you would transmit to me the Names of such Gentlemen as you may think most capable to fill those Offices.” The General Assembly have not nominated any Persons to those Offices. I most earnestly request your Excellency’s Attention to the Troops in this Colony and to the Necessity of appointing an Officer of Ability and Reputation to command them which is most ardently wished by every Body. I am, with great Respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient and Most humble Servant

Nichs Cooke


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 20 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
New York June 20. 1776

I am now to acknowledge the receipt of your favors of the 14 & 18 Instt and the Interesting resolves contained in them, with which I have been honoured.

The several matters recommended to my attention shall be particularly regarded, and the directions of Congress and your requests complied with in every instance as far as in my power.
The Instituting a War Office is certainly an event of great Importance, and in all probability will be recorded as such in the Historic page. The benefits derived from It, I flatter myself, will be considerable, though the plan, upon which It is first formed may not be entirely perfect. This like other great works, in its first edition may not be free from error, Time will discover Its defects and experience suggest the remedy and such further Improvements as may be necessary; But It was right to give It a beginning in my opinion.
The recommendation to the Convention of New York for restraining & punishing disaffected persons, I am hopefull will be attended with salutary consequences, and the prohibition against exporting provisions appears to have been a measure founded in sound policy, lest proper supplies should be wanted wherewith to subsist our Armies.
I have transmitted General Schuyler the Resolves about the Indians and the others on which he is to act, and have requested his strict attention and exertions in order to their being carried into execution with all possible dispatch.
I note your request respecting Mr Hancock—he shall have such directions as may be necessary for conducting his Office and am happy he will have so early a remittance for paying the Troops in his department.
The Silver and paper money designed for Canada will be highly serviceable, and I hope will be the means of reestablishing our credit there in some degree with the Canadians, and also encourage our men too, who have complained in this Instance. When It arrives, I will send It forward under a proper guard.
I have communicated to Majr Genl Gates the Resolve of Congress for him to repair to Canada, and directed him to view point au fer that a Fortress may be erected If he shall Judge It necessary—he is preparing for his command, and in a few days will take his departure for It. I would fain hope his arrival there will give our Affairs a complexion different from what they have worn for a long time past, and that many essential benefits will result from It.
The kind attention Congress have shewn to afford the Commander

in Cheif here every assistance, by resolving that recommendatory Letters be written to the Conventions of New-Jersey, New York & Assembly of Connecticut to authorize him to call in the Militias in cases of exigency claims my thankfull acknowledgements, and I trust if carried into execution will produce many advantages, in case It may be expedient at any time to call in early Reinforcements—The delays Incident to the ordinary mode may frequently render their aid too late & prove exceedingly Injurious.
I this evening received Intelligence of the 19 Inst. from Capn Pond of the Armed Sloop Schuyler of his having taken about 50 Miles from this on the South side of Long Island, a Ship & a Sloop bound to Sandy Hook—The Ship from Glasgow with a Company of the 42 Regmt had been taken by one of Commodore Hopkins’s fleet who took the Soldiers out & ordered her to Rhode Island—after which she was retaken by the Cerberus and put under the Convoy of the Sloop—As Captain Pond Informs there were: Five Commissd Officers, Two Ladies & four privates on board—they are not yet arrived at Head Quarters—Inclosed is an Invoice of what they have on board.
Genl Wooster having expressed an Inclination and wish to wait on Congress, I have given him permission not having any occasion for him here—he set out this morning.
I have been up to view the Grounds about Kings Bridge and find them to admit of several places well calculated for defence, and esteeming It a pass of the utmost importance have Ordered Works to be laid out and shall direct part of the Two Battallions from Pensylvania to set about the execution immediately and will add to their number Several of the Militia when they come in to expedite them with all possible dispatch—their Consequence, as they will keep open the communication with the Country requires the most speedy completion of them. I have the Honor to be with great Esteem Sir &c.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Edward Hand, 20 June 1776
From: Hand, Edward
To: Washington, George

Paulus Hook, June 20, 1776.

Sir: Being under the necessity of crossing the ferry from New-York to this place, I had a fellow passenger in the boat who talked much and very disrespectfully of our efforts to defend the city; particularly that the British troops would land on Long-Island, march up to York, and destroy the city by bombardment; that there was no doubt but they would, at any time, beat us fourteen to ten; that their ships would undoubtedly demolish our fortifications; that while we amused our country by opposition, the people were famishing. When asked how, he said for want of salt, for one instance. I could add more of his impertinence, but think it best not to trouble your Excellency. Three gentlemen who were in the boat sign this paper as evidences. I send the delinquent prisoner for your Excellency’s examination; and am your humble servant,

Edward Hand, Col. First Reg’t.
Caleb Bruen, Capt. of the Artificers.
William Green
Lewis Jones, Serg’t 3d Bat. Yorkers.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 20–21 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear Sir
New York June th 20[–21] 1776.

I herewith transmit You sundry Resolves of Congress respecting the Indians, the fortifying Fort Stanwix &c. & for rendering more easy & Commodious our passes into Canada.
As the Resolves are of an Interesting & Important Nature, I must request Your particular Attention to them & most Active Exertions for accomplishing & Carrying the whole into Execution with all possible Dispatch.
I am hope full the Bounty Congress have agreed to allow, as You will perceive by the last Resolve, will prove a powerful Inducement to engage the Indians in our Service, & their Endeavours to make Prisoners of all the Kings Troops they possibly can. You will use Every Method You shall Judge Necessary, to conciliate their Favor, & to this End, are Authorized to promise them a punctual Payment of the Allowance Congress have determined

on, for such Officers & Privates belonging to the King’s Army as they may captivate & deliver Us.
June 21st. I have this Moment received Your Favors of the 15 & 17 & the Post being about to depart have not Time to Answer them fully, & shall only add that Lady Johnson may remain at Albany till further Directions from Me. I am Dr Sir, Your Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Artemas Ward, 20 June 1776
From: Ward, Artemas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Boston 20 June 1776.

I have to inform you that the Continental Privateers brought into this Port the eighteenth Instant another Scotch Transport with a Highland Company of Grenadiers on board consisting of upwards of an hundred with their Officers, with a few arms more than what belonged to the Company. Each Transport brings a considerable quantity of provisions for the Troops. The prisoners are going into the Country Towns agreable to the Order of Congress.
The Colonel mentioned in my last, is Lieutenant Colonel Cambell, commander of one of General Frazers Battallions of Highlanders, he is a Member of Parliament, and a gentleman of Fortune.

I must repeat my earnest Request to be relieved immediately as I have been so very ill for some time past as to be confined to my Chamber, and have no prospect of recovering my health until I have a relaxation from business. I am your Excellency’s Obedient Humble Servant

Artemas Ward


Title: General Orders, 21 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, June 21st 1776.
Parole Albany.Countersign Bedford.

All officers, or soldiers, belonging to either of the Regiments, serving in Canada, are to apply immediately to Major General Gates, who will give them orders for repairing to their respective detachments.
The General has been pleased to appoint Richard Cary and Samuel Webb Esquires, his Aid-du-Camps—and Alexander Counter Harrison Esqr: assistant Secretary, who are to be obeyed and regarded as such.
The Honorable Continental Congress have been pleased to give the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, to the Aids-du-Camp of the Commander in Chief, and to his principal Secretary—Also the rank of Major to the Aids-du-Camp of the Majors General.
The Honorable Continental Congress have resolvd that no officer shall suttle, or sell, to the Soldiers, on penalty of being fined one Months pay and dismissed the service with infamy.
The same Honorable Body have also resolved, that all sales of arms, ammunition, cloathing and accoutrements, made by any Soldier of the Continental Army, shall be void—Also, That the Baggage of officers and soldiers, shall be regulated conformably to the Rules and Customs of the British Army.
The General requires and expects, a most exact and punctual obedience, to each of the above resolves.


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 21 June 1776
From: Board of War
To:

Sir
War Office Philada 21st June 1776

The Congress having thought proper to appoint us to the Board of War & Ordinance, we do ourselves the Honour to transmit you the foregoing Extracts from their Proceedings establishing a War Office for the more speedy & effectual Dispatch of military Bussiness. You will percieve, on Perusal of the Extracts, that it will be necessary for you forthwith to furnish the Board with an exact State of the Army under your Command & every thing relative thereto. You will therefore be pleased, as speedily as possible, to give the necessary Directions for true & accurate Returns to be made to you, so as to enable you to give the Board the proper Information As much depends on reducing into Method the Bussiness recommended to our Notice, we beg you will forward all Measures conducive to this desirable Purpose by every Means in your Power. It is expected that in future monthly Returns be regularly transmitted to the War Office that Congress may frequently have a full & general Knowledge of the true Situation of their military Affairs without which it will be impossible to conduct them with Propriety & Success. We must farther request that you will keep up a constant & regular Correspondence with us that we may cooperate with you in such Measures as may tend to advance the Interest of America in general & the particular Department committed to your Care. You will be pleased in the Returns of the several Regiments to mention the Colonies in which they were raised, the Times when & the Periods for which the Men were enlisted as it will be necessary for us to have sufficient Notice of these

Matters that Congress may keep up the Army to its full Compliment. We are your Excellency’s most obedient & most hble Servants

            John Adams
            Benja. Harrison

            Roger Sherman
            James Wilson

            Edward Rutledge


Title: From George Washington to the Essex County Committee of Safety, 21 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Essex County Committee of Safety

Gentn
[New York, 21 June 1776]

The absolute necessity of preventing all Correspondence between the Inhabitants of this Country and our Enemies, obliges me to every degree of Intelligence that lead to the Channel of such Intercourse—Doctor William Burnet of New Ark can inform you of certain Insinuations and charges against Part of the Army under my Command, as if they were liable to Bribery and Corruption, in permitting Persons to go from Staten Island to the Men of War at or near Sandy Hook, and as the Person from whom he has received his Intelligence resides at New Ark within the District of your Committee, I must request it as a matter of great Importance, that your Committee will as soon as possible call on David Ogden Esqr., to declare who the Person was, who

informed him that he had engaged the guard of the Rifle-Men at Staten Island to carry him on Board the Men of War, with all the Circumstances within his Knowledge; and also that you do call on the Person whom he points out to be his Informant, to declare every Circumstance within his Knowledge, relative to the Matter.

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Franklin, 21 June 1776
From: Franklin, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia, June 21. 76

I am ⟨muc⟩h obliged by your kind Care of my unfortunate Letter, which at last came safe to hand. I see in it a Detail of the mighty Force we are threatned with; which however I think it is not certain will ever arrive; & I see more certainly the Ruin of Britain if she persists in such expensive distant Expeditions, which will probably prove more disastrous to her than anciently her Wars in the Holy Land.
I return Gen. Sulivan’s Letter enclos’d: Am glad to find him in such Spirits, and that the Canadians are returning to their Regard for us. I am just recovering from a severe Fit of the Gout, which has kept me from Congress & Company almost ever since you left us, so that I know little of what has pass’d there, except that a Declaration of Independence is preparing. With the greatest Esteem & Respect, I am, Dr Sir, Your most obedt & most hume Servt

B.F.


Title: To George Washington from Ensign Benjamin Gould, 21 June 1776
From: Gould, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Boston, 21 June 1776. “Whereas I received orders from your Excellency to march the Guard under my Command at Genl Lees Qua[rte]rs to Guard the Magazeine at Winter Hill. accordingly I Did. . . . the Powder was moved into Boston, then General Ward Gave orders for me to march into Boston and be his Guard. accordingly I marched into Boston and remain his Guard; and as he Expects soon to Leave the Service: I humbly ask the favour of your Excellency to permit me and Guard to stay as Guard for the Succeeding General.”


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 21 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
New York June 21st 1776

I was this morning honoured with your favor of the 19th Instant with sundry Resolves of Congress, which came to hand after I had closed mine of the 20th. I shall appoint a Deputy muster master General as soon as I can fix upon a proper person for the Office, and direct him immediately to repair to Canada.
Mr Bennet the bearer of this delivered me a Letter to day from General Schuyler, Inclosing the Proceedings of the Commissioners of Indian affairs at a meeting at Albany in consequence of the Resolution of Congress (as they say) which I transmitted the 7 Instant, for engaging the Indians in our service—The Gentlemen appear to me to have widely mistaken the views of Congress in this Instance and to have formed a plan for engaging such Indians as were not in contemplation. I cannot account upon what principles they have gone, as a part of their proceedings shew they are about to hold a conference with the Six nations. I suppose they esteemed what they have done a necessary measure, a Copy of which I have the honor to Inclose you.
I shall now beg leave to lay before Congress a proposition made to me by Captain Lary of this City in behalf of a body of men who are desirous of being employed in the Continental service as a Troop of Horse, and at the same time to offer my opinion that such a Corps may be extremely usefull in many respects—In a march they may be of the utmost service in reconnoitring the Enemy, and gaining Intelligence, and have It in their power to render many important benefits. The terms on which they are willing to engage are Inclosed, which appear to me moderate and reasonable—I am also Informed that Another Company might be readily made up and most probably upon the same terms, I would therefore submit the propriety & expediency of the measure to the consideration of Congress and wish their Opinion whether It will be agreable to them that both or either of them should be formed & Incorporated in this Army in manner as has been proposed by Captain Lary If It can be done. I have the honour to be with great esteem Sir Yr most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Genl Schuyler in his Letter mentions 10 Dollrs paid Mr Bennet there.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 21–22 June 1776
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia June 21t[–22] 1776.

The Congress having the greatest Reason to believe there has been very gross Misconduct in the Management of our Affairs in Canada, have come to a Resolution to have a general Enquiry made into the Behaviour of the Officers employed on that Expedition. The Honour of the United Colonies, and a Regard for the Public Good, call loudly for such an Enquiry to be set on Foot. I am therefore directed to request, after having made the Enquiry, agreeably to the enclosed Resolve, you will transmit the Result, together with the Proofs to Congress.
The opinion, that an Officer cannot be tried by a Court Martial after his Resignation, for Offences while he held a Commission—so dangerous to the Service—and particularly destructive in our Army, where the short Enlistment of the Troops

might furnish Temptation to Crimes from the Prospect of Impunity, has been this Day reprobated by Congress.
I have wrote to the Convention of New York on the Subject of the enclosed Resolve respecting another Regiment to be raised in that Colony. The Terms on which the Commissions are to be granted, are extremely well calculated to excite the officers to exert themselves to fill up their Companies.
I have likewise written to the respective Colonies, and have sent Copies of the enclosed Resolve recommending to them to provide Cloaths for the Troops of their Colonies. These, or such Articles of them as you shall want, the Congress have empowred you to draw for on the Assemblies & Conventions from Time to Time, as you shall judge necessary. I have represented to them that it is totally impossible the American Army should ever be on a respectable Footing, or that they should render such essential Services to their Country as we expect & desire, unless the United Colonies will, on their Part, take Care that they are well appointed & equipped with every Thing necessary for an Army.
Genl Wooster, it is the Order of Congress, should be permitted to return to his Family.
I have Deliver’d Mr Vissher his Commissn as Lieut. Coll in the Regimt Commanded by Coll Nicholson, & directed him to wait on you upon his Arrival at New York.
Apprehending that such of the Resolves of Congress as respect the Conduct of the Army are executed in consequence of orders issued by you, I have omitted Sending to Genl Schuyler such as respect him, concluding that the Directions would go from you, but if it will be any way a Relief to you, I will Continue to forward them. I have the honour to be with much Esteem, Sir Your most Obedt hum. sert

John Hancock Presidt

22d Your Letter of 20th this moment come to hand, shall be laid before Congress on Monday.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Hawley, 21 June 1776
From: Hawley, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Water town [Mass.] June 21st 1776

The Most important Matters are soon to be decided by Arms Unhappy it is for the Massachusetts and I fear for the whole

continent that at this season We have a large Numerous Assembly More than one half of the house are new members—Their decisions are Most afflictingly slow, when every thing calls for the Utmost ardour & dispatch The Lord have Mercy on us! This colony I imagine will raise the Men required by Congress, before Snow falls—But in No season for the relief of either New York or Canada—Pray Sr Consider what then is to be done—It is My clear Opinion that there will not a single company Move in this colony for either of those places, this three weeks—I know Sir it will vex You—But Your Excellency will not be Alone in the vexation—My soul at times is ready to die within Me, at the delays, at others, My Blood to press out at the pores of My Body—But what Shall be the expedients—I never was good at them—But will Venture to propose again the same I mentioned in my last—Namely, That some or all of the five Continental regiments here be orderd to March without one Moments delay to Canada or New York as the exigencies require—in Such case they Must be paid up their Arrears or Nearly—in that way You Will in effect get Succours for New York or Canada or both from this colony—Our People are so Jealous for their own Safety (tho you know Sir that I judge them at present in very little danger) that they will raise the Militia for their own defence—I begg your Excellency to Advert to the proposal a Moment—our own Militia are as good for all the intents Answered or to be Answered here; by those regiments as they are—They [are] Much better for Canada or New-York than the Militia—They are Officerd and organized and Well armed—The Militia to be officered Armed and equipped—The differences are too Many to be enumerated—if I may say it I am astonished at the Policy of Congress in ordering More Regiments here instead of ordering those which are here to parts where they [are] infinitely more Needed—But my opinion is [of] little worth—But Such as it is I have given it—it may ser⟨ve⟩ as a Suggestion—I am, May it please your Excellency most sincerely Your.


Title: Arrest Warrant from a Secret Committee of the New York Provincial Congress, 21 June 1776
From: Secret Committee of the New York Provincial Congress
To:

Sir
[New York, 21 June 1776]

Whereas David Matthews Esqr. stands charged with dangerous Designs and treasonable Conspiracies against the Rights and Liberties of the united Colonies of America We do in Pursuance of a certain Resolve of the Congress of the Colony of the twentieth of June Instant authorize and request you to cause the said David Matthews to be with all his Papers forthwith apprehended and secured and that Return be made to us of the Manner in which this Warrant shall be executed in Order that the same may be made known to the said Congress—Given under our Hands this twenty first Day of June 1776.

Phil. Livingston
John Jay
Gouvr Morris


Title: To George Washington from Colonel James Clinton, 22 June 1776
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

May it Please Your Excellency
Fort Constitution [N.Y.] June 22d abt 6 of the Clock Afternoon 1776

I have Just now Received you[r] Letter by Express with the Warrant therein Inclosed which I will Endeavour to Execute with the Greatest Care Expedition and Exactness that I Possibly Can[.] after it is Done I will Bring him and his Papers to this Fort where I ⟨shall⟩ keep him Prisoner till I Receive Your Excellencies further Directions, I wrote to Your Excellency Yesterday by Coll Livingston who Brought Down the Necessary Returns from both Forts You may See by them what A Situation my Regt is in for want of arms and I dont know at Present any way to Suply them unless we can be furnished from New York I will do my Endeavour to get as many Arms as I can I was Down at Fort Montgomery Yesterday where I think the work goes on as well as Can be Expected I mentioned in the Letter I wrote before that I kept two of the Commissioners one at Each Fort and if we had an Engineer I think for Several Reasons they would be Useful. I am Your Excellencies Most Obedient Humble Servant

James Clinton Coll


Title: General Orders, 23 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, June 23rd 1776.
Parole Cambridge.Countersign Dorchester.

Mutual Complaints having been made by the Armourers, and Soldiers, respecting the repairing of Arms; The Officers of the several regiments, are earnestly called upon, to examine their Men, and turn out all those who can work to any advantage in the Armourers Shop, though they should not be complete workmen; and to prevent further uneasiness, the several Captains are to inspect the arms of their Companies, and either themselves, or by some persons for whom they will be answerable, have the defective Arms sent to the Armourers when the Master Workman will give a receipt for them—the same officer in like manner attending to the return of the arms and to make report if the Armourers fail in their work—The Honor and Safety of the army depends so much upon a strict attention, to the state of the arms, that the General hopes no pains will be spared upon this head.
A Detachment consisting of one Lieut: Colonel, one Major, six Captains, twelve subalterns, eighteen Serjeants, eighteen Corporals, six Drums & Fifers, and three hundred Privates to parade to morrow morning, at the Grand parade, at eight OClock with their arms, ammunition and blankets, to have four days provisions, there to receive their orders from Genl Putnam—Lieut: Col. Jacobs, and Major Colbourne to be the Field Officers of the above detachment.
The sentries at the Laboratory and Artillery Park to be doubled every night ’till further orders—The Brigade Majors will strengthen these Guards with an addition of men for that purpose.
Major Trumbull being promoted, Adjutant Peek of Col. Huntingtons Regiment, to act as Brigade Major to General Spencers brigade, ’till further appointment is made.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel James Clinton, 23 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

sir
Head-Quarters N. York June 23d 1776

Yours of the 20th & 22d Inst. are both safe to hand, the person you was to seize by warrant, you are Immediately to send with the papers on to this place in charge of an Officer you can confide in, in this no time is to be lost, It is out of my power to assist you in procureing Arms, must therefore urge you to make application to the Convention Committees &c. who I hope will supply you, your letter of the 20th I shall answer the first Opportunity—am in haste. sir Your Most Humble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 23 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
New York June 23d 1776

I herewith transmit you an Extract of a Letter from Genl Ward which came to hand by last nights post containing the agreable Intelligence of their having Obliged the Kings Ships to leave Nantasket road, and of Two Transports more being taken by our Armed Vessels with Two hundred and Ten Highland Troops on board.
I sincerely wish the like success had attended our Arms in another Quarter, but It has not. In Canada the situation of our Affairs is truly alarming—The Inclosed Copies of Genls Schuyler, Sullivan & Arnold’s Letters will inform you, that Genl Thompson has met with a repulse at Three Rivers, and is now a prisoner in the hands of Genl Burgoyne, who these accounts say is arrived with a considerable Army: Nor do they seem to promise an end of our misfortunes here. It is greatly to be feared that the next advices from thence will be, that our shattered, divided & broken Army, as you will see by the return, have been Obliged to Abandon the Country and retreat, to avoid a greater calamity, that of being cut off or becoming prisoners. I will be done upon the Subject, & leave you to draw such conclusions as you conceive from the state of facts are most likely to result only adding my apprehensions that one of the latter events, either that they are cutt off or become prisoners, has already happened If they did not retreat while they had an Opportunity. Genl Schuyler and Genl Arnold seem to think It extremely probable, and If It has taken place, It will not be easy to describe all the fatal consequences that may flow from It. at least our utmost exertions will be necessary to prevent the advantages they have gained being turned to our greater misfortunes—General Gates will certainly set out to morrow & would have gone before now, had he not expected to receive some particular Instructions from Congress, and which Col. Braxton said he immagined would be given and transmitted here.
Inclosed is a Copy of a Letter from Genl Arnold respecting some of the Indian Tribes to Genl Schuyler & of a Talk had at Albany with Thirteen of the Oneidas—they seemed then to entertain a friendly disposition towards us which I wish may not

be changed by the misfortunes we have Sustained in Canada. I have the Honor to be with Sentiments of the highest esteem Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Artemas Ward, 23 June 1776
From: Ward, Artemas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Boston 23 June 1776.

I have the honour of your Letter of the sixteenth Instant. Agreeable to your Directions I have ordered the Court of Enquiry to set for a rehearing of the Complaint of Col. Varnum against Lieut. Merrill.
The Letters to Major Small and Charles Proctor Esqr. I will forward if any opportunity offers.
By desire of Col. Cambell I have inclosed his Letters which he desires may be forwarded if there be no objection to them and an opportunity offers.
General Whetcomb does not accept his appointment, therefore I can have no relief by him, and I am so ill that I can attend but very little to any business.
I have just received information from several Privateers that eleven sail of Transports under convoy of a Frigate, are in the Bay standing in and supposed to be part of the Scotch Fleet; the

privateers are all ordered out, and I have taken measures to secure the Transports in case they should come into Nantasket Road. I am your Excellency’s Obedient most Humble Servant

Artemas Ward


Title: General Orders, 24 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, June 24th 1776.
Parole Dedham.Countersign Essex.

The Guard on the prisoners at the City-hall is to be strenghtned every night as the last, so as to make up one hundred men forty being required from the several brigades.
The General Court Martial now sitting to assemble at the house where the Provost is kept till further orders.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Bromfield and Commodore John Manley, 24 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Bromfield, Henry,Manley, John

Sir
New York June 24. 1776

The Honble Congress having determined a valuation shall be made of the Ordinance Stores taken last fall by Captn Manly,

and directed me to appoint a person in behalf of the Continent to do It in conjunction with one to be chosen by Captn Manly, as you will perceive by the Inclosed Resolve, I must request the favor of you to undertake the business—I have transmitted the Original Invoice to Major Genl Ward upon which you are to act—It will be necessary to qualifye as the Resolve directs, and after the Estimate is made, to annex It to the Invoice under your Hands—Genl Ward will forward It to me when It is finished and praying your excuse for this trouble & liberty I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: Orders and Instructions to Major General Horatio Gates, 24 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

[New York, 24 June 1776]

The Honorable Continental Congress reposing the greatest Confidence in your Wisdom & Experience have directed me to appoint you to the very important Command of the Troops of the United Colonies in Canada: with a Power to appoint a

Deputy Adjutant General, a Deputy Quarter Master General[,] a Deputy Muster Master General & such other Officers as you shall find necessary for the Good of the Service. You are also impowered to fill up all Vacancies in the Army in Canada & notify the same to Congress for their Approbation.
You are also authorized untill the 1st of October next to suspend any Officers & fill up all Vacancies—transmitting to the Honorable Congress such Order of Suspension, giving your Reasons therefor & specifying the special Charge made against such Officer.
You are directed previous to your Departure, to consult with the Commissary General & concert with him the most effectual Measures for continuing proper Supplies of Provisions for that Department.
You are in like Manner to consult with Col. Knox about the Artillery which may be wanted & what may probably be procured there, and whether any Brass or Iron Field Peices can be spared from hence for that Service.
Upon your Arrival at Albany you will consult with General Schuyler with Respect to the present State of Provisions, Stores &c. and fix upon some certain Means of forwarding the regular Supplies in future from that Place. At the same Time endeavour to learn whether Supplies heretofore sent have not reached their Destination, & by what Means such Failures have happened, that a proper Remedy may be provided. From Genl Schuyler you will also receive such Advice & Information respecting the Operations of the Campaign as may be useful & necessary.
You are to direct all the General Officers, Deputy Qr Master General, local Commissaries, Paymaster in Canada & all other Persons there or on the Communication without Delay to render their Accounts & settle them. No General Officer on such Settlement receiving Pay as Colonel of a Regiment or any Field Officer as Captain of a Company.
Upon your taking the Command of the Troops you will give positive Orders agreeable to a Resolve of Congress that no Officer suttle or sell to the Soldiers on Penalty of being fined one Month’s Pay & dismiss’d the Service with Infamy.
That all Sales of Arms, Cloathing, Ammunition & Accoutrements made by Soldiers are to be deemed void. That the Baggage

of Officers & Soldiers is hereafter to be regulated conformably to the Rules of the British Armies.
By a like Resolve no Troops in Canada are to be disbanded there; but all Soldiers in that Country ordered to be disbanded or whose Times of Inlistment being expired shall refuse to reinlist shall be sent under proper Officers to Ticonderoga or such other Post on the Lakes as you shall direct where they are to be mustered, and the Arms[,] Accoutrements, Blankets & Utensils which they may have belonging to the publick shall be delivered up & deposited in the publick Store.
You will as soon as possible make as accurate a Return as you can procure of the Troops, Artillery[,] Arms, Ammunition, Provision & Stores which you find in Canada or upon the Communication with Albany distinguishing where stationed & in what Magazines, ⟨an⟩d if possible transmit such a Return to the Hon. Continental Congress and to me once a Fortnight.
The Distance of the Scene & the frequent Changes which have happened in the State of our Affairs in Canada do not allow me to be more particular in Instructions. The Command is important, the Service difficult but honourable—and I most devoutly pray that Providence may crown your Arms with abundant Success. Given under my Hand at Head Quarters New York June 24th 1776.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General John Sullivan, 24 June 1776
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

My Dear General
Isle Au Noix June 24th 1776

It is with the greatest pain I inform you that after our retreat from Canada, to this place, of which I have given your Excellency, An Acct thro’ General Schuyler, & after I had Determin’d to make a Stand here, Till I receiv’d your Excellencys order, That I find myself under an Absolute Necessity of quiting this Island for a place more healthy. Otherwise the Army will never be able to return, As one fortnight longer in this place will not leave us well men Enough to Carry off the Sick, Exclusive of the publick Stores, Which I preserv’d thus far. The Raging of the Small Pox deprives us of whole Regiments in the Course of a few days, By their being taken down with that Cruel disorder. But this is not all, the Camp Disorder Rages to such a degree, that of the Regiments remaining from Twenty to Sixty in each, Are taken down in a day, And we have nothing to give them but Salt Pork Flour & the Poisonous waters of this Lake. I have therefore Determin’d with the Unanimous voice of the Officers, to remove to Isle Le Mott a place much more healthy than this where, I have some hope we Shall preserve the health of the few men we

have till some order is taken Respecting our future Movements. I think it would be by far, the Best to remove to Crown Point, Fortify that, Build Row-gallies to Command the Lakes, & by Scouting parties to defend our Frontiers, As the Savages have already began upon us. They have made two Attacks upon our men, Kill’d & taken near Twenty, Among which are seven Officers, These officers went on Shore Unarm’d, When I was gone to Reconnoitre Point Au Fer. The Other party went on Shore at River Lecol to Buy Milk They were in Boats Loaded with flour, which they brought off, But had Some men kill’d. The whole of our Loss of Killd & taken Amount to about Twenty. This happen’d in both cases for want of that care which Should ever be taken in an Enemys Country, I hope it will be a warning to our people in future, I hear from all Quarters that the Enemy are very Numerous in Canada. Their Shiping is also Numerous, & it cant be doubted that all the Canadians, & all the Indians in this Quarter, Will be Compell’d to bear Arms against us. This I know they would gladly have avoided. But finding that we are not able to Afford them that protection we promised, They are Oblidged to make their peace in the best manner they can—I think it is now past a Doubt that the Neglect & inattention to this departmt has not only lost us Canada, But Involv’d us in a war, with all the Blacks & whites in this Quarter, & to Check their progress, I know of no better Method than to Secure the Important posts of Ticondaroga & Crown point, & by building a Number of Arm’d Vessels, Command the Lakes, Otherwise the forces now in Canada, Will be brought down upon us, As quick as Possible, having nothing now to Oppose them in that Colony—They have a Number of Batteaus fram’d, Which they brought from three Rivers. They will Doubtless Construct Some Arm’d Vessels, & then Endeavour to penetrate the Country Toward New York, This I am perswaded They will Attempt, But am Sure they can never Effect, Unless w[e] Neglect to Secure the important posts now in our power. I have wrote General Schuyler & wait with impatience for his answer, As I know that no time ought to be Lost, in fortifying this place or Crown point. If I attempt to fortify here & afterward am order’d to leave it, I Shall Strengthen the Enemy by preparing a work for them, Which I would not Willing do. If I am to tarry & fortify here, I should be glad to know it as soon as possible, That I may put the order in

Execution, but I must Say that unless our men grow much more healthy, Our army here will be no kind of Check upon the Enemy, After remaining in this Low Marsh for a few Weeks Longer, I Inclose your Excellency a Genl Return drawn from the returns made the day before Yesterday, Since which I Suppose near a Quarter part have been taken down with the Camp disorder, This however Incredible it may Seem Is a real fact, For Instance Colonel Waine has Sixty out of One hundred & Thirty eight taken down Since, Colo. De Haas & all his Field Officers with a number of his men, are since taken down, This Seems to Run thro the whole, No Corps being Exempt from it, I am Shock’d to relate but much more to See this dreadful Havock among the Troops.
I inclose your Excellency a Return of the Ordinance & Stores at St Johns on the 12th Instant, The whole could not in our Confus’d State be procur’d. As to the Provisions, as Some are on Board the Arm’d Vessels, Some at this place & Some at Isle Le Mott, (which were never brought further down) I can make no Accurate Return at present. I will have one made as Soon as possible & forward it, And Send Regular Returns in future I dont despair of getting this Army yet into some kind of Order & Regulations, but I must Confess, That it is a Work of time & trouble, As order & Regularity Seem to have been Strangers in this Northern Army.
I Recd your Excellencys favour of the 13th Instant am Extremely Sorry it was not in my power to fullfil Your Excellencys wishes, By Leading on our troops to Victory. The Reason for my not being able has Doubtless long since reached you in my Letters, Giving an Acct of the Strength of the Enemy, The Weakness of our army, & the Unhappy defeat of Genl Thompson at three rivers—As also of the Result of our Councils of War, in Canada, I think we Shall Secure all the publick Stores & Baggage of the Army, & Secure our retreat with very little Loss. Whether we Shall have well men Enough to Carry them on, I much doubt If we dont remove Quickly, unless Heaven is pleas’d to restore health to this Wretched Army, Now perhaps the most pitiful one that ever was form’d.
There is no return of Colo. Pattersons Regimt, As he has but five men here fit for duty, Which I this Day order’d to Crown Point, To Join the Rest of the Regiment, which are all Sick there

You may Assure yourself my Dear Genl that Nothing shall be Wanting on my part, to restore order among the Troops here, & to recover their Health, As also to throw every Stumbling Block in the way of the Enemy, that Lays in the power of Your Excellencys Most Affectionate humble Servant

Jno. Sullivan


Title: General Orders, 25 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, June 25th 1776.
Parole Epsom.Countersign Falkland.

The Militia Officers of the adjoining provinces who are to reinforce this army, are upon their arrival with their troops, to make report immediately, to the Brigadier General, or the officer commanding their respective Corps, who is to make report once in two days to the Commander in Chief.
The Adjutant General’s Office will be removed this afternoon to a small brick house, one of the offices belonging to Head Quarters—The Brigade Majors are requested to attend there punctually hereafter, at eleven o’clock, except those at a distance, who may send an Adjutant, but the orders will not be given to any person of less rank in future.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Benedict Arnold, 25 June 1776
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Albany June 25th 1776

By this express, you will receive advice From Genl Schuyler of our evacuateing Canada, an event which I make no doubt (from our distressed situation) you have some time expected, the particulars of Genl Thompsons repulse, & Captivity, as nearly as could be ascertained, have ben transmitted, you. on advice of which, very direct Intelligence that the Enemy were greatly superior to us In numbers, I advised Genl Sullivan to secure his retreat by retireing to St Johns. he was determined to keep his Post at Sorell, If posible & did not retire untill the 14th Inst. at which time the Enemy were as high up with their Ships as the Sorell—The 15th at Night when the Enemy were at Twelve Miles distance from me I quitted Montreal, with my little Garrison of Three hundred Men[.] The whole Army with their Baggage & Cannon, (except three heavy peices left at Chamble), Arived at St Johns the 17th & at the Ile Aux Noix the 18th previous to which it was Determined by a Counsil of Warr, at St Johns that in Our distressed Situation, (One half of the Army Sick & allmost the whole, destitute of Cloathing & every necessary of Life except Salt Pork & Flour) It was not only Imprudent but Impracticable to keep Possession of St Johns.
Crown Point, was Judged the only place of health & Safety to which the Army could retire, and Oppose the Enemy, it was found Necessary to remain at the Ile aux Noix, for some few days untill the Sick heavy Cannon &c. could be removed, Genl Sullivan did not Chuse to leave the Ile aux Noix, untill he received positive Orders for that purpose, & thought it necessary for me to repair to this place & wait on Genl Schuyler, I arived here last night & am happy to find him of our sentiments In quitting the Ile Aux Noix, which from it’s low situation Is rendrd very unhealthy, & from the Narrow Channell leading to it from the S. Part of lake Champlain of Six Miles in length & from three to eight hundred yards in breadth is rendred very |insecure, as the enemy by light pieces Cannon & Small Arms, might render all Access to it dangerous If not Impracticable. It now appears to me of the Utmost Importance, that the lake be emediately secured by a large Number of (at least Twenty or |thirty) Gundaloes Row Gallies & floating Batteries, the Enemy

from undoubted intelligence have brought over a large Number (it Is said One hundred) Frames for Flat Bottom Boats design’d to be made use on lake Champlain, and from their Industry & Strength will doubtless become masters of the lake, unless Every nerve on our part is Strained to exceed them in a Naval Armament. I think it absolutely necessary that at least three hundred Carpenters be emediatley employd Fifty Sent from Philadelphia, who are acquainted with Building those kind of Craft would greatly Facilitate the matter—A particular return of the Army could not be obtained, in our hurry and Confusion it will be transmitted you in a few days I believe the whole abt Seven thousand, & at least One half of them Sick & unfit for duty, but daily recovering Upwards of One thousand more are yet to have the small Pox, the Enemy from the best Intelligence that can be obtained, are, near Ten thousand exclusive of Canadians & Savages, few of the Latter have Joined them, as yet.
I make no doubt it will be thought Necessary to repair Crown Point, or build a new Fort Near that Place, the former from, the Advantage of It’s Situation, & the fine Barracks nearly Compleated will I believe be thought most proper, I make no Doubt but Genl Gates, whom I am happy to hear, ⟨is on⟩ his way here will pay Emediate attention to it.
I flatter my Self our Arms under your Emediate direction will meet with more Success than they have done in this quarter, I make not the least doubt our Strugles will be Crowned with Success, I am with every Friendly wish, most respectfully Dear Genl Your affectionate & obedt Humble Servt

B. Arnold


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Jacob Bayley, 25 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Bayley, Jacob

Sir
New York June 25. 1776

I this morning recd yours of the 28 Ulto and approve the measures you had adopted for opening the road to St Johns, which may be still proper to pursue—But as our Army in Canada since their retreat from Quebec has met with further misfortunes and there is the strongest reason to believe they will

be Obliged to Abandon the possession of that Country, If they have not already done It, I would advise you to consider well the Advantages and disadvantages that will result from compleating the work—If the Enemy will be thereby afforded an easy pass to make Incursions into our Colonies & to commit depredations, and the advantage we shall derive from It will not greatly overbalance these Inconveniences, It will be improper to carry It on—The change which has taken place in our Affairs in that Quarter may render now, what was extremely right to be done some time agoe very inexpedient & unadvisable—As you are well acquainted with the Country thro which the communication was designed to be made, and I am not—I shall submit the propriety of compleating It to you, under the circumstances I have ment[ione]d not meaning to direct you to one thing or another.
I presume you received my Letter of the 29th of April and the Two hundred & fifty pounds I sent by Mr Wallace—you have not mentioned It. I am Sir &c.

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from William Burnet, 25 June 1776
From: Burnet, William
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency
Newark June 25 1776

Agreeable to your Excellencys Desire I have called together the Committee of the County of Essex & laid before them the Letter you was pleased to send me of the 21st instt. The Committee sent for David Ogden Esq. & enquired of him, from whom he received the Intelligence of the Rifle Guards agreeing for a Sum of Money to carry a Person on board the Men of War—He informed the Committee that about three Weeks ago, he was on Long-Island in Compa[n]y with Mr Alexander Wallace, who told him, that the Rifle Guards could easily be bribed & in Confirmation of it said, that the Rifle Guards on Long Island near the Fishing Place, had agreed to set a Person on board one of the Men of War, for a Reward of a Number of Dollars, but how many he cannot remember—Mr Ogden says now, he cannot be certain, whether Mr Wallace told hi⟨m⟩ that he

himself tempted the Guards or that another Gentleman told him, that he had done it—But I perfectly remember that when Mr Ogden told me the Story, which was soon after he heard it, I understood him that the Person who made the Experiment told him of it himself & as I thought it a Matter of Importance, as soon as he had finished the relation I asked him particularly, whether the Gentleman who offe⟨r⟩ed the Bribe & whom they agreed to carry on board the Men of War told him of it himself & he answered yes he di⟨d.⟩ Mr Ogden mentioned to the Committee one Circumstance which he did not tell me of before, that the Guards when they engaged to go on board, said they must not return—Mr Wallace is out of our District or we would call upon him with Pleasure—If the Gentlemen within whose Jurisdiction he ⟨is⟩ properly apply to him, perhaps the whole Affair may be brough⟨t⟩ to Light—I am your Excellency’s most obedt humble Servt

Wm Burnet Chairman


Title: From George Washington to Colonel James Clinton, 25 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, James

Sir
New York June 25. 1776

I received yours of the 20 Instt and in answer thereto request you to draw out of your Regiment all the Armourers in It and set them immediately to work—they will receive the same pay as the Armourers here do under the like circumstances—you must endeavour to engage the one you mention on the same Terms that are given here, but If you can not do better, you will continue him on those contained in your Letter.
In respect to keeping two Commission[e]rs, If they are absolutely necessary It must be done, till you are provided with an

Engineer or so long as they may be wanted. But will not one be sufficient? If It will, two need not be retained.
It being impossible to procure a sufficient number of Tents for the whole Army, It will be necessary for you to Collect a parcel of Thin boards & have them put up to answer the purpose—this is now doing for Genl Scotts Militia Brigade to be quartered here & do exceedingly well.
I cannot but consider the pay of the Carpenters, enormous & extravagant—nor can I suggest any good reason why they should receive more than those employed here—some of which, for (Instance Bruen Company of Artificers from the Jerseys) are compleat workmen and can execute almost any kind of Work in the best manner—I request your exertions to lessen their pay and to prevail on them to receive no more than what is given here.
The Pay Rolls will be settled by the Provincial Congress up to the last of April Inclusive as has been done with the other Troops raised in this Colony—The Abstracts after that time will be taken in & paid by me as others are.
I observe by the Returns that your Regiment is still extremely deficient in Arms, which is a circumstance highly distressing at this time—As I have no prospect of getting any, unless some unforeseen fortunate event should cast up that I know nothing of, I request you to have no dependance on me for a supply, and that you will use every possible method you can devise to procure what you want from the Country people or wheresoever they can be had by purchasing them. I am Sir, Your most Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. The Province powder that you have in hand & which is made up in Cartridges, you must not part ⟨w⟩ith by any means—⟨but⟩ repay the Quantity out of what you shall receive from the Continent.


Title: To George Washington from Matthew Griswold, 25 June 1776
From: Griswold, Matthew
To: Washington, George

Sr
Fairfield [Conn.] June 25th 1776

I have to acquaint your Excellency that the Delay of Dischardging the pay Roll of the Regiment under the Command of Colo. G: S: Silliman Sent from this Colony in the late Campaign to New York—Greatly obstructs the Raising the New Levies orderd by the late Act of our Assembly: many of the Men in this part of the Colony proper for the Service Decline to Inlist till they are paid their former Wages: Colo. Talcott was orderd by our Assembly to Receive the pay for this Regimt but Inadvertently omiting to take the proper Credentials was able to obtain none but for his own Regiment.
Colo. Silliman has now Sent Mr Davenport a Young Gentleman of known Fidelity to make a New Application for the Money I Suppose he is Furnished with the proper Credentials for that purpose hope he will Succeed.
Colo. Silliman is a Worthy officer has an appointment for the present Service his Attention to give all possible Dispatch to the Service prevents waiting on you Personally I hope my Zeal for the Cause & the great Distance from Govr Trumbull will Excuse this freedom—from your Excellencys Most Obedt humble Servt

Matthw Griswold


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 25 June 1776
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia June 25th 177[6]

Your Favour of the 21st Inst. by Mr Bennet with the Enclosure were duely received and laid before Congress, as you will perceive by the enclosed Resolves, to which I beg Leave to request your Attention.
Altho the Commissioners have undoubtedly mistaken the Intention of Congress, yet the Terms, in which The Resolve is conceived, viz. “That the General be empow[e]red to employ in Canada a Number of Indians not exceeding two Thousand,” may at first View seem to confine their Employment to the Limits of that Provence, and to give a Latitude of Construction as to the Place in which they are to be raised. And in this Sense

they must have been understood by Genl Schuyler and the other Commissioners. I am however to request, you will give Orders to have a Stop put to raising the Mohickan & Stockbridge Indians as soon as possible. I shall write Governor Trumbull to the same Purpose.
The Conduct of the Quarter Master General in detaining the Tents sent from this Place to Massachtts Bay, is a Stretch of Office, which, however well meant, is certainly a very extraordinary one. You will therefore be pleased to order them to be delivered up and forwarded to the Massachusetts Bay, as soon as possible.
The other Resolves, herewith transmitted, calculated to suppress Insurrections, and to promote good Order and Obedience to Laws in the United Colonies, are so full and explicit, that I need not enlarge. It is sufficient to observe, that internal Convulsions do always extremely weaken the Force and Springs of Government, and must necessarily render its operations against foreign Enemies less vigorous and decisive.
Applications having been made to Congress with Regard to Victualling the flying Camp, I am directed to request you will inform them what is the Cost of a Ration as furnished by the Commissary General.
The several Matters in your Letters are before a Committee. The Proposal respecting a Troop of Horse is liked; and as soon as the Committee bring in their Report, and it is considered, you shall be made acquainted with the Result. I have the Honour to be Sir your most obedt & very hble Servant

John Hancock Presidt


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 25 June 1776
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Albany June 25th 1776 1 O’Clock A.M.

About an Hour ago General Arnold, who is arrived here from Canada sent me a Letter from General Sullivan inclosing one from General Arnold to him, another of Colonel Hazen and a third from Lieutenant Colonel Antill; Copies of all which I do myself the Honor to enclose—The Grief I feel on the Evacuation of Canada by our Troops, is greatly alleviated by the little Loss sustained in the Retreat and the Hope I have that we shall maintain a Superiority on the Lakes.
Your Excellency will observe that General Sullivan intimates that farther than the Isle aux Noix he could not retreat without your Excellency’s or my Orders; previous to which he observes that the Council of War were unanimous for coming to Crown point—I do not hesitate to say that I wish he had retreated, at least as far South as point au Fere or Isle la mott, as I am afraid that the Enemy will throw themselves between him and the broad part of Lake Champlain and render it extremely difficult, if not impossible to send on a Supply of provisions, as they can with light Cannon and even Wall pieces command the Waters from Shore to Shore in most places, for six Miles South of Isle au Noix and in many even with Musquetry.
Did not the Danger of remaining there, especially with an Army broken and spiritless, and who wish so much to come farther South, that the officers as General Arnold informs me have already in a Body intreated him to come away appear to me too great to admit of the Delay of waiting your Excellency’s Orders—I should not send mine for a farther Retreat untill your pleasure could be known; but I trust I shall be justified in doing it, and yet I believe the Order will meet the Army on this Side of Isle au Noix.
Be pleased to order up six Anchors and Cables for the Gundaloes that are constructing of the Size of what is called the small Anchor and Cable of an Albany Sloop.
I shall immediately write to Governor Trumbull to procure

fifty Ship Carpenters if he can, and send for a like Number to the Massachusetts Bay.
If any Dutch Mill Saws can be procured at New York be pleased to order up four Dozen with six Dozen of Files for them.
Having learned that General Gates is upon his Way up I have ordered a Boat down to meet him. I am Dear General with Every Sentiment of Esteem & respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Hue Servt

Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General John Sullivan, 25 June 1776
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
[Île aux Noix, Quebec] June 25th 1776

This morning at Day break I rece’d your Excellencys favour of the 16 Instant—am Extremely mortified to find that Every thing here has Turned out Contrary to my Expectations & your Excellencys wishes This was not owing to my being Deceived with Respect to the Enemy on the ground at the time I wrote but to the Sudden arrival of Such a number under General Burgoyne the night before the battle of Three Rivers of which I have given a full & perfect account in former Letters—I am Conscious of having Done Every thing in my power to gain the ground our Troops had Lost & to Secure the Retreat of the Army when I found our point could not be carried I Imagine that General Schuyler forgot to Inclose the Return as I think it went from me at the time but I am not Clear whether it did not go in a Separate Letter I Dare Say it has Reached you before this I now Enclose another which wish Safe to hand & hope to have a more Compleat & perfect one in a few Days which I Shall forward to your Excellency.
I am well Convinced of the Necessity of a good understanding being kept up Among the officers of the Army This has been remarkably the Case Since my arrival I have not Seen an Instance to the Contrary Except Some few Reflections which Seemed to take place between the Northern & Southern Troops which I hope I have Sufficiently Cured by calling upon the officers of Every Corps & requesting them to Surpress a Thing which if Continued must weaken if not Destroy the Army they all agreed to Join heartily in putting an End to this Dangerous behaviour among the troops which I am Convinced they did as I have heard nothing of it Since & find that Harmony takes place among the troops in a Surprizing manner in all our Difficulties there Seemed a unanimity of Sentiment among all the officers—Indeed I have not known the Least Dispute among them the unfortunate General Thompson the Baron de Woedkle & Myself were at Sorell Never did greater harmony and friendships Exist General Arnold was at montreal & kept up the most friendly Intercourse & Correspondence with us & we with him it is true I thought the keeping Colo. De Haas from Sorell was wrong but only Supposed it an Error in Judgment as I did that

of his keeping the forces in too great numbers at the post up Country Th⟨is⟩ I communicated to him in the most friendly manner which he Accounted for in a way that Convinced me that he Acted not without Some foundation Though I Think it would have been better had it not been Done—assure yourself my Dear General that I will Exert myself in Cultivating Harmony & friendship among both officers & Soldiers in the Army & That I am with the most profound Respect your Excellenceys most Devoted Humble Servant

Jno. Sullivan

P.S: The Brigade major & adjutant of the Day have this moment informed me that while they were parading the main Guard four men Dropd Down under Arms & appeared Like Dead men. I am almost Distracted with the thought of Loosing So many men as Daily go off by Sickness I Shall to Day remove from this Infectious place to Isle Le Mott which I Should have done before now had not too many of our Batteaus gon forward with the Sick to Crown point. Yr Excys most obedt Servt

J. Sullivan


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Tupper, 25 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Tupper, Benjamin

Sir
New York June 25th 1776.

I this morning Received Information that One or more Boats have pass’d thro: the Narrows in defiance of the fire from the Rifle Men, who had no Boats to pursue them, this passage I had reason to suppose was properly guarded by the Whale Boats under your Command—and am not a little surprized on hearing the Contrary—I do expect you will for the future have them rowing across the Narrows from Dusk of the Evening to day light in the morning, giveing Orders to each Boat to keep the strictest look out, as there is no doubt our Inveterate Enemies who have had a hand in the late horrid Plot will try every

method in their power to escape from the hands of Justice. I am sir. Yours &c.

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Artemas Ward, 26 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Ward, Artemas

Sir
New York June 26. 1776

Being in the greatest distress here for Arms without the most distant prospect of obtaining a Supply, and as Several have been lately brought into Boston belonging to the Highlanders That have been taken, I request that you will immediately forward the remaing Two Hundred Carbines which in my Letter of the 28 Ulto I desired to be kept at Boston to the person at Norwich to whose care the others were Intrusted, with orders to send them here with all possible dispatch together with the three hundred mentioned in your Letter of the 9 Inst., remaing part of my former order which have not yet arived here—You will direct him to send the whole by Land in Waggons without delay, If when they arrive there, there shall appear the least risk in their coming by Water.
The places of these last Two hundred can be supplied out of the Arms lately taken, an exact return of which with the amount of the prisoners & stores If any I shall be glad to have transmitted me. I am &c.

G.W.


Title: General Orders, 27 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, New York, June 27th 1776.
Parole Halifax.Countersign Ireland.

Several persons having been detained by Sentries, notwithstanding their having given the Countersign at night, and others in the day time on the wharves on a pretence of their not having passes—The General forbids such practices, and any Soldier convicted of them in future will be punished—Officers of guards to be careful, in posting their Sentries, to make them acquainted with this order.
After Orders. Thomas Hickey belonging to the Generals Guard having been convicted by a General Court Martial whereof Col. Parsons was President of the crimes of “Sedition and mutiny, and also of holding a treach’rous correspondence with the enemy, for the most horrid and detestable purposes,” is sentenced to suffer death. The General approves the sentence, and orders that he be hanged to morrow at Eleven oClock.
All the officers and men off duty, belonging to Genl Heath’s, Spencer’s, Lord Stirling’s and Genl Scott’s Brigades, to be under arms, on their respective parades, at Ten o’Clock to morrow morning, to march from thence to the Ground, between Genl Spencer’s and Lord Stirling’s encampments, to attend the execution of the above sentence.
The Provost Marshal immediately to make the necessary preparations, and to attend on that duty to morrow.
After Orders. Each of the Brigade Majors to furnish the Provost Marshal, with twenty men, from each Brigade, with good arms and bayonets, as a guard on the prisoner to and at the place of execution.


Title: Council of War, 27 June 1776
From: Council of War
To:

[New York, 27 June 1776]

At a Council of General Officers, held at Head Quarters June 27. 1776.
Present his Excelle. General Washington Brig. Generals: Heath, Spencer, Green, Ld Stirling, Mifflin & Scott.
The General communicated to the Council the Proceedings of the Court Martial on Thomas Hickey—when he was unanimously advised to confirm the Sentence & that it be put in Execution tomorrow at 11 oClock, For which Purpose the General to issue his Warrant.
Major Rogers having been brought before this Council of Officers from Amboy where he has been for several Days—the Members were unanimously of Opinion that he should proceed to Philad. under an Escort & that at the same Time a Letter be wrote to Congress informing them that under all Circumstances he is not to be sufficiently relied on.
The General read a Letter recd from Col. Creary & Capt. Livingston informing that the Committee took Surety for the good Behaviour of the Prisoners & discharged them—Unanimously agreed—that the General write to the Provincial Congress informing them of the Transactions there & that they will Order therein—& also that all Persons apprehended be detained untill such Direction be obtained.
Advised unanimously—That all the Stock & Horses except what is absolutely necessary for the Support of the Inhabitants be removed from Long Island, Staten Island & the adjoining Coasts & that Application be made to the provincial Congress to assist in carrying this Measure into Execution.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel James Clinton, 27 June 1776
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

May it Please Your Excellency
Fort Constitution [N.Y.]June 27th 1776

The Warrant you Sent me Against Fletcher Mathews Esqr. I Executed Agreble to Your Excellencys Directions and After Bringing him to New Windsor with all his Papers in Order to Send him to New York Agreable to Your Instructions of the 23d Inst. (by Express) I Received the Inclosed Order from Congress Countermanding the Warrant I had Against the Said Fletcher and Although your Letter is of a Later Date then the Inclosed I Imagine you were not Informed of the Mistake Therefore I Allowed him to Return Home upon his Promiseing to Appear at any time and place that I shall Appoint I have all his Papers Includeing Deeds Bonds Letters &c. but I have found nothing Material in them that would be any Evidence Agt him After I took him I Charged him with being guilty of Engageing Men for the Kings Service &c. which he Denied and Offered to Sware that he knew Nothing About the Matter and that he had not Secreted any papers from me nor Neither had he Received or Sent any Leters to his Brother David or any Body Else that Could Appear Against him to Make him guilty he Seemed to Deliver his Papers freely and said as he was not guilty he was not Concerned About his going to New York only for the fatigue which he was Afraid he would not be Able to bear as he is Unfirm his papers I will Keep for A Security of his Appearence till I Receive Your further Orders his Brother James Agt whom the Warrant was Intended was first taken and I Suppose is now in New York.

Your Letter of the 25th Inst. I Just now Received and will Endeavour to Act Agreable to Your Instructions but we are Intirely out of Nails. the Nailer who Suplyed the Commitioners here has Disapointed us So that we Cannot Cover the Armourers Shop the Barracks Nor Build Shades or Huts to Answer the Militia Boards I Supose we Can get out of an Albany Sloop very Soon I have Sent to Goshen for Nails but I am Afraid we will not be Able to get many there if any I Send the Bearer Lieut. Smith to New York to try to get Nails &c. and A Little Money for the Publick Service will be wanting here to Purchase Sundries.
As for the Carpenters wages here they Agreed with the Commitioners and I believe the Best way to Lower their wages will be to Send some Carpenters from New York if they Can be Spared as we have but few here we will want more at any Rate.
I Dont know what we will Do for Arms as I understand the Militia Sent Down from the Counties Are Deficient Lieut. Coll James McClaughry Desired me to Inform you that though he had Promised to Provide Arms for all the Men that turned out of his Regt of Millitia he was Deficient and was Afraid he Could not make up the Compliment of Arms by Abt Seven I Propose to Send Majr Schuyler to Albany & Dutches County to try if he Can Provide any Arms there.
Inclosed is a List of Necessarys wanted here which I Send the Bearer for. I am Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servant

James Clinton Coll

I Send Capt. Palmer with a Sloop of his Employed here for the within Articles as they Are much wanted I hope Lieut. Smith will be Dissmised as soon as Possible Coll Humphrey with part of his Regt is Just Come Down from Dutchess County I have Ordered him to Fort McGomery as there is more Room there than at this place I will Send a Return of the Garrison at both Forts the first opportunity.

James Clinton Coll


Title: To George Washington from Colonel James Clinton, 27 June 1776
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

May it please Your Excellency
June 27th 1776at Fort Constitution [N.Y.]

Since I wrote to You I Rece[ive]d the within Letter but I think it Necessary to have Your Orders before I Comply with the within Request I hear the Committees have taken Coll Cadwallader

Colden on Suspicion of being an Enemy to the Liberties of America but what they will Do with him I Cannot tell Lawer Cranney who has Left Poug[h]keepsie some time ago and has been Advertised there is Likewise taken by the Committees and Sent Back by a Guard to Poughkeepsie. I am Dr Genl Your Most Obedient Humle Sert

James Clinton Coll


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Joseph Davison, 27 June 1776
From: Davison, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Arm’d Sloop Schuyler June 27th 1776

Since our Last We have In Company with Capt. Rogers of the Arm’d Sloop Montgomery Retaken 4 Prises, which was taken by the Greyhound Man of War bound for Sandy hook, 2 Brigs Belonging to Nantucket with oil one has near 500 Barrels on Board & the other 150 Also A Schooner & A Sloop the Schooner Belonging to Cape Ann Loaded with Molasses & some Sugar The Sloop Outward Bound Belonging to Rhode Island Loaded With flour & Lumber We have Inteligence by one of

the Prisoners that A fleet of 130 Sail, Sailed from Halifax the 9th Inst. for Sandy Hook & that Genll How Is on Board the Greyhound which We Suppos’d Pass’d us 3 Days Ago We having observ’d A Ship to the Westward of us About that Time Standing for Sandy Hook, Capt. Rogers has Apply’d to the Committee for A Guard which they have Supply’d us With & Shall Send the Prisoners as Soon as Possible.

Joseph Davison, Lieut.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 27 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
New York June 27th 1776

I this morning received by Express Letters from Genls Schuyler & Arnold, with a Copy of one from Genl Sullivan to the former and also of Others to Genl Sullivan, of all which I do myself the honor to transmit you Copies. they will give you a further account of the melancholy situation of our affairs in Canada, and shew that there is nothing left to save our Army there, but evacuating the Country. I am hopefull Genl Sullivan would retreat from the Isle au noix without waiting for previous orders for that purpose, as from Genls Schuyler and Arnolds Letters, It is much to be feared by remaining there any considerable

time his retreat would be cut off or at best be a matter of extreme difficulty. I would observe to Congress that It is not in my power to send any Carpenters from hence, to build the Gondola’s & Gallies, Genl Arnold mentions, without taking them from a work equally necessary if not more so here of the same kind, and submit It to them whether It may not be advisable, as It is of great importance to us to have a number of these Vessels on the Lake, to prevent the Enemy passing, to withdraw the Carpenters for the present from the frigates building up the North River & detach them immediately with all that can be got at Philadelphia for that purpose & carrying on those here.
I have the pleasure to inform you of another Capture made by our Armed Vessels of a Transport on the 19 Instant with a Company of Highland Grenadiers on board—the Inclosd extract of a Letter from Genl Ward by last nights post contains the particulars, to which I beg leave to refer you.
I have been honoured with your favors of the 21st and 25th Instant in due order with their important inclosures, to which I shall particularly attend. I have transmitted Genl Schuyler a Copy of the Resolve of Congress respecting the Mohickan & Stockbridge Indians & directed him to put an immediate stop to the raising the two Companies.
The Quarter Master Genl has been called upon for stopping the Tents designed for Massachusets bay & ordered to forward them immediately—he means to write Congress upon the Subject and hopes his conduct will not appear to deserve their reprehension, of this they will Judge from his relation of the matter.
Being extremely desirous to forward the Intelligence from Canada to Congress, well knowing their anxiety about our Affairs there, I must defer writing upon some other matters I want to lay before them, till the next oppotunity, which I hope will be to morrow, when I will inform them fully upon the Subject of Rations having desired the Comy Genl to furnish me with some things necessary in that Instance. I have the honor to be with sentiments of great respect Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 27 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
New York June 27th 1776.

Upon information that Major Rogers was travelling thro’ the Country under suspicious circumstances I thought it necessary to have him secured. I therefore sent after him. He was taken at South Amboy and brought up to New York. Upon examination he informed Me that he came from New Hampshire, the Country of his usual Abode, where [he] had left his family; and pretended he was destined to philadelphia, on business with Congress.
As by his own Confession he had crossed Hudson’s River at New Windsor, and was taken so far out of his proper and direct Rout to philadelphia, this Consideration added to the Length of Time he had taken to perform his Journey, his being found in so suspicious a place as Amboy, his unnecessary Stay there, on pretence of getting some baggage from New York, and an expectation of receiving Money from a person here of bad Character, and in no Circumstances to furnish him out of his

own Stock, the Major’s reputation, and his being an half pay Officer has encreased my Jealousies about him.
The Business which he informs Me he has with Congress is a secret Offer of his Services; to the End that in Case it should be rejected, he might have his Way left open to an employment in the East Indies to which he is assigned, and in that Case he flatters himself he will obtain Leave of Congress to go to Great Britain.
As he had been put upon his parole by Congress, I thought it would be improper to stay his progress to Philadelphia, should he be in fact destined thither. I therefore send him forward; but (to prevent Imposition) under the Care of an Officer, with Letters found upon him, which from their Tenor seem calculated to recommend him to Congress.
I submit it to their Consideration, whether it would not be dangerous to accept of the Offer of his Services. I am Sir with the greatest respect & esteem Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Hawley, 27 June 1776
From: Hawley, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Watertown [Mass.] June 27th 1776

For God’s Sake! If it is possible Let all Ward’s People be instantly orderd to Canada or to Some place where they are More Needed than they are here—Pray Sr Consider that they are Officerd Armed and equipd in all respects—Every thing is to

do for the Militia—Our People will fight here pro Aris & focis—But very few of them (Believe Me) will be got to Canaday this year—I Pray your Excellency to Pardon My troublesome repetitions of this Matter to you—I am here and See the true state and posture of affairs.
No place on the Continent I conceive More Secure than Boston. I am (May it please your Excellency) Yours, with the highest esteem, warmest affection and firmest Attachment

Joseph Hawley


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier Generals William Heath, Joseph Spencer, Nathanael Greene, and Lord Stirling, 27 June 1776
From: Heath, William,Spencer, Joseph,Greene, Nathanael,Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

June 27: 1776.

In Considering the Several Matters which your Excellency has been pleased to referr to us; we do with regard to Long Island and Staten Island think it absolutely Necessary for the Safety & defence of this Colony that all the Stock of Cattle and Sheep (Except such as may be requisite for the present Subsistance of the Inhabitants) be removed to a distance from the Sea Coast and that this be done immediately; as on the Arrival of the Enemy it will be impossible to give attention to this Matter. And Also that all the Horses be either removed or put under such regulations as that they may be removed on the first Approach of the Enemy. and with regard to the disaffected Inhabitants who have lately been apprehended we think that the Method at present Adopted by the County Committee of discharging them on their giving bonds as a Security for their good behaviour is very improper and ineffectual, and there fore recommend it to your Excellency to Apply to the Congress of this province to take some more Effectual Method of Secureing the good behaviour of those people and in the Mean time that your Excellency will order the officer in whose Custody they Are to

discharge no more of them untill the Sense of Congress be had thereon.

            W Heath
            Stirling

            Jos: Spencer
            Nathanael Greene


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 27 June 1776
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear Sir,
New York June the 27th 1776.

Congress having disapproved the Proceedings of the Commissioners at Albany on the 13th instant, transmitted them in my Letter of the 21st, so far as they relate to raising two Companies of Mohikander & stockbridge Indians; in Compliance with their Resolve, a Copy of which is inclosed, I am to request You to put the most Early & speedy Stop to the same. The Honble President observes in his Letter, that the Resolve of Congress for Employing Indians is Conceived in such Terms, as to give at first View a Latitude of Construction as to the Place in which they are to be raised, & the Commissioners must have so understood It, which lead to the Mistake. I am Dr Sir, Your Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Trumbull, 27 June 1776
From: Trumbull, Joseph
To: Washington, George

27th June 1776

I have Directed The Commissary General to give me information of the Value of Rations as he Issues them—& am told as heretofore that by the nearest & best computation he can make, a Ration from the 1st July to 1st Decr next will, be worth from 8d. to 8½d. each, Currency of New York—I am likewise told

that Mr Wharton’s proposal for Supplying, the Troops to be Collected & fixed in New Jersey, is for 8½d. Currency of Pensilvania—& that on the Computation of the Ods of the two Currency’s, only, & 12,000 men, Mr Wharton must make more than £10,000, by the Bargain, when you give the Commissary Genll but £540 ⅌ annum Wages for Supplying those Troops, the Troops here, & in New England & in Canada—by the Same way of Computation if he had Mr W.’s Profit he must make about 60,000 ⅌ anum the difference is Immense—If any Person is to be favd with a Lucrative Contract, I think the Commissary Genll ought to have the first offer—or Mr Livingston ought to be reinstated in his Contract—But beside the Sum above mentioned to be made by the Bargain, it will Introduce, all the Confusion, imaginable, which I heretofore pointed out in the Case of Mr Livingston’s Supplying part of the Army & the Commissary General the rest—it is more than probable the Army here & in Jersey must Join, or Party’s at least from each—those partly, Suppli’d partly by one & partly by another must Introduce, double Supplys in many, & Confusion of Accts in every Instance for Heavens Sake Supply the Army wholly in one way or the other, & by the foregoing representation, I can’t think you can be at a loss in the Matter—Beside, I am told by the Comry Genll that he has already made Provision in New Jersey to supply the Troops to be fixed there, & the proper persons of that Colony Employed to do every part of the Business under him.
Sir The foregoing is a representation of the matter of Rations, as you requested me to make it. I am your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble servt

Jos. Trumbull