Title: From George Washington to George Clinton, 15 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, George

Dear Sir
Head Quarters Philada County 15th October 1777

I was this day honored with yours of the 9th containing a full account of the Storm of Forts Montgomery and Clinton. Genl Putnam had given me information of the loss two days before, but not in so full and ample a manner. It is to be regretted that so brave a resistance did not meet with a suitable reward. You have however the satisfaction of knowing that every thing was done that could possibly be, by a handful against a far superior force. This I am Convinced was the case. This Affair might have been attended with fatal consequences, had not there been a most providential intervention in favor of Genl Gates’s Arms on the 7th instant, but I am fully of opinion that Sr Henry Clinton will not advance much further up the River upon hearing of Burgoine’s

Defeat and Retreat. Nothing but absolute necessity could have induced me to have withdrawn any further part of the troops allotted for the defence of the posts up the North River, but such was the reduced state of our continental Regiments after the Battle of Brandywine, and such the slouth and difficulty of procuring reinforcements of Militia from the Southward, that without the Troops from Peekskill we should scarcely have been able to have kept the Feild against General Howe. I had the greatest hopes that General Putnam would have drawn in as many Connecticut Militia as would have replaced the Continental Troops, and I make no doubt but he did all in his Power to obtain them in time. I am sorry that you were under the necessity of destroying the Frigates, the only consolation is, that if we had not done it ourselves the Enemy would either have done it for us or have carried them down for their own use—Since the Battle of Germantown upon the 4th instant the two Armies have remained in a manner quiet. The Enemy have made several attempts to remove the obstructions in the Delaware, but hitherto without effect. They are now making preparations to raise Batteries in the Rear of Fort Mifflin which commands the uppermost Chevaux de Frize. If we can maintain that post and one opposite upon the Jersey Shore, I am in hopes our Ships, Gallies and floating Batteries will be able to keep their Stations and repel any force that can be brought by water directly in front—I most earnestly expect further News from the Northward, which I hope will bring us accounts of the total ruin of Burgoine’s Army.
It is not unlikely, that One of Sr Henry Clintons objects will be to destroy the Boats & small craft in the North River. Should this be the case & he succeed I think it will be adviseable for you to set a number of Workmen to building Flat Bottom Boats at some secure places within three or four Miles of the Water, from which they may be easily hauled. They are so exceedingly useful and so frequently wanted, that I think the business cannot in such case be too soon begun or carried on with too much expedition. I have written to Genl putnam upon the same Subject. I am Dr Sir &c.

Go: W.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Christopher Greene, 15 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Christopher

Head Quarters [Towamencin Township, Pa.] 11 O’Clock at night, October 15, 1777.

Sir: I am persuaded by intelligence from different quarters, that the enemy are determined to endeavour by a speedy and vigorous effort to carry Fort Mifflin, and for this purpose are preparing a considerable force. Their attempt will probably be sudden and violent, as they are hardly in a situation to delay a matter so essential to them as that of removing the River obstructions. It is of infinite importance to disappoint their intentions in this instance, as their keeping or evacuating Philadelphia materially depends upon their having the communication with their shipping immediately open, and it is not unlikely they may dispair of effecting it, if they should fail in the push, I imagine they are now about to make. Col. Smith’s present force is not as great as could be wished and requires to be augmented, to put him in a condition to make an effectual opposition. I would therefore have you to detach immediately as large a part of your force as you possibly can in aid of his garrison. I cannot well determine what proportion: This must be regulated by circumstances and appearances but my present idea is that the principal part should go to his assistance. To enable you the better to spare a respectable reinforcement, I have directed General

Newcomb to send his brigade of militia to Red-bank, or as many of them as he can prevail upon to go. Colonel Angell will also march early to-morrow morning to join you, with his regiment. The Garrisons and fleet may be informed of these succours by way of keeping up their spirits.
I would not have you trust to the houses in the neighborhood of your post, as these in case of an investiture will fail you; which makes it prudent to have a sufficient number of huts before hand prepared within the fort.
I hope, and doubt not, you will keep fully in mind the prodigious importance of not suffering the enemy to get entire possession of the Delaware, and will spare no pains, nor activity to frustrate their efforts for that purpose. Be watchful on every quarter, and industrious in stopping every avenue by which you are assailable. Be cautious not to pay too much attention to anyone part of your works, and neglect the others; but take every precaution to strengthen the whole; for otherwise the greatest danger may be where you least expect it. I am etc.


Title: To George Washington from Commodore John Hazelwood, 15 October 1777
From: Hazelwood, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Of[f] Fort Island [Pa.] October 15. 1777

I received your Excellencys just now. The Enimy have now opened three Batteries on us One from the Mouth of Schuylkill, One just before the Hospital and another opposite Fort Mifflin. That opposite the Fort has thrown several shells but has done no damage as yet. I have apply’d to Colonel Green who is willing to grant me some Men, but must return them as soon as any attack is done. The different attacks that has been made on the Enimies Shipping and their Batteries has reduc’d the Amunition very much. The Navy Board sent off Mr Manuel Eyres sometime ago for some but have not yet received it. The Day before Yesterday Mr James Wharton went off from Fort Mifflin to hurry down some more, and Yesterday Mr Albertson was dispatch’d after them to quicken their motions. The Enimies Ships still lay near Billingsport and I believe will not be able to get thro the Chevaux de Frize. We are now sending down two pieces of Artillery by Land to Billingsport to try to anoy their Ships from that place. I am your Excellencys most Obt Hble Servt

John Hazelwood


Title: To George Washington from Captain Henry Lee, Jr., 15 October 1777
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Octr ⟨15⟩ [1777] Wednesdy P.M. ½ 6 Oclock

A deserter from the 15th regt just from the enemy’s camp, informs, that the 4th brigade, two regts from the 2d, & one Hessian regt receved marching orders at one Oclock Sunday. Where they are destined is not known. He can form no conjecture. He confirms the account of Col. Birds death, & says that the 15th lost fifty three privates & seven officers in the last action—They are now about two hundred effective. He has never heard the least suggestion of an attack on our army. With most profound respect your Excelly Obt H. Servt

Heny Lee, Jr


Title: Instructions to James Mease, 15 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Mease, James

Sir
[15 October 1777]

In order to enable you to carry on the business of your department with facility & despatch—You are hereby authorized to purchase hire or press as circumstances may require from time to time—such number of horses and waggons as you shall stand in need of to answer the necessary purposes thereof—And in Consideration of the wants of the Army in many essential Articles of Cloathing, and the backwardness which has in some instances appeared in persons who have them for sale, to part with them to the publick on reasonable terms proceeding from Motives of disaffection and avarice—You are also empowered to seize such Articles as you know to be absolutely necessary to us, wherever you find them in private hands; paying a generous price for the same—At the same time that you will use this power in a manner answerable to our necessities; you will be carefull to exercise it with all the discretion, which a power so delicate and important demands, remembering that an improper use of it may not only render it odious, but may defeat the advantages it is intended to produce. Given at Head Quarters Octobr 15th 1777.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters or the Board of War, 15 October 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Peters, Richard,Board of War

Letter not found: to Richard Peters or the Board of War, 15 Oct. 1777. GW’s aide-de-camp Tench Tilghman docketed Peters’s letter to GW of 7 Oct. in part: “Ansd 15th.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Potter, 15 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Potter, James

Sir
Head quarters 15th Octobr 1777 8 ’OClock P.M.

I have just received Advice from Captain Lee of light Dragoons that 7 Regiments of the Enemy’s Force receiv’d Marching orders at One OClock P.M. this day, this information he had from a Deserter of the 15th who came out this Afternoon; what the destination or Route was he could give no Account of. I thought it necessary to give you this intelligence by express, as there is a probability that this may be

intended as an Escort towards Chester or possibly to surprize your party, in either of which cases you should be prepared for them. The Enemy’s communication with Chester is kept up by way of the lower ferry & Provence Island. I am Sir your mo. Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 15 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dear Sir
Head Quarters [Pa.] 15th October 1777

I am favd with yours of the 8th and 10th instants giving me the account of the loss of Fort Montgomery and the evacuation of Peekskill in consequence of it, but I am very glad to find that you had previously removed the greater part of the Stores. This Stroke would have perhaps proved fatal to our Northern Affairs in its consequences, had not the defeat of Genl Burgoine providentially taken place upon the 7th instant. I can scarcely think that Sr Henry Clinton will pursue his Rout now the object of it is disappointed, I mean a junction with Burgoine. But I hope if he should attempt to penetrate further, you will be able, with the Militia from Connecticut and New York and the reinforcement sent down by Genl Gates, to stop his progress.
Genl Mcdougal has just suggested a matter which he thinks of importance. He imagines that the Enemy, supposing they are obliged to fall down the North River again, will destroy all the Boats they find, or carry them down with them, in either case we shall have no means of crossing. He therefore advises that the Boat Builders in the peekskill department be immediately set to work to make a number of Boats, which may be built some distance back from the Water and brought down upon Carriages when wanted; but if the Enemy go down again they may be built convenient to the Water. If our Boats are destroyed the sooner this work is set about the better. Since the Battle of Germantown both Armies have remained quiet. The Enemy have been endeavouring to remove the obstructions in the Delaware, but they have not yet made much progress. I am Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 16 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, at Peter Wentzes, Worcester Township [Pa.] October 16th 1777.
Carlisle.Lancaster. York.

The Commander in Chief positively orders, that the horse encamp compactly, in the rear of the army, and as near as possible to Head Quarters.
The regiments are to continue to draw materials for cartridges, and go on making them every day with care and dispatch, and when made, they are to be returned to the Commissary of military stores.
The Court of enquiry of which Major General Lord stirling was president, held the 12th instant, to examine into the conduct of Major General Sullivan, in the expedition commanded by him to Staten-Island in the month of August last, report their opinion thereon as follows—viz.
“The Court after hearing the evidence against the conduct of Major General Sullivan, and those produced by him in his defence, and duly considering the same, are unanimously of opinion, that the expedition against the enemy on Staten-Island was eligible, and promised great advantage to the cause of America—That the expedition was well concerted, and the orders for the execution proper, and would have succeeded with reputation to the General, and the troops under his command, had it not in some measure been rendered abortive by accidents, which were out of the power of the General to foresee or prevent—That General Sullivan was particularly active in embarking the troops to the Island, and took every precaution in his power, to bring them off—That he made early provision at Elizabeth-town for refreshing the troops of his division, when they returned to Jersey; And that upon the maturest consideration of the evidence in possession of this court, General Sullivan’s conduct, in planning and executing the expedition, was such in the opinion of this court, that he deserves the approbation of his country, and not it’s censure—The Court therefore are unanimously of opinion that he ought to stand honorably acquitted of any unsoldierlike conduct, in the expedition to Staten-Island.”
After Orders. The regiments commanded by Colonels Greene—Angel—Durkee and Chandler, are to form one brigade under the command of Brigadier Genl Varnum—The regiments commanded by Col. Prentice, Bradley and Swift are to form one brigade, under the

command of Brigadier Genl Huntington—These two Brigades form a division, to be commanded by Brigadier General McDougall.


Title: To George Washington from Major Benjamin George Eyre, 16 October 1777
From: Eyre, Benjamin George
To: Washington, George

Bordentown [N.J.] October th 16: 1777 Six in th[e] Evening
Sir

Agreeable to your orders I have Collected the Shallops & flats in Bordentown Creeck; their was not wauter Sufficient for them in watsons Creeck. I have Sent twelve waggon Load of Duck this Evening forward. The two friggates Lies at White hill two mile from this town with Sixteen Carriage Guns Each. as for men to Reinforce the Galley they Cannot be Spar’d from the friggates. their is but one hundred seamen, that is in all the fleet that is here. I apply’d to the Continental navey bord for twenty, but they would not let me have them. Inclosd I send you a letter from the Comodore which I receivd this day. the Shot has Gone on but the pouder has not past this plaise yet. Bisket Shall be Sent immediately. would it not be prudent for Colonel Flowers to forward some more from Allenstown to the Comodore. as fast as the waggons Comes in, they Shall be loaded & sent forward. your Excellencys orders Shall be Strictly obeyd by your Humble Servt

Benjn Eyre


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General David Forman, 16 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

Head Quarters [Worcester Township, Pa.] October 16th 1777 8 OClock P.M.
sir

I have this moment receiv’d your favor of Yesterday, & am very sorry to find that the Number of Militia you mention your being able to collect is so far inferior to what you expected.
It is my earnest request that you immediately collect all the Men you possibly can & send them on as fast as any considerable number can be got together under good Officers to Join this Army, As you will remain to March with the last detachment, I wish you to use all your Influence & Interest with your Legislative Body that they may give you what Assistance they can in the Completion of this necessary Object—You can urge with great Justice, that as long as Genl Howes Army has an existance the Counties adjacent to it will be eternally subject to Depredations, nor can any thing prevent it, but such a Union & Coopperation of the People as will effectually reduce him, to attain which happy end, a better opportunity than the present never presented itself.
Mr Tilghman Informs me that he has given you some Account of our situation & of the Victory our Northern Army has most opportunely gain’d over Genl Burgoyne, which I hope may be improved into a total defeat.
Our Army has this day come to the same Ground from whence we March’d to Attack the Enemy on the Night of the 3d Instant.
Another reason occurs why it is the true Interest of your Legislature to give us every Aid upon the present occasion, which is, that if the Enemy can bring up their shipping & get the City fortified & secur’d for winter Quarters, it will be so much in their power to make constant incursions into your State that you will be either oblig’d to submit to repeated heavy Losses by being between two fires, or keep your Militia on foot throughout the Severity of the Winter. I am Sir your mo. Obedt servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Christopher Greene, 16 October 1777
From: Greene, Christopher
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fort on Red Bank [N.J.] Octr 16th 1777:

Coll Tilghman’s Letter of 14th instant, I received last night, wherein (by Your Excellency’s Command[)] he acquaints me of the agreeable Intelligence received from the Northward.
Pursuant to your Request have communicated the Contents to Coll Smith & Commodore Hazelwood & desired them, to demonstrate our Joy on this glorious Occasion by discharging 13 Cannon from Fort Mifflin and the Navy at noon this day. I have directed the like at this Post.
As the season is fast advancing when Barracks for the Troops will be necessary, and as no Preparations for building any have as yet been made here; Should be glad to know Your Excellency’s Pleasure, whether any should be erected. I am with due Deference Your Excellency’s most Obedt servant

C. Greene


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General James Potter, 16 October 1777
From: Potter, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Octr 16, 1777 near Gulph Mill [Pa.]

From the best information I can receive, there is in Wilmington about 1300 of the enemy—They have put all the wounded & Sick on board of their Ships, and there is some merchant Ship there, they have not unloaded any thing.
I am told the enemy have Stopt some of the Breaches that were made in the banks of Carpenters Island.
My party is so small, & I am Obliged to keep them on such hard duty that they will soon be wore out.

My men killed four of the enemy yesterday, and one Hessian Officer the other day.
I have sent off to your Excellency a number of Cattle the property of Sheriff Vernon & John Roberts Miller, both of them Aiding & assisting the enemy. I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s Most Obedt Hume Servt

Ja’s Potter


Title: General Orders, 17 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, at Peter Wentz’s—Worcester-Township, [Pa.] October 17th 1777.
Bennington.Albany stanwix.

The troops are to be under arms at eleven o’clock this forenoon, except those men who are employed in making cartridges; and the General expects that the commanding officer of each regiment daily keeps a number of the best hands diligently working at that business, ’till further orders. The troops are to parade with one days provisions ready cooked.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 17 October 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
York Town: Pennsylvania October 17th 1777.

I do myself the Honour to forward the enclosed Resolves in Obedience to the Commands of Congress, and shall only refer your Attention to them.
I congratulate you on the Success of our Arms in the Northern Department. Lest you should not have recieved an Account of the Particulars from Genl Gates, I do myself the Pleasure to forward you a Copy of his Letter to Congress together with the Inclosures. From the Character and Rank of the Prisoners, I am in Hopes the Victory is compleat, and that it will be the Means of giving a decisive Turn henceforth to our Affairs in that Quarter. With every Wish in your Favour, and with Sentiments of perfect Esteem & Respect, I have the Honour to be, Sir your most obed. & very hble Servt

John Hancock Presid.

I have this moment Recd your favr of 16th which I shall lay before Congress on Monday.


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 17 October 1777
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
York Town [Pa.] October 17th 1777

It is now above Two years since I have had the Honour of Presiding in Congress, and I should Esteem myself happy to have it in my Power to render further Service to my Country in that Department; but the decline of Health occasion’d by so long & unremitting an Application to the Duties of my Office both in Congress and out of Congress, join’d to the Scituation of my own private Affairs, have at length taught me to think of Retiring for two or three Months, & I have Determin’d to take my Leave the ensuing week, & set out immediately for Boston after this Express returns.
As the Congress will doubtless proceed to appoint a Successor in my stead, on him therefore will devolve the Business of the Chair—It will fall within the Line of his Duty to keep up that Connection & Correspondence with you which has heretofore been mine, & I sincerely hope he may do it, as well as discharge every other Duty incident to the Office, with more Advantage than I have done—Upon the Review however of the Intercourse that has Subsisted between us, I cannot avoid saying, that I feel a great Degree of pleasure in having to the utmost of my power endeavour’d to Execute the Business committed to my

Care, and in a particular manner with regard to the Army under your Command, I flatter myself my Conduct in this instance will meet with your Approbation. The Politeness and Attention I have ever experienc’d from you in the Course of our Correspondence will always be a Source of the most pleasing Satisfaction to me.
As it is probable I shall meet with some difficulty in crossing the North River, & shall run a considerable Risque in passing thro’ some Tory Towns on the East Side, I must Ask the favour of you to give me Authority to order a few Light Horse from thence to Escort me through that part of the Country. I apprehend I may safely go from hence to North River, tho’ I should be happy in having your Opinion & as to the best Rout.
On my Arrival in Boston I shall think myself happy to be favour’d with any Commands from you, and should any thing of a publick Nature occur, I will do myself the honour of letting you hear from me. With the most sincere wishes that you may soon triumph over the Enemies of America, and meet with every publick & private Prosperity, & with the utmost Respect, I am Sir Your most Obedt Servt

John Hancock


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, 17 October 1777
From: Wayne, Anthony
To: Washington, George

Sir
Skippack [Pa.] 17th Octr 1777

Altho’ I am Confident that your time is Necessarily taken up on the most Important business—yet my own Honor and Charecter—Induces me to Request your perusual of the Enclosed Defence—every part of which I have fully proved by Indubitable Evidence and however the Gentn who Composed the Courts of Enquiry may have Determined—yet so Concious am I of having done my Duty—that I am very Desirous of having my Conduct brought to the Decision of a Genl Court Martial—if the least doubt Remains on your Excellencies mind with Regard to it.
I don’t know what the Opinion of the Court was—nor have I any Copy of the Evidences—or my own Defence—excepting this which I beg may be Return’d. Interim I am your Excellenci[e]s most Obt Huml. Sert

Anty Wayne


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Wharton, Jr., 17–18 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Wharton, Thomas Jr.

Sir.
Head Quarters [Worcester Township, Pa.] 17[–18]th Octor 1777

As the term of service of great numbers of the Militia of this State, who were called out some time ago, has expired, and their places have been by no means punctually filled up by succeeding Classes, I am constrained to call upon you in the most pressing manner, to exert the Powers of Government, not only to keep up the number of four thousand Men demanded by Congress, but of a much greater number if they can possibly be armed & accoutred. When the Capital of your State is in the Enemies hands, and when they can only be dislodged from thence, by a powerful reinforcement of Militia, in aid of the Continental Troops, there Should not be a moments hesitation whether one or two Classes should be commanded to appear, but at least one half of the Men capable to bear arms should be calld into the Field. By exertions of this kind, New York, tho’ sorely oppressed by our avowed Enemies, and more so by our internal foes, has made a noble resistance; And New Jersey has kept the Enemy out of her limits (except now and then a hasty descent) without a Continental regiment. Besides doing this, she has sent, and is now sending reinforcements to this and the Northern Army. It will be no great while, before the Militia from Maryland & Virginia will have performed their Tour of duty, & ⟨from⟩ the distance, which most of them have to travel before they re⟨ach the Ar⟩my, I cannot expect much more assistance from these quarters in the course of the remaining part of the Campaign. I assure you, Sir, it is matter of astonishment to every part of the Continent, to hear that Pensylvania, the most opulent and populous of all the States, has but Twelve hundred Militia in the Field, at a time, when the Enemy are endeavouring to make themselves compleatly masters of, and to fix their winter Quarters in her Capital. Without the free Navigation of Delaware, I am confident that Genl Howe will never remain in Philadelphia, and I am as confident, that had I a sufficient force to afford as much assistance to the Forts upon Delaware as their importance deserves, that he would not be able to possess them. I have sp⟨ar⟩ed a⟨s⟩ many of the Continental Troops as I possibly can, without endangering the safety of this Army, and I shall still continue to afford ev’ry further

relief in my Power. From this state of facts, I hope that you will not lose a moment, in calling upon, and endeavouring to rouse the people of this Province to a manly and effectual opposition, and I know of no means so likely to answer, as not to confine the demand to any particular number, but call upon every man to come forth. The County Lieutenants should be particularly careful to see that all those who have Arms and accoutrements of their own, bring them out, for they have a very mistaken notion that there are full supplies in the Continental stores. Many even come out without Blankets, expecting to find them.
There is another matter which I beg leave to recommend to the Serious consideration of the Legislature of your state: That is the falling upon some mode of compleating and keeping up the Quota of your Continental regiments. Upon an average your Battalions have never been above one third full, and now, many of them are far below even that. From the extravagant prices given to substitutes in the Militia in the different States, it has become impossible to recruit Men upon the Bounty allowed by Congress. The New England States and Virginia have began to adopt the mode of drafting, and I am informed they have succeeded very well. I am convinced that this will be found the only method of raising Continental Troops, and if this measure was to become general throughout the States, it would not be deemed a hardship. I mention this matter to you at this time, in hopes that you will, as soon as possible, fall upon this or some other mode to recruit your regiments in the course of this fall and Winter, and as it is more than probable that our opposition will not end with this Campaign, we ought to endeavour to have a respectable Army in the Field, in the Spring, before the Enemy can recieve further reinforcements from Europe. I have the Honor to be Sir Your most Obet hum: Servant

Go: Washington

Just as I was upon closing my letter the enclosed most interesting and happy intelligence came to my hands. It remains for us to play a counterpart, and to enable me to do it effectually I hope the whole Force of your State will pour forth.


Title: General Orders, 18 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, at Wentz’s, Worcester Township [Pa.] October 18th 1777.
Reading.Rochester. Ridgefield.

The General has his happiness completed relative to the successes of our northern Army. On the 14th instant, General Burgoyne, and his whole Army, surrendered themselves prisoners of war—Let every face brighten, and every heart expand with grateful Joy and praise to the supreme disposer of all events, who has granted us this signal success—The Chaplains of the army are to prepare short discourses, suited to the joyful occasion to deliver to their several corps and brigades at 5 O’clock this afternoon—immediately after which, Thirteen pieces of cannon are to be discharged at the park of artillery, to be followed by a feu-de-joy with blank cartridges, or powder, by every brigade and corps of the army, beginning on the right of the front line, and running on to the left of it, and then instantly beginning on the left of the 2nd line, and running to the right of it where it is to end—The Major General of the day will superintend and regulate the feu-de-joy.
The officers commanding brigades and corps are to draw out their men; (excepting those on duty) every day, when the weather permits, to practice the most necessary manœuvres, particularly to advance in line from thence, to form columns—to go thro’ passes and openings in fences—and to reduce them again; to retire in line and column, and form again; in a word, to perform all those movements, which in action, in a woody and inclosed country shall make necessary.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Arendt, 18 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Arendt, Henry Leonard Philip

Sir
Head Qrs [Worcester Township, Pa.] Octob. 18th 1777.

Being recovered from the indisposition under which you lately laboured, you are to proceed immediately to Fort Mifflin on Mud Island and to take the command of the Troops there and those which may be sent.
I shall not prescribe any particular line for your conduct, because I repose the utmost confidence in your bravery knowledge and Judgment; and because the mode of defence must depend on a variety of circumstances, which will be best known to those, who are on the Spot. I will add that the maintenance of this post is of the last importance to the States of America, and that preventing the Enemy from obtaining possession of it, under the smiles of Heaven, will be the means of our defeating the Army to which we are opposed, or of obliging them disgracefully to abandon the City of Philadelphia, which is now in their hands.
I have detached to day a further Reinforcement to the Garrison, and have instructed Colo. Greene who commands at Red Bank to cooperate with you & to render you every assistance in his power. You will maintain with him, and with Commodore Hazlewood, who commands our Fleet, a good understanding and the strictest harmony. This will be essential, and mutually aiding each other, I shall look forward for the most happy events.

You will be particularly attentive to the state of your amunition and provision, advising me of the same from time to time and of such supplies as you may judge necessary to be sent you. You will also report to me, the situation of the Garrison as often as it shall be requisite and will not fail to transmit me frequent and the most early intelligence of every important occurrence.
I shall be done, after recommending your utmost dispatch to arrive at the Garrison and my warmest wishes that the command may prove honourable to yourself and beneficial to America. I am Sir with great respect Yr Most Obed. St

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Christopher Greene, 18 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Christopher

Head Quarters [Worcester Township, Pa.] Octor 18th 1777
Sir

Lt Colo. Green marched this morning to reinforce the Garrison at Fort Mifflin, with a detachment of Two hundred Men, & Colo. Arendt will immediately set out to take the Command of that Fort. When the Garrison was first sent to that Post, this Gentn was appointed to take the Command of it, but an indisposition with which he was seized prevented his entering upon it before. He is now recover’d, and it devolves upon him of course. He is a Gentn of abilities and experience in war, & I have no doubt will do justice to his trust. Col. Angel will remain with you at Red-Bank, and you will cooperate with Colo. Arendt, in every respect. I am persuaded the greatest harmony will exist between you and him, and between the Garrisons and the Fleet, which you well know is essential to your success.
We have just reciev’d the most important & interesting intelligence from the Northward which is contained in the following letter.

Albany 15th Octor 1777.

Last Night at 8 OClock the capitulation whereby Genl Burgoyne and whole Army surrenderd themselves Prisoners of war was sign’d, and this morning they are to march out towards the river above fish Creek with the honors of war (and there ground their Arms) they are from thence to be marched to Massachusets Bay. We congratulate you on this happy event, and remain yrs &c.

Geo. Clinton

This happy event should stimulate us to redoubled efforts in this Quarter; and particularly towards prese[r]ving the obstructions in the

river from being removed. If this can be effectually done, General Howe must lose all the advantages of his past success. I am Sr yrs &c.

G.W——

p.s. Of all things, let no attention be wanting that you secure a competent supply of Ammunition. I have just rec’d information, that the Enemy are preparing a number of floating Batteries; this is a circumstance that ought seriously to be attended to. Inform the Commodore of it. I need not repeat my desire you will afford all the assistance from your Garrison, to the Fleet & Fort Island that they may require.

It will not be prudent to publish the approach of the reinforcement I mention, as it may perhaps get to the Enemy’s ears and induce them to take measures for intercepting it.


Title: Instructions to Lieutenant Colonel John Green, 18 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Green, John

sir
[Worcester Township, Pa., 18 October 1777]

You are immediately to proceed with the Troops under your command by the shortest Route to Bristol, where you will cross the Deleware & continue your March by way of Haddonfield to Red Bank, from whence you are to go over to fort Mifflin & do every thing in your power for the Support & defence of that Garrison.
You will take no baggage but what is absolutely necessary, & your March should be execut’d with the greatest secrecy & dispatch—I have nothing further to add, than that I expect every thing in the defence of this important Pass, from the Unanimous Council & Joint Exertions of the Commodore & Officers at the different Posts. Given at Head Qrs Worcester Township Octr 18th 1777.

G.W.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 18 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Head Quarters [Worcester Township, Pa.] 18th October 1777.
Sir

I do myself the honour to transmit you the inclosed most interesting and agreeable intelligence which I have this moment recd from Genl Putnam. I can scarce doubt but Genl Gates has sent you an Express, but lest he, from the important Business in which he was engaged, should not have done it, I have immediately forwarded it, that you might not be debarred from so great a pleasure an instant longer than was necessary. I have the Honor to be Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from Captain Henry Lee, Jr., 18 October 1777
From: Lee, Henry Jr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Octr 18th 77—P.M.—6 O’clock

From the intelligence received from a couple of women who had passed thro’ the enemy’s camp yesterday evening, I was somewhat apprehensive of a movement this morning. As their information was rather vague & incoherent, I did not trouble your Excelly with it, but thought necessary to apprize the officers of horse on the lines, in order to stimulate their vigilance. Confident that no movement could possibly escape our notice, so far, as to allow of a surprize to your Excelly’s army.
By various intelligencers, the enemy are busily engaged in building floating batteries. They have made a considerable progress in this business. From the conversation of the common soldiery, there seems to be no intention of any offensive measur[e]s on their side. On the contrary they are in constant apprehension of an attack from your Excelly. There is a man by the name of Spingler who professes a friendship to the American arms. From what I can learn he is playing a double part. I think it proper to mention him to your Excellency, tho’ I know of nothing certain concerning his duplicity. With most profound respect your Excellys most Obt H. Servant

Heny Lee, Jr


Title: To George Washington from Richard Peters, 18 October 1777
From: Peters, Richard
To: Washington, George

Sir
War Office [York, Pa.] Octr 18th 1777

I have the Honour to enclose all the Accounts we have in the Office of the State of Arms & military Stores. Lead is the most wanting & the Board have applied to Maryland & Virginia for an immediate Loan which it is hoped will be complied with as both those States have a considerable private Stock of this Article. Chiswells Mines are at Work on public Account & the Works are in but indifferent repair Govr Henry is of Opinion that considerable Supplies may be drawn from thence. The Estimate is made only to the 11th of August as very little Additions have since been made of which authentic Intelligence has been recieved. Col. Flower can inform what Part of the Lead deposited in Pennsilvania has been consumed & what is become of the Lead which composed the Spouts taken out of Philadelphia. The Lead said in the Estimate to be at Baltimore was sent to Carlisle. I have also enclosed an Abstract of Arms &c. delivered out at Philadelphia only which compared with the present Wants of the Army affords a disagreeable Picture of the Inattention to Œconomy among the Soldiers &, it is to be feared, too many of the Officers. A few Pairs of Shoes have been collected & sent from this Place but all the Supplies from hence will be inadequate to the Demand—Perhaps 12,00 Pair will be the utmost of the Collection this Way. The Board have sent to the Government of this State a Plan for siezing Blanketts, Shoes & Stockings from the dissaffected in Chester County & other Parts of the State which they are desired to communicate to your Excellency & request your Cooperation therein. With what Vigour & Dispatch this Plan will be executed by the Council is yet to be determined, but certain it is the speediest Exertions are indispensibly necessary or Consequences of an alarming Nature must follow. Col. Flower as soon as his Place of residence is known will be written to on the proposed Amendment in the Cartouch Boxes. Would not a Piece of painted Canvass answer the Purpose of lining the Flaps so as to guard against rain? Leather is extremely scarce & indeed hardly to be procured at any Rate. I should imagine that much Leather might be saved in Cartouch Boxes if only the Front & the Flaps were made of that Article nailed on the Wood which might be blackened & made to look very well. I am told many of the British Cartouch Boxes are made in this Way.

I have it in Direction to request a General Return of the Army with which Congress have not been favored for some Time past. I have the Honour to be with the greatest Respect your very obedt Servt

Richard Peters Secy


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Potter, 18 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Potter, James

Sir.
Head Quarters Peter Wentz’s 18th October, 1777.

I congratulate you upon the glorious successes of our Arms in the North an account of which is enclosed. This singular favour of Providence is to be received with thankfulness and the happy moment which Heaven has pointed out for the firm establishment of American Liberty ought to be embraced with becoming spirit—it is incumbent upon every man of influence in his country to prevail upon the militia to take the field with that energy which the present crisis evidently demands. I have no doubt of your exerting yourself in this way—In the post which you now occupy you may render the most important services by cutting off the enemies convoys and communications with their Fleet, for this purpose you shall strain every nerve—there is another thing which I would suggest and leave you to judge of the practicability of it—I think that you might harrass the parties of the enemy on Province Island in such a manner as to produce a great Diversion in favour of Fort Mifflin. Let me again entreat you and through your means every one of any influence among the Militia, to exert it to the utmost in exciting them to the field where by seasonable Reinforcements the glorious work we have in hand will be completed. I am Your most h’ble Servt

Go Washington.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Potter, 18 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Potter, James

Sir
Head Quarters [Worcester Township, Pa.] Octr 18. 1777.

From the intelligence I have received I am persuaded the enemy are about to retreat from Philadelphia, despairing of getting up their shipping. I therefore desire you, after sending out the necessary scouts, & satisfying yourself of their situation, to throw yourself down in their way, & in case of their actual retreating, to harass & impede them to the utmost of your power. I shall at the same time advance and pursue with the utmost diligence, if the conjecture should prove true. your obedt servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Smith, 18 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, Samuel

Head Quarters [Worcester Township, Pa.] October 18th 1777
Sir

In order to put your garrison in a more effectual state of defence, I have sent you a reinforcement of 200 men under Lt Col. Greene, who marched this morning to join you. Col. Arendt having now recovered from his indisposition will this day proceed to Fort Mifflin to take the command there agreeable to my first intention. Your conduct since you have been vested with it, has been such as to merit my intire approbation, and I am assured it will continue to be such as will finally preserve to you an equal claim to it. Col. Arendt’s knowledge and experience in war fully intitle him to the confidence of every officer and man under his command.
I am happy to communicate to you the important intelligence contained in the following letter. I am Sir Your most Obedt servt.
P.S. The enemy I am informed are preparing some floating batteries. This should be seriously attended to. Youll mention it to the Commodore. do not mention any thing of the reinforcement lest it may reach the Enemys ears—and they might endeavour to intercept it.

A very intelligent Gentleman just from Philada informs me that the Enemy find as much difficulty in raising Batteries from the Wetness of the Meadows, as from any thing else and rather more. They have stopped the Breaches as well as they can, but he thinks if a party of Men were to go privately every night or two and peirce the Banks of province Island that it would be next to impossible for them to carry on the Work. Endeavour by all means to have this done, but never let the thing be spoke of before it is undertaken or it may some how or other come to the Enemy’s Ears and they may take steps to prevent you.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Smith, 18 October 1777
From: Smith, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Fort Mifflin [Pa.] 18th Oct. 1777.

I wrote your Excellency the Second day the enemy open’d their batteries; they have since continued a fire from their two Bomb Batteries and red hot balls from their works at the Port [pest] houses, as yet without much damage. Yesterday an unlucky shell fell in a barracks where the soldiers had gone contrary to orders, which killed one and wounded 3 others, two of them very slightly. They have last night thrown up another Bomb Battery, between their two first, it is not yet opened. They have been kind in permitting us to sleep at night. We are making every preparation against a storm for which purpose we are intrenching within the Fort, to annoy them even should they get possession of the out works.
I wrote your Excellency that the Commodore had removed his fleet under Red Bank, Since which he has sent us no guard but four pound boats, which we think insufficient to guard the defenceless part of the Island. Your Excellency knows that the side of the Fort next Red Bank has nothing but a Wall and narrow ditch for it’s defence, and that it would be easily defended in case of Storm by a few gallies, who would rake with Grape shot all that bank and Sink any boats, that might

attempt to land on that side, which is left defenceless will be the most probable place of their landing, the landing in front and rear of our mud or Grand Battery is also very good, and the very probable place for boats which may come up from their fleet and whose landing will most likely be covered by their Gondolas and tenders against which the four pound boats cannot lay. This was the opinion of all the gentlemen in garrison, which wrote to the Commodore, his answer is—“I received yours this morning, and have provided such a guard as is thought consistent with the opinion of a full council of War, held Oct. [1]6th, and carried by the whole of them, that all the gallies could do for you should be done, and that they should not be Sent to be Sacrificed, when they would have no chance of annoying the enemy, but lay and look at your garrison, and be of no use to you nor the country, but fall a Sacrifice to your pleasure.”
The Commodore has promised that as soon as we are attacked he will come over with all his fleet to our assistance. My Opinion [is] that his assistance will be too late and I can’t help thinking that the fleet will run as great [a] risk coming over to us, or if a guard from it was to lay in the night out of the rake of their shot and bombs, and where they might be of the utmost Service to us. I have stated our situation to your Excellency, who will, I presume, determine whether the Commodore’s support is as much as he can give, consistent with the good of the fleet. I am still of opinion the enemy have not more than 500, if so many on Province Island. I have the honor to be, Your Excellency’s M. O. S.

P.S. Two gallies could lay quite safe from both bombs and shot under the piers. I mean entirely covered. Certain it is that the enemy have a communication with their fleet from Philadelphia, along the banks of Province Island, as large numbers of wagons are heard to pass and repass every night.


Title: General Orders, 19 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, At Wentz’s, Worcester Township [Pa.] October 19th 1777.
Berwick.Chester. Dover.

The Brigadiers and officers commanding brigades are to appoint General Courts Martial, in their respective brigades, for the trial of all non-commissioned officers and privates, now in the provost, belonging to their respective brigades—These courts are to sit to morrow morning, at 9 o’clock, and daily afterwards, ’till all the prisoners are tried—Each court will appoint a Judge Advocate.
The Commander in Chief approves, the following sentences of a General Court Martial, held the 7th & 10th instant, whereof Col. Brodhead was president.
Capt: Crump of the 1st Virginia regiment charged with “Cowardice”—is found guilty, and sentenced to be cashiered—and his name—place of abode, and his punishment, published in the News-papers of the particular state he came from, or in which he usually resides—After which, it shall be deemed scandalous, for any officer to associate with him.
Capt: John Stoner of the 10th Pennsylv: regiment, charged with “Leaving the regiment in a cowardly manner, in the action at Chad’s ford, on the Brandywine, on the 11th of September last”—found guilty of leaving the regiment improperly the 11th of Septr last when an action was expected, but not in a cowardly manner, and sentenced to be reprimanded by the Brigadier General of the brigade, the 10th Pennsylv: regiment is in, in the presence of the officers of the brigade.
The Commander in Chief likewise approves the following sentences of the same Court Martial, held the 11th and 12th instant. viz.

Lieut: William Courts of the 2nd Maryland regiment, charged with “Cowardice at the Battle of Brandywine, on the 11th of September last; also with giving Major Adams of the 7th Maryland regiment impertinent, and abusive language when he applied to him, to know the reason of his conduct on that day”—Acquitted of the charges against him.
Lieut: Simon Morgan of the 13th Virginia regiment charged with “Cowardice on the 4th instant”—Acquitted with honor by the unanimous opinion of the court.
Capt. Henry Shade of the 10th Pennsylvania regiment charged with “Absenting himself from the regiment without leave for near two months”—found guilty and sentenced to be cashiered.
Lieut. Rains of the 15th Virginia regt charged with “Sending a soldier (William Bluford) to bring water in a tin Cartridge box”—found, by the unanimous opinion of the court, not guilty of the charge.
The Commander in Chief approves the following sentence of a General Court Martial, of the brigade of horse, held the 17th instant, of which Col. Moylan was president—viz.
Lieut. Col. Byrd, charged with “Countermanding the orders, Col. Bland gave to two soldiers, to fall into their ranks, repeatedly on parade, and for disobeying the orders of Col. Bland, when directed to order the said men into their ranks, on the night, the Cavalry passed the Schuylkill”—Col. Byrd admitted the justness of the charge—Whereupon the Court considered, whether Col. Bland had, or had not, a right, to command Lieut. Col. Byrd, while a superior officer was present, and determined that he had not.
The regimental surgeons are to make returns of the sick in camp, who are proper subjects for the hospital, to Dr Cochran, at the Qr Mr General’s quarters, to morrow morning at 8 o’clock precisely.
After Orders. The whole army is to be ready to march to morrow morning, at 4 o’clock, with what tents—necessary baggage &c.—are at the present encampment—If any of the troops have not already drawn provision for to morrow, it is now to be drawn and cooked without loss of time—The Commissaries of divisions are instantly to send down provisions; for their respective detachments which marched this morning, with orders to reach the detachments before they stop.


Title: From George Washington to Commodore John Hazelwood, 19 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hazelwood, John

Head Quarters [Worcester Township, Pa.] 19th October 1777
Sir

The fogginess of the mornings is so very great, that I think the Enemy will attempt a surprise upon Fort Mifflin at such a time or at night if they mean it at all. To prevent this, I would recommend it to you to keep Boats rowing guard as near the shore of province Island as they possibly can with safety.
I am so fully convinced of the importance of your Station, that I have sent you rather more men than were demanded for its defence, and as many of the two Rhode Island Regiments are Seamen they will afford you very considerable assistance.
The Enemy last night evacuated Germantown and fell down to Philada. Our Army will advance towards them in the morning, and as we shall be near them, I hope we shall prevent them from detatching any considerable force to reduce Fort Mifflin. I recommended it to Colo. Smith to endeavour by all means to keep the Breaches in the Banks of province Island open, as I am certain it will incommode them vastly in carrying on their Works. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Brig. Gen. James Potter, 19 October 1777 [letter not found]
From: Potter, James
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Brig. Gen. James Potter, 19 Oct. 1777. GW wrote Potter on 19 Oct.: “I have received yours of 2 OClock this morning.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Potter, 19 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Potter, James

Dr Sir,
Head Quarters [Worcester Township, Pa.] 19th Octr 1777

I have receivd your Letter by the bearer and am exceeding sorry to find your Brigade so much weaken’d—What can be the meaning of it? I have no doubt but that you will render all the Service you can with those you have, & therefore shall say nothing more on that head—The Enemy have totally abandoned German Town—I sent a large Detachment there this Morning who got down just as they had withdrawn their Picquets. the whole Army will move downwards at four Oclock in the Morning when we shall be nearer to you.
I am not so much of opinion that the Enemy are about to remove from Phila. as that they are meditating a serious attack upon our defences of the River. for this reason it is that I wish you could annoy them that way if possible. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt St

Go: Washington

P.S. Is there no getting more of the Militia of Chester &ca to your aid?


Title: From George Washington to Major General Israel Putnam, 19 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Putnam, Israel

Dr Sir
Camp 20 Miles from Philad. Octr 19. 1777.

Your favor of the 16th I received Yesterday morning—and was much obliged by the interesting Contents. The defeat of Genl Burgoyne is a most important event, and such as must afford the highest satisfaction to every well affected American breast. Should providence be pleased to crown our Arms in the course of the Campaign with one more fortunate stroke I think we shall have no great cause for anxiety respecting the future designs of Britain—I trust all will be well in his good time. The obvious intention of Sr Henry Clinton was to releive Genl Burgoyne & being disappointed in that by his surrender, I presume he will make an expeditious return. I am happy to find you at the Head of so respectable a force and flatter myself, if He should land with a view to Action, tho I do not expect it, you will give us a happy account of him. I beleive from the bravery of the Garrison of Fort Montgomery, he purchased victory at no inconsiderable expence. Genl Campbell was certainly killed—This they mention in their own printed account—but call him Colo. of the 52d Regt. He was a Genl on the American Establishment—so declared in One of the Orderly Books which fell into our Hands.
I have but little to add respecting the situation of Affairs here. They remain much as they were when I wrote you last. To remove the Obstructions in the River, seems to be a Capital object with the Enemy—Their attempts hitherto have not succeeded & I hope will not.
I am extremely sorry for the death of Mrs Putnam & sympathise with you upon the occasion. Remembering that All must die, and that she had lived to an honourable age, I hope you will bear the misfortune, with that fortitude and complacency of mind, that become a man & a Christian. I am Dr Sir with great esteem Yr Most Obedt servt.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Arendt, 20 October 1777
From: Arendt, Henry Leonard Philip
To: Washington, George

Your Excellency
Burlington [N.J.] Octor 20th 1777

At my Arriving in Burlington I had the pleasure of meeting with Lieut. Coll Green whose orders I have seen and find his directions are for Fort Mifflin instead of red Bank, as Expressed in mine, And as the date of my order was neglected, beg you will please to fix it on Acct of my Command, which Coll Green thinks Necessary—having had the misfortune to loose my Commission, beg you will please to furnish me with a fresh one, the manner in which I lost it, was with part of my baggage, the date, of my Commission was from the 19th March last, I have inclosed you the Copies of each of our Orders which you will Please to rectify, Viz. Respecting Col: Green Com: & likewise Request you will give Instructions to the Commander at the Fort Respecting my Command, I shall immedeately upon this, set off for the Fort, and Wait the Express which Your Excellency will please to order off with all dispatch. I am with Great Respect & Esteem Your most Obet humble Servant

Baron Arendt

N.B. Coll Green expects to be at Red Bank by to Morrow Evening where the Express will Overtake him—My name to be wrote in the Commiss[i]on Henry Leonard, Philip.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Arendt, 20 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Arendt, Henry Leonard Philip

Sir
Head Quarters [Whitpain Township, Pa.] 20th October 1777 10 OClock at Night

I am just now favd with yours of this date and am sorry that you laboured under any mistake on accot of there being two Officers of the name of Green. Colo. Christopher Green of Rhode Island is to command at Red Bank and Lt Colo. Jno. Green of Virginia is to go into Fort Mifflin with the detatchment under his command. I have no Blank Commissions with me and am therefore obliged to send you a Certificate of your Rank and date of your Appointment. I beg you will make the greatest haste to throw yourself into Fort Mifflin in the defence of which I wish you the greatest success. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 20 October 1777
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir.
Hurly 2½ Miles to the Southwest of Kingston [N.Y.] 20 Octr 1777.

I had the Honor of receiving your Excellency’s Letter of the 15th Instant last Evening and am happy to hear that the Enemy have been repulsed in their Attempts upon the Cheveau de Frize since it would seem that their Quarters at Philadelphia may be rendered rather inconvenient unless they can gain Possession of the River.
Two Days after the Loss of Fort Montgomery—2 Row Gallies & an Armed Schooner belonging to the Enemy proceeded up the River as far as the Cheveux De frize near New Windsor we had the Brass 24 ldr then only & but a few Rounds of Shot fit for it those we sent them with such Success as to cause them to return down the River The next Day the same Vessells with a small Brigg came up a second Time & all our Shott being expended they passed the Cheveaux De frize which (owing to the Artificers Imployed in that Business being taken off to work on

the Chain) was not quite compleated & sailed up the River as far as Poughkeepsie burning some Mills & other Buildings on the Shores & then returned.
On the fifteenth Instant thirty Sail of the Enemy great and small came past the Cheveaux De Frize with a strong Southerly Wind and stood along to the Northward. I immediately gave Orders to the Troops under my Command to march for Kingston to which Place I immediately proceeded with all the Dispatch in my Power and arrived there in the Evening. The Enemy’s Fleet then lay eight Miles below the Landing Place of the Town. In the Morning they got under Way with the Tide of Flood and a light Northerly Wind and at high Water about Noon were opposite the Landing Place two miles from Kingston where they came to and after making the necessary Dispositions effected a Landing under cover of a pretty smart Cannonade. I have had various Accounts of their Numbers from two thousand to seven hundred but as Genl Vaughan commanded in Person from that and other Circumstances in the different Accounts I am led to beleive they were about fifteen hundred strong. We had favorable Ground as could be wished but it was Defended by about one hundred & fifty Militia only who had been drawn up to oppose the Enemy upon a small Plain near the Water As the landing was made to the Northward of that Place so as to come up on the Flank of the few Men we had Colo. Pawling who commanded ordered a Retreat to the Gorge of the Hills which was most defencible but when there the Enemy were so near that the Men could not be formed but retired with the utmost Precipitation. A second Attempt was made to rally them about half a Mile from the Town but fortunately without Success as the Enemy could have flanked them in that Place and would probably have destroyed the whole Party. Having most anxiously tho in Vain expected the Arrival of the Troops from New Windsor I was obliged to retire from the Town about four oClock a few Minutes after which it was in Flames. When I quitted it I gave Orders for the few Men there to form at this Village to which I had previously ordered the Troops on their March from New Windsor to file off a cross Road to their left and then rode down to the Southward to meet my little Army. They were making the utmost Haste to come up their Front had got within 2 Miles of the Town having marched 25 Miles in 24 Hours but they were so extreemly Fatigued and so worn out by the March that I was obliged to file off still more to the left and encamp at a Place called Marble Town about five Miles Southwest of this. The Enemy being informed by one of the Inhabitants that I was at this Place retreated to their Ships with the utmost Precipitation. There was no Blood spilt on this Occasion except an old Negro and a disaffected Prisoner who were both pierced by the Bayonet and the latter killed.

He received the Wound while he was shouting for Joy at the Success of the Enemy’s Arms.
Since that Day they have proceeded a little higher up the River burning and destroying every thing in their Power. The Orders given being as I am informed to burn every House and kill every Man they meet with[.] These Sir are the Lawrels they have gathered since we were driven from Fort Montgomery. Had I been reinforced from Gen. Putnam’s Army in the Manner I had Reason to expect I should have thrown a Force into Kingston sufficient to have preserved it. As it was I could only be the lame Spectator of their Barbarity But I hope we shall have it in our Power at some future Period to shew how much we despise those who can commit such Villainous Outrages. Genl Burgoyne’s Surrender you will before this Time have heard of I shall not therefore trouble your Excellency with mentioning the Articles. I pray you Sir to believe that I am with the deepest Respect your Excellency’s most obedient & humble Servant.

P.S. My situation & hurry prevented my Sending Congress an Acct of the Loss of Fort Montgomery &c. which Genl Putnam promised to do but least he may have neglected it, Pray your Excellency will be pleased to inform Congress of the ⟨substance⟩ of my Past Letter on that Subject & of this.

My Little Army being principally composed of Militia induced me to take the Liberty of detaining Colo. Malcom here to assist me who has been of great Service—Coud his little Regt have been here with him I am persuaded they might get many Recruits from the Militia with whom his Officers have a general Acquaintance.


Title: To George Washington from Richard Henry Lee, 20 October 1777
From: Lee, Richard Henry
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
York [Pa.] the 20th October 1777

Your favor of the 16th I received yesterday, and was a good deal surprised to find you had been told that Congress had appointed Gen. Conway a Major General. No such appointment has been made, nor do I believe it will, whilst it is likely to produce the evil consequences you suggest. It is very true, that both within and without doors, their have been Advocates for the measure, and it has been affirmed that it

would be very agreeable to the army, whose favorite Mr Conway was asserted to be. My judgement on this business was not formed until I received your letter. I am very sure Congress would not take any step that might injure the Army, or even have a tendency that way; and I verily believe they wish to lessen your difficulties by every means in their power, from an entire conviction that the purest motives of public good direct your actions.
The business of a Board of War is so extensive, so important, and demanding such constant attention, that Congress see clearly the necessity of constituting a new Board, out of Congress, whose time shall be entirely devoted to that essential department. It is by some warmly proposed that this board shall be filled by the three following gentlemen, Colo. Read, Colo. Pickering the present Adjutant General, and Colo. Harrison your Secretary. And that Gen. Conway be appointed A.G. in the room of Colo. Pickering. It is my wish, and I am sure it is so of many others, to know your full and candid sentiments on this subject. For my own part, I cannot be satisfied with giving any opinion on the point until I am favored with your sentiments, which I shall be much obliged to you for Sir as soon as your time will permit. It has been affirmed that Gen. Conway would quit the service if he were not made a M. General. But I have been told, in confidence, that he would leave it at the end of this Campaign if he was appointed, unless his word of honor were taken to continue for any fixed time. And it is a question with me whether the Advocates for Gen. Conway will not miss their aim if he should be appointed A. General, unless he has the rank of Maj. General also. My reason for thinking so, is, that I have been informed Gen. Conway desires to retire to his family, provided he can carry from this Country home with him, a rank that will raise him in France. It is very certain that the public good demands a speedy erecting, and judicious filling of the new Board of War; and I sincerely wish it may be done in the most proper manner. I do not imagine Congress would appoint Colo. Harrison without first knowing whether you could spare him, nor do I think that so important an office as that of A.G. should be touched without maturest consideration.
We every moment expect the Express with an account that will enable us to congratulate you on the surrender of Gen. Burgoyne and the remains of his shattered army. This will be one of the Prussian sixes, and I augur that the other will soon cast up upon the Delaware. I am, with sincerest wishes for your health and success, dear Sir your most affectionate and obedient servant

Richard Henry Lee


Title: To George Washington from William Livingston, 20 October 1777 [letter not found]
From: Livingston, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Livingston, 20 Oct. 1777. GW wrote Livingston on 22 Oct.: “I have the honor of yours of the 20th.”


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Potter, 20 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Potter, James

[Whitpain Township, Pa.] Monday Night Nine OClock. 20th Octob: 1777
Sir

As I understand that the Party of the Enemy, that crossed Schuylkill last night, are intended as a covering party to a Convoy of provisions that is expected up from Chester, I am determined to intercept them if possible upon their return. For this purpose Genl Green will march with a party this Evening, and I desire that you will hold yourself in readiness to join him with the Troops under your command. If you should be above Merion Meeting House you will immediately fall down to that place and there wait for Genl Green, but if you should be between Merion and Derby you may wait upon your ground, only sending

an Officer to meet Genl Green at Merion Meeting and to conduct him to you. You will keep scouts constantly out upon the Road to know whether the Convoy has passed Derby upon its Return, and you are to order your parties to stop every person going toward Chester, to prevent intelligence. You will also keep parties upon the Roads leading from the middle and from Grays Ferries lest any more troops should come over. I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. Gen. Israel Putnam, 20 October 1777 [letter not found]
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. Gen. Israel Putnam, 20 Oct. 1777. GW wrote Putnam on 26 Oct.: “I have your favr of the 20th.”


Title: To George Washington from Capt. Isaiah Robinson, 20 October 1777 [letter not found]
From: Robinson, Isaiah
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Capt. Isaiah Robinson, 20 Oct. 1777. GW wrote Robinson on 25 Oct.: “Your favor of the 20th I duly receiv’d.”


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Smith, 20 October 1777
From: Smith, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Sir.
[Fort Mifflin, Pa., 20 October 1777]

I received your Excellencys favor of the 19th in which I observe you have thought proper to send the Baron d’Aranot to take the command of this Garrison. There will, therefore, be no further occasion for me here, as the party of Infantry left, of what I brought here, does not now exceed 80 men, which will scarce be a command for Maj. Ballard, and farther draft must be made for the artillery. I can no longer be of any service here, as should any accident happen the Baron, Col. Green will take the command. The regiment to which I belong, I am certain must want me much, the Colonel being wounded. I shall, therefore, be much obliged to your Excellency if you will recall me. Had it not been for the situation in which the fort was, and the near approach of the enemy, I should have ’eer this asked permision to join my corps. I am much obliged to your Excellency for your favorable opinion. It shall be my study while in the service to merit it.
Yesterday a red hot ball entered our Laboratory, where were to boxes of ammunition (about 30 cartouches) which blew up the barracks, and

had it not been for the activity of Capt. Wells, of the 4th Virginia, and Capt. Luct, in putting out the fire, would have done much damage. Province Island has been overflowed with very high tide, which most undoubtedly must hinder their works much. The Commodore sent proper guards last night, and I believe will continue them. We have nearly completed a redou⟨t⟩ in the centre of our fort for our dernier resort. In case of a storm it will be necessary to have the Barrack Master’s house (without the Garrison) burnt, as it will cover the enemy and intercept the rake of one of our block houses. If your Excellency thinks proper we will burn it. This night we will attempt cutting the banks, indeed with the reinforcement I think the Seige might be raised. I have the honor to be, Your Excellency’s M. O. S.


Title: General Orders, 21 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Whitpain Township [Pa.] Octobr 21st 1777.
ChathamCamden. Coventry.

A General Court Martial is to sit to morrow morning at 9 o’clock at the Quarter Master General’s quarters for the trial of all prisoners which shall be brought before them. Col. Grayson is appointed president of this court


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 21 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Head Qrs near White Marsh [Pa.] Octo. 21st 1777.

I last night had the honor to receive your Letter of the 17th Instant with its several Inclosures.
I heartily wish the States may feel the importance of filling their Batallions, and may, in consequence of the Recommendation of Congress, adopt such measures as will prove effectual for the purpose. I cannot but think that heretofore, there has been a want of attention in this instance, and that the subject, tho interesting to the last degree, has been viewed with too much indifference. The Resolution respecting Deserters, I hope will also have their notice. It is highly necessary, that they should come into some regulations for apprehending them and punishing those who give them countenance. If this is not done, our force will be always diminishing, and no exertions in the Army will prevent it. I shall try the effects of a proclamation on those who are now delinquents, and shall be happy if it meets with success—But confess from the experiment I have made that I am not sanguine in my expectations, that it will be the case.
As to the Recruiting Officers, I must observe that notwithstanding the Resolution of Congress of the 31st of July and my circular Letter on the Subject of it to many of the States, I have not received an account that any Officers have been appointed except in Connecticut & Jersey.
On Sunday the Enemy evacuated German Town and withdrew themselves within their Lines near the City. They seem determined to reduce the Forts, if possible, and for this purpose have thrown Several parties over on province Island. I was informed this afternoon, that a Detachment also passed the Delaware at Coopers Ferry in the morning. If the account be true, and I have no doubt of it, It is highly probable they mean to make an Attack upon the Garrison at Red Bank. I am

taking every measure in my power to counteract them, and have written to Genls Foreman & Newcomb of Jersey to afford every aid they can to releive the Fort, in case they do invest it. Against Fort Mifflin they have kept up a Canonade more or less every day & have thrown several Shells, but without doing any considerable damage. The explosion of One killed a private and wounded three Others, who were in a Barrack where it fell. They also set fire to two Ammunition boxes with a Hot Ball on the 19th which did some injury to the Barracks. I do not recollect that we have suffered lately in any instances besides these. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Yr Most Obedt servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Commodore John Hazelwood, 21 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hazelwood, John

Sir,
Head Quarters [Whitpain Township, Pa.] October 21:77

By this time, I imagine, Colonel Arendt will have arrived at Fort Mifflin, the command of which post was originally designed for him; he was prevented through indisposition from entering immediately upon it, but being now recovered, it of course devolves upon him.
This gentleman’s knowlege of and experience in war, which has been the study and business of his life, induce me to expect with intire confidence, that he will acquit himself in his command in a manner that will do him honor. I have also the fullest reliance that your most zealous exertions will be continued and that the happiest consequences will result from your united efforts. I cannot but repeat my ardent desire that harmony and a good understanding between the fleet and the garrisons, may be mutually cultivated. On this every thing depends, nothing but disappointment and disgrace can attend the want of it. The best designs and most important persuits have been and ever will be defeated by foolish differences when they exist between those engaged in them.
I have in terms equally strong, endeavored to impress upon Col: Greene and Col: Arendt the necessity of cultivating that harmony, I now recommend; and I earnes[t]ly hope their conduct on every occasion, may manifest a hearty disposition to promote so desireable an end. I am Sir Your most Obedt servant.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General James Potter, 21 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Potter, James

Dr Sir
Head Qrs [Whitpain Township, Pa.] Octob. 21st 1777.

Owing to the rain last night & the probability, that it might be of long continuance, the Detachment I wrote you about was prevented marching. One is now in motion for the same purpose. I wish you to obtain the best information you possibly can respecting the Convoy that went to Chester and to find out Whether it has returned. That the object we have in view may be facilitated and the Detachment not be liable to be intercepted, you will have all the Roads leading over Schuylkill properly waylaid & secured, that the Enemy may not receive intelligence of their movement. The Road also to province Island should be attended to, lest they should get information by means of the Tories & disaffected through that Channel. I need not suggest the propriety of secrecy upon this occasion. You well know upon this much depends.
If from your Scouts or other authentic advices you find, that the Convoy has returned, you will immediately send to Genl McDougal who commands the Detachment, that he may not continue his march. He will pass Schuylkill at Reese App Edwards’ Ford or will be on the Road leading to it. Should the Convoy have not returned, some prudent, intelligent Officers from your Brigade should meet the General at the Ford, that he may know how & where to form a junction with you. It will also be proper to procure Two or three well affected Gentlemen or Farmers, acquainted with the Country to join him there for the purpose of conducting him by the necessary Routs. I am Dr Sir yr most Obedt sert

G. Washington

P.S. I received no Answer by the return of the Express by whom I wrote last Night—do acknowledge the Receipt of this or I shall be doubtfull about it’s delivery.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Smith, 21 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, Samuel

Sir
Head Qrs [Whitpain Township, Pa.] Octob. 21st 1777.

Your favor of the 18th I received last night and was extremely sorry to find from the Commodores Letter, which made a part of Your’s, that you & he were not in the strictest harmony. This circumstance, I confess, gives me great uneasiness, as I well know that a good agreement between the Navy & Garrison is of the last importance, and that a want of co-operation and every possible mutual aid may involve the most unhappy consequences. persuaded of this, and recollecting the train of misfortunes that has been brought on in many instances by a difference of the like nature, I requested Baron DArendt in my instructions to him that to maintain a good understanding between him and the Commodore should be a great Object of his care and attention. This I hope he will do, and I have written to the Commodore to day, recommending the same to him in the strongest Terms. Hitherto a happy agreement has done much—It has disappointed the Enemy from effecting, notwithstanding their repeated efforts, what they seemed to consider without difficulty; And should the same spirit and disposition continue, I flatter myself, they will produce the same ends. I have not suggested to the Commodore, the most distant idea of my having heard of any misunderstanding between you. The matter is so delicate, that I would not have him beleive, that I even suspected it. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt servant.


Title: General Orders, 22 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Whitpain Township [Pa.] October 22nd 1777.
Lebanon.Windsor. Warwick.

such of the troops as have not already drawn provisions, for to day and to morrow, are to do it immediately, and cook the whole; and all be ready to march on the shortest notice.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. John Clark, 22 October 1777 [letter not found]
From: Clark, John Jr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. John Clark, Jr., 22 Oct. 1777. GW’s secretary Robert Hanson Harrison wrote Clark on 23 Oct.: “His Excellency received last night your favor of Yesterday” (DLC:GW).


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General David Forman, 22 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

Sir,
Head Quarters near White Marsh [Pa.] Octr [22] 1777

The Enemy yesterday morning threw a body of troops across the Delaware, with intention no doubt either to storm or invest Red-bank. As the Works there are strong, it is improbable they will hazard the loss of men, that would be likely to attend an assault, but will, I imagine, endeavour by a Blockade, to oblige the garrison to surrender. On this supposition, I am to request in the most earnest manner, that you will use your utmost Exertions, immediately to collect as large a body of Militia as you possibly can, and hasten them to the relief of that post. It is to be apprehended it’s supply of stores and provisions, may not be as ample as could be wished—this makes it necessary you should lose not a moments time to give it all the succour you can—I have written to General Newcomb on the same subject.
You need not be told, that should that post fall into the Enemy’s hands, we not only suffer the immediate loss of the Garrison, it’s cannon and Stores; but all our endeavours after that should happen, to defend the Obstructions in the River would be fruitless. To you no arguments need be used either to explain the importance of the Object, or to stimulate your Zeal for it’s preservation.
What I have here said is on the supposition that the Danger to the Salt Works which induced you to go down that way, is not so great as

to require the whole force, you may be able to get together, to guard against it—I do not mean to neglect the precautions necessary for their security; they are of too much importance; but as the Defence of Red-bank is an object of the greatest moment, I would wish you to do as much as you possibly can towards it, consistent with a proper degree of attention to the Salt-works.
If circumstances are not such as to make your presence essentially necessary there, I would wish you to command the Body of Militia you may be able to spare for Red-bank. I am Sir Your most obedt servant

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 22 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Head Quarters [Whitpain Township, Pa.] October 22d 1777
Dear Sir,

It gives me real pain to learn, that the declining state of your health, owing to your unwearied application to public business, and the situation of your private affairs oblige you to relinquish a station; though but for a time, which you have so long filled with acknowledged propriety. Motives as well of a personal as of a general concern make me to regret the necessity that forces you to retire, and to wish your absence from office may be of as short a duration as possible. In the progress of that intercourse which has necessarily subsisted between us, the manner in which you have always conducted it on your part, accompanied with every expression of politeness and regard to me, gives you a claim to my warmest acknowlegements.
I am not so well informed of the situation of affairs up the North River as to be able to give you any satisfactory advice about your route. I should rather apprehend it might be unsafe to travel that way at this time, and would recommend, if you can do it, without any material

inconvenience, to defer your journey, ’till there is some change there, or till matters have taken a more settled form. If you should however resolve to proceed immediately, and will be pleased to signify the time, you will be met by an escort of horse at Bethlehem, which will accompany you to General Putnam’s camp, where you will be furnished by another escort in the further prosecution of your journey.
I am extremely obliged to you for the tender of your services, during your intended residence at Boston; and shall always be happy when leisure and opportunity permit you to give me the pleasure of hearing from you. I have the honor to be With much regard & Respect Dear Sir Your most Obedt servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 22 October 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston Octr 22nd 1777

I am now to acknowledge the Honor of the receipt of yours of the 30th Ultimo and 8th Instant.
We have this moment receivd the agreable news of General Burgoynes Surrendering himself and Army Prisoners on the 17th Instant to General Gates, on this Happy Event I beg leave most Heartily to Congratulate your Excellency, I find by the Articles of Capitulation that Burgoynes army is to be Sent to this Vicinity I Conceive that If they are Kept near this place a Considerable Body of Troops will be necessary for Guards during their Continuance Here and Several precautions necessary if the Fleet of Transports who are to take them off are to Come into the Harbour, and wish a Signification of your pleasure thereon—I Submit to your Excellency whether it will not be Highly Expedient for One at least of the Continental Deputy, Commissaries General of Prisoners to repair this way Immediately.
Colo. Lees, Henlys and Jacksons Regts (altho weak) are on their march to Joyn your Excellency, I Imagine the former has before this Time Reached Hudsons River.
with respect to the arms reserved for the before mentioned Regiments In Obedience to your Excellencys Order Expressed in your Letter of the 23rd of may, I retained arms Sufficient for them, This I mentioned to the Board of war (to whom I make monthly returns of the Stores) in my Letter to them of the 11th of augst but finding that those

Regiments filled but Slowly, and the Demand for arms both to the northward and Southward very great, I ventured to Send three Hundred of those which I had reserved to Genl Gates upon a presing application, which if I mistake not I mentioned to your Excellency, in a former Letter, and Some Time Since Upon a Demand for a Large number to be Sent to Philadelphia Under the Care of Major Nicholas, I Sent four Hundred to him while at Springfield, Colo. Lee has drawn 200 arms Colo. Henly 60 Colo. Jackson 300, by the Commissaries return the first of this Instant there were then 512 in the Store, part of Henlys have been Delivered Since, as there are Some recruits Daily Coming in I shall retain about two Cases of the arms now in Store in order to arm them, and Send the others on Immediately, to Springfield, hoping that this State of Facts will be Satisfactory to your Excellency, I have endeavoured to pay the Utmost attention to the Service in General as far as has been in my Power.
numbers of Soldiers are returning here from the northern army, Some wounded in action others rendered Unfit for Service by reason of Causualties which have befallen them in the Service, They return with recommendations to the Corps of Invalids, The number of these is Daily Increasing, I Know not what to do with them, They shrink at the mention of repairing to the State of Pennsylvania to Joyn that Corps and Seem rather Inclined to Suffer then go so great a Distance from their friends in Such maimed Conditions, I beg leave to Submit to your Excellency whether the forming part of the Corps of Invalids in Some part of new England would not tend more to releive many of the unfortunate, and promote the Service, as the Sending of them So great a Distance.
I cannot Close without mentioning to your Excellency The State of our Provisions in Consequence of the Early and assiduous attention to this Important Object the last year—Great Benefit accrued to the Publick in the Cheapness & ampleness of the Supplies, the Large Quantities of Salted meat which were Stored in this Quarter Besides answering the ordinary Demands of the army have afforded a Seasonable relief to the northern army and the numerous militia which have assembled at Providence and thereabouts, our Stores are now in a fair way to be Soon Exhausted, and no Steps effectually taken, that I can learn to replenish them, The Season now arrived when the Beef is at the Cheapest and the Largest Quantity, Killed for Salting If the Season which lasts about Six weeks is neglected, the price will then be Enhanced, after those whose Pockets are full of money have availd themselves of the best oppertunity for their own Emolument Duty leads me to mention this to your Excellency as I am Confident the Service will be Injured if this matter is neglected.

Eight or Ten Thousand militia have assembled during this month at Providence and its vicinity, from this State Connecticut and Rhode Island for the Secret Expedition as it has been all along Called, and it has been So much of a Secret to me that I Cannot as yet learn, whether it was Set on foot by Congress, your Excellency or the Three States who furnish the men I Have Enquired of Divers members of both Houses of assembly Here who Informed me they Knew not where it originated, The Time for which the men are Engaged Expires in a few Days They will Immediately apply for Payment I beg to be Informed whether this Expence is to be Continental, and the Troops Paid off as Usual, that I may Govern my Self accordingly.


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 22 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

Sir
Head Quarters 15 Miles from Philada 22d October 1777.

I have the honor of your of the 20th inclosing a list of the Gentlemen appointed to raise Recruits and apprehend deserters in the State of Jersey. I do not recollect the Resolve of the 31st of July to which you refer, but I imagine you will find it fully explained by a Resolve passed the 17th instant, by which I am to appoint an Officer in each state to superintend the persons appointed by the State. The State is to furnish the Officer of my appointment with money from time to time which he is to distribute to the Commissioners, and draw upon Congress for the Amount. You will have Copies of this Resolve transmitted to you by the president of Congress with instructions thereon.
The Enemy evacuated Germantown two days ago and withdrew themselves within their lines round the City. They have not yet been able to make any impression upon Fort Mifflin and scarce any upon the Chevaux de frize. They yesterday morning threw a party over into Jersey at Coopers Ferry, whether with an intent to invest Red Bank or collect Cattle I do not know, but I fear the former. I have wrote pressingly to Genl Newcomb to collect as many Militia as possible, and I have also

sent an express to Genl Forman, desiring him, if he could spare any Men from protecting the Salt Works to march them to Red Bank—I dont know to what particular study Genl Burgoine will now apply himself, but he will have need of all his Philosophy to support himself in his present situation, after the many vain threats that he has uttered and bombast proclamations that he has published. I have the honor to be with great Regard Yr Excellency’s most obt.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General Silas Newcomb, 22 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Newcomb, Silas

Sir
Head Qrs [Whitpain Township, Pa.] Octob. 22: 1777

The Enemy seem determined to possess themselves, if possible, of the Forts on the River. Their Operations against Fort Mifflin have been carried on for several days with unremitted attention, and from Various accounts they mean to storm Red Bank or to invest It. For this purpose, it is confidently said, that a pretty considerable Detachment crossed the River yesterday morning. It is of infinite importance to us, to prevent them from effecting these Objects, I therefore request you to give every aid in your power to that end. If they have or attempt to invest the Fort, I hope you will be able to fall on their Rear with such a respectable number of Militia as to make them decline the project, and if that should not be the case, it may be the means of further detachments being sent from the City to their support, which will afford us perhaps a favourable Opportunity of striking a successful blow. I will not enlarge, upon the subject. You are sufficiently impressed with the importance of It, and I trust you will exert yourself to render every service you can. The earliest aid should be given. delay may bring on a loss extremely interesting in its nature and irreparable. I am Sir Yr Most Obedt sert

G. W——n

P.S. I cannot forbear observing to you, & the Inhabitants of jersey the dreadful consequences that must follow should the Enemy keep possession

of Phi[l]a., & that if they get Red Bank into their hands, a considerable force must consequently be kept there by them, to the distress & terror of those within their reach, this I hope will stimulate the Militia to a speedy & Vigorous opposition.
I must request that you do ev[er]y thing in yr Power to throw in supplies of Provision to Fort Mifflin & Red Bank, this I conceive to be a matter of the utmost importance, as the Enemy may intend to starve them out.


Title: From George Washington to Richard Peters, 22 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Peters, Richard

Sir
Head Quarters near Whitemarsh [Pa.] 22d October 1777

I am favd with yours of the 18th with a Return of our military Stores in the different States. I sincerely wish they were more numerous, but I hope the Gentlemen of the Secret Committee in whose department it falls to import these Articles, have been taking care to procure a further supply. Major Nicholas who is just returned from the Eastward informs me that a large quantity of lead has lately arrived at Boston upon private account, he, finding that lead was wanting at Springfeild, wrote to Genl Heath to have it purchased up. But for fear it may be neglected, I shall write to Genl Heath and I think the Board had better also direct the Continental Agent at Boston to secure it—I hope that the Council of this state may adopt and carry into execution any plan that the Board may point out for the collection of shoes Blankets &ca they must be had upon some terms or other and I will readily contribute any assistance that may be demanded of me.
I dont know how it would answer to make Cartouch Boxes of painted Canvas instead of leather, but I fear it would not do, as I am pretty certain that after they had been wet once or twice and a little worn that they would not turn rain. I would not wish to see a rash experiment tryed upon an accoutrement, on the goodness of which our whole safety depends. If the wood of the Cartouch Box is not intirely covered with leather, it must be made of seasoned oak or some hard wood, for I am convinced that poplar of which they are commonly made would admit water very easily.
Congress have reason to complain of my not making them General

Returns of the Army more frequently, but I hope they will excuse me when they consider that I have not been for some time past two days in a place, and I assure you it sometime happens that the Officers have not paper to make the necessary Returns. But I will take the first opportunity of making a full and regular one. I am Sir Yr most obt.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Smith, 22 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, Samuel

sir
Head Qrs [Whitpain Township, Pa.] Octr 22d 1777

your Letter of 18th Inst. I receiv’d last night wherin I find you express a desire to be recall’d from fort Mifflin to Join your Corps.
I found it Absolutely necessary to reinforce yr Garrison & that it was impracticable to do it consistently without supersedeing you, this determin’d me to send the Baron DArandt as the Person originally mention’d to you to command there, but would have omitted it (after you remain’d some time in Command) had not the additional Detachment been judged expedient for the defence of so important a Post This I mention that you may be satisfied of the real Motives in this Transaction That a desire to supersede you had no Influence in it but on the Contrary that your conduct & Exertions since the commencement of your command there, have been such as merit my Approbation & thanks—I now leave it to your own Option whether to rejoin your Corps or continue where you are, & have no doubt but you will determine upon that which in your opinion is most serviceable & consistent with the Character of an Officer.
There should be no hesitation in burning the Barrack Masters House, if it is found in the least to impede an Opposition or cover the Enemy in advance. yr

G.W.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Stewart, 22 October 1777
From: Stewart, Charles
To: Washington, George

sir
Haddonfield [N.J.] Wednesday 22d Octr 1777 11 OClock A.M.

Yesterday afternoon I left this place and went to Fort Mercer & hearing at that post about 7 OClock in the evening that the Enemy were advanced as far as this place I took back roads through the pines & tho all night & this morning ⟨illegible⟩ I am this moment arrived here,

The Enemy left this at half after 4 OClock this morning in Number I beleive about three thousand some say 4000 they have Crossed Bigg Timber Creek at a place called Clements’s Bridge and says they will this day take Fort Mercer, they give out that a second Division will cross At Coopers to day and a third to Morrow I understand their are few British Troops they have 16 pieces of Artillery I have sent to Coopers ferry if any intelligence that they bring from thence I will take the liberty to forward speedily I intend to tarry here if possible this day & near it this Night, As the Supplys going to Fort Mifflin &ca are on this Way downwards I have ordered them to halt untill the event of this day is known. I am most respect[full]y Yr Exs. most Obedt Servant.


Title: General Orders, 23 October 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Whitpain Township [Pa.] Octobr 23rd 1777
Boston.Cambridge Roxbury.

The Waggon Master General is immediately to make a return of the waggons with the army, therein shewing, particularly, the uses to which they are applied, and the divisions and brigades, in which they are employed.