Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 10 June 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Honble Sir
[10 June 1754]

Yours of the 1st, 2d, & 4th Ulto I receivd by the Post and return your Honour my hearty thanks for your kind congratulation on our late success—which I hope to improve without risquing the imputation of rashness or hazarding what a prudent conduct woud forbid. I rejoice that I am likely to be happy under the Command off an experienced Officer and a Man of Sense—it is what I have most ardently wish’d for—I shall here beg leave to return my grateful thanks for your favour in promoting me to the Command of the Regiment—believe me Honble Sir when I assure you, my Breast is warm’d with every generous Sentiment that your goodness can inspire: I want nothing but oppertunity to testifie my sincere regard for your Person, to whom I stand indebted for so many unmerited favour’s.
Your Honour may depend, I shall myself, and will endeavour to make my Officer’s shew Captn McKay all the respect due to his Rank & merit but should have been particularly oblig’d if your Honour had declar⟨’d⟩ whether he was under my Command,

or Independant of it. however I shall be studious to avoid all disputes tht may tend to publick prejudice, but as far as I am able will inculcate harmony, and unanimity. I hope Captn McKay will have more Sense than to insist upon any unreasonable distinction, thô he and His have Comns from his Majesty; let him consider, tho. we are greatly inferiour in respect to profitable advantages, yet we have the same Spirit to serve our Gracious King as they have; and are as ready, and willing to sacrafice our lives for our Country’s good as them—and here once more and for the last time I must say this Will be a canker that will grate some Officer’s of this Regiment beyond all measure to serve upon such different terms when their Lives, their Fortunes, and their Characters are equally, and I dare say as effectually exposd as those who are happy enough to have Kings Commission’s.
I have been sollicitous on this head, have earnestly endeavour’d to reconcile the Officer’s to their appointmen⟨t⟩ and flatter myself I have succeded—having heard n⟨o⟩ mention thereof lately. I consider’d the pernicious consequences that would have attended a disunion; therefore, was too much attach’d to my Countrys Interest to suffer it to ripen after I recd your advising Letter’s. Your assurance Honble Sir of His Majesty’s favour has given me the greatest satisfaction, and hope, in which and your Interest of recommending I alone shall depend tho. I must have gratitude enough to acknowledge you have already been too bountiful of yr favour’s to me.
I am very thankful to your Honour for ordering an assortment of Indian goods, which we daily find still more necessary—I shall take care while they are under my direction that they are judiciously applied in order thereto I shall be particularly careful in consulting Mssr Croghon, and Montour, by whom I shall be advisd in all Indian affairs agreeable to your Honour’s directions.
I shall wear the Medal you were pleasd to Compli[men]t me with, with great pleasure; and shall present the other’s to Indian Chiefs as I have already done one to the Half King. I am particularly obligd in your favour of the Rum out of your own private Store I shall allways remember my duty in drinking of it and then your Honour’s health can never be forgot.
The approbation you have expressd of my conduct has given

me more pleasure than any thing wch has happen’d since my Imbarking in this Expedition. I am very Sensible if your Honour approves of my proceedings hitherto you will have no Reason to doubt my conduct hereafter; for I assure you Sir I have expected nothing but your disapprobation; such unfortunate circumstances have Interven’d to Eclipse, or Cloud the Face of things and turn them to my disadvantage: and now I shall not have it in my power to convince yr Honr, my Friends, and Country of my diligence, and application to the Art Military, as a Head will soon arrive to whom all Honour and Glory must be given.
We have been extreamely ill used by Major Carlyle’s Deputy’s; which I am heartily sorry for, as he is a Gentleman so capable of the Business himself and has taken so much pains to give satisfaction—He, I believe has been deceivd, and we have suffer’d by those under him; and by those who have contracted for Provn we have been 6 Days witht Flour, and none upon the Road to our relief that we know off. though I have by repeated expresses given timely notice to have had supplies—We have not Provision’s of any sort in the Camp to serve us 2 Days thô I have sent time after time acquainting therewith; once before, we shd have been 4 days witht if Providence had not sent a Trader from Ohio to our relief for whose flour I was obligd to give 21/8 pr Hundd.
In a late Letter to Majr Carlyle I have complaind of the tardiness of his deputy’s and desird he wd accuse them therewith as I had also done—I likewise desird that suitable stores of Ammunition might be sent up speedily, for till that is done we have it not in our power to attempt any advantageous enterprise but must wait its arrival at red Stone for which I shall set of the Moment Provision’s arrive to sustain on the March[.] Majr Carlyle mentiond a contract he had made with Mr Croghan for flour, likewise Mr Croghan’s offer of furnishing more if requir’d I therefore have desird to have all that Mr Croghon can furnish[.] Majr Muse with Captn Montour join’d us Yesterday who brought the Wampum your Honour sent to the Half King which I presented with the Medal and Speech—he is very thankful for the notice you have taken of him therein.
Majr Muse brought 9 of the Swivel’s with some powder and Ball and this Day I have engag’d 50 or 60 Horses to Bring up

more of the Ball and other Stores from Wills Ck if there shd be no Provn to load them with, they have set off accordingly the Ball are to be Bt in leathr Bags made for that purpose. I hear that Captn McKay who was to have brought the Artillery is Marchd without as Waggon’s coud not be got to convey them—I shall write to Mr Gist to procure Waggon’s if he is obligd to go to Pensylvania for them, to bring out the Artillery; if not, when Colo. Innis comes up we shall have nothing in readiness and shall slip this best season for action.
Majr Carlyle acquainted me that he had agree’d Colo. Fry for the place of Deputy paymaster and now propos’d the same to me as the Office devolv’d with the Command of the Regiment upon I hope your Honour was pleasd to countenance this as he wrote from Winchester however I returnd him no other answer than that when the Office was ascertaind to me I did not doubt but we should agree.
I flatter myself as it was annext to the Comd your Honour will please to confirm it to me that I may give Majr Carlyle an answer accordingly. I see by the resolves of the Committee that money was to be given to Colo. Fry as Comr for paying the Regimt—therefore I hope this will not be looked upon as presuming in me especially as I believe it is usual for the Colo. of every Regiment to be Paymaster. The Indians are drawing off from the River daily one of whom last Night brought News of Monacatoocha. He set of from the Logs Town abt 5 Nights ago, with the French Scalps and four Hatchets with which he intended to visit the 4 Tribes of Indian’s between this and Lake Irrie, and present each Tribe a scalp and Hatchet, and at the same time acquaint them that they expected as the English and Six Nations had hand in hand struck the French they would bring of their Tribes and join our Forces This messenger likewise says, that Monacatoocha was determined not only to Council with the chiefs of those Tribes but with their great Warriour’s also (which is customary in these cases) and was to return as soon as possible which he imagin’d would be in 15 Days but in case he should not return in that time he left orders, for the Indian’s at Logs Town to set of for red Stone Creek and expect he had cross’d the River low down (at yellow Creek) with a party of those Indians beforementd so that they would all meet at Red Stone to join their Brother’s the English He also desird there

might be no attack made against the French Fort till he should return by which time he hop’d all the Forces would be gather’d and then they would make a General attack together and gain a compleat victory at once.
 The Half King has sent Messenger’s to other places for Warriour’s who are to meet us also at Red Stone Creek: besides these, He has sent two other messages by the advice of Mr Croghon[,] Montour and myself to envite the Shawnesse to come and receive one of their Men who was Imprison’d in Carolina, and to Council with us; that to the Delawares is for the same purpose as we hear both these Nation’s have accepted the Hatchet against us—This report was first brought by an Indian sent from the Logs Town to the Half King—and since confirm’d by 9 French deserter’s who arriv’d at our Camp to Day. These Men further say that the Fort at the Forks is compleated, and proof against any attempts, but with Bombs on the Land side, there was not above 500 Men in it when they left it, but expected by this 200 more were arrivd there and 900, were order’d to follow them and might be expected in 14, or 15 Days. this I believe was more to chear the Hearts of their drooping Soldier’s and amuse the Indians than anything else[.] They had in the Fort when they left it abt 2 Months Provision’s and that upon the Spoil[.] As soon as I have got all the Intelligence out of these Deserter’s I shall send them down—I was as sensibly disappointed when I met these Persons today as ever I was in my life—by misunderstanding the Scouts that brought me Intelligence; that is mistaking 90 for 9 I march’d out at the head of 130 Men (the Majr part of effective Men in the Regiment) full with hope of procureing another present of F——h P——rs for your Honour then judge my disappointment at meeting 9 only, and those coming for protection[.] I guarded against all casualties that might happen to the Camp and order’d Colo. Muse to repair into the Fort and Erect the small Swivel which he cou’d do in an hour’s time for defence of the place. agreeable to your Honour’s desire I shall here mention the names of the Gentlemen who are to be promoted—Lieutt George Mercer by your Honour’s Comn will worthily succeed to a Captaincy—(Captn Vanbra’am has acted as Captn ever since we left Alexandria and an experienc’d good Officer he is and very worthy the Command he has enjoy’d). Mr James Towers is the

Eldest Ensign which Your Honr will please to send a Lieutenancy for—Captn Stephen I have already given a Major’s Commission to, finding one Blank amongst Colo. Fry’s Paper’s.
If merit Sir will entitle a Gentleman to your Honour’s notice, Mr Peyrouney may justly claim a share of your favours, his conduct has been govern’d by the most consummate prudence, and all his action’s have sufficiently testified his readiness to serve his Country. (which I really believe he looks upon Virginia to be) He was sensibly chagrin’d when I acquainted him with your Honour’s pleasure of giving him an Ensigncy, this he has had 12 year’s ago, and long since Command’d a Company—He was prevaild on by Colo. Fry when he left Alexandria to accept the former Commission (and assist my Detachment as I had very few Officers) till we all met on Ohio which Comission he would now have resign’d, and return to Virginia but for my great disswation to the Contrary: I have promis’d to sollicit your Honr to appoint him Adjutant, and continue him Ensign which will induce a very good Officer to remain in the Regiment—The Office of Adjutant Sir, is the most necesy belonging to a Regiment; distributing the daily order’s, receiving all reports, seeing order’s executed &ca in short an Adjutant is an indispensible Officer.
If your Honour is pleasd to indulge me in this reqt I shall look upon it in a very particular light, as I think the personal merit of the Gentleman, his knowledge of Military duty, and his activity, which is requird by the Office will render him highly worthy the favour.
There is an Ensign still Wanting, which I hope your Honour will please to send if you know of any fitt for the Office, their is a young Man in the Camp that came with Captn Lewis who has sollicited but I am yet ignorant of his Character or qualities; he is a Volunteer and recommended by Captn Lewis.
Your Honour in a Letter by Mr Ward acquainted me you had given Order’s to Colo. Fry to examine into the proceedings of Captn Trent and his Lieutt Frasier by a Court Martial—I shall be glad if you wd repeat your order’s and Instructions to me or rather to Colo Innis, for an Officer cannot be tried by those of its own Regiment only, but have a right to be heard in a General Court Martial—Captn Trents behaviour has been very tardy, and has convinc’d the World of what they before suspected—

his gt Temedity—Lieutt Frazer’s though not altogether blameless, is much more excusable than the other, for he wd not except of the Commission till he had a promise from his Captn that he shd not reside at the Fort nor visit it above once a Week or as he saw necessary.
Queen Aliquippa desird her Son (who is really a great Warriour) might be taken into Council, as She was declining and unfit for Business and have an English Name given him—I therefore call’d the Indians together by the advise of the Half King, and presented One of the medals and desird him to wear it in remembrance of his gt Father the King of England, and calld him by the Name of Colo. Fairfax which was told him signified the first of the Council—this gave him &ca great pleasure[.] I was also told an English Name wd please the Half King much, which made me presume to give him that of your Honour’s, and call him Dinwiddie—Interpreted in their Language the head of all.
I am plodding a Scheme, which if I can Execute, I hope will procure me Captn Juncaire the Indian Interpreter; I am not certain I shall be able to put my design in execution or the Effects of it; if I do, thô I shall hope the best[.] If it shd prove successful it will be glorious to have a Man of his Importance—and I don’t doubt but he will be as agreeable a present as can be made by Your Honour’s most assurd and most Obt Hble Servt

Go: Washington

NB These Deserter’s corroborate what the other said, and we suspected. La-Force & that party was sent out for Spy’s, and were to shew that Summon’s if discover’d or overpower’d by a Superior party of our’s—They say the Comr was blam’d for sending so small a party.

Since writing the foregoing, Captn McKay with the Independant Company has arriv’d, who I take to be a very good sort of a Gentleman.
For want of proper Instructions from your Honour I am much at a loss to know how to act, or proceed in regard to his company: I made it my particular study to receive him (as it was your Honour’s desire) with all the Respect and politeness that was due to his Rank, or that I was capable of shewing: and don’t doubt from his appearance and behavr but a strict intimacy will

ensue, when matter’s are put in a clearer light. but at present I assure your Honour they will rather impede the Service than forward it, for having Commissions from the King they look upon themselves as a distinct Body, and will not incorporate and do duty as our Men—but keep seperate Guards, Incamp seperate &ca. I have not offer’d to controul him in anything, or shewd that I claimd a superior Command, but in giving the Parrole & Countersign which must be the same in an Army consisting of 10 Different Nation’s, to distinguish Friends from Foes—He knows the necessity of this, yet does not think he is to receive it from me.
Then who is to give it? am I to Issue these order’s to a Company? or is an Independant Captn to prescribe Rules to the Virginia Regiment? this is the Question, but how absurd is obvious.
It now behooves Honble Sir that you lay your absolute commands on one or tother to obey—this is indispensably necessary for nothing clashes more with reason than to conceive our small bodys, can act distinctly—witht having connection with one another and yet be serviceable to the Publick—many incontestible Reasons may be given—among which I shall only innumerate one or two at this time—If I receive Intelligence of the Enemy, and have occasion to send out a Field Officers Command, which will require a proportion of his Men—It is to his choice whether he will send any or not—If he does—and it is under the Command of an Ensign or Sergeant—Shoud my Officer and his differ abt a disposition (as it is more than possible they wd as I suppose His wd be for a Regular attack which wd expose us to almost imediate death witht hope of damageing them as the French all fight in the Indian method which by this we have got some experience in) I say if they differ in their Opinions of forming the Men the Independant party may face to the Right abt and away back so it is in regard to the whole thô I dont doubt but Captn McKay is an Officer of more sense and I dare say wd do the best for the service but Sir too Commander’s is so incompatible with the Service we are engag’d in, that we cannot be so serviceable to one another or the Publick as we ought; and I am sincerely sorry that he has arriv’d before your Honour’s Instructions by Colo. Innis who I doubt not will be fully authorisd how to act but as we have no news of Colo. Innis and it is absolutely necessary that this should be known In

the mean time I have desird Major Carlyle to send this by an imediate Express to your Honour who I hope will satisfie these doubts.
Captn McKay and I have liv’d in the most perfect harmony since his arrival and have Reason’d on this calmly, and don’t doubt but if we shd have occasion to exert our whole force but we shall do as well as divided authority can. We have not had the least warm dispute—He thinks your Honour has not a power to give commissions that will command him—If so I can very confidantly say his absence wd tend to the Publick advantage. I have been particularly careful of discovering no foolish desire of com[mandin]g him neither have I intermedled with his Co. in the least or given any directions concerning it. only those General—the Word—Counter Sign—and place to repair to in case of an Alarm—none of which he thinks he shd receive. I have testified to him in the most serious manner the pleasure I shd take in consulting and advising with him upon all occasion’s and I am very sensible with him we shall never differ when your Honour decides this, which I am convinced your own just discernment and consideration will make appear, the impossibly of a Medm the Nature of the thing will not allow of it: It must be known who is to Command before order’s will be observ’d, and I am very confidant your Honour will see the absurdity & consider the Effects of Captn McKays having the direction of the Regiment, for it would certainly be the hardest thing in Life if we are to do double & trible duty, and neither be entitled to the Pay or Rank of Soldiers—That the first Column of the Virginia Regiment has done more for the Interest of this Expedition than any Company or Corps that will hereafter arrive will be obvious to them all—this Honble Sir Captn McKay did not hesitate one moment to allow since he has seen the Work we have done upon the Roads &ca—We shall part tomorrow—I shall continue my March to red Stone while the Company remains here but this Sir I found absolutely necessary for the Publick Interest. Captn McKay says that it is not in his power to oblige his Men to work on the Road unless he will engage them a Shilling Sterling a Day which I wd not choose to do and to suffer them to March at their ease whilst our faithful Soldier’s are laboriously employd carry’s an Air of such distinction that it is not to be wonder’d at, if the poor fellows were to declare

the hardship of it[.] He also declares to me that this is not particular to his Company only but that no Soldier’s subject to martial law can be obligd to do it for less—I therefore shall continue to compleat the work we have began with my poor fellows—we shall have the whole credit as none other’s have assisted.
I hope from what has been said your honour will see the necessity of giving your speedy order’s on this head. and I am sensible you will consider the Evil tendancy that will accompany Captn McKays com[mandin]g for I am sorry to observe this is what we always hop’d to enjoy—the Rank of Officers which to me Sir is much dearer than the Pay.
Captn McKay brought none of the Cannon very little Ammunition, abt 5 Days allowance of flower, and 60 Beeves. Since I have spun a letter to this enormous size, I must go a little further and beg your Honour’s patience to peruse it—I am much grieved to find our Stores so slow advancing[.] God knows when we shall [be] able to do any thing for to deserve better of our Country—I am Honble Sir with the most sincere & unfeigned Regard Yr Honour’s most Obt & most Hble Servt

Go: Washington

The Contents of this Letter is a profound Secret.


Title: To George Washington from Sarah Carlyle, 17 June 1754
From: Carlyle, Sarah
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
June 17 1754

I Received your Letter dated the 15 May, Which gave me both pleasure and pain, the first to heare of your health, the latter to be Informed of the many Risques you run, but am hopeful your good Constitution and a kind protecter will bring you out of them all as it has In the last Ingagement preserved you from harm. If I thought my Letters were Agreeabel to you I wou’d continew a Correspondence that I must own Agreeabel to me, but must not Expect it to be Carred on (on my Side) with the Spirret it ought to Inliven you Which wou’d be my desire If I cou’d.
those pleasing reflections on the hours past ought to be banished out of your thoughts, you have now a Noblier prospect that of preserveing your Country from the Insults of an Enimy. and as god has blessed your first Attempt, hope he may Continew his blessings and on your return, Who knows but fortune may have reserved you for Sum unknown She, that may recompence you for all the Tryals past, how⟨ever⟩ you have my Warmest Wishes and may be assurd that I ever am Your Sincear Wellwisher and Your Humbel Servent

Sarah Carlyle


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 18 June 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
[18 June 1754]

I rec’d Yr Letter of June 3d & I am very glad to know by it that the Half Kg with 80 Persons is arriv’d at Yr Camp. I have given all necessary Orders for a proper Supply for Yr R[egimen]t and Yr[self] not doubting but by this Time Muse has joined You—The barbarous Intents. of the French surprizes me & their Speech to the Wayandotts Twightwees &ca & it gives me Pleasure that those Nat[ion]s have declared their Inclinats. in our Favo. & their endeavouring to get the Chippaways & Ottaways to our Int[eres]t which at this Time will be of very great Service as we have begun not doubting but they will take up the Hatchet against the French. I hope the Half King’s Message by Monacatoocha will have its proper Effect by drawing these Nats. to our Intt. I approve of Yr Proposal to the Half King of sending the Women & Children into the Inhabits. if he agrees to send them they will be taken proper Care of having given Orders Accordingly.
I thorowly consider’d the great Use Montour wd be to You & was uneasy that You had no Interpr. I therefore gave him a Como. to comd a select Nr of Inds. on this Expedition, & hope he is with You before this; I further engag’d Mr Croghan to repair to Yr Camp & there to remn as Yr Interpreter. I firmly believe wt the Deserters mention in regard to the Master Traders being confined at the Fr. Fort, & of the Party sent down the Ohio to kill & take Prisoners all the English, which I beg You will make proper Use of in being on Yr Guard from any Surprise. From the Appearance of the Prisoners I judge that the Party under Jumonville was of chosen Men but I hope their Numbs. at the Fort cannot be 1100 However act with Caution as if they were so: tho’ it gives me Pleasure to find Yr resolutn not to be shaken by the apprehension of Superiour Numbers as appear’d by the late action which was conducted with good Sense & Bravery. My Godson’s Behavior gives me Pleasure, & I desire wn the Goods come out You may equip him agreeable to his Merit & his being my Godson—I have order’d the remainder of the Goods to be kept at Win[chester] till the So[uth]ern Inds. arrive there. They are to have some of them & the remainder to be sent to the Camp to be distributed to the Inds. occasionally

agreeable to Yr former Proposal. I am glad You have finished Yr Pallisadoed Fort, & hope the Independt Company from So. Car. will join You this Night—The two Compas. from NY: are every Minute expected having been embark’d above a Fortnight, & they shall have my orders to march immediately, which, with the Forces from No. Car. the So[u]th[er]n Inds. & our friendly Inds. on Ohio, wn collected in a Body will make a good Figure against any Number the Fr. can bring against Us. I have with great Pleasure recd the 3 Strings of Wam. from the Wyandotts & the other Warriors. I desire You will make a Speech in my Name & give 3 Strings properly in return—Yr Conduct gives me great Satisfactn & Pleasure & I am, Sr Yr real Friend.

P.S. If the Women & Children come into the Inhabitts: I think they’ll be taken the best care of at Win[chester] which You may propose to the Half King—I am in my way to Wmsburg but I have ordered Majr Carlyle to send me immediately any Message & Informatn that You find necessary to send.


Title: To George Washington from Bryan Fairfax, 24 June 1754
From: Fairfax, Bryan
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Alexandria June 24th 1754

The agreeable and long wished for News of the detachments under the Command of Major Muse and Capt. McKay having joined you in time to prevent the Success of any Attacks from the french was very satisfactory to me; whose mind was continually alarmed with the Apprehensions of your being forced to another battle when unprepared for it.
The Triton arrived here the 22d with the two Companies

from New York, tho’ not compleat. And a fair Wind yesterday brought up a Schooner with 107 Men, belonging to the No. Carolina Regiment that are on their March.
My Sisters are not yet returned from below, but expected in ten Days. With best Respects to the whole Corps, and wishing you all imaginable Success I remain Yr assured friend and Very humble Servt

Bryan Fairfax


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 25 June 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Williamsburg June 25th 1754

This will (I hope) be deliver’d You by Colo. James Innes, who has my Commission to command in chief on the Expedition, which I dare say will be very agreeable to You, & am in Hopes when all the Forces are collected in a Body You will be able to turn the Tables on the French and dislodge them from the Fort, & in Time to take full Possession of the Ohio river.
As I am afraid of Disputes from the Officers of the Independt Companies to prevent that I have order’d Colo. Innes to Command in Chief & You are to be second in Comd[.] I have sent a breviate Commission of Lieutt Colo. to Capt. Clark, to be third in Command, & the same to Capt. Mackay to be fourth in

Command on this Expedition; & have desired Colo. Innes to allow their Lieuts. to rank with our Capts. this is only Feathers in their Caps & to prevent any ill Blood in regard to rank; as Unanimity is the only step towards Success in the Expedition, & I doubt not all the Officers will perceive my meaning in this regulation.
I have directed His Majesty’s Present to be sent out to be given among the Indians as Colo. Innes may think proper with Your Advice. I have given Orders to keep You duely supplied with Provisions, & am in great Hopes, when joined in a Body You will be a proper Match for the French, as I am in hopes You will have a good Number of our friendly Inds. to your Assistance.
I have no more to add but recommending You to the Protection of God & wishing Success to attend all Your Undertakings I remain in Truth Sr, Yr most hble Servt

Robt Dinwiddie

P.S: My Service to all Yr Brother Officers.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 27 June 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sr
Wmsburg June 27th 1754

Yr Letter without Date I recd am sorry You have occasion to complain for want of Flouer &ca it gives me much Uneasiness, & have wrote strongly to Majr Carlyle to prevent any such Complaints for the Future, & I hope You will have no room to complain for the want of Provisions or Ammunition having desired that the last may be immediately sent out. Before this reaches You I doubt not Colo. Innes will be with You, who has my full Instructs. for conducting the Expedition, & a regulatn in regard to the Comdrs of the Independt Compas. which I hope will prevent any murmuring in regard to rank.
I wish You had suspended going to Red Stone Creek, ’till You was joined by the other Forces, being much affraid of a Surprize; You know the French act with great Secrecy & Cunning, & therefore I do not doubt You will be on Yr Guard—I shall be glad Mr Perroney be appointed Adjutant, I have left the Appointmts to Colo. Innes & on Yr Applicatn I dare say he will appoint him; & regulate the Affairs in regard to the regulars working on the roads building Forts &ca—I am excessively hurried with Affairs of great Consequence, that I cannot answer Yr Letter fully, but be always assured that I have a true regard for Yr Merit & good Conduct, & I shall be very carefull in representing the same when I have the opportunity of serving You. I refer You to Colo. Innes, who no doubt will consult with You in most Things.
I have order’d two Hogsheads of rum out, & when in want desire Colo. Innes to write to Majr Carlyle for more. I am with Esteem & respect Sr Yr Friend & humble Servt

Robt Dinwiddie

P.S: The Frenchman You recomanded does not appear. Let Capt. Trent & his Lieut. lie dormant for some Time. I am well pleas’d to have the Half King my Namesake & my Service to him.


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Campbell, 28 June 1754
From: Campbell, Daniel
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Falmo. 28 June 1754

I was agreeably favour’d with yours of 31st March last & would have wrote you sooner but was prevented for want of a proper opporty; I have since had the pleasure of Seeing the Bearer Mr Splittdorff with the fruits of your Victory over the French, the Sight of whom gave me & your other friends such satisfaction as is only felt by those who have hearts full of Mutual affection & friendship. In this affair of the Skirmish the world hereabouts with whom I am conversant talks of you as I would have them, & I hope this is only a prelude to your further Conquests. I am very certain that you have grander & more beneficial Objects in view than sitting down to read & write Letters of no importance to the Publick, but if you knew what pleasure I receive by hearing of your Circumstances & welfare you would steall a little time, if it was no more than to say you are well &c., But I hope you are not so much pinch’d for time but that you can enter on particulars, which I would now do to you but nothing remarkable or worth your ear has happen’d here. The converted Brethren whom you justly Stile so, have answer’d that Character, & nothing reigns but peace & harmony of which I wish the Continuance; On the first Saturday of this month (Our Lodge Day) Coln. John Thorton was unanimously voted to the Chair, as was Dr Halkerston to the Senior Wardenship & Mr Wm McWilliams to the Junior, Mr James Strachan Treasurer & Mr Jas McKittrick Secretary. I intend (God Willing) Shortly for Scotland which I hope will not break our Correspondance for we can at least have an intercourse by letters yearly & I shall take care to write you from thence, as you may to me Via Falmouth. Your Mother &c.

whom I frequently see are well, very lately I had the honour to dance with her, when your health was not forgot, Mr Splittdorff waits on her this Evening for her commands to you. I sincerely thank you for the countenance you shew’d Angus McDonald on my Account. I have been lately surpris’d with a story that he was Shot for stricking one of his Officers, which I hope is false if not I pity his fate, & rather wish he had dyed as a Soldier in the field of Battle, If he is alive please desire him to write me under your Cover. I hear that there are 270 Men at Alexandria of New York & Carolina forces which are to Join you soon, This day Mr Innis (who I hear is to have the command in Room of Colnl Fry) passed through this town in his way to you, as did also two of the French deserters in their way to Williamsburgh, five more are Expected to Morrow. I expect you’ll embrace the first convenient opporty of writting me either by Winchester or Alexandria & if you have time be particular as to your own & the French Circumstances; Mr Alexr Wodrow & your Falmo. friends desire to be remembred to you. With such wishes as you would desire from the sincerest friend & Brother I am Dr Sr Your affectt & Hue Servt

Daniel Campbell

PS Make my Complts to Messrs Vanbraam, Stephens, Mercer & Stobo.


Title: Minutes of a Council of War, 28 June 1754
From: Council of War
To:

At a Council of War held at Mr Gists Ju⟨ne⟩ 28th 1754
After the Junction with our own Detachmt and the Independent Company To Consider what was most prudent & necessary ⟨to⟩ be done in the present Situation of Affairs: It was Unanimously Resolved that it was Absolutly necessary to Return to our Fort at the meadows & Wait there untill Supply’d with a Stock of provisions Sufficient to serve us for some months.
The Reasons for so doing were very Weighty:
Monacattocha a man of Sense and Experience & a gre⟨at⟩ friend to the English Had left the French Fort only two days before & Had Seen the Reinforcemt arrive & heard them declare their Resolution to march and Attack the English with 800 of their own men & 400 Indians.
There was a Reinforcemt hourly expected, we learned from French Deserters.
We knew that two off our men had deserted to them and Acquaintd The Enemy of our Starving Condition and our Numbrs & Situation.
We had wanted meat & Bread for Six days already, and were still uncertain when any would Arrive. We had only about 25 head of Live Cattle the most of them Milch Cows to depend upon for 400 men, and about one quart of Salt to Use with our Meat, or preserve it. The Enemy being thrice our Number & knowing our Cir[c]umstances would not give us a Chance to fight them, but Strive to starve us out by intercepting our Convoys. The Live Cattle were Uncertain ⟨&⟩ the Enemy strove to Block us up. If the Enemy were so Void of knowledge in Military affairs as to Risk a Battle; we must give a Total defeat to thrice our Number, Otherwise be Cut to pieces by so prodigious a Number of their Indians in our Retreat, who are the best people in the World to improve a Victory and at the best lose all our

Warlike Stores & Swivles. Compelld by these Reasons it was Unanimously Resolvd to Decamp directly, and to have our Swivles drawn By the men by Reason of the Scarcity of horses.
Besides The In⟨di⟩ans declar’d that they would have leave us, unless we Returnd to ⟨the⟩ Meadows. The distance Betwixt that & Mr Gist’s house, is thirteen miles of hilly Road form’d Naturally for Ambushes. The French could not so Easily Support themselves at the Meadow as at Gists by the reason of distance to Carry the Stores & provisions & their want of horses to do it. They Can come within five miles of Gist’s house by water, Thirteen miles further of bad Road was a great Obstruction to them & gave us an Opportunity of Obtaining intilligence, and Securing our Convoys. While we lay at Gist’s house, They might pass us unobserv’d by a different Road from Red Stone that Lay about nine miles from us: But at the Meadows, both Roads are United, and the Bearing of the Mountains makes it difficult for an Enemy to Come Near or pass us without Receiving advice of it. From all these Considerations this Resolves Signed by


Title: Editorial Note
From:
To:

After GW and his officers had made their decision to return to Great Meadows and prepare their defense against the French, they began preparations for the 12–mile march from Gist’s Settlement. The mountainous rocky terrain presented great difficulties particularly for the nine swivels brought up from Great Meadows. The teams of horses that had drawn the guns from the Meadows had been sent back, leaving, as Adam Stephen later noted, only two “very indifferent teams, and few Horses.” According to Stephen’s later account, “the Officers loaded their own Horses with Ammunition, and left Part of their Baggage behind; Col. Washington setting them an Example, by ordering his Horse to be loaded first, and giving four Pistoles to some Soldiers to carry his necessary Baggage.” The nine swivels were drawn by the soldiers of the Virginia Regiment over what Stephen termed the “roughest and most hilly Road of any on the Allegany Mountains.” The temper of the soldiers and officers of the regiment was not improved by the refusal of the men of the South Carolina Independent Company to aid in porterage and scouting. According to Stephen, the “Independents refused to lend a Hand to draw the Guns, or help off with the Ammunition; nor would they do Duty as Pioneers, which had an unhappy Effect on our Men, who no sooner learned that it was not the proper Duty of Soldiers to perform these Services, than they became as backward as the Independents.” According to the account of John Shaw, a soldier in the Virginia Regiment, the party buried the ammunition they could not carry. The party reached Great Meadows on 1 July. During the march the officers and men subsisted on a meager ration of parched corn, expecting to find supplies at Great Meadows, but the food convoys had not arrived. Retreat from Great Meadows, however, was clearly impossible for exhausted men lacking any kind of transport. Stephen later recalled that “our Men had been eight Days without Bread” and they were “so harrassed with working on the Fortifications at Gist’s, and with marching, that they were no longer able to draw the Swivels.” When a convoy finally arrived, probably late on 1 July, it carried only a few bags of flour. The decision to remain at Great Meadows

was reinforced by rumors of the arrival of the New York independent companies at Alexandria and an erroneous report that the companies were already at Wills Creek on their way to reinforce the regiment. GW gave the orders to finish construction on the uncompleted fort, now aptly called Fort Necessity. On 1 July the regimental scouts informed GW that the French were at Redstone not far away. The French party, under the command of Jumonville’s brother Louis Coulon de Villiers, left Fort Duquesne on 28 June and traveled in pirogues up the Monongahela to the mouth of Redstone Creek. By midday on 1 July they had advanced to the region midway between Redstone and Mount Braddock and discovered the road GW had been working on when word came of the French advance. Interrogation of an English deserter apprehended by the Indians near Redstone confirmed French surmises that GW had retreated to Great Meadows and that the regiment had taken its artillery with it. Villiers spent the night in a driving rain at Mount Braddock and early on 3 July moved out toward Fort Necessity, using the road the English had constructed. Villiers described in his journal the approach to the English fort: “We marched the whole Day in the Rain, and I sent out Scouts one after another. I stopped at the Place where my Brother had been assassinated, and saw there yet some dead Bodies. When I came within three Quarters of a League from the English Fort, I ordered my Men to march in Columns, every Officer to his Division, that I might the better dispose of them as Necessity would require. I sent Scouts, and gave them Orders to go close up to the Camp, Twenty others to sustain them; and I advanced in Order. My Scouts soon informed me, that we were discovered, and that they were very near us: Upon which I ordered my Men in a Posture suitable for a Bush Fight. It was not long before I perceived that my Scouts had misled me, and ordered the Troops to advance on that Side where we expected them to attack us.” At daybreak on 3 July an English sentry was wounded by a French scout, and by 9:00 A.M. scouts hurriedly returning to the fort informed GW that a very large body of French was only 4 miles away. The last-minute preparations for the French attack continued, and probably shortly before 11:00 A.M. the French appeared before the fort. According to the deposition of John Shaw, early in the morning before the attack the troops “endeavoured to throw up a little Intrenchment round them about two Foot deep, but could not finish it as the French appeared betwixt nine and ten in the morning.” GW and Mackay ordered the fort’s troops under arms, and the garrison moved into the trenches. All day under a driving rain the colonial troops returned the French fire and repelled repeated French and Indian

sorties. As the day wore on their position became increasingly precarious. At 8:00 P.M. the French commander offered to parlay, and GW sent out an officer to accept the French conditions for surrender. Although some discussion preceded the acceptance of the articles of capitulation, GW and Mackay, faced with the realities of wet powder, hungry and exhausted troops, lack of provisions, and no hope of reinforcement, had little choice but to accept the French terms. Shortly before midnight on 3 July, GW and Mackay signed their names to the articles of capitulation and about 10:00 A.M. on 4 July marched out of Fort Necessity.


Title: I., 19 July 1754
From: Washington, George,Mackay, James
To:

Williamsburg 19 July 1754

The third of this Instant July, about 9 o’Clock, we received Intelligence that the French, having been reinforced with 700 Recruits, had left Monongehela, and were in full March with 900 Men to attack us. Upon this, as our Numbers were so unequal, (our whole Force not exceeding 300) we prepared for our Defence in the best Manner we could, by throwing up a small Intrenchment, which we had not Time to perfect, before our Centinel gave Notice, about Eleven o’Clock, of their Approach, by firing his Piece, which he did at the Enemy, and as we learned afterwards killed three of their Men, on which they began to fire upon us, at about 600 Yards Distance, but without any Effect: We immediately called all our Men to their Arms, and drew up in Order before our Trenches; but as we looked upon this distant Fire of the Enemy only as an Artifice to intimidate, or draw our Fire from us, we waited their nearer Approach before we returned their Salute. They then advanced in a very irregular Manner to another Point of Woods, about 60

Yards off, and from thence made a second Discharge; upon which, finding they had no Intention of attacking us in the open Field, we retired into our Trenches, and still reserved our Fire; as we expected from their great Superiority of Numbers, that they would endeavour to force our Trenches; but finding they did not seem to intend this neither, the Colonel gave Orders to fire, which was done with great Alacrity and Undauntedness. We continued this unequal Fight, with an Enemy sheltered behind the Trees, ourselves without Shelter, in Trenches full of Water, in a settled Rain, and the Enemy galling us on all Sides incessantly from the Woods, till 8 o’Clock at Night, when the French called to Parley: From the great Improbability that such a vastly superior Force, and possessed of such an Advantage, would offer a Parley first, we suspected a Deceit, and therefore refused to consent that they should come among us; on which they desired us to send an Officer to them, and engaged their Parole for his Safety; we then sent Capt. Van Braam, and Mr. Peyronee, to receive their Proposals, which they did, and about Midnight we agreed that each Side should retire without Molestation, they back to their Fort at Monongehela, and we to Wills’s Creek: That we should march away with all the Honours of War, and with all our Stores, Effects and Baggage. Accordingly the next Morning, with our Drums beating and our Colours flying, we began our March in good Order, with our Stores, &c. in Convoy; but we were interrupted by the Arrival of a Reinforcement of 100 Indians among the French, who were hardly restrained from attacking us, and did us considerable Damage by pilfering our Baggage. We then proceeded, but soon found it necessary to leave our Baggage and Stores; the great Scarcity of our Provisions obliged us to use the utmost Expedition, and having neither Waggons nor Horses to transport them. The Enemy had deprived us of all our Creatures; by killing, in the Beginning of the Engagement, our Horses, Cattle, and every living Thing they could, even to the very Dogs. The Number of the Killed on our Side was thirty, and seventy wounded; among the former was Lieutenant Mercier, of Captain Maccay’s independant Company; a Gentleman of true military Worth, and whose Bravery would not permit him to retire, though dangerously wounded, till a second Shot disabled him, and a third put an End to his Life, as he was carrying

to the Surgeon. Our Men behaved with singular Intrepidity, and we determined not to ask for Quarter, but with our Bayonets screw’d, to sell our Lives as dearly as possibly we could. From the Numbers of the Enemy, and our Situation, we could not hope for Victory; and from the Character of those we had to encounter, we expected no Mercy, but on Terms that we positively resolved not to submit to.
The Number killed and wounded of the Enemy is uncertain, but by the Information given by some Dutch in their Service to their Countrymen in ours, we learn that it amounted to above three hundred; and we are induced to believe it must be very considerable, by their being busy all Night in burying their Dead, and yet many remained the next Day; and their Wounded we know was considerable, by one of our Men, who had been made Prisoner by them after signing the Articles, and who, on his Return told us, that he saw great Numbers much wounded and carried off upon Litters.
We were also told by some of their Indians after the Action, that the French had an Officer of distinguishable Rank killed. Some considerable Blow they must have received, to induce them to call first for a Parley, knowing, as they perfectly did, the Circumstances we were in.


Title: II., 3 July 1754
From: Washington, George,Mackay, James
To:

[3 July 1754]

Capitulation accordée par ⟨M.⟩ de Vill⟨iers Capitaine⟩ D’infant⟨erie⟩ Commandant des troupes de Sa Majesté tres Chrétienne a celuy des troupes Anglais actuellement dans le fort de Nécessité qui avoit été Construit sur les terres du Domaine Du Roy
Ce 3e Juillet 1754 a huit heures du soir.
Savoir.
Comme notre intention n’a jamais été de troubler la Paix et la Bonne armonie qui régnoit entre les deux Princes amis, mais seulement de venger L’assasin qui a été fait sur un de nos officier porteur d’une sommation et sur son escorte, comme aussy d’empecher aucun Etablissement sur les terres du Roy mon maitre.
A Ces Considerations nous voulons bien accorder grace a tous les Anglois qui sont dans le dit fort aux conditions ci-après
Article pr.
Nous accordons au Commandant Anglois de se retirer avec toute sa Garnison pour s’en Retourner paisiblement dans son pays et luy promettons d’Empecher qu’il luy soit fait aucune insulte par nos françois, et de maintenir autant qu’il sera en notre pouvoir tous les sauvages qui sont avec nous.
2e
Il luy sera permis de sortir et d’emporter tout ce qui leur appartiendra a l’Exception de L’Artillerie que nous nous reservons.
3e
Que nous leur accordons les honneurs de la guerre qu’ils sortiront tambour battant avec une piece de petit Canon, voulant bien par la leur prouver que nous les traittons en amis.
4e
Que sitôt les articles signés de part et d’autre, ils ameneront le Pavillon Anglois
5e
Que demain a la pointe du jour un détachement françois ira pour faire défiler la Garnison et prendre pocession du dit fort.

6e
Que comme les Anglois n’ont presque plus de chevaux ni Boeufs, ils seront libres de mettre leurs effets en cache pour venir les charcher lorsqu’ils auront Rejoint des Chevaux; ils pourront a cette fin y laisser des gardiens en tel nombre qu’ils voudront aux conditions qu’ils donneront parole d’honneur de ne plus travailler a aucun Etablissement dans ce lieu icy ni en deça la hauteur des terres pendant une année a compter de ce jour.
7e
Que comme les Anglois ont en leur pouvoir un officier, deux Cadets et Généralement les prisonniers qu’ils nous ont faits dans l’assasinat du Sr de Jumonville, et qu’ils promettent de les renvoyer avec Sauve garde jusqu’au fort Duquesne situé sur la Belle Rivière, et que pour sûreté de cet article ainsi que de ce traitté. Mrs Jacob Vannebrame et Robert Stobo tous deux Capitaines, nous seront Remis en ôtage jusqu’a l’arrivée de nos Canadien et françois ci dessus mentionnés.
Nous nous obligeons de notre coté a donner escorte pour Remener en sureté les deux officiers qui nous promettent nos françois dans deux mois et demi pour le plus tard
fait double sur un des postes de notre Blocus de jour et an que dessus

Pr. Copie ont signé Mrs.
James Mackay, Go. Washington

Coulon Villier

pour copie Coulon Villier


Title: IV., 1786
From: Washington, George
To:

[1786]

About 9 Oclock on the 3d of July the Enemy advanced with Shouts, & dismal Indian yells to our Intrenchments, but was opposed by so warm, spirited, and constant a fire, that to force the works in that way was abandoned by them. They then, from every little rising—tree—stump—Stone—and bush kept up a constant galding fire upon us; which was returned in the best manner we could till late in the afternn when their fell the most tremendous rain that can be conceived—filled our trenches with Water—Wet, not only the Ammunition in the Cartouch boxes and firelocks, but that which was in a small temporary Stockade in the middle of the Intrenchment called Fort Necessity erected for the sole purpose of its security, and that of the few stores we had; and left us nothing but a few (for all were not provided with them) Bayonets for defence. In this situation & no ⟨prospt⟩ of bettering it terms of capitulation were offered to us by the ⟨enemy⟩ wch. with some alterations that were insisted upon were the more readily acceded to, as we had no Salt provisions, & but indifferently supplied with fresh; which, from the heat of the Weather, would not keep; and because a full third of our numbers Officers as well as privates were, by this time, killed or wounded—The next morning we marched out with the honors of War, but were soon plundered contrary to the Articles of capitulation of great part of our Baggage by the Savages. Our Sick and wounded were left with a detachment

under the care, and command of the worthy Doctr Craik (for he was not only Surgeon to the Regiment but a lieutt therein) with such necessaries as we could ⟨collect⟩ and the Remains of the Regimt, and the detachment of Regulars, took up their line for the interior Country. And at Winchester met 2 Companies from No. Carolina on their March to join them—These being fresh, & properly provided, were ordered to proceed to Wills’s Creek & establish a post (since ⟨illegible⟩ called Fort Cumberland) for the purpose of covering the Frontiers. Where they were joined by a Company from Maryland, which, about this time, had been raized—Captn McKay with his detachment remd at Winchester; & the Virginia Regiment proceedd to Alexandria in order to recruit, & get supplied with cloathing & necessarys of which they stood much in need.


Title: To George Washington from William Fairfax, 5 July 1754
From: Fairfax, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Alexandria 5th July 1754

I came hither at our Governor’s Request to view Captn Clarke’s Compa. & Captn Rutherford’s under the Care & Command of Capt. Ogilvie, who I am told have been delayd & retarded many Days, By the Muster It appeard they are not compleat.

Colo. Innes is at Winchester, waiting for these and two Compas. of his own Men now here, the rest to march from No. Carolina by Land. It will yet require a long Time before They can join You and make You regret the Hours—till then You can do little but Guard, Look out, and now & then bring in a stragling Party of other Embassadors. Thô I sometimes Flatter my Self the brave Dinwiddie & Monacatoocha (whom I desire to take the Name of Washington) will exert their Power & Skill to defeat all the Wiles of the suttle French And as by our Forces not joyning Sooner, the French have gaind the more Time to augment and strengthen their Garrisons, the most effectual & least hazardous Method to regain our Fort and Lands Seems to be, a Prevention of all supply of Provisions which a good Encampment near Them and active Scouts of our brave Indian Warriors might accomplish, And I hope our Treaty at Albany has engagd the Six Nations & Allies who reside between the Ohio & Canada to intercept all Supplys intended; whereby their present Provisions must Soon be expended. Majr Carlyle dayly expects a £1000 from Mr Allen of Philadelphia, and is to be with the Governor in less than a Fortnight to receive abt £1500, the Governor having applied to the Council who have consented that the Receivr Genl should lend £2000 out of the 2s. ⅌ Hhd Fund to the Public Treasurer to answer the Drafts on Him. In short every probable Step has been taken to purchase and send You the necessary Provisions & to assist the March of the Forces that are following. You cannot well guess at the Fatigue Mr Carlyle undergoes to acquit Himself of the various Demands, the different Corps make. It will give Me the greatest Pleasure to know from You that Colo. Innes, Captns Clarke, Mackay & Ogilvie begin and likely to hold a good Union of Friendship, Councils and joint Operations to fulfil his Majesty’s Commands and Expectations from Them—I have no doubt of your friendly Agreement with Them on their own Merit, but may be enlargd for your late Brothers Sake, formerly known to Colo. Innes & Capt. Clarke on the Carthagena Expedition.
G. Fx has been lately visited wth the wonted Agues & Fevers, but hopes Soon to amend as Mrs Fx, Miss Bety Cary & Miss Hannah returnd to Us last Sunday, And I left them on Monday to muster the Soldiers here; have not heard from Them who

know not of my present Writing. I suppose You will at least have Weekly Matter to insert in our Gazette which your Friends & Mr Hunter will be glad to Publish. Lt. Colo. Grainger & Capt. Woodrow I believe You will find worthy of yr Acquaintance. Mr Henry Vanmeter now here has engagd to Send You Beeves and wt else his Influence can get for You that’s wanting—In short yr Friends are very anxious to have You constantly & wel supplied. As Mr Carlyle writes, I need not add more particulars, referring to Him, Majr Clarke &c. Please to make my Sincere Complements & best Wishes known to your worthy Officers, my Brethren & faithful Warriors Dinwiddie[,] Washington & Fairfax likewise to all other the cordial Allies of Great Britain—I remain dear Sir Yr truly affecte Friend &c.

W. Fairfax


Title: James Innes to GW or James Mackay, 5 July 1754
From: Innes, James
To: Washington, George,Mackay, James

Gentlmen
Winchester 5 July 1754 Eleven Oclock

I have this moment received your Express & am verey glade to find you are Joined. I wish My Regemt, with the New York Companeys were arrived here they are upon ther march, nor cann I laren the reason of there so long Stay att Bell Haven you may depend I will make all the heast in my Power to join you[.] If you Should be Oblidged to retire you must demolish your Works other ways it is making a Cover for the enemie I have forwarded your Express to the Troops on there march. It is what I daily expected they would by a Strong Detatchment inquare about there partey Lost. pray leave no room for A Surprize but be vigilant. & depend We will make them retire in there turne I long to be with you & this would be a fine Oppertunity to prevent there returning to there forte. I wish you good Sucess & am your Most Hue Servtt

James Innes


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 28 July 1754 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

 Letter not found: to Robert Dinwiddie, 28 July 1754. On 3 Aug. 1754 Dinwiddie wrote to GW: “I recd Yrs of the 28th ulto.”


Title: Notes on the Navigation of the Potomac River above the Great Falls, July–August 1754
From: Washington, George
To:

[July–August 1754]

 Reference Above the Mouth of Shan[andoa]h there is but one fall and that is smooth and shallow which prevents Craft from passing at all times—Abt ½ Mile below is the place Esteem’d the most difficult It runs exceeding swift for wch reason it is call’d the spout and the bottom being very Rocky occasions rough water which will prevent small Canoes ever passing as our’s that was large had like to have fill’d—There continues for near three Miles Rocky & uneven—Water in which dist[anc]e and towards the latter end there is two other Falls one swift & ugly but when the River is higher than ordinary a passage may be had r[oun]d a small Island—which passage may be greatly improved—There ⟨is⟩ also a passage at the spout which vessels may, and have been hald up by near the shoar, and this may yet be improved—Abt 12 Miles below this is another Fall but very easy and passable and abt 2 Miles from that is a cluster of small Islands with many Rocks and swift water which render’s the passage somewhat precarious: from this to the Seneca Fall is a fine smooth even Water as can be desir’d The Seneca Fall is easily pass’d in two places and Canoes may continue within two Miles of the Great Falls but further it is not pos⟨sible⟩ therefore the expence and trouble of going up Seneca Falls will not answer the Charges as all Carriages are oblig’d to pass difficult Bridge from whence it is but 8 Miles to the Landing place at Mr Barnes Quarter at the Sugerlands and is 5 Miles to any Landing below the aforesd Falls of Seneca.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 1 August 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir—
Wmsburg Augst 1st 1754

The Council met Yesterday & considering the present State of our Forces, & reason to think the French will be strongly reinforc’d next Spring—It was resolv’d that the Forces shou’d immediately march over the Allegany Mountains, either to dispossess the French of their Fort, or build a Fort in a proper Place that may be fix’d on by a Council of War—Colo. Innes has my Orders for the executing the above Affair—I am therefore now to order You to get Your regiment compleated to 300 Men, & I have no doubt but You will be able to enlist what You are defficient of Yr Number very soon, & march directly to Wills’s Creek to join the other Forces—And that there may be no Delay, I order You to march what Companies You have compleat; & leave orders with the Officers remaining to follow You as soon as they have enlisted Men sufficient to make up their Compas.
You know the Season of the Year calls for Dispatch; I depend on Yr former & usual Diligence, & Spirit, to encourage Yr People to be active on this Occasion. Consult with Majr Carlyle

what Amunition may be wanting that I may send it up immediately: I trust much on Your Diligence & Dispatch in geting Your regiment to Wills’s Creek as soon as possible—Colo. Innes will consult You in the appointing of Officers in Yr regiment—Pray consider if possible or practicable to send a Party of Indians &ca to destroy the Corn at the Fort & Logstown this would be of great Service, & a very great Disappointment to the Enemy. I can say no more but to press Dispatch of Yr Regiment to Wills’s Creek, & that Success may attend our Arms & just Expedition is the sincere Desire of Sr Yr very hble Serv.

Robt Dinwiddie

Enclos’d You have Yr Como.


Title: From George Washington to William Fairfax, 11 August 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Fairfax, William

To the Honble William FairfaxHonble Sir,
Alexandria, 11th of August, 1754.

Since my last to you, I have received, by Mr Spritdorph, the Letter therein alluded to (of the 1st Inst.) the contents of which are nearly the same with the other received from the Governour four days before, dated the 3d Inst.—The following is an exact copy of it. “The Council met yesterday, and, considering the present state of our Forces, and having reason to think that the French will be reinforced next Spring—It was resolved, that the Forces should immediately march over the Alegany Mountains, either to dispossess the French of their Fort, or build one in a proper place that may be fixed upon by a Council of War—Colo. Innis has my orders for executing the above affair—I am therefore, now, to order you to get your Regiment completed to 300 Men, and I have no doubt, that you will be able to enlist what you are deficient of your number, very soon; and march directly to Will’s-Creek to join the other Forces; and, that there may be no delay, I order you to march what Companies you have complete; and leave orders with the Officers remaining, to follow you as soon as they shall have enlisted men sufficient to make up their Companies. You know, the Season of the Year

calls for dispatch—I depend upon your former, usual diligence and spirit, to encourage your people to be active on this occasion. Consult with Maj. Carlyle what ammunition may be wanted, that I may send it up immediately. I trust much to your diligence and dispatch, in getting your Regiment to Will’s-Creek as soon as possible.
“Colo. Innis will consult you, in the appointment of Officers for your Regiment. Pray consider, if practicable, that, to send a party of Indians, &c. to destroy the Corn at the Fort and Log-Town, would be of great service to us, and a considerable disappointment to the Enemy. I can say no more, but to press dispatch of your Regiment to Will’s-Creek; and, that success may attend our arms and just Expedition, is the sincere desire of, Sir, Yr’s &c.”
Thus, Sir, you will see, I am ordered, with the utmost dispatch, to repair to Will’s-Creek with the Regiment: to do which, under the present circumstances, is as impracticable as it is (as far as I can see into the thing) to dispossess the French of their Fort; both of which, with our means, are morally impossible.
The Governour observes, that, considering the state of our Forces at present, it is thought advisable to move out immediately to dispossess the French: now that very reason, “the state of our forces,” is, alone, sufficiently opposed to the measure, without a large addition to them. Consider, I pray you, Sir, under what unhappy circumstances the men at present are; and their numbers, compared with those of the Enemy, are so inconsiderable, that we should be harrassed and drove from place to place at their pleasure: and to what end would the building of a Fort be, unless we could proceed as far as RedStone, where we should have to take water, and where the enemy can come with their artillery, &c.—I can not see, unless it be to secure a Retreat, which we should have no occasion for, were we to go out in proper force & properly provided, which I aver can not be done this Fall: for, before our Force can be collected with proper Stores of Provisions, Ammunition, working-tools, &c. it would bring on a season in which Horses can not travel over the mountains on account of Snows, want of Forage, slipperiness of the Roads, high waters, &c. Neither can men, unused to that life, live there, without some other defence from the weather than Tents: this I know of my own knowledge, as I

was out last winter from the 1st of Novr ’till sometime in January; and notwitstanding I had a good Tent, was as properly prepared, and as well guarded, in every respect, as I could be against the weather, yet the cold was so intense that it was scarcely supportable. I believe out of the 5 or 6 men that went with me, 3 of them, tho’ they were as well clad as they could be, were rendered useless by the Frost, and were obliged to be left upon the Road. But the impossibility of supporting us with provisions, is alone sufficient to discourage the attempt; for, were Commissaries, with sufficient funds, to set about procuring Provisions and getting them out, it is not probable that enough can be conveyed out this Fall to support us thro’ the Winter: for you are to consider, Sir, as I before observed, that the snows and hard frosts set in very early upon those Mountains, and as they are, in many places, almost inaccessible at all times, it is then more than Horses can do to clamber up them; but allow that they could, for want of provender, they will become weak and die upon the Road as ours did, tho’ we carried Corn with us for that purpose, and purchased from place to place. This reason holds good, also, against driving out livestock, which, if it could be done, would save some thousands of Horse-Loads that might be employed in carrying Flour (which alone, not to mention Ammunition, Tools, &c.) we shall find, will require more Horses than at this present moment can be procured with our means.
His Honour also asks, whether it is practicable to destroy the Corn at the Fort and at Log-Town? at this question I am a little surprized; when it is known we must pass French-Fort and the Ohio to get to Log-Town; and how this can be done with inferior numbers, under the disadvantages we labour I see not; and of the ground to hope we may engage a sufficient party of Indians for this undertaking, I have no information nor have I any conception: for it is well known, that notwithstanding the Expresses that the Indians sent to one another, & all the pains that Mountour and Croghon (who by vainly boasting of their interest with the Indians, involved the Country in great calamity, by causing dependance to be placed where there was none) could take; never could induce above 30 fighting Men to join us, and not more than one half of those, serviceable upon any occasion.

I could make many other remarks equally true and pertinent; but to you, Sir, who I am sensible have acquired a pretty good knowledge of the Country, and who see the difficulties that we labour under in getting proper necessaries, even at Winchester, it is needless: therefore I shall only add some of the difficulties which we are particularly subjected to in the Virginia Regiment: And to begin, Sir; you are sensible of the sufferings our Soldiers underwent in the last attempt (in a good season) to take possession of the fork of the Allegany and Monongalia. You also saw the Disorders those sufferings produced among them at Winchester after they returned: They are yet fresh in their memories, and have an irritable effect. Thro’ the indiscretion of Mr Spiltdorph, they got some intimation that they were again ordered out, and it immediately occasioned a general clamour, and 6 Men to desert last night; this we expect will be the consequence every night, except prevented by close confinement.
In the next place, I have orders to compleat my Regiment; and not a 6d. is sent for that purpose. Can it be imagined, that subjects fit for this purpose, who have been so much impressed with, and alarmed at our want of, Provisions (which was a main objection to enlisting before) will more readily engage now without money, than they did before, with it! We were then from the first of February ’till the first of May and could not compleat our 300 Men by 40; and the Officer’s suffered so much by having their Recruiting expences witheld, that they unanimously refuse to engage in that Duty again without they are refunded for the past, and a sufficient allowance made them in future. I have, in the next place (to shew the state of the Regiment) sent you a report thereof; by which you will perceive what great deficiencies there are of Men, Arms, Tents, Kettles, Screws, (which was a fatal want before) Bayonets, Cartouch-Boxes, &c. &c. &c. Again, were our Men ever so willing to go, for want of the proper necessaries of life, they are unable to do it; the chief part are almost naked, and scarcely a man has either Shoes, Stockings or Hat. These things the Merchants will not credit them for; the Country has made no provision; they have not Money themselves; and it can not be expected that the Officers will engage for them again, personally, having suffered greatly already on this head: especially, now when we have all

the reason in the world to believe, they will desert whenever they have an opportunity. There is not a man that has a Blanket to secure him from cold or wet. Ammunition is a material article, and that is to come from Williamsburgh or wherever the Governour can procure it. An account must be first sent of the quantity which is wanted; this added to the carriage up, with the necessary Tools, &c. that must be had, as well as the time of bringing them round, will, I believe, advance us into that season, when it is usual, in more moderate climates, to retreat into Winter Quarters, but here, with us, to begin a Campaign.
The promises of those Traders, who offer to contract for large Quantities of Flour, are not to be depended upon; a most flagrant instance of which we experienced in Croghon, who was under obligation to Maj. Carlyle for the delivery of this Article in a certain time, and who was an eye-witness to our Wants; yet had the assurance, during our sufferings, to tantalize us, and boast of the Quantity he could furnish, as he did of the number of Horses he cou’d command; notwitstand we were equally disappointed of these also: for out of 200 head he had contracted for, we never had above 25 employed in bringing the flour that was engaged for the Camp; and even this, small as the quantity was, did not arrive within a month of the time it was to have been delivered. Another thing worthy of consideration, is, if we depend on Indian assistance we must have a large quantity of proper indian goods to reward their Services, & make them presents; it is by this means alone that the French command such an interest among them, & that we had so few: This, with the scarcity of Provisions, was proverbial; would induce them to ask, when they were to join us, if we meant to starve them as well as ourselves—But I will have done; and only add assurances of the regard and affectn with which I am, &c.

Geo. Washington


Title: To George Washington from James Innes, 11 August 1754
From: Innes, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Winchester 11th Augst 1754

Your favour of the Eight instt I receivd & Observed the contents I received no other Letter from the Governor than what you brought & which I communicated to you only with the Skeem of building a Logg Forth & Magazeen to receive the Provisions with which I have Acquanted Major Carlyle by Mr Wood fully. & to which I referr you, I also referr you to him for my Account in Relation to my Late Regement. & that you have hear Arems Tents & Amunition Sufisient when your Regement is compleat I intend to proceed for Willis Creek tomorrow or Tewsday & Shall long much to See you. I have some better hope to day than I hade yesterday of being able to raise one Companey from the Regement. I am Sir Your Mostt Obedtt Hule Servtt

James Innes


Title: From George Washington to James Mackay, 15 August 1754 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Mackay, James

Letter not found: to James Mackay, 15 Aug. 1754. On 27 Aug. 1754 Mackay wrote to GW: “I was favourd with yours of the 15 Instt.”


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 20 August 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Honble Sir
Alexandria 20th of August 1754

Mr Peyrouney solliciting for leave to attend the Assembly,

hoping to have some allowance made for his loss of Cloaths &ca which he sustaind in common with us all, and being not thoroughly cur’d of his Wounds which has hitherto render’d him unfit for Duty I thought it proper to indulge him in his request, and he now comes for the purpose aforesaid—By him I again take the Liberty of recommending to your Honour the great necessity there is of a regulation in the Soldier’s pay. and that a deduction be made for the Country to furnish them with cloath’s; otherwise, they never will be fit for Service; they are now Naked and can’t get credit even for a Hatt, and are teazing the Officer’s every Day to furnish them with these and other necessarys—Another thing which should be fix’d indisputably, is the Law we are to be guided by; whethe[r] Martial, or Military if the former I must beg the favour of Your Honour to give me some written order’s, & indemnification; otherwise I cannot give my assent (as I am liable for all the proceedings) to any judgement of the Martial Court that touches the Life of a Soldier; tho. at this time, there is absolute necessity for it, as the Soldier’s are deserting constantly, and Yesterday while we were at Church 25 of them collected and were going of in Face of there Officer’s, but were stop’d and Imprison’d, before the Plot came to its full hight. Colo. Innis did not fill up any Commission’s for the Virginia Regiment which has given those that were entitled to promotion some uneasiness; his reason’s were, it wou’d be an unnecessary expence to the Country till there were order’s to recruit, but this I think shou’d not have been consider’d while it is remember’d who small encouragement is shewn them upon every occasion—another motive which I believe served to prevent it, was, his dislike to the tenour of the Commissions, which favourd so much of the Militia: he told me he woud send down another for your Approbation, & Colo. Fairfax has also taken another both of which is greatly preferable to those by which we act. and here I must beg leave to acquaint your Hono⟨r⟩ that the one you sent me is not signed—The Officers are uneasy abt their Pay, and think it hard to be kept out of it so long; they hope your Honour will order, that the dates of their Commission’s be from the vacancy’s that happen’d, of which I have enclos’d a list for information hoping with them your Honour will be kind enough to fill them up yourself and send such Comn as were sent for Presedents.

Mr West Lieutt of Vanbraam’s Company has resign’d his commisn which I herewith send—I also inclose a List of Medecines which the Doctr desires may be procur’d for the use of the Regiment; he sollicits much for a Mate & I believe it necessary as he often has more business than he can well manage, then were a large Detacht sent upon Duty it woud be imprudent to go witht a surgeon: If your Honour shou’d think proper to promote Mr Peyrouney we shall be at a loss for a good Disciplinarian to do Adjutants Duty wch requires a perfect knowledge of all kinds of the Duty. I shoud therefore take it extreamely kind if you woud be pleas’d to confer the Office upon Mr Frazier who I think I can fully answer for let his former conduct be what it will. We have Catchd two Deserter’s which I keep imprison’d till I receive your Honours answer how far the Martial Law may be extended, and it is absolutely necessary that an Example be made of some for warning to other’s, for there is scarce a Night, or oppertunity but what some or other are deserting, and often two three or 4 at a time; we always advertize, & pursue them as quickly as possible, but seldom, to any purpose: the expences attending this will fall heavy upon the Country while this Spirit prevails. I am Your Honours Most Obt & most Hble Servt

Go: Washington

NB I shou’d be extreamely pleas’d if your Honour thought it advisable to send these Commissions by Majr Carlyle or the first Opperty.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 21 August 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Honble Sir
Alexandria 21st Augt 1754

The bearer hereof Mr Wright discovering an Inclination to the Art Military, & having in some Measure made it his Study I have taken the liberty to recommend him to your Honour for one of the Vacancy’s in the Virginia Regiment; this I do with more assurance of succeeding, as Mr Wrights Character for good Sense and Sobriety, will render him worthy the favour you may please to confer, and I dare venture to say, he will endeavour to deserve.
Yesterday Mr Perouney set of from this; who I hope will also meet with your Honour’s approbation and indulgence, as his behaviour has merited a reward from his Country (such he looks upon this to be).

Mr Campbell arriv’d Yesterday after appointing the Muster’s for the Northern Neck. I was not a little surprisd to hear him say he was to have the Half of my Salary especially when he at the same time gave me to understand he expected it was the half of the 70 exclusive of the 30 which he has for two County’s which is near a third of what I get for the whole 11 Countys—a great disproportion this—I hope your honour gave Mr Campbell no room to expect this, for I think it exceeding hard that I shoud give so much more for a deputy than other’s, especially when the duty is much easier: for the Middle district which has 18 Countys, Muse gives but 40£s Colo. Thornton give’s yet less for his, while I by Mr Campbell⟨’s⟩ acct is to give £65 or at any Rate 50£—I hope if your Honour is kind enough to continue me in that Office you will not oblige me to give such an exorbitant allowance to a Person who by all accts knows nothing of the duty he has under taken: I can get a Person whom I have taken great pains myself to teach, and who is now perfectly acquainted with every part of the Service; to do the duty of the whole, for the same that other’s give: and I shou’d be very glad for the sake of having the Countys kept in tolerably discipline, and for the favour of obliging me your Honour woud indulge me in this: as I will engage it shall turn more to the Publick advantage, whose Interest I am certain from well founded Reasons you espouse preferable to that of private—I am with all due regard, & imaginable respect your Honour’s Most Obd. & most Hble Servt

Go: Washington

I must again mention Mr Frazier as a person we shall much need if Mr Peyrouney is promoted as I hope he will.


Title: To George Washington from James Mackay, 27 August 1754
From: Mackay, James
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Wills Creek [Md.] 27 Augst 1754

I was favourd with yours of the 15 Instt by Mr Cowpar which was the first I heard of the Suddent Resolves, and your being So Well provided to enable you to Comply wt your Instructions gives grate hops of the Success of the Interpraise what ever it is Not doubting but that every other thing upon which an expedition of Such Importance depends Will be equely taken care of; Some days ago we had 12 head of Cattle but they went away and I Sappose after the example of the No. Carolina Regt have gon home but by this is not all our dependance for we have about 40 lb of Baccon and 3 Milk Cows one of which we have eat this day So if we go Soon on this new Sceam there is no doubt of our being well supplyed there being Such large provision made for it.
We have been almost drownded here being threatned wt a Second Deludge for it has Reand 40 days and 40 Nights which has causd great Sickness among my people, and the Rievers are so high that Colo. Innes and the New York Compys have not been able to Cross the So. Branch.
I Shall take care that you Shall have your Rifle, but the man that has it hops that youl be So good as to gett him Some other Rifle for it, as you Was plasd to accquaint every person that whatever they Carried Should be their own and every person have payd for what ever they Returnd.
I most begg of you when you are getting nesessarys for your Regiment that youl think of your fellow Sufferers and put the Commissary in maind that we have no tents or any other Nesessarys fitt to take the Field wt.

I Shall be Oblidgd to you if youl be so good as to let me know the Resolves of your assambly when you are lett into that Secrat the Genn wt me Joins in our Compliments to you and the Genn of your Corps. I am Sr Your Most Obedient Humble Servt

James Mackay


Title: To George Washington from John Ridout, 27 August 1754
From: Ridout, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Annapolis [Md.] August 27th 1754

As Several of the Soldiers lately belonging to the North Carolina Companies under the Command of Colo. Innes have applyed to the Recruiting Officers who have His Excellency’s Commission for raising Men in this Province; declaring they were discharged by Colo. Innes & petitioning to be admitted into the MaryLand Company have upon their producing a Sort of Discharge signed by Colo. Innes’s Order been inlisted here. His Excellency desires You would please to inform him of what You know of Colo. Innes’s Design by giving such Discharges, whether You think He will expect the Men ever to return to him again, or whether You would make any Objection To them if any of them were to offer to serve under your Command. I am Sir Your mo. obedt humb. Servt

J. Ridout


Title: Advertisement, 28 August 1754
From: Washington, George
To:

Alexandria, August 28, 1754

Whereas a great many false Reports have been raised, by Deserters from the Virginia Regiment, that they were discharged from said Regiment, had Leave to be absent for a Time, or that the Regiment was entirely broke: By which feign’d Stories, they have been allowed to pass free and unmolested. This is, therefore, to give Notice, that all Soldiers who are found two Miles distant from the Camp or Quarters, without a Furlough or Discharge signed by me, or the Commanding Officer for the Time being, may be deem’d and taken for Deserters. And for Encouragement of taking up and securing such, a Reward of One Pistole shall be given for any Deserter so taken and brought to the Quarters, if within ten Miles of the Place; and Two Pistoles, if taken at a greater Distance.

George Washington


Title: From George Washington to Charles Carter, August 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Carter, Charles

Sir
[Alexandria, August 1754]

Your desire, added to my own curiosity engaged me the last time I was in Frederick to return down by Water to discover the Navigation of Potomack—the following are the observations I mad thereupon—From the Mouth of Paterson’s Creek to the begg of Shannondoah Falls there is no other obstacle than the shallowness of the Water to prevent Craft from passing—the first of those Falls is also even and shallow but swift and continues so with interruptions of Rocks to what is known by the Spout wch is a Mile & half from this their is Rocky swift and very uneven water for near 6 Miles in which distant there are 4 Falls; the first of which is tolerably clear of Rocks but shallow yet may be much amended by digging a Channel on the Maryland

side abt 2 Miles from this and ½ Mile below the Mouth of Shannondoah is what they call the Spout. which is the great (& ind[ee]d almost the only) difficulty of the whole it has a considerable Fall the water being confined shoots with great Rapidity & what adds much to the difficulty is the bottom being exceeding Rocky occasions a Rippling so prodigious that none but boats or large Canoes Can pass—The canoe I was in whch was not small had near sunk having received much water on both sides and at the hd—Their may be a passage also got round this also upon the Maryland shoar that Vessels may be hald up after removing some Rocks which a moderate expence may accomplish—One of the other two Falls is swift and ugly not much unlike the Spout but when the River is higher than ordinary a passage may be had round a small Island on the Other Side—which passage may be greatly improved. abt 8 Miles below this there is another Fall which is very easy & passable and abt 2 Miles from that is a cluster of small Islands with many Rocks and swift water which renders the passage somewat precarious: From this to the Seneca Fall the Water is as smooth & even as can be desird, with scarcely any perceptable Fall—The Seneca Fall is easily pass’d in two places and Canoes may continue within two Miles of the Gt Falls but further it is not possible therefore the advantage of passg this Fall will not be adiquate to the expense and trouble will not answer the Charges as all Carriages for the benefit of a good Road are obligd to pass difficult Bridge from whence it is but 8 Miles to the Landing place at the Sugerland Island and is 5 Miles to the Lowest landing that can be h’d below the aforesd Falls of Seneca. Thus Sir as far as I was capable, have I given you an acct of the Conveniences and inconveniences that attend the Navigation of Potomack frm the Fall up which I doubt but you will readily concur with me in judging it more convenient least expensive and I may further say by much the most expeditious way to the Country. There is but one objection that can obviate this Carriage & that is the Scarcity of water in the best season of the year for this kind of conveyance.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, August 1754
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Gouvernour DinwiddieHonble Sir,
[Alexandria, August 1754]

As I wrote so lately and fully, to you by Mr Polson, on the subject of the Orders I had received, I have little to add now, only to acqaint your Honour, that as far as it is in my power, I shall endeavour to comply with them: what Men we can, we do enlist; but to send Officers into different parts for that purpose, would be unavailing, as they neither have money, nor can get any. I have given Maj. Carlyle Memorandums of several Questions to ask your Honour, to which I beg your answers, that I may be governed thereby. I have also sent some of the Soldier’s accompts, in hope of getting the money for them, as they are uneasy on that head. There are others of them that are rendered useless by their late wounds; therefore I hope your Honour

will recommend it to the consideration of the Assembly, that some provision may be made to keep them from want.
I have also desired Maj. Carlyle to mention to your Honour, the great necessity there is for regulation in the Soldiers’ pay; and that a certain part may be deducted and appropriated for clothing: unless this be done, we shall ever be in the distressed condition we are at present, of which Maj. Carlyle can fully inform you; and to whom I shall refer your Honour for many particulars, especially the consequence of going as high as Will’s-Creek, if we can not march farther: as, for the reasons which have been alledged, I fear we can not, were we to attempt it; and, at that place, for want of proper conveniences, we could not remain. I have the honour to be &c.

Geo. Washington


Title: From George Washington to James Innes, 4 September 1754 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Innes, James

Letter not found: to James Innes, 4 Sept. 1754. On 8 Sept. 1754 Innes wrote to GW: “Your favour of the 4th Septr I received.”


Title: To George Washington from William Fairfax, 5 September 1754
From: Fairfax, William
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Williamsburg, 5. Sept. 1754

Capt. Stobo by the trust and care of Delaware George had a letter conveyed to the Governor, in which advice was by no means to let Mon. le Force return which is considered & accordingly ordered[.] The news of your engagement & rout at the Meadows did not give the public more affecting concern than the unhappy conclusion of our present meeting. Instead of augmenting our forces, the Governor perhaps will have some difficulty to get means for the pay and maintenance of the remaining few, you now have. There have been solicitors waiting in hopes of getting commissions, of which number Dr Stuart is foremost in the Governor’s list, but all are likely to be disappointed. We have some intimation that the King has ordered all the Officers of the late American Regiment now on half pay to repair thither & do duty. We had a bill for mutiny & desertion before us; but it being for no longer than one year, we amended it for two years or so long as the expedition required. It was disagreed to so that all our efforts to promote the public service have miscarried[.] Mr Carlyle has had harsh reflections cast on him by warm Calumniators which are great discouragements. In short our prospect is gloomy. The expectation of our ship of war in which Govr Dobbs comes to consult & advise with ours about the operations of the Ohio adventure, may bring us His Maj’ys further instructions & some aid, which admits a little hope our affairs may have a better aspect. I shall be glad when I can write on a more pleasing subject. In the mean time I wish you may be able to enjoy the fruits of that philosophic mind you have already begun to practice. If your winter Quarters should

be at Alexandria, We may pass some of your leisure hours together at Bellevoir. Pray make my compliments to all enquiring friends, & continue to believe that I am, Dear Sir, Your assured friend & affec. servt

W. Fairfax


Title: To George Washington from William La Péronie, 5 September 1754
From: La Péronie (Peyroney, Peyrouny), William
To: Washington, George

Sir
[Williamsburg] September 5 1754

As I imagine you By this time, plung’d in the midst of dellight heaven can aford: & enchanted By Charms even stranger to the Ciprian Dame I thought it would Contribue a litle to the variety of yours amusement to Send you few lines to peruse.
I shan’t make Bold to describe the procedings of the house, which no doute you have had already some hint of. I only will make use of these three expresion related to those of the oracle: furtim venerunt/ invane Sederunt/ & perturbate Redierunt.
But all that is matere of indifference to the wirginia Regiment Collo. Wasington will still Remain att the head of it, and I spect with more esplendour than ever: for (as I hope) notwistanding we will Be on the British stabichment, we shall be augmanted to Six houndred & by those means entitle you to the Name not

only of protector of your Contry But to that of the flower of the wirginians, By the pouvers you’ll have in your hands to prove it So.
Many enquired to me about Muses Braveries; poor Body I had pity him ha’nt he had the weakness to Confes his Coardise him Self, & the inpudence to taxe all the reste of the oficiers withoud exeption of the same imperfection. for he said to many of the Cousulars and Burgeses that he was Bad But th’ the reste was as Bad as he.
To speak francly had I been in town at the time I Cou’nt help’d to make use of my horse’s wheup for to vindicate the injury of that vilain.
he Contrived his Business so that several ask me if it was true that he had Challang’d you to fight: my answer was no other But that he Should rather chuse to go to hell than doing of it. for had he had such thing declar’d: that was his Sure Road—I have made my particular Business to tray if any had some Bad intention against you here Below: But thank God I meet allowais with a goad wish for you from evry mouth each one entertining such Caracter of you as I have the honnour to do my Self who am the Most humble And Obediant of yours Servants

Le Chevalier De Peyrouny

His honour the Governor did Grand me the Capt. Comission after having being recomand to him from the house of Burgess and parlament and you Sir to whom I am infinitly oblig’d[.] If th’ was your pleasure I Should stay some few dais more here below I should take it as a great favour not beeng yet well recoverd from my wond I beg’d it already from the governor which granted. I hope the same indulgence from you when you’ll be please to send me your orders my adress is at williamsburg at Mr finis.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 11 September 1754
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sr
Williamsburg Septr 11th 1754

No doubt You have heard that our Assembly is prorogu’d without granting any Supplies; Under this unexpected Disappointment, I fear we are not Numbers sufficient to attack the Fort taken from Us by the French: Therefore I order You to give a Detachment of Forty or Fifty Men to Capt. Lewis, with them he is to march immediately for Augusta County, in order to protect our Frontiers from the Incursions of small Parties of Indians, & I suppose some French, order him to march immediately & to apply to Colo. Patton the County Lieut. who will direct him where to proceed, that he may be the most usefull—With the remainder of our regiment You are to march to Wills’s Creek, to join the other Forces in executing such Orders as I may see proper to direct; Major Carlyle will supply Your Men with Necessaries, not doubting they will agree to have the said Supplies stop’t from their Pay; I therefore desire You will immediately march them to the Place above mentioned. You know best whether You can venture to march them from Rock Creek to Wills’s—This late Disappointment from the Assembly has entirely defeated the Operations I had proposed; however its

probable on their next Meeting they will more seriously consider the great Danger our Country is exposed to & grant proper Supplies—I am sorry my Clerk sent Yr Commission unsigned, it’s a very great Omission, if You had sent it down the Date should have been alter’d, I mean a few Day’s after Colo. Fry’s Death, & I would have Signed it & returned it to You.
I have appointed Mr Peyroney Capt. agreeable to Your recommendation. And I now send You Commisss. agreeable to Your List, which deliver to them, & let them know, that I expect they will discharge their Duties with good Spirit, & a proper Example of Courage & good Conduct. I have only sent You four Commissions for Ensigns, till I have a proper Supply for their Payment. I think You may order Wm Wright to join Capt. Lewis when he goes to Augusta. As to Fraizer he is not here at present, I shall consider what You write in regard to him.
Mr Campbell is to have 50 ⅌ Ann. from Your Salary as Adjutant, & that is what Finnie receives from Mr Muse. I expect You will march accordingly for Wills’s Creek, & send me an Acct of the Number of Men. You have not sent Acct of the Pay of Your Regiment; as the Pay was ordered for the whole Number, there must be great Saving from the Dead & Deserters. I have not yet been able to procure a proper Allowance for the poor Sick & Wounded, which gives me Concern; Majr Carlyle in the mean Time must maintain them till I can obtain some Allowance for their Misfortunes in the Service of their Country, & for the Future send me a Monthly Muster Roll, with the Pay due to each Company, & I doubt not I shall be enabled to pay them duely.
Let me know the Day You march, & I sincerely wish You Health & Happiness, & I remain Sr Your Friend &ca

Robt Dinwiddie


Title: To George Washington from Horatio Sharpe, 20 September 1754
From: Sharpe, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Sir
St. Mary’s County [Md.] 20th Septr 1754

Information having been given me in May last that certain Inhabitants of this County, called Jerrard Jordan, Joseph Broadaway, William Harrison & Robert Harrison, had committed a Riot, & spoke treasonable Words against His Majesty & his Government, which Information was supported & confirmed by several Depositions to the same purports that were transmitted me as from some Soldiers in the Virginia Regiment in whose presence such Words were said to have been uttered, while they were recruiting in this Provine: I thought proper to order the Apprehension of the reported Delinquents who accordingly were produced at the Assizes held in this County Yesterday, but

no Evidence appearing against them by reason I was not timely advised of their Apprehension, they were dismissed by the Court upon recognizing for their Appearance at the next Court: which I will by special Commission order to sit at any time You may think suitable & convenient for the Witnesses to attend to give testimony, if You think upon making particular Enquiry into the Affair that their is a probability by such testimony of proving the Charge & information that has been laid against the above named Rioters. Your speedy Answer to this will much oblige. Sir Your Humble Servt

Horo Sharpe


Title: From George Washington to James Innes, 22 September 1754 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Innes, James

 Letter not found: to James Innes, 22 Sept. 1754. On 27 Sept. 1754 Innes wrote to GW: “Your favour of the 22d from Alexa I recd.”