Title: General Orders, 17 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown April 17th 1777.
Halifax.Trenton.

The Sentence of the General Court Martial whereof Major Harmar is President, against Lt Costagan of the 1st Jersey Battalion; accused of “Behaving in a scandalous, and infamous manner, unbecoming an officer and a Gentleman, for pressing a Horse, the property of John Kidd Esqr. of Bucks-County, (Pennsylvania) appropriating him to his own use, and when required by Col. Biddle D.Q.M. Genl, to deliver up the Horse, neglecting to comply therewith”—whereby the said Lieut: Costagan is found Guilty, and ordered to be discharged from the service, and also, ordered to pay Mr Kidd £20.12.6 Proc: Money, is approved by his Excellency the Commander in Chief—The Money to be retained out of his pay.
The Quarter Masters, and Waggon Masters are to see that every thing within their department, is put into readiness immediately for a Move; the horses to be shod without delay.
The fatigue party to parade in future at 6 o’clock in the morning, with one days provision ready dressed.
Complaint having been made by the Parade Adjutant; that officers commanding detachments, neglect to send their Complement of men for Guard & Fatigue; it is therefore positively ordered, that an Adjutant, or Officer acting as such, march the men of each detachment, to the General Parade, at the usual time of Guard Mounting, (half an hour after 8 o’Clock) who is to answer for any deficiency in his part of the detail. The Officers commanding Corps will be made accountable for any future neglect of this kind.


Title: From George Washington to the Commanding Officer of the German Battalion and the 1st and 12th Pennsylvania Regiments, 17 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Commanding Officer of the German Battalion and the 1st and 12th Pennsylvania Regiments

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 17th April 1777

On looking over the last Return of the German Battalion, there appears to be Fifty three privates Sick and absent—and Seventeen on Furlough.
Almost four months have expired since orders were given for collecting the sick, and yet there are as many absent as if no such had issued. Such disobedience can no longer be pardonned in Officers. I do therefore in the most peremptory manner command that they be without loss of time collected. The privates now on Furlough must be ordered

in and no more given in future. The Officers must continue with their Men, that they may be ready for action on a moments warning. In short as the Campaign must open immediately, I must insist that both Officers & Men discharge their duty with the greatest punctuality. I am Yr most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 17–18 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dr Sir
Head Qrs Morristown April 17[-18]th 1777

Your favor of the 12th Instt was delivered me last night by Mr Trumbull. I am much surprized to hear, that the innoculation of the Troops had been countermanded, or the least Hint suggested of the sort. I have never done or said anything countenancing such a measure, on the Contrary, I have pressed & urged the necessity of it in every instance, and I must request, that not a Moment may be delayed in carrying such of the Troops through the disorder, as have not had it. If it is not done, they will not be fit to act in conjunction with other troops, tho in cases of the greatest emergency. Here they are all infected, nor is the disorder less prevalent through the Country.
I perfectly agree in your reasoning about a Regimental spirit and therefore think, that such detachments of Gansevoorts Regiment as are with you, should be sent to Join their Corps at the Northward. If there are any of Vanschaick’s in the same predicament, they should do the same, the Arms of both must be carried. For the same reason, If there are any Companies of men above, belonging to Van Cortland, H. Livingston, or Dubois’s Regiments they should be ordered down to join their Corps.
The Arms in the hands of the Commissary, capable of repair, should be put in order as soon as possible, and probably, if skilfull Armourers could be employed, many might be made good and extremely serviceable which on first sight of the Commissary might appear totally unfit. It is really difficult to say what has become of our Arms. It is certain

we had many and such as were valuable in their Quality. In Store there are but few—nor are they to be found in the different States, at least the Applications from the Eastward are most pressing upon this Subject. To prevent future Embezzlements, the Congress have resolved, that All belonging to the public, with their Accoutrements, shall be stamped with the words United States & that they shall be seizable wheresoever they are afterwards found. I wish you to procure Stamps, that those of the States in the Regiments with you may receive the impression. I have directed some to be brought from Philadelphia, part of which I will order to be sent you, if you cannot procure ’em elsewhere.
I cannot at this time spare any of the Continental Light Horse raising in Connecticut, they are much wanted here, those we have being greatly reduced by their constant service since they joined me. I wish you could obtain a few belonging to the State. The Carbines &c. which you mention, may be sent to the Commissary of Stores here—they may be wanted, & if they are out of order, they can be forwarded to Philadelphia.
The removal of the Artillery &c. from Fish Kills, considering your weakness and the possibility of the Enemy’s making an attempt to pass up the River & succeeding, I think perfectly right. Such an Event should be guarded against, and I earnestly desire, that you will direct the removal of all the Stores of provision and of other things belonging to the Army from the River, to some more interior part of the Country, where they will be more secure, for whilst they remain upon or contiguous to the Water, they will always be liable to be destroyed by the Enemy or taken off suddenly for their own use. In future, none should ever be deposited in places accessible to their Shipping & Craft—by means of these their movements can be made with such expedition, that they will always be exposed, if they are near the River.
The views of the Enemy and the Schemes they mean to prosecute this Campaign, are not yet certainly unfolded. There is strong reasons to conclude from a variety of combining circumstances that Philadelphia will be the first Object of their attention: However, as the Stratagems of War are many, and notwithstanding appearances, their real designs may be up the North River, it behoves us to be prepared at all points, as well as we possibly can. to this end, I wish you to press my request to Govr Trumbull for hastning on the Two Thousand Militia, and to apply in my name to the Convention of your State for every aid they can give from their Militia, and that to be had as early as possible. These Succours may be of the most salutary and important consequences, and the whole should be immediately posted to guard the passes through the Mountains and at the Fortifications for their defence.

I mean to include too, the Fifteen hundred Men you expect will be raised from draughts—they will be better employed in the Highlands & at the Fortifications for a time, than to be dispersed along the Shores & in West Chester County—This requisition for the Militia, will not be liable to the objections commonly made in such instances, for we may rationally suppose, that in a few days, the Enemy will commence their Operations & their designs will be fully understood. If Philadelphia is their Object, The Militia, except such as the State has thought proper to raise for a longer service, may be permitted to return to their Homes without Injury—If the North River is, All the Continl forces will be drawn together as soon as they can. At present they are too much divided, and if they become more so; we shall not be equal to the smallest resistance in any Quarter—do urge these things—the situation of our Affairs calls loudly for every aid and for every exertion.
Beleiving that Philadelphia would be an Object of the Enemy’s attention, I have long urged the removal of the public Stores from thence, and I am assured, that many of them are gone and the rest held in readiness to be transported on the shortest notice. It would be imprudent in the extreme to subject them to the hazard of a total loss.
I am sorry the prospect of raising Recruits should be so remote as to prevent Mr McDougal from filling the post, I thought him well deserving of; at the same time, I am pleased with your generosity and justice in postponing the interest of your Son to that of the public. I wish something may be cast up in which he may be employed in a suitable manner.
I have inclosed you Copies of some Resolves of Congress, to which I beg your attention, and that you will put the Substance of them, or such parts as you think necessary in Orders. The pay of the Brigade Majors has not been augmented; Congress, I suppose, will do away the inconsistency by advancing it above the Adjutants. The Commissary’s List of Stores lost at Pecks Kill, mentiond by you, was omitted to be inclosed in your Letter.
In the morning of the 13th Instt Lord Cornwallis in person with Majors General Grants & Skinner attempted to surprize our post at Bound Brook and to take off the Troops we had there. Happily his Enterprize was not attended with the Success he wished; however, before our little force could withdraw to the Mountains in their Rear the Enemy advanced and possessed themselves of two or three peices of Feild Artillery which we had there. We lost in prisoners & killed, by the best accounts I have obtained, from thirty five to forty men. The last has been partly compensated for, in a small number of prisoners

taken from them on Monday morning—The Enemy lost the post at Eleven O’Clock the same day, & our people took possession of it again. Fortunely, Our Stores there were trifling and not worth mentioning. It was considered as an out post, and nothing of consequence kept there. I am Dr Sir with great esteem Yr Most Obedt Sert

Go: Washington

P.S. That Intelligence may be more expeditiously transmitted at this Interesting period, Expresses are established from Philadelphia to King’s Ferry—those from here to Kings Ferry & which you will use in cases requiring dispatch are Mr Joseph Butler at Kings Ferry at the House on this side the North River[,] Mr John Butler at Mr Sufferins at the Clove, 16 miles from Kings Ferry[,] Mr Adam Jameson at Captain Mandevils at Pompton plains.

April 18th. Considering the importance of the Highland passes and Fortifications & how easy it will be for the Enemy to change their plan of Operations and run up the River with their Ships after our Troops are drawn from thence, supposing Philadelphia to have been their first Object, I am induced to have All the Troops coming from the Eastern States halted at Pecks Kill till further Orders except the detachmt under Lieut. Colo. Butler from Connecticut, the advanced division of which I expect here to day. In a few days the Enemy’s designs will be known—If they mean to push up the River, those Troops will be there to secure the Forts & passes—If they go to Philadelphia, it will take ’em some time & the Men can be immediately marched after their departure. You will advise me of their arrival, as they come in, every two or three days by safe Opportunities if such Offer, if not by the Expresses I have mentioned. You will hold them in readiness to march on the shortest notice as I may order.
I have sent you a set of Stamps for the Arms. I am Yr Most Obt st

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 17 April 1777
From: McDougall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sir
Peekskill [N.Y.] April 17th 1777

I was honored with the receipt of your favors of the 12th and 13th Instant, containing information against sundry Persons wickedly engaged in the service of the Enemy. You may rest assured no pains will be wanting to secure those miscreants. It’s probable Van Wagoner is secured; a person of his Character, being lately taken with a Number of Recruits for the Enemy. The late resolution of Convention, subjecting those Parricides to Martial Law, will rid the Country of many of them; and the Army of much trouble. Simon Mabee a Subject of this State, who was taken Prisoner with a Warrant from Mr Holland, to enlist Guides and Ax Men, is under Sentence of Death. It is gone to Convention for their approbation, I expect it’s return to Day. Two Privates of the Troops, raised in this State, were Sentenced to death by a respectable General Court Martial, for desertion. There have been so many instances, of that kind in this department, examplary and the severest punishment are become necessary. To put the burden and odium on the Commander in Chief, of affirming every such sentence, is in my Opinion ungenerous; the Officer in each department shou’d take his share in both. For these reasons, I have by virtue of the Power you gave me, approved of the Sentence, which is to be executed to morrow, with the utmost tenderness to the unhappy Prisoners. If these motives of my conduct, do not meet the General’s approbation, I shall be happy to be informed of it. I can with great truth declare, the above Considerations could alone prevailed on me, to have any concern with blood. There are about 140 Men here of Col. Swift and Col. Shepherd’s regiments, some without Arms, others have not had the small Pox. shall the former go on without, and the latter before they are innoculated? The Connecticut Militia will not come up to half the number you required. About 800 of them are now at this Post, and on several duties in this State. Fifty Sail of different Sizes have passed from the Eastward to New York. It is conjectured they have brought the Troops from Rhode Island, but it wants confirmation.
Inclosed you have a deposition, relative to the Enemy assertaining the Breadth of the Deleware, three Miles above Trent Town and the weekly strength of three York Regiments on the 11th Instant.
Lieut. Wells of Captain James Deany’s Company, and Col. Wards regiment has been at Bedford with four Men, ever since the regiment went to Jersey last Autumn, “with the Officers Baggage,” as he says, while two others of the same regiments, were at this Post, in charge of some regimental Baggage. About six weeks ago, he came to me for orders to draw provisions at that Town. I ordered him to put the regimental

Baggage in some secure place, and when that was done, I would give him further direction; I intended to Order him and the Men to Jersey, which I believe he suspected and went off, without doing what I ordered him, or coming for those directions. I have not heard of him since. The regimental Baggage by his carelessness was destroye’d by the Enemy. As the time of Service of that regiment is nearly expired, I judged it my duty, to give you this information, that such Steps may be taken with his pay, or any other you shall Judge necessary, to punish him for so great an abuse, and unsoldier like Conduct. While this Country is bleeding at every Pore, by an ambitious and unprovoked Enemy, her own Sons are Stabing her Vitals. wou’d to God the Army was rid of such disgraceful members of it. I have the Honor to be with great truth and regard Your Excellency’s very humble Servant

Alexr McDougall

P.S. Upon examining the Enemy’s amunition, I found one Swan and two buck Shot, made up with the Ball, at the Bottom of the Ca[r]tridge. Would it not be proper, to order ours to be made up in the same manner? It would expedite the loading with that mixture, and prevent the loss of the Small Shot, by the Carelessness of the Soldiers, which is but too often the case, by their being loose in their Pouches.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel David Mason, 17 April 1777
From: Mason, David
To: Washington, George

Sir
Virginia Dumfries 17th Apl 1777

I take this opportunity of Acquainting your Excellency that I reach’d this place on Tuesday last and by order of Brigadier Genl Weedon have with my Men been Innoculated. The number of Men I have with me is contained in the inclosed return, which is short of what I had hopes of being able to March with when I wrote you last—Having very few Troops from the Northern Counties which in the regulation of the different Quotas of Men were allotted to my Battalion—I am to inform you that from Appearances I have great hopes that most if not all of my Men will soon recover from the Infection so as to be able to proceed on their March.
Having received your Excellencys orders for my Marching immediately to Philadelphia & there to have my Men Innoculated, I should have strictly observed those orders, but on my geting to Fredericksburg Genll Weedon considering the difficulty & danger of Attempting to pass through the Country with such a Number of Troops & the Infection so very general Thought proper to order me to this Station to be Innoculated and informed me that he had wrote your Excellency on the Occasion and assured me that I would not meet with any censure in observing his directions on that head—I am to Acquaint you that beside my own Troops there are at this place several Small detachments of other Regiments and there are many more gone on to Alexandria, where I am told they are full & cannot receive any more at present—By Accounts I have from North Carolina, I expect part of

their Troops are on their March & near this place, having Understood before I left Sussex that they were Rendezvoused at Halifax and prepareing to March to the Northward—My Men are Badly Cloathed Lt Colo. Innis having obtained an order from Congress for Cloth for Three hundred suits & thinking it might Conduce to Promote the Inlisting of Men had the Cloth brought to Virginia to be made up & at a considerable Expence, upon my Applying for the Cloathing I found not a Single Coat or vest and but a few pair of Breeches made & have now the Cloth with me to be made up as soon as Opportunity will permit—I am also to Acquaint you that I have with me about three hundred Muskets & Guns Tho in very indifferent order & Scarcely a Bayonet with them, some of the Muskets with little repair would be very proper, but others I fear would not Answer the purpose for which we shall want them—This is as true a State of my Battalion as I am able to give and have the Honour to be with great regard Your Excellencys Most Obedt Humble servt

David Mason Colo. 15th Virga Regt


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Maxwell, 17 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Maxwell, William

Sir,
Morris Town April 17th 1777

That the Enemy are upon the point of opening the Campaign can scarce admit of a doubt—where, or in what manner, is yet uncertain; it behooves us however to be as well prepard as possible, & keep every thing in such order as to move at an hours warning—one step towards this is, to have the number of our Posts reduced—the Men drawn a little more compactly together—and Scouts to supply the places of Stationary Guards, along the Enemys Lines—By this means we shall have it more in our power to move quick; shall be less liable to surprizes; and can give aid much quicker than in cases where Men upon any alarm, or Movement of the Enemy are to be assembled from several different Posts, at a distance from each other.
I would have you attend particularly to the care of Ogdens, shreves, Martins, and Spencers Regiments; see that the Commanding Officers of them use every possible Means to get them compleated; and that

they have their Men carried through the small pox, by Inoculation, as fast as the Surgeons, under the direction of the Hospital, can possibly accomplish it. cause the Commanding Officers of these Regiments (wch will probably compose your Brigade) to be very regular and careful in their Returns to you, that I may be furnished therewith. See that the other Corps, at present under your immediate Command, comply also with this requisition that I may not be deceived with respect to my Strength—The Inclosed Letters you will please to have delivered. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: W——n


Title: From George Washington to James Mease, 17 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: James, Mease

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 17th Apl 1777

I have your favr of the 12th by Colo. Campbell. All the Cloathing that has come from the Eastward within a few days is forwarded to you unopened, except a sufficient Quantity for Colo. Formans Regt of which they were in immediate want. I have directed the Colo. to have the heavy woolen linings taken out of the Coats and sent down to you, and I think if you have time, you had better have the same done with all, as they will be too warm for summer, and the linings made up into Waistcoats and drawers will be most comfortable to the Troops in the Winter. The Cloathing of the 21st Regt has not come on, it has been appropriated to some of the Connecticut Regs. I could wish Colo. Moylan would put his Regt in any other Uniform than Scarlet, because I am convinced that many Mistakes and perhaps some fatal ones will happen from our Dragoons being cloathed in Red and Blue which is the same with the Queens Dragoons. There now are going on, 1400 Suits of Brown and White and Brown and Buff which are handsome, and good standing Colours, I had rather see Moylans Corps in one of them than in scarlet, for the Reasons I have mentioned. But if the Uniforms of the Officers are made up, I suppose it will be too late to make an Alteration. Colo. Spencers Regt of this State, are now in want of their Cloaths, and I should likewise have stopped for them, had you not in your letter to Mr Young been particular in your Request that none of the present parcel should be detained here. But you must immediately send up three or four hundred suits, all of a kind, if possible, for Spencer. The Remains of the Virginia Regiments, say 1000 Men, are almost naked, and you must either send up a supply for them, or I must stop a sufficiency for them of the next that comes on. Be pleased

to inform your Deputy here, which you incline to do. Do you not think there is some danger in carrying all this clothing to Philada just at this time? would it not be better to remove your Workmen of different kinds to some distance from the City, (Germantown or Newtown) and let them alter and make up there, the Goods would be safe, and the people would not be thrown into confusion upon every Alarm—I dont mean to direct in this Affair; I only hint what seems best to me.
If you have not yet laid the Estimates for the next Years Cloathing before Congress at large, or the secret Committee; I beg you will, in my Name, do it immediately. If timely Steps are not taken, we shall next Spring be all in confusion again, and bring our Army into the field half compleat and of a thousand different Colours as to uniform, which has not only an ill Appearance, but it creates much irregularity; for when a Soldier is convinced that it will be known by his dress, to what Corps he belongs, he is hindered from committing many faults, for fear of detection. If you have applied and have not recd a satisfactory Answer, be pleased to let me know and I will write a letter upon the subject.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters, 17 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Peters, Richard

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 17th April 1777

I am directed by a Resolve of Congress of the 10th Inst. to transmit to the Board of War a list of the Appointments made in Consequence of the powers with which I am invested by Congress, together with a Copy of all Commissions originating from and issued by me.
I have made no appointments out of the Military line, but James Mease Esq: Cloathier Genl with a Salary of 150 dollars ⅌ Month. And Elias Boudinot Esq: Commissary of Prisoners with a Salary of 60 dolls ⅌ Month. I have not been able yet to obtain compleat Returns of Colo. Sheldon’s, Baylors and Moylans Officers of light Horse, or of as many of the 16 additional Battalions as are put into Commission, indeed all the Subalterns, to those that are put into commission, are not yet appointed, but when they are, and the Regiments are drawn together, you shall have exact Returns. I think it would be almost needless to attempt to form a general Return of the Army just at this time, for what with promotions and Resignations, the State of a Regt is scarcely the same a Week together, but when the Army is once fully arranged things will not be in that fluctuating Situation.
I inclose you a List of such of the Colonels of Horse and Foot as I have appointed. I gave the disposal of all Commissions under the Rank of Field Officers to the different Colonels, subject to my approbation

by which means I think these Regiments will be better officered than the others, because, as the Reputation of the Corps depends upon their choice, they will be very circumspect. I also inclose you a list of several Captains to whom I gave instructions to raise Companies in the different States, and when a Sufficient Number are raised, to form a Regt I intend to incorporate them. I am Sir with Respect.

P.S. I also appointed Benj. Flower Esq: Commissary Genl of Military Stores with Rank & pay of Lt. Coll.


Title: To George Washington from Captain William Scott, 17 April 1777
From: Scott, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Boston April 17. 1777

I Was appointed by your Excellency to raise a company of rangers & according to a provision made by the honourable the continental congress, I was impower’d to offer each man so to be inlisted six pounds bounty, a suit of cloaths annually, & 100 acres land should they serve the term of three years, but upon coming to new England where I purposd to raise my company, I find a much larger bounty offer’d to soldiers, some towns giving £56 & some £60 L[awful] m[oney] bounty, your Excellency must immediately see the great disadvantage I labour under, so great that altho I have used the utmost vigilance and taken the greatest pains I see no possibility of compleating my company—I should have waited on your Excellency in person but my being unwell at present prevents it—a good opportunity now by Colo. Lee I thought it my duty to imbrace, I hope your Excellency will contrive some method by which I may stand upon an equal chance with the others

of your recruiting officers. I am with the greatest respect Your Excellen[c]y’s most Obt & most hble St

William Scott


Title: General Orders, 18 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Morristown, April 18th 1777.
Georgia.Samptown.

All the Continental Arms, those in possession of the troops, as well as those in Store, to be marked immediately. Commanding Officers of Corps to see this Order put in execution—they will get the Brand by applying to the Commissary of Military stores.


Title: From George Washington to Owen Biddle, 18 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Biddle, Owen

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 18th April 1777

I have lately recd the two following peices of Intelligence, which I think it my duty to give you, for if such practices are followed without detection our Enemies will be well supplied.
Bowne and Hartshorne, near Shrewsbury in Monmouth County, purchase Continental Money in N. York at a great discount, carry this Money to Philada and there buy Flour &ca under pretence of Shipping it to the Foreign Islands, but send the Vessels to N. Yk. As those persons are well known in Philada they may easily be detected.
The Murrays of New York—some time ago sent a Vessel to Philada navigated by a french Captain and Seamen, who pretended they came from the French Islands, they procured a Cargo of Provisions which they carried to New York.
It would be well for your Custom House Officers to make enquiry

of every Captain upon whom he values himself, and if the Merchant is one, whose Character does not stand quite fair and unsuspected, the strictest scrutiny should be made into the intentions of the Voyage. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General George Clinton, 18 April 1777
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
New Windsor [N.Y.] 18th April 1777

Being from Home when your Excellency’s Letter of the 31st Ultimo was left at my House prevented my Answering it by the Return of the Express & till now I have not had any other Opportunity—Before the Receipt of it I had (in Consequence of Powers given me by the Convention of this State) ordered out about 1200 of the Militia of this & Orange County 500 of them to releive Colo. Pawling at the Post near Sydmans Bridge & do the Duties which had been assigned him as the Time for which his Regt stood engaged was expired—The Remainder to reinforce the Garrison of Fort-Montgomery & carry on the Works necessary for its Defence—I also ordered from Dutchess County 800 & 350 from West Chester to reinforce the Garrisons on the West Side of Hudson’s River and to give Protection to the Inhabitants of the latter County into which (for want of a proper Force) the Enemy make frequent Incursions & take off large droves of Cattle Horses & other Supplies—The Unhappy Affair at Peek’s Kill and Apprehensions entertained by our Convention that the Enemy might surprize & take our Forts in the Highlands induced me to take this Step without waiting to get your Excellency’s Approbation of the Measure. I would fain hope that it will not be disagreable as these Troops (tho if wanted) are to continue in Service till the first of August—yet they may be dismissed at any Time before and great Pains have been taken to draw them out in such a Manner as instead of checking to promote the Recruiting Service and I doubt not but it will be a Mean to compleat our Regiments for the standing Army much sooner than they otherwise woud have been—As yet however not above one half of the above Number

of Militia have marched & I much fear the whole will not easilly be got out if ever so much wanted.
I most sincerely thank your Excellency for the very Polite & kind Manner which you are pleased to mention my Appointment to a Command in the Continental Army At the same Time my Precarious State of Health & want of Military Knowledge woud have rather induced me to have led a more retired Life than that of the Army, had I been consulted on the Occasion & at Liberty of pursuing my own Inclinations; But as early in the present Contest I laid down as a Maxim not to refuse my best (tho poor) Services to my Country in any Way they shoud think proper to employ me, on this Principle I cant refuse the Honor done me by Congress upon the present Appointment and shall be happy if in my best Endeavours to serve my Country in the Military Line I shall at any Time prove so successfull as to merrit your Excellency’s Approbation.
We have some considerable Time since drawn the Chain across the River at Fort-Montgomery, and as the Tide as it is now fix’t has not the least Impression on it and it is greatly strengthened by a Number of Anchors & Cab⟨les I a⟩m in Hopes it will answer some good End—The Obs⟨tructions⟩ in the River near this Place go on well and I have not the least Doubt but they will be effectual when compleated which had the Convention suffered me to have paid my whole Attention to this Business woud have been the Case nearly by this Time, as it is they are in great forwardness & in a few Days will become formidable—The Companies for which I nominated Officers are successfull in recruiting—two of them having already near thirty Men each—I thro Mistake appointed a 1st Lieut. more than I was directed and as he is an Active Person & has inlisted a Number of Men I wish he coud be provided for. I am with the highest Esteem your Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

Geo. Clinton


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 18–19 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Qrs Morristown April 18[-19] 1777.

I have nothing of importance to transmit Congress, no Event in the Military line having happened since my last, except the Surprizing a Small picquet guard of the Enemy on Monday night at Bonam Town & bringing off Thirteen prisoners by One of our parties. An Enterprize of a similar nature was formed against that at Amboy, in which, the party sent to effect it did not succeed so well, though the most advanced of them seized & secured three of their Out Sentries without giving an alarm.
By a Letter from Genl McDougal of Yesterday, I am informed, that he had received accounts of Thirty Six Sail of Transports having left New Port on Friday last with Troops on board. Other reports he had, were, that a number of Ships were coming up the Sound, so that we may reasonably conclude Genl Howe is drawing his forces from the

Eastward. Genl Arnold in a Letter of the 6th mentioned, that from the preparation of Transports & Other circumstances he thought it probable an embarkation was about to take place.
There are grounds to suspect from information received, That some unfair practices have been & are meant to be used in certain Exports from Philadelphia. It is said, that a Vessel navigated by Frenchmen loaded there, belonging to the Murrays of New York, which carried her Cargo to Genl Howe; Also that Hartshorne & Bowne of Monmouth County intend to load One or more for the same purpose under the Idea of sending them to Foreign Markets. I have written to the Board of War for Pensylvania upon the Subject, and doubt not, but these Hints will be properly improved and such frauds guarded against as well as circumstances will admit.
I have inclosed a Copy of an Advertisement published in Gains paper of the 14th which shews that no Artifices are left untried by the Enemy to injure us. Before the appearance of this unparallelled peice, I had heard, that a person was gone from York to Rhode Island with a Quantity of Counterfeit Money.
There is One thing, which I beg leave to mention to Congress, and which I think highly deserving their attention, that is, that Supplies of Hard money or Bills of Exchange to procure it, should if possible be sent to our prisoners in the hands of the Enemy, at least to the Officers, to releive their wants. By Letters, which I have received from them of late, I find they are in great distress and such as ought to be removed if it can be done. No inconvenience will result to the public from such Supplies, if they can be furnished, as proper Stoppages and deductions can be made from their pay.
April 19th. I was honored with your Letter of the 16th between Twelve & One oClock Yesterday, accompanied by Sundry Resolutions. I hope the measures Congress have adopted, will produce the Salutary consequences they had in view—but I fear, that the States, unless they are delicate in exercising the powers they are invested with for filling vacancies in instances of removal from Office, and pay a strict attention to a proper line of Succession, where there are no Capital Objections, will renew much of that confusion & disorder, we have been endeavouring to extricate ourselves from. Nor will this be of small difficulty, if they displace many Officers; For supposing them to have kept the most accurate Lists of their Original appointments, changes have taken place, in several instances, from various causes unknown to them, and of which they cannot be apprized.
I can assure Congress the Appellation given to the Regiments officered by me, was without my consent or privity. As soon as I heard it, I wrote to Several of the Officers in terms of severe reprehension, and

expressly charged them to suppress the distinction—adding that all the Batallions were on the same footing, and all under the General name of Continental.
An Attack upon the Kings Troops at Rhode Island was certainly a desireable Event, could it have been conducted with success, or upon equal terms. It being an Object of great moment, and involving in its issue many important consequences, I am led to beleive the practicability of it, has had much consideration and the measure found to be unadviseable under the circumstances of the Troops collected for the purpose. If the Enemy have not evacuated the Island, I suppose the matter will be further weighed.
I do not find in the Medical Arrangement any mention of Regimental Surgeons Mates or provision made for their payment. Whether Congress mean to dispense with such Officers or not, I can not tell—I have heard that they do—But they appear to me to be absolutely necessary. We are often obliged to divide Regiments and to send a part to a distant post—When this is the case, it is essential, that there should be some person with them to take charge of the Sick or wounded, if such there should be. I have only mentioned this for Many Reasons that might be urged to shew the expediency of such Appointments.
Notwithstanding the many circumstances inducing a beleif, that Philadelphia will be the first Object of the Enemy’s attention, Yet as the Stratagems of War are various & they may be easily changed, especially when they have the entire command of the Water, I cannot but consider, the detention of the Troops at Philadelphia, farther than mentioned in my Letter in Answer to that from the Board of War, as inexpedient and Subject to great inconvenience & injury. In the present divided—separated State of the Army, we are weak at all points and not able to make the least Opposition promising success. Supposing they were collected here, they would be ready to act as Necessity and circumstances might require—If the Enemy pushed for Philadelphia—we should have notice of it and could hang upon their flank and Rear—Nor is it likely they would undertake such an expedition without attempting the destruction or dispersion of the Army first—If they embarkd and should go by Sea, we should have information of it & could be there in time—On the Other hand, should all they have done prove a feint, and they should turn their Views to the North River, we should be in a much better situation to counteract their designs & to check the progress of their Arms in that Quarter. added to this, Several of the Regiments, especially those which came first from Virginia and Pensylvania, are so broken, that it is impossible to do any thing with the parts that are here, and that Spirit which is always derived

from a Corps being full, or as much so, as circumstances of number will admit of, is entirely done away. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Your Most Obedt Sert

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 18–19 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 18[-19]th Apl 1777

I have your favr of the 28th March and 1st of this Month. I have, in my several late letters, wrote to you so fully upon the necessity of forwarding the Troops to Ticonderoga and peekskill, that I need only to refer you to them, and to beg your Attention to the several Matters recommended in them.
 You will be kind enough not only to insist upon, but to see that the Feild Officers do not stay behind their Regiments, it is a most scandalous practice, and Genl Wayne complains of it with great justice. pray let Arms and proper Cloaths be forwarded to those who marched without them.
I am surprized that Monsieur Fanueil never advised his Officers that Congress did not approve of his Scheme for raising a Regiment. They have given him the Rank of Colonel without pay or Rations. You will therefore be pleased to inform the French Gentlemen of this, and let them know, that as Congress have not thought proper to approve of their proposals, it is not in my power to provide for them.
Congress have come to the following Resolve respecting the Chevalier de Borre. Resolved, That the Chevalier P[r]eudhomme de Borre have the Rank and pay of a Brigadier General in the Army of the united States of America from the 1st day of December last, according to compact made between him and the Honble Silas Dean Esqr.
I have wrote to Monsr Borre myself and have desired him to come forward. If the Six Months was advanced to him by way of Gratuity, he must get the matter confirmed by Congress, for I have no power to allow any such thing.
Inclosed you have sundry Resolutions of Congress for the Regulation of the paymaster General’s, Commissary of Musters and Hospital Department, and some amendments to the Articles of War. You will also observe that the pay of Majors of Brigade is augmented to 50 dollars ⅌ Mo. and that of Chaplain to 40 dollars ⅌ Mo. to take place from 12th Instant. I am dear Sir Your most obt Servt

Go: Washington

19th Yours of the 9th is this Moment come to hand. There certainly must be either roguery or gross ignorance in your powder Makers, because the powder made in the other States is esteemed better than that imported from Europe. It is a matter of so much importance, that it should be strictly inquired into. If the Continental Frigates are ready for Sea, they certainly must not wait, but must have a supply from Mr Langdon. But where is the necessity of keeping any more of that quantity in your State at present? If the powder Manufacturers are made to

do their duty, they will soon make up a considerable quantity, and if there should be any appearance of danger, of which I confess I do not at present see the least sign, you may have a supply from the Magazine at Springfeild—The Troops inlisted for three Years are intitled to the Bounty in land, by a Resolve of Congress.
You will perceive by the printed Resolves sent you this day, that the pay of Regimental Surgeons is increased to 12/lawful ⅌ day.
I am unable to supply your wants of Money at present, but will make a representation to Congress, and I would advise Mr Hancock to do the same. He ought to make timely Requisitions to them. Yrs as before

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 18 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 18th April 1777

Just after I had wrote very fully to you this Morning I recd yours of the 17th. By the inclosed Resolutions of Congress, which came to hand this day, and which are additions and Amendments to the former Articles of War, you will find that every Continental General has a right to carry the Sentence of a General Court Martial into execution in the State in which he commands. And I shall esteem it as a favr if every General Officer will exercise his own Judgment, as to the propriety of executing the Sentence, except the Case should be very particular.

None of the Eastern Continental Troops who have not had the Small pox should be suffered to pass peekskill without innoculation, for it is impossible to avoid the infection upon the Road.
By three Deserters who are just come in, we are informed that the 10th 37th 38th & 52d Regs. laying upon Staten Island were ordered, the day before yesterday, to hold themselves in readiness to embark at an hours warning, the place of destination unknown. Their Numbers about 900 non commissioned Officers included. I give you this intelligence, that you may keep a good look out, lest they should be intended to pay you another Visit.
I shall take proper Notice of Lieutenant Wells when Wards Regiment is paid off.
Upon your hint for making up Cartridges, with a mixture of Buck Shot, I immediately ordered the Commissary of Stores in this department to prepare a quantity of that kind, and I think it would be well if you were to do the same.
By a Resolve of Congress which came to my hands since I wrote you this Morning, the Pay of Majors of Brigade is augmented to 50 dollars ⅌ Month, to take place from the 12th Inst. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. The pay of Chaplains is also augmented to 40 dollars ⅌ Mo. from 12th April.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 19 April 1777
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Sir
Albany 19th April 1777.

I had the Honour to receive your Excellency’s Letter of the 5th Instant from Morris Town; and wish I could say, any of The Troops expected to Arrive at Kenderhook, Claverack, or Red Hook, had reached either of those places; when I am acquainted therewith, Your Excellency may be Assured of my strictly fulfilling your Commands. I have directed the Commissary to purchase, and send in the Vessels that carry down the Troops to Fort Montgomery, all the peas that can be spared from this Department; he assures me there are a large Quantity to be sold here, but the possessors insist upon being paid Twelve Shillings York Curry a Bushel for them. Flower, he also tells me, there is an amazing Quantity may be bought upon this and the Mohock River, at Twenty Shillings this Money a hundred; Should that Article be in request to the Southward, Your Orders upon that Head cannot be too soon conveyed to Albany. To my great surprize, I found only Forty Men here fit for Duty upon my Arrival Thursday last; and near Seventy Tories in the Town Goal; and this Morning I was informed by a Message from the Committee, that the principles of the people in all this District are so Corrupted, that there is near one half of them turn’d Tories, and many of [them] have privately engaged to serve the Enemy. To prevent any ill consequences happening to the public Magazines from this abominable disposition of the people, I have, at the request of the Committee, ordered Five Hundred Men, with a proper proportion of Officers, to be sent as soon as possible from Benington; and the Committee have ordered a Body of the Militia to March directly into Town. The Cannon ordered in January from Boston, are now laying upon a Wharf, and in the Main Street of this City; most of the Military Stores likewise ordered from thence, are now here, or upon the Road between the Eastern States, and Albany; the Excuse for

this shameful Management, is, that the Waggoners who were employed to transport these things from Massachusetts, & Connecticut, either by the badness of the Roads, or their own infamous Conduct, were induced to leave their Loads at different Stages by the way; these have again been taken up by other Waggoners, which by shifting from one to another, has occasioned the delay, a delay that may prove most injurious to the public Service in this Department. Waggon Masters I am informed, were sent with the Waggons from Massachusetts, and Connecticut, but as the Waggons, & Cattle, were impress’d, I am not surprized at the disappointment of the hopes I had entertained, of the Artillery, & Military Stores, getting to Tyconderoga before the Snow was off the Ground. I must now entreat, Your Excellency will be pleased to Name to me, the Colonels, who Command the Regiments from the different States destined to serve in this Department, that I may have it in my power to Quicken their Vigilance, in Marching to the General Rendezvous; I should also be glad to know the Names of the General Officers who are to serve to the Northward, & beg the favour Your Excellency will be pleased to Order them to be acquainted with their Destination. To increase the Catalogue of our Wants, and too sensibly to add to our Distresses; there is not One Dollar left in the Military Chest in this Department; nothing so much retards the public Service as the Want of Money, for the Waggoners will not move without being paid; of course, The Provissions, & Stores, are stopped in their Progress to the principal post. Inclosed I send Your Excellency a plan of Colonel Humpton’s, for forming a Corps of Grenadiers, when the whole of the Troops are Arrived at Camp. You may think it worthy your Notice. With great Respect I am, Sir, Your Excellency’s most Obedient Humble Servant

Horatio Gates

P.S. I am Sorry to Acquaint You, that Lieut. Colonel Stewart is just returned from Benington, but found no Troops there.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Richard Gridley, 19 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Gridley, Richard

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town. 19th April 1777

This days post brought me your favour of the 10th Inst. The Articles composing Mr Guilds account (inclosed) having been delivered while General Ward commanded in Boston, it is necessary that his Certificate should be obtained, when that is done, General Heath will give the proper Order for payment, General Knox having the superintendance of these affairs, will employ Mr Guild if he thinks it convenient & necessary. I am Your Most Obt

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Nathaniel Heard, 19 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Heard, Nathaniel

Dear Sir
Morris Town April 19th 1777

I find it necessary to make a new disposition of the forces in the Jerseys—You will please to march all the Militia under your command immediately to this place—upon the Eight[h] Pensylvania Battallion arriving to occupy the Posts you now hold—they have orders for that purpose—Let no time be lost in the execution of this change of disposition. As soon as your troops are ready to march you will please to send me an Express. I am Sir your Obedient Servt

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 19 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Dear sir
Head Quarters Morris Town April 19th 1777

I have wrote to General Herd to march the Militia assembled under his Command to this place—I am about making a new disposition of the Forces and shall give General Herd the necessary Orders upon his arrival here—You will send the 8th Pennsylvania Battalion commanded by Col: Broadhead to occupy the Posts General Herd leaves—You will please to give the Col: all the assistance in your power in posting the Troops to the best advantage, forming the Guards, and establishing the Padroles—I shall order part of several Regiments down to you to supply the place of the 8th Battalion which you will give the necessary Orders to. I am sir your Obedt servt

Go: Washington

P.S. please to send the Letter to Gen: Herd immediately.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 19 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Parsons, Samuel Holden

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 19th Apl 1777.

I am favd with yours of the 8th March, Those of the 4 & 6th likewise came duly to hand. I wish you had sent the Cover of the letter of mine that you suspect had been opened and put under a fresh Cover, as by comparing the direction with the hand writing of the Gentlemen of my family, the matter would have been reduced to a certainty, and the fraud, if any, might perhaps have been traced. I am very suspicious from the Backwardness of Col. Chas Webb, Chandler and Swift to make Returns, that their Regiments fall short of what they have made the public beleive, and I desire you will again call upon them either to make actual Returns or the best they can upon report, assuring them at the same time that they shall answer for such neglect of their duty.
By the inclosed amendments of the Articles of War, you will find that a Continental General, commanding in any of the States, has a right to carry any Sentence of a Court Martial into execution, and I wish it had reached you before you sent off placey, that he might have been punished upon the Spot.
If those Companies of Volunteers that you mention would march to peekskill and serve with the Militia that were ordered, they would be of Service, but they should not by any means be allowed to be considered as any part of the quota of the State, nor can I consent to allow any man to be inlisted to serve to the 1st January only. It would create universal uneasiness and dissatisfaction among the Troops who had inlisted for the War, and would again introduce an opening for short inlistments, which are the foundations of all our Evils.
From several accounts from the eastward, it seems pretty clear that the Troops have left Rhode Island, from which we may certainly infer, that they are drawing their Forces together to move towards Philada or go up the North River. But be their designs what they may, our Force should move southward as fast as possible. I do not at all doubt your past Exertions and I hope you will continue them till your Quota of Men is brought into the Feild by some Means or other.
By some late Regulations, the Pay of Majors of Brigade is augmented to 50 dollars ⅌ Mo. Chaplains to 40 dollars ⅌ Mo. and Regimental Surgeons to two dollars ⅌ day. I hope this will influence Gentlemen of Merit, Abilities and Skill (especially in Physic) to step forth. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from the Pennsylvania Board of War, 19–21 April 1777
From: Pennsylvania Board of War
To: Washington, George

Sir
Pennsylvania War OfficePhiladelphia April 19th[-21] 1777

In the course of this week we have been very fortunate in detecting the stratagems of a number of secret enemies, and of intercepting a letter intended to convey intelligence to the enemy of the present state of our affairs. We have apprehended a Woman, who, we are informed has been three times to Brunswick, and has brought several letters from that place to people in this City. We have great hopes of finding the persons who carry on this correspondence, and that we shall disconcert their measures.
One of the Conspirators, who lately belong’d to the Light Horse, viz. Joseph Fox Farrier, has made some confession, and given in the names of several of his Confederates, most of whom are now in confinement, amongst them is one Smithers an Engraver, who is accused of furnishing a Plan of our Fortifications down the River, and one Richard Whiston Yorke, not long since a Post Rider, and has lately been at Head Quarters, and all through your Excellencys’ Lines, and was at Mr Hugh Hughes’ at Greenwich Iron Works in the state of New Jersey. Yorke informed Fox, that this Mr Hughes either has, or would have a Colonels’ Commission under General Howe, that he has engaged several hundred Men, that when the enemys’ motions induce your Excellency to move from Morris Town, they are intended to make some diversion in order to embarrass our Army. Fox in his evidence was confronted with Yorke—it was the general opinion of those who were present during the examination that Fox was candid and consistent in his evidence—Yorke was in some degree prevaricating and denied the whole charge against him—It was the opinion of the Board that your Excellency ought to be informed of this intelligence respecting Mr Hugh Hughes, that you might take such Measures as your better judgment shall direct—As Yorke denies that he ever gave such information to Fox, and Fox as firmly persists in his evidence respecting Mr Hughes, that it becomes a delicate point for us to decide upon, as Mr Hughes’ Political Character and connections in New-Jersey are unknown to us—should we obtain any further evidence against him, we

shall immediately communicate it to your Excellency. We find that Women are allow’d to pass from Brunswick to this City thro’ the several Posts, where our Army is stationed, and have no doubt they have often been employ’d to convey intelligence to the enemy, and it is more than probable will still be employ’d in that way. We take the liberty of hinting this to your Excellency, that you may make such use of it as you shall think proper.
We also beg leave to mention, that in a letter wrote about ten days since to Fox from one Sheppard (then at Brunswick) and formerly mention’d by us to your Excellency, he undertakes to inform him of the designs of the enemy respecting the invasion of this State—he says that a body of troops are intended to march from the Light House at Sandy Hook, as soon as they begin to move at Brunswick, the former intended for the attack of the Post at Billingsport—these are to be joined by a body of men from their ships—whether any stress is to be laid on such vague intelligence we will not venture to determine—we however think it our duty to inform your Excellency of whatever comes to our knowledge respecting the designs of the enemy, submitting the probability of their endeavouring to distract us by the variety of their attacks to your better judgment.
April 21st. since writing the foregoing several more of the enemy’s Vessels have come into our Bay, that there are now nine ships & several Tenders, all of which lay below Bombo-Hook. They have destroy’d one Merchantman that could not get into Morris’ River, the draught of water over the Bar not being sufficient—this is the only damage they have yet done. By order of the Board I have the Honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant

Owen Biddle Chairman

P.S. The mischievous practices of the Murrays of New York & Hartshorne and Bowne of Shrewsberry, is what we had some reason to suspect but never before had it in our power to detect them. John Murray lately left this City, we shall use our endeavours to apprehend him and bring him to justice—Bowne & Hartshorne reside at Shrewsberry if they could be apprehended by orders of your Excellency, perhaps it might deter others from such Practices in future—we shall give orders to the Naval Officer to scrutinize the destination of all Vessels agreeable to your Excellency’s recommendation.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Elisha Sheldon, 19 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

Sir,
Headquarters. Morris Town. 19th April 1777

Your favour of the 13th Inst. came safe to hand yesterday by Lt Beldin—I shall be sorry to hear that Your disappointment in receiving Money from the Connecticut Treasury has retarded you; That no delay may arise from the want of Money, I have given an Order in your favour for the sum required, Fifteen thousand Dollars, Your Lieutt will receive it here—I hope it is not necessary to recommend to you the utmost Oeconomy; with it, We shall incur a very heavy Expense in fitting a single Regiment for the Field, but without the strictest, it will be enormous. You can’t be more anxious to take the Field, than I shall be glad to see you at the head of a complete Regiment. I am Sir Yr Most Obd. Ser.

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Smith, 19 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, Richard

Sir,
Morris Town April 19th 1777

Your Letter of the 30th Ulto came to my hands by yesterdays Post in an hour after which, an oppertunity (which I embraced) offered of sending the several Inclosures, therein containd, to the Enemy’s Lines (under cover to Lord Cornwallis, Commanding at Brunswick).
Any Letters, which you may have occasion to send, through this Channel, to Sir R. Eden shall be carefully forwarded, by Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Francis Wade, 19 April 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Wade, Francis

Letter not found: to Francis Wade, 19 April 1777. Wade wrote GW on an unspecified date in May: “Your favr of 19th Ult. was several days on the way before it Came to my hands.”


Title: General Orders, 20 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown April 20th 1777.
GreeneKnox.

The detachments from the 3rd 4th 10th & 11th Pennsylv: Regiments, now at this place, as also that of Hazen’s, are to hold themselves in readiness to march, at an hours warning, with their Camp equipage and baggage—If any of the men belonging to those Corps are sick, and unable to march, proper persons must be left to take care of them, who are to see that they join the above detachments respectively, so soon as they are able.
Lieut. Col. Butler’s detachment of Connecticut Troops, are also to hold themselves in readiness to march at an hours warning.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General George Clinton, 20 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town April 20th 1777

Your favour of the 18th instant has just now come to hand.
Two days ago, I wrote to general McDougall urging it upon him to apply to the Convention of your state in my name to call out the Militia,

in order to have as respectable a force as possible, in the quarter where you are to act according to contingencies. I am glad to find that the powers vested in you, have enabled you to anticipate my wishes; and such is the situation of affairs, that your greatest exertions are required to bring them out in as great number, and as expeditiously as possible. Though there are many strong appearances that induce me to believe the enemy will open the Campaign with an attempt upon Philadelphia; yet it is impossible to ascertain their intentions with absolute certainty. So far as their preparations indicate the design I suppose them to have in view; the whole may be an artifice to divert our attention from the real object they may aim at. To be found unprepared, at the place where they should direct their operations, in earnest, would insure them success, and be unavoidably attended with many fatal consequences. On this account and as there is little room to doubt, if they should not move towards Philadelphia, they will up the North River, we cannot take too much pains to be upon a proper footing to meet this event, so far as it can be done consistent with that attention which is due to the greater probability of their attempting Philadelphia; until they shall have made such movements as will give a determinate complexion to their designs. To strengthen ourselves in one quarter and neglect another would afford the enemy a powerful temptation to alter their views, and bend their force against that part where we are weakest and most defenceless.
Let me remind you in bringing out the Militia, to pay a strict regard to the inclosed resolve of Congress. Great abuses in this respect must have come under your observation as well as mine.
I am happy to find that notwithstanding the precarious state of your health, you have waved all opposite considerations to accept the call of your country, and become permanently useful in the military line. The diffident terms in which you mention yourself do not lessen the expectations I have formed of your acting in such a manner as will be productive of honor to yourself and utility to the States.
It gives me pleasure to hear that the chain across the river promises to answer the end; and that the other obstructions are in a fair way. It is of the utmost importance that the greatest diligence should be used to complete and render them effectual. The experiments we have heretofore made give great reason to doubt the efficacy of attempts of this nature; and prove that too much pains cannot be taken to give any hope of success.
The supernumerary officer you mention may proceed in recruiting as many men as he can. He shall be provided for in some corps. I am Sir with great esteem Your most obedient servt

G. W——


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 20 April 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philada April 20th 1777.

Your Favour of the 18th continued to the 19th I was this Day honored with at two O’Clock, and shall lay the same before Congress tomorrow Morning.
The enclosed Resolves are all that have passed in Congress since my last, which are either necessary for your Information, or the Direction of your Conduct. I beg Leave to refer your Attention to them, & with sincere and ardent Wishes for your Health, Happiness, and Prosperity, have the Honour to be, Sir your most obed: & very hble Servt.

Should Mr Commissary Trumbull be at Head Quarters, I am to request you will order him to Repair to Congress at Philada.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Charles Harrison, 20 April 1777
From: Harrison, Charles
To: Washington, George

Sir
Virga York Town April 20th 1777.

It has been very industriously propagated by some Ill-designing Persons, that the Artillery pay was reduced; which has occationed a deal of uneasiness in a measure throughout the Corps; (Commissioned Officers excluded.) On a representation of the matter to Brigadier General Lewis, he concurred with me in Opinion that it was highly necessary to dispatch an Express to your Excellency to know your establishment.

I must by no means omit informing you there was one of the finest Companies I ever saw, inlisted for the use of this State, taken into Continental Service, by General Lee, and continued to receive pay agreable to the establishment of this State, till the last pay Day: which, as the most ready method to Dicipline the whole Battalion, have carefully distributed amongst the nine new raised. Should you think proper to establish their former pay, I flatter myself, it will in the course of a few Weeks (should the welcome summon arrive) be in my power to March to the assistance of my General at the Head of a fine Body of Men.
As a majority of us, are raw, and unacquainted with our duty, we most earnestly Wish to be removed to some place of improvement. To obviate a grand difficulty, I propose having my Men innoculated by Companies immediately, & hope it will meet with your approbation.
I returned a few Weeks past from Colo. Zanes’ Furnace, and from my little knowledge of mettle, think his equal to Brass for Ordnance; could Wish your approbation to make an experiment.
Inclosed you will receive a return of the State of my Battalion; & also the established pay of the Company of Artillery raised for the use of this State. Must now conclude with Wishing you success in all your undertakings, & Wish you also, most sincerely, a long series of Health. I beg leave to subscribe myself, Your Excellencys mo: obt hble Servt

Charles Harrison


Title: From George Washington to Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 20 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 20th April 1777

I have yours with the Return of your Division. I observe that the Return of the two independent Companies is much smaller than the last and the deficiency not accounted for. I therefore desire the Captains may be called upon to know what is become of their Men. I also observe that there are eight Men of the Corps under Chambers absent

on furlough, I desire that they may be ordered in as well as those from the other Corps and I beg that no more be granted on any terms whatever, just at this time. I have ordered up the Brigade of Jersey Militia under the Command of Genl Heard to this place, and I desire that what Jersey Militia are with you may likewise come up, I shall instantly more than replace them, with the several Detatchments of New England, and pennsylvania Regulars that are now here.
I have recd information that the Enemy have brought over some of their Boats to Brunswic and that they are fixing them upon Carriages, pray endeavour to get a person into the Town to know the truth of this, and if it [is] so, how soon they move. I am Dear Sir Yrs

Go: Washington

P.S. If you think sending off the Militia from Bound Brook before the detatchment I intend to send down arrives will weaken you too much, you may keep them till the detatchment does arrive, and then send them off quietly—Send the inclosed to Genl Heard.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benjamin Lincoln, 20 April 1777
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Bound brook [N.J.] Apl 20th 1777

I am this morning, honoured with Your Excellencies favour of yesterdays date, On General Heard leaving his present post Colo. Broadhead will possess it every assistance in my power will be afforded him in placing the Guards Patrols &c.—our mutual safety depend on our acting jointly—I had information last night that the enemy were imitating our dress in order to deceive & surprize us we shall endeavour to evade their design.
It is said by the inhabitance who live near the enemies lines that they intend very soon to move toward Head Qrs morristown. I am with Great esteem & regard Your Excellenci[e]s most Obedient & hm. serv.

B.L.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Robert Magaw, 20 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Magaw, Robert

Sir
Morristown April 20th 1777.

I received your Letter of the 6th Instt by Ensign Fernandez. You may be assured, every thing in my power will be done to make our Officers and privates who are in captivity, as comfortable, as their situation will admit: their case has been represented to Congress, and I trust, a remittance will be made in a few days for their use. I had not been inattentive to them before, but it was difficult to procure such supplies of Money as would be current where you are, as were wished. This Obstacle, I hope, will no longer remain. added to this, there were reasons to beleive, that the situation of the Officers was more agreable, than I find it to be, from some advances said to have been made them. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servant

G. W—g—n


Title: From George Washington to Major General Adam Stephen, 20 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Stephen, Adam

D. Sir
Morris Town 20th April 1777

The horseman delivered your favour of this date—You will be pleased to order Lieut. Bradford under Arrest, that he may answer the Charge of the Court of Inquiry immediately—Capt. Russell must be called upon to account for his long Absence from his Regimt as well as for having inlisted his Men but for a year—I lament Capt. Conway’s loss; but tho’ my Indignation at such ungenerous Conduct of the Enemy might at first prompt me to Retaliation, yet Humanity & Policy forbid the measure—Experience proves that their wanton Cruelty injures rather than benefits their Cause; That, with our Forbearance, justly secures to Us the Attachment of all good Men—I can not therefore consent to your proposition being carried any farther.
I am about to make a new disposition of the Troops, & have for a beginning ordered the Militia under Genl Heard at & about Millstone to move up directly—They are to guard the interiour parts of the Country from this place, to Pompton & cover the neighbourhood of Hackinsac—At which posts they will be in a few days—The Continentl Troops here will move to the Lines to supply their places—Genl Maxwell returns about 100 Militia under Majr Potter—these you may move off in such a manner as to cooperate with any design you may form upon Hoebuck at a future day. I am &c.

G. W——n


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 21 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Morristown April 21st 1777

I was this morning honored with your favor of the 20th inclosing Sundry proceedings of Congress.
The removal of provisions &c. from the Communication between Brunswick and Trentown, has been pretty well effected already. It was an Object early attended to, and what I recommended to the Assembly of this State, as deserving their interposition and aid; but finding it had not their immediate consideration, and that they seemed to decline interfering in the matter, I directed the Quarter Masters & Commissaries to purchase their first Supplies of those necessaries from such places, as appeared to be most exposed to the Enemy’s incursions, and through which, it is most probable, they will take their Route towards the Delaware, in case an Enterprize that way should be in contemplation. I have transmitted Copies of the Resolve upon this Subject to Genl Putnam & Colo. Foreman, the latter of whom is in Monmouth County, with orders to execute the same agreable to the directions therein prescribed, where it may be necessary on the Road leading from South Amboy across the Country.
I have nothing of importance to communicate to Congress; The advices they will receive to day which passed through this Town Yesterday, will tell them, that the Enemy remained at Rhode Island on the 15th Inst., notwithstanding the Accounts we had received of their embarkation before. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 21 April 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston April 21st 1777

I have received the honor of yours of the 10th.
In my last I mention’d to your Excellency having sent to Portsmouth, to forward 3,000 Arms to Springfield—Major Barber the Commissary of Artillery Stores, whom I sent for the purpose informs me that upon his Arrival there—the Honble Mr Langdon, the Continental Agent informed him that Three Thousand Arms had been just sent on to Connecticut, but that he would assist him in forwarding the other to Springfield with the utmost dispatch—That whilst they were preparing Teams Mr Langdon received an Express from Congress, to deliver to the Order of the State of Massachusetts Bay 5,000 Arms, & 15 Tons of powder, & the Remainder to the Order of the Board of War—That he supposed the Three Thousand sent on to Connecticut, were those mention’d by General Knox & Col. Webb, & that he must wait further Orders as to the delivery of Arms or powder—Mr Langdon appeared very much disposed to do every thing in his power, but was embarrassed

by this Order from Philadelphia—Of the Arms 5,000 were to be deliver’d to Massachusetts, 3,000 to Connecticut—And Mr Langdon writes he had deliver’d about 2,100 to New Hampshire—The Remainder are still there—I submit it to your Excellency whether it be not absolutely necessary, that it be fully determined, & also known under whose direction all military stores are to be considered—General Knox has directed Major Barber upon the Arrival of any Vessel with Military Stores belonging to the Continent, to repair to the place, take the Invoice, & deposit them safely—The Order which Mr Langdon has received, seems to imply that they are to remain, in the hands of the Agent, subject to the Orders of the Board of War—I wish only to be rightly informed, & shall cheerfully do my duty.
I am making Enquiry what quantity of powder is due to this State—And the state Commissary is preparing the Return which shall be transmitted—but Congress have ordered the 15 Tons to be delivered.
General Patterson had gone for Ticonderoga, before I received your Excellency’s Orders to notify the Brigadiers respecting their Brigade Majors—I have wrote to the other Two—In a former Letter I mention’d to your Excellency, the names of the Colonels of the 15 Regts & the posts to which they were destined—Neither Council or Committee who commission’d them, know their Seniority—neither are the Regts yet numbered.
The friends of one William Eckart who I am informed is confined by General SinClair, on Suspicion that he is a Spy, have begged for his Release—I have taken the Liberty to enclose a Certificate sent me by Messrs Pierpont & Davis, one of whom is a Member of Assembly, the other a Justice of the Peace—And staunch Americans, & well known to General Lincoln.
Yesterday a large French Ship arrived here from Nantz, with a valuable Cargo—on private Account—Inclosed is the Invoice of some of the Articles, which I had from the Captain—On the Banks of Newfoundland he passed 20 Sail of English Ships at one O’Clock in the morning laying to which way bound he could not tell, the Wind at East, rather thinks they were bound home, or they would have improved the Wind. I have the Honor to be your Excellencys most Obt Hbble Servt

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Jedediah Huntington, 21 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Jedediah

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 21st April 1777

I have yours of the 15th instant. If filling up your Regt can be accomplished any thing the sooner by your remaining in Connecticut, a while longer, I have no objection, but you must send one of your Feild Officers forward to Peekskill to receive and form your small detatchments as they come up.
I hope the late Measures taken by your Govr and Council to compleat your quota will prove effectual. I am Sir &ca.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Henry Lee, 21 April 1777 [letter not found]
From: Lee, Richard Henry
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Richard Henry Lee, 21 April 1777. GW wrote in his letter to Lee of 24–26 April: “your favour of the 21st is come to hand.”


Title: From George Washington to Major General Philip Schuyler, 21 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip

Dear Sir,
Head Quarters Morris Town 21st April 1777.

I am favored with Yours of the 16th. I refer You to a Letter which I wrote Yesterday to Congress upon the Expediency of forwarding the Troops directly on, to join the Army here. But as it may take some Time to collect and fit them out properly at Bristol, I desire that I may have exact Returns from Time to Time, from the Commanding Officer there of the Corps to which the Detachments belong, that I may order those to come on first, whose Regiments, or the greater parts of them, are already here. I beg You will exert yourself to hurry the Troops out of Philadelphia to which both Officers & Men seem too much Attached. I am Dr Sir Your Most Obed. Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Joseph Spencer, 21 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Spencer, Joseph

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 21st Apl 1777

I have yours of the 14th Instant. When I wrote to Genl Varnum expressing my surprise that my Orders for innoculation had not been sooner carried into execution, I was not acquainted with the Circumstances that necessarily retarded it.
I do not apprehend that there is any immediate danger from the Enemy at Newport, their sending away their Vessels is a plain indication that they mean either to remain where they are, in hopes of creating a diversion, and keeping our force from collecting here to oppose their main Army, or that they are in some distant expectation of a reinforcement from Europe. If any Reinforcements are to come out, it will probably be very late before they arrive, as our Agents write us that the appearance of Affairs in Europe is such that Great Britain will hardly send any more force abroad, before she is assured of the pacific intentions of her Neighbours. And of this I fancy she has little hope.
The Enemy, unprovided with Horses and Carriages or any means of moving by land, cannot go off the Island and penetrate the Country, and I should imagine that it would not require any great Number properly stationed to prevent their ravaging the Coast. I am &ca.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Joseph Ward, 21 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Ward, Joseph

Sir,
Morris Town April 21st 1777

I have looked over the Resolutions of Congress relative to the appointments, and Duties of your Department; and find myself at a loss, in the present unassembled State of the Army, to prescribe (as you desire) any immediate rule for the government of your Conduct.
At this time, few of the Continental Troops have Assembled, and those which are, we find in so disjointed, and broken a state, as to render a Muster of them difficult, uncertain, and of little avail. Add to this, I cannot pretend to say, that, I clearly understand the Intention, and views of Congress in these appointments; and wish you had satisfied yourself whether, the four Deputy Muster Masters Genl were designed for different districts, or different Armys; and whether, by a grand division is meant a Major Generals Command; which by the Plan I laid (formerly) before Congress was to consist of three Brigades of four Regiments each composing in the whole as many, I conceive, as the Circumstances of the Army will admit of being Muster’d by any one Officer in the course of a Month.
If it be the Intention of Congress, that each district should have a deputy Muster Master Genl, the sooner the allotment is made, the better, that the duty may be begun so soon as circumstances will admit of it. but for my own part, I should have thought, that a D.M: Master Genl to each seperate Army, would have been sufficient, with the aid of those of the different divisions. By allotting them to districts, it may happen, that some of these Appointments may become mere Sinecures, if there should be no (or but a small) part of, the Army in that Quarter.
Upon the whole, you will have full time to obtain a thorough knowledge of the views of Congress upon these points which I advise you to

learn, & when known every assistance in my power shall be given to carry them into execution. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt Sert

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 22 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, Morristown April 22nd 1777.
Armstrong.St Clair.

The detachments of the 3rd 4th and 10th Pennsylvania Regiments, are to form one Detachment, and be under the Command of Major Harmar ’till their respective regiments arrive.
This detachment thus formed are to march for Boundbrook, by 6 o’clock to morrow morning, as is also the Eastern Detachment, under the Command of Col. Zebulon Butler—the whole to receive their orders from Major Genl Lincoln, when they arrive there.
The detachment of the 11th Pennsylva Regt to march at the same time for Samtown, and join the other part of their regiment at that place, under the Command of Major Mentzges.
Major Lamar is to join his regiment, and use his utmost endeavours to have it completed to the establishment.
The whole of the above detachments to appear on the Grand Parade, at 6 O’Clock to morrow morning, and those ordered to Boundbrook to march off together.
The General Court Martial whereof Major Harmar was President is dissolved.


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 22 April 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston April 22nd 1777

I have this moment received Information from the Council that 25 Cases of Arms, are arrived from Martinico, consigned to the Council

but belonging to the United States—The Council have directed the Master to deliver them to my Order—I shall immediately deposit them, and wait your Excellency’s Orders.
A Paragraph in the Letter from the Gentleman at Martinico, who Shiped the Arms, is as follows—
“Inclosed you will please to find Bill of Lading for 25 Cases of Muskets, which is part of a large Supply of those Articles, lately arrived here on Account of the United States, and which will be forwarded to the Continent, as oppertunities of Armed Vessels may offer.”
I have this moment given Mr Samuel Pitts an Order on the Deputy Paymaster General for 466⅔ Dollars equal to 100 Guineas for the Horse mentioned by your Excellency in a former Letter. Mr Pitts informs me that the Horse is equal perhaps to any in America. I have the Honor to be very respectfully your Excellencys Humble Servt

W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 22 April 1777
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

Sir
Danbury [Conn.] 22d Apl 1777

The Detachments marchd from the several Regiments in this State are less than I expected owing to a Variety of unforeseen Accidents—435 Non Com. Officers & Soldiers, with a Suitable Number of Officers to command them have marchd to Head Quarters & Peekskill, I expect another Detachment will be ready this Week—every possible Method to forward the Levies & Promote recruiting shall be attended to by me.
Inclosd is a Sentence of a Court Martial against One Robert Thompson—He appears to be an artful intriguing Person, & may perhaps be made a very Useful Person to detect & discover the Machinations of

our internal Enemies, if this should be tho’t of more Importance than the Good which may be derivd from his Death.
In the Course of this Inquiry it appears to be the General Expectation of the Tories, that the Enemy will soon land on the Coast about 20 Miles from this Place & attempt to secure or destroy the Magazine of Provisions &c. here—Of late considerable Bodies of disaffected Persons have collected in this Neighbourhood & it seems their Intention [is] to Join the Enemy on their landing—As the Stores here are of great Importance I think it highly necessary a strong Guard should be kept here—however as the Necessity for Men is so great at Camp I shall forward them On to Peekkill Unless I should receive Orders to Leave a Guard at this Place.
I have heard Nothing from your Excellency since the 3d of April; I should be glad to receive your Excellency’s Directions about clothing the Troops raisd to the first of Jany & about their receiving the small Pox. I am yr Excellency’s Obedt hbl. Servt

Saml H. Parsons


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 22 April 1777
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia April 22d 1777.

I am this Moment honored with your Excellency’s Favor of Yesterday’s Date.
Your Excellency’s Letter of the 20th to Congress, was Yesterday, as I am informed, read and referred to the Board of War, I shall apply for a Copy of it, and try to execute whatever you may have wished should be done.
I have with some Difficulty cleared this City of the Troops and got them all at Bristol except about sixty, who arrived last Night and who will proceed as soon as they are cloathed.
On Saturday I sent one of my Aids de Camp to procure a Return, which was very imperfectly made, copy whereof your Excellency has inclosed—I hope for a more perfect one to Day, having sent one of the Light Horse Yesterday with a Letter to the commanding officer, for that purpose, to whom I shall immediately write to make you the most exact Returns.

The Fortifications at Fort Island and Red Bank are going on as expeditiously as can be expected, with only four hundred and fifty Men of the provincials of this State. I am Dr Sir with great Respect Your Excellency’s most obedient humble Servant

Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from Major General Adam Stephen, 22 April 1777
From: Stephen, Adam
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Newark April 22d 1777

By a person to be depended on Who left New york yesterday—a Brigade consisting of the 15th 17th not exceeding 700 men & he believes the 36th & 4th embarked on the 20th at Night & he Supposes Saild up the N. River yesterday Morng to destroy Genl McDougal. The rest of the Advices not So important, & not yet digested I refer at present, & am wt. great Respect Sr your most Obt

Adam Stephen


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General George Clinton, 23 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 23d April 1777

By a person sent into Brunswic I am informed that “Genl Skinners Force consists of about 1000 to be joined by some regular Troops and to proceed from Bergen thro’ Sussex and the back parts of the Jerseys when the Troops march for Philada.”
I think this Move so probable, as it will give them access to a part of the Country most notoriously disaffectd, that I desire you will post a Body of Militia of the State of New York, on this Side of the North River, in such place as you shall think most safe to prevent them from being surprized, and at the same time proper to intercept Skinner’s Corps if they should attempt the above mentioned Rout.
Genl Heard with about two hundred Jersey Militia marched this day to take post at Pompton and extend himself towards Hackinsack—Colo. Dey will also have some small parties of his Regiment in that quarter; If the Enemy should move, they by being called upon, may afford some Assistance.
I have communicated the above to Genl Mcdougal and also another peice of advice “that the Enemy embarked a Brigade of about 700 Men the Night of the 20th and that it was imagined they intended to go up the North River.”
Yours was delivered to me by Mr Gordon. I wish it was in my power to serve him just now, but the small Success of the Officers who are already recruiting disheartens me from giving any more Commissions at present.


Title: To George Washington from Capt. Caleb Gibbs, 23 April 1777 [letter not found]
From: Gibbs, Caleb
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Capt. Caleb Gibbs, c.23 April 1777. GW wrote Gibbs on 3 May: “Mr Harrison having lost, or mislaid your Letter from Newtown, I have no Acct of what you did, or meant to do, respecting our Baggage.”


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 23 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Quarters Morris Town 23d April 1777

I have the honor to transmit you the inclosed pieces of intelligence, which I received this day from Genl Stephens, who, by my desire, employed persons to go into New York and Brunswick. I do not put intire confidence in the whole, but the principal reason of sending the intelligence forward is that proper measures may be fallen upon to find out and apprehend Thomas Long, mentioned in General Stephen’s letter of this date.
If the enemy should move, I have taken steps to make as good an opposition as my small force is capable of. I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedient servt

Go: Washington


Title: Orders to Brigadier General Nathaniel Heard, 23 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Heard, Nathaniel

Sir
[Morristown, 23 April 1777]

I would have you leave at this place (out of the Militia under your Command) One hundred Men, or as near that number as have had the Small Pox (Officered agreeably to the resolutions of Congress).
You are also to send a Subaltern & twenty five Men to Succasony to guard the Magazines and Stores at that place—agreeably to Orders which the Officer is to receive from the Assistant Quarter Master General.
The residue of the Militia you are to March to Pompton from whence you are to detach parties towards Hackensack &ca to cover the Inhabitants in that Quarter and quiet the fears of the People as much as possible.
You will use your utmost deligence to compleat the Works begun at Pompton by Captn O’Hara, who upon your arrival at that place is to repair hither with the detachment under his Commd. Given at Head Quarters at Morristown this 23d day of April 1777.

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 23 April 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston April 23rd 1777

I most Heartily Congratulate Your Excellency on the Safe arrival of the ship Amphitrite, at Portsmouth from L’Orient in France, with a

most Vallueable Cargo for the United States Manifest of which will be Handed to you by mr Champney the Express.
I am Pushing off the Troops with all Possible dispatch to the Places of Destination, A Second Detachment from Colo. Cranes Battalion of artillery march to morrow morning to Joyn your Excellency, (about 60 fine fellows).
We Swarm with French Officers at this Place, Two arrived in the Ship on Sunday at this Place They are much Superior to any that I have as yet Seen, One is an Engineer The other a Captain of Cavalry, They are Gentlemen of Education, Sense and Genius, The Captain has with him Two Treatises on the Discipline and management of the Horse, written by himself, and much Approved by all the Generals in the French Service, He has Letters to Congress, to your Excellency, and to Some Private Gentlemen from Dr Franklin & Mr Dean, who have wrote to have the officers forwarded wherever they may arrive, which will be done as Soon as Possible.
I think the Cannon & Stores lately arrived should be Immediately moved forward to Some place more Centerical to the Seat of war than the State of New Hampshire.
Two Frigates are Cruzing in our Bay Ours are talking of Puting to Sea. I have the Honor to be your Excellencys most Hbble Servt

W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Captain John Hunter, 23 April 1777
From: Hunter, John
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency
Philadelphia 23 April 1777

Agreable to the Instructions I received from your Excellency on the 10th Inst., I proceeded to this place, where I have been indefatigable, in my endeavours to raise my Company: The muster Roll I here with send you, will shew what success I have had, in recruiting—The four hundred Dollers I received from your Excellency, I have distributed among my subalterns who are now in the Country. what success they have met with, I have not yet heard, but have the greatest Reason to beleive, I will be able to bring my Company into the field, as soon as any officer of the same date as my self. I have applied to the Board of war for a further supply of Money, but they refuse me with out an

order from your Exellency. I therefore take the Liberty of informing you of my situation, and requesting such further supplies, as your Excellency may think Expedient. If your Excellency would be pleased to Honour me with my Company being Par[t]isans, I flatter my self, that I would gain some degree of Honour to my self, and be of some service in suporting the Ammerican cause which I have so sincerely at Heart. I am with due respect your Excellencys most obliged & very humble Servt

John Hunter


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Alexander McDougall, 23 April 1777
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

Dear Sir,
Head quarters, Morris Town. 23d April 1777.

The following are Extracts of Letters which I have just received from Genl Stephen, and are taken from the information of persons sent into New York and Bruswic.

New Ark 22d April 1777.
 By a person to be depended upon, who left New York Yesterday—A Brigade consisting of the 15th & 17th (not exceeding 700 Men) and he believes the 36th & 4th embarked the 20th at night, and he supposes sailed up the North River yesterday Morning to destroy Genl McDougall.
Chatham 23d April 1777.
 Genl Skinners’ force consists of about 1,000—to be joined by some Regular Troops and to proceed from Bergen thro’ Sussex, and the back parts of the Jerseys when the Troops march for Philadelphia.

If the Transports proceeded up the River at the time above mentioned, You will hear of them before this reaches you—It may indeed be false, but you will be upon your guard.

I think the move thro’ Sussex, where there are a vast many disaffected persons, so probable, that I have directed Genl Geo. Clinton to post a body of York Militia on this side the North River in some convenient situation to intercept them if they attempt to make any such move.
As I imagine you will soon be considerably reinforced that nothing but a surprise can affect you, I have only to recommend your taking every precaution to render such an Attempt fruitless. I am Dear Sir, Yr most Obdt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Be pleased to forward the enclosed to Genl G. Clinton.