Title: General Orders, 15 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

                        Head-Quarters V. Forge Monday June 15th 1778.
                        Parole Bohemia—C. Signs Boston. Bolton—

                    ’Till the duties of the office of Inspector General shall be defined and fixed by Congress, the Commander in Chief thinks proper to establish the following Plan.
                    The Functions of it are to comprehend the instituting a System of rules and regulations for the Exercise of the Troops in the Manual and Manœuvres, for their formation, for the purposes of Exercise on Guards and on detachments and for Camp and Garrison duty, by which is to be understood whatever relates to the service of Guards, the ordinary routine of duty in, and the internal Police of, Camps and Garrisons; In the execution of which Rules and Regulations, the Inspector General and his Assistants shall be employed as hereafter specified.
                    All Rules and Regulations shall first be approved and authorized by the Commander in Chief and either published in general orders or otherwise communicated thro’ the Adjutant General, from whom the Division and Brigade Inspectors will receive them and communicate them to the Major Generals and Brigadiers and to their respective Divisions and Brigades.
                    The Major Generals will exercise their respective Divisions agreeable to the Rules and Regulations so established; The Brigadiers their Brigades; the Colonels their Regiments, or in the absence of either the Officer present next in Command—The Division and Brigade Inspector will assist in the execution under the immediate orders of the Major Generals, Brigadiers and Colonels Commandant.
                    The Major Generals shall make such dispositions as they think proper for grand Manœuvres in their own Divisions and the Brigadiers in their own Brigades, conforming exactly to the general Principles of Manœuvres which shall be established.
                    Grand Manœuvres will be occasionally executed by the Inspector General with particular Brigades or with detachments from the line, of which previous Notice will be given in General Orders and of the Corps which are to perform them.
                    The Inspector General will occasionally attend the Troops while exercising—His directions relative to the Exercise and agreeable to the  rules laid down are to be observed by every Officer of inferior Rank who may command.
                    When any new Manœuvre is to be introduced it is in the first Instance to be performed by the Division or Brigade Inspector after which the Brigadier or Coll will take the Command.
                    Each Division Inspector shall attend his Major General when he is of the day and under his directions assist the Field Officers of the day in examining whether the duty of the guards is performed according to rule.
                    Each Brigade Inspector shall likewise attend his Brigadier when he is of the day for the same Purpose.
                    On the daily Parade of the Guards the Inspector General, if present, or the Sub-Inspector of the day is to exercise the Parade under the Orders of the Major General of the day.
                    The Division and Brigade Inspectors are immediately to furnish their respective Major and Brigadier Generals with all the Regulations which have been heretofore made.
                    The General reminds the Army of former Orders to be in constant readiness to march.
                    Captain Smith Brigade Inspector in Genl Varnum’s Brigade is appointed Brigade Major in the same and is to do duty in both Capacities.
                    Two men are wanting who understand smelting of lead—The Officers will make Enquiry among their soldiers and if they find any who will answer the Purpose they are desired to send them to the Orderly-Office immediately—Very good Encouragement will be given to such men.


Title: From George Washington to Philemon Dickinson, 15 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Dickinson, Philemon

                    Letter not found: to Philemon Dickinson, 15 June 1778. In another letter to Dickinson of this date, GW refers to having written to him “this morning.”


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philemon Dickinson, 15 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Dickinson, Philemon

                        Dear sir.
                        Head Quarters Valley ForgeOne O’clock. 15 June 1778.

                    Since I had the pleasure of writing you this morning I have received intelligence which makes it probable that the enemies rout will be determined in 24 hours. You will therefore order the necessary look out on your part on this occasion—and inform Gen. Maxwell to keep his small parties close upon the enemy in order to discover their first motions and course And Whether they stretch towards their shipping  along the Delaware or attempt to penetrate the Jerseys he will dispatch messengers to me with the earliest information. I am Dr sir.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philemon Dickinson, 15 June 1778
From: Dickinson, Philemon
To: Washington, George

                        Dear Sir,
                        Trenton [N.J.] June 15th 1778

                    The inclosed just came to hand, from Genl Maxwell—the same Intelligence, was brought me a few hours before, which I believe may be relied upon—a Person whom I sent down the River, saw the Vessells on the Stocks, at both the upper, & lower parts of the City, in flames.
                    A Gentleman of Reputation who lives near Philada sent me word last Evening, that the Enemy were very industrious, in transporting their Troops, Artillery, & Waggons, over to Coopers Ferry. The Intelligence comes so many different ways, & so well authenticated, that it does not admit of a doubt. I shall instantly write to Govr Livingston, respecting a general summons for our Militia—but perhaps, he may not yet be convinced, of the Enemy’s Intentions, I am very apprehensive, they will be greatly advanced in their rout, before any considerable force can be collected, to oppose them. I have the honor to be, Your Excellency’s most Obdt

                        Philemon Dickinson


Title: From George Washington to William Eden, 15 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Eden, William

                        Sir,
                        Camp near Valley-forge June 15th 1778

                    On Wednesday evening I had the honor to receive your polite favor of the 9th Instt. If an occasion shall present itself of an interview with  Doctor Ferguson, you may rely Sir, I shall esteem myself happy, in shewing him the civilities due to his literary and social character.
                    I thank you much for your care of the Letters addressed to myself. The one from your Brother Sir Robert, gave me particular satisfaction, as it not only excited a pleasing remembrance of our past intimacy and friendship, during his residence in this Country, but also served to shew that they had not been impaired by an opposition of political sentiments. And you will permit me to add, that if the situation of national affairs would admit, I should be no less desirous of cultivating your acquaintance than you would be of mine.
                    With respect to the other Letters, I shall transmit them to the persons to whom they are directed, as opportunities may offer. I have the Honr to be with great personal esteem & respt Sir, Yr Most Obedt Servt

                        Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Hunter, Sr., 15 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Hunter, James Sr.

                        Sir,
                        Valley-forge. June 15th 1778.

                    Your favor of the 12th Ulto did not come to my hands till yesterday. the Land therein mentioned hath not been legally conveyed, or properly secured to me by my Mother—this reason if no other would prevent me from selling either the Land, or the Wood that grows on it; but I have other reasons against it, equally forceable; one is, that I have had an intention, which my present situation & absence have been the only bar to the execution, of building a Saw Mill, for the purpose of sawing up the Pines which I am told the Land abounds in, and which constitutes the chief value of it provided its bowels have been stripped of all the Ore, and which is denied by some.
                    If no disadvantage on acct of Roads into the Land, and the consequent destruction of Wood & Timber by the Miners, & their followers, was to result I shd have no objection so far as the matter depended upon me, the thing at the sametime appearing absolutely necessary for the well being of your works, to part with the Ore upon terms which shall be Adjudged reasonable between man & man—wishing you success in your undertaking I am with great esteem & regard Sir yr Most obedt H. Servt

                        Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Henry Knox, 15 June 1778
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                        Sir,
                        Artillery Park [Valley Forge] 15th June 1778

                    I feel myself so embarrassed, in the duties of the Department of which I have the honor to be the head, by the Regulations of Congress of the 12th Feby last, that I beg the favor of your Excellency to represent the matter to that honorable Body for further consideration. The awkward situation in which I am, without any of the powers appertaining to the rank of Commanding Officer of Artillery—the expectations from me, without the ability to comply—and the bad consequences that may arise to the service in general—induce me to make this representation; and I hope the importance of the subject will be a sufficient excuse for the trouble it may give your Excellency or Congress.
                    In all considerable Armies in Europe a General Officer has the command and direction of the Artillery, and the preparation of every thing appertaining to the Ordnance Department, and of all species of arms and accoutrements, offensive and defensive, belonging to a soldier. As his charge is very extensive he is allowed, for his Assistance, Commissaries, Clerks, Conductors, Founders, and Artificers of all branches necessary to his profession; all of whom are immediately under his direction and receive his orders—and he receives orders and renders an account of his Conduct to the State that employs him.
                    In the British Service the Master General of Ordnance, or the Commander in Chief of the Artillery, has a Board of Ordnance, over which he presides and regulates every thing relating to the Artillery. This Board consists of the Surveyor General of the Artillery, Clerk of the Ordnance, Storekeeper, and Clerk of the deliveries. There cannot be an instance pointed out in any service where the Commissaries or Clerks are made independent, and unamenable to the Commanding Officer of Artillery, as in the Regulations of the Ordnance Department, Feby 12th.
                    It is certainly proper that every head of a department should have the direction of all parts of it, otherwise he cannot be considered as amenable for any deficiencies which are out of his power to remedy. In the late regulations the Commander of the Artillery has no power to give the dimensions or construction, of any Carriages or Cannon, however erroneous they may be; or directions for making Portfines, Tubes,  Fuzes, and a thousand other matters in which his profession and the reputation of his Corps are intimately concern’d, and on which the success of actions may depend.
                    I have made such minutes for alterations of the regulations alluded to as appear to be indispensably necessary for the good of the service, and annexed them to the resolves. If the honorable Congress think proper to adopt them I shall be happy, as I shall then be in a post to serve my Country with reputation. I am with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

                        H. Knox B.G. Artillery


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 15 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

                        Sir
                        Head Quarters [Valley Forge] June 15th 1778

                    I have been duly honoured with your favors of the 11th & 14th Instant, and with the inclosures to which they refer.
                    The Resolution for settling the value of Rations which have become due since the 1st of January and fixing the mode of payment, I shall announce in this days orders, and hope it will be highly satisfactory to all who are interested in it.
                    I have notified General Mifflin of the inquiry directed by Congress on the 11th Inst., by transmitting him a copy of their proceedings; and he has obtained leave on his solicitation, to repair to York &c. to prepare for his defence. This I thought myself under a necessity of granting, however inconvenient and injurious it may be, to permit the absence of Officers at this period.
                    Our expectations that philadelphia will be evacuated in the course of a few days, are again up. The information received yesterday through various channels and in a pretty direct way, would seem to place the matter, almost, on the footing of certainty.
                    We had about Forty privates & Twenty seamen exchanged on sunday
                        —another party will be exchanged to day—and according to agreement the whole of our unfortunate men will be released as fast, as we can bring down parties of the prisoners in our hands to give for them. It is thought by some, we shall not have an opportunity of compleating the exchange of All those in philadelphia, before the Enemy leave it. Mr Boudinot has also settled and adjusted the whole number of prisoners we are to account for, besides those now in actual confinement, at Nine Hundred, which is less than half of the claim Sr Wm Howe so pertinaciously and so long adhered to. I have the Honor to be with great respect and esteem Sir Your Most Obedt servant

                        Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Charles Lee, 15 June 1778
From: Lee, Charles
To: Washington, George

                        Dr General
                        Camp [Valley Forge] June the 15th 1778

                    As your time must necessarily be taken up by more and a greater variety of busyness than perhaps ever was impos’d on the Shoulders of any one Mortal, the most clear simple and agreeable method of communicating my sentiments on any matters of importance must certainly be by throwing em on paper. You will have more leisure to weigh and consider the stregnth or weakness of my arguments—and I flatter myself that what I now, or, I hope, shall at any time, offer will not be imputed to presumption impertinence or a spirit of criticism, but to my zeal for the publick service You will pardon me then when I express freely my thoughts freely—on the present arrangement with respect to the command of the General Officers, which I cannot help thinking not only extremely defective but that it may be productive of the worst consequences—We are, it seems, to have the superintendance of one division in the present situation of affairs, (that is, as long as We remain tranquil and undisturb’d,) but the instant our tranquility is disturb’d and a movement is to be made, We are to quit this division and abruptly to take the command of another—by these means, We are put out of all possibility of becoming acquainted with the names faces and characters of the Officers who are to execute the orders We give, and the  Soldiers who are to look up to us in the hour of tryal must be strangers to our voices and persons—They cannot consequently have that confidence in us which is so necessary and which habit and acquaintance usually inspire—indeed it appears to me not only repugnant to the rules of war, but of common prudence to introduce, for the first time, a General to his Officers and Soldiers, in the moment of attack—I must intreat your pardon, therefore in urging the expediency of affixing without, loss of time, the respective Generals to the line wings or divisions which They are to command in real action, so that the Commanders and Commanded may not fall into the mistakes blunders and distractions which otherwise from their being Strangers to each other must inevitably ensue.
                    Yesterday and the day before I had some conversation with Mr Budenot—He is from many circumstances fully persuaded that it is not the Enemy’s intention to pass through the Jerseys to N. York—I have myself from the beginning been inclin’d to the same opinion—and on the supposition that this is not their design We ought to consider with ourselves what They most probably will do—my opinion is, that (if They are in a capacity to act offensively,) They will either immediately from Philadelphia, or by a feint in descending the River as far as New Castle, and then turning to the right march directly and rapidly towards Lancaster, by which means They will draw us out of our present position, and oblige us to fight on terms perhaps very disadvantageous—or that They will leave Lancaster and this Army wide on the right, endeavour to take Post on the lower parts of the Susquehanna, and by securing a communication with their Ships sent round into the Bay for this purpose, be furnishd with the means of encouraging and feeding the Indian War broke out on the Western Frontier—this last plan I mention as a possibility but as less probable than the former.
                    If They are not in a capacity to act offensively, but are still determind to keep footing on the Continent, there are strong reasons to think that They will not shut themselves up in Towns, but take possession of some tract of Country which will afford em elbow room and sustenance, and which is so situated as to be the most effectually protected by their command of the Waters—and I have particular reasons to think that They have cast their eyes for this purpose on the lower Counties of Delawar and some of the Maryland Counties on the Eastern Shore—that They had thoughts of adopting this measure some time ago I learnt from Mr Wellin when They entertaind an idea of offering or assenting to, if proposd, a cessation of hostilities—as to any apprehensions from the unwholesomeness of the climate They laugh at it—if They are resolv’d on this plan it certainly will be very difficult to prevent ’em or remove em afterwards as their Shipping will give em  such mighty advantages. whether They do or do not adopt any one of these plans there can no inconvenience arise from considering the subject, nor from devising means of defeating their purposes on the supposition that They will—in short I think it woud be proper to put these queries to ourselves, shoud They march directly towards Lancaster and the Susquehanna or indirectly from N. Castle what are We to do? shoud They (tho it is less probable), leave this Army and even Lancaster wide on the right or endeavour to establish themselves on the lower parts of the Susquehanna, what are We to do? and shoud They act only on the defensive and attempt to secure to themselves some such tract of Country as I have mentiond what measures are We to pursue? these are matters, I really, think worthy of consideration—We have many and, I believe, able Field Engineers in the Camp or at York; why cannot They be employ’d in some essentials, in surveying well the Country on both sides the Susquehanna—determining on the most proper Fords for our Army if on any occasion They shou’d be obligd to ford it, in examining well all the best positions which may be taken betwixt the head of Elk and the Delawar, as also betwixt Philadelphia Wilmington and Lancaster—what use may be made of Conestoga Creek if We are obligd to cover Lancaster—and (to extend their task further) how Baltimore may be put in a more defensible state—and what posts and defiles there are in one line of direction from Baltimore to York—and in another line from that part of the lower Susquehanna, where it is most probable the Enemy woud chuse for their landing place, to York—but I am swelling out my paper to a most insufferable bulk—and intreat Dr General that You will excuse not only it’s legnth but whatever You find ill-time’d or impertinent in the contents as I am, most sincerely and devotedly Yours

                        Charles Lee

                        P.S. Mr Welford tells me that the Officers at Philadelphia publickly express their surprise at their General’s stupidity in not marching strait to Lancaster which They say must indubitably force us out of our present position, or cover us with disgrace by laying waste the finest part of America under our noses—this evidences still stronger the necessity of examining well and immediately Conestoga Creek—where, if I am not mistaken, a fine position may be taken—He says their Cavalry now amounts to 2500 Men—that the bulk of their Force is still at Philadelphia.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Charles Lee, 15 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Charles

                        Dear Sir,
                        Head Quarters [Valley Forge] June 15th 1778.

                    I have received your Letter of this date, and thank you, as I shall do any Officer over whom I have the honor to be placed for his opinion and advice, in matters of importance; especially when they proceed from the fountain of candor, & not from a captious spirit, or an itch for criticism.
                    No man can be more sensible of the defects of our present arrangement than I am—No man more sensible of the advantage of having the Commander, & commanded of every Corps well known to each other—and the Army properly organized than myself—Heaven & my own Letters to Congress can witness, on the one hand, how ardently I have laboured to effect these points during the past Winter & Spring—The Army on the other, bear witness to the effect. Suspended between the old & new establishment, I could govern myself by neither, with propriety; & the hourly expectation of a Comee for the purposes of reducing some Regiments, & changing the establishment of all rendered a mere temporary alteration (which from its uncertainty & shortness could effect no valuable end) unnecessary—that I had a power to shift regiments, & alter Brigades (every day if I chose to do it) I never entertaind a doubt of, but the efficacy of the measure I have very much questioned; as frequent changes, without apparent causes, are rather ascribed to caprice & whim, than to stability & judgment.
                    The mode of shifting the Major Generals from the commd of a  division in the present tranquil state of affairs to a more important one in action & other capitol movements of the whole army is not less disagreeable to my Ideas, than repugnant to yours, but is the result of necessity; for having recommended to Congress the appointment of Lieutt Generals for the discharge of the latter duties, & they having neither approved, or disapproved the measure, I am hung in suspence, and being unwilling on the one hand to give up the benefits resulting from the Command of Lieutt Generals in the cases abovementd; or to deprive the Divisions of their Major Genls for ordinary duty, on the other, I have been led to adopt a kind of medium course which, tho not perfect in itself, is, in my judgment the best that circumstances will admit of, till Congress shall have decided upon the proposition before them—your remark upon the disadvantages of an Officers being suddenly removed from the command of a divn to a Wing, tho not without foundation as I have before acknowledged does not apply so forceably in the present case as you seem to think it does—There is no Majr Genl in this Army that is not pretty well known, and who may if he chooses it soon become acquainted with such Officers as may be serviceable to him—Their Commands being anounced in genl ords & the Army prepared for their receptn a Major Genl may go with the same ease, to the comd of a Wing consisting of five Brigades, as to a division composed of two, & will be received with as little confusion, as the Brigades remain perfect, & no changes have happened in them.
                    Mr Boudenots conjecture of the enemys intention, altho it does not coincide with mine, is nevertheless worthy of attention; and the evils of the measure have been guarded against as far as it has been in my power, by removing the Stores, Provisions &ca as fast as possible from the Head of Elk, the Susquehanna &ca—and by exploring, the Country, Surveying the Roads, & marking the defiles, & Strong grounds, an Engineer & three Surveyors haveing been employed in this work near a Month though their report is not yet come in. Boats are also prepared on the Susquehanna for the Transportation of our Troops in case we should find it necessary to move that way. But nevertheless, it gives me real pleasure to find you have turned your thoughts that way and are revolving the questions contained in your Lettr—& here let me again assure you that I shall be always happy in a free communication of your Sentiments upon any important subject relative to the Service, & only beg that they may come directly to myself—the custom which many Officers have of speaking freely of things & reprobating measures which upon investigation may be found to be unavoidable is never productive of good, & often of very mischievous consequences. I am &ca

                        G.W.


Title: To George Washington from George Measam, 15 June 1778
From: Measam, George
To: Washington, George

                        Sir,
                        Commissary of Cloathing’s OfficeFish Kill [N.Y.] June 15th 1778

                    By order of Major Genl Gates Commanding this Department, I have removed the Cloathing Store for the Troops of the Northern Department to this place, which he intends shall be the place of residence for the Commissary of Cloathing for the Northern Army. By his advice I have the Honor to inform your Excellency that in Feby last was a Year, there was left in the Public Store at Albany committed to my charge, five Cases of Cloathing by Lt Colo. Barber of the then 3d New Jersey Battallion, for which my Assis[tan]t gave a rect promising to deliver them to his order; but from that day to this neither him nor myself have recd a line from any Officer of the Regiment concerning the further disposition of the same. They have now lain about sixteen months in my charge without service to any, at the same time the Troops in this Department have been distressed to the greatest degree for these articles, and many of them still are, without a prospect of a sufficient speedy supply. This Regiment being now under your immediate Command; and I presume not distressed for Cloathing, therefore if they could be dispensed with in that Regiment and then taken by appraisement or by the Invoice to be transmitted by the Colo. or Lt Colonel to me, giving Credit to that Regiment in the Public Accts by me, for the amount thereof, or in such manner as you shall judge proper, I presume the Public service will benefit thereby. I have wrote to Colo. Barber to this purpose.
                    The Officers in this Department are uneasy that they cannot be supplied with Cloathg at a price much lower than they are charged to me by the Agents; they say there is a resolve of Congress to this purpose; there has no such resolve been transmitted to me, and untill it shall, or your Excellency’s order to this purpose I dont hold myself warrented to do so. The only resolve that I have, is to Issue Cloathing to them at the first cost and Charges.

                    If your Excellency will please to order an answer to be given to me on these matters it will be highly satisfactory. I have the Honor to be with all regard, Your Excellency’s most humble Servt

                        Geo. Measam Com: Genl Clog N.A.


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 15 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                        Dear Sir
                        Head Quarters Valley Forge 15th June 1778

                    I am favd with yours of the 9th instant. I have directed the Blankets to be brought forward to Camp, after the North Carolinians are supplied the remainder shall be distributed among the troops who most want—The draughts from the Army for Teamsters, Mechanics and persons of different occupations are so great, that our return, upon command, amounts to almost half the effective fit for duty. And what is worse they scarce ever come back. At the Rate Capt. Coren is going on he will soon make up as many Cannisters as will supply the want of Cartouch Boxes, and for that, and the Reasons I have just given I have not ordered any Workmen from the Army. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Reed, 15 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Reed, Joseph

                        Valley-forge June 15th 1778.

                    I thank you very much for your friendly favor of this date, and your polite attention in submitting the draught of your Letter to Govr Johnston to my perusal—I return it again, but before you transcribe a fair copy I would wish to see you upon the subject of it. perhaps there are some parts of it which might receive a small alteration—In the present  situation of things all corrispondence of this nature must, and will be weighed and scanned with a scrupulous exactness; and even compliment, if carried far, may not pass entirely uncensured.
                    There is another consideration with me—Congress perhaps, at this instance, are deliberating on an answer to give the Commissioners to an address they have received from them. should a Letter therefore from a member (in which light you will be considered) hold out sentiments different from theirs, an unfavourable use will doubtless be made of it. I am Dr Sir Your most Obedt Servt

                        Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Daniel Roberdeau, 15 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Roberdeau, Daniel

                        Sir.
                        [Valley Forge, 15 June 1778]

                    I was favoured with your letter of the 4th Inst.
                    The number of applications for manufacturers and artificers of different kinds could they be all complyed with would be a considerable loss to the army.
                    But as the establishing the smelting of lead is of very great importance, I have directed sergeant Harris to repair to you at york Town; and this day given general orders for an enquiry to discover if two others who understand the business can be found in Camp. If there are any such I shall have them sent to you. With great respect I am Sir your obt and humble sert

                        Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 16 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

                        Head-Quarters V. Forge Tuesday June 16th 1778.
                        Parole ConnecticuttC. Signs Cambridge Coventry—

                    In Congress June 9th 1778.
                    Whereas doubts have arisen as to the sum which shall be paid for the Rations which may be now due and owing to the Officers in the service  of these States and also as to the Vouchers for drawing the same, by reason whereof the Intentions of Congress with respect to such Officers are frustrated.
                    Resolved, That the value of the rations due since the first day of last January ’till the first instant be estimated at one third of a dollar & that the Officers do present their Accounts to the Pay Master General or Deputy-Pay-Master Genl who shall adjust and Pay the same; Provided always that the said Officers shall make Oath to their Accounts respectively, which Oaths the said Pay-Masters are hereby empowered and directed to administer and transmit the said Accounts with the Reciepts thereon to the Treasury.
                    The Court of Enquiry appointed to inquire into the Conduct of Major Williams at the Battle of Germantown are desired to revise their Proceedings and to require the Attendance of Brigadier Genl Wayne and Colonel Walter Stewart to give Evidence relative to such Parts of Major Williams’s Conduct as came within their knowledge.
                    All non Commissioned Officers and soldiers transfer’d to the Corps of Invalids are to be sent to Colonel Nichola’s quarters at Pauling’s Ford with Certificates from their Commanding Officers of what wages are due to them the first of this month—at which time the date of transference is to take place.
                    Captain Archibald Anderson of the second Maryland Regiment is appointed Brigade Inspector to the 2nd Maryland Brigade and is to be accordingly respected.
                    A Court of Enquiry whereof Coll Cortlandt is appointed President to sit tomorrow morning, nine ôClock at the President’s Quarters to take into Consideration and report upon a Complaint exhibited by Capt. Jarvis against Colonel Jackson Commandant at the Gulph—Lieutt Coll North, Major Porter and a Captain from Muhlenberg’s and Paterson’s Brigades to assemble as Members—All Person’s concernd will attend.
                    The Quarter Masters of the several Regiments wanting Arms are to apply immediately to the Commissary of Military Stores at the Park where they will receive them agreeable to the last returns made, which are lodged with him.
                    The Colonels and Commanding Officers of Regiments in the Virginia Line are to have exact & accurate Returns made out of the soldiers in their respective Corps now in Camp, specifying their Names and the time of their Inlistments who reinlisted to serve for three years or during the War after their former time of service expired; which are to be lodged with the Brigadiers in that line and returned by them to Head-Quarters, after examining and certifying the same, to the end that the men may be paid the additional bounty of twenty dollars granted by the State, and transmitted to the Commander in Chief: The Returns  of the men inlisted in the Virginia Regiments in the Brigade late Weedon’s are to be made to General Muhlenberg.


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 16 June 1778
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                        Sir,
                        War Office [York, Pa.] June 16 1778.

                    General Gates has written to Congress describing his distressed situation from the want of men, money, arms, provisions &c. We were surprized at the mention of arms; for by a return made in February it appeared that better than 2000 stands were then at Albany, fit for service; and the board have never given any order respecting them. Colo. Malcom says a quantity were sent from thence lately to the main army, and that none fit for immediate use are left at Albany. We shall write to the Commissary there to make an immediate return of the state of his stores: But as this will unavoidably take some time, we shall be obliged to your Excellency for information of the number you have received and ordered from Albany. It will be convenient also for the board to know the extent of your orders on the arsenal at Springfield. We fear the supplies requisite for the recruits & draughts daily coming in to Genl Gates will sweep off the remainder. It is to be regretted that a larger reward had not been offered by Congress to every man who would come into the field well armed. The sum offered was manifestly too small to produce any effect. We are, with great respect, your Excellency’s most obedt servants. By order of the Board.

                        Tim. Pickering junr


Title: General Orders, 17 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

                        Head-Quarters V. Forge Wednesday June 17th 1778.
                        Parole Dorchester—C. Signs Derryfield Danbury—

                    At a General Court-Martial whereof Coll Livingston was President, June 12th 1778—John Shay an Inhabitant of this State tried for attempting to supply the Enemy with Provisions, found not guilty of the Charge exhibited against him and acquitted.
                    The Commander in Chief approves the sentence.
                    The Brigade Quarter Masters will call on the Commissary of Military Stores for their respective Proportions of Tin Cannisters which are to be kept by them with the Spare Ammunition, filled with Cartridges and delivered out proportionably to the several Regts only in time of an Alarm or when the Troops are actually going to attack the Enemy, except to such Soldiers as are destitute of Cartridge Boxes, the Cannisters are to be delivered to them in lieu thereof, ’till they are furnished with boxes, when they are to be lodged with the Brigade-Quarter-Masters as before mentioned. As the Proportion of Cannisters will be but small it would be proper to intrust them to the Non Commissioned Officers only or some of the most trusty soldiers when the Brigades are completed with Cartridge Boxes.


Title: Council of War, 17 June 1778
From: Council of War
To: Washington, George

                        [Valley Forge, 17 June 1778]

                    At a Council of War held at Head Quarters Valley Forge the 17th day of June 1778

                        Present

                            His Excellency The Commander in Chief

                            Major Generals
                            Brigadier Generals

                                Lee
                                Smallwood

                                Greene
                                Knox

                                Arnold
                                Poor

                                Sterling
                                Patterson

                                Fayette
                                Wayne

                                Steuben
                                Woodford

                                Mughlenberg

                                Huntington

                                Portail

                    The Commander in Chief informs the council, that from a variety of concurring intelligence, there is the strongest reason to believe the enemy design speedily to evacuate Philadelphia; having actually put all their heavy baggage, cannon and stores on board their transports, which have fallen down the river, and having sent across to the Jersey shore the principal part of their waggons, containing their light baggage and a considerable part of their force, including, according to several recent accounts, almost the whole of their cavalry; their grenadiers and light infantry, a brigade of British and some regiments of New-levies being the only troops now remaining in the city—That from every appearance the most natural inference is, they are destined for New York, either by marching through the Jerseys towards Amboy, or down the river to some convenient place of embarkation, and thence round by water; but as it is far from impossible, they may only mean to draw us out of this strong position, throw us off our guard and attack us to advantage or may intend some southern expedition, these objects ought duly to be attended to—That their force amounts to about 10.000 rank and file, fit for duty.
                    He further states to them, that the strength of the army at this post, including those on command, who might be drawn together in time of action, and such of the sick present as might be capable of acting on an emergency is 12500 [rank] & file. That of these near 11000 would be able to march off the ground, in a condition for service. That there are now in camp about 2300—who, from sickness and want of necessaries, would be unable to march with the army for the purpose of operating; but would most of them be able to travel moderately to some place of greater security, into the country, in case of a removal of the army—That besides these, there are in the rear of this camp within the distance of eight or ten miles twelve hundred who would be incapable of removing themselves in case of necessity; but must be carried away in waggons, if it should become requisite—That there are no very considerable magazines, either in camp, or in its vicinity; but there are some  valuable stores, in the Quarter Master General’s department, at Reading; and two large depositaries of military stores at Lebanon and Carlisle—That there are parcels of flour and other provisions, dispersed in different parts of this state; but no material quantity at any one place.
                    His Excellency also informs the Council, that there is a brigade of Continental troops in the Jerseys consisting of about 800 fit for duty and that all the Militia of that state, have been notified of the probability of the enemy’s marching through it, and warned to collect, on signals for the purpose, to give them all the annoyance and disturbance in their power, in concert with the Continental troops.
                    He observes to them also, that on a junction of the enemy’s force in and near Philadelphia, and that which they already have at New York and its dependencies, their number will amount to between 14 & 15000—That, on our part, when this army shall be united to the one on the North River, we shall have near 14000 Continental troops, fit for service.
                    Having stated these facts, for the information of the council, The commander in Chief requests, after a personal discussion of the subject, that each member will favour him with his opinion, in writing, on the conduct, which it will be adviseable for this army to observe on the present occasion, and under present appearances, in determining which, though he would not wish to confine the attention of the Council solely to these objects—He recommends the following questions to their mature consideration.
                    Whether any entreprise ought to be undertaken against the enemy in Philadelphia, in their present circumstances?
                    Whether this army should remain in the position it now holds, ’till the final evacuation of the city or move immediately towards the Delaware?
                    Whether any detachment of it shall be sent to reinforce the Brigade in the Jerseys, or advanced towards the enemy to act as occasion shall require and endeavour to take advantage of their retreat?
                    If the army remain on its present ground ’till the enemy quit the city, and if they march, through the Jerseys towards Amboy, will it be practicable, from the obstructions they may probably receive, from the troops already there, in conjunction with the Militia, to arrive, in time, with this army, to give them any material interruption? Will it be prudent to attempt it, or not rather more eligible to proceed to North River, in the most direct and convenient manner, to secure the important communication between the Eastern and Southern states?
                    In case such measures should be adopted, as will enable this army to overtake the enemy in their march, will it be prudent, with the aid, which may reasonably be expected from the Jersey Militia, to make an attack upon them, and ought it to be a partial or a general one?

                    In case of an immediate removal of this army, what precautions will be proper for the security of the sick belonging to it, and of the stores in this state?


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 17 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

                        Sir
                        Head Quarters [Valley Forge] June 17th 1778

                    I have been favoured with your Letter of the 9th Instant, and thank you for the reports made by General parsons & Captain Van Buren.
                    With respect to the rank of the Officers in Colonel Lamb’s Regiment, I can give you no information. The divided state of the Corps has prevented an arrangement being made. I would advise you, as the only expedient for the present, to appoint a good board of Officers, unconnected with the parties to hear their several pretensions, and to  adjust their rank relatively to each other. I say relatively to each other, as this will fix the matter among themselves & prevent the inconveniences arising from their dissentions to the public service, without affecting the rights of Others. As soon as the situation of affairs will admit, an arrangement will be attempted on a general scale, after which, I trust, we shall have no more trouble on the score of rank.
                    I am much surprised, that an equal number of prisoners to those sent in, was not returned; However, no other injury will result from it, than a temporary detention of our unfortunate men. A general exchange is agreed to; and we shall as soon as possible relieve the whole of our privates, and as many Officers, as the circumstances of the number and rank of those in our hands, will admit of. I shall inform the Commissary of this proceeding that he may receive an equivalent out of the prisoners in New York, before any more are ordered in.
                    The Enemy have not quitted philadelphia yet, but from the concurring accounts of every day, as well of Deserters as Others who escape, there is every reason to believe, that they will in a very little time. I shall transmit you the earliest advice on the subject. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt servt

                        Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 17 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                        Dear sir.
                        Head Quarters Valley Forge 17th June 1778

                    I have been favoured with your two letters of the 23d & 25 Ulto.
                    I am sorry an exchange cannot take place between General Thompson and one of the gentlemen who were supposed to be Brigadiers. This method of considering officers as Brigadiers, and not considering them as such, does not altogether accord with my ideas of propriety. In the course of the contest we lost one officer, that is the difference in rank between a Major & Brigadier, by this mode of conduct. We must take care how we lose another. As to the exchange of the other officers who are soliciting, I wish it may be consented to by Sir Henry Clinton. From some circumstances which have happened we have reason to doubt whether it will. It is our interest & therefore we should promote their exchange whenever we can.
                    With respect to the appointment of Major Pollard to the office of deputy adjutant General, If such an appointment was necessary, I suppose there will be no objection to his having it; but I would wish you to write in this, as in all other instances of a like nature, to Congress, on  the subject, and recieve their consent or disapprobation.
                    I cannot give order in the point referred to me, respecting the men inlisted by Colonel Armand. The resolution of Congress of the 26th of February is express against inlisting prisoners or deserters. I belive applications are gone to them and the board of war in this particular instance, who will direct in it, I presume as they may think right.
                    The enemy are still in Philadelphia that is they hold the City, but all accounts point to an evacuation. I am Dr Sir your most obt servt.

                        P.S. A Captn Robt Davis of Voses’s regt was sent from this camp the 27 of Decr last, in order to collect the men of Glovers Brigade who had been left sick on the East side of the North River—and has never made his appearance since. I am informed he amused himself by travelling from Town to Town till he at length arrived at Boston. I request you to make enquiry after him, and to order him in the most peremptory manner forthwith to join his Regiment. If you should hear any material circumstances respecting his conduct, since he went from camp you will be pleased to inform me of them.
                        Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Lafayette, 17 June 1778
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                        Valley Forge Camp 17 june 1778

                    The situation we are in renders it extremely difficult to have a Settled notion of what is the best to be done, as the motions of the ennemy depend no so much of theyr circumstances in this country as of foreign events, Negotiations, or Ministerial orders which are in this time entirely unknown to us—however the prevailing idea is that they will go to new york through the jersays—how far that may be a just one I do’nt pretend to Say, but if theyr intention was to be in new york as soon as possible, I See many good Reasons for choosing to go by land.
                    1st An enterprize against philadelphia, if succèsfull, would be of an infinite and glorious advantage, and certainly if we could depend upon arriving to the redoubts undiscovered, by a night’s march, I would be for moving this evening and attaking the few troops who I understand are left in the town—but I question much if we could be at half way,  before they will get notice of it—and unless the certainty of being undiscovered till the moment of the attak was demonstrated to me, I would find the experiment too dangerous.
                    2d Remaining in this ground till the ennemy have begun an operation what so ever, is certainly the most effectual manner of avoiding an action; however if the ennemy had a So very great desire of bringing us to it, I ask if it would not be possible to engage us out of this ground by some other means—I am of opinion that theyr army is as precious to them as ours is to us, and that they will not be found of fighting us, but upon equal grounds—what I understand may be avoided in the jersays.
                    that Country is unknown to Me in almost all its parts, but I am told it is full of advantageous posts, and certainly by what is Reported to me I would prefer to Meet there the ennemy, than to oppose any operation of theyrs in north River by a battle, when theyr schipping gives them the opportunity of flying to and from us with the greatest ease.
                    therefore in case it would be thought they are Rather retreating through that state, I would propose to remove the army towards the delaware, at a little march from this place—it would perhaps hurry theyr operations, or alter them or let us know what they mean, three great advantages in war.
                    3d I am not found of Sending any large detachements from the line, unless it would be Some thing like the future light infantery, who being choosen troops and more lightly equiped may be join’d to the jersay militia—but the body of the army must I think act together as much as possible—if any great advantage may be taken of attaking theyr Rear guard it is vorth the while of bringing the whole army, if not, it is not vorth the while Risking a large part of it—I alwaïs except the light infantry for the reasons above mentionn’d.
                    4th how far it is practicable to stop the ennemy in theyr way to Amboy I do not know, on account of my ignorance of the country, and of the obstructions already made—but I think nothing Schould be neglected in all cases to make theyr Road as difficult as possible, and I think also the ennemy who retreats and who is obliged to embark gives a great advantage to this who pursues them.
                    5th the fifth question is difficult to be answered even by a man who would very well know the country, and the place where they could be overtaken, but if some other attak than small Skimisches was offered to us, I then would like it a general one.
                    6th I think that in all cases the sick Schould be immediately removed—it seems that the quarter master general do’nt find great difficulties in doing it—those sick will embarass our motions at all events—for that article an such stores as ought to be remov’d waggons, I think, are to be press’d and every thing done to get clear of them as  Soon as possible—if we quit this ground, a brigade may be left for guarding them, compos’d of such men as would be the least fitt for a quick march. if by any motion whatsoever we may hurry theyr going through the jersay, and prevent theyr pillaging or stopping in it we gain an advantage Even when it would oblige us to arrive a day latter, towards the delaware state, where we schall not prevent theyr taking a post if they please at any rate—this reflexion of mine is on account of what has been said yesterday of theyr intention to go that way.
                    I know the Sentiment of almost every body is to stay in our present ground till they ennemy will have taken theyr party—if it is the case we must entirely give up the idea of taking any material advantage of theyr retreat, what I confess I do with reluctance—however as I am almost the yungest of the general officers who knows less the country I rather refer to theyr Sentiments than to this which promises a most agreable prospect—but every day, every hour in bringing new intelligences may give us a greater light—then the instant schould be made use of without the long apparate of a council of war, whereas in almost all the councils since men began to make war, nothing will be decided but to Remain in the Same place where the council has been met.

                        The Marquis de lafayette


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 17 June 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

                        Sir.
                        York Town [Pa.] 17th June 1778.

                    On the 14th I had the honor of writing to Your Excellency, & sent the dispatches by Messenger Petit.
                    Yesterday I sign’d a Commission to William Malcom Esquire to Rank Colonel, by order of Congress, from the 11th March 1776 & if I do not mistake Congress have agreed to confirm your Excellency’s intimation relative to Colo. Campbell which rests at the Board of War—or is referred there.
                    Your Excellency will be pleased to receive within the present Inclosure.
                    1—An Act of Congress of this date approving Your Excellency’s conduct in refusing a passport to Doctor Ferguson.
                    2—An Act of the same date intended to put a stop to all correspondence between the Inhabitants of these States & the Enemy; Your Excellency  will clearly understand the views of Congress & will take the most effectual measures for preventing the evil in Camp.
                    I beg leave to add a Copy of the Letter which Congress has written in Answer to the British Commissioner’s Address—the Letter will also be inclos’d with this—Your Excellency will be pleased to send it forward immediately. I have the honor to be with the highest Esteem & Regard Sir Your Excellency’s Obedient humble servt

                        Henry Laurens. President of Congress.


Title: Orders for March from Valley Forge, 17 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

                        [17 June 1778]

                    The Army is to March to Morrow, & till further orders in the following Order.

                            The Marquis De La Fyatte
                            Woodfords

                                is to lead with
                            Scotts
                            Brigades

                            North Carolina

                            The Baron De Kalb
                            Glovers

                                next with
                            Pattersons
                            Brigades

                            Learneds

                            The Artillery Park & spare Amunition

                            Lord Stirling With
                            Weedons

                            Muhlenbergs
                            Brigades

                            1st Maryland

                            2d Maryland

                    The disposition for the Baggage of the Army to be as follows.
                    The Commander in Chiefs Baggage is to march in the front of the Column of Waggons—The Adjutant Generals, Pay Master Genls Engineers Muster Master Generals Auditors of Accts the Baggage of the Marquiss de la Fyattes Division De Kalbs Division the Baggage of Lord stirlings Division & then the Waggons of the Quarter Master General’s department Flying Hospital, & lastly the Comy & Forage Master Genls Waggons—The whole Baggage to fall in the rear of the Column of Troops—The Genl Officers commanding the Grand Division to appoint such guards upon the baggage as shall be necessary for the security thereof—They will also, appoint a party of Pioneers to move in front of the Columns, to Assist the Artificers in repairing Bridges and bad places in the roads.
                    There will be a party of Artificers to go in front & rear of the Whole, to mend Bridges and repair the Broken Carriages; which will take their orders from the Q.M. Genl.
                    The Sub Inspectors are to Assist the Quarter Master General in regulating the order of March, encampmt and planting of Guards & to accompany and follow his Directions accordingly.

                        Go: Washington

                        Note, the Light Horse is to march in front & upon the Right flank a days & encamp in the Rear of the Troops o Nights.
                        The new guards will form the advanced guard of the army and the old guards the rear guard. Each Regiment will send out a flank guard on the right flank in the proportion of a serjeant and 12 men to every 200 men.
                        The horse are to march in front.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Steuben, 17 June 1778
From: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, baron von
To: Washington, George

                        Sir
                        [17 June 1778]

                    It gives me great Satisfaction to see that Your Excellency has taken Such a wise Step in my Department as to engage the General Officers and Field Officers of Regiments to take the Command of the Troops in our daily Exercise: Nothing could be more useful in the present moment—I had wished some time ago it might Soon be the Case, but in the meanwhile, I was endeavoring with the Gentlemen under me, to make the Officers and Soldiers a little more perfect, in order to Enable the Genl Officers &c. to pass immediately to Grand Manœuvres, and save them the trouble of descending to those Toilsome and fastidious details which we chearfully encountered from the beginning for the good of the Service—No pains will be spared on my part to help on the General Officers, and I Shall always think myself happy, if I can Contribute in any manner whatever to the Advancement of the American Army and prove An Useful instrument in your Hands—As it will take a few Days for the General Officers &c. to become acquainted and familiar with the instructions and Principles heretofore approved of and Established by Your Excellency, & for the Officers & Soldiers to arrive to a tolerable Degree of perfection in the performance of the Evolutions

                         and manœuvres before practised, I will seize this Opportunity, with your Excellency’s leave, to take a short Journey to York-Town, there to settle some affairs with my friend Mr De Francy, & take my leave of him before he goes to South Carolina As Congress has not yet come to any positive Determination about the Department, If your Excellency foresees that I can be of some Use, I beg you will give me such Orders and Directions about the whole as you think proper, I must likewise beseech Your Excellency to give me the Satisfaction to let me know whether you are satisfied as I am with the Officers Your Excellency has appointed Inspectors under me, and whether you are willing to have them continued in the Exercise of that Office—I will likewise propose to Your Excellency the reuniting the Office of Brigade Inspector, to that of Brigade Majors, with the denomination of Brigade Majors, which Officers will be taken from the Line of the Majors, and not as it was before, some being Captains, others Majors or Colonels—There is such an Analogy between both Offices, as renders it in my opinion almost indispensable to join them in one Officer, were it but to prevent difficulties naturally arising between two Officers acting in two different analogous Departments, between which there is no certain line drawn. Upon these different heads, Ill beg your Excellency’s opinion and Orders. I have the honor to be with great Respect Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant

                        Steuben


Title: General Orders, 18 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

                        Head-Quarters V. Forge Thursday June 18th 1778.
                        Parole Esopus—C. Signs Egypt Elk—

                    Poor’s, Varnum’s & Huntington’s Brigades are to march immediately under the Command of Majr General Lee. The two Pennsylvania & Late Conway’s Brigades to march at three ôClock this afternoon and the whole Army to march at five ôClock tomorrow morning. All former orders respecting the sick &c. are to be strictly obeyed.
                    At a Brigade Court-Martial June 16th 1778—Major Hait President—Ensign Daniel Lawrence of Coll Angell’s Regiment try’d upon a charge of having in several Instances disobeyed Coll Greene’s orders in refusing to come forward to join his Regiment and for returning  back after he had set out and behaving in a manner unbecoming the Character of an Officer and a Gentleman from the time he was ordered forward ’till he actually set out with a design to join his Regiment, found guilty of a breach of the 5th Article 18th section of the Articles of War and sentenced to be discharged the service.
                    The Commander in Chief approves the sentence & orders it to take Place.
                    At a General Court-Martial June 15th 1778—Coll Livingston President—Captain Bowen of 9th Pennsylvania Regt Lieutenants Darrah and Pursill of the 2nd Pennsylvania Regiment, tried 1st—for entering the Encampment of the 3rd Pennsylvania Regiment in a riotous and mutinous manner. 2ndly—for attempting to enter Coll Craige’s house between the hours of twelve and one in the morning of the 4th of June instant with drawn swords.
                    The Court are unanimously of Opinion that they are not guilty of the Charges exhibited against them and do acquit them with honor.
                    The Commander in Chief confirms the opinion of the Court.
                    Agreeable to the Report of a Court of Enquiry ordered the 13th instant—John Randolph, a soldier now in Colonel Harrison’s Regiment of Artillery is to join the 14th Virginia Regiment immediately: The determination concerning the other man claimed by the last mentioned Regiment is postponed for want of Evidence.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benedict Arnold, 18 June 1778
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

                        Camp V. Forge—June 18th 1778

                    Answers to His Excellency Genl Washington’s Questions in Council June 17th 1778.
                    Answer to Question first.
                    By no means.
                    Answer to Question Second.
                    That the Army by all means remain in their present Position untill the Enemy evacuate Philada and their Route is known.
                    Answer to Question third.
                    Five or Six hundred Light Infantry, with as many Cavalry as can be spared, be immediately Detach’d to Act in Conjunction with the Troops in the Jersies to prevent the Ravages of the Enemy.
                    Answer to Question Fourth & fifth.
                    If the Enemy make a forced March from Philada to So. Amboy, it will not be practicable for this Army to give them any material Interuption in their March, but was it practicable it would by no means be elegible, to make a partial or General Attack, as the former would probibly bring on the Latter, which in Our present Curcumstances, ought to be avoided, As soon as it is Ascertained that the Enemy are on their March thro the Jersies, this Army ought to move to the No. River to Secure that Important Post.
                    Answer to Question the Sixth.
                    In Case of the immediate Removal of this Army, (befor the Enemy  evacuate Philada) It will be necessary for the Security of the Sick that they be Removed, Six or Eight Leagues into the Country—The Stores should be removed to Such places as that they will be effectually Covered by the Army.

                        B. Arnold M. Genl


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Robert Ballard, 18 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Ballard, Robert

                        Sir
                        Head Quarters Valley Forge 18th June 1778

                    Having recd information that the State of Virginia have determined to fill their Regiments by Recruits, I have directed the 1st 5th and 9th Regiments to be incorporated for the present, and the supernumerary Officers to proceed to Virginia to superintend the recruiting Service. You are therefore to proceed, with such supernumerary Officers, to Virginia, and, upon your arrival there, wait upon His Excellency the Governor and take your instructions from him. You are to look upon the Officers from Genl Muhlenbergs Brigade as under your particular direction, and you are to designate them to such parts of the Country as they are best acquainted with. You are to desire them, from time to time, to make you returns of their progress, which returns you are to make regularly to me. The sooner the Recruits are marched to Camp, after they are inlisted, the better; and you are therefore to send them forward in Squads, under the Care of Officers; as fast as they can be collected. I lately issued an order, which was published in the Virginia papers, calling upon all Officers in that line, not absent upon command, to repair to their Regiments immediately. But you may, under the present circumstances, detain all those of the 1st 5th and 9th to assist in recruiting. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 18 June 1778
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Washington, George

                    Letter not found: from Elias Boudinot, 18 June 1778. GW wrote to Boudinot on this date that “I have received your two letters of this date.” In the letter to GW, Boudinot refers to “your Excellency⟨’s⟩ Letter of this date,”  which apparently is GW’s letter acknowledging receipt of Boudinot’s two earlier letters. If so, Boudinot wrote to GW three times on 18 June, and two of his letters have not been found.


Title: To George Washington from Elias Boudinot, 18 June 1778
From: Boudinot, Elias
To: Washington, George

                        Dr Sir
                        German Town [Pa.] June 18 1778 8 oClock P.M.

                    I am this Moment returned from the Point opposite to Gloucester—As soon as the City was a little reconnoitered, and prudent precautions taken, I went down with two or three chosen Persons to the Point from whence the Enemy had just gone over—We plainly discovered their rear & indeed the direction of the whole Party from the Dust—Two Deserters came over to us while we were there, one swam the River the other came in a Canoe—From the whole, I think your Excellency may depend on the following facts—That the main Body passed over at Coopers ferry—The flying Army as it is called passed to Gloucester to serve as a Covering Party—This last Body halted about two or three Hours at Gloucester, buried their Scows dressed two Days Provision and marched towards Haddonfield about three or four oClock, where it is said they are to join the Main Body this Evening—One thing only puzzeled me, it was clearly discernible that the last of the main Body, who were in sight when we entered the City, marched down from Coopers ferry along the River, to Gloucester—The only way I can Account for this, is to suppose them part of the flying Army—I asked the Deserter how it came that this flanks division marched to the right of the main Body instead of the left—He answered me that it was reported that Genl wayne with his Division had crossed from Wilmington—we have sent off two or three proper Persons in their rear.
                    a light Horseman comes in with your Excellency⟨’s⟩ Letter of this date, but the Contents are as fully answered by the above, as I am now capable of; every possible measure shall be taken by me to endeavour to watch the Enemy’s movements.
                    Notwithstanding every endeavour used to the Contrary, they have embarked all our Prisoners except a very few—They persist in taking the Officers with them, but say they will disembark the Privates in the River when their Prisoners arrive—I have given for Answer, that under so notorious a Violation of a solemn Agreemt for the purpose, I could not say whether your Excellency would suffer another of their Prisoners to be sent in at any rate. I am Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & Most Hble Servt

                        Elias Boudinot


Title: From George Washington to George Bryan, 18 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Bryan, George

                        Sir
                        Head Qrs [Valley Forge] ½ after 11 A.M. June 18th 1778

                    I have the pleasure to inform you, that I was this minute advised by Mr Roberts’s, that the Enemy evacuated the City early this morning. He was down at the Middle ferry on this side, where he received the intelligence from a number of Citizens, who were on the opposite shore. The destruction of the Bridge prevented him passing. I have not yet had any Official accounts on the subject, but there are many in corroboration of Mr Roberts’s. I congratulate you very heartily on this interesting event and have the Honor to be in haste Sir Yr Most Obedt servt

                        Go: Washington

                        P.S. A Letter from Capt. McClean dated in Philadelphia, this minute came to hand confirming the evacuation.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General John Cadwalader, 18 June 1778
From: Cadwalader, John
To: Washington, George

                        Sir
                        Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 18th June 1778

                    When I consider the Strength & Situation of the Enemy at Philadelphia (from the Representation made by your Excellency) I cannot think that any Enterprize can be undertaken with the least prospect of Success—The distance this Army is from the City puts it out of our power to effect a Surprize—they would certainly have notice of our approach—the Troops they have in the City are, no doubt, sufficient to defend the Lines (the only point in which an Attack can be made) till a Reinforcement can re-cross the River.
                    It appears to me an object highly worthy the attention of this Army to annoy the Enemy on their Retreat thro’ Jersey; and it is therefore absolutely necessary that the Army should immediatly move, from its present Situation, to some post near Delaware, & every preparation made to throw it over the River with the utmost Expedition if necessary—If the Army should remain in its present Situation till the City is evacuated it appears to me impossible ever to overtake the Enemy; as the Troops now in Jersey are not sufficient to retard their march to Amboy the march being easily performed in three Days—By taking post near Newtown a Division or two may be safely detached to the Banks of Delaware near Trenton, with orders to cross upon the first notice of the enemy’s March—If this Disposition should enduce the Enemy to alter theirs, & to move towards our Army on this Side of Delaware, we shall have timely notice of their re-cross⟨ing⟩ the River & the Detachment as well as the Troops in Jersey may be soon brought to our Assistance.
                    If the Army remains in its present Situation I cannot think such a Detachment can be safely sent to Jersey as will be able, with the Troops now there, to make a serious attack upon the Enemy—And we have found from Experience that small Bodies can give very little Annoyance to an Army un-incumbered with Baggage & marching in a Line of Battle.
                    The first part of the fourth Question seems to be involved in the second Question! The latter part of this Question is certainly very important; but I cannot conceive that taking possession of the Posts on the N. River to keep open a Communication with the eastern & southern States ought to be the immediate Object of this Army—As there can hardly be a doubt of the enemy’s Intention to march thro’ N. Jersey, I am clearly of opinion that this Army which is formidable in numbers,  well equipped & well disciplined should march immediatly in full force, & in conjunction with the Troops in N. Jersey, endeavour to make an effectual Stroke at the Enemy—The Situation of the Country, the position of the Enemy, the Time & many other Circumstances relating to them; as well as those that relate to us, make it, in my opinion, very difficult to determine, till the Case happens, whether our Attack should be partial or general The present, appears to me to be as good an opportunity as we shall probably have during this Contest to strike a decisive Blow—The Enemy are inferior in numbers & only prepared for a short March—If this Army should make an unfortunate Attack the Enemy could not improve their Advantage, as they would find it very difficult, if not impracticable, to subsist their Army if they penetrate far into the Country—Even a victory, if not ruinous, might in their present Situation, prove very injurious—when we consider their Strength & without any Expectation of Reinforcements; & when we consider the Situation of their affairs in Europe—after considering all Circumstances relating to the War in America—the most important of which are, the great Reduction of their Force by frequent Actions, Defeats, Desertions, Captures & other Casualties; the immense Sum of money already expended, the little Territory acquired after a three years war; the Idea of Conquest extinguished even in the minds of the Ministry; the fall of Stocks & the injury done in other respects to public Credit; the difficulty of raising Troops throughout the Kingdom; the American War very unpopular in England & Ireland, & lastly the acknowledgment of the Independance of these united States by France & the Treaty entered into with that Nation—I am enduced to believe, I say, from all these Circumstances that their whole Force now in America will be drawn from these united States for the Defence of Canada, their W. India Islands & their Dominions nearer Home—Possessed of this opinion it appears to me we have every thing to hope & nothing to fear—A Defeat of our Army will be no essential disadvantage to us & cannot in the least serve their Cause. But if this Representation of Circumstances should not have so much weight with your Excellency & you should be of opinion that the Enemy intend an Expedition on the N. River I cannot think we ought to loose the present opportunity of making an attack on the Enemy—If they are suffered, un-molested, to collect their whole Force at N. York (which by your Excellency’s Representation will be equal, if not, superior to ours) I conceive they will have a great advantage over us by drawing their whole Force to one point; assisted too by their Fleet which will give them the Command of the Navigation; whilst our Force may be divided by the necessary Attention to a Variety of Objects. I am, Sir, with the greatest respect & esteem, your Excellency’s most obt & very hble Servant &c.

                        John Cadwalader


Title: To George Washington from Major Alexander Clough, 18 June 1778
From: Clough, Alexander
To: Washington, George

                        Sir
                        Germantown [Pa.] June 18th [1778] 8 OClock

                    since my last I have recd the inclosed from Mr Morris but ⟨do⟩ not complye’d with his request as your excellencys instructions was to the contrary what he mentions has been conferm’d by man⟨y⟩ I have se⟨en⟩ this after⟨noon⟩ from tow⟨n⟩—the in⟨closed⟩ is a return of prisoner⟨s⟩ taken by capt. Heard as delivered them to the care of Lt dover belonging Capt. Mc lanes detachment—I have not been able to collect any Matteriall intelligance from them. I am Your Excellencys Most Obt Hbl. Servt

                        A. Clough


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philemon Dickinson, 18 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Dickinson, Philemon

                        Dr Sir
                        [Valley Forge, 18 June 1778]

                    I have this moment received intelligence, that the rear of the enemy are crossing the Delaware—I am putg the army in motion in consequence—Yesterday General Knox, by my order, sent you thirty or forty thousand Cartriges, for the use of the militia, if necessary, otherwise you will deliver them to General Maxwell.
                    I rely on your activity to give the enemy all possible obstruction, in their march; and that you will give me instant and regular intelligence of every thing, that passes. I am Dr Sir Your most Obedt serv.

                    The Cartriges went off yesterday one oClock—They will be at Trenton tonight—An officer is with them.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philemon Dickinson, 18 June 1778
From: Dickinson, Philemon
To: Washington, George

                        Dear Sir
                        Trenton [N.J.] June 18th 1778 10 OClock P.M.

                    Your Excellency’s favor of this morning, just came to hand—A Boy from Philada, say’s, our Troops took possession of the City, at 6, OClock, at which time he left it.
                    The alarms thro’ this State are given, I make no doubt our Militia, will turn out with Spirit—Your Excellency may rely on my utmost exertions, the Troops are preparing to march from this Post—The most exact intelligence, shall be instantly communicated to your Excellency, by Your most Obt Servt

                        Philemon Dickinson

                        P.S. Col: White this moment arrived here on his way, to join his Regiment—it being agreable to him, to remain with me, for the present, I shall accept his services, if your Excellency approves of it—he is acquainted with the Country, & will be very serviceable—as his furlough expires on Sunday, your Excellency will be pleased to mention the Cause of his delay, to Col: Moylan.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Duportail, 18 June 1778
From: Duportail, Antoine-Jean-Louis Le Bègue de Presle
To: Washington, George

                        [18 June 1778]

                    I think we ought not to quit our position of Valley forge—before the enemy has evacuated Philadelphia—he must have lost his reason, to remain in that city without being in a condition to defend it. Thus either the intelligence which says there are no more than 2 or 3000 men there, is false—or the English have it in their power by the measures which they have taken, Signals agreed upon, number of boats &c. to recross in sufficient force, in case of our advancing to attack them.
                    The matter besides is reducible to this—Either the English are not really going away—or they are—if the former be the case all that has hitherto been done is a feint on their part, and conceals some Snare into which they would draw us.
                    if they are really determined to go away—what can we Desire more—here is a certain and immense advantage—let us not risk the loss of it,  by pursuing another, which even should we obtain it, would not change our affairs.
                    However as we have her[e] 12000 men and that our position may be defended by a smaller number, I think it would be well to send 1500 men into the Jerseys, to reinforce what is there already. the whole should be commanded by a person well acquainted with the Country—they ought not in general to oppose the enemy in front, on his march—but to follow him on his left flank.
                    When the English shall have passed the Delaware, we ought in my opinion to move to the banks of that River—and prepare to pass it likewise—but certain precautions are necessary—if we learn that the english are advancing hastily towards N. York—we may likewise pass with celerity—but if they shd halt, or appear to march slowly—in that case I think our troops ought not to pursue the Enemy, as fast as they could cross the River—but post ourselves advantageously near the River, and wait till the whole army has passed, in order to advance in force.
                    In Jerseys as well as every where else, I think we ought always to avoid General Actions—to seek advantageous posts—to have the Roads of Retreat well reconnoitred, and to secure communications with our magazines—After all; I find it Difficult to believe that the Enemy mean to cross the Jerseys and got to N. York—unless there is a deficiency of transports—but we have the same conduct to Observe in case the enemy should march down the left Shore of the Delaware to embark below.

                        Duportail


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 18 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

                        sir.
                        Head Quarters Valley Forge 18 June 1778. 2 O’clock P.M.

                    This morning about sun-rise the rear of the enemies army evacuated Philadelphia. To-day and to-morrow morning, our whole army will move towards the Delaware; and should the enemy march rapidly thro’ the Jersey, I shall proceed Northward as expeditiously as possible. My movements however will be influenced by theirs.
                    In your quarter you will take the proper measures on this occasion; and let me particularly recommend to your attention the great object of provisions. I am Sir your obedt & very hble servt

                        Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 18 June 1778
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                        Camp Valley Forge June 18th 1778

                    In order to answer your Excellencys six queries and be clearly understood—I shall first state a query & then give it an answer—And so on in order untill the whole is answered.
                    Query the first Whether any enterprize ought to be undertaken against Phila.
                    Answer—I am clearly of Opinion that there ought not. The Enemy can recall any part of their force from the other side of Delaware, so easily & secretly that it is impossible for us to plan an attack, & form any tolerable Idea of the force we have to contend with—It is to be prisumed the Enemy have force enough in the City to defend their Redoubts; and if they have not, they are all prepared for a retreat, which they can effect with such ease & expedition that it will be impossible for us to take advantage of it. That in either case we shall gain nothing by such an enterprize—fatigue the Troops to no purpose—& be drawn out of our proper direction, to the prejudice of operations necessary to be carried on in New Jersey.
                    Query the 2d. Whether we should remain in our present position untill the Enemy finally evacuate Phila., or move towards the Delaware?
                    Answer, I concieve it to be both the duty and interest of this Army to leave it’s present position & move towards the Delaware. It is impossible to reduce the Enemies intentions to a certainty; but I think the ballance of evidence is greatly in favour of their going through New Jersey. We must suppose they have some fixed object, some plan for their future operations; & I cannot believe they would change their measures, for the little advantages they might gain, by making an excurtion into this part of the Country with a view to destroy our Stores or possess themselves of our sick. It is our duty to cover New Jersey as much as possible—their patriotism merits it—In this position we cannot do it effectually—I remember it was urged last night that this was the only secure position the Country affords—that by moving out of it, we might invite the Enemy to attempt to bring us to a General action—If they were desirous of that, by moving into the Country either to our right or left they could oblige us to abandon this post, or we must give up the Country to be ravaged—which with our present force I believe no person would advise to. An Army of observation in the neighbourhood of the Enemy is always liable to be brought to a General action;  but the General has ever the choice of two things—either to take a position & defend himself—Or retreat out of their way—And there is no other alternative when the Enemy are determined to bring us to action—If the Enemy wish to bring us to action they can take a position in N. Jersey, & that will compel us to go into their Neighbourhood and then the consequences of a general action may follow. For we must not niether can we give up the Country to be ravaged. It will be in vain for the Inhabitants to remove their stock, if this Army is not some where in the neighbourhood of the Enemy to protect it.
                    The State of European politicks and the promissing condition of our own affairs, forbid our taking any rash measures, or putting any thing to the hazard unnecessarily. But moving towards the Delaware is neither rash nor hazardous. It is impossible for us to take any position & not risque something—I know we uncover part of the Country by moving towards the Delaware, but the ballance of evidence is so strong in favour of it as to justify the measure. It is said not to be our interest to be in the neighbourhood of the Enemy in moving thro’ the Jerseys—They can oblige us to that by taking a position there—However I am by no means convinced they will wish to fight us in their passage, with their force divided and ours united—their ships at a distance the Country their enemies and our friends If they have orders to evacuate the Country, I am persuaded they do not want to risque an action especially upon unequal terms. If the situation of their affairs renders the evacuation of this Country necessary—if they gain a battle of us it would not alter their measures—and if they are going to form a junction of their forces to act in these States we shall never meet them upon better terms. I would not be understood from what I have said to be an adviser to a general action. I only mean to show that if in affording protiction to the Country we are brought to action, it is not upon very unequal terms on our part, & that in making this move we shall do nothing more than the enemy can oblige us to do—The probability of the enemy’s possessing themselves of this post is also objected to our moving. I confess the force of that reason does not strike me, as I cannot concieve wherein it is elligible for their purposes. But suppose they should if our sick & Stores are gone, they will gain no great advantage by the measure—I would move somewhere in the neighbourhood of New town—I would leave about five hundred men at this place with a Regt of horse to cover the Sick & Stores. But I would order a sufficiency of Waggons to be held in readiness to move off the Sick in case the Enemy should move out—Dr Shippen thinks one hundred will move the whole.
                    Query the 3d. Whether any detachment shall be made from this army to reinforce the Brigade in New Jersey or the whole Army to advance towards the Enemy to act as occasion may require.

                    Answer. I would not detach from this Army for in doing that we hazard both parts, & if it’s dangerous for the whole army to go into the neighbourhood of the Enemy it must be still more so for a part.
                    I should be for moveing with our whole force or not at all, & I think even the Brigade & the Militia of New Jersey will fall a sacrafice, if the Enemy have got such a body of horse as we are told, unless they have orders to keep at a respectable distance.
                    Query 4th. If the Army remain on it’s present ground untill the final evacuation of the City; & if the Enemy march through the Jersies, will it be practicable from t⟨he⟩ obstructions they may probably recieve from the Continental troops there in conjunction with the Militia for this army to arrive in time so as to give them any material interruption. Will it be prudent to attempt it or not, or for the Army to march directly to the North river to secure the communication with the Eastern States.
                    Answer, It is very doubtfull whether this Army if it remains on it’s present ground could get up with the Enemy in passing through the Jersies, & I should not think it worth attempting unless they took post some where & began to ravage the Country—In that case we must of necessity endeavour to protect the Inhabitants. Otherwise I would advise to march immediately for the North River.
                    Query 5th. In case this Army could get up with the Enemy shall we make a partial, or general attack or none at all.
                    Answer I cannot give any possitive answer to this query—The policy of pursuing either the one or the other of the measures depending so much upon circumstances, I would therefore advise if we should get into the neighbourhood of the Enemy to make the attack either partial or general as things may appear at the time—I would not risque a General action if it can well be avoided, unless I had some great advantage from the make of the ground or the manner of attack. Neither would I make any attack at all if it should appear at the time to be against our interest.
                    Query the 6th. How to secure the Sick & Stores in this State if we leave this Post.
                    Answer, This query has been answered before in the answer to the second query. But it may be said in addition to that: The position at Newtown will not totally uncover this Country, and should it be necessary to regain our present we can easily affect it—or if the Enemy mean to operate against the Lower counties of Delaware & Maryland we shall be only two days longer in getting up with them.
                    Newtown is a strong situation—abounds with forage, & supplies may be had down the Delaware for the support of the Army. If in taking that position we should oblige the Enemy to change their measures it must ruin their plan of operations and make them waste a great part of the  Campaigne to no purpose & give the Eastern States an opportunity to fill up their Regiments & effectually secure the North-River.

                        Nath. Greene Maj. General


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 18 June 1778
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                        Dear Genl
                        Head Quarters Boston June 18th 1778

                    This will be presented by Mr  Torrey whom I have in Consequence of Directions from the Board of war Some Time Since received nominated as a director to a Company of Bakers which I was to raise and Send on to the army, notwithstanding the Encouragment to the Bakers is Handsome yet it is Small when Compared with the Bounties given by the respective Towns to men to Compleat their Quotas Some of them giving five & Six Hundred Dollars, and many Bakers have taken the advantage of it. I have nominated but one Subdirector Thinking it best not to Engage all the Officers Untill there was a better prospect of obtaining the men, I have wrote the Board of war a State of the Company, and that Such as were Engaged had marchd for the army, I think Mr Torrey will render essential Service—he has one Baker for the makeing of Rolls perhaps equal to any in america and may be very servicable in that way to your Excellency and the General officers. I have the Honor to be with great respect your Excellencys most obt Servt

                        W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Jedediah Huntington, 18 June 1778
From: Huntington, Jedediah
To: Washington, George

                        Camp Valley Forge June 18 1778

                    I here give your Excellency my Opinion on the Sum of the Questions proposed to your Council the last Evening—the Shortness of the Time and Interruptions forbid a lengthy Deduction of the Arguments which in the Course of Information on the subject have determined me—the Mind sometimes fixes on an Opinion with pretty good  precision without being able to arrange on paper the Reasons for & against so as to show their comparative strength, I don’t, however, pretend this is the Case with me.
                    If a great Degree of Caution has marked the Tenor of your Excellencys Conduct hitherto, & you have won by Delay—no Risque should be run at this Stage of the War, when the general Complexion of our Affairs at Home & abroad is more promising than ever—One hazardous Entreprise might ruin the fair prospect.
                    The Probability of the Enemy’s marching through the Jersies & of our falling upon them to any Advantage from any Position whatever, is not strong enough to induce us to leave this Post under present Circumstances nor untill the Designs of the Enemy are more clearly ascertained.
                    In Case the Enemy begin a March through the Jersies—our whole Army ought to push to the Delaware, and there operate, or proceed to the North River by different Routes or together as Circumstances shall then dictate.
                    The sick & stores ought immediately to be disposed under the Idea of our moving to the North River. I am with submission & Respect Your Excellencys most Obedeint

                        Jed. Huntington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Henry Jackson, 18 June 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Jackson, Henry

                        sir.
                        Head Quarters Valley Forge 18 June 1778.

                    Intelligence has been recd this morning that the enemy are evacuating Philadelphia. You will hold yourself in readiness to march into the City upon the first order. I am Sir your very hble servt

                        Go: Washington