Title: From George Washington to Horatio Gates, 12 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Gates, Horatio

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor 12th May 1781

                        Your favor of the 29th of April from Philada was delivered to me on the 9th Instant by Colo. Stewart. That of
                            the 15h of January from Berkely in Virginia reached me in due time. I should be sorry to think that either the public or
                            yourself should have suffered from the unaccountable delay of my letter of the 8th of October—and I should with the
                            greatest readiness set about an enquiry into the causes of it, did it appear practicable to make any discoveries after so
                            much time has elapsed.
                        Your letter of the 24th of April to the president of Congress was, as you have been informed, transmitted to
                            me with the following endorsement by the secretary "Ordered to be transmitted to the Commander in Chief" without any
                            further instructions on the matter. As that letter contained an appeal to Congress and a request that they would
                            themselves proceed upon the Enquiry which they had ordered to be held upon your Conduct, I could only, in answer, advise
                            them of the steps which had been taken to endeavour to bring it in at the southern Army, and with the Reasons which
                            operated against it at the time, and which, I suppose, from the unsettled State of affairs in that quarter, are still
                            likely to exist. I informed them, likewise, that only two modes remained of bringing the matter to an issue in a military
                            way—ordering the enquiry to be held with the southern army immediately and at all events—or taking Depositions there and
                            producing them in Evidence to a Court here.
                        I hope you are assured that nothing has been neglected on my part, which could tend to carry the orders of
                            Congress into Execution. The cause of delay hitherto you are acquainted with. No particular Charges having been lodged
                            with me, I neither had nor have I any to make. The Court, if they do meet, can only proceed upon the Resolve of the 5th of
                            October which directs in general terms—an enquiry into your conduct as Commander of the southern Army.
                        Although I have not the pleasure of being personally acquainted with Major Pinkney, I was no stranger to his
                            character before your warm recommendation of him. I cannot, without infringing a general Rule of Conduct, which has lately
                            been enforced by a Resolve of Congress, give directions for the exchange of any officer out of his turn, but I can, on
                            account of the Major’s peculiar situation, with propriety desire General Greene to interest himself in obtaining his
                            parole—This I will do, the first time I have occasion to write to him. I have the honor to be Sir Your most obt and hble
                            Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 12 May 1781
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Newburgh May 12. 1781.

                        I was at Fishkill this morning4 & from Mr Stevens’s account of provisions received from Connecticut,
                            compared with Mr Josiah Pomeroy’s, I am apprehensive your Excellency has been informed of larger quantities of salted
                            provisions being put up in the towns westward of Connecticut river than were in fact provided. By Mr Stevens’s acct it
                            appears, that from the 6th of February to the 11th inst. there have been received at Fish kill 799 1/2 barrels of beef,
                            and of pork 204 1/2 do.

                                By Mr Pomeroy’s acct there remained on the 8th instant, in the towns towards the sound

                                (as they were called in the list I inclosed to your Excellency)

                                1038 deduct Stamford (the meat being issued)

                                16.

                                Ridgefield the part forwarded

                                24

                                Reading  ditto

                                     9 1/2

                                    49 1/2

                                    988 1/2

                                1992 1/2 bbls

                                Of the quantity mentioned in the other list, viz: 660 bbls, as on hand in March, it appears by

                                Mr Stevens’s acct that all has been forwarded, except

                                    130 bbls

                                2122 1/2

                        So that the whole quantity of meat salted in the towns westward of
                            Connecticut river falls short of two & twenty hundred barrels; and of this, but about a thousand barrels remain to
                            be forwarded: for by Mr Stevens’s note at the bottom of his return (a copy of which is inclosed) it appears that he has
                            recd 64 barrels of meat from Mr Pomeroy & 64 from the assistant commissary at Danbury besides the quantities
                            mentioned in the return as Recd from the towns.
                        On this view of the matter I beg leave to inquire whether it may not be expedient to order a certain quantity
                            of the provisions raised eastward of Connecticut river and deposited at Hartford, to be brought on by the ox-teams hired
                            for the service of the army.
                        Part of the meat (I think 64 bls) Colo. Hughes started from Danbury is arrived at Fishkill, and was
                            transporting to the Landing this forenoon. A vessel lay ready to take it on board to carry to West Point.
                        This moment an express from Warwick is arrived with letters from Mr Anderson Q.M. at
                            Sussex, & Capt. Mitchell Q.M. whom I sent from hence to forward the flour from Warwick. Neither had ingaged any
                            teams to come to New Windsor. Their letters I beg leave to inclose. The bearer is an express going this night to Warwick
                            to Capt. Mitchell, with orders to offer to the nearest owners of teams what he shall judge a reasonable hire, & if
                            they will not accept it, to impress them instantly, & set some of the flour in motion to-morrow without fail.
                        My instructions to Mr Anderson stinted him to no price, tho’ I mentioned what had been given in the same
                            money by Colo. Hatch in Massachusetts, where teaming has ever been high. I urged him to engage his teams to come thro’ to
                            New Windsor, to save the time & expence of unloading storing & loading again at Warwick. The quantity of
                            flour in the four brigades mentioned in his letter, & which probably arrived there this evening, added to the 209
                            barrels mentioned by Capt. Mitchell, will make about four hundred barrels now at Warwick.
                        At Colo. Stewart’s request an active conductor was sent this afternoon to Warwick, with a letter to his
                            assistant, and orders to hurry on the provisions at that place. I have the honour to be your Excellency’s most obedt servt

                            T. Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Tallmadge, 12 May 1781
From: Tallmadge, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Wethersfield May 12th 1781

                        I have the honor to inclose your Excellency a Copy of the intelligence just recd from Cu.
                        He has not yet been able to establish the Correspondence upon the footing I pointed out, & while he
                            is endeavouring to effect this point, I shall immediately send a person from this Side (a Native of L. I.) to engage
                            another Person, entirely independent of Cu. & who lives much nigher N.Y.; if I succeed in this attempt I shall be
                            happy, & will immediately inform your Excellency. I have the Honor to be, with great Regard, Your Excellency’s
                            most Obedt Servt

                            Benja. Tallmadge

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                 May 8th 1781

                            Your favor of the 28th of April is before me & observe
                                the Contents. Agreeable to your request I immediately repaired to New York & have done
                                all that in me lay to engage a proper person, but have failed as no one will write on any
                                account. I can only obtain verbal Accounts for You & that but seldom, as the Enemy have lately been made to
                                believe that a line of intelligence is supported here. They are jealous of every Person that they may see from this
                                post. I have recd from You three English & seven French Guineas, the former have placed to your Credit, the
                                latter have returned, they being not permited to pass, & consequently are of no use to me.
                            You may now see the following intelligence. The latest Accounts from Europe say that the Dutch have not
                                declared war, against G. Britain, but as one of the neutral Powers, have refered their Situation to the Congress,
                                sitting at Petersburgh, which is looked upon here as great Wisdom, & will soon be productive of Peace. The
                                British, when I left N.Y. consisted of 7 Ships of the Line 2 of 50 & 4 of 44 Guns, & two or three
                                smaller Ships, which on their arrival landed 7 or 800 sick & wounded & have replaced them again with
                                negroes, boys, Carmen & Fishermen—Never was so warm a press in America before. Gentlemen’s
                                Servants going to Market did not escape. The Fleet have laid down Staten Island, & were to sail yesterday
                                supposed to Cruize off the Capes of Virginia. The following Regiments have embarked & are under
                                    orders for Embarkation, & Said to be bound to Virginia two Regts
                                of Anspack—the 43d & 17th Dragoons & Infantry of the same; the remainder of the 76th & 30th
                                do—The whole C. Junr says will amt to 2000 men, & not more than 4000 will be left in Garrison. It is a matter
                                of surprise that they will leave the Garrison so weak, & give reason to believe that some Troops are expected
                                from Europe, or that they are a going to make some attempt near at hand. It is reported the French
                                army are about marching westward, if they should, the Enemy will not leave N.Y. on their Expedition—I have directed
                                    Caleb Brewster to Cross again on the 17th instant. I am your &c.

                                Saml Culper

                                P.S. All hands agree that the Capt. of the Confederacy gave his Ship away. The Crew have all been
                                    taken on board the B. Fleet against their will. It is the opinion of some that 1/3d of the men
                                    on board the fleet had rather fight against them.

                                    Words in square brackets are translations of code.


Title: General Orders, 13 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Sunday May 13th 1781
                            Parole
                            Countersigns

                        A Captain a subaltern three serjeants and forty rank and file to proceed to New Windsor, and a captain a sub.
                            two serjeants and thirty rank and file to Kings ferry, tomorrow, the former to repair the roads leading from New Windsor
                            towards sussex and Ringwood the latter to repair the roads from King’s ferry towards Morristown—The officers commanding
                            these parties will receive instructions from the Quarter Master General.
                        The party going to Kings ferry will take the necessary tools from West Point the other will receive them at
                            New Windsor or Newburgh.
                        The above parties to carry their arms and forty rounds of ammunition.


Title: To George Washington from Noah Allen, 13 May 1781
From: Allen, Noah
To: Washington, George

                            West Point May 13th 1781

                        Lieutenant Darius How has Exhibited his Reasons to me for leaveing the Service and I think they are
                            Sufficient And Would Recommend him to your Excellency for a Discharge But Cannot Say but he his Wanted
                            in the Regiment.

                            Noah Allen Capt. Comdt


Title: To George Washington from Darius Howe, 13 May 1781
From: Howe, Darius
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            West Point May 13th 1781

                        I am compell’d from the distressed situation of my famely to solicit of your Excellency a discharge from the
                            Service—It is with reluctance I quit a service in which I have been deeply Engaged from the first commencment of
                            Hostilities; and nothing but the tender calls of a helpless famely could have induced me to make the request I have done.
                            I am Your Excellencies most humble & devoted servant

                            Darius Howe Lieut.


Title: To George Washington from Timothy Pickering, 13 May 1781
From: Pickering, Timothy,Knox, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            New-Windsor 13 May 1781

                        Agreable to your Excellencys orders, we have consider’d of an arrangement of Colonel Baldwins regiment of
                            artificers, and are of opinion That all the non commissioned officers & privates should form one company under the
                            direction and command of Capt. Patten and Lieut Lears Artillery Artificers at the Park, and one lieutenant to be taken
                            from said regiment, the whole to do duty at present at the Park, But if it shall appear at the opening of the Campaign,
                            that the number will be more than shall be wanted for the services of the Artillery at the Park and West point, the
                            surplus number shall be formed into a detachment for such services as your Excellency shall think proper. We are with the
                            greatest Respect Your Excellencys most obt servts

                            H. Knox Brig. Gnl Artillery
                            Tim: Pickering Q.M.G.


Title: From George Washington to Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 13 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor 13th May 1781

                        I do myself the honor to inclose your Excellency the Copy of a letter this moment recd from Count de
                            Rochambeau. I have no particulars, but I flatter myself the intelligences brought by the Viscount will
                            be agreeable. I have the honor to be with perfect Respect and Attachment Your Excellency’s Most obt and hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Alexander McDougall, 13 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: McDougall, Alexander

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor May 13th 1781

                        There being but one General Officer (a Brigadier) with the line of the Army at present; I must, for
                            particular reasons, request you will expedite your return from Philadelphia as much as possible. With great regard
                            & esteem I am Dear Sir Your Most Obedient Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Timothy Pickering, 13 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Pickering, Timothy

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor May 13th 1781

                        The quantity of salted provision in the western part of Connecticut, being by your representation much less
                            than was expected, it will certainly be expedient to bring forward that from Hartford, by the hired Teams, which you will
                            be pleased to order accordingly. I am &c.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 13 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor 13th May 1781

                        I have this morning received your Excellency’s favor of the 8th. Give me leave most sincerely to congratulate
                            you on the safe return of the Viscount de Rochambeau, who I hope is the Bearer of agreeable intelligences. A Copy of your
                            letter has been instantly transmitted to His Excellency the Minister at Philadelphia.
                        I will meet your Excellency at Weathersfield, at any time which you shall be pleased to appoint.
                        I have no further accounts from New York since my letter of the 11th except what is brought by two Deserters,
                            who speak confidently of a detachment from the Army having sailed last Week but they know nothing respecting the Fleet. I
                            have the honor to be with very great Regard Yr Excellency’s Most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 14 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Monday May 14th 1781
                            Parole.
                            Countersigns.

                        All the Non commissioned officers and privates of Colonel Baldwin’s regiment of Artificers except the sadlers
                            and shoemakers, are to be sent to the Park of Artillery and put under the command of Captain Patten—The Sadlers and
                            Shoemakers are to remain at Fishkill ’till further orders under the direction of the deputy Quarter Master General at that
                            Post.


Title: To George Washington from Ephraim Blaine, 14 May 1781
From: Blaine, Ephraim
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philada 14 May 1781

                        I have return’d some days from Maryld: and the Delaware State and find the Supplies procured for Public use
                            very triffling and that the State Contractors have done but little—I could not obtain permission to seize private
                            property, indeed the Governor & Council had not the power of giving it, altho a very large quantity of Flour and
                            an immensity of Indian Corn might have been procured—the Flour cheifly in the hands of Millers and Speculators—All the
                            Provisions upon the Eastern shore I have Order’d to be collected at the Head of Chester from whence it’s to be transported
                            to Duck-Creek Landing where Craft are waiting to take it in—The whole Eastern shore Supplies now purchased will not exceed
                            twelve hundred barrels of Flour and two hundred and fifty Barrels of Beef and Pork—those of the Western shore are more
                            considerable and I have given Directions to have them collected as near to George Town as will Admit of safety.
                        The State of Delaware have done little in the purchase of Flour, and have procured no Meat altho great Things
                            are in their power—had the Assembly laid the Millers under small Contribution they might have had all their
                            Quoto of Flour procured and delivered into the Public Magazines some time ago—I have collected from the
                            Agents in that State six hundred Barrels of Flour and eight thousand Bushels of Corn which will all be at Trenton in a few
                            Days provided no accident happens in the Bay.
                        There are little or no Magazines in this State—the Governor and Council have
                                furnished their Commissioners with large Sums of Money to expedite their purchases of Flour (which
                            is very plenty) but the Villainy which prevails in this City amongst the Mercantile and speculating Interest, and the
                            measures daily pursued by the disaffected People in the Barter of hard Money, Counteracts every Public Measure and has
                            depreciated and ruined the Circulation of all paper Currency, indeed the Contractors can buy nothing, and no person can
                            subsist in this place without hard Money to procure the Necessaries of Life—this has induced the
                            Council to call a special Meeting of the Assembly on the 24th Instant to endeavour to adopt some certain plan to procure
                            the Supplies acquired, and comply with other public Demands.
                        The Board of War have ordered me to proceed to York Town and see that proper Provision is made to supply
                            General Waynes Detachment from that place to Fredericksburgh—I have procured a pipe of Wine and some
                            necessaries for Your Excellency & Family which shall be forwarded in two Days from this place.
                        Upon my Return from York Town shall give your Excellency every further information in my power respecting
                            Supplies. I have the Honor to be with every sentimt of Esteem & Regard Your Excellencies Most Obedient &
                            most Humble Servant

                            Eph. Blaine C.G.P.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Carleton, 14 May 1781
From: Carleton, Joseph
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            War Office May 14th 1781

                        The Board have the honor to transmit your Excellency copy of a Letter from Major General Green of the 2d
                            Ultimo, enclosing the representations of the North and south Carolina Officers respecting their Uniforms, which they beg
                            leave to submit to your Excellencys decision, who have only the power of fixing the Uniform of the Army. I have the Honor
                            to be with the highest respect Your Excellencys Most Obedt Hble Servt

                            Jos: Carleton Secy


Title: From George Washington to Charles-René-Dominique Sochet Destouches, 14 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Destouches, Charles-René-Dominique Sochet

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor 14th May 1781.

                        I have been honored with your favor of the 10th announcing the arrival of the Count de Barras to take the
                            command of His Majesty’s Fleet. You judge very rightly in supposing that the term of your command will not be looked upon
                            as mispent—You may be assured, Sir, that America will ever retain the most grateful remembrance of the exertions you have
                            made in her behalf—As to myself, I shall ever be happy in oppertunities of testifying the high sense I entertain of your
                            merit & with how much Esteem. I am yr most obt and very hble Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 14 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de

                        sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor 14th May 1781.

                        I had yesterday the honor of receiving your Excellency’s favor of the 7th accompanied by the Copy of one
                            which you had written to the Chevalier des Touche. As I very much approve the plan which you therein recommend, I
                            permitted the original and the packet for the Count de Rochambeau to go forward.
                        I last night received dispatches from the Count de Rochambeau and the Count de Barras, who is come over to
                            take the command of the Fleet at Rhode Island. They request an interview with me as soon as possible, and I have appointed
                            Monday the 21st of this Month at Weathersfield near Hartford.
                        I forward to your Excellency, by this Express, a large packet which came in the Concord, and I have taken the
                            liberty to address one which is for the Marquis de la Fayette to your care. As the dispatches are probably of consequence,
                            and it is somewhat uncertain where the Marquis will be, I shall be much obliged to your Excellency for causing a Man of
                            integrity to be hired for the purpose of carrying and delivering them himself. I have the honor to be with the greatest
                            Respect Your Excellency’s Most obt and humble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from John Paterson, 14 May 1781
From: Paterson, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            West Point May 14th 1781

                        I have to inform your Excellency that, from Intelligence receiv’d but this moment from Colo. Scammell, the
                            Enemy are out in force on this Side Croton, it is reported several Thousand, Capt. Hughes of the Rh. Island Regt was
                            pursued by them, Colo. Scammell with the N. Hamp. Line has march’d—I shall immediately send to the Connecticut Line to
                            hold themselves in readiness to march at a moments warning. I wait your Excellency’s Orders on the Occasion. I am Yr
                            Excellency’s Most Obedt Servt

                            John Paterson


Title: From George Washington to John Paterson, 14 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Paterson, John

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor May 14th 1781

                        I have recd yours of this day—Should the Enemy still be out, you will instantly put the Connecticut line in
                            motion, with Orders to reinforce the Corps under Colonel Scammell. The Troops must all be held in the most perfect
                            readiness for action, and the Quarter Guards be instructed to use the greatest vigilance. Every effort will be necessary to
                            gain early, regular, & constant intelligence of the Enemys numbers, motions & designs, which you will be
                            pleased to communicate to me.
                        Should anything material happen, I shall wish to be informed immediately—& even, ’tho nothing of
                            consequence should take place you will please to let me hear from you by the Morng. I am &c.


Title: From Tench Tilghman to Timothy Pickering, 14 May 1781
From: Tilghman, Tench
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Dear SirHead Quarters 14th May 1781.

                        His Excellency has given no particular orders for any surveying just at this time and therefore if it is not
                            a peice of Work which Mr De Wit thinks indispensably necessary he had better delay it. The Old money in the Chest when
                            brought down by the scale of depreciation amounts in a manner to nothing and is wanted for continjent Expences just at
                            this time. I am yr most obt Servt

                            Tench Tilghman A.D.C.


Title: From George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 14 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor 14th May 1781

                        I last night had the honor of receiving your Excellency’s favor of the 11th. As you request me to name the
                            time of meeting, I appoint Monday the 21st of this month at Weathersfeild which I think is as soon as will be possible for
                            you, with convenience. General Knox and General du portail will accompany me. I will endeavour to be at Weathersfeild on
                            saturday afternoon myself, and have made choice of this town in preference to Hartford because the latter will be occupied
                            by the Assembly of the State which is now sitting.
                        I forward the packets for His Excellency the Chevalier de la Luzerne by Express, and inform him of the time
                            and place of our intended interview; but I do not imagine it will be possible for him to be present at it.
                        I shall very impatiently wait the pleasure of meeting your Excellency and the Count de Barras. I have the
                            honor to be Your Excellency’s Most obedt and very humble servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Philip John Schuyler, 14 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Schuyler, Philip John

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor May 14th 1781

                        The Letter which you did me the favor to write on the 4th instant has been duly received. I am glad to find
                            that you have received the necessary papers, & are entering upon the measures for intercepting the Enemy’s
                            communications—I hope you will be enabled by the assistance of the person proposed (if he is found sufficiently faithful
                            & intelligent) to prosecute those measures to good effect; because I think the intelligence obtained thro’ that
                            channel may be depended upon, & will eventually be of very great consequence to us. Much, I apprehend, is to be
                            dreaded from the predatory incursions of the Enemy this Campaign—to be apprised of their designs, and guarded against
                            them, at all points, as far as possible, will tend most essentially to disconcert their Plans & protect our
                            Frontiers.
                        As to the disposition of the Vermontese, I know nothing of it, but from general discription—at present, they
                            are at least, a dead weight upon us—it is greatly to be regretted they are not, by some means or another, added to our
                            scale; as their numbers, strength, & resources, would certainly preponderate very considerably, and make the Enemy
                            extremely cautious how they advanced far in that quarter. The bulk of the People, I am persuaded, must be well affected;
                            should it be otherwise with any of the individuals, I ardently wish they may be detected in their vilainy, &
                            brought to the punishment they deserve.
                        I have been exceedingly distressed, by the repeated accounts I have received of the sufferings of the Troops
                            on the frontier, & the terrible consequences, which must ensue unless they were speedily supplied—What gave a
                            particular poignancy to the sting, I felt on the occasion, was my inability to afford relief. Such partial Supplies however as were on hand, to the very last Barrel of Meat, I ordered instantly to be sent, and have promised General Clinton,
                            what further succour, the States will enable me to give. Major General Heath hath gone to the several Eastern States, to
                            enforce my pointed representations—rouse them to more vigorous exertions, & to make arrangements for supplies
                            during the whole Campaign, I cannot but hope this measure, will be attended with success. I am Dr Sr.


Title: To George Washington from Philip John Schuyler, 14 May 1781
From: Schuyler, Philip John
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Saratoga May 14th 1781

                        Fish and Harris were with me on the 11th the latter repeated every word of the Information heretofore said to
                            be given by him and added that on the 10th in the afternoon he saw and conversed with a Certain Thomas Sherwood formerly
                            of Kingsbury but now of Canada, who Informed him that he and eight others had come from the Shipping at Crown point, had
                            landed in South bay where they had left their boat, That their business was to conduct some of the Inhabitants of
                            Kingsbury Queensbury & Argyle to Canada—That a number of Batteaus & a considerable quantity of provisions
                            had been brought to St Johns, that a body of troops were to Cross the Lakes, but believed they would not march far into
                            the Country until hostilities should be commenced between the state of New York and Vermont, which It was believed in
                            Canada would take place, assoon as the Vermontese had engaged the people as far west as Hudsons River to Join them. Harris
                            appears to be Sincere, he is sensible and has promissed to observe some instructions I have given him in order to gain the
                            perfect Confidence of the Enemy and to obtain from them the Charge of Conveying their dispatches. He can bring full proof
                            of Corporal Schr Villany, but If we make use of It Harris’s Character must be known to the Enemy.
                        The person I dispatched to Crown point did not return until yesterday Inclose your Excellency copy of the
                            Information he has Obtained.
                        I have taken the liberty to Inclose this unsealed to His Excellency Governor Clinton for his Information, I
                            am Dear Sir with perfect respect & very affectionately Your Excellencys most Obedient Servant

                            Ph. Schuyler

                     Enclosure

                                Information given by    on Sunday 13th May 1781

                            Arrived at Crown point on Saturday the 5th Instant, found at the point a Liut.
                                & about twenty five british, Capt. Sherwood and about thirty tories, & Six Indians,
                                about a mile from the point lay two square rigged vessels—Informed the officer that I wanted to see Commodore Lutwick,
                                answered he was not come up, that Capt: Bagley or Baily Commanded the Snow, went on board with the officer, the mate
                                & several of the men knew me, The Captain ordered me victuals & Drink, asked what news I related as
                                Instructed—what troops the rebels had at Fort Edward, answered none, that at Saratoga they had about 300 continentals
                                that a body of new raised men I suppose 1000 or 1500 were daily expected and that then they were to march farther
                                northward—Question are you sure that 1000 or 1500 more will come up Hudsons river than what are at Saratoga—Yes very
                                sure several loyalists have seen the greater part of them—Question, Why, do the rebels expect an army from Canada—Yes
                                it is a prevailing report all thro the Country and the rebels are preparing for them we have also heard from Some
                                persons from Canada that the army would come and It is my principle business here to know the truth of It, and how we
                                shall conduct ourselves—well you may Inform your friends that an army will Cross the Lakes early in the month of
                                June—how Strong—about two thousand Regular troops 7 or 800 Tories and four hundred Indians all
                                under the Command of General Powell—will the army go down Hudsons river—I don’t know—I fear such an army is not strong
                                enough, for the rebels in the province of New York will Soon be Joined by those from the Eastward,
                                and allen and his Crew will also Join them,  beleive me he and the York Rebels are at
                                variance—where is General Washington—where The French, I informed them—they Enquired how we were of for provisions I
                                answered them truly with respect to the northern & western ports, as they could Easily have
                                detected , but Informed them that Gel Washington had plenty.
                            This is all that was meterial, I left the post on Sunday in Company with William
                                Bristien & John Croswell who are now with their families the one at Palmer town the other in
                                Argyll.


Title: From George Washington to William Stephens Smith, 14 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Smith, William Stephens

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor May 14th 1781

                        I have received your favor of the 22nd of April.
                        Having been informed that Colonel Vose wished to return to the Northward, Colonel Tupper was ordered to
                            relieve him previous to the receipt of Your Letter—Nothwithstanding the Marquis had suggested that your being appointed
                            to that Command would be exceedingly agreeable to the Regt. I did not think it could possibly be done, without involving
                            very great inconveniencies, because in that case, there would have been ten Companies from the Massachusetts Line &
                            not a single Feild Officer from that State. I am Dr Sr with great regard.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Jr., 14 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.

                            D. Sir
                            New Windsor 14th May 1781

                        In answer to your favor of the 10th, which came to my hands last night, I have to assure you, that your
                            joining my family in the first part of June will be very convent for me, and that I shall be happy in the event. With
                            very great esteem & regard—I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Philip Van Rensselaer, 14 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Van Rensselaer, Philip

                        Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor 14th May 1781

                        Perceiving by your return of the 1st Inst. that there was no Ammunition in the Store at Albany I have
                            directed General Knox to send up ten Barrels of Powder and one thousand pounds of Lead. Both of these have become very
                            scarce Articles and therefore require the utmost Oeconomy in their expenditure. I do not know upon what orders you have
                            heretofore been used to issue, but in future you will be pleased to observe that no stores are to be delivered but upon my
                            own or the order of the Continental officer commanding at the Northward. I have written to Genl Clinton upon the subject.
                            I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Philemon Dickinson, 15 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Dickinson, Philemon

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor 15th May 1781

                        You may be assured that nothing would give me greater pleasure than to interest myself in a matter which
                            concerned you or your friend, could I do it with propriety, but, unfortunately, the request which you make cannot, from
                            the present circumstances of Affairs, be complied with by me. As I have never had the least correspondence with Don Galvez
                            or any of the spanish Commanders, except a complimentary letter from the Governor of the Havannah, you will readily
                            perceive that it would appear strange should I interfere in a measure of the kind you mention, I however think the thing
                            of serious importance to individuals who are friendly to the interests of the United States, but who may have invested
                            property in the Floridas previous to the Rupture with Great Britain, and I have no doubt but could the matter be properly
                            stated to His Excellency the Minister of France and those individuals pointed out, He would concert Means with the spanish
                            Commanders to grant indulginces if not perfectly secure the Estates of just persons should those Governments fall to the
                            spanish arms. I am with very great Esteem Dear Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 15 May 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General,
                            Hartford May 15. 1781.

                        I arrived here yesterday afternoon, found the General Assembly sitting, presented your letter to Governor
                            Trumbull, together with a representation containing the spirit of my instructions. This morning I attended the Governor,
                            Council and the Representatives in Council-Chamber—when the papers were read, and I had an opportunity to speak on them—The papers were committed to a Committee of both houses. I have the pleasure to acquaint your Excellency, they had that
                            attention pai’d them which their interesting importance required—A resolution has passed to send on
                            immediately one hundred and sixty head of beef-cattle, which it is supposed will amount to five thousand rations per day
                            to the first of June—One thousand barrels of salted meat is also to be forwarded with the greatest dispatch—with a
                            quantity of rum—There is about a thousand barrels of salted meat deposited in this town—it has been repacked, and is well
                            stored. I shall endeavour in the morning to obtain a return of the whole quantity which has been procured in this
                            state—believe an accurate return has never been given in of the whole.
                        An addition is made to the Committee of both Houses, who are to proceed to the consideration of the great
                            Supply for the campaign. Their resolutions on this head, I think, will equall your expectations. I have
                            sent an express to Mr Phelps to forward all the beef-cattle he can command without a moments Delay. Shall proceed to Rhode
                            Island to morrow. I have the honor to be With the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant

                            W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Jedediah Huntington, 15 May 1781
From: Huntington, Jedediah
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir,
                            Norwich May 15 1781

                        your Favour of the 8th was handed me yesterday. I hope to join the Army next Week—a Gentlemen out of N. York
                            says it is believed there that the English grand Fleet on their Passage to Gibraltar had met the combined Fleet and
                            returned without engaging. I am with the highest Esteem, your Excellencys most obedient servant

                            J. Huntington


Title: From George Washington to John Paul Jones, 15 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Jones, John Paul

                            SirHead Quarters New Windsor 15th May 1781

                        My partial acquaintance with either our naval or commercial affairs makes it altogether impossible for me to
                            account for the unfortunate delay of those Articles of Military Stores and Cloathing which I have been informed have been
                            so long provided in France. Had I have had any particular reason to have suspected you of being accessory to that delay,
                            which I assure you has not been the case, my suspicions would have been removed by the very full & satisfactory
                            answers which you have, to the best of my judgment, made to the questions proposed to you by the Board of Admiralty, and
                            upon which, that Board have, in their report to Congress, testified the high sense which they entertain of your Merits and
                            services.
                        Whether our Naval Affairs have in general been well or ill conducted would be presumptuous in me to
                            determine. Instances of bravery and good conduct in several of our officers have not however been wanting, delicacy
                            forbids me to mention that particular one which has attracted the admiration of all the World and which has influenced the
                            Most illustrious Monarch to confer a mark of his favor, which can only be attained by a long and honorable service, or by
                            the performance of some brilliant Action.
                        That you may long enjoy the reputation you have so justly acquired is the sincere Wish of Sir Yr most obt and
                            very hble Servt.


Title: From George Washington to John Paterson, 15 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Paterson, John

                        Dear Sir

                            Head Quarters New Windsor May 15th 1781

                        Your favor of this Morning with the enclosures, is just received.
                        You will be pleased immediately to order a Detachment of 200 Men properly Officered, to fall down by Water to
                            Kings Ferry, & to Move as expeditiously as possible to cover the Country & to support the Garrison of the
                            Block House at Dobbs Ferry; if the Enemy should appear to have any serious designs against it.
                        It will be well to give advice of this Movement to the Commanding Officer of the Water Guards instantly, with
                            direction for him to communicate with the Commanding Officer of the Detachmt, and to inform you, by
                            the most rapid conveyance, of any thing important that may happen. I am Dr Sr.


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 15 May 1781
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Monsieur
                            à New-port Le 15 may 1781.

                        J’ai reçu la Lettre de votre Excellence du 11. de ce mois, le raport du nombre de Vaisseaux de L’escadre
                            ennemie me paroit juste et confirmé tant par la correspondance du major Talmadge que par le raport des prisonniers d’un
                            flag, ils ont 9. gros Vaisseaux, 2 de 50. et 4. de 44. avec les fregates, l’embarquement n’est que de 2. mille hommes; et il Specifie les regimens. Je crois que leur destination qu’ils publient pour
                            Vilmington est la Veritable à cause des dragons et chevaux embarqués, parce qu’il me paroit difficile de faire mouvoir des
                            dragons en virginie à moins du projet de La delaware dont il avoit été question, mais votre Excellence est plus en état
                            que moi de juger la possibilité de leurs affaires.
                        Il est question dans mes instructions de Six millions Tournois dont votre Excellence pourra se prevaloir en
                            france pour fournir aux besoins et à l’entretien de L’armée ameriquaine, mais le chevalier de La
                            Luzerne Sera Sans doute chargé de vous annoncer ces Secours officiellement. j’attends la reponse de Votre Excellence pour
                            la conference que Mr le Cte de Barras et moi vous avons demandé
                        Je Suis avec Respect &a.


Title: From George Washington to François Barbé de Marbois, 16 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Barbé de Marbois, François

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 16 May 1781.

                        I inclose you the Certificate of Colonel La Radieres services which you requested some time ago. I have but
                            lately been furnished with an account of the different Ranks which he bore, which has occasioned the delay. I have the
                            honor to be with very great Esteem Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Board of War, 16 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

                            Gentlemen
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 16th May 1781.

                        I have been honored with your favors of the 2d and 8th Inst. The first did not reach me till yesterday. I
                            have immediately made application to Sir Henry Clinton for permission to send Tobacco to Charles Town, but I apprehend it
                            will not be granted, as I think a request of a similar nature has been heretofore refused.
                        Inclosed you have some additions to the arrangements of the Penna line—They have been transmitted to me by
                            Brig. Genl Wayne. I have the honor to be &c.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Clinton, 16 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Clinton, Henry

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 16th May 1781

                        I am directed to enquire whether permission will be granted to ship 600 Hhds of Tobacco from the States of
                            Virginia and Maryland to Charles Town in South Carolina, to be there sold, and the proceeds applied to the support of the
                            American prisoners of War.
                        Should this proposition meet your Excellency’s approbation, I will transmit the names of the Vessels and
                            Masters and apply to you for the necessary passports or it may perhaps be equally convenient to give directions to Major
                            General Phillips or the Officer commanding His Britannic Majestys forces in Virginia to grant the passports there. I have
                            the Honor to be Your Excellency’s Most obedt and hble Servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from James Clinton, 16 May 1781
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Albany May 16th 1781

                        This morning I received a number of Letters from Fort Schuyler and Saratoga, the former containing the
                            disagreeable Account of the Loss of the Barracks by Fire—the latter anouncing the appearance of the Enemy on the
                            Frontier. My Letters to Cols. Courtlandt & Cochran, copies of which I enclose, will inform your Excellency of the
                            Measures I have taken on this Occasion, and while I hope they may meet your approbation, I would intreat your further
                            Directions in my present critical Situation. I have written to the Governor and requested him to wait on you, and as he is
                            intimately acquainted with every Circumstance in this Department, he will be able to give you any farther Information you
                            may desire, and thereby enable your Excellency to adopt such Measures as may appear most proper.
                        Amunition is much wanted, I would intreat that a Supply may be sent on without loss of time. Provision is
                            very scarce and our Expectations very slender—I have sent Mr Gamble to the Eastward to procure Beef if
                            possible, and if this Department can furnish Flours, I am determined not to want. I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s
                            most obedient

                            James Clinton

                     Enclosure

                                    12 May 1781

                            At a Council of officers in Garrison at Fort schuyler held on Saturday the 12th of May one thousand
                                Seven hundred and Eighty one to inspect and examine the works of said Garrison.
                            Officers Present
                            of the 2nd New York Regiment Leiut. Cole. Cochran Commandr.
                            Capt: Hamtramck
                            ---—Fowler
                            Leiut. Hovenburgh
                            ----—Deniston
                            Ensign Woodruff
                            ----—Dodge

                            of the Artillery
                            Capt: Moodie
                            Leiut. Brewster

                            Report 1stly that after having personally Examined the Fortification of this Garrison do find more than
                                two thirds of the works broken down Occasioned by the late heavy rains, and assure that the
                                remaining will be in the same condition in a few days.
                            2d that the only remaining strength is the outside Piquets on the Glacis.
                            3d that an attempt to repair the works cannot be made with the small number of men now in Garrison, being
                                Obliged to begin at the foundation and thereby open the remaining part of the works which would prove very dangerous
                                in Case of attack as no less than five or six hundred men under the direction of an Engineer, with a sufficient number
                                of artificers, Waggons, Tools &c. would repair it in the course of the Summer. Sign’d by order of the Council

                                Robert Cochran Lt Colol

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Fort Schuyler May 13 1781

                            Since I wrote you last, the Spring rains have almost ruined the Works of this Garrison. Anxious to do
                                every thing in my powers, and to justify myself, I called the Officers in Garrison together in Council to advise what
                                was best to be done, the Results of which I enclose you. I have put the Garrison on half Allowance of Beef and added
                                to each ration one Quarter of a pound of flour. The Genl will doubtless conceive that it is much harder for Men to be
                                cut short of their Allowance at this post than almost any Post on the Continent, as there is nothing to be got but
                                what they draw from the public Store. I am &c.

                                Robt Cochran

                     Enclosure

                                Dear sirFort schuyler May 14th 1781 3 oClock P.M.

                            I am sorry to inform you that this day between the Hours of eleven and Twelve this Garrison took fire and
                                Consumed every Barrack notwithstanding every exertion was made to extinguish the flames—I still remain in possession
                                of the Works and have saved the Magazine with a Small part of the provisions, tho’ as the risque of our lives in my
                                next shall give you every Particular. I am &c.

                                Robert Cochran

                     Enclosure

                            Dear Sir

                                Saratoga Tuesday evening 15 May 1781 10 oClock

                            Colo. Louis is just now arrived here with two other Indians he has been hunting on the west side of the
                                North branch of Hudsons River with seven other Indians one whereof was a Caughnawaga who left them on sunday morning
                                on Monday morning having heard some firing he and his party marched to discover who fired—after a few miles march they
                                were fired upon by a party of the Enemy and lost one man an Onida who is either killed or made prisoner—Some of his
                                party are gone to Schonectady—he does not know either the strength of the Enemy or what rout they intend to pursue; he
                                fell in with them on the road Sir John Johnston came last year to Johnstown about 38 Miles from this place, believes
                                they are a large  by their firing and transactions and that they will very speedily attack some place either on this or the
                                Mohawk River, I think assistance should be sent both ways and Scouts dispatched without delay from
                                schonectady—Colo. Van Dyck has already sent a party out towards Palmer Town—no Provisions are yet
                                arrived here. I am &c.

                                Ph: Schuyler

                     Enclosure

                                Dear Sir
                                Albany May 16. 1781

                            I this moment received the disagreeable intelligence that the Barracks at Fort Schuyler were
                                unfortunately consumed by fire on the 14th Inst. between 11 & 12 oClock in the forenoon and that the works
                                &c. were almost ruined by the late heavy rains—as I am at a loss how to act in this case untill I receive his
                                Excellencys Directions—I think it best that the Mortar & Cannon and Military Stores should be left at Fort
                                Herkermer as it will be easy to have these transported either up or down the River as occasion my require.
                            You will proceed with the provisions to the Garrison and afford them every assistance in your power which
                                time and Circumstances will admit—after which you will return with the Boat leaving the different Corps their
                                respective Stations where they will rest untill farther orders.
                            If the Levies should be ordered by Colo. Willett to take post on the Mohawk River then
                                Van Deburgh’s Company will man the Boats and bring them to schonectady as Another Escort must go up in a short time.
                                You will be very cautious on your  as by a Letter just received from Genl Schuyler I find
                                there is a Body of Enemy out.

                                James Clinton

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Albany May 16th 1781

                            I have just now recieved your favor of the 13 & 14th Insts. with the disagreeable intelligances
                                contained therein—I cannot find words to express my surprise at the unexpected accident or how a fire should break
                                out in the middle of noon day in a Garrison where the Troops Could not possibly be absent after a most violent and
                                incessant rain of several days and be permited to do so much damage—I am sorry to say that the several circumstances
                                which accompanied this melancholy affair affords plausible ground for suspicion that it was not the Effect of mere
                                accident. I hope when it comes to be examined in a Clear point of view such light may be thrown upon it as will remove
                                the suspicion for which there appears too much reasons.
                            I have written to his Excellency on the subject and requested his farther orders which I expect in a few
                                days in the mean time I would request that you keep possession of the works, and endeavour to shelter the Troops in
                                the best manner possible, that you collect all the Nails Hinges &c. &c. of the ruins and Suffer nothing
                                to be lost that is in your power to save—Colo. Cortlandt has my orders to afford you all the assistance in his power
                                which time and circumstances will admit.

                                James Clinton

                                P.S. It is best that you send all the Women & Children.


Title: To George Washington from Elias Dayton, 16 May 1781
From: Dayton, Elias
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Chatham May 16th 1781

                        In my last I informed your Excellency that the British fleet had sailed the 8th Inst. I have since discovered
                            that the mistake took its’ rise from the circumstance of a great part of it having fallen down below the watering place on
                            that day. I would now acquaint your Excellency that the fleet really sailed on Sunday, convoyed by six ships of the line.
                            Their delay thus long has I imagine been occasioned by one of their largest ships striking upon the shoals near the West
                            bank which was got off with great difficulty. The transports which sailed amounted to about twenty—the number of troops
                            does not exceed 2000 nor do I think it much less—All reports appear to confine their destination to Virginia and then
                            Delaware.
                        One ship of the line with three or four frigates only are left in York harbour—twenty five transports set
                            for sea & entirely empty are at anchor in the North river stream. I am told, there are not 300 men in the city
                            & those principally Highlanders.
                        I have not yet been able to gain the desired interview. I am your Excellency’s Most Obedient Hbl Servent

                            Elias Dayton


Title: To George Washington from Nathanael Greene, 16 May 1781
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

                        Sir

                            Camp at Ancrams Plantation on the Congaree May 16th 1781

                        The Post at this place surrendered to the advance of our Army under Lieut. Colo. See on the 15th the
                            particulars are transmitted to Congress; and as I have not a moments time to lose being anxious to push for ninety six as
                            soon as possible, I must beg leave to refer your Excellency to my letters to Congress.
                        I am in distress and our Affairs are in the most critical situation the Cause I will explain hereafter.
                        Lord Cornwallis is moving northerly. I hope to God our affairs may not be reduced to extremity in Virginia.
                            With the highest respect I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s most Obedient Humble Servant

                            Nath. Greene


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Jones, 16 May 1781
From: Jones, Joseph
To: Washington, George

                            Dr Sr
                            Philaa 16th May 1781

                        Having returned to Congress a few days only and private matters requiring my attention for great part of the
                            time I have not been able regularly to attend to Business or to acknowledge the receipt of your favour transmitted to
                            Philadelphia after my leaving it and sent after me to Virginia by Mr Madison. The moment for successfull operations agt
                            our Enemies was certainly immediately after the disaster in Gardners Bay when had it been embraced the Port at Portsmouth
                            and the Troops under Arnold as well as the British Ships then in Virginia must have fallen an easy conquest to our united
                            efforts for which purpose the state was I believe in readiness. Abortive as the project has proven we yet hope for the
                            best and that still it may be in the Power of our Ally to give us effectual aid in Chesapeake and believe me at no time
                            was it more necessary then at present when all the lower Country of our state from its great navigable waters are exposed
                            to the ravage and rapine not only of British Ships of War but of vessels employed by the Board of Refugee Commissioners in
                            New York. To you it is unnecessary to describe the distress of the inhabitants upon the Navigable waters of Virginia—your
                            knowledge of the Country enables you sufficiently to judge of it exclusive of such informations as I doubt not you receive
                            from that quarter. Had we a sufficient stock of Arms distressing as it is to our Militia to be so generally out on Duty as
                            it must be to them at this season of the year, I think they wod do much in opposition to the Enemy
                            supported even by no considerable Body of Regulars but wanting arms, their Negroes flying from them and their prospects of
                            making little or nothing from their Estates to support their families and bear the burdens of the war
                            may shake their fidelity and attachment to the cause so far as to slacken their exertions if some succor is not afforded
                            them by water to restrain the Ravage of these plunderers. I mention these things as facts falling under my own observation
                            before I left the State that if they have not been more particularly communicated by others you might have some intimation
                            of them. The late movements of Cornwallis and Philips indicate a junction of their Armies on the Roanoke from whence they
                            may direct their operations North or South as they shall see best without the fear of successfull opposition, or may, it
                            wod seem, cut off all communication between Virga and the other Southern States and reduce Genl Greene
                            to the greatest extremity. From these dangers that at present threaten us a Naval Force sent to the Chesapeake wod at once
                            relieve us and admit Virga to afford that succor to the southern States they so much need—The great object of the enemy is
                            undoubtedly the southern states and it is submitted to your reflection how far you can support them by
                            your influence in the destination of such aids as may arrive from Europe or the operation of that Force now here. We are
                            told all the Ships of war have left New York with abt 2000 Troops after having once put back. Adieu pardon the haste of
                            this Letter wch is written in Congress in consequence of the Presidents information an Express was going off for Head
                            Quarters. Yr aff. Sert

                            Jos: Jones


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Lawrence, Jr., 16 May 1781
From: Lawrence, Jonathan, Jr.
To: Washington, George

                            May it please Your ExcellencyRockland May 16th 1781

                        I have just returnd here from the Lines of the Militia at the Liberty Pole,the Enemy (Refugees) occupy the
                            Ground at Fort Lee where they are Errecting a Block House and other works, I was Yesterday sent a Flag by the Commanding
                            Officer of the Militia to Capt. Ward Commanding the Refugees respecting some wounded and prisoners. I had an opportunity
                            of Conversing very freely with him on the Subject of his desertion (he having been a Serjt in Colo. Malcoms Regt) and
                            taking Arms against his Countrymen he assured me he wishd for nothing more than to return to his Countrymen provided Your
                            Excellency would Grant him a full & free pardon and that he should not be Considerd a Soldier in the Army, unless he chose
                            to reingage, on which Condition he would bring off with him 200 of his Men or agree with me on the next Wednesday in what
                            manner, the whole party should be taken, I promised him to write your Excellency on the Subject, provided Your Excellency
                            will agree to his proposals I should be happy a flag would be granted to meet him in the English Neighbourhood on
                            that day. I shall make it a point Immediately to Acquaint you of the Conversation and the Terms on which he shall agree. I
                            have the honour to subscribe myself Your Excellencys Mst Obedt Hume Servnt

                            J. Lawrence Junr Capt. N.Y. State Levis

                            he has proposed to me that he will retard the Works as much as possible untill he shall see me.


Title: To George Washington from Anne-César, chevalier de La Luzerne, 16 May 1781
From: La Luzerne, Anne-César, chevalier de
To: Washington, George

                            Monsieur,
                            A Philade le 16. mai 1781.

                        Je prens la Liberté de vous adresser une Lettre pour Mr Destouches relative aux approvisionement de la
                            colonie de S. Domingue. Je vous prie de vouloir bien la lui faire parvenir aussitot qu’il Sera possible. Je suis avec
                            respect, Monsieur, de Votre Excellence le très humble et trés obeissant serviteur

                            le chr de la luzerne

                            Les gazettes ci jointes contiennent quelques nouvelles venues par un batiment recement arrivé
                            d’Europe.


Title: From George Washington to John Paterson, 16 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Paterson, John

                            Dr Sr
                            Hd Qrs New Windsor May 16 1781

                        Since my return from the Point I am favored with yours—I think it will be expedient for Col. Badlam to
                            remain in his present position, until the state of the Enemy is more throughly ascertained, from below. With great regard I
                            am Dr Sr Your Hble Servant

                            P.S. Please to send up the Deserter.


Title: From George Washington to Abraham Skinner, 16 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Skinner, Abraham

                            Sir
                            Hd Qrs New Windsor May 16th 1781

                        You will give permission to John Shaddon, Elijah Williams, Edward Bugbee, Abraham Lent, Willm Ryer, &
                            Nathaniel Conckling, (who were taken Prisoners when Genl Parsons was at West Chester last Winter) to go within the Enemy’s
                            Lines, on their Paroles to return when called for. I am Sir Your Humble Servant.


Title: From George Washington to Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von] Steuben, 16 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von]

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 16 May 1781.

                        I have received your favor of the 21st of April, and by your letters of a later date, which I have seen
                            published, I am informed of the progress of the Enemy as far as petersburgh. It gave me pleasure to find that the
                            behaviour of the Militia merited your thanks. I hope the advance of the Marquis with the troops under his command would
                            give fresh spirits to the Militia, and enable your combined force, at least, to check the further progress of General
                            Phillips.
                        You were informed in my last of the Arms and Cloathing which were forwarding from hence and Philada.
                        I have good reason to beleive that another detachment of between 1500 and 2000 Men sailed from New York last
                            Week-- Their particular destination I have not yet learned. I should suppose it is for Virginia or Carolina, tho’ they have
                            industriously reported in New York that it is for the Delaware. You will be pleased to communicate this intelligence to
                            General Greene and to the Marquis de la Fayette. My uncertainty of the position of either of them prevents my writing
                            immediately to them.
                        I set out in a day or two to meet Count Rochambeau who has received late dispatches from France by His son.
                            We shall probably at that interview determine definitively upon the plan of Campaign. I am with very sincere Regard Dear
                            Sir Yrs &c.


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 17 May 1781
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Poughkeepsie 17th May 1781

                        I this moment received the enclosed Letter from Genl Schuyler to your Excellency which agreable to his
                            Direction I have perused & now forward by the same Express who handed it to me. This Letter with one which the
                            Express is charged with from Brigr Genl Clinton will I presume give your Excellency all the Intelligences from the
                            Northward and render it unnecessary to communicate the Particulars contained in my Letter. The Destruction of the Barracks
                            at Fort Schuyler is a Loss which I fear cannot be easily repaired in our present situation and I find it is my Brothers Opinion
                            which he informs me is supported by the concurrent Sentiments of the principal People of Albany, that it would be more
                            eligible to abolish the Works, remove the Artillery & Stores and take Post at the German Flatts than attempt it.
                            It is conceived that a Post established at that Place would afford greater Security to the frontier Settlements &
                            be supported with less expence & difficulty; and it is alledged that the great Object of maintaining a Post at the
                            former Place is removed by the friendly Indians having abandoned their Settlements in it’s vicinity & retreated to
                            Schenectady.
                        I promised myself the Pleasure of seeing your Excellency at Head Quarters before this: but the necessity then
                            was of convening special Courts for the speedy Trial of a number of attrocious Offenders confined in the Goal here
                            prevented it. This business being completed which I hope will be effected in a Day or two at farthest I shall not
                                fail waiting on your Excellency. I have not yet been furnished with Returns of the Levies raising
                            for the Defence of the State and therefore am not able to form any estimate of the additional Strength
                            they will afford to the regular Force on the northern Frontier—I fear but few of them are as yet
                            collected in that Quarter. I am with the highest Respect & Esteem Your Excellencys most Obedt Servt

                            Geo: Clinton


Title: To George Washington from James Clinton, 17 May 1781
From: Clinton, James
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Albany May 17th 1781.

                        Since my last of yesterday, another Express has been received from Fort Schuyler, Copies of which Inclosed
                            for your Excellency’s Satisfaction.
                        By the Proceedings of the Court of Inquiry it appears that the loss of the Barracks was occasioned by
                            Accident, however suspicious it appeared at first View, a Circumstance which affords me singular Pleasure. The Distruction
                            of a considerable Quantity of Officers & Soldiers Baggage, in some measure reconciles the Supposition.
                        The enclosed Returns of military Stores will point out the necessity of an immediate Supply of those Articles,
                            which should be forwarded without loss of time.
                        I am anxious to receive your Excellency’s Answer to this & my former Letters, as,
                            if the Barracks are to be rebuilt, a number of Articles will be immediately wanting; together with a
                            skillful Person to superintend the Work which from Accounts I have reason to believe are in a ruinous State. I have the
                            Honor to be Your Excellencys most obt Servt

                            James Clinton

                     Enclosure

                                Sir
                                Fort Schuyler 14 May 1781

                            You will see by the commanding officers Letter of this date the disaster we have met with the Barracks
                                and Bombproofs are entirely burnt down the Magazine and the other three Bombproofs in the Bastions excepted. Some part
                                of the Stores deposited in the Larboratory are entirely consumed and an immediate supply is necissary to the service
                                that the under mentioned articles be forwarded to the post with the utmost expedition vizt.

                                    6 doz. port fires

                                    a quantity of Flints

                                    Tubes for

                                    nine pounders:

                                    300

                                    do.  do.

                                    6  do.

                                    400

                                    do.  do.

                                    3  do.

                                    300

                            Six setts of drag ropes, a Quantity of Slow match, Fuzes for 4 2/5 Inch Mortars 150--
                                Musket and Cannon Catridge paper thread and twine for to make musket Catriges as none of the above articles are
                                saved. The rapidity of the fire was amazing every building was in flames in ten minutes after it
                                was discovered.
                            No endeavour was wanting to save the Stores and every thing has been saved that was possible is secured--
                                Lieut. Brewster and myself attended the Magazine and our endeavours has been blessed with success. I have only to regret
                                that Mr Brewster has suffered much by over heating himself by being exposed to the fire & is very ill I am
                                poorly by the reason. the Commanding officer afforded me every assistance in his power for further particulars refer
                                you to the Commandants Letter and have the honor to be Sir Your &c.

                                Andw Moodie Capt.
                                2d Regt of Artilly

                     Enclosure

                            Dear sir
                                Fort schuyler May 14th 1781 3 oClock P.M.

                            I am sorry to inform you that this day between the Hours of eleven and Twelve this Garrison took fire and
                                Consumed every Barrack notwithstanding every exertion was made to extinguish the flames-- I still remain in possession
                                of the Works and have saved the Magazine with a Small part of the provisions, tho’ as the Risque of our lives in my
                                next shall give you every Particular. I am &c.

                                Robert Cochran

                     Enclosure

                                Dear Sir
                                Fort Schuyler 14 May 1781

                            This is the second I have wrote you this day on the unhappy occasion.
                            About eleven oClock I took a walk at the Foot of the Glacis to examine some recruits who were exercising
                                where I happened to meet a Majority of the officers that were off duty, and after a short time the Alarm was given
                                that the Barracks were on fire. I immediately retired to the Fort and found the west Barracks all in flames the wind
                                being westerly so in a few moments put the whole Barracks on fire which put it out of our power to
                                prevent its Rapid progress-- The Magizine of ammunition is preserved with the utmost difficulty likewise we have saved
                                provisions sufficient to last us Six Days on half allowance-- Being suspicious that the fire might be occasioned by
                                some designed person I have thought proper to call a Court of inquiry to examine into the Matter the proceedings of
                                which I inclose you.
                            Lieutenant Denniston who is the bearer will be able to inform you of every minute Circumstance that has
                                happened. in utmost haste I am &c.

                                Robert Cochran

                     Enclosure

                                    14 May 1781

                            At a Court of Inquiry held at Fort Schuyler by order of Lieut. Colo. Cochran, to Inquire in what manner
                                the said Garrison Took fire May 14. 1781.
                            Present

                                     Capt: Hamtramck President

                                    Capt: Fowler

                                    Lieut. Denniston

                                    Lieut: Van Howenbergh

                                    Ensign Dodge

                            David Pettic. Mattross in Captain Moodie’s Compy being sworn says that this morning about Ten oClock he
                                had the brands of the Cole pit put out with water at the Pit and then brought them in the Garrison. and knocked off
                                all the Cole and piled them up in his Room which was occupied by the Artificers, and suppose the Barracks took fire
                                from the brands.
                            Charles Williams. Soldier in the Second New York Regiment being sworn says that he was in the Room next
                                to the Room where the fire took and that it was occupied by the Artificers, the deponant farther says that from the
                                time he discovered the fire first he judges the whole of the west Barracks was on fire in less than five minutes which
                                occasioned the whole to be consumed by the fire except the Bombproofs under the Bastions.

                                M. Hamtramck Presidt


Title: From George Washington to David Forman, 17 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Forman, David

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 17 May 1781

                        I am just now favored with yours of the 14‘. I am exceedingly obliged by the distinct and full intelligence
                            it contains of the sailing of the British Fleet—I had not before been able to ascertain the Matter, and I was very
                            anxious to do it, as I am to set out tomorrow to meet the French Admiral and General in Connecticut.
                        I shall very willingly consent to take a person into pay at the Rate you mention, as the Heights of Monmouth
                            are the only ones from whence the Movements of the Enemy’s fleet in and out of the Hook can be clearly discovered.
                        I am exceedingly sorry to hear of your family misfortunes—and am with very great Esteem Dear Sir Yr most ot
                            Servt.


Title: From David Humphreys to Edward Hand, 17 May 1781
From: Humphreys, David
To: Hand, Edward

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters May 17, 1781

                        I am directed by His Excellency to send you the enclosed to be issued to morrow. He also requests (if
                            possible) that from the result of your inspection, or by the Return of the Recruits who have joined since the first of
                            April, you will afford the Means (this evening) of ascertaining our present force with great precision. I have the honor
                            to be with perfect respect Your Most Obed. Servant

                            D. Humphrys Aide De Camp

                            P.S. The Return of Recruits called for two or three days ago is particularly necessary.


Title: To George Washington from Edward Hand, 17 May 1781
From: Hand, Edward
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            New Windsor May 17. 1781

                        It is impossible for me to ascertain the present strength of the Army with more accuracy than the last Return
                            gives it, except by informing your Excellency, that by a Return of the Jersey Line this day received, dated the 10th
                            instant, their total Rank and file exclusive of the command at Wyoming and to the Southward is 426—and that between 60
                            and 70 Recruits have joined the Massachusetts line since last Return.
                        From observations made in the late inspection I find there are about 60 Boys and 9 men unfit for service in
                            the Massachusetts line: 23 Boys and 3 men in the Connecticut line: 13 Boys and 1 man in the New Hampshire line: and one
                            man in Van Schaick’s regiment: in all 96 Boys and 14 men.
                        In general the whole of the Troops fit for service are well armed and Accoutred: their clothing is far from
                            being sufficient, the Hampshire Line in particular.
                        When your Excellency considers the great proportion of Recruits and the situation of the Troops in other
                            respects, you will not expect any great degree of perfection in their discipline it may be necessary to observe that about
                            900 Rank and file of the Number returned on Command are with the Marquis.
                        Inclosed are the Returns of the Recruits that have joined the New Hampshire Rhode Island and Connecticut
                            Lines, since the first of April last.
                        The Returns of recruits furnished by the Troops on the point, were so incorrect, I was obliged to return
                            them, therefore cannot ascertain the Number joined the Massachusetts Line, the Artillery, or Van Schaicks Regiment but am
                            pretty certain that the whole number retained from the beginning of January to this date does not exceed 1100 men, Hazen’s
                            regiment has made no Return though I believe it has had no recruits since the first of April. I have the honor to be with
                            much respect Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and Most humble Servant

                            Edw: Hand A. Gl


Title: To George Washington from Robert Howe, 17 May 1781
From: Howe, Robert
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Boston 17th May 1781

                        I was honourd the night before last with your Excellency’s favour & should have set out as to day
                            but both my servants were and are yet so ill that they are not able to attend me. They are not however in such a way that
                            they can I persuade myself proceed by Sunday or Monday when I shall set out for camp or sooner if they can possibly Travel. The loss of the Confedracy with our Clothing is an Ugly Stroke to us, but was no more than I
                            expected When I heard she was order’d for Philadelphia a great  of Clothing came in the
                                Dean Frigate for the French Army. Captain Nicholson tells me that as Count D’Estagne made
                            use of a Good Deal of ours he imagines some of this might be obtain’d, if so as it comes (he tells me) in Bales not made
                            up it would suit us very well. A man just from New York Reports that the ship Protection of this State was taken &
                            had arrived there, the Patriots here seem very Anxious upon this Occasion. I have the Honour to be with the greatest
                            Respect Dear sir Your Excellency’s Most Obt Hum. servt

                            Robt Howe


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 17 May 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor 17th May 1781.

                        His Excellency the Count de Rochambeau having received dispatches from the Court of France by his Son the
                            Viscount de Rochambeau, who arrived at Boston in the Frigate la Concorde the 6th instant, has requested an interview with
                            me. I have appointed the place of meeting at Weathersfield on Monday next, for which purpose, I shall set out to morrow
                            from hence. I am in hopes we shall be able, from the intelligences received, to settle a definitive plan of Campaign.
                        I am sorry to inform Your Excellency, that a part of our advanced troops were surprised on Monday Morning
                            near Croton River, by about fifty Horse and two hundred foot, under the command of Colonel Delancy—Colo. Greene who
                            commanded our party was mortally wounded in his quarters. The enemy attempted to carry him off, but he died upon the Road.
                            Major Flagg was killed. The loss of these Officers is to be regretted, especially the former, who had upon several
                            occasions distinguished himself particularly in the defence of the post at Red Bank in 1777, when he defeated Count Donop.
                            I inclose a Return of our loss upon the late occasion.
                        The Enemy upon their return fell in with Capt. Fog of the New Hampshire line, who was patrolling near the
                            White plains—They attempted to surround him and cut him off by dint of superior numbers, but the Captain made so good a
                            disposition of his small force, that he fought them off with the loss of two Men only. The enemy had a Captain and several
                            Men killed in the attack. I have the honor to be with great Respect Sir Yr Excellency’s Most obt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 14 May 1781
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia May 14. 1781

                        I am favored with yours of the 11th Instant covering the Extract of Intelligence received from Colonel Dayton
                            which proves to be premature.
                        Enclosed is the Copy of a Letter this Moment received from a confidential Person giving the latest authentic
                            Intelligence received relative to the Movements of the British Fleet, though a Report prevails that they have since
                            actually sailed, but the Truth of this Report remains to be more fully ascertained. I have the Honor to be, with the most
                            perfect Respect Your Excellency’s most obedt humble Servant

                            Sam Huntington

                            P.S. Your Excys dispatches of the 1st 8th & 10th instt have been receivd.


Title: To George Washington from John Amboy, 14 May 1781
From: Amboy, John
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            May 14, 1781

                        The above see below is a copy of a Letter I received last morning from Shrewsbury which
                            I wish safe to hand.
                        In a New York Paper of the 9th Inst. I saw the following. "On Sunday last was sent in here by some of his
                            Majesty’s Ships the Rebel Frigate Protector bound from Port au Prince to Boston Carries 12. 12s 8
                            guns, 6 6 pounders had many valuable Articles with 10.000 Dollars on Board; I am with great Regard
                            &c.

                        Saturday Night 12 of May 81
                        This Morning the Fleet got under Way but meeting a Brig. coming from the Southward they immediately returned
                            within the Hook.
                        Yesterday the London got a Ground in coming down where she lay for six Hours, which caused a great Uneasiness
                            throughout the whole Fleet but got off safe. They now give out they are going to Chesapeake Bay as a Reinforcement to G.
                            Phillips which I think is probable as I cant Learn they have any Genl Officer on Board and only 2.000 Troops with about 50
                            Horse.
                        I think the Fleet sails tomorrow the Weather permitting.