Title: To George Washington from John Mathews, 30 January 1781
From: Mathews, John
To: Washington, George

                            My Dear Sir
                            Philadelphia Jany 30th 1781.

                        As this intelligence received yesterday possibly may not be conveyed to you through any other channel at this
                            time; and being well assured it will aford you much satisfaction to be informed of it: I have therefore taken the liberty
                            of communicating it to you. Tho the information does not come officially from the state, yet it comes in such a manner
                            that it is to be depended on—That Maryland has at last agreed to Confederate—We have the resolves as they passed the lower
                            house, which have since passed the upper house. This is a most important circumstance & comes very reasonably to
                            our relief: for C—— have been disputing for a long time past, what powers were necessary to enable them to prosecute the
                            business intrusted to them. and were at this moment, as far from agreeing about it, as when we begun. I hope now we have
                            some certain principles to act upon, we shall be steady & decisive. Tho’ the powers of the confederation are very
                            inadequate to vigorous prosecution of the present war, yet we must endeavour to make the most of them we can. and it is
                            better to have some authority to regulate us, than, (as for some time past has been the case,) to have none.
                        Virginia has agreed to a cession of their back lands, with some reservations. This is also a very important
                            matter, our present circumstances considered. I flatter myself it will give us some credit, which we stand much in need
                            of, and may possibly give a spring to our affairs.
                        Congress have been seriously engaged for the last ten days, in a committee of the whole, considering of the
                            ways & means for defraying the expenses of the present year. They have agreed to call on the States for a duty of four
                            Pr Cts on all goods imported, the like duty on all prize goods. and one eighth of a dollar Pr ton on all foreign
                            shipping. This it is computed will produce about 6 or 700,000 specie dollars. This is but a trifle when compared with
                            our wants—but however we are going on.Please to make my most respectful compliments to Mrs Washington. And believe me to
                            be, my dr sir With every sentiment of respect & Esteem Yr Excys most Obedt Servt

                            John Mathews

                            P.S. This has been wrote almost in the dark, & in great haste.


Title: From George Washington to Elisha Sheldon, 30 January 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Sheldon, Elisha

                            Sir—
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Janry 30th 1781

                        I have received your Letter of the 24th Inst.—and shall write to the Board of War on the Subject of
                            remounting the Regts of Dragoons.
                        The necessity of a regular & rapid communication between this place & Rhode Island has
                            induced me to reestablish the Chain of Expresses; The Count De Rochambeau, to whom I have written, will I presume, make
                            the necessary arrangements for conveyance from Rhode Island, to Hartford. From which place to Litchfield the communication
                            must be kept up by Your Dragoons—and from thence to Head Quarters Riders will be furnished by the Quarter Mastr Genl.
                        You will therefore be pleased to send immediately a party of Dragoons & have them so posted so as to
                            support the communication proposed from Hartford to Litchfield, both Places inclusive. the Detachment to be under the
                            direction of an Oficer or careful Sergt & to be relieved as often as you think proper. I am Sir


Title: From George Washington to Board of War, 31 January 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Board of War

                            Gentn
                            Head Quaters New Windsor Jany 31st 1781

                        Not having been as yet made acquainted with the mode proposed for remounting the Regiments of Dragoons, or
                            whether it is expected that the Horses for this service will be furnished by the Continent, or the States to which the
                            Regiments are now assigned. I could wish to be informed of the intentions of Congress, and that measures might be adopted
                            to put the Cavalry on a respectable footing for action, at the opening of the Campaign.
                        If the designs of Congress on this subject are not sufficiently known to you I have to request you will make
                            application to them, and communicate the result to me—Colo. Sheldon having advised me that no horses are to be expected from the State of Connecticut for his
                            Regiment This makes me the more particular in my enquiries. I have the honor to be Gentn Your most obt Humble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from George Clinton, 31 January 1781
From: Clinton, George
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir,
                            Albany 31st January 1781

                        I arrived here the 21st Inst. My Brother will deliver you this—it will be therefore unnecessary to
                            particularize the Situation of the Military—the Spirit of Discontent, which had reached the Troops here and discovered
                            itself by a mutiny not of a very aggravated Nature, has subsided and I am in Hopes a Repetition is not to be apprehended.
                        There are in the Troops of this State a Number of Invalids incapable of performing Duty in marching Corps who
                            at their Families and Connections are here would prefer a Discharge to being sent to join the Invalids at Philadelphia—These Men I conceive might be usefully employed if formed in a Company under supernumerary Officers and stationed at some
                            of the Posts in this State—which would be agreable to them and they would thus supply the Place of an
                            equal Number of other Troops fit for active Duty—If we discharge them as soon as they return Home and get in some Degree
                            recovered they are again introduced as Recruits and the Consequences must be the Loss of their Bounties and a second
                            Dismission which the forming them into a Company would prevent. I have the Honor to be with the highest Sentiments of
                            Esteem & Respect your Excellencys most obedt sert

                            Geo. Clinton


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 31 January 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Jany 31st 81

                        I have the honor to inclose Your Excellency the report of Major General Howe of his proceedings in
                            suppressing the mutiny of the Jersey line; in which all his measures were taken with decision and propriety.
                        Inclosed are also two other reports, of Major General Parsons and Lt Col. Hull of an enterprise against
                            Delancey’s corps at West Chester, in which with small loss on our side, the barracks of the corps and a large quantity of
                            forage were destroyed—fifty two prisoners and a considerable number of horses and cattle brought off, and a bridge across
                            Harlæm, under protection of one of the enemy’s redoubts, burnt. General Parsons’s arrangements were judicious and the
                            conduct of the officers and men employed upon the occasion intitled to the highest praise. The position of the corps, two,
                            or three miles within some of the enemy’s redoubts required address and courage in the execution of the enterprise. I have
                            the honor to be With perfect respect Yr Excellency’s Most Obedient & Most humble servant

                            Go: Washington


Title: From George Washington to Robert R. Livingston, 31 January 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Livingston, Robert R.

                            Dear Sir,
                            New Windsor Jany 31st 1781

                        The disagreeable events which have taken place in the Pensyla and Jersey lines—the general discontent of the
                            Army for want of pay, cloathing & Provisions—added to the usual course of business (which increases with our
                            perplexities) will, I am perswaded, be admitted as a sufficient apology for my not acknowledging the receipt of your
                            confidential, and obliging letter of the 8th, till now.
                        To learn from so good authority as your information, that the distresses of the Citizens of this State are
                            maturing into complaints which are likely to produce serious consequences, is a circumstance as necessary to be known, as
                            it is unpleasing to hear—and I thank you for the communication. The Committees now forming, are at this crisis,
                            disagreeable things; & if they cannot be counteracted, or diverted from their original purposes, may out run the
                            views of the well meaning members of them, and plunge this Country into deeper distress and confusion than it has hitherto
                            experienced; though I have no doubt, but that the same bountiful Providence which has relieved us in a variety of
                            difficulties heretofore will enable us to emerge from them ultimately—and crown our struggles with success.
                        To trace these evils to their sources, is by no means difficult—and errors once discovered are more than half
                            corrected—This I hope is our case at present—But there can be no radical cure, till Congress is vested by the several
                            States with full and ample Powers to enact Laws for general purposes—and till the Executive business is placed in the
                            hands of able men, & responsable characters. Requisitions then, will be supported by Law—Jealousies, and those
                            ruinous delays and illtimed compliances—arising from distrust, & the fear of doing more than a Sister State, will
                            cease—Business will be properly arranged—System and order will take place—and economy must follow—but not till we have
                            corrected the fundamental errors, enumerated above.
                        It would be no difficult matter to prove, that less than half the present expenditures (including
                            certificates) is more than sufficient—if we had money, and these alterations were adopted—to answer all our purposes—Taxes
                            of course would be lessened—the burthen would be equal & light—and Men sharing a common Lot, would neither murmur
                            nor dispond.
                        The picture you have drawn of the distresses of the People of this State I am perswaded is true; and I have
                            taken the liberty in a late letter, and in as delicate terms as I could express my sentiments, to hint to Congress the
                            propriety of the policy of leaving the resources of this State, and Jersey, as a kind of reserve—further than this might,
                            bring on me the charge of an intermeddler—till I could speak decisively of my own knowledge.
                        At all times—and under all circumstances—you will please & honor me by a free communication of your
                            sentiments, as I can with much truth assure you that with the greatest esteem & affection, I am—Dr Sir Yr most
                            obedt, and obliged Servant,

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., 31 January 1781
From: Trumbull, Jonathan, Sr.
To: Washington, George

                            Dear Sir
                            Hartford 31st Janry 1781

                        With much Anxiety I give you an Answer to your late Letters respectg the Supply of the Army.
                        Colo. Champion has been with me on the Subject—he will do every in his Power, with the Means wherewith he is
                            furnished—Cattle are plenty—Money is wantg—Colo. Champion will send on this Week not less than fifty Haed & not
                            more than One Hundred—he is furnished with means to procure a further Supply—I wish it was more ample—Every Exertion in my
                            Power will be put in Motion to fulfill your Excellencys Wish—I have been informed that great Irregularity has been
                            practized in the carrying on Cattle to the Army—at one time great Supplies—at another very scanty—after the last Complaint
                            of Want, such Numbers were sent on, that great Waste has been suffered—not less I am told than 1000 Head of Cattle, for
                            Want of Pasture or Forage—that after much Waste they have been Barrelled, & come out of Pickle nothing but Bone to
                            the great Injury of the Army—I know your Excellency is troubled with every thing—is there not Somebody who may regulate
                            this Matter, so as to have a greater Equality of Supplies?
                        The Salted Provisions which have been put up by their State are ordered on to its Repositorys mentioned by
                            your Excellyin this Town & Bulls Falls—some will be sent through to your Camp—Permitt me to Quere whether Bulls
                            Falls is a proper Place for formg a Magazine? I feel not—have convened with Genl Knox on this Score—& have
                            mentioned Woodbury & Litchfield—If your Excellency should think with me you will please to give me Information in
                            Season to alter the Rout of what is going to Bulls.
                        I am happy to find Genl Knox has been so successfull in his Embassy to the States Eastward of this—this State
                            has not decided on their Measures—my Council will meet me in this Town next Monday, when the Subject of Satisfaction to
                            the Army will be brout on—& I have much Confidence that a Concurrence will be given to the Means adopted by the
                            other N.E. States.
                        I do myself the Pleasure to send you per Genl Knox for your Perusal—two Volumes of political Pamphlets lately
                            sent me from London by my Son John—they are curious & perhaps to you they may be new—after Perusal you will
                            please to return them to me by some safe opportunity as soon as convenient—.With great Sincerity of Esteem & Regard
                            I am—Dear Sir Your most Obedient humle Servt

                            Jonth; Trumbull


Title: To George Washington from Meshech Weare, 31 January 1781
From: Weare, Meshech
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Exeter Jany 31st 1781

                        In my Letter to your Excellency of the 20th Inst., I informed you, that the General Assembly of this State,
                            had come to a Resolution immediately to collect a Sum of money, to be exchanged for hard money, to send forward twenty
                            four Dollars for each non-commissioned Officer & Private in our Line, as a Gratuity for their good Services. The
                            money was not collected quite so soon as I then expected, but is now sent forward by the bearer Mr Jedidiah Jewett, who
                            waits on your Excellency for your Direction about paying the same, he is directed to come as near as
                            he can, to what is done by the other New England States. I am not able to say what proportion of hard money he will be
                            able to get, there will be but little to be procured here; but he is ordered to get as much exchanged as he can, and will
                            be able to inform your Excellency respecting the matter, and take your Directions respecting the manner of Distributing of
                            it. I have the Honor to be, with every Sentiment of Esteem & Respect Your Obt & Humbe Servt

                            Meshech Weare


Title: Estimate of British Troops. Military, 1775-1783, January 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                                c. January 1781

                        Estimate of the Enemy’s force at New York Jany 1781

                                Brith Grenadrs 2 Batns

                                750

                                Light Inf. 2 Do

                                750

                                4 Battns Hessn Grendrs

                                1200

                                22 British Regimt

                                250

                                37 Ditto Ditto

                                250

                                42 Ditto 2 Battns

                                400

                                43 Ditto

                                250

                                57 Ditto

                                250

                                54 Ditto

                                300

                                New Scotch Regimts

                                76

                                400

                                80

                                400

                                Provls 150 each

                                450

                                Ludlows

                                Buskirks

                                Bartons

                            5650
                            Brought up5650

                                Anspach 2 Battns

                                800

                                350 each

                                Landgraves

                                Donops

                                DuCorps

                                Bureaus

                                Prince Hereditary

                                Hessian Jagers

                                Prince Charles

                                2450

                                B. and Hessn Artillery

                                Part of the 17th Dragoons

                                A few Hessn Chassrs Mountd

                                Delancys free booters

                                     300

                                Total
                                 9200

                        Militia & Refugees 3000

                        British force in So. Carolina & Georgia

                                7th Regiment

                                250

                                23 after the affair of Cambdn

                                247

                                33 Ditto Do

                                215

                                63 It has suffd in sevl

                                 encountrs

                                200

                                64

                                250

                                71 After theAaffr of Cambden

                                185

                                Rawdons Irish Voluntrs

                                204

                                Accg to intercepd

                                Letters are redd to

                                150

                                1st Bat. Delancy’s

                                 2 Do Do

                                 3 Do Skinners

                                Browns or P. of Waless

                                Tarletons Legion after Camdn

                                246

                                Hessns supd 250 ea.

                                Weissenback

                                Trumback

                                Detforth

                                Huyne

                                1000

                                A Corps of L.Itry after

                                Camdn

                                120

                            3067Brought up3067

                                Leslies Reinforcemt

                                2 Battns Guards

                                700

                                Fannings Regt

                                250

                                2 Comps. 84th

                                80

                                82 Regt New Scot

                                400

                                Boses Hessn Regt

                                350

                                Detachts from Provl Cos.

                                     150

                                1930

                                Arnolds Reinft

                                38th British

                                250

                                Queens Rangers

                                400

                                Robinsons

                                    150

                                800

                                Drafts from difft Co.

                                700

                                    1500

                                 Total

                                6497

                                New York

                                9200

                                Militia &ca

                                    3000

                                    12200

                                No. & So. Armies

                                    18697

                        The following estimate of the Enemy’s force to the Southward is taken from a letter of Govr Rutledges of
                            the 8th of December 1780

                                Posts

                                Works

                                Comg Officers

                                Regt

                                Milia

                                Total

                                Augusta

                                2 Forts

                                Col. Brown a Tory

                                300

                                60

                                360

                                Ninety Six

                                2 Ditto

                                Colo. Cruger Do

                                300

                                150

                                450

                                Stephens Creek

                                Kirkland  Do

                                50

                                50

                                Colo. Williams’s

                                Brigr R.

                                 on little river

                                1 Ditto

                                Cuningham  Do

                                200

                                200

                                Stiles Ferry

                                 on Rowan River

                                Block Hos.

                                Majr McArthur

                                200

                                200

                                Near the same place

                                Colo. Tarleton

                                300

                                300

                                Wemmesborough

                                No works

                                Lord Cornwallis

                                900

                                100

                                1000

                                Congaree

                                Redoubt

                                Captn

                                60

                                60

                                Intrenchts at Nelsons

                                 At Col. Simpson’s

                                Majr McWilliams

                                 at Congaree & at

                                 Nelson’s Ferry

                                200

                                200

                                Encree’s Ferry

                                A small Post of

                                Mila

                                Cambden

                                5 close redts

                                Lord Rawden

                                500

                                200

                                700

                                Near Cambden

                                A Small comd under

                                Colo. Gerry

                                Captn Blake

                                80

                                George Town

                                Colo. Cattell

                                80

                                160

                                Singleton’s Mills on

                                Force unknown

                                the heights of Santee

                                Kings Tree on the

                                 Enoree Ferry lately

                                 Arrived

                                204

                                204

                                Charles Town

                                500

                                500

                                Savanna

                                a very small force

                                Regulars

                                3584

                                Militia

                                1340

                                In the Harbour The Galatea Ship of War


Title: To George Washington from Clement Gosselin, January 1781
From: Gosselin, Clement
To: Washington, George

                                c. January 1781

                        Reponse des observation que Jai Fait en Canada Par ordre De Son Exelence Seavoir
                        l. Le nombre des trouppes en Canada SCs.

                        Ils Sont au nombre de dishuit Cens hommes de trouppes anglaise et aus environ de douze Cens de trouppes
                            allemande et douze Cens toré le tout Se monte a 4200
                        donc il y en a huit Cent qui Sont pour garder la pointe de Levis et deus milles dans la ville de Quebec et
                            le Reste Sont pour garder depuis Quebec Jusqu’a Lisle aux noix.
                        donc les dittes Trouppes, Sont commandées, par Le Géneral haldman
                            Commandant en Chef en Canada, et par le Brigadier General Macklinne, et Deus Regts Sont Commandée, un par Le Colonel
                            Cambel, et l’autre par, Le Colonel Bernard.
                        La quantité des Regiments et leurs noms est si difficille a Seavoir quil est tres Rare celuy qui le puis
                            Savoir aujuste.
                        L’opinion que l’on a des Généraux en Canada est tres avantageuse pour nous, Car la Major partie du peuple
                            Connoisse Tres bien, que tous les movais traittement quil leurs font tous les Jours, ne pourar finir par la Suitte qu’a
                            une tres movaise fin.
                        A Québec
                        2. Ils ont Fait un Souterrain dans la basse ville donc il est tres difficille de Seavoir la Longueur, vue que
                            depuis deus mois, Il n’y peut entrer qui que Ce soit, que des gens conue pour leurs propres Intérest, donc la plus forte
                            idée des derniers qui ont vue Ces treveaux Gens de probitée et Connoissant, descrit que Ces ouvrages pouroit Servir de mine
                            pour faire sôter Laville de Québec, aucas quil Se trouvassent trop Gênée par L’ennemis, et S’enfuir de Laville en batiment
                            S’il leurs étoit possible de passer Cest la le bruit Sourd qui couroit dans le tempt a Quebec.
                        Deplus ils ont Fait une Cloture de pieux de palissades, depuis, La butte a neveu et ont Renfermée Ce terrain
                            jus qu’au porte de Laville qui Sétend aus environ d’une demis lieu de terrain de Long Sur trois quar de Largeur, et y ont
                            joint un Retranchement de Fassine et de terrasse, avec quelque piesse de Canon quils ont posé en
                            different endroit, et n’ont nullement fait aucunne autres ouvrage et fortifications en massonerie, que Celle qui étoit
                            faitte avant la Guere presente.
                        a la pointe Levis
                        ils ont un Fort entouré de pieus et de batterie et de chevaus de Frise avec une grande
                            force Soit disant par des Gens Solide et que l’on puit Croire, et ont Desertée Le bois une demie lieu a laronde afin de
                            n’estre point Surpris, et par Ce moyen Se deffendre avec plus d’aisance et ont fait aussi un souterrain dans leurs
                            forteresse de même qu’a Quebec Chose Certainne.
                        3. Les Ressources du paÿs pour nourir un armée Considérable, Le Gouvernement de Quebec et Celuy des trois
                            Riviere Sont cette année tres abondant en blai, pois, orges, avoine ainsi du Reste, Car les habitans
                            m’ont assuré que de long temt il n’avoit vue une si belle Recolte, et que par Consequent, quil Seroit, dans le cas, de
                            donner une Grande aide a une armée qui viendroit pour Les tirer d’esclavage, pourvue quelL’on Les fit avertir assez a
                            temt, et auparavant Que l’anglais ne fissent Ses Levées, et q’alors étant avertis, quil Feroit en Sorte de tous Concevoir
                            pour notre armée.
                        D’un autre Côté les Bestiaux y paroisse assez commun, de méme que Les Cheveaux, Charêtte, et autre voiturre
                            necessaire, a une armée qui Iroit avec bonne apparence de Reussir.
                        Les Fourages dans Le Gouvernement des trois Riviere y est un peu Rare, mais, dans Celuy de Quebec Il y est un
                            peu plus abbondant.
                        pour le prix de chaque denrées Il est tres difficile de Le pouvoir dire, dans cette Saison icis, vue que tous
                            les Jours Cela Change de prix jusqu’a un Certain temt.
                        4. pour le Moüillage des vesseaux et Leurs Seureté dans le Fleuve St Laurent.
                        Dans la Riviere de la chaudiere il en pouroit moüiller quatres et hyverner a tres Grande Seuretée De 70 et 76
                            piesse, au Sagné des autres de 74 et de 76 piesse de Canon au sept isles il en pouroit hyverner Cent De toutte espesse
                            tant Gros que petit et le debarquement des trouppes le plus facilles Seroit a kamourasqua, a la pointe de St Rock, au Cap
                            St ignace et a bertié et les batterie de Canon pouroit estre posté a chaque place ou seroit les batiment pour faire leurs
                            propre deffense.
                        5. La disposition Des habitans du Canada pour les français et les americains est tres bonne dans la Major
                            partie, il desire plus que Jamais leurs delivrance et L’avenue de l’armée Pour se Jetter entre Ses bras
                        mais le petit nombre de Ceus qui ont prie partie pour l’anglois disent pour Raison quil ne veulent
                            nullement Soutenir Les Intérest du Roy de france parce quil les a embandonné.
                        mais quoique l’armée pouroit peut estre penetrer en Canada, avec quelque François qui pouroit avoir été
                            Rejetté de La françe, et Se Sont Mêlé parmit Ces Rebelles ne Seachant ou aller voudroit pour Se Retablire, faire croire au
                            peuple que La france Soutient le Rebelles, C’est Ce quil ne veulent pas Croire, et Croye que Si L’amerique et La françe
                            Puisse Conquerir Le paÿs quil ne peuvent estre que bien venue, d’autant plus quil Soutiennent Les Intérest d’une
                            Couronne.
                        alors Ces principes icis, Sorte et Sont Soutenu, de la boutique de quelque prestres qui les maintiennent dans
                            Ces Sentiment depuis le Commencement de Cette Guere.
                        Mais d’autres qui ont été plus Sage, a la vue des declarations de Monsieur le Comte destin, Se Sont
                                joiny avec Ceus qui Soutienent Les Interest de L’amerique, et Ces deClarations, Leurs ont Servie
                            comme de Rampart pour Soutenir les adversitées Les plus Grandes de la part des Genéraux qu’ainsi de tous Ceux qui
                            Soutiennent pour L’anglais.
                        6. Les Militiens du Canada sont en tres bonne disposition pour le Soutien De L’amerique au Reserve de
                            quelqu’un Comme j’ai dit Ci dessus qui Sont pour L’anglois, mais le nombre en est tres petit.
                        La Façon de Ramener Les Sauvages pour nous Ce Seroit de leurs envoyer un Expres, pour leurs porter deux
                            Collier de pays et une branche qui font trois, avec les armes Duroy de France, pour Reconnoissance de leurs perres, qui
                            disent avoir perdue, et en estre embandonné pour Jamais.
                        L’on pense en Canada quil Seroit bien a propos d’envoyer a Ce sujêt, Le nommé jean vincent, huron de nation,
                            et héritier du titre des premier Chef des villages Sauvages du Canada, qui y a fait plusieurs voyages avec moy, pour Les
                            intelligences les plus Risquables, et qui a toujours fait voir Son Zele, Son Courage et Sa fidélitée au Service du
                            Continent demême, que dans le tempt que Le Général Montgomery, a été pour prendre Le paÿs, C’est luy qui a opposée Les
                            nation de Se mettre avec L’anglois, et a beaucoup favorisé l’armée americainne par Ses Conseilles, de La façon d’entrer au
                            paÿs et de parvenir a prendre le fort St jean.
                        C’est Ce quil Seroit encore dans le Cas de faire S’il etoit employé a Ce Sujet, Car tous les Canadiens et
                            autres Sauvages ont une tres Grande Confience en luy
                        Le plus Soumis De vos Serviteur
                          Clemnt Gosselin Capt.

                            Athanas

                            Boudrau témoins en Canada


Title: To George Washington from Jean Goulet, January 1781
From: Goulet, Jean
To: Washington, George

                            May it Please your Excellency
                            Fish kill the  January 1781

                        To Listen the Crys of a Poor Canadian Refugee in the time of the Honorable and much Lamented General
                            Montgomery Lieutenant of Milita and who has since been employed in the dangerous risk of Bringin and Carrying
                            Intelligence to and from Cannada with Captain Gosselin and Lieut. Boileau of Col. Hazens Regiment with out having received
                            for this two years and a half past a Copper of pay and But verry few necessarys and Being well Convinced your Excellency
                            is the Father of Strangers being possessed of that original Clemency which all who have embraced the cause of Liberty
                            Experience under Your Command, it is not the Lucre of gain that tempts me to Remonstrate to your Excellency But to
                            acquaint you of the tribulation I and my Family have sustaind Since the Retreat from Cannada. Being obligd to tarry some
                            time in order to Settle my affairs I was unfortunately taken by the Tories and some Brittish Troops Who Burnt the
                            Commission I then held to ashes in my hand at Door of the Church Insulting & abusing me all the time at length I
                            determind to Escape at all Events from their fury which I Effected and Determind to spend the Remainder of my Days in the
                            Service of the United states, since my flight they have sent twenty five Brittish Soldiers to my house with orders to
                            plunder my Distressd Family at Discretion hope there fore Your Excellency will take the matter into mature Consideration
                            And your Petitioner as in Duty Bound shall Ever pray.

                             Jean Goulet


Title: General Orders, 1 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Thursday February 1st 1781

                            Parole Countersign

                        Light Infantry companies are to be immediately formed one from each regiment—and to consist of
                        One Captain
                        Two Subalterns
                        One Drum
                        One Fife—and for the present
                        Twentyfive rank and file
                        The honor of every regiment is so much interested in the appearance and behavior of the Light troops which
                            are a representation of the whole Army that the General exhorts and expects the commanding officers of them will exert
                            themselves to make a judicious choice for the formation of their respective companies—The Assistant Inspector General is
                            to review each company and reject every man who in his opinion is not likely to answer the above ends. The General would
                            prefer well made men from five feet six to five feet ten inches stature.
                        Every regiment that has at this time more than two hundred and twenty five rank and file for duty including
                            those on command and on furlough is to give a full ninth of its number instead of twentyfive for the Infantry company—and
                            as the other regiments increase in strength and exceed this number they are to do the like invariably—When these
                            Companies are formed they are to relieve the Troops on the Lines and do duty there by rotation in such manner as Major
                            General Heath shall direct.
                        The General strictly prohibits recruiting men belonging to one state into the Regiments assigned as the Quota
                            of another State.


Title: To George Washington from Paul Brigham, 1 February 1781
From: Brigham, Paul
To: Washington, George

                            May it please your Excellency
                            February 1st 1781

                        Sensible that applications of this kind must be very disagreable to your Excellency—therefore it is with the
                            more reluctance I attempt it—nothing but the want of Health at this period of the grand struggle would induce me to
                            Request Your Excellency Leave to resign my Commission in the Continental Army.
                        The want of Health being my present situation and has been for a Long time—therefore pray Your Excellency
                            would grant my request—and altho: the want of Health forbids my further service in the Field yet I please my self with the
                            prospect of further Services as a Citizen.
                        And have only to add my warmest wishes that his Excellency, may have the satisfaction very soon to see all his
                            exertions, and fatigues amply rewarded in a happy and Honourable Peace is the sincere Desire of your Excellencys most Obedt
                            Humble Servant

                            Paul Brigham


Title: From George Washington to Charles-François, vicomte Du Buysson des Aix, 1 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Du Buysson des Aix, Charles-François, vicomte

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Febry 1. 1781

                        I have received your favor of the 16th of January, announcing your promotion, and soliciting my influence in
                            obtaining your exchange.
                        I desire you to be persuaded, that I rejoice in your prosperity, & wish you an increase of
                            well-merited honors & felicities—but at the same time, I cannot conceive that the private concerns of any
                            individual should be preferred to the public good—or that general Rules established for the benefit of all those
                            unfortunate men, whom the fortune of War has placed in the power of the Enemy, should be dispensed with, on ordinary
                            occasions.
                        Priority of Capture has been an invariable principle, in making those exchanges which have been negotiated
                            under my immediate direction—And I see no reason for departing from so equitable a rule—the inconveniences I foresee would
                            be innumerable. the danger of partiallity would alone be a sufficient objection.
                        Besides this, from the number of Letters I have received from you, since your Captivity, you must be
                            sensible, Sir, that were a door opened for all our Officers, who are Prisoners to expect partial exchanges would be made
                            for them, my whole time and attention must be devoted to their applications.
                        In fine, Sir, I cannot interefere in this Matter, without violating an express Resolution of
                            Congress—counteracting my own sentiment, introducing a New System, & doing the Most palpable injustice. I am
                            &c.


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 1 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Febry 1st 1781

                        Capt. Lincoln & Lieut. Eldred, Prisoners lately exchanged, having applied for an extinsion of their
                            furloughs beyond the first of April—I shall have no objections to any reasonable indulgences in such extraordinary cases.
                            but cannot undertake to act upon particular applications, as this might counteract the general Arrangements made by the
                            Commanding officers of Regts who ought to be consulted, & give their Certificates that the services of the
                            applicants may be dispensed with, for the time proposed, before the Indulgence is granted. I am Dear Sir Your Most Obedt
                            & Very Hble Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 1 February 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            West point Febry 1st 1781

                        Major General Howe returned yesterday from the Jersies, I expected the Battalion Sent from the Lines under
                            the Command of Colo. Scammell would have returned with the other Troops, but the General informed me that he had nither
                            seen or heard from Colo. Scammell Upon which I immediately Sent off an express to Colo. Scammell with orders for him to
                            return with the Detachment up the receipt of the order, General Howe has Just now received a Letter from him, advising
                            that he did not arrive at Pompton untill the other detachment had come off that he has taken a position below the Jersey
                            lines and posted Guard out the several avenues leading from the Hutts, that it was the opinion of Some of the Jersey officers that his remaining in that position a few Days might have a very good tendency, that the Committee had not yet
                            gone through with the examination of the Inlistments, that probably, their decision would not be conformable to the
                            expectations of Some of the Soldiers, and that desertions might be a Consequent, for these reasons he intended to remain
                            their until he received further orders, I have therefore sent another express with discretionary orders for him to
                            return, or Stay a few Days longer as the appearance of things may require.
                        I am just informed that the Small Pox is in all places in this vicinity and at the Park of Artillery, as
                            there are Some few of the Troops who have not had it, will it not be adviseable for such as incline, to have it. I have the
                            honor to be with the greatest pride your Excellencys most obedient Servant

                            W. Heath M. General

                            M. General


Title: To George Washington from William Heath, 1 February 1781
From: Heath, William
To: Washington, George

                            Dear General
                            West point Febry 1st 1781.

                        Some Days Since the enclosed was handed to me by Mr Perote I have endeavoured through the Officers of the
                            Brigade Cantoond near Mr Perotes to find if any evidence could be obtained that would, lead to a detection of the Persons
                            who killed his Cattle, but upon the Strictest equiry none can be found, Mr Perote tells me all the Cattle he has lost
                            except one were killed before the Present Troops came to this post. He appears to be an honest man and is I believe a
                            Friend to his Country and has Suffered much. I have the honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most
                            obedt Servant

                            W. Heath


Title: From David Humphreys to Timothy Pickering, 1 February 1781
From: Humphreys, David
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 1st 1781

                        I have by direction of His Excellency to inform you—that Report has been made to him, the new Road to West
                            Point is so far opened, as to be passable by Sleighs: he requests therefore that the flour which he understands is
                            on the communication may be thrown directly into the Garrison, by that way, as being the most convenient &
                            expeditious made, while the sleighing. I am Dear Sir With great regard & esteem Your Most Obed. Servt

                            D. Humphrys A.D.C.


Title: To George Washington from Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von] Steuben, 1 February 1781
From: Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron [von]
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Richmond 1st February 1781

                        I had the honor of addressing Your Excellency the 21 Instant informing you of the Enemies movements down to
                            that date they remain at Portsmouth where they are throwing up some works for their defence.
                        Among the greatest mischiefs occasiond by this invasion is the total derangement of all the measures we were
                            taking for the support of the Southern Army—the calling out the Militia will necessarily exhaust our Provisions &
                            the raising the Recruits & every other supply requested from the state will be delayed at least
                            two Months. As for Arms we cannot expect a single one from the State. The few they had are in the hands of the Militia
                            & do not amount to 4000 wholly without Bayonets & the most of them in very bad order the 3000 Men Voted
                            must therefore be armed from the Northward for should the Enemy even quit the state it cannot be supposed they will leave
                            themselves intirely Unarmed.
                        With respect to Cloathing their situation is not much better—their troops now serving to the southard are
                            entirely Naked except Colo. Greens Detachment whom I cloathed in tolerable manner before they marched—those at
                            Chesterfield are as miserable as they can be—Naked & consequently Sickly. I  myself all
                            in my power to get them cloathed in order to send them into Genl Green.
                        From the dispersed situation of the Cavalry at the Southard I have not been able to procure rReturns of them
                            the two Regiments together amount to about 300 Men badly Armed and Mounted The artillery amounts to about 100 Men in as
                            bad a situation as the other Troops.
                        The number of Troops of this State now in service is nearly as follows

                                Colo. Bufords Detachmt

                                500

                                Green

                                400

                                at Chesterfield

                                500

                                hut P.M.

                                120

                                Cavalry

                                300

                                Artillery

                                     100

                                1920

                        to this add the 3000 Men to be raised & the state will be defficient near 2000 Men.
                        Inclosed I transmitt your Excellency Copy of a Letter from Genl Green by which you will see that Armands
                            Corps were sent here as unfit for Service—they Joined me the day the Enemy enterd Richmond as I had at that time only 40
                            Militia with me, their Services were essentially necessary. I therefore orderd them to be Armed—when Eleven of the
                            Infantry mutinied & refused to take Arms or Act against the English alledging their being Prisoners taken with
                            Burgoyne—the same spirit had also begun to prevail among the Cavalry but having the Ringleader shot the next day,
                            & some of the others Whilst the whole Returned to their Duty—I have procured them 30 pr Boots & a few
                            essential Articles & they are now with Genl Mulenberg. I should be glad to receive your Excellencys directions
                            with respect to them.
                        The Governor has called the Assembly who are to meet the 1st of March and I propose endeavouring to get some
                            better Arrangements made with their Militia—Tho’ from the very dispersed situation of the Inhabitants & their
                            almost wholly unarmed—this Country will always be more defenceless than any of the Northern States—I have proposed to have
                            a Battery with a Redoubt & block houses built at Hoods for the defense of the River—the Governor & Council
                            have agreed to the proposal & it will be begun in a few days.


Title: From David Humphreys to Ebenezer Stevens, 1 February 1781
From: Humphreys, David
To: Stevens, Ebenezer

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 1st 1781

                        I have laid your Letter of this day, together with the enclosure before His Excellency the Commander in Chief,
                            who is pleased to grant his free Pardon to William Hart, agreeably to the request of Capt. Hubbell, and yourself. I am Sir.
                            &c.

                            D. Humphrys


Title: From David Humphreys to Ephraim Blaine, 2 February 1781
From: Humphreys, David
To: Blaine, Ephraim

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters Febry 2. 1781

                        The bearer Mr Perote waits upon you by His Excellency’s direction—If it can be made to appear satisfactorily
                            to you, that the Cattle were applied to the public use—the General would have some compensation made for them. Mr Perote’s
                            character & circumstances plead in his favor; but a precedent should not be established, notwithstanding, which
                            will do injustice to the Public. I am Sir &c.

                            D. Humphrys


Title: To George Washington from Henry Clinton, 2 February 1781
From: Clinton, Henry
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            N. York, February 2d 1781.

                        I have received Your Letter of the 25th Ultimo, and have communicated to Major Genl Phillips that part of it
                            which relates to him.
                        With respect to the admitting Mr John Franklin to reside here as Agent, I am to inform you, Sir, that his
                            Conduct was so very exceptionable, when he lived in this City before, that the Commandant found it requisite to remove him
                            and his Family, without the Lines.
                        The Naval Prisoners being entirely under the direction of the Officer Commanding The King’s Ships on this
                            Station, I took the earliest opportunity of transmitting Your Letter to Vice Admiral Arbuthnot, through the Naval Officer
                            Commanding at New York, and I am persuaded His Excellency will immediately direct the grievances complained of to be
                            redressed, if, upon Enquiry, they are found to exist. I am Sir Your humble Servant

                            H. Clinton


Title: From George Washington to Nathanael Greene, 2 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Greene, Nathanael

                            Dear Sir.
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Febry 2nd 1781.

                        From the general idea I have been able to acquire of the Country by Maps, as well as from the description you
                            give of it, & its resources, Your Position at the Cheraws, on the East Side of the Pedee seems to have been very
                            judiciously chosen. The motives for Detaching Brigadier Genl Morgan, and the objects given him in charge, appear also to
                            be supported upon just Military Principles. It will be obtaining a great point, if you should be able to streighten the
                            Enemy’s Quarters, & prevent them from prosecuting offensive operations, untill your Army can be put on a more
                            reputable footing in point of numbers & supplies.
                        After Congress had placed Col. Armands & Lieut. Col. Lee’s Corps on the new Establishment,
                            application was made for my opinion, in what Manner it would be eligible to have them mounted & supplied: in
                            answer to which I proposed it should be done by the Continent at large, thro’ the Board of War: since which Congress have
                            passed the enclosed Resolution No. 2 respecting the compleating of Colo. Armands Corps—at what period it may be proper to
                            carry this act into execution, circumstances alone must dictate. In the present situation, it was undoubtedly best to send
                            the remains of this Corps to Virginia to recruit—Which I fear will not be fit for service, for a considerable time, unless
                            Col. Armand should succeed in his proposal of going to France, to procure, on his own credit, a supply of Cloaths, Arms,
                            Accoutrements &C.
                        You will be pleased also to observe I have also transmitted a Copy of the Resolution of the 1st of Janry No.
                            1 Expressing the sense of Congress respecting the Arranging of the Officers who have been or are Prisoners.
                        Since I wrote to you on the 9th and added a Postscript of the 11th of January the Emissaries from the Enemy
                            have been executed, and the affair of the Pennsylvania Line compromised, by the intervention of the Civil Authority of
                            the State: This (tho perhaps the only measure that could have been adopted in our circumstances) has been productive of
                            ill consequences, by inducing other Troops to follow the same example—I mean a part of the Jersey Line, who mutinied in
                            the same manner on the 19th Ulto.—Determined to put a stop to this conduct, & to restore discipline, at every
                            hazard, I immediately ordered a Detachment to each from West Point, under the Command of Major General Howe, who
                            surrounded the Mutineers by surprize in their Quarters, reduced them to unconditional submission & executed two of
                            their Instigators on the spot—This has totally quelled the spirit of Mutiny, and every thing is now quiet—Indeed the
                            Detachment under Gen. Howe, deserves infinite credit—And the remainder of the Troops at these Posts, discovered the best
                            disposition on the occasion.
                        The States seem to be somewhat roused from their late supine condition—Congress have called in the most
                            pressing manner for money & supplies—And we hope more vigourous & effectual exertions will be the
                            consequence.
                        About 10 Days ago, General Parsons attempted, with a Detachment from the Line, to surprize the Refugee Corps
                            at Morrissania succeeded so far as to Capture 54 of DeLancey’s Corps, destroy their Huts, a quantity of Forage, &
                            the Pontoon Bridge over Harlem Creek—he also brought off a Large number of Cattle & Horses;
                            with inconsiderable loss—I am Dear Sir

                     Majr Gen. Greene


Title: From George Washington to William Heath, 2 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Heath, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Febry 2d 1781

                        I have been favored with your Letters of the 30th of January and 1st Instant.
                        You will be pleased to observe that Colonel Cranes Regiment is not to be included in the present distribution of
                            Cloathing in the Massachusetts Returns,;because this Regt has already drawn a proportion of Cloathing with the Corps of
                            Artillery — and the second dividend is to be made upon the same principles.The Return called for, I wish may be forwarded as
                            soon as possible.
                        I am surprised you did not learn from Genl Howe the cause of the detention of Col. Scammell’s Detachment—as
                            the Order was communicated thro him.
                        It will certainly be adviseable to innoculate such of the Troops, as have not had the Small Pox under proper
                            restrictions. Doctr Cochran will wait on you, respecting this matter tomorrow. I am Dear Sir With great regard & esteem Your Most Obed. Servt
                        Go: Washington
                            P.S. I am this moment informed by a Letter from Genl Lincoln that the Assembly of Massachusetts have
                                ordered 1500 Coats to be  immediately purchased for their Troops in Camp.


Title: To George Washington from Samuel Huntington, 2 February 1781
From: Huntington, Samuel
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Philadelphia February 2. 1781

                        By the enclosed Resolve of the 1st Instant your Excellency will be informed that the Resolution of Congress
                            of the 4th of September 1778 allowing Officers three Dollars a Day for Expences on Business not incidental to their Office
                            is repealed and to have no Effects from and after the first Day of March next.
                        I am desired by Mr Secretary Thomson to request your Excellency would be so obliging as to forward by the
                            first convenient Opportunity the enclosed Letter addressed to Mr Mathew Cowper. With the highest Respect I have the Honor
                            to be your Excellency’s most obedient & most humble Servant

                            Sam. Huntington President


Title: From David Humphreys to Timothy Pickering, 2 February 1781
From: Humphreys, David
To: Pickering, Timothy

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Febry 2nd 1781

                        It having been found necessary to reestablish a Chain of Expresses from Head Quarters to Rhode Island—the
                            communication will be kept up, by Dragoons, from the last mentioned place to Litchfield inclusive: from whence The General
                            would have the Chain continued by Riders furnished from your Department: One Stage (exclusive of Fish–kill, where there are
                            always Expresses) he supposes will be sufficient: the most convenient place for this will be at Col. Morehouse’s or
                            between that, & Bulls Iron Works; where by having two Riders stationed, the line of conveyance will be compleat. I
                            have the honor to be Dr Sr Your Very Hble Servt

                            D. Humphrys A.D.C.

                            P.S. Col. Webb informs he passed a quantity of flour on the Road near Warwich, & that he was
                                told there were 100 Barrels a little in the rear.


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 2 February 1781
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir,
                            Newport February 2d 1781

                        I have received your Excellency’s Letter of the 23d last month, I cannot too much admire, on one part the
                            wisdom of the means employed by your Excellency to leave to congrés an affair in which the military Discipline could not
                            interfere without using rigorous measures that would not have been well timed on the other part, all the Sentiments of
                            Patriotism of Virtue, of reason, existing among a number of men exasperated and revolted, under the most reprehensible and
                            most dangerous forms. I am in hopes that the causes of the want of Provisions, and most necessary things that your army
                            Labours under, are going to be compleatly removed and that your Excellency will have a favorable moment to come and see
                            this corps under your orders, that expects you with the greatest impatience, from the general down to the soldier.
                        The chain of communication of Lauzun’s huzzards is to be pushed as far as Hartford according to the orders of
                            your Excellency. I have seen the Lieutenant Colonel Laurens. I have talked to him, with all the Truth and openness of my
                            soul, and I have specially recommended to him to do the same, and to speak freely and with an open heart about the
                            Distress of this unhappy country, unless it be strongly and powerfully succoured.
                        But the forms of Congréss are very slow, it comes rather late. They should have sent him with my son, or at
                            least, immediately after. he will arrive too late to have any influency upon the success of next campaign if our ministry
                            has not resolved beforehand to send us powerfull reinforcements.
                        I join here for the Perusal of your Excellency a copy of a letter that I have received from the Governor of
                            St Domingo, your Excellency will see that the affairs in that country are not more shining at this present moment than
                            ours are. There are various reports about the loss of the British in Gardner’s bay The Chevalier Destouches has sent an
                            officer to Plumb island, he is very expert and capable to decide him about the measures that he is to follow in
                            consequence of that event. Mr De Corecy, Commissary at war, well known to your Excellency has an asthma that torments him
                            very much, he had strongly sollicited my leave to return to France with Mr Laurens, upon the frigate the Alliance. The State of his health and the speedy departure of the Frigate does not give me time
                            to wait for the return of the Expresses, for your agreement to it, But I hope your Excellency will approve my having given
                            him Leave; he will be very usefull to Mr Laurens, at his first appearance and launching out in that country. I am with
                            respect, and great personal attachment Sir, Your Excellency’s Most humble most obedient Servant.

                            le cte de Rochambeau

                            The Count de St Memes, Colonel of the Soissonnois regiment setts off to morrow for head quarters to
                                wait on your Excellency and thence to go to Philadelphy, if your Excellency gives him Leave.

                     Enclosure

                                at the Cape, Jany 6th 1781.

                            I received, Sir, on the 2d inst. the letter that you wrote me, of the 10th December last. I beg you will
                                accept my sincere thanks for the news you give me about your position & that of the United States. It is to be
                                hoped they’ll send you reinforcements from Europe, that you may next campaign assure the Independence of New-England,
                                that is the only way to procure peace, an event that is very desirable for our Colonies.
                            The newest intelligence from Europe and from France, is of the end of October, we learn by it, that Count
                                d’Estaing has taken the command of the Combined armies of Cadiz and that Mr de Castries had succeeded to Mr DeSartine
                                in the department of the navy. We have not yet had Dispatches from that minister. The letters from Mr DeBouillé at the
                                Windward islands are of the 20th Xber, he writes me that the only sea forces that he has, are the 4. men of war that Mr
                                De Monteil sent him and that luckily they had arrived in time to hinder the enemy from intercepting a convoy that had
                                just arrived at the Windw. islands. Admiral Rodney was at St Lucia with thirteen or fourteen men
                                of War and he expected eight more from Europa with Troops, so that it is much to be feared that Some islands will be
                                taken from Mr De Bouillé, unless they send him reinforcements without loss of time. We are here without any navy, the
                                only man of war that remains is blocked up at St Louis by two men of war and two frigates, as Mr De Monteil is gone to
                                join Mr De Bonnet who had asked for him, as he did not think himself strong enough to protect a valuable convoy that he
                                expected from Vera-cruz. The last intelligence from Havannah are of the 18th 9ber. you very likely know that the
                                Expedition against Pensacola has not been successfull, as Mr De Solano’s fleet that was to protect it has been
                                dispersed as well as the convoy by the hurricane of the month of October last. Of that Expedition only three men of
                                War and one frigate were returned to the Havannah, on the 18th 9ber. I have &c.


Title: From George Washington to Anthony Wayne, 2 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Wayne, Anthony

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Febry 2nd 1781

                        In mine of the 29th of January I partly answered yours of the 21st—Yours of the 17th had been duly received,
                            and I am since favored with that of the 28th.
                        I am satisfied, that every thing was done on your part to produce the least possible evil from the
                            unfortunate disturbance in your line, and that your influence has had a great share in preventing worse extremities—I felt
                            for your situation. Your anxieties & fatigues of mind, amidst such a scene, I can easily conceive—I thank you
                            sincerely for your exertions.
                        You request to be exempted from the recruiting service, and employed in the field—at present the last is not
                            possible—but ‘till you hear further from me, you need not occupy yourself about the first—I write to General Irvine by this
                            opportunity. With the greatest regard I am Dear Sir Your Most Obedt Servt

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Meshech Weare, 2 February 1781
From: Weare, Meshech
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Hampton falls Feb. 2. 1781

                        I am this day honor’d with the Rect of your favor of 22d Ulto, by Express. The important intelligence it
                            contains is truly Alarming but I hope may be a means of awakening People in general to a thorough Sense of the Absolute
                            necessity of the most Vigerous Exertions for furnishing the Army with proper Supplies, I shall immediately lay your Letter
                            before the Comtee who transact business in the Recess of the Genl Court But am doubtfull whether they have it in their
                            power to forward any great Supplies before the Genl Court is Conven’d which is to meet the second Wednesday in March. I
                            have the honor to be with the highest Respect Yr Exys Most Obt Humle Sert

                            Meshech Weare


Title: General Orders, 3 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To:

                             Saturday February 3d 1781
                            Parole
                            Countersigns

                        Returns of all the men who have not had the small pox to be given in to the Orderly Office by Brigades as
                            soon as possible.
                        The Honorable the Congress have been pleased to make the following Election.
                        In Congress January 17. 1781.
                        Congress proceeded to the Election of a director of the Military Hospital and the ballots being taken.
                        Doctor John Cochran was elected.


Title: To George Washington from Jacob Bayley, 3 February 1781
From: Bayley, Jacob
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Newbury 3rd Febry 1781

                        I have received Amonition and Cloathing agreable to your Excelency orders, have also applied to the State of
                            N. Hampshire for the men they had Leave of Congress to Raise for the Defence of their Frontiers. to be sent (or a Part of
                            them) to Coos, but have no Encoragement that they should be raised, which if they do not we Shall be obliged to rais the
                            men amongst our Selves for the Defence of this Frontier. and am afraid we Shall not be able to rais our Purpotion for the
                            Continental Army, as I think It is Impossiable for us to Rais both, our—purpotion of men from the Grants East of
                            Conecticut River has been more than three Hundred men—which have been Supplied to the Continentall Army Punctually, beside
                            the Militia who has never failed in any Emergency, and I am bold to Say that Private Persons on the grants have done More
                            for the Publick which they have never Receved any Pay for than any other in the other Part of New Hampshr. for which they
                            have no Credit nor have Protection now when they are actually much Exsposed to the Enemy. General Burgoin with his Army
                            would have Returnd to Canada if he had not Proceeded to Albany-- had it not been Prevented by the Exertions of—this People
                            in Conjuntion with the Continentall army, I think it my Duty to Inform your Excelency of our Affairs and that we Shall--
                            Endeavour to Defend our Selves against the Common Enemy both Enternal and External and that we will do Every thing in our
                            Power for the Establishment of the Independance—and Inleargement of the American States, and Beg leave
                            to Subscribe my Self your most Humble Servant

                            Jacob Bayley


Title: To George Washington from Frederick Frelinghuysen, 3 February 1781
From: Frelinghuysen, Frederick
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Pumpton Feby 3d 1781

                        The Commissioners have spent three days in examining into the Claims of the Jersey Soldiers, &
                            contrary to their expectation find the Term of all the Enlistments which have been produced to be during the War. A few however, of the Soldiers have been discharged, on the Evidence of the Officers who
                            inlisted them, & other concurrent Proofs of their having only engaged for  threeYears.
                        The absence of so many Officers, & the detached state of the Brigade has obliged us to adjourn untill
                            the 20th of February when we propose to hear such of them, as shall not have obtained Satisfaction from Seeing their
                            enlistments in the hands of their officers; And from their being now fully convinced that nothing, but the most
                            unequivocal Evidence in their Favour, will authorize us to discharge, I concieve we shall be troubled with few more
                            Applications.
                        The Conduct observed towards the Pensylvania Line proves very injurious to us, in our attempt to quiet the
                            Minds of our Soldiers; They entertained the highest expectations that where no Enlistments would be produced, their own
                            Oaths would be taken as Evidence—their disappointment very much chagrines them, & no pains are spared by the
                            disaffected Inhabitants to keep alive their discontent. The Whigs of Jersey are highly pleased with the method taken to
                            subdue the Jersey Mutineers, & from the Conduct of the Militia when the Pensylvanians revolted, and when the
                            Jersey line arrived at Chatham, I am confident they will, whenever required, cheerfully step forth to quell such dangerous
                            Insurrections. I am Sir Your Excellency’s most obedient Servant

                            Frederick Frelinghuysen


Title: From George Washington to John Greaton, 3 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Greaton, John

                            Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Febry 3d 1781

                        I had nearly anticipated the subject of your Letter of the 2nd in mine of the 1st to Major Genl Heath, in
                            which I informed him. I should have no objections to any reasonable indulgences, in extraordinary Cases. but could not
                            undertake to act upon particular applications, as this might Counteract general Arrangements, And that the extension of
                            furloughs beyond the 1st of April, in any instance must depend upon the internal situation of the Regts & number of
                            officers with them.
                        In addition to this, I have only to suggest, that where the circumstances of a Regt will permit an Officer to
                            be absent beyond the first of April—his own feelings, the good of the service, & the necessity of training
                            & forming the new levies for the feild, will certainly induce him to join the Army, at the earliest possible
                            period. I am Sir


Title: To George Washington from Adam Hubley, Jr., 3 February 1781
From: Hubley, Adam, Jr.
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Philadelpa February 3d 1781

                        My feelings only, can appologize, for my troubling your Excellency at this time, I flatter myself, you will
                            not think me guilty of presumption, when I take this opportunity of acquainting your Excellency of the cause of it.
                        After a service of more than five Years which your Excellency, I flatter myself is acquainted with, and
                            during which time, I have every reason to believe my conduct has met with your Excellencys approbation. It has fallen to
                            my lot, in consequence of the late new arrangement (much against my inclination) to retire from the Army.
                        To attempt a discription of my feelings on this occasion, for me—is impossible, I must therefore pass it in
                            silence, and consider it a misfortune.
                        I am concious, so far as my abilities serv’d me, I have acted whilst an Officer in the Army (from a
                            Lieutenant, to that of a Commanr of a regiment) with Sincerity, and faithfulness, Nor can I tax myself with deviating in
                            the least from the principals, upon which I first set out, that of serving my Country, and to gain Honor &
                            Reputation-- in the former I am determin’d to persevere, the latter as I am remoov’d from the field, I
                            shall not have in my power to obtain.
                        If there is no possibility of being again introduc’d in the Army, of which I beg your Excellency to advise
                            me—I have then only one more favour to ask, and that is, if my conduct whilst in the Army has met your Excellencys
                            approbation, I beg some testimony thereof, which I shall not only consider as the highest honor confer’d on me, but the
                            greatest Reward for my services. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect, Your Excellencys most Obt &
                            very hume Servt

                            Adm Hubley Jr

                            I have taken the liberty of inclosing a copy of a Certificate from Genl Wayne to which beg to refer you
                                (excepting the Campaigns, 76 & 79 in Canada & Western frontiers of Penna in both of which I serv’d) I
                                have chiefly serv’d under his immediate command.
                            Should your Excellency think proper to give me an answer, by directing to Governor Reed’s care in
                                Philada, I shall be sure of receiving your favour.


Title: From George Washington to Samuel Huntington, 3 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Huntington, Samuel

                            Sir,
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 3d 81

                        I have on different occasions done myself the honor to represent to Congress the inconveniences arising from
                            the want of a proper gradation of punishments in our military code; but as no determination has been communicated to me, I
                            conclude a multiplicity of business may have diverted their attention from the object. As I am convinced a great part of
                            the vices of our discipline springs from this source, I take the liberty again to renew the subject. The highest corporal
                            punishment we are allowed to give is an hundred lashes; between that and death there are no degrees. Instances dayly
                            occurring of offences for which the former is intirely inadequate—Courts Martial to preserve some proportion between the
                            crime and the punishment are obliged to pronounce sentence of death. Capital sentences on this account become more
                            frequent in our service than in any other, so frequent as to render their execution in most cases inexpedient; and it
                            happens from this, that greater offences often escape punishment while lesser are commonly punished, which cannot but
                            operate as an encouragement to the commission of the former.
                        The inconveniences of this defect are obvious: Congress are sensible of the necessity of punishment in an
                            army—of the justice and policy of a due proportion between the crime and the penalty, and of course, of the necessity of
                            proper degrees in the latter—I shall therefore content myself with observing, that it appears to me indispensable, there
                            should be an extension of the present corporal punishment; and also that it would be useful to authorise Courts Martial to
                            sentence delinquents to labor at public works—perhaps even for some crimes, particularly desertion, to transfer them from
                            the land to the sea service, where they have less opportunity to indulge their inconstancy. A variety in punishments is of
                            utility as well as a proportion.
                        The number of lashes may either be indefinite left to the discretion of the Court to fix, or limited to a
                            larger number; in this case, I would recommend five hundred.
                        There is one evil however, which I shall particularize, resulting from the imperfection of our regulations in
                            this respect: It is the increase of arbitrary punishments. Officers finding discipline cannot be maintained by a regular
                            course of proceeding are tempted to use their own discretion, which sometimes occasions excesses, to correct which the
                            interests of discipline will not permit much rigor. Prompt, and therefore arbitrary, punishments are not to be avoided in
                            an army; but the necessity for them will be more or less, in proportion as the military laws have more or less rigor.
                        There is another thing in our articles of war, which I beg leave to suggest to Congress the propriety of
                            altering, it is the 2d article of the 4th section, allowing commanding officers of corps to furlough their soldiers. This
                            privilege if suffered to operate would often deprive the army of more men than it could spare; it has been attended with
                            abuses—it is disagreeable for a general order to restrain the exercise of a privilege granted by authority of Congress. To
                            prevent uneasiness and discussion, it were to be wished Congress would think proper to repeal this article, and vest the
                            power of designating the mode of granting furloughs in the Commander in Chief, or Commanding Officer of a separate army.
                            It would perhaps be useful to prescribe a printed form, for which purpose I have taken the liberty to inclose one. This
                            would hinder counterfeits and impositions. On the same principle I include the form of a discharge. It would in my opinion
                            be a good regulation, that a soldier returning home, either on furlough or discharge who did not in ten days after his
                            return produce to the nearest Magistrate his printed certificate, should be apprehended by the Magistrate as a deserter, and
                            through the governor reported to the general officer commanding in the state or department. This regulation published in
                            the army and in the several states would have a tendency to discourage desertion. Something of this kind has been lately
                            adopted in Virginia and I doubt not will have a good effect; it were to be wished its utility could become general. I have
                            the honor to be With perfect respect & esteem Yr Excellcys Most Obed. Servant

                            Go: Washington

                            P.S. I have just received the agreeable account contained in a letter from the Count De Rochambeau of which the enclosed is a copy. If Congress approve I wish the Board of war may be directed to have a number of printed copies made of
                                the furloughs & passes.


Title: From George Washington to William Irvine, 3 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: Irvine, William

                            Dear Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 3d 81

                        I have received your letter of the 17th—The affair of your line has had a train of disagreeable
                            circumstances; but we can now only regret what we cannot remedy; and endeavour as soon and as far as possible to repair
                            the evil.
                        I have written to General S. Clair to undertake the superintendence of the recruiting service—I am persuaded
                            you will give him all the aid in your power. I am with great regard Sir Yr most Obedt ser.

                            Go: Washington


Title: To George Washington from Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, 3 February 1781
From: Rochambeau, Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de
To: Washington, George

                            Sir
                            Newport February 3d 1781.

                        I send to your Excellency a copy of the report of the naval officer who has seen and constated at Plumb
                            island the real state of the English fleet. I am going this moment a board of the Admiral to know whether he intends going
                            out with all his ships, or at least send a detachment of some of them to Chesapeakbay. It is generally looked on as
                            dangerous to go and attack them in the bay, whose entry is much straiter than it is marked in the Maps. But I think that
                            two men of War and two frigates will destroy all the expedition of Arnold’s in Chesapeak bay, and that in this moment of
                            truce, we have a fair chance for the accomplishing of that plan. I join a copy of a letter which I received from Mr De St
                            Simons, commanding at the Cape the two Regiments that were to act conjointly with the Spaniards. The Count de Custine has
                            given me your Excellency’s letter of the 24th last. I am very sorry of all the trouble which your Excellency experiences
                            at these moments of Unquietness and dissatisfaction which these unhappy circumstances occasion among the Troops, and I
                            very earnestly desire that after they are becalmed, your Excellency may have tranquility enough to come and see us here. I
                            am with respect and great personal attachment Sir Your Excellencys Most obedient humble Servant

                            le cte de rochambeau

                     Enclosure

                                At the Cape, 7. Jany 1781.

                            I found here, Sir, at my arrival, the Letter which you have favored me with from Newport of the 27th
                                7ber. I directly wrote you to express my gratitude for the Friendship and concern you bear to me; I mentioned the fear
                                I was in, Lest we should not undertake any thing in these seas. Mr De Navia’s army has very much
                                suffered by sickness since his arrival at Cuba. he has lost more than one third of his men, and my corps whose
                                destination is to serve with them, has lost one fourth. Besides, it is divided, there is one half here, and the other
                                at San Domingo. That division had engaged me to go to the Havannah to try to obtain from the Spanish General that it
                                might be reunited, and to have Leave from him to imbark upon the ships of the Chevalier de Monteil, in expectation of
                                his making some enterprise. I would have travelled the Seas, and I expected to attack Providence, thence I would have
                                gone to San Augustin &ca. Before hand I had well taken my measures with the Admiral, and we were perfectly
                                united. But the Spanish General has refused me: I could not have been better received, and treated with more
                                distinction nor heartiness, than I have been at Havannah, not only by the Generals, But yet all the inhabitants. that
                                Colony looks much more considerable than any of ours, all the Proprietors abide in it, so that the Town has the air of
                                a Town of Europe, the Society numerous, and it has an opulent Look. if Spain extended her Trade Cuba would grow
                                immensely rich in a very short time. But the prohibitory Laws are so strong, the punishments so rigorous, that they
                                discourage the Industry. However there is more spirit in that Colony than in the others. Very Likely, the Vicinity of
                                the French and English, between whom it is Situated, is the reason and the Cause of it. I Lately received Letters
                                thence, which mentioned the rentry of Solano, who had cruised for 16. Days at the Rendezvous assigned for the
                                Expedition of Pensacola, and he had seen nothing. They are in fear for the Dragoon, a 64. two Cutter and 50.
                                Transports with Troops, provisions & Munitions. They very Likely have been pushed down the Gulf of Mexico by
                                the Hurricane. There is the effect of that expedition that had been concerned and given to Mr De Galves Gouvernor of
                                Louisiana, nephew of the Minister for the Indian department, who had done it on purpose that he might have a reason to
                                make him Lieutenant General. he justifies perfectly well the concern that his uncle takes for him, he is much estemed
                                by the Spaniards, and beloved by the Frenchmen of Louisiana whom he treats exceeding well, and he is full of Ardor
                                and good will. On new year’s day a Vessel arrived here, belonging to the Empress Queen, coming from Martinico, it brought
                                some Letters that announce a convoy for this place, he arrived at Martinico where they are a making considerable
                                preparations to receive a great number of Troops, among which they talk of the Regiments of Normandy, Neustrie,
                                Auvergne and Rouerque, it is your Second division. I desire much to have an order to join it, I would be very glad to
                                be under your orders, and I would willingly leave the command in chief that I have here. I believe your campaign will
                                be warmer than ours. This is the Season to act in these climates and we Lose it, I am very sorry of it, it is hard to
                                be in a country so exceeding destructive of men, and to do nothing in the military way.


Title: From George Washington to Arthur St. Clair, 3 February 1781
From: Washington, George
To: St. Clair, Arthur

                            Dr Sir
                            Head Quarters New Windsor Feby 3d 81

                        The unexpected reduction of the Pensylvania line from the late unfortunate affair adds to the necessity of
                            the greatest attention to improve the measures adopted for recruiting it. I do not know precisely what these are; but I am
                            informed in general that money is raising for the purpose, and that the recruiting service goes on with success. In order
                            to have it conducted with regularity and activity, I am to request you will undertake to superintend it, and will make your
                            arrangements with the state accordingly. Inclosed you will find a copy of the instructions of the recruiting officers of
                            the other parts of the army, which will also be proper for the government of those of your state.
                        We have found from experience that by some means or other numbers of men are lost between the place of
                            inlistment and the place of rendezvous. To prevent this as far as possible will be worthy your particular attention.
                        I have permitted General Wayne to retire for a while—General Irvine will immediately assist you in the
                            execution of this business.
                        It seems a great part of the soldiers of your line have fraudulently procured a discharge by the precipitate
                            admission of their oaths, before the papers relative to their inlistments could be produced. In right, this cannot exempt
                            them from their engagements, and after what has happened if it were thought expedient to compel the return of such as
                            being explicitly engaged for the war have thus perjured themselves, I should have no doubt of its justice; and would  take the most effectual and convenient measures to notify them, that if they did not immediately return to their duty,
                            they should be considered and treated as deserters—I percieve there are objections to the measure, and unacquainted as I
                            am with all circumstances, I cannot competently judge of its propriety—I therefore shall be obliged to you for your
                            opinion.
                        Let me hear from time to time of your arrangements and progress. I am with great esteem & regard Dr Sir Yr most Obed. Servt