Title: From George Washington to the Massachusetts Council, 4 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Massachusetts Council

Gentlemen
Camp at Cambridge Septemr 4th 1775

Col. Sergeant has applied to me for his Commission in the Continental Army, & I have no Objection to comply with his Request but his not having received one under the Legislature of this Province. But as I do not mean to confine myself to Forms, if he has been considered by this Governmt as an Officer authorized to raise a Regiment, & would have received a Commission on the Provincial Establishment, and you will signify this to me for my Government & Security: I shall make no Difficulty to grant a Commission to him on the same Terms as are prescribed to other Officers. I am Gentlemen most respectfully Your Obedt & very Hbble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Brigadier General John Sullivan, 4 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Sullivan, John

Dr Sir,
Camp at Cambridge Septr 4. 1775

I receivd your Letter of yesterday respecting Lieutt Sanborn, as also his application for a discharge—As it is not my wish to

strain the Law to its full extent, but to exercise it in such a manner as to prevent irregularities, & for the support of due subordination, without which no army can long exist; & as Lieutt Sanborn stands fair in the opinion & esteem of both Officers and Soldiers, and seems by his application, to be thoroughly convinced of his error I shall have no objection to overlooking this (you say) first fault, provided Colo. Poor who confined him does not (as I think he has a right to do) insist upon his tryal—I must insist however before you do dismiss him, that you will give him a reprimand, and moreover, that you return my thanks to Colo. Poor for his vigilance & attention to the Service, shewed in this Instance; if all Officers would use their endeavours to enforce Orders, duty would go smoothly on, & we should soon be a very respectable Army. I am with great esteem Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lund Washington, 4 September 1775 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Lund

Letter not found: to Lund Washington, 4 Sept. 1775. On 15 Oct. 1775 Lund Washington wrote to GW: “In your Letter of the 7th you mention haveg wrote one on the 4th.”


Title: Address to the Inhabitants of Bermuda, 6 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Inhabitants of Bermuda

Gentlemen
[Cambridge, 6 September 1775]

In the great Conflict which agitates this Continent I cannot doubt but the Assertors of Freedom & the Rights of the Constitution are possessed of your most favourable Regards & Wishes for Success. As the Descendants of Freemen & Heirs with us of the same glorious Inheritance we flatter ourselves that tho. divided by our Situation we are firmly united in Sentiment. The Cause of Virtue & Liberty is confined to no Continent or Climate it comprehends within its capacious Limits the wise & the good however dispersed & separated in Space or Distance. You need not be informed that the Violence & Rapacity of a tyrannick Ministry have forced the Citizens of America your Brother Colonists into Arms. We equally detest & lament the Prevalence of those Councils which have led to the Effusion of so much human Blood & left us no Alternative but a Civil War or a base Submission. The wise Disposer of all Events has hitherto smiled upon our virtuous Efforts, those mercenary Troops a few of whom lately boasted of subjugating this vast Continent, have been checked in their earliest Ravages, & are now actually encircled in a small Space their Arms disgraced & suffering all the Calamities of a Siege. The Virtue & Spirit & Union of the Provinces leave them nothing to fear but the Want of Ammunition:

The Applications of our Enemies to foreign States & their Vigilance upon our Coasts are the only Efforts they have made against us with Success. Under these Circumstances & with these Sentiments we have turned our Eyes to you Gentlemen for Relief. We are informed that there is a large Magazine in your Island under a very feeble Guard. We would not wish to involve you in an Opposition in which from your Situation we should be unable to support you, we know not therefore to what Extent to sollicit your Assistance in availing ourselves of this Supply: but if your Favour & Friendship to North America & its Liberties have not been misrepresented I perswade myself you may consistent with your own Safety promote & favour this Scheme so as to give it the fairest Prospect of Success. Be assured that in this Case the whole Power & Exertion of my Influence will be made with the Honourable Continental Congress that your Island may not only be supplied with Provisions but experience every other Mark of Affection & Friendship which the grateful Citizens of a free Country can bestow on its Brethren & Benefactors.


Title: From George Washington to Nicholas Cooke, 6 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Cooke, Nicholas

Sir
Camp at Cambridge Septemr 6th 1775

Your Favours of the 30th August & 2d Instt are duly received. The Concurrence of the Committee in the Bermudas Voyage is very agreeable & I hope will prove a happy Earnest of its Success. Inclosed is a Letter to the Inhabitants of that Island of the Tenor you have suggested: but I shall depend upon

Captn Whipples not making Use of it except in Case of real Necessity.
I am to acknowledge your kind Assistance to Captn Baylor in his late Errand, & must desire you to make known to Messr Clarke & Nightingale that I am very sensible of the patriotick & disinterested Part they have acted on this Occasion.
As the Congress will depend on a Supply of Tow Cloth from your Colony unless they are apprized to the Contrary: I apprehend it will be proper through your Delegates to acquaint them of the State in which you have found this Article, in order to guard against a Disappointment.
The Removal of the Stock from the Coast and Islands will I hope have its Effect in sending the ministerial Plunderers empty home: We have yet no Accounts of the last Fleet, except 6 who returned from Louisburgh with Coal a few Days ago.
I need not mention to you the vast Importance of gaining Intelligence of the Enemy’s Motions & Designs as early as possible: a great Saving to the Continent both of Blood & Money; a Detection of our secret & most dangerous Enemies, with innumerable other Advantages would result from the Interception of their Correspondence with England at this Juncture. I have therefore thought proper to propose to you the seizing the Mail by the next Packet: She is hourly expected from England—her Force of Men & Guns inconsiderable; none but Swivels & only mann’d with 18 Men. If the Vessel proposed to go to Bermudas should cruize for a few Days off Sandy Hook I have no Doubt she would fall in with her. In which Case she might with little or no Delay land the Mail in order to be forwarded & proceed on her Voyage: But if there are any material Objections to this Mode I am still so anxious upon the Subject that I would have it tried with another Vessel at the Continental Expence, and will for that End direct that any Charge which may accrue in this Service shall be paid by the Paymaster here upon being duly liquidated. It will be necessary that some Person well acquainted with the Packet should be on board our Vessel or the stopping inward bound Vessels indiscriminately will give the Alarm & she may be apprized of her Danger. The Choice of a proper Officer with the Care of providing a suitable Vessel &c. I must leave to you. Should it meet with the desired Success there can be no Doubt the Hon. Continental Congress will distinguish &

reward the Officers & Men who shall have done so essential a Service. Nor shall I fail in making known to them how much the Publick Service is indebted to you for your Zeal & Activity on all Occasions—I am &c.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant David Perry, 6 September 1775
From: Perry, David
To: Washington, George

[Cambridge, c.6 September 1775

“Whereas God in his holy providence has frowned upon the Family of your petitioner, in that his Wife is rendered incapable of taking care thereof, by reason of having both her Arms broke by a fall from an horse; and he has a Number of small & helpless Children, And no One to provide for them,” he asks to be dismissed from the army.


Title: To George Washington from Peyton Randolph, 6 September 1775
From: Randolph, Peyton
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Sepr 6th 1775

I have it in command to transmit to you the thanks of the Convention of Virginia for your faithfull discharge of the important

trust reposed in you as one of their delegates to the Continental Congress. Your appointment to an office of so much consequence to America, and incompatible with your attendance on this duty, was the only reason that cou’d have induced them not to call you to the same service. Your Brother Delegates were unanimous in their acknowledgments, and you will believe it gives me the greatest satisfaction to convey to you the sentiments of your countrymen, and at the same time to give you every testimony of my approbation and esteem.
The Convention appointed Mr Henry Colonel and commander in chief of the Army of Observation to be raised, which is to consist of 1000 men, to be divided into two regiments; Mr William Woodford commands the second; the Lieutenant Colonels are Christian and Scott. Besides these, the colony being divided into sixteen districts, each district is to raise 500 men, who are to be train’d and disciplin’d and are to be paid during the time of training, and whilst in actual Service. Mr Henry is excluded from the Congress, the Convention having resolved that no officer concern’d in the Military shall be a Member of the Congress, Convention or committee of Safety. Mr Pendleton and Bland both resigned, and in their room Colo. Nelson, Mr Wythe, and Colo. Frank Lee are appointed delegates to the Congress.
I am much obliged to you for your letters; that relating to the motion of the men of War and transports did not come to hand ’till the account had been in Virginia some time.
We heard upon the road that Mrs Washington was very well, she was in Maryland to Visit Mrs Custis, who has got a girl.
I shall be much obliged to you to remember me to Edmund from whom I expect to receive a letter next post. I am your most Obedient Servant

Peyton Randolph


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 6 September 1775
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Lebanon [Conn.] 6th September 1775

I have received no further intelligence concerning the Ships which infest our Coasts—it is most probable they are not those your Excellency Notified to me.
This afternoon received Intelligence from Mr Shaw of New London, That he had by Capt. Champlin who arrived and landed safe at New London last Evening about Three Tons of Powder for this Colony—I have Ordered it to Norwich, excepting a present supply for our two Armed Sloops.
Please to give me directions relative to such part thereof as may be thought fit to be spared for your Camp. I have the Honor to be most respectfully Sir Your most Obedient Humble Servant

Jonth. Trumbull


Title: To George Washington from Joseph Trumbull, 6 September 1775
From: Trumbull, Joseph
To: Washington, George

Cambridge 6th Septr 1775

The Commissary General Proposes to Genl Washington the Expediency of purchasing, in Philadelphia, for the Use of the Continental Army 10 or 15,000 bbs. Flour—He supposes Flour may be purchased after the 10th Septr at Phila. at 13/ Currency ⅌ Ct or under—that he can have it freighted to Newbury at 1/3 ⅌ Ct he risking the Vessells, agst the Enemies Cruisers, only—& can have the whole Interest in Vessells & Flour covered in Phila. at 10 ⅌ Ct which will not bring the flour, delivered at Newbury Port up to 13/ Lawful money of New England—whereas the lowest we get flour at from Connecticut is 13/ ⅌ Ct there & 7/ ⅌ Ct Carting—A saving worthwhile may be made[.] But as this mode is attended with a Risk, The Commissary, in this as in every other Case, thinks it his Duty to apply to your Excellency for direction, & likewise to hint to your Excellency, that it may occasion no material delay, if you Should lay the Matter before Congress for their Advice, as the Business must be transacted where that Body are now Convened.
The Commissary General also requests direction from your Excellency, as to procuring Pork, for Supplying the Army the Winter & Summer next Coming—The Season for killing Pork is approaching, when he can purchase that Article, in any Quantities in the Country, drive it in, & have it killed & Salted, at proper places, within 20 miles of Camp; & thereby save transportation—The Transportation of much the greatest part of the Pork Supplied to the Army the Summer past, has Cost 20/ & 21/ ⅌ bb.—the Pork may be put up here as Cheap, as in Connecticut—& the whole Transportation saved—Salt, Barrels, &c. can be had here—& in a quantity sufficient for 20,000 Men one year more than £10,000 may be saved, & should the War be at an End the Pork will fetch it’s first Costs, at Least, when the Trade Opens.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Washington, 6 September 1775 [letter not found]
From: Washington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Samuel Washington, 6 Sept. 1775. On 30 Sept. GW wrote to his brother Samuel: “Your favour of the 6th Instt . . . came safe to hand.”


Title: General Orders, 7 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Sept. 7th 1775
Parole Cambridge.Countersign Dorchester

Repeated Complaints being made by the Regimental Surgeons, that they are not allowed proper Necessaries for the Use of the sick before they become fit Objects for the General Hospital: And the Director General of the hospital complains, that contrary to the Rule of every established army, these Regimental Hospitals are more expensive than can be conceived; which plainly indicates that there is either an unpardonable Abuse on one side, or an inexcusable neglect on the other—And Whereas the General is exceedingly desirous of having the utmost care taken of the sick (wherever placed and in every stage of their disorder) but at the same time is determin’d, not to suffer any impositions on the public; he requires and orders, that the Brigadiers General with the commanding Officers of each regiment in his brigade; do set as a Court of enquiry into the Causes of these Complaints, and that they summon the Director General of the hospital, and their several regimental Surgeons before them, and have the whole matter fully investigated and reported—This enquiry to begin on the left of the Line to morrow, at the hour of ten in Genl Sullivan’s brigade.
When a Soldier is so Sick that it is no longer safe, or proper

for him to remain in Camp, he should be sent to the General Hospital—There is no need of regimental Hospitals without the Camp, when there is a general Hospital so near and so well appointed.
Col. Thompson’s Regiment of Riflemen to be mustered to morrow morning at seven ‘OClock—Genl Green’s Brigade to be mustered, saturday morning at the same hour—These Corps are to be one day off duty, previous to their being mustered.


Title: To George Washington from Ensign Levi Bowen, 7 September 1775
From: Bowen, Levi
To: Washington, George

Roxbury Camp [Mass.] 7 September 1775

Admits being absent without leave from Col. David Brewer’s regiment because of “a Letter Recd from my Family, specifying that they where in a Poor state of Health, and knowing if that was the Case, that they Could not Do without my Assistance. . . . On my Return, my Collo. as was his Duty has Ordred me Under an Arrest, and am at Present Confined to my Tent.” He asks to be released from arrest and dismissed from the army.


Title: To George Washington from Captain Nicholson Broughton, 7 September 1775
From: Broughton, Nicholson
To: Washington, George

Glocester [Mass.] September 7, 1775
May it please your Excellency

I beg leave to acquaint your Excellency that I sailed from Beverly last Tuesday at 10 oClock with a fair wind, proceeded on my Cruise; on the same day about 5 oClock Saw two ships of War, they gave me Chace, I made back towards Cape Ann but did not go in, next morning I saw a ship under my lee quarter she giveing me Chace I run into Cape Ann harbour, I went out again that night about sun sett, and stood to the southward, next morning saw a ship under my lee quarter I perceived her to be a large ship, I tack’d & stood back for the land, soon after I put about & stood towards her again and found her a ship of no force, I came up with her hail’d & asked where she came from, was answer’d from Piscatuqua & bound to Boston, I told him he must bear away and go into Cape Ann, but being very loth I told him if he did not I should fire on him, on that he bore away and I have brought her safe into Cape Ann Harbour, and have deliver’d the ship and Prisoners into the hands & care of the Committee of Safety for this town of Glocester, and have desired them to send the Prisoners under proper guard to your Excellency for further orders.
also have sent the Captain of the ship we took for your Excellencys examination, and I shall proceed immediately in the further execution of your Excellencys orders and am your Excellencys most Obedient Humble Servent

Nicholasson Broughton


Title: To George Washington from the Gloucester Committee of Safety, 7 September 1775
From: Gloucester Committee of Safety
To: Washington, George

Glocester [Mass.] September 7, 1775
May it please your Excellency

We the Committee of Safety for the town of Glocester beg leave to acquaint your Excellency that Capt. Broughton of the armed schooner Hannah has this day brought into our harbour a ship he has retaken, and has committed the care of Vessel & Cargo & Prisioners to us according to the letter from him to your Excellency—we beg leave further to say that as the Captain of the ship seems very desireous to go back to Portsmouth after his Vessels papers which he says the officers of the Kings ship Lively (who first took him) has taken from him Conserning the ships Clearance gives us a good deal of Jelousey that his proceedings has not been according to the good regulations of the united Counsels of the Colonies—and are afriad if he goes back he may give or that the Enemie by his means may have notice where his ship &c. is, and we in this town be very much expossed to some Violent attack from the Kings ships.
we now send your Excellency the Prisoners Capt. Broughton delivered to us under the Conduct of Capt. John Lane.
We wait your Excellencys further orders & are Your Excellencys Most Obedient Humble Servents

per order of the Committee
Winthrop Sargent Chairman

P.S. we understand that Capt. Flag of the Captur’d Ship has purchased Some Quantity of Fish at Isle Shoales after his Vessel was clear’d unbeknown to the owner.


Title: From George Washington to John Hancock, 7 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Hancock, John

Sir
Camp at Cambridge Septemr 7th 1775.

I do myself the Honour of addressing you in Consequence of an Application from the Commissary General, who is by my Direction taking all proper Precautions on the Approach of Winter. I desired him to commit to writing such Proposals as his Experience & Knowledge of the Country might intitle him to make, which he has done in the Paper which I have the Honour to inclose. The Difficulty of procuring a sufficient Quantity of Salt which I objected to him he has fully obviated by assuring me that there is so much now actually in Store in this and the Neighbouring Towns, as will remove all Possibility of a Disappointment.
I propose to do myself the Honour of writing in a few Days fully & particularly on several Heads, to which I must now refer. In the mean Time I have only to inform the Honourable Congress that I have received a small Supply of 7000 lb. of Powder this Week from Rhode Island & in a few Days expect 7 Tons of Lead & 500 Stand of Arms a Part of the same Importation and to request that more Money may be forwarded with all Expedition, the military Chest being nearly exhausted. I am with the greatest Respect Sir Your most Obedt & very Hbble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Lund Washington, 7 September 1775 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Lund

Letter not found: to Lund Washington, 7 Sept. 1775. On 15 Oct. 1775 Lund Washington wrote to GW: “I recieve’d on Sunday last two Letters . . . dated 7th & 11th of Septmbr.”


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Washington, 7 September 1775 [letter not found]
From: Washington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Samuel Washington, 7 Sept. 1775. On 30 Sept. GW wrote Samuel’s wife, Anne Steptoe Washington: “The testimony of regard, which you were pleased to annex to my Brothers Letter of the 7th Instt filled me with grateful pleasure.”


Title: General Orders, 8 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Sept. 8th 1775
Parole EdingtonCountersign Falkland

Capt. Perry of Col. Walkers regiment, tried at a General Court Martial, whereof Col. Alden was president for “permitting persons to pass the Lines on Boston Neck,” is found guilty of the Crimes laid to his charge; but from alleviating Circumstances, is sentenced only to be severely reprimanded at the head of his regiment—The General approves the sentence, and orders it to be put in execution accordingly.

The Detachment going under the Command of Col. Arnold, to be forthwith taken off the Roll of duty, and to march this evening to Cambridge Common; where Tents, and every thing necessary, is provided for their reception—The rifle Company at Roxbury, and those from Prospect-hill, to march early to morrow Morning to join the above detachment: Such Officers & men as are taken from Genl Green’s brigade, for the above detachment, are to attend the Muster of their respective regiments to morrow morning at seven ’OClock, upon Prospect-hill, when the Muster is finished, they are forthwith to rejoin the Detachment at Cambridge.


Title: Circular to the General Officers, 8 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To: General Officers

Gentn
Cambridge Septr 8th 1775

As I mean to call upon you in a day or two for your opinions upon a point of a very Interesting nature to the well being of the Continent in general, & this Colony in particular; I think it proper, indeed an incumbant duty upon me previous to this meeting, to intimate the end and design of it, that you may have time to consider the matter with that deliberation and attention which the Importance of it requires.
It is to know whether, in your judgments, we cannot make a successful attack upon the Troops in Boston, by means of Boats, co-operated by an attempt upon their Lines at Roxbury—The success of such an Enterprize depends, I well know, upon the

allwise disposer of Events, & is not within the reach of human wisdom to foretell the Issue; but, if the prospect is fair, the undertaking is justifiable under the following, among other reasons which might be assigned.
The Season is now fast approaching when warm, and confortable Barracks must be erected for the Security of the Troops, against the inclemency of the Winter—large & costly provision must be made in the article of wood, for the Supply of the Army—and after all that can be done in this way, it is but too probable that Fences, woods, orchards, and even Houses themselves, will fall Sacrifices to the want of Fuel, before the end of the winter—a very considerable difficulty, if not expence must accrue on acct of Cloathing for the Men now ingaged in the Service, and if they do not inlist again, this difficulty will be Increased to an almost insurmountable degree—Blankets I am inform’d are now much wanted, and not to be got, how then shall we be able to keep Soldiers to their duty, already impatient to get home, when they come to feel the Severity of winter without proper Covering? If this army should not Incline to engage for a longer term than the first of Jany what then is to be the consequence, but that, you must either be obliged to levy new Troops and thereby have two Setts (or partly so) in pay at the same time, or, by disbanding one set before you got the other, expose the Country to desolation, and the Cause perhaps to irretrievable Ruin. These things are not unknown to the Enemy, perhaps it is the very ground they are building on, if they are not waiting a reinforcement; and if they are waiting for succours, ought it not to give a Spur to the attempt? Our Powder (not much of which would be consumed in such an enterprize) without any certainty of Supply, is daily wasting: and to sum up the whole, in spite of every saving that can be made, the expence of supporting this army will so far exceed any Idea that was form’d in Congress of it, that I do not know what will be the consequences.
These among many other reason’s which might be assigned, induce me to wish a speedy finish of the dispute; but, to avoid these evils we are not to loose sight of the difficulties—the hazard—and the loss that may accompany the attempt—nor, what will be the probable consequences of a failure.
That every circumstance for & against this measure may be

duely weighed—that there may be time for doing of it—and nothing of this Importance resolved on but after mature deliberation I give this previous notice of the Intention of calling you together on Monday next, at Nine oclock, at which time you are requested to attend at head Quarters. It is unnecessary I am perswaded, to recommend Secrecy, as the Success of the Enterprize (if undertaken) must depend in a great measure upon the suddeness of the Stroke. I am with the greatest esteem Gentn Yr most Obedt Hble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Robert Carter Nicholas, 8 September 1775
From: Nicholas, Robert Carter
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir.
Williamsburg 8th Septr 1775.

Were I not apprehensive that I should appear rather late in doing it, I am sure none of your Countrymen could with greater Sincerity congratulate you on your Promotion to the very important & honourable Post you now fill.
You will no doubt have heard the distressful Situation this unhappy Country is now in. We have too much Reason to apprehend that our Enemies will exert every Effort to annoy us. A few Troops arrived some time ago & we hear that a Regiment is daily expected from the West Indies. If general Gage should remove his Troops from Boston, tho. we are told N. Yk will be the object of their Destination, I can’t help suspecting that this Declaration is intended to amuse & lull us into a State of greater Security, being persuaded from Comparison of different Accounts, that his Visit is intended for Virginia. If Ld D—re can get him here, I am confident he will. It might be of singular Service to us to receive the earliest Intelligence of any Movement this Way.
The young Gentleman, who waits upon you with this, goes

recommended from our Convention to your Patronage & Friendship. It rests with me to furnish his Pay from time to time, but I really do not know how to do it, at so great a Distance, without your kind Assistance. If you could by any means contrive to have him supplyed, I will honor your Drafts at Sight.
That you may, my dear Sir, be shielded by the Lord of Hosts & protected from all our Enemies; & that you may long live to enjoy every Felicity this Life can afford is the ardent wish of yr very affte & mo. obt Servt

Ro. C. Nicholas

I shall be more certain of giving due honor to yr Drafts by Bills on London; if these can be made to suit, Specie grows very scarce here.


Title: To George Washington from Elisha Phelps, 8 September 1775
From: Phelps, Elisha
To: Washington, George

Honor’d Sir
Albany Septemr 8th 1775.

I received orders from His Honor the Governor of Connecticut, to forward the Lead according to your desire, which Lead I have forwarded immediately after it came to hand, which I trust you will receive as quick as possible by the bearer: at the same time wishing your Honor Success with it, and those under your Command, & that you may with it gain a Compleat victory over our Enemys, & give our Land freedom to Latest Posterity, may God grant: I am with the Greatest Esteem your Honors very very Humble Servant at command.

Elisha Phelps

N.B., 19 full Boxes & one abot half full the wght not assurtd but about Ct 53.


Title: From George Washington to Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 8 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.

Sir
Camp at Cambridge September 8th 1775

Upon the Receipt of this you will please to give Directions that all the New raised Levies march Immediately for this Camp, By a Resolution of Congress the Troops on the Continental Establishment were not to be employed in the Defence of the Coasts or of any particular Province, the Militia being deemed competent for that Service: When I directed these Troops to remain in their own Province I had some Reason to suspect a remove from Boston to New York, on which Case they would have been able to have given them more speedy Opposition: But as that suspition now appears groundless, there will be an Impropriaty in continuing them where they now are consistant with the above Resolve.

The Detachment which I mentioned in my last will march in 2 Days & I shall have Occasion for the Troops from you to fill their Places, The Ministerial Expedition must I apprehend by this Time have come to Issue they either returned with Disappointment or have succeeded in their Errand, In either Case the Men can be spared without Danger to the Country. But should not this be the Case and they are still hovering on the Coast it is to make no Difference in their March, so that I shall at all Events expect them here next Week for which you will please to give the Necessary Orders. I am with much Esteem & Respect Sir, Your most Obedient & very Humble Servant

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 9 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Sept. 9th 1775
Parole GenevaCountersign Hartford

The Major General commanding the division of the army, posted between Prospect-hill and Cambridge river, is to be very exact in obliging the Colonels and Field Officers, to lay in the Encampments of their respective regiments; and particularly, the Colonel and Lieutenant Colonel of the 30th Regiment.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Loammi Baldwin, 9 September 1775
From: Baldwin, Loammi
To: Washington, George

May it Please your Execellency
Cheelsea [Mass.] Sept. 9th 1775

I Returnd to my post yesterday after Settleing cheaf of my affairs & found all Well. The Bearer of this will Conduct to your Excellency a Person who Says he was Servant to General How. he came on to Noddles Island from there, he waded as far into the water as he could toward our guard at Winnisimmitt ferry, & Calld to our Guard to Come & fetch him over which they did & conducted him to me & thought it my duty to Send him to your Excellency.
Inclosd are the Observations that have not been Sent before. I am with all Respect your Excellencys most Obedent & Very Humble Servt

Loammi Baldwin Lt Colo.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Loammi Baldwin, 9 September 1775
From: Baldwin, Loammi
To: Washington, George

May it Please your Excellency
Chelsea [Mass.] Sept. 9 1775 Saterday 4 oClock P.M.

Inclosed are the observations of this Day Nothing Remarkable. This from your most obediant Humbe Servt

L. Baldwin Liet. Coln.


Title: To George Washington from Captain Nicholson Broughton, 9 September 1775
From: Broughton, Nicholson
To: Washington, George

Sir
Glocester [Mass.] Sepr 9th 1775

As there is several Matters of Complaint turnd up (since my Capture of the Ship Unity) against the Capt. of sd Ship, I think proper to acquaint you of the Particulars, Viz. as follows—on my sending of an Officer on Board Sd Ship, his Treatment was such as I would rather have expected from a polite Enemy than a Friend to our Cause as Americans.
I would acquaint your Excellency in the next Place, that there is on Board sd Ship, a much greater Quantity of Naval Stores than is customary to import from our Ports.
There is likewise as I understand some considerable Quantity of Provisions, much more (in my Opinion) than is necssary for Ship’s Crew. I would likewise inform your Excellency that the Capt. contrary to the Resolves of our General Assembly has taken on Board a Considerable Quantity of New Fish. And from those, And many other Circumstances, I conclude that Capt. Flagg, was designd for the Port of Boston instead of any one of the West India Isles—from this Consideration Sir, I (with the greatest Deference to your own Judgement) should think it proper, that the Ship should be remov’d to Beverly, as a Place of much greater Security, than her present Port; the Lumber which she has on Board is considerable & might be much easier remov’d to Head Quarters, for Service, from thence, than the present Port—I shall leave the Ship with the Committee of Safety, ’till further Orders. With the greatest Respect, I am Sir, your most Obedient Humble Servant

Nicholasson Broughton

P.S. I would not neglect acquainting Your Excellency (in Excuse for my makeing a Short Stay Here,) that my first Lieuttenant Was accidentally wounded; for the Particulars of which, or the Circumstances relative to my takeing the Ship, your Excellency will be pleas’d to inquire of the Bearer.

Nicholasson Broughton


Title: To George Washington from Nicholas Cooke, 9 September 1775
From: Cooke, Nicholas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Providence Septemr 9th 1775.

I am to acknowledge the Receipt of your Excellency’s Letter of the 6th instant, and to inform you that, Zealous to do every Thing in our Power to serve the common Cause of America, the Committee have determined, instead of the small armed Sloop, to send the large Vessel with Fifty Men upon the Bermuda Enterprize; with Orders to Capt. Whipple to cruize Ten Days off Sandy-Hook for the Packet expected from England; and if he is so fortunate as to meet her to put the Letters ashore at South-Hampton and send them by Express to your Excellency. She will sail Wind and Weather permitting the Beginning of the Week.
There is in this Town a Mr Du Ville, a Frenchman, who hath made several Voyages from this Port during the last Four or Five Years, and is esteemed a Person every Way well qualified, and to be depended upon, for the Execution of the Plan he proposes. He was with Capt. Hopkins the last Voyage when he imported the Ammunition &c. lately purchased of Messrs Clarke & Nightingale for the Army; and hath brought with him a Set of Papers to qualify a Brig[an]t[ine] as a French Bottom. His Scheme is to proceed to Bayonne in France, where he is well acquainted, and there take in a Load of Powder, which he says can be effected in Three Days. This Dispatch will be so great that Intelligence of the Vessel cannot be sent to England timely enough for any Measures to be taken to intercept her upon her Return. I think the Plan practicable and likely to be attended with Success. We have here a Brigt., a fast Sailer, and

otherwise a suitable Vessel for the Voyage, which will bring about Eighty Tons: And we will undertake to fit One Quarter of her, and to supply the Money to purchase One Quarter Part of that Quantity of Powder; which is the most we can do here.
I have written to Governor Trumbull upon this Subject, and desired him, if the Plan meets with his Approbation, to dispatch a trusty Person to confer with you upon it, who can return through Providence and let me know the Result, so that we may immediately equip the Vessel for the Voyage.
I have communicated to Messrs Clarke & Nightingale that Part of your Letter which related to them. They desire me to present to you their respectful Thanks for the polite Notice you have taken of them. I have the Honor to be with much Esteem & Regard, Sir Your most obedient and most humble Servant

Nichols Cooke


Title: To George Washington from the New York Committee of Safety, 9 September 1775
From: New York Committee of Safety
To: Washington, George

In Committee of Safety for the Colony of New York [New York City] Septr 9th 1775
Sir:

In the Recess of the Provincial Congress it is the Duty of the Committee of Safety to answer Your favor of the 30th Ulto to our President—We perfectly agree with You that the Instances of Collusion You mention are such Instances of Avarice at such a Time and in such a Cause as call for a severe Scrutiny and examplary Punishment.
Be assured, Sir, that we are vigilant for the Discovery of such Delinquents; and that those who may fall in our Way will not escape their just deserts.
The Gentlemen who informed You of the Arrival of a large

Quantity of Powder and five hundred stand of Arms, perhaps did not know that tho’ they were landed on the East end of Long Island they were immediately transported to New London and did not belong to this Colony or any of its Inhabitants. We have had indeed about three thousand Six hundred Weight of Powder bro’t in, and before its arrival we had not a Barrel in the Colony, except what was most sparingly distributed among individuals.
We deplore the Situation of the Army under Your Command; and were our Abilities equal to our Wishes, we should not fail to contribute to Your immediate Assistance and Supply. We are heartily sorry that your Poverty in the necessary Article in Question, prevents You from availing Yourself of the Advantage of Situation You have lately gained. But be assured, Sir, We have not Powder enough for the necessary Defence of this Colony; especially if any Disaster should happen to General Schuyler, which would render it requisite to give additional Strength and Security to the Northern Parts of this Colony the Inhabitants of which at this juncture are most sparingly supplied with Arms and Ammunition.
We shall immediately forward a Copy of Your Letter to the Continental Congress and write to them on the Subject—The quantity of Powder transported from Long Island to New London were Eight Tons as we have been informed. perhaps an Application to that Colony might prove successful. We are. Sir. most respectfully Your most Obedient humble servants

By Order.Gilbert Livingston Chairman Pro. Temp.


Title: To George Washington from John McKesson, 9 September 1775
From: McKesson, John
To: Washington, George

Sir
[New York] Sept. 9th 1775. 9 o’Clock P.M.

Since the Committee of Safety adjourned this afternoon, I am informed that one parcel of Powder landed at the East End of Long Island belonged at & was sent to New London but that a larger parcel was soon after landed at some small distance and forwarded to the owners in Rhode-Island—I could not be well informed of the Quantity in either parcel; but tho’t it my Duty to give you this Information; and am most respectfully, your Excellency’s most obedient & very humble Servant

John McKesson Secry to the Comme of Safety.


Title: General Orders, 10 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Sept. 10th 1775
Parole Indostan.Countersign Kendall.


Title: To George Washington from Brigadier General Nathanael Greene, 10 September 1775
From: Greene, Nathanael
To: Washington, George

8 oClock Prospect Hill [Mass.] Sept. 10. 1775

This moment reported me from the Whitehouse Guard that a deserter had made his escape into Bunker Hill—Two Centries fird at him but he made his escape I believe unhurt—As it is uncertain who it is or what he is I have thought proper to alter the Parole & Countersign for these Guards which if your Excellency Approves youl please to signify it at the return of the Sergeant—If this deserter has carried in the Countersign they may easily convey it over to Roxbury—it would [be] a pretty Advantage for a partisan frolick[.] The Rifflers seems very sulky and I am informd threatens to rescue their mates to night, but little is to be feard from them as the Regiment are all ready at a moments warning to turn out—and the Guards very Strong[.] I am with due defference your Excellencys most Obedient humble servant

N. Greene

Parole Coventry Countersign Germany


Title: From George Washington to John Augustine Washington, 10 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, John Augustine

Dear Brother,
Camp at Cambridge Septr 10th 1775.

So little has happend since the date of my last that I should scarce have given you the trouble of reading this Letter, did I not immagine that it might be some satisfaction to you to know that we are well and in no fear or dread of the Enemy. Being, in our own opinion at least, very securely Intrenched, and wishing for nothing more than to see the Enemy out of their strong holds, that the dispute may come to an Issue. The inactive state we lye in is exceedingly disagreeable especially as we can see no end to it, having had no advices lately from Great Britain to form a judgment upon.
In taking possession about a fortnight ago of a Hill within point blank (Cannon) shott of the Enemy’s Lines on Charles Town Neck we expected to bring on a general Action, especially as we had been threatned by reports from Boston several days before, that they (that is the Enemy) intended an Attack upon our Intrenchments nothing however followed but a severe Cannonade for a day or two, and a Bombardment afterwards for the like time; which, however, did us no other damage than to kill two or three men and wound as many more—Both are now at an end, as they found we disregarded their Fire and continued our Works till we had got them compleated.
Unless the Ministerial Troops in Boston are waiting for reinforcements, I cannot devise what they are staying there after—and why (as they affect to despise the Americans) they do not come forth, & put an end to the contest at once. They suffer greatly for want of fresh Provisions notwithstanding they have pillaged several Islands of a good many Sheep and Cattle—They are also scarce of Fuel, unless (according to the acct of one of their Deserters) they mean to pull down Houses for Firing. In short they are from all accts suffering all the Inconveniencies of a Siege. It is true by having the entire Command of the Sea & a powerful Navy; & moreover, as they are now beginning to take all Vessells indiscriminately, we cannot stop their Supplies through that Channel; but their Succours in this way ⟨hath⟩ not been so powerful as to enable them to give the common Soldiers much fresh meat as yet. By an Acct from Boston of the

4th Instt the Cattle lately brought in there, sold at publick auction from Fifteen to £34.10 Sterg a piece & the Sheep from 30/ to 36/ each—& that Fowls and every other Species of Fresh Provisions went in proportion—The expence of this one would think must soon tire them were it not that they intend to fix all the Expence of this War upon the Colonies—if they can I suppose we shall add.
I am just sending off a Detachment of 1000 Men to Quebec by the way of Kennebec River, to co-operate with General Schuyler who by this is, I expect, at or near St Johns on the N. end of Lake Champlain; and may for ought ⟨I⟩ know have determined the Fate of his Army and that of Canada, as he left Crown point the 31st of last Month for the Isle-au-Noix (within 12 Miles of St Johns where Govr Carltons principal force lays)—If he should succeed there, he will soon after be in Montreal without opposition and if the Detachment I am sending (though late in the Season) from hence should be able to get posession of Quebec the Ministry’s Plan, in respect to that Government will turn out finely.
I have only to add my love to my Sister and the little ones, and that I am with the greatest truth Dr Sir Yr Most Affecte Bror

Go: Washington


Title: General Orders, 11 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Sept. 11th 1775
Parole Lancaster.Countersign Middleton.

Col. Ebenezer Bridge of the 27th Regt of foot, in the service of the United Colonies; tried at a General Court martial, whereof Brigd. Genl Green was president, for “misbehaviour and neglect of duty, in the Action at Bunkers-hill, on the [1]7th of June last”; The Court are of opinion that Indisposition of body, render’d the prisoner incapable of action, and do therefore acquit him.

Ensign Moses Howe of Col. David Brewers Regt tried by a General Court Martial, whereof Col. Alden was presdt—for “contempt of the service[”]; The Court after due examination of the Evidence, acquit the prisoner.
Ensign Levi Bowen—of the same Regiment, and tried by the same General Court Martial for “absenting from his regiment without leave”—The Court find the prisoner guilty of the Crime laid to his Charge, and do therefore sentence him to be cashiered.
General Heath’s Brigade to be mustered upon Thursday morning next, at eleven ’OClock, and Col. Fryes Brigade, upon Saturday morning at the same time.
Col. Thompson’s Battalion of Rifle-men posted upon Prospect-hill, to take their share of all duty of Guard and Fatigue, with the Brigade they encamp with.
A General Court Martial to sit as soon as possible to try the men of that Regiment, who are now prisoners in the main Guard, and at Prospect-hill, and accused of “mutiny.”
The Riflemen posted at Roxbury, and towards Letchmore’s point, are to do duty with the brigade they are posted with.
The General Court Martial to meet to morrow morning at seven ’OClock; to consist of three Field Officers and ten Captains.


Title: To George Washington from Captain Gideon Foster, 11 September 1775
From: Foster, Gideon
To: Washington, George

11 September 1775.

“Begs Leave to Resign his Command⅌” of a company in Colonel John Mansfield’s regiment, “being at this time in an ill State of Health & finds his disorder increasing on him, & . . . his intrest being in a different Situation from what he Expected when he Engaged in the Service whereby he is like to be a great sufferer in his Estate.” He recommends Captain John Baker as his successor.


Title: To George Washington from Major William Raymond Lee, 11 September 1775
From: Lee, William Raymond
To: Washington, George

Camp at Cambg. Sepr 11 1775

  Return of the Officer of the Day.
  Parole Lancaster
    Countersign Middleton.
Went the Rounds, Visited Guards & Centries and found all Vigilent & Alert.

William Lee Officer of the Day


Title: From George Washington to Lund Washington, 11 September 1775 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Washington, Lund

Letter not found: to Lund Washington, 11 Sept. 1775. On 15 Oct. 1775 Lund Washington wrote to GW: “I recieve’d on Sunday last two Letters . . . dated 7th & 11th of Septmbr.”


Title: General Orders, 12 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Sept. 12th 1775
Parole, Newburry.Countersign, Ogdan.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Loammi Baldwin, 12 September 1775
From: Baldwin, Loammi
To: Washington, George

Chelsea [Mass.] Sept. 12th 1775 4 oClock P.M.
May it please Your Excellency

Enclosed are the Observations of yesterday & to day. I have observed that the Boat at Charlestown Ferry have passed more

frequently than usual last Night & this Morning Those from Boston to Charlestown being deeply Loaded with Soldiers & those the Contrary way with none. Nothing Remarkable Since my Last. I am Your Excellencys Most Obediant & Very Humb. Servnt

L. Baldwin Lieut. Coll


Title: To George Washington from Perez Morton, 12 September 1775
From: Morton, Perez
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Council Chamber Watertown [Mass.] Septr 12th 1775

Agreable to your Request, I am directed by the Board to inform your Excellency, that in consequence of your Excellency’s Letter to the Board, relative to the great Increase of Prisoners here, they apprised the 3 other Colonies of New England, thereof by Letters to their several Assemblies—In Consequence of Which they have received for answer, from Govr Cooke of Rhode Island, that their Assembly have resolved, & are accordingly ready to receive 15 Prisoners—whenever delivered from this Colony—They have also received another Letter from his Honor Govr Trumbull inclosing a Resolve of Council of that Colony of Connecticut, purporting their readiness to receive their proportion of Prisoners, taken by the Continental Army, & pointing out the Counties of Hartford & Windham as the most eligible places for their Reception.
Your Excellency will therefore, during the Recess of the Council send all such Prisoners, as may fortunately fall into Your hands, into the Counties of Hartford & Windham, in the Colony of Connecticut, unless Your Excellency prefers the Colony of Rhode Island, where this Colony has a right to send only 15 in number—The Goals thro’ out this Colony are crowded. I am with great respect Your Excellency’s most Obedt humb. Servt

Perez Morton Dpy Secry


Title: To George Washington from John Augustine Washington, 12 September 1775 [letter not found]
From: Washington, John Augustine
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from John Augustine Washington, 12 Sept. 1775. On 13 Oct. 1775 GW wrote to his brother John Augustine: “Your favour of the 12th Ulto came safe to hand.”


Title: General Orders, 14 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters. Cambridge, Sept. 14th 1775
Parole Roxborough.Countersign Salem

In obedience to the General Order of the 7th Instant, the enquiry into the Conduct of Dr Church, the Director General of the Hospital, and the respective Regimental Surgeons, has been held in Genl Sullivan’s Brigade; that being finish’d, the General orders the like to be held forthwith in Genl Green’s brigade.


Title: From George Washington to Colonel Benedict Arnold, 14 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Arnold, Benedict

Sir,
Cambridge Head Quarters Septr 14. 1775

You are intrusted with a Command of the utmost Consequence to the Interest & Liberties of America: Upon your Conduct & Courage & that of the Officers and ⟨Soldiers⟩ detached on this Expedition, not only the Success of the present Enterprize & your own Honour, but the Safety and Welfare of the whole Continent may depend. I ⟨charge⟩ you therefore and the Officers & Soldiers ⟨under⟩ your Command as you value your own Safety and Honour, & the Favour and Esteem of your Country that you consider yourselves as marching not through an Enemies Country, but that of our Friends and Brethren, for such the Inhabitants of Canada & the Indian Nations have approved

themselves in this unhappy Contest between Great Brittain & America.
That you check by every Motive of Duty, and Fear of Punishment every Attempt to Plunder or insult any of the Inhabitants of Canada. Should any ⟨American Soldier be so base⟩ and infamous as ⟨to injure⟩ any Canadian or Indian in his Person or Property, I do most earnestly enjoin you to bring him to such severe & exemplary Punishment as the Enormity of the Crime may require. Should it extend to Death itself, it will not be disproportionate to its Guilt at such a Time and in such a Cause. But I hope and trust that the brave Men who have voluntarily engaged in this Expedition will be govern’d by different Views that Order, Discipline, & Regularity of Behavi⟨our⟩ will be as conspicuous as their Courage & Valour. I also give it in Charge to you to avoid all Disrespect or Contempt of the Religion of the Country and its Ceremonies—Prudence, Policy and a true Christian Spirit will lead us to look with Compassion upon their Errors without insulting them—While we are Contending for our own Liberty, we should be very cautious of violating the Rights of Conscience in others; ever considering that God alone is the Judge of the Hearts of Men and to him only in this Case they are answerable.
Upon the whole, Sir, I beg you to inculcate upon the Officers, the Necessity of preserving the Strictest Order during their March thro’ Canada to represent to them ⟨the Shame & Disgrace⟩ and Ruin to themselves & Country if they should by their Conduct turn the Hearts of our Brethren in Canada against us. And on the other Hand the Honour and Rewards which await them, if by their Prudence, and good Behaviour they conciliate the Affections of the Canadians & Indians to the great Interests of America, & convert those favourable Dispositions they have shewn into a lasting Union and Affection.
Thus wishing you and the Officers and Soldiers under your Command all Honour, Safety and Success I ⟨remain⟩ Sir Your most Obedt Humble Servt

Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Captain John Baker, 14 September 1775
From: Baker, John
To: Washington, George

Cambridge, 14 September 1775

“Whereas Some Deficulty has arose between him & Joseph Pettigill who Shall Command the tenth Company in the 38 Regiment Command[ed] By Colonel Baldwin,” the matter was referred to “three officer[s] in Sd Regimt who brought in their award in favour of Sd Pettingall.” Baker asks to be discharged from the service.


Title: To George Washington from Nicholas Cooke, 14 September 1775
From: Cooke, Nicholas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Providence Septemr 14th 1775.

I am favoured with a Letter from Govr Trumbull in Answer to mine proposing a Voyage to Bayonne, in which he informs me that the Council of the Colony of Connecticut are summoned to meet this Day to take the Scheme into Consideration. This Sir is the Time to exert ourselves in sending to Europe for Powder, as the Vessels may perform their Voyages and return upon this Coast in the Winter, when the Enemy’s Ships are unable to cruize. I have written to our Delegates strongly recommending it to them to use their Influence that Measures may be taken to procure sufficient Quantities of that necessary Article. I have also advised them to move in Congress for opening some Lead Mines immediately, as the depending upon a precarious Supply by Sea when we have such Quantities in our own Country seems to me very preposterous. And I believe the Article in this Way will cost us less Money than it can be imported for.
Capt. Whipple sailed on Tuesday with Sixty-one Men on board; his Vessel being clean and every Way in good Order. I have given him Instructions to cruize Fourteen Days off Sandy-Hook for the Packet, and if he is so fortunate as to meet her to take her at all Events, to take out of her the Letters, Arms, Ammunition, and warlike Stores, and to land the Letters at South-Hampton and forward them immediately by Express. After the taking of the Packet or the Expiration of that Time he is immediately to proceed to Bermuda and, if possible, take the Powder into Possession without any Communication with the Inhabitants. I have given it to him strictly in Charge not to make any Use of your Address unless in Case of absolute Necessity.
The noble Example set by the Lord Mayor, Aldermen and Livery of London in their late Address to the King, will, I hope have a good Effect in the other Parts of the Kingdom, &, together with the Disaffection of the People of Ireland to the iniquitous

Measures now pursuing against the Colonies, added to our own Efforts, compel the Ministry to depart from their favourite Plan of establishing arbitrary Power in America.
This Letter waits upon you by Joshua Babcock Esqr.—He is a Gentleman of a genteel Fortune, a Member of our General Assembly, and hath highly distinguished himself in the glorious Cause in which America is embarked. I beg Leave to recommend him to your Excellency’s Notice, and am with great Esteem and Regard, Sir Your most humble and most obedient Servant

Nichols Cooke


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Loammi Baldwin, 15 September 1775
From: Baldwin, Loammi
To: Washington, George

Chelsea [Mass.] Sept. 15th 1775 Friday 2 oClock P.M.

May it please your Excellency
I have Just Returnd to Chelsea am Informed that the Kings troops at Bunker Hill have thrown up a Short peice of Brest work with two Embrasures nearly oposite Greens Hill Point I have not Seen it my Selfe but prepose to go down directly & take a View of it, and if it appears formidable or Materially deferant from this account I shall Inform your Excellency by Express but the Bearer of this is now waiting.
Enclosed are the Observations up to this time that have not been Sent before. I am your Excellencys m⟨ost⟩ obediant Humbe Servnt

Loammi Baldwin Lieut. Coll

P.S. The Said Brest work is about 30 yards from high water Mark & they were at work upon it yesterday.


Title: To George Washington from John Collins, 15 September 1775
From: Collins, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Newport Sept. 15th 1775

Agreeable to a Vote of the Committee of Inspection for this Town, I inclose you a true Copy of an intercepted Letter from the late Govr Hutchinson to a Gentleman in this Colony, only omitting the Names of that Gentleman, and the Bearer of the Letter, both of whom are Friends to the Liberties of America.
The Letter was laid before the Committee the last Evening; and although it is of an old Date; yet as it contains a Paragraph which may respect your Excellency as Generalissimo of the Forces of the United Colonies of America, We thought it our Duty thus early to transmit you a Copy of it. I am with the greatest Respect Your Excellency’s most obedt Hble Servant

John Collins Chairn


Title: To George Washington from Nicholas Cooke, 15 September 1775
From: Cooke, Nicholas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Providence Septemr 15th 1775

I observe that in the Cambridge Paper of Yesterday there is an Extract of a Letter from Bermuda to New York giving an Account that upwards of 100 Barrels of Powder had been taken out of the Magazine, supposed to have been done by a Vessel from Philadelphia and another from South-Carolina. This Intelligence appears to me to be true; and I beg to know your Excellency’s Opinion of it as soon as possible, that if it be thought best to relinquish the Expedition I may recall Capt. Whipple as soon as his Cruize for the Packet is out. His Station in this River is very necessary as Capt. Wallace hath equipped a Sloop with Six and a Schooner with Four Carriage Guns who may be very troublesome here. I am with great Respect Sir Your most humble Servant

Nichols Cooke


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 15 September 1775
From: Trumbull, Jonathan Sr.
To: Washington, George

Sir
Lebanon [Conn.] 15th September 1775

I have received your Excellency’s Letter of the 8th instant ⅌ Express who was detained by sickness, and did not deliver it ’till the 12th in the Evening, and my own bodily indisposition is some hindrance. Your peremptory requisition is fully complied with, all our new levies will be at your Camp, with all convenient Expedition.
At the time they were by your direction to remain in the Colony on some reason to suspect a remove from Boston to New York, that they might be able to give them more speedy opposition—I ordered Colo. Webb of our 7th Regiment, his men being raised in the Western part of the Colony, to take his station with three or four Companies at Greenwich the nearest Town of this Colony to New York, his Lt Colo. and Company at New Haven—The Residue of his and Colo. Huntington’s who were forward in their March, one Company to Norwich, and

the rest to New London—last Week I sent Orders to Colo. Webb to march the Companies with him to New Haven, to be on his way so much nearer to your Camp.
I am surprised that mine of the 5th instant was not received or not judged worthy of Notice, as no mention is made of it.
Stonington had been Attacked, and severely cannonaded and by divine Providence marvellously protected.
New London and Stonington are still menaced by the Ministerial Ships and Troops, that the militia cannot be thought sufficient for their security—That ’tis necessary to cast up some Entrenchments.
We are oblidged actually to raise more Men for their Security and for the Towns of New Haven and Lyme—I hoped some of the new Levies might have been left here ’till these dangers were Over, without injury to any of your Operations. I own that must be left to your Judgment—Yet it would have given me pleasure to have been acquainted that you did consider it.
I thank Divine Providence and you for this early warning to great care and watchfulness, that so the Union of the Colonies may be settled on a permanent and happy Basis.
I have before me your more acceptable Letter of the 9th instant—The Necessities of the Colony to supply our two armed Vessels, to furnish the men necessarily raised for Defence of our Sea Ports and Coasts, and to raise the Lead Ore, which appears very promising, prevents our being able to spare more than half a Ton—which is Ordered forward with Expedition—Before the Necessity of raising more Men appeared, We intended to send a Ton.
You may depend on our utmost Exertions for the defence and security of the Constitutional Rights and Liberty of the Colonies, and of our own in particular—none have shewn greater forwardness and thereby rendered themselves more the Objects of Ministerial Vengeance. I am, with great Esteem and Regard for your personal Character Sir Your most Obedient and very humble Servant

Jonth. Trumbull

P.S. The Glascow and Rose Men of War are not at Newport, and threaten that on the Return of the Swan from Boston, probably with Men for the purpose they will attack New London and Stonington.

All the Regiments in the Colony, at a great Expence have been extraordinarily disciplined, And one quarter of them on the Sea Coasts are selected, equiped and held in readiness as minute Men for every Emergency.


Title: General Orders, 16 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Sept. 16th 1775
Parole Wilmington.Countersign York

James Finley Serjt in Capt. Price’s Company of Rifle men, tried by a General Court Martial for “expressing himself disrespectfully of the Continental Association, and drinking Genl Gage’s health”—The Court sentence the Prisoner to be deprived of his Arms and Accoutrements, put in a Horse Cart, with a Rope round his neck, and drum’d out of the Army and rendered for-ever incapable of serving in the Continental army.
Serjt John Cotton, in Col. Cottons Regt tried by the same General Court Martial, for “defrauding the regiment of part of their allowance of provisions.” The Court sentence the Prisoner to refund, and pay back, fourteen pounds, six shillings and four pence to said regiment, and be disqualified to serve in said regiment, as Quarter Master Serjeant, for the future.


Title: General Orders, 17 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Sept. 17th 1775
Parole Andover.Countersign, Beverly.

The Revd Mr John Murray is appointed Chaplain to the Rhode-Island Regiments and is to be respected as such.
Col. Prescott being taken sick, Lt Col. Johonnet of the 21st Regt is to go forthwith to Sewells point, to take the Command of that post.


Title: From George Washington to Burwell Bassett, 17 September 1775 [letter not found]
From: Washington, George
To: Bassett, Burwell

Letter not found: to Burwell Bassett, 17 Sept. 1775. On 6 Nov. Bassett wrote to GW: “Your favour of the 17 Sepr came safe to hand.”


Title: From George Washington to Thomas Everard, 17 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Everard, Thomas

Dear Sir,
Camp at Cambridge Septr 17th 1775.

As I believe it will be three Years next December, since some of my Ohio Lands (under the proclamation of 1754) were patented; and as they are not yet improved agreeable to the express Letter of the Law, it behoves me to have recourse, in time, to the common expedient of saving them by means of a friendly Petition. My distance from Williamsburg, and my ignorance of the mode of doing this, lays me under the necessity of calling upon some friend for assistance. Will you then, my good Sir, aid me in this Work? I shall acknowledge it as a singular favour if you will, and unless you discourage me, I shall rely on it.
I have already been at as much expense in attempting to seat and improve these Lands, as would nearly, if not quite, have saved them agreeable to our Act of Assembly, had it been laid out thereon. In March 1774, I sent out twenty odd Servants and hirelings, with a great number of Tools, Nails, and necessaries for this purpose; but Hostilities commencing with the Indians, they got no further than the Redstone settlement, where the people dispersed, my goods got seized, lost; and the whole expedition (which I suppose stood me in at least £300) came to nothing. In March last I again purchased a parcel of Servants, hired Men at considerable Wages, and sent out a second time; but what they have done I neither know nor have heard further than that, after buying Tools and Provisions at most exorbitant prices, and not being able (for Money) to procure a sufficiency of the latter, my Servants, for the most part, had runaway, and the Manager with a few Negroes and hirelings left in an almost starving condition. This, Sir, is my situation, and to avoid a total loss of the Land, (as I conceive there are some peculiar circumstances

attending the matter, on account of other claims) or to prevent involving myself in any disagreeable controvercy in defence of my property, having already had a great deal of trouble about it, I am desirous of adopting, in time, the method of petitioning.
The Enemy and we are very near Neighbours. Our advanced Works are not more than five or 600 Yards from theirs, and the main body of the two Armies scarce a Mile. We see every thing that passes, and that is all we can do, as they keep close on the two Peninsulas of Boston and Charlestown, both of which are surrounded with Ships of War, Floating Batteries, &c. and the narrow necks of Land leading into them fortified, in such a manner as not to be forced without a very considerable slaughter, if practicable at all. I am, with Esteem, Dear Sir, &c.

G. Washington


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Ward, 17 September 1775
From: Ward, Samuel
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Philadelphia 17th Sept. 1775

Having nothing of immediate Consequence to communicate & determining to sett out for this City in a few Days after the Receipt of yr favor I deferred acknowledging it until my arrival here.
I am greatly obliged to you for the very kind Notice which

you was pleased to take of my Son, & the favourable Light in which you view him the Advantages of travelling he wants but those of a liberal Education he enjoys, he has seen some of the best Company in our Colony and from his moral & political Principles I flatter myself his Conduct will make him not unworthy of your future Regard every Instance of which I shall most gratefully acknowledge.
With Pleasure I observe that you have lately received some Powder & expect some Lead & Arms from our Colony I hope the Measures taken by Congress and by the Colonies will furnish you with such Quantities as will allow the freest Scope to your military Plans & Operations.
That Part of your Letter relative to removing the Stock from the Islands & Sea Coa[s]ts I laid before our Genl Assembly, I shewed the necessity of immediately doing it in the most forcible Terms & such measures were immediately adopted as have I imagine secured all our Cattle from the Enemy by this Time.
The innumerable Difficulties which you must have encountered in the Command of an Army under different Establishments in Want of Arms Ammunition regular Supplies of Provisions, a military Chest, experienced Officers a due Organization & a hundred other Things I have some tho’ not an adequate Conception of but from the Accts which I have the Pleasure to receive from my Friends in Camp I doubt not but your wise & steady Attention to the Service will surmount all Obstacles & that by the opening of next Campaign you will have the finest Army under your Comd which ever was formed in America: I am too sensible of the Multiplic[i]ty of Business in which you are engaged to flatter Myself with a regular Correspondence but whenever you shall communicate any thing necessary for the public Good to Me you may rely upon my best & constant Endeavours both in our own Colony & in Congress to promote the Service I most chearfully entered into a solemn Engagement upon your Appointment to support you with my Life & Fortune and shall most religiously & with the highest Pleasure endeavour to discharge that Duty.
The Congress began to do Business Last Wednesday but many Members are still absent. Colo. Lee Colo. Harrison & Mr Jefferson & the No. Carolina Delegates & some others are not

arrived Mr Randolph has been confined with a fever two or three Days. Messrs Wythe & Lee are under Enoculation so that Colo. Nelson alone attends from your Colony.
We [e]ntered into the Consideration of your Letters yesterday, for Want of a thorough Knowledge of military affairs it was not so well understood how an Officers having several Appointments could make any Difference in Rank for instance how a Genl officers having a Regiment or Company or a Feild officers having a Compy could alter his Rank, it seemed to be the general Opinion that all Officers should r[e]ceive Pay only for one Commission & that for their highest & that when the Army was reformed no Person should sustain more than one office but some seemed to apprehend that if a Genl officer appointed by his Colony as Colonel of a particular Regiment or a F[i]eld officer as Captain of a Company were refused by the Congress Commissions as such that the Colonies would appoint other Colonels & Captains in their Places that this increase of Officers would augment the Difficulties attending the Reduction of the Troops if such a Measure should be adopted upon the whole the matter was referred & as soon as your several Letters are considered you will be acquainted with the Sentiments of the Congress.


Title: General Orders, 18 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Sept. 18th 1775
Parole Brunswick.Countersign, Cambridge

The enquiry into the Conduct of Dr Church Director Genl of the hospital and the respective regimental Surgeons, to be held to morrow in General Heaths brigade.


Title: To George Washington from Lieutenant Colonel Loammi Baldwin, 18 September 1775
From: Baldwin, Loammi
To: Washington, George

Chelsea [Mass.]Sept. 18th 1775
May it please your Exeelency

I am constrained by the petitions of the officers & the Complaints of the Soldiers in our Regiment once more to Trouble your Excellency with the dificuties we Labour under for want of Fire Arms. By the returns this day received, there are wanting 43 Stands of Arms, with a small quantity of Powder, Ball, & Flints, to compleat the proportion allowed for each man—I should not now have had occasion to apply for this application to your Exy but by reason of my distance from Head Quarters the Arms have been taken up before I could apply & some times before I could even hear of there being any to be disposed of. Your Ex. will be pleased to remember that the above was one of the difficulties which I mentioned to Yr E. in a Letter the begining of the week before last when I desired permission to go & settle that with the other affairs. I have spared no pains thro’ the course of the Summer to procure those Articles of Guns, and as we expect to be mustered on Wednesday next, pray your Excellency’s particular attention to this request, of

            Sewall’sPoint
            Capt. Mighill
            no return

            Cogswell
            15 Guns
             5 lb. Powder

            Sherman
             3 Guns
            10 lb. Powder—Balls & Flints

            Corey
             6 Guns
            10 lb. Powder, &c.

            Pettengill
             2 Guns
            15 lb. Powder, Ball & 150 Flints

            Medford
            Capt. Jno. Wood,
            no return.

            Rd Dodge
             2

            Bar. Dodge
             6

            Rogers
             4

            Sprague
             5


Title: From George Washington to Nicholas Cooke, 18 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To: Cooke, Nicholas

Sir
Camp at Cambridge Septemr 18th 1775

Your Favours of the 9th, 14 & 15th Instt have been duly received: The Readiness of the Committee to co-operate with me in procuring the most authentick Intelligence & dispatching Captn Whipple for this Purpose, is peculiarly satisfactory, & I flatter myself will be attended not only with Success, but the happiest Consequences to the publick Cause—I should immediately have sent you Notice of the Paragraph in the Philada Paper (which is all the Account I have of the taking the Powder at Bermudas) but I supposed it must have come to your Hands, before it reached ours: I am inclined to think it sufficient to suspend Captn Whipples Voyage at least till farther Intelligence is procured from Philada: As it is scarcely supposable those Vessels would have left any Quantity behind worth the Risque & Expence of such a Voyage. As this Enterprize will therfore most

probably be laid aside for the present it may be proper for Capt. Whipple to keep his Station a few Days longer for the Packet. It must be remembered they generally have long Passages, & we are very sure she has not yet arrived at Boston, nor do I find she is expected there.
The Voyage to Bayonne is what I should much approve & recommend. The Person sent to Govr Trumbull has not yet called upon me; but the Scheme appears so feasible, that I should be glad to see it executed, at the same Time I must add that I am in some Doubt as to the Extent of my Powers to appropriate the publick Money here to this Purpose. I could wish you would communicate it to the Congress, for which you will have Time sufficient, & I make no Doubt of their Concurrence. In fact the State of our Treasury here at present is so low that it would be impracticable to be of any Service to the Expedition if all other Objections were obviated.
We have no News either in the Camp or from Boston except a Peice of Intelligence from the latter that the Enemy are pulling down the South End of the Town in order to continue a Work across from River to River.
Your chearful Concurrence with me in publick Measures & Zeal for the Service calls for my best Thanks: You will please to accept them & believe me with much Truth & Esteem, Sir, Your most Obed. & very Hbble Servt

Go: Washington

P.S. No Southern Mail arriving last Saturday we are apprehensive it has again fallen into the Enemies Hands. If it was not attended with too much Trouble should be glad you would cause Inquiry to be made—if by any Accident the Letters are at Providence you will please to forward them by Express.


Title: To George Washington from Major Christopher French, 18 September 1775
From: French, Christopher
To: Washington, George

Sir
Hartford 18th Septr 1775

When I first return’d to this Place in compliance with your Directions I found the Gentlemen of the Committee (Messrs Seymoure & Pain) who came to us on our arrival seem’d satisfied with our having already given our Parole to the united Provinces, and I consequently supposed all matters were adjusted between them and us, but upon their meeting on Tuesday last they put in a new Clause to which they desir’d our Acquiescence vizt: That we should not wear our Swords. The Day before their meeting (Monday) I had been inform’d that the lower Class of Townspeople took umbrage at our wearing them, and therefore represented to the sub-Committee that we had been permited at Philadelphia to wear them as soon as we had given our Paroles, and that I suppos’d the permission general as well as our Paroles, & both equally binding, & therefore requested we might not be insulted by being oblig’d to surrender them here, merely to gratify the Populace; I also inform’d them it was customary for Officers (& Volunteers, being Gentlemen,) on their Paroles to be allow’d to wear their Swords—They promis’d me to call another meeting in two Days to give me an opportunity of stating the Case to them, for the first had determin’d upon it without asking us any Questions, they did so, but I soon found that though they could determine against, yet they could not for us from the insuff[ic]iency of their number (six) and therefore objected to it’s Legallity, for in such a scituation and before a Court so compos’d neither could Argument weigh nor right take Place; They argued that their Officers were not allow’d to wear Swords when taken by His Majesty’s Forces—I, that I could not tell how that matter was, but that our wearing them was a matter already granted, & could not with Justice, propriety or honor to us be now counteracted.
They have however, Sir insisted upon the order of the Committee

(which as I have already remark’d directed it without hearing us being complied with, and we have acquiesced) however injurious we consider an act done by a convention of People not legally a Court, since deficient in numbers to determine for, as well as against us till your pleasure is known, which from the Stating of the matter in it’s real & true Light, your long Service & intimate acquaintance with Military Rules & Customs, to which I once more appeal, I make no doubt will be in our Favor as otherwise the Committees of different Places to which we may hereafter be remov’d, may continue to exact new Submissions from us, ’till they put us in Goal for non-compliance. I have the Honor to be Sir your most obt hble Servant

Chris. French


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Langdon, 18 September 1775
From: Langdon, Samuel
To: Washington, George

[Cambridge] 18 September [1775]. Certifies that Sgt. Samuel Woodward “is a Student of Harvard College in his last year & begs my Intercession that he may be discharged from his military services.”


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Langdon, 18 September 1775
From: Langdon, Samuel
To: Washington, George

[Cambridge] 18 September 1775. Asks GW’s “pardon for troubling him so often with Billets, but hoping for a favorable reception of another Certificate,” informs GW that Ens. John Child “is a Student of Harvard College now in his last Year, & is earnestly desirous of perfecting his public Education.”


Title: To George Washington from Simon Pease, 18 September 1775
From: Pease, Simon
To: Washington, George

Sir
Newport Sepr 18. 1775

This manner of Addressing You by a Person whom you have not the least Knowledge off may appear With some Degree of Singularity, But I make no doubt to a Person of your well Known Character & Disposition, The Occasion will be a sufficient Apology; as its the Cause of a Widow & Six Fatherless

Children to whom I am connected by Affinity & the Still nearer tyes of Friendship, which to the Benevolent & Humane will & must plead in behalf of the Addresser tho’ the mode may not be through that Channell wch it ought to have been directed, But being unacquainted with any other, I have undertaken through the Channell of Mr Baylor one of your Aids de Camps with whom I had the pleasure of being acquainted to represent this matter to you.
A Briga. Loaded with moll[asse]s the Property of Mrs Winslow & Her Children now at Boston, on Her Voya[ge] from the West Indies put into Stonington in Connecticut where she was, as I was first informd stopt by the Committee carried to Norwich & there unloaded to prevent the Cargo from going to Boston, on Application to the Committee, representing the Distress they wou’d bring on a Widow & Children by the Detention of their Property on which they Depend for Subsistance, I have receivd an Answer that the Vessell was Stopt by your Order & that they cannot deliver the Goods without an Order being Obtaind from you for that Purpose, which if produc’d they are ready to deliver them to any Person who may be authorisd to receive them, This I made Known to Mrs Winslow & have receivd from Her a Power of Attorney to transact this Business for Her, & I now therefore solicitt your interposition on their Behalf & Request that you would be Kind enough to send me an order to the Committee of Norwich, to deliver me the Goods or to any Person I may employ to sell them there, as I have no Desire to remove them, but only to get the money for them, shou’d you see fit to comply with this reasonable Request, as nothing can be done with the Vessell Here whether I might not without giving offence have the Liberty to send the Vessell in Ballast to Boston to Mrs Winslow, in which if there is no impropriety I shou’d esteem it a favour to have something to that purpose mentiond in the Order; your Compliance will receive the Thanks of the Widow & Orphan & the Favour will be particularly acknowledg’d by your most obedient humle Sevt

Simon Pease

P.S. I wou’d have waited on you in Person but my Business woud not permitt at this Juncture.


Title: To George Washington from Thomas Seymour, 18 September 1775
From: Seymour, Thomas
To: Washington, George

Sir
Hartford Sepr 18th 1775

As Major French proposes troubling your Excely upon the Subject of his not being allowed to wear his Sword while a Prisoner here, am directed by the Comtee to give a full State of the Case.
Soon after he came to hand by Mr Webb, the Comtee let him know your Excellys order and that an exact Compliance with it was expected—he soon began to raise Objections against conforming to the same Regulations with the other Officers, Prisoners, here, insisted that there was an essential difference, he not being taken in arms, as he said, but this was not all, he gave out, in high Tone, that had he joined his Regt he should act vigorously against the Country, & do every thing in his Power to reduce it, in Short, he talkd in so high a Strain that the People veiwd him as a most determined Foe; & in this light, they would not bare with his wearing Arms at any Rate—The Comtee therefore interposed & overuled his Objections, the principle of which was that, a Prisoner, upon Parol, always wore his arms: we therefore refer it to your Excely, whether, under all the Circumstances, the Comtee have acted in this matter consistently &

proper, & for the general good—I am in behalf of the Comtee with greatest Regard yr Excellys most Obt & most hble servt

Thos Seymour Chairman


Title: To George Washington from William Woodford, 18 September 1775 [letter not found]
From: Woodford, William
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from William Woodford, 18 Sept. 1775. On 10 Nov. GW wrote to Woodford: “Your favor of the 18th of September came to my hands on Wednesday last.”


Title: General Orders, 19 September 1775
From: Washington, George
To:

Head Quarters, Cambridge, Sept. 19th 1775.
Parole, Danvers.Countersign, Essex.


Title: To George Washington from Benedict Arnold, 19 September 1775 [letter not found]
From: Arnold, Benedict
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Benedict Arnold, 19 Sept. 1775. On 25–27 Sept. Arnold wrote to GW: “My last of the 19th Inst. from Newbury Port . . . I make no Doubt your Excellency received.”


Title: Permit for Clark & Nightingale, 19 September 1775
From: Unknown
To:

Camp at Cambridge Sepr 19th 1775.

Whereas the Necessities of the Army under my Command for Amunition are so great as to require all Possible Supplies, and Messrs Clark and Nightingale Merchants of Providence, having represented to me, that they will at their own Risque, undertake to procure from the West-Indies or elsewhere, such Quantities as may be purchased, provided they obtain my Permission for this Purpose, I do therefore hereby make known to all Committees and other Persons whatsoever, that the Voyage now proposed by the Sloop Fly and the Sloop Neptune are for

the above purpose and undertaken with my Privity & approbation, under such Restrictions and Engagements, as the Honorable Govr Cooke of Rhode Island shall think proper, to prevent the same from being perverted to any other Purpose than that above Specified. And I do recommend it to all Committees & other Persons, not only to forbear molesting or intercepting them on the Voyage aforesaid, but to give them all Assistance and Countenance in their Power.


Title: To George Washington from Nicholas Cooke, 19 September 1775
From: Cooke, Nicholas
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Providence September 19th 1775.

Yours of the 18th came safe to Hand, I made enquiry immediately after the Mail, was informed by the Post-Master that the Post took the Papers and he thought had carried them with him, after he was gone the Post-Master found he had left a Bundle which he supposed contained the News-Papers and followed him to the Tavern but he was gone from thence and the Post-Master sent the Package forward by one Marshall that lived in Cambridge or its Neighbourhood who Promised to deliver them safe at the Post-Office; as for other matters contained in the Letter, I shall take the most direct Steps to have them complyed with; shall write to the Congress by this Post. I am with much Truth and Esteem Sir Your most Obedient and most Humble Servant

Nichols Cooke


Title: To George Washington from John Hancock, 19 September 1775
From: Hancock, John
To: Washington, George

Sir,
Congress Chamber [Philadelphia] 19 Septr 1775

The Congress have sent to you by Major William Coates, & Captain Joseph Copperthwait five hundred twenty seven thousand four hundred and eighty dollars continental money to be delivered to the paymaster & subject to your Order for the use

of The Army under your Command. I have the honour to be, Sir Your most Obedt hum. servt

John Hancock President

The Cloathing is on the way. Your Letters are now under the Consideration of Congress, & you will soon hear from us. pray forward your plans for Winter &c. as soon as possible.


Title: To George Washington from Benjamin Church, 20 September 1775 [letter not found]
From: Church, Benjamin
To: Washington, George

Letter not found: from Benjamin Church, 20 Sept. 1775. On 24 Sept. Joseph Reed wrote to Church: “I am directed by his Excelly the General to acquaint you that his Unwillingness to part with a good Officer alone prevents his complying with your Request in your Letter of the 20th Instt. He desires you would stay with your Family some Time longer & if there is then no Prospect of its being in such a Situation as to permit you to return to your Duty you will receive a Discharge putsuant to your Letter” (DLC:GW).


Title: To George Washington from Major General Philip Schuyler, 20 September 1775
From: Schuyler, Philip
To: Washington, George

Dear Sir
Tionderoga [N.Y.] September 20th 1775.

The Day after I did Myself the Honor to write Your Excellency from Albany, I set out for this Place & arrived here on the 30th Ult: much indisposed with a billious Fever, next Day I followed General Montgomery whom I overtook on the 4th instant at the Isle au Motte he having been detained by Adverse Winds & rainy Weather, On that Day we moved on to Isle au Noix (twelve Miles South of St Johns) on the fifth I drew a Declaration (but was so ill that it is not such as I could wish Copy of which No. 1. You have inclosed) which I sent into Canada by Major Brown & Mr Allen & as we judged that going to St Johns weak as we were, (our Numbers not exceeding one Thousand and the little Artillery we had not come up) might have a Good Effect on the Canadians & to encourage them to join Us, We resolved upon the Measure and landed our Baggage and Provisions Except for four Days & early on the 6th embarked and without any Obstructions proceeded towards St Johns, when we arrived in Sight of It and at the Distance of about two Miles, the Enemy began to canonade, but did Us no Damage,

We approached half a Mile nearer and then landed without Opposition in a close deep Swamp which extends to very near the Fort, here we formed and marched in the best Order we could towards the Fort to Reconnoitre, Major Hobby of Waterbery’s with a Detachment flanked the left Wing, and was Something advanced before the main Body when he was attacked in crossing a deep Muddy Brook by a Party of Indians from whom he received a heavy Fire, but our Men pushing on they soon gave Way and left us the Ground; in this Rencountre we had a Serjeant, a Corporal & three Privates killed and one missing, Eight Privates wounded, three of which died the ensuing night, Major Hobby shot thro’ the Thigh, Capt. Mead thro’ the Shoulder & Lieut. Brown in the Hand, these Gentlemen are all out of Danger—Night coming on & the Swamp almost impassible we drew our Men together & cast up a small Intrenchment to defend Ourselves in Case of an Attack in the Night. In the Evening a Gentleman Mr ⟨mutilated⟩ whose Name I can only mention to Your Excellency, not having even ventured it to the Congress & therefore beg You to eraze the Scored Part of the Letter after Perusal came to me & gave me the following account, “That there were no Regular Troops in Canada but the 26th Regiment; That all these except 50 at Montreal were at St Johns & Chamblee; That there were then at St Johns about 100 Indians & that there was a considerable Body with Colo: Johnson; That the Fortifications were compleat & strong & plentifully furnished with Cannon; That the Vessel was launched & had one Mast in and the Other ready to raise; That she would be ready to sail in three or four Days and is to carry 16 Guns; That he does not believe that our Army will be joined by one Canadian; That they wish to be neuter on the Occasion, but if We should penetrate into Canada, it would not displease them provided their Persons & Properties were safe and we paid them in Gold & Silver for what we had; That in the Situation we were in he judged it would be imprudent to attack St Johns and advised Us to send some Parties amongst the Inhabitants & the Remainder of the Army to retire to the Isle-au-Noix, from whence we might have an Intercourse with La Praire; He told me that in the Afternoon’s Engagement five Indians were killed & four badly wounded, besides several Others the Condition of whose Wounds he did not know & Capt. Tyce of Johnstown, who was wounded in the Belly.”

On the 7th in the Morning (having been undisturbed thro’ the Night excepting by a few Shells which did no Other Damage than slightly wounding Lieut. Mills, I called a Council of War of all the Field Officers present, to whom I communicated the Information I had received & inclose a Copy of their Opinion No. 2 which being perfectly consonant to my own I immediately ordered the Troops to embark & we retired.
On my Return to Isle au-Noix I immediately began to fortify the Place and to throw a Boom across the Channel until my Artillery should come up. On the 9th I received a Letter from Canada without Signature but which I knew to be written by Mr James Livingston Copy inclosed No. 3. As I had thro’ other Channels a Corroboration of the Intelligence contained in the former part of his Letter, I resolved as I had not yet my Artillery to detach 500 Men into Canada and gave Orders on the 9th for their Embarkation on the 10th with an Additional Number of about 300 to cover their Landing & bring back the Boats. Copy of my Instructions to the Commanding Officer inclosed Number 4.
For the Event of this intended Expedition see the Paper No. 5 which was drawn and delivered me by one of the Party and from what I can learn is just. This Body returned on Monday the Eleventh, on Tuesday the twelfth I found I had upwards of 600 sick, Waterbery’s Regiment being reduced to less than 500. General Montgomery (for I was too ill to leave my Bed) perceived however with Pleasure, that the Men were unable to bear the Reproach of their late unbecoming Behaviour & taking Advantage of this happy Return to a Sense of their Duty, on the 13th I issued the Orders contained in the Paper Number 6; the fourteenth proved rainy & retarded the Embarkation of the Cannon, on this Day Colo: Allen arrived and made the Report No. 7; And I found Myself so much better that I had Hopes of moving with the Army, but by 10 at Night my Disorder reattacked me with double Violence and every fair Prospect of a speedy Recovery vanished. Great Part of the 15th rainy, the Embarkation much retarded by it, On the same Day I received the Letter of which No. 8 is a Copy; on the 16th I was put into a covered Boat and left Isle aux Noix and as it rained Part of the Day I do not suppose that General Montgomery could move until the 17th which proved fair.

The Mode of the intended Attack on St Johns &ca as judged best both by General Montgomery and Myself was as follows; To land as near the Fort as we did the first Time we went down, The two Row Gallies carrying a twelve Pounder each and well manned The Sloop & Schooner and ten Batteaus with picked Men to lay in the River, ready to attack the Enemy’s Schooner (which is compleat and carries 16 Guns) in Case she should attempt to destroy our Boats or get to the Southward of them & thereby effectually cut off all Communication between this Place and the Army—After this Naval Arrangement (which will take 350 Men) 500 Men to be sent as a Corps of Observation to intercept any Succours between St Johns and Chamblee and to keep as near the former as possible, two hundred Men at the proposed Landing to cover the Boats and secure a Retreat for the Men in the Vessels and Boats should the Enemy’s Vessel be too many for them, the Remainder of the Army to invest the Place, make the Approaches & erect the Batteries.
You will perceive by No. 5 that some of the Enemy’s Boats fired on our People, Capt. Douglass who commands one of our armed Boats pointed and fired a twelve Pounder loaded with Ball and Grape Shot at them & We have Accounts that about thirty of the Unfriendly Canadians were killed or drowned, In the first Engagement on the 7th we killed them six Indians, two Caghnawagas, as many Mohawks (Daniel & William a Bastard Son of Sir William Johnston’s), one Connasadago and one Huron & we are informed by a Caghnawaga & Huron whom I left at Isle-au-Noix, That not an Indian remained at St Johns & which I believe to be true, The four Deputies who were sent by the six Nations and left Isle au noix the 10th to request the Canadian Indians to remain Neuter, were not returned when I left Isle aux Noix. I have taken the liberty to desire General Montgomery to make a Present in the Name of the Congress to the Canadian Indians if he should think it necessary.
Since the Affair of the 10th the Army at Isle aux Noix which then conscisted of 1394 Effectives, all Ranks included, has been reinforced by Capt. Livingston’s Company of New Yorkers nearly compleat, on the 16th by Colo: Warner whom I met an Hour after my Departure with 170 Green Mountain Boys (being the first that have appeared of that boasted Corps, he left this with

about 50 More, but they mutinyed & the Remainder are at Crown Point, Capt. Allen’s Company of the same Corps arrived here last Night, every Man of which was raised in Connecticut About 100 Men of Colo: Beadle’s from New Hampshire (This Corps was to have been up a fortnight before, the Remainder 150 of that Body were yet to come) joined the 16th at Night; and I suppose the Artillery Company under Captain Lamb will join them to Day, these last were indispensably necessary as we had none that knew any Thing of the Matter; So that the whole Reinforcement consists of about 400. Yesterday I sent off 60 of Eastons and 140 more are just embarking, this is the whole of that Corps, About 125 of the first New York Battalion will embark early to Morrow together with the Company of Green Mountain Boys consisting of about 70.
Two hundred and sixty of the 3d New York Battalion remain here, which I will forward on as soon as I can procure Craft which is building slowly as most of the Carpenters are gone home Sick Your Excellency’s Letter of the 8th instant I received Yesterday I am happy to learn that the Troops under the Command of Colo: Arnold were to march so soon; I hope our People will Commit no Depredations in Canada, all possible Care will be taken of it, but Yet I have many Fears on that Score, as they stole thirty two Sheep at Isle au Noix contrary to the most pointed Orders.
Be assured Sir that I shall not fail of giving You the most early Intelligence of every Occurrance worthy Your Attention.
I find Myself much better as the Fever has left me and hope soon to Return where I ought and wish to be Unless a barbarous Relapse should dash this Cup of Hope from my Lips.
The Number of sick is incredible, and I have very little Assistance to afford them, I wish I could make You a Return of the Army under my Command, but I cannot get one, a great Deal of foul Play is carrying on.
I am indebted to General Lee and Colo: Read for a Letter but I am too feeble to write, Be pleased to assure them of my Respect and be so good as to make my Compliments acceptable to all the Gentlemen of Your Suit. I am my Dear Sir Your Excellency’s most Obedt & Most Humble Servt

Ph: Schuyler