Title: To George Washington from Mordecai Gist, 24 September 1781
From: Gist, Mordecai
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Baltimore 24th Septr 1781

                  The enclosed papers were taken in a Dispatch Boat from Lord Cornwallis by the Brig. Sea Nymph of Phila. the 10th Inst. off Cape Charles, and now brought in here last Night.  I have the honor to forward them for Your Excellency’s information.
                  The French Troops and Delaware regiments embarked and Sailed from Annapolis on the evening of the 20th.
                  There remains only one Vessel (exclusive of the French prize ship) in this port.  she begins to take in flour to day, and will sail with 400 bbls by the 26th.
                  My Baggage will go on to morrow and will be followd by myself immediately after.  I have the Honor to be Yr Excellencys Most Obt Servt

                     M. Gist

                Enclosure
                                                            Dear SirCamp Yorktown 31st Augt-9 September 1781 8 o’clock at night

                     I am this moment informed that a small Boat is this night to be dispatched for New York to acquaint the Commander in Chief of the arrival of twenty five french Ships of War in the Baythe day before Yesterday—three of them are anchored in our view—They drove in our Cruisers, & took the Loyalist sloop of War, after a most obstinate Battle with two of their Frigates for two hours, in which, the Loyalist lost her Main Mast by the Board, & her fore & mizen topmasts—Captain Williams’s gallant defence gave sufficient time to the Guardaloup that was on her way to Charlestown the Bonella, & three or four small Vessels to get in here—The last dispatch Scooner from N. York was one of them—had she been an hour later, she must have fallen into the hands of the French.  We have not as yet heard the loss of men on board the Loyalist—Its support to be very great, from the shatter’d Situation she was seen in by Captain Robinson of the Guardaloup.
                     The most distant prospect of your receiving my acklegement of your agreeable favors of the 8th instant coming to hand I would not omit—Nothing but hard Labour goes on here at present in constructing & making Batteries towards the River, & Redoubts towards the Land.  The troops are in perfect health & high spirits—& if our Enemies are polite enough to give us three day’s grace, we shall be able to receive the Count d’ Grass & his friend the Marquiss in a proper manner.
                     Captain Lawrence Campbell to whose company Munro belonged, is at Charlestown, & untill he joins there is no possibility of Settling his Acctts; however you’ll be pleased to send me by the first opportunity a note of the charge Munro himself makes against the Regt—Will you be kind enough to inquire of Captain Macpherson of the Pioneers what he has done with my bay Stallion?  if he has sold him please receive the Cash.
                     My friends To the Northward except yourself I believe have totally foregot me—Pray tell Traver of ours, Macpherson of the 82d, Scott & all the Lads of the Celliere Band so.
                     Unfortunatey—The dispatch Boat I’m told sailed half an hour ago—No help for it—I shall be more attentive to the next Conveyance; by which, I shall send this, with anything else that may occur—1/2 an hour past 9 o’Clock—Night The 2d Septr Three french Frigates join the Ships at the entrance of the River so that the Blockade by water is complete.
                     The Army still hard at Work, & now formed into two Lines, with a Reserve, & encamped on the Ground, which we are to maintain to the last—The 2d. L. Infantry the 71st, 80th & 2d Anspach form the first Line—1st L. Infantry The Brigade of Guards, 76th & 1st Anspach make the Sd Line, & the 33d & The Regt D’ Bose compose the Reserve—The 17th, 23d, 43d, with some provincial Corps, Merchants & Inhabitants embodied into Companies occupy the Redoubts near the Town—The Seamen all the Batteries.
                     The Hereditary Prince’s Regt, the Q. Rangers Yaugers, & some convalesents are strongly fortified at Glochester directly opposite to us.
                     We most heartily dispise in our present sitiation the united force of the Yankees & the ematiated west India french lately landed, our position being naturally so strong, & assisted with the greatest skill by Art, A fine train of Artillery well manned—The Enemy are incamped nine Miles from—two below Williamsburg—It’s my own opinion they are not inforce—6th The french Ships got off.  My best wishes attend you & yours.  I alwise ’am  Very sincerely Yours

                         Dun. McPherson

                        Yorktown Lines in Camp 9th September 1781.

                Enclosure

                        Dear Brother,
                        Virginia, York Town Sepr 8th 1781.

                     Your favr of the 11th Ulto, I only recd the 6th Inst.  I cannot acct for its being so long in comeing to hand, yours of the 23d I duly recd immediately on the Vessels Arrival, Forbes Newton & myself, went on board soon after she came too & behold Newton was agreeably astonish’d at the sight of his Spouse.  I enquir’d of Mrs N——n, for Letters she made answer, she had none, also that she saw you on her departure & ask’d you if you had any letters for me.  Your answer was it was too late to write, or something to that intent.  However, upon application on shore, at Mr Mitchels I recd yours of 23d, to which I have already made answer.  I am glad to find that mine goes safe, and it gives me unspeakable pleasure to hear of your wellfare—I think for my part the change which we have made in place is not much in favour as to health.  the T——s & others in a general way is troubled with a Flux & Children here dies like Rotten Sheep.  a little Boy which I had, being left an Orphan Child, is dead, since we came here & me & mine are but in a very indiferent state of Health, being troubled with the sickness’s which are in this Garrison.  the Goods left me by Mr Colquhour to dispose off, it has not been in my power to sell the least mite of. in short it has not been a time to do any thing in that way, we being so much in Agitation, I am apprehensive you will be able to do little with them soon, as the season is nearly expird for such Goods.  another matter is that you will not be able to sell at the Advance fixd on them, as the most saleable Articles can be had on lower terms.  I always thought it owing to an Overstock of these Articles being the cause of your comeing to this market.  I agree wt. you that exertion is the Key of Commerce, but matters have got to that heigth that no one knows what to do for the best, for instance the last manouver, it was firmly beleiv’d Portsmouth would have Continued a Garrison, but alas it has turn’d out otherways, so that many will be immense sufferers, I hope however it will be in our power to possess the House at Norfolk er’r long, I thought it prudent to leave its possession of a Family which staid behind, thinking it might be the greater means of saving it.  I made application for Robt Millar first Note this day & he keeps putg me off from time to time, but he informs he will assist me in a day or two.  I wanted it now as I could get a Bill of Captn Valancey tomorrow, and purpos’d to purchas’d wt Millars Hargraves and Co.—& what money I have on hand, but the proposals being not agreable shall refer at this time, he will draw no other ways than if the money cannot be made up at New York, the paymaster Genl on whom the draught will be, shall optionaly draw on England & on the paymaster Genl there.  This being contrary to my Instructions, I shall do nothing for a few days, in which time I have the offer suitable to us & will be the more enabled to purchase.  I return you & Mr Colquhour my most hearty thanks for the tender of the Goods, but must beg leave to decline any such pretensions at this critcal juncture, however, while I have the trust repos’d on me, I will endeavour to discharge my duty, this come by way of a Packet & is the first in my power since I came here, I presume ee’r long the last will be clear, so that Vessels can go Constant the Vessel just going to sail can add no more for the present, but remain Dear Bror, Your Affectionate Bror,

                        James Riddell

                        P.S.  my Compts to Mr Colquhour & hopes this will find you both well.  J.R.
                        As the Vessel has not sail’d, I think well to add, that you had better refer shipping any more Goods, till these troubles are settled, I mean the present, however, I will leave it to yourself, I am inform’d, there is a Brigr will sail and in a few days, by which will write & inclose you a Bill for what I can posibly command.  Trade is very dull here & we are very unsettled at present.

                        J.R.

                Enclosure

                        8 Sepr 1781 at York Town

                     Mrs Thompson, Dublin Arms Nassau Street, near Main Guard New York—
                     Capt. Vallancy & family all well 8 Sepr 1781 at York Town.

                        G. Vallancey

                Enclosure

                        Dear Sir
                        Charon 8th Sepr ’81

                     As I may not have occasion to draw for some time, be so good as to send home to my Wife a draught for one Hundred Pounds sterling & give her ad__er of it—& at the same time send here Twenty or Thirty Ships of the Line, Yrs &c. in a hurry

                        T.S.

                Enclosure

                        Sir
                        York Town Virginia. 8 Septr 1781.

                     I have made several attempts to inform your Excellency, that the French West India Fleet under Monsr de Grasse entered the Capes the 29th Ulto: I could not exactly learn their number, they report twenty five or twenty six Sail of the Line.  One 74, & two of 64 & one Frigate lay in the Mouth of this River.  On the 6th, the 74 & Frigate turned down with a contrary Wind, & yesterday the two others followed.  My Report dated last Evening from a Point below, which commands a view of the Capes & Bay, says that there were within the Capes only seven Ships, two of which were certainly Ships of the Line, & two Frigates.  Firing was said to be heard off the Capes, the night of the 4th, the Morning & Night of the 5th, & Morning of the 6th.
                     The French Troops, landed at James Town, are said to be three thousand eight hundred,  Washington is said to be shortly expected, & his Troops are intended to be brought by water from the head of Elk under protection of the French Ships, The Marquis de La Fayette is at or near Williamsburgh, & the French Troops are expected there, but were arrived last night.  portion in code  I will be very carefull of it.  I have the honour to be with great respect, Sir, Your most obedient & Most humble Servant

                        Cornwallis


Title: From George Washington to Robert Howe, 24 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

                     Dear Sir,
                     Williamsburg 24th Septemr 1781

                  The constant Attention I have been obliged to pay to the March of the Troops—forwarding Stores—procuring Necessaries &c. for the Expedition in Contemplation with other unavoidable Circumstances, have prevented my giving an Answer to your private Letter, which I received at Philadelphia, before this Day.
                  I am very sorry you have taken up the Matter in so serious a Light as seems to appear from your Letter & that you are so Deeply affected.  I can Assure you, that there was nothing like a designed Neglect or Omission in your not being called into this Service— but the Matter turned up sincerely from the common Rotine of Duty—In the Course of which Genl Heath stood first, & therefore took the Comand he now has—Lord Stirling, who came next in Course from his Age and Infirmities, I viewed unequal to the toils & Fatigue of the March & Consequent hard Duties of the Expedition—on which Ground and a candid Representation of it to his Lordship, he perfectly acquiessed.  Genl Lincoln was the next M. Genl on the List—for him no Excuse could be formed—he therefore filled the Comand that was necessary.
                  Under this View of the Case, your good Sense with your Knowlege of Military Duty & Service, I dare say, will make you easy with your present Lot—altho you might esteem yourself more happy in another Situation.
                  Our operations here are fast Ripening to the Point of their Comencement—a Day or two will carry us before the Works of Lord Cornwallis—our Prospects are at present fair & promising—what may be in the Womb of Fate is very uncertain—but we anticipate the Reduction of Ld Cornwallis with his Army with much Satisfaction. I am Dear Sir Yours &c.

                     G.W.


Title: General Orders, 25 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Williamsburgh Tuesday Septr 25th 1781
                     Parole Petersburgh
                     C. Signs Richmond Hannover

                  All deserters and persons coming from the Enemys Lines are to be sent in the first instance to Head Quarters—No Horses, Arms or accoutrements are to be purchased from them except for the Public services, unless it is specified to the contrary in the written passes which will be granted to them by the Adjutant General—any persons of the above discription found without proper passes, with the Army or in the environs of the Encampments are to be apprehended and sent to the provost Guard.
                  The Deputy Commissary of Prisoners will report to Head Quarters all prisoners of War immediately after their Capture.
                  At a General Court Martial assembled at Williamsburgh September 12th 1781 by order of Major General the Marquis de la Fayette Colonel Vose President—Captain Wilkin of Colonel Stewarts Battalion of the Pennsylvania line, charged by Col Stewart with riotous behavior in his tent at an unseasonable hour of the Night; with disobedience of orders in not desisting when ordered so to do by the field Officer of the day through the Adjutt Captain Vanhorn and for using language and conduct subversive of good order and Discipline, was tried and acquited.
                  The Commander in Chief approves the Opinion of the Court.  Captain Wilkin is released from his Arrest.
                  The several issuing Commissaries will be particularly careful in preserving all the sheep skinns, for the use of the Artillery—They will be delivered on application to Mr Thomas Jones, Deputy field Commissary of Military stores.
                  Captain Lieutenant Miles is appointed Brigade Quarter Master to the Artillery in the room of Captain Lieutenant How deceased, he is to be obeyed accordingly.


Title: To George Washington from Daniel Brodhead, 25 September 1781
From: Brodhead, Daniel
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General
                     Fort Pitt Sepr 25th 1781.

                  I am honored with your favor of the sixth instant and agreeable to your instruction immediately ceased taking upon myself the Command of this post.
                  I humbly beg your Excellencies pardon for having been mistaken as to your intention & I hope this misapprehension may not be considered as voluntary.
                  Since the receipt of your Letter several disputes have arose respecting the person who was appointed to act as Judge advocate.  This I am informed is now given up by Mr Fowler & Captn Finley who I mentioned in mine of the 19th ultimo will proceed on the business immediately.  I hope it will soon be in my power to convince your Excellency & the world that the charges exhibited against me are false & groundless.  And that however I may have wanted ability my integrity for every purpose that might serve the cause in which we are engaged hath been firm & unshaken.
                  As soon as the necessary Depositions are taken I shall do myself the Honor to wait upon you & take my trial.  I have the Honor to be with unremitting attachment & respect your Excellencies most obedt & Hble Servt

                     Daniel Brodhead


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 25 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                     Sir,
                     Williamsburg 25th Sept. 1781

                  I cannot conceal from your Excellency the painful anxiety under which I have laboured since the receipt of the letter with which you honored me on the 23d inst.
                  The naval movements which your Excellency states there as possible, considering the intelligence communicated to you by the Baron De Clossen, make it incumbent upon me to represent the consequences that wd arise from them—and to urge a perseverance in the plan already agreed upon.  Give me leave in the first place, to repeat to yr Excellency that the enterprise against York, under the protection of your Ships, is as certain as any Military operation can be rendered by a decisive superiority of strength and means—that it is in fact reducible to calculation—& that the surrender of the British Garrison will be so important in itself and its consequences, that it must necessarily go a great way towards terminating the war, and securing the invaluable objects of it to the Allies.
                  Your Excellency’s departure from the Chesapeake, by affording an opening for the succour of York, which the Enemy would instantly avail himself of—would frustrate these brilliant prospects—and the consequence would be not only the disgrace & loss of renouncing an enterprise upon which the fairest expectations of the Allies have been founded—after the most expensive preparations and uncommon exertions & fatigues—but the disbanding perhaps the whole Army for want of provisions—The present Theatre of the War is totally deficient in means of land transportation being intersected by large rivers, and the whole dependance for interior communication being upon small Vessels.The Country has been so much exhausted besides by the ravages of the Enemy, and the subsistence of our own Army—that our supplies can only be drawn from a distance and under cover of a fleet Mistress of the Chesapeake.
                  I most earnestly entreat Your Excellency farther to consider, that if the present opportunity shd be missed, that if you shd withdraw your maritime force from the position agreed upon, that no future day can restore us a similar occasion—for striking a decisive blow—that the british will be indefatigable in strengthening their most important maritime points—and that the epoch of an honorable Peace will be more remote than ever.
                  The confidence with which I feel myself inspired by the energy of character and the naval talents which so eminently distinguish Yr Excellency leaves me no doubt that upon a consideration of the consequences which must follow your departure from the Chesapeake that Yr Excellency will determine upon the possible measure which the dearest interests of the common cause wd dictate.
                  I had invariably flattered myself from the accounts given me by skilful mariners, that Your Excellys position, moored in the Chesapeake might be made so respectable as to bid defiance to any attempt on the pt of the british fleet—at the same time that it wd support the operations of a Siege—secure the transportation of our supplies by water—and oeconomise the most pretious time, by facilitating the debarkation of our heavy Artillery and stores conveniently to the trenches in York River.  It is to be observed that the strength of the enemy’s reinforcement announced under Admiral Digby as we have the intelligence from the british may not only be exaggerated, but altogether a Finesse—and supposing the account consistent with truth; their total force it was hoped wd not put them in condition to attack with any prospect of success.
                  If the stationary position which had been agreed upon should be found utterly impracticable, there is an alternative which however inferior considered relatively to the support and facility of our land operations would save our affairs from ruin.  this is to cruise with your Excellencys fleet within view of the capes—so as effectually to prevent the entrance of any british Vessels.
                  Upon the whole, I sd esteem myself deficient in my duty to the common cause of France & America, if I did not persevere in entreating yr Excellency to resume the plans that have been so happily arranged & if invincible Maritime reasons prevent I depend as a last resource upon Your Excellencys pursuing the alternative abovementioned & rendering the Chesapeake inaccessible to any Enemy’s Vessel.
                  However the british Admiral may manoeuvre and endeavour to divert Yr Excellency from the object in view, I can hardly admit a belief that it can be his serious intention to engage in a general action with a fleet whose force will be superior supposing the most flattering accounts for the british to be true—past experience having taught them to engage with caution even upon equal terms—& forced from them acknowledgements, which prove the respect with which they have been inspired.
                  Let me add Sir that even a momentary absence of the Ffrench fleet may expose us to the loss of the british Garrison at York as in the present state of affairs Ld Cornwallis might effect the evacuation with the loss of his Artillery and baggage & such a sacrifice of men as his object would evidently justify.
                  The Marquis de la Fayette who does me the honor to bear this to Yr Excellency will explain many peculiarities of our situation which could not well be comprised in a letter—his candour and abilities are well known to Yr Excellency—and entitle him to the fullest confidence in treating the most important interests.  I have earnestly requested him not to proceed any farther than the Capes for fear of accidents shd Yr Excellency have put to Sea—in this case he will dispatch a Letter to Yr Excellency in addition to this.  I have the honor to be, &c.with Sentiments of the highest respect & attachmt

                     G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 25 September 1781
From: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de
To: Washington, George

                     Monsieur
                      25 September 1781

                  Jai l’honneur de prévenir Votre Excellence, que j’ai assemblé ce matin un conseil composé des officiers genéraux de mon armée et je leur ai exposé les motifs qui m’y determinoient.  Le résutât a êté, que le parti que je voulois prendre d’appareiller, etoit le plus brillant et le plus glorieux, mais qu’il ne remplissoit pas les vuës que nous nous etions proposés;  Enconsequence, il a êté decidé que la grande partie de L’armée, iroit mouiller dans la riviere d’York, que 4. ou 5 Vasseaux seroient entraversés, et emboissés dans celle de james, et que Vous nous favoriseriés les moyens de faire une batterie sur la point de Comfort de façon â y placer du canon de 36. et des mortiers.  Nous allons travailler à l’exécution de ce résultât et je me hâte de vous en donner avis tout de suitte, afin que nous puissions agir de concert pour le bien de nos opérations.
                   j’ai l’honneur d’adresser à Votre Excellence un avis qui m’est arrivé; je n’en garantis pas la réalité, mais il est bon que vous soyés instruit.   je vous renouvelle avec un vrai plaisir les assurances de la consideration respectueuse, avec lesquelles j’ai l’honneur d’être De Votre Excellence Le três humble et três obéissant serviteur

                     Le Comte de Grasse


Title: From George Washington to John Hurt, 25 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Hurt, John

                     sir
                     Williamsburg 25th Septemr 1781

                  I have received your Letter of Yesterday—It is a fact that, by particular Agreement with Sir Hry Clinton, the Chaplains both of the American & British Armies, are exempted from Detention by Capture, or Parole—pleading therefore that Stipulation, I know no Reason the Enemy can have for detaing you a Prisoner of War—or holding you under Parole—but should suppose you at your Liberty—several of their Chaplains have been released without any Compensation.
                  As to Want of Pay—it is the comon Misfortune attending the Army—& which cannot at present be relieved by me—Measures are however, taking to put the Pay of the Troops upon a better Footing, than has for some Time past been experienced.
                  I have found it very difficult to obtain a few Horses which were wanted for myself & some Gentlemen of the French Army—so that it is not in my Power to afford you Assistance in that Respect.


Title: To George Washington from Martelli Chautard, 25 September 1781
From: Chautard, Martelli
To: Washington, George

                  Monsieur

                     A Bord de L’Experiment dans la riviere James Le 25. 7br 1781

                  Jay L’honneur de vous adresser un Memoire Pour Mr Segond mon parent, auquel Je dois le plus vif Intèrest. on ma assuré que la grace que Je prens la liberté de demander a Votre Excelence, nest pas Sans Exemple, lés assertions flateuse qui nous été doné de la Conduitte Militaire de Cet Offer particulierement Par Mr Le Vicomte de Noaille, redoublans mon Interest pour luy, monsieu hardy à Vous la demander, me faisans Esperer qu’il auroit pu meriter Votre protection.  Je nose ajouter, Monsieur, que Je regarderay Comme Personel Tous Ce que Vous Voudrés Bien faire pour lui.  Jay L’honneur D’Etre avéc Respets De Votre Excelençe, Le Trés heumble et Trés Obéissant Serviteur

                     martelli chautard

                Enclosure

                        A Bord de L’Experiment le 25. 7br 1781

                     Martelli Chautard Capne dés Vaux   de Sa majesté Trés Chretienne Comdt L’Experiment aujourd huy en rivière James, Prend la respecteuse liberté, de reclamer la protection, et lés Boules du son Excelence, pour Monsieur Segond son parent qui a l’honneur de Servir lés Etats de la republique avéc le grade de Capne, dans la Legion de Polwasky aux ordres du Colonél Armand.
                     Ces Officiers assés heureux, pour avoir merité l’Estime de Ceux qui l’on Vû Sous lés armes, na rien de plus á Coeur que de pouvoir y rentrer, et gemir de Se Trouver prisonniers, et le douzieme a etre Echangé, dans un moment ou il Seroit aportée de rendre dés Services ce de Continuer de Se distinguer.
                     Mr de Martelli à L’honneur de prier Justament Son Excelence Le General Wasginston, de Vouloir bien devançer le moment, pour fair accorder l’Echange de ces Offer ayant L’honeur d’assurer S. Ex. que Cette grace luy Sera personnelle et une preuve bien flateuse de Sa Satisfaction, dés soins que Mr de Martellis’est donné depuis Son arrivée dans la riviere pour aider au Succés dés armes et dés projéts dés Etats.

                        martelli chautard


Title: To George Washington from George Weedon, 25 September 1781
From: Weedon, George
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Camp Ware Church Sepr 25. 1781

                  I have the honor of your Excellency’s Letter of the 23d.  Count D’Arotte at the head of Lauzun’s Cavalry, joined me yesterday 1/2 after 11 OClock; Mr Hunter my Volunteer Aide de Camp will have the honor of delivering you this;  I had sent him in search of the Infantry of the Duc’s corps.  he returned yesterday without being able to gain any intelligence of ’em, I take the liberty of introducing Mr Hunter to your Excellency; & of referring you to him for every particular respecting our slow operations on this side, I shall move my Camp this morning & take a position six miles below this at a place called Dixon’s Mill.  I have the honor to be with perfect esteem & respect Yr Excellencys mo. obt Servt

                     G. Weedon


Title: To George Washington from Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 26 September 1781
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                     Monsieur.
                      a Philadelphie le 26. Sepr 1781.

                  J’ai l’honneur d’envoyer à Votre Excellence copie d’une lettre que j’ai reçue de Mr le Gardeur de Tilly.  Elle Contient toutes les nouvelles qui me Sont parvenues de ce coté.  Je viens de lui envoyer un Exprès et j’ai beaucoup d’esperances que mes lettres le trouveront encore dans la Baye de Chesapeak.  Je me suis abstenu de lui faire aucune requisition d’y séjourner et j’ai pensé que c’etoit à lui à juger de sa Situation et du parti qui lui convient de prendre; néanmoins je lui indique les motifs principaux qui peuvent le determiner à ne pas s’eloigner promptement et j’ai quelque raison de croire qu’il attendra dans la Baye de Chesapeack les ordres de Mr Destouches.  J’ai l’honneur d’être avec un respectueux attachement Monsieur De Votre Excellence le très humble et très obéissant Serviteur

                     Le che. de la luzerne


Title: To George Washington from Thomas McKean, 26 September 1781
From: McKean, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                     Private
                     Sir,
                     Philadelphia Sep. 26 1781

                  Since I had the honor of writing to you on the 21st instant, I have learned, that on the proposed mediation of the Emperor of Germany and the Empress of Russia to the belligerent powers, the Court of France accepted it, on condition his Allies the United States of America should accede thereto, adding he would immediately advertise them of the measure; the Court of Spain declined it, because a direct negociation had taken place between her & Great Britain, thro’ Mr Cumberland, who was then at Madrid.  Soon after this Mr Cumberland was recalled, and the propositions were removed.  France thereupon desired two questions might be put to Great Britain; 1st. Whether she would agree to the United States’s having a Minister Plenipotentiary at the Congress?  2dly In what manner she would treat with such minister, whether as the Representatives of Sovereign States?  These propositions were not only entirely evaded, but Great Britain made it a preliminary, that France should dissolve her connections with the King’s subjects in America.  Thus matters rested ’till July, when some dark hints were thrown out by Great Britain, that all the States in America could not reasonably expect to be acknowledged Independant, as many of them were subdued by her Arms; and of the seventeen Provinces in the Low Countries only seven were so acknowledged by Spain, which seemed to be the only Precedent of the kind.  No further overtures have been made on this head.
                  Congress had, in the last winter, acceded to the terms of the armed neutrality planned by the Empress of Russia, and appointed the honorable Francis Dana as their Minister to Petersburgh.  Before he set out he waited upon the Count de Vergennes at Paris, and, by his advice, will not appear at the Russian Court in a public Character, without a previous certainty that he will be received as such, which is not expected in the present stage of affairs, it behoving Mediators to be quite impartial between the powers at variance: However the way has been prepared in such a manner, as to ensure a friendly reception of him as a private gentleman, and for the rest he must trust to the Chapter of Accidents.  The Empress was not a little pleased with the Act of Congress agreeing to her maritime code; especially as they had not been invited to it but did it voluntarily.
                  We are plainly told, that we cannot have any more forces from France, by Sea or Land, after this campaign, nor are we to rely on any farther pecuniary assistance:  The situation of Affairs in Europe will demand their utmost exertions there, and they expect to render as much real service to the common cause in other places, as they could possibly do in America.  France, notwithstanding, will continue to pay the interest of our Loan–Office Certificates; and the King has made a free gift of six millions of Livres Tourney, to the United States of the money already supplied them.  You may rely on the authenticity of what I have communicated.
                  In this state of things it behoves us to make the most of the present opportunity.  If New York, York-Town in Virginia and Charlestown could be invested at the same time, the very attempt would have a prodigious effect on our enemies and the minds of the Courts in Europe, and in my humble opinion would not only expedite the negociation for peace, but bring it to a favorable issue.  Is this practicable?  I confess I cannot answer the question; but if Count de Grass could blockade New York with his fleet, leaving a sufficient number of ships in Chesapeake, and the Militia of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, now called out were to march to Amboy, Elizabeth-Town &c. and General Heath to close in to the Northward, I think it might be very beneficial.  This would effectually prevent General Clinton from detaching by Sea or Land to any place whatsoever; Admiral Digby, or at least many victuallers and merchantmen, might be captured, and if it pleases Providence that you should speedily reduce Cornwallis, you might proceed with your victorious army to New York and have a prospect of taking it before the Winter sets in.  In such a case Charles Town would fall of course, or be evacuated.  At any rate we could lend our whole force against it the ensuing Winter.
                  The spirit discovered by the Militia and others seems to invite to enterprize; it is higher than at any time since 1776.
                  The Robust and Prudent Ships of War have been condemned on a survey last week, as unfit for further service, the damages sustained by the London, Shrewsbury and the other ships is equal to what was first mentioned.
                  We wait with a degree of anxiety for certain intelligence from the Southward, having had none for upwards of a fortnight.
                  This moment I was honored with your letter of the 15th instant, which shall be read in Congress tomorrow.  I have the honor to be, with the utmost regard, Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and devoted humble Servant

                     Thos M.Kean


Title: To George Washington from Thomson Francis Mason, 26 September 1781
From: Mason, Thomson Francis
To: Washington, George

                     My Dear General
                     Rasberry Plain Sepr 26th 1781

                  I most sincerely congratulate your Excellency upon your safe Return to your native Country, and look upon it as a happy Presage of putting a glorious Period to the present War.But do not flatter yourself, that your Fatigues are to end with this War.  No, more glorious ones are yet reserved for you, in ridding your Country of its domestic Enemies, more vilent indeed, but not less destructive, than its foreign Invaders; and in fixg some permanent Constitution that may render us happier, than the present ever can; it is my most ardent Wish and Expectation, that you will accomplish all this.Nothing but my crazy Constitution, should have restrained me from thanking your Excellency in Person, for the Benefits which I as a private Citizen, am likely to enjoy from your Labours, but as my Health will not permit me to undertake so long a Journey; this will be handed to you by one of my two eldest Sons, the first Stevens Thomson, is equipped as a volunteer Horse Man, the seccond having served out his Tour of Duty as an Ensign in the Loudoun Militia, is also desirous of serving the Remainder of the Campaign as a Volunteer, to which I have consented, and sent him a Horse.
                  From the retired Privacy in which they have been brought up, I have no Expectation that they can render their Country any effectual Service.  But to pay a grateful Respect to General Washington, is a Duty due from every Citizen of America, and for that Reason only, do they wait upon your Excellency.
                  In whatever Capacity you may employ them for the Remainder of the Campaign, (and I can part with them no longer,) I will be answerable they will discharge their Duty, with Bravery, Secrecy, Integrity; and the eldest is tollerably ready at most kinds of Business.  I have the honour to be with the greatest Respect and Esteem Your Excellency’s most devoted obliged and affectionate humble Servant

                     Thomson Mason


Title: To George Washington from Philip John Schuyler, 26 September 1781
From: Schuyler, Philip John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Albany September 26th 1781

                  Mrs Fisher, a widow of this city, and a number of others have most earnestly intreated my intercession in favor of the widows son, Myndert Fisher who is under sentence of death at Fort Pitt.  the distressed mother is informed that he is charged with an attempt to go to the enemy and convey Intelligence, there may be circumstances to recommend him & Your Excellencys mercy, and these If they appeared, I informed his mother, I was persuaded he would profit by.
                   I hope before the time that you are in the vicinity of Lord Cornwallis, may heaven grant that the no untoward circumstances may intervene to deprive you of accomplishing your views on that officer.  All is quiet in this quarter at present; but we will probably have a visit soon

                  As they are before this advised of Your Excellencys movement and have nothing to fear for Quebec the peoples spirits are raised and I hope If the enemy attempt a penetration  they will have a sufficient number to repell them.  With every wish for your health and happiness & with the sincerest regard and affection I am Dear Sir Your Excellency’s Most obedinet Servant

                     Ph: Schuyler


Title: To George Washington from Charles Stewart, 26 September 1781
From: Stewart, Charles,Blaine, Ephraim
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Williamsburgh 26th September 1781

                  Governor Nelsons plan for swiming the Cattle across the River has failed, but he adopted another and sent Col. Wills with a party of Militia with Orders to slaughter the Cattle and bring the Beef over in Boats—this will answer, some of the Beef is already at the landing, and we hope will continue to come as fast as wanting until the Drove on the west side are exhausted—Governor Nelson has also given Directions to arrange the Craft under proper Superintendents and send them to the places where Flour & Corn are deposited in this State & Maryland, of which plans we have given him the most accurate Returns in our power, by them it appears that near five thousand Barrels is and will be ready in a few Days—and from the Zeal shewn by Governor Nelson we hope it will arrive in time to keep the Troops supplied—On examining the Map of the Eastern Shore, we think Cherry Stone a proper Landing for the Supplies to be furnished by the two Counties in Virginia, and that Snow Hill & Vienna are also proper for the Maryland Shore—Should Your Excellency think a third place needful we apprehend Choptank will answer & shall on knowing Your Excellency’s sentiments, write to Governor Lee to Order the State Agents to deliver their Supplies at those places.
                  In order to have the Supplies as Certain as possible E. Blaine proposes to Cross the Bay and instantly set on foot the Business of slaughtering and conveying to Camp the Collections in Maryland and those two Counties in Virginia—We observe with concern that the Department of Commissary of Hides is much neglected, and the Tallow so much wanted to make Soap & Candles is in a great measure lost and destroyed—We wish not to interfere with the Duties of other Men, but in order to have the Soap and Candles furnished we will if agreeable to Your Excellency Appoint one or more persons to superintend this Business and make Contracts on the best terms we can for Soap & Candles to Supply Your Army—We have the Honor to be with the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedt & most Hble Servts

                     Chas Stewart Commy Genl Issues
                     Eph. Blaine C.G.P.


Title: To George Washington from James Craik, 27 September 1781
From: Craik, James
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Williamsburgh Septr 27th 1781

                  The increase of our Sick within these Few days past, and a certainty of a still further increase as the season advances from the natural causes which operate in this quarter, and those that are always attendant on Seiges, makes me anxious to state to your Excellency our situation with respect to Blanketts; the Hospital is intirely without this Article: And permit me to represent to your Excellency that we have the greatest mortality to apprehend unless a proper supply can be instantly obtained: nothing is at this time more necessary or can be less wanted; but I will not take up your Excellency’s time on this head, it is enough to have stated these things to obtain that relief which will put us in a condition to discharge our duty, and to preserve the lives & health of the Soldiery.  I will only add that we shall not be able to do with less than six hundred Blanketts.  I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Sr Your Excellency Most Obedt Humbe Servt

                     James Craik


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 27 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters 27th Septemr 1781

                  I am much indebted to your Excellency for the instant Communication with which you have honored me, of the Dispositions that you have determined for your Fleet.
                  The Resolution that your Excellency has taken in our Circumstances proves, that a great Mind knows how to make personal Sacrifices to secure an important general Good—fully sensible of those wch your Excellency has made on the present Occasion, I flatter myself, that the Result of the Operations conducted under your Auspices, will compensate them by its utility to the comon Cause.
                  Your Excellency may depend on every Assistance that the Allied Armies can give relatively to the Battery which you propose at Comfort Point—& that our utmost Exertions will be used in hastening the investment of the Enemy.  I have the Honor to be with highest Respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient honorable Servt

                     Go: Washington

                     P.S.  I am this Moment informed by Deserters, that the Enemy are preparing more fire Ships against your Ships in the River—that the old Forvey is to be one.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 27 September 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                  Dear General,

                     Head quarters, Continental village, Sept. 27. 1781.

                  By the New York paper of the 22d which I have requested the President of Congress to forward to your Excellency, after his perusal, you will find Mr Rivington’s account of the naval engagement off the Chesepeak the 5th instant; but I think Mr Rivington must confess more.  My last accounts from New York are of the 23d instant.  The british fleet were then at the Hook taking every measure to refit, being very much damaged.  My informant supposes they have lost three sail of the line.  Cornwallis is given over for lost, and Sir Harry appears to be much in the horrors that he cannot relieve him.
                  The troops that have for some time been embarked at New York, are said to have disembarked at Staten Island—The tents of two large encampments are lately perceiveable.
                  Moody way–laid the last southern mail—but it being under the escort of three dragoons, he let it pass without attempting to sieze it.  He afterwards carried off three or four people, horses, &c.  I have the honor to be With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant,

                     W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Robert Morris, 27 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert

                  Dear Sir

                     Head Quars: Williamsburg Septr 27th 1781

                  It is of such essential consequence, in my opinion, that the Army should be regularly supplied with Rum during the present operation, that I cannot forbear interesting myself on the subject.  When we take into consideration how precious the lives of our men are, how much their health depends upon a liberal use of Spirits, in the judgment of the most skillful Physicians, who are best acquainted with the climate how meritorious their Services have been & what severe and incessant duties and fatigues are expected from them, we cannot hesitate to determine that the Public ought to incur a small expence, to answer the most valuable purposes, and preserve the lives of a great number of men who have merited extremely well of their Country.  I consider it therefore a duty to them as well as to my Country to request that the 50 Hogsheads of Rum mentioned in the inclosed letter from the Commissaries Genl of Purchases and Issues may be procured and forwarded as soon as it is practicable.  I am Dr Sir Your most obt servt

                     G. Washington


Title: From George Washington to Chevalier de Villebrune, 27 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Villebrune, Chevalier de

                  Sir

                     Head Quarters Septr 27th 1781

                  As the Count de Grasse has been pleased to signify his desire that you would make such arrangements for facilitating the operations of the land Army as the Service may require—I have to request that you will be pleased in the course of tomorrow to fall down the River to a convenient anchoring Ground near Mr Burrols at Martins hundred on the left hand Shore and remain there untill the point of debarkation for the heavy Artillery and Stores shall be determined upon.  This will be designated to you without loss of Time.  I have the honor to be &c.
                  Copy


Title: From George Washington to George Weedon, 27 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Weedon, George

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters Williamsburg Septr 27th 1781

                  I have received your favors of the 25th and 26th together with the examination of the Deserters.
                  I am now making application to the Count de Grasse for some of the Mariners of the Fleet; should they be landed to assist in our Operations (as I expect they will be) they will then be employed on the Gloster side—in that case an Officer senior to the Duke de Lauzun or yourself will be appointed to the Command, and I have no doubt, you will put yourself under his Orders with great chearfullness.  I am Dear Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Board of War, 28 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

                     Gentlemen
                     Head Quarters Williamsburg 28th Sepr 1781.

                  The Inclosed Letter from Doctr Craick of the Hospital, is of so much Importance, that I cannot omit to transmit it to your Board—& to enforce it with my Warmest Desire that its Request may be complied with in the shortest Time possible—The Exhausted Condition of this State admits no Relief—our only Hope is from you—the Importance of the Soldiers life to our Service, is too well known to you, to need any Coment from me, The Season is fast approachg when, If the poor fellows are not provided, their Lives will be sported with in the most distressing Manner. I am Gentlemen Your h. Sr.

                     G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 28 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                     Dear Sir
                     Head Quarters Williamsburg. 28th Septemr 1781.

                  I am very sorry to observe in your Letter of the 6th Augst a Complaint, that you have heard nothing from me since the 1st June—many Letters have been written to you since that Time—some of very particular Importance—This failure gives me Reason to fear some foul Play on the Route.
                  The last I wrote to you was from Philadelphia, of the 4th of this instant Month—informg that the Plan of our Campaign was totally changed from the Attack of N. York, which had been in Contemplation, & that I was then so far as that Place, advanced with my Troops, to comence a combined Operation against Lord Cornwallis in Virginia, with the french Fleet, wch was expected to arrive in the Chesapeake—I likewise informed, that Admiral Hood, with 13 Ships of the Line, had arrived at N. York, & joined the Force already there under Adml Graves—& that I had not heard of the Arrival of Count DeGrasse.
                  I have now to inform that I left Phila. on the 5th instt  The same Day, on my Rout, I met the agreable News of the Arrival of Admiral D. Grasse in the Chesapeak on the 26th Augst with a formidable Fleet of 28 Ships of the Line & 4 frigates—and that he had landed 3000 Troops, who had formed their  Junction with the Marquis—All possible Expedition was made to hurry on our Troops, Artillery, and Stores—which, I have the Satisfaction to inform you, have nearly all  arrived at & near this place, with less Accident or Disaster, than might have been expected—I arrived myself, preceeding the troops on the 14th & very soon paid a visit to the french Admiral  on Board his Ship to make our Arrangements for the Enterprize;which were most happily effected, & settled to mutual Satisfaction—The Admiral has taken his Position, for our Water Security to facilitate our Transportation & to Block the Enemy—Our Operations are fast drawing to a Point of Commencement—& by the 1st of Octo. I hope to open Trenches upon the Enemy’s Works.
                  While these Things are takg place on our Side, the Enemy are not Idle on their Part—Lord Cornwallis has collected his Troops on York River, & taken two ports—One in York, the other in Glocester; where he is fortifying with great Assiduity, & seems resolved to defend himself against our Seige with great obstinacy—By Accounts, thro Deserters, & otherways, I fear we  have little Hope to starve him into a Surrender—my greater Hope is, that he is not well provided with Artillery & Military Stores for such Defence—not having had it in Contemplation, the Situation to which he is now reduced.
                  By Information from N. York, I collect, that Admiral digby with (probably) 10 Ships of the Line from Europe, is arrived on the Coasts, & joined the British Squadron already here—this Junction, if formed, will probably make the English Fleet  consist of 30 Ships of Line—besides 50, & 40; & a Number of Frigates, which will bring the two fleets upon too near an Equality—Tis said also from N. York, that a large embarkation of their Troops is formed, & on Board Transports—& that Sir Hy Clinton himself is with them—their views undoubtedly look Southward.
                  The Count de Grasse has most happily & critically, formed a Junction with the Count de Barras from Newport—the conjoined Fleet are now in a good Position within the Capes of the Chesapeak Bay—makg in Number 36 Capital Ships of the Line-- four large French frigates ,with some Smaller Ships,  captured from the English, on Board one of which was Ld Rawdon, who had embarked  for England—two British Frigates, the Iris & Richmond,  which had been peeping into the Bay,have also been captured, & now form part of the Troops of   Allies.Thus you have a particular Detail of Circumstances so far at this Time—as to future prospects & Operations, should we have Success in the present Operations, it is impossible for me to decide in Favor of your Wishes, expressed in your Letter of the 6th Augst—If the Fleet remains so long as the Completion of the present Object, it is all I can expect from present Appearances—I hope however,if nothing further is obtained, we may be aided in our Transportation towards the Point of Your Wishes.

                  Colo. Steward, who is on his Way to your Camp, favors the Conveyance of this—Colo. Morris, who is now ill, & with me,will be detained a few days—by him, you may expect to have further & particular Accounts of our Progress—with a Confidential, verbal Comunication, of our future Prospects, Views, & Expectations.
                  I am informed by circuitous Means, of a very severe Action which has taken place on the 8th between your Army & the British under Comd of Colo. Steward—so many particulars are mentioned as give me Reason to believe these Reports are grounded in Fact—I wait impatiently for your Dispatches.With very great Esteem & Regard I am Dear Sir Your most obedt & humble Servant

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from James Lovell, 28 September 1781
From: Lovell, James
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philada Septr 28. 1781

                  With Views of public Utility I again take the Freedom of covering to you some papers for Majr General Greene and am your Excellency’s Obliged humble Servant

                     James Lovell


Title: To George Washington from Arthur St. Clair, 29 September 1781
From: St. Clair, Arthur
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Philadelphia Septr 29th 1781

                  I have been honoured with your Excellencys Letter of the 15th instt which came to hand on the 26th—previous to the receipt of it Congress had ordered me to draw all the Levies of this State to Philadelphia from an Apprehension, that strongly prevailed, and some Intelligence they credited, that Sir Henry Clinton with a Body of about five thousand Men intended, by way of Diversion to your Excellencys Operations, or to counterballance in some Measure your Success, to visit this City, and either plunder or destroy it—It appeared to me a very improbable Movement; for tho it might have been possible for him to force his Way to Delaware the Passage of that River might have been rendered very doubtful, and the Jersey Militia, with the Troops General Heath might in that Case have sent to their Assistance must have rendered his Retreat very difficult—if he attempted it by Water the difficulty of returning was not lessened, and the Danger of losing all his Vessels was added to it, yet the necessity he was thought to be under of making some Attempt in favour of Lord Cornwallis gained credit to every Report that made him look this Way.  Your Excellencys Letter was immediatly communicated to Congress, and this Day they have repeated the Order, and left me at Liberty to join the Army, which I shall do with as much Expedition as possible, and I hope I need not assure your Excellency that the being detained here in a state of Idleness when the Army was in the Field has been a most mortifying Circumstance, and what I would have studiously avoided had the Prospects been ever so unpromising—they are now so favorable as might tempt forward the least inclined to the Service—neither has there been any neglect to forward the Equipment of the Detachments the Delay has arisen from cruel Necessity—Its march however will be rather expedited by their having been brought here, as it will render Waggons, which the Quarter Master has not been able yet to procure, needless; nor has Mr Morris had it in his Power to give them one farthing, which has so soured both Officers and Men that I dread the Consequences.
                  The Assembly has passed a Law to raise Money, for the Recruiting Service, upon the Delinquent Classes under the former Law—It will be some time however before it will be productive—The Plan for carrying it on I expect to settle with Council tomorrow, and shall put the Execution of it under the Direction of Colonell Thompson, as General Irwine is ordered to Fort Pitt.  I have the Honor to be Sir Your Excellencys most obedient and very humble Servant

                     Ar. St Clair

                     A considerable Body of the Militia are encamped at Newton and the whole of the City and the three lower Countys called out.  Sir Henry Clinton is upon Staaten Island with about five thousand Men, and has removed the Cannon from the Battery at York.  The Princissa suffered so much in the Action with the Count de Grasse that she is laid up in the east River—the Terrible was abandonned at Sea and  set fire to and another line of Battle Ship is still missing.  Admiral Digby is arrived with a ninety and two seventy four Gun Ships.


Title: To George Washington from George Weedon, 29 September 1781
From: Weedon, George
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir,
                     Camp Ware Church 29 Sept. 1781

                  I am honor’d with your Excellency’s favor 27th and am happy to find this pass is to be succoured with a more respectable body of Troops than our present force, for my own part shall with the greatest chearfulness take the orders of any senior Officer your Excellency may please to send here, and I am sure the Duke de Lauzun will also pay the most perfect respect to your wish.  I yesterday made a forage at Abington Church of some Oats & Barley belonging to Col. Warner Lewis, by that Gentleman’s desire.  The covering party consisting of 3 Militia Battalions of Infantry; were advanced as low down as Sewells, they were supported by 100 Horse from the Duke de Lauzuns Legion with 30 Militia Dragoons.
                  While the Waggons were loading the Duke & Self reconnoiter’d the Country below, & were within a Mile of Gloster; the Enemy lay quite still & have not been out since the 24th Inst.  We had a view of one side of their Works, saw no one on them, & Deserters say they have not worked any for some days.  The last forage they made, our parties had a sight of each other, they fired a few Field pieces at us, but returned with a small Quantity of Corn that they had cut down in a Field near Town, not choosing to venture a single Yard after Mr Simcoe reconnoiter’d us with his Glass who swore to his people, "our Rifle Men were as thick as the Stalks in the Corn Field."  If your Excellency have not already pointed out a place for the Marines to debark at, I would recommend Mr Frank Willis’s on Ware River,  he lives not more than a Mile from Mobjac Bay, good navigation & 3 Mile from the left of our encampment & 10 from the Fleet laying in York River.
                  Should your Excellency design to push on a regular approach against Gloster I think it my duty to inform you, we have not a single entrenching Tool of any sort nor do I believe it possible to get any in this County.  for my own part I do not think it necessary for am well assured when your approaches commence the post at Gloster will either be evacuated or a rapid push made by all the British Horse to penetrate thro’ this Country turn your left, & throw themselves into N. Carolina.  This would be Hazardous, but what will they not attempt in their present Situation.
                  I am made exceedingly happy in the society & support of the Duke de Lauzun & his Corps, a perfect Harmony subsists & shall make it my study to improve it.  I have the honor to be with every sentiment of Esteem & attachment Your Excellency’s Most Obt Servt

                     G. Weedon


Title: General Orders, 30 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters Secretarys Quarter Sunday September 30th 1781
                     Parole Chattellux
                     C. signs Lincoln Steuben

                  Officers for the day Tomorrow
                  Brigadier General ClintonColonel VoseLt Col. OlneyB. M. CoxLieutenant Colonel De Hart to be field officer of the day in the room of Lieut. Colonel Barber indisposed—Major Cummings is appointed to do the duty of field Officer of the day in the room of Lieut. Colonel De Hart, absent with leave.
                  General Muhlenburghs Brigade will consider it self as a reserve Picquet this night—General Muhlenburgh will take his orders from Baron Steuben, Major General of the day.
                  A picquet consisting of eight Captains Sixteen subalterns sixteen serjeants and three hundred Rank and file, to parade immediately in the field between Tarltons Camp and the Works abandoned by the Enemy.
                  The Brigade Major of the day will inform Baron Steuben when  the Picquet is formed and take his orders for their disposition.
                  After orders.
                  The whole of Hazens Brigade off duty and 2 C., 6 S., 6 S. & 100 Rank & file of Waynes Brigade to be added to the reserve pickett already ordered, they will form with General Muhlenburghs Brigade at sun set and consider themselves under his immediate direction.
                  The advanced season and various considerations render it indispensibly necessary to conduct the attacks against York with the utmost rapidity, the General therefore exhorts and requires the Officers and soldiers of this Army to pursue the duties of their respective departments and stations with the most unabating ardor; the present moment offers in prospect the epoch which will decide American Independence and the Glory and superiority of the Allies.
                  A vigorous use of the means in our power cannot but ensure success, the passive conduct of the Enemy argues his Weakness and the uncertainty of his Counsels—the Libertys of America and the honor of the Allied Arms are in our hands; such objects must excite a patriotic emulation in the greatest actions and exertions, their consequences will amply compensate every Danger and fatigue.
                  All Deserters and others coming from the Enemies Lines are to be stopped at the outposts and reported to the General Officer of the day who is desired to find such as are capable of giving useful information to Head Quarters, the rest are to be disposed of as the Governor or person appointed by him may direct—in the first examination of them at the Outposts the most scrupulous attention is to be used, to prevent any person infected with the small pox from entring either the French or American Camps—All Officers and others are strictly forbid for obvious reasons to wear red Coats.
                  The General forbids all those who are not required by their station or the Command of a superior Officer to employ themselves in reconnoitering the Enemies works—the curiosity of such persons often interrups the observations of Officers particularly charged with this business—the good of the service requires that each officer adheres to the duty assigned to him.
                  Twelve hundred men properly Officered for fatigue Tomorrow—Four hundred of them are to parade near the two Redoubts now constructing, at day break.
                  The Quarter Master General will have One hundred Axes ready at the same time and place.  The remaining eight hundred are to parade at six oClock in front of the Encampment lately Occupied by Colonel Gimotts Regiment where the Quarter Master General will have the Tools employed today in making fascines and Gabions.  The Officer commanding each of the above parties will appoint a commissioned officer with a small guard to receive and deliver the intrenching Tool agreeable to the orders of yesterday—Stephens and Lawsons Brigades will furnish the above parties.


Title: To George Washington from Carter Braxton, 30 September 1781
From: Braxton, Carter
To: Washington, George

                     Dear Sir.
                      Sepr 30. 1781

                  I ask pardon for this intrusion at a time when your attention must be wholely engaged on a work of the highest Importance, nor should I, on any Suggestions of my own venture to give you a moments interruption; but Mr Howell the Lieutenant of a Guard placed here by the Marquiss De la Fayette, & the Bearer Capt. De Camuse who commands the Brig. Cornwallis belonging to his most christian Majesty, have interceded with me to inform you of our exposed Situation, the few men we have left to defend us & to pray your Excellency will be pleased to give orders I have our Guard increased.
                  When the Guard was first ordered here it consisted of fifty good Men wch was deemed sufficient.  By sickness & other Accidents the Number is now decreased to fifteen, these are of the Troops brot into this State by the Marquiss.  Capt. Camuse had about fifty in his Brig. but so many of them are sick that he has carried his Vessells up the River & no support is to be expected from him, unless from the Count de Grasse he can obtain more Seamen.  Two Days since the few Men here & the Inhabitants were threatned by the Enemy with destruction—They came within two miles of the point with four Boats & a hundred Men & if the appearance of the Brig. had not deterred them they would certainly have landed & plundered us—The Brig. having since left us, & I presume they, informed of our weakness, will certainly draw on us another Visit very soon—We are told by Persons in every Flag Vessell that comes up to expect and to dread this.  If by any reinforcement not prijudicial to your Excellency’s Army our Safety can be secured we are perswaded you will afford it, or give such orders as may conduce to our Security. With every Sentiment of respect & wish for your Happiness & Prosperity I am Sir Your hum. Servt

                     Carter Braxton


Title: To George Washington from John Gibson, 30 September 1781
From: Gibson, John
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Head Quarters Fort Pitt Sepr 30, 1781

                  I did myself the honour of writing your Excellency on the 25th of last month, inclosing the Intelligence recd from the Rev. Mr Zeisberger at the same time I sent Spies who went to within a few miles of Prequille Ft. Presque Isle they have returned but made no discovery.  By an Indian woman who made her Escape from the Moravian Towns and came in here we received the following Intelligence that some of the party of warriors mentiond in Mr Zeisberger’s letter to be at their towns, went to Wheeling, where they took a Boy prisoner, who informed them that the Garrison ofWheeling, & the Country in General were alarmed and on their Guard that they had been informed of their Intention by Letters sent to this place by the Moravian Ministers.  This Exasperated the warriors so much that they took the Ministers pPrisoners, tied them, and destroyed every thing they had and ordered the whole of the Moravian Indians to get up & move of with their families or they would cut them all of which they were obliged to consent to  A large party has since done some mischief in the County of Ohio, and on Ten mill  they have killed and taken Sixteen persons  they have Effected this with only the loss of only two of their party.  In my last I informed your Excellency, that I had fixed on the 4th of Sepr as a day of General Rendezvous for the troops to Assemble at Fort McIntosh, to make an excursion against the Wyandott Towns.  on receiving the Intelligence contained in the Ministers letter, with the advice of the Principal Officers of the Militia, I postponed it until the 12th of Sepr, as by that time we might be able to obtain certain Intelligence of the Enemy.  Col. Brodhead, tho for what reason I am at a loss to determine, wrote Circular Letters, informing the Country that he had fixed on the 15th of Sepr as a day of General Rendezvous on Montown’s Run for the Militia to Assemble, this and the Indians striking near Wheeling threw the Country into Confusion.  However, at the day I had appointed upwards of One Hundred Assembled but the number was to small to attempt anything: while Col. Brodhead had the mortification to find that not a single man appeared on the day fixed on for his General Rendezvous.  A day or two after the officers wrote Col. Brodhead a Letter informing him it was their Opinion he could not with propriety in the present situation of affairs, re-assume the Command, a Copy of which I did myself the honor of enclosing in my last to your Excellency.  He sent me an Arrest by the Brigade Major, Informing me that I was arrested for assuming the chief Command at this post, Thereby exciting mutiny and Sedition amongst a number of the officers in this Department, and also for neglect of duty and disobedience of orders, and that I was to Confine myself to the range of the Garrison; on the Receipt of which, I desired the Brigade Major to inform him that I should pay no Attention to his Arrest, as it was Evident to me as well from the letters of your Excellency, as also from the Charge that had been Exhibited against him, that he could not with any degree of Propriety re-assume the Command.
                  He continued attempting to Command until the return of the Express with lLetters from your Excellency at the Head of Elk.  This put an end to the dispute, though Col. Brodhead even after the Receipt of those Letters sent to inform me that he intended to publish it in General Orders that I was to take the Command of the W: D and wished to know whether it would be agreeable to me.  I returned him for Answer, that I thot there was no Necessity for so doing as the letters from your Excellency had been made known to the Officers.  The Express returned here on the 17th Instant, and the Depositions against Col. Brodhead were not begun being taken until yesterday owing to a difference between Colo. Brodhead & Capt. Fowler respecting the appointment of the Deputy Judge Advocate; however, the matter is now Settled, and I hope the Business will go on without any Interruption.
                  I hope your Excellency will pardon my Intrusion on your patience with the length of this Letter as I do it in Justification of my Conduct in this dispute, least any reports may prejudice me in your Excellency’s Esteem.
                  I have with the advice of Col. Willm Crawford, and the principal Gentlemen of this country, fixed on the 15th day of October for the Militia to Assemble at Fort McIntosh in order if possible to make an excursion against the Wiandat Towns and from the Accounts which I have from the different parts of the Country, the people will turn out and I expect to be able to collect Seven hundred men at least for that purpose.  Col. Crawford goes with me, and most of the principal Gentn in the country.
                  Inclosed are the Returns of the troops of this Department.
                  This will be handed your Excellency by Major William Croghan, who has spent some time in this Dept.; he will be able to give your Excellency a full account of every Transaction in this Country.  Permit me Therefore, to refer your Excellency to him.  I have the Honor to be with perfect Respect, Your Excellency’s most Obt. Humble Servant

                     Jno. Gibson, Colo.
                     Comdg W.D.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 30 September 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General,Head quarters, Continental Village, Sept. 30. 1781.

                  I have this moment received a New York paper of the 22d instant, which announces the arrival of Admiral Digby.  Mr Rivington does not mention the number of ships which have arrived—but through the same channel that I obtained the paper, I learn he arrived with three sail of the line and no others—that they have sent to Hallifax for two sail more of the line.
                  I have requested the President of Congress to forward the news paper with this letter to your Excellency.
                  The troops that were embarked at New York, disembarked as I mentioned in a former letter, at Staten Island, where they have been impressing waggons &c.  I have sent a detachment to Ramapaugh, where they may not only cover that pass into the mountains, but are at hand to aid the Jersey militia, if necessary.
                  The commandant of St Johns lately sent a party to gain intelligence from Saratoga—A captain Dunham and two militia men fell in with five of the party, whom they conducted safe to Saratoga with an address that did them much honor.  I have the honor to be With the highest respect, Your Excellencys Most obedient servant

                     W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 30 September 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                  My dear General

                     Camp Before York Septembr 30th 1781

                  You Have So often Been pleased to Ask I Would Give My opinion upon Any subject that May occur, that I will this day take the Liberty to Mention a few Articles.
                  I am far from Laughing at the idea of the Ennemy’s Making a Retreat—it is not very probable—But it is not impossible.  Indeed they Have no other way to escape—and Since We Cannot get ships above York I would be still more Afraid of a Retreat By West Point than any thing else.  The French Huzzards remaining here our dragoons and some infantry might be stationed some where Near Westpoint rather on the North Side.
                  I see the service is much done by details, and to use your permission would take the liberty to observe that when the siege is once begun it might be more Agreable to the officers and men to serve as much as possible By Whole Bataillons.
                  Clel Scamel is taken.  His absence I had accounted for By His Being officer of the day.  I am very sorry we loose a Valuable officer, But, tho’ Clel Scamel’s Being officer of the day Has Been a Reason for His going in front, I think it would be well to prevent the officers under the Rank of generals or field officers Reconnoitring for the safety of their Commands from Advancing so Near the Ennemy’s lines.
                  There is a great disproportion Betwen Huntington’s and Hamilton’s Bataillons.  Now that Scamel is taken we Might Have them Made equal, and put the eldest of the two lieutenant Colonels upon the Right of the Brigade.
                  I Have these past days wished for an opportunity to speak with Your Excellency on Count de Grasse’s demand Relative to Mr de Barras’s Fleet.  This Business Being Soon done, we may think of Charlestown, at least of the Harbour, or of Savahna.  I have Long and Seriously thought upon this Matter—But would not Be in Hurry to Mention it Untill we know How Long this will last.  However it Might be possible to give Count de Grasse an early Hint of it in Case you Agree with Him upon the winterly departure of the whole fleet for the West Indias.
                  One of my Reasons to wish troops (tho’ not in great number) to Be sent to Glocester County By way of Westpoint is that for the first days it will embarass any Movement of the Ennemy up the river or up the Country on either side—and when it is in Glocester County it may Be thought advantageous By a Respectable Regular force to prevent the ennemy’s increasing their works there and giving us the trouble of a second operation and in the same time it will keep from York a part of the British forces.  With the highest Respect and Most Sincere affection I have the honor to be dear Gal Your most obedient hble servant

                     Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 30 September 1781
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                  My dear General

                     Camp before York September 30th 1781

                  The letter that accompagnies this being relative to matters of public utility, I shall write also this confidential one where none but my private interests are concerned.
                  Owing to your partiality and friendship for me, I have during the Campaign acted the Most Agreable part—I commanded the Army in Virginia, I was opposed to Lord Cornwallis, and the troops you entrusted to me had the greatest share in the fatiguing movements that will end in the ruin of the ennemy in this quarter.
                  You was pleased to tell me, my dear General, that you took Gal Lincoln with you because you could not help it—I knew it had been the case, and I am too much used to the most delicate marks of your attachement not to be certain that had it been possible to take either Gal Howe or Gal McDougall you would not have liked to have me superseded in the Command of the American troops.
                  You remember, my dear General, that since I returned from France I never had any body betwen you and me—But now from being the Commander of the Army against Cornwallis I became one of Gal Lincoln’s officers who as of course the General leads the troops has nothing almost to say even in the Light Division.
                  Don’t think, my dear General, that I am any way disastisfied—I will chearfully serve any how where ever I am in General Washington’s Army—But as the command of the Right Wing in this siege is of the Highest importance to me—as it cannot have any similar effect upon Gal Lincoln’s reputation and Military prospects in Europe and the future course of his life, I am sure you will be so very kind to me as to adopt any plan consistent with propriety that may bring on an event so highly interesting to me that it can bear no comparaison.
                  Should some dragoons and infantry be thrown into Glocester County, or about West Point, could not Gal Lincoln have the general command of the North side of York River—it is a separate one—it will consist of upwards of 3000 men, exclusive of what will be added in regulars Militia or dragoons—no body can object to this arrangement, and you will greatly forward the interests of one who thinks himself intitled to the Name of your best friend.
                  When I propose it, my dear General, it is because I know your Heart is disposed to favor any arrangement that may be to my advantage—because the service you would render to me is immense—and because it cannot hurt any body’s pretensions or feelings.
                  I request, my dear General, this may be a secret betwen us, and at all events I will be persuaded you have done the best you could for your friend

                     Lafayette


Title: To George Washington from James McHenry, 30 September 1781
From: McHenry, James
To: Washington, George

                     Sir
                     Camp Virginia 30 Sepr 1781

                  Having been elected one of the Senate for the State of Maryland I beg leave to resign the rank of Major which I hold in the army of the United States.  With the greatest respect I have the honor to be Sir Your Excellency’s most ob. St

                     James McHenry


Title: From George Washington to George Weedon, 30 September 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Weedon, George

                  Dear Sir,

                     Camp before York 30th Septemr 1781

                  I have just received your Favor of Yesterday—Last Night the Enemy evacuated their exteriour Works,&  left us in  Possession of Pigeon Quarter, & some other Works which they had occupied, contracting their Defences near the Town.This Circumstance has created a Jealousy in some Minds similar to what you mention—that Ld Cornwallis may throw himself with his Troops upon the Gloster Side,& endeavour by a rapid movement to attempt an Escape—I can hardly perswade myself that this will be his Policey—he ought to be watched however on every point—You will therefore pay the utmost Attention to all their Movements which can fall under your Eye—approachg as near as you can with Safety & prudence, so as not to hazard too much—In Case any Intention of an Escape should be discovered, you will give me the most instantaneous Information—send immediate Notice to the Inhabitants to remove from this probable Rout, all the Cattle & Horses that can be of any Use—And at the same Time, give every Impediment to their March that you possibly can—that I may have Time to throw my Army in their Front.
                  I am this Day informed that some Troops are crossing the River to Glousster—whether this is to replace a Corps of Germans wh. are said to have come from that side Yesterday or for some other purpose I can not say—three Boats with men, I saw cross myself. I am Dear Sir Your Most Obet Servt

                     Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Stark, September 1781
From: Stark, John
To: Washington, George

                     Dear General

                        ? September 1781

                  Since my last, nothing extraordinary has turned up in this department, except seven deserters, who shall be sent to you as soon as possible; and a few tories that have been taken on the frontiers.  I inclose you a copy of a letter found with one of them, and am in hopes, by this time, that the writer is a prisoner likewise.
                  I am informed that forty-seven of the enemy’s Indians are coming down here to make a treaty with us, while their young men are cutting our throats.  I think, until their insolence is chastised in a severe manner, we never can expect peace in this quarter.  The bearer of this, Major Guather, has found fifty-five shells, twelve boxes musket balls, one vise, and one pair hand-screws in the river near Saratoga.  It is reported that the enemy sunk some cannon in the river.  I should think a farther search would be necessary, but, by reason of the scarcity of men, it has been neglected.  I am, sir, &c., &c.,

                     John Stark.


Title: General Orders, 1 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                     Head Quarters before York Monday October 1st 1781
                     Parole France
                     C Signs Spain America

                  Officers for the day Tomorrow
                  Brigadier General WayneColonel StewartLt Col. HuntingtonB. M. AorsonThe health of the troops is an object of such infinite importance that every possible attention ought to be paid to the preservation of it.
                  The Quarter Master General is directed to use effectual Measures to obtain a quantity of Straw sufficient for the men to lodge upon.
                  The Commissaries will endeavour to keep up a constant supply of Rum which is in that case to be issued at the rate of One Gill per man daily.
                  It is expected that bread of a good quality will be furnished by Mr Ludwick superintendant of the Bakers, nearly sufficient for the Army and the Commanding Officers of Corps are called upon to see that their men are duly supplied with Provisions on all occasions; and particularly whenever ordered on fatigue or any other duty.
                  Colonels and Commanding Officers of Corps are also requested to have as many of their men present with their Corps as possible: if any who are fit for duty are absent at Williamsburgh or any other place in the vicinity an officer ought to be sent to bring them on immediately.
                  A General Court Martial of which Col. Dayton is appointed President will assemble Tomorrow at ten oClock A.M. at the Judge Advocates Marque, about a thousand yards south East of the Bridge over beaver dam Creek for the tryal of Captain Duffy of the 4th regiment of Artillery, and such other persons as may come before them—Lt Colonel Antill, Major Bauman, one Captain from the Artillery—two from Muhlenburghs, two from Hazens—one from Waynes, two from Daytons, One from Gists and one from the York Brigades will attend as Members.
                  All evidences and persons concerned to attend—an orderly serjeant from each Division will be sent to the Court.
                  Accurate Returns of the Continental Troops and Militia in Camp to be given in at the Adjutant Generals Office Tomorrow at orderly time.
                  For Picquet this night the third Maryland regiment, to parade at five OClock in the rear of the works and receive their orders from the General Officer of the day.  Covering party General Waynes Brigade to parade at the same time.  Fatigue Tommorrow General Clintons Division to parade at the times and places directed yesterday.
                  Two Captains four subs six serjeants and one hundred rank & file from General Muhlenburghs Brigade for fatigue to parade in front of the Maryland Regiments at six oClock Tomorrow morning and take directions from the Quarter Master General.


Title: From George Washington to François-Joseph-Paul, comte de Grasse-Tilly, 1 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Grasse-Tilly, François-Joseph-Paul, comte de

                     Sir,
                     Before York Octr 1st 1781

                  I should have had the honour of acknowledging sooner the note which Your Excellency transmitted by the Marquis de lafayette—but an expectation of being able to accompany my answer with interesting intelligence induced me to defer it to the present moment.  With regard to the Station which Your Excellency has determined for the Main-fleet, the reasons which you are pleased to communicate prove that it unites all advantages—and inspire the greatest confidence in the accomplishment of its object.
                  I have only one proposition to submit to Your Excellency on the subject of naval dispositions—and the objects of it are too essential not to be exposed to Your Excellency in their fullest light—I mean the stationing two or three Ships above the Enemys posts on York R. for want of this only means of completing the investment of their works—the british remain masters of the navigation for 25 Miles distance above them, and have by their armed Vessels intercepted supplies of the greatest value on their way to our Camp—The loss is redoubled by diminishig our means and augmentg those of the enemy—at a most critical time.
                  We are even necessitated for the protection of Williamsburg, and the magazines in our rear to leave a post of seven or eight hundred men in that Quarter—a diminution of our force that in present circumstances we can but illy support—but unless this detachment is made, the Enemy might in the greatest security land above Queens Creek to cover his left Flank, and by a very short march effect the most destructive purposes, while the circuitous march which we, from the nature of the Country, shd be obliged to make, wd render it impossible to arrive in time to prevent or punish him—We are besides reduced to the impossibility of concerting measures with the Corps of troops at Gloucester—being obliged in order to communicate with them, to make a circuit of near ninety miles—whereas in the other case it would be both easy and expeditious.  But what is still a more decisive consideration, is that Ld Cornwallis has, by the River York, an outlet for his retreat, and that he may by embracing a leading Wind & Tide, and stealing a march proceed unmolested to West point—where upon debarking his troops he will have the Pamunky on one flank and the Mattapony on the other, and that finally he may by mounting the greatest part of his men and successive forced marches—push his way with a compact disciplined Army thro a Country whose population is too scattered to be collected for sudden opposition and make it impossible for us to overtake him: many people are of opinion that Lord Cornwallis will embrace this as the only means of safety—and it is certain that unless the investment is completed as above mentioned, he will have it in his power either now or in a last extremity.
                  Governor Nelson proposes to obviate the abuses which may have prevailed relatively to passports by sending a proper person to reside on board the Ville to Paris, or any other vessel your Excelly may appoint, with instructions to point out which are legal and genuine—The present position of the fleet and Army perfectly secures us against every enterprise on the part of the Enemy, in James River.
                  Upon the whole I can assure Your Excellency that this seems to be the only point in which we are defective—the Enemy has already abandoned all his exterior works and withdrawn himself altogether to the body of the place—& given us great advantages for opening the Trenches.  The Engineers have had a near & satisfactory view of his works, without interruption—and we have most to apprehend Ld Cornwallis’s escape.
                  For these reasons I earnestly entreat that Your Excellency will be pleased to authorise and enjoin the Commanding Officer of the Ships in York River—to concert measures with me for the purpose abovementioned—in this case an additional Ship may be necessary to remain at the mouth of the River—The Experiment and two frigates if Your Exclley thinks proper would be best calculated for the station above.
                  If upon a mature examination of the passage it should appear too great a risk for the Ships—I wd at least sollicit Your Excellency that the Vessels might advance higher up the River and take a more menacing position with respect to the Enemy on our right—but I must confess to Your Excellency that I am so well satisfied by experience of the little effect of land batteries on Vessels passing them with a leading breeze that unless the two Channels near York shd be found impracticable by obstructions—that I should have the greatest confidence in the success of this important service.
                  Your Excellencys approbation of this measure wd supersede the necessity of a defence against fire Ships—but the nature of the river besides renders it physically impossible to form an obstruction of the kind proposed.
                  With regard to the Hospital at Hampton I have desired Governor Nelson to appoint a person of weight and influence in that town to charge himself with the whole business of procuring large and convenient public edifices or others for the accommodation of the sick, and every succour that the nature of the country & our circumstances will afford—The same person will undertake the supply of the sick in the several articles enumerated in the Note—The name of the person appointed is  Ray Esqr.
                  I have requested Govr Nelson to write to him in such terms as will excite his most zealous exertions in a service so interesting to humanity, to us, & to our friends.
                  As soon as the heavy artillery is debarked a business in which we are diligently occupied—the transports shall be dispatched to Your Excellency—It is unhappily impossible for this part of the Continent to afford Your Excellency a single sailor—the Commerce of it previous to the War having been conducted by Scotch Mariners who are no longer with us—I have only to regret that no exertions cd procure your Excellency an assistance which you wish so much.  In answer to the third Article, I beg leave to observe to Your Excellency that the british prisoners at Hampton would interfere with the Hospital—that it wd be preferable to leave your sick intirely in possession of it—and to send the prisoners to Baltimore—the Officers on their parole—and the privates to be secured in Fort Frederick, which will greatly facilitate the supplying of them with provisions by the french Commsy.

                  Your Excellency may rest assured that no time will be lost in transmitting you regular accounts of every thing that may deserve your notice—it is with peculiar satisfaction that I inclose you the Extract No. 1 from the president’s Letter.  I entreat you to accept my warmest felicitations upon this occasion, and the sincerity with which I share your feelings on this glorious advantage.The Taffia which Your Excellency is so good as to propose, will be very acceptable and flour will be thankfully given in exchange for the Rum at Annapolis.
                  With regard to the powder altho my present circumstances do not require an immediate supply; it may eventually be wanting, in which case I shall be glad to avail myself of Your Excellys goodness.I have likewise the honour of inclosing you No. 2 & No. 3 Letters intercepted in an Enemy’s  Vessel off Cape Chares.  I entreat your Excellency to accept the sentiments of respectful attachment with which I have.

                     P.S.  When I was closing the within letter, I received that with which Yr Excy hond me on the 27th Ulto; at the same time that I express all my sensibility for your goodness in granting the detachment of 800 men from the Garrisons of Yr Ships—give me leave to assure Your Excellency that the request was founded upon what appeared to me the evident good of the service and that I shd be the first dissentient from any measure that cd possibly commit the honor of your fleet or that of Yr Excelly which is as dear to me as my own.
                     I entreat you to accept my best thanks for the communication of your sentiments on the plan to be pursued by us Shd Ld Cornwallis attempt his Retreat by way of Gloucester—but Yr Excelly will perceive by the letter already refer’d to that my principal apprehension is the possibility of his escape by going up York River—the nature of the Country dictates this as the most eligible measure, shd he determine to save his army by a Sudden evacuation of the place.
                     You will add to the many obligations I already feel myself under to Yr Excelly, by honoring me with your sentiments on any part of our operations, that you may be so good as to think of—I shall esteem myself particularly happy to avail myself of your experience and knowledge.
                     I shd be grieved for the reasons Yr Excelly is apprized of that a too limited time shd cause a failure in the present Enterprise—the perfect confidence of the Kg & the Ministry in your Excelly and the success with which you must always use a discretionary power is our only dependance—If Your Excelly will point out which is the part from whence you wd preferably draw the Supplies you mention, I will instantly use my utmost efforts to facilitate your obtaining them—the Eastern Shore of Virginia & Maryland must abound in provisions—I am perfectly of opinion that the Vessels which yr Excelly mentions may be spared from James River—while your fleet continues strictly to guard the Entrance of the bay.
                     It is a pleasure to renew the assurances of respect and attachment with which I have the honr.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas McKean, 1 October 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McKean, Thomas

                     SirHead Quarters Camp before York 1st Octo. 1781.

                  Last Evening I was honored with your Excellencys Favor of the 21st ulto with its Inclosure—The Intelligence it contains respectg the British Fleet, is very agreable, & will be imediately transmitted to the Count de Grasse.
                  In my last, which bore Date the 23d ulto I informed, that our Preparations for a near Investment of the Enemy at York, were fast ripening to a Point—I have now to acquaint your Excellency, that I marched from Williamsburg with the whole Army, on the 28th and approached within about two Miles of the Enemy at York—at which Distance a Shew was made of some Opposition on our Left, But, upon the Count Rochambeau, who Commands that Part of the Army, his Moving a few peices of field Artillery under the Direction of the Baron Viominil, & giving a few Shots, the Enemy retired—On the 29th the American Troops moved forward & took their Ground in front of the Enemy’s Works on their Left no Opposition, except a few scattered Shots from a small Work, by Moor’s Mill, on Wormleys Creek & a Battery on the Left of Pigeon Quarter—A small fire all Day from our Rifle Men & the Enemy’s Jagers—30th—in the Morng we discovered, that the Enemy had evacuated all their Exterior Line of Works, & withdrawn themselves to those near the Body of the Town—By this Means we are in possession of very advantageous Grounds, which command in a very near Advance, almost the whole Remaing Line of their Defence.  All the Expedition that our Circumstances will admit, is using, to bring up our heavy Artillery & Stores, & to open our Batteries—this Work I hope will be executed in a few Days, when our Fire will begin with great Vigor.
                  The Investment of the Enemy is now fully compleated, & drawn very near their Lines, except on the River above the Town, where their Communication is still open—to prevent this & to compleat the Blockade, a Request is gone to the Count de Grasse, desiring him, to push, if he thinks it practicable, One or more Ships above the Town—this if effected will answer, many very valuable Purposes—The Position of the Count de Grasse, is judiciously taken: the Main fleet keeping their Station in Lynn Haven Bay &Detachments made to secure the Rivers—the Determination of the Count, is favorably disposed to comply with our Wishes in every necessary Cooperation.
                  I shall continue to keep Congress advised of such Occurrences as are worthy the Communication—With the Highest Regard & Esteem I have the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and most humle Servant

                     Go: Washington