Title: From George Washington to John David Wilper, 7 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Wilper, John David

Instructions for John Davd Wilper—Sergeant in the Virginia Regiment. By George Washington Esq. Colonel of the Virginia Regimt and Commander of all the Virginia Forces.
[Fort Loudoun] The 7th June, 1757.
You are hereby ordered to take charge of the Cherokee Indians, whereof Warhatclie and Yautanou are Chiefs, and to conduct them in the nearest and best way you can from this place, thro’ Augusta, Bedford & Halifax Counties, to the Borders of North-Carolina; and deliver them over to some civil or military officer of that Province, in order to their being further conducted towards their Nation.
That the Indians may not be disappointed in provisions; you are to send on a man a days march before you, to provide them: you are to get exact accounts of the kinds, quantities and value, from every man that supplies you; which you are to certify and keep copies, and endeavour to be as frugal of, as possible. The person who goes on before, is to desire the people at whose Houses the Indians may halt, carefully to conceal any liquor they may have. Shou’d the Indians however, behave in a mild discreet manner, you may at night give them a little rum mixed with water, if to be had; which you are to inform them is procured thro’ your own influence upon the white people, on account of their good Behaviour, and not by virtue of Orders. Shou’d any of the Indians misbehave, you are not to find fault with the agressor, but to apply for redress to Warhatclie only.
The party now at this place from Capt. Hogg’s company, is to march with you so far as their road and yours is one (and shou’d be supplied with provisions in the same manner that the Indians are; as they are intended for an Escort to them:) After which you are to order them to join their company; unless you shall find it necessary to take them farther, to keep the Indians from mischief. In such case you may carry the men, but in no other.
As you have applied to me for liberty of absence, you have hereby liberty for  days, after you shall have conducted the Indians, agreeably to the above Orders. Given at Fort Loudoun, this 7th day of June, 1757.

G:W.

To John D. Wilper. Sergeant in the Virginia Regt
The above is a true copy of the original. per me.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Bland, 7 June 1757
From: Bland, Richard
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Williamsburgh June 7th 1757

I had the pleasure of receiving your Letter by Mr Gist: and I assure you, I should look upon it as a singular Felicity, if I could contribute towards perfecting any Scheme, for the advantage of my Country: my Endeavours, so far as my Influence will reach, shall never be wanting. I had the mortification to find the Majority of our House, against the most vigorous measures, for effectually putting a Stop, to the French attempts upon our Frontiers; But tho’ numbers carried it against my Opinion, I am not yet convinced, that an attack upon Fort duquesne, or a lodgment near that Place, with a sufficient Force, so as to keep them in perpitual alarm, is impracticable. This is my favorite Scheme, and I should be very glad to hear of its having your approbation.
We have had a dispute with the Council, who flung out our first Bill of Supply, by an equal Division of 5 on each Side; upon the Question being put for a third reading. This strange Conduct, under our present situation gave our House great Resentment; they Voted a Severe Resolve against the Council and immediately ordered the Same Bill, under a different Title, to be brought in, which was passed in two days, and sent—again to the Council, who gave thier Concurrence to it upon more mature Consideration so that you are to have this year 1272 Men including non Commission Officers to compose your Regiment. and I do not at all doubt but that you will do every thing in your Power, for the advantage of your Country, that can be done by so small a Force; & I most heartily wish you success in all your undertakings.

Another Bill has passed our House for Laying out 5000£ in a proper Cargo of Goods to carry on a Trade with the Indians for the Public Benefit under the Direction of Colo. Peter & Wm Randolph. Mr Cary Mr Walker & my Self. this Bill is now before the Council if it passes into a Law, we shall I believe, engage with Mr Gist, as Factor, to carry it on: your Recommendation of him will have all proper weight with me and I am persuaded with the other Trustees or Directors as I have some thoughts of writing an Account of our Transactions, which I design to communicate to Public View in order to wipe off all Reflection from my Country and the Several Person concerned in the conduct of our Military Enterprizes so far as they can be justified; I shall take it ⟨a⟩s a peculiar Mark of Friendship, if, at your leisure Hours, if you have any, you would send me short Heads of such things, relative to the French Invasion, with the dates, when they happened, as you Judge most Interesting and proper for such a Work. I will speak the truth with boldness and I hope with approbation from eve⟨ry⟩ honest and good Man, amongst whom, I assure you wi⟨th⟩out Flattery, I place you in the first Rank. I ⟨am⟩ Dear Sir Your most humble Servant

Richard Bland

If I have the pleasure of hearing from you please direct to me at Jordans in Prince George County.


Title: Memoranda, 8 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun] 8 June 1757.

Get the Prices of all the Soldiers Cloathg from Colo. Carlyle—with a reasonable advance; and give it to each Captain with Orders to examine his Company’s necessary Roll once a Week (every Saturdy) witht Fail and to make stopages for every thing difficient besides punishing the Soldiers for neglect of Duty this to be done before they are paid.
Order also that each Sergeant of a Comy have a distinct Squad to take care of & to see that they always have their Cloathg & accoutrements in good Order.
Ditto 8th
Write the Governor that Captn Paris has got a Commission in the Maryland Forces—That Govr Denny has sent Invitations to the Cherokees to treat with him at Fort Loudoun in his Govt &
That I am apprehensive the difft Colonies striving against each other may be bad.
That I have removd Captn Stewart & Gists Company to this place & give him my reasons for doing it.
To desire that he will direct me concerning receiving the Drafts. And in what manner that Companys of Rangers are to be Cloathd, Paid & Comdd.
Also know how far in what points I am to pay Obedience to the Orders of Colo. Stanwix & if it shoud so happen that I receive Orders from himself & Colo. Stanwix differing (which is not unlikely) whose Orders I am to Obey.

Inform that Majr Lewis is come in inclose a Copy of his Letter.
Also that Lieutt Williams & Ensign Dean have resignd their Commissions.
Send down the names of all the Subaltern Officers & Seniority—and advice that the reducd Captns who may accept of Lieutys have their Commissions antedated to give them Rank before the present Subalterns.
recomd Sergeant Hughs for the Adjutancy.
Take care also to acquaint the Govr abt the bad Provisions at Fort Cumberland. that I apprehended Mr Walkers absence wd occasion such Accts—that I causd Mr Walker to be informd of it that he may give necessary Directns concerng it as I conceive the Loss will fall upon him—There has been foul play usd with it.
June 8th—Detach’d Posts.
Write to the Officers at all the Out Posts not to Impress Horses themselves, or suffer any under their Command to do it but in Cases of the utmost Emergency & then to take the greatest Pains imaginable to see they are returnd again. & paid for.
The greatest care imaginable is to be used in examining into the Soldrs necessarys & making Stopages for all Difficiencys.
They are to take great pains in Disciplining their Men & to learn the Salutes &ca themselves.
The Officers are to settle all their Affairs & accts which relate to the Provisions with the Commissary—& all that relate to their own & Company’s Pay with Mr Boyd. I have nothing to do with these Accts—thr Contingt acct wt. me.
For other Matters examine Captn Josh. Lewis Instructions & direct them agreeably.
June 8th
Know of the Govr whether we may replace the Blankets given from the Regiment by Colo. Stephen, with the Dutch Blanket⟨s⟩ now upon hand, sent for the Indians.
Also apply for leave to be absent to settle the Affairs belonging to my Decd Brothrs Estate.
June 8th
Know of the Speaker whether Captn Mercer receivd any Money of him on acct of Servts or otherwise—the Servants

names—Frans Nealis—belonging to William Smith—& Mathew Coleman Ditto Thos Longdon. both being valued at 15.3.0.
Whether he producd the Commissary’s & Quarter Master’s rects for Waggonage and receivd the Money for them &ca & if he has to desire a particular acct of the Sums & for what Services paid.
To beg of the Speaker to Interest himself in sending up money to discharge the Countrys Debts—The People are clamourous—I am liable, and unless supported must inevitably suffer. G——r will not consider this—but may only send up money to pay of the Troops which exasperate the Country People the more.
To Order, so soon as Captn Waggener & Majr Lewis comes to this place—Captn Woodward to March his Company to Vauses.


Title: Memorandum, 10 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun] June 10th [1757]

Write the Officers on the Branch not to furnish the Indians with Horses—if they do they may answer the Expense.


Title: From George Washington to John Baylor, 10 June 1757 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Baylor, John

Letter not found: to John Baylor, 10 June 1757. On 20 June 1757 Baylor wrote to GW: “Yrs of the 10th I rec’d.”


Title: From George Washington to John Robinson, 10 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Robinson, John

To The SpeakerDear Sir,
[Fort Loudoun] June the 10th 1757

A person of a readier pen and having more time than myself, might amuse you with the vicissitudes which have happened in the Indian Affairs since Mr Atkin came up. I acknowledge my

incompetency and therefore shall only observe that the Indians have been pleased and displeased oftener than they ought to have been. And that they are gone off (that party under Warhatclie, I mean) in different ways, and with far different views: One part southwardly, to their nation, and the other northwardly, to treat with the Pennsylvanians; contrary to the sentiments of Mr Atkin, who has I believe, sent to forbid any conferrence to be held with them.
Major Lewis is returned with part of the Indians that went out with him; in consequence of their having taken only 8 days provision with them. He was unable to prevail with those Savages to take more. One party of 20 with 10 Soldiers is gone toward Fort Du Quesne, under Captain Spotswood; and another party of 15 with 5 Soldiers, under Lt Baker, but they course towards Log’s-Town. God send them success and a safe return, I pray.
Unless you will interest yourself in sending money to me to discharge the public debts, I must inevitably suffer very considerably; as the country people all think me pledged to them, let what will happen. They are grown very clamorous; and will be more than ever incensed, if there shou’d come an inadequate sum, and that sum be appropriated to the payment of the Soldiers.
I am convinced it wou’d give pleasure to the Governor to hear that I was involved in trouble: however undeservedly, such are his dispositions toward me.
I shou’d be glad to know whether Capt. Mercer received any money from the public while he was down: and if he did, on what account. If he did not, I shou’d be glad you wou’d pay none, until you hear further from me, altho’ he may have drawn Orders—’Tis on the account of the Public I desire this.

G:W.


Title: To George Washington from James Baker, 10 June 1757
From: Baker, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fort Cumberland [Md.] June 10th 1757

I Yesterday returned to this place with the Cherokees and have the Satisfaction to acquaint you that on the 5th Instant we fell on two Tracks about 35 Miles beyond the three Forks of Yohagany in a small path that led towards this place, we had not followed those Tracks above eight or Ten Miles, before we met 10 Frenchmen returning from a Scout, our foremost Indian discovered them first and sat down very cose we all following his example, when the Frenchmen came within about fifty paces they saw our Men all Naked, and called to us and ask’d who we were, at which time we all rising together fired on them which they returned, we waited not to lode again, but run in with our Tomahawks the Frenchmen then making of as fast as they cou’d, but the Indians out runing them took two of them prisoners, the French lost six Men two killed dead on the Spot, two wounded, and two taken prisoners[.] Our loss tho’ fewer in number is greater to us, the Swallow Warrior was Shot dead by a Ball in the head, and another Indian Wounded in both Thighs[.] The Indians was so enraged at the loss of their head Man that it was imposible to save the other prisoner. Among the Frenchmen there was three Officers, two of which was killed and the other we have here. I send the Instructions of two of the Officers here inclosed. We have suffered greatly on our return not tasting a morsel for four days, and carrying the Wounded Man on our backs. I cannot tell when I shall come down the Indians are not determined I am Sir Your Most Obt Humble Servant.

J. Baker


Title: Memoranda, 11 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun] June 11th [1757]
Govr

Send to him the proceedings of the Enquiry Court upon Lt Campbell.
Ditto—Instructns to the Offrs of Out Pos⟨ts⟩.
Not to provide any Indians with Horses but in extraordinary Cases nor to hold any conferences & treatys with them or to make them any Promises—nor give them liquor.
Mr King—Ditto
Tell him to take up all the Horses brot by the Indians from the Indians & to take great pains in having them delivd to their proper owners.


Title: From George Washington to Robert McKenzie, 11 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: McKenzie, Robert

[Fort Loudoun, 11 June 1757]
To Capt. McKenzieSir,

The exorbitant expence, and bad precedent of giving to every Indian who is pleased to demand it, a Horse to ride, compel me to tell you, that a stop must be put to the practise, or the officer who directs it will be made liable for the cost. The Country will not allow it; Nor are you to give them liquor, but upon extraordinary occasions.
I have the pleasure to inform you, that you are one of the Captains continued in the Service; and that I have passed all your accompts which you put into my hands, except that of contingencies, which lies over for vouchers: as soon as you procure these, the Committee consent to the payment. After this it will, I presume be needless to say, that you ought not to pay a farthing without taking a receipt for it. I am Yrs &c.

G:W.
June the 11th 1757.


Title: Memoranda, 12 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

Colo. Stanwix
[Fort Loudoun] June 12 [1757]

Write to him in behalf of the Govr to know whether he can furnish the Virginia Troops with arms.
Also ask him what Batmen are allowd to a Company in thier Service—and what to each Officer.
June 12 to be done in Winchester
Have the Prisoners tryd to morrow.
Enquire of the Officers Ensign Perts Character—The Officers refusing to Rank with him.


Title: Enclosure I: List of Junior Officers in the Virginia Regiment, 12 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[12 June 1757]

If your Honor is pleased to promote the Officers &c. according to their seniority, and present Rank in the Regiment: They will then, if there are twelve companies, stand as follows.

                  Lieutenants
                  Lieutenants

                  13 Peter Steenburgen
                  1 Capt. Lt Jno. McNeil

                  14 John Campbell
                  2 Christopher Gist

                  15 John King
                  3 Thomas Bullet

                  16 James Baker
                  4 Walter Stewart

                  17 Nathanl Gist
                  5 Hancock Eustace

                  18 Mordecai Buckner
                  6 John Blegg

                  19 Wm Dangerfield
                  7 John Edwd Lomax

                  20 Edwd Hubbard
                  8 Charles Smith

                  21 Leonard Price
                  9 George Weeden

                  22 Wm Flemming
                  10 Wm Crawford

                  23 Nathanl Milner
                  11 James Roy

                  24 Nathanl Thompson
                  12 James Duncanson

                  Ensigns

                  1 Jethro Summer

                  2 Henry Russell

                  3 Griffen Pert

                  4 John Lawson

                  5

                  6

                  7 Wm Woodford

                  8 Colby Chew

                  9 Benj: Bullet

                  10    Starke

                  11 Thomas Gist

                  12 Vacancy

There remains according to this a vacancy for an Ensign, to which I wou’d humbly recommend Mr Kirkpatrick—with the Office of Commissary of Musters. If Captn McNeil should be promoted Capt. Gist will be Captn Lt in his room; and another Ensign will be wanted: In that case the oldest Ensign will be made Lt—and I would beg leave to speak in behalf of Mr

Thomas Rutherford for the vacancy of Ensign. He is a young man who, for his modesty and good behaviour gained a very good reputation as Lieutenant of one of the Ranging Companies on this quarter. I am Yrs

G:W.


Title: Enclosure II: Court of Inquiry, 9 June 1757
From: Stewart, Robert
To:

[Fort Loudoun, 9 June 1757]

At a Court of Enquiry held at Fort Loudoun June 9th 1757 to enquire why Lieut. Campbell did not according to Colo. Washingtons Orders proceed with the Detachment that was destin’d for South Carolina.
Capt. Robert Stewart President

                  Capt. Bell
                 Members
                  Capt. Lieut. McNiel

                  Lieut. Lomax
                  Ens. Thompson

                  Ens. Crawford
                  Ens. Roy

                  Ens. Russell

Lieut. Campbell being ask’d whether he had received Colo. Washingtons orders to go with the Detachment to South Carolina, answer’d he had, and that in Consequence of these orders he joind the Command intended for that place with which he remain’d 3 Weeks when Lieut. Colo. Stephen order’d him to rejoin his former Company which orders were deliver’d him first in the presence of Ensign Hubbard and after wards repeated before Capt. Bell and Lieut. Lomax with these Circumstance that Lieut. Colo. Stephen express’d his surprise that any Officers should be absent from his Command that he (Lieut. Campbell) reply’d that it was contrary to his desire that he was absent from his, that then Colo. Stephen order’d him out of Town immediately & upon his telling him he had no Horse the Lieut. Colo. reply’d Horse or no Horse by God you must go.
Capt. Bell and Lieut. Lomax affirm that they heard the orders given and nearly in the same terms as above.
Ensn Roy says that he was in Company with Lieut. Colo. Stephen & Lieut. Campbell, that Lieut. Campbell was mentioning something he intended to do, when he should get to Charles Town, that then Colo. Stephen said why John I thought you did not want to go there and that the Lieut. reply’d that he had never told any Body so and was much surpris’d how he shou’d think so the Colo. still insisted that he did not want to go—Ensn Roy likewise says that he either imagin’d that Lieut. Colo. Stephen intended these orders as a hint to Lieut. Campbell, that his Compy wou’d be disagreeable or that he wanted to substitute another Officer in his Room.

Lieut. Campbell further says that from several circumstance he imagin’d that Lieut. Colo. Stephen intended that Ensn Hubbard shoud go in his Room, and that then he apply’d for Leave to stay wch was granted & Ensn Hubbard appointed for the Command.
It is the unanimous opinion of the Court that as the Command devolv’d upon Lieut. Colo. Stephen in the absence of Colo. Washington that Lieut. Campbell was under a Necessity of punctually obeying his orders, and that he had acted that part which he had allways done of a good Officer.

Robert Stewart


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 12 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

To The GovernorHonble Sir,
[Fort Loudoun] June 12th 1757.

Since closing my packet for your Honor of this date, I have received by Express, from Fort Cumberland the agreeable news of Lt Bakers return to that place with 5 scalps & one french officer, prisoner. Two other officers were also made prisoners; but one of them being wounded and unable to march, the Indians killed; and the other they served in the same manner soon after: and both contrary to the intreaties of Mr Baker. In this they took revenge for the death of the truly brave Swallowwarrior, who was killed in the skirmish, and for the wound received by his son; whom they brought from the head of Turtlecreek,

where the Engagement happened (about 100 miles beyond Fort Cumberland) on their shoulders, without eating a morsel the whole distance. The name of the officer commanding the french troops on the Ohio, together with the names of the two who were killed, and the other taken prisoner, are given in by the latter, as enclosed. The party they engaged, consisted of 10 french, 3 of whom were officers; who had parted only the day before with fifty-odd Shawnese, returning from war. Our people wou’d have taken the whole party, had it not been for unfortunate loss of the indian chief, which put a stop to his mens pursuing. If this party was to meet with a reward for their Scalps and Services, with no more difficulty, than Warhatclie did in maryland; it wou’d be attended with happy consequences: If they do not, discontent and murmurring will ensue.
I have spoken to Mr Atkin about the prisoner whom the Indians have brought in; and he will endeavour to have him brought to this place.
I have this instant received your Honors letter by Captn Gist; and must observe in answer thereto, that it was the refractory behaviour of the cherokee indians, which caused Capt. Mercer to promise them presents. It is very certain he had no power or authority to do it: But his case was peculiar. These Indians came upon him expecting presents; and no orders or Instructions (I believe) were sent concerning the manner in which they were to be treated: Upon which they grew dissatisfied and unruly; and he therefore, with the advice of the Officers, chose rather to make them the promise he did, than suffer them to run back in a discontented mood! This was the (alone) alternative he was reduced to, if I am rightly informed. I fancy your Honor will not think, him, upon a second thought, so much to blame, as might appear at first view: especially when it is considered that he (nor are any of us who are now here) is but little acquainted with the proper manner of treating them. Indeed I am fearful, as I have frequently observed, that unless some person is appointed whose sole business it shall be to take charge of those people, there will be many other errors committed equally pernicious with this (if it be a wrong measure at all.) I have spoken to Mr Atkin sundry times on this head. He thinks it the most advisable, yea, the best plan that can be devised,

to answer our purposes. But says, unless the Colony will support the expence, he can not appoint such a person, having no authority from the Crown to incur the expence which wou’d attend that appointment.
Enclosed is a return of the arms and ammunition at this place. I shall acquaint Colo. Stanwix that your Honor desires to know whether arms may be had of him, if they shou’d be wanted.
There are many indian accompts against the Country—The people are continually at me to know who is to take them in, and how they are to be paid. I hope your Honor will direct Mr Boyd, that he may satisfy the Creditors. I am &c.

G:W.


Title: Memoranda, 13 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun] June 13th [1757]

   Draughts:
Not to receive any but what is fit for the Service; reject all that are old—Subject to Fits—and otherwise infirm.
Keep Copy’s of all the Receipts given for the Men: take exact lists of their Names—Countys they Come from hight Age Complection &ca so soon as they are receivd.
Give the Officer who receives them a Copy of the Act to govern himself by.
Dont let him give receipts either for Arms Cloaths or anything else unless orderd so by the Act.
13 Edwards’s
Enquire how that Garrison is provided with Ammunition & send them some.
Philadelphia
Send there and see if a man can be engagd to teach the Fife.
13 Fort Loudoun
Have the returns for Provisions & other things relating to this Duty put under better regulation’s.
And Order the Commissary some times to give out Bacon to the Troops.


Title: Memorandum, 14 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun] 14 [June 1757]

   Colo. Stanwix.
Send him Colo. Carlyles Letter.
Write him abt Lieutt Bakers Success.
That the People come in pretending to be from Captn Spotswoods party must be Deserters.
That Our Assembly have voted 80,000 for raising 1200 Men &ca.
That I shoud be glad to know whether the Officers Servants are allowd Provisions. how the Officers themselves are allowd. that is in regard to the quantity or any thing in lieu of it.
Whether the Officers are allowd Bat Horses—or have their Baggage Transported at the Publick expence or their Own.
⟨W⟩hether the Officers Bat Men are Cloathd at the Expence of the Publick or their own. and what sort of Cloathing.
Whether they do any Duty as Soldiers, and whether they are Armd.
Whether Forrage money is allowd the Officers.
How many Women is allowd to a Comy of 100 Men.


Title: To George Washington from John Dagworthy, 14 June 1757
From: Dagworthy, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Fort Cumberland [Md.] June 14. 1757.

Six Cherokee Indians who just now came from Fort Du Quesne, say that six days ago they saw a large body of troops march from that garrison, with a number of waggons & a train of artillery, & by their route, must intend an attack on this garrison. I am, Sir, Yr most humble servt

Jno. Dagworthy.


Title: To George Washington from James Livingston, 14 June 1757
From: Livingston, James
To: Washington, George

Fort Cumberland [Md.] 14th June 1756 [1757]6 at night
Sr

I am desird by Capt. Dagworthy to accquaint you that their is a great body of the Enemy one their way too these frontiers where they intend is not Certain the Intellegince Comes from 6 of Capt. Spotswoods party that arrivd hear about 3 oClock this afternon, Says Capt. Spotswood left them 10 days ago these 6 Seprated themselfs from the Rest and went to Fort De Quisnie where they Stay’d Some days and saw the preparations making for the march. but Wanting provisions Was forc’d to Come of to Some Distance to fire their Guns as their was none to be got by their arrows, they heard a great gun fire’d near where the Battle of mononghela was fought which they had Cros’d the Ground 10th Instant and desires all their Brothers to Come as Soon as possible to their assistance[.] Liut. Baker marcht this day at 11 oClock with all the Indians only 2 left with the Swallows Son which I’m afraid will die, Ive wrote to Mr Baker to Detain them at pearshalls untill they hear from you but am afraid it will not be in his power as they are fully bent to Se the Great man that is Come from King George and Expects presents they Stay’d but 4 hours after the letter was Explain’d to them Capt. Dagworthy would have wrote to you but being busey in writing to Colol Stanwix and their Govr had no time you will Excuse my hurry as we are in great perpexilty hear at fort Cm. I am yr Humbe Servt

James Livingston

P.S. Since my writing they have made us Sensible that they Were one their march with a nomber of Wheel Carridges and men in inumberabl and had marcht 2 days befor they Quit the

mononghela waters they furture Say they Saw them Cross the Said River and Guns Greater then any at this fort youll observe this is Indian news which I Realey belive to be true not a white men Come in yt and furture Says they found a Stocking belonging to one white man which Caus⟨es⟩ Suspition hear the whole is Cut of ⟨Keenifftikee⟩ is not come in ⟨with five⟩ men which is expected hourly. Capt. Dagworthy desires ⟨you will send⟩ ane Express to Coll Stanw⟨ix and Governor Sharpe⟩ in Case the Express may ⟨be taken he has⟩ Sent, further the Six that ⟨Came in three of them is⟩ wounded and one of them ⟨was killed being seven in⟩ nomber when they Seprated ⟨from Captain Spotswood by a Party of French⟩ Indians near the bear Ca⟨mp they stayed ’till dark⟩ and went back for their Baggage and Came in 4 Days from the French Fort they are momenty giving fresh Intelegince therefor must Conclud with this Confus’d Paragraph.

J.L.

a Safe Delivarence never was in Greater Jeopardy no men no provision &c. this is the Cry of This Garrison this is the second Express This Man has been sent and no pay for it vzt when Trent Came in and the Catabaw Indian the next Colol I belive may be from Montreal for never Such a Set was Collected as We have to defend a Garrison for my part I am Easey if Indians I must fight but if french as long as Wee can but am afraid the Great Guns wont be Loaded a second time by us.


Title: From George Washington to John Stanwix, 15 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Stanwix, John

To Colonel StanwixSir,
[Fort Loudoun] June 15th 1757.

I have the pleasure to inform you, that a scouting party, consisting of 5 Soldiers, and 15 Cherokee Indians, who were sent out the 20th ultimo, towards the Ohio, under Lt Baker, returned the 8th instant to Fort Cumberland with 5 scalps, and a french Officer prisoner; having killed two other Officers of the same party. Mr Baker met with this party (10 french, 3 Officers) on the head of Turtle-creek, 20 miles distance from Fort Du Quesne (the day after they had parted with 50 Shawnese Indians returning from war) and wou’d have killed and made prisoners of them all, had not the death of the indian chief, who was killed in that skirmish, prevented their pursuing them.
The name of the Officer, taken, according to his own account, is Velistre; and of those killed, Lasosais and St Oure, all Ensigns.
The Commandant at Du Que[s]ne and its Dependances, is Delignery; a Knight of the Military Order of St Louis; and Captain of a company of detached troops from the marine. This Officer likewise says, that the Garrison at Fort Du Quesne consists

of 600 French and 200 Indians. I believe he is a Gasconian. We sustained on our side the loss of the brave swallow warrior, & one other Indian wounded; whom the party brought in on a Bier, with no other sustenance for the four last days, than such as they derived from wild onions. Mr Atkin (who is now here) and I, shall use our endeavours to have the prisoner brought to this place.
Captn Spotswood, with 10 Soldiers and 20 Indians, who went out at the same time with, but to a different place from, Lt Baker, is not yet come in, nor any news of him—which makes me uneasy.
Our Assembly have granted a further sum of eighty thousand pounds for the service of the ensuing year. and have agreed (I believe) to complete the Regiment of this Colony to 1,200 men; besides three companies of Rangers, of 100 men each. Our strength, since the Detachment embarked for Carolina, amounts to only to 420 Rank & file; and these much weakened, by the number of posts we hold. Governor Dinwiddie is apprehensive that he shall not be able to provide arms for all these men; and desired me to advise with you thereupon.
If it is not too troublesome, I shou’d be glad to be informed what proportion of Bat-men there is allowed to a company of 4 Officers and 100 men, in the Royal american Battalions? Or, rather the allowance to each Officer, beginning with the Colonel? and how those bat-men are clothed, paid and victualled, and by whom? whether the Officers have any allowance made them for their Servants—and if the Officers in Garrison receive provisions as Soldiers, or an allowance in lieu of it—and how much to each? Also, if the Officers in their Battalions provide Bat-Horses at their own expence, or have their Baggage transported at the Kings? whether any Forage-money is allowed them—and what other allowances they have made to them. I shou’d also be glad to know what proportion of women is allowed to a company.
It is wrong I must confess, Sir, to trouble you in this manner; but I have particular reasons for asking these questions, and getting them answered by authority—and none unwarrantable.
Duty and inclination equally induce me to communicate all remarkable occurrencies to you; and shall be punctual in doing

so. At present, however, I have only to add that I am, with very great respect, Your most obedient Humble Servant,

G:W.


Title: Council of War, 16 June 1757
From: Council of War
To:

[Fort Loudoun, 16 June 1757]

Virginia
At a Council of War held at Fort Loudoun, Thursday, the 16th day of June, at 2 o’clock in the morning, 1757. Colonel George Washington, President

                  Captn Thomas Waggener
                 Members
                  Capt. Robt Stewart

                  Capt. McNeill
                  Captain Gist

                  Lieutenant Campbell
                  Lt Buckner

                  Ensign Crawford
                  Ensign Roy

                  Ensign Russell.

The Colonel laid before the council a Letter from Capt. Dagworthy, and another which he received from Maj. James Livingston, both dated at Fort Cumberland the 14th Instant; signifying that they had just received intelligence from six cherokee indians who went out upon a Scout with Capt. Spotswood towards Fort Du Quesne; that a large Body of French and Indians, with a train of Artillery, were actually marched from Fort Du Quesne with a design, as they conceived, to make an attempt on Fort Cumberland.
And after laying before them the strength and dispersed situation of the Troops in the pay of the colony—desired their opinion, whether it was most advisable, with what force we cou’d raise immediately, to attempt the relief of Fort Cumberland, or to remain here and endeavour to assemble a sufficient force to put this place in a posture of defence (which is at present not tenable) ’till we should have further Orders how to act?
It was unanimously agreed, that, if the French had crossed the monongahela the 10th instant, as these Indians declare, it is impossible to assemble our dispersed Troops, and march them to Fort Cumberland before the place is infested—That all our forces, supposing their junction practicable, are so inconsiderable, compared with the strength of the Enemy, according to our intelligence, which can admit of no doubt; as a train of artillery is of too great importance to them to risque with a small body of troops; We have great reason to think, that it wou’d be only to expose ourselves to a certain defeat, the consequence of which would inevitably be the leaving this place (the

depositary of all His Majesty’s and countrys Stores of every kind) naked and defenceless: which wou’d be attended with the immediate Evacuation of that part of the country, from whence alone subsistance for any considerable number of Troops cou’d be drawn: which at this juncture wou’d be an irreparable loss and probably be productive of the most fatal consequences to this Colony.
The Colonel likewise desired to know whether the Council judged it most expedient to continue the few troops now at Maidstone, and those dispersed thro’ the little Forts on the South-Branch—or to order them on the Branch, with the country men in that settlement, to the most advantageous post there; whilst their women & children shou’d retire to the interior Settlements—Or to evacuate the whole, and reinforce these troops here, with their united Garrisons?
It is the opinion of the Council that as reinforcing this Garrison is absolutely necessary; the detached enfeebled situation of the Garrisons on the South-Branch must make them fall an easy prey to the Enemy; and that as drawing them all to one place on the Branch would be giving up all that settlement except that place, which (supposing it cou’d be maintained) wou’d by no means be of such consequence as reinforcing this important place—That therefore they ought to be ordered hither immediately.

                  Wm Crawford
                  Jno. McNeill
                  G: Washington

                  Jas Roy
                  Christor Gist
                  Thomas Waggener

                  Henry Russell
                  Jno. Campbell
                  Robert Stewart

                  Mordec. Buckner


Title: Memorandum, 16 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

Fort Loudoun June 16th 1757.

The following account sent to Colo. Stanwix and Governor Dinwiddie together with the Council of War.
The number of men fit for Duty in the Virginia Regiment,

exclusive of the Detachment gone for Carolina—where stationed, and the distance of each Garrison from this place.

                  Men

                  Miles

                  At Fort Loudoun
                  100

                  At Maidstone
                  60
                  distance
                  36

                  At Edwards
                  16
                  do
                  22

                  At Pearsals
                  35
                  do
                  50

                  At Fort Pleasant
                  30
                  do
                  70

                  At Butter-milk Ft
                  28
                  do
                  78

                  At Harness’s Ft
                  27
                  do
                  81

                  At Powers Mill
                  28
                  distance
                  90

                  At Vass’s
                  60
                  do
                  210

                  384


Title: From George Washington to Andrew Lewis, 16 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Lewis, Andrew

To Major LewisSir,
[Fort Loudoun] June 16th 1757.

I have just received intelligence from Capt. Dagworthy and Major Livingston, that they were informed by six cherokee indians, of a large body of French and Indians being on their march towards Fort Cumberland.
You are therefore ordered to use every method (by means of the indians &c.) to gain intelligence of the real design and approach of this body of the Enemy: and if you find that they are numerous, and that their object is an attack upon Fort Cumberland, rather than the establishment of an advanced post for themselves, you are immediately to evacuate the small Forts on the Branch, and retire with the Garrison to this place. You should give the country people notice of their danger, and advise them at all events to send off their women and children before it may be too late! ✻ Take especial care to communicate to me all the intelligence you possibly can procure, if you shou’d be obliged to retire hither. Perhaps it may be more advisable to

cross the mountains above the Trough, rather than come down to Pearsalls, as your retreat may be intercepted at this place.

G:W.

N:B. To this mark (✻) is a copy of the Letter wrote Captn McKenzie.


Title: From George Washington to John Dagworthy, 16 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Dagworthy, John

Sir
Fort Loudoun June 16th 1757

I have seen your Letter, and have dispatchd Copy’s of it by good Expresses to Governor Dinwiddie, Govr Sharpe, Colo. Stanwix and the County Lieutenants of four Countys; so that I have no manner of doubt, but a very considerable Force will be with you in a very little time.
I have dispatchd the bearer to inform you of this, that it may give Spirit to your Garrison. I heartily wish you all the Success your merit may deserve, and am Sir Yr most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 16 June 1757
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Williamsburg June 16th 1757

I am to acknowledge the Receipt of Yrs of the 10th but I am so much hurried that I cannot answer it, but as Mr Boyd is daily expected by him I shall write You more fully.
Otassity of Ostenaker, conducts thirty Cherokees to You with Intention to go out against the Enemy; I think he is a brave Indian, & talks much of Majr Lewis; I believe he may be prevail’d on to stay with his People all the Summer.
They were desirous that Mr Gun shou’d go with them & if he goes with them to fight he shall have Lieutts Pay if You shd think him a proper Person—Excuse Hurry I am Sir Your humble Servt

Robt Dinwiddie


Title: To George Washington from William Fairfax, 17 June 1757
From: Fairfax, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Alexandria 17th June 1757.

I receiv’d yr Express this Morning at Belvoir in Compa. with Mr & Mrs Carlyle and soon after set off hither to consult with Majr West, the Captains Ramsay, Dalton, Terrett &c. On which have sent Orders to have the Several Companys to meet at different Rendezvous to morrow and Sunday, in hopes of making therefrom a Detachment of an hundred Men to meet at Mr Wm West’s on Monday night or Tuesday next at Farthest well accoutred except Ammunition which You’l be able to furnish the needful. If You find this Party insufficient We expect to Send more as required—Bryan Fx has desir’d a Command wch has been granted, in Hopes his Courage & good Conduct will give Testimony of his Capacity. The manner of his conceald Departure & Recovery He can best relate. He has experienct yr Kindness, therefore need not repeat any Desires in his Behalf—Yr late Alarm from Capt. Dagworthy may Serve to put your Soldiery in a fit Posture for Defence, but it seems unlikely

the Enemy can spare many Men from their No[rth]ern Garrison as They must expect to be visited by Lord Loudoun, Genl Webb or Colo. Stanwix. And your present Expectation will undoubtedly engage the Townsmen at Winchester & Neighbourhood to assist Your Endeavors to make Fort Loudoun more & more defensible against a common Enemy without battering Cannon wch they cannot bring this Sultry Season wthout stronger Horses than it may be supposd They can be furnishd with.
We desire to be further acquainted with the Occurrences as they happen. Wishing You &c. every Happiness, The Family at Belvoir & here joyn in all hearty Gratulations and desires that yr brave Men may keep the Enemy far from them, So says Yr very affect. Friend &c.

W: Fairfax


Title: To George Washington from Edward Shippen, 17 June 1757
From: Shippen, Edward
To: Washington, George

Sir
Lancaster [Pa.] 17 June 1757

I had the pleasure to receive your favour of 28 ult. by John Spore and Company waggoners with the Ammunition for His Majestie’s use, but there came a hundred and One Barrels of Gun Powder; and instead of 3 Tons of Lead, specified in the Receipt given you by Spore, there were but 48 boxes, designed at Home I Suppose, to contain One hundred pounds gross or 112 lb.: and I See that Mr Hamilton the Qr Mr mentions in the List he Sent by the serjeant 48 boxes calling them 120 pound each with the tare; however I caused one of them to be emptied,

and the lead to be weighed which proved to be but 111 lb.; So that if they all turn out the Same, it will amount to no more that 5328 lb. I mentioned this to Colo. Stanwix as Soon as I discovered the difference. I beg you will believe me to be (tho’ I have not the Honr of yor acquaintance) Sir Yor affectionate Friend & Most obedt Hume servt

Edwd Shippen


Title: To George Washington from John Stanwix, 18 June 1757
From: Stanwix, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Camp near Carlisle [Pa.] June. 18th 1757

I recd both yours of the 15th & 16th of June, by the Favour of Colonel Armstrong & some hour’s before that had recd intelligence from Capt: Dagworthy & Capt. Beal of their intelligence of the Motion of the French & Indians towards Fort Cumberland, on the receipt of which I directly apply’d to the Magistrates here for Waggons, for the Baggag artillery, Ammunition and Provisions: & the moment they are provid’d shall March with the Five Comps. of the First Battalion of the Royl Americans and what I can get together of Colonel Armstrongs Battalion wch I am hopefull will amount in the whole to six hundred men, shall march to Shippensburgh and from thence towards Winchester as I am inform’d there is thirty miles the other way to Fort Cumberland thrô the woods where there is no roads cut, and am the more inclin’d to come to Winchester to joyn you as it semes to be (for the reasons you give) the properest place to make a Stand & concert such measures as may be best for his Majestys service and shall depend a good deal upon your judgment & experience in the Opperations in this Country, which you know by being long in it & I a Stranger have consult’d Col. Armstrong who think’s with me that Winchester will be the properest place for a Rendevous & exept I meet with other intelligence on my March must make that my first object, hope soon to have the pleasure of kissing your hands who am Sir Your most obedt humble Servt

John Stanwix

I have a letter from Capt. Croghan who tell me he stay only two or three days at Winchester as his getting my letter would be uncertain please if you think propr to acquaint him with what I propose, & am a good deal hurryd or would have wrote to him dare say he will do that upon consulting with you, which may make the Indians of service, both you and he know infinately better then I can possibly know of Indian affairs.

P.S: I have just recd intelligence from Fort Allen in Pensilvania that an Indian lately come from Alleghany Says that the French Indians has actually cut a Road within ten miles of Fort Augusta, it appears they design to amuse us in Sundry places, And as I am leaving a Large County Open into which is a great Road cut from the Alleghany Hills, I must depend on your Intelligence being expeditiously sent that I may take my measures accordingly.


Title: Court-Martial, 19 June 1757
From: Washington, George,Waggener, Thomas
To:

June the 19th 1757

At a Regimental Court martial held at Fort Loudoun June the 19th 1757
Capt. Thos Waggener Presidt

                  Lieut. Steenbergen
                 Members
                  Lieut. Campbell

                  Ensn Crawford
                  Ensn Thompson

Prisoners
Wm Coffland Corpl of Capt. Lewis’s Company confin’d by Quarter Master Hamilton for laying out of Camp & disturbing the Inhabitants at an unreasonable Hour.
Mary Hinch an Evidence against the Prisoner informs the Court that he came into her House whilst she was asleep & came to her Bed & waked her & said that he must have Part of her Bed—the Evidence then asked him what Business he had at that Time of Night (about 2 oClock) from his Quarters, that she thought there were Orders to the contrary. he replied he was a Gentleman Officer & had Liberty to go where he pleas’d & when he pleas’d but she knew his Voice & told him he was but a Corpl & after he found that she knew him he confess’d who he was but insisted still for Part of her Bed which being refus’d he abus’d her very much, refus’d to quit the House & said that he wou’d abususe her much more tomorrow Night. upon which she called out & two of her Neighbours came to her Assistance but when she found that he persisted in his Design & abused them as well as herself she went to Qarter Master Hamilton (who has confin’d him) & begged his Assistance.
Mary Hany one of the Persons that came to assist Mary Hinch says that when she came he was in the House & very abusive.
The Prisoner confesses himself guilty, says that it was thro’ the Effects of Liquor that he did & begs the Clemency of the Court.
It is the Opinion of the Court that the Prisr Corpl Cofflin be reduced & receive five hundred Lashes.

Thos Brown of Colo. Washingtons Company confin’d by Serjt Carson on a Suspicion of his intending to desert. Serjt Carson says that he saw the Prisoner with one of the Indian Guns & his Hair cut in the Indian Manner & that he asked him why he had cut his Hair in that Manner & he said he was going

with the Indians, he asked him then whether he had Colo. Washington’s or any other Officers Liberty to go, the Prisoner answer’d no, he then told him that without Leave he shou’d not go, but that he (the Prisr) replied, It was his Pleasur⟨e⟩ to go & he wou’d go, upon which he, the Serjt, confin’d him.
The Prisoner in his Defence says that he was drun⟨k⟩ & did not know what he was doing.
It the Opinion of the Court that the Prisoner receive five hundred Lashes.

Jas Turner of Capt. Spotswoods Company confin’d by Capt. Josa Lewis for Desertion.
Copl Pope says that the Prisoner left his Command about one Mile on the other Side Neelys Fort as he was going to Maidstone & that he himself & another Man went after him but ’tho. they search’d the Road & the Woods on both Sides of the Road they cou’d not find him.
It appears to the Court from the Deposition of Elisha Perkins taken at Maidstone before Capt. Lewis Lieut. Lomax & others that the Prisoner had left his Command & had no Intention of returning to it again for that he was going towards Snigger’s Gap.
The Prisoner denies that he deserted but says that he was sick & drunk & lost his Way.
It is to be observ’d that the Prisoner has deserted before this Time & recd 1000 Lashes.
It is the Opinion of the Court that the Prisoner receive fifteen hundred Lashes.

Thos WaggenerApprov’d by Sir Yr Hble Sert  Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Edmond Atkin, 19 June 1757
From: Atkin, Edmond
To: Washington, George

Sir
Winchester 19 June 1757.

When the Swallows People came to Town this afternoon, with the Young French Officer their Prisoner, they came strait to my Lodgings, to pay their Compliment; and soon after carried him away to their own, to eat some Victuals, Hunger being uppermost in their Thoughts. In the Evening, before I would put you to the Trouble to attend (as I had determined to examine him then in the presence of yourself, & Mr Croghan Sir Wm Johnson’s Deputy), I Sent to inquire whether I might have him brought to me. And he was not to be found. Soon after standing at my door, I Saw your Quarter Master Mr Hamilton hastening by, in quest, as I learnt from himself, of my Interpreter (that is the King’s) Mr Smith, & of a Frenchman whose name he declined telling me, in order to carry them to Heath’s Ordinary to interpret for one or two Persons that wanted to talk with the Prisoner. In answer to My Question, how the Prisoner came there, he Said, he was carried there by an Indian and to another, who was it that wanted to talk with the Prisoner, I could get no Satisfactory Answer at all from him. At his Return with Mr Smith in Company, standing still in the Door, I charged the latter to go to Heath’s, & to bring away the Indian with his Prisoner directly to me. At the Same time directing myself to both I Said, I wondered how any Person whatever could presume (I beleive in my warmth I said also, dare) to take that Method to

examine the Prisoner, before I myself, or you the Commanding Officer of the Forces here, had had an Opportunity of asking a single Question of him? Major Finnie coming up to me presently afterwards, I told him what had happened, that I could not conceive who it was had been guilty of So extraordinary an Action, and desired him to be So kind as to inquire into it, & help to get back the Prisoner. He said, he was Sure it could not be any of your Officers, because he had but just left them all at the Fort (and indeed not long after I Saw a great many pass by from that way towards Heath’s). In a little time Major Finnie & Mr Smith came back, with the chief Indian, & the French Prisoner in his Possession; telling me, that it was only Lieutenant Baker that came to town with them, & wanted them to drink a Glass of Wine with him. Here I thought the Affair might have ended.
I then sent Mr Davenport to acquaint you, that the Prisoner was with me, and I should be glad of your Company, as I purposed to examine him. He brought me an Answer, that you was So very busy writing Letters, you could not possibly come. Wherefore I put off the Examination till tomorrow. But to my great Surpris⟨e⟩ Major Finnie who had undertook to desire one of your Officers to Stand Interpreter of French on this Occasion, brought Me Word, that he found many of them at Heath’s, who were one & all So very angry thinking themselves affronted by me, that it was declared among them, not one of the Regiment should do that Service for me (that little Service for their King & their Country). It Seems your Quarter Master Mr Hamilton, had told Some at least of those Officers what he had heard me utter (with Some Addition), as a Message from Me to them. I endeavoured as a Gentleman, by means of Mr Croghan as well as Major Finnie, only to Set the Matter in its’ true Light, as I have now done to you. But in vain. They will have it, I have given an Affront; and not less than all must be concerned in it, and So forth. By the way, had I known which I did not, that it was one or More Officers that Sent for the Prisoner to examine him, there was nothing amiss in what I said, bating the Word dare, which indeed is not very genteel if Said to them. For that Officer must know very little of Military Duty, who imagines he may freely examine a Prisoner of War before, or without the privity of his Commanding Officer. Something may be discovered

on Such Examination, that no Person else whatsoever ought to have had the least Knowledge of, and may be of the last Importance to the Service to keep concealed.
To compleat the whole Affair, learned Discussions have been held publickly on this Occasion, at another Publick House (Brinkers) by a young Ensign of your Regiment Supported by a young Volontier, who Says he thinks himself obliged to Stand by the Officers, right or wrong. This Ensign who pretends to know the Length, Breadth & Depth of my Rights & Powers by my Commission, in the End bid Mr Davenport in the hearing of one of my Domesticks & others, “to tell Atkin (mark his polite Stile) that he & every Officer in the Regiment had as much Right & Power to examine the Prisoner as I had.” This from Ensign Thompson, to his Majesty’s Agent & Superintendent of Indian Affairs in the four Southern Provinces.
It is easy to foresee the Tendency of this ill judged silly Spirit & Behaviour of the Officers. It cannot but affect me in my Office, & consequently in his Majesty’s Service; for which reason I think fit to lay it before you, not in the least doubting from your natural good Sense & Prudence, that you will check it in the Bud, & take proper Notice of Ensign Thompson & Mr Hamilton in particular. And I hope you will think this a proper Opportunity for making known to all the Officers of your Regiment (what I believe is not yet known to all), the Governour’s Proclamation concerning the Behaviour of People towards me & the Indians.
For my own part, as I have nothing in view but actual Service, So without entering into critical Disquisitions of the exact bounds & limits of my Right & Power, I shall always think it a part of my Duty to keep up a good Understanding with all Commanding Officers in the different Places I go to, as I know it will be their Duty also to countenance & support me to the utmost of their Power. I am Sir Your Most Obedt Servant

Edmd Atkin


Title: To George Washington from Alexander Beall, 19 June 1757
From: Beall, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Sr
Fort Fredrick [Md.] June 19th 1757

the enclosed Letters Came from Collo. Stanwix about 11 oClock this Night, and I have Immediatly Dispatched them to you, as the Collo. writes in a Very Importunate manner for intilligence, I Shall Send a Strong party out to Fort Cumberland to morrow, tho. we want Indians Very much for Such Service, and if a few Could be Spared this way, I Apprehend it would be Very much for the Bennefit of the Service; pray Favour me with what Intelligence you have Received Since the 14th from the Frontiers, that I may Convey it to Collo. Stanwix, which will be an Eas[i]er way of Communicating it to him, then if you Sent an Express directly from Winchester, I Shall Send it by Fort Loudon, and the Messenger will be picking up Somthing that May be of use in his way, if you Can Give me any hints of your Intentions, that may Enable me the better to Act for the Publick service you will infinitly oblidge your Most Obedt Hum. Servt

Alex. Beall

P.S. a Soldier who Seems to have deserted from Fort Cumberland, Left it the 16th in the Morning but brings Nothing New, only he discoverd five Indians in his way down about five miles from this Place, we Expect the Millitia of this County here to Morrow.


Title: To George Washington from William Fairfax, 19 June 1757
From: Fairfax, William
To: Washington, George

Dr Sr
Alexandria 19. June 1757

This is intended to be delivered You by Bryan Fx who is appointed by Commission Captain of one of the two detacht Companys of our Militia which its hopd will amount to the Number of fifty private Men each, and Sufficient at this Time to answer yr Expectation from Us. I sent immediate Notice to Colo. Hy Lee to act the needful with the Pce Wm Malitia, and Yrs for Govr Sharpe Sent over to Mr Marshals directly. As no doubt Govr Dagworthy Sent an Express to Colo. Stanwix He may expect a Reinforcement of the Regulars & some Provincials by Order of Govr Sharpe, so that probably the Enemy will be prevented marching towards your Fortress—We have given Orders to have our whole Militia in a Readiness to march on a Sudden Notice and further Advices of your needing any certain Number. What are now orderd to attend yr Commands[,] as They are at Some Distance from each Other, may Want Amunition and Provisions but suppose will be supplied & victualled as the Detachments were last Year—which being an additional Expence to the Country You will please to return to Us as soon as the public Weal & Service can Spare them.
In the Extract of an Act of the last Assembly
A clause inserted
“That every able bodied Person willing to enlist to serve in the Regiment shall be entitled to Five Pounds, And if no Person present will advance the sd Reward, then the Person so inlisting shall be paid the same within three Days after his Arrival at the Place of General Rendezvous, by the Commanding Officer of the Forces in the Service of this Colony.”
As it is very unlikely that any such Sums will be advancd by private Persons, so You may expect a direct Application will be made to You by the Persons So enlisting, therefore You will

think it necessary to be furnishd with a Sufficient Sum of Money from the Treasurer to answer the Demands aforesaid.
For pticulars referr to Bryan Fx and Him to your friendly Advice &c. Lodgd at yr Mother’s the 12th inst. then left Her &c. well. Yr very affecte & assurd Friend &c.

W: Fairfax


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Beall, 20 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Beall, Alexander

To Captn BealSir,
[Fort Loudoun] June 20th 1757.

Yours of the 19th instant came to hand about noon this day—As there now remain but a few Indians here, who cou’d by no

means be prevailed on to return towards Fort Cumberland, altho’ so much wanted on that Quarter; imagining we wished to sacrifice them by attempting to expose them to (what they think) certain destruction, they positively refused marching until they saw such numbers as wou’d give some probability of success against the formidable force of the enemy.
I have had no account later than that of the 16th—that one Trotter left that Garrison: Does he add what C.D. transmitted the 14th more than that the enemys indians were in great numbers about that place, and frequently appeared openly to the Garrison?
Should I receive any thing remarkable, will communicate it to you. I correspond in opinion with you, as to the chanel of conveying Colo: Stanwix’s intelligence: Therefore I enclose you a letter for him; which I must request, you will lose no time in forwarding.
I have endeavoured all in my power to raise the Militia, but have only a small prospect for success.

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to John Stanwix, 20 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Stanwix, John

To Colo. StanwixSir,
[Fort Loudoun] June 20th 1757.

Yours of the 18th from the camp at Carlyle, I received about noon this day: at a time when I was examining (in company with His Majestys Agent for Indian Affairs) the french prisoner, brought to this place by Lt Baker and the cherokee indian. a copy of his examination I herewith enclose. You will find, Sir, from the tenor of his answers, that a large body of Indians was hourly expected at Fort Du Quesne. And, that altho’ there was not (if his intelligence is to be literally credited—and surely it is not) a train of artillery fit for such an Expedition: Yet this might have been brought by those 300 men, who arrived there after he left the place.
It is altogether evident (if the indian intelligence may be relied

on) that the french are bringing Howitzers with them for the easier reduction of the place, if they shou’d attack us. For, say they, your Guns are but muskets, compared with those the french have with them. Theirs will admit a Fawn in the muzzle, while yours will not take in a mans fist. To any person who is in the least degree acquainted with the mountainous country about our Settlements, it is clear, that the french can bring artillery along no other road than that from Fort Du Quesne to Ft Cumberland, without spending immense time in mending one. Then I conceive the Garrison at Fort Augusta has been very negligent and inactive not to discover the enemy sooner. On the other hand, we all know that a blaz’d path in the eyes of an indian is a large road: for they do not distinguish between one track and another without a circumspect enquiry; i.e. between a track which will admit of carriages, and a road sufficient for them to march in.
These, Sir, are only my own sentiments, and I submit them to your better judgment for improvement. We very well know that from Fort Du Quesne to Fort Cumberland there is a plain road already made, and bridges also. I shall however continue to pursue every means in my power to gain the earliest and best intelligence I can of the approaches of the enemy: and shall transmit it forthwith to you. I have sent Major Lewis of the Regiment, fifty miles advanced from this, with Orders to keep out constant spies for intelligence, and to lose no time in transmitting it to me.
We have received nothing new from Fort Cumberland since the 16th—The indians who brought the first intelligence imagine, that some of Spotwood’s party, are yet skulking after, and watching for, the motions of the enemy. On the contrary I apprehend they are all cut off—For, a man who left Fort Cumberland the 16th says, that the woods appear to be quite alive with enemy indians who shew themselves openly in the day: This is unus[u]al for them to do, unless they are strong. We work on this Fort both night and day, intending to make it tenable against the worst event.
Mr Croghan &c. write you by this Express; and will no doubt be more explicit on indian affairs than I can pretend to be, and to them I refer.
It wou’d have given me great pleasure, had you been pleased

to signify your sentiments on the Revolution; having come to this place, that I might act conformably with your Orders. I am &c.

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to John Stanwix, 21 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Stanwix, John

To Colonel Stanwix.Sir,
[Fort Loudoun] June 21st 1757.

Since writing to you by Express last night, I have received a letter from Capt. Dagworthy (a copy of which I enclose;)

and have had an opportunity of examining the Indians, who brought him the last intelligence, myself. They unanimously agree, there is a large party of french and indians marched from fort du quesne; but, whether they are destined against the frontiers of virginia, maryland or Pennsylvania, or all of these, is yet uncertain. The enemy, however, are without carriages; and by their track, (for the Indians did not see more than a party of about 100) pursued them towards Ray’s-Town. This they would do whether they be coming to either of the above Provinces (without artillery.) It is the way they have used altogether of late, in coming to, and returning from us.
I return You my thanks, Sir, for answering my queries; as You took no notice of the arms I asked for, by the Governors Order. I am Sir, Your most obt hble Servt

G:W.

N:B. There was a great misapprehension between Capt. Dagworthy and the Indians that first came in: They deny, to me, having said that there was a body of the enemy with wheel-carriages, on their march to attack Fort Cumberland. These indians were not within 30 miles of Fort du Quesne; but nevertheless heard the discharge of the french artillery, which they conceive, was fired at the departure of a large body of troops from that place. Capt. Dagworthy might easily have misunderstood these people for want of a good interpreter.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 21 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

To Governor DinwiddieHonble Sir,
[Fort Loudoun] June 21st 1757

I this day received the enclosed from Capt. Dagworthy: The Indians mentioned therein are likewise got here with their scalps: and altho’ I believe from several circumstances that the Enemy are bringing down no Artillery—Yet, as they all agree that a formidable body of french and indians is certainly on their march down; and as it is impossible to know what province they will make an eruption into. I did not think it proper to countermand the march of the Militia, which I am informed are ordered hither from Culpeper and Fairfax consisting of one hundred from each county: As I conceive the great expence of these Militia, until we can learn the enemys destination, for a short time, is trifling compared with the risque of having this part of the country laid waste, shou’d the enemy march this way when we were unprepared for their reception.
In consequence of the first intelligence which I received from Fort Cumberland, and the result of the council of war held on that occasion: I gave Major Lewis (who at present commands at the South-Bra[n]ch) orders to give all the country-people warning of the danger with which they were threat’ned; and that he, and the troops under his command, shou’d hold themselves in readiness to retreat hither, in case it shou’d prove expedient; but not to evacuate the Forts on the Branch, until he shou’d have certain accounts of the enemys intentions against that Quarter.
I wrote Colo. Stanwix, to know if he cou’d supply us with arms: and, altho’ I have since heard from him, he does not answer that part of my letter. I send your Honor, enclosed, a copy of the french officers (who is now here) examination. I am your Honors’ &c.

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Slaughter, 21 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Slaughter, Robert

To Colo. Robert Slaughter in Culpeper County.Sir,
Fort-Loudoun, June 21st 1757.

I received yours of the 20th instant; and am glad of the judicious, regular step which you have taken—and judge it necessary you shou’d lose no time in marching the Detachmt up here; as we have received no intelligence which contradicts that formerly received a few days ago. A man arrived here from Fort-Cumberland who left that Garrison on the 16th instant: at which time there were great numbers of the enemy’s indians around that place, who frequently appeared openly to the Garrison. This is probably a party detached from the main Body, and sent out before it, to reconnoitre. I keep Major Lewis 50 miles advanced from this place, with Orders to use all possible means of procuring Intelligence. I am &c.

G:W.


Title: To George Washington from John Robinson, 21 June 1757
From: Robinson, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
[June] 21. 1757

It gave me great Concern that Capt. Gist went back without carrying a Letter from me in Answer to your several Favours, which he should not have done had I known any thing of his going, but I never had the Pleasure of seeing him after he delivered your Letter, in Compliance to your request in his behalf, I spoke to the Managers for carrying on the Trade with the Indians the only thing that was in Power to serve him in, and they seemed very inclinable to employ him in that Service, but what

was the result, or whether that Business was suitable to him I cant tell, as I never saw him after; As there are three Companies of Rangers to be raised, I should think he would be the properest Person they could fix upon to command one of them tho’ I can’t tell when they will be raised as the Govr seems determined not to raise any of them, till the Regiment is compleated and, whether that will be done by the Method directed by our Act, I cant pretend to say, tho’ I am afraid not, The Act so far as relates to the raising of the Men you have in the news Paper otherwise would have sent you a Copy of it, The Mutiny Bill that we have passed is copied from the Act of Parliament, and the same Punishments for the Same Crimes inflicted[,] the Court Martial to consist of the same Number and to be held in the same Manner as directed by our former Act, the Title of it is “An Act to prevent Mutiny & Desertion.[”]
I have now Sent by Mr Boyd Ten Thousand Pounds, Six Thousand of it for the Arrears due to the Officers & Soldiers and four Thousand for the Arrears due for provisions &ca. The Govr by his Warrants directed the Money to be paid to Mr Boyd, but I told him he must at least deliver that for the Provisions to you, and you was engaged to see most of them paid, and tho’ I could not at this time get a Committee to know their Sentimts upon it, I make not the least doubt but they will allow you for your trouble and risque in ⟨receiv⟩ing and paying it away.
Mr Atkins wrote it seems very pressingly to the Govr to send up Money to pay the Indians for Scalps, and the Govr accordingly issued his Warrant to me to pay £240 for that Purpose, which I have paid tho’ not justified for it by the Act of Assembly, for the Act directs that only Ten Pounds for every Scalp should be paid by me, and the remaining thirty to be paid at the next Assembly, and the Govr by the Act is desired to buy goods for the Indians to the amount of that sum of any Person that shall be willing to let them have them, and to Stay till the Assembly meets to be paid for them, but as I was afraid the Indians, if they did [not] receive the whole, might be disobliged, and I could tell of what fatal consequence the disobliging them at this crucial juncture might prove, I ⟨illegible⟩ send the whole money and run the Hazard of the Assembly[’s] Approbation. From the Accounts received by your Express we have but a

Gloomy Prospect of our Affairs, and after lulling ourselves asleep in our Security and even flattering ourselves with being able with the small force we could raise, to take Fort Duquesne, to be in danger of having our Country overrun by a force from that very Place must be a melancholy consideration to every one that is affected with the distresses and Miseries of his fellow Creatures, who if the Accts of the Indians be true, tho’ I cant help flattering myself they are exaggerated, must be in the most deplorable ⟨mutilated⟩ when it is considered what a small force we have on foot to oppose them, it would be the highest vanity & Presumption to flatter ourselves with being able to defend ourselves or preserve our miserable Inhabitants on the Frontiers from destruction, the Militia it seems of Six Counties are ordered out for their protection but I must confess I have no great dependance upon them, but should I be mistaken in them, there can be little hope of their getting together time enough to prevent the mischeif, and the only Expectation we can have from them is, they may prevent the Enemy penetrating far into our Country, which if their number is so great as the Indians represent we have too much reason to apprehend, and I am afraid Col. Stanix and the Forces of our neighbouring Colonies wont use much more dispatch in coming to our Assistance, and then we have only the divine Assistance to rely on, for tho’ I am assured that every thing will be done for our Security and defence that can be with so small a force, yet what can be expected from one Man against an hundred, however We must not despond but put our Trust in him that is only able to save and protect. That he may guard you in the day of Battle and danger is the sincere prayer of Dear Sir Your Affecte Freind and Servant

John Robinson


Title: To George Washington from John Stanwix, 22 June 1757
From: Stanwix, John
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Camp near Carlisle [Pa.] 22d June 1757

had I Not had a letter last night from Capt. Dagworthy Fort Cumberlands being safe and the Intelligence of Artillery, Waggons &c. &c. &c. being a Mistake, should have march’d this morning every thing being ready, but was stopd some days for want of Carriages, and it will be always the Case here in this deserted Country as I shall ever be obliged to Carry my Provisions tent Ammn &c. so that at least forty Waggons will be necessary, which at soonest will require eight or ten days to Collect.
Capt. Beall writes as follows “as the Virginia Militia will be in motion for the Defence of his Majestys Fort & Stores at Winchester perhaps Col. Washington could spare some men to reinforce Fort Cumberland till we see the Event of this invassion”—This I send you only as hint but at this distance can give you no order, but must leave it to you to do an act the best you can for the publick service.
I have intelligence from Col: Wesser that the French Indians are Clearing a Road within ten Miles of Shamokin near Fort Augusta & are morally sure by Indian intelligence that of that Fortress being Attack’d by which we may learn the French are busy every where, which they will continue to be ’till Lord Loudoun begins the Execution of his great plan of Opperation, on the Success of which the very being of this Country and that of England depends, God send him that success which I think his

great attention to the publick service & his great knowledge in Military affairs deserve believe me Dr Sir your most obedient humble Serv.

John Stanwix

Got all the Ammunition you sent by my Waggons from Lancaster; & on taking an acct of the number of Barrells of Powder they amount’d to one hundred and One.


Title: To George Washington from John Stanwix, 22 June 1757
From: Stanwix, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
Camp near Carlisle [Pa.] June 22d 1757 two o’Clock

I wrote you a letter this morning about 6 O’Clock since which I have the Favour of your’s of the 20th with the Examination of the French Officer your Prisoner for which I [am] extreemly obliged to you, shall only add to what I say’d in the morning that I highly approve of The Council of War you held and think your Fort Loudoun the properest place to make a Stand for which reason it was there I intend’d to joyn you with six hundd men, had Fort Cumberland been taken which by the notion I have of the place is in no ⟨sort⟩ tenable against such an attack as we were made to believe was in agitation against it, I confess my self a very great stranger to Indian affairs yet can not help thinking but that these Cherkees are well worth encouragmt. I am made to believe that Fort Augusta is to be attack’d but shoud think those works in some forwardness, must leave to a little time to discover to us what the Enemy realy intend to do, this province will maintain a French Army well, but where they can have Armys for all places I can’t divine, beg you

will believe that I am with great truth Dr Sir Your most obedient humble Servt

John Stanwix


Title: To George Washington from David Ross, 23 June 1757 [letter not found]
From: Ross, David
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from David Ross, 23 June 1757. On 25 June 1757 GW wrote to Ross: “I was this day favoured with yours of the 23d instant.”


Title: From George Washington to Nicholas Minor, 24 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Minor, Nicholas

[Fort Loudoun, 24 June 1757]

To Captn Nicholas Minor, of the Fairfax Militia. By George Washington Esqre Colonel of the Virginia Regiment, and commander of all the Virginia forces.
You are with the company of Mil[iti]a under your command, to march with all convenient expedition from hence to Patterson’s Fort: From whence you are to send out parties for the protection of that neighbourhood[.] You are to maintain a proper command—to place sentries at proper places by day and by night, when in Garrison; and to be very circumspect in your marches, and counter-marches, by keeping some alert woodsmen advanced a small distance before, and on your flanks. This, every party, however small, is constantly to observe—In short; you are to use every precaution, to prevent surprizes, which generally prove fatal: and, as the principal intention of your being ordered thither, is to protect the Inhabitants—You are to spare no pains or trouble to accomplish that desirable end. You are to use all possible means of procuring what intelligence you can of the enemys numbers, motions, and intentions; and give me due information of all material occurencies.
You are to send me an exact return of all the ammunition and Stores you find at that place; of which (with what you carry with you) you are to be particularly careful. And give your Officers and men plainly to understand, that they will be answerable for what they may lose, waste or spoil[.] The provisions are to be weigh’d and regularly served; vizt a pound of flour and a pound of meat for each man, per day. Shou’d you find that the inhabitants in the neighbourhoods of Mendenhall and Neally’s

Forts, will not remain there without some additional protection to their own; you are to send a few men to each of these places, under the command of a Sergeant or Corporal, and to relieve them every week. Given at Fort Loudoun this 24th day of June, 1757.


Title: From George Washington to John Stanwix, 24 June 1757 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Stanwix, John

Letter not found: to John Stanwix, 24 June 1757. On 11 July 1757 Stanwix wrote to GW: “had I had any Opportunity of returning an Answer to the Favour of yours of the 24th of June. . . .”


Title: Memoranda, 25 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun] 25th [June 1757]

The Govr.
Inclose the Govr Doctr Ross Letter abt the Provision at Fort Cumbd & desire his explicit directions how to act in the Affair.

Inform him in what manner the Militia came to this place—witht Arms &ca.
That it is impossible so heavy a piece of Work as Fort Loudoun can be ⟨illegible⟩.
Govr
Whether I am right in delivering our ammunition &ca to the Militia.
I ought to be furnishd with money to pay the Drafts when they come up.
I have not been able to send any Men to the So. Ward, the Continual Alarms on this Quarter retarded it till the News of the French Marchg with artillery and then it was judgd quite imprudent to draw Men from a part so much exposd.
I have wrote twice to Colo. Stanwix abt Arms, but he takes no Notice there⟨of⟩ in his Letters to me from whence I imagine he is not inclind to furnish us with any—We shall want Arms much.


Title: From George Washington to Orange County Lieutenant, Henry Fitzhugh, and John Spotswood, 25 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Orange County Lieutenant,Spotswood, John,Fitzhugh, Henry

   [Fort Loudoun, 25 June 1757]

   Copy of Letters to the County Lts of Orange, Stafford and Spotsylvania-counties.
   Gentlemen,
As the Governor informs me, that in consequence of the intelligence we received of the Enemys motions, he had ordered up a third of the Militia of several counties, amongst which yours are included. I send this to acquaint you, that I have received a subsequent account, by which it appears, that they bring no train of artillery, and that they have taken the Ray’s-town-road; which make it probable they will bend their chief force against Pennsylvania[.] This I have acquainted the Governor; and I imagine he will countermand the order for marching the Militia, as they may not immediately be wanted. I am &c.

G:W.
Fort Loudoun June 25th 1757.


Title: From George Washington to David Ross, 25 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Ross, David

To Doctor RossSir,
[Fort Loudoun, 25 June 1757]

I was this day favoured with yours of the 23d instant.
I think your proposals relative to the provisions at Fort Cumberland quite equitable. But as the management of them properly belongs to Mr Walker; I do not choose to interfere in the business without Governor Dinwiddie’s instructions. I have therefore enclosed your letter to His Honor, that he may be the better able to give explicit directions concerning the matter; and will inform you of his resolutions on the head, so soon as his answer returns to my hand. But, in the mean time, I hope care will be taken of those provisions, and an exact account taken of what is used; as it is evident some must be used, the people having no other to live on—It wou’d be obliging were you to direct fresh pickle to be put to the meat, or any other means whereby to preserve it; for which you wou’d be properly compensated. I am &c.

G:W.
Fort Loudoun—June 25th 1757.


Title: From George Washington to William Fairfax, 25 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Fairfax, William

To Colo. FairfaxDr Sir,
[Fort Loudoun] June 25th 1757.

Your favors of the 17th & 19th instant I have received. Captains Fairfax & Minor arrived here with their companies on tuesday last. The latter I have sent to Pattersons and Mendenhalls; small forts lying under the North-mountain and much exposed to the incursions of the Enemy.
The storm which threatned us with such formidable appearances is, in a manner, blown over. It arose in a great measure from a misunderstanding (in Captn Dagworthy) of the Indians, for want of a proper interpreter. The indians are nevertheless, unanimous in asserting that a large Body of French and Indians have marched from Fort Du Quesne; but without artillery; and that they pursued the Ray’s-town-road which leads very conveniently, to the three Colonies of Virginia, maryland and Pennsylvania.
I have for this reason, and because the enemy have already committed several depredations in this, as well as the neighbouring Colonies, since Sunday last, thought it expedient to detain what Militia have already arrived, a few days longer.
I do not think we have any occasion for more: and judge it necessary to apprize you thereof, knowing the Governor has ordered one-third of the Militia to repair to this place, that you may act as you shall see meet on this occasion, or ’till you may hear further from the Governor, to whom I wrote (on Tuesday last) an account of our subsequent intelligence.
Our Soldiers labour on the public works with great spirit and constancy, from monday morning ’till sunday night, notwithstanding there is a month’s pay due to them. We have no other assistance.
I have been exceedingly hurried of late, and still am so; which prevents my being explicit on the occurencies that have

happened on this Quarter. Poor Spotswood, and a party that went towards du Quesne, with some cherokee indians are, I fear, lost! Lt Baker from the said place has brought 5 scalps, and a french officer, prisoner, after killing two others.
Kieruptica, a cherokee chief, is just come in with two scalps; which, according to his own account, he took within musket-shot of fort du Quesne. He is now permitted, by Mr Atkins, to go to Pennsylvania with Captn Croghan.
Outossita came to town last night with 27 cherokee indians from his nation. and by him we learn, that a large party may soon be expected.
These, I think, are the most material occurrencies.
I have been obliged to furnish your Militia with provisions and ammunition, but with a good deal of reluctance; as I was blamed for the like proceedings last year.
I offer my compliments in the most affectionate manner, to the family at Belvoir. Yours,

G:W.


Title: To George Washington from William Fairfax, 26 June 1757
From: Fairfax, William
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Belvoir 26. June 1757.

I have receiv’d yr Favour by Danl Jenings, and am pleasd that the Enemy have not made any nearer Approaches with a considerable Body, so as to require a further Reinforcement of our Militia, especially as the Detachment sent You proves difficult for your Supplying Them wth the necessary Provisions &c. which We could not procure & accomadate them With at the Several Distances they were drafted from, and surely as our Detachment is on the Country’s Service, they are to be victualled as such, And it would be an extraordinary Charge for each County to Send a Commissary, therefore Suppose the Account for victualling will be readily allowd You—As to the skulking Party that has infested the Neighbourhood about Maidstone, they may be thought as heretofore to be but a few and Such as Capt. Gist if He had been continued in Command Woud probably very soon have disperst. If the Govrs Orders should come to march one third of our Militia, as You now don’t want that Number I can easily answer; But other Countys not knowing that You don’t at present want more may send You a Number disagreeable as They will all want Provisions &c. I am glad Lt Baker had good Success, and yet hope Captn Spotswood & his Compa. may be forc’t to hide Themselves for some Days & happily return—Œtasita &c. will be a great Scourge to the prouling Enemy. You will please to order the Captains Minor & Fairfax to keep exact Muster Rolls For my examining and passing to entitle Them for Payment &c. I expected a Letter from Bryan &c. The Family here salute You in the kindest Manner and wish You every Felicity which I Witness as Dear Sr, Yr very affecte & assurd Friend & Servt

W: Fairfax


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 27 June 1757
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Williamsburg June 27th 1757

I recd Yrs of the 21st ⅌ Jenkins—& am glad the first Intelligence of the French & Indians formidable March with Artillery, Waggons &ca proves false; that they will continue to send scouting Parties to harrass these Colonies, I always expected, & probably they may now increase their Numbers to make a strong Push; but still as it’s Indian News, who cannot count Numbers, I wou’d gladly hope they are not so formidable as represented; however I think it prudent that You keep of Frederick, Fairfax & Prince Wm one hundred of each till the Draught arrive at Winchester, I suppose many of them are now at Fredericksburg where I hope You have sent Officers to receive them.
The French Officer’s Information, who is Prisoner with You, may partly be true in regard to the Strength at Fort Du Quesne; but I cannot think they will send any Forces from Montreal, as it’s natural to think they will keep all the Forces they can to the No[rth]ward to oppose Ld Loudouns Operations; or can any Number of Cherokees or Creeks come to their Assistance; all the Cherokees have declar’d for us, & taken up the Hatchet, except the Town of Tellico, in the Upper Cherokee Country; & from So. Carolina it’s reported the Creeks declare themselves our Friends.
The Indians who harrass our Frontiers are partly some of

those that formerly did so, as the 48 Indians that parted with them the Day before they were attack’d, as reported were Shawnesse; & no doubt they have many of the Western Indians. I hope the Acct of their Cannon is true.
Or can I believe the arrival of 3000 Soldiers at Montreal, we shou’d have had an Acct from Home if any such Embarkation was made. I approve of Your Orders to Majr Lewis, & I hope You will not have occasion to evacuate those Forts; tho’ on the first Intelligence sent here of the Designs of the French, with Artillery &ca the Council advis’d the evacuating those Forts to reinforce Fort Loudoun.
You wrote to Co. Stanwix which Letter he answer’d, but did not that Part relating to the Small Arms; I think You shou’d have communicated to me the Contents of that Letter, for I do not know where he & his Forces are.
I have Reason to think most of the Draughts will be at Frederickburg this Week, & I doubt not You have sent Officers to receive them; & as I order’d the Militia of several other Counties to Your Assistance, You are to order them to return Home, excepting those three Counties above.
No News from Britain, & I am quite in the Dark as to Ld Loudoun’s Motions, not having any Letter these two Months. The Treasurer this Day sends to Fredericksburg Money to pay the Volunteers & Draughts their enlisting Money, who are to be incorporated with the Regiment. I much want to know Co. Stanwix’s Opinion & his Disposition of the Troops on this late Information of the Enemy’s Motions. My Respects to Mr Atkin, I cannot write him now, & I remain Sir Your most humble Servant

Robt Dinwiddie


Title: Memoranda, 28 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun] 28th [June 1757]
Colo. Stanwix

Whether Officers who are sent express, or upon any other Duty, where Horses are indispensably necessary are obligd to furnish them, or have them provided at the Expence of the Publick.
28 Mr Fielg Lewis
Write to him for a looking Glass.
28th The Govr
The Contractors should have Instructions to engage Provisions before the Season advances too far—there are I am told, Persons employd in Augusta already to purchase fat Cattle for the Army to the Northward.
It is necessary I should have accordg to promise a fund of money lodgd in my hand to answer Contingent Expences. Company’s.
So soon as the Company’s are formd agreeable to the New Regulation an exact size & necessary Roll is to be given into me of each Company.
An exact Monthly return is to be Given in specifying all occurances wch have happend in the Company’s & time when &ca.
Any Commanding Officer of a Comy failing in this Point shall be put under Arrest & tryed for disobedience of Orders.


Title: To George Washington from Henry Lee, 28 June 1757 [letter not found]
From: Lee, Henry
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Henry Lee, 28 June 1757. On 30 June 1757 GW wrote to Lee: “I have received yours of the 28th instant.”


Title: Memoranda, 29 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[Fort Loudoun] 29th [June 1757]

Detach’d Posts
To use every endeavour to learn their Men to shoot well & be good Marksmen.
Draughts 29th
Choose out of them a number that have been well usd, & practisd in shooting let them be likely Men.
Majr Lewis
desire him and the Officers to encourage and treat the drafts kindly that they may not at first imbibe any prejudices &ca to the Service.
Regiment
Each Company in it is to have the Men’s names & No. of the Company markd upon all their Ammunition Cloaths & Accoutrements.
Mr Kirkpatrick
Ask him if the Committee did not agre to pay half Ferriages for all Soldiers who shoud cross at any.
Majr Lewis

Keep exact Copys of all the receipts he gives for Drafts & to receive no old ones.
Waggener
Look at Woodwards Letters especially those of the 28th June to inform his Instructns.
Govr
I have told many People who have accts against Indians—that your Honr observd they shoud be paid when proper Vouchers were producd—they want to know by whom they are to be paid & complain Grieviously if they are obligd to go all the way to Wmsburg with every acct this wd run away with the whole profit of some & be a means of preventing any Person for the future advancing any necessarys for them upon the most urgent occasion—If I may presume to advise it shoud be that some Person here shou’d take in & adjust all accts that might be brot & when he had done this he might then wait upon yr Honr with the proper Vouchers.
Lieutt Eustice has resignd.
That 12 Drafts came to this place from Prince Wm and immediately after receivg Cloath’s &ca 4 of them Deserted.
Hog. als. Flemming
Send him the amt of his acct 33.13.10.
Robt Johnston.
Send his money for a Gun by Mr Boyd 4.7.6.
Hog als. Bullet
Send his acct—2.12.
Govr

                  Write to him abt the money
                     Captn Mercer advanc’d for Skins &ca viz. two Rects one of 24.12.9. the
                     other 6.12.6 & hold the rects he promisd to give a Warr[an]t on the
                     Speaker when I was down for it but their was no money in the Treasury.
                  }
                  31:5:3


Title: To George Washington from John Robinson, 29 June 1757
From: Robinson, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
J⟨une⟩ 29. 1757

I wrote you last by Mr Boyd by whom I sent Ten thousand Pounds, Six thousand for the Arrears due to the Regimt and Four thousand for Provisions &ca and Two days ago I received an Order from the Govr to send up to the Officers, appointed to receive the drafted and enlisted men, Two Thousand Pounds to pay the Men the Reward given them by the Act; and I have embraced the Opportunity by the Capt. that goes with our drafted men to Fredericksburgh to send the Money to be delivered to one of the Officers there appointed to receive the Men, to be by him delivered to You, I have paid Eleven of our Men who enlisted voluntary, a List of whose names I have sent to be given to the Officer that they mayn’t demand again, and there are only five that are drafted and who are to receive their Reward from You, I flatter myself the Conduct of our County in this Affair will meet with Approbation, as we have sent our full Compliment, and most of them likely young fellows I wish every other County may do as well, whereby you may be enabled to make some defence against our numerous and vigilant Enemy, of whose Motion⟨s⟩ and destination we are impatient to hear ⟨and⟩ of Fate of poor Spotswood, who is

much lamented among us. In your last letter you hinted something of Capt. Mercers being indebted to the Country but as you did not speak out or let me know on what Acct it is I cant tell how to Act, the Committee has settled his Accts and there is due to him about 160. Which I shall retain in my hands till I hear further from you—I sincerely wish you all the happiness you can desire for I am with the greatest Truth Dear Sir Your Affecte Freind

John Robinson


Title: From George Washington to Henry Lee, 30 June 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Lee, Henry

[Fort Loudoun, 30 June 1757]
To Colo. Lee. County-Lt Of Prince-WilliamSir,

I have received yours of the 28th instant; in consequence whereof I have discharged John Wood (who has employed Doctr Bowles to serve in his room.) I have, also, finding it inconsistent with the interest of the service, discharged John High Werden, who, thro’ age and consequent infirmity, is altogether unfit to undergo the fatigues of a Soldier.
As the number of draughts I have received from your County, is far short of the complement you are to furnish; I recommend it to you (and at the same time flatter myself you will conform thereto,) to use the most speedy and effectual means of sending your quota; for we stand greatly in need of them. I am, Sir, Your most obedt St

G:W.
Fort Loudoun, June 30th 1757.


Title: Memorandum, 30 June–1 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To:

[30 June–1 July 1757]

The names of the Sergts employed upon the public works.

Reuben Vass
James Littlepage
Wm Hughes
Saml Robinson
Richd Good
Charles Scott
Francis Moreland
Charles Calux
James Hill and James White.

The names of those who are not employed.

Thomas Ferguson
James Young
Josep. Bledsoe
Jams Carson
Henry Carren
John Gender
Andrw Vaugn
Thomas Jones


Title: To George Washington from William Fairfax, 1 July 1757
From: Fairfax, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sr
Alexandria 1st July 1757.

I am glad You had no repeated Advices of the approaching Enemy wch has admitted the Discharge of Captain Fx and Company of ill disciplin’d Militia and generally composd of malevolent Persons. A Proof of our inconsiderate Medley is given in our not been able to send more than nine Persons from this County to add to yr Regiment. I referr to Colo. Carlyle’s giving You an Accot how our odly mixt Court had it’s Interruptions and Some Delinquents escapd; And I much doubt whether the

County’s below will have better Success—If Money had been placed in every County a more likely Chance to enlist Men. Every one that has Seen Fort Loudoun speak well of it’s Structure, Situation & Commander. I wish it was in my Power to give the Workmen a Suitable Encouragement. Your Care no doubt is to compleat your Walls, Ramparts & Parapets, to mount your Guns, Secure yr Gates and come at Water against any sudden Approach of an Enemy. Another Set of Workmen if You have them, can finish Yr, the Officers Lodging & Barracks. I suppose You do Not much converse with Mr Atkin as You are silent about Him. The disbanding our Troops of Horse Militia has put the Officers under Suspence It can’t be intended the late Horses Officers shall be placd in the common Rank and how to be posted is not exprest. Other Inconsistences might be mentiond, but suppose You have observd them. That We have not yet heard of the expected Shipping & Transports from England & Cork’s Arrival is a Matter of Wonder & Concern. No doubt Ld Loudoun has many Uneasinesses on their Delay. Genl Webb, Colo. Stanwix &c. lamenting their Inaction unless the March of the Enemy in Pensylvania cause some of their Troops to watch & interrupt their Motions—As Œtasati is a noted Warrior, perhaps He will undertake some notable Exploit to revenge Capt. Spotswood if Fallen. For Pticulars referr to Colo. Carlyle.
The Family here together offer their affect. Complts and Wishes that all your Desires may be fully answer’d which I attest and confirm as Dear Sr Yr very affecte Friend and obedient hle Servt

W: Fairfax


Title: From George Washington to Henry Fitzhugh, 2 July 1757
From: Washington, George
To: Fitzhugh, Henry

[Fort Loudoun, 2 July 1757]
To Colo. Henry Fitzhugh of StaffordSir,

Nine Draughts from your county were brought to this place by Captn Conway; six of whom I have given receipts for, the other three are discharged as unfit for Service—Capt. Conway lost two others by desertion, as he was bringing them up: and as this will be the case with all the Draughts, we shall fall greatly short of our complement, unless the commanding Officer in each county respectively will exert himself in apprehending those which come under the letter of the Law, to supply their places.
I hope, Sir, it is needless to urge the necessity of this obvious measure, to you. I shall only say, that we stand greatly in need of men, to supersede the necessity of sending out your Militia upon every alarm, as is now the case; as well as to render that assistance to the poor distressed Settlers on the Frontiers, which they have a right to expect and which it is absolutely necessary to afford them. I am Sir, Yrs &c.

G:W.
July 2d 1757.