Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 20 June 1780
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
Philada June 20th 1780

I have received your favour of the sixteenth Instant directing the March of the City Light Horse, for which the necessary orders will be given and they will proceed with all possible dispatch Upon the new plan of our Militia there are Light Horse attached to the troops of every County The short time since the plan has been adopted has not permitted a thorough execution, but if your Excellency should be of opinion they would be specially useful I shall endeavour to have them completed as soon as may be. The troop of the County of Philada is already well mounted armed and in uniform. I do assure your Excellency every stimulus has been used to forward the recruits. According to information they are chiefly selected and only wait a proper equipment, but as I found this was tedious in the Country I directed them to be sent hither and they are now coming in. I am of opinion if your Excellency could spare a few Officers say five or six prudent and discreet who could bear with the oddities and humours of the persons with whom they will have to do, it might forward the Men—and as it is proposed to set about a voluntary additional enlistment as soon as this is over we are sanguine enough to believe some Men might be had—for this purpose some clever serjeants would be of great service. The spirit which your Excellency seems to wish I think is recovered beyond expectation. The loss of Charlestown like many other seeming misfortunes may perhaps

(heavy as it now appears) prove a real blessing to America. A measure has been set on foot here to establish a bank which from the unanimity with which it is espoused seems likely to produce considerable advantages and supplies to the Army. It was at first constructed upon so narrow a scale as to meet with difficulties but being since enlarged I hope will prove a more fruitful source of supply than the occasional expedients from time to time adopted. Whatever measure promotes the publick good shall have my aid and concurrence from whatever quarter it proceeds.
The Ladies of the place have also caught the happy contagion and in a few days Mrs Reed will have the honour of writing to you on that subject. It is expected she will have a sum equal to one hundred thousand pounds to be laid out according to your Excellencys direction (in the absence of Mrs Washington) in such a way as may be thought most honorable and gratifying to the brave old soldiers who have borne so great a share of the burthen of this War. I thought it best to mention it in this way to your Excellency for your Consideration as it may tend to forward the benevolent scheme of the donors with dispatch. I must observe that the Ladies have excepted such articles of necessity as Cloathing &ca which the states are bound to provide.
We have just heard that Mrs Washington is upon the Road to this City so that we shall have the benefit of her advice and assistance here and if necessary refer afterwards to your Excellency. I am with the greatest respect and regard Dear sir Your most obedient and very humble servant

Jos: Reed President


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 20 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

Dr Sir
Head Quarters Springfield June 20th 1780

I have thought proper to send Brigr Genl Parsons to your State to receive arrange and forward to the army the Drafts and recruits which may be furnished for the Continental Battalions in consequence of the late requisitions of the Committee of Congress. Your Excellency will be pleased to give him such information and advice as will be requisite for his government.
So important is the present crisis that I can omit no occasion of urging the necessity of the greatest vigor and decision in our Public measures—the filling our Battalions above all to their full complement without a moments delay is perhaps a point on which the fate of America is suspended—With proper exertion we may have every thing to animate our hopes, on one side—and with an imperfect exertion we have every thing to dread on the other. I anxiously and ardently hope this idea may govern all those who have influence in our Public affairs—I know your Excellency too well and esteem you too highly to doubt your best endeavours. With perfect respect I have the honor to be Yr Mo. Obet & hum. Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Goose Van Schaick, 20 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Van Schaick, Goose

Sir
Head qrs Springfield June 20th 1780

I have received in order of their date, Your Two favors of the 1st & 10th Inst. I am exceedingly concerned on account of the mutiny mentioned in the first—and that there is still a spirit of dissatisfaction prevailing in the Regiment. It is my wish to relieve the Garrison &, as I had done before—I have now written to His Excellency, Govr Clinton—and hope

that circumstances will admit of a sufficient Detachment of the Men raised for Frontier service, being immediately sent for the purpose. I feel for the wants of the Troops both Officers & Men, but the present is a difficult conjuncture in our affairs. All that can be done, I hope will be for the relief of the whole; but if they should be disappointed either in their wishes to join the main Army for the present, or in their hopes of supplies—the Troops must not tarnish by an unbecoming or unsoldiery conduct, the honor & character of perseverance which they have justly acquired. The want of pay & necessaries are not peculiar to the Regiment garrisoning Fort Schuyler. The rest of the Army has experienced the same. Matters it is to be hoped will before long undergo a change for the better. We are in daily expectation of the arrival of a respectable succour from France. When this arrives, if the Army continue virtuous (a point I trust not to be doubted in the smallest degree under circumstances of difficulty—trial or misfortune) and the States make the efforts of which they are well capable, we may flatter ourselves that we shall do something at least of an important & interesting nature. As to Shoes the State Cloathier may obtain a supply for the Regiment, by applying to the Cloathier at New Windsor; or if there are any in Albany belonging to the Continent, he may perhaps negotiate a supply in that way, with more facility by Letter. When the Garrison is relieved, Lt Colo. Vandyck is still to remain to command at the post—and the Regiment is to join the Main Army, unless You receive future Orders to the contrary.
From the importance of the post of Fort Schuyler & to render it secure on this head—I have written to Genl Howe & desired him to send another Hundred Barrels of flour from West point to Albany. I have also requested His Excellency Govr Clinton, if he has not already received a Hundred Barrels of Beef or got it in train, exclusive of the 40 Barrels forwarded by Colo. Gansevort, in consequence of my Order sometime since, to apply to Genl Howe who will send that quantity to Albany. When this Flour & Meat arrive You will use your best exertions to have it thrown into Fort Schuyler. The Detachment intended for to relieve the Garrison will be a good escort—and it should go under their protection & convoy. You will write when the provision is sent to Colo. Vandyck & suggest to him the propriety & necessity of his obtaining & using whenever possible, Fresh meat to aid the Salt. I am &c.

G. Washington


Title: General Orders, 21 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters near short Hills [N.J.] Wednesday June 21st 1780
Parole Amboy  Countersigns Alps, B.Watchword Caution

Major General Greene will for the present Command the advanced Corps of the Army consisting of Maxwell’s and Stark’s brigades, the Light Horse and Militia.
The officers and men of other Corps on the lines are to be relieved tomorrow morning by such detachments as General Greene may think proper to order and are to rejoin their respective Corps. This order is to comprehend any Guards which may be in or about springfield.
The Court martial of which General Hand is President to sit at Chatham tomorrow ten o clock and proceed on the Trial of Doctor Shippen—They will sit from day to day ’till the business is finish’d unless a movement of the Enemy shou’d make it necessary to join their respective Corps in which case they are to do it without further orders.

After Orders
Tench Tilghman Esqr. is Appointed Aide de Camp to the Commander in Chief and is to be obeyed and respected as such.
The Troops under Command of General St Clair and the Connecticut Line are to march tomorrow morning at three o clock.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 21 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

Gentlemen,
Hd Qrs Springfield June 21st 1780

The Board, in a late letter, left it with me to determine the recall of the infantry of Major Lee’s corps. It will certainly be eligible, that the corps should be united—and as the services of the horse in this quarter cannot be dispensed with, it is in my opinion adviseable that

the infantry should be without delay ordered to join this army—They are too inconsiderable in number to make any difference in the scale of Southern affairs. If the Board agree with me in sentiment I request them to dispatch an order to the Commanding officer to hasten him back. I have the honor to be With perfect respect Gentlemen Yr most Obedt serv.


Title: To George Washington from James Craik, 21 June 1780
From: Craik, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Providence Rhode Island June 21st 1780

I should be unworthy of the Confidence reposed in me at this time by your Excellency if I did not from time to time inform you of the progress I had made in the bussiness you were pleased to send me on And I am Sorry indeed to inform your Excellency that notwithstanding all my exertions (which have been used to the utmost of my power) I have not a prospect of coming up to the Spirit of your Instructions to me. In my last of 11th Instant I mentioned my intention of waiting on the Assembly in hopes they would point out proper Buildings for Hospitals. Upon my being called before the House, I was Interrogated whither I had any particular places in Veiw, which I thought would answer the purpose. I informed them that I had visited Several places, by desire of the Council of War, and could not say that I knew of any, except the College, which I mentioned to them with all the Advantages attending it. Another place called Vassalls Farm on Papusquash on which are four Barns and a Good Dwelling House was likewise mentioned—This place is fifteen miles down the River from Providence, on a Narrow neck of Land, well aired and watered. but in my Opinion very unsafe as Newport is so far a Frigate or two might easyly run up within Musket Shot & take the Paroles of all the Sick & go off with impunity. The House went fully upon the Matter and a Vote passed the Lower House two to one that I should take the College, upon which I came off. but it Seems before

it passed into a Resolve of both Houses a Remonstrance was obtained by the Parson (a Mr Manning) from the people of Providence which occasioned a Reconsideration; And as the Parson had taken great pains to Inflame the people and make them beleive that a Disease not less mortal than the Plague was to be brought in by the Fleet, the Vote was set asside. And a Resolve of both houses Substituted in its place, which I herewith Inclose. In which your Excellency will See that in place of having proper houses provided previous to the Arrival of the French Fleet and Army I must wait untill the old Barracks are collected from different parts of the State & Erected. And notwithstanding I urged in the Strongest terms the impropriety of Depending upon Barracks for Hospitals And the uncertainty of the time they might be wanted, I have nothing left for it now, but to have those Erected as fast as possible and in the best manner I can. and I am affraid when that is done (should it possibly happen before the Arrival of the Fleet) that they will be insufficient for the number. The D.Q.M.G. here Colo. Bowen has been and is very Active in doing every thing in his power to forward this important bussiness. What Effect it may have upon Mr Corny when he Arrives here and not find the Houses ready, I cannot say, but it has given me more uneasyness than any thing I ever undertook—I should be glad of your Excellencys opinion whether this place upon Paupasquash should be occupied, as the best buildings are there, & it is well Situated for Milk & Vegetables—What other Buildings are not Erected there are to be removed and erected within three miles of this Place—Some difficulty is likewise in the way with regard to Flour. The Goverr of Connecticut has not yet granted liberty to have it brought from that State If it could be purchased in this state (which cannot be done) it would be excessive high—The Gentleman Appointed to make the purchases for the Sick has wrote to Mr Mumford in new London the French Consul there to know if he will Supply him, could it come in that line it would be the cheapest way as he purchases there for the French—If there is any thing further your Excellency thinks can be done in furthering this bussiness I shall be happy to receive your Instructions for I have it much at heart and am much mortified and Chagrined at the Dissapointments I meet with in Executing it—With the greatest Respect I have the Honor to be Your Excellencys Most obedt huml. Sert

Jas. Craik

N.B. The houses now ready were the fleet to Arrive to day would not contain three hundred.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel David Forman, 21 June 1780 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

  Letter not found: to Col. David Forman, 21 June 1780. On 23 June, Forman wrote GW: “I had the Honr of receiveing Your Excely Favr of the 21st last Evening.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 21 June 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Providence June 21. 1780

The General Assembly of this State have passed a resolve to raise the number of men required to compleat their Battallions; and have, I am informed, directed that they be Sent to me to be mustered, and ordered to their destinations. I shall immediately order two or three officers from Colonel Green’s Regiment, with Some Serjeants to receive them here, and put them to the drill. It is probable that they will be Some time collecting, As the first attempt is to enlist them if possible by the

first of July next. I request your Excellencys directions how they are to be forwarded to the Army, and what proportion of them. I do not know that there is one officer here belonging to the regiments with the Army to receive and march the recruits on.
This morning a number of Officers belonging to the Continental Frigates taken by the Enemy at Charles town, arrived here in a Cartel. they inform me that Major General Lincoln, and Capt. Whipple are gone to Philadelphia. from whence they are going home, and will probably be at Head Quarters before this reaches you. General Clinton is said to have gone to Some part of Virginia with a principal part of the Brittish Army—a principal part of their Ships of war are Supposed to have gone to New York. Lord Cornwallis had march’d from Charlestown with about 2000 men towards North Carolin⟨a⟩.
Captain La Touch of the Frigate Hermione has just now been here. He is very desirou⟨s⟩ that a Captain Peter Duville (a native of Canada & well acquainted with the Sea Coast at the Eastward, who was a Lieut. in the Continental Frigate Queen of France and is now a prisoner on Parole) may be exchanged as soon as possible—as Captaine La Touch wishes to have him on board his ship. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedient Servt

W. Heath


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 21 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Dr Sir
Head Qrs Springfield June 21st 1780

I yesterday Evening received Your two Favors of the 19th and was happy to find that a part of Clinton’s Brigade had joined You. I hope

by this time the whole will have got down, or at least all of it except the Regiment detached to Fort Schuyler with provisions. From the immense importance of the post under your direction, I wish, as expressed in my Letter of the 18th, that You may have & keep your force completed to Two thousand Five Hundred efficient Men. This force I hold to be necessary and You will keep it appropriated by a proper distribution, for the defence of the several works, particularly & exclusively of any other duty. This is the Object & the only one for which I wish it to be employed. And From the very embarrassing state of Our provisions; and the evident necessity of economising with respect to it as much as possible—I would not have Your force to consist of a Man more than the number I have mentioned. This has been deemed sufficient and will be to oppose any the Enemy can operate with—and no aid of Militia beyond what may be necessary to make it up to this number, should be called in, but in case of the most pressing emergency. I request You as far as it can be done to save the Salt provision. Whilever we have it in our power Fresh should be used. Our Stores of the former are scanty in the extreme, and to be preserved for occasions when it may not be in our power to procure the latter—or when it might not answer.
The Enemy remain in the same position and have made no movements or alterations in their circumstances. Sir Harry Clinton is said to be on Staten Island with the Troops which came—from the Southward, whose number is variously reported to be from Four to Six Thousand. I cannot yet penetrate their designs. In the present situation of things—the whole of Moylan’s Regiment is essential here. Sheldon’s will certainly be sufficient to furnish reconnoitring & parties of advice to announce the movements & approach of the Enemy in case they proceed to operate up the River.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Jedediah Huntington, 21 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Jedediah

Dr Sir
Head Qrs [Springfield] June 21: 1780

If You hear nothing from me to the Contrary—You will march tomorrow morning by three OClock and join General St Clair with the pennsylvanians at or near Rockaway bridge on the Road from Morris to Pompton You will remain there till You hear further from me. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt sert

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 21 June 1780
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Philadelphia June 21 1780

I have the honour to transmit your Excellency the enclosed Acts of Congress of the 17th & 19th Instant, pointing out the different Measures they have taken for the Support of the southern Army.
Congress cannot but hope that the Measures they have taken, if executed with Punctuality and De[s]patch, will change the Face of Affairs in that Country.
It is submitted to your Excellency, whether it may not be proper that the Infantry of Major Lee’s Corps proceed to join the southern Army.
I have been honored with your Despatches of the 18th Instant, which were immediately laid before Congress, and also communicated to President Reed. I have the Honour to be with every Sentiment of respect your Excelly’s most obedt servant

Sam. Huntington President


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Jones, 21 June 1780
From: Jones, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Dear Sr
[Philadelphia, c.21 June 1780]

I have your favour of the 31st ult. in answer to my several Letters and was then impressed with and still feel great anxiety on account of our public affairs. The present distress is to be ascribed in great part to the resolution not to issue any more Bills of Credit before a sufficiency of money was provided and supplies secured for the Army—had proper precaution been taken in these matters, and the new scheme of Finance been ready for the public consideration, the determination not to increase the quantity of money and the alteration introduced by the new system would not have been so sensibly felt or occasioned the distress in the several Departments they have produced—from these I think we are nearly emerging as the new money is coming into use in the several States and will probably greatly relieve us—But by these and several other proceedings Congress have been gradually surrendering or throwing upon the several States the exercise of powers they should have retained and to their utmost have exercised themselves—untill at length they have scarse a power left but such as concerns foreign Transactions, for as to the Army the Congress is at present little more than the Medium through which the wants of the Army are conveyed to the States—This Body never had or at least in few instances have exercised powers adequate to the purposes of war And such as they had, have been from embarrasment and difficulties frittered away to the States and it will be found I fear very difficult to recover them. A Resolution passed the other day desiring the States to inform us what they had done upon certain requisitions for some time past that we might know what we had to rely on—This may probaly serve as a Basis for assuming powers should the answers afford an opening—other resolutions are now before us by one of them the States are desired to give express powers for calling forth Men provisions money for carrying on the war for the common defence—others go to the assumption of them

imediately—the first I have no doubt will pass this Body but will I expect sleep with the States, the others I believe will dye where they are—for so cautious are some of offending the States in this respect a Gentleman the other day plainly told us, upon a proposition to order some armed vessells to search the vessells going out to prevent the exportation of Flour, that if an Embargo was laid in the Delaware as in this State he consented to the measure, otherwise he never wd agree to such exercise of power.
The Merchant Bankers in this City are making generous exertions to procure and send forward to the Army a Supply of Flour and will afford us great help in that article. The Massachusetts Delegates read us Letters whereby it appears their State have raised 4000 Men for the Army and are embodying 4000 more to be ready if wanting. Gates Weedon and Morgan are ordered to the Southern Department. 5000 Militia are required from Virginia to join that Army and 3000 to be held in readiness—from N. Carolina 4000 and two thousand to be held in readiness—2500 of the Virginia Militia were to march yesterday. By our accounts it would seem that States are somewhat roused from their slumber, but have rejected the Scheme of Finance of the 18th March last wh. I fear will have a bad effect on the Credit of the money of the other States that have agreed to the measure. Governor Jefferson has transmitted us a State of the Virginia Troops taken from the Last returns by wch it appears we have in the different Corps 4011 men in Service to the 30th Sept. & for the War or longer period than the 30th Sept. next, including those captured in Charles Town—This surprises me but the fact appears to be so and where they are or what has become of them is strange. I cannot inform you whether our Legislature have ordered a Draught to fill up the deficiencies as we have no Mail this week from the Southward it stoping at Annapolis for want of a Rider to bring it to this place, the last Rider having quited the Business. with great esteem I am Dr Sr Yr obt hum: servt

Jos: Jones


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Henry Knox, 21 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Knox, Henry

Sir,
[Springfield, 21 June 1780]

There is a large quantity of flour at Trenton which it is of the greatest importance should be forwarded with all possible expedition to the North River. The exigency is so pressing, that the ordinary means of transportation will not suffice, and it will probably be indispensable to have recourse to an impress of waggons. Relying on your judgment and activity I request you will proceed without delay to Trenton, and have an interview with the Governor of this state and with Mr Foreman Quarter Master, on the means now in execution for removing the flour. You know our situation and will judge whether they are sufficient to answer our purpose. If you think they are not you will instantly impress in the neighbouring Counties as well in Pensylvania as the Jerseys such a number of waggons as you judge necessary and will send forward the flour with all dispatch to New Windsor on the North River by the backroute. If possible all the flour ought to be in motion in four days from the present, sending it off successively as the waggons are collected. When you have put this business effectually in train you will without loss of time rejoin the army. Given at Head Quarters June 21st 1780.

P.S. Application has been made to the President of Pensylvania for an aid of 250 waggons—on your arrival at Trenton you will dispatch an express to him to know in what forwardness it is—A party of 20 Horse will attend you.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 22 June 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

No. 1

Sir,
Spring field [N.J.] June 22d 1780 5 OClock.

Mr—— this moment returned from Elizabeth Town, he says that General Clinton with the whole British Army will be in motion this evening He further says that three thousand are to embark for Kings ferry, if the wind and tide favour their designs. The residue of the Army are to March towards Kings ferry by Newark and Slauter dam (a little above Acquackanunk) Their object is to cut off your Excellency from the mouth of the Clove, and prevent your getting into West point.
The Gentleman is to meet the British at the West farms this evening a little back of Newark directly on the back route to Acquackanunck.
The Enemy got intelligence of your Excellency’s march yesterday. They were told that the two Brigades which I have the command of, had taken up their line of march last night and were apprehensive that they would reach Pompton this Night; & escape them. They are to begin their march before dark.
It is probable they are about to move, but I think their route and object very uncertain. I shall watch their motions and give them all the trouble in my power and will duly advertize you of every thing necessary for your information.
I have ordered the Troops to be in readiness to move at a moments warning and sent for the General Officers to fix upon our plan.
The Enemy sent out a small party this afternoon about two miles: they were drove back with the loss of two or three killed and two prisoners.
The Gentleman left the Enemy at 3 O’Clock this afternoon and appears to be in great trepedation.
Major Lee’s observations last night and the reports of other persons coroberate the intelligence of their movement; but it appeared to them uncertain whether they were preparing to come out or to retire.
Major Lee is of opinion they are about to embark. I have the honor to be with great respect Your most Obedt Humble Servant

Nath. Greene Q.M.G.

P.S. I am afraid the account of the prisoners being taken is premature.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 22 June 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Sir
Springfield June 22d 1780 10 oClock P.M.

I have been impatiently waiting in consequence of the intelligence receivd this afternoon from Mr P——l to hear of the Enemys beginning their March. It is now ten oClock and no accounts arrivd from the lines of the least appearance of a movement. The positive manner in which the intelligencer gave in his intelligence and the other circumstances mentioned by Major Lee induced me to believe that the Enemy were about to make some movement and they may still get in motion before morning; but I begin to have some apprehensions whether this movement to the Northward may not be given out with a view of forceing your Excellency as far towards the North River as possible in order to leave an open passage to Trenton.
I do not know what kind of credit is to be given to this Mr P——but he says he is employed by your Excellency and that he is willing to forfiet his life if every thing he tells is not strictly true as far as he can determin from the appearance of things. May not the Enemy be apprised of his being a double spy and indeavor to ploy him off accordingly, in order to mislead our attention. I told him of the consequence of deceiving us, would be nothing less than a forfeiture of his life. He really appeard to be sinsere but I begin to doubt his intelligence.
Col. Dayton is gone down to the lines to get intelligence, but how he will succeed I know not.
The two Prisoners mentioned in my last have since come in, but both so drunk and sulky, that they cannot, or will not, give the least intelligence. The Enemy had three killed several wounded, and two made Prisoners.
Your Excellency may depend upon the earliest intelligence of their motions if they come out and which way they direct their march. The troops and Militia ⟨are all⟩ orderd to lay upon their Arms⟨.⟩ I am in hopes to give a good account of them if they come out. I am with great respect Your Excellencys Most Obed. humble Ser.

Nath. Greene


Title: To George Washington from Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer and Josiah Beall, 22 June 1780
From: Jenifer, Daniel of St. Thomas,Beall, Josiah
To: Washington, George

Sir.
In General Assembly, Annapolis June 22d 1780

The extreme difficulty of embodying and marching the number of Militia required of this State by your Excellency and the Committee of co-operation, the impracticability of marching them in due time, owing to the total want of camp equipage, arms and accoutrements, the difficulty of procuring Waggons and Horses, the approaching harvest and the importance and necessity of securing it, have induced us to lay before your Excellency the following proposition; if it should meet with your approbation, and that of the Committee we will stretch every nerve to carry it speedily into execution.
We propose to exert our utmost endeavours to raise two thousand regulars to serve during the War, fourteen hundred and sixty nine of this number to compleat our battalions according to the late proposed augmentation; the residue we propose to form into a Regiment to act in the place of the Militia required and this State will furnish and fill up the Regiment to its full complement, to join the Continental Army whenever we shall be called on to furnish aid of Militia, and we flatter ourselves, that as long as we furnish our Quota of Regulars and this additional Battalion, that we shall not be required to furnish Militia, unless in cases of extreme exigency.
This plan if generally adopted would put under your Excellency’s direction and command a regular and effecient force, on which you could constantly depend; it would save a great expence to these States in carriage, provisions, arms and accoutrements; it would conduce to reconcile the minds of the people, to the heavy charges of the War, when assured, they should be left at home to cultivate their lands, and reap the fruits of their industry; it would certainly tend to encrease our crops, and afford the means of maintaining a much greater regular Army than can be supported under frequent calls of the Militia; it would in some degree prevent those emigrations of our Men Westward, which is become a very serious and alarming consideration to these States in general, and to this in particular.
If your Excellency on a view of all circumstances should think it more conducive to the public interest to order the fourteen hundred and sixty nine recruits destined to fill up our battalions to join the Army under your immediate command they shall be sent forward with all the dispatch in our power.
If this proposal should meet with your Excellencys approbation, and that of the Committee it will be necessary, we apprehend, to draw from our battalions under the Baron de Kalb, a number of officers, to command, form and discipline these new recruits.

If the two thousand two hundred and five Militia should be thought absolutely necessary and preferable to the plan proposed we will use our utmost endeavours to forward them on, but we fear, however strong our inclination, it will not be in our power to send out that number by the time required. We have the honor to be with the highest respect and attachment Sir your Excellencys, Most Obedient & most hble Servts

Dan. of St Thos Jenifer Prest SenateJosia Beall Speaker ho. del.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Henry Knox, 22 June 1780
From: Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir,
Trenton [N.J.] 4 oClock P.M. 22d June 1780.

I arrived here early this morning, and immediately set myself to execute the matters I had in charge. Governor Livingston has been gone from here two days, and the Legislature adjourned. Col. Furman is here and has exerted himself much. There are here nearly 3000 barrells of flour, some rum and salt. About 250 bbls flour went off by the back route yesterday and to day; and Col. Furman expects 100 two-horse teams in tomorrow, which will take about 500 bbls more. In addition to his pressing demands on the neighbouring counties and a recommendatory act of the Legislature, I have written a circular letter to the magistrates, couched in the most urgent terms, to send in teams tomorrow and next day, and from day to day, until all the flour shall be gone; but not to exceed four days from the date. We have also sent out as many magistrates and constables on horse back as we could see to make an instant impress.
I have also written in strong terms to President Reed, to which I shall receive an answer to night. But by a letter just arrived from him directed to Your Excellency, and which, as I knew by the information of Col. Cox was on the same subject; I took the liberty to open, I am afraid we are not to place much dependence on an instant exertion from that quarter—and which, in case I receive a similar answer from him, will

determine me to detatch the horse to Bucks County, which we think will procure a considerable number of waggons tomorrow and next day.
Col. Cox is here, and will exert himself to the utmost; so that Your Excellency may be assured that every thing that is possible shall be done.
I believe this business will detain me tomorrow—but the moment it is in a proper train I will rejoin the army. I have the honor to be with great respect, Your Excellency’s most obedt hume servt

H. Knox


Title: To George Washington from Robert R. Livingston, 22 June 1780
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Trentown [N.J.] 22d June 1780

My anxiety for the supplies of the army have brought me to this place in order that I might satisfy myself as to the quantity on hand, & the means of forwarding them—Genl Nox has communicated to me your Excellencys orders on this subject—Nothing short of this would I am fully persuaded be of sufficie⟨nt⟩ force to produce the desired effect—And ⟨mutilated⟩ knowledge of them will in a great measure render the execution of them unnecessary—impressed with this Idea, I have been long labouring to bring Congress to assume the power which will enable them to call forth the resources of the States but unhappily without effect—However I hope much from their pressing & reiterated demands. What principally induced me to trouble your Excellency at this time is an apprehention which I, in common with many other gentlemen, entertain of the propriety of leaving the command at West point in the Hands of genl Howe[.] Having no personal acquaintance

with him I can have no prejudices—But the Gent. from the Southward by no means speake so favourably of him as I could wish—But in⟨depe⟩ndent of this I conceive that as he has yet had no opportunity of acquiring a military character—that Confidence which is so necessary to inspire courage especially in militia will I fear be wanting in him—I might presume so far I shd beg leave to submit it to yr Excellency whether this post might not be most safely confided to Genl Arnold whose courage is undoubted—who is the favourite of our militia, & who will agree perfectly with our Govr—Your Excellency will not consider this as designed to convey the most disreflection on Genl Howe, of whom I know nothing but by report which may very possibly be ill grounded—but if the most distant doubt remains in a matter of so much moment I conceive it should be removed—I make no other appology for the liberty I take than the motive that suggests it—Which has before now induced your Excellency to pardon an interference in matters to which I was no ⟨more⟩ competent than the present—This hasty letter is written while the express waits whom I am unwilling to detain longer than while I declare the extream respect & esteem with which I am Your Excellencys Most Obt Hum: Servt

Robt R. Livingston


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 22 June 1780
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philad.—June 22. 1780

Your Excellys Favour of the 19th Inst. requesting 250 Waggons from this State was duly received & Orders have issued accordingly. I fear the Collection of them considering the great Demand by Mr Cornay & other Causes will be more tedious than the Exigency of our Affairs will well admit. The Number of Waggons in this State is most amazingly diminished—the County of Lancaster which formerly returned 1620, now has but 370, & other Counties have fallen off in the same Proportion. The miserable Wages allowed by the United States have occasioned many Farmers to break up their Teams, & proved a very

great Discouragement. The Wages at present are but 6/8 hard Money ⅌ Day: If more adequate Wages could be obtained I am perswaded this Service will go on better. The Quartermasters have several hundred ready made Waggons in the State, for which we could by one Means or other procure Horses if a Union of our Force could be obtained. After they have equipp’d as many Teams as they are able, & we have done the same without drawing from each other, if they could assist us with the Waggons or we them with Horses I imagine we shuld make a very respectable Addition.
I have ever understood, & so I believe the Fact is, that the Deficiency of Transportati[o]n from Trentn does not arise from any other Cause, than a Want of Money to pay the Teams—This is a Want we very sensibly feel here for in the late Scarcity of Beef we disbursed every Shilling we could command, & the Demands of the Quarter Master & Commissary are like Spunges that soak up all new Supplies. The Money allotted by the State for Flour was by Directi[o]n of Congress applied to the Meat, & I very much fear the Consequences of this Division will embarass us. The new Plan of a Bank seemed to go on with great Spirit, & I hope will be continue to do so, as it appears to be the only System which can give timely Aid—but the ⟨Finger⟩ of Party is so manifest that I sometimes have my Doubts. I have given it every Forwardness in my Power, & shall continue to do so whatever my private Opinion of the Designs & Plans & secondary Views may be. I wish the Gentlemen here had done the same with the Money issued by the State, which is acknowledged by themselves to be well secured & yet is most disingenuously evaded & depreciated. Had this seasonable & proper Measure met with des⟨erved⟩ & proper Support, we should now have had 10,000 Bbbles of Flour on Hand, & a proportionate Quantity of Forage besides many other Articles of equal Use.
We have now in the Barracks 50 Recruits & more daily coming in, we think it best to forward them as they arrive & shall assoon as equippd send them off.
Mrs Washingtn does us the Favour of lodging with us & was very well last Evening. I am with great Respect & Regard Dear Sir Your most Obed. & Affect. Hbble Servt

Jos: Reed


Title: To George Washington from Caesar Rodney, 22 June 1780
From: Rodney, Caesar
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Dover [Del.] June 22d 1780.

In Consequence of the Requisitions of Congress, the Committee of Co-operation, and your Excellency, transmitted to me and laid before the General Assembly of this State, I beg Leave to inform your Excellency, that they have passed the following Acts—An Act for furnishing the Continental Treasury with One Hundred and Thirty Two Thousand Eight Hundred Dollars by Loan on the Credit of the State—An Act for immediately embodying three hundred and fifteen of the Militia of this State for the Purpose of reinforcing the Army of the United States, to continue in Service until the first Day of November next, unless sooner discharged—An Act for procuring an immediate Supply of Provisions, Waggons, Horses &c. within this State for the Army of the United States. The above are the only Acts passed during their Sitting that I think necessary to make your Excellency acquainted with. At the Request of the General Assembly, I have inclosed you a Copy of a Resolution entered into by them. I am, with the highest Esteem and Respect, Your Excellency’s most Obedt humble Servt

Cæsar Rodney

P.S. The General Assembly of this State adjourned Yesterday to the Twentieth of October next.


Title: To George Washington from Francis Van Dyke, 22 June 1780 [letter not found]
From: Van Dyke, Francis
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Francis Van Dyke, 22 June 1780. On 10 July, GW wrote Van Dyke: “I have recd yours of the 22d 28th and 29th last month” (DLC:GW).


Title: Editorial Note
From:
To:

GW suspected that British commander in chief Henry Clinton would immediately launch an offensive in the Hudson River region upon returning from South Carolina with part of his army. GW’s intelligence led him to believe that Clinton’s objective would be the strategically important post of West Point. When he learned that the British commander had returned to New York City, GW ordered the commanding officer at West Point to prepare for an attack; he already had ordered the New York brigade to reinforce the Massachusetts brigades defending West Point. GW also remained wary of a thrust toward Morristown by the corps under German lieutenant general Wilhelm von Knyphausen at Elizabethtown Point, New Jersey. To provide for both contingencies, GW placed Maj. Gen. Nathanael Greene in command of a two-brigade corps to watch Knyphausen and defend the routes to Morristown, while he moved the remainder of the main army north to be closer to West Point. In addition to the brigades of brigadier generals William Maxwell and John Stark, Greene’s force included the dragoons of Maj. Henry Lee, Jr.’s partisan corps and all the New Jersey militia then in the field.
According to his memoirs, Clinton had formulated a plan to attack GW upon his return from South Carolina, but the attack was not to be against West Point, as GW anticipated. Clinton envisioned a “coup de main” against GW in New Jersey. Clinton’s intention was to “seize upon their grand depot of military stores at Morristown and capture or disperse the force that covered them.” If he could achieve this goal, “not only every plan of cooperation with their expected French reinforcement must be disconcerted, but other happy consequences would probably follow that might ultimately lead even to a general submission of the whole continent.” His design called for a two-pronged attack: “my plan was to direct Lieutenant General Knyphausen to hold a sufficient corps in readiness to be crossed to Elizabeth Town Point the instant the fleet from Charleston arrived at Sandy Hook, and to cause the troops that accompanied me in it to be thrown on shore at the same time at Amboy.” By striking northwest in concert along different routes, Clinton would force GW to battle one or the other column or risk being

attacked by both. If GW engaged one corps, the other might get behind him and take the magazines at Morristown. If GW remained at Morristown he would be defeated by overwhelming numbers.
Knyphausen’s attack into New Jersey on 7 June deranged Clinton’s scheme. He could no longer count on surprise. Upon his return to New York on 17 June, he learned of Knyphausen’s attack. Two days later, he crossed over to Staten Island and then to Elizabethtown Point. As he later recalled: “I found matters there just as I apprehended, the militia all embodied and [Knyphausen] in a manner driven back to Elizabeth Town, menaced by a considerable force that held him at bay. … This was certainly a very unpleasant and mortifying situation, which entirely precluded every idea of the enterprise I had in contemplation.” Given this new situation he could only watch for a “favorable opening for obtaining a partial advantage over the enemy” that would allow him “to draw the King’s troops out of the Jersies without affront.” After his inspection, Clinton returned to New York on 20 June to await GW’s next move.
On 22 June, Clinton learned of the movement of GW’s main army north toward the Rockaway River. On that date British officer Archibald Robertson wrote in his diary: “Sir Henry left York early, went to Staten Island, had information that Washington with all but two Brigades of his Army had moved in Divisions (the first the 18th) to pass the [Smith’s] Clove by Sovereigns [i.e. Suffran’s] to West Point, upon which Sir Henry gave orders for all the Troops on Staten Island that came from the southward to reembark on Board their Several Transports.”
Clinton’s new plan called again for a two-pronged attack: one into New Jersey against Greene’s rear guard force and the other up the Hudson River to land a corps between GW’s main army and West Point. Clinton explained in his memoir how he “directed all the troops” brought from the south “re-embarked as quickly as possible, except the Queen’s Rangers, which I added to the corps in the Jersies. And I desired Major General [Edward] Mathew, supported by Lieutenant General Knyphausen, to advance and attack the rear of Mr. Washington’s army, which had turned toward the Clove on the arrival of the fleet from Charleston. This was done partly with a view of retarding the march of the American army in order to give time for the Carolina detachment to get up the North River and, by landing on its western bank, rapidly strike between the enemy and his object.” Clinton intended for the corps from South Carolina to land near Nyack and intercept the march of GW’s army.
By three in the morning on 23 June, GW, with the main army at Rockaway Bridge, had received Greene’s two warnings of the evening before that the British on Staten Island appeared ready to attack, although their objective was uncertain. Mathew began his attack about five that

morning. Col. Elias Dayton and Lee, who commanded the forward troops near Elizabeth, N.J., reported the attack to Greene, who conveyed the information to GW at 6:00 A.M. By half past six GW could hear cannon fire, but he held his brigades at Rockaway Bridge until more information arrived from Greene.
Lee, with his dragoons and the pickets, and Dayton, with his regiment of New Jersey Continentals, began a fighting retreat. After Mathew’s brigade had moved out, Knyphausen pushed additional troops up the road toward Connecticut Farms. When the German general split his force, Lee opposed Mathew’s right-hand column on Vauxhall Road and Dayton opposed Knyphausen’s left-hand column on Galloping Hill Road. Knyphausen planned to use Mathew’s column to turn Greene’s left flank. With no message from Greene since 6:00 A.M., GW sent his aide-de-camp David Humphreys to Springfield to assess and report on the situation.
Greene had quickly devised a sound defensive plan. He suspected that the German general would try to move around his left flank, and he sent Col. Matthias Ogden with the 1st New Jersey Regiment to support Lee’s corps. With his remaining troops, Greene planned a three-tiered defense of Galloping Hill Road. As he later explained to GW, he posted a regiment behind each of the two bridges in Springfield. The remainder of his two brigades he placed on high ground behind the town. He stationed the militia on the flanks.
Fighting soon ensued as Knyphausen’s brigades approached these defensive positions and tried to push through them toward the Hobart Gap behind Springfield. In his diary, Ensign Jeremiah Greenman of the 2d Rhode Island Regiment described this fighting: “we marched into Springfield near the Meating house, from where our Regt. was ordered to advance & take Command of a Small Orchard, the Enemy at the same time advancing sum scattering fires took place & a few Shot from sum of the Enemies field peases was fired into town after which the Enemy retired the firing seased, but we soon found they was again advancing in two Colloms / a New Disposion was made of our Troops / our Regt. was then ordered to take post at a bridge by a Small Brook which we thought was not pasable onley by the Bridge as it appear’d Slowey [sloughy] and Swampy on Each Side, a field peace was posted on a hill jest in our Rear, our Right wing on the Right of the Bridge & the Left wing on the Left of the Bridge (where we thought the Enemy must all pass) / a firing of musquets immeadiately took place by the Enemies Right Collom advancing for the other part of the Town. … we then discovered their Left Collom approaching us very fast / the feald pice back of us played very briskly on them—the Enemy opn’d with 5 field peaces on the one which they compeled to retire with the Los of a Capt.

& a few men / they levil’d them at our Regt. & by this time their Infentry was not more than a Musquet Shot from us & advancing very fast for the Bridge / their Light Troops chifeley yaugers [jägers] advanced for the Brook & each flank which they soon gained / the Musquetry at the same time playing very smartly on the Bridge / they being so far Superiour in Number they crosed it, & sun [soon] [were] considerable in the Rear of the Right wing when they retired, the left wing having advantagious Ground fought them on a Retreat forming at every fence & Noll.”
Knyphausen’s and Mathew’s numbers forced Lee and Ogden on the left and Greene on the right to retreat, but Lee held the bridge north of Springfield against Mathew’s column long enough for Greene to establish a new defensive position in the foothills of the Watchung Mountains, close to where Vauxhall and Galloping Hill roads met in front of the Hobart Gap. Greene was then able to send two additional regiments to support Lee and Ogden. With Greene’s brigades in such a strong position, Knyphausen broke off his own and Mathew’s attacks. Clinton later wrote that Greene’s position was “judged to be too respectable to encourage any further attempts.” On Clinton’s orders, Knyphausen retreated to his defenses at Elizabethtown Point, but not before burning Springfield. Greene sent the militia to harass Knyphausen’s flanks and rear, and he dispatched Stark’s brigade and Lee’s dragoons to pursue the retreating British.
  GW had not been idle during this combat at Springfield. He anticipated that Greene would need support against Knyphausen’s overwhelming numbers, but he had to mind the threat of Clinton’s unlocated force. GW detached Brig. Gen. Anthony Wayne’s brigade to march to Chatham, N.J., to support Greene by hitting Knyphausen’s right flank. Probably after receiving Greene’s first letter of 23 June, GW began marching the remaining brigades, led by St. Clair’s division, south toward Whippany, New Jersey.
GW probably knew nothing of the situation at Springfield for most of the day. Humphreys sent a report to GW at 11:00 A.M., but the message was delayed, probably because no dragoon was available to carry the letter. Hearing nothing from Humphreys, GW apparently decided to dispatch a second aide, Richard Kidder Meade, this time with an escort of dragoons. Sometime after 5:00 P.M., GW learned from Humphreys that Greene’s brigades had blunted Knyphausen’s attack. Meade wrote GW at 4:00 P.M. that he had observed Knyphausen’s troops retiring toward Elizabethtown Point with Greene’s men in pursuit. The dragoons with Meade almost certainly got this information to GW with more speed than the messages from Humphreys.

Sometime before receiving Wayne’s report of 8:00 P.M. from Chatham, GW learned about Knyphausen’s retreat. Wayne warned GW that Knyphausen’s force had retreated to Elizabethtown Point and that the troops lately arrived from Charleston had embarked on the Hudson and might be headed upriver to get behind GW. By staying west of the Watchung Mountains, GW could minimize the threat from Clinton’s troops on the Hudson. He had arrived with the main army at Whippany by 11:00 P.M. From that road junction, GW could march either to Springfield or to Bottle Hill and Chatham if Knyphausen returned.
Knyphausen did not renew the attack. On the morning of 24 June, he passed his troops over the bridge of boats to Staten Island and then took up the bridge. Clinton’s projected attack on GW’s main army never developed. A lack of naval assistance delayed the re-embarkation of his troops from South Carolina. Once embarked and sailing up the Hudson, Clinton’s corps found no target. GW kept the brigades of his main army well back from the river and west of the Watchung Mountains.
Fighting in the Battle of Springfield was nearly as heavy as in the Battle of Connecticut Farms two weeks earlier. American losses—thirteen killed, forty-nine wounded, and nine missing—nearly matched those of the earlier battle. Col. Israel Angell’s regiment, which had defended the first bridge in Springfield, sustained the majority of the casualties. The British officially reported their losses as fourteen killed, seventy-four wounded, and six missing. British staff officer Archibald Robertson recorded similar numbers in his diary. Other accounts suggest higher losses. Continental surgeon James Thacher, who was in Stark’s brigade, reported finding fifteen bodies during the brigade’s pursuit of Knyphausen, and observers reported seeing the British carry off “eight or ten wagon-loads of dead and wounded.” Clinton himself later wrote: “The loss sustained by the King’s troops in the course of this fruitless excursion was rather more considerable than could have been well apprehended, and much exceeded what my present strength could afford.”
GW’s judicious dispositions and movements had prevented a defeat, but Greene, with only a weak rear-guard corps, had been unable to prevent the destruction of Springfield. Nevertheless, Greene’s tenacious defense of the town and the Hobart Gap and GW’s refusal to be lured east of the mountains defeated Clinton’s plan. Although they maintained their outposts at Paulus Hook and Bull’s Ferry, the British never again attempted an invasion of New Jersey.


Title: I. To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 23 June 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Spring field June 23d 17806 oClock A.M.
Sir

The Enemy are out and on their march towards this place in full force, having receivd a considerable reinforcement last night, as Capt. Dayton says he was desird by Major Lee to inform me.
Col. Dayton this moment sends me intelligence, that the Enemy’s Artillery and baggage are on the Newark Road, and the Troops pushing out this way, are to cover them. If this is true we shall hear more about it soon. The Troops are all getting under Arms. The Enemy give out, that they are going to establish a Post in the Country. I am Your Excellencys most Obedient humble Sert

Nath. Greene M.G.


Title: IV. To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel David Humphreys, 23 June 1780
From: Humphreys, David
To: Washington, George

Heights near SpringfieldJune 23 [17]80 11 OClock A.M.
Sir

General Greene, directs me to inform your Excellency, that from the best intelligence he is able to obtain, the Enemy are now out in force, with seventeen Pieces of Artillery—At first they made a demonstration of acting on his right; and large parties were seen from the heights of Springfield filing off in that direction: A considerable Column, in the mean time advanced on his left, where Major Lee with a body of Militia was posted, between whom & the Enemy there was some skirmishing without any considerable effect.
After having spent two or three hours, in various maneouvres apparently with a design of gaining our flanks, they of a sudden contracted their front, and pushed a Column up the main road to Springfield, where a sharp action ensued for a short time, between some Detachments, which were posted to cover our Artillery in the height, and their Advance—Our troops retreated in Order, and brought off the field Peices.
The troops are advantageously posted to annoy the Enemys

progress—and General Greene is determined to dispute every inch of strong ground with them: Indeed they must have been very much galled before they got possession of Springfield, as they recd several very heavy & well directed fires fro⟨m⟩ Angels & Shreeve’s Regts which behaved with the greatest gallantry.
The firing has now principally ceased, the loss on either side cannot be ascertaind. On ours it is not great—Several of our wounded are brought off—A Dragoon Horse of the Detachment which escorted General Greene was kill’d with a Cannon shot—I have heard of no Officers kill’d & but few slightly wounded—they have this moment set fire to two or three buildings—how far the conflagration will extend I know not—In the greatest haste—I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obed. Hble Servt

D. Humphrys


Title: V. To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Richard Kidder Meade, 23 June 1780
From: Meade, Richard Kidder
To: Washington, George

Sir
[Springfield, 23 June 1780] 4 o Clock P.M.

as I advanced, from the information I receved it became proper to alter the route given me by your Excellency & also to keep the party of horse together. I am now on the hill where Baron Steubens Qrs were (Caldwells former house)—the Enemy a little in front retiring, after leaveing I think only two houses standing in the Town—I have seen Genl Greene who will act with great caution, but at the same time harrass the rear of the Enemy with the militia, & such Troops as are not too much fatigued. On my way down I saw persons from & near New ark & cannot learn that any of the Enemy have moved that way—Genl Greenes information confirms this acco’t—I shall however while I remain, pay proper attention to that point—I do not find any other matter to mention to Yr Excy—except that I am told our officers & men have behaved equal to your most sanguine expectations. The firing becomes more & more distant, I shall close this, & follow Genl Greene, & lose no time in giving you any thing material that may occur. I have the honor to be Yr Excellencys most Obet & hum. se[rv]t

R. K. Meade A.D.C.

I took rather a circuitous route which, with the Dragoons being fatigued, kept me so long on the road.


Title: VI. To George Washington from Major General Stirling, 23 June 1780
From: Stirling, Lord (né William Alexander)
To: Washington, George

Mr Blanchards Hanover [N.J.]June 23d 1780 9 oClo. P.M.
Dear Sir

Just as I was Setting out this Morning to Join your Excellency I had Intellignce that the Enemy were out and Advanceing to Springfeild. I immediately wrote to the Commdg Officers of the Militia from Burlington to near Easton (and dispatched Messengers with the letters open), desired them to push down to Turkey for further orders, wrote Genl Greene what I had done, that he might in Case the Enemy retired to send them Counter orders, I then Came thro’ part of Morris County to Chatham to see If I could be of any use in that Quarter. I there met with Genl Wilkenson & Charles Stewart who assured me that the Enemy after advanceing to Springfeild and burning also every house there, had retired, the last I can find of their rear, had passed the four Mile Stone from Elizabeth Town on full Trot, some Militia had got in their rear and others attending their flanks as regular as their flanking parties; in their approach they were early Skirmished with, they were Checked for some time at Connecticut farms, the Bridge of Springfeild was nobly Contended for near 40 Minutes, the fork of the road near Cammels Mills was so well disputed as to stop the further progress of the Enemy’s Right Collumn In Short in every part, our troops Continental and Militia have behaved Gloriously, and have made the Enemy pay dearly for their Jaunt. Genl Wilkenson informd me, that Genl Greene had Intelligence that all the Enemys flanking Companies were to Embark last Night. I saw six Brittish & Yaugers prisoners at Chatham who all agreed that Genl Kniphausen Commanded this day, I suspect Sir Harry means

to make some lively Stroke above you. I met Genl Wayne near Chatham wh⟨ere he⟩ intends to wait your Excellencys further ⟨orders⟩.
I shall be on to Join your Excellencys early in the Morning. and am most Sincerely your Excellency Most Humble Servant

Stirling,


Title: VIII. From George Washington to Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 23 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

Dr Sir,
Whippany [N.J., 23 June 1780] 11 OClock P.M.

Some time before the recpt of yr favor I was informed that the Enemy had returned to their Station, at E. T. point—It is certainly difficult if not impossible to ascertain their views. I however all things considered wish to keep our force as compact as possible, & therefore wish you if you find in the morning that the Enemy are quiet or gone over to Staten Island to return by the same route you marched to day.


Title: X. To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 24 June 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Sir
Elizabeth Town [N.J.] June 24. 1780

It is positively asserted that the Troops that were out yesterday were the same which were out before, with the addition of a Corps of light Infantry. It is said Sir Harry Clinton was not out, but was busily employed in preparing for the embarkation of the South Carolina Troops, and that they are actually bound up the North River. Perhaps with a design of possessing the heights round the works, knowing that our regular force is small, and that Militia ⟨are⟩ not well calculated to dispossess them—Fro⟨m the pr⟩esent complexion of intelligence the North River appears ⟨mutilated⟩ the object.
Would Your Excellency wish that General Wayne should march by the directest route to West Point, and endeavour to prevent the Enemy from getting footing upon any of the Hills near the works? or would you wish that the Brigade should join the Main Army? General Wayne left his Brigade this Morning before my Letter reached him, which will prevent him from putting his Brigade in motion—I beg your Excellencys further direction, both with respect to the Brigade under General Wayne and the two Brigades under my immediate command. I have the honor to be Your Excellencys Most Obedient & Humble Servant

Nath. Greene M.G.

P.S. Major Lee has just reported that he has taken a small quantity of St⟨ores⟩ and a Number of Prisoners this Mor⟨ning⟩ I can hear nothing fu[r]ther respecting the Enemies going up Hackensack River; I have employed a person to reduce it to a certainty.


Title: XI. To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 24 June 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Springfield June 24th 1780.

I have been too busily employed untill the present moment, to lay before your Excellency the transactions of yesterday.
The Enemy advanced from Elizabeth Town about five in the morning, said to be about five thousand Infantry with a large body of Cavalry and fifteen or twenty pieces of Artillery. Their march was rapid and compact. They moved in two columns, one on the main road leading to Springfield, the other on the Vauxhall road. Major Lee with the horse and pickets opposed the right column, and Colonel Dayton with his Regiment the left, and both gave as much opposition as could have been expected from so small a force. Our troops were so extended, to guard the different roads leading to the several passes over the mountain, that I had scarcely time to collect them at Springfield and make the necessary dispositions before the Enemy appeared before the Town; when a cannonade commenced between their Advance and our Artillery posted for the defence of the bridge. The enemy continued manœuvring in our front for upwards of two hours, which induced me to believe they were attempting to gain our flanks. My force was small, and from the direction of the roads my situation was critical. I disposed of the troops in the best manner I could, to guard our flanks, secure a retreat, and oppose the advance of their columns. Colo. Angell with his Regiment and several small detachments and one piece of Artillery was posted to secure the bridge in front of the Town, Colo. Shrieve’s Regt was drawn up at the second bridge to cover the retreat of those posted at the first, Major Lee with his Dragoons and the Pickets commanded by Capt. Walker was posted at Littles bridge on the Vaux hall road; and Colo. Ogden was detached to support him. The remainder of Genl Maxwells and Stark’s brigades were drawn up on the high grounds at the Mill, The Militia were on the flanks. Those under the command of Genl Dickinson made a spirited attack upon one of the Enemy’s flanking parties, but his force was too small to push the advantage he had gained.
While the Enemy were making demonstrations to their left, their

right column advanced on Major Lee. The bridge was disputed with great obstinacy, and the Enemy must have recieved very considerable injury, but by fording the river and gaining the point of the hill they obliged the Major with his party to give up the pass. At this instant of time their left column began the attack on Coll Angell, the action was severe and lasted about forty minutes, when superior numbers overcame obstinate bravery, and forced our troops to retire over the second bridge. Here the Enemy were warmly recieved by Coll Shrieve’s Regt; but as they advanced in great force, with a large train of Artillery he had orders to join the Brigade.
As the Enemy continued to press our left on the Vaux hall road, which lead directly into our rear and would have given them the most important pass; and finding our front too extensive to be effectually secured by so small a body of troops, I thought it most adviseable to take post upon the first range of hills in the rear of Bryants tavern, where the roads are brought so near to a point that succour might readily be given from one to the other. This enabled me to detach Colo. Webb’s regt, commanded by Lt Colonel Huntington, and Colo. Jackson’s Regt with one piece of Artillery which entirely checked the advance of the Enemy on our left & secured that pass.
Being thus advantageously posted I was in hopes the Enemy would have attempted to gain the heighths, but discovering no disposition in them for attacking us, and seeing them begin to fire the houses in Town, detachments were ordered out on every quarter to prevent their burning any building not immediately under the command of their cannon and musquetry. In a few minutes they had set fire to almost every house in Town and began their retreat. Capt. Davis with a detachment of One hundred & twenty men—several smaller parties with a large body of militia fell upon their rear and flanks and kept up a continual fire upon them, till they entered Elizabeth Town, which place they reached about sun set. Stark’s brigade was immediately put in motion on the first appearance of a retreat which was so precipitate that they were not able to overtake them.
The Enemy continued at Elizabeth Town point untill 12 o’Clock at night, and then began to cross their troops to Staten Island, by six this morning they had totally evacuated the point and removed their bridge. Major Lee fell in with their rear guard, but they were so covered by their works, that little or no injury could be done them He made some refugees prisoners and took some stores which they abandoned to expedite their retreat.
I have the pleasure to inform your Excellency that the troops who were engaged behaved with great coolness and intrepidity and the whole of them discovered an impatience to be brought into action. The

good order and discipline which they exhibited in all their movements, do them the highest honor. The Artillery under the command of Lt Colonel Forest was well served—I have only to regret the loss of Capt. Lt Thompson who fell at the side of his piece by a cannon ball.
It is impossible to fix with certainty the Enemy’s loss, but as there was much close firing and our troops advantageously posted, they must have suffered very considerably.
I herewith enclose your Excellency a return of our killed wounded and missing which I am happy to find is much less than I had reason to expect from the heavy fire they sustained.
I am at a loss to determine what was the object of the Enemy’s expedition. If it was to injure the troops under my command, or to penetrate further into the Country, they were frustrated. If it was the destruction of this place it was a disgracefull one. I lament that our force was too small to save the town from ruin. I wish every American could have been a spectator, they would have felt for the sufferers and joined to revenge the injury.
I cannot close this letter without acknowledging the particular service of Lt Colo. Barber who acted as Deputy Adjt Genl and distinguish’d himself by his activity in assisting to make the necessary dispositions. I have the honor to be With the most perfect respect & esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant

Nath. Greene Maj. Genel

There were a considerable number of prisoners made but as they went on to Morris I have had no return of them.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Claibourne, 23 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Claibourne, Richard

Sir
[Rockaway Bridge, N.J., 23 June 1780]

You will proceed forthwith to Morris Town and inform your self of the measures taken to remove the stores and baggage of the army from Morris and from Succussunni toward Sussex Court house and the North River and you will take such additional measures as appear necessary to remove them effectually and with the greatest expedition. The flour and salted meat except what the Commissaries think necessary for the dayly consumption of the army will go to New-Windsor on the North River—the military and other stores requisite for the Campaign to sussex, and if there are any articles which will not probably be useful in the Campaign they will best be at Easton. But in these directions I only mean to supply what may be wanting in General Greenes, not to contravene his; for a plan having been previously settled with him in the spirit of these instructions, his directions for the execution are to be followed. You will make a point to have the most valuable stores whether in the Quarter Master’s or in the Commissary’s departments first removed.
To enable you to execute these orders you will be furnished with a party of Twenty horse and You are hereby fully empowered to impress as many teams and other carriages as you think necessary I rely absolutely on your known zeal and activity. Given at Head Quarters Rockaway June 23d 1780.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel David Forman, 23 June 1780
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

Sir
Freehold [N.J.] 23d June 1780

I had the Honr of receiveing Your Excely Favr of the 21st last Evening, wherein your Excly expreses an Opinion that Sr Henry Clintons Object at prest is West Point—My Want of knoledge of that place hardly permits my Attempting to form a Judgement of the Appeara⟨n⟩cees that might indicate an Attack—Yet the Mind will on ⟨su⟩tch Important Subjects Attempt forming a Judgt—My Last Inf⟨or⟩mation to Your Excly was that report said a Number of Sr Harrys ⟨flee⟩t had gone up the North River without Stoping at New York—⟨mutilated⟩ report preveild here Untill yesterday—When a Gent. from below ⟨w⟩hose Attachment I am well Assured—Informed me that a Number ⟨of⟩ the Troops from Carolina ware Landed on Stratin Island—he ⟨g⟩ave full Credit to the report—and allthough he got it from the disaffected Imagined full confidence might be giveon the report.
the Encloseed Diary down to Tewsday Evening will Inform Your Excly that at Least all the British Ships of Considerable force are gone to Sea or Laying at the Hook—from an opinio⟨n⟩ that I have recd that Ships of War would be absolutely Necessary to Sir Henry Clintons Attack on West point Induced me to give Credit to the Acct of his Troops Landing on Stratin Island & to Imagine Nothing was Immideately intended up the North river.
On Tewsday Evening last about 150 of the refugees Landed in this County—They Took Ten of the Inhabitents from there Houses and Plundered them of Every thing and drove ⟨o⟩ff a Considerable Number of Stock—Before they Got off they ware Attacked by the Militia—they retook all the Stock and report Says killed and wounded Several—the Enemy Took off there Prisoners and all there portable p [l]under—The Militia Took one prisone⟨r⟩.
On his Examination he Confesses he is not a Soldier—Neither was he to receive any pay—that there Sole Business Was to take ⟨a⟩ Number of the Inhabitents from there Houses and to Plunder & that the plunder Was to be divideed amongst them—The fact is they ware properly a Marauding Gang—Genl Sir William How while the British Army Lay in this State published an order declaring all persons Not uniformed

& Acting without a Commissioned Officer if Taken Should be hang’d Immediately As Marauders.
Some Sutch Example is I am Sure Necessary in this part of the Country to deter that Class of People—or property Can No Longer be secure for a Night—My Next dispatch shall Cover for Your Excly perusal the Prisoners Confession at Large on Which I shall be happy to have Your Excly opinion and if Agreeable to the rules of War prisoners Taken in that way sho⟨uld⟩ be Executed Beg your Excly direct Sutch Order—Docr Campbe⟨ll⟩ the Bareers Impatience to Set out Will not permit my Copy⟨ing⟩ the Prisoners Examination. I have the Honr to be Your Excly Obdt Humble Servt

David Forman


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 23 June 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General,
Providence June 23d 1780

Enclosed is paragraph of an act of the Honorable the General Assembly of the State of Rhode Island passed at their last session.
The motive for making the disposition proposed is the much greater ease in obtaining the recruits if to be formed by themselves, as many are averse to being incorporated with the blacks. this disposition I do not think myself authorised to make without your Excellencys approbation and direction. If you should approve of the measure, I beg leave

to Submit the sending such officers from Colo. Angels Regiment as your Excellency may judge necessary to march the men on. It will be necessary to retain the music of Colo. Green’s Regiment. I beg your Excellency answer to this as soon as may be convenient. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys most obedient Servt

W. Heath

P.S. General Glover has just come to Town on his way to the Army—He left Boston on Wednesday last—the day before (Tuesday) it was reported in Boston that a Cartel from Halifax had arrived at Portsmouth New Hampshire—by Some of the People it was said that a fleet was off Halifax Supposed to be French—that the inhabitants were much alarmed and that a Cutter had been dispatched to New York with the news. this may be without foundation.

W.H.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Robert Howe, 23 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, Robert

Dr Sir
Hd Qrs Rockaway Brige [N.J.] June 23. 1780

Your Letter of the 20th reached me this morning. The principal part of the army yesterday marched to this place—Last night I received a letter from General Greene who commands the corps near the enemy containing the following paragraph, “Mr——this moment returned from Elizabeth Town. He says that General Clinton with the whole British army will be in motion this evening; that three thousand are to embark for Kings ferry, if the wind and tide favour their design. The residue of the army are to march towards Kings ferry by Newark and Slaterdam (a little above Aquakanunck) Their object is to cut you off

from the mouth of the Clove and prevent your getting into West Point.” This morning the British army are in motion accordingly, and seem to be moving in two bodies one towards Newark the other towards Springfield.
There is one point I think of essential importance in your arrangemen⟨ts⟩—the distribution of your magazines to the different works that each may have provision and water and stores sufficient to stand a siege. The nature of the post is such that each work depends very much upon itself—nor is the communication from one to another as well secured as might be wished. The advanced works in particular ought to be well provided. I should be glad each of these might have within itself a sufficiency of every thing for a defence of at least sixty days; even if this should be done at the expence of the interior posts which will have the benefit of the supplies dayly coming in. I am with great regard Sir Your most obed. ser.


Title: General Orders, 24 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters Whippany [N.J.] Saturday June 24th 1780
Parole  CountersignsWatchword

The General Court martial whereof Brigadier General Hand is president will meet tomorrow morning nine o clock at Morristown and will continue sitting from day to day unless especially adjourned by the President.
The General Officers directed to meet yesterday to settle a dispute of rank between Colonels Hazen and Livingston will meet this day at twelve o clock at the house on the forks of the road near Head Quarters.
At a General Court martial held by order of the Honorable Board of War the 19th May at Philadelphia Major Nichols President. Captain Lieutenant Godfrey of the Artillery and Artificers was tried “First For stopping two Shillings and fourpence for five months Stores more than the Price stipulated by the State.
“Secondly. For drawing thirteen days subsistence money for six men then deserted and converting the money to his own use.
“Thirdly For drawing one Month’s Pay for the detachment under his command at Carlisle Twelve months ago and not paying them.

“Fourthly For detaining from the officers and men of the company out of three months stores vizt April May & June the following Articles ⅌ man—one pint of Rum, one pound of Sugar, Half a pound of Tobacco, one ounce of Tea, quarter of a pound of Soap and half a pound of Coffee.
“Fifthly for treating Captain Coren in an ungentlemanlike manner at sundry times.”
The Court are of opinion that Captain Lieutenant Godfrey is not Guilty of the first second third and fourth Charges therefore acquit him: But they are of opinion he is Guilty of the Fifth charge, being a breach of Sect. 7 Article 1st of the Articles of War and sentenced to be reprimanded by the Commanding Officer privately.
Captain Coren was tried at the same Court “for appointing Lieutenants to his Company and ordering them to be obey’d as such and for signing a false order for rations by drawing for Four subalterns when he had but one in his company” Pleads Guilty.
The Court are of opinion he is guilty of a breach of part of Section 5th Article 1st of the Articles of War therefore sentence him accordingly.
The Commander in Chief approves the sentences and orders them carried into execution. when that against Captain Lieutenant Godfrey has taken Place he is to be released from Arrest.

After Orders June 24th ½ Past 11 o clock P.M.
The 1st and 2nd Pennsylvania and Hand’s Brigades march by the Left tomorrow morning 5 o clock for Pumpton Plains where they are to Halt ’till further orders. The Park will move at the same time in the order already pointed out.


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 24 June 1780
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Sir,
War office [Philadelphia] June 24. 1780

The Board have the honor to inclose the extract of a letter from Genl Woodford, respecting the situation of his health, and his desire to be removed to a more Northerly climate: as the Board are satisifed of the truth of what the General alledges, they are much surprized that Sir Harry Clinton should be so wanting to humanity as to refuse so reasonable a request.
The terms on which the General Officers of the Enemy have been favored with indulgences, are best known to your Excellency, to whom the Board beg leave to submit the case of Genl Woodford. I have the honor to be with the highest respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

by ord.Ben. Stoddert secy


Title: To George Washington from the Committee at Headquarters, 24 June 1780
From: Committee at Headquarters
To: Washington, George

sir
In Committee of Congress Morris Town June 24: 1780

We recieved your favor of the 23 Inst. yesterday about four oClock. We paid an immediate attention to it, as appears by the inclosed letter to the States.
The Stores will be nearly all removed from hence this Evening, except such as are necessary for the detachment of the army at the Short hills.
We propose joining your Excellency as soon as Genl Schuyler returns, whom we hourly expect. We are sir with the highest respect & Esteem Yr Excys most Obedt serts

Jno. MathewsNathl Peabody


Title: To George Washington from Major General Robert Howe, 24 June 1780
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Highlands [N.Y.] 24th June [1780]

I have received your Excellency’s Letters, which the Hurry I am in, will I hope excuse my not being able to answer fully—Those Measures which you recommend that have not already been executed, shall be carried into Effect with all possible Expidition—what you have said in one of yours relative to Verplank’s & stony Points, will I am much afraid in our present Situation if literally complied with, be attended with Inconveniences to this Post—Our Situation requires that they should not only alarm us, but check the Progress of the Enemy—I had refered this to the General Officers who were unanimously of Opinion that those Works should be maintain’d even at the Risk of the Garrisons—I laid it before them again & they reiterated the Opinion upon me in still stronger Terms—Major Genl McDougal—Brigadiers Clinton, Poor & Patterson compos’d the Council—The Works are in a very defensible State—the Officers brave—the Men in good Spirits, & if the Works should be lost in the Result, they will give us the Time we want, & be sold I am persuaded for more than they are worth—it would not be proper to go fully into this Matter by Letter, even if I had Time, but there are such Reasons for it, as induce me to unite my Opinion with that of the Council—your Excellency will direct as you please, & be so obliging as to let me hear from you upon the Subject immediately. I inclose you Sir, Letters I have received from Governor Trumbul and

Mr Adams & Mr Gerry—I had sent to forbid the immediate March of the Troops they speak of, but upon the Intelligence you give me, & what I have myself received, should think they had better be put in Motion—it would take some Time to collect them, & a Countermand if you chuse it, may in Season prevent their Approach—This Measure also the Generals recommend, as they think with great Propriety those Bodies are easier sent back than put in Motion. To benefit Service is my utmost Pride, & the ultimate End I aim at—any Errors I commit therefore will be the Result of the best Intentions. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect & Regard your Excellency’s most obedient Humble Servant

Robert Howe

P.S. Please return the inclosed Letters, as I have not had Time to copy them.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Meredith and Thomas Barclay, 24 June 1780
From: Meredith, Samuel,Barclay, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Trenton 24th June 1780.

The Citizens of Philadelphia having determin’d to use their utmost endeavors to procure three Million of Rations and three hundred hogsheads of Rum for the use of the American Army, and having appointed us to forward them from hence to any place where your Excellency shall think proper, we take the liberty of requesting your Commands on this subject, assuring you of the pleasure we shall take in doing evry thing in our power on the occasion—At present all the waggons that were to be got have been impressd for the purpose of Conveying Provissions to the Army, and Consequently it will be some days before we Can enter on the material part of the business, About five hundred barrells of the flour is now here, and more is expected in a short time, we therefore flatter ourselves with the pleasure of your instructions and have the honor to be with the greatest respect and Esteem your Excellencies most obed. servants

Saml MeredithThos Barclay


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons, 24 June 1780
From: Parsons, Samuel Holden
To: Washington, George

Dear General,
Hartford June 24th 1780

I did not call at Westpoint on my Way to this place as I thought it of Importance to be with the assembly before the End of their Session; in which I was disappointed the Session being over. I immediately waited on the Governor and Council: and find the assembly have order’d One Thousand five Hundred Men for the Continental Army and apportion’d this Number to the Towns; Two Thousand five Hundred Militia for three months and the Two State Regiments, about one Thousand, to join the Army; and have voted the supplies requir’d: I urg’d the Necessity of Altering this system and filling the Continental Army and believe I have convinced the Council of the Propriety and necessity of it and

the Governor and members of Council, now present, are of opinion the propos’d alteration will be made at the meeting of a full Council, which will be next Thursday. from present appearances I am induc’d to believe most of the men now orderd will be procured in Season; I dont remember to have seen the Inhabitants of this State so much ala[r]med since the Loss of Ticonderoga as at present: I shall not indeavor to Calm their Fears: whilst they continue I beleive great Exertions To furnish Men and Provisions will Continue to be made. Some Difficulty will arise unless your Excellency can remove it: about Two Hundred of the Recruits for the Continental Army are orderd to be drafted from the Troops of Horse: it will be so exceedingly disgustful to these Men to serve in the Infantry that I fear they will not obey the order; if they can be orderd to join the Dragoons their objections are at an end; some of them are well equip’d with Arms: Horses and accoutrements, and may be as useful as our own Horse, and perhaps may occasionally serve as dismounted Dragoons. I wish to receive your Instructions on this Subject—The Committee of Congress not having sufficient Powers to order any part of the navy into the Sound could give me no Directions on that Subject; but assurd me they would immediately apply to Congress that such Powers may be lodged with you, if any thing can be effected by such movment in the present State of the Enemy: I shall hope for your Excellency’s order for the Purpose And Directions to General Howe to furnish Two or three Hundred Men, which I conceive will be sufficient with such aid as can be readily collected here.
I shall proceed to the eastern part of the State to Morrow and use every Exertion in my power to procure the necessary Number of men and supplies as speedily as possible; and shall be at Danbury in a Week. I am with the greatest Respect yr Excellencys Obedt Servt

Saml H. Parsons


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Henry Willis, 24 June 1780
From: Willis, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
Ki⟨n⟩gs Ferry [N.Y.] June 24th 1780 5 OClock Mor⟨ning⟩

I have receiv’d information of the enemies coming up the river. they were seen of[f] Closter this side of Fort Washington last evening about sun set, their numbers cannot be ascertain’d but in force you may depend on soon as ever they appear in sight I shall be able to write their size & strength. I have the honor to be &c.

Henry Willis


Title: General Orders, 25 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters [Whippany, N.J.,] Sunday June 25th 1780
Parole Leonidas  Countersigns Trim TroyWatchword Who’s here

The Troops to March and the Park to move tomorrow morning four o clock by the Left—Stark’s brigade to take Post on the left of Hand’s when it arrives.
Such of the Troops as may want Provisions are to draw and Cook this evening.
The Brigades to Post proper Picquets for their own security and to prevent their Soldiers straggling.

The General earnestly requests officers of all ranks to prevent as far as possible all unnecessary waste of meadows Pasturage or inclosures while on a March or in Camp—This is to be considered as a standing order.
A Sub. Serjeant Corporal and twenty one men from the 1st Pennsylvania brigade to mount at Head Quarters immediately.


Title: From George Washington to the Board of War, 25 June 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

Gentn
Whippeny [N.J.] June 25th 1780

I have been honoured with Your several Letters of the 17th—19th & 20, which the constant movements of the Army have prevented me from answering till this time. With respect to the subject of the first and of the Letter it inclosed for General Howe—I beg leave to inform the Board it had long since claimed my particular attention and every measure had been taken by me that appeared practicable to obtain and forward Supplies of provision for the post at West point. The route by which that must go, which comes from the Southward must be governed from time to time as it has been, by the movements & situation of the Enemy, on which head the Commissary and Quarter Master & other persons employed in the transportation will be regularly advised that it may be secure. There are no unnecessary Stores at West point that I know of; so far from it, those which are there are less than they ought to be, if our circumstances would admit of a better supply. The Stores which were at Fish Kill and which possibly might have been exposed—on a serious movement by the Enemy, have been brought down to the River & embarked in Vessels provided for the purpose. A particular account of the provisions forwarded by the Associators will be kept by the receiving Commissary who will be directed to give receipts for it also. This exertion will contribute greatly to our relief—and reflects the highest honor on the Gentlemen concerned in it.
The Board will be pleased to receive a confirmation of the sentences against Capn Coren & Lt Godfrey.
With respect to the application in favor of Lt Conolly’s Son I do not conceive myself authorised to grant it. I have never in a single instance undertaken to give permission to an Officer to go beyond Sea—and whenever requests for the purpose have been made immediately to me—they have been refered to Congress or the parties applying

informed that it was necessary. I return the Board Doctor Shield’s Letter on the subject—which they will if they think proper be pleased to lay before Congress. I should have been happy if it had been in my power to have obliged the Doctor, whose zeal & attachment to our cause seem to give him a claim to every consistent notice in his applications.
I am informed that Lt Colo. Ramsay is desirous that Lt Colo. Connolly should be permitted to go to New York to endeavour to effect their exchange or to return in a limited number of days. and by a Letter of the 16th from Colo. Magaw to Colo. Harrison received yesterday that it is also the Board’s wish. I should be very happy in the final exchange of Colo. Ramsay, and as the State of Maryland who claim Colo. Conolly as their prisoner, have expressed their wish to appropriate him particularly to it, there can be no objection to his going to New York to endeavour to effect it. Lt Colo. Conolly’s exchange under the circumstances of his case should be particularly restricted to that of Lt Colo. Ramsays, or the Enemy may undertake to place it in favor of some other Officer & probably One of the Violators of parole. When he goes to New York, he should proceed immediately to Elizabeth Town. I have the Honor to be with great respect & esteem Gent. Yr Most Obedt st

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Major General Nathanael Greene, 25 June 1780 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

  Letter not found: to Maj. Gen. Nathanael Greene, 25 June 1780. In his first letter to GW of that date, Greene wrote: “I have this moment receivd your Excellencys letter of this day.”


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 25 June 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Sir
Springfield June 25 1780

I have this moment receivd your Excellencys letter of this day. Maxwells brigade & Lees Light Horse will march early in the morning.
I have got no further intelligence but Col. Dayton expects some to Night.
I shall be under the necessity to go by the way of Morris, and will join the Army as soon as I have put things in a proper train in the Quarter Masters Department at that place.
Your Excellency will receive by this Express, the report of the Action of day before yesterday. I am with great respe[c]t Your Excellencys Most Obedt humble Ser.

Nath. Greene


Title: To George Washington from Major General Nathanael Greene, 25 June 1780
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

Sir
Springfield June 25th 1780 9 oClock P.M.

A man from New York brings the following intelligence.
Fryday last, went up the North River past New york one 44 Gun Ship three frigates and a bomb Ketch 30 top sail vessels and 15 smaller ones with the light Infantry and Grenadiers on board, estimated at about 3000.

Saturday at two oClock 32 Sail went up the River, with the second division of the Army. This day at nine oClock upwards of twenty sail went up the River with the last.
Sir Henry Clinton and Admiral Arburthnot are both gone up the River.
Ships of force still below, and in the Harbour are the Rusel—Romulus—& Pearle.
Major Lee marched this afternoon by the way of Paramus to Pompton. Maxwells brigade was to march at five in the morning but on hearing this intelligence I have given them orders to march at three, and to force their march as much as possible without injuring the Troops. I shall be obliged to go by the way of Morris but will be up with the Army as soon as possible.
The Enemy will undoubtedly endeavor to possess the high grounds round about the fortifications; in order to batter our works and oblige us to spend our Ammunition. If we can keep the Enemy from possessing those grounds, it will be a great point gained.
Sir Henry Clinton must be confident that the french fleet cannot enter the harbour, or that it is intercepted and cannot gain the American Coast.
I shall dispach this intelligence to the Committee this Evening and desire them to take the necessary steps to forward supplies, and stores of all kinds, which may be wanted in the operations. I am your Excellencys obed. humble Ser.

N. Greene


Title: To George Washington from William Greene, 25 June 1780
From: Greene, William
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Providence June 25th 1780.

I have the Honor to inclose you a Resolve of the Council of War of this Date in Consequence of a Letter from the Committee of Congress of the Twelfth instant inclosing yours of the Eleventh, wherein the Committee most earnestly conjure us to send forward the Troops of this State without delay, the Council being apprehensive that the Measure taken by the aforesaid Resolve might interfere with your Excellency’s Orders, and anxious to furnish you the most speedy reinforcement of this State’s Quota have requested me to write your Excellency on this Subject, that your Pleasure thereon might ⟨b⟩e known; The General Assembly have ordered Six Hundred and Ten Men to be rais’d to compleat this State’s Quota, and for that Purpose have proportion’d them to the several Towns to be rais’d and rendezvous at this Place by the first Day of July, some are already rais’d, and every Exertion of Government will be made to complete this number as well as to furnish the Supplies required by the Committee, your Excellency may be assured this State will make every Exertion in their Power to answer the Expectations of the Publick. I am with the utmost Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Humble Servt

W. Greene


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 25 June 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Providence June 25th 1780

The Council of war of this State met here on yesterday. Learning that they had Some new intentions with respect to Colo. Green’s Regt I omitted forwarding mine of the 23d which will be delivered with this. In the letter from Governor Greene your Excellency will find a resolve

of the Council of war of this date recommending that I should order Colo. Green’s regiment to march to the Grand Army with Such officers as may be necessary to conduct them. this recommendation lays me under some embarrassment; as Colo. Green’s regt is here by your Excellencys orders, and at this time employed on particular business by your express orders, I have doubts on my mind of the propriety of ordering them away without your knowlege [or] orders; for in Such a way your plans or designs may be counteracted. this was the opinion of part of the Council, as I am informed, but the Majority were for having the Regt Sent on.
The day before yesterday I gave orders for Colo. Green’s Regt to hold itself in readiness to march on the Shortest notice, and at the Same time to continue on their present duty, (making Facines), untill further orders.
The drafts are to rendezvous here on the first of July. I hope before that time to be honored with Some instructions from your Excellency. If I Should not, I beg to have them by the return of the Express.
The Council of War have this day granted the College in this place for a Hospital for the Sick of our Ally who may arrive in the expected Fleet. this, has given much pleasure to Monsr de Corny, who doubted the Safety of the Hospitals at Paupasquash. No News of the Fleet. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect Your Excellencys Most obedient Servant

W. Heath