Title: From George Washington to Thomas Wharton, Jr., 7 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Wharton, Thomas Jr.

Sir,
Valley Forge 7th March 1778

There is nothing I have more at Heart than to discharge the great Duties incumbent on me with the strictist Attention to the ease & Convenience of the People, every Instance therefore, of Hardship or oppression exercised by the Officers of any Department under my immediate Controul gives me the most sensible concern, & should be immediately punished if Complaints were properly made & supported. That there has been some Foundation for such Complaints & that they have affected the Service I cannot doubt from the great delay and Backwardness of the people in forwarding Supplies and affording the means of Transportation. Until the late waggon Law of this State was passed, there being no means of procuring the Service of the Inhabitants but by Milatary compulsion, Quarter Masters and Commissaries from the Necessity of the case seem to have been justified in impressing, tho’ in many instances prehaps it has been done with Circumstances of Terror & hardship which they ought to have avoided: But when the Legislature had by a Law made an Arrangment & put this important Service under the Care of their own Officers, It was my full Determination, by every means in my power, to support the Law that had passed & avail myself of the Resources of the State in the Mode pointed out, under a full Confidence, that the Wisdom & Forecast which had marked out such a Plan would be accompanied with proportionate Zeal & Efficacy to carry it into execution. Prehaps, Sir, I am not sufficiently informed to Judge properly where the present Defect lays, & therefore avoid imputing Blame to any, but I would wish you & the Gentlemen in Authority with you to be assured, that nothing would give me more Satisfaction than to see the Powers of the Goverment so effectual for the Supply & Accomodation of the Army, as to take away not only the Necessity but even Pretence of using any other than the Ordinary Civil Authority, Give me leave further to remark, that the Army seems to have a peculiar Claim to the Exertions of the Gentlemen of this State, to make its present Situation as convenient as possible, as it was greatly owing to their apprehensions & Anxieties, expressed in a Memorial to Congress, that the present Position was had,

where with unparallel’d Patience they have gone thr’o a severe & inclement Winter, unprovided with any of those Conveniences & Comforts which are usually the Soldiers lot after the Duty of the Field is over.
This will be delivered you by the Dept. Quatr Master General Lutterloh whose Expectations of waggons for the Transportation of Supplies to Camp as well as ordinary Camp Duty have by no means been so fully Answered as he expected. To what cause this Disappointment is owing you will doubtless discover upon Conference with him, & if it shall appear to proceed from the Misconduct of any Officer accountable to me, I beg you will furnish me with Proof of such Male practices that I may apply a suitable Remedy. But if our difficulties flow from a defective Execution of the Law of the State I trust your publick Spirit & Regard to the great Cause in which we are engaged will induce you to Strengthen what may be found weak & quicken what may be found languid & Sluggish.
The Necessities of the Service, Sir, are great, the Duty required I acknowledge is burthensome & difficult at this inclement season—but it cannot be dispensed with: The Army & the Country have a Mutual Dependence upon each other, & it is of the last importance that their Several duties should be so regulated & inforced as to produce not only the greatest Harmony & good understanding, but the truest happiness & Comfort to each; depending therefore upon a due & early Attention to this important Business & ⟨promising myself no small Relief from our present Difficulties I remain Sir with due Respect & Regard &c. &c.

Go: Washington⟩

P.S. Since writing the foregoing, I have Received a Letter from Colo. Gibson at Lancaster, dated the 2d Inst.—Extract of which, with his Order to the Quarter Master and the Answer, I inclose, to shew how much we are distressed even in small matters; but our sufferings in Camp for want of Forage & Waggons tis beyond all description.

Go: W——n


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 8 March 1778
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Poughkeepsie [N.Y.] 8th March 1778.

I wrote your Excellency the 5th Instant informing you of the little Success I had in procuring a present Supply of Provision for the Army under your immediate Command—I am now happy in being able to tell you that since that Time I have had collected at the different Posts in West-Chester County so much more as will make in the whole 400 Barrels Pork which are all on the Way towards Head Quarters—I expect the last of it will pass the River at King’s Ferry and NewBurgh Tomorrow—I begg Leave to suggest to your Excellency the Propriety of sending faithful active Officers to the different Posts on the Rout to forward it on Genl Parsons is furnished with Ample Authority to cause an Impress of Teems and Carriages to be made in this State for the Purpose and I am perswaded he has & will continue to exert himself on the Occassion.
I have taken the Liberty to inclose a Letter I have wrote to Congress inclosing a Copy of one to the State of Connecticut which as they treat of Military Matters I have left open for your Excellency’s perusal—If they contain any Thing inconsistent with the good of the Service at large your Excellency will be able to point out to Congress wherein I

have erred so as to prevent any Mischief they might occassion—I am with the most perfect Esteem & Regard your Excellencys Most Obedt Servt

Geo: Clinton


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Elias Dayton, 8 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Dayton, Elias

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 8th March 1778

I am favd with yours of the 20th Feby and am sorry to find from it that the ill state of your health added to the situation of your private Affairs renders it highly inconvenient on the last account and impossible upon the former to remain in the Service.
I am so well convinced that you have no others motives for quitting

the service than those you have alledged, that you have my consent as far as it depends upon me; but Congress having in a late instance seemed to have reserved to themselves the right of accepting the resignations of Officers of your Rank, I have not since that time thought myself at liberty to receive such Comms. before their consent has been obtained. You will therefore be pleased to make application to them.
I am obliged to you for your professions of personal regard and hope that domestic ease and an attention to your private affairs will restore your heal[l]th and circumstances to their former sta⟨te⟩. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel George Gibson, 8 March 1778
From: Gibson, George
To: Washington, George

May it please Your Excelly
Lancasr [Pa.] 8th March 1778

Capt. Greybill of the German Battn arrived here from Yorktown he Brought with him three Brittish Officers prisoners of Warr, he produced a Written Order from the Board of Warr. Wherein he is diricted to deliver the Gentn to me or Mr Attlee Commisy of Prisonrs. as I have not yet been honor’d with any directions from Your Excy I refused to have anything to do with them, they are here under direction of the Commissy of Prisoners, these Gentn inform that all the officers prisoners of Warr as Well Hessians as Brittish are on their way to this place. as it appears the Commissy is at a loss how to treat them, I thought it my duty to inform Your Excelly that your pleasure may be Known at present they are not in Confinement but are lodged with some of our Officers. The Troops here have been very badly Supply’d with provision, Beef in particular. They have been four days without Beef The purchasing

Commissary Says he cannot get any more Cattle to purchase in the Neighbourhood of this place. though some Butchers in this Town have offerd to supply us, I have order’d some Beef in Barrells from Middletown. if we are supply’d by the Commisy this Provision will be so much nearer the Army. If not we will be obliged to make use of it unless we take the Cattle from the Inhabitants by force which will destroy the effect of Your Excys recommendation to the Yeomanry of this State I have a number of men here fit for a Camp life if they were properly Clad. the Cloaths are preparing & as soon as compleated I shall send them to Camp, agreeable to the orders I have reced from Yr Excy—The guards at this place require 36 men dayly. the Militia do no duty & there is an absolute necessity for every Centinel otherwise the Stores &c. will be plundered, I mention this to your Exy that your Excy may know our present situation—I apprehended a French man on suspicion of being a Spy his name is Pierre Menot he says he is a Surgeon that he deserted from Philada 16th Febry. among his papers I have found a Certificate signed by F. Arnelung Chirurgeon Genl to the Hessian troops in America. declaring. that P. Menott had assisted as a Mate in the Hospitals, &c. under his care—In another paper signed by the sd Mr Arnelung He is dismissed the service in consequence of an Order from the Baron Kniphausen to the sd Arnelung forbidding him to employ any other than Hessian surgeons in the Hospital, A memdn. of his having reced from Colo. Clifton £3.16.0 on accot of his appointmt in quality of I’er [premier] doctor to his Regt—These are all the papers he has wth him, he says he has been in our Camp a Considerable time but did not Know there was any necessity for his having a Pasport from Yr Excy as the Court Martial order’d by Your Exy is not yet disolved I shall order him to be tryed by them—I shall be happy to have Yr Excys Orders respecting the Provisions. &c. as also respecting the Guards at this place & how they are to be furnish’d Interim. I have the Honor to be with Much respect Your Excellys Obedt Servt

Geo: Gibson


Title: To George Washington from Lt. Col. William Palfrey, 8 March 1778 [letter not found]
From: Palfrey, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lt. Col. William Palfrey, 8 Mar. 1778. On 10 Mar., Tench Tilghman wrote Palfrey, “His Excellency commands me to acknowledge yours of the 8th and this day” (MH).


Title: General Orders, 9 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Monday March 9th 1778.
Joab—Ilford. Italy.

The Cloathier General will have particular regard to Morgan’s Corps, the Artillery, the sixteen Additional Battalions and the North Carolina Brigade, when the next supply of cloathing arrives as the former are not provided for by any State and the latter are so far distant from their own that they have not received any supplies from thence.
A General Court Martial whereof Brigr General McIntosh is appointed President is ordered to sit tomorrow ten oClock at the Adjutant General’s Quarters for the trial of Coll Cook charg’d with absenting himself from Camp without leave &c. &c. Coll Chambers, Lt Coll Carlton Major Hull and a Captain from each of the following Brigades, (viz.) 1st Pennsylvania, Poor’s, Scott’s, Weedon’s, Maxwell’s, Conway’s, Huntington’s, Varnum’s and Glover’s are to attend as Members; All Persons concern’d will attend said Court at the time and place mentioned.
After Orders March 9th 1778. Tomorrow morning will be issued from the Pay-Office the Gratuity of one month’s Pay allowed by the honorable Congress to the Officers and soldiers who remain’d in Camp during the Winter. The Regimental Pay-Masters are to call upon the Pay-Master General for the same; They are also notified that a few tickets in the Continental Lottery are to be had at the Pay-Office if applied for soon—The drawing of said Lottery will absolutely commence May next.


Title: To George Washington from Captain John Barry, 9 March 1778
From: Barry, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Port Penn [Delaware River] March 9th 1778

Tis with the Greatest Satisfaction Imaginable I inform You of Capturing two Ships & a Schooner of the Enemy. The two Ships were Transports from Rhode Island Loaded with forage One Mounting Six four Pounders with fourteen hands Each the Schooner is in the Engineering Department Mounting Eight Double fortified four Pounders & twelve four Pound howitz Properly fitted in Every Particular & Manned with thirty three men Among the Prisoners is a Lieutenant in the Same Departmen with the Schooner the Lieutenant together with the Captain of the Schooner Being Verry Solicitous for the Liberty of a Fortnight thoug⟨ht⟩ Proper By the Advice of Nicholas Vandyke Esqr. (a Member of Congress) to allow them their Parole for a fortnight to Go to Philadelphia with Some Officers Lady’s that were taken in the Schooner, the Schooner is a most Excellent Vessel for Our Purpose & as there Are a Number of Ships Expected in Under Verry Little Convoy with the farther assistance of about forty men should Give a Verry Good account of them, as the Enemy are Greatly Necessiated for want of Forage, the Schooner is Unloaded But have not as Yet the Manifest of the Cargo But are a Number of Engineering Tools on Board. Shall Give You a Circumstantial account of the Whole Cargo as Soon as Possible By the Bearer Mr John Chilton have Sent You a Cheese Together with a Jar of Pickled Oysters which Crave Your Acceptance Should have Remitted the Particulars Together with the Letters & Dispatch for General De hester Before But a fleet of the Enemys Small Vessels appearing in Sight Obliged me to Burn One of the Ships & am afraid the Other will share the same fate after Discharging her But am Determined to hold the Schooner at all Events Inclosed You have the Articles of the Schooners Capitulation as we Sent a flag on Board her After Boarding the two Ships & am Sir with Due Respect Your Excellncies Most Obedient Humbl. Servt

John Barry


Title: To George Washington from Gunning Bedford, 9 March 1778
From: Bedford, Gunning
To: Washington, George

Honored General,
Philadelphia March 9th 1778

I was unfortunately made a Prisoner the day after I had the pleasure of seeing your Excellency at your Head Quarters last month. I was overtaken by a company of new raised Dragoons about twelve miles from town, on my way to my family. I took the earliest opportunity after I was brought here, to inform General Howe of my bearing no commission in the service of the States, & requesting the liberty of the city on Parole. I never have received any answer to my Petition, but am informed by Mr Ferguson the commissary of Prisoners here, that with Genl Howe’s approbation, he proposes my exchange for a Mr Cook a merchant of New Jersey near Crosswoix bridge, taken about a twelvemonth ago & now confined in Northumberland of this state.
Your Excellency is well aware how uneasy my situation must be here, I flatter myself therefore, you will do me the favour to consent to my exchange for this Mr Cook; or if there is any particular objection to him, I have reason to think, any other person in a similar situation with myself, would be accepted on the part of General Howe.
I should be greatly oblidged, by a line thro’ the hands of some one of your Excellencys family on the subject. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect, Your Excellcys most Obedient very Hbble Servant.

Gunng Bedford


Title: To George Washington from Anthony Butler, 9 March 1778
From: Butler, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Sir
Reading [Pa., c.9] March 1778

As I am informed that the Power of regulating the Appointments of the Quarter Master Genls Department is vested solely in you, I think

it incumbent upon me and therefore take the Liberty to Lay before you my Proceedings in that Department as an Agent for Camp Equipage &c.
When General Mifflin the late Quarter Mastr General resigned, the Congress requested by a Resolve that he would superintend the Department untill they appointed another Quarter Master General: in Consequence of which he desired that I would go on providing such supplies as Colonel Lutterloh or the acting Deputy Qr Masr Genl at the Army should write for; and continue also to make a large Provision for the ensuing Campaign as ⅌ the enclosed Return of Stores.
The enclosed Return of Stores provided since that time and now remaining in my Possession, together with my Prospects of Supplies in the several Articles I provide, will show in what Forwardness my Department is—I must confess it does not equal the Expectations I had formed—indeed the Difficulties I meet with in endeavouring to execute my Business are very great—instead of having my Materials and my Workmen centered in one City as was my Situation the last Campaign, I have now to look to the extreme Ends of the States for them; this alone will occasion Delays and Disappointments that prevent my Business from being carried on with the same Certainty and Precision it used.
Upon the subject of Tents the most important Article in my Department I wrote a few days ago to the honle the Board of War: I enclose a Copy of that Letter and upon that Head I think I need not add any more.
I have not yet a single Camp Kettle in Advance, the Severity of the Weather has been a principal Cause in preventing the rolling of the Iron—I have had two Ton ready rolled this fortnight past to send to the manufactory in New Jersey but have been delayed for Want of Waggons I applied for four Teams to Mr Young comg Waggon Master General of this State and after being kept in Suspense for nine days with repeated Promises of having them, I was at last told by Coll Holla the Waggon Master of this County “that I could not have them that it was against the Law for any Waggons to go any where but to Head Quarters[”]—the Iron now remains on hand and the Workmen at the Manufactory are idle for Want of it—this is an Obstacle to my Business which if not removed will render it impossible for me to execute it.
There are fifty Covered Waggons making about 8 miles from this town on the Road to Philad., the Bodies are all finished and thirty of the Carriages will be shortly so; as I think they are exceedingly exposed I have desired the Maker to look out for a convenient Place near to the Susquehannah where they can be finished and I would apply for Waggons to have them removed—there are also 22 Wagons loaded with

Spare Ammunition at Rheimstown which want repairing. I wrote to the Commissary superintending them to have them brought to the Place where the Workmen & Materials ⟨ar⟩e, and they should be repaired; otherwise it would be impossible to do it.
Enclosed are the Returns of Stores provided and delivered out by me the last Campaign throughout which I flatter myself there was nothing wanting in my Part of the department at least I am confident there was no Demand made upon me but what I answered. I wish I could have Reason to hope for the same Success this ensuing Year but I feel myself inadequate to the Task of Supplying the Army as amply as my Regard for the Welfare of it would make me desirous and as soon as any Person of Superior Abilities and equal to the Task can be appointed I will readily and chearfully resign in his favor.
The most Ardent Wish I have is to see America firmly fixed in Liberty & Independence, and whenever my Interest interferes with hers I hope I shall always have Virtue enough to sacrifice it to her. I have the honor to be with Respect Your Excellencys very hble servt

Anthy Butler


Title: From George Washington to Henry Champion, Sr., 9 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Champion, Henry Sr.

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 9th March 1778

The receipt of your favor of the 28th last Month gave me much pleasure as it relieved me from a State of the greatest anxiety on account of provisions. I hope you will steadily persevere in sending forward supplies of Cattle and if it is yet possible to put up any salt meat, I beg it may be done, for during our late want we have been obliged to consume most of the little that was cured in this quarter. I am endeavouring to draw as many Cattle as possible from Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia, but they are in general small and very thin, nor can we expect any quantity from those parts till next Fall.
I shall lay your petition for a temporary suspension of the limitation law before Congress, with your Reasons for the measure, and I hope they will see the propriety and expediency of it. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Thomas Forrest, 9 March 1778 [letter not found]
From: Forrest, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Thomas Forrest, 9 Mar. 1778. On 11 Mar., GW wrote Forrest, “I am favd with yours of the 9th.”


Title: From George Washington to Major General Horatio Gates, 9 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 9th March 1778

I have been this day favd with yours of the 27th February and of the 2d 3d and 4th instants, which I shall answer in their order.
The removal of so valuable a train of Feild Artillery from Albany to Farmington as to a place of greater security, was certainly a measure highly proper, and you may be assured that every precaution shall be taken to escort them safely thro’ Jersey to this Camp, when it is thought advisable to bring them hither.
You mistook the intent of mine of the 18th February. I did not mean to give you the trouble of making a Return of the British Officers who were exchanged after the Convention. Genl Reidesel, as I informed you, wrote to me to obtain liberty for him to make an exchange of some of his Suite and other foreign Officers, as that liberty had been allowed to the British. I did not chuse to give him any answer untill I had applied to you, that I might know whether you had any reason for making such distinction; and as you misapprehended me, I shall still be obliged to defer answering him till I hear from you. I think, considering the great number of Officers of ours who are in captivity, it is our interest to

exchange as many of our officers, prisoners under the Convention, as we can.
Commissioners from me are to meet others from Genl Howe on the 31st of this month to endeavour to settle a general exchange of prisoners: untill we know the issue of the negociation, it will be hardly worth while to alter the Situation of the prisoners in Lancaster County.
On the 27th February I had occasion to write to Congress on the subject of yours of the 3d. It was occasioned by a representation from the Colonel of the 13th Virginia Regiment which was raised as Cols. McKays and Cooks were, to remain upon the Frontier. Was this the case with only one Regiment, I should not hesitate, considering the face of Affairs to the Westward, to order it immediately to Fort Pitt or the neighbourhood. But the 8th and 12th pennsylvania and 12th and 13th Virginia all claim the same right, and if the indulgence is granted to one the others will be dis-satisfied. And to spare them all at this time is impossible. To regain the deserters from those Regiments is certainly a very desirable thing, and the mode you point out is the most probable. But I fear if those men who are now here find that the deserters are not to be brought down to join their Regiments in Camp that they may be induced to go off in hopes of obtaining the same terms. I confess I am much embarrased by this matter; and shall be exceedingly glad to have the advice and assistance of Congress and the Board upon the subject before I come to any determination. It is an evil that will ever result from inlistments for local purposes, when it is not convenient to abide by the agreement.
I shall immediately transmit the papers, inclosed in yours of the 4th to General Howe. I have the honor to be Sir Your most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. Several instances having occurred in which Officers have drawn cloathing from the Cloathier General, not being intitled to it. I shall be glad if any applications are made to the Board in future that they will never give orders to any but such as bring testimonials from the Brigadier or Officer commanding the Brigade they belong to. Some who have resigned have taken up Cloathing on their return home.


Title: To George Washington from the Officers of Colonel Thomas Proctor’s Regiment, 9 March 1778
From: Officers of Colonel Thomas Proctor’s Regiment
To: Washington, George

Park of Artillery [Valley Forge] 9 March 1778
Much Respected Sir

The Officers of Collonel Thomas Procters Regiment of Artillery humbly begg leave to offer to your Excellency a grievance they labour Under—hope from your Usual goodness to find redress.
Enclosed your Excellency has a copy of a remonstrance deliver’d to Collonel Procter to which he has given a Verbal Answer to the following purport.
That with respect to Annexing two Company’s to his Regiment to which he had before given his Assent he then thought it improper, and in case of any Augmentation in the Regiment the senior Officers before, therein, were intiteld to be preferr’d.
As to reserving a Captaincy which has been Vacant Above Nine

Months in the Regiment he has done, and is determined to do it as long as ly’s in his power, for Captain Lieut. Turnbul who was taken prisoner at Middlebrook in April last. We think it hard that Collonel Procters particular respect to an individual should retard the promotion of his Regiment and give umbrage to his Officers in general. We for the whole, with the Utmost respect subscribe ourselves Your Excellencys Obedient and devoted Servants

A. Wilkinson Capt.
Pat. Duffey Captain Lieut.
John Bryce Captain Lieut.
Geo: Cottnam Capt. Lt


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Smallwood, 9–10 March 1778
From: Smallwood, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Wilmington [Del.] March 9[–10]th 1778

I received your Favor of the 6th Inst., & in reply to that part relative to the British Prisoners, & their Treatment contained in the Deposition transmitted you, I can truly assert the whole is without the least foundation, except several being frostbit, which Fate many of our Soldiers

in common shared with them, from the severity of the Weather, & unavoidably getting their Feet & legs wet in Landing, the shore being very ⟨slutty⟩ & muddy; several of our Officers in bringing the Women on shore got touched, & Capt. Anderson of the 2d Md Regt had the skin taken of his hands by the Frost, I shou’d have forwarded a state of this Matter, but several of the Officers who superintended the disembarkation & conducting the Prisoners to Town, are now out on Detatchment, which prevents its being properly Authenticated, but it shall be sent in two or three Days on their Return.
Capt. Barry applied on Saturday Night about 12 Oclock for a Detatchment to aid & support him in securing & unlading two Ships & a Schooner which he had taken that afternoon, about Reedy Island, in conjunction with some Armed Boats of this Neighbourhood, one of the Ships mounts 6 and the Schooner 8 carriage Guns, he cou’d not inform what their Loadings were, I advised bringing them up this Creek, but have not heard from him since, but have understood he has hauled them in the Piers at Pt Penn, & that the upper part of their holds, are stowed with Hay. In much haste remain your Excellency’s very Obedt Hble Sert

W. Smallwood

Wilmington March 10th 1778 Since I wrote the above an Officer from Capt. Barry came last Night with a Bag of Ltrs &c. on his way to address them to you who will inform you more particularly of this Affair. I hear from him the Ships being loaded with Forage are burnt &c. & we can’t hear what has become of the Schooner but it’s hoped she has got into Hamburgh Our People were attacked at 2 OClk off Pt Pen by a 20 Gun Ship & an Armed Sloop which it was supposed were convoying the Remainder of the Forage Fleet—I have received Intelligence that many of the Enemy are out of Philada above their Lines towards German Town but the Intelligence is not to be depended on. I am as above &c.

W.S.

N.B. one of the Ltrs gives an Account of 100 Transports being ordered round to Delaware abt the middle of this Month &c.


Title: General Orders, 10 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Tuesday March 10th 1778.
KnoltonKittery Kendal.

The month’s extra pay and for the month of December may be received tomorrow at the Pay-Master General’s, who has been prevented from paying it this day, agreeable to yesterday’s after orders.
At a General Court-Martial whereof Coll Tupper was President (March 8th 1778) Lieutt Tipton of 12th Virginia Regiment tried for embezzling the Country Clothing drawn for the soldiery in the Company to which he belongs; Secondly, for taking a Blanket from William Smith a Fifer in the said Company, by which means he suffered much with cold. The Court are of Opinion that Lieutt Tipton is not guilty of the Charges exhibited against him and do acquit him.
The Commander in Chief confirms the Opinion and orders Lieutt Tipton to be discharged from his arrest.
At a Brigade Court Martial whereof Majr Buckhart was President, March 6th 1778—Mr Robinson Adjutant of 13th Virginia Regiment tried (with his consent) for encouraging a soldiers wife to sell liquors in General Muhlenbergh’s Brigade without leave, also for taking the liquors after they were seized by order of the Commanding Officer of the Brigade and saying it should not be taken away and for repeatedly geting drunk & behaving in an ungentlemanlike manner.
The Court are of opinion that Mr Robinson is guilty of detaining and using liquors seiz’d by Order of the Commander of the Brigade and saying it should not be taken away & sentenced to be reprimanded in Brigade Orders for so doing, but acquit him of the other charges. The Commander in Chief approves the sentence and orders it to take place as soon as may be.

At a General Court-Martial whereof Coll Bradley was President (March 3rd 1778) Lieutt French tried for refusing in positive terms to do duty when properly warned; The Court are of opinion that Lieutt French is not guilty of the charge exhibited against him and do acquit him. The Commander in Chief confirms the opinion and orders his discharge from arrest.

At a Brigade Court Martial in the Artillery whereof Lieutt Coll Strohbogh was President March 8th 1778, Thomas Coshall and Samuel Burris of Coll Lamb’s Regiment of Artillery tried for desertion—The Prisoners plead guilty, confessing their intention to desert to the enemy & were sentenced to receive 500 lashes each on their bare backs well laid on. The Commander in Chief disapproves the sentence as being illegal and orders them to be tried anew by a General Court-Martial.


Title: To George Washington from Landon Carter, 10–20 March 1778
From: Carter, Landon
To: Washington, George

My dear General
March 10[–20] 1778

I cannot avoid embracing the opportunity of Captain H. Faunteleroy’s returning to his duty in Camp, to tell you by way of reply to your last kind letter, That were but my nerves at all times as steady as my friendship is, You should be the last man in the World, that should have cause to complain of but a scrip of Paper to you, as you decently did. Permit me to conclude the remembrance of what I wrote on that scrip, by saying I was in no sort solicitous about your want of duty in any instance, as I have been ever confident that Virtue alone must and will actuate you as it has done, in every thing: my Knowledge of you, has not proceeded from any slight or superficial view: No, my very Soul has long wingd its flight with you, on the constant atmosphere of my most cordial wishes. But tho’ I questiond the Confident report, I could not but fancy, that your ⟨vir⟩tues by exceeding the bounds of duty, ⟨mutilated⟩ have laid a f⟨ound⟩ation for such an alarm; and ⟨mutilated⟩fore as if div⟨inely⟩ instructed, my concern beam’d for⟨th mutilated⟩ all the tenderness of advice; which as before you respect⟨ful⟩ly answered, to comfort me with Your great Prudence whenever danger and duty unite to test your Virtue.
Captain Faunteleroy it seems is to carry with him by our Governing orders all our draughted recruits convenient to him, as well as those who came home with him on furlough; and with regard to what I saw, if Other county’s draughted men cut as good a figure, and inoculation should favour them, My dear George you will acknowledge them to be depended upon, except as to their modus Pugnandi; and this I conclude, from their readiness to quit a most riotous gang every where Collecting, as soon as they had explaind to them, the difference between Slavery & freedom. I was convincd that the indolence and want of a ⟨cordial Act⟩ivity in Magistrates, and indeed Militia officers, was the sole Cause of all the irregularity and Confusion in the lower ranks of People; therefore Old, infirm, Sick and lame as I really was at the time, I went to the draught to Spirit up the Gentlemen, and satisfy others how ill advised they were: And when I shewd that the only Charter of Liberty, was Independence supported and maintaind by force, and that the Musket the Bayonet & the sword were the only diplomas that Sign ⟨& r⟩atify such natural privilege, to man they presently ⟨mutilated⟩d the drunken fumes of licen⟨tiou⟩s freedom, & re⟨st⟩ed in the bosom of a social Liberty⟨. A⟩s our County was ⟨the⟩ first which draughted in

the Northern ⟨Nec⟩k, Other riotous blades seeing themselves in a bad Predicamt, presently Submitted to the draught; for had they not, our Young fellas would have taught them better, since one Young man of Richmond alone when in a croud of 150 rioters in Northumberland, took the ring leader by the throat, knockd his gun out of his hand & delivered him up to Justice. I write this only to quiet the falsehoods which may possibly travel to head Quarters.
The revolt of the Canadians to the American Cause, of their having reducd St Johns fort, Montreal, and retaken Quebeck altho it has rolld to us through many respectable Channels, still with me it wants confirmation, notwithstanding it carrys with it a most characteristic circumstance, that of deputies arriving at congress to request the Admission of Members of their body to compose a part of the Joint consultations of United america: For indeed in Wartime, especially in an affair so Cogently interesting as the Support of Mans first Priviledge his freedom & property, truth seems always to be lodged in heaven, with an intention of revealing it in some divine Success: for this reason tho as yet I cannot beleive it, I must say I wish, hope, and really do expect so favourable a circumstance to our cause; for tho’ at present it may not appear to every body so advantageous, My Geography is in fault if it is not an inlet that may be openned to give the freedom of America great disturbance at any time. For this cause when others were cursing that expedition on its failure, as a blunder in the true system of good Policy, I always advancd, that the only error lay in the not supporting it with Propriety at first And when we lost Montgomery, in sending mere old age to take the Command; So that quite tired with the distances, the recruiting poor old Gentleman was as it were surprized; by which means the expedition became fruitless. But does not heaven seem thus to have conducted affairs, that our errors should turn out to our Advantage; as they certainly did in the defeat of the ⟨loud⟩ proclaiming Burgoyne? Had Canada been ours, he must have made his attack some where else; and Probably our Success over him would Not have been of so much importance. But this is only Sentimental; However it may possibly entertain my friend, at least to suggest how weak my politics at times can be. Again in the same line of weakness, I cannot avoid expressing my great approbation of the Proclamation from congress, suspending Burgoynes’ Embarkation till the Capitulation or Convention shall be ratified by the Court of Britain: for the congress certainly hold a controuling power over every united effect, as well as over every effort; and tho Genl Gates may have overlooked the due attention to the circumstance of ratification, the Power of congress must be implied in every conclusion of his; and I have no weakness, equal to the least reflection on his or any bodys honour in such an affair: Besides without

such a ratification how can we be sure of that Courts being bound by it? Enimies, especially those who want to enslave, are not to be so trusted; at least with me it would be complimenting devils rather than human Creatures, to place a confidence in them as to their Justice, which may be dangerous.
Tho I am inclind to hazard the consequence of this next Paragraph, My hand must shake more than it does, and my Paper So much less than I usd for my last letter, to keep it from you; for if I know you, I will persuade my self of your Steadiness in an immoveable Patriotic Virtue. Know then however inconsistant a report may be, Whenever it affects that cordial esteem which alone deserves the Appellation of friendship; a Concern will be continually disturbing the mind in which that esteem Centers; ’till by undeniable facts the falsehood shall blush in its invented Untruth. To hold you then no longer in suspence, A Gentleman of this State whether friend or foe I will not pretend to have penetrated quite far enough into, tho I must say it will be a deep wound to suspect the latter, Came lately to see me at S. Hall, where the weather bad as it really has been hitherto kept him many days. He knowing my immoveable attachmt to you, either personated or really injoyd the same; And told me that from undoubted information from the Camp, where he had never been, that there either was, or would be shortly a great Confusion in the army; because the more Northern Officers in it, tho evidently caressd by you, were brewing divisions, and had suggested among your multitude of friendly Officers, that the Northern Members in congress, either had or would Shortly agitate your removal, or supersede you in Command with Gates. He hoped it might be a mistake, or the effects of some potent Cup or ⟨can⟩; but even that was some how a demonstration of something being in the report; for Children and drunken men often bolt out truths, that are scarce dreamd of by others. My reply was a possitive Calmness as to the impossibility; because as yet not a whisper of the least disapprobation in Congress of your conduct in every instance, was so much as heard of to the Southward. His answer was Bostonians &a will be Bostonians One while one Successful person is their darling; and an other at other times for Success is their only principle on which they form their Judgemts of the knowledge and conduct of the Person engaged; and when they cant themselves equal the divine merit of a man, they are sure to bring in by their Malice, what another has done to exceed it; altho the Secret ⟨movemts⟩ of that Success, and ⟨actual⟩ promotion of it, may have originated in the envied man. I thought I confess something of this, by their publishd entertainmt, where Gates’ health was first toasted, and then Washingtons. But continued he, It is possible as they may see now, a great Probability of the American contest ending favourably,

they may have in view their first intention, with wch they have been often reproachd, that of making their State the seat and Governing Power over the whole Union; & therefore are unwilling Genl Washington should too long enjoy the esteem of the Army Now tho such Castles in the air, are sufficient to make every sensible man deny the possibility of Attracting Ætherial fire from an envelopemt of clouds, so thickned with Obstructions, Yet it is no bad conjecture, if there should appear any truth in the report. Here then let me not only address heaven, but you my friend to support your chosen Virtue, by an immoveable steadiness to your Country; & only retire from your duty, when actual Authority shall oblige you. I have for some time dreaded our own intoxications, from the Independency that would be effected, more than any Manœuvre of the enimies, from that vicious Partiality I almost see in every body; And it has ever been a dayly Orison to the God of Justice, to reduce us all to a rational Sobriety. Take nothing amiss I write. I am too old to Promise my self much happiness, from the event of any thing in this World: Posterity as to me can only struggle for its own future peace: but where I profess a friendship I would not willingly die with barely the ⟨sound⟩ of such a Profession. Therefore have I ventured to breath my sentimts to my Washington—Now Good Sr let me laugh to think how difficult it must be to you, to read this nervously trembling Scrawl from Dr General Your constant and Friendly Admirer

Landon Carter

Could you beleive that my name on the direction of your last letter, Could be taken for Lun Washington! Yet so it was for awhile, I suppose by eyes something dimmd with curiosity. It seems it is said that these letters from Camp suggesting the above report are discovered to be the forgeries from artists in the Ships of War in our bay. At first your death was circulated by them; but that falsehood failing to Alarm; Then from some connections known in the Camp, letters conveying the foregoing report were addressd to many as coming from their friends in the army. Slye rascals! I wish it may be so. I did hear they intended to interrupt our draughts along the bay Counties; but they durst not venture on Shoar except to buy or steal Provisions. Pray excuse the freedom I have taken of troubling you with the enclosd letter. I have heard Mrs Lee is sent for to see her Father, who I fear has met his last Attack A fatal Apoplexy or Epilepsy; and as the Coln. may chuse to Conduct her return to Mt Airy, which you good Sir may easily learn before this gets to you, I would beg you to keep it out of the way of ⟨curiosity until⟩ some favourable opportunity ⟨shod⟩ offer for returning to your respectful and Obedt as before.
The Capt. it seems is to attend those people thro’ inoculation Therefore

as this letter must be long getting to you; I have desired the Capt. to give it some quick and safe dispatch.

March 20. 1778 My Dear General can oblige me much with a Copy of the Printed letter that was forg’d for him to his Lady in Philadelphia, pub[l]ishd in one of the Papers June 24. 1776 I have never seen or heard of it, till your quandam aid Du Camp informd me of it this March. A Curious performance I understand it to be; and so replete with your domestic occurrencies, that it deservedly lodges a Suspicion of its inventer some where near to you. Your local Country are unanimously devoted to your protection. And let Gates, Mifflin, and the Hy—⟨de⟩ Conway, raise what disturbences they can think of, You have an Asilum here in every honest breast. For my part I do so abominate ingratitude, to so much Virtue as yours in Particular, that had not age and infirmity prevented it I should long ago have been in Congress to have died inch by inch for you.
Colo. Lee of Chantilli going a much more expeditious way, and Much sooner than Capn Fauntleroy has made me alter my Conveyance of both his brothers letter and yours. Indeed he tells me I may depend Congress had not when he left it heard one word abt the rumourd confusion in Camp; therefore it may possibly disturb you to mention it: however dont take it amiss, it is really a respectful concern; And I am glad to hear Such Scandalous matters are not agitated where it has been Solemnly reported.

Landon Carter


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 10 March 1778
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Head Quarters Boston Mar. 10th 1778

Inclosed is an application from Lieutenant Colonel Tudor of Colo. Henleys Regiment for leave to resign his appointment in that Regiment, finding but ill success in recruiting the Regiment. He has for some time discovered an inclination to resign; but having a few days since married a young Lady here, he now appears anxious to do it, and I imagine cannot be persuaded otherwise.
I am endeavouring to collect the Men who have been home on furlough & in the Hospitals &c., and shall forward them as fast as possible.

Some Recruits are in the Hospitals with the small pox, Some small Detachments will march in a day or two for the Army.
The General Assembly are divising some method to compleat their several Battilions, I earnestly wish it may be done in season.
The Transports intended to receive the Troops of the Convention are arrived at Cape Cod Harbo⟨ur⟩ and have sent up a Flag to know if the Troops are to embarke; the Flag has received an answer this day. this Fleet had sailed from Rhode Island before the News of the detention of the Troops had reached that place.
A Resolve of Congress of the 19th Ulto for the seperation and removal of the Troops of the Convention is just received here. What measures will be adopted by the Council is, as yet, uncertain. I have the honor to be with great respect Your Excellency’s Obedient Servant

W. Heath

P.S. I have this moment received the inclosed application from Lieutenant Thompson of Colonel Henleys Regiment for leave to resign his appointment for the reasons therein given. He has not been commissioned.

W.H.


Title: To George Washington from General William Howe, 10 March 1778
From: Howe, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia 10th March 1778.

I cannot refrain expressing my Surprise upon the Receipt of your Letter dated on the 9th Instant, desiring that the Meeting of the Commissioners, appointed by yourself to be on the Day following, should be deferred, and to so remote a Period as the last of the Month, when you must be sensible how essential this Meeting is, to the Relief of the Prisoners on both Sides, and particularly of those with you, whose Sufferings are extreme from the Want of the Necessaries lately intended for them, which by the most unjustifiable Means they were prevented from receiving; Upon these Considerations I am to request you will propose some Day in the ensuing Week, for entering upon the Business of the Commission.
My Order for the sending of General Lee to Philadelphia by Sea, was prior to my Knowledge of General Prescot’s Arrival at New York; I have since signified my Permission for him to come hither by Land, accompanied by Major Williams of the British Artillery, agreeable to the General’s own Request.
When the Agreement was concluded upon to appoint Commissioners to settle a General Exchange, I expected there would have been as much Expedition used in returning Lieutt Colonel Campbell and the Hessian Field Officers, as in returning Major General Prescot, and that the Cartel might have been finished by the Time of the Arrival of General Lee: If however there should be any Objection to General Prescot’s remaining at New York, unti⟨l⟩ the aforementioned Officers are sent in, he shall, to avoid Altercati⟨on,⟩ be returned upon Requisition. With due Respect I am, Sir Your most obedient Servant.

W. Howe


Title: To George Washington from Captain David Kilgore, 10 March 1778
From: Kilgore, David
To: Washington, George

[10 March 1778]

The Petition of Capt. David Kilgore Sheweth That Your Petitioner had the Honor to be appointed a Captain in the 8th Pennsylvania Regiment, but finding it most inconvenient, as he has a large Family on the Western Frontiers who are now exposed to the mercy of the Savage Enemy, who have lately commited several ravages within a few Miles of Your Petitioners Plantation. He therefore begs Your Excellency’s permission to Resign, as he may thereby be enabled to assist ⟨his⟩ distress’d family, should the Indians make any further progress in that Country. Should Your Petitioner be so happy as to obtain that favour Your Petitioner as in duty bound shall ever Pray.

David Kilgore


Title: From George Washington to Major General Lafayette, 10 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de

My dear Marquis.
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 10th March 1778.

I have had the pleasure of receiving your two favors of the 19th and 23d February, and hasten to dispel those fears respecting Your Reputation, which are excited only by an uncommon degree of Sensibility—you seem to apprehend that censure proportioned to the disappointed expectations of the World, will fall on you in consequence of the failure of the Canadian Expedition—but in the first place, it will be no disadvantage to you to have it known in Europe, that you had received so manifest a proof of the good opinion and confidence of Congress as an important detached Command—and I am persuaded that every one will applaud your prudence in renouncing a Project in pursuing which you would vainly have attempted Physical Impossibilities—indeed unless you can be chargeable with the invariable effects of natural causes, and be arraigned for not suspending the course of the Seasons, to accommodate your march over the Lake—the most prone to slander can have nothing to found blame upon however sensibly your ardour for Glory may make you feel this disappointment you may be assured that your Character stands as fair as ever it did and that no new Enterprise is necessary to wipe off this imaginary Stain—The expedition

which you hint at I think unadvisable in our present circumstances—any thing in the way of a formal Attack which would necessarily be announced to the Enemy by preparatory measures, would not be likely to succeed—if a Stroke is meditated in that quarter it must be effected by Troops stationed at a proper distance for availing themselves of the first favorable opportunity offered by the Enemy, and Success would principally depend upon the suddenness of the Attempt—this therefore must rather be the effect of time & chance tha⟨n⟩ premeditation.
You undoubtedly have determined judiciously in waiting the farther orders of Congress—whether they allow me the pleasure of seeing you shortly or destine you to a longer absence, you may assure yourself of the sincere good wishes of Dr Sir &c.

P.S. Your directing payment of such debts as appear to be most pressing is certainly right as there is not money enough to ansr every demand. & I wish your supplies of Cloathing had been better. your ordering a large supply of provisions into Fort Schuyler was a very Judicious measure and I thank you for it.

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 10 March 1778
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
10th March 1778

My last to your Excellency was under the 5th Inst. by sharp, the same day your Excellency’s favor of the 27th Ulto came to hand & was presented to Congress, but I have received no Commands respecting the Contents.
Inclosed herein Your Excellency will receive two Acts of Congress of the 7th Inst.
1. for restricting the power of granting furlough’s.
2. for holding a general Fast on Wednesday 22d April.
I have the honour to be with great Regard & Esteem &ca.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Henry Emanuel Lutterloh, 10 March 1778
From: Lutterloh, Henry Emanuel
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Reading, [Pa.] March 10 1778

By my arrival I have fixed with the Waggon Master General Mr Young all the Number of Waggons, and for those he had ordered out of Bucks, Philadelphia and Chester County, he has now ordered 50 Waggons out of York and Cumberland County. as the first will not be able to furnish their demanted quotum. as I was informed a great quantity of Flower caskes are on the shore of the Susquehanna. I have ordered those Waggons from York and Cumberland county to load & bring them up to Camp. I have allso ordered 15 Waggons out of Northampton County to bring up Salt as the Commissary Jones wanted it much.
Col. Biddle will take the Liberty to aske Your Excelly for a Pass for

Mr Hasenclevers Wife. Mr Hasenclever is a great Friend to the country, and he being an Executor of his Wifes Sisters, their estates being all liable to be lost if Mrs Hasenclever can not prevent it. Therefore he begs Your Excelleny would grand him a Pass for his Wife to go to Philadelphia for a few days which must be there before the 20th instand. I have the honour to be with the profoundest respects Your Excelleny Most obedient most humble servt

H. E. Lutterloh


Title: To George Washington from Lt. Col. William Palfrey, 10 March 1778 [letter not found]
From: Palfrey, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Lt. Col. William Palfrey, 10 Mar. 1778. On 10 Mar., Tench Tilghman wrote Palfrey, “His Excellency commands me to acknowledge yours of the 8th and this day” (MH).


Title: From George Washington to Major Benjamin Tallmadge, 10 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Tallmadge, Benjamin

Sir
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 10th March 1778.

Annexed is a Copy of my last Letter, which from the tenor of yours of the 7th inst. I am inclined to think you have not received—it

was sent by the return of the Dragoon, who brought me your Letter of the 9th February—The Legislature of New Jersey certainly never meant that the Law regulating the Prices of Necessaries should have a retrospective view and invalidate anterior Contracts—you will therefore settle with Mr Estey according to Colonel Sheldons agreement with him.
As Congress has called upon those States in which there is the best breed of Horses, to furnish a Supply for the Cavalry—I cannot take upon me to put money into Colonel Sheldons hands for the purchase of remounts for his Regiment in particular, which will be provided for among the rest, at the same time if he can engage some good horses at reasonable prices on credit, I will promise that they shall be paid for hereafter. I have no doubt that Colonel Sheldon will be able to enlist a number of men for the established Continental bounty, as the Service of the Cavalry is sought by many who will not engage in the Infantry.
The Debts which accrue from your Contracts must as I said before, be paid from the Fund which is established for this purpose in the Quarter Master Generals hands. ⟨I am Sr⟩ Your ⟨most⟩ obed. Sert

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Wharton, Jr., 10 March 1778
From: Wharton, Thomas Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
In Council Lancaster [Pa.] March 10th 1778

In answer to your Excellencys letter of the seventh instant I beg leave to enclose you extracts of a letter to his Excellency the President of Congress from this Council; and a representation from the Council and the General Assembly to Congress, by which you Excellency will see that attention has been given to the supplying of the army with waggons and what is the opinion of Council respecting the difficulties attending this business.
There is not any state on this continent which has been so oppressed with continental business as this has been from the beginning of the

present controversy to this hour. It’s exertions have been so zealous and unremitting that no time has been lost in enquiries after groundless charges of neglect made against it which have been generally calculated to excuse indolent or improvident officers, or to disgrace the government established in it. The amazingly difficult task which your Excellency has to perform while you are embarrassed with perpetual applications and complaints of officers who are not fully acquainted with their duty, must too forcibly convince you how near to an impossibility it is, to conduct very extensive business without the subordinate officers discharging in some sort, their duty: And it is from the example of your Excellency alone that it is believed to be possible to conduct the affairs of a large army under the difficulties which you have had to contend with; equal abilities or success in attempts of this kind are not to be expected in many instances. And this Council must acknowledge that they are not equal to the task imposed on them, if it is understood to be their duty to furnish every deputy Quarter master with four or five waggons whenever they are wanted, and to give equal attention to every other department of the state and army—This indeed seems to be expected of them: For there is at present an absolute dependance on the Council to supply the common rations of the soldiery now in this borough. An earnest desire to serve the general cause, and a Zealous attachment to its interest are the only motives which could possible induce the Council to undertake such business in any extremity.
The unparalleled patience and magnanimity with which the army under your Excellencys command, have endured the hardships attending their situation, unsupplied as they have been, thro’ an uncommonly severe winter, is an honor which posterity will consider as more illustrious, that could have been derived to them by a Victory obtained by any sudden and vigorous exertion. The latter often depends on some circumstance triffling in itself; while the former is derived from a determined perseverance thro’ the greatest difficulties which virtue and a truly patriotic spirit only can inspire. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Your Excellencys Very humble servant

Tho. Wharton jun. Prest


Title: General Orders, 11 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters V. Forge Wednesday March 11th 78.
Lewis—Litchfield Landaff—

At a General Court-Martial whereof Lt Coll Hubley was President held at Lancaster Feby 24th 78.—Lieutt McMichaël of the Pennsylvania State Regiment tried for ungentlemanlike behaviour, found guilty of a breach of 21st Article Section 14th of the Articles of War and sentenced to be discharged the service: Also Lieutt Dickason of 5th Virginia Regiment at the same Court tried for infamous and scandalous behaviour unbecoming the Character of a Gentleman found guilty of a breach of Article 21st Section 14th of the Articles of War and sentenced to be discharged the service, and also that this sentence be published in the public News-Papers on this Continent.
His Excellency the Commander in Chief approves the aforegoing sentences and orders them to take place immediately.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant General John Burgoyne, 11 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Burgoyne, John

Head Qrs [Valley Forge] Pensylvania Mar. 11th 1778.
Sir,

I was only two days since honored with your very obliging Letter of the 11th of February.
Your indulgent opinion of my character, and the polite terms in which you are pleased to express it, are peculiarly flattering; and I take pleasure in the oppertunity you have afforded me of assuring you, that far from suffering the views of national opposition to be imbittered and debased by personal animosity, I am ever ready to do justice to the merit of the Gentn & soldier—and to esteem, where esteem is due, however the idea of a public enemy may interpose—You will not think it the language of unmeaning ceremony if I add, that sentiments of personal respect, in the present instance, are reciprocal.
Viewing you in the light of an officer contending against what I conceive to be the rights of my Country, the reverses of fortune you experienced in the Field, cannot be unacceptable to me; but, abstracted from considerations of national advantage, I can sincerely sympathize with your feelings as a Soldier—the unavoidable difficulties of whose situation forbid his success, and as a man—whose lot combines the calamity of ill health, the anxieties of captivity, and the painful sensibility for a reputation, exposed where he most values it, to the assaults of malice & detraction.
As your Aid de Camp went directly on to Congress—the business of your Letter to me had been decided before it came to hand. I am happy, that their chearful acquiescence with your request prevented the necessity of my intervention; and wishing you a safe and agreeable passage with a perfect restoration of your health, I have the honor to be very respectfully Sir Yr Most Obedt Sert

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to George William Fairfax, 11 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Fairfax, George William

Dear Sir,
Head Qrs [Valley Forge] Pensa Mar. 11th 1778.

Immediately on my appointment to the command of the American Army and arrival at Cambridge (near Boston) in the year 1775, I informed you of the impracticability of my longer continuing to perform the duties of a friend by having an eye to the conduct of your Collector & Steward, as my absence from Virginia would not only withdraw every little attention I otherwise might have given to your business, but involve my own in the same neglected predicamt—What use you may have made of the information I know not, having heard nothing from you these four years, nor been in Virga the last three.
I have heard and fear it is true, that your Seat (Belvoir) is verging fast to destruction—In what condition, & under what managemt your estate in Berkeley is, I know not—and equally ignorant am I respecting the Conduct of Peyton—but earnestly advise you to impower some person to attend to these matters, or the consequence is obvious.
Lord Fairfax (as I have been told) after having bowed down to the grave, & in a manner shaken hands with death, is perfectly restored, & enjoys his usual good health, and as much vigour as falls to the lot of Ninety. Your Sister Washington goes on teeming, but can not produce a boy—Miss Fairfax was upon the point of Marriage in decemr last with a Relation of mine, a Mr Whiting, but her ill health delayed it at that time, & what hath happend since I know not. Your Nieces in Alexand[ri]a are both married—the elder to Mr Herbert—the younger

to Mr Harry Whiting, Son of Frank in Berkeley—Mrs Cary, her Son Colo. Cary, Mr Nicholas, Mrs Ambler, & their respective families were all well about two Months ago. Miss Ca⟨ry⟩ is married to Tom Nelson, second Son to the Sec⟨retary⟩.
Mrs Washington who is now in Qrs w⟨ith⟩ me joins in most affecte Complimts to Mrs Fairf⟨ax⟩ & yourself, with Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Sert

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Flower, 11 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Flower, Benjamin

Sir
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 11th March 1778.

I have received your Letter of 27th Ulto inclosing your Instructions from the Board of War relative to procuring Leather for Military Accoutrements—to which I have nothing to add—the common and milder method of Contract is to be prefered for supplying the Army, and when that fails recourse must inevitably be had in the last Resort to compulsive means—From the importance of the object, I cannot

forbear repeating my express orders that you will take the most vigorous and effectual measures for putting the arms into the best repair—altho I have a right to expect that you are already sufficiently impressed with the necessity for Diligence and Dispatch in this business. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Major Thomas Forrest, 11 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Forrest, Thomas

Sir
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 11th March 1778

I am favd with yours of the 9th: I cannot conceive how you can think yourself injured by the promotion of Major Popkin to the Lieutenant Colonelcy of Colo. Cranes Battalion of Artillery, if it is so, for I am not yet informed that such promotion has taken place. Each Regiment of Artillery is as distinct as the Regiments of foot belonging to different States are from each other, and therefore the promotion of an Officer in Colo. Cranes or Colo. Lambs Battalion no more affects you than the promotion of an Officer in the Virginia line affects the Rank of an Officer in the Maryland or any other. I hope upon reflexion you will see this matter in its true light, which I think is as stated above. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.

P.S. As I am unaquainted with the matter respecting Major Popkin’s promotion, I shall suspend it at least till Genl Knox’s Arrival.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Horatio Gates, 11 March 1778 [letter not found]
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Horatio Gates, 11 Mar. 1778. On 20 Mar., GW wrote to Gates, “I am honored with yours of the 7th 11th & 14th instants.”


Title: From George Washington to Colonel George Gibson, 11 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Gibson, George

Sir
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 11th March 1778

I am favd with yours of the 8th Mr Boudinot has wrote to Mr Atlee and has given him directions respecting the British Officers. If the Commissary at Lancaster does not exert himself to procure meat for the troops, write to the Commy General at York and make complaint to him and inform him that there are people who are willing to supply you. Certainly it is as easy for the Commissary to procure Cattle as it is for the Butcher. I would not have you consume any of the salt meat if you can possibly avoid it—As all the Continental Troops at present at Lancaster will be wanted here and must be drawn down as soon as they are fit for Service, I would wish you to apply to the Governor and Council for a Guard of Militia to take care of the Stores. But they need not be called in untill the continental troops are about leaving the town. The Doctor that you have in Custody called at Head Quarters when he came out of Philada and some of the Gentlemen of my Family say he told them the same story that he did to you. They therefore think him innocent of any ill design. They advised him to go into Lancaster County, as a place where he would find many of his Countrymen. Inclosed you have a Warrant for the execution of Marsin and Myer. Blanks are left for the Name of the person acting as provost and for the time of execution, which had better be done quickly and in as public a manner as possible. I have thought fit to pardon Harvey for the reason recommended by the Court.
I confirm the sentence of the Court against Wendal Bowman who should be delivered up to the Sheriff with Copy of his Crime and Conviction.
I also confirm the Sentences against Lieutenant McMichael of the 13th Penna Regt and Lieut. Dickenson of the 5th Virga both of which shall be published in general orders here. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.

P.S. Nothing is yet determined in the Case of the British serjeants they must therefore be kept under Guard.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General John Lacey, Jr., 11 March 1778
From: Lacey, John Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Camp Near White Marsh [Pa.] 11th March 1778.

I have made two attempts to destroy the forrage in the p[o]int, the party was one time disappointed by the Pilot and the other by a party of the Enemies Light horse I Cannot learn their is any forrage of consequence left in it, I have destroyd a Quantity of forrage between the red lyon and Dunkses Ferry.
I have moved over into this Quarter to join Colo. Nagle but find he has Returnd to Head Quarters—as their is a Number of Mills on the

Neshamany imployd in grinding for the Army, Some of them have a Considerable Store of Wheat and flour in them I have thought It might be of more Service to Lay Some Where in Reach of them to provent the Enemy from destroying or taking off the flour—for which purpose I mean to move farther in that Neighbourhood. my Scouting parties keep prety Low down toward the Enemy.
In[c]losed is a return of my Brigade, they are Situatd in the following Manner

            Present at this place
            Rank & file
            399

            on Commad with Cattle
               do
            50

            on  do  with Capt. Henderson & Capt. Humfres in Bucks County

            50

            at Dyles town guarding the Stores

            35

            Sick

            64

            on furlow

            9

            Deserted

            9

            ⟨9⟩
            Dschd


Title: From George Washington to Col. Henry Emanuel Lutterloh, 11 March 1778 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Lutterloh, Henry Emanuel

Letter not found: to Col. Henry Emanuel Lutterloh, 11 Mar. 1778. Lutterloh wrote GW c.16 Mar., “I had allso the honour to receive Your Excellencys Letter of the 11 instt,” and Lutterloh’s letter to GW of 10 Mar. is docketed, “Answd 11th Mar.”


Title: To George Washington from Diego Joseph Navarro, 11 March 1778
From: Navarro, Diego Joseph
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Havana the 11 March 1778.

Dn Juan de Miralles one of the most honourable Inhabitants of this City, as well by his personal qualifications as his Affluent circumstance, has informed me the misfortune which obliged him to put into Charles Town, in his Passage to spain in the Setie Our Lady of Carmen, Capn Dn Francisco Pruna, as allso the Genteell and Polite reception he was honoured with by the Governour and commander in Chief of Charles Town.
He allso informs me that disgusted by the cause which obliged him to put back, and the disagreable situation he was in on board during his Navigation he had resolved to remain some time in the Continent of America untill he could return to this Island and proceed to spain in a more convenient manner and with more security. depending on the Affection and Esteem he knows I profess for him, he has desired I would recommend him to your Excellency’s Protection and Favour. convinced of his personal Merit I do it with the greatest Pleasure and beg your Excellency will be pleased to honour him with your Protection and Favour during his residence in your Continent, Permit me in return to Offer your Excellency my Will and inclination to serve you as far as my Faculties and Power will permit. I pray to God to preserve your Excellency many years. I am Your Excellencys Most humble & most &ca

Diego Jph Navarro


Title: From George Washington to the Officers of Colonel Thomas Proctor’s Regiment, 11 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Officers of Colonel Thomas Proctor’s Regiment

Gentn
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 11th March 1778

I yesterday recd yours of the 9th inclosing the Copy of a representation made to Colo. proctor of some matters in which you thought yourselves and the other Officers of the Regiment aggrieved.
I am surprised that you should object to the vacant Company’s being reserved for Capt. Lieutenant Turnbull, now a prisoner. I am informed that he was senior Capt. Lieutenant and had he been at Liberty would have been promoted accordingly. I confess it is not customary to make the promotion of an Officer known while he is prisoner because the Enemy might rate him in the exchange at the rank to which he is preferred, but it does not follow that his Rank is not to be reserved for him. You mention a resolve of Congress for barring the promotion of Officers during Captivity. I do not recollect it, but I am sure if there is any such Act, it is calculated to suspend for a time but not to bar promotion. An Officer who has behaved well and has the Misfortune to be made prisoner ought rather to receive an addition to than be deprived of his Rank.
If you will reflect a Moment and make Mr Turnbulls case your own, you will be convinced of the hardship you would at present wish to impose upon him.
The Maryland Companies are not to be annex⟨ed⟩ to your Battalion. I am Gentn Yr most obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Isaac Sherman, 11 March 1778
From: Sherman, Isaac
To: Washington, George

May it please Your Excellency,
Camp at Valley Forge11th March 1778

Having solicited Your Excelly for a Court to examin into the Behaviour of Colo. C. Webbs Regiment on the 7th of Decemr 1777—Your Excelly has not been pleased to comply with my request, owing I suppose to the many important Affairs which continually demand Your Excellys Attention; but as I conceive the Honour of the Regiment and my reputation stand impeached in the view of the Publick; and particularly in the mind of Your Excelly, my Duty, my Honour, compel me to remind Your Excelly of my former request, to solicit for a Court.
That Your Excellency may have a proper Idea of the many disadvantages the Regt laboured under previous to, and on the aforemention’d Day, I shall take the Liberty of stating Facts in their proper succession. Your Excellency was pleased in the Disposition or Order of Battle to

place Colo. Webbs Regiment on the right of the Pennsylvania Malitia, and to act as I then conceiv’d independant of any Brigade; as we were to act not in solid Bodies but in small parties, to skirmish with the Enemy and harrass them as much as possible.
 On the 5th of Decr the Day the Enemy advanced, I receiv’d Orders from Genl Potter to join him. I told him my Orders were to act independant of any Brigade. Genl Potter said those were Genl Sullivans Orders I accordingly join’d him—The Malitia were then advancing toward the Enemy—Having Advanced within a mile of Chesnut Hill, I was ordered by Genl Potter to march Colo. Webbs with three Militia Regiments to a certain Home, to skirmish with and harass the Enemy as they Advanced—I accordingly march’d the Party, but could not comply with the Order, the Enemy being between me and sd place, then having possession of Chesnut Hill. Having Reconnoitred well their situation, I advanced within eighty Rods of them, taking possession of  formed the Line under the cover of the Hill that my numbers might not be discovered by the Enemy, who were in Divisons, their left cover’d by a Wood and secured by Sandy Run Creek Uncertain whether it would Answer to attack them, and to find what their numbers were I detached a party of 60 Men, ordering them into the Wood to Skirmish with them. The Detachment marched under the cover of a Hill, got very near and I think fired before they were discovered—The Enemy immediately attacked them in a large Body and obliged them to retreat. I found their numbers much larger than was apprehended, The Wood being full, I therefore tho’t prudent to retreat, and ordered one, leaving a Subaltern with eighteen Men to observe the movements of the Enemy—Having re⟨pass⟩ Sandy Run Creek I formed with a determination to dispute with them had they attempted to Cross—The Detachment was soon after Order’d by Genl Potter to join him—Nothing farther material happened that Day worth noticing, only, the Men were obliged to march the greater part of the Day and Night, having no provisions, which was generally the case during the Enemy’s stay—The sixth passed without any thing of importance occuring—On the 7th about Ten O’Clock the Brigade was ordered to march and harass the Enemy on their Retreat—it was supposed they were returning to Philadelphia—Accordingly we marched to Chesnut Hill, there had intelligence that the Enemy had passed through Germantown in consequence of which Genl Potter ordered us to return to Camp—We had marched but a few Rods, before Orders came from Genl Sullivan to pursue them, then having Intelligence of their moving toward Edge Hill, and to Attack the rear of their Left Flank—The Brigade moved on pursuing the road to Edge Hill. Majr Brooks was detached with a party to reconnoitre the Enemy—The Genl was perfectly unacquainted

with, and the Inhabitants pretending they were Ignorant of the Country, could not possibly procure a Guide, which made reconnoitring highly necessary—I therefore requested Genl Potter repeatedly, to reconnoitre the Enemy well before he attacked them, told him that it was of the utmost importance, and perfectly consistent with every military Principle, to act with the greatest precaution—requested him to send out small parties under faithfull and prudent Officers, and to march on slowly, that they might have time to reconnoitre the Country, examin the situation of the Enemy, and report to him. Genl Potter did not comply with my request, and I am very possitive that Majr Brooks made no report prior to our being fired upon; and that the situation of the Ground and Enemy were not properly examined. After we had marched some miles, I rode forward of the Brigade to make what discoveries I could—observed a party of Light Horse on Edge Hill, reported the same to Genl Potter, who halted the Brigade and rode forward. We soon found them to be ours—The Brigade was then order’d to advance—We march’d to Edge Hill, where we saw a considerable Body of the Enemy come out of a Wood, moving to our left—as we then stood with respect to the Enemy—the Brigade was advancing in a Column by Ranks—Such was the situation of the Regiment, that to have form’d the Line with the proper Front to the Enemy, it would have been necessary to have changed it to the right about—I have therefore in the succeeding part of this Narration called what was properly the right of the Regiment the Left and so Vice versa—We gained Edge Hill, marched a small distance & then by Order fil’d off to the Left into a Wood, which was very full of under Brush, that we could see but a few Rods either way: which undoubtedly gave the Enemy a great advantage—In this Wood Genl Reed formerly Adjutant Genl to Your Excelly came to the Regiment, hurried it forward with such rapidity, altering its Disposition, ordering one Division this way, another that, puting Officers and Men into such confusion, that render’d it impracticable to keep that regularity so necessary when going into Action. The Regiment advanced 60 or seventy Rods in the Wood when the Van Guard was fired upon, they having gained our Left Flank—A Front was formed as expeditiously as possible, tho’ hardly effected, before the Enemy fired upon us in front and upon the right Flank. The Militia having halted, and the Enemy got between us & them—There was hardly a succession of a minute from the first fire, to our being fired upon in Front and both Flanks—In this situation the Men stood till they fired some four or five, the greater part three and none less than two rounds pr Man—the Enemy having the advantage of the Ground, were at least eight times our number—advanced within 12 or 14 Yards and began to close upon the rear of the Regt before I gave Orders to

retreat, or a single Man gave way. It is true the Regiment retreated in disorder, but it was not in my power to have prevented it and considering its situtuation, I don’t think any Troops in the World would have stood with more firmness, or have behaved with more Intrepidity. Your Excelly is not insensible that the best Troops have often been put into confusion and retreated in the greatest disorder. There is not any thing which gives me more uneasiness than my Reputation shou’d suffer in the Mind of Your Excelly; but my uneasiness is in some measure alleviated, from a sense of having done my duty. A Man’s Reputation is his Life in the Military Line, and when he has once lost that his service is at an end and the publick Good loudly demands him to retire. I am by no means desirous of being an useless member of the Army, or instrumental of bringing disgrace, and reflecting dishonour on my Countrymen, especially in the noble profession of Arms: and were I not certain the behaviour of the Regiment and my conduct would stand the test of the strictest scrutiny, I should have requested Your Excellys permission to have retir’d. I am, with the greatest Esteem, Your Excellencys most Obedt humble Servant

Isaac Sherman Lt Colo.


Title: To George Washington from Lund Washington, 11 March 1778
From: Washington, Lund
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Mount Vernon March 11th 1778

Since my last the weather has been Wet, first Snow, in a day or two after rain until now, and I see no prospect of its clearg up—it has prevented me from going up the country—I am told the snow about the mountains, and for some distance below was very deep, therefore the Runs above must be impassible—I shall set off so soon as I think there is the least chance to cross them; This will keep me longer from seeing you than I thought to be, yet I think to set out for the Camp before the last of this month—I have some Flour and Corn which I shoud be glad to sell before I go, I was told a day or two past that Congress had orderd a Qty of Shad, to be cure’d on this River, I expect as every thing sells high Shad will also, I shoud be fond of cureg about 100 barrels for

them, they findg Salt—we have been unfortunate in our Crops, therefore I coud wish to make something by fish, or any other way to make up for the loss. I engaged (but not diliverd) 12 Barls of Porck and Eight of Beef, the other day at £15 pr Barl—you will ask where I got Salt to cure it—the Porck was put up for family Consumption but I think too much of it, therefore I sell 12 Barrels of it—by Boilg up all the Brine which cured the Bacon Beef &c. for family Use I made out to cure 8 Barrels of Beef—By which I gain in the whole (the differance sellg it green or in Barrels) more than a £100—It is a matter of doubt whether I shall be able to prevail on Lanphier to come to work this Spring or not, if he comes I shall be at a loss how to manage in my absence about Victualing him and others about the family, experiance teaches Bishop is not to be trusted—Milly Posey will be from home, what to do as yet I cannot tell, but I will fall upon some way or other, tho indeed I cannot tell What—If I can sell the Negroes I mention’d to you by private Sale I will—but the Best way of Sellg is at Publick Sale.
The people of Loudon are in confusion about being draughted—where, or how it will end I cannot tell but I hope well, one of the Mutineers got shot, but not Mortal, for which they threaten to kill Colo. F. Peyton, another atempt is to be made this day to Draught them—it is said this mutiny was begun by a Married Man, I expected they wou’d have been Silent, as the draught did not extend to them, but some people must do wrong, it is a pity but he had been Shot as well as the one that was.
Mr Custis not yet returnd from Wmsburg I cannot tell how Mrs Custis and her Children are not haveg heard from Mt Airy—this Weather has given several of our people bad Colds, some, Fevers, Jack & Sylla are much distressd about partg. I shoud have sent her down before this had it not have been for the badness of the Weather—Bad weather this for Lambs—we have lost more than I coud wish—I told you in my last the Mare you sent by Lewis was Sick, the cause of her disorder was eatg Ivy—she is not yet well. My Compliments to Mrs Washington And am Dr Sir your affectionate Servt

Lund Washington


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Wharton, Jr., 11 March 1778
From: Wharton, Thomas Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir,
In Council Lancaster [Pa.] March 11. 1778.

The enclosed is copy of a letter written by the Navy Board of Pennsylvania; which the Council thought proper to refer with such intelligence respecting the boats &c. in Delaware as Captain Huston shall be able to give, to your Excellency. However unwilling the state may be to lose their little force on Delaware, their confidence in your wisdom will induce a ready obedience to your Excellency’s Orders in that and every other military department. Perhaps it may be necessary to take effectual measures to prevent the men belonging to the boats from joining the enemy upon their being ordered to sink the gallies &c.
Captain Huston will receive orders from you to the Navy Board. I have the Honor to be with great respect Your Excellencys Obedient Humble servant

Tho. Wharton junr Prest


Title: To George Washington from Major General Benedict Arnold, 12 March 1778
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Middletown [Conn.] 12th March 1778

I am now to acknowledge the Receipt of your Excellencys Favor of the 20th Jany inclosing my Commission, and to beg Pardon for neglecting

so long to answer it. which I should have done sooner had the Situation of my Wounds permitted my forming any Judgement when I should be able to take the Field; they have been closed and broke out again, occasioned by some loose Splinters of Bone remaining in the Leg, which will not be serviceable, untill they are extracted, this my Surgeon assures me, will be a Work of Time, perhaps two, and possibly Five or Six Months. The Callous is strongly form’d in my Leg, I never enjoy’d a better State of Health, and it is with the utmost Regre⟨t⟩ I find myself at present unable to repair to Head Quarters & take the Command you⟨r⟩ Excellency has been so good as to reserve for me, as it is my most ardent Wish to render every Assistance in my Power, that your Excellency may be enabled to finish the arduous Task, you have with so much Honor to yourself & Advantage to your Country, been so long ingaged in, & have the Pleasure of seeing Peace & Happiness restored to your Country on the most permanent Basis.
The Bearer of this, is Colonel Wadsworth, appointed to the Commissarys Department, who in my Opinion is equal to the Task & will I make no doubt, free your Excellency from every Embarrasment on the Score of Provisions.
As soon as my Wounds will permit me to ride, I will immediately repair to Head Quarters. I have the honor to be with most perfect Respect and Esteem Dear Sir Your Excellency’s most obt humble Servant

B. Arnold


Title: To George Washington from John Cadwalader, 12 March 1778
From: Cadwalader, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Maryland 12th March 1778

I should have troubled you with a few Lines if any thing had occurr’d to me that might, in the least, tend to promote the Service—You receive such a multitude of Letters, that I can hardly think myself excused in taking up so much of your time as to thank you for the Civilities I received from you at Camp.
I shall be happy to hear that you have passed the winter undisturbed & that you have been able to keep your Army together—My fears about Provisions & Forage, I confess, still give me great pain.
Recruiting in this & the next County below, succeeds better than I expected—one half of the Quota required of each County is, I am well informed, made up, & the remainder will soon be compleated—The Farmers are in great fear of a Law to draft the Militia; & they are exerting themselves to the utmost in assis⟨t⟩ing the recruiting officers.
There is no person who more sincerely wishes Success to the Cause of America than I do; and I should have esteemed it an honor to have been continued in the Command I had in Pennsylvania if the Government had been such a one as promised that Freedom & Happiness for which we are contending with Great Britain—I now, no longer, look upon myself as a Resident of that State, & am at a loss to know what part I shall act i⟨n⟩ this—As so⟨on⟩ as the Campaign opens I shall endeavor to make myself useful in some way or other.
The importance of Billingsport to us, if we should be able to act offensively has not, I dare say, escaped your notice But I am apprehensive the Enemy know too well its Consequence to neglect to take possession of it before we dare to do it—Five or six hundred men might defend it against a Storm but would it be possible to keep it till we could collect Force enough to make an attempt by Seige dangerous to Philada—The possession of this Post may require such a variety of movements that it appears to me, a very considerable number of Boats will be necessary.
Be pleased to present my Compts to Mrs Washington—With the sincerest esteem & respect I remain your most oblig. very hble Servant

John Cadwalader


Title: To George Washington from Captain Stephen Chambers, 12 March 1778
From: Chambers, Stephen
To: Washington, George

Moreland [Pa.] 12th March 1778
May it please your Excellency

On the 6th Instant I informed the Adjutt General by letter of my proceedings untill that day, and at the same time sent to the Provost Guard Several prisoners that I had taken—Fryday the 6th my party being joined with Colo. Noggles to cover the Waggons that was taking the Vinegar from Germantown I halted some time on chesnut hill where I recd some loose information that the Enemy intended to be out that night with an intention to take the partys that lay on chesnut hill, this induced me, at Ten O’Clock at night to move with my party a long a cross road that leads to the york road, as by that means the Enem⟨y⟩ coud have no certain information of my Station, about two oClock the morning Saturday my Centry discovered a large party of horse and alarmed the party, ⟨who⟩ got immediately under Arms, and after viewing the Enemy, discovered the horse was at least three times our number supported by a large body of foot, th⟨is⟩ induced me to retreat thro’ the woods, as fireing on them woud discover my Situation, and I woud risk the loosing some men without doing any Service. I then retreated about two miles above white marsh, and next morning followed the Enemy to chesnut hill where they had broke the Window⟨s⟩ and Doors of the houses, least we should lodge our Soldiers in them, on their March thro’ Germantown, Captn Sample and twelve men belonging to Col. Noggles party unfortunately fell into their hands I then march’d to the Oxford Road about 13 mile from Philada wher I contd two nights and I believe prevented any thing to go that or any of the by Roads to Philada. Tuesday night I marchd down the Bustle Town road, within one mile and a half of Frankford, and Sent out Small partys to Cover the bye Roads and paths that leads to Frankford and Sent a Small party to Frankford if any shoud miss the other partys they might fall into their hands and Continued there untill sun two hours high, during that time I only got two Women one with Buck-Wheat meal Indian meal Roasting pigs Eggs and butter the other with pies Cakes and Onions—I have been doubtfull whether it was necessary to do any thing m⟨ore⟩ to women than take their marketing from them, therefore have permitted them to go home—I was oblidged on the 6th Inst. to send with an officer to camp Several of the men that were unable to stay longer for want of Shoes, and some at this time from being lame and wanting shoes are unable to march, my party by this means is reduced to Thirty ⟨two⟩ Including Serjts and Corpls great many of whom tho’ they stay are nearly bearfooted, I have got information of several pairs of Shoes being in Germantown and other places, which if it was thought adviseable to

ta⟨ke⟩ and give rects for woud enable me to keep Several of the few remaining Soldiers, I find that with Fifty men I shall be unable to Cover any of the Roads effectually as no Soldiers in this Season are able to k⟨eep⟩ out marching Constantly, and the inhabitants find no difficulty in getting round me, this induces me to request that my party may be increased to about ninety or one hundred men, then it will be in my power to keep out a Small Scout every night and the men will be able to endure the fatague, and the end of my being out ⟨better⟩ Answered—Lt Quin who goes to Camp with this can march them to me the Officers I have here with Mr Quin will be sufficient to assist—I recd information of several very Good horses being near Bustle Town Smythfield and other places near that woud answer the Enemy very well for their Cavalry and waggons, these places being Contigious enough to Philada I have reason to apprehend when the Enemy comes out forrageing they will take them for their own use, I have taken a Stallion the property of one Jacob Comely, who’s Genl character is that of being unfriendly, and tha⟨t⟩ the horse was intended for the English Service, whether the Information can be relyed on or not I will not pretend to say, but shall keep him untill I receive further instructions—Yesterday some men who came out of Philada informed me that the Enemy was preparing their waggons to come out a forrageing as they were nearly out of forrage—but I dont expect they will come untill the roads are more Settled so that Waggons can go with more ease—I am your Excellencys most Obedt Servant

Stephen ChambersCaptn 12th P: R:


Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 12 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Dear Sir,
Head Quarters Valley Forge 12th March 1778

I am honored with yours of the 5th instant, and cannot sufficiently express my thanks for your attention to my letter of the 16th Feby. I have the pleasure to inform you, that by the exertions of our friends in different quarters the Army has been pretty well supplied since, and I hope will continue to be so, if proper steps are taken by the present Commissaries, or if there should be a change for the better in that capital department. There is however one thing that I fear that it is too late to remedy and that is the neglect of curing Salt Provisions in Season, to the want of a proper quantity of which in hot weather, I attribute the prevalency of Fluxes and other disorders in our Army—There are complaints from every quarter of the remissness of Payment in the Commissary and Quarter Master departments, whether this is owing to the misapplication of Public Money or whether the departments have not been properly supported by the Treasury I will not undertake to determine as none of their accounts either go thro’ my hands or are subject to my ⟨in⟩spection. A change is taking place in the Qr Masters and I hope if the Gentleman who is in nomination accepts that there will be a considerable reform.
The letter which you desired Doctr Cochran to enquire about came safely to my hands. The hints which you were pleased to give of mismanagement in the North River Command came also from several other hands, and did not a little embarrass me, as they contain charges rather resulting from want of judgment than any real intention to do wrong. It is much to be lamented that we should have officers of so high rank as to intitle them to claim seperate Commands with so moderate a share of abilities to direct them in the execution of those commands. You may however rest assured that proper steps are taking to introduce if the general course of service will admit, a Gentleman who I hope will better answer the Public end and be fully agreeable to the State of New York in particular. I hope you will in the mean time continue to afford General Parsons every assistance by your advice in the execution of the necessary Works and by rendering him what aids he may call for from your Government. I have the honor to be with the highest esteem and Personal regard Dr Sir your most Ob⟨d⟩t Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Maj. Gen. William Heath, 12 March 1778 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Letter not found: to Maj. Gen. William Heath, 12 Mar. 1778. On 6 April, Heath wrote GW, “I have to acknowledge the honor of the receipt of yours of the 5th & 12th Ulto.”


Title: From George Washington to General William Howe, 12 March 1778
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, William

Sir
Head Quarters Valley Forge 12th March 1778

Your Letter of the 10th came to hand last night.
The meeting of our Commissioners cannot take place ’till the time appointed in my last.
I am not able to conceive on what principle it should be imagined, that any distinction, injurious to Lieut. Colo. Campbell and the Hessian Field Officers still exists. That they have not yet been returned on parole is to be ascribed solely to the remoteness of their situation. Mr Boudinot informs me that he momently expects their arrival, in prosecution of our engagement. You are well aware, that the distinction originally made, with respect to them, was in consequence of your discrimination to the prejudice of General Lee. On your receding from that discrimination, and agreeing to a mutual releasement of Officers on parole—the difficulty ceased, and General Prescot was sent into New York, in full expectation, that General Lee would have immediately come out, in return. So far from adhering to any former exception, I had particularly directed my Commissary of Prisoners to release Lieut. Colo. Campbell, in lieu of Lt Colo. Ethan Allen.
I wish Sir, I was not Obliged to say there are some ambiguities, still Characterising the measures taken, concerning General Lee; which justify alarming surmises, notwithstanding all that has passed to the contrary. I have now been as explicit as you can desire, on the subject of Colo. Campbell and the Hessian Gentlemen and I hope to find you as explicit on the subject of General Lee; by giving directions without further delay, to liberate him in place of General Prescot. General Lee’s request mentioned by you to be permitted to come by Land to Philadelphia can be no objection to this requisition; it was founded upon your order to send him round by water to that place; and, conceiving, it would be insisted on that he should pass to Philadelphia, he prefered the mode of going by Land as the least inconvenient alternative. But the measure appears to me wholly improper, and a departure from our late stipulation; calculated to impose unnecessary hardships on that

unfortunate Gentleman; and to produce needless procrastination, at least, in allowing him the common benefit of a general agreement. With due respect I am, sir, Your most Obedt servant

Go: Washington