Title: To George Washington from Mordecai Gist, 24 November 1780
From: Gist, Mordecai
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir,
                            Baltimore 24 November 1780

                        Your favor of the 13th Instant came to hand Yesterday. Our Assembly have ever since my last been unhappily
                            engag’d in a dispute respecting the power of the House of Delegates, to call their members to the Bar to Answer for
                            Misdemeanours committed out of the House during the Sessions parties ran high, and the Members were much inflamed on the
                            case of Mr James Hindman, who was called to the Bar for speaking freely of the public character of Mr Sam. Chase and
                            other Members in a Tavern: Mr Hindman refusing to make the concesions directed by the House was put in custody of the
                            Serjeant at Arms where he still remains.
                        A Committee of the House is now sitting on the requisition of Genl Greene a Copy of which I have the Honor to
                            enclose you, as also a copy of my letter to them on that Subject. I flatter myself from the disposition of some of the
                            Committee that a report will be made Similar to the Measures proposed, & that it will meet the concurrence of
                            the House.I send your Excellency also a return of the Troops from this state, serving in the Southern department, with a
                            copy of Major General Greens requisition to the Delaware state to which place I shall proceed agreeable to my Orders to
                            press its speedy & effectual execution. I have the Honor to be With perfect Respect & Esteem Yr
                            Excellencys Mo. Obdt Servant

                            M. Gist

                     Enclosure

                                Sir,

                                    c.10 November 1780

                            It Appears by the last returns of our Troops that the State of Maryland want 1951 Men exclusive of the
                                State Regiment to Compleat their quota agreable to the Establishment made by Congress the 21st Ult. I beg leave to
                                Offer a few thoughts on a plan for raising them which I submit to the consideration of the Committee with every
                                sentiment of deference, and respect.
                            Suppose the number of Inhabitants in the State to be 30,000 that Number divided into 2,000 Classes will
                                give 15 Men to each, the property in each of those Classes to be proportion’d as equal as possible and each Class
                                calld on to furnish One Man by a fix’d period of time, to serve during the War. Otherwise to be subjected to a Draught
                                every Recruit or Substitute so furnished should continue in his Regiment as the representative of that Class during
                                the War, and in case of Death Desertion &c. the Class whose Representative he was Shall furnish another in
                                his place on report of the Commanding Officer, who shall transmit the name of such Soldier, Specifying the County he
                                did belong to, to the Governor & Council of the State who shall require the Lieutenant of such County to Order
                                such Classes to furnish another Man within one Month from the date of such requisition, or become Subject to a Draught
                                as Afsd.
                            by this Plan we may always count upon 2,000 Men in the Field, agreeable to the present Establishment Five
                                Commission’d Officers & five drums & fifes must remain in the State to Recruit these may be constantly
                                employed in adding to the 2000 Draughts by voluntary Enlistments, and in receiveing such deficiencies of Men as the
                                Lieutts of the Counties may be calld on for. it will also engage every Citizen to be equally interested in the Success
                                of Our Arms or event of an Action, and prevent the Inequitous practice of furnishing bad Men for the Army, in whose
                                Services or Integrity no Confidence can be Placed. The recent examples of this practice and its Consequences are
                                evident in the Recruits raised for the State Regiment as the whole Number of Troops now in service by Virtue of the
                                last Draught Amount to no more than 381 Men large numbers having Deserted immediatly after the reception of the Bounty
                                Money and perhaps stand protected even by the Class who furnished them no Abuses of this kind can happen when each
                                Class are Obliged to continue their representative in the Field, as it will effectually prevent the harbouring and
                                concealing Deserters, give respectability to our Line and (I hope) general Satisfaction to the good people of the
                                State.
                            I shall think myself happy if in this essay I have Offered any thing that may throw a light on the
                                Important Subject now under your Consideration. Permit me to Assure you that I am with perfect Respect and Esteem Sir
                                Your Most Obdt Servt

                                M. Gist
                            (Copy)

                     Enclosure

                                November 10th 1780

                            1st That the State complete their Five Regiments of Infantry agreeable to the establishment made by
                                Congress, the 21st of September, as soon as possible.
                            2dly That they Cloath, Arm and Equip them fit for actual service. The Arms will be replaced as soon as
                                they can be forwarded from the Eastern States.
                            3dly That they immediatly furnish One hundred good road Waggons with four Horses a Waggoner and Harness
                                complete to Each.
                            4thy That the State immediatly furnish Sixty good dragoon Horses for Major Lee’s Legion. These horses must
                                be of the best kind, or they will be unsuitable for the Service they are Intended.
                            5thly That the State immediatly raise twenty two Men to serve in the Corps of Artificers, of whom ten
                                should be Carpenters six Blacksmiths four Wheelwrights and two harness makers.
                            6thly That they furnish immediatly One Thousand Pounds in specie for the purpose of procuring
                                Intelligence.
                            7thly That the State give every necessary Aid to the D  Quarter Master for the State, in forwarding all
                                Stores for the Southern Army upon his application.

                     Enclosure

                                    c.10 November 1780

                            Requisition made to the State of Delaware for the use of the Southern Army (Copy)
                            1st That the State immediatly fill up their Regiments agreeable to the establishment of October 21st and
                                that they Cloath, Arm, and Equip them for a winters campaign, and furnish them with tents knapsacks and canteens.
                            2dly That the State furnish forty good road Waggons with a driver four Horses and harness complete to
                                each.
                            3dly That the State furnish twenty Artificers to join those belonging to the Southern Army and they be of
                                the following Occupation ten Carpenters, four blacksmiths, four wheelwrights, one Sadler and One harness maker.
                            4thly That they furnish immediatly Two thousand Pounds in Specie or the Value thereof for use of the
                                Military chest in the Southern Department.


Title: From George Washington to Stephen Moylan, 24 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Moylan, Stephen

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters 24th November 1780

                        Circumstances render the command upon which you were ordered unneccessary—You will therefore dismiss the
                            party—sending off the inclosed by trusty and well mounted Dragoons. That to Captain Alden at Dobbs’s ferry requires
                            particular dispatch. I shall expect your Company at dinner. I am, &c.

                            G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 24 November 1780
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Newport November 24th 1780

                        The Intelligence that your Excellency gives me of the arrival of the cork fleet in your Letter of the 16th,
                            is so much the more likely, that the day before yesterday nine vessels were seen entering Gardner’s bay, coming down the
                            Sound, It is thought they were bringing victuals, and that they very likely are a party of the above fleet, which I think
                            would be a proof that Arbuthnot proposes wintering in that excellent Harbour. We have had all
                            this month a most tempestuous weather and I was a great deal concerned for the Troops of your Excellency, if they be yet
                            encamped. I am with Respect Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant

                            le Cte de Rochambeau


Title: To George Washington from Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von] Steuben, 24 November 1780
From: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von]
To: Washington, George

                            sir
                            Richmond (Virginia) 24 Novr 1780

                        Your Excellency has no doubt, heard before this time, of the Departure of the Enemy from Portsmouth; as
                            Governor Jefferson in his Letter informs you of all the circumstances of this Retreat, I will refer you to it for
                            particulars.
                        I am now hastening, as much as possible, the Departure of General Lawrens Corps for the Southward. It consists
                            of about 200 Horse and 300 Infantry, Inlisted till the end of February next. This Corps is the only one that is properly
                            equipt for the Campaign.
                        I expect Generals Muhlenberg & Weedon here to day, to make with them the necessary Arrangements, to
                            send to Carolina at least 800 Infantry, so that including Lee’s Corps, which I expect every Day, I will endeavor to
                            reinforce General Greene with 12 or 1500 Men as soon as possible.
                        The deranged state of our Finances has had the same Effect in this State, as in the others, all the wheels of
                            the Machine are Stopt, and all the Departments in the greatest Confusion.
                        The Invasion of this State has occasiond enormous Expences; particularly in the collecting
                            the Militia; all the State as well as continental Store here have been exhausted to supply them. I will do all in my power
                            to recover and collect all those articles which the Southern Army stands so much in need of. I have made a representation
                            to the Government of this State, to engage them to dismiss the Militia as soon as possible, in order to save Expences.
                        I am now establishing 5 Miles above the Falls of James River, a Continental Laboratory. I will employ in it a
                            Body of Artificer which were sent here By the Board of War in September last, and which, for want of Money and Means, have
                            been kept hitherto unemployed. I am with great respect Your Excellencys most Obedient Servant

                            steuben


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 24 November 1780
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Fairfield Novr 24th 1780 6 OClock A.M.

                        I take this earliest opportunity to inform your Excellency that I have returned from Long Island with the
                            Troops ordered for my Command. I have no time to be particular, as I have not yet obtained a Return of the Prisoners, or
                            the Articles taken at fort St George, near Smith’s house, they having not all arrived at this Place As I am sure your
                            Excellency must be concerned for the Detachmt having never heard from us since the Commd was ordered, this must serve to
                            inform you that your Excellency’s orders of the 11th inst. have been most punctually executed and with very little loss on
                            our Part. I have the honor to be &c.

                            B. Tallmadge

                            N.B. The original was dated the 25th thro’ mistake.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 25 November 1780
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia, November 25, 1780

                        Your Excellency will receive herewith enclosed, the Copy of an Act of Congress of the 24th Instant &
                            another of this Day.
                        By the former, the Director of the Hospitals is ordered to repair to Head Quarters & put himself
                            under the Orders of the Commander in Chief.
                        By the latter, all the Artificers in Pennsylvania are to be removed to Carlisle and in future only an issuing
                            Store & an Elaboratory kept in Philadelphia; and you are desired to detach a field Officer of Artillery to take
                            Command and superintend the Business at Carlisle under the Order of the Board of War—I have the Honor to be with the
                            highest Respect & Esteem Your Excellency’s most obedient & humble servant

                            Sam. Huntington President


Title: From George Washington to John Sullivan, 25 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

                            Dr Sir,
                            Hd Qrs Passaic Falls Novr 25th 1780

                        This Letter will be presented to you by the Chevr De Chattelleaux, a Majr Genl in the French Service—a
                            Gentn of polite and easy manners, and of literary as well as military abilities.
                        I intended in my last (but having Spun my letter to an enormous length, deferred it) to have observed that
                            as Congress had made one or two late promotions from Brigadiers to Major Generals, apparently on the principle of a state—proportion (which by the way, if made a general rule I am persuaded will be found hurtful). An idea has occurred to me,
                            that possibly from the same principle on a future occasion, one might take place which would be particularly injurious—I
                            mean with respect to General Knox—Generals Parsons & Clinton have been superseded by Smallwood—Parson’s is since
                            restored to his Rank. Except Clinton Knox now stands first on the list—If from the consideration I have mentioned or
                            from his being at the head of the artillery he should be overlooked, and a younger officer preferred, he will undoubtedly
                            quit the service; and you know his usefulness too well not to be convinced this would be an injury difficult to be
                            repaired—I do not know all things considered, who could replace him in his department. I am sure if a question of this
                            kind should be agitated when you were present, this intimation would be unnecessary to induce you to interpose; but lest
                            you should be absent at the time, I think it would be adviseable to apprise some other members in whom you have
                            confidence to guard against it—Perhaps indeed for sores occd by irregular promotions or mistakes, tho they may afterwards
                            receive a plaister does not always meet a cure but proves that inattention or want of information was the cause of the
                            wound.
                        If the sentiments containd in my letter to Congress of this date respecting the Inspectorate department are
                            happy enough to coincide with yours, I have no doubt of your giving them a proper support—To me it appears a matter of
                            importance to keep the present Inspectors in Office, and sure I am, that it is the true interest & policy of Congress
                            to make these Offices more the object of desire by the Officers who fill them than of favor from them, in the one case
                            the duties will be discharged properly—In the other they may be slighted or not executed at all. the additional pay
                            necesy to make it adeqe to the trouble & confinemt incident to the Office would be Very trifling, & the
                            future one nothing as they will not burthen the half pay list; being Officers in the line & receiving half pay
                            accordingly & no other. With great esteem and regd, I am, Dr Sir Yr Most Ob. Serv.

                            G. W----n


Title: General Orders, 26 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Totowa Sunday November 26th 1780
                            Parole
                            Countersigns
                            Watchword

                        For the day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Huntington
                        Colonel Chambers
                        Lieutenant Colonel Newall
                        Major T. Ll: Moore
                        Brigade Major Ashley
                        The Army will march tomorrow morning—The General will beat at nine—The Assemblé at half past nine and the
                            march will commence precisely at ten. The Quarter Master General will furnish the route and order of march.
                        The Troops are to draw and carry three days bread or flour as there are not Waggons for the Purpose.
                        The light corps is dissolved. The several companies will return to their respective regiments.
                        The General presents his thanks to the Marquis de la Fayette and to the officers and men under his command
                            for the excellent order and soldierly disposition which have been conspicuous in the corps. He regrets that opportunities
                            did not offer to avail himself of that Zeal and Ardor which in this Corps and in the Army at large afforded the strongest
                            assurance of Success—Nor can he forbear remarking that this Campaign as well as the former has exhibited proofs of the
                            Patience and Patriotism of the Troops in cheerfully supporting those wants and distresses which the peculiar situation of
                            our country has at different times rendered inevitable.
                        The Light Companies of the New Hampshire, Rhode Island and New York regiments sending off their baggage with
                            that of the Massachusetts and Connecticutt companies will march themselves by a route which will be given them by the
                            Marquis de la Fayette.
                        The Light companies of the Jersey line will take charge of the boats at Dobbs’s, and receive orders at Head
                            Quarters.
                        Major Parr’s corps of rifle men will move with the Pennsylvania division, but will remain a seperate corps
                            and will be attentive to keeping their Rifles in good order.
                        After Orders.
                        The Van Guard will parade on the left of the 4th Massachusett’s Brigade at nine ô clock tomorrow morning
                            precisely.
                        The Rear Guard to be formed on the Grand Parade at ten.
                        Brigadier General Huntington with Lieutenant Colonel Newall to command the former and Colonel Nixon with
                            Lieutenant Colonel Littlefield the latter.


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 26 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 26th Novembr 1780

                        I have recd your favors of the 18th and 21st. When the Army gets together and settled in Winter Quarters, I
                            intend to make some general Regulations respecting the troops receiving Flour or Bread, in the mean time, they may
                            continue to dress in the manner they have been accustomed to do.
                        You will be pleased to order the New York line to the same position which that of New Hampshire has taken,
                            where they are to Hut adjoining to them. One of the Regiments moving more to the left, so as to occupy the Ground near
                            Robinsons Mills, which will serve to cover the other pass of the Mountain.
                        Hazens Regt is to move to Fishkill, where it will lay this Winter and do the duties of that post.
                        The Massachusetts and Connecticut lines will march the moment the Weather will permit, and as the Jersey line
                            is to take post this Winter in the Neighbourhood of Pompton—you will put them under marching orders, that they may be
                            ready to come down to Kings ferry upon the day which the Massachusetts troops will arrive there, and take advantage of
                            their returning Waggons to transport their Baggage. You shall be informed on what day that will be. I am with great Esteem
                            Dear Sir Your most obt Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 26 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Prackness Novembr 26th 1780

                        I have the honor to Acknowledge your Excellency’s letters of the 16th and 17th inst. I am much obliged to you
                            for the intelligence transmitted from Governor Jefferson.
                        It is not in my power, at this time, to furnish the return required of the Officers of the Engineering
                            department—I wait the arrival of General Du Portail—after which it shall be immediately forwarded.
                        I have not yet published, to the Army, the New Plan for the Inspectors department. The delay has given time
                            to know the sentiments of the Officers concerned. They all think the extra-provision inadequate to the extra trouble—if it
                            is not increased, I beleive most of the best of them will leave the office, and it will not be possible to find others,
                            who have necessary qualifications, willing to replace them. As this institution has been found of singular utility—I am
                            afraid to see it deranged. I therefore take the liberty to mention the matter to Congress, that they may consider the
                            propriety of an augmentation of the allowance, before an experiment is made of the establishment.
                        The Inspector General being absent, a derangement, at this time, would be more particularly injurious, and it
                            would be severely felt at the commencement of the next Campaign, when we shall again have the greatest part of the Army
                            recruits. When we consider, that to former extensive duties of the Inspectorship are now added those of the Mustering
                            department the officers of which have been, in consequence, abolished, it will appear consonant both with œconomy and
                            equity to enlarge the compensation—Though not extravagant, it would be desireable to have it so liberal as to be a motive
                            with good Officers to undertake and continue.
                        As the subinspector will have a principal part of the drudgery, the extra allowance to him requires most to
                            be augmented, to become an equivalent. ’Tis not necessary there should be any material difference between his and that of
                            the Inspector—The Office of Adjutant General and Assistant Inspector General is peculiarly laborious.
                        In the new Arrangement of the Army, no notice has been taken of the Corps of Maréchaussee, as this Corps is
                            upon a particular constitution, I imagine it was not intended to comprehend it among the corps to be reduced—I shall be
                            happy to be informed on this subject—Its continuance appears to me necessary for a variety of useful purposes—As the
                            States are to be credited for the men in these distinct Corps the keeping it on foot will not add to the quota of any.
                        The death of that useful and valuable Officer, Mr Erskine, Geographer to the Army, makes it requisite that a
                            successor should be appointed. I beg leave to recommend Mr Simeon De Witt, an assistant of his. His being in the
                            department gives him a pretension, and his abilities a still better. From the character Mr Erskine always gave of him and
                            from what I have seen of his performances, he seems to be extremely well qualified. I have the honor to be With the
                            greatest respect and Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt humbe servt

                             Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Jefferson, 26 November 1780
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Richmond November 26th 1780

                        I have been honoured with your Excellency’s Letter of the 8th instant having found it impracticable to move
                            suddenly the whole Convention troops, british and germans, and it being represented that there coud not immediately be
                            covering provided for them all at fort Frederick we concluded to march of the British first from whom
                            was the principal danger of desertion and to permit the germans who shew little disposition to join the enemy to remain in
                            their present quarters till something further be done. the British accordingly marched on the 20th instant, they cross the
                            blue ridge at the Rockfish gap and proceed along that valley. I am to apprize your Eccellency that the Officers of every
                            rank both British and german but particularly the former have purchased within this State some of the finest horses in it.
                            You will be pleased to determine whether it will be proper that they carry them within their Lines. I believe the
                            convention of Saratoga entitles them to keep the horses they then had, but I presume none of the Line below the rank of
                            field officers had a horse. Considering that the british will be now at fort frederic, and the Germans in Albemarle.
                            Alexandria seems to be the most central point to which there is navigation. would it not therefore be better that the flag
                            vessel solicited by Genl Philips shoud go to that place? it is about equally distant from the two ports. the roads to
                            Albemarle are good. I know not how those are which lead to fort frederick. your letter referring me to General Green for
                            the mode of constructing light portable boats unfortunately did not come to hand till he had left us. we had before
                            determined to have something done in that way, and as they are still unexecuted, we shoud be greatly obliged by any
                            draughts or hints which could be given by any body within the reach of your Excellency.
                        I received advice that on the 22nd instant the enemy’s fleet got all underway and were standing towards the
                            Capes. as it still remained undecided whether they woud leave the bay or turn up it, I waited the next stage of
                            information that you might so far be enabled to judge of their destination. this I hourly expected, but it did not come
                            till this evening when I am informed they all got out to sea in the night of the 22d what course they steered afterwards
                            is not known. I must do their General and Commodore the justice to say that in every case to which their influence or
                            attention coud reach as far as I have been well informed, their conduct was such as does them the greatest honor. in the
                            few instances of unnecessary and wanton devastation, which took place, they punished the aggressors. I have the honor to
                            be with every sentiment of esteem & respect Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant

                            Th: Jefferson


Title: To George Washington from John Sullivan, 26 November 1780
From: Sullivan, John
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Philadelphia Novemr 26th 1780

                        I am honored with your Excellencys Favor of the 20th Instant—and feel myself under the greatest obligation
                            for your obliging Condescension in Consenting to a Continuation of my Letters.
                        Sensible of your Situation & Course of Business I feared to write Lest your Politeness Should Divert
                            your attention from important matters & Lead you to answer Even where an Answer appeared unnecessary. But I now
                            take the Liberty of assuring you that I Shall not Expect Frequent or Lengthy answers. When the Nature of my Letter
                            requires & your Liesure will permit I Shall promise myself an answer & not otherwise.
                        I Shall take the Liberty of Informing your Excellency from time to time of Those Points which Turn up in
                            Congress & are interesting to the Publick in General or the Army in Particular & Shall Continue This
                            without Expecting regular or Frequent answers.
                        I am happy that the Late Regulations are Pleasing to your Excellency; & with you Lament that They
                            were not Sooner adopted: But I can with great Truth assure you that they are not now the offspring of Choice but necessity
                            which perhaps has been Lately Painted in more Striking Colors & has been more realized than formerly.
                        I am Sensible of the injurious Consequences of Sending out requisitions at so Late a Period But I flatter
                            myself That The States will yield a Chearful & Speedy Compliance as I have Seen An Act from Connecticut and
                            Answers from other States which promise much toward a Speedy Supply.
                        I will Endeavor to have it mentioned in Colo. Palfreys Instructions to obtain materials in preference to
                            ready made Cloathes for the reasons you mention. Colo. Palfrey is appointed Consul & Commercial agent.
                        The means you have been pleased to point out are Fortunately Adopted. Congress have in the most Decent
                            & at the Same time in the most pressing Terms Solicited a Loan & I have Long Since without the knowledge
                            of Congress Solicited the French Minister and Mr Marbois to favor the application which they have already Done by writing
                            to the French Court warmly in favor of it.
                        I am fully Sensible of the Evils arising in the Cloathing Department, a report is now on the Table for
                            regulating it; which I hope will pass this week—The mode you mention for future Provisions I hope will be Adopted. We
                            have had Cloathing Sufficient for the Army at Cape Francois Eighteen months & a Sufficiency on the Shores of
                            France Since April Last; & we have had a number of Frigates Employed in useless
                            adventures. This Clearly proves the Justice of your observation respecting The attention of Congress being Taken up
                            in Trivial affairs while great Nations Concerns have been Neglected. Several attempts have been made toward a reformation,
                            but to no purpose. You might almost as Soon Teach the Streams to run back to their Sources as perswade Congress out of
                            Their Ancient Tract. I have the honor to be with all possible respect yr Excellys most obedt Servt

                             Jno. Sullivan


Title: From George Washington to Charles, marquis de La Rouërie Armand Tuffin, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Armand Tuffin, Charles, marquis de La Rouërie

                            Dr Sir,
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 27th Novemr 1780

                        I have received your letter of the 21st instant—The opinion I have of your services and merit would make me
                            chearfully give my influence to the accomplishment of your wishes, were I not persuaded that it would be attended with
                            inconveniences—I cannot enter into the motives that have produced the promotions you speak of—I am sensible that by a
                            comparison of your situation with that of the French officers in general, your claim is well founded; but the
                            circumstances of our service now are very different from what they were at an earlier period, and many things have been
                            done, which could not be admitted as a rule of present practice, without being not a little prejudicial.
                        I shall be really sorry if you should think it necessary to withdraw your self from the service on account of
                            the ill-success of your application to Congress; You know the estimation in which I hold your talents and usefulness—If
                            you continue you may assure yourself that I shall do what depends on me to make your command honorable and agreeable.
                        In addition to this, as I am persuaded, you will always maintain the same place in my esteem which you now
                            possess, when you determine finally to return home, I shall take the liberty to recommend to Congress the promotion you
                            desire. I approve the appointment of Mr Penet to a Lieutenancy in your legion, which must be confirmed by Congress before
                            it can take place. I am with very great esteem & regard Yr most Obedt ser.


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

                        Dear Sir,

                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 27th Novemr 1780.

                        I take the liberty of inclosing your Excellency an extract of a letter which I have just received from Colo.
                            Hay, and of assuring you at the same time that the prospects of the Army, especially that part of it which is to winter in
                            the Highlands, were never so alarming in respect to the want of Bread, as at this time. We carry with us, from this
                            ground, tomorrow, every pound which the Commy General is possessed of, and I cannot learn from him, that he has a single
                            Barrel in Magazine in Pennsylvania or Jersey. I shall leave the Pennsylvania and Jersey Troops in Jersey to depend upon
                            precarious supplies from that State, and what may, in the course of the Winter, be brought from Pennsylvania, Delaware and
                            Maryland.
                        The mode proposed by Colo. Hay is, I confess, disagreeable, and what ought not to be practiced, but in
                            extremity—We seem to have arrived at that point; and if your Excellency views the thing in the same light that I do, I
                            cannot but hope that you will give a sanction to the measure, upon the footing which Colo. Hay has placed it, or upon some
                            other which will as effectually answer the end.
                        Did the season admit, of waiting till we saw whether a supply of Flour could not possibly be obtained from
                            the Southward, I should not be so sollicitous about the matter, but when it is considered that the first spell of bad
                            weather may render both the Rivers and mountains impassable, I think not a moment ought to be lost in adopting and
                            carrying into execution such measures as seem most likely to afford support to the Army in their intended Cantonments. The
                            difficulty which we had to keep it together last Winter, makes me dread a repetition of the same trial, this—if, to the
                            want of Cloathing and every comfort, that of provisions is added. I have the honor to be, with the warmest Sentiments of
                            Respect and Esteem Dear Sir your most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Christopher Greene, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Christopher

                            Sir,
                            Head Qrs Novr 27. 1780

                        It is probable you will receive The Count De Rochambeau’s orders to march, with your regiment to West Point.
                            Should this be the case, you will only come on with such officers as are to remain in service, on the new-arrangement and
                            such men as are engaged for the war, or at least for a term, that will last through the next campaign. The other men you
                            may dismiss, unless The Count De Rochambeau should find any employment, for them where they now are. In this you will
                            perceive it is presumed you have already agreed upon the arrangement. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt humble servant

                            Go: Washington

                            Since writing the above I have received your letter of the 18th.


Title: From George Washington to Udny Hay, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Hay, Udny

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters 27th Novemr 1780

                        I have recd your favs. of the 12th and 23d instants—I recommended Mr Hales case to the particular attention
                            of the Commy General who is at Philada and who I hope will have it in his power to make him compensation in Rum if not in
                            Money.
                        I have written to the Governor and have pointed out to him fully our distressed situation and the
                            consequences which much ensue if some such expedient as you have mentioned is not adopted—There is not a Barrel of Flour
                            in Magazine in Pennsylvania or Jersey, and if there were, it is at most too late to transport it from Delaware to the
                            North River—I shall probably be at New Windsor myself, by the time I receive the Governors answer, and if he approves, the
                            Men you require shall be furnished.
                        If any advantages result from putting up the Beef in the manner you propose I shall have no objection to your
                            doing it. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Passaic Falls 27th Novemr 1780

                        The Connecticut and Massachusetts troops will march from hence tomorrow and reach King’s Ferry on
                            Wednesday—at which time the Jersey troops will meet them there, and make use of their Waggons as far as Pompton, where
                            they will halt. The Commanding Officer will receive particular directions there respecting the position which he is to
                            take. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dr Sir
                            Hd Qrs Novr 27—80

                        I inclose you a letter to Col. Sheldon ordering him into Winter Quarters—You will be pleased to forward it
                            and make any arrangements that may be necessary in consequence of his removal. I am with great regard Yr most Obedt ser.

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. The Rhode Island Regiment may go to the position by Robinson’s Mills instead of a detachmt from
                                New Hampshire &ca.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 27 November 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Head Quarters West Point Novr 27th 80

                        I am honored with yours of the 26th, have ordered the New Jersey Line to hold itself in readiness to move on
                            the shortest notice—The New York Line to move over to the East side of Hudsons river; & hutt adjoining the New
                            Hampshire Line, except the strongest regiment, which is to hutt near Robinsons Mills; for the purpose mentioned. Colonel
                            Hazens Regiment is ordered to Fish Kill. In a former letter your Excellency was pleased to mention your intention, that
                            the Rhode Island regiment should hutt with the New Hampshire Line; if that is still your pleasure would it not be well to
                            put them in the barracks at the Continental Village, which may be repaired and the Cantonment at that place may be
                            advantageous on several accounts.
                        The Forragers are just returning have not yet crossed the river. They have brought off as much Corn &
                            hay as the waggons could remove. I have not had a return of the Cattle brought off but believe the number is not large.
                            The Inhabitants of the Country below are represented to be in a most wretched condition. I have the honor to be with the
                            greatest respect Your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant

                            W. Heath

                            P.S. The papers from Colonel Allen I received yesterday; he has forwarded them in consequence of an
                                application from me, the last summer, in Obedience to your Excellencys instructions to me before the arrival of the
                                Fleet and Army of our Illustrious Ally. I am at this moment honored with yours of this date shall conduct
                            accordingly.

                            W.H.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Howe, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

                            Sir,
                             27 November 1780

                        You will perceive by the order of March that you are to take the direction of the column which marches to
                            Kings ferry—You will proceed there accordingly—in the manner prescribed.and when you arrive send your baggage up by
                            water, marching the troops by land—to their respective cantonments the Connecticut line crossing the ferry will proceed up
                            the East side of the River—the Massachusetts line will proceed up the West side of the river to West Point. General Heath
                            will designate the particular distribution. Given at Head Quarters Nov. 27. 1780


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir,
                            Head Qrs Novr 27th 1780

                        I have the honor to introduce to Your Excellency The Chevalier De Chatellux Major General in the French army.
                            I was happy in the opportunity which his journey this way afforded me, of making the acquaintance of a Gentleman as
                            eminent in the literary world as distinguished for military merit and for the social qualities. The personal knowlege I
                            have acquired of him, confirms me in the sentiments with which his reputation had impressed me—and induces me to recommend
                            him particularlly to Your Excellency’s esteem. I have the honor to be With perfect respect Sir Yr most Obedt & hum.
                            St

                            Go: W—n


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir,
                            Head Qrs Novr 27th 1780

                        I have the honor introduce to Your Excellency’s acquaintance the Vis-count De Noailles, Colonel in the
                            French army—You will find in him an officer of distinction—a Gentleman who possesses those talents and qualities which
                            ornament birth and fortune—who has besides the advantage of being allied to the Marquis Dela Fayette—and participates
                            in the same zeal for the service of America. I have the honour to be With perfect respect Yr Excellency’s Most obed
                            & huml st

                            G. W—n


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir,
                            Hd Qrs 27th Novr 1780.

                        I have the honor to introduce to your acquaintance the Count de Damas, a Capt. in the guards of the King of
                            France and Aide De Camp to the Count De Rochambeau. He is a Gentleman of the first distinction in his country, and to
                            great personal merit adds a warm zeal for the service of America, which cannot fail to recommend him to your Excellency’s
                            particular esteem and attentions—I have the honor to be very respectfully Yr Excellys Most Obed. & hum. st.

                            G. W—n


Title: To George Washington from John Mercereau, 27 November 1780
From: Mercereau, John
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Piscataqua November 27: 1780

                        I Send you those Accounts: and what I have Been Able to Collect Monday Last 9 transports fell Down to
                                Denisces with flat Boats with them to take troops on board to Joyn Simco this Expedition Last
                            thursday Night a Small party went on the Island and found Simco Down on the Shore at tapins with his troops & 3
                            Cannon as soon as we got the Alarm we alarmd as far as Brunswick by ten O Clock that Night got the Shore and Roads as well
                            garded as possible the alarm guns being forcd I Believe Stopt them that Night the Next Night our Movement Stopt them But
                            they are Still att Richmond in Readyness have got 3 flat Boats there Besides the Boats they had Before if we dont get Some
                            help here with in a day or two I Expect we Shall Suffer. I Believe they will be Over with Artilery and Cavelry Boath there
                            is a great Deal of forrage & Stock in the Quarter if they Come in that Manner the militia Can Do Nothing with them
                            as we have Nither Cannon nor horse, I have Not been able to get the Marqus Questions all Answered Nor Cant till this Stir
                            is Over and they are got Setled. I Sent the Marquis an Account of the Number of troops on the Island wich he thinks was
                            to Large by far but time will Show I fear the Marquis is Much Deceivd by Some person that he puts Confidence in by Reason
                            thier knowing his intentions on the Other Side; as soon as I Can get a Satisfactory Account I Shall Come up I Now have got
                            a Description of the Most of the works on the Island which I Shall Shew when I Come up. Sir your Sincere friend and Servat

                             John Mercereau

                     Enclosure

                                Sir,
                                21-24 November 1780
                                Newyk Novr 21st 1780

                            I wrote you and Meserve this morning By Mr Mor But for fear of accident I Send you
                                this about twelve oclock the thirty seventh and sixty hors are now on Board and Ready for to Sail they are to be
                                Joined By Simco with his Ridgment and Cavelry and theirs Intentions I Belive are to Destroy the forrage in wood bridge
                                what they Cannot Carry of  Battallion of Seventy sixth are under order to
                                Imbarck But have not Mooved.

                            Sir
                            I wrote you two Days  I Did not Like to trust him Verry well But  Great Reason to Believe that they ment to Give you a Dash and no oppertunity offered But By him
                                if he Deliverd it Safe pray Send me word the next opperty their intentions was Greately frusterated Last night By
                                Being A Larmed that they Marquis was on his way to attack the Island this was Brought them By one
                                Lyon from Newark we have had a Verry Busey Day all Day and I thought Best not to Send my Brother
                                out till this matter was Somewhat over and Do not think it will answer for me to Come and See you while this
                                    Stur is for fear of Being Stoped or Some accident the thirty Seventh ware at the narrows when they
                                find the alarm Guns and Crossed imediately as they had flat Boats Laying Ready for that purpose wheather they will
                                Retire Back or not I Do not Know or Stay on Statenisland all the Militia ware Ordered Under arms hear By Seven o clock
                                this mornin and Kept till twelve Clinton and Genl fillops Both was on the moove Down to the Island and a number of
                                troops from hear But all Returned Before Sunset, they Seem to Be Greately Alarmd at the menuvers of the marquis.
                                Exspresses ware Sent to Kings Bridge imediately on the firing of the allarm Guns and it was talked that washington was
                                Going to make a Grand and General attack, But I Seem to think that altho’ all this Rout is made About the Marquis they
                                have Some Secret Design and Some Exspidition on foot Several Hors vessels Seem to Be preparing to take Horses on Board
                                and the forty second who have Been Doing Duty in town are Relived By the hessians from hellgate yesterday theire fore
                                I advise you to Keep a Good Look out and try if you Can not Stop Mootry Kinsey from fetching so
                                mutch pork to Coln Simco and to Good Inteligance the next oppertunity I intend to See you my Self
                                what R wanted Communicate to you when I appointed to meet you is over and I have not Been Able to Do
                                you the Service. I Exspected yours

                            N.B. Govener Francklin has recvd orders form his Majesty to Imbody all the refugees By them Selves and
                                an order to Sir henry Clinton to furnish them with arms and ammunition and two Ships Such as the Govener Shall Demand
                                for any Exspidition I am told that the Govener has Layed a plan Before the Commander in chief of Some Exspidition
                                which is to Be Let or foot this winter and that the Commander in chief has approoved of the Same
                                and that they have appointed a board of war and will Be Sur to imbody them next week But this is all Report and you
                                may form your own oppinyon of the matter.


Title: From George Washington to Elias Dayton, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

                            Sir,
                             27 November 1780

                        You will take post with and hut your brigade somewhere in the entrance of the Clove as near as possible for
                            convenience of Wood & Water to the forks of the road that go one to Ringwood the other to Charlottenburgh—From
                            thence you will detach constantly light flying parties towards Hackensack the liberty Pole &c. to protect the
                            country and suppress a traffic with the enemy as much as possible; but you will not have stationary guards for this
                            purpose—They are exposed and invite the enemy without answereing the end so well as parties continually moving from one
                            place to another. I have ordered a party of thirty men from Your brigade to take post at Dobbes ferry—You will have them
                            relieved every fortnight. Given at Head Quarters Nov. 27. 1780.


Title: From George Washington to Officer Commanding the Light Infantry of the New Jersey Brigade, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Officer Commanding the Light Infantry of the New Jersey Brigade

                            Sir
                             27 November 1780

                        You are with your party to take charge of the Boats at Doddes and proceed with them to Pompton where you will
                            wait ’till your brigade arrives in that neighbourhood and then join it. You will take more particular orders from the Qr
                            Mr General.
                        You will detach a party of thirty men, properly officered to Dobbe’s ferry to relieve the party stationed
                            there at the Black House. The officer will conform to the orders which he will find there in possession of the present
                            Commanding Officer. Given at Head Quarters Nov. 27. 80.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Timothy Pickering, 27 November 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Dr Sir,
                            Hd Qrs Nov. 27. 80

                        The General desires you will have the boats removed from Doddes to Pompton as speedily as you can &
                            from thence as soon as possible to Kings ferry—The Officer of the Jersey light infantry will take your orders. He will
                            remain in the neighbourhood of Pompton till the Jersey Brigade arrives.

                            Alx. Hamilton
                            Aide De Camp


Title: To George Washington from Josiah Quincy, Sr., 27 November 1780
From: Quincy, Josiah, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                            Braintree Novr 27th 1780

                        I am happy to hear, by my worthy Friend Doctr Crosby, that my last Letter to your Excellency, with the Papers
                            enclosed, were not only favorably receiv’d, but reviv’d the Remembrance of One, whom you are so good as to rank among the
                            Number of your Friends. Would to God! my Abilities were equal to my Inclinations; for then, I wou’d endeavor to render my
                            Self worthy of that Honor, by some eminent public Services in Defence of my injured Country. But, Alas! three score years
                            and ten, are, past with me: All therefore, that remains in my Power, is, to pray for the Continuance of that divine
                            Protection which has hitherto so remarkably preserv’d your invaluable Life, from the secret Machinations of perfidious
                            Friends, and the open Violence of declar’d Enemies, ’till the Harvest of your indefatigable Labors, shall ultimately
                            issue, to your immortal Honor, in the Salvation of your Country.
                        Our new form’d Supreme Legislative, has postpon’d all other Business, to filling up our Quota of Troops,
                            during the Continuance of the War. It is devoutly to be wish’d, that the Ways and Means to be devis’d for this Purpose,
                            may be effectual; and equal to the Importance of the Object! But, for my own Part; I am utterly unable to discover where
                            they may be found.
                        Our new Paper money issued by Recommendation of Congress no sooner began to
                            circulate, than two Dollars of it were given, for a hard one. To restore the Credit of Paper, by making it a lawful
                            Tender, by regulating Acts, or by Taxes, are political Manæuvres that, have already prov’d abortive; and for this obvious
                            Reason, that, in the same Proposition as ideal Money is forced into Currency, it must, from the
                            Nature of every Thing fraudulent be forced out of Ceedit. I have said from the Nature of every thing fraudulent, because, I am firmly of this Opinion, and think it intirely defensible, that there never was, a
                            Paper-pound, a Paper-dollar, or a Paper-promise of any kind, that ever yet obtained, a general Currency, but by Force or
                            Fraud; generally by both.
                        That this Army has been grossly cheated, that Creditors have been infamously defrauded, that the Widdow and
                            Fatherless hve been oppressively wrong’d and beggar’d, that the grey Hairs of the Aged and the Innocent, for Want of their
                            just Dues have gone down with Sorrow to their Graves, in Consequence of our disgraceful depreciated Paper-currency, may
                            now be affirm’d, without Hazards of Refutation; and I wish it cou’d be said with Truths, that the War has not, thereby,
                            been protracted: May it not therefore, be safely concluded, that no kind of Paper-currency is adiquate, to to the Purpose of
                            collecting and combining the Forces of these united States, for their common Defence?
                        That our Resources are equal to the Exigences of the Whole I have not the least
                            Doubt; but we have wandered so far out of the right Road, that I fear it is become extremely difficult to find it again.
                            To speak without a Figure. Fictitious-wealth, that represents nothing but Taxes, to be made a Medium of Trade, or Measure
                            of Commerce; an adequate Reward for public Services, and an equivalent for Specie borrow’d, either on public or private
                            Contract, before ever such fictitious-Wealth had an Existence, is certainly going out of the Road of Truths and Justice;
                            by Consequence, the further we go, the more difficult it will be to return; but, return we must, and that speedily, to the
                            Exercise of both, otherwise, it requires no great Sagacity to foresee, that our Ruin is inevitable.
                        Should your Excellency ask how it’s to be done? My Answer is short and easy, by reversing our public Conduct
                            in almost every Instance, since the War began—Permit me to mention One: Insted of a C—s become
                            despicable for Want of Power sufficient to do Right; or odious, by exercising an assum’d Power
                                beyond Right, had both the civil and military Departments, been united in one and the same
                            Person, during the War, and under the Limitations, as well as Sanction of Law; had this Measure, I say, been adopted at
                            first, it is more than probable, our Alliance with France would not only have commenced sooner, but it would have been
                                 sooner ratified and confirm’d, than the War would have been ended. Other Instances might be
                            given, tho perhaps not of equal Importance; but, I find, whilst I am reprehending my Superiors, for going out of the right
                            Road, I am insensibly led out of it mySelf. Be so good, therefore, as to excuse my intemperate ,
                            and believe me to be, with unalterable Esteem and  Your Excellency’s obliged and faithful Servant

                            Josa: Quincy


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                            Sir,
                            Hd Qrs Passaic Falls 27th  Novr  1780

                        I am much obliged to your Excellency for the interesting pariculars you do me the honor to communicate in
                            your letters of the 18th and 20th—We may now hope every thing for the safety of your valuable envoy and the important
                                 with which he is charged.
                        Since the confirmation of Ferguson’s defeat and the Retreat of Cornwallis to Camden, we have nothing
                            new from the South, except an intercepted letter of Leslie’s to Cornwallis informing of the time he had been at
                            Portsmouth (in Virginia) and that he waited his orders—The affairs of the enemy to the South seem at present to
                            decline—they will probably continue to do so unless Clinton sends a Re-inforcement from New York—This I fear he will
                            shortly do, as near one half of our army will leave us in a little time—From the temper now prevailing in the States, I
                            hope we shall not experience this inconvenience again.
                        I have kept the army thus long in the Field to shorten the transportation of the supplies from Pensylvania
                            and avoid consuming those in New York on which we must materially depend through the Winter; and at the same time in some
                            measure restrain General Clinton from making detachments. The advanced Season obliges us to retire and tomorrow we march
                            for Winter Quarters.  The principal part of the army will be at West-point and its dependencies. A Corps will be Cantonned in the
                            Jerseys at Morris Town Pompton &ca for the protection of the Country and Communication—My own Quarters will be at
                            New Windsor—If circumstances should permit you to honor me with your Company there, in the course of the Winter it will
                            make me particularly happy.
                        As the two Rhode Island Regiments are to be incorporated into one by a new arrangement of the army, I would
                            wish to unite them at West-point for the purpose of the incorporation—If their services should be of no use to you, I
                            shall be obliged to you to give Orders to Colonel Greene to march to West-point.
                        As it is improbable any operations can now take place which will often require sudden communications between
                            the two Armies, I have ordered the Dragoons hitherto stationed to form the Chain of Expresses, to be withdrawn. The Post
                            will serve for common occasions and special expresses may be employed on emergencies.
                        I have been very happy for these three days past in the Company of the Chevr De Chatteleaux &
                            family—The Viscount De Noailles—The Count De Damas &  our old acquaintance Du Plessis—I find in these Gentlemen
                            every thing that can command my esteem. I am—very respectfully& with the warmest esteem Yr Excellys Most Obedt
                            & He Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Elisha Sheldon, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

                             27 November 1780

                        You will immediately march to Colchester in the State of Connecticut with your Regiment and enter into Winter
                            Quarters. You will deliver over to the Qr Mr at Hartford all the horses that you are of opinion will not be fit for
                            dragoon service the next campaign; the remainder you will do every thing in your power to put into the most perfect order
                            during the Winter—You will particularly attend to that part of your former instruction, pointing out the number of horses
                            to be kept by each officer according to his rank and see that the number is not on any account exceeded—You will have all
                            your old accoutrements repaired as soon as the men are fixed in quarters.
                        As I presume the State of Connecticut will complete your regiment to the establishment of the 3 &
                            21st of October, (which you have seen published in general orders of the 1st instant) I would recommend it to you to wait
                            upon the Governor yourself, with an exact state of the Regiment, as to men and horses, and the difeciences of both, noting
                            such men, if there are any whose times of service expire in the course of the Winter, that in making provision for
                            completing the corps that may not be counted upon. I know not the mode that will be adopted to procure the men and horses;
                            you will therefore govern yourself according to the plan you may concert with the Governor. Neither do I know whether the
                            State or Continent are to provide your accoutrements. You will acquaint yourself with that circumstance and apply in time
                            to one or the other for those necessary for a full corps. Given at Head Quarters Prackness Nov. 27 1780.


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 27 November 1780
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                            My Dear Sir,
                            Hartford 27th Novemr 1780

                        I have to trouble your Excellency with a Request that this State may be, as early as possible, furnished with
                            Returns of all the Men from the State engaged to serve during the War, including every Corps, not only in the Line of the
                            Army but of every dependant Attatchment to the Army, the Artillery, the Cavalry, the Artificers, the Sappers &
                            Miners—or any other not within my present Recollection—ditinguishg the Places of Abode of each Individual—Upon the Plan
                            at present adopted in this State for reinstating their Quota of the Army this Return is necessary—and on this Ground your
                            Excellency will excuse this Trouble.
                        The Requisitions from Congress respecting the Army & its future Supplies, have been delayed to so
                            late a Period, that I very much fear a Possibllity at this Time to make a compliance equal to Expectation—especially in
                            the Article of Salted Provisions—the Time for makg this Provision being in a great Measure elapsed—I foresee a very great
                            Improbability that our Men for the New Establishment can be got on to your Army by the 1st of Jany—in Failure of this
                            Fulfilment; I beg to know from your Excellency what Substitute will probably be necessary—is it not possible &
                            probable to obtain two or three Thousand of the Fresh Troops to join you during the Interval of your havg a Small Army
                            & being again reinstated by the renewed Exertions of the States—an humiliating Idea this (I confess) for the Honor
                            of America—but better this Expedient, than suffer worse.
                        Our last Assembly, despairg almost of any Requisition from Congress on the Subject, had taken their own
                            Measures for recruitg the Army & makg their Supplies—inclosed you have Copies of their two Acts thereon—The
                            Assembly are now again called on this Communication from Congress. I am with much Respect & Esteem Your most
                            Obedient Servant

                            Jonth; Trumbull

                            P.S. as soon as the new Arrangement of Officers takes Place I will be obliged by havg a List of their
                                Names & Ranks.


Title: From George Washington to Anthony Wayne, 27 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

                            Sir
                             27 November 1780

                        You will march with the Division under your command to the Ground in the Neighbourhood of Morris Town, which
                            Colo. Craig has pitched upon for the Winter Cantonment of the line, and on which he has been preparing Huts—You will as
                            soon as possible get both Officers and Men compleatly and comfortably covered—As soon as the Timber necessary for building
                            is drawn together, you will deliver over, to the Deputy Qr Mr General all the Waggons and Horses but such as are absolutely
                            necessary for the transportation of Forage and Fuel—and all the Saddle Horses but such as belong to officers who are
                            entitled from their Rank and Office to keep them. I have directed the Quarter Master General, if it be in his power, to
                            procure Ox teams for the service of the Winter—They are not only subsisted much easier than Horses, but the Soldiers and
                            Waggoners cannot abuse them, by riding and other uses. It is recommended to the Officers who are intitled to keep more
                            Horses than one, to divest themselves of as many as they can, and the Quarter Master General will be directed to put them
                            out and support them at public expence—The Scantiness of Forage requires every exertion to avoid the consumption of it in
                            and near the Army.
                        The state of our Magazines of provision requires every attention to frugality and oeconomy, for which purpose
                            it will be necessary to inspect the issues every now and then and compare them with the Returns of the Men—The same may be
                            observed by public stores of every kind—of which our Magazines are almost intirely exhausted.
                        I would recommend in the strongest manner the preservation of the persons and properties of the inhabitants
                            from wanton or unnecessary violation—They have, from their situation, borne much of the burthen of the War and have never
                            failed to relieve the distresses of the Army, when properly called upon.
                        You will pay particular attention to drawing the public Arms and Accoutrements from the Levies at the time of
                            their dismission.
                        It is to be hoped that you will receive a number of Recruits in the course of the Winter. Should you do so,
                            you will put them in training, they may by imbibing the Rudiments of a Soldier in detail, be fit to join the line in
                            performing their maneuveres in the Spring—which you will direct to commence as soon as the season will admit.
                        You will not suffer the established mode of discipline and Maneuvre to be in the least degree deviated from,
                            as it is my wish to see the whole Army take the Feild next Campaign, with more than a common uniformity in the performance
                            of all its duties, as we shall probably open it in conjunction with the Army of our Allies, composed of some of the first
                            Corps of France—for which reason it will be doubly incumbent upon the Officers, who remain in service, to perfect
                            themselves in the duties of their respective stations.
                        You will on no account suffer a Regiment to be without a Feild Officer or a Company without at least one
                            Commissioned Officer—except some uncommon circumstance should require it.
                        The security of your Camp will require light patrolling parties to be advanced towards the sound—The Officers
                            commanding them may be directed to cut off as effectually as possible the pernicious intercourse between New York and New
                            Jersey—The most probable way of doing which is by the total destruction of all the Craft of every kind found between Amboy
                            and second River, which I would recommend not only upon that account but to prevent the passage of Deserters. The state I
                            am informed have this session passed severe laws against the practice;and it would therefore be
                            well to make yourself acquainted with them.
                        Should you at any time between this and your function with the Main Body of the Army have occasion to retire
                            from your command for a while, you will deliver over these orders to your successor—who is to do the same should there be
                            a further change.
                        The Jersey Brigade will be stationed at Pompton and at Sydmans in the Clove, and will be subject to your
                            general direction. Given at Head Quarters at Prekaness this 27th day of Novembr 1780.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Hanson Harrison, 28 November 1780
From: Harrison, Robert Hanson
To: Washington, George

                            D: Sir
                            Nanjemoy Novr the 28th 1780

                        I am extremely sorry to inform You, that it will not be in my power to return to Head Quarters by any means
                            as soon as I expected & hoped when I came away. The business which brought me to Maryland, & which must be
                            adjusted before my departure, will take infinitely more time than I at first apprehended, and will be prolonged the more
                            by the event of my Mother in Law’s death, which has just happened, before a division of the Estate of her dying Intestate.
                            Besides this, I find that the small estate I had even before my Father’s death, was running me in debt—a circumstance to
                            which I was an entire stranger previous to the War & which I had determined never to experience—and that unless I
                            place it on a better footing and things in some train before I leave Maryland what I received from him, instead of
                            benefitting me, will at least be very injurious to me. Every motive of common prudence and a necessary regard to my
                            present & future support require that I should prevent this. I have no other dependence, as the pay of the Army
                            from the unhappy depreciation of the money, is now & has been a long time but nominal & a more
                            unsubstantial sound. With the strictest oeconomy—without being at any expence the few days we were in philadelphia, except
                            for our Horses—Servants & Lodging—the Journey to Alexandria cost Colo. Meade & Myself Three thousand Six
                            Hundred & Twenty Eight Dollars. It is possible the pay of the Army may be made substantially good from the
                            beginning, which would in a great measure compensate for loss of time &c., but the point is so contingent, that it
                            cannot be entirely relied on. States as well as Individuals are not always mindful of past services and have been ever
                            often deficient in Acts of Common Justice. I hope, more on account of others than my personal consideration, that this
                            will not be the case of Ours. I will not add further on this subject than that Your Excellency may rest assured I will
                            return as soon as circumstances will admit. I cannot ascertain the time, but I hope things will permit me to set out in
                            January or February.
                        With respect to News—I am much out of the Channel of it; however we have had report on report of a body of
                            Six Thousand french Troops arriving at the Southward and landing in Georgia—of advantages gained over the Enemy besides
                            the defeat of Ferguson, and of the retreat of Lord Cornwallis in consequence of the first event—of his being repulsed in
                            attempting to pass the Wateree, by Genl Sumpter, who had thrown himself on the other side with 1800 Men, & of
                            Genls Smallwood and Morgan being in his rear, within two days march with the remains of the Maryland line and a
                            considerable body of Militia. I suspect the whole intelligence wants foundation, though it is told with confidence, as I
                            am satisfied the account of the French Troops, which seems to be the basis of it, cannot be true & especially as
                            they are said to be the Second division. As to the Detachment into Chesepeak bay; the information respecting them is vague
                            & uncertain. It is said, I think it is most probably the Object of the expedition, that they are foraging &
                            killing all the fat Cattle in the Counties of Norfolk & Princess Ann, in the latter of which I am told there were
                            many good & that it was assessed last year or this Spring at Twenty five Thousand head (all sorts) and that it
                            also had many sheep. This likewise reported that a Letter from Genl Leslie who commands the Detachment, to Lord
                            Cornwallis, has been intercepted, which places him under his Lordships orders, from which it would seem the Detachment had
                            originally a double Object, both to forage the lower County & to cooperate with him, either by an actual junction
                            or a diversion. The defeat of Ferguson, I should suppose, has deranged their plans a little, and this probably may have
                            induced Lord Cornwallis to fall back supposing he should have done it, as reported. The Militia of Virginia from what I
                            saw & heard, discovered on the arrival of the Enemy a good  of spirit and a readiness to
                            turn out. The numbers below on the Governor’s requisition & of Volunteers were so much more complete than he
                            expected, I imagine, that those from the upper County were countermanded by the time they were well in march. But a good
                            many in consequence of a previous Draft for three Months only (I think) were at or proceeding
                            to the Southern Army. I have inveighed as far as I have had opportunities against the destructive & ruinous system &
                            particularly to Colo. Mason, to whom I made a short visit, and endeavoured to give him the best idea I could of our
                            military affairs & to show the indispensable necessity of a better One. This General Greene will have done much
                            more forcibly, who had called on the Colo. on his way to the Southward.
                        It now appears to me, on account partly of the badness of the constitution injudicious appointments to
                            Offices, & the cursed system we have been pursuing, which has made of late daily & heavy requisitions,
                            without producing any good consequences or such at least as are seen & felt by the people, to be more languor
                            & indifference among them than I could wish. I am sure those are to be ascribed to the causes I have mentioned,
                            the depreciation of the Money, and the inordinate capacity of Traders, and not to any falling off in point of real
                            attachment to the cause, or in wishes for it’s successful issue. I was obliged to go a few days ago to
                            Portoballo when there was an Election for Two Delegates for the County, which is remarkable for it’s
                            exertions, and was pained to find the matter important as it was & ought to have been considered, could not draw
                            but a handful of people from their Homes. I was led to inquire and to conjecture about the cause—and the solution was the
                            Constitution had made all Militia Officers & Others holding Civil Offices ineligible, so that in fact the people
                            who will respect Characters, had but a very limited number of proper Characters at best, out of which to make a choice. In
                            Virginia too much of the same spirit of indifference prevails, but I can’t say whether it is owing to any radical defeat
                            in the Constitution. Colo. Mason told me he had it in contemplation to bring in a Bill to remedy the evil or subject the
                            Electors now attending to a heavy penalty. I thought he might atach a paragraph to compel the attendance of Businesses at
                            the Assembly and Delegates appointed to Congress, to go with equal propriety. The depreciation of the money and its
                            fluctuating state and the enormous prices of Goods, produced in a great measure by the rapacity of Traders in general, is
                            another powerful cause of the languor and indifference among the people. I have long thought it would have been better for
                            us, unless we could have had a plentiful trade, to have had none at all, except on public account. I am more &
                            more convinced of it. The appreciation or depreciation of the money in a great degree depends on the Traders. Hitherto it has
                            been their policy in general to depreciate it—and they have found a benefit in it, as the few who  have not made money
                            and traded on virtuous & liberal principles, for Such these are, bear no proportion to those that have made large
                            & substantial fortunes. The moment almost an emission is made, they determine the terms on which it is to exist and
                            if fortunately it is to have a currency, it is to be under some hard restriction or at an under rate. For instance
                            Maryland lately issued some Money on the credit of a Sum she had in the Bank of England and if their Drafts should be
                            refused—then on the lands & property of British Subjects in the State. A good deal of the Money, if not the
                            whole, got immediately into the hands of the people for purchases on the footing of Forty for one of the Old; but the
                            instant it was done, it’s circulation stopped in this Country, except in paying public Officers,
                            till the Goods in trade could be advised from Baltimore how it should be considered. Thus the credit of
                            the State’s  is entirely in the hands of the trading Men.
                        I beg you to present my respectful Compliments to Mrs Washington. I hope she will, as she was to set out on
                            Friday, have arrived when this comes to hand. I also request if You have any commands which I can execute while I am in
                            this Quarter, that You will favour me with them. The Letter I have inclosed for Mr Tilghman, You will be pleased to
                            deliver him. I am Dr Sir With the most respectful attachment & regard Yr Most Obedt Sert

                            Rob: H: Harrison

                            P.S. I am happy to inform You the Crop of Corn is amazingly great—I hear it has been sold for 15£ and
                                as low as 12, in some parts of this County. Meat, that is pork, is high, nevertheless 35 (or 40) Gold & Silver
                                or the exchange in paper is talked of as the price.


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 28 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Morris Town 28th November 1780

                        I gave directions to Generals Glover—Patterson and Huntington to discharge the Levies of Connecticut and
                            Massachusetts, by degrees, upon their arrival at their places of cantonment, beginning with those first who were worst
                            clad and otherwise unfit for service, as this would diminish our numbers insensibly, and not give the enemy an opportunity
                            of knowing the truth before the time which they naturally count upon. You will be pleased to direct the same to be done
                            with those of New Hampshire, and consult with Genl Knox upon the propriety of dismissing those attached to the Artillery
                            also, for I find we shall have occasion to divest ourselves of every mouth that we can possibly do without, and have
                            difficulty enough to subsist afterwards.
                        To give more perfect security to the Northern and Western Frontier and to keep the York line as much as
                            possible together, that they may have the better opportunity of compleating their new arrangement, I have determined to
                            send the remainder of the York Brigade to Albany, to be stationed there and at Schenectady and else where as Genl Clinton
                            shall direct. You will therefore put them in Motion, by water, if the Weather will permit, and give Genl Clinton notice of
                            their coming, that he may endeavour to make preparation and provision for them—You will let the commanding officers know
                            my motives, and at the same time inform them that their being brought down from Albany, a little time ago, was owing to
                            the sudden contradiction of the false alarm, which did not give me time to send orders for their stay, as I then intended.
                         The Regimental Cloathiers of each had best remain below, to receive their respective proportions, which I
                            will have delivered upon my arrival at New Windsor. I expect that will be in three or four days, or perhaps a little
                            longer, as I have some arrangements to make here.
                        You will divest yourself as speedily as possible of all the superfluous Horses of the Connecticut and
                            Massachusetts lines, as I imagine you have long since done of those of the others. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

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Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 28 November 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir,
                            Morris Town 28th Novr 1780.

                        I arrived at this place to day, having yesterday broke up the Camp near the Passaic Falls and detached the
                            Troops to their different places of Cantonment. I shall repair to New Windsor where I purpose to establish my Winter
                            Quarters, after having made some necessary regulations here, and visited the Hospitals.
                        The following will be the general position of the Army during the Winter—The Pensylvania line about four
                            Miles from hence in part of the Huts which were occupied by the Troops last Winter—The Jersey line at Pompton with a
                            detachment from thence to secure the entrance of the Clove near Suffrans (the design of these is not only to cover the
                            Country and our communication with the Delaware, but as much as possible to ease us in the article of transportation)—The
                            Connecticut, New Hampshire & Rhode Island lines in the Highlands, upon the East side of the Hudsons River—The
                            Massachusetts line at West point—Moylans Regiment of Horse at Lancaster in Pensylvania—and Sheldons at Colchester in
                            Connecticut.
                        One Regiment of New York is in Garrison at Fort Schuyler and another is at Saratoga; but to give more
                            effectual security to the Northern & Western Frontiers, which are both much exposed & harrassed I propose
                            if Provision can be had —which is exceedingly doubtful—to send the remainder of the line to Albany and Schenectady, where
                            it will be ready to act as occasion may require, and the Officers have it more in their power to arrange themselves
                            agreeably to the New Establishment.
                        I have lately had a very pressing application from Colo. Scammell for liberty to resign the Office of
                            Adjutant General, & resume the Command of his Regiment—Finding him determined upon the measure, I thought it my
                            duty to cast about for a proper person to succeed him, in so important an Office, before I mentioned his request—The
                            Gentleman I would recommend, is Brigadier General Hand, who I have Sounded upon the occasion, and who I find will accept
                            the appointment, should Congress think proper to confer it upon him. His Rank, independent of his other qualities, is a
                            circumstance of consequence—besides giving weight and dignity to the Office, it will take off any uneasiness which might
                            have arisen, had an Officer, younger than any of the present Inspectors, been appointed, because by the Regulations, the
                            Adjutt General is Assistt Inspector General, and of course commands the others in that Department—I shall very reluctantly
                            part with Colo. Scammell, as he has constantly performed his duty to my entire approbation and to the satisfaction of the
                            Army, but his reasons (which I should have transmitted at length had I not sent up his letter among my papers to New
                            Windsor) were such as I could not oppose, without requiring him to make greater sacrifices than he assured me his fortune
                            would afford.
                        Having received information through Major Talmadge (of the 2d Regiment of Dragoons) that the enemy had
                            collected a valuable Magazine of Forage at Coram upon Long Island, the destruction of which he, at the same time, offered
                            to attempt, is with my permission (which he obtained) I do myself the honor to inclose a copy of his report, by which
                            Congress will perceive how very handsomely he acquitted himself in the execution of his whole plan—There can be no
                            stronger proof of the gallant behaviour & good conduct of the Major and his Officers, and of the bravery and
                            fidelity of his Men, than the recital of the circumstances attending the affair throughout its progress. With very great
                            respect I have the honor to be Yr Excellency’s Most Obt & Hble Servt

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