Title: From George Washington to Adam Stephen, 9 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Stephen, Adam

[Winchester, 9 January 1756]
To Lieutenant Colonel Adam Stephen, of the Virginia Regiment.Sir,

You are Ordered to proceed from this to Fort Cumberland: and to be accompanied by all the Officers now in Winchester, on your way thither. You are to Reconnoitre well the Ground about Ashby’s-Fort; and from thence down to the mouth of Patterson’s Creek: and inform me, if you meet with a convenient situation to erect a Fort on. If you find none there; take notice of the ground, between that and Fort Cumberland; and Report accordingly as you find it. This account must be transmitted by the first opportunity. You are desired to settle such Recruiting Accompts as have not passed my examination, and call in the balances (which you are to do, to see that the money has not been misapplied:) You are to order the Captains or commanding officers of each Company, to take the most elligible means to complete their Companies agreeable to the Orders issued this day—and you are to see that proper Officers are left to do the duty: and those who are sent out, are to receive a copy of the enclosed Instructions.
You are, so soon as you arrive at Fort-Cumberland, to detach Captain Waggener with two Subalterns, three trusty Sergeants,

three Corporals, a Drummer, and sixty private men, to the South Branch, above the Trough; where they are to erect small Fortresses; and use their utmost endeavours to protect the inhabitants of those Waters. His Orders will be sent to him. When you come to the Regiment, you are to give out in Orders, that every Captain or other officer commanding a Company is to keep exact accompts with, and a pay-roll for, their men; and to take two receipts from each man, for their months’ pay: which are to be entered regularly in separate Books kept for that purpose; one of which books is to be delivered to me after each pay-day; or to the Pay-Master, if I should not be present. If any non-commissioned Officer or Soldier, after having received the Countrys’ allowance of Clothing; should be in want of Shoes, Stockings or Shirts; he is to apply to his Captain: and if it is found that he really does stand in need of any of those things; his Captain, or Officer commanding the Company, is to draw upon the Quarter Master for them; who is to charge those things to the Captain or &c. and the Captain to the men; taking care to deduct the value next pay-day: the balance is then to be paid, and the receipt taken in full.
The Officer is not answerable to the Regiment for the value of those things, in case the men die or desert; unless it can be made appear, it is lost through his neglect, in not charging it, or stopping the value of such thing or things after it is charged.
The Quarter Master must be very careful of all the Stores, &c. committed to his care; as he will be answerable to the Regiment for their disbursments. As soon as you get up, you are to summons the Officers to appear; and to fix upon the proper persons in each Company for Sergeants; having regard to their outward appearances as well as their Moral Characters and Qualifications. John Sallard, and Francis Moreland, have my promises: and I think there are many more of the new ones, that will grace the Officers better than the old ⟨duty⟩ ones, that were made through necessity.
You are to allow three to a Company, according to the Establishment; and when they are ascertained, they will then receive Sergeants pay.
You are to transmit me an account by the first opportunity, of those Officers that are sent out.

Lieutenant John Edward Lomax, with the party guarding the Stores at Connongogee, is to be Relieved.
I must recommend earnestly the strictest obedience to all those Orders; and wishing you success, I am, &c.

G:W.
Winchester, January 9th 1756.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Waggener, 9 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Waggener, Thomas

[Winchester, 9 January 1756]
To Captain Thomas Waggener, of the Virginia Regiment.

I have ordered Lieutenant Colonel Stephen, so soon as he arrives at Fort Cumberland, to detach you with two Subalterns, three trusty Sergeants, three Corporals, one Drummer, and sixty private men to the South-Branch; to protect the Inhabitants of that place.
With this Detachment you are to proceed to Colonel Vanmeeters on the South Branch; and when you arrive there, you are to summon all the chief men of that place to meet you, and agree with you on the most proper place to erect a Fort, to protect

the inhabitants. You must build the Fort as large as those on Patterson’s Creek, and the same model; taking care not to build any thing that you think will be expensive to the Country.
As this work is intended entirely to defend the inhabitants of the place; there is no doubt they will assist all in their power.
Tools they must supply you with; for we can get them no where. So soon as this Fort is finished (if you do not receive orders to the contrary) you are to leave one Subaltern, one Sergeant, and fifteen private men to Garrison it; and proceed about fifteen or twenty miles higher up the Branch; and there; in the most proper place which you and the Inhabitants can pitch upon, erect another Fort of the same dimensions.
You are to be very exact in paying your men, and to take two Receipts from them; one for your own satisfaction; the other to be transmitted to me, or the Pay master in my absence, at Fort Cumberland, every pay-day. If your men want any necessaries, you are to draw upon the Quarter-Master of the Regiment. Those you deliver the men, are to be stopped from the next pay. You will not be liable to pay for any necessaries, which you deliver to any man, if he should desert, or die; unless it can be made appear it is lost by negligence.
All leisure hours are to be employed in exercising and disciplining your men; this must by no means be omitted. The Commissary will furnish you with provisions, &c.
The Roll of your Company is to be called three times every day; and every step taken to prevent desertion: but in case any of your men should desert, you are immediately to send in pursuit of them; and use the utmost of your endeavours to apprehend them. If you find that the plan of the Forts on Patterson’s Creek, will be too tedious to erect (as the Bastions are of hewn logs) you are to make the whole a Stockade.


Title: General Instructions for Recruiting, 9 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To:

[Winchester, 9 January 1756]

General Instructions for the Recruiting Officers of the Virginia Regiment.
First: That no Officer shall enlist any Servant or Apprentice; nor discharge any man, after he is duly enlisted: neither are they empowered to impress Horses, &c.
Secondly; That no Officer shall enlist any men under sixteen, nor above fifty years of age: nor are they to list men under five feet, four inches high; unless they are well made, strong and active; then and in that case, they will be received. Neither are they to list men who have old sores on their legs, or who are subject to Fits; which will be inspected into by the Surgeons upon their arrival at Quarters; and such as are found to come under these articles, will be discharged, and the Officers have no allowance made for them. So soon as they have enlisted a squad of five or ten men; they are to send them by some trusty person to the place of Rendezvous. The person with whom they are entrusted, is to take a receipt from the Officer, who is appointed to receive them: mentioning their number, names, &c.
Thirdly—That each Recruiting Officer is to repair to the place of Rendezvous, by the first day of March next. There will be an Officer to receive, review, and examine the Recruits that are brought in; who will have a power to reject and discharge such as come under the above Articles.
Fourthly. That for each Recruit passed by such Officer; the Officer who enlisted him, shall receive two pistoles; and an allowance of eight pence per day for Subsistance; from the day of his attestation, to the day of his being received in the Regiment.
Fifthly. That all Recruits, as soon as they are enlisted, shall take the Oaths provided for that purpose; which are to be attested by the Majistrate.
Their stature, complexion, &c. are to be taken, and entered in a Book, kept for that purpose by the Recruiting Officer.
Sixthly. That no Officer shall bring in any charge against his men for Necessaries; each man being to receive full clothing, upon his arrival at the place of Rendezvous.
Lastly: While they are on the Recruiting Service, they are to

govern themselves in every respect, by the Rules and Articles of War. Given under my hand this 9th of January, 1756. Rendezvous at Winchester.


Title: To George Washington from John Carlyle, 9 January 1756 [letter not found]
From: Carlyle, John
To: Washington, George

 Letter not found: from John Carlyle, 9 Jan. 1756. On 12 Jan. 1756 Carlyle wrote to GW: “I Wrote you the 9th Inst.”


Title: Orders, 10 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To:

Williamsburgh.

   Winchester. Saturday, January 10th 1756.
Yesterdays Orders for Lieutenant Colonel Stephens’ march, are countermanded, and postponed until to-morrow; when he and the Officers are to set out for Fort Cumberland.
Captain Stewart is to send off Sergeant Hughes, and one or two men of the Troop, upon Troop Horses, in pursuit of John Emre and David Christian, who deserted last night.
Captain Bell is to make out Advertisements of these two Deserters; and have them dispersed, for the better apprehending of them. On the return of the Officers, who went in pursuit of David Kennedy, and Abraham Dale; the horses impressed are to be delivered to the Commissary; who is to return them to their owners; making reasonable satisfaction for the use of the Horses. The Commissary must enquire after the Arms of the Deserters, and receive them into the Store: and by the first waggons that go to Fort Cumberland, to send half the Kettles here in Store; and about forty Blankets.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Walker, 10 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Walker, Thomas

[Winchester, 10 January 1756]

Instructions for Mr Commissary Walker.
You are to lay in at Cockes and Ashby’s Forts, three months provision.
As I can not yet determine where Store and Smoke-Houses are to be built; I would have you do the best you can, until you hear from me again. You are to provide three or four months provision to be carried on horse-back. If the Flour at Conongogee, should be demanded by the Kings Commissary; you must acquaint the Governour of it, and receive his Orders before you deliver it, or enter into any contract about it: it will nevertheless be necessary to lay in some more.

You are to provide provision on the South Branch for seventy men; which will be detached there under Captain Waggeners command. So soon as you arrive at Fort Cumberland, you are to demand the Country Horses that have been delivered to the Officers, for which they passed their Receipts: no more are to be delivered them unless they oblige themselves to see them forth-coming.
You may give a Reward to any person that finds any of the Country Horses; but they are not to be allowed to sell or keep them for their own use.
No Forage is to be issued at Fort Cumberland, but to the public Horses. If you can buy any quantity of forage at a moderate price, you may lay it in, both at the Fort and this place. The number of Tools, Saddles, nails, &c. can not be yet fixed on; so you may delay purchasing them a little.
You are to issue to the Officers at Fort Cumberland a sufficient allowance of Tallow, monthly. There are three thousand weight of Pork laid in at Job Pearsalls, which I would have you receive, and supply Cockes’s Fort out of it. You are to make out as distinct an accompt as possible, of the different Quantities and weights of the Beeves that were killed at the Fort; which with particular accompts, and general receipts from all the Coopers, Herdsmen, and Butchers; is to be transmitted to me, by the first safe hand.
Three women are to be allowed each Company and provisions drawn for them; on condition of their behaving well, and washing for the men: No more women will be allowed to draw provisions.
I would advise you to be very exact in Deliveries, payments, and receipts; and in every thing to consult the good of the Service you are employed in.
Particular care is to be taken of all the Bags you receive. Given &c. at Winchester January 10th 1756.


Title: From George Washington to David Bell, 10 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Bell, David

[Winchester, 10 January 1756]
To Captain David Bell, of the Virginia Regiment.

You are to proceed to Fort Dinwiddie, to settle your Recruiting Accompt with Ensign Fleming. You are then to proceed to the borders of Carolina, or other places where you may hear of Deserters; and use your utmost endeavours to apprehend them. You must make application to all the civil Officers; who will assist you in apprehending and conveying them to the Regiment.
You are to employ your time diligently in this and the recruiting Service, until the first day of April next; at which time it is expected you will be at Fort Cumberland without fail. Given &c. at Winchester, 10th of January, 1756.
N:B. Captain Bell also received a Copy of the General Instructions delivered Lieutenant Colonel Stephens: with this difference made, viz. His Rendezvous to be at Fort Cumberland, April the 1st. Captain Peachy received a copy of the General Instructions.


Title: From George Washington to Peter Hog, 10 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Hog, Peter

To Captain Peter Hogg.Sir,
[Winchester, 10 January 1756]

Since writing you by Major Lewis, I have received yours; enclosing Returns of the eighth and fifteenth of December. In your letter, you speak of Johnstons claim to a discharge, as mentioned in a former letter—that letter I never received—and know of no pretence he can have, unless disobedience of Orders and other villanous practises, are sufficient grounds to claim a discharge. As he deserted before the present act of Assembly took place, I do not imagine that any very rigorous measures can be justified; therefore, in this case I would recommend moderation. For want of being acquainted with the particulars of Sergeant McCully’s charge, it appears to me to be a very exorbitant one: therefore I can not give orders for payment, further than the Stoppages you mention. Sergeant Wilper received twenty shillings from me to defray his Expences; if you find that insufficient, make a further allowance of what is reasonable.
I can not conceive what charge Mr Fleming can have; since he is allowed eight-pence per day, and no more, for the maintenance of his Recruits, until they are received: which was not before they arrived at your Garrison. Three of his men were discharged here; vizt Francis Harlowin, William Cross, and William Passwater: being judged unfit for Service. Captain Bell has orders to settle Ensign Flemings Recruiting Accompt; allowing two pistoles for each man received; and eight-pence per day for their subsistance; from the time of attestation, to the day of delivery, and no more—He will be allowed his arrears of pay for the months of September and October: and then the balance, if any, must be paid to Captain Bell; who is to account with me.
You must be very circumspect in employing Mr Fleming as a Surgeon; and to see that he has no more opportunities than what are absolutely necessary, to enhance a Bill; as these accompts will meet with strict scrutiny from the Committee. It is customary for all Soldiers while they are sick in the Hospital, to have stoppages from their pay, for expence of Nurses, &c.
I find it next to an impossibility to strengthen your Garrison

with a Subaltern and twenty men, as I was in hopes of doing sometime ago: so slowly do we proceed in the Recruiting Service: but if the Service you are ordered upon, does not continue long; and you can find time to recruit twenty or twenty-five men; I will see that another Subaltern shall be added to your Company.
Lieutenant McNeil has an appointment in the Light Horse—In his room, you will receive Lieutenant Frazier; who must arrive there, before the other quits.
You are to return me a pay-roll for September; as you received that months pay from me: but for the subsequent months, you are to account with the pay-master; transmitting regular Rolls and Receipts, signed by yourself and Officers; as mentioned in my last.
You are to account with Mr Walker (Commissary) for the twenty pounds received of me; and the two hundred pounds by Lieutenant McNeil; as he is charged with those sums.
I expect the Governor, as he is providing many necessaries for Major Lewis’s Expedition, will furnish you with Kettles. If he should not, you must endeavour to supply yourself among the Settlers; for the expence of sending them from this, is of greater value than the Kettles themselves. And indeed I can not see why your men, while they are in Garrison, may not use one Kettle as well now, as they did before; were there a certain place appointed for Cooking. I am &c.

G:W.
Winchester, January 10th 1756.


Title: From George Washington to Alexander Boyd, 10 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Boyd, Alexander

[Winchester, 10 January 1756]
To Mr Alexander Boyd. Pay-Master to the Virginia Regiment.

You are, out of the public money in your hands, to pay off all the Troops of the Virginia Regiment to the first of this instant with what arrears are due both Officers and Soldiers. After doing that, if you do not receive a supply of cash from me; and should not have sufficient in your hands to pay the whole, this present months pay; you are, in order to keep the Soldiers quiet, only to pay them, and those of the Officers who are most in want of it—The rest will receive their pay, as soon as I can send you money. “Arrears are only to be paid those men who are now actually in the Service, which you will see by your payrolls: and the sums which Colonel Stephen received, are to be deducted from each man.”
Sergeants will be appointed to each Company; those you are to pay full pay.
You are to make the proper stoppages from each person, according to a former Order. “The Officers are ordered to take two Receipts from each man; one of which I have ordered to be delivered you, in my absence, before you make the next payment.”
Let the arrears paid the Officers and men, be kept in a separate accompt from the ordinary payments. Given &c. at Winchester, January 10th 1756.

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Rutherford, 10 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Rutherford, Robert

[Winchester, 10 January 1756]
To Mr Rutherford. Assisting Commissary.

You are to have regard to such order and Orders as you shall receive from Captain Stewart, relating to Provisions, Stores, &c. and deliver none without his directions, or the directions of a Superior Officer, during my absence.
If any fresh provisions or other necessaries are wanted for the Hospital; you are to provide them, upon receiving an order for that purpose from Captain Stewart. You are to make charge of the Expences, in your general accompt with Commissary Walker.

G:W.
Winchester, January 10th 1756.


Title: To George Washington from John Carlyle, 12 January 1756
From: Carlyle, John
To: Washington, George

Alexandria, Jany 12 1756
Dr Sir

I Wrote you the 9th Inst. Acquainting you of the Arrival of the Cloathing. They are landed at Malbrough In Maryland, & I have Sent Six Wagons to bring their Loads & Expect them on Saturday Evening. I thought it better to Land them their at this Season of the Year & Trust to Land rather than Watter Carrage & Yr Men Will be upon a Certainty of Getting Cloathed 14 days Sooner & phaps a Month if a Spell of bad Weather should Sett in—

                  £
                  shs.
                  p

                  The Goods Contracted for Amounts to
                  3944.
                  17.
                  4

                  The Blankets Camp Kettles Canteens Spare Shoes & Stockins & Shirts ⅌ yr Second order Amounts to
                  997.
                  10.
                  6

                  £4942.
                  15.
                  10

Inclosed is a true Copy of the Invoyce of goods you desired might be Sent for in order to Supply the Officers &c. & As I then told you I woud referr the Profit to you I have Stated on the Other Side the real Cost & as I send You the Genuin Cost I am In hopes You’l Not think me Unreasonable to Expect 100 ⅌ Ct Cury on the Nt first Cost, & ready money or a few Months Credit, Remittances must be made & Must give As Little Credit As possable, I woud Not take Less than 125 In our own Store of any other Person for the Same Goods, they Are rely Cheap & Good of their Kind.
I Expected before this Mr Lewis Woud Wrote Me he had purchased Negro’s for You At Col. Lomax Sale, but As he did Not, I Yesterday purchased Two Men & a Woman for You & a boy for Myself & yr Brothr John thought yours a Good Bargin at 86£ Sterling, to be paid the 1st of March Next In Bills of Exche or Pistoles at 16/6 Ster. or Pcs. of Eight at 4/6 it woud be Most for Your Advantage to gett the Latter but Where I Cannot Advise they Coud Not Take Our paper at any rate & I thought them So Good a bargin I did Not Care to Miss them, & took a Little time to pay it In I hope you’l have Good Luck with them.
You have Gott ten hogsheads of Tobacco on board Thompson & Two more to Inspect & Ship. She Will Go Away Soon & may be Ashured I will Send a Second Copy of your Invoice & Additions by her—Two hogsheads of yr Mt Vernon Crop is Come here, & Capt. Copythorne having a Sloop Loading to go round to a Ship in Rappahanock for Mr Knox at Bristol I have Lete him have those two hogsheads & Shall Send home Yr Bristol Invoice by that Ship & as yr Tobacco Comes In & We have Oppertunitys Shall Ship them As Directed.
I am hourly Expecting orders What Goods to Send You Up first. & With My hearty Wishes for Your health &c. In which Mrs Carlyle Joyns & Compts to all the Officers I am Known too. I remain Yr Most Obedt Servant

John Carlyle


Title: Orders, 14 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To:

Alexandria: Wednesday, January 14th 1756.

All the Recruits in Town are to be completed to six days provision; and are to-morrow to march to Winchester, under the command of Ensign Deane; who is to see that they commit no irregularities on their march. They are to Halt two days at Winchester, and then to proceed on their march to Fort Cumberland: they will receive provision at Winchester for that purpose. The rest of the Officers here are to set out to-morrow for Fort Cumberland, and join their respective Companies at that place, with the utmost dispatch.


Title: George Mercer to William Cocks, 14 January 1756
From: Mercer, George
To: Cocks, William

[Alexandria, 14 January 1756]
To Captain William Cockes, of a Company of Rangers.Sir,

Colonel Washington has ordered the Commissary at Winchester to deliver you, from the public Stores there, thirty Blankets, thirty Shirts, thirty pair of Shoes, and the same quantity of Stockings.
If you are not provided with them before you receive this; you are to send immediately down for them. The Things are calculated at the lowest prices; and ordered to be sold to the men at the following Rates, and stopped out of their next pay: viz. a pair Shoes, seven shillings and six-pence; a pair of Stockings,

three shillings; a Blanket, eight shillings and six-pence; a Shirt, seven shillings and six-pence: So the whole Suit amounts only to twenty-six shillings and six-pence. I am yours

G:M. aid de camp.
Alexandria: January 14th 1756.


Title: George Mercer to Robert Stewart, 14 January 1756
From: Mercer, George
To: Stewart, Robert

[Alexandria, 14 January 1756]
To Captain Robert Stewart. of the Virginia Regiment, at Winchester.Sir,

Colonel Washington desires, (if Captain Cockes, of the Company of Rangers, should apply for any necessaries) you to order the Commissary to deliver him thirty Blankets, thirty Shirts, thirty pair Shoes, and the same quantity of Stockings. If you have not got the Horse for the Troop, which Colonel Washington left at old Edwards’s; you must send him word to contrive him to you by the first opportunity. The Commissary to deliver the same kinds and sorts as he delivered Captain Ashby’s Company. I am &c.

G:M. aid de camp.
Alexandria: January 14th 1756.


Title: George Mercer to Mordecai Buckner, 14 January 1756
From: Mercer, George
To: Buckner, Mordecai

[Alexandria, 14 January 1756]
To Ensign Mordecai Buckner, at Winchester.

As Colonel Washington is doubtful that some of the men, to whom you delivered Shoes, Stockings, Shirts, &c. here, have received them a second time at Winchester—Desires you will examine the Commissary’s Book there; and if you find any such, give a list of them to the Pay-Master; in order that he may stop the value of them next pay-day. As soon as you receive this, you are to continue your march to Fort Cumberland with your Detachment, and all the men in Winchester; except those of the

Troop of Light Horse; and deliver the men to the Commanding Officers of the Companies they belong to. I am &c.

G:M. aid de camp.
Alexandria: January 14th 1756.


Title: To George Washington from William Withers, 22 January 1756
From: Withers, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
Williamsburg January 22d 1756

Mr Prentis omitting to send Majr Carlyle the Particulars in each Package ship’d on board the Rawley occasions You the Trouble of this—I am very sorry for Anderson’s misbehaviour, he was recommended by Capt. Tate, his Owner, as an honest industrious Man, & well qualified for such a Business; but I find he has given sufficient Proof to the contrary, for which I hope he will meet with his Desert. I am Sir Your most obedt humble Servant

Wm Withers


Title: To George Washington from Robert Carter Nicholas, 23 January 1756
From: Nicholas, Robert Carter
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir.
Williamsburg 23d Jany 1756

I was favour’d with yr Letter some Time ago, but know of no Opportunity of answering it sooner than by Capt. Mercer, as, upon Enquiry, I have not been able to hear any Thing of Jenkins. The Snuff Box was properly return’d & I took the Liberty of communicating the extatick Paragraph of your Letter; what Blushes & Confusion it occasioned I shall leave you to guess. It is with no small Concern that I hear of your being impeded in the Enterprize you’ve Undertaken by Pretensions that appear

to me groundless & unreasonable; but I hope Matters will be soon accommodated to your Liking. There is a Ship lately arrived from England, which brings Nothing worth mentioning, except his Majesty’s Speech & the Addresses of both Houses; the former of which breaths such paternal Tenderness for the Subject, & the Latter are fill’d with such Expressions of Loyalty & Confidence that our Enemies can have no Room to hope for Success from the much wished for Disunion of Sentiments in the King & People, but rather I hope have just Reason to dread the Resentment of a British Parliament. I heartily wish you a more succesful Campaign than you have hitherto met with & I should at all Times be glad to hear of yr Welfare being truly Yr affte humble Sert

Robt. Carter Nicholas

Mrs Nicholas’s best Wishes attend you.


Title: To George Washington from Charles Lewis, 25 January 1756
From: Lewis, Charles
To: Washington, George

Sr
Fredericksburg Jany 25th 1756

The inclos’d is a Letter from Colo. Stephen, with which I should have waited on You, had I not have heard You were gone to Williamsburg; I am now a recruiting much discourag’d by the Gentlemen’s Success, who have lately been, but no Pains shall be wanting on my Side to compleat my Company, but I fear it will be without Effect, Colo. Stephen’s Orders to repair to Winchester by the first of March I presume, is too short a Time to do much Business in, wherefore should be glad You would increase the Time either to the first of April, or alow us as many

more Days as Yr superior Judgment shall think proper, this if You please You may let me know Pr Bearer hereof.
Whatever Questions you may desire to ask me relative to the Inquiry You’ll find in Colo. Stephen’s Letter shall be faithfully answerd, either by Letter or Mouth according to yr Directions by the Bearer. I am Sir with the greatest Esteem yr most Obedient most Humble Servt

Charles Lewis


Title: From George Washington to Charles Lewis, 27 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Lewis, Charles

[27 January 1756]
To Captain Charles Lewis, of the Virginia Regiment.Dear Charles,

The first of march I appointed for the general Rendezvous; as I conceived a plan of operations for the ensuing Campaign would be concerted and ordered by that time: However, yours is Hereby prolonged until the twentieth of that month; at which time, without a further prolongation, you are ordered to repair to Winchester without fail.
I am greatly astonished at Mr Starke’s behaviour, but more surprized at the Courts opinion; who must (at least ought) to know, that if Captain Dagworthy really was Commander (which by the by, is a point I have never yet agreed to) that there are certain Compliments due from Troops to their own Field Officers, which can not well be dispensed with—but more of this anon.
If you can inform particularly of these proceedings it will be agreeable, in a letter, when opportunity offers, to Alexandria.
It gave me infinite satisfaction to hear Colonel Stephen express his approbation of your conduct. Assure yourself, dear Charles, that activity and Bravery in Officers are the means to recommend them to their Country’s applause—and will ever

endear them to me! Your Courage and ablities were always equal to my wishes: But I dreaded the pernicious effects of liquor; especially as I knew it bereft you of that prudent way of reasoning, which at other times you are master of. Such inconsistent behaviour as liquor sometimes prompts you to, may be borne by your Friends; but can not by Officers; and in a camp, where each individual should regulate his conduct for the good of the whole; and strive to excel in all laudable Emulations. This comes from me as your Friend, not as a Superior Officer; who must, when occasion requires, condemn as well as applaud: Though in sincerity I tell you, it would grate my Nature to censure a person for whom I have a real love and esteem; and one, too, who I know has a capacity to act as becomes the best of Officers.
This timely admonition will not, I hope, be thought unseasonable. I am influenced by friendly motives to give this advice; and offer it as a proof of the Regard, with which I am, Your &c. &c.

G:W.
January 27th 1756


Title: From George Washington to George Fraser, 27 January 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Fraser, George

[27 January 1756]
To Lieutenant George Frazier of the Virginia Regiment.Sir,

You are really appointed to Captain Hoggs Company as Captain Peachy told you; and I am sorry to say, as it is disagreeable to you, that you must abide by this regulation; and repair to the Company with all convenient dispatch.
If it is absolutely necessary for you to go by Fort Cumberland; I must recommend diligence, as your presence may be wanting—As to your having Fort Duty this year, it is no other

than what I expect we all shall have (I see no prospect of taking the Field:) and if I judge right, you may have as good an opportunity to reap Laurels on Jackson’s River, as at any other Station on our Frontiers; along which I expect the Troops will all be posted.
Since you mention how much Captain Hogg and Son are addicted to disputation; I think it my duty to caution you against it. For if any difference arises, by which the Public Service is in the least retarded; the Offender shall certainly answer it to a General Court Martial; and undergo the utmost rigour of the Sentence.
It is possible, Captain Hogg’s Company may be marched on a certain Expedition ordered by the Governor; should this be the case, you are to remain at the Garrison until his return; and as soon as that happens, relieve Lieutenent McNeil, and order him to join his Troop.

G:W.
January 27th 1756.


Title: To George Washington from Peter Hog, 27 January 1756
From: Hog, Peter
To: Washington, George

Dr Sir
Fort Dinwiddie 27th January 1756

I Recd Yours by Capt. Bell of 10th Instant 10 Days before yours 27th Decr by Majr Lewis which only came to hand Last

Night, you will See by the Inclosed Return that the Company wants but one of being Compleat: only the Mulattoes & Negos are still Included.
I have Inclosed an Accot for Comisy Walker of the money I recd from Mr McNeil and have all the Vouchers Lodged to Send by the first safe & direct Conveyance that will grant Recpt for them, & Each Voucher attested by the Subalterns. By the Accot you will Observe the qty of provisions does not Exceed that Agreed on by Majr Lewis & You at the fort, & will barely Suffice for 10 Months[.] It is true I did send down an Estimate to the Govr that he might not send half the Sum wanted, and there I sett down 32 thousd ⟨lbs.⟩ of beeff at 10/, £160–20 tubs to Cure the Meat at 10/ each £10—& so much for Barrels.
Now Sir I think it is really Amazeing that his Honr should mistake 20 tubs for a trough of which I am possitive there is not the least mention as will appear both by the principal in the Govrs hands & the Copy in mine, how far his honr may be unacquainted with the qty of Beeff necessarry to Support a Company for 10 Months, I shall not determine; but certainly it must be great Inattention to mistake a Charge of 20 tubs for a trough which would rather deserve the Name of an Ark. It was much against my Inclination to Undertake playing the Comisy for the Compy as I knew that Instead of its being Esteemed an Extra Service it would Subject me to Invidious Reflections & Ill-natured Censures. But I am unlucky in having prejudices Entertained agt me without any foundation, & as readily believed.
Majr Lewis would not Send up the Act relating to deser⟨ters⟩ but desired me by a Verbal Message to try & punish them before we Marched tho. he Expects we will Sett out this Week. Johnson says that in Consideration of his taking the Dutch men that deserted from Lt. Polson’s Detachmt at the Dunkers he was to have his discharge of Capt. Peyronie who on his Application said he did not care to Sign a Discharge but that he might goe abt his Bussiness he would never Advertize him nor Send after him and refers to Collo. Stephens as an Evidence. It is only such as doe real Carpenters work that I intend to pay, and there is a great many little Jobs of Smiths Work from the scarsity of tools & the many hands they goe thro & many of them unskilfull[.] I have never had any tools from Fredericksburg since those that Came by the Salt Waggon nor are they to be purchased

here but if you can order up some Iron & Salt from Frederickbg ⅌ first Waggon for the Courtho. it will Supply those Wants[.] I am sory that you are either Misinformed or Misapprehend the Case of Chew’s Servant, I never spoke to her in my Life Untill I was ordered by Genl Braddock to take the Command of the Detachmt for the pensilva. Road when she was recommended to my care in her way to Phila. by some of the officers who Lodged at her Masters & by Mrs English who waited on Mr Allen & me, it is true I made her Change her resolution of going to Phila. and brought her back to Wills Creek where she was openly Seen in the Camp. I never intended to Conceal her, but on the Contrary tho. there was never no Enquiry made after her all the time I had her at Wills Creek, I Emploied Mr Stalker to buy her time and told him he might draw on me for the money. But my Station here prevented his Answer I Suppose, and you are Sensible I have not had an Oppty of Sending to Alexandria Since you Left this, besides I have never had any Conveyance to Send money from this Except Mr Gordon & he went to Wills Creek so that I dont See that I have acted either Unlike an officer or a Gent: unless that a Great many would have made the same Use of a Mans Maid without making any Satisfaction to the Master or reckoning themselves under any Obligations to free the Maid from a harsh Servitude, which I all along Intended and declared, tho’ I never had any Application made to me by Mr Chew or any other person for him till the note that Came with Yours: and accordingly have Sent Bills to Capt. Stewart for £10—who will deliver them to any Safe hand that you shall order going to Alexandria who may bring up the Indenture & deliver it to him. She tells me that was the original price given by Chew to Mr Kirkpatrick & she served him 9 Months however if it is a triffle more Capt. Stewart will advance it for me. I Cannot yet send the pay Roll & Recpts for Decr as the Serjt who pays off the Men was Sent to press horses for the March But shall Answer that and the other particulars of Capt. Bells Lettr before I march. I am Sir Your Very hume Servt

Petr Hog

   Inclosed is the pay Roll for Sept.
P.S. Mr McManus Writes to me for one Augt. Cole a deserter from Capt. Dobs Compy[.] I recd him over from Majr Lewis, &

have desired him to Apply to you to determine it he is Left behind in the fort under the Serjt.


Title: George Mercer to Denis McCarty, 30 January 1756
From: Mercer, George
To: McCarty, Denis

To Ensign Denis McCarty.Sir,
[30 January 1756]

Enclosed is a Commission, appointing you an Ensign in the Virginia Regiment. Colonel Washington has been pleased to appoint you to Captain Bronaugh’s Company—You are therefore ordered to act in that Company, until further orders. Yours &c.

G:M. aid de camp.
January 30th 1756.


Title: To George Washington from Adam Stephen, 31 January 1756
From: Stephen, Adam
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fort Cumberland [Md.] January 31st 1756

I forgot to acquaint you, that The Governor, when I was at Williamsburgh, desird if possible, to procure Some Indians of Repute among their Tribes, to carry a message amongst the Confederate Nations of the Twightwees, To Sound their Intentions, know their Affection to the English, and how far they are attached to the French.
I wrote him afterwards that Captain Trent had promis’d to procure them; having Sent Fraser to bring it about, as I look upon it as an Important piece of Intelligence, and desird his Honor to Send his Instructions and Speeches to you to be deliver’d to the Messenger at Fort Cumberland or where you pleasd, with your Own proper Injunctions. Whether you have receivd such Instructions I cannot Say, but you will See by Trent’s Letter the Indians are ready, and had they been

brought to Will’s Creek, Nothing being Ready for the Ambassy, we Should have been brought into further Contempt with them. I think that the Expence is inconsiderable, compard with the Service, and Intelligence; and the Sooner they are dispatchd the Better.
We were alarum’d on the 23d by having one Barnet of the Light Horse, Scalp’d within 300 yards of the Command tending the Cattle up the North Branch: One Batemore of The Troop and Peckwood who was about the first of October chasd all the way from Ray’s Town by the Indians, are missing Since That morning, from the Same place. I detachd Capt. Bronaugh with Captain Josh. Lewis and 100 men to Scour the mountains, and bring Intelligence, with orders to proceed as far as Williams plantation, to Examine towards George’s Creek, and pursue the Enemy towards the South Branch, If they found that they had Crossd the North Branch.
To my Surprise They Return’d the Same night, without the least Intelligence. I afterwards Sent out Capt. Jno. Mercer, Captain McKenzie and 80 men to Scour the mountains towards the Alleganay, and from George’s Creek towards Martins As far as the North Branch, never touching the road in the march—They are not Returned, and I expect a Satisfactory Acct from them as soon as they do. I have orderd the Watermen to Land the flour they Bring up from Cannogochigoe at Walkers at the Mouth of Pat. Creek, where I shall be obligd to send a guard. We have no Room for it here, and we wait to hear from you before we build any more Storehouses. If we build on Pattersons Creek, It is conveneint to have it there. We want a Store house for the Quarter Mr.
A very Rich affair has Happen’d latley—I indulged Mr Roe in Carpenters and Nails planks &c. to build a house, and now it is finished, he has sold it to Buckner for £20.
And I hear it Whisperd that They design to have a Chemny put to One of the Storehouses within the Fort for him to live in, which I will take Care to prevent untill I hear from you.
I have given up nothing hitherto. The Report of the Redoubt Regard is made to me daily, where all the prisoners of the Regmt Are; I send out what parties I think proper, and do with the Regmt wtout Contrac⟨t.⟩ You will see what they are about in pennsylvania by Trent’s Letter. There is a Recruit of Captain

Bronaugh’s, and One of Lt. Blag’s, who were both Cloathd, and brought up here, and beig judged Useless and discharg’d, The Cloath therefore, and charge of bringing Up are a dead weight. I long to hear from You, and am with Respect Sir, Your most Obet huble Servt

Adam Stephen


Title: Enclosure: William Trent to Adam Stephen, 21 January 1756
From: Trent, William
To: Stephen, Adam

Dr Sir
Mouth of Conicochig [Md.] 21st January 1756

I received yours by Mr Fraser at Carlisle as I was returning from Philadelphia as you don’t acknowledge the receipt of one from me dated at Carlisle makes me imagine it miscarried[.] In that Letter I acquainted you with the reason why I could not procure the Indians then—I have now engaged three, Crissopia to goe to Kittannen and Fort Du Quesne and two others to goe to the Twightwees provided you choose to send them—Crissopia asks Twenty Pounds and each of the others Twenty five pounds—I thought it a great deal of money therefore did not choose to agree with them Punctually till you were acquainted with their demands—If you choose to send them if you’ll draw out your Instructions and send any Officer with them to Fort Littleton about Twenty Miles from Stoddards first giving me Notice of the time you intend to send there I will send to Mr Croghan to bring the Indians there against the time, he promised to bring them if I wrote to him that you wanted

them and I will send any goods or Wampum you will have occasion for—This was the best mannor I could manage it for you[.] Should I have carried them to the Fort, & they would not goe without a White Man with them & you have thought it too high Wages they would have been affronted unless they had been paid as much allmost as they were to have had to gone to the Fort so I thought this the most prudent way & am in hopes you will be of the same way of thinking[.] I parted with Governour Morris & the Commissioners at Carlisle the 19th—there was no Indians at the Treaty except those that keep with Mr Croghan[.] Either the 22d or 23d of this Month General Johnston is to meet the Six Nations at his House to demand the Reason why they suffer the Delawares and Shawnesse to kill the English and to demand their Assistance and to insist upon a positive answer[.] General Shirley has given orders for a Treaty with the Southern Indians, the Governments of Pennsylvania Virginia and Maryland are to send Commissioners and he has wrote to the Governours of the Carolinas to assist at the Treaty and appoint the place where it is to be held.
The Pennsylvanians have Raised three Hundred Men in Cumberland County who are building Four Forts to be Garrisoned with 75 Men each, the Forts about 20 Miles distant each from the other, One at the Sugar Cabbins called Fort Littleton Commanded by Capt. Hance Hamilton, One at Aughwich Capt. Geor. Croghan called Fort Shirley, One at Kishequochillas called Fort Granville Capt. James Burd, One at Mockingtongs called Pomfret Castle Capt. James Patterson[.] They give their Men 45/ Pr Month the Capts 7/6 Lts 5/6 Ensigns 4/6 Pr day though it’s thought they’ll raise the Capts. pay to 10/ pr day.
By the Last Accounts from England they expect an Invasion and are fortyfying the Coast, they had then 343 Sail of Vessels lying in the Harbours which they had taken from the French I am Dr Sir Your most Humb. St

William Trent

PS You’ll oblige me to send me the Ballance of that Accot by the first oppertunity

W.T.


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Walker, 1 February 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Walker, Thomas

To Mr Commissary Walker.Sir,
[Alexandria, 1 February 1756]

As the contention about the command is risen to the disagreeable height it now is; and would probably, if not timely prevented, be attended with very bad consequences to the public: I solicited leave, which is obtained, to visit the General, and represent all those matters to him. And accordingly I set out on monday next.
When I saw you last, you proposed as a thing which you believed might be accomplished, to reduce the hire of Waggons by contracting with a certain number for certain prices: If this can be done, it will be very advisable; as their demands are very exorbitant at present.
Such Stores as are now lying at Winchester and are wanted at the Fort, must be got up as fast as conveniency will admit. And as Houses may be wanted for the provision, &c. they must be built: but I must intreat, that every unnecessary expence be avoided: as it is uncertain whether the Fort will be continued at Wills’ Creek or not. As it is possible you may want money before my return (which can not be before the middle or last of march) you must draw upon the Secretary, Mr Kirkpatrick, who has orders to pay.
Mr Boyd, the Pay-Master, is ordered to Alexandria; to receive money for payment of the Troops: you may desire him to receive for you.
I must earnestly recommend diligence to you in this important season; and closely attend the Duty, let it call you wheresoever it will. I am &c.

G:W.
Alexandria: February 1st 1756.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 2 February 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

[Alexandria, 2 February 1756]
To the Honourable Robert Dinwiddie. Governor of Virginia.Honorable Sir,

I can but return my very hearty thanks for your kind condescension in suffering me to wait upon General Shirley; as I am very assured it was done with intention to favour my Suit.
There is as yet an unanswerable argument against our taking the Field, which I forgot to mention in my last; that is, the want of a Train of Artillery; and, what is full as necessary, Engineers to conduct the Affair, if we hope to approach Duquisne. By the advices we have received hitherto from the northward, the Pennsylvanians are determined to act defensively. For that purpose, they have posted their new raised Levies upon their Frontiers at different passes, and have received the additional strength and favour of a Detachment or two from the Regulars. I have Ordered, besides the Forts that are built and now building, that a Road which I had reconnoitred, and which proves nearer and better, to be immediately opened, for the more easy transportation of Stores &c. from Winchester to Fort Cumberland. So that there is not the least fear of the Soldiers being corrupted through idleness. The Commission for calling General Courts Martial appears to me to be imperfect (notwithstanding it is drawn by the Attorney General) as it rather by the words, appoints me, or whoever it is directed to, President of the said Court; than invests a power to call one as often as occasion shall require. For which reason it is not in my power to hold a Court Martial, without it’s being first ordered by you, whereas the Commission should empower to appoint a Court

of which he is to be president. But as I hope there will be little occasion for any until I come back, it may be deferred until then; when that and other things, I hope, will be properly settled. As I mentioned in my last, I left you a Return of all the Clothing that ever came into my hands; and did, so soon as I received my first instructions from you, order the pay-master to make the Stoppages. However, I again send a copy of the return made me by the Store-keepers, of the Clothing that came to me.
As to those fifty suits delivered Colonel Fairfax for the Rangers, I have had no cognizance of them; they were delivered by himself, Colonel Martin, Lord Fairfax, and the officers of the said Rangers with the greatest irregularity; as indeed some other of the public Stores have been by their Orders; such as Ammunition, &c. I shall take care to give your Honor previous notice of all new appointed Officers; and have sent an Order to Colonel Stephen, to confirm Dekeysers Suspension.
I have always, so far as it was in my power, endeavoured to discourage Gaming in the Camp; and always shall, so long as I have the honor to preside there.
I have delivered the Skipper to Mr Carlyle, who proposes, in order to save expences, to send him round by water, in the Vessel that brought up the Stores.
The Evidences in this affair will be Mr Carlyle, and Ensigns Buckner and Deane; and one of the men that is now in the Vessel.
I can not help observing that your Honour, if you have not seen the Clothing lately sent up, has been imposed upon by the contractors. For they are really unfit for use; at least will soon be so.
I have nothing particular to add, but to assure your Honour that I shall use my utmost diligence in the prosecution of my journey and pretensions; and that I am, with very great Esteem, Your Honor’s &c.

G:W.
Alexandria: February 2, 1756.


Title: Memorandum, 2–3 February 1756
From: Washington, George
To:

[Alexandria, 2–3 February 1756]

John Sellers, Enlisted by Ensign Deane, was this day discharged; as not being legally Enlisted.


Title: From George Washington to John Kirkpatrick, 3 February 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Kirkpatrick, John

[Alexandria, 3 February 1756]
To John Kirkpatrick, Secretary.

You are to remain at this place until my return; unless you receive orders to the contrary from me. The Pay-Master and Commissary will apply to you for some money; and you are according to their demands on you, to pay them out of the money in your hands; reserving about eight hundred pounds—You are also to pay off the Officers and men now in town, before they march. Given at Alexandria, this 3d of February, 1756.

G:W.


Title: To George Washington from Landon Carter, 26 February 1756
From: Carter, Landon
To: Washington, George

Sir
Feby 26. 1756

The Bearer Mr John Lawson having heard of nothing to discourage his Military inclination now comes to put himself in the Situation of a Cadet he is of a Family in Lancaster descended from the Steptoes by the mother side and I have told him that there are many waiting before him but as I learn there are three vacancys in the Company of Ensigns the number standing before him will be fewer[.] I have told him the duty of a Cadet is to take his turn on guard and no Wages allowd above a Common Man wch do not discourage him and as his charachter to me was pretty good I have ventured to recommand him to

yo. and I shall be oblgd to yo. for yr Advice what it will be best for the Young man to do he has a little Patrimony and I have recommended great diligence, Circumspection & frugality to him & he has a Countenance that does not ill bespeak him. I am Yr most humble servt

Landon Carter


Title: To George Washington from Robert Orme, 2 March 1756
From: Orme, Robert
To: Washington, George

Dr George
March the 2d 1756

I writ to you the very day I sailed from America to convince you I left the Continent with all those Sentiments of Friendship towards you I ever professed I hope now to convince that I retain the same and shall ever have the greatest Happyness in the Continuance of it.
Letters from America had made the Generals Character as odious in this Country as there but since my Arrival and my having writ a true and impartial Narrative of the Affair the Opinions of Men are altered and his Character will be rather revered than disapproved. I was told upon my first coming here you had writ several Letters to England speaking in very disrespectful Terms of Genl Braddock. I absolutely denied it could be so as I had Letters from you of a very different Language and that I knew too well your Integrity and Honor to believe you capable of such Conduct This like all other idle Reports blew over and soon was disbeleivd. I want very much to hear of your Virginia Battalion how recruited disciplined and regulated what are the Conditions of your Frontiers and how

coverd from Indian Inroads. I fear every day some very bad News your Country is much exposed and as all the Troops are to the Eastward I think you must suffer this Spring.
American Affairs are not vey well understood at Home and the Want of Men and Money make the true defence and Protection of the Colonies very difficult. The Parliament have consented to the raising an American Regiment of four Battalions I doubt very much the Possibility of completing it and if it is the Count[r]y may derive some immediate Advantage but will suffer in the End as the draining the Colonies of Men is certainly a very pernicious Measure[.] I thought I should have returned but am not included in the American Promotions except the Pleasure of once more seeing my dear George I am as well contended. I dont know whether a good House and comfortable Living is not as well as the Palace of Enoch Enoch’s.
I shall expect from you the State of the Colonies I know your Abilities and Integrity the one intitles you to speak the other will prevent your ever advancing any Impropriety.
Whatever Acquaintance of mine you may meet with present my Compliments.
If you should have any Orders or Commissions in these Parts pray employ me and assure yourself my dear Friend no one can be more ready to give you every Instance of his sincere Regard God bless you and believe me with the greatest Truth your Sincere Friend & humble Servt

Robt Orme


Title: To George Washington from William Shirley, 5 March 1756
From: Shirley, William
To: Washington, George

Boston March 5th 1756

Governor Dinwiddie at the Instance of Colonel Washington having referred to me concerning the right of Command, between him and Capt. Dagworthy, and desiring that I would determine it, I do therefore give it as my Opinion that Capt. Dagworthy who now acts under a Commission from the Governor of the Province of Maryland, and where there are no regular Troops join’d, can only take Rank as Provincial Captain and of Course is under the Command of all Provincial Field Officers, and in case it shall happen, that Col. Washington and Capt. Dagworthy should join at Fort Cumberland. It is my Orders that Colonel Washington should take the Command.

W. Shirley


Title: To George Washington from Adam Stephen, 29 March 1756
From: Stephen, Adam
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fort-Cumberland [Md.] March 29th 1756

There is no remarkable Occurrence on this Quarter since my last, only the Murder of Ensign Gordon for the particulars of which, I refer you to Capt. Stewart.
I regret him much, as he was a diligent Officer, Staunch, and firmly attach’d to the Virginia Interest, and had a particular Regard for You.
I have learn’d that you have been a long Journey, purely to pay your Compliments, and hear Some handsome things, which one is always to Expect from persons Conversant at the Courts of Princes, and especially from One who has resided So long at Paris the Metropolis of a polite Nation.
The labour you have undergone ought to endear you more to the Gentlemen Concerned, and on Some of your Officers will have the proper Effect.
We were dilatory in beginning to push the Affair, but I hope Sir, as you have been so good as to embark in it, You will persevere, and leave no Stone unturned, but push the thing in the proper Channel—You may depend on my Concurrence, and

what lies in my power to promote Your Interest and honour. I think the more our Form resembles that of the Regmts on the Establishmt The better pretensions we will have to be Establish’d. If modelled after this manner, we have a great many Officers to Spare, and Several we Can Spare, without hurting the Service. I can appeal to the orderly Book for my good intentions, but they have not avail’d So much as I good wish.
I have desired Mr Walker, to be ingenuous with You, if you ask him any Questions—In short, Sir, we have Severals who do little honour to the Regiment, and who seem to me to have enterd the Service out of mercenary rather than honble Views. If they can Comply with their Duty as far as to keep their Commission They have no Anxiety about the Desolation of the Frontiers, or Interest of their Country.
We stand in need of a purgation, and after you have reduced our numbers to men of spirit & honour—proper things may be Expected from Us; and we Can better answer the Expectations of Our Country. The Number of Officers, to our Number of Men, is a Burthen to the Country, for which Reason I beg you would insist upon a Regular Form. But what do I say? I am informed that a Certain Person, who declares openly that He has the greatest Influence over Governor Sharpe; will insist upon our being reduced to Independent Companies again, will have poor Livingstone Broke—because he insists upon doing his duty, and I suppose will bring about Several other great Changes worthy of the Gun Room. Unheard of Insolence!
I shall look upon my Interest to be Inseperable from Yours, will Steer for the same Port, and as I dare Obey what Governor Sharpe, or any Commander dare Command—I will never Submit to any Regulations but what You approve; nor will I ever Serve in the provincialls below the Rank I bear, If the Duke of Cumberland were to C⟨ome⟩ in, besides a Braddock—I have the honour to be Sir, Your most Obt huble Servt

Adam Stephen

P.S. We have been much harassd by the Indians; which occasioned Several Parties always on the Scout.
You will find the men come on in Exersise and Bushfighting better than the Officers.


Title: To George Washington from Adam Stephen, 30 March 1756
From: Stephen, Adam
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Fort Cumberland [Md.] March 30th 1756.

The inclos’d is a Rough, but Exact Copy of Mr Boyd’s Accounts.

The First Contains the Disbursements from The 1st of Septr to The 1st of January.
The Other The disbursemts for January & February and Arrears. The Balance in Mr Boyd’s hands is £311.5.3½ which I shall desire him to Apply to the Paymt of the Officers for Janr. & Febry—not forgetting to Settle their Recruiting Accts which Balances in the Country’s Favour are very Considerable—I have Examind The Receipts and Vouchers, and find them to Answer, and am with Respect, Sir, Your most Obt huble Servt.

Adam Stephen


Title: To George Washington from John Robinson, 31 March–2 April 1756
From: Robinson, John
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
[c.31 March–2 April 1756]

I am under some difficulty in giveing my Advice in your present situation, as I think your presence may be necessary in both Places, tho. from the complaints I have heard from some Gent., who perhaps know nothing of the Matter, of the Behaviour of some of the Officers at the Fort, and the Opinion they have that things would be conducted much better if you was present, and the Apprehensions many of them are under at this time from the Enemy, which I know would be considerably lessened if you was with the Forces, I am induced to think it will be best for you to proceed up, as I am afraid it will be some days before the Assembly will come to a Resolution in what manner to act, and I am perswaded the Committee will excuse your not attending when your presence may be necessary above, I would advise you however to wait on the Govr and have his sentiments on the Matter I am Dr Sir Your Affect. Freind and Servant

John Robinson


Title: To George Washington from Peter Hog, 3 April 1756
From: Hog, Peter
To: Washington, George

Sir
Fort Dinwiddie 3d April 1756

Inclosed is the Return for this Month of my Company. I arrived here this Evening with the Greatest part of the Men I Carried out, greatly fatigued & mostly reduced with famine & a flux however Mr Fleming thinks that Rest & Regular Diet will recover Most of them; & therefor has returned but one Sick of those that are present. Majr Lewis no Doubt will Inform you of the State of the Ill Concerted Expedition that Miscarried from the Disobedience of Men Undisciplined, & Subject to no Military Law, a too Smal Store of provisions; & the most Impassable Route that Ever was Attempted. I have not time to give you the particulars; as I have just Embraced a Sudden Oppty of Conveying this to Augusta Courtho., With the Return; & to Desire the Remittance of the Companies pay for the 2 Months by gone; as the Men are really in Want of Shirts Shoes & Every part of Cloathing, and Expect new Regimentals this Spring I hope as formerly hinted that the Arrears for January & February 55 will be Sent for the Men under me Draughted from the other Recruiting officers Last Spring I am wt. Respect Sir Your Very hume Servt

Petr Hog

P.S. I shall Also Expect money to Enlist Men to Compleat the Company first Oppty. P:H:


Title: From George Washington to William Shirley, 4 April 1756 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Shirley, William

Letter not found: to William Shirley, 4 April 1756. On 16 May 1756 Shirley wrote to Horatio Sharpe: “Three Days ago I was favour’d with your Letter dated the 10th of April inclosing one from Colonel Washington to me dated the 4th together with another from yourself dated the 14th of the same month” (Lincoln, Shirley CorrespondenceCharles Henry Lincoln, ed. Correspondence of William Shirley: Governor of Massachusetts and Military Commander in America, 1731-1760. 2 vols. New York, 1912., 2:446–47).


Title: Orders, 7 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To:

Winchester: Wednesday, the 7th April, 1756.

Colonel Washington orders a Return to be given in immediately of the number of Recruits in Town; their arms and Clothes.
After Orders.
A Subaltern and twenty men to parade immediately to march to Joseph Edwards’s. The Officer to see that the Party is provided well with ammunition.
Lieutenant Blagg for this Command: who will receive his Orders from the aid de camp.


Title: From George Washington to John Blagg, 7 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Blagg, John

[Winchester, 7 April 1756]
To Lieutenant Blagg, of the Virginia Regiment.

You are Hereby ordered to proceed with the party under your command, with the utmost expedition to Joseph Edwards’s on Great Capecapon; where you are to remain, and endeavour to procure what intelligence you can, and transmit to me from time to time. I would by no means have you go in pursuit of the Enemy, unless you are joined by such parties of the Militia, as you judge from the intelligence you may receive, may be able to drive them off; and even in that case, you are not to pursue them too far from your Station, until you receive further Orders from me.
You must endeavour to keep the inhabitants of the place together, as much as possible; to keep them quiet; and afford them all the assistance you can in compliance with your Orders.
You are to endeavour to keep a communication open with Ensign Hubbard at Enochs; who must transmit what intelligence he receives of the Enemy. and if you think it of consequence, you are immediately to let me know. Above all things, I must recommend to you dilgence and care to guard against any Surprize. Given under my Hand, April 7th 1756.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 7 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

[Winchester, 7 April 1756]
To the Honorable Robert Dinwiddie. Governor of Virginia.Honorable Sir,

I arrived here yesterday and think it advisable to dispatch an

Express (notwithstanding I hear two or three are already sent down) to inform you of the unhappy situation of Affairs on this Quarter. The Enemy have returned in greater numbers; committed several murders not far from Winchester; and even are so daring as to attack our Forts in open day; as your Honor may see by the enclosed Letters and papers. Many of the Inhabitants are in a miserable situation by their losses, and so apprehensive of danger that, I believe, unless a stop is put to the depredations of the Indians; the Blue-Ridge will soon become our Frontier.
I find it impossible to continue on to Fort Cumberland until a Body of men can be raised: in order to do which I have advised with Lord Fairfax and other Officers of the Militia, who have Ordered each Captain to call a private muster, and to read the Exhortation enclosed (for Orders are no longer regarded in this County) in hopes that this expedient may meet with the wished-for success; If it should, I shall, with such men as are ordered from Fort Cumberland to join these, scour the Woods and suspected places, in all the mountains, valleys, &c. on this part of our Frontiers; and doubt not but I shall fall in with the Indians and their more cruel Associates! I hope the present emergency of Affairs, assisted by such good news as the Assembly may by this time have received from England, and the Commissioners, will determine them to take vigorous measures for their own and Country’s Safety; and no longer depend on an uncertain way, of raising men for their own protection. However absurd it may appear, it is nevertheless certain, that five hundred Indians have it more in their power to annoy the Inhabitants, than ten times their number of Regulars. For, besides the advantageous way they have of fighting in the Woods, their cunning and craft are not to be equalled; neither their activity and indefatigable Sufferings: They prowl about like Wolves; and like them, do their mischief by Stealth—They depend upon their dexterity in hunting, and upon the Cattle of the Inhabitants for provisions. For which reason I own, I do not think it unworthy the notice of the Legislature to compel the Inhabitants (if a General War is likely to ensue, and things to continue in this unhappy situation for any time) to live in Townships, working at each others Farms by turn: and to drive their Cattle

into the thick settled parts of the Country. Were this done, they could not be cut off by small parties—and large ones could not subsist without provisions.
It seemed to be the Sentiments of the House of Burgesses when I was down, that a chain of Forts should be erected upon our Frontiers for the defence of the people: This expedient, in my opinion, will never, without an inconceivable number of men, answer their expectations.
I doubt not but your Honor has had a particular account of Major Lewis’s unsuccessful attempt to get to the Shawneese Town—It was an Expedition, from the length of the march, I own, I always had little expectation off; and often expressed my uneasy apprehensions on that head. But since they are returned with the Indians that accompanied them, I think it would be a very happy step to prevail upon the latter to proceed as far as Fort Cumberland. It is in their power to be of infinite use to us; and without Indians, we shall never be able to cope with those cruel Foes to our Country.
I would therefore beg leave to recommend in a very earnest manner, that your Honor would send an Express to them immediately, for this desirable end. I should have done it myself, but was uncertain whether it might prove agreeable or not. I also hope, your Honor will order Major Lewis to secure his Guides; as I understand he attributes all his misfortunes to their misconduct—Such offences as those, should meet with adequate punishment, else we may ever be misled by designing Villains. I am your Honors &c.

G:W.

Winchester, April 7th 1756.
Since writing the above, Mr. Paris, who commanded a Party, as per enclosed list, is returned; who relates that, upon the North-River he fell in with a small body of Indians which he engaged, and after a dispute of half an hour, put them to flight—Monsieur Donville, commander of the party, was killed and scalped, and his Instructions found about him; which I enclose. We had one man killed, and two wounded—Mr Paris sends the Scalp by Jenkins; and I hope, although it is not an Indians, they will meet with an adequate reward, at least, as the Monsieurs is of much more consequence.

The whole party jointly claim the reward; no person pretending solely to assume the merit.
Your Honor may in some measure penetrate into the daring designs of the French by their Instructions; where Orders are given to burn, if possible, our Magazine at Conogochieg, a place that is in the midst of a thick settled Country.
I have Ordered the party there, to be made as strong as time, and our present circumstances will afford, for fear they should attempt to execute the Orders of Dumas. I have also ordered up an Officer and twenty Recruits to assist Joseph Edwards and the people on those waters. The people of this Town are under dreadful apprehensions of an attack; and all the Roads between this and Fort Cumberland, are much infested. As I apprehend you will be obliged to draught men, I hope care will be taken that none are chosen but active, resolute men—men, who are practised to arms, and are marksmen. I also hope, that a good many more will be taken than what are requisite to complete our Numbers to what the Assembly design to establish; as many of those we have got are really, in a manner unfit for Duty; and were received more through necessity than choice; and will very badly bear a re-examination. Another thing I would beg leave to recommend; and that is, that such men as are Draughted, should be only taken for a time: by which means we shall get better men, and which will in all probability stay with us.


Title: Enclosure: Jean-Daniel Dumas to Alexandre d’Agneau Douville, 23 March 1756
From: Dumas, Jean-Daniel
To: Douville, Alexandre d’Agneau

[Fort Duquesne, 23 March 1756]

Dumas Capitaine d’infanterie Commandt—De la Belle Riviere Et ses dependances.
Il Est Ordonnie au sieur douville Enseigne En second de partie à la tête d’un detachment de Cinquante sauvages pour aller observer les mouvemens des Ennemis sur les derrieres du fort Cumberlan.
Il Satachera à harceler leurs Convois et tentera de Bruler leurs magazins de Canagiechuic si Cette Expédition Est practicable.
Il ne négligera Rien pour faire quelques prisoniérs qui puissent

nous Confirmer Ce que nous savons dèja des dessins de Lennemi.
Le Sieur douville Employera touts ses talents et tout son Crédit à Empecher Les sauvages duzes d’auccune Cruauté sur Ceux qui tomberont Entre leurs mains L’honneur Et Lhumanité doivent En Cela vous servir deguide.
Fait au fort Duquesne Le 23 Mars 1756

Dumas


Title: From George Washington to Adam Stephen, 7 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Stephen, Adam

[Winchester, 7 April 1756]
To Lieutenant Colonel Stephen. of the Virginia Regiment, at Fort Cumberland.Sir,

I am very much surprized to hear that the Officers with the Detachments from Fort Cumberland, are returned without

meeting with the Enemy: as they were committing their depredations and cruelties in all parts at that time, even as low as Sleepy-Creek. It is determined here by Lord Fairfax and others of the militia, that a number of them shall be raised to march out and scour the Country—They are to rendezvous here this day Sennight; and I shall march them up immediately to Enochs’s; where I order that you immediately detach one hundred, or an hundred and fifty men, under proper Officers, to join me there. I desire you will order Captain Gist when he comes, down to Connongochieg again for the Stores, to procure a sufficient number of Battoes and Canoes, to take them all up at one Trip: as it will be less fatiguing for the men, and more secure.
You must see that the party you send down have their arms in very good order, and are well supplied with ammunition and Provision. Send down about five hundred spare flints, and some cartridge-paper. I am &c.

G:W.
Winchester, April 7th 1756.


Title: Commission, 7 April 1756
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

[Williamsburg, 7 April 1756]

Robert Dinwiddie Esqr His Majesty’s Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia.
To George Washington Esqr:
By Virtue of the Power and Authority to me given and granted by His Majesty I do hereby authorize and impower You to hold and appoint Courts Martial for the Tryal of Non-commissioned Officers and Soldiers as Colonel and Commander in

Chief of the Virginia Regiment for all Crimes and Offences whatsoever pursuant to the Act of Assembly, for punishing Mutiny and Desertion And for so doing this shall be Your Warrant. Given under my Hand and Seal this Seventh day of April 1756.

Robt Dinwiddie

By the Governor’s CommandWm Withers Secretary


Title: George Mercer to Robert Rutherford, 8 April 1756
From: Mercer, George
To: Rutherford, Robert

To the Commissary
[Winchester, 8 April 1756]

Deliver Major Hite what arms, ammunition, &c. he may want, for the party going under his command against the Indians; he passing his Receipt for the arms, and obliging himself to deliver them again into the Store here, unless the men are killed by the Enemy, and the arms lost by that means.

G:M. Aid de camp.
April 8th 1756.


Title: George Mercer to Robert Rutherford, 8 April 1756
From: Mercer, George
To: Rutherford, Robert

To the Commissary
[Winchester, 8 April 1756]

Deliver Sergeant Hughes one days provision for ten men; one Tent, some cartridge paper, and three pair of Shoes for his Detachment.

G:M. Aid de camp.
April 8th 1756.


Title: George Mercer to John Blagg, 8 April 1756
From: Mercer, George
To: Blagg, John

[Winchester, 8 April 1756]
To Lieutenant John Blagg. of the Virginia Regiment.Sir,

As there is a stronger party of the militia now to join you than was expected, Colonel Washington Orders, that, if upon a consultation with the Inhabitants of the place and the officers of the Militia, it is thought best to pursue the Enemy, you join them with your party. You are to observe your first Orders, to send all the intelligence you can procure of the Enemy. I am &c.

G:M. Aid de camp.
April 8th 1756.


Title: From George Washington to David Bell, 8 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Bell, David

[Winchester, 8 April 1756]

To Captain David Bell. of the Virginia Regiment.
You are Hereby Ordered to proceed immediately to Conogochege;

and are there to take upon you the Command of the Troops now stationed there, for defence of the Stores, &c.—You are to endeavour with all possible expedition, to procure a sufficient number of Batteaus and Canoes (assisted by those which are already gone up with Captain Gist) to transport all the Stores up at one Trip. You are to endeavour to get every thing in readiness to embark as soon as possible after the return of Captain Gist; whom you are to join with your party, except a Subaltern and twenty men; and escort all the Stores safely up. You are to order down two or three Evidences to Assizes at Frederick-Town, on the fifth day of May next; to attend the trial of the person who it is said killed Mr Gordon. I would have Sergeant Hughes (if he can be spared from the Troop) sent as one. and you must give him Orders to apprehend all the Deserters which he may hear of in those parts before he returns.
I would recommend it to you, to guard against any Surprize from the Enemy; and endeavour as much as possible to prevent your men from desertion: and if any should desert; I desire that you may use all possible means to apprehend them. Given at Winchester, April 8th 1756.

Go:W.


Title: Orders, 9 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To:

Bedford.
Winchester: Friday, April 9th 1756.

A Regimental Court Martial to sit immediately to enquire whether John Hogan, and William Bond, are guilty of the crimes laid to their charge—and to try the Sentinel, who let William Field, who was confined for desertion, escape from the Guard. Captain Peachy, President.
The Officers to see that the Recruits now in Town are exercised twice every day: They are to order all the men to appear under arms at Retreat and Revilé Beating; to have the Rolls called and see that they have their arms and ammunition in good order. The Troops now in this Town are to receive three days provision, at ten of the clock this Day. John Bruner, of the Troop of Light Horse, having deserted, and procured another man to serve in his stead, is discharged.


Title: From George Washington to Robert Hunter Morris, 9 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Morris, Robert Hunter

Dear Sir
[Winchester, 9 April 1756]

I had scarce reachd Williamsburg, before an express was after me with news of the French & Indians advancing within our Settlements, and doing incredable mischief to the Inhabitants which obligd me to postpone my business there, and hurry to their assistance with all expedition: when I came to this place I found everythings in deep confusion: and the poor distressd Inhabitants under a general consternation. I therefore collected such force as I coud immediately raise, and sent them in such parties, and to such places as twas judged most likely to meet with the Enemy: one of which, under the command of Mr Paris, luckily fell in with a small body of them as they were surrounding a small Fort on the No. River of Cacapehon; whom they engagd, and (after half an hour’s close firing) put to flight with the loss of their commander Monsr Donville (killd) & three or four more mortally wounded. The accident that has determined the fate of Monsieur; has, I believe, dispers’d his Party: for I dont hear of any mischief done in this Colony since, thô we are not without numbers who are makeing hourly discoverys.
I have sent you a copy of the Instructions that were found about this Officer: that you may see how bold and enterprising the Enemy have grown, how unconfind are thes ambitious design’s of the French: and how much it will be in their power, (if the Colonys continue in their fatal Lethargy) to give a final stab to liberty, & Property.
Nothing I more sincerely wish than a union to the Colonys in this time of Eminent danger: and that you may find your assembly in a temper of mind to act consistently with their preservation. What Maryland has, or will do I know not: but this I am certain off, that Virginia will do every thing that can be expected to promote the publick good.
I went to Williamsburg fully resolved to resign my Commission, but was disswaded from it, at least for a time. If the hurry of business in which I know your honour is genlly engagd: will admit of an oppertunity to murder a little time in writing to me. I shoud receive the favour as a mark of that esteem, which I coud wish to merit, by shewing at all times when its in my

power, how much I am Dear Sir Yr honours most Obt & most Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. A Letter this instant arriving from Williamsburg, informs, that our Assembly have voted 20,000£s more and that their Forces shd be increas’d to 2000 Men. a laudable example this, and I hope not a singular one.
The inclosed to Colo. Gage I beg the favr of you to forward.


Title: Orders, 11–12 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To:

Dedham.
Winchester: Sunday, April 11th 1756.

Epsom.
Winchester: Monday, April 12 1756.

The Officers are to examine the arms, ammunition, &c. of the men, immediately. They are to have all the muskets discharged by some good marksman, in order to see if they are straight, those that are not, are immediately to be carried to the Smith to put them in order. They must also examine the locks and ram-rods, and see that they are fit for Service—They must see that all the men are complete with good cartridges; those that are not, must receive to night at Retreat Beating; and each must have two good spare flints delivered to him at the same time. If there are not Cartridges sufficient in the Store to complete all the men; the Sergeants to be employed immediately in making more: and an Officer must be present to see that no waste is made.
The Troops now quartered here, are to receive four days provision to-day at ten o’clock.


Title: From George Washington to David Bell, 12 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Bell, David

[Winchester, 12 April 1756]
   To Captain David Bell. of the Virginia Regiment.

If you find it impossible to procure a sufficient number of canoes to transport the Stores at Conogchieg to Fort Cumberland at one Trip[,] you are to endeavour to engage as many as you can, to be in readiness against Captain Gists return: and then proceed with them, and those that come with Captain Gist, to Fort Cumberland. Captain Gist is to remain at Conogochieg with his Party, until further Orders. I have sent Mr Campbell a months pay, seven pounds fifteen shillings, My hurry of Business prevented me from doing last opportunity. Desire him to give credit to the pay-master for so much; as it will be charged to him. I am &c.

G:W.


Title: From George Washington to John Fenton Mercer, 12 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Mercer, John Fenton

[Winchester, 12 April 1756]
To Captain John Mercer. Commanding the Detachment from Fort Cumberland. now on Cape-Capon Waters.Sir,

If this overtakes you on cape-capon, or any of its waters, you are immediately to return to Joseph Edwards’s, on Great Cape-capon: and there wait with your party, until you receive further orders from me.
You are, immediately upon your arrival at J. Edwards’s, to make a Return, and dispatch it by Express immediately to me at this place; of the number your party consists of; and how they are provided with arms, ammunitions, provision, &c. I am &c.

G:W.
April 12th 1756.


Title: Orders, 14 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To:

Gosport.
Winchester, Wednesday, April 14th 1756.


Title: From George Washington to David Bell, 14–15 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Bell, David

[Winchester, 14–15 April 1756]
To Captain David Bell, at Conogochieg.Sir,

It is my Orders that you send out Scouting Parties of the Light Horse as often as it can possibly be done, without too much fatiguing them. And you must order them to scour the Woods round for six or seven miles: as I am informed they never proceeded more than three or four miles upon any of their Scouts, heretofore.

G:W.


Title: George Mercer to Robert Rutherford, 14–15 April 1756
From: Mercer, George
To: Rutherford, Robert

To the Commissary.
[Winchester, 14–15 April 1756]

It is Colonel Washingtons orders, that you load a Waggon immediately with provision, and send it off to Joseph Edwards’s, for the party there. I am &c.

G:M. aid de camp.


Title: To George Washington from William Fairfax, 14 April 1756
From: Fairfax, William
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Wmsburg 14 April 1756

Yr Letter to the Governor has been read in Council, but as no Shipping has arriv’d since your Departure the Genl Assembly is at some Loss what to propose, debate on and finish—Some Jealousies interrupt the good Agreement wisht for—Your Appointment of an Aid de Camp & Secretary is thought extraordinary and think the Committee will not allow Pay for—The Ho. of Burgesses adjourn to Monday next hoping Some London Ship may bring Us Intelligence of our public Affairs whereon to Act—Mr Fielding Lewis now here tells Us the Indians since the Scalping of the Sieur Domville have made another Attack, cut off a Family burnt the House &c. which has added to the former Panic, prevaild to make Colo. Wood & Family desert his Fortification & Plantation to the great Discouragement of Others. I hope the Cash Mr Kirkpatrick carrys will enable You to keep your Soldiers in due Obedience and make all possible Efforts towards repelling & vanquishing the restless Enemy of our Country. Will not the Marylanders act against our common Invaders! who come over Potomack from their Province which They first pass through—Major Dobbs returnd th’other Day to his Father whence He is to proceed wth two hundred Soldiers to N. York there to receive Genl Shirley’s Orders—who if not assisted Soon from Home is unlikely to begin the concerted Operations wth Success.
Mr Lewis told Me It was expected Yr Brother John would be married this Day. We wish He may soon carry his Bride to Mount Vernon to make that Neighbourhood more agreable to Belvoir and Beneficial to You.
It’s talked of among the Burgesses that an Enquiry is intended relating to the Misbehaviour of some of your Officers—whilst enlisting or pretending to Enlist Men and discharging them at Pleasure.
For particulars I refer to Mr Kirkpatrick and remain wishing You all Happiness Dr Sr Yr very affecte Friend & obedt Servt

W: Fairfax


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Walker, 14 April 1756
From: Walker, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sr:
Williamsburg April the 14 1756

As The Committee have not Settled my accounts with Mr Kilpaterick I shall endeavour to settle them my self, for the following reasons to wit. As I have the Vouchers here it will be attended with trouble & Hazard to carry them up to fort Cumberland, & when that is done they must be brought here again. The Road from the blue ridge to the Fort being at this time dangerous is a further reason for should I be cut of or my Vouchers lost my Family might suffer much and further I expect it will be agreable to you as it will save you the Trouble of Settling with the Committee, after Settling with me. I should much rather choose to settle with you than that Set of Gentlemen, was it not for the reasons above mentioned. As what I have wrote is truth & though in my plain way hope no apology is necessary. As soon as my accounts are Settled I shall proced to you as fast as possible and in the mean time you may assure your self nothing in my Power shall be wanting for the good of the Common Cause & Honour of every worthy Individual of the Virginia Regiment I hope the deligence of my assistants will prevent my absence being of the least ill consequence to the Common Cause. That the Governour of all things May Protect, & Direct you, is the Prayer of Your Most Humble Servant

Thomas Walker


Title: George Mercer to Reuben Vass, 15 April 1756
From: Mercer, George
To: Vass, Reuben

[Winchester, 15 April 1756]
   To Sergeant Reuben Vass—of the Virginia Regiment.

You are hereby Ordered with your party to escort a Waggon with provision, &c. to Joseph Edwards’s, for the men there.
You are to be particularly careful, that nothing is taken or lost out of the Waggon, while under your care; as a particular account will be transmitted to Captain Mercer of the load—and you are to be as expeditious as possible in getting up. When you arrive there, you are with your party to join that, under the command of Captain John Mercer. Given at Winchester, April 15th 1756.

G:M. Aid de camp.


Title: George Mercer to John Fenton Mercer, 15 April 1756
From: Mercer, George
To: Mercer, John Fenton

To Captain John Mercer, at Edwards’s.
[Winchester, 15 April 1756]

As Colonel Washington has great reason to believe, from some accounts he has received, that the Indians now rendezvous, and have their prisoners on the back of the Warm-spring mountain.
You are hereby ordered to march with the men under your

command; a Draught from Lieutenant Blagg’s Party (leaving only a Sergeant and ten men at Edwards’s) the party under Sergeant Vass, who brings up the provisions, immediately in quest of them. You are to go by Enoch’s Fort, and there Draught from Ensign Hubbards command; leaving the same number in that Fort, as at Edwards’s.
You are to endeavour to procure some good woods-men, who are acquainted with the place, to guide your Party.
When you are ready to march from Enochs’s; you are to send before you some persons, well acquainted with the place, as Spies: Henry Enoch would be one very good, if you could get him.
Let them go as privately as possible; and if they discover them, endeavour to surprize them. Do not fail to procure men who are acquainted with the place, at any rate; and scour the woods thereabouts well. After which return to Edwards’s (leaving Ensign Hubbards party at their Station) and there wait until Colonel Washington arrives; or you receive further Orders. You will receive twenty-five pair of Shoes and Stockings to fit your party: Be very careful that they are only delivered to them that want them: and to take an account of their names, and the Companies they belong to—that stoppages may be made. You must be careful also, that no waste is made of the provision; and give the Sergeant you leave behind, a particular charge of it. Keep as little noise as possible on your march; and do not let the Drum be beat—while in quest of them. Yours

G:M. Aid de camp.
April 15th 1756.


Title: To George Washington from Robert Dinwiddie, 15 April 1756
From: Dinwiddie, Robert
To: Washington, George

Sir
Williamsburg Apr. 15th 1756

Your Letter by Jenkins I recd & it’s now before the House of Burgesses. I have reason to expect they will pass a Law for a

Draught from the Militia to augment the Forces to 2000 tho’ they are very slow in their Proceedings.
I am very sorry for the Acct You give of those Miscreant barbarous Murders; I hope You have sent a proper Reinforcemt to Conegachege, & for the present, with the assistance of Lord Fairfax, raise as many of the Militia as You may see necessary, till the Act of Assembly passes for Draughts from the Militia.
I am endeavouring to prevail with the Cherokees to have a number of them sent to the Fort, but they also are very tedious in their Consultations, but I hope to prevail with them to send forty or fifty.
I am extremely hurried must therefore be excused writing further, but sincerely wishing You Health & Protection from the Banditti I remain Sir Your most humble Servt

Robt Dinwiddie


Title: From George Washington to Robert Dinwiddie, 16 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To: Dinwiddie, Robert

Honorable Sir
Winchester April 16th 1756

All my Ideal hopes, of raising a Number of Men, to scour the adjacent Mountains, have vanished into Nothing. Yesterday was the appointed Time, for a general Rendezvous of all who were willing to accompany Me, for that desirable End; and only 15 appeared: so that I find myself reduced, to the farther Necessity, of waiting at this Place a few Days longer, till the Arrival of a Party, which was ordered from Fort Cumberland, to escort Me up; the Roads being so infested that none but Hunters who travel the Woods by Night, can pass in Safety.
I have done every Thing in my Power, to quiet the Minds of the Inhabitants, by detaching all the Men that I have any Command over, to the Places, which are most exposed: there have also been large Detachments from Fort Cumberland, in Pursuit of the Enemy these 10 Days Past; & yet nothing I fear will prevent them, from abandoning their Dwellings, and flying with the utmost Precipitation.
There have been no Murders committed since I came up; but the Express I sent to Colo. Stephen (notwithstanding he was an excellent Woodsman, & a very active Fellow) was fired upon 5 Times, at a place called the Flats, within 6 Miles of Fort Cumberland: He had several Balls thro. his Coat, and his Horse shot under him, yet made his Escape from Them.
By a Letter from a Gent. in WmsBurg, we are informed, that the Assembly have generously given the further Sum of £20,000, and voted the augmenting our Forces to 2000 Men, which is a Number that under good Regulations, We may have some Expectation from, if they are properly appointed; for which Purpose as I have never heard your Honour offer your Opinion, I have been free enough, to project a scheme, which is now inclosed, to have the whole 2000 formed into one Regiment, consisting of two Battalions, of ten Companies each, with five field Officers, each of which to have a Company; & every other Company to consist of 1 Captain, 2 Lieutenants, one Ensign, 4 Serjeants, 4 Corporals, 2 Drums, & 87 private Men, which will save the Country the annual Sum of £5006.16.8. and We be better appointed, and established more after the British Manner, than We now are, or shoud be, if formed into two Regiments,

or one Regiment with only 50 Men in a Company and I humbly concieve, where We can pattern after our Mother Country, upon as easy Terms, as pursuing Plans of our own, tha[t] We shoud at least pay that Deference to her Judgment, & Experience[.] By the Scheme I proposed, of forming the Regiment into two Battalions, & of encreasing the Number of Men in a Company to 87 Private, the Country will save the Pay of many commissioned, as well as Noncommissioned officers, who are the Persons that enhance the Expence; for the whole annual Pay of the 2000 Men, including all the Staff Officers, as well as other Commissioned Officers, Serjeants, Corporals, Drums, & private Men, amounts only to £34,145.10.0—whereas were they formed into two Regiments, or one Regiment, of Fifty’s (but that woud be quite incongruous) the Expence, woud amount to £39,152.6.8—which make the aforesaid Difference of £5006.16.8. Then again, We do not allow our Field Offrs Companies, which I believe is the only Instance that can be given, where they are not; & this makes the Difference of three Captains Pay, for the Country allows in the same Proportion.
I have been free enough to offer my opinion very candidly; and in that Light I hope it will be received; tho. it may meet with your Honours Approbation, I had no other Motive in proposing this Scheme, but the pleasing Hope of serving the Country; if I have mistaken the Means, I am sorry for it, & beg pardon for my Presumption.
As I am convinced that no other Method can be used to raise 2000 Men, but by draughting; I hope to be excused, when I again repeat, how great Care shoud be observed in choosing active Marksmen; the manifest Inferiority of inactive Persons, unused to Arms, in this Kind of Service (tho. equal in Numbers) to lively Persons, who have practised hunting, is inconceivable; the Chance against them is more than two to one.
Another Thing I hope will merit the Consideration of the Assembly, and that is that they will put all such Men as are raised for the Expedition, & in actual Pay; under the same Discipline that ours are at present; otherwise I am very well convinced their good Intentions will prove abortive, and all the Draughts quit the Service, as soon or before they are brought into it. I dont concieve it to be a Hardship, to put even Draughts under Martial Law, if they are only taken for a certain Time, which I

coud wish to be the Case, as I thereby hope for better Men. I am Your Honour’s most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. I have a brother that has long discoverd an Inclination to enter the Service; but has till this, been disswaded from it by my Mother, who now I beleive will give consent. I must therefore beg, that if your honour shoud issue any new Commissions before I come down that you will think of him & reserve a Lieutenancy. I flatter myself that he will endeavour to deserve it as well as some that have, & other’s that may get. I am Yr honour’s most obt

G. Washington


Title: Enclosure I, 16 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To:

[c.16 April 1756]

Scheme for forming the Quota of Virga Troops 2000 into two Battalions of ten Companies each as the best & chexapest Method Officers following

                  Pay
                  pr
                  Day

                  1
                  Colonel who is to have the Command of the whole & have a Compa.
                  £1
                  10.
                  0

                  2
                  Lieut. Colonels for 1st & 2d Battalion each a Company each

                  17.
                  6

                  2
                  Majors—with Companies also

                  15.
                  0

                  15
                  Captains each a Company

                  10.
                  0

                  1
                  Capt. Lieut. to command the Colonels Company, rank as Captain and paid as Lieutenant

                  5.
                  0

                  19
                  First Lieuts. for the 19 remaining Companies each

                  5.
                  0

                  20
                  Second Lieuts.

                           1 for each Companyeach

                  4.
                  6

                  20
                  Ensigns
                  1 for each Company

                  4.
                  0

                  80
                  Serjeants
                  4 to each Company

                  1.
                  4

                  80
                  Corporals
                  4 to each Company

                  1.
                  0

                  40
                  Drums
                  2 to each Company

                  10

                  1740
                  Private Men
                  87 to each Company

                  8d.

By this Scheme there woud be 20 Companies 5 of which to be commanded by the Field Officers the other 15 by Captains the Establishment of each Company woud then be—

                  1
                  Captain—@ 10/⅌ Day amounts ⅌ anm to

                  £182.
                  10.
                  0

                  1
                  First Lieut.—@ 5/

                  91.
                  5.
                  0

                  1
                  Second Lieut.—@ 4/6

                  82.
                  2.
                  6

                  1
                  Ensign—@ 4/

                  73.
                  0.
                  0

                  4
                  Serjeants each 1/4

                  97.
                  6.
                  8

                  4
                  Corporals each 1/

                  73.
                  0.
                  0

                  2
                  Drums—10d.

                  30.
                  4.
                  4

                  87
                  Private Men & B[at] Men 8d.

                  1058.
                  10.
                  0

                  £1687.
                  18.
                  6

                  Fifteen Companies at the same Rate only in Regard to the Difference between the Field Officers & Captains, but that included the Pay for the 20 Companies with all the Commissioned Officers amounts ⅌ Annum to
                  }
                  33,561.
                  10.
                  0

                  Staff Officers Pay for the 2 Battalions will be
                  584.
                  0.
                  0

                  Pay for the whole ⅌ Annum amts to
                  £34,145.
                  10.
                  0


Title: Orders, 16 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To:

Inverness.
Winchester: Friday, April 16th 1756.

A Court martial to sit immediately for trial of John Garland and Thomas Hope, confined for fighting.
Lieutenant Gist is to give in a Return immediately of the Recruits he brought to Town last night: with their names, age, size, &c. Sergeant Clunis to see that the man who is employed in straightening the arms, keep close to his Business; and is to order him all the assistance he can. The Troops to receive three days provision to-day at ten o’clock.


Title: Orders, 17 April 1756
From: Washington, George
To:

Kendal.
Winchester: Saturday, April 17th 1756.