Title: To George Washington from Patrick Henry, 6 December 1777
From: Henry, Patrick
To: Washington, George

Sir
Wmsburgh Decr 6th 1777

Inclosed I have the Honor to transmit you an Accot of Necessarys sent off in nine Waggons, for the Virginia Regiments in continental Service. The goods have been deliver’d Colo. Finnie the Quarter Master, & he has put them under the Escort of Leiutent Mennis & a party of Soldiers, who I trust will deliver them safely. It is my Wish that the Troops of Virginia shall have them. I also send a List of some other Articles—cheifly Linens, that will shortly set out from our public Store for the same Uses.
Added to this Supply, 15,000 £ worth of Woollens &c. proper for the Soldiers will set out from petersburgh in a few Days. These last are procured under an Act of Assembly empowering me to Seize Necessarys

for our Troops wherever they may be found. I have given orders in Consequence, to proper persons in different parts of the State, which I expect will produce many Necessarys, if not enough for the Virga Troops. Orders are sent to both Carolina’s for Blankets particularly & Soldiers Clothes & nothing possible for me to effect, will be left undone in getting whatever the Troops are in Want of.
I should be more particular as to the Goods Seized, but the Commissioners have as yet sent me no distinct Account of their proceedings. If it happens that the Wants of your Army are supply’d in any short Time, I beg to know it, that the Execution of the present Law for seizing Goods may be stopped.
I take the Liberty to send under Cover to your Excellency two Letters from France to the Marquiss dela Fayette. One of them is from his Lady I beleive. I beg to be presented to him in the most acceptable Manner. I greatly revere his person & amiable Character.
The Lenity of your publication respecting Deserters, is very apparent. But nevertheless a great many of them are yet skulking on the eastern Shore, & really I think their Case peculiar. Their Officers took up the general opinion that their Service would be confin’d to that Shore, & promised them to remain there. Their Desertion followed upon Orders to march away. I beg Leave to observe that if your Excellency would offer them a pardon upon their Inlistment to serve this State, it would forward the general Service by enabling us to Spare so many more Troops for the grand Army. I beg Leave To Assure you of the highest Esteem & Regard with which I have the Honor to be Sir your Excellencys most obedient & very humble Servant

P. Henry


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Lewis Nicola, 6 December 1777
From: Nicola, Lewis
To: Washington, George

Sr
Trenton Decr 6th 1777.

I yesterday received an order from the Board of War to apply to your Excellency for some officers for the Regiment of Invalid, where they are much wanted as I cannot keep the men under proper discipline for want of officers which they well know. I have the honour to inclose Mr Nourses letter. Permit me to assure you that I am with respect Your Excellencies Most humle & obedt Servt

Lewis Nicola

Lieut. Robert Campbell of Col. Hazens Regt who is here & lost an arm [on] Staten island seems desirous of entering into the regiment, he says he can be well recommended & is promised to be recommended for a company now vacant in his regiment.


Title: To George Washington from Steuben, 6 December 1777
From: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, baron von
To: Washington, George

Honorable Sir,
Portsmouth [N.H., 6 December 1777]

The inclosed Copy of a Letter whose Original I Shall have the honor to present to your Excellency, will instruct you of the motives that brought me over to this Land. I shall add only to it that the Object of my greatest Ambition is to render your Country all the Services in my Power, and to deserve the title of a Citizen of America by fighting for the Cause of your Liberty.
If the distinguished Ranks I have Served in in Europe Should be an Obstacle, I had rather Serve under Your Excellency as a Volunteer, than to be a Subject of Discontent to Such deserving Officers as have already distinguished themselves amongst you.
Such being the Sentiments I always profest, I dare hope that the respectable Congress of the United States of America, will accept my Services. I could Say moreover (Were it not for the fear of offending your Modesty) that your Excellency is the only Person under whom (after having Served under the King of Prussia) I could wish to pursue an Art to which I have Wholly given up my Self.
I intend to go to Boston in a few Days where I shall present my Letters to the Honble John Hancock Esqr. Member of Congress, and there I shall wait for your Excellency’s Orders, according to which I shall take convenient Measures. I have the honor to be with respect Honorable Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient and most humble servant

Steuben


Title: General Orders, 7 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Headquarters, White Marsh [Pa.] Decr 7th 1777.
Parole Manchester.Co. Signs Newburry. Oxford.


Title: General Orders, 8 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, White Marsh [Pa.] Decr 8th 1777.
Parole Lexington.C. Signs Bunker Hill. Stillwater.

The Commander in Chief returns his warmest thanks to Col. Morgan, and the officers and men of his intrepid corps, for their gallant behaviour in the several skirmishes with the enemy yesterday—He hopes the most spirited conduct will distinguish the whole army, and gain them a just title to the praises of their country, and the glory due to brave men—They will remember, that they are engaged in the cause of humanity and of freedom, and that the period is probably at hand, when, by their noble and generous exertions, the Liberties & Independence of America shall be firmly established.
The General with pleasure has been informed that the Militia of Maryland under Colonel Gist, shewed in yesterday’s skirmishes a spirit becoming freemen, and which claims his sincere acknowledgements.
The enemy remaining quiet, the officers are to be particularly attentive that the men draw and cook their provisions, that they may be ever ready for service.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Horatio Gates, 8 December 1777
From: Gates, Horatio
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Albany December 8th 1777

I shall not attempt to describe what, as a private Gentleman, I cannot help feeling, on representing to my Mind, the disagreeable Situation,

which confidential Letters, when exposed to public Inspection, may place an unsuspecting Correspondent to; but, as a public Officer, I conjure your Excellency, to give me all the Assistance you can, in tracing out the Author of the Infedelity, which put Extracts from General Conway’s Letters to me, into your Hands. Those Letters have been stealingly copied; but, which of them, when, or by whom, is to me, as yet, an unfathomable Secret.
There is not one Officer in my Suite, nor amongst those who have a free Access to me, upon whom I could, with the least Justification to myself, fix the Suspicion; and yet, my Uneasiness may deprive me of the Usefulness of the worthiest Men. It is, I believe, in your Excellency’s Power to do me, and the United States a very important Service, by detecting a Wretch, who may betray me, and capitally injure the very Operations under your immediate Direction. For this Reason, Sir, I beg your Excellency will favor me with the Proofs you can procure to that Effect. But, the Crime being, eventually, so important, that the least Loss of Time may be attended with the worst Consequences; and, it being unknown to me, whether the Letter came to you from a Member of Congress, or from an Officer, I shall have the Honor of transmitting a Copy of this to the President, that the Congress may, in Consert with your Excellency, obtain, as soon as possible, a Discovery, which so deeply affects the Safety of the States. Crimes of that Magnitude ought not to remain unpunished. I have the Honor to be, Sir, with the greatest Respect, Your Excellency’s most humble, & most obedient Servant,

Horatio Gates


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 8 December 1777
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
York [Pa.] 8th Decemr 1777

Since my last trouble of the 1st Inst. Your Excellency’s favor of that date reached me & was reported to Congress—I have at present only to transmit a Resolve of Congress of the 3d Inst. calculated for effecting the Exchange of the Baron de St Ouary now a prisoner with the Enemy in Philadelphia or to obtain for him treatment Suitable to his Rank in the french Army.
Congress have taken under consideration Genl Howe’s answer to Your Excellency’s Letter of the 14th & 23d Novemr & have determined it to be no means explicit & Satisfactory, to morrow ’tis probable a Resolve in consequence of this determination will be passed—My Duty in compliance with the Standing order of the House will not admit of detainning any longer the abovementioned Resolution I had entertained an expectation of more business for the employment of a Special Messenger otherwise Barry the bearer Should have been dispatched on Saturday.
We learn by a Letter from the Committee of the 6th Inst. that the Enemy’s main Army was in full view from our Camp & a general engagement Soon expected, I pray God to protect your Excellency & to grant you Success & Glory. I have the honour to be with utmost Respect & Esteem.


Title: To George Washington from Robert R. Livingston, 8 December 1777
From: Livingston, Robert R.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Manor of Livingston [N.Y.] 8th Decemr 1777

The favourable Sentiments which your Excellency has more than once been pleased to express of Coll Livingston both to the late Convention, & the committee of arrangement, with less effect than I had reason to hope for from their declared opinion of his merrit, & the respect due to your Excellencys recommendation, induces me to trouble you on his account, more especialy as the honour he acquired this last campaign to the northward, inables me to recommend him to your excellencys notice with the greater confidence—He distinguished himself both on the nineteenth of Septr & on the 7th of Octr where he with his regiment assulted & carried the redoubt in which the brave Genl Arnold was wounded, & has recd the warmest commendation from that galland officer under whose eye they fought. My Brother entered into the service in the first year of the war, & has during the course of it, been honoured with the approbation of your Excellency, Genl Schuyler, Genl Montgomery, & Genl Arnold, & has recd a sword from Congress together with their promise of preferment. Since which he has had the mortification to see in many instances, people inferior to him in birth, education, & military reputation as well as of less standing in the army advanced above him by a superior address in conciliating the favour of those in power an act of which he is totally ignorant (& what is still worse) disinclined to Learn.
When he returned from the last campaign he had determined to

resign his commission, & retire to his estate, but sensible that he would be a loss to the army as I know him to be judicious, spirited, & interprizing, I prevailed on him to defer it, till the end of the winter by which time I hoped that something might be done for him, especially as he would then have an honor of which he has always been ambitious that of fighting under your Excellency’s more immediate command.
As I can not help believing that he would soon distinguish himself & render important service to his Country, at the head of a partizan corps, if it consisted of nothing more than his own regiment augmented by about 250 drafts, 50 horse & 100 light infantry under active officers, I can not help soliciting your Excellency’s recommendation of him for that purpose to the board of war, by whom any plan which your excellency shall approve will doubtless be adopted. I have written to one or two of my friends there on the subject, but wd not wish them to take any step in it without your Excellency’s recommendation. I shd not have given you this trouble, had I not been encouraged there by the friendship with which your excellency has been pleased to honour me, & prompted by the hope of serving the community while I seconded the wishes of my Brother, whom I have always hitherto left to be recommended meerly by his own conduct. I have the Honor to be with the greatest Respect & esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Hum: Servt

Robt R. Livingston


Title: To George Washington from Patrick Henry, 9 December 1777
From: Henry, Patrick
To: Washington, George

Sir.
Wmsburgh Decr 9th 1777

An Act of the general Assembly passed last Year empowering me to appoint some proper person to reinlist the Virginia Troops. I did appoint General Stephen, & several Letters passed between us upon the Subject, and by an Extract of a Letter from him to me which I inclose, it appears considerable Progress was made by him in that Business.
I have heard that General Stephen is no longer in Service; and I trouble your Excellency with this, requesting the Favor of you to be pleased to give me soon as possible, a State of the Inlistments that are made of those Troops, that some Means may be thought of for supplying such Deficiency as may happen by the refusal of some of the men to reinlist. In the mean Time in order that the Business may not be totally stopped, I have written to Generals Woodford, Scot, Weedon, &

Muhlenburgh to proceed in finishing so much of that Work as General Stephen left unfinished.
As this Matter is of great Importance to the Service, I wish for its Completion very much, and should be obliged to your Excellency to inform me whether you think any other plan can be adopted more likely to succeed.
I was honor’d with a confidential Letter from your Excellency for which I return you my Thanks.
Perhaps if the State of the Virginia Regiments was known to the Assembly it might induce some Measure for recruiting them. With the highest Regard I have the Honor to be Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient & very humble Servant

P. Henry


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General William Maxwell, 9 December 1777
From: Maxwell, William
To: Washington, George

Sir
White Marsh [Pa.] 9th Decmr 1777

The Enemy having returned ingloriously and the season far advanced makes it necessary that the Troops should be fixed to some place for the Winter. I have now thought proper to mention to Your Excellency, a subject that I once tuched on before, which was, that it was absolutely necessary to relieve the Jersey Militia from their constant duty, by Continental Troops to enable them to fill up their full quotas for the Continental service. and it would give life and spirit to the Militia when called on more pressing occasions. I would likewise beg leave to mention some of the difficulties, the Jersey State Laboured under in filling up her quota last winter. Viz. that almost every State was recruiting her Troops, the Artillery many, the light Horse, the 16 Regiments, Artificers, and Waggoners, &ca. Besides this her Troops was sent into the field by Companys or less as they could be raised, and the

Seat of War in their state. Notwithstanding all these inconveniencies I do presume to say, that the Jersey State had it’s quota as near compleat as some of the first States in the Continent and I think I may venture to say that if they are not harrased this winter, they will compleat their quota; and Cloath them well. The necessaty of sending some Continental Troops to the Jersey, I dar say appear to your Excellency verry reasonable; but whether it shall be her own Troops or that of a nother state is the question. I must allow that for any other duty save that of recruiting and Cloathing I would prefer the Troops of another State in General. but for these most necessary articles of recruiting Cloathing and recovering the sick, I must give the preferance to their own Troops, and if there was a little indulgence in it, I do not think Your Excellency will think the Jersey State undeserving. I submit the affair to Your Excellencys better Judgment and am Your Most Obedient Humble Servant

Wm Maxwell


Title: General Orders, 10 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, White Marsh [Pa.] Decr 10th 1777.
Parole Worcester.C. Signs Rutland. Salisbury.

The army to march at four o’clock in the morning from the right—A Subaltern from each regiment and a Captain from each brigade, under the command of a Field Officer from the line, are to assemble at General Knox’s quarters in the morning and remain ’till the Army moves off the ground, and then see that all stragglers in the camp, and its environs, are collected and marched after it—They are also to see that no baggage, entrenching tools or other articles are left, or that they are, secured under proper guards taken from the pennsylvania Militia, by application to the commanding officer thereof.


Title: To George Washington from Ephraim Blaine, 10 December 1777
From: Blaine, Ephraim
To: Washington, George

May it please your Excellency
Camp [Whitemarsh, Pa.]Decemr 10th 1777

Pursuant to your Excellencys order of the 21st Ulto I proceeded to Jerseys to procure flour or Wheat for bread for the army and also directed part thereof for the purpose of Loading Waggons orderd by the Commissary General to the Eastward, for Salt: being disapointed in a quantity of flour I expected at Easton for that purpose. Mr Robert Willson my assistant purchaser at Hacketts town appointed to attend this business writes me of the 5th decemr Ins’t that Mr Robert Lettis Hooper Deputy Quarter Mr General has seized all the wheat procurred for the above purpose, and thereby put a stop to the procuring therein, which to me appears not only unwarrantable conduct in Mr Hooper, but so injurious to the service in general as to merit your Excellencys cognizance by a proper enquiry. I have the honour to be Your Excellencys most Obdt hble Servt

Eph. Blain D:C:G: of Purchases


Title: To George Washington from a Continental Congress Camp Committee, 10 December 1777
From: Continental Congress Camp Committee
To: Washington, George

Sir
White Marsh [Pa.] Decr 10th 1777

In Consequence of the conferences we have had with your Excellency, and knowing yours and your General Officers opinions on the Subject of our Mission, we have come to the resolution’s contained in the enclosed paper, finding them as far as we can judge most consistent with the Public good.
Among the many reasons offered against a Winters Campaigne we were sorry to observe one of the most prevalent was a general discontent in the army and especially among the Officers. These discontents are ascribed to various causes and we doubt not many of them are well founded and deserve particular attention, and in the course of the present Winter, will be taken into consideration by Congress, and we hope effectually remedied.
That a reform may take place in the army, and proper discipline be introduced, we wish to see the Military placed on such a footing as may make a Commission a desirable object to the Officer, and his Rank preserved from degradation & contempt, for these purposes we intend to recommend to Congress.
That an half pay establishment be formed and adopted in the American Service.
That a pensionary establishment take place in favour of Officers Widows.
That a New regulation of Rank confining it as far as possible to the line of the army be adopted.
That an equitable mode of paying for back rations be ordered.
Should these several regulations be approved and established by Congress (and we have reason to suppose they will) We trust the prevailing discontents will subside and a Spirit of emulation take place among the Gentlemen of the army to promote the public service and introduce that order and discipline amongst the Troops so essential to the Military character.
As a further inducement the Committee have it also in Contemplation to propose in Congress that the Officers be permitted to dispose

of their Commissions under such regulations as may render the measure eligible. We are Your Excellencys Most Obedt hble servants

Robt Morris
Elbridge Gerry
Jos: Jones


Title: From George Washington to Patrick Henry, 10 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Henry, Patrick

Sir
Head Quarters Whitemarsh [Pa.] 10th Decemr 1777

I was honored with yours of the 22d ulto on Wednesday last, but the Situation which the Army has since been in has prevented me from answering it before—Genl Howe had been for some time preparing for a move which every account from the City informed me was intended against this Army. On Thursday Evening he advanced as far

as Chesnut Hill and in the Morning he appeared upon the Heights about three Miles in our front. There was a small skirmish between the Enemy’s advanced Corps and the pennsylvania Militia in which Brig. Genl Irvine of that State was unfortunately wounded, thrown from his Horse and taken prisoner. Having reconnoitered our Situation all that day, and I suppose not liking the appearance of our right wing, they moved on Friday night about three miles to our left. They lay still on Saturday, and on sunday about Noon intelligence was brought that they were in full march towards our Camp. As soon as they began to move Colo. Morgan with the light Corps under his command and the Maryland Militia attacked their right flank, and I am informed did them a good deal of damage considering the Number of Men that engaged. About sunset they halted again, their left wing being about one mile from our line. From this maneuvre I expected an attack in the Night or by day break and made disposition accordingly. On Monday afternoon they began to move but instead of advancing, they filed off from their right, and the first certain account that I could obtain of their intentions was that they were in full march towards Philada. I immediately dispatched light parties after them, but such was the rapidity of their movement that they could not even come up with their rear.
I am pleased to hear of the Arrival of Cloathing in Virginia which tho’ not very great will be very acceptable as far as it will go. I beg that whatever you can spare may be immediately sent forward to the Head Quarters of the Army where ever that may be, and I have no doubt but we can get the Cloaths more readily made up by the Taylors of the Army than you can in the Country. I observe that there is a small supply of Cloth suitable for Officers. I should be extremely glad if that could be sent up for the use of those who remain in the feild and not delivered out to those who under various pretences will find means to winter at home. I hope the Gentlemen, who are appointed in your State to make a collection of Cloathing for your Troops will exert themselves, for altho’ large quantities are ordered from Europe, the arrival is so precarious that we ought by no means to put a dependance upon a supply thro’ that channel.
As I have not seen the Director General of the Hospitals since the Rect of your letter, I cannot say what may be his wants in the medicinal way; but I dare to say a supply of any of the capital Articles will be very acceptable to him. I expect him here in a day or two, when you shall hear further from him or me upon the subject. I have the honor &c.


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 10 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

Sir
Head Qrs White Marsh [Pa.] Decr 10th 1777.

I have the honor to inform you, that in the course of last week from a variety of intelligence I had reason to expect that Genl Howe was preparing to give us a general Action. Accordingly on Thursday night he moved from the City with all his Force, except a very inconsiderable part left in his Lines & Redoubts, and appeared the next morning on Chesnut Hill in front of, & about three miles distant from our Right wing. As soon as their position was discovered, the pensylvania Militia were ordered from our Right to skirmish with their light advanced parties, and I am sorry to mention, that Brigadr Genl Irvine, who led them

on, had the misfortune to be wounded and to be made prisoner. Nothing more occurred on that day. On Friday night the Enemy changed their Ground and moved to our left within a mile of our line, where they remained quiet and advantageously posted the whole of the next day. On Sunday they inclined still further to our left, and from every appearance there was reason to apprehend they were determined on an Action. In this movement, their advanced and flanking parties were warmly attacked by Colo. Morgan & his Corps, and also by the Maryland Militia under Colo. Gist. Their loss I cannot ascertain, but I am informed ⟨i⟩t was considerable, having regard to the number of the Corps who engaged them. About Sunset, after various marches and countermarches they halted, and I still supposed from their disposition and preceding manuvres that they would attack us in the Night, or early the next morning, but in this I was mistaken. On Monday afternoon, they began to move again and instead of advancing filed off from their Right, and the first certain account, that I could obtain of their intentions was, that they were in full march towards philadelphia by Two or Three Routs. I immediately detached light parties after them to fall upon their Rear, but they were not able to come up with ’em. The Enemy’s loss, as I have observed, I cannot ascertain. One account from the City is, that Five hundred wounded had been sent in: Another is that Eighty two Waggons had gone in with Men in this situation. These I fear are both exaggerated and not to be depended upon. We lost Twenty Seven Men in Morgans Corps killed & wounded, besides Major Morris, a Brave & gallant Officer, who is among the latter: Of the Maryland Militia, there were also Sixteen or Seventeen wounded. I have not received further Returns yet. I sincerely wish, that they had made an Attack, the Issue in all probability, from the di⟨sposi⟩tion of our Troops and the strong situ⟨ation⟩ of our Camp, would have been for⟨tunate⟩ and happy. At the same time, I m⟨ust add,⟩ that reason, prudence, and every principle of policy forbad us quitting our post to attack them. Nothing but success would have justified the measure, and this could not be expected from their position.
The constant attention and watching, I was obliged to give the Enemy’s movements, would not allow me to write before, and this I beleive was the less material, as I have reason to think your Committee, who were in Camp most of the time, & who are now here, transmitted an Account of such Occurrences, as they deemed important in any degree. The first cause too, Sir, and my Engagements with the Committee, previous to the coming out of the Enemy, will, I trust, sufficiently apologize for my not acknowledging before, the honor of your favors of the 30th Ulto & 1st Instant, which came to hand in due order

and time. I have the Honor to be with great respect Sir Your Most Obedt sert

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 11 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters—Sweede’s Ford [Pa.] Decr 11th 1777.
Parole Maryland.C. Signs Annapolis. Baltimore.


Title: To George Washington from Colonel Theodorick Bland, 11 December 1777
From: Bland, Theodorick
To: Washington, George

Jonathan Robertsons Smith shop near the Road whichleads down to Bedwin’s ford [11 December 1777]
Sr

I have detached Let Coll Temple with a small Party from Matsons to the Lancaster Road with orders to fall in at the Seventeen milestone and proceed down the road on the front of the Enemy (dataching a party to gain their left) and if they are on the retreat to move down & Join me as low as Marian Meeting, Majr Jamison with another party I detached about two or three mile in the rear of this place from my Right to fall in with the right of the Enemy supposing them to front towards Lancaster & I myself an proceeding down towards Merian & the ferries. I have Just heard a firing which continued pretty smart about two minutes and ceased. it was in the direction of the buck Tavern, the Country people say almost exactly where it began yesterday

with the Militia, I write this to Inform yr Excy that from every information I have yet obtaind & from that firing tis probable the Enemy are yet on that ground, I expect I shall soon learn in What Number from the parties on their flanks & front & Myself being in their rear as I soon expect to be. Unless I can obtain certain & satisfactory intelligence with respect to Numbers, reinforcement and destination, I shall not send Yr Excy any more expresses, but you may look on it that they are incamped as a foraging Party, at or near the Buck, which is their situation from all the Intelligence I have yet been able to get. I am Sr with respect &c. Yr Excys most obedt Sert

Theok Bland

½ past eleven Some intelligence says that they are returned to Phil. others that they are gone up the Lancaster road in No. 9,000 but neither to be depended on as yet.
Capt. Call one of the party sent off towards the firing says that he is informd the Enemy (the main body that was out[)] are gone towards darby & that there is a small party of Hessians only left where the firing was but this intelligence not yet certain in my opinion.


Title: From George Washington to William Livingston, 11 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, William

Sir
Head Quarters Whitemarsh [Pa.] 11th Decr 1777

I had the honor of receiving yours of the 1st inst. some days since, but the Situation which the Army has been in, must apologize for my not answering it sooner.
Genl Howe after making great preparations, and threatning to drive us beyond the Mountains, came out with his whole force last thursday Evening, and after maneuvering round us till the Monday following, decamped very hastily and marched back to Philada.
In my opinion, trying the Officers, taken by Genl Dickinson on Staten Island, for High Treason, may prove a dangerous expedient. It is true they left the State after such an offence was declared treason, but as they had not taken the Oaths nor had entered into our Service, it will be said they had a right to chuse their Side. Again, by the same rule that we try them, may not the Enemy try any natural born subject of Great Britain taken in Arms in our Service. We have a great number of them, and I therefore think we had better submit to the Necessity of treating a few individuals, who may really deserve a severer fate, as prisoners of War, than run the Risque of giving an opening for retaliation upon the Europeans in our Service.
I am pleased to hear that your Assembly are in so good a disposition to regulate the price of necessaries for the Army. I could wish that they would not forget to regulate the prices of country produce, which the Commissaries tell me has risen to so exorbitant a Rate that there is no purchasing a single Article from the Farmer. I have the honor to be Yr Excellency’s most obt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lund Washington, 11 December 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Lund

Letter not found: to Lund Washington, 11 Dec. 1777. Lund Washington writes in his letter to GW of 24 Dec. that “Yours of the 11th Inst. is come to hand.”


Title: To George Washington from Fielding Lewis, 12 December 1777 [letter not found]
From: Lewis, Fielding
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Fielding Lewis, 12 Dec. 1777. A two-page ALS with a three-line docket by GW was offered for sale in two nineteenth-century dealer’s catalogs, both of which printed excerpts from the letter. The first excerpt reads: “as the Enemy have got up their Ships to Philadelphia and it may be necessary to Keep the army near that place to prevent Gen. Howe ravaging the Country” (William Evarts Benjamin, October 1885, item 6, p. 18). The second excerpt reads:

“The enemy have got up their ships near to Philadelphia. ✻✻✻ A French war may give us some relief. Goods are at an extravagant price” (The Collector, May 1888, p. 12).


Title: To George Washington from William Shippen, Jr., 12 December 1777
From: Shippen, William Jr.
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Buckingham Hospital [Bucks County, Pa.]Decr 12. 1777.

In consequence of your Excellencys direction which I received to day from Dr Cochran I have given orders to have the sick removed from Trenton—& will immediately direct the removal of those at Princeton, if you think tis absolutely necessary, altho they are now very comfortably situated & it will be fatal to many of them to move. If it can be allowed, I should wish two or three weeks continuance at princeton, if not, please Sir to signify it by the bearer, who waits on your excellency for an answer. The Buckingham & Plumsted hospitals are moving. What is your desire concerning the Hospitals at Easton & Bethlehem? They are now in very good order and where to fix them so well I know not; but your orders shall be punctually obey’d & my utmost exertions used to make the poor soldiers happy.
If Col. Nicola & his corps of Invalids can be spared they will be very useful at our Hospitals & the Hospitals very useful to them for two thirds are generally in the Hospitals.
I intended to have waited on your Excellency to morrow, but the removal of the sick makes my presence absolutely necessary here. I am Dr Sir Your obedt & very humble Servant

W. Shippen Jr.


Title: From George Washington to William Shippen, Jr., 12 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Shippen, William Jr.

Dr Sir
Head Qrs [Pa.] Dec. 12: 1777.

In answer to your Favor of to day, I cannot think Princeton under the present situation of affairs by any means a proper place for the sick. Should they remain there they would be liable to be taken. At the same time, I do not wish you to precipitate their removal in such a manner as to endanger them. In respect to the Hospitals at Easton & Bethelem, I also am of Opinion, that they should be removed. But these, as their situation is not so dangerous, may be deferred till the last. We must keep the Sick always in the Rear of the Army, or they will be subject to captivity. As to Colo. Nichola & his Corps I shall have no Objection to their being at the Hospitals, if there is no Resolution of Congress assigning them to other duty. Colo. Nichola will know if this is the case. I am Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt sert

G: Washington


Title: General Orders, 13 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, at the Gulph [Pa.] Decr 13th 1777.
Parole Carlisle.C. Signs Potsgrove. White Marsh.

The officers are without delay to examine the arms and accoutrements of their men, and see that they are put in good order.
Provisions are to be drawn, and cooked for to morrow & next day—A gill of Whiskey is to be issued immediately to each officer, Soldier, and waggoner.
The weather being likely to be fair, the tents are not to be pitched: But the axes in the waggons are to be sent for, without delay, that the men may make fires & hut themselves for the ensuing night in the most comfortable manner.
The army is to be ready to march precisely at four o’clock to morrow morning.
An officer from each regiment is to be sent forthwith to the encampment on the other side Schuylkill, to search that and the houses for all stragglers, and bring them up to their corps—All the waggons not yet over are also to be sent for and got over as soon as possible.

Mr Archibald Reed is appointed paymaster to the 8th Pennsylvania regiment, and is to be respected as such.


Title: General Orders, 14 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To:

Head-Quarters, at the Gulph [Pa.] Decr 14th 1777.
Parole Raritan.C. Signs Schuylkill. Delaware.

The regiments of horse are to draw provisions of any issuing Commissary, lying most convenient to them, upon proper returns therefor.
Such of the baggage as is not absolutely necessary for the troops, and all the Commissary’s and others stores, are to remain on this side of the gulph.


Title: To George Washington from the Board of War, 14 December 1777 [letter not found]
From: Board of War
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from the Board of War, 14 Dec. 1777. On 22 Dec. GW wrote the Board of War: “Your favor of the 14th Inst. I received on Saturday Evening.”


Title: From George Washington to General William Howe, 14 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Howe, William

Sir
Head Qrs [Gulph Mills, Pa.] Decr 14th 1777.

The difficulty of supplying the Troops of General Burgoyn’s Army with Wood and provisions from the Country in the Neighbourhood of Boston, induces me to request, that you will grant passports for Vessels to be employed to bring them from places on the Coast. I cannot ascertain the number of Vessels that may be necessary for this business, or the names of the persons who may be entrusted with the command of them; The passports therefore should be blank. In such case they can be occasionally filled up, and to prevent any doubts of their being improperly

used they may be countersigned by Genl Burgoyne. This I shall direct. The Letters from Genl Burgoyne, which accompany this, I transmit you by his request. I am Sir with due respect Yr Most Obedt servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Henry Laurens, 14–15 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Laurens, Henry

Head Qrs near the Gulph [Pa.] Decr 14[–15] 1777.
Sir

On Thursday Evening I had the Honor to receive your Favor of the 8th Instant. From the Several Letters which have lately passed between Genl Howe & myself, I am fully convinced that any propositions by me to release the Baron St Ouary from captivity, either by an Exchange or on parole would be unavailing. In his Letter of the  he has explicitly stated his Sentiments, and has declared himself to be utterly against a partial Exchange. The situation of the Baron, through the interest and acquaintance of the Marquis Fayette with an officer in the Guards, is much more comfortable than that of any of our Officers, who are prisoners, he being on parole in the City, whilst they are all confined in the State House. I do not know that it is the practice in Europe not to consider Volunteers as prisoners. I am inclined to believe, that it is not, and that they are generally held as such, unless the contrary is particularly stipulated by Cartel. However this may be, they have been held in the present contest on both sides on the footing of Other prisoners and exchanged as such. Besides this, I fear that a proposition calculated for the peculiar benefit of the Baron, would be illy received by our unhappy officers, who have been much longer in confinement—whose sufferings are far greater than his, & who claim a right to exchange in due course.
The inquiries directed in the Resolutions contained in your Letter of the 30th Ulto, respecting the loss of the Forts in the Highlands & of Fort Mifflin, I shall order to be made, as soon as circumstances will admit. These, However, it is probable will not be effected in a short time from the situation of our Affairs & inevitable necessity.
On Thursday morning we marched from Our old Encampment and intended to pass the Schuylkill at Maddisons Ford, where a Bridge had been laid across the River. When the first Division and a part of the

Second had passed, they found a body of the Enemy, consisting from the best Accounts we have been able to obtain of Four Thousand Men under the command of Lord Cornwallis possessing themselves of the Heights on both sides of the Road, leading from the River, and the defile called the Gulph, which I presume are well known to some part of your Honble Body. This unexpected event obliged such of Our Troops as had crossed to repass, and prevented our getting over till the succeeding night. This Manuvre on the part of the Enemy was not in consequence of any information they had of our movement—but was designed to secure the pass whilst they were foraging in the Neighbouring Country. They were met in their advance by Genl Potter with part of the Pensylvania Militia, who behaved with bravery and gave them every possible Opposition ’till they were obliged to retreat from their superior numbers. Had we been an Hour sooner, or had had the least information of the measure, I am persuaded we should have given his Lordship a fortunate stroke or obliged him to have returned without effecting his purpose, or drawn out All Genl How’s force to have supported him. Our first intelligence was, that it was nearly all out. He collected a good deal of Forage and returned to the City the Night we passed the River. No discrimination marked his proceedings—All property, whether Friends or Foes, that came in their way was seized & carried off.
Enclosed is a Copy of a Letter from Genl Burgoyne by which you will perceive he requests leave to embark his Troops at Rhode Island or at some place in the Sound, and in case this cannot be granted that he may be allowed to go there with his suite and return from thence to England. His First proposition, as I have observed on a former occasion is certainly inadmissible and for reasons obvious to himself. As to the second which respects the departure of himself & suite, Congress will be pleased to determine upon it and to favor me with their sentiments by the first Opportunity that I may know what Answer to give him. I learn from a Gentleman who has just come from Boston, that this Gentlemen either holds, or professes to hold very different Ideas of our power than what he formerly entertained. That without reserve, he has said, it would be next to impossible for Britain to succeed in her views, and that he should with freedom declare his sentiments accordingly on his arrival in England, and seemed to think the recognition of our Independence an eligible measure under a treaty of Commerce upon a large & extensive Scale. How far these professions are founded in sincerity, it is not easy to determine: But if they are, what a mighty change. While I am on the subject of Mr Burgoyne and his Army, I would submit it to Congress, whether it will not be right & reasonable, that All expences incurred on their Account for provisions &c. should be paid & satisfied previous to their embarkation & departure. I mean

by an Actual deposit of the Money. Unless this is done, there will be little reason to suppose, that it will ever be paid. They have failed, that is the Nation, in other instances as I have been told after liquidating their Accounts and giving the fullest certificates, and we cannot expect that they will keep better faith with us than with Others. The payment too, I should apprehend ought to be in Coin, as it will enable us to administer releif to our Unfortunate Officers and Men who are in Captivity.
Decr 15 Your Favor of the 10th Current with it’s inclosure came to hand Yesterday. Congress seem to have taken for granted a fact that is really not so. All the Forage for the Army has been constantly drawn from Bucks & Philadelphia Counties & those parts most contiguous to the City, insomuch that it was nearly exhausted, and entirely so in the Country below our Camp. From these too, were obtained All the Supplies of Flour that circumstances would admit of. The Millers in most instances were unwilling to grind either from their dissaffection or from motives of fear. This made the Supplies less than they Otherwise might have been, and the quantity which are drawn from thence was little besides what the Guards, placed at the Mills compelled them to manufacture. As to Stock, I do not know that much was had from thence, nor do I know that any considerable Supply could have been had. I confess, I have felt myself greatly embarrassed with respect to a rigorous exercise of Military power. An Ill placed humanity perhaps and a reluctance to give distress may have restrained me too far. But these were not all. I have been well aware of the prevalent jealousy of Military power, and that this has been considered as an Evil much to be apprehended even by the best and most sensible among us. Under this Idea, I have been cautious and wished to avoid, as much as possible, any Act that might improve it. However, Congress may be assured, that no exertions of mine, as far as circumstances will admit, shall be wanting to provide our own Troops with Supplies on the one hand, and to prevent the Enemy from them on the Other. At the same time they must be apprized, that many Obstacles have arisen to render the former more precarious and difficult than they usually were from a change in the Commissary’s department at a very critical & interesting period. I should be happy, If the Civil authority in the several states, thro’ the recommendations of Congress or their own mere will, seeing the necessity of supporting the Army, would always adopt the most spirited measures, suited to the end. The people at large are governed much by custom. To acts of Legislation or Civil authority, they have ever been taught to yeild a willing obedience without reasoning about their propriety. On those of Military power, whether immediate or derived originally from another Source, they have ever looked with a jealous & Suspicious Eye.

I am extremely sorry for your Indisposition and wishing you the earliest releif from your painful disorder, I have the honor to be with great respect Sir Your Most Obedt Servant

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Isaac Sherman, 14 December 1777
From: Sherman, Isaac
To: Washington, George

May please Your Excellency
Decr 14th 1777

As there has been a complaint entered to your Excellency, respecting the behaviour of Colo. C. Webb’s Regt on the 7th instant—My Reputation and the honor of the Regt demand me to request a Court of Inquiry—I therefore solicit your Excellency to appoint a Court, to examin into the behaviour of the Regiment on sd Day—that Officers if they misbehaved may be justly exposed to publick Censure, if not, honourably Acquited.
I charge Genl Reed formerly Adjt Genl to your Excellency of putting Colo. C. Webb’s Regiment into confusion on the 7th inst. of giving orders entirely counter to mine—of hurrying the Men on with such rapidity and altering the disposition of the Regt that rendered it impossible for me to make a proper disposition of my Men, or the Regt to form so soon as one ought to do when fired upon by an Enemy—that notwithstanding I told him it was not in my power, or the Officers to keep the Men in order, if they went as he order’d; but he paid no attention to what I said—that, notwithstanding he took upon him the whole charge of the Regt when it was brought into a disagree situation, and the Enemy began to fire, he left the Regt and Field with precipitation. I have the Honor to be Your Excellencys, most Obedt humbe servt

Isaac Sherman Lieut. Colo.


Title: To George Washington from Maj. John Clark, 15 December 1777 [letter not found]
From: Clark, John Jr.
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Maj. John Clark, Jr., c.15 Dec. 1777. On 16 Dec. GW wrote Clark that “Your Messenger went away before I got home yesterday, or I should have answered your letter.”


Title: From George Washington to Maj. Gen. William Heath, 15 December 1777 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Letter not found: to Maj. Gen. William Heath, 15 Dec. 1777. Heath’s letters to GW of 23, 26, and 27 Nov. are each docketed in part “Ansd 15th Decemr.”


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 15 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

Sir
Head Quarters Gulf Mill [Pa.] 15th Decr 1777

I have the honor of yours of the 2d instant—I am much obliged for the attention you have paid to my requests thro’ General Putnam, and I shall ever acknowledge the readiness with which you have always afforded any assistance from Your State, when demanded immediately by myself.
I was never consulted in the least upon the Rhode Island Expedition, and I cannot therefore pretend to say who were or were not to blame, but it undoubtedly cost the public an enormous Sum to little or no purpose.
I observe by the Copy of your Letter to Congress, that your State had fallen upon means to supply your Troops with Cloathing—I must earnestly

beg that it may be sent on to Camp as fast as it is collected. To cover the Country more effectually we shall be obliged to lay, in a manner, in the Field the whole winter, and except the Men are warmly clad, they must suffer much.
Among the Troops of your State, there are 363 Drafts whose time of service will expire with this month. This deduction with the former Deficiency of the Regiments will reduce them exceedingly low, and as I have represented this matter to Congress very fully, I hope they have, before this time, urged to the States the necessity which there is of filling their Regiments this winter. But lest they should not have done it, I beg leave to urge the matter to your immediate consideration. Recruits for the War ought, by all means, to be obtained, if possible, but if that cannot be done, Draughts for one year at le[a]st should be called out without delay; and I hope that as many as are now upon the point of going home will be immediately reinstated. We must expect to lose a considerable number of men by sickness, and other ways, in the course of the winter, and if we cannot take the Field in the Spring with a superior, or at least, an equal force with the Enemy, we shall have laboured through the proceeding Campaign to little purpose. I have the Honor to be with great Respect and Esteem Sir Your most obedt Servant

Go. Washington


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

Head-Quarters, at the Gulph [Pa.] Decemr 16th 1777
Parole.C. Signs

The tents are to be carried to the encampment of the troops, and pitched immediately.


Title: From George Washington to Major John Clark, Jr., 16 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Clark, John Jr.

Dear Sir
Head Quarters [Gulph Mills, Pa.] 16th Decemr 1777

Your Messenger went away before I got home yesterday, or I should have answered your letter. Altho’ I would not grant permission to all those who want to go into Philada to get paid for what they were plundered of, you may allow it to those on whom you can depend and from whom you expect any intelligence in return. I have directed that all passes granted by you shall be sufficient for the purposes you want them.
We have not at present much more paper than the sheet I write upon and not a whole stick of Wax. When I get a supply you shall have part.
I have given an order upon Colo. Biddle for one hundred dollars, but I am not certain that he has any Money. If he has Mr Fawkes will carry it to you. The Paymaster Genl has not arrived in Camp since our late move. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. The depositions which you mention may be of use if taken.


Title: To George Washington from James Mease, 16 December 1777
From: Mease, James
To: Washington, George

Sir
Summerseat Bucks County [Pa.] Decembr 16 1777

I beg leave to inform you Excellency that I left White marsh the day after the Army moved, in order to get some necessaries which my family stand in need of removed from this place to Lancaster, & have had the misfortune of being confined by sickness ever since I came here occasioned by a severe cold caught either at or on my journey to Camp.

I am sorry to acquaint your Excellency that I find my constitution is so weakened & has suffered so much from several severe fits of illness this last year, that I am become incapable of any great fatigue & therefore unfit for any very active employ for which reason I must entreat that your Excellency will be pleased with all convenient speed to nominate some more suitable person to the office of Clothier General.
As nothing but the infirm & precarious state of my health, & my desire to promote the public good induces me to wish to quit the service of the public at this time I shall continue to do the best that I can in the department untill a new appointment takes place & shall be ready to afford every assistance & information to my successor in my power.
Inclosed are the returns of the Clothing & materials on hand at Lancaster when I left it which I had not an opportunity of laying before your Excellency when at Camp owing to the fluctuating situation of the Army at that time.
None of the Cloth taken from Carson was come to hand except one bale the rest have been sent for & are I expect there by this time this parcel will furnish about one thousand men.
As soon as I can venture to travel wh. hope will be in a day or two I propose returning to Lancaster in order to put forward these affairs & as fast as possible to wind up the business of the department & Am in the Interim with all possible respect Your Excellencis most obdt Hble servt

James Mease Clr Gen.


Title: To George Washington from Major General Israel Putnam, 16 December 1777
From: Putnam, Israel
To: Washington, George

Dear sir
Sawpitts [N.Y.] 16th Decemr 1777

I was last Evening favd with your two Letters of the 28th Ulto and 2nd Inst: with a Remonstrance from Mr Drake inclosd that peice I do aver is made up of Falcity and Misrepresentation, at least what has ever come to my knowledge.
I have ever Acted as near your Excellency’s Orders of last Winter as was in my power—nor has any property been disposd of for the Benefit of the Captors, unless such as was taken in the Actual Possession of the Enemy—General Parsons, and the Sequestrators have had some dispute, Respecting Cattle that was taken from the Enemy while they were at Verplanks Point and up the River, which I suppose has Occationd this Remonstrance—I could give you Mr Drakes Character in full, but Refer you to Major Yates my Aid-de-Camp who is on his way to Baltimore.
The Troops at this place shall be Removed to Fish Kill Agreeable to your Orders as speedily as possible, and nothing in my Power Shall be wanting to secure the River, against any further Attempts of the Enemy, but Works without men will Answer but Little purpose—I am sorry to Inform Your Excellency that I have Reason to fear Cols. Saml B. Webb, & Eli, are prisoners with the Enemy, and some men, the Number as yet Uncertain as the Expedition was on Long Island, and Numbers of the Men have gone to the East End—Major Yates can give your Excellency

the particulars, of this affair—and what Object we had in View. I Beg Leave to Refer you to him for every particular Respecting this department. I am Dr Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

Israel Putnam

P.S. Since I had the Misfortune to Loose Mrs Putnam the Circumstances of my Family are such as makes it Absolutely Necessary that I might have a Little time to go home, to settle my affairs. if you think it not Inconsistant with the Service, I shall be glad of your approbation. Yours &c.

I.P.

Your Letter of the 19th Ulto is Just Come to hand.


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

Head Quarters, at the Gulph [Pa.] Decr 17th 1777.
Parole Warwick.C. Signs Woodbridge. Winchester.

The Commander in Chief with the highest satisfaction expresses his thanks to the officers and soldiers for the fortitude and patience with which they have sustained the fatigues of the Campaign—Altho’ in some instances we unfortunately failed, yet upon the whole Heaven hath smiled on our Arms and crowned them with signal success; and we may upon the best grounds conclude, that by a spirited continuance of the measures necessary for our defence we shall finally obtain the end of our Warfare—Independence—Liberty and Peace—These are blessings worth contending for at every hazard—But we hazard nothing. The power of America alone, duly exerted, would have nothing to dread from the force of Britain—Yet we stand not wholly upon our ground—France yields us every aid we ask, and there are reasons to believe the period is not very distant, when she will take a more active part, by declaring war against the British Crown. Every motive therefore, irresistably urges us—nay commands us, to a firm and manly perseverance in our opposition to our cruel oppressors—to slight difficulties—endure hardships, and contemn every danger—The General ardently wishes, it were now in his power, to conduct the troops into the best winter quarters—But where are these to be found? Should we retire to the interior parts of the State, we should find them crowded with virtuous citizens, who, sacrificing their all, have left Philadelphia and fled thither for protection. To their distresses humanity forbids us to add—This is not all, we should leave a vast extent of fertile country to be despoiled and ravaged by the enemy, from which they would draw vast supplies, and where many of our firm friends would be exposed to all the miseries of the most insulting and wanton depredation—A train of evils might be enumerated, but these will suffice—These considerations make it indispensibly necessary for the army to take such a position, as will enable it most effectually to prevent distress & to give the most extensive security; and in that position we must make ourselves the best shelter in our power—With activity and diligence Huts may be erected that will be warm and dry—In these the troops will be compact, more secure against surprises than if in a divided state and at hand to protect the country. These cogent reasons have determined the General to take post in the neighbourhood of this camp; and influenced by them, he persuades himself, that the officers and soldiers, with one heart, and one mind, will resolve to surmount every difficulty, with a fortitude and patience, becoming their profession, and the sacred

cause in which they are engaged: He himself will share in the hardship, and partake of every inconvenience.
Tomorrow being the day set apart by the Honorable Congress for public Thanksgiving and Praise; and duty calling us devoutely to express our grateful acknowledgements to God for the manifold blessings he has granted us—The General directs that the army remain in it’s present quarters, and that the Chaplains perform divine service with their several Corps and brigades—And earnestly exhorts, all officers and soldiers, whose absence is not indispensibly necessary, to attend with reverence the solemnities of the day.


Title: From George Washington to Lieutenant General John Burgoyne, 17 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Burgoyne, John

Sir
Head Quarters [Gulph Mills, Pa.] 17th Decemr 1777

I was, a few days ago, honored with yours of the 25th Novemr. The packets for Sr William Howe and the letters for Gentlemen in his Army were immediately forwarded to Philada.
As I did not conceive myself at liberty to answer either of your requests without first consulting Congress, I have transmitted a Copy of

your letter to them and have desired their determination as speedily as possible. As soon as I know the result, I shall take the earliest opportunity of acquainting you with it. I have the honor to be Sir Yr most obt and hbb. Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 17 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Dear Sir
Head Qrs Gulph Mill [Pa.] 17th Decr 1777.

I am favoured with Yours of the 23d & 27th of November. If the Recruits intended for Lees and Jackson’s Regiments have not had the small pox, and are not marched when this reaches you, I desire they may be inoculated before they join the Army. After the repeated directions, which I had given to have All the Recruits who had not had that disorder innoculated the moment they were inlisted, I was not less surprized than mortified to find the fine detachment of Men that came forward under Lt Colo. Smith rendered intirely useless for this Campaign by my Orders not being attended to. By the time they reached the Camp the small pox broke out upon them, which obliged me to send the whole into the Hospital, as those who were well were not more than sufficient to nurse the sick.
I immediately forwarded the packets and Letters from Genl Burgoyne and his Officers to Genl Howe. As to Genl Burgoyn’s request to me, to permit him to depart before his Army, I did not think myself authorized to grant it, before I consulted Congress, to whom I transmitted a Copy of his Letter. I shall give him an Answer as soon as I know their determination. I think it would have been highly improper to have allowed him the liberty of visiting your Seaport Towns—A Man of his sagacity and penetration would make many observations upon situations &c. that might prove detrimental to us in future.
You have felt but a small share of the inconveniences arising from the ill regulations in the Commissary’s department. I hope it will get into some better order before long, but in the mean time you acted properly in appointing persons to execute the Office yourself.
Your favor of the 4th Instant came to Hand since beginning this Letter. I am pleased to hear of the arrival of the Ship with Artillery &c. from France, as it is a fresh proof of the friendly disposition of that Court towards us.
General Patterson informs me that there are Two Hundred & forty of the Troops of Massachussets who were drafted for Eight Months, and whose time will expire the last of this Month. He also informs me that care will be taken by the Legislature to replace them, but lest they may be forgetful of it, I beg you will remind them not only of the necessity of reinlisting or supplying the place of the above number, but of filling their Regiments against the next Campaign. Upon this last head, I have written fully to Congress, and I make no doubt they have or will urge the matter to the Council and Assembly of your State.
Whenever you have occasion for directions in any matters respecting General Burgoyne & his Troops, it will be best for you to write fully to

Congress upon the subject, as they alone must determine in all cases which refer to them. I am Dear Sir Your Most Obed. servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 17 December 1777
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Boston December 17th 1777

General Burgoyne recd the information of the Resolve of Congress of the 1st Decemr (restricting the embarkation of his Troops to the port stipulated by the Convention of Saratoga and no other) with no small disopointment. I had before given him my opinion that an alteration would never be allowed; but he flattered himself otherwise. He is now anxiously waiting an answer to his Letter some time since transmitted to your Excellency in hopes that himself and Suit will be permitted to embarke before the Troops. The day before yesterday he desired that I would forward a Letter for him to Genl Pigot to order the Transports round to Boston, yesterday he was hesitating about it, & observed that if it were probable that an answer to his Dispatch would arrive in a day or two he would defer sending to Rhode Island—General Riedesel observed yesterday that it was very doubtful whether the troops would get away this Winter, for if the Transports should attempt to get round it was more than probable that many of them would be blown off the Coast: what their final determination will be I cannot tell; but they all appear much disopointed.
The purchases of Lead and Cloathing have been very successful here, considerable Quantities of both are now on the road, forwarding to you.
Enclosed is a Letter from the Baron de Steuben, who is here with two french Gentlemen. I have the honor to be With great respect Your Excellencys Obed. Servant

W. Heath


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 17 December 1777
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
York [Pa.] 17th Decemr 1777.

I had this Morning the honour of receiving Your Excellency’s dispatch dated 14th & 15th Currt inclosing Copy of a Letter from Lt Genl Burgoyne, which, without reading them through, I sent directly to Congress, from whence I am this moment charged with a Resolve, formed, I presume, as the present necessary direction for a reply to the British General’s application to your Excellency. The business appearing to me to demand all decent respect & dispatch I shall put it immediately in motion. I have the honour to be with sincere Esteem & regard &ca.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Phillips, 17 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Phillips, William

Gulph Mills, Pa., 17 Dec. 1777. GW “presents his Comps. to Major Genl Philips and begs leave to inform him that his letters were forwarded to Philada immediately upon the receipt of them.”


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

Head Quarters, at the Gulph [Pa.] Decr 18th 1777.
Parole.C. Signs.

Persons having any passes from Major John Clarke are to pass all guards.
The Commander in Chief approves, the following sentences of a General Court Martial, the 22nd November last, whereof Major North was president.
Adjutant Ralston of the 1st Pennsylvania Brigade, charged with “Making a false return, and signing it; with ungentlemanly behaviour—disobedience of orders, and leaving his arrest”—By the unanimous opinion of the court, he was found guilty, of making a false return, contrary to the 1st Article of the 5th sec: of the articles of war, and sentenced to be cashiered.
Joseph Conn Quarter Master of the 1st Pennsylv. Regt charged with “Disobedience of orders—neglect of duty and fraudulent conduct[”] was acquitted of the charge of fraudelent conduct but found guilty of disobedience of orders and “neglect of duty,” and sentenced to be dismissed from the service.
The Commander in Chief approves the following sentences of a General Court Martial held the 30th of Novr last of which Col. Grayson was president.
Capt. Havelman charged with “Wounding Moses Plaine a soldier in the 11th Virginia regiment” confessed the fact, but justified it by the insolence of the soldier—The Court having considered the evidence are of opinion the justification is not sufficient, and do sentence him

to be reprimanded on the Grand parade by the Major General of the day—This is to be done the next time the guards are paraded.
The Major Generals and officers commanding divisions, are to appoint an active field officer in and for each of their respective brigades, to superintend the business of hutting, agreeably to the directions they shall receive; and in addition to these, the commanding officer of each regiment is to appoint an officer to oversee the building of huts for his own regiment; which officer is to take his orders from the field officer of the brigade he belongs to, who is to mark out the precise spot, that every hut, for officers and soldiers, is to be placed on, that uniformity and order may be observed.
An exact return of all the tools, now in the hands of every regiment, is to be made immediately, to the Qr Mr General, who, with the Adjutant General, is to see that they, together with those in store, are duly and justly allotted to the regimental overseers of the work; who are to keep an account of the men’s names, into whose hands they are placed, that they may be accountable for them—The Superintendents and Overseers are to be exempt from all other duty, and will moreover be allowed for their trouble.
The Colonels, or commanding officers of regiments, with their Captains, are immediately to cause their men to be divided into squads of twelve, and see that each squad have their proportion of tools, and set about a hut for themselves: And as an encouragement to industry and art, the General promises to reward the party in each regiment, which finishes their hut in the quickest, and most workmanlike manner, with twelve dollars—And as there is reason to believe, that boards, for covering, may be found scarce and difficult to be got—He offers One hundred dollars to any officer or soldier, who in the opinion of three Gentlemen, he shall appoint as judges, shall substitute some other covering, that may be cheaper and quicker made, and will in every respect answer the end.
The Soldier’s huts are to be of the following dimensions—viz.—fourteen by sixteen each—sides, ends and roofs made with logs, and the roof made tight with split slabs—or in some other way—the sides made tight with clay—fire-place made of wood and secured with clay on the inside eighteen inches thick, this fire-place to be in the rear of the hut—the door to be in the end next the street—the doors to be made of split oak-slabs, unless boards can be procured—Side-walls to be six and a half-feet high—The officers huts to form a line in the rear of the troops, one hut to be allowed to each General Officer—one to the Staff of each brigade—one to the field officers of each regiment—one to the staff of each regiment—one to the commissioned officers

of two companies—and one to every twelve non-commissioned officers and soldiers.
After Orders. The army and baggage are to march to morrow in the time and manner already directed in the orders of the 15th instant, Genl Sullivan’s division excepted, which is to remain on its present ground ’till further orders.


Title: To George Washington from Major John Clark, Jr., 18 December 1777
From: Clark, John Jr.
To: Washington, George

sir
Mr Lewis’s [Newtown Square, Pa.] 18th Decr 1777

I wrote you sometime since, concerning some Provision I had sent by a Spy, taken by Warners Militia, & deposited in the hands of Col. Rankin—Your Excellency was kind enough to request me to give General Potter, a state of the matter, & let him know, “’twas your desire, that it shou’d be delivered to the guard,” all this has been done by me, Mr Trumbal waited on him Yesterday, but to no purpose, with a letter for me according to your desire why your Orders have not been complied with I know not? Mr Trumbal sent the provision at my request, & by my Orders, before the Enemy moved up to attack you at White marsh—I expected the design, & anxious to get information, the route they intended, & their numbers &ca prevailed on this Gent., to permit an acquaintance to go in with his Chair—Money would not tempt him, he said he had upwards of 20 in Family in the Country, & several in Town the latter no provision except Flower & Potatoes Vide an extract of a Letter sent you about that time—& if I wou’d consent to his sending a little Beef & Butter[—]The Provision maybe thought by some to be a great deal, but, the information I should have recd would have been fully adequate—he wou’d engage to get me the necessary information to which I readily consented, & a part was to been given to Mrs Williams, mother, of Major Williams, a prisoner with the Enemy in Philada—& thus because every ignoramus in the Militia, is not made

acquainted with the secret designs of the Army—he will raise a clamour against an innocent Man—but this is not all—a private difference has subsisted between Col. Warner, & Mr Trumbal, & the former, has been imprudent enough to discover it—I wrote him & informed him ’twas me, that was to blame (if any one) but finding himself disappointed in getting Trumbal under a Guard which he sent, & countermanded by me—He never answer’d my Letter, but said he shou’d have me tried by a Court martial—& I have taken no further notice of him—had he been a Gent., he wou’d have excused Trumbal on the reception of my Letter & blamed me but this he did not chuse in a Gent. like manner—& returned the provision—but the true state of the case is, the Militia have discoverd an itch to monopolise the Articles to their own use, & Mr Trumbal says he is well informed they have sold the Butter at a Dollar a pound—their times are nearly or perhaps quite expired & their Officers think to screen themselves from not making restitution of the Provision to the owner, they cannot plead Ignorance, I repeatedly wrote to Col: Rankin & informed him ’twas sent by me, & made a demand of it—they now accuse Trumbal with having bought a large quantity of Cheese & other provision in the Country, & that he has repeatedly sent into Philada, the former he acknowledges, & ’tis for the use of his Family here, the latter he denies, & I believe very justly—he is willing to undergo any trial—however he might have been guilty heretofore, ’tis no reason the provision sent by my Orders shou’d be detaind—my feelings on this occasion are not a little wounded—after having given him my word & honor there was no danger to be apprehended from our Army—’tis making me appear in a contemptuous light—my word will not be taken hereafter—& let me assure you, I have received from this Gent. every intelligence I cou’d wish, consider his situation ready to be devoured by the violent Whigs—there is no making known his reasons, or he is ruined by one party Whigs, or the other one Tories, he is sensibly injured—I beg leave to recommend him to your Excellency as worthy your compassion—& that the Articles may be restored him—I am sorry those troublesome Gentry, have occasioned me to write you so often on this head—One thing I must not omit telling you, the person who carried the provision, was a delicate sensible Woman—She took a few Chesnuts to give the Children, among those a pint measure to get mended—the Guard who took her, insisted ’twas to retail them to the Enemy—one of them (whom she knows) rode in the Chair—to escort her to the Colonel—going along, treated her with rude language, & offered on the road if she wou’d permit him to use certain freedoms with her, (which her modesty & virtue wou’d not admit) he wou’d let her pass to the Enemy, with the Provision

—her delicacy wou’d not permit her to tell me—but she informed her husband & ’tis from him I have it & she will swear it she says—If this is conduct becomeg Freemen, then farewell Virtue—Religion, & Liberty—At Mr Trumbals request, (last Night) I have given you a true state of facts—equity & good conscience require I shou’d pay him for the Provision, if ’tis not delivered up. I am Your Excellency’s Obedt & Faithful

Jno. Clark Jun.


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Galloway, 18 December 1777
From: Galloway, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Sir
Philadelphia Decr 18. 1777

Apprehending that the Business of War by no Means excludes the Feelings of Humanity, and relying on that Candor and Liberality of Sentiment which those who are best acquainted with your Excellency agree you possess, I have presumed to request the Favor of your permitting Mrs Galloway with her Household Furniture and Effects to remove from my Seat in the Country to Philadelphia. Coud I imagine that a Contest of such Magnitude and Importance as the present between Great Britain and America is to be decided by, or in any Degree depended on a Matter of so trivial comparative Consequence as that of obliging me in the Gratification of my Desire I shoud immediately perceive the Impropriety, and not give you the Trouble of this Request.
This will be conveyd by a Flag obtaind under the Favor of his Excellency Sir William Howe. I am your Excellencys most Obedient Servant

J. Galloway


Title: To George Washington from Colonel John Gunby, 18 December 1777
From: Gunby, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
[c.18 December 1777]

I beg leave to Troble your Excellency with those few lines by way of Informing in what Manner I claim Rank of Colo. Stone on Ower first astablishment & Raising Troops in the State of Maryland, I was appointed Second Capt. of an Independant Company, Colo. Stone was appointed first Capt. in Colol Smallwoods Regiment that then was, & by a resolve of that State at the time we took owr Commissions the Independant Captains All took Rank of the Capts. in Colo. Smallwoods Regiment, larst Campeign when the flying Camp troops war Sent out, Capt. Bell who Commanded the first Independant Company war appointed Brigatar to the flying Camp, by which means I became the Eldest Capt. belonging to the State, & Commanded Colo. Stone all the last Campaign on the 10th of Decmr 1776. Colo. Stone & my Self Receved Lt Colos. Commissions both of the Saim Day and Date, last april the Legislature of owr State in the ungust & Confused manner in many Instances they Gave Commissions in, Contrived to gave Colo. Stone the Rank of Sixth Colo. & my Self the Rank of the Seventh, upon which I refused taking a commision on any Such terms at length they Told me if I would take the Commission agreable to the present appointment that they would Refer the Settlement of the Rank to your Excellency when we Should arive at Camp on those terms I took charge of the Regiment & Came out when the army lay Down at willmington I particioned your Excellency through Genl Sullivan to have an Inquierry in the Matter your answer was that time Just then wold not purmit but that you would have the matter Inquired in to the first oppertunity & that you had been Informed that Colo. Stone was a Lt Colo. when I was only a Capt. who Eiver informed your Excellency of that new nothing at all of the matter I wrote Colo. Stone Since your Order for the Colos. to gave in their pretentions to Rank informing him of the order, & if he thought him Self Intitiled to hold Rank of me to Send in his Clam in writing but as Colo. Stone is not her nor cant be here I should be Very well Satisfied that Genrl Smallwood Should Stat Every Clam to Rank that Ither of us can have as he is better aqunted with the Rank the officers ought to hold from that State then any one Else That I know of if this proposiel be admited I very Chearfully will acquace with your Excellencys Determination or any Bord you Shall appoint for that purpose. From your Very Humble Survt

Jno. Gunby


Title: To George Washington from Major General John Armstrong, 19 December 1777
From: Armstrong, John
To: Washington, George

Dear General
Camp near Spring Tavern [Pa.] 19th Der 1777

This day or tomorrow I design moving Over to the Bethlehem or rather the Eastown Road & near the Shamany & Shou’d have moved Sooner, had the weather & Other impediments permitted—the removal of Sick Soldiers & fragments of Continental Stores, with the Scarcity of Waggons to procure Our provisions have Stood in the way.
Coll Pickering writes me that two or three hundred Arms, Tents &c. were left & yet remains at Mr Morris’s (where Head Quarters Once was) by the Pennsylvania Militia—That those Arms may have been Occupied by the Militia of Maryland or Virginia or both, as both recd Arms the property of this State, is very probable, but by Pennsylvanians they were not left there, or if they had shou’d not have remaind I shall early attend to & remove them—I’m told there are Several good Waggons lies on your last encamping ground near Mr Emlens, and also at or near Mr Morrises, and no doubt at Various other places, things of importance have been left in the Quarter master Generals department, without any after notice—these in the two places mention’d will be carried off by the neighbours if not Sent for, and it’s not in my power to attend to them without neglecting things of greater importance, except yielding a Guard from the Battn which will be at or not far from the Bridge on the Egypt Road.
There are also ten or fifteen Waggon Loads of Entrenching Tools,

Horse Shoe’s &c. for Major Ricees, near Major Henrys, about which Rice is uneasy, they will be easily moved over by Paulings to the rear of the Army.
The people are now begining to Crowd upon me from the Delaware Side, particularly from the Whiggs of Neshamany & near the Cross Roads—I must immediately attend to these parts—And Shall at the next Quarters, attempt the best General arrangement or dispossition for the Winter in my power, being So far happy as to be able firmly to believe, that a possession of every Capitol Road (of which I find there are Nine) & perhaps Some by-roads too, is the only elligible measure in Our Circumstances—The next Idea will be their common duty & Station of their respective Pickquets. Beside these there must be Some kind of Centeral Camp or Head Quarters, from which Occasional Orders & Supplys must issue & to which reports will be made: but how to ⟨fe⟩ed or Supply these various detachments with any regularity & certainty I cannot yet ⟨we⟩ll devise—I design before the troops are dispersed as above, to make a report or two to bring off Some Cattle convenient to the Enemy if any Such are to be found.
I have Sent off a Battn to the Newtown Road—Shall leave another here who must maintain the Picquet at the White Marsh Church Patrole &c. The Picquet at Barren Hill Church must be held from the Regimt at the Bridge. When leisure admits I shall be greatly Obliged by yr Excellencies thoughts & Correction of the Outlines above—The Hyde-Master has not called on me—I shall Send an Officer to Germantown, to beat the Bush about the number of the Tan fats, State of the leather &c. & write You again—Inclosed the Examination of Young Bush on his acct to be kept Secret. I am Most respectfully Your Excellencys Most Obedt Servt

John Armstrong


Title: To George Washington from Major John Clark, Jr., 19 December 1777
From: Clark, John Jr.
To: Washington, George

Mr Lewis’s Newtown Square [Pa.]19th Decr 1777 4 oClock, A.M.
sir

since the reception of your favor I dispatched several Spies into the City, to endeavor to find the intended hour of the Enemy’s march; one of them this moment returned from Philada, which place he left at three oClock this afternoon, at that time, they were leading about three hundred Horses covered with Blankets on the Commons, & were very busy throwing up a ditch from the Road above Middle ferry extending towards the Stables on the right, as we enter the City, a great number of Men were employed at this work, whether they are serious, or only mean to amuse I cannot say—there is no talk at present of their moving—their light Horse were reconnoitring this morning on Marshalls Road, & very inquisitive—I directed my Spy to inform them a large Body of Troops were marching towards Darby, there to take post for the Winter, which startled them, he says, exceedingly nothing of any consequence passing in the City—the Inhabitants immagine the Enemy mean to remain quiet in winter quarters, they say, they intend to extend their ditch to join the line at the upper Ferry—at present they are cutting & halling Wood from this side Schuylkill, to the other without any annoyance, my Spy says he thinks they might be easily caught—he brought me the last papers which I beg leave to present you with—and hope they will be acceptable—I expect further information every moment, which will be perfectly satisfactory with respect to the Enemy’s further intentions.
I must again tell your Excellency, that the Country People carry in provision constantly, a number went to Day—one of them cau’t my Spy by the Coat, & call’d him a “damn’d Rebel” before the Enemy’s advanced Sentry’s, but clapping Spurs to his Mare, left him lying in the Road, since which, the Villain was returning, & one of our Horsemen took him, & he appealed to my Spy if he did not know him to be well affected, his name is Edward Hughes is a Papist, & lives in Springfield—I hope an example will be made to deter others—If a Troop of Horse was stationed in this quarter, & patrole the Roads, ’twou’d be of infinite service—Your Excellency some weeks ago desired me to call on Genl Potters Quarter Mr for a Horse—this I did, but he was Ordered to join you with the Brigade & informed me his Horses were too poor & he cou’d not furnish me with one—the consequence was, I’ve used my own & nearly ruined three—when I first came down in October, I purchased a poney to send Expresses—it is wore down, & I’m obliged to return it into the Q.M.Gs. Yard, & make use of my Boys Horse, for this, & other purposes—I’m obliged to ride from 20 to 60 Miles a Day to meet my Friends to prevent suspicion (the People being

Quakers) If you’ll please to permit me to purchase a Horse, I can do it readily (& when I have done with him return him to the States) & give an Order on the Q.M.G.—this I think but equitable, as I’ve ruined my own to serve the States, at your request—otherwise I must do it out of my pocket, & my pay wont afford it—I pray your answer I am with the greatest attachment your Excellency’s Most Obed. Hble servt

Jno. Clark Jun.

P.S. If the Q.M. have any Horses they are nearly worn out & won’t do for my business.


Title: From George Washington to Patrick Henry, 19 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Henry, Patrick

Sir
Camp 14 Miles from Philadelpa Decr 19: 1777.

On Saturday Evening I was honored with your favor of the 6th Instant, and am much obliged by your exertions for Cloathing the Virginia Troops. The Articles you send shall be applied to their use agreable to your wishes. It will be difficult for me to determine when the Troops are supplied, owing to their fluctuating and deficient state. However I beleive there will be little reason to suspect that the quantities that may be procured, will much exceed the necessary demands—It will be a happy circumstance, and of great saving, if we should be able in future to cloath our Army comfortably. Their sufferings hitherto have been great, and from our deficiencies in this instance, we have lost many Men & have generally been deprived of a large proportion of our Force. I could wish you to transmit the price of All the necessaries you may send from time to time. This will be essential, and the omission upon former occasions of the like nature in the course of the War has been the cause of much uneasiness and intricacy in adjusting Accounts.
I am persuaded that many desertions have proceeded from the cause you mention. The Officers were highly culpable in making such assurances. The Expedient you propose might and I beleive would bring in Several, but I cannot consider myself authorised to adopt it.

The Letters for the Marquiss were sent to his Quarters as soon as they were received. I shall present you to him according to your wishes. He is certainly amiable & highly worthy of esteem.
I have Nothing material to inform you of, Except that we are told by the Boston paper that a Ship has arrived from France at One of the Eastern ports with Fifty peices of Brass Artillery—5000 Stand of Arms and other Stores—There are Letters also which mention her arrival, but not the particular amount of Stores. I have the Honor to be with great respect & regard Sir Yr Most Obedt servt

G: Washington

P.S. I sent the Express on to Congress, which occasioned me to write by this Conveyance. I wrote you on the 13 Ulto, Two Letters—One a private one. I am fearful & uneasy lest they should have miscarried as you have not mentioned the Receipt of them.


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General William Smallwood, 19 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Smallwood, William

Dr Sir,
Gulph Mill [Pa.] Decr 19th 1777.

With the Division lately commanded by Genl Sullivan, you are to March immediately for Wilmington, and take Post there. you are not to delay a moment in putting the place in the best posture of defence, to do which, and for the security of it afterwards, I have written in urgent terms to the President of the Delaware State to give every aid he possibly can of Militia—I have also directed an Engineer to attend you for the purpose of constructing, and superintending the Works, and you will fix with the Quarter Master on the number of Tools necessary for the business—but do not let any neglect, or deficiency on his part, impede your operations, as you are hereby vested with full power to sieze & take (passing receipts) such articles as are wanted. The Commissary & Forage Master will receive directions respecting your Supplies, in their way; but I earnestly request that you will see that these Supplies are drawn from the Country between you and Philadelphia, as it will be depriving the Enemy of all chance of getting them; and in this point of view, becomes an object to us of importance.
I earnestly exhort you to keep both Officers and Men to their duty, and to avoid furloughs but in cases of absolute necessity. you will also use your utmost endeavours to collect all the straglers &ca from both Brigades. and you are also to use your best endeavours to get the Men Cloathed in the most comfortable manner you can.
You will be particular in your observation of every thing passing on the River & will communicate every matter of Importance to Dear Sir Yr Most Obedt Sert.


Title: To George Washington from Major John Clark, Jr., 20 December 1777
From: Clark, John Jr.
To: Washington, George

sir
Saturday Night, 20th Decr 1777—8 oClock P.M.

I wrote you last Night, & informed you that I expected a Spy from the City every hour—he has this moment come to me, & brings intelligence that near 1000 of the Enemy, crossed over to Jersey yesterday

with six feild pieces from 4 to 6 pounders, with design to let the Country people have the benefit of the Market, the Militia hitherto having prevented—this Day, about 30 Waggons escorted by 100 Hessians, went a forageing towards Derby & returned loaded with Hay & Rye straw without interruption, I was reconnoitring & got notice of it, but ’twas too late to inform you, had there been any Troops in this quarter I cou’d have caught them easily—they are busy intrenching at the other side Schuylkill as mentioned in my last—& they intend to make another forageing excursion haul all the Wood they’ve cut, over the River, & then pull up or destroy the Bridge & remain quiet in winter quarters for the remainder of the Season—this you may Rely on, My Boy has just return’d & I’m distress’d to get this deliver’d you as my Horse is tir’d—If Morgans Corps was stationed here or near this, I’d venture to keep them usefully employed—but without some Troops sufficient to check the Enemy ’tis in vain for me to get information for e’er it reaches you, the opportunity’s are lost—I send you a paper of this Date with a little news & am much fatigued—I am your affectionate and obedt

Jno: Clark Junr

P.S. Mr Lewis has lent me a Horse—(if Baron Arndt wou’d return his Mare he wou’d be much obliged & begs me to remind your Excellency) to carry this to you.


Title: From a Committee to Inspect Beef, 20 December 1777
From: Committee to Inspect Beef
To:

In Camp [Valley Forge] Decr 20th 1777

We the subscribers being appointed a Committee to Inspect the Beaf drawn for Genl Learnard’s Brigade, under the Command of Colo. Bailey Commandant, we have examianed the Beaf and Judge it not fit for the use of human beings, unwholesome & destructive to nature for any person to make use of Such fude.

Joseph Pettingill Captn
John Wiley Capt.
Seth Drew Capt.


Title: From George Washington to Joseph Galloway, 20 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Galloway, Joseph

Sir
Head Quarters [Valley Forge] 20th Decemr 1777

I have your favr of the 18th by Mr Potts. Commissioners being appointed by the legislative Authority of this State to take cognizance of and to dispose of the personal property of those who have willingly gone over to the Enemy, it is not in my power to grant a licence for the removal of any of your effects. I have not the least objections to Mrs Galloways going to Philada and I shall be ready to furnish passports for that purpose whenever they are applied for. I am Sir Yr most obt Servt.


Title: From George Washington to Major General William Heath, 20 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

Dr Sir
Head Qrs Valley Forge, Decr 20th 1777

I yesterday Evening received your Favor of the 7th Inst., and am happy to find the first account of the arrival of the Ship with Artillery &c. fully confirmed. This Event is fortunate & interesting, as it not only manifests the strong attachment of France to our Cause, but also makes us respectable in point of Artillery. I doubt not of your attention to secure the Stores, and wish your care of them. The Board of War, it is probable, will give particular directions about them.
The state of the Commissary’s department has given me more concern of late, than any thing else. Unless matters in that line are speedily taken up & put in a better train, the most alarming consequences are to be apprehended. Congress are already informed upon the subject, Yet I shall transmit ’em that part of your Letter, which relates to it. Your conduct in delivering the Salt to Mr Colt, so far from being censurable, gives you a claim in my Opinion to the public thanks. Surely Nothing can be more essential than laying up Supplies of provision for the Army, and if the present moment is not seized for the purpose, I do not see how it will be possible to subsist it. The Work has been already too long neglected—Should it be still deferred, the prospect before us will be painful & disagreable. As far as your situation and circumstances will admit, I beg you to give Mr Colt every spur in your power to prosecute the business. My last advices from Congress on this subject were, that they had written to the State of Connecticut respecting it.
The Board of War have received some report, that a Genl Hamilton of Genl Burgoyn’s Army is desirous of being exchanged and serving in America. This they have not had from any proper authority; However, I request that you will inquire into the matter, and if it is so, the measure will be readily come into on our part, and may be carried into effect for the release of Brigadr Genl Thompson. At the same time, I would observe, if this is Genl Hamilton’s wish, it will be necessary for General Burgoyne to inform me of it, that application may be made to Genl Howe upon the subject. Indeed it might not be improper for Genl Burgoyne to inclose me a line from himself to General Howe. I would have you introduce the matter as a report you had heard, but not as coming from me, nor in nature of an application. If this Exchange should take place, perhaps it may be the means of bringing on Others & of releiving many of our Officers from their present unhappy condition.
This Letter goes by Express to Genl Burgoyne. Congress will not consider or give any Answer to any propositions or requests he may make

for altering or dispensing with any Terms in the Convention of Saratoga, Unless he makes them directly to themselves. I am Dr Sir with esteem & regard Yr Most Obedt servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Henry Laurens, 20 December 1777
From: Laurens, Henry
To: Washington, George

Sir
York [Pa.] 20th Decemr 1777.

The 17th Inst. I troubled Your Excellency by the hand of Messenger Jones.
Under this Cover Your Excellency will receive two Acts of Congress of Yesterday’s date respectively—one for regulating & restricting the terms of payment for past unliquidated & future supplies of provisions & other necessaries for British Prisoners.
The other requesting Your Excellency to inform Congress the intended disposition of the Army, if it be determined to withdraw from encampment, & strongly recommending the State of New Jersey as an object demanding attention & protection—together with a Remonstrance to Congress from the Council & General Assembly of Pennsylvania, upon which is founded the first Clause of the last mentioned Act. to the above I shall add a Resolve of the 8th alluded to in my Letter of that date which has been ever Since lying on my Table from

an opinion which I had entertained that a subsequent Resolve would have been coupled to it, but no Such, nor any relative to the Subject, has been Sent to me. I have the honour to be with great respect & Esteem

P.S. Just as I was about closing this packet I received one from General Parsons containing a very Interesting correspondence with Sir Willm Tryon; Congress being convened I could not with propriety detain the papers even for an attentive perusal—from a Cursory reading, I remember Sir William after justifying certain wanton acts of conflagration & of Cruelty & base Insult upon some of the friends of the American cause which had been complained of by our General, says he has “offered twenty Silver Dollars per Man” as a præmium for taking up & delivering Committee Men—an Alarm, which indicates drawing the Scene & disclosing the last Act in the horrors of Civil War.
Sir William’s in[c]lination is however disclosed, & his petulence has furnished a Key to certain ambiguous terms contained in a late Letter to your Excellency from Sir William Howe.


Title: Orders to Colonel Henry Emanuel Lutterloh, 20 December 1777
From: Washington, George
To: Lutterloh, Henry Emanuel

[Valley Forge] 20th Decemr 1777.

Whereas the Enemy in their late excursions have carried off most of the Horses belonging to such of the inhabitants of the Counties of Philada and Chester as have been within their reach, whereby they have been enabled to increase their number of their light Dragoons. Therefore in order to prevent their making the like advantages in future and at the same time to enable us to remount our Dragoons upon such Horses as would otherwise in all probability fall into the hands of the Enemy You are hereby authorized by your self or any of your deputies or such other persons as are properly appointed by you to remove all Horses of proper age and size for draft or saddle that may be found between our advanced posts and those of the Enemy. Excepting only such a number as may be absolutely necessary for the purpose of drawing Fuel for the Family during the Winter.

For The Horses so taken Receipts are to be given specifying their Ages, size, Colour and Marks and are to be brought to the Head Quarters of the Army where the Owners are to attend and a proper value is to be affixed to each by persons indifferently chosen by yourself and them.
You are to employ no persons in the execution of this Business, but those in whom you can place confidence and who will conduct themselves in such a manner as will not tend to give offence to the good people of the Country, but rather convince them of the equity and propriety of the measure which is calculated to secure and pay for that property which they have lately found our Enemies deprive them of without any kind of compensation.


Title: To George Washington from John Potts, 20 December 1777
From: Potts, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
[20 December 1777]

As the decision of the present most direful and unhappy contest cannot in any degree be affected by or depend upon the distress which individuals must suffer by a seperation from their nearest and most indearing connections And as the benevolent & humane Character of your Excellency is universally acknowledged I am encouraged (altho personally a Stranger) to address you for permission to remove my family & Household furniture from my house in the Country into Philadelphia or if that shd be apprehended to be too great an indulgence that I might be permitted to use two or three Waggons unmolested When I departed from my house & by that means deprived my Wife & Children of that protection which a Husband & Parent can afford (& which I am assured is absolutely necessary to preserve them from savage Cruelty) I had great reason to beleive that myself as many other quiet Citizens were should be torn from every thing I held dear & drove into Banishmt for an indefinite Term Permit me to apply to the feelings of your Excellency’s own heart for an answer to my request. I am with the greates Respect Your Excellency’s most Obedient Humble Servant

Jno. Potts