Title: From George Washington to Seth Warner, 30 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Warner, Seth

                            Sir,
                            Head Qrs Augt 30 1780

                        I have received your letter of the 22d Instant. It is impossible for me to make a final or even a parole
                            exchange of the Officers you mention, because there are Others who have been much longer in captivity, and who, having a
                            superior claim from that circumstance to be first released on one of these modes, would complain & remonstrate against
                            the measure as being injurious to their rights. I have however represented the situation of the Officers, and the
                            hardships to which they have been subjected to General Haldimand--and hope that they will be permitted every indulgence
                            and liberty compatible with their situation and rank. And as it will be for the benefit of our Officers & Soldiers in
                            his hands to be at New York, where they will equally share in every public provision made for our Prisoners will have the
                            same chance of receiving supplies from their friends, and will be in the way of being released on a final or parole
                            exchange, whenever it comes to be their right, I have requested General Haldimand to send them there. You will forward the
                            letter addressed to him by a proper Flag, ’till it is met at some of the upper Posts.
                        From the difficult state of our finances at present and the embarrassments which attend the getting of money
                            for the most pressing occasions--it would be well always to transmit your letters and dispatches by post from Albany, or
                            some of the private Opportunities that are constantly offering, as it would save the public or Officers you employ to
                            bring them a considerable expence. I am Sir With esteem Yr most Obed. St

                            G.W.


Title: General Orders, 31 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Tean Neck Thursday August 31st 1780
                            Parole Mexico
                            Countersigns Menden: Moro.
                            Watchword Hampden
                            For the Day Tomorrow
                            Brigadier General Wayne
                            Colonel Nixon
                            Lieutenant Colonel Basset
                            Brigade Major Pettingal
                            For Guard
                            Major Winslow

                        A small number of Sabres and belts having arrived for the noncommissioned officers—Application is to be made
                            immediately for ten swords for each regiment vizt one for the Quarter Master serjeant and one for the first Serjeant of
                            each company. The Bayonet belts now in the hands of those Serjeants are to be turn’d in.
                        The Brigade Conductors are to attend tomorrow morning nine ô clock at the Park of Artillery for their
                            proportion of Drums and fifes—The drum and fife Majors are to attend at the same time with all their old fifes for the
                            purpose of having them properly sorted to the same Keys.
                        A return of Shoes wanting: to be made tomorrow morning at orderly time—the Light Infantry to be included by
                            the Clothiers of the Corps to which they belong: It is expected that the returns will include no more than are actually
                            wanting at this time as the stock will not admit of a general delivery. The Drafts are not to be included.
                        Till the Corps of rifle men are properly equip’d they are to take post on the right of the first line and
                            will practice firing at a Mark between the Hours of four and Six in the afternoon till their rifles are in order for real
                            service.
                        Lieutenant Joseph Miller of the 13th Massachusetts regiment is appointed Adjutant to the same from the first
                            of July last vice Adjutant Fowles promoted.


Title: To George Washington from Benedict Arnold, 31 August 1780
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Robinson’s House August 31st 1780.

                        Your Excellency’s Favor of the 26th was delivered me on the 28th by Mr Gamble, together with one from Colo.
                            Stewart C.G. of Issues of the same Date.
                        Agreeable to Your Excellency’s Directions and Colo. Stewarts request, I have ordered to Kings Ferry five
                            hundred & fifty Barrels of Flour, leaving about five Days Issues in the Magazine, for the Use of the Troops in
                            Garrison & the Posts in its Vicinity. With respect to the rum Colo. Stewart mentions not a syllable in his Letter,
                            I have therefore declined sending Any.
                        I have advised Colo. Stewart, That the Quantity in Store will not be sufficient for the Issues to the Troops
                            at this Post & its Vicinity; who are on constant Fatigue, for more than ten Days from this Date & that no
                            more is expected. That to some of the Troops employed as Wood Cutters for the Winters Supply of this Post, the publick is
                            already largely in Arrear in that Article, which will be issued from our small store this Week.
                        That as soon as the Issues of rum cease, It will be extremely difficult to have any more Fatigue done here,
                            by the Militia, Which will render the situation of the Troops who are to garrison this Post during
                            the approaching Winter, very uncomfortable; And that for these reasons, I could not by any Means order any Part of our
                            scanty Supply to be sent to him, Without a positive Order to that Purpose from Your Excellency.
                        I informed him, that Mr Stevens D.C.G. of Issues had advised me, that no rum was to be expected from the
                            Eastward, & requested to be advised by him whence we were to derive further Supplies for this Post.
                        The Assistant Commissary of Issues here is not furnished with Fresh Meat for more than this Days Issues; And
                            Mr Stevens informs me he expects no Supplies (a very trifling & uncertain one, from Colo. Hay Agent for this State
                            excepted) unless a Part of the Cattle intended for the main Army from the Eastward are ordered to be stopped for the Use
                            of the Troops here; And Colo. Stewart informs me that the Supplies for them are inadequate; I am therefore under the
                            unhappy Necessity of ordering a Part of the scanty Stock of Salt Provisions in the Magazine to be issued for the present
                            Subsistence of the Troops here & at the Posts near Us, This Measure is peculiarly distressing & very
                            impolitic in Case the Enemy should have it in their Power to make a vigorous Effort against us & be enabled to
                            invest these Posts—I hope that this Necessity will soon be superceded.
                        The Militia Officers are very clamorous & importunate to have rum issued to them, at all Times as
                            Part of their rations; I have assured them it is not the Practice in the Main Army & that our scanty Supplies
                            render it impossible at prest But that I would write Your Excellency requesting your Instruction in the Matter.
                        8 OClock A.M.
                        I am just this Moment honored with Your Excellency’s Favor of Yesterday’s Date covering the Proceedings of
                            the Genl Court Martial; I shall govern myself agreeable to your Directions. I am with every respectful Sentiment Your
                            Excellency’s Most Obedt & Very Hble Serv.

                            B. Arnold


Title: From George Washington to Board of War, 31 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

                            Gentn
                            Head Qrs in the vicinity of Fort Lee August 31st 1780.

                        I have had the honor of Your Letter of the 9th instant, inclosing one to the Board from Lt Colo. Forrest
                            of the Maryland line. I have written to him on the subject of his applicationand ordered a Court Martial to sit for
                            the trial of the Officer he has arrested and to transmit me the proceedings as soon as they are finished. The point
                            mentioned by the Board respecting the Arms & accoutrements delivered the Delaware Militia Regiment shall be attended to, and measures taken to secure them when their service expires. The matter too concerning the Artillery independent
                            Companies is under consideration, and the result will be reported.
                        I beg leave to transmit a Letter from Lt Colonols Peters & Hull of the Massachusetts line on the subject
                            of their Commissions, which I request the Board will make out & forward by the first Opportunity. The former is clearly
                            intitled to the vacancy in the 15th Regiment by the resignation of Lt Colo. Haskell which is found to have happened
                            by a Court of Inquiry appointed for the purpose on the 1st of July 1779 (a fact not known when the arrangement of the
                            line was made) The latter to the vacancy in the 3d by the cashierment of Lt Colo. Loring which took place the 12 of
                            August 1779. I have the Honor to be With great respect & esteem Gentn Yr Most Obt Servt


Title: From George Washington to Uriah Forrest, 31 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Forrest, Uriah

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Bergen County 31st Augt 1780

                        I have received your favr of the 17th instant—The Board of War have lately transmitted me a letter, from you
                            to them, of the 28th July; representing the case of an Officer arrested by you for discharging or exchanging men in an
                            illegal manner, and requesting to know whether you could with propriety appoint a general Court Martial for his trial—This
                            you cannot do, but that the matter may be brought to a speedy issue, and to prevent the uncertainty—trouble and expence of
                            Witnesses attending the Army to the southward, a General Court Martial, whereof Major John Steward or any senior Feild
                            Officer who may be in the state and convenient, yourself excepted, is to be president, is to sit at Baltimore for the
                            trial of the Gentleman above referred to—You will be pleased to signify this to the Officers who are to compose the
                            Court—The proceedings are to be transmitted to me for my approbation—I have excepted you from being president as having
                            made the arrest.
                        I am exceedingly sorry to hear that the prospects of procuring recruits to fill the Continental Battalions
                            are so unfavorable. I however have full confidence that every exertion will be made by the State and by the Officers
                            appointed to assist in the execution of the Case to obtain the Men. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 31 August 1780
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Newport Augt 31st 1780

                        By the master of a small Vessell who left Martha’s Vineyard yesterday morning I learn that Admiral Arbuthnot
                            is at that place with nine Sail of the line, eight other Ships of War of different rates and two tenders—that he has made
                            a demand of 11000 lb. of Beef and Mutton to be delivered every other day at 5d. Per lb. that the inhabitants had
                            represented to him that they could not comply with the requisition without being very soon involved in great Distress. On
                            which the Admiral assured the inhabitants that he would not insist on the full quantity demanded if they would deliver as
                            much as their ability would allow. that it was said Admiral Arbuthnot taking Station near the Vineyard was to prevent a
                            junction of the Second Division of the French Fleet which can be better effected from his present that his late station.
                            this probably is his object as the prevailing winds in the approaching Season will be in favor of it. Enclosed is the
                            report of two Deserters from long Island and the last intelligence I have received from that quarter. I have the honor to
                            be With the greatest respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedient servant

                            W. Heath

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                New London 29th Augt 1780

                            by two Deserters from the British at the East end of Long Island which arrivd here lately am informed
                                that the British Troops began their march last Thursday for the West end of the Island, am also informed by a Credible
                                person that Just before the British Marchd for the West end of the Island General Clinton receivd an Express from New
                                York upon Receipt of which he walked the Room about an hour then gave Orders for both his horse & other Troops
                                to march imeadietly, it appears they went of very precipitate.
                            Two small British Ships past this Harbour Yesterday Standing to the Eastwd will be very much Obligd for a
                                Line if any thing worthy of Notice. am with every Sentiment of Respect Your Honors Most Obt Servant

                                Wm Ledyard


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, 31 August 1780
From: Lee, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir:
                            August 31st 1780

                        It is with very great regret I enclose your Excellency Cap. McLanes letr to me soliciting leave to retire
                            from the service. The public looses a valuable servant, & I part with a gentleman of the first  to my corps. I have the honor to be sir, with the most perfect respect your Excelys obt servt

                            Henry Lee Junr

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Hackensack Augst 27. 1780.

                            When I left my private concerns, and accepted of a Commission in the Army then collecting for the defence
                                of America I had not the least doubt but equal attention would be paid to my Rank by the Gentlemen appointed to govern
                                our affairs, and that I should be equally rewarded for my services, with the Gentlemen holding Commissions under the
                                same Authority My Attachment to the cause, in which my country is engaged, makes me lament, that in the course of
                                almost five-years Service, I have experienced repeated instances of neglect towards me, when others having no just
                                claim, have been promoted—In Jany 77 being appointed to a Captaincy I was promised, that if I was successfull in
                                raising my quota—I should be rewarded for such Service. In a few months, I Joined the Regt with Ninety men, raised at
                                my own private expence, which money was not repaid, ’till it had depreciated twenty for one; when to my great suprize,
                                I found myself among the junior Captains, although I had the largest Company. I thought this a grievance, and
                                Complained, but without redress. Being determined to sacrafise my feelings in this one instance, rather than withdraw
                                myself from the service I was so greatly attached to, I determined to submit to this injury, in hopes, that by a
                                steady attention to my duty I should merit the Attention of our Rulers and be rewarded for my
                                services. After two years, it pleased the Congress to derange the Regt I was joined to and annex me to another Regt,
                                which was disagreable to the Officers. I was then provided for, by being annexed to your Corps. After serving till
                                February last, I thought myself intitled to preferment, applied to Congress, for my command’s being augmented, which
                                they were pleased to honour by adding two Companys more. I then, as I thought, with great propriety, expected a
                                Majority which the board of War thought altogether reasonable, But at the same time refered me to his Excellency
                                General Washington, who when Applied to, refused my request. Whereupon I made myself easy, reflecting that his reason
                                must be just, and at that time was not consistent with the cause I was engaged in. On my joining you the other day, I
                                found to my great surprize, that two Gent. were appointed to the most respectable commands, with the rank of Majors,
                                and that I was still continued with three Company’s as Captain, when neither of those Gentlemen can have equal
                                pretensions, neither for their Services nor sacrafices in the cause; from which circumstances &  above expressed, I think myself not only neglected, but greatly injured. Therefore, having no
                                hope of redress, beg leave to quit a Service, to which, by a natural love for my Country, & five years service
                                & experience, I was greatly Attached. Now Sir, I have to request, you’ll permit me to
                                attend to the settlement of my Publick Accounts and then retire from Service. I am with respect Yr Hbe Sert

                                A. McLane


Title: To George Washington from Francis Lewis, 31 August 1780
From: Lewis, Francis
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Admiralty Office 31st August 1780

                        The Board have been honoured with your favor of the 15th Instant, in answer thereto, we beg leave to inform
                            your Excellency that Congress have ordered the Seratoga with dispatches, under the direction of a Secret Committee of
                            conferrence with the Minister of France.
                        The Frigates Trumbull and Dean are ordered out upon a Cruize, with directions to keep a good look out for the
                            second division of the French fleet, and to give the commanding Officer thereof every information—respecting the number
                            and situation of the British fleet off Rhode Island.
                        The Confederacy is the only Continental Frigate now in this harbour, but neither manned nor Victualed for the
                            Sea.
                        Thus Sir we have given you a State of the Continental Navy in this department—and are with great respect Your
                            Excellency’s Obedient Hume Servts

                            Fra: Lewis


Title: To George Washington from Joshua Nason, 31 August 1780
From: Nason, Joshua
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Camp Tenick Augt 31st 1780

                        It is with sincere Regret that I trouble Your Excellency at this time; but in a Military Character, where
                            Honor Ought to be held sacred, my feelings have been greatly Wounded on Account of my Rank—and I see no way to have it
                            Redres’d, I therefore beg of Your Excellency to grant me a discharge from the Army—and with Submission wait your
                            Excellency’s Answer, And am with the highest Respect Your Excellency’s Obedt and Very humble Servt

                            Joshua Nason
                            Ensn 12th Massachusetts Regiment


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 31 August 1780
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Lebanon 31st August 1780

                        I have the honor to receive inclosed in a circular Letter from the Honble Committee of Cooperation, a Copy of
                            your letter to them dated 17th instant. I am sorry to find the large deficiences from the respective States as expressed
                            in that letter.
                        I think it my duty to inform your Excellency that measures have been, & still are taking to furnish
                            the men requested from their State, with the other requisites of provisions, teams, horses &c. that I belive the
                            men will be soon collected to the army, not without some unavoidable, tho’ I hope no great failures. The men to serve in
                            the Continental Army ’till the first of January, are daily going forward—the three months men are also Collecting. Of
                            these latter Hez. Wyllys Esqe Lt Colo. Commandant hath with him at New London, and on Norwich River cutting and preparing
                            fascines, gabions &c. about 800—he is with me this day—informs that work is now going
                            on well, and will not be long in accomplishing, and his corps ready to join the army. The rest were order’d to Danbury—Lt
                            Colonels Welles and Beebe with their Regiments are at Horseneck, ready for your call—Hope when they are marched off, that
                            place may be in greater safety than they have been for some time past. The appearance of any thing decisive being
                            undertaken, this State, I think will supply men sufficient to fill all it’s deficiences in that regard, by sending
                            volunteers and independent Companies to enter the service, agreeable to a proposition sent me by B. Genl Parsons.
                        On the score of provisions, Good Providence hath afforded ample supplies. The regulations of Congress have
                            put us into a condition, whereby they, especially the fresh Beef, I fear will come on to the Army very irregularly. We have
                            been endeavouring a Correspondence of the Superintending Commissaries of the New England States, that they may know and
                            keep up a regular course of droves of cattle. This State, if I am not misinform’d is in advance beyond the rest and the
                            requisition made from it—I have heard there hath been a time lately when the army were destitute of cattle on hand—and at
                            other times there may be more than is convenient—The droves ought to be under a direction which will bring them on
                            regularly—This State have at New London four or five hundred barrels of best Irish Mess Beef, which, if requested, may be
                            sent—It will be but to take an opportunity to send it into Connecticut River to Middletown or Hartford, which will be a
                            great saving in expence of carriage—which brings me to the Quarter Master’s Department—the new regulations of which I
                            fear, will bring on us fresh embarassments—I should have thought former experience would have taught a useful lesson, on
                            the expediency of making such refin’d rules, and changes in the season for an Action campaign however, this State will
                            make the best of it—though my fears are many.
                        The great difficulties and perplexities you are laid under, when duly notified to the concerned, and not
                            remov’d, must forever exculpate Your Excellency from imputations of blame—it is my wish also to exculpate this State.
                        The affairs of our Currency is in a delicate situation—I see nothing to relieve but taxation & loans.
                        The enemy are endeavouring to sap the foundation of our credit, by draining us of our specie by clandestine
                            trade—by sending out their emissaries with Goods to sell for hard money only, and by the nefarious practice of sending
                            counterfeit Bills amongst us. The Lord reigns is just matter for our rejoicing with thankfulness for mercies receiv’d and
                            in hope of those we still stand in need of; and a real belief thereof a solid foundation for our humble trust in him—for
                            he is Good a strong hold in the day of trouble, he knoweth them that trust in him. I am with every sentiment of Esteem
                            & Consideration Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Hble Servant

                            Jonth; Trumbull

                     Enclosure

                                Gentn
                                Committee of Cooperation Lebanon 29th Augt 1780

                            Yours of the 19th instant have duly recd... The Force and Justice of your ingenuous Observations on American
                                Affairs most sensibly affects my Mind... Yet can by no means believe the Spirit of Liberty is so farr lost. But that
                                America may yet be roused and by her Exertions rise superiour to the Power and Policy of her relentless Enemies... Her
                                Resourses are by the Blessing of Heaven adequate to her Necessities and doubt not they may be drawn forth... This State
                                ever anxious to support the American Cause have made Provision for complying with the Requisitions in Men Provisions
                                Forage & Teams and no Exertions will be wanting to carry the Same into Execution... The Men are daily going on
                                and Measures using to hasten the Remainder should they prove unsuccesfull and an Attack be made on New York the
                                Difficiencies will be made up in a short Time as such an Event would rouse the People to Arms... proper Persons are
                                employed in purchasing Provisions & Forage and the advanced Season will I hope render the procuring the Same
                                less difficult... The Ox Teams are procured & sent on and the greatest Part of the Horses the Residue will I
                                doubt not be soon had... Hope no Relaxation in the necessary Preparations for a vigourous offensive Campaign will take
                                Place on the Idea that every Requisition on this State for Men & Supplies will not be compleated. I am, with
                                Esteem & Consideration Gentln Your Obedient hble Servant

                                 Jonth; Trumbull


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Washington, 31 August 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Samuel

                            Dear Brother,
                            Camp near Fort Lee Augt 31st 1780.

                        Your letter of the 31st Ulto came to my hands by the last Post, from Philadelphia—It gave me much concern to
                            find by it, that you were in such bad health—I hope this, if it should arrive safe, will find you much amended.
                        It is a considerable time since I wrote to you—in truth it is rare for me to put pen to paper for private
                            corrispondencies, so much is my time and attention engrossed by public business—I wish I could add, as profitably as it
                            might be, but the fatal system of policy whh we have adopted, & for ought I see to the contrary, are determined to
                            persist in, prevents this.
                        We are always without an Army—or have a raw and undisciplined one, engaged for so short a time that we are
                            not fit either for the purposes of offence or defence, much less is it in our power to project schemes & execute
                            plans which depend upon well disciplined and permanent Troops—One half the year is spent in getting Troops into the
                            Field—the other half is lost in discharging them, from their limited Service, & the manner & time in which
                            they come and go—the public in the meanwhile incurring an immense expence in paying two setts—that is, the comers
                            & goers—at the same instant—In a waste of Provisions, Stores, Arms, and a thousand things which can scarce be
                            enumerated—In a word short enlistments has been the primary cause of the continuance of the War, & every evil
                            which has been experienced in the course of it—It has been the source from whence the depreciation of our Money has
                            flowed, and though it is the cause of our present embarrassments, I much question whether our eyes are yet opened;
                            & whether the fatal policy which heretofore has governed all our measures will not direct Us to another short
                            enlistment when the present force leaves us—It is impossible for any person at a distance to have an idea of my
                            embarrassments, or to conceive how an Army can be kept together under such circumstances as ours is—half its time without
                            Provision, Cloathing or pay.
                        The flattering prospect which seemed to be opening to our view in the Month of May is vanishing like the
                            Morning Dew—The States, instead of sending the full Number of Men required of them by the first of July, the consequent
                            supplies, have not furnished one half of them yet—& the second division of French Troops & Ships not
                            being arrived, nor any certainty when they will, I despair of doing anything in this quarter this Campaign—& what
                            may be the consequence, if the combined Arms of France & Spain are not more prosperous in Europe or the West
                            Indies, I shall leave to others to predict—At best, the Troops we have, are only fed from hand to Mouth—& for
                            the last four or five days have been without Meat—In short the limits of a letter would convey very inadequate ideas of
                            our disagreeable situation; & the wretched Manner in which our business is conducted—I shall not attempt it
                            therefore, but leave it to some future Pen, and a more favourable period for truths to shine.
                        The first division of French Troops (as no doubt you have heard) are at Rhode Island—where their Squadron is
                            blocked up by the British fleet under Arbuthnot of superior force—The Army under my Command is encamped on the west bank
                            of the North or Hudsons River, about fifteen Miles from the City of New York & within full view of the Enemy—the
                            River only between us—We lately made a Forage opposite to the City & expected to be opposed in it but were not.
                        I sincerely wish you a perfect Restoration of health, and the enjoyment of every blessing of life—My best
                            Regards attend my Sister (with whom I should be happy in a better acquaintance) & all your family—& with
                            the greatest truth, I remain Yr Affecte Br.

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. Have you ever take the necessary steps to save my Lotts at the Warm Springs?


Title: To George Washington from Bezaliel Woodward, 31 August 1780
From: Woodward, Bezaliel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir:

                            May it please your Excellency.
                            Dresden on the New Hampshire Grants August 31st A.D. 1780

                        The vast importance to the united States in general and to this new country in particular that Canada be
                            annexed to the States which can be only by an army’s going into that country is the occasion of our troubling your
                            Excellency with the enclosed address, which we send by Colo. Olcott who is appointed  agent for that purpose by a convention of members from the towns on both sides of
                            Connecticut river and northward of Charleston.
                        He will be able more fully to represent the importance of the expedition than we have done on paper
                                no more need be said on the subject. I write this by order and in behalf of the convention above
                            mentioned, and have the honor to be, Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble Servant

                            Beza. Woodward Clerk

                     Enclosure

                            To his Excellency George Washington Esquire commander in chief of the fources of the united States in North
                                    America—

                                    30 August 1780

                            Humbly sheweth.
                            The petition of the principal inhabitants on Connecticut river on both sides and northward of Charleston,
                                met in convention at Dresden on the New Hampshire Grants August 30th A.D. 1780.
                            That the union of Canada with the united States is in our opinion of the greatest importance to them, for
                                the following reasons viz. There is but one seaport in that country which we shall ever have need to defend, yet good
                                water carriage for near two thousand miles, streching itself in a circular manner round the thirteen united States,
                                through an excellent country of land, great part of which is inhabited by savages, whose fur & skin trade
                                produces to our enemies an annual profit which is immense—The annual produce of wheat in that country for exportation
                                is very great, by which the British armies in America receive essential advantage—The capture of that country will be
                                a leading step towards securing to the united States the profits of the fish oil &ca procured at and near the
                                gulph of St Laurence, which would be a greatly beneficial acquisition—While they hold possession of Canada our
                                frontiers must be very extensive and the savages at their command, and we had almost said the enemy destroy &
                                take yearly from the frontiers bordering on Canada as much in value as the cost of reducing & holding that
                                country—we are sure the defence of our frontiers costs more—The securing that country in our interest will be the only
                                effectual means to enable us to secure those of Ohio and Missisipi both on account of obtaining in that way the
                                interest of the savages in our favor and as the conveyance for the enemy—(while they hold possession of Canada) of men
                                ammunition and provisions to those parts is not only as easy but more expeditious and safe by the waters of St
                                Laurence than by the gulph of Mexico—and in our opinion those countries cannot otherwise be effectually secured.
                            By obtaining Canada we add to our fource thirty thousand fighting men, and destroy the efficacy of the
                                bill passed in the British parliament in the year 1774 for extending the province of Quebec which includes the
                                province of Main and great part of New Hampshire; these Grants &c., the establishment of which is without
                                doubt the main object of the enemy in taking and holding possession at Penobscot; and within the extent of which the
                                united States have not a single fortress to cover their claim in opposition to that of the British—in short, that bill
                                is so extensive that should it be established the united States would have little or nothing left worth contending
                                for, and we see not how it can be effectually destroyed but by an union of Canada with them. The body of inhabitants
                                in that country are desirous of such union and unless it can be brought about speedily by sending a fource into
                                Canada, they will be under necessity to take an active part against us, which they have hitherto avoided.
                            The whole fource of Britain now in arms in Canada at all their posts, from Quebec to Detroit including
                                one thousand five hundred tories and indians (who are continually roving and destroying our frontiers) does not exceed
                                five thousand men—one thousand are stationed in the destrict of Montreal and six hundred of the rovers have that
                                destrict for their head quarters.
                            The communication from the settlements on this river to St Charles on Chamblee river is easy—the road
                                already opened more than half the way, the rest may be opened at very little expence, and the whole will be very
                                good—the distance about one hundred miles.
                            A good commander with few continental troops in addition to such volunteers as may be raised for that
                                purpose on these Grants and in the N. England States, with a suitable quantity of arms and ammunition to furnish those
                                Canadians who are now eagar for such an expedition and will at one join us on the arrival of an army there, will
                                easily take possession of and keep the destrict of Montreal, and that being secured, the country above even to and
                                beyond the western lakes must soon submit to the united states.
                            Your petitioners are confident that fifteen hundred Men from these Grants will turn out (if called upon)
                                to assist in taking possession of that country—They can and will chearfully furnish five hundred horses, one hundred
                                teams, and ten thousand bushels of wheat and more if necessary, also such other grain as may be wanted on the credit
                                of the continent; from the destrict of country betwixt the heights on the two sides of Connecticut river and north of
                                the Massachusetts Bay, the inhabitants of which (more than five thousand families) are now chiefly obliged to hold the
                                sword in one hand and tools for husbandry in the other, and probably must continue so to do till that country is
                                reduced, unless we have a large continental fource continually supported here to defend us from their ravages, as our
                                frontier is very extensive.
                            We therefore humbly pray that your Excellency will be pleased to recommend to Congress that by the middle
                                of september next or as soon as possible a party under a suitable commander be sent on the said enterprize, and a
                                recommendation to the people in this country and the New England States for voluntiers to join their fource in the
                                expedition, and that we make ready necessary provisions, which we shall chearfully comply with to the utmost of our
                                power.
                            And as in duty bound shall ever pray. ⅌ order of the convention

                                Beza: Woodward Clerk


Title: Notes on a Proposed Conference at Hartford, Conn., July 1780
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

                                August 1780

                        The Marquis De la Fayette by your order proposed New York as the object of the intended cooperation and
                            assured the Count DeRochambeau that by a certain period we should have fourteen thousand Continental troops and six
                            thousand militia, and shortly after four or six thousand more.
                        It is of great importance to us that it should appear we are ready and in condition to act; our allies not—It will therefore be good policy to keep out of sight the disappointments we met with in the number of men &c. and
                            to hold up the idea that we should have been prepared to cooperate—The contrary will have several ill effects—it will
                            discredit us with the Court of France, it will argue either that we wished to deceive, or that we did not understand our
                            true resources, the former would be a reflection upon our honesty the latter upon
                            our judgment, and either would produce an injurious distrust of our future
                            engagements. —if we are pushed about our present force we may say that we have exclusive of
                                militia between twelve and thirteen thousand men, the deficiency arises from our having ordered
                            back the Maryland troops to reinforce the Southern army, despairing of an operation there—it may be
                            added by the way without laying much stress upon it, that the States relaxed their exertions to complete their batalions
                            on finding the probability of an expedition against New York decrease.
                        Including the infantry of Sheldon and Lee Major Gibbes corps and Livingstons regiment Our Continental force
                            in this quarter may well be estimated at 10800

                                The Regiment at Rhode Island is

                                500

                                The two Connecticut state Regts

                                800

                                The Jersey state Regts that may

                                 be had for the occasion

                                     400

                                12.500

                        Besides the 12500—Van Schaicks Regiment and the German batalion may be counted upon which will make our
                            Continental and state troops near thirteen thousand; so that saying we are between twelve and
                            thirteen thousand exclusive of Militia is far near the truth as the most rigid good faith requires.
                        It will be necessary however that we should confess our wants and weaknesses very fuly—we must paint the
                            distresses of our finances of the army—the impossibility of bringing out the resources of the Country much longer, unless
                            by the help of a foreign loan—the necessity of activity if practicable on any reasonable ground; but we must carefully
                            inculcate this distinction that though we cannot count upon continued exertions for future and remote operations—yet the
                            states from a desire of getting rid of the present embarrassments by one decisive stroke, there is every reason to believe
                            would have given us effectual aid in the expedition which was in contemplation——In painting the distresses of the army we
                            must be silent on the want of the provisions at this time, because the Count will infer too much from it.
                        As to operations in my opinion we should propose three plans.
                        If a decided superiority is acquired before the end of this Month and the Admiral will engage immediately to
                            take possession of the harbour of New York and cooperate to the end of the expedition, till the siege is carried or is
                            raised—New York should still be attempted—While He goes round to the Hook the army should proceed down the Sound under a
                            proper convoy either to join us or to throw itself upon Long Island to act against Brookline as circumstances may point
                            out—If the operations of the fleet and the dispositions of the enemy put it in our power to throw the army upon York
                            Island in the first instance it ought to be done—a part intrenched before the enemy’s lines and the rest thrown upon Long
                            Island to establish itself before Brookline—I would content myself to leave in the intrenchments 6000 Continental troops
                            and 6000 Militia; the remainder of the army if thought necessary for security might cross to Long Island—there take a
                            camp as near Brooklin as might be thought expedient and intrench ten thousand men; of which eight to be regular troops two
                            militia; the remainder to recross to York Island. By this plan the operations against York Island and Long Island may go
                            on at the same time—The french troops must join us to make good our ground upon York Island; otherwise the operation
                            might be critical.
                        If the fleet should be retarded in gaining full possession of the harbour and the enemy’s dispositions should
                            make it dangerous to force our way in the first instance upon the Island—then we may intrench a corps of ten thousand men
                            (of which four or five thousand to be Continental troops) at Frogs neck or some other advantageous spot in West Chester
                            and proceed with the main body of the army to Brooklyne to reduce that post—This movement and the operations of the fleet
                            will oblige the enemy to collect their force at their works near the city; by the time Brookline was carried, the fleet in
                            all probability will have gained the harbour, and in either case the enemy cannot remain at their advanced posts, for we
                            might then throw ourselves into their rear and cut them off from their supplies—We shall by this time find no difficulty
                            in establishing ourselves on the Island in front of the enemys lines and beginning our approaches. Brookline being carried
                            some momentary repairs must be given to it, and a garrison sufficient to be secure against a coup de main left to defend
                            it and the posts near it and to bombard the city—while the rest of the army with the part intrenched at West Chester
                            unite on York Island—the precise mode of effecting this will be determined by the circumstance of the moment.
                        In the first plan after Brookline is carried it must be garrisoned in like manner, and the remaining troops
                            must rejoin those on York Island to push the approaches with the greater vigor and efficacy.
                        The fleet so soon as it gets possession of the harbour must clear the North River by such methods as the
                            Admiral thinks best. To force the passage on York Island on the first plan—the army will extend from the North River to
                            the Sound, with all the boats of the fleet and all that can be collected in the North River and in the Sound on each
                            flank; the position of the enemy will decide the rest.
                        Should not the fleet arrive in time for New York and should a decided naval superiority be afterwards
                            required, we must attempt the relief of the Southern states. The french troops will embark where they are. A corps of four
                            thousand American troops will embark in the Delaware. The french fleet will be convoyed to the mouth of the Delaware and
                            there form a junction with the American corps—and proceed to Charles Town. The troops will move by water as Sir Henry
                            Clinton did by way of Wappoo Cut &c. till it can arrive before Charles Town.
                        A landing in South Carolina will make the enemy draw in all their out posts and General Gates may approach
                            Charles Town in proportion to form a junction there with the army under your command—Perhaps it may be found expedient to
                            detach immediately into Georgia to regain possession of the state; but the circumstances on the spot will best decide
                            this.
                        The fleet after protecting the landing may return to cruise off New York and protect the successive supplies
                            going to the allied army—Its station when it finds it necessary to go into port should be  road Chesapaek bay—Most of the transports may be sent away with it. Some frigates must
                            be left—superior to the enemys naval force. It would be useful to gain possession of Charles Town harbour if it can be
                            effected—to exclude the enemy from supplies.
                        Any vessels which may be laden in the Eastern ports with provisions &c. for us must be convoyed to
                            the Delaware.
                        We should have a train of seige artillery of 60 pieces of ordnance with a proportion of stores for both
                            armies. It should if possible set out with three months supplies. If we embark as to
                            arrive sometime in November, it would be the most convenient season.
                        After reducing Charles Town a sufficient force must be sent to
                            Savannah, St Augustine &c.
                        If for want of a naval superiority we can attempt neither New York nor Charles Town we should endeavour to
                            make a Winter expedition into Canada. The force I would propose for this would be five thousand men, half French troops
                            half American. The Count De Rochambeau to engage him in the enterprise should be chief in the expedition; Major General
                            Greene should command the American corps. The Marquis should go under him; it would be well to let the latter have the
                            chief command, but the people might not be satisfied with it. There are political reasons which would induce me to prefer
                            Greene. I do not think, The Commander in Chief should go; for two reasons—the one already mentioned respecting Rochambeau
                            and the general situation of the Country, which requires his presence and influence within the states; for in the present
                            crisis there is no saying what may happen and Congress stand in need of support.
                        In order to this, I would endeavour to have Magazines of bread & forage at Coos and at Albany—snow
                            shoes &c. provided. I would encourage the late offer from the grants concerning one, and write to the state of New
                            York concerning the other—These Magazines will be useful on any supposition.
                        I prefer the route by Coos for the expedition.
                        The army should go light in the first instance; but after having established
                            itself at Montreal, a train of siege Artillery should follow and every preparation
                            should be made to break ground before Quebec as early as the season will permit
                            & too soon for succours to come up the River St Laurance; for till the capital is carried, I think nothing done.
                            Perhaps we may be able to carry it by assault.
                        As we may not have specie to maintain our part of the expedition we must endeavour to make this
                            arrangement—The Count De Rochambeau to advance the money to procure such additional supplies as we cannot send— we to
                            deliver flour &c. here for that part of the French troops which remains and the account to be afterwards
                            liquidated. The difficulty of supplying our troops may not be so great as may at first sight seem; for when the St
                            Laurance is once open we may have a water transportation for such flour &c. as we think proper to send. The giving
                            Count De Rochambeau the chief direction of the expedition will be a strong motive to engage him in this
                            agreement.
                        We should endeavour at all events to get the Count to send the fleet to Boston and come with the army this
                            way; at least this should be done as the Winter approaches. It will have many advantages; it will prevent the enemy
                            detaching from New York to push their advantages in the Southern states; it will enable us to take advantage of their
                            faults—it will prevent the evils we have to apprehend from the diminution of our army in the Winter—It will enable us to
                            detach to the Southward if we should find it necessary.
                        Should the Canadian expedition take place, the remainder of the troops should by all means join us.


Title: To George Washington from John Nixon, August 1780
From: Nixon, John,Clymer, George
To: Washington, George

                            Sir

                                August 1780

                        A letter from your Excellency to Messrs Meredith and Barclay at Trenton has been by those gentlemen handed to
                            us, as best able to give the necessary information respecting some of those subjects of enquiry on which it turns—We
                            perceive from it that considerable dependance is placed upon the Pennsylvania bank for keeping the army supplied with
                            provisions; but how far this dependance should justly go, your Excellency will be best able to judge when we shall have
                            laid before you a state of its affairs—The ground work was a deposit of money arising from subscription—this subscription
                            is about eleven hundred thousand pounds continental currency of which we are now in the receipt of two payments of ten
                            ⅌ Cent each—but on what we principally rested was that convenience, the trading people would find in lodging their money
                            in the bank, taking our notes payable on demand, by which, as the notes might be expected to have a free and continued
                            circulation, we should have the command of a vast fund for our purchases. From these two sources of supply we have as yet
                            drawn but about four hundred thousand pounds with a well grounded confidence however, that the production of the latter
                            will be proportionately greater, the longer it remains open—part of this amount, agreeable to the prudential rules of
                            similar institutions; it was necessary to receive in our hands: with the remainder we should have proceeded in the
                            purchases of flour, had any been at market, which, since the harvest, has not been the case, but for the attention we
                            thought ourselves obliged to shew to the requisition of tents from the Committee of Congress with the army, who informed
                            us they were of still more indespensible necessity than flour—Of these Mr Francis the factor of the bank has purchased
                            materials for five or six hundred which he has directed to be made up and will forward to the army—We shall however in
                            consequence of your Excellency’s letter desist from further purchases in this article and resume our original design, as
                            flour can be obtained—but as to the daily or weekly quantities we shall be able to supply we can have no certain
                            assurance. On the whole our sentiments are, that it will be proper to consider the bank rather as coming in aid of the
                            ordinary means of supply, than as being in itself equal to any great effect without them, and that it will not by any
                            means supersede the necessity of any one of them, but ’tho we cannot venture to say what degree of support this
                            establishment may receive from the publick, we can assure your Excellency that there is the best disposition in all those
                            who have the conduct of it, to extend its means and make it as extensively useful as possible. We are your Excellency’s
                            most obedt hum. Servants

                            John Nixon
                            Geo. Clymer


Title: To George Washington from Anonymous, August 1780
From: Anonymous
To: Washington, George

                                August 1780

                        As to the Navil Strengtht within the hook thare is the gard Ship within the one Sixty fore it is Reported
                            that the renown is Sumware A Bout hel gate the Bland frigate Lyes in the  as to the fort at Brooklin I am told it is Near finnisht that it Is Mounted with havy Cannon and a larg Bumproof Making in it arrivals thare has
                            Bin None lately they lay thare has Bin two fals imBarcations or motion to imBark which is not dun the army is Stil on long
                            Island and have all the flat Bots With them.


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

                        Intelligences du Gnl Washington.

                        Un Vaisseau qui vient d’arriver á philadelphie, est parti du Port–au–Prince, et a apporté des lettres à plusieurs particuliers de cette Ville, que le Cte de Guichon avec 23. Vaisseaux de ligne, et 10. fregates, étoit parti du Cap français, ayant Sous Son escorte 148. Vaisseaux marchands allant en Europe, il devoit les envoyer jusqu’à une certaine latitude et envoyer M. de La Motte Piquet avec 10. Vaisseaux de ligne et 4. fregates pour les  envoyer jusques en france.Le Cte de Guichon devoit aller, avec le reste de la flotte, tout droit à Rhode island, degager la flotte française aux ordres du chr de Ternay, ayant eu avis qu’elle y étoit bloquée. Ce même Vaisseau dans La traversée a rencontré la flotte dans la latitude 26d Nord, et longitude W. 67. ou 69d un Schooner qui vient d’arriver à Christiana, dans la Delaware, des Indes occidentales, étoit parti avec la flotte française du Cte de Guichon, et avoit quitté l’Escadre cinq jours avant de doubler les Caps de la Delaware, le Cte allant plus vers le Nord, on supposoit qu’il alloit directement à New–port.Un Vaisseau arrivé à Baltimore, confirme les intelligences dessus et qu’une partie de la flotte française, etoit certainement destinée pour ce continent.Une maladie qui S’est mise, dans les troupes Espagnoles, a empêché l’attaque qu’on s’étoit proposé Sur l’Est de la Jamaique.


Title: General Orders, 1 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Tean Neck Friday September 1st 1780

                            Parole Hackinsack
                            Countersigns J. B.

                        Watchword Near By.
                        For the Day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Huntington
                        Colonel Johnston
                        Lieutenant Colonel Olney
                        Brigade Major Rice
                        For Guard
                        Major Throop.
                        Twenty men to be paraded tomorrow at Guard mounting from the Line as Waggoners to drive off the spare
                            Ammunition.


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 1 September 1780
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir.
                            Pokeepsie Sepr 1st 1780

                        I am favored with your Excellency’s Letter of the 27th Ulto and am much obliged by your Attention to my
                            Application, thro’ Genl Schuyler, in ordering Coll Malcom’s Corps to the Defence of the frontiers—every Measure in my
                            Power will be taken to expedite his march and he has my orders to relieve the Garrison of Fort Schuyler, without the
                            least delay, by the Levies raised last Spring for the Defence of the Frontiers whose Times of Service will not expire
                            before the first Decr next—It will take some considerable Time however to collect them as they are posted at different
                            & remote Parts of the frontiers: but I would fain hope that the Discontents of the present Garrison will subside
                            when they are informed that Measures are taken to relieve them. I have directed Coll Malcom to proceed immediately to
                            Albany and take the necessary Measures for collectg as large a Supply of Provision for Fort Schuyler as can be spared (and
                            for which Purpose he has Warrants of Impress) that he may avail himself of an escort by the Troops, intended to Garrison
                            that Post.
                        I shall take the earliest Opportunity of communicating to the Legislature (who are required to meet at this
                            Place the 4th Inst.) your Excellency’s Letter of the 27th Ulto together with the several Letters from the Committee of
                            Congress on the Subject of Supplies for the Army—the State Agent will in the mean time have my Directions to make every
                            exertion in his Power for affording them immediate Relief.
                        I take the liberty of enclosing (confidentially) for your Excellency’s perusal a Copy of the Proceedings of
                            the Convention of Committees from the States of Massachusetts Bay Connecticut & New Hampshire; in which I am happy
                            to find, even at this late hour, Sentiments, which if generally adopted cannot fail of doing much good and I believe I may
                            venture to assure you, Sir, that (as the most sensible among us have from the beginning of the Contest foreseen the
                            consequences of temporary Expedients) they will meet the chearful approbation of this State. I have the Honor to be with
                            perfect Respect & Esteem, Dear Sir Your Excellency’s most obedt Servt

                            Geo: Clinton

                     Enclosure

                                 3 August 1780

                            At a Meeting of the Committees appointed by the States of Massachusetts Bay, Connecticut New Hampshire
                                convened at Boston on Thursday the Third Day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty.

                                    Present

                                    The honble Thomas Cushing Esqr.

                                    from the State of

                                    Nathaniel Gorham Esqr.

                                    Massachusetts Bay

                                    John Lowell Esqr.

                            The honble Jesse Root Esqr. from the State of Connecticut.
                            The honble John Langdon Esqr. from the State of New Hampshire.
                            The State of Rhode Island were notified of the Convention, approved the Measure and appointed a
                                Commissioner: but by some Means he was prevented from attending.
                            The Commissioners, present, pruduced their several Appointments which are as follows. (present).
                            After communication of the Powers as above the Convention made Choice of the honble Thomas Cushing Esqr.
                                for their President and Henry Alline as Clerk; and then proceeded to consult and advise upon the Means necessary to be
                                imployed by the States they represent, to comply with the Requisitions of Congress and of their Committee of
                                cooperation at Headquarters, and to carry on and render effectual the Operations of the present Campaign; and having
                                adjourned from Day to Day until the ninth Day of August instant, agreed & resolved to recommend to their
                                respective States the following Measures.
                            1st That notwithstanding these States have ordered the number of Men required of them and made great
                                exertions to raise them, and the greater part of them are already gone on to the Army: yet as the intended Operations
                                of the present Campaign will not admit of any diminution of the force required—it is earnestly recommended to the
                                several States represented in this Convention to cause their compliment of men to be immediately completed.
                            2dly That in order to preserve Uniformity in the Purchases in the different States aforesaid, and to
                                prevent irregularity and disappointment in procuring and forwarding the Supplies to the Army. Resolved That it be
                                recommended to the supreme Executives of each State to direct the Persons at the Head of the purchasing Department in
                                them respectively, to correspond with each other, and as often as once every Month, to inform each other of the
                                Purchases they have made, what they have sent on; and what they will be able to furnish in the run of a Month with the
                                average Price they give.
                            3dly Resolved that it be recommended to the several States aforesd as a Measure necessary, that they
                                transport their Quota of the Supplies required to the Army, or wherever the Commander in Chief, or other proper
                                Officer, shall direct, for the present, and until other Means of Conveyance are provided, and charge the same to the
                                United States, and to give Information thereof to the Commander in Chief and the Committee of Cooperation.
                            4th Resolved That it be recommended to the several States to impower the Chief Officer of the American
                                Troops serving with the allied Army, to take prudent Measures to prevent any Imposition or Frauds being practised by
                                People bringing Provision &c. to market, at the Army, by extorting exorbitant Prices, or otherways, and to
                                issue such Orders from time to time as may have a Tendency to induce People to bring plentifully to Market and to sell
                                at reasonable Prices.
                            5thly Resolved That it be recommended to the several States, that have Acts laying an Embargo on the
                                Transportation of Articles, by Land, from one State to another, to repeal them, as being unnecessary and tending
                                rather to injure, than serve the common Cause we are engaged to support and maintain, to continue Embargo’s on
                                Provision by Water, and that particular care be taken to prevent all illicit Trade with the Enemy.
                            6thly It is considered to be of great Importance that the old continental Bills should be sunk agreeable
                                to the Resolution of Congress in order to support the public Credit; and that all the States should adopt effectual
                                Measures for that Purpose. Therefore Resolved to recommend to our respective States to sink the Quota of the said
                                Bills assigned them, by Taxation as far as possible; and in case the whole cannot be sunk within the Time limited by
                                that Means, that the States employ such other effectual Measures for the purpose as shall be most agreeable to them.
                            That each State immediately inform Congress of the Measure they have taken: which were adopted in full
                                confidence & expectation of the other States complying with the Resolution of Congress which will be rendered
                                extensively beneficial, only by the cooperation of all, and may be totally defeated by the failure of any.
                            7th Resolved to recommend to each of these States as a necessary Means to support the credit of the new
                                Bills: immediately to establish Funds for sinking annually at least one sixth Part of the Bills they shall emit
                                pursuant to the Resolution of Congress and that the Tax for raising a fund for the first year be paid in Silver and
                                Gold or the Produce of the Country—the other five years to be paid in Silver & Gold on the specific Bills, not
                                to be reissued that the credit of the Paper Bills must rest upon the Funds provided for their redemption—As in our
                                Opinion every attempt to support their credit by forcing them into circulation tends to defeat the Purpose &
                                to depreciate them.
                            8th Resolved to recommend to the States aforesaid, not to emit any more Bills on their own particular
                                credit And in no case to have in circulation, at any one time, of both State and new continental Bills, more than the
                                quantity assigned them by the Resolution of Congress.
                            9th Resolved that it be recommended to the States aforesaid that whenever any Soldier or Seaman belonging
                                to any of the said States passing through another State shall fall sick and be in want (where he cannot be
                                conveniently sent to a public Hospital) the Selectmen and Overseers of the Poor of the Town in which he shall so fall
                                sick &c. shall take care to provide for him necessary Physick and Nursing at the expence of the State to which
                                he belongs, keeping a particular account of the expences, and have the same subscribed by said Soldier or Seaman, with
                                a Certificate of the State, Town, Regiment & Company or Vessel to which he belongs whenever it can be done;
                                which account shall be adjusted and paid in the first instance by the State in which he fell sick, and be reimbursed
                                by the State to which he belongs.
                            10th Resolved that it be recommended to the States aforesaid to use proper caution to prevent any
                                improper Articles of Intelligence being communicated to the Enemy thro’ the Channel of News Papers or otherwise, to
                                the prejudice of public Measures.
                            11th Resolved that it be recommended to the States aforesd that whenever any Levies of Men are called for
                                from said States, the Men procured or hired by one State or their Subjects from another without the License of the
                                State to which the Man belongs shall be counted to the Quota of the State to which he belongs in like manner as
                                Soldiers raised for the continental Army.
                            12th Although in the Opinion of this Convention, no exertions ought to be spared on the part of these
                                States to facilitate and carry into execution the Measures adopted for the present Campaign: yet they conceive it to
                                be essential to our final Safety, to the establishment of public Credit, and to put a speedy and happy issue to the
                                present calamitous War, that the Union of these States be fixed in a more solid and permanent Manner—That the Powers of
                                Congress be more clearly ascertained and defined, and that the important national Concerns of the United States, be
                                under the Superintendency and Direction of one supreme Head—That the proper Estimates of our public Wants be
                                seasonably made, and the necessary Resourses provided and regularly & oeconomically drawn forth and expended.
                            To that end.
                            Resolved that it be recommended to the States aforesaid to impower their Delegates in Congress to
                                confederate with such of the States as will accede to the Confederation proposed by Congress, and that they invest
                                their Delegates in Congress with Powers competent for the Government and Direction of all those common and national
                                Affairs, which do not, nor can come within the Jurisdiction of the Particular States and that the States aforesaid
                                represent to Congress the importance and necessity of their so doing—That they form a permanent System, establishing
                                proper Boards, Officers and Regulations for the Direction of the several Departments necessary to be executed under
                                    Congress, to the end that proper estimates of the public Wants may be seasonably made and
                                sufficient funds of money provided for answering the same from the States, or by foreign loans, procured on the credit
                                of the United States, that the Resourses of the Nation may be regularly drawn forth and oeconomically expended And
                                that the States be seasonably called upon for Supplies of Men and Money for filling the public Magazines and the
                                establishment of an Army during the War.
                            13th Resolved that it be recommended to the States aforesaid to request of Congress, in order to prevent
                                such Embarrassments and Expence, as the States have labored under in furnishing Supplies for the present Campaign,
                                happening again—That effectual Means be immediately imployed to fill the public Magazines and to raise Men to fill the
                                continental Battalions, for the War by the first of January next—And it is further recommended that in case the War
                                continues, and Congress should not take Measures for the Purpose, and notify the States aforesaid by the first of
                                November next, that the said States do at all Events furnish their Quota of Men and Provisions, and charge the same to
                                the United States—And to preserve Uniformity in the Measures which may be necessary to be taken by these States in
                                common with each other; this Convention recommend a Meeting of Commissioners from the several States, to be held at
                                Hartford on the 2d Wednesday of November next and invite the State of New York and any others to join with them that
                                shall think proper.
                            Resolved that the Proceedings of this Convention be sent to the States of Rhode Island and New York with
                                a Letter from the President desiring their concurrence in the Measures agreed upon if they approve thereof.

                                Thomas Cushing President
                                (Copy)


Title: To George Washington from David Forman, 1 September 1780
From: Forman, David
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Freehold 1th of Septr 1780

                        I This afternoon recd information from my Intelligencer on the High lands of Middle Town That a Large Number
                            of Shipping Appeared Early This Morning in The Narrowes—At Twelve OClock One Hundered Sail had Come too at Sandy Hook and
                            a Number of Large Ships Then on There way down from The Narrowes—Some of Them he Thinks are Large Ships of War, but Could
                            not determin with Certainty when he sent of the Express to me.
                        All accts from New York agree that There has been an Amazingly severe Press there for Some
                            time Past and still Continues—That the People are very generally dissatisfied and dispirited—it was allso said Sir Harry
                            was Imbarking his Troops for Rhode Island—As Soone as The fleet makes sail and any Opinion Can be formed of there Course
                            your Excly shall be informed of it. I have The Honr to be Your Excellencys Most Obdt Huml. Servt

                            David Forman


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Sim Lee, 1 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Thomas Sim

                            Sir
                            Hd Qrs 1st Septr 1780.

                        I beg leave to inform Your Excellency that the Commission of Colo. Price of your line, has been transmitted
                            to me in a Letter dated at Frederick Town the 31st of April last, informing of his determination to resign. The Letter was
                            a most unreasonable time on its way and by some means was not signed, but from the subject of it, and the circumstance of
                            its inclosing his Commission, without doubt it came from him. Your Excellency, if You think proper will communicate His
                            resignation to the Board of War, with your Certificate directing the promotions of the Officer who is to succeed in
                            consequence, and such other promotions as the event must involve. The Officers promoted will be entitled to rank from the
                            31st of April.
                        I also beg leave to inform Your Excellency, that I have within a few days past received a Letter from your
                            Major John Stewart of the Maryland line dated at Baltimore the 12th Ulto in which he mentions "that the command of the
                            Additional Regiment raising by the State, has been given to a Mr Jones, who was a Young Captain in the third Regiment and
                            who resigned last Winter and suggesting that he had left the Officers of the line in a state of great dissatisfaction and
                            that he anticipated the most fatal consequences from the appointment whenever they should be informed of it." From the
                            experience I have had in cases which were similar, I cannot but add that I am much afraid the event will be attended with
                            great uneasiness and indeed disagreeable convulsions. The making this communication is a matter of delicacy with me, but I
                            confidently rely that I shall stand justified to Your Excellency & the State & that You will indulgently believe that
                            I do it, not from a wish to interfere, in the most distant manner with the Arrangements or appointments they may think
                            proper to make upon any occasion, but from motives of a very different nature. These I hope will at once occur and
                            therefore I shall only add that I have the honor to be, With perfect respect & esteem Yr Excellency’s Most Obed. servant

                            G. W.


Title: General Orders, 2 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To:

                            Head Quarters Tean Neck. Saturday Septr 2d 1780
                            Parole Asia
                            Countersigns Atlas Arts
                            Watchword March March

                        For the Day Tomorrow
                        Brigadier General Irvine
                        Colonel Chambers
                        Lieutenant Colonel Vose
                        Brigade Major White
                        For Guard
                        Major Harwood.
                        The Army will march tomorrow morning—The General will beat at three ô clock—the Assemblé at half past
                            four—and the march will commence precisely at five. the Quartermaster General will furnish the order of march and route.
                        After Orders
                        Colonel Gansevoort is appointed officer of the day for this day vice Colonel Johnston indisposed.
                        The march of the Army is postponed ’till eight o clock tomorrow morning—the same intervals are to be observed
                            in beating the General and Assemblé previous to the march as directed in the first order of this day.


Title: From George Washington to Benedict Arnold, 2 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

                            Dear Sir,
                             Head Quarters Liberty Pole Bergen County 2nd Sep. 1780

                        Having received intelligence that the Enemy are in preparation for some important movement, I thought it
                            advisable that you should be apprised of it—because it is uncertain (if the information should prove true) whether their
                            object will be an attack on the Main Army or an attempt on the Posts in the Highlands. I wish you therefore to put the latter in the most defensible state which is possible.
                        Orders are already given for the two State Regiments of Connecticut to form a junction with Colonel
                            Sheldon—And in case the Enemy should make demonstrations of a serious attack of the Fortifications on the North River, you
                            will immediately call this force to your releif, collect all your detachments, and withdraw the Garrisons from the Posts
                            at Kings Ferry—At the same time removing all the stores from thence—For this, and other purposes, you will be pleased,
                            without delay, to order sixty of the largest flat Boats to that Place, with five Men each, to be ready to act as circumstances may require. I
                            am Dear Sir Your Most Obedient & Very Hble Servant

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. The hands for the beforementioned Boats are to be good Watermen—they are not to be out of call
                                from the Boats—Be under the care of a good Officer & one who understands the management of them—and to be ready to
                                move at a moments warning as they may be suddenly called upon.

                            G. W——n


Title: From George Washington to Benedict Arnold, 2 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters Bergen County 2d Sepr 1780

                        You will receive a letter from the Commy General of Issues by this conveyance upon the subject of supplies—He
                            informs you of what you may expect in lieu of what he has been obliged to draw down from West point—I am sorry that you
                            have been obliged to consume the salt provision in the Garrison, but necessity has no law.
                        The Militia Officers must be served with Rum agreeable to the late General Order for the supply of all
                            Officers. This I imagine has been transmitted by the Adjt General. I am Dear Sir Your most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to William Crane, 2 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Crane, William

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Bergen County 2d Sepr 1780.

                        I have recd intelligence which seems to indicate a move of the enemy, but upon what quarter I cannot
                            certainly determine. You will however keep a very vigilant look out upon the sound from Newark to Elizabeth Town; and if
                            you hear of any preparations made to pass, or perceive any move in considerable force, you will instantly take the
                            speediest means to alarm the Country and to convey the intelligence to me. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Charles-François, vicomte Du Buysson des Aix, 2 September 1780
From: Du Buysson des Aix, Charles-François, vicomte
To: Washington, George

                            Sr
                            Hilsborough Sept. 2d 1780

                        the Baron Requested me in his last moment to Inform Your Excellency of the Particulars of His Death, I must
                            Begge leave for this moment to refer You to the letter wrote to Colo. Hamilton, I think it will be
                            Improper in me to say more on the subject, Except Your Excellency should think Proper in that Case at my Arrival at
                            Philadelphia I shall be ready to Enlarge.
                        being myself wounded in Both hand and Arm and Very much Brused in the Brest I have
                            Obtained leave to Go to Philadelphia to Sollecet my Exchange for Lt Col. Hamilton but I have been Informed since how
                            Powerfull he is with the Indians and how hurtfull it may be to the states if I have not any other way to Go to france I am
                            Determined not to make any Proposals of that sort and had rather suffer than be Hurtfull to this Country—if Your Excellency
                            can Obtain my Exchange in any way that is not Injurous to this Country I should Esteem it as Great A favor as Can
                                render my Present Circumstance to Done to me and Ever remain with the Greatest
                            respect and Esteem Your Excellencys most Obedient and Very Humble servent

                            Le Chr Dubuysson


Title: From Tench Tilghman to Bartholomew von Heer, 2 September 1780
From: Tilghman, Tench
To: Heer, Bartholomew von

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters 2d Septr 1780.

                        His Excellency desires you to send a patrole under the command of an Officer down Barbadoes Neck as low as
                            Aurant Schuylers, from whence he must detach one small party to Kennedy’s house and another to the road leading thro’ the
                            Cedar swamps to Bergen—these two small parties are necessary for the security of the whole. If the Officer discovers any
                            movements of the enemy upon the quarter, let him give the General the most immediate notice. I Sir Yr most obt Servt

                            T. Tilghman

                            The patrole will return in the morning.


Title: To George Washington from Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, 2 September 1780
From: Lafayette, Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            Light Camp Septem. the 2d 1780

                        to My Great disappointment Mr P—— is Return’d this Morning and Brings no details with him—I Wanted him to
                            Go Again, But You alone Can induce him to do it—from what he Says, the Ennemy are going to undertake A great Movement—he
                            will himself wait on you and tell you what had been Said to him about Rhode island, and what about improving the
                            opportunity of theyr fleet’s going to London—tho I do not Believe they Mean to go to Newport, thought however it was
                            well to write a note to Count de Rochambeau which you will Send or Detain as Your Excellency thinks proper—Agreable to the
                            Arrangements of Signals Made By Mr p——, would it not be possible to hurry the Movements of the Ennemy without giving
                            them time to Ripen theyr Measures? With the Most tender friendship and high Regard I have the honor to be dear General
                            Your most obedient and Afectionate Servt

                            Lafayette


Title: From George Washington to Henry Lee, 2 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry

                            Dear Sir,
                            Head Quarters Septr 2d 1780.

                        Yours of the 31st Ultimo was delivered to me yesterday. I never hear of the intended resignation of a good
                            Officer without feeling pain, and shall be sorry for that of Captain McLean’s; but if he is resolved on the measure, It
                            is not in my power to prevent it.
                        The same principle that actuates Captain McLean, would occasion the resignation of half the Captains of the
                            line, if it was to pervade the whole: For the case of this Gentleman, when stripped of its colouring and exposed in its
                            natural form, is simply this: His first appointment as Captain was in one of the Additional Regiments,
                            and by his own account (and as I know the fact to be) far from the Oldest of that Rank. Had these Corps therefore been kept
                            up, he could not by the constitution of them have arrived to the rank he is now aiming at, ‘till all the Captains older than
                            himself had been promoted. But it being found impossible under our Military system, to support those Regiments, and equally
                            so to introduce Captain McLean into the Delaware Battalion, without disturbing the quiet of the Officers, the expedient of annexing him
                            to your Corps was adopted to avoid difficulties, at the same time that it would keep a good Officer in Service. The motives
                            which induced this; the obvious views at the time (however they may have changed since) were too well known to you
                            and to him, to need explanation. In what then is he injured? Is it because his views have expanded, and he is
                            not gratified in them? This would be a reason that could not stand the test of examination. Is it because some junior
                            Captains have obtained Majorities before him? Let him look through the line of the Army and he will find hundreds
                            still holding the Commissions of Captain, who are his Seniors in that line. Is it because he enlisted more Men than many
                            others? Though this is praiseworthy, I hope never to see it made the ladder to preferment; for we know from experience that
                            some of the most worthless characters we ever had among us, were the most successful recruiting Officers. In a word, I see no
                            injustice done Captain McLean, I see no cause of complaint that is not incident to, and resulting from our Military
                            constitution. I gave you my reasons against his promotion when you first moved the matter; and when afterwards the
                            application was renewed at the Board of War and they requested my opinion on the matter, I transmitted, to the best
                            of my recollection (for I have had no recurrence to papers) a Copy of my letter to you to them. This is all the Agency I
                            have had in the business; and this, unless circumstances should produce a change of sentiment; I should do again, I am with
                            much truth and sincerity, Your obedient servant

                            G. Washington.


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Holden Parsons, 2 September 1780
From: Washington, George
To: Parsons, Samuel Holden

                        Dr Sir,
                            Head Quarters Bergen County Sepr 2d 1780

                        Having received intelligence that the enemy were about some capital movement; I have directed Col. Wells to join Col. Sheldon in the vicinity of North Castle to act as circumstances may require—I wish you to repair to that place and take the command of the troops and if they should not be arrived to hasten their march. In case of a movement of the enemy up the North River, you will march to reinforce the garrison of West Point. otherwise you will wait General Arnold’s orders or mine. I am with great estem Dr Sir Your most Obedt servant

                    P.S. Should the Enemy cross into Jersey you are to menace their lines at Kings Bridge


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Reed, 2 September 1780
From: Reed, Joseph
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Bloomsbury Sept. 2d 1780.

                        I beg Leave to introduce to you Mr Sheill a Gentleman whose Enthusiasm in the American Cause has led him to
                            this Country with a very considerable Fortune. Being disappointed in his Expectations of visiting the Camp in a military
                            Capacity he wishes for an Oppy to pay his Respects to your Excellency as a private Gentleman.
                        Having dismiss’d the Militia collected the Military Stores & transferr’d to the Qr Master and
                            Commissary all that remained of our Forage & Provisions I shall set out immediately for Philada
                            where your Excelly may depend on every Exertion in my Power for the general Benefit. I have the Satisfaction of leaving
                            this Post better supplied than I found it having drawn from Bucks County a very considerable Proportion of Forage
                            & Provisions which we have left here.
                        The deranged State of our publick Affairs is indeed much to be lamented & apprehended but I shall
                            ever think they are to be ascribed to the Errors of the Year 1779 when the Prospect of a Winter Peace was evidently the
                            Basis of all the Measures of Congress: & a few landed Men apprehensive of the Taxes on their Estates pour’d out the
                            publick Money with such Profusion as to force the publick Bankruptcy—While they frustrated any Measure for restoring
                            publick Credit either by a foreign Loan or a vigorous internal Exertion.
                        In calling out the Militia of the State on this Occasion I have endeavoured to conform to your Excellency’s
                            Orders both in Letter & Spirit, they only regret that Circumstances have not permitted them to give you farther
                            Proof of their Affection & Confidence. And on any future Occasion I trust they will be equally ready to obey your
                            Commands. For my own Part (on every Account both publick & private) I shall be happy to give every possible Proof of
                            the sincere Attachment & Respect with which I am Dear Sir Your most Obedt & Affect. Hbble Serv.

                            Jos: Reed